Things to do over the summer holidays

Week 1 (19 July - 27 July)

SEND-specific activities

Aiming High activities

Stoke-on-Trent Aiming High is a programme full of exciting, fun and safe activities for children with special educational needs and disabilities in Stoke-on-Trent, up until the age of 18. Each child can book between 2-4 sessions per month dependent on their needs. We will tell you how many sessions you can book. Please feel free to browse at and book at Stoke-on-Trent Aiming High · Eequ. The team can be contacted at Aiming.High@stoke.gov.uk We look forward to welcoming your child.

Aiming High - Action for Children Family Swim

80 Jubilee 2, Brunswick Street, Newcastle, Staffordshire, ST5 1HG
Saturday 19 July, 3:45pm - 4:45pm
Action for Children say, "Come and join us for fun, laughter and the chance to make new friends. We have lots of different things you can do, like soft play, outdoor activities, arts and crafts and much much more too. We have a skilled team of staff to support you and to make your time with us the best."
For more information and to book visit Action for Children Family Swim with Action for Children · Eequ

Aiming High - Yes Let's Build a Den (age 5-12)

New Vic Theatre, Etruria Road, Newcastle, ST5 0JG
Wednesday 23 July, 11am - 3pm
Activity: Create and decorate theatrical dens as performance spaces (castles, space stations, enchanted forests). Sensory elements: Use fabric, lights, textures, and soundscapes to build an immersive world. Your World Your Rules. Performance: Each group acts out a short scene from their den.
For full details and to book visit: Yes Let's! at the New Vic with New Vic Theatre · Eequ
Free through Aiming High

Aiming High - Our Space holiday family session

Our Space, The Brook Centre, Stanier Street, Newcastle, ST5 2SU
Wednesday 23 July, 1:30pm - 4pm
Our Space say, "Our Family Sessions are an opportunity for the whole family to spend time together in a safe and secure environment, including siblings who may not have additional needs. We have a lots of space for children to explore, with a large, secure outdoor play area and indoor space including a soft play area."
For full details and to book, visit Our Space Holiday Family Sessions with Our Space (Staffs) Ltd · Eequ
Free through Aiming High

Aiming High - Kindi Famili beach party with Ariel

The Indi Club at Sneyd Green, Ralph Drive, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 6HZ
Thursday 24 July, 10am - 12pm
Project Indi say, "Come along to our beach day at The Indi Club with a special visit from The Little Mermaid. There will be sand and water play, games, singing, and ice cream!"
For full details and to book, visit Kindi Famili with Project Indi · Eequ
Free through Aiming High

Aiming High - Our Space holiday family session for 0-5 year olds with SEND (and siblings)

Our Space, The Brook Centre, Stanier Street, Newcastle, ST5 2SU
Thursday 24 July, 10am - 12:30pm
Our Space say, "Our Family Sessions for 0 to 5 year olds are specifically for our youngest members and they are an opportunity for the whole family to spend time together in a safe and secure environment, including siblings who may not have additional needs. We have a lots of space for little ones to explore, with a large outdoor play area and indoor space including a soft play area."
For full details and to book, visit Our Space Holiday Family Sessions with Our Space (Staffs) Ltd · Eequ
Free through Aiming High

Aiming High - Kindi Club Junior (Year 1 to Year 6)

The Indi Club at Sneyd Green, Ralph Drive, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 6HZ
Thursday 24 July, 12:30pm - 2:30pm
Project Indi say, "An inclusive after-school club for young people with special educational needs or disabilities, providing a safe and fun environment where children can connect, grow, and thrive. Each session will offer exciting activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re into sports, creative arts, movie nights, fun-filled discos, or karaoke, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!"
For full details and to book, visit Kindi Club with Project Indi · Eequ
Free through Aiming High

Aiming High - Sportworks activity sessions (ages 7 - 14)

