Families Oxfordshire Jan-Feb 2015

Issue 65 - January/ February 2015

Issue 6 5

Free

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Oxfordshire

See inside for

Eat yourself pregnant!

Choosing a nursery Plus

Don't miss details of the 2015 Stagecoach Charity Spectacular on page 4!

Families Oxfordshire - useful information for parents of 0 - 12's in Oxon.

Find us online at familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

January/ February 2015

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Oxfordshire Magazine

News & views Busy mums conquer fatigue with Pharmaton We all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy day and coping with everything can be an everyday battle.

Apparently, Pharmaton Vitality capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks. They are full of vitamins, minerals and the unique Ginseng G115 clinically proven to relieve fatigue and aid mental and physical wellbeing.

Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials and studies. Might be worth a try…

The UK’s ONLY crocodile zoo is in Oxfordshire At Crocodiles of the World in Brize Norton you can get face-to-face with some of the world’s most effective predators in a safe and fun environment.

There’s daily feeding, talks and your chance to hold some incredibly cute baby crocs. With over 100 species of crocodiles, it’s guaranteed to be a wild day out! And you’ll want to snap this one up! WIN a family ticket to Crocodiles of the World (2 adults, 2 children) by visiting www.crocodilesoftheworld. co.uk. We also have 5 super crocs calendars to give away! Simply get in touch through Families Oxfordshire online and we’ll send calendars to the first five people who write in!

What will you and the kids be wearing on 27 March?

Save the date for Wear A Hat Day 2015 – the UK’s fun-filled, premier annual brain tumour awareness event helping support long-term research and saving lives. One of the UK’s best-loved national fundraising events is coming back for its sixth year running, on Friday 27 March.

Organised by Charity Brain Tumour Research, this year is offering a fun, fresh challenge: the Wear A Hat Day Awards! By asking families, children and schools across the UK to register and on March 27 join in the fun as the UK gets its hat on! www.wearahatday.org

Kids learn to Tango & Salsa with Betty Bloom!

Betty Bloom Dance is a new local dance organisation offering a wide range of world dance styles and performance-oriented programmes in Tango, Salsa, the Charleston and a wide variety of traditional and modern styles. Founder, Kally Peigne, wants to introduce kids to the incredibly rich plethora of world dances styles and music genres, providing the foundations of social-dancing; a life-skill which will benefit them throughout their lives. Classes are for 2-15 year olds during term-time and most holidays.

For location details visit: www.bettybloomdance.co.uk

NEW tots music Positive Steps Nursery classes in East Oxford Invites New Parents Saltbox Music for 0-4 year olds has started a new class at Florence Park Community Centre, on Tuesdays, 10.30am 0-4 years and 11.30am 0-18 months classes. Tots can learn world music with games and puppets and instruments from around the globe!

Booking required on 01993 704207 or email: info@saltboxmusic.co.uk. Visit: www.saltboxmusic.co.uk

Positive Steps Children's Nursery in Shellingford, are having an open day on Friday 16 January, from 9.30am-3pm. Positive Steps pride themselves on providing a caring, home-from-home environment for children from 6 weeks to 5 years.

Savings of up to £260 for bookings made on the day of your visit.

For more details, please call 01367 718888 or visit www.positivestepsnurseries.co.uk

Improve your life with Harvest magazine Discover the UK’s first in-depth natural lifestyle magazine – your seasonal guide to a happy, healthy new you

Four issues for £15.95 with code HAPPY15

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Start off 2015 with clear goals

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January/ February 2015

ISSUE TWO

Winter 2014

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Oxfordshire Magazine

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Oxfordshire Magazine Editor: Ema Murphy 01993 815966 - 07733 228 038 editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

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12

Next issue: March/April 2015 Booking deadline: 1 February 2015 Copy deadline: 7 February 2015

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36,000 readers per issue Printed by Warners Designed by Rebecca Carr

How to Eat a Rainbow book give-away!

This delightful book of vegan recipes for kids is by local author and food blogger, Ellie Bedford.

In this issue...

Give-

away

In hardback and published

by Vegan Publishers (ISBN: 978-1-940184-04-3) this beautifully illustrated book is filled with mouth watering, nutritious recipes that children will love, but with a magical twist! The fairies share their special secrets that encourage little ones to eat their veggies, because that's what gives the fairies their sparkle! We also have one signed book to giveaway!

Simply go to www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk and send in your details by 31 January. The first name to be picked will receive this wonderful book.

4

Stagecoach Charity Spectacular 2015

5

News & views

6

School Matters

7

Education - State primary v prep schools

8

Parenting - which nursery’s best for your child

9

New Year, new approach to finances

10 Local clubs and classes 12 Eat yourself pregnant 13 Health - Being a good role model for your child 15 What’s on

Call us today to book your space in our March/April Issue

Confidence Building Fun

Call 0845 400 1276 or visit perform.org.uk to find your nearest venue.

Try a Free Drama Class January/ February 2015

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Oxfordshire Magazine 3

The Stagecoach Oxford Charity Spectacular

Looking For Elvis Sunday 8 March 2015 The New Theatre, Oxford The talented youngsters from Stagecoach Theatre Arts Oxford present ‘Looking for Elvis’, an action packed musical, full of energy, fun, song and dance to entertain the whole family. The youngsters are aged 4-18 and every two years, they gather together and produce a show in aid of local charities. Over 300 children and teens will take to the stage to rock the city in this musical spectacular. Many of the songs have been written specially for the show. The story follows an alien who bears an uncanny resemblance to Elvis, who must somehow escape the clutches of an evil government organisation. Only the school children can save him.

"Being in the Stagecoach Charity Spectacular, makes my mummy really proud and it helps me to improve my singing and dancing..."

Fin McDonagh, aged 8

"I love going to Stagecoach as I get to do singing, dancing and drama all of the time! Performing on the big stage for charity makes me feel really happy."

Darcy Brennan-Murphy, aged 9

Rosy (Respite nursing for Oxfordshire’s Sick Youngsters) is a charitable support group operating under the umbrella of the Oxfordshire Primary Care Trust Charity that is dedicated to the provision of additional respite care to Oxfordshire’s sick youngsters who are nursed at their own homes. Some children are born with life limiting or chronic conditions and others develop them early in their lives. Most can be nursed at home and children wish to be with their loved ones, their own pets, toys and familiar surroundings. Inevitably, this places an enormous burden on the families and ROSY provides them with support, both practical and nursing, to maintain their quality of life at the vital time.

Maggie’s provides free practical, emotional and social support to people with cancer and their family and friends, following the ideas about cancer care originally laid out by Maggie Keswick Jencks.

Built in the grounds of NHS cancer hospitals, Maggie’s Centres are places with professional staff on hand to offer the support people need.

