How many children can I look after?
A childminder can care for a maximum of six children under eight years old, of which usually no more than three may be under the age of five, and no more than one of these may be under one (although Ofsted may grant an exception, for example, for twins).
These numbers will include the childminder's own children. Childminders can also care for additional children over eight but they will have to demonstrate to Ofsted that they can meet the varying needs of all children being cared for.
The available space will also impact on the number of children you can care for. EYFS states childminders 'must meet the following indoor space requirements. Children under two years: 3.5 m2 per child; Two year olds: 2.5 m2 per child; Children aged three to five years: 2.3 m2 per child'.
How much will I get paid?
Childminders are self-employed and are able to set their charges themselves as there is no national rate. However, from September 2024, 15 hours of government funded places were introduced for babies (eligible the term after they turn 9 months) of working parents, and for 2 year olds of working parents. (Previously funding had only been available for ‘disadvantaged’ 2 year olds, 3 and 4 year olds. Funding covers 38 weeks a year (term-time).
From September 2025, funded hours increase to 30 per week for working families from the term after the baby turns 9 months until school age.
Hackney childminders charge approximately £8 to £12 per hour. Parents will pay you directly for all the non-funded hours you provide, and you will claim government funding through Hackney council.
As you will be self-employed you will be responsible for your own tax and national insurance contributions.
Can I choose the hours I work?
Yes you can, however the more flexible hours you offer to families, the more likely you will get work. Working parents who are eligible for Government funding are likely to want you to offer the full entitlement. However some parents prefer shared care and education for their child, using some of their entitlement with a childminder and some at another early years setting.
Can I look after my children at the same time?
Yes you can. Any of your own children under eight years will be taken into consideration in the numbers of children you can care for.
Can I work with someone else?
Yes you can work with up to four Assistants or Co-Childminders. If you have enough space you could care for more children if you work with an Assistant or a Co-Childminder. When deciding to care for additional children you must check if you need planning permission to run a business from your home. if you decide to employ assistants you must ensure you register with HMRC as an employer, and follow the guidance on pay, terms and conditions.
I don’t have a garden can I still be a childminder?
Yes that is fine. You do not need to have a garden, as long as children are taken out daily e.g. local park, children centre outdoor space. The EYFS states childminders 'must provide access to an outdoor play area or, if that is not possible, ensure that outdoor activities are planned and taken on a daily basis.'
Do I need to have a DBS?
All childminders are required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and to join the DBS update service. Everyone else aged 16 or over, who lives or works in the premises where the childminding will take place, is also required to undergo a DBS check and join the update service.
You are advised to apply as early as possible as DBS checks can take some months to come through. To start the process you will need to go through the Ofsted site and click on DBS and update service.
Questions to ask before considering working as a childminder
- Do you want to work from home?
- Are you IT literate?
- Are you willing to be flexible with the hours you work?
- Could you provide a range of planned stimulating activities?
- Are you energetic, caring and resourceful?
- Would you enjoy working with parents to ensure you meet their child's needs?
- Would you be able to talk to parents about concerns about their children?
- Are interested in caring for a child with additional needs, such as a disability or behavioural difficulties?
- What effect will it have on your family?