Play schemes and holiday clubs

These services can offer a wide range of activities such as sports, outdoor and indoor games, arts, crafts and drama.

Currently there is not an extended day Holiday Play Scheme available within the City of London. 

But the City of London Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme is available primarily during the Easter, summer and Christmas school holidays for children and young people - eligibility and age ranges may vary. For more information visit: City of London Holiday Activities and Food Programme - City of London Family Information Service

The City of London Best Start Family Hub Half-Term Programme is designed to give eligible City of London children and young people aged 5–16 opportunities to have a free week of fun activities, try new experiences, build friendships and confidence, and enjoy their school holiday in a safe and supportive environment. Lunch will be provided each day. The Programme will take place typically in the months of October, February, and May/June. Places are limited and families are encouraged to register as soon as dates and locations are confirmed. Visit our What's On page to find the latest information.

Who can attend?

  • eligible for benefits-related free school meals
  • have caring responsibilities (young carers)
  • have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND)
  • are known to Children’s Social Care or Early Help
  • are from families who may otherwise be unable to access school holiday activities due to financial circumstances

If you need help completing the registration form or would like to discuss your child’s needs before registering, please contact the Best Start Family Hub: Email: beststartfamilyhub@cityoflondon.gov.uk Telephone: 0203 838 1420

SocietyLinks also provides their regular drop-in sessions offering access to activities, trips and the annual Summer Youth Programme - visit SocietyLinks - City Base Youth Clubs - 8-19 (up to 25 with SEND) - City of London Family Information Service

Weavers Adventure Playground, Viaduct Street, London, E2 0BU provides an inclusive, open access and fully supervised adventurous play environment for all young people under 16, in Tower Hamlets and City of London five days a week during holidays from 11am - 5.30pm. Please contact them to check accessibility details, costs etc. Web: Weavers Adventure Playground | Home  Email: weaversad@btconnect.com  Tel: 02077291295

To find up-to-date information about the latest Holiday and Play Schemes available visit our What's On page.

For general information about Play Schemes and Holiday Clubs see below.

The hours they open will depend on the scheme but some will offer extended days from 8am to 6pm for an additional charge. If the times they are open don't meet your needs it may be worth talking to the manager to see if they can offer alternate hours.

The average fee is usually between £24 to £35 per day. A settings offer subsidised places and some schemes will offer concessions or discounts for early booking.

If the club is registered with Ofsted you may be able to get help towards your childcare costs through the childcare element of Working Tax Credit or Universal Credit or by using childcare vouchers or Tax-Free Childcare.

Most will take children from the age of four to 12 years but this is different for each club as it will usually depend on the age of the school they are based in or near to.

You can apply for a place by contacting the holiday play scheme directly. You can search for Ofsted registered play schemes in their directory: Find before and after school and holiday clubs - GOV.UK

Or to find more about other London based holiday play scheme providers visit:

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