This resource was developed around the concept of the reflective practitioner and is designed for use by childminders with 6-12 months practice experience. The resource guides childminders through the process of self-assessment and reflects Care Standards 12,13 and 14

The Scheme of Excellence offers childminders the opportunity to develop the quality of their service by becoming involved in their own personal continuous development. By encouraging and motivating childminders to reflect and evaluate their current working practice in line with the National Care Standards, good practice will be clearly illustrated.

Childminders come to learning with various needs and at various levels of readiness, The Scheme of Excellence Supported Study Programme offers childminders a framework to enable then to complete this award.

Self-Directed Study
The self-directed study option gives an opportunity for childminders to carry out an audit of their understanding of their role in line with the National Care Standards

Supported Learning
In response to demand, we have developed a supported study programme to assist childminders working through the Scheme of Excellence pack. This has the advantage of allowing childminders to come together and benefit from group discussions led by an experienced SCMA Tutor. This gives the childminder a better focus to their studies and more confidence in sharing experiences with others.

Links with National Qualifications
The Scheme of Excellence is a recognised award, credit-rated and levelled within the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework. It sits at Level 6 within the framework with 10 credits. By successfully completing the award, childminders will have illustrated their understanding of good practice in relation to the Care Standards and National Occupational Standards.

The work undertaken within the Scheme of Excellence contributes towards underpinning knowledge required for SVQ's in Childrens Care Learning and Development Level 3 and is cross-referenced to the award.

What is involved?
To achieve the newly accredited SCQF award childminders must achieve the required learning outcomes by:

• Attending a series of 10 supported-study sessions.
• Completing the self-directed study pack.
• Completing and returning the four unit assignments.
• Providing evidence of the key tasks and outputs as described within the pack.
• Signing a declaration stating that the work submitted is their own produced as a result of reflective practice in relation to their current childminding practice.

Who Do I Contact To Find Out More?
Check with your SCMA Childminding Development Officer or Regional Team Manager to find out if this award will be available within your local area. Alternatively you can contact SCMA Head Office on 01786 445377 or our helpline on 01786 449063.