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Discuss everything related to paid childcare here, including childminders, nannies, nurseries and au pairs.

Original poster

How to become a childminder?

3 replies

juniper9 · 14/12/2013 20:07

I'm wondering if anyone can help me. I'm currently on maternity leave with my 10 week old DD, and have recently been looking at my options for returning to work / my DD's childcare etc.

I've started considering the idea of becoming a child-minder rather than returning to my previous job, but I'm a bit confused as to how it works, and whether it would be practical.

My idea is that, if I were child-minding, I would be providing childcare for my DD at the same time as bringing in extra money by looking after other children.

I have a few questions, and I'm hoping someone here can help me.

  • I'm a qualified primary school teacher, so would I need to complete other qualifications? I generally teach year 3, but I am qualified in ages 3-11
  • Would being a teacher make me a more desirable option, from a parent's point of view?
  • How much does a childminder make, on average? It is cost effective? I live in south London / Surrey
  • What are the upfront costs?
  • What are the upsides?
  • What are the downsides?
  • How long would it take to register and be ready for work?

I know childminders are subject to Ofsted, but that doesn't bother me as I'm used to it.

I've looked online but the sites seem to assume I already know a lot more than I do.

Thanks Xmas Smile

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lucyfluff · 16/12/2013 16:26

Hiya, I recently registered as a CM (also primary school teacher).

Initially I contacted the LA who outlined a course/provider that was subsidised in my area at £100. Once on this I became fastracked as we have level 6 and the minimun requirement now is level 3. I found the course ok, a few assignments with a bit of a picky tutor but completed in 4 weeks. I also had first aid/safeguarding courses included.

Once this was completed I could apply to Ofsted and thats where the fun begins...I had to complete DBS for myself and hubbie/refs/doctors assessment and pay. It has been a very long wait for all this to go through mainly the DBS, and finally had my home visit last week (all took around six months).

During the wait I focused on setting up policies/risk assessments/and general runnng of my business. I must admit I thought it would be ALOT quicker to get up and running!!! The costs have amounted to probably £300 so far and I still need to get Public Liability insurance.

Sorry for the essay but hope this helps and if you need any other help please ask Smile Smile good luck!!!!

scarlettsmummy2 · 14/12/2013 22:41

Contact the local office of the childminding association. I work with the Scottish association, and here it takes 3-6 months to register. They can talk you through it all. Training is not compulsory, but recommended. You do need to have written policies and procedures, but templates are available.

HSMMaCM · 14/12/2013 22:35

Contact your local authority. Registration can be a lengthy process.

Being a teacher could be a good selling point.