Big Norfolk Holiday Fun - Winter 2025
Provider applications for the winter Big Norfolk Holiday Fun programme are now open. We would particularly like to hear from schools who would be interested in hosting or running activities.
Children receiving benefits-related free school meals can access 4 free activity sessions during the school holidays, from 22 December - 5 January (excluding Christmas & New Years bank holidays and weekends). They will be able to learn new skills, meet new friends, and access a healthy meal at no cost.
Schools have reported that the BNHF, supported by the Department for Education's HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) programme, has contributed to improved levels of school attendance. This was found amongst children who attended a holiday club, as they were given the chance to build their social skills and make new friends over the school holidays in a supportive environment.
Schools who hosted or ran provision also listed positive benefits from engaging with the programme. Extra Time at Robert Kett Primary School offer a predominantly outdoor play experience, engaging many of the students that attend their school. They have supported the programme since its inception and have noted the impact on families, children, and themselves.
"It has enabled us to offer places to those families who would not normally be able to afford to send their children to this type of provision... For the children in our school, it enables us to have face to face contact with some of our families we support and some reassurance that those children are receiving all the benefits that the programme has to offer."
Miss Fahy, headteacher of Robert Kett comments "I highly recommend all schools to seize the opportunity to be part of the HAF (BNHF) programme, I am incredibly proud that our Extra-Time provision is part of this project, but equally I am also thrilled that we are able to offer children and families the opportunity to be part of the exceptional provision we offer".
Other benefits noted amongst schools who run activities include the staff's existing familiarity with the children attending their sessions, aiding with transition between academic years, and additional work opportunities for school staff during the holidays.
Applications for prospective providers are now open. To find out more about applying to be a provider, visit the BNHF provider FAQs for more information. If you are interested in hosting or running activities during the school Christmas holidays, please email [email protected] to register your interest. Applications will be reviewed from 13th October.
Likewise, if you have any further questions about the Big Norfolk Holiday Fun programme, please email [email protected].
