Families TVW September-October 2012

EE FR Thames Valley West

September/October 2012 Issue 61 • www.familiestvw.co.uk

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Thames Valley West

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

inthisissue ISSUE 61 • SEP/OCT 2012

Visit us now at www. familiestvw.co.uk

Editor’s Letter

22 Competitions

What a fantastic spectacle London 2012 turned out to be.

Team GB did us all proud and their heroics have hopefully inspired a new generation to get on their bikes, into the pool and onto the track. If your child is itching to take up a new sport, then turn to page 26 for our annual directory of clubs and classes. Many Olympians trained at local clubs so you never know where those first steps will lead!

There are plenty of other classes to try too, from art to dance and drama. And novice ‘dance mums’ (or dads), who are buying ballet shoes and dancewear for the first time, may find our guide on page 31 useful.

If your child is due to start, or move, school next year now is the time to be applying for a school place for them.

Why not begin by taking a look at our schools feature for details of open days and admissions? We’ve also got plenty of local school and education news.

And, for those of you with much younger children, we have an article on page 6 that gives some suggestions for dealing with that age-old problem – a baby that just won’t sleep.

23 Halloween

Karen and Jane

4

News & Views

6

Go To Sleep, Please …

Tips for getting baby to sleep

8

Schools Feature

8 11

13 14

School News Independent School Open Days School Admissions Education News

16 What’s On

Fun

24 Clubs &

Our front cover photograph is courtesy of F&F Schoolwear

Classes Special

24 25 26

31

Don’t miss these great offers and competitions

Class News Keeping Kids Fit for Life Clubs & Classes Directory Ballet for Beginners Guide to dancewear

Free 5-week online learning trial with Reading Eggs – page 15 Free entry for second child at Bucklebury Farm Park – page 18 Win tickets to Odds Farm Park – page 22 Win a labelling kit from Attach-a-tag – page 22 Win performing arts classes from BARTA – page 22 Win tickets to Cinderella at The Corn Exchange – page 22 Child goes free* at LEGOLAND – page 22 Enjoy 3 lessons for £10 with Jo Jingles – page 22 £5 off Ascot Family Days – www.familiestvw.co.uk/offers * with full paying adult

To advertise: Tel: 0118 954 6893 adverts@familiestvw.co.uk Contact us: editor@familiestvw.co.uk

Thames Valley West

Designed by: Graphic Resolutions 01438 871600 Next issue: November/December – Xmas, Early Years Booking Deadline – 1 October Competitions Winners from July/August issue Easy2Name sets: Faye James, Chris Szmidt, Belinda Meaden, Laura Thairs, Wendy Todd

Thames Valley West

PAGE 3

News & Views Cbeebies star honoured by University of Reading Justin Fletcher, better-known to younger viewers as Mr Tumble, has been awarded an honorary degree in his home town of Reading.

Justin has appeared in many children’s TV shows including Tikkabilla and Springwatch, as well as being the voice of Shaun the Sheep in the award-winning animation. A regular star in pantomimes, he is performing again this Christmas at Reading’s Hexagon Theatre.

Justin Fletcher meets children of University of Reading staff Upon receiving his degree Justin said: “I’m thrilled to be honoured in this way and enjoyed the day immensely. The London Road campus is a hidden gem and the Great Hall is magnificent. To be presented with the Honorary Degree from Professor Andy Kempe, who was my drama teacher at Theale Green School in Reading, was extra special as he really encouraged and supported me.”

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• Bear Making Parties • Fabric Painting Parties • Theme Parties Visit our website for current prices. or call us on 07764 849828 or e-mail: popinparties@tiscali.co.uk

Explore London Central London made a fantastic backdrop to several London 2012 events and watching on TV will have inspired many of us to visit its famous landmarks. If you feel a little daunted taking the children, a new series of little books could help. Step Outside Guides offer themed days out by foot and by bus, discovering fascinating places and wonderful surprises in the capital.

The days are great for every age, and the books are specially designed so that children from about nine years old can hold the book and take the lead. There are things to spot and questions to consider all through the book and rest your-legs pages with puzzles and

activities for weary moments.

Each book features an animal character, brought to life by delightful illustrations. The animal lives on the route, and acts as your escort, highlighting his Top Treasures along the way.

Francesca Fenn and Margie Skinner, the mothers who wrote the guides, know all about those little things that make a day out work for everyone. So good picnic spots are noted, free toilets are clearly marked and accessibility details for buggies and wheelchairs are included.

The London Treasure Trail, Down by the Thames and The London Lion Hunt cost £5 and are available from www. stepoutsideguides.com and selected museum and book shops.

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To find out more, call: 0118 934 0355 or visit: www.halcyon-brw.co.uk 55 High Street, Twyford, Berkshire, RG10 9AJ

PAGE 4

Thames Valley West

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

News & Views Baby Sensations

New nursery school for West Berkshire Englefield Nursery School is due to open this September, offering parents a small friendly preschool with places for children aged 3-5 years. Set in Englefield, an area of outstanding natural beauty, the preschool will provide a fantastic environment for children to play, learn and develop.

A small team of qualified and experienced staff members are ready to provide the highest standards of care and education. Children will have access to a wide range of toys and equipment, both indoors and outdoors, and learning through play will be encouraged. Activities will include arts and crafts, music and singing, cooking, computer time, sand and water play, role play and gardening. Snacks will be sourced from Englefield’s Market Garden. All fruit and vegetables are grown naturally on their site.

Englefield Nursery School will be offering the government funded Early Years entitlement which entitles all 3 and 4 year olds to 15 hours of free preschool education and childcare.

Call 07554 090 647 or email enquiries@englefieldnurseryschool.co.uk now for further information or to arrange a visit. Further details can be found at www.englefieldnurseryschool.co.uk

0118 935 3759 or 07738 566 646 E-mail info@babysensations.co.uk

Career with NCT

Top baby names

by Joanna Parry

Harry and Amelia are a big hit with new parents. For the first time ever they have topped the list of most popular baby names, replacing Oliver and Olivia from 2010. New entries in the top 100 names for girls include Bella, Willow and Elsie and for boys Tommy, Blake and Frankie.

Top 5 Names in England & Wales Boys 1. Harry 2. Oliver 3. Jack 4. Charlie 5. Alfie

A simply sense-sational experience for you and your baby ...

Baby massage taught in the comfort of your own home, or join one of our local classes.

Would you like to train as a practitioner with NCT? The University of Worcester and NCT have joined forces to provide universityaccredited training for those wanting to support parents on their journey from pregnancy to parenthood. The course offers flexible training, perfect for anyone considering a change to a more familyfriendly career or looking to return to work after having a baby.

With tutorials across the UK and study days hosted regionally, students can complete the majority of their studies without travelling to Worcester. So, if you’re looking for a rewarding job you can fit around your family, becoming an NCT practitioner could be just the thing. www.nct.org.uk/nct-college

Tip of the month

Girls 1. Amelia 2. Olivia 3. Lily 4. Jessica 5. Emily

For a list of the top 100 names visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/topnames

Who says trampolines are just for vertical bouncing up and down? When the springs went on her children’s old trampoline, ingenious mum Anne Hulett came up with the clever idea of tipping it on its side: “My children now use it for tennis practice,” she says. Bouncier and much more fun, apparently, than just hitting the ball against a wall, and the idea also works for football. “It keeps them busy for hours, not to mention wearing them out before bed.” Advantage, Mrs Hulett!

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Viewuswww.familiestvw.co.uk for the latest news Visit now at www. familiestvw.co.uk

Thames Valley West

PAGE 5

Baby Page

Photo courtesy Baby Sleep Shop www.babysleepshop.com

Go to sleep, Magical music & sensory play classes from birth to four years Contact us now for a FREE taster!

Henley & Bracknell liz@hartbeeps.com 01628 639727 www.hartbeeps.com

By Joanna Parry

Mummy’s Maid “an extra pair of

It’s the first questions new mums ask – how can I get my baby to sleep? “The moment I put him down, he just howls!” We have all, at some time or other, rocked our baby to sleep, taken them out in the car or put them in the pram and pounded the pavements to get them to sleep. But it doesn’t have to be like this. Here are our top tips to encourage your baby to sleep.

hands that understand”

Mummy’s Maid was created with busy individuals in mind – our main aim is to make life easier and help create more time for you.

We can provide services to suit all of your household, cleaning and childcare requirements without the need for long term contracts. Each contract is a minimum of two hours long and prices start from £13.50.

Every baby is different. Some sleep through from the start, others won’t sleep more than an hour or two at a time. Although there’s no way to force a baby to sleep through the night, there are steps you can take that can help baby not only sleep through sooner, but also establish healthy sleep habits for life.

Call 0845 463 0075 or visit www.mummysmaid.co.uk

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Thames Valley West

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Learn the signs that your baby is tired. If they’re fussing, grizzling, crying, pulling their ears, rubbing eyes or are especially clingy, they’re probably sleepy.

Teach the difference between day and night. In the daytime, play with your baby. Chat and sing to them, keep their room light and bright. Don’t try to cut out the radio or washing machine. At night, stay quiet when you feed, keep lights and noise low and hopefully your baby will work out that night-time is for sleeping!

Give your baby a security object, blanket or stuffed animal. A great way to make teddy a favourite is to keep it near you so it becomes mum-scented. Stretch one of your t-shirts over baby’s mattress - when they startle awake the smell of mum can calm them.

Put your baby down awake. If they’ve become sleepy on the breast or bottle, rouse them slightly before putting them in their cot. How to put your baby to sleep is a matter of debate but whether you use controlled crying or co-sleeping, it’s important to find the way that works for you. I suggest giving your baby a chance to fall asleep Establishing a bedtime routine. A routine on their own. It might be OK to rock them to provides babies with security and comfort and sleep in the middle of the day but not so much can encourage them to sleep fun at 3am! If in the first few for longer spells. Establishing weeks your baby is allowed a routine can be tricky with to fall asleep during a feed or Helpful websites a newborn, but try to get stroked until they are asleep, For support call the Cry-sis a loose schedule started, they’ll soon depend on it. helpline on 08451 228669 especially at bedtime. Your Teach your baby to settle (9am-10pm every day). baby will be more relaxed if itself. If your baby cries, allow www.nhs.uk they know what’s coming, them to cry for 3 minutes, then www.contentedbaby.com and the more relaxed they comfort them but don’t pick www.4little1.com are, the more likely they’ll them up. Let them cry for 5 www.babycentre.co.uk fall asleep easily. Before more minutes and return again. www.bbc.co.uk/health bedtime let your baby get Extend the time you wait before any pent-up energy out of returning each time and your their system with tummy baby will learn to soothe itself and fall asleep time or a kickabout, then follow it up with a without assistance. It’s difficult listening to your bath and lullaby. Dim the light when you’re baby cry but this method does usually work, feeding and put on a CD of children’s favourites. although it may take a few days.

Whatever you do, do the same thing every night.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Baby Page

please…

Top tips

Photo courtesy NCT shop Bedsid e crib www.nctshop.co.uk

• Make the last feed of the day a big one • Don’t rush to baby at every whimper - many of their noises are attempts to fall asleep • Incorporate baby massage into your bedtime routine • Make sure baby’s room isn’t too hot • Place a warm towel on the sheets to warm baby’s bed, remove it just before putting baby down

The settle-and-leave method. If you don’t want to leave your baby to cry, pick them up and talk to them until they stop screaming (or try to settle them without picking them up, which is even better). If they cry again pick them up again. It might take 100 gos, but you’ll get there!

Stay by the cot. Some parents choose to stay with their child as they fall asleep but unless you want to do this forever gradually move further away.

After a week you’re sitting by the door and, finally, you need no longer stay.

If your baby is upset, go to them and say “night, night”, then go back to your place in the room.

Be consistent. Whichever approach you take, it’s no good doing it one night and not bothering the next.

You’re not just doing it for you. ‘Training’ your baby to self-settle at night will have positive effects on their general outlook during waking hours. Letting your baby settle themselves gives independence, confidence and security.

Remember, your child won’t love you any less in the morning!

Remember the advice on cot death. SIDS is rare and the exact cause isn’t known, but researchers think there are likely to be a number of factors that can affect a baby at a vulnerable stage of development. www.fsid.org.uk advises placing baby on their back to sleep (not on the front or side). Don’t let your baby get too hot, and keep their head uncovered. Place your baby with their feet to the foot of the cot or use a baby sleeping bag. Don’t use a duvet or pillow until baby is over one year old. Never sleep with your baby on a sofa or armchair and don’t let anyone smoke in your home.

If you’re concerned about your child’s health seek advice from a doctor.

Sometimes there are medical causes of nightwaking, such as gastroesophageal reflux (GER) or allergies.

Remember, a happy mother equals a happy baby. Learning good sleep habits early on will stand both of you in good stead for the future, and your baby will appreciate the consistency and predictability. Don’t expect miracles right away, but persevere and be consistent. Good luck!

View www.familiestvw.co.uk for the latest news

Taking prints is easy - Order online, host a print party, book an appointment or visit us at an event.

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Osteopathy Physiotherapy Acupuncture Cranial Osteopathy Sports Massage Nutritional Consultancy Homeopathy

Exceptional care in a friendly, relaxed environment 0118 976 2253

Bridge Farm, Farley Farms, Reading Road, Arborfield,Reading, RG2 9HT

Thames Valley West

PAGE 7

Back to School READING BLUE COAT SCHOOL Independent Day School • Boys 11-18; Girls 16 -18

School

FAMILY OPEN MORNINGS SATURDAY 29th SEPTEMBER SATURDAY 6th OCTOBER for Sixth Form entry Tours of the school will start between 9:30 and 11:00 am.

Please register online at www.rbcs.org.uk Reading Blue Coat School • Holme Park • Sonning • RG4 6SU • 0118 944 1005 Registered charity number 1087839

Holme Grange School Holme Grange School is set in an idyllic setting in the Wokingham countryside where the woodland provides the boys and girls with amazing outdoor learning experiences to supplement their classroom lessons. The younger children enjoy regular sessions in their own Forest School where the exploration and special tasks within the natural environment develop their confidence and self-esteem. The latest addition to Holme Grange’s leading-edge outdoor education programme is the TLC Hub where older children work on their Teamwork, Leadership and Communication skills.

There has been some extra excitement for the children at Holme Grange as builders and diggers have been on site working on extending Little Grange Nursery which opens its doors in September 2012. This spacious purpose-built facility will provide the very best Early Years education with its own outdoor play area and garden.

Contact: 0118 978 1566, www.holmegrange.org

The Oratory School The Oratory School was founded in 1859

by Blessed John Henry Newman. St Philip House, (Years 7 & 8), is named after the Patron Saint of the School, St Philip Neri, who founded the Oratory movement.

Small class sizes ensure a close monitoring of work, with a wide choice of academic subjects. Excellent on site facilities include a Sports Centre (due to be reshaped over the next two years), a nine-hole golf course, extensive rugby and cricket pitches, tennis courts, an indoor shooting range and one of only three Real Tennis courts in the country. Every year the boys experience some form of trip, whether cultural or sporting, as well as taking part in academic competitions and music and drama productions. A new Theatre is planned for the end of the year. Boys are therefore given every chance to expand their talents and interests in a relaxed yet disciplined atmosphere.

