Families Leeds & West Yorkshire Jan/Feb 24 PRINT

EEHome FTRake Me

Leeds & West Yorkshire

IN THIS ISSUE

Education Family-friendly festivals Clubs and Classes Issue 92 January/February 2024 Familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 1

Give your child the brightest start in September 2024

*All school-run clubs included in fees

Here’s what parents of our pupils have to say...

“The best thing about Brontё is how happy it makes my child” “The before and after school clubs* mean that I can work without worrying about child care” “Since coming to Brontё, my child has blossomed” Discover for yourself what makes Brontё House so special. Join us on Sat 9th March for our Open Morning

BRONTË HOUSE SCHOOL

Apperley Bridge, Bradford BD10 0PQ Tel: 0113 250 2811

Wed 14 Feb • 2pm

Register at woodhousegrove.co.uk/admissions

Thu 15 Feb • 2pm & 4pm Fri 16 Feb • 11am & 2pm

Sun 18 Feb • 11am & 2pm

0113 376 0318

carriageworkstheatre.co.uk 2 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

Familiesonline.co.uk

CONTENTS

Contents 4-5

News

6

Family festivals

8-9

Clubs & classes

10

Interview

11

Health

12

Education news

13

Preparing for SATs

14

Reader review

15

What’s On

Welcome

Contact us Editor Claire Bottomley Editor@familiesleeds.co.uk 07799 667041

Happy New Year!

Facebook/familiesleedsmag IG @familiesleedsmag X @familiesleeds

This product is made of material from well-managed, FSC®-certified forests and other controlled sources.

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

Award-winning Toddler Sense classes available in North Leeds

B NOOO WK !

January and February have a reputation as bleak months when ‘nothing much happens’.

As a busy parent, I have to ask: what’s not to love about that?

I mean, I can’t say I’ve spent much of the last year yearning for more stuff to happen. “If only there was more happening!” said no parent ever.

Happen I’m a grumpy old Yorkshire woman, but two months with just the standard timetable of family life, just the average 10 days-worth of activity crammed into seven every week, is fine by me.

It’s an absolute privilege to see children grow up and be part of their adventures. But in these quieter winter months, hopefully we’ll all get a bit of time to just be. Often, down time at home together is the most precious of all.

Claire Bottomley, Editor

A session made up of two parts allow toddlers to explore adventure playtime on bouncy castles, soft play, ride ons and more. Followed by themed sensory activities with puppet shows, interactive games and light shows.

Each week there is different equipment and a different theme; meaning both toddlers and grown ups are never bored!

For ages 13 months to 5 years

Siblings under 13 months are FREE!

Text Lou on 07870275916 www.toddlersense.com/northleeds 01943 603829 I www.clipnclimbilkley.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 3

NEWS Dr Charlotte Armitage

No Phones at Home Day Smart phones and devices are an intrinsic part of our daily lives.

However, the rise in mental health issues amongst children and young people has been significant in recent years.

No Phones at Home Day was founded by Leeds psychologist and psychotherapist, Dr Charlotte Armitage and it takes place on January 20.

Through her own observations from working with families, young children, educators, and those in the media, Charlotte could see the negative impact the increasing use and reliance on smart devices was having on psychological, mental, and emotional wellbeing and development.

“Recent studies show up to 91% of 11-year-olds own a smart phone. We know that there is a healthier way of utilising these important resources, which doesn’t have such a negative impact on the essential foundations of a happy, healthy family life,” she said.

No Phones at Home Day is an opportunity for families to set some dedicated time aside away from devices. Create time for reflection and set a conscious boundary to enjoy screen free time to talk, listen, dance, bake, walk, swim, play games – the list is endless.

The aim of the No Phones at Home initiative is to support healthy psychological development by encouraging boundaries and limits on device.

Introducing the Waterproof and Wellies Project

The Outdoor Guide Foundation was set up with the simple aim of making the outdoors accessible to all - and that starts with children.

Nearly one third of primary school children in the UK come from families that are living below the poverty line. This means there is little money for household essentials, let alone for buying suitable clothing for outdoor play. That’s where The Waterproof and Wellies Project comes in. Over the next five years, it aims to donate at least ten waterproof suits and wellies to every state primary school in the country - all twenty thousand of them.

Why? Because time outside is vital and there’s a startling statistic that suggests prisoners get more time outside in an average week than a child of primary school age. Waterproof and Wellies has already donated kits to more than three hundred schools. With the support of local families and business, the project can do much more.

To find out more at www.theoutdoorguidefoundation.org

For more information, visit www.nophonesathome.com

WIN a family ticket to Camp Bestival!

WIN

One lucky family has the chance to score a family ticket to Camp Bestival.

This four-day safe, fun, magical and adventurous festival for kids of all ages, takes place during the summer holidays in both Dorset and Shropshire.

