Scaling Your Childminding Business into a Nursery Setting

For many passionate childminders, there comes a moment when you start to imagine something bigger - not just in size, but in impact. Perhaps your waiting list is growing, or you dream of creating a space where more children can thrive within your care philosophy. Moving from a home-based setting to a nursery is a bold step, but with the right mindset and guidance, it can be one of the most rewarding transitions you’ll ever make.

From Home to Hub

1. Holding on to What Matters Most

The beauty of childminding lies in its warmth and familiarity - that feeling of family, of being truly seen and known. As you scale up, it’s important to keep this at the heart of your vision. Your new nursery shouldn’t feel like a departure from who you are; it should feel like a natural extension of your values. The key is to build a team and environment that nurture that same intimacy and trust, even as your numbers grow.

2. Leading with Vision, Not Volume

Expansion isn’t just about taking on more children or bigger premises. It’s about deepening your purpose. What do you want your setting to represent in the early years landscape? Whether it’s play-based learning, nature-inspired education, or emotional wellbeing - clarity on your “why” will guide every decision, from the layout of your rooms to the training of your staff.

3. Building a Team That Shares Your Heart

You can’t replicate yourself - but you can build a team who reflect your ethos. This is where leadership really begins. Recruit people who share your values and invest in ongoing mentorship rather than just management. When your team feel seen, supported, and inspired, they’ll create that same environment for the children.

4. Creating Systems That Support, Not Stifle

Childminding often flows naturally - smaller numbers mean intuitive processes. A nursery setting requires more structure: policies, rotas, ratios, and record-keeping. The key is to design systems that serve your values rather than drown them in paperwork. Keep asking, “Does this support the child?” If not, simplify.

5. Finding the Right Space

The transition from a home to a dedicated nursery space is both exciting and emotional. Look for premises that feel inviting, not institutional. Light, flow, access to nature - these all matter. Your environment is a silent teacher; it communicates calm, curiosity, and belonging.

6. Managing the Emotional Shift from your Childminding Business

It’s not just a business journey - it’s a personal one. You may grieve the intimacy of your childminding days while stepping into a leadership role. Give yourself permission to evolve. Remember: the same nurturing energy that once held a handful of children can now reach dozens, if not hundreds, through the culture you create.

Get the Right Support

You don’t have to do it alone. Consultancy can provide clarity on strategy, compliance, pedagogy, and leadership - helping you scale sustainably while staying true to your values.

Whether it’s reviewing your Ofsted requirements, developing your educational vision, or shaping a reflective team culture, having an experienced guide by your side can make all the difference.

Scaling from a childminding business to a nursery isn’t about becoming “bigger.” It’s about becoming braver - holding tight to what makes you unique while daring to dream of what’s possible.

If you’re ready to explore your next chapter, I offer bespoke consultancy sessions to help you plan your transition with confidence, care, and clarity.

Email to book a free, 15 minute discovery call hello@miennajones.com

Let’s change the story. For you. For your team. For the children.

Mienna Jones, Championing Childhood

📞 Call us: 07359 380484

📧 Email us: hello@miennajones.com

🌐 Visit: www.miennajones.com

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