Last year, visiting and inspecting around 55,000 childminders cost Ofsted £21.1m - nearly £400 per year per childminder. Yet there are concerns over inspections.
A recent study by Oxford University and the Daycare Trust found that Ofsted childcare ratings are an unreliable measure of quality. Childminders follow the early years framework and those receiving funding are expected to be a member of a childminding network. These networks were set up to provide peer support and training but vary considerably from area to area and can be difficult to sustain in disadvantaged areas. Often, the different forms of support and inspection are not well co-ordinated.
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