New Podcast Episode Alert! Childminding Matters

SCMA’s second podcast episode for members is now available… Join host Nyree Cooper, SCMA’s Quality and Learning Lead, alongside special guest Wendy Smith — a childminder from Falkirk - who also works part time as an SCMA Childminding Development Officer. Wendy shares with us her love and enthusiasm for childminding, alongside her experience supporting other childminders. Wendy and Nyree touch on Wendy’s own experience of her last inspection back in October 2025 – and how although they’re a bit daunting, inspection is a valuable opportunity to showcase the amazing work you do in your setting, and demonstrate the high-quality childcare service you provide every day.

18th June 2026

Programme for Scotland’s Childminding Future – Year Two Impact and Expansion in Year Three

Recognising that the childminding workforce had declined significantly since 2016 and the significant adverse impact this was having on access to local flexible, high-quality pre-school and school-age childcare for families and communities around Scotland, in 2024 the Scottish Government committed funding for ‘The Programme for Scotland’s Childminding Future’, (PSCF), a three-year national childminder retention and recruitment programme. Delivered by the Scottish Childminding Association, (SCMA), PSCF undertakes a range of activity to grow the childminding workforce, support parental employment and contribute to child poverty reduction.

11th June 2026

SCMA welcomes the new Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise

On behalf of childminders across Scotland, SCMA is delighted to welcome the appointment in May 2026 of Siobhian Brown as the new Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise in the Scottish Government.

10th June 2026