SUMMER 2014
FREE ● Holiday fun and ac t ivi t ies ● What ’s On guide
WIN
Theatre tickets
The essen t ial magazine for Chel t enham, Tewkesbury and Churchdown families
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KIDS DIRE!T
Splash out with summer courses
SUMMER
2014
BIG WAVES SWIM SCHOOL Dean Close School Pool, Cheltenham
Make 2014 go with a SPLASH and join MAKE your child safe in the water our ASA Swim School – learn to swim at Big Waves Swim SUMMER HOLIDAY CRASH COURSES School at Dean Close School pool AUGUST 4-8 and AUGUST 11-15 in Cheltenham. Big Waves and Aquasplash are ALSO ENROLLING NOW FOR SEPTEMBER family swim schools run by Marian Children’s classes Sundays 8.30-1pm Venn and her daughter Karen. Mon/Thurs 7-8pm. Parent/Toddler, Beginner, Improver groups, ASA Badge Scheme. ASASummer Holiday Crash Courses run qualified friendly teachers, small groups. Adult from August 4-8 and from August learn-to-swim and improvers Thurs 8pm 11-15. The cost is £35 per week for a half-hour daily lesson or £65 Tel: Marian/Karen 07887 422232 or 07810 296130 per week for a one-hour daily email bigwaveswim@yahoo.co.uk lesson. www.bigwaveswimschool.co.uk Marian is also enrolling now for September classes. Weekly sessions run for all ages and abilities. There are lessons for all the family, with parent and toddler, learn to swim, Improvers ASA Award scheme and Rookie Lifesaving. There are swim lessons for adults too, or you can just swim to keep fit. So don’t delay, enrol today. Call Marian on 07887 422232, Karen on 07810 296130, email bigwaveswim@yahoo.co.uk or visit www.bigwaveswimschool.co.uk
Ian Stuart designer wedding dress for sale
This stunning Stardust designer dress would make your big day perfect. Size 10, worn once, the dress is strapless with fitted bodice with pearls and Swarovski crystals. Dry-cleaned and in perfect condition.
Tel: 01452 855384 2
£700
(Cost £3,000 new)
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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SUMMER
2014
CoadyCrew 4 Tots, Kids, Teens & Adults
Cheltenham
BREAK DANCE
Taster sessions available each week for all classes. Ring the studio to book a session
LOCKING
BALLET HOUSE SINGING & DRAMA POPPING SQUAD CHILLED CONTEMPORARY
P HIP HO
STREET DANCE
BOYZ-ONLY CLASSES LEGS, BUMS & TUMS COADY DANCE WORKOUT
Please ring for more information.
01242 577706
Principal: Nikki Dawn Coady Teaching adults & children for over 24 years
436 High Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JA Email: coadydancestudios@hotmail.co.uk
CoadyCrew CoadyCrew offers Street/Hip Hop classes every night after school as well as the Chilled/Contemporary classes. The Break Dance, Ballet and Freestyle Battle classes are on Saturday mornings. coadytots, which is for pre-school kids, is still as popular as ever and runs in the afternoons. Coady Fitness is back, for kids and adults, fun circuits and Coady Dance Workout classes for the kids to keep them fit and active. For the teens and adults, there are more serious classes, such as Circuits, LBT (legs, bums and tums) and our fun dance workout (guaranteed fat burner) Coady Dance Workout. New to the Timetable: Ballet, Boyz-only Streetdance, Circuits, (Urban: House, Locking and Popping)
(Squad: Competition classes for kids who want to compete) and Freestyle Jam, which is a class that takes Street Dance back to the streets: confidence and imagination is required for this class. No routines! Please call the studio before coming along to any classes because places fill up quickly. For the new timetable and more information, please either email us or call 01242 577706. Nikki Coady – Principal
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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Dance-Tec Kids & Adults Funky Street Dance for more info contact Rachel 07778 599670
SUMMER
Dance, parties and so much more DANCE-TEC offers street dance, street poms, lyrical hip hop, fitness classes, dance parties, exams and so much more, all available at this fun, friendly dance school. We have danced in Paris, London and taken part in competitions and shows. All this is available to all dancers but not compulsory. Classes are in Cheltenham, Tewkesbury and Gloucester for ages three to 50. For more details, contact Rachel on 07778 599670 or email dance-tec@hotmail.co.uk. Visit our website at www.dance-tec.co.uk
Have fun while you improve your skills ENCOURAGING young children to communicate confidently in another language? Or looking for extra help for your child during the summer? Language Solutions’ team of native speaker tutors can help you. Available in July/August ■ Adult classes and private tuition ■ French parent and toddler group ■ Infant and junior holiday sessions ■ Revision sessions for KS3 and up After-school clubs will be back in September. Enrolments are open from now. Call Sylvie on 01242 513072 for any further information.
