FAQ about before,after and school holiday child care in Gateshead Newcastle

Frequently asked questions

We have included the answers to some questions that we are often asked to ensure that you have all the information you need. If however, you would like to discuss any aspect of the services offered by Lamesley Childcare please contact us on 0191 4106526.

Who can attend the holiday club?

Any child or young person between reception age to 14 years is able to attend the holiday club, however we can take young people up to age 14 years (wherever they live) if their parents or carers are able to transport them to and from the club. You do not need to be using our breakfast and/or after school provision to be able to access the holiday club.

Is lunch provided at the holiday club?

The fee for the holiday club does not include lunch although healthy snacks (fresh fruit and drinks) are included throughout the day. Children and young people attending will need to bring a packed lunch. We can also offer breakfast at an additional cost of 50p per child.

Are outings organised weekly at the holiday club?

Organising outings and visits is an important part of the programme of activities that we offer and are a regular feature. However, generally we do not organise outings on weeks that have a bank holiday or if we have a special event at the club such as a visit from the magician or Zoolab. To find out what is planned for the next holiday club, visit the holiday section on the website.

Does my child have to attend the outing or can they stay in the childcare setting?

Regulations on minimum staffing levels (1:8 for children under eight years and 1: 10 for children over eight, with a minimum of two staff at any time) mean that we are unable to offer a service for children to stay in the childcare setting on trip days. We are happy to review this policy if there is demand from enough parents who would like this service.

Can my child bring their own toys to the club?

We have a good selection of toys and activities at all of our clubs. However, if children would like to bring their own toys to the club you should speak to a member of staff and ensure that the toy is clearly labelled with the child’s name. We are unable to be held responsible for any breakages or losses.

For all enquiries please contact Lamesly Childcare via our contact page here >>

"Staff provide children with a rich, varied and imaginative range of exciting and challenging activities, based on children's interests. These activities successfully complement children's learning in school and enable them to make rapid progress."

"Children's self-esteem, sense of belonging and feelings of emotional security are effectively promoted to the highest level."

"Key persons are exceptionally skilled and sensitive. They help children to form extremely strong emotional attachments and feel very safe within the club."

"Self-evaluation arrangements are sharply focused and take account of the views of staff, parents and children. This has a significantly positive impact on staff's ability to continue to improve the provision and sustain high-quality practice."

"Staff are enthusiastic and full of fun and this is imitated by the children as they play, laugh and learn together."

"Staff are well qualified and passionate about their role."

"Staff place high priority on promoting children's physical and emotional well-being."

"Children have wonderful opportunities to learn about safety and to recognise risks."

"All staff are extremely well qualified and use their skills well, overall, to provide excellent support for children's play and learning."

"Staff provide children with a varied and stimulating environment which is extremely well resourced and presented to capture their interests."

"Children are confident and show they feel safe and secure."

"High quality care is provided and children's safety is given top priority"

"High-quality information is gathered to provide a consistent approach to children's development"

"Staff set up planned activities that motivate and promote children's curiosity"

"Behaviour is very good and children are developing life-long friendships"

"Children with special educational needs/and or disabilities are supported well"

"Staff engage with children enthusiastically, listening to children's views and opinions"