Families Solent East - Issue 54 Sept/Oct

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Issue 54

September/October 2014 www.familiessolenteast.co.uk

Back to School

Education news and advice after school clubs and classes competitions, family events and lots more inside...

Top tips for getting organised!

The essential local magazine for families with children aged 0 - 12

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XXXXXXX Welcome from the

Editor There’s something about this time of year - the new bright white school shirts, the unscuffed shoes and new school books, the return to routine after the spontaneity of the summer holidays.

It feels like a fresh start and about time I got myself organised!

So this year I do solemnly swear to have everything prepared the night before school, to keep our home in a reasonable state of tidiness and to absolutely always leave the house on time!

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Helping me out this year are some great ideas from parents on page 15, as well as lots of education news and advice, days out and some special photography tips from our cover photographer!

Mandy Earle | Editor

On the cover:

Niamh With thanks to Moira Lizzie Photography 07974 177445 www.moiralizzie.co.uk

Editor: Mandy Earle 02392 362737 editor@familiessolenteast.co.uk Advertising: Claire Clarricoates sales@familiessolenteast.co.uk Website and Social Media: Gemma and Kerry events@familiessolenteast.co.uk Distribution enquiries: 02392 362 737

Join us online for more news and competitions!

facebook.com/FSEmagazine twitter.com/FamiliesSolentE

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GROW! In this issue...

COOK! 4 8 9 EAT! 10

News and views How to create a dialogue with your school Can extra tutoring help your child?

Private school and nursery days 4 - open 5 October 12 Clubs and classes listing 15 Ideas for getting organised this autumn!

16 Family photography tips 17 What’s on guide 23 Competitions

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Call us on 02392 362 737 22,500 copies delivered straight to parents & carers

Copyright: Families Solent East 2014.

We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Families Group: Families Solent East is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All magazines in the Group are independently owned and operated under licence.

Covering Portsmouth, Fareham, Gosport, Waterlooville, Havant, Chichester, Midhurst, Petersfield & Isle of Wight

Confidence Building Fun Try a Free Drama Class

Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with our weekly classes for 4–12s Child development is at the heart of everything we do. So our drama, dance and singing sessions will boost your child’s confidence, improve their concentration and give them an outlet to have fun.

Call 0845 400 1317 or visit perform.org.uk for a free class at your nearest venue.

Families Solent East | September/October 2014 | 3

News & Views

Dean Edwards, ITV Day break chef

Launch of free school meals for all infants

October is International Walk to School Month. Each year, primary school pupils from across the UK join forces with children in more than 40 countries worldwide to celebrate the benefits of walking to school.

90% of parents who walk to school told how important this time is for spending quality time with their children. Over a third say that the journey to school is where they find out the most about their child’s life. Find out more at:

www.livingstreets.org.uk

A parent’s guide to depression

On behalf of charity the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust, the guide offers answers to all the most frequently asked questions parents have, plus guidance on what to do next.

A Parent’s Guide To Depression is filled with clear, practical advice for anyone concerned that their child has a mental health problem, tackling the challenges parents face such as how to distinguish between natural adolescent mood swings and depression, and ways to talk about your concerns with your child.

‘Parents are usually the first to notice that their child’s behaviour has changed,’ said Jackie Williams of the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust. ‘Often they feel powerless to help, particularly if their child is shutting themselves off from their family and the wider world.

But the good news is there are proven, practical strategies to help your child overcome their depression.’

The online version can be accessed at:

www.cwmt.org.uk/category/ parents-guide the more concise printed booklet can be downloaded at:

www.cwmt.org.uk/wp-content/ uploads/2014/05/parents-guideto-depression.pdf

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According to Schools Minister, David Laws, free school meals encourage healthy eating and their pilots have shown that ‘children in schools that offer universal free school meals are academically months ahead of their peers.’

The move has been welcomed by the Child Poverty Action Group who campaign for the abolition of child poverty in the UK. Alison Garnham, Chief Executive, commented: ‘The cost of bringing up children is rising faster than headline inflation, so a policy like this that saves families hundreds of pounds is going to be a big help.’

www.childrensfoodtrust.org.uk/ schoolfoodplan/uifsm

Learn to Read in 5 Weeks for FREE* with the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge!

From 20 August to 30 September your child can join thousands of children across the UK taking part in the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge – a nationwide effort to inspire children to read!

Readings Eggs provides a comprehensive range of online reading lessons and eBooks that teach children aged 3–13 the literacy skills needed for lifetime reading success. The reason why over 90% of parents using Reading Eggs report a noticeable improvement in their child’s reading skills is because the programme makes learning phonics and basic reading skills fun.

Sign up for our special 5 WEEK FREE trial* as part of the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge and see for yourself how your child’s reading improves by using Reading Eggs.

Simply register your child at www.readingeggs.co.uk/seast Registration is quick, easy and FREE! *Free trial only available to new customers who sign up at the above address. Not applicable for schools.

4 September/October 2014 | Families Solent East

West Dean’s Grow!

Cook! Eat (4 – 5 October) is a celebration of the best of the British harvest, with • the focus on seasonal • Children’s Activities and locally produced • TV Celebrity Guests food, including the impressive harvest • Food and Gardening Theatres from West Dean’s own orchards, • Live Folk Music Kitchen Garden and restored Victorian Early bird prices until 26 Sept glasshouses.

£8.50 The highlight of the weekend willAdult, £1 Child www.westdean.org.uk be a Cookery Theatre featuring #growcookeat demonstrations by celebrity chefs. ITV’s Daybreak chef Dean Edwards and This Morning chef Marcus Bean will play host to BBC’s Celebrity Masterchef contestant, astrologer Russell Grant.

Thane Prince, Preserves Judge on BBC2’s The Big Allotment Challenge, will be preparing jams and preserves.

Last year over 6,000 people came with family and friends to enjoy the live folk music programme which this year include ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent finalist Sam Kelly.

GROW! COOK! EAT!

For children there will be hands on workshops including making a musical instrument out of fresh vegetables and the hugely popular Copsewood will be running workshops on how to make a Pirate Ship.

Other attractions include a food market and over 50 stalls selling a range of foods, drinks and gardening products.

Adults from £8.50 (early bird until 26 Sept) Child £1. Book online now at

4 - 5 October 2014

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Dean Edwards, ITV Day break chef

Around one in ten young people will experience depression, stress or anxiety by the time they reach 18. But where can their parents turn to for help? This summer saw the launch of an essential guide for parents who might be worried that their child is depressed.

From September all Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 children will be entitled to a free and healthy lunch at school.

GROW! COOK! Grow! Cook! Eat! EAT!

•

www.westdean.org.uk

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News & Views The Spring goes on Tour!

Do you enjoy a good story? Do you love to dream? Do you believe in unicorns?

Join The Spring as it heads out on tour with I Believe in Unicorns, a delightful family theatre show about the power of storytelling and imagination – performed in your local library!

The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre is committed to bringing high-quality arts and heritage experiences to the people of Havant and is taking its work out beyond the walls and directly into the heart of the community.

The first event to head out on tour is I Believe in Unicorns by Wizard Presents, a magical one-woman adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s much loved tale about the power of books, stories and dreams. Currently playing in the West End, the show will be performed in three Havant libraries – Waterlooville, Leigh Park and Hayling Island – during October and is a unique opportunity for children and adults alike to see a story about books performed in a space full of books. To add to the magic, audience members are invited to bring a children’s book to become part of the set and then swap it for another to take home.

As well as the library performances, the show is playing at The Spring and Emsworth Community Centre. (See our What’s On pages for details of dates and times).

Tickets are just £3 for children and £5 for adults. For further information about the show or to buy ticket:

Learn to Read in 5 Weeks – for FREE! From 30 July to 30 September your child can join thousands of children across the UK taking part in the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge – a nationwide effort to inspire children to read!

This FREE event will give your child 5 WEEKS FREE* access to Reading Eggs – the online reading programme that teaches children aged 3 – 13 the literacy skills needed for lifetime reading success.

Sign up for your FREE trial* today and see for yourself how your child’s reading improves by using Reading Eggs.

Box Office 023 9247 2700 www.thespring.co.uk

The Hundred and One Dalmatians This Christmas, Chichester Festival theatre presents The Hundred and One Dalmations. Pongo and Missis Pongo, an adorable couple of canines, are fortunate enough to own Mr and Mrs Dearly, an adorable couple of humans. Their excitement can hardly be contained when Pongo and Missis become the proud parents of fifteen adorable puppies. Then along comes Cruella De Vil, the nastiest, cruellest villainess.

She’s enough to frighten the spots off any Dalmatian!

