Families Hereford and Worcester Jan/Feb 2015

The really useful magazine for parents of children 0-12 years

Issue No 31 January/February 2015

5 years old!

Families Hereford & Worcester is for Sale See page 5

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

News & Views

Editor’s Letter

Midlands based charity Kids Run Free has launched an exciting free event for children in Worcester.

Dear readers I hope you had an enjoyable Christmas and a very Happy New Year to you.

Families Hereford and Worcester is 5 years old now and it is time for me to move on. If you are interested in purchasing a Webbs of Wychbold well-established, popular, local magazine then please give me a ring for more details.

Several Families magazines are run by joint Editors so you could even purchase the business with a friend or partner.

If you would like to advertise your business in the Mar/Apr issue of Families Hereford and Worcester covering the Easter holidays and reach 44,000 parents then call me on 01386 791422 or email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk. We offer free advice and a free design service. Copy deadline is Friday 6th February.

Karen Craven (local Mum of 3, Step Mum to 2 plus Adoptive Mum to Salsa our retriever)

Editor, Families Hereford and Worcester

Contact details: Tel: 01386 791422 Mob: 07981 564053 email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

In this issue 02

Editor’s Letter

02

News & Views

04

Ed’s Reading Room

05

New Year New You

06 Education 10

How to choose the best nursery for your child

12

What to expect from your child’s nursery education

14

Ask the expert

15

What’s On

Kids Run Free is a charity with the mission to create fun, sustainable running opportunities for 0-16 year olds, igniting their passion for sport and physical activity and allowing them to become healthier, happier, more confident children.

Children of all abilities are welcome to take part at 9am at The Mayfly Café at Cob House Fisheries, Worcester Road, Wichenford, WR6 6Y. This genuine family event happens on the second and fourth Saturday of every month.

Register for free at www.kidsrunfree.co.uk To volunteer email Justin@kidsrunfree.co.uk

Pharmaton Vitality Capsules We all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy day at work or with the kids and coping with everything can be an everyday battle.

Did you know that taking Pharmaton Vitality capsules reduces temporary tiredness and restores vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks?

Pharmaton Vitality capsules are packed with vitamins, minerals and the unique G115 that’s clinically proven to relieve fatigue and also aid mental and physical wellbeing. Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials and studies.

Try Pharmaton Vitality Capsules, to feel the positive difference.

(Licensed medicine) for the relief of fatigue. Always read the label.

Next issue: Jan/Feb 2015, Editorial and booking deadline: Friday 6th February

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All content Copyright 2015 Families Hereford and Worcester Circulation: 22,000 copies of Families Hereford and Worcester are available through nurseries, pre-schools, schools, libraries, soft play centres, selected shops and other distribution points throughout the county. If you would like free copies for your organisation or if you would like to subscribe so you don’t miss an issue please contact us.

Families Hereford and Worcester is part of the Families Group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the content nor for any consequence.

Design: Natalie Schmidt at www.matobodesign.com, Tel: 020 8676 2857 Print: The Manson Group, St Albans at www.manson-grp.co.uk, Tel: 01727 848440 Front Cover: www.angelarobinsonphotography.co.uk

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January – February 2015

News & Views Dancefest begins new Spring Term Dancefest’s spring term starts on 12 January, with classes in Herefordshire and Worcestershire for all ages; from toddlers, Mini Movers and Dance Clubs, to youth dance performance companies and adults.

There are weekly classes and guest workshops in contemporary, choreography, creative and urban dance, with lots of opportunities to take part in and watch performances.

There’s an audition for a brand new youth dance company, Elevate Junior, for 10-13 year olds on Monday 12 January at 3.45pm-4.45pm at Hereford College of Arts.You can find out more and book on to classes at www.dancefest.co.uk

Over £400 raised to buy toys for Worcester children’s ward A father from Worcester has raised £400 for The Worcester Royal Hospital Children’s Ward and Birmingham Children’s Hospital, after the two hospitals looked after his twin boys.

Thomas George Walding and Ethan Lewis Walding were born in September 2013, but spent a lot of time during their first year of life in the hospitals’ children’s wards. The father of the twins, Darren Wilding, launched a fundraising campaign on Yimby, the crowdfunding platform that allows anyone to make good things happen: www.justgiving.com/yimby/runningformytwins Darren says “We have been blessed with beautiful twin boys who were born in September 2013. The Worcester Royal Hospital Children’s Ward and Birmingham Children’s Hospital have looked after my twin boys on several occasions during their first year of life, so I wanted to raise money for both wards. It is my intention to use the money to buy quality toys so a child’s stay in hospital is made as comfortable as possible.”

