My intention when I started to build this website was to cover all aspects of childminding for Ofsted registered independent childminders so it would become a 'one-stop-shop' for advice and support.

After nearly a year of writing information, researching, adding pages, reading hundreds of Ofsted inspection documents and childminder reports and updating blogs and newsletters, I feel that I have finally achieved my aim!

I will, of course, continue to update the website with changes and add new information. 

The information will be useful for newly registering childminders... established childminders who want to remain independent... childminders who are leaving agencies to strike out on their own. 

What is an independent childminder? 

Independent childminders want to remain self employed and work outside of agency control. Independent childminders want to continue to be inspected by Ofsted and to retain their individual Ofsted grade.

I am being asked by many childminders at the moment - how will agencies affect me?

To be honest with you, we really don't know - the crystal ball is broken on this one. However, I know that I am determined to remain independent and continue working exactly as I am now. However, I am not naïve and I know that challenges are coming, so I want to be as prepared as possible for them.