EYPS Validation pathway case study: Lisa Webb (childminder)

I was awarded EYPS after following the validation pathway which was part-time over three months. I completed the EYPS written tasks in the evenings and during weekends as I work full time as an accredited childminder. Having completed the programme and attained the award, I was very glad that I persevered - although there were a few occasions where I thought of giving up!

In terms of the award influencing my day to day childminding practice - I'm not sure it has yet, but I am sure it will. EYPS is more about leading and supporting others and it was through training for EYPS that I was able to take on the role of Foundation Stage Cluster Coordinator for Early Years settings in Brentwood. I feel that in this role, I am facilitating the sharing of best practice between private, voluntary and independent settings and so hopefully, helping to raise standards. Also, I am now mentoring and assessing Phase 2 EYPS candidates and this, I feel, is good for my professional development for when I choose to embark on a different career pathway. So, in conclusion, EYPS for me has opened up many more doors of opportunity and is recognition of my transition to early years education.

By the way there are now two longer routes (over 6 months and 15 months) if you don't feel you can manage to complete it within the 3 months validation route. I would encourage any childminders who have the opportunity to lead other practitioners, e.g. through childminder networks or by training and leading an assistant, to think seriously about working towards EYPS. We are professionals, in an important professional role, and gaining EYPS is a way of raising the profile or our work and letting others know the quality of practice.