Imagination Gaming: Learn to Play, Play to Learn

Imagination Gaming is a nationwide company that delivers activity days, learning programmes, and games-based events primarily to schools and community organisations. Their goal is to Engage, Excite, and Educate children of all ages and abilities.

Founded in 2007 by Nigel Scarfe, who himself faced challenges engaging in school, Imagination Gaming focuses on providing fun and expressive activities that stimulate the mind. Offering hundreds of board games, ensuring there is something for everyone regardless of age or ability.

Activities are designed to challenge and entertain children in a non-pressurised environment, supporting social and curriculum skills development.

“Our approach embodies our motto: ‘Learn to Play, Play to Learn,’ with sessions that are mainly tabletop but also include games requiring mild physical activity and motor skills.” Imagination Gaming

Imagination Gaming has been delivering HAF in various regions since its inception in 2021, with activities that are inclusive for all children aged 5 to 16 years, regardless of ability and designed to be both educational and engaging, appealing to local schools and families alike.

Offering an alternative to traditional sports by focusing on what Imagination Gaming call “Mind Sport Activities,” which exercise the brain in a stimulating way. As with all our school and community work, we are highly attuned to SEND requirements. We have a specific range of games suitable for children with autism and ADHD, ensuring everyone can participate and enjoy.

I was particularly nervous this summer holiday because my daughter is going through some challenges with an ASD diagnosis, which caught us all by surprise. She really enjoyed the activities, and it was great for me as it meant I wasn’t spending the whole summer juggling and panicking about whether I was doing enough. Parent

Sessions are tabletop-based but are not static—children are engaged in activities that involve speed and movement, so they’re active without being as physically demanding as sports like football.

Resources go beyond dice games; some activities require quick thinking and movement, making our sessions dynamic and engaging.

“Our HAF activities have had a positive and lasting impact on children, young people, families, and the wider community. By providing engaging, inclusive, and educational activities, we have helped boost confidence, social skills and a sense of community among participants.” Nicola Gray, Imagination Gaming

Children and young people have benefited from developing new skills such as teamwork, strategic thinking, and problem-solving, while also experiencing increased motivation and engagement during the holidays. The programme offers a safe and supportive environment where children with diverse abilities, including those with SEND, can participate fully and enjoy meaningful activities.

“Families appreciate the opportunity for their children to be mentally stimulated during school breaks, often reporting improved well-being and reduced holiday boredom. The wider community benefits include strengthened relationships with local community libraries and increased local networks.

 

The funding from HAF has also enabled us to increase our staffing levels and the programme has given us the opportunity to connect with schools during term-time ” Nicola Gray, Imagination Gaming