Oxfordshire Magazine

Book your tickets today for Looking for Elvis

www.atgtickets.com 4 January/ February 2015

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk Tickets range from £14.50 - £22. Booking fees may apply.

Oxfordshire Magazine

Project1_size E house ad 01/12/2014 17:34 Page 1

What’s On finder!

The best family-friendly events We have more events and things to do for children than anyone else!

Search for Search

• • • • •

by date by age by category per area across UK

Thumbs up for hot school meals Woodstock mum of two, Maria Clavier, would like to say how pleased she is now compulsory school meals are in place for key stage 1 pupils.

Because of this, her daughter Lucy, at Woodstock Primary School, is now eating her greens, thanks to sitting with fellow pupils who do the same! Maria also says how after-school tantrums Lucy used to have, have disappeared; "I'm certain it's because Lucy is now more satisfied for longer, after eating a warm meal at lunch time."

g… in st

To find out more and subscribe online visit www.harvestmagazine.co.uk

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Be inspired in 2015. Stretch your mind and improve your life with Harvest magazine; the UK’s first in-depth natural lifestyle magazine produced in Oxfordshire village of Tackly.

It's your seasonal companion to help you and your family lead healthier, happier lives.

Families Oxfordshire readers can enjoy 20% off their first year’s subscription with code HAPPY15.

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New Year, New Healthy Happy You!

News & views

• Children's shows throughout London • Museums and galleries suitable for families • FREE events • Days out • Indoor fun • Special events (school Open days, Christmas, Halloween, markets etc)

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk www.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Sign in to our newsletter, packed with local events, shows, fairs, nearly new sales, exhibitions, competitions and much more We never pass on your details to anyone else.

Spring an summ d e shows r no bookin w g!

Inspiring and enriching young people through the performing arts.

Stagecoach offers the ideal balance of learning, performing and, of course, fun! Top quality training in drama, singing and dance to inspire creativity and develop young talent age 4-18.

Skills for the stage – skills for life!

Stagecoach Schools OXFORD 01869 278600 Maya Sprigg email: oxford@stagecoach.co.uk

ABINGDON 01865 390970 Julia Howson email: abingdon@stagecoach.co.uk

BANBURY 01908 969467 Melissa Allen email: banbury@stagecoach.co.uk

THAME 01865 763767 Nicky Goodwin email: thame@stagecoach.co.uk

www.stagecoach.co.uk

Theatre Arts Schools

Stagecoach January/ February 2015

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

TM

Oxfordshire Magazine 5

Education

School Matters

Independent School Open Days Spring 2015

Rugby pro coaches’ local pupils Abingdon School welcomed the World Cup winning scrum half and TV rugby pundit to the School where he coached 12 boys, from the First Year to the Sixth Form, on the basics of playing scrum half. Matt also led a Q&A session with the 46 boys who will be touring Australia and New Zealand next August, giving the boys tips on the culture they will face playing rugby in New Zealand.

Over-praising pupils can lead to low attainment A recent report by the Sutton Trust, ‘What Makes Great Teaching’, claims that lavishing praise on low-attaining students is not encouraging, but can in fact give a message of low expectations. Other commonly used teaching methods, such as streaming by ability, are shown to have little positive effect. Professor Robert Coe, from Durham University said: “Great teaching cannot be achieved by following a recipe, but there are some clear pointers in the research to approaches that are most likely to be effective, and to others, sometimes quite popular, that are not.”

Further reading: www.telegraph.co.uk/education/ educationopinion/11204935/What-really-makes-greatteaching.html

Manor Prep School Abingdon, OX13 6LN 01235 858462 www.manorprep.org Open Morning Thursday 22 January 9.30am-11.30am Cranford House Little Willows Nursery School Moulsford, OX10 9HT 01491 651218 www.cranfordhouse.net Open Morning Friday 13 February 10am – 12 noon Junior School Open Morning Thursday 26 February 9.30am – 12 noon Junior School Open Week 2-6 March 9.30am – 3.00pm Senior School Open Evening Thursday 30 April 6.30pm – 8.30pm Oxford High School Oxford, OX2 6XA 01865 559888 www.oxfordhigh.gdst.net Girls, 4-18 yrs Open days in autumn and summer terms.

Our Lady’s Abingdon Abingdon, OX14 3PS 01235 524658 www.olab.org.uk Boys & girls, 3-18 yrs Open Morning Thursday 12 March 9.30am-11.45am Abingdon Preparatory School Frilford, OX13 5NX 01865 391570 www.abingdon.org.uk/prep Boys 4-13 yrs & girls 4-7 yrs Open Morning Reception Year 4 Thursday 26 February The Oratory Preparatory School Goring Heath, RG8 7SF 0118 984 4511 www.oratoryprep.co.uk Catholic, co-ed day & boarding school, for 2-13 year olds Open Morning Saturday 7 March 10am-12.30pm Please contact the schools prior to the open days to confirm your attendance.

“Outstanding” in every category

ISI Inspection Report 2014

OPEN DAY

Thursday 22 January 2015 9.30am-11.30am For more details please contact: Mrs Karen Copson 01235 858462 admissions@manorprep.org Faringdon Road, Abingdon, Oxon OX13 6LN www.manorprep.org

6 January/ February 2015

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Oxfordshire Magazine

Education

State primary v prep school – the pros and cons

by Hannah Hunter If you’re not lucky enough to live in catchment, getting your children into a good local primary school can be difficult, to say the least. Some inner-city areas have waiting lists into the 100s for primary schools rated ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted. In some areas, as few as one in four children get a place at their first choice of school.

We all want to give our children the best start in their educational life. If you can afford it, the independent sector can provide an alternative to the postcode lottery of the current state education system. There are an increasing number of parents looking at this route – a report from the association of Teachers and Lecturers shows numbers rising at their fastest rate since 2008.

Both systems have their benefits and drawbacks; it’s up to individual families to decide what’s best for them.

In favour of prep schools

Assuming you have the means to pay the fees, a prep school can provide the ideal start for your child.

Small class sizes mean more one-to-one attention, helpful for children with learning difficulties or other additional needs. Teachers have time to challenge more able children - prep schools often have specific gifted programmes.

other interests, offering a variety of extracurricular activities, such as dance, drama and music, which you wouldn’t be able to access in the state system.

In defense of the state primary school

Their better working conditions, with more resources and higher salaries, mean that independent schools attract the best teachers.

A higher staff to pupil ratio, on average about 1:10 (it’s around 1:20 at state primaries), gives staff and pupils time to get to know one another, resulting in children who feel really valued and cared for.