To find out more about Yimby or set up a crowdfunding project, visit www.yimby.com

High fliers The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts is taking their fantastic performing arts experience to Savannah Beach Hotel in Barbados this year. In a unique collaboration with Virgin Holidays, children aged 4-16 will be able to sing, dance and act in PQA’s action packed workshops while you relax on the beach. ‘I’m really excited about working with Virgin Holidays on the launch of the Pauline Quirke Academy at Savannah Beach in Barbados,’ said Pauline Quirke. ‘Both parties know more than anyone how important it is to offer fun activities for young people while they are on their holidays, and our fabulous workshops do exactly that. Families will go away with some brilliant holiday memories as the sessions not only build young peoples’ confidence, but they also bring out the performer in everyone whilst enjoying the sunshine!’

Workshops have been skilfully crafted by PQA’s creative team which includes an educational element tied into the colourful history of the Caribbean, regaling tales of everything from local pirates to the ghosts of Savannah Beach, and culminating in a performance of their very own PQA show. The classes are free of charge to children staying at Savannah Beach.

Book at www.virginholidays.co.uk or call 0844 557 3859. Find your nearest Pauline Quirke Academy at www.pqacademy.com or call 0845 6732 022.

January – February 2015

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

3 Hereford & Worcester

Ed’s Reading Room FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

The Eager Elephant by Amelia Cobb (Nosy Crow £4.99)

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my New Year book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online and from good bookstores. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

HomeKitchen is your local, home-made delivery service.

We believe in using the very best of the ingredients on offer in Worcestershire, to deliver you something delicious, honest and wholesome.

We are designed to take the stress away from meal planning, food shopping and cooking, delivering home-made dinners to your door.

We cater for all, perfect for families, the elderly or busy individuals.

Phone: 07973284041 email: food@homekitchenworcester.co.uk Website: www.homekitchenworcester.co.uk

ED SAYS: ‘Zoe knows how lucky she is living at the Rescue Zoo where her mother works and she also has a special secret – she can understand the animals’ growls and grunts and talk back to them. There is huge excitement when Zoe’s great-uncle arrives home from Africa with a crate containing a baby elephant. Zoe enthusiastically follows Bertie’s progress but when Bertie finds himself in danger will Zoe and her animal friends be able to rescue him?

‘This is a lovely story for animal-lovers with more exciting adventures in the series.

It is ideal for newly-confident readers or for reading together.’

The Royal Babysitters by Clémentine Beauvais (Bloomsbury £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘When Holly and Anna read about an intergalactic holiday of a lifetime they absolutely have to go on, they decide they will have to get a job to pay for it. They soon talk themselves into being royal babysitters for a day but they are in for a shock when they realise there are six princes to be looked after – and an invasion to repel. Will the girls be able to survive the dangers and problems hurled at them during this crazy day of princesitting?

‘Here is a madcap adventure to delight both boys and girls.

The story is complemented throughout with fantastic illustrations.’

NEW YEAR COMPETITION DRAW – SIX OF THE BEST! Email Ed – ed@edontheweb.com – telling him the title of your favourite ever book and stating your age (11 and under), with Families Magazine in the Subject line. The lucky winner will receive SIX fantastic books for their age. Closing date 18th January 2015.

Tonia Peters

BSc (Hons), PGCE, MEd (Ed Psych)

Educational Psychologist

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

Terror Town by Marcus Sedgwick

(Chartered by the BPS)

Independent assessment and advice for all special needs including autism, learning difficulties, dyslexia, dyspraxia and attention problems

Tel: 07853 248311

Grafton Psychology Associates Ltd Trading as Tonia Peters Company Registration Number: 7853233. Registered in England and Wales.

(Orion £6.99) ED SAYS: ‘Elf Girl and Raven Boy, along with their friend Rat, are speeding across hills and fields on a magic flying carpet towards Terror Town. They have the Tears of the Moon but they must find the Singing Sword in order to save the world from the Goblin King. Zombies and werewolves are roaming the streets of Terror Town but there are also other scary things – and people – to contend with while attempting to complete their mission.

‘This is a fantastic story and a real page-turner of a book. If you enjoy it as much as I did you will want to look out for the next part of Elf Girl and Raven Boy’s travels.’

Mountwood School for Ghosts by Toby Ibbotson

When you are an expectant mother to be, you want to cherish every moment of your pregnancy, birth and the long happy days ahead with your new baby. As a doula, to support you (and your partner) on your journey would be an honour and pleasure, in this, your memorable birthing experience.

(Macmillan £12.99) ED SAYS: ‘Ghosts aren’t what they used to be, according to one 473 year old teacher! So she and her spectral friends set up Mountwood School for Ghosts to promote excellence in haunting.

Two young humans Daniel and Charlotte meet the likeable ghost Percy and when they realise that problems in their neighbourhood (created by humans) are seemingly insuperable they enlist the help of the phantoms of Mountwood.

www.mumtomumdoulacare.co.uk

078 9688 4515 or email: esparkes@live.co.uk

Teresa Jones – Personal Tutor S.E.N & Dyslexia Specialist (KS1-4-Adult)

‘This is a thrilling and imaginatively-written story that will have you on the edge of your seat. It is action-packed and full of humour.’

1:1 Literacy & Numeracy Support; GCSE English, Study Skills & Exam Techniques, SATS & Common Entrance Practise.

