'Superstar' Worthing childminder retires after 35 years and swaps minibus for Harley-Davidson
A 'superstar' Worthing childminder has retired after 35 years dedicated to the care and education of young children.
Louise Stanley ran Sparrows Nest Childminding Services in Goring and faced many changes and challenges over her long career.
She said her childminding business took over her home and her life, becoming a family affair. Her two children grew up playing with her charges and both her daughter and husband went on to become registered assistants.
Louise faced the launch of Ofsted inspections in 2001 and the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework in 2008. She dealt with the introduction of funded hours and then the expansion to babies, changes in legislation and governments, and revised inspection criteria, not to mention the pandemic.
She was consistently recognised by Ofsted as good, with her most recent report in February 2024 describing her charges as confident, happy and curious, enthusiastic learners.
Louise was known for her flexible, inclusive service, helping children of all abilities to make good progress. To help children with additional needs, Louise completed additional training, including learning Makaton.
She also completed Forest School training to enhance her provision and infused children with her own love of nature, including taking part in the annual RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.
Ofsted noted: “A real strength of the provision is their daily outings. Children enjoy visits to the beach, libraries, airport and fire-station, providing different memorable and enjoyable experiences for children. Parents comment that their children are lucky to learn about the wider community in such an engaging way.”
Louise involved her charges in numerous fundraising initiatives for various charities, including sponsored walks and a sponsored sleepover. She even completed a hike in Morocco for Mind.
Parents have described her as a 'superstar' who gave their children love, care, patience and happy memories.
Throughout her career, Louise has been a staunch supporter of other childminders, including Worthing Childminding Group, West Sussex Childminding Association and West Sussex Childminder Network.
She was a founder member of Worthing Childminding Association, Magic Minders, which will celebrate its milestone 25th birthday next year, and led the group through the Covid pandemic as chairperson.
Colleagues say she is 'one in a million' and will be remembered for 'the best Christmas party ever', thanks to all the bouncy castles she organised.
To celebrate retirement, Louise will be exchanging her childminding minibus for a Harley-Davidson and looks forward to exploring Canada on a well-earned holiday.