1. Belfast: The European City of Sport 2026– Safe space
This month is a big deal because Belfast has officially kicked off its year as the European City of Sport.
- The “Try-It” Initiative: MR Sports and other local community partners are part of a city-wide push to get kids into “emerging” sports. While they do the classics (Football/Rugby), look out for sessions this month that include Parkour and Basketball as part of the 2026 celebration.
- GLL Integration: MR Sports often works in tandem with local leisure centres. This month, there are extra “Wildlife Wellbeing Walks” and community festivals happening in the parks where their camps usually run.2. The “Choose Your Zone” SysteA fun fact about how MR Sports runs their camps (like the ones wrapping up at St Michael’s and Blessed Trinity this month) is their “Zone” system. Instead of being stuck in one sport all day, kids get to “pivot”:
- The Creative Zone: For kids who need a break from running, they have high-end Arts & Crafts (not just coloring, but actual building/design).
- The Performance Zone: This month has seen a surge in their Dance & Drama tracks, which usually end with a “mini-showcase” on the final day of the camp.3. New After-School “Themes”
With the new term starting this week (April 15–22), the after-school clubs at schools like Abbots Cross and Whiteabbey have shifted their focus:
- The “Healthy Shout” Goal: They’ve introduced a new energetic “No Screens” policy where the focus is on vocal communication and leadership—basically teaching kids how to be loud and confident team leaders on the pitch.
- Instrumental Tie-ins: Specifically at Abbots Cross, they’ve been coordinating with the school’s vibrant music program, meaning you might see sports drills set to rhythm and beat-counting!4. Upcoming “Big” Events
If you’re looking for things to watch or do alongside the MR Sports programs:
Pro-Tip: If you are booking for the May Bank Holiday weekend, spots usually fill up by the last week of April. Check their portal on Monday morning for any last-minute cancellations!
It looks like MR Sports is having a very busy April with their 2026 Easter Camps and the kickoff of their new term for after-school clubs.
Since we are currently in late April, here is the breakdown of what is happening now and what has just wrapped up:
Easter Holiday Camps (April 2026)
The holiday camps have been the main focus for the first half of the month. These camps allow kids (ages 4–13) to choose between Football, Dance & Drama, Arts & Crafts, or Gymnastics throughout the day.
While many dates have already passed, here were the major Belfast and surrounding area sessions for this month:
- St Michael’s PS (Ravenhill Rd): April 3 & April 7–10
- Blessed Trinity College (Antrim Rd): Major hub for Easter activity sessions.
- Forth River PS: Sessions ran through April 10.
- Whiteabbey PS: April 8–10.
- Killinchy PS: Extended sessions included April 13–14.
After-School Clubs (Current & Ongoing)
As schools returned from the Easter break, the Spring/Summer Term of after-school clubs has officially started.
- Abbots Cross Primary: A new block of 11 sessions began on Wednesday, April 15.
- Football focus: Most current clubs are focusing on outdoor skills like dribbling, passing, and mini-matches now that the weather is (hopefully) improving.
- Booking Status: If you are looking to get a child in for the remainder of the month, most sessions allow booking until 4 hours before the start time, provided there is space.
Quick Facts for Parents
- Standard Times: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (for camps).
- Extras: Many locations offer a Breakfast Club (from 8:15 AM) or Late Pick-up (until 5:00 PM).
- Cost: Daily rates usually start around £16.50, with weekly rates at £75.
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