Families Hampshire West Magazine September/October 2018

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IN THIS ISSUE Making the most of school open days Halloween & October half term activities Independent or state education Clubs & classes

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Issue 66 September/October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

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Managing Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk 07789 882 467 Advertising Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk What’s on and local news Chloe Atkinson assistant@familieshampshirewest.co.uk Next issue November/December 2018 Booking deadline 1 October 2018 Distribution We distribute in Winchester, Southampton, The New Forest, Totton, Eastleigh, Chandler’s Ford, Hedge End, Bursledon, Netley, Park Gate and all the areas in between.

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Contents 4 .

News & Views

5.

School news

6.

Independent or state education?

8.

Making the most of school open days

10.

Clubs & classes news

12.

Why your child should learn to swim?

14.

What’s on in September & October

18.

Halloween & October half term activities

RECRUITMENT OPPORTUNITY © Families Hampshire West Magazine 2018.

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

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Families Hampshire West 3

News & Views

Being prepared For family Life – a toolkit for parents Equipping parents, teachers and the other adults who support children is the nature of my role. With a background in Child Development & Child Psychology my work with parents unpacks their child’s specific stage of development and helps them to use this new knowledge to build a happy, fulfilling and respectful parent-child relationship. As part of this parental support, I also offer an extensive programme of engaging and dynamic Parent Workshops which provide age appropriate tips and tools across a range of relevant topics.

Boosting children’s selfesteem and life skills with Perform A common struggle shared by many children is lack of confidence. This can stop some children reaching their full potential. Perform is a unique drama school that uses drama, dance and singing to help all children achieve their true potential – even those that are shy and reserved.

“Perform is not a stage school” stresses Perform Producer, Karen. “It teaches life skills through fun drama games and end of term shows. The real aim of the classes is to help children develop the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Coordination and Communication.

“Classes are small with both a Producer and a Teacher. Children are offered a free trial and the Producer spends time beforehand with each parent establishing their goals. For instance, speaking more clearly or making eye contact when introduced to someone unfamiliar.”

Producers report back to parents after each class on the focus of the week and answer questions about the progress of individual children.

“Shy children often come to classes clinging to their parents. I can pretty much guarantee that within 5 or 6 classes, they will run in without waving goodbye” reports Karen.

Perform offer no-obligation free trial sessions.

Call 020 7255 9120 or visit www.perform.org. uk/try to book a free class today.

“Thank you so much, your advice is always invaluable and I came away feeling far better equipped. You are truly an inspiration and I feel very fortunate to be able to benefit from the support you offer” said a local Hampshire Mother.

For a full list of workshops visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/lorraine-lee-training-7910172302

Join The Point this October for a bumper family programme The Point, Eastleigh offers a bumper October for families. In new comedy Me & My Bee, you’re invited to save the world – one bee at a time. Join The Point on Saturday 6 October and join the bee party!

Direct from a smash hit West End season, The Tiger Who Came to Tea is on Saturday 13 & Sunday 14 October. This magical musical play celebrates 50 years of Britain’s best-loved picture book.

Family favourite ballet Alice in Wonderland by Let’s All Dance takes audiences through the curious world of the White Rabbit and Mad Hatter. Don’t be late for this very important date on Thursday 25 October and ending the half-term holiday on a high, 8-16 year olds can learn new skills in juggling and acrobatics at Sunday Circus School on Sunday 28 October. For more information and to book these shows visit www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

Help your child gain confidence in Maths If you have ever worried about your child’s confidence in Maths, then September is a great time to make a change. At this time of year children are much more receptive to doing something new. A little regular, nontheatening practice can transform your child’s ability to cope at school. It is really valuable for them to practise using money, clocks and times tables – these are fundamental building blocks of both SATs and GCSE. You can also supplement this with some targeted, age-appropriate work sheets relating to the National Curriculum for Maths - like Maths Club by Post. It’s a fun little pack of Maths puzzle sheets delivered to your door each month and will ‘drip-feed’ your child with all the skills they need to be super-confident in Maths at school.

For your free trial pack go to the website www.mathsclubbypost.co.uk and for more ideas for helping your child at home yourself like facebook.com/mathsclubbypost

You can TRANSFORM your child's confidence! .CO.UK

4 Families Hampshire West

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School news

Moyles Court School provides a happy learning setting in the heart of the New Forest Moyles Court School believe that being confident, happy and stimulated leads to a successful academic experience. Small class sizes, individualised learning, great teaching, extensive after school provision, tailored transport and excellent pastoral care provide your children with the best possible start in life.

Science & Technology festival fun at King Edward VI School King Edward VI School in Southampton celebrated its second Science and Technology Festival in the summer, by throwing open its doors to the public for a series of inspiring and mind-blowing evening lectures. The beautiful new Dobson Theatre was the venue for the talks, which were free, with all the tickets quickly being snapped up for every event. Lecturers came from a wide variety of scientific backgrounds, including Explorer Huw James, Neuroscientist Dr Guy Sutton, and the ‘Rock Doctor’ Mark Lawney on the physics of rock music. The fabulous response to these lectures means the school plans to host similar events at the next Science and Technology Festival in 2020.

Moyles Court is a small independent school, who invite you to come and see what wonderful work happens everyday by visiting an open morningon Saturday 29 September at 10am. It is here where you can allow yourself to relax and enjoy what is on offer while being perceptive to the details. Richard Milner Smith, Headmaster says “our core values are at the heart of our fabulous school and every child benefits. We offer individualised learning, a flexible approach to travel and wrap around care – making us accessible to so many families who want their children to be happy, learning and achieving in our glorious New Forest setting.”

Prince’s Mead School welcomes a new Headmaster Prince’s Mead is delighted to welcome new Headmaster, Mr Peter Thacker who has come to the Kings Worthy school from Lambrook School in Ascot, a high achieving co-ed day and boarding school where he was a much-loved Deputy Head.

On being appointed Mr Thacker commented, “I am delighted to have been selected to lead Prince’s Mead in the next phase of its development, building on the already excellent work and strong foundations. Recently, I have experienced the magic of Prince’s Mead as a place of learning, a source of lifelong memories and, above all, a place where children want to be. It will be an extraordinary privilege to work alongside an outstanding team of staff in seeking to provide the very best possible support for pupils to grow and fulfil their natural potential in a most breath-taking environment.”

The main focus of the three day biannual festival of course is inspirational activities for our pupils and the 250 children from our partnership primary schools who join us.

They take part in activities based on a wide array of science topics, including biofuels, brain dissections, DNA workshops and a spectacular magic science show.

St Swithun’s School invites you to see their outstanding facilities this Autumn

Summer 2019 will see the return of another fabulous festival with creative arts centre stage. Visit www.kes.sch.hants.uk for more information or follow the school on social media.

Open days provide an excellent introduction to the school and there are a number of opportunities to visit coming up. On Friday 14 September, both the prep and the senior school will be hosting an open day including a tour, an opportunity to meet the staff and a presentation from the head giving an overview of the unique atmosphere and opportunities at St Swithun’s. On Friday 16 November, there will be a young explorer themed pre-prep open afternoon featuring bug sweeping and songs around the campfire.

