What is the cheapest childcare option for 3 children?

[PercyPigPie]

Obviously we want something good & safe, but what is cheapest for 3 children (9,7&4)?

Holiday club will cost £105 a day - is there a cheaper way (only need one-three days a week).

If it's only during holiday time then try the local nurseries, ours has holiday clubs.

At those ages I would say 4yo in club, 9 and 7 yo with a babysitter.

If it is only school holidays approach a local uni with an education course or a college doing childcare. They will put a note on the board. Good experience for them (as you will also give a reference)

Otherwise try and find a teaching assistant from a school. A lot do care in school holidays and 3 days a week is ideal as they still get time off. I am assuming you will also be on holiday for part of hols as well.

Thank you. Trying to keep them all together as they get on quite well. Will try school teaching assistant - thanks. What do you think I would be paying for a teaching assistant for 8am-3pm? hourly rate?

Thanks again.

Depends where you are - at a guess £6-£10 an hour depending on age, experience etc.

Depends where you live. In the north they earn between £7-9 an hour but varies massively. Probably depends if it's cash in hand (not that I said that of course!).

Not in London, so hopefully could pay £50 the day rather than £105 for holiday club.