School holidays can pose something of a challenge for working parents. It is not always easy to source reliable, affordable childcare or manage work commitments when you have children at home.
Parental and Student Benefits of School Holiday Clubs
However, school holiday clubs provide an excellent solution. If your child attends one at their school, then of course they will already be familiar with the environment and others who attend. These sessions allow children to try new co-curricular activities and hobbies, minimise screentime, and stay active if the clubs incorporate an element of physical activity.
Equally, many grow in confidence and self-esteem while improving their social skills. The idea is to have a fantastic time outside the classroom and enjoy different experiences, some of which may not otherwise be available.
At the same time, the structured nature of holiday clubs makes it easier for the child to transition seamlessly into the more formal classroom environment once term starts up again, particularly during the long break.
Meanwhile, for mums and dads, holiday clubs are a cost-effective way of providing peace of mind that their little ones are safe, looked after and engaged, allowing parents to focus on work even when school is out.
Ultimately, school holiday clubs provide continuous learning and development during the school breaks and encourage curiosity, creativity, and personal growth outside of regular learning, while potentially also unlocking hidden talents.
St Joseph’s College: A School Holiday Club in Reading, Berkshire
At St Joseph’s College, Reading, we run holiday clubs for children aged between 3 and 13, with half or full-day sessions (8am to 6pm) available. Sessions are open for those who are pupils here as well as those who are not, although we do prioritise our students, and so recommend early booking.
Our holiday clubs are run and managed by our own dedicated teaching staff, supported by a team of experienced staff, ensuring high-quality care and engaging activities throughout the day.
We give children the chance to do a wide range of activities at our holiday clubs, from sports such as fencing and bubble football to kayaking, daily swimming, arts and crafts and more, plus regular external outings, for example, to the cinema. The price for attending a full day includes a hot lunch and snack, so your child only needs to bring their water bottle with them.
Our sessions include our pre-reception holiday club, held in our purpose-built centre, and led by our early years practitioners. Meanwhile, the holiday club for those aged 5 to 11 offers a number of exciting activities and is popular with parents and children alike.
Other options we offer include:
- Young Leaders Programme: A five-day course for those in Years 7 and 8, who learn how to organise and lead games and activities.
- Specialist camps: These run between 10am and 3pm, with care also available between 8am and 10am and 3pm and 6pm to provide a whole-day service. Sessions allow children to develop a particular skill or talent over a full week. These include drama for those aged between 5 and 11, and gymnastics for those aged 5 to 13. Finally, the Brickies Summer Camp is for Lego-loving 5 to 11-year-olds, whatever their ability. It is packed with varied themes and challenges.
Book St Joseph’s School Holiday Club
View our School Holiday Club page for details on the terms and conditions of our holiday club sessions, our behaviour management policy and for information on what to wear and bring, and more.
Book your child’s place at our Holiday Club now – open to Reception, Primary, and Secondary age children for Summer 2025.