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2014
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For children (aged 2+) and adults Mini-groups or 1-1 tuition Family Groups Parent and Toddler Sessions Primary Clubs Holiday Workshops MFL Curriculum courses
Enrolments throughout the year
01242 513072
www.fun-languages.co.uk info@fun-languages.co.uk
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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SUMMER
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
2014
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2014
Bentham Holiday Playscheme
BENTHAM Country Club Children’s Playscheme is an established and experienced childcare setting and has been operating every school holiday for more than 20 years. The Playscheme is open for children who are in school year 1 up until they reach their 15th birthday and the themed “Play Days” provide activity-based fun that focuses on sport and physical play opportunities. It is registered with Ofsted and parents can be assured the setting meets the statutory requirements for providing childcare. The qualified and DBS-cleared Playwork team has a rich blend of experience and skills in order to facilitate children’s play. Playworkers understand the positive impact that play has on children’s wellbeing and development while securing their physical and emotional welfare. “Children enjoy their time at the club and have fun in the company of the staff and children of different ages… The outcomes for children are positive. This is a very sociable holiday club where all children feel welcome and relaxed.” (Ofsted) The venue has extensive facilities; two “sports domes”, a grassed area for outdoor pursuits, function room for music and games, reception rooms for arts and crafts and a lounge to rest and relax. Children’s packed lunches can be safely refrigerated or a two-course cooked lunch can be provided. “Caters very well for my active sociable son… Good at building rapport and provides a welcoming environment with good attention to detail in the management of the scheme.” (Parent feedback) Open Monday, July 21 to Tuesday, September 2, activities run from 9.30am to 4.15pm and, great for working parents is the free early drop-off (from 8.30am) and late collection (up to 5.45pm). The cost is £21.50 for a full day, with weekly and sibling discounts available. Half-day sessions can be booked and all major childcare voucher schemes are accepted. “Children behave well because they are interested and engaged fully throughout… The calm adults are positive role models for the children, so they respond well and are polite and use good manners as a matter of course.” (Ofsted) The Playworkers build positive relationships with the children in their care and encourage children to contribute actively to the running of the scheme. Children participating in the “golden rules”, helping with the tuck shop or being a “buddy” for a new attendee all helps towards the youngsters taking ownership of the Playscheme. Full details, including activities, registration and booking forms and important information for parents, can be found by visiting the Children’s Playscheme page of Bentham Country Club’s website www.benthamcc.com or by calling 01452 864157 where a member of staff will happily answer any questions. In addition to the Playscheme, Bentham Country Club also hosts children’s sports parties and is a great place to celebrate a birthday with friends. A supervised hour of chosen sports costs £55 for up to 16 children and a two-course meal follows at £3.50 per child. Sports available are football, uni-hockey, tag rugby, netball or fun fitness – a couple of sports with races and optional parachute games.
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To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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2014
Bentham Cou ntry Club Su mmer Playsc Parent Inform heme. ation – Wha t I Need To Know W elco ming, friendly, so ciable and inclusive
Q ualifie d and DBS-cl eare d Playworker s w ith a ri ch blend o skills and f experience
Theme d fu n Play-Days focusing o sport and n p hysical pl ay activitie indo ors an s d o ut
Ofs te d reg is tere d/reg ulate d ensu quality chil res dcare. App ro ve d for childcare working ta x cre d its Working-p arent frien dly. Free ea drop-off (8 rly .30am) an d late pick (5.45pm) -up
Activities run 9.30am to 4.15pm .
