Families Edinburgh September October 2017

Brand New Venue & Classes!

DRAMA CLASSES FOR KIDS AND TEENS 7-12 Years, 13 + Years & KIDs DraMa ParTIes!

Acting • Singing • Dancing • Make New Friends Build Confidence • Exams • Shows • Casting Agency www.actingoutdramaschool.com hello@actingoutdramaschool.com Facebook/actingoutuk 07704 714 607

F & F available in Tesco stores nationwide

Issue 104 September/October 2017

Tel: 0131 622 0405

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Welcome to the back to school issue of Families Edinburgh.

Whether you have a child going to school for the first time or they’re moving up to a new class it’s a big time of year for everyone.

This issue is jammed full of clubs, classes, activities and news to help you on your way.

So shiny new shoes on and bags packed let’s get this new term off to a cracking start!

Sarah What’s inside...

3–5 6 7 – 11 12 13 14 – 19 20 – 23

Local News and Views Moving Home - What’s the Catch(ment)?

School News and Open Days Sport FUNdamentals Clubs and Classes Directory Clubs and Classes Round Up From Athletics to Xylophone playing we’ve got it all!

Out and About

ON THE COVER • Girls Pinafore from £7.00 • Scallop neck polo (2 pack) from £2.50 • Socks from £3.00 • Patent Mary Janes £14.00 F & F available in Tesco stores nationwide

NEXT ISSUE

It’s Chriiiiiistmaaas!

Local gift ideas • Panto • Where to see Santa • Local Shopping and so much more.

BOOKINGS TAKEN NOW 2 Families Edinburgh

Get in Touch Editor: Sarah Adair

E

editor@familiesedinburgh.com

T 0131 622 0405

Find us on Facebook @FamiliesEdinburghMagazine Follow us on Twitter @FamiliesEdinbur

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news and

views

The Montessori Mornings community is now in its third year!

Downes Opticians Downes Opticians have extended there expertise in children’s eye care with their Myopia Control programme which can slow down the progression of short sightedness by up to 50% in children and young adults. They are one of the few Opticians in Scotland specialising in this area. For more information contact the practice on 0131 553 5358 or visit www.downesopticians.com.

register for Wear a Hat Day 2018 and start planning your event!

At “parent classrooms” in Bruntsfield and Stockbridge, families spend quality time on educational activities, guided by Montessori teachers Sorour and Rosita. Children choose freely from any curriculum area and round off the experience with art, singing and their own snack table. “Everything is designed for the needs and interests of little ones,” says Sorour. “Real tools like jugs, locks, tongs and scissors really engage them and grow their attention span. Those who come regularly see the benefits of the Montessori approach.” As consistency is key, pricing is set up to encourage membership. A 10-session Daisy Card comes with bonuses such as discounts on sessions and workshops, a parent newsletter and library, and free Montessori resources. See www.montessorimornings.com for details.

Wear A Hat Day is the UK’s premier brain tumour research fundraising event. It takes place on Thursday 29th March 2018. Schools and families across the country get involved to help raise funds for research into brain tumours.

Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer… yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease.

Families are being left devastated by this dreadful disease.

Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK that is purely dedicated to raising funds for continuous and sustainable scientific research into brain tumours.

More information, event ideas and fundraising tips can be found online: www.wearahatday.org.

Register now on www.wearahatday.org and start planning your hattastic fundraising event.

stay Healthy this autumn with salt Therapy From the minute they start nursery, you just know you’re in for a rocky ride as children seem to pick up every little virus that’s going. Not to mention reports of illnesses like asthma, allergies, hay fever and eczema on the increase...

If something could help boost your child’s immune system, strengthen their resistance to viruses and increase their energy levels, all 100% natural, safe, and drug-free, would you think “too good to be true”? Well, it really is true and it’s called Salt Therapy.

Based in Marchmont (opposite Doodles) is the lovely Edinburgh Baby Co - packed full of everything mum, bump and baby could want or need. Everything from baby clothing to nursery furniture, maternity wear to baby skin care - and much, much more.

Sign up for their newsletter via their website www.edinburghbabyco.com for exclusive offers and sale events.

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Suitable for all ages, salt therapy is particularly effective in children, who react quickly to natural healing methods. As they play, they inhale dry salt infused air deep into their lungs.

Salt works to help reduce inflammation, loosen mucus, eliminate bacteria and other germs, and open clogged passageways, making their breathing easier after just a few sessions.

Children do not even realise that they are having a therapy, they just feel so much better afterwards, and you will notice a significant difference as the benefits increase with each and every treatment.

The Salt Cave, Meadowbank, Edinburgh, is open Tuesday to Saturday and your first session is FREE! 0131 510 1091 www.saltcave.co.uk

Families Edinburgh 3

news and

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academic Families

Enjoy an international family experience in the comfort of your own home Academic Families, Scotland’s premier guardian agency, has brave teenagers who come to Scottish boarding schools from all over the world. They live in boarding school during term time but want to learn more than schoolwork and English - they want to share their culture with a British family and enjoy some family fun.

Hosting an international teenager for a couple of weekends a term is a fantastic way for your children to experience first-hand the benefits of learning another language and travelling abroad.

Hosts are fully supported by the Guardianship team as Academic Families remains responsible for students at all times. Hosts are never on their own – in fact you simply have all the fun getting to know an interesting young person and including them in your family.

Hosts vary enormously – many have children living at home, while others’ children have moved out or are active grandparents. All hosts have sound family values, a sense of fun and adventure and a spare bedroom. They want to broaden their own outlook and enrich an international child’s life here in Edinburgh by providing a Scottish ‘home’ for them.

Expenses are reimbursed including a nightly allowance so you won’t be out of pocket.

‘Our children finally understand why they learn Spanish - they have been able to chat with Manuel in two languages! To our delight, they both volunteered to go on their school exchanges because ‘the family is bound to be as nice as us!’

Your first step to hosting is to contact Academic Families and discuss expectations and discover if hosting is for you.

If Hosting isn’t for you at this time but you are actively involved in your community, Academic Families would also love to hear from you as they are looking for a team of host recruiters to help find more fabulous host families.

To find out more contact Academic Families – 0131 331 3317, roni@academicfamilies.com as they are recruiting now for hosts for their great fun children starting at Edinburgh schools now.

4 Families Edinburgh

Getting your home ready to sell We’ve all seen the TV programmes where sellers can’t comprehend that no one would want to buy their home because they’ve always loved the carpeted walls…

The thing about taste, and our homes, is that they are personal to us. If you are trying to sell your home then potential buyers need to be able to see themselves living in your space.

And that is where home staging can come in.

Jane Marie-Smith is a property consultant and can work with you to create a neutral, light and appealing atmosphere.

Here are her 5 top tips*: 1. Make the first impressions count – most buyers make up their mind about a property within 30 seconds of viewing it.

2. De-clutter and de-personalise – removing clutter can increase your chances of selling.

The more people interested, the higher the price you get.

3. Freshen décor – you will drive offers and price if the décor is fresh so consider painting any ‘tired’ rooms with neutral warm tones and keep furnishings to a minimum.

4. Define each room – if you have a room without a strong sense of identity and purpose, change it so buyers see the full potential, e.g. a box storage room becomes an office.

5. Don’t forget outdoor space – it can be a key selling feature. If there’s no garden, consider window boxes or bring the outdoors indoors with a few plants.

Jane-Marie Smith runs Simple Living, providing bespoke practical support and advice in all areas of your home.

From tidying, de-cluttering, and storage solutions to planning and managing projects including selling and moving house - home staging, downsizing, removals, redecoration and any renovation requirements including all trades. www.simplelivingedinburgh.com or call Jane for a free consultation on 0131 563 7557.

Prices from £250 for a home staging report. * as featured in ESPC Magazine

Le Petit Jardin d’enfants We are very excited to announce the opening of Le Petit Jardin d’Enfants at the French Institute.

This unique French pre-school (3-5 years) provides a happy and relaxed environment in which children will immerse themselves in the French language and culture through games, songs, arts and crafts and role play.

Our native French teacher puts children’s social, emotional and intellectual development at the centre of her practice, combining the French national curriculum with the Scottish Early Years programme. Le Petit Jardin d’Enfants offers the best of both worlds: we prepare children for primary school and give them a solid head start in language learning, in accordance with the Scottish Government’s 1+2 approach.

Monday-Friday, 9.15-12.15 am and 12.30-3.30 pm, during Edinburgh City Council term times.

To enable children to make steady progress and reach their full potential, a minimum of two sessions is required. For pre-registering information, contact founding manager and teacher Catherine on 07855 203 254 or lepetitjardindenfants9@gmail.com. To enrol, contact the French Institute on 0131 225 53 66 or frenchclasses@ifecosse.org.uk

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7 top tips to make exercise a habit With the kids going back to school (do I hear a sigh of relief?), now is the perfect opportunity to start the new term on a healthy routine. If you have struggled in the past to make exercise a lasting healthy habit, fear no more!

There are some easy things you can do to make it really stick this time.

Make exercise your ‘go to’ stress and tiredness buster.

Here is the thing: exercise gives you a natural energy boost. So forget chocolate, wine, and other treats – save them for social occasions. Instead, opt for some exercise – a gym session, a run, some yoga, a walk around the block. Sometimes, 10 minutes is all it takes and you feel so much better – and all without the extra calories!

Stop thinking Once you have decided, get regular slot(s) booked into your diary and just do it. Classes are great as you can book them into your diary for the same day and time each week, and when you have paid for them you have an extra incentive to go.

The goal behind the goal You might have a goal that you want to achieve but what will really keep you going is the ‘goal behind the goal’. So think about what reaching our goal will allow you to do – what will you be able to do when you are fitter, have lost some weight, or gained some strength? It might be being able to keep up with the kids, lying on the beach with a new bikini, or signing up to that 5k with friends.

Stack habits You are more likely to drop a habit if it is not fully integrated into your life. Stacking habits means you attach your new exercise habit to something else you like doing. Maybe you can listen to your favourite tune on the way to your workout, have a coffee with friends or fellow exercisers after, or walk past your fav shop for a wee nosey on your way home.

Beano the Clown Magic, Balloons, Songs & Games -5s & +5s, 1hr & 2 hr,

Tel: 07948-070 569 Web: Beano.theclown.free.fr

Let someone else do the planning for you Doing a workout on your own can be daunting. You might feel uncertain what exercises to do or how to build up your running. By joining a class or trying a Personal trainer, you can leave the planning to someone else, and all you need to do is to show up with your trainers and a bottle of water.

