Breakfast and after school clubs

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Wraparound childcare

You may find the following guide useful: Before and after school childcare: Everything you need to know about wraparound care - The Education Hub (blog.gov.uk)


Breakfast clubs

These provide a safe place for your child to wait until school starts and many can provide a healthy low cost breakfast. They normally run for less than two hours and therefore do not need to be registered with Ofsted.

What hours do they open?

This will vary, some start at 7.30am, others at 7.45am or later and will finish when school starts. Some clubs have been able to move their start times so parents can catch a certain train to work so it's worth asking if the times don't meet your needs.

What is the average fee?

The average fee is usually between £2.50 to £5.50 per session depending on the length of time the club is open and the food they offer.

If the club is registered with Ofsted you may be able to get help towards your childcare costs through the childcare element of working tax credit, or universal credit, or by using childcare vouchers or Tax-Free Childcare.


After school clubs

These can provide care and play activities or additional supported study for your child after school has finished. Contact your child's school to see if they offer this provision.

What hours do they open?

Usually they open from the end of the school day and finish around 5.30pm or 6pm. If the times don't meet your needs it may be worth talking to the manager to see if they can offer alternate hours.

What is the average fee?

The average fee is usually between £8 to £15.50 per session depending on the length of time the club is open and the food they offer. Some clubs will offer concessions for siblings.

If the club is registered with Ofsted you may be able to get help towards your childcare costs through the childcare element of Working Tax Credit, or Universal Credit, or by using Childcare vouchers or Tax-Free Childcare.


Who runs them?

It depends on how they are set up, they could be run directly by the school, a private company or a voluntary organisation.


Where do they take place?

Normally on the school site but it may be in a nearby hall.


What ages do they cover?

Most will take children from the age of 4 to 12 years but this is different for each club as it will usually depend on the age of the school they are based in or near to.


What is the ratio of staff to children?

This will depend on the age of the children. Three to eight year olds should have a 1 to 8 ratio. For children aged 9 years and older the ratio differs but a 1 to 10 is recommended where possible. Two members of staff must be present at all times.


Do the staff receive any specific training?

Staff should hold certificates in first aid, food hygiene and safeguarding/child protection. A manager should hold a minimum of a level 3 in a relevant qualification, and 50% of the rest of the staff should hold a minimum of a level 2 in a relevant qualification. However, if they are on the Ofsted Voluntary Childcare Register then the requirement is one person with a minimum of level 2 in a relevant area of work or one person with training in the common core of skills and knowledge.

Staff will also have an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to make sure they are suitable to work with children and young people.


How can I apply for a place?

You can apply for a place by contacting the club directly.


Explore the locations of breakfast, after school and holiday clubs on the map below. 

Page last reviewed: 11/03/2024

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