Family Matters - Frome and West Wilts edition

FROME AND WEST WILTS EDITION

ISSUE 52 • February 2019

being a step-parent

FORMERLY

celebrating your school news

www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

prizes to be won!

LAMBING AT LACKH AM

H T 4 2 30TH & 31ST 23RD & 2019 H C Y 4PM R M R ARCH 2019 A T N M5PM LAST E 10–5PM L AST ENTR 10– Y

4PM

TICKETS ON THE DAY

TICKETS IN ADVANCE ONLINE

£8 per adult (over 16)

£6 per adult (over 16)

£6 per child

£4 per child

£25 per car

£20 per car

VISIT SHOP.WILTSHIRE.AC.UK TO BOOK TICKETS Lambing at Lackham is an annual fundraising event, with all proceeds going to the maintenance and improvement of facilities for college students. Wiltshire College & University Centre is a registered charity.

WELCOME Hello, we hope you had a good break over the Christmas holidays and are ready and raring to go with this new year. It’s an exciting time of year, not only can you see the evenings get lighter, watch the trees changing and spot the new lambs in the fields, but this is also the first Family Matters of 2019!

This issue has advice on choosing a nursery, some fun facts about pancake day, some words of wisdom from step parents and people with step parents on easing into a new family and of course, all of the usual news and reviews from your school! We’ve been amazed at how much you all managed to fit into last term and all the things you managed to achieve, we’re excited to see where 2019 will take you all!

You’ll also find plenty of events and ideas to keep you busy during the upcoming half term holiday, so be sure to add them to your plans and have a good time!

p9 who loves pancakes?!

p12 WHAT'S ON NEAR YOU

p10 how to handle those toddler tantrums

p14 national pie day

Published by Ignyte Media Ltd - email: info@ignyte-uk.co.uk call: 01761 410141 While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in the publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.

Ignyte do not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All right reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.

ukfamilymatters |

@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk | 3

being a step parent B

ecoming a step parent is a massive change, whether you have been with the child’s parent for a long time or this is a recent development, you’ll find that this role comes with a range of new challenges, but don’t fret, we’re here to help you!

Choosing to become a step parent is an amazing thing to do, you’ve entered into a role as an extra care giver, someone who can bestow as much love and respect into the family unit as possible.

That’s a wonderful thing! We’ve spoken to a couple of people with step parents or who are step parents themselves to help dispel the myth of the evil step parent and to share their stories of loving and wonderful family experiences.

The first thing our contributors agree on is that being a step parent is no mean feat.

Melanie: “Nothing can prepare you for being presented with a ready-made family and it is equally as strange for the kids in the family. Whether you’ve been in their lives for a while or not, the moment you become a permanent fixture it can create a lot of feelings of guilt and being disloyal to your biological parent. It’s important to remember that it is a strange situation for everyone and to just be patient and work through it.”

You know the ‘Expectations vs Reality’ scene in 500 Days of Summer? Well...

Tom: “Relationships need time to grow, you might think that you can walk into the family and everything will be perfect immediately, but it won’t. You need to work together to get to know each other, to come up with a new family dynamic and that can take time. Don’t be put off though, the reality will become the perfect expectation eventually.”

Want to share your stories of being a step parent or having one?

Get in touch with us on Facebook or Twitter at UKFamilyMatters.

4 |

ukfamilymatters |

@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk

Don’t forget to know your role...

Becki: “You might be tempted to go straight in and establish yourself as a parent, but a lot of the time, children don’t need another parent, they need someone they can trust, someone who can bring stability to their lives and stepping into that role can bring some really beautiful moments.”

Avoid competition.

We know, when you’ve entered into a new relationship and there are kids and exes it can be difficult to navigate, you might feel like you’re in between the kids and their parent or that the ex assumes that you are competition. Just know that none of this is personal, it is all family politics and though it might be tough, just do as Elsa says and "Let it Go". Joining this family is an amazing thing and you should never forget that.

Noah: “For me, I always felt like I was being disloyal by not hating my step dad, now though I know that it is ok to care about him and that it doesn’t take anything away from how I feel about my actual dad. It isn’t a popularity contest!”

How you establish yourself in the family is something everyone seems to agree on.

