Barbara Dennistoun

My Summary

My Experience

With 24 years of experience as a registered childminder and 29 years as a mother, I offer a level of dedication and continuity that is rare in early years care. My practice is built on a foundation of deep-rooted trust; I have successfully cared for children from just 2 weeks old through to 15 years of age, often supporting siblings and entire families for over a decade. In fact, many of my former mindees, now adults, still stay in touch and visit during their university breaks—a testament to the lasting relationships I build within the community.

My commitment to the childcare profession extends to a national level. I currently serve as the Convenor of the Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) Scottish Executive Board. In this role, I lead our elected members and staff team to drive the strategic direction of childminding in Scotland, ensuring our profession is recognised and supported at the highest levels of policy and government.

I am a passionate advocate for Froebelian Practice, having completed the Froebel course in Childhood Practice at the University of Edinburgh. This mastery of play-based philosophy allows me to create enriching, holistic environments that prioritise a child’s well-being. My experience now empowers me to champion these principles both in my own setting and by supporting fellow childminders across the sector.

Beyond my individual practice, I am dedicated to protecting the rights and voices of all children:

Foster Care: 10 years as a foster carer in Glasgow, gaining deep insight into the diverse and sensitive needs of vulnerable children.

Children’s Hearing Scotland: Currently a trainee Children’s Hearing Panel member. Soon to be fully qualified, this role allows me to apply my 24 years of experience to the legal system, ensuring vulnerable young people are at the heart of every decision.

I hold an SVQ Level 3 in Children's Learning, Care and Development and work as a partner provider with South Lanarkshire Council to deliver funded Early Learning and Childcare (ELC).

My Qualifications

Core Qualifications & Leadership

SVQ Level 3: Children’s Learning, Care and Development (Qualified 2008).

National Leadership: Currently serving as Convenor of the Scottish Childminding Association (SCMA) Executive Board; previously served as Director and Convenor for 10 years.

Funded Provider: Partner provider with the local council for the last 7 years.

Specialist Advanced Training

Froebelian Practice: Froebel in Childhood Practice, University of Edinburgh (Advanced play-based pedagogy).

Mental Health & Trauma: Certified in Trauma-Informed Practice, Children’s Mental Health, Trauma-Informed Parenting, and ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences).

Inclusion & Advocacy: Autism Awareness and currently qualifying as a Children’s Hearing Panel Member with Children’s Hearings Scotland.

Safety & Compliance (Regularly Updated)

Medical & Physical: Paediatric First Aid, Asthma Awareness, and Infection Control.

Safety & Hygiene: Child Protection (Advanced), Internet Safety, Food Hygiene, and Risk Assessment.

My Availability

Working Hours

Days: Tuesday to Friday only.

Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Service: 46 weeks per year (offering Term-Time, Part-Time, or Full-Time contracts).

Standard Rates

Preschoolers: £50 per session (Minimum 8-hour charge).

After-School: £23 per session.

Babysitting: £15 per hour (Flat rate for 1 or 2 children).

Transport & Logistics
For families who do not drive, I offer a local pick-up and drop-off service for an enhanced fee.

Morning Pick-up: From 8:30 AM.

Evening Drop-off: No later than 5:15 PM.

Important Note
Fees and availability are subject to periodic review. Please contact me directly to discuss your specific requirements and confirm current costs

My Fees

• Babysitting from £15.00 per hour
• Childminding from £7.10 per hour

I provide a transparent and professional service that reflects my 24 years of experience and the high standards of care I maintain. My fees are designed to be fair, while ensuring the long-term stability and quality of care your child receives.

Standard Rates

Preschool (Under 5s): Average rate is £50 per day, depending on the specific hours required.

After-School Care: Rates range from £20–£25 per session.

Extended Hours: For care required before 8:00 AM or after 5:00 PM, a supplemental fee of £5 per 15 minutes applies.

College & University Funded Places
I have extensive experience supporting student parents. However, as college funding is often paid in arrears and can involve significant processing delays (often 4–6 weeks at the start of term), the following applies:

Bespoke Agreements: Rates for funded places are tailored to individual course requirements.

Initial Payment: To secure a place and cover the initial "funding gap," an upfront arrangement for the first month's fees is required.

Parental Liability: Any shortfall between the college award and my contracted rate, or payments withheld by the college due to student absence, remains the responsibility of the parent.

Contract Terms & Continuity

Minimum Booking: To ensure children settle effectively and build strong bonds with their peers, I require a minimum of 2 full days per week for preschool children.

Term-Time Excellence: I offer dedicated term-time contracts. I do not take payment or charge during school holidays or bank holidays.

Professional Reliability: There is no charge for my own holidays or instances of my sickness.