familylife Inside... Summer 2017 Your summer guide to six weeks of holiday fun Classic car shows Family fun days Don’t miss... Your chance to dance and shine 2 - familylife familyfamilylife - 3 Welcome to the summer Contents issue of Family Life Health and wellbeing from arts and culture to kids camps, pitch Get Active 4 is a major priority and putt, shopping, theatre and canal trails and spending time on pages 6 and 7. We’ve also got classic Summer Staycation 6 outdoors with the car shows, interactive library events and family is a great way events for a good cause. to encourage lifestyle In September we’ll be celebrating all the Family fun days 8 improvements that great things about our town and want benefit all of us. everyone to get involved in the Your Oldham Your chance to dance 10 Here in Oldham we Festival (pages 24 and 25). This exciting are blessed to be week-long programme of events offers nestling between chances to go green, digital or even take Shine with music and rhyme 11 the Pennines – and part in archery and caving. There’s also to be surrounded by ‘Events in a Box’ on offer: free packs which Oldham’s magical maze 12 35 stunning parks, provide everything you need to organise a reservoirs, moorlands and nature reserves. cracking street party with your family and This is the perfect time to get out and neighbours. A Bee-utiful day out 13 enjoy them. As ever our handy Events Planner is We’ve got a huge range of activities available to help you find the events most Events Planner 14 and events on offer, so please keep this suitable for you and your family on pages guide handy as your essential source of 14–17. Events for a good cause 18 information and inspiration for things to do You can also keep up to date with our over the summer. events via social media or by signing up Classic Car Shows and Yanks weekend 19 There are some great ideas for traditional to our free e-newsletter using our contact games to help Get Oldham Active on pages details on the bottom of page 28. 4 and 5, followed by information about Finally, for those with children due to start Interactive events at Oldham’s libraries 20 the best places to spend time across the primary school or move to secondary borough. There’s also details of family fun school in September 2018, there’s guidance days and events featuring dance, music and Outdoor exploration 22 on important dates and things to do to rhyme, and much more. make sure your child is school ready on Oldham town centre will again be hosting page 26. Your Oldham Festival 24 some great family events this summer. If you have any feedback about the services First up is our annual Flower Festival in July we provide – or Family Life – please tell School Admissions 26 featuring The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and us what you think by sending an email to the chance to take part in planting and [email protected] crafts or visit our Shed of Stories. We are Become a school governor/30 hours free childcare 27 also having bee-related activities at Gallery Have a fantastic summer. Oldham with beekeeping experts, and even Cinema competition 28 the chance to catch Bee Movie (page 13). If you’re choosing to have a summer ‘staycation’ then we’ve got a guide to top Cllr Jean Stretton attractions across Oldham offering anything Leader of Oldham Council 4 - familylife familyfamilylife - 5 Get Oldham Active Make the most of the longer and warmer days by spending more time with your Hopscotch family outdoors this summer. Draw a series of numbered squares on a Being active can make you happier, help hard surface with some washable chalk. with those niggling health problems and is a great way of bonding with your family. Throw a small object such as a beanbag or a stone onto one of the squares and Why not try playing some of these hop or jump through the squares to traditional games? They will keep you retrieve the object. If you miss the and your family active and entertained square, your turn is over. for hours – important when you have the summer holidays to fill. Our parks are What time is it Duck Duck Goose perfect Mr Wolf? Make the most of our lovely Players sit in a circle facing each local parks by setting up First choose a player to be Mr Wolf. other while one person is “it”. your games there. There’s 35 to choose from. There’s Mr Wolf then stands apart from the The player who is “it” walks around other players with their back turned. Blind Man’s Bluff lots of open space along the circle and taps the other players with many other facilities for The players call out “What time is it Mr on the head calling each a “duck” A different take of the classic game, tig. The player you and your family to enjoy Wolf?” whilst walking towards the Wolf. until they call one a “goose”. who is “it” wears a blindfold and tries to tag the throughout the summer other players. The person who is tagged is then “it”. months and beyond. The Wolf turns around to say a time and Once someone is a “goose” they For more information visit: then turns their back towards the other get up and chase “it” around the For other ideas on getting active this summer visit: www.oldham.gov.uk/ players again. circle with the aim being to tap them www.oldham.gov.uk/getoldhamactive before “it” can sit down in the place parks This is repeated until the players get very the “goose” had been sitting. close to the Wolf at which point the Wolf will respond with “It’s dinner time!” and If “it” is successful the “goose” try to catch one of the other players – becomes “it” and play continues. the person who is caught then If the “goose” manages to tag becomes the Wolf. “it” the “goose” returns to their place and “it” starts again.

