Stockton October half-term HAF bookings open at noon on Monday

Bookings for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's October Holidays Are Fun programme open at 12 noon on Monday 12 October 2026, giving eligible families access to half-term activities with a meal included.

The council is already allowing families to browse the programme and register interest through its official HAF page. Places are limited and some sessions are expected to fill quickly, so the practical first step is to check eligibility and look through the available activities before booking begins.

Who can use the programme?

HAF is for eligible school-age children who live in the Stockton-on-Tees borough, from reception through to year 11. Nursery-age children cannot take part. A four-year-old must have started full-time education in reception, or the equivalent, before they can be considered.

Children registered for targeted free school meals are automatically eligible. The wording matters because free school meal rules changed in September 2026. Targeted free school meals apply to households receiving Universal Credit with annual household earnings of £7,400 or less. Expanded free school meals cover Universal Credit households earning above that threshold, but this second category does not by itself create automatic HAF entitlement.

The council has a limited number of places for children who meet wider criteria. These can include children from low-income households receiving expanded free school meals, looked-after children, young carers and children supported by Children's Services. Families receiving Universal Credit are asked to state this when booking. In some cases, a social worker, support worker or youth worker can make a referral, while the council makes the final decision about flexible-funding places.

Universal infant free school meals are also separate. All children in reception, year 1 and year 2 receive that meal offer, but it does not automatically show that a child qualifies for HAF. Families unsure about their position can use the council's callback request rather than guessing.

Activities, meals and support needs

The October programme includes a mixture of martial arts, sports and games, arts and crafts, performing arts, cookery, community events, family activities and sessions designed for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Every child attending a funded session will receive at least one meal. The council says meals meet school food standards and are served hot where possible, while some providers also offer snacks or more than one meal. Dietary, religious, SEND and other support requirements should be explained fully during booking so providers can decide what arrangements are needed.

Unless an activity is specifically advertised as a family session, parents and carers cannot remain during child-only activities. The council says this is for safeguarding reasons.

Booking and waiting lists

Bookings are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. If a chosen activity is full, families can ask the HAF team about a waiting list in case a place becomes available. Anyone who later cannot attend should cancel using the details in their confirmation email so another child can use the space.

Families can browse October HAF activities, check the current rules and reach the official booking service through Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council. The same page links to a callback form for families who want to discuss eligibility, dietary needs, SEND provision or suitable activities. Some providers also offer paid places alongside funded sessions, with separate details available through the council.