HEY! Magazine Mid Somerset edition

FREE • MID SOMERSET EDITION • ISSUE 49 • APRIL 2017

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WELCOME Director Tina Veater 07834 542955 | tina@ignyte-uk.co.uk Editorial Team Tina Veater info@ignyte-uk.co.uk Advertising Team Zoe Jenkins Theresa Saadeh Jane Groves 01761 410141 | info@ignyte-uk.co.uk Graphic Designer Pamela Evans Published by Ignyte Media Ltd Printed by Flying Colours Ltd, Weare, Somerset Business Address: Ignyte Media Ltd, Unit G5, Second Avenue, Westfield Industrial Estate, Radstock, BA3 4BH 01761 410141 info@ignyte-uk.co.uk 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.

Distribution: We deliver to 7500 families through primary schools and other outlets in the Wells, Shepton Mallet, Glastonbury and Street areas.

The next edition is in May & is filling fast.

Spring is on the way and this is the time when we start to look forward to lighter nights, evenings in the garden, milder weather and some gorgeous flowers to brighten our day.

Easter is not far way and it is always a great time of year to spend time as a family visiting some of our many attractions and enjoying days out. In the center pages of this edition you will find lots of ideas for places to go and things to do over Easter. Don’t miss the What’s On pages too where you will also find a host of events that are taking place throughout April.

Easter is the time of year when we eat significantly more chocolate then at any other time of year. Make sure that you limit the amount of chocolate your children eat each day. It is also important that children understand the meaning of Easter, let them read the piece on pages 6 and 7 so they have a better understanding of what Easter is really all about.

It is ‘Walk to School Week’ in May and you can read all about it in the magazine. This is always the perfect opportunity to leave the car at home and enjoy the early morning sunshine while strolling to school with the children. It is also recognized that children are more ready to learn when they have had some morning exercise, so if the walk is to not too onerous, maybe it is something you can do everyday?

I certainly hope that the spring will bring some sunshine for us all to enjoy.

Have a wonderful Easter break and enjoy as much time outside in the fresh air as you can.

Tina

Hey Magazine

@hey_tweeter

www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

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THE BENEFITS OF B VITAMINS WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF B VITAMINS?

There are eight different vitamins in the B vitamin group and all support vital functions in the human body.

They are: Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Pantothenic Acid, Pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), folate (folic acid) and vitamin B12.

B vitamins are integral to keeping our skin, eyes and nervous system working. They also help us to release energy from the food we eat.

Vitamin B6, folate and vitamin B12 are important in the formation of healthy red blood cells. Folate also plays a crucial role in fetal development.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN SOURCES?

B vitamins are found in natural foods.

Many are found in dark green leafy veg, meat, dairy, eggs, nuts and seeds, oily fish, legumes and fortified breakfast cereals (check the labels).

Most B vitamins are not stored in the body for future use, so you need to include them in your diet every day.

WHAT ARE THE DEFICIENCY RISKS?

Most people should be able to get enough B vitamins from eating a healthy, balanced diet. If you suffer from dietary diseases such as Crohn’s, do not eat a varied diet or eat a restricted diet (such as

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HOLIDAY COURSES

vegan) it is worth seeking advice on the supplements you should take. Always consult your GP before adding any supplements to your diet.

As B vitamins can help us to release energy, a lack of them in the diet can cause fatigue and general ill health. Some B vitamin deficiency can have other serious implications for the body.

A B6 deficiency can cause skin disorders and a rash or cracks around the mouth. It can also cause depression, confusion, anaemia and lower your immunity to infections.

Folate is crucial for pregnant women – too little leaves developing babies at risk from central nervous system defects, such as spina bifida. If you are trying for a baby you should take 0.4mg folic acid from the time you stop using contraception, until week 12 of your pregnancy.

Low levels of folate can also cause anaemia, which is characterised by breathlessness and fatigue.

A lack of B12 often leads to anaemia, which can cause confusion, depression, irritability, weakness, extreme fatigue and tingling in the hands and feet. Long-term deficiency can cause damage to the brain and nervous system.

