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Childminding

Becoming a registered Calderdale childminder

Case Study: Cathy – Registered Childminder

After leaving school Cathy went to college where she gained a NNEB nursery nurse qualification. She has had various jobs in the childcare profession including working as a non-teaching assistant in a language centre and being a peripatetic nursery nurse for Social Services. For the last ten years Cathy has been a registered childminder as well as looking after her own two children.

'I was told at school that I would go into a caring profession and how caring it can be looking after someone else’s children . For the past three years I have cared for a little girl who is deaf and have worked alongside sensory support, Bradford implant service and attended music for the deaf. As you can see childminding can be a very challenging and rewarding job. You also build a strong relationship with parents as well as the children and it is satisfying to know that you have helped in the children’s early development.'

'I found childminding to be the answer to my needs; I could stay at home to care for my children and also be paid to care for other children. My own children have found this beneficial too, making new friends and learning in their home environment. As a member of the Calderdale Children Come First Childminding Network, I have been able to access excellent training and at present I am training to become a mentor for new childminders.'

Cathy is a shining example of Calderdale's registered childminders.

Is this you?

What would I be doing?

You will have to meet the Ofsted National Standards for Childminding and will have regular inspections to ensure you continue to meet the standards.

Will I need to be qualified or undertake training?

There are ongoing opportunities for personal development within childminding. Initially, you will need to complete an Introduction to Childminding Practice (ICP) course and a first aid course. Once you are registered, you will be able to access the full range of training offered by Calderdale Family Services Team.

What support is available for me?

After attending the Childminder Information Session, you will receive support from a Family Services Childcare Development Officer. They will work with you through the Ofsted registration process and support your development.

Calderdale also offers a Childminding Business Support Package, which currently consists of:

• ICP course costs
• Child Protection Handbook
• NCMA Quality Starts Package
• Paediatric First Aid course costs
• Support from a Mentor Childminder.

Once you are registered, Calderdale Families' Information Service (FIS) will help market your business by passing your details* on to parents and carers who are looking for childcare via the FIS helpline and Childcarelink| .

* FIS will not share any details without written consent from childminders.

Ready to check it out? Then contact the Families' Information Service.

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