Issue 37 March/April 2017 FREE

Gloucestershire

St Edward’s Preparatory School Reception: Off To A Great Start... Page 7

Really useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in Editor’s Letter News & Views Dear readers Call For Official Spring has sprung, the trees are Slimbridge Scoops Gold blossoming and the flowers are coming WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre has been awarded Gold Screen Time Guidance into bloom. The days are getting longer accolade status from the Visit England, Visitor Attraction Quality If you have ever worried about the and the weather is feeling warmer. Scheme. This is a huge national achievement as the accolade is amount of time your children spend in not given lightly and only a small proportion of visitor front of smartphones, computers, And with the Easter Hols just around attractions receive it every year. consoles and TV, you are certainly not the corner, now is the time to start alone. A group of 40 leading authors, thinking about unplugging your little darlings from whatever Visit England accolades are available to attractions that are part educationalists and child-development electronics they have become attached to and getting them out of the Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme and are allocated experts have called for official guidelines of the house for some fresh air and good old fashioned fun. through a robust scoring system based on an annual assessment on screen use by children up to 12 to be by Visit England. The highly prized Gold accolade award is drawn up by recognised authorities on The benefits of being active outside for our physical health and reserved for top-scoring attractions and it is thanks to the hard child health and development. mental well-being are well documented and it is especially work and commitment of all the staff and volunteers that important for young children. Slimbridge has achieved this prestigious status. For more In a letter to The Guardian the group, information: www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge which includes author Philip Pullman, In this issue we learn how our local schools are making A new species to arrive at Cotswold Wildlife Park is the mysterious Binturong, psychotherapist Susie Orbach, childcare outdoor learning a key part of education. We also present a few from the forests of South East Asia, where it spends most of its time in the expert Penelope Leach and the former ideas on how you can make the most of the outside with your trees. Otherwise known as the “Bear-Cat”, the Binturong is a strange creature in archbishop of Canterbury Rowan little ones too. So, go on! Get out there and enjoy the great its habits and appearance. Despite its bulk and relatively slow nature, it is Williams, said it also wants to see the outdoors. surprisingly agile in the trees and uses its prehensile tail for balance as it moves creation of a minister for children. This around looking for its favourite fruits. Should you ever be close enough, you will cabinet-level role would assess the Diane Clifford. Editor detect a faint aroma of popcorn emanating from the “Bear-Cat” as he moves impact of all government policies on 01684 770566 about his exhibit near our Reptile House, from a scent gland at the base of his children’s health and wellbeing. [email protected] tail. For more information: www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk The letter also called for a kindergarten- Next issue May/June 2017 style education for 3 to 7-year olds, Booking Deadline 3 April It is Mother’s Day on Sunday 26 March, so put your thinking cap on and come up with which would emphasise emotional and A 10 day Aviation Scholarship promising older kids the something special. Check out the many attractions across Gloucestershire that are social development and encourage running special Mother’s Day events. At many of them mums go free! www.familiesonline.co.uk chance to log up to 10 hours flying time is being offered by outdoor play. Cotswold Airport. The Cotswold Airport Aviation Scholarship In this issue is open to students from Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire; applicants must be 14 to 18 Parents Believe Mandarin Is 2 News & Views 10 Clubs And Classes years of age on 19 March 2017. The scholarship is funded Most Useful Non-Europoean 4 Education 12 Easter by Gulf Aviation. Apply online at www.cotswoldairport.com 6 Ed’s Reading Room 14 What’s On Language For Kids To Learn UK parents see Mandarin Chinese as the most important non- Follow us on Twitter Like us on Facebook Playing Outside Could Reduce @FamiliesGlos FamiliesGlos European language for their children to learn. The Risk Of Short-Sighteness Would you like to advertise your French, Spanish and German were still the top languages of Spending time outdoors as a teenager could reduce the chances choice but a majority of parents saw value in learning Mandarin. business to over 38,000 parents in our of becoming short-sighted as an adult, according to a new study. More than half (56%) of those questioned in a Populus survey commissioned by the Mandarin Excellence Programme (MEP) May/June Spring Half-Term issue The study, by researchers from the London School of Hygiene felt that the language would open their children’s minds to an & Tropical Medicine and Kings College London, looked at more “exciting and dynamic” culture. 51% also thought that learning of Families Gloucestershire? than 3,000 people aged 65-plus. The researchers took blood Mandarin would boost their kids’ future career prospects. samples, conducted eye examinations and interviewed Book Today participants to gauge their levels of exposure to sunlight since Mark Herbert, of the British Council, which is backing the MEP 01684 770566 early adolescence. along with the UCL Institute Of Education, said: “With the global economy becoming more interconnected and the drive [email protected] The results found that those with the highest exposure to to boost exports, language skills are increasingly vital for work sunlight in their teenage and young adult years were up to 30% and life. Circulation: 19,000 copies of Families Gloucestershire are available through nurseries, pre-schools, less likely to become myopic or short-sighted. schools, libraries, soft play centres, selected shops and other distribution points throughout the “Mandarin Chinese is one of the languages that matter most to county. If you would like free copies for your organisation or if you would like to subscribe so you don’t miss an issue please contact us. Families Gloucestershire is part of Families Magazines Ltd a The paper’s senior author, Professor Astrid Fletcher, said: “We the UK’s future prosperity. If the UK is to remain competitive franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated know spending time outdoors can protect against myopia but on the world stage, we need far more of our young people under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Gloucestershire are fully the reasons why are less clear. Our study showed that exposure leaving school with a good grasp of Mandarin in order to protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any to sunlight is likely to be the major factor due to stimulation of successfully work abroad or for businesses here in the UK. form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the physiological factors associated with eye growth, rather than Learning Mandarin is also a fascinating process that brings a accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.’ Print: The Manson Group, Reynolds House, through its action on vitamin D production.” valuable understanding of Chinese culture,” he added. 8 Porters Wood, Valley Road Industrial Estate, St Albans. AL3 6PZ. Tel: 01727 848 440.

