JEWISH youth leaders who spent their summer holidays at play scheme are doing their bit by keeping the next generation entertained.

Parents have been sending their children to Summerworld at the Redbridge Jewish Community Centre in Clayhall for over 35 years.

Over 150 four to 11-year-olds turned up at the centre in Woodford Bridge Road for the first week of the summer holidays, where they were looked after by a team of staff and 50 youth leaders aged between 14 and 18.

Trained through Jewish Care’s Motivation, Inspiration, Knowledge and Education (MIKE) programme, many of the teenagers went to Summercare themselves and decided they wanted to give something back.

MIKE volunteer and group leader Katie Rich, 19, said: “It’s great getting involved with the kids and making sure they have a good summer.

“There’s loads of activities and it’s a great team. We always get new volunteers and it’s lovely to see them growing into their leadership roles.”

Parents Rochelle and Simon Power added: “We send our daughter to Summerworld because we know she can’t wait to run through the door with a great big smile on her face.

“We know she’s in a friendly, safe environment where we know she’s enriching her cultural background.”

Mother Amy Harman agreed, saying: “My son has been able to make more friends socially.

“He feels comfortable to be himself. The staff are great and make the parents feel confident to leave their kids here.”

The community centre was rated outstanding by Ofsted when it was last inspected in 2015 and leaders say they are hoping for another “outstanding” summer this year.

For more information call 020 8551 0017 or email rjccyouth@jcare.org