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SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2016 ISSUE 35 FREE Take me home!

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2 Issue 35 www.familiesonline.co.uk In this Issue... 4 News 4 Another summer has flown past! So, it’s time to focus on the new school year in this Back 7 Parenting to School issue. You will also see the region’s best events, activities, clubs, etc, to keep your 10 Musical young families busy right up until the next opportunities issue… when it will be time to count down to Christmas! 12 Education matters Have a great Autumn! 10 17 Clubs and Classes Suzanne Brown, Editor Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield 18 Competitions 19 What’s On - Next Issue: Advertisers: Book now for our Out and About November - December issue. Half Term Call: 07807 352087 20 12 or email: [email protected] before Tuesday 4th October 2016 21 Hallowe’en and Design: Matt Walton Design Bonfire Night Print: Warners Midlands PLC, Manor Lane, Bourne. PE10 9PH Copyright Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield, September 2016. 22 Autumn Theatre ©Families Birmingham is part of a registered trademark. Families® Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Magazine Birmingham are protected by copyright. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publisher and distributors cannot be held Christmas Shows responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents, nor for any consequence. 23 21

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Issue 35 3 News www.familiesonline.co.ukwww.familiesonline.co.uk News All aboard for pirate fun Creature craft for kids The Barber will be going animal-crackers this autumn with a special family day of music, art and craft activities featuring top children’s author and illustrator Simon with Captain Flinn! James and Saint-Saëns’ classic musical suite, Carnival of the Animals on 22.10.16. linn is back! Les Petits Theatre Company Accompanied by a live performance from two pianists and a cellist, Simon will narrate Freturn to the high seas after their hugely the poems while simultaneously painting successful and award winning show Captain Flinn and along to the action – with his illustrations and the Pirate Dinosaurs. projected on screen live as he does them. And children will be able to draw-along too When Flinn, Pearl and Tom are in the middle enough to battle the dangerous dinos and - each will be issued with a sketchbook and of their school play their old nemesis, Mr T the will terrified Tom be back in time for Tea? pencil as they enter the concert hall. T-Rex, appears and kidnaps the children forcing All aboard for a non-stop action packed There will also be storytelling in the gallery them to hunt for the secretive Magic Cutlass; theatrical experience with live music, inspired by the animals in paintings, while a sword that grants the holder any wish. The puppetry and dastardly dinosaurs! youngsters will also be able to make animal children are whisked away for another fantastic Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs 2: The masks to take home. adventure to a world of devious dinosaurs, deep Magic Cutlass, Sunday 30th October, 1.30pm Simon Mayhew will also be available to sign sea dangers and smelly sausages! & 3.30pm books after each of the two performances, Photos: Will fearless Flinn be able to outwit the Town Hall, Birmingham, thsh.co.uk which begin at 11.30am and 2pm. Graham Lewis pirate dinosaurs? Will Pirate Pearl be brave 0121 780 3333 This is the third major event organized in collaboration between the Barber and Busy Parents Network – last year’s hugely popular art and music family day based on Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition won Grab a bargain at a Mum2Mum Market! the Family Arts Festival’s Best Family Event Mum2Mum Markets are nearly new sales which provide a valuable Mere Green Community Centre, award. opportunity for parents to make money selling on nearly new B75 5BT, 2:45pm-4:45pm Booking is essential. Tickets are £5 per outgrown baby clothes and equipment to other families. Buyers Kings Heath Cricket and person per session and can be purchased can purchase quality items at bargain prices. Goods for sale include Sports Club, B14 6DT, via the events section of designer prams, toys, and clothes from newborn to age six. 10am-12pm www.facebook.com/BusyParentsNetwork Two Mum2Mum Markets are taking place on Saturday 10th The event is being September, organised by local mums. sponsored by the local Jo Jingles and Little Ripley Day Nurseries. Jump, Jump, Jump Putting Art at the Admission - £2 on the door, kids free. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk to Rush UK Heart of Learning Great news for adrenalin fanatics! Rush UK Trampoline Let’s Treasure Our Park opens its doors in Avery Dell, Kings Norton, Midlands Treasures Birmingham in October. This year, the annual Heritage Open Days Festival rallies us all to champion our local heritage. We are encouraged to capture ourselves on camera at places we treasure, such as local museums, galleries, theatres, parks and historic sites, and then share them on social media using the hashtag #TreasureYourTreasures. As well as wall-to-wall Why not visit our West Midlands treasures, such as Birmingham trampolines, they offer: Botanical Gardens; Birmingham Back to Backs, Hurst Street; Blakesley Toddler Court with Hall; Sarehole Mill, Birmingham; New Hall Water Mill, Sutton Foam Pit, Toddler Coldfield, or; Packwood House, Solihull? These venues, and many Creche and others, are offering family-friendly tours, talks, treasure hunts, and Toddler sessions arts and crafts activities. for the under-4s. To find out more visit: For older kids there are For teens and adults there are Fitness Our after school Art Club in Solihull, for ages 5-12 www.heritageopendays.org.uk Large Foam Pits, Battle Classes, Rush After Sunset Disco years, is an exciting way of developing communication Thursday 8 – Sunday 11 September Beams, Ninja Warrior Nights, The Rush Boutique, Corporate skills, confidence, self-identity and creativity which are Assault Course, Rock Team Building Events, and Café and so vital to successful learning. Climbing Wall, Wavy free Wifi. Lane, Long Tumble Lanes, We are passionate about 2016 in Solihull by two artists There truly is something for everyone! Trapeze Over Foam, developing the whole child with over 25 years experience Basket Ball Hoop Lane, Check out page 18 to enter Rush UK’s and also recognise that art teaching art. Slack Lines, Total Wipeout, competition to win VIP tickets to their can provide a release from the Look out for our Big Draw event Extreme Dodgeball launch. stresses of modern living! We in October! offer art classes to older children Courts, High Performance rushuk.com, facebook.com/ Artattheheartltd.co.uk, 07772 Arena and Kids Birthday RushUKTrampolinePark, Rush and adults, too. Art at the Heart Ltd was launched in February 319303 Parties. UK B30 3DZ

4 Issue 35 News News All aboard for pirate fun Creature craft for kids The Barber will be going animal-crackers this autumn with a special family day of music, art and craft activities featuring top children’s author and illustrator Simon with Captain Flinn! James and Saint-Saëns’ classic musical suite, Carnival of the Animals on 22.10.16. linn is back! Les Petits Theatre Company Accompanied by a live performance from two pianists and a cellist, Simon will narrate Freturn to the high seas after their hugely the poems while simultaneously painting successful and award winning show Captain Flinn and along to the action – with his illustrations and the Pirate Dinosaurs. projected on screen live as he does them. And children will be able to draw-along too When Flinn, Pearl and Tom are in the middle enough to battle the dangerous dinos and - each will be issued with a sketchbook and of their school play their old nemesis, Mr T the will terrified Tom be back in time for Tea? pencil as they enter the concert hall. T-Rex, appears and kidnaps the children forcing All aboard for a non-stop action packed There will also be storytelling in the gallery them to hunt for the secretive Magic Cutlass; theatrical experience with live music, inspired by the animals in paintings, while a sword that grants the holder any wish. The puppetry and dastardly dinosaurs! youngsters will also be able to make animal children are whisked away for another fantastic Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs 2: The masks to take home. adventure to a world of devious dinosaurs, deep Magic Cutlass, Sunday 30th October, 1.30pm Simon Mayhew will also be available to sign sea dangers and smelly sausages! & 3.30pm books after each of the two performances, Photos: Will fearless Flinn be able to outwit the Town Hall, Birmingham, thsh.co.uk which begin at 11.30am and 2pm. Graham Lewis pirate dinosaurs? Will Pirate Pearl be brave 0121 780 3333 This is the third major event organized in collaboration between the Barber and Busy Parents Network – last year’s hugely popular art and music family day based on Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition won Grab a bargain at a Mum2Mum Market! the Family Arts Festival’s Best Family Event Mum2Mum Markets are nearly new sales which provide a valuable Mere Green Community Centre, award. opportunity for parents to make money selling on nearly new B75 5BT, 2:45pm-4:45pm Booking is essential. Tickets are £5 per outgrown baby clothes and equipment to other families. Buyers Kings Heath Cricket and person per session and can be purchased can purchase quality items at bargain prices. Goods for sale include Sports Club, B14 6DT, via the events section of designer prams, toys, and clothes from newborn to age six. 10am-12pm www.facebook.com/BusyParentsNetwork Two Mum2Mum Markets are taking place on Saturday 10th The event is being September, organised by local mums. sponsored by the local Jo Jingles and Little Ripley Day Nurseries. Jump, Jump, Jump Putting Art at the Admission - £2 on the door, kids free. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk to Rush UK Heart of Learning Great news for adrenalin fanatics! Rush UK Trampoline Let’s Treasure Our Park opens its doors in Avery Dell, Kings Norton, Midlands Treasures Birmingham in October. This year, the annual Heritage Open Days Festival rallies us all to champion our local heritage. We are encouraged to capture ourselves on camera at places we treasure, such as local museums, galleries, theatres, parks and historic sites, and then share them on social media using the hashtag #TreasureYourTreasures. As well as wall-to-wall Why not visit our West Midlands treasures, such as Birmingham trampolines, they offer: Botanical Gardens; Birmingham Back to Backs, Hurst Street; Blakesley Toddler Court with Hall; Sarehole Mill, Birmingham; New Hall Water Mill, Sutton Foam Pit, Toddler Coldfield, or; Packwood House, Solihull? These venues, and many Creche and others, are offering family-friendly tours, talks, treasure hunts, and Toddler sessions arts and crafts activities. for the under-4s. To find out more visit: For older kids there are For teens and adults there are Fitness Our after school Art Club in Solihull, for ages 5-12 www.heritageopendays.org.uk Large Foam Pits, Battle Classes, Rush After Sunset Disco years, is an exciting way of developing communication Thursday 8 – Sunday 11 September Beams, Ninja Warrior Nights, The Rush Boutique, Corporate skills, confidence, self-identity and creativity which are Assault Course, Rock Team Building Events, and Café and so vital to successful learning. Climbing Wall, Wavy free Wifi. Lane, Long Tumble Lanes, We are passionate about 2016 in Solihull by two artists There truly is something for everyone! Trapeze Over Foam, developing the whole child with over 25 years experience Basket Ball Hoop Lane, Check out page 18 to enter Rush UK’s and also recognise that art teaching art. Slack Lines, Total Wipeout, competition to win VIP tickets to their can provide a release from the Look out for our Big Draw event Extreme Dodgeball launch. stresses of modern living! We in October! offer art classes to older children Courts, High Performance rushuk.com, facebook.com/ Artattheheartltd.co.uk, 07772 Arena and Kids Birthday RushUKTrampolinePark, Rush and adults, too. Art at the Heart Ltd was launched in February 319303 Parties. UK B30 3DZ

