Families Hereford & Worcester Issue 41 September/October 2016

Hereford & Worcester

Issue No 41 September/October 2016 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Education Clubs and Classes What’s On

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Really useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in Hereford & Worcester

Editor’s Letter

Humphrey’s Pyjama Week Helps Raise Funds

Dear readers As the summer holidays fade into memory, we must all get used to the return of the mad morning school rush...

This issue we include tips to help ease the transition for those starting in reception. We give advice on the best way to approach school open evenings.

If you are looking for a school for your child, then you may be interested in the various open days at some of the leading independent schools in the area.

Next time: Christmas!

Diane Clifford.

Editor,

Next issue: Nov/Dec Booking deadline: Friday 7 October

Families Hereford & Worcester Tel: 01684 770566 Email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk Like us on Facebook FamiliesHandW

Follow us on Twitter @FamiliesHW

Humphrey’s Pyjama Week returns from 3-7 October – with a chance for nurseries, playgroups, primary schools and mother and toddler groups to get their PJs on and raise money for The Children’s Trust.

For a voluntary donation of £2, youngsters, staff and parents can wear their favourite pyjamas for one day during the week and organise themed events, such as best dressed competitions and slumber party games. Money raised will go towards research, rehabilitation, care and support for children with brain injuries and their families.

Participants who register at thechildrenstrust.org.uk/humphrey will receive an event pack which includes Humphrey stickers, posters, a certificate for each child and a story booklet. Families has had a bit of a sneak preview of the pack, and it is full of activities such as Hide an Seek quizzes, maze games and colouring activities – perfect for entertaining little ones Register now to get a fundraising pack and start planning a week of pyjama fun! thechildrenstrust.org.uk/humphrey or email: humphrey@thechildrenstrust.org.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk Circulation: 22,000 copies of Families Hereford & 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 & Worcester is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company.

All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hereford & Worcester are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.’ Print: The Manson Group, Reynolds House, 8 Porters Wood, Valley Road Industrial Estate, St Albans. AL3 6PZ. Tel: 01727 848 440.

Star Cast For Palace Theatre Reach 44,000 local readers.

Contact Diane on 01684 770566 if you are interested in advertising in

Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine

The Redditch, Palace Theatre’s traditional pantomime this year is Beauty And The Beast, running from 5 - 31 December. It stars Sam Attwater (Eastenders and Dancing On Ice champion) who will bring a touch of swagger and cut a dashing figure in the role of Gaston, the local lothario and wooer of our heroine Belle. www.redditchpalacetheatre. co.uk

New Hope For Math Studies A new system for teaching maths will sweep the nation, says the Department for Education. The Department has pledged £41 million for over 8,000 schools (50% of all UK schools) to start to introduce Asian style maths tuition. Shanghai, Singapore and Hong Kong lead the world in maths performance, using a system called maths mastery. Those using the scheme have been shown to perform better than their peers. The system means that teachers spend a lot of time on one topic to make sure that children understand it fully. Children also discover how problems relate to their everyday life, so they are given context.

The system was created by educational psychologists and specialists.

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Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566

September - October 2016

Ghostly Goings On At Arley Station

News & Views Finger Licking Is Good For You It may drive parents mad but it has been suggested that children who regularly suck their thumbs or bite their nails are less prone to developing allergies. The results of a study published in the New Zealand journal Pediatrics suggest that being exposed to germs at an early age can help boost the child’s immune system.

Daring visitors will find themselves whisked away on a thrilling journey, packed with spooky spectres and ghastly ghouls as the Severn Valley Railway’s Ghost Trains return this October. A whole host of ghosts, ghouls, witches and wizards will be descending on the Railway for some fiendish fun, from 27 – 29 October, when passengers can brave an exhilarating night-time ride through the Severn Valley countryside. For more information: www.svr.co.uk.

Earn Extra Cash!

Families Hereford & Worcester magazine is looking for distributors in the Droitwich, Malvern and Hereford

areas. Email for details to Diane at: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

FAMILY AD_Layout 1 27/05/2016 12:49 Page 1

The study followed 1,000 people and assessed them between the ages of five and 32. It found that suckers and biters had fewer allergies to things like house dust mites and pet dander at the age of 13. However, the habits seemed to have little or no effect on the incidence of developing hay-fever or asthma.

A spokesperson from Allergy UK, said: “research that has been carried out in other countries also adds weight to this theory of the role the environment and gut microbiota play in shaping an individual’s potential to develop a food allergy.”

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To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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Ed’s Reading Room

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Autumn book selection. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free book review website www.EdontheWeb.com.

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

Sophie’s Squeaky Surprise by Holly Webb (Scholastic £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘Sophie isn’t happy about moving away from home especially to a new country and a new school where the children aren’t very nice to her. But when she meets Josephine, a friendly and very furry guinea pig, she learns to stand up to the mean children at school. With her super new friend and with all the delights that living in Paris brings, will Sophie be able to settle into her exciting new life?’

