Families Bedfordshire magazine March - April 2014

FREE

MAR/APR

201

ISSUE 9 4

Bedfordshire

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Things to make and do this

SPRING

Childcare feature What's on this

Easter!

For families with young children aged 0 -12 in Bedfordshire

3-5 Editor's Welcome

Bedfordshire

Hello and welcome to our March-April issue!

This issue is packed with lots of Easter events, what's on and things to do with the family, together with the chance to win tickets to Mead Open Farm. Plus, we've got our childcare feature which looks at the different options available to parents and the changes that are likely to take place in this important area during 2014.

We've also got lots of education news including a feature on prep schools - what are they and questions to ask yourself when choosing one. Plus, our first ever Clubs & Classes page - so please do let us have your news.

Finally, as you may have noticed, the magazine has had a bit of a design 'refresh', which I very much hope you like.

Comments on a postcard, please!

Enjoy your Easter break.

Judith P.S. Our May-June issue will include our popular Parties Feature, plus what's on for May half-term. Copy deadline: Friday 4 April.

Competition winners: Congratulations to the winners of the three family tickets to the Milton Keynes Model Railway Exhibition who were: P Cooling, F Williams & M Plater.

Contents

NEWS AND INFO

6

CLUBS AND CLASSES

7

EASTER ACTIVITIES

8-9

CHILDCARE

10

PREP SCHOOLS

12

EDUCATION

13

TRAVEL

14 - 15 16

WHAT’S ON NEWS AND REVIEWS

Editor: Judith Dow editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk Mob: 07889 894431 or phone: 01727 373929.

Part of the Families ® magazines group, established 1990. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned & operated under license.

Design: CBF - www.cbfnet.co.uk Photo credits: Front cover: © www.next.co.uk p2 © J Bewley/Sustrans; p7 © Frances Quinn; p8 © dmitrimaruta – Fotolia.com; p9 © Maygutyak - Fotolia.com; p9 © Dmitry Vereshchagin – Fotolia.com; p10 www.dunnesstores.com; p13 © Sandernl | Dreamstime Stock Photos; p 13 ©Center Parcs; p14 Leighton Buzzard Railway; p15 © English Heritage; p 16 ©NationalTrustImages; Families Bedfordshire is printed by The Manson Group (01727 848440) on paper sourced from sustainable forests and the inks used are vegetable based.

Distribution: We print 14,000 copies which are distributed to selected points in Bedfordshire. For further distribution information please contact: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities t Courses mapped to the National Curriculum. t Adapts to the individual needs of your child. t Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week. t Award-winning tuition - voted Education Investor Supplementary Education Provider of the Year.

“Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.”

Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

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March/April 2014

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

News and info

Mot hering

The Big Pedal

Sunday

From 3-14 March, the charity Sustrans is challenging kids, parents and teachers to leave their cars at home and get on their bikes and scooters for the school run. Hundreds of thousands of kids, including 84 schools from the East of England, are expected to take part in the Big Pedal 2014, an inter-school competition which aims to get more children active by cycling and scooting to school.

Participating schools compete with one another to make the most journeys by bike or scooter over 10 days. And there is also the chance to dress up as a Superhero and donate £1 to Sustrans on Friday 14 March.

By signing up to the Big Pedal schools receive tailored lesson plans, posters, maps, and ideas on how to encourage everyone in the school to get involved. They’ll also be in with a chance to win some amazing prizes for the school. To get your school involved in the Big Pedal go to: www.bigpedal.org.uk

Real Nappy Week 2014 by Joanna Parry Taking place from 28 April - 4 May 2014, Real Nappy Week is all about celebrating reusables – for those who are already converted to cloth and those not yet tempted. Get involved in nationwide events, competitions and a whole lot more.

Mother’s Day takes place on 30 March this year, so it’s time to treat your mother - or for your little ones to treat you! Perhaps you’d like a lie in and breakfast in bed, a day at the spa, afternoon tea or a trip to the theatre? Or perhaps what you’d really love is a day to spend time with your loved ones, for example, the cafe at Jordans Mill in Broom will be serving a Mother's Day Lunch which you can combine with a tour of the Gardens and Mill. Phone 01767 603940 to book or just turn up! Or, you can learn how to decorate cookies over at Stockwood Discovery Centre in Luton, courtesy of So Crafty, phone 07857 413031 to book. And across the country many museums, National Trust properties and stately homes are running Mother’s Day events, so why not plan a special day with your family this March?

Easter panto comes to the Grove

Choosing the right nappy can be an important decision for new parents, and real nappies are now more popular than ever. They can save you upwards of £500 per child (more if you use your nappies on a second child), are better for the environment, save on waste to landfill, are comfortable for your baby and, best of all, are super stylish. Available in a choice of fabrics including cotton, bamboo, microfibre and fleece, and in a choice of styles for different occasions. You can even buy bespoke!

More info: www.goreal.org.uk/real-nappy-week

Well, this is a new one on me. The concept of an 'Easter pantomime' that is. But apparently they are all the rage and coming to a theatre near you. Well, the Grove Theatre, Dunstable to be precise. Book yourself a family ticket to see Paul Daniels and co. perform in Alice in Wonderland featuring a fabulous live band, hilarious comedy, mind blowing magic, spectacular sets and costumes, and a West End cast, it's on from 18-21 April.

More info: www.grovetheatre.co.uk

Discover the Marston Vale Line (Bedford-Bletchley) this Spring!

Here are just a few ideas for great days out!

All within easy walking distance of the nearest station!

All aboard at Lidlington For further information please contact: Stephen Sleight Marston Vale Community Rail Partnership Tel: 01234 832645 Email: stephens@bedsrcc.org.uk Visit our award-winning website www.marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk Find us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/marstonvalecrp Follow us on Twitter!@marstonvalecrp

ve GroupSa Ticket ts for ul ad 4 to Up of 2 (off the price up to 4 peak) plnusfor only childre each. £1 5s go Under e. fre

Bedford: The Higgins & John Bunyan Museum both have special Easter holiday activities.

Millbrook: take your bikes on the train (no extra charge) & cycle ride to the Forest Centre with new adventure playground Ridgmont:visit Restored Ridgmont Station with Victorian Booking Office, gift shop & tea room. Free entry!

Booking office & gift shop, 10-4pm, Tues-Sat from 8 April; tea room, Tues-Sun, 9-5pm & daily from 8 April Fenny Stratford: catch the Saturday football action at Stadium MK, home of MK Dons FC Bletchley: Bletchley Park: Home of the Codebreakers, family multimedia guide included in entry fee!

Bletchley Pa rk Offer 2 for 1 entry for!

Vale Line pass Marston engers at Bletchley www.bletchley Park. park.org.uk 01908 64 On production 0404 ticket. Offer vaof a valid lid 31 Decemberuntil 2014.

To advertise: 01727 373929

March/April 2014

3

News and info

World Book Day

By Joanna Parry

This year’s World Book Day hits the shelves on 6 March, and they need your help!

