Following a successful 2023 where thousands of eligible children and young people benefited from HAF, the Department for Education funded programme is continuing in 2024.
Shropshire Council is working in partnership with local schools, voluntary and community organisations, and childcare providers to run exciting holiday clubs over the three main school holidays.
This spring there are free places available on the HAF programme for children and young people aged four (reception class age) to 16, who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals.
There are also a limited number of free places available for children and young people living in areas of high deprivation and/or from low-income households, who are not in receipt of benefits related free school meals. These children and young people can be referred onto the programme by a professional. Places are also available for Ukrainian families, currently staying in Shropshire with host families.
Kirstie Hurst-Knight, Shropshire Council cabinet member for children and education, said:-
“Last year thousands of eligible children and young people benefited from HAF. They had the opportunity to have fun, take part in physical activity, learn new skills, and enjoy a healthy meal all whilst spending time with their friends.
“Through funding from the Department for Education we are delighted to be able to offer a HAF programme in Shropshire again this year. I’d like to encourage all eligible families to book onto HAF. There is a huge range of activities happening, with free meals provided at each session.”
From Monday 25 March to Friday 5 April 2024, eligible children and young people are invited to take part in a range of fun free activities, happening at over 40 holiday clubs from across the county.
There is something on offer for everyone including sports, arts, cooking, forest schools and other exciting opportunities. Free nutritious meals will be provided at each session, as well as information to benefit the whole family.
The spring what’s on guide and details of how to book are available online here.
Some of the holiday programmes also include paid spaces for children and young people who are not in receipt of free school meals.
For more information on HAF in Shropshire, for a copy of the what’s on guide and to sign up to the HAF e-news, click here.