Smile If it’s fun it’s more likely that you will come back.

So put a smile on your face and and start releasing feel good hormones the moment you are exercising. Also, a good instructor will make a class feel more like a party than a boring workout. Try to find a group to exercise with, have a chat, have a laugh, and feel even more fab.

Enjoy the buzz Exercise releases endorphins and leaves you on a high. Enjoy this short term reward and keep coming back for more – and the longterm goals will take care of themselves.

There are only a couple of natural changing points for habits during the year – and the end of summer is one of them. Why wait until New Year – make exercise a healthy habit now!

s Space e l b a l i Ava Call 0131 346 4459 Now! www.themurrayfieldnursery.co.uk

Brigitte is Head Coach, Personal Trainer, Triathlon Coach, and Exercise Psychology expert at Achievement Coaching. She runs Bootcamps at Bruntsfield Links on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and offers Personal Training and Running sessions. You can read the full article about forming healthy habits at www.achievementcoaching.co.uk.

TUTU TOTS A fantastic fun class for tiny twirlers from the age of 2 with a participating adult.

Drop in classes. No term commitment.

Tutu provided.

Check out or website for full range of classes at our North Edinburgh Dance Studio

Waterfront Dance studio Dancing fun For Everyone!

Waterfrontdance.co.uk

07772 504958 familiesonline.co.uk

Families Edinburgh 5

Moving home with kids what’s the catch(ment)?

Moving home can be stressful.

Moving home with pre-school or school-aged children can be even more so.

Ensuring your new family home is in the catchment area for your school of choice is a factor that is, surprisingly, often overlooked.

So, while you have probably researched local amenities, parking and council tax rates, have you taken time to double-check what school’s catchment area you will be moving to?

Scottish school system

Be prepared

The Scottish School System differs from the rest of the UK, in that Scottish cities and towns are divided into catchment areas, and councils suggest that you enrol your child in the school you are in the catchment area for.

If you have a preferred choice of school, that isn’t your catchment school, you have the right to apply for your child to attend there, and the council has a duty to grant you a place, if one is available. However, this won’t be guaranteed and will be dependent on the size of the school and the intake for that year.

Therefore, it is best that you consider the catchment area when deciding on any property purchase if you have school-age or pre-school children.

If you have your heart set on a particular school for your children to attend (perhaps you went there, or you have friends or family who already go), you should aim to buy your home within the catchment area for that school to avoid disappointment. But be prepared for house prices to increase within catchment areas for popular schools – it’s likely you won’t be the only ones looking to move for this reason!

And if you aren’t in the catchment area for your preferred school, be prepared for your application to be rejected. Especially for popular schools, this is likely, so you should make plans for your child to attend your second choice of school.

Do your homework

If you are unsure about catchment areas, or even just want some more information on amenities for kids in areas, it’s always good to speak to people who already live in the area.

Ask for honest advice and opinions on local schools, clubs, libraries and parks. These will be the people with the inside information.

If you’re looking at a new home, it might be easy to assume that you will be in the catchment area for a particular school in the locality.

Our advice is never to assume! Catchment areas are sometimes difficult to judge and they can change. You can check for up-to-date Edinburgh catchment areas at Edinburgh.gov.uk. You can also search by school catchment area on the ESPC website.

It might be worth checking how your local schools have been assessed. Education Scotland is the national body in Scotland for supporting quality and improvement in learning and teaching and have inspection reports that can be searched by postcode. www.education.gov.scot

6 Families Edinburgh

Get advice

At Gibson Kerr, we are always happy to discuss all areas of sales and purchases with our clients. Our aim is to take as much of the stress out of moving your family home as possible and we believe in being open, honest and fair with our clients every step of the way. Check out our online advice videos for answers to some of your home-moving questions.

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SChOOl NEWS ANd OpEN dAyS

A Unique Curriculum for the 21st Century Increasingly valued for its innovative approach, the Steiner curriculum develops analytical, logical and reasoning skills as education has always done, but it also encourages the development of imagination, creativity, memory and flexible thinking – skills highly prized in today’s society. Our young people are well-equipped to undertake the challenges of life and work in the information age. They are adaptable, enquiring and confident, with a global and environmental awareness, who understand how to make connections, to interpret information and to innovate.

What Makes Our Education Unique?

Creating International Citizens

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From Kindergarten to the final year (Class 12) subject matter is linked to a child’s developmental stage, which both inspires and motivates the pupils.

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The curriculum spans 12 years meaning secondary education flows naturally from what has been taught before.

Steiner schools form the largest group of independent nondenominational independent schools in the world and there are currently over 1,200 Steiner schools worldwide.

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Main Lessons, topic blocks which are studied daily by all students for around four weeks continue up to Class 12. They include subjects such as Astronomy, Farming, Philosophy, History of Art and Surveying. This programme ensures that, irrespective of their exam choices, all pupils receive a broad education which encompasses science, art, crafts and the humanities, and enables our pupils to develop a broader understanding of the world in which we live.

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Children learn by doing. In Kindergarten they climb trees, paint, hammer and cook. As they progress to formal education learning by doing continues to form an important part of Main Lessons. For example, during their Chemistry Main Lesson they build and fire a lime kiln from clay they have gathered themselves and wood they have chopped down.

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French and German are taught from the age of six years.

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The school welcomes children from all social, religious and ethnic backgrounds and a multicultural community is encouraged through an active exchange programme.

Each year a number of pupils from abroad attend our Upper School for up to a year or more. They are allocated boarding places with families closely connected with the school and are quickly absorbed among their peer group. This helps all our pupils to develop a wider understanding of the world in which they live. In the same way, our pupils have the opportunity to attend Steiner schools worldwide to broaden their horizons and improve their Modern Language skills.

Families Edinburgh 7

SChOOl NEWS ANd OpEN dAyS

‘A small school, big on heart and big on ambition’ Founded in 1827, Loretto is a boarding and day school for just over 600 boys and girls aged 0 – 18 set in an 85 acre leafy campus just to the east of Edinburgh.

Loretto is deliberately small, allowing a purposeful and caring family atmosphere.

There is a rigorous academic programme and high expectations, with first class pastoral care. The School is well known for its emphasis on the development of the whole person in mind, body and spirit and is made up of two parts - the Junior School and Nursery (0-12 years) and the Senior School (aged 12 and over).

Loretto Junior School (ages 0-12), affectionately known as ‘The Nippers’, is a special place. Here is a community where every individual matters, a School which offers the space and opportunity for everyone to find their own route to success whether in academic achievement, sport, art, music, drama or a host of other activities. The School’s size and campus enable pupils to enjoy the freedom of their childhood within a safe and caring environment.

Loretto Senior School (aged 12-18) develops intelligent, caring, creative, confident, compassionate and successful people who are at home anywhere in the world and doing the most amazing things. Loretto is placed in the top 7% of value-added nationally at A level.

Loretto's Golf Academy continues to attract keen and talented young golfers from all over the United Kingdom and beyond.

There are dedicated School buses to and from Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Flexible boarding options are available.

Financial support, worth up to 105% of the fees, is available.

Next Open Mornings; Loretto Junior School (0-12 years) Saturday, 16th September Loretto Senior School (12-18 years Saturday, 30th September

8 Families Edinburgh

Heriot’s has a reputation for excellence both in terms of academic success and extra-curricular provision. Our pupils are great individuals, brimming with confidence and pride in their school.

Heriot’s pupils continue to do extremely well in their examinations – due to the outstanding professionalism and skill of our talented staff and the natural flair, hard work and dedication of our pupils.

However, exam grades are only a small part of the picture. At all stages throughout the School, Heriot’s cultivates an ethos of care reinforced by outstanding guidance and our commitment to charitable fundraising and voluntary service. Our pupils also benefit from an extraordinary number of extra curricular activities, ranging from the 31 sports on offer to a huge variety of musical, dramatic and other possibilities; the emphasis is on taking part – in everything we do we want to encourage our young people to participate, to try hard and to be happy. This has resulted in Heriot’s becoming the first independent school in the UK to be awarded level 2 of the RightsRespecting School Award by UNICEF. For us, the highlight of our Open Morning, which is on Saturday 30 September, will once again be the turnout of pupils, Junior and Senior, volunteering to give up their Saturday to show prospective pupils and their parents their School. We hope you will join us for a happy and enjoyable morning and discover the warm community that is George Heriot’s School. You are also most welcome to visit the School on ‘normal’ days – visits are easily arranged by contacting our Admissions Department on 0131 221 6709.

Choosing a school for your child is a very important decision.

Our most important publicity come from our current and former pupils and parents so do please feel free to speak to them!

We look forward to meeting you and helping you discover what is behind the stones.

familiesonline.co.uk

SChOOl NEWS ANd OpEN dAyS Single Sex education If you are considering a single-sex school for your child links with brother or sister schools are vital. Edinburgh based schools, Merchiston and St George’s keep the genders separate in the classroom, where it matters most, meaning boys and girls have the confidence and self-assurance to flourish in lessons and on the sports field, free from stereotypes.

The schools run joint initiatives for social, co-curricular and academic activities and these ensure girls and boys can develop their social skills and relationships. There is also a joint fees discount scheme, and morning transport between the schools.

Alex Hems, Head of St George’s says: ‘When it comes to academic results, girls' schools regularly punch above their weight in national exams and dominate the top of the exam results league tables. At St George’s we are able to focus exclusively on girls and the way they learn most effectively. There are many advantages. Rather than standing back in practical lessons, girls have to get involved. They carry out the experiments in the sciences and design mechanical systems in engineering clubs; they take the lead in whatever subject they study. All the leadership roles and positions of responsibility in school go to girls and they grow in confidence as their voices are heard in every forum.’

Andrew Hunter, Headmaster at Merchiston says: “I am in no doubt our success is the result of our firm belief that a boys-only environment is best for boys; best for their academic achievement and best for developing their confidence and wellbeing. Our mantra is 'Boys first' because, in everything we do, we first ask ourselves the question "What's best for the boys?" The boys respond to this approach and for the most part, in return, develop a real work ethic. This is all part of the Merchiston way of life and is a major component in our examination results. Our 2016 results maintained Merchiston’s exceptional performance at A Level over a significant number of years, and demonstrated that our boys, as a cohort, are amongst the highest achieving boys in Scotland. What happens here is that boys learn to like learning more, whilst simultaneously having the time of their lives on our co-curricular programme.”

