Children will never have a dull moment on family holidays again as Island Hideaway at Dhonakulhi Maldives Spa & Resort announces the exciting launch of their new Junior Certification Programmes.

We all know that children need adventure, intrigue and fun to keep them entertained over the school break and these Junior Certification Programmes are just the ticket to keep them busy while the adults enjoy a well deserved break on palm-fringed sands, cocktail in hand.

The programmes aim to provide children with an appreciation of the world around them, incorporating fun with a learning and educational experience. The certificates they can undertake include:

Young Marine Biologist: This course begins at Island Hideaway's Meridis Dive Centre with a briefing about the importance of preserving the environment and marine life. The group will spend time observing the coral and how to protect it from damage by humans. The group will discuss their findings over a mug of hot chocolate and will receive a certificate for observing and learning the critical aspects of marine life in the Maldives.

Young Environmentalist: The course begins with a brief introduction and insight to the various types of flora, fauna and wildlife in the Maldives, followed by an exploration across the island discovering, foraging and monitoring the island's natural environment. On arrival back to camp a certificate is presented to each member of the group for appreciating and understanding the key elements of environmental preservation.

Young chef's certificate: This course will begin with an important health and hygiene check, followed by a trip to the Island Hideaway's Bakery where the group will create a delicious chocolate cake. Children are also taught to prepare Sushi and Sashimi whilst the cake bakes in the oven. The meal is served to parents in the restaurant at dinner and the chef will award the children with a certificate for mastering the art of cake making.

Island Hideaway is a luxury boutique 43-villa retreat situated on the privately-owned island of Dhonakulhi in Haa Alifu Atoll, North Maldives. Each villa is set on the beach cocooned in the lush greenery with endless views of the Indian Ocean. Designed as an intimate resort with exceptional attention to detail, each villa has been carefully designed to maximize on its surroundings using natural tones and textures, blending Maldivian style and contemporary design, ensuring that every comfort is at your fingertips – Rustic luxury at its finest.

While you are there, do as little or as much as you like - enjoy fine dining in one of the two restaurants, treat yourself from head to toe at The Hideaway Spa by Mandara Spa, discover the ocean diving with Meridis, try out the water-sports, pump away at the gym, tennis and badminton courts and swimming pools. There is also a state-of-the-art marina where you can hire a traditional sailing Dhow and explore the neighbouring islands.

A 7-night break starts at £3,970 per family and 14 nights from £6,150 per family.

For more information on Island Hideaway, please visit www.island-hideaway.com or to make a booking visit www.elegantresorts.co.uk .

These offers are based on 2 adults and 2 children under 11 years old sharing and include accommodation in a Funa Pavilion on a B&B basis, return economy flights with Emirates, transfers by plane and speedboat. (Valid from 01 April–21 December 2008 inclusive, based on 02 June 2008 departure)