Ratios

[McKenzie]

Hi All, I've got a lady coming to see me this weekend regarding care for her 3 year old from 15:45 - 19:30 a few evenings a week. At the moment I have several children who leave at 4, which would mean I only have a crossover of 15 minutes where I may go over 3 under fives, is this ok? I'm new to Ofsted variations and stuff, do I just ring Ofsted? Also I don't want to scupper myself if I end up with a current child's hours extending to 5pm for example. I'd really like to take on this evening work as it works well for me and would really help this lady out. Any advice appreciated :)
x

[muffins]

Ofsted no longer sort out variations for changes in numbers/ratios we are now to do it ourselves, BUT it does state it is for existing children only or siblings of existing children NOT for new business. So no you cant go over your numbers in this case as its for new business, sorry.

[sarah707]

You can only change your normal ratios in exceptional circumstances for continuity of care.

Ofsted are not interested - unless a complaint is made of course and then they will want to see your evidence that you are meeting the requirements.

You should read the wording of the Eyfs and these documents if you are unsure -

Ofsted | Factsheet: childcare - The numbers and ages of children that providers on the Early Years and Childcare Registers may care for (http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/resources/factsheet-childcare-numbers-and-ages-of-children-providers-early-years-and-childcare-registers-may-c)

Variations2012 (http://www.childmindinghelp.co.uk/freeresources/Free%20downloads/variations2012.html)

Changes to Conditions of Registration (http://www.childmindinghelp.co.uk/freeresources/Free%20downloads/changestoconditionsofregistration.html)

Hth :D

[Chatterbox Childcare]

15 minutes is a very short time. Could you ask the current mum to collect 15 mins early on the days that you need, she may be late of course!