Set up a day nursery or pre-school

You need to register with Ofsted before you can look after children from birth to 8 years of age.

The registration process and training requirements for a prospective childcare business to care for children from birth to 5 can be found on the Ofsted website.

Before applying to Ofsted, email us at tania.hall@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or call us for support and advice on 07834 568 934.

We also provide information on a range of services that can help with starting a business, covering funding, support and mentoring.

Planning advice

You can find out if you need planning permission. Our planning service also offers pre-application advice.

Consultation with a Senior Early Years Childcare Adviser

To arrange a consultation for advice and guidance to set up your business.

Please contact tania.hall@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or call us for support and advice on 01202 817 894.

Useful early years websites

We have put together a list of useful websites which may be helpful.