Nursery World - Finding the right ingredients

I have been a childminder for 13 years. I am proud to call myself a childminder and am incensed that anyone in the 'home childcarer' category would consider feeling offended at being called a childminder ('Nannies are not childminders', Letters, 9 May). I agree with Lindsay Byrne that many nannies are qualified, but you would be surprised at how many qualified nannies become childminders. Our profession is always changing, and good childminders will undertake the training to ensure they are kept up to date with all new issues.

I agree with Lindsay Byrne that many nannies are qualified, but you would be surprised at how many qualified nannies become childminders. Our profession is always changing, and good childminders will undertake the training to ensure they are kept up to date with all new issues.

Qualifications are not the be all and end all of childcare, however. Many people who are 'qualified' are not necessarily the best at their job and, by the same token, 'untrained' people can be outstanding in their chosen profession.

With regard to a national register of nannies, I hope the Government will introduce such a register, because the parents of the children we care for deserve to know their childcarer has been police-and health-checked, and has undergone a rigorous inspection to ensure they reach the national standards (as childminders do).

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included