ďƒŹ Leeds’ Favourite Parenting Magazine // SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 // ISSUE 30
Moulin Roty
Piccalilly
Organics for Kids
Oskar & Ellen
Frugi Mini Rodini
Lilly & Sid
23B Brook Street Ilkley LS29 8AA 01943 968954 info@herbertandstella.co.uk www.herbertandstella.co.uk
Open Day Sat 5th Oct
1:30 - 4:30pm
WEEK Y WEEKLLLY
LOC CAL
CLAS SSES
cla asse es held ld.....
The Grammar School at Leeds
For girls and boys aged 3 to 18
Open events
2013 - 2014 9.00am to 12.00pm
Wed 18 September Sat 12 October Thu 7 November Tue 26 November Tue 18 March Wed 30 April
For further information please contact our Admissions Manager, Angela Boult T: 0113 228 5121 E: admissions@gsal.org.uk
www.gsal.org.uk
Annual Open Morning Sat 12 October 2013 Entrance Examination Fri 24 January 2014
3
rd BIRTHDAY PARTY
Win Family pass to Stockeld Park Enter in store
A fun and educational tennis play and skills programme for children from 2 years K BOO W O N
Classes in Ilkley, Harrogate, North Leeds & Wetherby For information call Caroline Buncall on 07843 342 662 • www.tennistykes.co.uk
Welcome Back… I’m sat at my desk after a summer filled with sunshine – real sunshine. I still can’t quite believe that we had actual, real life days OUT, regularly dined alfresco (without umbrellas and raincoats) and broke the seal on the sunscreen. All this in Yorkshire! There was also the small matter of the royal baby. The arrival of the new Prince was met with much excitement in the Butters house. It’s not that we are royalists, but my husband likes a flutter and ran a family sweepstake on the name and sex of the new arrival. It was a chance for me to share some tried and tested rules for naming a baby. There are three such tests I have insisted on running on all names that made it into our Top 5. Firstly, parents should carry out the Tesco Test on any name they have in mind. This involves standing at the end of any aisle in any supermarket and shouting your preferred moniker loudly. This quickly gets rid of the ridiculous names you may have on your list. While “George” sounds perfectly acceptable, “Apple” does not… unless you are in the fruit and vegetable section. The second is the Brain Surgeon Test. None of us know what the little bundle of joy you bring home from hospital will become. The world is their oyster and it’s your responsibility as a parent not to give them a name that prevents them entering certain professions. Ask yourself this. Would you want your brain operated on by a Dr Bluebell Helliwell or Dr George Windsor? Finally there’s the Full Name Test. This came about after my own mother decided to suggest a girl’s name while I was pregnant with my youngest child. “I’ve just been watching the news – a story about Gary Glitter – and there was a mention of a lovely girls name. Have you thought about Ophelia?” To be honest, I wasn’t hugely receptive to a suggestion that came in the same breath as Gary Glitter, but I gave it the Full Name Test and encouraged my mum to do the same. “Ophelia Butters. Ophelia Butters. Say it Mum” “I feel your buttocks.” “Can you hear it Mum?” “I can love. We’ll speak later.” And that early test nipped a school bully’s gift in the bud before it made it anywhere near the birth certificate. A child’s name is for life, not just for christenings and the boy George has a name that passed all three of my tests. Moreover his arrival secured Isobel the princely sum of £10 having won the family sweepstake. Not a King’s ransom but enough to bring joy to our home!
Sarah Butters
www.treasurestoys.co.uk 8 High Street, Wetherby, LS22 6LT
Tel: 01937 589187
Sat 21st September
11am – 3:30pm
FREE face painting
Lucky Dip
TWO GREAT COMPETITIONS TO ENTER
Supporting
See Treasures website or facebook for full details
What’s inside… 7
Dads Mean BUSINESS meets JUSTIN LEEMING
9
Families Review COOK
10 Ask the Dr… NITS 12 Top Tips for SECONDARY SCHOOL application 18 The BIG PACKED LUNCH debate 22 Families Leeds’ PRE-SCHOOL CLASS GUIDE 26 COMPETITIONS 27 HALLOWEEN What’s On CIRCULATION: 18,000 copies printed NEXT DEADLINE: Thursday 10th October. If you want to advertise contact adverts@familiesleeds.co.uk CONTACT US: PO BOX 403 • BARDSEY LEEDS LS17 1EP • 01937 579 065 • 07764 943 789 editor@familiesleeds.co.uk DESIGN: Justin Leeming • ww.jgl-design.co.uk jglcreate@gmail.com COVER PHOTO: A huge thank you to Anthony and Jools from Yours Truly Photography for another beautiful cover shot. Millie was photographed at their studio at The Priory near Walton getting ready for another Stir Krazy Workshop! For more on Stir Krazy’s Halloween workshops take a look at www.stirkrazykids.co.uk. To see more of Yours Truly’s work, take a look at www.yourstruly photography.co.uk PRINTED BY: Warners, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH Families Leeds® is distributed free of charge to schools, nurseries, playgroups, clubs and classes, selected retail outlets and sports centres. Distribution is across ALL LS postcodes. Families Leeds® is part of a larger group of magazines headed by Families SW London®. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care when preparing this magazine, but publishers and distributors – which include schools – cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor any consequences.
Families
NEWS…
FOMPS SUMMER FAYRE SUCCESS Congratulations to the Friends of Menston Primary School who raised £2,000 at their bi-annual school fayre. Parents and children took part in a host of activities including a Scarecrow Hunt. The best scarecrow was won by Families Leeds’ designer Justin Leeming. The rather lifelike Dr Who themed scarecrow took the title exterminating all the other entries. Well done!
Launches Online Store on 3RD BIRTHDAY It’s three years since Treasures of Wetherby opened its doors and to celebrate it’s launched an online toy shop. The website will have all your favourite toys from the Wetherby store available to purchase. Owner Zhara Armstrong says the website should make for a very busy Christmas! “People want to shop local but can’t always get into town. The website means they have the knowledge they’re supporting a local business with the flexibility that internet shopping brings. It’s the best of both worlds!” www.expresstoyshop.co.uk
JIVING for JOSEPH
Clear out your toys for…
Local dance school Danceworks is joining the effort to raise funds for Joseph Lillywhite’s charity. You may remember in the last issue we told you about his battle with cancer and Laura Jakes from Danceworks says she’s hosting a mass boogie to raise money. “We did something similar last year for Marie Curie Cancer” she explains. “We had 120 people who spent an hour learning a dance routine which we then performed together. We had 18 month old babies dancing with 70 year old grandmas. It was brilliant and I think we can get more people involved this time.” The event will be help in Leeds in November. For more information call 0113 295 0126.
Fancy a clear out? If it’s time for your little one’s toys to find a new home, look no further. Local children’s hospice Martin House has teamed up with Treasures of Wetherby to host a toy amnesty. “Bring in your toys to us here at Treasures and we’ll give you 10% off your next purchase,” explains Zhara Armstong from the Wetherby toy shop. “The toys then go to one of the Martin House shops to be sold on and raise funds for this fabulous charity.” www.treasurestoys.co.uk
Plan the Perfect Party We’re always happy to tell you about a company that’s looking to make your life easier, especially when it comes to planning your child’s party. By KT is a company specialising in creating personalised party bags and invitations to make your child’s celebration extra special. Whatever the theme or the budget, Katie says she has something for you. “I’ve had a great response from parents. People are still willing to spend money to make their lives easier when it comes to planning a party.” Katie also hires a Candy Cart to children’s parties across Leeds. www.bykt.co.uk
Making a Splash for Tommy’s Hundreds of Waterbabies took to pools across West Yorkshire to raise funds for the charity Tommy’s. The Peppa Pig Beac h Party Challenge saw babies spon sored to surf, swim and play during their swimmin g lessons with Waterbabies. Together they raised a staggering £4,000 for the charity which funds research into prematur e births and miscarriage. Congratulations! www.waterbabies.co.uk • 01943 862 802
Mama Doreen comes to Leeds… If you’re a fan of cupcakes, you’re going to love the newest business to set up shop at Moortown Corner. The fabulous Mama Doreen’s Emporium is opening its second Yorkshire store. After huge success in Harrogate this family run cake business will sell quirky cup cakes, American candy and old fashioned sweets from their store on Harrogate Road. There’s also a café serving drinks, lunch and afternoon tea. “It’s also the perfect venue for a children’s cupcake party,” says Jessica Wyatt from Mama Doreen’s. “The guests will decorate cupcakes and then enjoy Afternoon Tea with vintage crockery and scrumptious cakes!” Mama Doreen’s Emporium opens in September. www.mamadoreenscupcakes.co.uk
FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 5
Fantastic business opportunity in Garforth The Garforth Kumon Study Centre is currently for sale, offering the opportunity to take over an established business in a fantastic market. To find out more call 0800 854 714 or visit kumon.co.uk/franchise.
STAGECOACH Showcase More than 200 Stagecoach students from across Leeds have taken part in a fabulous showcase of talent at one of the region’s top theatres. The performing arts pupils from Stagecoach schools in Morley, Roundhay, Keighley and Horsforth performed a special programme of musical theatre at Leeds Town Hall. “It was a grand and iconic location for what was a memorable evening for everyone,” says Principal Ken Davison. Ken and his team are holding an Open Evening at Ralph Thoresby High School on Tuesday 17th September from 7pm if you’re interested in joining Stagecoach. www.stagecoach.co.uk
With spooky scarecrows, museum monsters, ghostly games, creepy crafts, terrifying tours and trick or treat, there’s lots of frightening family fun to make your school holidays complete.