2 Families Gloucestershire To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] March-April 2017 March-April 2017 To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] 3 Education Education

Independent School Open Days Berkhampstead School, , Chelteham St Edward’s School, Cheltenham. Co-ed ages 3 – 11 Board and day co-ed ages 2 years 9 Co-ed 2 – 11 years The Magic Of Outdoor Learning Saturday 11 March months to 18 years Friday 28 April If you go down to the woods today – what surprises will you safe environment of Forest School, means they are able to learn Contact 01242 523263 Saturday 4 March Contact 01242 538900 find? On a visit to Dean Close Pre-Prep School, you will find how to naturally judge a risk for themselves, (albeit a low risk www.berkhampsteadschool.co.uk Contact 01242 258079 www.stedwards.co.uk not bears but excited children enjoying the wonderful that has been assessed by teachers) such as exploring and outdoors and making all sorts of exciting discoveries, says Dr climbing over logs and uneven areas, avoiding brambles and Bredon School, Cheltenham www.deanclose.org.uk Westonbirt Prep School, Tetbury Carolyn Shelley, Headmistress of Dean Close Pre-Prep School. Board and day co-ed ages 3 – 18 King’s School, Gloucester Co-ed Preparatory Day School & Wednesday 15 March Co-ed day school ages 3 – 18 years Nursery ages 3 – 11 years Contact 01684 293156 Saturday 11 March Saturday 18 March 9.00am-12.00noon Schools all over the country are realising the value of taking www.bredonschool.org www.thekingsschool.co.uk Contact 01666 880333 or email learning outside, enabling children to connect with nature and www.westonbirtschools.co.uk providing an important and different type of experience in their Prep School , Cirencester educational journey. Here at Dean Close Pre-Prep we are Board and day co-ed ages 3 – 13 years Board and day co-ed ages 3 – 18 years , Stonehouse Wycliffe fortunate to have our own ‘Forest School’ which provides Saturday 4 March Friday 3 March – Juniors Board and day co-ed ages 2 – 18 years children with access to a wide range of planned and child- Contact 01242 522 697 Saturday 4 March – Seniors Saturday 4 March initiated activities; children are able to collaborate on ‘projects’ www.cheltenhamcollege.org Contact 01285 832306 or email Contact 01453 820412 or email such as making animal houses, being creative with the natural www.rendcombcollege.org.uk www.wycliffe.co.uk objects they find or painting with mud.

There has been much research to show that Forest School is of great benefit to children’s all-round development. Activities Time To Support Your such as den building, creating trails, identification of minibeasts, nettles or using logs and sticks safely to make a shelter. They plants and trees encourage critical thinking skills, independence, learn how to make their own sensible and informed decisions – Child For 11 Plus And self-confidence and teamwork in addition to their growth in an important life lesson for the future. knowledge, joy and wonder in the natural environment. Children flourish as they are able to build on their enjoyment of As spring is just around the corner, bringing with it the Entrance Exams DCPPSeach 130 xsession 180mm and Advert_Layout apply these 1 skills 06/02/2017 across the11:13 curriculum. Page 1 excitement of new growth and new discovery, let’s get our Is your child in or approaching Year 5? Do they have the wellies on and take the children out and about to explore the ambition of going to grammar or independent school? If so, we Research has also shown that, in our ‘risk-averse’ society, great outdoors. A magical world is waiting.

AWARD-WINNING could be the best possible support for them in the build up to enabling children to assess risk for themselves in the ‘wild’ yet www.deanclose.org.uk their exam.

With 15 years of experience, we have developed a unique programme for 11+ and entrance exam tuition, enabling us to tailor our support to the specific exams of local schools. We welcome all children on board without a pre-test; we simply Looking tostartschool? want them to feel inspired to learn more through this challenging and rewarding course! Open Days 9.00 -11.00 am Saturday 4th March 2017 Our members regularly attend two types of 9.30 -11.30 am Saturday 6th May 2017 session: one group Call 030 3003 4006 to session designed to book your free trial. support their exam explorelearning.co.uk technique, speed, accuracy, and exciting, new skills such as Small Class Sizes HAVE YOU BEEN non-verbal and verbal reasoning; and Vibrant Curriculum another individualised session, mapped to their ability, to help Inspiring Teachers FEARLESS strengthen the core foundations of maths and English. All of this TODAY? takes place with the support of our expert tutors in centres High Standards that are bursting with positive energy so that each child feels Lansdown Road, Cheltenham, Happy and Caring Community Gloucestershire, GL51 6QS /explorelearning confident and excited for their next step. Excellent Facilities Telephone: 01242 258079 @exploretutors Spaces for the course get snapped up rather quickly so for email: [email protected] www.deanclose.org.uk more information about our 11+ and entrance exam courses,

EducationInvestor Awards 2016 and to book a free trial for your child at one of our centres, head to our website: Fun Days | FOREST SCHOOL | STRINGS ‘ORCHESTRA’ | on-site TENNIS & SWIMMING LESSONS www.explorelearning.co.uk/11-plus-exams