Prep schools were originally designed to prepare children for senior school, so if you’re looking at an independent secondary school they will ensure your child gets the best out of their common entrance exam (necessary in getting a scholarship or bursary). In grammar schools areas, prep schools will also offer preparation for the 11+.

It’s not just the academic kids who will benefit from what a prep school offers. Sport is taken very seriously, and they will offer a wide range, from rugby to badminton. They also cater for

One huge advantage of going to a local primary school is that your child will be a real part of the community. They will be able to walk to school, their friends will live nearby, and they will get to know lots of people in the area. This early lesson in how society works teaches them how to get along with people from different races and classes.

Your local prep school might appear to be better in league tables, but they have a socially selected intake. Children from advantaged backgrounds will do better in life whatever their schooling. Taking a real interest in your kids – spending time with them, reading to them, taking them to museums – is surely better than working extra hours away from home to pay for large school fees.

It’s not a race! Just because a friend’s kids might be reading or playing the violin aged 4 at their local pre-prep, doesn’t mean your child won’t be doing similar things in their own time. Research indicates that state educated university students with the same grades as their independent-schooled counterparts actually achieve better class of degree.

Catholic independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2 to 13

Open Morning Saturday 7 March 10.00am – 12.30pm

Abingdon Prep School

Open Morning for Reception to Year 4

Thursday 26 February Goring Heath, South Oxfordshire, RG8 7SF tel: 0118 984 4511 email: office@oratoryprep.co.uk website: www.oratoryprep.co.uk

January/ February 2015

01865 391570 registrar@abingdonprep.org.uk abingdon.org.uk/prep www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Oxfordshire Magazine 7

Things to consider: Staff and ethos See what the turnover of staff is (always a good indicator of happiness) and check their qualifications. The presence of older staff members brings added life experience and suggests that the nursery values its staff enough to pay for this. Check out the routines, such as what food they offer and when it’s served, or when and where the children can nap.

Choosing the best nursery For many parents, nurseries are the ideal choice for childcare. They offer working hours, with a lot of flexibility - you can choose hours to suit you, from a few half days to full working weeks. Nurseries give children the opportunity to socialise with groups of other children and adults. They can also give a reassuring continuity of care, with an assigned key worker. Your child may be at the same setting from babyhood, right until they start at school.

For some, finding the right nursery can be a difficult and stressful process. The first time you hand over full-time care of your precious offspring to someone else is always going to be emotional, so you want to be absolutely sure that you have made the right choice for all of you.

Different types of nursery

It’s important to research what’s available as early as possible to find the best fit. www.gov.uk/find-nursery-school-place

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directs you to your local council’s website, which will list all Ofsted-checked registered childcare providers.

Your different options may include: Day Nurseries Great for working parents, as they are usually open from 8am-6pm Nursery Schools For older toddlers (usually about 2 and a half and up) these nurseries offer a more structured preparation for school Nursery classes in school Usually run for the year before reception, they have a similar structure to nursery schools, though often only run half-day sessions.

Montessori and Steiner nurseries Montessori philosophy informs how their schools are run, they are seen as the originators of child centred learning, and there is a focus on developing each child’s independence and skills.

Focusing on creative play, Steiner schools don’t believe in any formal teaching until the age of 6.

Read more here: www.familiesonline.co.uk/ LOCATIONS/Chiltern/Articles2/ Nursery-and-preschool/What-areall-the-different-types-of-nursery/ (language)/eng-GB

Your first visit

Book during your visit and save up to £260

8 January/ February 2015

Make time to look around potential nurseries, well before you are going to need to use them. Read the Ofsted report (www. ofsted.gov.uk) [Scotland: www.hmie.gov. uk ],and make a list of your priorities before you go. See if you can find out any first hand information from friends (though bear in mind what’s good for one family might not work for another). www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Cost Be realistic in how much you can pay. A perfect work-life balance doesn’t mean working more hours to pay for a ‘better’ nursery! Most nurseries have funded places for 3 to 5-year-olds, and your workplace may offer childcare vouchers, a tax-free way to pay. You may also be eligible for childcare tax credits, to find out more www.gov.uk/help-with-childcare-costs The ‘feel’ of the place Going by gut instinct alone isn’t advisable, but if you don’t get a good feeling, it might not be the place for your child. Happy staff and children can make up for a lack of perfection in other areas. Look out for children’s work on the walls, and staff who actually play with the kids rather than stand around chatting.

Your child’s personality Is your child quiet and shy, or loud and outgoing? Do they love playing outdoors, or prefer indoor games? It seems obvious, but try to match the nursery to your child’s interests.

Your own needs!

There might be a wonderful nursery half an hour drive away from you, but consider how will both of your tiredness levels be after this daily journey - would you be better to find somewhere closer that is a good fit?

Equally the most convenient, say a workplace nursery, may not be the best for your child.

Useful links www.ndna.org.uk National Day Nurseries Association offer expert advice and information for parents looking for childcare.

The Family and Childcare Trust is a campaigning organisation with helpful information for parents. This site will help you find your local Family Information Service: http://findyourfis. familyandchildcaretrust.org/kb5/findyourfis/ home.page giving local information, advice and assistance to parents, carers and professionals on the range of children, family and young people's services. www.ofsted.gov.uk www.montessori.org.uk http://www.steinerwaldorf.org

Oxfordshire Magazine

Finance

New ways of sorting finances this new year

By Sally Johnson, Director, Madiston LendLoanInvest Any parent knows how difficult it can be to say ‘no’ to your kids. You may have already felt this over Christmas, when the anticipation can be so intense for young children, to disappoint them on the big day feels like utter cruelty.

But the reality is that many parents struggle to find the cash to tick off everything on the list at Christmas and resort to piling up expensive credit card debt to cover the costs. This can leave parents in an unenviable position of playing catch-up on debt in the New Year. Many credit cards have interest rates of up to 30 per cent, so this can become quite a mountain to climb as the year progresses and the bills mount up.

However there are now plenty of alternative finance routes; accessible online platforms that can help borrowers with good credit records to get unsecured loans to pay off expensive credit card debt at sensible rates.

Peer to peer lending (P2PL) Started online in 2005, giving people the opportunity to make the most of their finances through either lending their money to grow their savings, or borrowing at a reasonable rate, to and from their ‘peers’.

But how does it actually work? Borrowing money from a P2PL website is no more complicated than applying for a credit card. You first have to register with your chosen site and take some time to understand the terms and how the site operates. You will need to be creditworthy to be accepted on any reputable site, so if you’ve had problems with debt in the past, P2PL may not be for you. Once you have registered on the site, there are generally four basic steps to secure your loan. You will need to decide:

1

£

?

how much you want to borrow

2

Create your loan request. With some sites you will be able to appeal directly to the lenders so you can write (anonymously) about your requirements and why lenders should feel comfortable lending to you.

