Free spaces for Easter activities
Published: 8 April 2022
The Isle of Wight Council is reminding parents that some free spaces are still available for several activities and food schemes being run from 9 April to 24 April.
A wide range of activities are on offer for five to 16-year-olds — from horse riding and water sports to circus skills and drama — as part of the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, which also guarantees a nutritious meal.
Free places are available for children and young people who receive benefits-related free school meals and on a paid-for basis as well.
Places are also available for children and young people on Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP), those open to social care, or with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet lead for children's services, said: "These schemes can be of enormous help to children from families who are facing financial difficulties.
"School holidays can be challenging because of the added expense of food and childcare, as well as reduced incomes.
"This means some children are less likely to access organised out-of-school activities and can miss out on the social and health benefits.
"By taking part in a free holiday club where a nutritious meal is provided, children get to have the same rich experiences as many of their friends and peers and, most importantly, have fun, spend time with friends and make new ones.”
The HAF programme is funded by the Department for Education and forms part of the council's connect4communities programme, details of which can be found here.
The following organisations are offering activities and parents and carers wishing to find out more should contact the provider directly:
West Wight Nursery
West Wight Nursery are offering places for five to ten year olds. Tel: (01983) 640190 or email: manager.westwightnursery@gmail.com
Ventnor Community Early Years
Ventnor Community Early Years are providing sessions offering activities including gymnastics, dance, arts and crafts, sports, and woodlearn forest school and much more. For five to ten years old. Email: ventnorcommunityearlyyears@gmail.com or call (01983) 856868.
Starling Songwriters
Song writing and recording workshops for ten to 16 year olds. Absolutely no musical experience required. Please use the following form to sign-up: google.com
If you have any enquiries, email: starlingsongwriters@gmail.com or call Chris on 07432739733 or Maria on 07868651050.
Island Riding Centre
Riding sessions with a healthy lunch provided for ages six to 14. Bookings: (01983) 214000 or haf@islandriding.com
Aspire Ryde
Kids play sessions and healthy meal in the Kingdom play activity centre for five to 18 year olds. Email: info@aspireryde.org.uk or call (01983) 716020.
CM Foundation's Youth Days Out
CM Foundation are providing four activity days including watersports and street cooking. Especially for young people ages 11 to 16 attending secondary school. Email: sam@cm-foundation.co.uk for more information and bookings.
CM Sports
CM Sports is offering sports coaching and arts and crafts activities for eligible children aged five to 11 at Barton Primary and Nine Acres Primary. Bookings: 02392 987881 or visit: http://www.cm-sports.co.uk
Theatre Educational
Theatre Educational has a range of professional, experienced community arts tutors who will provide arts and theatre themed activity for seven to 16 year olds at Oakfield Primary and Barton Primary schools. Visit www.theatreeducational.co.uk for full details or call 07984 170014.
