Holiday Clubs are set to welcome thousands of young people this Summer

18 July 2025
Graphic to advertise Summer Holiday Clubs in Wirral


As the school year draws to a close, a network of 75 Holiday Clubs are set to open their doors to thousands of local young people for the return of the Summer Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF). 

Wirral Council has partnered with Edsential CIC to deliver another unforgettable summer of creativity and adventures through a wider range of clubs than ever before, offering outdoor activities, team sports, creative workshops, performing arts…and much more.

The Chair of Wirral’s Children, Young People and Education Committee, Councillor Stephen Bennett, said:

This Summer’s Holiday programme is gearing up to be the biggest and brightest yet. Whether it’s nature trails and forest school, gaming and STEAM challenges, dance and drama, or learning to cook tasty recipes, every day will bring a new opportunity to learn, play, and grow. There are even some activities especially for older children such as wellbeing and life skills workshops.

Best of all, every session includes a free, nutritious meal, so children and young people can stay fuelled and nourished throughout the day.

Feedback from parents and young people who took part in the previous HAF programme, which ran during the Easter school holiday, praised the inclusive atmosphere, energetic staff, and the positive impact it had on the participants’ confidence, health, and happiness.

Heather Lewis, HAF Programme Manager at Edsential, said:

We’re so excited to launch Summer HAF 2025. Our dedicated partners and club leaders have worked hard to create an inspiring mix of activities that reflect the interests and needs of our local communities. We want every child to feel safe, supported and above all happy. That’s what HAF is all about.

Wirral’s HAF programme is funded by the Government’s Department for Education and is open to young people aged 5 to 16 years in receipt of benefits-related free school meals. 

Parents and carers are encouraged to check if their child is eligible for free school meals as it could enable them to take part in this and future holiday programmes and unlock a range of other support. More information about free school meals is posted on the Wirral Council website

To see what Holiday Clubs are available and to apply for a place, please visit the Edsential website.


About Edsential:

Edsential is a community interest company dedicated to enriching the lives of children and young people through innovative educational initiatives. By collaborating with schools, local authorities, and communities, Edsential strives to create inclusive and empowering learning environments where every child can flourish. Through programmes like HAF, Edsential is committed to nurturing the development of young minds and fostering a brighter future for all. Visit Edsential.com to learn more.

You can also follow Edsential’s summer activity programme on their FacebookInstagram, and X channels.