When working with children and young people under the age of 18, it is crucial to hold an Enhanced DBS certificate and, equally importantly, ensure that it is registered with the DBS Update Service. Having helped professionals obtain DBS checks for over 25 years, I am continually surprised by how many people are not advised to join the Update Service when they receive their certificate through an employer, whether that is a nursery, school, college, or other childcare setting

Welcoming a new-born into a family is a moment filled with joy, excitement, and often uncertainty. Many new parents have little or no experience caring for a baby, which can leave them feeling overwhelmed in those first crucial weeks. As a nanny, child carer, or parent you have a unique opportunity to grow your skills and make a real difference by becoming a maternity nanny. This role allows you to support new families with confidence, guiding them through the early days of p

Teamwork is often described as the key to success, but its true power goes far beyond simple cooperation. When people unite their efforts, skills, and passions, they can achieve goals that would be impossible alone. The phrase "team work makes dream work" captures this idea perfectly. This post explores how teamwork transforms individual dreams into shared realities, why it matters, and how to build effective teams that turn vision into action. Why Teamwork Matters More Than

At Project Action London, we believe deeply in the value of transferable skills — the real, lived expertise that shapes exceptional childcare practice. Throughout my 40‑year career, I’ve seen how these skills elevate standards, strengthen families, and create confident practitioners. Yet in our sector, experience isn’t always recognised in the way it should be. Too often, the focus falls solely on qualifications rather than the depth of knowledge someone brings. My own journe

If you work with children, families, or vulnerable adults, you already know how important safeguarding is. But there’s one message many people still misunderstand: A DBS certificate does not stay valid for years unless you join the Update Service. Every week I hear: “I don’t need to go on the Update Service — my DBS lasts forever.” or “I’ll just do another DBS if I ever need it.” But this misconception causes delays, job losses, failed registrations, and repeated DBS

The Importance of Flexible Childcare Solutions I’ve been reflecting on the government’s 30 hours of free childcare. This scheme currently excludes families who rely on nannies. For many households, a nanny isn’t a luxury; it’s the only childcare model that genuinely fits their working patterns. This is especially true when long commutes, irregular hours, or multiple children are involved. A nanny can provide wraparound care that nurseries often can’t. They support school or n

Important Information for Parents Hiring a Nanny: DBS Checks and the Update Service checking your nannies DBS is important As parents,...

For those working in roles that involve caring for children or vulnerable individuals, such as nannies or support workers, having a...

In childcare we have lots of theorists, Margaret McMillan, Bruna, Skinner and many more. I wanted an up to date theory for children and...

I have been proactive in staying informed about the latest research and incorporating that knowledge in childcare. The idea that a...