FAQs - Qualifications

Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC)

What is the Scottish Social Services Council?

The Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) was established in 2001 by the Regulation of Care (Scotland) Act and it is responsible for registering people who work in social services and regulating their education and training. The social service workforce includes people who work in daycare of children services.

Working in Childcare

Where can I get information about training and qualifications for working with children in the early years?

There are a number of sources, for example your local careers guidance office or local college should have up to date information on careers about working with children in the early years.  The SSSC website lists the qualifications that are required and it also provides a Career Development Toolkit to help you identify and plan your route.

I am going to work in a playgroup? Do I need to be registered with the SSSC?

Yes, you will need to become registered with the SSSC. To register, you must satisfy the criteria for registration. This includes holding the appropriate qualification for the job you will be doing and showing evidence of your good character. More details.

Why do I need to register?

Registration is a significant part of the drive for achieving a highly skilled and competent workforce in the sector and to increase the protection of children, and other vulnerable groups, who use daycare of children services.  Registration ensures the workforce is properly trained, appropriately qualified and effectively regulated.

How do I know which part of the register to apply for?

There are three parts to the register for people working in daycare of children’s services. Look at your job role and the functions that you will be expected to carry out on a regular basis, and match them to the descriptions given for the categories on the register; support workers in daycare of children services; practitioners in daycare of children services; managers of daycare of children services. You should register in that part of the register which best fits your role and functions.