Out-of-school care is under the spotlight again this week, with the Kids' Clubs Network launching a campaign to set up facilities for teenagers (see News, page 6). Expansion in this so far neglected area of provision could really help to stop boredom and prevent young people becoming involved in crime. Careful thought will be needed, however, to give 11-to 16-year-olds what they want from a club. Meanwhile, the New Opportunities Fund has handed out 29m more to fund 50,000 out-of-school places and still has further money to allocate under the current scheme (see News, page 4). Deadlines for applications have been extended with two more rounds in April and June next year, so if you're interested in setting up a club you can still go for a grant.
Out-of-school care is under the spotlight again this week, with the Kids' Clubs Network launching a campaign to set up facilities for teenagers (see News, page 6). Expansion in this so far neglected area of provision could really help to stop boredom and prevent young people becoming involved in crime. Careful thought will be needed, however, to give 11-to 16-year-olds what they want from a club.
Meanwhile, the New Opportunities Fund has handed out 29m more to fund 50,000 out-of-school places and still has further money to allocate under the current scheme (see News, page 4). Deadlines for applications have been extended with two more rounds in April and June next year, so if you're interested in setting up a club you can still go for a grant.
Research evaluating the out-of-school hours childcare programme gives food for thought, however, with nearly two-thirds of schemes set up with NOF funding making a loss. Sustainability remains a major problem for new clubs.
Nursery World's next Out of School supplement will be published free with the magazine on 14 November, so make sure you don't miss its invaluable mix of advice, news and activities for everyone involved in playwork.