Tel: 07999 534525 e-mail: Trees27@btinternet.com www.tjonestuition.co.uk ‘Your child is my priority’ 4

Hereford & Worcester

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award-winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating. You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

January – February 2015

Smile As the song says ‘Pack up your troubles in your old kit bag, and smile, smile, smile’. Make it your mission to smile even when you don’t feel like it. Research suggests the act of smiling alone can help lift spirits.

Gratitude and attitude Just before sleep each night, think of three things you are grateful for that day. Anything that warms the cockles of your heart will do. Going to sleep with a smile on your face will put you in a better mood in the morning.

Be kind to yourself Children respond better to understanding and compassion for their mistakes than to being berated – and so do we!

So this month give up beating yourself up (even if you eat a cream cake!).

Share a laugh with the kids Put aside one ‘treat time’ each week to play a game with the children; snuggle up on the sofa with popcorn to watch a movie, or play chasing in the park.

Put things in perspective Remember that each day of January takes you one step closer to summer. Everything looks better in the sunshine and you will feel more energised. You might even get round to making that New Year Resolution!

Would you like to fit work around your children, rather than fit children around work?

Would you like an extra income, OR new, flexible career with full, on going training and support, working part time, from home?

• Are you tired of having to book holiday from work, and await it being approved, to enjoy precious moments with your child at school events, and during the school holidays?

• Do you worry about taking time off work to look after your child when school is closed or they are ill?

If you’re looking for a business that actually fits around your children and current job commitments, with incomes from £200 - £2000+ a month then contact Lucie for further information today on 0781 7491497 or email: ljkkey@btinternet.com.

January – February 2015

New Year New You: time to detox our lives?

© Pixelbliss - Fotolia.com

© www.angelarobinsonphotography.co.uk

Some guidelines for just getting through January

New Year New You

M

any of us wake up on January 1st feeling exhausted from Christmas, a little worse for wear from the night before and desperate for the kids to go back to school. But we also find ourselves scribbling lists of New Year’s resolutions – to get fit, lose weight, get stuck in to that pile of paperwork on the kitchen table and, often, to give our working lives a shake up too. The New Year is not just about detox-ing our bodies – it can also be a time to detox our lives. In fact, January is a fantastic time for those of us with children in nursery or full time education for the first time to go back to work, start a new venture, set up our own business or to re-train in something that will get us leaping out of bed every morning!

From a new job or a whole new career, the world is your oyster as a working mum. If your hours are limited by the school run, setting up your own business or taking up a franchise can offer you the opportunity to do something you love while working flexible hours, and the options are limitless. You can choose anything from running a yoga franchise to teaching little ones dance or drama, from teaching Spanish to starting your own Families magazine!

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

Take a look at www.gov.uk/starting-up-a-business, www.workingmums.co.uk, www.mumandcareer.co.uk, www.mumandworking.co.uk and www.mumpreneuruk.com.

You can do it!

Could you be the next editor and owner of Exciting business opportunity for an organised mum or dad!

Work from home, fit your hours around your family and benefit from owning a well-loved established business.

For more details, call Karen on 01386 791422

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Hereford & Worcester

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5 Hereford & Worcester

Education Schools’ Open Days School

Dates

Contact

BREDON SCHOOL

Co-ed 2-18

Age

Tuesday 13th January 10.00 am – 12.00 noon Tuesday 24th February 10.00 am – 12.00 noon

01684 293156 www.bredonschool.org

BROMSGROVE PREPREPARATORY AND NURSERY SCHOOL

Co-ed 2-7

Saturday 17th January Open Morning

01527 579679 or email admissions@bromsgrove-school.co.uk www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk

HEREFORD CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

Co-ed 3-11, 11-16, 16-18 years

Thursday 29th January Sixth Form Open Evening 6.30 pm Tuesday 3rd March Nursery & Junior School Open Morning 9.30 am – 11.30 am

01432 363506 or email admissions@herefordcs.com www.herefordcs.com

KING’S ST ALBAN’S, WORCESTER

Co-ed 4-11

Monday 19th – Friday 23rd January Open Week

01905 354906 or email ksa@ksw.org.uk www.ksw.org.uk

MALVERN ST JAMES

Girls 4-11, 11-16, 16-18

Saturday 7th February Open Morning 10.00 am – 1.30 pm

01684 584624 or email admissions@malvernstjames.co.uk www.malvernstjames.co.uk

Saturday 7th February Open Day Saturday 24th January Open Day Saturday 17th January Open Day

01905 24999 or email: springfield@rgsw.org.uk 01905 451205 or email: vjk@rgsw.org.uk 01905 613391 or email: office@rgsw.org.uk www.rgsw.org.uk

Co-ed 21/2-11 Co-ed 21/2-11 Co-ed 11-18

RGS SPRINGFIELD RGS THE GRANGE RGS WORCESTER THE DOWNS, MALVERN COLLEGE PREP

Co-ed 3-13

Friday 27th February Whole School Open Day 9.30 am – 4.30 pm Saturday 28th February Whole School Open Morning 9.30 am – 12.30 pm

01684 544108 or email registrar@thedowns.malcol.org www.thedowns.malcol.org

WINTERFOLD HOUSE

Co-ed 6 wks - 3yrs, 3-7, 7-13

Saturday 7th February 10.00 am onwards

01562 777234 or email: linda@winterfoldhouse.co.uk www.winterfoldhouse.co.uk

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE INCLUDED IN THE SCHOOLS’ OPEN DAYS, PLEASE EMAIL EDITOR@FAMILIESHEREFORDANDWORCS.CO.UK

If you contact any of these schools, please don’t forget to mention that you saw them mentioned in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine.

