After School Clubs

Our approach to child care also informs our After School Clubs, where the focus is not just on occupying children safely and productively after school, but on creating a culture of fun that makes the after-school hours their favourite time of day.

Thornwood

Our After School Club in Thornwood is the first purpose-built after school programme in Ireland. We designed it with the same care and child-centred attention as we put into all our crèches, creating a bright, friendly, safe and nurturing environment.

We welcome children from 12 different schools in the Booterstown area. Children arrive at Thornwood at various times (depending on school schedules) and quickly fit into the relaxed daily routine. Meal times and an hour (maximum) of homework time are firmly scheduled, but there is lots of time for free play and socialisation.

Choice is a vital aspect of the Park Academy approach – modelled in part on High/Scope. We offer optional group activities – music, dancing, arts & crafts, etc. Although most children choose to participate, they always have the choice to do something else.

We strive to build each child’s sense of independence and responsibility, so everyone participates in planning activities, in setting the table for meals, and in cleaning up afterward.

Our Ideas Board – displaying each child’s ideas for games and activities to be implemented during the week - is a prominent symbol of our belief that children thrive on being taken seriously, and on being given both responsibilities and respect.

The After School Club is a year-round programme, offering day-long programmes during school breaks and throughout the summer.

Other Centres

Our crèches in Beacon Court, Cabinteely, Bray and Eden Gate also offer After School Clubs, all modelled on the enormously successful Thornwood programme.

Call us today to visit Thornwood, or an After School Club in a Park Academy Centre near you.