It can be difficult for any parent, however there are many benefits both for parents and for children. We are here to help provide information and advice to give you confidence in the questions.

Below are various types of Ofsted registered childcare:

Childminders

Are self-employed and care for children in their own home for more than two hours per day. If they care for children under the age of eight, they must register with Ofsted. They can often provide flexible care to suit your needs and may be able to provide more individualised care for your children. Childminders can care for children from age six weeks to 16 years and some will offer funded early education.

Day Nurseries 

Care for children from birth to five years. They are usually open all day, but not at the weekends and bank holidays. Children can generally attend full-time or part-time and most nurseries will offer funded early education.

Pre-Schools 

Usually offer between two and a half and six hours each day during term time but some may open longer hours. Pre-schools are generally open to children aged two to four years (or until they reach compulsory school age). Most pre-schools now offer access to funded early education flexibly to meet the needs of parents.

Out Of School Clubs (Wraparound)

Often based in schools, halls, play centres or day nurseries. They will provide care before and/or after school and some will offer drop-offs and pick-ups. They are mainly open term time but some will provide a school holiday scheme. If they operate for more than two hours per day they must register with Ofsted.

Creches

Provide occasional childcare during particular events whilst you are taking part in an activity. Créches must be registered with Ofsted if they open more than four hours per day or the parents are not within the immediate area or they provide care for children aged under eight years for more than 14 days in a year.

Nannies & Home Childcares

Work from the family’s house and will often be willing to travel for work. They must be over 18 and can care for children for up to two families at any one time. Although many do have training, they do not have to hold relevant qualifications and can join the Ofsted voluntary childcare register, but they don’t have to. Parents are responsible for interviewing, checking the registration and all relevant references. FISH provide details of those who are only registered with Ofsted.

Who Are Ofsted?

Ofsted (Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills) are responsible for inspecting services that care for children and young people and services providing education and skills for learners of all ages. An Ofsted inspection will look at how well the setting meets the needs of the range of children who attend and ensure that they are meeting the requirements for safety and learning and development.

Ofsted Grading

Ofsted inspectors will then grade a setting as follows:

• Grade (1) - Outstanding
• Grade (2) - Good
• Grade (3) - Requires improvement
• Grade (4) - Inadequate
• Met
• Not Met with Actions or Enforcement

For further information about Ofsted grades and to view Ofsted reports please visit: Ofsted Online