We were lucky enough to meet Jane though a friend so when my youngest came along it was an absolute no brainer that he would start at 11 months old with Jane when I went back to work.

Fast forward over 5 years and I have only just managed to prise him away from the last afternoon we had kept in place for continuity after starting school.

Jane is an absolute gem and so natural with both babies and young children. She is kind, patient, calm and never gets flustered. She guides and supports the children (and the parents too) through all stages of their development, the good as well as the bumpy bits. The children grow and learn to be independent, respectful and confident in their abilities in a safe and warm environment.

Jane has a good network with other local childminders which offers important social development as the children get older.

The houseboat environment the children get to spend time in is idyllic. From watching ducks and swans paddle past the window to sunny lunches on the rear deck of the boat. All ages gather round the communal table at mealtimes with the babies watching and learning from the older children. There is a real sense of ‘family’ in the setting.

One of the most important things for me was that Jane has always seemed to enjoy her job (few can say that), spending time with the children and watching them develop.

I did not surprise me one jot that she was awarded an Ofsted rating of Outstanding.

Throughout our time with Jane I have never known a family that hasn’t been delighted with her care for their children and everyone is reluctant to leave when the time comes.

My son’s morning call of “Yay it’s a Janey day” is testament to how much she has meant to him.

• Overall
• Setting
• Cleanliness
• Food
• Communication