Charlene
Childminder in Orpington
Usually responds within 30 minutes
Female Member since Mar 2012 Last Updated Jan 2025 Last Login 23 Jan 2025
My Summary
About Me
My name is Charlene and I live a few minutes away from St. Mary Cray station in Orpington. I live with my partner of 14 years and two children aged 8 and 13.
I have been DBS checked, hold a current Paediatric First Aid, Food Hygiene and Safeguarding certificate.
I provide a welcoming and friendly home from home environment in a 3 bed semi-detached house with a garden. I am dedicated and passionate in making a happy and loving setting.
I have a play room for children, indoor activities including books, puzzles, arts and crafts along with many other items for all needs. I have a trampoline, ball pit, tents, slides, see-saw, climbing frame, scooters, bikes, hoops, sand and water, tuff tray play along with many other activities which are all covered by the EYFS.
Outdoor activities include play groups, library, parks and music groups. Special outings include Broadstairs beach, the zoo, farms and nature reserves. We also attend Forest School at least once a week.
My Experience
I am PACEY qualified and have a strong network of childminders as friends.
I believe each child is an individual and I will find watching them grow and reach their full potential very fulfilling. My mission is for children to be confident.
My Qualifications
I am PACEY (Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years) qualified. PACEY is the standard-setting professional association for childcare professionals, including childminders.
I am always seeking to develop my skills and further my knowledge. I have completed the PACEY Cache Level 3 course - Preparing to work in Home-Based Childcare and have a long list of further training courses I have completed.
My Availability
I am available Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (however flexible).
Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Before School | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no |
Morning | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no |
Afternoon | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no |
After School | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no |
Evening | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no |
Overnight | no | no | no | no | no | no | no |
Last Updated: 18/01/2025 |
My Fees
- Childminding from £6.50 per hour
Please discuss these with me directly.
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
- Training Certificate: Food Hygiene and Safety-Level 2 (added 05/01/2025)
- Training Certificate: Safeguarding for Childminders Certificate (added 05/01/2025)
- Training Certificate: Child Protection Certificate (added 04/01/2025)
- First Aid Certificate (added 13/02/2024)
- DBS Check (added 05/11/2019)
- Training Certificate (added 29/10/2019)
- Ofsted Certificate (added 29/10/2019)
Reviews
Latest reviews
Below are the latest reviews for Charlene. 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.
My husband and I were absolutely thrilled with the care Charlene provided for our daughter. As first-time parents using a childminder, we were initially a bit apprehensive, but Charlene quickly put our minds at ease. From day one, we were sent pictures of our daughter happily engaging in various activities. It was clear from the start that Charlene has a natural talent for caring for children, and our daughter was very comfortable in her care.
She introduced a wonderful variety of activities that not only kept our daughter entertained but also helped her to significantly improve her gross and fine motor skills. We’ve noticed a remarkable difference in her coordination, and we know this is thanks to Charlene’s thoughtful approach to early childhood development.
We are so grateful to have found Charlene and would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a kind, professional, and engaging childminder
by Racqs569 on 11/01/2025
Response by Charlene on 12/01/2025:
Thank you so much for your kind words and heartfelt review! It means a great deal to know that you felt at ease from the start. Seeing your daughter happily engaged and progressing is what makes what I do so rewarding. I feel privileged to have been part of your daughter’s early development and thank you for entrusting me with her care, it’s much appreciated. x
In my unique circumstances of having an unpredictable weekend work schedule, Charlene has shown remarkable flexibility and understanding. Her childcare skills are truly impressive, and I'm amazed at the diverse range of activities she engages my child in. From outings to the park, soft play area, engaging in creative activities like painting and cooking, to reading books and consistently providing updates, Charlene goes above and beyond. My little one, who is just 15 months old, eagerly looks forward to her time with Charlene and seems genuinely happy while she's there. Her happiness speaks volumes about Charlene's care. Her honesty and assistance are invaluable. Without a doubt, if you're seeking a childminder, Charlene stands out as the top choice.
by Karim on 26/08/2023
Response by Charlene on 26/08/2023:
Hi Karim, I'm delighted to read your kind words and appreciate your recognition of my efforts. Your child's happiness and well-being are my top priorities, and I'm glad that my flexibility and engaging activities have made a positive impact. It's been a joy getting to know you all, and it's an absolute pleasure to care for your little one, and I'm grateful for the opportunity. Thank you for your thoughtful review!
My son started going with Charlene when he was about to turn 10 months and since day 1 he loved it and never even looked back when I was leaving.
He is now been going for a few months and he literally cannot wait to go with Charlene (you should see his smile when he sees her every morning!).
I am a first time mom and Charlene has been amazing with me as well, she has been able to tackle every insecurity I had, she has been so patient with my questions and requests, and has made me actually enjoy the time my son is away.
Charlene has a lovely setting and takes the kids to this amazing adventures every week, which is what I loved in comparison with nurseries. My boy has done so many fantastic and incredibly simulating activities these past few months that has helped him to grow and develop enormously.