The Yard, Forest Road, Meir, ST3 7BY
Saturday 26 July, 10am - 12pm - for ages 12-14
Saturday 26 July, 1pm - 3pm - for ages 7-11
Sportsworks say, "Families can look forward to fun-filled, active sessions that are designed to be inclusive, relaxed and welcoming. From creative team games and movement activities to confidence-building challenges and opportunities to learn new skills, each session offers something different and exciting."
For full details and to book, visit Sportworks Aiming High Activity Sessions with Sportworks LTD · Eequ
Free through Aiming High

Aiming High - Our Space holiday family session

Our Space, The Brook Centre, Stanier Street, Newcastle, ST5 2SU
Wednesday 23 July, 1:30pm - 4pm
Our Space say, "Our Family Sessions are an opportunity for the whole family to spend time together in a safe and secure environment, including siblings who may not have additional needs. We have a large outdoor play area with plenty of space for people to explore and lots of exciting play equipment, including swings, a zip wire and specialist tricycles for people to ride around our grounds. Indoors we have a soft play area, the ground floor is wheelchair accessible and our ball pool can be accessed by a hoist (if required)."
For full details and to book, visit Our Space Family Sessions with Our Space (Staffs) Ltd · Eequ
Free through Aiming High

Aiming High - Gather the Community - Gather 4 Fun

2, Elsing Street, Stoke-on-Trent, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 2PR
Tuesday 22 July, 10am - 3pm
A fun blend of fitness, games, arts & crafts
For full details and to book, visit Gather the Community with Gather the Community · Eequ
Free through Aiming High

SEND-specific activities in the community

Accessible canoeing and kayaking with Green Door

Tunstall Park, Queen's Avenue, Tunstall, ST6 6EE
Wednesday 23 July, 11am - 3pm (sessions last 30 minutes)
Canoeing and kayaking sessions, supported by instructors. There are a range of unique adaptations for those with disabilities and supported needs.
Please see Accessible Canoeing and Kayaking gallery (green-door.org.uk) for more information
No need to book, just turn up and paddle!
Suitable for all ages apart from babies.
£6 per adult, £4 per child (16 and under). You will have 30 minutes on the water.

Peter Pan stay and play group (age 0-5)

Port Vale Family Hub (previously known as Bescura Hub), Hamil Road, Burslem, ST6 1AW - Monday, 21 July, 10am - 12pm
Hazel Trees, Duke Street, Fenton, ST4 3NR - Thursday, 24 July, 1pm - 3pm
Relaxed and friendly sessions for families with young children who require extra support.
For more information or to book, please call 01782 715 219 or email familysupport@thepeterpancentre.co.uk
£5

Indi Club Disco Night (age 16+)

Ralph Dr, Stoke-on-Trent ST1 6HZ
Thursday 24 July, 4:30pm - 8:30pm
An inclusive and welcoming weekly social night where you can connect, have fun, and experience new and exciting activities.
From ages 14-16+ but to access independently you need to be over 18 and independent with all personal care needs
For more information, contact bookings@projectindi.org.uk or tel 07709 716 293 or 01782 212 000
Book online here: Project Indi
£5 per person

Trampolining sessions (ages 3-18)

Wallace Centre, 63 Abbots Rd, Abbey Hulton, ST2 8DU
Thursday 24 July
- SEND group session: 1:30pm - 2:30pm
  - Coaches will be on the trampoline with your child and provide 1:1 support. This will be for 20 minutes of the session. 40 minutes is free time (unable to run around)
  - There will be a Sensory and chill out matted area
  - Cost £5.50 per child
  - For ages 4-18
Open to children and adults with learning and/or physical disabilities (hoist available)
To book visit Our schedule | NSTrampolining | Powered by ClassForKids

Dimensions Sensory Splash session

Dimensions Leisure Centre Scotia Road, Burslem, ST6 4ET
Friday 25 July, 7-8pm
Sunday 27 July, 9-10am
A SEND sensory family session will be in a fun-filled environment designed to stimulate and engage different senses.
£4.90 per person, carers free.
For more information and booking: • Call us at 01782 233500 • Email us at dimensions@stoke.gov.uk