Tom: “You might feel a pressure to become a parent straight away and to have authority, a need to discipline and you might feel guilty if you find it difficult to bond with the rest of the family, especially if the children are a little older. Take your time to find your feet and make sure that you act in a loving, respectful and sure way, even if you don’t feel that to start with.”

Melanie: “As someone who had a step mum and is now a step mum, I think the best thing to do is to brace yourself for resistance, I was very against the idea of having a step mother when we were first introduced, but she was very patient with me and we ended up becoming great friends, I used the same approach when I found myself in the same situation and becoming my step son’s friend has been so rewarding.”

One thing to take away from joining a new family is that the relationship you have with your partner’s children is special and gives you the opportunity to create something beautiful and unique. By taking your time and being patient, you can become an important person in the children’s lives, it can be hard work, but working on the relationship and being true to yourself will pay off. You won’t be perfect and it won’t be easy, but it’s an adventure that you, your partner and your new family can take together. ukfamilymatters |

@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk | 5

competition deadline : 22 Feb 2019

Image by: Previous Young Open entrant of Warminster School, 2015

30 MARCH – 27 APRIL 2019

WWW.HOLBURNE.ORG

FREE HOLIDAY DROP-INS Wednesday 20 and Thursday 21 February 10.30am-12.30pm & 1.30-3.30pm

DO NOT DISTURB!

Make a unique sign for your bedroom inspired by the gorgeous Georgian doors of Bath Most suitable for over 5s; adults must accompany children at all times

Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DB

2 for 1 tickets* Buy 2 tickets for the price of 1 for any upcoming performance at the egg theatre.

To redeem this offer call us on 01225 823409 and present this voucher when collecting your tickets from the theatre. *Tickets subject to availability. Voucher must be redeemed between February and April 2019.

Theatre Royal Bath, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET

Enter now at www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

Win Prizes

Win an eight pack of Smashers

Win a family ticket to Bristol Aquarium

With a surprise in every SMASH – get ready to unbox a collection of revolting critters...

Dive into the ocean and discover the wonders of the deep in a colourful aquarium, right in the heart of Bristol.

Explore more than 40 naturally-themed displays and spot the thousands of amazing aquatic creatures, including tropical sharks, rays, seahorses, puffer fish, piranhas, and so many more. Wander through an Underwater Tunnel to watch fascinating marine life swim over your head.

This February half term meet real pirates and mermaids, they’ve come ashore to Bristol Aquarium with ‘tails’ to share of life out in the seven seas! With extra activities and hands on fun there is something for everyone, whatever the weather!

worth £9.99 each

Each GROSS SMASHERS character lives inside an iconic Eyeball SMASHBALL which can only be discovered once smashed open. With over 100 characters to collect, they will also feature select Smashball Eyeballs with creepy mini-beasts covered in slime!

SMASHERS Series 2 are suitable for ages 5+ and available nationwide. Prices start from £1.99 through to £19.99.

Win 4 unlimited wristbands for The Grand Pier Our indoor theme park has hundreds of amusements on offer, a range of thrilling rides and attractions and the best indoor play in Weston-super-Mare. With restaurants and cafés serving delicious food and a whole host of events to suit all ages, there’s something for everyone at the Pier.

Visit www.bristolaquarium. co.uk to find out more!

Win a family ticket to the Hawks Conservancy Visit the number one rated attraction in Hampshire on TripAdvisor; the Hawk Conservancy Trust is a fantastic day out for all the family.

Immerse your children in nature, and witness some of the most spectacular flying displays in the UK. ‘Meet the Burrowers’ in all new immersive aviary at the Trust, and come face to face with their cute and curious Burrowing Owls or even book on to a VIP Encounter session to get close to the full team of owls! Children can blow off some steam as they explore the park and take part in the new activity trail, coming Easter 2019.

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING THESE FANTASTIC PRIZES, simply visit www.familymatters-uk.co.uk, click on the Competitions button and complete the form. It couldn’t be easier! Closing date for entries: 1st March 2019

February half term to Add some colour activities at Tyntesfield your weekend this 18 - 21 February 2019, 11am - 3pm

autumn at Gibside

Warm up this winter with a herbal tea making session at Tyntesfield and learn all about the amazing properties of herbs. You can even take a piece of Tyntesfield Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover home a forest teeming withby wildlife and autumn with walking with you creating yourcolours, own Victorian routes for all ages and abilities. pomander. £4.00 per child.

