How do I use qualifications to build my career?
The wide number of different qualifications available means that you can move between qualifications in a variety of ways. Most people will want to start with an introductory level qualification and then move on to obtain higher-level qualifications. Some people will want to stick to one specific subject, playwork for example. Other people may want to try out different areas, for example obtain playwork qualifications and then early years care and education qualifications. You could start by studying for qualifications full-time within a college of further education. However, once you progress and get a job, you may prefer to pursue qualifications while you are at work. This is one of the great advantages of working in this sector: you can build your career according to your preferences and circumstances. There is no such thing as a 'set career path'. If you start down one particular route, this does not mean you cannot change direction if your interests and circumstances change.
The diagram shows the main qualifications and possible progression paths between them. As explained above, these will not be the only paths available. However, the diagram shows the more usual progression routes that are followed.
I've got a qualification that's not listed here: can I use it to progress?
This booklet only lists current, common, nationally accredited qualifications. Other qualifications exist and some workers may hold older qualifications that have been phased out. This doesn't mean that you have to start again, simply that a particular award has been overtaken by more recent ones. If you hold a qualification that is not listed and are concerned about its acceptability, then you should contact your local careers service for advice. You may be asked to demonstrate that the qualification you hold is equivalent to a qualification listed in this booklet.
I did my training outside Scotland: can I use my qualifications?
Many qualifications obtained in the rest of the British Isles will be accepted in Scotland. If you want further information you should contact your local careers service. If you have obtained qualifications from outside the British Isles you may have to demonstrate that your qualifications are suitable for working with children. Again, you should contact your local careers service for further advice.
How do I move on to degree level studies in early education, childcare and playwork?
Strathclyde University, Northern College and Paisley University offer relevant BA degree courses in Childhood Studies. They are part_time degree courses aimed at adults working with young children. If you have qualifications such as the SVQ4 in Early Years Care and Education, SVQ 4 in Playwork (once they are introduced), a PDA Certification in Childcare and Education, an HNC in Childcare and Education, or Highers, you are eligible to apply for entry on to one of these courses. Some of the qualifications mentioned may provide you with exemption from the initial parts of the degree programme. If you are interested in finding out more about these courses you should contact Strathclyde University, Northern College, Paisley University or your local careers service.
What about access to other professions, including teaching and social work?
Once you have had some experience of working with young children, you may want to move into related fields - for example, into working with adolescents or with children in residential centres, or into community education or community development more generally. You may also want to move into related professions such as social work, community work or teaching. The qualifications you will have gained in working with young children will provide a useful foundation for a move into related occupations, but you will usually have to obtain additional qualifications. For example, to become a teacher you will need a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) or Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), and to become a social worker you will need a Diploma in Social Work (DipSW). If you are interested in related career opportunities you should speak to your local careers service.