26/05/04 - Childcare for the summer break

Cumbria Sure Start is providing support to more and more childcare facilities to ensure parents have sufficient choice when looking for childcare during the six week summer break. If you are a working parent looking for quality, affordable childcare outside school hours you are not alone. Many out of school and holiday clubs have been started across the county to help parents and if there isn’t a facility on your doorstep, help is available to support your efforts to start up your own group.   

An out of school club offers play and care for school aged children at times when school is closed. A typical After School club will open from 3.15pm until 6pm during term-time. A "breakfast club" operates before school starts, and holiday clubs are usually open from 8 – 6 during school holidays. Clubs take place in a variety of settings such as schools, community centres and day nurseries.   

County Councillor Joan Stocker Cabinet Spokesperson for Education says   

"Children attend out of school clubs for many reasons, their parents may be at work or college, or they may just go for fun. Cumbria Sure Start works extremely hard with childcare providers across the County to ensure that we continue to improve the quality, quantity and flexibility of childcare in Cumbria. These type of clubs offer a "home-from-home" environment and children can take part in activities which may not be on offer anywhere else." 

If you would like to find out more about the out of school clubs are available in your area, contact the Children’s Information Service on 08457 125 737.