Summer programme blog

Here at Aberdeen Foyer we are reflecting on a summer full of fun, where we delivered a range of activities for young people through our Foyer Futures team. 18 young people experienced different activities every week of the school holidays, made possible with support from YouthLink Scotland’s Summer of Play Funding.

Back in April, we asked young people attending The Foyer what activities they would like to take part in over the summer holidays. The ideas shaped our application and ensured that the activities were what young people really wanted. Our Foyer Futures Team, who look after our young folk put together a varied programme that included:

1. Duthie Park scavenger hunt

2. Art: tie dye, rock art, graffiti

3. Football

4. Paddle boarding

5. Wreck it rooms

6. Sea saffari boat trip

7. Golf

8. Bowling

9. Walks: Cove Bay and Harbour, Aberdeen beach front, NuArt

10. Trampolining – Jump in

11. Paintballing

12. Codonas

13. Go karting

After over a year of the Covid pandemic, The Foyer team were determined to make Summer 2021 a memorable one. At the beginning of the summer, it was still unclear what restrictions would be in place and although young people had told us what they wanted to do, we weren’t sure if it would be possible. We decided to keep our plans as local as possible just in case further restrictions were put in place. As the restrictions continued to ease, we were able to honour some of the bigger trips our young people had requested. 

Gathering in groups indoors was not possible this summer, so the team cleaned up the outside area at The Foyer, creating an outdoor space that could be used for art sessions.

For most of the young people, the Summer Programme provided an opportunity to have fun and make new friends. Young people were able to meet others in a safe, supported environment, accompanied by Development Coaches they knew and trusted. We helped build confidence and new friendships were made.

For many of the young people who took part it came at the perfect time, as they prepared for starting back at school and beginning college, which are often anxious transitions for those who have been out of mainstream education for some time. All the young people who took part tried something new, broadened their horizons and grew in confidence.

To find out more contact: beth.finnigan@aberdeenfoyer.com