​

Ratios

Registered childminders work in their own homes and provide childcare for up to 6 children under the age of 8 years old. Childminders usually do not have more than 3 children under the age of 5 years old. These ratios ensure that your child is well cared for and their needs are met. The flexibility that a home based childminder can offer appeals to parents who work long hours or shift work or even parents who just need a few hours free time each week. Siblings can usually be cared for together which means that school children are able to spend time with their younger siblings after school. Many children stay with the same childminder for years - some well into secondary school.

​

Ofsted

Childminders are regularly inspected by Ofsted. They follow the Early Years Foundation Stage and have the same high standards as any other childcare provider. All childminders must also have attended a 12 hour Paediatric first aid course which is updated every 3 years. Newly qualified childminders also attend an introductory course in home-based childcare. For many childminders these are just the first steps on a longer training pathway even up to degree level. Most childminders already have hands on experience of bringing up their own children which is the best qualification of all!

​

Real life experiences

Childminders are able to provide many real life learning experiences for your child. They can enjoy trips to the park, library, shopping, toddler groups, beach, farms, woods, the list is endless. They can also take part in various activities - painting, messy play, cooking, role play, story time, music and movement, gardening, small world play, tummy time, quiet time etc. 

​

Funding for eligible two, three & four year olds

Many childminders are registered to provide the 15 hours Universal and the 15 hours extended free early years entitlement for 3 and 4 year olds and eligible 2 year olds.

​

To find more information on the funding please follow the link to funding here.

​

Further information

Parents are very welcome to attend the group to meet childminders for an informal chat. Please contact Charmaine Newman on 01732 364557 or 07745 461575 to arrange.

​

Vacancy Coordinator

If you are looking for a childminder please contact our Vacancy Coordinator - Clare Drew - who will be happy to help you find the childcare you require.
Her contact details are clarey.drew@gmail.com