Childminding
A registered childminder:
- looks after up to a maximum of six children under the age of eight years for over two hours a day on domestic premises (normally the childminder's own home) for payment
- is registered and inspected by Ofsted, who monitor the quality and standards of their care
- is self-employed
Childminders must be registered with Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education), who are responsible for ensuring that all childminders meet the 14 national standards for childcare, these include:
- being suitable to care for children
- providing a safe, stimulating and caring environment
- giving children opportunities for learning and play
- making sure that childminders work in partnership with parents and carers
How to register as a childminder
You will need to contact the Children's Information
Service on (020) 8825 5588 or email
children@ealing.gov.uk.
An information pack will be sent to you, and at a later date you
will be invited to a pre-registration session for new childminders.
This session will inform you about the process of registering as a
childminder.
If you wish to continue to register you need to attend an
advanced pre-registration session, complete an Ofsted application
form*, and undertake two training courses once you are registered.
The courses cover paediatric first aid and introducing childminding
practise.
*Please note that the registration process (from receipt of application to Ofsted) can take up to 12 weeks.
Is childminding for you?
Do you:
- like looking after children?
- enjoy planning activities for children?
- describe yourself as energetic, enthusiastic and caring?
Would you:
- enjoy caring for children from different cultures and backgrounds?
- enjoy working with parents to ensure you deliver a good service?
- be interested in caring for children with special needs, such as a disability or behavioural difficulty?
- enjoy working in your own home?