Families Solent East Issue 72 Sep/Oct 2017

Family fun half term events and activities Back to school!

Advice for starting school and independent school open days...

Clubs and classes to try this autumn term

EnRol youR Child and watCh thEiR ConFidEnCE and sElF-EstEEM gRow. n Maths n English n Reading n Comprehension n dyslexia help n spelling

Maths and English tutoRing FoR studEnts agEd 6-16

Call today for a FREE assessment on 023 93 968626 www.ilovetolearn.co.uk

Issue 72 September/October 2017 familiesonline.co.uk

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Families Solent East 1

LARGE MAIN TRAMPOLINE AREA KIDS & ADULT FREERUNNING DODGEBALL(Chi) DOUBLE ENDED FOAM PIT BUILDING JUMP (Chi) TUMBLE TRACK SLAM DUNK NINJA WARRIER (Chi) ROCK CLIMBING r fo ia ed m 3 PARTY ROOMS Find us on social offers! d CAFE the latest news an Chichester

Glenmore Business Park Chichester | PO19 7BJ | 01243 256590 chichester@flipout.co.uk

www.flipout.co.uk

Chichester Festival Youth Theatre present

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST A new adaptation from the original fairy tale

16 – 31 December Ages 7+

Family Tickets Available*

For more family events during Winter 2017 visit cft.org.uk/familyfriendly *T&Cs apply

Southampton

Chandlers Ford Industrial Estate Eastleigh | SO53 4DG | 02382 147811 southampton@flipout.co.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk Tel: 02392 042 874 Managing Editors Caroline Roope Sharon Armstrong editor@familiessolenteast.co.uk Editorial and Design Caroline Roope caroline@familiessolenteast.co.uk Tel: 02392 042 874 07967 597779

Advertising Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk

Next issue November/December 2017 Booking deadline 6 October 2017

Families Solent East delivered directly to parents and carers since 2005

4

News and views

6

Clubs and classes

8

Local independent school guide

10

Starting school guide

11

Half term and Halloween fun

12

What's On

Copyright: Families Solent East 2017 Families Solent East is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Solent East are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Solent East. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Solent East; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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Families Solent East 3

News and Views

The latest local news in our area!

Bedales art and design recognised as one of the UK's best new buildings The new Bedales Art & Design building has been awarded a National Award by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Making “significant contributions to architecture”, the RIBA National Award winners are exemplars of design, innovation and ambition in building. Judges commended the “meaningful student involvement throughout the process; from inception and participating in the selection of the architect, through to use of spaces and detail.”

In their report on the Bedales Art & Design building, RIBA judges stated: “This is a building that engages with the landscape, bringing the outside and inside spaces together... It is a piece of intelligent client commissioning and a great design response.”

Maths Club

by Post!

One Maths teacher from the South has come up with a unique way of giving children extra support at home.

Caroline Cuttress, a qualified Maths teacher with 15 years experience has created a correspondence course which is tailor-made to each child, bursting with puzzles and games which gradually guide the student through a National Curriculum Maths topic. There are prizes for the best work and parents only have to commit to one month at a time. Parental feedback has indicated that children really enjoy the packs and after only a short time they see the benefits in their school work.

For more details visit www.boostmaths.co.uk or contact Caroline for a free pack on 023 8034 1776, email cc@boostmaths.co.uk and ask about Maths Club by Post.

Register for Wear A Hat Day 2018 and start planning your event!

Wear A Hat Day is the UK’s premier brain tumour research fundraising event. It takes place on Thursday 29th March 2018.

March is also UK Brain Tumour Awareness Month. Schools and families across the country get involved to help raise funds for research into brain tumors’.

Brain tumors kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer… yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. Families are being left devastated by this dreadful disease.

This is unacceptable!

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

Live music, arts and crafts, play areas, food stalls and more Find out more at

bedalesevents.co.uk FREE entry Proceeds go to Mencap, The Kings Arms and the John Badley Foundation.

Bedales School, Petersfield GU32 2DG

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Taking part can be as simple as putting on a hat and donating on the day, but most families like to create entertaining fundraising events. Many schools for example have inventive hat competitions, parades and fashion shows and raise hundreds if not thousands of pounds. On average, organisations raise £250, with small ones £50 and some raising more than £2,000! Whatever target you set yourselves aim to smash it!!

More information, event ideas and fundraising tips can be found online: www.wearahatday.org. Register now on www.wearahatday.org and start planning your hattastic fundraising event.

Your fundraising pack will be sent out in early 2018 and will include leaflets, posters, balloons, wristbands and badges to help promote your event and smash your fundraising target! familiesonline.co.uk

Beat the back to school rush with

A one snap solution - they’re re-usable too!

“A truly wonderful product—Snappy Tags takes the hassle and pain out of labelling.” www.verymummy.com

www.snappytags.co.uk

Keep Tabs on their clothes Recommended by

Tel: (01430) 819002

Flip Out Chichester is a fantastic place for the whole family to have fun together....

With wall to wall trampolines, a foam pit, tumble track, free running area and much more there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Flip Out offers party packages for special events or corporate days out, fitness classes to get you in good shape and also have a café to re-fuel after a flipping good session. There’s always something exciting going on so take a look at the website or social media for more information on upcoming events and special offers.

Lazy summer days and plenty of ice-cream, what summer is all about! But before you know it, it’s nearly September and time is spent rushing around the shops for uniform, shoes, pencil cases and bags. We’ve all had that ‘sinking’ feeling when we realise we’ve got to label it all – but not anymore!

Snappy Tags® are the quick and hassle free alternative to all that sewing or ironing. Simply order personalised tags and an applicator, and all you have to do is attach the tag to the care label inside the uniform. A half days’ work done in a 20 minute flash!

