Department for Education Childminder Mentor Program

The Department for Education put together an Early Years Recovery Program following the effects of COVID. More details of the investment that has been made and links to additional help can be found here. I was a mentor for childminders under this program for 2 years. The program has now ended.

What is it?

The childminder mentor program is funded by the Department for Education to support childminders in England. Experienced Childminders applied for the positions of Area Lead and Mentor and were given 2 months intensive training.

From May 2023 these trained childminders have been offering support to childminders in how to:-

identify strengths and areas for development
improve confidence in or knowledge of child development
implement the early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework
plan an effective curriculum
support children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
support children with English as an additional language (EAL)
build strong relationships with parents and carers

What does it cost?

The support is free and is mainly offered virtually. Childminders will receive up to 4 days of support; for one term. The 4 days will be split into hours, to suit the mentor and the childminders they are supporting.

My bespoke support is via 1 hour zoom calls once a week during term time; plus additional support by telephone and email where required.

Childminders complete an application form outlining the areas where they require support. We put together bespoke support to scaffold learning and discussions in these areas.

Who can apply?

To apply for support childminders must currently be providing childcare to at least one child between the ages of 0 to 5. Childminders can apply as individuals or as part of a small group of up to 4 people. If you apply as an individual you will be placed in a group with others and this offers opportunities to network with other professionals in your local area.