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A Family Education with ESMS ESMS are a unique family of independent schools for boys and girls in Edinburgh offering Nursery, Primary and Secondary education. Children are taught together from Nursery to Primary 7 after which they then enjoy the benefits of single-sex but very closely twinned senior education before joining together again in a co-educational Sixth Form.

The best start in life We are passionate about giving our children the very best opportunities, and for us that starts on day one. From age three, we welcome children into the ESMS family, where they immediately begin to benefit from all the resources our three schools have to offer. Our £1m Early Years Centre provides a safe and homely environment in which our girls and boys take their first educational steps. With a staff ratio of one adult to six children, we provide the individual and personalised attention that is so vital to a child’s healthy development.

Playful learning We believe it is never too early to inspire a child’s curious mind. That is why each of our pre-school classes is led by a qualified teacher, assisted by two Nursery Nurses and Teacher Assistants. Together they create a stimulating and supportive atmosphere in which our girls and boys learn through play.

Flexible childcare We have developed flexible childcare solutions to suit each family’s needs both during term time and school holidays, providing care from 7.50am to 6pm in our After-School Centre.

Happy community The Mary Erskine School was 1st in The Sunday Times Scottish Independent Secondary Schools League Table 2016. Stewart’s Melville College was named Scottish Independent Secondary of the Year in 2013, both for quality of education and extra-curricular opportunities available which include performing in The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the sixth time in 2017. From Nursery to Senior School we help our children to learn our Nine Values including kindness and respect and this creates a happy school community where each child feels valued.

Come along to our Open Day on Saturday 23 September, 10am-1pm, and find out more.

Families Edinburgh 9

SChOOl NEWS ANd OpEN dAyS All on One Campus Watson’s is characterised by a warmth often associated with smaller schools, but unashamedly exploits the advantage of size to the full. They work hard to help pupils to settle in, and it is arguably the warm welcome from the pupils that makes the biggest impact.

It is a close-knit community, where girls and boys from Nursery through to S6 share a caring, friendly and stimulating environment, from which to explore the many opportunities available to them.

Academically, Watson’s provides an unrivalled choice of subjects and levels. S5 and S6 pupils are able to choose between either SQA examinations or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB), as Watson’s is currently the only Scottish Secondary School to provide the IB alongside SQA qualifications.

However, the breadth of opportunity also extends beyond the classroom to a thriving extra-curricular scene. Outside the classroom the school aims to offer all pupils the chance to develop existing interests or discover new ones. Indeed, pupils are encouraged to challenge themselves both academically and during their extracurricular activities.

All of this requires committed staff and excellent facilities. The state-of-the-art George Watson’s Centre for Sport, provides magnificent unrivalled sporting facilities on campus for GWC pupils.

George Watson's College is ideally placed in the South of Edinburgh and can be easily accessed from East Lothian, Midlothian, West Lothian and the Peebles area.

All these places are serviced by buses organised through the school, as is Haymarket Station, for those travelling to Edinburgh by train.

Flexible wrap around and holiday care is available for younger pupils to fit the needs of family life.

Go along to their Open Morning on 7 October 2017, or arrange an individual visit, and see what it means to be part of the Watson’s family – you will get a warm welcome.

10 Families Edinburgh

Edinburgh Montessori Arts School is an independent nursery and primary school set in the beautiful green surroundings of Liberton and Blackford Hill. Our teachers and arts specialists are dedicated to inspiring children’s interests and guiding them to mastery.

The breadth and depth of the Montessori curriculum allows for a rich individualised experience. In meticulously designed environments that cater for each developmental stage, we provide a dynamic base for our children’s explorations of the wider world. By facilitating independence, whilst nurturing resilience and encouraging tolerance, we support children as they strive to be their best selves.

18N, Tower Mains Studios, Liberton Brae, Edinburgh EH16 6AE www.emaschool.co.uk

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SChOOl NEWS ANd OpEN dAyS

Fettes College Open Day - Sunday 8th October We are delighted to invite you to the Fettes College and Fettes College Preparatory School Open Day on Sunday 8th October 2017.

This relaxed and informal event is designed to give you a flavour of everything a Fettes education has to offer and gives you the opportunity to meet with current pupils, staff and parents.

All departments are open with a range of excellent demonstrations and presentations to inspire you and your family. As well as seeing our teaching facilities and discussing the curriculum, you can also visit our boarding houses; discuss our outstanding pastoral care; experience the 40+ extra-curricular activities we have on offer; view our extensive sporting facilities; and listen to music and drama performances throughout the afternoon. Tours will be given by current pupils and a number of current parents will be available to meet you and discuss their firsthand experiences of Fettes.

Open Day is also the ideal opportunity to meet our new Headmaster, Mr Geoffrey Stanford.

So, if you have ever wondered what attending Fettes College or Fettes Prep is really like, or simply wish to see what a Fettes education can offer your son or daughter, please contact our Admissions Department on admissions@fettes.com and they will be happy to provide further details.

Fettes College’s New Headmaster Mr Geoffrey Stanford Geoffrey Stanford is an inspiring appointment and brings to Fettes a rare and outstanding combination of achievements and experience from both the academic and the business world. The breadth of Mr Stanford’s activities bears testimony to his resourceful, resilient and caring character.

Most recently, he was Deputy Head in charge of the Co-Curricular programme at Sevenoaks School in Kent, one of the UK’s top IB schools. He was educated at Eton, where he received an Oppidan scholarship before going on to read Classics at St Hugh's College, Oxford. He served as a Captain in the Grenadier Guards and has worked for both The Boston Consulting Group and Citigroup. He also holds an MBA from INSEAD. Mr Stanford has taught Economics, Business Studies and Latin. He started teaching at Millfield School before spending nearly six years as a Boarding Housemaster and Head of Department at Pangbourne College.

Geoffrey has a wide range of interests and experiences. He has rowed for Eton, Sandhurst and the British Army at Henley; completed the Marathon des Sables and Devizes to Westminster canoe race; and taken part in a succession of expeditions to the Himalayas, including leading an international team to the summit of Mount Everest. He also enjoys playing the French horn. He is married to Susanna and they have two young sons.

“I am delighted and honoured to have been invited to lead this remarkable school. I have been particularly struck by the warmth and energy of its community. I am looking forward with great excitement to helping pupils from all walks of life benefit from the opportunities of an education at Fettes.”

Photograph by Angus Bremner

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Mr Geoffrey Stanford

Families Edinburgh 11

Sport FUNdamentals Getting your under 5s involved in sport and activity is an excellent way to improve their health, support their development and form active and healthy habits for the rest of their lives. And it’s never too young to start.

There’s a range of providers, like Edinburgh Leisure, who offer sport and activity coaching activities from pre-schoolers right up to teenagers and beyond. There’s plenty of opportunities on offer; swimming lessons, gymnastics, tennis, dance or football are just a few. With so many long-term benefits, investing in your child’s physical fitness through a coached programme, will pay dividends on many levels.

It’s not about them becoming elite athletes in the future, although that might be one of the outcomes, it’s about ensuring they have skills for life that can be used on the sports field, in the playground and in general everyday situations.

A highly experienced coach who is qualified to work with early years, will get the best from your child, adapting their coaching language and activities to suit the individual and the group, ensuring everyone reaches their full potential.

It’s as much about putting the FUN into coaching as it is in establishing the FUNdamentals of that particular sport, and in developing the agility, balance and coordination skills that will support them as they develop into sport and lead an active lifestyle.

So, what can you hope your child will gain from being coached: • They’ll learn to interact with other children their own age, which is as important in the playground as it is in later life, through equipping them with both social and emotional skills.

• They’ll explore movements that are fundamental to their ongoing growth and development.

• They’ll develop strength, flexibility and spatial awareness, which can be applied to lots of different situations, not just in sport.

• They’ll learn active listening, which can be used not only in a sporting environment but also in the classroom and social situations.

• By applying this active listening, they can use the techniques learnt, to build upon and improve their own ability in whatever it is they are striving to achieve.

• Being coached ultimately helps improve concentration, competence and confidence.

If you’ve ever watched kids in a playground, you’ll have seen the three elements of fitness in action: endurance (running away from the kid who’s it); strength (swinging across the monkey bars); and flexibility (bending down to tie their shoes).

They’ll learn a solid foundation for participation in any sport through a multi-skills approach. Say for example they want to be a great cricketer, a great footballer, a great tennis player, they need to have the skills of a track and field athlete.

They must be able to run all day, have to be able to sprint, have hand-eye coordination.

A good coach will teach that hard-work, perseverance and determination pays off yet whilst practice can make perfect, it’s about being motivated to be the best you can be, not everyone else.

Choosing the right coaching programme for your child

With so many activities and sports on offer, this can be a challenge. There is no right or wrong approach to this. As a starting place, start with a sport that your child perhaps shows an interest in. Speak to other parents and look out for the option for taster days which many organisations offer, which will allow your child to try before you buy and narrow down the choices.

Whatever coaching programme you settle on though, the time spent nurturing your child, will be invaluable.

Whilst not every child is going to turn into the next Andy Murray, any multi-skills coaching approach will be sure to deliver at least one, if not all the following skills in your child: competence, confidence, connection, creativity, character and caring and will be money well spent, whatever your child’s ability.

www.edinburghleisure.co.uk 12 Families Edinburgh

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Clubs&Classes DIRECTORY We’ve put together a handy directory of all the clubs and classes we’ve featured over the next 6 pages. Get in touch to book your space or to find out more - they’d love to hear from you!

Remember to let them know you found out about them in

Families Edinburgh.

