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
- training from a charity or private training provider
University
You could do a foundation degree or degree in early childhood studies.
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 3 Diploma in Early Years Education and Care
- T Level in Education and Early Years
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 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 learn some of the skills you would need to get into this job through an early years educator advanced apprenticeship.
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. Your experience of supporting children with special needs may make you a suitable candidate, even if you do not have childcare qualifications.
Direct Application
It may be possible to 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
Other Routes
You could do a 2 to 3 day Portage Workshop led by a National Portage Association accredited trainer. This could be a good way for you to find out more about the role before applying for work. No knowledge or experience is required.
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Career tips
You could do a portage awareness workshop to find out more about portage principles. It may also help you to decide if this is the career for you 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 becoming a Portage home visitor from the National Portage Association.