Early years and childcare: For Parents and carers

About the two early years and childcare registers

An early years and childcare provider can apply to join one register, or both registers at the same time or separately.

The Early Years Register

The Early Years Register is for providers caring for children from birth until the 31 August after their fifth birthday – this is known as the early years age group. These providers must be able to deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage; this is the framework for the care, learning and development of children in the early years age group.

The Early Years Foundation Stage is available on the:

The Childcare Register

The Childcare Register has providers who care for children from birth to 17 years. It has two parts:

  • the compulsory part
    Providers must register if they care for one or more children following their fifth birthday until they reach their eighth birthday.
  • the voluntary part
    Providers who are not required to register on the compulsory part may choose to register here. These are mainly people looking after children aged eight and over, or providing care in the child’s own home like a nanny.

Registration not required

Most providers caring for children aged under eight must register with us; however, the law does say that some providers are not required to do so.

Our Registration not required factsheet explains which types of providers do not have to register with us.
 

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Annual Report 2011/12

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