Back To Work Help Is your child starting full time education? Are you thinking of going back to work? Local mum Isobel Wormald can help. Her bespoke CV service and networking support can help you reconnect with the skills you had before children and appreciate skills you’ve developed since. “It’s incredibly difficult to write about yourself – even more so if you’re a busy Mum with a bustling household,” explains Isobel. “My aim is to provide women with practical career advice and give you the confidence to get back into the workplace.” 07771 986 386 • icwormald@gmail.com
A bbey H ouse M useum £6.70* Abbey House Museum K irkstall Abbey Abbey FREE Kirkstall L eeds A rt G allery FREE Leeds Art Gallery L eeds C ity M useum FREE Leeds City Museum Leeds eeds Discovery Discovery Centre Centre FREE L eeds IIndustrial ndustrial Museum Museum £6.70* Leeds L otherton H all E state £15* Lotherton Hall Estate T emple N ewsam H ouse and and Farm Farm £15. 5 50* 0 Temple Newsam House T hwaite M ills Watermill Watermill £6.70* Thwaite Mills * for a family ticket admitting up to two adults and three children
6
FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October
The ➚
Diary of a
IMPERFECT MUM…
Families Leeds’ columnist Claire Bottomley ponders the importance of play in her son’s life.
My four-year-old son has written a book. Several, actually. The volumes of his work line (litter) our living room, and we wouldn’t dream of (be allowed to) throw them away. However, they do not actually make any sense, or indeed contain any real words or letters. He’s highly industrious – tearing, folding, sellotaping – then when he’s bound the tome, he scribbles away in it – his own approximation of grown-up joined-up writing. Reams of the stuff. Well, like any imperfect mum, if it keeps him quiet for half-anhour, I’m happy. But I did find myself wondering, as I shelved yet another of his unfathomable novels, if we should be channelling his enthusiasm for the written word more productively – learning to read, say? He shows willing when it comes to his school books, concentrating on sounding out the letters and words, but a bit more of the dedication he gives to his own personal projects wouldn’t go amiss. As I pondered, there was a new development. He turned his attention to music and started composing symphonies instead. Suddenly he was scrawling quavers and semi-quavers onto staff lines with the intensity of Mozart himself. As I stared at a handful of notes dancing around a page, I couldn’t help but be impressed by the look of them, and before
I knew it my own imagination was running away with itself. Should we book violin lessons? Has he a gift? But if I could read music as I can English I would not be thus distracted. At the back of my mind, instinct told me that formal musical instruction at the age of not-yet-five would be met with frustration and despondency. When he tells us he’s ‘working’ – hunched frowning over his toy laptop while distractedly shuffling an imaginary mouse from side to side – he’s not actually sending emails. When he’s running an old bit of pipe across the edge of the lawn with a steady, patient air, he’s not really strimming it. When he serves us some leaves, carefully delivered between twig tongs from his BBQ, we’d be wise not to eat them. And when he’s writing books and music, he isn’t really. He is a child captivated by the world around him. His study is of us, grown-ups; his subject matter the things we use. It has nothing and everything to do with learning. So, there’ll be plenty of time for literature, music, information technology, gardening and catering. But for now, one of the most important things he needs to do is play.
Photo: PHIL KEIGHLEY
CV Writing Executive Pr le Summaries Application Form Completion 1:1 Interview Practice Job Search Advice
CAREER PLANNING
If you are a Mum managing a busy household and are looking to change jobs or simply get back into the workplace, then I can help you! I am a local mum with over ten years of HR and Recruitment experience. I recently started my own business providing career planning services to busy mums who are short on time.
Call me for a chat about how I could help you! 07771 986 386
dadsmean
{BUSINESS} IIIn a damp cellar, somewhere near Ilkley,II IIJustin Leeming is busy working on his latest piece of art.II IIIt’s a large oil on canvas, inspired by the Japanese filmII II‘My Neighbour Totoro’ and will eventually sit on the onlyII IIspare bit of wall left in the Leeming household.II
icwormald@gmail.com uk.linkedin.com/in/isobelwormald
beautiful handmade cake pops baked to order fun themed party pops
the new way to eat cake helen@popaliciouscakepops.co.uk
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“My kids love this cartoon,” says Justin who is Dad to seven year old Elliott and five year old Lucinda. “They’re thrilled because they’re going to be in the painting! They’ll take centre stage, sat on the bough of a tree fishing alongside the magical Totoro.” Every wall of Justin’s house is filled with a piece of art he’s created and now he’s decided to make that into a business. He’s spent the past 20 years painting portraits of the famous and the not so famous as well as taking commissions from those who’ve seen his work. However after two decades working as a Graphic Designer, Justin has now decided it’s time to make his passion his full time job. “I’m looking forward to spending 35 hours a week in front of a canvas,” he explains. “Until now I’ve been painting and creating in my spare time. That’s been late at night after a busy day at work. Now I’ll be working to my own deadlines and having the time and freedom to meet them. That’s exciting.” In addition to the commissioned paintings Justin offers, he can also create magical prints which place your child alongside their favourite characters or heros. It’s at this point I should declare something of an interest. Justin is not only a talented artist, he’s also Families Leeds’ designer and godfather to my youngest daughter. As a result, my children have benefited first hand from his work. Not a birthday goes by without them being transformed into Hannah Montana or a beautiful Princess. A fantastic print of my eldest daughter Isobel, aged three, alongside her then
‘best friends’ Charlie and Lola still sits on the wall of our playroom. While next to it is a four year old Eliza, cupped in the hands of a friendly Gruffalo. These are all creations from their Uncle Justin. “It’s great to see children react to seeing themselves as their favourite superhero or sat alongside a Princess. These bespoke prints are really popular either as cards, posters or invitations. Until now I’ve not been able to meet demand but doing this full time means I’ll be able to make a lot more children smile!” Justin is expecting his first Christmas as a self employed artist to be busy and says parents looking to commission family paintings or character prints for their children should get in touch early. They take time to create and there’s only so many commissions he’s able to accept. However he says he’s excited to capture the lives of local families on canvas and see his work hanging in even more homes. “I love painting and designing posters and there’s no more free space in our house! I reckon there must be plenty of walls across Yorkshire crying out for an original piece of artwork and I’m looking forward to producing it.” To discuss a commission or character print, email Justin at jglcreate@gmail.com • www.jgl-design.co.uk
CELEBRATING
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TINY SIGNERS WHERE: Moor Allerton Library
WHEN: Tuesday at 10.15am
||Signing Sam has turned up for class looking like he’s just jumped out of bed.|| ||Thankfully the dozens of children who have come along to this mornings drop in|| ||session at Moor Allerton Library don’t seem to care. They’re more interested in|| ||finding out what class leader Rachel French has in store for them today.||
I Teach your baby the enjoyment of water! Sing and play through our structured awards programme and see your baby progress to a confident little swimmer. Babies from 6 weeks old to 6 years old.
Swims at... Batley l Ossett l Leeds l Bradford l York l Harrogate l Pocklington
For details call 01757 229880 or visit babyswimmers.co.uk
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T may be just after breakfast, but there’s a teddy bear’s picnic planned and everyone’s invited, as long as they’re willing to sing and sign. “Children are visual learners,� explains Rachel who is a trained Speech Therapist. “They like to touch and see things. Some children aren’t developed enough to make sounds. We forget that speaking is quite complex and teaching them signing allows them to make their needs known.� The session begins with a welcome from the Babies Can Sign mascot, Signing Sam. He’s about to turn 7 himself but still loves joining in. Under the guidance of Rachel, the group sings about teddies bouncing on beds, and going down to the woods today. All the songs’ keywords are signed by Rachel who has the whole class watching and copying. These children are learning a new language without even knowing it. “To me, this is like swimming. It’s a life skill,� explains Rachel. “Its great to go to a music class or a dance class, but learning to sign is a skill you’ll have for the rest of your life.� Babies Can Sign are expanding their Tiny Signers sessions to Moor Allerton from the new term. Rachel says parents like the flexibility of a drop in session as it means they don’t have the financial commitment of a full term of fees. Today’s full house shows they’re proving popular – even when the sun shines.
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There’s a juice and biscuit break in the middle of the hour long session. It’s a chance for children and their teddies to recharge their batteries and for parents to chat to Rachel as the kettle boils. Today she takes the time to speak to a concerned mum who is seeking more formal signing support for her toddler. It’s a reminder that these sessions, while lots of fun, offer some children the means of communication with their family and friends. They also offer parents support when they most need it. After refreshments for the children, it’s time for the teddy bears to have their picnic. Out come the cups and saucers and on goes Rachel’s favourite song as the children eagerly sign about picnic time for teddy bears. As the group sings about the ‘tired little teddy bears’ there are yawns all around and it’s time for Signing Sam to wave goodbye. Join Rachel at her new Chapel Allerton session from Tuesday 17th September. For more Tiny Signers sessions look at www.tinysigners.co.uk
COOK WHAT: COOK
WHERE: Moortown Corner, Leeds LS17 6QD
||The holidays are over and we’re all back to school, work|| ||and ferrying your team from one after school activity to|| ||another. Wouldn’t it be nice to have some help with the|| ||tea. After several reader recommendations we’ve decided|| ||to put frozen food specialist COOK in North Leeds to the|| ||taste test. Can I fool the Families Leeds editorial team into|| ||thinking I’ve cooked from scratch for a week?|| MONDAY , We r’ e eating... SEABASS LINGUINE
THURSDAY
We kick start with a healthy option from the COOK range. This is two beautiful pieces of seabass on a bed of asparagus and linguine, all cooked in a lobster bisque. It’s a little decadent for a Monday but Mr B is fooled into thinking I’ve treated him. CLEAN PLATE? YES ✔
The girls are curry fans so this is great as a mid week treat. They’ve no idea there’s hidden cauliflower in there but I do! Served it with rice and a warm pitta bread and it went down a treat. There was much disappointment when I broke the news that it was all gone. CLEAN PLATE? Yes, In fact there wasn’t quite enough for both girls. ✔
Kids eat... CHICKEN KORMA
TUESDAY
FRIDAY , We r’ e ALL eating...