£21.50 per full day w ith sibling week ly d is and co unts. Ha lf- day sess and co oke ions d lunches available Open July 21 to Septem ber 2 and scho o l ho li ever y day thro ug ho ut the ye ar
Full details – www.benthamcc.com
01452 864157
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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2014
Monkey’s 21st birthday gift LITTLE monkeys are getting set to raise money for charity while celebrating a big birthday. Monkey Music is celebrating 21 years of award-winning classes introducing little ones to the wonderful world of music. Monkey’s 21st birthday will be marked with special party classes across Cheltenham and Gloucester in June, with fun, games and competitions to raise money for two charities: Nordoff Robbins, a specialist music charity delivering music therapy sessions in schools, hospitals and care homes; and Winston’s Wish, the charity for bereaved children. The aim is to raise a huge £21,000 nationally. Keep up with the birthday news on Facebook www.facebook.com/ monkeymusic Classes run at nine venues across Cheltenham and Gloucester – in Tewkesbury, Cheltenham, Up Hatherley, Bishop’s Cleeve, Charlton Kings, Leckhampton, Bourtonon-the-Water and Churchdown. For babies from three months to children of four years, the aim is simple – to educate and entertain through song, dance and play.
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Catchy songs are mixed with a multitude of instruments and visual props, something for all musical maestros to get to grips with. Teacher Sian Ferris said: “Our classes introduce music to very young children in a way they can easily understand and enjoy – over the past 21 years more than 150,000 little ones have joined the fun. “Our 21st Birthday celebrations and competitions will bring even more fun and, because we’re also using the events to help support the work of charities that are very close to our hearts, we hope they’ll create a lasting legacy for our celebration too.” To book your FREE TRIAL CLASS – call Sian on 07768 457403 or head to www.monkeymusic.co.uk for more.
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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SUMMER
2014
Cheltenham Tuition THE CHELTENHAM GRAMMAR SCHOOL CENTRE MOCK GRAMMAR SCHOOL EXAMINATIONS CEM (Durham University) style questions on Verbal Ability and Comprehension ● Numerical Ability ● Vocabulary ● Non-Verbal Ability ●
A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY Two papers, each administered in about an hour ● Short break in between ● Instructions delivered by audio soundtrack ● Multiple choice questions with separate answer sheet ● Each paper comprises individually-timed sections ●
This is an exciting chance to experience the entrance tests as closely as they can be to the real thing. It will go a long way in allaying nerves on September 13. No school or private tutor can replicate this
Key dates: Sunday, August 31 and Sunday, September 7 01242 222300 01452 613335
12, Imperial Square, Cheltenham
rogerh-cptc@live.co.uk To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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2014
Jo Jingles makes a song and dance
GRAHAM FEAKINS HND
Tree Surgeon ✓ Tree felling ✓ Reshaping ✓ Stump grinding ✓ Hedge trimming ✓ Fruit tree pruning ✓ Garden clearance
PROFESSIONAL QUALIFIED FULLY INSURED RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL FREE ADVICE
OVER 20 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE
FREE QUOTATIONS GIVEN
01242 680362 GREEN ORCHARD, DEERHURST WALTON, CHELTENHAM
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Jo Jingles is the leading music, singing and movement experience in the UK and I have had the pleasure of running Jo Jingles in Gloucestershire for more than 10 years. Jo Jingles classes are carefully structured through singing, dancing and instrument play and we explore pre-school education themes such as numbers, animals, nursery rhymes and colours. For example, if we were learning about The Farm, all our songs would be either animal or tractor-based including firm favourites like Dingle Dangle Scarecrow. Our classes are run in a friendly and informative manner where everybody is encouraged to join in and, most importantly, have fun. We run during the term time in Bishop's Cleeve, Cheltenham, Gloucester and Stroud and our age range is from three months to five years (three months to walking, walking to two years, two-three years and three to five years. In addition to the weekly classes I also run birthday parties. “Virginia is a total star with children. At my granddaughter's party she kept all the little ones utterly spellbound. The whole thing was a triumph!” (Jilly Cooper) I would like to invite you to join us for a free taster session at one of our weekly classes. Please email Virginia at jojingles22@aol.com to book your space and I hope to meet you soon. For more information visit www.jojingles.com/centralgloucesteshire or www.facebook.com/central gloucestershire FRONT COVER: items from Tesco Homes & Outdoor Living. www.tesco.com
