Do You Really Need a Qualification to Work in a Nursery?

If you love working with children, early years education can be one of the most rewarding careers — but it’s also one that requires knowledge, skill, and understanding. That’s why one of the most common questions we get at QuEST is: “Do I really need a qualification to work in a nursery?”

Understanding Why Qualifications Matter

While passion and experience are wonderful starting points, formal training helps you understand why children behave, learn, and grow the way they do. It gives you the theory behind the practice — so you can make decisions that are safe, developmentally appropriate, and backed by evidence.

“Experience gives you confidence, but qualifications give you clarity.”

At QuEST, we see that clarity transforms how practitioners approach their work. A CACHE qualification helps you go beyond instinct, equipping you with the professional insight needed to guide behaviour, plan learning, and support children through every stage of development.

What the Regulations Say

In the UAE, early years staff need recognised qualifications to work in nurseries. CACHE awards, certificates, and diplomas are accepted across the country — from Level 2, which prepares you for assistant roles, to Level 5, which qualifies you for leadership positions.

Having these qualifications isn’t just about meeting standards — it’s about ensuring consistent, high-quality care in every classroom.

How Qualifications Shape Careers

In our latest Eyes on Us podcast, Emma and Sophie explained that qualifications do more than open doors — they change how you’re valued in the sector.

Nurseries increasingly prefer (and often require) qualified staff, which also impacts salaries and promotions.

“It’s not just about the piece of paper. Studying gives you the confidence to lead, to explain your decisions, and to grow in your role.”

CACHE courses are vocational — meaning you’ll learn by doing. You’ll observe, apply, and reflect on your own practice with the guidance of expert tutors. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to move into management, formal study strengthens both your competence and your confidence.

Getting Started

If you’re thinking about a career in early years or planning your next qualification, explore our CACHE programmes:

• Level 1 Award in Caring for Children
  

• Level 2 Diploma for Early Years Practitioners
  

• Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Workforce
  

• Level 5 Diplomas in Leadership and Management

  
  

🎧 You can also listen to Emma and Sophie discuss this topic on our Eyes on Us podcast: https://www.eyes-me.com/post/do-i-really-need-a-qualification-to-work-in-a-nursery