Families Magazine - Brisbane Schools & Education Issue 17 by Families Magazine - Brisbane

Issue 17: August/September 2016 www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Brisbane

Brisbane Schools & Education

How Schools are Future Proofing Our Kids Is Your Child ‘Future Smart’? Coding for Kids Advocating for Your Child at School

The Clever Resource for Thinking Parents

August/September 2016

Contents 3 HAVE YOU FUTURE PROOFED YOUR KIDS?! What does that even mean? I’ve barely finished baby proofing the house and the smallest is almost two. If child proofing involves scattered ineffective measures to protect an infant from its own ingenious drive to perish how will I protect my kids from a future of Netflix and chill?! What if their friends are robots? What if even the robots don’t like them?! What if body modification is the next tattoo craze and the youngest gets LED iPhone operated antlers?! It’s ok guys, I got a bit hysterical. Sometimes when I realise it’s too late to kid-proof my future I get panicky but if art school taught me one thing it’s that desperate people will always find a way to survive. I have zero commercially viable skills from that degree but I’m heaps of fun so I get invited to lots of parties where I can subsist on canapes and free booze. I will teach my kids the ways of my people: the struggling artists. Failing that I will find a school which offers robotics and sell the kids for parts. This issue is a handy guide for working out which schools have thought way more about your child’s future than I have - glad someone is! If we make it through the robot uprising of 2025 and the Singularity (Google it) I can’t wait to tell my kids about the olden days when we had to plug our phones in to charge and put a cord into a computer to reach the internet. I hope they’ll accept my Virtual Reality Skype calls! I hope they’ll explain how to make Virtual Reality Skype calls!

Local News Find out what is happening locally for Families

5-8

Parenting & Families Health Nailing It – a message for teens Where to find help with domestic violence

9-15

Education The Art of Advocacy Homeschooling – raising homegrown students Is Your child Future Smart? Coding for kids

16-23

Schools Feature Local Schools - teaching our kids for their future

28-30

Families Fun Circle all the family events you plan to do over August & September

Families Freebies Win cool stuff for your family

Simone Eclair

Simone Eclair insists she is a Brisbane comedian (but you can decide for yourself ). Follow her on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram (simone.eclair) if you are inclined or enjoy her blog and videos at simoneeclair.com.

Next issue October/November 2016 – Deadline Friday 2 Sept 2016 Focus on Toddlers, Childcare & Daycare

Readership over 100,00 every issue. Published 6 times a year. For families in Brisbane, Ipswich, Redlands, Logan and the Moreton Region.

☎ 07 3265 5738

Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au

www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au

Cover image: depositphotos.com

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Families News

LOCAL FAMILIES NEWS

Sponsored by

Looking for the latest local news and views? We've got it covered! BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT:

FAMILIES MAGAZINE – GOLD COAST

BRISBANE ARTS THEATRE GOES PRO & GETS A MAKE-OVER

Brisbane Arts Theatre will transform their creative operations in 2017 as they transition to a semiprofessional theatre company. Established in 1936, their 80-year-old theatre company has been the city's gateway theatre for decades. Providing accessible theatre for Brisbane audiences they have been a firm favourite with Families Magazine. They are also undertaking an extensive renovation project including a new bar and box office, relocated within the courtyard, allowing better access, space and visibility, new restrooms, relocated to the ground floor, a new timber balcony above the courtyard, extending and enclosing front-of-house patron areas and offering views of Brisbane as well as a new conference room on first floor and more! Brisbane Arts Theatre are seeking both donations for the project as well as calling for applications for their inaugural stock company of performers and technical personnel for 2017. Open auditions will continue throughout the year for ensemble roles, and for performers on their children's theatre stage. The details can be found at www.artstheatre.com.au

Families Magazine – Brisbane, Ipswich and Toowoomba now have a little sister! Please join us in welcoming Families Magazine – Gold Coast to our Families Family! With the success of the local magazines across the three cities, we are excited that we now have a local Gold Coast Editor, Rebel Wylie, running the local magazine for families on the Gold Coast, Tweed and Byron Shires. It will contain all the same things that you know and love from the Families brand; local news, things to do with kids, families health and parenting articles and tonnes of freebies and discounts to keep mums, dads, grandparents and carers up-to-date and in the black when raising their families. If you are visiting the Gold Coast, keep an eye out for it and local libraries, clubs, classes and activities as well as libraries and other family friendly destinations. Find out more www.familiesmagazine.com.au and choose ‘Gold Coast’

FUTURE PROOFING FUN AT TV TRAINING Future Proofing your kids by building their confidence doesn’t come with any more fun than this new workshop offered by TV Training. This September school holidays they are offering local kids the chance to practice their skills in front of a TV camera for a day of learning and fun designed to boost their self-confidence on their 1 Day Kids TV Presenter Workshop! Your child will learn invaluable skills in; Communication; Confidence; Self Esteem! We visited the team at TV Training in June this year and our kids had a blast! Places are limited. Book early to avoid disappointment! www.tvtraining.com.au

THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS - RED

CARPET EVENT FOR KIDS

Join the Families Magazine staff and kids on Sunday 28 August as we present The Secret Life of Pets at the Dendy Portside cinema. With kids activities starting at 10am and the main show beginning at 11am this is a special advanced screening not to be missed. The Dendy at Portside is fast becoming the ‘go to’ place for kids movies. You get free parking with a validated ticket, kid friendly session times, ‘Reel Bubs’ sessions for parents with little ones and much more – check out all their family friendly options. www.dendy.com.au

CREATING MEMORIES WITH WHITE WINGED DOVES A unique small business that began from a Brisbane woman’s son’s hobby has become a beautiful local success story. Fiona Robinson breeds and trains pure white racing pigeons to fly home to their house after being released at significant family events. Whatever your special event, whether it be joyous, commemorative or celebratory, a dove release is an elegant and heartfelt addition as a symbol of love, peace and hope. For more information: White Wings Dove Service www.whitewingsdoveservice.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Bump 2 Business Bump 2 Business

COME AND COOK What does the future hold for the business? I am moving into specialized workshops in areas such as Gluten-Free, FODMAP friendly and allergy friendly in general as well as working with adults.

What is the best bit about what you do? Tell us a bit about yourself. I am originally from Tasmania where I was brought up in the hospitality industry, as my parents renovated and ran a Bed and Breakfast Hotel which we also lived in. After studying teaching I moved to London for thirteen years where I met my husband and had our two children.

I love being able to run my own business from home, to inspire others and to follow my passion. Being able to combine my love and flair for food with my background of teaching and hospitality enriches my life and brings personal satisfaction and joy.

Any bad bits? Cleaning up the workshops is not my favourite thing but it is necessity of the job.

What is ‘Come and Cook’?

How do you fit work around family life?

‘Come and Cook’ is a cooking school that offers one off classes as well as progressive, weekly after-school courses. Classes cater for special requests, themes and age-groups. Workshops are run in The Gap in a commercial style kitchen with children, teens and adults.

I run after-school classes and my kids go to after-school care and when I have school holiday or weekend workshops they are looked after by Grandparents. My adult classes will be run in school hours to fit in with the children’s school day.

How did you get started?

What advice would you give other mums looking to work for themselves?

Cooking has always brought me joy, satisfaction and fulfilled a personal need for creativity. I trained in Hospitality before studying Early Childhood Education in Tasmania.

Follow your passion. If it inspires you, you are confident in your own ability and there is a niche market for it, then give it a go. The worst thing would be to have never tried.

I left primary school teaching and began my own cooking business in schools while living in London (2002-2010). I wanted to share my skills, enthusiasm for hands-on learning as well as my love of cooking. We moved to Australia and I began my business here in The Gap in late 2015.

Karen Browne ph: 0488 249595 www.comeandcook.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

NAILING IT!

Parenting DECIDE WHAT YOU WANT TO BE – BECOME THE HERO IN YOUR OWN STORY. Ask yourself a couple of questions, and take a moment to answer them: > Who do you want to be/choose to be? > What is important to you? > What makes you happy? > How will you invest in yourself to make this a reality? >W hat needs to change in your 24-hour investment to make this happen for you? Be prepared to make the hard decisions and do the work.

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO CREATE FOR YOURSELF?

SEE YOURSELF AS YOU MOST VALUABLE ASSET - INVEST WISELY Be the real thing, don’t just talk, walk the walk. The time you invest in yourself now is what you will be good at in a years’ time. What are you investing most of your time in? Have an honest look, do you spend the majority of that dressing up for Facebook selfies, or mastering the next level on your newest Xbox game? What you are dedicating your time to is what you are mastering. What will you have to show for it? If you haven’t allocated time for study, not just homework, this will limit your success. If you don’t allocate time for exercise, proper nutrition your body and mind simply can’t perform at peak. Success is a collection of the millions of little choices and efforts you put in every day. You become what you invest your time in.

After you have thought about those questions, map out your 24 hour investment in yourself again. Write down your plan and put it up in your room as a commitment to yourself. What you are going to change? Fill it in again with what you want your life to be. Make room for everything that makes you happy, chart your success. Your life is a result of all your choices. So if something doesn’t work for you, make better choices. Now it’s time to make it happen! Tamsyn Rosenberg Founder of Get Real International and is a recognised expert in mental and emotional wellbeing. Supporting individuals, families, communities, teens and the organisations that support them. For more information www.getrealintenational.com or find them on Facebook or email them directly info@getrealintenational.com

Sesame Lane

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Families Health

When You or Someone You Know is Struggling with Domestic Violence This year our TV screens and social media feeds have been full of the news of many serious tragedies of violence during or at the end of intimate relationships. We have all heard of many women and children whose lives have been lost as a result of senseless violence. And while this is happening there are so many more families who are living the consequences of these crimes on a daily basis. They are in need of our help but it is often impossible for them to ask. Over the past two years we’ve seen Rosie Batty travel our country, advocating for change and bringing the tragedy that is domestic violence to the forefront of the Australian community’s minds. Never before has there been such a public dialogue around such a significant issue and I feel we are finally on a wave to change. When we look back to the beginning of this year alone, almost two woman each week have lost their lives as a result of violence caused by their supposed loved ones. We of course call these acts ‘domestic violence’ more than we call them acts of ‘murder’ which I think is a big part of the challenge we face as society. Until we class violence between partners or former partners purely as ‘violence’ we will continue to be able to push these acts into a category of their own where they can continue to occur behind closed doors and often out of sight from most of us.

What is Domestic Violence? Domestic Violence is Violence. It includes acts of assault, battery, intimidation, power abuse, control, manipulation and as we are currently seeing too regularlymurder. By grouping these serious crimes under the title of ‘domestic violence’

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

I fear we are too able to separate ourselves from the truth- that these acts by one human being against another are illegal, unjust and not to be tolerated.

Domestic Violence can include• Acts of physical harm- assault, damage to property or pets • Emotional and psychological abuse- behaviours that are designed to destroy your confidence and sense of self including regular put downs or humiliation • Verbal abuse • Financial abuse- including the removal of or limitation of access to finances to remove independence • Controlling behaviours, social abuse and stalking- including excessive tracking of your whereabouts, excessive calls or texts or ‘online’ tracking • Sexual abuse I am a family lawyer who regularly encounters domestic violence during my day to day work. Since I began my career I have been exposed to some of the most heinous acts of violence during relationships. Acts of physical harm are often the easiest to identify but emotional, psychological and other forms of controlling and undermining behaviours are just as damaging on those who experience them.

So what help is available? If you, or someone you know is suffering any form of domestic violence there is help available.

Families Health Here in Brisbane and around Queensland there are a many free services that can provide immediate assistance and supports such as counselling, legal advice and accommodation.

Services that are available includeDV Connect - www.dvconnect.org DV Connect offers extensive assistance to women, men and children. They have a 24 hour hotline that you can call on 1800 811 811 for immediate access to trained advisors in this area. Life Line - www.lifeline.org.au Lifeline also offers extensive supports and have a 24 hour hotline on 131 114. 1800Respect - www.1800respect.org.au 1800Respect offers a 24 national counselling hotline 1800 737 732. Women’s Legal Service Qld - www.wlsq.org.au WLSQ offers free legal assistance to women suffering from domestic violence here in Brisbane and around Queensland. They also have a free hotline open daily between 9-3 on 1800 957 957. Legal Aid Qld - www.legalaid.qld.gov.au Legal Aid Qld also provides free legal assistance to men and women around the State and can be contacted on 1300 651 188. There are many other services available to families experiencing domestic violence. But sometimes we are the best resource. Lifeline report that 1 in 4 women have experienced domestic violence in a relationship. If you pause and think about that, there is a good chance that you, or someone you know is right now trying to manage these issues in their day to day life.

A few things you may be able to do to help someone you know who is suffering domestic violence include• Talking to them about your concerns, tell them you are worried about them and why and let them know you are able to support them. • Putting them in touch with professional supports such as those listen above • Demonstrating kindness so they know they can call on you if needed in the future • Keep in regular contact • If they leave a relationship, be ready to offer support thereafter, offering practical supports such are care of children so they can get in touch with DV services And always remember we don’t know what it is like to walk in someone else’s shoes. It can be so hard for someone in these circumstances to seek help so when they do it is so important that we are not judgmental but that we do what we can at that time for them.

How you can help locally So how can you help? If you suspect that someone you know is suffering from domestic violence there are things you can do to help. Sometimes we fear ‘interfering’ but this is one of those moments in life where it is important to reach out as chances us the person you are trying to help is unable to call out for help. At the very least you can listen, without judgment. Just being available to a friend of family member to hear their worries and concerns can be the beginning of them getting the assistance they might need. You will need to be sensitive, supportive and available.

