Families across Staffordshire can now book free places on this year’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) summer programme.
Funded by the Department for Education and delivered by Staffordshire County Council, the programme supports children and young people aged 5–16 who are eligible for benefit-related free school meals.
Running throughout the summer holidays, The programme offers more than 42,000 places for children and young people to enjoy a fun, active and enriching school holiday. Eligible children can attend up to 16 fully funded sessions, with a nutritious meal provided at most activities. Many providers also offer paid-for places, helping ensure even more families can take part.
Activities include sports, dance, drama, outdoor adventures, water sports, creative sessions and wellbeing activities.
Building on the success of previous years, the expanded teen offer for 11–16-year-olds continues this summer, with some providers offering development and training opportunities alongside traditional holiday activities.
One provider, Bee Active, has introduced a Sports Leaders UK Level 1 qualification as part of its HAF offer for teenagers. The nationally recognised course helps young people build confidence, leadership skills and practical experience through sport, while gaining a qualification that can support future learning.
Steve Swallow, Operations Manager for Bee Active said:
“By delivering a nationally recognised Sports Leaders qualification, we’ve seen young people grow in confidence, develop leadership skills and start to think differently about their future.
“It’s been incredibly rewarding to watch them step up as role models, support younger children and leave the programme with a real sense of achievement.”
Fifteen-year-old Jake Dawson, who took part in the programme, said:
“I’ve always loved sport and being outdoors – it’s given me so much confidence. Running the football sessions has been amazing, especially seeing others get involved and enjoy it. It’s even made me start thinking about becoming a teacher one day.”
Nick Lakin, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“Our summer HAF programme is about much more than keeping children busy. It’s about helping them grow in confidence, learn new skills and have positive experiences during the school holidays.
“With more than 42,000 places available and up to 16 sessions per child, families can really benefit from what’s on offer this summer.
“It’s particularly encouraging to see providers like Bee Active offering qualifications and leadership opportunities for teenagers, giving them a real sense of purpose and achievement.”
For more information or to book a place, visit the HAF webpage.
