Background
School holidays can be particular pressure points for some families because of increased costs (such as food and childcare) and reduced incomes. For some children that can lead to a holiday experience gap - with children from disadvantaged families less likely to access organised out-of-school activities; more likely to experience ‘unhealthy holidays’ in terms of nutrition and physical health; and more likely to experience social isolation.
Free holiday clubs are a response to this issue and evidence suggests that they can have a positive impact on children and young people and that they work best when they provide consistent and easily accessible enrichment activities, for more than just breakfast or lunch, and when they involve children (and parents) in food preparation.
Aim and Objectives
In 2021, the DfE will be providing grant funding to local authorities to coordinate free holiday provision - including healthy food and enriching activities - for children who receive benefits-related free school meals (FSM). It will of course be optional for eligible children to attend this provision if they wish.
The DfE also encourage local authorities to make the holiday clubs available to any children not eligible for free school meals, who can pay to attend.
