Do I really need a qualification to work in a nursery?
- Oct 1
- 2 min read
Working in a nursery often looks effortless from the outside — caring for children, supporting their learning, keeping things running smoothly. But behind every confident practitioner is knowledge, training, and a qualification that ensures they can do the job to a professional standard.
So, do you really need a qualification to work in a nursery? In the UAE, the answer is yes — and here’s why.
1. Consistency and Standards
A qualification provides a shared foundation of knowledge. It ensures that every practitioner understands child development, safeguarding, and best practice. This creates consistency across nurseries, so no matter where a child is enrolled, they receive the same high-quality care.
2. From Experience to Professional Practice
Many people enter early years because they love working with children. But love and experience aren’t enough when faced with the realities of behaviour management, curriculum planning, and supporting diverse needs. A CACHE qualification bridges the gap between passion and practice, equipping practitioners with tools they can apply straight away.
3. Career Growth and Leadership
Without qualifications, opportunities are limited. With them, doors open: to leadership roles, higher pay, and recognition as a professional in your field. The CACHE Level 2, 3, and beyond aren’t just stepping stones — they are the path to long-term success in early years.
At QuEST, we see the difference every day. Practitioners enter our programmes nervous and unsure. They leave with knowledge, confidence, and a qualification that changes how they see themselves — and how others see them too.
So yes, you do need a qualification to work in a nursery.
But more importantly, you deserve one. Because the children in your care deserve trained, knowledgeable practitioners — and because your career deserves to grow.
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