Multi award-winning and designed specifically for families, enjoy hundreds of activities from bushcraft, circus schools, sports and immersive theatre to incredible live acts and DJs, family raves, circus spectaculars, wellness, award-winning street food and cabaret. www.campbestival.net Apply at familiesmag.co.uk/go T&Cs: www.bit.ly/cmpbest

4 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

Expect a warm welcome from Chilly Powder A trip to the Alps is perfect in winter or summer. Francesca, Paul and their three children live in Morzine in France all year round and have a good knowledge of Alpine traditions and the Morzine people.

Having adapted their chalet holiday style over the years to suit the tastes of their regular guests, they offer the perfect ski and summer holidays for either families, couples or mixed groups in relaxing luxury, with fantastic food and outstanding facilities, as well as unrivalled in-house childcare facilities.

For many returning guests, Chilly Powder is considered a real home from home.

For more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter visit www.chillypowder.com

Familiesonline.co.uk

NEWS

Unbeaten girls football team take boys league by storm

Clay modelling, magic and more at Carriageworks

The only all-girls under-12s football team in a West Yorkshire league has proved gender has no boundaries in football.

There are lots of fun family events planned at Carriageworks Theatre in Millennium Square, Leeds during half-term.

GT Sports Girls Under-12s has taken on the boys' league in Garforth and remained unbeaten in their first eight games.

The Garforth League, traditionally male-dominated, has nine divisions operating across Wakefield and Leeds, and now its only all-girls team has shown they can hold their own against the boys.

Morgan and West’s Massive Magic Show for Kids Conjures capers, mysterious magic tricks, larger than life laughs, and fantastic facial furniture on February 14. Then on February 15 and 16, inspired by the touching children’s story by Oscar Wilde, The Selfish Giant explores an unusual friendship, and discovers how even the grumpiest giant’s heart can melt when spring finally comes.

In their inaugural season they were positioned in Division 5 to assess their ability and to ensure the level was competitive. So far the team, who play home games in Woodlesford, haven’t lost and currently sit second in the league.

With a record of four wins and two draws so far and two wins in the cup, the team has captured the hearts of local parents and become an inspiration for girls and boys alike. The girls also play exhibition games against local Emerging and Regional Talent Centres and have so far remained unbeaten in both.

Finally, on February 18, award-winning Indefinite Articles presents its work for the very young: Claytime – a play with clay where audiences are invited to participate.

Go to a place where the earth’s natural material meets children’s imaginations, inciting a world of fabulous forms, amazing animals, and morphing monsters. Each Claytime is totally unique, creating its own world, characters and stories drawn directly from its young audience. www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk

Ages 8+ National Geographic Science Kit Bundles Giveaway

T&Cs apply

Educational * Immersive * Interactive

Discovery and hands-on learning

Worth £77 each

Geodes Kit Glow in the Dark Science Kit Gemstone Dig Kit 3 bundles available

APPLY at familiesmag.co.uk/go Familiesonline.co.uk

Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 5

FESTIVALS

Top family-friendly festivals for 2024 Time to plan ahead! The UK has loads of family-friendly festivals happening this year and, from music and comedy to food and drink, there’s really something for all ages. Some festivals offer plenty of activities for little ones to enjoy, as well as great music line-ups, whilst others are dedicated solely to family entertainment and activities. Here is our selection of some of the stand-out festivals with dates to help you plan.

Just So Rode Hall, Cheshire 16-18 August Gone Wild Festival Powderham Castle, Exeter 22-24 August and Holkham Hall, Norfolk 8-11 August

Celebrating the great outdoors with fabulous music alongside family-friendly, outdoor activities for all ages. Where else can you push your mum down a 50m mud slide, learn new survival skills then dance the night away? Activities include kayaking, Nerf battles, circus workshops, high ropes, tree-climbing, adventure art and more. www.gonewildfestival.com

This weekend-long camping festival aims to help families make memories together in the great outdoors whilst enjoying the very best music, theatre, circus, storytelling and much more. Child-friendly loos, baby change facilities, breastfeeding tent and even a bath time tent, offer families practical assistance, while attractions include an exhaustive range of activities and workshops for kids. www.justsofestival.org.uk

Victorious Festival Southsea, Portsmouth 23-25 August

Set on the stunning Southsea seafront, this festival not only features some of the biggest names of the UK music scene during its three day run, but it also has a great comedy line-up with some big names. A newly expanded Kids’ Arena offers face painting, zip wires, skate sessions and family activities, all of which are free. www.victoriousfestival.co.uk

Gloworm Festival Holme Pierpoint Country Park, Nottinghamshire 16-18 August

Festival of Sport Venue and dates to be confirmed Festival of Sport is the ultimate family sports festival, with entertainment, camping, competitions and coaching from world-class sporting legends for kids ages 5 to 17.