5 year-old boys are still catching up with girls in literacy and numeracy According to teachers’ assessment of children’s progress at the end of the Early Years Foundation Stage last year, there is still a gender divide in pupil’s attainment. The level of development for all 5-year-olds was up by 8 percentage points from last year to 60%. In 20132014, fewer boys than girls met the expected levels in writing, reading and maths – 69% of five-year-old girls achieved a good level of development overall, compared with only 52% of boys.

Further reading: http://www.bbc.co.uk/ news/education-29651924

Personal Tutors

in Malvern, Worcestershire and Herefordshire Key Stage 1, 2, 3, GCSE, A level, Common Entrance, Scholarship, IB. Most subjects covered, including English, Maths, Sciences, Languages, Music, IT. For information & enquiries call or email kate@helptuition.co.uk/ 01684 562439/

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January – February 2015

Education Moffats School pupils gain distinctions at spoken English presentations Moffats School, the local preparatory school for children from the age of 3 to 13, once again celebrated success following their English Speaking Board examinations. ESB exams are taken by all Moffats pupils from the age of 7 to 13 years. Senior pupils recently took their exams and were tested on reading at sight, reciting a poem and presenting a talk on a favourite subject.

A diverse range of topics was covered. Head, Mrs Robin McCarthy explains, “We learned that the biggest ever tortilla fed 10,000 people and that a lack of Health & Safety in Shakespeare’s London led to the burning down of the Globe Theatre and so much more... The day was spent celebrating the skills of communication through fascinating talks, reading from a wide variety of books and poetry-speaking of the highest quality.”

James Larkin spoke on the D-Day Landings and Malachy Larkin on combustion engines.

For more information or to arrange a school visit, please call Emma Macvean on 01299 841230 or go to www.moffats.co.uk.

01562 777234

www.winterfoldhouse.co.uk

ARE YOU HAPPY WITH YOUR

CHILD’S EDUCATION?

OPEN DAY

10am SATURDAY 7th FEBRUARY 2015

THEY DESERVE THE BEST… Winterfold House School in the last 3 years: 60 Scholarship Awards 82 Pupils in County Sports Teams 224 ABRSM Music Grades Rated ‘Outstanding’ For Children aged 0-13 years.

January – February 2015

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7 Hereford & Worcester

Education Places available at King’s St Alban’s King’s St Alban’s is a thriving independent co-educational school in the heart of Worcester offering unrivalled facilities for children aged 4 to 11 years. Outstanding teaching and excellent pastoral care makes King’s St Alban’s stand apart from other schools in the area. We nurture the potential of every child in classes which are small enough to ensure consistent attention, but large enough to allow friendships to blossom and competition to remain healthy.

In response to the overwhelming demand for places, a fantastic extension to our Pre-Preparatory Department has been constructed. As a result we are now able to offer further places in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2. In the ISI inspection which was carried out in October, our Early Years provision was deemed to be Outstanding in all areas. Children here “are enthusiastic, inquisitive learners who enjoy coming to school and who make rapid progress.”

If you would like to arrange a visit to see for yourself the many ways that a King’s education can benefit your child, please call 01905 354906 and we will be delighted to show you around. www.ksw.org.uk

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January – February 2015

Education Pupils in council park project Pupils from one of Worcester’s leading independent schools joined forces with Worcester City Council’s parks team earlier this week.

12 Year 8 pupils from The River School visited Barbourne’s Gheluvelt Park on Monday 24 November to help the city’s park wardens with their spring bulb planting.

The pupils have worked with the city’s park wardens over the past few years as part of their Citizenship and Community Service studies.

Carol Parry, Headteacher at The River School said: “Working with organisations such as the city council offers the chance for our students to get involved with their local communities and appreciate the importance of their environment. Parks and open spaces are a vital part of city life and we wholeheartedly embrace our pupils getting involved in such a project.”

Michelle Newell, Community Engagement Supervisor at Worcester City Council said: “We’re really pleased to have had the River School children working with us. It’s a great opportunity to have extra pairs of hands helping with practical work in the park.The children helped the park horticultural team to begin the spring planting.”

The River School, a Christian, co-educational independent day school for pupils and young people aged 3 to 16 years, also includes The Brook Nursery. It was founded by Timothy Crow, who opened the school in 1985 and is situated along The Droitwich Road in Worcester. The school occupies a large Georgian Grade 2 listed building with outbuildings, set in 8 acres of Victorian arboretum, encompassing both woodland and open grass.

