School Holiday Programs in Sydney: The Best for Winter 2025
- Kids
Family
All Ages
The winter school holidays are almost here, and with crisp days and plenty of free time ahead, now’s the perfect moment to start planning some fun and engaging activities for the kids.
If you're looking to keep them entertained, inspired, and off screens for a little while, Sydney has an amazing lineup of school holiday programs ready to go. From hands-on workshops and outdoor adventures to creative classes and cultural experiences, there’s something to suit every child’s interests.
Whether your little ones are into science, art, sport, nature, or performance, you’ll find exciting programs running at both iconic and lesser-known locations across the city. Designed to stimulate young minds and burn off energy, these holiday programs are a fantastic way to keep boredom at bay and make the most of the break.
The Best School Holiday Programs in Sydney
1. Open Academy at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music
The Sydney Conservatorium of Music will be running a series of Open Academy School Holiday Workshops in their historic Macquarie Street buildings during the school holidays.
Based on the Orff-Schulwerk approach, and the Dalcroze and Kodaly methods, children will be immersed in a broad range of musical activities including singing, imitation, movement, playing percussion instruments, improvisation, story-telling, and guided listening. The Kids at the Con program is designed for little music lovers from 3 to 10 years old to explore creative music-making in small group activities, to help them engage with the exciting world of music and encourage the development of artistic expression.
Where: Sydney Conservatorium of Music, University of Sydney, Macquarie Street
When: Tuesday 15 - Friday 18 July 2025
Cost: $40 - $105 pp
2. Marian Street Theatre for Young People
Dive into a world of drama queens and kings with the Marian Street Theatre for Young People Holiday Workshops! Students from Kindergarten to Year 12 will be immersed in an engaging theatrical experience while they learn valuable skills and build their confidence on stage.
Marian Street Theatre courses offer a comprehensive theatre education for budding performers to explore acting skills like characterisation, listening, and reacting. They will learn storytelling techniques such as story arc and story building; delve into stagecraft, collaboration, and ensemble building, and be guided on vocal techniques. They will also be introduced to public speaking, stage physicality and movement, all while fostering confidence in a fun, safe environment.
Where: Killara - St Martin's Church, 9B Arnold Street
Hornsby - Storey Park Community Centre, 12 Old Berowra Road
When: Monday 7 - Friday 18 July 2025
Cost: $140 - $235 per child
3. Step Back In Time at Museums of History NSW
Looking for educational and screen-free fun these school holidays? Museums of History NSW offers fantastic programs at Elizabeth Farm and Vaucluse House, plus FREE creative workshops at the Museum Of Sydney, that are perfect for getting kids off screens and experiencing something new this winter.
History gets hands-on at the immersive holiday programs at the Museums of History NSW. At History Detectives at Elizabeth Farm & Vaucluse House, kids can dress up, hunt for clues, and solve mysteries inside two of Sydney’s most fascinating heritage homes. Led by Gumbaynggirr artist Sancia Ridgeway, the free First Nations creative workshops at the Museum of Sydney explore traditional weaving, yarn-spinning, and cultural knowledge.
Perfect for curious minds and creative spirits, these engaging and interactive programs are a great way to keep kids engaged - and learning - this winter!
Where: Elizabeth Farm - 70 Alice Street, Rosehill
Vaucluse House - Wentworth Road, Vaucluse
Museum of Sydney, Corner Phillip and Bridge Streets, Sydney
When: Select dates from 7 - 18 July 2025
Cost: History Kids - General $15; Member $12
Creative First Nations Workshops - FREE
4. City Of Sydney: Fast-track School Holiday Intensive Swimming
Dive into excitement these school holidays with City of Sydney's Fast Track School Holiday Intensive Swimming Program, available at select City of Sydney pools!
It's a fantastic opportunity for your child to quickly enhance their swimming skills and gain confidence in the water. The program offers daily 30-minute lessons from Monday to Friday, and the chance to learn skills like diving, specific strokes and turns.
Learning to swim is essential at all levels and ages. Book now!
Where: Cook and Phillip Park Pool
Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre
Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre
Prince Alfred Park Pool
When: Monday 7 - Friday 18 July 2025
Cost: Contact your nearest centre for pricing details
5. Speaking Schools Australasia Winter School Holiday Workshops
Are you looking for a fun and engaging class to help your kids find their voice and build their confidence? Speaking Schools Australasia can help!
Speaking Schools are a two-time local business awards recipient and has helped over 25,000+ students improve their speaking skills and develop their confidence. Their school holiday programs cater to kids from Kindy up to Year 10 at convenient locations in Parramatta, North Sydney, Burwood, Wahroonga, and online. With a welcoming environment, an emphasis on small classes, and plenty of personal feedback from expert coaches, SSA aim to help every student bring their words to life.
Where: Bella Vista, North Sydney, Wahroonga, Burwood, North Parramatta and Online
When: 7 - 11 July and 14 - 18 July 2025
Cost: From $250 per child | See Speaking Schools Australasia for costs.
For more information, visit Speaking Schools Australasia or contact Mark on 0404 107 372 or at contact@speakingschools.
6. Manchester City Football School Holiday Clinics
Waverley College is excited to offer students in Years 3 to 6 from any school the chance to learn the art of 'the beautiful game' just like the pros, with training straight from the Manchester City playbook!
Whether you're an experienced player or just getting started, the Manchester City Football School Holiday Clinics at Waverley College are your time to shine on the pitch. These prestigious camps are open to boys and girls of all skill levels, providing a safe, fun, and authentic environment that mirrors the training of Manchester City's top players. Guided by world-class coaches, you'll master the ball, play with flair, dominate the game, and take your football skills to new heights.
Where: Waverley College Futsal Court and Queens Park
When: Tuesday 1 - Thursday 8 July 2025 | 9 am - 3 pm
Cost: $200 pp for a 2-day camp
7. Sydney FC School Holiday Clinics
Looking for a school holiday activity that’s all about energy, excitement and football fun? Sydney FC’s Holiday Clinics are back this winter and they’re kicking goals already, with three locations sold out!
Designed for kids aged 5 to 13, these action-packed clinics run across Sydney and Wollongong, offering expert coaching, confidence-building drills, and loads of team spirit. Kids can sharpen their skills, meet Sydney FC A-League players, and even score some gear including a training kit, cap and Junior Membership.
Places are limited and filling fast, so don’t miss out—secure your child’s spot today!
Where: Locations across Sydney and Wollongong
When: Monday 7 - Friday 18 July 2025
Cost: $310 (including new kit) | $280 (excluding new kit)
8. Centennial Equestrian School Holidays Pony Camp
Get ready for an exciting school holiday experience at Centennial Equestrian! Their School Holiday Pony Camp is now open for bookings. Perfect for beginner to intermediate riders, the camp offers a fun, safe, and nurturing environment. Each day includes two riding lessons, hands-on horse care, interactive activities such as arts and crafts, and plenty of fun and games. Small, friendly groups (max 8 children) are designed to build your child's confidence and skills while they make new connections, both horsey and human. The camp runs across three weeks in January, with flexible options to attend single or multiple days. Book early to secure your spot – spaces are limited!
Where: Centennial Equestrian, 114-120 Lang Rd, Moore Park
When: Monday 7 - Thursday 17 July 2025
Cost: From
More Winter Activities
Fruit Picking in Sydney: Your Seasonal Guide
The Best Bush Walks in Sydney for Adventurous Families
Our Favourite Picnic Spots in Sydney
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