Claude Going for Gold

by Alex T Smith (Hodder £8.99)

Fizzlebert Stump and the Great Supermarket Showdown by A F Harrold (Bloomsbury £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Poor old Fizz! The circus has been sold and the new owner wants everyone to work in his supermarket. When all you know is flying around on a trapeze or spinning plates it is a great shock to have to spend your day stacking shelves and carrying heavy bags for old people. Is this curtains for Fizz or will he be able to find a way to save the circus and the life he loves?’

Binny Bewitched by Hilary McKay

ED SAYS: ‘Claude and his best friend Sir Bobblysock are off on their latest adventure.

They discover a special competition at the local sports centre and are tremendously excited, even more so when they are asked to take part but this might not be as simple as they first thought. When some thieves try to steal the Gold Cup, can Claude run fast enough to catch them?’

(Hodder £12.99) ED SAYS: ‘It is a few years since Binny’s family moved to Cornwall but they are still unpacking boxes. They were very lucky to be left their house by Binny’s aunt but nevertheless money – or rather lack of it – remains a huge problem. So when Binny comes across a large sum of money will it be the answer to their problems? Another thing troubling Binny is their strange new neighbour – so strange that Binny suspects her of being a witch.’

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 can contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com. See Maggie’s latest ebooks at www.WalkWalk.co.uk.

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With over 120 centres across the UK, head online to find your nearest centre.

CALL 01483 447 414 TO BOOK YOUR FREE TRIAL SESSION TODAY.

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Families Hereford & Worcester

ACADEMIC PROGRESS CONFIDENCE NEW SKILLS LOVE OF LEARNING

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Awards 2015

September - October 2016

Education

A Prep School For Everyone at RGS

The RGS family of schools offers a choice of two ‘Excellent’ and ‘Outstanding’ Prep Schools: (ISI Inspection report 2015).

RGS Springfield in the heart of the City of Worcester with beautiful grounds and RGS The Grange set in 50 acres of grounds three miles to the North of the City, near Fernhill Heath. Whichever leading Prep School you choose for your child, an outstanding academic education awaits children from 2 to 11 years of age, plus an enormous range of co-curricular opportunities, and 8am until 6pm wrap-around care.

RGS Springfield is passionate about developing each individual child by ensuring that teaching enables all pupils to attain their full potential. Small class sizes and a nurturing ethos means that the school excels at delivering a challenging, individualised and exciting curriculum. Children are encouraged to question and take risks in their learning, and thus to become independent and creative learners.

Tucked away in the beautiful grounds of Britannia Square, with over two acres of playing fields, the school feels like a village primary school with the convenience of city facilities.

RGS The Grange is full of happy, confident and successful children who are inspired by a dedicated team of staff sharing a wonderful sense of community. Children receive an outstanding education within the beautiful 50-acre site. A full programme of sporting and co-curricular activities and senior school standard facilities are on offer for all.

The school’s philosophy states that ‘happy children succeed’.

This success is seen in the classroom, on the sports field, in the music department and during varied enrichment opportunities. The variety of experiences that children enjoy helps them to mature into confident, polite, successful and happy individuals. For more information: www.rgsw.org.uk

Open Days

Friday 30 September 2.00pm - 7.00pm Saturday 1 October 10.00am - 1.00pm

01299 851 256 office@cutnallgreenfirst.worcs.sch.uk www.cutnallgreenschool.co.uk Rural school. Small class sizes. Extensive grounds. Awarded an Outstanding from SIAMs. 3+ years Early Years unit. Wraparound care.

Cutnall Green First School, School Lane, Cutnall Green WR9 0PH September - October 2016

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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Education

A new adventure: starting school is an exciting step for your child

Tips For Starting School A child’s first few years of school are vital in nurturing your child, starting them on an adventure of educational discovery and laying foundations for their life ahead – so starting fulltime school in the Reception class is an important and exciting step. Here are some top tips to make sure that you are fully prepared and ready to enjoy this new experience.

independently, washing hands, changing – putting on their coat, shoes and PE kit by themselves. Also, don’t forget to get them into a good routine a few days before school starts – for example they might need an earlier bedtime and waking up time! Other skills such as recognising and writing their name are also useful.

By Dr Carolyn Shelley

6. Help your child make a holiday diary or something to take into school on the first day – sticking in pictures, tickets and photos from your favourite holiday activities. They will love to rush into school to show these to their new teacher!

1. Talk about starting school with your child and create positive feelings about their next step. You can get some wonderful books from the library which describe many of the exciting activities they will experience but also address concerns or prompt your child to ask any questions they may have been thinking or worrying about – however small these may seem to us, it is important to talk them through.

2. You will probably have visited your child’s school, have met the teacher, and hopefully your child will also have had a settling in visit. As it is likely to feel a long time since this visit to your child, remind them of all the activities they enjoyed doing most so that they can look forward to doing them again.

3. If you can, talk to other parents with children at the same school to gain top tips in preparation for the big day – it will also help to discuss any worries or questions you may have.

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7. If possible meet up with other children in the summer holidays who will be starting at the same school. It is always good if your child is greeted by a friend on the first day and this will help them settle in quickly.

8. Finally, on the morning itself, have everything ready to make it an easy start to the day – and when you arrive at school, keep your goodbye sweet but short, reminding them to have a good time and that you will be back to pick them up later.

