A programme providing children and young people with nutritious meals and activities during the summer holidays has delivered its one-millionth place.
Bwyd a Hwyl Food and Fun reached the major milestone as it entered its second decade this summer.
The initiative began as a pilot project led by Cardiff Council before developing into the national School Holiday Enrichment Programme, which is delivered in schools across Wales and coordinated by the Welsh Local Government Association.
Schemes operated in all 22 local authorities again this summer, with 384 schools participating and more than 16,000 places available each day.
Supported by £5.85 million from the Welsh Government, the programme provides nutritious breakfasts and lunches alongside activities for learners throughout the summer holidays.
It aims to promote healthy living, support learner wellbeing and strengthen engagement between families, schools and communities.
Activities and other provision are delivered through both English and Welsh.
The programme is supported by local authority teams, school staff and partner organisations, which work together to provide summer experiences for children and young people across Wales.
Cabinet Minister for Education and the Welsh Language Anna Brychan visited Blenheim Road Primary School to celebrate the achievement of reaching one million places.
This year’s theme, Legends (Chwedlau), invited learners to embark on a quest for a shield.
Children took part in a range of activities exploring local and national legends, including real and mythical figures from the past and present.
Anna Brychan said: “One million places to support learners has only been reached thanks to the hard work of the education and local authority workforce, who create an interesting programme for learners.
“Bwyd a Hwyl Food and Fun provides many benefits, including helping to build confidence, supports wellbeing and gives learners the chance to try new things and spend time with friends during the summer holidays in the familiar environment of their school.
“During my visit to Blenheim Road Primary School, it was clear to see how the programme benefits learners and how much they were enjoying themselves.
“The focus on food literacy was particularly welcome, as was the wealth of volunteering opportunities the programme offers local young people, to work alongside and learn from experienced youth and play leads.”
Councillor Lis Burnett, WLGA Spokesperson for Education, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the Cabinet Minister to Blenheim Road to see the difference Bwyd a Hwyl Food and Fun makes to children and families. Healthy meals, fun activities, and opportunities to learn and socialise help children thrive during the school holidays, while easing pressure on family budgets and supports children in readiness for return to school in September.
“Providing more than one million funded places over the past 11 years is a remarkable milestone. It reflects the dedication of councils, schools, and their partners across Wales, and we are proud to work with the Welsh Government to give even more children these valuable opportunities.”
