
Based on looking at the website, Holidayacademy.co.uk appears to be a legitimate provider of children’s holiday day-camps and forest school programmes in London. However, several aspects on their homepage, particularly the emphasis on music and drama activities, raise concerns from an ethical perspective, especially for those seeking options aligned with Islamic principles. While the service itself—providing childcare and activities—is permissible, some of the specific activities promoted may not be.
Overall Review Summary:
- Website Clarity: Clear descriptions of programmes (Day Camp, Forest School).
- Target Age Groups: Well-defined for children aged 3-12.
- Location: NW1, London, with good transport links mentioned.
- Operating Hours: Extended hours (8:30 am – 6:00 pm) offered.
- Ofsted Report: Direct link to their October 2022 Ofsted report provided, which is a significant trust indicator.
- Activities: Includes art, sport, yoga, mindfulness, and educational outings, but also prominently features music and drama, which are areas of concern from an Islamic standpoint.
- Pricing: “Click here to see the prices and times” link is available, but actual prices are not directly displayed on the homepage.
- Policies: COVID-19 policies linked; mentions of other policies available on request.
- Testimonials: Several positive testimonials from parents and staff.
- Ethical Consideration (Islamic Perspective): The inclusion of music and drama as core creative sessions could be problematic for families seeking to adhere strictly to Islamic guidelines regarding entertainment. While other activities like sports, art, and outdoor play are excellent, these specific offerings may lead one to seek alternatives.
The detailed explanation reveals Holidayacademy.co.uk presents a professional front, highlighting its Ofsted report and structured daily programmes. They clearly outline their two main offerings: a creative and sporty Day Camp and an outdoor Forest School. The flexible drop-off and pick-up times, accommodating working parents, are a definite plus. However, for a user rigorously applying Islamic ethical standards, the heavy promotion of music and drama as integral parts of their creative repertoire necessitates caution. While the website mentions a holistic approach and encourages imaginative play away from screens, the inclusion of these specific activities means that parents prioritising permissible forms of entertainment would need to scrutinise the programme details very carefully, or look for alternative providers that focus solely on ethically aligned activities.
Best Alternatives for Ethically Aligned Children’s Activities (UK-focused):
-
Muslim Youth Helpline Workshops
- Key Features: Focuses on character building, skills development, and positive youth engagement. Often includes workshops on Islamic arts, outdoor activities, and community service.
- Average Price: Varies significantly based on workshop type and duration; many are free or low-cost.
- Pros: Directly aligns with Islamic values, offers personal development, safe and supportive environment.
- Cons: Availability might be limited by region or specific timeframes; less frequent than commercial holiday camps.
-
Wilderness Foundation UK Programmes
- Key Features: Immersive outdoor experiences, nature education, survival skills, and environmental conservation. Emphasis on reconnecting with nature.
- Average Price: Varies widely, some programmes are funded, others require fees.
- Pros: Promotes physical activity, environmental stewardship, and disconnect from screen time. Highly ethical.
- Cons: May require travel to specific wilderness locations; programmes might be intensive.
-
National Trust Kids Activities (UK wide)
- Key Features: Wide range of outdoor and historical activities at various sites, including nature trails, scavenger hunts, building dens, and historical exploration.
- Average Price: Entry fees for sites; some activities are free with entry, others may have small additional costs.
- Pros: Focuses on exploration, history, and nature; widely available across the UK; encourages physical activity and learning.
- Cons: Not specifically designed for full-day childcare; parents usually need to be present.
-
The Scouts UK (Beavers, Cubs, Scouts)
- Key Features: Character development, outdoor adventures, leadership skills, community service, and badge earning. Structured programme for various age groups.
- Average Price: Annual membership fees, plus occasional costs for camps/trips.
- Pros: Excellent for long-term development, instills discipline and teamwork, strong emphasis on ethical values.
- Cons: Not a ‘holiday camp’ in the same sense; requires ongoing commitment; some local groups might include music activities, so parents need to check.
-
Forestry England Family Activities
- Key Features: Activities within national forests across England, including walking trails, cycling, den building, and nature exploration.
- Average Price: Often free for self-guided activities; some organised events may have a fee.
- Pros: Direct engagement with nature, promotes physical health, ethical outdoor fun.
