Questions? Here’s all the things you need to know!

What does my child need to bring and wear?: Being correctly equipped for activities is essential not only for your child’s safety but also for their enjoyment! We will provide all essential activity and safety equipment,
however we do ask that your child brings the following with them every day!
Old clothing to get outdoors, wet and muddy in! Name tagged and easily washable!
2 x old trainers (one to get wet in, and one to do dry activities)
A full change of clothes (including pants and socks)
A towel
Warm spare layers (jumper!)
Sun cream and hat
Water bottle
Thick socks (to wear with walking boots)
A nut free snack!
If you child also has the following please make sure you send these too:
Walking boots with ankle support and thick socks for them
Waterproofs – top and bottoms
Insect repellent (No DEET as it damages our safety equipment)
What not to bring?: We have a strict no knife policy including no pocketknives. To keep everyone safe we are also a nut-free site. Mobile phones are not permitted during the day. If your child requires their mobile phone for onward travel they will be required to give it to the day camp team in the morning, and it will be returned at the end of the day. We also recommend that your child doesn’t bring any valuables. Any valuables that are brought onto site are at your own risk.
What food is provided?: We provide a hot, nutritious lunch every day that meets school meal standards. As our campers are active outdoors from the moment they arrive, we recommend they start their day at home with a good breakfast and come ready to go. Children are also welcome to bring along a few healthy NUT FREE snacks to keep their energy up between activities!
What time do I need to drop my child off?: Please see the timetable emailed to you on eequ. For parents dropping off and collecting your child from day camps, drop off times are between 8 and 9am, with collections between 4 and 4:45pm – please follow the day camps signs to the parking area. Our post code is LA12 8BD. Please ensure you bring your ID!
Can someone else pick up or drop off my child?: Yes. During the booking process we asked for a list of every trusted person who can collect and drop off your child. Each morning the adult dropping off will be asked who is collecting your child that day. For any changes since the booking process, please email us.
What does a typical day look like?: typical day consists of 6 hours of fun activities, 3 hours in the morning and 3 hours in the afternoon with a break for a hearty hot lunch. Sessions include water activities, a journey or a walk, and height activities, which could include climbing and ropes. We also mix it up with nature-based sessions, games, arts and crafts and problem solving.
Does my child need to be able to swim for water activities?: No. All children wear buoyancy aids while on the water, and do not need to be able to swim to take part. However, we do recommend your child feels confident around the water.
How do you help a child settle into a holiday day camp?: We completely understand how a new environment with new faces can unnerve some children. Our staff have supported scores of new children to settle into our camp for over 90 years. If you have concerns about settling your child into camp, please contact us and we will discuss how best to make the settling in period really positive.
What happens if my child doesn’t want to take part in an activity?: Our approach is all about gentle encouragement. We use a “challenge by choice” approach where children are supported to join in at their own pace. While campers must remain with their activity group for safety and supervision, if your child doesn’t feel ready for an activity , our instructors will help them stay involved in a way that feels comfortable – whether that’s cheering on their friends or helping with equipment. There’s always a fun way to stay included and finish a day having enjoyed their activity, no matter how they take part.
Can my child join a group if they are the wrong age?: Sorry, no. Our programmes are carefully curated to match children’s age and their stage of development, ensuring activities are safe, enjoyable and the right level of challenge. For this reason, children need to be within the specified age range to join a course.
Can my child be with their friends?: During the booking process we asked if your child had a friend (the same age) that they would like to be with. We do try our best to accommodate these requests, but sometimes it’s not always possible.
How safe are your holiday day camps?: Very! You’re in safe hands with us. We regularly safety check all of our activities and our experienced team is fully qualified to keep every session safe and enjoyable. We have been organising and delivering safe outdoor learning experiences for over 90 years. Over this time, we have helped more than one million young people achieve more than they ever thought possible.

My 3 children have had the most amazing time. They have made new friends and conquered some of their fears. Thank you so much for caring and giving them an amazing experience. We hope to come back next year!

Day Camp Parent

My 8 year old daughter absolutely loved all of it – zipwire, raft building, canoeing, low ropes (the bog is still there!) and some great new activities. I loved memory lane and the staff were so welcoming. The day camp staff are as enthusiastic and brilliant as ever. She's declared that she will work at Lakeside when she's older and we are back for more in a few weeks. Thank you Lakeside and all those involved for old and new memories

Parent & Previous Instructor

When I left YMCA, I felt sad that my packed week of fun was over but I also felt happy that I had pushed myself out of my comfort zone and learnt new skills. I hope to come back next summer to enjoy everything all over again!

Day Camper, 11 years old

My daughter has had a lovely time and has had the opportunity to take part in many activities that she wouldn’t ever have had the chance to. Thank you.

Day Camp Parent