25-07-2025
Free summer scheme returns to schools across Wales
The Food and Fun programme returns for the school holidays, offering children free activities and nutritious meals throughout the summer break.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the scheme, which first began as a pilot in Cardiff before expanding across Wales.
Lynne Neagle, Wales' cabinet secretary for education, said: "The 'Food and Fun' School Holiday Enrichment Programme has helped tens of thousands of families over the last decade, providing free nutritious meals and enriching activities across the country.
"I am very proud to mark this special anniversary by visiting the very successful and popular Pantside Primary Food and Fun scheme."
The programme, now delivered in around 230 schools across all 22 Welsh local authorities, is fully funded by the Welsh Government and coordinated by the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA).
More than 14,000 places will be available each day during the holidays, with each scheme offering at least 12 days of support.
Since its launch, the scheme has provided more than 800,000 free places for children.
Each day includes a healthy breakfast and lunch, along with activities ranging from cookery and sports to music and den building.
Schools invite families to sign up during the summer term, and each scheme hosts a weekly family meal to bring communities together.
This year, the Welsh Government has allocated more than £5.8 million to the programme, including an additional £1 million in funding.
To celebrate the 10-year milestone, Ms Neagle visited Pantside Primary School to take part in the scheme.
During her visit, she joined a cooking session where children made fruit kebabs, played a game of cricket, and enjoyed a healthy lunch.
Ms Neagle said: "The summer holidays can be a challenging time for families and 'Food and Fun' highlights the important role that schools play in supporting children, their families and the local community.
"At the heart of this scheme is the dedicated local authority and education workforce, who have formed fantastic partnerships with a variety of organizations to deliver a diverse range of activities for young people to enjoy."
