Empower & Grow Outside School Hours Care Family Handbook We believe in the creation of a safe and nurturing environment, where children are ...
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Empower & Grow Outside School Hours Care Family Handbook We believe in the creation of a safe and nurturing environment, where children are provided with opportunities to learn through play.
FEES
Welcome - 3
About KCS - 3
Payment of Fees - 19
Philosophy - 4
Overdue Fees - 19
SERVICE INFORMATION Methods of Payment - 19
Child Care Subsidy - 20
Service Information - 5
Financial Assistance - 20
Locations - 5
Allowable Absences - 20
Who Can Access - 6
ENROLMENTS AND BOOKINGS
Enrolment - 7
Annual Re-enrolment - 7
Booking Information - 7
Before and After School Care - 7
Vacation Care - 7
Cancellation of Bookings -7
Inclusion of Children with Additional Needs - 7
STAFF
Organisational Chart - 8
Nominated Supervisor - 8
Staff Ratios - 8
PROGRAM & PRACTICE
National Quality Framework (NQF) - 9
OSHC Service Routines - 10, 11, 12
Orientation - 13
Educational Program and Activities - 13
Food - 14
What to Bring to VAC - 15
Toys and Personal Items - 15
Parent Contribution & Communication - 15
POLICY & PROCEDURE
Policies and Procedures - 16
Digital Sign In/Out at OSHC - 16
Delivery and Collection of Children - 16
Authorisation to collect your child - 17
Late Collection of Children - 17
Absent Children - 17
Child Behaviour Expectations - 18
Child Protection - 18
Complaints Compliments Suggestions - 18
-2-
Welcome
Kogarah Community Services (KCS) would like to
welcome you and your family to our Outside School
Hours Care (OSHC) program.
We deliver Before and After School Care at
Blakehurst Public School, Kyeemagh Public and
Carlton South Public School during the NSW Public
School terms and during school holidays we deliver
a Vacation Care program at Carlton South Public
School.
Our OSHC program encourages children to have
fun, express themselves and learn through play. We
focus on providing a range of recreational activities
in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere that support
our values of play-based learning. Activities range
from sports, arts and crafts, music and creative play,
group games and quiet relaxation activities.
We provide children with the opportunity to
participate in both structured and spontaneous
activities, offering a variety of experiences and
resources for children to explore, understand and
develop their relationships, interests and potential
in a safe and nurturing environment. This handbook
provides families with the essential information
required to enable a smooth transition of their
children into our Service.
About KCS
KCS is a local not for profit community organisation, In addition to providing OSHC services, KCS also
originally established by a group of passionate delivers a range of other services within the local
volunteers in 1975 to provide support and community:
information to local residents. Since then we have
grown to become an organisation employing over • Our Aged Care program offers in-home services,
60 staff with a reputation for delivering quality Home Care Packages, lifestyle activities and
childcare and aged care services as well as a range higher level care to enable our seniors to remain
of community engagement programs. living independently at home for as long as
they choose. For further information on these
The role of a community organisation like KCS is services please contact: agedcare@kcs.org.au
wide and varied,but our focus is always on our
local community and how as an organisation we • Our Community Engagement program delivers
can provide inspiration, connection and a sense of an extensive range of practical short courses,
purpose to the people who live and work in our local seminars and events designed to inspire
area. personal growth, empower and upskill, enhance
wellbeing and promote positive mental health.
In all that we do, we strive to empower those we
work with throughpassion, commitment to justice and • Our Neighbourhood Centre on Railway Parade,
our desire to create an inclusive society for all. Kogarah is a central point for our community
to connect with local services and information.
Our Community Hub on English Street offers a
Community Garden, a Street Library and hosts a
large range of our community activities benefiting
community members of different ages. For
further information on these services please
contact: info@kcs.org.au
OSHC FAMILY HANDBOOK -3-
Philosophy
We believe in the creation of a
safe and nurturing environment,
where children are provided with
opportunities to learn through
play. These beliefs are inherent
in our program of activities and
reflect the children’s interests,
current knowledge and cultural
backgrounds.
Children will be supported and
encouraged to participate in the
program and planning with the
freedom to choose from a variety We create positive partnerships with
of activities and experiences. our families and school community,
We recognise the importance of to support open communication
childhood and a child’s need to and enable seamless transitions for
explore and develop their social, children throughout their day.
physical, intellectual, creative and Our passionate team of Educators
emotional skills and characteristics. collaborate to create a culture of
respect, empathy and trust. Their
balance of qualifications and
experience combined with initiative
and innovation supports the delivery
of a quality program.