B VITAMINS AND MENTAL HEALTH

The relationship between the B vitamin group and depression isn’t clear, however it is known that these vitamins play a role in producing brain chemicals that affect mood and brain function.

It is thought that vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies can increase the risk of poor mental health. The best way to ensure you get enough of these essential vitamins is to eat a varied, healthy diet.

Some people can develop a vitamin B12 deficiency. If your GP suspects this, they will perform a blood test and then treat you accordingly.

It is important to talk to your doctor before you take any B vitamin supplements as too much of certain B vitamins (such as B6) can lead to serious conditions such as liver damage, increased sensitivity to the sun or a loss of feeling in the arms and legs.”

Dr Alexandra Phelan is a working NHS GP and Online Doctor with Pharmacy2U. For more information go to www.Pharmacy2U.co.uk.

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30 HOURS FREE CHILDCARE IS MOST DEFINITELY NOT FREE C

harlotte Lucas, Founder and Coowner of Welton Free Rangers talks to us about the governments new plans for childcare. It's an interesting read and especially important for parents looking for childcare.

“From September 2017 the Government's promise of 30 hrs "Free" childcare is due to start. This latest initiative alongside the release of a new, poorly thought-out funding formula has meant the Early Years Sector across the country is up arms.

They are concerned that the Government's demands will drive down the quality of childcare, discourage highly qualified staff from entering the profession and make their businesses unsustainable. Everyone stands to lose if this scheme is rolled out in September and those set to suffer the most will be children.

In the West local nurseries and early years

settings are working hard to collaborate to raise awareness of these crucial issues, through a group called Best For The West. https://www.bestforthewest.com.

One member of Best for The West, nursery owner Charlotte Lucas from Free Rangers Forest School Nursery said: "The free childcare hours are far from free.

There is a significant shortfall in our hourly going rate and what the government pays us, as a business we can't swallow it for the next four years. Then we must factor in business rates increases, pension pay ins and the increase of minimum wages.

Settings will have to cut costs and inevitably it would mean decreasing the quality of childcare and education or driving up costs for those not entitled to funding. Either way we need families to get involved and demand a sensible level of funding from the government or for the government to reverse their promise of free childcare and describe it as subsidised."

OPEN DAILY

New easter EGG HUNT!

14th March Medieval Falconry

3rd April 'Nature Ninjas'

7th April

'Bonnets & baskets' family friday

14th april

'bunnies and chicks' Family friday

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Come on down to the Palace this Easter Holiday for a range of fantastic family activities from Medieval Falconry to Fun Fridays and Nature Ninjas! We've got a lovely Easter Egg Hunt with a chocolate prize to claim, and our new Dragon's Lair is ready and waiting for you to explore. All alongside 14 acres of gorgeous gardens to explore and a child-friendly cafe. Children under 5 go FREE!

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

Another member, Clare Crowther from Atelier Nursery in the centre of Bath commented, "Families are coming to us asking to reserve a 30 hrs place for their child or children.

Bath & North East Somerset are still unable to tell us our definite funding figure or the terms and conditions under which we must deliver the initiative, there is no way we can plan, forecast or even inform families of the way we'll progress until we have this vital information."

To conclude it appears that Early Years Settings across the Southwest desperately want to get on with what they do best, which is providing high quality Early Years Education.

But they need the support of families when it comes to understanding the unrealistic demands being made on their businesses and how that might affect the level of education their children access or the additional charges they most likely will incur”

Easter Family Fun at The Bishop’s Palace Keep little ones entertained this Easter Holiday with a range of fun activities at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells!

The holiday fun kicks off on Monday 3rd April from 11am3pm with “Nature Ninjas” – a day of family nature sessions in the Gardens with a range of activities including pond dipping, minibeast hunting, seed sowing and a garden trail!

