Becoming an early years provider in Solihull

Anyone providing childcare for children under the age of eight for more than two hours a day may need to register with Ofsted. The section stage 1 - understanding Ofsted registration explains the different Ofsted registers and helps you understand when registration is required.

There are different types of early years provision. The type of provision you offer will determine the register you apply for and the requirements you must meet.

• Video
• Becoming a childminder with domestic premises. (can't open)
• Presentation part 2

• Video
• Presentation

The Early Years Team has developed a 6-stage pathway to guide you through the Ofsted registration process.

Each stage includes recorded presentations and supporting guidance to help you prepare for registration.

• Ofsted registers explained.
• When do you need to register.
• Understanding the Ofsted registration process.
• Presentation
• Ofsted registers
• Understanding ofsted registration
• When do I need to register (can't access)

Before applying to Ofsted, it is important to ensure you are applying for the correct register.

• Choosing the right registration route video.
• Choosing the right registration route document.

Before submitting your application, there are a number of important steps you must complete, including suitability checks.

• Preparing before you apply.
• Suitability checks explained.
• Before you apply.
• Suitability checks. (can't open)

This stage explains how to complete your Ofsted application and what information you will need to provide.

• Making an application to Ofsted video.
• Presentation. (can't open)

Once your application has been accepted, Ofsted will arrange a registration visit. This stage provides detailed guidance to help you prepare.

• Preparing for your registration visit.

Additional video resources:

• Purpose of the premises tour.
• Essential documents.
• Health and safety considerations.
• Risk assessment.
• Outdoor learning.
• Essential equipment and organising resources.
• Common pitfalls.

Documents:

• Presentation PDFs for each topic. (can't open)
• Essential documents
• Additional support premise part 2- risk assessments (can't open)
• Additional support part 3- health and safety (can't open)
• Additional support Organisation of resources (can't open)
• Additional support- common pitfalls. (can't open)

After registration, providers must continue to meet Ofsted requirements and maintain high quality early years provision.

• After the visit - what happens next video.
• Presentation. (can't open)

After the registration visit, Ofsted will review the information gathered and decide whether to grant registration.

Possible outcomes:

• Registration granted.
• Additional information required.
• Registration refused.

Ofsted guidance on registration decisions.

The early years team at Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council can provide guidance to help prospective providers understand the registration process and prepare for registration.

Support may include:

• Clarifying registration requirements.
• Discussing readiness to apply.
• Signposting to relevant guidance.
• Answering general questions about the process.

Advisers cannot complete applications on behalf of providers or guarantee registration.

If you would like support from the Early Years Team while preparing for Ofsted registration, you can request advice from an early years advisor.

To request support, please email:

eyenquiries@solihull.gov.uk

Or phone: 0121 704 6150

Include the following information:

• Your name and contact details.
• Type of provision you plan to register.
• Proposed premises (domestic or non-domestic).
• Age range and numbers of children.
• Current stage of the registration process.
• Any specific questions you have.
• Proposed location.
• Role in the childcare business.

This information helps advisers respond effectively.