CROSSCANONBY ST JOHN'S C OF E SCHOOL - 'A little school with a big heart.'

School Life

Cumbria's Holiday Activity and Food Programme (HAF)

14 July 2025

Image of Cumbria's Holiday Activity and Food Programme (HAF)

Holiday activities and food (HAF) programme

If your child has free school meals, you can find and book free children's activities and events in the school holidays.

You can search and book activities online, on their new booking system.

Search and book an activity

How to book

Booking HAF activities will now be easier, quicker and fairer for all families. On the new system you:

  • do not need a HAF code to book
  • can contact providers with any questions through direct messages
  • will see more detailed information about each activity
  • can access a more visual and user friendly platform
  • can request bookings for multiple children at the same time

Visit the EEQU website for a Quick guide on how to book a HAF session.

Contact the HAF team for any questions or assistance.

Email: haf@cumberland.gov.uk

When HAF runs

Eligible children can join the HAF programme for up to:

  • 4 days at spring
  • 16 days in the summer
  • 4 days at winter

The Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme is funded by the Department of Education.

Other children and families

Image

Children playing with lego

 

If you do not receive free school meals, you may be eligible if you are a:

  • cared for or care experienced child or young adult
  • young carers
  • child or young person on Resettlement Schemes or seeking asylum
  • home educated
  • child or young person who is classed as SEND or on a EHCP but not on free school meals, up to the age of 18

Some providers may offer paid for places or offer supplementary places through additional funding.

To discuss eligibility contact the HAF team.

Email: haf@cumberland.gov.uk

Advice about cost of living is available on the Cumberland Council website.

Types of activities

Clubs and activities are run by established community groups, creative arts, sports, leisure, youth organisations and schools.

There are lots of different activities available including:

  • a selection of sports
  • music
  • arts and crafts
  • learning
  • developing understanding about food and nutrition

We also have a range of providers who can offer activities for young people with additional needs.

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Child playing with a hoop

We want to give children the chance to have healthy, happy holidays so they can:

  • be more active
  • learn new skills
  • meet up with friends and make new ones
  • get a tasty nutritious meal
  • work together and stay safe