A popular Isle of Wight holiday club has secured a new permanent base in Ryde – ensuring its future for years to come.
Scallywags Fun Club will relocate to the site of Oakfield CE Primary School following the closure of its former premises at YMCA Winchester House, Shanklin, at the end of this summer.
The move brings to an end an exhaustive search for a new location and will see Scallywags reopen in time for October half term 2025.
Manager Sarah Wherry said:
“The team is incredibly excited and grateful to have found a new home at Oakfield Primary. This move means the club can continue its mission to provide quality childcare for the Island’s children. We look forward to working with the school and becoming a part of the vibrant Ryde community.”
The new location offers a secure and long-term base, while giving children access to one of the largest primary school sites on the Island. Facilities include extensive outdoor play spaces, a huge playing field, exciting play equipment, and a large forest school area.
As in Shanklin, children will still be able to visit the beach thanks to the nearby access lane to Appley Beach.
Headteacher of Oakfield CE Primary, Vikki Reader, said:
“We know how many Island families rely on the holiday club and so we were delighted to be able to offer Scallywags a new home. We are particularly thrilled that so many more children across the Island will get the opportunity to enjoy what our site has to offer.”
Scallywags will continue to cater for children aged 3–18, with a wide range of activities including arts and crafts, sports, imaginative play, baking and more.
Bookings can be made via the Scallywags Fun Club Facebook page, or by contacting Sarah on 07977 709088.
