Why become a childminder
If you’re an organised person, you’d like to be your own boss and you love working with children, childminding could be for you.
You could get a grant to help set up, and we offer lots of support and help.
You don’t need a huge house, to own your own home, or have special qualifications before you apply. But you will need to be:
- caring and encouraging
- determined and resilient
- keen to give children high-quality, professional childcare in East Sussex
If this sounds like you, keep reading to find out how to take your first steps.
Childminding can be very rewarding when you work closely with a child and their family. It’s the ultimate in job satisfaction when you can make a major difference in a child’s life.
How much can you earn?
Some families are eligible for childcare funded by the government. This is how much you get paid for places that the government fund:
- under 2-year-olds: £11.15 per hour
- 2-year-olds: £8.20 per hour
- 3- and 4-year-olds: £5.42 per hour
Please note that the amounts change every year and that they can go down as well as up.
For private places, you can set your own rates, and you can care for up to six children under the age of 8.
But:
- only three can be under 5 years old
- only one can be under 1-year-old
Remember to count your own children in these numbers.
It gave me an income and allowed me to be at home with my own children when they were young.
Grants
See if you are eligible and how to apply for grants for childminders.
Is it hard to set up?
You start by registering either with a childminder agency or with Ofsted. Next, you complete essential training courses and checks.
You’ll need to be ready for the challenges of running a business, but we help you at every step of your journey. We offer :
- telephone and email support for help and advice
- guidance through the registration process
- continued support for your first inspection and beyond
Email: Childcare Support Team
Telephone: 01323 463026
What does a childminder do?
No two days are the same. Different childminders have different ways to make the perfect day for the children they look after.
For example, you might take them out on enriching day trips, or run fun activities in your home.
You can work at home, in a community hall, or partner with a local school. You could also employ an assistant to help your business expand and grow when the time is right.
You’ll look after children aged 0 to 8 years-old. You will offer them a rich, play-based environment where they can explore and learn. You'll also offer lots of chances to try new things.
No formal qualifications are needed, and we can support you with training and the help you need to succeed. Also, you’ll need to get inspection-ready because Ofsted inspects you occasionally, as will your agency if you register with one. You get lots of training to ensure you’ll be ready.
Why do parents choose childminders rather than nurseries?
A childminder is ideal for families who want professional childcare in a family-based setting.
Childminders offer more flexibility than a nursery. You can give families more options if something unexpected comes up.
Who can become a childminder?
Anyone can become a childminder and childminders come from all walks of life.
Whether you’re looking for a part-time opportunity or a full-time career, childminding offers a rewarding career with flexibility to work around your family. It’s also a chance to shape young lives and make a difference to your local community.
You can have a big influence on their progress, and sometimes help them achieve, and their family overcome, what previously seemed like a big struggle or barrier.
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