SpOrT AND mOVEmENT

mUSIc

3V2 SOccEr AcADEmy 07872 448788 or 07969 434840 TUmBLE TOTS 01875 819966 joletelier.lobos@virgin.net GymINI www.gymini.co.uk TATTy BUmpKIN 07411 571001 edinburghwest@tattybumpkin.com rUGBy TOTS 0345 313 3252 sandra@rugbytots.co.uk mIDLOThIAN SNOWSpOrTS 0131 445 4433 EXcEL SpOrTS AcADEmy www.excel-sports.co.uk ENJOy LEISUrE www.enjoyleisure.com EDINBUrGh LEISUrE www.edinburghleisure.co.uk SOccErSTArTS info@soccerstartsfootballacademy.co.uk

JO JINGLES 01875 616607 leigh.jojingles@btinternet.com EDINBUrGh yOUNG mUSIcIANS 0131 226 3392 JAcK & JILL mUSIc 07809 154415 STrING BABIES 07722 831 224 sheena.m.ferguson@gmail.com ST mAry’S mUSIc SchOOL 0131 538 7766 mONKEy mUSIc morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk comelybank.corstorphine@monkeymusic.co.uk pOrTOBELLO mUSIc SchOOL 0131 623 2513

pErFOrmING ArTS mONKEy DrAmA 07736 298013 alana@monkeydrama.co.uk ThE DrAmA STUDIO 0131 453 3284 AcTING OUT UK 07704714607 hELEN O’GrADy DrAmA AcADEmy 0131 667 0939 midscot@helenogrady.co.uk STAGEcOAch www.stagecoach.co.uk/edinburgh ThEATrE SANS AccENTS hello@theatresansaccents.co.uk

LANGUAGE ThEATrE SANS AccENTS hello@theatresansaccents.co.uk INSTITUT FrANcAIS EcOSSE info@ifecosse.org.uk

Children’s Music Classes from birth to teens • New baby and toddler classes • Creative music classes (Preschool to P2) • Individual and group instrumental classes (P3 to teens) • New musicianship classes (P3+) • ABRSM Music Medal Syllabus Enrol at www.portobellomusicschool or tel: 0131 623 2513

DANcE cEILIDh KIDS 0131 667 8898 ceilidhkids@ceilidhkids.com STEp IT Up DANcE hello@stepitupdance.co.uk TUTU TOTS 07772 504958 DN-DANcE 07545 551271 / 077994 86447 theatre@dndance.co.uk ThE EDINBUrGh DANcE AcADEmy 0131 337 3402 DANcE BASE www.dancebase.co.uk DANcE FOr ALL 0131 226 5533

crEATIVE BABy SENSOry www.babysensory.com DOODLES 0131 229 1399 crAFTy cOOKS 07900 093946 fiona@CraftyCooks.co.uk BE EXpErImENTAL TOTS ScIENcE LABS enquiries@beexperimental.co.uk

SchOOL SUppOrT KIp mcGrATh 0131 610 6110 EXpLOrE LEArNING 030 3003 4006 KIDScENE www.royalblind.org/child-care BrIGhT BrAIN ScOTLAND www.brightbrain-scotland.co.uk

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Families Edinburgh 13

Whether it's your child's first day at school or whether it's their last, there are always those little transition moments filled with various measures of excitement, anticipation and anxiety. All children, from the youngest to the oldest, can benefit from support in confidence, collaboration and communication, and our trained and experienced staff at Stagecoach Theatre Arts Edinburgh give that support. Our students become more self-assured, expressive, sociable and imaginative and they learn how to tackle situations with resilience, creativity and courage.

CONFIDENCE

The team at Stagecoach Edinburgh spend a lot of time finding new ways to engage children and encourage them to be confident in themselves and their ideas.

Children may come to us to develop their performance skills, to increase their confidence or to work alongside like minded peers doing something that they love.

Confidence comes in all shapes and sizes – but through the performing arts we hope to help children feel confident in adapting to new environments. Our first step is always to explore creative risk taking – helping children to be brave with their actions and voices. This can be simple things like joining in a game, answering yes at registration, developing a new dance move, to standing up on stage in front of an audience. All milestones are celebrated, no matter how small.

COMMUNICATION

At Stagecoach Edinburgh we use voice training in our drama and singing classes to help encourage students to be articulate, audible and, of course, confident. Students use their voices more efficiently when they understand its mechanics, and how it works. We teach voice training through a mixture of games and exercises to encourage vocal dexterity and range. But that's not all.

Communication is about using nuance in the voice, and understanding how facial expression and body language can be used to convey meaning and emotion. From our youngest students (aged 4) to our oldest (aged 18), these skills are used not just in the world of performing arts they are skills for life.

COLLABORATION

Effective collaboration is dependent on treating others with respect and being willing to engage with alternative ideas and ways of working. Building friendships is an important part of the Stagecoach journey, and through creative learning and risk-taking, we see students grow in confidence and form connections and friendships with their peer groups. It is always a joy to see friendships develop and grow – and to note the increased confidence in the children when this happens. Collaborative working in the performing arts helps promote increased empathy and sets the stage for future interactions and teamwork.

At Stagecoach Edinburgh, the students have the opportunity to work together - but also to shine as individuals.

Be creative and have the courage to be yourself, whatever you do.

Class times / Locations: Stagecoach Theatre Arts runs during term time and offers classes in dance, drama and singing for all children aged 4 to18, regardless of experience.

Two week trial options are available.

EARLY STAGES (4-6yrs)

MAIN SCHOOL (6-18yrs)

VENUE

Friday 4pm – 5.30pm Friday 4.30pm – 6pm

Friday 5pm – 8pm

BrouGhtoN hiGh SChooL 29 East Fettes Avenue, Edinburgh, EH4 1EG

Saturday 9.30am – 11am

Saturday 10am – 1pm

DANCE BASE 14-16 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2JU

Saturday 4pm – 5.30pm

Saturday 2.30pm – 5.30pm

FAirmiLEhEAD ChurCh 1 Frogston Road West, Edinburgh, EH10 7AA

Saturday 10.30am – 12pm

Saturday 10am – 1pm

muSiC Box thEAtrE Bankhead Avenue, EH11 4DE

Sunday 10.15am – 11.45am

Sunday 10am – 1pm

LEith ACADEmy 20 Academy Park, Edinburgh EH6 8JQ

For more information or to book a place, contact our Principal, Tina on 0808 208 5134 or at www.stagecoach.co.uk/edinburgh 14 Families Edinburgh

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it’s our Big

©Dancebase

Clubs&Classes round up!

Maybe it’s athletics that brings your child joy or perhaps they like nothing better than bit of xylophone bashing. Take your pick, you’ll find plenty of amazing classes to chose from here! pErFOrmING ArTS the drama studio If you are looking for an activity for young people that is highly stimulating, captures the imagination, boosts self-confidence, helps making new friends and is great fun then Creative Drama may well be it!

We offer After School and Saturday morning classes in both independent venues and schoolbased clubs. We guarantee you high quality Creative Drama with performance opportunities in most venues and exciting Teenage Theatre and Film Projects, a Casting Agency and very popular Children's Drama Parties.

Visit our website www.thedramastudio.com or call 0131 453 3284 and we will be delighted to talk to you.

develoPment through drama!

Linlithgow Corstorphine Edinburgh South Musselburgh Bonnyrigg Livingston Newday Broxburn a S tuasrs in Leith Cl rgh u Edinb

Tel: 0131 667 0939 web www.helenogrady.co.uk email midscot@helenogrady.co.uk Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HelenOGradyMidScotland

Helen O’Grady drama classes help students enjoy the ability to communicate verbally.

In the competitive world we live in, it is vital children have the confidence to present themselves well and become valuable members of the community. Students can attend our classes from starting school and continue until leaving school.

The varied curriculum, which includes speech, movement, script work, improvisations and theatre productions, is constantly revised and updated. Classes are great fun and noncompetitive ensuring each child is a ‘star’. With the older age groups, drama allows students to express their own ideas and share these with their peers.

New Saturday class in Edinburgh! Call 0131 667 0939 or 07701 333476 to book a FREE TRIAL. midscot@helenogrady.co.uk www.helenogrady.co.uk

is here!

After 4 amazing years of taking hundreds of children on adventures of the imagination, award winning Monkey Drama are so excited to have their very own studio venue in Edinburgh!

As well as a full weekly timetable of classes for children 6 months to P1-P3 we will also have weekly visits from nurseries and schools as well as continuing to go out to all our regular places.

Never tried Monkey Drama before? Book a 2 week trial!

Classes focus on building personal and social skills as well as creativity. We indulge in lots of role play, we meet many different characters, we jump right into the heart of every story and every week is a new and exciting theme. We also host amazing parties! alana@monkeydrama.co.uk, call 07736298013 Find out more and book online at www.monkeydrama.co.uk

budding Performer in the family?

Acting Out UK are super excited to announce our brand new classes at the Augustine Theatre Church on George IV Bridge. A central location with excellent facilities, our young stars train in a professional theatre every week!

As an accredited drama school with pathways into the professional world, our weekly termtime classes are run by professional, passionate and fun teachers and cover acting, singing and dancing. Our creative children & talented teens learn new skills, make new friends and have loads of fun while working towards exams, certificates, auditions, shows or good old fashioned creative fun! We make sure even the quiet ones get a chance to shine (and they always do)! Affiliated with Education Scotland, PLFind, Youth Theatre Scotland, Trinity College London, NUS Society and casting agencies.

Check out our testimonial page or FB page. www.actingoutdramaschool.com / 07704714607/ Facebook.com/actingoutuk See also Theatre Sans Accents (in Languages section)

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Families Edinburgh 15

Big Clubs&Classes round up!

SpOrT AND mOVEmENT midlothian snowsPorts Heading back to school? Head back to Snowsports at Midlothian Snowsports, Hillend.

Escape the city and visit the stunning Pentlands Hills Regional Park. Skiing, Snowboarding and Tubing are all available at Britain’s largest artificial slope. A great way to practise and get the legs going before the snow arrives. Weekend blocks of ski and snowboard lessons are running for all levels all the way through the year, call 0131 445 4433 to check dates and get booked in. Or stuck for activities in the October holidays?

Book into the October ski and snowboard camps running from 16th - 20th October.

Enjoy some tubing on purpose built tubing slopes, open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, no need to pre book, just arrive and slide!

enjoyleisure in east lothian Calling all kids looking for active fun in East Lothian!

Infants, children and teens alike can discover a world of sport, leisure and play activities right on their doorstep.

Enjoy Swimming Lessons, Baby Gym, Gym Monkeys, Gymnastics, Trampolining, Climbing, Soft Play, Badminton, Judo, Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Climbing, Mini Tennis, Football, Rugby, Athletics, Teen Gym - the list goes on and on!

Youngsters also have the opportunity to join many Clubs and Organisations making use of enjoyleisure’s sporting facilities on a weekly basis. There’s plenty of fitness activities for adults too!