4 Families Gloucestershire To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] March-April 2017 March-April 2017 To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] 5 Education Education Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and Creating A Seamless Transition here is my Spring book selection for you to enjoy. Have fun On April 18th anxious parents across England will be checking maintained and that our children continue to make excellent reading! www.EdontheWeb.com their emails to discover which Primary school their child has progress. Our Pre-School classrooms are based next door to been given a place at. After this comes the ‘transition’ period, the Reception children and they regularly participate in FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS that time between leaving Pre-School and starting Reception. activities together including story times, play times, drama productions and a family picnic. Shifty McGifty and Slippery Sam: For 4-year-olds the thought of school can be a daunting one but The Spooky School by Tracey a few helpful ideas can make it a smooth and pain-free process GloucestershireBuckinghamshire Corderoy (Nosy Crow £5.99) – for both child and parent! CEM 11+ EXAM ED SAYS: ‘Shifty and Sam aren’t just skilful 1. Visit the school together on several occasions. Take them bakers – they have a knack of solving GROUP TUITION along to the Sports Day, the drama production, and other fun mysteries too. Preparations are being made events held at the school and get them to meet with their • Year 5 and Year 4 - small group courses for a midnight feast at St Spectre’s School but Shifty and Sam (supportedMock Exams by 1 to 1 tuition) teacher. Show them the classroom they will be in and give them must track down one very cheeky ghost. Next they have to find • Groups run by professional tutor and published author, a tour of the department. Philip McMahon out what is going on with some extremely wacky weather. Then 2. Make a photobook ‘All About Me’ to share with the class • Our own high quality resources for tuition and homework when they take the Bakemobile to the museum’s courtyard, • SundaySaturday courses and Tuesday available Courses when they start, with photographs of family, friends, pets, etc • Proven results they don’t just have to sell their treats, they must also work out what the raccoons have in their brown sacks.’ 3. Read books to your child over the summer holidays on CEM STYLE TEST PAPERS FOR BUCKS 11+ EXAM ‘Starting School’. Who Stole the Hamster? by N Griffin 4. Be independent. Get them to put on their shoes, get dressed Order our new test papers in conjunction with Letts (Walker £6.99) ED SAYS: ‘When the class in and undressed (which will help for PE lessons), wash their hands Letts, the expert in revision and 11+ Tutoring Academy, have teamed up to provide pupils with resources for CEM Room 11 discover their hamster has gone etc. • Completely new and up to date content missing, chaos ensues. Did Patches escape or 5. Ensure that their Pre-School teacher or ‘Key Person’ makes • CEM style in their format and question types was he stolen? It is time for Smashie and her contact with their new school to share information. • Designed for practice at home best friend Dontel to get their sleuthing hats Get a smooth transition and you will have a happy and excited Order our new test papers at collins.co.uk/letts11plus on. However they realise that more than At St Edward’s Prep School, we take huge steps to ensure that child on the first day of the Autumn Term. PRIVATE TUTORING COMPANY OF THE YEAR 2015 - FINALIST one crime has been committed. When Smashie our Pre-Schoolers have regular contact with the staff and Miss Sadie Johns, Registrar and Dontel start their detective work will they be able to www.11plustutoringacademy.co.uk current Reception children, so that starting school is not a Mrs Kate France, Reception Teacher & Head of Pre-Prep 01242 221271 Twitter @11plustutoring sort out the chaos?’ scary one. We ensure that the quality and pace of learning is www.stedwards.co.uk FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS Book Now For Prom King: The Fincredible Diary of Fin Spencer by Ciaran Murtagh (Piccadilly Press £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘When Blake September Places Romney arrives from America and joins Parents wishing to help their children prepare for Fin’s class, Fin thinks everything about Blake Gloucestershire’s 11+ examination are advised to register is really cool. This is high praise from Fin early for group courses for Year 5 students beginning in who up to now thinks of himself as the best-looking and September 2017. most charming kid in the school. When Blake suggests an end of year Prom, Fin goes into overdrive. He absolutely must be the Learn & Explore Courses are held in Charlton Prom King and find a way of making Claudia his Prom Queen. Kings, Cheltenham. They are But will he be able to make this happen? Even with the help of his magic diary.’ run by a published author of Open Day very popular 11 Plus books The Song From Somewhere Else who has many years by A F Harrold (Bloomsbury £12.99) experience of preparing Friday 28th April ED SAYS: ‘Frank isn’t sure how to react when hundreds of children for the Nick Underbridge, the least popular boy at Prep and Senior School 11 Plus. school, helps her get away from some boys who have been bullying her. What would her Free trials are available any friends say if they knew she had been to 9:30am - 3pm week. There is an option to Nick’s house? And will he take it that she is switch course day if you are unable to attend a particular day. now his friend? But there is something appealing about Nick’s house and particularly the music she hears there. Sometimes ISA National The courses have an excellent record supported by friendship can be found when it is least expected.’ testimonials and teach over 100 children weekly. The courses Award Winners include periodic progress tests, the opportunity to do mock Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award- exams and also provide guidance and feedback to parents. winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of In the Early Years Category more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating. You can contact Please contact Philip email: Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at [email protected]. www.stedwards.co.uk [email protected] or call 07734469495 See Maggie’s latest ebooks at www.WalkWalk.co.uk.

6 Families Gloucestershire To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] March-April 2017 March-April 2017 To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] 7 Education Education Times Tables Made Easy Hands up who got their iPhone out the last time they had to Start with the twos add anything up? You’re not the only one. Relying on a Adding two to a previous number is something most children calculator is easy and convenient but getting to grips with will find achievable in primary school and this sets up a pattern maths and, in particular, times tables, is vital for children if for learning about the other times tables. The 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 they are to succeed at school. pattern has an easy rhythm to help children remember it.