- Cons: Similar to National Trust, less of a structured ‘camp’ environment; parents are generally required to supervise.
-
Build-It Workshops (e.g., local community centres or specialized providers)
- Key Features: Hands-on workshops focusing on construction, engineering, robotics, or DIY projects, often available through local community centres or science museums.
- Average Price: Varies greatly; can range from £10-£100+ depending on duration and materials.
- Pros: Develops problem-solving skills, creativity, and STEM interest; generally permissible activities.
- Cons: Availability might be sporadic; may not offer full-day care.
-
Local Sports Clubs (e.g., football, swimming, martial arts camps)
- Key Features: Intensive training in a specific sport, focusing on physical fitness, discipline, and teamwork. Many clubs offer holiday camps.
- Average Price: Varies based on sport, duration, and club; typically £50-£200+ per week.
- Pros: Excellent for physical health, skill development, and character building; generally permissible.
- Cons: Focuses on one area, less varied than a general camp; may not appeal to all children.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Holidayacademy.co.uk Review & First Look
When first landing on Holidayacademy.co.uk, the immediate impression is one of professionalism and clarity. The homepage is well-organised, presenting its core offerings—Day Camp and Forest School—right upfront. This directness is a positive sign for any parent looking for holiday childcare. The website clearly communicates its target demographic: children aged 3-12, with specific age breakdowns for different programmes. This attention to detail is crucial for parents to quickly assess suitability.
Navigating the Holidayacademy.co.uk Website
The site’s navigation is intuitive, with prominent “BOOK HERE” calls to action strategically placed. While the immediate booking link is helpful, the absence of direct pricing information on the main landing page means an extra click is required to understand the costs involved. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but transparency on pricing is often appreciated by users from the outset. The integration of “Sign Up for Discounts” suggests a focus on user engagement and potential loyalty, which is a smart move in a competitive market.
Initial Impressions of Service Offerings
The site clearly distinguishes between its two primary services: the “Day Camp” at Cavendish School, focusing on creative and sporty activities, and the “Outdoor Forest School” for those who prefer an all-day outdoor experience. The flexible hours (8:30 am – 6:00 pm) are a significant draw for working parents, contrasting with a core day of 10 am – 4 pm. This flexibility caters to diverse parental needs and schedules, a strong selling point. The mention of being “one of the only camps providing day-care from 8.30-6pm for children in London that include 3yr olds” highlights a unique selling proposition, indicating they fill a niche for younger children’s extended care.
Holidayacademy.co.uk Ethical Considerations (Islamic Lens)
From an Islamic perspective, the review of any service, especially one involving children’s education and upbringing, extends beyond mere operational efficiency to encompass its ethical alignment. While Holidayacademy.co.uk provides a valuable childcare service, certain aspects of its advertised activities, particularly music and drama, raise important considerations for Muslim families.
The Role of Music in Holiday Academy Programmes
The homepage explicitly lists “music” as one of the exciting sessions offered at the Day Camp. In Islam, there is a widespread scholarly opinion that instrumental music, beyond simple vocal expressions, is discouraged or forbidden due to its potential to distract from religious duties, promote heedlessness, and lead to various forms of moral laxity. While some scholars hold more lenient views, the conservative stance often advises avoiding environments where music is a central or prominent activity. For parents seeking to instil a strong sense of Islamic ethics in their children, consistent exposure to musical activities, even in a camp setting, could be a concern. The website mentions “fun and engaging music workshops,” which implies a structured engagement with music, potentially including instruments, rather than incidental exposure.
Drama and its Implications
Similarly, “drama” is highlighted as a key activity. While imaginative play and storytelling are generally encouraged in Islam for cognitive development and moral instruction, formal drama, especially that involving acting out characters or scenarios that might contradict Islamic principles (e.g., gender mixing in specific contexts, portrayal of inappropriate themes, or vanity), can be problematic. The emphasis on “children don’t know what drama actually is, but find at Holiday Academy that there is something” might imply a broader theatrical engagement. Muslim parents often prefer activities that explicitly foster Islamic identity, modesty, and respectful interaction, which formal drama may or may not consistently uphold depending on its content and execution.