On Friday 7th April from 10:30am-3pm families can head along to the Stable Yard Room for Family Fun Friday with a theme of “Baskets & Bonnets”. Our team of crafters will help little hands to create Easter Bonnets, Easter Baskets or a Mosaic Egg, there will also be an Easter trail around the site available.

For fans of Falconry, don’t miss the Palace’s Medieval Falconry Day on Good Friday (14th) from 10am-4pm when The Raptor Foundation will return to the South Lawn for a day of fantastic flying displays, entertaining information and beautiful birds!

Suitable for all ages, the displays will illustrate how these birds would have been used in Medieval times and why. Marvel at their skill and training as they show off their well-honed moves in front of the audience and in between displays, visitors can have the chance to handle some of the birds. On the same day, there will also be another Easter-themed Family Fun Friday, “Bouncing Bunnies and Chirpy Chicks” from 10:30am-3pm so don’t miss the craft activities too! The 14 acres of Gardens will be open daily throughout the Easter Holidays and the new Dragon’s Lair Play Area is the perfect place to give little legs a good spell of exercise – climb the Dragon’s Wings, explore the Tree Pods, crawl through the Dragon’s belly or pump the water to spill the bucket and send the Dragon to sleep – the choice is yours! Don’t forget The Bishop’s Table Café on site which is open daily serving child-friendly menus alongside lunches, cakes and hot drinks to refresh the grown ups too! All activities are included in standard admission.

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ALL ABOUT EASTER I

t’s a fact that for many of us Easter is first and foremost about chocolate. Confectionary eggs and bunnies of every size and colour festoon the shops, while children delight in gathering in as many chocolates as they can from family members. According to some sources, over 90 million chocolate Easter bunnies are made each year. But dig beneath the focus on sweets and chocolate and there is a wealth of fascinating stories, customs, traditions and science (namely astronomy!) that together explain why we celebrate Easter.

RELIGION

Easter is Christianity’s most important holiday and celebrates Jesus Christ’s resurrection from the dead three days after he was executed. The Easter story is at the heart of Christianity.

After Jesus was crucified on the Friday (now known as Good Friday), his body was taken down from the cross, and buried in a cave tomb. The tomb was guarded by Roman Soldiers and an

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enormous stone was put over the entrance, so that no-one could steal the body.

On the Sunday, Mary Magdalene, followed later by some of Jesus’ disciples visited the tomb and found that the stone had been moved, and that Jesus’ body had gone.

Jesus himself was seen that day by Mary and the disciples, and for forty days afterwards by many people. His followers realised that God had raised Jesus from the dead. Christians came to call this the Resurrection.

Easter is really an entire season of the Christian church year, as opposed to a single-day observance. Lent, the 40-day period leading up to Easter Sunday, is a time of reflection and penance and represents the 40 days that Jesus spent alone in the wilderness before starting his ministry, a time in which Christians believe he survived various temptations by the devil. The day before Lent, known as Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday, is a last hurrah of food and fun before the fasting begins.

The week preceding Easter is called Holy Week and includes Maundy Thursday, which commemorates Jesus’ last supper with his disciples. The 50-day period following Easter Sunday is called Eastertide and includes a celebration of Jesus’ ascension into heaven.

Easter has been called a moveable feast because it doesn’t fall on a set date every year, as most holidays do. Instead, Christian churches in the West celebrate Easter on the first Sunday following the full moon after the vernal (spring) equinox (more info on this in the box below). Therefore, Easter is observed anywhere between March 22 and April 25 every year.

Orthodox Christians use the Julian calendar to calculate when Easter will occur and typically celebrate the holiday a week or two after the Western churches, which follow the Gregorian calendar.

PAGAN ROOTS

The exact origins of the Easter bunny are clouded in mystery but one thing is certain – he is not mentioned anywhere in the Bible.

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One theory is that the symbol of the rabbit stems from pagan tradition, specifically the festival of Eostre—a goddess of fertility whose animal symbol was a bunny. Rabbits, known for their energetic breeding, have traditionally symbolized fertility. But the bunny is not the only animal to have an association with Easter and collecting eggs. In Switzerland, Easter eggs are delivered by a cuckoo, and by a fox in parts of Germany.

