familylife Inside... Spring 2015 Easter fun for all the family Meet Mr Bloom

What’s hot in your local area Spring events planner 2 - familylife familylife - 3 Welcome to the spring issue Contents of Family Life Family Life is the council’s magazine aimed exhibitions and our libraries hold daily Go! – What’s hot in your local area 4 at families in Oldham. activities and events for kids of all ages. We’re also lucky to have Mahdlo – our state It lists all of the fun activities and events Spring event planner 18 of the art youth zone based in Oldham taking place across the borough throughout Town Centre which offers a wide range of the Easter holiday period and beyond. We activities in a fantastic modern setting. Let’s go for a walk 22 hope that it provides lots of inspiration for fun days out with your family and helps you Alongside this we have fantastic activities make the most of what Oldham has to offer. provided by the voluntary sector and by Let’s get active at Oldham Community Leisure 23 local businesses – everything from Oldham is in a fantastic position – close to Brownie and Scout meetings to karate and with great transport links to 24 and judo classes. Mahdlo access all of the amenities and events it has to offer but we shouldn’t forget about the You can find out more about what’s 26 fantastic things available on our doorstep. happening in your area by visiting Spring into Oldham at your local markets www.gooldham.com or by visiting We’re lucky to live in one of Greater www.visitoldham.com 27 Manchester’s greenest boroughs which sits Love your local market at the heart of the Peak District National We always like to hear feedback about Park. Alongside this we have a wealth of the services we provide. Tell us what you Festival Oldham 28 parks and green spaces and 70 children’s think about this magazine and about playgrounds for you to enjoy all year round services for families more generally using at no cost – including the newest play area [email protected] Gallery Oldham 29 in the heart of Oldham Town Centre. Gallery Oldham is one of the best in the Bookmark Festival 30 region and plays host to brilliant touring Jim McMahon, Leader of The Small Cinema 32

Oldham Coliseum Theatre 33

Free early education 34

Love your smile 35

Discover your local children’s centre 36

Meet our wise owls 38 4 - familylife familylife - 5

Why not... Get fit with the ‘Teen Gym’ at centres across Oldham Anyone aged 13 to 15 years of age can use the gym under supervision from qualified instructors – get fit and have fun.

Try street dance sessions at Oldham Academy North. Hang out with friends at your local skate park or youth club. Hundreds of exciting activities at your fingertips! Over the next

Go! Oldham is the only website you need to 12 pages… find fun stuff to do across the borough.

You’ll find lots of activities from many We’ve picked out the best events from different groups and organisations including www.gooldham.com and split them up Oldham Community Leisure (OCL), local Find out more on the Go! Oldham website: into local areas – making it easier for you youth clubs, libraries and more. www.gooldham.com to find local stuff to do. Lots of people across the borough are You can also keep up to date with Go! page 6 already volunteering to help deliver these all the latest activities by: activities, but more are still needed. If you’ve Go! Shaw and Crompton page 8 • Following Go! Oldham on twitter: got a few hours to spare each week get in Go! Royton page 10 contact with Voluntary Action Oldham to @GoOldham find out how you can get involved. • Liking the Go! Oldham Facebook page: Go! Saddleworth and Lees page 12 www.facebook.com/Go.Oldham www.vaoldham.org.uk Go! and Hollinwood page 14 T: 0161 633 6222 Go! Oldham Central page 16 Follow Go! Oldham on twitter: @GoOldham • www.facebook.com/Go.Oldham 6 - familylife familfamilyylifelife -- 7 What’s happening in What’s hot in Chadderton? Chadderton? www.gooldham.com Get your skates on! Teen gym sessions Oldham and Royton Harriers 13–16 year olds and Athletics Club Various sessions available every day, Oldham Rockets just check the website for session times. 8–10 year olds Get fit at supervised gym sessions Mondays, 6–7pm which provide an introduction to fitness and exercise. Interested in long jump, triple jump, javelin, The brand new, state of the art skate shot put, discus, sprints and long park is now open in Coalshaw Chadderton Wellbeing Centre, Burnley distance running? Get fit, try new sports Green Park. It’s the biggest in Street, Chadderton, Oldham OL9 0JW and take the first steps to becoming the E: [email protected] next Olympic champion! Oldham and was designed with T: 0161 207 7000 input from local skaters. www.oclactive.co.uk Radclyffe Athletics Centre, Hunt Lane, Chadderton, Oldham OL9 0LS T: 0161 770 1639 Come along with your skateboard, scooter, E: [email protected] bike or roller skates and have some fun! Homework help power hour 5–11 year olds Coalshaw Green Park is just a Wednesdays, 3.30–4.30pm Arts, crafts and sports minute’s walk away from South all ages welcome Chadderton tram stop. Get help with that piece of homework Under eights must be accompanied you’ve been struggling with. Make use of by an adult the library facilities and get free access to printing and books. Fridays 10, 17 April, 29 May, 1–3pm Trained staff are available to offer help and Get messy with outdoor arts and crafts. support for primary pupils and give advice Have fun with exciting sporting activities. on using online resources. Chadderton Hall Park, Chadderton Chadderton Library, Wellbeing Centre, Hall Road, Oldham OL9 0QB Chadderton, Oldham OL9 0JW E: [email protected]