So whether you’re interested in signing up to a new activity, burning off some energy or enjoying quality family time, discover the opportunities on your doorstep at www.enjoyleisure.com

3v2 soCCer aCademy The 3v2 Soccer Academy are an Edinburgh based independent coaching company that offers a football based year round coaching programme for both children and adults.

As well as our weekly classes at various venues around Edinburgh we also offer children the opportunity to take part in and experience one of many holiday football camps as well as our fantastic birthday party service. Other specialist services include individual, group, team, playgroup, nursery and school curriculum coaching.

Each class is tailored to meet the imagination of the group where on a weekly basis you will take part in many fun games, child related topics and go on class adventures.

Book your free trial! For full further details please see our website or call us in person. www.3v2socceracademy.co.uk Roddy Maughan 07872448788 or Murdo Steven 07969434840

tumble tots Tumble Tots is the leading National Active Play Programme for children from 6 months to 7 years providing a challenging environment for different ages and stages of development. With brightly coloured equipment and trained staff the children practice to climb, balance, complete forward/backward rolls, improve coordination, problem solving, and social skills, increase their self-confidence and so much more and all whilst having fun.

For Primary 1 and 2 we have a Gymbobs class on a Saturday which further challenges them both on and off the equipment and introduces the children to team games including relay races. Birthday parties and holiday Play Schemes also available. www.tumbletots.com/Edinburgh Classes in Morningside, Fairmilehead, Marchmont and Joppa. Call Jo on 01875 819966 or email joletelier.lobos@virgin.net

rugbytots Rugbytots is a highly energetic play programme for boys and girls aged 2-7 years that has run in Scotland since 2008 with classes throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians.

One mum recently commented 'Rugbytots has been by far the best activity that we have taken part in and worth every penny for the range of skills and the discipline.’

Building on our fantastic success in Edinburgh, we are excited to launch new weekday classes at Trinity on a Thursday afternoon and Livingston on a Friday morning as well as a Saturday class in Bridgend, Linlithgow.

Come along and join in the fun!

Book online at www.rugbytots.co.uk If you have any questions, please e-mail sandra@rugbytots.co.uk or call 0345 313 3252

edinburgh leisure Edinburgh Leisure runs a wide range of coaching and courses for children, whether they’re just starting out, wanting to get the most out of their preferred sport or just wanting to find something they might excel at.

From athletics, badminton, boccia, climbing, dance, diving, football, gym nippers, gymnastics, martial arts, swimming, tennis, trampolining, Edinburgh Leisure has it covered. They also aim to make their coaching programme inclusive for all children across the city, with a range of classes available with different coach to participant ratios as well as opportunities to attend ASN specific classes. www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/coaching

New Performing Arts Classes for children aged 4+ in Musselburgh & Central Edinburgh An electric mix of song, drama & dance Explore new & old Musicals and develop stage skills

Musselburgh: Fisherrow Centre Friday afternoons Starting 25th August Central Edinburgh: St Johns Church, Princes Street Saturday afternoons Starting 28th October

Contact us to take advantage of our introductory offer -

8 week bloCk of Classes for the priCe of 6 - plus a free theatre t-shirt!

theatre@dndance.co.uk 07545 551271 / 07799 486447

16 Families Edinburgh

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Big Clubs&Classes round up!

SpOrT AND mOVEmENT gymini

exCel sPorts aCademy

Edinburgh-based GYMINI provides FOUNDATION GYMNASTICS based on a Movement and Learning programme tailored for pre-school and primary children. We are a sports based programme, not a soft play centre, however we do use soft equipment to teach basic gymnastic skills making it more fun to learn.

GYMINI coaches are qualified British Gymnastic coaches who are involved in a variety of other sports as well as gymnastics. Our involvement in pre-school gym comes not only from our own sporting backgrounds but the fact that we are parents and involved with children and can recognise our programme as an introduction to SPORT. www.gymini.co.uk

Once again Excel Sports Academy are running a week long All Sports camp from Monday 16th to Friday 20th October at St Georges School in Murrayfield. We welcome all children aged 5 - 15 years.

Our friendly, experienced staff and coaches ensure that the children have a great time each day. There is a structured timetable with lots of different activities. This year we will have a spooky theme for the week with apple dunking and pumpkin carving included to add to the fun. Book online at www.excel-sports.co.uk or call us if you have any questions. Individual day places are also available. Come along and join us this October and experience Excel for yourself.

new Classes to be added to soCCerstarts weekly timetable Football Skills Coaching 2 week taster for £5!

Classes for walking to 3 years, 3 to 5 years and Primary School age.

New! Walking to 3 years classes in South Queensferry on Friday mornings.

New! P3/4 and 5 on the Tuesday Evening at Craigmount High.

New! P1 & 2 classes at Musselburgh Sports Centre on the Saturday morning.

Contact b.robertson@soccerstarts.co.uk or info@soccerstartsfootballacademy.co.uk for information on the planned new classes at above venues or to join classes within the existing packed timetable at: Craigmount High School, Nelson Hall South Queensferry, Musselburgh Sports Centre, Napier University and Westwoods Health Club.

See the full existing timetable at www.soccerstartsfootballacademy.co.uk Soccerstarts Football Academy also provides one to one football coaching and birthday parties for primary age children.

tatty bumPkin and baby bumPkin Bend, stretch, run, jump, wriggle and giggle!

Fun, active yoga-inspired sessions with stories and music for 0 - 7 year olds. Yoga aspects include postures, breathing and relaxation encouraging balance, flexibility, strength, co-ordination and confidence.

Baby sessions include baby yoga movements, gentle stretches for Mum/Dad, rhymes and multi-sensory activities to gently stimulate and then relax baby.

What people say: “It's the highlight of our week.”

“We will always have happy memories of our bendy giggly clever and strong Friday mornings!”

Join us at Morningside United Church on Friday mornings or look out for us in your nursery, school or after-school club.

07411 571001 edinburghwest@tattybumpkin.com www.tattybumpkin.com/edinburghwest

LANGUAGES fun in frenCh! In the wake of their move to the buzzing Royal Mile (Lothian Chambers), the forefront organisation for French language and culture in Scotland is adding to their children programme of French classes (starting age 3), family events and French film screenings and book clubs.

They are launching Le Club, a brand new afterschool club for children aged 3 to 5 and 6 to 9. Every Friday afternoon (2 to 3.30pm), activities in French will be animated by qualified teachers; activities will include arts and craft, science workshops, games and story-time. All levels French learners and speakers are welcome!

The school term starts and activities start on Tuesday 19 September however early booking is recommended to benefit from their early bird discount!

More information on the Institut français d’Écosse’s offer on www.ifecosse.org.uk or at info@ifecosse.org.uk

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two skills in one workshoP: frenCh and drama!

All levels welcome from P1 to S6 - no need to be fluent.

Our weekly classes give the chance to participants to test their capacities and learn new words and skills whilst being creative on stage! Drama games and improvisation exercises are at the core of our methods focusing on building up confidence, playing around with sounds, developing vocabulary and discovering French culture in a relaxed and friendly environment!

Participants will work towards an end of term performance for their friends and family! *** Early Bird Discount (10% off the term fees) if you book by 31/08 *** For more details visit our website: www.theatresansaccents.co.uk Reserve your place now at hello@theatresansaccents.co.uk

St Mary’s Music School Open Afternoons Friday 6 and Saturday 7 October

Tel: 0131 538 7766

Families Edinburgh 17

Big Clubs&Classes round up! age specific football training for children at walking age - 12 years Birthday Parties available for ages 3 + For more info contact: 07544 221045 Email: info@soccerstartsfootballacademy.co.uk or b.robertson@soccerstarts.co.uk

www.soccerstartsfootballacademy.co.uk

mUSIc join all the fun at monkey musiC We are having a wonderful term at Monkey Music, which is why we are the favourite preschool class of so many Edinburgh families across the city! Families enjoy a nurturing educational environment supported by all the props, musical fun and games that our 4 stage curricula offers. As one family said “there truly is something magical for everyone at Monkey Music”.

Come along for a free trial in one of our many venues across Edinburgh.

Edinburgh South: Boroughmuir Monday am, Balerno Tuesday am, Eric Liddell Wednesday am and Thursday am and Marchmont Friday am Edinburgh North: Corstorphine Monday am, Murrayfield Monday pm/Thursday am, Comely Bank Tuesday am/Friday am, Cramond Thursday am, Stockbridge Monday am, Tuesday pm, Wednesday am, Saturday am. To book your free trial contact Abbey - Edinburgh South morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk Rachel - Edinburgh North comelybank.corstorphine@monkeymusic.co.uk www.monkeymusic.co.uk

stringbabies

edinburgh young musiCians

Sheena is the Stringbabies teacher for Edinburgh. Having studied music at University she has been teaching violin since November 2008. She also teaches older children and adults and is happy to prepare pupils for exams or just teach for the joy of learning.

Stringbabies provides the opportunity for children aged 4 to 6 to make music and play the violin. In a happy, relaxed atmosphere they compose their own melodies, sing, and advance toward reading conventional music notation in a natural progression, but at a much earlier age than is normal - some even before they can read! 07722 831 224 sheena.m.ferguson@gmail.com To find out more about Stringbabies go to www.stringbabies.com

EYM gives inspiration and an outlet for their musical aspirations to over 350 youngsters every Saturday. All teaching is done in groups, with the aim of nurturing and developing each pupil's innate musicianship, enabling them to enjoy music and realise their musical potential.

