Whats your name?
Hi I’m Mel (Melanie) and I’m one of the Senior Early Years Practitioners at Fintry Mains Childcare & Community Hub here in Dundee.
What age group do you work with?
I work with and have experience of working with all age groups from our babies to the out of school club which has allowed me to build positive and fundamental relationships with all children, parents and staff.
What qualifications and how many years of experience do you have?
I qualified in 2012 with a HNC in Early Years and childcare and completed my SVQ Level 4 in Social services and young people in 2020. My first job in the early years was in 2009 as a lunch time cover which came from being on placement, this then turned into a 4 year full time job.
What does an average day look like and what types of activities do you do?
At the moment I am doing a mix of office based work and 3 hours on floor in the playrooms. I complete the rota on a Wednesday for the following week. I ensure to support all members of our staff team within their roles on floor and with completing paperwork such as planning and observations.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Knowing that we are supporting so many families by providing a unique flexible service. Seeing our children grow from babies to young learners and watch their skill sets and personalities blossom and knowing you have played a role in that will always be rewarding
What made you choose a career in childcare?
I love to make a difference and I’ve always loved to care for children, especially my younger cousins growing up. Going to college and completing both my NC and HNC confirmed for me that childcare was the path for me. Knowing you’ve made a difference in a child’s life and learning.. there’s no better feeling than that.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up and why?
I always knew that wanted to work with either animals or work with children but I just got a puppy instead and chose children!
