Children and families across the Isle of Wight are being invited to take part in what organisers are calling the “biggest Summer HAF programme yet”, with six weeks of free activities and healthy meals on offer during the school holidays.
The popular Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme will return from Monday 27th July through to Friday 28th August, delivering a packed schedule of sessions designed to keep young people active, creative and well-fed over the summer break.
Funded nationally by the Department for Education and delivered locally by the Isle of Wight Council, the HAF scheme aims to support children from low‑income families by offering free holiday clubs, nutritious meals and enriching experiences.
What the programme offers
This year’s programme promises a wide range of activities, with both returning favourites and new providers taking part.
Children and young people can expect to try their hand at everything from horse riding and watersports to bushcraft, sports coaching, arts and crafts, music and theatre, alongside opportunities for socialising and building confidence.
Sessions will take place at venues across the Island, including outdoor locations, schools and community settings, with activities tailored to different age groups.
Open to all abilities
Inclusivity remains at the heart of the HAF programme, with both mainstream and specialist activities available to ensure children of all abilities, including those with SEND, can take part.
Organisers say the aim is simple: to ensure young people not only stay active but also learn new skills, make friends and enjoy memorable experiences during the holidays.
Every session will also include a healthy, nutritious meal, reinforcing the programme’s focus on wellbeing and healthy lifestyles
Why it matters for families
The HAF programme has been developed to help address the challenges some families face during school holidays, including increased costs and reduced access to childcare.
By providing free activities and meals, the scheme helps ensure children remain active, engaged and socially connected, while also easing pressure on household budgets.
What the organisers say
Rhea Martin, HAF delivery officer, said,
“We’re incredibly excited to be bringing the biggest summer HAF programme to the Island this year.
“There really is something for everyone, from sports and outdoor activities to creative arts and new experiences.
“Our aim is to give children and young people the chance to have fun, try something new, make friends and enjoy healthy meals in a safe and supportive environment throughout the summer.”
Councillor Ros Freeman, chair of the children’s services, education and skills committee, added that the scheme continues to play a vital role for local families.
“The Holiday Activities and Food programme is an important part of the support we provide to families across the Isle of Wight.
“Not only does it give children access to enriching activities and healthy meals, it also helps tackle some of the pressures that school holidays can bring.
“We are proud to be able to offer such a wide range of opportunities again this summer and would encourage eligible families to take advantage of what is on offer.”
Who can take part and how to book
Free places are primarily available for children and young people who receive benefits‑related free school meals, typically covering school-aged pupils from reception through to Year 11.
A limited number of discretionary places will also be available for families who may not meet the criteria but would still benefit from attending.
Parents and carers are being urged to act quickly, with bookings opening at 12pm on Tuesday 23rd June via the Island’s online HAF booking system.
Further information about activities and providers can be found through the Isle of Wight Family Information Hub, with support available from the HAF team for those needing help: [email protected]
Families can make the most of additional support this summer through the Government’s The British Summer Savings – Cost of Living Help, offering a range of ways to save.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