Balancing Permissible and Problematic Activities
It’s important to note that Holidayacademy.co.uk also offers many permissible and beneficial activities, such as art, sport, yoga and mindfulness, Forest School activities, kayaking, and educational outings. These activities align well with Islamic values of physical health, creativity, appreciation of nature, and learning. The concern arises when these positive activities are bundled with others that may conflict with deeply held religious principles. For a Muslim parent, this means a careful weighing of the benefits of the permissible activities against the potential drawbacks of the impermissible ones. The website’s general approach seems secular, which is expected of a commercial childcare service in the UK, but it places the onus on the ethically conscious parent to discern suitability.
Transparency and Parental Choice
The website does not offer an option to opt-out of specific activities like music or drama, implying that children will participate in a rotating schedule of sessions. This lack of customisation can be a significant drawback for Muslim families. Ideally, for complete ethical peace of mind, a service would either exclusively offer permissible activities or provide clear choices for parents to select only those aligned with their values. Given the current presentation, it is a service that might be suitable depending on one’s personal interpretation and comfort level, but it requires thorough due diligence and potentially, direct communication with Holiday Academy to understand the specifics of each activity.
Holidayacademy.co.uk Pros & Cons
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of Holidayacademy.co.uk is essential for any parent considering their services, especially when factoring in ethical considerations.
Advantages of Holidayacademy.co.uk
- Ofsted Registered and Inspected: This is a major trust factor. The direct link to their latest Ofsted inspection report (October 2022) demonstrates transparency and compliance with UK childcare standards. Ofsted reports provide crucial insights into safeguarding, welfare, and the quality of provision, offering peace of mind.
- Flexible Hours: The extended operating hours from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm, alongside a core day of 10 am to 4 pm, are highly beneficial for working parents. This flexibility is a significant competitive advantage in the London childcare market.
- Age Inclusivity: Catering to children as young as 3 years old for extended hours is a unique selling point, as many camps have higher age minimums or shorter hours for preschoolers.
- Variety of Activities: Beyond the ethically questionable ones, the camp offers a diverse range of activities like sports, art, yoga, mindfulness, forest school, kayaking, and educational outings. This variety ensures children are engaged and exposed to different experiences.
- Outdoor Focus: The dedicated “Forest School” programme offers an excellent opportunity for children to connect with nature, which is beneficial for physical and mental well-being and generally permissible from an Islamic standpoint.
- Positive Testimonials: The website features several compelling testimonials from parents and staff, indicating positive experiences and satisfaction with the services.
- Clear Communication on Policies: Links to COVID-19 policies are readily available, and other policies are available on request, showing a commitment to health and safety protocols.
Disadvantages of Holidayacademy.co.uk
- Prominent Inclusion of Music and Drama: As discussed, the explicit promotion of “music” and “drama” as core activities is a significant drawback for Muslim families. These activities are generally considered impermissible or discouraged in Islamic teachings due to their potential negative influences. This immediately flags the service as potentially unsuitable for those adhering to strict Islamic guidelines.
- Lack of Activity Customisation: The website does not indicate any flexibility for children to opt-out of specific activities or for parents to choose programmes devoid of music and drama. This means a child attending Holiday Academy would likely be exposed to and participate in these activities.
- Pricing Not Immediately Visible: While a link is provided, the absence of direct pricing on the homepage requires an extra click, which can be a minor inconvenience for parents quickly comparing options.
- General Secular Approach: While expected for a mainstream UK service, the overall secular nature of the camp’s activities and ethos may not actively foster an Islamic identity or environment, which many Muslim parents seek in supplementary childcare.
- Limited Information on Staff Qualifications beyond Ofsted: While Ofsted implies certain standards, more detailed information on staff qualifications specific to each activity, beyond general competence, could be beneficial. The site mentions “highly qualified” staff but lacks specifics on the nature of these qualifications for creative sessions.
In summary, Holidayacademy.co.uk excels in operational aspects, flexibility, and adherence to regulatory standards. However, its prominent inclusion of activities like music and drama makes it less ideal for Muslim families seeking childcare options that strictly adhere to Islamic ethical guidelines. The benefits must be carefully weighed against these ethical concerns. Ipsamedical.co.uk Review
Holidayacademy.co.uk Alternatives
When Holidayacademy.co.uk’s offerings, particularly its emphasis on music and drama, don’t align with an individual’s ethical framework, especially from an Islamic perspective, seeking alternatives becomes crucial. The good news is that the UK offers a wealth of options that focus on permissible, beneficial, and developmental activities for children. These alternatives often lean into outdoor exploration, physical activity, creative expression without musical elements, and skill-building.
