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A Children come first childminding network is made up of a group of registered childminders (in my county there is a maximum of 20 minders to each network) who are managed by a Network Co-ordinator. Before becoming part of a Network every childminder is assessed by the Coordinator to ensure they are working to the quality standards of the NCMA and the National Standards. This includes a health and safety inspection and a general inspection looking at policies, working practices, training, attitudes to behaviour, discrimination etec. Once part of a network, the co-ordinator visits every 6-8 weeks to ensure that these standards are being maintained to monitor and discuss aspects of childminding and training opportunities. In general, network minders work to higher standards than those who are not.
Networks are a valuable source of support for not only minders but parents too, the Network Co-ordinator is there for them as well - for support, help in finding care or emergency back-up or as a mediator should there be a problem.
Children come first is the only nationally recogtnised quality assurance scheme for childminding networks - developed by NCMA in partnership with the DfES and OFSTED. Once approved by NCMA a network can offer other benefits - members who become accredited can off parents the opportunity to use their 'nursery grant' with them rather than go to playgroup or nursery settings.
In some areas 'employer networks' are being set up, where employers can use childminding networks to offer staff access to quality assured childcare. Companies may, in some cases, subsidise the childcare.
Well, that's your starter for ten! Much more info can be found on the web - NCMA or childcare links.
I became a network minder to give my parents additional benefits and to help enable me to achieve more in my chosen career.
