Sam Tonkin
Childminder in St. Albans
My Summary
Where Every Little Step Matters
About Me
Hello, I’m Sam from Stepping Stones Childcare in St Albans. I’m an Ofsted registered childminder and mum of three.
My warm and welcoming home-based childcare setting is located in AL4, conveniently close to Beaumont and Oakwood Schools. We are open 4 days per week Monday to Thursday and all year round.
The children have access to a wide selection of age-appropriate toys, resources and activities, as well as a safe, fully astroturfed garden that can be enjoyed all year round. Children love to play with our ride-on toys, sandpit and a range of outdoor play equipment, providing plenty of opportunities for active and imaginative play.
I believe that learning and development extend beyond the setting, which is why I actively engage the children in our local community. We regularly attend music and storytelling groups, visit local parks, garden centres and other outdoor spaces, and enjoy trips to soft play venues. I also meet regularly with other local childminders, giving the children opportunities to experience new environments, enjoy physical activity, make new friends and socialise with children of different ages.
Alongside play and exploration, I encourage the children to develop important social skills such as good manners, kindness, sharing and consideration for others. Through regular interaction with both children and adults, they build confidence, independence and valuable communication skills, helping them to feel prepared and confident as they make the transition to school.
At Stepping Stones Childcare, my aim is to provide a nurturing, fun and engaging environment where every child feels happy, supported and excited to learn and explore.
My Experience
I am Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) trained, have a Paediatric First Aid certificate and both my husband and I have full DBS. I have three years experience as a Childminder and 11 years as a parent myself.
My ethos is to inspire a culture of respect, honesty and kindness, while valuing the uniqueness of every child and their individual learning needs, interests and personality. Through time to play, space to explore and freedom to choose, I aim to provide a nurturing and safe home environment where every child can thrive.
Children’s happiness, development and well-being are at the heart of everything I do, and I feel incredibly lucky to provide a setting where they can learn, grow and enjoy their early years at their own pace.
My Qualifications
I am fully DBS and Paediatric First Aid trained. I have public liability insurance and business car insurance.
I have attended recent courses on Child Protection & DSL Safeguarding, FGM, PREVENT, Children’s Behaviour Management, Safe Sleep, Nutrition 1 & 2 and Food Hygiene and keep up-to-date with my own personal CPD via childcare.co.uk membership.
My Availability
I currently have one 0-4 EYFS, Monday to Thursday and all-year-round space available from January 2027.
I would be happy to discuss your family’s requirements - so please get in touch!
My Fees
- Childminding from £10.00 per hour
I accept the 9 month to 23 month and 2 year old Government funding, 15/30 hours and the tax free childcare scheme.
My Local Schools
This childminder has not yet informed us whether or not they provide any drop off or pick up services at local schools.
My Ofsted Inspections
The inspection grades below have been obtained from the Ofsted website based upon the registration number the childminder has provided to us. You should verify this information yourself prior to using the childminder.
Latest Inspection Report Card
My Documents
- DBS Check (added 10/09/2023)
- Ofsted Certificate (added 10/09/2023)
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This profile was last updated on 16th September 2026 and has been produced from information provided to us by the user. We have not verified or confirmed the accuracy of any of the information and members should undertake their own vigorous checks and references. Please ensure you read our Safety Advice and information on how to Check Childcare Provider Documents.