Families across Staffordshire will soon be able to book places on a new Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) October half-term programme.
Delivered by Staffordshire County Council and funded by the Department for Education, the programme supports children and young people aged 5 to 16 who are eligible for targeted free school meals. This marks the first time the successful scheme has been available during a half-term holiday.
Bookings open on Monday 5 October at 4pm, with eligible children able to book one funded session during the October half-term break. A nutritious meal will be provided for activities lasting more than two hours, and many providers will also offer paid-for places.
The programme will feature a range of fun, active and seasonal activities, including Halloween-themed crafts, sports, games, outdoor adventures and challenges such as rock climbing.
One provider, Vysions Youth Services, has demonstrated the positive impact holiday activities can have on young people by shaping sessions around participant feedback. Activities have included skateboarding, scooter sessions, rap workshops, creative activities and youth voice discussions, helping young people build confidence, learn new skills and make friends.
Sue Merriman, from Vysions Youth Services, said:
The HAF programme has given young people a real voice in shaping what they take part in. By listening to feedback and adapting activities, we've seen strong engagement from the start.
Giving young people choice has helped build confidence, encourage peer learning and create a sense of ownership. Parents have told us their children are returning home proud, confident and excited about the new skills they've learned."
One parent said:
It's my daughter's first time and she was nervous, so we only booked one day as a test. She came home buzzing and we booked all the remaining days. She cannot wait for the next programme. The staff have been fantastic and she comes home proud of herself after trying new things."
Su Beardmore, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Staffordshire County Council, said:
We're delighted to launch our first HAF programme for the October half-term holiday.
Our summer and Easter programmes have been hugely popular, and this pilot allows us to extend that support beyond the main school holidays.
Children can look forward to a fantastic mix of activities, from seasonal crafts and creative workshops to outdoor challenges, helping them stay active, make friends and learn new skills in a safe environment."
The October programme is being introduced as a pilot. If successful, Staffordshire County Council hopes to build on the initiative and offer HAF activities during future half-term holidays.
For more information and to book a place visit www.staffordshire.gov.uk/haf