Ability Counts Football coaching session (ages 5 - 15)

Stoke City Academy Dome, Denis Violet Avenue, ST4 4TN
Friday 25 July, 11am - 2pm
SCFC say, "PAN Disability Soccer School is football session for any participants with a registered disability. We pride ourselves on its inclusivity and will always look to accommodate you.
Suitable footwear to be worn (Moulded boots or Astro Turf trainers). No metal studs to be worn. Shinpads, and packed lunch required."
For more information and to book a place, visit Book Summer Soccer Schools
£10 per child

Disability Youth Club (ages 12-18)

Port Vale Foundation, Tommy Cheadle’s, Entrance C, ST6 1AW
Friday 25 July, 5:00 – 6:30pm
A mix of activities including pool, FIFA, colouring, games, sport and much more.
Book at Book Disability Youth Club from Port Vale FC
You can find out more information by calling 01782 757066
For ages 12-18
Free

Indi Club day time activities (age 16+)

Ralph Dr, Stoke-on-Trent ST1 6HZ
Monday 21 July
- 9:30am - 12pm: Art workshop with Clare
- 1pm - 3:30pm: The Indi Fitness Club
Tuesday 22 July
- 9:30am - 12pm: The Indi Fitness Club with Marie
- 1pm - 3:30pm: Arts with Anna
Wednesday 23 July
- 9:30am - Multi-sports with Stoke City Community Trust
- 1pm - 3:30pm: The Indi Coir - singing session
Friday 24 July
- 9:30am - ETS Indi - Martial arts sessions with Pete
- 1pm - 3:30pm: Dance sessions with ABSOD
From ages 14-16+ but to access independently you need to be over 18 and independent with all personal care needs.
To find out more information, contact bookings@projectindi.org.uk or tel 07709 716 293 or 01782 212 000
To book visit: Project Indi
Cost: £11 for half day session, £20 for full day session, carers go free

Youth Pan Disability Football (ages 8-11)

Port Vale Foundation, Tommy Cheadle’s, Entrance C, ST6 1AW
Tuesday 22 July, 5pm – 6pm
Youth PAN disability football sessions aimed at young people aged between 8 and 11 years old, providing young people with the opportunity to enjoy and play football whilst developing their skills and confidence.
Book at Book Youth Pan Disability Football (ages 8-11)
You can find out more information by calling 01782 757066
For ages 8-11
Free

Super 1s inclusive cricket session (ages 10-25)

Newcastle and Hartshill Cricket Club, Stafford Avenue, Newcastle, ST5 3BZ
Saturday 26 July, 9:30am – 11am
Free inclusive cricket sessions for ages 10-25. All disabilities welcome.
For more information and to book email Steve s.lightfoot@staffordshirecricket.co.uk or call 07789 265 618
Free

Indi in the Community (age 16+) - Cook and Eat

Clayton Sports Centre, 1 Stafford Ave, Newcastle-under-Lyme, ST5 3BN
Tuesday 22 July, 1pm - 3pm
An inclusive weekly social group for adults with disabilities to connect, have fun and enhance their wellbeing. From art and music sessions to sports and nature walks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
From ages 14-16+ but to access independently you need to be over 18 and independent with all personal care needs
For more information, contact bookings@projectindi.org.uk or tel 01782 212 000
Book online here: Project Indi
£5 per person

Reptile SEN session

M.A.D. Reptiles, Unit 2 Dunning Street, Tunstall, ST6 5AP
Tuesday 22 July, 11am - 12pm and 2pm - 3pm
Relaxed atmosphere, hold the reptiles
For more information, please email madreptiles1978@yahoo.com
£2 per person

Other activities you may enjoy:

These activities are not SEND-specific but have been identified by the organisers as being SEND-inclusive. All information is provided by the organisers. Please do contact them to find out any further details that are important for your family.