Other sites will automatically match you with lenders whose preferences match your loan request. Always be truthful because all reputable sites will check your credit references and your ability to repay.

3

Lenders then offer a portion of your loan each, combining together to satisfy your whole loan.

how long you want to borrow for

4

You accept or reject your loan offer.

Assuming you accept the loan, the site will manage the process for you, collecting your repayments and distributing them to the lenders who backed your loan.

P2PL offers flexibility and choice to the borrower, and can be much cheaper. Of course any form of borrowing isn’t without risk, and as with a credit card or bank loan, if you miss monthly payments, this could seriously harm your credit record.

If you feel comfortable with managing debt but just want an affordable option, the

APR

how much interest you are prepared to pay

internet can offer a valuable guide to the alternatives like P2P lending out there. A quick Google search will reveal most of the P2PL providers, who are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The Peer to Peer Finance Association (p2pfa.info) is also a good reference point as it requires its members to operate by a strict set of rules to maintain high standards in the industry.

Shop around to find the lending platform out there that best suits your needs.

Make it your New Year’s resolution in 2015 to keep your finances in check and make your money work harder for you!

Put down the gadgets for more family time in 2015 In a world with ever-increasing technological mediums, the balance between electronic and traditional play can become uneven. While there’s a great place for learning through apps, computers and TV, it’s often an activity of solitude. Why not redress this balance and make more of an effort to interact as a family more traditionally more often?

Engage with your child in a FUN activity. It could be cooking, making things, drawing, story-telling or playing a board game. Or get outdoors for a walk, head to the park or go for an ice-cream or hot chocolate at your nearest café. We’re sure you may already be doing this, as most families do engage in some form of traditional play. But the New Year’s a good time to look at the time we are spending with our children and what we do with it. Let’s spend more quality time together as a family - with a little less gadgetry!

January/ February 2015

EXCELLENT in all categories, ISI 2014 JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING 26 FEBRUARY Please join us for our Junior School Open Morning on Thursday 26 February, 9.30am – 12 noon Future Open Events in 2015: Little Willows Open Morning: 13 February, 10.00am – 12 noon Junior School Open Week: 2 – 6 March, 9.30am – 3.00pm For more information contact our Director of Admissions on 01491 651218 or admissions@cranfordhouse.net

www.cranfordhouse.net Telephone: 01491 651218 An independent school, boys from 3- 7, girls from 3-16

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Registered Charity Number: 280883

Oxfordshire Magazine 9

Clubs & Classes

Clubs & classes At Families we want to help you to find suitable activities for your children. Our mission is to find as many of them as possible in Oxfordshire (but this may take some time!) If you know of any please do send in details to editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk.

We will include another updated list in our Sept-October 2015 issue. If you do make contact with any of these classes, remember to say where you saw them.

McGahan Lees Irish Dance Academy 07971 035 797 www.marionflanagon.co.uk Irish dancing for children 3 upwards and adults in Oxford, Abingdon and Bicester. (Formerly Marion Flanagon School.) Private lessons and holiday workshops available.

Betty Bloom Dance www.bettybloomdance.co.uk Great new classes for Tango, Salsa, the Charleston and a wide variety of other styles of dance, traditional and modern, offering a wide range of world dance styles and performanceoriented programmes.

Introducing kids to a rich plethora of world dances styles and music genres. Classes for children from 2-15years in termtime and most holidays.

DANCE Whitestar Performers A host of classes for everyone beginning on 13th January 2015 including Family Yoga for parents, grandparents and carers, Mini Stars Dance classes for 3-6’s, Stage School for 7-12’s all in Kidlington.There is also Hatha Yoga for adults in Kidlington and Witney along with a more gentle yoga class.

07717837706 info@whitestaryogaanddance.co.uk www.whitestaryogaanddance.co.uk

Babyballet 07583048496 www.babyballet.co.uk A magical movement-to-music class for little dancers aged 6 months-5 years with Charlotte Russell. Classes in Witney.

swimming classes for bumps, babies and beyond across Oxfordshire

Find a class near you... facebook.com/swimkidzoxfordshire tina@swimkidz.co.uk 07904 663814 www.swimkidz.co.uk

Free Happy Nappy

when you book a course

Flair Dance Studio 01993 813373 www.flairdancestudio.co.uk Freestyle disco and street dance classes in Oxford, Woodstock, Witney and Bicester for all ages The Jill Stew School of Dance 01993 772464 www.jillstew.co.uk Classes in Witney.

Classical Ballet from 3yrs, Modern Dance, Tap Dancing, Contemporary Dance, Jazz Dance and much more.

Marianna’s School of Dance 07747 481 798 Fun & inspiring ballet with RAD possibility for exams. At the Yoga Garden. Behind Cibo’s, South Parade, Summertown.

BABY & TOTS Tiny Tigers Education 01235 364371 theresa@candomartialarts.co.uk www.tinytigerseducation.co.uk Exciting karate based motor skills development for 2-6 year olds.

Nature Tots 01235 862024 christinedonaldson@bbowt.org.uk For pre-school ages to interact with nature through outdoor play, games and stories in Sutton Courtenay Environment Centre.

Baby College 01865 436920 www.babycollegeoxford.co.uk Fun parent and baby development classes in Botley and Witney. Plus baby massage and yoga classes.

Little Wild Things 07855 625 402 www.littlewildthings.org.uk Little Wild Things is all about outdoor nature play for children, making mud pies, climbing trees and building dens, set in an Oxfordshire woodland! Including hands-on sessions for children and their families. Get your little ones to spend more time outdoors to learn to understand, love and be inspired by nature.

Visit our website for up-to-date details about activities.

Baby Signing 07927 339 102 www.tinytalk.co.uk With Tiny Talk for 0-2 yrs, singing, sign and relax at Drayton Village Hall, Abingdon OX14 4LG.

Tatty & Baby Bumpkin 0845 680 3476 www.tattybumpkin.com To enhance well-being with yoga, story-telling, active play and music Rugbytots 0845 313 6707 www.rugbytots.co.uk Rugbytots is a specially designed programme using rugby skills, fun and enjoyable whilst developing basic core skills 2-7 year olds.

MUSIC Clockwork Music 07528 146 891 / 07757 011 539 www.clockworkmusic.co.uk Pre-school music classes following a specialist music curriculum for babies from three months to 4 years, in four age specific groups. Original and traditional music, rhymes and games. In Central and North Oxford, Headington, Kennington, Abingdon and Thame. Free trial sessions! New classes opening in North Oxford Robert Wiecha Music Tuition 07450 296 998 musictutorials@live.co.uk Children and adults learn to play the piano or guitar by classically trained teacher with home visits.

