Emily Messenger
Childminder in Four Marks
5.0
My Summary
About Me
I’m a warm, nurturing Ofsted-registered childminder in Four Marks, East Hampshire, offering a home-from-home setting where children can learn, explore and thrive.
With a strong passion for outdoor learning, nature and adventure, I create exciting experiences that make childhood memorable while supporting every child’s individual development.
We’re outdoors as much as possible, making the most of local parks, woodland, nature reserves, farms, country parks, National Trust properties and Forest School experiences. I love giving children real opportunities to explore nature, build confidence and develop independence through hands-on adventures.
When the weather is wet or cold, we make the most of fantastic local indoor places too, including libraries, toddler groups, museums, soft play, play centres, cafés and community activities. There’s always something exciting to discover!
I’m married with three children aged 8–18, and family life is a big part of who I am. My husband also runs our local youth darts academy, so children, community and creating opportunities for young people are very much at the heart of our family life.
My Experience
I have 9 GCSEs graded A*–C, an AVCE in Art & Design and studied Fashion Textiles to BA (Hons) degree level. I also hold a Level 2 RHS qualification in Practical Horticulture, which I bring to my childminding through our ‘Grow Club’, where children learn to grow their own fruit, vegetables and flowers.
My career began in opticians, where I worked as a contact lens supervisor and retail manager, before my passion for organising charity events led to a 10-year career as a Community Projects & Events Officer for Alton Town Council.
It was through running creative workshops and events for local families that I discovered my true calling. I retrained as an Early Years Educator and became an Ofsted-registered childminder, bringing together my creativity, organisation, community experience and passion for nature to create meaningful learning experiences for young children.
My Qualifications
I hold a TQUK Level 2 qualification in Caring for Children and Young People from South Bank College, alongside Paediatric First Aid training and Hampshire County Council Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training. I also hold an RHS Level 2 qualification in Practical Horticulture.
Alongside my childcare qualifications, I have a strong creative background, having studied Art & Design at college and Textile Design at university to BA (Hons) degree level. I bring these skills into my setting through creative, hands-on activities, arts and crafts, nature-based learning and our ‘Grow Club’, where children enjoy growing their own food and flowers.
My Availability
I am available for childcare from 8am-6pm Mon-Thursday
My Fees
- Childminding from £8.00 per hour
I accept eligible Government-funded childcare hours and am registered for Tax-Free Childcare.
My private childcare rate is £80 per day (8am–6pm), with additional hours charged at £8 per hour.
Please get in touch to discuss your childcare requirements, funding options and availability.
My Local Schools
- I provide pick ups at Medstead Church of England Primary School
My Documents
- Ofsted Certificate (added 13/04/2025)
- First Aid Certificate (added 13/04/2025)
Reviews
5 out of 5
Latest reviews
Below are the latest reviews for Emily Messenger. Please note that reviews represent the subjective opinions of other Childcare.co.uk members and not of Childcare.co.uk. Parents must carry out their own checks and references on childcare providers to ensure that they are completely happy before enaging in the use of their services.
We are extremely happy with Emily’s Explorers and would highly recommend it to other families. From day one, our child has been welcomed into a warm, caring, and supportive environment where she feels safe, happy, and confident.
Emily is approachable, attentive, and genuinely invested in each child’s wellbeing and development. We have seen clear progress in our child’s learning, independence, and confidence since attending, and she always comes home excited to talk about her day. There is a great variety of engaging activities and experiences, both indoors and outdoors, which keep the children stimulated and encourage curiosity and creativity. Communication with parents is also excellent, with regular updates and helpful feedback.
Overall, Emily’s Explorers provides outstanding care and a nurturing environment where children can truly thrive. We are very grateful for the positive impact it has had on our child.
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by
Laura
on 09/06/2026
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This profile was last updated on 18th August 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.