St Swithun’s School is a leading independent day, weekly and full-boarding school for girls aged 4-18 with a co-ed nursery.

It offers outstanding teaching, sporting and recreational facilities.

To book a place on an open day, or to arrange an individual visit at a more convenient time, please contact the senior school on 01962 835700, or the prep school on 01962 835750.

oPeN day SAturdAy 29th SePtember 10Am-12.30Pm

GettinG the best out of pupils in a supportive, colourful and c a r i n G a t m o s p h e r e w h e r e i n t e l l i G e n c e e m e r G e s n a t u r a l l y.

Moyles Court sChool – a strong sense of plaCe

3 - 16 Co-eduCational, day & boarding Proven AcAdemic SucceSS - ScholArShiPS AvAilAble moyleS court, ringwood, hAmPShire, bh24 3nF. e: inFo@moyleScourt.co.uk t: 01425 472 856 www.moylescourt.co.uk

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Families Hampshire West 5

Independent or state education for your child?

Olivia Malaure talks to Frances Delaney, a parent whose child has experienced both types of school.

If you are fortunate enough to be able to choose where your child will go to school, then it might help to look at the bigger picture and leap forward twelve years.

to an independent school at the beginning of Year 6.

Recent statistics show that students from state schools out-perform students from independent (private) schools at university.

However, before you allocate your tuition fees to more leisurely pursuits, consider that these statistics also show that students from independent schools are more likely to gain a place at university in the first place.

Firstly, I wasn’t confident that my daughter would get into our preferred, local state secondary school. I also wanted her to attend a school with an integrated sixth form, rather than have to transition to a large college later on. Crucially though, my daughter’s teacher, who I really respected, suggested she was playing up in class and was possibly bored because in Year 5, along with a number of other children, she’d actually reached Year 6 grades. I wanted my child to reach her full potential but her teacher couldn’t help further as her priority had to be improving the grades of those children who were under-performing.

Right now, the idea of your young child reaching university age may seem unimaginable, but it pays to do your research early. And, when you do, it’s hard to ignore the fiery discussion about the moral, financial and practical issues that catapult from any search engine as you try to weigh up the ‘pros and cons’ of state versus independent education.

I spoke to Frances Delaney, a parent who made the decision to move her daughter from a state

Why did you make this change?

Was it an easy decision?

No actually, it was very difficult. My partner was politically opposed to private education - we both went to state schools. But we’d had the

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www.homeschooltutoring.co.uk 6 Families Hampshire West

experience of our elder son completing his education at a large state college where he just didn’t “fit in.” He felt he didn’t do as well as he could have done at a smaller private school. It took my partner a lot of convincing, but I wanted our daughter to have the best educational experience possible and my gut feeling was that she would perform better at an independent school. We were in a position where we could afford the fees and so we decided to move her.

Looking back, do you feel you made the right decision?

That’s a difficult question and I don’t have a definitive answer. She is happy and confident and doing well at school, so that is very positive. She is still in touch with her friends from state school and it seems they’re also happy and doing well too, so it’s hard to tell what would have happened had she remained in the state sector.

Has your daughter experienced more academic pressure at her new school?

Yes, and the pressure comes from both parents and the school. But, truthfully, I’m paying to ensure that she reaches her full potential and so pressure is part of that. My daughter thrives in that type of environment but I can see that it could be stressful for children who aren’t meeting expectations, or who excel in one particular subject area rather than being an academic all-rounder. Having said I would imagine that children in good state secondary schools are also under a lot of academic pressure too.

At my daughter’s school, there is not an automatic entry into the sixth form so there is constant discussion about what she can achieve and how she will achieve it. Obviously, this isn’t the case in all independent schools.

Do you have any advice for parents who are having difficulty making a decision between a good local state school and a private school?

Look at the environment in which your child thrives and explore how they learn. Think about how they would deal with regular tests and exams. If they are at senior school level, find out what subjects are on offer in the sixth form, and if they are in line with your child’s interests.

Some state schools offer a wider variety of subjects than some smaller private schools with limited more resources. The advantage of an independent primary school is that you are training your child for the private system and this training has its advantages. In my opinion the kids who are attending independent schools are not better or brighter, just more prepared.

(est. 1984) familiesonline.co.uk

Co-educational Independent Education for Ages 3-13

Highwood House, Highwood Lane, Romsey SO51 9ZH 01794 513231 registrar@stroud-kes.org.uk www.stroud-kes.org.uk

An “education of the highest quality” ISI report: Small classes and acres of outdoor learning for happy, confident and creative pupils.

KING EDWARD’S OPEN EVENING Friday 5th October 2018 | 6.30 – 9.00pm Fulfil your potential: Academic excellence, inspiring teaching and strong pastoral support.

Wilton Road, Southampton SO15 5UQ

Co-educational Independent Education for Ages 11-18

023 8079 9216 registrar@kes.hants.sch.uk www.kes.hants.sch.uk

Morning mini-conference for parents and taster experience for year 6 girls Year 6 Strategies for Success: Key skills for the year ahead

Saturday 8 September 2018 St Swithun’s School Top tips from the experts for Year 6 parents: Supporting your Y6 daughter, template for a worklife balance in Y6 and Y7, the inside track on girls’ friendships, managing the step up to Y7, keeping things calm, one-to-one Q&A. Year 6 girls’ programme: Digital coding and creating, pop lacrosse, exploding marshmallows and screaming jelly babies, loopy linguistics, garage band and splash session.

Refreshments will be served. Booking is essential.

Please contact registrar@stswithuns.com or visit www.stswithuns.com/year6conference

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Families Hampshire West 7

Making the best of school open days

How are open days organised?

This autumn, state and independent schools will be opening their doors to prospective pupils and their parents to give them a flavour of life at their school.

Claire Winter has the lowdown on how to get the best out of these Open Days and tours.

What is an open day?

School open days help you decide what school you want your child to go to. During an open day, prospective parents are shown around the school, often on a school day, to give them a flavour of the working life of the school and the school environment. You will be able to see the children in lesson and talk to the teachers and pupils.

Sometimes pupils are given the task of showing parents around the school. This is a great opportunity to ask them how they enjoy being at the school. How settled, relaxed and confident these children are can give you an idea of how happy the children are there. Usually, the head teacher or a senior member of staff also gives a talk which includes a general overview of the school and its values and ethos. This is often followed by a presentation by the head of admissions or the relevant head of the section of the school (for example, head of reception, or sixth form).

When are they held?

State schools generally hold Open Days in September and October aimed at children and families looking for a school place for the following year. It’s a good idea to start looking a year in advance. So if your child is starting school, start looking at schools when they are three. If you are looking for secondary school places, start looking in year 5 (when your child is nine or ten). You can then revisit the schools you are most interested in with your child the following year.

Independent schools often hold Open Days throughout the Autumn and Spring terms.

They can have waiting lists for Receptionage children or require children to take a school-specific 7+ or 11+ exam to gain a place, so you need find out the criteria for entry to the school and visit well in advance.

