Being a volunteer!
By Lara Hudson
The early years qualifications offered by EYES and QuEST require an individual to complete a pre-requisite
number of placement hours. This is an essential part of the course, as it allows an individual to build up their
knowledge, skills, confidence and competency working across age ranges. These hours can be built up, either
whilst working in a setting or indeed through volunteering.
But where do you start in finding a volunteer placement?
We always suggest that you find a setting that is convenient to attend, to ensure that you are a reliable and
regular volunteer. Perhaps look at the settings closest to your home or close to where your children attend
school. We will also be advertising volunteering opportunities on the noticeboard in the EYES and Quest
offices – so remember to check these too! Identify the type of setting that you wish to work in – are you
looking for EYFS, Montessori, a nursery that is purpose built, a large or small nursery. Throughout the duration
of your course you may wish to experience more than one setting. This allows you to experience a variety of
different practices, settings and perhaps even curriculums!
Once you have shortlisted several settings that you might like to volunteer in, the next step is to apply. It is
important that you do this in a professional manner. We always suggest that you conduct your research, learn
a little about the settings and identify the name of the setting manager. Initially make contact with the
manger by email, remembering to address them correctly - Mrs/Miss/Ms - writing in a formal manager. It is
often good to request a meeting at this point. This will allow you to discuss, face to face with the manager, the
role of the volunteer in their setting and the expectation of the manager. Before going to meet with the
manager, put together a list of questions that you would like to ask them. This might include timings, hours,
dress code, policies and procedures and age groups that you could work with.
When you are invited to meet the Nursery Manager/Director, remember to treat this as an interview. Wear
suitable and respectful clothing and appropriate shoes. Be mindful of the length of your sleeves, the neckline
of your top and length of your skirt. Footwear should ideally be closed and appropriate for working with
children – we suggest flat, comfortable shoes. When going to meet the Nursery Manager/ Director, you need
to arrive in a timely manner – it is advisable that you arrive 10-15 minutes before your appointment time. This
demonstrates that you have good time keeping skills. Ensure that you are carrying a copy of your CV with you
and ideally get a letter from EYES/Quest confirming that you are registered for your CACHE course. Be ready to
provide references, if required.
Remember that it is as important to listen as it is to talk. Ensure that you demonstrate ‘active listening skills’.
Make sure that you ask and answer questions and, most importantly, SMILE!