Become a childminder or nanny (England)
After you apply
When you submit your application Ofsted will:
- do background checks with local councils
- check your references
- give you a reference number to use if you have questions about your application
If you鈥檙e a childminder
An inspector will visit you to check:
- your identity and qualifications - including first aid qualifications
- your house and garden are safe for children
- that you meet the early years foundation stage (EYFS) requirements and know how to put them into practice
- your level of English
You will not usually get a registration visit if you鈥檙e only looking after children aged over 5.
Find out how to prepare for your registration visit.
If your application is approved
You鈥檒l get a certificate of registration if your application is approved. You will need this to start work as a childminder.
Ofsted will publish your unique reference number (鈥楿RN鈥�) and inspection reports online. If you鈥檙e a childminder they will also publish your name and address - unless you tell them not to.
If your application is refused
Ofsted will send you a legal 鈥榥otice of intention鈥� which will tell you why you鈥檝e been turned down.
If Ofsted refuse your application, you鈥檒l be disqualified from working with children in most settings. You will not be able to apply again.
How to object
You can object if you鈥檝e been sent a 鈥榥otice of intention鈥�.
You must object within 14 days of the date on the notice.
Ofsted will consider your objection, then tell you if:
- you鈥檙e still refused registration
- you cannot look after children in a particular home
- your decision is overturned
If you do not object, or Ofsted does not change its decision, you鈥檒l get a second letter called a 鈥榥otice of decision鈥�. This is the final decision to refuse registration or approval of a certain premises.
Appeal a decision
If you disagree with Ofsted鈥檚 final decision, you can appeal to an independent tribunal.
You must appeal within 3 months of the date that you鈥檙e sent the notice of decision.