Sports on offer range from hockey, rugby, netball, cricket and football to kayaking, golf, trampolining, lacrosse, boxing, skateboarding and climbing. www.festivalofsportuk.com

Standon Calling Standon Lordship, Hertfordshire 25-28 July

An independent boutique music and arts festival with big acts and emerging talent which features a whole area dedicated to entertaining babies, kids and teenagers during the daytime. It also offers on-site baby sitting for evenings, a swimming pool and dedicated family campsites only ten minutes from the car park. www.standon-calling.com

Aimed at children ages 0 to 13, expect music, activities and arts all geared towards different age-groups. From well-known children’s artists and headline acts, through to a funfair, farmyard, facilities for families, meet-and-greets with their heroes and places to play, every corner of this festival is an incredible adventure for all ages. www.glowormfestival.co.uk

Deer Shed Festival Baldersby Park, North Yorkshire 26-29 July

Deer Shed is a three-day wonderland of music, arts, science and sport, set in beautiful North Yorkshire parkland. Choose from forest bathing, a circus masterclass, soft play, robotics, forensics, cinema and baby massage - there’s plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained. www.deershedfestival.com

6 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

Camp Bestival Lulworth Castle Dorset 25-28 July and Weston Park Shropshire 15-18 August

This award-winning festival is known for its diverse line up of musical acts and its wide range of family-friendly activities and entertainment. In addition to music, the festival offers a variety of other attractions, such as comedy performances, theatre, circus acts, workshops and interactive art installations. Some areas are specifically geared towards children’s activities. www.campbestival.net Familiesonline.co.uk

Inspiring

Vibe Performing Arts Academy

Young Minds

Impacting and inspiring children and young people for over 10 years. Developing artisic talent and producing professional theatrical productions.

Weekly classes and Saturday stage school.

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2020

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2021

NORTH INDEPENDENT SECONDARY SCHOOL OF THE YEAR

NORTH INDEPENDENT SECONDARY SCHOOL OF THE DECADE

For more information email info@vibeperformingarts.co.uk

www.vibeperformingarts.co.uk

Inspiring independent education for girls and boys aged 3-18 years. Join us at one of our open events. www.gsal.org.uk/events

Follow us on social media for updates VIBE.Performing Arts Academy vibe_performing_arts_leeds

Discover Silcoates offers a 3 - 18 co-educational experience, instilling children with a love of learning, a willingness to seize opportunities and to fulfil their potential.

At evolve medical based in Pudsey, I offer expertise in all areas of womens health, especially for women experiencing the perimenopause and menopause.

Many women don’t realise that the perimenopause can start in their early 40s with sleep disturbance, anxiety and brain fog as well as the more well-known symptoms. These symptoms can significantly impact on a woman’s quality of life and family life. To date, I have supported over 500 women by delivering patient centred care that is evidence based and tailored to her needs.

I also specialise in supporting businesses looking to increase awareness of the impact the perimenopause and menopause can have on women in the workplace and help develop policies to support women in need and retain highly skilled, experienced staff.

If I can help you, a loved one or your business, why not get in touch.

Apply now for entry in September 2024. Contact our friendly admissions team at:

admissions@silcoates.org.uk

01924 885245

SILCOATES.ORG.UK

Familiesonline.co.uk

To book an appointment contact us: Call 01132 576701 Email: info@evolvemedical.co.uk or ella@yorkshiremenopausedoctor.co.uk yorkshiremenopausedoctor.co.uk

Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 7

CLUBS & CLASSES

Clubs & Classes Directory

Don’t forget to say you saw them in Families Leeds & West Yorkshire magazine.

Music Bugs

Babyballet® Leeds North

Little Seedlings

Sensory, play-based music and singing classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

Little Seedlings run pregnancy, baby and toddler classes that focus on development in a fun, easy way.

The 40 minute sessions provide your children with a lovely opportunity to socialise and develop in a creative and stimulating environment.

Fun and informal dance classes for ages 18 months to 6 years. Through an imaginative syllabus children are taught basic ballet steps but will have fun expressing themselves whilst developing skills such as balance, co-ordination, rhythm and more! Classes in Alwoodley, Yeadon, Bramhope and Rawdon.

Call 0844 5781043

leedsnorth@babyballet.co.uk

lucy@littleseedlingsuk.com

Musicbugs.co.uk

babyballet.co.uk

littleseedlingsuk.com

Tumble Tots

Vibe Performing Arts

Toddler Sense

Classes available in North Leeds.

Classes are available for children from 13 months to five years. Explore adventure play time on bouncy castles, soft play, rides and more. Enjoy themed sensory activities with puppet shows, interactive games and light shows. Different equipment and theme each week.

Sarah.cowgill@tumbletots.com

Weekly classes: a creative explosion of acting, singing and dancing in a fun friendly environment. Foundation level training, with opportunities to perform in the ensemble.

Saturday Stage School: Children and young people are encouraged and guided into performing at a higher level.

