Free summer camps launched to support West Lothian families

In partnership with West Lothian Council, West Lothian Leisure (Xcite) has announced the launch of fully funded summer camps at all Xcite venues this July and August for Primary 1 (P1) to Primary 7 (P7) pupils, as part of the charities’ broader commitment to making health and wellbeing more accessible for families and children across West Lothian.

The summer camps, which will take place from 30^th June to 7^th August, will offer structured, inclusive physical activity sessions. Led by qualified Xcite coaches, the camps aim to help children stay active, build confidence, and make new friends during the summer holidays. Activities will range from badminton, basketball, multi-sports, athletics, team building, all delivered in a fun and supportive environment.

The summer camps are generously being supported by four local food suppliers, which means that every child attending has something to eat and drink for free, daily. George Anderson and Son will be donating fresh fruit packs, Kellogg’s are donating cereal bars, Bidfood are donating KP crisps and Soreen bars and A.G Barr are donating bottled drinks.

The importance of West Lothian Leisure’s coaching schools outreach programme was highlighted recently at Seafield Primary School, where pupils enjoyed their most engaging Health Week yet thanks to the charities’ coaching support.

Delivered through the programme, which aims to provide positive pathways for children and young people to reach their potential, West Lothian Leisure was responsible for delivering a day of activities for Seafield Primary’s health week. The day saw every pupil participating in activities including athletics, basketball, team challenges, as well as more novelty sports such as axe throwing, all led by experienced Xcite coaches. The initiative not only promoted physical wellbeing but also fostered teamwork, confidence, and fun across the school community.

Staff reported a noticeable boost in pupil engagement, with increased participation across the board, especially among pupils who are typically more reluctant to take part in physical activities. This inclusive and dynamic approach helped create a welcoming environment where every child felt encouraged to get involved.

Headteacher of Seafield Primary School, Lynne Egan, praised the impact, commenting: “We are grateful for the support of West Lothian Leisure, which enhanced Health Week for our pupils. Thanks to their involvement, the children had the opportunity to discover and enjoy a variety of different sports and activities. Their team brought energy, structure, and a warm, professional approach that got every child involved. Several pupils discovered they were able to perform better than they initially thought. Feedback from the children has been exceptionally positive and they spoke enthusiastically about the axe throwing for days after the event!”

Lorraine Pollock, Sports Development Manager at West Lothian Leisure said: “Our coaching team played an important role in Health Week at Seafield Primary School and we’re so pleased that our involvement has received such positive feedback.

“We know summer can be a challenging time for many families, particularly when it comes to cost and access to quality activities. So we’re delighted to announce the free summer camps that are taking place across all our venues this July and August. Our mission is to remove barriers and support wellbeing from a young age, helping to build a healthier, happier and longer life for every child in West Lothian. We are particularly grateful for the generous donations from George Anderson and Son, Kellogg’s, Bidfood and A.G Barr, which means that every child gets something to eat and drink for free at the camps, daily.”

To find out more about the free summer camps, please visit: www.westlothian.gov.uk/get-into-summer