We know being a childminder can be isolating and tough. Alongside the daily care and nurturing, you’re constantly tackling the complex needs of the children and families in your care, while juggling the pressure of ever-changing Early Years statutory requirements and funding models.
We know sometimes it feels like you are trying to balance childminding with your family life, and it can feel like you cannot be managing both as well as you would like.
You can access up to 3 free online sessions over a 6-month period with your allocated connector, funded by the Stronger Practice Hub. These will be arranged on an individual basis, during a day or evening that suits you.
The connector sessions provide a dedicated space for you to reflect on your work, explore challenges, and celebrate successes. Think of it as a confidential, non-judgmental space to talk through anything on your mind, from tricky behaviours to parental relationships or even just the daily pressures of the job.
Our experienced childminder connectors are here to support you in confidential supervision sessions.
What you’ll get from connector sessions:
- A safe, confidential space to talk
- Support in managing difficult situations
- Space to reflect on your own well-being
- A chance to celebrate your achievements
- Opportunities for professional and personal growth
- Time to reflect on how to improve outcomes for children
- Support to access resources and further training
Ready to find out more?
Fill out the Expression of Interest Form today to take the first step toward feeling more supported in your role.
The Stronger Practice Hub will review your request and allocate a supervisor, who will be in touch in due course.
There might be a short waiting time, depending on demand.
Meet the Team
Caroline Vans
Hi, I am the Childminder Network Lead for the Bristol and Beyond Stronger Practice hub. I also work for Gloucestershire County Council as an Early Years Quality Improvement Lead supporting childminders. I love my job because I can visit and support so many amazing settings. I will always advocate for childminders, as I believe they provide young children with what they need from childcare. Previously, I was a childminder for 9 years, and I completed an MA in Early Years Education based on research from my own setting. I was an area lead and mentor during the DFE childminder mentor programme and achieved outstanding at my last Ofsted inspection. I have also worked in children’s centres for many years. I am passionate about supporting children with their emotional well-being and creativity skills. I have two children of my own and love a spa day with friends and a holiday in the sun.
Katherine Walsh
I am a fully qualified and experienced teacher-turned childminder working in Wiltshire. I’m passionate about providing quality home-from-home Early Years education personalised to each child. I am proud to have been graded ‘Ofsted Outstanding’ in both of my inspections, but I am even more excited to share in the wonder and joy of a child’s earliest years.
At my setting, we plan in the moment and go with the flow, whether that involves flying kites on a windy day, mapping the Budapest Metro system or planting seeds and watching them grow. We have lots of muddy fun at our allotment and explore locally too – my classroom has definitely expanded and I love it!
I am also aware of the challenges facing the Early Years sector, and how tough some days can be. I have worked with a range of providers as a Mentor on the Covid-19 recovery programme, and I work with the Bristol Stronger Practice Hub, where I continue to provide support to other childcare professionals.
Janine Haenel
I’m a Level 3 Early Years Educator with a BA (Hons) in Childhood Studies and SENCO training. For 13 years, I’ve been childminding (twice Outstanding), and even spent time as a DfE mentor supporting other childminders post-Covid.
Together with my husband, I run our setting — a warm, home-from-home environment where children grow through nature play, outdoor adventures, Montessori/Froebel-inspired learning, and the development of real-life skills. We’re committed to nurturing relationships and creating lasting memories.
Originally from Germany, I incorporate bits of language and culture into our daily lives. Beyond childminding, I love reading, travelling, and swinging glow sticks at my weekly clubbercise class!
Emma Hagan
Emma is a Childminder based in the Wiltshire area, managing a large rural setting with a team of 3 assistants, with a move on the horizon to expand to Childcare on non-domestic premises. Emma brings over 13 years of childminding experience (rated Outstanding), a degree in Early Years, previous experience in mentoring/coaching for the DfE/EYITT and supporting apprenticeship programmes over the last 10 years.
Her previous career in Sales and Marketing utilises commercial and business skills that can be easily transferred to running a successful business.
If you are looking for help with confidence, business skills or new ideas, you won’t meet a more friendly, energetic and supportive person to help you along your way.
Tina Pipe
I have 17 years’ experience as a childminder and am proud to have achieved Outstanding in my last two Ofsted inspections. I’m passionate about helping every child feel happy, confident, and supported to reach their full potential, with a particular focus on children with SEND.
My commitment to inclusive early years care led me to train as an Early Years SENDCO Practitioner. Through the Department for Education Covid-19 recovery programme and in partnership with the Bristol Stronger Practice Hub, I have mentored and supported other childminders to grow in confidence and strengthen the quality of education they provide.
I have also shared my experience with HM Government via my local MP, which led to me receiving a Childcare Champion Award and visiting Downing Street to collect it. I am deeply committed to supporting families and fellow professionals, maintaining high standards in early years care, and creating welcoming, inclusive environments where every child can thrive.
