Children in Derby will once again have access to an exciting schedule of activities over the school summer break, as the Derby Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF) returns.
Derby City Council continues its partnership with Community Action Derby to provide free holiday club places during the school holidays. The scheme is designed for children aged 5 to 16 who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals, offering them the chance to learn new skills, stay active, and enjoy time socialising with friends in a fun and engaging environment.
Participants will receive a healthy meal each day and have opportunities to learn about nutritious food through family food experiences and cookery sessions. This initiative aims to support families while encouraging healthier lifestyles.
Registered families will receive an email or text from ‘Holiday Activities’ with their child’s voucher code, which they’ll need to book, and a link to the booking system. The new voucher codes will replace any that have been issued previously.
Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:
We’re thrilled Derby's Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) program is returning this summer, bringing free, fun-filled activities and nutritious meals to thousands of children.
It continues to go from strength to strength, with more exciting new providers joining us for the summer. There’s something for everyone and places fill up fast, so don’t miss out on the chance to join in the fun!
There are 58 clubs running during the holiday, offering a range of activities in all wards across the city. There are six special educational needs and disability (SEND) specialists, plus many of our other providers can support children with additional needs.
The holiday clubs will offer the chance to try new and enriching activities including animal handling, climbing, music and performing arts as well as sports like football, cricket, judo, dodgeball, archery and wheelchair basketball!
This summer, new providers include Derbyshire Cricket Foundation, whose diverse programme offers activities from sports and outdoor wildlife walks to scavenger hunts, animal encounters, and arts and crafts. There will also be healthy eating and living sessions, exercise sessions at Nuffield Health Derby Fitness and Wellbeing gym and tickets to Derbyshire County Cricket Club match days.
Junior Adventures Group (JAG)’s programme features a varied daily schedule across seven core categories, ensuring no two days are alike. With passionate staff, JAG aims to foster creativity, learning, inclusion, and well-being, allowing children to explore, discover, grow, and make lasting memories.
Another new provider, Spiral Arts will offer sessions including clay work, sculpting, papier-mâché, painting, or crafting, at Arboretum Park. It’s a fantastic opportunity to create art, connect with nature, and enjoy a brilliant day with the Spiral Artists!
For full details about Derby's Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, including information on your booking code, please visit the HAF website. If your child is unable to attend an activity for any reason, please inform the provider as soon as possible so their place can be offered to another child.