City celebrates its childminders at special event

The City of Wolverhampton Council's Early Years team recently held an event to thank Wolverhampton childminders for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to supporting the city's youngest children.

The celebration, at Bantock House, gave childminders and children the chance to enjoy a wide range of activities, including storytelling sessions, skittles and a mud-free play kitchen, providing a fun and interactive event for all.

The council's Deputy Director for Education Phil Leivers also presented long-service awards to seven local childminders who have dedicated more than 25 years to caring for children, with two recipients celebrating over three decades of service.

Collectively, Ann Chalak, Josephine Jones, Dawn Bickley, Phillipa Cook, Diane Vernon, Sarah Bacon, and Mauya Cespedes-Garrison have cared for over 150 children throughout their careers, making a lasting impact on countless young lives and families across the city.

Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: "Childminders are often the unsung heroes of early years education and care, playing a vital role in helping children develop the social skills, confidence, and independence they need to thrive and be ready for school.

"They work closely with families, providing high-quality care and education within a nurturing home environment and building trusted relationships that frequently develop into lifelong friendships.

“It was fantastic for our Early Years team to recognise the impact they have on our children and families at this special event and, on behalf of the council, I would like to thank all our childminders for the care, dedication and support they provide every day.“

I would especially like to congratulate Ann, Josephine, Dawn, Phillipa, Diane, Sarah and Mauya for their long service – their years of commitment have helped shape the lives of so many young people, and their contribution is truly appreciated.

"We need more people with that same dedication to consider becoming childminders, so if you are passionate about working with children, I would encourage you to find out more about the support available and consider joining this valued profession."

For more information about becoming a childminder, please email the council's Early Years team via early.years@Wolverhampton.gov.uk or visit https://www.corampacey.org.uk/.