I read with interest the article about Government funding to extend school hours (The Argus, June 20).

I am concerned many children will be incarcerated in a structured school environment for a substantial percentage of the day.

After-school clubs are an excellent idea but when will the children who attend them get to use their imagination by playing made-up games, have a change of scenery or just relax after a day at school?

Expectation on children to achieve at school has increased, which is why they should leave this pressured environment to allow them to be just a child, even if only for a few hours after school.

I am also concerned parents will be attracted to this kind of childcare without fully looking into its pitfalls. For example, if they are late home from work financial penalties are often applied.

I was offended by the comment from Debbie Crossingham, the headteacher of Westdene Primary School, arguing that after-school clubs are probably more reliable than a childminder.

I have been a registered childminder for 25 years and have had two days off sick in all that time. I also know many other childminders with an equally good track record.

In that time, I have cared for children when their parent's train from London has been delayed until 8pm, had children arrive at 7am in the morning when a parent has had an important meeting, taken children to ballet, football, Cubs, birthday parties, swimming lessons and dropped them home afterwards.

I would like to see an after-school club give that level of service.

As with all Government initiatives, the idea sounds good but parents should tread carefully. There will be many drawbacks and, as usual, the Government makes promises without giving the matter enough thought. Remember nursery vouchers?

It would have been better if advice had been sought from people who have been offering this service for years, instead of mostly male Government ministers, who are far-removed from reality.

-AG Newins (Mrs), Brighton