Share your pictures from these activities by using the hashtag: #GetOldhamActive 6 - familylife familylife - 7 Theatre Saddleworth Museum The borough is home to various theatre Be mesmerised by the story of the Summer venues, each hosting unique family people who have created Saddleworth’s friendly shows across the year. landscape and character. The museum Whether it’s a visit to the Oldham has something for all ages, with activities Coliseum or the Playhouse2, there’s and exhibitions that the whole family will something for everyone. enjoy. After your trip why not discover Staycation Find out more: www.visitoldham.com/ Uppermill and try the independent cafes attractions/theatre and tearooms, boutiques, toy and Is home your holiday Pitch and putt gift shops? destination this year? Take in Oldham’s glorious scenery Find out more: while trying to hit a hole in one at Bishops Parks and www.saddleworthmuseum.co.uk Make this summer’s staycation Park, Grains Bar. For adults and kids alike countryside centres one to remember with some of this is a great way to enjoy an afternoon. Canal trails our top picks across Oldham. Find out more: Wonderful woodlands, waterways and www.bishopsparkpitchandputt.co.uk/ wildflower meadows can be found at the Grab your walking boots and a picnic Gallery Oldham three countryside centres at Brownhill, and enjoy a peaceful walk down the Dove Stone Reservoir Daisy Nook and Tandle Hills. You could Huddersfield Narrow Canal or Jump into arts and culture with the family even relax in one of Oldham’s many parks Rochdale Canal with the family. and view a range of brilliant exhibitions Why not take a picnic and enjoy the or see what activities are taking place There’s even an audio trail that you across the gallery. Keep a look out on its tranquillity of the reservoir? at the Castleshaw Centre. can listen to while walking along the calendar for the latest events, tours and Or get involved in family activities that Find out more: www.visitoldham.com/ Huddersfield Narrow Canal. activities. Find out more: take place across the summer? attractions/countryside Find out more: www.galleryoldham.org.uk Find out more: www.rspb.org.uk www.visitoldham.com/activities/ and search Dove Stone Spindles Town Square canal-trails-and-trips Oldham Community Shopping Centre Leisure Kids’ Camp Old Town Hall and Between Monday 24 July and Friday 25 ODEON cinema Browse the range of retail shops in the August young ones can join in the Kids’ town centre and grab a coffee from one Enjoy a film with something to eat at Camp at Radclyffe School, Hunt Lane, of the cafes or eateries while the kids our historic Old Town Hall. There’s plenty Chadderton, OL9 OL8. It’s £12.75 per enjoy the town centre playground or on offer for you to choose from. child, per day. It involves lots of fun Shopping Susie’s Kids Club (Find out Find out more: games to keep the kids active. more about the club in our events www.odeon.co.uk/cinema/oldham/ Find out more: oclactive.co.uk planner on pages 14–17). There’s also up to three hours free town Small Cinema centre car parking at weekends at all What’s a summer holiday without council-owned sites. Simply take a ticket watching a classic film? Go along to the and display it in your vehicle Small Cinema and watch Chitty Chitty on arrival. Find out more: Bang Bang on Saturday 19 August at www.spindlestownsquare. 2pm. You can also get creative before it com/visitor-information/ starts with fun film-related arts activities from 12noon. Share your pictures from these Find out more: activities by using the hashtag: www.thesmallcinema.com #LoveOldham 8 - familylife familylife - 9

Oldham Play Action Park Family National Playday Sunday 13 August, 12noon–3pm, free Wednesday 2 August, 1–4pm, free Come and enjoy a day of exciting Celebrate a child’s right to play and have activities including the space hopper Fun Days Grand Prix, big ball volleyball, wacky fun with Oldham Play Action Group. Create at the modelling zone, climb hay races, traditional games – including welly We’ve picked out some of the best family fun bales until the sun goes down and attempt throwing – and an assault course. days in Oldham for you to enjoy. From sports to polish up your circus skills. There’s even a DJ so you can enjoy your activities at Coalshaw Green to craft activities favourite songs. at Dawson’s Field, there’s lots on offer – just Chadderton Hall Park, Chadderton, Oldham, Royton Park, Royton, Oldham, OL2 6WH pop down to one of the events on the day and OL9 0QB E: [email protected] take part in all the exciting activities. E: playactiongroup@ T: 0161 770 1680 hotmail.com Dunwood Park Dawson’s Field T: 0161 678 9662 Stoneleigh Park Sunday 23 July and Sunday 20 August, Thursday 27 July, 11am–3pm, free Wednesday 23 August, 1–4pm, free 1–4pm, free Grab your picnic box and head to Come along for a full day of fun in Brush up on your craft skills and create Dawson’s Field for a day of exciting beautiful Stoneleigh Park. Bounce on the something to take home with you. Join activities including arts and crafts, range of inflatables, win with the tombola, the fun arts and crafts activities in our tombola, traditional stalls and more. get involved with arts and crafts and more. award winning park. Under 8s must be Dawson’s Field, Huddersfield Road, accompanied by a responsible adult. Stoneleigh Park, Oldham, OL1 4TG Scouthead, Oldham, OL4 4AS T: 0161 770 4621 Dunwood Park, Oldham, OL2 7UQ E: [email protected] E: [email protected] T: 0161 770 8416 T: 0161 678 9662

