PBD says that it is often difficult for childminders to progress because there is no specialist higher qualification on the Qualifications Credit Framework (QCF).
The new Certificate in Advanced Childminding Practice is the first qualification to include modules for childminders set at Level 5.
The certificate is based on units from the new City & Guilds Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for the Children and Young People’s Workforce (Early Years), which was introduced in April.
It comprises 33 credits, 30 of which are set at Level 5, and three CYPOP optional units from the Children and Young People's Workforce Level 3 Diploma.
Areas of study include child development, professional development, developing environments and managing finance.
Although the PBD certificate is not a recognised QCF qualification, it is based exclusively on units from the Level 5 Diploma.
Childminders who complete the qualification will receive a City & Guilds certificate for each unit, in addition to a PBD certificate – the Certificate in Advanced Childminding Practice.
The QCF units can be banked and are fully transferable to the full Level 5 Diploma.
PBD’s training director Janet Dawson said,‘We have attended several trade shows recently promoting the new Level 5 Diploma in Early years Leadership,’ she said.
‘We have been flooded with interest from childminders but have had to tell many that they will struggle to achieve the leadership elements unless they employ staff or work as part of a network or agency.
‘As the awarding organisations have so far failed to rise to the challenge, we have decided to do so ourselves.’
