Xplore

Xplore is a dynamic and engaging healthy lifestyle programme that supports children, young people, and their families in building healthier habits and becoming more active. The programme provides a fun, welcoming, and safe environment where participants can learn practical tips on topics such as healthy eating and physical activity. Enabling children and families to make better life choices for their health in the future.

Designed for children and young people aged 5-17, Xplore includes interactive workshops and enjoyable physical activity sessions tailored to different age groups.

This programme is completely free and is delivered at Better leisure centres across Hillingdon and community venues. Ongoing support is offered to families after completion to help them maintain their healthy lifestyle changes.

Referrals

Referrals can be made online by healthcare professionals, schools, or by parents/guardians through our online Referral Portal using the button below.

If you would like more information about our programmes or have any questions, please contact us at Healthwise.Hillingdon@gll.org  

 

Referral Portal

Eligibility Criteria

The programme is aimed at children and young people aged 5-17 who:

  • Attend a school, sixth form, or FE within the borough 
  • Live in the borough of Hillingdon and/or 
  • Are registered with a Hillingdon GP 
  • Have no complex needs or other underlying conditions
  • For Junior Gym, above 91st percentile

Programme options

The service offers a range of programmes for children and young people depending on their age and needs:

Children and Families Programme (for children aged 5-11 years)

This will take place at a Better leisure centre or a participating school within Hillingdon and will run over 8 weeks with each weekly session lasting for 1 hour.

Each session covers a specific topic, which includes fun activities and games for children and facilitated discussions for parents/carers, who are required to attend each session.

Every child that completes the programme will receive a pre-loaded £20 membership card to spend how they wish at our Better leisure centres in the Borough.

Adolescent programme (for children aged 11-13 years)

There are two pathways available for this age group:

  • Family-based Xplore programme (8 weeks)
  • Junior Gym programme (12 weeks)

Children and young people attending the family-based Xplore programme do not need to be above a healthy weight. This programme takes place at a Better leisure centre, community venue, or participating school within Hillingdon and runs over 8 weeks, with one 1-hour session each week.

Children and young people accessing the Junior Gym programme must meet the full Xplore eligibility criteria, regardless of age. Participants on the programme may attend sessions without an adult. However, parents/carers are required to attend the initial and last assessment to complete the necessary paperwork. 

All participants who complete the Family-based Xplore programme will receive a pre-loaded £20 membership card to spend at Better leisure centres across the Borough. Those who opt for the Junior Gym option will receive a 3-month gym membership to use for the duration of the programme.

Young Adults Programme (for young people aged 14-17 years)

Our young adults programme will be based at our Better leisure centres, or a participating community venue across Hillingdon and will run over 12 weeks. Young people will have access to a range of physical activities, including supervised gym sessions.

Parents/carers are required to attend the first and last session to complete the paperwork.

All young people will receive a 3-month membership to use for the duration of the programme.

Upcoming Programmes

Family (5-11 years)

Xplore @ Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Complex

Free 4-week programme every Tuesday in August.

10am-11am for 5-8 year olds, 11am-12pm for 9-11 year olds.

This family-based programme brings parents and children together to build healthy habits.

You must register and book before attending.

Register now

BOOK NOW

 

Current Programmes

Family (5-11 years)

Xplore @ Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Complex

Every Tuesday at 4pm-5pm

This family-based programme brings parents and children together to build healthy habits.

Register your interest

BOOK NOW

Junior Gym sessions 

Our Junior Gym sessions have been created specifically for young people aged 11-17 to support them in building confidence, staying active and learning how to use gym equipment safely and responsibly in a supportive environment.

As part of the Xplore programme, participants accessing the Junior Gym pathway must meet the full Xplore eligibility criteria, regardless of age.

Sessions take place across:

  • Hillingdon Sports and Leisure Complex
  • Botwell Green Leisure Centre
  • Highgrove Pool and Fitness Centre
  • Platinum Jubilee Leisure Centre                                     

Parents/carers are required to attend the first and last session to complete registration and consent paperwork.

BOOK HERE

Xplore Online Programme (for children aged 5–11 years)

Our online programme runs over 6 weeks and is designed to help children and their families build healthier habits from home. Each week includes interactive nutrition workshops and fun family challenges, all delivered virtually by our expert team.

Families can take part from home with engaging videos, fun activities, and easy recipes to try together. Each session offers practical tips and guidance to help families make small, lasting changes to their lifestyle.

Parents or carers are encouraged to join the sessions alongside their children to get the most from the programme. 

 BOOK NOW