This week, Surrey Cricket Foundation (SCF) offered 80 local primary schoolchildren a brilliant week of free activities as part of the ‘Vauxhall Loop’ programme.
The programme supported young south Londoners, in one of the most disadvantaged areas of the country, during their summer holidays. Pupils from primary schools close to The Kia Oval were offered the opportunity to take part in the Vauxhall Loop.
SCF partnered with 12 local organisations to offer a wide range of activities and give the participants the chance to learn from experts in their field. Sessions included bee-keeping, clay modelling and rock climbing as well as playing cricket and trying their hand at cooking.
The activities aimed to keep the schoolchildren entertained but also they are preparing them for the future and giving them experience in things they have not done previously.
The young people were also provided with breakfast and lunch free of charge thanks to funding from Lambeth Council’s holiday food programme. The events were planned to allow the young people to socialise with others from various backgrounds, building new friendships and breaking down barriers.
11 year-old Alina said: “We’ve done lots of different activities which have been really fun. There’s been lots of sessions that get you really active. I’ve made new friends this week”
9 year-old Jerome said: “I’ve enjoyed playing cricket, doing cooking and the rock climbing. I’ve met a lot of new people and enjoyed making new friends. I enjoyed the week 100%, I’d give it a 10 of 10!”
Chris Coleman, Director of the Surrey Cricket Foundation, said “It’s been a pleasure to run this programme and to offer these sessions for the young people in the local community. It’s part of our commitment to give back to the residents of Vauxhall and support families in the area. We’re already planning for the next year’s Vauxhall Loop in the Easter holidays.”
FULL LIST OF ACTIVITIES:
- Arts & crafts @Art4Space
- Performing Arts with the Boury Academy
- Cricket with the @SurreyCricketFoundation
- Rock Climbing with @VauxWall
- Gardening with @v.g.e.r.t.a
- Cookery with @thesoulshackldn
- Sports with Black Prince Hub
- DJing with @wrightsacademy
- Skateboarding with @urbanstudiosessions
- Bee keeping with @BeeUrbanLondon
