Spirix Summer 2025: Building Confidence, Community and Joy
This summer, Spirix delivered a high-quality programme of Holiday Activities & Food (HAF) Clubs across Leigh. Over six weeks 1,089 places were attended, delivering 275 hours of creative, active and inclusive provision designed to support wellbeing, build confidence and provide positive summer experiences for those who need them most.
Impact in Numbers
1,577 places offered/booked
1,089 attendances
69% attendance rate, above the national HAF average (~60%)
64 delivery days across 4 community venues
275 hours of structured activity
14 professional artists employed
7 young people employed as assistant artists
1,275 staff hours created
Spirix is for Everyone
Spirix HAF Clubs reached into the communities that benefit most from creative opportunities:
43% of participants with SEND or EAL needs supported
74% girls – Spirix helping to close the gender gap in holiday provision
75% from WN7 and WN2, some of the most disadvantaged wards in Wigan Borough
21% from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups
Every child. Every background. Every ability. Spirix makes space for all.
What Children Experienced
Dance • Drama • Circus skills (plate spinning and juggling) • Boxing • Arts & Crafts • Drumming • Film Making • Healthy Food • Bouncy Castle • Disco • Water Fights • Fruit Tasting • Fire Engine Visits
The feedback says it all:
“100% Fun.”
Building People as well as Programmes
Spirix creates opportunities not only for children but for artists and young leaders too:
14 professional artists engaged in meaningful summer work
7 young people employed, developing confidence, skills and career pathways
Spirix grows communities and careers.
Partnerships and Collaboration
Spirix Summer HAF Clubs thrived thanks to the support of brilliant partners. We worked with Boxing for Better to deliver high-energy sessions that built fitness and resilience, and launched a pilot HAF programme at Shakerley Community Centre, expanding access for local families and testing new ways of working in community settings. The programme was made possible through funding from Wigan Council, via the Department for Education’s HAF scheme, ensuring children and young people in Leigh had access to safe, creative and nourishing summer activities.
Why It Matters
This summer Spirix created safe, inspiring spaces where children felt included, supported and free to shine. We reached those who need us most, invested in local talent and delivered above the national average in engagement.
