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What Should I Ask on a Primary School Visit? Wrap-Around Care

If, like me, you’re currently exploring primary schools for your child, you’re probably busy visiting lots of schools. These visits are a fantastic opportunity to get a ‘feel’ for the school and ask all the important questions. 🏫


✨ However, as an ‘insider,’ I’ve realised that there are often many ‘unknown unknowns’—things that parents don’t know they need to find out! 🤔💡


One of those areas to consider is what happens before and after the official school day, known in the jargon as ‘wrap-around’ care. 


What is ‘wrap-around’?


At primary school age, it’s becoming more common for parents to rely on their child being looked after at school beyond the traditional 08:30-15:30 period. This is especially true if, like us, both parents are working and have been accustomed to the nursery routine, which usually spans an 08:00-18:00 day. 🕗👨‍👩‍👧‍👦


Schools will often talk to parents about their ‘wrap-around’ care, but there are a few key things to keep in mind and questions to ask:


📝 1. Who Provides and Supervises the ‘Wrap-Around’ Care?


Schools usually highlight their after-school programs, and it’s easy to assume that these are run by the school. However, in many cases, the school buys in this provision. So, while the care takes place on school grounds, it’s not always run by school staff. 🧑‍🏫👥


👉 This isn’t necessarily a ‘problem,’ but it’s worth knowing so you can do a little extra research on the organisations that provide this care. It also helps with communication (or rather, your expectations!) since messages might not always flow smoothly between the school and after-school provider. 🗣️🔍


Breakfast clubs are often organised within the school itself, but it’s still worth asking who runs the session, what breakfast options are available 🥐🍎, and if there are any structured activities during that time.


📝 2. Who Can Participate? Are There Limitations? 


This is something many parents might not initially think about. This provision isn’t always available for all children. For example, there may be a cap on the number of places available for after-school activities, and these limitations may come from the provider rather than school staff. This could mean there’s a waiting list, so it’s good to know this in advance! ⏳📋


Additionally, planning is easier if you know when the provision starts. In some schools, after-school care might not be available for Reception children in the early months. 🚸


It’s also worth asking about the reliability of this provision—how often are sessions cancelled, what notice is given if there are changes, and how is this communicated to parents? 📲🔔


📝 3. What Are the Costs?


This one is pretty self-explanatory, but it’s definitely worth knowing upfront! 💸💡



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