Helping your little ones at home and doing some extra work to Apply it to real life ensure they feel confident in their learning can almost be as If times tables is something your children can apply to daily life, important as what they do in the classroom. It can, however, be they will show much more of an interest. Instead of testing Allocation Day, Appeals Day And Alternatives Day tricky when you are not actually a teacher. what they know, be playful about it when you’re at the Are you a parent of rising 5-year-old painstakingly counting So what happens if you don’t get the school you hoped for? supermarket and they’re helping you with down the days to April 18th when you find out where your There’s the appeals process which does risk further the shopping (it can happen sometimes!). If son or daughter will be attending their first day of school? disappointment but is worth a shot, and there is also the option you’re buying loose fruit and veg, ask them of a private pre-prep. if they know what the price would be if Donned with new school uniform (including the obligatory you bought three instead of two. oversized jumper that they are certain to grow into) and Where class sizes in the State system are up to 30 per teacher, excitement for meeting new playmates at ‘big school,’ you will Rendcomb College Junior School has no more than 16 children Find out what works best watch on wondering where the time went. It is a milestone per class giving each child so much more individual attention, an Like anything with children, once you shared by both you and your child and you want to do essential aspect of any child’s development. With acres of discover what works best for them – stick everything to ensure it is the best possible start to school. unspoilt countryside and an award-winning Forest School on to it. If your child learns best using visual site, utilising our outdoor ‘classroom’ is part of everyday life. aids then go down that route. If, on the The admissions process is refreshingly straight forward, stress other hand, listening and chanting helps 60 Seconds With A KSOL Tutor free and personalised with no waiting lists or appeals. them learn, then explore the different What is the 11 plus? types of apps available on the iPad or The 11 plus is a highly competitive set of entrance exams Book a personal visit or come along to one of our free open computer and try downloading some of taken by children at the age of 11 when applying to grammar events to experience what Rendcomb College Reception could them. It may be a good idea to keep these or independent school. offer your child. www.rendcombcollege.org.uk activities supervised so that if your child does make a mistake and comes up with a What’s in the 11 plus exam? wrong answer, you are on hand to explain. Gloucestershire CEM 11 plus exams are multiple choice FREE EVENTS at Rendcomb question papers with timed sections in verbal ability College Junior School and Nursery Pick out the patterns (including comprehension & vocabulary), numerical ability Come on, admit it; everyone has a and non verbal ability (NVR). favourite times table. It’s probably your It’s favourite because you find it the easiest to How can parents prepare children for the 11 Springtime! remember or you like the pattern. Picking plus? KSOL provide online 11 plus courses and run CEM 10am to 12 noon up on things like this will make it easier 11 plus mock exams throughout the year to help benchmark For preschool The thing that can really turn children off learning their times for your little ones to learn. The 9 times table has one of the ability and to familiarise children with: children aged 2+ tables is the practise it will take. Mixing up the way they spend easiest patterns to remember because, whilst the tens go up - the format of the exam paper Friday their time practising is important for sparking their interest and each time, the other number just goes down; 9, 18, 27, 36, 45, - the style of questions and content 24 March holding their attention. Here are some top tips to help you. 54, 63, 72, 81 and 90. - the live exam environment

What should they know? Do not bring your own feelings into it Why should children sit 11 plus mock exams? BOOK NOW! 01285 832306 How and what children learn in primary school sets them up Teaching methods have changed a lot since us parents were We don’t want children to become stressed by the www.rendcombcollege.org.uk for success in secondary school. If the foundations are in place learning our times tables. Your children are probably learning in atmosphere in the real exam so it’s important for them to for them to be able to work out an equation like 3x6=18 a different way now so chances are that you may have to brush experience the setting in order to build confidence. without using a calculator, then they will find it easier when it up on your arithmetic too. Ordering yourself something like Pirate comes to tackling harder arithmetic. The education curriculum Maths for Mums and Dads could help. Discovering new ways of Sitting mock exams also enables parents to benchmark their changes, but at the moment, children are required to know learning can make it fun for both of you. child’s ability and work on any weak areas. Whether this is a Adventure & Open Morning 12x12 by the age of nine. particular 11 plus topic, exam technique or poor time management, identifying and tackling these areas will boost a 10am to 12 noon Build their confidence Ages 2 to 11 There is more to maths than arithmetic and it is important that child’s performance on the day. How can you help them know it? Friday 12 May Buy posters of times tables or make your own; you can then your little ones do not lose interest in maths as a subject stick them up throughout the house. On the wall opposite the because it feels too difficult or seems too time consuming. KSOL are award-winning 11 plus specialists with over 10 years of loo, or under a magnet on the fridge, so that they are taking it Break down learning into bite-size chunks and make it as playful experience. Upcoming mock exam dates include 14th May and in without even realising it. You can even tape it to the ceiling as possible. Encourage your children and praise them for trying 16th July at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire. Call the team on We’re just 15 minutes south of above their bed so that they have something to talk about with when they do. Show them how far they have come since last 0121 733 6558 or visit www.ksol.co.uk to book mock exams and Cheltenham. Events held in our you when you are snuggling down, instead of a bed-time story. week or last month and this should spur them on. discover KSOL 11 plus online tuition for children in Year 4 and 5. award-winning Forest School!

8 Families Gloucestershire To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] March-April 2017 March-April 2017 To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] 9 Clubs and Classes Clubs and Classes

top reasons to consider a summer camp, and companies like PGL, like to combine activities for their teens and tweens. British Creativity and adventure can go hand-in-hand on their seven day courses with mornings spent fencing and evenings doing photography.

Summer Cost is obviously a consideration for most families, especially when they have more than one child to pay for. Many companies offer Childcare Vouchers and in addition, they give discounts for Camps multiple or early bookings. Some even offer scholarships or reduced rates for special circumstances.

