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Becoming a childminder

There's lots to think about before you take this step.

Setting up your very own childcare business can be an exciting and challenging proposition with lots of different elements that need to be right. But before we get to that, think about:

  • Whether you want to work from home?

  • Are you enthusiastic, energetic and have a desire to support children's individual needs and support their learning and development?

  • Do you enjoy the company of children? 

  • How will you store and allow children access to resources and toys in your home? 

  • Will you provide a customer focussed service? 

  • How will this fit into your own home life? 

If you need more information, time to think, or are unsure whether this is the career for you – why not book onto our virtual pre-registration briefing session now?

There are no set dates or times and you can watch the webinar in your own time to help you make the right the choice.

The virtual pre-recorded briefing session will also take you through the process to register with Ofsted as a childminder. After the session you have options to book one of our support packages to ensure that you have all the knowledge you need to become a childminder – we've got you covered! 

There is no charge to access the briefing. All you need to do is email earlyyearscentre@lancashire.gov.uk and include your full name, address and telephone number and request access. You will also have the opportunity to have an informal chat with a member of the team who can answer any questions you might have. 

Once you have watched the briefing, if you have further questions or need advice on your next steps, please contact our Pre-Registration Officer: earlyyearscentre@lancashire.gov.uk 

You may wish to purchase a package of support to help you becoming a childminder in Lancashire.  They have been designed so that you can choose the right level of support for you.  If you are happy to proceed without further advice, then please read the information below carefully before choosing your package and completing the application form, which is at the foot of this page.

Package One - £140

This support package is ideal if you are an experienced early years practitioner with a good understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework Requirements.   It includes:

  • Membership package including the portfolio with guidance documents and policy and procedure templates. Ongoing support to including visits from a member of the team.

  • Visit to your home/setting to 

    • check that you have made it safe and suitable for childminding and it fully meets the requirements for registration

    • test your knowledge and understanding to successfully pass your registration interview

Package Two - £190

This package is ideal for those new to working with young children and offers guided self-learning and a mentor to help you build your knowledge.  It will provide you with an understanding of the  Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework Requirements and how to meet these as a childminder.  This includes:

  • Membership package including the portfolio with guidance documents and policy and procedure templates. Ongoing support to including visits from a member the team.

  • Guidance for self-led learning using the eight chapters of the portfolio to build your knowledge, understanding and confidence to meet the requirements for registration as a childminder. Topics include:

    • Making your home safe

    • Writing policies

    • Managing behaviour

    • Supporting children's health

    • Supporting children's learning

    • Risk assessment

    • Planning activities

    • Working with parents

  • Ongoing support from your experienced and knowledgeable mentor to answer any questions and guide you.

  • Visit to your home/setting by your mentor to: 

    • check that you have made it safe and suitable for childminding and it fully meets the requirements for registration

    • test your knowledge and understanding to successfully pass your registration interview

Application form

Childminders are self-employed so you should visit Set up as self-employed (a 'sole trader') (Gov.UK) to find out what you need to do when you start working for yourself.  This also includes information on how to register for self-assessment with HM Revenue and Customs.

Further information and support is provided by HM Revenue and Customs (Gov.UK) including

  • Self-assessment help and deadlines

  • Record keeping (including free webinar)

  • Allowable Business Expenses

There is a ready reckoner (Gov.UK) to help you budget for your tax bill - 

The HMRC Business Income Manual (Gov.UK) sets out how much of your household bills, wear and tear on furnishings, food and drink and car expenses are 'allowable expenses' against your tax bill.

Business Smart

The government has funded PACEY to create business support and tools free to childminders and these can be found at Business Smart. Although most are free, some are only available to PACEY members.

Childcare Choices

Childcare Choices Understand the Government help with childcare costs for parents and your role in this.

If you are interested in becoming a childminder, we have a dedicated and experienced team who can help you to achieve your ambition.

To access the free briefing session, or for further information please contact the Early Years Professional Development Centre:

Email:  EarlyYearsCentre@lancashire.gov.uk 

Tel: 01772 539 058