No woman should suffer the indignity of choosing between eating or buying sanitary items. In April and August each year you can support local women by donating pads and tampons to restore a little dignity to women in domestic violence refuges or finding themselves homeless. Please help to Share the Dignity. www.sharethedignity.com.au Clarissa Rayward is a Collaborative Family Lawyer & Family Mediator at Brisbane Family Law Centre 07 3862 1955 www.brisbanefamilylawcentre.com.au To find out more about the friendly team at Brisbane Family Law Centre watch their video.

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Parenting

Join the fun before they turn one! Play Stars has launched, providing families with a child under one free Playgroup Queensland membership for 12 months. By the time your child turns three they will have developed the skills to become a lifelong learner. As your child’s first and foremost teacher you will play a crucial role in this learning journey. Play is the easiest way to help your child learn and grow because ‘play’ is not just fun, it is how your child learns. When your child paints, draws, listens to stories, sings songs or dresses up they are getting ready for school by building their vocabulary, expressing themselves, learning to listen, strengthening muscles in their hands and developing hand–eye coordination that will help them to identify numbers, letters and words.

Playgroups give you and your child one-on-one play away from home and everyday distractions. At playgroup you can: u

discover new ways to play with your child

meet new people and make new friends

share ideas and experiences

learn from other parents

watch your child learn by developing new skills

learn more about your community and how  to connect with local services

and have fun!

This is why the Queensland Government has partnered with Playgroup Queensland to launch Play Stars. The Queensland Government is committed to creating opportunities for all children to access quality early years’ experiences, regardless of their circumstances or where they live.

Why playgroups are good for children

“Playgroup offers families the chance to connect with other parents, carers and children in their local community. Many families rely on playgroup to obtain information about other local services, schools and community activities. Being a part of a playgroup allows families to develop a sense of belonging within the community and gives them reassurance in their parental journey,” Playgroup Queensland CEO Ian Coombe said.

enjoy stories and music

socialise with other children and adults

explore the world around them through play

try out new imaginative and creative activities

and have fun!

“To create a strong network of support, connections are important. Families with young children often feel isolated, alone in their decision making and unsure about how to raise their children. Playgroup performs a vital role in reassuring parents that they are not alone and if they do need help playgroup can either provide it or point them in the right direction.”

Playgroups can also help young children start developing skills they need for school, like learning to share, taking turns and making friends.

A playgroup is an informal session where babies and young children and their caregivers regularly meet in a relaxed environment. They are usually held once a week in community venues such as a local school, community hall or park. Playgroup Queensland playgroups are run by participating families or volunteers. Whether you are a mum, dad, carer, grandparent or family member, everyone is welcome at playgroup.

Why playgroups are good for parents

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Your child will join in different activities suitable for their age and play with other children. At playgroup, your child will:

Join Playgroup Queensland for free. To become a Play Star simply register with Playgroup Queensland before your child’s first birthday.  Find out more by visiting: playgroupqueensland.com.au or call 1800 171 882

Education

THE ART OF ADVOCACY STEPS TO HELP YOUR CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Every parent can and needs to be an advocate for their child at different times. It is vital and so necessary. For the parent of a child with special needs, advocating for their child can present additional challenges.

Grandin wrote, "There needs to be a lot more emphasis on what a child can do instead of what they cannot do." When a challenge arises, in most circumstances it is best to approach the class teacher and special needs teacher first, rather than progressing to the principal. This helps to build trust and lets the teacher know that you want to partner with them â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to work alongside them â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to resolve any concerns. Approach the teacher sooner rather than later. This allows strategies and actions to be used which may reduce the problem from escalating. Sometimes teachers may not be aware that there is a difficulty and a minor change at school can significantly reduce the problem (whether it presents at home or school). Often children do not tell staff of their problems and by keeping teachers informed many difficulties can be reduced or avoided.

TRY AND TRY AGAIN

Sometimes the first steps that are taken to solve a challenge or difficulty may not be successful. It is not necessarily that the ideas and strategies were not appropriate but they did not work for your child. With the teacher, review what has happened, and develop the next step to try. Occasionally this may happen several times before the best plan is developed. Communication is important whether by email, note, communication book or meeting. IEP (Individual Education Plan) or Support Plan meetings are an important face to face opportunity to ask questions and plan ahead for your child's needs. Prepare for these meetings by writing a list of points to cover, so that precise needs that you have can be discussed.

DEVELOP POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS WITH THE TEACHERS AND SCHOOL The first step is to establish a positive relationship with your child's class teacher and special needs or learning support teacher. They are there to help you and their desire is to meet your child's needs as they journey through the school years. Initially establishing a positive relationship with the teacher will make it easier to approach them when challenges arise. Just as you want and need to hear positive comments about their child so teachers need to hear positive feedback about what they are doing. It is essential to view the parent-teacher relationship as a partnership, knowing that both parties have the desire for the child to reach potential and develop the skills required to flourish beyond the schooling years.

PLAN AHEAD FOR SCHOOL EVENTS

KEEP TRACK OF COMMUNICATION

Create a folder that has all the reports and information about your child. This folder is particularly helpful when first approaching a school for enrolment. This includes writing down the questions before you meet with doctors, therapists and teachers. Having the questions or points written down means they are not forgotten. It is often helpful to start the list early and add to it as you think of additional questions rather than completing it just before the meeting.

FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE

Lastly, it is easier said than done, but try to stay positive and celebrate the achievements and small steps that your child makes. Let the teacher know when your child has achieved something that may have taken weeks, months or even years. By staying active and positive in your child's life you are making a difference.

Be proactive and plan ahead for your child's needs. If you know that something in the school calendar or a type of learning activity that is coming up may present challenges for your child, approach the teacher and discuss the needs before the event. This will enable steps to be put into place to reduce negative experiences. It also enables your child to get the most from the learning experience.

My final words are these: It has been my privilege to work with many parents and children with special needs over my years of teaching. I admire the strength that it takes to persevere and be what your child needs. I have learned much from parents who have positively advocated and worked with me to meet their child's needs.

KEEP COMMUNICATING

Cheryl Weatherill Learning Support Coordinator Living Faith Lutheran Primary School. For more information about Living Faith Primary School www.livingfaith.qld.edu.au

Usually children's needs change over time so communicate these changes with the teacher allowing them to adjust what they do with your child. Temple

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Education

HOMESCHOOLING In modern life, it is common practice to ‘outsource’ for most of our daily needs. How many of us sew our own clothes, grow our own veggies, grind our own flour, bake our own bread or service our own cars? Many people who have the opportunity and the inclination will take back some of these responsibilities and use their own resources, to ‘insource’.

Raising Home-grown students Many parents consider that, for a variety of reasons, they themselves would like to take care of the education of their children. This is the rapidly growing phenomenon known as homeschooling. This is a legal and viable educational alternative in Australia.

INSOURCING EDUCATION

All parents will insource some of these responsibilities, but is there a firm limit of where the parent’s responsibilities end and paid “experts” must take over? In regard to education, our Western culture has long conditioned us that others will “take care of that”.

• Protection of family values and relationships.

Hundreds of homeschooled students have progressed on to university courses such as Law, Medicine, Nursing, Engineering, Teaching, Veterinary Science and every other university course or career you could name. Hundreds have moved into trades, traineeships, business, and self-employment.

What may be surprising is that a growing number of parents have decided to apply this to their own children: to insource education and raise their very own crop of home grown students.

Why would anyone want to do that? Isn’t that the school’s job? Well, aren’t fresh vegetables the farmer’s job, or making bread the baker’s job? Whose job is it to teach how to tie shoelaces, or how to eat and dress, or the difference between right and wrong?

• Reduction of the stress and anxiety often associated with heavy work load and homework pressure; The question of how to best educate one’s children is surely one of the most important considerations a parent will face. There are so many things to think about, and ultimately we all want the best opportunities for our children in the workplace, in further studies and in society.

Not every person has the time or the skills to insource any or many of these activities, but there is a certain satisfaction that comes with growing your own, baking your own, making your own, or maintaining your own.

In 2014, there were 12,784 students registered for homeschooling in Australia, with Queensland accounting for 1,379 of them.

• Significant relief from the financial burden associated with private schooling;

WHY HOMESCHOOL? • The academic advantage of meeting the child at their level and allowing progression at their own pace, with individual attention; • Concern about what is being taught; • Concern about how things are taught; • Ability to more closely monitor social interaction and peer pressure; • Elimination of the need for long distance travel;

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

There is no one size fits all in education, and no one pathway to the career of choice. But with homeschooling, a committed parent, and a willing student, there are no obstacles, only choices. Greg and April Simon operate SouthEast Home Education, a homeschool support service of Southern Cross Educational Enterprises. To find out more about homeschooling check out their website: www.australiahomeschooling.com.au

Education

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Education

IS YOUR CHILD

‘future-smart’? What are the magic ingredients your child will need to flourish in an unpredictable world? And how can they be developed? Few television shows have had the cultural impact of Star Trek and this is especially evident in the one-liners that have become part of the English language. Captain Kirk’s opening narration ‘To boldly go where no man has gone before’ had a sense of futuristic nonsense to it. Well, we live in that place now. Wearable technologies, handheld computers, electronic navigation, location settings, voice-activated computers and augmented reality are part of our current world. Many adults find the pace of change somewhat overwhelming and the phrase ‘change fatigue’ has real application for most of us. This is not so with children. Teenagers regard ongoing technological advances as the norm and absorb them very easily. The digital environment is natural to them; it is not an optional extra. It is integral to the way they live, relate and view life. The pace of change will not lessen and may increase. Therefore, a core life skill for our children is to learn how to hold on to this magical ability they have at present, so they can keep adapting to change as a normal part of work and leisure in the future.

Knowing How To Learn

learn has become an essential skill. Working with digital technologies in schools provides an opportunity to transform how students think and learn and also give them greater control over what, how, where and when they learn.

However, the Digital Age also brings challenges and pressures that are new in our society. The rate of technological innovation is now so fast that schools are educating students for a world that doesn’t exist yet. Young people must acquire the knowledge, skills and confidence to make digital technology work for them at school, at home, at work and in their communities. Knowing how to

This isn’t a new trend either. The Australian government recognises the need to keep up with this ever-morphing landscape and has identified Information and Communication Technology (ICT) capability as an important element of the new Australian Curriculum. ICT capability involves students learning to make the most of the digital technologies available to them, adapting to new ways

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Education

of doing things as technologies evolve and learning how to limit the risk to themselves and others in a digital environment. Parents are also well aware of the impact of the digital landscape on young people’s lives. Many parents find themselves in the role of guide to the digital environment for their children without having read the manual. Of course, we all know there is no manual! The scary thing is, if someone were to write a manual, it would be obsolete the moment it was published.

Developing the Headware and Heartware So, how do we all, as a society, assist our young people to be effective and responsible citizens of a Digital Age? Lee Watanabe Crockett is acknowledged globally as an innovator in education for the Digital Age. He holds that being 21st Century fluent has nothing to do with hardware; it is about headware and heartware. Young people must learn to develop, debate and create in a digital environment. Some overarching skills are emerging as a set of digital meta-skills critical for managing digital information, navigating the flood of data and embracing

technological innovation. Some of these emerging meta-skills are critical evaluation, visual conceptualization, holistic thinking, collaboration, solutionsfocused problem solving, dealing with uncertainty and ethical thinking. Our schools are integrating these skills into subject curriculum and most teachers are on a steep learning curve.

Asking the Right Questions So are parents totally out of the education loop now that the Digital Age has arrived? Absolutely not. In fact, they are better placed to contribute meaningfully to the education of their children. Education is not just about facts; it is also about good learning processes. Parents can assist a child with any of the emerging meta-skills mentioned above. It doesn’t matter if a parent has forgotten the name of the longest river in the world; this could lead to a great conversation with children about conceptualizing what the longest river might look like, considering challenges that face people who live along the river and posing economic and ethical issues that might arise in the future if the river is mined, dammed, irrigated or just neglected. Parents who have this conversation with their children have just encouraged conceptualization, critical and ethical thinking. If Google gets involved, then add research skills to this list! How long will it be before a scientist somewhere in the world will be able to say ‘Beam me up, Scotty’? This scientist could be one of our children! Parents can be excellent guides-on-the-side for children as they navigate the digital landscape; the secret is to ask good questions. With new technology the world expands with opportunities for young people to work together; to embrace the digital environment to make a positive difference in their own lives and the lives of others. Miriam Scott. Leader of eLearning – Hillbrook Anglican School www.hillbrook.qld.edu.au

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Education

CODING FOR KIDS Code is the twenty-first century literacy, and the need for people to speak the ABCs of programming is imminent. Our world is increasingly run by software, Linda Liukas and we need more diversity in the people who are building it. Digital technology is at the very heart of each and every industry and code is the language of computers, so it makes sense we need to teach our children to write, read, understand and create code, just as we teach any other language. We spend many years teaching the alphabet, then words, sentences, reading and writing to our children, and many go on to learn a second language. Coding is now being seen as just that, another language to be studied at school or home, and used in everyday life. Many schools are now introducing units of work on coding and teachers are integrating it into their planning and teaching. No longer is coding seen as the domain of just those in the IT field, it can be a language for everyone. Families can also take on coding and learn together, with the plethora of books and apps out there on the market (see www.jchild.edublogs.org and www. childrensbooksdaily.com as a starting point). Coding is creative and can be a way to express oneself with a computer. Coding encourages real life skill building such as computational thinking, the idea of learning as a process not a product,

sequencing and mathematical concepts. It also encourages persistence, perseverance and problem solving.

