Flora Thompson, who runs Do-Re-Mi Childminding, received a Highly Commended Award at the Dingley’s Promise Star Setting Awards.
The childcare provider was shortlisted for the national Star Setting Award before being recognised at a ceremony in October.
The awards celebrate early years providers that demonstrate outstanding inclusive practices and help children with additional needs reach their full potential.
Flora and her team were praised for creating a welcoming environment where children receive support tailored to their individual needs.
The recognition follows the setting’s participation in an inclusion training programme run by Dingley’s Promise, which helps childcare professionals develop their skills in supporting children with SEND.
Councillor Kate Tomlinson, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Education, visited the setting on Tuesday 10 November to congratulate the team.
During the visit, she met Flora, her colleagues and some of the children in their care.
Councillor Tomlinson said:
“It was a pleasure to visit Do-Re-Mi Childminding and meet Flora, her staff and some of the wonderful children they support. Seeing first-hand the warm, nurturing and inclusive environment they have created made it clear why they have been recognised nationally.
“Childminders make a hugely important contribution to early education and childcare in Swindon, providing care that helps children thrive while supporting parents to work, train and study.
“This award is a fantastic achievement for Flora and her team and highlights the vital role childminders play in giving children the very best start in life. Their commitment to ensuring every child is supported to reach their full potential, regardless of their individual needs, is inspiring.
“We’re incredibly proud to see a Swindon childminder recognised in this way and I would like to congratulate them on this well-deserved success.”
More than 150 registered childminders currently operate across Swindon, providing home-based childcare and early learning opportunities for families.
Swindon Borough Council supports local childminders through its Early Years and Childcare Service, which provides training, safeguarding advice and specialist guidance.
Flora Thompson, of Do-Re-Mi Childminding, said: “Inclusion is not something extra at Do-Re-Mi, it is part of everything we do.
“We believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and flourish, and we are honoured that our commitment to supporting children with SEND has been recognised nationally.”
