Introduction to childminding practice course (ICP)

[leeloo1]

Hi all,

Does anyone know if it is compulsory to do this course to become a childminder (I'm already a qualified Early Years Teacher)? My council's childminding people (CIS?) have said its an Ofsted requirement, Ofsted have said its up to CIS - which makes me think its not that compulsory?!

I'm just feeling that there's so much expense involved with all of these courses and requirements (and there's no funding/grants available in this borough for setting up as a childminder) that I'd rather avoid the expense of it if I can!

Or if anyone did the course and loved it then do let me know as maybe then I'll feel better about having to pay for it!

As far as I know it is compulsory, certainly is here, without the course, ofsted will not register you.

I know here it is asked for you to do it, & yes it seems a nuisance to do it as you are already an Early Years Teacher. Bear in mind this course also gives you the basics of working from home, negotiating contracts, policies etc. which are different to working as an employee in a larger setting.

yes, you do have to do it to become a CM although now it is called ChIP - not sure what that stands for!!

It also now covers the EYFS so it is useful.

It's compulsory unless you are doing the DCP. The DCP covers what you do in the ICP course.

Yes the ICP is compulsory there were two early years teachers on my course, both said they learnt a lot as it was very different from anything they had done before.

Thanks for the info - I'm really glad that other people have found it helpful, makes it much less irritating having to pay out for it. Its deeply annoying that Ofsted didn't just tell me that it was compulsory...

Although I am right in thinking you just have to have registered for a place on the course before registering with Ofsted rather than having completed it aren't I (she says hopefully, as no way could complete course before meant to start working!)

Ofsted only tell you what they want you to know and like keeping you in the dark .

Check with your local authority - when I registered I just had to be registered but I think it may have changed. Also, check about your first aid - around here they have to have it before registration.

Registered to attend the course that is