Coding is the new literacy…to thrive in “tomorrow’s society, young people must learn to design, create and express themselves with digital technologies. Mitch Resnick

”

So Where to Start? With Books…

Story making is key to making coding accessible to young people. Stories stick; they stick in the minds of young learners far better than isolated lessons or a set of instructions. Stories give a structure to coding and introduce coding in a meaningful way. There are a number of picture books for young people (and those who have never coded before), the best of which, at the moment, are ‘Hello Ruby’ and ‘Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine’. ‘Hello Ruby’ is perfect for home and low tech classroom use; it unpacks

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

the idea of computational thinking sequencing and introduces some key concepts of coding without the need for a computer. Each chapter has an ‘unplugged’ (offline/non-computer) activity to complete, which cover many aspects of the English and Mathematics Curriculum such as sequencing, algorithms, patterns, structures as well as aspects in the Digital Technologies Curriculum like decomposition, debugging, Booleans, abstraction and computational thinking. By the end of the story, most children (and adults not in the know!) will have a basic understanding of some of the basic language around coding. ‘Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine’ is the story of Ada Lovelace, the daughter of the famous romantic poet, Lord Byron, who develops her creativity through science and math. When she meets Charles Babbage, the inventor of the first mechanical computer, Ada understands the machine better than anyone else and writes the world's first computer program in order to

Education demonstrate its capabilities. Older students can discuss and research issues from the story and then engage with binary games and apps which extend the text: Code Combat; Scratch; BitsBox and Lego Mindstorms (for more experienced coders) or code robots like Bee Bots and Pro Bots.

With Knowledge… As well as using stories to introduce the idea of coding to young people, it it important that they have a basic understanding of some of the common terms which they will come across in their coding work. Knowledge is power as the saying goes, and introducing an understanding of technological terms and the workings of computers increases the confidence of young people keen to get started with coding. Creating a poster of computer and coding terms, for home or school, can help children to become familiar with technological terms and their meanings and allow them to incorporate them into their everyday life. These terms can be sourced online (see below for a list of coding related websites), through reading books such as those mentioned above, or through use of non-fiction books on computers, such as ‘Computers and Coding’, which I now often gift to toddlers and their IT mad parents.

Computational thinking is a fundamental “skill for everyone, not just for computer

scientists. To reading, writing, and arithmetic, we should add computational thinking to every child’s analytical ability. Jeannette M. Wing (Vice President of Microsoft Research)

”

With Play…

how young people learn best. Play involves trial and error, creative thinking, collaboration with parents or peers and most of all, fun…which leads to a natural interest and love of coding. Buddying young inexperienced coders up with more experienced peers and letting them play and learn together can lead to increased skills, confidence and sense of achievement.

the kids a programming environment “ofGiving any sort, whether it's a tool like Squeak or

Scratch or Logo to write programs in a childish way - and I mean that in the most generous sense of the word, that is, playing with and building things - is one of the best ways to learn. Nicholas Negroponte

”

The websites suggestions and books below are an excellent starting point for getting started on coding with the young people in your life. Coding is creative, challenging, excellent fun and satisfying. It will also be one of the most sought-after skills of the future, and a vital skill to develop. This ‘new literacy’ will enable young people to not just use digital technologies but to create digital technologies which create solutions for the future. Megan Daley is a Teacher Librarian in the Junior School Library at St Aidan’s Anglican Girls School. Find out more about her and her passions at www.childrensbooksdaily.com

Websites

Books

ABC Splash, ‘Coding’ www.ab.co/1Nnqxh4

‘Hello Ruby’: www.bit.ly/1Mt0N8g

Code Club Australia: www.bit.ly/1MSyEDW

‘Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine’: www.bit.ly/1XufKr9

Tynker: www.bit.ly/1Lk98JK Scratch: www.bit.ly/1Lk98JK Making, Building and Creating to Learn, ‘Coding in the Library’: www.bit.ly/1N7ur2S Children’s Books Daily, ‘Literature Supporting Coding’: www.bit.ly/1S8V7zk

LOUISE CARLILE

There is a plethora of apps to explore which are play/game based and a world of unplugged/ offline play based experiences which all help with computational thinking.

And then there is play. Time spent playing and experiencing new-found areas of knowledge is

Code.org: www.bit.ly/23sXi9m

F R O M O U R E A R LY E D U C AT I O N E X P E R T A N D C O LU M N I S T

‘Lift the Flap: Computers and Coding’: www.bit.ly/1V00Pam ‘Coding for Beginners Using Scratch’: www.bit.ly/1VSZlgY

More and more I receive feedback from past parents expressing how valuable early childhood music classes are in preparation for school. Naturally, that is music to my ears (pardon the pun) but while I have always known this, communicating it to new parents is not easy. Sound early childhood music programs are holistic learning experiences. They offer foundation level musical elements (to prepare the child for future musical pursuits) but in presenting these in an effective learning environment, provide for the general development of the baby, toddler or young child. The child learns to be an effective learner. A comprehensive curriculum will offer intellectual, social, physical and emotional challenges promoting listening, concentration, team building skills, fine and gross motor practice, personal and social confidence, creativity, problem solving and organisational skills. This list goes on. And all this while the child is simply having fun. Through the use of beat, rhythm, melody and language in a nurturing and supportive environment the child are encouraged to express themselves and take pride in their individual learning journey. Prep is a big leap from pre-school programs with growing demands on young children if they are to experience some personal success early and enjoy and flourish in the structured environment of school. There is no greater tool than music to empower them as effective young learners.

ABOUT THE WRITER: Louise Carlile is the founder and director of Wee Make Music, Early Childhood Music Program in Brisbane. She is a passionate ambassador for the extensive benefits of music education in early childhood development. Wee Make Music offer reputable programs for babies through to pre-prep children in Wilston New Farm and Bulimba. www.weemakemusic.com.au info@weemakemusic.com.au Wait lists may apply

e Make M We u si c Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Education BRISBANE GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Educating for future success Brisbane Grammar School is preparing its students to be lifelong learners who are critical, reflective and creative thinkers, ready to take on life after school, whatever that life may be. Through a broad liberal education BGS promotes collaboration, effective communication, problem solving, perseverance, and a strong moral outlook. The BGS academic curriculum inspiring excellence through a constantly evolving teaching and learning culture, promotes creativity and collaboration, balanced by the student wellbeing curriculum fostering emotional intelligence and a strong connection to public purpose. An important element of future-proofing BGS students centres on leadership, an integral part of holistic development at school. Authentic leadership is not just about speeches and badges, but being role models and active members of the community. The student wellbeing curriculum introduces an action-based program for Years 7-9 students called Learn2Lead. The program centres on teaching students that every boy can lead; to first lead self, then lead others; and leadership is action, not position.

BGS students develop into leaders through their school journey, progressing to Form Seniors in Year 12, when they have opportunities to participate in leadership forums at home and abroad. The Public Purpose Program sees BGS students experience firsthand the benefits of service to others and to their own personal development. An example is the annual Year 10 service trip to Cambodia, where students spend time working on projects in schools and orphanages. A BGS education gives students the opportunities to develop critical intelligence, imaginative and creative powers, effective communication and the capacity and enthusiasm for independent, lifelong learning. BGS is educating for future success. Come along to BGS Open Day to meet the people, see the facilities and explore the opportunities of a BGS student, from 12-3pm on Saturday 6 August. Register at http://svy.mk/1PhZ3jq, visit www.brisbanegrammar.com or call (07) 3834 5200.

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Education GRACE LUTHERAN COLLEGE

Students prepare for the future with grit, growth and grace It is predicted that students who are currently in Year 4 will, in 2025, be working in jobs vastly different to that of today. With workplaces changing at an extraordinary rate where the focus will be on global Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (S.T.E.A.M) it is essential that schools consider this shift in educating today’s youth. Grace Lutheran College, a co-educational Christian secondary College with campuses at both Rothwell and Caboolture, is already preparing students for the future through grit, growth and grace. They are offering numerous S.T.E.A.M subject electives, gifted and talented enrichment opportunities, co-curricular activities and 21st Century skill building including problem solving, collaboration, critical thinking, and innovation. GRIT: PASSION, PERSERVERANCE AND PATIENCE The Academic Enrichment Programmes at Grace aim to empower gifted and talented students to navigate and pace their own learning journey, adapting to suit their individual learning needs, whilst supporting them to strive for excellence and high achievement. With programmes in S.T.E.A.M and English Literature the students will develop grit, equipping them with academic knowledge and applications to get ahead of the game. Grace has partnered with FIRST® Australia and Macquarie University to offer world class Robotics facilities, training and tournaments to students of the College and the wider community. Each year, the College hosts FIRST® LEGO League for Northern Brisbane which sees over 1000 students and parents from teams all over Australia meet for the tournament at their Rothwell Campus. Students from all year levels can study robotics and choose to build robots for global competitions. GROWTH: CONFIDENT, ENGAGED AND CREATIVE All students at Grace are immersed in a “growth mindset” where errors and mistakes are seen as useful tools for moving forward. Young people with a

growth mindset are confident, successful, purposeful, engaged, creative and co-operative. A happy student is an engaged student. School can be a serious business at times but Grace recognises that young people need to enjoy learning and know that, particularly in secondary school, they also need plenty of variety and challenge. They want teachers who take them seriously, but who also have a sense of humour. Googa, the four week Outdoor Education Programme all Year 10 Grace students attend, broadens their life skills, preparing them for jobs of the future. Skills learnt at Googa assist them to grow academically and personally in the final two years of school and beyond. The aim of this journey is for the students to hone self-reliance, leadership and team work skills, and understand their spiritual path. Teaching methods such as Flip Teaching are used at Grace to deliver the compacted Mathematics component of the enrichment programme, providing enormous benefits and opportunities to students as they access all the lessons and content via online videos. This model allows students to be proactive in their own growth and allows them to revise content when needed, or move at a faster pace through the curriculum. GRACE: VALUED, SAFE AND SUPPORTED At Grace all students are encouraged to look outwards as well as within – having an awareness of the world and a willingness to get involved. Grace students are given many opportunities to develop grace in the local and global communities at one of their four partner schools in Japan, Indonesia, China and Germany or visit to serve or learn in Cambodia, Africa and USA. When students meet different people face-to-face in challenging contexts, it takes courage, but it changes them for the better. If you would like to experience the Grace Way, download the prospectus or attend the Rothwell Open Day on Sunday 16 October 1pm – 4pm. Visit gracecollege.com.au for more information.

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Education S T J A M E S CO L L E G E

Trades Skills Centre St James College is a Registered Training Organisation as well as a Catholic Coeducational Secondary School. As part of the Vocational Education and Training (VET) offerings, many certificate courses are serviced by our industry standard Trades Skills Centre which is part of the Brisbane Flexible Learning Trade Training Centre. Equipped with state of the art equipment, including a Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) Router, hydraulic guillotines and Press Brake, the workshops are resourced to deliver certificate courses in Construction, Engineering, Furnishing and Manufacturing. These qualifications prepare students for a wide range of industries and pathways to further learning and training. Consortium members are joined by industry representatives in the governance structure to ensure the maintenance of industry relevance in the courses offered. The College offers a range of VET courses including Business Studies, Information, Digital Media and Technology, Outdoor Education, Sports Coaching and Hospitality. Students are also able to access offerings from external providers both private and through TAFE Colleges. These offerings are available to all students including students with aspirations to study at university who access the College’s full range of Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority subjects. The College offers all prerequisite subjects for entry to all Australian Universities and Universities worldwide. Our highest performing students gain scholarships to leading Universities studying in innovative courses preparing them for a wide range of future careers. St James College is located in a Central Business District location with contemporary facilities including many specialist facilities built to demanding standards. Easy access to the city’s cultural facilities also provides opportunities for a rich variety of learning experiences. The central transport hubs provides easy access to the College from all over Brisbane and beyond.

M O U N T A LV E R N I A CO L L E G E

Nurturing a culture of learning Our aim is to nurture a culture of learning to ensure all members of the community are active learners. We have established and continue to develop programs, learning experiences, opportunities, processes and unique physical spaces that ensure a safe, supportive and innovative learning environment. LEARNING AND TEACHING FRAMEWORK With the Franciscan values overarching all that we do, our Learning and Teaching Framework provides the professional platform for all learning approaches. These approaches include inquiry based and interdisciplinary programs, a focus on growth mindset and intentional goal setting, and incorporate strong outreach and community connections. We offer a diverse range of subjects throughout the school. Our key intent is to engage our learners in ‘learning that matters’. Research shows that engagement is linked to positive learning and life outcomes. As such, our framework encompasses six core principles, with all learning experiences emanating from these: • Sharing practice

• Enabling excellence

• Realising potential

• Building resilience

• Forging connections

• Engaging learners

LEARNING COMMUNITY We see ourselves as a learning community, and our approaches aim to prepare our young women for the futures they face. Together, we: • encourage, expect, and require authentic collegiality among the adults in the system, • model, encourage, and expect student participation and active engagement, • set high expectations for all students while providing appropriate social and academic supports, and • promote a sense of belonging among students by encouraging and recognising diverse expressions of competence and expertise

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Education ST MARGARE T ’S

Thinking for the future Professional triber, neuro-augmentation technician and brain backup engineer are not jobs you will currently see advertised, but according to futurists, in ten years, these are the kinds of careers in which many of our young people will be employed. How, then, does a school prepare its students for jobs that are no more than forecasts? The key to ‘future proofing’ students for, as yet, unknown careers, according to St Margaret’s Dean of Pedagogy Samantha Bolton, is ensuring they are capable of higher-order thinking, which leads to the deepest level of understanding and the capacity to transfer these understandings to new and unfamiliar contexts. “In a world which is constantly growing and evolving, we must teach students to become questioners, critics, constructors of knowledge and problem solvers,” says Ms Bolton. “They must emerge from schools with an understanding of learning that goes beyond the remembering of data and always coming up with the correct answer.” In 2016, St Margaret’s launched its Framework of Quality Teaching and Learning, which articulates expectations around effective learning environments, learning processes and the pedagogy which links the two, in order to produce students who can engage in critical and creative thinking. “By creating a high quality thinking environment, we can develop students with the skills to transfer their understandings to unfamiliar contexts, including a future that may look very different to the world in which we are currently operating,” said Ms Bolton. While the framework acts as a guide to embedding the teaching of higherorder thinking skills across the curriculum, specific high-order thinking classes are also conducted to explicitly challenge students to think about their thinking. “The rote learning and knowledge regurgitation of the past must give way to schools that promote a rich culture of thinking to best prepare our children for the future,” said Ms Bolton.