Coalshaw Green Park Wednesday 26 July, 1–3pm, free Bring your trainers for the multisport, get creative with arts and crafts and release your inner explorer with Xplorer orienteering sessions. You can also practice your skateboarding skills, all while listening to your favourite songs. Coalshaw Green, Oldham, OL9 8JR E: [email protected] Don’t forget to share your pictures T: 07542769509 from the day using the hashtag: #LoveOldham 10 - familylife familylife - 11 Your chance Shine with to dance music and rhyme Dancing isn’t just fun – it’s also very good for your youngster’s health. It helps strengthen bones and Children like to express themselves improves balance, agility, co-ordination and speed. through the sounds they hear and See what your budding dancers can get involved parents can use music to calm and with... soothe them. Even at an early age Early Starters infants sway, bounce and move their hands to the music. We’ve put Anyone can join a library, start borrowing Dance Camps Intensive Dance together some musical events for books and using the computers straight Failsworth (Ages 6+) 21–25 August, away – why not sign your little ones up? Summer Sessions you and the little ones to enjoy. 10am–3pm daily, £10 per day, A membership is easy to get, (Ages 13+) Higher Failsworth Primary School, free and for life. Bounce and Rhyme Failsworth, Manchester, M35 9EA From Monday 31 July – Friday, Find out more: 10am–3pm, £50 for the week (Ages 0–18 months) Royton (Ages 6+) 7–11 August, www.oldham.gov.uk/libraries , Oldham, OL9 6AA 10am–3pm daily, £10 per day, These sessions bring together parents , Broadway, These sessions aim to provide young and carers of babies up to 18 months to Musical Beginnings Royton, OL2 5BF dancers with a range of styles to try improve co-ordination and more. Just including ballet, tap, jazz, commercial, visit one of the sessions to experience an Got a young musician in the family? Budding dancers can twist and pump street, musical theatre, contemporary, afternoon of songs, stories and rhymes, Oldham’s Music Service offers babies their way to fitness at these street dance body conditioning and more. sensory play and musical instruments. and toddlers the chance to pick up an sessions. Children can learn fun routines instrument and learn about music from and perform for all the family at the end Places are limited, to book: The sessions are weekly and there’s no need to book, just turn up. a young age. The sessions include of the week. E: [email protected] singing, dancing, stories and musical T: 0161 770 4054 Places are limited, to book: To find your nearest session visit: instrument exploration. E: [email protected] www.oldham.gov.uk/libraries The Lyceum Building, Union Street, T: 0161 770 4054 Something different Oldham, OL1 1QG Stories and Rhyme Baby Ballet (Ages 0–4) To book or to find out more: E: [email protected] The younger dancers can try Introduce your little readers to library T: 0161 770 5660 ballet and tap at these magical books and help them develop language new sessions. The classes and communication skills from an are open to babies, tots, early age. toddlers, pre-schoolers and school starters. These free sessions are held weekly and there is no need to book – just 1 Cromford Street, OL1 4EA come along and have fun. To book or to find out more: To find your nearest session visit: E: [email protected] www.oldham.gov.uk/libraries T: 07731 455 533 www.babyballet.co.uk 12 - familylife familylife - 13 Summer fun Can you help Larry the ladybird find his way out of the maze and reunite him with all his friends? Then, why not colour them all in? Saturday 15 July, Oldham town centre, free Explore the beauties of nature this Bee Day summer by taking part in loads of exciting 11am–4pm, free events and activities happening in Oldham town centre. Don’t miss our annual Flower Gallery Oldham will become a hive of Festival, where you and the children can activity with a day of fun bee-related meet The Very Hungry Caterpillar and find activities for all the family. Meet Oldham’s out more about bees. bees, taste their delicious honey and find out more from our beekeeping experts. Oldham Flower Festival Gallery Oldham, Greaves Street, 11am–4pm, free Oldham, OL1 1AL Go wild at this year’s Flower Festival. E: [email protected] Come and meet The Very Hungry T: 0161 770 4653 Caterpillar, who will be making appearances at intervals throughout The Small Cinema: the day. Listen to tall tales in our Shed Bee Movie (U) of Stories and take part in planting 2pm, £3.50 and craft activities. Buzz down and see this fun family Look out for Blossom, the Bloom and film, as part of Bee Day activities at Grow mascot, and watch mesmerising Gallery Oldham. flower demonstrations with TV’s star gardener Katie Rushworth. Oldham Library Performance Space, Oldham, OL1 1AL Parliament Square, Oldham Town T: 0161 770 4742 Centre, OL1 1QN www.thesmallcinema.com E: [email protected] T: 0161 770 4516

Did you know?... Honey bees fly at a speed of around 25km per hour and beat their wings 200 times per second.