After Cruella orders her henchmen to steal the puppies, the desperate parents set off on a daring rescue mission. Will they, together with a couple of howling hounds, outwit their captors?

The award-winning Youth Theatre has been presenting captivating productions for over ten years, including last year’s hugely successful production of The Witches.

Join 101 cast members on this classic tailwagging adventure, adapted from Dodie Smith’s much-loved story by Bryony Lavery (Frozen) and directed by Dale Rooks (The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, 2011 and The Firework-Maker’s Daughter, 2010).

Box office 01243 781312 www.cft.org.uk

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Families Solent East | September/October 2014 | 5

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News & Views The South coast is alive with the sound of music!

The fantastic Urban Vocal Group is heading for Portsmouth. A grant from the National Foundation of Youth Music has enabled the successful Urban Vocal Group (UVG) to establish two new groups in Portsmouth and Chichester. UVG is a free to access music charity for 11 to 18 year olds who sing contemporary arrangements of current tunes and pop classics.

Founded in 2008 they provide free access to professional vocal tuition and performance opportunities regardless of experience. They have performed over 40 times across the South Coast and worked with hundreds of singers from all backgrounds on technique, harmony and vocal health. The group also offer composition, recording and development opportunities for those interested in a career in the music industry.

Check them out on the web, Soundcloud and YouTube and if you would like to join contact info@theuvg.co.uk or turn up on the night.

This is no ordinary choir ….this is the future of vocal groups for young people!

The group starts on Wednesday 10 September from 5.45 to 7.15pm at The Guildhall, Portsmouth or every Monday from 5.45pm at Bedhampton Social Hall.

Shanghai-style maths hubs aim to improve standards in England The government’s £11 million programme of ‘maths hubs’ will be rolled out to 32 schools in England this September, aiming to improve maths results by using a Chinese model of teaching.

The programme is to be developed by academics from Shanghai and England.

Central to this will be an exchange programme, where teachers from Shanghai will visit the ‘hub’ schools to run ‘masterclasses’ for local teachers.

Two maths teachers from each school will also work in China for at least a month to learn first-hand some of their teaching approaches, which will then be passed on to other local schools. www.ncetm.org.uk/resources/44071

11th - 14th September Heritage Open Days celebrates England’s fantastic architecture and culture by offering free access to places that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. Every year during four days in September, buildings of every age, style and function throw open their doors. Run by volunteers nationwide, it is a oncea-year chance to discover architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities that bring local history and culture to life. Visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk/directory to find out where is open in your area.

You can also call 0844 335 1884 for more information.

Childhood cancer awareness This September is childhood cancer awareness month.

You can wear a gold ribbon this Childhood Cancer Awareness Month to show you stand in solidarity with families who are coping with childhood cancer. Buy your ribbon at shop.clicsargent.org.uk, CLIC Sargent shops or branches of the supermarket Lidl, JD Wetherspoon pubs or fashion retailer Wallis.

You can also ‘go gold’ by texting ‘GOLD’ to 70030 to donate £3 to CLIC Sargent (Standard network charges apply). Or add a gold ribbon to your social media profiles online and email your MP to ask them to show support for children with cancer. You could even organise a goldthemed fundraising event, like a dress down day at work or a tea party. And you can donate your gold coins to their Big Bucket Collections at supermarkets across the UK this September.

To find out more about how you can get involved in Childhood Cancer Awareness month visit www.clicsargent.org.uk

Portsmouth BookFest Portsmouth has a strong literary heritage including Charles Dickens, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and HG Wells and annual Portsmouth BookFest continues that tradition, this year running from 24 October – 9 November 2014.

As in previous years, the programme will include a variety of events for adult audiences as well as a programme featuring children’s authors visiting city schools run by Portsmouth School Library Service.

For programme information please ring the Portsmouth Box Office on

023 92 688 037

Pharmaton Vitality capsules We all know what it’s like to feel exhausted especially during a long busy day, but that’s just part of modern day lifestyle, and coping with everything is an everyday battle.

Taking Pharmaton Vitality capsules can help reduce tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily for a maximum period of twelve weeks. Pharmaton Vitality capsules are a licensed medicine which are packed with vitamins, minerals and the unique Ginseng G115 that’s clinically proven to relieve fatigue and also aid mental and physical wellbeing. It is supported by over 30 clinical trials and studies.

6 September/October 2014 | Families Solent East

Would you like to see your local business in Families magazine?

Email sales@familiessolenteast.co.uk

Or call us on 02392 362 737 Speaking to 22,500 local parents and carers every issue.

Featured eatery

The Corner Café

Opened 18 months ago, The Corner Café is a reflection of the owner’s travels throughout Europe, combining the laid back, easy going and family friendly feel of a continental café bar with high standards and a quality menu, mixing the best of home and abroad.

What we liked on Facebook!

Group name: ‘Portsmouth and Southsea Family Friendly Eatery Guide’

What’s it all about? Ever wondered where

to go for amazing food and service with your family? This is a local closed group (anyone welcome to join upon request) with over 700 parent members sharing the best (and worst) places in Portsmouth and the surrounding areas to eat with your little ones.

Read reviews and recommendations, post questions and share experiences with other parents. Join in the fun!

With table service you’ll be greeted by friendly, professional staff on arrival so you’ll be able to relax with a coffee and a slice of cake or a glass of wine, imported beer and more substantial offering from their menu or specials board which is created daily by a team of chefs.

Serving breakfast from 8am Monday to Saturday and from 9am on Sunday they offer everything from light bites to main meals.

Whether it’s imported Italian coffee or selection of Tea Pigs tea, they pride themselves on using high quality ingredients, making each meal fresh to order.

The Corner Cafe, 1 Landport Terrace, Portsmouth PO1 2RG Tel: 023 9281 9722 Opening times Mon - Thu: 8am – 7pm Fri: 8am – 9pm Sat: 8am – 4pm Sun: 9am – 2pm

We would like to welcome you to our bar/bistro here in Southsea A truly continental cafe bar offering a wide selection of home made cakes, along with our extensive menu of light bites, main meals and daily special.

Open monday to saturday from 8am and Sunday from 9am, Serving our imported Italian coffee, Tea Pigs teas and a selection of wines & beers in a relaxed atmosphere.

So whether it’s a slice of cake and coffee with friends, a business meeting over lunch or light bite with the kids

we look forward to welcoming you soon.

02392 819722 info@thecornercafesouthsea.com

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Families Solent East | September/October 2014 | 7

How to create a healthy dialogue with your school

By Hannah Hunter

Research shows that the better your relationship with your child’s school, the more they will enjoy learning and do well. However it’s often impossible to know what really goes on at school – children are not very forthcoming when it comes to recounting their day.

If they do raise any issues, or if you sense something is amiss, it can be difficult to know how to broach the subject with school.

Tips for successful communication As both a parent and a primary teacher, I know how hard it can be to strike the right balance. If you’re meeting a teacher outside of parents’ evening or class surgeries, it’s because there is a problem. These meetings can easily become tense, with both ‘sides’ on the defensive.

Assume the best of your child’s teacher

They are trained professionals who understand the curriculum and child development. They ultimately want the same as you – a happy child who is learning.

Let teachers know if there are problems at home You don’t have to go into graphic detail, just tell them if something’s happened which may affect your child’s behaviour.

Don’t assume that your child always tells the truth!

After all, teachers don’t automatically believe what your child tells them about home.

Remain calm and neutral

“Little Johnny came home rather upset about xxx, I wondered what your take on it is…”, rather than “Why did you shout at Little Johnny like that?”

Mediation

If you have issues with a teacher’s conduct and feel upset or angry, it’s best that an additional member of staff is present.

Talk to the teacher first

Even negative feedback is appreciated. Going directly to the head is a bit like them phoning your boss whenever your child misbehaves!

Remember that teachers are human

They sometimes make mistakes, so try to forgive them for it.

Helping out in school Get an insight into how things are run and improve your relationship with the school by volunteering.

Parent Helper

Helping out in class can be fun and rewarding. Research shows that having a parent who volunteers improves a child’s experience of school. Organise a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check (Disclosures in Scotland) - you can then volunteer regularly or as a one-off.

School Trips

If you’ve had the DBS check, this one is great for integrating yourself. On what is invariably a stressful day, a responsible parent helping out can be a lifesaver!

8 September/October 2014 | Families Solent East

Use your Expertise

Maybe there’s a school club that would fit your skill set or interests. If not, you could talk to the class or even do an assembly. One volcanologist parent at my son’s school did a legendary presentation including exploding volcanoes.

Join the PTA

Fostering closer home-school links, the PTA usually organise the school’s fundraising projects, from fetes to family quiz nights. Run by committee, they may include ‘class reps’ who pass on information from other parents in the class.