Nature-Focused Alternatives
- Local Forest Schools (Independent Operators): Beyond Holiday Academy’s own Forest School, numerous independent forest schools operate across the UK. Many focus purely on outdoor play, bushcraft, nature crafts, and environmental education, aligning perfectly with Islamic principles of appreciating Allah’s creation and physical activity. These often involve den building, fire safety (under supervision), plant identification, and tool use. Parents should look for providers specifically mentioning minimal or no musical content.
- Woodland Trust Kids Activities: While not a camp, the Woodland Trust offers resources and suggested activities for families to engage in nature exploration independently. This can inspire parents to create their own “forest school” experience or find local groups focused on similar ethical principles.
Sports & Physical Activity Alternatives
- UK Sport Holiday Camps (e.g., Football, Rugby, Athletics Clubs): Many local sports clubs and national organisations run dedicated holiday camps focused purely on physical development, teamwork, and sportsmanship. These camps are generally excellent for energy expenditure and skill acquisition, and are entirely permissible. Examples include Pro:Direct Academy for football, various rugby clubs, or even local council-run multi-sport camps.
- Martial Arts Holiday Camps (e.g., Taekwondo, Karate, Judo): These camps focus on discipline, self-defence, physical fitness, and respect. They are structured, highly beneficial for character building, and do not typically involve impermissible activities. Many dojos offer intensive holiday programmes.
Creative & Skill-Based Alternatives (Non-Musical)
- Art & Craft Workshops (Local Studios/Galleries): Numerous independent art studios and community centres offer holiday workshops purely focused on visual arts – painting, sculpture, pottery, drawing, and crafts. These foster creativity and fine motor skills without resorting to music or drama. Parents should check local listings for dedicated art camps.
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) Camps: These camps are gaining popularity and focus on hands-on experiments, coding, robotics, and problem-solving. They are highly educational, intellectually stimulating, and generally free from ethical concerns regarding entertainment. Providers like the Science Museum or independent STEM education companies often run such programmes.
- LEGO / Construction Camps: Specialised camps focused on building with LEGO, K’nex, or other construction kits encourage engineering thinking, creativity, and spatial awareness. These are excellent for quiet, focused play and problem-solving.
Holistic & Islamic-Focused Alternatives
- Islamic Weekend Schools & Summer Programmes: Many mosques and Islamic centres offer summer programmes or weekend schools that provide Islamic education, Quran memorisation, Arabic language, and often include sports, arts (halal forms), and outdoor activities that are curated to be in line with Islamic teachings. These offer a safe and ethically sound environment.
- Community Youth Groups: Local youth clubs, particularly those affiliated with community organisations or charities, often run diverse holiday programmes. Parents should inquire about their specific activity schedules to ensure they align with ethical preferences.
When choosing an alternative, it’s always advisable to:
- Directly inquire about the specific activities and curriculum.
- Ask about the ethos of the organisation.
- Read reviews and seek recommendations from other parents with similar ethical considerations.
- Visit the facility if possible, or attend an open day.
The key is to find providers that explicitly avoid or minimise activities deemed impermissible, while maximising engagement in beneficial and developmental pursuits for children.
How to Cancel Holidayacademy.co.uk Subscription
While Holidayacademy.co.uk primarily offers bookings for specific holiday periods rather than ongoing subscriptions, the process of cancelling a booked spot or trial would typically follow their terms and conditions. Given the nature of holiday camps, cancellation policies usually involve deadlines and potential fees.
Understanding Holidayacademy.co.uk’s Cancellation Policy
Based on standard practices for holiday camps, and the fact that Holidayacademy.co.uk links to “Terms and Conditions” on its website, this is where the detailed cancellation policy would reside. Generally, such policies outline:
- Cancellation Deadlines: How many days or weeks in advance a cancellation must be made to receive a full or partial refund.
