Nursery World - Value for money (2)

Childminders are often quoted as earning only around 2.50 to 3 per hour. But it is worth remembering that a childminder can have up to six children under eight in her care at the same time, allowing her to earn in the region of 18 an hour. A qualified nursery nurse would never be able to earn this amount. A childminder with only three children in her care could still earn up to 9 an hour - more than a nursery assistant could ever dream of.

A qualified nursery nurse would never be able to earn this amount. A childminder with only three children in her care could still earn up to Pounds 9 an hour - more than a nursery assistant could ever dream of.

The Government needs to ensure that financial help is given directly to nursery staff. Money is being given directly to parents by way of tax relief, and the parents of three- and four-year-old children also receive reductions in their nursery fees through the nursery education grant. Yet, in spite of this, parents and the Government still want cheap childcare, and nursery assistants lose out yet again.

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