5. Oldham Childminding Mentor and Buddy Scheme
The scheme is a partnership. It is between a childminder (called the Buddy), a fully qualified and experienced Childminder (called the Mentor), and Oldham Local Authority.
The aim of the scheme is:
- to improve childminding quality. This will be done through mentor/buddy support. The mentors will work with existing childminders who have outstanding or good practice.
- to promote an ethos of mentoring, support and sharing good practice
The Mentor - Buddy Code of Practice
The Code of Practice is important. It ensures a professional and steady approach to working together. It also ensures working to the same best standards.
The Mentor will;
- make initial contact with the buddy
- support them in developing best practice
- discuss a support plan
- maintain confidentiality between themselves and the Buddy Partner unless there is a safeguarding issue
- the Buddy receives 2 visits. The first is to the mentor's place to see the enabling environment. The second is to the Buddy's home.
The Mentor cannot guarantee and/or be held responsible for the following:
- the childminders grading by Ofsted
- how soon the childminder will obtain business
- promoting the childminders business
The Buddy Partner will:
- reply to the initial contact
- maintain contact with the mentor as agreed together
- maintain confidentiality at all times especially when visiting the mentor’s setting unless there is a safeguarding issue
- be a good timekeeper when visiting the mentor’s setting
- hold a valid and recent enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Certificate
- be responsible for the developments that take place following the support received