how do I register ?
In order to become registered you must first of all complete an application form. This can be done in one of 3 ways:
- You can either visit the Ofsted website and fill in the application form online, or
- You can call Ofsted on 0300 123 1231 and request an application form to be sent to you in the post, or
- You can call Ofsted and ask them to complete the application form for you over the telephone
Once Ofsted has received your completed application form a letter will be send out to you explaining what you need to do next. Some of the information included in the letter will be:
- Information on how you can obtain an enhanced CRB disclosure through Ofsted
- What you need to do in order to get the information that is required by Ofsted checked, such as identity, first aid qualification, insurance documentation. This will take place at the local Post Office as part of their verification scheme
- How to pay the (non-refundable) application fee
Oftsed may also request you to provide other information they consider necessary in order to make an assessment as to whether you are suitable to provide childcare.
The length of time it takes to become registered depends primarily on how long it takes for the CRB check to be completed. This can vary a great deal: from a few weeks to, in a minority of cases, a few months for the process to be complete. You should bear this in mind when it comes time to renew your registration.
You should make sure that you have your public liability insurance and paediatric first aid certificate in place by the time your registration comes through because it can not be applied retrospectively.