Buddies

Introduction 

Our Buddies Before and After School Club provides a safe, stimulating, and enjoyable environment for children outside normal school hours. This policy outlines the procedures and expectations to ensure smooth operation and the well-being of all attendees.

Aims and Objectives

  • To provide a safe and secure environment for children before and after school hours.
  • To offer a range of engaging activities that support social, emotional, and physical development.
  • To support working parents by offering reliable childcare options.

Registration and Booking

  • All children must be registered before attending the Club, so we have contact details, medical and dietary information about your child.
  • Booking is required in advance using MyChildAtSchool and spaces will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Emergency drop-in sessions may be available, subject to space.
  • Parents/guardians must update contact details and emergency information as needed.

Attendance and Collection

  • Parents/guardians must inform the club 48 hours in advance if their child will not be attending a booked session.
  • Children must be signed in and out by a designated adult.
  • Only authorised individuals listed on the registration form may collect a child. Any changes must be communicated in writing.
  • Late collection fees may apply if a child is picked up after the scheduled closing time.

Prices and Session Times

Buddies pricing is set so that costs to run the provision are covered: staffing, training, premises, administration, resources and refreshments.

Breakfast 7.30am   to 8.55am £6.50 (includes breakfast)

Morning  from 8.15am  to 8.55am £3.50

Afternoon is until 4.30pm £5.50 (including tea)

After School is until 5.30pm £8.50 (including tea)

 

Fees and Payment

  • Fees must be paid in advance according to the club’s payment schedule using MyChildAtSchool.
  • Late payments may result in the suspension of a child’s place until outstanding fees are settled.
  • Refunds will only be issued under exceptional circumstances at the discretion of the club management.

Cancellation Policy

  • Parents/guardians must provide at least 48 hours' notice for cancellations to receive a full refund.
  • Cancellations made with less than 48 hours' notice may not be eligible for a refund unless due to exceptional circumstances.
  • The club reserves the right to cancel sessions due to unforeseen circumstances, in which case parents will be notified as soon as possible and offered a refund or rescheduled session.
  • If a child is unable to attend due to illness, parents/guardians should notify the club as soon as possible. Refunds for sickness-related cancellations will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 
  • Should a child have an illness that spans more than one day, then the parent is responsible for cancelling the bookings for subsequent days until the child is well enough to attend.  Otherwise, the parent will be charged for day two onwards.

Activities and Supervision

  • A variety of activities will be provided, including arts and crafts, outdoor play, and quiet time for reading or homework.
  • Children will be supervised at all times by school staff.
  • The club promotes positive behaviour, and inappropriate conduct will be addressed in line with the school's behaviour policy.

Food and Drink

  • A healthy snack will be provided during sessions.
  • Parents/guardians must inform staff of any dietary requirements or allergies.
  • Children are encouraged to bring a water bottle.

Health and Safety

  • The club follows school policies on safeguarding, first aid, and emergency procedures.
  • Any accidents or incidents will be recorded, and parents/guardians will be informed as necessary.
  • Children with medical conditions must have appropriate care plans in place, and any medication must be provided with written consent.

Behaviour Expectations

  • All children are expected to follow the club’s rules and show respect to staff and peers.
  • Repeated inappropriate behaviour may result in temporary or permanent exclusion from the club.
  • Parents/guardians will be notified of any behavioural concerns.

Communication and Complaints

  • The club welcomes open communication with parents/guardians.
  • Any concerns or complaints should be raised with the club coordinator in the first instance.
  • Unresolved issues may be escalated to school leadership in accordance with the complaints policy.

Review and Amendments

  • This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect best practices and operational changes.

 

By enrolling in the Before and After School Club, parents/guardians agree to abide by this policy to ensure a positive and safe experience for all children.