January/February 2016 Issue 27 FREE! Take me home!

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Clubs & Classes Education Days out and more!

The really useful magazine for parents www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Issue 27 | January/February 2016 | Families Warwickshire In this issue Contact details Call: Claire Jones on 01926 335004 3 Snippets E: [email protected] www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

5 Clubs & Classes Cover by Linda Scannell www.lindascannell.com Design by Caroline Smith www.carolinesmithdesign.co.uk

8 Education All content © 2015 Families Warwickshire Families Warwickshire is a bi-monthly magazine for parents, covering Stratford-on-Avon and Districts with 21,500 copies. Towns covered include e New Year - New You Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick, and , plus Studley, Alcester, Bidford, Henley-in-Arden, Wellesbourne, Welford-on-Avon, Shipston-on-Stour, Southam and lots of the smaller r Theatre villages in between.

Advertise with us and reach r Half Term Holiday Clubs 40,000+ local parents and carers from just £30 a month! t Days Out Save £50! Next issue: March/April 2016 Deadline: Friday 5 February Free registration in January 2016 57 Fishponds Road, Kenilworth, CV8 1EY Families Warwickshire is part of Families Magazines Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines T: (01926) 857 280 | W: www.tommieschildcare.co.uk 5 in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Warwickshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every • Newly refurbished • Home-from-home care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the • ‘Good’ Ofsted environments claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the • Heuristic play & education • Extra curricular dance & contents nor for any consequence. • Free induction sessions sport sessions

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2 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 Nails Hair Big Garden Catwalk show Birdwatch Mocktails Last year over half a million people took part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch, spotting more than 8.5 million birds across the UK, and the organisers are hoping this year’s watch will be a record-breaking event. This year’s Party packages at survey takes place on 30 and 31 January. To take part, simply spend one hour counting New look museum the birds in your garden or local park, and record the highest number of each bird The British Motor Museum at Gaydon, species seen at any one time. The morning is 7 Augusta Place, Leamington Spa CV32 5EL formally known as the Heritage Motor the best time to look, when the birds are out Centre, re-opens Saturday 13 February and about feeding after a cold winter night. 01926 257280 after undergoing a major refurbishment to To sign up for a free Big Garden Birdwatch [email protected] show off the world’s largest collection of 2016 pack, go to www.raspberryhair.co.uk historic British cars to even better effect. With elevated views, more stories, cars to sit in, www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch new family activities plus an extra 230 cars Anima to see - some that you may not have seen LEt''s Animate before - there is lots more to keep your family entertained on a day out. Stop-motion Animation During every school holiday themed activities Workshops & Birthday Parties add to the fun, with crafts, trails, quizzes and interactive workshops. New for 2016 are www.letsanimate.co.uk family tours with one of the enthusiastic tour [email protected] 0797 3354567 guides who will help bring the cars to life and letsanimateuk letsanimate younger visitors can even cruise along in one of the push along cars. The onsite café has everything to keep you fuelled throughout your visit with hot and cold meals and children’s lunch boxes. Children can also let off steam in the outdoor play area. Getting you back to doing a job www.britishmotormuseum.com you love Courses start in North Oxon including Apple iPads, to create an 19th January 2016 animation studio that can be replicated at home. Participants experience designing, www.back2work.club storyboarding, set building, model making, lighting, animating, sound and editing, directing and producing their very own stop- motion animated movie that can then be Helping mums downloaded, viewed and shared. Let’s Animate’s most successful venture is the get back into Animation Birthday Parties. Supplying parties to ages 7+, these 3 hour sessions cover every the workplace aspect of creating an animated film, whilst eating birthday cake! Parties can be tailored An innovative idea has led to The to any theme; Brad aged 9 chose a Minecraft Back2Work Club™; geared towards party: helping people to return to work after Lights, camera, “Our 9-year-old son was joined by 5 friends a career break, such as mums who have plus his brother and sister. Everyone had a had time off to raise a family. Held at action! great time. The children split into 3 groups - Bloxham Mill in Banbury, The Back2Work each building a set, creating the characters, Club™ offers courses, workshops and Let’s Animate was founded by Gemma Amos, agreeing the script, capturing the stop online forums to help with confidence an industry professional with a passion for motion images on iPads and then adding the building, securing new posts, freelancing, implementing animation as a creative tool. sounds. launching new ventures and more. This mobile stop-motion animation company has been delivering fun-packed creative It was great to see the children working www.back2work.club animation courses, workshops, holiday clubs, together and exploring their imagination. birthday parties and much more throughout Most of all though, they were totally engaged Coventry and Warwickshire since 2012. and having fun! The iPad software was really rather clever and the resulting movies are Let’s Animate works with a variety of groups - actually excellent quality.” schools, galleries and museums, families and youth groups to name but a few - and uses For more information about the courses, animation to enhance expression, team skills, clubs and workshops Let’s Animate offers, problem solving, imaginative investigation please visit: www.letsanimate.co.uk and confidence, and above all, to have fun! email [email protected] call Gem on 0797 3354567 The Let’s Animate ‘hands on’ animation Your show is about to begin… experience uses a range of equipment,

@familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk 3 Top Tips to avoid a stressful and expensive divorce Traditionally, more people file for divorce you may consider if this is the case. Moore Do not hide information – it will come out! in January than any other time of the year. & Tibbits offer the collaborative process and Sometimes a client may think it is ingenious After the Christmas lock-in with a spouse, work alongside several good mediators. to conceal important information that they tensions often rise to the point where the think may work against them and that their idea of divorce makes its way onto the New Talk to friends and family spouse/solicitor will never find out. The Year’s resolution list. Moore and Tibbits’ Whilst you should always seek the advice of truth invariably comes out and, if in the divorce expert, Carline Gayle-Buckle, gives a professional, asking for support and advice middle of court proceedings, will adversely some simple advice on how to avoid a from friends and family can also really help. affect your outcome. Let your solicitor do stressful, expensive and drawn-out divorce. With almost half of UK marriages ending in their job properly by giving them all the divorce, you are bound to know somebody information. Seek professional advice who has been through the process. Find Emotions are often the driver in the divorce out what worked well and learn from their Take advice process and the angrier and more hurt a mistakes. Why pay a solicitor to give you legal advice client is, the more likely that the divorce will and simply ignore their guidance? If a be acrimonious. Speak with professional Don’t let others cloud your judgment solicitor has indicated it is a poor deal, it counsellors and family therapists at the Be wary of people who are quick to criticise usually is. very beginning to help you process your your ex-partner as they may make it more If you have a query regarding a family thoughts. This will help you make sensible difficult for you to keep things on civil terms. issue, please call Carline for free initial decisions that will protect you in the future Always remember it is in your best interests advice on 01926 491181 or email and save you money in the long run. to keep things friendly. [email protected]. Be clear on costs Research your finances The most common concern amongst first- If you have already begun to investigate time divorcees is the likely cost. Don’t be your finances - mortgage capacity, afraid to ask your solicitor for a clear price alternative accommodation cost - this at the start of the process once you have sets the initial meeting with the solicitor agreed the support you require of them. Our on a realistic footing and progress can be solicitors will offer you guidance when you made more swiftly than having to refer first instruct them, allowing you to avoid to independent financial advisors, tax legal costs that spiral out of control. accountants etc. It is also a good idea to try and make a list of who owns what. If this can Keep communication open and friendly be agreed early on, disagreements over low- This may not always be possible, but it is in value items can be avoided so your solicitor everyone’s interest if you are able to discuss can focus efforts on more important things and agree arrangements concerning your such as property, pensions and living children and finances together with your arrangements for your children. ex-partner. The longest and most expensive divorce cases are amongst ex-partners The more you argue, the more it will cost whose relationships have completely Clients need to be pragmatic and ready to broken down and they only communicate negotiate and settle and be mindful of the through legal representatives. Mediation or fact that extra legal costs will ultimately the collaborative law process are options lessen the final settlement you receive. Supreme Court strikes right balance on divorce By Juliet Allen, Family Barrister at No5 Chambers been deliberately duped by their former and Gohil had struck a wrong note. The husbands’ non-disclosure into accepting a outcomes just seemed, somehow, unfair, Disgruntled ex-partners looking to have substantially lower pay-off than they were notwithstanding the apparently well- their divorce settlements revisited have entitled to. reasoned, technical, decisions of the Court been given a clear message by the Supreme of Appeal in each matter.” Court - first check your facts! Family barrister at No5 Chambers Juliet Allen said: “A difficulty for the Supreme “It is likely that Sharland and Gohil will join Rather than opening the matrimonial Court in deciding these appeals was that the lexicon of the most cited authorities finance floodgates of partners rushing to the balance to be struck was likely in part to in matrimonial finance law. As lawyers take their former spouses back to court, the be policy-driven: the need on the one hand we must guard against over-zealous hotly anticipated judgment in the cases of to send a strong message to those who applications to set aside on the basis of Sharland v Sharland and Gohil v Gohil has would use dishonesty and non-disclosure minor issues of non-disclosure, particularly been seen to strike just the right balance as a means of influencing the outcome of where the cost of the litigation is likely to be between legitimate claim and bitter ex. matrimonial proceedings in their favour, disproportionate in the context of the non- Alison Sharland and Varsha Gohil were both and on the other hand, the need to avoid an disclosed assets. But at the same time, these permitted by the courts to re-visit their open invitation to apply to set aside consent two decisions are to be welcomed as they original divorce settlements on the grounds orders on the basis of the most flimsy issue take the law in this most discretionary of of fraud. The women claimed they had of non-disclosure.” areas in the right direction: towards clarity and fairness.” “Whilst each of the decisions handed down was determined in the context of its own If you need help with a divorce or any technical point of law, the Supreme Court’s aspects of family law, please visit www. approach to these issues appears to strike novatedls.com. Where appropriate, an initial the right balance between these two 30 minute conference with a barrister will be competing policy aims.” provided free of charge. If your case requires a solicitor, NoVate can recommend a legal “This comes as welcome news for many expert to suit your budget. matrimonial finance lawyers, for whom the Court of Appeal decisions in both Sharland www.novatedls.com

4 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 Clubs & Classes The gift of music, a gift for life Music education brings about many benefits and encouraging children Want the best to learn to play an instrument or to sing can enrich their lives and help them foster a lifelong love of music. Local organisation, Warwickshire Music Hub, has a clear vision: for your child “To ensure children in Warwickshire have the very best opportunities to through music? learn to play an instrument, learn to sing, play together in ensembles and progress to the next level of excellence.” Supporting high quality music education in over 200 Warwickshire schools, Warwickshire Music Hub has a highly trained team of 115 music specialists delivering everything from instrumental lessons to music therapy - and so much more. Children across the county are also able to take part in a range of ensemble and tuition activities after school and on Saturday mornings. Warwickshire Music Hub is supported by the Arts Council whose major funding input goes directly into music making for 11,700 local children and young people every week. Warwickshire Music Hub offers: • Instrumental and vocal tuition by fully qualified teachers Warwickshire Music Hub runs every sort of music event from school • Wide variety of after school music groups workshops to massive concerts at Symphony Hall in and • Music theatre groups Warwick Arts Centre at the University of Warwick. In 2016, more than • Specialist groups including Suzuki strings and drum school 1,000 young performers will take to the Butterworth Hall stage at • Performance opportunities throughout the year Warwick Arts Centre for a series of spectacular events: 11 March: Primary School Singers, County Choirs and the Coventry and Warwickshire Youth Orchestra “Thank you very much for a great 7 years of music. Tours, concerts and weekly practices with various CMS groups form some of my 12 March: Day of Wind featuring the County Wind Band and County Jazz Orchestra fondest memories and were certainly a wonderful opportunity.” 14 May: World Music and Rock & Pop Festival Sam - member of the County Youth Orchestra and Wind Band. 15 May: Strings Spectacular featuring special guests String Fever T: 01926 745111 [email protected] For more information on music opportunities for your child please contact Warwickshire Music Hub. www.warwickshiremusichub.org T: 01926 745111 E: [email protected] www.warwickshiremusichub.org Baby & Pre-school age 0-4 Your baby ! ! has the After School Drama! Club Now offering for 7-11 yrs and 12-16! yrs potential Arts Awards at Stratford Artshouse ! Fun filled, Action Packed Drama Workshops The in Stratford-upon-Avon Drama To find out more :- 10% off 07804 848674 first term We have [email protected] *T&Cs apply the expertise Club Our teachers are especially www.thedramaclub.org.uk trained to identify your tel: 01905 888 346 own child’s stage of visit: puddleducks.com development, nurture [email protected] confidence and unlock their DANCE WITH DASH potential to swim. • Quality dance classes in Shipston-on-Stour • From 18 months to adults • Ballet Tap Modern and Jazz • British Ballet Organization (BBO) syllabus • Pre-School Melody Bear class T: 07970 742256 www.dancewithdash.co.uk SOUTH LEAMINGTON NORTH LEAMINGTON STRATFORD-UPON-AVON SHIPSTON-ON-STOUR Calypso Kids MONDAY TUESDAY & THURSDAY MONDAY & WEDNESDAY MONDAY Pre-school Music Classes St. Anthony’s School CV31 1NJ CV32 6RD Stratford Leisure Centre CV37 6YY CV36 4DY 6-7pm Children 6-12 years 6pm-7pm Children 6-7pm Children 5-12 years 6-7pm Juniors for children aged 6 months - 4 years 7-8pm Teens and Adults 7pm-8pm Teens and Adults 7pm-8.30pm Adults 13+ 7pm-8pm Adults THURSDAY Contact Alex Wright: Contact John Archer: Contact John Archer: Classes on Wednesday and Friday Sydni Centre CV31 1PT 07969 111338 07973 408865 07973 408865 mornings at Townsend Hall, Sheep Street, 6 -7pm Children 6-12 years l Shipston-on-Stour CV36 4AE 7-8pm Teens and Adults Classes for Children & Adults l Family Discounts Available Discounts are available for siblings. Contact Gavin McAteer: l Book a FREE Taster Class 07971 002858 Fully qualified and CRB approved instructor Tel: 07890 399162 www.calypsokids.co.uk

@familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk 5 Clubs & Classes Parlez-vous français? Swim to it – Les Rainettes, the benefits originally called Le Petit Poucet, is a local of swimming francophone group which was created lessons many years ago by French expats whose by Kate Attwood, Puddle Ducks husbands were Franchisee working in Coventry As an activity that all the family at the Peugeot factory. can enjoy together, it is no wonder The factory closed that swimming is the largest its doors in 2006 and participation sport in the UK. There many of the group are lots of benefits to starting a returned to France. swimming class at an early age. As well as being a fun activity, it Marie Delvaux Lunn will also help develop water confidence and vital personal survival was a member at the time and was asked if she would take over and skills. lead the group – which she did. For babies and pre-schoolers it is best to choose a class that is The name of the group changed to Les Rainettes and started to based on their age and developmental stage so that they can welcome not only French people but anyone with a good level of learn amongst their peers and you will feel reassured that the French who wanted to communicate with native French speakers and activities within the class will be at the right level for them. Classes learn more about the culture. with smaller numbers of children will allow for more individual The members - mostly mother and toddlers - now meet every Friday attention and can mean that a programme can be tailored to each morning for a coffee and the grown-ups - ladies and partners - regularly child. meet at the pub for a drink or a meal on a Friday or Saturday night. They Kate Attwood, Business Owner at Puddle Ducks Worcestershire also arrange family gatherings for Christmas, Easter and Bastille Day. says: “Swimming is an enjoyable activity which helps them interact As well as exchanging books and clothes, they are a valuable source of with other children and encourages them to lead a healthy lifestyle support and advice to each other as well as to French people when they right from the start” first arrive here. You can take your baby for their first swim lesson as soon as they There are currently about 50 families in the group, from Coventry, are a couple of weeks old. Swimming at this age is a great way for Stratford, Warwick, Leamington and Kenilworth. Some of the members you both to relax and bond together and often leads to a better have recently decided to create a French school called ‘La petite école night’s sleep too. It’s worth looking out for a swim school that Marianne’ for children who live here and are being raised bilingually. allows you to stay with them through to school age so that they Marie Delvaux Lunn, who runs Les Rainettes, lives in Leamington Spa can continue their swimming journey with the same company. and is a native French teacher with over 10 years’ experience. For more Don’t forget, as well as being great for the children, swimming information about the group or about French classes, please contact classes are also a fantastic way to meet other local mums and dads Marie on 07918 110656 or email [email protected]. in the area. Have a look at classes in your area; there aren’t many www.lesrainetteslanguages.weebly.com children’s activities that teach a skill for life at the same time as being great fun! Developing potential with www.puddleducks.com Stagecoach Theatre Arts Stagecoach Leamington, Warwick and Kenilworth provides dance, drama and singing classes to 4-18 year olds. As well as having fun with friends and learning valuable performing arts skills, Stagecoach believes that the classes help children to develop their confidence and creativity, and stretch their imaginations. Classes run after school and at weekends to fit in with and compliment children’s schooling and students are given the opportunity to take part in some fabulous regional and national events, each time expanding their talents and building on their presentation skills. Stagecoach Leamington, Warwick and Kenilworth is offering a 2 week trial in January so book your child’s place today and give them Try tennis for FREE on a taste of the world of performing arts. Monday 11 January Contact Jacqui Dance, Warwick Boat Club is opening its doors on Monday 11 January and Principal of Stagecoach inviting children aged 5 to 11 to its Junior Tennis Open Afternoon. Leamington, Warwick There is a session for 5 to 7 year olds at 4pm-4.45pm, then for and Kenilworth on 8 to 11 year olds at 4.45pm-5.30pm. All levels are welcome, 07976 608574. including complete beginners. To book a FREE place, please email [email protected] or call Gavin on 07787 568642. www.stagecoach.co.uk/leamingtonspa www.stagecoach.co.uk/kenilworth www.warwickboatclub.co.uk

6 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 Clubs & Classes

Come and have fun at our Saturday DANCE CLASSES morning tennis coaching for H Southam Spanish & French Classes in Leamington Spa, Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sat juniors Kenilworth, Coventry & surrounding areas. H Leamington Music, Mondays instruments, H Alveston ADULT Any questions? All ages bubbles, Contact Gavin Henderson sensory play, Wednesdays CLASSES and abilities TOO! on 07787 568642 welcome. dance, puppets, H or email [email protected] elements of Sundays baby massage H Barford & yoga Saturdays Book your FREE Trial Lesson Call Claire on 07774 518949 [email protected] [email protected] 33, Mill Street, Warwick, CV34 4HB 07815 149877 www.warwickboatclub.co.uk www.bilinguasing.com www.loveballet.co.uk Free Junior Tennis Open Morning Saturday 28th March 10 am - 1 pm Age group guidelines10 am - 11 am 11 am - 12 am 4 - 7 years + parents 12 am - 1 pm 8 - 11 years + parents Rugby fun for 2-7 year olds 12-16 years + parents Ballet, tap, modern & French Languageor...come along at any time that suits you Tuition - all welcome! Private LanguageTo book Tuition - ring or email by Gavin experienced Henderson Fun non-contact rugby-based (Tennis Manager) 07787 568642 street dance classes [email protected] Car Park sessions for girls and boys French native tutor Marie DelvauxST NICHOLAS Lunn. PARK Classes available To Warwick Banbury Road A425 1/2 WARWICK from 2 years BOAT 33 Mill Street, Warwick CLUB Classes in Coventry, CV34 4HBGCSE and A-Level examRiver Avon Free trial & sibling discounts Parking in St Nicholas Park Warwick Kenilworth & Rugby preparationCastle IDTA & RAD exams www.warwickboatclub.co.uk1-to-1 French tuition Book your FREE taken annually 1-to-1 English tuition (TEFL) trial session at Biannual show

www.scrumkids.co.uk Classes in Claverdon & T: 07918 110656 Call 07791 852891 Wootten Wawen Facebook.com/scrumkids E: [email protected] Twitter.com/scrumkids www.lesrainetteslanguages.weebly.com www.krystlejaynedanceacademy.co.uk

TIME TO TAKE TO THE STAGE

Call Claire on 01926 335004 or email [email protected] ® to advertise in the Clubs and Classes pages in our next issue. warwickshireTIME TO @familieswarksTAKEfamilieswarwickshire THE www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk STAGE 7 Acting, singing and dance classes for 4 to 18 year olds. Summer and Half-Term Workshops available!

Find out more and start your child’s journey today stagecoach.co.uk/leamingtonspa 01789 263464 [email protected]

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd. Education Outside the classroom By Liat Hughes Joshi