Issue 35 5 News www.familiesonline.co.uk

An all singing, all dancing D-Day drama magine being told to leave your home. Imagine American soldiers occupying your house and land. Imagine Ibeing 12 and angry, with only a cat to tell your secrets to. Well it all happened (most of it anyway) in Slapton Sands, Devon, in 1944. Based on Michael Morpurgo’s novel, 946: The Amazing Directed by Emma Rice this show has already enjoyed rave Story Of Adolphus Tips, presented by Kneehigh, uses music, reviews, and promises to be one to remember! puppetry and foolishness to tell this tale of war, prejudice and Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Age recommendation 7+, 6 - love. Tender, political and surprisingly romantic, this story 15 October 2016 speaks to us all and will finally reveal the secrets the US and British governments tried to keep quiet. birmingham-rep.co.uk, 0121 236 4455

Family- Term time holidays Father’s court case win friendly opens the floodgates When Jon Platt, a father based on the Isle of Wight, fun with took his daughter on holiday to Disneyland during term time, the local council came down hard on him and fined him. Jon took the case to court to ParkLives challenge the decision and the courts overturned his conviction. Parents all over the country will have followed the case with interest. They all know that holiday Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield companies raise the cost of trips massively when residents will be able to take the term is over, so the possibility of taking a advantage of hundreds of free and fun cheaper holiday in term time is attractive. activity sessions taking place across Now it seems that local councils in England have the city as ParkLives returns for a third The timetabled sessions are an hour decided not to prosecute other parents facing year. The sessions began this summer, long and led by supportive and similar fines for term-time holidays. and will continue through the Autumn friendly trained instructors from the season. local area. The BBC spoke to a large proportion of local council across England and found that many had decided Why not go along to your local Daily sessions are now available not to prosecute parents who flouted holiday rules. ParkLives park, exercise with the family to join in 44 parks across the Ten had stopped cases from going to court, six and enjoy some outdoor fun? The city, including Cotteridge Park, stopped sending out fines and 11 were ‘looking at’ programme is run by Coca-Cola Great Handsworth Park, Lickey Hills their policies. However, 49 councils said they would Britain in partnership with Active Parks Country Park, Victoria Common, continue with current policies. Birmingham, part of the Birmingham Edgbaston Reservoir, New Hall Valley Wellbeing Service. Country Park and Sutton Park. The A spokesman for the Department for Education extended programme will continue said: “The rules are perfectly clear - children should This year ParkLives will offer more than not be taken out of school without good reason”. 30 family-friendly, fun and informal to run during the Autumn, and a new activities, with brand new sessions timetable will also be available over However, many parents feel that if the Government including laughter yoga, alongside the winter months. does not want parents to take children out of returning favourites such as Zumba, View the full timetable and book a school, there should be stronger regulation of the Green Fit Baby, walking and tennis. space online at www.parklives.com holiday industry. 6 Issue 35 News www.familiesonline.co.ukwww.familiesonline.co.uk NovateNews

FAMILY LAW

Direct Access To Legal An all singing, Experts In Family Law all dancing D-Day drama magine being told to leave your home. Imagine American soldiers occupying your house and land. Imagine The break up of any relationship can be a stressful and sometimes traumatic experience. Ibeing 12 and angry, with only a cat to tell your secrets to. Well it all happened (most of it anyway) in Slapton Sands, Devon, in 1944. You will have many questions to ask but may not be sure where to turn to ﬁnd the Based on Michael Morpurgo’s novel, 946: The Amazing Directed by Emma Rice this show has already enjoyed rave answers. At NoVate Direct Legal Solutions, we simplify the process ensuring that you get Story Of Adolphus Tips, presented by Kneehigh, uses music, reviews, and promises to be one to remember! the very best advice that is delivered swiftly and at a cost to suit your budget. puppetry and foolishness to tell this tale of war, prejudice and Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Age recommendation 7+, 6 - love. Tender, political and surprisingly romantic, this story 15 October 2016 speaks to us all and will finally reveal the secrets the US and Typically we are asked to help with the following types of enquiry: British governments tried to keep quiet. birmingham-rep.co.uk, 0121 236 4455 Divorce and separation Financial disputes Term time holidays Pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements Family- Matters involving children including adoption Father’s court case win Financial matters including estate planning and bankruptcy friendly opens the floodgates We can help you with a wide variety of problems that extend far beyond those included When Jon Platt, a father based on the Isle of Wight, here. If you’re not sure, just get in touch and we can help. fun with took his daughter on holiday to Disneyland during term time, the local council came down hard on Our barristers will provide a free 30 minute conference where appropriate. him and fined him. Jon took the case to court to PLEASE QUOTE FF0916 ParkLives challenge the decision and the courts overturned his conviction. Parents all over the country will have followed NoVate is a ‘not for proﬁt’ organisation. the case with interest. They all know that holiday Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield companies raise the cost of trips massively when residents will be able to take the term is over, so the possibility of taking a Visit our website at www.novatedls.com advantage of hundreds of free and fun cheaper holiday in term time is attractive. activity sessions taking place across Now it seems that local councils in England have the city as ParkLives returns for a third The timetabled sessions are an hour decided not to prosecute other parents facing year. The sessions began this summer, long and led by supportive and similar fines for term-time holidays. and will continue through the Autumn friendly trained instructors from the season. local area. The BBC spoke to a large proportion of local council WHEN YOU HAVE A FAMILY LAW across England and found that many had decided Why not go along to your local Daily sessions are now available not to prosecute parents who flouted holiday rules. ParkLives park, exercise with the family to join in 44 parks across the Ten had stopped cases from going to court, six and enjoy some outdoor fun? The city, including Cotteridge Park, stopped sending out fines and 11 were ‘looking at’ ISSUE YOU CAN TRUST NOVATE programme is run by Coca-Cola Great Handsworth Park, Lickey Hills their policies. However, 49 councils said they would Britain in partnership with Active Parks Country Park, Victoria Common, continue with current policies. Birmingham, part of the Birmingham Edgbaston Reservoir, New Hall Valley Wellbeing Service. Country Park and Sutton Park. The A spokesman for the Department for Education extended programme will continue said: “The rules are perfectly clear - children should www.novatedls.com This year ParkLives will offer more than not be taken out of school without good reason”. 30 family-friendly, fun and informal to run during the Autumn, and a new e: [email protected] | t: 0845 210 0160 activities, with brand new sessions timetable will also be available over However, many parents feel that if the Government including laughter yoga, alongside the winter months. does not want parents to take children out of returning favourites such as Zumba, View the full timetable and book a school, there should be stronger regulation of the Green Fit Baby, walking and tennis. space online at www.parklives.com holiday industry. Issue 35 7 Novate Families 210mm x 297mm 3mm bleed FINAL.indd 1 23/08/2016 15:44 Parenting www.familiesonline.co.uk

Great grand care Safe Modern British parents too time pushed for the school run. Space A recent study commissioned by new children, allowing grandparents to take over. parenting programme FamiliesOnline.co.uk, That said, the good news is that 62% of created by the team behind Emma’s Diary, parents still sit down three or more times a Support has revealed how an increasing number of week with their children for an evening meal, grandparents are relied upon for childcare and over half 53% jet off on a family holiday duties, with 50% of parents outsourcing their once or twice a year. What’s more, 11% take Group childcare due to the pressures of everyday life. grandparents with them, to spend quality Of the 1,000 parents surveyed, 15% blamed time together as a family. Do you care for a child the commute to and from work as a barrier with additional needs? to spending time with their children, with an additional 18% sending their children to Safe Space is a Solihull-based ‘granny day care’ and tackling their workload support group for parents/ in the evening. carers of children with additional needs such as ASD, The study by FamiliesOnline.co.uk also ADHD, sensory issues or SEND. revealed that a staggering 58% of modern It’s a ‘Safe Space’ to chat, get families now have both parents working full advice, laugh, cry and make time. new friends. Almost half of parents 48% aren’t able to take Monthly meetings - Thurs pm their children to school and consequently, & Tues am in Solihull are missing out on the ‘word of mouth’ recommendations of things to do in Join their Facebook group: their local area. safespacesolihull Further research conducted within Contact them for dates the FamiliesOnline.co.uk database, & times: Gina 07807 showed that 80% of grandparents are 141 815 or Emma weekly caregivers of children. As well 07931 968 133 as a busy workload, more than half of respondents also agree that the rise in single parent families is resulting in grandparents having to step in. What’s more, a further 60% of parents spend an hour or less a week reading bedtime stories to their

Thumb-suckers and nail-biters ‘prone to fewer allergies’ Children who often put their fingers in their mouths are less at risk It may drive parents mad but it However, the habits seemed to has been suggested that children have little or no effect on the who regularly suck their thumbs incidence of developing hay-fever or bite their nails are less prone to or asthma. developing allergies. A spokesperson from Allergy UK, The results of a study published said: “Research that has been in the New Zealand journal carried out in other countries Pediatrics suggest that being also adds weight to this theory exposed to germs at an early age of the role the environment and can help boost the child’s immune gut microbiota play in shaping an system, making them less prone individual’s potential to develop a to developing allergies. food allergy. The study followed 1,000 people “Having pets at home, older and assessed them between the siblings and living on a farm ages of five and 32. It found that have also been identified as suckers and biters had fewer environmental influences allergies to things like house dust that may have a role in the mites and pet dander at the age development of allergic of 13. reactions.”

