Register as a childminder agency in England

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After you apply

You’ll be told at the end of your registration visit if you can start working as an agency.

You’ll get a registration certificate in the post that you must display at all times in your workplace.

After you’re registered, Ofsted can either:

  • inspect you
  • visit to check you’re meeting the legal requirements

You must tell Ofsted if there are any changes to anyone named in your application. Email the changes to childminder.agencies@ofsted.gov.uk.

If your application is refused

Ofsted will send you a letter called a ‘notice of intention’ which will tell you why your application has been turned down.

You can object the notice of intention letter.

If you do not object to the notice of intention letter, Ofsted will send you a ‘notice of decision’ letter.

You can appeal the notice of decision letter.

Withdraw your application

You can withdraw your application up until you get a notice of intention to refuse your registration. Your fee won’t be refunded.