Information for Childminding Applicants

Childminding in Swindon

Swindon Borough Council is keen to work with the childminding sector to become increasingly flexible and well qualified. If you are thinking of becoming a childminder in Swindon before you apply you are advised to consider the following:

• Whether you are confident there is a demand in your area for your service and can offer the level of flexibility that many working parents need
• It is an expectation within Swindon that all childminders will be level three qualified within two years of registration. Access to childminding grants and networks is dependent on this.

Pathways to Registration

All prospective childminders must consider some of the basic requirements that must be met by all childminders before they decide to book on the Swindon childminders pre-registration course (Local Authority approved).

This information is available from the Family Information Service at Swindon Direct (01793 445500) or it can be accessed by clicking on the following link:

Pathways to Registration

GEMS (guidance, experienced mentoring and support)

Prospective childminders may have additional questions that are not covered under the basic guidance provided or are specific to their personal circumstances.

If this is the case and you wish to discuss your queries in more detail, please contact Trio Childminding Connections on 01793 608833.

Trio works with Swindon Borough Council to deliver childminding support services in Swindon; they have a scheme to put prospective applicants who need additional support in touch with existing experienced childminders (GEMS) who are able to offer further advice and guidance.

Swindon childminders pre-registration course (Local Authority approved)

All prospective childminders must do a specific preparatory course (pre-registration course) no matter what their educational entry level to the profession.

A briefing about making an application to register with Ofsted and the required forms are provided as part of the course.

Prospective childminders have the option to apply to Ofsted online. Swindon Borough Council is keen to encourage online applications. However, new applicants need to be aware that SBC Early Years and Childcare Workforce Development funding may only be available to subsidise the pre-registration course and first aid courses where they have been completed prior to the Ofsted application being made.

For further information please see the SBC Early Years and Childcare Workforce Development Training and Qualification Plan which can be accessed by clicking on the following link:

Training and Qualification Plan

To book onto the next available pre-registration course phone the training helpline on 0845 602 3209.