Why Early Years matters
High quality early years care helps children learn, grow and feel confident. It gives families childcare that fits around work, study and daily routines, while helping children get the Best Start in Life.
Early years provision supports children from birth to age five during an important stage of learning and development.
About Early Years provision
Early years provision includes:
- Nurseries
- Preschools
- Childminders
- School based nursery classes
These settings care for children aged 0–5 and follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
Provision can be run by schools, private providers, charities or childminders. Each setting has its own structure, staff team and approach to learning through play.
How to get started
Thinking about setting up early years provision? Here are the key steps:
- Understand local demand by speaking with families, schools and your local authority
- Decide what type of provision you want to offer
- Check Ofsted registration requirements and ensure your space, staffing and policies meet the standards
- Plan your environment to support safe, engaging and inclusive learning
- Explore funding options and business support available locally or nationally
- Contact Somerset Council for guidance on setup, sustainability and surveying local need
Ofsted registration
If you are caring for children under 8 for more than two hours a day, you must register with Ofsted. There are three registers depending on the age of children and type of care:
- Early Years Register – for children aged 0 to 5
- Compulsory Childcare Register – for children aged 5 to 8
- Voluntary Childcare Register – optional for older children
You will need to meet requirements around:
- staffing ratios
- DBS checks
- safeguarding
- first aid
- premises safety
Types of providers
Early years provision can be offered by:
- Private nurseries and preschools
- School-based nursery classes
- Childminders working from home, or from a non-domestic premises
- Charities and community organisations
Each type of provider may have different registration routes, funding models and staffing structures. Somerset Council can advise on the best fit for your community and goals.
Types of provision
Different early years settings include:
School Based Nurseries
Run by primary schools or academies. Usually offer part time or full time places for children aged 3–5.
Preschools or Playgroups
Often run by community groups or charities. Provide part time, play based sessions for ages 2–5.
Childminders
Registered individuals who care for children in their home or a non domestic space. Offer flexible hours and mixed age care.
Day Nurseries
Private or charity run. Open full day and year round for children from birth to 5, offering structured learning with care.
Models of delivery
The models of delivery can include:
- Foundation Stage Unit (FSU)
A combined provision for nursery and reception-aged children, governed by the school. - Foundation Stage Department
A standalone early years provision, with a separate reception class, governed by the school. - Foundation Stage Partnership
A standalone early years provision, on a school site, delivered by a third party, working in partnership with the primary school.
Building your team
If you are recruiting staff, consider offering apprenticeships to support new entrants into the sector:
- Level 2 Early Years Practitioner – ideal for new starters
- Level 3 Early Years Educator – for those ready to take on more responsibility
- Early Years Teacher Degree Apprenticeship – available from 2026
Apprentices can train while working, helping you build a skilled and committed team.
Supporting families with childcare costs
Registering to accept Tax-Free Childcare can make your service more affordable for families. You’ll need to be Ofsted registered and apply through the HMRC Childcare Provider Portal.
Families on Universal Credit may be able to claim back up to 85% of childcare costs. Help them by issuing clear, prompt invoices with dates, hours, costs, your Ofsted number and payment details.
Start setting up
Setting up early years provision is a valuable way to support children’s development and help families manage their daily routines. Whether you’re expanding an existing service or starting something new, Somerset Council can offer guidance and support.
Early years provision delivered locally contributes to the wider offer available as part of Best Start in Life, helping children thrive from birth through school and beyond.
Contact the Education Places Team for support and to request a localised Childcare Sufficiency Assessment: educationplaces@somerset.gov.uk
Read the latest Childcare Sufficiency Assessment for Somerset.