I cannot recommend her enough, and we are just happy that our journey with her has just started and we have a few years together ahead of us :)
by Val19 on 14/04/2022
Response by Charlene on 14/04/2022:
Thank you so much for such a touching review, I really do appreciate it. It is such a pleasure working with you all, you've got such an amazing family and the most incredible son with a smile that can light up any room. It is such an honour looking him and can't wait to see the little man he grows up to be in the future. I would just like to take this time to thank you for all of the support and dedication you've shown and wish you all the best. xxx
This women is incredible there is no better childminder like . Since my son has been going to this lady his progression I’n EVERYTHING is tremendous. All her food is fresh, the children go on day trips near enough every day which is included in your cost of child care . The children have themes everyday at her house with pictures daily of your child . I get updated daily with the food and how behaved my child is also . The education that is taught is absolutely incredible . My son always comes home happy with out fail . My son is very happy in her house settings which is very clean and child friendly . Her garden is amazing and also has a lot of child therapy toys for example calming lamps .
My son also bakes regularly and brings home thing he has made . Please bare in mind my son is only 2 . I feel very secure and safe and so does my son . I feel this lady protects my son and treats him like her own as she treats ALL the children fairly .
by skye on 30/03/2022
Response by Charlene on 30/03/2022:
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a kind review, I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. It has been such a pleasure watching your son grow and develop into such a strong and independent person, he is such a character and can't believe how fast he picks things up and takes in information, he's absolutely incredible. I'm so glad you're happy with everything and would like to take this time to thank you for all of your support.
We were very very fortunate to find Charlene, I searched online, she popped up and immediately I got beautiful kind vibes......let’s have it right, finding the right childcare for your babies is the hardest task we all face as parents in life....and how lucky were we!! Charlene is a beautiful soul, caring kind calm and sincere, everything we look for in another human who will be fit to look after our children. The environment Charlene provides for her childcare premise is everything a child desires to fell safe and have fun, it is equipped and designed around every corner to bring fun and joy for all that join her. Myself and my Son were happy the first moment we met her and entered her home and met her family. All a very natural vibe, we have never looked back, i would recommend Charlene to everyone I know. Her communication and organisation is impeccable and a credit to any child that is lucky to be in her care, she gets a 100 star rating from us. (my son quotes are “fun, not boring, safe, great food, great facilities and great company”) !!
by Louise on 26/09/2021
Response by Charlene on 26/09/2021:
Hi Lou,
Thank you ever so much for your detailed and most kind words. I am so glad you're both happy and appreciate your feedback regarding the space I've created. I truly value our new friendship and as I always say 'it's a pleasure looking after your son'. xxx
It was our first experience with childminders and we were a bit nervous but Charlene has made it so much easier. She put an extra effort to get to know our daughter and find out her interests so she could settle in a new setting. Thanks for all your work!
by REGINA on 19/09/2021
Response by Charlene on 19/09/2021:
Many thanks for your feedback and kind words. It was my absolute pleasure and I'm so glad I was able to put you at ease. It has been lovely getting to know you all and wish you all the very best. x
Charlene is an absolute angel. I must admit, even though my son is a big boy I was still nervous about him having a childminder as he has never had one before. When I say he thoroughly enjoyed his time with Charlene to the point of him asking when he’s going back there! Charlene took my son for a activity that he absolutely loved, she didn’t have to do that but she makes sure the children are occupied and entertained when the are under her care.
Charlene is very attentive and caring. She tries her best to work around you and tries her best to be as flexible as she can. The communication has always been 10/10 and she is so down to earth, you’ll find it hard not to love her!
Thank you so much Charlene for providing an amazing service. We will definitely be booking you again in the future.
Hilary xxx
by Hilary I on 31/07/2021
Response by Charlene on 31/07/2021:
Hi Hilary,
Thank you ever so much for such a lovely review. You've got a fantastic son, who got on really well with everyone, was willing to give things a go and an absolute pleasure to look after. I look forward seeing you both in the future. All the best and take care xxx
Charlene is extremely caring and outstanding at what she does. Aylah is always happy during her time with Charlene, going on lots of different trips and explorations as well as the countless activities they complete indoors. Charlene is also very easy to communicate with, I receive updates and pictures as well as topics and menus for the week. So sad for Aylah to be leaving in September!!
by Nicole on 12/07/2021
Response by Charlene on 16/07/2021:
Thank you so much for your kind words Nicole. I can truely say that Aylah has been a breath of fresh air and will be truly missed. It will be a sad day when she goes and will miss our little chats, but know that she'll love and do so well at school. I wish you all the very best and want to say 'thank you' for being so supportive and such a pleasure to know throughout this time. xxx
Charlene is a great carer. We have used Charlene for over a year and wouldn't hesitate in recommending her. Ella loves going to Charlene's, which is very important to us. Charlene always has activities planned, which typically involves an adventure outdoor if the weather is good. Her home is impressive for children, full of toys and fun stuff to do. Charlene is super flexible and accomodating. If you have to work late or early, it has never been an issue having extra out-of-typical hours support.
by David on 23/04/2021
Response by Charlene on 23/04/2021:
Many thanks for leaving me such a beautiful review and kind comments, it's been an absolute pleasure looking after Ella over this time and being able to watch her grow and develop into such a beautiful person. We all love her too and it has been a pleasure getting to know you all as a family. xx
I can’t express how grateful I am for Charlene!
She has been looking after my LO for since February and he’s settled so well in her home setting. The house is welcoming, clean and spacious enough for the kids to roam and play. Her hours are flexible as long as you give enough notice and most importantly Charlene is lovely with a calming nature, such a pleasure to be around.
Highly recommend!
by Monique on 13/08/2020
Response by Charlene on 13/08/2020:
Thank you so much, what a lovely review. I’m so glad you’ve been happy with my care, it’s been a pleasure working with you and your family too. Many thanks for taking the time to post this feedback, I really appreciate it. xxxx
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