Registrations Opening for HOPS Next Week

Henley Outdoor Playscheme (HOPS) is gearing up for another exciting year with registrations opening on 16 June.

The forty-year-old Henley tradition provides a week of fun activities for children in years 1-7 at the beginning of the summer holidays and sees hundreds of local children over the five days.

HOPS chair, Emma Taylor, 42, of Western Avenue, said: “Last year over 300 families enjoyed what HOPS has to offer. The children really enjoy having a chance to be independent within a safe environment – they feel grown up spending their money at the tuck shop and choosing their own activities, while they are actually being supervised by the team of play helpers.”

The scheme, which is being held at Trinity School, is currently recruiting for play helpers. They must be over 16 and willing to have a DBS check and undertake safeguarding training. Applications are via hopsenquiry@yahoo.com.

Registrations open June 16, and many Henley pupils will receive a flyer in their book bag, but if not the registration form can be downloaded from www.hopshenley.co.uk after that date.

Ms Taylor added: “We are an inclusive playscheme and welcome applications for children with additional needs, as well as from those people who might need an assisted place, of which there are limited numbers available.

“HOPS is always fantastic fun and all of us on the committee are looking forward to it.”

She continued: “New this year is our Buddy Scheme, which we are providing for any children who might need extra help settling in for any reason. Maybe they don’t know the school layout, or are shy, or have additional needs, or simply don’t know anyone else attending. Our dedicated Buddies will give them a guided tour of HOPS and stay with them for up to the first hour to help them feel comfortable and happy. It’s so important to us that every child that attends has a fantastic time and this will help the less confident children settle in and feel at home.”

Among the activities on offer this year are fairground rides, circus skills workshops, candle making, dance workshops and a disco, arts and craft, woodwork, various sports including squash, inflatables, sewing and a beauty room.

For more information visit the website, email, or call 07799 413 903.