Most children in England get a good start in life. Over two thirds of providers in the early years and childcare sector are judged to be good or outstanding. We know this because we have access to information through Ofsted reports.

Ofsted is the office for standards in education, Children's Services and Skills. They inspect and regulate to achieve excellence in care of our children and young people. They provide fair and truthful reports, communicating their findings and provide recommendations to improve services where they feel necessary.

For many parents it's a daunting experience leaving your child in the care of others, which is why Ofsted-registered providers are checked for safety and suitability for caring for children. All childcare providers caring for children from birth to 31 August after their fifth birthday, must register with Ofsted on the Early Years Register (EYR). All providers on this register must deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which sets the standards for early learning, development and care.

A person or business that is Oftsed registered provides the reassurance that the people and premises are suitable for the care of your child. You can access a registered providers report by visiting www.ofsted.gov.uk, this website also has an Outstanding Providers List 09/10 available for download. This list includes early years registered providers, maintained schools, independent schools, schools, colleges children's social care and other work based learning. The providers listed are those who have been judged Oustanding overall, and we are very lucky to have many of these childminders, nurseries and
pre-schools in our area.

For more information visit www.ofsted.gov.uk