Musical Play classes (final pre-school year and P1) are open to children with no musical experience, as are P2 Musical Workshop classes and P3 Beginners' Musical Foundations classes, each of which offer a one-year course designed to prepare children to learn an instrument or sing in a choir. String orchestras, choirs, chamber music and musicianship classes are for children with suitable musical experience. Now approaching its 20th anniversary, EYM is planning a Come & Sing Day and a celebratory concert. www.e-y-m.org.uk. 0131-226-3392.

st mary's musiC sChool

Skiing Snowboarding Tubing Octo

of ski and Weekend blocks r all levels s fo snowboard lesson r ps 16th - 20th Octobe m ca d ar bo ow sn d ber ski an

Call: 0131 445 4433 http://ski.midlothian.gov.uk • Email:ski.midlothian.gov.uk Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend, Biggar Road, Edinburgh EH10 7DU

Be experimental parent and child preschool science club

inspiring Young scientific minds For details of classes in your area, visit our website

www.beexperimental.co.uk/science-clubs or email enquiries@beexperimental.co.uk

18 Families Edinburgh

St Mary's Music School, Coates Hall, Grosvenor Crescent, Edinburgh, is holding Open Afternoons on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 October. See the school in action, including choir, orchestra, chamber music, jazz and Scottish traditional music. Find out about full-time places for talented instrumentalists, composers and singers, aged 9 – 19, with Scottish Government and Bursary funding, up to 100%. Learn about being a chorister at St Mary’s Cathedral, educated at St Mary’s Music School. Saturday Morning Classes for children aged 4 – 14 start up again on 9 September. Taster sessions are available for children to meet the teacher and try out an instrument. Tel: 0131 538 7766 for further information.

jo jingles musiC & movement Classes are great fun for all We welcome babies from around 12 weeks and we don’t charge weekly class fees for those under 5 months (just £3.60 admin charged per term). This is also the case for siblings under 18 months too. We run over 70 classes per week in the local area, with a mix of classes for babies, toddlers etc and mixed age classes too, so plenty options to suit your routine.

Our classes are structured with weekly themes to build confidence with plenty of lively action songs, percussion instruments and fun props to enhance learning through play. Great fun for grown ups too and perfect to meet new friends!

For booking or further details contact Leigh.

01875 616607 leigh.jojingles@btinternet.com www.jojingles.com/Edinburgh

jaCk and jill Jack and Jill music classes in Edinburgh are interactive music classes for babies, toddlers and preschool children with accompanying adults taught by a qualified and experienced musician.

Early learning is encouraged through stimulating and multi-sensory musical activities shared between the adult and young child. Many areas of child development are fostered in the classes – particularly language, social and emotional, intellectual, physical and musical – though the primary aim is always to have fun making music together! 07809 154415 www.jackandjill-music.co.uk

Portobello musiC sChool Now in its 12th year, Portobello Music School provides comprehensive music education to over 350 students aged birth to teens from across Edinburgh and the Lothians. Weekday Baby and Toddler Music Classes now in Musselburgh and Portobello with students graduating to the Saturday Music School in Portobello at age 3. Children aged preschool to P2 attend a series of progressive creative music classes which prepare them for group instrumental lessons starting in primary 3.

Children can choose from a wide range of instruments including: flute, clarinet, saxophone, violin, guitar, piano and drums, taught by an enthusiastic team of highly experienced music teachers. As well as receiving instrumental tuition, which includes annual ABRSM Music Medal Examinations, children also attend weekly Kodály-based musicianship classes which develop essential aural skills and music theory. www.portobellomusicschool.com or tel: 0131 623 2513

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Big Clubs&Classes round up!

SchOOL SUppOrT “exPlore learning makes learning fun for the Children” Emma, aged 14, Samuel, aged 12 and Justina, aged 8, have been attending the Explore Learning centre in Murrayfield since 2013, making them some of the longest standing members. Here mum, Soffia, shares her experiences Why did you decide to join Explore?

I wanted to help prepare my daughter Emma for her entrance exams to High School. With my other children I wanted to stretch and challenge Samuel’s learning and also expose the Justina to a different type of learning. Samuel has gone onto prepare for his entrance exams with Explore and take part in their additional content courses, Creative Maths and Creative Writing.

How has Explore helped/ what impact has Explore had?

Explore has helped to prepare my children to successfully pass their entrance exams and is challenging my youngest with her problem solving in maths.

Who would you recommend Explore to?

I would recommend Explore Learning to all parents of primary school and high school children.

What advice would you give to other parents thinking about bringing their children to Explore?

To come to a trial session and have a conversation with the managers about your concerns and see how the sessions are adapted to meet your child's need.

What you think makes Explore Learning a unique tutoring service?

I believe Explore Learning makes learning fun for the children.

How do Explore tutors support your child in their sessions?

They have time for every child by giving them their full attention.

The tutors also take an interest in what the children do outside of school.

How has Explore supported what your child is working on at school?

By working with parents to find out any concerns with school work and tailoring sessions in line with school work.

Julia, who is a manger of the centre, says: All the children really value their learning and so does Soffia. They love getting involved in the sessions and also the planning of their learning at parent meetings, having an input of what they want to work on. ”

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brightbrain sCotland Brightbrain Scotland are the provider of the Bal-A-Vis-X Programme in the UK. BALance Auditory VISion eXercises is for everyone age 3 upwards. A series of rhythmic exercises,using sandbags,racquetballs and balance boards, to help you learn more easily in the classroom,sports field or with homework. Bal-A-Vis-X is designed to improve: focused attention, confidence, physical coordination, behaviour, academic success, social skills, anxiety and decrease impulsivity / hyperactivity. The programme consists of rhythmic, purposeful, physical movement that is essential for academic learning. Brightbrain Scotland sessions are available in Edinburgh, in a safe,friendly and fun environment. www.brightbrain-scotland.co.uk

kidsCene after sChool and holiday Club Kidscene provides after school and holiday care to children aged 4-16, with and without disabilities.

We especially welcome children with a visual impairment and we reserve a number of spaces for partially sighted and blind children. Our recently refurbished premises are within the Royal Blind School campus in Morningside, Edinburgh. Facilities include a messy room, a play room and a kitchen, all with full disabled access. Our play room includes a chill out zone, imagination area, construction area, computer and console games, board games and puzzles and sensory area. We also have access to the Royal Blind School’s facilities including a hydrotherapy pool, sensory garden, soft play area and outdoor multi-use games area. Please visit www.royalblind.org/childcare for fees and more information.

kiP mCgrath Kip McGrath Professional Teachers in our centres in Marchmont & Inverleith help children of all ages (4-18) achieve the highest results. Our results speak for themselves: “Dear Indy thank you. My son hated maths and now what a difference he has gained confidence not just in maths but in his general abilities…L. Walters.

Edinburgh Inverleith, 1 Huntly Street, EH3 5HB. Edinburgh Marchmont, 125 Marchmont Road, EH9 1HA. For a free assessment call Indy. 0131 610 6110 www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/edinburgh-central www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/edinburgh-marchmont

DANcE autumn term at danCe base Autumn Term at Dance Base begins from Saturday 9 September and that means you and your family can enjoy dance classes for everyone – of every age and every ability. There’s Baby Steps for parents and babies of 0 – 18 months, Dance ‘n’ Play for 18 months – 3 years, and Creative Dance for pre-schoolers.

Then, once your young dancers are a bit more confident, they can branch out into Mini Dance Academy, Street & Hip Hop, Contemporary, or Aerial Dance! As for parents (and anyone over 14), you can access their full array of amazing dance classes – everything from Ballet to Irish Dance, from Tango to Jazz, from Tap to Afro Cuban, or from Contemporary to Belly Dance.

Check out your options at dancebase.co.uk

Families Edinburgh 19

DANcE

NEXT ISSUE

It’s Chriiiiiistmaaas!

Local gift ideas • Panto • Where to see Santa • Local Shopping and so much more BOOKINGS TAKEN NOW

enjoy sCottish danCing with Ceilidhkids!

edinburgh danCe aCademy

Traditionally at a Scottish Ceilidh, well-loved dances are shared between the generations. At CeilidhKids classes and events, simple (often simplified) Scottish dances are explained and demonstrated, before everyone gets to have a go. Some dances will be old and traditional, others have been specially adapted for wee people to enjoy with Mum, Dad, childminder or grandparents. For nine years now CeilidhKids has been getting families dancing in Edinburgh and the Lothians. Maybe you’ve met us at a preschool class, at nursery, at school, or at a festival or party. Join us as we clap, march, skip, jump and twirl to the music? Bring comfy shoes and something to drink – we’ll see you there!

0131 667 8898 ceilidhkids@ceilidhkids.com www.ceilidhkids.com.

After ten years of dancing, acting and teaching overseas, RAD Examiner Julie Mitchell created Edinburgh Dance Academy. Alongside classes in ballet, modern, jazz, tap, contemporary, acro and hip hop, EDA also has its own Edinburgh Dance Company. We pride ourselves on giving the very best to our students, offering workshops throughout the year with some fantastic artists. This is of course on top of our own brilliant teaching faculty. We believe that self expression is a wonderful way for children to improve their social skills and build their confidence. The world of dance is an exciting place to be – a place where children can forget worries.

Studios in: The New Town, Stockbridge, Blackhall, Trinity and West Edinburgh. Book now for a free trial lesson!

Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

dynam-niC

The Springboard to confidence for your child Britain’s leading National Active Physical Play Programme for children from 6 months to 7 yrs

pa We rti d es o to o!

Morningside, Joppa, Fairmilehead, and Marchmont contact Jo – 01875 819966

www.tumbletots.com/Edinburgh

danCe for all is now taking bookings

for their autumn term Classes.

Dynam-nic are super excited to launch “My daughter has been attending for 7 years and has never once their new Musical Theatre Academies in grumbled about it. It has helped her self-confidence enormously.” ~ Musselburgh and Central Edinburgh.

Providing an electric mix of Song, Acting and Sophie, mum to 11yr old pupil.

Dance - exploring theatre techniques and Established in 1985, Dance For All nurtures pupils aged 2½ - 18yrs to developing performance skills for children from enjoy and excel in the finest dance genres, including RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap, age 4. Musical Theatre is a fun way to meet new SDS Flamenco, Jazz and Contemporary. Principal, Tracy Hawkes, leads an inspirational faculty of staff in delivering professional dance training friends, build confidence and learn new skills! and over 70 weekly child, teen & adult classes (beginners - advanced).

Musselburgh @ Fisherrow.

“It’s never boring and always fun, making life-long friends.”

Launching Friday 25th August at 1pm ~ Aimee, 15-year-old pupil.

Central Edinburgh @ St Johns Church, Browse testimonials, timetables, photos & more on Princes Street. Launching Saturday 28th www.danceforall.co.uk or call 0131 226 5533.

