Free holiday activities

The Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) Programme is free to children and young people who live or go to school in Barking and Dagenham and are eligible for benefit-related free school meals, with paid places available for everyone.

This Easter get involved with our HAF Programme. We have a range of organisations providing fun, enriching, and healthy activities across Barking and Dagenham. Each activity will provide a healthy hot meal, keep children active, while making friends and having fun.

The Easter holiday programmes are open to all school-age children from 5-16 years old. 

Free spaces and fee-paying spaces are available.  Parents and carers throughout Barking & Dagenham may be eligible for tax free childcare.

Booking is essential on all activities so book early to avoid disappointment.

For any queries, please contact: hafprogramme@lbbd.gov.uk

Funded by the Department of Education

 

Barking & Dagenham Haf Annual Report 2023-2024 (PDF, 12.19 MB)

Free holiday activities

5 to 12 year olds

Artbash – Camp Echo @ Manor Longbridge School

ARTBASH Camp ECHO is a three-day art programme celebrating spring with activities like repeat patterns, reflection-based art, and vocal expression. 

Running from 9am to 1pm, it culminates on April 17th with a drop-in day for parents/carers to watch a performance. Attendance with children is required on this day. 

The camp includes a variety of art techniques, break dancing, and a warm lunch each day. Booking is essential. Request a booking form from paula@artbash.co.uk.

Age: 5 to 11

Location: Manor Longbridge School, 40 Scholars Way, RM8 2FL.

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 09:00 to 13:00

Booking information: paula@artbash.co.uk

 

Active Future - Carousel of Fun @ Goresbrook School

Active Future offers thrilling and enriching holiday activities for children, blending sports, arts, and cookery with engaging workshops and nutritious meals. Their inclusive sessions are designed to boost physical activity, spark creativity, and enhance well-being in a fun and supportive environment. Every child is guaranteed a rewarding holiday experience!

Age: 5 to 13

Location: Goresbrook, Cook Rd, Dagenham, RM9 6XW

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 10:00 to 14:00.

Booking information: bit.ly/3R0jfJA 

 

Ballerz Easter Camp @ Northbury School & Valence Primary School

Ballerz will host 9 days of multi-sports action during the Easter holidays at Valence Primary (Dagenham) and Northbury Primary (Barking). The Easter HAF programme runs from April 14th to 17th, 2025, at both venues. If your child qualifies for pupil premium and you wish to apply for funded places, email ballerz.uk@hotmail.com for a sign-up form. We look forward to your children enjoying various sports, enrichment activities, and our annual Easter egg hunt!

Age: 5 to 11

Location: Northbury Close, Barking IG11 8JA

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 08:30 to 16:15 

Booking information: ballerz.uk@hotmail.com 

 

Ballerz Easter Camp @  Valence Primary School

Ballerz will host 9 days of multi-sports action during the Easter holidays at Valence Primary (Dagenham) and Northbury Primary (Barking). The Easter HAF programme runs from April 14th to 17th, 2025, at both venues. If your child qualifies for pupil premium and you wish to apply for funded places, email ballerz.uk@hotmail.com for a sign-up form. We look forward to your children enjoying various sports, enrichment activities, and our annual Easter egg hunt!

Age: 5 to 11

Location: Valence primary school Bonham Rd, Dagenham RM8 3BB

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 08:30 to 16:15

Booking information: ballerz.uk@hotmail.com 

 

Centrestage Perform - Acting/Singing/Movement Easter Camp @ The Wilds Barking Riverside

We are excited to offer Easter Camp sessions in Barking and Dagenham, featuring fun and informative workshops in acting, singing, and movement. Our core values of confidence, creativity, and collaboration are integrated into every activity. Your child will learn valuable stage skills and techniques, enhancing their personal development. The camp provides a space for expression, where children can enjoy popular musical theatre songs, stage skills, and make great friends while working as a team.

All children will be provided with a healthy warm lunch and snacks every day. 

