Families Pennines Sept/Oct 17 Issue 40 by Families Magazine

Pennines

IN THIS ISSUE

Back to School Halloween Childrenâ€™s author Tom Palmer

What's On over SEPTEMBER and OCTOBER

Plus

News, Education and Classes

Issue 40 September/October2017

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WELCOME

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WELCOME

Back to school! And it’s back to school we go! Hope you had a super Summer! We had some fab family days out over the six weeks across the region, visiting old haunts and finding new ones. We’d love to hear about your recommendations! I met with local children’s author Tom Palmer who does some amazing work with schools and libraries across the UK to inspire young people to read. If you haven’t already, check out his books, many of which are based in Halifax and Huddersfield – so you may be familiar with some of the locations! Our bumper back to school feature has lots of great articles focusing on education, school open days, plus information on European Researchers’ Night, an evening of interactive science fun for the whole family, taking place at the University of Huddersfield in September. If you’re planning for the next school holiday in October, check out our What’s On section for some great inspiration. There’s also some spooky craft and food ideas to get your family in the Halloween spirit. Did you notice we have a new brand on the front cover? Hope you like it! Good luck with the start of the new term, especially if your little one starts school for the first time, or your bigger ones are moving to a new one. Enjoy the Autumn!

Emily Raleigh Editor, Families Pennines

FAMILIES PENNINES Editor: Emily Raleigh 07974 401663 editor@familiespennines.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk @FamiliesPenMag

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CIRCULATION 20,000 DEADLINE Mid October 2017 FRONT COVER iStock.com/monkeybusinessimages DESIGNED BY Theresa McDermott, 07462 961793, www.designedbytree.com PRINTED BY Brookfoot Print, 01484 722732, www.brookfootptrint.co.uk Copyright Families Pennines September/ October 2017

IN THIS

ISSUE familiesonline.co.uk

iStock.com/SolStock

04 NEWS

06 TOM PALMER INTERVIEW

07 BACK TO SCHOOL

Magic Light Pictures

13 HALLOWEEN

14 WHAT’S ON Families Pennines 3

iStock.com/Image Source

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

New History is stories England’s largest and most diverse festival of history, Heritage Open Days, is expanding again this year, focusing on hidden stories and historical secrets from thousands of towns, villages and regions across the country. From artists’ studios to nuclear bunkers, revealing hidden gardens and historic houses, and telling the stories of those who lived, built, worked and died in them. Heritage Open Days, which takes place from 7-10 September, is co-ordinated and promoted nationally by the National Trust with funding by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, and run locally by a large range of organisations (including civic societies,

Left to right: ©SeachangeArtsTrust, ©AndrewHeptinstall, ©JulianBrown, ©AndrewBillingtonPhotography

heritage organisations, local councils, community champions and thousands of enthusiastic volunteers). Annie Reilly, manager of Heritage Open Days, said: “History is stories, all our stories, and this year, more than ever before, Heritage Open Days is a celebration of that.” For more information about local open days in your area, go to heritageopendays.org

Wear A Ha Day 2018!

Wear A Hat Day is the UK’s premier brain tumour research fundraising event. It takes place on 29 March 2018 as part of UK Brain Tumour Awareness Month. Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer… yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK that is purely dedicated to raising funds for continuous and sustainable scientific research into brain tumours. Taking part can be as simple as putting on a hat and donating on the day, but many like to create entertaining fundraising events. Many schools for example have inventive hat competitions, parades and fashion shows and raise hundreds if not thousands of pounds. On average, organisations raise £250, with small ones £50 and some raising more than £2,000! Whatever target you set yourselves aim to smash it!! More information, event ideas and fundraising tips can be found online: wearahatday.org.

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Ed’s Reading Room

10-minute ‘Shake-Up’ to get more kids active Change4Life has teamed up with Disney and Sport England to launch its 10 Minute Shake Ups programme to get more kids active.

I’m Ed and here is my Autumn book selection for you to enjoy. Have fun reading!

The programme offers fun, 10-minute activities for kids, featuring their favourite Disney characters as inspiration. The activities, designed for children to do anywhere in small or large groups with their friends, help children get more of the recommended 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity they need each day for healthy development and to maintain a healthy weight.

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS The Night Box by Louise Greig (Egmont £6.99) ED SAYS: ‘When Max turns the key in the Night Box, darkness swoops out and spills into the world. Thousands of stars begin to sparkle. Birds and animals that prefer the night come out to play. Then when it is the turn of night to fall asleep, Max opens the box and out comes Day. ‘This is a wonderfully atmospheric story about the magic of night-time.'

The number of children meeting the recommended amount of physical activity, drops by 40% as they move through 0primary school, according to a new survey from Public Health England (PHE).

The No 1 Car Spotter Fights the Factory by Atinuke (Walker £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘No 1 gets his name from being the No 1 car spotter in his village. Good news comes that his father will be back from working in the city as a new factory is giving work to the locals. And the owner of the factory, to No 1’s delight, owns a Bugatti! When problems start to arise, will No 1 be able to use his ingenuity to put things right?

