What ‘Ofsted registered’ actually means for parents
Lots of clubs say they are Ofsted registered. Here is what the registration involves and why it matters when choosing childcare.
Ofsted is the government body that regulates childcare in England. Any provider looking after children for more than two hours a day has to register with them, and both of our settings are on the register.
What registration involves
- Checks on people. Everyone working with children has an enhanced DBS check, and the person running the setting is checked for suitability.
- Checks on premises. The space has to be safe, secure and suitable for the number and age of children.
- Policies and records. Safeguarding, first aid, attendance records, complaints procedures and insurance all have to be in place.
- Inspections. Ofsted can inspect at any time and publishes its findings.
Why it matters to you
Beyond the reassurance, registration is what lets you pay for our care with Tax-Free Childcare or claim it back through Universal Credit. Unregistered clubs do not qualify.
Check for yourself
Every registered provider has a unique reference number (URN) and a public page on the Ofsted website. Ours are EY557846 for Barking and 2649415 for Stanmore.
