Nursery World - Celebrating 100 years: J is for job roles

Although no longer referred to as ‘nursery nurses’, workers in the early years continue to find that their role is undervalued by many, explains Annette Rawstrone

Nursery World asks whether 'a modern mother' should 'feel guilty' on 17 January 1974

Mother's help, nurserymaid, nannie, nursery nurse, educator, practitioner, teacher, childminder… professionals working with babies and young children have gone through significant transformations in job role during the past century, evolving in response to social, economic and legislative changes.

Nursery World has adapted to reflect those changes – from proudly declaring on the cover of its first issue in 1925 that it was for ‘mothers and nurses’ to a shift in the 1980s to concentrate on professional workers. We continue to champion all those working in the early years.

Job roles have shifted from traditional domestic positions to structured professional careers, with changing job titles reflecting advancements in training, policy and public perception. How to address professionals working in early years continues to be debated.

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