Amy Deane, Chloe Baynham, Danni Gough, Julia Kulesa, Alex Vickers and Gareth Rammell

For more information please contact the school on 01905 457047. www.riverschool.co.uk

Learn to Read in 4 Weeks for FREE* with Reading Eggs!

Full of educationally sound, fun and interactive activities, Reading Eggs focuses on the most fundamental skill needed in school: reading. Children from 3 to 7 years of age, or older children struggling with reading, will enjoy the huge variety of reading lessons, activities and games that make up the Reading Eggs programme. Reading Eggspress continues the reading adventure by taking children to a brand new world designed for 7–13 year olds, focusing on comprehension and grammar and provides a unique learning environment where students’ can improve their English language and comprehension skills in a way that is exciting and relevant.

Sign up for a special 4WEEK FREE trial* by registering your child at www.readingeggs.co.uk/jan15hw.

Registration is quick, easy and FREE! *Free trial only available to new customers who sign up at the above address.

Not applicable for schools.

January – February 2015

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9 Hereford & Worcester

How to choose the best nursery for your child

By Hannah Hunter For many parents, nurseries are the ideal choice for childcare.

They offer working hours, with a lot of flexibility – you can choose hours to suit you, from a few half days to full working weeks. Nurseries give children the opportunity to socialise with groups of other children and adults. They can also give a reassuring continuity of care, with an assigned key worker.

Your child may be at the same setting from babyhood, right until they start at school.

Finding the right nursery can be a difficult and stressful process.

The first time you hand over full-time care of your precious offspring to someone else is always going to be emotional, so you want to be absolutely sure that you have made the right choice for all of you.

Different types of nursery It’s important to research what’s available as early as possible to find the best fit. This webpage www.gov.uk/find-nursery-schoolplace directs you to your local council’s website, which will list all Ofsted-checked registered childcare providers.

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

Montessori and Steiner nurseries – Montessori philosophy informs how their schools are run, they are seen as the originators of child centred learning, and there is a focus on developing each child’s independence and skills. Focusing on creative play, Steiner schools don’t believe in any formal teaching until the age of 6.

Read more here: www.familiesonline.co.uk/LOCATIONS/Chiltern/ Articles2/Nursery-and-preschool/What-are-all-the-different-types-ofnursery/(language)/eng-GB 10

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January – February 2015

© Petro Feketa - Fotolia.com

Nurseries

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

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

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

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

Your own needs! There might be a wonderful nursery half an hour drive away from you, but consider how will both of your tiredness levels be after this daily journey – would you be better to find somewhere closer that is a good fit? Equally the most convenient, say a work-place nursery, may not be the best for your child.

At Abberley Hall we very much encourage all children to enjoy a sense of independence as they begin their educational journey. We believe that a child’s early years at school are formative and critical to their future school career and teach the children to develop respect for others, combined with self-discipline and a joy of learning.

Emma Green, Head of Pre-Prep & Nursery Bromsgrove School’s nursery and pre-preparatory section is where the educational foundation is laid for pupils. They learn not simply to read and write and paint and operate computers: they learn to live by the values of Bromsgrove School.

They learn to care and contribute.

From outdoor learning areas to computer suites, the children of the Pre-Prep have wonderful facilities in which to learn and play. It may not quite be Narnia, but if there’s a finer school of its kind in the country, you would be hard pressed to find it. We welcome individual visits so please get in touch with our admissions team if you would like to find out more about Bromsgrove’s very own Narnia.

Jacqui Deval-Reed, Headmistress of Prep and Pre-Prep School January – February 2015

Our aim within our Nursery setting at RGS The Grange is to provide all the children with an excellent quality of learning and care experience, which will set them on the right path for a brighter future. The environment is a warm and inviting area, specifically designed to enhance children’s learning and well-being. The expansive outdoor area (and Forest School) within a 48 acre setting, allows children the freedom to learn safely using a mixture of imagination and dexterity. Transition through each area of Nursery and Pre-School and finally through to school is handled sensitively and carefully planned for each child.

Gareth Hughes, Headmaster, RGS The Grange Hereford Cathedral Junior School and Nursery provide an outstanding education in the heart of the city. Within our beautiful, tranquil setting, you will find a warm and inviting atmosphere where children make friends with ease, enjoy their learning and develop confidence.

With our small class sizes, specialist staff and strong pastoral care, we are able to respond to the individual needs of every child. Our aim is to both support and challenge, giving each child the chance to do their best. Excellent teaching is at the heart of what we do and with a strong reputation for Sport, Music, Drama and Art, we encourage every child to make the most of the wide range of opportunities on offer. Traditional values, such as good manners and consideration for others, are also developed within our safe and caring environment.

Above all, it is important to us that our children are happy.

You are warmly invited to visit and see for yourself and I look forward to meeting you soon.