Youth Drop In 10–18 year olds Thursdays, 7.30–9.30pm Meet new friends and join in with fun activities like badminton, snooker, table tennis and much more. Firwood Church, 300 Middleton Road, Coalshaw Green Park, Coalshaw Green Road, Chadderton, Oldham OL9 8JW Chadderton, Oldham OL9 6JH 8 - familylife familylife - 9 What’s happening in What’s hot in Shaw and Crompton? Shaw and Crompton? Enjoy local drama, music, and big screen movies Senior Youth Club Library support this spring at 13–19 year olds all ages Playhouse Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays Wednesdays, 4–6pm, free 6.30–9.30pm 2 Love reading? Could you be a star of King Pleasure and Join in with pool games, topical Why not help out at your local library workshops and games. Hang out with and discover how libraries work? It will stage or screen? The Biscuit Boys people your own age and discuss ideas help boost your CV and give you basic Sunday 25 April Friday 29 May, 8pm about how to improve your community. customer service skills. Tickets £15 Join the Playhouse 2 Youth Theatre for Shaw Youth Club, 8 Chapel Street, Crompton Library, 7 Farrow Street East, this exciting introduction into the world of A seven piece band who play all over Shaw, Oldham OL2 8AJ Shaw, Oldham OL2 8QY theatre. Both young and older students Europe, give a terrific rendering of Blues, T: 01706 842184 can get valuable experience in theatre Swing, Boogie, Rock ‘n’ Roll and more, and move to drama college and the a show not to be missed. Teen gym professional theatre. 13–16 year olds Experience and learn about all aspects A Little Local Difficulty Wednesdays, 3.30–5.30pm, of stage craft in a fully working theatre by Philip Goulding £3.40 per session with tuition from professional actors. You never know, you could make it Saturday 13–20 June, 7.30pm Get fit at supervised gym sessions onto the big screen! Tickets £9 which provide an introduction to fitness and exercise. For more information and how to The corrupt mayor of a northern town tries book visit: to win over a ‘government inspector’ who Crompton Sports Centre, 5 Farrow Street, www.playhouse2.org has recently arrived. Terrified that he and Shaw, Oldham OL2 8NW his friends will be discovered, the mayor E: [email protected] sets about wooing the ‘inspector’, who is T: 0161 207 7000 Oldham junior badminton Paddington (PG) in fact a penniless rogue and in his own www.oclactive.co.uk 8–16 year olds way just as corrupt as the mayor. ‘A Little Saturday 28 March, 2pm Thursdays, 6–9pm, £3 Tickets £4 Local Difficulty’ is an end of season panto poking fun at local politics. Get your game on, challenge Everyone’s favourite friends and become the best bear travels to London in the class. Whatever your in search of a home. ability, have fun and learn to Finding himself lost and alone at play badminton. Paddington Station, he begins to realize Crompton House School, that city life is not all he had imagined – Sports Hall, Rochdale Road, until he meets the Brown family, who Shaw, Oldham OL2 7HS offer him a temporary haven. 2 Newtown Street, Shaw, Oldham OL2 8NX • Box Office: 01706 840400• Theatre: 01706 847281 www.gooldham.com 10 - familylife familylife - 11 What’s happening in What’s hot in Royton?

Royton? Teen gym Taekwondo sessions 13–16 year olds age 4+ Tuesdays and Thursdays Various times 3.30–4.30pm, Royton Sports Centre Want to learn self-defence, body control Basketball club Street dance Wednesdays, 3.30–5.30pm, and moves that will wow everyone? 8–16 year olds 7–16 year olds Crompton Sports Centre Learn more about Taekwondo and Wednesdays, 5.30–8pm, Mondays, 5.30–6.30pm, £3.40 per session develop your skills in discipline – mind, body and spirit. £1 a session term time only Get fit at supervised gym sessions Learn how to shoot hoops like a pro at Learn all the latest street dance moves which provide an introduction to First Floor at Unit A, 1 Shepherd Street, basketball club. Beginners and new players and show off your skills. You could fitness and exercise. Royton, Oldham OL2 5PB E: [email protected] are always welcome. You must wear even get the chance to take part in E: [email protected] T: 0161 620 0100 suitable sports clothing and bring a drink. regional performances. T: 0161 207 7000 Royton and Crompton School Sports Hall, All abilities are welcome. www.oclactive.co.uk Blackshaw Lane, Royton, Oldham OL2 6NT The Oldham Academy North, T: 0161 770 1635 Broadway, Oldham OL2 5BF E: [email protected] T: 07811 056241 Junior Youth Club 8–12 year olds Fridays, 4–6pm, 30p per session Join other like-minded kids and discuss ideas and join in with fun activities,

including games, face painting and Fierce Dance artwork with a difference. age 3+ Various times Royton Youth Centre, Chapel Street, £4 per class Royton, Oldham OL2 5QL E: [email protected] Start dancing and T: 0161 770 8648 learn new skills. Fierce dance provides classes Community netball in styles such all ages as street and freestyle. Wednesdays, 6.30–8pm Saint Marks Get hooked on netball with Church Hall, Royton, these weekly sessions. Perth Street, Oldham Academy North, Broadway, Heyside, Oldham OL2 6LY Royton, Oldham OL2 5BF T: 07522 370880 E: [email protected] T: 07740 456215 www.gooldham.com 12 - familylife familylife - 13 What’s happening in What’s hot Saddleworth? in Saddleworth? Teen gym Oldham Kyokushinkai Making and doing at Boredom Busters 13–16 year olds Karate Training 4–11 year olds the Saddleworth Various sessions available every day, 6–16 year olds Handmade Festival Tuesdays and Thursdays see website for details. £3.40 per session Tuesdays and Thursdays in school holidays 1–3pm 11–12 April, 11am–4pm, free entry Get fit at supervised gym sessions Juniors: 7–8pm Seniors: 8–9.30pm £3 per child. Booking is essential. Contact for prices. There’s crafty fun for all the family this which provide an introduction into April at the Saddleworth Handmade Get crafty at the Saddleworth Museum. fitness and exercise. Join experienced instructors who have Festival. Have your face painted, watch Painting, sticking, cutting, stitching and competed for Great Britain. Learn the much more. Children aged 8 and under Saddleworth Pool and Leisure Centre, demonstrations and even try out new Station Road, Uppermill, Oldham OL3 6HQ skills of the sport, have lots of fun and crafts yourself! must be accompanied by an adult. make new friends. Refreshments available. E: [email protected] You can also enjoy drinks and cakes at the T: 0161 207 7000 www.oclactive.co.uk Springhead Congregational Church, T: 07917 740882 handmade tea shop run by ‘Something Radcliffe Street, Springhead, Yummy Cakes and Catering’. www.saddleworthmuseum.co.uk/events Oldham OL4 4QP Caroline’s School of Dance There will be a tombola raising money for age 3+ charity ‘The Isaac Nash Trust’. Little Netterz Various sessions available on Tuesdays, 5–11 year olds Kid’s car boot E: [email protected] Thursdays and Fridays. Contact for prices. T: 01457 765632 Fridays, 4–5pm First Sunday of Caroline will teach you all the moves from www.creativenetwork-saddleworth.co.uk Learn all the skills you need to become every month, ballet to tap and freestyle to cheer-leading. a nifty netballer. With Little Netterz help, 10am–12noon There’s a style for all wannabe dancers. you could be joining a local netball club £10 per pitch Tennis coaching in no time. T: 07967 444267 Come along www.carolinesschoolofdance.co.uk age 11+ Saddleworth School, High Street, to a car boot sale with a difference – Various times Uppermill, Oldham OL3 6BU only kids’ stuff can £12 and upwards T: 07971 348228 Street Dance www.netballinthecommunity.co.uk be sold, swapped Fancy yourself as the next Andy Murray? 4 to 6 year olds and 7+ or bought. It’s a Why not join Sean Stafford’s tennis Wednesdays, great place to buy coaching sessions? Children can join 4–6 year olds session 6–6.30pm some amazing bargains or clear the house from as young as three. 7 year olds+ session 6.30–7.30pm of clutter, and make some money. £2–£3.50 Saddleworth Tennis Club, You can also join in the fun swap session Well-i-hole Road, Greenfield, Keep up with the trends and learn and trade your old toys and games for Oldham OL3 7HY street dance moves with Saddleworth new ones. Street Dance. E: [email protected] Saddleworth School, High Street, T: 07800 717790 Delph Methodist Church, Uppermill, Oldham OL3 6BU Gartside Street, Oldham OL3 5DW T: 07507632115 E: [email protected] www.gooldham.com 14 - familylife familylife - 15 What’s happening in What’s hot in Failsworth and Hollinwood?

