Babysitting recruitment agency listing

Informal babysitters may be ten-a-penny in the form of teenagers looking for some easy money, but parents are increasingly concerned with safety for their children. Although not always necessary for employment, qualifications in childcare can help candidates to secure work.

Qualifications and entry requirements

There are several qualifications which are relevant to child care and babysitting, most available through further education providers. They range from a Diploma in Childcare and Education, to the BTEC in Child Studies and NVQs at all levels. For those people with experience in childcare, the Advanced Diploma in Childcare and Education is available from some providers, acting as a very high level qualification in the area.

Key skills and wages

Most courses include paediatric first aid, health and hygiene, and training in the physical, social, educational and emotional needs of children between the ages of 0-7 years. Babysitters may be asked to cook for children, assist with bathing and oversee personal hygiene and change nappies, as well as providing ideas for entertainment and activities.

Both recruitment agencies and employers expect professional babysitters to be compassionate, caring people, with good practical abilities and an interest in the development of young children.

Wages tend to fall between £8-£10 per hour, however they can be negotiable if the hours are many or the qualifications of the candidate are high level.