Call 01275 461900 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield When youvisit, visit,donate, donate,volunteer volunteer join National Trust, When you or or join thethe National Trust, youryour support helpsus usto tolook lookafter after special places theregion> South<like West such support helps special places <ininthe as Tyntesfield, Dyrham Park and Lacock for ever, everyone. property X, property Y and Proeprty Z> in for ever, forfor everyone. © National Trust 2018. The National Trust is an © National Trust 2016. The National Trust is an independent independent registered charity, number 205846. registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Photography © National Trust Images\Arnhel de Images.

Serra.

#nationaltrust #nationaltrust

Where does Pancake Day come from?

We don’t know about you but Shrove Tuesday, better known as Pancake Day, is one of the Family Matters Team’s favourite holidays. It’s a day where we get to eat pancakes, both sweet and savoury with a whole host of fun toppings and when it comes to pancakes, anything goes!

They are super simple to make and you can flavour them however you want, all you need is milk, eggs and flour, or if you’re dairy free, you can use egg substitutes and plant based milks. Supermarkets even sell free-from batter mixes now so everyone can join in with the celebrations.

But, where did Pancake Day come from?

Pancake Day (Shrove Tuesday) is the traditional feast day before the start of Lent (which begins on Ash Wednesday). Traditionally, Christians would use Lent as a time of fasting, they would go to confession and be shriven (absolved from their sins), a bell would be rung to call people to come along to confession which is still known as the Pancake Bell. Shrove Tuesday became the last opportunity to use up eggs and fats before the fast, so pancakes are a good way of using up these ingredients. Pancake races also take place on this day, the most famous one takes place in Buckinghamshire, apparently in 1445, a woman ran to church with frying pan after hearing the bell which sparked the tradition!

Here are the top pancake toppings for you to choose from: Lemon and sugar

Nutella

Maple syrup

Golden Syrup

Chocolate chips Fruit

Cheese

TOP TIPS FOR TODDLER We’ve all been there. We’re in public, having a lovely time and suddenly your child spots something colourful or sugary, they ask the dreaded question, you tell them no and then the screaming starts.

Maybe you’re in the supermarket, maybe you’re in a department store, maybe you’re just walking down the street.

Perhaps you’re trying to drop them off at school/nursery/their best friends house.

Wherever you are at that moment it is never easy. You feel like the entire world is staring at you and of course, your child is clearly distressed – so what do you do?

Some people laugh it off, others find it hard to keep their cool, some roll their eyes and through gritted teeth try to be the voice of reason, whatever your reaction, we sought out some top tips with dealing with tantrums to help you out.

Firstly, what is a tantrum and why do they happen?

Well, according to the experts, young children particularly throw tantrums purely because they haven’t learned other coping skills yet and it’s the only way they know to express themselves. It all stems from trying to communicate that they want something, whether that’s more food, to take their shoes off, a new toy…

All that red faced screaming just comes from wanting something, not having it and getting frustrated by not being able to express that in a way that gets them the thing. When older children throw a tantrum it’s usually more of a power struggle, they want something and they try to assert themselves. Only when their parents or supervisor says no they have an outburst as a way of getting you to comply. Basically, until they grow out of it, it’s something you’re going to have to deal with, so we took to the internet to find out what you guys think is the best way to deal with a tempermental child.

• PAY ATTENTION TO THE CIRCUMSTANCES of the tantrums, if they tend to happen because your child is hungry, make sure to keep snacks on your person at all times, if it’s because they get tired, make sure to prioritise having naps during the day. That way, when you spot that they’re getting grouchy you can prevent a tantrum before it really gets going.

• ENFORCE POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR. Make sure to praise them for even small good behaviours, they’ll learn that being calm and happy is more likely to gain your attention than screaming.

• IF YOUR CHILD IS HAVING A TANTRUM at home, ignore them unless they’re actually in danger of hurting themselves or others, by taking away your attention you won’t reinforce this kind of behaviour. If you can, walk out of the room and stand the other side of the door where you can keep a check on them without them seeing you. When they realise they can’t get you to do what they want when they scream, it’ll happen less and less often.

