Frenchchildminder
Childminder in Blackheath
5.0
My Summary
Home-From-Home Care, In French, Minutes From Blackheath Station. No Afterschool, Just Little Ones!
About Me
Bonjour les parents!
I am a French childminder in Blackheath, Ofsted outstanding and good with outstanding features, loving what I do! You can find out what Ofsted think of me by googling "EY460399" my Ofsted number.
I look after 4 young children on a full-day basis, in my house in Blackheath. The children are generally aged between 12 months and 4 years. In addition to speaking only French to the children, I offer completely cooked-from-scratch food, structured activities at home, piano and guitar playing, singing and books, and lots of fun and laughter! I am based 7 min walk from Blackheath station, in my house (with garden) in a quiet cul-de-sac, with easy parking for you to drop off/pick up your children.
I am looking forward to getting to know your little one and to spending some quality time with them : ) I believe it is great for children to be with a small group of other children that they can truly build relationships with, and to do so in a homely environment. We make a happy little group. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch and pay us a visit... Merci!
Estelle
My Experience
I have a four-year degree in French literature during which I specialised in teaching French as a foreign language. Until 13 years ago that is what I was doing: giving one-to-one tuitions to adults locally. I am still teaching, but a different kind of students: young children! The fastest learners maybe!!
I have been working as a childminder for 13 years now, enjoying every minute of it. I also have two daughters aged 18 and 20, who have now left the nest to go to uni!
With the children, I have three main areas of focus: developing positive happy relationships within our little group ; developing the children’s independence ; and of course teaching them French.
Relationships: a small group such as ours that spends many hours together is the ideal situation for the children to learn how to enjoy positive, successful, caring relationships. Big enough to offer a choice of friendships, small enough to care and take every opportunity to teach the children how to relate with others! Most of the children here haven’t got siblings yet, so it is wonderful for them to have this large family a few days a week. And for me, of course I delight in a loving, fun, respectful atmosphere.
Independence: this is where the short Montessori In The Home training that I attended supports my own practice. With four children, everything takes a lot of time so I found I had to adapt the Montessori principles, but I definitely take the time to give attention to the children as they make their own observations, put on their own shoes, pour their own milk... We used to go out a lot, which of course had to stop with Covid, and in a way it has been a benediction because all the rushing is now a thing of the past and we take the time to just enjoy! Observing something in the garden, having a tickling session, painting cards for Mummy and Daddy, baking... we really are our own little playgroup and I have discovered the pleasure of taking it easy, fun and uninterrupted!
French speaking: there again, spending a lot of time at home lately has been extremely beneficial. We read a Lot of books (in French and English), it really is my default activity. Reading is good for relationships (four little ones squished on top of me listening to the story), it is good for learning about the world, and of course there is nothing better for language acquisition.
In terms of languages, I look after children coming from a wide variety of family situations: from English only at home to French only at home to a third language plus sometimes a fourth as well spoken at home... all cases are equally fine with me. These little brains are well stretched.
Generally, I have a positive, fun, encouraging attitude as well as excellent planning and a good routine. That means that the children feel secure and happy, which best allows them to learn and develop. I am 100% an outdoor person and take every opportunity to be out in the garden, eating al fresco as often as we can, sometimes in the tent under the rain!
Every day, I offer breakfast, lunch, a snack mid-afternoon, and a full dinner (aiming to finish dinner around 5.30pm). Healthy food is an absolute priority for me, I never use any processed or ready-made dishes and we only have sugar when we bake a cake. We even make our own playdough! I cook everything from scratch, with plenty of fruit and veg for happy, healthy children.
My Qualifications
I have all the required training to be an Ofsted-registered childminder including first aid, food safety, and safeguarding. I am a member of the Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (ex National Childminding Association), I have access to their training and 24/7 helplines and I follow their directives.
I also hold a 4-year degree in French literature specialising in teaching French as a foreign language, plus a few more qualifications... and: much love of children!