8 Families Hampshire West

Schools organise Open Evenings as well as days to allow working parents to visit the school too. Some schools (mainly independent) hold Open Days on a Saturday. All schools put a lot of care and organisation into the events and they all want to show their school in the best light.

However, there may be a lot of people attending so do be sure to turn up on time and follow the school’s directions during the event.

Tips for visiting an open day •

Take your child with you. There is no point in falling in love with a school only to find your child does not want to go there.

•

What is your general feeling about the school? Your gut reaction is very important.

•

Do pupils look happy and engaged?

•

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Make sure you ask the pupils what they think of the school.

•

Don’t make decisions on individual teachers. They often move on and large departments have a variety of teachers that will rotate every year to teach your child a particular subject.

•

If your child has a particular interest in a subject, make sure you visit the department and look at the kind of work they will be doing.

•

What extra-curricular activities do they have? Are there clubs that will engage your child and allow them to pursue a broad range of interests?

•

While exam results aren’t everything, every parent wants their child to do well.

Academic performance is a top priority for many families. It’s a good idea to see how the school is performing compared to other local schools, using exam league tables and Ofsted reports.

If, after the all your initial visits, you are still undecided, go back and visit the schools on your shortlist again during a normal working day and don’t forget to trust your instincts.

Finally, in making your decision, don’t be afraid to trust your instincts; you know your child and you are best placed to ascertain what is right for them. If your child is older, do take account of their preferences too and include them in the decision making process. The best decision will undoubtedly be the one you all agree.

School Open Day Dates

King Edward VI School

Southampton, SO15 5UQ www.kes.hants.sch.uk Friday 5 October, 6.30pm

Moyles Court School

Ringwood, BH24 3NF www.moylescourt.co.uk Saturday 29 September, 10am

Prince’s Mead School

Winchester, SO21 1AN www.princesmeadschool.org.uk Friday 12 October, 1.30pm

Stroud School

Romsey, SO51 9ZH www.stroud-kes.org.uk To arrange a visit call 01794 513 231

St Swithun’s

Winchester, SO21 1HA Friday 14 September, 12.45pm, Prep Friday 14 September, 1.45pm, Senior

The Gregg Preparatory School

Southampton, SO17 1EJ www.thegreggprep.org Wednesday 17 October, 9.30am

The Sheiling Ringwood

Ringwood, BH24 2EB www.thesheilingringwood.co.uk To arrange a visit call 01425 477488

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The Gregg Preparatory School An independent day school for boys and girls aged 3-11yrs

The Sheiling Ringwood School and College (6-25 years)

Set in a stunning, sustainable and eco-friendly 40-acre site close to the New Forest and Dorset coastline, the natural surroundings of our school and college provide a rich, enabling and therapeutic learning environment for students who have special educational needs.

Open Morning

9.30am - 12noon

Wednesday 17th Oct 2018 We are also happy to show you our lovely school during the school week. If you would like to organise a tour, please call the school office on 023 8055 7352

We offer an individualised and flexible approach to placements. Day and residential. We also offer respite services for our students during the holidays.

www.thegreggprep.org

Call 01425 477488 www.thesheilingringwood.co.uk

17-19 Winn Road, Southampton SO17 1EJ Tel 023 8055 7352 email: office@thegreggprep.org

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Preparing the children of today for the opportunities of tomorrow

CO-EDUCATIONAL DAY SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN AGED 4-11 OPEN AFTERNOON 12TH OCTOBER 2018, 22ND MARCH 2019, 17TH MAY 2019

1.30PM – 4.00PM

No appointment is necessary, we look forward to welcoming you to Prince’s Mead

01962 888000 admin@princesmeadschool.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

www.princesmeadschool.org.uk Families Hampshire West 9

Clubs & Classes

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-12s Perform is a unique children’s drama school that has a special emphasis on child development.

Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, in small groups, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration.

Make your child’s development more fun with Rugbytots Rugbytots offer fun, structured play sessions that take children on a journey of sporting imagination with engaging and energetic coaches supporting them every step of the way, whilst teaching how to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team.

Their motto is “make it more fun”. They do this by delivering our specifically designed programme for each age group with energy, enthusiasm and excitement. Split into three age groups (2-3½, 3½-5 and 5-7 years), Rugbytots classes are age appropriate, fast paced and dynamic. Be prepared to run across the jungle, wade through the quick sand or sprint through Rugbytots Valley avoiding all the smoking boulders.

Email southhants@rugbytots.co.uk to find out more and to book a class.

Bounce and tumble at River Park Leisure centre If tumbling, rolling and jumping is your child’s thing then you could give gymnastics or trampolining a try. River Park Leisure Centre offer gymnastics sessions based on the ‘FUNdamentals’ of movement, strength, balance, coordination and mobility and will help your child to enjoy and master a wide range of sporting activities. They offer sessions at various levels including adult sessions.

The trampolining sessions are run by highly qualified staff to ensure it’s safe and fun so your child can enjoy bouncing and learning new skills. All sessions are developed through close links with British Gymnastics.

Call 01962 848700 or visit their website www.riverparkleisurecentre.co.uk

The perform curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform, with apps, CDs and videos that the children can play at home to keep the magic alive.

Classes available in Hedge End, Hiltingbury, Lymington, Romsey, Southampton and Winchester.

Perform offer no-obligation free trial sessions. Call 020 7255 9120 or visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a free class today.

Bespoke tutoring with St George’s Tutors St George’s Tutors was established in 2015 to provide bespoke private tutoring to individuals, schools and businesses for all subjects, ages and levels serving Winchester, Romsey, Chandler’s Ford, Southampton, Eastleigh and the New Forest and new for this September, St George’s Tutors will open its first private tuition centre in Southampton.

Small groups tuition and revision classes for GCSEs and A levels will be available along with one-to-one tutoring. St George’s Tutors also provides language courses to adults and businesses and organises immersion courses in the UK and in France.

Their experienced and qualified tutors can help students with general academic support, exams preparation and are DBS checked. Email office@stgeorgestutors.com or visit www. stgeorgestutors.com for more information.

La Leche League Southampton – breastfeeding support group Women can come to the breastfeeding support group every Monday (term time only) from 10am- 12pm, at St James Road Methodist Church, Southampton, with a specific question or problem, or to chat and socialize with other breastfeeding mothers. The group is run by volunteer breastfeeding counsellors. Every third Monday of the month they hold a topic led meeting where there is a group discussion on a specific topic related to breastfeeding. The topic is announced on the Facebook page and website and can cover anything from breastfeeding beginnings and common challenges to popular issues such as sleep, gentle parenting and weaning.

Having a good support network is extremely important. La Leche League Southampton’s goal is to empower mothers by providing them with the correct information they need to make the decision that is right for them. Visit www.lllsouthampton.org.uk for more information.

Breastfeeding Support Group

Approved soccer training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years

La Leche League Southampton

Local classes at a venue near you

Call 07896009651

Mondays 10am-12pm (term time only)

For Details Email gdarling@littlekickers.co.uk

St James’ Road Methodist Church St James’ Road, Shirley Southampton, SO15 5HE Facebook “f” Logo

www.LLLSouthampton.org.uk 10 Families Hampshire West

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October half term holiday club at Itchen Valley Country Park Youth Options are excited to be delivering Ofsted registered ‘Wild Woodland Holiday Camp’ based in the woodlands of Itchen Valley Country Park. Children from ages 6–11 are invited to come and spend their October half term enjoying a variety of woodland activities including; shelter building, campfire cooking, woodland art and sculptures, team-building games, camouflage games, woodworking, nature walks, habitat exploration and much more.

