Choosing the perfect school holiday childcare for your child can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing work and family life. With over a decade of experience running Holiday Camps, we’ve put together five essential tips to help you make the right choice. We hope it helps!

1. Prioritise Safety and Security
Your child’s safety is the top priority. Look for camps that are Ofsted-registered and follow strict safety measures, such as secure entrances, childproofed areas, and well-trained staff. Not all childcare providers are Ofsted-registered, so always check on their website to confirm. Or click here on the Ofsted website and search.

2. Qualified and Engaging Staff
The quality of care your child receives depends largely on the staff. Regulations allow for a ratio of 1 trained adult to 30 children in some settings, but we believe in smaller groups for better supervision. At our Holiday Camps, we maintain a 1:8 ratio for all children, ensuring every child feels supported and nurtured. Look for camps with paediatric-trained staff and passionate, experienced caregivers.

3. Age-Appropriate Activities
A well-rounded camp should offer activities that engage your child’s creativity, physical development, and social skills. Ask about the camp’s daily schedule and ensure there’s a mix of adult-led and child-initiated activities. At The Strings Club, you can also download a full timetable one month before.

4. Read Reviews and Get Recommendations
A quick online search can reveal valuable insights from other parents. Check platforms like Trustpilot or Feefo and ask fellow parents for recommendations. Reviews can provide real feedback on the camp’s environment, staff, and activities.

5. Open Communication and Parent Involvement
Choose a camp that values parent communication. At The Strings Club, we provide:

• Pre-camp “Essential Info” emails
• Daily newsletters with links to an online gallery
• Personalised Daily Diaries from key persons
• A direct contact number for every camp

We understand that selecting a holiday camp is a big decision. We hope these tips help make the process easier. If you have any questions, we’re always happy to assist! Simply give us a call on 0121 296 9204.

‍