School Age Childcare

Update: Medway’s Wraparound Childcare Transition into School Age Childcare Initiative

Medway are pleased to share an important update regarding the evolution of the Wraparound Childcare Programme.

Wraparound 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 before school from 8am and after school until 6pm, during term time, either on a school site or another local setting such as a community centre, a nursery, or a childminder. 

As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen access to childcare and support working families, the programme is now being incorporated into the broader School Age Childcare Initiative.

This transition represents a strategic step to create a more joined up and sustainable approach to childcare provision for primary school-aged children in Medway. By aligning Wraparound Childcare with the wider national initiative, Medway aim to improve consistency, quality, and accessibility of services before and after the school day.

Alongside this change, both the Free Breakfast Club offer and the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme will also form part of Medway’s School Age Childcare Initiative. Bringing these programmes together creates a more integrated offer, supporting children not only during term time but also across school holidays, with access to enriching activities and nutritious meals.

Key benefits of this transition include:

• A more cohesive childcare system in Medway that supports families throughout the school day and school holidays

• Increased alignment between before school, after school, and holiday provision

• Continued delivery of Free Breakfast Clubs to support child nutrition and attendance

• Ongoing provision of HAF programmes, offering enriching activities and healthy meals during holidays.

• Greater opportunities for providers to deliver high quality, inclusive provision

Medway will continue to work closely with schools, providers, and local partners to ensure a smooth transition and to maintain the high standards already established across all programmes. 

For more information, please contact Adele Bradley Wraparound Childcare Coordinator: 

Email: adele.bradley@medway.gov.uk

Email: wraparoundprovision@medway.gov.uk 

Please use the link for further information: Best Start in Life