Families Oxfordshire Easter 2016

Issue 72 - March/ April 2016

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Oxfordshire Education Focus Spring days out Easter Fun! Reader give-aways

THE ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE FOR FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN IN OXON FIND US ONLINE WWW.FAMILIESOXFORDSHIRE.CO.UK

Oxfordshire Magazine

One-to-One tutoring for Primary STATS, 7+ exams, 11+ exams, 13+ exams, GCSE/IGCSE, AS/A2 Levels.

Group tutoring (max 4now students) at our in Summertown and Jericho Tuition centres open in centres Summertown and Botley One-to-one In home tutoring offered in all areas of Oxford

For more information visit our website

www.lotustutors.com E: info@lotustutors.com T: 01865 703545

Places still available in Reception and Year Three - Register now Senior School Meet the Head

Wednesday 27 April 9.45am to 11.45am

Junior School Open House

Wednesday 11 May 9.30am to 11.00am 01865 318500 admissions@oxf.gdst.net www.oxfordhigh.gdst.net

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March/ April 2016

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Oxfordshire Magazine Editor: Ema Murphy 01993 815966 - 07733 228 038 editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk Next issue: May/ June 2016 Booking deadline: 1 April Copy deadline: 5 April 36,000 readers per issue Printed by Warners Cover image © Next @FamiliesOxon

/familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

BOOK NOW to be included in our May/ June issue Call 01993 815966 for more details.

Disclaimer: Families Oxfordshire Magazine is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Oxfordshire Magazine are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents.

READER GIVEAWAY Music CD by CBeebies presenter Andy Day (rrp £7.99) A mix of comedy, storytelling and multiple musical styles and features BBC presenters Katy Ashworth and Sid Sloane as well as pupils from a Bristol Primary school. Songs about footballing dinosaurs, rapping robots and ninja pigs; it’s a lot of fun for the whole family!

Simply go to familiesoxfordshire.co.uk homepage, scroll down and click on contact Editor to send in your details by 31 March.

The winner will be picked at random.

In this issue...

4

What's New?

5

Education Focus

6

How to boost literacy and numeracy

8

Feeding tips for babies

9

Skincare for kids

10

Spring Days Out

13

The great Easter Egg hunt!

14

What's on

READER GIVEAWAY The Little Book of Woodland Bird Songs (rrp £12.99) As Spring is in the air, what better time to get outdoors to introduce little ones to our some feathered friends, with the help of this wonderful interactive book!

Featuring twelve songs from some of Britain's best-loved birds who inhabit the forests and woodlands throughout the UK. Originally designed for young children, these sound books turn out to be popular with the whole family. As well as describing their habitat, feeding habits and physical appearance, there is also a little known fact about each bird - did you know that pheasants occasionally launch territorial attacks on people, animals and even cars? The sound bar enables you to identify each different bird by its song!

Simply tell us how many birds are featured in the book! Go to familiesoxfordshire.co.uk homepage, scroll down and click on contact Editor to send in your answer by 30 April. The lucky winner will be picked at random.

Oxfordshire Magazine

3

Local news

What's new?

Half of parents in the dark about sugar

As the ‘war on sugar’ debate rages on and the WHO calls for a sugar tax, a recent survey of 1,000 British parents reveals that families are more confused than ever when it comes to the facts. The report by makers of natural fruit bar Fruit Heroes, revealed that although 51% of British parents say they actively look for ‘no added sugar’ in products, they struggle to identify the different sugars found in food.

50% polled revealing that they don’t know how much sugar is too much to feed their child. If you'd like more facts on sugar visit: www.wsro.org/AboutSugar/FactsaboutSugar.aspx.

Fantastic half term childcare

Let Super Camps take care of the children this May half term, with camps that deliver a great experience for children, allowing them to have fun and to be active in a safe and supportive way. As Ofsted noted in 2015 that: “Super Camps runs an excellent programme of wellplanned, fun and exciting activities that highly contributes to the children’s play and learning environment". For your nearest Super Camp visit www.supercamps.co.uk.

Fairytale Farm reopens

Oxfordshire’s Fairytale Farm is one of the UK's first visitor attractions to put children with learning and physical disabilities first, which can also be enjoyed by children without disabilities. The Farm is divided into special zones featuring adventure play, sensory and a stable of animals to add to the experience. There's also a relaxing cafe to enjoy! Fairytale Farm's located just off the A44 in Southcombe, near Chipping Norton.

For more details visit: fairytalefarm.co.uk.

National storytelling week at local pre-school

Lucky youngsters from Southmoor Pre-School in Abingdon were treated to a morning of professional storytelling, to celebrate National Storytelling Week this month. As part of David Wilson Homes’ ongoing educational programme, pupils at the ‘Outstanding’ rated pre-school were entertained by professional storyteller Peter Optical. National Storytelling Week has been running for the last 16 years and aims to bring the magic of storytelling to life at schools, clubs, museums and other venues across the UK. To find out more visit www.sfs.org.uk. Pictured: Peter Optical with Pre-School children.

Theatre experience aids academic work

Children from Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools in Oxford have been able to take classroom theory and put it on stage. In a performance of ‘Secrets of the Electric Cafe’, performed at the Theatre at Headington, students enacted a scene set in World War 2. The piece included music from the era and gave the children a brief insight into what life was like for children during the blitz in heavily shelled London. Many of the children are also studying the evacuation of London as part of their key stage 1 studies. Stagecoach in Oxford prides itself on pushing boundaries for children’s theatre. For more detail please contact the principal, Maya Sprigg at Stagecoach Theatre Arts Oxford at oxford@ stagecoach.co.uk or call 01869 278600.

Pictured Olivia Laister

Win a fun family day out at Abington Air and Country Show The Abingdon Air and Country Show on Sunday 1st May, held in support of the Thames Valley Air Ambulance, has something for everyone – a full afternoon air display, static aircraft, falconry, countryside demonstrations, vintage vehicles including ex-military, steam engines, re-enactment groups, music, dance, children’s amusements, tank rides, craft and trade stalls and much more!

