What is school aged childcare?
School aged childcare is before and after school childcare, such as breakfast clubs and after school provision for primary school aged children in England.
The provision typically runs from 8am until 6pm during term time, either on a school site, or another local setting such as a community centre, nursery, or a childminder.
This is different from out-of-school activities, or school activity clubs, which are less frequent and can be a one-off activity.
Who will be eligible for school aged childcare?
All parents in England with primary school aged children should be able to access school aged childcare by September 2026.
How do I access school aged childcare?
Speak to your child’s school to find out what childcare is available.
You can request that your child’s school consider setting up school aged childcare, if they do not already provide it.
How do I pay for school aged childcare?
Providers will set their own fees for childcare places, so prices will vary. Once you have chosen a provider, you would pay them directly for your child’s place.
If you are eligible, you will be able to use Tax-Free Childcare or Universal Credit Childcare to help pay for your place.
You can use the Best Start in Life website to check what support is available to you.
I can’t find a school aged childcare place
If you are unable to find a suitable childcare place, please let us know by completing this form .
Free breakfast clubs
Free breakfast clubs are now available at several primary schools across the borough, offering children a healthy start to the day in a welcoming and supportive environment. These clubs provide free breakfast for up to 30 minutes before the start of the school day, helping pupils arrive in class settled, focused, and ready to learn.
As part of the programme, participating schools open their doors early so that primary aged children can enjoy a nutritious breakfast and spend time with friends before lessons begin.
Below, you will find a list of the schools currently taking part in the programme. Families with children attending these schools are encouraged to speak to the school directly for details on how to access the free breakfast club.
Participating schools:
- Devonshire Road CP School
- Lever Edge Primary Academy
- St Paul’s C of E Primary School
- Kearsley West Primary School
- Gilnow Primary School
- Chery Tree Primary School
- Oxford Grove Primary School