Stringing it out for too long can end in tears which otherwise wouldn’t happen! Although this can be an emotional time for you, try not to let them see it so that they can go into the class happy, confident and ready for action!

4. Involve your child in the exciting preparations for school for example choosing their school uniform and having fun trying it on. You can also buy a new pencil case, school bag and lunchbox – all these are very exciting and help your child feel positive about their next step.

Starting School is a very exciting time, especially the first few days and you will be excited to hear all about their experiences.

Make talking regularly about school a good habit - being involved in your child’s education from the start will help them develop confidence as they share their learning journey with you. Have a wonderful start to school!

5. Get school ready by praising and practising their independence in important areas – going to the loo

Dr Carolyn Shelley is headmistress of Dean Close Pre-Preparatory School, Cheltenham.

Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566

September - October 2016

Education

Find Out About The King’s Experience Sport and Music both play important roles in school life.

King’s Worcester has one of the finest settings of any city school in the country. It borders the River Severn in the heart of Worcester and looks across to the Malvern Hills. Located adjacent to the Cathedral in an oasis of calm, away from the sound and sight of traffic, and yet two minutes walk from the pedestrianised city centre and within easy walking distance of train and bus stations.

Sporting facilities are excellent and include our own swimming pool, boat house and recently opened new sports and performing arts centre complemented with an extensive range of playing fields.

The senior school aims to provide an exceptional educational experience looking after both the educational and pastoral needs of each individual child, aiming to help all pupils to achieve their best academically and instilling confidence in a changing world.

R EG

A newly launched website will give an insight in to the ‘King’s Experience,’ however, it is best to visit on one of our open mornings to gain an understanding of what King’s can offer your child.

For more information: www.ksw.org.uk

Independent co-education for ages 2 to 18

ORNIENSIS VIG

IA SCHOLA

Excellent exam successes have once again placed King’s at the top of the local league tables, with an A Level pass rate of 100% and 98% of GCSEs achieved in grades from A* to C.

The school boasts three orchestras, three choirs, a wind band and other ensemble groups. This, in addition to our connection with the Cathedral, ensures that musical pupils of all abilities have ample opportunities to exhibit their talents.

KING’S HAWFORD (2 to 11) Tel: 01905 451292

KING’S ST ALBAN’S (4 to 11) Tel: 01905 354906

KING’S WORCESTER (11 to 18) Tel: 01905 721742

IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY ‘Baby and Toddler Swim and Play’ Starts Friday 9 September

Saturday 12 November King’s St Alban’s Open Morning

Saturday 15 October Senior School Open Morning

Saturday 1 October King’s Hawford Open Morning

Saturday 10 December King’s St Alban’s Taster Morning

Saturday 19 November Sixth Form Open Morning

Confidence in a changing world September - October 2016

www.ksw.org.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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Education

A Happy Vibrant School Bromsgrove School’s results are impressive, but Bromsgrove is much more than a place to get good grades, it prides itself on being a happy school where children of all ages can thrive both academically and outside of the classroom. A recent parental survey supported this with over 97% saying their child was happy or very happy at School. The 2016 ISI inspection rated Bromsgrove as excellent in every category. Catering for 1600 pupils aged 3 -18 on three sites, the School is a small global community – a place to live, work and make friends for life.

Bromsgrove has a vibrant arts scene with numerous opportunities for pupils to perform both large and small projects. A group of Sixth Form pupils performed their adaptation of King Lear at the Edinburgh fringe in 2015 and more recently a large cast performed Sweeney Todd at the local Artrix Theatre to great acclaim and Year 9 and 10 pupils performed Patrick Marber’s The Musicians at Birmingham’s REP theatre. A new performing arts centre with a concert hall and multiple rehearsal areas is currently under construction, to be completed by September 2017.

There is considerable strength, too, in sports and a large number of representatives at county, regional and national level. The School’s U18 rugby team were winners of the NatWest School’s trophy in 2015 and 2016. The school runs an extensive activity programme with optional Saturday activities when pupils may select from a diverse range of recreational and academic activities. www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk

F L A I R

•

D I S C I P L I N E

•

A C A D E M I C

R I G O U R

REGI

BROMSGROVE SCHOOL FOUNDED 1553

considering Bromsgrove? come and see the School at work For entry to Prep and Senior Schools in 2017, we will be holding small group open school events on Wednesday mornings - booking is essential.

Please contact Admissions for information, or book your place via the website: www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk

ISI Inspection 2016 - Excellent in every category Oustanding results at IB and A level Academic excellence coupled with a wealth of sporting and extra-curricular opportunities.

Co-educational, Day & Boarding.

930 pupils aged 13 - 18, 500 pupils aged 7 - 13, 500 boarders Tel: 01527 579679

Email: admissions@bromsgrove-school.co.uk

www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk 8

Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566

September - October 2016

Education

A First Class Education The Downs Malvern is an outstanding day, weekly, flexi- and full-boarding Prep School for girls and boys from 3 – 13 years. It is set within its own impressive 55-acre campus on the western edge of the Malvern Hills and is associated with Malvern College. Children benefit from excellent teaching alongside superb extracurricular, boarding and sports facilities, including a multi-million pound sports hall, art studio, IT suite and all-weather sports pitch.