8 Issue 35 www.familiesonline.co.uk Parenting Looking for family-friendly, home-based, part-time work? You’re reading this, so we hope you already love Ideal candidates will have experience with Come and work for Families Birmingham magazine. But did you social media and the confidence to present Families Online in know Families also has a new website? Like our the site to potential clients. magazine, it is the go-to site for parents, carers and Contact: the West Midlands! grandparents, offering all the local information they [email protected] need to enjoy family time in their area. www.familiesonline.co.uk We are recruiting Area Managers to create content for our local sites. If you are local, and love exploring what the area has to offer your family, this opportunity may suit you! You can work from home around the needs of your family – and all you need 2008|2009 2008|20092008|2009 is a computer and a phone. RUSSELL NURSERY SCHOOL Children aged from 3 months to 5 years. Ofsted Outstanding • Qualiﬁed friendly staff. • Daily home cooking. • Interactive Whiteboard/Table. • CCTV cameras in every room. • Free Grant places available for age 2, 3 & 4 years Tel: 0121 777 4902 130 Russell Rd, Hall Green, B’ham B28 8SQ Other sites 621 Fox Hollies Road, Small World Nursery, Hall Green, 975 Stratford Road, Birmingham. Hall Green, B28 9DW Birmingham B28 8BG Tel: 0121 777 3778 Tel: 0121 693 3071

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Issue 35 9 Musical Opportunities www.familiesonline.co.uk Ignite your child’s inner Shostakovich (or Sheeran!) hildren are inspired by a range of different musical styles and Ctraditions. In the West Midlands there is sure to be an activity, club or instrument to enthuse them. Research has shown exposure to If your child prefers pop music musical activity from birth supports to Prokofiev perhaps they would the development of baby’s main neural like The Roadhouse Music Academy, pathways. There are a variety of local Stirchley, for guitar, bass or vocals baby and tots music classes such as Jo lessons (age 7+). Or the Birmingham Jingles, Rhythm Time and Music Masters. Drum School for ages 4+. For school age children there are For interactive events try CBSO Notelets instrumental activity clubs offered at who deliver concerts for tots. The Strings Club, and at Academic Birmingham Contemporary Music Excellence. Birmingham Pianos have Group run free workshops for pre-loved pianos for purchase, and ages 8 – 18 years with can also offer ABRSM accredited piano world class orchestral tuition. Ex Cathedra’s Academy of performers, as Vocal Music offers choral opportunities well as Families@4 to children aged 4+, and the CBSO concerts. Children’s Chorus is for children aged Log on to 8 – 13 years. familiesonline.co.uk for more details. Musical opportunities with world class performers The award winning Birmingham Contemporary Music Group is beginning an exciting new season of concerts, workshops and events especially for children and their families. During October half term, why not drop in to Music my Map -free drop-in creative music and drawing workshops the whole family can enjoy. BCMG and Ikon Gallery have collaborated to get everyone exploring the shapes, textures, and colours of where they live, and transcribing those into original pieces of art and music. Mon 24 Oct, 2-4.30pm Tues 25 Oct, 1-4pm Weoley Castle Library, B29 5HR South Yardley Library, B25 8LT Music Maze and Zigzag Ensemble Music Maze is a free series of fun, creative workshops for children aged 8 – 11 years led by the BCMG musicians and learning team (Zigzag is for the 12 – 18s). They do not need to play a musical instrument to take part. Children attending Music Maze and Zigzag can earn an Arts Award. The details for the Music Maze and Zigzag Ensemble workshops are: Sunday 25 September, 10am – 2.30pm, CBSO Centre, B1 2LF; and Sunday 30 October 2016, 10am – 2.30pm Trefoil House, Birmingham B1 1QL National Children’s Places for all Music Maze and Zigzag Ensemble workshops are free but limited, and must be booked in advance either through bcmg.org.uk/whats-on or by calling Orchestra auditions 0121 616 6519. are now open!

Does your child have a passion for playing an orchestral instrument? Then now is their chance to be a part of Great Britain’s leading symphony orchestra for children. The National Children’s Orchestra have begun their quest for children aged 7–13 to audition for a place in one of the 2017 NCO orchestras. This year’s auditions are being held on 29 & 30 October at Ruddock Performing Arts Centre, Edgbaston, Birmingham. To find out how NCO can give your child once in a lifetime musical opportunities, and to apply for an audition, log on to nco.org.uk today.

10 Issue 35 Musical Opportunities www.familiesonline.co.uk Musical Opportunities Ignite your child’s inner Kimichi – a school with Music Shostakovich (or Sheeran!) hildren are inspired by a range of different musical styles and at its heart Ctraditions. In the West Midlands there is sure to be an activity, Birmingham Pianos club or instrument to enthuse them. Specially selected prestige pianos Research has shown exposure to If your child prefers pop music bought and sold musical activity from birth supports to Prokofiev perhaps they would by professional the development of baby’s main neural like The Roadhouse Music Academy, pianist and ABRSM pathways. There are a variety of local Stirchley, for guitar, bass or vocals registered teacher. baby and tots music classes such as Jo lessons (age 7+). Or the Birmingham Jingles, Rhythm Time and Music Masters. Drum School for ages 4+. Fine quality For school age children there are For interactive events try CBSO Notelets pre-loved pianos. instrumental activity clubs offered at who deliver concerts for tots. [email protected] The Strings Club, and at Academic Birmingham Contemporary Music 01564 829461, 07790 660649 Excellence. Birmingham Pianos have Group run free workshops for birminghampianos.co.uk pre-loved pianos for purchase, and ages 8 – 18 years with any scientific studies have shown the benefits of can also offer ABRSM accredited piano world class orchestral playing a musical instrument, especially in regards tuition. Ex Cathedra’s Academy of performers, as Mto the development of mathematical thinking and Vocal Music offers choral opportunities well as Families@4 language learning. to children aged 4+, and the CBSO concerts. Therefore Kimichi, an independent school for 9 – 16 year olds, are proud of Children’s Chorus is for children aged Log on to their innovative, exciting and progressive curriculum … delivered through 8 – 13 years. familiesonline.co.uk for more details. the medium of music. Music is a fundamental part of school life, with every pupil joining the school orchestra as soon as they are able. Kimichi offers your child a home-from-home environment, encourages overall contentment, and supports the development of the “whole child” Musical opportunities with through a variety of extra-curricular opportunities, visits and trips. world class performers To find out more visit kimichischool.co.uk or call 0121 679 5298 Aged 7-13 with a passion for playing? The award winning Birmingham Contemporary Music Group is AUDITIONS FOR 2017 OPEN NOW beginning an exciting new season of concerts, workshops and events especially for children and their families. During October half term, why not drop in to Music my Map -free drop-in creative music and drawing workshops the whole family can enjoy. BCMG and Ikon Gallery have collaborated to get everyone exploring the shapes, textures, and colours of Audition Fee £20 where they live, and transcribing those into original pieces of art and music. Apply Full ﬁ nancial Mon 24 Oct, 2-4.30pm Tues 25 Oct, 1-4pm support available Weoley Castle Library, B29 5HR South Yardley Library, B25 8LT Today Music Maze and Zigzag Ensemble Music Maze is a free series of fun, creative workshops for children aged 8 – 11 years led by the BCMG musicians and learning team (Zigzag is for the 12 – 18s). They do not need to play a musical instrument to take part. Children attending Music Maze and Zigzag can earn an Arts Award. The details for the Music Maze and Zigzag Ensemble workshops are: Sunday 25 September, 10am – 2.30pm, CBSO Centre, B1 2LF; and Sunday 30 October 2016, Music my Map 10am – 2.30pm Trefoil House, Birmingham B1 1QL National Children’s A BCMG and Ikon Gallery collaboration Places for all Music Maze and Zigzag Ensemble workshops are free but limited, and for the Family Arts Festival and as part of The Big Draw must be booked in advance either through bcmg.org.uk/whats-on or by calling Orchestra auditions 0121 616 6519. Monday �� October ��, �-�.��pm Weoley Castle Library, Birmingham B�� HR are now open! Tuesday �� October ��, �-�pm South Yardley Library, Birmingham B�� LT Does your child have a passion for playing an orchestral instrument? Then now is their chance to be a part of Great Free drop-in creative music and drawing workshops for the whole family. Britain’s leading symphony orchestra for children. Telephone 01934 418855 What shapes, textures and colours describe the sounds you hear Website www.nco.org.uk The National Children’s Orchestra have begun their quest for near where you live? And what pa erns and lines would your feet children aged 7–13 to audition for a place in one of the 2017 create if we mapped the journeys that you make every day? Charity No. 803026 NCO orchestras. This year’s auditions are being held on 29 & 30 October at Ruddock Performing Arts Centre, Edgbaston, Drop into our Music my Map workshops and explore these NCO is looking for young musicians Birmingham. ideas in drawings and sound. Small percussion instruments and art materials will be provided. from your area! To find out how NCO can give your child once in a lifetime Auditions being held on 29 & 30 October in Birmingham musical opportunities, and to apply for an audition, log on to bcmg.org.uk at Ruddock Performing Arts Centre! nco.org.uk today.

