Prospective childminder seminar
This two-hour session gives the information you need to become a registered childminder. It covers the process of applying for registration with the Care Commission, the legal implications and the childminder's responsibilities. Candidates will have the opportunity to raise questions.
Falkirk. 9.45am to 12noon. Admission free, but on an invitation-only basis.
Contact the Care Commission Stirling office on 01786 406 363.
24 February
Developing the childcare workforce
Organised by Neil Stewart Associates, this conference will discuss the recruitment, retention and training of childcare staff, promoting childcare as an attractive, high-status career, and developing more flexible and attractive training routes into social care. Speakers include David Jeffrey of the Sure Start Unit, Anne Longfield, chief executive of the Kids' Clubs Network, and David Leay, training manager of Northampton County Council.
Paragon Hotel, London SW6. From 180 to 390 plus VAT. 9.15am to 4.40pm. Ring 020 7324 4330 or see the website www.neilstewartassociates.com/sh145.
26 and 27 February
The Early Years and Primary Teaching Exhibition
Sponsored by Nursery World and the Times Educational Supplement, this two-day exhibition and conference aims to meet the needs of the early years and primary school sectors by bringing together a number of leading education resource exhibitors and seminar speakers under one roof.
Ramada Hotel, 117 Milltown Road, Shaws Bridge, Belfast BT8. 10am to 5pm.
Admission free, but seminars cost 10 in advance and 15 on the day. Contact the ticket hotline on 01923 690646 or visit the website www.teachingexhibitions.co.uk.
27 February
Paediatric First Aid
This course covers basic information on the essentials of first aid for the care of children and babies. Areas covered include casualty assessment, choking, bleeding, wounds, bandaging and resuscitation. The course leads to Appointed Person status in Paediatric First Aid.
Tithe Barn, Berkshire. Cost 80. 9.30am to 3pm. Contact the Manor Tree Group on 01753 592200 or e-mail contact@themanortreegroup.com.
4 March
Whose learning is it? National play conference
This conference by Playlink and Portsmouth City Council will bring together teachers and play professionals to share experiences and stimulate ideas.
Dr Roland Meighan, former special professor of education, Nottingham University, will speak on the 'natural curriculum', case studies, and the transformation of school grounds in primary and secondary schools.
Guildhall, Portsmouth. Cost from 70 to 90. Contact Leigh-Beth Campbell on 023 9284 1400 or e-mail leisure@portsmouthcc.gov.uk.
6 March
Montessori mathematics: making sense of decimals with the golden beads This seminar by Training in Early Years Education explores the range of Montessori mathematics materials used for developing understanding of the decimal system. Delegates will discuss the importance of recognising place values of numbers, and discover how this is taught through a series of precise, concrete exercises.
The Bar Convent Conference Centre, York. 10am to 4.30pm. Cost 52.
Contact Maggie Tait on 01759 302638.