We have a family ticket worth £32 to give away to one lucky reader. For more information including discounted ticket prices visit www.abingdonairandcountry.co.uk To be in with a chance of winning the family ticket please tell us the name of the charity supported by the show.

Email your answer to editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk.

Easter Camps At Peppard Tennis Club

for boys and girls 18 months - 7 years

l l l l l l l l

Book now Three weeks of tennis camps to secure Weekdays 9.30am - 12pm your child’s Suitable for children aged 4+ space Small groups to ensure quality learning Book single mornings or whole weeks LTA Qualified Coaches Structured for learning but also a lot of fun!

Term time coaching sessions available

To book: call 01491 728081 email info@teachmetennis.co.uk or visit www.teachmetennis.co.uk 4

March/ April 2016

Children’s ballet, tap freestyle dance classes held at the Recreation Hall in Long Hanborough,Witney

Classes being run on:

Saturdays Lord Williams Lower School Thame OX9 3NW For class times visit

07824 313526 ruthnuttall29@hotmail.com Ruth Nuttall School of Dance First two lessons are free

midbucks.kiddikicks.co.uk /timetable

01296 290204

Call Email midbucks@kiddikicks.co.uk

free trial sessions – get in touch for details

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Education focus

Education Focus

Inspiring tuition plus free trial session!

Explore Learning provides maths and English tuition for 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities. The centres are open 7 days a week, meaning Explore can fit into busy family life. As members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum in England and the Curriculum for Excellence in Scotland.

Find out how your child can benefit from Explore Learning membership today. Book your free trial at www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Inspection success at Our Lady’s Abingdon The recent inspection at OLA’s Junior and Senior Schools has proved a huge success. As pupils were described as ‘self-aware, reflective, well-grounded and as showing responsibilities to one another and to their community. They were also hilighted as articulate and willing contributors in lessons’, which reflects OLA’s nurturing ethos and commitment, to developing habits of independent learning. Links with parents were also described as ‘excellent’.

Mr Stephen Oliver, OLA’s Principal, said: ‘We are absolutely delighted to receive such an excellent report. The very positive judgements contained in it are a credit to the school’s dedicated teachers. I am pleased that our outstanding pastoral care and the academic progress being made by our pupils have been recognised in this way. www.olab.org.uk.

School reports can be found at www.abingdon.org.uk/inspection

‘Excellent’ rating for Cranford School With 85 years of experience, an ‘Excellent’ inspection rating and 2nd place nationally in the Times Parent Power tables under their belt, there’s never been a better time to join Cranford House. The Junior School will become fully co-educational this September, (admitting boys and girls from the ages of 3-11) offering a Cranford education to even more children. Rated ‘Outstanding’ in every category at the most recent inspection, Cranford believes that it provides some of the best preschool experiences around. Parents are invited to visit during an Open Week from 7-11 March, 9.30am-3.00pm. Either book a tour or simply drop by. www.cranfordhouse.net.

!

Copies of the full reports can be found on the school website www.abingdon.org.uk/inspection.

Headteacher Felicity Lusk, said, ‘To gain such a tremendous endorsement is worthy praise indeed for the excellent standards of teaching, learning and care that are all part of the education that Abingdon and Abingdon Prep provide.’

er ow m n m es Su lac ok p p Bo ho ks or

Oxford High Junior School is pleased to have a new Head. Mrs Kate Gater joined OHS Junior School from Edgbaston High School for Girls, also an all-through girls’ school. She’s enjoying settling into life at both the Bardwell Road and Woodstock Road sites and meeting the girls and parents. Kate has found her first few weeks in Oxford busy and exciting, describing girls at Oxford High Junior School as enthusiastic and inquisitive in a wonderfully vibrant setting. Meet Kate at the next Meet the Head sessions on 2 March or 27 April, 9.45am-11.45am and Junior School Open House day is on 11 May and 8 June, 9.30am- 11.00am. Sixth Form Open Morning takes place on 17 March at 9.30am-11.45am. www. oxfordhigh.gdst.net/visit-us

Abingdon School and Abingdon Prep School has received a ringing endorsement from the Independent Schools Inspectorate, ISI. The findings praise all aspects of the education in all areas from academic standards and extra-curricular activities to pastoral care. Abingdon Prep School was also awarded an ‘exceptional’ rating for the “quality of pupils’ achievements and learning.” The Inspectors reported that, “The excellent quality of teaching fulfils the aim of the school to provide a first-class education and is successful in promoting pupils’ excellent achievements.”

w

New Junior School Head at Oxford High School

An excellent dducation from start to finish

TIME TO ENTER A NEW WORLD Acting, singing and dance classes for 4 to 18 year olds.

Find out more and start your child’s journey today OXFORD 01869 278600 Maya Sprigg oxford@stagecoach.co.uk

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

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

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

Oxford, Abingdon and Thame E: oxford@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01865 408037

New classes opening soon in your local area!

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

Oxfordshire Magazine

5

Education How to boost your child’s literacy and numeracy

By Liat Hughes Joshi

Literacy and numeracy are central to your child’s learning in primary school and will underpin many of the subjects they’ll cover during their secondary education. They are of course crucial to later life too.

Whether they’re already acing their algebra or still struggling with basic sums, here are some ideas on how to give these key skills a boost.

A little extra learning at home can work wonders…but don’t go overboard!

Realistically, it isn’t always possible for teaching staff in busy classrooms of 30 pupils to provide the oneon-one attention children benefit from – perhaps looking at improving handwriting or listening to reading daily. By sitting with your child and working on specific areas, you can make a huge difference to their attainment. Keep it sensible though – even just ten or fifteen minutes a day for Key Stage 1 children can have an impact, yet still leaves hours and hours for Lego building, climbing trees or playing with friends.

