Have you ever thought about a career in childcare, but didn't know where to start?  If the answer is yes then a Childcare Taster Session would be a good starting point. 

These free, informal sessions will enable you to meet people already working in childcare, early years or playwork who will give you an insight into what it's really like. You will be given information about available training opportunities, the different jobs in childcare and the qualifications required to do those jobs. 

If you would like to find out more about when and where the Childcare Taster Sessions are taking place, call the Families Information Service (FIS) on 0800 587 8042.  For information about the different types of jobs in the different types of childcare settings see Careers in Childcare in Related Downloads.  Please Note: There will be no Childcare Taster Sessions run before May 2013.

Alternatively, you might want to consider working as a Childminder in your own home so you could combine looking after your own child(ren) with that of others.  If you would like to know how to become a registered childminder call the FIS to discuss this option or complete the Becoming a Childminder Form (see Related Links) and we will send you an information pack detailing the steps you need to take.  After 6 weeks we will contact you to offer support unless you let us know you do not wish to proceed.

If you are interested in looking for a different type and more challenging caring role there are opportunities to become an adoptive parent or a foster carer because Wakefield has a wide range of children from different backgrounds needing a new family. 

Adoption - there are a number of children in Wakefield waiting for adoption, so if you think you can provide a secure, loving home to a child for life call the Wakefield Adoption Services on 01924 302160 to discuss how to apply to become an adoptive parent.

Fostering - there are different types of fostering, short-term, long-term, permanent, respite, parent and child placements, and Connect Care.  To find out more about becoming a foster carer see the link for the Fostering in Wakefield website.

Volunteer Mentor / Befriender at the Barnardo's 'Get Started' Service, Wakefield

The 'Get Started' Inclusion Team are looking for volunteers to help disabled children and young people to be included into mainstream leisure activities, such as brownies, drama groups, youth clubs etc.  Volunteers would be expected to commit to one or two sessions per week over at least 3 months, but the hours are flexible.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or would like further information then call Christine Ashworth on 01924 239250.