Information on Ofsted

Any person or organisation looking after children under eight years of age for more than two hours daily and for more than six times in any year must register with Ofsted.

The new Ofsted – the Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills – came into being on 1 April 2007. It brings together the wide experience of four formerly separate inspectorates. Her Majesty’s Chief Inspectorate of Schools at the Office for Standards in Education Early Years Directorate, is responsible for the regulation of day care and childminding in England. It will inspect and regulate care for children and young people, and inspect education and training for learners of all ages.

Childcare providers must meet a set of national standards for registration. These are minimum standards required by Ofsted to ensure the five outcomes in ‘Every Child Matters’ can be achieved by all children.

Locally Gill Pink is the Regulation, Advice and Support Officer for the Early Years Service providing the link between prospective, current providers and Ofsted.

Gill can be contacted on 01983 537501 or e-mail: gillian.pink@iow.gov.uk and is based at the Family Information Zone, 11 Orchard Street, Newport.