Find out about the methods their school uses to ensure consistency If you want to do some work at home, it will help your son or daughter greatly if the methods you use are consistent with those they’re being taught at school – otherwise you can do more harm than good by confusing them.

Reading and aspects of numeracy are both typically taught quite differently to when most of us were children, so do attend any curriculum 6

March/ April 2016

information evenings the school holds, or ask their teacher for more information about methods.

Employ tech to your advantage There are some brilliant educational apps and websites out there with masses of kid appeal. Try to find ones which align with the National Curriculum (or at least use British English to avoid conflict with what’s done at school).

Many of the best apps have an inbuilt system of rewards and some even provide parents with progress reports.

[Link: https://www.familiesonline. co.uk/locations/national/educationchildcare/education-and-schools/ eight-of-the-best-educational-appsfor-primary-school-children]

Encourage reading Reading opens the door to almost endless learning and enjoyment.

Some children are naturally enthused by books, others need more nudging to get the reading bug. Firstly, encourage any reading at all – be it comics, magazines, the back of the cereal packet – without worrying much about what they are reading.

Also try and home in on your child’s interests and give them books that work with these – reluctant readers might gain confidence with non-fiction relating to their hobbies, or a footballmad child might enjoy some sporty

tales and then decide fiction is for them.

Bedtime stories are a crucial opportunity to snuggle up discussing books together. They’re still beneficial even once children can read independently - parents of older kids could take on a more challenging classic together, taking it in turns to read a page before talking about what’s going on.

Incorporate ‘stealth learning’ into everyday activities Sneak some maths and literacy into their day-to-day life and you can improve their skills without it feeling like schoolwork. Adding up the cost of the shopping, dividing the bill in a restaurant, playing Monopoly or snakes and ladders, budgeting for that much-longed for Christmas present or helping with cooking are all brilliant but subtle numeracy activities. For literacy, writing shopping lists, sending a postcard or email to the grandparents, or finding a pen pal might all help.

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including 'New Oldfashioned Parenting' and '‎How to Unplug Your Child' (both published

by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

ABINGDON PREP SCHOOL

Excellence In Independent Education One of the UK’s leading Independent Schools 2nd nationally - The Times Parent Power League Tables - small schools Excellent in all categories : ISI 2014 Limited places available for 2016 For more information please contact our Registrar on 01491 651 218 or admissions@cranfordhouse.net.

“Exceptional

- pupils’ achievement, both inside and outside the classroom. ISI Inspection

”

OPEN MORNING Thursday 5 May Cranford House School, Moulsford, Oxfordshire, OX10 9HT

abingdon.org.uk/prep

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Oxfordshire Magazine

7

Parenting 10 Feeding Tips for Combined Bottle and Breast Feeding

By Vicki Scott, Midwife and Parenting Expert

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If you have problems with low milk supply, or have twins then it can be difficult to meet your baby’s demands. Seek help from a breastfeeding advisor to help get your milk supply up, but as an alternative supplementing your baby’s breastfeeds may be necessary. Using some formula milk does not mean the end of breastfeeding, it is quite possible to do both and continue to give baby the benefits of your milk.

In the early months it is a good idea, and sometimes necessary, to express milk at the same time you are giving your baby a bottle. This is to prevent engorgement and to protect your milk supply.

Having all of your feeding equipment ready in advance makes things much easier. Breast pumps, milk storage containers and bottles can all be sterilized in advance, assembled and ready to go for up to 24 hours before being sterilized again for the next use.

4

It is important to correctly sterilize all your baby’s milk feeding equipment to reduce the risk of milk bacteria related tummy bugs or gastroenteritis. Before each use wash all pieces separately using a separate brush, rinse in clean water and sterilize. Steam sterilization is easy and efficient.

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Your breastmilk can be frozen, which makes having a supply of milk ready to use much easier. Express straight into a breastmilk storage container and once the milk has cooled it can then be frozen and stored for up to 3 months in your home freezer.

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Always keep breastmilk chilled until your baby is ready to feed, then warm it to body temperature by using a bottle warmer or standing the container in warm water. Take a small flask of warm water if you are out & about and carry milk in a ThermaBag to keep it cool.

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Be sure to use the correct teat size for your baby’s needs.

If the teat is too slow your baby may become bored or frustrated during his feeds. A teat which is too fast may mean your baby struggles to keep up with the flow of milk, taking in a lot of air as he gulps. The flow should be steady and your baby relaxed during the feed.

8 9

If your baby is having a bottle feed then it is a lovely opportunity for dad, or another family member to be involved.

Of course bonding happens in many ways but feeding is a very nurturing and special way to interact with baby.

When bottle feeding, hold your baby close in a more upright position than you might for a breastfeed. Hold the bottle at an angle which keeps the teat full of milk, and your baby’s head in a slightly backward tilt so that he can feed comfortably. He will be looking at you intently as you feed him so enjoy this special nurturing time.

taking a bottle some babies are good at knowing when 10 When they need to burp and will push the bottle away with their tongue, or with their hands if they are older! Other babies keep drinking and then are sick so you may need to stop your baby at times during the feed to sit up for a burp.

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Complementary therapy for children

By Sally J. Hall Many of us try various complementary therapies to help with aches and pains or a medical condition but they can be just as effective for children, too. Which are best for your little ones?

Cranial osteopathy

Osteopaths believe that because babies are put into such stressful positions during labour and birth, there has been a lot of pressure on the head. They claim that this can be healed with osteopathy. It can, they say, help with feeding problems, colic, reflux and plagiocephaly, or flat head syndrome. Never attempt this yourself and only ever use a qualified osteopath.

