Catherine Thomson

1. To improve outcomes for children, the childminder should have strong quality assurance processes in place. This should include, but is not limited to, becoming familiar with best practice guidance to support self-evaluation and ongoing improvement. The childminder should also create an aims and objectives statement that explains the vision and values of their service. This would help guide their practice and support families in making informed decisions about their child’s care. This is to ensure that care and support is consistent with the Health and Social Care Standards (HSCS) which state that: 'I benefit from a culture of continuous improvement, with the organisation having robust and transparent quality assurance processes' (HSCS 4.19). and 'I use a service and organisation that are well led and managed' (HSCS 4.23).

1. To improve outcomes for children, the childminder should engage in ongoing training and professional development. This should include, but is not limited to, child protection training and professional reading relevant to the early years sector. These efforts would enhance their skills, support their role, and benefit the children in their care. This is to ensure that care and support is consistent with the Health and Social Care Standards (HSCS) which state that: 'I have confidence in people because they are trained, competent and skilled, are able to reflect on their practice and follow their professional and organisational codes' (HSCS 3.14).