- Refund Structure: Whether a full refund, partial refund, or credit is issued, often tiered based on the notice period given. For example, cancelling 30+ days out might yield a full refund, while 14-29 days might result in a 50% refund, and less than 14 days might lead to no refund.
- Administrative Fees: Some camps charge a non-refundable administrative fee for any cancellation.
- Medical Exemptions: Specific provisions for cancellations due to illness or unforeseen medical circumstances, often requiring a doctor’s note.
- Changes vs. Cancellations: The policy may differentiate between modifying dates (e.g., switching weeks) and outright cancellation.
Steps to Cancel a Booking
- Locate the Terms and Conditions: The first step is to carefully read Holidayacademy.co.uk’s “Terms and Conditions” document, linked at the footer of their website. This document is the definitive source for their cancellation procedures.
- Identify the Cancellation Method: The terms will specify how cancellations must be submitted. This is almost always in writing, typically via email. The website lists
[email protected]
as a contact email, which is likely the appropriate channel. - Provide Necessary Information: When sending a cancellation request, include all relevant booking details:
- Child’s full name
- Booking reference number
- Dates of the cancelled booking
- Parent’s name and contact information
- A clear statement of intent to cancel.
- Keep Records: Always retain a copy of the cancellation email sent and any confirmation received from Holiday Academy. This serves as proof of cancellation.
- Follow Up (If Necessary): If a confirmation is not received within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., 2-3 business days), follow up with another email or a phone call to ensure the cancellation has been processed.
Important Considerations for Cancellations
- No Free Trials: Given that Holiday Academy operates on a booking model for holiday periods, there isn’t typically a “free trial” in the software-as-a-service sense. Instead, it’s a direct booking for a paid service.
- Force Majeure: Review the terms for any clauses related to “force majeure” (unforeseeable circumstances like pandemics, natural disasters, etc.) which might affect cancellation and refund policies. The COVID-19 policy links on their homepage suggest they have considered such events.
- Changing Dates: If a full cancellation isn’t desired, but rather a change of dates, check if their policy allows for transferring bookings to different weeks or holidays, which might incur lower or no fees compared to a full cancellation.
Ultimately, cancelling a booking with Holidayacademy.co.uk requires adherence to their documented terms and conditions. Acting promptly and communicating clearly in writing are key to a smooth process.
Holidayacademy.co.uk Pricing
Understanding the pricing structure for Holidayacademy.co.uk requires navigating to a specific section of their website, as prices are not directly displayed on the homepage. This approach is common for services with variable pricing based on duration, specific programmes, or age groups.
Accessing Pricing Information
The homepage clearly states, “Click here to see the prices and times,” linking to a dedicated “Dates & Prices” page. This indicates that their pricing is transparently available, albeit one click away. On such a page, one would typically expect to find:
- Daily Rates: The cost for a single day of camp.
- Weekly Rates: Often discounted rates for booking a full week.
- Extended Hours Pricing: Any additional charges for the 8:30 am – 10:00 am early drop-off and 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm late pick-up sessions, if these are not included in the core day price.
- Programme Specific Pricing: Whether the Day Camp and Forest School have different price points.
- Age Group Variations: If prices vary for different age bands (e.g., 3-4s vs. 7-12s).
- Sibling Discounts: Potential discounts for enrolling multiple children from the same family.
- Early Bird Discounts: Offers for booking well in advance.
- Payment Schedule: Information on deposits, full payment due dates, and acceptable payment methods.
Typical Price Range for London Holiday Camps
While exact figures for Holidayacademy.co.uk are behind a click, holiday camps in London typically command a premium due to high operational costs and demand. Based on market research for similar services in London: Geekee.co.uk Review
- Daily rates for quality holiday camps in London can range from £50 to £90 per day.
- Weekly rates often fall between £250 to £400+ per week, sometimes offering a slight saving compared to booking individual days.
- Extended hours usually incur an additional fee, potentially £5-£15 per hour or a flat rate for the extended period.
These figures are estimates for comparable services and Holidayacademy.co.uk’s actual pricing may vary. It’s crucial for prospective parents to visit their “Dates & Prices” page for the most current and accurate information.
