Opinion

Opinion: Editor's View - Childminders are being wooed by all the political parties

Provision
It's been a good couple of weeks for childminding. The sun beamed down at last week's National Childminding Association election manifesto launch at the House of Commons terrace (see News, page 3). Happy MPs, sector dignitaries, childminders and children mingled by the river, not even needing their coats!

While sponsoring Labour MP Joan Humble had been called away to her constituency, the Tories and LibDems vied for childminding's favours, with shadow minister for the family Maria Miller looking rather slow on her feet compared with LibDem spokesperson for children, schools and families Baroness Walmsley.

Ms Miller praised childminders, but added that she was really lucky to have her childcare provided by her parents. Baroness Walmsley was able to cite her direct experience of using childminders.

Ms Miller hinted that the Conservatives saw the EYFS as a barrier to attracting more recruits to childminding and said it was proving difficult for childminders. Baroness Walmsley not only backed the NCMA's support for the EYFS, but said that the LibDems had taken action on worries over EYFS bureaucracy, by sending Annette Brooke MP to meet Ofsted chief Christine Gilbert, with the result that new guidance on reducing the burden is to be issued.

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

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here