Bookings now open for Staffordshire’s summer activities programme

Bookings are now open for this summer’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme in Staffordshire, running from Tuesday 22 July to Friday 29 August 2025. 

The Department for Education (DfE) funded HAF programme aims to support children to eat more healthily, be more active over the school holidays and have a greater knowledge of health and nutrition as well as be more engaged with school and other local services.

Thousands of eligible children and young people across the county will be able to take part in a wide choice of exciting, funded activities, while also enjoying a healthy hot meal each day where possible.

Delivered at schools, community venues and leisure centres countywide, the programme offers a ‘pick and mix’ of fun and engaging sessions including everything from sports and outdoor adventure to DJing, gaming, gymnastics and animal care.

More than 100 local clubs are taking part this year, offering around 50,000 funded places for children and young people aged 5 to 16 who receive benefits-related free school meals.

Eligible children can book up to 16 free sessions, lasting up to four hours each.

Some clubs are also offering additional paid places, giving even more children the chance to get involved.

Parents and carers can book online for both funded and paid places via the Staffordshire County Council website.

Nicholas Lakin, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Staffordshire County Council, said: “We are so pleased to introduce some new providers this year and welcome back some familiar faces as we embark on another summer of creating unforgettable experiences for children and young people across Staffordshire.

“We received an overwhelming number of applications from organisations to deliver this year’s programme and all successful providers are meeting the national HAF quality framework.

“Our summer HAF programme is about more than just activities – it’s about supporting learning, building confidence, making friends and, most importantly, having fun during the school holidays.

“Whether your child wants to try something new, meet others, or just enjoy being active, there’s something for everyone.”

To book or to find out more, visit the HAF homepage on the Staffordshire County Council website.