Aromatherapy

Though you should be careful about using certain essential oils, as they can be very powerful, you can use aromatherapy with your baby or child (use just 5 drops of essential oil to 30ml carrier oil). Chamomile in the bath (2-3 drops) helps promote sleep, lavender calms and cleanses and eucalyptus can help with a stuffed-up nose. Roman chamomile can help stop the itching of chicken pox with a couple of drops in the bath and dill is used for digestive problems. Read a good book about this first or consult an aromatherapist.

Reflexology

Especially good for babies and toddlers but just as good with older children, reflexology uses gentle pressure on the foot using your thumbs and fingers. It has been shown to calm babies and help them sleep. Contact the Association of Aromatherapists to find a practitioner near you (aor.org.uk).

Massage

This can be done at home though it’s worth going to a few classes first to learn the techniques. It’s a great way to bond with your baby or child and can help with trapped wind, sleep and other problems such as anxiety. It has been shown to be calming and reassuring for children with special needs, too.

Please ensure that all essentials oils and carrier oils are kept out of the reach of children.

Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Skincare for kids We’ve triaged them, so you don’t have to Some common skin problems parents encounter

By Radhika Holmstrom

Treat at home Dry skin Apply unperfumed, gentle moisturiser and use wash products specifically designed for kids – the more natural, the better.

Most of the lotions and creams you’ll find are based on petroleum jelly but if you’d prefer a more natural option, there are lots of gentle oil-based products available. Just remember that essential oils can also irritate. Plain coconut oil works well.

Avoid: olive oil, especially for babies. It’s not great for the skin barrier (so might lead to a nastier skin condition).

Try: oats in the bath (put them in a knotted popsock to keep them from turning it into porridge) for a cut-price skin soother.

Keep an eye on Eczema Start by using lots – and we mean lots – of gentle, un-fragranced moisturiser (see if you can get this on prescription).

But if you spot cracking or other signs

of infection, get to the doctor, as a topical steroid cream may be needed on prescription.

Avoid: using over-the-counter aqueous cream as a moisturiser, as it can irritate.

It’s designed for the bath.

Try: a quick body-search. If your child has five palm’s worth of eczema, it’s likely to be more than just a ‘mild’ case.

Warts and verrucas When treating them, make sure the product you buy is suitable for children – check with the pharmacist. These usually look nastier than they are but if they become bothersome or change in some way, see the GP. Try: putting a little piece of duct tape over the wart/verruca. Every six days, remove and soak the wart, and scrub off dead skin with an emery board. It may do the job naturally…

Avoid: putting wart treatments which contain salicylic acid on a child’s face.

Take to the doctor Impetigo These itchy sores aren’t too serious but they’re unpleasant and highly contagious, so get to the GP for antibiotic creams or

Are we there yet? in with things they spot along the way and reward good behavior.

If your children know where you’re going and what they’ll find when you get there, they can be more enthusiastic about the journey. Make them a booklet they can fill

For more advice and tips on dealing with skin problems in children, visit the NHS website and search for skin problems in babies www.nhs.uk/conditions/skin-rash-babies Radhika Holmstrom has a strong background in health journalism. She has also written for many consumer and specialist magazines. Whilst she focuses on health, parenting and learning issues, she has also written widely on environmental and ethical issues. She is a visiting lecturer at Middlesex University, lecturing to undergraduates and postgraduates on feature-writing.

Make sure you have directions to ensure a smooth journey in the form of Satnav or from the AA (aa.com).

Other essential tips •

Travel when they would usually be sleeping

Pack snacks to nibble; rice cakes, crackers, crisps and mini sandwiches are ideal. However, let the front passenger control these so they don’t eat them all at once. Save sweet treats until last and make sure all drinks are in spill-proof cups.

•

Take loo breaks and a portable potty

•

Take exercise breaks to allow them to let off steam

•

Take a change of clothing

Play Games

•

If your child gets car sick, pack plastic bags

•

Take colouring books and pens, sticker books and games

•

Take pillows and blankets

•

Have a mini first aid kit

•

Allow more time than you need

Pack Snacks

Create a magical destination

Psoriasis This isn’t always serious – it’s the result of a build-up of skin cells – but it can be and of course the flaky patches can be quite upsetting to live with too. The recommendation is that you see the GP, who should be able to offer treatments from creams to UV light therapy.

Know where you’re going

Our top tips on how to survive long car journeys with the kids

By Sally J. Hall

Travelling long distances with kids can be tricky. They get bored, they need entertaining, they argue and they think even a short journey is the longest ever! Here are some ways to get there without going grey in the process.

tablets, which will clear them up quickly.

Play the spotting game where your little ones look out for certain animals and coloured cars. It’s great fun!

Play Music or Films

Whilst you might restrict tablet use at home, this is when they are worth every penny. Allow each child to pick their favourite film - and pack headphones!

Oxfordshire Magazine

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Spring Days Out Family-friendly fun your children will love!

Creative activities at Cornerstone in Didcot

From a Cinderella puppet show to fancy dress sessions, there’s a jam-packed programme of theatre and fun at Didcot’s Cornerstone centre this March and April.

Kicking it off is Orion and the Dark (March 6, 2pm), a heartwarming tale of friendship and courage. Or sing-a-long with the magical musical Cinderella Queen the Recycling Queen (March 20, 2pm) and watch little ones become transfixed by The Curious Adventures of Pinocchio (March 31, 2pm) or Leaper: A Fish Tale (April 3, 2pm). Book worms will love seeing classic The Owl who was Afraid of the Dark come alive on stage (April 16, 11am and 2pm).

And Cornerstone’s regular Top Fun Sundays will, as ever, see a variety of fantastic family theatre and pre-show activities in the café - from fancy dress, arts and craft, and the chance to meet the actors.

With a kids’ corner full of books and toys, a fully stocked café, spacious buggy-park and an endless supply of booster seats, Cornerstone is the place to be this Spring!

For more information about events or to speak to the Box Office call 01235 515144 or visit www.cornerstone-arts.org.