Issue 35 11 Education www.familiesonline.co.uk

12 Issue 35 Education www.familiesonline.co.uk EducationCareers

Getting your child into a good routine Getting your child settled into a good morning rush. Get lunchboxes made routine is essential from the start of and breakfast things out the night a new school year. This ensures they before. get enough sleep and are able to get Place a planner on the fridge. This is up on time for school. a great help to avoid missing tutors Getting your child’s 11+ foundations right! Make sure your kids have exercise and play dates. A big calendar in the laces at Grammar and Independent schools are highly sought after in Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton every day even if the weather’s kitchen means everyone can see dreadful. It keeps them fit and helps what’s happening and when. PColdfield and the competition continues to rise every year. with a good night’s sleep. Children respond really well to a So when should I start my child’s 11+ preparation? Here’s what our parents have to say: My child hates school: Mornings are bad times as everyone routine so you’ll thank yourself when Our research shows that with the right guidance, children “KSOL’s online programme really helped my daughter improve her is tired. Get up 15 minutes before the they adapt to doing the right things kids to get some ‘me time’. Ban games at the right time each day. who start their preparation in Years 4 and 5 have ample time foundation skills and boost her confidence.” what can I do? to make progress in their studies. They can expand their key and TV in the morning. By Sally J. Hall “I would not hesitate to recommend KSOL to anyone hoping to get their skills and identify their weaker areas, tackling them directly. How to cope with school refuseniks Get things prepared the night before. Sally is a writer and editor who has written for all child into Grammar School!” the main parenting titles as well as The Independent Not all children skip happily through the school gates every This can help immensely with the and The Mail. What can KSOL do for you and your child? Our educational advisors are always available to offer you and your day. Here’s what you can do to help… We combine over 10 years of 11+ experience to create child additional support and guidance when you need it. KSOL ensure Keep calm (not easy we know but do try…) up-to-date personalised online programmes which are no stone is left unturned to help provide your child with the best 11+ If your little one starts to associate mornings with being monitored by a team of qualified and caring tutors. Every education and you with the peace of mind that you’re on the right track. told off and feeling stressed, it could add to their anxieties. child is considered as an individual and courses are tailored See KSOL’s “Back to School” offers at www.ksol.co.uk or try a FREE week It might just be a phase to help improve their particular areas of weakness. trial today. Call us today on 0121 733 6558. Many children have a phase when they’re not keen on school; this might resolve itself within a few days. Meanwhile if you’re sure they’re just ‘trying it on’, stand firm and make it clear that school is non-negotiable. King Edward VI Five Ways School, Priory School, Sir Harry’s Road, Birmingham Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2UR Fake illnesses can be a headache… School Open Days - Fri 16 Sept, 6pm – 8.30pm - Sat 1 Oct, 10am-12.30pm Mysterious maladies are common when kids don’t want Contact: 0121 475 3535 www.prioryschool.net to go to school, although it can be difficult to decipher Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School, Handsworth Grammar School, www.kefw.org Ruckleigh School, Solihull whether they’re crying wolf or actually ill. Threatening Sutton Coldfield Birmingham King Edward VI Handsworth - If you would like to arrange a school a trip/ call to the doctors will usually get illness fibbers - Thurs 15 Sept, 4 – 7pm - Thurs 22 Sept, 5 – 8 pm School for Girls, Handsworth tour call 0121 705 2773 miraculously cured. - Tues 18 Oct, 9 – 10.15am Contact: 0121 554 2794 Wood, Birmingham www.ruckleigh.co.uk - Weds 19 Oct, 9 – 10.15am www.handsworth.bham.sch.uk - 20 Sept, 5pm – 8pm Shrubbery School, Walmley Consider potential causes - Thurs 20 Oct, 9 – 10.15am Kimichi School, Acocks Green, - 21 Sept, 9am – 12pm Sutton Coldfield Work on getting your child to open up when it’s not the Contact: 0121 250 5400 Birmingham *Viewing by appointment only - If you would like to arrange ‘heat of the moment’, so not when you’re late for school www.bishopveseys.bham.sch.uk - If you would like to arrange a Contact: 0121 554 2342 a school tour call 0121 351 1582 and they’re in tears. Common reasons for school aversion The Blue Coat School, Harborne, school tour call 0121 679 5298 www.kingedwardvi.bham.sch.uk www.shrubberyschool.co.uk include bullying/ friendship problems, boredom, learning Birmingham www.kimichischool.co.uk King Edward VI High School for Solihull School, Solihull difficulties, a tricky relationship with a teacher or a major - Sat 12 Nov, 9:30am – 12:00pm. King Edward VI Aston School, Boys, Birmingham Sat 24 Sept Children are welcome to attend. - Sat 17 Sept, 1pm-3.30pm family event, such as divorce or bereavement. Birmingham - 9.30am – 12pm Contact: 0121 410 6800 - Mon 17 Oct, 9.30am – 11.30am Contact: 0121 472 1672 www.solsch.org.uk www.thebluecoatschool.com www.kes.org.uk Meet with their teacher - Tues 18 Oct, 9.30am – 11.30am St Martin’s School, Solihull Have a chat with their teacher to identify and work on any Edgbaston High School for Girls, Contact: 0121 327 1130 King Edward VI High School for - Sat 17 Sept, 9.30 am – 12pm underlying issues going on in the classroom, playground or Headlice: An irritating problem Edgbaston, Birmingham www.keaston.bham.sch.uk Girls, Birmingham - Weds 5 Oct, 6pm - 7.30pm at home so you can carve out an action plan together. When the children go back to school, if your child displays no symptoms, - Sat 24 Sept - 9.30am - 12pm King Edward VI Camp Hill, - Sat 17 Sept, 9.45am – 12 noon www.saintmartins-school.com Contact: 0121 454 5831 Contact: 0121 472 1834 it’s only a matter of time before those check regularly with a nit comb. Look School for Boys, Birmingham www.edgbastonhigh.co.uk www.kehs.org.uk Sutton Coldfield Grammar School Still struggling? nasty nits appear! out for small black or brown dots on - Fri 23 Sept, 6pm – 8pm for Girls, Sutton Coldfield Support for severe cases should be available via your GP Eversfield Prep School, Solihull - Sat 24 Sept, 10am – 12.30pm Kingswood School, Shirley, Headlice, also known as nits, are tiny the comb. These are the lice. - Wed 21 Sept, 6.30pm - 8.30pm who might make a referral to Child and Adolescent Mental - Sat 1 Oct - 9:30am - 12:00pm Contact: 0121 444 3188 Solihull - Thur 22 Sept, 11am - 12:15pm Health Services (CAMHS) or a private child psychologist. insects that live in human hair and A pharmacist can sell you a remedy; Contact: 0121 705 0354 www.camphillboys.bham.sch.uk - If you would like to arrange a www.suttcold.bham.sch.uk feed on blood. They are very small, so treat all family members and again www.eversfield.co.uk school tour call 0121 744 7883 King Edward VI Camp Hill West House Independent Prep By Liat Hughes Joshi www.kingswoodschool.co.uk it’s no surprise they’re difficult to see. after a couple of weeks to take care of Hallfield School (3 – 11 years), School for Girls, Birmingham School for Boys, Edgbaston, Liat is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Edgbaston, Birmingham, - Thurs 22 Sept, 5.30 – 8.30pm, Norfolk House School, Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by The discarded egg cases are white eggs; lice have a 30-day life span. Birmingham - Sat 1 Oct, 9.30 – 12pm - 17 – 20 Oct *by appointment Edgbaston, Birmingham Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson). and it’s often these, the ‘nits’, that you By Sally J. Hall - Fri 7 Oct, 10am – 12pm notice first, behind the ears. Even Contact: 0121 454 1496 Contact: 0121 444 2150 - Sat 12 Nov, 10am - 1pm Contact: 0121 440 4097 www.hallfieldschool.co.uk www.kechg.org.uk www.norfolkhouseschool.co.uk www.westhouseprep.com Issue 35 13 Education www.familiesonline.co.uk Education Improve your 11+ Award-winning maths Vocabulary in a Flash and English tuition t Explore Learning, our passion is to help students achieve t is widely acknowledged that parents have a crucial part to play in helping Atheir potential and be the best they can be. Ia child develop a rich vocabulary, which is critical to success in the 11+. We get to know each child as an individual and help them to fall in love Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cards has developed a comprehensive vocabulary-building with learning. Our goal - to build confident, fearless learners who are resource with clear child-friendly definitions, the perfect tool for parents working with hungry for knowledge. We’ve delivered award-winning maths and English their child to enrich vocabulary and help them succeed in the verbal reasoning element tuition to over 175,000 children across the UK. of the 11+. Levels 1 and 2 focus on laying down the foundations of a broad vocabulary, Our award-winning approach has a proven record of supporting children Opposites 1 and 2 take an intense look at both academically and attitudinally. antonym pairs, and the fifth box supports This summer we’ve encouraged children and parents to learn new work on tricky Compound Words. skills together, showing off what they’ve achieved back at school this Creator Mary Farquhar says: “We’ve September! www.explorelearning.co.uk done the hard work so you can focus on your area of expertise: your child. Don’t just “do” vocabulary Maths Mastery for UK children VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS once a week - repetition is the key to 11+ VERBAL REASONING internalising new words. Stick the The Department for Education has pledged £41 million for over VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS cards up in the kitchen; practise 50% of all UK schools to introduce Asian style maths tuition. them on the go; challenge each Shanghai, Singapore and Hong Kong lead the world in maths Expand your antonym and other to sneak new words into performance, using a system called maths mastery. Those using the synonym knowledge and conversation; even act them out! scheme have been shown to perform better than their peers. The achieve a higher 11+ score system was created by educational psychologists and specialists. A great vocabulary is an asset Recommended by tutors for for life, not just for the 11+: it’s Maths mastery gives children the ability to recognise patterns, see the verbal reasoning element worth the effort.” connections and to be able to visualise – the main ingredients of problem-solving. of the Durham CEM test For more information visit www.vocabularyﬂashcards.co.uk www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk Don’t forget to mention Families magazine. ‘Outstanding’

The 11 Plus Achieve academic /\W\RS^S\RS\baQV]]ZT]`UW`ZaOUSR &gSO`a and ‘Excellent’ arents considering an success with The Pindependent education for Tuition Club their daughters need to add 11 Plus Tuition Club Edgbaston High School’s forthcoming Whole School The 11 Plus Tuition Club is managed by Open Day to their diary - Saturday 24 September, 9.30am - 12.00 noon. CALL NOW! qualified teacher Yasmeen Ahmed, BA(Hons), PGCE, MA. She has over 15 years The School was awarded ‘Outstanding’ and ‘Excellent’ Very Experienced and accreditations from the Independent Schools experience of 11 plus coaching. Qualified 11+ tutor! Inspectorate in January, endorsing its reputation as Yasmeen says “I have an excellent pass rate one of the leading independent schools in the region. Free assessment which has been achieved through hard EXAMINATION FOR YEAR 7 ENTRY TO work and dedication. I have successfully CRB Cleared EDGBASTON HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS Demand for Nursery, Prep, Senior and Sixth Form supported children of all academic abilities places is high, with numbers increasing every year. Weekly homework who have passed and gained a place in a Edgbaston High School has decided to move its All pupils enjoy a broad and balanced curriculum. grammar school. A positive attitude is the £20 per Class examination in line with other schools key to success. From September, Prep pupils will bene t from Female Teacher Excellent outcomes are achieved The entrance examination will now take place on a recent project to improve facilities, enjoying Excellent Pass Rate via a clear strategy for each child, an extended library, new art studio and a large Saturday 15 October 2016 No charges for absences small class sizes, with weekly welcoming entrance reception. work prepared and marked Small Class size throughout the Closing date for registrations is by the Whole You are warmly invited to our Whole School Open Tuition in English & Maths Key entire 11 plus School Open Day on Saturday 24 September 2016 Day which will provide an opportunity to visit Stages 2, 3 & GCSE process.” all departments, including the newly extended Contact MOBILE: 07906 345768 Academic, Music, Sport, Art Scholarships Preparatory School building. Yasmeen Ahmed, 0121 454 5831 [email protected] www.edgbastonhigh.co.uk 07906 345768

14 Issue 35 www.familiesonline.co.uk Education Award-winning maths and English tuition t Explore Learning, our passion is to help students achieve Atheir potential and be the best they can be. We get to know each child as an individual and help them to fall in love with learning. Our goal - to build confident, fearless learners who are hungry for knowledge. We’ve delivered award-winning maths and English tuition to over 175,000 children across the UK. Our award-winning approach has a proven record of supporting children both academically and attitudinally. This summer we’ve encouraged children and parents to learn new skills together, showing off what they’ve achieved back at school this September! www.explorelearning.co.uk Maths Mastery for UK children The Department for Education has pledged £41 million for over 50% of all UK schools to introduce Asian style maths tuition. Shanghai, Singapore and Hong Kong lead the world in maths performance, using a system called maths mastery. Those using the scheme have been shown to perform better than their peers. The system was created by educational psychologists and specialists. Maths mastery gives children the ability to recognise patterns, see connections and to be able to visualise – the main ingredients of problem-solving.