Dr Rebecca Wagstaff from PHE North West said: “Physical activity is not just a good way to combat obesity but also helps promote good mental health and well-being. The sooner that children make physical activity a part of their everyday lives then the sooner they will have good healthy habits for life.”

‘It is brilliantly written and with its lively illustrations will entertain young readers from start to finish.’

For more information, visit nhs.uk/10-minute-shake-up.

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS Spy Toys: Out of Control by Mark Powers (Bloomsbury £5.99)

Are your kids having too much salt?

ED SAYS: ‘The secret code that controls all the Snaztacular Ultrafun toys has been stolen and toys everywhere are no longer playing nicely with children. It’s up to Dan, Arabella and Flax – also known as the Spy Toys – to get the code back and restore fair play in homes across the world.

Official guidelines have advised that children aged between 1 and 3 should have no more than 2g of salt per day. According to new research by Kiddyum (of 2,000 parents of children aged 1-4), a staggering 84% of parents are not aware of how much salt their child should be having.

‘The story with its super illustrations is great fun and very entertaining.’

Meanwhile, 64% of parents also said that they trust food that’s marketed for children to be low in salt, but unfortunately, that doesn’t seem to be the case.

Moonlocket by Peter Bunzl (Usborne £6.99) ED SAYS: ‘Lily and Robert find themselves part of the search for criminal mastermind Jack Door. Jack is an infamous escapologist and has recently escaped from Pentonville Prison. He is determined to find the missing treasure known as the Moonlocket. Could something in Robert’s past hold the secret to the Moonlocket?

The research highlighted that a portion of spaghetti hoops with two slices of toast can be 117% of a child’s daily amount of salt! While out of six prepared savoury meals for children, half of them contained one third of a child’s daily allowance of salt, while one contained 99% of the maximum serving of salt.

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iStock.com/RuslanOmega

Chloe Joyner, a nutritionist for Kiddyum, said: “It’s really important that young children have a low salt diet and naturally it’s something a lot of parents are concerned about. But it can be tricky for parents to know if a food is high in salt or whether a product contains added salt because sometimes it is hidden in the ingredients, or labels and tables can be misleading.”

‘This gripping adventure will have you on the edge of your seat and the characters will take you on an exciting journey through Victorian London.’ Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free book review website for primary children created by Maggie Humphreys and Les Snowdon. See these reviews, download the reading activities for these books and buy the books online at www.EdontheWeb.com.

Families Pennines 5

FAMILY LIFE

Local author Tom Palmer speaks to Families Pennines Tom Palmer is a local children’s author that hails from Leeds, but now lives in Halifax with his family. With themes such as football, rugby and history, his books are designed to inspire young people into reading. He also works closely with schools and libraries across the UK to promote reading. We caught up with Tom to see how he got into writing and more about his work in schools. How did you get into writing books?

Sport. I struggled with reading when I was younger and my mum got me into reading about football and rugby, and then I started to write about them as well.

Did you ever think that you’d end up making a career in writing books?

No. I didn’t think normal people could be authors. But then I met some authors when I worked in a bookshop in Leeds and I realised that they were just normal people who worked hard and wrote books, so I thought I’d give it a go. Reading books like Wuthering Heights inspired me, as they are set in the Pennines, and made me think if they can write books set here, why can’t I?

How did you get into working with schools and libraries to promote reading?

When my first book came out I started going into schools doing author events and talks about reading for pleasure. I started doing more, the more books I did and really enjoyed it. I mostly cover the UK, but I have done some work overseas, mainly through my reading development work that I’d done with local libraries, where I’ve written papers that were translated into other languages.

What age range do your books target?

The younger ones 7-10, and the older ones 9-13. It’s difficult judging the age because of the content and language. Going into schools is a perfect indicator for me as I can stay in touch with what they like reading and writing and at what age. I also get a lot of support from my publisher to ensure the language is suitable for each age group I’m targeting with my books.

Where do you get your ideas for new books? Do you do a lot of research? The subjects are stuff that interests me. Like Killing Ground, it’s set in the part of Halifax where I live. I walk past the stadium sometimes and the lights are on and it looks a bit spooky. The book I've just had accepted is about a fell runner, and my daughter does fell running. Research depends on the book. I camped in a stadium overnight to know what it was like for Ghost Stadium. I try and immerse myself as much as I can. History is harder. With the Over the Line book, I listened to lots of interviews with former soldiers, I went to the battlefields where they fought – it just helps piece it altogether.

Do you spend time researching real-life characters to ensure your books are as close to the person and their lives as possible?

When they’re real it’s tricky. When I went to visit the grave of Sid 6 Families Pennines

Wheelhouse from Over the Line I realised I was using him as a literary device to evoke empathy or feeling, and I felt ashamed. So I found out more about him, his family, and what he did in his battalion and his career. It taught me a lesson as it was the first book I’d done with real people. You have to be really careful not to exploit them.

Do you get inspiration from people you meet for your fictional characters?

I do! It’s a lot easier. If you develop a character, it can become a bit of a cliché and they become two-dimensional. If you base it on real people and then alter them, I get a better idea of who my characters are.

How long does it usually take you to write a book?

It varies between 1 month and 4 months. Over the Line took longer with all the research I had to do. I’ll usually be writing one, but then planning and researching for the next one. I usually have three at very different stages, but I’d never write more than one at a time.

