Over 1,500 children from across the city enjoyed holiday club sessions during the Easter school holiday, trying activities ranging from breakdancing to DJing. Now in its fourth year in Derby, the Holiday Activities and Food Programme is an initiative funded by the Department of Education and managed by Derby City Council in partnership with Community Action Derby.
The programme aims to make sure that children who would normally receive a benefits-related free school meal don’t miss out during the holidays.
Easter 2025 saw 28 different providers delivering 44 clubs across Derby, including eight clubs specifically focused on children with special educational needs or disabilities. Almost 4,000 meals were served and, in addition to delicious, nutritional food, children were encouraged to take part in exciting experiences and activities, many making new friends along the way.
Kids tried their hand at everything from song writing and acrobatics to padel, dodgeball and wheelchair basketball. There were also forest schools and a dino discovery session, where young people could become palaeontologists for the day, taking part in a dinosaur dig, baking and games.
Another highlight was a visit to one club from Matt’s Minibeasts, where children learned about and held a wide variety of creepy crawlies and creatures, from colourful stick insects to scaly reptiles. There were critter-themed crafts and games, including a bug hunt and painting session – all creating a school holiday to remember.
Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:
It’s fantastic to see so many children and families benefiting from our Holiday Activities and Food Programme. The Easter clubs not only provided nutritious meals, but also offered children the chance to try something new, build confidence, and make lasting memories.
I’m especially proud of the inclusive opportunities available for children with additional needs. We’re committed to continuing this important work and look forward to an even bigger and better summer programme.
The free holiday clubs run during Easter, summer and winter breaks, and the team are now looking forwards, with exciting plans in the works for the summer activity clubs. Any organisations interested in running a HAF club are invited to apply for funding; guidance and the application form can be found on Community Action Derby’s website.