My Sound My Self Musicianship 07545 122 869 www.mysoundmyself.com Educational and fun singing and musicianship classes (Kodály specialisation) for ages 3+, music therapy and mindfulness training for 11-19 year olds. Small classes in Oxford, facilitate learning, development and discovery.

Yoga & Dance Classes in Kidlington Children age 3+ Stage School age 6+ Adults Tuesday & Thursday group classes Private sessions Small group bookings Home visits available Contact: Tanya White on 07717 837706 or info@whitestarperformers.co.uk

www.whitestarperformers.co.uk 10 January/ February 2015

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Oxfordshire Magazine

Clubs & Classes Matrix Music School & Arts Centre 01235 847264 www.matrixmusicschool.co.uk The Yamaha Music School at Matrix offers group music courses for beginners aged 3-7 years.

The curriculum includes singing, piano/keyboard playing, reading/ writing, music appreciation and more at various levels. Also at Matrix: art, ballet, fitness and instrumental lessons.

MAD Academy 01869 369502 www.madacademy.com High energy music and dancing classes for babies and children.

Salt Box Music Co. 01993 704207 / 07710154601 www.saltboxmusic.co.uk Fun & educational group music sessions for 0- 4 year olds; Global percussion! Puppets & props! Musical games!

Instruments used from all over the world. Weekly classes include a wide range of techniques to develop core skills such as rhythm, tempo, pitch, texture, and dynamics, now in East Oxford (Florence Park), Witney, Botley and Carterton.

Free taster sessions.

BirdSong Music 01865 559649 www.birdsongmusic.co.uk BirdSong runs classes for babies, toddlers and young children with a philosophy based on learning about music while having fun, involving singing in groups and linking music with movement.

Classes are held in Summertown and Wolvercote.

SWIMMING Water Babies 01869 325499 www.waterbabies.co.uk Teaching babies to swim in various locations in Oxford core skills from birth upwards.

Dippers & Divers 01235 763328 www.dippersanddivers.co.uk For babies, beginners and after school in Abingdon, Wolvercote and Harwell Primary School.

Puddleducks 01666 577377 www.puddleducks.com For babies and pre-school ages upwards. Classes in Abingdon, Didcot and Oxford areas.

Swimkidz Oxford 07904663814 tina@swimkidz.co.uk Fun and stimulating swimming lessons for children from birth, across Oxfordshire. With highly qualified instructors, warm pools and small class sizes to ensure you and your child enjoy and achieve the best from their lessons.

MARTIAL ARTS Washinkai Karate www.washinkai.org Cherwell School, Oxford.

5.30-6.30pm, Mon for ages 5-11 Kung Fu Academy www.kung-fu-academy.co.uk South Oxfordshire Community Centre, Lake St. Oxford. 7.30pm.

Traditional martial arts classes.

SPORTS Teen Fit Classes 07724 010 664 www.bodyfitsolutions.co.uk Body Fit Solutions in Witney do innovative classes for 13-18 year olds on Wednesdays and Fridays 4pm, encouraging them to get active, fit and healthy in body and in mind. Visit or call for more information and many other classes for adults including Pilates.

ACTIVITIES TRAX Motor Project 01865 243077 www.trax.org.uk Activity days for ages 8+.

Mechanics, archery and more in a safe environment.

Kidlington Youth Football Club Steveforse@talktalk.net

GYMNASTICS Abingdon Gymnastics Club 01865 340992 www.abingdongymclub.co.uk For tots and pre-school upwards and holiday classes for a wide range of gymnastics.

Oxford Karate Academy 07956 902 101 United Reform Church, Banbury Rd, Oxford, OX2 7HN. Karate for all ages.

Oxford Rhythmic Gymnastics 07866846273 gymnastics@dancegz.co.uk For girls from ages 3-16 who want to master rhythm and skills.

THEATRE/ PERFORMANCE Stagecoach 01869 278600 oxford@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/ oxfordshire Where children are taught how to sing, dance and act on stage and beyond. See your child gain confidence, rise to the challenge and build essential life skills while learning and having fun! Weekly classes throughout Oxfordshire and half term workshops.

Youngstar Oxford 01235 539772 www.youngstaroxford.tv/ TV & Film acting for 8-18’s.

Nurturing talented actors hoping for a route in to TV and film.

Learn to swim With Jane Brooks 07855 324417 www.janebrooksgymandswim ASA Swimming teacher.

Mini media workshops www.mini-mediakids.com Creative fun for 6-11 years at Barefoot Books, Summertown.

Premier Tennis 0845 475 1147 hello@premiertennis.co.uk www.premiertennis.co.uk Tennis coaching and camps for tots to teenagers and adults in Oxford.

Little Kickers 01235 859 250 www.littlekickers.co.uk Football classes for kids 18 months-7 years. In Oxford, Didcot, Wallingford & Wantage.

Creative Art 01608 677558 www.lisajayne.uk.com At the Lisa Jane Art Studio at The Stables, Radford Farm, Nr Enstone, Oxfordshire OX7 4EB.

Oxfordshire Taekwon-do & Little Puma’s 07831 950 850 www.oxfordshiretkd.co.uk For all ages in Didcot, Wantage and Grove.

Oxford Swim School 01865 864537 www.oxfordswimschool.co.uk An exciting venture at Oxford High School, Summertown. Intensive week courses and more.

January/ February 2015

Perform 0845 400 1276 Enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/venues/ areas/Oxford For 4-12 year olds, Perform uses a unique mix of drama, dance and singing formulated to bring out every child's true potential. Classes are small to ensure individual attention by experienced teachers. Classes in Jericho, Botley & Abingdon.

Charlbury Cricket Club 07818 255 388 andreamayho@aol.com

Little Monkeys Gym 01865 841409 janebrooksgymandswim.com Little Monkeys Gym teaches preschool gymnastics to children who can walk up to 4.

Witney and Standlake Tennis Club 07734 059 769 info@exceltennis.co.uk Rugby at Gosford All Blacks 01865 373994

YOGA Pregnancy Yoga 01865 245754 www.yogavenue.co.uk At Yogavenue. Suitable for 14 weeks plus. 6 week course.

Pre-school Music Classes Oxford, Thame, Headington, Abingdon Specialist music curriculum for babies from three months to four year-olds, in four progressive classes

Free Trial

Oxford (St Giles) and Summertown

claire@clockworkmusic.co.uk (or 07528 146891)

Thame, Headington, Abingdon karen@clockworkmusic.co.uk (or 07757 011539)

www.clockworkmusic.co.uk

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Oxfordshire Magazine 11

Health & Fitness

Eat yourself pregnant Forget faddy diets - Nutritionist Christine Bailey explains how to boost your chances of conceiving a healthy baby by optimising your intake of essential fertility nutrients.

sure your man gets plenty too as low levels are linked to reduced sperm count. Best foods include: pumpkin seeds, lean meat and poultry, shellfish particularly oysters.