Failsworth and Teen Gym 13–16 year olds Failsworth and Hollinwood youth forum 11–19 year olds Monday to Thursday 4–8pm Every second Monday of the month, Friday 4–7pm, Saturday, Sunday Hollinwood? 6–7pm, free 9.30am–3.30pm Failsworth Youth Zone If you’re passionate about your community 11–19 year olds £3.40 per session then your local youth forum is a great Every Friday, 6.30–8.30pm, free Visit Failsworth’s teen only gym! place to voice your views. Come along Meet new friends, play games and listen to Get fit at supervised gym sessions and make a real difference to young music in a chilled out environment on the which provide an introduction to fitness people in your area. town hall’s top floor. and exercise. Limehurst Youth Centre, Farm Road, OL8 3PB T: 0161 770 5683 Failsworth Town Hall, Oldham Road, Failsworth Sports Centre, Brierley Avenue, Failsworth, Oldham M35 0EJ Failsworth, Oldham M35 9HA E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Friday Gang 6–10 year olds T: 0161 770 5434 Crossfit Kids T: 0161 207 7000 www.oclactive.co.uk Every Friday (term-time only), 6–13 year olds 6.30–7.30pm, £1 per session Wednesday, 4–4.45pm Brownies If you’re into songs, quizzes, games, Saturday, 9.15–10am Senior Open Access crafts and prayers, Friday Gang is the 6–10 year olds 13–19 year olds Run, jump, squat, pull, push, lift and perfect spot for you. Wednesdays, 6.30–8pm handstand just like your favourite Every Wednesday, 7–9pm Roman Road Independent Methodist Contact for prices superhero. It’s free for unlimited Contact for prices Church, Roman Road, Failsworth M35 9JG T: 0161 682 4761 Are you looking for an adventure? member kids or just £3 per child. You can enjoy sports, games, team E: [email protected] Then Brownies could be the perfect Crossfit Northern Soul, Ivy Mill, building, cookery workshops, and arts and club for you. Failsworth, Oldham M35 9BG crafts. Come along to these weekly Canterbury Hall, Failsworth, T: 07572660199 sessions and have fun with friends, meet Amateur Boxing Club ages 9+ new people and build confidence. Oldham M35 0QS Tuesdays, 6–7.30pm, Thursdays, 6–7.30pm T: 0161 688 9332 Limehurst Youth Centre, £2 per session Hollinwood Netball Farm Road, Oldham OL8 4PB Train and become the next Amir Khan. 9–14 year olds T: 0161 770 5683 The boxing club welcomes kids and adults Dancerise Wednesdays, 5–6.30pm of all shapes and sizes. They provide a fun all ages Advance training Mondays, 5–6.30pm and friendly atmosphere. Junior Youth Club Tuesdays, 6.30–7.30pm Brierley Avenue, Failsworth M35 9HA Do you love to win? Train with Hollinwood 9–11 year olds T: 07454 786037 Put on your dancing shoes, improve Netball Club, play against other teams and Tuesdays 6.30–8pm your skills, take part in competitions take part in competitions. Don’t forget to 20p admission and have fun. make space for the trophies and medals! Karma Jujitsu Organization Are you looking for a place to hang out with ages 5+ York Hall, Failsworth, Oldham M35 0QS Newbridge School, Roman Road, people of the same age? Don’t miss Junior T: 0161 688 9332 Hollinwood, Oldham OL8 3PT Mondays, 6.15–7.15pm, £3 per session Youth Club where there’s games to be Compete with your mates, have fun, and E: [email protected] played and new friends to be made. T: 0161 682 7278 take part in tournaments. Inside the Mission Hall, Church Street, www.gooldham.com Failsworth Town Hall, Oldham Road, Failsworth, M35 0EJ T: 0161 770 543 Failsworth M35 9JW T: 07855 324270 16 - familylife familylife - 17 What’s happening in What’s hot in Oldham? Oldham?

Drop In Beats Student Youth Café Oldham Boxing Club age 8+ Homework Help Power Hour

