School-aged children need safe care after school and during school holidays, right through primary education and often into the first couple of years of secondary education.

Out of school services will be registered with the Ofsted Early Years Directorate who will carry out an inspection of provision for children under the age of 8 years old.

Some out of school services do not currently need to be registered; for example, those which only cater for children aged over eight. You can ask if they are registered.

Ideal if:

You cannot collect your child from school, and want a safe place for them to enjoy a range of sports and creative activities with children of a similar age
Your child wants a place to play and have fun with friends after school
You have older children who you would like to be supervised by adults, some clubs offer facilities and support for homework

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Frequently asked questions about out-of-school care e.g. What age range of children will there be?

Search for a provider

Search the Family Information Directory for childcare providers by area, town and postcode.

What Should I Check? (PDF, 33KB) gives information about Criminal Records Bureau (CRB), Ofsted and the Independent Safeguarding Policy.

Help with choosing childcare

Choosing childcare checklist- what to look for when visiting a childcare provider.

Can I get some advice?

Leicestershire County Council’s Family Information Service offers impartial advice and guidance, or a tailored package of support to help you make the right decision. Contact a dedicated advisor on 0116 305 6545 or email family@leics.gov.uk