Contact: 01491 683 500, www.oratory.co.uk

PAGE 8

Thames Valley West

Visit us now at www. familiestvw.co.uk

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Back to School

News On track for mountain biking fun Pupils in Eversley and Finchampstead have been getting in a spin over a new mountain bike track. Children at St Neot’s Preparatory School recently celebrated the unveiling of the new track, following weeks of hard work getting it ready. The origins of the track go back several years to when a group of Year 8 pupils and their parents decided to put in a couple of mounds and bumps for the benefit of the after-school mountain biking club.

The new track, which has yet to be named, consists of two loops running through the school’s surrounding woodlands with a series of obstacles and bumps, with the second longer loop of just over half a mile still under construction.

Contact: 0118 973 9650, www.st-neots-prep.co.uk

Why choose Bearwood College?

Continuity: Bearwood College offers high quality care and education to boys and girls aged from 3 months to 18 years through Nursery, PrePrep, Prep and Senior Departments. As a friendly and welcoming throughschool, Bearwood is able to provide a stable yet evolving learning environment to meet the ever-changing needs of your developing child.

Campus: The magnificent surroundings of the extensive campus enable the children to explore, discover and learn in a safe and attractive setting. Bearwood College is fortunate to enjoy 125 acres of stunning grounds with a splendid Victorian Mansion House at the centre. The school makes the most of this wonderful campus by conducting some academic lessons as well as extracurricular activities outdoors.

Community: The supportive community of pastoral and academic staff underpins life at Bearwood College with a dedication that helps every child achieve their full potential, in whatever direction their abilities lie. Pupils will receive focused personal attention and their particular talents will be noticed and nurtured.

Convenience: Not only is Bearwood convenient to get to, but it is conveniently flexible for family life. An optional Saturday Morning Activity Programme is offered, so pupils can pursue interesting pastimes whilst busy parents complete their chores – or even have a lie in!

Contact: 0118 974 8300, www.bearwoodcollege.co.uk

Over two decades of Montessori education Meadowbrook Montessori School has been delivering robust, childcentred education for over 20 years. Children are welcomed to the school from the time they can walk (through the weekly parent and toddler sessions), gradually increasing their sessions through the pre-primary department, continuing into primary and then graduating successfully at 11 years.

High academic standards are achieved through very small class sizes and a personalised learning approach. The application of Positive Discipline© is also unique, resulting in children achieving high standards in their personal and social behaviour and work ethic.

Montessori education is based on the fundamental belief that a child learns best within an environment that supports and nurtures their individual needs and development. The whole child is considered important and Meadowbrook’s approach marries the best of Montessori practice with many aspects of the National Curriculum, thoroughly preparing children for a wide range of secondary schools.

Meadowbrook provides a seamless route through the most important years of a child’s education.

Contact: 01344 890 869, www.meadowbrookmontessori.org

Interested in school issues? Visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/education

Thames Valley West

PAGE 9

Back to School

ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGE The independent day school in Reading for girls aged 3–18

Reg. Charity no. 277077

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Come to an open event where our girls will show you around and tell you why they love their school.

Junior School and Early Years Open Morning • Friday 28 September 9.15 - 11.00 am Senior School Open Morning and Evening • Tuesday 25 September 5.30 - 8.30 pm • Friday 12 October 9.00 - 10.30 am

Open DAYS Tuesday 18 September 2012 9.15 am - 12.15 pm Thursday 18 October 2012 9.15 am - 12.15 pm

For times of Head’s talks and for more information please visit our website. For enquiries contact Admissions on 0118 987 2256 or email admissions@theabbey.co.uk

To reserve a place at the Open Day, please call the Registrar on 0118 966 1000 or email admissions@sjcr.org.uk. We look forward to seeing you.

www.theabbey.co.uk CROSFIELDS SCHOOL

www.sjcr.org.uk

FamiliesAd87x130Aug2012V3.indd 1

06/08/2012 09:48 am

READING • BERKSHIRE

Co-educational Independent Day Preparatory School for children aged 3-13

or n ow f N ring 15 eptio e / t c TH is 4 e reg 201 & R y r se 9:15am to 11.30am ur N 9.30am Headmaster’s welcome, followed by group tours.

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“The overall achievement of pupils is high and their attainment is far above age-related expectations.” ISI Inspection 2011

Come and experience the happy, caring and stimulating environment we provide.

‘The Family School of Choice’ CROSFIELDS SCHOOL, Shinfield Road, Reading, RG2 9BL. 0118 9871810 or pa@crosfields.com. Visit www.crosfields.com

PAGE 10

Thames Valley West

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Back to School

Independent School Open Days Bracknell and Ascot

St Edwards School, Reading (boys only, 4-13 yrs) 0118 957 4342 www.stedwards.org.uk Open Morning Fri 5 Oct, 9-11am.

Photo courtesy Duane Barrett - In The Frame Studios. www.intheframestudios.co.uk

LVS Ascot (co-ed day & boarding, 4-18 yrs)

01344 882 770 www.lvs.ascot.sch.uk Junior & Senior School Open Morning Wed 24 Oct, Senior School Saturday tour 22 Sept, Sixth Form Saturday tour 13 Oct, 9.45am-12noon. Please telephone the Registrar to reserve a place or email registrar@lvs.ascot.sch.uk

St Joseph’s College, Reading (co-ed 3-18yrs) 0118 966 1000 www.stjosephscollegereading.co.uk Prep Open Mornings Tue 18 Sept and Thu 18 Oct, 9.15am-12.15pm, College Open Afternoons Tue 18 Sept, 2–4pm, College Open Evening (largest one of the year) Thu 4 Oct, 6.30-9pm.

Meadowbrook Montessori School, Malt Hill, Warfield (co-ed, 18mths-12yrs) 01344 890 869 www.meadowbrookmontessori.org Open Day Sat 20 Oct, 10.30am.

South of Reading The Cedars School, Aldermaston (co-ed day, 4-11yrs)

The Marist Preparatory School, Ascot (girls only,

0118 971 4251 enquiries@thecedarsschool.co.uk www.thecedarsschool.co.uk Open Mornings Thu 27 Sept and Thu 15 Nov, 9.30am-12noon.

2½-11yrs) 01344 626 137 www.themaristschools.com Open Morning Wed 10 Oct, 9.45-11.30am.

The Marist Senior School, Ascot (girls only, 11-18yrs)

Crosfields School, Shinfield (co-ed day prep, 3-13yrs)

01344 624 291 www.themaristschools.com Open Evening Thu 27 Sept, 4.30-8pm and Open Morning Tue 2 Oct, 10.30am-12noon.

0118 987 1810 pa@crosfields.com www.crosfields.com Open Morning Tue 18 Sept, 9.15-11.30am with Head’s Address at 9.30am.

Our Lady’s Preparatory School and Day Nursery, Crowthorne (Catholic day school, co-ed,

St Neot’s Preparatory School, Eversley (co-ed day

3mths-11yrs) 01344 773 394 www.olps.co.uk Open Mornings Fri 14 Sept and Sat 15 Sept, 9.30am-12noon

& weekly boarding school, 3 mths-13 yrs) 0118 973 2118 www.stneotsprep.co.uk Open Morning Sat 29 Sept, 10am-12noon.

Wellington College (co-ed day & boarding school,

Oxfordshire Cranford House, near Wallingford (girls 3-16yrs & boys

13-18yrs) 01344 444 000 www.wellingtoncollege.org.uk Open Day Sat 17 Nov. Please register in advance.

Dragon School, Oxford (co-ed day 4-8yrs, co-ed day

Yateley Manor School, Yateley (co-ed day school with nursery, 3-13 yrs) 01252 405 500 www.yateleymanor.com Open Mornings Fri 5 Oct, 9.45am and Sat 17 Nov, 10am. Please call to book your place.

3-7yrs) 01491 651 218 www.cranfordhouse.net Open Morning Sat 13 Oct, 9.30am-12noon. Private Tours available throughout the year, please contact school for details.

& boarding school 8-13yrs) 01865 315 405 enquiries@dragonschool.org www.dragonschool.org Please register with school for open mornings on Sat 22 Sept and Sat 13 Oct.

Radley College, Abingdon (boarding school, boys only 13-18yrs) 01235 543 174 www.radley.org.uk Please contact school for details.

Rupert House School, Henley-on-Thames (day school, boys 3-7yrs, girls 3-11yrs) 01491 574 263, www.ruperthouse.org Open Morning Tue 25 Sept, 10am-12noon.

Shiplake College, Shiplake (day & boarding school, boys

11–18yrs, girls sixth form) 0118 940 2455 www.shiplake.org.uk Open Morning Sat 22 Sept, 10am-1pm.

The Oratory School, Woodcote (Catholic day & boarding school 11-18yrs) 01491 683 500 enquiries@oratory.co.uk www.oratory.co.uk Open Morning Sat 29 Sept, 9.30am-12noon with headmaster’s address at 9.40am.

The Oratory Preparatory School, Goring Heath (Catholic, co-ed day & boarding school, 3-13 yrs) 0118 984 4511 www.oratoryprep.co.uk Open Morning Sat 6 Oct, 10am–12.30pm.

Reading The Abbey School, Reading (girls only, 3-18yrs) 0118

987 2256 registrar@theabbey.co.uk www.theabbey.co.uk Open Morning Junior School & Early Years Fri 28 Sept,

9.15-11am, Senior School Open Evening Tue 25 Sept 5.30-8.30pm and Senior School Open Morning Fri 12 Oct, 9-10.30am.

Caversham Preparatory School, Caversham (co-ed day school, 3-11yrs) 0118 947 8684 www.cavershamschool.com Open Mornings Sat 22 Sept and Sat 6 Oct, 10am-12noon with Headteacher’s talk at 10.15am.

Dolphin School, Hurst, Reading (co-ed 3-13yrs) 0118 934 1277 www.dolphinschool.com Open Morning Fri 5 Oct, 11am-12.30pm.

West Berkshire

Alder Bridge Steiner School, Padworth (co-ed, 3-13yrs) 0118 971 4471 www.alderbridge.org.uk Open Morning Sat 6 Oct, 10am-1pm.

Pangbourne College, Pangbourne (co-ed, 11-18yrs) 0118 984 2101 www.pangbournecollege.com Please contact school for details.

Wokingham Bearwood College, Wokingham (co-ed day nursery,

Hemdean House School, Caversham (co-ed infant & junior, girls only 11-18yrs) 0118 947 2590 www.hemdeanhouse.co.uk Please contact the school for details.

prep & senior school, 3mths-18yrs, boarders welcomed 11-18 yrs) 0118 974 8300 www.bearwoodcollege.co.uk Open Morning for Whole School Sat 13 Oct, 10am-12noon, Senior School Wed 19 Sept, 9.15am and Wed 21 Nov, 9.15am.

Leighton Park School, Reading (co-ed day & boarding,

Holme Grange School, Wokingham, (co-ed day school, 3-13yrs) 0118 978 1566 www.holmegrange.org Open Morning Sat 29 Sept, 9.30am-12noon.

11-18yrs) 0118 987 9600 www.leightonpark.com Annual Open Morning Sat 6 Oct. Please register online.

Queen Anne’s School, Caversham (day & boarding, girls only, 11-18yrs) 0118 918 7333 www.qas.org.uk/bookonline Open Morning Sat 15 Sept, 9.30am, Fun Day Sat 6 Oct, 11+ Boarding Taster Weekend Sat 6 and Sun 7 Oct. Contact school to reserve your place.

Luckley Oakfield School, Wokingham (girls only day & boarding, 11-18yrs) 0118 978 4175 www.luckley.wokingham.sch.uk Open Mornings Sat 13 Oct and Wed 17 Oct, 9.30am-12noon.

Reading Blue Coat School, Sonning (day, boys 11-18yrs, girls 16-18yrs) 0118 944 1005 www.rbcs.org.uk Open Morning Sat 29 Sept from 9.30am, Open Morning for 6th Form Entry Sat 6 Oct.

Waverley School & Nursery, Wokingham, (co-ed, 3mths-11yrs) 0118 973 1121 www.waverleyschool.co.uk Open Day Sat 13 Oct, 10am-1pm, or contact school for a time to suit you.

BEARWOOD COLLEGE

Senior School at Work: Wed 19 Sept 9.15am Whole School Family Open Day: Sat 13 Oct 10am-12pm

Personal tours available at your convenience, please call Nursery 0118 979 3964, Prep 0118 989 2562 or Senior 0118 974 8300 Wokingham, Berkshire RG41 5BG www.bearwoodcollege.co.uk

Interested in school issues? Visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/education

Thames Valley West

PAGE 11

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Thames Valley West

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Starting School in 2013?

It’s already time for parents to be thinking about applying for state school places for September 2013. Here’s a quick guide to help get you started.

Photo courtesy Polarn O. Pyret

When do I need to apply?

For children due to start primary school in the 2013/2014 academic year (those born between 1 Sept 2008 and 31 Aug 2009), applications need to be received by 15 January 2013. Children who attend an Infant school and who will be moving up to Junior School in September 2013 also need to apply for a place by this date.

For children in Year 6 the deadline for secondary school applications is 31 October 2012.

Where do I apply?

Applications need to be made to the Local

Local authority contact details

Bracknell Forest Council Tel. 01344 354 023 www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk Oxfordshire County Council Tel. 01865 815 175 www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/admissions Reading Borough Council Tel. 0118 937 2550 www.reading.gov.uk/schooladmissions West Berkshire Council Tel. 01635 519 771 www.westberks.gov.uk/schools Wokingham Borough Council Tel. 0118 974 6245 /6143 /6111 /6146 www.wokingham.gov.uk/admissions

Authority (LA) area in which you live. You can apply for schools outside your area but still need to do this through your home authority.

How do I apply?

Each authority produces a School Admissions Guide which includes all the information you will need to make your application including details of all the state schools in that area. The Guide is available to download from the authority website or to order, see blue box for contact details, as well as through local nurseries, schools and libraries. You can apply either online or by paper application form and can select several schools ranked in order of preference.

What if I want to apply for Kendrick or Reading School?

If you want to try for a place at either of the Reading grammar schools, you will have to apply to the school to sit their entrance test, in addition to applying to your LA. The deadline for applications is 24 September with tests being sat on 1 October. This is earlier than in the past to allow the results of the tests to be sent to parents before the deadline for LA applications.

How will my child be allocated a place?

Applications are co-ordinated between authorities and each of your school preferences is treated equally. If a school is oversubscribed, and many are in our area, then set criteria such as catchment (designated) area, sibling rules and distance from the home address to school are used to determine which children will be offered a place. The Admissions Guide contains details of school admissions policies and catchment areas and it is very important to use these to assess your child’s chances of securing a place.

Remember, even if you live within a school’s catchment area you are not guaranteed a place.

You will receive an offer for the highest ranked school on your application that is able to give your child a place.

What if none of my ranked schools is able to offer my child a place?

Your child will be offered a place at the nearest school to your home address that still has places available. It is therefore important to use all your preferences to maximise your chances of getting a school that you are happy with.

Useful links • schoolsfinder.direct.gov.uk – find schools closest to you with details of their OFSTED reports, recent exam results and school profile • www.direct.gov.uk/choosingaschool provides a range of information to help you when applying and appealing for a school place • www.ace-ed.org.uk – has a useful downloadable guide to applying to schools • www.familiestvw.co.uk/schoolchoice advice on finding the right school for your child

A quality education from start to finish COME AND SEE THE SCHOOL Call us to book your tour with the Head Teacher

A varied and stimulating curriculum Outstanding pastoral care Separate Junior School with modern facilities Small classes where children feel valued and inspired

01344 882770

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A Co-educational Independent Day & Boarding School for young people aged 4 - 18 A Co-educational Independent Day & Boarding School for young people aged 4 - 18

Interested in school issues? Visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/education

Thames Valley West

PAGE 13

Back to School Education Round-up

Confidence and Success for all....

