Monday November 4th 2024
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Luke Jackson
It’s Scottish Careers Week from 11th – 15th November and if you’ve been dreaming about finding a new career that provides freedom, flexibility and fits around your own family – childminding could be for you!
With a fantastic package of support available in Midlothian, including a start-up grant – there’s no better time to consider this new, rewarding career working with children.
The Programme for Scotland’s Childminding Future (PSCF), funded by Scottish Government and delivered by the Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA), includes a support package of a minimum £750 start-up grant, training and one-to-one support and is a fantastic opportunity to get started. Currently available in 17 local authority areas, including Midlothian, those interested in finding out more are invited to find out by attending free, online ‘Discover Childminding’ events running across Scottish Careers Week to hear more about the benefits of this flexible career.
Life is busy and finding time between family and other commitments is hard – we get it! Sessions are taking place at different times across Careers Week to increase the likelihood of being able to attend. You can meet the SCMA team and ask any questions you may have about becoming a childminder and hear from others who have made the switch and are now running their own thriving childminding business.
These free online events will take place in November on Monday 11th at 10.00am, Wednesday 13th at 7.00 pm and Saturday 16th at 10am. Visit www.childminding.org/getstarted to find out how to register to attend and for more information on how to become a childminder.
Did you know that more professional childminders are needed all over Scotland? Families are increasingly recognising the benefits of this high-quality childcare and there is demand for additional childminding provision throughout communities. Childminders enjoy the flexibility of being able to run their own business from home and earning an income, often combining this with bringing up their own children.
Tina Mackeller is a new childminder and got started with support from SCMA: “Professional childminding has provided a completely new way of living for myself and my family. I get to combine this new career working with children, which I love, with also working part-time as a celebrant. It’s the perfect balance for me and I’d thoroughly recommend anyone thinking about starting their own childminding business to go for it.”
No previous childcare experience is required – but it’s absolutely essential to have a passion for working with children and supporting their learning and development. Professional childminders also undertake ongoing development throughout their career to ensure the highest of standards within their childminding setting – so there’s lots of opportunity to learn new skills and for career growth.
Graeme McAlister, Chief Executive, Scottish Childminding Association, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for people considering getting back into work, or looking for a change of career that provides a better work / life balance, to access a wealth of support in setting up their own childminding business and to begin a whole new career.”
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