Breakfast clubs, afterschool clubs and holiday playschemes

After school, breakfast clubs and holiday playschemes serve as useful childcare options for parents who work or study.

Breakfast clubs provide a safe place for your child to wait until school starts

Many breakfast clubs provide a healthy low-cost meal.

After school has finished the clubs provide:

The opening times vary. If the times don't meet your needs, it may be worth talking to the manager to see if they can offer alternative hours.

Holiday clubs offer childcare during the school holidays

Hours of operation vary. Some centres are open throughout the holidays, whereas others offer part-time or half-days.

They're generally open to children aged 4 to 12, although some cater for older children too. They are usually run in schools or leisure centres.

Some activities include arts and crafts, sports, music, drama and outings.

Holiday clubs are also known as 'out of school clubs'

Costs depend on how long your child attends, and the activities the scheme runs. Some have reductions for siblings.

Childminders may also offer before and after school care. Some also provide a school drop-off and pick-up service.