What is outside school hours care (OSHC)?
Outside school hours care (OSHC) is supervised childcare provided before and after school hours and during school holidays for children attending primary and secondary school.
OSHC stands for outside school hours care and refers to child supervision and activities provided before school starts, after school finishes, and during school holiday periods. It is designed for children who are enrolled in primary or secondary school and whose parents or guardians work during times when school is not in session.
OSHC differs from long day care, which is full-time care for younger children (typically under 5 years) throughout the working day. Instead, OSHC operates on a school-dependent schedule: morning sessions before school begins, afternoon and early evening sessions after school concludes, and full-day or extended sessions during school breaks such as term holidays, Christmas holidays, and pupil-free days.
Most OSHC services in Perth Metropolitan operate from school premises, community centres, or dedicated care facilities. They provide structured activities, homework support, recreational programs, and meals or snacks. Some services offer flexibility with casual bookings for occasional use, while others operate on regular enrolment bases for families needing consistent care.
OSHC is regulated by state and national childcare standards and typically requires staff to hold relevant qualifications and Working With Children clearances. For families juggling school schedules and work commitments, OSHC provides a reliable option for children during the hours when formal schooling is not available. To find accredited providers near you, visit the before and after school care directory.