Which books have changed your life? Which books thrill you, scare you, make you laugh? Which books do your children devour again and again? Nominate your favourites now at www.worldbookday.com. World Book Day is the biggest celebration of books anywhere, with millions and millions of book tokens given out, great free books for kids plus events taking place in schools, libraries and bookshops. Don’t miss out - register online to keep up to date with the exciting Big Booky Events and to get your free books.

Plus, this year's Luton Hoo's Kid's Book Festival is already being planned for Sunday 11 May. Enter the magical Luton Hoo Walled Garden and for one day only you will discover a fabulous world of the imagination with the best in children’s literature.

For more information on who will be appearing and when, plus information on how to buy tickets, keep an eye on the website: www.hoobookfest.org.uk

Labels4Kids have expanded the range offered on their new website with the introduction of the snappy school pack.

This multi-pack of labels contains snap on tags and vinyl labels giving you the advantage of vinyl waterproof labels for all your non-clothing items, two bag tags and snap on snappy tags etched with a name (and a phone number if you wish).

Snappy tags have the added benefit of being removable and reusable. Other new lines include personalised luggage straps with security locks and sew-on labels with pre-sealed edges to stop fraying.

Labels4Kids expand their range

Sign up online at www.labels4kids.com to get regular updates and offers right to your inbox. You can also ‘like’ the Labels4Kids facebook page for competitions and more offers.

Plus, Families customers get 10% discount with the code “families” at the checkout so go to www.labels4kids.com/fam and buy today! Be prepared for next year before the rush.

St Johns' Hospice is looking for help!

Luan Hall has recently taken over the B-Friend a Bear party business which she is running alongside her toy shop Fairies n'Frogs in Ampthill. She is taking party bookings with prices starting at £10 per child. There is the option to host a few children in the shop or else her team will come to a venue and provide a host, depending on numbers. According to Luan 'bear' parties offer good value and are a big hit with both girls and boys, with lots of outfit options available.

Reader offer: Families Bedfordshire readers who mention 'Families' when booking a party will get a free outfit for the birthday child's bear.

For more info: phone: 01525 840271 or email: toys@fairiesnfrogs.co.uk

4

March/April 2014

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Situated within lovely gardens in the mid Bedfordshire village of Moggerhanger, Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice has been busy providing incredible care for those living with incurable illness in the community for 34 years.

They need to raise £2.4 million a year to be able to provide this incredible care and are looking for some help. Either through a simple donation, or by organising an enjoyable fundraising event with a group, or taking up a challenge while raising sponsorship for them, they need people to help make 2014 a year to remember. If you would like to discuss further, then please contact Regional Fundraiser Jessica Wilson.

Phone: 01767 642422 or email Jessica.wilson@sueryder.org

News and info

Rothesay Nursery’s children get closer to nature

C

hildren and staff at Rothesay Nursery, Luton took part in the world’s biggest birdwatch organised by the RSPB, the Big Garden Birdwatch. The school joined thousands of other children from across the country to count and identify the different birds that visited their grounds between 20 January and 14 February as part of the RSPB’s Little Schools’ Birdwatch for the under fives Since the start of the new term, pupils diligently collected toilet rolls, which they used to create their very own binoculars. They also made bird feeders and put out food to entice different birds to their

playground. Posters and books were used to help them identify the birds they had spotted. The children counted a total of 26 birds including Magpies, Blackbirds, Robins, Pigeons and some Crows.

Janet Brownjohn, Headteacher, Rothesay Nursery School, said: “The whole school took part in the birdwatch event, which was a practical and fun way of teaching children. Through this activity they were able to use a number of skills including listening to the different bird sounds, counting, identifying different colours as well as learning about the different behaviours of the birds”.

WIN

Family tickets To Mead Open Farm!

Families Bedfordshire has six sets of tickets (each admitting 2 adults and 2 children) to give away to Mead Open Farm (www.meadopenfarm.co.uk) this Easter.

Enter a land of treetop towers, wibbly wobbly bridges and upside down trees in Mead Open Farm’s magical new Topsy Turvy Towers Adventure Play Area, from 5 April! With a separate area just for under 5’s, there’s fun and excitement for all ages.

Tractor Ted does Easter!

Tractor Ted (www.tractorted.co.uk) the young children’s farming superhero is releasing its second activity book with a special Easter edition available from March.

Tractor Ted’s Activity Book 2 (£4.99) is a 32 page full colour book with lots of real life photography of farm machinery, animals and plants, and activities and games such as opposites, matching, counting, colouring and cooking. Activities include recipes for Krispie Chicks and Easter Nests and working out where chicks, butterflies, daffodils and cheese come from (eggs, caterpillars, bulbs and milk) to keep kids entertained over the Easter break.

Plus, from 5-21 April don’t miss the egg-stra fun of Mead Open Farm’s Easter Bunny Bonanza! Every day, you can earn a chocolate treat by hunting for eggs in Hoppy’s new Hamlet, meet real Easter Chicks and visit the Lamb Nursery.

And, don’t miss all the outdoor and indoor fun including Shaggy’s huge indoor PlayWorld, go-karts, crazy golf and the new Sky Trail High Ropes Course!

For your chance to win a family ticket to Mead Open Farm, simply answer the question below.

What is the name of the new Adenture Play At Mead Open Farm?

A. Topsy Turvy Towers B. Upside Down Towers C. Right Way Up Towers Enter online by Monday 31 March 2014 at: www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk/competitions

To advertise: 01727 373929

March/April 2014

5

Clubs and Classes Kumon Ampt hill relocate s Kumon's Ampt hill branch have now relocated their classes to the Parkside Com munity Hall, W oburn Street Ampthill due to the clos ure of the Nottingham Rooms at the end of January. Englis h and maths cl asses continue to be taught twice a week on Tuesday an d Saturday in Ampthill. Conta ct Theresa Bu rnett on 01525 8602 79 to book.

Parlez vous...?

Wish you had learnt French,

as a

small child when it was so nat

ural?

French classes for children aged 3-9 years

sh Free maths and Engli activities! n es in Bedford and Milto Explore Learning centr n to tio tui + 11 d an h glis , En Keynes provide maths sily ilities. Explore fits ea ab all of s old ar ye 4 5-1 ys a da 7 en op centres are around family life; the a ce twi to up d en le to att week, with children ab . sis week on a drop-in ba ity l be hosting a Commun On 15 April Explore wil ths and ma e ctiv era int e fre be Open Day! There will s all 5 – 14 year olds acros literacy workshops for ited so lim are es ac centres. Sp the Explore Learning . ce pla ur yo e erv to res call your local centre visit to book a free trial, or Call your local centre . .co.uk www.explorelearning

across Bedfordshire.

La Petite Ecole Française

Where the accent is on the Fren

ch.

For more information about all

Small classes. Fun curriculum.

