Becoming a Childminder

• Training needed
• Documents required
• Online childminding information sessions
• Information for nannies and home childcarers
• Frequently asked questions
• Who to contact for further information

Training needed

• Twelve hour paediatric first aid for children and babies
• Safeguarding and Child Protection
• Food Hygiene
• Childminding pre registration course - (or a minimum of a level 2 diploma in Childcare completed within the last 3 years) from any college or Pacey (external link)

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Documents Required

• Early years inspection handbook for Ofsted-registered provision (external link)
• EYFS Statutory Framework (PDF, 371KB)
• Birth to 5 Matters: Non-statutory guidance for the Early Years Foundation Stage (PDF, 7MB)

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Online childminding information sessions

Are you interested in becoming a childminder? Then why not attend one of our online childminding information sessions (please see details below). You will be given information on the process of Ofsted registration, Early Years Foundation Stage welfare and learning requirements, Ofsted application process, and additional training required.

Each session will run for a maximum of 2 hours, depending on the number of participants.

How to join

These information sessions will be delivered online using Microsoft Teams. You will need to download Microsoft Teams before you access the session (external link).

• If you would like to register for one of our information sessions, please complete the registration form:

Register now

• If you would like to find out more about these sessions, please contact the Childminding Development Coordinator via phone at 07866 518 449.

Information session cost

The cost of an information session is £36 plus VAT. Once you complete the registration form, you will receive an invoice at least 2 days before the session to make the payment.

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Information for Nannies and Home childcarers

Nannies and home childcarers must complete:

• Safeguarding and child protection course
• 12 hour paediatric first aid course
• Common Core Skills or have a minimum of a level 2 qualification in childcare

If they are expected to prepare food it is advisable that they complete a basic Food Hygiene course.

The above courses can be accessed through colleges or online or external training providers.

Nannies and home childcarers must have their own public liability insurance.

For more information on registration requirements please refer to the

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Frequently asked questions

Q. Why do I need to attend an Information session?
A. The information sessions provides a broad overview of what to expect when becoming a childminder, Some people seem to think that childminding is an easier childcare option. This session provides deeper understanding. It also dispels some myths about childminding.

Q. I already work as a nursery nurse, teacher or have worked with children for many years, do I still need to attend pre registration training?
A. Yes. Working as a childminder is very different from working in other childcare provision. Although there are many similarities and outcomes for the children, childminders are unique providers and this training helps you to identify those differences

Q. How long will the whole process take to become Ofsted registered?
A. From attending the information session to receiving your registration certificate from Ofsted could take up to 6 months - taking into consideration all the training and suitability checks that need to be completed in between.

Q. How long does it take to register with Ofsted?
A. From the date you send your application to Ofsted it should take approximately 12 weeks.

Q. Can I Childmind from rented accommodation?
A. Yes, however you must obtain permission from your landlord before you proceed.

Q. Is there an age limit?
A. The minimum age to become a childminder is 18, there is no upper age limit, but you must be healthy in mind and body.

Q. Will my family be checked?
A. Yes, all adults living on the premises (or visiting the premises on a regular basis) over 16 years old will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring DBS (formally CRB/police) check.

Q. Do I have to pay for training?
A. Yes, the Information session, Pre registration training, First Aid, Child Protection, Food Hygiene, Pacey and/or College training all carry a cost.

Q. How much does it cost to become a childminder?
A. Startup costs can be between £600 - £1000, taking into consideration training, DBS for you/family members, health checks, Ofsted registration, insurances and resources.

Q. Does the council provide start-up funding?
A. No, unfortunately the council is unable to provide financial support.

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Further information

• Coordinator for Childminding Services and Development
  Tel: 07866 518 449
• Email early.years@haringey.gov.uk

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