Foundation Confirm 2026 Summer School Holiday Programme!

York RLFC Foundation is delighted to launch our Summer 2026 School Holiday Programme, with more than 50 free sessions taking place across York and North Yorkshire during the seven-week summer break!

For many families, the long summer holidays can bring the challenge of keeping children entertained, active and engaged. With schools closed for seven weeks, finding affordable opportunities that help children stay physically active, socially connected and positively occupied is more important than ever. York RLFC Foundation's holiday programme is designed to do exactly that.

The programme provides children and young people with access to a wide range of free activities that encourage healthier lifestyles, improve wellbeing, develop confidence and create lasting memories throughout the summer holidays. By giving children opportunities to stay active, make new friends and enjoy positive experiences, the programme benefits not only their physical fitness but also their overall mental health and wellbeing.

Building on the success of previous years, the Foundation will deliver more than 50 sessions across over a dozen Wards, with the programme expected to engage more than 1,200 children from across York and North Yorkshire. Sessions will include the Foundation's popular free inflatable and turn-up-and-play activities, multi-sport sessions, and disability specific sessions, providing something for children of all abilities and interests.

Whether your child wants to try a new sport, burn off some energy, make new friends or simply enjoy an active day out, York RLFC Foundation's Summer 2026 Holiday Programme has something for everyone with more sessions being added to this list in the coming weeks.

The Summer Holiday Programme is delivered thanks to the continued support of our valued partners, including City of York Council, FEAST and local Ward Committees. Thanks to the generous support of Simon Baynes Wholesale, refreshments including fruit, healthy snacks and drinks will be available for all attendees throughout the summer.

All sessions included within the programme are free to attend thanks to funding received through the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme and other local funding streams. While many activities operate on an open-access basis, eligible families are encouraged to book in advance to secure both a place and food provision where available.

Adam Prentis York RLFC Foundation Delivery Manager, said “While the majority of our summer holiday offer is aimed at primary school-aged children, for the first time, York RLFC Foundation will also be part of the York Youth Festival, taking place at Rowntree Park on Wednesday 22 July targeted at young people aged 11+.

“There are other examples of how we are focusing on evolving our offer to reach others including visiting all Wards across York in our outreach work including delivering sessions at new venues.

"All our events are free to attend and promise to be a fun, welcoming and inclusive for young people throughout York.”

Children who are eligible for free school meals can reserve places on York RLFC Foundation HAF sessions through the YorOK Holiday Activities and Food booking system. Eligible families will receive a booking code through their child's school. Families who believe they are eligible but have not received a code should contact their school or use the contact details provided on the YorOK website.

By booking through the HAF system, families help us demonstrate the demand and value of these sessions, supporting future investment in holiday activities for local children and young people. Families wishing to receive a free pre-packed meal at a session are asked to book at least three working days in advance. Meals are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis and availability may be limited at some sessions.

Children and families who are not eligible for free school meals are still welcome to attend our events; however, priority for food provision will be given to eligible participants in line with HAF funding requirements.

In the event of adverse weather conditions, Foundation staff will still attend planned sessions and, where possible, adapt activities to ensure children can continue to enjoy a safe and engaging experience.

The full list of York RLFC Foundation's Summer 2026 School Holiday Programme sessions can be found by clicking HERE!

For more information, please email info@yorkrlfc.com or call 01904 670880 and ask for the Foundation team.

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