Childcare Useful Links

Social Care Social Work Improvement Scotland (Care Inspectorate)

In order to operate an early years or childcare service (e.g. day nursery or childminder) in Scotland the provider must be registered with the Care Inspectorate.  The Care Inspectorate carries out its own set of inspections every year ensuring the health, safety and quality standards expected are being met.

Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC)

 From October 2006, staff working in the early years and childcare sector were eligible to register with the SSSC (starting with managers).  To be on the register a member of staff needs to have, or be working towards, an appropriate qualification.  

Child Tax and Working Tax Credits

You may be able to get help with the cost of childcare.  The Inland Revenue's site explains the Tax Credits and has a calculator which will help you work out how much you could be entitled to, and will allow you to apply online.

Learning Teaching Scotland

Learning and Teaching Scotland is the lead organisation for the development and support of the Scottish curriculum.  They work with the Scottish Government and education authorities to take forward the national education improvement agenda.

Scottish Childminding Association

The Scottish Childminding Association provides advice and support for new and established childminders and clear step by step guidance on how to become a registered childminder.  SCMA have a central headquarters in Stirling to coordinate its national activities.

Scottish Government

The devolved government for Scotland is responsible for most of the issues of day-to-day concern to the people of Scotland, including health, education, justice, rural affairs, and transport.