Step one: Pass Disclosure and Barring Service checks (DBS) and Health Checks

• Disclosure and Barring Service checks are statutory for everyone over 16 years in your household. Ofsted strongly recommends signing up for the Disclosure and Barring Update Service for an annual fee of £13. Your Disclosure and Barring Service checks (DBS) certificate will be kept up-to-date using this service.
• A Health declaration check needs to be completed by your doctor.

Step two: Complete essential training

• A 12-hour Paediatric First Aid Training course. See the SCIL Early Years Courses
• Somerset Safeguarding Training – Introduction to Child Protection.
• Training in the Early Years Foundation Stage is not mandatory. Still, you must show Ofsted that you have the necessary skills and knowledge, along with an understanding of your duties, to deliver quality early years education. Somerset provides two free webinars for optional training based on your expertise.
• If you register your interest to become a childminder in Somerset, you will receive information to access a free EYFS Childminder training webinar to support the development of your knowledge in the early years.

Step three: Apply to the correct register

• Early Years Register – If you will be looking after children aged 0 to 5.
• Childcare Register – If you will be looking after children aged 5 and over.

Step four: Get ready for your Ofsted visit

• You will need to source safety resources (for example, a fire blanket and stair gates) and suitable toys and ensure your environment meets the Early Years Education Stage statutory welfare requirements. This includes the correct floor space and toilet and handwashing facilities.
• Arrange a home visit from Jo.
• Risk assess your home and garden.

Step five: Follow legal requirements

• Register with HMRC (HM Revenues and Customs) as you will be self-employed.
• Register with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
• Purchase Public Liability Insurance.
• Check your home and car insurance covers business.