Support for quality delivery of outside school hours care: A case study

Abstract

There has been little research investigating Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) despite the growing demand for it in Australia. OSHC services can be managed by schools, Parents and Citizens' Associations, local councils, non-profit organisations or for-profit companies, and have varying levels of support available to them. This study investigates the different models of OSHC adopted by seven schools in a regional city in Queensland, with the aim of identifying elements that enhance quality of care. The schools-including two state, three Catholic and two independent-were all located in middle-to-high socioeconomic status (SES) suburbs in a small geographical area. In all seven, the OSHC services were on school premises. Data collection methods included interviews with principals, OSHC coordinators and area coordinators, as well as researcher observations. Quality Profiles awarded by the National Childcare Accreditation Council (NCAC) and themes emerging from an interview with the director of the Queensland Network of Children's Activities (QCAN) were used for triangulation and validation of results. Findings suggest that models of OSHC that provide coordinators with additional levels of support are more likely to deliver quality care to children. While support from the principal is important, that from outside the school in the form of area coordinators is vital in providing assistance with accreditation, professional development and networking. One key recommendation for services managed by Parents and Citizens' Associations is the additional support of an area coordinator.