We are nearly a month into 2026, and if the first few weeks are anything to go by, this is going to be a fantastic year for youth sport in Sunderland.
At North East Sport (NESport), we see firsthand the impact that staying active has on young people. Whether it’s scoring a first goal in our weekly development centres or making a new best friend at our holiday camps, sport provides the building blocks for a happy childhood.
But for parents, choosing the right club or camp can be a challenge. You want somewhere safe, professional, and fun. Here is why joining the NESport family is the best decision you can make for your child this year.
Weekly Football: Building Skills for Life
Our weekly football programme isn’t just about finding the next Premier League superstar (though we have plenty of talent!). It is about developing the person behind the player.
With sessions running from Monday to Saturday at Monkwearmouth Academy, we cater to everyone from Toddlers (Ages 2-4) right up to Year 7.
Why join our weekly sessions?
- Professional Coaching: Our team, including our new UEFA B Head of Football Josh Akal, are fully qualified, DBS checked, and dedicated to player development.
- Confidence Booster: We create a no-pressure environment where children feel safe to try new skills without fear of making mistakes.
- Pathways: We have a clear route from our fun “turn up and play” sessions into our competitive teams.
Holiday Camps: The Ultimate Half Term Experience
School holidays can be a juggling act for parents. You want your children to be safe and entertained, but you also need flexibility. That is where our Holiday Camps come in.
Returning this February Half Term, our camps are designed to be a “digital detox”—getting kids off screens and into the fresh air.
More Than Just Football
While we love the beautiful game, our camps offer a huge variety of activities to keep every child engaged:
- 🎨 Creative Arts & Crafts
- 🌳 Nature Walks & Scavenger Hunts
- 🏆 Team Games & Challenges
Supporting Working Families
We know the cost of living is a concern for everyone. As a Community Interest Company, we are proud to offer extra support thanks to funding from the James Knott Trust:
- ✅ FREE Breakfast Club: Fueling the kids for the day ahead.
- ✅ FREE Early Drop-off & Late Pick-up: Helping you manage the work-life balance.
North East Sport is a not-for-profit organisation. This means every session you book reinvests directly into the Sunderland community.
When your child puts on that Deep Blue kit, they become part of a club that cares. We are here to ensure that every young person, regardless of their background or ability, has the chance to be Happy, Healthy, and Hopeful.
Whether you are looking for a regular Monday night training session or a fun-filled week during the school holidays, our doors are open.
Come and see why 2026 is shaping up to be our biggest year yet.
Ready to get active?
- ⚽️ Join a Team
- 📅 Book February Camp
Questions? Email us at support@northeastsport.co.uk