To order tags, visit www.snappytags.co.uk Busy Bees brand new purpose built nursery in Chichester has been built with the children's development and fun at the heart of the design. Spacious suites have been designed to have a homely feel while providing the children with separate areas for rest time, play, creative play and meal times.

Welcoming babies and children from 0-5 years Busy Bees at Chichester really couldn't be a more perfect place for your child to flourish and grow.

From day one your child's happiness and wellbeing is priority and Busy Bees take pride in ensuring you and your child will be supported and settled with their bespoke welcome programme.

Brand New Nursery Now Open Visit our purpose built nursery today Take a look around, meet the team and see how happy your child could be in our care

For more information call Shirley on 01243 531 573 Busy Bees Nursery, Summerdale Road, Chichester, PO19 6PL busybeeschildcare.co.uk/nursery/chichester Chichester - East Magazine Artwork.indd 1 familiesonline.co.uk

11/08/2017 08:51:18 Families Solent East 5

Monkey Music – Music really is the food of love!

At Monkey Music, our specially trained teachers ensure that every class is rich, nourishing and great fun! With over 400 specially written songs and activities, our age specific classes take mini monkeys from their first gentle and absorbing musical experiences, right through to early adventures in composing, written notation and learning more about instruments of the orchestra. Our classes include lots of singing, dancing and hands on practice with top quality instruments. Join us this term and give your child a rock-solid foundation for a lifelong love of music!

Monkey Music – nurturing a lifetime of music.

Clubs and Classes With the new autumn term starting, why not sign up to one of these fab local clubs or classes?

Drama, Dance and Singing workshops for 4 -12 year olds Perform 4-7s Grab your snorkel and get ready for an amazing under water expedition. This September, 4–7 yr olds will be diving down to a magical world full of watery adventures. Your child will sing along with Dolly the Dolphin, learn to dance the Fishy Funk and venture into the depths to rescue the Lost Pearl from the scary Deep Sea Creature. Our unique weekly drama classes will boost your child’s confidence and build their concentration as they sing songs and have fun.

Perform 7-12s Fire up your electric guitar and let's rock! Children are invited to the ball with our exciting new show for 7-12s - Cinderella Rocks. This hilarious version of Cinderella features struggling band, The Ugglies, in their quest to top the charts with handsome music mogul, Simon Prince.

With squealing guitars & soaring vocals, this rocktastic adaptation of the original fairy tale has been transformed into an amazing new show perfect for 7–12s. Our inspirational team of theatre professionals will bring the story to life as the children learn songs, dances and scenes from a special script-pack before putting everything together into a dazzling production.

Classes in your local area are: Mondays - CHICHESTER St Michael's Church Hall, Summersdale Road.

PO19 6PN 4 - 5pm (4-7 year olds) 5 - 6pm (7-12 year olds) Tuesdays - FAREHAM Titchfield Community Centre, Mill Street. PO14 4AB 4 - 5pm / 5 - 6pm (4-7 year olds) 6 - 7pm (7-12 year olds)

Your baby was born to love music...

Try our award winning classes for babies from 3 months

Classes held across Hampshire and West Sussex Group discounts for NCT members when 3+ people join together at the same time

Rusalka offers a great start in swimming tuition for your baby and toddler...

Rusalka first opened their swim school in 2005 and they now operate two of their own pools, six days a week, with free adjacent on site parking. Both pools are equipped with state of the art automatic heating systems which maintain the water temperature at 31C and the air temperature at 32C at all times.

In the past eleven years they have taught thousands of babies and children to swim, picking up several national awards along the way, including Best UK Swimming Teacher and ASA Centre of Excellence status. Rusalka takes babies from 3 months old and there are never more than 5 children in a class at any one time. Children can achieve various ASA level Duckling badges and certificates as they progress.

Find out more by calling Rusalka on 02392 594449 or visiting the website at www.rusalkaswim.com.

Rusalka Swim School Teaching local babies to swim since 2005

AUTUMN TERM READER OFFER!

All children are entitled to a no-obligation free trial session. Plus a £40 discount if signing up and quoting discount code UTSS131017 (4-7 yrs) or UTSP131017 (7-12 yrs). Expires 13th October 2017 Call 020 72559120, email enquiries@perform.org.uk or go to www.perform.org.uk 6 F amilies Solent East

www.rusalkaswim.com - 02392 594449 familiesonline.co.uk

Fareham Swim School…..bringing swimming lessons to the High Street If you are looking for good quality, small and friendly swimming lessons, Fareham Swim School are offering just that. Conveniently located on West Street in Fareham (just near to Skool Kit).

Fareham Swim School

Bringing swimming lessons to the High Street

20% off your first baby and toddler lesson in Sep/Oct quote baby&toddler20

We cater for all ages & abilities, from newborn to adult and everyone in between. We have a beautiful private pool, perfectly warm & clean, heated to a minimum of 33’.

To book your lessons or to find out more, please get in touch

Small class sizes max 4:1 | Beautifully warm pools

Lessons are small, with a maximum of 4 children Teacher in the water | After school swim club per class giving little ones the opportunity to Parent & baby/toddler sessions | Confidence grow in confidence and improve in technique quickly and happily. Safety, confidence and hap- building sessions | Specialist Pre school piness are at the top of our list when it comes to Independent classes children swimming. We have specially designed baby, toddler and preschool lessons. Mums dads, grandparents and caregivers welcome in the pool.

farehamswimschool.com

Tel: 01329 802208

New private pool at 153 West Street, Fareham

Open 7 days a week, 48 weeks per year.

Badges, certificates and stickers can be earned!

For more information please call or email one of the team who will be happy to help on Info@farehamswimschool.com, or call 01329 802208. You can also visit the website at www.farehamswimschool. com.