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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Summer’s packed with fun at 4-2-11 AT Camp 4-2-11, we have fantastic activities planned for your little cherubs this summer at St Edward’s Junior School. Daily arts and crafts, forest school, Zumba, circus skills, archery, swimming, treasure hunts, drama and singing, bouncy castle, glitter tattoos and face painting. We also have the option of sports including tennis, five-a-side football and rounders. We are OFSTED registered and have highly qualified staff who are all CRB checked. We also accept childcare vouchers. We promise to give your children a safe, fun-filled day in our beautiful grounds. Check out the website for more information and a booking form. If you Like our Facebook page and book before June 30, you will receive 20 per cent off. Visit us at www.facebook.com/ camp4211
SUMMER
2014
Let Kids Direct help you ■ Advertise in Kids Direct and boost your business ■ We distribute 10,000 copies to families ■ Next issue
AUTUMN ■ To find out more, call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@bluedyonder.co.uk
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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Douglas deserves a big hug
W
IN a family ticket worth £32 (two adults and two children) to see the open-air family show Hugless Douglas on Sunday, July 20, at the Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Dean Close School, Cheltenham. Blunderbus Theatre Company presents this delightful new show with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and high energy storytelling, suitable for ages three to seven years old. Hugless Douglas is a huggable, lovable young brown bear who wakes up one morning in need of a hug. He tries to find the perfect one, but none of them seems quite right. After all, there are so many different hugs to choose from. Will Douglas find the perfect hug? “Storytelling for young hearts and minds!” The List Little cubs can expect to enjoy an
afternoon packed with laughter, sing-along songs and free face-painting. Families are also welcome to bring picnics to enjoy during the show, with refreshments also on sale in the cricket pavilion. Free parking is available. To be in with a chance of winning, all you have to do is answer this question: What did the Three Bears love to eat? a. Weetabix b. Porridge c. Coco-Pops Send your answer with your name and phone number to Hugless Douglas Competition, The Bacon Theatre, Dean Close School, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE, by July 5. The winner will be picked at random. Tickets are £10 (£8) and are available to book on 01242 258002 or visit www.bacontheatre.co.uk Performances at the Tuckwell Ampitheatre always go ahead. In the event of unsafe weather conditions the event will be transferred to the Bacon Theatre or Pre-Prep School Hall. In this instance tickets are transferable but not refundable. Any decision to move the event will be made on the day of the event itself and updated information will be available from the website.
Read all about it HEAD for your local library over the holidays and enrol in the free Summer Reading Challenge. This year’s theme, Mythical Maze, introduces children aged four to 11 to a fantastical world of legend and mythology. The aim is to encourage children to read six or more books of their choice from the library.
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To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
SUMMER
2014
Are you the next big star?
Enjoy the great outdoor theatre GET the picnics ready for another packed fortnight of great outdoor entertainment with the Open-Air Theatre Festival at the Tuckwell Amphitheatre. It runs from July 18 to August 1 at Dean Close School’s idyllic outdoor venue in Cheltenham. Live music, drama, film and family fun are on offer. Highlights include: mud, blood and stiff upper lips in the Pantaloons’ History of Britain and Rain or Shine’s gripping rendition of The Merchant of Venice. There is also Dickens’ classic tale of poverty and pick-pocketing in Jenny Wren’s Oliver, Heartbreak’s production of Pride & Prejudice and the Pantaloons’ voyage to an enchanted island of adventure, romance, magic and monsters in
The Tempest. The Cheltenham Every Voice Choir makes its debut for an uplifting evening of song. Audiences can also expect two helpings of the Cinema Under the Stars starting with Sunshine on Leith (15) which features the music of The Proclaimers and the classic 1980s Tom Cruise romance, Cocktail (15). Jess Waterman, from the festival team said, said: “Summer is our most treasured time of year because we get to open the gates to the Tuckwell Amphitheatre again for live theatre experiences like no other, including brilliant family entertainment and cinema in the most incredible surroundings.” For tickets, visit www.bacontheatre.co.uk or call 01242 258002.