Drop off starts from 8.30am and the day runs through to 4pm with the option of extending your day to 5.30pm. Booking can include whole weeks or individual days.

Youth Options are also offering childcare for 3–5 year old on Tuesday 23 October at their outdoor pre-school, Little Owls Woodland PreSchool. Children will get to explore the outdoors in the nurturing setting of a pre-school.

Great football party packages from Goals, Southampton Goals feature the very latest ProTurf artificial grass on all their pitches, the same used by the top European clubs! With our great football party packages, you can’t lose. The Championship Party has 90 minutes of on-pitch action in a safe, fully enclosed all-weather 5-a-side floodlit arenas and party food served in the clubhouse. They have a range of extras to make the day even better for you including a Goals party host, birthday cake, party invites, bootbags and medals, and for the birthday child there is a captains armband, a trophy and mini football. For details call 02380 510666 or visit www.goalsfootball.co.uk

October Half Term Holiday Club @ Itchen Valley Country Park

For more information go to www.youthoptions.co.uk or call 01794 525510.

22 - 26 October

Local tutoring available through Home School Tutoring UK (Hampshire West & Central) Home School Tutoring UK has been running successfully since 1984 and has helped thousands of pupils with attainment, progress, exam preparation, gap filling and most of all, confidence. All our tutors are qualified, experienced, insured, DBS and reference checked.

In addition (and what makes us different from many other agencies) is that each tutor is matched as closely as possible with the pupil to ensure the best “fit” with the person as much as the postcode. No minimum number of sessions to book – just as many as you need.

Call Alex on 02380 275573 to book or for more information.

6 - 11 year olds Monday - Friday 8.30 - 4pm (Late pick up 5.30pm) Forest School themed holiday club, children will spend all day outside exploring and enjoying the natural world.

Call 01794 525510 www.youthoptions.co.uk

Football fun with Little Kickers Little Kickers is the home of pre-school football.

Children are given a positive introduction to sport by teaching high quality football skills in a friendly, fun and pressure-free environment. There are four different classes tailored specifically to the needs of children between 18 months and seven years of age. It’s the perfect way to ignite an enthusiasm for sport that will stay with them for life.

AS SEEN ON

Contact Gary Darling on 07896 009 651 or email gdarling@ littlekickers.co.uk for details of your local classes.

Kick off your child’s birthday celebrations!

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 3244

southhants@rugbytots.co.uk

Call 02380 510 666 and book your kids party at Goals Southampton today. familiesonline.co.uk

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The world’s favourite rugby play programme Families Hampshire West 11

Why your child should learn to swim

Swimming is the only sport that could save your child’s life. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents more than 400 children in the UK died as a result of drowning.

The bottom line is: it makes sense to seriously consider how and when your child is going to learn to swim.

If you are paying good money for lessons, you need to be sure that the end product is good!

Consider group size The smaller the group, the more individual attention your child will get. Of course, the smaller the group, the more expensive the lessons as well, so consider your budget.

Self teaching One option is teaching your child yourself.

Most children love going to the pool and with your persistence, and their willingness to practice, should learn to float and swim doggy paddle well enough to get out of trouble if they fall into the water. However, if you don’t have the time or confidence to do this, or if you would like your child to be able to dive and swim with an ease that enables them to keep swimming length after length, you will need to consider booking some lessons.

What is available?

In this area, we are very fortunate to have plenty of choice of swimming classes include at: •

Local Authority Swimming Pools

•

Private Health Clubs

•

Private Swim Schools

•

One to One tuition

How to Choose?

How do you know which approach is best for your child? Ask around: get recommendations from friends and family and ask about their experiences.

If possible, ask the children for their feedback too.

Talk to the swimming provider you are considering Tell them about your child, what you are 12 Families Hampshire West

There are advantages and disadvantages with every group size: looking for and ask what suitable lessons they have. Pose as many questions as you want and don’t be hurried into accepting unsatisfactory answers. Ask them to send all the information they have for you to consider. If they don’t take an interest in you, cross them off your list!

Ask to observe some lessons If you aren’t permitted to observe lessons, proceed with caution!

At a lesson, watch out for: Interaction between the instructors and the children – are the instructors teaching the children or just watching them swim up and down? The instructors will probably have to raise their voices to be heard, but are they giving the children lots of praise and encouragement along with corrections?

Do they treat the children like individuals, giving pointers to each child, or as one large group? Do they include all children in the group? Would you like to be taught by them? If not, don’t inflict them upon your children!

Are the children enjoying themselves? Is there good discipline in the groups? This is essential when you are leaving your child in a dangerous environment. Watch the children in the higher ability groups – are they swimming well and with seemingly effortless grace?

•

One to One lessons with a good instructor can be great, but your child will miss out on the fun of learning with other children.

•

If you’d like your child to have lots of individual attention, but also want them to have fun with other children, small groups of three are ideal.

•

Larger groups of four or more are handy if you are on a budget and your child is confident, but not so good if your child is shy or nervous and needing a bit more support.

Remember that if your child does not seem happy attending the lessons or does not seem to be progressing, it’s time to consider another option. However, don’t give up on the idea of your child learning to swim. Learning to swim is like riding a bike. It’s a skill that, fortunately, once learned will never be forgotten.

Free Magazines for your school, nursery, cafe, shop or club - just ask! editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk or 07789 882467

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September is the month of new beginnings with Water Babies Weekly Local Classes

Baby swimming lessons are not only one of the best things you can do to bond with your baby, they’re also excellent for their development: they help little ones develop learning skills, boost their confidence, improve their co-ordination and enhance their wellbeing.

NHS guidelines say that babies don’t need to have had their vaccinations before they can swim so you can start your journey together from birth.

Babies who swim on a regular basis develop a respect for water and can be taught potentially lifesaving skills, such as turning onto their backs or, following a sudden submersion, swimming to the nearest solid object. And these skills kick in from remarkably early on.

The next Water Babies term starts in September and places fill up quickly, so give them a call on 01794 324353 or email them at humptydumpty@ waterbabies.co.uk to find out more.

Start swimming at River Park Leisure Centre Swimming is an essential life skill. If you can swim you can enjoy an exciting range of activities in the water. River Park offer lessons for all from 4 month olds to adults. Lessons are taught by qualified teachers and follow the Swim England Learn to Swim pathway. They also have an online portal where you can track your child’s progress.

River Park tailor children’s lessons to each level, making them fun and allowing your child to grow in water confidence. Swimming has a range of health benefits too; It keeps your child’s heart and lungs healthy, improves strength and flexibility, increases stamina and even improves balance and posture, It provides challenges and rewards accomplishments, which helps children to become self-confident and believe in their abilities. Your child will have plenty of opportunities to make friends and grow in confidence

Fun and skills that could save your child’s life We feel incredibly proud that we’ve helped save a number of very young children’s lives after they’ve fallen into water and survived – thanks to the skills they learned with us.

