Families with special needs children need additional support because 24-hour care for a disabled child is difficult.
Children with special needs want to go to clubs with their friends and enjoy activities, but sometimes they need extra support to make this possible.
“This club is making such a positive difference to family life. The activities that are provided for young people are quality activities with clear objectives rather than just being childcare or childminding. Each club day adds great quality of life experiences to the young people that attend.” Parent evaluation, 2016
Brief History
The Hollow Lane Club was set up by parents and staff at Ellen Tinkham School in 2001 who recognised the need for a new type of club that would meet the needs of children and parents.
Initially a summer club for 35 children, the Hollow Lane Club now runs after schools clubs, Saturday clubs, a huge summer programme and additional support for siblings too.
Our clubs now run from two Devon schools – Ellen Tinkham in Exeter and Bidwell Brook in Dartington.
The day to day activities of the club are run by a team of specialised and experienced Managers and Playworkers.
Trustees
The club became a charity in 2004 and has a Committee of Trustees who oversee the workings of the club. These trustees still represent the origins of the club – parents of children that use the services, and staff from the schools that host the clubs. We are always keen to hear from new people that would be interested in helping to manage, steer and develop our charity. If you would like to discuss this with someone please contact one of the current trustees, or a member of staff.
The current Hollow Lane Club Trustees are:
- Amelia Robinson
- Nikki Burroughs
- Sharon Foxwell
- Matthew Byrne
- Kate Nicholls
- Robert Fitzpatrick
Policies and Procedures
Our policies and procedures are available to view via the Policies page of this website.
Charity Information
The Hollow Lane Club is Registered Charity no: 1186520
Ofsted Information
In January 2020 we were inspected by Ofsted who graded us meeting requirements (there were no under 5s present at the time of inspection and so ‘met’ or ‘did not meet’ were the only grading options. A copy of their report can be found at https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/16/EY291660, and on the Ofsted website.
The report refers to the Hollow Lane Club “providing children with the very best play and learning experiences they possible can” and noted “laughing and giggling can be heard throughout the club, as children enjoy their activities with each other and staff”.