October at 2pm Mini Theatre Academies: age 4-6 tutu tots Theatre Academies: age 7-16 Where dancing with Mum is lots of fun! Dads and grannies welcome Take advantage of our introductory offer! too at this fantastic introduction to creative movement for tiny twirlers Book an 8 week block for the price of 6 from the age of 2. Drop in class,pay on the day so no term Call Nicky or Chanelle to reserve your place. commitment.Tutu provided,no need for dance gear or changing. Check theatre@dndance.co.uk out our website for this and all our other classes- From tots to teens and www.dndance.co.uk adults too , there's something for everyone at our friendly north Edinburgh 07545551271 / 07799486447 Dance studio. www.waterfrontdance.co.uk 07772504958 steP it uP danCe Award-winning urban dance company Step It Up Dance teach tots aged 18 months right up to teenagers during their active weekly classes, high-energy holiday camps and bouncing birthday parties! And they have expanded their range of classes and venues for the new academic year. Now offering children classes in Breakdance, Hip Hop, Urban Dance and Acro Dance, you can find them in venues across the city from Musselburgh all the way to Murrayfield and many more places in between!

Trial their classes this term by booking online at www.stepitupdance.co.uk or drop them an email to hello@stepitupdance.co.uk with any questions. Step It Up Dance, for healthy, happy kids.

c r E AT I V E doodles October Holiday workshops will run at Doodles on Tuesday 17th, Wednesday 18th and Thursday 18th October.

We will have an Autumn theme of clay modelling and painting projects to keep the kids amused. 10.30 - 12.30 daily with mid morning snack break. Cost £15 per session.

Booking essential, please call Doodles on 0131 229 1399. Please check our Facebook page for more details.

At Brightbrain-Scotland we provide the Bal-A-Vis-X Programme for everyone age 3 upwards.

Weekly one on one and group classes available.

Rhythmic exercises using sandbags, racquetballs and balance boards, to help you learn more - physically, socially and academically, in a safe friendly, fun environment For parents and teachers the next training event takes place on 22, 23, 24th September 2017, in Scotland More 2017 and 2018 dates can be viewed online.

20 Families Edinburgh

be exPerimental tots labs

baby sensory

A child's natural curiosity and ability to ask questions make them perfect budding scientists and at Be Experimental we believe it's important to nurture these young scientific minds. Children aged between 2 and 5 can come along to Tots Lab science clubs and take part in experiments and investigations on topics ranging from astronomy to zoology. Every week our science club covers a new and exciting scientific topic so you and your little scientist can experience something different each week. Come along and enjoy exciting topics such as chemical reactions, space, dinosaurs and the senses. All our sessions last for 45 minutes and include interactive elements to keep the attention of even the youngest of little scientists. www.www.beexperimental.co.uk/science-clubs or email enquiries@beexperimental.co.uk.

Baby Sensory’s multi-award winning classes will introduce you and your baby to a world of sensory delights, where the two of you can relax, spend quality time with each other and enjoy meeting other new parents. The programme is packed with an incredible variety of sounds, smells, sights, textures, music, dance, signing and massage – and you’ll never experience the same class twice. A magical world, full of glowing balls, light shows, puppets, bubbles, petals, rainbows, even an underwater experience of breathtaking imagination. Everything we do is backed by scientific research, carefully designed with your baby’s development in mind. The first year of your baby’s life is the most important, soon after birth the brain starts creating two million new connections every second! So come, have some fun and let’s make the most of this very special time. www.babysensory.com

Crafty Cooks Crafty Cooks Edinburgh offers a lovely cooking class for children aged 2 to 11. Kids get to make a recipe themselves every week and do a tasting /activity session whilst the food is cooking. This is great for fussy eaters or just for getting kids to explore different foods in a fun, relaxed environment. Places now available for the new term starting in August. Different class times to suit pre school or school age children. Please just get in touch with me to find a suitable class. Private group classes, nursery sessions and Birthday parties also available.

Call 07900093946. E-mail fiona@craftycooks.co.uk Facebook Crafty Cooks Edinburgh.

familiesonline.co.uk

Out&About

Further details on events listed can be found at www.familiesonline.co.uk including any contact or further booking information.

While every care has been taken to compile the OUT AND ABOUT section please remember that this magazine is printed weeks ahead of some of the events. PLEASE call and check events with the venue to avoid any disappointment before setting out. If you have any events you would like listed free in this section please email them to editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

AUGUST ©Tony Marsh

Ongoing NEW! 3D wildlife film experience at the Seabird centre Hosted daily in the Wildlife Theatre (12noon), the NEW 3D experience allows visitors to see a range of films throughout the year, which explore different marine environments and wildlife. The first explores the life of whales and dolphins.

Tickets for the 3D experience should be requested on arrival at the Centre. Showings daily at 12:00 for up to 44 people.

All included with admission: adult £8.95, child £4.95, family ticket £25. Double boat trip and Discovery Centre tickets are also available. Free for Seabird Members. Ideal for age 3+.

Until August 28 Edinburgh International Book Festival Charlotte Square Gardens, Charlotte Square The Baillie Gifford Children's Programme at the Edinburgh International Book Festival features many interactive events, performances and workshops suitable for babies, children and teenagers.

Until August 28 polar Extremes at Dynamic Earth Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Road, Edinburgh Uncover a world of incredible experiences at some of Earth’s most extreme environments. Get your hands on a real iceberg as part of your time-travelling journey, and after your tour of our amazing galleries, enjoy additional activities included with your admission.10am - 4:30 Admission charges apply Until 31 August pAW patrol comes to Edinburgh Zoo Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh.

The PAW Patrol team have been called in to Edinburgh Zoo for an important mission! Admission charges apply To November 12 Bonnie prince charlie and the Jacobites National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh Featuring the very best of Scotland’s national collections, alongside treasures from across the UK and Europe, this exhibition presents the wider story of the Jacobites. 10:00 - 17:00 Admission charge applies

SEPTEMBER Saturday 2 September 1950’s event Bo’ness Station, Union St, Bo'ness EH51 9AQ 10am-4pm. Steam and diesel trains with live music, DJ and dancing, pop up vintage stalls and more, for all the family.

Admission charges apply. www.bkrailway.co.uk

Until the end of the year Extra horsepower at the Shale museum Almond Valley is open daily from 10am to 5pm www.almondvalley.co.uk “Underground Cuddies” is a new temporary exhibition at the Almond Valley Heritage Centre in Livingston that celebrates the achievements of West Lothian’s pit ponies. The exhibition features items of harness and tack used in the mines, some of the certificates awarded to ponies and their handlers, and many other mementos. The display also features activities for children, including brushing and plaiting pony “tails” and making rosettes to award to your favourite horse at the agricultural show.

TiNYN TowplaY sofT3YRs 0s liNE ampo R T Big Top café paRTiE sTaRT s £8.00 pEaT cHild R

September 3 Bird Feeders Lauriston Castle 2 Cramond Road South, Booking essential www.usherhall.co.uk/whats-on/lauriston-castle-birdfeeders 10.30am -12.30pm. £4 per person Make and decorate a beautiful bird-feeder and learn how to make some yummy snacks that tiny beaks will love.

September 9 WW1 at Lauriston castle Lauriston Castle, Cramond Road South Davidson's Mains 11am - 4pm. Free and no need to book, just come along.

Join the Scots in the Great War Living History training in the grounds of Lauriston Castle in the long summer before the outbreak of WW1. This is for all the family to learn about history in a very fun and interactive way.

Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 September Day Out with Thomas at The Bo’ness & Kinneil railway Free parking - entrance to Museum of Scottish Railways included in ticket. www.bkrailway.co.uk Hourly 10.30-15.30. All aboard for a Day Out With Thomas! Meet Thomas the Tank Engine™ and his friends, who are waiting to meet you at the Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway. Experience a ride on a real steam engine, shake hands with The Fat Controller and take part in Thomas themed activities in the Imagination Station.

Make their day a Day Out With Thomas and book your tickets now! Family entertainment at both Bo'ness & Birkhill stations. Event open 10:00am-5:00pm.

Train journey from Bo'ness to Birkhill and return hauled by one of Thomas's friends. Thomas the Tank Engine will be at Bo'ness station all day - meet Thomas and the Fat Controller.

September 10 Greater than houdini: The Great Lafayette, the World's most Famous magician City Art Centre, 2 Market Street, Edinburgh. Booking is essential. To book call 0131 529 3993. FREE 2pm - 3pm Kevin Quantum presents a lively and magical show digging into the character of The Great Lafayette. Discover what the life of a professional magician was really like back in 1911 compared to now in 2011, see tricks that were extremely popular back in Lafayette’s day, compared to modern magical illusions. Suitable for the whole family. ©Alicia Bruce

September 10 portrait Detectives Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh Collect your kit, follow clues and solve a mystery from history! 2.00pm to 4.00pm. This is a free, drop-in event that is suitable for ages 4 - 12 years old and their parents/carers.

Us ciRccUs R i c plaY sofT10YRs fiBRE 4opTic zoNE

paRTiEs/ gRoU BookiNpg s

ew Un der en en t M Manag comE aNd BoUNcE aRoUNd aT oUR familY RUN TRampoliNE, acTiviTY & paRTY cENTRE Unit 2-3, 109 Restalrig Road, Edinburgh EH6 7NY Tel: 0131 553 7676 www.clownaroundclub.co.uk

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Families Edinburgh 21

Out&About Tuesday 12 September Afternoon Tea on a Steam Train at The Bo’ness & Kinneil railway Pre-booking advised. www.bkrailway.co.uk Also Sat 16, Sun 17, Tue 19, Tue 26, Sat 30 September.

Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea of freshly made sandwiches, cakes and homemade scones with clotted cream and Scottish jam served with a pot of coffee or tea aboard a lovingly restored steam train.

September 17 myths and Legends Booking essential! 0131 4557367 admin@waterofleith.org.uk From 1pm. Scottish mythology is dominated by goddesses, mythic creatures, fairies and fantastical legends. Join the hunt with our Water of Leith Goddess to seek out the mythical creatures and local legends inhabiting our river.Meet at the Water of Leith Visitor Centre. £5 per participant / £15 per family group (up to 4), children 2 and under free.

September 22 macmillan cancer care coffee morning at Doodles Doodles 29 Marchmont Crescent Edinburgh Eh9 1HQ. 0131 229 1399.

Check out our Facebook page for more updates.