THE NAME

Similarly, the exact origins of this religious feast day’s name are unknown. Some sources claim the word Easter is derived from Eostre, as mentioned above – a Teutonic goddess of spring and fertility.

Other accounts trace Easter to the Latin term hebdomada alba, or white week, an ancient reference to Easter week and the white clothing donned by people who were baptised during that time.

Through a translation error, the term later appeared as esostarum in Old High German, which eventually became Easter in English. In Spanish, Easter is known as Pascua; in French, Paques.

These words are derived from the Greek and Latin Pascha or Pasch, for Passover. Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection occurred after he went to Jerusalem to celebrate Passover (or Pesach in Hebrew), the Jewish festival commemorating the ancient Israelites’ exodus from slavery in Egypt. Pascha eventually came to mean Easter.

THE INDUSTRY

In addition to Easter’s religious and cultural significance, it also has a thriving commercial side, as evidenced by the mounds of chocolate eggs and rabbits that appear in our shops each year. The

most popular chocolate egg worldwide is Cadbury’s Creme Egg, they first went on sale in 1971. The Bourneville factory can make 1.5 million Creme Eggs every day, 500 million are made each year with one third being exported overseas.

EQUINOX

An equinox is an astronomical event in which the plane of earth’s equator passes through the centre of the sun (in other words, the sun is exactly above the equator), which occurs twice each year, around 20 March and 23 September.

On an equinox, day and night are of approximately equal duration all over the planet. The March equinox marks the moment when the Northern Hemisphere starts to tilt toward the sun, which means longer, sunnier days.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the March equinox is called the vernal equinox because it signals the beginning of spring (vernal means fresh or new like the spring). The September equinox is called the autumn equinox because it marks the first day of autumn.

CALENDARS

The Gregorian Calendar, also known as the Western or Christian Calendar, is the most widely used calendar in the world today. Its predecessor, the Julian Calendar was replaced because it did not properly reflect the actual time it takes the earth to circle once around the sun, known as a tropical year.

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HATS ON FOR BRAIN TUMOUR RESEARCH! W

ear A Hat Day returns on Friday 31st March 2017 for the eighth year and it will be bigger, bolder and HATTIER than ever before with new celebrity ambassadors backing the campaign, including Debbie McGee, John Newman and Ed Balls, and new ways to get involved.

Debbie McGee, who lost Paul Daniels to a brain tumour in March last year, has teamed up with the charity Brain Tumour Research to produce a special ‘Rabbit in a Hat’ badge as a tribute to the great magician.

Ed Balls, Sheila Hancock CBE, Linda Robson, Sarah Beeny and Dr Dawn Harper will be featuring in the Wear A Hat Day advertising campaign.

Singer, songwriter and record producer John Newman, currently awaiting treatment for his second brain tumour, will also be raising awareness of the disease in the run-up to Wear A Hat Day. Focused on raising funds and awareness, the charity has partnered with Hobbycraft, the UK’s largest craft retailer, for their 2017 Wear A Hat Day campaign. Stores up and down the country will be running free in-store events and donating a percentage from sales of their exclusive Brain Tumour Research ‘Pink Glitter Side Hat’ to the charity. Hobbycraft’s hat-making workshops will take place between 12-3pm every Saturday in March.

Celebrated milliner to rock stars and royalty, Stephen Jones OBE, has created three one-off hats made from Hobbycraft products to celebrate the occasion. Fenwick, the independent chain of department stores, will be supporting the charity for the second year running.

Sue Farrington Smith MBE, Chief Executive of Brain Tumour Research, said: “Having such influential names embracing this campaign is a game-changing opportunity to raise awareness of this devastating disease and its chronic underfunding. The money raised, simply by having fun with hats, will go towards sustainable research that will bring us closer to a cure for brain tumours.”