If you had the chance to turn one of your books into a film, which one would you choose and why?

Over the Line, because it’s my favourite and it’s the one I care most about. It’s also set around here. When I go to Huddersfield, I can imagine Jack, the main character, and Fred walking the streets. I’d like to see it set here before the war, but it’s also an amazing real-life story.

What advice would you give to parents who are trying to engage their children in reading?

I’d do what my mum did for me. She got me reading about things I was interested in. For me it was Ceefax. I hated reading, I was not a reader, but I read every page of Ceefax about sport. I didn’t define myself as a reader, but she made me realise I was. Get children to read about something that interests them on the internet, newspapers or magazines. Often literary fiction can be intimidating and put them off as they don’t understand the emotion and content in them and the big words. So, don’t limit their opportunities.

Do you have any new books or projects that our readers can look out for?

I’ve had an offer for the book about fell running. It’s called Armistice Runner and it’s about a fell runner who goes to the end of the First World War and he’s involved in trench running, running messages around. Next year will be the Armistice Centenary so it will tie in nicely. For more information on Tom and his books, go to tompalmer.co.uk

Favourite childhood book(s)/ author? Ceefax!

Favourite character you’ve created? Lily from Secret FC,

the Squad Series and Armistice Runner, as she’s based on my daughter

Favourite book/story you’ve written? Over the Line Favourite writing drink? Coffee

Favourite writing food?

Costa’s Millionaire Shortbread

The best thing about being an author? Getting paid to do your hobby

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BACK TO SCHOOL

How to get your child involved in coding >>> Coding and programming are great for children to develop important problem-solving skills. It’s almost like learning another language.

iStock.com/FatCamera

Understanding the rules and structures of the HTML codes teaches children how languages are created and differ from each other. Learning these at a young age opens a child's mind when it comes to understanding and learning foreign languages later on.

Computers and technology are fast taking over the modern world and becoming an integral part of our lives. As a result, it’s becoming vital to educate our children correctly, making them more aware and safe, and preparing them for future developments as they reach adulthood. What is coding?_ Coding can be difficult to understand, but it basically tells our computers, smartphones and technology what to do; from setting a spin cycle on a washing machine to sending an email on your laptop.

So why do our children need to learn to code? _ Teaching children coding is now a part of the national curriculum, providing them with basic life skills as well as preparing them for the future.

With more careers available in technology than ever before, computer sciences are becoming as important for job opportunities as sciences and languages.

How can you teach coding to your child?_ Any child that can use a smartphone or tablet can learn some level of coding and programming. There are many ways to teach them the basics and into further developments, but as with any learning, it needs to be fun and interesting. For many children, coding can become a hobby and passion in their life, often without them even realising it. There are many apps, games and websites, such as Daisy the Dinosaur, Hopscotch and Code.org, with endless resources for both your children and you to learn coding and develop your understanding of technology. As a parent, learning alongside your child will not only allow you to expand your own knowledge, but it will encourage them to take an interest. Work together through tasks and games, keeping the emphasis on fun. You will be surprised at how quickly they pick up the basics! With the modern world developing around us, and a technologyheavy future ahead of us, programming is an excellent way of teaching children basic skills and preparing them for a brighter future.

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BACK TO SCHOOL

We’re giving them the confidence to tackle the new school year fearlessly!

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A5 Open events flyer 2017 Oct NEW_Layout 1 30/06/2017 10:10 Page 15 A5 Open events flyer 2017 Oct NEW_Layout 1 30/06/2017 10:10 Page 15

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Rishworth OpenAssessment Evening: Monday 9th (for October, 6:00pm - 8:15pm Year 7 Entrance Morning current Year 6): Saturday 4th November, 9:00am - 12 noon Year 7 Entrance Assessment Morning (for current Year 6): Saturday November, - 12 noon Sixth Form4th Open Evening:9:00am Wednesday 8th November, 6:30pm - 9:00pm Sixth Form Open Evening: Wednesday 8th November, 6:30pm - 9:00pm

Visit us at www.rishworth-school.co.uk or call 822217 to find out more Visit us01422 at www.rishworth-school.co.uk or call 01422 822217 to find out more Rishworth, West Yorkshire, HX6 4QA. Fax: +44 (0)1422 911 HX6 4QA. Rishworth, West820 Yorkshire, E-mail: Fax: +44admissions@rishworth-school.co.uk (0)1422 820 911 E-mail: admissions@rishworth-school.co.uk

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BACK TO SCHOOL

“Making the right choices when it comes to your child’s education is vital and the decision to join Explore was easy.” Parent: Tahir Miah Child’s name & age: Ehsanoor Kamali, aged 11 How long have you been going to Explore? I’ve been coming to Explore Learning Oldham for nearly a year now.

Why did you decide to join Explore? Making the right choices when it comes to your child’s education is vital and the decision to join Explore was easy. Prior to choosing, Ehsanoor had a private tutor for a number of years and we were not seeing any real improvements or progress and this is when we came across Explore Learning. From the offset, I was very impressed with the way the centre was set up, what it had to offer and the support available was great. All the tutors at Explore Oldham are extremely friendly and very supportive.