Open Mornings

29th September 2012 18th January 2013 9:30am to 12:00pm

Inspiring independence, confidence and well being.

Delivering a creative experience, sporting prowess and academic excellence in an idyllic, unforgettable setting.

Help your child get off to a flying start in the new term

Please contact us if you are interested to learn more about how your child could benefit from a truly unique experience at Holme Grange—a great preparation for life.

Rupert House School Henley-on-Thames

“Making High Flyers” New Class for younger pupils from 3 yrs from September 2012 Happy, thriving, independent day school in the heart of Henley for boys 3-7 & girls 3-11 yrs.

• ‘Outstanding’ Early Years Foundation Stage 2011 • Small class sizes • ‘Wonderful’ Performing & Creative Arts • ‘Excellent’ academic record with all pupils achieving their first choice of school • Established “Forest School” on-site

Open Day Tues 25 Sept 10.00am–12 noon

01491 574263 www.ruperthouse.org office@ruperthouse.oxon.sch.uk

PAGE 14

Thames Valley West

Research has found that at least two thirds of children fall behind in their studies over the summer holidays. This large gap in studying can leave a child feeling insecure in their ability, which in turn can lead to a lack of confidence during September.

The beginning of a new academic year is an ideal time to seek extra support. Explore Learning is a network of maths and English tuition centres for children aged 5 to 14, designed to improve knowledge, confidence and enjoyment of learning. With 63 centres located nationwide, they are the perfect way to help your child get off to a flying start in the new term. The nearest centre is inside Sainsburys at Calcot so call for your free trial on 0118 942 4002 or visit www.explorelearning.org.uk/reading

Omega 3 and benefits of fish oil Uniforms, shoes and stationery are just some of the stresses to face parents at this time of year, but how do you ensure your child is on the road to a healthy development if they are a fussy eater?

Recent studies have shown that children who have an omega-3 enriched diet have a significantly higher cognitive performance, are protected against some childhood diseases and go on to have better health in adulthood. Persuading your child to eat fish 2-3 times a week can be a struggle. Nordic Naturals range of chewable gummies are an easy way to get all the benefits of omega3s and multivitamins into our children’s diets. Each product is naturally fruit-flavoured and free from any fishy taste – choose from favourites like Omega-3 Gummy Worms and Nordic Berries.

These feet were made for walking In Sweden, children learn none of the three Rs until the age of six. Instead they are encouraged to play and are taken on nature walks every day (even in the bitter Scandinavian winter). And guess what? By the age of ten, Swedish children rank amongst the most literate in Europe (which is higher than the UK). We may not be able to change the national curriculum overnight, but we can at least make sure our children get their daily dose of nature, if only by ditching the car and scheduling walk-to-school time. Through the park or along a tree-lined street if feasibly possible, collecting leaves, blackberries and conkers along the way. Set off early enough and this could create relaxed, quality time to chat with your child. A great start to the day for both of you.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Back to School Get ahead with online learning Are you looking for a program to help your children learn while they play and to support their school learning? If so, why not register for a free, no obligation trial to Reading Eggs.

The Reading Eggs program has been created to help children aged 3-7 learn to read and develop their reading skills further. Included are reading and spelling lessons, an introduction to comprehension and grammar, a story factory where children can put together their own books, plus games and activities to keep children motivated. It uses a teaching system of phonics thus supporting what children learn at school.

Older children can move onto the next level of the program, Reading Eggspress, designed for 7-13 year olds and focusing on comprehension and grammar, writing and reading fluency. A highly engaging spinning island is used to draw and keep attention.

The program is all online and can be used on a computer, laptop and most tablets making it instantly attractive to children.

Take a 5-week free trial and see for yourself the difference it could make. Simply visit www.readingeggs.co.uk, click the ‘Parents click here’ button and follow the set up instructions.

Once your account has been activated and you have added a child enter code UKB24TVW.

Affordable private education

Places available in Reception and Year One • Wrap around care for 51 weeks of the year • Opening times 8am - 6pm each day extended to 6am-8pm by arrangement, with core school day 8.45am - 3.45pm

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• Small class sizes

per Just £500 month

Our Lady’s Preparatory School The Avenue, Crowthorne, Berks RG45 6PB Tel: 01344 773394 Email: office@olps.co.uk

www.ourladysprep.co.uk

More than a building In September 2011 All Saints Junior School in Reading was one of the first 16 Free Schools to open in the country. It’s been a busy year for the fledgling school and this term pupils make the exciting move into their brand-new school buildings.

Parent and chair of governors, Katherine Knight, told us: “The school is ‘ours’ in the sense that it has been parents and people in the community who have made it happen and have made it special.

The first 16 pupils spent last year in a room off a church hall with a remembrance garden as a playground. It didn’t matter. They have all thrived, the teachers have survived and every day we turned up the building opposite grew a little bit more.

“Moving into our £1 million premises opposite the infants will be an exciting moment and one we’ll all enjoy. What we’ve learnt, though, this year is that it’s not the building that counts, it’s the staff and they couldn’t have been more inspirational.”

You can read more about how the school came about and the trials and successes of its first year in an inspiring article written by Katherine and available online at www.familiestvw.co.uk/AllSaintsSchool

Wokingham school attendance best in the country Attendance figures for schools in the Wokingham Borough are the best in the country, according to the latest government statistics. Wokingham primary and secondary school students are at the front of the class with the highest attendance rate in England - 96.1 per cent.

Interested in school issues? Visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/education

Thames Valley West

PAGE 15

What’s On

Diary Dates 5-6 Sept – TODDLER DAYS: NURSERY RHYMES at The Look Out

Discovery Centre, Bracknell, 01344 354 400, www.bracknell-forest.gov. uk/lookout Special activities for toddlers with face or hand painting, play dough, story telling and make-and-take activities. £6.45 for adult and toddler, £1.50 for each additional toddler (max. of 3), includes entrance to the hands on science and nature exhibition. 10am-4pm.

6-9 Sept – HERITAGE OPEN DAYS, www.heritageopendays.org.uk Properties across England are throwing open their doors for free in this annual celebration of architecture, history and culture. Many are not normally open to the public and lots offer family friendly events. We have listed a few but visit the website for details of lots more.

Autumn Term Activities at Bracknell Leisure Centre 3rd September - 22nd December

8 Sept – HERITAGE OPEN DAY PICNIC at Popes Meadow, off St Marks Rd, Binfield, RG42 4A, 01344 354 441, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ parksandcountrysidevents Relax in the surroundings of this historic site for a picnic and games, followed by a brief guided walk. There may be an opportunity for a behind the scenes look at the private grounds of Popes Manor, home to poet Alexander Pope. Bring a picnic and seating. 1-3pm. Please book on 01344 354 400.

8 Sept – HERITAGE OPEN DAYS at Greys Court, Nr Henley, RG9 4PG, 01491 628 529 and Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, RG8 9NR, 0118 984 3040, www.nationaltrust.co.uk Free entry for all. Greys Court grounds open from 11am-5pm, Basildon Park from 10am-5pm, house tours available.

8 Sept – THE HENLEY SHOW at Greenlands Farm, Hambleden, Henley, RG9 3AS, www.thehenleyshow.com Falconry display, sheep show, a parade of machinery through the ages, show jumping, dog show, children’s entertainment, heavy horses, refreshments, Food and Farming marquee, trade stands, crafts and more. Buy discounted tickets online: adults £10, child £5, family £25.

Come and have some fun!

Badminton, Ballet, Gymnastics, Cheerleading, Soccer Dribblers, Squash, Swimming, Lifeguard Courses and so much more...

On-site Crèche available and Time Out Café serving fresh snacks, lunches and treats every day.

Bracknell Leisure Centre

Bagshot Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 9SE

Tel: 01344 454203 www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

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Thames Valley West

Real London show, last years’ overall winner enjoying his trophy!

8 Sept – THE REAL LONDON SHOW at Bracknell Leisure Centre, Bagshot Rd, RG12 9SE Is your Hamster a winner? Enter your guinea pigs, chinchillas, mice or hamsters into a competition. Come and shop around to find the most suitable pet

for your children. 8am- 8pm. To enter competitions please contact iancinderby@ymail.com or see www.reallondonshow.co.uk 8 Sept – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Main Sports Hall, Nuffield Fitness & Wellbeing Centre, The Racecourse, Newbury RG14 7PN, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Quality preloved and new items for babies and under 6s. 2pm-4pm. Adults £1 entry.

8-9 Sept – DAYS OUT WITH THOMAS at Bucks Railway Centre, 01296 655 720, www.bucksrailcentre.org Ride behind Thomas under the watchful eye of Sir Topham Hatt. Magic and Punch ‘n’ Judy shows, Thomas DVD theatre and miniature railway. Adults £15 (£13 in advance), child £11 (£9), under 2s free.

8-9 Sept – FAMILY TOURS at The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Rd, Reading, RG1 5EX, 0118 378 8660, www.reading.ac.uk/merl Fun interactive 30 minute tours of the museum with stories about what it was once like to live and work in the countryside. For families with children of all ages, 2.30pm, free but please book.

9 Sept - BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at St Crispins School,

London Rd, Wokingham, RG40 1SS, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk See 8 Sept entry above. 2-4 pm.

Celebrate the BFG’s birthday

Image copyright Quentin Blake

September Every Friday during term time – TODDLER TIME at The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Rd, Reading, RG1 5EX, 0118 378 8660, www.reading.ac.uk/merl Rhymes, songs or craft activities based on objects in the museum collection or garden. 10-11am & 1-2pm. For families with children aged 2-4yrs. £2, drop in.

9 Sept – ROALD DAHL DAY CELEBRATIONS at The Roald Dahl

Museum and Story Centre, Great Missenden, Bucks, 01494 892 192, www.roalddahlmuseum.org A double celebration of the author’s birthday and the 30th anniversary of The BFG, one of his most popular books and characters. Activities include storytelling, behind-the-scenes tours, magic and face-painting. There’ll also be a rare opportunity to visit the author’s garden, a short walk away. See www.roalddahlday. info for details of other Roald Dahl Day events and activities around the country throughout September.

9 Sept – BINFIELD CHURCH FETE at St Mark’s Church, Popeswood Rd, Binfield, RG42 4AN Open-air service at 11.30am followed by a fete from 12.15-3pm. Entertainment and fun for all the family with bouncy slide, animals, BBQ, Pimms tent, face painting, huge raffle and many stalls and attractions.

9 Sept – PANGBOURNE 10K RACE at Pangbourne Primary School, www.pangbourne10k.org.uk 10k multi-terrain race at 10.30am through the beautiful woods and countryside overlooking Pangbourne. Suitable for beginners and 15+yrs. Entry £15 (£14 in advance). Plus a fete with children’s fun races, a climbing wall, bouncy castle, BBQ and bar plus lots more.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

What’s On Annual celebration of harvest produce taking place in the restored apple orchard and around the grounds. Produce to taste and buy, children’s crafts, advice on pruning, recipe demonstrations, brewing instruction from local ale producers, BBQ, balloon modelling, face painting, music and dancing displays from local Morris Men. 11am-5pm.

Normal admission charges apply.

23 Sept – FAMILY OPEN DAY at Ufton Court, Ufton Nervet, RG7 4HD, www.uftoncourt.co.uk Enjoy a family day out with climbing wall, archery, steam engine, bouncy castle, birds of prey and farm animals. Make apple juice and bird feeders in the orchard. Cream teas and refreshments available, or take a picnic and enjoy the grounds. Free entry and car parking (small charge for house tours and some activities). 11am-4pm.

24-28 Sept – HENLEY LITERARY FESTIVAL at various venues around

MERL family tour guides, 8-9 Sept, 13-14 & 30 Oct

10-15 Sept – RHINO WEEK at Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, Burford, Oxon, OX18 4JP, www. cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Rhino themed activities and talks to highlight the Park’s conservation work with the Tusk Trust. Visit their website for more details.

15-16 Sept – WOKINGHAM ARTS TRAIL around Wokingham, www. wokinghamartstrail.co.uk Discover over 37 artists living and working locally in 16 alternative venues including homes, studios and temporary arts spaces.

Follow the trail to experience paintings, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, printmaking and enjoy the opportunity to talk with artists and to buy direct. 11am-6pm. Map available in libraries or visit website.

15-16 Sept – GALA STEAM EVENT at Didcot Railway Centre, Didcot, 01235 817 200, www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk The gala will feature goods trains, signalling in operation on the branch line, shunting demonstrations, Wickham trolley rides and real ale bar. All available locomotives from the home fleet will be used over the weekend.

15-16 Sept – THE ROYAL COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE SHOW at Newbury Showground, Priors Court Road, Hermitage, Thatcham, 01635 247 155, www.berkshireshow.co.uk Highlights range from a Spitfire flypast to the Sports Zone, and from the Aberdeen Angus National Show to 600 shops and craft stalls.

Plus sheep shearing, a grand livestock parade, a Hobbies tent, cooking demonstrations and tastings, horticulture, live music, show jumping and much more. Tickets £14 in advance (£18 on gate), conc. £12 (£14), child £5 (£7), under 5s free. No dogs.

From 15 Sept at weekends & school holidays – FIRE & LIGHT SHOW at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, 01344 354 400, www. bracknell-forest.gov.uk/lookout Back by popular demand, this show includes demonstrations to fire your imagination. Find out what a candle needs to keep burning, which creatures create their own light and marvel at the tornado of fire. Suitable for 5+yrs, shows cost £1.85 plus normal entrance fee.

16 Sept – PIRATE DAY at the MultiActivity Centre, Dinton Pastures, Hurst, 0118 934 4424, www.wokingham.gov. uk/countryside Go dressed as a pirate ready to take to the waters of Black Swan Lake and enjoy some exciting games and activities. £5 child, £10 adult, 25% off for MAC members.

Henley, 0118 972 4700, www.henleyliteraryfestival.co.uk Meet a wide range of authors and illustrators talking about their work, from Michael Palin and Michael Portillo to Jilly Cooper and John Major. Advance booking required. A special programme of events for children includes the following. At the Kenton Theatre: 25 Sept Meg Rosoff - author of There is No Dog, 10am, £4; 26 Sept Philip Ardagh - Grubtown Tales author, 10.30am, £4; 27 Sept Steve Cole - Astrosaurs, The Slime Squad, 10am, £4.

At D:two: 29 Sept Dear Zoo - inspired by Rod Campbell’s classic book, go along and roar like a lion, hop like a frog and trumpet like an elephant, for 3+yrs and parents, 10am & 11.15am, £3 child, £4 adult. At Henley Library: 29 Sept Reading for Children - Daniel Hahn offers advice on what books would best suit your child, 1.30pm, £4.

29 Sept – FAMILY NATURE DAY in McIlroy Park, Tilehurst, Reading, 0118 950 2764, www.nature-nurture.co.uk Activities include den building, nature art and drama and conservation for beginners, 10.30am-2pm. Dress up warm and bring a picnic. Meet at Norcot Y&C Centre car park, RG30 6UB. Organised by Nature Nurture CIC and Norcot Early Years Centre.