• THE LOUDER THEY YELL, the softer you should talk to them. Because kids are trying to engage with you when they’re having a tantrum they’ll try to make themselves as loud as possible, so the softer you speak to them they will lower their volume too. If you’re in public, take them aside and give them a space where they can quiet down, some kids throw tantrums because they feel a lack of control, so having a choice to go somewhere else will give them a chance to retake that control and calm down. Just make sure you don’t give in to the original demand once they’re calm and continue to only reward positive behaviour.

• CREATE A DIVERSION. If your child starts throwing a tantrum because they’ve seen something they want, be sure to have a toy or snack that you can whip out and offer them as a distraction, some parents swear by this method saying it can even help stop a melt down before it even really begins.

There was one thing that everyone had in common, don’t give in, no matter how tempting, sometimes kids just need to vent, but it is important to keep your cool, you can work on getting your own rage out later. For some kids, they snap out of a tantrum as quickly as they went into it, as they start to calm down don’t dwell on it, focussing on negative behaviour causes them to inadvertently reinforce them in their minds.

S M U R T N TA

what’s on

7th February – 19th May Why Museums Matter at Holburne Museum Bath An exciting exhibition of over 1,000 ideas and comments about why museums matter 01225 388569 enquiries@holburne.org

9th February Puxton Park is hosting a funky dance party!

Free with park admission, info@puxton.co.uk or 01934 523500.

10th February Over the Moon at the Egg Theatre Bath Box office: 01225 448844

14th February Show your love one how special they really are this Valentine's Day. Treat them to an afternoon in our fully restored static carriage Rose and enjoy a High Tea. Menu includes: finger sandwiches, homemade scones, dainty cakes. All served with a glass Presecco. Avon Valley Railway. 14:30 to 16:30. www.avonvalleyrailway.org 16th – 23rd February Here Be Dragons Follow the Dragon Trail. See one of the Sea Dragons, make a dragon shoe and find out more about Chinese Dragons. The Shoe Museum, Street.

16th - 24th February Family Skating Fun Visit Farrington’s this Half Term for a skating fun for all the

family! We will have a 140-square-metre synthetic skating rink, under the cover of our barn, open between 10am-6pm daily.

Tickets cost £5.95 per person per session. Each session lasts for approximately 25 minutes.

16th - 24th February Half Term fun at Glenda Spooner Come and meet the ponies, enjoy a walk around the farm, follow the trails, join in activities and learn more about horses.

11am – 4pm Glenda Spooner Farm, Somerset 16-24th February Children’s bird feed making at Whitehall Garden Centres in Lacock, Whitehall and Woodborough. Make your own suet balls & get a bird feeder for your garden, all equipment provided. www.whitehallgardencentre.co.uk 18th February For February half term love is in the air at Puxton Park!

Join them for Valentine’s Crafts, magic, comedy and much more! info@puxton.co.uk 01934 523500.

18th – 20th February The Ladybird Detective Agency at the Egg Theatre As they flit and patter the paths and undergrowth of our gardens, many argue The Ladybird Detective Agency are style over substance... that’s actually a fair point. Join them as they go on the trail of their most daring detective duty ever!

Box office: 01225 448844.

18th – 21st February February half term at Tyntesfield Try your hand at herbal tea and pomander making at Tyntesfield this February half term. 11am until 3pm. tyntesfield@nationaltrust.org.uk or phone 01275 461900 for more information.

For further information about each event

February half term at Bishop’s Palace, Wells The family activities will be based around an Outer Space theme with a children’s space themed trail running throughout the holiday week leading little ones on a journey around the Palace and Gardens. 01749 988111.

19th February Crafty Cats at Bishop’s Palace, Wells Making all things space related with alien masks, constellation lanterns and flying rockets amongst the activities on offer.

10.30-3pm. 01749 988111.

19th - 22nd February Making Tracks: Half Term Activities Have a go on our soldier led assault course. Plus extra tank themed fun family activities in the Museum. Drop in from 11am to 3pm. Our special soldier run kids assault course will be running plus we will have fun tank based kid's trails, activities and craft in the museum. REME Museum, Lyneham, SN15 4XX. 20th - 21st February Free Family Holiday Drop ins: Do not disturb!

Holburne Museum, various times. Make your own unique sign for your bedroom inspired by the Georgian doors of Bath.

01225 388568.

20th - 23rd February Hansel and Gretal at the Egg Theatre Box office: 01225 448844.

21st February Children's Bushcraft Taster The camp paints will be out and you will learn to make your own bow and arrows, and how to build a survival shelter. Led

by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. Maximum of 15 children per event.