BE GOOD AT BEING YOURSELF Give your child creative courage for life with Stagecoach Performing Arts

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Unlock your child’s potential with Stagecoach Performing Arts Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year olds, where students learn to embrace life with creativity and courage Find out more today:

stagecoach.co.uk/havant havant@stagecoach.co.uk 0845 521 3730

™

Creative Courage For Life

®

Stagecoach Performing Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals.

Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

Every child has all kinds of abilities and capabilities, but unless they explore them, experiment and learn to express themselves, they may never realise the talents within themselves.

Stagecoach sets out to inspire children to unleash their potential, teaching the performing arts and so much more. It’s about taking on a challenge and being unafraid to express yourself, having the courage to be yourself and let others know it, being creative and expressive and building life-long friendships. Stagecoach calls it ‘Creative Courage for Life’.

Classes are small which means every child is given attention and allowed to realise their potential at their own pace.

Principal, Juli Richards, has a fantastic team of experienced teachers there to lead and support youngsters as they conquer fears and rise to new challenges.

To find out more about a two week trial please call Juli on 0845 584854 or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/havant

Families Solent East 7

Explore, Discover & Learn at Ryde School Beach and Forest School are a vital part of the Junior School & Fiveways, alongside the vibrant academic curriculum, children spend time immersed in nature, broadening their learning, building confidence and fostering their natural desire to learn and explore. Inter-schools maths challenges, team sports, explosive science sessions in the Senior School and fun and educational residential trips help children ignite a passion of learning.

Back to school!

September is here - time to go back to school! We've got all the autumn independent school open days covered here, plus some useful advice for starting school - good luck!!

Linda Dennis, Head of the Junior School & Fiveways at Ryde firmly believes that this igniting of childrens' excitement in learning is the way to ensure pupils and their teachers discover the pupil's talents, enabling them to grow and enhance those talents, ready for Senior School and the wider world.

Our next open morning is on Saturday 7 October 10.00am until 12.30pm. Come and join us for interesting activities, a tour of the school and a complimentary family lunch.

For more information please call 01983 617970 or email admissions@rydeschool.net Meoncross School in Stubbington has three autumn term open mornings, offering the perfect opportunity to view the whole school with your family.

Wednesday 13 Sep 9.30am-11.30am

Prep School - Day, Weekly & Full Boarding 8-13 Years | Nursery & Pre-Prep 3-7 Years

Saturday 7 Oct 10am-1pm Tuesday 2 Nov 9.30am-11.30am Visit the website at www.meoncross.co.uk or email enquries@meoncross.co.uk for information.

“A First-Rate Education” ISI 2014

Highfield Open Morning Saturday 7th October 10am - 12 noon

Brookham Pre-Prep & Nursery Bespoke visits – please call to arrange

For more information please visit our website or call 01428 728000 www.highfieldschool.org.uk

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Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7LQ

Highfield & Brookham Schools Highfield & Brookham Schools are charming country Prep and Pre-Prep schools set in sumptuous 175 acre grounds on the Hampshire/ Surrey/Sussex borders offering an exceptional educational experience for children aged 3 to 13.

The facilities are enviable, including extensive sports pitches, an indoor swimming pool, new science labs, a music school and an art school.

Highfield enjoys outstanding academic success and has been preparing pupils for the top education establishments in England for more than a century.

They have a flawless track record for securing every child’s place at their first choice senior school, and an excellent Scholarship success rate. familiesonline.co.uk

EXPERIENCE MORE Open Morning

30 September 2017 | 9.30am Nursery | Infant | Junior | Senior | Sixth Form 023 9236 0036 | www.pgs.org.uk

The Portsmouth Grammar School #NoOrdinarySchool The Portsmouth Grammar School is a leading co-educational school renowned for excellent teaching, superb pastoral care and co-curricular opportunities.

We understand that choosing the right school for your child is very important and we will do all that we can to help you find out what makes us such a friendly and vibrant school. Girls and boys can join from the age of 2½ in the Nursery and at various stages through to Sixth Form.

We provide an extensive programme of scholarships and means-tested bursaries for the Senior School which make it possible for a growing number of pupils to join PGS each year regardless of their financial situation.

To find out more please visit www.pgs.org.uk

Bedales Schools, near Petersfield Get a feel for the unique Bedales Atmosphere at one of their autumn term open mornings: 16 September 2017 – Bedales Prep School, Dunhurst Open Morning 20 September 2017 - Bedales Open Morning (16+) 7 October 2017 - Bedales Open Morning 25 November 2017 - Bedales Open Morning To register, please contact the Deputy Registrar, Jo Alldridge, on 01730 711569 or jalldridge@bedales.org.uk or book online: www.bedales.org.uk

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Families Solent East 9

Starting School a mums survival guide Last September, I was one of thousands of parents across the country waving their reception child off at the school gates...

The beginning of the journey started in April with that all important offer. A summer of anticipation followed, with trips to buy school uniform, name writing practice, playing ‘schools’ and making the most of those final flexible days before we were tied into the daily routine of school runs and living a life that revolved around 9am until 3pm, Monday to Friday.

Everything was building up to that point, but I hadn’t really considered beyond that, and how much school life would impact on us as a family. That first month at school left me feeling surprised, bewildered, proud, frustrated, and a whole host of other emotions – and I am in no doubt that my 4-year-old was probably experiencing something similar to me daily.

It helps to be aware of the possible challenges of having a new school starter, so that you are best armed to get through that first four weeks together unscathed!

Don’t feel guilty if you experience a sense of relief on that first day Not all mums will be reaching for the tissues at the first drop off.

For many mum’s (and this was me) there’s a sense of relief that the hectic toddler years are over and life becomes a bit more structured.

Local mum Katie explains “I just felt relieved as my daughter was so ready for school…I could start reclaiming some of my grown-up time

Dyslexia

Professional Tuition centre I Love to Learn give us an insight into the learning disability dyslexia...

