From 1 September 2008 childminders were able to complete a self-evaluation form from Ofsted to support their inspection.  It is not compulsory to complete the form, and you can use your own version if you prefer.

You can complete the SEF online, and you will be given a unique password from Ofsted (Ofsted Security Token) and guidance on how to complete the form.

It is recommended that childminders complete a SEF for several reasons, including:

• The SEF is viewed by your Ofsted Inspector before your inspection, and gives you the opportunity to record your practice in your own time
• Use the SEF as an ongoing  tool to reflect and evaluate your practice and make plans for improvements
• The inspector will be able to plan areas to focus on during their visit, which should mean a shorter inspection
• The SEF should also be a way to celebrate your childminding and really sell yourself!

NCMA with support from the Children’s Workforce Development Council, has produced a resource to help childminders learn more about being self-reflective.  It is hoped that this will boost childminder’s confidence when examining their own practice.  This download  is available free on the NCMA website:

www.ncma.org.uk/sef

Further guidance is available from the National Childminding Association website, offering advice for childminders.  This includes:

            Inspection under the EYFS in England- what to expect

            When will the inspector call?

            What happens during an inspection?

            How long will it take?

            What grades are there?

            How can childminders be prepared?  Including a link to the self-evaluation form

You may wish to list your portfolio around the five Every Child Matters Outcomes:

• Staying safe
• Being healthy
• Enjoy and achieve
• Making a positive contribution
• Achieve economic wellbeing