We open at 8am and close at 5.30pm.
Although children are required to bring their own lunch, Buddies provides snacks throughout the day. We also have a chilled water dispenser which we encourage the children to use whenever they want.
During a normal day in holiday club, we like to start our day with a warm slice of toast and a cup of squash. After doing a register we decide as a group what we would like to do first.
We believe a key element to a happy play environment is to feel comfortable. Although we encourage children to take part in activities we understand that some children don’t like a particular type of activity and therefore they are NEVER forced to take part.
Throughout the morning there are many different activities set up and children are free to wander from one to the other. We have a bell system located on the external door which remains locked at all times. If anyone needs access to this part of the school they can only do so if Buddies staff are satisfied that they are of no risk to our childrens safety.
After lunch the activities continue. Cooking activities are alternated between the morning and afternoon sessions to try and give everyone an opportunity to take part (Staff as well as children!) We have found that the children have a firm favourite when offered a cooking activity…..The Fruit Kebab!
Over the last few years we have invited many people into our club to carry out activities with us. This helps us to provide variety for the children whist also minimising extra costs for parent/guardians. One company has returned over 4 times and provides hours of fun, laughter and entertainment.
Carls Castles provides us with giant inflatables including bouncy castles, a bungee run, giant slide, sumo suits and a bucking bronco! We are sure that we will be seeing them again this year, even if its just for the staff.
As well as inviting people into Buddies, we try to organise trips every holiday to various places including Longleat Safari Park, Jump Indoor Play centre, Climbing Centres and during the October half term we now organise a ghost hunt on Halloween internally, within the club itself.
All trips are optional and, if a child decides not to attend, qualified members of staff will be on site in Buddies to provide alternative childcare.