It has been suggested that Dyslexia affects up to 10% of the UK

population to varying degrees, with 4% being severely affected.

The definition of this problem is extremely difficult to pin down and diagnose. Linda Jones from the I Love to Learn Professional Tuition in Southsea gives an overview of the condition.

• A marked inefficiency in the working or short-term memory system • Problems connecting the letter patterns with the associated sounds 10 F amilies Solent East

and return to work.” Blubbing is not compulsory and no one will judge you if you skip back to your car!

Give after-school activities a miss It may be tempting to extend the school day with a few stimulating after-school clubs but mum Jenny explains “Rebecca was so tired and grumpy after school in Reception year that she just didn’t have the stamina to do anything after school except sit and watch TV – after school clubs would have been a complete waste of money for us!”. If they’re keen to do more, wait until the spring or summer term when they will be accustomed to the demands of the school day.

YOUR homework will be…

Aaah yes, the class mascot – good old Dingle the Dog. Dingle comes with his own bag, instructions and a ‘diary’ in which YOU will have to write exactly what Dingle has got up to that weekend at your house, and provide photographic evidence. Looking through the diary and seeing Dingle on a skiing trip and at horse-riding lessons will make you cringe as you glue in a picture of Dingle watching TV or playing on the iPad (oh the shame….!)

You will be asked to part with money on a weekly basis - keep a spare change pot Dad of two girls, Steve, has this practical tip to share – “you’ll never know when you need a bit of spare change to send in to school – for cake sales, raffle tickets, PTA donations, sponsored spells – it doesn’t have to be loads but it’s useful to have say £5 in spare change that you can dip into at short notice”. Or you could be like me and be looking down the back of the sofa at 8.30am for 50p on mufti-day…..

Buy more uniform that you think you’ll need They will lose some uniform, and they will also come home covered in unidentifiable stains that will see you putting an entire outfit straight in the washing bin after only one wear. “You’ll be amazed by the amount of stuff they come home covered in…” explains Amelia, “…it might be a good idea to pick up some second-hand uniform for spares otherwise it can get really expensive” You will never feel prouder… …than when they learn to write their name, read something independently or cross the finish line at sports day – erm…has anyone got a tissue??!

By Caroline Roope

• Difficulties ordering or sequencing; this may also show itself as clumsiness caused by the brain sending the wrong signals to parts of the body in the wrong order • A range of problems connected with visual processing and accessing the memory of visual patterns We often hear children and adults described as ‘dyslexic’, but what do we mean and are we right?

In broad terms dyslexia is mainly a language based learning disability. Those affected have problems acquiring and retaining literacy skills such as reading writing and spelling. It is now widely accepted that dyslexia can also affect a number of other areas including memory, organisation, concentration and even balance. This is why processing information can be so difficult for dyslexics. familiesonline.co.uk

HALLOWEEN ACTIVITIES 25-29 October 2017

Wed – Fri 10.30am – 5pm, Sat & Sun 9am – 5pm (last entry 4.30pm)

Visit West Dean Gardens for spooky fun this Halloween Halloween trail (with chocolate prize) • Face painting Craft activities including making Halloween hats, spooky masks and Halloween lanterns

Child £4 Adult £8.75 (normal gardens entry)

www.westdeangardens.org.uk West Dean Gardens, West Dean, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0RX

Halloween Half Term Fun at West Dean Gardens

Halloween and half term fun!!

Celebrate Halloween at Paultons Park Paultons Park is set to host its family-friendly Halloween event, with ‘spooktacular’ entertainment on offer to guests visiting throughout the October half term (Saturday 21 – Monday 30 October).

Included within the admission price, Paultons Park will celebrate Halloween with an array of frighteningly fun activities for its little visitors, including a Monsters’ Ball, meet and greet and a fancy dress competition.

At intervals throughout the day the Show Stage will host The Little Monsters’ Ball, a daytime dance party that will see monsters dance to ghostly tunes where youngsters can join in with the scary spectacle.

Families will be entertained with spooky meet and greets from magical and mysterious guests, including weird and wonderful witches, vampires and pumpkins, who will be playing tricks on visitors. It wouldn’t be Halloween without a freaky fancy dress competition, encouraging youngsters to wear capes, costumes and an array of face paints for the chance to impress judges and win a prize. All of the theme park’s rides and attractions are open as usual during this time.

For further information about Paultons Park Halloween activities visit www.paultonspark.co.uk.

Join the spooky Halloween fun at West Dean Gardens near Chichester, 25-29 October, and follow the Halloween Trail through the award-winning gardens.

West Dean Gardens combines the great outdoors with fun children’s activities; it’s definitely worth a visit in October half term. Children who complete the trail will get a Montezuma’s chocolate prize and there’s lots for the kids to do with spooky Halloween craft activities including making scary masks, Halloween lanterns and hats.

Entry for children costs £4 and includes all the activities, adults cost normal gardens entry (£8.75). Come along 10.30am-5pm MondayFriday or why not come for breakfast from 9am at the weekend?

Book your Halloween tickets at www.westdeangardens.org.uk.

Join the Fishbourne Roman Army this half-term!

Get an army “tattoo”, try your hand at spear practice and see if you can earn your keep as a new recruit during Roman Army Week at Fishbourne Roman Palace this Half Term (23rd – 27th October)

Staunton Farm and Country Park

Sign up with the recruitment officer and learn to write your name in Latin before completing a range of tasks to “earn” a day’s pay.

With a rare breeds farm, the south coast’s largest ornamental glasshouses, beautiful gardens and 1,000 acres of country park to explore there’s something for everyone to see and enjoy this autumn at Staunton. Children can feed the farm animals and join in our fun animal encounter sessions, then let off steam in George’s play barn, which includes a soft play toddler zone.

Other activities include archery, sword practice and dressing-up Roman-style. Once you have completed the activities, return to the recruitment officer, to receive a certificate and a (replica) Roman coin as your first day’s pay!

