Domestic Childminders and Non-Domestic Childminders
In 2024, the Department for Education improved flexibility for childminders. This offers them greater choice and allows them to operate in a wider range of environments.
Domestic Childminder
Domestic childminders host children in their own home or a registered domestic setting. Either way the setting must be registered with Ofsted. It must also meet domestic childcare regulations.
The home-like setting offers a family-oriented and familiar environment for children.
There are restrictions on how much time they can work outside their home. There used to be a 50% limit for non-domestic premises. However, recent changes allow more flexibility to spend time in non-domestic settings.
Typically they care for a small group of children, usually with a set ratio of children per adult.
Non-Domestic Childminder
A non-domestic childminder operates from a location other than their home. This could be a commercial property, community centre, or other childcare facilities.
They must register with Ofsted specifically for non-domestic premises. Ofsted assesses the premises for suitability, safety, and compliance.
They offer more flexibility with location and working hours. Can work from non-domestic premises without restrictions on time spent there.
They may work with larger groups of children. This is due to fewer restrictions on the size of the premises.
They provide care in a more formal, structured environment. Potentially with access to more specialized resources or larger spaces for children.
Key Differences
- Domestic childminders work from home. Non-domestic childminders use commercial or non-residential spaces.
- Non-domestic childminders have greater flexibility with hours and space usage.
- Both must register with Ofsted. However non-domestic childminders undergo extra assessments. This ensures suitability of their non-domestic premises.
- Non-domestic childminders might have the opportunity to care for larger groups of children. However this depends on the premises.
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