Tonia Peters

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

Educational Psychologist (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.

A first-class education is delivered in a secure, caring and extremely well-resourced environment and all children are encouraged to do their very best academically, creatively, physically, socially and spiritually so that they may achieve beyond their greatest expectations.

Established 1992 Fully Qualified Instructors Specialised Classes 4 – 16 years Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced

Train with Sensei Jags Shoker, 3rd Dan

To support the academic programme, there are many extra-curricular activities.

Breadth and diversity are crucial to the philosophy of The Downs Malvern and therefore all children take part in the school’s Hobbies programme on Saturday mornings. They are given the opportunity to diversify their interests and experiences in activities such as cookery, drama, pottery, photography, gardening, fitness training, computer club, chess, rambling and a range of sports.

Furthermore, ‘Forest School’ for the Pre-Prep at The Downs Malvern, enables children to lead their own learning, which arises through curiosity and exploration, with many opportunities using multi-sensory approaches. It offers an abundance of opportunities to develop emotional and social skills alongside cognitive development. Forest school teaches the children to be resilient and also enables learners to develop a holistic understanding of their setting and wider world.

For more information: www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk

Monday: St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Droitwich Spa 5.30 – 6.30 pm Tuesday: Woodrush High School, Worcester 6.00 – 7.00 pm Wed & Fri: The Parish Centre, Barnt Green 5.30 – 6.30 pm Friday: Parkside Middle School, Bromsgrove 3.40 – 4.40 pm Saturday: St Peters RC First School, Special Bromsgrove 9.15–10.15 am

offer 5 FREE lessons

www.kombatkids.com 01543 473408 / 07730 899722 register@kombatkids.com

Call 01684 770566 if you are interested in advertising

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To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

9

Education

Abberley Hall School

Nursery, Pre-Prep & Prep Boarding & Day School for 2-13 years

Let the adventure begin…

Mr Will Lockett, Headmaster e. will.lockett@abberleyhall.co.uk t. 01299 896275 Abberley Hall, Worcestershire WR6 6DD www.abberleyhall.co.uk

Abberley Hall Open Morning Saturday 15 October 10.30am

A Magical Setting

Abberley Hall School is a happy and vibrant co-educational school for children aged 2-13. Children attend our Pre-Prep and Nursery up to the age of 7, and from 8 years old they join the boarding and day Prep School.

Set in the heart of the Worcestershire countryside, Abberley's school grounds extend across 90 acres and allow our children a real sense of freedom. Whether it is in Forest School, our Outdoor Learning area, playing sport or participating in after school activities, Abberley pupils spend a great deal of their childhood outdoors.

Small class sizes, high quality classroom teaching and committed pastoral care ensure that at Abberley the teachers really know and understand the children as individuals. We believe that learning should be an exciting experience and we strive to be truly innovative whilst maintaining a strong academic ethos.

Abberley enables children to build life-long friendships and prepares them for success in a global and changing world. It is a special place with a certain magic that we think can be best summed up as ‘Gumboots and Greek’; that is to say, making the most of a fantastic setting, but with academic rigour. We would love you to come and experience the warmth and politeness of the children at our Open Morning on Saturday 15 October at 10.30am. www.abberleyhall.co.uk.

The Heart Of Winterfold

THE COME AND SEE US WINTERFOLD AT WORK AND WAY AT PLAY Independent Day School for boys and girls aged 0 - 13

individual visits welcome

01562 777234 www.winterfoldhouse.co.uk

Winterfold House School, Chaddesley Corbett, Worcestershire DY10 4PW

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Families Hereford & Worcester

At the heart of Winterfold's ethos lies a very genuine concern for the happiness and success of every child. We aim to provide outstanding education at all levels so that every pupil's academic potential is achieved.

We place great emphasis upon discovering and nurturing the special talents of each child and provide a huge range of extra-curricular activities and sports which allow every boy and girl to find some area in which he or she can shine.

Winterfold is a non-selective prep school for children up to the age of 13, taking babies into the Woodhouse nursery from the age of 3 months. Despite being non-selective, Winterfold is proud that all its Year 8 leavers go on to top local independent schools including Bromsgrove, Kings’ Worcester, RGS Worcester, Malvern College, Shrewsbury, Malvern St James and many more. This year all the leavers gained places at their first choice schools with many winning scholarships and exhibitions.

We welcome individual visits – please contact the School office on 01562 777234 to make an appointment.

For more information: www.winterfold.co.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566

September - October 2016

Education

Working Together With Schools or chances of Oxbridge. They simply won’t know.

Don’t get sidetracked Parents’ evenings usually run to tight schedules and most teachers will stick strictly to the time limits (it’s not unheard of for them to use an egg timer), not least to avoid making subsequent appointments run annoyingly late for other mums and dads. So save the general chit-chat for another day or you risk half your time being wasted talking about the weather.

Making the most of parent’s evening: talk about school work, your child’s progress and any support they need.

Parents’ evening is your opportunity to get feedback on how your child is doing at school, so how can you get the most out of your time in there?

Don’t just focus on academic matters Behaviour, friendships and how your child has settled into the class are all just as important as reading, writing and maths.