What impact has Explore had? In a short space of time I have seen significant progress in Ehsanoor’s development, so much so that he has completed his entire SATS test with exceptional results in Maths and English. I recall during our first parent meeting, Ehsanoor was two sets below what he should have been and this was daunting, especially given the curriculum for his year had been made more difficult. The prospect of achieving good results seemed all but impossible. As a result of the centre support, excellent tutoring and team work, we managed amazing results and that’s all credit to the Explore Learning team.

Who would you recommend Explore to? Given the above achievements, my recommendations would be to all parents thinking about providing additional support to their children that they come into the centre and see what they are all about. Trial sessions are usually available and these provide a great intro to the centre.

How do Explore tutors support your child in their sessions? We don’t sit with Ehsanoor in the sessions, but at the end they do session notes where they write down what the session was about, the areas they did well in, where they’ve improved, what needs further development, so we know after each session where we can help. The tutors also reward them for good work, giving them incentives to work towards. For example, they have lizard cards that you can collect for a variety rewards – the more you collect the greater the choices.

What does your child enjoy about their sessions at Explore Learning? There’s a lot of interaction with the tutors. Ehsanoor benefits from sessions if he’s struggling with something at school, like Maths or grammar. They sit down and go through it with him. It’s really made a difference to his development.

How has Explore supported you as a family? When needed we get lots of support from the tutors. They have regular parent evenings where they go through the plan of where Ehsanoor is and where we want him to be in six months. We monitor his progress together. They present graphs and charts which show the data they collect from the sessions and we can see that he’s made lots of progress in such a short space of time.

How has Explore supported what your child is working on at school? All schools will have different methods of teaching; however, Explore Learning will follow your child’s schools’ methodologies, to avoid confusion, which is great.

What advice would you give to other parents thinking about bringing their children to Explore? To come and meet the team at the centre, have a feel for the environment and various courses on offer and what suits their child the best.

What makes Explore Learning a unique tutoring service? It’s all about the great learning system and tutor support that they have in place. I’ve looked at other courses online, but Explore’s sessions are more interesting and interactive. The software they use and the learning structure makes learning fun and user-friendly. When Ehsanoor comes out of his session he’s really excited and looking forward to the next one.

What kind of child do you think Explore Learning is for? Any child from four upwards. They cater for all the way up to secondary school. I’m thinking about sending my daughter who’s four to some trial sessions in the summer. With their sessions being structured, they suit any age. familiesonline.co.uk

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Families Pennines 9

BACK TO SCHOOL

how to choose the right primary school for you Carolyn Barnett, Head of Nursery and Infants at Oldham Hulme Grammar School offers some top tips for choosing the right Primary School. Choosing a Primary School for your child is an extremely important decision and one that should not be taken lightly. No two children or families are the same and therefore choosing a school will be very personal to your family, your child and your circumstances. Here are some top tips that will help to make the process a little easier:

1. What type of Primary school? Consider all your options

as you can about the schools that you are considering. What is the ratio of children to adults in each class? Think about your child, will they be heard/seen in a large class? Would they benefit from having more adults within their class to take guidance from? What qualifications do the staff hold? Does the school provide regular training opportunities for their staff members?

5. The personal touch Think about your own child and ask questions that are pertinent to them. How does the school support children with additional learning needs? What would a typical day look like for your child if they attended the school?

which range from: state primary schools, including faith schools, academies, independent schools and boarding schools.

2. Research Conduct research about the different schools in your area. Look at their website and read their Ofsted or ISI inspection report to give you some initial background information. What results do the children achieve? iStock.com/davidf

4. Gain a deeper understanding Try and find out as much

3. Visit the school Take advantage of the schoolâ€™s Open Days. You may want to ask for a personal tour with the Head Teacher. Are the staff friendly? Do the children seem engaged and happy as you walk around? Are the displays current and stimulating?

6. Resources What facilities can the school offer your child? Are they dated and tired or is the school clearly investing in the future? For example, you may ask about the technological resources that they can offer your child. 7. Extracurricular provision What does the school offer on top of daily lessons? Enquire about the extracurricular provision at the different schools. For example, do they offer speech and drama clubs, a gardening club or instrumental lessons?

Fro m

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DISCOVER POTENTIAL AT OUR OPEN EVENTS Find out what opportunities await at Oldham Hulme Grammar School.

0161 624 4497 | www.ohgs.co.uk | admissions@ohgs.co.uk Friday 29th September 4.00pm - 7.00pm

Saturday 30th September 9.30am - 12.30pm

10 Families Pennines familiesonline.co.uk

BACK TO SCHOOL

Last year this FREE event was hugely popular with over 3,000 visitors of all ages exploring the exciting world of research at the University of Huddersfield. It’s a great event for all the family with something for everyone to enjoy. European Researchers’ Night opens up the world of research and shares the many ways it impacts on the world we all live in. There are so many activities, workshops, tours and talks that we couldn’t list them all here, but here’s a taster of what to look forward to:

Try hands-on radio presenting Venture into the Virtual Reality hub Visit the Eureka! team and have fun with science Have a go at extracting DNA

Get up close to fossils and bones with the Dinosaur Experience Dig for bones in the archaeogenetics sandpit Have a go at 3D printing Discover the facts and fiction of the super rats

u erything yo Find out ev w and need to kno n r place(s) o register you : the website c.uk/steam www.hud.a

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Try and master the maze

Build a railway locomotive and compete to be the fastest Make your own 3D hologram

Discover the tricks used by real Crime Scene Investigators A spectacular laser and fireworks finale!