Day Out With Thomas at The Watercress Line

Thomas & Friends return to the Watercress Line for more family fun during the Easter Break 25 March-3 April! Shake hands with the Fat Controller, meet Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, take part in Thomas themed activities and ride the big steams trains all day! FREE Thomas sticker and certificate for every child! FREE activities, bouncy slide, tea cup ride, children’ entertainer and Thomas tattoos! FREE rides with Thomas, Toad and Diesel! It’s a great value family day out, not to be missed!

Make their day a Day Out With Thomas and book your tickets online at www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk/midhants to get your free gift or simply pay on the day. Entry is by travel ticket only, which includes all day travel on the trains and all FREE entertainment.

A wild learning experience at Crocodiles of the World

If you’re looking for somewhere different to take the family, or perhaps you’re a teacher looking to inspire your class – look no further than Crocodiles of the World in Brize Norton. You’ll soon discover just why we’ve dedicated a whole zoo to these amazing animals. Crocodiles can teach us so much about the world - they have been around for a very long time after all!

Here at the zoo we offer a unique opportunity to see, touch and learn about crocodiles in a fun, safe and stimulating environment. For school visits our education team can tailor your visit to cover curriculum topics, suitable for all ages and group sizes. We provide ‘zoo outreach’ too, which means that we can bring our crocs to your school or corporate event.

To find out more email education@crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk or visit www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk Crocodiles of the World is open daily, 10am-5pm

Visit Blenheim Palace this Easter for an eggstravaganza of activities in the Pleasure Gardens!

On Sunday 27th and Monday 28th March, children’s characters The Gruffalo and Tree Fu Tom will be entertaining visitors in the Pleasure Gardens. The Gruffalo will be appearing during meet and greet sessions at intervals on each day and children will be able to see Tree Fu Tom in his mini show and learn Tree Fu Magic, with the opportunity to meet him too. The Easter Bunny and stilt walkers join the already exciting programme of entertainment to delight the whole family over the weekend. Other activities include a Giant Easter Egg Hunt, vintage funfair, Punch & Judy shows, face painting and more! Existing fun family attractions at The Pleasure Gardens include the giant Marlborough Hedge Maze, Butterfly House and Adventure Playground.

Find out more at www.blenheimpalace.com.

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www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Easter Fun! The Great Easter Egg Hunt Keep up this fun tradition with your children this Easter

By Sally J. Hall Easter means different things to different people. But for the kids it is quite simple; it means time off school and plenty of Easter eggs! So why not organise an Easter Egg Hunt with your children and their friends?

Here’s how to make this year’s Easter’s egg hunt one that will be talked about for years to come.

Don't forget!

Easter Sunday is March 27

What is an Easter Egg Hunt?

The day before Easter Sunday, the grown-ups hide eggs and other treats around the house. Then the kids have to find them on Easter morning. For many parents, the planning is almost as much fun as watching the kids finding the eggs and you can make it as simple or as complex as you like.

First, the shopping list • • • •

Buy a few eggs per child. Look for packs that are cheaper than individual eggs.

Find holders for the children to collect the eggs in such as paper bags, baskets plastic bowls or flower pots.

Perhaps buy some small gifts as well as eggs - books or colouring pens.

Make a list of where you have hidden all the eggs.

Make it better

Make it more fun with activities along the way. Tell an Easter themed story, or play some games.

Give us a clue

Add an extra dimension with clues. You could also make a treasure map for them to follow. Think of a theme; numbered pictures of bunnies, pirates looking for buried treasure, fairies looking for magic eggs.

A number of local attractions including National Trust and English Heritage properties have Easter Egg Hunts and activities, so check out those local to you. Try Blenheim Palace or any of our Museum’s such as Pitt Rivers and OUMH.

Easter Crafts Easter Egg Bunny

Some nice ideas to do the day before, especially if it’s raining

1.

Take a freshly cooked and cooled hard-boiled egg.

2.

Cut shapes for the bunny’s feet and hands out of the yellow felt; then cut larger ears shapes out of yellow felt and smaller ones from the white.

3.

Stick the feet on the base of the egg, making sure the egg can stand upright on them.

4.

Stick the white ears onto the yellow and when they have dried a little, stick them on to the rear of where the face will be.

5.

Finally, draw a rabbit’s face on the front of the egg with the pens and decorate with patterns as your child likes.

1.

Get the kids to paint sheets of paper plain grey or plain pink

2.

Help your children (using childsafe scissors) to cut out larger grey ears shapes and smaller pink ear shapes from the painted paper.

3.

Be sure to leave a longer bit of paper at the bottom of the grey shapes

4.

Stick the pink inners on the grey ears

5.

Next, attach the shapes to the Alice band with the glue and leave to dry.

Get the children to decorate the holders they will collect the eggs in.

Decorate paper bags, line baskets with straw and tie on a ribbon and add a label with the child’s name on it to the pots.

Where can you do an Easter Egg hunt?

At home, inside the house. Great if the weather’s bad. Lock rooms that you don’t want the children in.

In the garden. If it’s fine, this is ideal. Put the eggs out in the morning.

Why not make bunny footprints from flour or talc near each hidden egg?

In the woods. If you live near some open space, gather the kids in one area until the adults have planted the eggs and clues. Then let them loose!

Some ground rules

So that the children all feel they have been treated fairly and for safety, it’s important to have some rules.

• • • • • •

When they have collected three eggs, they must come back to ‘base’ before going off again.

Give the kids clear boundaries that they must not stray outside. If you’re outdoors, place small kids with grown-ups or older children for safety.

Help kids get a fair share by collecting different colour eggs each –wrap them in coloured paper. Make those for the small kids easier to spot.

Get older children to help younger ones.

Don’t allow the kids to eat the eggs as they find them – they have to bring them all back to base.

Once the game is over, allow them to eat one or two and then the rest should be taken home.

