New course in childcare

A university is launching a course aimed at getting more men to work in childcare.

Only 4% of those working in early years and childcare are male, according to the University of the Highlands and Islands.

It is piloting a 12-week course for men, with the classes run in evenings to better suit those already working during the day. Those who complete the course have the chance to gain an HNC in childcare.

UHI said the early years and childcare profession faces a skills shortage, with Scotland needing about 11,000 new workers by 2020 to meet the Scottish Government’s commitment to provide 30 hours of free childcare to eligible two to four-year-olds.