The school half-term holidays are with us and the weather looks set to be decidedly dicey, but for parents in York looking for ways to occupy their children there is still plenty to do.

Education reporter Haydn Lewis takes a look at what's on offer across the city during this week.

FINDING things for York youngsters to do this half-term break could not be easier. City of York Council has pulled out the stops and come up with a whole host of activities - both indoor and outdoor - with lots of ideas and things to do for five to 18-year-olds and their families.

Fun-packed activities for the half-term holidays include a photography course and competition at Rowntree Park; the return of Compost The Musical at West Bank Park; and arts and craft events at Art Space and York Art Gallery.

A wide range of out-of-school clubs across the city also provide Ofsted registered full-day care, with different activities each day to suit a wide range of interests, including drama, crafts, sports and trips.

Here is a list of just some of the activities on offer.

Half-Term Fun For Under-Sevens

Age: two to seven years. £17 per day or £7.50 half day. Fulford Pre-School welcomes children to come and join it for fantastic themed play weeks, including outdoor activities from parachute games to sport and much more. Venue: Fulford Pre-School. Dates: Runs until Friday. Time: 8am to 4.30pm

Hempland Out-Of-School Club

Age: five to 11 years. £16 for a full day or £9 for a half day. Join in with arts, sports, cooking and team games. This is a friendly kids' club with dedicated staff to help make the holidays enjoyable. Venue: Hempland Kids Club, Bad Bargain Lane, York. To book, phone 01904 415946.

Dates: Runs until Friday. Time: 8am to 6pm

Holiday Trampoline Course

Age: Six to nine years. A chance for youngsters to try their skills on the trampoline. They will need to book early as this is a very popular activity. Recommended clothing is long-sleeved top, tracksuit bottoms and socks (not toe socks). Please ensure long hair is tied back and jewellery removed. Venue: Oaklands, Cornlands Road, Acomb, York. To book, phone Oaklands on 01904 552424. Dates: Runs until tomorrow. Time: 3.30pm to 4.30pm.

Holiday Trampoline Course

Age: Ten to 13 years. A chance for youngsters to try their skills on the trampoline. They will need to book early as this is a very popular activity. Recommended clothing is long sleeved top, tracksuit bottoms and socks (not toe socks). Please ensure long hair is tied back and jewellery removed. Venue: Oaklands, Cornlands Road, Acomb, York. To book, phone Oaklands on 01904 552424 Dates: Runs until tomorrow. Time: 2.30pm to 3.30pm.

Junior Competent Climbing

Age: 14 to 17 years. Junior members can come and climb during the holidays for only £2.10. They must be members and competent climbers. Venue: Oaklands, Cornlands Road, Acomb, York. To book, phone Oaklands on 01904 552424.

Dates: Runs until Friday. Time: 9am to 5pm.

Further details of these and other activities going on in the city can be found in the council's School's Out guide, copies of which are distributed through schools, but are also available from council receptions, libraries and leisure centres.