In 2007, The Ofsted Childcare Register (OCR) replaced the Childcare Approval Scheme (CAS). The arrangements mean that all childcare (in England) can be registered by Ofsted, if they meet the requirements.
Ofsted operate two registers: the Early Years Register (EYR) and the Ofsted Childcare Register (OCR). Since September 2008, provision for children up to the age of five is required to register on the EYR, unless exempt, and provision for children aged between five and seven is required to register on the compulsory part of OCR, unless exempt. The exemptions apply to childcare provided in the child’s home such as nannies and babysitters, plus childcare in an activity-based setting such as sports coaching or homework support and tuition.
Nannies who would like to become registered with Ofsted can join the voluntary part of the childcare register as long as they meet the criteria. The cost of registration is £103, (including the cost of the CRB check which the government is currently subsidising in full). In order to renew your registration, an annual fee of £103 is payable to Ofsted.
Parents who employ an Ofsted registered nanny can receive some financial contributions towards their childcare costs. There are two types of financial support available: employer-supported childcare vouchers and working tax credits.
In order to become registered with Ofsted you must meet certain criteria:
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You need to have public liability insurance
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You need to have a valid paediatric first-aid certificate
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You need to confirm that you have the core skills in childcare and that you are suitable to work with children. You do not require any formal qualifications if you have sufficient childcare experience. For further details on the Common Core Skills please refer to the Ofsted website. For details of Core Skills training, contact Family Information Services on tel: 0800 234 6346. They can then direct you to a regional office with information on the timing, location and cost of Core Skills training if required.
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You are also required to have an enhanced CRB check but this will be done as part of the registration process. Please note that even if you have already had a CRB check done, another must be carried out (unless your previous check was obtained via Ofsted within the last three years).
*Information gathered from Nannytax 2011
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