Ash & Claire In The Media
Ash & Claire Childminding on BBC South Today, 12th January 2026.
We talked about the incoming loss of the 10% wear and tear tax, and it consequences on childminders and parents.
18th June 2025
Basingstoke Gazette:
Twenty-six childminders and their mindees took part in a walk as part of the Barnardo's Big Toddle, which raises money for disadvantaged children.
On June 10 at 10am, children dressed up and walked two laps of the Down Grange Athletics Track with their childminders.
The event in Basingstoke, part of the nationwide Barnardo's Big Toddle walk, was organised by Ashleigh Crouch, who runs Ash and Claire Childminding with his wife Claire.
Ashleigh took to Facebook and said: "What an amazing morning!
"Every child was incredible with the rain and wind not holding them back.
"Not only have we raised around £1,800 for Barnardo's, it's a chance to show everyone how many childminders there are in Basingstoke and the amazing job we all do."
Ashleigh previously said the morning will be 'cheerful and heartwarming' with 'little ones dressed up and toddling for a good cause'.
He added: "It’s also a great way to shine a light on how childminders work together and support the local community."
24th April 2025
Basingstoke Gazette
https://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/news/25108103.childminders-hold-sponsored-walk-barnardos/
CHILDMINDERS across Basingstoke will take part in a sponsored walk to raise money for vulnerable children.
Ashleigh Crouch, who runs Ash and Claire Childminding with his wife Claire, has organised the event as part of the Barnado's Big Toddle on June 10.
The Big Toddle will see thousands of children and adults take part in a safari-themed half-mile walk between June 9 and 15 to raise money for the charity.
Barnardo's says the fundraising week will be a 'wonderful way for little explorers to hop, skip, and jump their way to the finish line, all while helping the children and young people we support to feel safer, happier, healthier, and more hopeful.'
The event on June 10 will take place at Down Grange Athletics Track at 10am, with around a dozen childminders and children taking part from across the area.
Ashleigh said the morning will be 'cheerful and heartwarming' with 'little ones dressed up and toddling for a good cause'.
He added: "It’s also a great way to shine a light on how childminders work together and support the local community."
The couple's business was rated 'Good' by Ofsted in January, with inspectors noticing that the childminders have a 'welcoming environment'.
The company cares for children 0-4 in a 'safe, nurturing and playful environment with a big focus on real-world learning and building positive relationships'.
Ashleigh previously told the Gazette: "As a male childminder – still quite rare in early years and I believe I'm the only one in Basingstoke – I’m also passionate about showing that childcare is a rewarding and inclusive profession for anyone with a genuine love for young children; and that children really benefit from having male childminders in their lives, having a male influence growing up."
9th April 2025
Basingstoke Gazette
https://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/news/25072589.ofsted-ash-claire-childminding-gets-good-rating/
CHILDMINDERS have expressed their pride after Ofsted inspectors praised their service.
Ash & Claire Childminding, a home-based childcare service in Hamlyn Road, was visited by Ofsted inspectors on January 22 and achieved an overall 'Good' rating.
Inspectors looked at the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and rated it good in all areas.
According to Ofsted, children "demonstrate a strong sense of belonging in the childminder's welcoming environment.
"They are happy, feel safe and form strong relationships with the childminder and his co-minder. Children enter the home with confidence and settle to activities that stimulate their interests and support their learning.
"The childminder knows the children well and has high expectations for their learning. Children enjoy a broad curriculum and develop high levels of self-esteem."
It continues, adding that the childminder is a "good role model for the children, he is calm and understanding and supports children's relationships well."
Ofsted said that children "enjoy regular outings with the childminder. They go out daily, attend toddler groups, visit the park, and go to places of interest, where they benefit from exciting bus rides."
Readers can find the full report by visiting https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/17/2743944
Ashleigh Crouch, co-founder of Ash & Claire Childminding, said he is "really proud" of the Good rating.
He said: "We care for children aged 0–4 in a safe, nurturing and playful environment, with a big focus on real-world learning and building positive relationships. Our setting is inclusive and community-focused – we’re often out and about with the children, whether it’s toddler groups, exploring Milestones Museum, or learning through play at The Look Out Discovery Centre and lots of other places.
"At home, we plan hands-on activities like seasonal crafts, sensory play, baking, nature walks and small-world setups. Every day is built around helping the children grow in confidence, independence and imagination.
"I’ve been working in childcare since I was 15 – over 25 years now – and have worked as a nanny, teacher, nursery manager and Cub leader. I hold two degrees in early years as well as an NVQ. Claire has a degree in early years, and has worked at a nursery as a room leader. We’ve dedicated our careers to teaching and creating spaces where little ones feel safe, valued and excited to learn.
"As a male childminder – still quite rare in early years and I believe I'm the only one in Basingstoke – I’m also passionate about showing that childcare is a rewarding and inclusive profession for anyone with a genuine love for young children; and that children really benefit from having male childminders in their lives, having a male influence growing up."