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Protocols for schools allowing third parties, including childcare providers, on school premises

All schools should be aware that there are set protoPhoto of children in a circlecols to follow before allowing third parties, including childcare providers, to use schools sites or premises.

It is very easy to inadvertently allow third parties who occupy council land or property to obtain security of tenure, which can result in the council and schools:

  • being unable to regain use of that land or property;
  • having to pay compensation before they can regain use of the land or property; and
  • not providing for insurance risks and liabilities properly.

The land at foundation schools and the built areas at voluntary aided schools are not owned by the council (the land at foundation schools is usually owned by the school’s governing body and the built areas at voluntary aided schools are usually owned by the diocese). However, even though the council will not be directly involved in granting new leases on these areas, it would be helpful if the council is still consulted, so that overall provision can be monitored.

Additionally, any lettings should be properly documented to protect the school’s position.

It is very important that proper procedures are followed before any childcare providers are allowed to occupy council land or property.

The protocols are:

  • Contact the Early Years and Childcare Service if you are considering setting up any form of childcare on a school site.
  • The Early Years and Childcare Service will check the school premises for suitability and security.
  • The Early Years and Childcare Service will contact the Place Planning and Review Team to check whether the proposal fits with the council’s long-term strategic plan.
  • The opportunity to provide childcare will then go to tender, inviting all childcare providers to submit business plans.
  • An interview process will take place with interested childcare providers.
  • A childcare provider will be selected.
  • Medway Council’s Asset Management Team will draw up a lease or tenancy agreement between the childcare provider and the school.
  • Schools will also need to contact Medway Council’s Place Planning and Review Team if any other third parties are interested in delivering services from school land or property.
  • If schools have any queries, they should contact the Asset Management Team.

 

For more information contact Family Information Service by telephone: 01634 335566 or by email: familyinfo@medway.gov.uk

Write to: Family Information Service, Medway Council, Gun Wharf, Dock Road, Chatham, Kent ME4 4TR

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