Wraparound childcare is before and after school provision, such as breakfast clubs and after-school care, for primary school aged children in England. It typically runs from 8:00 am until 6:00 pm during term time, either on a school site or at another local venue such as a community centre, nursery, or childminder.
This type of childcare is different from out-of-school activities or school clubs, which are usually less frequent and may be one-off sessions.
Eligibility
By September 2026, all parents in England with primary school aged children should be able to access wraparound childcare.
How to access wraparound childcare
Parents can speak directly to their child’s school to find out what childcare is currently available locally. If the school does not already offer wraparound provision, you can request that they consider setting it up. Requests can be made in writing by letter or email.
You can also search for available options using the directory of wraparound care providers.
Costs and payment
Providers will set their own fees for wraparound places, so prices will vary. Once you have chosen a provider, you would pay them directly for your child’s place.
If you are eligible, you will be able to use Tax-Free Childcare or Universal Credit Childcare to help pay for your place.
Check what support is available to you by using the Childcare Eligibility Checker.
Contact
To discuss further please email:
Wraparound Care for Children with SEND
We understand that finding suitable wraparound care for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) can be challenging. Our aim is to provide inclusive, safe and enriching childcare before and after school
What wraparound care offers
Wraparound care usually operates from 8:00 am until 6:00 pm during term time, either on a school site, at an off-site venue, or through a registered childminder. Hours vary depending on the provider. These services extend the school day and may include breakfast, snacks, or light meals, although this is not a statutory requirement. If food is not provided, parents may be asked to supply snacks or meals, and providers must follow food safety and allergy guidelines. Children with dietary requirements linked to SEND should be offered suitable alternatives.
Staff training and experience
Many wraparound care providers invest in staff training to ensure children with SEND receive the right support. This training often covers autism awareness, behavioural strategies, sensory needs and communication techniques. Some providers employ staff with significant SEND experience, especially where children have education, health and care plans (EHCPs) or complex needs. Staff may also receive training in paediatric first aid, medical care for specific conditions such as type 1 diabetes, and specialist procedures like gastrostomy feeding, provided they have received the relevant competency assessment.
Legal duties and reasonable adjustments
Providers have a legal duty under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments so children with SEND can access their services. Adjustments might include improving physical accessibility, offering communication support, putting in place tailored behavioural strategies, or meeting medical needs. While EHCPs are primarily intended for school hours, wraparound care providers are still expected to support the needs identified in them where possible.
Staffing ratios
The number of staff and children in wraparound settings depends on the age group and provider guidelines. For early years children, the usual ratio is 1:8. For under 8s, it is typically 1:10. Where a qualified teacher is present with children aged 3 and over, the ratio can be 1:13; without one, it returns to 1:8. For children over 8, there is no statutory ratio, but most providers follow best practice and insurance recommendations of 1:10. Children with SEND do not have a fixed statutory ratio, as staffing levels are determined by individual needs and risk assessments.
Financial support
Some children may require one-to-one support depending on their care plan or EHCP, which can involve additional costs. Families may be eligible for up to £4,000 per year in tax-free childcare, or up to 85% of childcare costs under Universal Credit Childcare.
If you are eligible, you will be able to use Tax-Free Childcare or Universal Credit Childcare to help pay for your place.
Check what support is available to you by using the Childcare Eligibility Checker.
Behaviour support
Behavioural needs should be supported through positive strategies, with exclusion from wraparound care used only as a last resort. Providers should have a behaviour management policy and work closely with families to address concerns.
Accessibility
Where a setting is not physically accessible, reasonable adjustments must be made, which may include adapting facilities or finding suitable alternative arrangements.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is a core responsibility for all wraparound care providers. Staff should be trained to recognise and respond to SEND-specific safeguarding issues, such as communication barriers or heightened vulnerability to bullying and neglect.
Emotional and sensory support
For children with sensory sensitivities, providers should be able to offer quiet spaces, sensory tools and flexible routines. For those with emotional regulation difficulties, trained staff can use de-escalation techniques, positive reinforcement and individual care plans to provide effective support.
Contact
For more information or tailored advice about wraparound care for children with SEND, please email: