Summer in Stoke-on-Trent has been bursting with energy and laughter as The Hubb Foundation have once again delivered another successful Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme.
Across 29 days of fun, more than 28,000 activity places were offered to local children and families.
From sports and adventure to arts, tech, and wellbeing, there truly was something for everyone. With 161 partners and 51 schools working hand in hand, the city came alive with creativity and collaboration. A true example of what’s possible when a community works together.
Community Collaboration in Action
Since 2022, The Hubb Foundation has proudly coordinated the HAF Programme in partnership with Stoke-on-Trent City Council, ensuring that children and families can access high quality, inclusive holiday provision. Every partner, from sports coaches, artists, to enrichment specialists and catering teams each year play a vital role in creating safe, nourishing, and memorable holiday experiences for families across the city.
And as this year’s summer programme was coming to a close, the Government confirmed a further £600 million investment to extend the HAF programme for another three years, through to 2029.
Highlights Across the City
Alongside returning enrichment providers like Pep the Poet and Circus in a Box, new sessions from Chloe Breeze Illustrations, City Music Service, ComputerXplorers, Nelly’s Nest, and New Vic Borderlines gave children, and young people chances to explore creativity, technology, the arts, and nature in inspiring ways. Families this summer also enjoyed 43 exciting day trips, from Formby Beach, Stoke Ski Centre, Trentham Gardens to Ninja Warrior.
Feedback from families and providers has been overwhelmingly positive, showing that variety drives engagement. By offering a broader mix of sports, arts, tech, and wellbeing opportunities, more children found something they loved and kept coming back for more.
| “They have loved going in and have been really happy throughout the 6 weeks. I have not taken them anywhere else as this was something they preferred over other days out.” “It’s been the best summer yet! The activities have been very enjoyable and they have loved attending. It’s helped them all physically and mentally. We can’t thank you enough.” “She is very much interested in the activities. Much appreciation to advance group and sincere thanks to Hubb for making school holidays a happy and entertaining one.” |
In partnership with Stoke-on-Trent City Council this summer also saw the HAF programme reach further into local neighbourhoods through the Strengthening Communities initiative. Three large scale Community Fun Days were held in Meir, Abbey Hulton, and Ball Green – offering free activities such as climbing walls, inflatables, bushcraft, football sessions, arts and crafts, and nutritious packed lunches.
Over 1,000 people attended across the three events, which families described as “welcoming, fun, and much needed.” These events truly brought holiday fun to families’ doorsteps, helping everyone to feel part of their local community.
Building Skills for the Future
HAF 2025 has continued to create meaningful opportunities for young people, with a focus on practical learning, leadership, and personal growth.
Construction Skills with The Spark Group this summer gave 14 to16 year olds hands on experience in trades like electrical work, plumbing, and joinery inspiring career aspirations and new skills.
And Sports Leadership with Bee Active saw 20 young people achieve the Sports Leaders UK Level 1 Qualification, helping them develop confidence, communication, and leadership abilities that will benefit them in school and beyond.
A Huge Thank You from The Hubb Foundation
We want to say a big thank you to everyone who has helped to make Summer HAF 2025 such a success, from our dedicated schools, partners, providers, and volunteers to the incredible children and families who joined in the fun. Everyone’s enthusiasm and support has helped to bring thousands of smiles to Stoke-on-Trent.
Check out more highlights from our amazing summer, head to our Facebook page.
And don’t forget to sign up for our monthly newsletter to stay up to date with future programmes, events, and opportunities.
The planning is already in full swing for Winter HAF, starting from Saturday 20th December until Sunday 4th January, keep a look out on our website for booking information.
Featured post image: Summer HAF 2025, The Hubb Foundation
