Early Years looks after childcare

MORE than 60 per cent of the borough’s childminders have been praised for taking advantage of special training from Oldham’s Early Years services.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) has been mandatory for all schools and early years providers which get inspected by Ofsted, since September.

The aim is to improve outcomes for children and reduce inequalities.

The next sessions, which are free, will be held on February 14, 2009.

So far, 63 per cent of childminders, 151 of them, have also had a full day’s training provided by Oldham’s Early Intervention and Prevention Service.

In addition, 98 childminders have had additional training for specific parts of the the EYFS, which is being offered in February.

Maria Greenwood, the service head, said: “We feel this is a fantastic response and indicates the high level of commitment which Oldham’s childminders have in ensuring they offer high quality care and education to the children in their care.

“Feedback has been positive and has helped to shape future developments.”

Oldham Council’s Cabinet member for children, young people and families, Councillor Kay Knox, added: “When parents choose Early Years services they want to know that provision will keep their children safe and help them to thrive. The EYFS is the framework that provides that assurance.”

The service says it will identify further training and target childminders who are due an inspection, to ensure they are confident and competent with the new EYFS framework.

Individuals can also get help from the childminder improvement and sustainability officers.

To book a place, contact Chrissie Leonard, Early Intervention and Prevention Service, 0161-770 1808.