A NEW website, Young Headliners, is creating a buzz as the must-go-to website for youngsters looking to become the stars of the future. It offers much-needed advice, training options, auditions and career guidance for young people who are looking at starting a career in the performing arts. Set up only a month ago by local girl Joanna Britland, it already boasts interviews and collaborations with industry experts, with much more in the pipeline. ‘The interest has been phenomenal,” said Joanna. “I ran a theatre school for four years and realised there wasn’t a one-stop website for young people that offered not only training options but had relevant advice and tips on how to start a career in the very competitive performing arts industry – that’s how Young Headliners was born.” Recent interviews include musician J Rock from Big Brovas, Gloucester-based StuntStage UK giving advice on how to become a stunt actor and West End star Tricia Adele-Turner who helps with how to get into musical theatre. With only one in eight people who audition for drama schools being offered a place, it’s important that young people get advice on different routes into their chosen career. Visit www.youngheadliners.com or follow them on Twitter: @YoungHeadliners
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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2014
Follow the yellow brick road FOLLOW the Yellow Brick Road to find what lies Over the Rainbow in Promenade Productions’ summer show. Cheltenham’s popular amateur dramatic society is celebrating its 30th anniversary year with the much-loved musical The Wizard of Oz. The production, from July 10-13, will be somewhat different from the 1939 Judy Garland film version. The story begins with a tornado that whisks Dorothy off to a magical land where she embarks on a journey following the yellow brick road to find a wizard that can help her get back home to Kansas and give her new friends – the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Lion what they most want. Toto and some other characters do not feature in this stage adaptation but there will be quite a few surprises.
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The production has a large cast, professional scenery and a full orchestra, once again under the baton of David Manifold. The production team is headed by husband-and-wife team John Pannett and Heather Newman. The Wizard of Oz is at The Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham from July 10-13, with evening performances at 7.30pm and a matinee at 2.30pm on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets, £8-£14, are on sale at Showcase, Montpellier, Cheltenham, or call 01242 224144. Book your seats now for a great end of term treat.
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
2014
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SUMMER
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To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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SUMMER
2014
Happy landings at The Aviator FAMILIES are welcome at all times at The Aviator. We know how important it is for families to go somewhere that is friendly and relaxed, so come and see us soon. The Aviator Cafe Pub Restaurant is on Gloucestershire Airport at Staverton and has superb views of the airfield. It has something for everyone, whether you are an aviation enthusiast, bringing your children to watch the planes, calling in for a coffee and a piece of homemade cake or having lunch or an evening meal. The spacious, enclosed beer garden is great for families and fantastic throughout the spring and summer. All our food is cooked on site using local suppliers, which allows us to be flexible with our menus. We have speciality fresh ground coffee,
tea and homemade cakes that are available all day. We serve breakfast every day from 9am-11.30am. Our main menu, which changes with the seasons, is served Monday-Saturday from 12noon-8.45pm, and from 12noon7.45pm on Sundays, when we serve traditional Sunday roasts. Our new summer menu is varied with, we hope, something for everyone from hot meals to sandwiches, paninis, baguettes, toasted sandwiches and jacket potatoes. We welcome children and have a selection of meals for them to choose from. ■ KIDS EAT FREE from July 22-August 31 inclusive. For every adult that purchases a main meal, a child will eat free from the children’s menu. Visit www.theaviatorglos.co.uk or call 01452 714442.