Most importantly, children’s
wellbeing, self-worth and self-
esteem are fundamental to our daily
practices.
-4-
Service Information
SERVICE INFORMATION
Provider Approval # PR-00007893
For all administrative enquiries including enrolment, payment or bookings please contact our
Administrative Office:
49 English Street, Kogarah NSW 2217
9553 6506 (9:00 am – 2.30 pm)
childcare@kcs.org.au
Locations
Carlton South Public School (CSPS)
Service Approval # SE-00013628
MacKenzie Hall
Ecole Street
Carlton NSW 2218
Access to MacKenzie Hall is via the side gate on Ecole Street. Street parking is available to parents on Ecole Street, but
please be aware of bus zones and ‘no stopping’ time limits.
To speak with the Nominated Supervisor / Responsible Person in charge at the Service please contact:
0419 019 032
This mobile phone is only accessible from:
• 7 - 9 am & 2:30 - 6pm Term Time
• 7 am - 6 pm Vacation Care
Blakehurst Public School (BPS)
Service Approval # SE-40016850
Dewrang Street
Carss Park NSW 2221
Street parking is available to parents on Currawang Street and Dewrang Street , but please be aware of bus zones and ‘no
stopping’ time limits.
To speak with the Nominated Supervisor / Responsible Person in charge at the Service please contact:
0414 246 789
This mobile phone is only accessible from:
• 7 - 9:25 am & 2:45 - 6pm Term Time
Kyeemagh Public School (KPS)
Service Approval # SE-40010431
Crn Jacobson Avenue & Beehag Street
Kyeemagh NSW 2216
Street parking is available to parents on Jacobson Avenue and Beehag Street, but please be aware of bus zones and ‘no
stopping’ time limits.
To speak with the Nominated Supervisor/Responsible Person in charge at the Service please contact:
0416 301 781
This mobile phone is only accessible from:
• 7 - 9:10 am & 2:45 - 6pm Term Time
OSHC FAMILY HANDBOOK -5-SERVICE INFORMATION
Who Can Access
Our Service provides care for families of children who are of primary school age. Children who are outside of
this age category will be considered based on service availability and their individual families circumstances.
Schools we currently provide OSHC to include:
Before and After School Care
CSPS OSHC Blakehurst OSHC Kyeemagh OSHC
Carlton South Public School * Blakehurst Public School * Kyeemagh Public School
Kogarah Public School Bald Face Public School
Vacation Care - Located Carlton South Public School
Children can enrol in our Vacation Care program regardless of the school they attend. Children who are not
yet 5 years of age but enrolled to start school can attend Vacation Care in the January school holidays prior to
commencing school.
Priority of Access
In the enrolment of students for OSHC, priority will be given to:
1. Children attending the school where the OSHC is operating (*);
2. Siblings of children attending the school where the OSHC is operating.
Service Closures
Our Services are closed for all NSW and nationally recognised public holidays. There will also be additional
closures during the Christmas and New Year period of which families will be notified in advance. Families are
not charged for public holidays or service closures.
-6-Enrolment
ENROLMENTS AND BOOKINGS
KCS uses an online enrolment system to register our families for OSHC – My Family Lounge (MFL) Portal
of Qikkids.
To enrol please go to the KCS website – www. kogarahcommunity.org.au and follow the prompts.
Parents must keep all enrolment details up to date via the MFL Portal including, but not limited to:
• Contact details
• Family custody arrangements
• Emergency contacts & authorisations
• Doctors Details – if you do not have a family doctor please provide the details of your local medical
centre
• Health & medical information
• If your child has a medical condition such as asthma and/or anaphylaxis, you must provide a copy
of the child’s medical action plan –including a photo of your child for easy identification. If your
child requires an EpiPen, you will need to provide one (please also check the expiry date of the
EpiPen) for the Service prior to commencement of care
• If your child is listed on any current Court Orders/Parenting Agreements, please upload a copy for
our reference
• Information on any additional support needs e.g. autism, emotional and/or behavior challenges,
ADHD, or global development delay, etc, we will need to organise an on-site meeting to observe
your child in the care environment so that we can accurately assess your child’s individual support
needs and whether such needs can be supported by us. To assist this process, please provide a
copy of their diagnosis and/or treatment report(s).
