Amanda Jeffrey, a childminder from Consett, County Durham, earned the Big Anti-Bullying award in recognition of her inclusive practice and promotion of positive behaviour to the children in her care.
To achieve the national award, childminders, schools and local authorities have to demonstrate they take bullying and inclusion seriously and meet the scheme’s strict criteria.
Ms Jeffrey said, ‘When I heard about the award only schools and organisations could apply, so I suggested they open it up to childminders too.
‘A lot of the requirements of the award I was already doing, such as promoting positive social development, sharing, and teaching children what behaviour makes others happy.
‘The majority of children I care for are under three-years-old and don’t understand what bullying is, so we do a lot of work around feelings and ensure that no-one feels left out.’
She added, ‘I received my certificate to say I had achieved a Big Anti-Bullying award last week and immediately put it up on the wall.
Ms Jeffrey, who is currently doing a foundation degree in early years, started her childminding business Kiddie Kraft Childcare Services, four-years-ago.
She is registered by Ofsted to care for five children at a time under the age of eight.
- For more information and to apply for the Big Anti-Bullying award visit http://bullyinginterventiongroup.co.uk/index.php