with Square 1 Studios 16–20 year olds Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday 5–11 year olds 11–16 year olds Monday to Friday, 10.30am–2pm 5pm–6pm for all beginners. Every Wednesday, 3.30 – 4.30pm 13–16 April, 11am–2pm, free £2 a session You can beat your mates at games and Get help with tough homework and get free Do you want to make your own music activities every day of the week at the Training to be the next Ricky Hatton? Get access to printing and books. Trained staff or find out what it takes to become a Student Youth Café. the skills you need to keep fit and build are available to offer help and support DJ? Intimidated by the high cost of audio stamina. Come along to the beginners’ and give advice on using online resources There’s also some great consoles…Xbox engineering classes? sessions, more experienced classes or adult at the library. Kinnect, Wii and Xbox 360. So come and sessions and have fun. Never fear, Drop In Beats is here. refresh your energy. Oldham Library, Greaves Street, Oldham Boxing Club, Victoria House, Oldham OL1 1AL It’s a series of free workshops designed Salt Cellar Youth Project, Greaves Street, Oldham OL1 1QN E: [email protected] to unlock your creative potential. Plus 11a Church Lane, Oldham OL1 3AN E: [email protected] T: 0161 770 8000 you’ll have access to rehearsal rooms, E: [email protected] T: 0161 628 8466 www.oldham.gov.uk/libraries professional recording facilities and the T: 07794602243 www.oldhamboxing.co.uk latest music software. The project will run for a total of 24 weeks and Square 1 Studios are now booking Film Night @ places for the workshops, on a first come 8–13 year olds Hack the Library first serve basis. So don’t miss out. 26 March, 30 April and 28 May, 5pm all ages Saturday 28, March 10am–4pm, Visit square1studios.org/projects Drop into Fitton Hills’ monthly film club. free book through the library. for more information or to book a place. Oldham’s Futsal arena Watch one of the latest films on the big Square 1 Studios, 130 Union Street, Join Hack Oldham as they take over the screen. Just visit the library to see the Love football? Oldham OL1 1DU library for one day only. Take part in James film listings. Free. Must book with Oldham Futsal arena, E: [email protected] Bond-like activities including coding, Fitton Hill Library. located at Oldham College, is T: 0161 628 8101 creating new technologies and gaming – available all year round for fun Fitton Hill Shopping Precinct, what technology will you create? 5-a-side football. Oldham College Oldham OL8 2QP and Futsal, have jointly created a The Hack Oldham group meets on the last E: [email protected] cool urban environment where you can Saturday of the month at Oldham Library. T: 0161 770 8000 listen to music while you play sports and Oldham Library, Greaves Street, get interactive with technology. Oldham OL1 1AL The arena provides a wide range of activities E: [email protected] from themed leagues and tournaments, T: 0161 770 8000 through to kids clubs and community www.hackoldham.com education courses. Oldham College, Rochdale Road, Oldham OL9 6AA T: 0161 914 9631 www.futsaluk.net 18 - familylife familylife - 19 Oldham Spring and Summer Planner Paddington (PG) Little Hands at Oldham Baby Days Easter Event Super Saturdays Children’s Car Boot Mr Bloom 28 March, 2pm, £4 Coliseum Theatre: Easter (0–18 months) 4 April, 12noon–4pm, free First Sunday of every month, 18 April, 11–11.45am, Eggstravaganza 1 April, 10am–12noon, free Come along and get messy 10am–12noon (9am for stall 12 Albion Street, Oldham 28 March, 10–11am Get together with other with our creative craft activities holders) £10 per pitch Town Centre and £3 per child. Free for adults. parents and carers to share on the first Saturday of every Come along to a car boot 1–1.30pm and 2–2.30pm Book in advance through the experiences at this Baby month. where only children’s stuff is Oldham Library, free box office to guarantee your Days event. Gallery Oldham, Oldham on sale! Buy some amazing (booking essential) place. Oldham Library, Cultural Cultural Quarter, Greaves bargains or clear the house Little Hands helps children’s Quarter, Greaves Street, Street, Oldham OL1 1AL of clutter, and make some development in a fun and Oldham OL1 1AL www.galleryoldham.org.uk money! creative environment. E: [email protected] Saddleworth School, High Oldham Coliseum Theatre, www.oldham.gov.uk/libraries Charlie and Lola Street, Uppermill, Oldham OL3 6BU Fairbottom Street, Oldham 8 and 9 April, 11am and OL1 3SW Frozen sing along 1.30pm, £10 www.kidscarboot.co.uk/events/ saddleworth T: 0161 624 2829 2 April, 5pm, Enter a magical journey W: www.coliseum.org.uk £10 children, £15 adults through the seasons, as Charlie and Lola discover that The little bear hits the big Spring into Oldham everything is different and not screen for a family adventure 28 March, 10am–4pm, free the same! stuffed with charm. Oldham Coliseum Theatre, Playhouse 2, 2 Newtown Fairbottom Street, Oldham Street, Shaw, Oldham OL1 3SW OL2 8NX T: 0161 624 2829 Pop along and say ‘Ello!’ with T: 01706 840400 www.coliseum.org.uk Mr Bloom. There’ll be a bundle www.playhouse2.org of veggie stories, gardening The Saddleworth games, and catchy Nursery Hack the Library Handmade Festival: songs for Tiddlers and Parents alike. 28 March, 10am–4pm, free Making and Doing Take part in coding, creating 11–12 April, 11am–4pm, Oldham Library, Greaves Street, Oldham OL1 1AL new technologies and gaming. free It’s free to take part, just show Enjoy 55 stalls of wonderful E: [email protected] up! The Hack Oldham group handmade products from The Small Cinema: www.oldham.gov.uk/bookmark meets on the last Saturday of local makers, watch craft The Book of Life (U) the month at Oldham Library. demonstrations, have your Bookend Saturday Meet Shaun the Sheep at the Enjoy a full screening of 18 April, 2pm, £3 Oldham Library, Greaves petting farm with the Easter Disney’s Frozen with on face painted and even try out Manolo, a young man who 18 April, 11am–4pm, free Street, Oldham OL1 1AL Bunny and Easter-themed screen lyrics so you can sing new crafts yourself! is torn between fulfilling the (no need to book) T: 0161 770 8000 entertainment on the High along with Anna and Elsa. Uppermill Civic Hall, Uppermill, expectations of his family and Fabulous garden themed fun E: [email protected] Street and Albion Street. Remember to dress up as your Oldham OL3 6AE following his heart, embarks on for all the family! www.hackoldham.com Easter egg hunt in Tommyfield favourite character. E: [email protected] an adventure that spans three Oldham Library, Greaves Market. Oldham Coliseum Theatre, www.creativenetwork-saddleworth. fantastic worlds where he must Street, Oldham OL1 1AL Oldham High Street, Albion Fairbottom Street, Oldham co.uk face his greatest fears. E: [email protected] Street, and Tommyfield Market OL1 3SW Oldham Library Performance www.oldham.gov.uk/bookmark Hall, Oldham Town Centre. T: 0161 624 2829 Space, Cultural Quarter, T: 0161 770 4516 www.coliseum.org.uk Greaves Street, Oldham E: [email protected]. OL1 1AL www.visitoldham.com T: 0161 770 4742 W: www.thesmallcinema.com 20 - familylife familylife - 21 Poetry writing workshop Bookend Saturday Film Night@Fitton Hill Love Your Local Market The Small Cinema: Super Saturdays Paddington (PG) 23 April, 2–3.30pm, £3.50 25 April, 10am–4pm, free 30 April, 5pm, free (book 16–30 May, 6 June, 12noon–4pm, free Come along and get messy library members, £5 non (no booking needed) with Fitton Hill Library) various times, free 23 May, 2pm, £3 members Come along and celebrate Aged 8–13? Drop into Fitton Oldham’s best loved markets The little bear hits the big with our creative craft activities Cathy Crabb will take one of our favourite authors Jill Hills’ monthly film club. Watch are playing host to a range screen for a family adventure on the first Saturday of every participants through a journey Murphy at our Family Fun Day. one of the latest films on the of fun events, including food stuffed with charm. month. from first idea through to Oldham Library, Greaves big screen at Fitton Hill Library. demos, street food, give- Oldham Library Performance Gallery Oldham, Oldham story, character and scene Street, Oldham OL1 1AL Fitton Hill Shopping Precinct, aways, competitions and Space, Greaves Street, Cultural Quarter, Greaves breakdowns. E: [email protected] Oldham OL8 2QP more. Oldham OL1 1AL Street, Oldham OL1 1AL Oldham Library, Greaves www.oldham.gov.uk/bookmark T: 0161 770 8000 T: 0161 770 4515 T: 0161 770 4742 www.galleryoldham.org.uk Street, Oldham OL1 1AL E: [email protected] www.oldham.gov.uk/markets www.thesmallcinema.com www.oldham.gov.uk/libraries E: [email protected] Talk by Jill Murphy A Little Local Difficulty www.oldham.gov.uk/bookmark Festival Oldham Film Night @ Fitton Hill 25 April, 10.30–11.30am, by Philip Goulding 1–2pm and 3–4pm, free Super Saturdays 23 May, 12noon–4pm, free 28 May, 5pm, free (book with Celebrate with the very best 13–20 June, 7.30pm, £9 Little Hands at Oldham (booking essential) Fitton Hill Library) The corrupt mayor of a 2 May, 12noon–4pm, free art and entertainment Oldham Aged 8–13? Drop into the Coliseum: Pirates Ahoy Come along and get messy Northern town tries to win over town centre has to offer. With monthly film club to watch one 25 April, 10–11am with our creative craft activities a ‘Government inspector’ who shows, music and street of the latest films on the big on the first Saturday of every has recently arrived. ‘A Little theatre, this festival celebrates screen at Fitton Hill Library. month. Local Difficulty’ is an end of Oldham’s past and future. Gallery Oldham, Oldham Fitton Hill Shopping Precinct, season panto poking fun at Oldham Town Centre and Cultural Quarter, Greaves Oldham OL8 2QP local politics. Tommyfield Market, Oldham Street, Oldham OL1 1AL T: 0161 770 8000 Playhouse 2, 2 Newtown T: 0161 770 3070 E: [email protected] www.galleryoldham.org.uk Street, Shaw, Oldham www.visitoldham.com www.oldham.gov.uk/libraries OL2 8NX King Pleasure and The T: 01706 840400 Frozen sing along Oldham Reminiscence www.playhouse2.org A talk by Jill Murphy, the award Biscuit Boys 8 May, 5pm, Walk winning writer of ‘The Worst 29 May, 8pm, £15 £10 children, £15 adults 23 May, 10am, 11am, 1pm The Small Cinema: My Witch’ titles. This seven piece band who and 2pm (4 walks) play all over Europe, give a Neighbour Totoro (PG) Oldham Library, Greaves Join in a memory walk around terrific rendering of Blues, 20 June, 2pm, £3 Street, Oldham OL1 1AL Alexandra Park. Swing, Boogie, Rock ‘n’ Roll A heart-warming and E: [email protected] Each walk will start with a film and more. enchanting film full of magic for www.oldham.gov.uk/bookmark all ages. about dementia and there will Playhouse 2, 2 Newtown be 2 dementia friends sessions Street, Shaw, Oldham Oldham Library Performance £3 per child. Free for adults. Dr Kershaw’s Charity at 12noon and 1pm. Space, Greaves Street, Book in advance through the OL2 8NX Walk Alexandra Park, Kings Road, Oldham OL1 1AL box office to guarantee your 26 April, 10.30am, £7 Oldham OL8 2BN T: 01706 840400 place. www.playhouse2.org T: 0161 770 4742 (includes refreshments) T: 0161 770 4056 www.thesmallcinema.com Little Hands helps children’s Help raise funds on this seven www.oldham.gov.uk/dementia development in a fun and mile walk suitable for all the Forget Me Not Family creative environment. family. The walk starts at Fun Day Enjoy a full screening of Oldham Coliseum Theatre, Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, up to 30 May, 10am–4pm Disney’s FROZEN with on Fairbottom Street, Oldham Springhill Hospice and back. Come along for a fun day of screen lyrics so you can sing OL1 3SW craft activities. Help to make Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, Turf along with Anna and Elsa. a giant forget-me-not flower T: 0161 624 2829 Lane, Royton, Oldham Remember to dress up as your and enjoy a showing of My www.coliseum.org.uk OL2 6EU favourite character. Grandma by Oldham E. [email protected] Oldham Coliseum Theatre, Coliseum Theatre’s Young T. 0161 624 9984 Fairbottom Street, Oldham Rep Company. www.drkershawshospice.org.uk/ OL1 3SW events Oldham Library, Greaves T: 0161 624 2829 Street, Oldham OL1 1AL W: www.coliseum.org.uk www.oldham.gov.uk/dementia 22 - familylife familylife - 23 Let’s go for a Let’s get active There’s a packed programme of sports and activities with Oldham Community Leisure.

