Little Scholars School of Early Learning provides both vacation care and after school care across its Gold Coast campuses. This guide explains how these programs work, who they are for, and how to find the right fit for your family. We cover the specific services offered, the educational approach, and practical steps for enrolment.

Vacation Care Services

Vacation care is a supervised childcare service designed for school-aged children during school holidays. At Little Scholars, our vacation care programs are run by experienced and qualified educators. The goal is to ensure your child is not just waiting for you, but is thriving in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. These programs provide a structured alternative to unsupervised time, offering a mix of play, learning, and social interaction.

Program Structure and Benefits

Our vacation care is part of our broader Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) offering. It is designed around your family’s day, providing reliable coverage during school breaks. Children engage in a variety of activities that support their development while keeping them entertained. The program is CCS approved, meaning eligible families can receive government subsidies to help cover the cost.

Who Is It For?

Vacation care is ideal for families who need reliable childcare during school holidays. It is suitable for children who have started school and are looking for a fun and safe place to spend their time. The program fosters friendships and provides a consistent routine, which can be comforting for children during breaks from their regular school schedule.

After School Care (OSHC)

After school care, often referred to as OSHC, is a service that provides supervision and activities for children after their regular school day ends. At Little Scholars, our Before & After School Care programs are run by experienced and qualified educators. We ensure your child is happy and cared for in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. The program runs from school pick-up through to late afternoon, with exact hours varying by campus.

What Children Do in After School Care

Children in our after school care are not left to idle away the time. They participate in a range of activities that support their physical, social, and emotional development. These activities are designed to be engaging and fun, ensuring that children are thriving while they wait for their parents. The program is integrated with our broader educational philosophy, ensuring a consistent experience for the child.

Subsidy and Cost

The cost of after school care can be a concern for many families. All our Before & After School Care and Vacation Care programs are CCS approved. This means the government helps cover the cost for eligible families. You can use our quick calculator to see exactly what you would pay based on your individual circumstances. Eligible families can receive up to 90% subsidy, making high-quality care more accessible.

Gold Coast Campus Locations

Little Scholars operates multiple campuses across the Gold Coast, providing convenient access to our vacation care and after school care programs. Our campuses are strategically located to serve families in various suburbs. Below is a table summarizing our Gold Coast locations.

Each campus offers a unique environment with dedicated outdoor spaces and purpose-built learning studios. We encourage families to visit their nearest campus to see the facilities and meet the team. You can book a tour to experience the Little Scholars difference firsthand.

Curriculum and Activities

Our approach to vacation care and after school care is rooted in our play-based curriculum. We believe that children learn best through play, exploration, and interaction. Our programs are designed to be engaging and educational, ensuring that children are developing skills while having fun. We incorporate a variety of activities that cater to different interests and developmental stages.

Play-Based Learning

Play-based learning is a pedagogical approach that uses play as a primary vehicle for learning. At Little Scholars, our educators plan experiences that develop children’s skills in all developmental areas. We display the weekly program in your child’s studio, so you can see what they are learning and doing. This transparency helps parents stay connected to their child’s educational journey.

Extracurricular Enrichment

In addition to core care, we offer a range of extracurricular activities that enrich your child’s day. These include sport, dance, music, STEM, languages, and more. Our expert-led extracurricular activities are woven right through your child’s day, with many included in our fees. This holistic approach ensures that children are exposed to a wide range of experiences that support their overall development.

Key Takeaways

• Little Scholars provides both vacation care and after school care across its Gold Coast campuses.
• Our programs are run by experienced and qualified educators in a safe and nurturing environment.
• All OSHC programs are CCS approved, helping eligible families reduce costs.
• We have 11 campuses across the Gold Coast, offering convenient locations for families.
• Our play-based curriculum ensures children are learning and thriving, not just waiting.
• Extracurricular activities like STEM, dance, and sport are integrated into the daily routine.
• Families can book a tour to see the facilities and meet the team at their nearest campus.
• Use our CCS calculator to estimate your out-of-pocket costs based on your individual circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hours does Before & After School Care run?

Before school care starts from approximately 6:30am through to school drop-off. After school care runs from pick-up through to late afternoon. Exact hours vary by campus, so it is best to contact your local team for specifics.

Is my child eligible for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?

Eligibility for the CCS is assessed by Services Australia based on your individual family circumstances. You can use our quick calculator to see an estimate of what you would pay. All our Before & After School Care and Vacation Care programs are CCS approved.

Are meals included in the care programs?

Yes, our programs include chef-prepared meals and snacks. Our menus are nutritionally balanced and designed to support growing bodies. We also offer take-home meals for families who want to extend the convenience into their evening.

What if my child's school isn't listed?

How do I know my child is safe?

Child safety is our top priority. We have a comprehensive child safeguarding policy in place, including rigorous screening of all staff and a culture of safety. Our educators are trained in child protection and first aid, ensuring a safe environment for all children.

What do children do in After School Care?

Children participate in a variety of activities, including play, homework support, and extracurricular programs. The goal is to keep them engaged and happy while they wait for their parents. Our educators plan activities that are both fun and educational.

Conclusion

Choosing the right childcare provider for your school-aged child is a significant decision. Little Scholars School of Early Learning offers a comprehensive range of vacation care and after school care services across the Gold Coast. Our programs are designed to support your child’s development while providing peace of mind for you. With qualified educators, a play-based curriculum, and convenient locations, we are committed to being an extension of your family. To plan your visit, or book a tour today.