What Ofsted Really Looks for During a Childminder Inspection Interview

The Questions They Ask, What They’re Assessing, and How to Answer with Confidence

For many aspiring childminders, the most nerve-wracking part of registration isn’t preparing the home or completing paperwork – it’s speaking to the Ofsted inspector.

People often worry:

• “What if I say the wrong thing?”

• “What if I don’t know an answer?”

• “Are they trying to catch me out?”

• “Do I need to memorise policies word for word?”

The good news is this:
Ofsted is not testing your memory, they’re assessing your understanding and judgement.

This guide explains what inspectors are really looking for during a childminder inspection interview, the types of questions they ask, and how to answer confidently without sounding scripted.

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What Is the Childminder Inspection Interview?

During your pre-registration visit, the inspector will have a structured conversation with you. This usually takes place alongside:

• A tour of your home

• A review of your paperwork

• Observation of how you’ve prepared your environment

The interview allows Ofsted to assess whether you:

• Understand your responsibilities

• Can safeguard children

• Can apply the EYFS in practice

• Are ready to operate independently

It is not a pass/fail exam, it’s a professional discussion.

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What Ofsted Is Really Assessing

Inspectors are not expecting perfection. They are looking for:

✔ Knowledge

Do you understand safeguarding, ratios, EYFS basics, and safety?

✔ Judgement

Can you make sensible decisions that prioritise children’s welfare?

✔ Awareness

Do you know what to do if something goes wrong?

✔ Confidence

Can you explain your reasoning calmly and clearly?

If you show these four things, you are already in a strong position.

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Common Ofsted Questions (and What They’re Really Asking)

Below are typical questions and what the inspector is actually assessing.

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“How do you keep children safe in your care?”

They want to hear about:

• Supervision

• Risk assessments

• Safeguarding awareness

A good answer includes:

• Preventative measures

• Awareness of risks

• What you’d do if a concern arose

You don’t need to list every policy, explain your approach.

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“What would you do if you had a safeguarding concern?”

This is one of the most important questions.

They are checking:

• Do you recognise signs of abuse or neglect?

• Do you know not to investigate yourself?

• Do you know who to report concerns to?

Mention:

• Local safeguarding procedures

• Recording concerns

• Reporting appropriately

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“How do you support children’s learning and development?”

This links directly to the EYFS.

Inspectors want to hear that:

• You observe children

• You follow their interests

• You support next steps

Simple examples are best:

“If a child shows interest in counting, I’d introduce number games or counting during play.”

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“How do you manage behaviour?”

They are not looking for punishment.

They want reassurance that you:

• Understand age-appropriate behaviour

• Use positive strategies

• Support emotional development

Avoid phrases like “naughty” or “punishment” focus on guidance and support.

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“How do you communicate with parents?”

They are checking:

• Professional boundaries

• Information sharing

• Partnership with parents

Good answers include:

• Daily handovers

• Sharing development progress

• Discussing concerns appropriately

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What Happens If You Don’t Know an Answer?

This is important:

👉 It is okay to say you would seek guidance.

Ofsted would rather hear:

“I would refer to the EYFS or local safeguarding guidance”

than a confident but incorrect answer.

They are assessing judgement, not memorisation.

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How to Prepare Without Sounding Scripted

The best preparation is:

• Understanding the why behind the rules

• Practising explaining your approach in your own words

• Knowing where to find information if unsure

Avoid memorising answers word for word, inspectors can tell.

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Common Interview Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Overcomplicating answers
❌ Using jargon without understanding it
❌ Trying to impress rather than explain
❌ Guessing instead of being honest
❌ Contradicting your written policies

Clarity always beats complexity.

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Confidence Comes from Preparation

Most childminders who feel anxious about the interview simply haven’t been shown what to expect.

Once you understand:

• The types of questions

• What Ofsted is assessing

• How to explain your thinking

The inspection becomes far less intimidating.