Our world-class teachers could have trained as private pilots – five times over – in the time it takes to fully qualify with us. You can trust us to take the very best care of you and your little one.

classes held... in lovely warm pools across Winchester, Southampton and Fareham

To give your baby a splashing start call

01794 324 353 Let’s teach your baby to swim!

www.waterbabies.co.uk

Visit www.riverparkleisurecentre.co.uk for more information.

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Families Hampshire West 13

What’s on Your essential guide to family events this September & October. We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

12 & 13 September Little Owls Farm Fun Home Farm, Beaulieu, SO42 7YG

To promote your local event, nearly new sale, theatre shows or community event in the next what’s on guide please email editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk

Take a walk around the farm, meet friendly animals and take part in farm themed games and crafts. Sessions must be booked in advance. 10am – 12pm. £6.

4, 13, 18 & 27 September Little Foresters Youth Options Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton SO30 3HQ

8 September Open Day Southampton General Hospital Southampton, SO16 6YD

A fun, group for parents and preschool children (aged 2+) in the woods. Includes campfire, games, crafts and snacks! 10-11.30am. £5

The Open Day is a chance for all the family to find out more about the hospital, with lots of activities on offer throughout the day. 10.30am – 3.30pm.

14 – 23 September Southampton Boat Show Southampton, SO15 1ST

5 – 9 September A Festival of Flowers Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS

8 September Eastleigh Pride Festival Leigh Road Recreational Ground, Eastleigh, SO50 9AL

Immerse yourself in a riot of colour as the Cathedral is transformed by striking and fragrant floral displays evoking the Bible’s exquisite illuminated initials and elaborate decorative schemes. Entry from £10.

6 & 9 September Heritage Open Days The Brickworks Museum Swanwick, SO31 7HB

A chance to see the museum for free! We are proud to be part of the National Heritage Open Days scheme for another year. Free parking and the cafe will be open for light refreshments. 11am – 4pm. Free

7 & 8 September The Exploded Circus Theatre Royal Winchester Jewry Street, SO23 8SB

Step into the moment where an explosion has been frozen in time, the remnants of a big top caught mid-air – with circus ring, sequins and fairground horses suspended above ground. Fri 7.30pm, Sat 2.30pm, 7.30pm. Various ticket prices

8 September Romsey Show Romsey SO51 9LQ

A great family day out. Lots of stalls, food and entertainment. 8am – 6pm.

14 Families Hampshire West

Expect live music and lots of entertainment throughout the day.

This is a free family event,. 12 noon – 5pm

8 & 9 September Harvest Weekend Bursledon Windmill Southampton, SO31 8BG

Activities and various local produce stalls to enjoy. 10am – 3.30pm.

8 & 9 September Day Out With Thomas Lakeside Country Park Eastleigh, SO50 5PE

Day Out with Thomas includes unlimited rides throughout the day, magic shows and entertainment, imagination station with colouring and games, story time and more!

Adults £15, children £12

8 – 16 September (weekends) Theme: CSI Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ

Enjoy an interactive presenter-led session where you will work together to solve a mystery using different CSI techniques then why not take the opportunity to meet and chat with experts from the exciting fields of crime and forensics! You can also create a DNA bracelet and fingerprint art in our Invention Studio. £11 per person.

Southampton Boat Show is Britain’s biggest and best festival of boating. It showcases a plethora of beautifully designed boats and products from over 600 global marine brands. Tickets from £15.50

15 September Open Day Theatre Royal Winchester Jewry Street, SO23 8SB

Join us for behind-the-scenes tours with our technical team, theatre workshops and fun craft activities.

11am – 4pm. Free.

15 September Musical Extravaganza Countryside Education Trust Beaulieu, SO42 7PJ

A number of local musicians and singers will perform well-known songs and instrumentals from the world of jazz, classical, light opera, musicals, cabaret and pop.

7–10.30pm. £20.

15 September Southampton Boat Show Cruise Steamship Shieldhall Southampton Docks, SO15 0HH Cruise on Shieldhall, explore the Southampton Docks. Activities for children. 4–6pm.

15 September Calshot Barnacles Climbing Introduction Calshot Activities Centre Southampton, SO45 1BR

This one-day courses gives the participants a chance to do plenty of climbing as well as learn the basics of how to belayfor each other. Ages 7–10. 9am – 4.30pm. £46.

15 September It’s a Knockout Charity Event Royal Victoria Country Park Netley Abbey, SO31 5GA

This event is supporting the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit at Southampton University Hospital.

15 & 21 September Bats ‘n’ Burgers Itchen Valley Country Park West End, SO30 3HQ

Listen to the bats on the special bat detectors and enjoy a burger at Itchen Valley Country Park. The event will be led by Rick, a member of the Hampshire Bat Group who is brilliant at explaining all about these lovely little creatures. Booking is essential. 6.30pm – 8.30pm. £8.

WHAT’S ON FOR FAMILIES at The Point, Eastleigh THIS OCTOBER Sat 6th Oct: Me & My Bee Sat 13th & Sun 14th Oct: The Tiger Who Came to Tea

Thurs 25th Oct: Alice in Wonderland Sun 28th Oct: Sunday Circus School

023 8065 2333 www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

EASTLEIGH

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16 September Heritage Open Day Cruise Steamship Shieldhall Southampton Docks, SO15 0HH

See the impressive engine room, talk to the Captain and volunteer crew; listen to the informed commentary on the sights and sounds of Southampton Water and The Solent; pass close to the great ocean liners and container ships; walk the teak decks and relax in the Saloon.

4–6pm. Adults £21, children £5.

16 September Brass Rubbing The Westgate Museum Winchester SO23 9AP

Step inside The Westgate, a scheduled monument in the centre of Winchester and make your own brass rubbing from a replica of an original brass on display. 12noon4pm. Free.

16 September MX-5 Show and Shine Beaulieu, New Forest, SO42 7ZN

All Mazda MX-5 car owners are invited to drive into Beaulieu and park up within the museum complex for the MX-5 Show and Shine.

Normal admission charges apply.

16 & 17 September Guess How Much I Love you Theatre Royal Winchester Jewry Street, SO23 8SB Tickets £15.

17 September Helping Children Manage Primary School Friendships The Middle Brook Centre Winchester, SO23 8DQ A workshop looking at age appropriate friendships and making sure children can both make friends and be a good friend. 7:309pm. £10 plus booking fee. www. friendshiphope.eventbrite.co.uk

22 September & 22 October Saturday Storytime The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ

Join musical storytellers on Saturday mornings and step into an enchanted storytelling wood.

10.30am. £3.

22 – 30 September (weekends) Theme: Jurassic Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ

Step back in time to 65 million years ago when dinosaurs roamed the Earth! Discover some of the wonders of the Jurassic period with our mini roaming dinosaur puppets and the opportunity to handle real fossils. £11 per person.

