An outdoor education centre is now able to accept tax-free childcare.

The Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre on Knightsdale Road in Westham has become Ofsted registered, meaning eligible children will be able to use tax-free childcare. 

Part of the Dorset Outdoor Education Service run by Dorset Council, the centre will now be able to provide more opportunities for children and young people in the area access to its wide range of adventurous, physically enriching educational activities at a more affordable price for many families.

The Dorset Outdoor Education Service also provides short breaks at all it's centres in addition to holiday activities and term time after-school clubs for children and young people at its Weymouth centre. 

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The newest addition being their Little Explorers nature-based adventure club for seven to 11- year-olds.

Older children can also enjoy enriching social activities such as rock climbing, sea kayaking and dinghy sailing.

Theresa Leavy, executive director for children's services at Dorset Council, said:  "The benefits of tax-free childcare extend beyond financial savings; it also gives parents more options when it comes to choosing from childcare settings that best suits them, including after-school clubs, sports activities, and holiday camps.

"We are delighted the Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre is now one of these options."

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Childcare funding options, particularly tax-free childcare, are a vital helping hand for many families.

Tax-free childcare is a government scheme that provides eligible families with a 20 per cent top-up on childcare costs, up to £500 every three months per child up to the age of 12, or £1,000 for a young person with a disability under the age of 17.

This means that for every £8 paid into the childcare account, the government will add an additional £2, making it easier for families to manage the costs associated with quality childcare and education.

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Tax-free childcare can also be used alongside other funding options, such as the 15 hours for 2-year-olds. Or 30 hours funding for 3–4-year-olds.

To make an enquiry or to book one of these sessions at the Weymouth Outdoor Education email woec@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

To find out more on tax free childcare visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/-/tax-free-childcare-information-for-parents