The main added-value I provide is that I speak French to the children. I have raised my own children bilingual (actually "2.5-lingual" as my husband is Italian) and their French is absolutely superb. I use the same resources with my "minded" children, actively teaching them new words, making sure they get many opportunities to re-hear and repeat... I am passionate about teaching French, passionate about giving children a loving, positive, exciting environment, and very keen to create a good relationship with you the parents!
I will look after children whose home language is English, French, or any other language, that is perfectly fine and feasible. Please don't hesitate to contact me to discuss any question.
My Availability
I haven’t currently got any spaces, but do feel free to make contact, It’ll be lovely to hear from you even if you’re just planning ahead and wanting to start establishing a relationship… Your child can be with me for even just one day per week which is completely fine, I only do full days (not half days although you are welcome to drop off and pick up at any time that suits you of course).
I have a very flexible settling-in procedure: you spend with us as much time as you like. Typically we would initially talk on Zoom so I can chat to both parents, show you the documents I use, explain how I plan for the children's development and track their progress, and discuss any question you might have. You then pay me a visit at my house to actually see us in person with the other children around, see if you feel your child could be happy with us... All being well, we then start the actual settling in a few weeks before your starting date, you come round a few times joining into our activities, sharing our meals... initially of course you stay with your child, then when we feel it’s the right time you leave your child for maybe an hour, then a bit longer… and when we feel your child is ready, they can properly start! I don't charge for the settling visits, I just want to make it a happy and easy transition for your child and you.
My Fees
- Childminding from £12.00 per hour
£120 a day, I open at 7.45 and close at 6pm but there is complete flexibility for you to drop off or pick up when suits you. This fee includes breakfast, lunch, snack and a proper dinner (so you don't have to cook in the evenings, just perhaps give your child a light snack before bedtime), as well as all activities and resources. I cook everything from scratch and I am always happy to buy nice new resources for the children's learning and development. All I need you to bring is nappies and a full set of spare clothes.
Small print: I will not increase my fee for all the time your child is with me, however any subsequent children will attract my fee at the time they start. I communicate my holidays to parents months in advance so you can get organised. I take 6 weeks off, usually one week at Christmas, one at Easter, one May half term, and two in August. In case I have to cancel a day (extremely rarely) I give you a replacement day or I pay you back. Families pay me monthly in advance by direct debit. I accept Childcare Vouchers and Tax-free childcare vouchers. I love what I do and I'll be looking forward to meeting you and to spending time with your little one and do my best to give them a happy time here with us.
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.
My Documents
- Ofsted Certificate (added 27/10/2018)
- DBS Check (added 27/10/2018)
- Reference: March 2020 - 22 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 21 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 20 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 19 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 18 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 17 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 16 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 15 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 14 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 13 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 12 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 11 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 10 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 9 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 8 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 7 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 6 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 5 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 4 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 3 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: March 2020 - 1 (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: Childcare.co.uk 5 star excellence (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: Childcare.co.uk 5 year certificate (added 21/05/2020)
- Reference: Parents’ letter to Ofsted prior to inspection (added 27/10/2018)
- Inspection Report: Outstanding Ofsted Certificate (added 27/10/2018)
- Training Certificate: Planning for Next Steps (added 27/10/2018)
- Training Certificate: Introduction to the 2017 EYFS (added 27/10/2018)
- Training Certificate: Safeguarding Children Level 2 (added 27/10/2018)
- Training Certificate: Food Safety At Work Level 2 (added 27/10/2018)
- First Aid Certificate: Paediatric First Aid (added 27/10/2018)
Reviews
5 out of 5
Parents say
The childminder provides a nurturing, stimulating environment with diverse activities, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Children learn independence, French language skills, and develop strong bonds. Parents praise the warm, caring atmosphere, healthy meals, and excellent communication. The childminder's reliability, dedication, and thoughtful approach to child development are highly commended.
