From 22 September 2014 YMCA and Gumdale State School will partner to provide the best Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) service to the local community. This partnership is a direct result of YMCA being identified as the preferred OSHC service provider for parents and children of Gumdale State School.

The YMCAs approach to Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) is to provide a high quality environment that is safe and gives children the opportunity to learn and play. Before School Care, After School Care and Vacation Care programs and activities are aligned with the YMCA mission – to build Strong People, Strong Families and Strong Communities.

“The Gumdale State School community can feel confident knowing that their children are in the care of highly qualified, dedicated and passionate team members” stated YMCA OSHC Manager Kristy Commens.

YMCA services offer a wide range of fun, stimulating and appropriate programs that reflect real world experiences and home settings. This helps encourage a sense of community amongst the children, facilitates leadership skills development and allows children to practice social skills in a supported caring environment.

YMCA OSHC Area Coordinator Natasja Lindgren said “We are looking forward to commencing these school holidays with our Holiday Club (Vacation Care) program and providing exciting and fun activities for children in our care.”

The provision of Outside School Hours Care services is a core component of the YMCA since 1992. The YMCA currently manages five childcare programs – Early Education Centres, Family Day Care, In-Home Care, Limited Hours Care and OSHC. These services are based across South East Queensland and care for on average over 3,850 children daily.