Ofsted registration is required by childminders caring for one or more children aged from birth to eight years where at least one individual child attends for a total of more than two hours. Local authorities provide information, application packs and EYFS details. Following an application and payment, Ofsted advises on Criminal Records Bureau disclosures, required for all those aged 16 and over who are regularly in the childminder’s home.
Registration involves a premises inspection and interview to check that the childminder can meet the requirements set out in the EYFS. If the application is successful, a certificate is issued setting out the conditions of registration. This must be displayed where parents can read it. Ofsted then carries out regular inspections to ensure the childminder continues to meet the requirements of the EYFS.