Opportunities for principal roles. info@vibeperformingarts.co.uk

tumbletots.com/harrogate

vibeperformingarts.co.uk

toddlersense.com/northleeds

Children explore and develop their physical skills by climbing, balancing, jumping and rolling on brightly coloured bespoke equipment. Sessions tailored to the needs of babies from six months to seven years. See their confidence soar!

Each class includes messy play, rhymes and activities that cover all areas of learning, focusing on both the adult and child.

Text Lou on 07870265916 or email northleeds@toddlersense.co.uk

Your Club or Class Here?

Leeds & West Yorkshire

Pyjama Drama Mirfield and Huddersfield Educating young children through drama and imaginative play to develop their life skills. Offering classes, parties and performances for children up to seven years. In every class children sing, dance, play drama games and pretend.

Call 07933 009330 aileen@pyjamadrama.com

pyjamadrama.com 8 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

Debutots

Would you like to promote your club or classes in our next issue and reach 1,000s of local parents?

Email Claire for more information at editor@familiesleeds.co.uk

Providing interactive storytelling and dramatic play sessions for ages six months to seven years.

Fun, exciting classes develop children's language skills, promote their confidence and creativity.

Family Story Play Friday mornings at Jackaboos Playgym Farsley. Other venues available early 2024.

Call 0113 8591130 debutots.co.uk/leedswestandcentral Familiesonline.co.uk

CLUBS & CLASSES

Clubs & Classes News

Youth Theatre wins tuition funding Vibe Youth Theatre in Leeds has received funding for children and young people to have free vocal and performance tuition.

The company, which recently performed at Leeds Corn Exchange, wowed audiences with stunning vocals and dancing, showcasing their talent with a wide range of numbers, including Silent Night, I Wanna Dance With Somebody, Singin’ in the Rain and What a Wonderful World.

“I’m so proud of the children and young people,” said director Louise Timmins. “The feedback from audiences is amazing. And there are exciting times ahead in 2024, with another professional production in the planning.”

Classes take place in Headingley (Mondays), Adel (Tuesdays) and Abbey Grange Academy (Saturdays).

You can get in touch to reserve a trial or book a free course of classes by emailing info@vibeperformingarts.co.uk.

Spotlight on Debutots Debutots provides award-winning interactive storytelling and dramatic play sessions for children aged from six months to seven years.

The fun and exciting classes develop children's language skills and help to promote their confidence and creativity. They arm parents and carers with ideas to explore with your child at home and provide lots of fun along the way.

Classes are guaranteed to inspire and amuse you and your little ones. Best of all, the story is completely different every single week. Classes take place on Fridays at Jackaboos Playgym in Farsley, with more coming soon.

For more information, visit debutots.co.uk/leedswestandcentral

The magic of Music Bugs Music Bugs is a one-stop shop full of fun for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.

The award-winning interactive, play-based classes feature nursery rhymes, action songs, knee bouncers, instrument songs, parachutes, puppets, counting mitts, bubbles, dinosaur tales, horses and a huge range of multi-sensory props.

Classes are held every weekday at various locations in Leeds.

Baby Bugs classes are for ages four weeks to one year (non crawlers). They are a chance to enjoy spending special time with the adult who takes them to class, creating lovely memories while learning new songs to sing at home.

Family Bugs classes are suitable from eight months to four years, where different aged siblings and children can play together. The class teacher will show different actions to songs that all the family can enjoy, no matter what age.

Mini Bugs is for ages six months to two years. It is a class where children can explore and play in an open, friendly environment.

For more information, visit www.musicbugs.co.uk/leeds

FREE MAGAZINES for your school, nursery, cafe, shop or club - just ask!

Baby Swimmers & Swimmers Academy Through fun and games at Baby Swimmers see your little one progress to a confident little swimmer!

Swimmers Academy lessons take children from beginner to advanced.

Whatever their age and ability. Survival skills, stamina and stroke techniques.

Number Train Number Train is a fun and interactive introduction to maths for preschool children designed and delivered by an experienced primary maths specialist.

With a different theme each week, sessions keep your child engaged with games, action songs, art and craft.

Call 0333 3355388

Call 07852 989523 numbertrain@hotmail.com

babyswimmers.co.uk

numbertrain.co.uk

Familiesonline.co.uk

Email editor@familiesleeds.co.uk with your details and the quantity required and we will deliver them to you.

Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 9

INTERVIEW

Helping children embrace the great outdoors Gemma Hunt, children’s storyteller and long-time presenter of CBeebies show Swashbuckle, tells Families about her role as ambassador for The Waterproof and Wellies Project for The Outdoor Guide Foundation (www.theoutdoorguidefoundation.org) and why she’s passionate about getting kids and families outside.

Tell us about The Waterproof and Wellies Project?

To motivate our daughter, we turn outside time into an adventure or give ourselves a purpose. Like going out to collect leaves or feathers for an art project or going on a litter pick.