Free but please get in touch so they know you are coming.

30 Sept – CAR BOOT SALE at Memorial Hall Fields, Memorial Ave, Shiplake, RG9 4DW A charity car boot sale organised by Shiplake Village Nursery with a bouncy castle, face painting and a play park.

For more information visit www.shiplakevillagenursery.co.uk or contact Nicole on 07753 619 970.

October 6-7 Oct – DAYS OUT WITH THOMAS at Didcot Railway Centre, Didcot, 01235 817 200, www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk Ride behind Thomas and Duck, meet the Fat Controller, watch Diesel try to sort out the Troublesome Trucks and enjoy magic shows, Punch and Judy, circus workshops and more. Tickets £10, children £8.50, Under 2s free.

7 Oct - Annual Ploughing Match with Country market

22 Sept – SPENCERS WOOD CARNIVAL at Recreation Ground,

at Bishopland, Dunsden, www.thehenleyshow.com Ploughing classes for vintage, classic vintage tractors and track vehicles and for heavy horses. Also gun dog display, ferret racing, trailer rides, trade and craft stands, plus bar and refreshments. Tickets and details online.

Clares Green Rd, Spencers Wood, www.spencerswoodcarnival.co.uk Family fun including funfair, face painting, craft fair, hands-on art, circus skills, stalls, dog show, live music and more. 12noon-9pm.

22 Sept - BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at The Barn, Purley, RG8 8DR, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Quality preloved and new goods for sale.

2pm-4pm. Adults £1 entry.

22 Sept - BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Main Sports Hall, Bracknell Leisure Centre, Bagshot Road, Bracknell, RG12 9SE, www. babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk See entry above. 2-4 pm.

22-23 Sept – THE BIG HARVEST WEEKEND at Greys Court, Rotherfield Peppard, RG9 4PG, 01491 628 529, www.nationaltrust.org.uk

29 Sept – WALKING & OUTDOORS FESTIVAL at Frost Folly, Warfield, 01344 354 441, www.bracknell-forest. gov.uk/parksandcountrysidevents Enjoy the outdoors on foot, cycle, wheelchair and horseback. Celebrate the peaceful paths and public rights of way and discover stunning countryside with a fantastic range of guided routes. Call or visit website for a full programme of events.

Big Harvest at Greys Court, 22-23 Sept

7 Oct – BLITZ DAY at the REME Museum of Technology, Arborfield, RG2 9NJ, 0118 976 3375, www.rememuseum.org.uk Go back in time and capture the spirit of the ‘Blitz’ in World War Two. Join the On Parade 1940’s re-enactment group for Make do and Mend, meet The Home Guard, Monty & The Spiv, Bomb Disposal, experience a manned RAF Plotting Table and much more. Free with admission. Drop in 11am-3.30pm.

Toddler time at MERL

Fridays, 10-11am & 1-2pm, RBC term time

Steamdays

• Drop-in • £2 per child • Families with children up to 4 yrs

Saturday/Sunday 15/16 September ‘All in a day’s work’ steam gala Saturday/Sunday 6/7 October Day Out With Thomas See & ride behind the famous blue engine

Enjoy stories, songs and craft activities inspired by the countryside.

Entrance at Didcot Parkway rail station.

Signed from M4 (junc 13) & A34

Contact us

For details, call 0118 378 8660, email merlevents@reading.ac.uk or visit

www.reading.ac.uk/merl

Recreating the golden age of the Great Western Railway Registered Charity No 272616

Discover Book your more Xmas things Pantomime to do - now www.familiestvw.co.uk/whatson – www.familiestvw.co.uk/pantomimes

Thames Valley West

PAGE 17

What’s On Come and share the magic...

NEW CAFÉ OPENING SPRING 2012 Rides to feed the deer Adventure Playground Wild Walk & Nature Trail Den building “Be A Farmer” Days Large Picnic Area Feed the Farm Animals PLUS GREAT INDOOR PLAY FOR RAINY DAYS

After school club • Sports classes • Baby & toddler activities

NOW OPEN www.kids-n-action.com 680 Eskdale Road, Winnersh Triangle, Berkshire, RG41 5TS Tel: 0845 838 4686

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Open – Daily 9.30am – 6pm

AT R FA BUC KLEBURY

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Princess – Pirates – Superhero – Under the Sea – Football – I’m Fabulous Giant softplay including 5.50m high drop slides • Imaginative role play FREE Video games room • Sports arena • Café

AND B

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Laser Tag parties and 8 Themed party rooms including: Glow in The Dark - the only room in the UK!

BS

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Berkshire’s NEWEST & BIGGEST Indoor Play & Party Centre for kids 0-12

Free entr second c y for hild whe n you quo te FM

PRICES H FROM 2 ELD 011

Family Ticket £26.50 Adults £7.95 Children & OAPs £6.95 Disabled with 1 helper £5.25 each Under 2s FREE

*Pay for 1 child and 2nd child gets in free only with this voucher.

Offer valid until 2/11/2012. Visit our website

www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk Tel: 0118 971 4002 Bucklebury Farm Park is open daily from 10am to 6pm and is situated 31/2 miles from the A4 between Reading and Newbury.

Saturday 3rd NOVEMBEr

FAMILY FUN

with a day full Of SupErB JuMpS raciNg

LOOK TO THE SKIES

fOr a firEwOrkS SpEctacular aftEr raciNg

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ENtErtaiNMENt thrOughOut thE day Tickets from £18 per person Fine dining available 0844 346 3000 ascot.co.uk 03800299_Fireworks_Night_Family_Magazine_Ad_130x180mm_L_v2.indd 1

PAGE 18

Thames Valley West

06/08/2012 16:58 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

What’s On 13 Oct – AUTUMN ORCHARD DAY at The Vyne, Vyne Rd, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL, 01256 883 858, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/vyne Sample the delights of some of our oldest apple varieties and receive top tips on apple identification, growing, propagation, and pruning; meet The Vyne’s friendly hens; and inspect the buzzing bee hive. Plus local Morris dancers, lunches supplied by The Vyne’s hog roast, and plenty of opportunities to sample and buy local crafts and produce. 11am-5pm, normal admission charge.

27-28 Oct – SPOOKY HALLOWEEN TRAINS at Cholsey & Wallingford

Railway, 01491 835 067, www.cholsey-wallingford-railway.com Watch out for ghosts, rattling bones and spiders, look out for the spooky characters along both sides of the line to Cholsey and back and beware of the Witch distributing special Halloween Spooky Bags on the train to all under 8s. No need to book.

27-28 & 31 Oct – HALF TERM STEAMDAYS at Didcot Railway Centre,

Didcot, OX11 7NJ, 01235 817 200, www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk As well as the usual attractions you can ride on steam trains this half term.

10.30am-3.30pm.

13 Oct – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Main Sports Hall, Nuffield Fitness & Wellbeing Centre, Newbury Racecourse, RG14 7PN, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Quality preloved and new items for babies and under 6s. 2pm-4pm. Adults £1 entry.

13-14 Oct – CARTER’S STEAM FAIR at Prospect Park, Reading, www.carterssteamfair.co.uk Vintage traditional funfair for all ages.

Saturday 12-10.30pm, Sunday 12-9pm.

Fireworks on Saturday night.

13-14 Oct – FAMILY TOURS at The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Rd, Reading, RG1 5EX, 0118 378 8660, www.reading.ac.uk/merl Fun interactive 30 minute tours of the museum with stories about what it was once like to live and work in the countryside. For families with children of all ages, 2.30pm, free but please book.

17-20 Oct – NEWBURY MICHAELMAS FAIR at Northcroft Park, Newbury This annual event runs from Wednesday

Fungi Foray at the Vyne, 21 Oct

until Saturday with a gigantic firework display at 9pm on Friday 19th.

20 Oct – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Main Sports Hall, Bulmershe Leisure Centre, Woodlands Ave, Woodley RG5 3EU, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Quality preloved and new items for babies and under 6s. 2-4 pm.

21 Oct – FUNGI FORAY through Morgaston Woods on The Vyne estate, Vyne Rd, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL, 01256 883 858, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/vyne Take a guided foray through the woods and learn more about the art of identification, and the folklore that surrounds fungi.

11am–1pm, free event, please book.

Over Half Term 24 Oct-4 Nov – HALF TERM ACTIVITIES at Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, nr Pangbourne, RG8 9NR, 0118 984 3040, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/basildonpark To celebrate the Great British Walk, why not enjoy a self-guided stomp around Basildon Park’s beautiful parkland, on the lookout for all the objects listed on the new Bingo Trail. At this time of year the parkland is fringed with gorgeous autumn colour from surrounding woodland.

27 Oct-4 Nov Fang-tastic Halloween - brave young visitors can follow the Halloween trail around the garden and receive a reward at the end, £2 per trail.

31 Oct Creepy Crafts - workshop and storytelling. 10am–5pm. Normal admission charges apply for all events.

26 & 31 Oct – SPOOKY PADDLE at the Multi-Activity Centre, Dinton Pastures, Hurst, 0118 934 4424, www.wokingham.gov.uk/mac Have you ever wondered what really happens on the lake at night? Go along and experience spooky stories on the creepy black waters of Black Swan lake.

7-9pm, must book. Adults £12, child £6, 25% off for MAC members.

26 Oct-5 Nov – GIANT PUMPKIN HUNT at Bucklebury Farm Park, between Reading and Newbury, 0118 971 4002, www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk Take a walk on the wild side through the new spooky woodland maze.

Carve a pumpkin at Odds Farm Park, 20-21 Oct & 27 Oct-4 Nov

A wide range of Bouncy Castles, Slides, Soft Play, Go Karts and Sumo Suits for hire 364 days a year! For Indoor and Outdoor use.

27 Oct - BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at St Crispins School, London Rd, Wokingham, RG40 1SS, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk See 8 Sept entry above. 2-4 pm.

27-31 Oct – HALLOWEEN ACTIVITIES at Wellington Country Park, Riseley, 0118 932 6444, www.wellingtoncountry-park.co.uk 27–28 Oct Slightly Spooky Children’s Shows – perfect for a ‘slightly spooky’ weekend. 29–31 Oct Haunted Castle Puppet Show - get in to the spirit of Halloween with this puppet show. 31 Oct Halloween - spooky fun with apple dunking, mummy wrap and a witches’ treasure hunt. Children in full fancy dress get in free.

27 Oct–2 Nov – HOWL-O-WEEN at Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, Burford, Oxon, OX18 4JP, www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk A Howling week of spooky fun with Spooky animal talks, pumpkins around the Park and not forgetting a ride on train into the haunted tunnel whoooooo! Plus competitions and facepainting. Under 3s are free. Visit their website for more details.

27 Oct-4 Nov – HALLOWEEN FAMILY FUN at Odds Farm Park, near

Wooburn Common, 01628 520 188, www.oddsfarm.co.uk Daily during Half Term children can Carve a Pumpkin (small extra charge), follow the Witches’ Trail and watch Spooky Magic Shows. Combined with the Giant Indoor Playbarn and plenty of furry friends to meet, you’ll be spoilt for choice. For more information, including special Autumn events and prices call or visit website.

Carving also on 20 & 21 Oct. • Win Odds Farm tickets, see page 22 27 Oct-4 Nov - SCARECROW TRAIL in Mortimer, Reading, www.mortimervillage.org.uk Come and find the scarecrows all around the village. Trail maps £1 from local outlets in Mortimer, check web site for details. £50 prize for winner of the Trail competition.

Halloween Family Fun Daily during Half Term at Odds Farm children can Carve a Pumpkin*, follow the Witches Trail and watch Spooky Magic Shows!

NEW Combined with the Giant Indoor Spook Playbarn and plenty of furry friends Magicy to meet, you’ll be spoilt for choice!

Show s!

OPEN DAILY FROM 10AM – 5.30PM TEA ROOM & FREE PARKING

T:01628 520188

NR. BEACONSFIELD HP10 0LX (M40, J2)

www.bigonbouncing.co.uk 01628 410736/07926 751243

* Small charge to cover the cost of the pumpkin.

Carving also open 20 & 21 Oct.

Discover Book your more Xmas things Pantomime to do -OFP-AM-12-053 now www.familiestvw.co.uk/whatson – www.familiestvw.co.uk/pantomimes 118x70 FM.indd 1

PAGE 19 Thames Valley West 26/07/2012 08:24

What’s On

We take great care in compiling these listings but always check details before setting out.

Spooktacular - take part in the spooky trail and claim your delicious prize. Have fun making creepy crafts and come dressed in your scariest outfit. £2 per child, plus normal admission.

28 Oct - HALLOWEEN HULLABALOO in Newbury Market Place, 01635 52273, www.cornexchangenew.com The Market Place will be transformed into a Halloween extravaganza that all the family will enjoy. There are loads of activities to take part in, fiendishly tasty food points, face-painting and lots of free live entertainment for all. 4-9pm.

URE activities, 1 Nov

27 Oct-4 Nov – HALF TERM & HALLOWEEN ACTIVITIES at Museum

of Rural Life, Redlands Rd, Reading, 0118 378 8660, www.reading.ac.uk/merl 27 Oct-4 Nov Halloween Pumpkin Trail - follow the trail and find the scary pumpkins hiding in the MERL museum and garden, prizes for everyone, £2 per child, drop in. 30 Oct Family Tours - fun, interactive tours of the museum for all the family, free, drop in at 11am & 2pm. 30 Oct Funky French Knitting - make your own French knitting loom and then make a woolly egg cosy, family drop in between 10am-12.30pm & 1.30-4pm, £2 per child, 5+yrs. 31 Oct Pop-Up Cart - join illustrator Nick Denchfield for a loud, fun and messy workshop and create a pop up cart to take home, family drop in between 10–11am, 11.30am-12.30pm, 1.30-2.30pm & 3–4pm, £3 per child, 6+yrs. 1 Nov Cotton reel tractors – using ordinary household items, make a little ‘tractor’ which will creep about on its own and climb obstacles, family drop in, 10am-12.30pm & 1.30-4pm, £2, 5+yrs. 2 Nov Dancing dollies & silly snakes – use colourful cotton reels, beads and elastic to make a dancing doll or a silly snake, family drop in, 10am-12.30pm & 1.30-4pm, £2, 2+yrs.

27 Oct-2 Nov – HALF TERM EVENTS at Cliveden, Nr Taplow, Maidenhead, 0844 249 1895, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden 27 Oct Pumpkin Party – with pumpkin crafts. Come dressed up, take part in the trail and get a treat. Bring your pumpkin - the biggest one wins a prize. £2 per child, plus normal admission. 29, 31 Oct & 2 Nov Family Woodland Fun - 3km guided walk, aimed at 6-12 yrs, which takes families through the woods giving them activities to complete along the way including a ‘mini-beast’ hunt and agility trail. 11am–1pm, free with normal admission charge. 31 Oct Halloween

28 Oct – HALLOWEEN SPOOKS SPECIAL at Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway, 01844 353 535, www.chinnorrailway.co.uk Spooky Halloween rides. Children in Halloween costume will receive a present.

29 Oct–2 Nov – HALF TERM ACTIVITIES at Reading Museum, Town Hall, Reading, RG1 1QH, 0118 937 3400, www.readingmuseum.org.uk Activity cart during the holidays with a range of art and craft activities, free drop in. Also 29 Oct The Big Draw - drawing activities for the whole family. Fun for all ages with materials provided and no experience necessary. Free drop in event from 10am-3.30pm. 30 Oct Halloween Monsters - create your own squashy balloon monster for families with children 5+yrs, 1-hour sessions at 10am, 11.15am, 1pm & 2.15pm, £3, pay on the day, drop in. 31 Oct Wizards’ and Witches’ Hats get creative and make a spooky, sparkling hat for families, half-hour drop in sessions between 10am-12noon & 1-3pm, 50p.