Age: 5 to 11

Location: The Wilds, Northgate Road, Barking. IG11 0AN

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 10:00 to 14:00

Email: centrestage.perform@gmail.com 

Booking information: https://www.centrestageperform.co.uk/

 

Easter Holiday Camp - The Football Fun Factory @ Jo Richardson Community School 

Join Football Fun Factory this Easter for a unique football experience! Kids will love our fun inflatable activities, including a giant goal, football dartboard, and an enormous inflatable pitch for epic matches. Each day also features traditional football activities and plenty of match time. Open to boys and girls of all abilities and experience levels.

Age: 5 to 12

Location: The Jo Richardson Community School, Gale Street RM9 4UN.

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 09:00 to 15:30

Booking information: markroberts@thefootballfunfactory.co.uk

Contact Number: 07814093169

 

Everyone Active @ Becontree Heath Leisure Centre

We're thrilled to host another HAF programme for young people aged 8-15! Your child will enjoy a diverse range of activities, including swimming lessons, multi-sports, fun splash sessions, arts & crafts, and interactive workshops on CPR and First Aid. Lunch is provided for all. We look forward to seeing you this Easter!

Age: Over 8’s

Location: Becontree Heath Leisure Centre, Althorne Way, Dagenham, RM107FH

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 09:00 to 15:00

Booking information: https://forms.office.com/e/Giuv4MkQhk

 

Food For The Soul @ The Vibe Youth Centre 

The 'Food for the Soul' arts programme offers 4 afternoons of music, dance, and creative writing for 5–10-year-olds in the borough. 

Children will enjoy delicious vegan food from Soul and Sound while creating, exploring, and connecting with culture.

The workshops, provided by the Community Music Service, Barking and Dagenham Youth Dance, and Write Back, will explore the theme of hope, offering a unique experience for young participants.

Age: 5 to 10

Location: The Vibe Youth Centre, Becontree Ave, Dagenham RM8 2UT

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 12:00 to 16:00 

Booking information: Elizabeth.kitto@lbbd.gov.uk

 

Future Youth Zone Easter Camp @ Future Youth Zone

Future Youth Zone’s Holiday Club for Junior Members (ages 8-12) offers a healthy breakfast and lunch, plus a fun programme of activities from 9am-3pm during school holidays. Kids will enjoy sports, arts, music, media, drama, cooking, life skills, games, and chill time. This Easter, there’s also an exciting trip planned. Lunch menus vary daily, featuring hot meals, sandwiches, and a healthy salad bar. All food is halal, providing the energy needed for a busy day. Free HAF places are available for children receiving benefits-related free school meals. Paid places are £14/day or £40 for the week (Mon-Thurs). Spaces are limited and must be booked in advance. If your child has additional needs, please inform Future Youth Zone in advance.

Book HAF free places at Reception or call 02039416722. 

Paid places can be booked at https://www.futureyouthzone.org/book-a-session.

Age: 5 to 12

Location: Future Youth Zone, 201-225 Porters Avenue, Dagenham, Essex, RM9 5YX

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 09:00 to 15:30

Booking information: enquiries@futureyouthzone.org

Contact phone: 02039416722

 

HAF Easter School with Dance Network Association @ Dagenham Park School Leisure Centre

Calling all parents of young dancers aged 5-12 (eligible for benefits-related free school meals)! Join the Dance Network Association (DNA) for an unforgettable 4-day Easter Dance Programme. Designed for all levels, this programme blends dance styles, creativity, nutrition, and well-being. Each day includes a healthy lunch and refreshments provided by Barking & Dagenham Trading Partnership (BDTP).

What to Expect:

  • Dance Workshops: Learn new moves, explore different genres, and refine skills with professional dance artists.
  • Create and Perform: Work on choreographic projects and showcase your hard work in a performance for family and friends.
  • Well-being, Nutrition, and Creativity: Enjoy activities focused on well-being, nutrition, and crafts.

Why Join DNA's Easter Programme?

  • Develop dance skills
  • Learn something new
  • Be creative
  • Make new friends
  • Boost confidence
  • Have fun!

How to Register: Don't miss this fantastic opportunity! If your child is eligible for a free HAF programme space, register via our website with the required evidence. After registration, our team will contact you to confirm your child's place.

