Natasha, childcare provider - SR1 Sunderland

I have a level 3 Childcare Learning and Development Diploma at Sunderland College where I achieved triple grade Distinction (the highest grade possible on this course). I feel I am suitable for this job as I have relevant experience working in a number of childcare setting; Working with children ages ranging from 0-8 years, from this I have realised that I enjoy working with the babies and the younger children however I do still enjoy working with the older children. My most recent experience is at Footsteps Daycare where I gained a year worth of volunteer as part of my college course and some paid work in the summer of 2013. I can become very familiar with the daily routine and feel I will be able to settle in to new settings with ease such as home settings or within a nursery. I am able to develop positive working relationships with children and parents very easily from this I can work very well individually. My other experiences include working with a nursery and year 1 class on placement at academy 360. I received very good feedback and enjoyed the day-to-day tasks such as preparing, taking part and teaching a small group of children. I have learned to be responsible and how to be patient with children as they all have different learning abilities. Also from my placements I have worked in settings for two years for two days a week and all together have over 800 hours. I have paid work with a supply agency EYPS working in a variety of childcare settings.
In these experiences I have developed a number of skills such as communication and organisation. I feel my communication skills have developed a great deal as I feel more confident and competent in a childcare setting. I have developed my organisation skills while being at college and in placements. I feel I have been able to develop my organisation skills further by being able to handle the work load. I have a good understanding of numeracy and literacy as I have a C grade in both maths and 2 in English, at GCSE. From college I have sound knowledge of the EYFS including its recent updates in September 2012. While working in different placements I have experienced children with Special Educational Needs such as hearing impairment, cerebral palsy, autism and allergies. From this I have developed the ability to carry out supporting strategies for the identified needs of the children. I also have experience with a child disclosing to me. I was fully aware of the safeguarding procedure and therefore acted accordingly and suitably and told the safeguarding member of staff to which she already knew.
From my placements I have experience developing effective working relationships with parents and other professionals such as the professionals who come in to assess the children with SEN. By working within childcare settings I have knowledge of the welfare requirements and experience of positive behaviour management and nurturing strategies such as positive reinforcement and time outs.
As part of my college course I have carried out over 20 observations and activities. From this I have gained good understanding and knowledge of child development. I have experienced that children learn at different rates and abilities. I know that any activities in which I may plan or contribute to planning need to be age and stage appropriate. I understand that from an activity or daily routine each child should be given equal opportunities. If an activity needs to be changed or adapted to allow, for example, a child who is at a disadvantage to another child whether it be their disability, race or religion then it should be changed or that child to be given a similar activity. I understand that within activities there should be sufficient milestones in which the children can reach. I am very familiar with the EYFS and the National Curriculum; I am up to date with the changes to the EYFS. From my observations, activities and college work I have good knowledge and understanding of ICT. I am aware of the legislation within childcare settings and that the policies and procedures are built on the framework of the legislation for example the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 is the legislation and the health and safety policy of the setting is built on the framework of this.
I feel I am a suitable match for this job as I use my own initiative and already have good, positive feedback from my placements, college and work. In my placement I am comfortable and competent to work as part of the team. I am looking forward to my continuous professional development and happy to undertake further training as required by the setting. I am very flexible to work all year round and available straight away.