It is imperative that any changes to your personal details are updated within the MFL Portal so that we
have access to the most relevant information in the event of an emergency.
We do not accept permanent bookings for our Vacation Care program. If you would like your child to
attend our Vacation Care program, a booking form with all excursion permissions must be submitted by
the nominated date each term otherwise a late application fee will be charged.
Annual Re-enrolment Vacation Care
At the end of each year, parents who want to Vacation Care bookings are opened once the
re-enrol their children for the following year must program is released, approximately 5 weeks prior
resubmit their Enrolment Form via the MFL Portal to the start of the school holidays. To book, please
and complete a booking request for inclusion in login to your MFL Portal account and select Add
our Service. Casual Booking under the Casual Bookings section
and follow the prompts. Bookings can also be
Bookings made via the Booking Form available with the
Bookings can be completed online via the MFL program.
Portal or via the Booking Form.
Cancellation of Bookings
Before and After School Care We require 1 weeks notice in writing (email) to
Permanent care: cancel bookings. This applies to Before, After and
To book permanent care, please login to the MFL Vacation Care - otherwise you will be charged
portal and for new families select new request for care. Please note that we cannot swap days
under the Booking Request section. For families without 1 weeks notice.
that already attend care, just click on edit next to
the most recent booking listed under the Current
Inclusion of Children with
Bookings section. Alternatively you can complete Additional Needs
and return a Booking Form. Our Service is inclusive of children with additional
needs. The availability of places for children with
Casual Care: additional needs is determined by government
To book casual care, please login to your MFL guidelines and an assessment of our Service’s
Portal account and select add casual booking ability to provide the level of support required for
under the Casual Bookings section and follow the the individual needs of the child and their family. If
prompts. Alternatively you can email your request you have further enquiries, please do not hesitate
to childcare@kcs.org.au Please note that all to contact the Administrative Office.
casual bookings are subject to availability and we
cannot guarantee that a spot will be available.
OSHC FAMILY HANDBOOK -7-Organisational Chart
Our Children’s Services team is committed, experienced and most
importantly passionate about delivering quality OSHC services. With
a focus on professional development, our team boasts industry
STAFF
EXECUTIVE OFFICER qualifications at both Diploma and Cert. IV levels as well as certifications
in child protection, First Aid, Asthma and Anaphylaxis. Our leadership
team promotes an ethos of continuous improvement and seek learning
opportunities in all areas of our work, to ensure the ongoing provision of
quality care to our families and the school community.
Nominated Supervisor/Responsible Person (RP)
OPERATIONS MANAGER
Under the National Quality Framework (NQF) approved child care
providers must identify at least one Nominated Supervisor for each
Service. The Nominated Supervisor does not need to be present at the
Service at all times; however in their absence a Responsible Person must
be identified and will be placed in day-to-day charge of the Service.
CHILDREN’S SERVICES
MANAGER Responsibilities of the Nominated Supervisor include:
• Delivering a range of educational programs which are based on
children’s developmental needs and interests.
• Ensuring supervision and safety of children.
• Monitoring children’s entry to and exit from the premises including
OSHC TEAM LEADER ensuring children do not leave the Service and parents can enter
(NOMINATED SUPERVISOR) the Service at any time.
• Providing supervision of food and beverages, including ensuring
safe food handling practices, children’s access to a range of
high quality and nutritious food and beverages which take into
consideration any dietary requirements.
• Administering medication in accordance with the National
OSHC COORDINATOR Regulations.
(NOMINATED SUPERVISOR) • Ensuring staff do not consume alcohol or be under the influence
of alcohol and/or drugs (including prescription medication) which
could affect their ability to care for children.
• Arranging excursions including a risk assessment and parental
approval prior to the excursion.
• Ensuring adequate number of staff in accordance with legislatively
OSHC ASSISTANT required staff to children ratios and qualifications.
COORDINATOR • Being the first point of contact if you have any questions or
(EDUCATIONAL LEADER) concerns relating to the Service or your child’s care.
Educator: Child Ratios
At any one time, we follow the nationally required staff to child ratio.
Depending on the needs and activity nature, we also adopt the following
SENIOR EDUCATORS ratio guide:
• 1:15 – In-service - with a minimum of two staff at all times;
• 1:15 - Local Excursions - nearby parks/community facilities (Within
2 kms from the Service);
• 1:10 - Excursions;
• 1:8 - Water based excursion with life guard present;
EDUCATORS
• 1:5 - Water based excursion where no life guard is present.
