Following the recent Early Learning and Childcare Workforce Review, of which SCMA was closely involved, the Scottish Government has asked the Care Inspectorate to lead a project to develop a framework to reinforce the quality of childminding in Scotland today.
All childminders in Scotland will have now received an email from the Care Inspectorate explaining how to get involved in developing the project, which aims to recognise the value of the unique form of childcare provided by professional childminders.
It aims to establish a learning and development pathway which will take a potential childminder from induction to career professional. SCMA already offers induction training for potential childminders to ensure they are well-equipped with the knowledge and tools required to provide a quality childminding service.
SCMA overwhelmingly supports the introduction of this Learning Pathway as we are keen to see more recognition for childminders and the invaluable service they provide for children and their families, especially within the Early Learning and Childcare workforce.
This project will also set out a framework to enhance the quality childminding, serving as a tool for childminders to help them develop their service, encourage reflective practice and enhance their own learning and development. Ultimately, this framework will help childminders evidence their commitment to providing a quality service for the children and families they care for.
SCMA is keen to reassure childminders that the Learning Pathway is not an additional requirement or a further demand on their workloads. The framework will improve recognition for childminders and help get better access to learning opportunities for those who wish to gain more knowledge or a qualification.
Childminders are also being asked to help develop this framework to ensure it meets your needs and is relevant and appropriate to your profession.
Your chance to get involved…
The Learning Pathway framework will set out quality statements which will be developed in partnership with childminders and use real life examples to demonstrate and celebrate the uniqueness of childminding as a professional childcare service.
The Project Lead, Tracey Joyce, is working alongside SCMA and looking for childminders who would like to be involved in this project by advising, commenting or taking part in focus groups.
The involvement of childminders in shaping this pathway will be key to its success. By telling us what potential childminders need to know you will help make this relevant and valuable.
If you would like to contribute, please contact
tracey.joyce@careinspectorate.com who will be in touch about how you can be involved.
SCMA is committed to supporting our member’s on-going learning and professional growth.
Login to the Membership Dashboard to book with Learn with SCMA, browse our Learning Library and add to your Learning Log.
p.s. Look out for a short survey from the Care Inspectorate in the next few weeks.