‘Outstanding’

/\W\RS^S\RS\baQV]]ZT]`UW`ZaOUSR &gSO`a and ‘Excellent’ arents considering an Pindependent education for their daughters need to add Edgbaston High School’s forthcoming Whole School Open Day to their diary - Saturday 24 September, 9.30am - 12.00 noon. The School was awarded ‘Outstanding’ and ‘Excellent’ accreditations from the Independent Schools Inspectorate in January, endorsing its reputation as one of the leading independent schools in the region. EXAMINATION FOR YEAR 7 ENTRY TO EDGBASTON HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS Demand for Nursery, Prep, Senior and Sixth Form places is high, with numbers increasing every year. Edgbaston High School has decided to move its All pupils enjoy a broad and balanced curriculum. examination in line with other schools From September, Prep pupils will bene t from The entrance examination will now take place on a recent project to improve facilities, enjoying an extended library, new art studio and a large Saturday 15 October 2016 welcoming entrance reception. Closing date for registrations is by the Whole You are warmly invited to our Whole School Open School Open Day on Saturday 24 September 2016 Day which will provide an opportunity to visit all departments, including the newly extended Academic, Music, Sport, Art Scholarships Preparatory School building. 0121 454 5831 [email protected] www.edgbastonhigh.co.uk

Issue 35 15 Education www.familiesonline.co.uk

The benefits of BE ASK ABOUT OUR GOOD TWO WEEK children’s clubs AT TRIAL BEING and classes YOURSELF hether or not you think you may be raising the next Picasso or Darcey Bussell, there’s no doubting the pluses of after school clubs. Unlock your child’s potential with W Stagecoach Performing Arts A couple of well-chosen weekly clubs can be great for giving your Singing, dancing and acting classes for child an insight into areas that the school curriculum doesn’t cover. 4 - 18 year olds, where students learn tagecoach Theatre Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. operated under franchise and are Arts Schools are tagecoach Theatre Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd. trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Stagecoach is a registered S Competitive team sports like football, or individual fitness acctvities to embrace life with creativity and courage

like gymnastics, are great for learning dificult life lessons like being a Find out more today:

gracious winner - and loser. stagecoach.co.uk/edgbaston Meanwhile, attending performing arts school, dance classes, art classes, swimming lessons or learning a musical instrument is ideal [email protected]

™

for discovering the art of practice, patience and persistence. ® 01926 651159 Creative Courage For Life However, the most important thing to think about when deciding which club to choose is the fun factor for your child.

Find us at www.artattheheartltd.co.uk Dizzy ART Dancers Club for ages 5-12 Various “Putting art at the heart of learning and play” ages welcome Arts • develop communication skills Based in Highgate, activities • build confidence and self-identity help to... Birmingham. • foster creativity Ages 3 - 18 years Tel: 07855 923371

run by Explore Open: Saturdays 0773 4651192 two highly 'ɊDɏ 10am - 1pm experienced Sculpt 3ɊLɆWPaint art teachers Sutton Coldfield create Experiment www.dizzydancers.org WITH A Arty fun in after school sessions www.bigarenaperformingarts.co.uk that support the school curriculum private tuition and art Solihull based classes for DIFFERENCE all ages Check website for programme and fees or Tel: 07772 319303 or email: [email protected] TO ADVERTISE HERE MUSIC CALL 07807 352087 1-to-1 drum tuition, City Centre location BIRMINGHAM Rock School grades 1-8. Ages 4 upwards. Tel: 0121 503 5849 CLUBS & CLASSES DIRECTORY www.birminghamdrumschool.co.uk ACADEMIC PROGRESS DANCE & DRAMA SWIMMING TUITION CONFIDENCE CENTRAL STAGE SCHOOL MASQUERADE MUSICAL THEATRE Swimming lessons Tap Street Jazz Musical Theatre Youth Theatre Group, Age 5+ Solihull: Adult & Children’s Classes from 3.5 years With over 120 centres across the UK, head online to NEW SKILLS Garretts Green Lane, Sheldon, B26 2SA Free places for nursery children to adults. ǩSI^TZWSJFWJXYHJSYWJ LOVE OF LEARNING Tel: Claire 07939 529 227 Telephone: 0121 722 3761 Lessons held in Solihull, Olton, Shirley & Acocks Green. [email protected] www.masquerademusicaltheatre.com Learn the 4 strokes for all swimmers using fun themes! CALL 01483 447 414 TO BOOK YOUR FREE TRIAL SESSION TODAY. Tel: 0121 405 0550 www.makeasplash.co.uk DUBARRIE SCHOOL OF DANCE Solihull Young Dancers Ballet, Tap and Jazz age 2 ½ + Ballet, Tap & Modern Dancing Branches in Yardley and Solihull Classes from age 2 ½ + EducationInvestor Telephone: 0121 744 1422 Promote your little one’s natural reflexes and teach them Awards 2015 Tel: Kate on 07722 732678 to swim. Babies from 6 weeks & older can join the fun! explorelearning.co.uk /explorelearning @exploretutors www.dubarrieschoolofdance.com www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk Tel: 0121 405 0440 www.waterhugs.co.uk

16 Issue 35 www.familiesonline.co.uk Clubs and Classes

like gymnastics, are great for learning dificult life lessons like being a Find out more today:

™

run by Explore Open: Saturdays 0773 4651192 two highly 'ɊDɏ 10am - 1pm experienced Sculpt 3ɊLɆWPaint art teachers Sutton Coldfield create Experiment Arty fun in after school sessions www.bigarenaperformingarts.co.uk www.dizzydancers.org that support the school curriculum private tuition and art Solihull based classes for all ages Check website for programme and fees or Tel: 07772 319303 or email: [email protected] TO ADVERTISE HERE MUSIC CALL 07807 352087 1-to-1 drum tuition, City Centre location BIRMINGHAM Rock School grades 1-8. Ages 4 upwards. Tel: 0121 503 5849 CLUBS & CLASSES DIRECTORY www.birminghamdrumschool.co.uk

DANCE & DRAMA SWIMMING TUITION CENTRAL STAGE SCHOOL MASQUERADE MUSICAL THEATRE Swimming lessons Tap Street Jazz Musical Theatre Youth Theatre Group, Age 5+ Solihull: Adult & Children’s Classes from 3.5 years Garretts Green Lane, Sheldon, B26 2SA Free places for nursery children to adults. Tel: Claire 07939 529 227 Telephone: 0121 722 3761 Lessons held in Solihull, Olton, Shirley & Acocks Green. [email protected] www.masquerademusicaltheatre.com Learn the 4 strokes for all swimmers using fun themes! Tel: 0121 405 0550 www.makeasplash.co.uk DUBARRIE SCHOOL OF DANCE Solihull Young Dancers Ballet, Tap and Jazz age 2 ½ + Ballet, Tap & Modern Dancing Branches in Yardley and Solihull Classes from age 2 ½ + Telephone: 0121 744 1422 Promote your little one’s natural reflexes and teach them Tel: Kate on 07722 732678 to swim. Babies from 6 weeks & older can join the fun! www.dubarrieschoolofdance.com www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk Tel: 0121 405 0440 www.waterhugs.co.uk

Issue 35 17 Competitions www.familiesonline.co.uk Experience the pageantry and spectacle of the 2016 Birmingham International Tattoo Britain’s biggest indoor military tattoo, with over 1,000 performers, will return to Birmingham bringing military and marching bands from Belgium, Netherlands, Ireland and the UK to the Barclaycard Arena in November. Watch over three hours of exciting displays and a spectacular grand finale in the Birmingham’s Barclaycard Arena. Saturday 26 November, 6pm; Sunday 27 November, 2pm. To have a chance of winning a set of four tickets answer the following question: At which venue will the 2016 Birmingham International Tattoo take place? To enter, send your answer, along with your contact number and full postal address to [email protected] before Tuesday 1st November ensuring you put Birmingham Tattoo Competition in the subject line of your email. www.birminghamtattoo.co.uk Terms and conditions on page 23

Win a family ticket to The Wind in the Willows at The Old Rep The Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham is generously For a chance to win a family ticket, on a date of your choice, giving away one set of family tickets (for two adults answer the following question: and two children) to see their sparkling Christmas Who is the author of The Wind in the Willows? production of Kenneth Grahame’s all-time classic children’s tale, 21 November–31 December 2016. To enter, send your answer, along with your contact number and full postal address to [email protected] This production - a playful take on the story of Mole, before Tuesday 1st November ensuring you put The Wind in Ratty, Badger and Mr Toad - promises to be a festive the Willows Competition in the subject line of your email. delight for the whole family. oldreptheatre.co.uk Terms and conditions on page 23

Rush UK VIP Launch Party Competition

Rush UK Trampoline Park will be coming to Birmingham in October 2016 and we plan to throw a big VIP launch event. You lucky people can win tickets to the launch with celebrity guests, acts, food, drink, music and of course, lots of jumping! If you’d like to enter this competition, like our Facebook Page where it will be announced as soon as it’s live. rushuk.com facebook.com/RushUKTrampolinePark Unit 6 Avery Dell, Kings Norton, Birmingham. B30 3DZ

