What services does LOOSC provide?

LOOSC offers a Breakfast Club, After School Club, and Holiday Club, operating year-round (except during the Christmas break, approximately December 21 – January 5, and a few bank holidays). Each session includes breakfast or a snack, followed by a focus on play, with plenty of resources for organised, imaginative, and creative activities.

What is the age range of children who attend LOOSC ?

Primary school-aged children who usually range from 4 to 12 years old.

What do the kids actually do?

At LOOSC, play comes first! We’re proudly a child-led environment, meaning children choose how they spend their time — whether that’s joining group games, getting creative with crafts, or simply relaxing with a book. With school already a big part of their day, our focus is on fun, not more work. Our team is here to supervise, support, and get involved, creating a safe, inclusive space where every child can thrive without pressure or judgment.

Who looks after my kids?

LOOSC is proud to have a dedicated, skilled team committed to providing the highest standards of care. Our staff keep up to date with training and qualifications, ranging from trainee practitioners studying towards their awards to an experienced management team. With ages spanning from 17 upwards, we bring a perfect mix of knowledge, life experience, and youthful energy (especially when the “oldies” slow down!). Check out our staff profiles to get to know the team better.

How are the kids dropped off and picked up from the school?

For Breakfast Club, simply ring the bell at drop-off and we’ll take it from there—registering your child and walking them safely to school at 8:45. Children walk in pairs, with younger ones leading the pace, and P1–P3 guided on a rope for safety. Staff wear high-vis jackets and use crossing signs, with groups split into Yellow (younger) and Green (older) on arrival, handing over care at the school gates by 9am. After School Club follows the same procedures in reverse: staff collect children at 15:10, regroup, and escort everyone safely back to LOOSC.

How can my child join ?

To guarantee a place at LOOSC, a contract is required. To inquire, please contact Josh, the manager, at TheLOOSC@hotmail.com—responses are usually quick, and any questions will be answered if not already addressed or covered here. During the enquiry, you’ll be asked about your child’s age, school year, required days, and any additional medical or dietary needs so we can determine if a care plan is needed. Enrolment typically takes place during school holiday periods between terms.

I just need an ad-hoc booking. How can I do this?

We do accept new children without contracts, following the same sign-up process and providing a booking guide. However, spaces cannot be guaranteed this way, so while it may suit some families, it won’t work for everyone. Ad-hoc customers are still subject to the waiting list for contracts, meaning access is only available when spaces allow and does not provide a shortcut to securing a contract.

My child doesn’t attend Laurencekirk Primary; can they still join?

Yes and no! Holiday Club is open to all local schools, and we welcome children from across the area to enjoy a fun-filled break with us. However, during term time, LOOSC is only available to Laurencekirk Primary pupils, as we can’t provide drop-off or collection from other schools. If another school opened within walking distance, we’d review—but for now, term-time services remain focused on Laurencekirk Primary

What availability does LOOSC currently have?

LOOSC usually has some spaces available. Our capacity is 44 children during term time and 24 during holiday sessions. To keep things fair for ad-hoc customers, we only offer contracts for up to 40 children on any given day, leaving a few spots available for those who book quickly.

Can I use child care vouchers?

Yes! We accept childcare vouchers and will continue to do so for as long as they remain in use. We already take a wide range, including Computershare, Pluxee, and EdenRed, and if your employer uses a different provider, we’re happy to discuss adding it to our system

Do you have a flexible cancellation Policy?

Yes, we do accept cancellations. Ad-hoc bookings require 24 hours’ notice, keeping things as flexible as possible. Contracted sessions work on a 4-week notice period, as those places aren’t open to other bookings. We’ll always try to be flexible with shorter notice cancellations, but this is at the manager’s discretion based on circumstances and the club’s needs.

My child has additional needs. Is there a place for them at LOOSC?

We strive to support children of all ages, stages, and abilities, never discriminating or isolating anyone. If your child has additional needs, we’ll work with you to create a child-centred plan tailored to them. While a place cannot always be guaranteed (e.g. due to environmental factors or staffing), we will always discuss options openly and suggest other community supports if needed. LOOSC operates in line with National Care Standards and current legislation, underpinned by the UNCRC, the Equality Act 2010, the Children and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014, the GIRFEC principles, and the SHANARRI wellbeing indicators.

How can I view policies relating to my child’s care?

When you enrol, you’ll receive our Parents’ Handbook, which includes all the key information for you and your child. This is reviewed, updated, and shared with parents every summer.

Is LOOSC part of the school?

Short answer – No. LOOSC is an independent charity, not officially linked with Laurencekirk Primary School or Aberdeenshire Council, though we do work closely with them on important matters.

What do I do if my child requires medication?

LOOSC can store and dispense medication as needed, provided parents supply full medical, dietary, and allergy information at enrolment. Any required medication must be on-site before your child’s first session, with consent forms completed and updated quarterly. For temporary medication (e.g. antibiotics), these can be signed in at drop-off and collected by an adult at pick-up—never sent home in a child’s bag. Please note, we cannot administer the first dose of any medication.