The European Researchers’ Night project is funded by the European Commission under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions.

Families Pennines 11

CLUBS & CLASSES

How active are your kids? Did you know that one in 5 children start primary school as overweight or obese, which rises to a third by the time they leave primary education? Only 23% of boys and 20% of girls meet the Public Health England (PHE) guidelines for physical activity (currently set at 60 minutes per day). A recent survey by PHE found that 93% of children enjoyed being active, and it is well known that if good habits around sport and physical activity are forged in early years then this carries through into later life. There are a huge variety of children's classes available now, like Tumble Tots, so your child can try lots of different activities. However, participating in physical activity as a family is a great way to spend time together, and can be as easy as going for a walk. Something as simple as jumping over a rope/stick/broom handle on the floor is great exercise. Can your child jump forwards, then backwards or sideways? Can your child skip without a rope? Can they balance on one leg? Have they ever rolled sideways down a hill - getting dizzy is great for the balance mechanism in the inner ear! Can they catch a ball or balloon and throw it back? What about cycling? There are loads of traffic free cycle ways springing up now. It doesn't take much to make your children a little bit more active, which can have a huge impact on their emotional wellbeing and physical health, and may help you too! Go on, give it a go! Monique Brennan runs Tumble Tots, a leading physical play programme for babies and children from 6 months to 7 years, in Huddersfield-North & West Sheffield. For more information on classes call 01484 689467 or go to tumbletots.com/huddersfield.

N Open Monday 9.30am-4pm & Tues – Sun 9.30am -5.45pm

iStock.com/SolStock

Structured physical activity sessions for children aged 6 months to 7 years • Huge range of equipment • High staff-child ratios • Weekday & Saturday classes • Established 1998 01484 689467 www.tumbletots.com/huddersfield monique.brennan@tumbletots.com

12 Families Pennines familiesonline.co.uk

HALLOWEEN

How to get your kids in the Halloween spirit It's one of the best times of the year for children, but how can you help your child get into the spirit of Halloween? We've come up with lots of ideas to create a truly scary atmosphere for your child so that everyone is ready and prepared for the spookiest event of the year.

Get crafty!

imaginative. ake a mess and be m to e lik n re ild ch All t of these r Halloween. Mos fo is th do em th t Well, le and things you simple materials ideas only require nd your house. can find lying arou

For this, you'll need an old toilet roll, paint, scissors, paper and googly eyes. All you need to do is cut the end of the roll into 8 leg sized pieces and bend the legs upwards so they stick out. Dip the legs in black paint and print onto paper. Then stick on your eyes.

Milk bottle ghost_ Using empty milk cartons and black pen, draw spooky faces onto the plastic.

Tissue paper ghouls_ Take an old jam jar and wrap with tissue paper. Then draw spooky faces onto the paper. You can then either place a torch inside or a candle with parental supervision.

Halloween_ decorations_ You can choose whether to design pumpkins, Frankenstein or ghouls and will then need orange, green or white tissue paper respectively. Wrap the tissue around a toilet roll, tuck in at one end and tie with a pipe cleaner at the other. Then decorate with whatever you can get your hands on!

Magic foaming potion_ Take a glass, and place it in a large container to catch overflowing liquid. Fill the glass about halfway full with vinegar. Then put a few drops of food colouring on a spoon with bicarbonate of soda (the more you use the bigger the foam!). Stir the spoon into the vinegar and watch the magic happen. You could also add some glitter for extra sparkle!

Get cooking!

than with lots enjoy Halloween What better way to ly easy and low are some real of edible treats? Be n try at home. cheap ideas you ca

Chocolate mousse gravestones_ Take your chocolate mousse (either homemade or shop bought) and crumble broken Oreo biscuits over the top to resemble dirt. Then stick a rich tea biscuit gravestone and use an icing pen to write the message on the tombstone.

Halloween custard_ Layer broken-up chocolate brownie and custard into a short glass. Once filled to the top, use 2 mini marshmallows and chocolate buttons to create eyes.

Jelly worms_ Pack a cup with straws and pour in your jelly mix. Then leave to set in the fridge. Getting them out can be tricky, but you could turn this into a great Halloween game!

Muddy worms_ Make up a batch of chocolate Angel delight, and poke jelly worms out of the top as though they're coming out of the ground. Then sprinkle with grated chocolate to look like worm casts.

Pumpkin prints_ Cut an apple in half, dip in orange paint and have pumpkin shapes printed before your eyes!