M O R E TO N B AY CO L L E G E

International Mindedness – equipping today’s students for tomorrow’s world! In an increasingly globalised world, it is no longer satisfactory for schools to provide education focusing only on the local community. Students also need to be provided with the skills and dispositions necessary to function as successful learners in the 21st century. WHAT IS AN IB WORLD SCHOOL? The International Baccalaureate’s Primary Years Program (PYP) is a framework based on the best international research and practice for the education of 3 – 12 year olds. It emphasises the importance of educating the whole person, equipping our girls with the disposition and capacity to operate as active and responsible members of their community in not only a local sense, but also in national and global contexts. CAN ANY SCHOOL BECOME AN IB SCHOOL? Moreton Bay College have explored and progressed through the International Baccalaureate’s rigorous international standards to become an IB World School, authorised to administer the Primary Years Program as an educational framework for their students. Our brother school, Moreton Bay Boys’ College follows the Primary Years Program and continues this learning for the boys in the Middle Years Program (MYP). WHAT’S DIFFERENT? A large component of this is the Learner Profile which goes beyond academic success. Our students are encouraged to explore, wonder, question and inquire into the world around them. They are provided with learning opportunities to think and solve problems critically and creatively, to work collaboratively and communicate effectively within our rapidly changing world. DIRECTION AND GUIDANCE THROUGH LIFE WITH THE IB PHILOSOPHY As well as living these attributes on a daily basis through focused learning, these are strikingly represented in the primary school in the form of large colourful pencils showing the words which make up the IB attributes. At our brother school, nearby Moreton Bay Boy’s College the IB language is visible around the school in the form of street signs. This is a wonderful statement to visitors and guests and a great conversation starter about our IB World school, learning framework and teaching philosophy.

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Education B E T H A N I A LU T H E R A N S C H O O L

Educating for the Future

At Bethania Lutheran School, we celebrate different learning styles by encouraging and supporting our students to make decisions about how they learn best and explore and focus to achieve their learning goals. Our innovative agile classroom designs show how the learning landscape is changing. We’ve purposefully created innovative, physical, virtual and cultural learning spaces, designed to meet the ever changing needs of contemporary learners. CONTEMPORARY AGILE LEARNING SPACES Facilitating movement, collaborative learning and access to digital technologies, has been a guiding factor in how each classroom is designed. By using standing desks, movable soft furnishings, adjustable tables, fit balls and stools, as well as a range of writeable surfaces, we have developed learning spaces that are flexible and engaging. All spaces are owned by the whole class, allowing for movement around the room, promoting the concept of collaborative learning. Our learning spaces include a place for “campfires”, “caves” and “watering holes”, enabling students to participate in whole and small group discussions, as well as providing the opportunity to retreat for independent learning. VIRTUAL LEARNING BLS embraces the needs of contemporary learners by developing a strong connection with virtual environments. Our take home iPad program delivers 1:1 iPads to all students from Years 3 to 6, and classroom sets of iPads enable the sharing of one device between two students in classes from Prep to Year 2. This program allows for the delivery of digital content, both in the classroom and at home. Apple TVs are available in every learning space, to facilitate collaboration with devices. Laptops are utilised across the school, extending students’ skills beyond a tablet level. CULTURAL LEARNING Classrooms at Bethania Lutheran School are not just rooms where learning takes place; they are spaces where students and teacher join together as a community of learners in a supportive and nurturing environment. At Bethania Lutheran School we pride ourselves in ‘doing education differently’ in order to prepare our students for an ever changing future. Call for a personalised tour of our state of the art contemporary learning facilities and experience for yourself the Bethania difference.

S O U T H E R N C R O S S C AT H O L I C CO L L E G E

Offering the best opportunities to succeed In this fast-paced and ever-changing world, Southern Cross Catholic College (SCCC) provides a unique educational journey for every student. At SCCC, your child’s education is divided into four phases, with specialist teachers in every phase to ensure educational success. A relevant and meaningful curriculum is future-focused and attentive to the needs of today’s youth and their world. EARLY YEARS Prep to Year 2 is a time where teachers establish explicit and transparent goals, set realistic but challenging expectations and provide each student with feedback to further enhance learning. The foundational skills of literacy and numeracy are established and the achievement and progress of all students is tracked and monitored. JUNIOR YEARS Students in Years 4-6 are challenged to expand their skills and knowledge whilst staff nurture individual abilities to foster success. Passionate junior years teachers are committed to knowing their learners and the impact their learning experiences have on all aspects of their development. Goals, expectations, practice and feedback are all key elements that make learning visible in the Junior Years. MIDDLE YEARS Incorporating Years 7-9, a dynamic curriculum engages and challenges student perceptions, perspectives and opinions. The development of skills such as responsibility, communication, organisation, problem solving and creative thinking are strongly promoted, with the emphasis on developing lifelong independent learning skills. SENIOR YEARS In the final phase of learning, Years 10-12 students are prepared for entry into the world. Leadership is a key focus and students are encouraged to contribute positively. Academically, specialist staff in the forefront of their fields ensure students meet and exceed the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority requirements. At SCCC we give your children the very best opportunities to succeed in a technological world where change is the only certainty.

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Education C L AY F I E L D C O L L E G E

Develop in mind, heart, body and spirit Clayfield College is a place where all individuals are valued for their unique qualities and talents. Our academic, pastoral and co-curricular programs, supported by our exceptional teaching staff, are essential in providing opportunities for your child to grow and develop in mind, heart, body and spirit. We offer a stimulating academic curriculum and extensive co-curricular opportunities for our students to pursue their interest in sport, the arts and service leadership. The College has a strong academic focus where our students are encouraged to set and achieve personal academic goals. Through our extension learning programs, we offer a broad range of activities that foster essential enquiry skills, such as problem solving, creative thinking, flexibility and tenacity. Our relatively small class sizes also ensure that more attention is given to each individual student.

PRE-PREP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; YEAR 3 (GIRLS AND BOYS) Taking those first steps into school life is a major milestone for our little people. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we offer a safe and secure environment that allows our students to develop independence and the necessary social, emotional and personal skills needed to prepare them for the next step in their school journey. Our Early Childhood Program covers literacy, numeracy, information

and communication technology competence, critical and creative thinking, ethical understanding, personal and social competence and intercultural understanding. All of this is balanced with time for play and specialist lessons, including the Arts (Music, Drama and Visual Art), Physical Education and Christian Education. YEARS 4- 6 (GIRLS AND BOYS) As our students transition into Year 4, they are ready to take on the world around them. At this stage in their learning, we encourage them to achieve their personal best in a wide range of areas, not only in the core curriculum areas, but also in the Arts, Physical Education, Technology and Languages. Our students are able to participate in numerous academic competitions, clubs and Makerspace activities to stretch and enrich their developing minds. We recognise the importance of equipping students for the skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) for careers in the twenty first century. In these formative years, we broaden their study of STEM with Information Technology, Design Technology and Control Technology (Robotics). To see how Clayfield College can equip your child with the necessary skills to ignite their future, please join us at our Interactive Primary Program Open Morning on Tuesday 9 August at 8:45am. Contact the College for more information on 07 3262 0262 or visit our website to register at our website. Clayfield College 23 Gregory St, Clayfield P 3262 0262 www.clayfield.qld.edu.au

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Education AUSTR ALIAN TR ADE COLLEGE NOR TH BRISBANE

Skills start at school

No matter the technological, social or political changes of the future, our country will always need skilled and reliable tradespeople. Australian Trade College North Brisbane (ATCNB) is taking a unique approach to preparing students for their future career pathways and to be able to meet the future skills needs of our economy. As a Senior Vocational College, ATCNB provides Year 11 and 12 students with the opportunity to complete their Queensland Certificate of Education whilst simultaneously undertaking both practical and theoretical learning in a trade area of their choice. With trade study pathways available that include automotive, beauty, business, commercial cookery, electrotechnology, metal engineering and plumbing, ATCNB encourages students to begin pursuing their career goals whilst finishing their Year 12 studies.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE COMBINED ATCNB has implemented a unique annual schedule that ensures student learning opportunities in both senior curriculum studies and trade studies are maximised. ATCNB students undertake a schedule of both College attendance and industry engagement (work experience and school-based apprenticeships and traineeships) throughout Years 11 and 12. This combination of schoolbased and on-the-job learning ensures that students not only develop the theoretical and practical skills sought by employers and industry, but that they have the opportunity to apply them in real work environments in a supportive and encouraging setting. TRAINING THAT’S RECOGNISED Students who attend ATCNB undertake training and assessment towards nationally recognised qualifications, delivered by a Registered Training Organisation, during their time at the College. Typically, students work towards a Certificate II level qualification in their chosen area of trade study, and in addition all students are currently studying a Certificate II in Business and a Certificate II in Workplace Practices. Training and assessment is delivered by qualified and highly experienced trade trainers. Training is delivered under third party arrangements with Australian Trade Training College Ltd (RTO ID 31399).

OUR CAMPUS Located at Scarborough on the Redcliffe Peninsula, ATCNB’s campus includes on-site workshops and trade learning facilities that you would expect to see replicated in real industry settings. Our aim is to ensure students are prepared for the work environments that they will experience in their chosen career once they finish school.

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

EMPOWERING DECISIONS THROUGH EXPERIENCE Whilst ATCNB has traditionally catered specifically to Year 11 and 12 students, the value of our Cadet Program is becoming more widely recognised each year. The Cadet Program is a one semester program, facilitated annually by ATCNB and perfectly suited to those students who are in Year 10 and considering a future trade career. The Program provides participating students with the opportunity to try all of the College’s trade learning areas, and informing them first-hand what it’s like ‘on-the-job’ in each trade. This unique experience and equips students to make a more informed and educated choice on their Year 11 and 12 study pathway.

Education ORMISTON COLLEGE

Give them every opportunity Throughout the history of education, generations have never known the speed of change that has been experienced over the past decade. As technology continues to evolve, it is imperative that methods of teaching and learning progress, advance and redevelop. Reports such as ‘Tomorrow’s Digitally Enabled Workforce – Megatrends and scenarios for jobs and employment in Australia over the next 20 years’ highlight that it is more important than ever that schools are preparing students to be future ready. It is now imperative that transferable skills such as creativity, complex judgement, advanced reasoning, social interaction and emotional intelligence are embedded in teaching and learning practice if today’s students are to navigate tomorrow’s complex and ever changing career landscape. Ormiston College is proud to be a school that is acknowledged for its leadership and innovative educational programs, providing students with the competences and expertise required for success in the 21st century. Being Greater Brisbane’s first fully-fledged Microsoft Worldwide Showcase School, with four Microsoft Innovative Educator Experts on staff, places the College at the forefront of innovative teaching and learning, as reflected in our student outcomes. The Teaching and Learning Framework at Ormiston College acknowledges and supports 21CLD (21st Century Learning Design) and the emergence of Digital Literacy alongside Numeracy and Literacy skills, with these capabilities being basic requirements for academic success. Ormiston College understands how important preparing students for the future is and has adapted a new teaching pedagogy, fostering a learning culture with lifelong learning at the core of the model. Recently ranked fourth in a listing of best Academic Performing Secondary Schools in Brisbane by Better Education website and published by Families Magazine provides further testimony of the strength of the College’s teaching and learning programs. Students at Ormiston College are given every

opportunity to succeed. They receive constant encouragement from dedicated staff, enjoy a sense of belonging, work in an environment that is happy and secure, sharing an atmosphere where school spirit is strong and are offered stimulating student-driven programs on a spacious campus that offers state of the art facilities. As one of the top independent co-educational schools in Queensland, commonly measured by NAPLAN and OP scores, Ormiston College is the school choice for those parents wishing to provide the best opportunity for the future of their children. To experience innovative teaching and learning in action, visit the College on Saturday 13 August from 10am to 2pm, or contact the registrar for a personal tour. Telephone 3821 8999 www.ormistoncollege.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Local Clubs & Classes Directory

Clubs, Classes & Activities

around Greater Brisbane for adults and children aged 0 - 17. If you would like a listing for your club, class or activity in our next issue’s inclusive directory, contact us now! Email: Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Compiled by Regina Gleeson NS = Northside SS = Southside

