Charlton courses for kids

The start of spring usually coincides with an improvement in the weather, and that would be perfect for the hundreds of youngsters due to join Charlton's next series of holiday courses over Easter.

Harry Arter was spotted by Charlton coaches on a community course

The dates of the next sessions have now been announced, with no fewer than 37 courses taking place over three weeks across Bexley, Greenwich and Kent.

Thanks to Charlton Community Scheme Solutions, children from five to 15 years old will be able to enjoy specialist coaching and the chance to play football under qualified coaches from March 31st to April 18th.

And not only will every youngster be presented with a certificate of attendance as well as a Charlton goodie bag upon completing the programme, there are many more chances to scoop prizes - and perhaps even the opportunity to meet and question one of the club's first-team stars.

Svetoslav Todorov, Kelly Youga and Cory Gibbs were among those to meet youngsters at some of the sessions held during February half-term, when they watched children play football, passed on coaching tips and answered questions about the lifestyles of footballers.

And Harry Arter, a young midfielder who made his first-team debut this season after first being spotted by Charlton coaches on a community course, also returned to see if anyone could follow in his footsteps.

Football co-ordinator Sean Daly said: "It's great for the children to see their football heroes, and the players give us good support by spending time signing autographs and watching the children playing football."

The latest ever-popular sessions, spread over five days or less, cater for everyone, including girls-only and specialised disability sessions.

Full details of the planned Easter schedule are available below and by calling 020-8850 2866.

And parents are being urged to book places quickly by community director Jason Morgan, who said: "Not only can youngsters potentially can take their first steps on a future football career by attending our football courses, they will also have a good time in the process.

"We cater for children of all abilities, and we concentrate on everyone fun.

"There are lots of sessions, so there is plenty of choice, but it is still important that parents book as early as possible to make sure they secure the course they want."

The courses run between 10am-3pm unless otherwise stated. Call 020-8850 2866 for more information or click here to download an application form.

To view the courses in full click here.