Booking essential. £5 per child. www.wiltshirewildlife.org 21st February Nature Ninjas at Bishop’s Palace, Wells Give children the chance to get up close with a range of nature experiences such as pond dipping.

11am – 3pm. 01749 988111.

21st February - Sing along to THE GREATEST SHOWMAN Join us as we sing along to this smash it musical! A perfect half term treat for all the family. 2pm at the Merlin Theatre, Frome.

22nd – 24th February The Singing Mermaid at Bristol Old Vic. Through beautiful puppetry and performance, Little Angel Theatre bring Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monk’s enormously popular story to life.

Bristololdvic.org.uk/whats-on Box office on 0117 9877877.

27th – 28th February Tyntetots: Thumbelina Story telling, crafts and games for 2-5 year olds and their families inspired by the classic story of Thumbelina at Tyntesfield House. tyntesfiedlearning@nationaltrust.org.uk, 01275 461961.

28th February Muckers at the Egg Theatre, Bath An audio performance will take place on Saturday 2nd March.

Box office: 01225 448844.

1st March Frome Window Wanderland 2019 We are delighted to be bringing this fantastic event back to Frome for a second year and with your help we will transform the streets into a magical outdoor gallery again for all to enjoy! Taking part as a Windowmaker is FREE and everyone is welcome. You can make a display in the windows of your flat, house, business, school, nursery, car, campervan, shop – or in your front garden! fromewindowwanderland@gmail.com for more information.

7th March Family Felting Make a wet felt bookmark for World Book Day – £5 per person; Minimum age 7 years old. 4:30pm to 6:00pm, Trowbridge Museum.

Until 1st April Arty Babies at Holburne Museum, Bath A relaxed, creative space for mums to meet and chat while their babies enjoy safe and sensory play.

Mondays 1-2.30pm, call 01225 388568.

please visit www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

y pp a H National PI Day! Pi Day is celebrated on 14th March all over the world as a way to help students remember the mathematical phenomenom known as Pi. Pi is the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter which is approximately 3.14159.

It’s an opportunity for maths and pie enthusiasts to encourage learning about maths and also to eat pie. So, in the name of puns, we’ve put together some of our favourite pie recipes to make on our website www.familymatters-uk.co.uk.

You can try the delicious Korma pie below to start with and then cut it up using your knowledge of fractions to help celebrate March 14th!

One of the beautiful things about pie is that it is a dish that can be sweet or savoury, so whether you’ve got a sweet tooth or you’re looking for something to have for dinner, we’ve got you covered.

Korma Pie

This warm pie is full of Indian flavours and can be made vegetarian, vegan, gluten free or adapted any other way you fancy!

Ingredients: ∞ 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray ∞ 1 chopped onion ∞ 2 garlic cloves ∞ Grated ginger ∞ Korma curry powder (or the equivelant if you want something spicier, milder or in between!) ∞ Chopped tomatos ∞ 2 diced carrots ∞ 250g cubed butternut squash ∞ 300ml stock ∞ 250ml coconut milk ∞ 250g cauliflower and broccoli florets ∞ 320g rolled puff pastry (many ready made pastries offer dairy and gluten free options) ∞ Optional: diced chicken, 1 egg for glazing the pastry.

Method: Coat a frying pan with oil or spray and add the onion, garlic and ginger, cook until browned and then add the curry powder and chopped tomatoes. If you want to add meat to your pies, you can do so here. After a few minutes add the rest of the veg and the stock and simmer for 10 mins before adding the coconut milk. You will need to cook a little longer for meat pies and check that your meat is cooked all the way through before taking it off the heat. For vegetarian pies, cook for a further 10 minutes to reduce the sauce and then remove from the heat to let it cool.

Preheat your oven to 180 degrees and roll your pastry out. You can either make one large pie and serve slices or create individual pies. For a golden brown pastry, brush the top of the pie with the egg and cook for 10-12 minutes.

LATEST SCHOOL NEWS

EVENTS

DIARY DATES

YOUR SUCCESSES

News and Reviews MORE SCHOOLS BECOME ACADEMIES

ELMHURST AT WE THE CURIOUS

Leigh on Mendip First School, Shoscombe, St Julian’s and St John’s are the latest school to join the Midsomer Norton School’s Partnership Multi-Academy Trust.

