Variation Form – Record and Permission to Vary Ratios

About this resource

The Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation sets out the staffing arrangements for group care and childminders. It is the responsibility of providers to meet these requirements. Childminders no longer need to apply to Ofsted for a variation and wait to hear if it has been granted. If a childminder can demonstrate to parent/carer(s) and inspectors that the individual needs of all the children are being met, then exceptions to the usual ratios can be made, for example when childminders are caring for sibling babies, caring for their own baby or providing continuity of care for existing children in their care. But in all circumstances, the total number of children under the age of eight being cared for must not exceed six.

If you want to vary your numbers for the reasons stated above, this form allows you to record details of each variation.