18 Issue 35 Competitions www.familiesonline.co.uk Out andHalf About Term

Ackers Adventure You will create using different mediums Time: 9.45am – 10.30am Soho House Golden Hillock Road, Sparkbrook, and techniques. The programme will Fee: 6 wk term £44 per adult & child Soho Avenue, Birmingham, B18 5LB Experience the pageantry and spectacle of Birmingham, B11 2PY change throughout the year. Age Guidance: 2 – 4 years + PG 0121 348 8150 ackers-adventure.co.uk Genting Arena This children’s yoga class, combines birminghammuseums.org.uk/soho storytelling with movement for an 0121 772 5111 Exhibition Way, Birmingham, B40 1PA, Parent, Baby and Toddler Meet-up exciting shared activity for parents and the 2016 Birmingham International Tattoo Thrillseeker Activity Taster Day 0844 33 88 222 – Every Tuesday carers to enjoy with their children. Date: 1st October gentingarena.co.uk Dates: Every Tuesday until 25th October Britain’s biggest indoor military tattoo, with over 1,000 performers, Time: 10am – 3.30pm Horse of the Year Show Family Creative Dance Times: 9.30 – 11.30am Dates: 14th Sep – 19th Oct (Every Weds); Admission: £22 per person Dates: 5th – 9th October Admission: Free will return to Birmingham bringing military and marching bands or 18th Sep – 23rd Oct (Every Sun) Age: 5+ Times: 7am – 11pm Parents, grandparents and carers can from Belgium, Netherlands, Ireland and the UK to the Barclaycard Times: 10am – 11am Wednesday; Pre-booking essential. Tickets: From £31.70 bring babies and toddlers along to play 11am – 12pm Sunday Arena in November. Watch over three hours of exciting displays and a There’s a range of activities to try out on The Genting Arena will be transformed toys while the grown-ups enjoy a cuppa Fee: 6 wk term £44 per adult & child spectacular grand finale in the Birmingham’s Barclaycard Arena. the Ackers Thrillseeker Taster Day! Have into an equestrian world for the annual and chat. Free parking, secure garden. Age Guidance: 6 months – 3 years + PG fun trying the skiing, climbing, canoeing, Horse of the Year Show. Saturday 26 November, 6pm; Sunday 27 November, 2pm. zip wire and much more! BBQ onsite. Symphony Hall Hatton Adventure World Martineau Gardens Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EA 27 Priory Road, Edgbaston, To have a chance of winning a set of four tickets answer the following Hatton Country World thsh.co.uk Birmingham, B5 7UG 0121 780 3333 question: Dark Lane, Hatton, Warwick, CV35 8XA martineau-gardens.org.uk Dance Around the World 01926 843411 0121 440 7430 At which venue will the 2016 Birmingham International Tattoo take place? Date: Sunday 6th November hattonworld.com Autumn Event To enter, send your answer, along with your contact number and full Potato Shindig Time: 2.30pm Date: Sunday 25th September Admission: £12 Dates: 10th - 25th September postal address to [email protected] before Tuesday Opening Times: 11am – 3pm Don’t be shy, come on and dance! Times: 10am - 5.30pm 1st November ensuring you put Birmingham Tattoo Competition in the Admission: Free Come early to get down to the amazing Admission: £14.95 Bring the children along to enjoy apple live sound of the full City of Birmingham subject line of your email. Head over to Hatton Adventure World pressing, seasonal produce, child-friendly Symphony Orchestra! and pay a visit to the potato patch. www.birminghamtattoo.co.uk wildlife activities and live music from FREE craft activities in the foyer from Children can learn where their food local bands. 1pm. Terms and conditions on page 23 comes from by harvesting potatoes to take home and cook. Hoar Park Win a family ticket to The Wind in the Willows at The Old Rep B4114 Nr Ansley, Nuneaton, Barber Institute Warwickshire, CV10 0QU, The Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham is generously For a chance to win a family ticket, on a date of your choice, of Fine Arts hoar-park.co.uk Adventure for everyone! giving away one set of family tickets (for two adults answer the following question: University of Birmingham, B15 2TS 024 7639 4433 and two children) to see their sparkling Christmas Who is the author of The Wind in the Willows? barber.org.uk Craft Fairs 0121 772 5111 production of Kenneth Grahame’s all-time classic 0121 414 2261 Dates: 18th September children’s tale, 21 November–31 December 2016. To enter, send your answer, along with your contact number [email protected] Times: 10 – 4pm and full postal address to [email protected] Creative Sunday Workshops Craft Fair takes place in Hoar Park’s Red This production - a playful take on the story of Mole, before Tuesday 1st November ensuring you put The Wind in Dates in Sept: 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th Barn. Refreshments available. Events are Ratty, Badger and Mr Toad - promises to be a festive the Willows Competition in the subject line of your email. Times: subject to change. For information about delight for the whole family. Ages 4 – 8 years: 11am – 12.30pm any of the events call the office. oldreptheatre.co.uk Terms and conditions on page 23 Ages 8 – 12 years:1.30 – 3pm Admission: £5 per session At each session children will be inspired to create wonderful piece of art using a range of mediums and techniques. Take your budding Rembrandts along Rush UK VIP Launch to the Barber Institute to be filled with inspiration by using colour, shape, texture and nature in their very own Party Competition masterpieces. Birmingham Contemporary Music Group CBSO Centre, Berkley Street Birmingham, B1 2LF Ackers Adventure ~ Birmingham ~ B11 2PY bcmg.org.uk/whats-on 0121 616 2616 Ikon Gallery www.ackers-adventure.co.uk [email protected] 1 Oozells Square, Brindleyplace, Music Maze (8 - 11 years), and Birmingham, B1 2HS ZigZag Ensemble (12 – 16 years) ikon-gallery.org Date: Sunday 25th September; 0121 248 0708 Time: 10am – 2.30pm Family Saturday Admission: Free Dates: the first Saturday of most months Come along and join these free exciting Time: 1 – 4pm music workshop days. Children of Admission: Free, no need to book all musical abilities, get the priceless (suggested donation, £2) Interiors experience of composing original Come along with your family, all ages Antiques, Furnishings, Weddings, Wood-burners, pieces of music, working alongside the welcome. Explore the latest Ikon Gallery Giftware, Curtains, Blinds world class musicians of Birmingham art exhibition. Participate in activities Interests Contemporary Music Group. which will challenge, intrigue and delight. Tack & Animal Feed, Giftware, Toys, Candles, Needlework Pre-booking essential via website. Craft macbirmingham & Bunting, Florist, Wood-turning, Pottery Parties Shop Birmingham Museum Fairs Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, B12 9QH Food and Drink Sunday 18th and Art Gallery macbirmingham.co.uk September 0121 446 3232 Licensed Restaurant, Chocolate Shop, Tea Rooms. Chamberlain Square, TLC – Tea leaves & Co ee Beans, Co ee Machines Rush UK Trampoline Park will be coming to Birmingham in Birmingham, B3 3DH, Baby & Toddler Creative Play October 2016 and we plan to throw a big VIP launch event. You 0121 348 8000 Dates: 13th Sep – 18th Oct (Every Tues); Fashion lucky people can win tickets to the launch with celebrity guests, birminghammuseums.org.uk/bmag or 14th Sep – 19th Oct (Every Weds) Knitwear, Jewellery, Handbags, Wedding, acts, food, drink, music and of course, lots of jumping! Weekend Family Arts Time: 9.45am – 10.30am Cocktail and Daywear, corsetry, Theatre Days: Every Saturday and Sunday until Fee: 6 wk term £44 per adult & child Costume, Leather Bags, Wallets, Belts If you’d like to enter this competition, like our Facebook Page 27th November Age Guidance: 4-24 months + PG Creative play sessions. A friendly and Fun where it will be announced as soon as it’s live. Time: 11am - 1pm The Children’s Farm & Parties, Pets Corner. Admission: £2 per child stimulating environment for babies rushuk.com Booking not necessary. and toddlers to try a range and creative activities with their parents/carers. Open all year (inc Bank Holidays) Tuesday to Sunday 10am-5pm facebook.com/RushUKTrampolinePark Get creative and make something new at Tel: 024 7639 4433 www.hoar-park.co.uk Family Arts Weekends. Family Yoga & Movement Unit 6 Avery Dell, Kings Norton, Birmingham. B30 3DZ Dates: 13th Sep – 18th Oct (Every Tues) B4114 Nr Ansley, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV10 0QU

Issue 35 19 What’s On - October Half Term www.familiesonline.co.uk

OCTOBER HALF Birmingham Contemporary HALF TERM HOLIDAY Music Group CHILDCARE TERM ACTIVITIES Trefoil House, Brownsea Drive Ackers Adventure Blucher Street, Birmingham, B1 1QL Academic Excellence Golden Hillock Road, bcmg.org.uk/whats-on Venue: 9 George Road, Edgbaston, Sparkbrook, Birmingham, B11 2PY 0121 616 2616 Birmingham, B15 1NP ackers-adventure.co.uk Family Day (for children 8 – 11 years Times: 9 – 4pm 0121 772 5111 and their families), and (extended hours 8am – 6pm) School Holiday Programme ZigZag Ensemble (12 – 16 years) To book: 0121 454 2858 or Dates: 24th, 26th & 28th October Date: Sunday 30th October; [email protected] academicexcellence.org.uk Time: 10am – 4pm Time: 10am – 2.30pm Fun for the little ones this half term. Admission: £30pp per day Admission: Free Plenty of crafts, games, nature trails and Ackers Adventure Age: 8 – 16 years Come along and join these free exciting more! Venue: Golden Hillock Road, Sparkbrook, Pre-booking essential. music workshop days. Children of Birmingham, B11 2PY

There’s a variety of activities for the all musical abilities, get the priceless The Core Theatre Times: 10 – 4 (previously Solihull Arts Complex) youngsters to try such as Skiing, Archery, experience of composing original To book: 0121 772 5111 The Core Theatre, Solihull Climbing and Orienteering. Bring packed pieces of music, working alongside the ackers-adventure.co.uk Theatre Square, Touchwood, Homer Road, lunch and change of clothes. world class musicians of Birmingham Aspire Active Camps Contemporary Music Group. Solihull, B91 3RG Venue 1: Hagley High School, Hagley Pre-booking essential via website. thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk 0121 704 6962 Venue 2: Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School, Black Country Living The Adventures Of Sinbad Sutton Coldfield Museum (show and workshop) Venue 3: Tudor Grange Academy, Solihull Tipton Road, Dudley, DY1 4SQ Date: Thurs 27 Oct Venue 4: Queen Mary’s Grammar School, bclm.co.uk Times: 11.30am; 2.30pm Walsall 0121 520 8054 Admission: £7 Children (ticket price Venue 5: CTC Kingshurst Academ Times: 10am – 4pm Creepy Critters includes workshop fee), £6 Adults (Extended day 8.15 – 5.45pm) Dates: 22nd – 30th October Age guidance: 4+ To book: 0121 663 1979 or Time: 10am – 5pm As the old shop librarian reads stories, [email protected] Admission: Adult £16.95; Child £8.45; they come to life in the library! aspire-sports.co.uk Aston Hall Age 0 - 4 free entry Children can then meet the puppets and Trinity Road, Aston, Birmingham, B6 6JD Enjoy hunting for gruesome things? create their own puppet in a workshop birminghammuseums.org.uk/aston Prepare to be disgusted and delighted afterwards. 0121 675 4722 over half term! Jewellery Quarter Museum Family craft activity: Botanical Gardens 75-80 Vyse Street, Hockley, Wax and Ink Portraits Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B18 6HA Date:26th Oct Birmingham, B15 3TR birminghammuseums.org.uk/jewellery Times: 11 – 3pm birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk 0121 348 8140 Admission: £1 per Child 0121 454 1860 Crafty Kids Workshops Go along to Aston Hall’s historic paintings Date: 26th – 27th October collection and get inspired by the Half Term Fun Dates: Half term week Time: 1pm - 3pm. artists on display as you create bold and Admission: £4 per child colourful portraits using wax and ink. Time: 10am – 5pm Entry fee: Adult £7; Child £4.75 Pre-booking essential. Fun Fest Drop in. Come along to our family-friendly make Venue 1: St. Martin’s School, Solihull and take craft activities. Watch your kids Venue 2: The Deanery Church of England getting crafty! Primary School, Sutton Coldfield Symphony Hall To book: 0121 274 0255 [email protected] Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EA, fun-fest.co.uk thsh.co.uk 0121 780 3333 Just Camps The Next Step – Wild Rhythm Tour Venue: St. Peter’s School, Whitefields Rd, (Step 2) Solihull, B91 3NZ Date: 25th October Times: 9 - 3:30pm Times: 12.30pm (Extended day 8.30am-5.30pm) Admission: £31.50+ To book: 07716 926 147 or Following two sell-out shows, The Next [email protected] Step Wild Rhythm Tour is back! justcamps.co.uk Cast members performing on The Next The Strings Club Step Wild Rhythm Tour include: Victoria Award winning musically themed school Baldesarra (Michelle); Trevor Tordjman holiday childcare. (James) and Jordan Clark (Giselle). Venues in Harborne. Town Hall, Birmingham 8.30 – 5.45pm Victoria Square, Birmingham, B3 3DQ To book: 0121 296 9204 or thsh.co.uk [email protected] 0121 780 3333 thestringsclub.org Super Camps At Super Camps your children will enjoy multi-activity, RAW adventure, workshops, and much more. Venue: Dame Elizabeth Cadbury Woodbrooke Road, Bournville, Birmingham, B30 1UL Times: To book: 01235 467300 supercamps.co.uk Steve Backshall’s Wild World Ultimate Activity Camps Date: 29th October Venue: King Edward VI High School, Times: 11am Edgbaston Park Road, Edgbaston, Admission: £21 Birmingham, B15 2UB Age Guidance: 8+ Times: 9.30 – 4.30pm Following two sold out performances last (Extended day 8.30 – 5.15pm) year, wildlife TV presenter, adventurer, To book: 0844 870 7077 or naturalist and writer Steve Backshall, takes [email protected] us on a tour of the real life expeditions ultimateactivity.co.uk that have inspired his books. Prepare for a wild journey, illustrated with photos Please check the organiser’s website in and films. case of changes to schedule. Thank you 20 Issue 35 What’s on at Hallowe’en & Bonfire Night