Approved by the Secretary of State for Education, this conversion will allow each school to have more control over their day-to-day operations within the network offered by the multi-academy trust. The partnership now operates one First School, thirteen primary schools and three secondary schools.

At the end of last term, Year 4 pupils from Elmhurst School puzzled, questioned and probed their way through a fantastic trip to We the Curious in Bristol. Such a brilliant place to visit, We the Curious is hands-on and the children very enthusiastically got their hands on everything!

They built, designed, flew, engineered and discovered all while asking ‘what if’. They happily could have spent another day there, it is the perfect place to visit with young children during the school holidays!

WESTWOOD WITH IFORD SCHOOL CHRISTMAS FAIR SUCCESS! Once again the Friends of Westwood School put on another fantastic event, bringing together the entire community and village of Westwood in the most beautiful atmosphere with their Christmas Fair. Having transformed the school, each area looked so festive and welcoming that it is no wonder people were queueing at the door from 2pm to get in and see the vast array of stalls, crafts and games on offer!

From racing Santas to the ever popular Tombola, children’s games to festive fayre and with a widely stocked Christmas Cafe in one of the classrooms, visitors were entertained by a live broadcast from the fabulous Westwood Radio broadcasters playing throughout the school.

Some children even set up their own stalls again in one of our classes, all planned and organised in their own time. Every corner of the school was alive with Christmas joy and it made for such an enjoyable afternoon and the perfect way to get into the festive season.

Headteacher, Mr Rockey, said: “Our enormous thanks must go to our brilliant FoWs for their hard work, commitment and dedication to putting on such a super event. We raised a staggering £1378 and that is just tremendous.”

OAKFIELD PUPILS EXPERIENCE PRISON! Before the Christmas holidays, a group of pupils from Oakfield Academy enjoyed a prison experience day at Shepton Mallet Prison. The very popular trip received an avalanche of applications when it was introduced in an assembly with local PCSO Gary Maule. Pupils met with staff at the prison and experienced an arrest under role-play.

OAKFIELD’S ANNUAL GINGERBREAD DISPLAY! Oakfield Academy's annual gingerbread competition was once again an incredible success. The winning entry - London Bridge was a team entry by Nico Galbreath, Gethin Henley and Ronnie Downes. Runner up - Purple Bus, was a siblings entry from Edie and Day Ray. The overall standard of the entries was very high this year and visitors to the Oakfield's Christmas Fair were able to enjoy the fantastic display.

ukfamilymatters |

@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk | 15

CHILDREN IN NEED FUNDING SECURES THE FUTURE OF WE HEAR YOU’S COUNSELLING SERVICE Frome-based cancer counselling charity We Hear You (WHY) is celebrating the renewal and extension of its funding from BBC Children in Need. The new grant of £125,700 over three years marks a 20% increase on the previous three-year funding, which will be used to maintain and expand its children’s and young people’s services in Somerset and Wiltshire.

Fundraising Manager (Grants and Philanthropy) Ruth Knagg says ‘We’re delighted that Children in Need have chosen to continue their valued support of We Hear You. This money will enable us to add additional sessions to our children’s service in Frome and start a new in-school service at Oakfield Academy, as well as maintaining and/or expanding our services at Matravers School, Trowbridge and Street. A three-year grant represents much-needed security for a small charity like WHY and helps us to support young people who are coping with the devastating effects of a life threatening diagnosis. Thanks to Declan and his family for providing a case study and helping to raise awareness of our work as part of the 2018 Children in Need campaign.

We Hear You’s free professional counselling service is available to children, young people and adults affected by cancer or another lifethreatening condition at various locations across BaNES, Somerset and Wiltshire. They also offer group and online counselling for adults. For more information please email info@wehearyou.org.uk or call 01373 455255. Photo: WHY’s Ruth Knagg and Helen White with Declan Hurkett and Helen’s son Isaac.

Children’s Character Entertainment for Birthday Parties, Events & Occasions!

CONTACT US TODAY! www.littlegemprincessevents.co.uk littlegemprincessevents@hotmail.com CALL US ON 07498295839 Little Gem Princess Events littlegemprincess

OAKFIELD’S YMCA DONATION Following the huge success of Oakfield Academy's Christmas production 'Home for Christmas' (a story about the homeless during the festive season) the school was able to make a donation of £340.00 to the YMCA, Wells branch from the proceeds of ticket sales.