We’re eating... PAD THAI & CHICKEN
SWEET AND SMOKEY CHICKEN BAKE
NOODLE LAKSA
& ETON MESS
After a few weeks of not so healthy eating over the summer, it’s time to get back on the 5:2 diet we’ve been on since March. COOK do a great range of ‘Skinny Pots’ which come in between 150 and 400 calories. These two are new to the range and do not disappoint. Mr B is late so we eat separately and he doesn’t suspect a thing. He does comment that the food tastes too good to be low calorie. CLEAN PLATE? YES ✔ Kids eat... CHICKEN GOUJONS
I’m a little picky when it comes to serving nugget type products to the children, but wanted to give these a try. They’re made from breast meat so they’re sold not just as children’s food, but also as nibbles for the whole family to dip and eat. The girls ate theirs in wraps with salad and asked for seconds. There were suspicions about whether I’d made them but I quickly got out the homework. CLEAN PLATE? YES ✔ WEDNESDAY We’re eating... SPANISH CHICKEN
It’s midweek and I’m attempting to reconnect with the Spanish summer holiday I left a few weeks ago. The combination of paprika chicken, chorizo and beans takes me back to Murcia but the washing up brings me right back home. Good portions and very tasty. CLEAN PLATE? YES ✔
Having survived the first week back at school, it’s good to settle down as a family and eat together. The Family Grub range from COOK is enough for 2 adults and 2 small children and means you can serve up a family meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Also in the range is Lemon Chicken Risotto, Chicken Chow Mein and Chicken Tikka Masala Bake. Great value at £10. We finish the week with COOK’s bestselling Eton Mess which is a huge hit and although its something we like to make ourselves at the weekend, it’s a real treat to have it on a Friday night. CLEAN PLATE? YES ✔ FAMILIES LEEDS VERDICT:
The COOK menu is great and takes the stress out of meal times when you’re juggling work and children’s after school commitments. There’s a great range whether you’re watching the calories or feeding a family. Graham from the North Leeds store is friendly and helpful and even offers home delivery after ordering online or by phone. I think we’re all dreading going back to home cooking next week! Join Graham for a Tasting Day on Saturday 14th September. See page 19 for a £5 off voucher to spend instore in September. www.cookfood.net
10
FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October
ASK the DOCTOR? Nits… Did you know nearly 10% of children at your little one’s school have nits? As pupils head back to their classrooms this September, we talk to our resident Children’s Hospital Dr Georgina Hudson about the best ways to treat the problem. We challenge you to read this article without scratching! What are ‘nits’? ‘Nits’ is the common expression used to describe head lice. These are tiny little grey, brown creatures about the size of a sesame seed. They have six legs with little claws at the ends, which they use to attach themselves to strands of hair. Basically anyone who has hair can get nits regardless of whether it is clean or dirty. Children however, most commonly get nits as they spread easily amongst this age group. How are they spread? Children can pick up ‘nits’ from their friends at school or at soft play centres – basically anywhere where they are playing in close proximity to each other. The ‘nits’ cannot leap or fly, they have to crawl from contact to contact. They can cause an itchy scalp, as they bite the scalp to draw blood to feed on. They lay their eggs and these attach to single hairs, then just over a week later the egg hatches. The white remains of the eggs can sometimes be seen in the hair. This is the actual ‘nit’ and where the commonly used term for head lice comes from. A couple of weeks later, this louse will then lay eggs of it’s own and the cycle continues. Interestingly, only half of all cases cause an itchy scalp. It is therefore important to intermittently check your child’s hair for nits. Nits can often be mistaken for dandruff. If they are tricky to remove from
the hair, this is a sign it could be nits and a closer look is needed. How to diagnose head lice? If a live louse is found it’s official. Head lice can be diagnosed. If you suspect your child may have lice; they may be itching around their ears or in the nape of the neck, it is best to comb through the hair when wet to detect any nits or lice. Wash the hair with shampoo and condition, detangle the hair with a normal comb, then comb through the hair section by section with a fine toothed ‘nit comb.’ It is important to comb from the root to the tip of the hair. Wiping the comb between every stroke to check for any lice. If no lice are found, repeat this again to double check. Head lice is only diagnosed if a live louse is found. How is head lice treated? If live lice are found it’s important to check everyone else’s hair in the household, using the method above. It is also important to inform your child’s school or nursery. Commence treatment as soon as any lice are found. Thorough ‘wet combing’ as described above is effective at removing the lice and should be carried out as soon as any lice are identified, then again 5, 9 and 13 days later. This can be time consuming if the hair is very long or curly, but it is the most effective treatment, as lice are becoming resistant to commonly used insecticides used in shampoos
and lotions. It is a more effective way of removing the nits and the lice, to try and break the cycle. Also be aware that your child could become reinfected whilst treatment is taking place. Shampoos are not effective. Your pharmacist will be able to recommend a brand of lotion or spray formula to use. The instructions will vary depending on which brand you use. Remember, treatment is only needed if live lice are found. The lotion or spray has to be carefully applied to the entire length of hair, left on for the designated time and then a nit comb is usually provided to remove the dead lice. The treatment will then have to be repeated usually a week later, as the initial application will not have killed the eggs. Remember to check the whole family and treat if needed. If the problem persists or if you have any concerns see your GP for further help. If you think a baby under 6 months old may have lice, you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have allergies always contact your GP to ensure appropriate treatment is commenced. Useful website: www.thehairforce.co.uk
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E: enquiries@headstartlanguages.co.uk T: 0845 5194881 www.headstartlanguages.co.uk www.headstar tlanguages.co.uk
Children Launch Grand Depart Countdown Pupils from schools across Yorkshire took to their bikes in Leeds City Centre to begin the countdown to the Tour de France Grand Depart. The largest annual sporting event in the world comes to Leeds city centre on 5th July 2014 and excitement is already building amongst young fans. “It’s so exciting,” says Ruari Waterworth from St Joseph’s Catholic Primary. “It’s going to be amazing to see them cycling through Otley and to cheer them on.” Children from St Joseph’s were joined by pupils from Beeston Primary, Horsforth West End, Richmond House and The Grammar School at Leeds. www.letouryorkshire.com
Maths Improves with Pupils have improved their achievement in Maths by up to 30% studying with after school support Explore Learning, according to a new survey from the University of Reading. It found that the children who attended the support centres increased their confidence, overcame shyness and were more willing to put their hand up in class. Parents say they also noticed the children becoming more independent learners, and being more willing to try to tackle problems without assistance. Find your nearest Explore Learning Centre on Harrogate Rd, Moortown • 0113 821 4519 • www.explorelearning.co.uk
OP EN DA YS S THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL AT LEED uk .org. .gsal www Saturday 12th October Wednesday 18th September & 9am – 12noon FULNECK SCHOOL www.fulneckschool.co.uk m – 12noon Saturday 28th September • 9.30a MOORLANDS SCHOOL www.moorlands-school.co.uk ber – Morning Friday 4th and Saturday 5th Octo ASHVILLE COLLEGE www.ashville.co.uk – 4.30pm Saturday 5th October – 1.30pm
Open Day: Wednesday 9th October 2-7pm
Camembear given‘Welcome to Yorkshire’ boost A French language programme, created by a Leeds mum of 3 has been given the seal of approval by the Welcome to Yorkshire team. Learning French with Camembear is the brainchild of Leanne Jefferson from Boston Spa. She’s devised an easy to follow teaching programme for nursery and primary school children using the cute, cuddly Camambear to help. “Welcome to Yorkshire are endorsing ‘Learn French with Camembear’ as it’s a way of leaving a legacy in Yorkshire long after the Grand Depart has departed! I’m delighted.” For more about the programme look at www.headstart languages.co.uk 0845 519 4881
Happy and confident and their parents are too Richmond House School is an independent preparatory school providing an excellent education for boys and girls aged 3-11 years old, within a happy, caring, family environment.