Be realistic about teacher feedback The style of feedback teachers give has changed since most of us were kids – it Plan and prioritise

tends to be less blunt and less about Maximise what you get out of the direct comparisons with classmates. So if meeting by working out priorities in you go in expecting to know your child’s advance. What do you need to know the position in the class versus other most and what do you want to communicate to the teacher? Have a chat children, or whether they’re on a higher reading level than specific classmates, with your child to see if they have any you’ll be disappointed. At best you might worries or issues and find out more be told they are ‘in the top quarter’ or about what they do and don’t enjoy at ‘middle group’. Equally, if your little one is school. Then write a list and put it in only in reception, it’s pointless grilling the order of importance. Take a pen/ pencil teacher about their future job prospects and paper to write notes.

By Liat Hughes-Joshi

Confident, fearless Learners Explore Learning has a passion to help students achieve their potential and be the best they can be. They get to know each child as an individual and help them to fall in love with learning. Their goal is to build confident, fearless learners who are hungry for knowledge. Explore Learning have delivered award-winning maths and English tuition to over 175,000 children across the UK.They have a proven record of supporting children both academically and attitudinally. www.explorelearning.co.uk September - October 2016

Be open-minded Most of us head into parents’ evening wanting to hear fabulous things about our children but the reality is you might receive negative feedback, albeit this should be constructive. It can be hard to take this on board if you don’t agree but stay calm and at least hear the teacher out respectfully before asking further questions or making your points back.

Don’t be surprised Don’t be shocked if some of the descriptions of your son or daughter aren’t so familiar. Sometimes children behave or perform differently at school compared to at home – your child might be extremely chatty with you but very quiet in the classroom for example.

Need more information?

If any issues were left unresolved or you have concerns once you’ve digested the feedback, it’s normally fine to request a follow-up meeting with the teacher.

Parents’ evening question ideas: Do ask: Has my child settled well into school life/ in the class this year? What are his/ her strengths and weaknesses?

How is he/ she doing compared to expectations for this age and stage? Is there anything we can be doing to help support his/ her learning or behaviour at home?…About friendships and behaviour, not just academic matters.

Do not ask: About other children’s academic performance– this is confidential. You shouldn’t be given class rankings in primary schools.

Liat Hughes-Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books.

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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Clubs and Classes

Run a mile: Fill your kids with energy, concentration and better behaviour

Natural Runners

Find out why running could be the best sport for your kids…

By Sally J. Hall

In 2012, a school in Stirling started an amazing project; instigated by Head Teacher Elaine Wyllie, the pupils ran a mile at the beginning of school every day. The benefits were seen almost immediately, with them becoming more energised in lessons, improved concentration and better behavior all round.

But could running be the sport of choice for your child?

Why is running great for kids?

Running comes naturally to children. Just take a look at a playground full of kids and you’ll soon notice that groups of them are running around. Running also forms a number of games – playing “It”, running races, etc.

include: Walk at a brisk pace– three to five minutes. Jog slowly, speed up gradually, and then walk and shake out your legs. Skip, do high steps and skip sideways.

At the end of a run it is also important to cool down, so walk for a while to encourage blood to return to resting flow. Follow with some gentle stretches to prevent cramps.

Fringe benefits Running, can also help with other sports such as football, rounders, baseball and rugby. Your child will begin to find the running part easy, which allows them to concentrate on skills and technique.

Supporting their body Running takes a lot out of you, so it is important to make sure your child eats well and is well hydrated. A small, carb-heavy Entry level snack before a run is good and a balanced diet with plenty of protein, fruit and vegetables will help them progress. Make sure You really do not need much equipment to get little ones they have water frequently and avoid sugary energy drinks. running – as long as children have comfortable clothing, they can get started. The only thing to be careful of is their feet.

Things to be aware of Make sure you invest in a really good pair of running shoes and Nobody should run with an injury - that includes kids. have them fitted by an expert in a specialist running shop. Your Try to keep it fun and ignore high pressured racing. Don’t time child’s feet are still developing, so restricting them and having them. Make sure your child gets plenty of rest. Build up inadequate support can lead to injury and long-term problems. gradually to longer distances. Encourage them to slow to a How to get started walking pace when tired There are a number of running apps and websites around now Local running clubs that help anyone, of any ability, to get started. So whether you Worcester Athletic Club, Worcester choose Couch to 5K or Athletics 365 or something similar, you www.worcester-ac.co.uk and your kids can start off with a short run and gradually begin Hereford ParkRun

to work up to longer distances. A programme that follows a walk-run-walk routine works well. Kids can join in with ParkRun www.parkrun.org.uk/hereford/ activities; some offer a Junior two kilometer version.

Sally is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting Warm up and warm down titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Running without warming up is a recipe for disaster, as you run Kindersley). the risk of injury. Start with a warm-up session which should 12

Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566

September - October 2016

Clubs and Classes

Looking For A Club That Ticks All The Boxes?

Swim Academy age 4-10

Your child has the potential

How do you choose between an activity that encourages a healthy lifestyle and one that promotes artistic development?

