join the village
A village that takes vetting seriously
We only work with sitters who have genuine childcare experience. Here's what to expect.
the vetting process
your tier
Which one sounds like you?
Wherever you land, you're guaranteed pay at or above the National Minimum Wage. The tier just makes sure you're matched with families who need exactly what you bring.
"I'm new to this, but I'm ready to dive in."
Standard
A year or two of hands-on experience — maybe you're an apprentice, or you've worked in a nursery or primary school. Every great sitter started exactly here.
"I'm qualified, confident, and ready for more."
Experienced
Level 2 or 3 qualified, with a few solid years in an early years or school setting. Bonus points if you've got skills like Makaton up your sleeve.
"Families specifically ask for someone like me."
Specialist
Level 3 qualified with 6+ years' experience, maybe leading a nursery team, holding a teaching degree, or bringing real depth in SEN, speech and language, sleep training, or behaviour support.
Not sure which one's you? Neither were most of our best sitters, at first. Apply anyway — we'll work it out together.
a little secret
10 bookings in, and we've got something for you
Some things are more fun to discover than to be told. Go on — give the door a knock.
psst — click the door
You've found it 🎉
Complete your 10th booking with us and we'll be in touch with something special, just for you. Consider it our thank-you for being part of the village.
questions
Frequently asked questions
Your pay depends on your tier — Standard, Experienced, or Specialist — based on your experience and qualifications. Whatever tier you're in, you're always paid at least the National Minimum Wage, with real increases as your experience and qualifications grow. We'll confirm your exact rate once you join us.
By bank transfer, every two weeks on a Friday — with a clear breakdown every time, so you always know exactly what you're being paid for.
Enhanced DBS check, ID and right-to-work verification, two verified references, paediatric first aid, and a face-to-face interview.
Yes — accept or decline any booking, no minimum commitment.
We recommend holding your own public liability insurance for your own protection while working, and we're happy to point you in the right direction if you're not sure where to start.
A cancellation fee is charged to the family and passed on to you, in recognition of the time you'd reserved.
Yes — being part of Little Village isn't exclusive. The only thing we ask is that you don't privately arrange care with a family you've met through us, outside of Little Village. Everything else is entirely up to you.
No — you're paid through PAYE, so tax and National Insurance are worked out and deducted automatically before your pay reaches you. No Self Assessment, no year-end surprises.