The Aviator Cafe Pub Restaurant Gloucestershire Airport, Staverton, Cheltenham, GL51 6SR
A Cafe Pub Restaurant located on Gloucestershire Airport which has superb views of the airfield. We have a spacious, enclosed beer garden, which is great for children and families, and fantastic to enjoy throughout the summer time
WHAT’S ON AT THE AVIATOR DURING THE SCHOOL SUMMER HOLIDAYS KIDS EAT FREE Tuesday, July 22-Sunday, August 31 inclusive. Every adult who purchases a main meal, a child will eat free from the children’s menu Free Wifi access, alcoholic and soft beverages, speciality fresh ground coffee, tea, homemade cakes. Breakfast from 9am. Main menu and lighter bites from noon. Children’s menu and specials board daily, Sunday roasts and Sunday menu
01452 714442
www.theaviatorglos.co.uk Email: info@theaviatorglos.co.uk
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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2014
Fun way of building confidence THE Happy Days Gym programme, which focuses on non-competitive gymnastics, is designed to build confidence and, above all else, be fun. It is based around the British Gymnastics Award and Reward Scheme. Children quickly develop better coordination, flexibility with strength and power. What’s more, it is proven that early training results in increased kinaesthetic awareness. Without even realising it, children will also rapidly gain self-esteem and confidence and it will boost their social interaction with peers. Classes are based around small age
ranges, with a high ratio of staff to children, especially in the younger years, so they will learn to listen and follow instructions as well as learning and developing the fundamentals of movement. “Gymnastics is one of the only sports that works total body strength/flexibility and aerobic development,” said Happy Days Gym founder Lisa Privett. “On top of that, gymnastics and movement are the foundation for any other sport in which your child participates.” For more details, contact 0794 705 4277 or visit www.happydaysgym.co.uk
■ We have a range of structured programmes for
children aged 20 months to 11+ years
■ All classes are interesting and fun and build self-
Due to demand, new classes starting in September Sign up during August and receive a free T-shirt with this advert Celebrating 21yrs 1993-2014
confidence with physical/gymnastics and movement skills ■ Learning through physical fitness promotes refinement of both gross and fine motor skills, strength, flexibility and endurance ■ Develops rhythm, spatial and body awareness ■ Safe, challenging and fun environment ■ All classes are taken by qualified gymnastics coaches who are all CRB checked ■ Classes held at Charlton Kings and Warden Hill For further information contact Lisa on 07947054277 or email happydaysgymclub@gmail.com
Web: www.happydaysgym.co.uk
FREE website listing . . . 18
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Next issue: AUTUMN TERM. Call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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SUMMER
2014
WIN and label it! Easy2name will solve all your labelling problems. With waterproof stickers for shoes, lunchboxes and equipment and a choice of clothing labels, including Stick-Easy clothing labels – the no-sew, no-iron option – lost property will be a thing of the past. The Off to School set is great value and includes stickers, iron-on labels, a shoe bag and bag tag. You can choose from red, blue or lilac sets. The labels can be used on everything from socks and shoes to stationery, sports kit and mobile phones. Easy2name gives 10 per cent discount to Kids Direct readers – simply enter the code KD2014 at the checkout. For a chance to win an Off to School set answer this question: What would you store in a shoe bag? a. DVDs b. Shoes c. Toys Email your answers along with your name and address to Kids Direct at joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk. Closing date: July 31.
SWIMMING Swim with StarFish LESSONS DO you want your child to learn to swim? Then why not join the StarFish Swim Club at the National Star College. Contact us to find out availability for learn to swim or higher ability classes for children wanting to improve their stroke. Classes take place on Wednesday evenings and Saturday or Sunday mornings. A course for adults wanting to learn to swim or improve their stroke takes place on Wednesday evenings. The water is lovely and warm and the teachers are prepared for those who may be nervous about learning to swim. Please give the StarFish administrator a call on 01242 527631 ext 3381 to find out more or email starfish@natstar.ac.uk As always at the National Star College, there’ll be “warm water and a warm welcome”.
“Warm water and a very warm welcome”
Small classes Qualified teachers ● Experienced lifeguards ● Learn to Swim ●
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Stroke improvement Family swim sessions for those with children with a disability
Classes for: Children aged 4+ – Weds eve/Sat and Sun mornings Adults – Getting Going / Improvers – Weds eve To find out more please contact: Starfish Administrator, StarFish National Star College Ullenwood Cheltenham GL53 9QU Tel: 01242 527631 ext 3381 starfish@natstar.ac.uk
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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Theatre and Music June-September 14. Giffords Circus. Various venues including Frampton-onSevern, Minchinhampton and Cirencester. Info: 01242 572573 or visit www.giffordscircus.com. July 6. The Roses Dance Showcase. Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury. 3pm. Celebration for The Roses’ 40th birthday by students of the Youth Theatre. Info: 01684 295074 or visit rosestheatre.org July 18 to August 1. Open-Air Theatre Festival. Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Dean Close School, Cheltenham. Info: 01242 258002 or www.bacontheatre.co.uk July 20. Hugless Douglas. Tuckwell Amphitheatre, Dean Close School, Cheltenham. Open-air show. Info: 01242 258002 or www.bacontheatre.co.uk July 24. Aladdin. Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury. Shadow puppet theatre. 2.30pm. Info: 01684 295074 or visit www.rosestheatre.org July 10-13. The Wizard of Oz. Bacon
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2014
Theatre, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham. Promenade Productions. 7.30pm (Sat and Sun matinee 2.30pm). Info: Tickets, £8-£14, from Showcase, Montpellier Cheltenham, or call 01242 224144. August 6. Marty MacDonald’s Farm. Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury. Puppet show. 2.30pm. Info: 01684 295074 or visit www.rosestheatre.org August 6. The Sorceror’s Apprentice. Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury. Puppets. 2.30pm. Info: 01684 295074 or visit www.rosestheatre.org August 21. Milkshake Live. Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury. Musical. 1pm and 3.30pm. Info: 01684 295074 or visit www.rosestheatre.org August 22. Treasure Island. Sandford Parks Lido, Cheltenham. New adaptation by Rain or Shine. 8.15pm. Info: 01242 572573. August 28. Peter and The Wolf. Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury. Puppets. 2.30pm. Info: 01684 295074.
