The Goodwood Education Trust was proud to be a Provider for the Holiday, Activity and Food Programme (HAF) for Summer 2024.
Funded by the Government, and co-ordinated by West Sussex County Council, the HAF programme offers engaging activities for children eligible for means-tested Free School Meals, while also providing nutritious, balanced meals to keep them active and well-nourished during the summer.
During August, the Trust offered its popular Forest Adventure sessions, where children could choose from a wide range of outdoor activities. From fire-lighting and den-building to natural crafts and using hand tools, the program gave participants the freedom to explore and learn at their own pace. The ever-popular mud kitchen and serene hammock added to the fun and encouraged relaxation.
Spending time in nature is known to have profound benefits for children's mental and physical wellbeing. The relaxed and supportive environment at Goodwood Education Trust fosters social interaction, creative expression, and personal growth. In fact, 90% of the children attending the programme reported that they had "made new friends or reconnected with friends they wouldn’t normally see."
Catherine Cannon, Goodwood Education Trust Manager, highlighted the success of this year’s offering:
"We know time in nature is so important for children. Building on the success of 2023, the Trust offered 120 places, which was an increase of 40%, and every place was booked at the start of the holidays."
In addition to the engaging activities, the Trust provided nutritious, two-course hot lunches during every session. With 100% of children agreeing that they "ate a healthy meal" and "were active throughout the day," the program proved to be a perfect balance of fun and nourishment.
Steph Baxter, HAF Project Co-ordinator said, ‘The West Sussex County Council HAF programme prides itself on offering a wide variety of experiences for children receiving benefits related free school meals. We were delighted to have the Goodwood Education Trust in the programme again this year, increasing their provision to meet demand from families. Their Forest Adventures offer an enriching outdoor learning experience in beautiful woodland, and on our visit, we were thrilled to see the children exploring nature and making new friends’.
By offering a mix of adventure, creativity and healthy meals, the Goodwood Education Trust is proud to have contributed to the wellbeing of children in the community through the HAF programme, making Summer 2024 one to remember.
