Although I have the income potential of up to 18 an hour (out-of-school hours only and if I have no children of my own), or 9 an hour with three under-fives - the maximum childminders can be registered for - this does not take into consideration any expenses, including resources and equipment for a full range of ages, outings and toddler groups, transport, food and drink, heating and lighting, and general wear and tear on home furnishings.
Childminders also do a lot of work outside paid hours, including training provided - but not necessarily funded - by the local Early Years Development and Childcare Partnerships that is often attended by a variety of practitioners, including teachers and nursery nurses. Then there is the National Childminding Association's Quality First assurance scheme, and its Certificate in Childminding Practice, which is a CACHE Level 3 qualification funded by the childminder. There is business administration, including financial accounts, policy writing and reading mail, circulars and publications; and sickness and holidays, that are also unpaid.
Childminders have to adhere to Ofsted's national standards and are quality rated at inspection. Indeed, the NCMA's Quality First has been approved under the Department for Education and Skills' Investors in Children quality assurance scheme.
We work with many other professional people while supporting the children in our care. We do all this, have fun with the children and are available to our own families. Yet I do not know of many childminders who earn enough to pay income tax.
Marina Arnold Peterborough, Cambridgeshire