23 September Toddler Time – Paper Dollies SeaCity Museum Southampton, SO14 7FY

Enjoy an exciting children’s story, explore the museum and then get arty. 10.30am. £4

23 September WW1 - The Last Year The Brickworks Museum

Swanwick Lane, SO31 7HB

The Brickworks want to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of the war with a September Steam-up.

Adults £7, Concessions £6, Children £4 and Family £18.

24 September The Greatest Showman: Sing-along The Point Eastleigh, SO50 9DE Contact the venue to book. 7.30pm

26 & 27 September Bing Live!

Theatre Royal Winchester Jewry Street, SO23 8SB

Join Bing, Sula, Coco and Pando as they find out how to tell stories by pretending, dressing-up and singing songs. Wed 1pm & 4pm, Thurs 10am & 1pm. Adults £19, Children £17.

29 September Family Fun in the Woods Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Ampfield, Romsey, SO51 0QA

This is an autumnal session of fun, fruit, and food around the fire.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Drop in between 1pm & 4pm. £5 per family (garden admission also applies)

29 September Art Assemblage Mottisfont Near Romsey, SO51 0LP

A wonderful opportunity to explore the beautiful Mottisfont landscape and collect natural found objects.

You will then be shown how to sculpt with clay to incorporate these

objects into your own unique art assemblages and sculpture. Ages 12+. Booking essential. 10am – 12noon. Adults £25, children £15

1 – 31 October Harvest Time Mottisfont Near Romsey, SO51 0LP

Autumn is a time for harvest: from gathering fallen leaves to foraging apples. At Mottisfont, we’re celebrating this seasonal bounty with events, hands-on activities and opportunities to learn more about our wider estate. 10am – 5pm.

Normal admission charges apply.

2, 11 & 16 October Little Foresters Youth Options Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton SO30 3HQ

A fun, group for parents and preschool children (aged 2+) in the woods. Includes campfire, games, crafts and snacks! 10-11.30am. £5

3 – 27 October Wicked Mayflower Theatre Commercial Road, SO15 1GE

Wicked tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two young women who first meet as sorcery students. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfil their destinies as Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. Ages 7+ From £24.50.

From September 2018, Everyone Active will be working with Hampshire County Council, Hamble School and Eastleigh Borough Council to deliver Sports and Leisure services for the people of Hamble - including managing Hamble Sports Complex.

We’ll be busy decorating and refurbishing the existing facilities as well as creating a new fitness suite and studio plus extending the car parking facilities. Everyone is looking forward to getting active in Hamble!

023 8235 2508 Hamble Sports Complex, Satchell Lane, Hamble SO31 4NE www.everyoneactive.com/HelloHamble 12112_Hamble_Families Hampshire West_Sep_Oct edition.indd 1 familiesonline.co.uk

Families10/08/2018 Hampshire 14:40 West 15

Fantasy and folklore for October half-term at Beaulieu Discover the fantasy and folklore of Halloween at Beaulieu this October halfterm, 20th - 28th. See the harvest festivalthemed decorations in Palace House, and immerse yourself in autumnal activities. In the Victorian Kitchen watch the cook bake traditional soul cakes. Younger visitors can have their face painted and enjoy arts and crafts activities.

Follow the All Hallows trail around the Beaulieu attraction, discovering fascinating seasonal facts as you go and learning about the origins and folklore of Halloween and All Hallows Day. Then search for the spiders and listen to costumed guides tell chilling ghost stories. www.beaulieu.co.uk/events 5 – 7 October Tabby McTat Theatre Royal Winchester Jewry Street, SO23 8SB

Interwoven with original songs, Tabby McTat is the heart-warming tale of friendship and loyalty. Fri 4pm, Sat 10.30am, 1pm & 3.30pm, Sun 10.30am & 1pm. £14.

6 October Southampton Farmer’s Market Oxford Street 10am - 2pm

6 October Nearly New Sale Fareham & District NCT Titchfield Community Centre Titchfield, PO14 4AB

Quality second hand clothes, toys and equipment for babies and children. 10am-11.30am.

6 October Me & My Bee The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE

A new comedy for children and adults. Plant the seed for change, join the bee party. 2pm. £8 & £6

6 October Be a Chorister Afternoon Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS

A free event to enable boys in school years 2-6 to experience what life could be like as a Cathedral Chorister. Pre-booking is essential, email choirs@winchester-cathedral. org.uk

6 & 7 October Young Herbert’s Horrors Nuffield Southampton Theatres Southampton, SO17 1TR

Young Herbert is a little horror.

Living on a boat should be the ideal life for a wannabe pirate, but the

boat’s grounded until Herbert can learn to tidy his cabin, eat his greens and be more polite. Ages 4-9. 11am & 2pm. £7.

6 & 7 October Hampshire Harvest Weekend Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS

Join us for live music, children’s activities, vintage tractors, falconry displays, farm animals, horsedrawn wagon rides, Hampshire Fare market, local beers and ciders and, new for this year, a vintage food van offering delicious hot food, wonderful cakes and scones. Free.

6 – 14 October (weekends) Theme: Sci-Fi Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ

To celebrate World Space Week 2018, Winchester Science Centre will be delivering live sci-fi shows exploring the science behind the fiction and answering some of your questions! Do aliens exist? How would their spaceships be powered?

And if you’re lucky, you may stumble across some familiar faces from your favourite sci-fi films & TV shows!

Admission: £11 per person.

12 - 14 October Moorcroft in The Garden Trail Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA

Moorcroft is said to be one of the world’s finest art potteries. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Download and print your trail at home for free, or available from the ticket desk for 50p.

13 October Painted Inspirations Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA

Use your garden inspired ideas and pretend to be a Moorcroft artist. Get creative in our art studio. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Drop-in between 11am - 4pm. £1.50pp, garden admission applies

13 & 14 October The Tiger Who Came to Tea The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE

Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! Saturday 1pm & 3.30pm, Sunday 11am & 2pm. Tickets £14

13 & 14 October Head in the Clouds Nuffield Southampton Theatres Southampton, SO17 1TR

It’s a windy day when The Puppet Man arrives to put on a show. His magical hat blows away and goes on a journey giving daydreams to everyone who wears it. Suitable for ages 3-9 years. 11am & 2pm. £7.

15 October Parenting Adolescent & Teenage Boys The Middle Brook Centre Winchester, SO238DQ

An evening looking at the key developmental attributes of boys this age and how parents can stay confident and maintain a good, respectful relationship with their sons. 7:30-9pm. £10 plus online booking fee, www. adolescentboyshope.eventbrite.co.uk

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Potions and Broomsticks

tober Half-term Discover more this Oc

20th - 28th October, 10am - 5pm A host of of spooky activities this half term!

To find out more about our fiendish fun, visit our website. www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm

beaulieu.co.uk Beaulieu | New Forest | Hampshire | SO42 7ZN

01590 612345 Open 10am daily Free Parking 16 Families Hampshire West

Normal farm admission charges apply.

www.hants.gov.uk

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18 October Henry’s Autumn Fair Henry Beaufort School Harestock, Winchester, SO22 6JJ

Pop along to Henry’s Autumn Fair.

A great selection of gifts, raffles and food! 4–7pm. 50p per adult, children free.

