Thinking About Becoming a Childminder in Carmarthenshire
Childminding is a rewarding career that allows you to work from home, be your own boss, and make a real difference in children’s lives.
Whether you’re looking for a change of career or returning to work after a break, our Carmarthenshire Family Information Service Childcare Team can guide you every step of the way.
What Does a Childminder Do?
Childminders provide high-quality, flexible childcare in their own home for children from birth to age 12 (most commonly under 8). They offer a safe, stimulating, and caring environment, helping children learn through play and everyday activities.
Why Choose Childminding?
Access business and training support from your local authority
Work from home and choose your hours
Be there for your own family while earning an income
Make a difference to local children and families
Develop your skills and gain recognised qualifications
What You’ll Need
In Wales, anyone caring for children under the age of 8 for more than 2 hours a day for payment must register with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW). To do this, you’ll need:
⮚ Complete a Briefing Session:
Complete a briefing session: You can book onto a Corum PACEY Cymru online briefing session below.
Email Corum PACEY Cymru: cymru@corampacey.org.uk
https://www.pacey.org.uk/careers-in-childcare/childminders/becoming-a-childminder-in-wales/#Briefingsession
⮚ Complete a Pre-Registration Course:
Complete units 326 Introduction to home-based childcare (IHC) and 327 Preparing for Childminding Practice (PCP).
These are worth 10 credits towards full Level 3 Diploma in Children’s Care Play Learning and Development.
To become a registered Childminder you will need to pass both units.
Financial support will be offered to those who are considering becoming a childminder. Anyone interested will need to meet the criteria and adhere to Terms and Conditions of the funding available. Please email ChildrenInfo@carmarthenshire.gov.uk for further information.
⮚ A recognised home-based childcare course
Childminder pre-registration training package comprises of Unit 326 Introduction to home-based childcare (IHC), and Unit 327 Preparing for childminder practice (PCP). Or equivalent (could do a drop down that when they click on this either it gives the content of each of the courses or a link https://www.corampacey.org.uk/training-and-qualifications/training-in-wales/home-based-childcare-training-in-wales/ )
You will also need:
⮚ Paediatric First Aid certificate
⮚ Safeguarding and Food Safety training
⮚ An Enhanced DBS check for yourself and household members aged 16+
⮚ A safe and suitable home environment
⮚ Policies and procedures that meet the National Minimum Standards for Regulated Childcare
The Support We Offer
Our Carmarthenshire Childminding Development Officer Sera Scott can:
- Explain the registration process with CIW
- Help you access training and funding for the IHC & PCP training.
- Visit your home to advise on setting up your environment
- Link you with experienced childminders for peer support
- Provide ongoing business advice once you’re registered
Financial Help
You may be eligible for grants. Contact Carmarthenshire Family Information Service for details of support available.
Steps to Becoming a Childminder
- Contact our Childminding Development Officer for an informal chat
- Complete required training and DBS checks
- Prepare your home and write your Statement of Purpose
- Apply to register with Care Inspectorate Wales
- Launch your childminding business with our support
Hear from Local Childminders- Give an example e.g Yes, quote is great.
“Becoming a childminder gave me flexibility, independence, and the joy of seeing children grow and learn every day.” – Local Childminder,
Get Started Today
If you’re ready to start your journey or just want to find out more:
📞 Call: Sera Scott 01267-246563
📧 Email: SScott@carmarthenshire.gov.uk
