Ever thought about working with little kids, but not sure where to even start? Maybe you’ve just had a career break or you’re itching for something more meaningful. Or maybe you’re young and just thinking, “Could this be the thing for me?” Well, if you’re in or around Sheffield, there’s something happening this weekend that might just help you figure that out.
The Department for Education is setting up a special pop-up at Meadowhall Shopping Centre on Friday 11th and Saturday 12th April, running from 9am to 5pm each day. It’s all part of their Do Something Big campaign – and it’s not just for people already in education. It’s for anyone wondering what it’s actually like to work in early years.
Why early years jobs might be exactly what you’re looking for
Let’s be real – not everyone dreams of working in a nursery. But loads of people end up loving it once they give it a go. Why? Because being part of those first years of a child’s life is a big deal. It’s not babysitting. It’s shaping futures.
Imagine this: you help a shy three-year-old find their voice. Or teach a toddler how to count to ten for the first time. Sounds small, but it sticks with them – and with you too. That’s the kind of real-world impact people are after these days.
And if you’ve ever said, “I want a job that actually makes a difference,” this is a great place to start.
What’s happening at Meadowhall this weekend?
At the pop-up stand in Meadowhall, you’ll be able to:
- Chat with people who know the early years sector inside out
- Learn about different job roles – from apprenticeships to full-time careers
- Find out what qualifications or training you might need (and how to get them)
- Get honest answers about pay, career progression, and day-to-day life working with young kids
There’s no need to book, and no pressure to sign up for anything. Just pop by between shopping, have a chat, and take away some info.
Who should go?
Honestly? Pretty much anyone who’s curious. That includes:
- School leavers looking at apprenticeships
- Parents returning to work
- Uni drop-outs unsure what’s next
- People switching careers
- Anyone who loves working with kids (or thinks they might)
You don’t have to show up with a CV or anything. You don’t need to have loads of experience. This is just a way to dip your toe in the water.
The ‘Do Something Big’ campaign – what’s it all about?
The Do Something Big campaign is part of a wider push by the Department for Education to get more people into early years roles. Because right now, there’s a growing demand for nursery staff, but not enough people stepping up.
It’s not about sugar-coating things either – working with young kids can be messy and unpredictable. But it’s also joyful, silly, and surprisingly satisfying.
They want more people to know that early years is a proper career path – not a “filler job” or something you do just to pass time. Whether you work your way up to be a nursery manager or move into teaching, there are loads of routes to grow.
Quick facts if you’re short on time
Here’s what you need to know:
- 📍 Where: Meadowhall Shopping Centre, Sheffield
- 📅 When: Friday 11th and Saturday 12th April
- 🕘 Time: 9am to 5pm, both days
- 🎯 What: Interactive stand for anyone interested in working with children
- 💬 Why: Learn about training, qualifications, job options, and what it’s really like
Why not just check it out?
You don’t have to commit. You don’t even have to stay long. Just stop by, have a chat, and see what’s out there. Worst case? You learn something new. Best case? You find a new career you didn’t even know you’d love.
And who knows – maybe this is where your story starts.
