Supporting Working Families in Stoke-on-Trent
Wraparound childcare is helping families across the city balance work and family life. By offering supervised time before and after the school day, children can enjoy a safe, welcoming space while parents have the flexibility they need for work.
From early-morning drop-offs with breakfast to after‑school sessions filled with games and activities, wraparound childcare is giving children more opportunities to learn, play and build confidence — all while giving parents dependable support.
What’s happening in Stoke-on-Trent?
Stoke-on-Trent City Council is working closely with primary schools, childcare providers and childminders to increase the number of wraparound childcare places available across the city.
Funding from the Department for Education is helping settings to:
- Start new before‑ and after‑school childcare services
- Extend their opening hours
- Increase the number of places available for local families
Parents were also invited to share their views during the application process, ensuring the expansion reflects real demand within local communities. The long‑term goal is that, by 2026, all primary‑aged children who need wraparound support can access it close to home.
How wraparound childcare is helping families
Local parents are already seeing the benefits. One Stoke-on-Trent mum described how essential this support has become for her family:
“I’m a supply teacher and a single parent, so wraparound care gives me the flexibility to get to different schools and complete my work knowing my son Alexander is safe. We don’t have family nearby, so this support really matters. It’s helped him grow in confidence too — he loves the cooking, dancing, and art sessions.”
Children aren’t just being cared for — they’re gaining new experiences, developing friendships and building important life skills.
Growing confidence and opportunities
Settings taking part in the expansion programme can also access specialist training to ensure staff are equipped to offer high‑quality, inclusive care that meets the needs of all children.
Carmountside Primary Academy, part of The Societas Trust, is one of the schools taking part. School Business Manager Julie Bourne explains:
“Our provision gives children a positive start and finish to their school day. Working with Tom from VIP Education, pupils enjoy a healthy breakfast followed by activities such as arts, sports, cooking and even archery. These sessions boost confidence, resilience and teamwork, while giving parents reassurance that their children are safe and engaged.”
Why wraparound childcare matters
Wraparound childcare does more than fill the hours around the school day. It supports families in a number of important ways:
- Helps parents start work, stay in work or increase their hours
- Gives children a safe and friendly place to learn, play and relax
- Builds social skills, independence and confidence
- Offers reliable, flexible support during busy family routines
Many working parents can also get financial help with childcare costs. Those eligible for Tax-Free Childcare can receive a government top-up, and families on Universal Credit may be able to claim back a significant portion of approved childcare fees. Parents moving into work may also be able to access support with upfront childcare costs.
To find out what you’re entitled to, visit: https://www.beststartinlife.gov.uk/childcare-early-years-education