19 – 21 October Autumn Steam Gala The ‘Watercress Line’ Alresford, SO24 9JG

There will be lots of steam trains, including visiting guest engines and lots of trips included in this year’s Autumn Steam Gala. The miniature railway will also be running at Ropley. Adults £25, Child (aged 2-16 yrs) £13, Child under 2 free.

21 October Family Stone Age Archaelogy Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA

Join us at our purpose built trench in the woods to get muddy and find hidden treasures from ages past. Suitable for 4 -12 years when accompanied by an adult. 1.30pm – 4pm. £12.50 for 1 adult & 1 child.

22 October Woodland Stories Youth Options Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton SO30 3HQ

A woodland group for parents and 2+ year olds with activities, crafts and games themed to the book Funny Bones. 10-11.30am. £5.

23 October Character Days: The Gruffalo Adventure Wonderland Christchurch, BH23 6BA

Come along to Adventure Wonderland and meet Bing and Flop! Normal admission charges apply.

22 & 23 October How to Hide a Lion Theatre Royal Winchester Jewry Street, SO23 8SB

Mon 1.30pm & 4pm, Tue 10.30am & 1.30pm. £15

25 October Alice in Wonderland The Point Eastleigh, SO50 9DE

Let’s All Dance returns with a fabulous family favourite. Stunning dance and much-loved characters bring the famous tale to life. 11am & 2pm. Tickets £8 & £6.

27 October Storytime The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE 10.30am.

FIREWORKS DISPLAYS 27 October Fireworks Spectacular Beaulieu New Forest, SO42 7ZN

One of the largest firework displays in the south, choreographed to music with a range of entertainment for the whole family. Arrive early and enjoy the attractions of Beaulieu before fireworks and live entertainment. For a great

Half term fun at Paultons Park Visit Paultons Park this autumn and enjoy more than 70 wonderful rides and attractions included in the admission price.

Happy Halloween returns and welcomes two spooktastic new attractions on selected dates throughout October. The Legend of Paultons Manor is a spook-tacular theatrical show that follows the exploits of the Spirit Squad with spectacular illusions and slapstick comedy. The Big Boo Barns offers ghoulishly delightful farmyard fun for the whole family with mysterious and entertaining treats including Cornelius Corn and Professor Pumpkin!

There is now even more fun over in Peppa Pig World with the addition of two enchanting new rides, The Queen’s Flying Coach Ride and Grampy Rabbit’s Sailing Club. Don’t forget to visit Lost Kingdom, where dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes greet you at every turn. Take a Jurassic jeep expedition and ride two world class family coasters Flight of the Pterosaur and Velociraptor! www.paultonspark.co.uk value extra charge enjoy old time fairground entertainments, including a big wheel, gallopers and a coconut shy. We’re all set to make this a firework party to remember.

Fireworks from 7.30pm. Normal admission charges apply

4 November Fireworks Display Totton & Eling Cricket Club Southern Gardens, Totton, Southampton, SO40 8RW

To keep you fully entertained, we have a host DJ, children’s fairground rides and stalls, bars and hot refreshments. Entry from 4.30pm,

show starts at 6.30pm. Advance tickets from £5.50 per single or £17.00 per family (2 adults and up to 3 children).

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presents

New interactive Explorer:Space zone now open!

Extra activities and science shows every weekend, free with entry I Book online 3 days in advance and save 25%

01962 863 791

winchestersciencecentre.org www.winchestersciencecentre.org 01962 863 791 familiesonline.co.uk

Families Hampshire West 17

to find them all, and make your own miniature one to take home.10am – 5pm. Normal admission charges apply. £1 per trail.

20 – 28 October October Half Term Fun Beaulieu New Forest, SO42 7ZN Spooky stories, mythical creatures, and hidden spiders, to face painting, creative crafts and the ‘All Hallows’ trail! Normal admission.

21 October Halloween Steam Up The Brickworks Museum Swanwick Lane, SO31 7HB Engines and activities with a ghostly theme for children of all ages. Adults £7, Conc £6, Children £4, Family £18.

Halloween events & October Half Term 15 October – 4 November Halloween Family Trail Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA Join us for creepy fun in the Gardens on this spooky self-guided trail.

Survive our tricks and receive a small chocolate treat. £2.50 per trail.

19 October – 5 November Theme: Fireworks Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ Spark your curiosity in the fascinating world of fireworks! What makes them so colourful? Why are they so noisy? How are they all so different? Join us to find out on weekends and October half term. £11 per person.

20 – 28 October Time for Tea Half Term Trail Hinton Ampner Near Alresford, SO24 0LA This October half-term, try out the new family trail. Pick up our ceramics-inspired trail and explore the gardens. 10am – 3.30pm. £1 suggested donation

20 – 28 October Potions and Broomsticks Manor Farm & Country Park Bursledon, SO31 1BH Help to make a potion in our witch’s cauldron, test your broomstick flying skills, visit witch’s wardrobe dressing up area, and play some ghoulish games in the activity barn. A special best Halloween costume and join in the fun!

20 - 28 October Halloween Fun Adventure Wonderland Christchurch, BH23 6BA Adventure Wonderland will become the Home of Halloween this half term.

20 – 28 October Boo at the Zoo Marwell Zoo Colden Common, SO21 1JH Spooky Halloween activities available. Normal admission apply.

20 – 28 October Spot the Scarecrows Mottisfont, Near Romsey, SO51 0LP Different scarecrows are hiding all around the grounds… follow the trail

Boo at the zoo!

Visit Marwell Zoo during October half term and take part in their spooky activities before Halloween. Their resident wizard is putting trainee flyers through their paces to earn their Level 3 broomstick license. Sessions last 20 minutes and take place each day in the ‘flying arena’ on the front lawn of Marwell hall on a first come first served basis. Join, Esme, the scary witch at 11am, 1pm and 3pm for some creepy storytelling in the Haunted Hall. Plus, create your very own spellbinding wand (£1 fee applies).

Visitors can enjoy a range of daily animal talks, plus, take part in Marwell’s popular Explorers Trail collecting stamps of your favourite animals! With five adventure playgrounds, a free road train and rail train, there’s plenty to occupy your little ones whilst you relax and soak up the surroundings. www.marwell.org.uk 18 Families Hampshire West

22 October – 26 October Half Term Holiday Club Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ A science-themed holiday club for children age 5 - 9 years old.

Activities will include creating and running experiments, physical and mental games and challenges and arts-based activities to help explore and explain the world around us.

22 – 28 October It’s Frightfully Fun at The Farm Longdown Activity Farm Ashurst, SO40 7EH There’s a whole week of spooky stuff to see and do on the run up to Hallowe’en. Children who arrive in spooky fancy dress will be given entry at £5 each.

22 October Ghostly Goings-On Tudor House & Gardens, Southampton, SO14 2AD Creep into Tudor House to create your own ghostly t-shirt, venture down into the cellar with Andy to discover the real stories of the spooky inhabitants! Ages 5-11yrs.

10.30am-1pm, £8.

22 October Monster Masks!

Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO14 7LP Spooky Halloween fun session.

10.30am-12.30pm, £4.