The benefit of going off to camp for the average child is the For Kids phenomenal boost to their self-esteem and independence. It can A long-established tradition in the USA, be a little daunting for parents to let them go off on their own, summer camps are now readily available knowing they will not be there to soothe and reassure should across the UK for all ages. British parents have anything go wrong. found that packing their youngsters off for a few days or weeks of stimulation and However, this is just the character-building part of the entertainment is the perfect answer to the experience which allows children to flourish and find their own annual conundrum: “what will the kids do with confidence. Most camps will team younger children with an their long summer break?” For working older “mentor” who will keep a special eye on them, and Plenty Of Easter Fun parents, the concept is a godsend. The great provide that all-important cuddle if necessary. Tempting though news is that the children love it too. it may be to call and check on them all the time, it really is Holiday times can be tricky for working parents and Kate better to restrict contact, and encourage your child to have a Hall who owns Camp 4-2-11 understands this better than Although sport and adventure are heavily positive attitude to being away. most — she is a mum of six who runs two businesses! Kate’s featured, not all camps cater to active mini- Easter holiday camp (now taking children aged from three athletes. For the less boisterous, there are art If considering a summer camp, involve your child in the years to 14 years) is being run from St Edward’s Senior and academic options, technology and selection process, so that they know what to expect, and have School, Cheltenham, from April 10-13 . performing arts. If your child loves dancing, input into the choice. You can tailor this process to support motorbiking, film-making or computing, there is your child’s personality, for example, a shy child may be happier Camp 4-2-11 has a great reputation for offering arts, crafts, bound to be a camp to suit and build their skills, in a smaller group, such as those of no more than 12, at Mill on drama, singing and dance and even baking in addition to and they vary in length from one-off days to the Brue in Somerset. sports such as archery, tennis and swimming. Kate says: “It’s several residential weeks. really important to me that parents go to work knowing Ultimately, with the right preparation, a summer camp is the their kids are safe, having fun and enjoying their time at camp. Finding one that suits you ideal way for your child to spend their time during that long We understand it is their holiday time so we offer flexibility A good place to research all the activities on summer holiday. Spend some time selecting, look at each camp’s and choice.” offer, from archery to zorbing, is the British suitability, and be excited for your child for one of the most life- Activities Providers Association, which lists and gives Beaumont is the leader in this field with over 40 choices and enriching experiences out there. The camp accepts childcare vouchers, is Ofsted registered accreditation to over 100 summer camps in the UK and Europe. they run all through the summer from 8.30am to 5.30pm. At and works to strict staff/child ratios. Two well-known British providers are Outward Bound and the The Academies, day camps for 3-17 year olds, offer such clubs For more information about clubs and classes visit: Contact 07825 630751 or visit www.camp4211.co.uk Youth Hostel Association. as “Mad Scientists” or “Groovy Gardeners” and teens can brush www.familiesonline.co.uk up their UCAS applications or learn to coach the young ones, The Outward Bound Trust caters to 11-19 year olds in which is great for CVs. Would-be rock stars can sign on to residential camps, and the YHA holds themed camps for 10-19 KZR!Music, where a 2-day music course costs £120. 15 Years of Music Making years with accommodation in their own hostels. Younger Monkey Music Cheltenham and Gloucester will be celebrating children are accepted by xkeys.co.uk from 6 years, and at ATE Another day camp operator is Fire Tech. They are based its 15th birthday this year. Your local award-winning pre-school from 8 years. Fun might include scuba diving, football or quad throughout England for 9-14 year olds and cover such subjects music group was born in 2002, run by mum-of-three Sian biking. as video game development and mobile app design. We may Ferris. Sian was the very first franchise to start Monkey Music think of camps as featured in American movies with lots of outside of London, where it has been so successful. The so-called “Bear Grylls effect” has led to a lot of kids (and strenuous sports, s’mores by the fire, and friendly competition, their parents) enjoying the idea of learning survival skills and but these days the cerebral is celebrated, just as much as the She says: “I went to Monkey Music in London and loved how Ar ng s a e r i  u ir coping with the great outdoors. Over-10s can bivouac under physical. wonderful and inspirational the classes were. Having been an CHELTENHAM & GLOUCESTER T: 07768 457403 the stars in the Lake District, and coasteering, bush tracking, amateur singer from an early age, music has always been E: [email protected] den-building and bonfires are all popular. If your 9 - 15 year old Learning a new language is a popular camp choice, and some deeply important to me. I’m supported by a wonderful group is an adrenalin junkie, they will relish the cliff jumping and sea parents elect to fly their children overseas to brush up on their of teachers, equally passionate about the benefits of music.” swimming at the Isle of Man Venture Centre. French, German or Spanish. It’s even possible to go to Shanghai Saturday classes now open! or Beijing and learn Mandarin. Monkey Music is all about introducing music to very young Day camps are great too children. Catchy songs are mixed with a multitude of Classes open to babies from three months to children of Not all kids are comfortable with the prospect of being away Of course, hanging from zip wires, pushing the boundaries of instruments and visual props, something for all musical four years in Cheltenham and Gloucester. Book your FREE from home and this is where day camps are ideal. Camp courage and competence and trying new things will always be maestros to get to grips with. TRIAL. Call 07768 457403 or visit www.monkeymusic.co.uk

10 Families Gloucestershire To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] March-April 2017 March-April 2017 To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] 11 Easter Easter

NEW Little Chick Kids’ Cooking Classes and Cookies Children loveParties! to cook! Join us

Childrenwith your love pre-schooler to cook! Join for us fun with yourbaking pre -classesschooler and for funcrafts baking on classesMondays, and crafts Thursdays on Mondays or or Fridays. SuitableFridays. for ages 3 - 5. Suitable for ages 3 - 5. Call Fiona: 07475883019 or visit www.cookerydoodledoo.com

