If you are looking to work in the UK but do not have a degree, or maybe you are passionate about caring for children and want to turn that into a career abroad, then this opportunity is for you.
In 2025, childcare assistant jobs in the UK are being offered to trained, compassionate childcare assistants in nurseries, daycare centers, and early years schools across the UK.
If you have experience with kids and a heart for nurturing, walk with me as we explore how you can make this dream a reality.
Why the UK is Offering Childcare Assistant Jobs to Foreigners
As more UK parents return to work and the early education sector expands, there is a serious staffing shortage in nurseries and daycare centers.
Local recruitment efforts are not enough to fill the gap, prompting many providers to sponsor skilled workers from overseas, especially in roles involving early childhood care and development.
This makes 2025 a perfect time for foreign candidates to apply under the UK’s Skilled Worker route, which now includes eligible childcare occupations.
Read also: Skilled Trade Jobs In The UK For Foreigners With Visa Sponsorship (2025)
What Does a Childcare Assistant Do?
- Assist in caring for children aged 0–5 in nurseries or early years settings
- Help with feeding, nappy changes, nap time, and supervised play
- Maintain a clean, safe, and stimulating environment
- Support learning and development through fun, structured activities
- Work alongside qualified Early Years Practitioners or Nursery Nurses
No two days are the same. If you enjoy hands-on work and building meaningful relationships with children, this role is for you.
What is the Average Salary for Childcare Assistant Jobs in the UK in 2025?
- Entry-level: £19,000 to £23,000 per year
- Experienced assistants: £24,000 to £28,000 per year
- Nursery room leaders or senior assistants: Up to £32,000
Sponsored workers under the Skilled Worker Visa must earn at least the minimum salary threshold (currently £20,960), which most full-time childcare roles now meet.
Who are the Childcare Assistant Employers in the UK Offering Visa Sponsorship?
Many UK nurseries and childcare providers are on the government’s official list of licensed sponsors. Some examples include:
- Kido Nurseries (London, Woking, and Manchester)
- Bright Horizons Family Solutions
- Tinies Childcare
- Little Garden Nurseries
- Busy Bees UK
- Snap Childcare
Note: Always verify on the official UK government sponsor list that the employer is actively licensed in 2025.
What are the Eligibility Requirements for Childcare Assistants in the UK?
- Fluent in English (IELTS UKVI or equivalent proof may be required).
- High school education or equivalent (some roles may prefer NVQ Level 2 or 3 in childcare).
- 1+ year of verifiable experience working with children.
- Clean background check and health clearance.
- Willingness to relocate and commit to full-time work.
Training can often be provided on the job, making this a great entry-level path for newcomers to the UK job market.
What is the Visa Process for Childcare Assistant Jobs in the UK?
The most common pathway is through the UK’s Skilled Worker Visa. Here is how it works:
- Secure a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor
- Receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the employer
- Apply online for the Skilled Worker Visa (including biometric checks)
- Pay visa fees and health surcharge
- Receive your visa decision and move to the UK
This visa can lead to permanent residency after 5 years of continuous employment.
Where to Find these Childcare Assistant Jobs in the UK
- Indeed UK
- Gov.uk Skilled Worker Jobs Portal
- Nursery World Jobs
- Nursery company websites
Childcare Assistant Jobs in UK (FAQs)
Do I need a Degree to become a Childcare Assistant in the UK?
Most assistant roles require high school completion and some hands-on experience. Certifications like NVQ Level 2/3 are helpful but not always mandatory.
Can Men Apply for these Roles?
Yes. While the industry is female-dominated, male childcare workers are highly encouraged and valued.
Is this Job Suitable for Career Growth?
Many assistants go on to become qualified nursery nurses or room leaders, or even open their own childcare businesses in the UK.
How Long Does the Visa Process take?
It typically takes 3 to 8 weeks from the time of application, depending on your country and document readiness.
Read also: Cleaning And Janitorial Jobs In Canada With Employer Sponsorship (2025)
Conclusion
If you have been looking for a meaningful, practical route to live and work in the UK, this might just be it.
Childcare assistant jobs are not only in high demand, but they also open doors to long-term settlement, skill-building, and community impact.
And with 2025 offering more visa sponsorship opportunities than ever, now is your time to apply. A career in childcare may start small, but it can change lives, including yours.
