OSCAR: Information for approved providers
Information for approved OSCAR providers.
The OSCAR Standards for Approval
The following Standards for Approval and the Provider Guidelines were introduced in 2005. These are the Standards you will have to meet at your next Approval Review:
Where can I get general advice and support on OSCAR?
Free government-funded support and advice is available to all OSCAR providers through the OSCAR Foundation. You can either:
- call 0800 466 7227
- visit the OSCAR Foundation website
You can also get advice from Child, Youth and Family:
- call 0508 326 459
What if I buy an existing business that is already OSCAR approved?
OSCAR approval is not transferable. A new application for approval is required where an existing business changes ownership. This applies even if there are no changes to the staff, policies or facilities. We suggest you discuss this with Child, Youth and Family:
- call 0508 326 459
What if I want to move an approved programme to a new location?
If you want to move to a new location you must advise Child, Youth and Family. It will assess the new location and issue an approval which is specific to this new site.
What if I want to add another site to my business?
This applies to situations when you are approved to run a programme at a specific site (eg number 5 Brown Street) but you now also want to operate your programme from an additional site (number 7 White Street). If you want to add an additional site you must advise Child, Youth and Family. They will assess the new site and issue an approval which will also include the number of children you may have on the new site.What if I want to add another programme to my existing site?
This applies to situations when you are approved to run an OSCAR programme (eg an after school programme) but now also wish to run another type of programme (eg holiday programme) at the same site. You must discuss this with Child, Youth and Family. They will advise you of what information they need to see to approve the additional programme.Who do I notify if I want to relinquish my OSCAR approval?
If you wish to relinquish OSCAR approval you must notify Child, Youth and Family in writing. However, we suggest you give them a call first to talk about your reasons for relinquishing OSCAR approval.What funding can I get?
OSCAR Assistance Funding helps with the day to day costs of running before school care, after school care, school holiday programmes or camps. You must be an OSCAR approved provider to apply for this funding.
The amount you get depends on your programme’s level of need and there is a maximum amount per programme that you can apply for each year.
Where can I get more information about support for parents and caregivers?
Parents and caregivers of 5 -13 year olds (or up to 18 years if a Child Disability Allowance is paid for that child) may be eligible for an OSCAR Subsidy. Parents need to meet certain criteria.
Our local childcare co-ordinators can assist you with all enquires relating to subsidies.