Hundreds of families across North Yorkshire are now receiving additional support after the council increased childcare provision in the county’s schools.
The expanded wraparound childcare services, provided through the Government’s childcare expansion programme, offer supervised care before and after the school day, giving working parents more options.
More than 2,000 new childcare places have been created since April 2024 to support parents and carers across the region.
Councillor Annabel Wilkinson, executive member for education, learning and skills at North Yorkshire Council, said: "Whether it’s a quiet space for reading and games, outdoor play or creative activities, this childcare offers children safe, inclusive and supportive surroundings while giving parents the peace of mind and greater flexibility in their working day.
"Our schools are doing an exceptional job and it’s wonderful to see so many families benefitting from the support available."
Wraparound childcare typically operates from 8am until the start of the school day and from the end of the school day until 6pm during term time.
The council has supported schools and childcare providers to expand breakfast and after-school club capacity, making care more accessible and reliable for children and parents.
Sarah Rogers, a parent whose children attend the breakfast and after-school clubs at Boroughbridge Primary School, said: "The breakfast club and after-school club is a fantastic facility and my children always come home happy and full of stories of the fun they have had with their friends.
"I regularly get craft projects and artwork sent home.
"The clubs provide food for the children and give me the reassurance that my children have been well looked after and fed.
"This takes the pressure off my husband and myself after a long day at work and makes the morning rush that little bit easier as we know they can have breakfast at school if we don't have time at home."
Emma Ryan, headteacher of Boroughbridge Primary School, said the clubs have grown alongside the school’s rising pupil numbers.
She said: "The clubs have been a fantastic support for both our children and families, providing a safe and welcoming environment where children can relax, socialise and enjoy a range of organised activities that help build confidence, teamwork and creativity all whilst having fun with their friends.
"The school has welcomed the support of a grant from North Yorkshire Council which has allowed us to create a new kitchenette and a fully refurbished area accommodating the children who attend."
The wraparound childcare is a paid-for service, but many families may qualify for financial support through Tax Free Childcare.
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Government funding has been allocated to local authorities to support schools and providers in England over two academic years to create or expand childcare provision on either side of the school day, which parents of primary school-aged children are able to pay to access.
The Government’s ambition is that where possible parents and carers of primary school-aged children would be able to access term-time support in their local area usually between 8am and 6pm.
Further information on eligibility and financial support is available at Best Start in Life.
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