Become a childminder
If you are considering registering with Ofsted as a childminder in Norfolk there are two types of registration you can choose from:
- Childminder - a childminder is someone who is paid to look after at least one child for more than two hours per day. They usually work from their own home but can also work some of the time from approved non-domestic premises
- Childminder without domestic premises (CWDP) - a CWDP is someone who is paid to look after at least one child for more than two hours per day. They are not permitted to childmind from home at any time. Non-domestic premises include church halls and community centres, amongst other facilities
You will find there are lots of things to consider and actions to take before and during the registration process. To support you and ensure you are fully prepared, we offer a free of charge comprehensive package of pre-registration support and guidance, comprising of:
- Access to a 40 minute pre-recorded video 'Thinking of Becoming a Childminder?' which covers:
- Ofsted registers
- Adult: child ratios
- Training courses
- DBS and other checks
- Meeting the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and much more.
- A step by step guide to registration, supporting documents and helpful links
- A phone call or online meeting with an Advisor during which you can ask any questions (you must have watched the recording and accessed the online supporting information prior to attending your meeting).
To request access to the recording, guide and to book your follow-up call, email [email protected]
This summer we are holding a face to face information session at the Morrison's Community Meeting Room in Diss.
Course ref: CM42 Monday 17 August from 1pm to 2.30pm
For more information and to book your place, please email [email protected]
Read our privacy notice to find out how we use your personal information.
Anyone registering with Ofsted as a childminder in Norfolk may be entitled to claim a £600 start-up grant from Norfolk County Council, details of which will be shared during the briefing.
For more information and frequently asked questions visit the Ofsted Website.
Become a childminder
What training or qualifications do registered childminders need to have?
Childminders are required to complete a 12-hour paediatric first aid course every three years. They must also undertake safeguarding training every two years which should reflect the guidance and procedures of the Norfolk Safeguarding Children Partnership.
Childminder applicants need to have appropriate skills, knowledge and a clear understanding of the role and responsibilities in order to provide good quality early years provision. Recommended training routes will be explained in detail during the briefing video.
How many children can a childminder look after?
A childminder may care for a maximum of six children under the age of eight. Of these, no more than three can be aged from birth to 31 August following their fifth birthday, and usually only one child may be aged under one. Exceptions can sometimes be made in agreement with Ofsted. The childminder's own children are included in this ratio.
Ratios are subject to space available within the home and may increase if any assistants are employed. Ofsted will advise when they visit whether there need to be any restrictions placed on the number of children you can care for.
How long does it take to be registered?
It can take approximately 12 weeks to become registered as a childminder, but several factors may influence the timescales in the Ofsted registration process.
How much do childminders earn?
Childminders are self employed and set their own rates. You can research what childminders are charging in Norfolk by using the Norfolk Community Directory.
Can a childminder offer free early learning and childcare?
Yes, childminders can apply to deliver government funded early learning and childcare. To be eligible, childminders must be registered with Ofsted and be rated either 'Good' or 'Outstanding' or be awaiting their first full Ofsted inspection.
Can a childminder have pets?
Yes. Animals can offer children rich learning experiences but childminders will need to have appropriate risk assessments in place to ensure that children are always supervised when in the company of pets. Pet food and litter trays must be inaccessible to children and animals should be kept away from food preparation areas.
Can I be a childminder if I don't have a garden?
Childminders are required to provide children with daily access to an outdoor play area (unless weather conditions make it unsafe). If there is no garden, outdoor activities should be planned and taken daily elsewhere, for example, at a local park, woodland etc.
Do I need police checks?
All childminders are required to undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and to join the DBS update service. Everyone else aged 16 or over, who lives or works in the premises where the childminding will take place, is also required to undergo a DBS check. Guidance on this can be found on the gov.uk website.
How much will it cost to set up a childminding business?
There are costs associated with registering as a childminder such as paying for DBS checks, Ofsted registration etc. You may need to buy certain items such as stair gates, a first aid kit, books etc depending on what you already have in your home. Childminders who have successfully registered with Ofsted in Norfolk may be entitled to claim a £600 reimbursement grant from Norfolk County Council, details of which will be shared during the briefing video.