We’re looking to raise £6m to provide ten sets of waterproof jackets, trousers and wellies to the twenty thousand state primary schools in the UK. Unfortunately around thirty percent of children do not own their own wellies. So having these sets in schools enables them to play outside in all weathers without ruining their shoes!

If we take her bike or scooter that usually stops the moans about her legs aching if we’ve walked too far!

What advice would you give to families whose access to green spaces is limited?

Why do you feel particularly passionate about this project?

Make the most of the outdoor spaces you do have access to. Take outdoor games if there is no play area. If it’s rainy, put your waterproofs on and take a flask of hot chocolate and a big umbrella!

I long for children to enjoy the physical, mental and spiritual value of getting outdoors more. It’s so good for their appreciation of our great British countryside, wildlife and nature.

I love to see my daughter play outside, climbing trees, investigating flowers and spotting insects, coming back with flushed cheeks and grubby knees!

On occasion, we’ve ruined clothing or footwear as we haven’t had the right gear with us BUT we’ve been able to replace them. This isn’t possible for all families so to have the right outerwear to enjoy time outside together is essential.

How do you think children’s experience of outdoor time today compares to yours as a child?

I don’t think we get outside as much as we used to – there are so many inside distractions. It used to be a treat to run around outside, play games and let off steam. Now children seem to view it more as a punishment as they’d often prefer to stay indoors connected to electronics and Wi-Fi.

What has The Waterproof and Wellies Project achieved so far?

Of course, we had more freedom to roam safely and I understand why we may not be so willing for our children to go out alone now but that is all the more reason to try and do so as a family.

How much time do you spend outside with your family?

Honestly, not as much as we should.

We do walk to school or play in the garden every day and we like to take our daughter out on her bike.

Luckily we live near the coast and great country parks like Betteshanger Park near Deal in Kent where we can walk, cycle and scoot. There’s also a great play area there and the most delicious café (I recommend the sweetcorn fritter burgers!).

Since Covid, we have donated more than three thousand sets of waterproofs and wellies to UK schools. We need more support from businesses and individuals as we’re still a way off our target and there are more than three hundred schools on the waiting list who are desperate for the gear.

You can see how you can support us at The Outdoor Guide Foundation website at www.theoutdoorguidefoundation.org You’re also a writer. Tell us about your new book.

My newest book is about helping children to express and deal with big feelings like anger, jealousy and frustration.

I understand the power of imitative behaviour and wanted to write something that children could read (or have read to them) that would inspire them to better manage their behaviour.

My favourite role model has been Jesus so I wanted to take some stories told by or about him and re-tell them from the perspective of a mixed race family like mine. My husband and daughter and my parents and I all appear in the stories.

What motivated you to write it?

I wanted to write a series of children’s books that represented our own mixed race family. I struggled to find good books for my daughter that depicted our family dynamic - so I wrote them! The first book is about encouraging children to be a good friend and is called See! Let’s Be A Good Friend; the newest one has five helpful short stories which explore emotions. It’s called See! Let’s Be ME and is available from www.bookshop.org

10 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

Familiesonline.co.uk

HEALTH

Meet the Yorkshire Menopause Doctor

By Claire Bottomley Busy mums often put their own health to the bottom of the priority list.

She added: “Women want to feel listened to by someone who understands. There’s a bit of a misconception around symptoms, with a strong focus on hot flushes and sweats. I think a lot of people still think it is defined by changes in your menstrual cycle. There are actually more than 50 symptoms, including sweats, and not everyone gets every symptom."

When it comes to perimenopause and menopause symptoms, it’s sometimes difficult to know where to turn, or feel confident you will be heard.

Dr Ella Russell understands first hand. She’s been a GP in Leeds and Bradford for more than 20 years. When a hysterectomy catapulted her into menopause, she struggled with sleep problems and memory loss and was unable return to work. She looked for help and advice and found there was a real lack of it.

“I thought, right, there’s a need for this, so I turned myself into a menopause doctor,” she said.

To date she has supported more than 500 women by delivering evidence based, person-centred holistic care.

While keeping her hand in as a GP, she now spends most of her time offering a bespoke service to women.

“It’s really, really rewarding because I get time to sit and talk and listen and

“When women come to me it is like working out a puzzle and fitting the picture together. It is one of the safest conditions to manage and it’s important for long term health, preventing things like osteoporosis and heart disease.”

understand and come up with a tailormade package,” she said. "I receive excellent feedback on the impact I have made in women’s lives.”

She added, “I’ve found it really empowering to see women come in and over the course of a few months be in such a different place. That is what I went into medicine for – to improve lives.”

Ella also advises forward thinking businesses who wish to support women and colleagues in raising awareness of the impact that the perimenopause and menopause have in the workplace.

Dr Ella Russell is based at Evolve medical in Pudsey, Leeds. For more information or to book an appointment, email: info@evolvemedical.co.uk, or ella@yorkshiremenopausedoctor. co.uk

Familiesonline.co.uk

Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 11

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

The Grammar School at Leeds Shaping Success: named school of the year by the Sport and Performing Art Sunday Times Pathways The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) has been named the Sunday Times’ North Independent School of the Year 2024.