HALF TERM HOLIDAY CHILDCARE

Fireworks Night There are plenty of fireworks celebrations across the West Midlands Wrap up warm… and don’t forget to follow the fireworks safety code! Ten ‘chilling’ Hallowe’en BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL MOSELEY ROUND TABLE GARDENS wmtsocial.weebly.com birminghambotanicalgardens.org. Charity Fireworks Display events. Go - if you dare! uk, 0121 454 1860 Date: 5th November Celebration of Light with Time: Gates open at 5pm Spooky Hallowe’en Wicked Workshop and Terror Trail Fireworks Admission: tbc Go along to Birmingham Botanical Who’s brave enough to follow the spooky Date: 5th November Gardens for a Spooky Spectacle as terror trail around the park? Have you the SOLIHULL ROUND TABLE Time: 5pm Tudor Grange Park, B91 3LU the night draws in! nerve to take part in a creepy craft activity? Admission: Adult £7; Child £4.75 Don’t forget to wear your scariest Be sure to wear your most frightening solihull.gov.uk/events costume! Hallowe’en costume for a chance to win the DRAYTON MANOR PARK Charity Fireworks Display Venue: Birmingham Botanical fancy dress competition - there are prizes draytonmanor.co.uk, 0844 472 Date: 5th November Gardens, Westbourne Road, B15 for the most horrifyingly dressed boy and 1950 Time: Gates open at 5.30pm 3TR girl! Movie, Fireworks and Laser Admission: tbc Date: 30th October Venue: Elmdon Park, B92 9EY Spectacular WEST MIDLANDS SAFARI Start time: 11am Date: 26th October Date: 28th – 30th October birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk Time: 11.00am - 1.00pm Time: last admission 6pm PARK wmsp.co.uk, 01299 400700 Pumpkin Week Admission: £1.00 per child Admission: £39; £29; £6 solihull.gov.uk/events Firework Festival A Hallowe’en-themed week at TAMWORTH CASTLE Date: 5th Nov Hatton Adventure World with a Monster Mini-Beasts for Tots GROUNDS Gates open: 2pm free pumpkin for every child. A Dress up your tots ghoulishly for the Bonfire lit: 6.30pm full day’s programme of farmyard monster mini beast hunt. Then it’s time to tamworth.gov.uk/castle-grounds Fireworks Event Date: 6th Nov fun, with indoor and outdoor play. play some ghastly games! Gates open: 1pm Venue: Hatton Country World Venue: The Parkridge Centre, Brueton Park, Date: 5th November Time: 6pm Bonfire lit: 5.30pm Dark Lane, Hatton, Warwick, CV35 B91 3HW Admission: £14 per person 8XA Date: 27 October Admission: Free Dates: 22nd - 30th October Time: 10.30 – 12pm Times: 10am to 5.30pm Admission: £4.50 per child Admission: Adults £14.95; Child Age suitability: 2 – 4 years £14.95; Under 2s free *Booking recommended, call 0121 704 0768 hattonworld.com Haunting Hallowe’en Family Fun Days - Wrap up your little ones warm, to hunt Hallowe’en 2016 scary creatures, monsters and the resident Little Spooky outdoor trail and take- witch Smelly Nelly! Wear frightening fancy home activities. dress for a chance to win our competition. Venue: Packwood House, Spooky stories and creepy craft activity Packwood Ln, Lapworth, Solihull, included. Monsters B94 6AT Bring a torch. Dates: 22nd - 30th October Venue: Brueton Park, B91 3HA Funfest Times: 11 – 3.30pm Date: 29th October Admission: Normal admission Times: 5.30pm; 5.50pm; 6.10pm; 6.30pm; charge plus a £2.50 charge for the 6.50pm trail and take home activities Admission: Adult £3; Child £2 nationaltrust.org.uk/packwood-house *Booking essential, call 0121 704 8000 Family Fun Days - Spooky Spectacular Come along for witches, ghosts and eerie Hallowe’en 2016 tales! An event full of family fun, spooky Spooky outdoor trail and take- shows and a scarecrow trail. Be one of the home activities. first to experience the torchlight tours of Venue: Baddesley Clinton, Rising ‘Land of the Living Dinosaurs’… in the dark! Ln, Knowle, Solihull, B93 0DQ Venue: West Midland Safari Park. Bewdley, Dates: 22nd - 30th October DY12 1LF 24th - 30th October Times: 11 – 3.30pm Date: 1st – 31st October Admission: Normal admission Get your gory glad rags on and join Times: 10am – 5pm weekdays; 10am – 9pm charge plus a £2.50 charge for the us for some Halloween half term fun! weekends and half term. trail and take home activities Admission: Adult £22; Child £17; Under 3s There will be; pond dipping, spooky nationaltrust.org.uk/baddesley-clinton free. trails, arts & crafts, bug hunting, live Hallowe’en Horrors wmsp.co.uk animals on Tuesday & Thursday and Are you brave enough to uncover Halloween Lanterns a bouncy castle on Sunday. some haunting Halloween A family-friendly event. Shape willow and beasties in the Parkridge Centre hazel sticks into spooky lanterns by adding For more information please reserves? Or to play some spooky tissue paper and lots of glue. They cast an contact reception or visit games? eerie light, perfect for Halloween. Suitable for children aged 4+ birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk Wear old clothes, you will get messy! Venue: The Parkridge Centre, Venue: The Education Centre, Kingsbury Brueton Park, B91 3HW Find us on: Water Park, Bodymoor Heath Lane, Sutton Date: 25th October Coldfield, B76 0DY Times: 10.30am - 12.00pm Date: 26 October Your support keeps the Admission: £4.50 per child Time: 10.30am to 12pm Gardens growing *Booking recommended, call 0121 Admission: £3.50 per child 704 0768 Booking essential – call 01827 872660

Issue 35 21 Autumn Theatre and Shows www.familiesonline.co.uk

New Alexandra Theatre The Old Rep Theatre Suffolk Street Queensway, Birmingham, Station Street, Birmingham, B5 4DY B5 4DS oldreptheatre.co.uk atgtickets.com, 0121 359 9444 0844 871 3011 Honk! The Musical Sister Act Dates: 14th – 17th September Dates: 12th – 17th Sept Time: 11am; 2pm Times: 2.30pm; 7.30pm Tickets: £15; £14; £10 Tickets: £17.90 - £75.90 Poor Ugly! Ugly is a cygnet who is Come and see a fantastic production rejected by everyone who thinks he is an of Sister Act starring X Factor winner ugly duckling. Presented by the Great Alexandra Burke. Featuring dazzling Barr Musical Theatre Company. dance routines and songs inspired by Motown, soul and disco, Sister Act is the funkiest musical in town. Little Shop of Horrors Age Guidance: No under 3s admitted Dates: 27th Sept – 1st Oct Great news! Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, is Times: 2.30pm; 7.30pm flying in to Birmingham this autumn. Tickets: £17.90 - £43.40 Will the whacky inventor, Potts, his two Age Guidance: 12+ children and Truly Scrumptious outwit A dark and hilarious musical. Seymour Baron Bomburst who has decreed that all Krelborn an assistant in a plant shop children be banished from his kingdom? discovers an exotic plant. While tending Well, come along and see for yourselves! the plant he realises that, to make it B-SIDE Hip-Hop Festival Age Guidance: 4+ thrive, it needs more than ordinary plant Dates: 23rd - 25th Sep With a magician for a Dad and a stargazer food… it needs to eat meat, and lots of it. Times: Various. See website for a Mum, no wonder there’s more to This production stars Rhydian from ITV’s Tickets: free – but selected workshops will Mavis than meets the eye! X Factor. be chargeable Meet Mavis, a chatty cleaner with a You are invited to see a range of feather duster in one hand and a few workshops, talks, pop-up performances, tricks up her sleeve. With help from her film, street dance and b-boy/girl battles, cheeky cuckoo clock, mischievous mop Sutton Coldfield Town Hall Upper Clifton Road, Sutton Coldfield, spoken word, D/VJ’s and graffiti artists. bucket and a nice cup of tea, Mavis B73 6AB B-SIDE Festival features the city’s hip-hop encourages us to follow our dreams and townhallsuttoncoldfield.co.uk talents and local legends. reach for the stars! 0121 464 8990 Birmingham Repertory mac birmingham The King and I Theatre Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH, Dates: 25th – 29th October macbirmingham.co.uk, Time: 7.30pm Evenings; 2.30pm Saturday Centenary Square, Broad St, Birmingham, 0121 446 3232 B1 2EP, Matinee Trikhon Theatre: Rice Paper Tales birmingham-rep.co.uk, Tickets: £16; £14; £12 Date: 11th Sept Box Office: 0121 236 4455 A firm family favourite, set against a Time: 1.30pm; 3.30pm dazzling and exotic backdrop, The King First Stages: Uncle’s Story Shop Tickets: £8 Date: Sat 17 Sep and I is the moving story of Anna, a Age Guidance: 6+ governess, who tries to help this Eastern Times: 11.30am; 2pm A collection of beautiful and captivating Tickets: £9; £6; £2 king to come to terms with the modern Vietnamese folk tales. A special free gift world. The songs include: “I Whistle A Age Guidance: 4 – 7 years for each audience member to take home. Bring your children along for an Happy Tune”, “Getting To Know You”, and Wriggle Dance Theatre: The Colour interactive theatre experience at Uncle’s “Shall We Dance?” Presented by CLOC. Story Shop. Children will be encouraged Of Me George’s Marvellous Medicine to create new stories within the show. Date: 9th October Dates: 22nd Nov – 3rd Dec Can you be the person to help Uncle Time: 11.30am; 2.30pm Times: 10am; 1.30pm; 2.30pm; 6.30pm persuade the developers not to demolish Tickets: £8.50 Tickets: £22.90 Uncle’s shop? Age Guidance: 3 – 7 George’s Marvellous Medicine is produced What colour are you feeling like today? by the Birmingham Stage Company. Explore the beautiful rainbow of emotions A young boy creates a marvellous new that’s inside all of us. There will be live medicine to cure his grandmother of her music and projection in this interactive terrible temper. dance performance. This show delights, But when she drinks his special medicine, tickles and inspires young audiences. unexpected things start to happen. 154 Collective: The Adventures of George’s adventure is just beginning! Walter Lemonface Barclaycard Arena Date: 23rd October King Edwards Rd, Birmingham, B1 2AA Time: 12.30pm; 3pm barclaycardarena.co.uk Tickets: £8 0844 33 88 222 Age Guidance: 3+ Disney On Ice presents Frozen Who has wanted to control what happens Dates: 25th – 30th October in a cartoon? Now you can! Bring your Times: Varied – see website family along for a fun-filled experience. Tickets: £21.05 - £52.55 Join adventurer Walter Lemonface as he The heartwarming Academy Award®- hunts for Rhubarb Ogres, battles ghosts winning tale we all love comes to you as and finds a new adventure around every a full length production live on ice and corner. Town Hall, Birmingham Victoria Square, Birmingham, B3 3DQ skating into Birmingham. Be magically The Nose That Nobody Picked The Amazing Story of Adolphus thsh.co.uk whisked away to wintry Arendelle by Date: 28th October Tips 0121 780 3333 dazzling special effects and astonishing Time: 2pm Dates: 6th – 15th October Tickets: £8 (£5) Captain Flinn & The Pirate skating as you sing and dance along Times: 11am; 2pm; 7.30pm Age Guidance: 5+ Dinosaurs to inspiring songs including “Let It Go.” Tickets: £10 - £37.50 A great show for all the family. Expect Date: 30th October Special appearances by beloved Disney Age Guidance: 7+ tons of mucus, catchy songs and two Times: 1.30pm; 3.30pm Princesses and characters from all-time This production is based on Michael nostrils full of magic. Tickets: £12.50 Disney favourites. Morpurgo’s novel, 946: The Amazing Story One day Christopher, a keen gardener, Come along to be delighted by The Magic Of Adolphus Tips. You can expect the use Birmingham Hippodrome finds a living nose raised by slugs in his Cutlass. It starts when Flinn is in the Hurst Street, Southside, B5 4TB, of music, puppetry and foolishness to tell garden. What is the nose’s past, and what middle of his school play. Mr T the T-Rex, birminghamhippodrome.com, this tale of war, prejudice and love. will be its future? kidnaps his friends. Now they must hunt 0844 338 5000 First Stages: Mavis Sparkle Enjoy the humour of this unlikely trail of for the Magic Cutlass; a sword that grants Chitty Chitty Bang Bang The DOOR at The REP a show. any wish! A fantastic adventure to a world Dates: 7th – 18th Sept Dates: 27th – 29th October of devious dinosaurs, deep sea dangers Always check the organisers’ website Times: Varied – see website Times: 11am; 11.30am; 2pm and smelly sausages! Tickets: £23.50+ Tickets: £9; £6; £2 in case of changes to schedule

