Dundee Active Schools is committed to providing high-quality holiday programmes that give children and young people the opportunity to stay active, have fun, develop new skills and build friendships throughout the school holidays.
Working in partnership with schools, local sports clubs, community organisations and national partners, we deliver a wide range of free and accessible activities designed to meet the needs and interests of children and young people across Dundee.
Our holiday programmes play an important role in supporting physical activity, wellbeing, social connection and positive experiences during periods when children are away from school.
Opportunities for Every Child
We aim to ensure that all children and young people have access to engaging activities during the holidays, regardless of their background, ability or previous experience of sport.
Our programmes offer a variety of opportunities, including:
- Multi-sport camps
- Sport-specific coaching sessions
- Physical activity and wellbeing programmes
- Leadership and volunteering opportunities
- Inclusive activities for children with additional support needs
- Community sports club taster sessions
- Outdoor and adventure-based activities
Whether a child is trying a sport for the first time or looking to develop existing skills, our programmes provide a welcoming environment where everyone can take part.
Removing Barriers to Participation
We recognise that school holidays can present challenges for some families.
Through targeted programmes and partnership working, Active Schools helps reduce barriers that can prevent children and young people from accessing sport and physical activity opportunities.
This includes:
- Providing free activities for all
- Delivering programmes in local communities
- Supporting access to opportunities for children from priority groups
- Working with partners to provide inclusive and accessible provision
- Working with Dundee Bairns to provide food and drink for lunch and snack
- Creating welcoming environments that encourage participation and enjoyment
Our goal is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience the benefits of being active during the school holidays.
Supporting Health and Wellbeing
Physical activity plays a vital role in supporting both physical and mental wellbeing.
Holiday programmes help children and young people:
- Stay physically active during school breaks
- Improve confidence and self-esteem
- Develop social skills and friendships
- Experience positive routines and structure
- Learn new skills and challenge themselves
- Improve overall health and wellbeing
The programmes provide safe, supportive environments where children can enjoy positive experiences while remaining active and connected to their peers.
Building Pathways into Community Sport
Holiday programmes often act as an important bridge between schools and community sports clubs.
By working closely with local clubs and organisations, we help children and young people discover new activities and identify opportunities to continue participating beyond the holiday period.
This supports:
- Increased participation in community sport
- Stronger links between schools and local clubs
- Sustainable participation pathways
- Long-term engagement in physical activity
Many children who attend our holiday programmes go on to join local clubs and continue their sporting journey throughout the year.
Developing Young Leaders and Volunteers
Our holiday programmes also create valuable opportunities for young people to gain leadership and volunteering experience.
Young leaders are supported to assist with the planning and delivery of activities, helping them develop important skills such as:
- Leadership
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Organisation
- Problem solving
- Confidence
These experiences can provide a pathway into coaching, volunteering, employment and further personal development opportunities.
Making a Positive Difference
Dundee Active Schools holiday programmes provide much more than sport and physical activity.
They create opportunities for children and young people to make friends, develop confidence, learn new skills and enjoy positive experiences during the school holidays.
By working with partners and communities, we help ensure that every child has the opportunity to be active, included and supported to reach their full potential.
To find out more about what is on offer, contact your Active Schools Co-ordinator by clicking here or by viewing our events page.