My research and experience as a nutritionist has shown me that nutrient dense, unprocessed food (and supplements as necessary) forms the bedrock of getting your body baby-ready and of making healthy eggs and sperm. There is now much scientific evidence to indicate that micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) play a big role in getting pregnant – both naturally and through assisted conception – with deficiencies having significant effects on fertility for both men and women. It is for this reason I wrote my latest recipe book Eat Yourself Pregnant with fertility expert Zita West (www.christinebailey.co.uk).

Selenium & Vitamin E

Here are some of the top nutrients you and your partner need to give you the best chance of conceiving a healthy baby.

Folic Acid

Most of us will be aware of the role of folic acid in preventing spina bifida in your baby, so it is essential that you get plenty both before and during pregnancy. However folic acid together with other B vitamins (especially B12 and B6) are also vital for the production of genetic materials DNA and RNA, not only of the egg but also the sperm. Increase your intake of leafy green vegetables, avocado and asparagus. For B12 make sure you consume sufficient protein rich foods such as fish, meat, dairy products and eggs.

Zinc

Zinc has been widely studied in terms of fertility for both men and women. It is an essential component of genetic material and a zinc deficiency can lead to reduced fertility and an increased risk of miscarriage. Make

Selenium and vitamin E are important antioxidant that helps to protect your body from damaging chemicals known as free radicals. It is therefore helpful for protecting the egg and also important for sperm formation. Munch on a handful of Brazil nuts a day to keep up your levels of selenium or snack on nuts and seeds for vitamin E.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

These essential fats have a profound effect on your hormones so don’t go on a low fat diet. Eat plenty of oily fish, flaxseed, walnuts and chia seeds. Sperm quality can be improved by having an optimum levels of these fats.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is also an antioxidant, and studies show that vitamin C enhances sperm quality, protecting sperm and the DNA within it from damage. It may also improve motility of the sperm by preventing them from clumping together. Some of the best sources are citrus fruit, leafy green vegetables and berries.

Beta-Carotene and Vitamin A

Beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant, which helps to protect egg and sperm DNA from damage, which can affect the quality of both the egg, and sperm. Foods such as sweet potato, butternut squash and green leaf vegetables are great sources. Vitamin A is a vital nutrient for the production of healthy eggs and mucosal tissue.

High doses in supplement form are not recommended during pregnancy.

Iodine

Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormones and thus important for a women’s hormonal cycle control as well as for the development of the foetus. The best sources really are sea vegetables or try increasing your intake of fish, shellfish and eggs

Vitamin D

Low vitamin D deficiency is significant for male fertility, as it affects the motility of the sperm the sperm nucleus. It may also be associated with lower libido. Best source is sunlight but you can get some through oily fish, eggs and mushrooms.

Further information and healthy recipes to support fertility and a healthy pregnancy can be found in Eat Yourself Pregnant by Zita West and Christine Bailey (Nourish Books) www.christinebailey.co.uk.

New Year New You: time to detox our lives?

Many of us wake up on January 1st feeling exhausted from Christmas, a little worse for wear from the night before and desperate for the kids to go back to school. But we also find ourselves scribbling lists of New Year’s resolutions – to get fit, lose weight, get stuck in to that pile of paperwork on the kitchen table and, often, to give our working lives a shake up too.

or to re-train in something that will get us leaping out of bed every morning!

From a new job or a whole new career, the world is your oyster as a working mum. If your hours are limited by the school run, setting up your own business or taking up a franchise can offer you the opportunity to do something you love while working flexible hours, and the options are limitless.

The New Year is not just about detox-ing our bodies – it can also be a time to detox our lives. In fact, January is a fantastic time for those of us with children in nursery or full time education for the first time to go back to work, start a new venture, set up our own business

You can choose anything from running a yoga franchise to teaching little ones dance or drama, from teaching Spanish to starting your own Families magazine!

12 January/ February 2015

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Take a course, start a marketing business, design websites, set up a blog, open a café – it’s up to you.

There are plenty of websites out there to help you get started and find a new job, re-train, choose the right business, give you ideas, advise you on tax and even help you design your logo, so there’s no excuse not to get stuck in this New Year.

Take a look at: www.gov.uk/starting-up-a-business www.workingmums.co.uk www.mumandcareer.co.uk www.mumandworking.co.uk

Oxfordshire Magazine

Health & Fitness

Are you a healthy role model for your children?

According to the health survey of England more than 1/3 of the population are not doing enough exercise to produce health benefits. We know physical activity is closely linked to good health and disease prevention but how do parent’s activity levels affect the future fitness level of their child? Young children are not just “naturally active”. Their parents have an important role to play in the development of their healthy activity habits. Our children have a better chance of being healthy and active if they see their parents doing it. Kelly Vanderboom, professional fitness instructor at Body Fit Solutions in Witney, asks are we physically active role models for our kids?

Do we have a positive relationship with exercise and food that will be passed onto our children? And explains what we can do to help our children to be active and healthy, now and into adulthood.

Our Habits People can be less active because of sedentary jobs, more driving, more computer gaming, online shopping (delivered to your door!), watching TV and quicker alternatives to cooking. The modern adult spends about seven hours a day sitting and this has major effects on posture, fitness and energy levels. Posture imbalances caused from sitting too much and being less active are major factors in the chronic pain we see in the clients we train at our Pilates and Fitness Studio in Witney.

One quarter of the adult population of England are overweight and 20% of children aged 6-11years are obese. Even in the 4-5 year range 13% were overweight.

Overweight parents tend over feed and under-exercise their children, according to research, leading them on the same path to obesity. Therefore, educating children on eating healthy and being more active needs to come from home.

Modern Life As computers, i-pads and mobile phones consume more time in a child’s life, children risk becoming less and less physically fit.

January/ February 2015

•

The child health journal Acta Paediatrica found the arm strength of 10 year olds has declined in the last 10 years.

•

More teenagers are developing poor posture due to being slumped over computer games and watching too much television. This poor posture can lead to back problems later in life.

•

A UK study of 6,500 children aged seven to eight, found that only 51% achieved the recommended hour of physical activity each day, with girls (38%) proving to be far less active than boys (63%).

•

The average British child gets their first mobile phone aged around 12, but nearly one in 10 has one by the age of five. FIVE!

It's during childhood when habits are ingrained and the freedom exists for active play and movement. What happened to kids coming home from school and running outside to play? Are you taking time to actively participate with your children whenever you can? When did we stop being kids ourselves? I believe the more we can tap into our inner child and start to enjoy exercise more this will be infectious for our kids.

