The guide to wraparound childcare for primary school parents

Parents
25 October 2024
As a parent of a primary school child, balancing work and family life can be challenging. One solution that many families find invaluable is wraparound childcare.

Wraparound care is care for children before and after school, offering a safe and structured environment supporting parents and children. In this blog post, we’ll look into the benefits of wraparound childcare, current statistics in the UK and how to find the right service for your family.

What is wraparound childcare?

Wraparound childcare refers to the care provided outside of standard school hours, typically before school starts in the morning and after it ends in the afternoon. These services support working parents by offering a reliable and safe place for their children to stay, ensuring they are well-cared for while parents are at work. 

The benefits of wraparound childcare

  • Convenience for working parents: One of the primary benefits of wraparound childcare is its convenience. With extended hours, parents can manage their work schedules without the stress of rushing to pick up their children immediately after school.
  • Safe and structured environment: Wraparound care provides a safe and structured environment where children can engage in various activities. This can include homework support, recreational activities and spending time with friends, all under careful supervision, giving parents peace of mind about their child’s wellbeing.
  • Consistency and routine: A consistent routine is crucial for children. Wraparound childcare ensures children have a stable environment before and after school, which can help their overall development and wellbeing.

Current statistics in the UK

As of March 2023, approximately 36% of parents of primary school children reported using some form of wraparound childcare. This means that around 1.6 million children benefit from these services. However, there are still big gaps in provision. Only 25% of local authorities have sufficient wraparound childcare for parents working full-time with children aged 5 to 11. Over a quarter of local authorities need a clearer understanding of the provision in their area. To address these gaps, the UK Government announced an investment of £289 million over two years, starting September 2024. This funding will support local authorities in providing more comprehensive wraparound childcare services.

Finding the right wraparound childcare 

When looking for wraparound childcare, you might want to consider the following: 

  • Check with your child’s school: Many primary schools offer on-site wraparound care or partner with local providers. This can be a convenient option as it reduces the need for additional travel. 
  • Research local providers: Look for local childcare providers offering wraparound services. Check their credentials, read reviews and visit the facilities to ensure they meet your standards. 
  • Ask for recommendations: Speak to other parents in your community for recommendations. Personal experiences can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided. 
  • Consider your child’s needs: Ensure that the wraparound care provider can cater to your child’s needs, whether it’s homework support, recreational activities or dietary requirements. 

Wraparound childcare is essential for many working parents, providing a safe and structured environment for children outside school hours. By understanding the benefits and current landscape of wraparound care in the UK, you can make informed decisions that best support your family. With the right provider, wraparound childcare can be a valuable resource, helping to balance work and family life more effectively.