Wear A Hat Day was launched by the charity Brain Tumour Research and is the culmination of Brain Tumour Awareness Month. The big day will see schools, workplaces, families and individuals across the UK fundraising and taking part in fun events to raise awareness of brain tumours and help fund lifesaving research.

Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. Funds raised through Wear A Hat Day 2017 will develop the charity’s network of world-class brain tumour research centres in the UK. To get involved, or donate, please visit: www.wearahatday.org Or text HAT to 70660 to donate £5* * Texts cost £5 plus network charge. Brain Tumour Research receives 100% of your donation. Obtain bill payer’s permission. Customer care 01908 867200. Charity no. 1153487 (England & Wales) SC046840 (Scotland).

WALK TO SCHOOL WEEK J

oin thousands of teachers and children across the country celebrating the benefits walking brings during this year’s Walk to School Week (15 – 19 May).

Walk to School Week is organised by Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking and takes place during National Walking Month each May. Last year, over 14,000 classes took part; that’s around 400,000 children walking to school.

Walk to School Week 2017 challenge packs are available and perfect to further encourage children to give walking a go. Each challenge pack contains everything you need to run the five-day walking challenge for a class of up to 30 pupils, including a classroom wall chart, teacher and pupil wall chart stickers, pupil activity diaries and teacher instructions.

This year’s challenge will take pupils on an imaginary journey from the dramatic skylines of the city, via rolling countryside, to charming coastal areas. Each day, activities and games will enable pupils to explore key features of each environment, whilst also enjoying the many benefits of a daily walk to school.

Step up the fun during Walk to School Week by taking part in Happy Shoesday. On the Tuesday of Walk to School Week, primary school pupils, parents and teachers across the UK raise money for our walking projects by wearing their happy shoes and donating £1.

Schools become healthier and happier places when children walk to school. Walking to school is a free, accessible and easy way for children to build more activity into the day, helping them maintain a healthy weight, plus physically active children are more alert, ready to learn and achieve better grades than those who are driven.

Shiny, decorated, colourful, cartoon, gorilla feet - whatever gets them smiling on their walk to school. Register your school and we will send you a free fundraising pack, plus all sorts of fun materials to help make running the day a big success. The money raised from Happy Shoesday goes to Living Streets to support the charity’s work with schools, disability groups and local communities, and campaigning work to make UK streets safer for everyone.

A huge 23 per cent of peak-time traffic is made up from those on the school run, so the more children walking, the less congestion and pollution there is on local roads, making school gates a safer place.

Despite all these benefits, the number of children walking to school is in serious decline. Just 46 per cent of children walk to school now compared to 70 per cent of their parents’ generation.

We want to reverse this decline and prevent the problems associated with inactivity, and Walk to School Week is a great way to start.

Challenge your school to walk every day during Walk to School Week and make a real difference to your children's happiness and wellbeing.

Find out more about Walk to School Week at www.livingstreets.org.uk/walktoschool

SHOP AROUND & SAVE A GRAND! A

lthough it might seem to make sense to shop around, many people are missing a few financial tricks by not taking the time to make sure they are getting the best price for the things they are buying - whether on a day-to-day basis or for special occasions.

There are plenty of simple ways to make significant savings on your regular spending that could clear the debt many times over in less than a year.

For example, are you getting the best deal on your mortgage?

Have a look around, because switching could save literally thousands of pounds.

Another regular cost worth looking at is fuel bills. The domestic market is competitive and you can change supplier easily online.

You could also have a water meter, particularly if you have a larger home and the family is reducing in size. Most water companies have calculators so you can see if you can save money.

When buying food, make a shopping list and stick to it. As a nation we spend money on products we didn't intend to buy -

thanks to the great marketing efforts of the big supermarkets.

And is it really worth buying brands or designer labels? Own label products are usually just as good but considerably cheaper.

If you do have some branded goods why not sell them? If you haven't used the stuff in your cupboard for over a year, the chances are you never will.

Insurance is important but you don't have to keep renewing with the same company year after year. Shop around - you'll be surprised at the possible savings on anything from house and motoring insurance to pet, travel and life cover.

