There are several different ways to register as a childminder or a nanny in England. This section explains who can join the Ofsted Childcare Register, the Early Years Register, how to apply, and the costs involved.
Other topics covered in this section include how to register as a childminder and what happens afterwards. Check what obligations and responsibilities you have once you start looking after children.
As a rule, you need to register with Ofsted or a childminder agency to get paid for looking after children under eight (8) years old.
But, the childminder registration process would become mandatory if all these circumstances apply to your situation:
Failing to register with Ofsted when you need to can result in a fine!
Note: Different rules apply for 'daycare' (childcare conducted on non-domestic premises). For example, it is not uncommon for childcare providers to conduct daycare outside someone's home (e.g. at crèches, nurseries, and playgroups).
But, you would not need to become a registered childminder if you are a:
There are some benefits in choosing to register as a childminder even if you do not have to (e.g. you're a nanny). Doing so can help the parents qualify for free childcare. See further details below on which register to join.
Childminding rules and regulations place certain restrictions on who can register as a childminder in the United Kingdom. Thus, you would not be able to make a successful application if you:
Note: You can get disqualified from providing early years or later years provision (including the management of). Use the Ofsted waiver application form if you are applying to waive disqualification as a childminder.
There are several different ways to register as a childminder or nanny. In most cases, it would depend on:
Note: The application process is set up to prompt you into joining the correct register at the time you apply.
You would need to join the Early Years Register if you want to (both):
Note: There is no mandatory requirement to join the Early Years Register if you plan on being a nanny.
Once you apply, and your checks are complete, Ofsted will send an inspector to make the registration visit. You would need to follow the Early years foundation stage statutory framework (EYFS) after you join the register.
You would need to join the Ofsted Childcare Register if you want to:
You can choose to join the Childcare Register and make a voluntary registration as a nanny. In this case, Ofsted would not carry out the registration visit. But, the process involves being inspected as a childminder or childcare provider instead.
There is an annual registration fee paid to Ofsted. The other costs also include DBS checks for childminders and childcare workers, insurance, and training.
Note: The annual cost to register as a nanny is £103.
The process of registering as a childminder or a nanny with Ofsted is not a complex one. Find out how to register online, how much registration costs, and how long the process takes to complete.
Ofsted will carry out several steps after you apply to be a childminder or a nanny. Check what will happen if they approve your application and how to object to a decision if they refuse it.
Ofsted set out key obligations and responsibilities for childminders who have registered to work. Besides keeping your details up to date, there is a specific form to use for reporting accidents and incidents.
How to Become a Nanny or Childminder in England