Out of School Care and Recreation (OSCAR) Programmes are before school, after school and school holiday programmes for children age 5 to 14. They are recreation based where the care of the child has formally been handed over from the child’s parent or caregiver to the OSCAR provider. OSCAR programmes are operated by community organisations or individuals independently of The OSCAR Foundation.

OSCAR programmes can choose to become approved by Child, Youth and Family (CYF). They are then able to apply for a government grant annually to assist with the operating costs of their programme. The parents who utilise CYF approved programmes may be able to access the Work and Income Childcare Subsidy (if they meet the specified criteria).

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The OSCAR Foundation is a non profit organisation established to actively represent, promote and support Out of School Care and Recreation Services (OSCAR) within New Zealand.

The OSCAR Foundation believes that the children and young people of Aotearoa/New Zealand have the right to care, recreation and leisure activities in their out of school time which are safe, fun, age and culturally appropriate.

The OSCAR Foundation also believes the families/whanau of Aotearoa/New Zealand have the right to safe, accessible, affordable, available, quality out of school care and recreation services within their own communities. These services provide constructive opportunities for children to use their leisure time creatively, in a caring and positive environment.

The OSCAR Foundation has a team of advisors located in various regions around the country. Their role is to provide advice and support to new and existing OSCAR programmes. Not only do they visit all funded OSCAR programmes on a regular basis but also facilitate training and networking opportunities.

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