Starting a new job in early years should feel exciting. After months of study, training and hands-on work, you’re finally ready to step fully into the world of childcare and begin making a meaningful difference to young children and their families. It’s the moment you’ve been working towards – the chance to put your knowledge into practice, to build relationships and to grow as a professional.

But for many newly qualified practitioners, the reality can feel different. Instead of excitement, you might be met with waves of nerves: worries about getting things right, doubts about your abilities, or the pressure of joining an established team. These feelings are far more common than you might think, and they don’t mean you’re not ready. In fact, they’re often a sign that you care deeply about doing your job well.

Across the UK, from busy London nurseries to small community settings in rural areas, new practitioners are taking their first steps into the early years sector. They are exploring a wide range of childcare jobs, ,from nursery-based positions to part-time opportunities, and many are feeling exactly the same mix of excitement and nerves. Whether you’re joining as a nursery assistant, training to become a room leader, or hoping to progress into a deputy manager or nursery manager role one day, those first few weeks can feel overwhelming.

If you’re about to start your first role in an early years setting and are feeling a little anxious, you’re not alone. And more importantly, those nerves don’t mean you’re not the right person for the job.

This blog explores why those first‑job nerves show up, how to recognise them, and most importantly, how to turn them into genuine confidence as you grow in your role.

A good employer makes all the difference

Every member of nursery staff deserves to feel supported, valued, and enjoy their role, and this includes new starters. One of the biggest factors in whether a new candidate will enjoy and stay in their role is the level of support they receive from their employer.

In the best settings, being newly qualified is seen as an exciting opportunity, not a weakness.

A dedicated employer will provide:

• A structured induction programme
• Access to training and benefits
• A friendly and committed team
• Mentoring from experienced nursery practitioners, room leaders and deputy managers
• Guidance to help you achieve your potential

At Grandir UK, we believe in helping every person who joins us feel valued, confident and supported from the moment they start. It’s not just the experience of the children that attend the nursery which matters; yours does too.

Confidence grows faster than you think

Although nerves might be high at first, most people are surprised by how quickly they settle into their childcare job. Everything feels new in the beginning, but by the end of your first year, you’ll look back and realise just how far you’ve come.

You’ll begin to:

• Understand daily routines
• Create genuine and fulfilling relationships with each child and parent
• Assist with planning and activities
• Use your developing skills to nurture young minds

Tips for thriving in your first year, not just surviving

If you’re starting your early years career, whether in a nursery, early years centre or another childcare setting, these simple tips can help you settle in, find your feet and thrive:

1. Ask questions

Remember, no one becomes a great practitioner overnight, they get there by asking for help when they need it.

2. Use the support around you

Your team, colleagues and leaders are there to help you succeed.

3. Take advantage of training

Learning never stops in childcare; use every opportunity to grow.

4. Be patient with yourself

It takes time to build confidence and experience.

5. Celebrate small wins

Helping a child settle, running your first activity, or getting a smile from a parent are all big achievements that deserve to be celebrated.

It’s more than just a job

A career in early years is far more than a simple job. It’s an opportunity to make a real difference. Whether you dream of becoming a room leader, a deputy manager, or even managing your own site one day, every journey starts with that very first step.

Early years professionals across the UK are committed to giving children the best possible start, and that begins with people like you.

Start your career with Grandir UK

If you’re currently on the search for rewarding childcare jobs, Grandir UK is always looking for passionate, dedicated individuals to join our nurseries.

We offer:

• Competitive salary packages
• Flexible hours, with temporary and permanent roles
• Clear career progression
• Excellent staff benefits, including well-being days and bank holidays off
• Ongoing learning and development
• A warm, welcoming team culture

Whether you’re looking for full-time, part-time, or the perfect flexible role that fits around your life, we can help you find a position where you can truly thrive.

Ready to begin?

If you’re newly qualified and ready to start your journey in early years, we’d love to hear from you.

Explore our current flexible career opportunities and take the next step toward a meaningful, rewarding career in childcare. Because every confident practitioner started out exactly where you are now, at the beginning.