Get fit as a family this spring Climbing wall walk Get fit classes for children aged Thursdays, 4.15–5.15pm, Fridays, 3–6pm Our handpicked walks… 11 and over. 5+ years Oldham has some of the best scenery and The Castleshaw Quest – 11 years+ Tone up your body and focus on building villages in . From quiet the family quest in Saddleworth Aerobics, aquajog, aqua zumba, zumba, your core strength with rock climbing. walks along the canal in Uppermill, to a stroll The Castleshaw Quest is for families of all dance aerobics, fitness pilates, nordic Oldham Sports Centre, Lord Street, around your local park, there are lots of trails ages and invites you to run wild as you walking, pilates, sit and get fit, spin, step Oldham OL1 3HA and routes to try out. follow a trail to save Castleshaw Reservoir aerobics, Thai Chi and yoga. from ‘Grott’ the toad and ‘Cross Dob’ the Explore the history of Uppermill 13 years+ troll. Seek help from ‘Upp’ the unicorn, Abs blast, body tone, bootcamp, cardio, The trail is a great way to explore the ‘Frieze’ the wise water nymph and ‘Densh’ circuits, easy line circuits, fitball, legs, historic villages and learn more about the the dragon, as you make your way round bums and tums, plus all of the above. area. Starting at the Saddleworth Linear this picturesque reservoir. and finishing at the Civic Hall Uppermill, 16 years+ you can enjoy a day out with the family, Let’s go for a walk Pump Fx, Vipr, boxer–circuit, boxercise, exploring the rural area. MMA, plus all of the above. If you are looking for a family friendly Explore Crompton Moor walk, try our ‘Let’s go for a walk’ scheme, Everyone aged between 11–15 years must showcasing nine of Oldham’s fantastic be accompanied by an adult (16+) who will Kids’ Camp like never before parks and countryside sites. be participating in the class with them. If 7–10 April, 13–17 April, 8am–5.30pm There are several walks on the moor with you are aged 16+ you are classed 6–12 years, £10 The walks are a great way to have fun different levels of difficulty and a history as an adult and can attend all classes. Fun filled activity camp which will introduce and get active. trail showing various features of interest in you to new sports. the area. The moor isn’t just dedicated to For more information: Family Tumble Fun walking. You can enjoy horse riding, cycling, T: 07870 857972 Mondays and Fridays, 9.30–11.30am The Radclyffe Athletic Centre bird watching and even take part in the www.visitoldham.com/activities/ Soft play sessions are for ages five and Hunt Lane, Chaddeton, Oldham OL9 0LS permanent orienteering course. walking-and-trails under. They include a bouncy castle, To book T: 0161 207 7000 arts and crafts, toys and games plus a sing along. There’s also changing and Have you got your Explore Tandle Hill Country Park feeding facilities. Oldham Sports Centre, Active Oldham card yet? Lord Street, Oldham OL1 3HA Tandle Hill is Oldham’s oldest country park, The card costs just £2 for adults and is and was first used as a meeting area in the Family Table Tennis 19th century by political activists. Enjoy free for under 18s or those in full time Mondays, 4–5pm walks around the stunning area and take in education. The card gives you and your the breath-taking views across Manchester Get into the competitive spirit with some family great savings on sport and leisure and the Pennine Hills. On a clear day you fast paced family table tennis. activities at all the OCL facilities. Get your can even see the Welsh Mountains. Booking recommended. Oldham Active card by visiting your local Chadderton Wellbeing Centre, Burnley sports centre or applying online. Street, Chadderton, Oldham OL9 0JW www.oclactive.co.uk