Native speakers.

inging e and s 's c n a d , a ren g) dram evelop child d orm.or f nd r lp a e e n h .p o (www ned to , co-ordinati ig m r s week. e fo d r Pe ation s are n of the p ic fu o n t h u s s e m k m eb wor nce, co eing th ach, confide skills whilst b and Re rm th a n e o ti H a tr ring te t their concen day du 000 to offer a s r e e u d T a 4 ry re pecial es eve call 0845 400 would es plac ave a s They h ch which tak of this please d if your child ount c n e an vantag £40 dis sson. A LU7 Br take ad Free Trial Le im a special MI010514. o T . e cla tim FA d's uoting ou can our chil book y ntinue then y sessions by q co first ten like to r child's u o y n o

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March/April 2014

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of our classes:

www.lpef.co.uk ◆ 01234 407915

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Singers so ught!

Caritas Harm ony, (www.carita sharmony.co .uk) formerly as Pasque H known armony is lo oking for so new membe me rs to join this Luton-based ladies choir which rehearses on Monday even a ing at Stops ley Baptist C Luton from 7. hurch 30-10pm.

They are on the lookout for Second Sopranos an d Altos, toge ther with an experienced rehearsal pi anist (£40 pe session), as r they embark on rehearsa their third C ls for D. This is a chan music, forge friendships fo ce to make r life, and ra money for th ise eir chosen ch arity Macmill an.

If you are in terested, plea se contact M Director Mar usical garet Blenkin 07802 6759 on 42 for furthe r details.

Easter Activities

Baking by DESIGN

By Rachel Bentley, Editor Families Pennines

I am glued to the screen for the final of 2013’s Great British Bake Off (GBBO) - Frances Quinn beats off tough competition to triumph. How has she kept it all together?

“It was stressful –the judges’ comments can hit you hard.” Famously Frances was told to be aware of ’style over substance’ during the show.

This is a lady with a lot of style AND substance. A designer for top clothing brand, Joules, she is taking time out to pursue baking-oriented challenges, but the 31 year old from Market Harborough has developed her love of baking combined with design over many years.

The youngest of 5, the kitchen played a big part in family life and from a young age she would go and make a batch of flapjack – there was always a lunch box to be filled!

Many parents are concerned over sugar and additives in our children’s food – and Frances uses ingredients which are lower sugar, with natural colourings and few additives.

“I use ginger or chocolate for colouring, perhaps with a bit of gold leaf, like my owl-shaped shortbread with almonds, rather than brightly coloured, sweetie covered cakes.”

At Joules the colours she developed all had reference to food! She’d take bakes to work to test out themed cake designs on colleagues and Joules asked her to include her bakes on its blog. She is often asked will she pursue baking OR clothing design.

“I don’t want to choose, I think they mesh together. I don’t want to be boxed in and hope to keep on creating in both spheres. And there is a book deal in the ‘piping bag’ line!! It has all been incredible.”

As we finish, I head straight for the family kitchen, hide the candy-coated-chocolate-bean cake decorations to the back of the cupboard and begin to rethink baking with the kids!

See Frances’s website for baking ideas: www.francesquinn.co.uk

To construct your bee hotel

by Robin Dean, The Red Beehive Company

O

f all the insects that visit our gardens, none are more iconic and important to us than bees, and they come in a surprising range of sizes, colours and shapes. Honey and bumble bees are instantly recognizable to most of us as they buzz around, but how many of us could identify some of the other species of bee?

Whether we can identify them or not, one thing is common to all species, and that is they all need our help. Most bees would just like a little nectar and pollen, and a lovely Easter holiday project would be to plant up a “Bee Garden”. There are a number of plants to choose from that are robust and require minimum care, beyond a drink of water now and again, and will do splendidly in a small window box, planter or large pot. Snowdrops, Crocus, Primrose and Bluebells (remember Bluebells are protected, so don’t go digging them up from a local woodland area!) all make for a spectacular spring display. Rosemary, Sage and Lavender are also highly attractive to bees, and Chives have flowers to tempt them - as well as making a tasty contribution to the kitchen! A Catnip plant or two will keep your cat happy, as well as the having the local bees dropping in for a nectar and pollen snack.

Now you have given them some food, why not make a bee hotel as well. For those of you concerned about encouraging bees to live in the garden, don’t be. Bees that live in bee hotels are solitary bees, and unlike the social bees (honey and bumble bees) don’t make honey so therefore don’t have anything to defend. This makes them really docile and perfectly safe to have around children and pets.

To construct your bee hotel: You will need some bamboo (around 1.5cm in diameter), string or garden wire, and a small saw (to cut the bamboo).

Cut the bamboo into 15cm lengths, cutting each piece just before a node to give you a hollow tube with a natural sealed end.

Bind the bamboo pieces together with the string or garden wire, with the open ends all facing in the same direction.

Take the bundle out into the garden and find a secure place to fasten your bee hotel to. The open ends should face anywhere between east and south to get the early morning sun, with a clear flight path into the hotel.

To advertise: 01727 373929

March/April 2014

7

Childcare

Choosing your childcare

Childcare costs are increasing – but it’s quality that matters the most for any parent. Joanna Moorhead looks at what option might suit you best, plus what’s new in 2014 According to a recent survey from findababysitter.com, childcare costs are soaring – up by 19% over the last year. Every parent knows that what matters most about any sort of childcare is its quality – it’s vital that your child is safe, happy and in a stimulating environment while you’re at work – but the money matters too. So what are the factors you need to take into account when you’re choosing childcare in readiness for returning to work?

A nanny might suit you if...

You’re a reasonably high earner - nannies can be expensive, though they’re a lot more affordable if you share them with another family. As well as basic pay, there are a lot of extras to be aware of when you employ a nanny - particularly her tax, which you are required to pay, but also car insurance if she’s driving your car, and the costs of all the outings and visits your child is taken on.

You work irregular hours. That’s because you can pay a nanny to work the hours you work, whereas a nursery or childminder will be less flexible about time.

You have two or more children, or have one baby and hope to have another very soon, because you’ll pay your nanny for her time, not for the number of children she’s looking after.

You have quite rigorous ideas about, for example, the food you want your child to eat, and the schedule you want for his or her day. You can be a lot more prescriptive as a parent with a nanny than you can with a nursery or childminder, where your child will have to fit into a pre-existing schedule established by the institution or minder.

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March/April 2014

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

A childminder might suit you if...

You work part-time or are not a high earner (childminders are usually the cheapest or, as many would prefer to put it, the best-value option).

You have two or more children and would like them to see a lot of each other through the day.

You like the idea of another mother caring for your child - most childminders are mothers themselves.

A nursery might suit you if...

You have an only child or this is your youngest child and you are unlikely to have more in the near future - because a nursery will give him or her plenty of opportunities to play with other children.

Your child is not a small baby, and so many benefit particularly from the organised activities a nursery can offer.

You like the idea of a setting where events are regulated in a way that involves a lot of carers, rather than just one.

What’s happening in 2014?