CLASSES FOR ADULTS Hands On Brisbane (NS) Their arts and crafts workshops are conducted by some of Brisbane’s finest artisans to give you a hands on approach to learning your new skill. With many classes also providing the materials you need to start straight away, all you need to do is turn up and start creating! Workshops are held in Brisbane City at The Gardens Club, in the heart of the Brisbane City Botanic Garden.  3012 9606  www.handsonbrisbane.com Brisbane Sings (NS & SS) This site is a free community service which is building to be a comprehensive list of all singing groups in Brisbane and surrounding areas. It lists all types of singing groups including choirs, toning groups, barbershop, a cappella, sacred music, musical society, singing workshops and other singing groups - basically anywhere in this region where you can go to have a sing!  www.spectrumfireworks.com.au/brissings Flipside Circus (NS) Leave your dramas, inhibitions and spandex at the door and avoid crowded gym rooms and repetitive workouts. Achieve fitness goals in a supportive and encouraging environment. Learn circus tricks that will amaze your friends (and yourself!) All circus activities are scalable to suit your individual goals.  3352 7233 www.flipsidecircus.org.au Forum Communicators (NS & SS) Be a better speaker. Toss your speaking fears out the window and come along to Forum. You will improve your public speaking skills in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere, and even enjoy yourself. The WILL to become a confident speaker is all you need, the time to join is now.  3266 3521  www.forumcommunicators.asn.au Mad Dance House (NS & SS) Offering over 120 classes a week in a stack of different styles: Hip Hop, Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Popping, Locking, Tap, Hip Hop in Heels, Lyrical Hip Hop, Girly Style Street Jazz, Urban Contemporary, Commercial Jazz and fitness classes. No need to book- just rock up 10-15 mins before the start of your chosen class.  3210 6724  www.maddance.com.au Men’s Shed (NS & SS) An organisation that is accessible to all men and whose primary activity is the provision of a safe and friendly environment where men are able to work on meaningful projects at their own pace in their own time in the company of other men. A major objective is to advance the well-being and health of their male members. 1300 550 009  www.mensshed.org Ministry of Handmade (NS) They are passionate about handmade and teach traditional made-byhand skills with a modern twist!In a busy world, slow the pace with us for a bit… learn some new skills (or revisit an old one), refresh your spirit, make some new friends. 0414 467 405  www.ministryofhandmade.com.au Stork, Baby and You (SS) Experienced midwife of 34 years offers private, personalised education sessions on birth & parenting in the convenience of your home. Sue will travel from Byron Bay to Redcliffe. For 3+ hours she is able to discuss topics relating to your needs & wishes. She will also lend you a couple of dvd’s to look at after she leaves. Contact Sue Butler. 0411 854 443  www.antenatalclasses.com.au

The Actors Workshop (SS) Supplying nationally recognised training pathways to school leavers and mature age students seeking dedicated vocational training as a Film, Television and Theatre Actor.  3891 141 www.theactorsworkshop.com.au

Paediatric First Aid Courses Injury prevention and first aid instruction (NS & SS) Recommended for pregnant couples, parents, grandparents, babysitters and other carers of children, this 4.5hr programme includes an in depth injury prevention talk followed by practical paediatric first aid including CPR for babies and toddlers. Kidsafe QLD  3854 1829  www.kidsafeqld.com.au Kids First Aid (NS & SS) The only first aid courses delivered exclusively by experienced paramedics, designed to teach parents and caregivers how to respond calmly and confidently to 10 of the most common first aid emergencies situations. 1300 138 133 www.kidsfirstaid.com.au St John Ambulance Queensland (NS) This course is designed to meet the first aid needs of parents, guardians and members of the public who may be entrusted with the care of babies and children up to 12 years of age. This course provides the knowledge and skills to manage everyday emergency situations. 1300 360 455  www.stjohn.org.au

CLASSES FOR CHILDREN ARTS & CRAFT & COOKING Fox Blocks (NS) Fox Blocks is an innovative creative construction programme that uses a variety of materials such as Lego, Duplo, K’nex, and Fischertechnik, as well as everyday objects. There are 4 different age levels for children from 3.5 years to Grade 7. Each term has a different theme, and each class builds new proficiencies.  3855 1528  www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au Mum & Me (NS) Art classes – Subject. Pullenvale art studio, classes for children (Ages 5 to 12) and adults. School holiday programs, evening adult classes and art parties available. Delivered by an experienced art teacher, with unique programs that ignite your creativity within. All materials supplied.  www.artsubject.biz or call Teresa 0410 652 450 Tania’s Arthouse (SS) Professional studio on the bayside that provides weekly art classes for all ages, from Prep up to yr 12. Fun & creative activities in a purpose built environment. 0422 497 627  www.taniasarthouse.com ZoomArt for Kids (NS) Art classes for children in a fun and friendly environment. 6 different age levels from 2 yrs to Grade 12. Designed for the intentional development of the child’s skills, observations, thinking, and experiences in the visual arts.  3855 1528  www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au

Cooking Classes

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Come & Cook (NS) Looking for children’s fun activities? Why not try Come and Cook for a workshop where your kids can delve into the world of food and cooking. Based in

The Gap, they teach core cooking skills to small groups in a commercial-class kitchen. Led by a highly experienced teacher who owned a cooking business in London for 7 years. Benefits; fussy eaters, creative chefs, skills-based learning, building confidence, following recipe methods, cookbook and dishes to take away. After-school and school holiday workshops available for 8-12 years and 13+ years  0488 249 595  www.comeandcook.com.au

In My Own Kitchen

(NS) Is there a budding chef in your kitchen? With 15 years of professional cooking under her belt, Chef Luisa is bringing her talent, joy and passion for cooking to the young and young at heart. In My Own Kitchen Jnr is designed to teach kitchen confidence and fun to children from 6-15. The cooking classes are taught by a professional chef and are designed to be easy and safe, one-on-one or in groups. Classes can be held in your own kitchen or in a professional classroom kitchen in Brisbane North. The classes are all hands on, catering to all tastes, allergies and intolerances where required. Each lesson aims to bring food from the garden to the table, educating kids about how their food grows, how to make delicious recipes from fresh ingredients and have all sorts of fun whilst chopping, stirring and baking! Your child’s delight as they eat the food they cooked themselves is golden – and the future rewards for you are limitless!  0423 450 363  www.inmyownkitchen.com Cutie Pies Baking School (SS) Does your little one love to be creative in the kitchen? Cutie Pies Baking School is where your child can mix, knead, roll, ice and decorate his or her own yummy creations! Have all the fun and leave the mess! 0426 967 055 www.cutiepiesbakingschool.com

LANGUAGE & BABY DEVELOPMENT Calm Bubs Infant Massage (SS) delivers the 'First Touch Program' to parents of babies from birth to 12 months. The Program consists of 5 sessions each lasting 1 - 1 1/2 hours a week. Classes are limited to 8 families so parents and carers receive In depth one-on-one attention from a fully qualified instructor.  0407 031 746  www.calmbubsinfantmassage.com.au Flipside Circus (NS) Flipside circus offers classes for people aged 1 and up! Their Wriggles and Giggles classes introduce toddlers and parents to the world of circus through fun, interactive workshops designed to improve gross and fine motor skills, social development and physical abilities.  3352 7233 www.flipsidecircus.org.au LCF Fun Languages (SS) Designed over 25 years, their methodology teaches French, Spanish, Mandarin, Italian, English and German with a fun

Local Clubs & Classes Directory and active approach that will get your child using the language quickly and naturally. 1300 707 288  www.lcfclubs.com.au

the fabulous things you can do. 9am to 12pm for Beginners and those very new to circus.  3352 7233 www.flipsidecircus.org.au

TumbleTastics (NS & SS) offers fun, educational fitness and development classes for babies from birth to children aged 7 years. Running for 50 minutes, TumbleTastics include age appropriate activities to assist all aspects of a child’s physical, social, emotional, cognitive and language development, in preparation for school readiness. Now open at Hawthorne and Everton Hills. www.tumbletastics.com.au Mention Families Magazine for your FREE Trial Class by calling Hawthorne 3399 2004 & Everton Hills 3355 1550.

Inflatable World (NS) It’s all about having fun, so bring the whole family and bounce on in to Inflatable World. It’s not just for the kids.  3266 5699 www.inflatableworldoz.com/qld

Sign Language Baby Sensory Hawthorne (SS) They use a combination of original and traditional songs and rhymes to develop early communication skills and you will always remember the moment your baby first uses the signs of their Say Hello song which is played at the beginning of each Baby Sensory class.  3399 2004 www.babysensory.com.au Deaf Services Queensland (SS) Baby Sign is designed for parents to learn basic Auslan key word signs for babies and children who are hearing or deaf, between 2 mths and 5 yrs. Infants naturally use smiling, cooing, crying and movement to communicate their needs/feelings so it is common for babies to use their hands to communicate long before they can speak.  3892 8500 www.deafservicesqld.org.au

ACTIVITY CENTRES Bounce Inc (SS) They believe everyone wants to fly though the air and bounce off the walls. So they have created Bounce Inc – a massive indoor trampoline universe packed with lots of high octane, extreme, fun things to do. 1300 000 540  www.bounceinc.com.au Bay Play (SS) Bay Play Cleveland is an Australiana themed, indoor play centre, with a difference. No other play centre will offer you the opportunity to interact and play with your children the way Bay Play Cleveland does. Catering for ages 6 months 16 yrs (and beyond!) their array of activities, events and attractions is fun for the whole family.  3821 7772  www.bayplaycleveland.com.au Chipmunks Playland & Café (NS & SS) Visit Chipmunks for unlimited play for kids aged 0 – 11 years old and relax over a coffee or lunch with friends and family at their café in one of their 3 Brisbane locations. They feature state of the art equipment and are fully air-conditioned, clean and comfortable. They also have party facilities. www.chipmunks.com.au Crank Indoor Climbing - Macgregor (SS) The largest indoor kids climbing area in Brisbane. Great for your next kid’s party (5yrs+). Filled with colourful creative fun climbs, a cargo net, a slackline and a mini caving tunnel. At $20 for 2 hours (min.10 kids) it is great value (no climbing experience is necessary as one of their friendly staff will show you the ropes). For the older kids they also have after school classes in both rock climbing and Parkour. With the best instructors in Brisbane they will be trained safely to overcome any obstacle.  brisbaneclimbing@gmail.com Flip Out (NS) It’s a flipping fun activity that is taking the world by storm. And now it has come to Strathpine. This trampoline arena includes a main arena, mini arena (under 10s), slam time (basketball), wall runners, foam pit & Olympic trampolines, mini foam pit, inflatable (under 5s), party rooms and a café.  3205 999 www.flipout.net.au/flip-out-indoor-trampolinearena-strathpine Flipside Circus (NS) Go to Flipside Circus on Sundays to play, train and amaze! Sunday Circus is Flipside’s open space to explore the different circus apparatus they have, play with your friends, learn new tricks and amaze yourself and others with

MUSIC

Lollipop’s Playland & Café (NS &SS) Are great kids party venues or giving kids a treat while parents relax over a cup of coffee and a treat from their quality cafe. Their indoor play centres are safe and secure where kids can have hours of fun climbing, sliding, jumping and spinning. 4 Brisbane locations. www.lollipopsplayland.com.au Rainbow City Children’s Playcentre & Cafe (SS) Rainbow City offers unique services especially for children under 8 years old. Not only do they offer soft play and big play structures, but they also offer young children a place to have fun – they have their imaginative and innovative play in mind. Air conditioned and free Wi-Fi.  3290 0434  www.rainbowcplaycentre.com.au Skyzone Indoor Trampoline Park (SS) Sky Zone Macgregor isn’t just any indoor trampoline park. It is hundreds of trampolines, connected to form a single massive trampoline that literally allows you to jump off the walls. And if that’s not enough excitement for you Sky Zone Macgregor has Skyland - a 3 storey laser tag arena that holds up to 40 players battling it out in a cloud-filled wonderland. That’s right, you read correctly. A trampoline park with laser tag! So what are you waiting for? 13 75 99 www.skyzone.com.au Tiddlywinks Dance & Play Café (NS) Tiddlywinks Dance and Play Cafe is a family owned and operated entertainment venue, providing a unique dance and play experience for children up to 11 years old. They also have dance programmes and party facilities.  3266 8484 www.tiddlywinks.com.au

Gymboree (NS & SS) Award winning children’s Play & Learn Gym, Music & Art classes for 0-5yrs. Designed by experts, the age-appropriate activities help develop the cognitive, physical & social skills of children as they play. Programs are also recognized for their unique approach to parent involvement which encourages participation in and understanding of each child’s development. Free trial available.  3878 2468 www.gymboree.com.au Kindermusik at Flying Fox Studios (NS) Music and movement classes from newborn to 7 yrs. Kindermusik classes encourage babies & children to develop language, social, emotional, & physical skills as well—all in the context of joyful, musically rich play!  3855 1528 www.flyingfoxstudios.com.au Neighbourhood Crèche (NS) A creative community business offering affordable early childhood classes and care for children aged 0-6. YMM: Yoga, Massage and Music - A lovely bonding 45 minute sensory class for mums with newborns to 8 month old babies. (currently a National award nominee) Bubs music and movement classes for toddlers under 2: Dance, parachutes, bubbles puppets & fun. Tots Music: - Fun and educational music classes for 2-4 year old children. Keyboard Kids/Recorder Rock Stars: Small group classes of either Keyboard or Recorders for children aged 4-6 years. A fun after school activity. Crèche Casual Child Care: Need a break or have things to do? drop your child off to the super fun and educational Crèche on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s for occasional care when you need it. CCB approved. 0423 032 591  www.neighbourhoodcreche.com.au  Info@neighbourhoodcreche.com.au Queensland Show Choir (NS & SS) With programs for babies up to adults, QSC provides quality music education and choral experiences for the whole family. The benefits of early childhood music can be seen in many areas from language development to social skills, not to mention it’s great fun!  3257 4905  www.queenslandshowchoir.com.au