www.ocl.co.uk • T: 0161 207 7000 • @OCLActive 24 - familylife familylife - 25

Registered charity 1134427 Just the girls Join the fun at Mahdlo Saturdays, 1.30–4.30pm www.mahdloyz.org On Saturday afternoons, the youth zone becomes @mahdloyz a ‘Girls Only Zone’ and welcomes female members aged 8–21 years to take part in activities such as T: 0161 624 0111 karate, dance, football, baking and creative arts.

If you’re not a member of Mahdlo yet…why not? “I have made new friends in the Membership is only £5 for a whole year and only 50p per session. New girls’ sessions and love going on members can sign up at www.mahdloyz.org or by calling into reception. the rock climbing wall!” Girls’ Zone attendee, aged 8 Junior Zone at Mahdlo Fun for all the family 8–12 year olds with the Family Zone Mahdlo’s Junior Zone is jam–packed 8–21 year olds and family members Get Oldham with exciting activities. Sundays, 10am–1pm and 1.30–4.30pm Growing for the Ability session Mahdlo has recently joined For the budding stars of stage and screen, up with ‘Incredible Farm’ there’s Glee Club, music sessions and Take part in a range of activities, Volunteer with us to get green–fingered dance, whilst the climbing wall, gym and from crafts and cooking to sports members growing their sports sessions give everyone a chance and competitions. Mahdlo is looking for volunteers and own veg. The new project, to get active. volunteer mentors to join the team. If you have a few hours spare a Mahdlo Growing Zones, Mahdlo Junior members regularly go week, on a regular basis, and would provide great classes to “My son is creating some fantastic out on trips, enjoy group outings to the like to make a difference in a young give you the chance to memories at Mahdlo and it’s giving cinema, bowling, the theatre and explore person’s life, Mahdlo would love to learn about healthy eating him the opportunity to do wonderful the great outdoors on expeditions hear from you. in a fun environment. and residentials. things.” Parent Contact the team on Spring is the perfect time T: 0161 624 0111 to get the kids outdoors so get in touch if you want to “Mahdlo has made me feel like I get involved. can do anything I want to do. It’s fantastic, you never get bored. It has helped me to be happier at school.” Junior Zone member, aged 9 26 - familylife familylife - 27 Love Your Local Market 16–30 May Join Oldham’s markets and Shaw Street Market For lots of Easter fun celebrate the ‘Love Your Local Market’ campaign grand opening Saturday 28 March, To coincide with the Love Your Local The fortnight celebrates everything that is 10am–4pm Market campaign, Shaw Market is on the great about your local market. Over 900 move for at least three months! The market markets took part last year, putting on will move to Shaw’s main shopping street – In Oldham Town Centre In Tommyfield over nearly 7,000 fun family events Market High Street – in the early summer. Come along to the petting farm, meet across Britain. Market Hall Say hi to the new market traders, taste the Easter Bunny and enjoy Easter- As part of the campaign, some of fresh produce and see what the market themed entertainment on High Street Once you’ve said hello to all the Oldham’s best loved markets are hosting will look like in its new location. There will and Albion Street. animals, stroll up to Tommyfield Market a range of fun events. There will be food be family entertainment and special guests Hall. Find a character, get the clues and demos from celebrity chef, Richard Fox Hop along to the town centre for take part in the Easter Egg Treasure from around Oldham. the Easter extravaganza and meet and a children’s funfair. Hunt. Solve the clues and make your Keep your eyes and ears peeled for everyone’s favourite children’s character, way around the Market Hall and discover Bring the family and take part in children’s the final line-up of events, which will Shaun the Sheep, who will be making the locations of the secret eggs. You activities including free face painting, be available to view at appearances at 11am, 12noon, 1pm, could win a giant easter egg. craft workshops and balloon modelling. www.visitoldham.com 2pm and 3pm. There will also be a chance to vote for Enjoy face painting and balloon Shaw High Street, Shaw, Oldham. • Visit the live petting farm, featuring your favourite trader in the ‘Trader of the modelling in the Market Hall. Year Competition’. bunnies, chicks and a Jersey calf • Watch ‘Sheep! Little Bo Peep’ E: [email protected] by Oldham Theatre Workshop T: 0161 770 4516 For more information about Love Your Local Market or how to • Meet special guest, Bertie the www.visitoldham.com become a market trader visit Easter Bunny www.oldham.gov.uk/markets or call 0161 770 4515. Like Tommyfield Market Hall on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ tommyfieldmarkethall) and get involved on social media, using the hashtag #LYLM2015. For more information about town centre events visit, www.visitoldham.com

