The Magic of the TES Holiday Activities & Food Programme: A Talk of the Town in Derby

This April, the city of Derby witnessed something truly special—the TES House “Young Explorer HAF” programme. Designed for children aged 8 to 16, this four-day holiday scheme, held at Churchside Walk, Stockbrook Street, was more than just a place to keep children engaged over the Easter break. It became a vibrant hub of learning, fun, friendship, and transformation, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who participated.

Proudly supported by Derby City Council and Community Action, the TES Holiday Activities & Food Programme (HAF) gave local children an opportunity to explore enriching activities in a safe and nurturing environment. Whether children came through the HAF code or joined as non-eligible participants, the focus remained on inclusion, growth, and connection.

Mornings at the “Young Explorers HAF” were a whirlwind of creative exploration. In small, supportive groups, children delved into arts activities, where even those who initially felt less artistic surprised themselves with their newfound talents, guided by our patient instructors. The sounds of laughter often drifted from the kitchen during the cooking sessions, which organically transformed into engaging lessons about the fascinating science behind food across different cultures and races.

The computer coding segment proved to be a hotbed of unexpected collaboration. Witnessing older and younger participants naturally mentoring each other as they navigated the world of programming was truly heartwarming. The energy continued into the afternoons with football, where touching moments of encouragement and teamwork unfolded between children who shared a love for the round leather game. The cheers of encouragement echoed as children shared in the joy of sports, regardless of skill level.

Music brought everything together at the end of each day. Parents arriving for pickup were greeted with mini-performances that showcased the children’s growing confidence and musical talents. These daily wrap-ups weren’t just entertaining—they were proof of the emotional and creative breakthroughs taking place throughout the programme.

The “Young Explorers HAF” was more than just a series of activities and nutritious meals. It was a carefully curated experience designed to build confidence, strengthen community connections, and create lasting memories for these young explorers, a moment that will stay with the children long after the holiday ends. The talk of the town isn’t just about the fun they had, but the positive impact and the seeds of passion that were sown. This initiative truly highlights the power of community-focused holiday programmes in nurturing young minds and fostering a sense of belonging.

In conclusion, it should be noted that at TES House, we believe every child deserves the chance to explore their potential. Last Easter they did just that—and the entire Derby community is still talking about it. Wouldn’t you love to see more about this in the future?

Together, we can make our community great with wonderful initiatives like this. To stay informed about future programmes, kindly send an email to info@teshouse.org or follow us on social media platforms.