Information and enrolment forms are available from each childcare assistant training institute (IFAP).

You need to download the application form from the IFAP website (or pick it up) and complete it.

You will usually need to enclose:

• An identity document
• A handwritten cover letter
• A CV
• (if apprenticeship) A copy of the signed apprenticeship contract or any document proving that steps have been taken with a view to the imminent signing of the apprenticeship contract.
• A hand-written document of no more than two pages, describing a personal or professional situation, OR the applicant's career plan in relation to the course requirements.
• Translated diplomas

See the Réfugiés.info sheet ‘Request an official translation of a document’.

If you are accepted on the basis of your application, you will then have to attend an oral interview.

You will need to:

• Introduce yourself
• Explain why you want to become a childcare assistant
• Understand the content of the childcare assistant training course
• Describe the job of nursery assistant
• Make sure that you have funding to cover the tuition fees
• Talk about your human and interpersonal qualities: what are your interests, your voluntary activities, your soft skills, etc.

There are several grants available to finance your studies:

• If you are unemployed, you can ask your France Travail adviser to finance your training. There are even ways of getting paid during your training.
• The region can finance a monthly grant for paramedical professions. Example for Île-de-France.

Once you've qualified as a childcare assistant, there are several options open to you.

You can work :

• In a crèche or day nursery: you'll be looking after children under the age of 3, feeding them, changing them, offering them early-learning activities and helping them to develop their independence.
• In a maternity unit. The main focus is on caring for infants and supporting parents.