School Holiday Clubs Guildford: Your Complete Guide to Surrey's Best Childcare Options
Finding quality childcare during school holidays can feel like solving a puzzle whilst juggling work commitments and keeping your children entertained. If you're a Guildford parent staring down half-term or the summer holidays, you're not alone in wondering where to turn.
The good news? Guildford and the wider Surrey area offer an impressive range of school holiday clubs to suit different budgets, interests, and ages. From multi-activity camps at local schools to specialist sports programmes at Guildford Spectrum, there's something for every family—including free options for those who qualify.
Quick Answer: Guildford offers diverse holiday club options including multi-activity camps (like KOOSA Kids at Northmead Junior School and Onslow Infant School), specialist programmes at Guildford Spectrum's Xtreme Activate, outdoor adventure clubs, performing arts camps, and SEND-friendly provision. Prices typically range from £29-£54 per day, with free HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) programme places available for children receiving benefits-related free school meals.
This guide covers everything you need to know about school holiday clubs in Guildford for 2025-2026, including how to find free provision, what to expect from different providers, and practical booking tips to secure your spots.
Types of School Holiday Clubs Available in Guildford
Guildford's holiday club landscape has evolved significantly in recent years. You're no longer limited to basic childcare—today's clubs offer structured programmes designed to keep children engaged, active, and learning throughout the holidays.
Multi-Activity Holiday Clubs
Multi-activity clubs remain the most popular choice for Guildford families, and for good reason. They offer variety, flexibility, and the chance for children to try different activities without committing to a single sport or hobby.
KOOSA Kids has been operating in Guildford since 2005 and runs clubs at two local schools: Northmead Junior School and Onslow Infant School. Their Ofsted-registered provision (Registration Number: 2841039) divides children into age-appropriate groups—Krazy K's for the youngest, Kool K's for middle years, and King K's for older children.
Each day includes up to nine different activities across their 'Endeavour Zone' (sports and active games) and 'Discovery Zone' (arts, crafts, and creative activities). Children particularly love their go-karts, which feature regularly in the programme. Special themed days like 'Wicked Wednesdays' and 'Fantastic Fridays' add extra excitement with unique activities and dress-up opportunities.
Operating hours are generous—8:15am to 6:00pm—making them practical for working parents. You can book full days, half days (10:00am-4:00pm), or extended hours depending on your needs. Pricing starts at £30 per standard day, with an 8% discount when you book a full week.
Guildford Spectrum's Xtreme Activate offers something different—a central location with access to the leisure centre's facilities. This Ofsted-registered camp splits children into two age groups (5-8 years and 9-12 years) and includes activities you won't find elsewhere: ice skating, bowling, swimming, track time (weather permitting), and arts and crafts.
The camp runs Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 6:00pm during all school holidays except bank holidays. The central Guildford location means easy access via public transport, and there's ample parking for those driving in. They accept various childcare vouchers, making it easier to manage costs.
Specialist Activity Clubs
If your child has a particular passion, specialist clubs offer deeper engagement in specific areas.
Motion Dance runs performing arts camps across Surrey, including in Guildford. These camps cater to children aged 4-11 and provide a comprehensive performing arts experience. Each day includes choreographed dance routines spanning street dance, jazz, and ballet, alongside singing sessions and acting lessons.
The camps culminate in a performance where children receive costumes, face paint, and hair styling—creating a memorable experience that builds confidence. All staff hold Enhanced DBS checks, and the low-pressure environment encourages children to explore performing arts at their own pace.
The Outdoors Project takes a completely different approach with outdoor adventure and bushcraft activities. Their Christmas 2025 programme includes themed days like a Minecraft-inspired adventure where children build dens, complete challenges, and use a 'Crafting Table' to create things from hidden resources.
Other days feature Christmas Nerf games (recommended for ages 6+), campfire cooking where children learn bushcraft fire-lighting and cook pancakes and s'mores, and mega field games combined with outdoor adventures. This provider is ideal for children who thrive outdoors and love hands-on, active experiences.
Flair Gym Club offers Tumble Camp at Guildford Spectrum during the Christmas holidays (22nd, 23rd, 24th, 29th, 30th, and 31st December 2025). These four-hour sessions focus on gymnastics and trampoline skills, with children grouped by age and ability. Each day follows a lesson theme covering cartwheels, vaulting, trampoline shapes, twists, turns, and landings.
