FAQ’s Playscheme
Who runs the holiday Play Schemes?
South Gloucestershire Playscheme (formerly Four Towns Play Association) have been delivering free playscheme’s since 1998 in South Gloucestershire. As of May 2021, we became a registered charity. Prior to this we were a community organisation. We are based in Patchway, South Gloucestershire, but deliver across the area.
How do we ensure our Playscheme is free?
Every year we apply to lots of different funding pots. We feel it’s important to ensure that there is no cost to the families that attend our scheme.
We would like to say a huge thank you to the following funders that have given us funding so far this year:
Bradley Stoke Town Council, Stoke Gifford Parish Council, Patchway Council, Almondsbury Charity, South Gloucestershire Council – HAF Funding Department of Education, Yate Town Council, Local Giving, the High Sheriff, Society of Merchant Venturers, the Toy Trust, the National Lottery Fund and the ASDA Community Foundation.
What age do the children need to be?
EASTER / SUMMER / WINTER PLAYSCHEME: The scheme is insured for children from five years to eleven years of age. Unfortunately, we cannot accept children that are in reception but are not yet five. This is due to funding and insurance. If your child is five during the scheme, they can then join us on or after their 5th birthday. We are also unable to accept children over eleven years of age for the same reasons.
FAMILY ACTIVITY SESSIONS: Any age are welcome to the family activity session. There is no upper or lower age limit. But parental supervision is essential. Staff will be on hand to help where needed but parents need to stay for the play session.
How do I book a place?
EASTER / SUMMER /WINTER PLAYSCHEME: Each session has 40 places available (30 in Kingswood due to venue restrictions) and can be booked at the HAF booking page. Scroll down to the venue that you want your child to attend – and click on either the HAF or FREE link on your chosen date(s). If you’re unable to book online, please contact Barbara Ball on 07510 380596 | email barbara@sgplayscheme.co.uk. Or Ruth Ramsay on 07815 646 806 | email ruth@sgplayscheme.co.uk.
On each form we ask you to sign an agreement that all the information is correct as well as to agree or decline the media/ photography. There are a few questions about ethnicity, disabilities or additional needs. These are asked as they help obtain funding for the scheme.
Staff will use your details to make up a register of attendees which will be used to ensure the safety of you and your child whilst in our care. The booking form also makes for a more smooth and speedy entry and exit for you and your child.
FAMILY ACTIVITY SESSIONS: Booking isn’t necessary for the free family fun sessions. Just turn up between the advertised times and play.
Can my child arrive without me?
EASTER / SUMMER / WINTER PLAYSCHEME: All children must be accompanied by an adult unless you fill out the consent form and declare that you are happy for child to arrive with another person (who must be over 18 years old). Each child must be signed in and out of each session.
FAMILY ACTIVITY SESSIONS: Parents / Carers must attend with the child. Unaccompanied children cannot be left at the activity session day.
Can I leave my child with you during the lunch hour?
EASTER / SUMMER / WINTER PLAYSCHEME: Yes. We will be providing a cold lunch menu. A hot meal will be provided for the Winter Playscheme.
FAMILY ACTIVITY SESSIONS: Not applicable.
What happens if my child can’t make the session?
Please email bookings@sgplayscheme.co.uk to cancel a booking. If you do not cancel and do not attend, we reserve the right to cancel your future bookings with us.
I couldn’t book into one of the locations, what do I do?
The scheme is free and operates on a first-booked-basis. However, we recommend that you join the online wait list for cancellations. Or try other venues which are less busy.
I have a query about the session my child attends. Who do I talk to?
At each locality, there will be team leader. Sometimes speaking to them can help, but if your query is more detailed, please use the number listed to contact the coordinator of the project, who will be happy to help. A variety of contact methods are on our Contact Us page.
What should my child wear?
Playscheme is a messy place. Children like to play with paint and other messy stuff. It is best for your child to wear clothes that they and you don’t mind getting messy. Also, if you think that your child might play some of the games like rounders or running, trainers are best.