"Why do I need to register with Ofsted?" asked a nanny on the phone today.
"You don't need to register however if you are looking for work then you will stand a better chance of finding a job if you are registered." I amswered
"Why?" she asked
"Because a family can only claim back their tax credits if they employ an Ofsted registered nanny.”
"But then surely they should pay for me to be registered" was her retort.
Of course there might be some truth in this but with the economy in decline and families thinking twice about employing nannies, I explained that it might be sensible for her to take the initiative and pay to get herself registered.
She sighed "So how do I do it?"
Luckily Safe and Sound has written a guide for nannies and parents. We did this after many many calls from confused nannies, au pairs and parents who had called Ofsted and been directed to their site - but find the site muddled and confusing. And when they tried to talk to someone at Ofsted they still did not understand. I am not sure Ofsted really understand themselves.
So here is our Safe and Sound Guide to the Voluntary Ofsted Registration for child carers looking after children in other people's homes.
Parents who employ an Ofsted registered nanny can receive some financial contributions towards their childcare costs. There are two types of financial support available: employer-supported childcare vouchers and working tax credits.
You can find out more about what this means for you financially by going to: www.taxcredits.inlandrevenue.gov.uk
The Registration Process
Step 1
Nannies and Au Pairs complete the initial online application form (CR1) available at http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/resources/application-forms-for-childcare-register-forms-cr1-and-cr2Ofsted.gov.uk
You can also apply by phone (0300 123 1231) or post.
Step 2
Ofsted will send out an invoice and a request for further information including the following documents:
1. A valid paediatric first aid certificate
2. Evidence of an appropriate childcare qualification covering the Common core skills and knowledge (for further info go to http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/resources/factsheet-childcare-common-core-skills-and-knowledge)
3. A valid nanny insurance certificate
4. A completed CRB application form (Ofsted will carry out the CRB check as part of the registration process)
Step 3
Submit the documents at a local post office where the applicant’s identity will be verified. Once Ofsted has checked all documentation, carried out the CRB check, and is satisfied the applicant meets their criteria; they will issue a certificate of registration with a unique registration number.
How much does it cost to register?
Ofsted registration fee (includes CRB check) £103
Safe and Sound Paediatric First Aid course £114 (£100*)
Safe and Sound Common Core Skills course £135 (£120*)
*If both courses are booked together the discounted rates apply
Nanny Insurance Approximately £65
Who should be expected to cover the cost?
Whilst parents benefit financially, Ofsted registration may enhance a nanny or au pair’s professional qualifications and employability and so both parties benefit from registration. There are no hard and fast rules as to who should pay for what but as a professional childcarer it is not unreasonable to expect nannies to pay for their first aid training and insurance. It is worth mentioning that if the parents do pay for the registration it is considered a benefit in kind and should be declared as such.
How long does it take to get registered?
Once your application and supporting documents have been submitted, you need to allow approximately 12 weeks to get your registration certificate through.
Good Luck
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