How to become School houseparent
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- working towards this role
- applying directly
College
You could take a relevant college course that might help you when applying for jobs. For example:
- Level 2 Award in First Aid Essentials
- Level 2 Award in Safeguarding Children and Young People
- Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People's Workforce
Entry requirements
You'll usually 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
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Work
You could start as a trainee houseparent or member of the wider pastoral care team in a school and work your way up. For example, by taking on-the-job training through the Boarding Schools' Association.
Volunteering
You will most likely need paid or voluntary experience of working with children and young people. You could volunteer at your local school or search for opportunities on:
Direct Application
You could apply directly for jobs as a school houseparent. Employers will be interested in your personality and character.
You'll usually need experience of working with young people. Employers may also ask for relevant training and qualifications, including GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English and maths, and a first aid certificate.
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Career tips
Some employers look for people with experience in roles like:
- nursery assistant, teaching assistant or nanny
- education welfare officer or nurse
- young people's counsellor or youth worker
- mentor or behaviour support assistant
Further information
You can learn more about about working in boarding schools from the Boarding Schools' Association.