Summary generated by AI from the text of recent member reviews
Latest reviews
Below are the latest reviews for FrenchChildminder. 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 so happy to have found Estelle. A true star who offers a real home from home experience for the children in her care. Our son has only been attending since January but is already completely settled and confident in Estelle’s company; a true testament to the caring and nurturing environment that she provides. Estelle sends many photos and videos throughout the day showcasing what the children are up to and what they are eating - always a healthy, home-cooked meal. She regularly takes the children out on wonderful adventures around London. She also involves them in all activities, whether this be chopping vegetables for dinner, setting the table or putting away plates, which really encourages a sense of independence. The settling in period with Estelle was done with great care. We were invited over for play dates, dinner dates and walks, well in advance of my son starting, so that he would be fully confident when the time came. We are very happy to have found Estelle, so much so that we have recently increased the days our son attends her childcare. Estelle is a fantastic childminder and I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone looking for care for their child.
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Rebecca
on 25/02/2026
We are so lucky to have found Estelle. We have sent two of our children to Estelle’s welcoming home and both run to the door every morning without looking back! Estelle is such a warm and energetic personality. Every day is well planned and exciting, be-it heading on the train into London Bridge to listen to the piano, heading to the local library or butchers, or just playing with toys and instruments in French. We are kept well informed of her plans throughout the day. We also have regular development meetings to understand how our children are progressing. She treats each child as an individual and tailors her approach for them to thrive. The group dynamics between the children is also lovely to see.
Her home is cosy and safe, food is always home cooked, tasty and varied. She gets the children to join in baking or food preparation safely with child safe equipment. Estelle is also extremely reliable. I can’t remember a day when she has had to close unexpectedly and holidays are shared well in advance.
Estelle is an exceptional childminder and I would recommend her to anyone. She is also super close to Blackheath station which is a bonus for anyone who gets the train to work.
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JulieR
on 23/02/2026
We have had a wonderful experience with Estelle as childminder firstly to our eldest daughter and now our son - from when each was 11 months until school age. Estelle cares for the children in a warm, friendly and safe environment, and treats them as if they were her own. They have each learnt so much with her - whether that's how to share, arts, crafts, learning about different cultures & festivities, baking, the list goes on. Estelle is always full of original, clever ideas, and enjoys taking the children out on mini adventures - no two days are the same! What stands out is how Estelle allows and encourages the children to be independent and supports their interests. Thanks to Estelle, both children now understand and can speak French which is a great benefit to us as a dual national family. We highly recommend her to anyone looking!
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Gab
on 17/02/2026
Our second daughter has the best time with Estelle, following in her sisters’ footsteps!
We adore Estelle - she provides such lovely, warm, nurturing care and the perfect balance of activities at home and fun trips out exploring, tailored so perfectly to the little ones she has that day. Our 2 year old daughter’s language was very strong for her age and Estelle has supported and grown this in both English and French and it continues to surprise us; she has supported her interests and proactively helped her development in so many areas - creativity, fine motor skills, gross motor, and through Estelle she has discovered a love for numbers, again in both English and French!
We really appreciate Estelle’s commitment to diversity and inclusion too and making sure this is reflected in the books the children read, the celebrations explored (including Diwali, Chinese New Year and a mosque visit!)
She has also helped them build such lovely friendships.
Would 100% recommend her to anyone. As my husband has said before, childcare this good is absolute gold dust.
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Briony
on 12/02/2026
We really couldn’t ask for more from a childminder. From day one our son has been happy and comfortable with Estelle. He smiles with delight when we mention her name at home and when he sets off for her house on a Monday morning. It’s heartwarming how happy he is on his days with her and that he will no doubt have wonderful adventures in nature or cultural visits in central London. Estelle involves the children in the practicalities of the day too - shopping for lunch at the local butcher, preparing healthy fresh meals, tidying the kitchen and brushing their own teeth. Our son comes home looking bright and well each day. Estelle speaks French and English so already at the age of 3 our son has some understanding of a second language. Estelle provides a rich, nurturing, respectful and fun environment and we know how extremely lucky we are to have found her.