Childcare is always a political hot potato – and with a General Election looming in just over a year’s time, politicians are saying more and doing more about it. Here’s what’s new on the childcare horizon: From September this year, more two-year-olds will be offered 15 hours of free childcare each week, because the eligibility criteria are being expanded. See your local authority website for more information – they’ll be publishing full details of who’s eligible and how to find a place Free universal childcare for all pre-school children is being promised by Labour in their election manifesto. If they’re elected to power next time round, the Labour leadership is likely to make a dramatic announcement about the way childcare will be organised in Britain in the coming years The new tax-free childcare scheme comes into effect from 2015. Under that, parents will be able to claim 20% of the cost of registered childcare up to £1,200 per child per year. Both parents must be working to qualify, or a single parent must be in employment.

Organisations offering advice and information on childcare include: Childcare.co.uk is an online social networking platform for parents, childcare providers and private tutors. www.childcare.co.uk The Family and Childcare Trust is a campaigning organisation with a helpful bank of information for parent. www.familyandchildcaretrust.org The Pre-school Learning Alliance is England's largest early years membership organisation. www.pre-school.org.uk Working Families aims to help parents and carers achieve a work-life balance. More at www.workingfamilies.org.uk

Harpers Nursery School, Baby Unit and Forest School BLUNHAM ‘A Unique Learning Experience’

Last year’s report from the Department of Education that proposed making changes to the child to staff ratios in nurseries and for childminders was shelved after the Liberal Democrats objected, but the government has consulted on relaxing ratios and quality criteria for out-of-school childcare with the aim of making it easier for schools to offer provision. At the moment the issue is with the Department for Education, and an announcement is expected soon.

Under the Children and Families Bill, currently going through Parliament, Ofsted will be made ‘the sole arbiter of quality’. This means that local authorities will not be able to impose their own quality conditions on providers who offer childcare under the existing scheme offering free places for three and four year olds (provided these providers are not rated ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted).Some parents will see this as a good thing, as it could lead to a wider choice of providers; or they might see it as a bad thing, as local authorities will be able to do less to force childcarers to improve their services.

Forest School lessons Full Early Years Curriculum FREE places for two year olds Experienced and qualified teaching staff OFSTED rated ‘Outstanding’ Hands-on meaningful learning Home cooked healthy meals Safe, caring and happy environment Teaching and Learning for children aged 6wks-5yrs

Open Mon-Fri 7.30am-6.00pm Acres of grounds for curiosity and challenge

Tel: 01767 641499 www.harpersnursery.co.uk To advertise: 01727 373929

March/April 2014

9

Prep Schools

What are they and how to choose the right one?

By Ellen Arnison

T

raditionally a preparatory school was where children went to ‘prepare’ to go to one of the major British public schools, such as Eton and Harrow, working up to them sitting the Common Entrance exam at 13. However, while that picture still exists in some cases, the situation now varies widely.

Broadly, there are two kinds of prep school – one where the children leave at 11, perhaps after an 11 + exam, and one where the children sit the Common Entrance exam then leave at 13.

In some cases youngsters attend a prep school until they reach their 11 + exam and then transfer to a local (state) grammar school. The smaller classes and more focussed attention in a prep school can improve their chances. This is particularly appealing to parents who think their child won’t get what they require from the nearby state primaries.

Traditionally boys attended prep schools up to age 13, either to sit the Common Entrance exam (part of the admissions process for academically selective secondary schools) and then to move on elsewhere or to graduate to the attached senior school almost automatically. However, girls as well as boys now attend prep school on this basis as across the board the trend is to move from single-sex education to co-ed.

There isn’t always an entrance exam for preps schools, in many cases the school will just want to interview you and your child, perhaps inviting him or her to spend a ‘taster’ session in class.

This also allows teaching staff to observe how your child fits in.

The decision is easier when you look to the end destination – the senior school and work backwards. Your decision will be narrowed by considering if there is a school attached to your preferred secondary and what kinds of criteria they use to select pupils.

Ask yourself the following questions: But it isn’t just about the exams, in both cases the prep schools can provide far more, including a wide range of sports and more Does the school fit the basic requirements of you and your child specialised subjects, such as Latin, the pupils will need as they in terms of gender, day and/or boarding, religious denomination, move through their education. curriculum and location?

Julie Robinson, a former prep school head and Education and Training Director at the Independent Association of Prep Schools said: “They say the independent sector seems to bring a set of high expectations: a huge amount of time invested in pastoral support and personal development for the children, excellent facilities and a focus on learning.

Does it meet your educational objectives in terms of offering the exams your child will need to sit?

Will your child be happy there? Do you get good feedback from other parents and children?

Does the school get a good report? How are the exam results, “Parents believe their investment in fees is an investment in their the general atmosphere and the teaching quality? children’s future.”

Do you like the ethos of school? It’s usually very clear and Dr Christiane Fisher, Head teacher, Acorn Preparatory School in follows strong leadership from the Head.

Luton said: What is the teaching and staff turnover like?

“Small class sizes make a big difference to our teaching, enabling an in-depth knowledge of every child. This, and an emphasis on good manners and behaviour are, in my view, the main reasons why parents send their children to prep schools.”

However, the range of places to invest and ways to ensure the best for your children is enormous. At first glance the decision about whether or not to use a prep school and, indeed, which one is best can seem bewildering.

There are more than 1,000 prep schools in the UK taking children to 11 and 13, traditionally they are boarding schools but nowadays many parents chose to send their children daily.

Equally some prep schools will be part of ‘all-through’ schools catering for from the age of three up to 18 and some will be attached to a senior school Some prep schools adhere to the National Curriculum but they are not bound to, which can give them freedom to offer a broader and more varied curriculum that isn’t burdened by tests.

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What is the curriculum?

How big are the classes?

What is the school’s approach to discipline and rules?

What did the most recent inspection report say?

What are the pastoral care facilities like?

Does the school offer the facilities you would like to see, such as for sport, music or drama?

Is there a wide-enough range of extra curricular activities?

Does the school give value for money for what you want? Be careful to take extras into account.

Open Days s l o o h c S t Independen Open Morning , 10-12 noon Saturday 1 March , Bedford 78 Kimbolton Road ol, ho St Andrews Sc hoolbedford.com www.standrewssc

Open Morning , 10am-12 noon rd Saturday 15 March ickhill Drive, Bedfo aratory School, Br Pilgrims Pre-Prep ool.info www.pilgrims-sch Open Days Saturday 31 May , Saturday 26 April, Saturday 29 March ad, Luton Ro School, 2 Roman Acorn Preparatory 0 Tel: 01582 574 39 om ornprepschool.c ac w. ww o: inf More

Open Morning , 10-12noon Saturday 8 March Road, Bedford 58-60 Shakespeare ol, ho Sc or Rushmo hool.co.uk www.rushmoorsc

Action Day .15am & 2.30pm. tours: 9.45am, 11 Thursday 24 April, dford Manton Lane, Be Bedford Modern, .uk .co od dm be More info: www.