The award was announced as part of the publication’s Parent Power guide. The accolade marks the third time GSAL has been recognised by the Sunday Times: GSAL was awarded the North Independent Secondary School of the Year in 2020 and of the decade in 2021.

The Sunday Times also praised the school’s generous bursary programme: GSAL spends more than £1 million providing at least 100 means-tested bursaries a year, with almost half of bursary students not paying any fees.

Principal Sue Woodroofe said: “This award is a true testament to the hard work of our students, staff and the wider GSAL community. It’s also recognition of the progressive steps we’ve taken in many areas: in our teaching and learning; in the investment we’ve made in our facilities; our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion; the depth and breadth of our co-curricular programme; our ambitious sustainability initiatives and so much more.”

GSAL caters for students aged 3-18 and holds open events throughout the year. www.gsal.org.uk

School life at King’s Magna near York is about experiencing a breadth of activities for enthusiastic sports or performing arts students. Pathways hone their skills and prepare them for the next steps in their education and careers.

Two ‘pathways to success’ are available from Year 7 up.

The Performance Sport Pathway is available in basketball, cricket, football and netball. Each student benefits from an Individual Development Plan that comprises of coaching from ex-professionals, nutrition, strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, sports massage and the latest tactical, technical, physical and mental training.

The programme allows for competing at a higher level and teaches responsibility, resilience and leadership skills.

The ADA pathway supports students with auditions and improves skills in acting, musical theatre, comedy, stage combat, and a variety of dance styles.

Lessons are taught by specialist performing arts teachers, most of whom are also professionals, and are complemented by visiting performing arts workshops and LAMDA sessions.

All students can partake in school productions and co-curricular activities including dance, drama and music ensembles. www.qe.org

Exciting News at Brontë House There are important changes afoot at Brontë House, the junior school to Woodhouse Grove.

From September 2024, Brontë’s Reception children, currently housed in purpose-built Ashdown Lodge in the leafy grounds of the school, will be moving into the beautiful main Brontë House building. Considerable development is planned over the summer to create the perfect indoor and outdoor environment for these very important members of the school community.

The benefits of being physically part of the main school are many.

Reception will have science in the science labs, art in the art room, and music in the music studio. No longer based in just one classroom all day, every day, lessons will be brought to life - a change of environment will do wonders for concentration and foster independence, organisation and confidence.

Reception children will benefit from Brontë House’s specialist sports coaches and performing arts teachers. They will have

12 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

access to the school library, have lunch with their older peers and be able to see their Year 6 'buddies' every day, learning, by example, those all-important soft, social skills.

Learn more at the Brontë House Open Morning on Saturday, March 9. Register at woodhousegrove.co.uk/ admissions

Familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION

Supporting your child with SATs

By Jemma Z Smith By the end of their last academic year at primary school, children are usually very settled and are experiencing the privilege of being the oldest in the school. Then comes talk of SATs (Statutory Assessment Tests) which will happen in May. As a parent, it’s only natural to be concerned about your child’s academic progress and wellbeing. The key to helping your child succeed is to provide them with the right support, encouragement and a stress-free environment.

The Key Stage 2 SATs are standardised tests in the UK for children in their final year of primary school. These assessments check their understanding of key areas in core subjects (mathematics, reading comprehension and spelling, punctuation and grammar). The purpose of these tests is to measure school performance and to assess your child’s progress.

You might wonder whether it is necessary for your child to be impacted in a process partly designed to evaluate school performance. There are several reasons for this: first and foremost, the overall quality of education provided by a school significantly impacts your child’s learning experience.

Moreover, SATs results can offer valuable insights into areas where the school might need to improve, benefiting both current and future students.

Understanding the importance of SATs gives you the opportunity to advocate for your child’s success and make their transition to secondary education as smooth as possible.

Children should not be sitting mock SATs exams constantly in school as this can feel demoralising or stressful. However, they do need to see and experience a formal testing situation before the actual SATs exams, particularly if they have not been in one before. This can help to reduce the anxiety of the unknown.

At home, have open and honest conversations with your child about SATs. Explain that these tests are not about passing or failing but about measuring their growth and understanding their areas of strength and improvement. Setting up a structured daily routine that includes time for homework, study and relaxation can also help.

The KS2 SATs can be a source of anxiety both for parents and children but the right approach can help everyone navigate this period with confidence. The key is to reassure your child that you believe in their abilities and you are there to help them succeed.

Remember, the most important thing is that your child tries their best.

Jemma Z Smith is Director of The Education Hotel. For further advice, visit www.educationhotel.co.uk

Never want to miss another issue?

What do SATs consist of?

Reading comprehension. This includes one paper with at least three texts to read and comprehension questions. The texts will be a mixture of fiction and non-fiction and can include poetry.