The camp accepts children aged 4-17 who can follow instructions and participate in group activities. Two snack breaks are included, though you'll need to bring healthy snacks and a water bottle.
SEND-Friendly Holiday Clubs
Finding appropriate holiday provision for children with special educational needs can be challenging, but Guildford and Surrey offer several excellent options.
Guildford Shakespeare Company runs a free SEND holiday club called TOGETHER for young people aged 12-25. This unusually broad age range makes it particularly valuable for families with older children or young adults who need structured activities during school breaks.
Disability Challengers operates across Surrey with a unique non-exclusion policy—they never turn away a child based on financial circumstances or complexity of needs. Their services include play and social opportunities specifically designed for disabled children aged 2-18, helping to reduce social isolation.
YMCA East Surrey offers Yippee clubs in Epsom, Leatherhead, and Reigate for children aged 5-11 with disabilities and additional needs. Their Yip4Youth programme serves young people aged 12-17 in similar locations. Whilst these aren't in Guildford itself, they're accessible for Surrey families and provide specialist provision during school holidays.
Many mainstream holiday clubs in Guildford also welcome children with SEND and can provide additional support. Synergy Dance at Guildford Spectrum, for example, offers sessions suitable for SEND children, including dance workshops themed around popular films.
Free and Funded Holiday Club Options in Guildford
Holiday childcare costs add up quickly, but several funding options can significantly reduce or eliminate these expenses for eligible families.
HAF Programme Locations in Guildford
The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme provides completely free holiday club places for children receiving benefits-related free school meals. This Department for Education-funded initiative aims to address the 'holiday experience gap' that affects children from low-income households.
For Christmas 2025, KOOSA Kids is offering fully funded HAF sessions on 22nd, 23rd, 29th, and 30th December at multiple Surrey locations, including:
- Northmead Junior School, Guildford
- Onslow Infant School, Guildford
Each session runs from 10:00am to 4:00pm and includes a hot or cold lunch, plus a Christmas Party on Tuesday 23rd December. Activities are designed to be enriching and fun, covering sports, arts and crafts, team games, and themed Christmas activities.
To book, you'll need a unique HAF code. Your child's school should provide this if they're eligible for benefits-related free school meals. If you haven't received a code but believe you're eligible, contact your school directly.
The HAF programme isn't just about childcare—it's designed to provide:
- Healthy, nutritious meals
- Physical activities to keep children active
- Creative experiences and skill development
- Opportunities to socialise and make friends
- Signposting to additional family support services
Research shows that children from low-income households are less likely to access organised activities during holidays and more likely to experience social isolation. The HAF programme specifically addresses these issues.
Financial Support for Holiday Childcare
Even if you don't qualify for HAF, several schemes can help reduce childcare costs.
Tax-Free Childcare is available to working families and provides a 25% government top-up on childcare costs. For every £8 you pay into your Tax-Free Childcare account, the government adds £2. You can receive up to £500 every three months (£2,000 annually) per child, or up to £4,000 for children with disabilities.
This scheme works for children up to age 11 (or 16 if disabled) and can be used for registered holiday clubs, breakfast clubs, after-school clubs, and other approved childcare. Many Guildford providers accept Tax-Free Childcare payments, including KOOSA Kids and Guildford Spectrum.
To qualify, you (and your partner if you have one) must:
- Earn at least 16 hours' pay at National Minimum Wage or Living Wage
- Not earn more than £100,000 individually
- Not be receiving Tax Credits or Universal Credit
Universal Credit Childcare Costs can cover up to 85% of childcare costs for eligible families. This applies to registered childcare including holiday clubs and can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Childcare Vouchers are still accepted by many providers if you joined a scheme before they closed to new entrants in October 2018. Guildford Spectrum and several other local providers accept various childcare voucher schemes.
Surrey County Council's Household Support Fund provides additional assistance for families experiencing financial difficulties. For the 2025-2026 period, Surrey has allocated £9.3 million to support families, though this represents a 12% reduction from previous rounds. Families with children eligible for free school meals receive supermarket vouchers during the December holiday period to help with food costs.