These days, education is about much more than what goes on in the classroom. Most schools, whether state or private, offer a range of extra-curricular and enrichment activities and these can be fun, educational, sociable, confidence-boosting or all of the above. So how can you ensure your child capitalises on the opportunities on offer but still gets the balance right between work, rest and play? If your child is struggling, particularly if he or she finds their class work difficult, it might be worth putting additional effort into Choosing activities building skills at home or with a tutor. Talk to their teacher about Follow your son or daughter’s lead what help they need to focus on. Perhaps they can suggest fun but when deciding which classes to sign educational games, or workbooks. Tutoring can be expensive and up for - most children have a strong you need to check the tutor’s credentials (because anyone can set feel for what appeals to them. That said, it’s also worth pointing them up and call themselves a tutor) but one-to-one attention can have towards something you think they might benefit from, such as drama a remarkable impact on learning. sessions for a shy child. Try www.tutorhunt.com to search for local tutors. Don’t force a square peg into a round hole It might be ‘daddy’s dream’ for your son to be the next Beckham but if your little boy hates the idea, it’s unwise to force him into the Introducing the successful Change football club. Making children take up an activity that they really don’t feel good about, in the hope it’ll grow on them, can be counter- Maker programme to Warwickshire! productive. The Family Weight Management Team in Encourage persistence Rugby Borough Council Some of us have flighty children who get super-excited about an has been commissioned activity but within weeks, lose enthusiasm - unfortunately only once by Public Health you’ve coughed up a whole term’s fees. Consider having a rule that Warwickshire to deliver your child does have to see the period you paid for out before they a weight management can give up – they might well change their mind back after a few programme called weeks anyway! “Change Makers” for families in Warwickshire. How much is too much? The aim of the service is to help families lead a healthier lifestyle, both There’s no set answer about how many activities are optimal - it varies emotionally and physically, through weekly nutrition and physical for each child. Some will get more tired than others and find just one activity sessions. or two classes suffice, others embrace a packed schedule from karate Change Makers is a FREE, 9 week programme for children aged to clarinet without losing energy. 4-12 years old and their families, which take place during term time in schools, leisure and community centres. Each week there is a Needs change over time 45 minute healthy eating session which includes topics such as a Certainly most reception children are exhausted enough from school balanced diet, portion sizes, food labelling, and ideas for healthy for the first term or so without lengthening their day by adding extra breakfasts and lunches. A Sports Coach will then deliver a 45 minute activities. Keep things simple at this stage. Older primary children physical activity session - activities include tennis, dodge ball and kwik have a decent opportunity to learn a few different skills and enjoy cricket. classes, whereas once they start secondary, longer commutes, more For parents who are unsure whether or not to attend, one mum has homework and exam pressures might mean reining things in. some friendly advice, “I was nervous to attend but found the staff very patient and friendly. It has been informative and the kids looked Relaxation time is vital too forward to it every week. I will miss the adult chat and family-friendly Watch out for activity overscheduling - quiet contemplation and scope environment that has been non-judgemental. It’s been great fun.” to be creative and relax is just as important as that second musical Parents and Guardians can book onto the programme by contacting instrument or third sport. If your child doesn’t have space to just play the Change Makers team directly or by completing an online form and chill out, consider cutting back. at www.fitterfutureswarwickshire.co.uk. There is a wide variety of Change Maker courses already Taking things to the next level taking place and spaces are still if your child is coping well with all that school throws at them and available. they’ve found their passion, be it gymnastics or music, you could contact local clubs and associations to see how they can take their For more information: talent to the next level, with matches/performances or extra training. e: [email protected] t: 01788 533721 Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ Dawn Wilson, Family Learning Tutor for Adult and Community Learning, showing (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years families how to make simple healthy (Pearson). pizzas.

8 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 Education

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For further information, or to book a tour with the Headmaster, please call 01789 293795 www.croftschool.co.uk Alveston Hill, Loxley Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7RL

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@familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk 9 Education

A warm welcome from Warwick Junior School

Visitors to Warwick Junior School often comment on the happy atmosphere and the warm, caring relationship between staff and pupils. The school caters for approximately 250 boys Inspiring tuition– free aged 7 to 11. Most boys enter the Junior School at age 7, but entry is possible at age 8, 9 or trial session! 10. Class sizes are small with a maximum of 18 boys in the first year, rising to a maximum of 24 boys in year 6. Explore Learning centres provide maths External facilities at the school are outstanding and include a swimming pool and professional and English tuition for 5 to 14 year olds of theatre. 50 acres of playing fields include rugby pitches, cricket pitches and tennis courts. all abilities. The centres are open 7 days a Inside, the wonderful facilities continue with bright, modern classrooms and include a fully week, meaning Explore can fit into busy equipped laboratory, art studio, library, two ICT suites and a fully equipped design and family life. technology workshop. As Explore members, children work with The school recognises that every boy is unique and that each will have a distinct set of abilities tutors who are great educational role and talent. So, in addition to what happens in the classroom, boys have the opportunity to models, enthusiastic about learning and take part in a huge range of activities including Animation, Archery, Choir, Cookery, Cricket, fantastic motivators. Each child has an Debating, Drama, Fencing, Football, Golf, Guitar, Hockey, Kung Fu, Orchestra, Rock Band, Horse individualised learning programme, and Riding, Water Polo and many more. all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum in England and the Curriculum Don’t take our word for it, do visit the school yourself. New taster sessions are available for your for Excellence in Scotland. son to spend a morning at the school, taking part in lessons and having fun at break time and lunch. Please call Warwick Junior School on 01926 776418 to book a place. Find out how your child can benefit from Explore Learning membership today. Book Junior School Open Morning: Saturday 16 January, 10am-12noon your free trial at 7+ Entrance Assessments: Monday 22 February www.explorelearning.co.uk www.warwickschool.org/home

The Croft Preparatory School Stratford Preparatory School King Henry VIII Senior School Independent Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 7RL Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6BG Coventry CV3 6AQ Schools T: 01789 293795 T: 01789 297993 T: 024 7627 1111 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Contact Details www.croftschool.co.uk www.stratfordprep.co.uk www.kinghenrys.co.uk and Open Days Sat 19 March, 10am-12noon: Early Thurs 14 Jan, 10am-2pm and 6pm- Tues 2 Feb, 9.30am-12.30pm: Open Years and Pre-Prep Open Morning 8pm: Open Day House Arnold Lodge Leamington Spa CV32 5TW Henley Montessori Primary and Warwick Preparatory School King’s High T: 01926 778050 Merrydays Montessori Nursery Warwick CV34 6PL T: 01926 491545 Warwick CV34 4HJ E: [email protected] Henley-in-Arden B95 5JP E: [email protected] T: 01926 494485 www.arnoldlodge.com T: 01564 792427 www.warwickprep.com E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Sat 30 Jan, 9.30am-12 noon: Open www.kingshighwarwick.co.uk Bablake Pre Prep www.henleymontessori.co.uk Morning Sat 12 Mar: Taster Morning (for entry Coventry CV1 2LH 2017) T: 024 7622 1677 King Henry VIII Prep School Warwick School E: [email protected] Coventry CV3 6PT Warwick CV34 6PP T: 01926 776400 T: 024 7627 1307 E: [email protected] Rugby CV23 9PX Bablake Junior School E: [email protected] www.warwickschool.org T: 01926 634201 Coventry CV1 4AU www.khps.co.uk Sat 16 Jan, 10am-12 noon: Junior E: [email protected] T: 024 7627 1260 School Open Morning www.princethorpe.co.uk E: [email protected] Week commencing Mon 11 Jan, Thurs 7 Jan, 10.30am-12.30pm: Open www.bablakejuniorschool.co.uk Leamington Spa CV32 5RD 8.30am-12.45pm: Taster Mornings Morning Sat 30 Jan, 10am-12 noon: Open T: 01926 421368 To book a place Morning E: [email protected] T: Mrs Turner 01926 776418 Warwick School www.thekingsleyschool.com E: [email protected] Warwick CV34 6PP Crackley Hall School and Little Sat 27 Feb: Preparatory School T: 01926 776400 Crackers Nursery Open Morning E: [email protected] Kenilworth CV8 2FT Sat 5 Mar: Taster Morning for Year 7 Senior Schools www.warwickschool.org T: 01926 514444 (for entry in September 2017) E: [email protected] Tues 8 Mar: Reception/Year 3 Taster Bablake Senior School www.crackleyhall.co.uk Day (for entry in September 2016) Coventry CV1 4AU T: 024 7627 1200 Tues 12 Jan, 10am-3pm: Open Day E: [email protected] Sat 12 Mar, 10.30am-12.30pm: Open www.bablake.com Morning

