The Wraparound Project
What is the Wraparound Project?
The Wraparound Project is a government initiative to support parents getting back into employment or education as it is designed to give parents access to work/study more hours. The project aims to provide before and after-school care for all primary schools (including children with SEN needs) in England during term time, between 8 am and 6pm (subject to change) which can include breakfast clubs, after-school clubs which are usually onsite, or a local nearby provision.
The project’s approach is slightly different from afterschool activity clubs, which are usually one-off or ad hoc as this project is every day throughout term time. The principal aim of the program is to ensure childcare provision is regular, has longer hours, and is more dependable for working parents.
Private, voluntary, and independent providers including childminders, and early-year provisions can deliver the wraparound childcare offered within the community. Parents are encouraged to seek support from their local schools or the Family Information Service in the local authority. Providers are expected to set their fees for wraparound places therefore prices may differ.
What is the Wraparound programme and Capital funding?
In Spring 2023 the government announced a national wraparound programme. The aim is to support all working families that can access wraparound childcare from 8am to 6pm, in their local area.
The Wraparound Programme funding is available to support local authorities in England to help make sure there are adequate wraparound provisions such as breakfast and after-school clubs within the community. The funding is also accessible to tackle any gaps and introduce new wraparound provisions.
Programme funding can be used to cover costs including training for staff, and resources, for indoor and outdoor facilities. Schools and providers awarded will be expected to financially sustain this by the end of the programme in September 2026.
Capital funding can be used for building modifications, to create new wraparound spaces and to improve accessibility to make wraparound provisions inclusive for children with additional needs.
Applications for Programme funding will be subject to the completion of:
- A detailed business plan
- A Programme funding application form
- Financial forecast document
If you are interested in applying for Wraparound Programme or capital funding or would like to discuss this further contact: peace.omorogbe@lewisham.gov.uk