Age: 5 to 12

Location: Dagenham Park School Leisure Centre, School Road RM10 9QH 

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 09:15 to 15:15

Booking information: https://www.dancenetworkassociation.org.uk/book-easter-dance-club

 

Inspire Minds Through Sports @ St Peter’s RC Primary School.

Inspire Minds Through Sports offers a high-quality holiday experience for children, keeping them active, healthy, and happy. We provide nutritious meals and snacks, ensuring safety and fun while fostering new friendships.

Our programme aims to help children achieve their best, grow, and believe in themselves. We offer a range of enrichment opportunities, including sports, arts and crafts, and engaging activities.

We also run healthy eating and nutrition workshops for children and their families, supporting them in discovering local community services. Our goal is for children to return to school feeling engaged and ready to learn.

 

Age: 5 to 12

Location: St Peter’s RC Primary School, RM9 6UU.

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 09:00 to 15:30

Booking information: Coming soon.

 

Kick Easter Camp @ William Ford C of E Junior School

Football Camp for Ages 5-12

Kick's football camp offers a fun and skill-building experience for young football fans. Led by an experienced coach, players will improve their game with drills focusing on speed and ball control. Team up with friends for passing and moving exercises and enjoy mini games that foster competition and teamwork. It's the perfect environment for young football stars to shine and have a blast.

Dance Camp for Ages 5-12

Get ready to dance and shine at Kick Dance Camp! This exciting programme includes street dance, stepping, and musical theatre workshops. Dancing is about teamwork, self-expression, and enjoying different cultures. Join us for a half-term full of fun, friends, and fantastic dance adventures!

Age: 5 to 12

Location: William Forde C of E Junior school, Ford Rd, Dagenham RM10 9JS

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 10:00 to 15:00

Booking information: https://forms.gle/xzV2hiR6egqcDdHq9

Contact Name: Randy Ashie

Contact phone: 0730087500

 

Learning Hive Easter Camp @ Gascoigne Primary School 

Make this Easter break unforgettable with Learning Hive's Holiday Camp at Gascoigne Primary School! From 9 am to 1 pm, children will enjoy a variety of workshops, including Easter-themed cooking, spy adventures, karate sessions, football matches, and arts & crafts. They'll stay energized with free nutritious lunches and healthy snacks. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity for a fun-filled Easter break. Enrol now – the team is excited to welcome them!

Age: 5 to 11

Location: Gascoigne Primary School, Gascoigne Rd, Barking IG11 7DR

Dates: 14 April to 17 April.

Delivery Times: 09:00 to 13:00

Booking Information: https://eequ.org/book/learning-hives-easter-camp-gascoigne-with-learning-hive-6891

Email:  info@learninghive.co.uk

Contact Number: 0207 112 8658

 

Malearn Easter Holiday Camp @ Thames View Junior School

Book your child for our Easter holiday club, where each day offers new and exciting activities. Children will enjoy:

  • Easter Egg Hunt with Mr Bunny, the mascot
  • Creating Easter baskets and bonnets
  • Arts and crafts
  • Tabletop games, table football, pool, and board games
  • Physical activities like hula hoop, skipping, football, boxing, trampoline, and zip line
  • Planting fruit or vegetable seeds
  • Healthy eating workshops with smoothie making, pancake cooking, and fruit tasting
  • Dog safety, mini first aid, and oral health workshops
  • Free play with various resources

A healthy hot lunch is served daily. We provide a positive environment to support children's social skills, behaviour, and emotional well-being. Child safety is our top priority.

Dates: 14 to 17 April 

Location: Thames View Junior School, Essex, IG11 0FJ

Delivery Times: 10:00 to 14:00.

Booking information: Coming soon.

