Policies and procedures are essential to the success of your childcare business. They set expectations as to how you and any staff will meet the framework and regulations applicable to your setting.

What is the difference between policy and procedure?

A policy is a written statement about how you will work in one area of your practice and a procedure is a series of actions that describe how you will deliver the policy. The Information Commissioner’s Office say that ‘Policies and procedures provide clarity and consistency, by communicating what people need to do and why.’ Effective policies and procedures help you ‘to take the practical steps to comply with your legal obligations.’

Well considered policies and procedures that reflect the values and ethos of your setting establish what you will do in a particular situation and most importantly why. They help prevent ambiguity, promote consistency, and establish a professional and effective setting, keeping you, your staff and the children safe.

Decide what policies you need. Some will be necessary to meet the requirements of your nations frameworks and regulations, and other are helpful to run your business however before writing a policy on absolutely everything– ask yourself ‘Do I really need it?’.

England

Group or school-based providers are required to have policies and procedures in accordance with the Early years foundation stage statutory framework. These include:

Wales

A registered day care setting must have clear policies and procedures in place in accordance with the requirements of the National Minimum Standards for Regulated Childcare. These are:

Exclusive member only resources

• Childcare Professional magazine article: Your safety net – PACEY experts and members advice on creating, implementing and reviewing policies and procedures in your setting. (Spring 2024 issue)

England

• Sample policies templates for all the core policies and procedures as required by the Early years foundation stage statutory framework. Including a guide to drafting your own policies.

Wales

• Guidance for writing and reviewing your policies and procedures for all those required by the National Minimum Standards for Regulated Childcare.