Find childcare: childminders

Childminders must register with Ofstedor a Childminder Agency (see more information below). They will have an inspection by Ofsted or the agency to make sure they provide a safe and happy environment.

A childminder can look after 6 children under 8 years old, 3 of whom can be under 5 years, and 1 under 1 year, at any time (permission can be granted for twins) for more than two hours a day.

Childminders must have a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for every person over 16 years of age living or staying in their home. They're required to follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for all children.
 

Find a local childminder

You can find childminders on our West Berkshire Directory.
 

Should my childminder be registered with Ofsted?

Anyone who looks after one or more children under the age of 8, to whom they are not related, on domestic premises, for payment, and for more than two hours a day. must register as a childminder. This can be with Ofsted or a Childminder Agency.

There are some exemptions, where a provider may not need to be registered - you can find more information about childminder registration on the GOV.UK website.

You may be entitled to help with childcare costs.

You can find help and advice for choosing the right childcare for you on the Best Start in Life website and useful guides from Coram Family and Childcare.