Share your pictures from the day using the hashtag: #LoveOldham 14 - familylife familylife - 15

Oldham Play Action Family Step out for Stroke Summer Holiday Sessions Fun (All the family) (All the family) Monday 24 July, 31 July, Sunday 23 July, 1–3pm, free Wednesday 26 July, 10am–12noon, free Bond as a family at these 11am–1pm, free Everyone is welcome at these fun Events Planner sessions and try your hand at Show your support and take part holiday sessions. The activities Hub Explorers Jubacana Dunwood Park Band arts, crafts and games. in this fun sponsored walk for vary each week and will include stoke survivors, their family and (All the family) (Ages 8–18) Concert Dunwood Park, Shaw, multi-sports, circus skills, arts Oldham, OL2 8BQ friends and the local community. Every Saturday, Every Friday (term time only), Sunday 16 July, 2–4pm, free and crafts and more. Booking is essential, to book: Kings Road, Oldham, OL8 2BN 10am–12noon, free 6–7.30pm, £4 There’s nothing better than the George Street Play Area, Shaw, E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Bring out the explorer in you and Be part of a percussion and sounds of brass. Come and Oldham, OL2 8HG T: 0161 678 9662 T: 0161 621 3584 get involved with wildlife, safari, dance collective, create fusion watch Dobcross Brass Monkeys E: [email protected] seed sowing harvesting, growing music and choreography with top in concert in the beautiful T: 07542769509 produce and more. tutors from the UK and Brazil. Dunwood Park. Summer Family Activities The Hub, Alexandra Park, The Old Museum, Greaves Street, Dunwood Park, Shaw, (4–10 years) Summer Holiday Sessions Oldham, OL4 1NL Oldham, OL1 1DN Oldham, OL2 8BQ 24, 25, 31 July, 1–4pm, free Mondays 24 July, 31 July, E: [email protected] Find out more: E: [email protected] (face painting, £2) 1–3pm, free T: 0161 770 4067 www.jubacana.com T: 07840109881 Browse the exciting exhibitions These sessions are for everyone at Gallery Oldham and take part and encourage families to Super Saturdays Laugh a’nory in free creative activities across have fun and try a range of the day. First Saturday of the month, (Ages 6+) different activities. Gallery Oldham, Oldham, OL1 1AL 1–3pm, free High Crompton Park, Shaw, OL2 7JA Saturday 15 July, 11am and E: [email protected] Your little ones love getting E: [email protected] 2.30pm, free T: 0161 770 4742 messy? Bring them along to T: 07542769509 Master storyteller Richard O’Neill www.galleryoldham.org.uk Gallery Oldham where they will be telling some of his best can try artist led craft activities, jokes and stories. (Find out more Oldham Play Action Family Fun ( Summer Family Activities Northern Rolling painting, drawing and about this event on page 21). All the family) Skateboarding Workshops creative fun. Every Tuesday from 25 July – (4–10 years) Oldham Library, Greaves Street, Wednesday 26 July, Gallery Oldham, Oldham, OL1 1AL 29 August, 1–3pm, free 1, 7, 8, 14, 15 August, 1–4pm, Oldham, OL1 1AL 1pm–3pm, free E: [email protected] Try something different as a family free (face painting, £2) Booking is essential as places are Fancy gaining the skills to help T: 0161 770 4742 – get involved with cooking, crafts Browse the exciting exhibitions limited, to book: Baby Yoga you become the next Tony Hawk? www.galleryoldham.org.uk E: [email protected] (4 months – crawling) and growing activities. at Gallery Oldham and take part in free creative activities across Then come along to Thursday 20 July, 1.30–2.30pm Greenacres Community Centre, the day. these ‘drop-in’ sessions. Stories and Rhymes Hollinwood Together These soothing sessions aid your Galland Street, Greenacres, Coaches will teach children the Gallery Oldham, Oldham, OL1 1AL (0–4 years) Festival – Flavours of baby’s development, improves Oldham, OL4 3EU basics of the board. Booking is essential, to book: E: [email protected] Weekly, various times, free Hollinwood co-ordination and balance. Coalshaw Green Park, Coalshaw E: [email protected] T: 0161 770 4742 Share rhymes and songs at Oldham Library, Greaves Street, Green Road, Chadderton, OL9 8JR Sunday 16 July, 12noon–4pm, T: 0161 678 9662 www.galleryoldham.org.uk these fun activities for the under Oldham, OL1 1AL E: [email protected] free 5’s which take place at various Booking is essential as places are Get together with other members Oldham Play Action Group T: 07971688339 libraries in Oldham. limited, to book: of the community and enjoy a Chadderton Oldham Library, Greaves Street, family fun day with stalls, food, E: [email protected] (All the family) Oldham, OL1 1AL music and entertainment. T: 07772 193618 Monday 31 July and 7 August, To book: Limeside Park, First Avenue, 1–3pm, free E: [email protected] Oldham, OL8 3SH Shopping Susie’s Kids Club Children can play games, get E: [email protected] (4–10 years) messy with crafts and unlock Oldham Junior Parkrun T: 07786110914 Saturday 22 July, 11am–3pm, their drawing potential. Children (Ages 4–14) free under 8 must be accompanied. Every Sunday, from 9am, free Come and join Shopping Susie Chadderton Hall Park, Children can take part in this for a messy craft workshop. Oldham, OL9 0QB fun non-competitive 2k run Spindles Town Square Shopping Booking is essential, to book: every week to keep them fit and Centre, George Street, E: [email protected] healthy. First time? Don’t forget Oldham, OL1 1HD T: 0161 678 9662 to register. E: [email protected] Kings Road, Oldham, OL8 2BN T: 0161 628 5891 www.parkrun.org.uk/alexandra- www.spindlestownsquare.com juniors/ 16 - familylife familylife - 17

