If you ever needed proof that the Leys can come together and make a difference, summer 2026 was it. 131 brilliant young people, a heroic CDI team, and a community of partners turned one of the hottest summers on record into one of the most meaningful.
From life‑saving first aid with SaveYU, to visits from Oxfordshire Fire & Rescue and Thames Valley Police, to nature adventures with BBOWT, robotics with OAS, dance with Phoebe, pottery with Beatrice, and street awareness with Chris Abeso. Our juniors were educated, inspired and occasionally exhausted (in the best way).
Daily sports, forest school, cookery, arts, crafts, games and nature walks kept spirits high, while weekly trips to the Leys Pool kept temperatures low. Add in bowling, Gravity Golf, Laser Quest and the legendary intergenerational trip to Cotswold Wildlife Park, where youths and our “recycled teenagers” joined forces in search of the Red Panda… and you’ve got a summer for the history books.
What Families Told Us
- “CDI feels like my child’s second home.”
- “The hot meals and care were a lifesaver for us.”
- “My son came back teaching us CPR — incredible.”
- “The seniors and juniors together… magical.”
Thank You to Our Partners
To our funders – HAF, Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford City Council, and our crucial local supporters including Peabody and Morgan Sindall . Your kindness is immeasurable. Thank you also to Windale School and Peabody for the generous use of your facilities. And to every ‘Supportive Partner’, Organisation, Volunteer and Staff member who gave time, energy and heart: you are the reason these memories exist.
Why This Matters
In a socially challenged area like the Leys, this programme is more than summer fun – it’s nourishment, safety, opportunity and hope. It strengthens families, builds confidence, connects generations and shows young people that their community believes in them.
Here’s to everyone who helped create a summer of joy, learning and belonging. Together, we made a difference.
THANK YOU
