How to become a Portage home visitor
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- volunteering
- applying directly
University
You could do a foundation degree or degree in early childhood studies or child development.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could learn some of the skills you need for this job through a college course like:
- Level 2 Certificate in Special Educational Needs and Disability
- Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care
- T Level in Education and Early Years
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level
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Apprenticeship
You could do an Early Years Educator Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in a school or nursery before moving into Portage work.
This can take around 1 year and 6 months to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Volunteering
Some local authorities may offer opportunities to be a volunteer Portage worker. Experience of supporting children with special needs can be helpful, even if you do not have childcare qualifications.
You can find opportunities through your local council and the National Portage Association.
Direct Application
You could apply directly to employers if you've got experience of working with children aged 0 to 4 years, and knowledge of early childhood development and special needs.
You may also need one of the following:
- a relevant professional qualification in teaching, social work or nursing
- a level 2 or 3 early years qualification
- a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in early childhood studies
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Career tips
You could do a Portage Workshop led by a National Portage Association accredited trainer. This might be a good way for you to find out more about the role and get an insight into the skills and training you may need.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the National Portage Association for training and networking opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about working as a Portage home visitor from the National Portage Association.