One that will train a child’s motor skills or one that inspires musicality? In fact, there is something that encompasses all of these things. Dancing!

10%

*T&Cs apply

tel: 01905 888346 visit:puddleducks.com/worcestershire

worcestershire@puddleducks.com

By Helena Mitchell,

We have the expertise

off first term fees

Kids of all abilities love Swim Academy! Our expert teachers carefully nurture your child’s confidence, developing an effortless swimming style and gaining life-saving skills, all while having fun!

Start healthy, stay healthy: With a range of movements for the whole body, dance is a fun way to keep fit. Plus the benefit is long lasting – because active children are more likely to stay in the habit of exercising as adults.

Body and brain: Dance helps to develop your child’s gross motor skills - including balance, co-ordination, strength and spatial awareness. Learning and repeating movement combinations can also improve memory.

Get creative! Children love having an input into their dancing by adding their own endings, improvising to music or discussing themes. Dance classes provide an encouraging environment to express ideas.

Musicality: Not only do children learn about rhythm and keeping to the beat – but through different dance styles, they discover music genres ranging from jazz and classical to pop, urban and world music.

‘Friends who dance together, stay together.’ By working together to make up and practice dances, children form close bonds with like-minded friends. For children who are shy at school, dance class is often the place they can be themselves!

And best of all, it’s great fun!

Helena Mitchell is principal of JUMP Dance Academy in Worcestershire which has a range of styles for pre- school children to teenagers. Classes take place in Abbots Morton, plus BRAND NEW classes starting in Inkberrow from September. To register your child call 07572 042164 or email info@jumpdanceacademy.co.uk.

September - October 2016

TIME TO ENTER A NEW WORLD

Acting, singing and dance classes for 4 to 18 year olds.

Find out more and start your child’s journey today

Evesham 01386 429 429 evesham@stagecoach.co.uk

Redditch 01386 429 429 redditch@stagecoach.co.uk

Worcester Bromsgrove 01926 651159 01926 313660 bromsgrove@stagecoach.co.uk worcester@stagecoach.co.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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What’s On THEATRE Artrix, Slideslow Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1PQ 01527 577330, www.artrix.co.uk Snow White – Vienna Festival Ballet World premiere choreography propels this timeless fairytale and answers the question: who is the fairest one of all? Sunday 16 October 2.00 and 5.00 pm £19.00, £17.50, £14.50 under 16s. £64.00 family ticket

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.

15 October 11.00 £6.00.

Stick Man Touching, funny and utterly original, this award-winning production features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. 16 - 17 October £13.00, £10.00 Ministry of Science Live! WARNING! WARNING! 100% Educational. 200% Entertaining. 300% Explosive. 400% Fun. 26 October 2.30 pm £13.50, £11.50

Shark In The Park From the creative team behind Hairy Maclary & Friends - see all 3 of Nick Sharratt’s ‘Shark in the Park’ books live on stage! Aimed at 2 - 7 year olds. 25 October 2.00pm and 4.00pm. £11.50, £9.50 under 16s, £35.00 family ticket

The Wizard of Oz Join Dorothy, Tin Man, Scarecrow and Lion as they transport you back in time with this classic tale - featuring all the best songs.

6 – 8 October 7.30 pm with an additional 2.30 pm showing on Saturday £12.00.

The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Hubble is a little boy with a very big dream, he wants to be a world-class magician. He saves up his pocket money to buy a spellbook and then sets off to Mr Zacoor’s Toy Shop to buy it. But Mr Zacoor is no ordinary shopkeeper, he’s a real life Sorcerer! And he has a very special job for Charlie. 29 October 2.30 pm £8.50, £7.00 under 16s.

Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, Worcs, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk A Frozen Fiesta Listen to the Ice Queen’s stories in The Room Upstairs at the Palace Theatre. Join with her singing and dancing and enjoy a themed craft session making Frozen bracelets and Olaf nightlights.

17 September 10.30am £5.00 and £4.00.

Talents Of Britain Features some of the brightest stars in British Comedy, Music , Dance and Cabaret, in a line-up of familiar faces from the world of Talent shows and live entertainment including stars from The Voice, Britain’s Got Talent and X Factor.

28 October 7.30 pm £16.00, £13.00.

The Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED 01905 611427, www.worcesterlive.co.uk William and the Pirates Join in the fun, songs and audience participation in popular plays for two-to-nineyear-olds. 1 October 10.30 and 11.45 am £2.50 The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555, www.courtyard.org.uk The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Charlie Hubble is a little boy with a very big dream, he wants to be a world class magician. So, he saves up his pocket money to buy The Big Book of Magic for Trainee Magicians.

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Families Hereford & Worcester

Heritage Open Day Weekend A free family event at the County Museum – explore 1000 years of history, meet the Castle’s Scullery Maid and get hands-on with our collections. 10-11 September 11.00am to 4.00pm.

Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1RL 01531 633160, www.eastnorcastle.com Circus Skills Clown around, learn to stilt walk, juggle and more…11 September 11.00am to 5.30pm £6.50 adult, £4.50 child, £17.50 family ticket

Malvern Theatres, Grange Road, Malvern, Worcs, WR14 3HB 01684 892277, www.malvern-theatres.co.uk

Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org

Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 7XZ 01299 250416, www. museumsworcestershire.org.uk

Hartlebury Halloween Four fun family days of Autumn craft activities including owl masks, skeleton Jack’s, autumn scrapbooks and more. You can also carve a pumpkin for your Halloween celebrationn 25 - 28 October 10.30 am - 4.00 pm. An additional charge of £2 per child applies for the day’s activities, plus a small charge for your pumpkinR

Evesham Arts Centre Theatre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4QH 01386 446944, www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk

Elephant in the Garden The new adaptation by Simon Reade from Michael Morpurgo’s best-selling children’s novel. Lizzie, her mother and an elephant from the zoo, flee the Allied fire-bombing in the endgame of the Second World War. 6 October 1.30 pm and 7.00pm £17.92, £15.68 child

a must and there will be prize for our favourite outfit.

28 -29 October 5.30pm - 7.00pm. £5.00. Booking in advance is essential.

MUSEUMS

Family Autmun Antics Apple pressing, leaf art, making elf homes, bush craft plus lots of other activities. 25 September £6.50 adult, £4.50 child, £17.50 family

Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, Worcs, B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk

Hampton Court Castle and Gardens, Hopeunder-Dinmore, Leominster, HR6 0PN 01568 797676, www.hamptoncourt.org.uk

Identify that tree! A guided tour around the Museum to introduce you to ways of identifying the trees that can be found around the Museum grounds.

Avoncroft is set in countryside on the outskirts of Bromsgrove and has a wide variety of trees. This event is suitable for beginners with an interest in nature.

17 September 11.00am - 1.00pm. £10.00.

Joust! Thundering hooves and the clash of lances against shields! Knights in armour and fair ladies with favours. An awesome spectacle for all the family!

24-25 September

Family Spooky Fun in the Cellars These eight days are the only time in the year when our cellars are open to the public. Do you have the nerve to go past the ‘Beware of the Bats’ sign and down the steps to see what lies beneath our MediEvil Castle where scary cobwebs and screaming ghouls await you? It’s creepy, it’s crawly, it’s cool but it’s fun. 22 - 31 October

Black Country Living Museum, Tipton Road, Dudley, West Midlands DY1 4SQ 0121 557 9643 www.bclm.co.uk Halloween Nights Prepare for a spooktacular evening of street performers, fire-jugglers, magicians and treats.

Bring along your treat bag for a sweet surprise in the Museum’s houses and shops things to life!.

28 -29 and 31 October 6.30pm - 10.00pm. £14.40 £8.10. This is a pre-book only event.

The Commandery, 109 Sidbury, Worcester, WR1 2HU 01905 361821, www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk Heritage Open Day Weekend Explore The Commandery’s links to the English Civil War through a series of FREE guided tours, talks and activities. 11 September 1.30 pm – 5.00 pm Forge Mill Needle Museum, Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY 01527 62509, www.forgemill.org.uk Heritage Open Day A day to celebrate our local heritage. Tours of Forge Mill. Tours of the Bordesley Abbey site. Family heritage trail. Children’s craft activity. Redditch History in Print, exhibition using newspaper archives 11 September 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Free includes entry into the museum A Spooktacular Time At The Museum Join the Palace Youth Theatre for Halloween games, pumpkin carving and a whole load of spooky fun. Fancy dress is To advertise call: 01684 770566

Severn Valley Railway, Kidderminster Station, Comberton Hill, Kidderminster, DY10 1QX 01299 403816, www.svr.co.uk Paddington Visit Ride out into the countryside on one of our steam trains to meet a well-known character from TV or film. 11 September Take a ride on the Ghost Train Dare to take a thrilling ride in the dark! Our Ghost Trains are a ‘sellout’ every year and early booking is strongly advised.

Arrive early at our station at Kidderminster where our Spooky DJ will be there to entertain you before your Ghost Train departs out into the night and, hopefully, back! 27-29 October

EVENTS Berrington Hall, nr Leominster, HR6 0DW Tel: 01568 615721 Ghostly graveyard trail Follow the spooky trail around Brown’s final landscape and see where the best places are to find some of the ghosts of the past to collect a prize at the end. 22 October – 6 November10.00 am – 4.00 pm. Trail £2. Normal admission fees apply.

Cider Weekend An extensive range of apples will be on display as well as cider making demonstrations and lots of good food stalls. Organised children’s activities and live folk music to entertain throughout the weekend. 1-2 October 10.00 am - 4.00 pm Brockhampton Estate, Greenfields, Bringsty, Herefordshire, WR6 5TB Tel: 01885 482077 Apple Harvest Wander through the orchards and September - October 2016

What’s On

Please mention you saw this event in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine

choose some freshly picked apples to take home.

Support our habitat diversity by enjoying our apple harvest. 3 October - 6 November 11.00am – 5.00pm Spooky medieval Hallowe’en family trail discover the gruesome medieval origins of Hallowe’en.