www.oldham.gov.uk/markets • #LYLM2015 • T: 0161 770 4515 28 - familylife familylife - 29 Festival Oldham Galleryoldham Saturday 23 May, 12noon–4pm www.galleryoldham.org.uk • @GalleryOldham • T: 0161 770 4653 Celebrate with the very best art and entertainment Creative sessions Go Baby (0–2 years) Super Saturdays Oldham Town Centre has to offer. 4 April, 2 May, 6 June East meets West at this year’s Festival Oldham. See the very best in British and South Asian street theatre, music and dance shows. Be amazed by the Bollywood dancers and hear the unique sounds of the Bombay Baja Brass Band. Take part in Dhol drumming workshops and get creative with Henna mask making. These popular creative sessions for little ones last one hour. Look out for a special surprise event on High Street and head to Gallery Oldham Every Thursday (term-time only) Come along and get messy with our for more street theatre, crafts and film fun. creative craft activities on the first Saturday 10.30–11.30am: Non-walkers Oldham Town Centre and Gallery Oldham, of every month. Greaves Street, Oldham OL1 1AL 11.30am–12.30pm: Walkers Free – no need to book, just drop in from T: 0161 770 3070 Free – no need to book, just drop in. 12noon–4pm. Activities are most suitable for children aged 4 to 10 years. Black Sheep exhibition Until 9 May Felt is the most ancient constructed textile in the world and in this exhibition you will get to see ‘the darker side of felt’. The artists have created bizarre oddities and brilliant objects with this versatile material. Solar Flowers Until 24 August The whole family will love Alexandre Dang’s fantastic solar powered dancing flowers. You can learn about how the power of the sun gets these flowers moving while taking • Gallery Oldham T: 0161 770 3070 • www.visitoldham.com • in the beautiful spring colours. 30 - familylife familylife - 31 festival Wait…there’s more! Teddy Bears Picnic Under 5s 22 April, 11am–1pm Free (no need to book) Oldham’s all booked up! Bring your favourite Teddy Bear along for lots of fun! Little ones can climb and jump as you go on a bear hunt around It’s back again and bigger than ever! Bookend Saturdays the library, explore the sensory table and Jill Murphy We’re bringing you even more events for all enjoy some fun crafts! Stories and rhymes 7–11 year olds the family in venues across the town centre! 18 and 25 April, 11am–4pm will be followed by a picnic among the bookshelves. Please bring your own 25 April, 10.30–11.30am Free (no need to book) picnic lunch. What’s in store? 1–2pm and 3–4pm Mr Bloom We’ve lots of fun planned for all the Oldham Library Cultural Quarter, Free (booking essential) family. Our first Bookend Saturday Greaves Street, Oldham OL1 1AL Come and meet Jill Murphy, the award 18 April sees us making a funky flower pot winning author of The Worst Witch. and listening to stories and rhymes. 11–11.45am, at the Town Centre Shop, Oldham Library Cultural Quarter, 12 Albion Street. Don’t miss our second event Greaves Street, Oldham OL1 1AL and 1–1.30pm and 2–2.30pm at Oldham where we are celebrating one of our Albion Street, Oldham Town Centre. Library. Free (booking essential) favourite authors, Jill Murphy author www.oldham.gov.uk/bookmark www.oldham.gov.uk/bookmark of The Worst Witch and lots more Pop along and say ‘Ello!’ to Mr Bloom, the children’s favourites. popular TV show gardener. There’ll be a Join us for stories and rhymes bundle of veggie stories, gardening games, and welcome in spring by and catchy nursery songs for tiddlers and decorating our Writing Trees. parents alike. To sum it up in the words of a famous Aubergine: ‘Let’s sing and dance and have some fun!’ Oldham Library Cultural Quarter, Greaves Street, Oldham OL1 1AL and Poetry writing workshop Albion Street, Oldham Town Centre. age14+ 23 April, 2–3.30pm £3.50 library members (show your library card on door), £5 non members (booking essential) More events… Using artwork from Gallery Oldham We’ve picked out some great family as inspiration, Cathy Crabb will take events, but there are lots more to participants through a journey from first suit all tastes. idea through to story, character and scene breakdowns. Visit www.oldham.gov.uk/bookmark Oldham Library Cultural Quarter, for a full events guide of the Greaves Street, Oldham OL1 1AL Bookmark Festival. www.oldham.gov.uk/bookmark 32 - familfamilylifeylife familylife - 33

www.coliseum.org.uk • @OldhamColiseum • T: 0161 624 2829

Oldham Coliseum has lots of great Charlie and Lola (Ages 3+) activities for little ones. Wednesday, 8 and Thursday, 9 April, Frozen sing along (Ages 5+) 11am and 1.30pm Thursday, 2 April and Friday, 8 May 5pm Tickets £10 Children: £10 Adults: £15 Enter a magical journey through Family ticket: (2 Adults plus 2 children) £46 the seasons, as Charlie and Family ticket: (1 Adult plus 2 children) £33 Lola discover that everything is ‘Let it Go’ at a full screening of Disney’s different and Frozen with on screen lyrics so you can sing not the same. along with Anna and Elsa. The live host will show you how to use your free prop bag and warm up your singing voices. Come for some big fun at Oldham’s Small Cinema! Don’t forget to dress up. Watch the latest films with your family. Tickets are just £3 – and includes a goodie bag for kids. Advance booking is recommended. Little Hands The Book of Life (U) My Neighbour Totoro (PG) Saturday, 20 June 2pm For children aged 2–4 years Saturday, 18 April 2pm plus their grown-ups Manolo, a young man who is torn A heart-warming and enchanting film £3 per child. Free for adults. between fulfilling the expectations of his full of magic for all ages. Book in advance through the box office family and following his heart, embarks to guarantee your place. on an adventure that spans three Easter Eggstravaganza fantastic worlds where he must face Film-related arts and crafts take his greatest fears. place before each movie from Saturday, 28 March 10–11am 12noon–2pm in the gallery foyer Pirates Ahoy at Gallery Oldham Paddington (PG) Saturday, 25 April 10–11am Saturday, 23 May 2pm Little Hands helps children’s development in a fun and creative environment. Join Paddington bear for a family adventure stuffed with charm. Join Oldham Coliseum once a month for a workshop of play, pretend and performance. www.thesmallcinema.com • @thesmallcinema • T: 0161 770 4742 34 - familylife familylife - 35 Make sure your child gets their Love your smile free education 2 Limit sugar What is tooth Everyone has plaque bacteria in their decay? mouth. When plaque bacteria mixes with Tooth decay happens when acids sugary food and drinks, acids are produced in your mouth dissolve the outer which can cause tooth decay. layers of your teeth, and can lead Every time your child has sugary food to toothache, tooth sensitivity, grey, or drinks, they increase their risk of brown or black spots appearing tooth decay. on teeth and bad breath. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to Limit the number and amount of sugary further problems such as holes in foods and drinks your child has to help the teeth, gum disease or painful prevent tooth decay. abscesses in the mouth. Follow these 3 simple steps to prevent problems before they occur.

