Purpose
Beckington After-School Hub (BASH) provides a safe, relaxed and enjoyable environment where children aged 8–13 can play, connect and unwind after the school day. Activities are designed to be sociable, inclusive and age-appropriate while ensuring that safety is carefully managed.
This policy explains how BASH plans activities and manages risk so that children can enjoy themselves in a safe and supportive setting.
Approach to Activities
Activities at BASH are designed to be informal, enjoyable and varied. The emphasis is on social connection, creativity and play rather than structured instruction.
Typical activities may include:
• Table tennis
• Table football
• Board games (such as draughts or chess)
• Skittles and indoor games
• Outdoor games and sport (weather permitting)
• Nature exploration and outdoor play
• Quiet games and conversation areas
• Refreshments such as hot chocolate
Children are free to move between activities, with volunteers supervising and supporting the group.
Activities are adapted where necessary to ensure that all children can participate, including those with additional needs.
Supervision
Children attending BASH are supervised at all times. A ratio of 1 supervisor to no more than 10 children is maintained.
Volunteers are present throughout the session and maintain a clear awareness of where children are and what they are doing. Volunteers actively support positive play, inclusion and safe use of equipment.
Attendance is recorded at the beginning of each session so that the team knows which children are present.
Planning Activities Safely
All activities are planned with safety in mind. Volunteers consider the suitability of activities for the age group and the space available.
When planning activities, BASH considers:
• The age and number of children attending
• The suitability of equipment
• The space available within the hall or outdoor area
• Any known medical conditions or additional needs
• Weather conditions for outdoor play
Equipment is checked regularly and unsafe or damaged items are removed from use.
Risk Management
BASH aims to manage risk sensibly while allowing children to enjoy active play and exploration.
Risk assessments are carried out for:
• The venue and facilities
• Regular activities and equipment
• Outdoor play areas
• Any special or one-off activities
These assessments help volunteers identify potential hazards and take practical steps to reduce risk.
Examples of risk management measures include:
• Ensuring clear playing spaces for games such as table tennis
• Safe storage of equipment when not in use
• Supervision of outdoor play
• Monitoring weather conditions before outdoor activities
• Ensuring appropriate footwear and safe behaviour during physical play
Risk assessments are reviewed periodically and updated if activities or circumstances change.
Outdoor Activities
Where outdoor play is possible, children may take part in games or simple exploration activities.
Outdoor activities are supervised and take place only in areas considered safe and suitable. Volunteers ensure children remain within agreed boundaries.
First Aid and Incidents
A first aid kit is available at every session and trained first aiders are present.
If a child is injured:
• First aid will be provided as required.
• The incident will be recorded.
• Parents will be informed where appropriate.
Serious incidents will be handled according to BASH emergency procedures.
Encouraging Safe Play
Children are encouraged to enjoy activities responsibly.
Volunteers remind children to:
• Play fairly and safely
• Respect others and the equipment
• Follow guidance when using games or sports equipment
• Tell a volunteer if something feels unsafe or if someone is hurt
This approach helps children develop awareness, responsibility and respect for others while enjoying the activities offered at BASH.
Review
This policy is reviewed periodically to ensure that BASH continues to provide activities that are safe, enjoyable and appropriate for the children attending.