Popular Holiday Club Providers in Guildford and Surrounding Areas
Understanding what different providers offer helps you choose the best fit for your family.
KOOSA Kids Guildford
With 20 years of experience and multiple Ofsted 'Outstanding' ratings, KOOSA Kids is one of the most established providers in the area. Their Guildford locations at Northmead Junior School and Onslow Infant School offer consistent, high-quality provision throughout the year.
What makes them stand out:
- Age-appropriate groupings ensure activities suit developmental stages
- Flexible booking options (full day, half day, extended hours)
- 3-for-2 sibling discount (third child goes free)
- Themed weeks with special activity days
- Extended hours (8:15am-6:00pm) accommodate working parents
- Both HAF-funded and paid places available
Their autumn/winter 2025-26 programme includes themed weeks: 'Spooky-Skelebration' for October Half Term, 'Winter Wonderland' for Christmas, and 'Under the Sea' for February Half Term 2026. Each day offers up to nine activities across sports, arts, drama, science experiments, and their ever-popular go-karts.
Pricing is transparent: £30 per standard day with an 8% discount for full week bookings. Early booking is recommended as spaces fill quickly, particularly during summer holidays.
Guildford Spectrum Xtreme Activate
The central location and unique facilities make Guildford Spectrum's Xtreme Activate particularly appealing. Children get to experience activities that most holiday clubs can't offer—ice skating, bowling, and swimming—alongside traditional camp activities.
Key features:
- Two age groups (5-8 years and 9-12 years) ensure appropriate activities
- Access to Guildford Spectrum facilities
- Ofsted registered
- Accepts multiple childcare voucher schemes
- Central location with good transport links and parking
- Operating hours: 8:30am-6:00pm
Booking requires full payment upfront, and spaces are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Popular weeks can fill up quickly, so booking well in advance is advisable. If a course is full, you can join a waiting list.
The camp runs during all school holidays in 2025-2026, including February Half Term, Easter, May Half Term, Summer Holidays, October Half Term, and Christmas Holidays (excluding bank holidays).
Regional Providers Serving Guildford Families
Several excellent providers operate just outside Guildford but are easily accessible for local families.
Barracudas at Gordon's School, Woking (approximately 15 minutes from Guildford) offers one of the most comprehensive activity programmes in the region. With over 80 activities available, including archery, motorsports, water parks, and aqua slides during summer, it's a premium option for families seeking variety.
The camp serves children aged 4-14 and has received Ofsted 'Outstanding' ratings. Over 70% of their staff are fully or nearly qualified teaching professionals or specialist instructors. Facilities at Gordon's School are exceptional, including drama rooms, art rooms, sports halls, playing fields, and even an archery range.
Pricing for Barracudas is competitive when booking full weeks:
- Easter and summer full weeks: £185-£215
- Daily rate: approximately £52 per day
- Early booking discount: up to £100 off if booked before 31st January 2026
- Sibling discount: £5 off per day when booking 10+ days across multiple children
SuperCamps operates at several Surrey venues including Godalming, Cranleigh, and East Horsley. Their multi-activity camps cater to children aged 4-12 and include sports, arts and crafts, games, and occasional highlight activities like laser tag and archery.
They also offer specialist camps including Bushcraft, Chelsea FC Football, Cookery, and LEGO Play at selected venues. Daily rates range from £43-£56, with early booking discounts available. The winter 2025 theme is 'North V South Pole', ensuring varied daily experiences.
Motion Dance camps run across Surrey including Guildford, Cobham, and Walton on the Hill. These performing arts camps provide comprehensive dance, singing, and acting instruction for children aged 4-11. Each camp concludes with a performance complete with costumes, face paint, and hair styling.
What to Expect from School Holiday Clubs in Guildford
Understanding typical structures and standards helps set realistic expectations and ensures you choose the right club for your child.
Daily Activities and Structure
Most Guildford holiday clubs follow a similar daily pattern, though specific activities vary by provider.