Call 01684 770566 if you are interested in advertising in the May/June issue of Families Gloucestershire Who can resist a cute Easter Chick? These tropical lime and coconut-covered biscuits look gorgeous and make a welcome break from all the chocolate eggs. them to search around for the most beautiful bits and bobs that they can find, whether these are flowers, feathers, or even Ingredients pretty rocks. Once you’re at home, let them showcase their 63g Butter 20g Coconut findings, and spend some time teaching them about the things 28g Sugar Yellow Food Colouring The Great Outdoors they’ve discovered, such as which birds their feathers came 90g Plain Flour 50g Icing Sugar Six super tips to get your child to go outdoors this spring tablets and smartphones behind. Fill their days with hiking, from. Then, get out the glue and the glitter and get to work. ½ Lime campfires, and outdoor games and they’ll barely even notice the Their imaginations should soon be working overtime. Spring is a beautiful time of year. The air is heavy with the scent absence of 24/7 technology. How do I make that? of flowering currents and daffodils and snowdrops sway gently 5. Take them pony trekking 1. Pre-heat the oven to 190 degrees celcius back and forth on every verge. The sky provides a crisp blue 2. Do some wildlife watching Horse riding can be an expensive hobby, but as a one-off treat, background and the fields are green with new growth. According to research by the Kaiser Family Foundation, children it’s a really pleasant experience for children. Helping to hone 2. Mix the butter and sugar together in a bowl until smooth spend more than seven hours a day on electronic media. Luckily, their hand-eye co-ordination, it's almost like enjoying a Great It is the perfect time for children! With lambs frolicking in the the best antidote for gamer’s eye and texter’s thumb is a simple British safari. Most centres will take you out into the wilderness, 3. Fold in the flour fields and insects buzzing in the air, there is so much to see and one: a different kind of mental and visual stimulation in the form with beautiful sights to be seen and enjoyed. Depending on do and it’s important to get them outside to experience it, for of wildlife watching. Helping children to better appreciate the where you trek, you could cross everything from woods to 4. Grate half the lime and add the zest to the mixture both their physical health and their psychological wellbeing. birds and beasts around them is a great way to engage their beaches to mountains, each of them offering a unique insight senses and educate them on the environment. If you want to into the wonders of the great outdoors. Your little ones will 5. Roll out the mix and cut into ‘chick’ shapes using a cookie Numerous studies have shown the benefits of fresh air and make the day extra exciting, turn it into a photo safari and have probably love it so much that they’ll be talking about it for cutter good, old-fashioned outdoor fun. Proven to increase children’s them snap pictures of any animals they spot. weeks to come, their minds filled with the fun and the activity levels, alertness and general health, it’s also a great way excitement that being outdoors can bring. 6. Place on a greased baking sheet and bake in the oven for to get their minds and their imaginations working. 3. Turn detective for the day 15 minutes – until golden around the edges Woodland walks are one way to get your children moving, but 6. Encourage them to cloud gaze The trick is not to make it feel forced, but rather fun. Although to make sure that they don’t get bored and try to avoid going As free as the air you breathe, cloud gazing has always been 7. While the biscuits are cooking, mix together the icing there may still be a bit of a nip in the air, here are six super tips out again in the future, turn the day into a game. Compile a list associated with daydreamers and there are worse things that sugar and lime juice in a bowl to get your little ones scrambling for the nearest door and their of things to find in the forest, from certain types of flowers to your child could be. Encouraging them to pick out shapes in the next adventure… feathers, leaves, and even animal droppings. Get them to tick sky will get their imaginations working overtime and is a truly 8. In a separate bowl mix the coconut with a little yellow these off their list as they locate them. The more they find, the fantastic catalyst for creativity. Afterwards, have them make food colouring until you reach the desired colour 1. Take them camping more points they get, with a small prize at the end for the stories from the images they imagined, or else paint their own Studies have shown that the average child spends far too much victor. Such games are guaranteed to not only be fun, but also cloudy pictures. As long as it gets them thinking, the day will 9. Once the biscuits are cooled, spread them with a layer of time indoors using electronics and less and less time outside. to get all of their senses switched on and their attention have been a superb success. icing and stick the yellow coconut mix to the top making This can constrain their natural creativity and gives them an focused on the task at hand. ‘fluffy’ feathers! inability to cope without constant stimulation. One great way to How will you get your little ones out of the house and into the turn this on its head is to grab a tent and take them camping. 4. Collect and craft wilder world this spring? To join Fiona at her Cookery Doodle Doo children’s classes Internet service should be naturally limited in more remote Another idea for woodland walks is to get your children to For more fun things to see and do in the great outdoors visit: please visit: locations, but if it’s not, encourage your kids to leave their collect items that they can later use to make crafts. Encourage www.familiesonline.co.uk www.cookerydoodledoo.com or phone 07475883019 for details.