School Governors

Comprising parent governors and other community members, this group of elected volunteers helps to make management decisions, such as running buildings and budgets, supporting staff and setting discipline standards. It can be timeconsuming, particularly if the school’s results are getting worse or it’s going through a big change like appointing a new head teacher, or joining with another school.

Parent Council member

Some schools have a Parent council, where parents meet to share ideas that are fed back to the school governors. This is great if you’re too busy to commit to PTA or Governors, but want to have an input.

Education

Could tutoring help your child?

Paying for extra tuition has become very popular over the last few years.

According to a poll last year by the Sutton Trust, nearly one in four 11-16 year olds at state schools in England and Wales said that their parents had paid for them to have extra help with their lessons.

So should you hire a tutor? If you don’t, will they be at a disadvantage when it comes to tests like the 11+ or Common Entrance exam, if everyone else seems to be sending their children for extra lessons?

Why get a tutor?

With stress on getting good grades now starting at KS1 and 2 with SATs children are expected to achieve from a very young age. Schools cannot provide the one-to-one support, which can provide valuable help in some instances.

If a child is struggling with a subject area, or missing knowledge that is holding them back (e.g. after time off school), then a tutor is a great idea. If your child has additional needs, like dyslexia or ADHD, a tutor can provide valuable targeted support (if they have a statement, your child may be entitled to one-to-one support in school).

Perhaps your child is having trouble getting the C-grade in Maths/English GCSE that they need for further education. Maybe they want to study

a subject not offered at their school.

Interview preparation for University is also a popular reason to hire a tutor, particularly for Oxbridge interviews.

When is it best to get help?

It’s best to start sooner rather than later.

For example, if you’re hiring someone to help after the GCSE mocks in February there’s a limited amount they can achieve - if you think tuition will benefit your child, start from September of Year 11 onwards.

How to find a good tutor If you can get someone who is personally recommended, then obviously that is the best option. Make sure you check their references and DBS checks, and interview them before you hire them. It sounds obvious, but they need to get along with your child, as well as looking good on paper. Study centres and tuition agencies will ensure that their staff are safety checked and appropriately qualified, with some agencies only employing graduates in key subject areas.

Kip McGrath Kip McGrath Portsmouth has been providing a professional tuition service in Portsmouth since 2005 and in that time has helped hundreds of children and families to achieve their academic goals.

A trusted recommendation is always the best way to make sure that the service a tutor provides is what you are looking for and Kip McGrath find that many of their referrals come from word of mouth.

All tutors are fully qualified and police checked and teach to support the National Curriculum and local Common Entrance Exams. They provide a free assessment that enables them to identify any strengths and weaknesses and provide detailed feedback after every lesson.

Contact details

02392 755923 www.portsmouthtutors.co.uk B3 Cumberland Business Centre, How much will it cost?

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Any further amendments will revision courses and one-to-one tuition in all academic subjects, starting from Help for Free Please contact us byschool returnentry either toCommon amend orEntrance approveright your and Your child’s school mayadvertisement. already offer up to GCSE, A-level and university. The revision classes – make sure you’re company is recommended by 'The Good School's Guide'. aware of what’s available. There are excellent online resources to support at Contact details home learning – for example the BBC 020 8580 3911 or bitesize website has games and revision 0845 644 5452 subjects up to GCSE level. Perhaps you know someone who is a teacher, or has www.fleet-tutors.co.uk language or music skills, who may be clientsupport@fleet-tutors.co.uk able to informally help your child – you could do a childcare swap or similar in lieu of payment.

Here are some useful resources when doing your research... www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk/tutors www.suttontrust.com www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize

Families Solent East | September/October 2014 | 9

Open Days St John’s College, Grove Road South, Southsea, PO5 3QW Tel: 0845 2698804

Meoncross School Burnt House Lane Stubbington PO14 2EF Tel: 01329 662182

St Johns Open Events 4th October 9.30am – 12.30pm 13th November 9.30am – 11.30am

Meoncross Open Mornings 10am – 12pm 18th September 4th October 13th November

St John’s College is a Christian day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2 – 18. Their open day in October provides the perfect opportunity to experience the breadth of academic provision and co-curricular activity they offer across their Junior and Senior Schools. Parents with toddlers are invited to visit their new-look Nursery too, which has moved from Albany Road on to the school site so it will physically be part of the Pre Prep department. The move is all part of their aim to achieve better continuity between year groups - encouraging children to progress through the whole school.

Highfield and Brookham Schools, Liphook, Hampshire, GU30 7LQ Tel: 01428 728000 Highfield Open Day 20th September 9:30 - 12 noon.

Brookham Open Day 22nd September 9:30am - 11:30am Highfield & Brookham Schools are charming country Prep and Pre Prep boarding and day schools set in sumptuous 175 acre grounds on the Hampshire/Surrey/Sussex borders. The facilities are enviable, including extensive sports pitches, an indoor swimming pool, new science labs, a music school and an art school. Highfield enjoys outstanding academic success and has been preparing pupils for the top education establishments in England for more than a century. They have a flawless track record for securing every child’s place at their first choice senior school, and an excellent Scholarship success rate.

Meoncross School is an independent co-educational day school and nursery for boys and girls aged 2 1/2 – 16 years old. An outstanding school that stands for every child, this year Meoncross School received the highest praise from Inspectors, who confirmed the excellent education and care pupils receive, supported by outstanding teaching and a well-organised curriculum that contributes equally to personal and academic achievement.

The confidence and self-esteem of pupils is built on an ethos of high expectations, encouragement and praise and gives them strong motivation to succeed, with many pupils working above the expected standards.

Their Nursery and Early Years provision is outstanding whilst Beach School enriches the outdoor activities programme. Pupils love the way their teachers challenge them and the harmonious family atmosphere of the school.

To discuss the benefits of a Meoncross education for your child book your place at one of their forthcoming open mornings listed above.

Portsmouth High School

Open Day

Saturday 4 October 9.30 to 12.30 An independent school for girls from Nursery to Sixth Form delivering outstanding results...

Portsmouth High School, 25 Kent Rd, Southsea, PO5 3EQ Tel: 02392 826714 Portsmouth High School Open day 4th October 9.30 to 12.30 Portsmouth High School is an independent school for girls located in the heart of Southsea in Hampshire, just a five minute walk from the seafront. The school welcomes pupils from nursery through to sixth form from a wide catchment area covering Hampshire, West Sussex and the Isle of Wight. The school is committed to academic excellence and encouraging girls to be creative, independent and ambitious in a caring and friendly environment that knows and cares for each individual.

During their open day the Nursery, Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form will be open to visitors with a whole host of activities to get involved in.

10 September/October 2014 | Families Solent East

www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk 023 9282 6714 admissions@por.gdst.net Part of the Girls’ Day School Trust network of schools

Open Days

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

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BO N RE O M AD H

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Highfield Open Day Saturday 20th September 9.30am – 12 noon

Brookham Open Day

Monday 22nd September Stay & 9.30am – 11.30am Play!

“Outstanding Early Years Provision” ISI Report 2011

www.highfieldschool.org.uk | Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7LQ

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Families Solent East | September/October 2014 | 11

Clubs and Classes Whether or not you think you might be raising the next Picasso or David Beckham, there’s no doubting the pluses for after school clubs.

From ballet to basketball and art to archery, there’s an after school activity out there for every child. And the best thing about them is they’re brilliant for all sorts of reasons – not just learning a new skill.

For a start, after school clubs give kids the chance to let off steam outside of the classroom.

As clinical psychologist Dr Julie Fraser, puts it: “It’s an opportunity for kids to explore different talents.

Not everyone is brilliant at academic subjects and it’s a chance for your kids to shine outside of the classroom.”

She adds: “Learning a new skill can also affect what happens in school – kids feel more confident and able to try new tasks.”

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But kids clubs are not only great for improving academic levels but for developing important life skills too.

“It’s brilliant for developing social skills, dealing with new environments, talking to different adults and mixing with different children,” says Dr Fraser. “But best of all, after school clubs are confidence building.”

Team sports like football, rugby, and netball are not only brilliant for keeping

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waterbabies.co.uk

12 September/October 2014 | Families Solent East

kids active but also helping them learn team work where they can begin to appreciate what’s good for the whole team, rather than just thinking of themselves. Competitive sports are also great for learning difficult life lessons like being a gracious winner - and loser. But for team building clubs with a less competitive edge, you could consider Woodcraft Folk, Brownies and Scouts.

Learning a musical instrument is great for discovering the art of practice, patience and persistence. Drama clubs are great for shy kids who learn to find their voice singing and acting alongside others, while ballet and dance is great for kids to learn discipline and self-expression.

