A common excuse for childcarers to refuse training is a lack of funds. They should contact their local Early Education Childcare Unit, who should be able to give information on training and bursaries covering such areas as First Aid, NVQ 3, 730 Tutor Training and NVQ 4, to name but a few. Then there is Individual Learning Accounts on 0800 072 5678, which can give individuals grants of up to 150 towards training.
As a childminder I spend time planning and assessing for the needs of my children outside my hours of work. I also attend evening training and work on volunteer committees. With so many changes in the early years, the time you spend supporting your job and the service you offer is even more desperately needed than ever. So my advice to all childcarers is to choose training carefully, and to seek out and use the support available.
A Dawson, Basingstoke, Hampshire
