Published on 25th July 2023

Children having fun on inflatables at summer of play at Pittville Park

Fun day – 10am to 2pm, Wednesday 2nd August at Pittville Park

This summer, a host of fun events and activities aimed at giving children and young people the space, time and freedom to play, returns to Cheltenham as part of No Child Left Behind’s Summer of Play 2023.

Over 20 local organisations have come together to offer provision to children throughout the Summer. Some of the highlights include animal experience days at Cheltenham Animal Shelter, football camps with Cheltenham Town FC and a variety of trips to Sandford Parks Lido, Laser Tag and Go Ape! 

The exciting range of experiences includes the popular holiday activities and food scheme (HAF) which is funded by the Department of Education for families eligible for benefits-related free school meals, and a grant funded activities programme for all children and young people (HAP), both commissioned by Gloucestershire County Council.

No Child Left Behind will be launching the Summer of Play 2023 on Wednesday 2 August at Pittville Park with an open access activity day from 10am to 2pm. Come along to try out a range of free activities such as sport, crafts, inflatables and more! This year’s event will also feature local advice services to offer support to families who need it most, covering everything from finances to healthy lifestyle advice.

Cllr Flo Clucas, cabinet member for communities and safety, said: “Fun, friends and freedom. For children that’s what summer holidays should be about and next Wednesday thanks to so many organisations’ help we’re able to create some positive memories - everything from stomp rockets to therapy dogs and multi-sports!

‘’Sometimes though the summer can be a challenging time for families - juggling childcare, activities, finances and more. This year we’re welcoming even more organisations who can help with those things. So, while the children play, take the opportunity to talk to people that can offer advice and support.’’

Some of the organisations involved in the Summer of Play are as follows; Aspire Foundation, Chi Wai Martial Arts, Cheltenham Animal Shelter, Springbank Community Group, SPTM Big Local, YMCA Family Space, Cheltenham Town FC Community Trust, Move More, Just Camps, Inspire to Aspire, Cheltenham Borough Homes, Sandford Parks Lido, Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, The Rock, West Cheltenham Partnership, Art Shape, Leisure at Cheltenham and Bloodhound Education Ltd.

For the full range of activities go to nclbcheltenham.org.uk/summer-of-play.

For media enquiries contact [email protected] 01242 264 231.