There’s so many to choose from, it’s tempting to try them all but it’s also important not to overburden kids with too many activities. Frantically driving from one after school club to the next seems to be missing the point. New skills, team work and confidence building aside, the most important thing to think about when deciding which club to choose is surely the fun factor.

After that, the trick is to stay involved.

“It’s important to talk with the teacher, find out how they work and show an interest in the class, “ says Dr Fraser.

“That way you can be sure your child really is enjoying the club, and you will begin to watch them flourish.”

Visit our ory online direct re o m n e for ev nd a s b local clu s e class Here’s our pick from some of the great clubs & classes in the area...

Goals Portsmouth 02380180200 Portsmouth@goalsfootball.co.uk Start your Football Career with Goals and the Soccer Scholar Academy. Every Saturday and school holiday at Goals Portsmouth. With FA/Uefa coaches, a travel team programme, and professional exit routes available. Friday Night Junior leagues also available.

Saturdays: 10am -12pm (Ages 5-11) and 10.30 - 11.15am (Tots aged 2-5)

Rusalka Swim School 02392 594449 www.rusalkaswim.com Rusalka Swim School is an independent, private swimming school offering the finest levels of swimming tuition to babies and children throughout southern Hampshire. They often teach nervous adults too!

Operating from their own two superb, modern, warm, indoor swimming pool complexes in Horndean, they are the only swimming school

in mainland Hampshire to be awarded ASA 'Aquamark' Centre of Excellence status in 2010. The school's owner, Yulia Parker, was also voted the UK's Swimming Teacher of the Year 2007 / 2008 and in 2011 they were voted one of the top three swim schools in the UK ! Place your trust in Rusalka - Hampshire's most accredited Swim School.

Water Babies 0239 223 1007 www.waterbabies.co.uk Designed to make the most of babies’ natural affinity with water, the multi-award winning Water Babies programme teaches confidence and safety, using specialist techniques that see many swimming short distances from as young as 30 months.

Water Babies believe that by introducing babies to water as early as possible, they’ll be less likely to experience fear if they do fall in.

Swimming with your baby is a great way to play and is fantastic for strengthening the bond between the two of you. It will also introduce them to a lifelong love of staying healthy and fit, whilst having a great time too.

Stage Coach Theatre Arts Fareham 023 8046 5006 Havant 0845 521 3730 Dance and singing are art forms that provide so much enjoyment. The discipline learned and confidence gained from working with like-minded children striving together to produce their best builds confidence and self-esteem. The physical exertion gives a level of fitness that adds poise and helps them to move better, add to that learning to sing and express themselves through drama gives an education that draws the quiet student out of themselves and teaches the loud child discipline and control.

Learning from inspirational, security checked teachers who are dancers, choreographers, singers or actors themselves inspires children to strive to reach their individual limit, they will enjoy themselves and gain confidence to deal with all that life brings. Try Stage Coach for a couple of weeks with no obligation, there is no audition to get in, just enthusiasm needed.

Perform Drama Class Titchfield and Winchester 0845 400 4000 Perform offer drama, dance and singing workshops for 4-12 year olds that focus on helping develop children’s confidence, co-ordination, communication and concentration skills. Perform will give your child amazing social skills and will be the best fun of their week.

This September to December, Perform children will be travelling through space on an inter-planetary adventure with The Space READ ER OF Queen and FER £40 D IS COU off of The Little a bloc NT k of 1 Green Alien. sessions 0 . Ex All Octob pires 31st er. Qu ot interested FARH 31101 e 4. children are entitled to a Free Trial Session.

For more information go to www.perform.org.uk or to book a FREE TRIAL SESSION call the Perform team on 0845 400 4000 or email enquiries@perform.org.uk

Art Club at Aspex Gallery, Gunwharf Quays, 023 9277 8080 Children will join local artist Emma Noble in fun after school art workshops for younger artists! Each term Emma will lead children through a new project, exploring a range of techniques and materials, allowing them to try new things outside of school activities and get messy in the gallery. Running from 10 Sept - 22 Oct & 5 Nov-17 Dec from 4 - 5.30pm.

Families Solent East | September/October 2014 | 13

Back to School Has your child had their eyes tested before term starts?

Children are starting school with undetected eye problems which can slow down their progress.

All children are entitled to free NHS eye tests, and opticians can check children of any age.

If you have questions about looking after your child’s eyes, there is a new information service to help too. ABDO, the Association of British Dispensing Opticians is launching eyecareFAQ. The service has launched with answers to all sorts of questions about eye care for children, including how to choose well-fitting frames for youngsters, and contact lenses for children.

Did you know...

• All children under the age of eighteen and in full time education qualify for a free NHS eye test • Your child doesn’t have to be able to read to get their eyes checked – the optician can estimate long-sightedness and short-sightedness by looking at your child’s eyes with a retinoscope, plus there are picture cards to help check what younger children can see • The optician can assess your child’s eye health and some aspects of general health by looking inside their eyes ABDO want to answer the questions that you need to know about. You can use the eyecareFAQ social media channels to send in your own questions. Remember, online advice can’t replace a face-to-face consultation with a professional, so do visit your local optician for advice tailored specifically to you.

Find eyecareFAQ: twitter.com/eyecarefaq www.facebook.com/eyecarefaq

Back to school:

Time to jump back in and swim for shore!

By Helena Clarke In the week after I broke up from work for the summer and before my children had even finished school, I wandered into WH Smiths and was immediately hit by the conspicuous sight of their ‘Back To School’ stationery range taking pride of place at the front of the store.

Now I recognise that it is the role of shops to sell us things before we even realise we need them, but preparing kids to go back to school before they’ve even tasted the freedom of their six week summer holiday seems particularly harsh.

Still, I found myself hypnotised by the sight of all that beautiful stationery and its whispered promises of a more organised future. These retailers know that the children themselves are not the ones they need to seduce here, it’s us as parents who fall under the spell of the matching folders, notebooks and pens. …sigh… …where was I? Ah yes, feeling outraged that my summer holiday had been stolen away by commerce the shame of it!

But now, as you read this, the long heady days of summer really are drawing to a close and we are all forced to crank the gears back into motion and ready ourselves for the onslaught. And it is an onslaught; this mad frenetic freefall through autumn and into Christmas with barely a pause for breath.

Our children are moving on to new classes, new schools, new hobbies, new challenges and we, as parents, need to keep up with these changes.

Indeed, by rights, we should be one step ahead, smoothing their path and easing the transition.

But surely we are only human too?!

We, like our children, are like rabbits blinking in the headlights as the thunderous presence of the Autumn term bears down on us.

We too, end each day in these first few weeks of term sapped of our last ounce of energy, barely able to draw breath and wondering what on earth happened to all that renewed

14 September/October 2014 | Families Solent East

vigour we managed to claw back over the summer.

Once again we are faced with the weekend task of ensuring that everyone has uniform for the week ahead (well, for Monday at least and then we can scrabble through the laundry basket from there on in). Once again we must discipline our children to do their reading (when we can find the book in the pile of Moshi drawings on the table), practise their spellings (assuming we haven’t accidently recycled the latest spelling list) and make an early start on those special projects (rather than have the whole family up until midnight the night before it is due in, frantically helping to make a model Spitfire).

Once again we find ourselves rushing from school pick-up to swimming lessons, or recorder lessons, or football practice, or Beavers, or Brownies…… it’s no wonder every parent you meet with a school-aged child has a slightly wild-eyed look and a tendency to glance frequently at the time as if living in fear of missing a crucial deadline!

And so the madness begins. We can try to out-run it and cling on to the last vestiges of summer-time, but we know we will eventually have to take a deep breath and jump in. I know that I, for one, am destined to zigzag haphazardly through the autumn term, dragging my children along in my wake as we all doggy paddle determinedly towards the bright lights of Christmas.

But maybe if I just buy myself a nice new Back to School notebook and pen, I might manage to be slightly more organised this time round.

Because, as every good retailer knows, that’s all an organised parent ever needs really isn’t it? Some beautiful colour-coordinated stationery.

Our columnist Helena Clarke is a local Psychology teacher from Southsea and mother of two girls aged 6 and 8. To read more from Helena, visit:

www.familiessolenteast.co.uk or take a look at her blog

www.motherinferiorblog.com

Getting organised With all the things we have to juggle as parents, it’s no surprise if every now and then we feel like we are losing the plot! Here are some ideas to help keep on top of things and make life run that little bit smoother.