Explore around Lower Brockhampton and discover our weird and spooky history. Complete the family trail and win a prize. 22-30 October 11.00 am – 4.30 pm Brockhampton Beast- Dirt run Take the challenge and explore the woods, hills, parkland, and farmland of Brockhampton Estate. Covering a range of terrain. Can you beat the beast? Adult and child runs 6 November 9.00am – 12.00 pm Croft Castle, Yarpole, nr Leominster, HR6 9PW Tel: 01568 780246 Battle of Mortimer’s Cross Join the 500-strong re-enactment group for a recreation of the battle, including weaponry and armoury and a fifteenthcentury living camp with cooking and dancing. Have a go at archery and browse through memorabilia on sale. 10 -11 September 10.00 am – 5.00 pm DirtRun - The gothic gauntlet Fancy a Sunday morning blast up to an Iron Age Hillfort? A 2.8k junior race as well as the senior race. 18 September 8.00 am – 1.00 pm.

Hallowe’en Spooktacular Don your scariest fancy dress and dust off your broomstick for a weekend of ghosts and ghouls. Ghost stories, face painting, pumpkin carving, broom stick racing and more family fun. 22-23 October 10.00am – 4.00 pm Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW Tel: 01905 371006 Bat walk with the Worcestershire Bat Group

Brightstripe- Cultural Health CIC, College Road Campus, College Road, Hereford, HR1 1EB 01432 358232 www.h-art.org.uk

Join experts from the group as they take you around the park in search of these fascinating creatures.

25 September 6.00pm – 8.00.

Apple Pressing Day Bring along your own apples and pears to get them juiced, or purchase apples from Croome’s own orchard picked by our volunteers. But don’t forget to bring a container for it to go in!

Worcestershire Orchard Workers will help you juice the fruit. 8-10 October 11.00 am – 3.00 pm

H.Art Herefordshire Art Week 9-day art trail following bright pink signs across the whole of Herefordshire. Meet artists in the intimacy of their homes and studios. 10-18 September H Weston & Sons Ltd The Bounds Much Marcle, Ledbury Herefordshire HR8 2NQ Tel: 01531 660233

Hallowe’en Activity Days Follow clues round the park, to find the monster, Frankenstein. 30 - 30 October 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per pumpkin

Big Apple weekend A seasonal celebration of English apples and cider in the Herefordshire parishes of Marcle Ridge. Leominster Morris Men, Cider Mill tour and tastings will be available during the day.

8-9 October September 10.30 am – 4.00 pm

Hanbury Hall, School Road, Hanbury, Droitwich, WR9 7EA Tel: 01527 821214 Apple Weekend Purchase delicious home-grown apples from Hanbury’s orchards and talk to the experts. 1-2 October 10.30 am – 5.00 pm

Queenswood Country Park, Hope Under Dinmore, Herefordshire, HR6 0PY www. herefordshirewt.org/node/3355

FAMILY ACTIVITY DAYS – HALLOWEEN Join in with spooky trails and ghostly activities this October half-term. 22-30 October 10.30 am – 4.00 pm

Gruffalo Trail Launch Party @ Queenswood Venture into the woods to celebrate the launch of the new gruffalo trail at Queenswood. This will be an exciting day with lots of activities including meet the Gruffalo, craft and music workshops, storytelling, face painting, WildPlay in the woods and much, much more.

17 September 10.00am - 4.00pm

Snowshill Manor and Garden, Snowshill, near Broadway, WR12 7JU Tel: 01386 852410 Autumn @ Snowshill The Snowshill team will be celebrating this beautiful time of year. Our menu will be filled with home made apple delights, you can chat to local experts and enjoy the flavours of this season.

1-20 October 11.00 am - 5.30pm

Three Counties Showground, Malvern, WR13 6NW www.threecounties.co.uk/ malvernautumn/

The Weir Garden, Swainshill, Hereford HR4 7QF Tel: 01981 590509 All Things Onion A week of activities all to do with the onion and its family. Onion showing, to learning the art of stringing. Something for everyone.

22-30 October10.30 am – 4.00 pm

Malvern Autumn Show A celebration of food, the countryside, gardening & nostalgia.

24-25 September 9.00am - 6.00pm

Shooting Entertainment for ages 7 to 107 Birthday Parties - Kids Parties - Stag Parties Hen Parties - Works Parties - Team Building

Combat Laser Tag - Laser Clay Shooting Real Clay Shooting - Archery & Rifle www.shooting4fun.co.uk

01527-575141

mark@shooting4fun.co.uk

Holt Heath, near Worcester

Half Term Fun!

A great day out for the whole family!

Open every day during Half Term*

Take the

25th Oct - 1stOctober Nov *No activities on Sunday 26th 22nd - 30th

Pumpkin Trailer Tour

Play Everyone’s favourite autumn sport is back!

(Not included in Farm Park entry)

01905 621954 September - October 2016

Visit www.topbarn.co.uk for full details and prices.

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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Please mention you saw this event in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine

For A Fabulous Festive Feast Book Now for Beauty and the Beast!

For full details of performance schedule & ticket prices please go online or pick up a leaflet/brochure from the theatre

AS SEEN ON

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

TRY RUGBYTOTS Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.

For more details, just call or email.

0345 313 0014

michael@rugbytots.co.uk

rugbytots.co.uk

The world’s favourite rugby play programme 16

Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566

September - October 2016