Visit www.rhschool.org for more information
U Top mark of excellent in all categories in March 2013 ISI Inspection U Outstanding 11+ exam success U Small class sizes U 10 acres of sports fields U Specialist teaching in a wide range of subjects U Pre and after school care from 7.30am–6pm U Holiday clubs 170 Otley Road | Leeds LS16 5LG | 0113 2752670 enquiries@rhschool.org
12
FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October
Applying for SECONDARY SCHOOL It may feel like a lifetime away, but if your child is beginning Year 6, it’s time to start thinking about where they’ll be going to High School. Applications opened across Leeds over the summer and the deadline is only weeks away. Here’s some advice on what to do to make sure you get a place at your chosen school. WHEN DO I NEED TO APPLY? If your child is moving into Year 7 next year, you’ll have been sent a letter over the summer advising you of your nearest secondary school. You have until 31st October do your research and decide if that school is the best for your child, or if you‘d prefer to apply elsewhere. You can submit your application online or by post. If you can, submit online as you get an automatic acknowledgment of receipt – which you should keep as proof of application – and you’ll receive your offer by email much quicker than those who applied by post. If you do apply by post, make sure you send it by Recorded Delivery so you have proof of postage. WHAT CHOICES DO I HAVE FOR MY CHILD? The letter will have advised of your nearest school but that may not be the school you want your child to go to. Now it’s time for you to do your research and see what’s out there. You’re entitled to apply to 5 different schools. They may have different application criteria and you’ll be offered the school for which your child best qualifies. Take the time to go to Open Days over the next few weeks and ask your child’s primary school for advice about which secondary school would best suit their skills. You can also check the school’s latest OFSTED report at www.ofsted.gov.uk. Don’t be tempted to simply apply for only ONE school. If you don’t get that school, you
could be offered a place at a school you don’t want. Take the time to research all the options. WHAT KINDS OF SCHOOLS ARE THERE IN LEEDS? Aside from the private sector which isn’t involved in this process, there are Maintained Schools and Academies. Within the Maintained sector are Community Schools, Foundation Schools and Voluntary Schools. If you are applying to a Community or Voluntary Controlled school, the local authority decides which children are offered a place. If you are applying to a Foundation or Voluntary Aided school, the individual school’s governing body will make the decision. That’s the same for Academies and Free schools too. You’re best to take a look at the school’s own website where you’ll find a copy of the school’s admissions policy. You can access these via the main local authority website www.leeds.gov.uk. Voluntary Aided schools – these are mostly faith schools – require you to fill out a supplementary form. Whichever type of school your child is applying for, the local authority will co-ordinate the offer letters.
2014. You should accept your offer even if it isn’t the school you want for your child as it guarantees them a secondary school place. WHAT IF I DON’T GET THE SCHOOL I WANT FOR MY CHILD? You have 2 options. You can put your child’s name on the waiting list of your preferred school, and you can appeal the decision made. If you are planning to apply to a popular High School it’s worth spending the next few months researching the appeals process. If you are looking for advice about going on a waiting list or appeal at a Community or Voluntary Controlled secondary school, you can contact the Choice Advisor at the Parent Partnership Service on 0113 395 0596. This includes support from volunteers when attending appeal panel hearings. If you are appealing a decision from a Foundation, Voluntary Aided or Academy school then you should contact the school directly for advice. You may want to contact the Advisory Centre for Education who can give you free impartial advice on the appeals process (www.ace-ed.org.uk). All appeals and waiting list submissions need to be made by 28th March 2014.
WHEN WILL I FIND OUT WHICH SCHOOL MY CHILD HAS BEEN OFFERED? You’ll receive an offer email on 3rd March 2014, or if you’ve applied by post within a few days. You’ll be asked to accept that offer by 28th March
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FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 13
Settling into SECONDARY School This September will see thousands of nervous children across Yorkshire take their first steps into Senior School. That’s not to mention nervous parents who are left at the school gates wondering what exactly happens inside those large imposing buildings. Alicia Coad from Ashville College has some tips on helping your child settle in.
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OU no longer know your child’s friendly class teacher. You’ve not yet met your child’s friends and some of the children going into the building look bigger than you, let alone your child! Welcome to the world of Senior School parenting. Managing the transition from primary to senior school can be just as daunting for parents as children in those first few weeks of Senior School. Your child may well be nervous and apprehensive, which is only natural, but at no point will they realise that you too are probably equally concerned! UNDERSTAND THE SCHOOL Every school needs to establish good pupil-teacherparent relationships. It is important that you as a parent understand how the school operates. Children can often come home with tales that don’t quite add up and you as a parent need to be confident that you can get to the bottom of such tales and know who to turn to. Each school does it differently, with heads of year or heads of house or form tutors taking on the role of being the first point of contact for parents. Make sure you know who yours is and how to contact them, whether it be by email, phone or a face to face meeting. OFFER REASSURANCE Most children take at least a few weeks to settle into a new school and it is important to remind them of this when they are in a mild panic or a shell shocked silence at the end of the first day. If they do confide in you about problems with a certain teacher or pupil, listen to what they say but try not to let them know how concerned (or annoyed!) you are about the situation. It takes time for new friendships to form and for teacher-pupil relationships to develop, and children need reminding of this. Common worries about starting secondary school are being bullied, not making friends, getting lost, homework, the journey to and from school, getting into trouble, and struggling with the work. Most children will worry about at least one of these and being able to remind them that it’s only ‘normal’ will help curtail their worries.
TEN TOP TIPS • Encourage early nights, healthy eating and drinking plenty of water. • Invite new friends over for tea so you can get to know them and their parents. • Monitor what they are choosing for lunch, and if necessary supplement the evening meal with extra fruit and vegetables. • Keep an eye on how long they are taking to do homework. Taking longer is just as big a problem as taking too little time. • Make sure you are aware of who the first point of contact at the school is should any problems arise. • Set aside time with your child to empty and repack the school bag for the next day. • Agree where homework will be done, make sure it’s the same place daily. • Establish a homework routine, e.g. is it immediately after school, after tea or later on in the evening? • Remember you are probably more worried than they are!
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FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October
Tom Palmer with pupils from Yeadon and Otley
LEEDS SCHOOLS show they can learn together Childrens Childrens Entertainment Ent ert ainment Workshops & W oorkshops
ALL EXPERIENCES ICA GIC A GI MA S NS ON IO SI AS L OCCCCA AL R FO
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The head of OFSTED Sir Michael Wilshaw has called on private schools to reach out to surrounding state schools to share facilities, extra classes and support. The Grammar School at Leeds has spent the past year expanding its link with local primaries and says it’s schools relations programme benefits everyone. Here are just a few of the days GSAL pupils shared with pupils from around Leeds. II“PEER TO PEER RECOMMENDATION IS IMPORTANT”II
T: 01133 227988
E: inf info@makeawishentertainment.co.uk o@makeawishentt eert ainment.co.uk W: www.makeawishentertainment.co.uk www.makeawishentt eert ainment.co.uk
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Getting boys to fall in love with reading can be something of a challenge, but it’s a challenge local author Tom Palmer is taking on with his series of sport themed books. Tom visited GSAL last term to talk to Year 5 pupils from the school and they were joined by children from Yeadon Westfield, Otley Westgate, Wigton Moor, Talbot Primary, Allerton and St Joseph’s Catholic Primary. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to work with other schools and meet an author who inspires children’s love of literature,” says Lisa Piotrowicz, acting Head at Yeadon Westfield. Tom talked about his football themed mysteries – Football Academy, Foul Play and The Squad – and the pupils were able to ask questions of the award winning local author. There were also activities, quizzes and even a penalty shoot out. “Although the session focused on football and reading, I enjoyed talking to the children about everything they like to read,” says Tom. “I love seeing them share their reading tips with each other. Peer to peer recommendation is really important.”
Children greatly enjoy the shared creative, “ learning and sporting activities we offer. They gain confidence and mutual understanding by mixing and working with pupils with other schools.
”
HELEN CLAPHAM, Director of External Relations The Grammar School At Leeds
Gledhow Primary pupils on French Day
II“WE’RE ENCOURAGINGII II LOCAL PRIMARYII II SCHOOLS TO TEACHII II FRENCH”II As Leeds counts down to Le Grand Depart, GSAL hosted a French Day to immerse primary school pupils in the culture, the language and the food! The pupils from seven local primary schools joined with Year 5 children from GSAL and dressed in red, white and blue for the day as they learnt songs, took part in playground games and enjoyed croissants and crepes! “Today is the first of what we hope will become an annual French Day,” says Esther Saurel, Senior School Head of French at GSAL. “It’s about taking the fear out of learning languages and making
Maths Challenge Winners Greenside Primary
children realise they can play and sing without understanding everything. We hope it will encourage primary schools to engage in teaching French.” The highlight of the day for many was an all French performance by the Flying Theatre Company of the play ‘Bon Voyage’. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to meet native French speakers and enjoy an introduction to French culture,” says Helen Miller from Sacred Heart Catholic Primary in Ilkley. “A fun day like this will enthuse the pupils about language learning.”
II“WE MADE PUDSEYII II PROUD BY WINNINGII II THE MATHSII II CHALLENGE!”II For the past 5 years The Grammar School at Leeds has hosted a primary Maths Challenge and last year, Greenside Primary School in Pudsey were crowned champions. 90 schools across Leeds took part in the preliminary rounds with 45 making the semi final. The challenge is the brainchild of GSAL maths teacher Pat Brotherton. Teams of 4 children from the final 20 schools battled it
out to take top place. Greenside pipped Richmond House to the title with Ashlands Primary in Ilkley and Collingham Lady Hastings coming in joint 3rd. “The children did extremely well,” says John Alexander from Greenside Primary. “They have kept up the reputation of the school and made everyone in Pudsey proud.” The competition is also an opportunity for GSAL to talent spot gifted mathematicians and in some cases offer bursaries for future study at the school. Semi finals are underway for the 2013/4 challenge with the final scheduled for November. www.gsal.org.uk
Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities t Courses mapped to the National Curriculum. t Adapts to the individual needs of your child. t Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week. t Award-winning tuition - voted Education Investor Supplementary Education Provider of the Year. “Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.” Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.