Caudwell Children Colour Runner

Hanley Park, Cleveland Road, Hanley,
Saturday 19 July, 10:30am - 4pm, registration 9:15-10am
A fully accessible 5km course, perfect for those ready to take on a colour-filled challenge!
So, grab your trainers, sunglasses, and paint, and get ready for an explosion of colour! You must register in advance to be able to take part: Caudwell Children’s Colour Runner 2025 - Caudwell Children Please note that any registrations recieved on or after 13:30 on 14/07/2025 will need to collect their Colour Runner pack at registration on the day of the event. Please ensure you arrive in plenty of time to collect your pack.
Cost: adults £10 each, children £7.50 each

The Very Hungry Caterpillar with Family Hubs (0-3 years / 0-12 years)

Monday 21 July - 1:30pm - 3pm - Chell Heath Family Hub, Bishops Road, Chell Heath, ST6 6QW (0-3 years only)
Tuesday 22 July - 10am - 12pm - Family Hubs @ Hanley Market, Potteries Shopping Centre Basement, ST1 1PP (0-12 years)
Wednesday 23 July - 1pm - 3pm - Chell Heath Family Hub, Bishops Road, Chell Heath, ST6 6QW (0-12 years)
Thursday 24 July - 10 - 11:30am - Shelton Family Hub, College Road, Shelton, ST4 2DQ (0-3 years only)
Crafts, games, sensory play and fun activities
Quiet spaces will be available.
Free

Family Hub sensory rooms (all ages)

We have 3 FREE sensory rooms in our Family Hubs that will be open during the summer holidays. They are suitable for any age and can be therapeutic for people with a wide range of different needs.Please call to book an hour slot.
Chell Heath Family Hub, Bishops Road, Chell Heath, ST6 6QW - telephone 01782 232 977
Normacot Family Hub, Buccleuch Road, Normacot, ST3 4RF - telephone 01782 237 500
Shelton Family Hub, College Road, Shelton, ST4 2DQ - telephone 01782 237 100

Family Hub play spaces (ages 0 - 7)

We have 3 FREE play spaces in our Family Hubs that will be open during the summer holidays. ALL children must be accompanied by an adult.
Bentilee Family Hub, Dawlish Drive, Bentilee, ST2 0HW - open Monday to Friday - 9am - 5pm
Normacot Family Hub, Buccleuch Road, Normacot, ST3 4RF - open Monday to Friday - 9am - 4:30pm
Family Hubs @ Hanley Market, Potteries Shopping Centre Basement, ST1 1PP - open Monday to Friday - 9am - 4:45pm

Summer Project with Art Brasil and Restoke (ages 5-13)

Fenton Town Hall, Albert Square, ST4 3FA
Tuesday 22 July – Friday 25 July - This is a 4-day project and we ask participants to attend all sessions.
- Ages 5–9: Tues–Thurs, 10am–12pm
- Ages 10–13: Tues–Thurs, 1pm–3pm
- All ages: Friday, 10am–12.30pm, followed by a public sharing at 12.30pm (parents and carers welcome)
Get ready for a summer filled with rhythm, movement and creativity. Join Restoke and Art Brasil for four colourful days of carnival drumming, capoeira (a Brazilian art form combining movement, acrobatics, music and song), and dance – led by Mika and Rafael. Children will build skills, move together and help shape a joyful celebration in Albert Square.
Good to know: Restoke say:
- What we CAN offer:
- Activities can be adapted to include children and young people with disabilities
- Parents, carers or support workers are welcome to stay and support their child
- Experienced facilitators and artists who are trained in inclusive practices
- A friendly and supportive group environment
- Step-free access to the venue via a lift
- Accessible toilets available onsite
- Access to a quieter mezzanine area (availability depends on building use)
- Four ear defenders available to borrow during sessions
- Open to discussing individual needs in advance to help families decide if the activity is a good fit
- What we are NOT able to offer:
- One-to-one or individual support
- Personal care
- A guaranteed quiet space (as the venue is shared and sound levels are not within our control)
- Staff with specialist SEND training
For more information, contact Restoke info To book, visit Restoke event tickets from TicketSource.
Cost: Pay what you can (suggested £20 for the week) – Free for Fenton families / low incomes

