The results are in and it's a resounding thumbs up for East Dunbartonshire Council from families* who benefited from a packed schedule of summer holiday fun.
More than 600 children and young people took part in a huge range of activities and enjoyed a free hot lunch at venues across the area over the school summer holidays and gave an average 4.75 star review.
Feedback showed that the introduction of a hot meal at lunchtime was very popular with families, they felt the programmes were well organised, staff were friendly and approachable and the application process and communications were clear.
Young people said that they valued the opportunity to meet friends over the long summer holiday and enjoyed the activities on offer with arts and crafts, football, baking and games coming out tops.
There was something for everyone with programmes designed for all ages and abilities:
- For primary aged children there were Snack & Play sessions at six school hubs offering baking, dance, workshops, arts & crafts and sports.
- For secondary aged young people there were drop-in sessions with quizzes, away days, cooking, employability support and help with NEC/Young Scot card.
- This year saw a comprehensive offer for children and young people with additional support needs including games, outdoor play, baking and classes such as dance and drama in partnership with external organisations.
Councillor Linda Williamson, Convener of the Education Committee, said, "I am pleased that we were able to offer such an array of activities and were able to reach so many families who may otherwise have struggled over the long summer holiday. I'd like to thank our team of dedicated staff who worked hard to design and deliver a summer of fun to hundreds of youngsters.
"We always listen to what families tell us as what we provide must meet their aspirations , it must help ease the pressure for parents/carers and be fun for children. We introduced a hot lunch in response to feedback and it has been a hit.
"We tailored the programme for children and young people with additional support needs after speaking with families. We will continue to look at our holiday provision and anything we have learned will be reflected in future."
* The summer activities were open to children and young people from low-income households and eligible priority family groups.