Open Morning , 9.30am-11.30am Saturday 8 March , Barton le Clay gham Gobion Road Hi ol, Orchard Scho ool.org.uk www.orchardsch ng am-1pm Spring Open Morni Thursday 8 May, 10 rch, 10am – 1pm; rd dfo Wednesday 12 Ma ad, Be ol, Cardington Ro Bedford Girls Scho k o.u l.c oo ch ss www.bedfordgirl

Open Morning 10am-11.45am.

Saturday 26 April, dford Parys Avenue, Be Bedford School, De .uk rg l.o oo dfordsch More info: www.be Open Morning 0am-12.

Friday 23 May, 9.3 hool, Markyate Sc rk Pa d oo Beechw enday hwoodpark.net/op ec be More info: www.

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Put your child on the path to success Beechwood Park School Open Morning - May 23rd • Montessori nursery for 3-4 year olds • Average teaching group of 15 • Breakfast and After School Clubs • Optional, flexible, weekly boarding from year 5 To find out how we create an environment where every child can fulfil their potential, call our Registrar Liz Graham on 01582 840333, or visit www.beechwoodpark.net/openday

OPEN DAY Saturday 15th March

10.00am - 12 noon For further details visit our website or call 01234 369555 Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School Brickhill Drive, Bedford

Beechwood Park School Markyate Hertfordshire AL3 8AW T: 01582 840333 www.beechwoodpark.net

To advertise: 01727 373929

March/April 2014

11

Education

Education Viewpoint

I

am not sure if it is healthy but I do like a bit of pageantry and I especially like a good motto. There is a standing joke within our family about our family motto. The joke is that we don’t have a family motto but my Dad made one up on the spot and I believed it to be true. However this invented motto has stood me in good stead over the years and has been a valuable asset when times were tough. The motto is ‘often down but never out’. I have now started to repeat it to my children when they are getting discouraged – and so a dynasty is born - or so I would like to think!

I am currently training to be a schools inspector. My belief being that a robust and consistent inspection system can be a real boon in helping schools to improve. However it has to be said that the behaviour and performance of the company to whom the training is outsourced has left me frequently wanting to throw in the towel. In the worst moments though I do go back to the motto of Ofsted which is ‘raising standards and improving lives’ which serves to remind me why I took on to do the training and it keeps me from the towel throwing.

School mottos are a popular thing and having driven through a lot of different school gates in my time as a consultant I have read quite a few. Lots seem to have the words ‘committed’, ‘aspiring’ and ‘excellence’ in them. I must add here that I am a fan of the simple motto such as that of the Red Arrows which is simply ‘eclat’ which is the French word for brilliance but with shine and flair.

And if I had a school what would its motto be? Well I would go back to that great sage and philosopher William Shakespeare and use the line spoken by Polonius to his son Laertes in Hamlet in which he says ‘in all things to thine own self be true’. Children in my school would accept themselves as whole, complete and perfect for being just the way they are – and just the way they are not – but more importantly, they would be taught to accept others as the same.

Tom Barwood is principal consultant and lead presenter for LikeMinds Consulting and Directeur of La Petite Ecole Francaise (UK). www.tombarwood.com or www.lpef.co.uk

Open Days: Saturday 29 March, Saturday 26 April, Saturday 31 May Open to ages 4-11 Acorn Preparatory School, 2 Roman Road, Luton LU3 2QT Tel: 01582 574 390 www.acornprepschool.com

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March/April 2014

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

Pilgrims - where children learn, play and thrive Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School in Bedford is much more than a school. It is a happy, caring community that provides children from the age of three months to eight years, with a small, nurturing environment where children can learn, play and thrive.

It is constantly growing through the adoption of innovative teaching techniques, the use of the latest technology and the provision of a well-rounded education – all supported by a wonderful variety of extra-curricular activities.

Set in beautiful and secure grounds adjacent to Bedford Park, Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School, which is part of The Harpur Trust, comprises Little Pilgrims (three months to three years), Nursery (three to four years), Reception (four to five years) and Years 1 and 2 (five to eight years).

If you are interested in finding out more about Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School visit: www.pilgrims-school.info or call registrar, Karen Sinclair, on 01234 369555 who will be delighted to arrange a school tour for you.

Preparing for the next step “In our Senior Department (years 6-8), boys and girls are taught by specialists in every subject with setting in Maths, English, Science, French and Latin. In Years 7 and 8, pupils will also be setted in History, Geography and Religious Studies. All other subjects are taught in mixed-ability groups - our senior pupils have the option of studying a range of additional subjects including Electronics, Computer Science, Cookery, Dance, and Ceramics.

“Small teaching groups in these last three years, together with the high degree of setting in academic subjects, enable us to provide a more individualised education programme for each child which ensures excellent preparation for Scholarship and Common Entrance exams, as well as an exemplary all-round education. Our Staff at Beechwood Park have many years of experience in preparing children for these exams and our pupils have an outstanding record of examination and scholarship success. We work closely with parents, providing advice on which school is most suitable for their child and the best path for them to take.”

Patrick Atkinson, Headmaster, Beechwood Park School www.beechwoodpark.net

Travel

10

Tips For Holidaying with Friends

By James Wignall

There are many benefits to holidaying with friends such as shared costs, larger properties, friends on tap for the kids, joint childcare opportunities and a guaranteed social life. But there are many potential pitfalls too which could affect your friendship and even your marriage…

After many holidays with friends and family we think these are the 10 essential tips for a successful joint family holiday.

1) Discuss potential pitfalls before you book your holiday so there are no awkward surprises.

Beaches or Museums? KidszClubz or quality family time? Expensive guided excursions or free nature walks? Everyone has a different idea of the perfect family holiday, and that’s fine, just ensure your expectations and your daily budgets are discussed ahead of time so there’s no embarrassment or arguments.

2) Agree price brackets for meals out together beforehand.

Nobody likes being pressured into eating where they’d prefer not to. If you can’t agree, don’t compromise: you’ll be happier if you go your separate ways to dine and hook back up afterwards. You can always blame the kids (or husband…) for not liking X, Y or Z. 3) Ensure you ring fence some quality family time alone.

Ensure you make time for just your family. Make sure you get to go exactly where you want, do what you want to do and when you want to do it. This also gives you time to chat together, let off steam and release any inter-familial tension that may have developed.

4) Separate vehicles are essential.

Never be tempted to share a people carrier or minivan with another family.

You need your space. And an escape plan (even if it’s only temporary).

5) Some boundaries must be agreed on and stuck to.

Obviously presenting an entire rule book to the other family might not be a good idea, so choose your battles carefully. If your kids meal times are sacrosanct, then say so and plan accordingly. If you hate being woken up at 4.00 a.m then lay down the law… It’s your holiday.

Center Parcs Woburn Forest to open this Spring While we're still waiting on the opening date of Center Parcs' fifth location at Woburn Forest as we go press, details of the activities and accomodation on offer have now been revealed.