YMCA One Big Stokie Day (all ages)

YMCA North Staffordshire, Harding Road, Hanley, ST1 3AE
Friday 25 July, 11am - 4pm
A free family fun day, for all ages. Activities, crafts and stalls. Food & refreshments will be available to purchase, along with a few fundraising stalls. All activities will be free. Free Quizzes.See exciting demonstrations in our new youth hub and even help create a piece of art for the future. Join in the campus-wide quizzes, have fun with our Stoke-on-Trent duck hunt, try to spot famous faces, and cheer on the amazing cyclists tackling a 100-mile challenge.
All ages
Free entry, stalls and food will require payment

YMCA Go! trip - Geocaching at Lud's Church (ages 10-16)

Pick up and drop off from various locations
Wednesday 23 July, 9:45am - 5pm Travel time: 4 hours. Activity time 11:30am until 3:30pm
YMCA say, "Ready for a real-life treasure hunt? Join us for an outdoor adventure in the magical Lud’s Church—a mossy, stone-filled gorge full of mystery!
We’ll teach you how to geocache using GPS or your phone, then head off to explore and search for hidden treasures in nature. Work as a team, solve clues, and learn cool facts along the way!Bring comfy shoes, a jacket, and your sense of adventure. Let’s go exploring! Please also bring a packed lunch
See YMCA GO! for full activity details
Transport pickups and drop offs are offered at multiple locations around the city, to create access for all young people
For more information or to discuss your requirements please contact Amy.murray@ymcans.org.uk and grace.odonovan@ymcan.org.uk To book a place please visit YMCA GO! -"
Ages 10+
£2 per child

Tots' Film Club

Mitchell Arts Centre, Broad Street, Hanley, ST1 4HG
Thursday 24 Jul, 10am: The Ugly Duckling and Me
MAC say: “Our Tots Films are ideal for your little ones; providing a relaxed environment for their first cinema experiences!”
Good to know: the venue is wheelchair-accessible with wheelchair-accessible toilet facilities.
For more information and to book a place see Mitchell Arts Centre or call 01782 409 307
A child ticket is £4 and one accompanying adult ticket is free. Additional adult tickets are £4.

Family Film Club

Mitchell Arts Centre, Broad Street, Hanley, ST1 4HG
Thursday 24 July, 12pm: Bad Guys
MAC say: “Whether you are introducing these films to your children for the first time or just look forward to enjoying them once again on the big screen this season we have chosen some of the most popular family films. No trailers or adverts. Film starts at 12 midday prompt. Film starts at advertised times so please arrive with plenty of time.This is a relaxed film screening. Due to high demand, please book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment!"
Good to know: the venue is wheelchair-accessible with wheelchair-accessible toilet facilities.
For more information and to book a place see Mitchell Arts Centre or call 01782 409 307
A child ticket is £4 and one accompanying adult ticket is free. Additional adult tickets are £4.

Make and Bake session - caterpillar biscuits and cactus hands

Mitchell Arts Centre, Broad Street, Hanley, ST1 4HG
Thursday 24 July, 11am
A free, self-led, drop-in session at the Spitfire Cafe bar that allows children to create their own items around a variety of themes.
No booking is required, but it's recommended to arrive early to get a reservation
More information from education@mitchellartscentre.co.uk and Mitchell Arts Centre
All ages welcome
FREE

Cute and cuddly animal experience

The Unconventional Menagerie, Market Street, Longton, ST3 1BE
Tuesday 22 July, 1pm - 2pm
Sessions must be prebooked
Animal based learning with a animals on approach.
Good to know:The Unconventional Menagerie say, "This is all focused around animals so completely inclusive, our staff are all SEN trained and experienced."
For more informaion and to book a place, please call 01782 593 819,
All ages
£5 per child