10 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 Education An End to the Act of Worship? Discover your talents... A study from the Arts and Humanities Research Council has said that British schools should no longer be forced to include a daily act of worship. In reality, they say that 76% of schools do not provide an act of worship, so in effect are breaking the law. The Council claims that because these acts tend to be Christian, they could Discover your talents at The Kingsley School, where we discriminate against other religions. Parents know your name and what you are capable of. often do not realise that they can remove Preparatory School Open Morning their child from worship too, they said. 27th February 2016 - 11am - 1pm At the moment, schools in England, www.thekingsleyschool.co.uk @kingsley_school Scotland and Northern Ireland are, in theory, obligated to provide a daily act of collective worship. While in faith schools, this would be in line with the school’s Should All School Staff Have particular faith, in non-religious schools, First Aid Training? the act of worship at the moment tends to take on a Christian flavour, though it is Teachers at a school in York did not realise when usually nondenominational. they went on a first aid training course that they would use their newly learned skills just a few The University of Leicester has made months later. recommendations that the government re-think the rule. They state problems with When a 15-year-old boy, Alex, collapsed after the law, which was introduced in 1945, suffering a cardiac arrest in a PE class, his teacher include how appropriate the acts are in a Shona Jagger and the school’s matron, Erica multicultural society, how the rights of all Melsom, came to his aid with their skills and a groups can be included, including those defibrillator. with no faith, and raise concerns that the CPR training is only taught in a quarter of schools acts do not enhance the spiritual education but the British Heart Foundation says that it would of children. WarwickSchool 87like by mandatory 130 JS Open CR Morning training Jan in all RunBoys schools. 2016_Layout 1 04

Apply now for 2016 entry An Independent Day School and Nursery for boys aged 3-7 and girls aged 3-11

Last tours (Junior School only) 11.30am Open Morning Open Morning Entrance Assessments Saturday 16 January 2016 Saturday 30 January 2016 for girls aged 7+ 9.30am – 12.00noon Monday 22 February 2016 10.00am ­ 12.00 noon Register now for entry in September 2016. For details and a prospectus Warwick Warwick Preparatory School, Bridge Field, Banbury Road, Warwick CV34 6PL please contact: [email protected] | 01926 491545 | www.warwickprep.com The Admissions Registrar School T: 01926 776414 Independent boys’ E: [email protected] school (7­18 years) www.warwickschool.org Warwick Preparatory School is part of the Warwick Independent Schools Foundation, together with King’s High School and Warwick School, providing high quality education for boys and girls aged 3-18.

@familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk 11 New Year Three of the best post-baby fitness DVDs Pregnancy Health Yoga with Tara Lee £14.99 A very comprehensive DVD that offers a choice of eight workout routines all suitable for pregnancy. It promises not just to strengthen your muscles but to give you more energy and help you relax too. It includes a birth visualisation by Dr Gowri Motha, the creator of the Gentle Birth Method too. My Pre & Post Natal Workouts £34.99 Davina McCall You name the reason for exercise, Davina has made a DVD for it. But she really does know quite a bit about fitness during pregnancy and afterwards. In this DVD, Davina and her personal trainer Jackie Wren show you how to New Year – New You? do a workout in two sections for before and How to start a new exercise regime when you’re a busy mum after you have your baby. Well thought out and well presented. By Sally J. Hall Post Natal Pilates £9.99 It seems as soon as Christmas Day is over, two types of advertisement start to appear Caroline Sandry on the television; the first are for holidays for the following summer, showing gorgeous Pilates is a very powerful people in tiny bikinis and trunks, cavorting across golden sands. The others - yes, you’ve form of exercise that gives guessed it. Weight loss. you great strength in your It’s no surprise that the fitness industry class, can’t keep up, end up red in the face core, abdominal muscles targets us just as we throw ourselves, and aching all over and dread going back, it’s and also has the muscle groaning with overeating, onto the sofa for not the right exercise for you. Try out a few lengthening effects of a few hours of feel-good films. Their research different classes - everything from kick boxing yoga. This DVD offers safe shows that most people start a new exercise to zumba is available these days, in gyms and and effective exercises regime in January, with a huge boost in gym church halls - and then pick the one you like designed to be used at different stages, memberships around that time. It seems the most. If you have joined a gym, you might from right after birth or as soon as you feel there is something motivational in having a find it works better to do a different thing able. Stage one works on your pelvic floor whole new year to look ahead to and many of each time. Try to include something that gets and the muscles of the pelvis and abdomen. us start of with great new resolutions - even if your heart racing, something stretchy and Stage two checks that those muscles are they fall by the wayside by March. something that involves weights. getting back to normal and then moves on to improving their strength and tone. There are Add to this the complication of being a Children come too also two workouts to get you breathing hard busy mum. When, for goodness sake, are Haven’t got anyone to help with your little and that oxygen coursing around your body you going to find the time for a new fitness ones? Want to get a few more steps done this to help with the healing process. regime to shift those few pounds you put on week? Take the children with you. Go to a over the winter or to get the baby weight off? local park with scooters, bikes and baby in a Don’t despair, we have a few great ideas. pushchair and walk around the outside of the Handy home equipment park, encouraging the children to race you. Preparation is key Not only will you all get an oxygen boost, Dumbbells from £4.99 Before you start any kind of exercise routine, they will sleep really well that night. Reebok check with your doctor (or midwife if you’re Weighing from one to five kilos, these pregnant) that it’s OK. If you’ve recently given Using baby weights are ideal for banishing the bingo birth, wait until after your six week check-up. If you are at home quite a lot with a very wings. Get pumping! They come in five If you had a C-section or other complications, young baby and don’t yet feel ready for colours – one colour for each weight. you might want to wait a while longer. Always a work out at a gym, try some exercises Rowing Action Exerciser £12 start with stretches to warm your muscles at home. There are quite a few post-natal and don’t overdo anything. If you start to Pineapple exercise DVDs available that start you off This little gadget will help you get fitter at hurt, it’s your body’s way of telling you to gently and most importantly, know how stop. Start with a small, short routine and home and will tuck away under the bed when to support and strengthen your body as it not in use. It can be used in a rowing motion gradually increase the time you spend and returns to your pre-pregnancy shape. Pop in the intensity of your work-out. to help tone your thighs, bottom, abdominal the DVD, do a few exercises and have your muscles and back. baby on a play mat next to you so that you’re Let’s swap still close. You can even use your baby to Pilates Stretch Bands from £9 Chances are your nearest and dearest may strengthen your arms by lifting her over and Calmia also be feeling the belt pinch. So talk through over - she’ll love it too! Use these oversized stretch bands to give you your desires for some time to yourself to get a resistance to help tighten abdominals, tone little fitter and suggest you swap. He has the Quick bursts your arms, children while you go to the gym, for a swim, The time when your baby naps can be great back and for a long walk - whichever you feel you like for a quick burst, one of the hottest new shoulders, the most. Then do the same for him another fitness trends right now. Do push-ups against and slim day. If you’re single, could you and a friend the wall or on your knees, use small weights your legs swap exercise times? to tighten arms (tins of beans work just as and behind. well), do squats and a few yoga poses for In three Do what you like flexibility and strength in your core. colours. It may sound obvious but choose an activity you actually enjoy. If you join a spinning