Tis Written in the Stars Shopping Susie’s Summer Small Cinema: Holiday fun at Your Oldham Festival of Fun ( Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (U) Gallery Oldham (All the family) 4–10 years) 2–9 September, Friday 26–29 July, 7.30pm Wednesday 2 August and 9 Saturday 19 August, 12noon, 24–15 August, 1–4pm, free various times, free full: £9, concessions: £6 August, 11am–3pm, free £3.50, includes goodie bag Bring the family along to these Celebrate everything that’s great The boy who lives at number 42 Summers here and Shopping with drink and popcorn for fun sessions for the family about Oldham at this week-long Oak View Drive is anything but Susie is inviting youngsters to a all kids. and create brilliant crafts to festival of interactive events in ordinary. He sees things he can’t themed craft workshop. A classic film for everyone to take home. Oldham town centre. explain and when things happen Spindles Town Square Shopping enjoy. An inventor turns a For more information and a Oldham town centre and for real, the story unfolds. Centre, George Street, broken-down Grand Prix car full timetable visit: Gallery Oldham Oldham Coliseum, Oldham, OL1 3SW Oldham, OL1 1HD into a fantasy vehicle and they Gallery Oldham, Cultural Quarter, Find out more: To book tickets: E: [email protected] go on a magical adventure to Greaves Street, Oldham, OL1 1AL E: [email protected] www.coliseum.org.uk T: 0161 628 5891 save their Grandfather in a www.galleryoldham.org.uk www.youroldham.coop www.spindlestownsquare.com Oldham Play Action Group far-off land. Saddleworth Rushcart Glow Walk – Foxdenton (All the family) Gallery Oldham, Cultural Quarter, Oldham Histories Festival Greaves Street, Oldham, OL1 1AL (All the family) Thursdays 10, 17, 24 and 31 Saturday 26–Sunday 27 and Heritage Open Days www.facebook.com/ August, 9.30am–6.30pm, free Saturday 29 July, August, 1–3pm, free Thursday 7–Sunday 10 TheSmallCinema Don’t miss the local Morris Men 10pm–3am, free Children can play games, get September, various costs as they tour round local villages A sponsored walk with 11 mile messy with crafts and get Get the chance to find out more in Saddleworth. There’s also and 8 mile options. With a dance creative. Children under 8 must about the history of the people, Annual Flower wrestling, music and singing warm up before setting off. be accompanied. places and buildings in your area. Foxdenton Park, Foxdenton Lane, and Vegetable across the day. An event not There’s plenty to discover. Starting from Oldham Event Centre, Show to be missed. Royton, Oldham, OL2 5BL Chadderton, Oldham, OL9 9QS Various locations in Oldham Saturday www.saddleworthmorrismen.co.uk/ E: fundraising@drkershawshospice. Booking is essential, to book: town centre 19 August, org.uk E: [email protected] E: [email protected] T: 0161 678 9662 2–5pm, free Back to School Madness T: 0161 770 4654 T: 0161 624 9984 See all the great (4–10 years) Shopping Susie’s Summer produce grown Saturday 2 September, Shopping Susie’s Kids Club Dogford Park Summer Summer Holiday Sessions by the community. of Fun (4–10 years) 11am–3pm, free (4–10 years) Funday Mondays 7 August, 14 August, There’s even a Grab your wand and enjoy some Wednesday 16 August, Saturday 23 September, Sunday 30 July, 1–4pm, free 21 August, 28 August, 1–3pm, chance to buy wizarding fun in Spindles before 11am–3pm, free 11am–3pm, free (small cost for races) free produce at going back to school. Summers here and Shopping Back to school blues? Get crafty Hula hoop, tug and try to race These sessions are for everyone auction after the Susie is inviting youngsters to a Spindles Town Square Shopping at the kids club and create your way to be the champion of and encourage families to show. have fun and try a range of themed craft workshop. Centre, George Street, something to take home. the egg and spoon race at this Sholver and Oldham, OL1 1HD different activities. Spindles Town Square Shopping Spindles Town Square Shopping fun day. There’s also a raffle, Moorside Hub, E: [email protected] Centre, George Street, Centre, George Street, tombola, treasure hunt and more. High Crompton Park, Shaw, Moorside, Oldham, T: 0161 628 5891 Oldham, OL1 1HD Oldham, OL1 1HD Dogford Park, Royton, Oldham, OL2 7JA OL1 4NT www.spindlestownsquare.com E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Oldham, OL2 6TZ E: [email protected] T: 0161 770 4621 T: 0161 628 5891 T: 07542769509 T: 0161 628 5891 T: 07834238758 www.spindlestownsquare.com www.spindlestownsquare.com

