How to become a childminder in Coventry

This is a brief introduction to what is involved in becoming a registered childminder in Coventry.

You need to pay your Council Tax to Coventry City Council to access direct support from the Early Years Service to help you through the registration process and beyond.

It is a legal requirement that childminders have sufficient understanding and use of English to ensure the wellbeing of the children in their care.

What is a registered childminder?

As a registered childminder you will look after one or more children under the age of 8 years, for more than a total of two hours a day, in your own home, for payment.

Childminders may care for a maximum of six children under the age of eight at any one time. Of these six children, a maximum of three may be young children, and there should only be one child under the age of one.

You will work to various legal requirements and be inspected by Ofsted to ensure you provide a safe and stimulating environment for the children that you care for.

Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

The Statutory Framework is standards that childminders must meet for the learning, development, and care of children from birth to 5.

Running your own business

You will be self-employed and running your own business. Hours are flexible and you can work full or part-time depending on your family commitments.

Becoming a registered childminder in Coventry

The first step is to watch this informative video which outlines the process and the next steps on how to register as a childminder.

If you wish to proceed to the next step, you will need to contact the Coventry Early Years Service using the contact details at the end of the video.

Childminder Start-up Grants

The Childminder Start-up Grant Scheme is now open for applications. The scheme will support new childminders by providing them with grant funding, helping childminders with the cost of setting up their own businesses. Please note: This grant will close on 31st March 2025

The Childminder Start-up Grants Scheme will be available to all new childminders who have completed their registration on or after 15 March 2023. Individuals who have previously been registered as childminders and wish to re-register into the sector may also apply for the scheme.

There must be at least a 12-month gap between the date of the previous registration being cancelled and the new registration being finalised.

• Application process
• How to use the application system
• Eligibility criteria
• Start-up grant frequently asked questions