Relax in the beautiful walled gardens, take in the sights, sounds and smells of the sensory garden, or enjoy a stroll in the beautifully landscaped parkland. See the fantastic brand new outdoor play area with its fully accessible play equipment. Set sail to China on Sir George Staunton’s punt boat and discover spinning tea cups, a large climbing frame with its Chinese inspired rooftops, accessible swings and much more!

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astic t k o o sp Have a ween and hallo erm!! half t Families Solent East 11

10 September and 8 October Port Solent Waterside Market Spot the dot for FREE events!

We’ve scoured the area for local family events this September and October! We take great care in compiling our events guide, but please contact venues before you leave home as things can change.

7 September and 10 September Heritage Open Day at Bursledon Brickworks

closed doors! 10.30am-12.30pm: Children’s fun at the museum, come and try to recreate some of our artefacts by using junk modelling. 2-3.30pm.

Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum, Swanwick Lane, Southampton, SO31 7HB 01489 576248 www.bursledonbrickworks.org.uk

9-10 September and 21-22 October Southsea Crafts Market

A chance to see the museum for FREE! The brickworks are open again as part of this national scheme to help everyone get close to our amazing heritage. This year thanks to a donation from Taylor Wimpey the museum will be steaming up the engines on Sunday 10th. 11am to 4pm.

7 September Monkey Music FREE Taster Session Meadowside Leisure Centre, Whiteley Way, Whiteley, Fareham, PO15 7LJ. 01489 565443 Monkey Music is coming to Whiteley!

FREE open day sessions on Thursday 7th Sept at 12pm and 1:00pm. We would love to welcome you and your family for some musical fun and games. Suitable for children aged 3mths to 4 yrs. Places are limited so, please call, or email to book your place. Session 1 12:0012:30pm (Toddlers -4yrs) Session 2 1:001:30pm (Babies from 3 months)

9 September Behind the Scenes at the Museum Petersfield Museum, The Old Courthouse, St Peter’s Road, Petersfield, GU32 3HX. 01730 262601.

Southsea Farmers' Market, Palmerston Road, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 3QE, www.woodlandcrafts.co.uk/craftmarkets-southsea/ Woodland Crafts Events Management will run a monthly Crafts Market in the heart of Southsea. Find lovely, locally made products, as well as plenty of beautiful things from further afield.

Palmerston Road is Portsmouth's principal pedestrianised shopping area, and these Crafts Markets are the opportunity for a great range of local crafts people to exhibit their wares. Free to browse the stalls! Saturday 9am – 5pm and Sunday 10am – 4pm.

10 September Special Sunday Gun Firings at Fort Nelson Royal Armouries, Fort Nelson, Royal Armouries Fort Nelson, Fareham, Hampshire, PO17 6AN. 01329 233734.

Fort Nelson is one of the few places where you can experience live black-powder firings of historic artillery pieces. On selected Sundays throughout the year there are special firings. Guns are fired at: 11:30am, 2pm and 3pm, with the exception of the 13-inch Land Service Mortar and the 32-pounder which are fired at 11 am, 11:30 am, 2 pm, 2:30 pm, 3 pm and 3:30 pm. In addition, one of the big guns will be fired daily at 1pm. Free to come along.

The Boardwalk, Port Solent, Portsmouth, PO6 4TP. 02392 210606.

Head to Port Solent for an enjoyable saunter through stalls of beautiful home furnishings, stylish gifts, homemade crafts, stunning jewellery, delicious cakes and other yummy treats. Plus, with free parking you can afford to stay all day and make a day of it! 11am-5pm.

16 September Mister Maker and The Shapes Live!

The Kings Theatre, Albert Road, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 2QJ. 02392 828282 CBeebies' Mister Maker is back by popular demand in his smash hit live theatre tour! With a fabulous supporting cast and art at its heart, this fantastic live show encourages Mini Makers and grown-ups to sing, dance and make some noise! There are exciting new ‘makes’ and songs, lots of audience participation, a BIG ‘make’ to take part in, and….The Shapes are back!

Performances at 10am and 1pm.

16 September Pallant Goes Jungle Pallant House Gallery, 9 North Pallant, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1TJ A drop-in Free Family Activity providing a space for the whole family to get creative together. Be inspired by the paintings of John Minton and create a Pallant Jungle.

Making a large scale collaborative piece that will grow over the morning, participants will build a jungle scene complete with tropical birds. 10.30am – 12.30pm, no booking required.

9-10 September and 28-29 October Eastney Bean Engine House Open Day Eastney Beam Engine House, Henderson Road, Eastney, Southsea, PO4 9JF. 02392 834779.

View a pair of classic Boulton and Watt beam engines and pumps at this special open day. Eastney Beam Engine House is an impressive Victorian building containing a pair of classic Boulton Watt beam engines and pumps restored to their original 1887 condition.

Please note there is restricted access and the engines will not be in steam.

Open 1pm-5pm.

As part of the national Heritage Open Day festival, you can visit the Museum for free and also see what happens behind 12 F amilies Solent East

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17 September Beach Clean Blue Reef Aquarium, Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 3PB. 02392 875222.

Our seas and beach areas need to be kept as clean as possible to ensure the marine life have the best living conditions. Come on down and help our staff scour the Southsea seafront for rubbish to help keep our local area clean.

23-24 September Junior Experience Days Blue Reef Aquarium, Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 3PB. 02392 875222.

Do you know a youngster who is interested in animals? The aquarium is hosting its first Junior Experience Days where children will get the chance to go behind scenes to our science lab and learn some of the skills needed to work at an aquarium. The 2-hour session will include feeding of animals, learning about one of the daily food processes and each child will receive a goodie bag.

Pre-booking is essential.