31 Oct Tales for Tots - story-time for the under 5s using objects from the museum collection, 10.30–11.30am, free drop in every Wednesday throughout the year.

1 Nov Mysterious Mummies - model a mummy complete with case and sarcophagus, for 7+yrs, 2-hour sessions at 10am & 1pm, £7, booking essential.

1 Nov Victorian Schoolroom Experience - meet a Victorian schoolteacher and re-learn the ‘3Rs’. A 45-minute experience for adults and +5yrs in a unique Victorian classroom, 11.30am, 1.15pm & 2.30pm, £1 per person, drop in, limited spaces. NB drop-in events are very popular so arrive early.

29 Oct-3 Nov – HALLOWEEN CRAFTS at California Country Park,

Finchampstead, 0118 973 5519 Pop into the Café at California Country Park for a selection of spooky activities.

10am-4pm. Children must be supervised. £2.50 per child. No need to book.

30 Oct – ARABIAN ADVENTURE DAY at The Watermill Theatre Bagnor, Newbury RG20 8AE, 01635 46044, www.watermill.org.uk Fun activities themed around the Watermill’s Christmas Show, Arabian Nights. Follow a trail of Aladdin’s lamps to find the edible treasure.

Make paper lanterns and add characters to the magic map in the ‘art room’. Listen to tales from Arabian Nights in the Theatre, play drama games and dress-up in costumes from past shows. 10-11.30am & 11.30am-1pm.

Tickets £5 for children, adults £1.

30 Oct – FUNGAL FORAY at Lily Hill Park, Bracknell, RG12 2RX, 01344 354 441, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ parksevents Experience the amazing world of fungi this autumn on a walk with an expert from the Thames Valley Fungi Group. Suitable for all, 2–4pm, £2, please book on 01344 354 400.

30 Oct–2 Nov - HALF TERM FUN at River and Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley RG9 1BF, 01491 415 600, www.rrm.co.uk 30 Oct Twit Twoo - make a cosy felt cushion to cuddle up to as you listen to owls and learn about their habits, for 4-7yrs, 10.30am–12.30pm, £8.50, please book. 31 Oct The Big Bug Experience - featuring at least 10 different bug species from around the world including: scorpions, tarantula, giant cockroaches and more, drop in 10.30am–4pm, free with admission. 1 Nov The Fascinating World of Weather learn to become a weather expert by doing weather experiments, making weather instruments, playing weather games, learning weather folklore and recognising different types of clouds, for 7-11yrs, 10.30am–12.30pm, £8.50, book. 2 Nov Big Draw Poster - work together as a family to design your own giant poster to celebrate a special occasion. All materials provided, drop in 10.30am–4pm, free with admission.

31 Oct – WILD ONES: FLYING BATS & BOUNCING SPIDERS at Sandhurst Memorial Park, Yorktown Rd, GU47 9BJ, 01344 354 441, www.bracknellforest.gov.uk/parksevents Create your own bat kite for Halloween and give it an outdoor test flight. Make a big, bouncy spider from recycled materials to spook your friends. 10am–12noon. £3.50 for materials. Please book on 01344 354 400.

31 Oct – BATTY ABOUT SPOOKS at Shaw House, Church Rd, Newbury, RG14 2DR, 01635 279279, www. shawhouse.org.uk Make your own Halloween decorations including bouncing bats and spinning spiders. Find out the history of Halloween and how it was celebrated in the past.

10am-3.30pm.

31 Oct- 2 Nov – BIRTHDAY BONANZA at REME Museum of Technology, Arborfield, RG2 9NJ, 0118 976 3375, www.rememuseum.org.uk It’s REME’s 70th birthday! Help them to celebrate it with fun and games. Suitable for accompanied children 5-12 yrs. Free with admission. Drop in, 11am-3.30pm.

1 Nov – FABRICATION: MAKING THINGS UP WITH PUPPETS at various Wokingham Libraries, www.wokingham.gov.uk/libraries Pottytree Puppets will be running a Fabrication workshop for families with children aged 4-11yrs to encourage storytelling through puppet making. £3.50 per child, please book. Woodley Library (0118 969 0304) 10.30-11.30am, Lower Earley Library (0118 931 2150) 12.451.45pm and Wokingham Library (0118 978 1368) 2.30-3.30pm.

1 Nov – IT’S SHOW TIME, GREEK STYLE! at URE Museum of Greek Archaeology, University of Reading, 0118 378 6990, www.reading.ac.uk/ure Discover the Greek love for theatre and tell the stories of some of the greatest tragedies of all times. Make your own tragic mask and become an actor staging your favourite fairy tales, Greek style. 2-4pm. For accompanied children 6+yrs, £3 per child, please book.

1 Nov – CHILDREN’S CHESS TOURNAMENT at Woodley Library, 0118 969 0304, www.wokingham.gov.uk/libraries For children aged 7-12 yrs. 3-5pm. Please book a place.

2 Nov – AUTUMN CRAFTS at Battle Library, 420 Oxford Rd, Reading, 0118 901 5100 A morning of collecting, 10am–12noon, in Prospect Park (meet beside the Pavilion car park) followed by an afternoon of making, 2–4pm, at Battle Library. Up to 20 places available please book. Children must be accompanied.

3 Nov - BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at The Barn, Purley, RG8 8DR, www. babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk See 22 Sept entry. 2-4 pm.

3-4 Nov - TRUNKWELL’S CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR & FOOD MARKET at Trunkwell House, Beech Hill, Reading, 0118 988 3754, www.trunkwell.com Not forgetting Santa and his elves too!

Returning due to popular demand for the fourth year running, see Trunkwell’s marquees turned into a dazzling festival fair filled with lots of Christmas ideas, crafts and the amazing Food Market.

10am-4pm.

Set in fantastic countryside location

Jubilee Jets is open every school holiday from 8:00 – 18:00 for children aged 5 to 11 years. Full and half day sessions available. Supervised by a fun team of qualified staff Jubilee Jets is a great out-door adventure holiday club where the best childhood memories are made.

For further information please contact Jubilee Jets on:

0118 9701 600 www.jubileejets.co.uk

Paddock View, Rectory Rd, Padworth Common, Berks, RG7 4JD

PAGE 20

Thames Valley West

• Feeding lambs • Biking in the woods • Cooking • Circus workshops • Henna tattoos • Trampolining • Games and races • Quad bikes • Or just hangin out with friends School Holiday Fun! Ofsted registered

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

What’s On Firework Displays Visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/fireworks for lots more firework events.

27 Oct – SUE RYDER FIREWORKS & HALLOWEEN NIGHT at Sue Ryder Care Home, Nettlebed, RG9 5DE, www.henleybridge-rotary.org.uk/ fireworks.html Organised by the Rotary Club of Henley Bridge and held in the grounds of the Sue Ryder Care Home at Nettlebed. Now in its 18th year. Professional firework display, bonfire, Halloween fancy dress parade, numerous stalls, pig roast, soup, bangers, burgers, mulled wine, bar. Gates open at 5pm with fireworks at 7.15pm. Vehicle and all occupants £15, walking adults £5, child 5-16 yrs £2.

27-28 Oct & 2-4 Nov – BRICK OR

TREAT FIREWORK SPECTACULAR

at Legoland, Windsor, 0871 2222 001, www.legoland.co.uk A variety of Halloween themed activities with spectacular fireworks displays on selected nights. See website for further details.

• Visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/offers for a ‘child goes free’ voucher.

3 Nov – FIREWORK SPECTACULAR FAMILY DAY at Ascot Race Course,

3 Nov – SPECTACULAR FIREWORKS DISPLAY at Newbury Racecourse, www.newburylions.org.uk The annual Lions Club display in aid of local charities with gates open at 5.30pm. There will be some stirring military music to augment the display.

Fun Fair, BBQ and Bar plus music from Heart FM. 3 Nov - WOODLEY & EARLEY

LIONS CLUB FIREWORKS DISPLAY in the field behind Laurel Park, Rushey Way, Lower Earley, www. lionsofwoodleyandearley.org.uk/ events.html Charity fireworks display organised by Woodley & Earley Lions Club. Enjoy the display and atmosphere whilst raising funds for local charities. A real family event. No personal fireworks or alcohol please. Gates open at 6pm, display starts at 7pm.

4 Nov – FIREWORKS DISPLAY at Blue Mountain Golf & Conference Centre, Blue Mountain, Wood Lane, Binfield, Bracknell, RG42 4EX, 01344 312504, www.bluemountaingolf.co.uk From 5pm. Discounts are offered on preordered tickets. The display itself will be organised by Star Fireworks who do the fireworks for the Big Brother TV show, there will also be a bonfire, live band & fun fair for children & adults.

Trunkwell House Christmas Gift Fair & Food Market

.......not forgetting Santa too!!

Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th November 10.00am – 4.00pm • Now in its fourth year • Over 80 exhibitors • Food Market to tickle your taste buds • Refreshments served all day • Free parking with disabled access

Childrens Christmas Experience Voucher £6 per child – includes entry, meet Santa and his Elfs also receive a present from the man himself and cookie decorating (1 per child)

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Just a few miles from the M4, J11 please follow the signs Trunkwell Mansion House, Beech Hill, Reading, Berkshire RG7 2AT Telephone: 0118 988 3754 info@trunkwell.com www.trunkwell.com

We provide a quality indoor market for parents to buy and sell excellent quality nearly new and new baby & kids items from birth to six years! Great brands selling at bargain prices! Lots of toys, books, clothes, buggies, high chairs and much, much more on offer...

Our markets are currently located in Newbury, Bracknell, Woodley, Spencers Wood, Purley on Thames, Reading, Wokingham and across the Thames Valley. For our market dates and locations see the ‘What’s On’ section of the magazine or visit us at:

www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk • 07881 641614

National Trust

0844 346 3000, www.ascot.co.uk Free fairground rides throughout the day and some top class racing followed by a fabulous firework display at 6.45pm.

Gates open 10.45am, first race 1.50pm, last admission 4pm. On the day tickets from £18, under 18s free, discounts for groups and advance tickets.

• Visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/offers to get £5 off per ticket.

3 Nov – FIREWORKS FIESTA at Wellington Country Park, Riseley, www.wellington-country-park.co.uk Organised by the Loddon Lions in aid of charity. More details on www. loddonvalleylions.org

Nearly New Sales 14 Sept – WOODCOTE WINDMILL SALE at Woodcote Village Hall, RG8 0QY 8am-2pm. To sell call 01491 681 449 or penniall@globalnet.co.uk 15 Sept – READING & DISTRICT

TWINS CLUB NEARLY NEW SALE

at Southcote Community Centre, Coronation Square, Reading 2-4pm. Lots of clothes, toys and equipment for sale - you don’t have to have twins to come along!

22 Sept – NEWBURY & DISTRICT NCT NEARLY NEW SALE at Kennet School, Stoney Lane, Thatcham, RG19 4LL 11.15am-12.30pm (NCT members from 11am). Call 0844 243 6215.for more details.

6 Oct – HENLEY NCT NEARLY NEW SALE at Christ Church Centre, Reading Rd, Henley, RG9 1AG 10.30am-12noon (10.15am with NCT card). £1 entry. 0844 243 6160 for details.

6 Oct – BINFIELD TODDLER GROUP’S NEARLY NEW SALE at Binfield CE Primary School, Benetfeld Rd 2.30-4pm. For a huge range of toys, children’s clothes, maternity wear and equipment.

Admission £1, cash purchases only.

14 Oct – BRACKNELL NCT NEARLY NEW SALE at The Hilton Hotel, Bagshot Rd, Bracknell, RG12 0QJ 11.45am-1.15pm (11.30am with NCT card). £1 entry. Details on 0844 243 6058 or email bracknellnctnearlynewsale@ hotmail.co.uk

Find a local Firework display at www.familiestvw.co.uk/fireworks

Thames Valley West

PAGE 21

Great Offers from

Corn Exchange and Hiss & Boo present the nation’s favourite pantomime, Cinderella. Prepare yourself for an action-packed tale full of songs, silliness and magic aplenty. From 30 Nov ‘12 until 6 Jan ’13 help Cinderella find her happy-everafter. You have the chance to win a family ticket (4 tickets) and be part of the fun this festive season.

If you are not the lucky winner and would like to book tickets visit www.cornexchangenew.com or call 0845 5218 218.

To enter just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/competitions today. Closing date November 9.

Berkshire ARTs Academy, BARTA, is a leading Theatre & Performing Arts Academy. One lucky child (age 7+) will win a term of free lessons (worth £189) from BARTA‘s professional dance, drama and singing teachers. In a new, fun, exciting and vibrant environment students will improve their skills in the 3 key performing areas alongside BARTA students who perform professionally in TV, Film, West End and UK Touring productions.

If you would like to find out more visit www.berkshireartsacademy.com To enter just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/competitions today.

Closing date October 12.

WIN Tickets to enjoy the Halloween fun

We have 4 entry tickets for 2 adults and 2 children to enjoy the Halloween Family Fun at Odds Farm Park for you to win. There’s always so much to do at Odds Farm Park and from 27 Oct–4 Nov you can carve a Pumpkin*, follow the Witches‘ Trail and, NEW for 2012, watch Spooky Magic Shows! Carving will also be available on 20-21 Oct. For more information call 01628 520 188 or visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk To enter just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/competitions today. Closing date October 12. *Small charge is made to cover the cost of the pumpkin

ATTACH-A-TAG

WIN a Back-to-School Labelling Kit

on ti ti pe m Co

WIN Drama, Dance and Singing Lessons

on ti ti pe m Co

BERKSHIRE ARTS ACADEMY

ODDS FARM PARK

on ti ti pe m Co

WIN Tickets to see Cinderella

on ti ti pe m Co

CORN EXCHANGE NEWBURY

Fed up with sewing on labels?

Check out the new labelling system from Attach-A-Tag, which promises to label your kids’ clothes quickly and easily without the use of a needle or iron.

Your child’s name is permanently etched onto reuseable button tags and once attached, they’re there until you chose to remove them (with the integral removal tool). We have a pack to give away to one lucky reader, including a dolphin and a voucher for the recipient to order their buttons online.

If you are not the lucky winner and would like to find out more visit www.attachatag.com To enter just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/competitions today.

Closing date October 12.

Offer valid for new customers only.

Jo Jingles the UK's leading music and movement group for pre- school children is offering readers the opportunity to try the Jo Jingles experience through a special no commitment introductory offer of 3 classes for £10. Special offer for babies from 3-6mths. Just quote FAMILIES. Classes held in Henley, Twyford, Windsor, Maidenhead, Windsor and Burnham.

For more information call Andreas on 07590 434016 email jojingleswam@btinternet.com or visit www.jojingles.com/windsor

LEGOLAND WINDSOR RESORT

Child Goes FREE

er ad er Re Off

Three classes for £10

er ad er Re Off

JO JINGLES

There’s still time enjoy the new LEGO® Star Wars™ Miniland experience at the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort. Until 5 November a child goes free with a full paying adult. Just download your voucher from www.familiestvw.co.uk/offers (conditions apply).

