becoming a registered childminder

How do I become a registered childminder?

First you need to contact your local authority: Childcarelink - tel: 08000 96 02 96 will be able to give you their number. Remember, if you work as a childminder without being registered you are breaking the law. Anyone who cares for children for more than 2 hours per day for reward (this includes any sort of payment i.e. payment in kind or even a bunch of flowers!) must be registered and inspected by Ofsted. You can visit the Ofsted website for more information about inspections and registration. There are also downloads of the National Standards which you are required to meet as a Registered Childminder.

Do I need any special qualifications?

You do not need any qualifications to apply but once registered you must complete the FIRST UNIT of the diploma course Home-based Childcare (Cache level 3) and also complete a 12 hour Paediatric First Aid Course and gain a certificate - you will be given help in finding a suitable course near you.

Obviously you need to enjoy working with children and be able to provide stimulating play opportunities in a safe environment. You should understand equal opportunities and welcome and provide for the needs of children from differing backgrounds and abilities. You also need to be able to work with parents for the good of the children and be aware how children develop and learn. You will also have to keep attendance registers and records.

You should be prepared to consider doing more training in the future, that will help you provide good quality childcare. There is more on training here. Training

You might want to read more about childminding and what it involves - I've recently been given a copy of the book "Registered Childminding - The Secrets of Success" which provides very useful information - read my review here.

Is there a charge to register?

Yes, the current charges (revised 1st October 2006) for Childminders are:

* application fee £18

* subsequent annual fee £15

however, there are plans, and a consultation has just been completed to increase these to £30 over the next 3 years.

What happens after I've applied?

Pre-registration briefing sessions are held regularly and you will be expected to attend these where the registration process will be explained. These are very friendly sessions, you will gain lots of information and have the opportunity to ask questions. You will be given all the relevant forms and help with filling them in. If, after attending the session you realise childminding is not for you then you do not need to continue further - there is no commitment at all.

Call your local Children's Information Service to find out when the next briefing session is taking place (visit their website to find the number) or phone the ChildcareLink 08000 96 02 96. for details of your local information service in England. There is also information on the site on who to contact in Scotland.

Will it take long to become registered?

Ofsted aim to register most childminders within 3 months of their application but there are many references to be taken before you can become registered - a health check, CRB police check (Criminal Records Bureau) on you and every other adult in their household. Your home will be inspected too, to ensure it is a safe and suitable environment for children. Sometimes these checks can take longer than others so it isn't possible to give an definite time scale.

How many children can I care for? This will depend on how many children of your own you have and their ages. It will also depend on the size of your home as there are special child/space ratios -click here for the child/space ratios under EYFS Rules

Can I get financial help?

Yes, there are grants available towards the costs of setting up your childminding business. Full details will be given at the briefing session.

I've been told I will need special insurance is that right?

You will need Public Liability Insurance. You should also ensure your own house and contents insurer know that you are running a business from home, some do not charge an excess, however some do. If you plan to use your car for carrying the minded children then you should also tell that insurer too.

Is the insurance expensive?

Morton Michel currently offer childminding Public Liability at £40 per year - price correct at July 2008 - see their website for full details of cover and their charges for other types of policy.

Where can I buy toys and equipment? Try visiting The Childminding Shop, Debby and Jo are two Registered Childminders who have set up this on-line shop offering a variety of toys both traditional and multicultural, as well as puzzles, games and childminders resources including first aid.

What if my questions haven't been answered here?

Come along to the Childminding Forum where you can talk to experienced childminders and those just starting out - they have probably experienced what you are going through and will be glad to help. You can ask as many questions as you like, you will be made most welcome. Use the button link on the left when you've finished reading these pages or go direct now