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In a preschool, I know that there has to be a certain ratio of adults to children (more for under 2s) but I can find any info on t'internet about whether an adult needs to be CRB checked before they can be included in that ratio?

I know an adult needs to be CRB checked before they can be left alone with kids at any point but if this doesn't happen, what about the ratios?

Thanks!

Bump.

Please?!

Well it may have changed in the last year, but we used to be able to include a carer in our ratios who were fully interviewed etc and were just awaiting CRB clearance at our discretion on the understanding they were never left alone with children and didn't do nappies. CRB must always be done for permanent members of staff or regular volunteers.

This was allowed at a time when it was taking over 6 weeks for checks to come back, they're usually quicker now.

FWIW the CRB is a paper exercise to tick a box.
Doesn't mean they're not a paedophile just that they haven't been caught, sadly (if that's your way of thinking)

I'm sure someone more up to date will come along if I'm wrong!

Yes they can count in the ratio (if over 18) but can't be left alone.

Thats interesting,
in the Statutory Guidance it says
"Children aged 2 in any EYs setting,

There must be a member of staff for every 4 children

At least 1 member of staff must hold a full and relevent level 3 as defined by CWDC.

at least half all other staff must hold a full and relevent level 2 as defined by
CDWC"

I have been given to understand by The pre school I work in, I cannot be included in the staff numbers as Im unqualified (studying my level 3)

You don't have to be qualified to be counted in the adult ratio (anyone over 18 can count) but there has to be a ratio of qualifed to unqualified staff. There's no rule that an unqualified member of staff can't be alone with the children so long as they are CRB'd - eg taking a small group of children outside or to another room.

Thanks, much appreciated.

Do you happen to know where I can find this info officially online?

DofE website has lots of information under Early Years

Everything you've told me is very interesting. I am now particularly interested in the bit about needing to be over 18 to be counted in ratios. Does anyone know where I can find this online?

Apologies for not giving details as to why I want this info, but I'm afraid I can't!

Sorry Flora - for some reason only just seen your post! Will look there - thanks.

Can't find anything being specific about 'adults' meaning person over 18. Any suggestions?!

I think it is a new recommendation from Ofsted - it may not have come into force yet though. It used to be 17 and over for ratios.

In the statutory framework for the EYFS it states "staff/volunteers/ students under the age of 17 cannot be counted towards the ratio and should be supervised at all times.Individuals aged 17 and over who are on long term placements may be included in the ratio if the provider is satisfied they are competent and responsible" (p32)

You can include adults in ratios if they are not crbed as long as they are supervised at all times
anewyear you can be included in ratios if you are not qualified
"all supervisors and managers must hold a level 3 and half of all other staff must hold a level 2"
(p31)

Thanx Purepurple

That is brilliant - thank you very much!

It tkes a while to dig down to what you need but the OFSTED website has it all.

Your Early Years Development team should be able to help with guidance and also any local variations or requirements.