WESTBURY LEIGH REMEMBERS Westbury Leigh Primary School took time on Friday 9th November to stop, reflect and show their respects as part of a whole school Remembrance service.

The service was confidently led by the head and deputy boys and girls, with pupils from military families also making contributions. The children considered the significance of 100 years since the end of the First World War and also the symbol of the poppy through personal reflections and poems. Each child within the school had created a poppy which was displayed throughout the act of remembrance and after a laying of a wreath the display of poppies became the focal point whilst the school observed a 2 minute silence at 11am. The service was attended by both serving and ex-military personnel and having them attend in uniform illustrated to the children the importance of being thankful for those who have fought and those who continue to fight for our freedom.

KEEPING SAFE ONLINE AT WESTWOOD WITH IFORD PRIMARY SCHOOL At Westwood with Iford School, pupils have been learning how to be safe digital citizens and to use social media at their own level through an app called GoBubble.

Set up for under 13 year olds and open to schools and groups working with children, this is a brilliantly innovative concept that has given learners the opportunity to experience their own social media and digital citizenship in a completely safe environment where all users are uploaded and validated by their respective school and where all content is moderated by the GoBubble team. This avoids any inappropriate content or contact for children and allows them to enjoy the use of this app without the worry of anything unkind or unpleasant coming back.

Headteacher, Mr Rockey, said: “We have had the most wonderful sessions as we were able to jump straight in and group chat, just within ourselves, share photos, ideas and generally have a really productive and fun time.

We have also been able to develop our international links and make some new friends with schools in the USA and Canada.

“Through learning these skills at such a young age, children at our school will be able to maximise the use of technology, whilst understanding the potential risks.”

SELWOOD DEFIBRILLATOR Selwood Academy have very kindly been donated a defibrillator in memory of Mr Timothy Page. Pictured are the Head Boy and Girl, Mr Page’s family, Selwood’s Head of PE and a representative from the Somerset FA.

ROMAN MOSAICS AT WESTBURY LEIGH C of E PRIMARY SCHOOL Westbury Leigh C of E Primary School Year 4 class were recently visited by a local artist, who specialises in mosaic art. Each child had the opportunity to make their very own Roman themed coaster which they designed themselves. All children were taught how to cut each tile in to different shapes such as rectangles, squares, triangles and even circles. Some children created motif designs whilst others created repeating patterns. Children had to be careful with their colour choices to make sure they contrasted each other enough for their patterns to stand out. This took patience, perseverance and a very steady hand! The children were wonderful! Their finished tiles are being grouted and will be available to take home at the end of the topic.

POETRY AND ART AT VALLIS FIRST SCHOOL 150 children and their parents joined staff of Vallis First School for an evening of poetry and art inspired by the beautiful illustrated poetry book called ‘The Lost Words’ by Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris. This book was written in response to the news that children are losing touch with words from nature as they no longer use them in their everyday language.

The evening started with everyone watching a video recording of one of the famous Somerset starling murmurations on the Somerset Levels.

Families then spent the rest of their time creating beautiful poems and artwork inspired by nature and every family chose a favourite ‘lost’ word to write on one of the starling stencils.

Over the remaining week the other starlings were labelled with favourite ‘lost’ words from every child and staff in the school and the whole display was arranged to create an impression of a murmuration in the School Hall. Mrs Pauley, Headteacher said “ It was delightful to see children and their parents enjoying being creative together and we are amazed to see the beautiful display created as a result of everyone’s hard work.”

RECEPTION NATIVITY AT WESTBURY LEIGH The last few weeks leading up to Christmas is always guaranteed to bring Christmas cheer, excitement and joy to Westbury Leigh C of E Primary School! This year was no different when the Reception class took to the stage on Tuesday 11 December, kicking off our 2 Week of Christmas events to tell us the story of Jesus’ birth, in their first ever Nativity.

The children performed brilliantly; the EYFS team are all really proud of how brave the children were and the nativity show 2018 was a great example of how hard they’ve all worked, “it was a fab performance, the children had learnt their lines the costumes were amazing, the singing was great and they were all so brave”; “it was such a great performance and the children all worked so hard”. Well done to Reception, their teachers and the parents for their support and providing costumes.

ukfamilymatters |

@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk | 17

WOW

UPLOAD YOUR WOW! PHOTOS AND DETAILS TO OUR ONLINE WOW! FORM VISIT WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK

WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT Name: Edward Age: 7 Achievement: Cricket award.