-8-PROGRAM & PRACTICE
National Quality Framework (NQF)
an
To ensure children get the best possible start in The NQF provides better educational and
life, the NQF has been implemented in NSW to set developmental outcomes for all children, wherever
consistent, high quality standards for OSHC services. they live in Australia and covers the critical areas
The Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality of education, development, health and safety and
Authority or (ACECQA) guides the implementation of provides clear and comprehensive information for
the NQF across Australia. families about the quality of care services available.
The Framework includes:
The National Quality Standard:
The National Quality Standard (NQS) sets National Learning Frameworks
benchmarks for the quality of children’s education
and care services in Australia and is divided into The ‘My Time Our Place’ Framework for School
seven areas that contribute to the quality of care: Age Care assists Educators to provide children
1. Educational program and practice with opportunities to maximise their potential and
2. Children’s health and safety develop a foundation for future success in life. The
3. Physical environment Framework aims to be delivered in partnership with
4. Staffing arrangements children, their families and the community to achieve
5. Relationships with children the following outcomes:
6. Collaborative partnerships with families and
communities • Children have a strong sense of identity;
7. Leadership and service management • Children are connected with and contribute to
their world;
Services are assessed and rated against 7 quality • Children have a strong sense of wellbeing;
areas, 15 standards and 40 elements that make up • Children are confident and involved learners;
the NQS. • Children are effective communicators.
The National Law and Regulations:
The National Law and Regulations guide the
operational requirements of our Service and the
development of our policies and procedures.
In an assessment and quality rating process, KCS
was assessed against the (NQS) in March 2016
and received the Exceeding Quality rating for our
service delivery at Carlton South Public School.
Our Blakehurst OSHC is yet to be assessed. Our
Kyeemagh OSHC was assessed as Working Towards
the Quality Rating which is carried forward from the
last provider.
OSHC FAMILY HANDBOOK -9-OSHC Service Routines
PROGRAM & PRACTICE
Before School Care (BSC) –
Operating Hours:
Carlton South Public School
7:00 am – 9:00 am, Monday to Friday
Blakehurst Public School
7:00 am – 9:25 am, Monday to Friday
Kyeemagh Public School
7:00 am – 9:10 am, Monday to Friday
SCHEDULE CSPS BPS KPS
Service opens. Breakfast is provided
Indoor Play – Free play and programmed 7:00 AM 7:00 AM 7:00 AM
activities
Breakfast finishes
8:00 AM 8:00 AM 8:45 AM
Indoor and outdoor play (weather permitting)
Equipment/Toys/Games are packed away 8:45 AM 9:10 AM 8:55 AM
Children attending off site schools depart the 9:15 AM
8:50 AM NA
service 8:45 AM - Friday
Onsite children are signed out to school 8:55 AM 9:20 AM 9:10 AM
-10-PROGRAM & PRACTICE
After School Care (ASC) –
Operating Hours:
Carlton South Public School
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday
Blakehurst Public School
3:25 pm – 6:00 pm, Monday to Thursday
2:55 pm - 6:00 pm, Friday
Kyeemagh Public School
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday
SCHEDULE CSPS BPS KPS
Educators set up activities and prepare
2:30 PM 2:45 PM 2:30 PM
afternoon tea
Buses depart the service to collect 3:20 PM
2:50 PM NA
children from off site schools 2:50 PM - Friday
Kindergarten children are collected from
2:55 PM 3:20 PM 3:05 PM
the kindy area.
Sign in children from CSPS, BPS & KPS 3:00 PM 3:30 PM 3:10 PM
Afternoon Tea commences 3:10 PM 3:30 PM 3:30 PM
Arrival of buses from off-site schools and
3:40 PM
children are signed in. Afternoon tea is 3:15 PM NA
3:15 PM - Friday
served until 3:30pm.
