Process for becoming a childminder in Bristol
 Phone Family Information Service (FIS) 0117 3574192 and receive an information pack about
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childminding.
Book on to a Briefing session (call FIS). This two and a half hour session will help you to understand
what a childminder is and the responsibilities and requirements of the role. It will also give you
information about Ofsted, the course you need to do, and how to register with Ofsted.
There will be a short assessment at the end of the session to determine basic literacy skills and the
understanding needed for the childminding course - it is necessary to pass this assessment in order to
be funded by the local authority. You will be notified if you have passed the assessment.
Book on to the Introduction to Childminding Practice (ICP)
- 8 x 2 hour evening sessions.
- assignments set each week
- cost £245.
- some funding available
Funding: childminders are needed in the following areas: Southmead, Hillfields, Bartonhill, a small
part of Eastville, Hartcliffe, Filwood and Knowle West. If you live in one of these areas and can
provide early years (under 5s) places, you may be eligible to have the course fee paid by Bristol
City Council (subject to a home visit by a member of the Childminding Support Team and a funding
agreement). There are under-represented groups in the childminding workforce that may also be
eligible for funding, such as BME and male prospective childminders. Prospective childminders who
already have a level 3 qualification relevant to early years, may also be funded.
Attend a Paediatric First Aid Course. This must be a minimum of 12 hours with ‘paediatric’ on the
certificate. This must be completed before you can register with Ofsted.
Apply for a DBS and join the DBS Update Service, for every household member over 16.
Apply to Ofsted for Registration.
Ofsted will contact you for a registration visit.
Cost of becoming a childminder
Briefing Session
Free
ICP course
£245 inclusive of resources fee
Resources fee
£25 paid by funded applicants
First Aid
£90 - £140 (cost varies)
DBS
£ 52.60 plus DBS Update £13 a year
Doctor’s fee
£0 - £80 for completion of your Health Declaration (cost varies)
Ofsted Registration
£35 minimum fee
Public Liability Insurance
£80 - £150 can include professional paperwork and membership (cost varies)
Resources to make your home safe and stimulating
Some useful contacts:
Family Information Service 0117 3574192
Childminding Support Team [email protected]
Ofsted 0300 123 1231