12 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 What’s on? Family Shows February Half Term Clubs, Wendy and Peter Pan The Remarkable Tale of Oliver Royal Shakespeare Theatre Twist Camps and Workshops Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6BB Warwick Arts Centre Coventry CV4 7AL Until Sun 31 Jan Sun 14 Feb Fly to Neverland with Ella Hickson’s Red Earth’s production brings Oliver’s acclaimed re-telling of JM Barrie’s classic story vividly to life for children and children’s story. Wendy, Peter, Tink and the grown-ups. Introduce your children to the Lost Boys are waiting to take you on an amazing world of Charles Dickens and unforgettable journey. Recommended for his remarkable tale of Oliver Twist. Sign ages 7+. Language Integrated CAPS Captioned Box Office: 0844 800 1110 Theatre. Recommended for ages 6+. www.rsc.org.uk Box Office: 024 7652 4524 www.warwickartscentre.co.uk By Manuel Harlan Goldilocks and the Three Bears Royal Spa Centre Leamington Spa CV32 4HN Tues 16 Feb This new dazzling pantomime style show is magically brought to life with amazing sets, stunning costumes, magic, illusion, special effects, song, dance, puppets and an abundance of laughter. Box Office: 01926 334418 African Children’s Choir Concert www.royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk Stratford ArtsHouse Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6LU Gangsta Granny Fri 15 Jan The Belgrade Theatre Coventry CV1 1GS This concert reflects the energy, beauty, Tues 16-Sat 20 Feb dignity and unlimited ability of these From the acclaimed producers of Horrible incredible children through song, Histories comes the world premiere of this music and dance. Many of the Choir amazing story by David Walliams, the UK’s Children have lost one or both parents best-selling author for children. Join Ben as to poverty and disease. The performance he embarks on the adventure of a lifetime is both uplifting and humbling and is an with his very own Gangsta Granny! opportunity to experience the vitality of Box Office: 024 7655 3055 Aspire Active Camps Onside Coaching the youth from this challenged continent. www.belgrade.co.uk North Leamington School in Warwick and Stratford Box Office: 01789 207100 Leamington Spa CV32 6RD upon Avon School www.stratfordartshouse.co.uk Mon 15-Fri 19 Feb, 10am-4pm Mon 15-Fri 19 Feb, 9.30am-3.30pm Fun childcare for children aged 4-13. Lots Multi sports, football and dance. Extended Tom Thumb of sports and activities to choose from. day available. Warwick Arts Centre Coventry CV4 7AL Wraparound available. T: 01926 496406 Sun 31 Jan T: 01926 298178 www.onsidecoaching.co.uk Celebrating nature, with sensory play and www.aspire-sports.co.uk participation, children are encouraged to Motionhouse explore their local natural environments, Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Spencer Yard, Leamington Spa CV31 3SY with music to sing along to and stepping- Trinity School, Leamington Spa CV32 6NB Mon 15-Thurs 18 Feb, 10am-12.30pm stones to follow Tom Thumb’s adventure Thurs 18 Feb, 9am-3.30pm Informal and fun, high-energy dance after the show. Recommended for ages 4-7. Workshop day with a west end star! classes for ages 8-11. Explore acrobatic Box Office: 024 7652 4524 Fun, challenging workshop for those who moves and partnering, develop new skills www.warwickartscentre.co.uk enjoy performing! and make new friends whilst working T: 01789 263464 together to create a short piece for Pocket Dream www.stagecoach.co.uk/leamingtonspa performance. The Belgrade Theatre Coventry CV1 1GS Snow White Mon 15-Thurs 18 Feb, 1.30pm-4.30pm Thurs 4-Sat 6 Feb Warwick Arts Centre Coventry CV4 7AL Fit for Sport Dance classes for ages 12-18 in a fun and Sixty minute fast-moving, easily Thurs 18-Sat 20 Feb Stratford Leisure Centre relaxed environment. Develop dance understood and visually stunning version balletLORENT’s dance theatre adaptation Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6YY technique and confidence through of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Full of of one of the most well-loved Brothers Mon 15-Fri 19 Feb, 9.30am-4.30pm creative and choreographic tasks that will clarity, poetry, humour and imagination, Grimm fairytales is a tale of magical A wide range of fun multi sports and be part of a small sharing of work by the with a little bit of magic thrown in. mirrors, unexpected friendships and the activities. For ages 4-5, 6-7 and 8-12. end of the week. An inspiring introduction not only to importance of inner beauty. An enchanting Extended day available. T: 01926 887052 Shakespeare, but also to the very best of dance theatre production for the whole T: 0845 456 3233 www.motionhouse.co.uk English theatre. Suitable for all ages. family. Recommended for ages 7+. www.fitforsport.co.uk/venues/stratford- Box Office: 024 7655 3055 Box Office: 024 7652 4524 leisure-centre Let’s Animate Animation www.belgrade.co.uk www.warwickartscentre.co.uk Workshops Holiday Club Fargo Village, Coventry CV1 5ED Alice in Wonderland Snow Child Warwick School, Warwick CV34 6PP Mon 15 Feb, 9.30am-11.30am, 12noon-2pm, Stratford ArtsHouse Warwick Arts Centre Coventry CV4 7AL Mon 15-Fri 19 Feb, 9am to 4pm 2.30pm-4.30pm Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6LU Fri 19-Sat 20 Feb Short courses for ages 6-12. Activities Come with all the family and create a Thurs 4-Sun 7 Feb A magical story about family, love and the include wall climbing, gymnastics, cookery, short stop motion styled animated movie, This family show promises to plough the power of dreams. With atmospheric music, squash, beginners’ cricket and more. think Wallace & Gromit! Film makers will audience into the heart of Wonderland. beautiful movement and an inspired T: 01926 735473 experience model making, set building, The story tells the tale of Alice returning to design, this promises to be a wonderland www.warwickschool.org/Holiday- animating/filming, voice recording and Wonderland once she’s a little older and of poignant, inventive storytelling Activities editing. Each film maker will receive a has lost all her memories of ever having to enchant children and families. certificate, their created models and a been there before. With fabulous musical Recommended for ages 3-7. Tennis Camp copy of their very own animated movie to numbers, this is a show that you will not Box Office: 024 7652 4524 Warwick Boat Club, Warwick CV34 6PP share with friends and family. £8 per child. want to miss! www.warwickartscentre.co.uk Mon 15-Thurs 18 Feb, 9am to 2pm Booking is essential. Box Office: 01789 207100 Open to members and non-members. E: [email protected] www.stratfordartshouse.co.uk Digitopia All abilities. £20 a day members £25 non- www.letsanimate.co.uk Warwick Arts Centre Coventry CV4 7AL members. Sir Scallywag and the Battle of Fri 26-Sun 28 Feb T: 07787 568642 Stinky Bottom A dancing digital wonderland! Tom www.warwickboatclub.co.uk Royal Spa Centre Dale Company creates extraordinary Leamington Spa CV32 4HN performances that bring together urban Activate Sports Sun 14 Feb contemporary dance, electronic music and Warwick School, Warwick CV34 6PP Family concert! With music by Ensemble digital art. A visually stunning integration Weds 17-Fri 19 Feb, 9.30am-4.30pm 360 and narrated by Polly Ives. of live dance and digital technology. Louis Smith Gymnastics Academy. For ages Recommended for ages 3-7. Recommended for ages 5+. 5-14. Extended hours available. Box Office: 01926 334418 Box Office: 024 7652 4524 T: 01785 711572 www.royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk www.warwickartscentre.co.uk www.activatesport.co.uk

@familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk 13 Places to go and things to do in January and February See the What’s On pages of www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk for more ideas!

