The government has announced that first aid and CPR training will become compulsory in schools across England and Wales from 2020. 

Secondary school pupils will learn first aid and how to administer lifesaving CPR while in primary schools younger kids will learn basic first aid, as well as how to support the health and wellbeing of others. 

The move is being widely welcomed by parents, many of whom are already preparing their little ones – and not so little ones – to head off into the care of those who dedicate themselves to shaping young lives.  

It can be an emotional time but parents appreciate the commitment, patience and dedication it takes to work with children of all ages and abilities. 

And that’s why there is such a wide variety of roles available across the UK.  

Classroom Assistant 

Also known as a TA (teaching assistant), this is a role that supports learning. It can be in schools or nurseries and has the potential to develop into a specialised career – such as helping children with unique learning needs. 

Assistants can work with a whole class or provide one-to-one help to pupils who need more attention due to learning or behavioural problems.  

Previous experience working with children is a benefit to securing a job but induction training will be given as well as ongoing courses to support your development. 

PE Teacher 

Encouraging children to enjoy physical activity is a crucial role today, when so many kids exercise their fingers on games controllers, only stopping to pick up a fizzy drink or more sweets.  

Physical Education teachers need to teach a wide range of activities. 

A degree is needed in a sports-based subject then a post-graduate teaching qualification – there are courses at many universities across the UK.  

As you’d expect in the sporting world, it’s a competitive area and successful applicants must show their dedication to getting the nation’s children fit and healthy, perhaps through youth work or volunteering. 

Lecturer 

Further Education (FE) is about helping people of all ages achieve their potential. FE lecturers tend to be involved in vocational teaching, preparing students for work in subjects from catering to beauty therapy and plumbing, to web design.  

That’s where industry experience can be transferred into a new academic career. 

FE colleges also have lecturers who teach qualifications normally taken at school. They can also help with basic skills in literary and numeracy. 

You can become an FE teacher through industry experience but training will mean a greater chance of securing a job and push you up the salary scale. Training towards a teaching qualification can usually be done alongside a current job. 

Residential Childcare Officer 

Working as a residential childcare officer can be the one of most challenging careers, but also the most rewarding. As you’ll see from the number of roles online, there are opportunities right across the UK. 

Dealing with young minds that may have been traumatised by events or who have learning difficulties or health problems requires a calm approach that puts the child’s wellbeing at the centre of everything. 

Working in another childcare role can prepare you for this job but there are specialised courses open to students of all ages and backgrounds. 

If you’d like to learn more about working in Education, why not take a look at some of the vacancies currently available online?