Value Proposition and Ethical Cost
When evaluating Holidayacademy.co.uk’s pricing, parents also need to consider the value proposition in light of their ethical considerations. If the camp’s activities, particularly music and drama, are a concern, then even a competitive price might not represent good value for a family seeking ethically aligned childcare. The “cost” here isn’t just monetary; it includes the potential compromise of deeply held beliefs. For families with strict ethical guidelines, even if the price is attractive, the overall value might be diminished if they feel they are exposing their children to activities they deem inappropriate. This necessitates a careful calculation beyond just the financial outlay.
Holidayacademy.co.uk vs. Alternatives: A Comparative Look
When evaluating Holidayacademy.co.uk against its alternatives, the comparison often boils down to a trade-off between convenience, variety, and ethical alignment. For many, Holidayacademy.co.uk offers a strong, professionally run service, but for those with specific ethical requirements, the alternatives become more compelling.
Holidayacademy.co.uk’s Strengths in Comparison
- Integrated Model: Holidayacademy.co.uk offers both a traditional Day Camp and a Forest School from a single provider, simplifying the booking process for parents who might want a mix of experiences.
- Established Reputation (Ofsted): Being Ofsted registered and having a publicly linked report provides a level of official assurance that independent or smaller, informal groups might not possess. This regulatory oversight is a significant advantage.
- Central London Location & Accessibility: The Cavendish School location in NW1, with excellent transport links, is highly convenient for London-based families. Many niche alternatives might be less centrally located or require more effort to access.
- Extended Hours: The 8:30 am – 6:00 pm operating window is more comprehensive than many smaller, specialist camps, which might offer shorter days.
Where Alternatives Shine (Ethical & Specialisation)
When compared to the alternatives discussed earlier, Holidayacademy.co.uk faces challenges for those with specific ethical or activity-focused preferences:
-
Ethical Alignment (Islamic):
- Versus Islamic Summer Programmes: Islamic summer programmes offered by mosques or dedicated organisations are explicitly designed to align with Islamic values. They avoid music and drama, focusing instead on Quran, Arabic, Islamic studies, and permissible recreational activities like sports and ethical crafts. This is a clear advantage for Muslim families.
- Versus Pure Nature Camps: Dedicated forest schools or wilderness programmes (e.g., Wilderness Foundation) offer an unadulterated outdoor experience, free from questionable entertainment. Holidayacademy.co.uk’s Forest School is good, but its Day Camp includes activities that may be problematic.
-
Specialisation & Depth:
- Versus Sports-Specific Camps: If a child is passionate about football, a dedicated football camp will offer more intensive coaching and skill development than Holidayacademy.co.uk’s general “sport” sessions. The same applies to martial arts or swimming camps.
- Versus STEM or Art-Focused Workshops: Specialist STEM or art workshops often provide deeper dives into specific subjects, with dedicated equipment and expert instructors, which may be more comprehensive than Holidayacademy.co.uk’s broader creative offerings.
-
Cost-Effectiveness (for specific needs):
- While Holidayacademy.co.uk’s pricing is competitive for a general London camp, if a family only values, for example, the outdoor component, a dedicated and potentially lower-cost local forest school might offer better value for money. Similarly, community-run sports clubs might be more affordable for pure athletic development.
The Decision Matrix
For parents, the choice between Holidayacademy.co.uk and an alternative often comes down to a personal “decision matrix”:
Feature | Holidayacademy.co.uk | Ethically Aligned/Specialised Alternatives |
---|---|---|
Convenience | High (central, extended hours, combined programmes) | Varies (might be decentralised, specific hours) |
Ofsted Status | Yes, prominently displayed | Varies (some registered, others less formal) |
Activity Variety | Broad (Art, Sport, Music, Drama, Outdoor) | Focused (e.g., pure sports, pure nature, pure STEM) |
Ethical Alignment | Mixed (problematic music/drama) | High (specifically designed to avoid impermissible elements) |
Specialisation | Generalist | High (deep dive into specific areas) |
Price | London market rate (mid-high) | Varies (can be lower for focused activities, or comparable) |
In conclusion, Holidayacademy.co.uk serves a broad market effectively. However, for those with specific ethical or specialisation requirements, the fragmented market of dedicated sports camps, forest schools, STEM workshops, and Islamic programmes often provides a more suitable and potentially more fulfilling experience, despite requiring more research to piece together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Holidayacademy.co.uk?