The MAD Museum fascinating animal behaviour to breath- War 1! Head to the exhibition to see how it Royal Shakespeare Company Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6PT taking wild landscapes. FREE. was really done in 1914. Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6BB Great day out! The only specialist museum T: 024 7623 7521 Harvard House The RSC welcomes families and offers of its kind in the UK, housing an impressive www.theherbert.org Build Shakespeare’s Houses: You’ve visited lots of fun things to do for all ages of collection of eccentric and ingenious the Shakespeare houses, and now you children and their parents. There are creations. With over 60 pieces of kinetic art Hatton Adventure World can build them yourself! Learn how Tudor free exhibitions and trails, a variety of and automata, the museum has machines Nr Warwick CV35 8XA houses were built, and help the team build events during the school holidays, as that engage young and old. Buttons Enjoy the perfect family day out. There’s their own miniature versions! Learn about well as workshops for all ages. Pick up an to press, handles to turn, lights, colour lots to see and do both indoors and out mucky wattle and daub, and the dangers adventure bag from the foyer and become and weird sounds as well as beautifully and special events throughout the year. of a thatched roof. an explorer and discover all sorts of stuff handcrafted pieces of imaginative art. Amazing Animal Antics Anne Hathaway’s Cottage about Shakespeare and the theatres in T: 01789 269356 In January Baking Day at the Cottage: Visit Anne Stratford-upon-Avon. www.themadmuseum.co.uk Get involved with rat and rabbit agility Hathaway’s Cottage to do some baking Family Day: Wendy & Peter Pan shows, cuddle cute and furry friends or ‘the old fashioned way’. Dress up as a Sat 9 Jan 2016, 10.15am-11.15am Hill Close Gardens handle a snake. Amazing animal crafts, Victorian descendent of Shakespeare’s Join members of the Wendy & Peter Pan Warwick CV34 6HF shows in the family theatre and falconry wife, Anne Hathaway, and try your hand at Company and Creative Team to explore A lovely place to visit. Children’s trail displays throughout the day. some delicious historic recipes. the theatre making process, includes an available. Explore the gardens and find the Family Fun Circus T: 01789 204016 opportunity to take part. answers to all the questions. February Half Term www.shakespeare.org.uk £5 adults, £3.50 children. Snowdrop Weekend Family Fun Circus was brand NEW for Lost in Neverland Trail Sat 6 and Sun 7 Feb, 11am-4pm 2015 and it was so much fun that it’s back National Trust Properties Until Sun 10 Jan 2016 Take your children round the gardens for February half term. A full programme Families with children of all ages will find The Lost Boys and Tink have been playing and see all the beautiful snowdrops. of indoor entertainment with circus skill plenty to keep everyone busy at our local all around the building and have lost some Indoor table-top display of many different workshops and shows. PLUS our newly National Trust properties. Rain or shine of their toys and friends. Pick up a FREE varieties. Snowdrops, and other spring born lambs will be here for you to meet! there’s always something to discover, self-guide trail to discover magical fairies bulbs and plants for sale. Café. T: 01926 843411 plenty of space to run around and an and lost property. T: 01926 493339 www.hattonworld.com/farmvillage outdoor adventure to be had. Make Believe: The Art of Neverland www.hillclosegardens.com Until Sun 21 Feb 2016 Baddesley Clinton B93 0DQ Explore the world of Wendy & Peter Pan Shakespeare Houses T: 01564 783294 through the eyes of artists and illustrators, Herbert Art Gallery Visit Shakespeare’s Family Homes in and Coventry CV1 5QP www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ as well as original costume and stage around Stratford-upon-Avon. There are There are plenty of fun things for families baddesleyclinton designs for the magical RSC family show. children’s activities - puzzles, quizzes and to do whenever you visit the Herbert. Charlecote Park Clore Learning Centre Waterside trails - to help bring their visit to life and Hands on experiences, dressing up, touch Nr Warwick CV35 9ER Family Workshop: Wendy & Peter Pan special events throughout the year. screen interactives, story baskets and trails. T: 01789 470277 Sat 16 Jan, 10am-11.30am February Half Term War Games www.nationaltrust.org.uk/charlecote- Family Workshop: Dream Activities included in admission. Until Sun 17 Jan 2016 park Sat 20 Feb, 10am-11.30am Mon 15-Sun 21 Feb A highly interactive exhibition for adults Packwood House These practical workshops will have you Shakespeare’s Birthplace and children alike, War Games examines B94 6AT on your feet working as an actor. No Tudor Toys: Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace the role of war in childhood play and T: 01564 782024 previous experience or knowledge of the to discover the toys young William would strategic games from the 1800s to the www.nationaltrust.org.uk/packwood play required. £5 adults, £3.50 children. have played with when he was a boy. Put present day, through a series of intriguing Upton House For ages 8+. your hands into the feel boxes to work out and immersive activities. FREE. Nr Banbury OX15 6HT T: 01789 403493 what is hidden inside, and then have a go Wildlife Photographer of the Year T: 01295 670266 www.rsc.org.uk/families yourself! Fri 5 Feb-Sun 10 Apr www.nationaltrust.org.uk/upton Hall’s Croft With stunning images, the world- Coughton Court Crack the Code: Can you crack the secret renowned exhibition, on loan from the Alcester B49 5JA code? Come to Hall’s Croft to figure out Natural History Museum in London, T: 01789 400777 secret messages, and write your own in features 100 awe-inspiring images, from www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ invisible ink – just like spies did in World coughton-court

A day out indoors! On a recent cold and wet, wintery day, we had a great day out in Stratford-upon-Avon where we visited the Butterfly Farm and The MAD Museum. Both attractions are quite unique and are perfect for all the family. Stratford Butterfly Farm is set in a large tropical greenhouse so you can stroll through the wonderful world of an exotic rainforest whatever the weather. We loved watching hundreds of the world’s most spectacular and colourful butterflies flying and feeding in this wonderful tropical environment and had fun spotting the curious iguanas and feeding the enormous fish. Educational as well as interesting, you can literally watch the lifecycle of a butterfly in the Emerging Cage. In Insect City and Arachnoland, we saw lots of creepy crawlies and mini-beasts from beetles and giant snails to chameleons and deadly spiders. We finished off our visit at the well-stocked gift shop. After lunch, we headed to The MAD Museum. This place is guaranteed to put a smile on your face whether you’re 5 or 95 (our group ranged from 7 to 71!). It is full of fascinating contraptions which are brought to life at the press of a button and which mesmerise you as you take in what you are looking at and try to fathom out how the inventor put the whole thing together in the first place! It’s quirky, eccentric and somewhat bonkers - visiting the toilet is also an experience as the theme of the museum carries on there as well. You can also pick up gadgets and games in the gift shop. It’s hard to pick favourites, but we particularly liked the marble runs and rolling ball machines, the moving heads of Einstein and Shakespeare and the kitchenator! www.butterflyfarm.co.uk www.theMADmuseum.co.uk