Free trial session EXPLORE Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to five to 14-year-olds of all abilities, and also run special courses in 11+ exam preparation. The centres are open seven days a week, and are Ofsted registered, meaning families can use childcare vouchers to pay for membership. Also, because children attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis, Explore tuition can fit easily into busy family life. Children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme tailored to meet his or her needs, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum. Find out how your child can benefit from Explore Learning membership today. Call your local centre to book a free trial session or complete a free trial form at www.explorelearning.co.uk
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To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
KIDS DIRE!T… 3,%'4+ /$
Lucky Dip June 21-22. Day Out With Thomas. Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Toddington. Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends. Info: www.gwsr.com June 28. Family Fun Day. Patesians Sports & Social Club, Everest Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham. 3pm. June 29. Great British Tennis Weekend. Oxstalls Sports Park, Gloucester. Free tennis activities. Book in advance on www.greatbritishtennisweekend.com July-August. Tewkesbury Heritage & Visitor Centre. Workshops for children run on certain dates during the holidays. Info: 01684 855040 or visit www.outofthehat.org.uk July 5. Midsummer Fiesta. Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham. Music from local bands, funfair, children’s village and market place. Free admission July 5-6. The Cotswold Show. Cirencester Park, Cirencester. Showstopping performances in the main arena and a host of action-packed activities. Info: www.cotswoldshow.co.uk July 5. Summer Fayre. Woodchester Mansion, Woodchester Park, Nympsfield. Guided tours, stalls. Info: www.woodchestermansion.org.uk July 10-12. 2000 Trees Festival. Family festival with music, children’s activities. Info: www.twothousandtreesfestival.co.uk July 12. Pied Piper Junior Aquathlon. Sandford Parks Lido, Cheltenham. Fun sporting challege for ages 8-16. Info: www.sandfordparkslido.org.uk July 12-13. Tewkesbury Medieval Festival. Lower Lode Lane, Tewkesbury. The world-famous 1471 Battle of Tewkesbury is recreated with the help of hundreds of re-enactors. Info: www.tewkesburymedievalfestival.org July 11-13. Royal International Air Tattoo. RAF Fairford. Features first show appearance of Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II joint strike fighter. Tickets must be bought in advance. Info: www.airtattoo.com July 13. Art Couture Painswick Festival.
