We would like to extend a warm welcome to those who will be attending the SCMA Annual Conference 2018: Reach for the Stars on Saturday 29 September at the Grand Central Hotel. A packed schedule of activities is planned for the event which include excellent presentations, superb workshops, ‘Market Place’ exhibitors and - of course - great food.
Maree Todd MSP, Minister for Children and Young People will deliver the Opening Address and commenting on this appearance Maggie Simpson, Chief Executive of SCMA said: “I’m so pleased that the Minister is able to join us at the conference to address delegates on the commitment of the Scottish Government to almost doubling the provision of funded Early Learning and Childcare whilst highlighting the essential role that childminders must play in achieving these ambitious plans. This is a subject which of course is close to the hearts of many childminders in Scotland who I am sure are looking forward to hearing directly from the Minister at the conference.”
The Opening Address will be followed by a Keynote Speech from Carol Craig, Author and Chief Executive of the Centre for Confidence and Well-being. Carol will address delegates on the topic of confidence and her ideas on fostering the wellbeing and resilience of young people. “We need childminders to be confident that they have the right skills, knowledge and understanding to provide high-quality childcare,” added Maggie. “So, I’m sure everyone will find the Keynote Speech by Carol both motivating and inspiring.”
Childminders have a key role to play in Early Learning and Childcare expansion plans so the conference has been designed to look more in-depth at how to embrace change and Reach for the Stars. As such the workshops have been carefully structured to be creative, hands-on and innovative focusing on practical ideas of how to embrace change and step outside of that comfort zone. All come with Certificates of Attendance to support Continuous Professional Learning and the conference itself is Open Badged.
In the afternoon a very special session is planned to celebrate The Year of Young People 2018 and the difference childminders have made to children’s lives across Scotland. A few very special young people have helped to plan this session with us and we look forward to welcoming them on stage.