Holiday fun to beat boredom (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Holiday fun to beat boredom

9:39am Wednesday 1st September 2010 in

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A BOREDOM-busting initiative kept kids entertained during the summer holidays.

More than 650 youngsters took part in Get With, which ran throughout the school holidays.

Organised by Sentinel Housing Association and Everest Community College, the scheme offered more than 30 different activities for youngsters in Basingstoke.

From football to roller hockey and DJ-ing to computer design, youngsters took part in the sessions throughout the summer months.

At a big finale on August 20 children were treated to a fun day with farm animals, inflatable rides, entertainers and more.

Get With, now in its fifth year, began after complaints about the number of youngsters roaming the streets with little to do.

The scheme continues to grow year-on-year and is now Hampshire’s biggest community youth project.

Activities were offered to youngsters up to the age of 17, with taster sessions for older teenagers, including courses in baby sitting and first aid.

Sentinel neighbourhood manager Melissa Chapman said: “It’s hard to believe it’s all over, but I’m really pleased that everyone has gone the extra mile once again.

“We’ve had 650 children through the doors in the last four weeks, enjoying some great activities like designing their own computer games, musical theatre workshops, and even sessions at the Chelsea FC Soccer School.

“Our diary room has also allowed us to see what really matters to young people in our area, which is a big help to our work in the communities we serve.”

Everest community manager John Perrin added: “Once again the children were the winners.

“Our partnering with Sentinel and other organisations goes from strength to strength.”