Wandsworth’s ambitious holiday programme praised in Government visit

During the visit, he learned all about how the HAF programme, known locally as Wandsworth Connected, which has been produced hand in hand with young people, parents, carers and parent champions, is supporting local children and families during the school holidays. 

Stephen Morgan, Minister for Early Education, said: “We’re determined to deliver on our Plan for Change to break down the barriers between background and success by tackling poverty – because a child’s future shouldn’t be shaped by their family’s bank balance. 

“It’s been fantastic to visit Wandsworth and see the brilliant work happening through their Holiday Activities and Food Programme. It’s not just about tackling holiday hunger – it’s about helping children stay active, make friends, and continue learning outside of term time, all in a safe and supportive environment. 

“Alongside our wider plans, including the new Child Poverty Taskforce and opening 750 breakfast clubs across the country, programmes like HAF are vital in helping parents juggle work while making sure their children are healthy, happy, and ready to thrive.” 

The visit, hosted during one of the programme’s Easter sessions, provided Stephen Morgan with the opportunity to hear directly from our trusted partner Crazy Camps, colleagues, and Wandsworth Council leaders about how HAF is being delivered on the ground. The session was run by Crazy Camps, one of the many local organisations delivering HAF programme across the borough. 

Funded by the Department for Education, HAF provides access to activities and a hot nutritious meal during the Easter, Summer, and Winter breaks. In Wandsworth, the programme includes both paid and supported places, offering flexibility for families and going beyond standard holiday childcare. Over the past year, more than 4,800 children across the borough benefitted from the programme, including one in four with SEND – whom we are proud to offer extra support for in the holidays.

Councillor Sheila Boswell, Chair of Wandsworth’s Children’s Committee, welcomed Stephen Morgan and said: “We’re incredibly proud of the way our HAF programme brings together schools, families, community organisations and local services. This programme is about building confidence, friendships, and healthy futures for our children in welcoming and safe spaces.” 

The HAF offer in Wandsworth is designed to align with wider support services through Family Hubs, the borough’s Access for All scheme, and the successful Magic Breakfast scheme – now reaching over 3,000 pupils each day. It’s part of a joined-up vision that helps families access everything from early years support to youth services, health checks, digital skills, and jobs training. 

Parents who’ve previously taken part in the programme have shared positive feedback about the difference it’s made. One parent said: “It’s nice to feel supported and for my child to access something that may not usually be available to us and to be around a nice mix of children and experience something new or different.” 

During the visit, Stephen Morgan spoke with children enjoying a wide range of fun and inclusive activities, while also learning how Wandsworth’s model could help inform national discussions around future funding and expansion of the HAF programme. 

Wandsworth’s HAF programme stands as a testament to what’s possible when councils, schools, providers, and families come together with a shared commitment: to give every child the best possible start in life. 

Find out more about our HAF programme.