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Spooky spider crafts_

WHATS ON THIS SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER SCHOOL OPEN DAYS

THEATRE & FILM

OLDHAM HULME GRAMMAR SCHOOL Chamber Road, Oldham, OL8 4BX, 0161 624 4497 ohgs.co.uk Find out what opportunities await at Oldham Hulme Grammar School, from Nursery to Sixth Form

16 September

OPEN EVENT 29 September 4pm-7pm

MIKRON THEATRE IN THE GARDEN Tolson Museum, Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield Road, Huddersfield, HD5 8DJ, 01484 223240 kirklees.gov.uk/museums With marvellous maritime music and fathoms of fun, join Mikron as we dive into two hundred years of saving lives at sea! Organised by the Friends of Tolson & Ravensknowle. 12pm. Free.

Magic Light Pictures

24 October

STICK MAN & ROOM ON THE BROOM Huddersfield Town Hall, Corporation St, Huddersfield, HD1 2TA, 01484 225755 kirkleestownhalls.co.uk Go on an adventure this half-term with the Orchestra of Opera North! Enchanted animated tales from the creators of The Gruffalo are shown on a big screen with their wonderful scores performed live by the full symphony orchestra. It’s unmissable fun for the whole family! Time: 6pm Tickets: Adults from £12, Ages 16 and under: £1 (Concessions available)

23 September

THE ADVENTURES OF POM The Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Queen Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP, 01484 430528 thelbt.org A highly visual and tactile exploration of the Greek myth, Persephone, blending music, moving images and puppetry, that will delight children of all ages. Syngenta Cellar: 11am, 12:30pm, & 2pm. £6. 0-4 years. 1 October

SPECTACULAR SCIENCE SHOW The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax, HX1 1BP, 01422 351158, victoriatheatre.co.uk Join TV astronomer and author Mark Thompson and explore the strange and magical properties of matter with exploding elephant's toothpaste, vortex generating dustbins, dancing paste, vanishing beakers and exploding Pringle tubes! For Families. £11. 3 October

grown-ups, exploring the fun, frustration and fantasy that can be had in that magical time between awake and asleep. Syngenta Cellar: 11am, 2pm & 3.30pm. £8. 3-6 years. 19-21 October

ME & MY GIRL Stage Door Studio Theatre Workshop, Halifax Playhouse, 31 King Cross Street, Halifax, HX1 2SH, 01422 200334 stagedoorstudio.co.uk Set to a score of beautiful songs such as ‘Leaning on a Lampost’, The ‘Lambeth Walk’ & ‘The Sun Has Got His Hat On’ – it’s great for all ages. 21 October

JUNK CHILD – PRESENTED BY SCALLYWAGS THEATRE COMPANY Central Art Gallery, Old Street, Ashton under Lyne, OL6 7SG, 0161 34 2 4144 tameside.gov.uk/culture

THE HOGWALLOPS The Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Queen Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP, 01484 430528 thelbt.org Lost in Translation Circus are a artist-led contemporary company who blend high-level and dynamic circus skills within a character driven theatrical context. 7pm. £15-£10 / Under 26s £8. 14 October

FIVE MORE MINUTES – TRAVELLED COMPANIONS The Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Queen Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP, 01484 430528 thelbt.org A funny and magical show about bedtime for children and their

23 Nov-7 Jan 18

ALADDIN Theatre Royal Wakefield, Drury Lane, Wakefield, WF1 2TE, 01924 211311 theatreroyalwakefield.co.uk By Theatre Royal Wakefield's critically acclaimed team, Aladdin features fantastic sets, magical costumes and some of the best performers in the country. BSL Interpreted Performances are on 7 December, 1.30pm & 6pm. Relaxed Performance is on 30 November at 10am. Tickets: Peak – £23.50, £21, £14. Off Peak – £20.50, £18.50, £13. Concessions available.

Come and meet the rulers of the junk world, discover the secret of the trees, and help to make the sun shine again. Ages 7+. 45 mins. 11.30am & 1pm. £3. Accompanying adults are free (max 1 adult per child). 21 October

A NIGHT OF INTERNATIONAL VARIETY The Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Queen Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP, 01484 430528 thelbt.org Join Michael Jordan of the critically acclaimed High Jinx for a new evening of spellbinding entertainment. 7.30pm. £18. Children under 16 £12. 28 October

HANDA’S SURPRISE – PRESENTED BY LITTLE ANGELS THEATRE Central Art Gallery, Old Street, Ashton under Lyne, OL6 7SG, 0161 342 4144 bigimaginations.co.uk This much loved children’s book is brought to life through puppetry, dance and song. Age 2-6. 35 mins. 12noon & 1pm. £3. Accompanying adults are free (max 1 adult per child). 30 October

TALES OF BIRBAL – PRESENTED BY MASHI THEATRE Astley Cheetham Art Gallery, Trinity Street, Stalybridge, SK15 2BN, 0161 342 4144 bigimaginations.co.uk Tales of Birbal is a colourful, inventive, humorous piece, featuring music and puppetry. 6+ years. 50 mins. 11.30am & 2pm. £3. Accompanying adults are free (max 1 adult per child).

OPEN EVENT 30 September 9.30am-12.30pm

HEATHFIELD SCHOOL Oldham Road, Rishworth, West Yorkshire, HX6 4QF, 01422 823564 heathfieldjunior.co.uk OPEN MORNING 30 September For ages 3-11, from 9.30am-12.30pm. OPEN AFTERNOON 9 October For ages 3-11, from 1.15pm-5pm.

