IECD-UNESCO CATEGORY 2 INSTITUTE TO HONOR CHILDMINDERS IN LANDMARK AWARD AS FORMAL SECTOR TURNS 10

CEO, Mrs. Shirley Choppy Calls on Individuals and Businesses to Support the Initiative

Today, the Institute of Early Childhood Development (IECD-UNESCO Category 2 Institute), held a press conference at its Head Office to announce the launch of the 1st Childminders’ Excellence Award 2025. Led by the CEO of the Institute, Mrs. Shirley Choppy, this new initiative aims to recognize the dedication and professionalism of 124 registered childminders across Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.

The award will celebrate childminders for their vital role in providing quality early childhood care and education while highlighting the importance of the National Standards for Childminding Services in Seychelles, enacted in 2016, which ensure high-quality home- based child care.

The launch of this initiative aligns with two significant milestones in early childhood development. First, it marks the 10th anniversary of the Pre-Registration and Sensitisation Training (PRESET) Programme, which established the 10 National Standards required for registering home-based childcare services. Second, it coincides with the global celebration of International Early Childhood Educators Day on 4th September 2025.

Click her to view the LIST OF REGISTERED CHILDMINDER ELIGIBLE FOR THE AWARD, BY REGION

Award Criteria

Childminders will be evaluated based on:

1. Quality of Care – Providing nurturing emotional support and high-quality child
2. Creative Learning Environment – Encouraging early learning through play, outdoor activities, and educational visits.
3. Health & Safety – Maintaining hygiene, cleanliness, and proper
4. Parental & Community Engagement – Building strong relationships with families and actively participating in community and IECD activities.

An independent judging panel, including experts from the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) sector, is currently conducting visits and interviews to assess nominees.

Award Categories

• Innovative Practices Award – Excellence in implementing early learning
• Most Engaged Award – Active participation in training and capacity-building
• Emerging Talent Award – Outstanding performance by newly registered
• Public Choice Award – Voted by the
• Most Outstanding Childminder Award – Overall excellence in

Winners will receive an overseas study tour to observe best practices in child care services abroad.

Special Recognition

During the award ceremony on 13th September 2025 at Eden Bleu Hotel, IECD will also honour childminders for their long-term service – 10 years and 5 years – in the field.