Little Gems
Childminder in Chester
Usually responds within 12 hours
Female Member since Aug 2018 Last Updated Apr 2025 Last Login 11 May 2025
My Summary
Childminder In Upton, Chester
About Me
My name is Gemma and I live in Upton, Chester with my husband Richard and our two beautiful children, Charlie and Jessica, both our children are in full time school but they will be around most evenings to play and interact with the children in my care. We also have a 8 year old cocker spaniel called Toby.
After leaving school, I fell into a job at the council and I made a career in management and insurance for over 10 years. I had always wanted to work with children and after having my own I decided if I didn’t do it then I never would and I am so glad I made the change! I began by working in a day nursery and quickly became room leader, I was responsible for running the room, planning activities and keeping the room safe and secure. I then moved on to a preschool where I was working with the children to prepare them for their school journey. I absolutely love working with children and could not imagine ever doing anything else, I am very passionate about children’s learning and development and I find it extremely rewarding to help a child progress through the different stages of their early childhood.
I love taking children out in the fresh air and like to go on walks with the children to the park, I take them on buses and trains to give them new experiences and we also go on regular day trips to places such as the zoo, farm parks and soft play. I enjoy giving children new experiences and allowing them to explore the world around them.
I use the downstairs of my home for childminding, this comprises of a front room (that is only use for sleeping), a downstairs toilet and an open plan kitchen/diner/playroom. I also have a large enclosed garden, we have recently had work done to the garden with more work planned in the coming year.
I have two children of my own and aim to provide a high quality level of care that I would want for my own children.
My Experience
I am a Level 3 in Early Years Education and the EYFS is at the forefront of how I work alongside following the children’s interests.
I have worked in a nursery as a room leader planning activities for children as well as ensuring the room was safe and staff knew what they were doing. This role also involved knowing what stage of development children were at and which areas they need help to progress. From this I could determine what type of activities would best aid the children’s next steps. At this nursery we used the Montessori method of teaching, I like the Montessori method and will bring lots of my experience in this area to my own setting.
I also worked in a preschool ensuring children were ready and prepared for school. This involved a lot more of children’s independence as well as their mark making skills and a knowledge of mathematics and counting.
My Qualifications
I hold a Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education
My Availability
I work from 8am to 5pm. I am currently full but will have a space becoming available in January 2026.
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Before School | no | no | no | no | no | no | no |
| Morning | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | no |
| Afternoon | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | no |
| After School | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | no |
| Evening | no | no | no | no | no | no | no |
| Overnight | no | no | no | no | no | no | no |
| Last Updated: 24/04/2025 | |||||||
My Fees
- Childminding from £5.50 per hour
My day rate is £55. This is from 8am until 5pm. Parents will need to provide nappies and wipes for their child along with a packed lunch.
My Local Schools
This childminder has not yet informed us whether or not they provide any drop off or pick up services at local schools.
My Documents
- Ofsted Certificate (added 17/03/2025)
- DBS Check (added 17/04/2024)
- First Aid Certificate: Full Paediatric First Aid (added 17/04/2024)
- Exam Certificate: Level 3 NVQ (added 17/04/2024)
Reviews
5 out of 5
Parents say
This childminder provides a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe and happy. She plans educational and fun activities, including outings, creating an engaging experience. Parents praise her caring nature, excellent communication, and organizational skills. Children often don't want to leave due to the enjoyable atmosphere. Highly recommended by multiple families.
Summary generated by AI from the text of recent member reviews
Latest reviews
Below are the latest reviews for Little Gems. Please note that reviews represent the subjective opinions of other Childcare.co.uk members and not of Childcare.co.uk. Parents must carry out their own checks and references on childcare providers to ensure that they are completely happy before enaging in the use of their services.
My son attends Little Gems and we love it! Gemma has such a calm, warm and friendly demeanour and you can tell she really cares about the children. My son was tricky to settle into a new environment, but we've been confident in Gemma every step of the way - when he first started, she went as far to check-in with us throughout the day, which was very reassuring. Gemma regularly plans fun and exciting activities for the children and we're often amazed by what she can fit into her days! A lovely home setting with a kind and engaging childminder - highly recommend.
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Emily
on 16/03/2025
My son has been going to Gemma for a few months now and we thoroughly recommend her. She’s caring, experienced, plans lots of educational and fun activities and they go on lovely outings. She also has great communication and is very organised. We highly recommend her!
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Carolina
on 20/08/2024
I am thrilled to recommend Gemma as an exceptional childminder! My daughter absolutely loves her time with Gemma, often not wanting to leave because she has so much fun. Gemma creates a warm, engaging, and nurturing environment where children feel safe and happy. The activities she plans are both educational and entertaining, making every day an adventure. Her genuine care and attention to detail are evident in everything she does. If you're looking for someone who will treat your child with love and respect while providing a fantastic experience, look no further than Gemma. She's simply the best!
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Katie
on 20/07/2024
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This profile has been produced from information provided to us by the user. We have not verified or confirmed the accuracy of any of the information and members should undertake their own vigorous checks and references. Please ensure you read our Safety Advice and information on how to Check Childcare Provider Documents.
