Childminders can find a way to EYTS

Standard 3 of the new Early Years Teacher Status requires trainees to ‘Demonstrate a critical understanding of the EYFS areas of learning and development and engage with the educational continuum of expectations, curricula and teaching of Key Stage 1 and 2.’

It has bought into question potential barriers for childminders to access the EYITT and meet all of the necessary requirements. The new structure of the pathways require all trainees to complete a two week placement within a key stage 1 class, in order to fully evidence a critical understanding of the expectations of the National Curriculum.

Childminders are self-employed, fulfilling all expectations of the EYFS safeguarding & welfare and learning & development requirements, alongside holding full responsibility for running a successful business. The working day is most often 11 hours long, without traditional breaks and any time off is taken in partnership with parental needs and within school holidays. Furthermore childminders’ holidays are usually taken as either unpaid or at a reduced rate. However, this year’s EYITT course is very flexible, and follows a continuous assessment process, so for childminders, it may fit better around their responsibilities. An employer incentive of £7000 is also available, which may go towards supporting a childminder while studying the EYITT programme.