You’ll need: ü ü ü ü

1 hard-boiled egg Yellow and white felt PVA glue Felt tips pens in yellow, orange and black

Bunny Ears

You’ll need: ü White cardboard ü Grey and pink paint ü Scissors ü PVA glue ü An Alice band

Oxfordshire Magazine

11

Merryl has found a career she loves.

You can too at oacp.org.uk/workincare

“I honestly don’t know what I’d do without Merryl.”

With almost a decade of experience, carer Merryl Rautenbach, is greatly appreciated by those she cares for.

Merryl was a nurse. But that’s not what makes her a good carer.

“She takes an interest in me, looks out for my health, and we have a laugh. What more could you want?”

It’s not about qualifications – you get all the training you need when you join the team. It’s about being

“It is always rewarding.”

• • • •

tough but kind patient caring, and respectful.

More than a job.

“She is so lovely and friendly. We have a special bond.” – Hilary Davies, 84, an Oxfordshire resident Merryl cares for.

12

March/ April 2016

“I love my job,” says Merryl, “I enjoy being with people, interacting, and seeing I can make a difference. I like promoting people’s independence.”

People across Oxfordshire need carers like Merryl in places like Witney, Chipping Norton, Banbury, Bloxham, Thame, Ickford, Oxford.

If you have the right mix of values and want a rewarding career in care. You can find a role near you at oacp.org.uk/workincare

Oxfordshire Association of Care Providers

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

In partnership with

Home of Thomas & FriendsTM toys

Join us for an Easter Eggstravaganza 25th - 28th March • • • •

• Bouncy Castle Appearances by the Easter Bunny • Punch & Judy Shows Easter Egg Hunt • Butterfly House Victorian Funfair • Giant Hedge Maze Face Painting PLUS Some of your favourite characters will be appearing at intervals on the 27th & 28th March

Join Thomas & FriendsTM at a heritage Railway near you.

Experience a ride on a real steam engine and take part in Thomas-themed activities.

MID HANTS RAILWAY ‘WATERCRESS LINE’ Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9JG

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK EASTER TICKETS visit www.blenheimpalace.com

www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk Day Out With Thomas Thomas the Tank Engine . Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2016 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. © 2016 HIT Entertainment Limited.

TM

TM

Times and prices of activities vary. Please review the relevant details before visiting.

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Days out with Thomas at the Watercress Line

What's on

ite for visit our webs Don’t’ forget to 16 20 in more what’s on rdshire.co.uk familiesoxfo

DAIRY DATES 1 Mar-15 May Andy Warhol: Works from the Hall Collection Ashmolean Museum Beaumont Street, OX1 2PH ashmolean.org This spring exhibition presents an important private collection of works

by Andy Warhol. 10am to 5pm.

1 Mar-30 Jun Family friendly fun Wallingford Museum 52 High Street, OX10 0DB wallingfordmuseum.org.uk Find out why William the Conqueror went to Wallingford in 1066, see '300 Years of Cartoons!' Fun things for children. Allow 1.5 hours for your visit. Children FREE and must be accompanied by an adult. £5.

1 Mar-30 Apr 50 years of Modern Art Oxford Modern Art Oxford 30 Pembroke Street, OX1 1BP modernartoxford.org.uk celebrating the history of performance at Modern Art Oxford, working with artists across art forms.

4 Mar (Fridays) ABC...Story!

The Story Museum 42 Pembroke Street, OX1 1BP storymuseum.org.uk/ 10.30am Each session includes a welcome, a story, a stay-and-play time and an activity for ages 0-3.

5 Mar Big Knights on Tour The Beacon Portway, Wantage, OX12 9BX beaconwantage.co.uk/cinema Experience the adventures of Sir Boris (the finest swordsman in the World), Sir Morris (not the finest swordsman in the World, but the most enthusiastic) and their noble pets, Sir Horace the Dog and Sir Doris the Hamster. From the makers of Peppa Pig, this animation is hilarious, raucous and chivalrous!

11am.

6 Mar/3 Apr Guided nature walks Ewelme Watercress Beds Nature Reserve, OX10 6HQ ewelmewatercressbeds.org Take a guided walk with through

14 March/ April 2016

nature reserve situated next to the watercress beds. No dogs allowed except guide dogs. Free parking and refreshments.2pm-5pm. Adults £3, children free.

6 Mar Oriona and the Dark Cornerstone, 25 Station Road, Didcot, OX11 7NE cornerstone-arts.org Orion is scared of more or less everything, poor lion. He’s terrified of wasps and monsters, afraid of storms.Panicked by spiders and fearful of heights, there is one thing which scares him more than anything else – the DARK. Ages 3+ 2pm. £8.50/£6.50 7/14/21 Mar Hey Diddle Diddle Oxford Playhouse 11 Beaumont Street, OX1 2LW oxfordplayhouse.com Friendly, sing-along sessions perfect for a fun and musicial way to start the week for you and your child!

Held in the Top Room. For ages 5 and under. 10.15-11am, 11.3012.15pm 8-12 Mar Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat New Theatre Oxford, OX1 2AG/ atgtickets.com Bill Kenwright’s “Amazing”, “Superb”, “Wonderful” and “Brilliant” production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling family musical.

8-12 Mar Sense and Sensibility Oxford Playhouse 11 Beaumont Street, OX1 2LW oxfordplayhouse.com The novel has been adapted

by Jessica Swale, writer of the acclaimed Nell Gwyn– currently making its transfer to the West End with Gemma Arterton – and the successful Blue Stockings. Oxford Theatre Guild perfectly captures the spirit of this memorable and heartwarming classic. / £11-£18 12-13 & 19-20 Mar Lambing Weekend Earth Trust Little Wittenham, OX14 4QZ earthtrust.org.uk/events The Earth Trust annual Lambing Weekends are back, but this year there’s be even more to see and do on the farm! As well as the ewes and their lambs, there’ll be pigs, piglets, goats and more, plus bale climbing and craft activities. 11am-4pm / £6

adult, £3 child, £15 family, free for ET Friends.

