Planning for the Future

Free Information Sessions for SAC Practitioners

PlayBoard’s Bright Start Team will be delivering four free information sessions throughout September designed to support School Age Childcare (SAC) practitioners in navigating financial challenges and planning for future changes.

These interactive sessions will give practitioners the opportunity to explore potential scenarios and identify practical approaches to help safeguard and strengthen the future of their childcare business.

Planning for the Future: Things to Consider with the Introduction of NICSS

The recent extension of the NI Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) to families requiring SAC is a welcome development. Importantly, this additional support is available not only for parents using HSCT-registered out-of-school care but also to all primary schools registered for Tax-Free Childcare with HMRC.

As a result, parents can now access the scheme to help pay for before- or after-school activities run by schools. While this extension increases parental choice, some families may choose to move towards school-based activities, which are often lower in cost, potentially impacting the sustainability of existing SAC providers.

If you think your setting might be affected, these free workshops are for you. Together, we will explore the challenges, opportunities, and practical steps you can take to plan effectively for the future of your SAC business.

Dates & Locations

Magherafelt Women’s Group, 27-29 Moneymore Road, Magherafelt, Co Derry, BT45 6AG

Drumellan Children & Young People’s Centre, 11-12 Drumellan Court, Brownlow, Craigavon, Co Armagh, BT65 5HT

PlayBoard NI, Belfast 7 Crescent Gardens, Belfast, BT7 1NS