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Reptile charity runs free children's Christmas club

Katie WapleSouth of England
News imageThe Reptile Academy Young people at The Reptile Academy learning about group work and the buddy system when it comes to handling larger animals like Monte the Burmese python.The Reptile Academy
Young people at The Reptile Academy learn how to handle larger animals like Monte the Burmese python

A non-for-profit organisation dedicated to reptile and amphibian education is giving children the opportunity to attend free Christmas holiday clubs.

The Reptile Academy, in Wimborne, Dorset, offers a holiday activity and food (HAF) programme which is supported by local councils and the Department for Education.

The clubs are to support families and young people who face hardship during the holiday periods when schools are closed.

Reptile Academy managing director Dr Jake Weeks said the scheme was about providing support "in a way that feels fun, safe and genuinely memorable".

The programme is running for eight days between the 20 December and 4 January from 10:00 to 16:00 GMT.

The group is based near Wimborne, about 20 mins south of Salisbury hospital and 20 minutes north of the M27.

The team have 116 places for Dorset and 40 for Hampshire.

News imageThe Reptile Academy Each day includes a hot, hearty, healthy and nutritious lunch, from beef stew to lamb roast (all dietary options catered for). This Christmas we have a Turkey Christmas Roast every day!The Reptile Academy
Each child will receive a hot meal at the holiday club

Places are free for children aged eight to 16, attending a Dorset or Hampshire school, who are entitled to benefits-related free school meals.

Additional places are free for other vulnerable young people, such as those on the special educational needs (SEN) register.

The programme is also available to fee paying children and families, prices are on the website.

The six-hour days include educational animal activities, physical exercise, social and teambuilding skills, as well as a hot Christmas roast.

News imageThe Reptile Academy Dr. Jake Weeks showcasing the educational offerings at a local schoolThe Reptile Academy
Dr Jake Weeks said he was "really proud" of his team of volunteers

Dr Weeks said the holidays could be a "tough time" for some children, who "miss out on structured activities and sometimes even their only hot meal".

"At Christmas, for some families, that hardship is amplified," he said.

"We're here to help with a hearty hot lunch and a day packed with activities. Santa will also visit with a small gift for each child.

"As well as the activities and food, we're also signposting families to local support across Dorset and Hampshire, from food banks to mental wellbeing services and health clinics.

"We know needs don't stop in the holidays or when they leave our centre's gates."

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