Becoming a Childminder in St Helens

Would you like to become a childminder in St Helens?
"I would recommend that if you are caring, like to learn new things, are able to pretend to drink numerous cups of tea, eat lots of pretend meals, have a little bit of an inner child and love to have fun, you have the foundations to start you off on a career in early years" - manager of a St Helens nursery.
Thinking About Becoming a Childminder? Here's What You Need to Know
If you're passionate about working with young children and supporting families in your community, becoming a registered childminder could be a rewarding career choice.
The Department for Education (DfE) has recently updated its policy paper on childminder agencies, which outlines the different routes available for registration. You can now choose to register either:
- Directly with Ofsted, or
- Through a childminder agency, which offers additional support, training, and business services.
Both routes are valid and recognised, and each offers different benefits depending on your needs and preferences. Understanding these options is important to help you make an informed decision about the path that's right for you—and the families you'll be working with.
To explore the updated guidance and learn more about childminder agencies, visit:
Childminder Agencies - GOV.UK
If you're considering becoming a childminder and would like advice or support, feel free to get in touch with your local authority's Early Years team.
Call our Early Years Quality and Inclusion Team on 01744 675397 or 01744 671051 or email our Early Years Quality and Inclusion Team at eyhub@sthelens.gov.uk
Resources to get you started on your journey to becoming a childminder.
New to childminding? Explore the essential information below to start your journey with confidence.
Work as a childminder - Early Years Careers
Become a childminder or nanny (England): Overview - GOV.UK
Early years: childminders - YouTube
Early years foundation stage statutory framework for childminders