Creating a timetable

Create a simple weekly or fortnightly time table showing your family commitments i.e after school clubs, homework or spelling days, food shop days, housework etc. Hang it somewhere you can see it and amend when necessary - just creating a timetable in itself and seeing an overview of your week can go a long way to helping you feel more organised with your time.

Give your children a checklist of age appropriate chores – there is advice online about what children should be able to help out with at what ages, but even a two or three your old could be helping put toys away, stacking books, putting their clothes in the hamper or dusting the skirting’s.

If you find yourself feeling guilty about having them do housework, remember that you are teaching them important life skills and the earlier the better.

Scheduling

Schedule in a convenient time each week or fortnight to do the things that catch you out or have a tendency to build up and become overwhelming. For example, rather than letting your car get to the red before you fill it up each time, fill the tank and then pick a time every week that you refill – This way you won’t get caught out paying more than usual at that middle of nowhere station and it will also help you keep track of exactly how much you are spending on fuel each week.

Other good things to schedule in could be fortnightly trips to the bottle bank or charity shop for getting rid of outgrown clothes or toys. Set a regular time to do ironing so that it doesn’t build up into a scary looking mountain. Keeping on top of the smaller things in life will help you feel more in control generally.

Playtime

Schedule in some time each day or week depending on your commitments to spend time playing with your children – whether it is outdoor games, a board game, drawing or a simple game of catch – giving them your undivided attention (phone/ computer/TV turned off!) for a set and regular period of time will enable them to get on and play with each other or by themselves a lot better at the times when you can’t.

Bulk cooking

There’s nothing worse than coming home from a busy day to find you need to rush out to the shop to buy dinner! Once a week try to bulk cook a big Bolognese,

vegetable stew (or whatever your family favourite is!) so that you have enough to pop a second lot in the freezer for emergency dinners. Search ‘One-Pot recipes’ online to find lots of dishes that are ideal for doubling up in a big pot.

Frozen fruit & vegetables

These can save the day when you reach the vegetable draw and find it empty or even worse, growing new life forms! You can pretty much get frozen anything these days, but things like frozen diced onion are especially great for chucking into stews or stir fries and saves time (and tears!) on peeling and chopping. Frozen fruit is perfect for quickly defrosting and mixing with yogurt, custard or ice cream for pudding, or blitz in a blender straight from frozen with that over-ripe banana and some milk to make a quick and healthy smoothie.

Shopping & mealtimes

Getting into the habit of packing lunch boxes the night before at the same time you are doing dinner can make mornings a much less stressful experience and saves time on washing up and preparation.

Creating a weekly menu plan can help make sure you don’t run out of food or walk out of the supermarket with bags of shopping but nothing to cook! Get everyone involved in the planning with a list of favourite meals.

Depending on how big your family, a week of shopping in one go can be an exhausting and stressful experience – could you schedule in two smaller shops a week and take on 3/4 days at a time? This could also help avoid wastage from food going off.

The ‘To Do’ book

With such hectic schedules sometimes it feels like we constantly have a hundred and one things going round in our minds, especially when we are trying to sleep!

Keeping a small note book in your bag during the day and then next your bed at night can help get these out of your head and onto paper when you can see them.

Knowing that you no longer have to try to remember it all can make life a lot less stressful and sleep come easier.

Clothes

Labelling children’s clothes can seem like a hassle but can save you a lot of time and money in the long run. Pen washes off or fades over time. Labels4kids do an amazing range of personalised labels for

every type of scenario – stick on, iron on, sew on, click on, dishwasher/ microwaveproof. www.labels4kids.com/fam If you have bought new shoes, trousers or socks for your children, get them to wear them around the house for a few days before heading off to school in them so you can avoid any morning tears or arguments when you are pushed for time.

School

Find 10 minutes each day after school to have your child go through their school bag with you so you can see if anything needs your attention and that it is also ready for the next day – this is a good habit for your child to get into.

If something needs your attention, do it straight away if possible and send it back to school the next day – if you don’t you may well forget, plus seeing it every day on the side will only make you feel anxious!

Clutter

Take note of where the clutter accumulates in your house and then try to work out why. Could you solve the problem with a basket at the bottom of the stairs, height appropriate hooks for your children in the hall, a shoe rack, a storage box or an accessible cupboard? If you are planning a big declutter, rather than looking at the house as one huge messy job, take on just one draw or cupboard each day.

Housework

Housework can seem like a huge and thankless task when you have an army of people set on making things dirty again!

Rather than taking the whole house on at a time, break cleaning up into daily tasks i.e. dusting on Monday, vacuuming on Tuesday, bathroom/toilet on Wednesday, kitchen on Thursday etc. You will find that each job takes only a small amount of time each day and because you are doing it regularly, the house doesn’t become overwhelmingly dirty all in one go.

The emergency bag

Getting caught out without something is frustrating, especially as it can end up costing you money or ruining your day.

Keep a small bag of essentials which you can easily transfer between handbags or keep in the boot of your car. Some things you might find useful to have are a small bottle of water, a £10 note, a few plasters, nail scissors, a sachet of Calpol, a pair of socks, a few tissues or wet wipes, spare phone charger, a snack bar, a pen and piece of paper.

Families Solent East | September/October 2014 | 15

Autumn Magic Photography tips Moira Vence-Gunstane is a local mum and photographer who is constantly capturing visual memories of her own family as well as others. As the current cover photographer for Families Solent East, here she shares tips to help us capture relaxed and natural images of our own family moments this autumn.

Calm Plan a scavenger hunt as part of an autumn walk. Look for opportunities during scavenging or find a welllit spot with plenty of colour in the background and invite everyone to lay out/examine their finds at the end.

When you’re ready to snap ask them to show you their favourite find, they’ll look up at you automatically without that ‘cheesy smile’. Switch to portrait mode or use a wide aperture (try my favourite f2.8) to blur the background.

Colour and light

Action!

Throwing or kicking autumn leaves is a classic. Little ones may prefer to sit and have an older sibling or adult sprinkle leaves from above them. Avoid blurring of limbs and falling leaves by switching to sports or action mode on a compact camera or a fast shutter speed of 1/500th if you're using an SLR or DSLR.

t If you spo her p ra g a photo n on the belly dow ng r or crawli forest floo h g u ro ees th on her kn bly a b ro p – it’ll the leaves f o e n o on be Moira n family m tu u a her phy photogra n sessio s!

For more great location ideas visit www.pinterest.com/moiralizzie.

For more information about Moira Lizzie Photography www.moiralizzie.co.uk www.facebook.com/moiralizzie

We would love to see your best family shots - we will even print a selection of them in the next issue! Send them in to our editor at:

editor@familiessolenteast.co.uk

Happy snapping!!

16 September/October 2014 | Families Solent East

Overcast days provide soft lighting which make autumn colours really pop!

Make sure your subjects are facing into the light to ensure even lighting on their faces and watch out for shadows on brighter days as sun filters through the branches. To highlight autumnal colours, you can also try backlighting your subject by positioning the sun behind them.

Feeling inspired?

If you are thinking of heading out to try some of these tips, here’s some recommended local autumn locations you may want to try out:

• The Forest of Bere (Hundred Acre Wood) Fareham, PO17 6JD • Queen Elizabeth Forest Waterlooville, PO8 0QE • Staunton Farm Havant, PO9 5HB (find the pumpkins in the walled garden)

XXXXXXX To see your event listed on the se pages call 02392 362 7 37

What’s On Your guide to all the best family events this September and October Although we aim to be as accurate as possible, the events listed in our What’s On section are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please contact venues in advance to check full details.

Spot the dot for free events

Until 20 September Pitcairn

Minerva Theatre, Chichester, Oaklands Park, PO19 6AP

A new play by Richard Bean - After overthrowing Captain Bligh, Fletcher Christian drops anchor at the remote Pacific island of Pitcairn, to establish a society of equals with his fellow sailors and their Tahitian followers. But a swift descent from dreams of Eden to a brutal reality follows.

Contains strong language and scenes of a sexual nature. Age guideline 16+.

Tickets: £24, £33, 16 – 25s £8.50

Until 21 September Guys and Dolls

Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, PO19 6AP

A musical fable of Broadway based on a story and characters of Damon Runyon. A hugely popular musical depicting the colourful world of 1950s New York gamblers, which includes the hit numbers Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat and Luck Be A Lady. American director Gordon Greenberg makes his debut at Chichester, along with internationally renowned dancer and choreographer Carlos Acosta.

The cast features Clare Foster, Jamie Parker, Peter Polycarpou and Sophie Thompson.

