A Parent Friendly Look Inside a Holiday Camp Day
Parents often ask what children actually do at holiday camp. It is one of the most common questions we receive before each school holiday. Families want to know if their child will stay active, make friends, learn new skills and come home happy. They also want reassurance that holiday clubs offer safe childcare, real structure and a fun mix of activities.
This guide gives you a clear and honest look inside a real day at a Rising Stars holiday camp. It includes an example timetable, explains each activity block and shows how children of different year groups enjoy each part of the day. Whether you are planning summer holiday clubs, half term camps or Christmas activities, this breakdown will help you understand exactly what to expect.
A Warm Welcome and a Confident Start
Every day begins with a friendly welcome from coaches. This small moment has a big impact. Children feel calm, recognised and ready to join in. Even shy children settle quickly when the morning starts with smiles and gentle encouragement.
Bags go down. Coats come off. A few warm up games help everyone ease into the day at their own pace. This smooth routine often gives parents a sense of comfort and makes the morning drop off feel effortless.
A Real Day at Holiday Camp: The Timetable Explained
Holiday camps run best when children follow a predictable and engaging structure. This helps them feel secure, stay focused and enjoy a balanced mix of movement, creativity and social interaction. Below is an example of a genuine Rising Stars timetable used across London and Hertfordshire locations.
10:00am to 11:00am — First Activity Block
| Group | Activities |
| Reception | Parachute Games or Drama |
| Year 1 | Cricket or Musical Games |
| Year 2 | Nerf Guns or Multi Sport Games |
| Year 3+ | Football or Nature Drawing |
What children get from this block
Reception children begin with parachute games or drama. These activities help them build imagination, follow simple instructions and work as a group. It is a gentle way to start their day.
Year 1 starts with cricket or musical games. These sessions are perfect for warming up muscles, improving coordination and helping children feel connected to the group.
Year 2 begins with Nerf games or multi sport sessions. These activities are energetic and engaging, helping children burn off early morning excitement while developing quick reactions and teamwork.
Year 3 and older children choose between football and nature drawing. This gives them either a high energy start or a calm and creative entry into the day, depending on their mood and confidence levels.
11:15am to 12:15pm — Mid Morning Session
| Group | Activities |
| Reception | Football or Chill Hub |
| Year 1 | Tennis or Arts and Crafts |
| Year 2 | King Ball / Four Square or Gymnastics |
| Year 3+ | Netball or Playground Games |
What children get from this block
Reception children take part in football or enter the Chill Hub, where they can play with Lego, read or relax. This mix helps children recharge while still feeling involved.
Year 1 enjoys tennis or arts and crafts. These contrasting sessions blend physical skill building with hands on creativity, keeping children fully engaged and excited.
Year 2 rotates through activities like King Ball, Four Square or gymnastics, helping children develop balance, coordination and social skills in friendly team environments.
Year 3 and older children join netball or playground games. These sessions help build stamina, strategy skills and confidence while providing lots of laughter and teamwork.
12:45pm to 1:45pm — Early Afternoon Session
| Group | Activities |
| Reception | Dodgeball or Rising Stars Got Talent |
| Year 1 | Football or Bouncy Castle |
| Year 2 | Football or Chill Hub |
| Year 3+ | Basketball or Disco |
What children get from this block
Reception children love dodgeball and Rising Stars Got Talent. Dodgeball supports reaction skills, while talent shows help children grow in confidence and self expression.
Year 1 enjoys football or bouncy castle sessions. These activities bring out big smiles and help children release energy in a safe and supervised space.
Year 2 chooses between football or the Chill Hub, creating a healthy balance between structured activity and quiet time.
Year 3 and older children take part in basketball or disco sessions. Both options keep spirits high and allow children to finish the first part of the afternoon feeling upbeat and connected.
2:00pm to 2:45pm — Final Activity Block
| Group | Activities |
| Reception | Playground Free Play or Bouncy Castle |
| Year 1 | Benchball or Ultimate Quiz |
| Year 2 | Table Tennis or Cross Country |
| Year 3+ | Superstars Circuit or Football Tennis |
What children get from this block
Reception children end their day with playground free play or the bouncy castle. This relaxed finish helps them go home happy and ready to rest.
Year 1 enjoys benchball or the Ultimate Quiz. These options combine movement, problem solving and teamwork, giving children a rewarding finish.
Year 2 wraps up with table tennis or cross country. These sessions help build focus, stamina and coordination while giving children a sense of accomplishment.
Year 3 and older children complete Superstars Circuit or football tennis. These high energy activities are fun, competitive and a great way to end the day feeling positive and confident.
Why Parents Love This Structured Day
A timetable like this offers children the perfect balance between fun, learning and personal growth. Parents often tell us their children look forward to camp more than any other part of the school holiday. Here is why this structured approach works so well.
Consistency helps children feel secure
Clear routines allow children to relax and settle quickly. Knowing what comes next reduces anxiety and boosts confidence.
Variety keeps every day exciting
Sports, creative tasks, team games and quiet moments are all woven into the timetable. This variety ensures children stay engaged and enjoy each part of the day.
Activities match each age group
Reception children need softer starts. Older children enjoy competitive games. Each block is designed to suit the developmental stage of that specific age group.
Energy cycles are carefully planned
High movement blocks are balanced with calmer sessions. This helps children regulate their energy, avoid overwhelm and stay in a positive mood throughout the day.
Skill building happens naturally
Children develop:
- Coordination
- Balance
- Teamwork
- Creativity
- Confidence
- Social skills
These improvements happen gently through play and group challenges.
Children go home happy and fulfilled
After a full day of structured holiday camp activities, children leave with new friendships, new stories and a feeling of accomplishment. Parents often notice improved mood, better sleep and more confidence at home.
Holiday Camps Near You in London
Because London is so large, parents often search by borough. These popular searches help families find convenient options:
- Holiday camps East Finchley
- Holiday camps in Finchley
- Holiday clubs in Hampstead
- Holiday camps in Hertford
- Holiday clubs in Stratford
- Holiday clubs in Hampstead
Rising Stars Activities operates across London and Hertfordshire, giving families access to trusted, active, and welcoming camps in their own communities.