12 Mar Snoop and Charlie Brown: The Peanuts Movie (cert. U) Theatre Chipping Norton 2 Sprint Street, OX7 5NL chippingnortontheatre.com Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the beloved "Peanuts" gang make their bigscreen debut. 88mins. 10.30am. £5 18 Mar Austen’s Women The Old Fire Station Oxford, OX1 2AQ oldfirestation.org.uk Jane Austen created some of literature's most celebrated characters, defining her era, sex and class. Two hundred years on, her works continue to speak for the yearning heart as much as they did when they were written – so just how much has really changed for women since? 7.30pm / £13, £11

Until 19 Mar King Lear by Creation Theatre At Blackwell’s Bookshop Broad Street, OX1 3BQ creationtheatre.co.uk Follow Shakespeare's aging king and his three daughters in a tale of power, madness and betrayal as he divides his kingdom amongst them.

At the Norrington Room. 7.30pm.

20 Mar Cinderella Green the Recycling Queen Cornerstone Arts 25 Station Road, Didcot, OX11 7NE cornerstone-arts.org Cinderella Green works really hard for her two, not so environmentally minded step sisters, Mopella and J-Cloth, when all she really wants to do is spend time with her beloved wildlife. She needs more time! So Lou Brush the fairy godmother uses her recycling magic to help. Cinders wages war on her sisters’ waste, shines at the Prince’s Royal Garden Party and campaigns to clean up the kingdom. 2pm / £8.50, £6.50 22-26 Mar Good Night Mr Tom New Theatre George Street, OX1 2AG atgtickets.com Goodnight Mister Tom follows young William Beech, who is evacuated to the English countryside and forges a remarkable friendship with the elderly recluse. All is perfect until William is summoned by his mother

back to London.

23 Mar-3 Apr Bed Time Oxford Playhouse 11 Beaumont Street, OX1 2LW oxfordplayhouse.com Oxford Playhouse presents Bed Time – a new show for children aged two to six. With songs, stories, lots of silliness and maybe even a pillow fight, put your PJs on and come join us just before it’s time to switch off the light and say goodnight. Ages 2-6 11am, 2pm, 4pm £8.50 / £6.50 25-28 Mar Easter Eggstravaganza Blenheim Palace Woodstock, OX20 1PP blenheimpalace.com Giant Easter Egg Hunt, vintage fun fair and lots of other family activities, including appearances for children's characters, Punch and Judy shows, face painting and more!

Existing fun family activities at The Pleasure Gardens include the giant Marlborough Hedge Maze, Butterfly House and Adventure Playground.

25 Mar-10 Apr Eggstraordinary Easter Eggventure Pitt Rivers Museum Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PW prm.ox.ac.uk Eggstraordinary Easter Eggventure is a joint trail with Pitt Rivers Museum and OUHM and takes place at both venues. Eggsplore the Museums with an eggciting egg-hunters trail. Please check the museum websites for more information. During opening hours.

25-28 Mar Easter activities Cogges Manor Farm Witney, OX28 3LA cogges.org.uk Easter egg hunts, chicks and crafts.

Nick Cope will be singing in the barn on Good Friday. Cogges new season starts on 19 and 20 March and brings plenty of reasons to put on your wellies, feed the animals, including our new piglets, and go exploring. £6 / £4.50 / £18 27 Mar Easter Fun on the Farm Earth Trust Get set for some egg-citing family fun this Easter Sunday! Eggs-plore the Earth Trust farm and meet some of the animals, plus bring your own egg (hard boiled!) to decorate and roll down the Clumps. 11am-3pm, £5 adult, £2 child, £12 family.

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

What's on 27-28 Mar The Gruffalo and Tree Fu Tom Blenheim Palace Over Easter weekend, Blenheim will be joined by children’s much loved characters! The Gruffalo will be appearing during meet and greet sessions at intervals on each day.

Park and Gardens ticket valid for this event, free Annual Pass holders.

29 Mar Science & Story: Easter Chocolate Lab The Story Museum 42 Pembroke Street, OX1 1BP storymuseum.org.uk Investigate the science of stories in the laboratory. 10am-4pm. £37.

30 Mar NCT Easter Egg Hunt Abingdon NCT Trust Abbey Gardens, OX14 3JE nct.org.uk/branches/abingdon Follow a trail of colourful clues around the beautiful Abbey Gardens to discover the Easter Bunny.

Wellies and waterproofs advisable £2 per child.

30 Mar Sword in the Stone The Beacon Portway, Wantage, OX12 9BX beaconwantage.co.uk/ 3pm Talegate Theatre presents Sword in the Stone, a magical Easter pantomime! If you enjoyed our Christmas Panto "Jack and the Beanstalk" then you will love this Easter panto by the same company. Abracadabra! Experience a magical adventure as a young squire stumbles upon an unusual friend: a memorable and beloved old sorcerer named Merlin. £8.50 / £32 31 Mar The Curious Adventures of Pinocchio Cornerstone 25 Station Road, Didcot, OX11 7NE cornerstone-arts.org Lyngo Theatre are superb, creating a magical wonderland for little ones to become transfixed by. Here Lyngo turns its hand to this classic and well-loved tale. Performed by writer director Patrick Lynch, this show has a beautiful set, with lovely puppet characters and delightful specially created music.

31 Mar Little Howard's Big Show for Kids Pegasus Magdalen Road, Oxford, OX4 1DY

Sculpture workshops 8 plus, holidays, weekends

Call 01865 391502, OX13 www.BeatriceHoffman.co.uk/ workshops

pegasustheatre.org.uk/ 2pm/4pm.

Little Howard is the world’s only live interactive animation. He’s won so many awards and fantastic reviews and he’s only just celebrated his 6th birthday (for the tenth year in a row)!

He’s also a published author and has done lots of television.