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We’ll Grow our own PUPILS
IIAs Froebelian School celebrates its centenary, Headteacher John Tranmer tellsII IISarah Butters the school’s focus in the future is on taking pupils from birth.II
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HEN I hear the phrase ‘grow your own’, I think of ripe tomatoes and plump marrows. I don’t think of school children. However, when John Tranmer talks about growing his own, he’s talking pupils of the future here at Froebelian. The intimate prep school has been educating children in Leeds for 100 years but as the celebrations continue this centenary year, there are plans to offer a Froebelian education to children from a few months old. “It’s no secret that we’d like to run our own nursery,” explains Mr Tranmer who has been at the school for 20 years. “The demand for a quality nursery is there. We’d want it to be about preparing young children for formal education. This is 2 year olds in directed, constructive play. The idea is we’ll grow our own pupils!” The plans are a fitting way to celebrate the school’s centenary year. Since Miss Hoe first welcomed pupils into her home on New Road Side back in 1913 Froebelian has been educating children in Horsforth. Things have changed since then – there’s been a re-location to Clarence Road and the numbers have swelled to 200 – but the family ethos remains. Today’s Froebelian prides itself on that ethos and the high level of academic achievement its pupils attain. It sits 9th in the prestigious Sunday Times Top 100 Prep Schools in the UK, making it the highest ranked school in Leeds. It’s a title prospective parents are attracted by and John Tranmer and his team are very proud of. “We do have a distinct academic edge which means we can put our hands on our hearts and say your children WILL reach their academic potential here,” he explains. “That’s not to say that other
schools can’t achieve results, but Froebelian is a risk free option.” After 20 years at the helm, Mr Tranmer says he is approaching being the school’s very own Mr Chips. He’s seen the school through many changes but says his most recent challenge has been making sure the school and its pupils have the very latest technology on which to learn. The iPad suite, equipped with 16 tablets was introduced a few years ago and is helping educate across the ages. While nursery children use the iPads for letter formation, the Year 6 pupils are making their own videos. It’s a far cry from the ‘technology’ on offer when Mr Tranmer first came to Froebelian. “When I joined the school we had 2 BBC micro computers. Now we have interactive white boards in every classroom, 50 PCs and our iPad suite. I expect things to move on again over the next decade.” What’s remained the same is the demand for places at this popular prep school. Already there are 30 children registered for the 2014/5 academic year, and only 24 places. What has changed is that interested parents are putting off the decision and in many instances, losing the chance of a Froebelian education. “Because we take in most of our children at three, the parents who chose to leave enquiring until Reception year are disappointed. On the other hand we do have ladies with bumps in their tummies asking for their children to be registered! Our message is, if you like the sound of what we do, you are never too early!” Froebelian School welcomes children from 3 – 11 years old. www.froebelian.com
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ew Term!
FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 17
HELP YOUR CHILD stick to their STUDIES… Perseverance is a skill we’d all like our children to have. We ask after school study specialists Kumon how to teach your little ones to stick to their studies, even when the going gets tough. Thomas A. Edison is famous for saying “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” He was of course talking about the invention of the light bulb, and how many times he had to view not succeeding as feedback, rather than failure, to persevere until he was successful. Children need to cultivate a number of skills on their educational journey, including perseverance and strength of character. If they can develop the perseverance of Mr Edison, they will be able to give their all, remain positive in the light of challenges and learn not to give-up when faced with setbacks. If a child is to get the most out of their education, they will need to develop determination and persist when their studies get tough. Parents can aid children in the development of these skills in a number of ways and help their children draw on their own independent learning skills.
Join us to celebrate our Centenary and visit THE FROEBELIAN SCHOOL
OPEN OPE EN DAY DA AY Y
Here are a few tips for helping your child develop perseverance: Give children ample opportunities to use their own initiative Allowing children the time and space to work through problems independently and develop their own strategies will help them take responsibility for their own learning. Giving children the time to reflect on their mistakes and develop appropriate solutions will mean they have the confidence to work without constantly being dependent on input from their peers or adults. Help children become resilient The ability to bounce back from failures is crucial, as a child’s expectation of their own academic ability may not always be met. Encourage children to draw the positives from any given situation instead of focussing on the negatives, and make a plan of action for moving forwards. Encourage children to have a voice Children who are able to express their thoughts and opinions clearly may be better prepared to contribute to decisions about the learning they want to undertake. They may also be more likely to join in classroom discussions, which should help them to develop a more positive attitude to school life. Outline the link between learning goals and outcomes Showing children that setting learning targets will help them achieve their desired goals and should aid them in developing a disciplined attitude towards their school work. A mix of daily, short-term and long-terms goals in several subject areas will also give children an extra incentive to focus on their studies.
Visit www.froebelian.com “THE BEST INVESTMENT YOU’LL EVER MAKE FOR YOUR CHILD”
Kumon programmes give children the chance to develop perseverance and a positive attitude to study as they maximise their ability and begin to realise their true potential. For more information about the Kumon Free Assessment at your local centre, visit www.kumon.co.uk.
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FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October
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PACKED LUNCH DEBATE G I B
IIA recent report has recommended that head teachers BAN packed lunches toII IIincrease the uptake and quality of school dinners. The School Food Plan whichII IIwas backed by Education Secretary Michael Gove says that packed lunchesII IIare nearly always less nutritious. We asked a local head teacher and someII IILeeds mums to give their views on a possible ban.II
“School dinners are our only option” Jane Disley, Headmistress at Richmond House School says making sure every child has eaten a healthy lunch is her priority. “Many parents believe that they can give their child a healthier diet with a packed lunch but the reality can often be that children return home with an unpeeled banana and half eaten sandwiches. Some parents also feel that packed lunches ensure that they can give their children food that they know they will eat. Several schools across the country have healthy eating policies in place which ban fizzy drinks, confectionery and salty snacks but there are still a high proportion who allow these. At Richmond House, school lunches are the ONLY option. By providing a meal for all of our pupils we can ensure that every child has a healthy, balanced and filling lunch. To me, the priority is that every child eats a good meal and doesn’t go hungry. School lunches allow staff to monitor what the children eat and offer children a relaxed, social setting to eat their lunch rather than a rushed meal. We follow the Government’s nutritional guidelines for schools and all of our meals are home cooked on site. Our kitchen staff work hard to ensure a varied and balanced diet. As well as our main meal of the day, we always have a jacket potato or pasta option and a salad bar to ensure there is something everyone likes. Fruit and water are also always available. It is important that children keep hydrated. I believe a healthy lunch aids a child’s performance at school. Eating a nutritious meal at lunchtime gives pupils more energy and helps them adopt positive habits for life. I’m not saying that crisps and chocolate should be banned from school completely. On special occasions and celebrations we have treats but we offer tasty, healthy alternatives all year round to keep the children satisfied.”
“I know what she likes so I know she eats everything I give her” Rachel Swann is mum to three girls at Carr Manor Primary in North Leeds. She sends them all to school with a packed lunch. “I decided to provide packed lunches for my three children because they didn’t like the food they were being served at school and were not eating enough at lunchtime. My three girls all eat different foods. My eldest takes a Thermos with soup, baked beans or spaghetti bolognese. She also takes bread. My younger ones take cheese, ham or tuna sandwiches. Sometimes I pack breadsticks or pitta with hummus or soft cheese. They all take at least one portion of fruit or vegetables. I bake a batch of buns or cookies so I know exactly what has gone into them. A balanced diet includes cakes in moderation. I think their lunch is more nutritious that the meals they were eating at school. For example, my daughter used to chose a meal, not like it and so left it. I know what she likes, so I know she eats everything I give her. I don’t think packed lunches should be banned because for many low income families it’s the way they can best afford to feed their children. The cost of school dinners far outweighs what I spend on creating a packed lunch. However, I think that it’s right for schools to have sensible guidelines. Banning any form of confectionary from lunch boxes permanently isn’t healthy for a children’s long term food perception, especially when school dinners quite rightly include traditional pudding options. From my experience as a weight loss hypnotherapist, many women’s food issues stem from childhood where they were told not to eat certain foods which they now binge on.”
FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 19
What you’re saying... “My daughter always has a healthy packed lunch with fruit every day. She never takes crisps or chocolate. Why would I pay for a weekly shop and then fork out ÂŁ10 a week on school dinners she won’t eat?â€? @chadwickneehall via Twitter
“Packed lunches should NOT be banned, provided they are monitered by lunch staff. They are at my daughters’ school. Some children just don’t like school lunches and leave most of them. Also if they are left to select their own lunch every day they can end up eating the same thing. At least with a packed lunch parents are in control. Leftovers go home in the lunchbox so it’s easy to see what’s been left. Hungry children don’t concentrate and it can also affect behaviour, However I am in favour of banning crisps and chocolate in packed lunches.� Sally, mum of 2 from Ilkley via Facebook
“With a packed lunch I am able to monitor portion size. At my children’s school the portions for 8 – 11 year old were quite small. I knew what they’d had for lunch but would have no idea how much or how little they had eaten. With packed lunches they have to bring home everything – including the food that’s not been eaten – so I know exactly what they’ve had. Also it’s cheaper for me to cook at home and give my children a packed lunch. Cost and budgeting is really important to my family.� Elizabeth, mum of 2 from Scholes via email
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Do you have Second Child
SYNDROME? With your first child it was all about birth plans, pureed butternut squash and baby massage. Things change second time round as Families Leeds’ columnist Claire Bottomley observes. S I stood in the playground last July, waving my oldest child off into his classroom, I looked down at his baby brother, sporting a baby-grow emblazoned with the words Santa is On His Way. I realised then that first children and their siblings get a very different deal. I wouldn’t have brought my oldest out in his ‘pyjamas’ – let alone comedy out-of-season ones. No, instead I would have stressed both of us out by hoisting him into a complicated little outfit – complete with obsolete pockets and a million poppers, leaving him puce and screaming and me a quivering wreck. From perfectionist to permissive, from shocked to sanguine, a shift in parenting style from first to second children is something lots of parents observe in themselves. And although I feel a tad guilty about giggling at the baby’s expense when it came to his Christmas expectations, he is a very happy smiley baby, which may have something to do with having a relaxed mummy. And he’ll neither care nor remember what he wore when he was six months old. I certainly hope not, anyway, or I’m in big trouble.