Tickets: £15 - £41, 16 – 25s £8.50

4 September

The Wind Rises (PG)

No 6 Cinema, Boathouse 6, Portsmouth Dockyard, PO1 3LJ

Director Miyazaki delivers his masterpiece and defies the

conventional limitations of animation in depicting the life of Jiro Horikoshi, the engineer who designed the Mitsubishi A6M Zero. Young Horikoshi is fascinated by flight, and dedicates his life to building a flying machine. Children under age 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Tel 074 3502 9408

6 September

Fareham Farmers’ Market

West Street, Fareham.

from 9am to 2pm. Up to 40 local producers will be selling the best of their produce directly to customers – from freshly picked organic fruit and vegetables to free range eggs, from fish from local waters to rare breed meats, from home-baked bread and cakes to the honey made from local bees.

AUTUMN AT ASPEX We’ve got loads going on for all the family.

artists start at

Take advantage of our

longer opening hours After School Dates: on the weekend.

Our After School clubs on Wednesdays in term time are back again.

10 Sept - 22 Oct & 5 Nov-17 Dec Sessions run from 4 - 5.30.

There is also Holiday Art Club for 8-13s in Half Term.

29-31 October, 11-3 each day.

0-5s can get involved with Mini Makers every Wednesday morning 11am. See our website for more information!

Holiday Art Club Dates: Booking Info:

Call 023 9277 8080 or email vicky@aspex.org.uk info, prices and to book.

Find us in Portsmouth’s Gunwharf Quays - we’ve got a great child friendly Cafe too!

www.aspex.org.uk

cHicHeSTer FeSTiVAl youTH THeATre presents

the hundred and one dalm atians by dodie SmiTH in a new adaptation by

BryoNy lAVery

A TAil- wAGGiNG cHriSTmAS TreAT!

6 - 7 September

Harvest and Brewing Weekend

Weald and Downland Open Air Museum, Chichester, PO18 0EU

11.00am - 4.00pm. Harvesting the fruits of the summer’s labours: depending on the weather and the harvest, we will be gathering and preserving field crops, hedgerow fruit or garden produce; brewing ale from barley and beer from hops and taking full advantage of nature’s bounty.

cHildreN HAlF price T&Cs apply Age guideline 7+

world premiere FeSTiVAl THeATre 20 December - 3 January cft.org.uk 01243 781312

Families Solent East | September/October 2014 | 17

What’s On

Autumn Countryside Show Sat 11 & Sun 12 Oct

Experience the sights, sounds and smells of the countryside at harvest time

See teams of heavy horses ploughing the fields, vintage tractors at work and steam-powered threshing demonstrations. Browse and buy gifts with a countryside theme and enjoy woodland and rural craft demonstrations.

The 5th Horticultural Show will take place again at this event with classes to suit all.

Weald & Downland Open Air Museum Opening times and admission charges can be found at www.wealddown.co.uk or Tel: 01243 811348 Dogs on leads welcome

13 September

19 September

Gunners Way, Gosport PO12 4DS

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT

Fort Brockhurst open day

Explore this vast Victorian fort with activities for children - handling artefacts, colouring, costumed Victorian schoolroom lessons, feed the ducks. Free - Bring a picnic!

13 - 14 September Classic Car Show

Newport Quay & Eastern Gardens Ryde

7 September

10 September

Canoe Lake, St Helens Parade, Southsea, PO4 9RG

The Guildhall, PO1 2AB

Model Boat Displays with Pyrotechnics On the water displays with pyrotechnics and Lifeboat display by members of lifeboat model club

Salvation Army Open Day

The Crossways, Gosport, PO12 4RH

12noon - 4pm. Free event. This open day includes a bouncy castle, face painting, outdoor toys, BBQ.

Multicultural Festival

Castle Field, Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, PO5 3BP Free event for the entire family! A festival of live music and shows; a variety of stalls including food, craft, clothing and information. Adult and children’s workshops. 07443 457472

Theatre Open Day

Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, PO19 6AP

11am – 4pm All are invited to a fun-packed day – the chance to explore the newly restored Festival Theatre, join workshops or discover more about theatre with talks or tours. No need to book in advance, just check cft.org.uk/ openday to find out more.

Launch of the Urban Vocal Group in Portsmouth 5.45 to 7.15pm. Free singing tuition and music making opportunity for young people aged 11 to 18 in Portsmouth.

No experience needed – all abilities welcomed. Contact info@theuvg.co.uk or just turn up on the night. www.theuvg.co.uk

11 September

16 – 25s Live Nights!

Guys and Dolls

Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, PO19 6AP

6.25pm. For those aged 16 – 25, Live Nights! accompany the £8.50 tickets, offering much more than just seeing the play. Participants arrive early to meet the Guys and Dolls company, tour the set or visit backstage. Free to 16 – 25s when booking £8.50 tickets

12 September

Celebrate Roald Dahl Day!

SEARCH @ Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport.

PO12 1BT

Pop in to SEARCH after school on the eve of Roald Dahl’s birthday for fun activities linked to his famous stories. FREE, just come along. 4pm to 6pm (last entry 5.30pm)

18 September/October 2014 | Families Solent East

4 - 5pm. An utterly magical stage adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s enthralling children’s tale . Family Show for 5 – 11 year olds and everyone who loves stories. Tickets £5, Family of 4 £18. Please book.

Telephone 023 9252 3463.

Talk like a Pirate” event

A unique collection of handpicked classic cars from all over the UK showcased across two days at Newport Quay & Ryde Esplanade’s North Walk (near the canoe lake). Both shows are completely free to attend with all proceeds going directly to Island charities.

Action Stations, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Portsmouth

13 - 28 September

20 September

Island wide

Crookhorn College, PO7 5UD

IOW Cycling Festival

Autumn Countryside Show at Weald and Downland

I Believe in Unicorns

The Isle of Wight Cycling Festival provides the perfect opportunity to get off the beaten track and enjoy some of the Island’s most beautiful, unspoilt countryside. Rides vary from pleasant meanders through pretty villages to Cycle the Wight, a 70-mile road route around the Island’s spectacular coastline. www.sunseaandcycling.com

14 September The Ruby Ride

Lakeside, North Harbour, Portsmouth, PO6 3EN

The Rowans Hospice’s sponsored bike ride in and around the Portsmouth and Hampshire area. With the choice of three routes; with refreshment and picnic opportunity stops along the way. All participants will receive a t-shirt, refreshments en route and a medal on completion, For more information please call 023 9223 7142.

18 September

16 – 25s Live nights!

Pitcairn

Minerva Theatre, Chichester, Oaklands Park, PO19 6AP

6.25pm. For those aged 16 – 25, Live Nights! accompany the £8.50 tickets, offering much more than just seeing the play. Participants arrive early to meet the Pitcairn company, tour the set or visit backstage.

Free to 16 – 25s when booking £8.50 tickets

10am – 5:30pm “Talk like a Pirate” National event day at Action Stations - Free with a valid attraction or site ticket or Loyalty Card and children must be accompanied by an adult.

023 9298 6410

Stagecoach Discovery Day

For 4 - 7 year olds, this free event will give parents an insight into what Stagecoach offers children and allows parents to meet the teachers and Principal to ask questions and watch a session in operation. The Discovery Day must be booked in advance at havant@stagecoach.co.uk or on 0845 521 3730.

“The Kiss that Missed” Story Time Special

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT 11am to 12 noon. Make your own sword and shield to protect yourself from monsters and dragons and listen to a story inspired by Mythical Maze, the Summer Reading Challenge 2014 Suitable for under 10s accompanied by an adult. FREE No need to book

21 September

Sunday Gun firings.

Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill Road, Portsmouth, PO17 6AN

1pm - 3pm Experience artillery in action at our special gun firing events. Join uniformed gun crews from Portsdown Artillery Volunteers. Gun firing lasts approximately 20 minutes.

Tel 01329 848533

Southsea Farmers Market Palmerston Road

Stroll around the stalls, chat to the producers, sample delicious local fresh food.

What’s On 23 – 27 September

The Sound of Music Ferneham Hall, Osborn Road, Fareham,PO16 7DB Fareham Musical Society perform their production at Ferneham Hall. 01329 231942

26 September – 25 October Taken At Midnight

Minerva Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester, PO19 6AP A new play by Mark Hayhurst, Director Jonathan Church. In 1931 Hans Litten was one of the most celebrated lawyers in Berlin, defending opponents of the Nazi movement. But his razor-sharp demolition of star witness Herr Hitler has shocking consequences.

Penelope Wilton plays Litten’s mother. Tickets: £24, £33. 16 – 25s £8.50

27 September

Nearly New sale

Titchfield Community Centre, Mill St, Titchfield, PO14 4AB

10.00 - 11:30am. Kit out the kids for a fraction of the cost 01329 842933

27 - 28 September Wallace and Gromit Midhants Railway (The Watercress Line) Alresford, SO24 9JG

Come and join Wallace & Gromit for a Grand Day Out at the Watercress Line!