14 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 What’s on? British Motor Museum WORKSHOPS car travel? Will it glide along the Gaydon CV34 0BJ How cool is your British car? ground or float away? Build a British Car Week Sat 13 & Sun 14 Feb, 10am-3pm Build a rubber band powered car February Half Term Build a British car in our LEGO® Sat 20 Feb, 10am-3pm You and your family are invited to Education Innovation Studio and see Use a rubber band to power your the re-opening of the British Motor where it ends up on our cool wall. LEGO® brick British car, can you beat Museum, 13-21 February, where you Technic Workshops the current British Motor Museum’s can join us for a week of British cars. Mon 15-Thurs 18 Feb, 10am-3pm record? Every day test your knowledge with Design, build and test your own 25 Brick Challenge the ‘Family Story’ trail and join one of vehicle using LEGO® technics and Sun 21 Feb 10am-3pm our workshops in our LEGO® Education become an engineering apprentice for Can you build a British Motor Car with Innovation Studio where you can get the day, see what you can design! 25 LEGO® bricks and four wheels? creative, building a British car with Build a balloon powered car T: 01926 641188 LEGO® bricks. Fri 19 Feb 10am-3pm www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk How far will your LEGO® brick sports

Ryton Pools Country Park Visit www.ursulawestwood.com for more given written permission to attend alone. CV8 3BH information about felt making. Adults T: 01926 742700 Ideal for family day out. Lots to do and £20.00, Children £10.00, Adult & Child www.warwickdc.gov.uk/ full programme of special events. £25.00. Booking essential. royalpumprooms Toddler Trundle T: 024 7630 5592 Every Wednesday, 10am-11.30am http://countryparks.warwickshire. Brandon Marsh Nature A weekly event for the tiniest of tiddlers! gov.uk Reserve £3 per toddler. Coventry CV3 3GW Haggis Hunt Kenilworth Castle Great for families, lots to explore, Sun 17 Jan, 11am-12.30pm Kenilworth CV8 1NE including an orchard, a mouse maze, Join a Ranger and have a go at making From getting hands-on with history at mini-beast homes, bird watching hides, a The UKs Largest Tropical your very own haggis and compete in an action-packed event, to exploring recycled garden, a sensory garden and a the Ryton Highland Games! For ages 3+, the vast grounds, Kenilworth Castle and nature trail. Under-cover picnic area, tea Butterfly Paradise! children must be accompanied by an Elizabethan Garden offers plenty to do room and well stocked gift shop. Regular Open Every Day adult. £3.50 per child. Booking essential. on a family day out. activity sessions for toddlers, Nature Except Christmas Day Family Wildlife & Soup Walk Knights and Princesses Academy Tots, and half term activities such as den Please check our website for last entry times as they Sat 30 Jan, 1pm-3pm Mon 15-Fri 19 Feb, 10.30am-3.30pm building. vary seasonally

A bracing winter stroll around the park Join our academy for budding knights T: 024 7630 2912 Butterflies • Birds • Fish • Iguanas looking out for winter wildlife. Finish up and princesses, with hands on medieval www.warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk with a warming bowl of delicious soup fun. Transform yourself into a courtly and much more... and a roll. Adults £7, Concessions £5.50, Lord or Lady with tips on everything Swan’s Nest Lane, Stratford-upon-Avon Family £22. Booking essential. from curtsies to combat. Warwick CV34 4QU Warwickshire, CV37 7LS Chilly Winter Fun Trail T: 01926 852078 Tel. 01789 299288 Jaw-dropping history, magic, myth and [email protected] Sat 13-Sun 21 Feb www.english-heritage.org.uk/ adventure! A great day out for the whole Follow the chilly winter trail around the kenilworthcastle family all year round. www.butterflyfarm.co.uk park to help you warm up – half term fun T: 0871 265 2000 for all the family. Collect your trail sheet Leamington Spa Art Gallery & www.warwick-castle.com from the Visitor Centre. £2 per trail sheet. Museum Mini-beast Hotels Leamington Spa CV32 4AA Mon 15 Feb, 11am-12.30pm Who will buy? Find out about mini-beasts, see if you Sat 30 Jan, 11am-4pm can find any and then have a go at Step through the shop window for a making a mini-beast hotel with natural family friendly day of storytelling, craft and recycled materials to take home for making and more as we launch ‘Through your garden. For ages 3+, children must the Shop Window’, an exhibition about be accompanied by an adult. £3.50 per shopping in Royal Leamington Spa. Meet 4-5 Henley Street, child. Booking essential. our Edwardian shop keeper and hear Stratford Upon Avon, CV37 6PT Frosty Winter Lanterns the stories of Burgess and Colbourne as www.theMADmuseum.co.uk Tues 16 Feb, 11am-12.30pm part of National Storytelling week. There Make a willow frame, cover it with bright will also be a chance to add your own tissue and add some frosty decorations, artwork and memories to the exhibition 01789 269356 then take it home and see your creation with a special Art Cart activity creating glow with your night light inside. For shopping memory boxes. FREE, drop in & ages 3+, children must be accompanied join in. Suitable for the whole family. by an adult. £3.50 per child. Booking Young Curators Club essential. Tues 16 Feb, 2pm-3pm Fantastic Felted Mini-Beast Workshop Explore behind the scenes to learn more Weds 17 Feb, 10.30am-12.30pm about Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Make your favourite insect or mini-beast Museum collections and become an Quote ‘Families Warwickshire’ with felt artist, Ursula Westood. Learn object photographer for the afternoon. and get 10% discount! this specialist craft and have lots of fun FREE event. Places are limited so please making felt with wood, soap and water! book in advance. For ages 8+. Children All resources and materials supplied. must be accompanied by an adult or

Welcome to Jungle Town! An inspiring children’s play experience Are you the parent or encouraging imagination guardian of a play and development! 4-12 year old living in Warwickshire?

A free family programme providing support and advice to help families make healthier lifestyle choices.”

For more information Open at Stratford Garden Centre call (01788) 533721 or Visit www.jungletown.co.uk email [email protected]” or call 01789 296637

@familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk 15 Fixed fees Museum re-opens available Saturday 13 February DIVORCE new name... IS NEVER more cars... new exhibits... Family fun whatever the weather EASY But we try to make it easier. We are passionate about providing the very highest standards of client service and never lose sight of the fact that although practical issues need to be resolved, feelings and emotions are just as important. £39 FAMILY We can help with a wide variety of family law problems. BUY 1 DAY GET TICKET 12 MONTHS FREE* Please contact Carline for free initial advice 01926 491181 britishmotormuseum.co.uk [email protected] Junction 12 M40 . Warwickshire . CV35 0BJ GET SOCIAL... Moore & Tibbits Solicitors a member of come and see www.qualitysolicitors.com/moore-tibbits what’s new... 34 High Street, Warwick CV34 4BE Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No.563197

FEBRUARY HALF TERM AT COVENTRY MUSEUMS Saturday 13 – Sunday 21 February

COVENTRY HERBERT ART PRIORY TRANSPORT GALLERY & VISITOR MUSEUM MUSEUM CENTRE

Find out more at www.theherbert.org and www. transport-museum.com

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16 [email protected] T: 01926 335004