Contact Number: 02080641145

Contact Email: info@malearn.co.uk

 

Malearn Easter Holiday Camp @ Thomas Arnold Primary School

Book your child for our Easter holiday club, where each day offers new and exciting activities. Children will enjoy:

  • Easter Egg Hunt with Mr Bunny, the mascot
  • Creating Easter baskets and bonnets
  • Arts and crafts
  • Tabletop games, table football, pool, and board games
  • Physical activities like hula hoop, skipping, football, boxing, trampoline, and zip line
  • Planting fruit or vegetable seeds
  • Healthy eating workshops with smoothie making, pancake cooking, and fruit tasting
  • Dog safety, mini first aid, and oral health workshops
  • Free play with various resources

A healthy hot lunch is served daily. We provide a positive environment to support children's social skills, behaviour, and emotional well-being. Child safety is our top priority.

Dates: 14 to 17 April 

Location: Thomas Arnold Primary School, RM9 6NH

Delivery Times: 10:00 to 14:00.

Booking information: info@malearn.co.uk

 

Motion4Kids’ Sports & Activity Camp @ Al Madina Mosque

Looking for something exciting this Easter break? Join Motion4Kids’ Easter Camp for a week of fun, action, and adventure! Kids will burn off energy, make new friends, and have an unforgettable time with activities like football, basketball, dance, crafts, and team games.

Why Join Us?

  • Loads of Activities: Football, basketball, dodgeball, dance, crafts – every day is different!
  • Building Confidence: Through teamwork, leadership, and encouragement, kids will grow in confidence.
  • More Than Just Sports: Fun challenges build resilience, focus, and a positive mindset.
  • A Place to Belong: It’s all about having fun, making friends, and feeling part of something special.
  • Fun & Friendship: No experience needed, just bring energy and a smile!

We can’t wait to welcome the kids for a week of fun, movement, and memories!

Age: 5 to 12

Location: Al Madina Mosque, 2 Victoria Road, Barking, Essex, IG11 8PY

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 10:00 to 14:00

Booking information: SportsPlayMotion Camps & Sessions - Booking by Bookwhen

 

Omega Sportz Easter Camp @ John Perry Primary School

At Omega Sportz, we create a safe space for children to be their best. This Easter, we offer a variety of activities including ball sports, bouncy castle, gymnastics, dance workshops, animal workshops, Easter egg hunts, multi-sports, games, arts and crafts, and an Easter celebration. Activities vary daily and are subject to change. If your child has additional needs, please contact us to discuss further.

Age: 5 to 12

Location: John Perry Primary School, Charles Road, Dagenham, Essex, RM10 8UR

Dates: 14 April to 17 April.

Delivery Times: 10:00 to 14:00 

Registration: https://omegasportzltd.kidsclubhq.co.uk/rdr?u=book&id=13549&t=2025-04-14

Mobile: 07444592073 

Email: info@omegasportz.com

 

Pullums Dance Academy - Performing Arts Programme.

This Easter, Pullums Dance Academy will host a Performing Arts Programme featuring dance classes in Musical Theatre, Drama, and Street Dance, along with acrobatics and singing sessions. By the end of the programme, attendees will have learned dance routines, songs, and basic acrobatic skills.

Pullums will also educate children and families on the importance of nutrition, teaching the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, staying active, and affordable healthy eating. Each child will receive a hot meal daily.

Most importantly, Pullums aims to ensure all participants have fun while learning new skills and making new friends.

Age: 5 to 11

Location: George Carey Church of England Primary School Rivergate Centre, Minter Rd, Barking IG11 0FJ

Dates: 14 April to 17 April.

Delivery Times: 09:00 to 16:00 

Booking Information: Register with Pullums Dance Academy | membermeister

 

Premier Education Easter Camp @ Marsh Green Primary School

This Easter, Premier Education offers an exciting schedule including Football, Dodgeball, Dance, Cheer, Nerf Wars, Funtrition, Cricket, Volleyball, Fencing, Archery, and more. Alongside sports, there are Arts and Crafts like Painting, Clay Modelling, and Colouring. Each child receives a healthy meal at lunchtime and snacks during breaks. Water refill is available at the camp. Premier Education’s Holiday Camps help kids get active, try new activities, and create unforgettable experiences.

Age: 5 to 11

Location: Marsh Green Primary School, RM10 9NJ

Dates: 14 April to 17 April.