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Here are a few more differences you may recognise between first and second children‌
First child: You had a detailed birth plan, with extra pages attached to your notes. SIBLING: The words Birth and Plan make you laugh a hollow, hollow laugh. First Child: Their bottom knew nothing but cotton wool and cool boiled water – at least for the first few weeks. SIBLING: Wet wipes – where would we be without them? First Child: Anything that went anywhere near them was sterilised within an inch of its life. SIBLING: After a couple of months, the dishwasher sterilises and the three second rule rules. First child: Had done baby massage, baby sign, baby swimming and baby music sessions by the age of six months. SIBLING: You take them swimming when the other one’s having lessons. Unless they’re asleep, in which case coffee. You will get round to the other stuff – probably. First child: You willed them to crawl and walk. SIBLING: You make the most of them being immobile. First Child: Was sheltered from junk food with a ferocious zeal. SIBLING: Loves Hula Hoops.
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FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 21
Could you be a
FOSTER CARER? Fostering provides stability, safety and a family environment for children who cannot be looked after by their own families. We talk to Joyce Masson from Advanced Foster Care about what it takes to embark on a career in caring. CAN ANYONE BECOME A FOSTER CARER? Foster carers come from all walks of life and have diverse life experiences. We have carers of different ages, ethnicities, we have lone carers, those in a relationship and those who smoke. There are some offences which preclude individuals from becoming carers therefore if you have ever been convicted of an offence it is easier to discuss this at the onset. We want to hear from individuals who truly wish to make a positive difference to children’s lives. We’ll discuss fostering with you and together decide if this is the right time for you to consider caring as a career option. CAN I CONTINUE TO WORK WHILE BEING A FOSTER CARER? We appreciate that everyone needs to pay their day to day bills. However fostering is a full time career and so if you are a lone carer, we would expect you to focus upon your fostering role. If you are in a two adult household it is expected that one person will remain at home. WHAT CHECKS DO YOU CARRY OUT ON ME AND MY HOME? We provide a detailed and extensive assessment with checks and references. Many of the children and young people we care for are some of the most vulnerable within society and it’s our priority to safeguard them. Our assessment process takes about 4 months however in some cases it can take longer. If you are a carer transferring agencies, we aim to conclude this process within 8 – 12 weeks..
However, when children are in placement and feel safe very often more information comes to light. CAN I TURN DOWN A CHILD IF I DON’T FEEL THEY ARE SUITABLE? We carefully match our children and always discuss matches with our foster carers. We would hope that carers view the children we discuss as being suitably placed. However all carers have a right to consider and turn down a placement. WHAT SUPPORT WILL I GET FROM YOU? As an agency we pride ourselves on being alongside you on your fostering journey. We provide individual support to you from your own allocated social worker. As a service we also offer outreach workers to assist as needed, support groups for you to meet other carers, a training programme of 34 dedicated courses and also out of hours support 24/7, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year. We are always available to assist and guide you whenever you need us. To find out more about Advanced Foster Care on 0800 644 6230 • www.advancedfostercare.co.uk
YOU SAY IT’S A CAREER. HOW MUCH WILL I BE PAID? Payments are between £360 – £565 per week depending upon the nature of the fostering placement. Our specialised therapeutic fostering placements pay £700 per week. Our average foster carer earns around £34,000 a year. HOW MUCH WILL I KNOW ABOUT THE CHILD TO BE PLACED WITH ME? You will know as much as we know. Information is provided to us by the local authority and we share all that information with you.
vement experience g & Mo ingin S 3 months to 5 years d , e usic hildren ag M c e Th bies & ba r o f
0800 644 6230 Classes in Wakefield (Sandal and Stanley), Ossett, Pontefract, Normanton, Ackworth, Garforth, Wetherby, Boston Spa and Harrogate
Contact Paula on 01977 650455 jojinglesleeds@yahoo.co.uk www.jojingles.com/leeds
advancedfostercare.co.uk advancedfostercare.co.uk
22
FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October
Award winning Art & Craft sessions for 12 months – 11 years old You create, we clear up!
available ns in Yeadon & Horsforth • Parties also
0844 854 9130
Sessio
www.thecreationstation.co.uk
Baby CLASSES
FIT FOR A FUTURE KING! Did you, like the royal couple, welcome a new baby into the family over the summer? If you did, you’re probably looking to get out and about and take part in some baby classes. They’re a great way of meeting other mums and introducing your baby to other children. Take a look at our five favourite sessions. They’re all tried, tested and recommended by Families Leeds readers!
1 VIVERE BABY MASSAGE
4 BABY RAVE
Connect with your baby through massage and discover all the benefits it brings. The wonderful Victoria Iball runs sessions at Children’s Centres across Leeds for babies from 6 weeks old up to 1 year. These 5 lesson courses are an introduction to massage and give parents the tools to tackle a host of baby ailments including reflux and colic. Sessions in Horsforth (Monday & Wednesday), Alwoodley (Tuesday), Otley (Thursday), Guiseley (Friday) and Farsley (Friday). Coming soon to Chapel Allerton and Roundhay. www.learnbabymassage.co.uk • 0113 238 3847
If you think a new baby means your days of dancing are behind you then think again. Baby Rave Leeds is the chance to party with your pint size disco diva. These cool dance events are held at clubs during the day and mix high energy music, colourful lights, soft play equipment, sensory games and lots of dancing. The next raves are on Sunday 22nd September and Tuesday 24th September at the Vox Warehouse, LS11. To find out more text Faye on 07729 185 953
2 WATERBABIES Award winning baby swimming class that goes from strength to strength. These are fun, innovative sessions for babies from birth with high levels of instruction. It’s a programme that promotes water confidence and safety skills as well as being lots of fun. Arran MacDonald who along with his partner Janice Walker runs sessions across Yorkshire says they know of at least 10 lives that have been saved because of Waterbabies. These are very popular sessions and early booking is recommended. www.waterbabies.co.uk • 01943 862 802
3 PRAMERCISE The original pram based full body workout, developed by local mum of 3 Claire Sparrow. Claire runs sessions in parks in Roundhay (Tuesday & Thursday), Horsforth (Thursday) and Kirkstall. This is a proper workout and is no walk in the park! Claire also runs baby friendly post-natal pilates sessions at the Leeds Pilates Place in Kirkstall. It’s a way to meet other new Mums and give yourself a workout. Enjoy your first class FREE! www.leedspilatesplace.co.uk • 0113 225 0791
Classes in North Leeds To try a class or for more information please contact Sara on 0844 504 0964 or email sara@pyjamadrama.com
5 BABIES CAN SIGN Join Signing Sam for a programme of sign language classes and taster sessions for babies from 6 months old. Developed by local mum Vicki Gilbert, these are fun sessions which aid communication and social skills. Classes across Leeds and Bradford and you can read our review on page 8! www.babiescansign.co.uk • 07742296160
We also like… FLUTTERBABIES YOGA & SWIMMING Samantha Dalton runs both baby swimming and baby yoga sessions across Yorkshire. Both help aid bonding and give you confidence with your baby. From 8 weeks. www.flutterbabies.co.uk • 07768 538 527 BABY SENSORY Award wining sensory development classes from birth to 13 months. Sessions in Alwoodley, Chapel Allerton, Pudsey, Horsforth and Wetherby. www.babysensory.com
Our GUIDE 2
PRE-SCHOOL CLASSES
Looking to keep your toddler busy this new term? Look no further than our guide to the best classes in town. Many will welcome you along for a free taster before you sign up for a term. Take a look and make that call but make sure you tell them you saw their name in Families Leeds!
Dance...
Craft...
Baby Ballet
The Creation Station
www.babyballet.co.uk Fun dance classes for children from 9 months old. Children begin with Twinkle Tots sessions and move to Tiny Toes at 18 months then Mini Movers at 3 years old. All classes use music and movement to introduce and then develop body awareness and self confidence as well as an introducing children to the basics of ballet. Classes across Leeds. 07702 965 932
www.thecreationstation.co.uk Art and craft sessions for children from 12 months at The Barn in Yeadon (Wednesday), Horsforth (Thursday) and Tumble Town, Guiseley (Friday). 0844 854 9130
DanceBugs www.dancebugs-leeds.co.uk Pre-school dance classes run by Laura Jakes aimed at developing listening skills and co-ordination in a fun imaginative class. Sessions in Moortown for children from 3 years old. 0113 295 0126
Diddi Dance www.diddidance.com Funky, energetic dance class for children from 18 months. Classes cover a host of dance styles including salsa, hip hop, disco and Bollywood. Themes change regularly. Free trial class available. Classes across Leeds and Harrogate. 07917 757 566
Music... Jo Jingles www.jojingles.com/leeds Music and movement class aimed at giving babies from 3 months old a fun introduction to singing. Sessions across Leeds. 01977 650 455
Little Voices www.operanorth.co.uk Fun 45 minute sessions where parents, babies and tots create music together at Opera North. From birth â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 years old. Booking essential. 0113 223 3557
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Our magical dance classes teach the basics of ballet in a fun, informal environment and were voted a favourite pre-school activity in Leeds by Netmums. Classes for children from 9 months to 5 years taught by professionally trained teachers in Horsforth, Pudsey, Beeston, Morley, Tingley and close to the city centre.