23 September and 28 October Saturday Craft Club Emsworth Library, 23 High Street, Havant, Hampshire, PO10 7AW. 0845 6035631 Have fun and be creative at this free library activity session. Something different to do each month. Drop in between 9.30am and 12noon. Suitable for children 4 and over. Parents and carers to stay with their children. For further information please contact the library.

24 September Trains galore at Bursledon Brickworks Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum, Swanwick Lane, Swanwick, Southampton, SO31 7HB. 01489 576248. www.bursledonbrickworks.org.uk The September Steam-up Sunday will have as its focus trains – an extra treat for train lovers! The museum will be all steamed up and working plus the café and the museum. There will be train displays and stalls selling train related bits and bobs. Hampshire Narrow Gauge Railway Trust will be running their trains.

11am to 4pm - Adults £6; Concs. £5; Children £4; Families £15.

24 September Badley Community Festival Bedales School, Church Road, familiesonline.co.uk

Steep, Petersfield, Hampshire, GU32 2DG. 01730 300100.

Free event (stalls charge individual fees). Live music, animals, arts and crafts, games, dance and sport await you. Throughout the day, there will be workshops on writing, mindfulness and lots more. Food and refreshments will be on sale all day. The festival is an opportunity for us to share the wonderful surroundings at Bedales and our facilities with the local community, it is also an opportunity to fundraise for our charitable partners: Mencap, The Kings Arms, and the John Badley Foundation. Starts at 11am.

30 September The Portsmouth Grammar School Open Morning

Staunton's Spooky Scarecrows

Spooky fun at the farm!

21 October – 29 October 10.30am – 3.30pm Have lots of fun at the park with creepy crafts and frightening face painting.

Follow our Scarecrow Trail and have a spooky animal encounter.

The Portsmouth Grammar School, High Street, Portsmouth, PO1 2LN. 02392 360036.

The 2017 Open Morning will be on Saturday 30 September from 09:30 – 12:30. There is no need to book for this event, just come along on the day.

If you would like to attend the Senior School and Sixth Form Open Events on 12 October or 14 November, contact Mrs Collette Newton on 023 9236 4244.

1 October Brainiac Live New Theatre Royal, Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth, PO1 2DD. 02392 649000.

Strap on your safety goggles boys and girls! Due to popular demand, science's greatest and most volatile live show is returning with a vengeance. Brainiac Live - based on the multi-award-winning TV show is back, and more mischievous than ever before. The show will take you on a breathless ride through the wild world of the weird and wonderful.

Performance at 2pm.

1 October Wood is Good! Woodcraft Fayre Butser Ancient Farm, Chalton Lane, Chalton, PO8 0BG. 02392 598838.

Come along and enjoy woodworking and craft from a range of local woodworkers as well as the Hampshire Coppice Group. There will be a variety of traditional skills being demonstrated and handmade wooden artefacts to purchase. Standard entrance rates apply.

6 October Paper Landscapes Pallant House Gallery, 9 North Pallant, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1TJ. 01243 774557.

Free hands-on creative sessions for young visitors aged 0–4 years,

Based on The Scarecrows’ Wedding by Julia Donaldson

Farm

www.hants.gov.uk/staunton www.hants.gov.uk www.hants.gov.uk encouraging them to discover, play and explore with different materials. Children must be accompanied by a parent/carer who is willing to create and make. Book early as places are limited.

teachers and parents and discover what Ryde has to offer. A complimentary family lunch is also provided.

0–4 years; 10.15am – 12.15pm; Free.

7-8 October Fun Palaces

7 October Bookstory

Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 6AP. 01243 781312.

The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, 56 East Street, Havant, Hampshire, PO9 1BS. 02392 472700.

Fun Palaces is an annual, free, nationwide celebration of arts and culture, with the local community right at its centre. We’ll be opening the doors of our Theatres to make our own Fun Palace here in Chichester and we want YOU to come along and help us create it.

This is the story of some books. Some books who live in a library. But this is no ordinary library. This library belongs to Brian. It’s a wonderful, magical place where the books like to flutter their pages and let their shelves go… This latest show from Monstro Theatre, the pioneers of the Puppet Musical, is a magical performance that brings books to life for children and their grown-ups alike. Recommended for ages 5+ Tickets: £8, £7 groups of four or more. Running time 1 hour.

Workshops, performances, tours, it’s all happening here. No need to book in advance, just check the website nearer the time for the full details.

7 October Ryde School Open Day Ryde School, 7 Queens Road, Ryde, PO33 3BE. The next whole school open mornings will be held on Saturday 7 October 2017, 10.00-12.30 and Saturday 3 February 2018, 10.00-12.30. Join the school team for the morning, talk with pupils, Families Solent East 13

What's on 9-12 October Storyteller, Storyteller Monday 9 October - Emsworth Library Tuesday 10 October - Waterlooville Library Wednesday 11 October - Leigh Park Library Thursday 12 October - Hayling Island Library What happens when two children’s storytellers arrive at the same place at the same time to tell their stories? Then, what happens if both of them think they are THE Storyteller? A head to head that leads to a feast of clowning, physical silliness and some magical non-verbal storytelling, that’s what! Book your ticket in advance, for no upfront cost, and then decide what you think the show is worth after you’ve seen it. There will be the chance to pay at the end with cash, cheque or debit/credit card.

15 October Autumn Discovery Day The Petersfield Sustainability Centre, The Sustainability Centre, Mercury Park, East Meon, Petersfield, Hampshire, GU32 1HR. 01730 823166 A FREE open day for all the family.

