Out of school services are for school-age children to play and learn and have fun in groups. They are usually based in or near schools and more are being set up to help families where parents work.

Out of school services can be registered with OFSTED provided they are caring for children aged under 8 years of age for more than two hours a day and more than 6 days a year. They are run outside school hours by a team of staff, usually called playworkers. Activities should be planned to help children learn, play and relax with their friends. Playworkers will often pick children up from local schools.

There are different types of out of school services, so look around to find one that suits you and your child.

Plus points

• Children can learn, relax after school and have fun with their friends.
• Geared to the needs of children with working parents.
  
  

What are the different types of out of school service?

•  Breakfast clubs – open in the mornings before school so children can enjoy breakfast there.

•  After school clubs – open in the afternoons between about 3.30pm and 6pm

•  Before and After Clubs – open in the mornings and afternoons.

•  Holiday playschemes – open during school holidays between about 8.30am and 6pm .

•  In England , out of school services are also sometimes called kids' clubs.

How do I know my child will be safe and secure?

First of all you know your child best – look for an out of school service you feel will be suitable for your child.

Out of school services registered with OFSTED are checked to make sure the staff are suitable to look after children. At least half of them must be trained and there are rules on the ratio of staff to children depending on the ages of the children catered for.

A check is also done on the premises of the registered out of school service to ensure it is safe and suitable for children. After the out of school service is registered an annual inspection is carried out to ensure a safe and suitable service is being provided.

Some out of school services do not currently need to be registered, for example, those which only cater for children aged over eight. You can ask if they are registered.

How many children will there be?

Most out of school services provide places for between 10 and 40 children although some are smaller and others are larger.

What age range of children will be there?

Most children attending out of school services are aged between 5 and 11.

Some services provide places for three and four year olds to fit around nursery or pre-school education.

Some services provide places geared for older children aged 10–14, and sometimes children 15 to 16 with special needs.

When will services be open?

Out of school services can open before school and care for children after school until about 6pm . During the school holidays they are likely to be open between 8.30am and 6pm.

What about part-time childcare?

Many out of school services will be happy to offer you part-time childcare. You may need to book regular sessions to make sure a place is available when you need it.

How much will it cost?

You can expect to pay between £15 and £50 per child per week for an after school childcare place and between £35 and £90 per child per week for a place at a holiday playscheme. However, these are average costs and charges will vary. Many clubs fund-raise to keep fees at a very reasonable rate; others offer reductions for siblings or lone parents.

How do I find an out of school service?

Talk to your local Children's Information Service (CIS) to find out more about the out of school services in your area. The ChildcareLink freephone service will provide details of your local CIS on 08000 960296.