Questions to ask a childcare provider

Are you registered with Ofsted?

Settings caring for children under 8 years of age for more than 2 hours per day must be registered with Ofsted. Settings that are registered have to meet minimum childcare standards. These include making sure that the person/people providing the care are suitable to do so and ensuring that health and safety standards are met. Some settings do not have to register with Ofsted. These include settings which look after children over 8 years only and childcare that is provided in the child’s own home. These settings can choose to register on the voluntary part of the Ofsted Childcare Register. By registering on the voluntary part of the childcare register the setting is agreeing to meet a set of standards designed to safeguard children. You can check whether a childcare provider is registered by asking to see their registration certificate, or by contacting Stoke-on-Trent Family Information Service. All settings registered by Ofsted may be inspected at any time. Where Ofsted inspections have taken place, you can ask a setting to show you their most recent report. You may also be able to see the report at http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/. Alternatively contact Stoke-on-Trent Family Informaton Service.