Abstract

In the past year, the Out of School Alliance (OOSA) has been a pillar of strength and guidance for the wraparound childcare sector, leading with influence, support, and innovation. As we stand at a pivotal moment where our sector is finally receiving the attention it deserves, the question arises: where do we go from here?

This keynote will explore the next steps to capitalise on this momentum and secure a thriving future for wraparound childcare. We’ll reflect on our journey so far, identify opportunities that lie ahead, and discuss how we can collectively ensure that we make the most of the current focus on our sector.

How This Connects to the Sustainability Theme

Together, we’ll outline key steps that we can take to not only sustain but also elevate the quality and reach of wraparound childcare across the country. This is a time to dream big, to set ambitious goals, and to envision a future where every child and family benefits from high-quality, accessible childcare services. Join us as we chart a path forward, stronger together, and ready to seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

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.