Out of school clubs are for school age children to play, learn and have fun in groups. They are usually based in, or near, schools and more are being set up to help families whose parents work. Out of school clubs must be registered with the Scottish Commission for the Regulation of Care (also known as the Care Commission) if they are caring for children for more than two hours per day and more than six days per year. Registered clubs, which are run by a team of staff, are inspected every year. Activities should be planned to help children learn, play and relate with their friends. Playworkers often pick children up from local schools where the club is separate from the school.

There are different types of out of school clubs, including:

• Breakfast clubs - open in the mornings before school so children can enjoy breakfast there

• After school clubs - open in the afternoons between 3.30 and 6.00pm

• Holiday playschemes - open during school holidays between 8.30am and 6.00pm approximately

More detailed information on West Lothian out of school care can be found via the Scottish Childcare website (see link above).