Shopping Susie’s Summer Northern Rolling Summer Holiday Sessions Shopping Susie’s Kids Club of Fun (4–10 years) Skateboarding Workshops Mondays 7 August, 14 August, (4–10 years) Wednesday 23 August, Wednesdays 2 August, 9 21 August, 28 August, Saturday 19 August, August, 16 August, 23 August, 10am–12noon, free 11am–3pm, free 11am–3pm, free Enjoy a day of crafts with 30 August, 1pm–3pm, free Everyone is welcome at these fun Get messy at these craft Fancy gaining the skills to help holiday sessions. The activities Spindles mascot, Shopping workshops and create something Susie. She’ll be helping children you become the next Tony vary each week and will include to take home. multi-sports, circus skills, arts and create crafts to take home. Hawk? Then come along to Spindles Town Square Shopping these ‘drop-in’ sessions. crafts and more. Spindles Town Square Shopping Centre, George Street, Centre, George Street, Coaches will teach children the George Street Play Area, Oldham, OL1 1HD basics of the board. Shaw, Oldham, OL2 8HG Oldham, OL1 1HD E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Coalshaw Green Park, Coalshaw E: [email protected] T: 0161 628 5891 Green Road, Chadderton, OL9 8JR T: 07542769509 T: 0161 628 5891 www.spindlestownsquare.com www.spindlestownsquare.com E: [email protected] T: 07971688339 18 - familfamilyylife familfamilyylife - 19 Events for a Classic Car Shows Yanks Weekend good cause Friday 4 – Sunday 6 August, Royton 10am–6pm, various costs Saturday 15 July, from 9.30am, free Dr Kershaw’s Hospice is a registered charity that provides vital Visit Uppermill for an unforgettable Join Tame Valley Vintage Car Club for care for adults across Oldham and each year they host a range of family day out. The Yanks Weekend Royton’s first ever car show this July. exciting fundraising events. This year you can get blasted in colour brings together military vehicles, Browse the selection of classic cars, have at their annual Colour Blast and watch the River Irk turn yellow re-enactments, dances and wartime some fun and learn about their history. with ducks at their Duck Race and Family Fun Day. entertainment for everyone to enjoy. Royton Park, Royton, OL2 6WH T: 07739553598 Don’t miss the military vehicle Duck race Colour Blast parade, when more than 50 classic and family (All the family) Shaw wartime vehicles make their way fun day 24 September, Saturday 22 July, from 9.30am, free through Uppermill High Street. But For more classic cars come and visit remember, get there early to get the (All the family) 1pm–3pm child (0–16) £8, adult (over 16s) £15, Tara Leisure, Shaw, OL2 8JB best view. T: 07739553598 Saturday 12 August, family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) £42 Uppermill High Street, Oldham, 10.30am–3pm, free Get covered, blasted and showered with Uppermill OL3 6AT www.ww2events.co.uk Quack quack! The duck race is back. coloured powder as you run or walk Sunday 6 August, 8am–4pm, free Browse the selection of independent around Alexandra Park at this fun family Trundle on down to the picturesque village Did you know?... stalls, jump, bounce and spin on the event. It’s a great way to exercise while of Uppermill and browse more than 80 The first event was 16 years ago bouncy castle and enjoy all the children’s having fun. classic and vintage cars on display. The to celebrate the local filming of activities taking place. The yellow duckies event is part of the annual Yanks Weekend the Hollywood movie ‘YANKS’. will be available from Dr Kershaw’s Alexandra Park, Oldham, OL8 2BN [email protected] and aims to raise money for charity. Hospice, schools and charity shops. King George V playing field, T: 0161 624 9984 Send us your pictures from the Chadderton Hall Park, King Street, Uppermill, OL3 6AT www.drkershawshospice.org.uk/ day using the hashtag: Chadderton, OL9 0QB events/colour-blast/ E: [email protected] E: [email protected] T: 0161 865 7684 #LoveOldham T: 0161 624 9984 Tame Valley Sunday 3 September, 7am–6pm, free If you can’t make the first car show don’t worry, Tame Valley Car Club will be zooming into Uppermill later in the year. Just pop down and see all the great motors on show. King George V playing field, King Street, Uppermill, OL3 6AT Send us your pictures from the day on E: [email protected] social media using the hashtag: T: 0161 620 2826 #GetOldhamActive 20 - familylife familylife - 21

