SCMA's Induction Training
This six week training programme is recommended for those considering a career in childminding. The aim is to provide the necessary information required to assist potential childminders complete the application form from the Care Commission, and also help with making an informed choice regarding a career in childminding.

This training programme was reviewed and revised in line with the demands of childcare legislation and the National Care Standards. The programme reflects the fact that potential childminders must be more informed than ever before prior to registration.

All the sessions are interactive, and take the form of discussion groups. There are no tests or assignments to complete, just the opportunity to explore what childminding involves; to learn together; and to meet with other potential childminders. An Open Learning Pack will enable potential childminders in rural areas to participate in the training, even if it is difficult for them to attend the group sessions. For more information consult the Open Learning Pack section below. 

Induction training is supported by a series of handouts, which provide useful information to help with the initial stages of taking on a childminder role. A Certificate of Attendance will be awarded to those who attend the complete programme.

How To Get Started
Childminders who have applied for registration with the Care Commission can access SCMA's Induction Training either by requesting an Open Learning Pack or by attending group sessions in their local authority area.

Group Sessions
The Induction programme is normally delivered in 2 ½ hour sessions over a period of six weeks. The sessions are interactive and adopt a discussion group format. The training is supported by a series of informative handouts that provide support throughout the early stages of the 'Becoming a Childminder' process. Where possible, this programme runs in conjunction with the Care Commission. A Certificate of Attendance is awarded to those who complete the programme.

Open Learning Pack
The Open Learning Pack is designed as an open learning resource, the childminder can work through the pack at their own pace using the exercises to reflect on their understanding which can confirm their strengths and identify additional learning needs. The pack is particularly suitable for rural areas where applicants may not be able to attend group sessions.

THE SESSIONS

Session 1: Introduction to Childminding
The aim of this session is to clarify your understanding of the registration requirements. This includes:

• Completing the application form.
• Drawing up ‘statement of function'.
• Identify the aims of your registered childminding service.
• How to assess risk.
• Working to the Care Standards - what it means in a childminding setting.
• The information provided in this session will help you to complete Sections 1, 3, 5 & 6 in the application form. It will also give guidance as to how you would meet Care Standards 2, 7, 11 & 14.

Session 2: The Professional Approach
The aim of this session is to provide you with the information you need to set up your childminding service. This includes:

• Exploring the need to be ‘professional'.
• Business requirements - including record keeping, insurance cover, etc.
• Financial records for HM Revenue & Customs.
• How to set rates and what to charge.
• How to fill vacancies.
• Using contracts.
• The information provided in this session will help you complete Section 3 in the application form. It will also offer guidance as to how to meet Care Standards 3, 13 & 14.

Session 3: Meeting the Needs of Children
The aim of this session is to help you consider how you will meet the needs of children by planning routines and activities into your childminding day. This includes:

• Exploring the needs of children.
• Establishing a routine to meet the needs of more than one family.
• Planning what you are going to do with the children.
• Play opportunities in the community.
• Anti-bias approach.
• Caring for a child with special needs.
• The information provided in this session will help you complete Section 3 in the application form. It will also offer guidance on how to meet Care Standards 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 & 9.

Session 4: Environment
The aim of this session is to explore how you can provide for the safety and well-being of the children in your care. This includes:

• Carrying out risk assessment on your home and garden.
• Choosing and maintaining equipment.
• Safety issues away from your home - travelling by car, outings, etc.
• Fire safety, developing and practising an escape plan.
• Establishing and maintaining good standards of hygiene in all areas of work.
• Family pets.
• Positive Behaviour Management.
• The information provided in this session will help you complete Section 3 & 5 in the application form. It will also offer guidance as to how to meet Care Standards 2 & 3.

Session 5: Raising Awareness of Child Protection and Emergency First Aid
The aim of the first part of this session is to explore the issue of child protection and what this means to you in your role as childminder. This includes:

• What is child protection?
• The different types of abuse.
• What you should do.
• This is an awareness raising exercise, and you are advised to attend a more in depth training session once you have completed your registration process.

The aim of the second part of this session is to highlight the need to be aware of emergency first aid procedures. This includes:

• What to do in an emergency.
• Contacting parents.
• Keeping accident reports.
• This is an introductory session, and again it is advised that you undertake a certificated First Aid Course once you have completed your registration process.

The information provided in this session will help you complete Section 3 In the application form. It will also offer guidance as to how you would meet Care Standards 2 & 3.

Session 6: Partnership with Parents
The aim of this session is to explore the need to establish good relationships with parents from the beginning and to build parents confidence in your service. This includes:

• Initial contact with parents.
• Preparing for your first visit from parents.
• Acknowledging parents feelings and reassuring them about settling-in arrangements.
• How to negotiate and agree a contract with parents.
• Develop an effective way of exchanging information with parents.
• Encourage parents to ask questions and offer information about their children.

The information provided in this session will help you complete Section 3 in the application form. It will also offer guidance as to how you would meet Care Standards 1, 3, 7 & 8.

On completion of this training programme, you will have a better understanding of what is involved in providing a quality, professional childminding service.

You should look on this training as the beginning of your professional development, and consider attending further relevant courses to up date your skills and knowledge.