NCMA Childminders got down to 'playful learning' in Torquay

Hundreds of registered childminders from all over England and Wales enjoyed some playful learning at their Annual Conference held this year at the Riviera International Centre on Saturday 15th November. The Minister for Sure Start, Early Years and Childcare, Baroness Cathy Ashton, made the Ministerial Address. A welcome guest to the conference, she was assured of a warm response because of her commitment to raising the profile of childminders as a key part of government strategy.

This year's conference was supported by the LEGO Company and featured the launch of a new partnership between NCMA and the LEGO Learning Institute (LLI) designed to promote better understanding about the links between learning and play.

Hanne Boutrop, director of communication from LLI was the keynote speaker.

Gill Haynes, OBE, NCMA's Chief Executive says, "We are delighted that the LEGO Learning Institute has chosen NCMA as one of its international partners. The LLI work with a wide range of partners from across the world to spark debate about the value of play. We are therefore very proud that LLI recognises NCMA childminders as one of the most dynamic and influential groups of early years practitioners to work with on this fascinating project".

She continue, "This year's conference focused on some important themes for childminders, but there was still plenty of time for delegates to join in the fun at the civic reception held on Friday evening, hosted by the mayor of Torbay, and at the Mad Hatters Ball, on Saturday evening."