RISHWORTH SCHOOL Rishworth, West Yorkshire, HX6 4QA, 01422 822217 rishworth-school.co.uk OPEN MORNING 7 October For 11-18 year olds, from 9.30am-12.30pm. OPEN EVENING 9 October For 11-18 year olds, from 6pm-8.15pm.

HONLEY HIGH SCHOOL Station Road, Honley, Holmfirth, HD9 6QJ, 01484 506484 honleyhigh.co.uk OPEN EVENING 4 October Meet the headteacher, students, staff and Senior Team, as well as take a tour of the school. 6pm-8pm.

HIPPERHOLME GRAMMAR SENIOR SCHOOL Bramley Lane, Hipperholme, Halifax, HX3 8JE 01422 202256 hgsf.org.uk SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN EVENING 6 October From 7pm-9pm. For enquiries or to book fill out the online form.

BRADFORD GRAMMAR SCHOOL Keighley Road, Bradford, BD9 4JP, 01274 542492 bradfordgrammar.com/signup OPEN EVENT 7 October An informal day to give prospective parents and children an insight into life at BGS. Complete the online form.

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WHATS ON THIS SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 23 & 24 September

SUPERHERO WEEKEND Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Discovery Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 2NE, 01422 330069 eureka.org.uk Bring your superheroes to Eureka! and help some super caped crusaders defend the planet. Fancy dress positively encouraged. Standard entry or free with your Annual Pass.

AUTUMN

1 October

23 September – 3 November

KITE (KIDS IN THE ENVIRONMENT)

RSPB OLD MOOR RSPB Dearne Valley, Old Moor, Old Moor Lane, Dearne Valley Nature Reserve, Wombwell, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S73 0YF, 01226 751593 rspb.org.uk/oldmoor

Park Bridge Heritage, Park Bridge, Ashton-Under-Lyne OL6 8AQ, 0161 342 4144 tameside.gov.uk/culture Fun activities for 7-11years discovering and exploring nature. 10 am-12 pm

7 October Stargazing – Walks, talks and astronomy Evening event. 6-8.30pm. £6 adults (discount for children and members) 30 October Drawing Dipping and Discovery Day Self-led crafts in the activity zone. Included in reserve entry. 10am-3pm.

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23 September Mr Fox Changing of the seasons. 6 +. 7.30pm. £5 non-members. Discount available for members and children.

7 October

31 October Tuesday Tales Storytelling in the activity zone. Included in reserve entry. 10am-3pm

THE FUN PALACES Tameside Central Library and Art Gallery, Old Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside, OL6 7SG, 0161 342 4144 tameside.gov.uk/culture A radical fun packed day! There will be a huge range of FREE familyfriendly activities, with something on offer for everyone. 10.30am to 2.30pm

1 November Drawing Dipping and Discovery Day Self-led crafts in the activity zone. Included in reserve entry. 10am-3pm. 2 November The Bug Lady Showcasing a range of bugs and insects. Included in reserve entry. 10am-3pm

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS

3 November Free Friday Kids get in free. Self-led crafts in the activity zone. Included in reserve entry. 10am-3pm.

Don’t miss out on the Heritage Open Days from 7-10 September where some of the region’s oldest and most interesting buildings will open their doors to the public. With over 5,000 events taking place across the UK, there’s bound to be a place you want to visit. For more details on events go to www.heritageopendays. org.uk

7, 14, 21, 28 September

LITTLE HANDS Portland Basin Museum, Portland Place, Ashton under Lyne, OL7 0QA, 0161 343 2878 tameside.gov.uk/culture An hour of storytelling, crafts and fun for pre-schoolers. £2 per child (£1 for siblings). 10am to 11am 18 Sept-10 Nov

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SPACE PROGRAMME The National Science and Media Museum, Bradford, BD1 1NQ, 0844 856 3797 scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk Tim Peake’s historic Soyuz TMA19M is coming to Bradford and will be on display at the National Science and Media Museum. Free.

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WHATS ON THIS SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER

HALLOWEEN

26,27,28 October

HALLOWEEN GHOST TRAINS The East Lancashire Railway, Bolton Street Station, Bury, Lancashire, BL9 0EY, 0161 764 7790 eastlancsrailway.org.uk Climb on board alongside hilarious haunters, madcap monsters and giggling ghosts on the spook-tacular steam train ride! Museum entry is free, admittance to the craft workshop is £1 per child. 28-29 October

21-29 October

MAGIC LANTERN WALK

SPOOKY SCARECROW TRAIL

Thwaite Mills Watermill, Thwaite Lane, Stourton, Leeds, LS10 1RP, 0113 3782983 leeds.gov.uk/school holidays Get close to nature with a stroll around the enchanted woodland and the dark mill building on Thwaite Island. Hear traditional folk tales, make your own lantern and take a guided walk around the island. Suitable for aged 5+. Book ahead. 4.30-6pm

Lotherton Hall, Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS25 3EB, 0113 378 2959 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Can you follow the clues around the house and estate, to find all of the super spooky scarecrows? Why not pay a visit to the Witches Cottage while you’re there, or have a go at the creepy crafts on offer in the Servants’ Rooms?