For more information about LEGOLAND visit www.legoland.co.uk

Offer valid for new customers only and subject to availability.

PAGE 22

Thames Valley West

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Family Fun

Happy Halloween Haunted House You don’t have to spend a fortune to create a spooky atmosphere. But don’t make it too scary for very young or sensitive children. If time is short, you’ll find plenty of cheap decorations in your nearest Pound shop or supermarket.

Keep the lights low or use red or green lightbulbs to create an eerie glow. Get the children cutting black card silhouettes to stick on the windows or make our spooky spiders, pictured, details are online at www.familiestvw. co.uk/spookyspiders Creepy soundtrack. Make your own tape of spooky sounds to play - sinister laughter, a dog howling and doors creaking.

Carve a pumpkin lantern. Alternatively light the path to your front door with paper bags filled with a little sand, for ballast, and a tea light.

Cheap and surprisingly effective in the dark.

Freaky Food Start with a Witches’ Blood Cocktail. Just mix cranberry juice, sparkling water and blackcurrant squash in a jug.

A bit of imagination can turn simple food into a devilish delight. Make Monster Eyes by

cutting boiled eggs in half, adding a raisin for the pupil and using a cocktail stick to trace ketchup ‘veins’.

Witches’ Fingers can be made from chicken or fish goujons with an almond flake for the finger nail, or Bat Wings from BBQ chicken wings. Use Halloween biscuit cutters to make shapes for your sandwiches.

Sweet treats. Green jelly mashed up with a fork works well with jelly worms and spiders sprinkled on top. Alternatively, float lychees in jelly before it sets to create a ghoulish eyeball effect. Decorate cakes, see above, or offer toffee apples for a more British approach.

For a spooky table centrepiece. Fill a rubber glove with water dyed with red food colouring and freeze. Cut off the glove and display the iced hand in a bowl of cold water, where it will gradually melt.

Gruesome Games Apple bobbing. Just float apples in a bucket of water and retrieve them using only your teeth. For a twist, then get the children to try and retrieve hidden packets of sweets from a bowl of flour, again using their teeth. The combination of wet faces and flour can be very funny but best played outside!

Doughnut fun. Dangle ring doughnuts on string from your washing line, or a door frame, and have a race to see who can eat theirs first.

Zombie musical statues. Play with themed music such as Thriller, Ghostbusters, and Monster Mash.

Revolting Recipes. Fill bowls with things like baked beans (bat droppings), jelly (monster’s brains), rice pudding (vampire’s blood) or cold

Photo courtesy National Trust

If the idea of ‘trick or treating’ leaves you cold, why not throw a party instead?

Here are a few ideas to make it a real scream for everyone!

spaghetti (giant worms). Blindfold the children and let them guess the contents by smell and feel only.

Pin the tale on the witches’ cat. Or the wart on the witches’ nose!

The Mummy game. Our all-time favourite. Teams compete against the clock to create the best ‘mummy’ by wrapping a team member from head to toe in loo roll. NB Ensure the ‘mummies’ can breathe!

If this all sounds like far too much hard work, why not enjoy a family visit to one of the many local Halloween events instead? Odds Farm Park, Wellington Country Park and Cotswold Wildlife Park, for instance, are all running themed activities and make for a great Half Term day out.

Take a look at our What’s On pages for details.

Happy haunting….

Find more Halloween events at www.familiestvw.co.uk/whatson

Thames Valley West

PAGE 23

Clubs News BERKSHIRE ARTS ACADEMY, BARTA! !

PERFORMING ARTS TRAINING South Hill Park, Bracknell BOOK A FREE TRIAL SESSION

Train with Teachers and Children who work Professionally in Film, TV, West End and UK Touring Theatre Productions.

Acting , Singing and Dance Training!

Call!07825!558757!or!01344!424138! mail@berkshireartsacademy.com22 www.berkshireartsacademy.com2

Over 25 years experience Berkshire Theatre School has been running for over 25 years training youngsters and giving them the chance to perform in professional shows and theatres. Classes and rehearsals run on Saturdays in Earley for 3 to 21 year olds and are taught by highly qualified, skilled teachers and performers within the industry. They include Singing, Street Dance, Acting, and Musical Theatre.

LAMDA exams are also provided twice a year. Many students go on to professional Performing Arts colleges. To find out more call 07785 233 282, email info@berkshiretheatrecompany.co.uk or visit www.berkshiretheatrecompany.co.uk

Scaling the heights Reading Climbing Centre prides itself on delivering the best progressive courses for all the family. For children they run the National Indoor Climbing Achievement Scheme, coaching kids through the safety and technical skills involved in climbing, developing them into competent climbers. These courses run Monday to Sunday during term times. The next term starts on 3 Sept 2012.

For details call 0118 975 6298 or visit www.readingclimbingcentre.co.uk

New venues for Perform Perform classes for 4-8 year olds offer a mix of drama, dance and singing, all designed to encourage the 4 C’s - Confidence, Communication, Coordination and Concentration. Their focus is on helping children develop their social skills whilst having fun.

Classes run locally in Pangbourne, Henley, Reading, Wokingham and Crowthorne and two new venues open this month. Saturday classes will run at St John The Evangelist in Newbury and at Loddon Hall in Twyford.

Principal Lucy Quick says “We are incredibly excited about opening new venues in Thames Valley West from September. It’s a creative area, and we have already found some fantastic local people to lead the workshops.”

All children are invited to a Free Trial Session. Please call 0845 400 4000 or visit www.perform.org.uk

RDT Schools RDT Schools was founded by two former West End performers, whose aim is to provide affordable, highquality performing arts training and to make it available to all. Their classes give students the chance to develop confidence and technique in a friendly, professional atmosphere and their students have appeared in performances including professional tours! RDT have classes for ages 5 and upwards, whether you want to work on your dancing, acting, singing or all three.

As well as their Mini Theatre School (5-7 years) and Saturday Theatre School (8-16 years), RDT also have a new Performance Academy for students wishing to develop their on-stage experience. Led by a fantastic team, workshops have included Puppet making/performances, physical theatre, circus skills, stage combat and more!

Find out more on 0118 966 6774 or by calling www.readtheatreschools.co.uk

PAGE 24

Thames Valley West

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Clubs & Classes

by Sarah El-Hawary

This summer Great Britain played host to the 30th Olympics Games, with 900 athletes representing Team GB and Paralympics GB. For many participants this was their first Olympics and the fruition of a life time dream. Never in the history of British TV has there been more coverage of sport. One could not help but be swept up in the excitement, both kids and adults alike wishing they could be taking part.

So what makes an Olympic athlete? Although several of the Olympic athletes began their sport at a very young age, the key to any child travelling down this road is making sport and exercise part of their daily routine.

Kids who are active will have stronger muscles and bones, have leaner bodies (exercise helps control body fat), be less likely to become overweight, decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol levels and have a better more positive approach to life. In addition, kids who exercise regularly sleep better and are better able to handle physical and emotional challenges. Exercise and sport also play an important part in developing your child’s social skills, self-esteem and positive self-image.

Now let’s look at the amount and type of exercise your child should be taking part in.

3 to 5 year olds: This is a key time to develop gross motor skills, such as throwing,

Fit for Life Photo courtesy Anthony Robling

enrol your child into short courses allowing them to try something new without adding extra pressure into an already busy term schedule.

13 to 18 year olds:

catching, skipping, pedalling, hopping and balancing on one foot.

They should be engaged in at least 60 minutes and up to several hours per day of daily unstructured physical activity. They also recommend that a child should not be sitting for longer than an hour, unless sleeping.

5 to 7 year olds: At this age competitive sports can be introduced and rules can be and should be encouraged. Children also begin to understand team work at this age. They should engage in at least 60 minutes of aerobic activity a day and 3 times a week their 60 minutes

should include muscle and bone strengthening exercises e.g. gymnastics, trampoling, running, football etc.

7 to 12 year olds: 60 minutes of exercise is a required daily minimum. This is when you can help your child really develop a fitness routine with team sports that meet a few times a week as well as activities they can do at home. For many Olympians this is the time that their passion and love of sport was ignited. Try lots of different sports providing variety and exposure to lots of different sporting experiences. School term breaks are a great opportunity to

Again 60 minutes of daily exercise is recommended for this age group. This is the most important time for your child to keep up daily physical activity as the health benefits of exercise play an important role in building selfesteem and positive self-image.

Unfortunately this is the age that there is the biggest drop in daily exercise. In order to prevent this let them chose the exercise they want to do, allowing them some independence and the opportunity to plan group activities with their friends.

Remember there is no better way to improve your children’s potential than ensuring they see exercise as a fundamental part of their day. Events like the Olympics can inspire our children to become great athletes, but more importantly give them a positive outlet for dealing with the daily stresses of life. With active parental encouragement from you and regular exercise by them, your child will shine like an Olympic Athlete!

Sarah is a qualified personal trainer and experienced Pilates instructor, offering a range of classes. These include her popular Let’s go Mummy Buggy Class, which enables new mums to exercise with their little ones, Pilates classes to suit all levels, Pregnancy Pilates and Pelvic Floor courses. To find out more visit www.gofigure.org.uk or call Sarah on 07938 588029.

KEEP ON DANCING!

W ITH S HOES A ND D ANCEWEAR F ROM D ANCIA I NTERNATIONAL

BERKSHIRE’S PREMIER DANCE SHOP! • Ballet, Tap & Jazz Shoes • Ballroom & Latin Shoes

• Dance School Uniforms • Gymnastics Leotards

36-38 PROSPECT STREET, CAVERSHAM, RG 4 8 JL Mon-Fri: 10 am - 5.30 pm Sat: 9.30 am – 5 pm Tel: 0118 9478123 www.dancia.co.uk/reading

Find a sports club for your child at www.familiestvw.co.uk/clubs

Thames Valley West

PAGE 25

New Horizons

29/9/11

Photo © Samuel Borges - Fotolia.com

55x90_multiple3:Layout 2

Russian classes in Reading, Tap in Tilehurst or Hockey in Henley you’ll find them all, plus lots more, in our annual directory of activities for children. We’ve included as many local clubs and classes as we could fit, but you’ll find hundreds more online at www.familiestvw.co.uk/classes 14:22 Page 1 And don’t miss part 2, with activities for the Under 5s, coming up in our next issue.

For classes of pure MADness, Birthday join MAD Academy Parties too!

Call Trish on 0118 977 0050 or trish.nawacki@madacademy.com

Earley, Woodley, Caversham, Burghfield, Purley & Arborfield

Call Gemma on 01344 305688 & 07435754712 or gemma.hinchliffe@madacademy.com Wokingham, Finchampstead, Crowthorne, Sandhurst, Bracknell, Hook, Camberley & Yateley

Call Emma on 0118 979 2695 or emma.lelliott@madacademy.com Maidenhead, Marlow, Henley & Charvil

Movement • rhythms • songs • instruments • games

madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

Arts & crafts Art Attack – Saturday art

courses at Maiden Erlegh school, Earley for year groups 4-9, term time only.

0118 929 6065, www.maidenerleghschool. co.uk/community

Artways Art Club –

Saturday art club for 7-11yrs (morning) and 11-15yrs (afternoon) at River and Rowing Museum, Henley.

01491 415 605, www.rrm.co.uk

Children’s Activity Group

– held some Saturdays, 9.3011.15am, at Crescent Centre, Earley for school-age children with learning disabilities and their siblings. Arts, crafts and other activities. Booking essential. 0118 979 8539, www.wokinghammencap.org

Make&Do – craft shop in Caversham offering contemporary craft workshops for all ages. After school craft and sewing classes for 9+yrs and Saturday classes for 6+yrs, plus one-off sessions in crafts such as decoupage, cupcakes, jewellery making and canvas collages. 0118 327 6717, www.makeanddoworkshops.com South Hill Park – various

arts and crafts courses for all ages in Bracknell. 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk

Athletics Bracknell Athletics Club – has a Junior section for school years 4-6 training at Bracknell athletics track, on a Saturday at 9am and sessions for others from approx. 6.15pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. www.bracknellac.com Newbury Athletic Club – based in Newbury for 9+yrs. www.newburyac.org.uk

PAGE 26

Thames Valley West

Reading Athletic Club – run a Junior Club for school years 4 and 5 on Sunday mornings between March and October at Palmer Park Stadium. 0118 942 7550, www.readingac.com

Basketball Reading Rockets Basketball – run clubs for

8-14yrs at Highdown School, Emmer Green; Piggot School, Wargrave; Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Lower Earley; John Madejski Academy, Whitley; and Meadway Centre, Tilehurst.

0118 926 3040, www. readingrockets.co.uk

Cheerleading (see also entries under Dance)

Reading Superstars –

cheerleading classes and competitive teams training at the Madejski Academy in South Reading. For girls and boys from 4yrs-adult. www.readingsuperstars.org.uk

Dance (see also entries under Drama)

Artemis Studios are

Ofsted registered private performing arts schools. We offer stimulating award winning acting, singing and dancing classes to children and adults, with qualified teachers. Limited full and partial bursaries available for September. Childcare vouchers and credit cards accepted. FREE TRIAL CLASSES! Our main school and private studios are in Bracknell (easily reached by foot, car, train or bus) & open Monday to Saturday from 10am-9pm for classes.

We also have a Saturday only branch in Windsor. www.artemis-studios.co.uk

Climbing Reading Climbing Centre - the Rock-Its Club is

aimed at 7-11yrs and the Hang Time Club is for 11-17yrs. Fun, inclusive sessions with no previous experience required. You can either book a 6 week NICAS course or join a casual session.

Also Little Monkey casual sessions for 5-7yrs.

0118 975 6298, www.readingclimbingcentre.com

Cycling Palmer Park Velo – for 4-18yrs, from complete beginners to national standard, and for all types of cycling incl. track, road and mountain biking. Based at Palmer Park, Reading. www.palmerparkvelo.com

Mo’s Dance and Drama Schools put

‘fun’ centre stage developing confidence and life skills. Mo’s specialise in ballet, tap, street and drama in Woodley, Caversham and Emmer Green. Ages range from 2yrs to adults.

Opportunities to perform at local theatres/events. Exams in RAD, IDTA and LAMDA. Workshops and master classes. Take a look at our school at www. mosdanceanddrama.co.uk Call 0777 618 3689 to book a child’s FREE TRIAL.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Clubs & Classes Directory Photo courtesy F&F Schoolwear

3 years. 0118 940 3978, www.thewargraveballetschool.co.uk

West Berks Ballet School ballet, modern and tap for 4+yrs in Upper Bucklebury. 01635 868 607, www.wbbs.org

Drama and Performing Arts

VHDance holds classes for

children from 2½yrs-adults, with classes held in Emmer Green, Caversham and Sonning Common. VHDance offers Modern, Tap, Ballet, Urban Dance and Musical Theatre, Yearly Exams, Annual Shows, Termly class demonstrations and Holiday workshops. VHDance prides itself on teaching of the highest quality whilst having an engaging and friendly atmosphere. To find out what VHDance can offer you contact Vicky on 07970 142 934, email vickysdance@googlemail. com or visit our website www.vhdance.co.uk

(see also entries under Dance)

Dance Reality Studios – Baby

Ballet, Tap and Street from 2½+yrs, Street Dance, Hip Hop and Breakdance, Ballroom and Latin American, Musical Theatre, Zumba, Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Fiz ‘a la Glee’, Take The Stage Performing Arts School, GCSE Dance, Unleashed Street Crews, Festival Groups.