Daily programed activities commence –
3:30 PM 4:00 PM 4:00 PM
(See term program for activity details)
Outdoor activities are packed away 5:15 PM 5:15 PM 5:30 PM
Indoor activities are packed away and
remaining children participate in quiet 5:30 PM 5:30 PM 5:45 PM
activities
Service closes 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM
OSHC FAMILY HANDBOOK -11-PROGRAM & PRACTICE
Vacation Care (Vac) –
Operating Hours
Located - Carlton South Public School
7:00 am – 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday
SCHEDULE CSPS
Service opens. Breakfast provided Indoor
7:00 AM
Play – Free play and programmed activities
Breakfast finishes Indoor and outdoor play
8:00 AM
(weather permitting)
The daily program commences, including
in-centre outdoor and indoor activities, 9:00 AM
incursions and excursions
Morning Tea 10:00 AM
Lunch 12:00 PM
Afternoon Tea 3:00 PM
Outdoor activities are packed away 5:15 PM
Indoor activities are packed away and
remaining children participate in quiet 5:30 PM
activities
Service closes 6:00 PM
-12-PROGRAM & PRACTICE
Orientation
KCS provides a range of activities which assist Kindergarten Orientation
new children to familiarise themeselves with We also develop an educational program which
our program and help them feel at home in our is specifically designed for 5-6 year old children.
Service. Please see the term program on display at This includes a range of arts & craft activities,
the Service for a full range of activities planned. group games and nature based play. Educators
will review the child profiles at staff meetings to
A designated Educator will be assigned understand your child’s interests and needs before
responsibility to induct/orientate the children into they start OSHC. These interests will influence the
the routines, rules, safety and hygiene procedures. educational program developed by our Educational
Leader.
The Responsible Person/Coordinator will assign all
new children a buddy (older child from year 4+) to Each family will be emailed a copy of the KCS
support their transition into the program. Social Story which they can read to their child in
advance of their first day in OSHC. It helps the
Whilst an Educator always escorts the children children understand what will happen in OSHC and
to travel to their off-site schools by bus, these who they can talk to if they have any concerns. The
children will also be provided with a ‘Bus Buddy’ to Educators will also read this story to the children in
support them with this new experience. Families the first week.
will be informed of the collection point at each of There are a number of administrative procedures
the off-site schools. Full details of the delivery and in place to help support the transition of your child
collection of children procedures are outlined in into the Service which you will be informed of via
our “Delivery and Collection of Children” policy. email prior to your child’s first day. These include
informing the school office and kindergarten of
what days your child will attend OSHC.
Educational Program and Activities
Our aim is to facilitate play based learning in a supportive, meaningful and stimulating environment. The
daily program encompasses individual, small group and whole group activities in both indoor and outdoor
settings, nurturing social, cultural, physical, intellectual and emotional development.
As per our Service Philosophy, we promote the opportunity for children to learn through play at our
Service. Please be aware that while we are happy to provide a space for your child to do their homework,
we cannot provide one-on-one homework support that your child may require. Where possible, KCS
volunteers will assist children with their homework.
Example Program
OSHC FAMILY HANDBOOK -13-PROGRAM & PRACTICE
Food
Before School Care After School Care Vacation Care
Breakfast Provided by KCS Provided by KCS
Morning Tea
Lunch
Afternoon Tea Provided by KCS
KCS encourages healthy eating habits and our menus are designed in line with the Australian
Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents and with reference from Heart Foundation’s
Eat Smart, Play Smart – A Manual for Out of School Hours Care.
Dietary requirements:
Menus are designed to ensure children’s dietary requirements are met and cater for their
cultural, religious and health needs as far as possible. Our Service is ‘Nut Aware’ and does not
provide foods that may cause an allergic reaction to the children who are enrolled with known
allergies.
What is provided at OSHC?
Breakfast (BSC & VAC) 7 - 8 am
Toasted sandwiches, healthy cereal with yoghurt, seasonal fruits & smoothies
Afternoon tea (ASC) until 4pm
• mostly complex carbohydrates such as bread, rice and pasta
• dairy or high calcium foods such as milk, cheese and yoghurt
• good sources of protein and iron such as beef, chicken, baked beans and tuna fish
• a variety of fresh and cooked vegetables such as carrot and cucumber sticks, cooked
tomato, capsicum, cabbage, etc.
• limited use of preserved food, food with additives, high sugar, fat and salt content
-14-PROGRAM & PRACTICE
What to Bring to VAC
Please ensure that you provide your child with the following:
• For sun-safety, children must bring a hat every day; wear a shirt with sleeves (no
singlets); and if attending a swimming or water play program bring a rashie/sun safe shirt.
• Enclosed shoes (no thongs or open toed sandals).