Velocity Park (NS) Challenge gravity, challenge your mates and challenge yourself to reach higher. Planning a party? Corporate Event? School Group activity? Or are your kids bouncing off the walls?? Dodgeball, Slamball, Free Bounce, Wall Climbing, Trick Foam Pit and more...There’s something for everyone at Velocity Park!  3482 4344 www.velocitypark.com.au

Wee Make Music (NS & SS) Classes are essential early development sessions where age appropriate activities using beat, rhythm, language and movement empower a love of music and learning in babies through pre-prep age children. So much fun and so beneficial for general cognitive, musical and social development. Free visit class for all. Bulimba, New Farm, Wilston. 0434 357 764 www.weemakemusic.com.au

We Play (SS) are the best family fun centres in Australia, offering entertainment, games and activities for children of all ages, facilities for corporate events and parties for children and adults alike. Our locations offer a huge soft play structure, exciting ball and laser games, mini-golf, ride-on cars and a gourmet cafe, all in a fully airconditioned, clean and safe environment.  www.weplay4fun.com.au Xtreme Indoor Trampoline Centre (SS) The ceiling really is the limit at Xtreme and with dedicated adventure zones throughout the trampoline arena. Practice your flips and tricks on their longest tramp and land in a cushion of air. Shoot to new heights on three massive Olympic trampolines. Try out their newest radical sport called ‘Jump and Bump’; use your bubble suit to bump your opponents out of the way and make it to the other side. Be quick on your feet and jump into a Dodge Ball game. Even though their trampoline arena is seriously Xtreme they also cater for Mini Jumpers who are aged 3-5. 1300 586 787 www.xtremetrampoline.com.au

Young Conservatorium (NS & SS) Operating under Open Conservatorium Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, this is the program of choice for families seeking a pedagogically sound music education. Positions are available in Early Childhood Music, Young Beginner, Developing Musician and Senior Tuition in classical /contemporary; Wind, String, Chamber, Vocal, Jazz and Symphonic Ensembles; and composition. www.griffith.edu.au/music/young-conservatorium

SPORTS & EXERCISE Australian Parkour Association (NS & SS) A philosophy and method of movement through any environment with speed and efficiency. The concept is to overcome all physical and mental obstacles in your path by using your body and mind to run, climb, jump and vault. 1800 759 015 www.brisbaneparkour.com.au Baseball Queensland (NS & SS) For boys and girls of all ages. Club competitions fall into the following age groups: Under 8 MighTee ball, U10 Rookie Ball, Little League (U12), Baseball - U14, U16 and U18.  3876 2222 www.qld.baseball.com.au continued on page 26

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Local Clubs & Classes Directory continued from page 25

SPORTS & EXERCISE

Brisbane Basketball (NS & SS) Basketball is a noncontact sport and provides a safe and enjoyable opportunity for players of all age groups.  3371 020  www.brisbane.basketball.net.au

Life Stream (NS & SS) Facilitates a wide range of opportunities specifically in South East Queensland for people with an intellectual disability to participate, develop skills and be active members of their communities. Life Stream believes that through participation in community activities, recreation, leisure & sport and having friendships and responsibilities, people develop skills and lead healthy, active and meaningful lives.  3394 4399  www.lifestream.org.au

Brisbane Martial Arts (NS & SS) Whether Taekwondo, or Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is your preferred martial art, if you’re looking to start martial arts training, or take your training to the next level, there’s only one place to go, the home of martial arts in Brisbane. 1300 303 583 www.brisbanemartialarts.com.au Dipadees (NS) From their beautiful Baby Bubble Classes through to squads their professional teachers make learning fun while developing correct stroke technique and developing a lifelong love of water. Concentrating is easier in the comfort of their heated, indoor pool and 25 meter lanes develop skills over distance as children progress. What better way to help fitness and coordination needed for swimming than by joining their other fitness activities. Kids LOVE their TumbleTastics Kind Gym program, embracing all aspects of development and with new and exciting themes kids are always engaged while they learn. Dipadees Dance - learn to dance without the fuss of rehearsals and concerts. Just plain and simple learn to dance well.  3355 1550  www.dipadees.com

First Swing Golf (NS & SS)

Little Athletics Queensland (NS & SS) A uniquely Australian sport for children 5-16 years. Based upon the sport of athletics (track & field) the events are specially modified to suit the ages and abilities of children. A wide range of running, jumping, throwing and walking events is conducted.  3255 9436 www.qlaa.asn.au Netball Queensland (NS & SS) For young children interested in playing netball for the first time, there is NetSetGo! This program is for children (girls and boys) aged 5-10 and is designed for teaching the basics of netball while fostering fun and friendship in a team environment.  3848 6330 www.netballq.org.au PCYC (NS & SS) Gym fun, kids dance, tiny tots, cheerleading, boxercise, teen yoga karate, tumble and stunt, glee club, circuit and gymnastics is just some of the activities at PCYCs. Please contact your local club to see what is on offer for you and your children.  3909 9555 www.pcyc.org.au Queensland Cricket (NS & SS) These days, cricket offers some new and exciting formats for kids that won’t take up your whole weekend. Kids can take part in the Milo in2Cricket program, a fun way to get a taste of the sport. As their skills develop, they can transition into Milo T20 Blast and on to club cricket to continue a lifelong connection with the game.  3292 3100 www.qldcricket.com.au

is grassroots golf for all ages (starting at 3 years) and all abilities - beginners are their specialty. Their programs are the perfect mix of fun, physical activity, and instruction all in an inclusive environment teaching the basic golf FUNdamentals along with rules and etiquette using key words, phrases and through game based activities. Sessions run for 45 minutes in blocks of 6-10 week terms. They currently run sessions in MacGregor, Windaroo & Loganholme with new locations added regularly. All Programs are developed and delivered by Australian PGA Professional coaches. “Golf Begins Here”

Ready Steady Go Kids

is Australia’s most reputable multi-sport and exercise program for pre-schoolers (aged 2.5-6 years). They have been operating since 2004 and currently run classes at Oxley, Tennyson, Bray Park and North Lakes with new classes added regularly. It is a physio-designed program teaching children the fundamentals of 10 different sports in a fun, non-competitive, team-based environment. Classes are 45 minutes covering 5 sports per term. The program has a structure that is repeated each week so children become familiar with the routine. Ready Steady Go Kids seeks to develop lifelong passion for physical activity and sport.  www.readysteadygokids.com.au  1300 766 892

0432 740 073 www.firstswing.com.au Flipside Circus (NS) offer a wide range of classes from beginners to experienced from ages 0 - 100. There is something fun and suitable for every age and every ability. The classes are fast moving and full of action – never a moment to spare. Go and learn all the skills of the circus including tissu, static trapeze, lyra, juggling, hoops, acro balance and tumbling.  07 3352 7233  www.flipsidecircus.org.au Gymnastics Queensland (NS & SS) Gymnastics is one of the most fundamental and exciting of all physical activities. Basic gymnastic skills develop attributes that are perfect stepping stones for other sports, activities and life in general. 07 3036 5600  www.gymqld.org.au Hockey Queensland (NS & SS) Hockey is a team sport, children learn the value of working with others. They figure out how to rely on teammates and understand that cooperation is key to success.  3399 6577  www.hockeyqld.com.au Junior Golf Queensland (NS & SS) Golf is a great game for juniors/students/children as it is a healthy game that one can play for their whole life. Golf has special qualities that can have powerful and lasting impacts on young people’s self-image, personal development and confidence.  3252 8155  www.juniorgolfqueensland.org.au

Rugbytots (NS & SS) is a specifically designed play program for children aged 2 to 7 using the multiple skills of both rugby codes to create a fun and enjoyable environment whilst also developing social and psychological skills Divided into three age groups, Rugbytots combines the key aspects of team sports with a fun first interactive approach.  www.rugbytots.com.au 0404 343 028 Tennis Queensland (NS & SS) Tennis Queensland Registration is automatically included when you join your local affiliated club as a member. This will also give you access to all the exclusive benefits that the club chooses to offer. Find a club near you.  3120 7900 www.tennis.com.au YMCA Bowen Hills caters for all ages and abilities. From walking to adults they deliver classes designed to maximise fitness, fun and gymnastics skills. They offer competitive MAG and WAG up to Level 8. Their passionate and experienced coaches ensure everyone has the opportunity to reach their full

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

potential.  3851 8800  www.ymcabrisbane.org YMCA Acacia Ridge is a specialist gymnastic centre focussed on giving your child the best possible gymnastic experience. From 10 months to teens we cater for beginners and up to Level 7. Our friendly and experienced coaches ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.  3276 7793 www.ymcabrisbane.org YMCA Enoggera is a specialist gymnastic centre focussed on giving your child the best possible gymnastic experience. From 3 years to teens their friendly and experienced coaches ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.  3355 7176 www.ymcabrisbane.org YMCA Jamboree Heights caters for all ages and abilities. From walking to adults they deliver classes designed to maximise fitness, fun and gymnastics skills. They offer competitive MAG and WAG up to Level 8. Their passionate and experienced coaches ensure everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. 3376 4266 www.ymcabrisbane.org YMCA Victoria Point caters for all ages and abilities. From walking to adults they deliver classes designed to maximise fitness, fun and gymnastics skills. They offer competitive MAG and WAG up to Level 8. Their passionate and experienced coaches ensure everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. 3820 5300 www.ymcabrisbane.org

Horseriding Cherbon Waters (SS) Cherbon Waters’ facilities include a new fully lit 60m x 20 indoor arena (with an undercover viewing area), riding trails, round yards, stabling area, wash bays, safe fully-electrified paddocks. 0417 704 671 www.cherbonwaters.com.au Dalson Park Indoor Equestrian Centre (SS) Horse riding lessons are well priced and cover the use of Dalson Park ponies, tacked up by capable stable hands; the use of arenas, tack, saddles, helmet and boots and expert and encouraging instruction. 0448 034 514 www.dalsonpark.com.au Gumnuts (SS) Gumnuts is a 140 acre horse farm located in the Biddaddaba Valley. They offer a farm stay experience as well as horseriding, which is their primary focus. They have expanded to include day & ½ day riding tours operating from both the Gold Coast and Brisbane.  5543 0191 www.gumnutsfarm.com.au Heritage Riding (SS) It does not matter if you are a “first timer” or you are a current Junior Rider wanting to gain more competitive skills in Dressage or Jumping. They have a Horse/Pony and Qualified Instructor that will suit your needs, and give you a safe, fun, and enjoyable experience  3206 3951 www.heritageriding.com.au Indarra Equestrian Centre (SS) provides a safe riding environment with qualified, professional staff so you can enjoy your love of horses. You can choose either group (max 4 riders) or private lessons. Indarra also hold fun filled day and overnight camps during each school holidays 0409 475 040 www.indarraequestrian.com.au Kiah Park (SS) Offers 7 day horse riding farm stays for children ages 6yrs - teens every school holidays. Includes full accommodation and each child is given their own pony/horse to love, care for and ride twice a day. Includes full accommodation, arena lessons, horse care – grooming & tacking up, trail rides and gymkhana. Fun night activities include night walk, talent show, camp fire with stories and marshmallow roasting, bingo and movie night.  07 5486 6166 www.kiahpark.com.au Nag Nanny (SS) Nag Nanny & Equine Resolutions is passionate about teaching all aspects of looking after horses. Children will not turn up to a horse that is saddled and ready to go, do their lesson and leave. They will teach them all about getting to know a horse. www.nagnanny.vpweb.com.au Riverside Equestrian Centre (SS) Riverside Equestrian Centre is located at Moggill in a park-like setting on the banks of the Brisbane River. It is a short drive from Brisbane City. They offer lessons for groups and single riders from junior to senior

Local Clubs & Classes Directory riders. Each lesson runs for 2 hours instead of the normal 45mins. 07 3202 6526 www.riversideequestriancentre.com.au Slickers Horse Riding (NS) Their lessons are conducted in either an enclosed yard or out on one of their trails depending on which the rider requires.  3285 1444  www.slickershorseriding.com Tamborine Mountain Trail Rides (SS) A 300 acre farm, Tamborine Mountain Trail Rides has ponies available for parties, as well as trail rides from a half hour through to whole day trips, and they offer lessons, too. 0434 011 826 www.horseridingqld.com Trevena Glen Farm (SS)Trevena Glen Farm is only a 45 minute drive from Brisbane. They provide a variety of farm experiences for your Brisbane Family.They also provide riding lessons that cover everything from learning to ride to all aspects of looking after a horse. So you can book in to have a very real horse experience, before you commit to buying a horse!  3289 4257 www.grookea.odoo.com Wattle Creek Riding School (NS) At Wattle Creek, they specialise in one on one lessons. This gives 100% of the Coach’s attention to the rider. This allows the experienced and inexperienced to work at their optimum pace. No riding experience is needed to start as they teach from the first riding lesson to the highly experienced rider.  3300 6422 www.wattlecreekridingschool.com.au Windsong Equestrian Park (SS) Their coaches conduct private lessons by appointment, in an all-weather surface ProRide arena. Their coaches are qualified level one instructors and are happy to cater for beginners or higher skill levels of all ages. www.windsongpark.com