Explore the beautiful woods and discover hands-on sustainability. Enjoy activities such as willow-weaving, bushcraft and apple pressing. There will be fun activities for children to get involved in too. Starts at 10am

17 October SEN Halloween Party Monkey Bizness, Unit 1 Frater Gate Business Park, Aerodrome Road, Gosport, PO13 0GW. 01329 239035. www.monkey-bizness.co.uk A Halloween party for children with special needs and/or disabilities and their families. 0-12 years. Use of the play frame - Glow in the dark craft - Disco/ Sensory room 5.30-7.30pm. £5 per ticket (for 1 adult and 1 child)

20 October Samhaim Festival Butser Ancient Farm, Chalton Lane, Chalton, PO8 0BG. 02392 598838.

Join Butser Ancient Farm to celebrate the evening of Samhain in the magical surroundings of the Great Roundhouse.

Between 7-10pm you will enjoy live music, professional storytelling by Jonathon Huet of Walk with Trees, a bar with local ales and hot refreshments.

Tickets £15 per head. Samhain is a Gaelic festival marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, or the ‘darker half’ of the year. Doors open 6.55pm.

20 October Halloween Spooktacular Monkey Bizness, Unit 1 Frater Gate Business Park, Aerodrome Road, Gosport, PO13 0GW, 01329239035. www.monkey-bizness.co.uk.

Monkey Bizness Gosport will be holding the best Halloween party yet!! Included is a magician, a disco, face-painting, balloon modelling, party games, a food box and a fancy dress competition! To purchase a ticket please call or pop into the centre!! 5:30-7:30pm. £9 for 1 adult and 1 child.

21-29 October Weird and Wonderful Blue Reef Aquarium, Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 3PB. 02392 875222.

Visitors will be treated to a spooktacular event at the aquarium for the October half term. Discover disgusting facts and stories about the strangest animals housed at the aquarium and take part in a grisly animal tour. The Bugman will be visiting the aquarium with a host of bizarre animals that you can touch and hold (date to be confirmed).

10-14 October The Wizard of Oz The Kings Theatre, Albert Road, Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 2QJ. 02392 828282.

Award winning Musical Theatre Company The Portsmouth Players present ‘The Wizard of Oz’. After a tornado whisks away a young Kansas farm girl, Dorothy, to the magical land of Oz, she starts her quest to find the mighty Wizard of Oz who has the power to send her home. Along the way she meets a Scarecrow, a Tin Woodsman and a Cowardly Lion who help her on her journey. This version includes many of the songs from the famous MGM musical. Performances at 7.30pm daily.

2.30pm matinee Saturday.

14 F amilies Solent East

19 October Sleeping Beauty New Theatre Royal, 20-24 Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth, PO1 2DD. 023 9264 9000. www.newtheatreroyal.com/ performances/sleeping-beauty/ Vienna Festival Ballet presents Sleeping Beauty. A classic fairytale set to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score.

Stunning choreography and beautiful costumes combine to portray the struggle between good and evil.

Following the traditional tale of Sleeping Beauty, this ballet is sure to enchant audiences of all ages. 7.30pm - 9.30pm.

See website for ticket details.

21-29 October Staunton’s Spooky Scarecrows Staunton Farm and Country Park, Middle Way, Havant, PO9 5HB. 02392 453405.

Spooky fun at the farm! Have lots of fun at the park with creepy crafts and frightening face painting. Follow our Scarecrow Trail and have a spooky animal encounter. Normal admission applies. Small charge for some crafts and activities. All children must be supervised by an adult.

21 October The Owl and the Pussycat The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, 56 East Street, Havant, Hampshire, PO9 1BS. 02392 472700.

Combining stunning classical ballet, storytelling and beautiful costumes, this is a bite-sized humorous adaptation of the original Edward Lear poem designed specifically for young audiences. There will also be a photo opportunity after the show for children on stage with the dancers. Recommended for ages 2 – 11 and their family including children with special needs. Running time 40 minutes.

Starts at 11am.

23-27 October Roman Army Week Fishbourne Roman Palace, Roman Way, Fishbourne, West Sussex, PO19 3QR, 01243 785859.

The Fishbourne Roman Army needs you! Sign up for the Roman Army and complete fun, hands-on challenges to earn your pay for the day! From sword practice to food tasting, fake wounds to making clay medals, Roman medicine to spear throwing, there is plenty to do, indoors and out.

24-26 October October Half Term: Spook Spectacular The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, 56 East Street, Havant, Hampshire, PO9 1BS. 02392 472700.

There are going to be some spooky goings-on at The Spring this October half term! Come along...if you're brave enough...Suitable for aged 4 – 7. Please note children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Price includes a free tea/coffee and squash. Sessions at 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-3.30pm.

25 October Children’s Starlit Walk Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, PO1 3LJ Join Rowans Hospice on a sponsored walk for an evening of fun and laughter.

Walk a 1.5 or 3 mile route which takes you past HMS Victory and into secret areas of HM Naval Base not normally open to the public. This year’s optional fancy dress theme is Pirates and Princesses. Every child will receive a medal, a hot drink and a snack. Starts at 6.30pm. For more information and online registration visit www. rowanshospice.co.uk/starlit

25 October Spooky Storytelling and Spirit Hunt Butser Ancient Farm, Chalton Lane, Chalton, PO8 0BG. 02392 598838.

Join Butser Ancient Farm in the great roundhouse for an afternoon of storytelling with Fayebles! You can also take part in the Spirit Hunt around the farm – suitable for all the family! Please familiesonline.co.uk

Fairy tale Christmas at Chichester Festival Theatre The award-winning Chichester Festival Youth Theatre present a brand new adaptation of the much loved classic BEAUTY AND THE BEAST in this year’s eagerly awaited Christmas production, running from 16–31 December.

note that although under-fives are free you should still book a ticket for them.

25-29 October Halloween Activities West Dean Gardens, West Dean, Nr Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0QZ. Are your little monsters brave enough to follow the Halloween trail and take part in a cauldron of Halloween activities?

Visit West Dean Gardens for spooky fun this Halloween. Dress in your scariest Halloween costumes (adults too!) for a place on our best dressed photo wall.

