Game Time 2.0

For years, our Game Time programme has been a cornerstone in Hackney, bringing multi-sports, creative arts, trips, and team challenges to young people aged 5-21.

​With an average of 500 participants annually, we've created a vibrant community where young people can thrive regardless of their circumstances.

Why We've Evolved!
Today, we're proud to announce Game Time 2.0, our refined approach focusing specifically on teenagers aged 13-18. This evolution isn't a departure from our mission—it's a strategic enhancement built on what we've learned works best.

Teenagers: Where Our Impact Shines Brightest
Working with teenagers has consistently been where our strengths as an organisation truly shine.

Here's why:

The Pivotal Teen Years
Adolescence represents a critical window of opportunity. At 13-18, young people are forming their identities, discovering their potential, and making decisions that will shape their futures. Our team has developed particular expertise in connecting with teens during this transformative period, when the right support can have life-changing impact.

Building on Proven Success
Our data and experience have shown that our leadership and mentoring frameworks produce the most significant, measurable outcomes with teenagers. The peer mentoring, goal-setting, and action planning components of our 'Youth Mentoring First' approach resonate powerfully with this age group, who are developmentally ready to take ownership of their growth.

Addressing a Critical Gap
While Hackney offers various programmes for younger children, teenagers—especially those eligible for free school meals or facing additional challenges—often find fewer tailored opportunities. Game Time 2.0 fills this gap, providing structured support precisely when young people are making crucial transitions in their educational and career journeys.

What Game Time 2.0 Offers
Our new Spring Holiday Youth Leadership Programme exemplifies our teen-focused approach:

• Skills with Staying Power: Peer mentoring training, CV building, and leadership development provide concrete tools for future success
• Corporate Connections: 12 hours of one-on-one career mentoring opens doors to professional networks and opportunities
• Developmental Journey: From skills assessment to community challenge to mentoring training, each element builds on the last
• Community Leadership: Participants don't just develop themselves—they become role models equipped to positively influence others

Continuing Our Commitment
This evolution doesn't mean we've forgotten our younger participants. Rather, by focusing our specialised teen programme where we excel most, we can create deeper impact across the community. Many of our Game Time 2.0 participants will become the mentors and leaders who support younger children in other programmes, creating a positive cycle of leadership and growth.

Game Time 2.0 represents our commitment to excellence—concentrating our resources and expertise where we can make the most meaningful difference in young lives. By building on our strengths with teenagers, we're not just running a holiday programme—we're developing the next generation of Hackney's leaders.

Applications for our Spring Holiday Youth Leadership Programme are open now for eligible students aged 13-18 until Friday 4th April 2025.

​Contact us at [email protected] or 07412640172 / 02081588500 for more information.