Delivery Times: 09:00 to 15:00 

Booking Information: https://forms.gle/JeQG9hxjPj1ng2Sb7

 

Premier Education Easter Camp @ Rose Lane Primary School 

This Easter, Premier Education offers an exciting schedule including Football, Dodgeball, Dance, Cheer, Nerf Wars, Funtrition, Cricket, Volleyball, Fencing, Archery, and more. Alongside sports, there are Arts and Crafts like Painting, Clay Modelling, and Colouring. Each child receives a healthy meal at lunchtime and snacks during breaks. Water refill is available at the camp. Premier Education’s Holiday Camps help kids get active, try new activities, and create unforgettable experiences.

Age: 5 to 11

Location: Rose Lane Primary School, RM6 5NR

Dates: 14 April to 17 April.

Delivery Times: 09:00 to 15:00 

Booking Information: https://forms.gle/JeQG9hxjPj1ng2Sb7

 

Premier Education Easter Camp @ Roding Primary School (Cannington Road Site)

This Easter, Premier Education offers an exciting schedule including Football, Dodgeball, Dance, Cheer, Nerf Wars, Funtrition, Cricket, Volleyball, Fencing, Archery, and more. Alongside sports, there are Arts and Crafts like Painting, Clay Modelling, and Colouring. Each child receives a healthy meal at lunchtime and snacks during breaks. Water refill is available at the camp. Premier Education’s Holiday Camps help kids get active, try new activities, and create unforgettable experiences.

Age: 5 to 11

Location: Roding Primary School, RM9 4BL

Dates: 14 April to 17 April.

Delivery Times: 09:00 to 15:00 

Booking Information: https://forms.gle/JeQG9hxjPj1ng2Sb7

 

Premier Education Easter Camp @ Hunters Hall 

This Easter, Premier Education offers an exciting schedule including Football, Dodgeball, Dance, Cheer, Nerf Wars, Funtrition, Cricket, Volleyball, Fencing, Archery, and more. Alongside sports, there are Arts and Crafts like Painting, Clay Modelling, and Colouring. Each child receives a healthy meal at lunchtime and snacks during breaks. Water refill is available at the camp. Premier Education’s Holiday Camps help kids get active, try new activities, and create unforgettable experiences.

Age: 5 to 11

Location: Premier Education, RM9 4BL

Dates: 14 April to 17 April.

Delivery Times: 09:00 to 15:00 

Booking Information: https://forms.gle/JeQG9hxjPj1ng2Sb7

 

Premier Education Easter Camp @ Manor Junior School 

This Easter, Premier Education offers an exciting schedule including Football, Dodgeball, Dance, Cheer, Nerf Wars, Funtrition, Cricket, Volleyball, Fencing, Archery, and more. Alongside sports, there are Arts and Crafts like Painting, Clay Modelling, and Colouring. Each child receives a healthy meal at lunchtime and snacks during breaks. Water refill is available at the camp. Premier Education’s Holiday Camps help kids get active, try new activities, and create unforgettable experiences.

Age: 5 to 11

Location: Manor Junior School, IG11 9AG

Dates: 14 April to 17 April.

Delivery Times: 09:00 to 15:00 

Booking Information: https://forms.gle/JeQG9hxjPj1ng2Sb7

 

SEND Easter HAF camp @ DABD Pembrooke Gardens 

The Disablement Association of Barking & Dagenham (DABD) is excited to announce our HAF programme for the Easter school holidays. We are offering 4 days of FREE activities for special educational needs & disabled (SEND) children and young people who attend school/further education or live within the borough and are eligible for benefit-related free school meals.

Our events are tailored to the needs of SEND children and young people, featuring fun and educational sessions like healthy eating demonstrations and specially designed exercises. Activities include painting, soft play, sensory play, water play, sand play, arts and crafts, drawing/colouring, music, dancing, playdough, Lego, and adapted sports like football and yoga.

