Healthy Holidays Leeds is helping children and young people stay active, well-fed and entertained during the school holidays with a wide range of free clubs and activities across the city.
The programme, which is Leeds’ local name for the Department for Education’s Holiday Activity and Food Programme, runs during the Easter, summer and Christmas breaks for children from Reception to Year 11 who are eligible for income-related free school meals. Backed by Government funding, the scheme offers families access to holiday sessions at no cost, providing children with nutritious food as well as a variety of fun and engaging activities while school is out.
More than 80 clubs take place across Leeds, delivered by schools, community organisations and council services. Activities vary by venue, giving children and young people the chance to enjoy everything from sports and games to creative sessions and social activities in a safe and supportive setting.
Parents and carers are required to register before making a booking. Once an account has been created and a registration form completed for each child, families are notified when eligibility has been confirmed and can then book places when sessions go live. Families are also being encouraged to cancel places if they are no longer needed, helping to ensure that as many children as possible can benefit from the scheme.
While the programme is primarily aimed at children who receive income-related free school meals, some children and young people who do not qualify under that criteria may still be able to take part if they meet the wider eligibility requirements.
Organisers have also reminded families to check event details carefully, as some clubs are only open to children who already attend a particular school or group, or those invited directly by the provider.
Healthy Holidays Leeds continues to play an important role in supporting families during the school breaks, giving children the chance to enjoy healthy meals, make friends and take part in positive activities close to home www.healthyholidays.leeds.gov.uk
Free school meals can be claimed by parents/carers receiving one of the qualifying benefits listed on the Gov.uk website www.gov.uk
