Winter HAF 2024: Wrapping Up a Season of Smiles and Support
As another successful Winter HAF Programme comes to an end, we look back on the countless smiles, enriching activities, and unforgettable memories created with families across Stoke-on-Trent.
We’ve provided not only engaging activities for children from Reception to Year 11 but also healthy meals for every child attending. With most sessions fully booked, the Winter HAF has been another resounding success in bringing happiness, enrichment, and community connection to families during the festive holidays.
The success of the programme is truly a team effort. Through a unique partnership between Stoke-on-Trent City Council, The Department for Education, and The Hubb Foundation we all ensure the HAF Programme reaches as many families as possible, and we are grateful for this collaboration.
We want to take a moment to shine a spotlight on a few more incredible partners who have made this winter truly special through their dedication and creativity bringing the HAF programme to life.
A Spotlight on PEGiS (Parent Engagement Group in Stoke)
The Parent Engagement Group in Stoke – built by parents, for parents created a space for families to connect, learn, and have fun together. The sessions were filled with energy as children climbed slides, jumped on blocks, and even got stuck in the foam pits. Over the two weeks, PEGiS welcomed over 140 children.
The impact of the sessions went far beyond the activities themselves, fostering new friendships, promoting learning, and helping children build resilience and essential coping skills. These moments serve as a powerful reminder of why the HAF Programme is such a vital resource for our community.
PEGiS –A forum/support group for parents/carers of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and/or Disability (SEND), young people (up to the age of 25) with SEND to engage in informal discussion around educational issues and concerns.
To find out more information about PEGiS and their workshops click here.
Oh Yes it Was… A MAC Panto Workshop to Remember…
Among the highlights of the Winter HAF Programme, MAC Education brought the magic of theatre to children with their lively and inclusive Panto Workshop. The workshop invited young people to step into the enchanting world of Aladdin, where they explored the script, embraced the exaggerated acting styles of pantomime, and brought some favourite characters to life.
The sessions were packed with dancing, energetic performances, and plenty of audience interaction where children proudly showcased their creativity, confidence, and newfound skills.
Take a look at the magical moments from our panto adventure and see the stars in action!
MAC Projects – dedicated to making high-quality stage experiences accessible to those on the free school meal programme. By breaking down financial and social barriers, this collaboration ensures that children who might otherwise be unable to participate in the arts can enjoy and benefit from these enriching experiences.
Young People have Bee-n Active Bouncing into Christmas with Winter HAF
This winter, Bee Active brought the magic of the holiday season to life with their Bounce into Christmas sessions, hosted at three venues across Stoke-on-Trent. These action-packed events, funded for young people eligible for HAF, combined fun, games, and exciting activities with nutritious meals to keep everyone fuelled for the festivities. To top it all off, children were treated to a special visit from Santa, adding an extra sprinkle of holiday cheer!
Alongside the festive fun, Bee Active also provided an incredible opportunity for young people aged 12-16 through their Sports Leadership Programme. Aspiring young sports coaches took part in a dynamic week of learning, gaining the skills and confidence to deliver engaging physical activities. By the end of the programme, the participants earned a nationally accredited Sports Leaders qualification, equipping them to become confident, healthy leaders in their communities.
Bee Active truly made this winter unforgettable, blending fitness, learning, and holiday magic to inspire young people across the city.
As Bee active are off busy planning their holiday clubs for February half term we say goodbye to this year’s Winter HAF Programme. We want to extend our thanks to the children, parents, partners, and volunteers whose efforts and enthusiasm made this programme such a success. Together, we’ve created lasting memories, built connections, and strengthened our community.
Until next time, stay connected – don’t forget to visit our Facebook page to relive the highlights and see all the incredible activities that made this winter so special for so many.
And keep an eye open for our Annual HAF Programme Report for a full review of the impact of our HAF programme.
