Club operators typically run breakfast clubs between 8am and 9am before schools open, and after-school clubs from around 3pm until 5pm or 6pm. Holiday clubs are run during half-term holidays and the main school holidays (at Christmas, Easter and summer).

Clubs are usually based on premises that are owned or rented by the operator and located within a few minutes’ walking distance of local schools, or sometimes on the school premises themselves.

While out-of-school clubs provide care for children on a short-term basis, they still need to demonstrate appropriate food safety and hygiene knowledge, if they prepare snacks and drinks for the children in their care.

This profile provides information about starting up and running an out-of-school club in Wales. It describes the skills required, the training available, the current market trends and the key trading issues. It also explains the legislation that must be complied with and provides sources of further information and support. Separate factsheets are available on starting up and running out-of-school clubs in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.