20-31 October

HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE The Adventure Park, Stockeld Park, Wetherby, Yorkshire, LS22 4AN, 01937 586333 stockeldpark.co.uk Spooky adventures as Stockeld Park comes alive for the Autumn Half Term! Including Adventure Zones; Nordic Skiing; the illuminated Enchanted Forest; the Maze; and ice rink 10.30am-8.30pm

21-31 October

CREEPY CRAWLY HALF TERM Temple Newsam Estate, Temple Newsam Park, Leeds, LS15 0AE, 0113 3367460 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Spiders, bed bugs, carpet beetle, moths all want to set up home in the House and we’ll reveal how we send them packing in bug-busting activities. Make your own spooky spider or bed bug to get you in the mood for Halloween.

HALLOWEEN WEEKEND

21 October – 5 November

Lotherton Hall, Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS25 3EB, 0113 378 2959 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Get the chills meeting some ghostly characters who will be haunting the house or be transformed into your favourite monster with some face painting. Enjoy creepy crafts and the chance to win a prize for the best fancy dress.

Eureka! The National Children's Museum, Discovery Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 2NE, 01422 330069 eureka.org.uk It’s time for the creepiest event of the year. Visit Eureka! for a cauldron-full of Halloween fun for the whole family this half term. Standard entry or free with your Annual Pass.

HALLOWEEN FUN

HALF TERM

28-31 October

21 October

HALLOWEEN GHOST TRAINS

HALF TERM ISLAND ADVENTURES

Kirklees Light Railway, Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD8 9XJ, 01484 865 727 kirkleeslightrailway.com Climb aboard the Ghost Train as it takes you along the spooky line to the haunted woods! 31 October

SPOOKY SPOOKTACULAR Temple Newsam Estate, Temple Newsam Park, Leeds, LS15 0AE, 0113 3367460 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Don’t miss the annual evening Spooky Spooktacular event! Little ghost and ghouls come out to trick or treat in the darkened House and Farm! Call to book. 5-8pm 31 October

'THE SECRET SPOOKTACULAR! Portland Basin Museum, Portland Place, Ashton under Lyne, OL7 0QA, 0161 343 2878 tameside.gov.uk/culture One-hour events with a maximum of 12 participants, with Halloween games and spooky stories. The kids all have an important part to play in solving some mysteries also! 11am to 3pm (3 x 1hr shows)

Thwaite Mills Watermill, Thwaite Lane, Stourton, Leeds, LS10 1RP, 0113 3782983 leeds.gov.uk/school holidays October half term kicks off with the Orchard Explorers event with tons of apple-related fun, from pressing apples for juice, to discovering different varieties. Don’t miss the holiday activities on Tuesdays and Thursdays (1-3pm)! 21-29 October

OCTOBER HALF TERM Kirkstall Abbey, Abbey Walk, Kirkstall Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH, 0113 230 5492 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Say boo to the scarecrows hiding out across the Abbey throughout half term! Can you find them all? Follow the trail, and don’t worry, they’re not too spooky.

24-26 October

HAPPY HALLOWEEN HALF TERM Leeds Industrial Museum, Canal Road, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2QF, 0113 378 3173 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Pop in to explore Halloween superstitions and traditions, as they unlock the secrets of this ancient holiday with real Wiccans and witches from Leodis Pagan Circle. 24-27 October

HAPPY HALLOWEEN HALF TERM Abbey House Museum, Abbey Walk, Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS5 3EH, 0113 230 5492 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Make your own monster, witch or vampire or create the creepiest crawly! Join in magic potion making silly science or solve a murder mystery! 10am-12pm & 2-4pm

24-27 October

OCTOBER HALF TERM EVENTS Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH, 0113 224 3732 leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays Amazing activities, including time machine building, CSI activities and a time traveller trail! Enjoy a calm museum trip in the special Sensory Room for families with additional needs on 26 Oct (book via Eventbrite). 31 October & 2 November

MAKE, DO AND PLAY Portland Basin Museum, Portland Place, Ashton under Lyne, OL7 0QA, 0161 343 2878 tameside.gov.uk/museumsgalleries/ families Artist led craft activities for all ages. £1 per child. 11am-3pm. 31 October – 3 November

COLOUR THE CLOUDS PRESENTS GRIMM FAIRY TALES 0161 342 4144 tameside.gov.uk/culture Explore the best loved Grimm Fairy Tales, with storytelling, games and crafts. No need to book! 2.30pm3.30pm. (31 Oct at Lees Library, 1 Nov at Crompton Library, 2 Nov at Oldham Library, 3 Nov at Chadderton Library). For ages 5+. 2 November

SADDLEWORTH MUSEUM'S BIRTHDAY PARTY Saddleworth Museum, High Street, Uppermill, Saddleworth, OL3 6HS, 01457 874093 saddleworthmuseum.co.uk Celebrate the first anniversary of the museum's re-opening. Make and create decorations to get the party started and enjoy games that you've created during the afternoon's activities. 1-3pm. £3 per child (age 4-11). 1 free adult per child

Please be aware that things change so check details and suitability for your family with the provider before setting out as Families Pennines cannot be held responsible for the events we list.

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31 October