A pilot scheme is currently being undertaken by Devon County Council’s Early Years and Childcare Service together with the Extended Schools Service.

Primary and secondary schools in East Devon are being invited to participate in a pilot scheme linking schools and childcare providers.

The school-childcare link scheme aims to offer parents the chance to find childcare through their child’s school.

Background to the school-childcare link

The Government is asking primary and secondary schools in England to become extended schools by 2010.

An extended school's service should amongs others include the following:

• Wraparound childcare from 8am-6pm all year round.
• A varied menu of activities (homework clubs / study support, sport, music tuition, special interest clubs, volunteering).
• Parenting support.

Schools are being advised to make the most of already existing childcare provisions when setting up their extended services.

This childcare could be provided by existing group based childcare – working in partnership with an out of school club or holiday playscheme, a voluntary pre-school or a private day nursery providing out of school care.

Alternatively this care could be provided through home-based childcare by registered childminders. Childminders have a huge part to play in helping schools to provide childcare in a family-friendly, flexible and affordable way.

Some Benefits of working with existing childcare providers

• Collect and drop off children at school
• Provide care for schoolchildren’s younger siblings
• Provide individual care for disabled children and those with additional needs
• Contracts negotiated directly with parents. Schools do not get involved in the financial and legal aspects of the childcare provision
• Younger siblings become familiar with the school they are likely to attend, making friends first in the playground before starting school

Introducing the scheme to your school

• Schools in East Devon may register their interest by 31 March 2006
• Learning communities will be visited by the scheme's representative
• Childcare providers sign up their interest with the scheme's representative
• School provides list of childcare providers to parents on request

Find out more

Contact your extended schools local co-ordinator for further details about the school-childcare link pilot scheme. Find contact details here.

Related websites

Teachernet - Extended Schools

SureStart - Extended Schools

national remodelling team - Extended Schools: What does it mean for headteachers?

Devon County Council - Extended Schools Service

Devon County Council - Information for Children and Families 'DISC'