Swimming Aquatic Achievers Swim Schools (NS & SS) specialize in teaching babies through to stroke correction and squads. Their innovative SOLO-1 teaching program advances skills in easy, achievable progressions. The pinnacle of their SOLO-1 program is for children to swim One Kilometre unassisted. www.aquaticachievers.com.au Dipadees (NS) The have four programs for babies from 4 months to children aged 18 years. 07 3355 1550  www.dipadees.com Grace Swimming (NS) a swimming environment that is friendly and family-oriented. Situated at Grace Lutheran College, this state-of-the-art swimming facility boasts experienced and renowned swimming instructors that cater for all swimming levels.  3204 2725 www.graceswim.org.au North Lakes Aquatic Centre (NS) Concentrates in infant water familiarization, safety and personal development. Their swim program in conjunction with the Royal Life Saving Society caters for children from 6 mths through to Junior Squads. Their instructors pride themselves on their wealth of experience, understanding and enthusiasm.  3886 2022  www.northlakesac.com.au northlakes@belgravialeisure.com.au Sam Riley Swim Schools (NS & SS) Dedicated, qualified and experienced instructors know the importance of balancing the professionalism required to teach your child to swim, whilst maintaining an element of enjoyment, so your child has fun while learning.  3050 7341 www.samrileyswimschools.com Shapland Swim Schools (NS & SS) Learn to swim in small classes of three that give children more one-on-one attention. With free make-up lessons and easy online bookings, Shapland Swim Schools makes learning to swim easy and fun! Baby classes available from 3 months of age. www.shapland.com.au

Yoga Brisbane Yoga Space (NS & SS) An invaluable tool of fun, learning, health and growth for kids and teens. Through yoga, young people can have fun while developing health, fitness and self-confidence. 0430 158 826 www.brisbaneyogaspace.com.au

Calm For Kids Relaxation Classes (NS & SS) Calm for Kids hold yoga based relaxation classes for children throughout Australia. The Calm for Kids classes consist of balance, concentration and co-ordination exercises, breathing exercises and games, peer massage, children’s relaxation and visualisations and positive affirmations.  3343 3285 www.calmforkids.com.au

Dance

Inna Bliss Yoga Studios (SS) Bliss kids yoga classes are a fantastic way for your child to enjoy the many benefits of yoga in fun and friendly environment. The instructor guides the children through an interactive & themed practice of song, movement, yoga poses, creativity, story-telling and relaxation.  3162 2188 www.innablissyoga.com.au

Brisbane Academy of Dance (NS) A wide range of qualified teachers in all areas of dance. An energetic approach to teaching encourages students to achieve their personal best.  3356 5880  www.brisbaneacademyofdance.com.au

Attitude Dance Academy (NS) Attitude Dance Academy offers a safe, fun, learning environment where your child can study a variety of dance styles from highly experienced, professionally trained instructor  3349 0391 www.attitudedanceacademy.com.au

FILM & TV, THEATRE & PERFORMING ARTS Activate Entertainment (NS) Offers a variety of educational and fun programs in filmmaking and media arts. Learn how to produce, direct and edit ‘out of this world’ projects using iPads, GoPro’s, Green Screen and Drones. Activate Entertainment gets young people being both active and creative with new technologies. Encourages social engagement and creative problem solving whilst developing essential skills for tomorrow’s world. Programs designed for 8 - 17yrs (Primary & Secondary). 0423 762 096 Brisbane Arts Theatre (NS) Their training enhances children’s performance skills and stagecraft knowledge with acting techniques, improvisation, voice (including singing – solo, chorus and harmonies) and movement training (theatre, dance and mime).  3369 2344  www.collegetheatrepractice.com.au Flipside Circus (NS) Performance Program Flipside Circus Trainers support students in every step of the way ensuring each student is ready as they take the steps from performing in small in-house shows to roaming performances at fetes and festivals to touring large scale performing works in major festivals!  3352 7233  www.flipsidecircus.org.au Helen O’Grady Drama Academy (NS & SS) They help children develop essential life skills and explore their creative side through developmental drama programs while providing them with the necessary life skills to prepare them for life after school. Helen O’Grady is the world’s foremost provider of developmental drama programs for children aged between 3 and 17 years of age in over 25 countries worldwide. 1300 647 239 www. helenogrady.com.au Stagecraft Acting School (NS & SS) Focus is on helping kids become happy, confident and successful people not just successful actors. They pride themselves in teaching kids the skills they need to become professional actors in the real world by making learning fun. 0417 118 006  www.actingacademy.com.au

Kick Dance (SS) Structured programs in dance run by professional teachers with excellent qualifications and extensive industry experience. Classes which facilitate enjoyment, confidence, develop students at a very high technical level and allow a ‘kick’ start into the performing arts. Classical Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Irish Dancing, Creative Movement for tiny tots. 0414 308 248 www.kickdance.com.au Kinderballet (NS & SS) An Imaginative and creative introduction to Classical Ballet for toddler and pre-schoolers. They offer ‘Mummy & Me’ classes for 2 - 3 1/2 year old, ‘Tots’ classes for 3 1/2 - 5 year olds and ‘Kiddies’ classes for 4 - 5 year olds. 1300 606 949 www.kinderballet.com.au Movements Academy of Dance (NS) A wellestablished, friendly, family based studio that believes in teaching students to be all that they can be. They handpick their teachers who are qualified, encouraging & inspiring so that every student can have the very best dance education possible. 07 3886 4098 www.movementsdance.com.au Seriously Dance (SS) They truly believe their philosophy of respecting each student for their individuality & challenging each student to obtain personal excellence. 0416 477 703 www.seriouslydance.com

HEALTH, WELLBEING AND SCHOOL SUPPORT ABC Reading Eggs (For ages 3-13) Join over 3.4 million users worldwide to teach your child to read with ABC Reading Eggs, the multi-award winning online reading program that makes learning to read fun. www.readingeggs.com.au/fam Get Real International (SS) Get Real has been working with young people , carers and industry professionals for 10 years. Using pioneering process work and techniques they’ve changed the way young people live, engage and lead in their communities. 3388 1207  0402 556 711 www.getrealinternational.com

The TV Training Academy (NS) has designed a unique One Day Kids TV Presenter Workshop for ages 10 to 15yrs. Filmed in a studio and on camera with some of the industries finest trainers, TV presenters and directors, this is a one-day workshop kids love! It is intense, fun, and provides key skills to be used on camera while helping personal presentation and improving communication skills. During the day your on camera performance is recorded to provide you with the opportunity to have your own professionally edited audition/experience showreel with titles, graphics and music. Places are limited. Book today!  wwww.tvtraining.com.au/kidstv

Elite Dancers (NS) Their many different classes are structured to suit the needs of every dancer, whether you want to dance for a career or for fun and fitness. We have classes for ages 3 and above on a registered or casual basis. 0427 999 909 www.elitedancers.com.au

Kip McGrath Education Centre (NS & SS) See your child really improve in maths and English. Qualified teachers create individual tutoring programs for your child, using proven Kip McGrath methods of tuition. Maths, English, Reading, Spelling & Comprehension. www.kipmcgrath.com.au Kumon (NS & SS) The Kumon Method is an individualised learning method. The starting point for each Kumon student is determined individually. Students start with the level where they can attain a perfect score by studying on their own. 1800 458 666 www.au.kumonglobal.com Unlocking Your Life (NS) What STOPS YOU from living your life to the fullest? Your Emotions do… Their workshops unlock what holds you back from living fully, letting go of the blocks that restrain you and building stronger ones where you want/need them.  0421 047 34 www.unlockingyourlife.com.au

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

#FamiliesMagFun

FAMILIES FUN

Listings for everyone in every family!

To promote your local family friendly event including school fetes and fairs, community groups, get-togethers and local festivals in the next ‘Families Fun’ listings (Oct/Nov 2016) send your entry by 5pm on Friday 2 September 2016. Email Regina – Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check the details of the events listed before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

AUGUST Throughout Aug/Sep Measure Island, South Brisbane This is not your usual island: on Measure Island every step takes you to a new puzzle or exhibit waiting to be explored. Sciencentre 9.30am – 5pm daily. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/measure-islandsouth-brisbane Throughout Aug/Sep Reel Bubs@Dendy, Portside REEL BUBS a program exclusively for parents and carers with children. These screenings are tailored to meet their needs and includes the availability of night lights (on request) and sound levels that suit the parent/carer and child. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/reel-bubsdendy-portside Until Sat 10 Sep The Tale of Peter Rabbit, Petrie Terrace The perfect show for the littlies! This delightful and timeless story comes to life through a wonderful piece of theatre, made especially for the little ones. Brisbane Arts Theatre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/the-taleof-peter-rabbit-petrie-terrace

Until Sun 9 Oct Dinosaur Discovery: Lost Creatures of the Cretaceous, South Brisbane Featuring more than 20 animated, life-size dinosaur models, including the fearsome T-Rex, and Queensland’s very own Muttaburrasaurus, Dinosaur Discovery: Lost Creatures of the Cretaceous will transport you back millions of years to when dinosaurs ruled the earth. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/events/dinosaur-discovery-lost-creaturescretaceous-south-brisbane Fri 29 Jul – Sun 14 Aug Wicked, Redcliffe WICKED tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two girls who first meet as sorcery students at Shiz University: the blonde and very popular Glinda and a misunderstood green girl named Elphaba. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ events/wicked-redcliffe Fri 5 - Sun 14 Aug Ekka, Bowen Hills Held over ten full days, Ekka showcases life and achievements in the Sunshine State, bringing visitors from all across Queensland and Australia to the heart of Brisbane. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/ekka-bowen-hills

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

Sat 6 Aug HIPPO! HIPPO! A Big New Musical Adventure, Cleveland HIPPO! HIPPO! A Big New Musical Adventure! The classic tale about one of the largest and most famous imaginary friends ever is brought to life on stage! 10.30am and 1.00pm. Redlands Performing Arts Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/hippohippo-a-big-new-musical-adventure-cleveland Sat 6 Aug Moggill State School MOGGANZA, Moggill There will be attractions such as rides, novelties, food, entertainment and community group involvement. There will be fireworks in the evening. 11am – 7pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/moggill-stateschool-mogganza-moggill Sat 6 Aug Middle Park State School International Fete, Middle Park The fete highlights include the Photo booth, art gallery, pony rides, side show alley, International Foods and International stage performances plus their very own school talent. Markets will be held 11am to 4pm. Rides 12 noon to 5pm. Reptile display form 11am to 3pm. Fireworks at 7pm. 10am – 7pm. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/events/middle-park-stateschool-fete-middle-park

#FamiliesMagFun Sat 6 Aug Movies in the Park, Manly Take your picnic blanket and settle in for an hour of classic movie themes and overtures with Bayside Brass prior to the screening of a family movie. Food available from market stalls from 4pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/movies-inthe-park-manly Sat 6 & 13, Sun 7 & 14 Aug Create With Clay, Ipswich Go to Create with Clay to make a clay work of your very own to take home – no need for a kiln, just dry in the sun! Drop in between 10am – 4pm. Ipswich Art Gallery. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/events/create-with-clay-ipswich Sat 6 – Sun 28 Aug Parks Alive, Various Parks Alive comes alive with gardening experts and celebrities, demonstrations, have a go sessions, plant information and advice, kids’ activities, guided walks, music, displays and gardening societies. There’s something for the whole family to enjoy. 6th & 7th Aug – Roma Street Parklands, 14th Aug – South Bank Parklands & City Botanic Gardens, 28th Aug – Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Mt Coot-tha. www.parksalive.com.au Sun 7 Aug Mt Carmel Community Fete, Coorparoo They will have nine rides and entertainment for the whole family plus so much more. 9am – 4pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/mt-carmelcommunity-fete-coorparoo Sun 7 Aug What’s Cooking in the Gardens? Redcliffe This much loved event celebrates the great outdoors with food, wine, gardening gurus, cooking demonstrations, workshops and so much more. Get the kids painting, potting, baking and making at the many fun workshops on offer - there's something for everyone. Redcliffe Botanic Gardens. 9am – 3pm. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/events/whats-cooking-in-the-gardens-redcliffeWed 10 Aug Ekka Fun Day - Grand Avenue S.S Forest Lake With over 15 ride attractions, licensed showbags, Animal Farm, food stalls inc Potato Twister, Mr America Hotdogs & Fries, The Hangi Chef, Sensational Slushees and more, there is no entry fee, ride passes available on the day. 10am – 3pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/ ekka-fun-day-grand-avenue-s-s-forest-lake

