Abstract

In the ever-evolving landscape of wraparound childcare, defining and achieving “quality” has become a central, yet often elusive, goal. This workshop will explore the multifaceted nature of quality in out-of-school settings, emphasizing the importance of context, play, and reflective practice in shaping our understanding of what quality truly means.

Participants will engage in critical discussions on the limitations of existing quality assurance frameworks, the role of play as a cornerstone of quality experiences, and the challenges of aligning policy with the lived experiences of children. We will also explore strategies for involving families in meaningful dialogues about quality and how providers can balance external standards with the unique needs of their communities.

How This Connects to the Sustainability Theme

Through this interactive session, we will chart a course for future notions of quality in wraparound childcare, identifying key actions that both individual providers and the sector as a whole can take to ensure that quality is not only achieved but continually redefined in a way that benefits children, families, and providers alike. Join us as we rethink quality and envision a future where wraparound childcare is recognised for its essential role in child development and community support.

Biography

Rebekah Jackson Reece is a highly respected childcare success coach and consultant, specialising in the out-of-school and wraparound childcare sector in England. With over 20 years of experience, she is the founder of The Bold Type Training & Consultancy Limited, a specialist childcare consultancy company, and the CEO of Out of School Alliance, the leading support and advocacy organisation for out of school provision in England. Rebekah has made significant contributions to the childcare sector, advocating for greater government support and investment, sector recognition and policy change.

As a passionate playworker, Rebekah believes that running a childcare business can be both rewarding and enjoyable. Her approach is grounded in her deep commitment to playwork and the belief that quality childcare should prioritise children’s lived experiences. Through her leadership at the Out of School Alliance, she has been instrumental in shaping national policies, including working alongside the UK Government in the development of the National Wraparound Childcare Programme.

Rebekah’s career began in the charity sector, where she managed holiday playschemes and respite care for disabled children in mid-Wales. This experience ignited her lifelong dedication to inclusion, leading to nominations for the Northern Power Women Awards in 2022 and 2023 for Inclusive Innovation.

Her extensive experience includes roles in local government, where she developed and led childcare strategies, quality assurance and training programmes, and the roll out of national childcare initiatives balanced against local context. Rebekah’s work has made significant contribution in shaping national frameworks, such as the Welsh Government’s 30-hour childcare programme and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.

Rebekah holds an MA in Children’s Play & Playwork and is a licensed Performance Mindset Coach and NLP Practitioner. She is also a trainer and assessor for the PARS Playwork training programme, a nationally recognised speaker, and a member of the editorial board for the International Journal of Playwork Practice. Outside of work, Rebekah competes at an international level in British Eventing and has a background in high-performance swimming.

Through her consultancy, Rebekah continues to offer bespoke training, coaching, and consultancy services, helping childcare providers achieve sustainable success. Her work is characterised by a commitment to excellence, inclusion, integrity, and capacity building, making her a leading figure in the childcare sector in England.