12 Families Gloucestershire To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] March-April 2017 March-April 2017 To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] 13 Please check with the venue in case details have changed and also please Please mention you saw the event in Families Gloucestershire magazine What’s On note that with some venues, it is cheaper to pay in advance on-line. What’s On SCHOOL EVENT enjoyable day in the countryside with 16 April. Mad Hatters Tea Party Sundays. Families are invited to Various Concerts in March memorable experiences and great value. Our take part in fun and interactive and April. Grown-up, live, ST EDWARDS PREPARATORY SCHOOL A marquee festooned with fabulous Alice in friendly animals are waiting to greet you! Wonderland backdrops creates a magical art activities. FREE family drop-in classical concerts from KINDERGARTEN, London Road, but donations of £2 per child are professional musicians in a Visit the website and find us on Facebook, for atmosphere. Facepainting included. Booking Cheltenham GL52 6NR 01242 538900 gratefully received. 11am – 1pm. relaxed, baby-friendly more details. Schools and parties welcome. essential. www.stedwards.co.uk environment. Got a preschooler? Keep an eye out for our BABIES AND TODDLERS 24 March. St Edward’s Kindergarten PUZZLEWOOD Bouncing Bunnies toddler mornings. SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND Free Play & Stay Coffee Morning. All Perrygrove Road, Coleford, GL16 8QB AT-BRISTOL www.newbridgefarmpark.com 01594 833187 www.puzzlewood.net Anchor Road, Bristol, BS1 5DB CENTRE parents and toddlers are welcome to join Bowditch, Slimbridge, us for a morning of refreshments, EASTER EGG HUNTS 10 - 17 April. Easter Bunny Hunt. Search 0845 345 1235 the woods high and low, the Easter Bunnies www.at-bristol.org.uk Gloucestershire GL2 7BT socialising and fun activities. 9-10.30am BATSFORD ARBORETUM have dropped them everywhere! 31 March. Toddler Takeover: 01453 890 333 Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB 6 May. Nearly New Sale: St Edward’s Super Senses Explore a variety www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge 01386 701441 www.batsarb.co.uk SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND CENTRE Kindergarten of textures at a low level in the Slimbridge Cygnets – WWT 8 April – 23 April. The Big Batsford Bowditch, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire 26 May. St Edward’s Kindergarten texture garden, prick up your ears Toddler Group Second and Chicken Hunt. You’ve heard of an Easter Egg GL2 7BT 01453 890 333 Free Play & Stay Coffee Morning. All to some interesting noises in fourth Tuesday of each month Hunt – now find the chickens that laid them! www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge parents and toddlers are welcome to join Soundlab and join Ursa and Leo during term time. Arrive at 10.30 £2.50 per child. No booking necessary. 8 – 23 April. The Giant Duck Hunt! A to catch up with other parents us for a morning of refreshments, group of GIANT ducks will be landing at for The Magical Forest storytime. CHEDWORTH ROMAN VILLA before enjoying a wildlife themed socialising and fun activities. 9-10.30am. Slimbridge this Easter holidays, can your family THE GLOUCESTER GUILDHALL Yanworth, Cheltenham, GL54 3LJ activity at 11am. Each session will spot them all? Spot them all and receive a 23 Eastgate St, Gloucester GL1 01242 890256 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ include a wildlife themed activity. EASTER ON THE FARM yummy treat on your return. Easter arts and 1NS 01452 503050 www. chedworth-roman-villa crafts will also be available. gloucester.gov.uk/guildhall 14 – 17 April. Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt. Mondays. LaLa Lounge (for Cheltenham Art Gallery & Follow the trail and win a Cadbury chocolate DAYS OUT parents with under 5’s) Escape Museum, Clarence Street, prize £2/trail. 10am – 4pm. DYRHAM PARK the shopping frenzy for an hour Cheltenham GL50 3JT 01242 8 April – 23 April. Easter activities at Dyrham, near Bath, SN14 8ER (Sat Nav: SN14 or three. 10am – 1pm. Free entry. 237431 www.thewilson.org.uk the Villa. A fun children’s trail and discover 8HY) 0117 937 2501 www.nationaltrust.org. First Wednesday of every how the Romans celebrated spring. Every day uk/dyrham-park LILLIPUT CONCERTS month. Tots and Tales. Join in there will also be children’s craft activities. 26 March. Mother’s Day at Dyrham Park. St Andrew’s Church, Montpellier this fun session of storytelling and DEAN HERITAGE CENTRE Head over to the allotment at Old Lodge to Street, Cheltenham GL50 1SP arty activities for parents and Soudley, Cinderford, Gloucestershire plant a pretty polyanthus or primrose to take www.facebook.com/ carers with pre-school children. Newbridge Farm Park has lots to offer for GL14 2UB 01594 822 170 home to your mum. . LilliputConcerts 10.30am - 11.15am. Easter on the Farm! Children can complete a www.deanheritagecentre.com 11, 13, 18 & 20 April. Family Nature Trail free Easter treasure hunt, bottle feed a lamb, Various events over Easter Explore the park through exciting activities on and see lots of Spring baby animals! one of the popular guided discovery trails. Gloucestershire Slingmeets Centre, GL51 9JW 10.00am -11.30am GLOUCESTER BRANCH DYRHAM PARK Every Thursday at Hester’s Way Children Centre, Gloucester Breakfast Club: Every Wednesday. New for 2017, children will love our improved FREE with admission. Dyrham, near Bath, SN14 8ER (Sat Nav: SN14 GLOUCESTER AND CHELTENHAM SLING GL51 0ES 1.15pm -2.45pm 10:00am – 11:30am. Harvester Restaurant, softplay in our indoor playbarn, whilst adults 8HY) 0117 937 2501 NEWBRIDGE FARM PARK MEETS For times and venues please check www. Every Friday at Oakwood Children Centre, GL52 Salmons Leap, Quedgeley,Gloucester, GL2 4NF. can sit close by, enjoying something from our www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park Aylton, Ledbury, Herefordshire. HR8 2QG facebook.com/cheltenhamandgloucesterslinglibrary 5QH 10.00am - 11.30am. All groups are open to Open to all, members and non-members. STROUD SLING MEETS Parliament Street selection of hot and cold food and drinks. 14 -17 April. Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt 01531 670780 www.newbridgefarmpark.com babies 0-12 months and their parents/carers. Contact: [email protected] Children’s Centre, Old Bisley Rd, Stroud Visitors can also enjoy a free tractor ride, a Go and explore the parkland at Dyrham with Friendly animals, activities and play NCT Courses Relax, Stretch & Breathe Classes: Every Gloucestershire Breastfeeding Monday in term time. hands on pet session, animal feeding and an Easter hunt trail and claim your Cadbury areas. New indoor Playbarn Monday-Saturday CHELTENHAM & NORTH COTSWOLD BRANCH Supporters’ Network Support For more info visit www.nct.org.uk.uk/gloucester/ pony rides. Play facilities are suitable for all chocolate prize. £2.50 per trail. Normal 10am - 5pm (School Holidays) Wednesday- First Aid Spaces are limited so please email Louisa Groups All groups are free drop-in sessions. . at:[email protected] courses ages, including trampolines, zip wire, rope admission Saturday 10am - 4pm (Term Time) CLOSED You don’t need to have a breastfeeding problem. Gloucester Bumps and Babies SUNDAYS! Children 2-17 - £5. Adult - £6 Monday. 10.00 – 12.00 noon: MOBS in Dursley, STROUD BRANCH swing, hay bale tunnels, giant sandpits and NEWARK PARK Every Tuesday from 10.30am-12.00 noon at Parish Room, St James the Great Church GL11 4JE NCT Signature antenatal course more. Ozleworth, Wotton-under-Edge, GL12 7PZ Group Ticket (4 people) - £20. Pony Rides - £2 Salvation Army Hall, Eastgate Street, Gloucester, Tuesday. 10.00 – 12 noon: BAPS, For more details see www.nct.org.uk/courses or GL1 1QU. You don’t need to be a member to come Our family run business wants to give you an 01453 842644 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK Children’s Centre, Dill Avenue,Cheltenham GL51 0ES contact your local course organiser on 0208 752 along. Contact: [email protected] newark-park Bradwell Grove, Burford OX18 4JP Wednesday. 10.30 – 12.00 noon: BABES, Noah’s 2494 or [email protected] th 14 -17 April. Easter Egg Hunt Join the 01993 823 006 www. Ark Children’s Centre, York Road, Priors Park, NCT Early Days/Postnatal course For more Tots on the Move at Tinies Nursery at Gloucester Re-Opens 5 April hunt at Newark Park this Easter! Follow our cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk , GL20 5HU details see www.nct.org.uk/courses or contact your College on Llanthony Road, GL2 5JQ. Every fun Easter trail and earn yourself a tasty Daily Activities. Penguin feeding takes Thursday . 9.30am – 11.30am: CRIBS, Church local course organiser on 0208 752 2494 or Monday term time only 10.00am -11.30am no [email protected]. reward! place every day at 11.00am and 3.00pm in Hall, St John’s Church, Churchdown GL3 2DB need to be a member. Parking is limited. the Walled Garden. There are keepers on hand 10.00am – 11.30am: BEST, Springboard Children’s TETBURY BRANCH TETBURY BRANCH OVER FARM MARKET Centre, Trinity Road, Cirencester, GL7 1JU Signature antenatal course For more details see to answer questions. Bumps and Babes: Every Wednesday 10.30am – Over Farm Market, Gloucester GL2 8DB 01452 10.00am – noon: MOBS in Stroud, Parliament www.nct.org.uk/courses or contact bookings3d@nct. 12.00 noon at The Snooty Fox, Market Place,