• If your child has a severe allergy please provide suitable food for them to eat whilst at the
service
• A nutritious morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea (use cooler bag with ice brick in summer)
• Spare change of clothes (if messy or water play is on the program)
• For excursions bring a refillable water bottle and small backpack to carry lunch, water, hat
and other items
• Any other items that your child may need will be specified on the Vacation Care program.
Toys and Personal Items
KCS does not take responsibility for any personal belongings (including toys or money) your children bring
to the Service that are lost or stolen. If you choose to allow your child to bring such items, please ensure
that they are labelled with their name. Educators may ask children to hand in certain toys or belongings
should they be at risk of being damaged or misused. These items will be returned upon collection of your
child.
Parent Contribution & Communication
We recognise the importance of parent involvement within our programs, and we understand that for
many working parents time is limited. Therefore we provide a variety of opportunities for parents to be
involved in our Service according to their availability. These include completing short surveys (only one or
two questions), attending family activities at the Service and/or providing feedback on our policies and
procedures.
Any feedback and/or contribution from families to help evaluate and further improve our practices are
warmly welcomed.
Families will receive regular correspondence from us, including our e-newsletter outlining current service
information and any upcoming matters and events.
Please do not hesitate to talk to our Educators if you are interested in contributing in any way. Here are
some ways in which families can contribute to the program:
• Exchange information with our Educators about your child with an aim to address their needs
• Join our KCS Board of Management
• Volunteer your time to share a skill, knowledge or resources with the Service
• Volunteer to assist with children’s activities
• Volunteer with our cooking program
• Share recipes and traditions to enrich the variety and enjoyment of food by the children and
support the children’s development of respect for and understanding of diversity
• Recycle unwanted items for our craft program e.g. wool, paper, collage material (please check
with the Coordinator as to what items are suitable)
• Give feedback on our Quality Improvement Plan (QIP) located in the Service
OSHC FAMILY HANDBOOK -15-POLICY & PROCEDURE
Policies and Procedures
Our policies and procedures are developed in accordance with the National Regulations outlined by the
NQS to provide effective management and efficient operations of the Service.
KCS policies and procedures are available at the Service for your viewing at any time. KCS encourages
parents to review our policies and procedures, particularly those that relate to children’s health and
safety as there are a number of parental obligations outlined within these policies. Any changes to our
Service policies will be notified to parents and an updated version of the policy will be available at the
Service.
Digital Sign In/Out at OSHC
We use a digital system called ‘QK Kiosk’ to facilitate a quick and easy sign in/out process for families. At
the touch of a button you will use your phone number and unique PIN code to sign your child/ren in and
out of the service using our on site iPads.
Signing your child in for the first time:
1. Insert your phone number using the QK kiosk touch screen
2. Sign in with PIN code 0000 then set up your own unique PIN and confirm new PIN
3. Now your log in details are set
4. Next, Select your child’s name and SIGN IN
5. Repeat same process at pick up, Select your child’s name and SIGN OUT
Please note;
• Our staff will provide assistance if required with your initial set up
• If the QK Kiosk (touchscreen) doesn’t accept your phone number, please double check with the
Responsible Person that we have your correct phone number recorded on our system. We can
quickly update it for you so you can log in
• If you have forgotten or need to change your PIN, please ask the Responsible Person in charge for
assistance.
Delivery and Collection of Children - Signing In & Out
Signing In Signing In
(BSC and VAC) (ASC)
Our Service opens at 7am and children cannot be On-site children are signed into care by an Educator
dropped off or signed in before this time. When your at the Service upon their arrival. Off-site children are
child arrives at the Service, they MUST be signed signed into care by an Educator at the designated
in via the digital sign-in system QK Kiosk. Please collection point of each school.
also notify an Educator of your child’s arrival. If your
child’s name does not show on QK Kiosk please tell
the Responsible Person on duty so your child can be
signed into care.
Signing Out Signing Out
(BSC) (ASC and VAC)
Children will be signed out of our care by an Our Service closes at 6pm daily and children must
Educator prior to the start of school each morning. be collected by this time. You must sign your child/
On-site children are signed out by an Educator at the ren out of the Service via the QK Kiosk. Please notify
Service before they walk to their classroom. Off- an Educator or the Responsible Person of your child/
site children are signed out by an Educator at the ren’s departure from the Service.
designated drop off point of each school.