Typical daily schedule:
8:00-9:30am: Arrival and registration (extended hours where available)
- Quiet activities, games, or free play as children arrive
- Registration and settling-in time
9:30-10:30am: First activity session
- Often outdoor sports or active games
- Team-building activities
10:30-10:45am: Morning snack break
- Bring your own snacks or provided depending on club
10:45am-12:30pm: Activity sessions
- Rotation through different activity zones
- Arts and crafts, drama, sports, or specialist activities
12:30-1:30pm: Lunch
- Packed lunch from home or provided meal (HAF clubs)
- Social time with peers
1:30-3:30pm: Afternoon activities
- Often includes themed activities or special sessions
- Creative projects, team games, or skill-building
3:30-3:45pm: Afternoon snack break
3:45-4:30pm: Final activity session or free play
4:30-6:00pm: Collection time and extended hours
- Quieter activities as children are collected
- Games, reading, or creative activities
At KOOSA Kids, for example, Wednesdays during summer holidays become 'Wicked Wednesdays' where the normal programme pauses for special themed activities. Fridays are 'Fantastic Fridays' with party days and unique experiences.
Safety and Staffing Standards
Surrey County Council sets clear expectations for holiday club safety and staffing, and reputable providers exceed these standards.
Staff qualifications and checks:
- All staff must have Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks
- First aid certification required
- Food hygiene training for staff handling meals
- Safeguarding and child protection training mandatory
- For Ofsted Early Years Register clubs, managers need minimum Level 3 qualification in relevant field
Staff-to-child ratios:
- Typical ratio: 1:10 for school-age children
- 1:8 for younger children (under 5)
- Higher ratios for children with additional needs
- Specialist activity instructors often work with smaller groups
Safety protocols:
- Secure sign-in and sign-out procedures
- Only authorised adults can collect children
- Clear behaviour policies
- Emergency procedures and first aid provision
- Regular risk assessments
- Appropriate insurance coverage
Barracudas, for instance, employs over 70% fully or nearly qualified teaching professionals or specialist instructors. KOOSA Kids has multiple Ofsted 'Outstanding' ratings, demonstrating their commitment to high standards.
What Children Should Bring
Most clubs require similar items, though always check your specific provider's list:
Essential:
- Packed lunch (unless meals provided)
- Water bottle (clearly labelled)
- Sun cream (applied before arrival in summer)
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Comfortable trainers
- Spare clothes (especially for younger children)
Optional but recommended:
- Small backpack to carry belongings
- Waterproof jacket
- Hand sanitiser
- Any necessary medication (with permission forms)
What NOT to bring:
- Valuable items or excessive money
- Electronic devices (unless specifically allowed)
- Nuts or nut products (most clubs are nut-free)
- Toys from home (to avoid loss or conflict)
Booking School Holiday Clubs in Guildford: Practical Tips
Securing places at popular clubs requires planning and quick action.
Best Times to Book for Peak Periods
Holiday club spaces in Guildford fill quickly, particularly at popular venues and during peak periods.
Booking timeline:
Christmas holidays: Book by October
- Many providers open Christmas bookings in September
- Limited dates mean spaces fill very quickly
- HAF codes typically released in November
February Half Term: Book 4-6 weeks ahead
- Shorter holiday period means fewer spaces
- Usually opens for booking in December/January
Easter holidays: Book from February/March
- Popular time for specialist camps and workshops
- Barracudas early bird discount (up to £100 off) ends 31st January
May Half Term: Book 4-6 weeks ahead
- Opens for booking in March/April
Summer holidays: Book from February/March onwards
- Longest holiday period with most variety
- Most competitive for spaces
- Early booking essential for preferred weeks
- Barracudas and SuperCamps offer early bird discounts
October Half Term: Book 4-6 weeks ahead
- Halloween-themed activities popular
- Opens for booking in August/September
KOOSA Kids typically releases their autumn/winter dates in September and spring/summer dates in early spring. Guildford Spectrum opens bookings several months in advance, with spaces allocated first-come, first-served.
What to Ask Before Booking
Not all holiday clubs are created equal. Ask these questions to ensure you're choosing the right fit:
About the programme:
- What's the typical daily schedule?
- How are children grouped (by age, ability, or mixed)?
- What activities are included each day?
- Are there themed days or special events?
- What happens in bad weather?
- Is there indoor and outdoor space?
About staffing and safety:
- What are your staff qualifications?
- What's your staff-to-child ratio?