Along with family favourites which are already enjoyed at the other four Villages such as Tree Trekking, kayaking and fencing, there will also be a range of innovative activities to expand and improve the choices for young children available in the Activity Den including Mucky Pups, Chocolate Little Chef, Party in the Den, Woodland Adventurer and Forest Academy Crafts.

For more info and to book: www.centerparcs.co.uk

Something to stop the nip in the air

6) Don’t interfere in the other marriage.

Don’t show any disapproval of the other couple’s divisions of labour or parenting techniques. Unless it directly affects you or your family’s holiday then it’s none of your business. (Until you return home of course).

7) Rent a property with as many bathrooms as you can afford.

You think your spouse takes ages…you might be surprised by other husbands/children etc too.

8) Never buy presents, ice creams, souvenirs etc. just for your own kids.

Check with the other parents first or at least agree on a price bracket / size of souvenir or present before purchasing (or at least be discreet about it).

9) Agree fixed meeting points for fixed times for when you get separated.

Some kids (and adults) get bored long before others, so don’t force them to hang around waiting for everyone else.

10) Don’t force grumpy kids to ‘make up’ if they don’t feel like it.

It’s not just adults that get bored, tired, hot, sweaty and start fights. Regular Time Outs are necessary for everyone.

I'm always planning ahead for my summer holiday. And this windbreak from Norfolk-based www.gonecrabbing.co.uk caught my eye. Featuring colossal crustacean Colin the Crab, it's just the job for a seaside picnic and perfect for keeping the sand out of your sandwiches. It will also come in handy when caravanning, camping, festivals or even for keeping your BBQ protected from unwelcome wind.

With its own handy little carry bag, it will be available online (www.gonecrabbing.co.uk) or the Gone Crabbing shops in Norfolk and Suffolk, price £68, from July onwards.

To advertise: 01727 373929

March/April 2014

13

What’s On Please always phone before setting out in case Welfare Association; Rabbit Costume details have changed since press deadline or if Competition. we got it wrong.

More info: www.hularescue.org tel: 01908 584000.

Please send events to be listed to: editor@familiesbedfordshire.co.uk.

Stotfold Mill re-opens Sunday 16, 30 March & Sunday 13, 27 April MARCH Historic working watermill and nature reserve. Free “Chat-in” parent and toddler group admission.

Meet: Methodist Church, Ampthill (the entrance is More info: www.stotfoldmill.com or in Chandos Road). Every Wednesday between tel. 01462 734541.

9.15am -11.15am in term time. £2 includes tea, coffee, biscuits and cake.

Toddler Time Friday 21 March, 11am NCT Nearly New Sale Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton Saturday 1 March Fun and creative activities for ages 3 - 5. £3.

Watling Lower School, Bullpond Lane, Dunstable Booking: 01582 548600.

11.15am - 12.30pm (early entry at 11am for members) Family Folk Show with Megson More info: nnsdunstable@yahoo.co.uk.

Saturday 22 March, 2pm The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton World Book Day events Keynes Gentle, entertaining concert specially Thursday 6 March 1-2pm created for pre-school children, featuring children’s Alameda Middle School Library, Ampthill. folk songs old.

Aimed at children and parents of the school.

Tickets: £8 adults, £7 under-16s, £28 family of four More info: www.stables.org Saturday 8 March 10-1pm Parkside Hall, Woburn Road, Ampthill NCT Nearly New Sale Open to the public. Children are asked to bring in a Saturday 29 March, 2.15-3.30pm book they have read and swap it for another one.

(2pm entry for members) They are invited to make a small donation to the Stratton Upper School, Eagle Farm Road, National Literacy Trust. www.literacytrust.org.uk Biggleswade. £1 admission (in aid of NCT charity) More info: 0844 243 6052 or Both events are sponsored by Kumon Ampthill. www.biggleswade-nct.org.uk More info tel: 01525 860279.

So Crafty: Mother’s Day Bunting Scale Model Exhibition Day Saturday 29 March, 11am - 12.30pm Sunday 9 March Stockwood Discovery Centre, Craft Courtyard, Shuttleworth Collection, Shuttleworth (Old Warden) London Road, Luton Aerodrome, Near Biggleswade Create a lovely bunting for Mother’s Day with you More info: www.shuttleworth.org or own design and message. tel. 01767 627927 Suitable for ages 6+. £12.50 per person.

Booking: So Crafty tel. 07857 413031 Nearly New Sale Saturday 15 March, 2-4pm.

So Crafty: Mother’s Day Cookies Athletic Stadium, Barkers Lane Bedford Sunday 30 March, 11am - 12.30pm Baby equipment, children’s clothes from birth, Stockwood Discovery Centre, Craft Courtyard, bedding, sleeping bags, quality pre-school toys, London Road, Luton maternity clothes. Organised by Friends of Bedford Learn how to decorate cookies with royal icing and Hospital. sugarpaste.

More info: Melanie on 0755-2906157 or Suitable for ages 6+. £12.50 per person. email: new2u2@hotmail.co.uk Booking: So Crafty tel. 07857 413031

Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats Saturday 5 April, 11 – 11.45am, Stopsley Library Saturday 5 April, 2.15 – 3pm, Luton Central Library T S Eliot's beloved cats are introduced in verse. 5+ years. Free

Bunny Bonanza! & Spring Open Day Sunday 16 March, 1pm-3.30pm HULA Animal Rescue, South Midlands Animal Sanctuary, Glebe Farm, Salford Road, Aspley Guise Bargains in the Bazaar; Meet the Rabbit

Weird and Wonderful animal orchids - Fun, facts & craft

Mums come free!

Sunday 30 March Snakes and Ladders, Blackburn Road, Houghton Regis, Dunstable Free entry for Mum on Mothers Day. With Facebook voucher from 1 March: www.facebook.com/snakesdunstable More info: www.snakes-and-ladders.co.uk Tel: 01582 660 111 APRIL Children & their Carers’ Health & Wellbeing Event Tuesday 1 April, 10am – 1pm, Stopsley Library Information, advice and guidance for children & their parents, grandparents or guardians.

Colouring, face-painting and a bouncy castle. Free Caritas Harmony Choir Concert Saturday 5 April, 7pm St Augustine's Church, Icknield Way, Luton Tickets £7. More info: Brenda 01582 873656 or Fay 01763 853696.

DISCOVER STOTFOLD’S HISTORIC WORKING WATERMILL, TEA ROOM AND NATURE RESERVE FREE ADMISSION

MILL LANE, STOTFOLD, SG5 4NU WWW.STOTFOLDMILL.COM

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March/April 2014

Easter Egg Hunt John Bunyan Museum, Mill Street, Bedford Saturday 5 April – Saturday 19 April (closed Good Friday) More info: www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum Easter Bunny Bonanza!