SUMMER
2014
Lots of craft stalls, food, drink and produce, music and dance. Info: www.acpfestival.co.uk July-August. Activity Days for Children. Nature in Art, Twigworth. Info: www.discoveryzone.org.uk August 1-3. Festival of British Eventing. Gatcombe Park, Stroud. Top class eventing, shopping village, arena attractions. Info: www.gatcombehorse.co.uk August 5-10. The NAF Five Star International Hartpury Horse Trials. One of the highlights of the equestrian calendar. Info: www.hartpury.ac.uk August 15-17. Day Out With Thomas. Dean Forest Railway, Norchard, near Lydney. Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends. Info: 01594 845840 or visit www.dfr.co.uk August 17. Tewkesbury Classic Vehicle Festival. Tewkesbury School Sports Field, Ashchurch Road, Tewkesbury. A great day out for all the family, BBQ, fairground rides, stalls. 10am-5pm. Info: www.tewkesburycvf.org July 23-August 31. Explore Westonbirt. There's something every day for families – from play trails to school holiday activities. Kids go free. Info: www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt August 25. Winchcombe Country Show. Traditional flower show, entertainment, crafts, stalls and more. Winchcombe Senior School Field, noon-5.30pm. Info: www.winchcombeshow.org.uk August 23. The Best of British Show. Cotswold Airport. Family event with three-hour air show, arena events. Tickets must be bought in advance. Info: www.bestofbritishshow.co.uk August 25. Bourton Football in the River. Take your places on the banks of the Windrush in Bourton-on-the-Water as the footie kicks off once again. Fete from 11am, with the football match at 4pm. September 6. Moreton-in-Marsh Agricultural and Horse Show. Traditional one day show with cattle, horse, ponies, sheep, dog shows, flowers, vegetables etc. Info: www.moretonshow.co.uk
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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KIDS DIRE!T… "#$ %$& %!'()('(*+
SUMMER
2014
Steam along to meet Thomas MAKE your day a Day Out With Thomas as Thomas the Tank Engine returns to the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway on June 21 and 22 and September 20 and 21 with his friends. You can not only ride with Thomas but also behind other steam and diesel engines, including Daisy, on the frequent trains between Cheltenham Racecourse, Winchcombe and Toddington. Gates open at 9am and trains will run every 45 minutes throughout the day with the first train at 9.30am from Toddington and 9.45am from Cheltenham Racecourse. The Fat Controller will once again be overseeing proceedings and trying to make sure that Thomas doesn't get into any mischief. As well as all the action on the rails, there is plenty more to see and do to make your Day Out With Thomas the
perfect all-day family activity, including: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ For
Meet the Fat Controller! Live re-enactments with Thomas and the Fat Controller Fun and games in the Imagination Station Thomas face painting A traditional Punch & Judy show A family magic show Balloon modelling – new for 2014 A model railway exhibition See the Troublesome Trucks Ride the narrow gauge railway at Toddington Extra special fun – ride between Toddington and Winchcombe on a genuine London Routemaster bus more details, visit www.gwsr.com
Unique and magical 18th Century Garden set in the magnificent Cotswold Countryside ● Anniversary Maze ● Georgian Follies ● Children’s Nature Trail ● Tea Room ● Gift Shop ● Plant Sales Open until October 31 Daily 11am-5pm Painswick, Glos GL6 6TH Tel 01452 813204 Fax 01452 814888 www.rococogarden.co.uk A Registered Charity
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To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
KIDS DIRE!T… "#$ %$& %!'()('(*+
SUMMER
You can be a squash wizard WIZARDS Squash is held at Old Pats Club and Sacred Hearts Club in Cheltenham. The emphasis at Wizards Squash is having lots of fun while learning how to play squash, with group and individual sessions for all ages from five through to 18 years. Group sessions are held most weekdays and Saturdays with extra morning sessions during the school holidays. Wizards Squash is now in its 17th year. It offers a structured programme of sessions (by ability not age), with each player’s performance recorded for their continuing assessment. Through this method each player has personal feedback on progress for all the main skills (with our Wizards Squash Skills tests). A team of four under 11s, all from the Wizards and representing Gloucestershire, won the National Under 11s Intercounty Championships in Manchester earlier this year. To play squash you need to be very fit. To achieve this we use outdoor facilities – a large playing field and Leckhampton Hill. We include outdoor running of various distances such as a 684m lap of the field, Cooper’s test, hill sprints, tree shuttles and stair sprints to mention but a few. Other fun ways of attaining the skills and fitness required to play squash include tag, Mission Impossible, tag relay, hit ball high, hit ball far, mini-court (a smaller court inside the full size one) and lots more. Prize points are awarded for personal
FREE website listing . . .
2014
Free coaching offer Want to get started but don’t know how? Well, Gary is offering free 30-minute taster sessions. All you have to do is phone Gary to book a convenient time for you and your child. Call Gary on 01242 525665.
WizardsSquash@hotmail.com
01242 525665 bests at a skill or fitness test and usually for winning group session competitions. Prize Points equal pence – a few years ago a junior player saved up enough Prize Points to buy a racket! Taster sessions are held during school holidays and can be booked on Saturdays at 3.30pm. Please come along and give us a try. Give Gary Powell a call on 01242 525665 or email wizardssquash@hotmail.com
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Next issue: AUTUMN TERM. Call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
To advertise call 01452 855384 or email joyce.m@blueyonder.co.uk
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