SIGN UP NOW IT’S FREE

Spelling, punctuation and grammar (often abbreviated to SPaG or GPaS). This consists of two papers, one with twenty words to spell and one with questions focussed around grammar and punctuation. Students will be asked questions such as ‘identify the expanded noun phrase in this sentence’.

If your child knows the technical names for the grammar that we use in everyday speaking and writing, they will find this test much less daunting.

Mathematics. These papers assess arithmetic knowledge and problem-solving skills. There are usually three papers set over two days of SATs week. If your child has been able to consolidate their arithmetic knowledge, this will stand them in good stead for the subsequent two problem-solving and reasoning papers.

2024 KS2 SATs will start on Monday 13 May. Read more about them and see past papers at www.bit.ly/sats2024

Familiesonline.co.uk

Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 13

READER REVIEW

Reader Review

Reader Review: Loaf Our roving reviewer Jo Hadfield has been sampling the delights of a independent café in Headingley…

phenomenal cinnamon buns - they overspill nicely into one another.

Once known as Sebbys, this was a firm family favourite for many years; in no small part because it shared the name of my youngest's favourite zebra toy.

Imagine the excitement! Now it is Loaf; new management, new paint job and new menu.

It was super busy on Sunday when we went and as it is located just doors away from Fika - don't get me started on their

WINTER ❄

❄

FUN

Find these winter words in the grid.

Then read the remaining unused letters on the bottom three lines from left to right to find a secret message!

❄

hot chocolate ski frozen thaw ice puddle snowman robin scarf sled

❄

❄

{

❄

The menu at Loaf is small but decent, brunch served all day and a range of sandwiches and burgers. The coffee is very good, as you might expect from a Dark Woods stockist and there are a good range of cakes and sweet treats on the counter. They also do a children's fish finger sandwich the size of my head (and I have a large knapper) which we happily polished off when my youngest conceded defeat.

It might not hit the heady heights of Sebby's (they once let my sister build her own bloody Mary during a brunch trip-oh yes, they did) it’s still a relaxing place to eat out with the kids. And an added bonus? My two love watching the fancy dress students en route to some strictly family-free fun!

90-92 Otley Road, Headingley, Leeds LS6 4BA www.loafheadingley.com

❄

E C Y G S C A R F O R I F T L L A O U H O H Y E R K A N O D S S M A R W O A V L E R D O N G H O Z L U S O F R R L O C A E M E L K C E O N E W U N M E O A I O B B E T M K O E P E B R H A I N R A T G R I O C S C K N P C N I L M T B P I T H A V E L O T S O H F F O U N P U D D L E T H A I H S W I D E L S N T E R W

❄❄

14 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire

Whilst there is not a big menu, my eldest asked for the brunch roll from the regular menu without chilli jam and this was cheerfully done, meaning she thoroughly enjoyed her sausage, egg and hash brown sandwich. There's a box of toys to keep really little ones entertained too and the food was served quickly.

❄

Familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT'S ON

What's On

Carriageworks Theatre

Have you got an event you’d like to share with us? Email it to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times change. Please double check with the organiser to avoid disappointment.

ONGOING Gnome Roam at Newmillerdam Country Park This simple walking trail encourages children to use signs and clues to spot carved statues of gnomes and wildlife. You may even spot a gigantic bear.

Story and Rhyme at Leeds Libraries A fun session of sharing stories and rhymes in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. At various times at 32 local libraries on weekdays. FREE.

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday Castle Explorer Tour at Pontefract Castle Discover who built and lived in the castle and listen to stories of unfaithful Queens, imprisoned Kings as well the castle’s role in the English Civil Wars. All ages.

12-12.45pm.

Rory’s Saturday Club at Leeds City Museum Looking for something creative to do with kids in the city? Head to Leeds City Museum for Rory’s Saturday Club craft sessions for families with children of all ages.

FREE, drop in. 11am-12.15pm.

shakers, bubbles, dance battles and more. For children aged 0-4 years and their grown-ups.

January 13 to 20 Red Riding Hood at Lawrence Batley Theatre Huddersfield Huddersfield Light Opera Company are back with their 45th annual winter pantomime!

February 14 to 18 Madagascar the Musical at the Alhambra Theatre Bradford Join all your favourite characters as they escape New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey. Starring CBBC and Strictly Come Dancing star Karim Zeroual.

Saturdays Family Fun at Pontefract Museum Free, fun crafts and activities with different theme each week.

All activities and materials are provided. FREE and no booking required.

January 19 Dinky Disco at Lawrence Batley Theatre Gather up your mini movers and shakers for a daytime dance party for little ravers and their sleep deprived chaperones!

February 15 and 16 The Selfish Giant at Carriageworks Theatre Inspired by the touching children’s story The Selfish Giant by Oscar Wilde, discover how even the grumpiest giant’s heart can melt when spring finally comes.