Contact 07702 965 932 â&#x20AC;˘ leedscentral@babyballet.co.uk
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24
FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October
Pre-school fun at Tennis Tykes
Now celebrating 10 years in Leeds! Fun, educational music classes for babies, toddlers & pre-schoolers FREE trial session!
Call Elizabeth on 0113 232 8131
www.rhythmtime.net/eh2
Sport...
MusicBugs www.musicbugs.co.uk Interactive music and singing class for children from birth. Family Bugs is a mixed age class for children from 6 months – 4 years. Baby Bugs is for children from 4 weeks old. Classes use nursery rhymes, action songs, puppets and props to give children an introduction to music. Classes in Alwoodley, Farsley, Headingley, Horsforth and Roundhay. 0844 578 1043
Leeds Gymnastics
Rhythm Time
Socatots
www.rhythmtime.net Quality music courses for children from birth created by a music teacher to encourage development. Sessions organised in 3 different age groups. Baby sessions are from birth – 15 months. Toddler classes from 15 months – 3 years and pre-school classes from 3 – 5 years. Sessions in Roundhay, Pudsey, Barwick in Elmet, Horsforth, Scholes, Alwoodley and Horsforth. 0113 232 8131
www.socatots.com Original pre-school football programme for boys and girls from 6 months. Classes across Leeds. 07910 329 675
www.leedsgymnastics.com Hugely popular classes for pre-school children. Gym Babies sessions on a Friday for 1 – 3 year olds and Mini Gym sessions for 3 & 4 year olds on a Wednesday and Friday. These are in high demand and waiting lists are likely. 0113 265 6662
Fitness, Fun & Friends!
BOOK NOW BOOK FOR 2013 NOW
MUSICAL THEATRE & STREET DANCE for children from 3–11 years across Leeds BOOK NOW FOR SATURDAY CLASSES IN ARMLEY, CROSSGATES & SEACROFT
FLEX DANCE PARTIES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE
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FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 25
Brought to you by Leeds Pilates Place
Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no WALK in the PARK Developed by mum of three, Claire Sparrow in 2005, Pramercise is the original pram-based, full-body work out targeting all the key mummy areas in a fun and social way! Join us at Roundhay, Horsforth and Kirkstall. Also available at our beautiful baby friendly, fully equipped Pilates studio are specialist pre and post natal Pilates classes taught by highly qualified teachers. Enjoy your first class for FREE!
Tennis Tots www.tennis-tots.co.uk Tennis coaching for children from 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6 years old. Sessions in Alwoodley, Roundhay, Horsforth, Cookridge, Headingley and Mumspace at Crown Point Retail Park. 07753 800 723
www.leedspilatesplace.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ 0113 225 0791 @pramercise
Tennis Tykes www.tennistykes.co.uk Fun educational tennis play and coaching for children from 2 years old. Caroline Buncall uses modified tennis equipment with sticker incentives. Pre-school sessions in Wetherby, Harrogate and Ilkley. 07843 342 662
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www.pyjamadrama.com Drama and creative play classes for children from 18 months old. Voted Netmums Best Pre School Class. Sessions in Chapel Allerton, Adel, Roundhay, Alwoodley and Stainbeck. 0844 504 0964
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And finally... Make sure you check the sessions at your local Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Centre and your local Leisure Centre. Find out more at www.leeds.gov.uk and click on your nearest venue.
Classes for pre-school children from babies to age 4
Join in the fun! Free Taster Sessions
call us today!
07775298627
email littlestarsleeds@hotmail.com
Join us on Facebook: Little Stars Leeds
26
FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October
WIN… 10 VOUCHERS FOR 10 YEARS OF It’s 10 years since Lisa Clay opened Armadillo in the heart of Chapel Allerton, offering parents good quality durable toys. During that time she’s opened a second store in Horsforth, and moved to larger premises in Chapel Allerton but her mission has remained the same to make shopping local a pleasure for parents. To celebrate a decade of Armadillo, Lisa would like to give away 10 birthday gifts. If you would like to be one of 10 children to win a £10 gift voucher, simply send your child’s name and address to editor@families leeds.co.uk with the words ARMADILLO in the subject line. Winners will be notified by email. Take a look at the great range of products in store at www.armadillotoys.co.uk or pop in and wish the Armadillo team a very happy birthday!
WIN… WIN… WIN… IIALL ENTRIES CLOSE ON 31ST OCTOBERII
WIN… a SLEIGH RIDE with SANTA & VIP Trip to STOCKELD PARK Once again we are lucky enough to be on Santa’s speed dial and he’s asked us to find a special girl or boy to sit alongside him as he returns to his Yorkshire home this winter. We’ve teamed up with the fantastic Christmas Adventure at Stockeld Park to give one lucky family the chance to join Santa on his sleigh ride through the Enchanted Forest on 9th November. You’ll get VIP access to the sleigh which will pass by the waiting crowds pulled by Santa’s reindeers and you’ll get to pay him a private visit to let him have all your Christmas wishes. The fabulous prize also includes a VIP pass to all the great activities at this superb attraction. You can head to the REAL ice rink, have a go on the Nordic ski trail, get lost in the magic maze and finish your day with a twilight walk retracing your sleigh ride through the Enchanted Forest. To be in with a chance of winning simply send your child’s name and address to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk with the words SLEIGH RIDE in the subject line. Winners will be notified via email and remember, only good girls and boys need apply! www.stockeldpark.co.uk
WIN… a £50 Voucher from HERBERT & STELLA A Yorkshire winter means it’s time to wrap up warm. Herbert & Stella, Ilkley’s newest children’s clothing store, is offering one lucky reader the chance to win £50 to spend on either a winter coat or snowsuit. Christine Asher has a great range of beautiful coats and cover ups for both girls and boys in stock, including this fabulous penguin jacket from Mini Rodini. To be in with a chance of winning, simply send your name and address to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk with the words HERBERT & STELLA in the subject line. Look at the full range in stock at www.herbertandstella.co.uk or visit the shop on Brook Street in Ilkley.
FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 27
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. hand on a daily basis to ick st m oo br y m you that I keep ready for Halloween it t ge d an ice rv My children will tell se a it ed to dust it off, give we want you to get d an t ou ys da If you don’t, you’ll ne ky oo on some seriously sp ree! 2013. We’ve stumbled eds’ terrifying top th Le es ili m Fa e ar re He them in the diary.
THE HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE STOCKELD PARK
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rd October from Opens Wednesday 23 dpark.co.uk kel toc 10.30am • www.s e is a mere The Summer Adventur ckeld Park has memory and now Sto y self! Enter the returned to its spook Malin will meet Wizard’s Den where witching gift. you and offer you a be the Enchanted Join the storytellers in tale or two or Forest for a terrifying ily activities on enjoy a host of fun da Leeds’ favourite. offer at this Families d older children For the very brave an which sees the there is Fright Night hire’s most Forest turn into Yorks n if you dare. frightening venue. Joi a host of exciting With new sculptures, a brand new play equipment and Ice, Stockeld is Friday night Disco on this Halloween! the coolest place to be
2
SPOOKY SCARECROWS
LEEDS MUSEUMS
tober From Saturday 26th Oc uk ov. www.leeds.g d Kirkstall Visit Lotherton Hall an – if you dare! en we Abbey this Hallo scarecrows have y ok A gathering of spo these two Leeds’ taken up residence at mising to scare attractions and are pro m. There’s a all visitors this half ter r popular eve the scarecrow trail at red around tte sca es Lotherton with clu s on Saturday the estate. That begin 26th October. Abbey the Meanwhile at Kirkstall ongst am n de hid scarecrows have job ur yo the ruins and it’s nt to find them. That eve ay begins on Tuesd 29th October. They both promise to be frightening good value – they’re FREE!
PUMPKIN & WITCHES TRAIL BOLTON ABBEY
3
tober From Saturday 26th Oc www.boltonabbey.com oky this half term Strid Wood turns spo es, scary spiders with low flying witch mpkins. Collect an and a few hidden pu arrival and set activity sheet on your witches spell to work unravelling the trip through during your terrifying the wood. u can enjoy a Alongside the trail yo beach and head family walk along the e. But keep your to the ruins to explor ver know what’s wits about you. You ne ner! hiding around the cor
Bolton Abbey
N E E W HALLO
Sunday 1st – Monday 30th September
Friday 5th October
Tiny Tigers Month LEEDS CITY MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Head to the City Museum for extra Tiny Tigers sessions. Messy play for under 5s. Sessions all day.
Light Night LEEDS MUSEUMS www.leeds.gov.uk Come and see the city lit up on a night of celebration. Enjoy fun activities at the Art Gallery and Leeds City Museum along with some super shows, performances and exhibitions. Begins at 5pm.
Sunday 8th September Family Day THWAITE MILLS WATERMILL www.leeds.gov.uk A celebration of steam and transport. See steam rollers, military vehicles, boats and transport from yesteryear.
