Zele and OKO&ZO Strengthen Out-of-School Care Until 2032

A new cooperation agreement ensures stability for the expansion and enhancement of childcare activities in Zele.

Generic image of hands working together on a puzzle, symbolizing community effort.
AI

Generic image of hands working together on a puzzle, symbolizing community effort.

The municipality of Zele, along with partners, has prepared the new Out-of-School Care and Activities (BOA) policy, with a new agreement strengthening OKO&ZO's operations until 2032.

Over the past year, Zele has worked intensively with various partners to shape the new policy for out-of-school care and activities (BOA). This process included a survey of Zeelse parents, the development of a vision for out-of-school care and activities by the local administration, and the creation of a local recognition framework.
The collaboration with OKO&ZO is crucial in this process. A new cooperation agreement, running until 2032, provides the organization with the necessary stability to further develop and strengthen its activities.
For the coming years, Zele remains committed to providing high-quality and accessible services for children and families. This includes investments in the training, knowledge sharing, and support of childcare partners and supervisors. Efforts are also underway to explore how parents can more easily find and use the offerings, focusing on a user-friendly system and online registration options.
Inclusion receives extra attention through the provision of 'prikkeldozen' (stimulation boxes) and 'prikkelhuisjes' (stimulation houses) to childcare initiatives and schools. These spaces offer children who need a quiet environment the opportunity to withdraw and find calm.
With the recognition of OKO&ZO as a BOA partner, a solid foundation has been laid for the future. Zele aims, in collaboration with schools, childcare initiatives, and other local partners, to continue seeking solutions that respond to the changing needs of children and families, thereby building warm, high-quality, and accessible out-of-school care for all Zeelse children.
Based on information from the official source: Gemeente Zele (29/09/2026)