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Chloe
on 05/01/2026
Estelle is exceptional. My 3-year-old daughter has been with Estelle since she was 1 year old and adores her. I honestly feel that Estelle has helped provide my daughter a great start in her early life. My daughter is very comfortable with her, sees Estelle as part of her family and, when separated, often asks after here.
Estelle is well qualified in early year development and committed to continuous studying. She gives real thought and attention to providing the children stimulating activities. Her home is warm, safe and clean and full of toys and musical instruments.
Annual festivities are celebrated or marked in some way. My daughter has properly seen more parts of London than I have with the regular trips that Estelle provides either into town or around local areas. In addition, Estelle helps the children with numeracy, drawing, spelling, exploring their feelings and of course speaking to the kids in French. Whilst French is not spoken in our home, my daughter now comprehends multiple French words and sentences.
We really appreciate having Estelle in our lives and I cannot recommend a better child-minder and a generous, kind, reliable human being.
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AnnaB
on 19/08/2025
We could not have asked for a more perfect childminder in every single respect.
(Also when writing this review I asked my husband if he had anything to add, and he said it’s hard to put into words how grateful I am for Estelle and how much she has transformed our lives!)
She is absolutely brilliant - we could not ask for a more caring, attentive, helpful person to look after our daughter who is quite highly sensitive and intense, and as sensitive parents too we had big concerns about the transition to childcare. But Estelle made the whole process manageable, seamless and supportive for all of us. She is incredibly thoughtful and considerate and allows the settling process to be tailored to your family which is amazing.
She is so warm and lovely, she has formed a truly great bond with our daughter, who frequently asks to phone her when she’s not with her!, and seems to have the perfect balance of activities, crafts, time outdoors, trips to different London locations and cultural visits - we are super grateful for her commitment to diversity and inclusion too and love that the children went to a mosque before we have! Our daughter loves her garden and little chalet too.
She is also incredibly thoughtful, and her communication is amazing both in terms of daily updates on WhatsApp which we love, but also regarding any challenges, queries, and she kindly does home visits to review progress too.
Our daughter has truly flourished from her time with Estelle and it’s so lovely to hear her French improving (we get the most adorable Franglais at home and she loves to teach us words!)
As an overly anxious parent finding childcare was always going to be a wrench for me but Estelle made me comfortable from the word go and I could not love and trust anyone more as a carer for my girls - we look forward to our littlest starting soon - and can only encourage families to snap up a spot with her because she absolutely is one in a million. I need more stars than five to give her a rating. She’s fantastic.
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Briony
on 28/07/2024
Our toddler has formed a really positive bond with Estelle and the other children she cares for, and he really enjoys his time with her. She provides a nurturing and creative environment, with lots of activities - music, crafts, cooking etc - and time spent outdoors. Our son found the transition to being looked after by someone other than his parents a bit of a challenge at first, and Estelle was responsive to his needs and gave me confidence he was being supported and well cared for. She’s warm, friendly and engaging. Highly recommended!
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123ABC
on 18/10/2022
I first met Estelle at the playgroup she used to run and she was so warm and welcoming that she instantly put me and my little boy at ease. She is so engaging and brilliant at story telling and singing that my little boy instantly adored her. I also observed how attentive and caring she was to the children in her care. During lockdown, she ran wonderful story telling and song sessions on Zoom which were such a treat and we so enjoyed taking part. I think any child would be incredibly lucky to have her as their childminder.
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Catriona
on 09/09/2020
Estelle gave our daughter an amazing first experience of being away from her parents in the day. She is very approachable, outdoorsy and always doing lovely things with the children. She is relaxed and a calming person for Henrietta. Her daughters helped Henrietta sleep. She was always very well fed and looked after. She also did things to help our family like collect Henrietta when my wife had a bad back. I can’t recommend her highly enough.! I hope Henrietta can continue to see her.
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Gareth
on 07/08/2020
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This profile was last updated on 25th February 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.
