Registering a new childcare business with Ofsted

To set up a new childcare provision you are required by law to register with the Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills (Ofsted). There are some exceptions, and you may not need to register.

Ofsted registration process

Check whether you need to register your new childcare business

There is an Ofsted guide about applying to join the Early Years Register and Childcare Registers.

There is a review process for applications.

Registration visit

Once Ofsted have received your suitability checks and have risk assessed all your application information, they will contact you to arrange an inspection visit.

Details of your new service registration and inspections will be available on the Ofsted Reports website for public viewing.

Further help and contacts

If you have difficulty in completing any forms or need more information about applying, please phone the Ofsted helpline: 0300 123 1231.

You can also contact Services for Young Children