It’s helped Akeem… with Alicia and play educational games. His favourite activity is imaginative role play with Akeem is a happy 4 year old the other children.” 1 Brush teeth who attends Premier Preschool Mum Nikita is thrilled and added: “Akeem Children should brush their teeth twice a in Greenacres. loves nursery. His behaviour has improved day, every day as soon as they get their When he was 2, Akeem had difficulty so much, it used to be his way or no first tooth. They should always brush before communicating and struggled to socialise way, now he knows how to act. I would bedtime and at one other time in the day. with other children. He would argue with his recommend early education to anyone. The older brother and have outbursts at home. benefits for Akeem have been fantastic and Akeem’s local children’s centre suggested the 15 hours of free education means that I that using his 15 hours of free early can think of going back to college.” education could help with his behaviour All 3 and 4 year olds and some 2 year olds 3 Visit a dentist and development. are entitled to 15 hours a week of free early Your child should have regular dental check- Staff at the pre-school have worked hard education. As Akeem’s story shows, early ups as soon as they get their first tooth. with Akeem since he started. He’s made education allows them to make friends, NHS dental care for children is free from great progress and now knows how to develop through exploration, play and birth until they are 18. share and talk to other children. Thanks social interaction. It also gives them the Visiting the dentist helps children become to the help and support he’s received, knowledge and experience they need for familiar with the dental environment and he will find it much easier to start school starting school. you will be able to get important information in September. To find out how to get your child’s free and advice. Alicia, his key worker said “Akeem gets early education, visit www.oldham.gov. involved with anything and everything.” On a uk/free_early_education or ask your To find a local dentist call NHS typical afternoon, he will paint, read a book local children’s centre. on 0300 311 2233 www.oldham.gov.uk/babyteeth 36 – familylife familylife - 37 Discover your local

Look what’s going on

Ante-natal Mess and Muddles Mondays, From baby massage to messy play, Mondays, 1.30–2.45pm 9am–12.30pm health advice sessions to parenting Stockbrook Children’s Failsworth Children’s Centre (Chadderton) courses, there’s so much to do at centre Centre your local children’s centre with Baby Club experienced friendly staff. Tiny Tots Fridays, 9.30–11am (0–18 months) Did you know children’s centres can Beever Children’s Centre Thursdays, also help you find work and volunteering (East Oldham) 1.30–3.30pm opportunities? Staff are on hand to help Medlock Vale Children’s get you the support available to your family Baby Yoga such as child benefits, childcare, training, Centre (West Oldham) Fridays, 11–11.45am free early education entitlement and more. Saddleworth North and Stay and Play They’re also a great place to meet new South Children’s Centre Fridays, 1.30–3.30pm friends and share parenting experiences Spring Meadows and advice. Weaning Children’s Centre Wednesdays, (East Oldham) 1.30–2.30pm “I’ve just finished the baby massage Shaw and Crompton course. It was a great way to meet Children’s Centre other mums and it helped Lucy’s eczema – she’s suffered with it since “We’re regular visitors to Spring she was born.” “We always come to the stay and Meadows and have been since Alfie Kirsty, mum to 7 month old Lucy play session on a Friday and I’ve was a baby. They love interacting done lots of courses such as maths, with other children and their speech English and cooking.” and coordination skills have really Tracy, mum to Lucas and Amy. developed since we started coming. We loved the baby massage course “I enjoy the new parents class and and enjoy the parties and events the can’t wait to join the baby massage centre organises.” class. Although I’ve got a lot of “We’ve been coming since Isla was support at home, it’s good to know Susan, mum to Alfie (three and a half) a tiny baby when we came for baby that there’s somewhere I can turn if I and Lilly (two and a half). weighing. I’m now back at work but need extra help.” love coming on my day off to the stay Philippa, mum to 4 month old Ella-Louise and play session. It’s a great place to meet up with friends and Isla loves Contact your children’s centre and make getting messy.” the most of all the opportunities on offer. Claire, mum to 18 month old Isla. www.oldham.gov.uk/childrens_centres 38 - familylife familylife - 39 Meet our

Our maths fledglings have hatched into wise owl mathematicians after taking part in the free family maths group, held at Oldham Library.

“The new strategies learnt at school Family Learning today have really helped my own As well as the Wise Owls, there are understanding of maths. We have tried a range of Family Learning courses. to put our knowledge into everyday Families can learn together or mums, The fun-filled sessions gave families the life. William has been helping to set the dads, grandparents and carers can gain chance to learn together every Saturday table using left and right language and new skills while their child is cared for in morning. Among other things, the wise we have been playing maths quizzes the onsite crèche. owls went on a shape hunt, made life size while walking to school using real life models of themselves, played number examples. William has been baking Choose from: games, discovered that maths is all around this week and has enjoyed using and got technical with online maths measurements. We are so pleased • Family English programmes. Parents enjoyed seeing new with William’s development, at parents’ • Family Maths ways children are taught maths at school evening, his teacher said his maths has and improved their own maths skills. come on leaps and bounds. • Family Language Thank you!” Parent • Playing with Language • Family Health “We’ve all loved this course. I was The group was delivered thanks to funding very nervous about joining the course from the Paul Hamlyn Foundation and NIACE. • Family ICT but both tutors put me at ease. We • Money matters used to have a little tantrum over Emily’s homework but for the last few • Keeping up with the children weeks we’ve made it fun and if we’ve For more information please contact struggled, we’ve used methods we’ve Ruth Crossley: been taught such as watching maths online through Youtube. I can’t thank T: 0161 770 8032 you enough for helping us.” Parent E: [email protected] Want to change the life of a teenager? You could help by becoming a foster carer There are lots of teenagers in Oldham waiting for foster carers. They need help, support and guidance as much, if not more than younger children. Many have had a difficult start and just want to live in a stable family like their friends at school. You don’t need special qualifications–life experience and personal qualities can make a big difference to a teenager. You would receive lots of support including your own social worker, access to an 24/7 emergency line, full training and up to £29,000 per year.

Get in touch to find out more T: 0161 770 6600 www.oldham.gov.uk/fostering

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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.