Name: Samuel Tiley Age: 11 Achievement: Medals for swimming gala.

Name: Milo Bailey Age: 9 Achievement: Gained a Distinction in ABRSM Piano Grade 1 exam.

Name: Bethany Wall Age: 10 Achievement: Passed her 800m badge in swimming and competed in a swimming gala for her school.

Would you like to be a CHARITY WORK!

Sports awards!

THIS COULD BE YOU!

in WOW ?

MUSICAL TALENT!

CERTIFICATES OF ACHIEVEMENT! Just click the button!

Name: William Lake Age: 8 Achievement: Stage 3 Swimming.

We want to know all about it!

Take a photo on your mobile and upload to our website.

Easy!

submit your WOW photos here

www.familymatters-uk.co.uk 18 |

ukfamilymatters |

@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk

February Half Term Fun at The Bishop’s Palace This February, The Bishop’s Palace will kick off its annual children’s activities programme with a fun-filled February Half Term.

2019 will see a few changes to the regular holiday activities, with the popular family craft sessions moving to a Tuesday. The sessions will be called “Crafty Cats” and will take place every Tuesdays during school holidays in the medieval Undercroft.

This February Half Term, the family activities will be based around an “Outer Space” theme, with a children’s space-themed trail running throughout the holiday week, leading little ones on a journey around the Palace and Gardens.

On Tuesday 19th February, Crafty Cats will be making all things space-related, with alien masks, constellation lanterns and flying rockets amongst the activities on offer. The session will run from 10:30am-3pm and families can drop in at any time.

This year, our popular ‘Nature Ninjas’ sessions, which take place in the Gardens, will be held on Thursdays, giving children the chance to get up close with a range of nature experiences such as

pond dipping, minibeast hunting and seed sowing.

Come along on Thursday 21st February between 11am3pm to try out the first session of the year.

Don’t forget we have the fabulous Dragon’s Lair where little ones can let off steam on the natural play equipment, whilst exploring the themes of the Palace.

The Bishop’s Table café also has a great range of children’s meals and snacks, along with plenty to keep the grown ups happy too.

Family activities are included in standard admission and under 5’s are always FREE.

OPEN DAILY

Join us this February Half Term for a new, space-themed family trail, Tuesday family craft activities, and Thursday gardening fun. Make use of The Dragon's Lair Play Area and relax in our family-friendly Cafe.

crafty cats 19th FEb 10:30-3 nature ninjas 21st FEb 11-3

The Bishop's Palace, Wells, Somerset BAS 2 PD 01749 988111 www.bishopspalace.org.uk

HALF TERM WORKSHOPS PLAY IN A DAY MONDAY 18 FEBRUARY 10-2PM

SING-A-LONG THE GREATEST SHOWMAN THURSDAY 21 FEBRUARY 2PM

WEEKLY CLASSES MUSICAL THEATRE CLUB TUESDAYS 4.30 - 6PM AGES 7- 12 Sing and dance your heart out!

Students will learn song and dance routines from well known musicals and pop songs to perform at the end of term to parents and friends.

{TERM TIME ONLY}

TRI.IT DRAMA & MOVEMENT TUESDAYS 4 - 4.45PM AGES 3- 6 We will focus on basic stagecraft using play, music and heaps of imagination to create stories.

The group’s aim is to boost social skills and build confidence, whilst offering an introduction to the performing arts.

YOUTH THEATRE WEDNESDAYS 5PM - 7PM AGES 12 - 16

DRAMA CLUB SATURDAYS 10AM - 12PM AGES 8 - 12

This group explores a range of drama techniques, including character work and interpreting scripts, steering original ideas towards creating a quality public performance.

Great for building confidence! The group is also encouraged to attend performances, with some ticket prices included in the fee.

This group builds a serious enthusiasm for the performing arts! In a session that’s great for making friends and building confidence, you’ll learn a whole host of drama techniques. You’ll then work on devising your own piece of wonderful, creative and imaginative theatre.

tri-art.co.uk

Bath Road, Frome BA11 2HG | 01373 465949 | www.merlintheatre.co.uk