Extended Services is the name given to a range of activity that aims to address those issues that prevent children, young people and their families achieving their full potential. It is seen by many as a key delivery mechanism for The Every Child Matters agenda and initially was focussed on schools. 

As the agenda has progressed, it has become a term used to encompass not just the work of the schools but also that of Children's Centres and youth service providers and thus can be viewed as an agenda that supports children and young people across the 0-19 age range as well as their families.

Whilst schools are not expected to deliver this agenda on their own, they are seen as universal gateways through which children and their families can access a range of services and activities.  The aim is to provide a range of provision that promotes Early Intervention and Prevention by providing easier access to information, activities and services when they are needed rather than waiting until the child or family reach crisis point.

Provision should be based upon locally identified need and although there is no blueprint, schools are expected to consider 5 main areas of activity - this is known as the Full Core Offer for Extended Services:

• Childcare or for older children a Safe Place to Be
• A varied menu of Study Support Activities
• Parent Support
• Swift & Easy Access to specialist services
• Community Access to school facilities

For further information contact extendedservices@northamptonshire.gov.uk.