Sophie
Childminder in Stockton-on-Tees (also available for babysitting)
Female Member since Apr 2025 Last Updated Apr 2025 Last Login 15 Apr 2025
This Childminder has told us that they are awaiting registration by their regulator. You should not use their services until you are satisfied that they can lawfully operate.
My Summary
About Me
Hello,
My name is Sophie, and I’m an Ofsted Registered Childminder based in Hartburn, Stockton-on-Tees. I live with my partner Zac, a qualified primary school teacher, in a detached home with a spacious garden and a dedicated playroom that’s been thoughtfully set up to encourage learning through play, creativity, and exploration.
Our home offers a welcoming and nurturing environment where children feel safe, settled, and inspired. The playroom is packed with a wide variety of resources and activities that spark curiosity and allow each child to follow their own interests. No two days are ever the same—learning happens naturally through play, conversation, and hands-on experiences.
We’re lucky to be within walking distance of both Ropner Park and Preston Park, where we spend lots of time exploring. Whether we’re feeding the ducks, going on seasonal nature walks, having a picnic, or enjoying an adventure trail, the outdoors plays a big part in our daily routine. These trips give children the chance to discover the world around them in a fun, active way, and help bring learning to life.
As a driver with my own car and a clean licence, I also plan regular outings to other nature spots and places of interest. I’m passionate about giving children the chance to learn and grow in a variety of environments, helping them build confidence, develop independence, and most importantly—have fun.
We have a playroom in our setting. Our playroom is a warm and inviting space designed to inspire creativity, exploration, and a love of learning. We offer a wide variety of authentic wooden toys and other resources that encourage open-ended play and stimulate imagination. The playroom is carefully arranged to align with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, providing opportunities for children to develop across all areas of learning. Whether it’s building with blocks, engaging in role play, exploring sensory materials, or delving into arts and crafts, our playroom is filled with activities that nurture curiosity and independence. It’s a space where children can feel safe, supported, and excited to learn through play. We also have a quiet room, next to our playroom, for children who may need to nap during the day.
The garden is equipped with a variety of play equipment and resources to support physical development, from climbing and balancing to running and playing games. The communal green space offers even more room for imaginative adventures and group activities. We believe in the importance of outdoor play for children’s well-being and aim to get outside in all weathers, encouraging resilience and a connection with nature. Whether it’s splashing in puddles, building dens, or enjoying a sunny picnic, our outdoor space is perfect for active and engaging learning experiences to develop gross motor and critical thinking skills.
My Experience
I am passionate about nurturing young minds and inspiring a love of learning in the early years. My journey into early childhood education began at Teesside University, where I graduated in 2019 with a BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies. During my studies, I gained valuable experience working in a day nursery and as an EYFS Teaching Assistant through a supply agency.
These experiences solidified my ambition to become an EYFS teacher, and I went on to complete a PGCE with Qualified Teacher Status in Primary Education, specialising in ages 3-7 at Sheffield Hallam University and Stockton-on-Tees Teacher Training Partnership. My teacher training placements allowed me to work with children in both the EYFS and Year 2. After qualifying as a teacher in 2023, I spent the past year as a Primary School Teacher, a role I thoroughly enjoyed.
However, I have always dreamed of becoming a Childminder to provide a more personalised approach to early years care and education. I am currently in the pre-registration stage with Ofsted and I am excited to embark on this new chapter. I am Paediatric First Aid trained, hold a DBS check on the update service, and participate in regular safeguarding training to ensure the safety and well-being of the children in my care.
I look forward to creating a nurturing, engaging, and joyful environment where children can thrive and develop a lifelong love of learning.
My Qualifications
I have a BA (Hons) Degree in Early Childhood Education from Teesside University.
I have a degree in Primary Education (3-7) with PGCE & Qualified Teacher Status from Sheffield Hallam University.
I am Paediatric First Aid trained.
I have Safeguarding training.
My Availability
I am available Monday - Friday 7:30 - 5:30. We offer flexible shift pattern cover where possible. We will be open during term time and most school holidays. No charge will be made for the days we are unable to work. We will be closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and News Years Day. If any other requests are needed, please just ask and we will ensure to meet your needs as best we can.
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Before School | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no |
| Morning | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no |
| Afternoon | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no |
| After School | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no |
| Evening | no | no | no | no | no | no | no |
| Overnight | no | no | no | no | no | no | no |
| Last Updated: 15/04/2025 | |||||||
My Fees
- Babysitting from £10.00 per hour
- Childminding from £5.50 per hour
Our childcare fees are set at £55 per full day, covering care from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. This fee includes breakfast, snacks, and drinks throughout the day. If you require additional hours outside of these times, they are charged at £5.50 per hour.
Funding is available to support eligible families. From September 2025, Children aged 9 months to 5 years with working parents can receive up to 30 hours of free childcare per week. Additionally, families receiving certain benefits may qualify for 15 hours of free childcare per week for children aged 2 to 5 years. Please speak with us for further details on eligibility and how to apply.
Our fees also cover a wide range of activities and experiences to support your child’s development. This includes access to play and art resources, exciting days out, visits to soft play centres, and engaging classes to enhance learning and social skills. We strive to provide a fun, stimulating, and enriching environment for all children in our care.
My Local Schools
This childminder has not yet informed us whether or not they provide any drop off or pick up services at local schools.
My Documents
- UK Driving Licence (added 13/04/2025)
- UK Passport (added 13/04/2025)
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This profile has been produced from information provided to us by the user. We have not verified or confirmed the accuracy of any of the information and members should undertake their own vigorous checks and references. Please ensure you read our Safety Advice and information on how to Check Childcare Provider Documents.
