Half of childcare staff may consist of trainees

What changes?

Are you the owner of childcare organisation? You will be able to deploy professionals in training more widely. 

Since 2022 a temporary scheme is in place allowing up to 50% of your workforce to consist of trainees. Without this scheme the limit is 33%.

The temporary scheme was set to expire on 1 July 2026. But the minister has extended the scheme with 2years, until 1 July 2028. 

This way you have more options to deal with staff shortages. And you may also be able to keep groups running more often in case of staff illness, leave, or breaks.

Conditions for employing professionals in training

You will have to meet several conditions to deploy trainees as professionals in the group:

• At most 50% of the workforce can consist of professionals in training
• You have to draw up a mentoring plan.
• The trainee has to agree with this plan.
• The trainee’s practical supervisor must agree with the plan.
• The trainee’s educational supervisor must agree with the plan.

Proper supervision is mandatory. This ensures quality in childcare and helps trainees with their professional development.

For whom?

• childcare providers
• daycare centres
• out-of-school care (BSO)

When?

This extension will take effect on 1 July 2026 and will run until 1 July 2028.

The minister will decide towards the end of 2027 whether the scheme will be made permanent or will be discontinued.