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HOLIDAY CLUB

Holiday Club provides an annual three-week summer club especially designed for young people from the ages of eight to 17 who have varying degrees of special needs. 

 

We aim to open experiences to the young people through predominantly physical and creative activities, with the emphasis on having fun rather than an extension of school. We run a number of activities at our base and aim to go on trips every day to facilities within an hour’s coach ride. The timetable varies daily and there is access to many different experiences, such as music, drama and craft to encourage expression and creative ability, with swimming, sailing, rock climbing, ice skating and skiing for stimulating and adventurous experiences. This contributes to increased confidence whilst providing much fun.

 

Around 20 young people come each week and are all paired with one-to-one volunteer helpers, local secondary school students. The helper’s role is to support, encourage and act as a befriender so that each young person can achieve their potential and make the most of the opportunities we offer. There is a dedicated team of volunteer leaders to oversee the management and welfare of the young people. Although the team of leaders do not hold qualifications in special needs education, they bring with them a range of skills and valuable experience gained over many years of volunteering with Leighton Buzzard Mencap. We are on OFSTED’s Voluntary Register and meet all of their requirements.

 

The Holiday Club works on three levels. Firstly, of course, we are there for the young people, giving them their own club with the opportunity to participate in activities that they cannot usually access and have at least as many different experiences as their peers. Secondly, for the parents/carers, to give them a much-needed break knowing that their children are safe and having fun during the long summer holidays. Thirdly, for the students, who often return to volunteer year after year as they have gained so much from their participation in our Holiday Club.

If you would like to know more about our Holiday Club, get in touch.

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