Many schools provide access to a variety of activities beyond the school day. These can range from high quality childcare to activities such as music, art, sport or additional study support. As a result the school is often open from 8.00am to 6.00pm, all year round.

Depending on the hours you work, you can opt for a combination of:

• breakfast clubs (normally open from 8.00am),
• after-school clubs (typically from 3.30pm to 6.00pm) and
• holiday play schemes (8.00am to 6.00pm), which run outside of term time.

Sometimes referred to as out-of-school clubs, these services are based on school sites, but may also be in youth clubs, community centres or nurseries. Some schools organise the childcare themselves, but others will work with local voluntary groups, private providers and childminders, who will provide staff and sometimes facilities.

For more information on school based care you can contact the Wakefield District Families Information Service on 0800 587 8042 or look on their website (see 'Related Links').