Become a tutor

Lady with mugAlthough the process for becoming a childminding tutor will differ in each area – and may depend on your previous experience – here are some steps to think about:

 

Taking training courses

You need to be qualified to at least level 3 before you can become a tutor, so this is the first step.

 

During your training sessions, volunteer to speak out and do presentations on topics you feel comfortable with. You will also need to show evidence of, and a commitment to, your own continuing professional development.

 

If you are part of a childminding network, you could volunteer to lead training sessions on specialist areas that you know about, for example, sign language, messy play or craft activities.

 

Talking to a tutor

Most tutors will be willing to share what they know. Talk to a tutor and ask what’s involved in becoming a tutor in your area. Ask if you can shadow them while they are delivering a training session and then, when you are more confident, you could lead part of a session, followed by a whole session with your tutor mentor observing.

 

Taking an adult teaching qualification

In some areas holding an adult teaching qualification might be an essential requirement for becoming a tutor. In other areas it may be necessary to have a commitment to achieving this qualification within a year of starting tutoring. For more information about appropriate courses visit http://www.cityandguilds.com/.

 

Registering with your local early years team

Your local early years team or childminding development team will probably hold a list or pool of tutors that they can call on to deliver training. Express your interest in becoming a tutor and ask them what you’ll need to do next – most will expect you to attend an interview. NCMA also employs tutors directly. Talk to your local NCMA office for more information.