What does a Nursery Assistant do?
Unqualified nursery nurses and nursery assistants support qualified staff in nurseries and early years settings, assisting with childcare, activities and routines. While a Level 3 qualification is not required, there is genuine demand for reliable, experienced nursery support staff — particularly in busy settings that need additional hands.
Register with Humly to access nursery supply shifts that match your experience. While you build towards a qualification, Humly keeps you working in the settings you love.
Key responsibilities
- Support practitioners with daily activities and routines
- Help with meal times, snacks and hygiene routines
- Set up and tidy activity areas and resources
- Supervise children during indoor and outdoor play
- Comfort and settle children, particularly during transitions
- Follow safeguarding and health & safety procedures
Qualifications & requirements
- Experience working with young children
- Enhanced DBS check
- Two professional references
- Right to work in the UK
- Enthusiasm, reliability and a caring nature
Pay rates
Pay rates vary depending on your location, qualifications and experience. Register with Humly to see the rates available for your role and area.
How to get started
Create your profile
Sign up and tell us about your experience, qualifications and preferences.
Download the app
Browse jobs, set your availability and manage bookings from your phone.
Complete compliance
Our team guides you through DBS, references and safeguarding checks.
Start working
Browse nursery assistant roles and book the ones that fit your schedule.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work in a nursery without a Level 3 qualification?+
Yes — you can work as an unqualified nursery assistant. However, you cannot count in the required childcare ratios, so nurseries may have fewer positions available for unqualified staff. Gaining a Level 3 will significantly increase your opportunities.
How do I get a Level 3 Early Years qualification?+
You can study for a Level 3 Early Years qualification through a college, apprenticeship or online provider. Many nursery workers complete their Level 3 while working, often through an apprenticeship funded by their employer.
What kinds of tasks will I do as an unqualified nursery assistant?+
You will assist with daily childcare routines, support activities and learning through play, help with meals and nappy changes, and support the qualified staff team.
Will working as an unqualified nursery assistant help me get a Level 3?+
Yes — the experience you gain working in nurseries is invaluable for your Level 3 studies and will strengthen any future job applications as a qualified practitioner.
Here to support you
Our educator team is ready to guide you through setting up your profile and finding work that suits you. Welcome to Humly!