HAF Programmes

The Marches Academy Trust hosted a number of holiday activity and food programmes (HAF) over the festive period. The HAF programme is designed to support families over school holiday times offering free places for children and young people aged 4-16 who are eligible for benefits like free school meals. Children took part in a range of activities including sports, crafts, cookery and Christmas themed team building activities. The Trust had sessions at Tilstock CE Primary School, Longlands Primary School, The Zone in Market Drayton, Grange Primary School plus for the first time, hosted one in Sutton Hill, Telford where 15 children and young people took part. In total across all of the venues, over 100 children and young people attended where not only do they take part in the activities but also receive a hot meal and healthy snacks. Ann, a parent, comments “My two boys both attended the Christmas HAF programme at The Grange Primary School based in Shrewsbury. The HAF staff that ran the programme were absolutely fantastic! They were so engaging, enthusiastic and inviting to all of the children. Both my boys had the best time and it made such a difference at Christmas. What a credit to the school! Well done and I really hope the HAF Programme continues over the school holidays!” George Hounsell, Director of Sport and Community for the Marches Academy Trust adds, “We were delighted to see so many children and young people up to the age of 16 attend these sessions. The sessions have a positive impact on wellbeing and provide a safe place for children to pay, learn and socialize with friends. Another part of the funding allows us to support families with food hampers, this year we delivered 30 making a positive difference to the lives of people in our communities.
We can’t wait to host more HAF programmes in the Easter, Summer and Winter holidays. For more information and check eligibility please email community@mmat.co.uk.