A scheme to persuade more people into a career in childminding has been launched in Fife with the council working alongside the Scottish Childminding Association to recruit staff to deliver quality and flexible childcare.
It’s part of the Scottish Government’s three-year national childminder retention and recruitment programme that aims to grow the workforce and bring about positive changing for childminding, with Fife taking part in the Programme for Scotland’s Childminding Future.
The recruitment drive hopes to bring people who have left the industry back into it as well as persuade people to make the move into it, with a package of fully funded support, training and assistance throughout the process, as well as a £750 start-up grant available to newly-registered childminders who complete the programme as they look to set up their business.
Shelagh McLean, head of education at the council, believes it can be a rewarding and flexible career, with childminders reporting that they enjoy the flexibility of being able to run their own business from home and earning an income while bringing up their own children.
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She said: “Childminders provide vital support to children and parents by providing high-quality, flexible childcare and are an important part of our early learning and childcare sector. The care provided by childminders makes a real difference for the families they help.
“We’re aiming to recruit 18 more childminders in Fife. No previous childcare experience is required, but it’s essential to have a passion for working with and supporting the learning and development of children. If you’ve thought about starting a new, rewarding and flexible career that fits around your own family – this fantastic support package means that now is a great time to start!”
Councillor Cara Hilton, Fife Council Spokesperson for Education, said: “Fife Council is committed to providing high quality early learning and childcare for all of our children. Childminding provides a valuable childcare service and essential support to children and their families in our communities. It’s also a great opportunity to have a rewarding career that allows you to balance work with family life. For anyone thinking of starting a new career or returning to the profession, lots of support is available to help you.”
Karyn McKay has been a registered childminder for more than a decade having worked as an early years officer first, and loves her career because it gives her flexibility and she prioritises outdoor play.
Karyn said: “I initially qualified as an early years officer and worked in a nursery, which I enjoyed, but childminding offers more flexibility with hours, and I can work from home.
“It was wonderful when my children were younger as I didn’t have to worry about childcare or school holidays. I now prefer to deliver childcare in a homely environment, with a slower pace, where I can meet the individual needs of children.
“I look after look after 3 children aged 3-5 four days a week. This gives the children lots of 1-1 time in a quiet and supportive environment. I'd fully recommend childminding to anyone looking for a career with children.”
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