About
The story of CPAS Holidays stretches back more than a century and is closely linked to CPAS's wider mission of helping people encounter Jesus.
CPAS Holidays are action-packed Christian holidays for young people aged 8-18, filled with adventure, friendship and opportunities to explore life’s big questions. Open to everyone, whatever their background, beliefs, or circumstances, each holiday creates a welcoming environment where young people can be themselves, try new things and build lasting friendships.
Alongside the fun, young people are invited to discover more about Jesus and explore how the Bible’s promises, challenges, and wisdom connect with everyday life. All Holidays are supported by a team of caring and enthusiastic leaders.
Giving every child a chance to explore Jesus
History
With roots stretching back to the Fresh Air Fund holidays of the 1890s and residential camps beginning in 1924, CPAS remains committed to opening doors for the next generation to meet Jesus.
Taking the Gospel to Growing Cities
CPAS was founded in 1836 in response to the rapid urbanisation of Britain during the Industrial Revolution. Its mission was to equip churches to reach new communities with the gospel. As the organisation grew, it developed initiatives to support children and families living in poverty and challenging circumstances.
By 1899, CPAS was funding seaside and countryside holidays for children from inner-city areas through its Fresh Air Fund, laying the foundations for what would become over a century of holiday ministry.
Fun, Friendship and Faith
In 1924, CPAS began running residential Christian holidays specifically designed for children and young people. These holidays combined adventure, community and Bible teaching, creating opportunities for young people to explore life and faith in Jesus while enjoying a memorable holiday experience.
Camping, Community and the Gospel
During the early decades, holiday leaders pioneered a model of Christian camping and residential holidays that placed relationships and the gospel at its centre. Young people gathered for outdoor adventures, shared activities and Bible teaching in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
The foundations were laid for a ministry that would influence generations of children and young people across the country.
From Camps to a National Network
Following the Second World War, CPAS holidays expanded significantly. New camps and house parties were established across England and Wales, enabling increasing numbers of children to attend each summer.
During this period, holidays operated under a variety of names including Explorer, Pathfinder and CYFA Camps, reflecting the growing breadth of the movement..
Diversifying the Holiday Experience
As the ministry developed, CPAS broadened the range of holidays available. Alongside traditional house party-style camps came activity holidays, sailing ventures, outdoor adventure programmes and creative-focused events.
The aim remained unchanged: helping young people discover Jesus in a context of fun, friendship and community.
A Century of Lives Changed
In 2024, CPAS celebrated 100 years of residential holiday ministry. What began as a small number of pioneering holidays in 1924 had grown into a movement of more than 75 holidays, supported by around 2,000 volunteer leaders and serving 3,500 children and young people each year.
The centenary was marked by a celebration service bringing together former campers, leaders, volunteers and supporters to give thanks for a century of gospel ministry among young people
Supporting Young People Facing Challenges
The modern Falcon Holidays programme developed to ensure that children and young people facing disadvantage or difficult life circumstances could access high-quality holidays and Christian community. Subsidised places and targeted support helped make holidays accessible regardless of background or financial situation.
This commitment reflects CPAS's long-standing desire to ensure every young person has the opportunity to hear about Jesus and experience belonging.