Published: Wednesday, 15 July 2026

Starting next week, young people in Oxford will be able to take part in a range of free summer activities through Oxford City Council's Youth Ambition programme. 

Running from Friday 24 July until Friday 21 August, the four-week summer programme is open to young people aged 11 to 17 and offers a wide range of activities including: 

  • Creative arts
  • Sports and games
  • Gaming
  • Music
  • Swimming
  • Ice skating
  • Cooking activities
  • Team challenges 

The programme includes daytime youth clubs in Littlemore and Northway, evening sessions at Leys Youth Hub, and Multi Sports at Leys Pool & Leisure Centre on Fridays, giving young people plenty of free opportunities to get involved throughout the summer. 

Extended youth club sessions (Monday-Thursday, 12pm-4pm) 

On Mondays and Thursdays, Youth Ambition will run extended youth club sessions from 12pm-4pm in Littlemore and Northway.

The sessions are open to young people age 11-17. Participation in activities is always optional, and young people are welcome to join in as much or as little as they like. They can also come along to relax, socialise and spend time with friends in a safe and supportive environment. 

Registration in advance is recommended, however is not essential. Young people will be provided with a free lunch, although they are also welcome to bring their own food. 

Multi sports sessions (Friday, 3pm-4.30pm and 4.30pm-6pm) 

On Fridays, the team will run football and basketball sessions at Leys Pool & Leisure Centre from 3pm to 4.30pm for ages 11-14, and 4.30-6pm for ages 15-17.  

No booking is required to attend these sessions.  

Leys Youth Hub (Monday-Wednesday, 5pm-7pm, and Friday, 3pm-6pm) 

On Mondays-Wednesdays from 5pm-7pm, and on Fridays from 3pm-6pm, Leys Youth Hub in Leys Pool & Leisure Centre will be open for those aged 11-17.  

The Youth Hub, which opened last Autumn offers free welcoming sessions for young people. The space, which was designed in collaboration with local young people, includes a social area, quiet rooms, a kitchen, music and digital space, and a climbing wall. Activities include creative writing, baking, art, music, nails and beauty, film nights, games, rock climbing, cooking, and more.   

No booking is required to attend these sessions, and snacks are included. 

Comment 

"With the cost of childcare and summer entertainment continuing to rise, Youth Ambition's summer programme offers young people the chance to enjoy a wide range of free activities throughout the holidays. Whether they want to be creative, get active, learn new skills or simply spend time with friends, there is something for everyone. The programme provides a safe, welcoming and supportive environment where young people can have fun and build confidence over the summer." 

Councillor Mark Lygo, Cabinet Member for a Healthy, Fairer Oxford 

More information on the programme and how to book can be found at on the Youth Ambition webpage

Was this webpage helpful?