Ofsted’s latest statistics on providers and outcomes reveal a net loss of 339 providers on the early years register between 31 August 2024 and 31 March 2025.
According to the figures, the fall in providers is largely due to a continuing decline in the number of childminders, with more leaving the sector than joining over the seven-month period. This is in contrast to nurseries where more opened than closed.
As of 31 March 2025, there were 23,708 childminders on the early years register, providing 153,441 places.
As childminders tend to look after fewer children than other early years providers, the number of childcare places have not fallen, but in fact increased.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