-16-POLICY & PROCEDURE
Authorisation to collect your child
Additional family members or friends recorded in your enrolment form as an emergency contact with
‘authorisation to collect’ can sign in or out your child/ren from the Service. These individuals can set up
their own log in by following the steps 1-5 on the previous page when first signing in/out your child. When
collecting your child, the individual may be asked to produce some photographic identification by the
Responsible Person before signing out your child from the Service.
In case of an emergency or for one-off occasions (e.g. your child is being picked up by a friends parent)
please email these details to childcare@kcs.org.au or complete an ‘Authorisation To Collect’ form at
the Service. When collecting your child, the individual may be asked to produce some photographic
identification by the Responsible Person before signing your child out of the Service.
If someone under the age of 18 is going to collect your child (e.g. older sibling) please complete an
‘Additional Authorisation’ form and return it to the Service or email it to childcare@kcs.org.au prior to the
arrangement.
Late Collection of Children
If you are unable to collect your child by 6pm, please contact the Service as early as possible to notify
them of your delay. A late collection fee of $15 per 15 minutes or part thereof will be charged to your
account. The late fee will be captured by the QK Kiosk and added to your next invoice. KCS has an
obligation to abide by the relevant child protection legislation. Therefore, unless alternative
arrangements have been made for the collection of your child or we have received notification from the
parents of their reason for being late and a timeframe for collection, we may need to notify the local
police station and/or the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) when a child has not been
collected by 6:30 pm.
Absent Children
KCS must account for every child that is booked into our care. Therefore if you know that your child will
not be attending our Service, you would need to notify us via the MFL Portal/App or email
childcare@kcs.org.au prior to your booked session. A $5 non notification fee will apply for ASC bookings.
Sick or Unwell Children
When your child is unwell, quiet rest at home will always be better than attending the Service. Hence, if
you are informed by the school that your child is sick, please bring your child home and visit a doctor if
required. Please cancel the booking with us.
You will need to collect your child from our OSHC immediately if your child is:
• acutely ill and may need to see a doctor;
• too ill to participate in normal children’s activities;
• requiring extra care and supervision to the detriment of the care and safety of the child or other
children;
• ill from gastroenteritis;
• has symptoms or signs of a possible infectious illness.
If your child has a disease that could spread to other children, you should inform us as soon as possible.
In the event of an outbreak of an infectious disease in our Service, unimmunised children will be
excluded for the period recommended by the NSW Department of Health.
Our Service abides by the guidelines of NSW Department of Health in respect of infectious diseases and
exclusions.
OSHC FAMILY HANDBOOK -17-POLICY & PROCEDURE
Child Behaviour Expectations
Safety rules and behaviour expectations are discussed with children regularly at the Service. Behaviour
guidelines focus on respect for oneself, others, and the environment. Children are encouraged to follow
the rules, accept responsibility for their behaviour through positive reinforcement, learn to manage their
emotions and develop conflict resolution skills. Appropriate behaviours are rewarded with encouragement
and recognition. Logical and natural consequences will be given to children when rules are broken or
inappropriate behaviours are displayed. Behavioural issues will be discussed with parents where a pattern
begins to occur or if they are of a serious nature. Challenging or dangerous behaviours may result in loss of
privileges or suspensions from our Service. In supporting children’s behavioural development, we hope that
families will take a consistent approach through discussions and where necessary meetings on behavioural
management strategies with the Coordinator/Responsible Person.
Child Protection
KCS Educators have responsibilities to provide a safe environment for children that are free from any type
of abuse or harassment including sexual, physical or emotional abuse and neglect. Educators have the
legislative obligation as Mandatory Reporters to report any suspected child abuse incidents to the relevant
authorities, including NSW Police, NSW Department of Communities and Justice , Early Childhood Education
and Care Directorate and NSW Ombudsman. During the reporting process, parents may not be the first
person to be contacted and families’ personal information may need to be disclosed even without parental
consent.
Complaints, Compliments and Suggestions
KCS understands that well managed complaints can have positive outcomes for all parties involved. We view
them as an opportunity to reflect on our practice and build strong, lasting relationships with our families. KCS
promotes an ethos of continuous improvement. All families have the right to make a complaint or provide us
with a compliment or suggestion at any time. We regard feedback as an opportunity to improve the services
we provide and we manage feedbacks fairly, promptly, confidentially and without retribution.