Wallace & Gromit are celebrating 25 years as the nation’s favourite inventors, so come and meet them at various intervals on each day at Alresford station! Have you seen the size of our spanners?

Find out more about the weird and wonderful gadgets and gismos we use around the railway! Ride the steam trains all day and take a guided family tour around the yard at Ropley station, where you can get up close to our locos!

Find out more and book your tickets in advance at www. watercressline.co.uk or pay on the day.

27 - 28 September

Eastney Beam Engine House Open Days Portsmouth PO4 9JF

1pm to 5pm. Open day for this Victorian building containing a pair of classic Boulton Watt beam engines and pumps restored to their original 1887 condition. Tel 023 9282 7261

28 September

Havant Scalextric Swapmeet Havant Leisure Centre, Civic Centre Road, Havant PO9 2AY

10:30am. Scalextric returns to Havant, it’s 1957 birthplace and original place of manufacture until 1969. A chance to buy, sell, swap, chat about or just look round the 40+ tables from dealers, collectors, clubs and organisations. Display of Havant produced items and presentation on the ‘Havant years’ 01793 230328.

27TH - 28TH SEPTEMBER Come and meet Wallace & Gromit at various intervals each day!

Ride the steam trains and find out more about the railway's cracking gadgets and gismos!

JDRF walk to cure diabetes Hayling Island

Walk starts at 11am from the Hayling Island Funfair, step out for a beautiful walk along the Hayling Island seafront to raise funds to help find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. With a completely new venue and walk route with sea views. Also face painting, Live music, cake stalls and a tombola - as well as other entertainment. To take part please register online at www.jdrf.org.uk/walks or email south@jdrf.org.uk, call 0238061622 or text JDRF Walk and your email address to 61221

©Aardman Animations Ltd 2014

www.watercressline.co.uk

2 October - 2 November Spooky Spectacular

Staunton Country Park, Middle Park Way, Havant, PO9 5HB

Spooky fun with creepy crafts, frightening face painting, haunting Halloween trail and spooky storytelling. Small charge for crafts and activities.

023 9245 3405

4 – 5 October

Grow! Cook! Eat!

West Dean Gardens, Chichester, PO18 0QZ

10am – 5pm. Experience the best of the British harvest in the award-winning gardens at West Dean with cooking and gardening theatres, children’s activities, stalls and live music.

5 October

Sea Cadets District Parade Royal Marines Museum, Eastney Esplanade, Southsea, PO4 9PX

2 – 4 pm. Over 200 cadets form 8 Royal Marines Cadets and Sea Cadet Units from all over the South Coast, will come together for a District Parade. Bringing with them a band, guard and a number of platoons. 023 9281 9385

IT’S TIME TO BOARD THE WIZARD EXPRESS! 31st OCT - 2nd NOV

www.watercressline.co.uk Families Solent East | September/October 2014 | 19

What’s On 6 October – 8 November Gypsy

Chichester Festival Theatre, Chichester, PO19 6AP

A musical fable directed

by Jonathan Kent.. Imelda Staunton returns to Chichester to play Mama Rose, one of the greatest female roles in musical theatre, alongside Lara Pulver and Kevin Whately, in this compelling story of an ambitious stage-struck mother and her two daughters. Tickets: £15 - £41, 16 – 25s £8.50

The Spring on Tour I Believe in Unicorns

7 October, 6.30pm Waterlooville Library

8 October, 4.30pm Leigh Park Library

October, 4.30pm Hayling Island Library

10 October, 4.00pm Emsworth Community Centre

11 October, 11.30am and 2.30pm, The Spring, Havant

Join The Spring as it heads out on tour with I Believe in Unicorns, a delightful family theatre show about the power of storytelling and imagination – performed in your local library! (See page 5 for more show details) Tickets are just £3 for children and £5 for adults.

For further information about the show or to buy ticket: Box Office 023 9247 2700

8 October

The Teddy Bear Doctors

Portsmouth Museum, PO1 2LJ

10am – 1pm. Is your teddy bear poorly? Local teddy bear experts and restorers, Amanda and Julie from Bear It In Mind, will be available to answer any questions regarding age, identification or ‘clinical’ advice for your bear. Some treatments such as eye replacements and claw stitching will be available for a small charge on the day. Admission free.

Tel: 023 9283 4779

11 October

Havant Literary Festival: Mad about snails The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, Havant

1:30 pm. Sarah Lucas is a children’s author with a number of well-received books to her credit – including a whole series of adventures children have with giant African land snails. The latest

one is called Slime in Time. And just to emphasise the point, she will be bringing a collection of giant snails with her to this event. Go along and hear the story about what inspired her family to write, make a snail trail or do some colouring with swirly shapes and patterns.

Even hold a snail! This fun, interactive event is great for families with children aged 4 to 11. Free event.

Havant Literary Festival: Baking Life of Amelie Day The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, Havant

11:00am. Vanessa Curtis has succeeded in combining two things that fascinate younger children – story-telling and baking cakes. The Baking Life of Amelie Day is a lovely new children’s book. Come and meet the author, hear her tell the story and of course – try some of her cake! There will also be an opportunity to help decorate some cakes.

Particularly suitable for children from 8 and up. Free event.

11 - 12 October

Autumn Countryside Show

Weald and Downland Open Air Museum, Chichester

10.30am – 5pm. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of the countryside at harvest time. At this beautiful time of year, experience teams of heavy horses ploughing the fields and vintage tractors at work. Enjoy steam-powered threshing demonstrations alongside falconry and dog displays together with a fun dog show in the main arena.

See woodland and rural craft demonstrations, thatching and traditional competitions throughout the weekend.

Also there is a chance to browse and buy gifts with a countryside theme at the many craft and trade stands.

15 October

I Can Be an Artist!

Gallery @ Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport.

PO12 1BT

2 - 2:45pm. Instead of Story Time, under-5s with their parents or carers can pop in to Gosport Gallery’s Artists Rifles exhibition and create their own art work as well as enjoying hands-on fun and a story.

FREE, just come along

20 September/October 2014 | Families Solent East

18 October

25 October

Meet at Holly Hill main car park, off Barnes Lane, Sarisbury Green

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT

Chestnut Challenge

2.00 pm start The popular annual seed bash at Holly Hill Woodland Park has become a firm favourite, with the age-old game of ‘conkers’, played for the coveted trophy.

Join the Friends of Holly Hill as they polish their best seeds in readiness for the annual quest to find their very own conker champion! £1.00 enrolment fee, payable on the day.

Conkers will be supplied. 01329 221342

19 October

Southsea Farmers Market

Palmerston Road

Visiting one of the markets is a great way to spend some weekend time, where you can stroll around the stalls, chat to the producers, sample delicious and nutritious fresh food.

Andy and Mike’s Tick Tock Time Machine Kings Theatre, Albert Road, Southsea

Starring Andy Day from Andy’s Wild Adventures (CBeebies) alongside comedy partner Mike James. Join Andy and Mike as they go on a marvellous adventure in a Time Machine which sends them on a quest to collect the things they need from the past to help a very Old Andy in the future. Suitable for children over three

Sunday Gun firings.

Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill Road, Portsmouth, PO17 6AN

11.30am, 1pm, 3pm. See 21st September listing for details.

01329 848533

24 – 26 October

Autumn Steam Gala

Midhants Railway (The Watercress Line) The Railway Station Alresford, SO24 9JG

Our Autumn Steam Gala always aims for the spectacular, with a dazzling display of steam powered magic! This year we are working on a Great Western Railway theme. Over 3 days we run an intensive timetable - giving you the opportunity to ride behind as many of the engines as possible, as well as giving great photo opportunities.

Funny Bones Story Time

11am to 12 noon. Come and listen to a Funny Bones story and make your own scary skeleton. Suitable for under 10s accompanied by an adult.

FREE, just come along

25 October – 2 November “Get me out of here” Survival Undercover

Royal Marines Museum, Eastney Esplanade, Southsea, PO4 9PX Develop your skills as a covert agent in survival undercover themed activities this October.

Learn about the various ways Royal Marines have worked undercover through the ages, and try out some spying skills of your own. Activities run in all weather conditions. Normal Museum Admission applies.

023 9281 9385

25 - 26 October

Eastney Beam Engine House Open Days Eastney Beam House, Southsea.

See 27th September listing for details.

26 October

Sunday Gun firings

Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill Road See listing for 21st September for more details.

Great South Run

Southsea, Portsmouth

25th year of the annual Bupa Great South 10 mile run.

26 October – 2 November Halloween at Uppark

Uppark House and Garden, Petersfield.

