Question 1

What is our Mission Statement?

Accepted Answer

At Laochra Academy, we believe that every child’s voice should be heard. Through our commitment to high quality care, we create a nurturing and engaging space. As an essential part of the local community, we provide before and after- school care at a time when services are needed.

Question 2

What activities are available each afternoon?

Accepted Answer

Each afternoon, there’s a wide range of exciting activities to choose from. If you enjoy being creative, you can join art , where we explore painting, drawing, and crafts. For those who love to stay active, there are various sports sessions, including football, basketball, dodgeball. If you're into building and inventing, then LEGO is perfect — we design amazing structures and even try LEGO challenges. If you're curious about how things work, science offers fun experiments and hands-on investigations. And if performing is your thing, our drama group gives you the chance to act, play games, and maybe even rehearse for a play!

Question 3

What are your opening and closing times?

Accepted Answer

Our opening and closing times may vary depending on the specific School. We recommend visiting the locations (https://www.laochraacademy.ie/locations)section of our website to find the most accurate and up-to-date information for each school.

Question 4

Do you provide a snack in the afternoon?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide a nutritious, healthy snack each afternoon. The snack includes a balanced range of fruits, vegetables, dairy, carbohydrates, and meat, ensuring children receive the energy and nutrients they need to stay focused and active throughout the afternoon. All options are carefully selected to support their well-being and development.

Question 5

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

Laochra Academy proudly operates across five school locations in Co.Cavan: St. Clare’s Primary School, Killygarry National School, Farnham National School, Drumkilly National School, and Castletara National School. For specific details about each school's address and offerings, we recommend visiting our Website.(https://www.laochraacademy.ie/locations) There, you'll find comprehensive information to help you choose the location that best suits your needs.

Question 6

What happens if a friend or relative is going to collect my child?

Accepted Answer

For the safety and security of all children, we require written permission in the event that someone other than the agreed authorised person will be collecting your child. Alternatively, the individual must be added to the approved collection list in advance. Without prior written consent or verification on the approved list, we will not be able to release your child to that person. This policy is in place to ensure the well-being of every child in our care.

Question 7

Can I take a break(gap) in my booking during the Holidays?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our holiday care bookings are not mandatory and instead are offered as an additional service to regular term time bookings. 
We offer half-day and full-time childcare options during school holidays, which includes October mid-term, February mid-term, Easter holiday and Summer holiday programmes. Our themed holidays programmes are enjoyed by all. See our Holiday Programmes (https://www.laochraacademy.ie/holiday-programme)for upcoming camp details.

Question 8

Does your Service close throughout the year?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our service does close at certain times throughout the year. We are closed on bank holidays, during the Christmas period, and for one week during the summer holidays. These closures allow our team time to rest and reset, ensuring we continue to provide the highest quality of care and activities throughout the year.

Question 9

When and how do I pay my fees?

Accepted Answer

We send invoices every 4 weeks to keep fee payments clear and manageable. Our primary payment method is by Direct Debit, which can be set up easily on completion of our Direct Debit mandate.

If you are not paying by Direct Debit, each invoice will include our bank transfer details for your convenience. When making a payment, please use your unique account code as the payment reference; this code can be found just above your name on the invoice. Using the correct reference helps us to quickly and accurately allocate your payment.

Question 10

What if I need to cancel the service?

Accepted Answer

If you need to make changes or cancel your service, please reach out to our team as soon as possible; at a minimum we require two weeks' written notice.

Question 11

What happens on a half day when the school closes at 12 o’clock?

Accepted Answer

On days where the school day ends early, we commence our normal after school service at the earlier time of 12 o’clock to accommodate our current service users, and we do so at no additional charge.

Question 12

Can I pick my child up early if I need to?

Accepted Answer

You can collect your child anytime before 5:30pm. Currently, we do not offer hourly bookings in an effort to maintain the correct staff child ratio throughout the afternoon. If you book your child in for the afternoon, whether they are in attendance for one or multiple hours, that is a space that another child will not be able to avail of.

Question 13

How can I book an additional day for my child?

Accepted Answer

You can do this quickly and easily through our parent portal. You will see a tab ‘Bookings’ when you log in to your account. 
 
 • Click ‘New booking’. 
 • Select the child name you wish to make the booking for (one or multiple). 
 • Select the pick up time
 • Select your booking week and day/days. 
 • Send a request.

If we have space available we will approve your booking. 
Please note, the portal will only allow bookings prior to the week commencing, so up until Sunday evening before.

Question 14

Do you offer a siblings discount?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer sibling discounts for term time bookings. We offer a 10% discount for the 2nd child and 15% discount for additional children.

FAQ