CHILDREN can get up close and personal with reptiles during special educational sessions running over the festive break.

The Reptile Academy is running an expanded version of its local authority-funded Reptile Ranger Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) Programme.

Funded by Dorset Council, Hampshire County Council, and the Department for Education, in collaboration with Dorset’s HelpAndKindness and Hampshire’s Connect4Communities, the initiative is providing 136 free places for children aged between eight and 16 this winter — 96 for Dorset families and 40 for Hampshire families – alongside 24 additional fee-paying places for children not eligible for HAF or residing outside the areas.

Running from December 20 to January 4, the festive HAF sessions will take place at The Reptile Academy, at Manor Farm, Gussage St Michael, near Blandford.

Organisers said they offer “a unique, educational, and heartwarming holiday experience where children can meet, handle, and learn about reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment”.

Each day includes a hot Christmas-themed lunch, with vegetarian, vegan, religious and allergen-friendly alternatives, plus healthy snacks and drinks.

“And rumour has it that a very special guest from the North Pole may stop by during the celebrations,” a spokesperson said.

Children will be able to enjoy activities including animal handling and encounters with snakes, lizards, tortoises, frogs, and some invertebrates, as well as science sessions exploring reptile biology and ecosystems, animal enrichment projects, outdoor activities and physical play, and diet and nutrition.

Every participant will receive an accredited Certificate of Participation, recognising their learning, contribution, and teamwork throughout the programme.

The Reptile Academy is running sessions for children over the Christmas break

Dr Jake Weeks, founder and volunteer director of The Reptile Academy, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have expanded the Reptile Ranger HAF Programme across both Dorset and Hampshire this winter.

“It’s great to see that with increasing uptake and publicity that more organisations want to bring some of The Reptile Academy’s offerings to people in their areas.

“We had a great uptake from Hampshire children in Easter and summer 2025 who joined on a fee-paying basis, but many are now entitled to HAF funding now we are on the Hampshire scheme in addition to Dorset.

“For many families, the school holidays can be a challenging time — and we want to make sure that every child, regardless of background, has the chance to enjoy meaningful experiences, learn new skills, and share in the magic of the season.

“Our sessions offer not only a hot, nutritious meal every day but also the chance to connect with nature, animals, and new friends.

“The enthusiasm and joy we see from the children make HAF one of the highlight services of our year and we’re especially looking forward to the Christmas delivery period.”

People are encouraged to contact the group for details – and to find out if their child may qualify for free access to the activities. For more details, and to apply, visit www.reptileacademy.co.uk/haf.