Everything You Need to Know About Ofsted

What Is Ofsted?

Ofsted stands for the Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills. It’s the government body that inspects and regulates childcare, schools, and other learning services in England.

Nannies can choose to register with Ofsted’s Voluntary Childcare Register (VCR) to demonstrate their professional status and meet specific safeguarding and childcare standards. Unlike nurseries and childminders, nannies are not legally required to register, but doing so offers advantages for both the nanny and the employer.

Benefits of Ofsted Registration

For Employers:

• Access to Tax-Free Childcare & Childcare Vouchers: Families hiring an Ofsted-registered nanny can use the Tax-Free Childcare scheme to save up to 20% on costs.
• Peace of Mind: Registered nannies meet basic safety, first aid, and childcare standards, offering reassurance.
• Professionalism & Accountability: Ofsted registration shows commitment to childcare best practices.

For Nannies:

• Increased Job Opportunities: Many families prefer or require an Ofsted-registered nanny.
• Access to Government Childcare Schemes: Registration makes their services more affordable to families using childcare funding.
• Professional Recognition: Demonstrates commitment to high childcare standards.

How Can I Check if a Nanny Is Ofsted Registered?

You can search the official Ofsted Voluntary Register using the nanny’s name or registration number. Don’t just take their word for it.

Check the Ofsted register

Requirements for Ofsted-Registered Nannies

To be accepted onto the voluntary register, a nanny must meet several criteria. This gives you extra reassurance as a parent.

Nannies must have:

• An Enhanced DBS check (including the children’s barred list)
• A 12-hour paediatric first aid course
• Public liability insurance
• A basic childcare qualification (or completion of a common core skills course)
• A valid right to work in the UK
• An annual Ofsted registration fee (~£100)

Want the Admin Done for You?

Managing nanny employment – especially when Ofsted registration, payroll, and compliance are involved – can feel like a full-time job.

That’s exactly what we take care of – start to finish.

• Registering with HMRC
• Creating a legal employment contract
• Calculating and paying tax, NI and pension
• Sending payslips and making salary payments
• Tracking holidays, sick days or maternity leave
• Verifying an Enhanced DBS check
• Ensuring valid employer’s liability insurance is in place
• Staying compliant with changing employment laws

You focus on your family. We’ll handle the paperwork.

Learn more about nanny payroll service