Chris Wright, Head of Junior School www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

11 Hereford & Worcester

© Robert Kneschke - Fotolia.com

Nurseries

What to expect from your child’s nursery education We’ve all heard about the importance of early years education. Apparently a child who has gone to pre-school has more chance of getting better exam results and ultimately earning higher wages, according to new research undertaken by academics at the Institute of Education.

By Hannah Hunter

So you send your child to nursery, in the hope that it will improve their education prospects. But what are they actually going to do there all day?

They’re not going to tell you! Teenagers struggle enough to recall what’s happened a few hours before, so you can’t expect detailed information from a 3-year-old.

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To give you some idea of what will happen, you can look at the legal requirements for nurseries in the UK. The Early Years Foundation Stage framework [in England, Scottish guidelines are ‘curriculum for excellence’ http://www.scotborders.gov.uk/info/857/ curriculum/333/curriculum_for_excellence] is a document that sets out the statutory welfare and developmental goals for children 5 years and under. It gives guidelines for safety and learning and development for all early years providers – all nurseries, childminders, playgroups, preschools and reception classes

The EYFS explained The EYFS framework document can seem daunting, but it’s there to ensure that all children receive a suitable level of care.

It sets out the legal requirements that keep your child safe and promote their welfare.

This includes: • • • •

Basic checks, such as staff security checks Setting the number of children each member of staff can look after Ensuring the facilities and equipment are safe and suitable Checking the quality of the environment, e.g. recommending access to outdoor space

It also covers the seven areas of learning and development. These are: • • • • • •

Personal, social and emotional development Communication, language and literacy Problem solving, reasoning and literacy Knowledge and understanding of the world Physical development Creative development Dance in Herefordshire and Worcestershire • Mini Movers • Dance Clubs • Youth Dance • Contemporary • Urban Dance • Choreography • After school clubs

dancefest.co.uk

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Nurseries

The activities they will do at nursery, to support their learning and development will be unique to your child’s needs. They will learn by playing and exploring, being active, and through creative and critical thinking which takes place both indoors and outside. There is a requirement for ‘continuous provision’, which in layman’s terms means that there needs to be high quality resources and activities available all of the time, so your child can learn through play in lots of different ways.

Assessment The EYFS also lays out guidelines for assessment of your child’s progress.

Soon after your child turns 2, you will get a written summary of how your child is progressing in communication and language, physical development and personal, social and emotional development. Any areas where they need extra help or support will be highlighted at this stage.

The next written assessment will come when your child is 5, usually at the end of their reception year, which is the last year they are classed as being in early years education. This will include assessment of skills such as writing their name, reading and talking about a favourite book, speaking to people your child is not so familiar with or Dance Classes for Young Children their understanding of numbers. The school will give you a at Cecilia Hall Dance Centre, Malvern: progress report including some of this information.

How will I know how my child is doing?

Your child will have a ‘key person’ at nursery, pre-school or reception class, who is responsible for putting together information on how they are developing. This person will be your main point of contact, and it’s important that you work together and communicate well. Any worries about your child should be discussed with their key worker, and they will be able to build on what your child is learning at home.

Useful links

Look at the full document here: www.gov.uk/government/ publications/early-years-foundation-stage-framework--2 For a detailed parent’s guide to the EYFS go to: www.foundationyears.org.uk/files/2014/08/EYFS_Parents_Guideamended.pdf For more general advice for parents: www.ndna.org.uk/parents www.ndna.org.uk National Day Nurseries Association offer expert advice and information for parents looking for childcare.

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

Mondays and Fridays 2pm Pre-school Ballet Tuesdays 4pm Grade 1 Ballet Wednesdays 4pm Primary Ballet Saturdays 10.15am Pre-Primary Ballet 11.00am Primary Ballet, 11.45 Grade 1 Ballet

Classes at Bishops Frome Village Centre: Saturdays 10.00am Primary Ballet, 10.30am Grade 1 Ballet, 11.00am Tap and Modern, 11.40am Grade 2 Ballet Many more classes available/Plus Tap and Modern Jazz Telephone 01684 573663 or 07525 057492 or email ceciliahalldance@live.co.uk for information and to enrol.

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13 Hereford & Worcester

Ask the expert “I want a divorce and need to sort out matrimonial financial and property issues. Can I do all of this myself using the internet?”

By Mandeep Clair The internet provides access to a wealth of information and documents at the click of a mouse and is undeniably a powerful resource. But even the internet has its shortcomings.

Divorce and the resolution of financial issues is one area of law where tailor-made, face to face, and sympathetic legal advice can be vital. Personally seeing the client and considering various documentation may allow the lawyer to get to the root of the problems and properly understand the case and the fundamental concerns.

The resolution of financial and property matters upon relationship breakdown can be complicated and time consuming. The court can exercise wide discretion in resolving such issues and it is really only by having full knowledge of the facts and figures that proper and precise legal advice can be given. Conversely, posting questions on internet forums, for example, is likely to elicit limited general advice without full regard to your exact situation.

