The inspectorate is now accepting applications for a new category of childcare provider, childminders without domestic premises, under plans by the Department for Education to make the sector more flexible.
The new category allows childminders to work solely from somewhere other than a home, such as a village hall.
Previously, childminders had to register on domestic premises and spend at least half of their time working from a home address.
Childminders without domestic premises can chose to register their business directly with Ofsted or a childminder agency.
The total number of people who can work together under a childminder’s registration has also increased from three to four, allowing providers more flexibility to work with others, such as co-childminders and childminding assistants.
New guidance from Ofsted explains how the changes will impact childcare providers and how to register under the new provider type.