Saturday 5-Monday 21 April Mead Open Farm, Stanbridge Road, Billington Every day, you can earn a chocolate treat by hunting for eggs in Hoppy’s new Hamlet, meet real Easter Chicks, stroke new friends in Bunny Hop and more! Plus, Mead Open Farm's magical new Topsy Turvy Towers Adventure Play Area which is open from 5 April. With a separate area just for under 5’s, there’s fun and excitement for all ages!

More info: www.meadopenfarm.co.uk or phone 01525 852954 Hullabazoo Farm Saturday 5 – Sunday 6 April Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable Special guests, Peppa Pig and her family, making appearances throughout the day. Plus, new animals including pygmy goats, a Gloucester old spot pig and some rabbits.

More info: www.zsl.org/whipsnade Easter Egg Hunt Sunday 6 April St John's Hospice, Moggerhanger, Bedford £3 per child. Adults free. All participants take home an Easter egg!

More info tel. 01767 642423 or email kim.munns@sueryder.org.

Monday 7 April, 10am, 11am, 1pm & 2pm Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Bedford Have a go at making an animal orchid, find out about these strange plants and take part in our animal quiz. £3.50 per child.

More info tel. 01234 767037 or email anna.charles@marstonvale.org to book.

Park Town Playscheme Monday 7 – Thursday 17 April, 10.20am – 12pm Park Town Community Centre, Bailey Street, Luton Easter holidays playscheme featuring cooking, crafts, fun, games and trips.

5 – 10 years. £1 per child per day (excluding trips)

Snocamps Monday 7-Friday 18 April Snozone Xscape, 602 Marlborough Gate, Central Milton Keynes Children aged 7-15 years can keep fit, learn new skills and meet new friends on the slopes.

North Beds NCT Nearly New Sale Saturday 5 April, entry from 11.45am (or 11.30am www.snozoneuk.com or phone: 0871 222 5673 with an NCT membership card) Bedford Athletics Stadium, Barkers Lane, Bedford Wet in wet, Sgraffito and Resist Nearly new quality toys, books, baby and children's Tuesday 8 April, 11am - 1pm; 2 - 4pm The Higgins, Castle Lane, Bedford clothes, linens, nurser6y equipment, prams and Have a taste of what you can do with watercolour pushchairs. £1 per person. painting. £2.20 per child. Ages 3 plus.

More info email: northbedschair@nct.co.uk More info: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

www.familiesbedfordshire.co.uk

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Tuesday 8 April, 11 – 11.45am, Luton Central Library Thursday 10 April, 11 – 11.45am, Marsh Farm Library Celebrate 25 years of Michael Rosen's and Helen Oxenbury's classic in search of a bear. 3+ years. Free Ridgmont Station reopens!

Tuesday 8 April, 10am-4pm Restored ticket & booking office, plus shop. Cafe open all year round. More info: www.marstonvalecommunityrail.org.uk Easter Bonnet Workshop Tuesday 8 April, 10am – 12pm, Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton Saturday 12 April, 11am – 4pm, Wardown Park Museum, Old Bedford Road, Luton Make your own Easter bonnet with recycled materials and craft materials, with the help of an artist. 7 – 10 years. £5.

Easter Craft Fayre Saturday 12 April Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable More info: www.grovetheatre.co.uk Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats Saturday 12 April, 11 – 11.45am, Leagrave Library, Saturday 12 April, 2.15 – 3pm, Marsh Farm Library T S Eliot's beloved cats are introduced in verse. 5+ years. Free Library Hare’s Hidden Treasure – Fun, facts & craft Monday 14 April, 10am, 11am, 1pm & 2pm Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Bedford Hear about the jewelled hare and hidden treasure.

Make your own treasure map of the park. £3.50 per child - booking essential. Booking tel. 01234 767037 or email anna.charles@marstonvale.org Easter Eggspress W/c Monday 14 April: date tbc Bedford-Bletchley line More info: www.marstonvaleocmmunityrailorg or phone: 01234 832645 Wonder Wool Tuesday 15 April, 11am – 1pm; 2 – 4pm The Higgins, Castle Lane, Bedford Find out something of the historical importance of sheep and wool. Make a felted friend. £2.20 per child. Age 3+ More info: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Trees for wood Wednesday 9 April, 11am – 1pm; 2 – 4pm The Higgins, Castle Lane, Bedford Identify different trees, learn to draw their shapes and match the wood that comes from them. £2.20 per child. Age 3+.

More info: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk The Sooty Show Wednesday 9 April, 11am & 2.30pm Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable More info: www.grovetheatre.co.uk Family Fun Wednesdays Wednesday 9 & 16 April, 9.30am-5pm Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes Special activities for all the family.

More info: www.bletchleypark.org.uk Pulling Power Friday 11 April, 11am – 1pm; 2 – 4pm The Higgins, Castle Lane, Bedford Make a model tractor. £2.20 per child. Age 3+ More info: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Foyer Garden Wednesday 16 April, 11am – 1pm; 2 – 4pm The Higgins, Castle Lane, Bedford Help us bring The Higgins foyer into bloom. Make paper daffodils and other spring flowers. £2.20 per child. Age 3+.

More info: www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Thursday 10 April, 11-11.45am Lewsey Library, Luton Celebrate 25 years of Michael Rosen's and Helen Oxenbury's classic in search of a bear. 3+ years. Free Snakes and Ladders Easter Egg Scramble Friday 18 - Monday 21 April Snakes and Ladders, Blackburn Road, Houghton Regis, Dunstable Easter Egg Scramble and race around the playframe for hidden Easter Eggs.

More info: www.snakes-and-ladders.co.uk.

Tel: 01582 660 111

Cadbury Easter Egg Trail 18 April -22 April, 11am-4pm  Dunstable Downs, Chiltern Gateway Centre, Whipsnade Road, Dunstable All tickets £2 per trail. More info tel. 01582 500920

 an 3 months fiveHunt yearsat Banana There will be Easterto Egg Moon Lower Sundon on07:30am 12 April from 11.00  Open from to 18:30pm am – 12.30 pm, foryear all ages to find.

51 with weekseggs of the We will have reflecting showcasing the  activities Secure, rural location wide variety of creative activities which we do  Vouchers accepted & funding with the children at our nursery; so come along available and make rabbit ear headbands, design your “when I finish lunch I am own egg and socialise withmy friends and family of a full moon” Banana Moon! £1 entry into the Easter Egg Hunt. Call us on 01525874114 or email info@bananamoon-lowersundon.co.uk for more information.