- How do you handle behaviour issues?
- What are your safeguarding policies?
- Do you have first aid provision on-site?
- What's your Ofsted rating (if applicable)?
About logistics:
- What are your exact operating hours?
- Can I book individual days or only full weeks?
- What's your cancellation policy?
- Do you accept childcare vouchers or Tax-Free Childcare?
- Is there a sibling discount?
- What happens if my child is unwell?
About meals and dietary requirements:
- Are meals and snacks provided or packed lunch required?
- Can you accommodate dietary requirements and allergies?
- What drinks are provided?
- Are you a nut-free site?
About additional needs:
- Can you accommodate children with SEND?
- What additional support is available?
- Do you have experience with specific conditions?
- Is there additional cost for 1:1 support?
Checklist for booking:
- Check availability for your required dates
- Confirm pricing and any discounts
- Understand cancellation policy
- Ask about payment plans if needed
- Check what's included in the price
- Verify collection and drop-off procedures
- Confirm what your child needs to bring
- Ask about communication during the day
- Get emergency contact procedures
- Read reviews from other parents
School Holiday Dates 2025-2026 and Planning Ahead
Planning your childcare needs starts with knowing when schools break up.
Surrey school holiday dates 2025-2026:
October Half Term 2025: Monday 27th October - Friday 31st October
Christmas Holidays 2025: Monday 22nd December 2025 - Friday 2nd January 2026
- Schools closed: 22nd December - 2nd January
- Bank holidays: 25th-26th December, 1st January
- Most clubs operate limited dates (typically 22nd, 23rd, 29th, 30th December)
February Half Term 2026: Monday 16th February - Friday 20th February
Easter Holidays 2026: Monday 6th April - Friday 17th April
- Two-week break
- Bank holidays: Good Friday (3rd April), Easter Monday (6th April)
May Half Term 2026: Monday 25th May - Friday 29th May
- Bank holiday: Monday 25th May
Summer Holidays 2026: Monday 20th July - Friday 4th September
- Six-week break
- Bank holiday: Monday 31st August
Note: Individual schools may have slightly different dates, particularly academies. Always check your specific school's term dates.
Holiday Club Availability by Season
Different seasons offer different opportunities and challenges.
Winter clubs (Christmas):
- Limited dates due to bank holidays
- Festive-themed activities
- Often includes Christmas parties or special events
- Shorter days (typically 10am-4pm for HAF sessions)
- Indoor-focused activities
- Book early as very limited availability
Spring clubs (February Half Term and Easter):
- Week-long programmes
- Mix of indoor and outdoor activities
- Easter-themed crafts and activities
- Often includes specialist workshops
- Moderate availability
- Weather can be unpredictable
Summer clubs:
- Longest holiday period (six weeks)
- Most variety and choice
- Outdoor activities feature heavily
- Water play and sports popular
- Specialist camps and courses
- Highest demand—book earliest
- Most expensive period overall but best weekly discounts
Autumn clubs (October Half Term):
- Halloween-themed activities
- Week-long programmes
- Mix of indoor and outdoor
- Moderate availability
- Often includes special themed days
Planning table:
| Holiday Period | Typical Booking Window | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas 2025 | September-October | Very limited dates, book immediately when released |
| February Half Term 2026 | December-January | Short notice, moderate availability |
| Easter 2026 | February-March | Two weeks, plan for both or alternate |
| May Half Term 2026 | March-April | Short break, fills quickly |
| Summer 2026 | February onwards | Six weeks, book earliest for best choice |
| October Half Term 2026 | August-September | Halloween theme, moderate availability |
Alternative Holiday Activities and Free Options in Guildford
Holiday clubs aren't the only option. Guildford offers numerous free and low-cost activities to supplement or replace paid childcare.
