What childminders do
Registered
childminders are childcare professionals who work in their own
homes caring for other people’s children. Rather than being
employed by parents, they negotiate a contract with parents for
their service for which they charge a fee. Because they are usually
self-employed, they take care of their own tax and national
insurance contributions.
Childminders who care for children under 8 are required by law
to be registered and inspected. In England, childminders are
registered and inspected by Ofsted. In Wales, by the Care and
Social Services Inspectorate Wales.
Childminders who care for children aged from birth to
7 must join the Ofsted Early Years Register and the
compulsory part of the Ofsted Childcare Register.
Trained
All registered childminders must have taken introductory
training in childcare and many go on to take further qualifications
in children's care and education. All childminders must also hold a
current certificate in paediatric first aid.
Checked and insured
Registered childminders have had a police check or a disclosure
from the Criminal Records Bureau, checking that they are suitable
to work with children. Their homes are regularly inspected to
ensure that they are safe, welcoming and child-friendly.
Childminders should also hold public liability insurance. NCMA
offers public liability insurance for childminders, underwritten by
Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc.