The Croydon summer holiday clubs offer activities such as dance, swimming, and go-karting that kids will love. Certain parents will be eligible for free credits for these clubs.
Programme Overview
The summer holidays are almost upon us, which for most families means six weeks of fun in the sunshine. However, it can be a difficult period for parents trying to find enough to keep their children occupied for the full six weeks. The cost of childcare can also be a considerable source of stress, with families facing a typical summer holiday club bill of £1,145 per child, according to PA. Thankfully for Croydon residents, there are plenty of holiday clubs on offer, some with spaces left for 2026 and many with free spaces available for eligible families.
HAF Programme Details
Thousands of children in Croydon are set to benefit from a packed schedule of free activities and healthy meals this summer, thanks to the return of the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme for 2026. Funded by the Department for Education, the scheme is open to children and young people aged 4 to 16 who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals. As well as keeping kids active and entertained, the programme is designed to encourage healthier lifestyles and teach children and families more about food and nutrition.
How to Access Free Places
Parents of eligible children will receive a unique voucher code by email or text, which they can use to browse and book spaces at holiday clubs near them. If your child receives benefits-related free school meals but you have not yet had a voucher, it is worth checking with their school that their details and your contact information are up to date.
Featured Clubs
One of the clubs taking part is Barracuda's holiday camp, based at Trinity School in Croydon. The venue boasts some seriously impressive facilities, including an indoor swimming pool and a sprawling 24 acres of playing fields, giving the camp the space to run more than 80 different activities. Whether your child is into swimming, dance or motorsport-inspired fun, there is something on offer, with specialist Skills Builder courses including Discovery Squad, Motor Mania, Swim School and Dance Fusion all available on site. The camp runs standard hours from 8.30am to 5.30pm, with the option to drop off from 8am and pick up as late as 6pm to help fit around working parents. Conveniently located close to the M25 and just three miles from Croydon train station, it is well placed for families across the area.
Also taking part is Allstars Activity Club, which hosts a wide mix of fun and educational workshops, child-friendly activities, day trips and academic support, all aimed at helping children grow, develop and build confidence within their community.
Further Information
You can view a map of all the Croydon holiday and after-school clubs participating in the scheme on the Croydon Council website. Neighbouring boroughs will also be running similar schemes, which you will be able to view on their respective council's websites.
