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The updated EYFS framework for childminders brings some exciting new guidance that focuses on enhancing flexibility and adaptability in providing care. This framework allows childminders to tailor their approaches to meet the unique needs of each child, particularly regarding health, safety, and welfare requirements. For instance, childminders can now operate outside of domestic premises, utilising spaces like community halls, schools, or forest schools.

One of the significant changes is the introduction of a new category: the ‘childminder without domestic premises.’ This category is designed for those who work entirely from non-domestic settings, reflecting the Government’s commitment to expanding childcare entitlements and ensuring that all children receive the best possible start in life.

Additionally, childminders will now be able to have four individuals working together under their registration, including the childminder themselves. This is an increase from the previous limit of three. For those providing care in domestic settings, the requirement has shifted from needing four or more caregivers to needing five or more.

Under the new regulations, at least half of the childminder’s provision must still occur in domestic premises. However, from 1st November, there will be two distinct categories of childminder: childminders with domestic premises and childminders without domestic premises.

For those already registered as childminders, there’s no need for immediate action regarding these changes. They will automatically benefit from the new flexibilities, including the ability to work with an additional childminder or assistant under their registration. This means childminders can continue to grow in their profession while providing high-quality care tailored to each child’s needs.