There are lots of different good quality childcare arrangements on offer which you can mix and match to suit your daily schedule, working hours, study or training. But the first step is to find out what's available.

The following must register with Ofsted if they look after children up to eight years old for more than two hours a day, for pay or reward:

• Childminders
• Day nurseries
• Pre school groups
• LEA Nursery schools
• Breakfast Clubs, After School Clubs and Holiday Playschemes
• Ofsted Voluntary Childcare Register

The following do not have to register but they can choose to go on the Ofsted voluntary childcare register:

• Au pairs
• Babysitters
• Creches
• Nannies
• Activity based care (for example sports, drama, language or arts clubs)

  How to find details of Childcare in Surrey

  Surrey Family Information Service hold details of registered childcare in Surrey. We receive this information from Ofsted and it is updated regularly to ensure that it is accurate and up to date. Please contact us if you would like lists of childcare in your local area.

  We also hold information on leisure activities, parent and toddler groups and local childcare providers (who have given their consent to appear on the internet) in our Family Information Directory.

  You can also find details of childcare providers on the national government website www.direct.gov.uk/childcarefinder. (Enter your postcode and use the advanced search option to filter your search).

  If you live near the border of a neighbouring local authority you might like to contact their Family Information Service for details of childcare in their area.

  The extended schools confederation for your child’s school will also have details of childcare, before and after school activities and holiday play schemes for their area.