Laugh a’nory School Holiday (Ages 6+) Workshops Saturday 15 July, (Ages 4–10) 11am and 2.30pm, free 11am–12noon, all sessions are free Richard O’Neill is a master storyteller and Tuesday 25 July Interactive writer. He’s travelled all over the country and has learned his craft from the very best Wednesday 26 July events at Oldham’s libraries traditional Romany storytellers. Now he’s Tuesday 1 August Our library service provides visitors with more than 380,547 books and 268 here to share his fascinating and hilarious Wednesday 2 August computers. It’s not just the amazing book collection that makes them so special, tales at Oldham Library. Tuesday 8 August it’s also the great family friendly events they host every year. See what’s on and Tuesday 22 August get your tickets before they’re sold out. Oldham Library, Greaves Street, Wednesday 23 August Oldham, OL1 1AL Tuesday 29 August Summer Reading Zoolab –The Animal Booking is essential as places Wednesday 30 August are limited, to book: Budding writers can improve their Challenge Handling Experience E: [email protected] Sign up Saturday – Animal Agents (All ages) creative writing skills at these free workshops. The library team will help Join the Summer Reading Challenge Monday 7 August, 2.30–3.30pm unlock imaginations of children across celebrations at all Oldham Libraries over Oldham Library, free Planet Caravan Oldham and produce a piece of creative the summer holidays. (All ages) Tuesday 8 August, 2.30–3.30pm Friday 28, Saturday 29 July, £4–£5 writing they can be proud of. Read six books and receive your Summer Failsworth Library, free Creator Space, Oldham Library, Reading Challenge medal and certificate Planet Caravan is a wonderful, fun family Greaves Street, Oldham, OL1 1AL with lots of fantastic incentives to collect Wednesday 9 August, 2.30–3.30pm show featuring an intergalactic adventure, Chadderton Library, free along the way. original songs and a caravan. This interactive event is perfect for the young Booking is essential for all To celebrate the launch of the Summer Thursday 10 August, 2.30–3.30pm Crompton Library, free ones and is part of the Open Space Festival. of these events, to book: Reading challenge join storyteller Sophia E: [email protected] Hatfield in her new adaption of classic Get up close and personal with your Oldham Library, Greaves Street, T: 0161 770 8000 animal tales by Rudyard Kipling. All sessions favourite animals and reptiles with Zoolab. www.oldham.gov.uk/libraries are free. Advanced booking essential. These sessions aim to amaze, educate Oldham, and inspire children – which one will OL1 1AL ‘Just Soph’ be your favourite? (Ages 3–7) Saturday 22 July 10am and 12noon, Oldham Library Tuesday 25 July, 10.30am and 12.30pm, Lees Library Tuesday 25 July 3pm, Uppermill Library Wednesday 26 July, 10.30am and 12.30pm, Failsworth Library Wednesday 26 July, 3pm, Royton Library 22 - familyfamilylife familylife - 23

Xplorer Orienteering Exploration at the Hub (All the family) Outdoor These free sessions are perfect for a family introduction to orienteering and Every Saturday, 10am–12noon, free the great outdoors. Just use the map and Hub explorers is a food growing, outdoor work as a team to find all the points. play and learning experience aimed at junior exploration The sessions take place in Chadderton aged children and their parents and carers. and Foxdenton parks. Little gardeners can learn about seed #GetOldhamActive sowing, harvesting, preparing (and eating) , Mondays 24 July, 31 July, 1–3pm produce, cooking in the outdoor oven Chadderton Hall Park, OL9 0QB and more. We’re nestled in between the Pennines Explore Castleshaw , Monday 28 August, 1–3pm The Hub, Alexandra Park, and surrounded by 35 beautiful parks, Foxdenton Park, OL9 9QS moorlands, reservoirs and nature reserves. Roman Forts Oldham, OL8 2BH We’ve picked out some of the best outdoor (All the family) To find out more about the sessions: (accessed via gate on Kings Road) activities and events for you and the family Step back to a time when the soldiers of www.xplorer.org.uk Find out more: to enjoy. war used these forts as a base camp during E: [email protected] military action. Explore the ruins, uncover T: 0161 770 4067 Castleshaw some local history and see if you can picture Holiday Club what it was like all those years ago. Oldham’s parks (Ages 9–13) Find out more about the site: If you’ve got an afternoon spare why Activities run from 9.15am–3.30pm, www.castleshawarchaeology.co.uk not visit one of Oldham’s parks and go various costs for a wander, play some games, or pack a picnic? 31 July–4 August 16th Oldham Way 7–11 August Each park has something different 21–25 August Challenge (All the family) for the whole family to enjoy. 29 August–1 September Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 July, For a full list of parks visit: The centre is situated on the edge of 8.30am, £10 Delph village surrounded by a large www.oldham.gov.uk/parks reservoir and picturesque views. The kids’ Is your family up for a challenge? Spread adrenalin will be pumping as they take part across two days, this non-competitive 40 in activities including caving, slacklining, mile walk takes you over the grand Oldham orienteering, climbing, high rope activities, Way, starting and finishing at Daisy Nook ghyll scrambling and more. Country Park. Perfect as a family challenge or a fun day out with some healthy exercise. Morning breakfast club, To find out more or to book: 8.30–9.15am, £5 E: [email protected] Late pick-up, 3.30–5pm, £5 To find out more and to book: E: [email protected] T: 0161 770 8595 Castleshaw Centre, Waterworks Road, Delph, Oldham, OL3 5LZ Send us your pictures from the events by using the hashtag: #LoveOldham 24 - familylife familylife - 25

