Getting References For Childcare
If I'm using a nursery how can I be sure it's reputable?
The best way to ensure a nursery is reputable is to check whether it's formally registered with Ofsted, and if it is you should have access to a recent report about the nursery and about it's standards, and about how it operates. This is the most reliable information. You should also check out with other parents and seek references from a nursery before you use it.
How do I go about getting references for a nanny?
If you're using a nanny agency, it would be normal for the nanny agency to provide references to you as you're making your decision on choosing a nanny. If you're going to employ a nanny directly yourself, you should ask the nanny to provide references . The best thing is to go directly to parents who've used that nanny and speak to them and not just rely on any written information.
What should I ask for when obtaining a reference?
If you're going to use a child minder, it's always best to use a registered child minder, and that way you can get full information on their experience and qualifications from Ofstead. You'll be able to do this at a local level, and when you visit the child minder, get full information about their qualifications.
How do I find out if a childminder is reputable?
The best way of finding out whether a childminder is reputable is to check if they're a registered childminder. If they are, they will have gone through a series of checks with Ofsted, and you'll be able to get a range of information about them and the premises that they use. Another good thing to look at is whether the childminder is a member of the National Childminding Association, which provides support and training and a lot of networks for childminders. If they're a member of the NCMA, you can be very sure that they are a childminder of a good standard.