Free and Low-Cost Activities
Guildford Spectrum public sessions:
- Ice skating: Various session times throughout holidays
- Swimming: Public swim sessions
- Snow Globe Skate in December: Winter wonderland experience with falling snow
- Individual session prices more affordable than full-day camps
Surrey Libraries:
- Free storytimes and activities during holidays
- Christmas-themed events
- Craft sessions
- Reading challenges with prizes
- Air-conditioned spaces on hot days
Parks and outdoor spaces:
- Stoke Park: Large open space, playground, café
- Riverside Nature Reserve: Nature walks, wildlife spotting
- Shalford Park: Playground, open space, river access
- Pewley Down: Stunning views, perfect for picnics
- Newlands Corner: Walks, playground, café
Museums and cultural venues:
- Guildford Museum: Free entry, local history exhibits
- Watts Gallery - Artists' Village: Victorian winter wonderland experience at Christmas
- Guildford Castle Grounds: Free to explore, great views
- Dapdune Wharf: Historic working wharf (National Trust)
Seasonal events:
- Guildford Christmas lights and markets (late November onwards)
- Free concerts and performances in town centre
- Community events at local parks
- Library holiday activities
Low-cost options:
- AirHop Guildford: Trampoline park, session-based pricing
- Wild Wood Adventure: Treetop adventure course
- RHS Garden Wisley: Family membership offers good value
- Hatchlands Park (National Trust): Free for members
Combining Holiday Clubs with Family Time
You don't need to book full weeks of holiday club to make it work. Many families use a mix-and-match approach:
Strategy 1: Part-week booking
- Book 2-3 days per week instead of full weeks
- Alternate weeks between partners
- Combine with grandparent care or childcare swaps
- Use free activities on other days
Strategy 2: Morning or afternoon sessions
- Book half-day sessions where available
- Combine with working from home
- Use extended family for remaining hours
Strategy 3: Alternate weeks
- One parent takes week 1, other takes week 2
- Book holiday clubs for remaining weeks
- Reduces overall cost significantly
Strategy 4: Mix providers
- Use HAF sessions where eligible
- Add paid sessions at different venues
- Combine with free activities
- Creates variety for children
Budget-friendly strategies:
For Christmas holidays:
- HAF sessions: 22nd, 23rd, 29th, 30th December (free if eligible)
- Free activities: 24th, 27th, 28th, 31st December
- Family time: Bank holidays
For summer holidays:
- Week 1: Holiday club
- Week 2: Grandparents/family
- Week 3: Free activities and days out
- Week 4: Holiday club
- Week 5: Childcare swap with friends
- Week 6: Family holiday or staycation
This approach reduces costs whilst maintaining structure and social opportunities for children.
Frequently Asked Questions About School Holiday Clubs in Guildford
How much do school holiday clubs cost in Guildford?
Daily rates for holiday clubs in Guildford typically range from £29 to £54 per day, according to Surrey County Council data. KOOSA Kids charges around £30 per standard day with an 8% discount for full weeks. Guildford Spectrum's Xtreme Activate falls within this range. Premium providers like Barracudas charge approximately £52 per day but offer early bird discounts of up to £100 if you book before 31st January 2026.
Free options are available through the HAF programme for children receiving benefits-related free school meals. Tax-Free Childcare can reduce costs by 25%, and sibling discounts are common (KOOSA Kids offers 3-for-2, Barracudas offers £5 off per day for multiple children).
What age children can attend holiday clubs in Guildford?
Most Guildford holiday clubs cater for children aged 4-12 years. KOOSA Kids accepts children from Reception through Year 7 (ages 4-13). Guildford Spectrum's Xtreme Activate serves ages 5-12, split into two groups (5-8 and 9-12).
Some specialist clubs have different ranges: Motion Dance accepts ages 4-11, Flair Gym Club's Tumble Camp takes ages 4-17, and The Outdoors Project recommends some activities for ages 6+. For SEND provision, Guildford Shakespeare Company's TOGETHER programme uniquely serves ages 12-25.
Always check specific age requirements when booking, as some clubs require children to be fully toilet trained or able to follow group instructions independently.
Are there free holiday clubs in Guildford?
Yes. The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme provides completely free holiday club places for children receiving benefits-related free school meals. For Christmas 2025, KOOSA Kids is offering fully funded sessions on 22nd, 23rd, 29th, and 30th December at Northmead Junior School and Onslow Infant School in Guildford.
Each session runs 10am-4pm and includes a hot or cold lunch plus enriching activities. To access HAF provision, you need a unique HAF code from your child's school. The programme operates during major school holidays (Christmas, Easter, summer) and aims to provide healthy meals, physical activities, and social opportunities for eligible children.
