When I became accredited, it was a requirement that I:
be on an approved childminding network
have a level 3 qualification in childcare (which I completed in April 2011 obtaining an ‘A’ grade diploma)
receive a ‘Good’ or higher grade from Ofsted
complete a self evaluation for the early years education practice
complete an Early Learning Goals schedule which shows an understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
complete lots of paperwork to show understanding of child development
am able to plan activities incorporating all 7 areas of learning which build on the needs, interests and goals of the individual child
have an understanding of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs
have the children’s learning journeys checked by a Foundation Stage Consultant to ensure planning and observations meet Government requirements
sign contracts with the Council agreeing to comply with all requirements of the Government’s Office for Standards in Education Children’s Services & Skills
understand the legal commitment of being an accredited childminder
As an accredited childminder, I am able to obtain Government funding for 9 months, 2, 3 and 4 year olds to provide early education in place of a preschool, nursery or playgroup. Please see www.childcarechoices.gov.uk for more details. I also have a Funding Policy which goes into detail of how my setting delivers funded places.