The terms of your financial settlement may have far reaching ramifications which could affect the rest of your life. There may be all kinds of highly relevant issues which you may not have appreciated and which may only come to light by seeing a solicitor across a table. This could lead to a solicitor formulating imaginative solutions which cater for your particular needs and priorities.

Instructing a solicitor is not necessarily expensive. You might want to obtain just some initial advice on a fixed fee basis and some solicitors offer this. A good solicitor will also encourage you to undertake straightforward tasks in your case yourself rather than making a charge for doing so, and online resources can be very helpful for such purposes.

Funny Blood Reloved Local Mum, Ruby Edwards, founded Funny Blood in 2009 when her son was diagnosed with a number of Platelet Function Disorders and Thrombocytopenia. Since then, she’s campaigned to raise awareness of the little-known condition.

Ruby’s latest campaign Funny Blood Reloved: Rehoming toys to BCH is a simple yet fantastic idea! She’s asking children and parents alike to have a sort out and donate unwanted toys – which must be in good working order, with no fur or fabric – to Funny Blood. The toys will then be donated to the Haemophilia Unit at Birmingham Children’s Hospital to be Reloved!

The children visiting the Unit often have to spend a lot of time there, receiving sometimes uncomfortable, painful treatment and then need to take a while to recover. The toys at the Unit are enjoyed by the children and are often loved so much, they’re taken home for comfort. Funny Blood aims to replenish and maintain the amount of toys at the Unit, so all of the children can have the happiest time possible.

Usually, only new toys are allowed in hospitals like Birmingham Children’s, but as the Haemophilia Unit is an Outpatient Clinic, the rules are slightly different. Ruby’s already launched the Reloved campaign so, if you’d like to help, check out www.funnyblood.co.uk, like, share, follow, retweet or simply chat about it to your friends so they can support the Reloved campaign too! http://www.funnyblood.co.uk/reloved/ https://twitter.com/FunnyBloodTweet https://www.facebook.com/FunnyBloodPage/

About the author: Mandeep Clair is a mediator, collaborative lawyer and an experienced family solicitor at South East London Solicitors Grant Saw. www.grantsaw.com/

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Hereford & Worcester

January – February 2015

What’s On

What’s On THEATRE

Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1AX 01527 577330, www.artrix.co.uk The wind in the willows Join Mole, Ratty, Badger and the boisterous, bumptious, loud and lovable Toad as the adventure of a lifetime unravels on the riverbank. Watch out for the dangerous weasels, stoats and ferrets from the wild wood along the way!

Sunday 25th January 7.30 pm, Thursday 11th 1.00 and 7.30 pm and Friday 12th December 7.00 pm £15.00 adult, £9.00 under 16s The Basil Brush show Britain’s most loveable fox is back on the road along with his TV chum Mr Stephen Together they will take you on a journey of laughs, storytelling and song in a brand new specially written ‘live’ stage show packed with fun and excitement.

Tuesday 17th February 11.00 am and 2.30 pm £14.00 adult, £12.00 under 16s, £42.00 family ticket Evesham Arts Centre Theatre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4QH 01386 48883, www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Cinderella A traditional Pantomime with songs and dance, slapstick comedy and romance. Wednesday 21st, Friday 23rd – Sunday 25th January 7.30 pm plus Sat & Sun matinees 2.30 pm £10.00 Malvern Theatres, Grange Road, Malvern, Worcs, WR14 3HB 01684 892277, www.malvern-theatres.co.uk Room on the broom Tuesday 20th 1.30 pm, Wednesday – Saturday 24th January 10.30 am and Thursday 22nd 4.30 pm also £12.32 Norbury Theatre, Norbury House, Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8ED 01905 770154, www. norburytheatre.freeserve.co.uk Sleeping Beauty This version of the well-loved tale reports to be the actual true story told by Sleeping Beauty herself! Friday 9th – Sunday 11th, Thursday 15th - Sunday 18th, Thursday 22nd – Saturday 24th January 2.30 pm (sat and sun also) and 7.30 pm Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org Cinder – Ella Join veteran Krazy Kat performer Kinny Gardner in imaginative silliness with inventive puppetry, sign language, tunes from Rossini’s opera and even an aria. Tuesday 17th February 2.30 pm £6.00, £5.00 under 16 January – February 2015

Disney High School Musical Pershore Operatic and Dramatic Youth Section bring this well known and loved story of teenage life in an American High School. Friday 20th February 7.00 pm – Saturday 21st February 1.30 and 7.00 pm £11.00, £9.00 The Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Just Dance A dance extravangza with amateur dance troupes from round the country. Saturday 17th January 7.30 pm £12.75 Puss in Boots – Starlight school of dance Step into a world of magic and dance and follow the adventures of Puss in Boots as she helps poor Tom, in his quest to win the hand in marriage of the lovely Princess Alicia. Thursday 29th – Saturday 31st January 7.15 pm and 2.15 pm sat matinee £12.25, £10.25

Please check with the venue in case details have changed and also please note that with some venues, it is cheaper to pay in advance on-line.

