Out of school services are for school-age children to play and learn and have fun in groups. They are usually based in or near schools and more are being set up to help families where parents work.

Out of school services can be registered with OFSTED provided they are caring for children aged under eight years of age for more than two hours a day and more than 6 days a year. They are run outside school hours by a team of staff, usually called playworkers. Activities should be planned to help children learn, play and relax with their friends. Playworkers will often pick children up from local schools.

There are different types of out of school services, so look around to find one that suits you and your child. Look for places where children can learn, relax after school and have fun with their friends and that are geared to the needs of children with working parents. A list of the different types of out of school service is below:

Breakfast clubs
All our breakfast clubs are open in the mornings before school so children can enjoy breakfast there.

After School Clubs
Our After School Clubs open in the afternoons between about 3.30pm and 6pm and our Before and After Clubs open in the mornings and afternoons. Holiday playschemes are open during school holidays between about 8..30am and 6pm

• Toy Libraries and Play Sessions
  Toy Libraries lend good quality, carefully chosen toys to all families with young children.
• Under 5's project
  The Under 5's project supports parents/cares to develop the play, learning and language development of their children in a safe, fun and structured environment.
• Accident Prevention Scheme
  The scheme aims to reduce accidents that occur in the homes of Hackney residents by lending safety equipment free of charge.
• FAQ
  Find out more about the range of out of school care, times the services are open and how much things cost

In England, out of school services are also sometimes called kids' clubs.

How to find an Out of School Service
Hackney Children?s Information Service holds lists of all Out of School Services. Please click here or contact us by email: cis@learningtrust.co.uk or phone: 020 8820 7590 or 020 8820 7583.