Surrey's Club4 programme also offers free holiday activities for children on free school meals, with camps run by trained local providers across the county.
What time do holiday clubs run in Guildford?
Operating hours vary by provider but typically span working hours to accommodate parents' schedules.
Standard hours are usually 8:30am-6:00pm or 9:00am-4:00pm. KOOSA Kids offers extended hours from 8:15am-6:00pm with a shorter day option of 10:00am-4:00pm. Guildford Spectrum's Xtreme Activate runs 8:30am-6:00pm.
HAF sessions typically operate 10:00am-4:00pm. Some providers offer early drop-off and late collection for additional fees. Barracudas, for example, has standard hours of 8:30am-5:30pm with optional Early/Late Clubs extending from 8:00am-6:00pm.
Always confirm exact times when booking, as they can vary by venue and holiday period.
Do I need to book holiday clubs in advance?
Yes, absolutely. Popular Guildford holiday clubs fill quickly, particularly during summer holidays and at convenient venues like Northmead Junior School and Guildford Spectrum.
Recommended booking windows:
- Christmas holidays: Book by October
- Summer holidays: Book from February/March
- Half-term weeks: Book 4-6 weeks ahead
KOOSA Kids typically releases dates 3-6 months in advance. Guildford Spectrum operates first-come, first-served booking. Barracudas offers early bird discounts (up to £100 off) for bookings made before 31st January 2026.
For HAF sessions, codes are usually released 4-6 weeks before the holiday period. Book immediately when you receive your code as free places are limited and highly sought-after.
What should my child bring to holiday club?
Most Guildford holiday clubs require similar items:
Essential:
- Packed lunch (unless meals provided)
- Water bottle (clearly labelled)
- Sun cream (pre-applied in summer)
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Comfortable trainers
- Spare clothes (especially for younger children)
For specific activities:
- Swimming costume and towel (Guildford Spectrum)
- Hat and sunglasses (outdoor clubs)
- Waterproof jacket
What NOT to bring:
- Electronic devices
- Valuable items
- Nuts or nut products (most clubs are nut-free)
- Toys from home
Flair Gym Club's Tumble Camp specifically requires healthy snacks for two snack breaks. HAF sessions provide lunch, so packed lunch isn't needed. Always check your specific provider's requirements list.
Are there holiday clubs for children with special needs in Guildford?
Yes. Guildford and Surrey offer several SEND-friendly options:
Specialist provision:
- Guildford Shakespeare Company's TOGETHER programme (ages 12-25, free)
- Disability Challengers (non-exclusion policy, ages 2-18)
- YMCA East Surrey Yippee clubs in Epsom, Leatherhead, and Reigate (ages 5-11)
Inclusive mainstream clubs:
- Synergy Dance at Guildford Spectrum offers SEND-suitable sessions
- Many multi-activity clubs can accommodate children with additional needs with advance notice
When booking, discuss your child's specific needs with providers. Ask about staff training, support ratios, and previous experience with similar needs. Many clubs can provide 1:1 or 2:1 support, though this may incur additional costs.
Surrey's HAF programme specifically ensures provision for children with SEND, with flexibility in programme design to meet individual needs.
Can I get help with holiday club costs in Surrey?
Yes, several schemes can help reduce costs:
Tax-Free Childcare: Government adds £2 for every £8 you pay (25% top-up). Maximum £2,000 per child per year (£4,000 for disabled children). Available for working families earning under £100,000 individually.
Universal Credit Childcare: Covers up to 85% of childcare costs for eligible families.
HAF Programme: Completely free for children on benefits-related free school meals.
Childcare Vouchers: Accepted by many providers if you joined a scheme before October 2018.
Household Support Fund: Surrey County Council provides supermarket vouchers for eligible families during holidays.
Sibling Discounts: Most providers offer discounts for multiple children (KOOSA Kids: 3-for-2, Barracudas: £5 off per day).
Check your eligibility at the Childcare Choices website or use the Childcare Calculator to determine potential support.
What activities do Guildford holiday clubs offer?
