The start of a lifelong career
Dr Margaret Simms from Bilsthorpe in Nottinghamshire found
being a childminder opened doors to a career in childcare which, so
far, has spanned 25 years.
She has gone through various early years and childcare roles,
ending up as an Early Years Consultant and gaining a Doctorate
along the way. Margaret felt inspired to tell NCMA why childminders
and nannies should really celebrate their national week and feel
proud of their profession.
"Like many mums, and some dads, childminding was for me, a way
of earning a little extra money when my children were young. Little
did I know that looking after other people's children in my own
home would open doors I never imagined I could walk through.
"Nowadays childminding has become a career in its own right. I
hope that in National Childminding Week many of you will have
reflected on your amazing contributions to the care and education
of our precious young children."
National Childminding Week runs from 4-11
June. This year’s theme is Aspiration, and during the week NCMA
will be highlighting the great work registered childminders and
nannies do in helping children to consider their future
aspirations.
The week will also celebrate the aspirations of registered
childminders and nannies in increasing their professional
development and future career opportunities.