Framework for the regulation of providers on the Childcare Register
How Ofsted regulates applicants and childcare services that are only on the Childcare Register.
Applies to England
Documents
Details
This framework gives an overview of the regulatory system for anyone applying to register on the Childcare Register and for anyone who is already registered on it.
If you are applying to register, or already registered on the Early Years Register, please see our childcare guidance by provider type.
Updates to this page
Published 20 August 2014Last updated 1 November 2024 + show all updates
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Updated following the Department for Education’s updated EYFS framework, published on 1 November 2024. Most of the changes relate to the introduction of a new provider type, ‘childminder without domestic premises’, along with guidance on regulating and inspecting this provision. We also increased the number of people allowed to provide/assist with childminding from 3 to 4. If 5 or more people look after children at any time, this is considered childcare on domestic premises. Further, we clarified when certificates of registration need to be displayed. We also updated the amount of time that a childminder can operate on non-domestic premises, under ‘Childminder’.
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Updated to simplify guidance and incorporate feedback from the sector. Clearer definitions added about the different parts of the Childcare Register. Updated links to supporting documents. Added average registration timescales. Clarified the ongoing requirements for registration and the need to continue to meet these to remain registered. Added information on how childminders can update their registration.
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Change to 'Making an application' section: signing up to the DBS Update service is strongly recommended but no longer mandatory.
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Updated for new inspection arrangements from 1 April 2017.
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Document updated for the latest information.
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First published.