Wednesday 11th September Little Scientists ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Fun Science activities for under 5s. This month’s theme is smelly stuff. Sessions at 10am and 2pm.
Saturday 14th September Heritage Open Day LEEDS INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Come along and meet Loco Jack. Begins at 10am. Heritage Open Day LEEDS MUSEUM DISCOVERY CENTRE www.leeds.gov.uk Enjoy a free tour and object handling at the museum. Begins at 10am.
Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th September Heritage Open Day KIRKSTALL ABBEY www.leeds.gov.uk Free guided tour around one of the best preserved monasteries in the country and find out how monks lived. Heritage Open Day TEMPLE NEWSAM www.leeds.gov.uk Free entry to this stunning attraction. Make sure you take some time to play in the super playground.
Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd September Superhero Weekend EUREKA! www.eureka.org.uk Are you more Superman than Wonder Woman? Whatever Superhero you choose, you’ll be welcome at the National Children’s Museum this weekend to take part in some super power training.
Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th October Steam Punk Fair LEEDS INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Come along for tea, cakes and entertainment at Leeds’ very own steam punk fair. Lots of stalls and exhibitions. Open at 10am on Saturday and 1pm on Sunday.
Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th October Grow Your Own Festival RHS HARLOW CARR www.rhs.org.uk Celebrate Autumn at Harlow Carr’s Autumn Festival. Enjoy practical demonstrations, cookery shows and a market. First Aid Training for Families EUREKA! www.eureka.org.uk British Red Cross is holding FREE 30 minute sessions teaching children life saving first aid skills. Adults may learn a thing or two. No booking required.
Sunday 13th October Hedgerow Festival THWAITE MILLS WATERMILL www.leeds.gov.uk Wilderness cooking, make your own apple juice, fungi foraging and bushcraft. You can also enjoy a hog roast and mulled drinks. There’s also tips on winter gardening. 11am start.
Monday 14th – Tuesday 22nd October Yorkshire Wool Week LEEDS INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Celebrate Yorkshire Wool Week with lots of events, workshops and displays.
HALLOWEEN HALF TERM Wednesday 23rd October The Halloween Adventure STOCKELD PARK www.stockeldpark.co.uk Let the adventure begin as the doors open to one of the best Halloween days out in Yorkshire. Open daily from 10.30am with an Enchanted Forest and maze to explore, as well as ice skating and lots of themes craft fun.
Friday 25th October – Sunday 3rd November
Saturday 26th – Thursday 31st October
Scooby Doo: Where are you? EUREKA! www.eureka.org.uk Join the ultimate dog detective as the mysteries come to the National Children’s Museum in Halifax. Lots of fun activities over half term. I wonder if there will be any ‘pesky kids’?
Wizard’s Den STOCKELD PARK www.stockeldpark.co.uk Visit Wizard Malin in his magical hideaway and pick up a bewitching gift from his cauldron. He’ll be there from 1 – 6pm each day.
Saturday 26th October
Sat 26th October – Sunday 3rd November
Big Up a View for Big Draw LEEDS ART GALLERY www.leeds.gov.uk Work with other families to make an enormous drawing amongst the galleries artwork. Be inspired by the places you live, the Leeds’ countryside and art within the gallery. Begins at 11am.
Witches Trail BOLTON ABBEY www.boltonabbey.com Head to Strid Wood this half term for a terrfying trail of witches and pumpkins. Hunt for clues to unravel the witches spell. Trail free with admission. Open 10am – 4pm.
Gruesome Newsam TEMPLE NEWSAM www.leeds.gov.uk Join a ghostly tour of the house. Suitable for children from 7. Booking required on 0113 336 7460.
Spooky Scarecrow Trail LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk Join this scary trail around the estate. Follow the clues – if you dare!
mosi.org.uk
See the North West’s most incredible industrial inventions and super scientific achievements ever imaginable. Be inspired by world-class galleries, live demonstrations, events and exhibitions that’ll blow your mind and startle your senses.
30
FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October
WHERE MEDICINE BECOMES MAGIC! FEARS, PHOBIAS & PHANTOMS
October Find out about unusual phobias. Make your own spooky wands, masks and witches hats.
ANIMAL MAGIC
September Join us for animal crafts and meet a real ‘Pat Dog’.
ALL ACTIVITIES ARE FREE WITH YOUR 12 MONTH TICKET! Award winning museum, open daily from 10am-5pm
Learning Café - serving hot food and tasty treats
Tickets last all year
Unique birthday party venue
On-site parking only £1
RHS Harlow Carr
Sat 26th October – Sunday 3rd November Sense-ational Autumn Fun RHS HARLOW CARR www.rhs.org.uk Indulge all your senses this half term. Activities and workshops will help put you in touch with the gifts of taste, touch, sight, sound and smell.
Sunday 27th October WWW WWW.THACKRAYMEDICALMUSEUM.CO.UK .THACKRA AY YMEDICALMUSEUM.CO. YMEDICAL UK Beckett Beckett Street, Street, L Leeds eeds LS9 7LN Enquiries: 0113 0113 244 244 4343 / info@thackraymuseum.org info@thackraymuseum.org
Scary Family Fun Day LEEDS INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Come and join us for a spooky movie, scary crafts and ghostly tales. From 1pm.
Monday 28th October – Friday 1st November Spooky Half Term THACKRAY MUSEUM www.thackraymedicalmuseum.co.uk As part of Fears, Phobias and Phantoms month, there’s a host of craft activities going on over half term at this great museum. Make a spooky wand or a mask to scare your friends. Sessions between 1 – 4pm.
Tuesday 29th October Ceramic Painting STOCKELD PARK www.stockeldpark.co.uk Come along and get crafty with a pottery painting workshop. Begins at 12noon. Spooky Scarecrow Search KIRKSTALL ABBEY www.leeds.gov.uk Find the scarecrows hidden around the abbey. You may see some familiar faces! Begins at 10am.
Tuesday 29th – Thursday 31st October Bewitching Tales NEW FOR 2013 STOCKELD PARK www.stockeldpark.co.uk Join the storytellers as they take you through the Enchanted Forest for a narrated adventure. From 1.30 – 4.30pm.
FAMILIES LEEDS | September/October 31
Wednesday 30th October Museum Monsters LEEDS MUSEUMS DISCOVERY CENTRE www.leeds.gov.uk Experience the museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s store by torchlight. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;lll see big teeth, tarantulas and lots more. Booking required on 0113 378 2100. Begins at 10am.
STOCKELD
PARK
Where magic is made & adventures
begin
Wednesday 30th & Thursday 31st October Spooky Halloween Tour LEEDS INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM www.leeds.gov.uk Halloween themed family tour around the spooky Armley Mills. This was once the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest woollen mill and holds many secrets. Not for the faint hearted. Under 12s tour from 3.30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4.15pm. Booking essential on 0113 267 7861.
The Halloween Adventure
Open from 23rd Oct 2013
Thursday 31st October Witches, Vampires and Zombies ABBEY HOUSE www.leeds.gov.uk Scary Halloween fun from 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12pm & 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm. Halloween Day LOTHERTON HALL www.leeds.gov.uk Spooky craft activities and games through the day for all the family. From 11am. Halloween Spooktacular TEMPLE NEWSAM www.leeds.gov.uk Enjoy a spooky trick or treat through the house and farm at Temple Newsam. Booking required on 0113 336 7460. Ticket charges apply but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Family Ticket available. Begins at 5pm.
Friday 1st â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sunday 3rd November Festival of Light & Fire STOCKELD PARK www.stockeldpark.co.uk Come along to the NEW 3 day festival of fire and light in the spectacular Stockeld Park. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a daily lantern parade from 3.30pm and the festival culminates in the now famous Firework Spectacular on Sunday evening. Make sure you book online to avoid missing out on the best display in town!
NEW FOR 2013
DATE FOR YOUR DIARYâ&#x20AC;Ś Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th November Christmas at Hogwarts BOOK NOW STOCKELD PARK www.stockeldpark.co.uk Returning for a second year to The Christmas Adventure, this hugely popular weekend was truly magical in 2012. With the help of Make a Wish Entertainment, a famous wizard and his friends return to the forest at Stockeld Park for a weekend of themed events. BOOK ONLINE AND BOOK EARLY!
atwalk Halloween C Den & Wizardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
Bewitching Tales
Have a Halloween Adventure this year at Stockeld Park, as our ancient woodland hubbles and bubbles with spooky activities and ghoulish goings on. This Halloween, things are going BUMP in our Adventure Zones, with Bewitching Tales, a Wizardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Den, spooky disco on ice and close up magic. And something new is lurking deep in the ancient Enchanted Forest... which includes our Fireworks Spectacular, Charity ! Firewalk, Disco on Ice Light Special, Fire and OM BO Light Performance and Lantern Parade. Enchanted Forest Maze Skate Shop/CafĂŠ Nordic Ski Stockeld Park is perfectly located between Harrogate and Leeds. Sat Nav: LS22 4AN T: 01937 586333
www.stockeldpark.co.uk
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Family Open Day Saturday 5th October 1:30 - 4:30pm A fun day fo or faam Come and see wh wha B ouncy Castle Castle FFace Painting Story Telling Bouncy Singing Games Singing Ga Healthy Snacks Pre-register online nli t All areas of the school oo will be open t Pre-Prep Sc Junior Sc Senior ior S * " ( * " ( * " * "
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