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Ofsted registration

All childminders and day-care providers caring for young children - including playgroups, pre-schools, private nurseries, crèches and out-of-school clubs for under eights - must be registered by Ofsted on the Early Years Register (or in Wales, by the Care Standards Inspectorate). Registration includes a criminal records check on anyone involved in providing childcare and an inspection of the premises to look at health and safety and educational welfare issues. Childcare providers caring for older children (aged five to seven years), must join the compulsory part of the Ofsted Childcare Register.

You can check that the childcare provider is registered by asking to see a registration certificate, or by contacting Ofsted. If you have any doubts about a provider, check with your local Families Information Service (FIS). You can get the number of your nearest FIS by calling 0800 234 6346. In England, childcare for children aged eight and over, or care for children of any age that is based around one or two activities, or is provided in the child's home (eg nannies), does not have to be registered by Ofsted. However, if the provider meets the requirements and wishes to register on the voluntary part of the Ofsted Childcare Register it can do so, unless the childcare is provided directly by a school.

• A to Z list of Families Information Services provided by NACIS Opens new window
• Find out more about the compulsory and voluntary parts of the Ofsted Childcare Register Opens new window
• Ofsted's website - check your childcarer's registration or find out how to register yourself Opens new window
• Find out more about the Care Standards Inspectorate for Wales Opens new window

Ofsted inspection reports

Ofsted produce reports when they inspect childcare for children under the age of six. These reports provide detailed information based on the annual inspections.

When Ofsted inspect care that is registered on the Ofsted Childcare Register, they will produce a letter confirming whether or not the registration requirements have been met.

• Search for Ofsted inspection reports by postcode Opens new window

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

Childcare providers caring for children up to five years old need to meet a set of standards for learning and care called the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). To find out more about EYFS, click on the link below.

• Early Years Foundation Stage (birth to five years old)

Investors in Children Quality Assurance schemes

Childcare providers with Investors in Children Quality Assurance schemes accreditation have shown a commitment to quality childcare that is of a high standard, so where possible you may prefer to choose one of these providers.

• More on Investors in Children Quality Assurance schemes Opens new window

Do your own research

It is always a good idea to visit childcare providers yourself - inspections and accreditation are no substitute for parental judgement.

If you're thinking of employing a nanny, bear in mind that compulsory government-sponsored registration and accreditation schemes do not apply to them - although they can join the Ofsted Childcare Register voluntarily. It is up to you, as parent and employer, to make sure that you hire a nanny who will look after your children well.

• Search for childcare and nurseries Opens new window
• Download the booklet 'Looking for childcare' (PDF file, 292K) Opens new window
• Guidance on hiring a nanny from Sure Start Opens new window

Reporting concerns and complaints

If you have a concern or complaint you cannot resolve with your registered childcare provider, call Ofsted's Early Years Complaints Helpline on 0845 601 4772. Ofsted does not usually become involved in complaints over fees and contractual arrangements.

More useful links

• Find out about school holiday schemes near you Opens new window