11am-5pm (closed Fri & Sat).

There’s additional kids’ fun over half-term with Uppark’s scary Hallowe’en trails.

Younger children can take the route around the gardens, whilst older children can opt for the terrifying tunnel trail, which takes them into the clammy and dripping tunnels beneath the house! normal admission charge plus £2.

27 October

Make an Impression

Gallery @ Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, PO12 1BT 10.30am to 12.30pm. Come and be inspired by world famous artists like William Morris in our exhibition to create and print your own

What’s On “Art Nouveau” design. A booked artist-led art workshop suitable for age 6+. Tickets £4 per participating child with accompanying adults free.

Book ahead as places are limited. Telephone 023 9252 3463

27 – 31 October

Halloween Activities

10am – 5pm. Bring the children for some spooky half term fun in West Dean Gardens… if you dare. Adult – normal gardens entry (£8.10), Child £2.50

27 – 31 October

Roman Army Week

Fishbourne Roman Palace, Chichester, PO19 3QR

Get an army “tattoo”, try your hand at spear practice and see if you can earn your keep as a new recruit during Roman Army Week. Sign up with the recruitment officer and learn to write your name in Latin before completing a range of tasks to “earn” a day’s pay. Other activities include marching drill, archery, sword practice, Roman costume and tasting Roman food.

28 October

When We Were Children

SEARCH @ Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport.

PO12 1BT

10.30am to 12 noon. Children - bring your grandparents or great-grandparents on a half-term trip to our 1950’s house full of fascinating things and use the interview cards at the displays to question them about their childhood. FREE Just drop in.

29 October

Creepy Crawly Encounters

National Museum Royal Navy Portsmouth, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, PO1 3LJ 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm Creepy Crawly Encounters in the NMRN. Join Animal Encounters to meet some of the strange and sometimes scary stowaways that hid on ships as they travelled around the world. Come face to face with snakes, scorpions and rats and find out about the pets sailors kept on board.

Free, drop in activity, no ticket required, suitable for all ages.

Tel 023 9298 8622

Halloween Magic School

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT 9.30am to 3.30pm (please bring a spooky packed lunch). Local magician Matt Blossom returns to reveal the secrets of magic including how to make things vanish, incredible mind reading feats, street magic tricks plus mini-illusions! Tickets £25 for the two days. Please book on 023 9252 3463.

29 - 31 October,

Half term holiday art club Aspex Gallery, The Vulcan Building, Gunwharf Quays

11am – 3pm each day. Suitable for 8 – 13 year olds. Let them get creative in the half term holidays with the popular holiday workshops at Aspex Gallery. Call 023 9277 8080 or email vicky@aspex.org.uk for info, prices and to book.

GROW! COOK! EAT!

4 - 5 October 2014

Early bird prices until 26 Sept

£8.50 Adult, £1 Child

Moonlit Memories Meander

www.westdean.org.uk

#growcookeat

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

30 October

Short Breaks Spooky Staunton Staunton Country Park, Middle Park Way, Havant, PO9 5HB

10:30am. Part of the Short Breaks Program. Halloweenthemed activities and storytelling for children with disabilities and their families.

Booking essential. Tel 023 9245 3405

•

• Children’s Activities • TV Celebrity Guests • Food and Gardening Theatres • Live Folk Music

30 October

Starting at 6.30pm. Take part in this special night-time children’s sponsored walk in aid of The Rowans Hospice exploring areas of the historic naval base not normally open to the public and get to see the spectacular HMS Victory lit-up at night. You will also have the opportunity to make a memory star and light a candle in the church. The walk is 1.5 or 3 miles and open to all children.

Registration is £5 per child and the accompanying adult is free. Registration closes on 24 October. Call 023 9223 8533

Dean Edwards, ITV Day break chef

West Dean Gardens North Chichester, PO18 0QZ

BO Child OK ren NO £1 W !

28 - 29 October

COMEDY | THEATRE | MUSIC | FILM | TALKS | DANCE | LITERATURE | WORKSHOPS | EXHIBITIONS | MUSEUM | SHOP | CAFÉ

I BELIEVE IN UNICORNS

BY MICHAEL MORPURGO

“BREATHTAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL AND UTTERLY CHARMING…” PRIMARY TIMES

BY HOUSE AND WIZARD PRESENTS

Saturday 11 October 11.30am & 2.30pm

ON TOUR

FAMILY THEATRE

Other tour dates include:

All tickets £5 adults, £3 children Suitable for ages 5 to 11 years

The Spring is moving out beyond the walls with a delightful family performance in your local community venue.

Please pop in to The Spring for tickets or further information.

Tues 7 Oct, 6.30pm at Waterlooville Library Weds 8 Oct, 4.30pm at Leigh Park Library Thurs 9 Oct, 4.30pm at Hayling Island Library Fri 10 Oct, 4pm at Emsworth Community Centre

31 October - 2 November

Wizard Weekend

Midhants Railway (The Watercress Line) The Railway Station Alresford, SO24 9JG It’s time to board the Wizard Express! Watch the Watercress Line transform in to a >>>

BOOK NOW

In association with

BOX OFFICE 023 9247 2700 THESPRING.CO.UK

Families Solent East | September/October 2014 | 21

What’s On

place of magic and mischief on Halloween! Walk in Harry Potter’s footsteps over the railway footbridge where he received his Hogwarts Express ticket; the famous film location from Kings Cross station that is now at the Watercress Line!

Come dressed as a witch, wizard or Halloween spook and find out about bats, owls and all things magical! With craft activities, face painting*, Mr Wizard shows, handmade witches Besom brooms* and daily shows from the FalconHigh display team. It’s great value too as fares give you all day unlimited travel! *Additional fees apply.

Find out more and book your tickets in advance at www.watercressline.co.uk or pay on the day.

For lots more events including regular weekly events, visit our online What’s On guide at:

familiessolenteast.co.uk/whatson

2 November

Explosion Fireworks Spectacular Explosion Museum, Gosport

5pm until 8pm (Fireworks at 7pm). Events throughout the evening, including Fun Fair, Children’s Activities, Story Telling, Free admission to Explosion’s award winning galleries and fireworks spectacular at 7pm.

5 November Bonfire and Fireworks

King George V Playing Fields, Cosham, PO6 3TJ 023 9284 1400 Portsmouth City Council’s annual bonfire and fireworks display.

22 September/October 2014 | Families Solent East

To find more Halloween and Bonfire Night events please check the Families Solent East website in October.

Familiessolenteast.co.uk

Competitions Win one of three LumiPottis!

Win a Lands End backpack

Earlier this year Rachael Forder from Southsea launched the first ever potty for day and night toilet training.

LumiPotti is the day to night potty with a night light which encourages children’s natural progression through every stage for total toilet training.

This September send your kids back to school in style with the Lands’ End kids wear collection that includes durable outerwear and footwear in a range of colours and designs as well as fun back packs and lunchboxes that they’ll love! And as an exclusive for Families readers Lands’ End are giving away a kids’ backpack worth £50! Visit www.landsend.co.uk to view the entire collection.

LumiPotti’s innovative, movement activated night light helps children master night dryness. LumiPotti Light illuminates to guide your child safely to the potty, helping grow their confidence as they go nappy free at night. Night dry mastered, the LumiPotti Light becomes a portable night-light for that final stage, the independent night walk to the bathroom. LumiPotti’s removable night light helps children find their way for years to come.

Win a back to school package from Skip Hop Zoo Designs worth £55!

Children will be excited to get back to the classroom with Skip Hop Zoo’s animal-themed line-up of fun backpacks and lunch bags.

We have 2 Back to School sets to give away worth £55 each! Each set will include the following: Skip Hop Zoo Pack (backpack) Skip Hop Zoo Lunchie (lunch bag) Skip Hop Zoo Sandwich and Snack Set Skip Hop Zoo Straw Bottle The two lucky winners will be able to choose their packs in either the Owl or Monkey design.

For Skip Hop Zoo’s Full range visit www.maguari.com

Available for £23.99 plus P & P, through www.lumipotti.com or at a discounted rate you can buy direct from the LumiPotti office at 29 Highland Road, Southsea.

Competitions close 30th September 2014.

To enter these competitions visit

www.familiessolenteast.co.uk/competitions

Join Families Solent East online!

www.familiessolenteast.co.uk facebook.com/FSEmagazine twitter.com/FamiliesSolentE Families Solent East | September/October 2014 | 23

‘ We foster to enable children with specific needs to prosper and reach their full potential.’

Call now to find out more about fostering with Hampshire County Council

www.hants.gov.uk

55346 Pharmaton UK AD 87mm x 130mm AW.indd 1

08/07/2014 12:44