Adults and children’s classes in Tilehurst. 0118 942 1896, www.dancerealitystudios.co.uk

Allenova School of Dancing –

ballet, tap, modern, jazz, musical theatre, ballroom latin, hip hop, adult classes and baby classes from 2½+yrs in Caversham, Earley, Tilehurst, Reading, Thatcham and Newbury. 01635 201 701, www.allenova.co.uk

JG Dance & Theatre College – ballet, jazz, acrobatics and tap for 2½+yrs in Caversham, Woodley, Tilehurst, Henley, Marlow, Bourne End and Twyford. 01491 572 000, www.jgdance.co.uk

All Stars Theatre Academy –

Ballet, Tap, Modern, Street Jazz, Gymnastic Dance, Drama, Singing and Zumba. Classes start from just £3.50 per week. Branches in Burghfield Common, Lower Earley, Mortimer, Silchester, Tadley, Thatcham and Theale. Beginners to professional. 0118 986 8000, info@allstardance.co.uk, www.allstardance.co.uk

Limelight Academy of Performing Arts – ballet, tap,

modern, jazz, drama, hip hop, musical theatre, limbering and singing for all ages in Warfield and Bracknell. 01344 303 000, www.limelightuk.co.uk

Lynnette Stephenson Academy of Dance – ballet for

The Barch Dance Academy –

3+yrs and modern and tap for 5+yrs in Binfield. 0118 989 2531

ballet, tap, modern and jazz in Winkfield Row and Binfield for 2½+yrs. 01344 779 020

Martins Heron School of Dance – ballet, tap, street jazz and

Dancercise - dance, exercise and

modern for 3+yrs plus adult classes in Martins Heron. 01344 411 640, www.martinsheronschoolofdance. co.uk

have fun with Dancercise. Baby classes, Ballet, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Street Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Zumba. Adults and children from 2½+yrs. Classes are held in Emmer Greeen, Sonning and High Wycombe. 0774 339 8844, dancercise@live.com, www.dancerciseuk.com

Sapphire School of Dancing -

ballet, tap, modern jazz, ballroom, sequence, cheerleading, Latin dance, lyrical and Zumba in Tilehurst, Caversham, Sandhurst, Sonning

Common, Thatcham, for adults and children. 07875 593 837, emma@thetalentstop.co.uk, www.thetalentstop.co.uk

South Hill Park’s Children’s Dance - Toddler Fun Dance

(2-4yrs), Contact Improvisation/ Contemporary (11+yrs), Street Vibes (8-16yrs), Hip Hop (12+yrs), Contemporary Dance Force (12+yrs), Mini Feet Street (2-4yrs), Twinkle Tots Ballet (2-5yrs), Teen Ballet (11+yrs) and Street Dance Evolution (10+yrs) in Bracknell. 01344 484 123/01344 484 858, www.southhillpark.org.uk

Spotlights Dance Centre -

disco, street, rock ‘n’ roll, ballroom, Latin, salsa and cheerleading for 3+yrs in Woodley and Wokingham. 0118 979 5044, www.spotlightsdance.com

StageWorks for 4-84yrs offer

assessments in Dance, Drama and Singing, LAMDA exams, Street jazz, workshops, Adult Tap, Just Dance, Ladies Dance/Fitness, Parties, Personal Training and Boot Camps in Henley, Caversham, Cookham and Benson. 01491 877205, enquiries@stageworks.org.uk, www.stageworks.org.uk

TPAI - offer ballet, tap, modern, street dance, musical theatre, cheerleading for 2½yrs-adult at Pingewood, Reading. 0118 959 1885, www.tpai.co.uk

Wargrave Ballet School -

ballet for 2¾+yrs in Wargrave and Charvil, plus Tiny Toes music and movement for steady walkers to

Dramatix Productions run fun and innovative workshops which involve improvisation, mini plays, characterisation, confidence building, teamwork, mime and much more! They also hold 100% pass at merit and distinction for LAMDA (drama) examinations. Costs are £4/5 per week. Little performers aged 4-6, Junior drama 7-11, and senior drama 11-17.

Classes at Moulsford, Ascot, Purley and Earley. Book a FREE trial www.dramatixproductions. co.uk or call Janine Coello on 07886 918 492. New term starts Mon 24 Sept.

Starmaker needs YOU With Starmaker celebrating its 25th birthday next year, we are performing Les Mis and Cats school editions, plus enjoy a special 25th party at Reading Concert Hall and we need YOU TO COME AND AUDITION to join us for what will be a wonderful year. For more information please call 0118 988 7959 or visit our website for more information. www.starmakeruk.org Berkshire Arts Academy, BARTA - Performing arts training

at South Hill Park, Bracknell. Dance, Acting and Singing classes for children 7-16yrs. 07825 558 757, www.berkshireartsacademy.com • Win a free term at BARTA, see page 22

variableNotNew classes in Sonning Common

We're having a Ball!

For details and availability call: 07718 606 765 (Little Kickers Reading & Wokingham)

Fun, friendly, well researched Music and Movement classes for 0 to 3 year olds in Caversham and Sonning Common.

For more details email music@intuneteaching.co.uk or call 07500 220588 (Sonning Common) or 0118 9479673 (Caversham)

FREE TASTER CLASS!

or email the team at nempson@littlekickers.co.uk Classes in Winnersh, Woodley, Reading, Tilehurst, Caversham, Wokingham & Crowthorne. Classes run throughout the week and weekends, mornings and afternoons.

01628 526 584 (Little Kickers Maidenhead) or email Ben at bevans@littlekickers.co.uk Classes in Maidenhead, Bourne End, Marlow & Henley-onThames. Classes run during the week and weekends, mornings and afternoons.

Approved football training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years www.kindermusik.co.uk

www.littlekickers.co.uk

See our complete directory at www.familiestvw.co.uk/classes

Thames Valley West

PAGE 27

Clubs & Classes Directory Jo Jingles is Here!

Fun Music, Singing & Movement Classes for children aged 3 months to 5 years Develop your child’s • Social Skills • Confidence • Co-ordination • Language • Listening Skills • Imagination

For details on classes in: Winkfield Row, Jennett’s Park & Bracknell Leisure Centre Call Jackie on 01344 484473 www.jojingles.com/ascot

Henley-on-Thames, Twyford, Windsor, Maidenhead & Burnham Call Andreas on 07590 434016 www.jojingles.com/windsor

DANCERCISE VENUES:

HIGH WYCOMBE Guild Hall

SONNING Pearson Hall & Beech Lodge

READING Amersham Road Community Centre Emmer Green Youth & Community Centre The Ground Floor Youth Provision

For more information and for booking a free trial please visit

www.dancerciseuk.com

or contact 07743 398 844 - dancercise@live.com

Berkshire Theatre School -

singing, dancing and acting classes at Loddon Primary School, Earley. LAMDA examinations in drama and musical theatre offered. Little Stars 3-6yrs, Starlets 6-8yrs and Seniors 9-18yrs. £92-£260 per term including optional ballet class.

Sibling discounts. sammyfonfe@yahoo.co.uk, 07785 233 282

Berzerk Productions LAMDA exam classes. Unique Drama Factory workshops, musical theatre and production opportunities for 6-19yrs in Tilehurst, Woodley, Spencers Wood, Caversham, Reading, Pangbourne and Woodcote. Trial class free. Call 07863 734 830, www.berzerkproductions.com or www.facebook.com/ BerzerkProductions Debutots – a blend of interactive storytelling and dramatic play across Reading and surroundings. Multi-sensory Baby Story Play classes for 6 months2yrs and interactive Early Years Drama classes for 2-7yrs.

Free trial class. 0118 947 2698, www.debutots.co.uk Henley Children’s Theatre Group - singing acting and

dancing for 3½-16yrs. Saturday classes are held in a fun, informal environment, where children can develop confidence and enjoy themselves. Two productions a year at the Kenton Theatre.

01491 613 991, www.henleychildrenstheatre.co.uk

Jam Theatre Company – professional theatre company offering training in acting, singing, dance and technical theatre for 7-18yrs in Marlow. 01628 483 808, info@jamtheatre.co.uk, www.jamtheatre.co.uk, Perform - drama, dance and

singing-based workshops for 4-8yrs in Newbury, Pangbourne, Henley, Reading, Twyford, Wokingham, Crowthorne, Basingstoke and Wallingford. Also Perform Plus classes for 8-12yrs at Wokingham and Wallingford. 0845 400 1283, www.perform.org.uk

Razzamataz Theatre School

- for 4-18yrs in Wokingham and Woodley offering street dance, commercial and musical theatre, drama and singing, with the best outside performing opportunities in the area. 0118 979 1814/07970 034488, www.razzamataz.co.uk

The UK’s first rugby specific play programme for young children Weekly play session for children from 2 - 7 years.

A fun, energetic and structured play programme.

For further information please call

0845 313 3255

michele@rugbytots.co.uk

PAGE 28

Thames Valley West

RDT Schools – excellence in dance, drama and singing training with West End professionals right here in West Berks. 0118 966 6774, www.readtheatreschools.co.uk South Hill Park - youth theatre

for 9-11yrs, 12-15yrs and 16-19yrs in Bracknell. 01344 484 123/01344 484 858, www.southhillpark.org.uk

StageAbility Stage School –

high-energy after-school drama classes for kids who love to ACT! 5-15yrs in Tilehurst, Lower Earley, Wokingham and Burghfield.

0118 933 3791, jackie@berkshire.stageability.co.uk, www.berkshire.stageability.co.uk

Stagecoach Theatre Arts School - dance, drama and

singing for 4-16yrs in Bracknell

01753 664 105, Bracknell North 0845 055 6382, Newbury 0870 061 3526, Reading East 01932 348 844, Reading West 0844 800 9482 and Wokingham 0845 265 7050, www.stagecoach.co.uk

The Talent Stop – performing arts incorporating dancing (hiphop’n’street and jazz), acting (TV and theatre), cheerleading, singing (musicals and pop) as well as juggling, filming and stagefighting etc. for 2½-16yrs in Tilehurst, Sonning Common, Thatcham and Sandhurst with a show every year. 07875 593 837, emma@thetalentstop.co.uk, www.thetalentstop.co.uk

Football There are lots of local youth teams taking girls and boys from 4+yrs. Visit www.berks-bucksfa. com/findaclub or www. oxfordshirefa.com/findaclub to find one close to you.

Kiddikicks – football coaching 18 months to 5 years. Ligasoccer – coaching and match play 5 to 7 years at Shokk Gym on Saturdays and Jennets Park Community Centre on Sundays, both in Bracknell. Birthday parties, school and nursery services also available.

020 7937 7965, book online www.kiddikicks.co.uk Little Kickers – fun football training sessions for 18mths-7yrs in Reading, Woodley, Tilehurst, Caversham, Crowthorne Wokingham & Winnersh (07718 606 765) and Henley, Marlow, Maidenhead & Bourne End (01628 526 584), www.littlekickers.co.uk

Gymnastics & Trampolining Bracknell Trampoline Centre - for children and adults,

at Brakenhale School, Coningsby, Bracknell. 01344 306 301, www. bracknelltrampolinecentre.co.uk

Bulmershe Gymnastics Club

– a range of classes for all ages & abilities, from walking to adult at a purpose-built gym in Woodley. 0118 926 3686, admin@bulmershegymnastics.co.uk, www.bulmershegymnastics.co.uk

Pinewood Gymnastics Club

- classes from 1 year to adult, conducted in a purpose built centre in Wokingham. 01344 773 237, www.pinewoodgymnastics.co.uk

Pinewood Trampoline Club

- based at Pinewood Gym Club, Wokingham for 3+yrs. 07711 280 573, www.pinewoodgymnastics. co.uk

Reading Trampoline Club for 5+yrs at Crossfields School, Shinfield Rd, Reading. 0118 957 2371, www.reading.biz.tc

Shokk Youth Gym – new

central Bracknell gym with equipment and classes just for 5-16yrs. After school and Saturday classes in Zumba, Zumbatomic, street dance, Shokk Kombat, Shokk Race and Body Shokk.

01344 308 163, www. shokkyouthgym.com/bracknell

Thames Valley Gym – gym classes for all ages in Sonning Common. 0118 972 4401.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Clubs & Classes Directory Photo © taniho - Fotolia.com

Hockey

Children’s Games Club - a

selection of draughts, Scrabble, Connect 4 or bring your own favourite game, for 7+yrs, every Mon, 3.30-4.30pm at Finchampstead Library.

0118 908 8176

Local clubs run junior sections for girls and boys. Find one at www.englandhockey.co.uk/findaclub or try one of these.

Henley Hockey Club – coaching

for school years reception to year 10 on Sunday mornings at Jubilee Park, Henley. 01491 636 309, www.henleyhockeyclub.co.uk

Palmer Park Chatterbooks Group – at Palmer Park Library,

Reading on last Thurs of month, 4-5pm, for confident and enthusiastic readers 8–11yrs, term time. 0118 937 5106

Phoenix & Ranelagh Hockey Club – juniors from 8+yrs at

Rivermead Leisure Centre, Reading, on Sunday mornings. prhockeyclub@ yahoo.co.uk, www.pr-hockey.org.uk

Southcote Library - Children’s

Library Club for 7-9yrs on the 2nd Thurs of month, 4.30–5.30pm. Hear stories and play board games.

Children’s Book Club for 9-12yrs on the last Thurs of month, 4.30– 5.30pm. 0118 937 5109

Reading Hockey Club – boys

and girls, April-September, 4-18yrs in Sonning. 0118 969 9049, www.readinghockeyclub.org.uk

Wokingham Book Borrowers

Languages Alouette – fun French classes with music and play for 3-6yrs in Wokingham. 07759 812 016, alouetteclub@yahoo.com

Discover Dutch – fun activities, games and songs in Dutch for 2-8yrs in Marlow, also private tuition. 07948 246 281, www.discoverdutch.co.uk

Kennet Leisure Centre – Activ8

Istok Russian School – all levels of Russian language for children 3-15yrs in Reading (Saturdays) and Bracknell (Sundays). Russian culture and celebrations, drama and art courses, music and singing lessons, and GCSE preparation. 07917 044 866, www.schoolistok.com

Leisure Centres We’ve got lots more local leisure centre activities listed at www.familiestvw.co.uk/ leisurecentres

using the gym equipment sessions for 8+yrs, swimming lessons, football for 5-10yrs and trampolining for 4-14yrs in Thatcham. 01635 871 112, www.leisurecentre.com

Loddon Valley Leisure Centre

- The Pod interactive fitness facility for 8+yrs, kung fu for 8+yrs, basketball for 6+yrs and swimming for all ages in Lower Earley. 0118 931 2066, www.harpersfitness.co.uk

Meadway Sports Centre -

Bracknell Leisure Centre – badminton for 7+yrs, gymnastics for 4+yrs, ballet for 3+yrs, free-style dance for 6+yrs, freestyle gymnastics, cheerleading and team gym, trampolining for 5+yrs, soccer for 3-5yrs, squash for 8+yrs, swimming and diving for all ages, synchronised swimming, rookie lifesaver and lifeguarding. 01344 454 203, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be Edgbarrow Sports Centre -

Highdown Sports Centre – offers swimming and gymnastics classes in Emmer Green. 0118 937 5095, www.readingleisure.co.uk

gymnastics for 3-16yrs, trampolining for 3-12yrs, bouncy castle/ trampolining for 1-5yrs, archery for 9+yrs, badminton for 7-16yrs, and Inclusion classes in Go Karting & Multisports for 8-16yrs in Crowthorne. 01344 776 211, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

swimming for 6+yrs, badminton for 6+yrs, trampolining for 5+yrs and gymnastics for 5+yrs in Tilehurst. 0118 937 5060, www.readingleisure.co.uk

Rivermead Leisure Complex –

swimming courses from 6 mths to adult beginners or intermediates in Reading plus Zone drop in sessions at weekends for 5-15yrs with activities including the Climbing Wall, Tizzball, Jump zone, and the Trainer walls. 0118 901 5000, www.better.org.uk

Sandhurst Sports Centre -

junior courses in judo for 5-15yrs, trampolining for 5-18yrs, gymnastics for 5-16yrs and badminton for 7-16yrs. 01344 778 836, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

St Crispins Leisure Centre -

badminton, ballet, tap, trampolining and street dance for 4-16yrs in Wokingham. 0118 979 1066, www.harpersfitness.co.uk

Theale Green Recreation Centre - gymnastics for 5+yrs,

trampolining for all ages, taekwondo, karate. 0118 932 3725, www.leisurecentre.com

– fun book discussion group for 7-11yrs and their parents at Wokingham Library, term time.

