Eight free activities for 11-16s in Portsmouth this summer

Older children in Portsmouth can learn to DJ, play laser quest, skate, improve their sports skills, and catch up on the latest films for free thanks to a scheme from Portsmouth City Council.

The council’s Summer Sessions programme runs from 31 July and offers free events for children aged between 11 and 16.

The sessions are open to anyone living in PO1 – PO6. People who attend will also receive a free meal as well as a free bus ticket to and from the sessions.

The event is run by the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) team working with the Household Support Fund to extend the offer to all children in the city, regardless of whether they receive government-funded free school meals.

Cllr Suzy Horton, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, said: “I’m so pleased we can use some of the funding from the household support fund to offer these free sessions to kids over 11 in the city. This is your opportunity to get out, meet new people, and learn something new over the holidays, and it doesn’t cost a thing! Get involved!”

Booking is required, and spaces are limited. https://eequ.org/portsmouthcitycouncilsummersessions

Any questions? Phone 07901 100537 or email eptengagement@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

The activities available are:

Get your skates on!
Wednesday 31 July and 28 August, from 11am to 2pm

Enjoy a free skate session at Pitt Street Skatepark, Portsmouth’s first indoor space of its kind. All kit is provided, but if you want to bring your own skates, board or helmet you can. Even if you’ve never been on a board or skates, this session is the perfect opportunity to learn something new. There’ll be guided skating, a roller disco with a live DJ for the dancers, a design-your-own skateboard activity and a free lunch provided.

Archery, assault course and adventure at Peter Ashley
Saturday 24 August from 11am to 2pm

Come down to the Peter Ashley Activity Centre to join in on free Laser Tag, Archery, Bouldering, Air Rifle shooting, with a free lunch included!

Football and pizza party
Thursday 22 August and Tuesday 27 August, from 11am to 2pm

Whether you can bend it like Beckham or are completely new to the game, come along to Goals to play five-a-side on the best small-sided football pitches in Portsmouth. When it’s time for a breather, there’ll be free pizza, burgers and drinks. Goals’ top coaches will also be running skill sessions on the cutting-edge, all-weather surfaces and you’ll then have the chance to use your new skills in matches with your friends.

Outdoor pop-up cinema, crafts and games
Friday 16 and 23 August, from 11am to 3pm

An outdoor pop-up cinema is coming to Paulsgrove, and you’re invited! Come down to Paulsgrove Community Centre, for a fun, free outdoor screening of two of the biggest films The Super Mario Bros (16 Aug) and Wonka (23 Aug). Enjoy a picnic lunch and popcorn and take part in some fun outdoor activities once the credits have rolled.

DJ, music, arts and crafts workshop
Thursday 8 August, from 11am to 2pm

Come down to The Base at The Guildhall for free guided DJ mixing sessions. Learn how to make some noise with different instruments, take part in art workshops, with a free lunch!