Unicorn Play Club – Drop-Off and Ofsted Exemption Policy
Purpose of This Policy
This policy outlines the structure and boundaries of Unicorn Play Club’s drop-off model, specifically the 2-hour session rule. It explains how our programme fits within the Ofsted exemption for early years settings and provides clear information to parents and inspectors.
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Our Legal Position
Unicorn Play Club operates under the Ofsted exemption for settings providing care for less than two hours per day per child. According to the Childcare Act 2006 and Ofsted guidance, registration is not required if:
- No child attends for more than 2 hours per day;
- The setting is not a substitute for nursery or school provision.
- Activities are occasional, educational, or recreational.
Our club follows this rule strictly.
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Session Format
Each session at Unicorn Play Club lasts no more than 2 hours. We provide carefully structured play-based learning experiences, with activities that promote physical, emotional, and creative development. A sample plan is attached for clarity (e.g. “Insects Need Our Help to Get Home!”).
Activities include:
- Free play
- Imaginative movement games
- Sensory play (e.g. shaving foam, ice)
- Arts & crafts
- Role-play and storytelling
These sessions are not repeated multiple times per day for the same child. Parents can only book one session per day.
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What Is Permitted
- Children may be dropped off for a single session lasting no more than 2 hours
- The setting operates once per day per child
- Each child is aged 3 or above
- Parents are fully informed and provide consent
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What Is Not Permitted
- Sessions exceeding 2 hours
- Multiple sessions per day for the same child
- Use of the club as a daily substitute for nursery, preschool, or school
- Enrolling under-3s in drop-off sessions
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Supervision and Safety
All children are:
- Signed in and out by a parent/carer
- Cared for by trained, DBS-checked staff
- Supervised in small groups with age-appropriate activities
- Supported by our full safeguarding and health & safety policies
If a child needs to leave before the session ends, a parent must collect them directly from the site. We maintain full records of attendance and incidents
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Communication with Parents
All parents receive this policy as part of our welcome information. By registering for drop-off sessions, they agree to follow this policy and confirm they understand the 2-hour rule.
📝 Parent Registration and Consent
Before attending a drop-off session, all parents must complete our registration and consent form, which collects emergency contact details, medical needs, permissions, and agreement with our policies.
✅ To register your child, please complete the form here:
https://forms.gle/itbBGts9wNMDMpwc8
By completing the form, you confirm that:
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Your child is aged 3 or older
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They will not attend for more than 2 hours per day
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You understand this is not a substitute for nursery or childcare
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You accept our safeguarding and session policies