Early years provision

An early years group care provision is usually on non-domestic premises.

Childcare on non-domestic premises is where childcare is provided on premises which are not somebody’s home, for example in purpose-built premises, village halls and a school premises. Such childcare normally includes nurseries pre/after school clubs and holiday clubs.

Most childcare providers caring for children aged under eight, must register with Ofsted unless the law says they are not required to do so.  Early years providers caring for children from birth up to the 31 August after their fifth birthday must register on the Early Years Register unless they are exempt.  View Ofsted registration exemptions

All registered childcare providers must follow any relevant legislation, including laws about health and safety, disability discrimination, food hygiene, fire and planning requirements.  View Ofsted registration requirements

To be registered on the Early Years Register you will need to:

• Meet all the safeguarding, welfare, and the learning and development requirements of the statutory requirements for the Early Years Foundation Stage.
• Ensure that every person looking after children on the premises where childcare is provided is suitable to look after young children, and that those living or working on the premises are suitable to be in regular contact with young children.

Read the following information for further details about the registration process

• Pre-registration briefing for those wishing to become childcare provider

Information about the registration process for nurseries, playgroups, before- and after-school clubs, and other childcare provided on non-domestic premises can be found in the guidance below. This guidance includes registration requirements, fees, who should apply, and how to make changes once registered:

• Nurseries and other daycare (childcare on non-domestic premises): registration

Register your interest in starting an early year’s provision using the online form below:

• start a childcare business enquiry form

Once you have registered your interest, an officer from the Early Education Development (EED) Team will then contact you to discuss your plans and provide relevant advice.