Each childcare setting requires separate Ofsted registration with its own unique reference number (URN). You cannot operate multiple sites under one registration. Each site is inspected and graded independently.
Applies to: Providers opening additional nurseries or preschools
Official guidance (opens in a new tab)
Apply for new registration well before opening your second site - it typically takes around 12 weeks from acceptance of a complete application. Complete full application including premises checks, DBS, and policies.
Any organisation (such as a limited company) registered with Ofsted must have a nominated individual who represents it to Ofsted - this applies from your first setting, not just when you expand. The nominated individual provides strategic oversight across all your registrations. DBS check required.
Applies to: All organisations registered with Ofsted, from their first setting
Official guidance (opens in a new tab)
Each childcare setting must have a named manager who is on-site day-to-day and responsible for EYFS compliance. The manager must hold an approved Level 3 qualification. If the manager changes, notify Ofsted as soon as reasonably practicable and at the latest within 14 days.
Applies to: All childcare settings
Official guidance (opens in a new tab)
Under Ofsted's renewed framework you receive a report card grading each evaluation area on a 5-point scale, from Exceptional to Urgent improvement - there is no single overall grade. Strong outcomes across the evaluation areas increase parent demand, occupancy, and fees. All settings are inspected at least once within a 4-year window, with no frequency reduction for high performers. Use your report card in marketing and local authority funding negotiations.
Official guidance (opens in a new tab)
Focus on the evaluation areas: inclusion, curriculum and teaching, achievement, behaviour and routines, children's welfare and well-being, and leadership and governance - with safeguarding judged separately as met or not met.
When acquiring an existing childcare business, conduct thorough due diligence : review Ofsted inspection reports, check compliance with EYFS, verify staff qualifications and DBS checks, assess occupancy and funding streams, review lease/property ownership.
Applies to: Businesses acquiring childcare settings
Submit new registration application immediately after acquisition completes. Coordinate with previous owner to minimize operational disruption.
When acquiring an existing nursery, staff typically transfer under TUPE (Transfer of Undertakings Protection of Employment). You inherit their contracts, pay, and employment rights. Redundancies immediately after transfer risk TUPE claims.
Applies to: Businesses acquiring childcare settings with staff
Official guidance (opens in a new tab)
Inform and consult staff about the transfer. Honour existing contracts and terms. Take specialist HR or legal advice on TUPE compliance.
Each franchise location is independently Ofsted-registered under the franchisee's name, not yours. Franchisees are responsible for their own EYFS compliance, staff, and quality. You cannot control day-to-day operations - only provide systems and training.
Applies to: Childcare businesses offering franchise opportunities
Register your childcare brand as a trademark before franchising to prevent unauthorized use and protect franchise value.
Expanding existing nursery premises or changing use of a building to childcare requires planning permission (change of use to Class E(f) in England - day nurseries; the former D1 class still applies in Wales). Submit planning application to local authority - can take 8-13 weeks.
Applies to: Providers expanding premises or converting buildings
Official guidance (opens in a new tab)
Submit planning application for change of use or extensions. Consult neighbors early to reduce objections.
Inform Ofsted of any significant premises changes (extensions, additional rooms, increased capacity). Ofsted may re-inspect premises.
Submit variation application to Ofsted with evidence of adequate space, staffing plan for higher ratios, and updated risk assessments.
Explore funding options: business loans, asset finance for equipment, investor capital for multi-site growth, franchisor fees.