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday (term time only) Storytime at The Little Bookshop, Chapel Allerton Enjoy a cosy story time featuring delightful books for young children.

For ages 2-5. 11- 11.25am. FREE.

Saturdays Family Fun at Wakefield Museum Free, fun crafts and activities with different theme each week.

All activities and materials are provided. FREE and no booking required.

Until January 27 Oliver! At Leeds Playhouse Consider yourself one of the family at Leeds Playhouse for Lionel Bart’s award-winning musical.

February 15 to 17 Zog at Leeds Playhouse Based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling sequel, with music and lyrics this a truly modern take on the classic fairy tale.

Toddler Tuesdays at Castleford Museum A lively session of storytelling, crafts and rhymes, inspired by a different museum object each week. 10-11am.

Saturdays Family Fun at Castleford Museum Free, fun crafts and activities with different theme each week.

All activities and materials are provided. FREE and no booking required

Every Monday and Wednesday Bounce and Rhyme at Leeds Libraries A fun session of sharing songs and rhymes with your baby in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

FREE. Monday - Central, Holt Park.

Wednesday – Headingley. 1.30pm.

Tuesdays and Thursdays Storytime for Under 5s at Truman Books in Farsley Take your little ones for a session of stories and songs in kids’ corner.

Suitable for under-fives. Tuesdays at 9.30am, Thursdays at 10.30am.

FREE. Thursdays, Create Together Family Friendly Art Group at New Wortley Community Centre A fun, relaxed art group, run by experienced art facilitators. This is a self-directed group, where participants are encouraged to work on their own projects and develop a self-sufficient practice.

3.30-5pm.

Fridays, Tiny Tigers at Leeds City Museum Creative, messy sessions for under 5s and their carers. Babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers welcome. FREE, drop in, no need to book.

10-11.45am.

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday Dungeon Tours at Pontefract Castle Soak in the atmosphere of this eerie underground space, discover the history of the dungeon and see where Civil War prisoners left to languish scratched their names into the rock. 10.45-11.30am.

Familiesonline.co.uk

Saturdays and Sundays Garden Play at The Hepworth Stack, build, experiment, draw and imagine with your family in the open air. No need to book, just turn up and play. 11am to 4pm. FREE.

DIARY DATES Thursdays until January 25 Create Together - Family-Friendly Art Group at New Wortley Community Centre A fun, relaxed art group, run by experienced art facilitators. This is a self-directed group, where participants are encouraged to work on their own projects and develop a self-sufficient practice.

Booking required. 3.30pm to 5pm.

Weekends until January 28 Winters of the World at Eureka!

A seasonal smorgasbord of songs, stories, science and silliness.

Discover why our calendar doesn’t add up, if Australians have Christmas in July and exactly where we pop out when we dig a hole directly from Halifax to the other side of the planet. Expect magic, mystery, mayhem and much more.

January 11 Hip Hop Rave for Pre-schoolers at Leeds City Museum Don your party outfits for this mini rave and have fun with pom-poms,

January 19-27 Jack and the Beanstalk at Carriageworks Theatre This ‘GIANT’ adventure is the pantomime you’ve BEAN waiting for!

February 12 to 17 The Tortoise and the Hare by Northern Ballet at Leeds Stanley and Audrey Burton Theatre The perfect introduction to live ballet and music, your little ones will be cheering along as a playful cast of characters re-tell this classic tale.

February 14 Morgan & West’s Massive Magic Show for Kids at Carriageworks Theatre Roll up, roll up! Morgan & West are back with a massive magic show for kids (and their childish grownups)!

February 16 Fireman Sam Live – The Great Camping Adventure at St George’s Hall Bradford Join Sam, Ellie, Elvis, Station Officer Steele and Norman in this UK premier, as you become a Pontypandy Pioneer and explore the mountains.

February 18 Claytime at Carriageworks Theatre Award-winning Indefinite Articles presents its work for the very young: Claytime – a play with clay where audiences are invited to participate.

Don't forget to say you saw these events listed in Families Leeds & West Yorkshire Magazine!

Get our digital mag!

Sign up at familiesmag.co.uk/go

IT’S FREE!

Families Leeds & West Yorkshire 15

king’s magna middle school, york

welcoming day & boarding students from years 6-9 as part of queen ethelburga’s collegiate

superb creative arts provision

220-acre rural estate

performance sports programme offered from year 7

excellent facilities over 100 clubs onsite

bus service from leeds

open mornings:

27th january & 9th march 2024 book your place at www.qe.org

admissions@qe.org - 01423 333333 Bridging the gap between primary & secondary, King’s Magna’s innovative KS3 curriculum best prepares students for GCSEs & A Levels.

In 2023, our senior schools achieved 80% A*/A in A Levels, 76% Distinction in BTECs & 63% 7-9 (A*/A) in GCSEs. 16 Families Leeds & West Yorkshire Familiesonline.co.uk