The Rotherham Healthy Holidays programme for children and young people is back with a bang this summer, promising an even more exciting line-up than before! Parents in the local community are urged to secure spots for their children as early as possible to avoid missing out on this incredible opportunity.
Once again, Rotherham Council has joined forces with a diverse range of providers throughout the borough to offer an extensive selection of holiday activities, kicking off from 24 July. The best part? Many children, including the 11,000 recipients of benefits-related free school meals, can enjoy these activities completely free of charge. In addition, numerous providers offer affordable paid options for those who are not eligible for the free scheme.
This year’s programme boasts an impressive total of 59 distinct activity sessions spread across the entire borough. It is the largest number of sessions offered since the inception of Rotherham Healthy Holidays during Easter 2021. To ensure the well-being of the participants, every session includes a nutritious meal, allowing children to fuel their bodies and minds for an unforgettable summer experience.
From arts and crafts to computer game design, martial arts, football, parkour, BMX, boxing, and much more, there is something for everyone. And in an exciting twist, Rotherham Healthy Holidays has teamed up for the first time with Jessica Steele, the South Yorkshire-based star of Britain’s Got Talent and The Voice. Jessica will be offering singing, acting, and dancing activities exclusively at Monkwood Primary School in Rawmarsh from 21 to 24 August. This special opportunity is available for children aged 5 to 11 years, providing a chance to unleash their artistic talents and embrace their creative sides.
To secure a free place for their child, parents are required to collect a unique reference number from their child’s school. It’s important to note that any activities held within a school are open to all children, not just those attending the school.
Councillor Victoria Cusworth, the dedicated Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Rotherham Council, expressed her enthusiasm for the programme’s success, saying, “Our Rotherham Healthy Holidays programme continues to be highly sought-after, and it’s wonderful to see an expanded range of activities thanks to the excellent providers across our borough. I urge parents to secure their child’s place as soon as possible.”
Councillor Cusworth also acknowledged the challenges faced by many families, particularly those with limited financial resources, during the summer break. She emphasized the positive impact of the Rotherham Healthy Holidays scheme, which served over 23,000 meals to local children during the Easter, Summer, and Winter school holidays last year. The provision of engaging activities and nutritious meals is a testament to the council’s commitment to supporting families in need, and it has been warmly received by parents in the community.
For further information or to book a place, interested individuals should reach out to the activity providers directly.
Editor’s Comment:
The Rotherham Healthy Holidays programme is set to make a triumphant return this summer, offering an even more extensive range of activities for children and young people. The collaborative efforts of Rotherham Council and various providers across the borough have resulted in a record-breaking line-up of 59 activity sessions. From sports to arts and everything in between, children will have plenty of options to keep themselves engaged and entertained.
A notable addition to this year’s programme is the inclusion of Jessica Steele, a talented performer known for her appearances on Britain’s Got Talent and The Voice. Steele will be hosting singing, acting, and dancing activities, bringing her expertise and passion to Monkwood Primary School in Rawmarsh. This exciting opportunity allows children between the ages of 5 and 11 to explore their creative talents under the guidance of a seasoned professional.
The provision of free places for children receiving benefits-related free school meals is a commendable initiative by the council. It ensures that those who may face financial challenges can still participate in these enriching activities. Furthermore, the inclusion of meals in every session is a thoughtful touch that recognizes the importance of proper nutrition for children’s well-being.
Councillor Victoria Cusworth, the Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, deserves recognition for her dedication to this programme. Her words reflect the understanding of the difficulties faced by families during the summer break, particularly those with limited incomes. The Rotherham Healthy Holidays scheme has already made a significant impact, providing over 23,000 meals to local children during the previous school holidays. The council’s commitment to supporting families in need through entertainment and nutrition is truly praiseworthy.
As the demand for these activities is expected to be high, it is crucial for parents to secure their child’s place promptly. By collaborating with activity providers directly, parents can ensure that their children don’t miss out on this remarkable opportunity.
Overall, the Rotherham Healthy Holidays programme demonstrates the power of community collaboration and serves as a shining example of how local initiatives can positively impact the lives of children and families. With an exciting lineup and the unwavering commitment of Rotherham Council, this summer is bound to be one filled with fun, growth, and lasting memories for the young participants.
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