Banana Moon Day Nursery Manor Farm Court, Lower Sundon, Bedfordshire LU3 3NZ

Tel: 01525 874114 www.bananamoon-lowersundon.co.uk

Festival of Power Friday 18 - Sunday 20 April Santa Pod Raceway, Airfield Road, Podington Family drag racing entertainment. www.santapod.co.uk Easter Adventure Quest Adventurers wanted Friday 18 April - Monday 21 April, 11am-6pm Wrest Park, Silsoe, Luton Adventurers wanted this Easter weekend! Join our quest, meet characters from the past and crack the clues as you explore English history. Rise to the challenge and you’ll reap a chocolate reward. It's time to get hands-on with the past. Prices (includes entry to House & Grounds): Adult £9.00 / Child £5.40 / Concession £8.10 / Family £23.40 Members: Free More info: www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Saturday 19 April, 11 – 11.45am, Stopsley Library Saturday 19 April, 2.15 – 3pm, Luton Central Library Saturday 26 April, 11 – 11.45am, Leagrave Library Saturday 26 April, 2.15 – 3pm, Marsh Farm Library Revisit Ian Fleming's tales of the flying car and discover Chitty's new adventures

by Frank Cottrell Boyce. 8+ years. Free Classic Car Show & Auto-Aero Jumble: Sunday 20 April Shuttleworth Collection, Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Aerodrome, Near Biggleswade More info: www.shuttleworth.org or tel. 01767 627927 Easter Trail Sunday 20- Monday 21 April, 11am-4pm Marston Vale Forest Centre, Station Road, Bedford A self-lead trail around the Park to get your family out and about and enjoy a wildlife themed quiz. £2 per child includes prize. No booking.

More info tel. 01234 767037 Meet the Easter Bunny Sunday 20 April -Monday 21 April Leighton Buzzard Railway, Pages Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard.

More info: www.buzzrail.co.uk Stockwood Country Fair Sunday 20-Monday 21 April, 11am – 4.30pm Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road, Luton.

A taste of the countryside, with rural life demonstrations, local craft stalls and more for all the family. £3.50 adults, £3 concessions, children & Culture Card More info: www.lutonculture.com Easter Eggstravaganza Monday 21 April, 9.30am-5pm Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes Easter Egg trail around Bletchley Park. www.bletchleypark.org.uk

Peppa Pig Meet & Greet Saturday 26 April Mead Open Farm, Stanbridge Road, Billington Children’s TV favourite Peppa Pig will be making a special visit to Mead Open Farm! With several St George's Day appearances at intervals throughout the day, Saturday 18 April, 10-4pm families with toddlers and young children will love to Priory Gardens, Dunstable see her. With all the extra fun included in entry and Free St George's Day event with entertainment for plenty more farm fun, you won’t want to miss it! all the family. More info tel. 01582 891420 More info: www.meadopenfarm.co.uk or phone 01525 852 954 Alice in Wonderland St George’s Festival 18, 19, 20 & 21 April, Saturday 26 April - Sunday 27 April, 10am – 6pm Grove Theatre, Grove Park, Court Drive, Dunstable Wrest Park, Silsoe, Luton.

An Easter pantomime for the whole family.

Discover the man behind the myth as you immerse More info: www.grovetheatre.co.uk yourself in the story of England at the biggest St Easter Extravaganza Friday 18- Monday 21 April Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable Easter trail and Easter themed talks.

More info: www.zsl.org/whipsnade

George’s Day celebration in the country. Prices per event day (includes entry to House & Grounds): Adult £15.00 / Child £9.20 / Concession £13.50 / Family £39.20. Members: Adult £6.20 / Child £3.90 / Concession £5.90 / Family £16.30 Tickets: 0870 333 1183 (Mon – Fri 8.30am – 5.30 Sat 9am – 5pm). www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrest

To advertise: 01727 373929

March/April 2014

15

News and Reviews

Easter Egg Hunts galore this Spring!

CALLING ALL PARENTS! Our business is exploding and we need help!

We are three busy parents working together to help busy parents find the ideal work/life balance.

While you probably know that Easter was originally a pagan festival - the ancient Saxons celebrated spring with a party in honour of its goddess, Eastre.

You may, however, not be aware that the Easter bunny originated with the pagan festival of Eastre, as she was worshipped by the Anglo-Saxons through her earthly symbol, the rabbit. And, that the first documented use of the bunny as a symbol of Easter appears in Germany in the 1500s, and it was the Germans who made the first edible Easter bunnies in the 1800s.

Back in the here and now, and kicking off at Wrest Park in Silsoe, there is an Easter Adventure Quest taking place over the Easter weekend with plenty of clues on hand to explore English history and reap a chocolate reward, if you're successful.

Would an £200 to £300 per month make a difference to the family budget?

Do you need an extra income in order to give your kids more activities and treats?

Is finding flexible work proving difficult whilst juggling parenthood?

We are looking for parents who want a challenge while running a business from home.

Interested? Call Bianca on 07951 212 879 www.motherbynature.co.uk

New! Adventure Playground Alongside stacks of Easter Bunny fun, the new huge Topsy Turvy Towers Adventure Playground opens this Easter.

The Easter Bunny is busy this Easter as he jumps on board Leighton Buzzard's Light Railway on 20-21 April, featuring extra steam trains.

Opens l i 5 Apr

Entering a land of treetop towers, wobbly bridges and upside down trees, you'll find so much to do.

Grab yourself an Cadbury's egg at Dunstable Downs where their Easter Egg Trail will be underway between 18-22 April. Finally, head down to Bletchley Park for a Easter Eggstravaganza trail around the Park on Monday 21 April.

T: 01525 852954

Mead Open Farm, Billington, Nr Leighton Buzzard, LU7 9JH

For more info on all of the above events, see our What's On pages.

Ed’s Reading Room

MOF-AM-14-017 Ad 118x70.indd 1 I’m Ed and here is my Spring book selection for you to enjoy. The books 12/02/2014 Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! are all available online at www.edontheweb.com and from good bookstores. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS Arthur and the Witch by Johanne Mercier (Phoenix Yard Books £4.99)

My Funny Family Gets Bigger by Chris Higgins (Hodder £4.99)

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS The Great Brain Robbery by Anna Kemp (Simon and Schuster £5.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Arthur discovers a secret hiding-place full of blueberries and picks lots of them as a surprise for his grandmother. She is delighted and makes a pie for Arthur and his grandfather but when she realises where Arthur found the fruit she becomes rather worried. So Grandma calls Cousin Eugene who she knows will have good advice in these difficult - but amusing - circumstances.

ED SAYS: ‘Mattie is excited about going back to school but realises not all children are as happy as she is, particularly one of her sisters whose rather odd behaviour causes a lot of concern. The family are expecting a very special delivery at Christmas time - could this be part of the explanation? In this delightfully humorous tale, the strength of family life shines through.

ED SAYS: ‘All the children in Frankie’s class are desperate to get their hands on the latest toy, a mechanimal. Frankie is delighted to receive a Gadget the Rabbit for his birthday but it soon becomes obvious that all is not right. There is a dreadful scheme afoot to infiltrate children’s minds using these robot toys. Will Frankie and his friends be able to stop this evil scheme before it is too late?

‘This is a super story for boys and girls alike, reading on their own or reading together - and it is complemented by fantastic illustrations throughout.’

‘This lovely book with its super illustrations will be enjoyed by newly-confident readers. It is also ideal for reading together.’

‘This madcap action-packed adventure is a real page-turner. There are fantastic characters in this laugh out loud tale that is enhanced by amusing illustrations.’

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