Men in Childcare by Ryan Goldsworthy

Two and a half years ago after the pandemic I made the exciting decision to leave my career of 15 years to join the family business and to work with my wife Sam for Sam Goldsworthy Childminding.

The pandemic changed the outlook of many people and this combined with our daughter Imogen deciding to leave the business to do her teacher training gave me the necessary push after several years of deliberation.

I had assisted Sam during the 17 years of running the business, after school, working in my holidays and taking additional annual leave to work in the setting. However to leave a secure job still harboured some reservations especially to a profession that many stereotypically see as a role that should be undertaken by women. The support I have received during my time working in this role has mainly been positive and far outweighs the negative comments. Unfortunately I cannot say that I have not received discriminative comments even from other members within the profession which always surprises me but that is something I can live with as I love my job.

To have the opportunity to work with children and help shape their early years is something that inspires me and something that makes me jump out of bed in the morning rather than having to be dragged out of bed by the alarm clock. Every day is different and presents challenges and exciting opportunities for education to share with the children in our care whether at home in the setting or out in nature.

I read in an article recently in the YPO Little Learners Magazine with Julian Tully stating that the childminding workforce in the UK currently comprises of 3% males. I am sure that we have all heard the phrase ‘Girls can do everything boys can do’ which I totally agree with but in this instance I believe ‘boys can do everything girls can do’.

If you are a male and are hesitating because of societies perceptions and are considering entering the profession then take my advice and jump in with both feet as you will find no more rewarding a career.