Congratulations on being offered a job that you have worked so hard to get at a nursery, preschool or any other Early Years setting. The first day can be stressful as well as nerve racking and here are a few tips to help you.
Understand what is required of you.
When you start a new job it is important to be absolutely clear what the childcare setting is requiring of you in your role. By doing this there can be no misunderstandings which could result in upset and frustrations. If you have any doubts you will need to speak to management who will let you know.
Are there any goals that you need to reach?
In childcare there are plenty of opportunities for progression. You can start as an unqualified and study for a Level 2/3 and within a year to 18 months you can become qualified. When studying you will be given a time frame in order to complete the qualification and it is important that you need to be open and honest if you feel that you may struggle. Moreover in a probation period you will be set goals that you will need to reach. Again if you feel that these are unobtainable for whatever reason, that you are struggling please speak to someone so that you may get the help and support in order for you to succeed.
Make yourself noticed in a positive way.
To be respected and noticed in your new job you will need to make yourself indispensable. To do this always be on time, do not make trouble at work by making the Manager’s job extra hard sorting out conflicts that you may inadvertently have caused, build great working relationships within the team that you are in as well as in the whole setting, minimise taking of sickness, be honest and hardworking.
No matter how much you prepare you will always be nervous as well as excited. Do not let that affect and ruin your first day at work.
Good luck on your first day and remember it is a start of a great journey.