How to become a Childminder in County Durham

Are you interested in a career working with children? 

There are a number of options for working with children including working in schools and nurseries.  However, if you are looking for a more flexible option then working as a childminder could be for you.

Childminding

If you want a rewarding career, to be your own boss and run your business from your own home, then childminding could be for you.  As a childminder you will:

• care for your own children at the same time if you have a family

 

• provide a happy and stimulating  environment

 

• provide early years education and see the children develop

 

• work in your own home, choosing the hours you work and the services you provide

What does a childminder do?

Childminders work in their own home, looking after children.  This could be throughout the day with babies and children under five, or after school and in the school holidays with older children.

As a childminder you will work to a national standard, and be inspected by Ofsted to ensure you provide a safe and stimulating environment for the children that you care for.  Activities may include:

• visiting a park, museum, library or playgroup

 

• arranging fun, stimulating learning activities, such as dressing up, creative play, reading, exploring cultural events

• providing meals and snacks for the children, involving them in food preparation and menu choices 

 

 • taking children to and from school or clubs

 How do I become a childminder?

Step 1: Request a pre-registration pack - click here or call 0800 917 2 917 between 8.30am — 4.30pm

Step 2: Complete and return the reply slip to register your interest

Step 3: Book your place on a pre–registration course and download / view your Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) pack in preparation for your course

Step 4: Attend the pre-registration training session.  There is an additional course that will help you prepare for your Ofsted Registration visit, you will find out more about this on your training session.

Step 5: Once you complete your training call us on 0800 917 2 917 to receive your Application Pack.  This includes details on CRB, Health and Social Services checks via Ofsted

Step 6: Arrange and attend a paediatric first aid course

Step 7: Ofsted inspect your home

Step 8: Ofsted inform us that you are now registered

Step 9: We will send you a Post Registration Pack.  This includes information a questionnaire to enable us to advertise your services free of charge