Get Slimetastic - Music & Science Summer Club (ages 4-12)

The Brampton Museum, Newcastle, ST5 0QP
Tuesday 22 July, 1-3pm
Friday 1 August, 1-3pm
Tuesday 26 August, 1-3pm
Tutorage say, "Our sessions are designed to be inclusive with small group sizes and high staff ratios, we have experience working with a range of students and can accommodate students with EHCPs. The Brampton is also accessible. However, if your child needs 1:1 support please contact us to discuss availability as we have limited space and staffing."
"This session is a firm favourite. We make lot's of slime and learn all about how each of the different chemical change the properties of the slime. Everyone gets to go home with a pot of their own slime design.
Also New for this year - edible Slime! Our musical activities have a slimer link and include a ghostbusting tune."
Good to know: the venue is wheelchair-accessible with wheelchair accessible toilet facilities.
To book, visit Tutorage CIC event tickets from TicketSource.
Cost: pay what you can afford

SPACE sessions

The SPACE scheme are running fun activities for 8-17 year olds during the school summer holiday across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
The contact details of the session providers are available in the session details, please contact them with any specific questions.
Many varied activities including sports, creative, fun days, days out, outdoor and learning.
Activities can be viewed and booked at https://staffordshirespace.uk/
Ages: 8-17
Cost: varies - some activities are free, some are payable

Family Hub sensory rooms (all ages)

We have 3 FREE sensory rooms in our Family Hubs that will be open during the summer holidays. They are suitable for any age and can be therapeutic for people with a wide range of different needs.Please call to book an hour slot.
Chell Heath Family Hub, Bishops Road, Chell Heath, ST6 6QW - telephone 01782 232 977
Normacot Family Hub, Buccleuch Road, Normacot, ST3 4RF - telephone 01782 237 500
Shelton Family Hub, College Road, Shelton, ST4 2DQ - telephone 01782 237 100

Family Hub play spaces (ages 0 - 8)

We have 3 FREE play spaces in our Family Hubs that will be open during the summer holidays. ALL children must be accompanied by an adult.
Bentilee Family Hub, Dawlish Drive, Bentilee, ST2 0HW - open Monday to Friday - 9am - 5pm
Normacot Family Hub, Buccleuch Road, Normacot, ST3 4RF - open Monday to Friday - 9am - 4:30pm
Family Hubs @ Hanley Market, Potteries Shopping Centre Basement, ST1 1PP - open Monday to Friday - 9am - 4:45pm

Big Cup community playgroup (ages 0-5)

Monday 21 July, 9:30-11:30am - Bentilee Family Hub, Dawlish Drive, Bentilee, ST2 0HW
Monday 21 July, 1:30-3pm - Meir Community Education Centre, Pickford Pl, Meir, Stoke-on-Trent ST3 7DY
Tuesday 22 July, 1:30-3pm - Middleport Matters Community Hub, St Paul’s Church, Church Square, Dalehall. ST6 4BY
Inclusive playgroup for children age 0-5.
Good to know: venues are wheelchair-accessible with wheelchair-accessible toilet facilities. Playgroup leads have all completed SEND awareness and autism awareness training.
If you have any questions, or would like to discuss anything before your visit, you are very welcome to contact Kelly or Lisa on 01782 614 838
Free

Make a clay pasta-saurus at Potteries Museum and Art Gallery

• Bethesda St, Hanley, ST1 3DW
• Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 July
• Drop in activity 10:30-12:00 and 13:00-3:00
• Using pasta and clay create your very own dinosaur to take home. Let your imagination go wild and see what new species of dinosaur you can create!
• No need to book in advance. Call 01782 23 23 23 for more information or visit Events
• £3.50 per child. All children must be accompanied by an adult.