Talking recently to a group of childcare students, I was disappointed in my own reaction when one recalled how she had been questioned about her career choice.
This disappointment stemmed from that fact that the conversation brought so little reaction from me.
I wasn't shocked by what I was hearing because I had heard it before. I've even worked with people who asked me if their son or daughter would ‘be alright’, as they had chosen to study early years.
These stories highlight the power of discourse that all too often creates a veil of doubt and deters future interest in working in the sector. I fear the public discourse of a discontented workforce may only be contributing to this.
I choose my words carefully as I absolutely appreciate the need to lead and advocate for change and to stand up to unnecessary burdens. However, public perception is perhaps not fully appreciative of this internal wisdom. We'd be wise to ensure that embarking on an early years career remains appealing, attractive and rewarding.
Should we ditch the policy-driven impactful campaign? Absolutely not. Do we need to counter this with positive, inspirational and aspirational experiences of the sector by the sector? Absolutely yes.
There is still a social stigma that discourages male educators from entering the industry due to peer pressure and the negative stereotype that it is reserved for women. How are we still in this situation?
Negative preconceptions about the sector have a substantial impact on its ability to attract and retain experts, while also restricting its recognition as a critical discipline. Common misconceptions about early years employment, such as perceiving it as ‘babysitting’ rather than a skilled profession, diminish its significance and dissuade brilliant people from pursuing it.
Highlighting the benefits of the early years is critical to attracting skilled workers and increasing recognition. But low pay, limited career progression and undervaluation of early years educators reinforces stereotypes, contributing to workforce shortages.
Ultimately, these negative perceptions hinder the sector's growth and its critical role.
Whether you have worked in the early years for 30 years or 30 minutes, we all have a responsibility to safeguard its future. It is essential we work together to strengthen the sector and build professional pride.
NCFE's Education and Early Years Career Toolkit: https://bit.ly/4iANOBN