11 - 4pm (or as long as the cakes last!) We will be serving yummy home made cakes and other treats along with tea, coffee and juice, with all donations going to Macmillan Cancer Care. We will also donate 25% of all sales on the day to this worthy cause. So please come along just for cake or feel free to paint too! We look forward to your support, September 24 Lauriston 1917 Lauriston Castle, Cramond Road South, Davidson's Mains 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Adult £5 (£6.50), Child £3 (£4.50), Family £12.50 (£17). Booking essential The war to end all wars is now in its 4th year. Things are becoming more and more difficult so the Reids of Lauriston Castle are continuing their attempts to provide support for those overseas.. Come and find out for yourself how they intend to do this and how they are coping with the deprivations of wartime.

September 27 September promenade poetry with the Edinburgh makar and Friends City Art Centre, 2 Market Street, Edinburgh Join the Edinburgh Makar, Christine De Luca and poets Jenni Daiches, Jamie Reid Baxter, Dorothy Lawrenson, Patricia McCaw, Lesley MayMiller and Anne Pia in the City Art Centre to hear some special poetry relating to the Edinburgh Alphabet exhibition and the City. No need to book just drop in. FREE 11am September 30 Glistening Lanterns Lauriston Castle, 2 Cramond Road South Booking essential www.usherhall.co.uk 10.30am - 12.30pm. £4 per person. Make a beautiful little hand-crafted lantern to glow and shimmer in the dark, inspired by nature.

22 Families Edinburgh

Further details on events listed can be found at www.familiesonline.co.uk including any

OCTOBER October 1 Afternoon Tea on a Steam Train at The Bo’ness & Kinneil railway Also Sat 7, Tue 10, Sat 14 October.

Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea of freshly made sandwiches, cakes and homemade scones with clotted cream and Scottish jam served with a pot of coffee or tea aboard a lovingly restored steam train. Pre-booking advised.

October 1 Art maker Scottish National Gallery. 2 - 4 pm for ages 4 - 12.

Free, drop in.

Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea of freshly made sandwiches, cakes and homemade scones with clotted cream and Scottish jam served with a pot of coffee or tea aboard a lovingly restored steam train. Pre-booking advised.

October 2 ByOB - Bring your Own Baby – True to Life Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Modern TWO 10am-12noon. Free, drop-in. For ages 0 - 1.

Sign up for one of our short buggy/baby-friendly art tours for adults. Gurgling, laughing, crying or screaming welcome as well as lots of informal chat. Places for tours limited, sign-up on the day.

October 7 - 31 Spooky happenings Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston.

Admission charges apply.

Join the Art Maker Club and make your own masterpieces with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser.

October 15 - 22 Explore planet Earth this October half term at Dynamic Earth See the full programme at www.dynamicearth.co.uk To kick off our October half-term, join us on Saturday October 14th to explore the amazing landscapes right on your doorstep with Scotland’s Geology Open Day and the official launch of the 51 best places to see Scotland’s Geology. From the 15th – 18th get hands on with our interactive Earth Sciences touch tables; explore landscapes with our augmented reality sand-box, make your own tornado, uncover your own dinosaur, or pilot a drone in our simulators. From 19th – 22nd join our special guests from the Scottish Mineral and Lapidary Club and get hands on with minerals and microscopes; become a fossil detective and explore an amazing collection of geodes.

Royal Collection Trust/© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 2017 Photographer David Cheskins

October 8 Amazing Autumn Jewellery Lauriston Castle, Cramond Road South Davidson's Mains. Booking essential www.usherhall.co.uk 10.30am -12.30pm. £4 per person. Take inspiration from the amazing autumn colours and textures at Lauriston and make unique jewellery – badges, bracelets, brooches and pendants.

October 14 & 15 pop up prosthetics National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street 11.00 –16.30, free (drop-in) Exciting interactives explore new technologies that are improving lives. Design your own prosthetic limb, find out more about how your mind controls your body, get to grips with prosthetics from the Museum collections and try out Virtual Reality (age 7+) and Leap Motion technologies.

October 15 Spooky pictures Lauriston Castle, Cramond Road South 10.30am -12.30pm. £4 per person. Booking essential Come and create a spooktacular gothic photo frame using some monstrously messy Modroc and decorate with terrifying things.

October 16 - 20 October half term at the palace 12:00 – 15:00.

Families are invited to the Palace of Holyroodhouse where they can enjoy the family audio tour and learn about the kings and queens of Scotland. During your visit, pick up a family activity trail and take inspiration from the state apartments as you doodle and complete activities on the visitor route.

From 12:00 – 15:00 in the family room, there will be an opportunity to create a water colour masterpiece. A learning assistant will also be on hand to allow families to get up close and handle replica object used at the Palace from strange smelling candles, chamber pots, children's games and much more.

familiesonline.co.uk

Out&About

contact or further booking information.

October 16 halloween magic School with Edinburgh International magic Festival Lauriston Castle, Cramond Road South, Davidson's Mains 10.30am - 12 noon. Ages 7-11. Booking essential www.usherhall.co.uk Learn to perform incredible magic and make new wizard friends. No previous magic experience necessary! Just bring yourself, your costume and your magic wands and we'll do the rest.

October 16 - 22 pick of the past National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street 11:00-16:00, free (drop-in).

Time-hop with us through our favourite periods in history – a different theme every day Mon-Fri! Take part in costume capers, gallery safaris, make and take activities and handson demos. We finish the week with our Big Jacobite Weekend, when Alan Breck's Regiment and the soldiers of 1745 take over the museum! Visit the Jacobite and Redcoats armies in their encampments and see them prepare for battle…

October 19 & 20 When yOU were young Scottish National Portrait Gallery 2-4pm Free, drop-in. For ages 2 - 12 A fun, photography and living memory workshop for all the family! Little ones can explore what life was like for their grown-ups, and recreate memories to keep forever.

October 28 & 29 Spooky Lauriston Lauriston Castle, Cramond Road South, Davidson's Mains, Booking essential, www.usherhall.co.uk £7 per person. Experience a variety of gruesome activities over 3 hours, and remember to wear your most terrifying costume. 10am - 1pm / £7 per person.

Saturday 21 & Sunday 22 October Steam Gala At the Boness & Kinneil railway See website for details www.bkrailway.co.uk Special weekend featuring a variety of steam locomotives and coaches. Special timetable & fares apply October 21 & 22 calling all pirates!

Shiver me timbers! Pirate Weekend is back at the Scottish Seabird Centre, North Berwick, ready to take on another weekend full of swashbuckling fun.

Join for an X-marks the spot competition, show us your sabre skills, try your hand at pirate penny games, and set out on a pirate treasure hunt. There will be plenty of other activities each day from 11:00 to 16:00 including arts and crafts as well as face painting.

All included with admission: adult £8.95, child £4.95, family ticket £25. Free for Seabird Members and under 3s. www.seabird.org ©Gareth Easton

October 17 Survive! Children’s events at The Water of Leith Visitors Centre for ages 4 - 12.

Booking essential! Call us 0131 455 7367 or email us admin@waterofleith.org.uk Learn how to build a den, light a fire and forage for food.

2pm—4pm / £5 per child—accompanying adult free Suitable for 4 to 12 year olds October 18 constable constructors!

Ages 4+. Scottish National Gallery. 10am-5pm,. Free, drop-in. Check the Events section of nationalgalleries.org for further details.

Children of all ages are invited along to the Scottish National Gallery during the half-term holiday to help us construct a full-size masterpiece from LEGO® bricks!

October 19 rotten! A rotten event which promises to leave you mucky! 2pm - 4pm / £5 per child accompanying adult free Suitable for 4 to 12 year olds. Booking essential!

Call us 0131 455 7367 or email us admin@waterofleith.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

October 28 Spooky Saturday; the all-day halloween party Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, 10am-8pm.

Put on your scariest outfit and join us on Spooky Saturday.

Not only can you enjoy the usual fun of Spooky Happenings, there's also dooking for apples, scary lanterns and many other traditional Halloween games. Once the sun goes down there's music and monster dancing, with rides that depart into the depth of the night. Come dressed to kill!

Saturday 28 & Sunday 29 October Steam ‘n’ Scream hallowe'en Weekend At the Boness & Kinneil Railway Come for some Halloween fun on the train! Halloween treats, a fancy dress competition and other spooky fun.

Come in fancy dress or else! For timetable and fares see website www.bkrailway.co.uk

Royal Collection Trust/© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 2017. Photographer David Cheskins

October 29 Jacobites Festival Day 13:00 – 16:00.

For full details of events and dates visit www.royalcollection.org.uk/whatson. Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh.

A fun-packed and stimulating day for all ages. Step back in time and immerse yourself in life at the court of Bonnie Prince Charlie in the autumn of 1745. Meet his admirer Maddie Pringle who will teach you Jacobite songs and eavesdrop on the Prince as he prepares for battle. Work with local artists to create your own portrait of the Prince, find out what a cockade was before making your own, listen to traditional Scottish music and follow in the footsteps of the Jacobites with our activity trail around the rooms used by the Prince.

COME BACK FOR FREE! Once you have bought a ticket from us, you can use it to come back for FREE for a year! A great way to fill the school holidays at no extra cost!

October 29 Summers End From 3pm. Booking essential! 0131 4557367 admin@waterofleith.org.uk Take a trip back in time to discover how our ancestors along the Water of Leith would herald the arrival of winter—from mischievous pranks and dressing up, to feasting and bonfires. Adventurous family events suitable for all. Meet at the Water of Leith Visitor Centre. £5 per participant / £15 per family group (up to 4), children 2 and under free.

Families Edinburgh 23

October at the Palace Enjoy a range of activities during the October half term and at our Jacobites Festival Day!

October Half Term

Jacobites Festival Day

Monday 16 to Friday 20 October 12:00 – 15:00

Sunday 29 October 13:00 – 16:00

ACtIvIty tRAIl ● wAtERColoUR woRkSHoP oBjECt HANDlINg ● AUDIo toUR ● FAMIly RooM ●

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A fun-packed and stimulating day for all ages.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in life at the court of Bonnie Prince Charlie in the autumn of 1745. There will be a range of family fun events for all audiences including:

ARtS AND CRAFt PoRtRAIt DRAwINg ClASS lIvE MUSIC ● CoStUME ACtoRS ● ACtIvIty tRAIlS ●

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COME BACK FOR FREE! Get your ticket stamped on your first visit and come back as many times as you like in a year at no extra cost!

Royal Collection Trust/© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 2017. Photographer David Cheskins

For full details of events and dates visit www.royalcollection.org.uk/whatson Families Edinburgh is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Edinburgh are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Edinburgh. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.