Holidayacademy.co.uk is a children’s holiday day-camp and forest school provider based in NW1, London, offering structured activities and childcare for children aged 3-12 during school holidays. Avocet-cleaning.co.uk Review
Is Holidayacademy.co.uk Ofsted registered?
Yes, Holidayacademy.co.uk is Ofsted registered, and their website provides a direct link to their latest inspection report from October 2022.
What age groups does Holidayacademy.co.uk cater to?
Holidayacademy.co.uk caters to children aged 3-12, divided into age groups such as 3-4s, 5-6s, and 7-12s for the Day Camp, and 3-5s, 5-7s, and 7-13s for the Forest School.
What are the operating hours for Holidayacademy.co.uk?
The core day for Holidayacademy.co.uk camps is 10 am to 4 pm, but extended hours are available from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm.
What types of programmes does Holidayacademy.co.uk offer?
Holidayacademy.co.uk offers two main programmes: a creative and sporty Day Camp at Cavendish School and an Outdoor Forest School programme conducted in a local park.
Does Holidayacademy.co.uk offer activities like music and drama?
Yes, the Holidayacademy.co.uk Day Camp explicitly lists music and drama as part of its creative sessions.
Are Holidayacademy.co.uk’s activities suitable for all ethical considerations?
While many activities like sports, art, and outdoor play are generally permissible, the inclusion of music and drama may not align with strict ethical guidelines, particularly for those adhering to Islamic principles regarding entertainment.
How do I find pricing information for Holidayacademy.co.uk?
Pricing information for Holidayacademy.co.uk is available on their “Dates & Prices” page, accessible via a link on their homepage.
Can I book a single day at Holidayacademy.co.uk, or only full weeks?
The website mentions a “core day of 10am-4pm” and has a link for “prices and times,” which suggests that single day bookings may be possible alongside weekly options, but exact flexibility needs to be confirmed on their pricing page.
What should my child bring to Holidayacademy.co.uk?
Children should bring warm clothes, comfortable wellies (especially for Forest School), a packed lunch (non-refrigerated), snacks, and a change of clothes; specific items are detailed on their website.
Does Holidayacademy.co.uk provide food or heat up packed lunches?
No, Holidayacademy.co.uk does not provide food, and due to health and safety reasons, they are unable to heat up packed lunches. They also have a strict no-nuts/seeds policy for packed lunches. Moneymechanix.co.uk Review
What is Holidayacademy.co.uk’s policy on allergies?
Holidayacademy.co.uk has a strict no-nuts/seeds policy to safeguard children with allergies and requires parents to inform them of any allergies or intolerances their child may have.
Does Holidayacademy.co.uk administer medicine?
Yes, Holidayacademy.co.uk can administer prescribed medicine, but requires a permission form to be filled out in advance, and the medicine must be prescribed by a UK doctor and in-date.
What is the pick-up policy at Holidayacademy.co.uk?
For safeguarding, parents must state the name of who will be picking up the child each morning on the attendance register, and any changes must be communicated via email or telephone.
Are there testimonials for Holidayacademy.co.uk?
Yes, the Holidayacademy.co.uk homepage features several positive testimonials from parents and staff, praising the camp’s activities and environment.
Where is Holidayacademy.co.uk located?
The Day Camp is located at Cavendish School in NW1, London, while the Forest School drop-offs and pick-ups are at a local park, detailed in the welcome email.
Can 3-year-olds attend Holidayacademy.co.uk for extended hours?
Yes, Holidayacademy.co.uk prides itself on being one of the only camps in London providing day-care from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm for children as young as 3 years old.
How do I contact Holidayacademy.co.uk for more information?
You can contact Holidayacademy.co.uk via email at [email protected]
, as listed on their website.
Does Holidayacademy.co.uk offer educational outings?
Yes, Holidayacademy.co.uk mentions “Educational Outings” as one of their activities, indicating that they plan trips for children.
What is Holidayacademy.co.uk’s approach to technology and screens?
Holidayacademy.co.uk states that its holistic approach encourages children to “stay active and off a screen,” promoting imaginative play and outdoor activities.
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