22 Issue 35 www.familiesonline.co.uk Magical Christmas Theatre

Be sure to book early Chapterhouse Theatre: step-mother. A Christmas Carol Plenty of laugh-out-loud comedy for the for the best seats in the Dates: 9th – 10th December whole family to enjoy. And the little ones house this Christmas! Time: 8pm will love booing and hissing at the Wicked Tickets: £12 (£10) Queen’s side-kick, Horace the Henchman. Barclaycard Arena Age Guidance: Suitable for the whole Town Hall, Birmingham King Edwards Rd, Birmingham, B1 2AA family. Victoria Square, Birmingham, B3 3DQ barclaycardarena.co.uk It’s Christmas Eve, the most magical thsh.co.uk 0844 33 88 222 night of the year. Ebenezer Scrooge, the 0121 780 3333 Snow White - most famous miser, takes a journey to What the Ladybird Heard The World’s Biggest Panto discover himself. This story is brought laughs and have a thoroughly funny scary Dates: 27th December – 11th January Dates: 19th – 22nd December alive through beautiful period costume, time with your children! Times: 10.30; 11am; 1pm; 3pm Times: 11am; 3pm; 7.30pm song, dance and a magnificent, original The Snowman Tickets: £12 - £17 Tickets: £57.50/ £49.40 / £39.68 / £27.80 musical score. Age Guidance: 3+ An exciting, star studded production of Dates: 11th - 15th January Times: 10.30am; 2pm; 3pm; 7pm The Old Rep Theatre A lovely winter treat for the whole family. a well-loved classic tale. Scary Queen; Station Street, Birmingham, B5 4DY Join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, Spice Girl Mel B and her henchman Tickets: £15 - £37.50 Age Guidance: 3+ oldreptheatre.co.uk the fat red hen and the dainty dog in ‘This Morning’ favourite Rylan plot to 0121 359 9444 this stage adaptation of this colourful make the Queen the fairest of them all. Winter’s coming… what other excuse do you need to book tickets to this beautiful, The Wind in the Willows farmyard adventure. Birmingham Hippodrome enchanting and much-loved story? Dates: 21st Nov – 31st Dec *Book early to avoid disappointment. Hurst Street, Southside, B5 4TB, Come Walking in the Air with the flying Time: Times Vary. See website. birminghamhippodrome.com, snowman, meet Father Christmas and his Tickets: £16.50; £13.50 Always check the organisers’ website 0844 338 5000 friends, along with dancing penguins and A Christmas production of Kenneth in case of changes to schedule The Nutcracker reindeer. Grahame’s classic children’s story. One to Dates: 25th Nov – 13th Dec delight the whole family this promises Competitions. Terms and conditions. Times: 1pm; 2pm; 2.30pm; 7.30pm to be a playful take of the story of Mole, 1. Only one entrant from the same email account will be accepted. Tickets: £19+ Ratty and Badger. Can the three friends 2. Under 16s must obtain parental consent before entering. The Hippodrome welcomes back The keep Mr Toad out of trouble? 3. Entries must be received by the closing date stated on Nutcracker which has been part of the each individual competition. Proof of entering cannot be Sutton Coldfield Town Hall taken as proof of receipt. Birmingham’s Christmas tradition for 25 Upper Clifton Road, Sutton Coldfield, 4. All decisions of Families Birmingham are final and no years. correspondence will be entered into. B73 6AB 5. No prize is exchangeable for cash or any other prize. Young Clara is swept away into a magical townhallsuttoncoldfield.co.uk 6. Winners’ contact details will be supplied to the Promoter of each competition. winter wonderland of dancing snowflakes 0121 464 8990 and the Sugar Plum Fairy. The perfect 7. Families Birmingham is not liable for any delay or failure The Core Theatre Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of Christmas treat for the entire family! Solihull Theatre Square, Touchwood, the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection Dates: 16th – 30th December Homer Road, Solihull, B91 3RG, with the competition. Time: 11am; 2pm; 3pm; 7pm 8. By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk, Tickets: £10 - £23 have accepted and agreed to these terms and conditions. 0121 704 6962 9. Winning entries will be randomly drawn from all correct RWP proudly presents ‘Snow White and entries and contacted via the email account provided Dick Whittington the Seven Dwarfs’. A traditional, timeless by the entrant. If Families Birmingham does not obtain a Dates: 9th – 31st December response from the winner within 24 hours, we reserve the tale of Snow White who befriends the right to select another winner at random. Times: 10.30am; 11am; 2.30pm; 3pm; 7pm Seven Dwarfs in the magical forest, 10. This competition is restricted to residents of the West Tickets: £16 whilst running away from her wicked Midlands only. Age Guidance: Suitable for whole family. It’s panto time again – oh yes it is! This Christmas you are invited to join Dick and his cat on their adventures as they run 6 - 15 away to London looking for their fortune. Instead they set sail for... goodness knows OCTOBER Dick Whittington where! Dates: 25th Nov – 13th Dec Times: 1pm; 2pm; 2.30pm; 7.30pm Genting Arena Tickets: £19+ Exhibition Way, Birmingham, B40 1PA Age Guidance: No under 3s admitted gentingarena.co.uk Birmingham Hippodrome presents 0844 33 88 222 the classic rags-to-riches tale Dick Best Ever Christmas Show and the Whittington. A star studded cast includes: Story of Jack Frost John Barrowman, Steve McFadden, The Date: 30th December Krankies, Matt Slack & Jodie Prenger. Time: tbc Expect plenty of laughs, outrageous Tickets: Family tickets from £74.40 costumes, wonderful sets and scenery, Don’t miss the sing-along, dance- and some amazing special effects. along, clap-along, snow-filled Best Ever Birmingham Repertory Christmas Show coming to Birmingham’s Barclaycard Arena this Christmas. It’s fun, Theatre fun, fun all the way! Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EP, mac birmingham birmingham-rep.co.uk, Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, B12 9QH, Box Office: 0121 236 4455 macbirmingham.co.uk, Kneehigh, in association with Treasure Island 0121 446 3232 Birmingham Repertory Theatre Dates: 25th Nov – 7th Jan and Berkeley Repertory Theatre, presents Times: 10.15am; 11am; 2pm; 2.30pm; 7pm Tickets: £10 - £37.50 946: THE AMAZING Age Guidance: 7+ This production of Treasure Island promises to be a modern adaptation of STORY OF this classic tale. A thrilling, swashbuckling voyage full of challenges and adventure. ADOLPHUS TIPS Room on the Broom Ages Dates: 22nd Dec – 8th Jan Pins & Needles: The Bear Adapted by Michael Morpurgo and Emma Rice 7+ Date: 5th – 31st December Times: 10.30am; 11am; 12.30pm; 1.30pm; The heart-warming tale of one 2.30pm; 3pm Time: 10am; 1.30pm; 6pm Tickets: £13 Tickets: £12.50 girl and her very adventurous cat Age Guidance: 3+ Age Guidance: 3+ Here’s another chance to see this popular Looking after a bear is exhausting. You BOX OFFICE BOOK ONLINE 0121 236 4455 BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK story turned into a theatrical production have to give it a bath and clear up its poo! following a sell-out run at The REP in This is what Tilly discovers after a snowy Registered in England 295910 | Charity No.223660 2014. Join in with the songs, enjoy the white bear climbs into her room one winter’s night.

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