Children's activities include: Halloween trail (with chocolate prize), make a creepy crawly hotel, face painting, craft activities and lots more! Child entry £4, Adults £8.75 (normal gardens entry).

10.30am – 5pm daily.

26 October Crafty's Creepy Castle - Trick or Treat Show New Theatre Royal, 20-24 Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth, PO1 2DD. 02392 649000 www.newtheatreroyal.com/ performances/craftys-creepycastle-trick-or-treat-show Why has Crafty the Crow gone to live in a haunted castle? Can Sally the Scarecrow help him with its ghostly goings-on? And what haunted happenings are making things go bump in the night? Come in your scariest Hallowe’en costume and join the adventure to find the hidden treasure in Crafty’s Creepy Castle.

Suitable for 2-7 year olds and then meet Crafty afterwards and receive a special Trick Or Treat present! 2pm - 3pm. See website for ticket details.

26 October Terrifying Tudors Groundlings Theatre, 42 Kent Street, Portsea, PO1 3BS. 02392 737370.

Terrifying Tudors, watch your head, make sure you duck for the cannon balls and have a jousting match in this interactive show that will keep the whole family laughing in the aisles. Adults £6.50, Children £5.50, Family of Four Ticket £20.

Performance at 11am.

familiesonline.co.uk

26 October Vicky and the Victorians Groundlings Theatre, 42 Kent Street, Portsea, PO1 3BS. 02392 737370.

Vicky and the Victorians is a top hat tale looking at life in Victorian Britain. Adults £6.50, Children £5.50, Family of Four Ticket £20. Performance at 2pm.

27 October Haunted Staunton Staunton Farm and Country Park, Middle Way, Havant, PO9 5HB. 02392 453405.

New for 2017! Why not discover what makes Staunton go bump in the night.

Join us for this guided tour and meet some of Staunton's past residents.

6.30pm - 8.30pm.

27 October Olaf the Horrible Groundlings Theatre, 42 Kent Street, Portsea, PO1 3BS. 02392 737370.

It's a hard life being 'orrible, said Olaf!

Join him on his invading quest to find Thor's mighty magical belt which he lost in the river. We wouldn't want his trousers to fall down! Fantastic family fun with this Viking tale, which will have children crying out for more! Bring a Picnic! Performance at 12 noon. £6.50 Adults, £5.50 Children, Family of Four Ticket £20.

27 October Theseus and the Monsters Groundlings Theatre, 42 Kent Street, Portsea, PO1 3BS. 02392 737370.

Join Theseus on his quest for mythical monsters, magical moments and plenty of merriment! Bring a picnic. Adults £6.50, Children £5.50, Family of Four Ticket £20.

27-28 October Halloween at Stansted House and Grounds Stansted Park, Rowlands Castle, Hampshire, PO9 6DX. Enjoy some spooky fun in the spectacular surroundings of Stansted Park.

Prejudice, jealousy, compassion and love are woven through this magical story, studded with enchanting and deliciously scary characters. This visually spectacular show will feature newly composed songs and wonderfully inventive designs, suitable for ages 7+.

There will be a Relaxed Performance on 31 December at 11am for individuals, groups and families with children on the autistic spectrum, sensory and communication disorders or anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed theatre environment.

Tickets from £10. Family Tickets available. T&Cs apply.

For more family shows and events this winter visit cft.org.uk/familyfriendly or call 01243 781312.

27-28 October Museums at Night Petersfield Museum, The Old Courthouse, St Peter’s Road, Petersfield, GU32 3HX. 01730 262601.

This year as part of Museums at Night the museum will be hosting two film nights with Fork Handles Kitchen. On Friday 27 you can join the museum at 4.30pm for a Harry Potter themed night.

After a fancy-dress competition and arts & crafts activities, we will go and watch Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (certificate PG) at Fork Handles Kitchen.

Pizza and popcorn is provided! Tickets: Children - £10 Adults - £8

28 October Ensonglopedia of Science The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, 56 East Street, Havant, Hampshire, PO9 1BS. 02392 472700.

Experience this one hour whirlwind journey through everything (well, nearly everything…) there is to know about science! Expect the unexpected…and expect it to rhyme! Recommended for ages 7+. Running time 1 hour.

Performances at 11.30am and 2.30pm.

fairground, food and drink stalls, bouncy castle, face painters and free entry to Explosion. 5pm-11pm. £6 for adults, £4 for children (under 5’s free)

29 October Halloween Steam Up at Bursledon Brickworks Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum, Swanwick Lane, Southampton, SO31 7HB. 01489 576248. www.bursledonbrickworks.org.uk The resident traction engines and road rollers will be home again after the summer away and the museum will be in steam. The Trains Trust will be running their trains and inside there is the museum itself with lots of activities for children plus additional specials including Halloween activities, craft stalls, cafe and live music. 11am to 4pm. Adults £6; Concs. £5; Children £4; Families £15

29 October Fireworks at Explosion!

Museum of Naval Firepower Explosion! Museum of Naval Firepower, Priddy’s Hard, Gosport, PO12 4LE. 02392 505600.

As experts on firepower and explosives, this year’s Fireworks at The National Museum of the Royal Navy’s Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower looks set to be even bigger and better than before There will be so much to see and do, including a fire-performer, bonfire, Families Solent East 15

EXPLORATION & DISCOVERY Fiveways - for girls and boys aged 2 1/2 to 7 The Junior School - for girls and boys aged 7 to 11 FREE EXPLORATION & DISCOVERY SESSIONS Saturday 30 September and Saturday 11 November 10.00 to 12.00PM NEXT OPEN MORNING Saturday 7 October 10.00 to 12.30PM FOR MORE INFORMATION Call +44 (0)1983 617970 or visit www.rydeschool.org.uk/open-days-and-visits