Ignite Sport engages 12,000 Oxfordshire families with free activities and food in five years

Twelve thousand families in Oxfordshire have taken advantage of a government backed initiative which unlocks free activity sessions and food for children during the holidays.  

The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme was launched in 2018 to ensure all children and young people have the opportunity to reach physical activity guidelines while developing key practical and social skills.  

It is delivered locally by Marston-based Ignite Sport, who provide free holiday clubs and food for schoolchildren aged 4-16 who are in receipt of free school meals.  

Since 2021, Ignite’s team of experienced and qualified sports coaches have delivered more than 22,000 sessions to children across Oxfordshire and engaged 12,000 families with the programme.  

Activities range from football to cricket, Olympic-themed sports days, art and girls only sessions plus science and cooking.  

Andy Francis, Holiday Camp Manager at Ignite Sport, said the initiative has been a huge success.  

“Summer holidays should represent some of the best and most memorable moments of a person’s life,” said Andy. 

“The sad reality is school holidays can be a challenging time for many families living locally due to increased costs - such as food and childcare - and reduced incomes. 

“We’re great believers that every young person can aspire to reach their full potential through the power of sport, physical activity and positive social interactions.  

“It’s why HAF has proven so popular since we delivered our first programmes in 2021, and we have been proud to work with Oxfordshire County Council as a local delivery partner for the past five years.” 

Sessions being rolled out this year include Ignite Sport’s cricket camps which start the team’s HAF delivery on Wednesday, July 23, and run the following day too.  

There are also Girls Only Women’s Euro camps, multisport, art smash, sparks, pre-season elite football and dance fusion sessions planned between now and the end of August. 

All delivery will take place at Oxford City FC on Marsh Lane in Marston.  

Andy added: “For any families yet to connect with our HAF holiday camps, this summer presents the perfect opportunity.  

“For parents of children in receipt of free school meals, we are your free childcare solution for this summer. We can guarantee fun, laughter and helping your child become the best version of themselves this summer through our sessions which cater for all abilities.” 

Ignite Sport’s 2025 summer HAF delivery begins on Wednesday, July 23, with sessions running on weekdays until Friday, August 22.  

Full details about each programme and to find out if your child is eligible for a free space can be found via www.ignitesportuk.com.