Dear Oldham Events in a Box What do your children want Oldham Summer time is here and it’s a perfect to look like in the future? We’d love to time to get together with family and know. We want the next generations friends. As part of the Your Oldham to write a ‘Dear Oldham’ letter, or festival we have put together drawing, to the borough, explaining ‘Events in a Box’ – free boxes with what their hopes are for the town in everything you need to organise a We’re celebratingF alle the greats things tGoi greenv and finda how youl can ‘do the future. This could be what activities cracking street gathering with your about our town and we want everyone your bit’ for the borough and learn how they want in the town, what they want family or neighbours. to get involved. Between Saturday to grow your own plants and veg at the Oldham to look like, or just simply To find out more or to 2 and Saturday 9 September we will Alexandra Park Growing Hub for our what they want to do in Oldham download a pack: be holding the Your Oldham Festival environmental day. in the future. – a celebration of everything that E: [email protected] Go digital with HACK Oldham, try Just grab a piece of paper and pen, makes our borough great. www.youroldham.coop interactive activities and find out how start the letter with ‘Dear Oldham’ and The long term goal of the town is to technology can be used in everyday get the little ones to start writing or have a place where everybody does life. Get ready for a day of fun and add drawing – you could even do it with their bit and everybody benefits. to the Oldham of the Future Skyline. them. You can send in as little or as Take part in crafts, get glittered up with There’s going to be an exciting much as you want. the Glitter Bar, rub shoulders with the programme of family fun events Imperial Stormtroopers and dance with Once the letter is finished take a picture planned over the week-long festival – some special royal guests. and email: [email protected] here’s a taste of what you can expect. To find out more visit: The winning letters and drawings will The entertainment starts with an open www.youroldham.coop be published in a special booklet and day at the beautiful Castleshaw Centre on our social media channels. where you can take part in crafts, archery, caving and more. The deadline to enter your letters and drawings is: Friday 26 August Or post to: Dear Oldham, Room 317, Oldham Civic Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1UG

# 26 - familylife familylife - 27 School Admissions Become a 30 hours don’t miss your deadline school governor free childcare

If your child is starting Primary School (4–11) for working parents of primary school, or moving 3 and 4 year olds to secondary school in 1 September 2017 Online applications open September 2018, you need Many families currently benefit to apply for a place online. 15 January 2018 Closing date for applications from the universal 15 hours We have outlined the 18 April 2018 Offer day deadlines in the chart of free childcare for 3 and 4 on the right: 11 May 2018 Last date for appeals to be lodged year old children, and as a working parent you may now 16 May 2018 Waiting list information made available be eligible for up to 30 hours of free childcare per week. The Secondary School (11–16) extended entitlement is intended 1 August 2017 Online applications open to support working parents with the cost of childcare and Closing date for applications 31 October 2017 enable parents, where they wish, 1 March 2018 Offer day to return to work or to work additional hours. From 2 April 2018 Waiting list information made available

20 April 2018 Last date for appeals to be lodged

Are your kids school ready? We have more than 1,100 school Design a uniform governors volunteering across We’ve put together a handy checklist of competition Oldham making a positive difference the basic school items so you can get your to the lives of our children, young If they could wear anything what budding learners ready for the big day back. people and their families. would your child love to wear to school? Would you like to join them and What they will need: become a school governor? Ask them for their ideas and get them • Shoes (check school policy) to draw their design on a piece of Anyone who is a legal resident in • Full uniform (check with school) paper – the design can be as creative the UK and is over 18 can become • Clear pencil case as they’d like. a governor. You do not need to be • Drinks bottle a parent or a parent of a student • Bag To enter the design into the at the school or college. • Lunchbox competition take a picture and post • Stationary set it to social media with the hashtag: www.oldham.gov.uk/ For more information schoolgovernors (including maths items) #FamilyLife and to check if you are • Calculator (if children The winning and most inventive school eligible visit: are in secondary school) designs will be featured in an online www.oldham.gov.uk/ album on our social media channels. 30hoursfree Win with ODEON Oldham We’re giving lucky readers the chance to win a family ticket to see a film of their choice at Oldham’s ODEON cinema, The Old Town Hall, Parliament Square. All you need to do to be in with a chance of winning is sign up to receive the latest news in your area. To sign up visit: www.oldham.gov.uk/familylifecompetition

The deadline to enter is 31 August 2017. The winner will be announced on 4 September 2017. It’s free, easy and you will receive news relevant to you. The winner will receive a family ticket for four people (must include at least one adult).

You can also keep in touch through: Facebook: LoveOldham – www.facebook.com/loveoldham Twitter: Oldham Council – www.twitter.com/oldhamcouncil www.oldham.gov.uk/socialmedia

Published by Oldham Council If you wish to contact us please write to Family Life, Room 315, Civic Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1UT E: [email protected] All event dates were correct at the time of publishing.