Our policy clearly states the expectation of KCS to acknowledge, investigate, respond to and resolve all
complaints within a specific timeframe. We want to ensure families are fully aware of their right to make a
complaint, whom to address this to in the first instance and what to do if they are not satisfied with how it has
been managed by KCS including means of contact of the Regulatory Authority.
KCS is also accountable for reporting complaints to Early Childhood Education and Care Directorate, NSW
Department of Communities and Justice and/or NSW Ombudsman where necessary.
-18-FEES
Payment of Fees
KCS is a not-for-profit community organisation with charitable status. Our fees are set in accordance with the
annual budget in order to meet the income required to develop and maintain quality services for children and
families. KCS is committed to providing quality programs at reasonable prices to ensure that our services are
affordable and accessible to all families in our local community. Please refer to our website for our current fee
structure.
Overdue Fees
Parents are encouraged to discuss any financial difficulties in relation to settling the service fees. We have a
provision within our Fee Payments Policy to establish a payment plan where necessary to assist families to
meet their childcare costs. Overdue accounts will be closely monitored by the KCS Management team.
Please note that any outstanding balances will result in suspension of care until the account is brought up to
date. Vacation Care enrolments will not be accepted until accounts have been paid in full.
Methods of Payment
Fees can be paid by: At our Administration Office only:
• Direct Debit - from your bank account or
credit card (Preferred method of payment) • EFTPOS
• Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) • Cash (no change available)
• Credit Card Payment – via telephone at the
Administration Office
• Bank Deposit – Please identify your child’s
name in the reference line
Invoices are emailed fortnightly on a Tuesday, with direct debit payments processed on the Thursday of the
same week. All other payments are due by the following Friday, prior to the next invoice being sent. Fees are
charged fortnightly in arrears to allow for Child Care Subsidy payments to be applied to the account.
OSHC FAMILY HANDBOOK -19-Child Care Subsidy
Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is a payment from the Commonwealth Government that helps you with the cost of
your childcare. CCS is a single means-tested payment which is paid directly to service providers (KCS) as a fee
reduction for the families. Families then pay the gap of the fees. (KCS’s childcare fee – CCS = fees paid by the
families).
FEES
There are three factors that determine a family’s level of CCS:
• Combined annual family income
• Activity test – the activity level of both parents
• Service test – type of child care service and whether the child attends school
To check your eligibility for CCS, please visit Services Australia’s website: www.servicesaustralia.gov.au
You will need to create and log in to your myGov account, link to your Centrelink account and complete the Child
Care Subsidy
Assessment.
Services will provide a fortnightly statement of how much care was received and how much subsidy has been paid.
Your MyGov account will also contain this information.
To receive CCS payments, a Complying Written Agreement (CWA) is created between the Service (KCS) and the
individual responsible for fees (families). KCS will submit an enrolment notice to Centrelink, who then sends a
notification asking you to review the details of the new enrolment. Once confirmed, CCS will be payable when
session reports have been submitted by KCS.
If you disagree with the details on the enrolment notice, please contact us to clarify any issues and if necessary we
can submit an updated enrolment notice. CCS payments will not be processed until the enrolment is confirmed.
Cessation of Care
CCS will not be paid for absences before the child’s first physical day of attendance or for absences after the
child’s last physical day of attendance.
In summary,
• If a child is booked in to start care on a particular date, and does not start on that day, no CCS will be paid
until the child physically attends a session of care
• If a family has confirmed their child’s last day at the Service but that child does not attend their last booked
session of care, no CCS will be paid for any days after the child’s last physical attendance at the Service
• Hence it is extremely important that families provide the appropriate notification when cancelling care.
Financial Assistance Allowable Absences
The Australian Government provides families with Families are allowed 42 absence days per child, per
financial assistance to help cover the cost of approved financial year. These 42 allowable absences can be
childcare. An eligibility criterion applies. For more taken for any reason without the need for families to
information and to register: provide documentation.
Call Services Australia on 13 61 50 (8 am - 8 pm, CCS can be paid for any additional absences where
Monday to Friday) 13 12 02 - for information in they are taken for a reason defined in the Family
languages other than English or visit their website: Assistance Law. For further information please visit
www.servicesaustralia.gov.au the Services Australia’s website.
Families must supply us with Customer Reference
Numbers (CRN’s) obtained from Services Australia.
We need your registered parent (Family) CRN and a
(CRN) for each child registering for our service.
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