31 Mar Sling Adventure Earth Trust Take your baby for a ramble around the Earth Trust nature reserve. A great opportunity for you both to get our in the fresh air and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the countryside with other local parents.

No need to book. 10am-11.30am. £4 suggested donation per child, accompanying adult(s) free.

1 Apr Forest Schools for Under 5's Earth Trust Play and discovery in the woodlands. Forest School offers hands on learning experiences in a natural environment. 10am-12pm.

2-10 Apr Oxford Literary Festival Oxfordliteraryfestival.org For the festival’s 20th anniversary an extra special children’s programme has been designed to excite and inspire young audiences.

2 Apr History walks around Wallingford Wallingford Museum 52 High Street, OX10 0DB wallingfordmuseum.org.uk Join one of the popular history walks Walk around the Castle earthworks in the morning at 11am, followed by a Town history walk in the afternoon at 2.30pm.£6 per walk.

4-6 Apr Hive Alive!

OUHM Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PW Find out why bees are the best, add to our giant hive and make a bee creation of your very own. 1-4pm 8 Apr Family Bushcraft Earth Trust Explore the woods, make shelters, learn how to make a fire and use a knife safely. Get to cook on the fire but take a packed lunch too. Booking essential call 01865 407792. 10am - 4pm / £20 adult, £15 child

8-9 Apr Snow White Oxford Playhouse 11 Beaumont Street, OX1 2LW oxfordplayhouse.com A mother who longs for a daughter with unrivalled beauty gets her wish, with devastating consequences. Years later, in the deep dark forest, seven miners are Snow White’s only hope - and temptation is her biggest threat balletLORENT’s dance theatre adaptation of one of the most well loved Brothers Grimm fairytales is a story of magical mirrors, unexpected friendships and the importance of inner beauty. Ages 7+ 2pm, 7pm.

9 Apr Creative Computing Club - Traffic Trouble!

Oxford Innovation Centre New Road, OX1 1BY Have you got what it takes to stop a car collision? Use buttons, lights and sensors to prevent traffic accidents in this fun and interactive session.10.30am/12noon/2pm 10 Apr Puppets Go Wild Pegasus Puppetry, interactive songs, gentle clowning and a chance to meet the puppet stars after the show. Show 45 minutes PLUS meet the puppet cast 15 minutes 11am/2pm 10 Apr Cinderella Green the Recycling Queen Pegasus The show is filled with crazy characters, catchy sing-along songs and the magical puppets made from household objects. For ages 5 and under. £5 16 Apr Growing Happy Together Global Retreat Centre Nuneham Park, OX44 9PG globalretreatcentre.org An uplifting afternoon workshop for parents and their children (ages 4-8).Booking required. 2pm-4pm.

23 Apr Saturday Science Club Oxford Innovation Centre New Road, Oxford, OX1 1BY Join in for an amazing animal adventure to discover incredible facts about some record breaking animals, investigate what makes the best habitat and create incredible adaptations in our own creatures. Hourly time slots from 10.30am, 12pm, 2pm. Ages 5-11's.

See website for details. 10.30am / 12pm/ 2pm. Cost £7 for 1 child + 1 adult. Additional tickets £7.

24 Apr Pinocchio The Beacon Portway, Wantage, OX12 9BX beaconwantage.co.uk Join Ballet Theatre UK as they tell the tale of a wooden puppet carved from pine with but only one wish…to become a real boy. Follow Pinocchio, the cheeky marionette puppet with an unruly nose, on his epic quest as he overcomes obstacles, faces consequences and even ends up in the belly of a whale yet proves to all that dreams really do come true. 3pm / £14 30 Apr-2 May Spring Jousting Tournament Blenheim Palace Woodstock, OX20 1PP blenheimpalace.com A spectacular battle will take place with a mighty jousting tournament on the South Lawn featuring 'The Knights of Royal England'. / A Park and Gardens ticket is required and free for Annual Pass Holders.

1 May Abington Air and Country Show, Abingdon Air Field Off Barrow Road, OX13 6JQ abingdonairandcountry.co.uk Have a super day out for all the family at this popular local event held in support of the Thames Valley Air Ambulance. With a full afternoon air display, static aircraft, falconry, countryside demonstrations, vintage vehicles including ex-military, steam engines, re-enactment groups, music, dance, children’s amusements, tank rides and more!

Wed 23 March to Sun 3 April

BED TIME An Oxford Playhouse production

01865 305305 www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Created and directed by Toby Hulse Put on your PJ’s and prepare for a pillow fight, as Bed Time comes to the Burton Taylor Studio.

Tickets £8.50 (children £6.50) Ages 2 to 6

Fri 8 and Sat 9 April

SNOW WHITE BalletLORENT returns to Oxford with a magical ballet with writing

by Carol Ann Duffy.

Tickets £11 to £19 (family ticket £60) Ages 7+

Oxfordshire Magazine 15

Rye St Antony is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 3-18 (and boys 3-11). Established in 1930 as a lay Catholic foundation, the school is situated in a beautiful 12-acre location overlooking the city of Oxford.

Big enough to challenge: small enough to care

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

Pullen’s Lane, Oxford OX3 0BY

01865 762802 enquiries@ryestantony.co.uk www.ryestantony.co.uk

OPEN MORNINGS: 10th March & 16th March, 9.30am –11.45am ‘Pupils are well-motivated, communicate easily and have well-developed skills for learning.’

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS INSPECTORATE, JANUARY 2016

April 815 2016966 to advertise OLA_OpenDay_Ad_180x130.indd 1 16 March/ Call 01993 with us

www.olab.org.uk Nursery & Junior School: St. John’s Road, Abingdon-on-Thames, Oxfordshire OX14 2HB Tel: 01235 523147 Senior School: Radley Road, Abingdon-onThames, Oxfordshire OX14 3PS Tel: 01235 524658

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk 03/02/2016 10:54