Our SEND-themed service also includes access to our bespoke outdoor/all-weather play and exercise area, featuring static exercise machines, and a fully accessible herb, fruit, and vegetable patch to support our healthy eating sessions

Age: 5 to 16

Location: Pembroke Gardens, Dagenham RM10 7YP

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 14:00 to 18:00

To book onto our service please contact DABD at send@dabd.org.uk

 

The Ultimate Sports Activity & Games Camp @ Ripple Primary School

During the camp, children will participate in a variety of sports, including football, dodgeball, cricket, athletics, basketball, handball, netball, tennis, and more. Additionally, workshops and enrichment activities will be provided to help children learn new skills, make new friends, and solve problems while fostering their imagination and creative abilities. At the end of the week, each child will receive a reward for their effort and participation.

Age: 5 to 12

Location: Ripple Primary School, 225 Ripple Road, Barking, IG11 7FP

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 9 to 14:00

Booking information: https://bookwhen.com/uvsports

Contact Name: Sean Bush

Contact Number: 07960 232873

Contact Email: info@ultimatevisionsports.co.uk

 

The Ultimate Sports Activity & Games Camp @ William Bellamy Primary School

During the camp, children will participate in a variety of sports, including football, dodgeball, cricket, athletics, basketball, handball, netball, tennis, and more. Additionally, workshops and enrichment activities will be provided to help children learn new skills, make new friends, and solve problems while fostering their imagination and creative abilities. At the end of the week, each child will receive a reward for their effort and participation.

Age: 5 to 12

Location: William Bellamy, Primary School, Dagenham RM10 7HX

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 9 to 14:00

Booking information: https://bookwhen.com/uvsports

Contact Name: Sean Bush

Contact Number: 07960 232873

Contact Email: info@ultimatevisionsports.co.uk

 

 

12 to 16 year olds

Dance & Screen Easter Camp @ The Galleon Arts Centre

Join Cater Productions & Co to explore the dynamic exchange between dance and screen, from TikTok trends to iconic films like Step Up. Learn from professional dance and videography artists as we create our own dance for the screen.

Age: 11 to 16 (KS3)

Location: Galleon Community Centre, Boundary Rd, IG11 7JR

Dates: 14 April to 17 April.

Delivery Times: 11:30 to 16:00 

Contact Name: Sharlene Carter 

Contact Number: 07895 656759

Contact Email: carterprodco@gmail.com

Booking link: Carter Productions Spring 2025 HAF Creative Camp

 

SEND Easter HAF camp @ DABD Pembrooke Gardens 

The Disablement Association of Barking & Dagenham (DABD) is excited to announce our HAF programme for the Easter school holidays. We are offering 4 days of FREE activities for special educational needs & disabled (SEND) children and young people who attend school/further education or live within the borough and are eligible for benefit-related free school meals.

Our events are tailored to the needs of SEND children and young people, featuring fun and educational sessions like healthy eating demonstrations and specially designed exercises. Activities include painting, soft play, sensory play, water play, sand play, arts and crafts, drawing/colouring, music, dancing, play dough, Lego, and adapted sports like football and yoga.

Our SEND-themed service also includes access to our bespoke outdoor/all-weather play and exercise area, featuring static exercise machines, and a fully accessible herb, fruit, and vegetable patch to support our healthy eating sessions.

Age: 5 to 16

Location: Pembroke Gardens, Dagenham, RM10 7YP

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 14:00 to 18:00

To book onto our service please contact DABD at send@dabd.org.uk

 

TKO Boxing Club Easter HAF Camp @ Jim Peters Stadium

TKO Boxing Club Easter HAF Programme

Looking for an action-packed way to stay active this Easter? Join TKO Boxing Club’s Easter HAF Programme for 12–16-year-olds! Our non-contact boxing sessions focus on the fundamentals, from footwork to bag work, building confidence, fitness, and discipline in a fun and supportive environment. Each day also includes a mix of other sports and activities to keep things exciting. Plus, every session ends with a warm, nutritious lunch! Come train, have fun, and fuel up with us this Easter!

Age: 11 to 16

Location: Jim Peters Stadium, Lodge Avenue, Dagenham, London RM8 2JR

Dates: 14 to 17 April

Delivery Times: 10:00 to 14:00

Booking information: https://tally.so/r/3qk8R8