Flying Start practitioner

A Flying Start worker provides care and support for children in their learning and development in an unsupervised or supervisory role.

The role aims to make sure children experience a wide range of creative and experimental play opportunities in a safe and welcoming environment.

For qualification requirements, a childminder who doesn’t work with an assistant(s) is defined as a Flying Start Practitioner and a childminder who does work with a childminder assistant(s) in the setting is defined as a Flying Start Leader.

Last updated: 17 June 2024

Registration is not required

Qualifications gained outside of Wales

Workers moving to Wales who hold a qualification recognised by the Department of Education (England), the Northern Ireland Social Care Council or Scottish Social Service Council should complete aspects of the All Wales induction framework for early years and childcare that are relevant to their role and the setting.

However, employers should ensure that any other UK qualification meets the criteria set out in this Qualification Framework before accepting it for employment.

Induction requirements

Practitioners who are new to the early years and childcare sector or new to an organisation should complete the All Wales induction framework for early years and childcare.