Learn to be a kid again and enjoy the health benefits from being physically active. In this generation of declining activity and increasing technology we have to keep the spirit of exercise alive!

“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” George Bernard Shaw

Author: Kelly Vanderboom Kelly is an Honours graduate of Kinesiology and Sports Science, Master Pilates therapist, Personal Trainer and Sports Rehab Specialist. She has 15 years in the fitness industry working with children and adults to help them build healthy lifestyles for life. Her core values are to help people be active longer with intelligent exercise and focus on good form and technique. She is passionate about her work and thrives on changing lives for the better.

Body Fit Solutions, Bridge Street Mill, Witney, OX28 1YH 07724010664 info@bodyfitsolutions.co.uk www.bodyfitsolutions.co.uk

So Start with yourself.

Are you participating in some regular exercise each week? Do you eat healthy and understand what a balanced diet and portion size is for your children? Go for a family play swim, go rock climbing, join a dance class and teach your kids the moves or play on the active Wii games together as a family.

If your children can see that you are participating in regular exercise for yourself and taking time out they will follow suit.

Join your 13-18 years olds into a Teen Fit program Wednesdays and Fridays 4pm or sign up yourself for our Vision Wild Run. This 5-10km mud run through dirty obstacles is a real challenge and a chance to make your kids proud. www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk 55346 Pharmaton UK AD 87mm x 130mm AW.indd 1

Oxfordshire Magazine 13 08/07/2014 12:44

Visitors are welcome throughout the year, please just telephone the Registrar, Fern Saxton to make an appointment.

Independent Catholic boarding and day school for 400 girls aged 3-18 (and day boys aged 3-8)

Pullen’s Lane, Oxford OX3 0BY

01865 762802

Big enough to challenge: small enough to care

enquiries@ryestantony.co.uk www.ryestantony.co.uk

Maths & English tuition Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to children aged 5-14, designed to improve knowledge, confidence and enjoyment of learning.

Families Oxfordshire.indd 14 January/ February 20151

tries new things with relish. She counts the days until she can come back here!”

Explore Parent.

Book your free trial session today to find out how Explore Learning can help your child to gain confidence, enthusiasm and new skills.

HILDCARE

USE THEM AT EXPLORE!

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01865 595 509

Inside Sainsbury’s, Oxford

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As members, children work with tutors who are great role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. The individual focus allows children to work at their own pace – whether they are finding school tricky or are top of the class!

“The hesitancy and lack of confidence that held her back is gone. Now she

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Explore helps children make fantastic academic progress, in addition the vibrant atmosphere keeps them engaged and focussed enabling them to have fun while they learn.

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

www.explorelearning.co.uk/oxford

01/08/2012 14:55 Oxfordshire Magazine

What's on in January & February

Theatre & Music Snow White on Ice 8-11 January

New Theatre, Oxford

2.30pm, 3pm & 7.30pm The world famous Russian Ice Stars will take you on a magical journey to the heart of the best loved fairytale of all time, Snow White. Starring Rustie Lee as Fairy News Reporter. The original story of an enchanted mirror, a beautiful girl, Prince Charming and a red apple comes to life on ice. Sure to thrill the whole family. Check online for daily times. www.atgtickets.com

Once in a Blue Moon 10 January

Pegasus Theatre

11am, 2pm It’s the moons birthday and he is having a party! All are invited but how to get there? Journey to the moon and meet curious creatures along the way, with dance, live music audience participation will provide a magical experience. For ages 3-6. Plus free workshop for families on 8 Jan. Check online for more details! £5 adult, £3 child. www.pegasustheatre.org.uk

Beauty and the Beast Until 18 Jan

The Oxford Playhouse

Beauty and the Beast gets a magical makeover, in this wonderful retelling of the classic tale, bursting with songs, slapstick and plenty of panto mischief, when heroine, Beauty, takes a wrong turn in the forest she is trapped by a dastardly beast: can she discover the heart of a monster? With daring stunts, fairies, monsters, witches and true love, there’s something for everyone in this brilliant festive fun. Everyone aged 5 to 105 will all fall in love with this beautiful Pantomime. It’d be beastly to miss it! www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Concert

25 January

Jacqueline du Pre Music Building, St Hilda’s College

Rozzy and Mr Cello are joined by their highly acclaimed friends the Millbrook Ensemble piano quartet to introduce children to the exciting world of chamber music for piano and strings. Hear how the different voices of the instruments weave together to create magical musical stories! £5.

11am www.sthildas.ox.ac.uk/jdp

The Magic Porridge Pot and Other Tasty Tales

FAME the Musical

The North Wall

Henley-on-Thames Set in New York’s celebrated High School for Performing Arts on 46th Street. The musical is an inspirin story of students as they commit to 4 years of tough academic work. With humour and insight and one for all the family to enjoy. £15 adult, £13 child. www.kentontheatre.co.uk

21-22 January

11am & 2pm The Theatre of Widdershins presents these three yummy yarns which you know so well are served with unexpected spices and quirky flavours, along with Widdershins’ trademark ingredients of puppets, pop-up sets and original music.

Bon Appetit! £7. Ages 3+ www.thenorthwall.com

28 - 31 January Kenton Theatre

Magic - Abridged!

31 January

Cornerstone, Didcot

Anniversary Cushion

HAVE A WILD TIME

AT THE UK’S ONLY CROCODILE ZOO! • Crocodile encounters and handling • Birthday parties • Keeper experiences and much more!

Shoe Kangaroo and the Big Bad Boot 15 February

Cornerstone, Didcot

2pm, £8/£6/£24. Ages 4+ Did you ever lose a shoe? That tumbled into a bird that flew, over the sea to an island new, where creatures strange and mysterious grew. Garlic Theatre take you on a journey to the island of lost shoes with clowning, mime and crafted puppets. www.cornerstone-arts.org.uk

The Sooty Show 17 February

New Theatre, Oxford

11am, 2.30pm Direct from CITV, Sooty heads into town in a fabulous new show to delight the whole family.

Joining the nation’s favourite bear will be Sweep, Soo and Sooty's TV partner Richard Cadell! www.atgtickets.com/venues/newtheatre-oxford/ Please always check with the venue before attending any events listed in case details have changed since we went to press.

2pm, £8/£6/£24. Ages 5+ A funny and informative magic show with plenty of chances to join in!

Otiz guides you through magic’s chequered story with plenty of tricks up his sleeve. Genuine information punctuated by delightful nonsense; to create a unique magic show for all to enjoy. www.cornerstone-arts. org.uk

Cushion Concert 8 February

Book tickets online and plan your visit at www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk January/ February 2015

© Fotolia

For a comprehensive list of what’s on at each venue please refer to the websites.