FREE bag of animal bag of animal FREE The narrow-gauge railway runs during 521014 www.overfarmmarket.co.uk Street Children’s Centre, Bisley Old Road, Stroud org.uk uk Tetbury GL8 8DD food with this voucher! with food April to October (weather permitting) and GL5 1NL 12.30pm – 2.00pm: GLOBES, Gardners 14 -17 April. Easter trail – fun for all the NCT Drop Ins takes you all around the Park: All fares £1.00, Lane Children’s Centre, Cheltenham GL51 9JW. Full Nearly New Sales family. The trail will take you on a short walk CIRENCESTER BRANCH CHELTENHAM AND NORTH COTSWOLD under 3’s free of charge. information: www.gbsn.org.uk around the farm. Look out for their friendly Bumps, Babes & Toddlers: NEARLY NEW SALE - CLOTHES All Saints ‘Easter at the Farm’ animals and don’t forget your wellies. The trail MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES Cheltenham Children’s Centre Every Wednesday 10.00am - 11.30am at Academy, Blaisdon Way Cheltenham GL51 0WH.

Lamb Bottle Feeding & Treasure Hunt. begins at the farm shop and there will be a Baby Groups Cirencester Baptist Church, Coxwell Street Saturday 1 April THE WILSON Every Monday at St. Margaret’s Hall, GL51 3NU Contact: [email protected] NEW Soft Play, Pony Rides, Tractor Rides, face painter too. 10:30am – 12 midday Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum, Clarence 10.00am-11.30am (0-18 months) BEST - Breastfeeding Giant Sandpit, Play Barn, Friendly Animals, STROUD NCT NEARLY NEW SALE and much more! PRINKNASH BIRD AND DEER PARK Every Tuesday at Children Centre, Support: Every Thursday, 10.00am – 11.30am at Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT Sports Centre, Paganhill, Stroud GL51 8HY 1.00pm-2.30pm (mums to be and pre- Springboard Children’s Centre, Trinity Road, Prinknash Road, Matson, Gloucester GL4 8EU 01242 237431 www.thewilson.org.uk GL5 4AX. Sunday 19 March www.NewbridgeFarmPark.com walking babies) Cirencester, GL7 1JU. 01452 812 727 www.thebirdpark.com Last Sunday of every month. Arty 11:00am – 12:30pm Near Ledbury, HR8 2QG 01531 670780 Every Wednesday at Gardners Lane Children Contact: [email protected]

14 Families Gloucestershire To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] March-April 2017 March-April 2017 To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] 15 Don’t forget to say you saw the event in Families Gloucestershire Families Gloucestershire magazine THE UK’s NO.1 FOREST ADVENTURE at Forest of Dean, nr. Gloucester

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16 Families Gloucestershire To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: [email protected] March-April 2017