The Department for Education (DfE) informed local authorities that as part of its Best Start in Life mission, the government confirmed the Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) Programme will be extended until May 2029. The HAF contract would operate under a lead provider model who would be responsible for the sub-contracting, management, co-ordination and delivery of activities through providers.
The HAF programme provides enriching activities and nutritious meals supporting health, wellbeing and learning readiness as well as supporting parents and carers. This multi-year settlement will enable more strategic planning, innovation, and long-term partnerships, supporting value for money and ensuring that children and young people continue to benefit from enriching holiday experiences and nutritious meals.
The programme runs through the Easter, Summer and Winter school holidays and is a holiday provision for school aged children from reception to year 11 (inclusive) who receive benefits-related free school meals and attend a Stoke-on-Trent school.