Staff Behaviour Policy

(Updated for EYFS 2025)

Policy Statement

At Just Little Ones Childminding we are committed to maintaining a professional, respectful, and child-centred environment. This policy outlines expected standards of conduct for all staff members, ensuring professionalism, positive interactions, and a safe, nurturing setting for children.

Professional Conduct

  • Staff members must behave professionally at all times, both within and outside the childminding setting.
  • All staff must adhere to policies, procedures, and ethical standards set by [Insert your childminding business name] and comply with EYFS 2025 requirements and safeguarding policies.

Respectful Interactions

  • Staff will treat all children, parents, colleagues, and visitors with respect, fairness, and dignity, regardless of background, culture, or beliefs.
  • Interactions with children should be positive, encouraging, and age-appropriate, fostering a sense of trust and emotional security.
  • Any form of harassment, bullying, discrimination, or inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated.

Confidentiality

  • Staff must maintain strict confidentiality regarding personal or sensitive information about children, families, and colleagues.
  • Confidential discussions should only take place with authorised personnel or when legally required.

Maintaining Professional Boundaries

  • Staff must maintain clear professional boundaries with parents, children, and colleagues.
  • Personal relationships or conflicts of interest that may compromise professionalism must be disclosed to management.

Appearance and Dress Code

  • Staff should present themselves in a professional, practical, and safe manner.
  • Clothing must be appropriate for working with children, taking into account hygiene, safety, and cultural sensitivity.

Punctuality and Attendance

  • Staff must arrive on time for scheduled shifts and meetings.
  • Any expected absence or lateness should be communicated promptly to management.

Personal Conduct

  • Staff must refrain from behaviour that may be harmful, offensive, or inappropriate, including:
    • Discrimination, harassment, or bullying
    • Substance abuse or intoxication while on duty
    • Use of inappropriate language, gestures, or actions
  • Staff must adhere to social media policies, ensuring they do not post anything that could compromise the childminding setting’s reputation.

Compliance with Policies & Procedures

  • Staff must be familiar with and follow all policies, including those related to:
    • Safeguarding and child protection
    • Whistleblowing
    • Health and safety
    • Data protection and confidentiality

Alignment with EYFS 2025 Changes

This policy aligns with the EYFS 2025 updates, ensuring that:

  • Safer recruitment measures are followed, including verifying references from authoritative sources.
  • Whistleblowing procedures are clearly outlined, ensuring staff can report unsafe practices.
  • Safeguarding training requirements are met, ensuring staff are competent in handling child welfare concerns.
  • Information sharing protocols are in place to comply with the latest “Keeping Children Safe in Education” guidance.

Disciplinary Procedures

  • Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, including:
    • Verbal or written warnings
    • Suspension
    • Termination of employment (for serious breaches)
  • Investigations will be fair, transparent, and follow due process, allowing staff to respond appropriately.

Review and Monitoring

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if changes in legislation or local guidelines require updates. Feedback from staff, parents, and external agencies is welcomed to ensure continuous improvement.

Signed: Jemma & Dale Ferriday
Date: August 2025
Review Date: April 2027