With the growing need to support working families, wraparound care facilities have become an essential service in primary schools across England.

 

These facilities offer before- and after-school care, creating a safe, structured environment for children outside of regular school hours. By 2026, all primary schools will need to ensure that wraparound care is accessible, either through school-provided services or local partnerships.

This guide provides key stakeholders with ten essential considerations when procuring wraparound care facilities, ensuring they are functional, compliant, and tailored to meet the evolving needs of both students and families.

  1. 1. Understand your specific needs

    Before starting the procurement process, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your school’s unique needs for wraparound care. Consider the number of pupils expected to use the facility, their age range, and the variety of activities they will participate in. Different age groups require different spaces to suit their developmental needs: while younger children may benefit from a dedicated play area with toys and interactive materials, older students often need a quiet zone to focus on homework or reading.

    Example: A school with both younger and older students would benefit from wraparound care facilities with a central area for mixed activities, alongside a quiet homework area for older pupils. This setup prevents overcrowding and provides students with spaces that cater to their specific needs, keeping the environment calm, safe, and engaging for all ages.

  2. 2. Prioritise flexibility in design 

    Flexibility is key when designing a space that supports a variety of activities throughout the day. Multi-functional spaces allow a facility to adapt to different needs—from group activities and quiet study to arts and crafts or relaxation zones. Movable partitions, for instance, can turn a larger space into smaller sections for different uses, providing both structure and adaptability.

    Example: Installing movable partitions that can divide the space into separate zones for reading, homework, and play during morning and afternoon sessions. In the evening, the partitions can be opened up to create a large hall for school or community events, maximising the facility’s usability and value.

  3. 3. Compliance and safety standards 

    Schools must ensure that any new facility meets local safety, health, and accessibility regulations. Key safety considerations include fire exits, secure entry points, and child-friendly materials that minimise hazards. Working with a supplier familiar with these regulations is invaluable, as non-compliance can lead to costly revisions, delays, or, in worst-case scenarios, safety incidents.

     

    Example: Consulting with local regulators to ensure the facility’s design meets fire regulations and includes accessible exits, secure entrances, and child-safe finishes. By adhering to these standards from the outset, the school creates a safe, compliant environment that provides peace of mind for parents and protects the school from future compliance issues.

  4. 4. Focus on comfort and well-being 

    Comfort and well-being are essential for a successful learning environment. Key elements include natural lighting, adequate ventilation, comfortable furniture, and even the colours and materials used in the space. Research has shown that well-lit, well-ventilated spaces with comfortable seating help children feel calm, reducing stress and encouraging positive behaviour.

    Example: To create a welcoming environment, install large windows to maximise natural light and introduce fresh air. A reading corner with soft seating and a separate, quiet area for relaxation or sensory breaks supports SEND students and creates a home-like atmosphere, helping children feel comfortable and settled in the space.

  5. 5. Energy efficiency and sustainability 

    Sustainable design and energy-efficient features offer long-term benefits by reducing environmental impact and lowering operational costs. Solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and insulation not only make the facility more eco-friendly, but also help schools save on utility costs, freeing up funds for other initiatives.

    Example: By incorporating LED lights, double-glazed windows, and solar panels, you can cut down on energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint. Eco-friendly features can align with  broader sustainability goals, offering students and parents an example of responsible environmental practices in action.

  6. 6. Minimising disruption 

    Construction projects can be disruptive to school life, interfering with daily activities, student learning, and general safety. By carefully planning the timing and layout of construction, schools can minimise disruptions, maintain a stable environment, and ensure that students and staff are safe throughout the installation process.

    Example: Coordinating the installation of a new wraparound care facility to take place over the summer holidays. This avoids interference with daily activities, reduces noise and safety risks, and ensures the facility is ready for use at the start of the term, creating a seamless transition for students and staff.

  7. 7. Technology integration 

    Technology is becoming an integral part of education, making it essential for wraparound care facilities to support basic digital infrastructure. Access to Wi-Fi, interactive screens, and charging stations can enrich the experience by allowing students to work on homework, engage in interactive learning activities, or collaborate on group projects.

    Example: Installing Wi-Fi, interactive screens, and charging stations can allow students to access digital resources, complete homework, or explore educational apps. Interactive whiteboards serve as dynamic tools for collaborative activities, enhancing learning and making after-school time both fun and educational.

  8. 8. Future expansion possibilities 

    To accommodate future growth, it’s wise to consider a modular or scalable facility design. This approach allows schools to easily add extra modules if demand for wraparound care increases, reducing the need for costly expansions or relocations. A modular design supports long-term adaptability, making it easier for schools to adjust to changing enrolment numbers.

    Example: Initially installing a modular wraparound care building with space for 30 children. As enrolment grows, you can add additional modules to the facility, expanding capacity without the need for a new building or complex renovations. This cost-effective, adaptable approach keeps the school flexible to community needs.

  9. 9. Identify a reputable supplier 

    Choosing a supplier with expertise in educational facilities is essential for a successful project. A reputable supplier will understand the specific needs of wraparound care environments and will deliver on time, helping schools avoid delays, cost overruns, and design issues that may arise from inexperience.

    Example: Partnering with a supplier experienced in building educational spaces tailored for after-school activities, including breakfast clubs, quiet study areas, and multi-functional activity rooms. The supplier’s expertise ensures the project is delivered on time, meeting the school’s requirements, and allowing the new facility to serve students without delay.

  10. 10. Cost considerations and funding opportunities 

    When planning for a new facility, schools must budget not only for construction, but also for ongoing operational and maintenance costs. Exploring grants, government funding, or community partnerships can make it easier to secure the necessary funds and reduce the financial burden on the school.

    Example: Reviewing funding options and securing a local council grant to cover a portion of the project’s costs. This financial support enables investment in quality materials and energy-efficient technology, ensuring the facility is a worthwhile, sustainable addition to the school’s infrastructure.

Procuring a wraparound care facility is an investment in a school’s future, providing crucial support for students, families, and staff. By carefully considering each of these ten points, decision-makers can create a space that is adaptable, compliant, and welcoming - benefiting the entire school community.

A well-planned facility not only enriches the student experience but also strengthens the school’s role as a community hub, fostering educational and social development for years to come.

If you're ready to explore how modular building solutions can transform your school’s wraparound care facilities, get in touch with our team today. We’ll work with you to design a space that meets the needs of your students, staff, and community.

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