Sat 13 – Thu 21 Aug Science on Track – National Science Week, Ipswich There is so much to do at the Workshops Rail Museum during Science Week. You can test your skills and explore how science is used in everyday life in the Science Station Zone, build and test your own creations in the Forces, Motion and Movement Laboratory. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/science-on-track Sun 14 Aug Japanese Cultural Day, Mount Coot-tha Celebrate Japan with traditional Japanese music, tea ceremony, calligraphy and ikebana as well as performances of Taiko drumming, Koto and Japanese dance. Brisbane Botanic Gardens. 11am – 3pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/japanesecultural-day-brisbane Mon 15 Aug Cupcake Day for the RSPCA Fight animal cruelty with the power of cupcakes! Cupcake Day for the RSPCA is all about baking, eating and, most importantly, fundraising for animals in need. www.familiesmagazine. com.au/events/cupcake-day-for-the-RSPCA-various Sat 20 Aug India Day Fair @ Roma Street Parklands Enjoy a day filled with food, fun, stalls, Bollywood music and dance, fireworks plus lots more!!! FREE ENTRY! 10.30am – 8.30pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ events/India-Day-Festival Sat 20 Aug Strawberry Festival, Sandstone Point Family Fun Day | Farm Fresh Strawberry Stalls | Live Music & Entertainment and so much more! 11am – 8pm. Sandstone Point Hotel. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ events/strawberry-festival-sandstone-pointSun 21 Aug St Dympna’s Fair, Aspley St Dympna's Fair is back with plenty of rides, food, an awesome second hand book stall, raffles, market stalls, performances and craft. 10am – 3pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/ st-dympnas-fair-aspleyTue 23 – Sun 28 Aug Shadowland, South Bank Audiences will be mesmerised as human bodies transform themselves into faces, cars, buildings transporting the audience into the Shadowland. Bookings Essential. QPAC. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/events/shadowland-south-bank

Sat 27 Aug Pine Fun Fair, Arana Hills Free entry to join in the fun including Jumping castles, 10 Pin Bowling, Photo Parlour, Pre-Loved Treasures, Raffle, Sausage Sizzle, Drinks & Cake Stall. There will be lots of free activities too - a great family day out! Pine Community School. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/events/pine-fun-fair-arana-hills Sat 27 & Sun 28 Aug Redcliffe KiteFest, Redcliffe Families will get swept away in the fun, colour and excitement of the annual Redcliffe KiteFest where kites of all shapes and sizes fill the sky. Get ready for both Minions and Marvel LIVE on stage. KiteFest Kidz returns with a huge array of free activities. The amazing Bubble Nation and famous Fizzics science show will leave you amazed. Tickets available at the gate. www.familiesmagazine.com. au/events/redcliffe-kitefest-redcliffe Sun 28 Aug Family Fun Day, Portside Head to Dendy at Portside to see ‘The Secret Life of Pets’ Local Premiere Screening. 10am Activities, 11am Film. All tickets $10. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/family-fun-dayportside Sun 28 Aug Serbian Culture Festival, Dutton Park Discover the heart of Serbia in Brisbane. Enjoy a day of traditional Serbian music, singers, folkloric dancing, sweets and delicacies demonstrating Serbian culture, values and traditions. Dutton Park State School. 11am – 4pm www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/serbian-culturefestival-dutton-park

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

#FamiliesMagFun SEPTEMBER Fri 2 – Sun 4 Sep Redlands Spring Festival, Cleveland Kids are King with a venue and program just for them, sideshow alley, spectacular fireworks, the world famous Strawberry Eating Competition and the illuminating Lantern Parade. Redland Showground. www.families magazine.com.au/events/redlands-spring-festival Sat 3 – Sat 24 Sep Brisbane Festival, Various Locations Each September, it explodes across the city with a thrilling program of theatre, music, dance, circus, opera and major public events such as Sunsuper Riverfire. There are plenty of family friendly events including the shows – Troppo, La Verita and The Listies 6D plus SO much more! There is a mixture of ticketed and free events so check it out! www. familiesmagazine.com.au/events/brisbane-festival Sun 4 Sep Scarborough Sounds, Scarborough Spend Father’s Day afternoon in a magical setting by the Scarborough seaside listening to a superb program of world class music from outstanding artists. 4 – 8pm. Scarborough Park. FREE! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ events/scarborough-sounds-scarborough Sat 10 Sep Jetty Fiesta, Redcliffe This free event will feature stage entertainment, spectacular light displays, Island-inspired acts, beach performances, fire-twirling and a few extra surprises! PLUS – FIREWORKS! Redcliffe Parade. 3 – 9pm. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/ jetty-fiesta-redcliffe Sun 11 Sep Green Heart Fair, Carindale The Green Heart Fair is Brisbane’s biggest FREE bi-annual community and sustainability festival, promoting innovative green living in a fun, family-friendly environment for all residents to come and enjoy. 8am – 2pm. Carindale Recreation Reserve. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/greenheart-fair-carindale Fri 16 – Sun 25 Sep Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, Toowoomba The locals love it and visitors travel from all over the country to be part of it. Spectacular gardens, country touring, live music and local food & wine plus much more. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/thecarnival-of-flowers-toowoomba Sat 17 Sep Moreton Bay Multicultural Fiesta, Strathpine The festival promotes the culture and customs of the

Moreton Bay Community with a wide array of foods, traditional dancing and performances and market stalls. Pine Rivers Park. 2 – 7pm. www.familiesmagazine.com. au/events/moreton-bay-multicultural-fiesta-strathpine

Sat 17 & Sun 18 Sep Oz Comic-Con, South Bank Oz Comic-Con is Australia's ultimate pop culture experience! Oz Comic-Con brings you up close to the biggest names in comics, anime, manga, sci-fi, fantasy, TV, movies and animation! Oz Comic-Con takes place over a huge weekend at the Brisbane Convention Exhibition Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ events/oz-comic-co-south-bank Mon 19 – Fri 30 Sep Kids Dig It! Vikings Family Fun Weeks, Caboolture The Abbey Museum have loads of fun activities planned such as making your own Viking helmet, long boat, bracelet or paper doll, translating some ancient Runes, painting a tough Viking shield, and of course Archery. Bookings online. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/events/kids-dig-it-vikingsfamily-fun-weeks Wed 21 Sep Little Red in the Hood, Redcliffe Once upon a time in a tiny neighbourhood not so far away, lived a very clever girl who always kept an eye on her neighbours and reported anything suspicious to the police. She wore a lovely bright red cape with a hoodjust like a superhero and everyone called her “Little Red”. 11am. Redcliffe Cultural Centre. Bookings Essential. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/events/little-red-hood-redcliffe Wed 21 Sep Natural brooches and hair accessories @ Karawatha AiR Work with natural materials to design brooches and hair accessories then show off your new fashion to the other workshop participants. Best for

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016

ages 15 plus. 10 – 11.30am. Bookings Essential. www. familiesmagazine.com.au/events/natural-brooches-andhair-accessories-karawatha-air Thu 22 Sep Living Life Fully for Teens, Loganholme The introductory teens program is full of inspirational activities designed to help you blast through whatever has been holding you back in life. Clearing and finishing with old negative beliefs, destructive patterns and painful self talk. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/livinglife-fully-for-teens-loganholme Thu 22 Sep – Sun 16 Oct Singin’ in the Rain, South Bank Making a splash from the moment it premiered, this sensational production of Singin' in the Rain is set to delight Brisbane. As well as glorious songs including Good Morning, Make 'em Laugh, Moses Supposes and the classic Singin' in the Rain, the movie's choreography is brought to life, and with the help of 12,000 litres of water, the audience can enjoy one of the most iconic dance routines live on stage. QPAC. Bookings Essential. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/events/singin-in-the-rainsouth-bank Fri 23 Sep Parents Living Life Fully, Loganholme A one day workshop for those who have or work with kids and teens. During this workshop you will be learning the inside secrets of EVERYTHING they do that works! And discovering how to use these tools with your family or group to develop great communication, teams and families that really WORK and grow happy healthy kids that are right on track. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ events/parents-living-life-full-loganholme Mon 26 Sep The Next Step: Wild Rhythm Tour, South Bank The cast of Disney Channel/ABC 3 hit series The Next Step have announced that The Next Step: Wild Rhythm Tour will tour Australia and New Zealand for the first time ever during the September school holidays. Bookings Essential. QPAC. www.familiesmagazine.com. au/events/the-next-step-wild-rythym-tour-south-bank Wed 28 Thu 29 Sep Fluff: A Story of Lost Toys, Ipswich This a delightful story of what happened to a group of mismatched hand-made toys that have unfortunately been lost by the people who cherished them most… but found again by the caring and sweetly nutty Gingham family. Ipswich Civic Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com. au/events/fluff-a-story-of-lost-toys

Families Freebies

Fantastic Prizes

Families

Freebies for the whole family! Enter Online!

Enter at www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au/competitions

WIN 1 of 2 family passes to TROPPO at Brisbane Festival Brisbane Festival and The-Courier Mail present Troppo. In this ‘Alice in Wonderland meets The Tempest’ action-packed new show, festival favourite Circa (AUS) invites you to join them on their mystical island of Troppo. Troppo is an explosively fun beach party the whole family will enjoy at The Courier-Mail Piazza, South Bank from 13-23 Sept. A daring new acrobatic world where you need to get lost to truly find yourself. On a deserted island far, far away a rag tag circus troupe is washed up on a beach. Dazed and unfamiliar with their colourful new world they venture into the island. Will they make it off or will the tropical, warm climate make them all go a little... ‘troppo’? Surprising and playful, joyful and adventurous, Troppo is a fantastical night out for everyone. Find out more at Brisbanefestival.com.au

1 of 2 x family passes to Troppo at Brisbane Festival to win

WIN 1 of 2 Family Passes to The EKKA

WIN 1 of 5 Family Passes to Oz Comic-Con in Brisbane

This year’s Ekka from 5-14 August is the best value ever for families, with the first two-day pass in the show’s history introduced, along with dedicated two for one ride and food days - plus 15 per cent off all online tickets up until Ekka eve. More than 70 per cent of the showgrounds are dedicated to free entertainment and activities including the spectacular night show EkkaNITES, 10,000 animals on show and performances by a number of family favourites like the Paw Patrol Show, The Lumberjack Show and The Farm Yard Friends who will be roving the grounds. Ekka is delighted to be giving away to Families Magazine readers two family passes for a family of four valued at $87 per pass.

2 Family passes (4 tickets) to win

Calling all pop culture-loving families! Get out your light sabres, dust off your favourite comic books … Oz Comic-Con is coming back to Brisbane this September. A perfect way for families to kick off the school holidays, Oz Comic-Con will be taking over the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on 17-18 September. A celebration of the very best in the popculture sphere, Oz Comic-Con Brisbane will feature a huge variety of celebrity guests, comic artists, interactive features and amazing exhibitors. It’s fun for the whole family, with a family activity room and kids cosplay parade to keep event the littlest fans entertained! For more information: www.ozcomiccon.com/2016

1 of 5 x family passes to Comic-Con, Brisbane to win

WIN a $300 Gift Voucher to stay in the Magical Bunya Mountains Bunya Mountains Accommodation Centre is giving one lucky family the opportunity to relax and refuel their spirits with a stay in the magical Bunya Mountains. The winner will receive a $300 gift voucher to spend on their choice of more than 100 homes including cosy cottages nestled in the rainforest, and small, medium and large family homes with panoramic views of the Bunya Mountains National Park. All homes capture the beauty and charm of the Bunya Mountains and most include a large verandah or deck to take in the stunning scenery and abundant native birds and wildlife, and a log fireplace to snuggle up by during the cool Bunya evenings. Kitchens are appointed with modern appliances and some houses have a spa bath or a pool table too. The Bunya Mountains Accommodation Centre is the largest provider of holiday rental homes and chalets in the Bunya Mountains. For more details, visit www.bunyamountains.com.au

1 x $300 Voucher for Accommodation to win

WIN a Family Pass with Brisbane Whale Watching

Brisbane Whale Watching is giving you the opportunity to win a family pass to be used anytime during the 2016 Whale Watching Season (excluding public holidays)) on board the magnificent Eye Spy for an encounter with the mighty Humpback Whales right here in Brisbane’s Moreton Bay! Offering guaranteed whale sightings, a fresh gourmet buffet lunch including tiger prawns, chicken, ham and silverside with a large arrangement of salads and rolls, an extensive and informative commentary by Captain Kerry Lopez and a licensed bar, snack and souvenir counter is available on board, Brisbane Whale watching is one of Brisbane’s favourite tour companies.

1 Family Pass (2 x Adults and 2 x Children) to win For full competition terms and conditions and to enter, log on to: www.FamiliesMagazine.com.au and click on ‘Competitions’

Families Magazine is made with love by Janine Mergler - Editor Regina Gleeson – Listings Editor Suzie Porter – Designer Jesse Stanger – IT Systems & Support Dana Flannery-Hayes – Talk About Creative – SEO @ www. talkaboutcreative.com.au

Remember to join our Facebook page to enter our Facebook ONLY competitions

UPCOMING ISSUES October/November 2016

TODDLERS, CHILDCARE & DAYCARE Advertising deadline: Friday 2 September 2016 December 2016/January 2017

SUMMER DAYS OUT & CLUBS, CLASSES & ACTIVITIES Advertising deadline: Friday 28 October 2016

The information contained in this publication and on our website and social media forums is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Families Magazine and its contributors as detailed on individual articles. While we endeavour to publish information that is up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the information, products, services, or related images contained in print, on our website or in our social media forums for any purpose. Information received via our publication or online should not be relied upon for personal, medical, legal or financial decisions. You should consult an appropriate professional for specic advice tailored to your need and situation.

We do not endorse contents or advertisers in our publication or on our web pages and will not responsible for any content of any linked site or any link contained in the link site. In no event shall we be liable for direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special, consequential damages or any damages whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with the use of or performance of information, products, services or reliance on the contents of the advertisements. All material including, but not limited to adverts, editorial, images and part thereof sent to Families Magazine remain the property of Families Magazine. All materials and personal details will be handled appropriately with respect to data protection laws. No material published by Families Magazine in print or online may be reproduce whatsoever without prior written consent.

Your Local Families Magazine August/September 2016