We can only include a small number of events, space depending. Families cannot be responsible for any changes of dates or other details.

10am, 11am under 5’s, 12 noon over 5’s Rozzy and Mr Cello introduce the Harpsichord for children and their families. £5/£16 Family www.sthildas.ox.ac.uk/jdp

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Oxfordshire Magazine 15

What's on

Comedy Club 4 Kids 20 February

The Oxford Playhouse

5pm Enjoy the best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best just without the rude bits! An hour of laughter and fun for all the family. It’s just like a normal comedy club but with an audience as young as six this half term. Features CBBC’s Stu Goldsmith and others. £9/£7.

Ages 6+

Diary Dates & Half Term Fantastic Free Entrance & Garden Walks 2 - 31 January only

Waterperry Gardens, Nr Wheatley

10am-5pm Visit the Gardens for free and make a special trip even more enjoyable! With free garden walks every Wednesday with the Garden team at 11.30am. www.waterperrygardens.co.uk

Star Walk

30 January

Earth Trust, Little Wittenham, OX14 4QZ

6pm-8pm Join in with a starlit countryside walk with Dr Russell Layberry from ECI Oxford University. Don’t forget your flask of hot chocolate! £5 adult, £2 child. Booking essential.

Free family friendly fun Every Sunday throughout February

Pitt Rivers Museum & Oxford University Museum of Natural History

2pm-4pm Visit either museums for a relaxing afternoon. Try activity backpacks, sorting boxes, trails, colouring sheets, story corner and craft activities. For all ages.

Pitt Stops

First Saturday of the month

1pm - 4pm (& in school hols) Fun ways to explore the Museum and discover more about our exciting collections.

Make something super to take home. Suitable for all ages.

RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch

The New Churchill Exhibition

River & Rowing Museum, Henley on Thames

Blenheim Palace, Woodstock

25 January

10.30am-3.30pm Lots of fun wildlife-related activities to enjoy, including making animal masks, dragonflies and bird feeders. Use binoculars to spot birds in the wildlife garden!

50% discount on entry for RSPB members. Free (with admission.)

14 February

The Palace re-opens with the newly refreshed permanent Churchill exhibition taking you on the journey of his life, starting with his birth at Blenheim Palace, and the many accolades he achieved.

Brought to life with photos, extracts from his diaries, artefacts and more. www.blenheimpalace.com

Science Club Snowflake Special

Guided nature walks

Oxford Castle Quarter

Ewelme Watercress Beds

31 January

First Sunday of the month

10:30am, 12 noon & 2pm £7 per child + 1 adult. Ages 5-11.

Everyone’s different in their own way, and so are snowflakes. But how do snowflakes form and why is each one unique? Join Science Oxford Live for a winter workshop to pick your favourite frozen shapes and grow your very own snowflake to take home. www.live@scienceoxford.com

Oxon. 10.30am Take a guided walk with knowledgeable guides through nature reserve situated next to the watercress beds. No need to book.

No dogs allowed except guide dogs.

Free parking next to the playing field. Adults £3, children FREE. Refreshments available. Tel: 01491 835173.

Harry Potter Book Night

10 January - 1 March

5 February

The Story Museum, Oxford, OX1 1BP

5pm-7pm, FREE The first book night ever seen, this exciting event gives new and existing fans a chance to share the wonder of J K Rowling’s stories and to introduce the next generation of readers in to this world! Inviting schools, bookshops, libraries and other groups to host early evening events in celebration of the night.

For adults, teenagers and children. www.storymuseum.org.uk

Spring Steam Gala 13 - 15 February

Mid Hants Railway The Railway Station, Station Road, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9JG The spectacular Spring Steam Gala’s a dazzling display of steam powered magic! Giving you the opportunity to ride behind as many of the engines as possible over three days.

Adult £25, Child (aged 2-16) £13, Child under 2 FREE Family ticket £63. www.watercressline.co.uk

Feature in our what's on guide by sending your details by the 1st of the month, BEFORE the issue date of the magazine!

February 2015 16 January/ Call 01993 815 966 to advertise with us

Winter Wonder Trial University of Oxford Botanic Garden

9am-3.15pm The Garden may appear asleep, but take the trail to find early signs of spring, looking at leaf buds, blossom, bulbs and evergreens.

A nice way to get small children interested all things that grow! www.botanic-garden.ox.ac.uk

Half term activities Fabulous Fairtrade Fruits 18 February

University of Oxford Botanic Garden 11am-1pm Help decorate a giant rainforest vine with collage fruits and funky leaves. Find real tropical fruits growing in the Glasshouses. Drop in. Free with entry to garden. www.botanic-garden.ox.ac.uk

Half term activities 16 - 20 February

Oxford Castle Unlocked

In a twist to the classic guided tour, castle characters will guide visitors in tower rooms, prison cells and in the atmospheric crypt, these inhabitants will linger, waiting to greet and tell their tale. £10.25/£8.75/£6.95/Family £32.95 www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Half term activities 16 - 20 February

Pitt Rivers Museum & Oxford University Museum of Natural History

From art activities and trails, to handling tables and family talks, you'll want to try it all! Suitable for all ages. www.prm.ox.ac.uk

Half term activities Alphabet I Spy 14 - 22 February

Waterperry Gardens

Nr Wheatley 10am - 5pm Spy the whole alphabet and win a seasonal Waterperry prize and don’t miss the unusual characters hidden in the gardens for an extra surprise! £2 per child (must be accompanied by an adult paying garden entrance price £6.80). www.waterperrygardens.co.uk

Half term activities 16 - 20 February

River & Rowing Museum

Henley on Thames Various activities for little ones and families to enjoy, ranging from Tini Tiny Town, Silk Painting, Busy Bees and Fables and Fairytales!

Visit website for details. www.rrm.co.uk

Half term activities 19 February

Build Your Own Planetarium

Kennington Village Hall, Kennington Road, Oxford, OX1 5PG. Be a star and create your own planetarium that projects constellations onto the wall.

Find shooting stars and get top tips for meteor spotting. An experiment will help you find your own micrometeorites at home!

Join Sarah Bearchell of ‘Sarah’s Adventures in Science’ for a cosmic half-term workshop. £5/£16. Ages 6+, 11am, 1pm www.live@scienceoxford.com

Half term activities 14 - 22 February

Knights’ & Princesses’ Waddesdon Manor

11am-4pm It’s Knights' and Princesses' Week at the Manor, so get dressed up in your finery for a week of medieval fun! Are you brave enough to complete the Knight's Quest?

Once you've returned from your adventures, you can have a go at craft activities. Fancy dress welcome. £2 per child. Normal garden admissions apply. www.waddesdon.org.uk

Oxfordshire Magazine