The UK government is making a record-breaking investment in childcare – and as part of this initiative, families are increasingly turning to childminders for flexible, high-quality care. If you’re looking for a meaningful, home-based career that fits around your life and family, childminding might be the perfect choice.
To help new professionals get started, there are grants available worth up to £1,200. Here’s a complete guide to what childminders do, how much they can earn, and how to get started.
What Is a Childminder?
Childminders provide care and early education for babies, toddlers, and children in a home setting. Many do this while caring for their own children, making it a convenient and rewarding job for parents.
The role involves much more than just supervision. Childminders actively support children’s development and prepare them for school through:
-
Indoor and outdoor play
-
Early learning activities
-
Nutritious meals and snacks
-
Communicating with parents about their child’s progress
As a childminder, you’ll be self-employed—managing your own business, setting your schedule, and shaping your work environment.
How Much Can Childminders Earn?
Your income will depend on how many children you care for, the hours you’re available, and the services you offer. Thanks to increased government funding, childminding has become more financially sustainable than ever.
Also Read – SEN Support in England Faces Major Reforms: Key Points for Schools
Here’s a look at the new national average funding rates for 2024–25:
-
£11.22 per hour for children under 2
-
£8.28 per hour for two-year-olds
-
£5.88 per hour for children aged three and four
These rates are higher than the average fees parents paid in 2023, meaning more support is reaching both families and providers.
What Support Is Available for New Childminders?
To reduce the cost of setting up your business, new childminders can apply for:
-
£600 grant if registering with Ofsted
-
£1,200 grant if registering through a childminder agency
This funding helps cover expenses such as training, equipment, and registration.
What Qualifications Do You Need?
You don’t need previous experience, but you will need to complete a few important steps before you can register:
-
Understand and apply the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework if you’ll care for young children
-
Complete paediatric first aid training
-
Complete safeguarding/child protection training
Once registered, you’ll also be able to access free training, including online courses focused on early childhood development.
How to Register
To start working as a childminder, you must register with either:
-
Ofsted – Register online here
-
A childminder agency – Find a list of agencies here
Both routes are valid, and the choice depends on your preference for managing your own administration or receiving additional support.
Also Read – Feeding Every Student Daily: Sweden’s Model for School Meal Success
Should You Choose Ofsted or a Childminder Agency?
-
Registering with Ofsted: You’ll be in charge of all business admin and support. An annual fee is required.
-
Registering with a childminder agency: Agencies offer guidance, admin support, and sometimes help with marketing. They usually charge a monthly fee or take a share of your earnings.
Learn more about the pros and cons of each option before deciding which suits your needs best.
How Many Children Can You Care For?
Currently, a registered childminder can care for up to six children under the age of 8. However, the rules specify:
-
No more than three children may be under the age of 5
-
Only one child can be under 12 months old
You can find full guidance in the EYFS framework here.
Can Childminders Work With Others?
Yes. At the moment, you can work with up to two other adults (either assistants or fellow childminders), which allows for three people under a single registration.
Coming soon: The government plans to increase this to allow four individuals to work together under one registration. This will create more opportunities for collaboration and flexibility.
Do You Have to Work From Home?
Childminders typically work from their homes, but you are allowed to operate from other suitable venues—like schools or community centres—for up to 50% of your working hours. Outings to libraries, parks, or playgroups are also encouraged.
Also Read – New School Opening Times Announced Across England for Monday
Good news: Future plans will allow even more flexibility to work from outside home-based settings. These changes are expected to take effect later this year.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a childminder offers a fulfilling career that makes a real difference in children’s lives while providing the flexibility to work around your own schedule. With startup grants, increased funding, and new policy changes on the horizon, now is a fantastic time to get involved.
For more information and to begin your application, visit:
Start your journey into a rewarding childcare career today.
