GovWire

About the programme

The childminder mentor programme offers bespoke support to childminders across England. Experienced early years professionals will support childminders to help children recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes narrowing the gap between disadvantaged children and others.

Trained early years professionals will provide support to childminders in the roles of area lead and mentor. Area leads and mentors may support childminders to:

• identify strengths and areas for development
• improve your confidence in or knowledge of child development
• implement the early years foundation stage (EYFS) statutory framework
• plan an effective curriculum
• support children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
• support children with English as an additional language (EAL)
• build strong relationships with parents and carers

Who can apply

Childminders mustcurrentlybe providing childcare to at least one child aged between 0 to 5.

You can apply for support as an individual, or with other childminders as part of a small group (of up to 4 people). If you apply as an individual, youll be placed in a group with others.

What youll get

Youll get support and advice from mentors who have at least 3 years experience in the childminder sector. Youll also have an opportunity to network with other childminders in your area who are part of the programme.

Support is free and will be mainly virtual. If suitable, there will be an option to meet face-to-face.

If your application is successful, the support will start in May 2023.

Youll get up to 4 days of support to childminders over one term. The 4 days will be split into hours, to suit the mentor and the childminders they are supporting.

Contact us

Email any queries about the childminder mentor programme to: eoi.EYRECOVERY@education.gov.uk.

How well use your data

The privacy notice for early years COVID recovery experts and mentors programme (PDF, 137 KB, 4 pages)explains how we will use your information.