Look for childcare

Childminders are self-employed to offer childcare in their own homes (rather than in the child's home). Most offer services to both under fives and school-aged children, although some specialise in a particular age group.

They are registered and inspected by Ofsted.

Many parents choose a childminder as they need additional flexibility due to their work patterns or so that their child will be cared for in a small group in a home environment.

Childminders choose their own working hours but, in Swindon, they're strongly encouraged to offer flexible services to parents including:

  • early mornings
  • late evenings
  • overnight stays
  • weekends
  • bank holidays
  • times to accommodate shift patterns

Home childcarers

These differ from childminders as they are registered by Ofsted to provide childcare in the child's home.

Parents employing a home childcarer have responsibilities as employers, for matters such as appropriate insurance and PAYE.

Further information

If you are looking for information about how to become a registered childminder in Swindon, please see the Early Years Hub website.

If  you are looking for a local childcare provider, visit our Family Information Directory.

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