Please call Karen on 01386 791422 to book your advertising space for future issues.

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The Return of Neverland – a new musical Over the last 40 years, the magic in Neverland has rapidly decreased leaving Peter Pan and the lost boys grounded and Captain Hook and his crew docked. A secret is revealed that may not only save the Island but create more power than Neverland has ever seen before. Tuesday 17th – Saturday 21st February £15.75, £13.75, £11.75, £48.00 family The Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED 01905 611427, www.worcesterlive.co.uk Sam’s Sausage Spectacular With the party about to begin, will Police Constable Sam Sampson be able to find the Superintendent’s stolen sausages in time to feed all the guests and save the day? Saturday 7th February 10.30 and 11.45 am £2.50 The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555, www.courtyard.org.uk Dreaming in Code An explosive, visceral double bill of dance from local dance company, 2Faced Dance.

Thursday 15th January 7.30pm A real Fairy Tale This is a fun and exciting show full of comedy, magic and shadow puppetry. Saturday 24th January 2.00 pm £8.00, £7.00 concs, Milk Shake Tour The show’s line up includes Little Princess, Bananas in Pyjamas, Noddy and Tessie Bear, Pip from Pip Ahoy! Bello from Jelly Jamm, Chloe from Chloe’s Closet, Tommy and Tallulah from Tickety Toc, Toby and Dolores from Toby’s Travelling Circus and Milkshake’s very own Milkshake Monkey! Saturday 7th February 1.00 and 3.30 pm £12.50, £10.50, £42.00 family

Roller Disco Suitable for ages 8-12 • Roller skates and wrist guards provided • Great selection of music • Marshalled skate • Tuition available Last Friday of every month – 6.30 to 8pm At: Peopleton Village Hall, WR10 2EG Price: £5 per child, £2 for skate hire (Skates to be booked in advance) Booking essential as limited spaces available Contact us via email sales@kosport.co.uk or 01905 840396

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What’s On OMG Herefordshire A showcase of the finest young musical talent in Herefordshire hand-picked to perform to their home crowd. Sunday 8th February 6.30pm The Mighty Prince and other Fabulous Fables Two performers, five stories and a host of bugs, birds, animals and magical creatures bring to life two thousand year old stories using a happy mix of rhyme, movement, live music, song and puppetry. Saturday 14th February 11.00 am and 2.00 pm Sleeping Beauty A traditional pantomime with plenty of exciting twists and turns. Wednesday 18th – Saturday 21st February Puss in Boots Would you trust a talking cat? You never know, he might turn you from a pauper to a prince just like the hero of this story, brought to vivid life on the incredible sloping stage

by Patrick Lynch from Cbeebies.

Saturday 21st February 2.00 pm £8.00, £7.00 Pirates of Penzance Fun for the whole family with the Pirate King and his crazy piratical crew, the modern Major-General and his daughters.

Wednesday 25th – Saturday 28th February 7.30pm (Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm) The Market Theatre, Market Street, Ledbury, HR8 2AQ www.themarketthetheatre.com Babes in the wood A traditional pantomime. Thursday 22nd – Sunday 25th, Wednesday 28th – Saturday 31st January 7.30 pm and 2.30 pm (sat and sun) £10.00, £5.00 child

MUSEUMS Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, Worcs, B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Bleak Midwinter Living History Weekend Experience how our ancestors survived winter in the past.

You can see how seasonal food was prepared to keep the cold at bay and have a go at traditional pastimes to help banish the winter blues. Saturday 17th – Sunday 18th January

EVENTS National Trust 0844 800 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW Tel: 01905 371006 THE COVENTRY CODE QUEST Have fun deciphering the clues that lead you around the park on this half-term trail for children. Price includes a prize.

Saturday 14th – Sunday 22nd February 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £1.50 per trail with prize

Pershore Tennis Centre, Avon Bank, Pershore, WR10 3JP Tel: 01386 556677 Two ex-Davis Cup players, Danny Sapsford and Luke Milligan are giving their time for FREE to come to Pershore. Tickets are available for a variety of coaching sessions that they will be running followed by a fastest serve competition with radar gun and then Steve & Mike from Pershore Tennis Centre will take on the pros in an exhibition match!

Saturday 17th January

Half Term Activities Have a go fun, crafts and a themed trail. Tuesday 17th – Thursday 19th February Waking the Windmill & Bleak Midwinter Living History Weekend The Museum’s Windmill will be sailed for the first time in 2015. There will also be the chance to see the original footage of the saving of the Windmill in 1969 and bread-making demonstrations in the Toll House. Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd February

ATTRACTIONS Witley Court and Gardens, Worcester Road, Great Witley, Worcester, WR6 6JT 01905 726311, www.english-heritage.org.uk

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Empire Explorers Tales of derring-do and find out all about the wonders of the world through the eyes of the Victorian explorer. Wednesday 18th – Thursday 19th February 11.00 am – 3.00 pm

If you would like to feature in the What’s On Section in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine and online, please email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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