Play the half term away

Its Ofsted-registered holiday play schemes take place at a number of locations across the borough. They offer children aged between 5-12 years arts, crafts, cooking, games and drama, as well of lots of opportunities to make new friends and have fun in a safe environment.

The play schemes are open from 8.30am to 5.45pm and cost just £70 for the whole week or £16 per day (minimum two days). There are discounts for siblings.

The council is also running free drop-in play sessions at Acton Park Children’s Centre, Lammas Park Play Centre, Southall Park Children’s Centre, Dormers Wells Play Centre, Limetrees Children’s Centre, Islip Manor Children’s Centre and Northolt Children’s Centre.

These are an opportunity for parents and carers to see what their local centre has to offer and access advice on employment, training, parenting and health services.

And youngsters aged 4-14 years can stay active over half term with crash courses in swimming as well as multi-sports courses at Ealing Council’s sports and leisure centres. All courses are chargeable with prices starting from as little as £3.20 per session.

Councillor Patricia Walker, cabinet member for Children and Young People said: “Ensuring children are happily occupied during the school holidays can be difficult, especially when parents have to juggle work and childcare. Ealing Council is here to help by offering affordable, quality care and fun activities in a safe and stimulating environment. There are still some places available for the half term holidays, but they are filling up quickly.” 

For more information on the council’s holiday play schemes or drop-in sessions, go to www.childrenscentres.org.uk or call 020 8825 8205.

To find out about half term events and courses in your local sports centre pick up a School’s Out October 2012 guide from your local sports centre or library or visit www.ealing.gov.uk/sports.