Activities vary by provider but typically include:
Sports and active games:
- Football, basketball, cricket
- Team games and competitions
- Outdoor play and exploration
- Go-karting (KOOSA Kids)
Creative activities:
- Arts and crafts
- Drama and role-play
- Music and dance
- Science experiments
Specialist activities:
- Ice skating (Guildford Spectrum)
- Swimming (Guildford Spectrum)
- Bowling (Guildford Spectrum)
- Gymnastics and trampolining (Flair Gym Club)
- Performing arts (Motion Dance)
- Bushcraft and outdoor adventure (The Outdoors Project)
Themed activities:
- Christmas crafts and parties
- Halloween activities
- Seasonal celebrations
- Special themed days (Wicked Wednesdays at KOOSA Kids)
Most clubs rotate activities throughout the day, ensuring children experience variety and can try new things.
How do I find Ofsted-registered holiday clubs in Guildford?
Use Surrey County Council's Childcare Finder tool on their website. This searchable database includes all registered providers in your area, including holiday clubs.
You can filter by:
- Location (postcode or area)
- Type of provision (holiday club)
- Age range
- Ofsted rating
Alternatively, check individual provider websites for their Ofsted registration numbers. KOOSA Kids Northmead, for example, displays Registration Number: 2841039. Guildford Spectrum's Xtreme Activate is also Ofsted registered.
Ofsted registration isn't mandatory for all holiday clubs (particularly those for older children), but it's a good indicator of quality standards and means the club is eligible for Tax-Free Childcare and other funding schemes.
Are meals provided at Guildford holiday clubs?
It varies by provider:
Meals provided:
- HAF sessions (KOOSA Kids): Hot or cold lunch included
- Some specialist camps include snacks
Packed lunch required:
- KOOSA Kids (non-HAF sessions)
- Guildford Spectrum Xtreme Activate
- Most multi-activity clubs
- Flair Gym Club Tumble Camp
What to pack:
- Healthy, balanced lunch
- Avoid nuts (most clubs are nut-free)
- Include snacks for break times
- Clearly label everything
- Consider food safety in warm weather
Some clubs provide drinks, but always send a water bottle. Check your specific provider's policy when booking, and inform them of any allergies or dietary requirements.
What's the cancellation policy for holiday clubs?
Policies vary significantly by provider:
KOOSA Kids: Check specific terms when booking. Generally, fees are non-refundable but may allow transfers to different dates in some circumstances.
Guildford Spectrum: Full payment required upfront. Check cancellation terms at booking.
Barracudas: Non-refundable booking fees. Check full terms and conditions.
Flair Gym Club: Non-refundable bookings, but may allow transfers if child is unwell (with notice).
HAF sessions: Free to book, but please cancel if you can't attend so another family can use the place.
Most providers require advance notice for cancellations and may not offer refunds for illness or changed circumstances. Consider this when booking, and check if your provider offers flexible booking options or the ability to transfer to different dates.
Some providers accept insurance that covers cancellations due to illness or emergency—ask when booking if this is available.
Making the Most of School Holidays in Guildford
Finding the right holiday club for your family doesn't have to be stressful. Start by identifying your priorities—is it convenient location, specific activities, cost, or flexible hours? Then research providers that meet those needs.
Book early, especially for summer holidays and popular venues like KOOSA Kids and Guildford Spectrum. If you're eligible for HAF funding, register for your code as soon as schools notify you. For paid provision, consider Tax-Free Childcare to reduce costs by 25%.
Don't feel pressured to book full weeks of childcare. Many families successfully combine holiday clubs with free activities, grandparent care, and flexible working. The key is planning ahead and booking your preferred dates before they fill.
Guildford's holiday club provision has never been stronger, with options ranging from free HAF sessions to specialist performing arts camps and outdoor adventures. Whatever your budget and your child's interests, there's something to keep them engaged, active, and happy throughout the school holidays.
Ready to book your child's holiday club?
Start by checking Surrey County Council's Childcare Finder for registered providers in your area. If you're eligible for HAF funding, speak to your child's school about obtaining your code. For paid provision, visit provider websites directly to check availability and book your preferred dates.
The earlier you book, the better your choice of dates and activities. Don't wait until the last minute—popular Guildford holiday clubs fill quickly, particularly during summer holidays.
For more information about childcare support and funding, visit the Childcare Choices website or contact Surrey's Family Information Service for personalised advice about your options.