You can find more information on the registration process and Ofsted registers on the following websites:

gov.uk/become-childminder-nanny/register-childminder

https://childmindinguk.com/becoming-a-childminder

You will have to be 18 years old. You and all the adults living or working at the home you want to mind from will be required to have a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. You will be inspected by Ofsted initially to register you and then again every 3 to 5 years.

Ofsted operates two registers

The Early Years Register: All childcare providers looking after children under 5 must register on this and follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

The Childcare Register: This register is for providers looking after children under 8 years, and is divided into two parts:

The Compulsory Childcare Register: All childcare providers looking after children between the age of 5 and 8 must join this register and meet the requirements
The Voluntary Childcare Register: This is for providers who do not have to register with Ofsted i.e. look after children older than 8 years only, but would like to register with Ofsted so parents can benefit from tax credits and childcare vouchers

Most childminders join all three registers so they can care for children of all ages and you can apply online with Ofsted.

For you to be approved by Ofsted, you must have:

Completed a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for yourself and everyone over 16 years in the home you will be minding from
Completed all relevant courses (see above)
Have your health declaration check signed by your GP

You will need to provide the following details to Ofsted before you can register:

details of your training
your signed health check
registration fee
completed DBS checks
two references from people who know you in a caring capacity

Ofsted will need to carry out an inspection of the home you want to mind from, as well as an interview with you. A registration certificate will then be posted to you once you have proven suitability. You cannot start looking after children before you receive your certificate.

It takes approximately 12 weeks to become registered with Ofsted. You will have to attend information sessions and training before you are able to register with Ofsted.