0118 978 1368

Woodley Library Children’s Chess Club - 1st Thurs of the

month, 3.30-5pm, for 8+yrs.

0118 969 0304

Martial Arts Boxing, Martial Arts and Fitness Academy – for adults and

Burghfield Common centre offers trampolining for 5-14yrs, and Aquazone swimming lessons for all ages and abilities. 0118 983 4845, www.leisurecentre.com

children. Ladies only classes, Boxercise, Circuit Training, Self-Defence Courses, Body Toning, Personal Training 1-2-1.

Available to teach anywhere, 24 years of experience, CRB checked, fully qualified and insured, family discount available plus term bookings. Call Leroy on 0118 958 7085/07786 062 560, www.boxingandmartialartsclub.co.uk

Library Clubs

The Karate Club – 6+yrs in

Willink Leisure Centre -

Here is just a selection. Check at your local library for others.

Battle Library – Homework

Club every Tuesday, 3.30-4pm.

Bookworms after school club for 5–11yrs. Hear some stories and talk about what you are reading. 1st, 2nd & 4th Fri of month, term time.

0118 937 5100

Board Fridays – a selection of

chess, draughts, Connect 4 or bring your own favourite game, for 7+yrs, every Fri, 4-5.30pm at Wargrave Library. 0118 940 4656

Caversham Library Children’s Library Club – book based games

and activities for 7-11yrs on last Tues & Thurs of month, 4-5pm, term time. 0118 937 5103

Wokingham, Sandhurst, Theale, Lower Earley and Tadley. 01252 843 833/0771 371 4167, www.thekarateclub.co.uk

Lenny Wheeler’s Judo – judo

for 5+yrs to adult. Classes on Fridays at Caversham Park School and Wednesdays at St John’s Hall, Caversham, 0118 948 3168

Nemesis Martial Arts & Fitness Club – variety of martial

arts skills for 8+yrs in Lower Earley, Rivermead Leisure Centre and in central Reading. 07811 085 778, www.nemesismartialarts.co.uk

Reading TaekwonDo Academy – Tiger Cub classes for

4-6yrs, juniors from 6+yrs and adults at Radstock School, RG6 5UZ (Mon & Thu); Maiden Place Community Centre, Earley, RG6 3HE (Tue);

Call your local Stagecoach to Enrol Bracknell Bracknell North Newbury

01753 664105 0845 0556382 0870 0613526

Reading East Reading West Wokingham

01932 348844 0844 800 9482 0845 265 7050

www.stagecoach.co.uk

Hundreds more clubs & classes at www.familiestvw.co.uk/classes

Thames Valley West

PAGE 29

Clubs & Classes Directory CHILDREN’S SWIMMING LESSONS Bracknell & Thatcham

St Mary’s School, Shinfield, RG2 9EJ (Wed); and David Lloyd Sports Centre, Reading, RG6 1PT (Fri).

01344 777 522/07766 125 735, lynne.lewendon@sky.com, www.reading-tkd.com

Music

• Non-swimmers & Improvers from 3 1/2 years • Snorkelling & Diving • Advanced & Club level swimmers • 6 children per class • Teachers CRB checked • Term & Holiday courses available

( local rate ) rose@swimlessons.co.uk │ www.swimlessons.co.uk

Berkshire Maestros – tuition available in brass, guitar, keyboard, percussion, strings, woodwind and voice. Group and individual lessons for 5-19yrs in schools and local music centres. Plus wide range of choirs, bands and ensembles; Mini Maestros classes for 3+yrs; and loan instruments. 0118 901 2370, www.berkshiremaestros.org.uk Earley Music Centre – individual teaching for 5+yrs in flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, strings, piano, drums, brass, acoustic and electric guitar or join the band, choir or ensemble. 07764 461 764, www.earleymusic.co.uk Hickies Music School – private lessons in Reading for piano, keyboard, guitar and violin. 0118 957 5771, www.hickies.co.uk South Hill Park – junior piano lessons in Bracknell. 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk

Orienteering Dance, Drama, Singing Classes, Street Jazz, LAMDA Exams, Adult Tap, Ladies Dance, Just Dance, Holiday Workshops, Personal Training and Boot Camps for Ages 4 – 84+ We rehearse for LIVE PERFORMANCES at Professional Working Theatres/Presentations/Festivals/Carnivals/Charity Events all year round...!

Get Fit, have fun and JOIN NOW! ‘StageWorks is one of the leading performing arts schools in the local area’ Schools in Henley, Caversham, Cookham & Benson’ Call 01491 877205 for your FREE trial or emailenquiries@stageworks.org.uk

www.stageworks.org.uk

Berkshire Orienteers hold regular events for adults and juniors from about 6+yrs at various locations. www.bko.org.uk

Riding Bearwood Riding Centre -

riding in Arborfield for 4+yrs.

0118 976 0010, www.bearwoodridingcentre.com

Binfield Heath Polo Club –

for 8+yrs, all levels and abilities, complete beginners and non riders.

0797 624 2877, www.parklanepolo.co.uk

Cloud Stables – riding lessons

Britain’s leading National Physical Play Programme Classes in Winnersh, Woodley, Wokingham, Finchampstead, Reading

FREE TRIAL sessions available Call Helen on 0118 973 6711 www.tumbletots.com/reading

for all abilities, Arborfield. 0118 976 1522, www.cloudstables.co.uk

Hall Place Equestrian Centre

- riding in Tilehurst for all ages and riding abilities, children’s holiday activities, pony parties. 0118 942 6938, www.hall-place.com

Lands End Equestrian Centre – specialise in children’s

riding lessons and nervous riders, near Twyford, for 2+yrs. 0118 934 1367/0788 525 7900, www. landsendequestriancentre.co.uk

RG12 Football training for under 5s who are nuts about football Get your midfield dynamo enjoying super-skills, fun & exercise CRB checked & FA qualified coaches Training sessions, courses & parties across London

kiddikicks.co.uk 020 7937 7965

NEW! Match Play for Under 8s PAGE 30

Wellington Riding – riding for 5+yrs, beginners to advanced, residential and non-residential courses for children and adults, show venue in Heckfield, on A33. 0118 932 6308, www.wellington-riding.co.uk

Rugby To find details of local rugby clubs with junior coaching visit www.rfu. com/takingpart and use the ‘find a club’ facility.

RugbyTots - classes for

children 2-7yrs at various venues locally. 0845 313 3255, www.rugbytots.co.uk

School Support Dyslexia Assessments –

educational assessments designed to identify specific learning difficulties, IQ tests also available.

07950 829 764, www.dyslexiaassessments.com

Explore Learning - Maths and English tuition centre for 5-14yrs within Sainsburys, Calcot. Free trial session. 0118 942 4002, www. explorelearning.org.uk/reading Fleet Tutors – home tutoring and private tuition for prep school entry, 11+, common entrance exams, SATs and dyslexia/remedial help. 0845 644 5452, www.fleet-tutors.co.uk Kumon - nationwide provider of

Maths and English programmes for all ages throughout the area. 0800 854 714, www.kumon.co.uk

Swimming Many local leisure centres have swimming courses. Find details online at www.familiestvw.co.uk/ leisurecentres

GBS Swim School – swimming courses for 4+yrs of all abilities, lifesaving, life support, Bronze Medallion/Silver Medallion/Award of Merit at St Joseph’s Convent and Leighton Park schools in Reading.

0118 966 8912 GR Swimming School –

children’s swimming lessons from 3½yrs old in Newbury, Thatcham and Bracknell areas teaching beginners, improvers, academy and club level swimmers, snorkelling and diving. 6 children per teacher, structured lessons, ASA award scheme. 0845 094 1575, www.swimlessons.co.uk

JEMA Swim School - learn to swim and stroke improvement from 3yrs, ASA badge scheme.

Parent/Toddler/Baby and Adult. At St. Mary’s School South Ascot & Dukes Covert, Bagshot. ASA qualified teachers, 20yrs experience. Chris Shepherd 01784 455 205 or 07702 412 090, cshep66@hotmail.co.uk Reading Royals Synchronised Swimming Club – build your water

confidence. Fun groups for 5-8yrs and Aquafun courses for 9-11yrs in Reading. 07545 855 173, www. readingroyalssynchro.btck.co.uk

Shamu Swim School –

swimming, lifesaving and diving lessons for 4+yrs at Sonning Common, Kendrick, Queen Anne’s and Highdown Schools (plus Sonning Common and Highdown for 2+yrs with adult). Also precompetition swimming at Queen Anne’s School. Jill 07805 203 144/ Jan 07805 200 261

Table Tennis You can find details of the many local clubs in the greater Reading area (from Wokingham to Pangbourne) plus details of junior coaching and useful information on getting started at www.readingtabletennis.org

Tennis There are lots of local clubs offering coaching and classes to juniors. Find one near you by visiting www.lta.org.uk/in-your-area

Winter Sports John Nike LeisureSports Complex, Bracknell – skiing

lessons for 4+yrs and ice skating lessons. 01344 789 000, www.jnlbracknell.co.uk

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Clubs & Classes

by Jude Chapman

Ballet for Beginners It’s an exciting time when your little one enrols for their first dance classes. However, parents are often unsure about the uniform their budding ballerinas should be wearing and why they need to wear it. Who better to give us some answers than Jude Chapman owner of Dancia International, Reading’s only specialised dancewear shop.

Even if your child is not yet school age, September may still mark their enrolment in a new activity. Clubs and classes generally follow the academic calendar and for many children – especially girls – this will mean starting a dance class.

Teachers of ‘baby ballet’ often take pupils from as young as 2½, and they may even include tap dancing as part of the class! School aged children may follow a recognised syllabus such as that of the RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) or ISTD (Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing), and be given the opportunity to take exams if they wish.

For some mums, their child’s enrolment into ballet classes opens up a whole new world. If you have just set foot on the path to being a ‘dance mum’, then here are the answers to a few of the most common questions we are asked:

What Should My Child Wear For Ballet Classes?

With the exception of some baby ballet classes, your child will be expected to wear the uniform

Jude Chapman in her dancewear shop

specified by their dance school. For girls, this will usually include a leotard, skirt, ballet tights or socks and a pair of ballet shoes. Hair should be kept neatly off the face, either in a bun or with a matching head band.

Is A Uniform Really Necessary?

Whilst this may seem rather strict, there are a number of good reasons for dance schools to insist upon the wearing of a uniform.

Firstly, as well as being a very enjoyable hobby, ballet is also a discipline, and turning up to class well groomed and in the correct clothing is part of that discipline. It gives children a sense of belonging and makes them feel part of something special. Feeling prepared and ready in the ’right‘ outfit will greatly enhance your child’s attitude in class.

On a practical level, the wearing of a correctly fitting leotard enables the student to move freely, whilst helping the teacher to check and correct alignment. Also, the colour and/or style of the leotard will often denote the level at which a pupil is working.

For example, a pupil following the RAD syllabus may wear pink at primary level, lavender at Grades 1 & 2, and navy or black thereafter.

How Will I Know What Uniform To Purchase?

You will usually be given a uniform list when you enrol your child. Your local dance shop will almost certainly have a copy of this list, and the staff will be able to pick out the correct uniform for you. They will also ensure that it is fitted correctly,

which is particularly important for leotards and ballet shoes. You will just need to be able to tell them which grade of class your child is in, e.g. pre-primary, primary, Grade 1 etc, as the uniform is likely to be different for each class.

How Should Ballet Shoes Fit? Unlike outdoor shoes, which are fitted with quite a bit of ‘growing room’, ballet shoes should always fit snugly. As the sizing of ballet shoes is different to that of normal shoes, and can also vary from one make to another, it is advisable to take your child to be fitted properly. An experienced fitter will firstly establish whether the shoes are to be worn just for weekly classes, or for an exam. If the shoes are going to be worn only for classes, then a small amount of room at the toes is acceptable.

However, for an exam, the shoes must be very snug indeed, with the toes flat and comfortable but touching the front of the shoe. The fitter will assess your child’s feet and try different makes and widths in order to achieve the correct fit.

Hundreds more clubs & classes at www.familiestvw.co.uk/classes

At What Age Do Girls Wear Pointe Shoes?

Most budding ballerinas long for the day when they will be able to dance on their toes, or ‘en pointe’.

However, because of the strength and technique required for pointe work, a dancer must train in soft ballet slippers for several years before attempting to wear pointe shoes. Dancers are evaluated by their ballet teacher to determine if they are physically ready to meet the demands of pointe work.

Usually this will not be before the age of 11. The fitting of pointe shoes is a specialist service. Once your daughter has been told she is ready to go en pointe, you should make an appointment with a trained fitter at your local dance shop, who will spend as long as necessary finding the right pair of pointe shoes for her.

Dancia International can be found at 36-38 Prospect St, Caversham, Reading, RG4 8JL. For more information visit www.dancia.co.uk/reading or call 0118 947 8123.

Thames Valley West

PAGE 31

Don’t miss our next issue out at the beginning of November.

It’s packed with Under 5s activities and lots of Xmas cheer!

Jubilee Day Nursery

I wrote my name in sugar, mud and even on paper

Providing children with the space, time, opportunities and freedom to achieve in everything they do...

Every day at Jubilee is a learning adventure where children are able to explore the world around them and develop the skills needed to face the new challenge of school life and beyond

One day I'll be wowing the crowds on a violin

We counted and built a high tower ... I'm an engineer Jubilee Day Nursery, Paddock View, Rectory Road, Padworth Common, Reading, Berkshire RG7 4JD Tel: 0118 970 1600 Email: info@jubileedaynursery.co.uk Web: www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk

I loved baking

I want to be a vet

We worked as a team

"Jubilee has been so much fun, I have learnt so much and now I am ready for Big School" Jubilee Day Nursery sends their best wishes to all children starting Big School in September 2012

Opening in September 2012

We will be a small and friendly nursery for children aged 3-­‐5 years

Qualified and experienced staff

Tel: Emma 07554090647 www.englefieldnurseryschool.co.uk

Classified Thames Valley West Printed by Warners Midlands Plc. Copyright Families Thames Valley West August 2012. Families Thames Valley West is part of a group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West London. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.