23 October Halloween Cake Decorating Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA Explore the art of Sugarcraft with C&C’s Sweet Treats. Suitable for 7+ years. All materials are provided. £12 for 1 adult & 1 child.

23 October Monster Mash Up SeaCity Museum Southampton, SO14 7FY Let your creativity flow during this sculpture workshop and join us to dissect and reassemble some old toys into truly horrific hybrids!

10.30am-3pm , £18 , ages 7+.

23 October October Half Term: Little Owls Youth Options Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton SO30 3HQ Ofsted registered outdoor based childcare for your child aged between 3 - 5 years old. 8.30am 4pm. £35 full day, £17.50 half day.

23 & 24 October Two-Day Musical Theatre Workshop Mayflower Theatre Southampton, SO15 1GE Two-day workshop for ages 7 - 11.

Explore music, movement and drama to create our very own musical to show back to friends and family at the end of the second day.

9.30am – 3.30pm. £45 for both days.

24 October Woodland Stories Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton SO30 3HQ A woodland group for parents and 2+ year olds with activities, crafts and games themed to the book Pumpkin Soup. 10-11.30am. £5 24 October Sing It! In a Day Theatre Royal Winchester Jewry Street, SO23 8SB Go from score to stage and become a musical master as you learn hit songs from musicals in just one day!

Ages 8-18. 10am start, performance 5pm. £50.

24 October Shimmery Stained Glass Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS Pick up a trail from the entrance desk and discover the beautiful shimmering stained glass that can be found around the Cathedral.

Children under 16 go free but must be accompanied by an adult.

24 October Gormley Zombies Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO14 7LP To celebrate Gormley’s Diver sculpture returning to the Gallery, we will be making suitably scary zombies inspired by this and other sculptures in our collection. Ages 7 13 years. 10.30am-3.30pm, £20.

24 October Rampaging Romans SeaCity Museum Southampton, SO14 7FY Make your own helmet, create a mosaic, explore how the Romans heated their homes and discover a pirate who became an emperor!

Ages 5-11 years. 10.30am-12.30pm or 1.30-3.30pm.

25 October Milkshake! Live Theatre Royal Winchester Jewry Street, SO23 8SB Starring Milkshake! favourites; this all singing, all dancing, musical masterpiece, will take audiences on a journey through the world’s favourite fairy tales. 11.30am & 2.30pm. Adults £18, Children 16.50 25 October Lily and the Albatross Forest Arts Centre New Milton, BH25 6DS A tale of wild weather, wild birds and wild ambitions for ages 5+ with large bespoke wooden and metal puppets, live music and stories that speak to all generations. 11am & 2.30pm. From £7.

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25 October Tabby McTat The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ Tabby McTat is a cat with the loudest of meee-ews and a best friend with a guitar. 1.30pm & 4.30pm. Tickets from £9.

25 October Toddler Time – Trick or Treat Bags Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO14 7LP Little ghouls will shriek with delight as they design their own trick-ortreat bag, ready for Halloween!

18months-5yrs. 10.30-11.30am, £4 25 October Pigments and Potions Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO14 7LP What did artists use to paint with centuries ago? Find out and have a go at mixing your own colourful potions. 10.30am or 1.30pm, £6.50, 7-13 years.

25 October Junior Forest School Youth Options Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton SO30 3HQ A woodland group for 5 - 10 years olds with their families (younger siblings welcome). Activities based on a Halloween theme and will include a campfire. 9.30am 12.30pm. £10 25 – 27 October Tidy Up Nuffield Southampton Theatres Southampton, SO17 1TR Celebrating the chaos and mess and the joy of neatness, this

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dance theatre show is a journey of discovery through patterns, order and mischievous muddles.

An unforgettable party for the half term! 11am & 2pm. Tickets £12.

26 October Spooky Science Forest Arts Centre New Milton, BH25 6DS Expect pumpkins, potions and sparks and spectres, demonstrations to make you gasp, specimens to capture the imagination and equipment you may never have heard of, let alone seen. 11.30am & 2pm. Tickets from £7 26 October Shakespeare in a Day Theatre Royal Winchester Jewry Street, SO23 8SB Enjoy workshops with leading Shakespearean practitioners as you explore original text through a variety of performance skills and techniques. 10am start, performance 5pm. £50. Ages 12+ 26 October Family Workshop Mayflower Theatre Southampton, SO15 1GE Join us for a fun filled family workshop. Using exciting drama games, song and plenty of pretend your children will use their imagination to explore stories and bring them to life! 10–11.30am. £4.50 26 October Friendly Ghost Tours Tudor House & Gardens Southampton, SO14 2AD Our family-friendly ghost tours will explore the spooky stories of

Tudor House Halloween and Night at the Museum Bring your little monsters to Tudor House - the home of Halloween on Friday 26 October from 10am 8pm. Meet our friendly sprits in the banqueting hall, have your face painted and create creepy craft items. Why not pre-book one of our spooky ghost tours? Or one of our fantastically fun Halloween activities. Small charges will apply for activities and tours.

Fancy dress very much encouraged.

There’s plenty of workshops and activities for all ages, visit the website for more information www.tudorhouseandgarden.com Tudor House as you creep up to the spooky attic and into the deep, dark cellars. Bring torches for added fun!

10.30am, 11.30am, 2pm or 3pm / Tudor House / £3 Adult, £2 Child.

Listen to stories of ghostly goings-on on this spooky, kid-friendly tour with Dr Andy Russel. Please bring a torch with you to ward off ghosts! Ages 5+ 2-4pm / £7.50 Adult, £6 Child.

26 October Spooky Ghost Tours Tudor House & Gardens Southampton, SO14 2AD Meet the spirits of Tudor House in our fun ghost tours, with added jumps and frights! Younger children might prefer our Friendly Ghost Tours. Bring torches. Ages 7+. 4pm, 5pm, 6pm or 7pm. £3 Adult, £2 Child.

28 October Children’s Halloween Party Totton & Eling Cricket Club Totton, SO40 8RW Come along and enjoy music and fun at our popular Children’s Halloween Party – featuring ‘Magic Jack!’. Hot and cold refreshments and bar meals will be available.3–6pm. £3 per child, £2 per member’s child.

27 & 28 October Wizard Weekend The ‘Watercress Line’ Alresford, SO24 9JG Adults £17, Children (aged 2-16 yrs) £9, Children under 2 free.

31 October Halloween at Monkey World Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre Nr Wareham, BH20 6HH Free entry for children in full Halloween fancy dress. Free fancy dress competition with prizes, as well as the Activity Centre open for children.

28 October Family Halloween Tea & Tour Tudor House & Gardens Southampton, SO14 2AD

Families Hampshire West 19

at Tudor House & Garden Friday 26 October, 10am-8pm

e t a l l a i Spec ing! open

FREE ADMISS ION

• SPOOKY FAMILY FUN • CRAFT ACTIVITIES • GHOST TOURS • FANCY DRESS ENCOURAGED! To find out more call 023 8083 4536 or visit www.tudorhouseandgarden.com

20 Families Hampshire West

*Small fees apply to craft activities & tours. Hourly Ghost Tours can be pre-booked, call 023 8083 4536.

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