Other ways of saving include taking advantage of offers on websites such as Groupon and Wowcher - which have a range of offers every day from hairdressing to fashion, holidays and more.

Of course it takes a bit of commitment to look for the best deals but if you are facing the average debt and are prepared to put the effort in, you could clear it within a year and still have everything you wanted.

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TEN TIPS FOR

THE PERFECT FAMILY DAY TRIP I

t’s Spring! School is out and already the children are bored.

Perhaps your ‘big’ holiday is already done and dusted, or is some way off. Either way, it’s time to think about a family day trip.

And whether your trip is to a local beauty spot for a picnic or somewhere further afield, be sure to prepare thoroughly for the perfect day out.

PLAN YOUR DAY

Allowing bags of time. The greatest thing you can take – whether sightseeing or getting from A to B – is extra time. Young children love to explore and don’t care for the time pressures of travel, so you’re more likely to all retain your cool if you factor the faffing, toilet stops and, dare we say it, tantrums into your timeframe.

BOOK/RESEARCH AHEAD

If you’re going to a special event, place or restaurant, it pays to book ahead, or check opening hours if this is more relevant. If you arrive at your destination to find you can’t get a seat, need to wait an hour for lunch, the museum is closed on Mondays, or whatever, then tempers will soon flare. And there’s nothing more demoralising than having to hit the road again with tired, hungry children melting down in the backseat. So, where you can, do your homework before you leave home…

BAG OF ESSENTIALS

For going anywhere, even on a very short trip, keep a small bag containing all your essential ‘bits’ - a couple of wipes, tissues, some kitchen towel, sun cream, anti-septic cream, plasters and any prescription medicines/inhalers etc.

INVOLVE THE KIDS

When you’re planning your trip, encourage your children to find out about where you’re going. Let everyone choose one activity, if that is viable, so it’s truly a family trip that involves everyone.

DOCUMENT YOUR TRIP

Hang on to bits and pieces from the day as keepsakes: tickets, brochures, a couple of postcards, etc. Your children can then make create a way to remember their day when they get home – and share their experience at Show & Tell at school or nursery.

LET THE KIDS TAKE SOME PHOTOS

If you have a suitable device or camera, or the kids have their own device, encourage them to take some pictures. It’s another way to get the kids more fully involved with the day, and allows them to record the trip from their perspective, which will be very different from yours!

GET ALL YOUR DUCKS (AND DUCKLINGS) IN A ROW

If you’re going on holiday with another family, make sure you discuss the basics before you go - for example what everyone wants to do, whether you’ll all stick together each day or whether you’ll spend time doing things apart, what you’ll do for meals…

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CONSIDER NEEDS OF TODDLERS AND VERY YOUNG CHILDREN

For young children, even if they are generally good walkers, it’s often a good idea to still take a buggy. It’s always useful for carrying your bags and is good if they need a rest or get tired in a restaurant.

TAKE SOME ACTIVITY STUFF

Whether it’s to cover a long wait in a café for food, or you’re trapped in a delayed train, you never know when you might need to suddenly occupy the kids. So take paper pads and crayons. A must-have for any urban trip!

TAKE HEALTHY SNACKS AND WATER

Similarly, you need to be prepared for any delays to normal mealtimes, so take plenty of healthy (ish) snacks like breadsticks, carrot sticks, grapes, raisins etc. Filling up on sweets and chocolate could mean kids are more likely to get travel sick, or get a sugar rush at an inopportune time.

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PUZZLES Crossword Find the answers to the questions below and fill in the crossword.

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Colour me i n !

ACROSS 2. Baby sheep 5. Colour of grass 6. Eating too much will give you tummy ache 7. The season Easter is in 8. Easter is on this day 10. Animal that has large ears and a fluffy tail

DOWN 1. What do you do with an Easter Egg 3. Easter ? What you wear on your head 4. Boiled egg holder 6. Religious symbol 9. Yellow spring flower 11. Hot cross ___

HEY! competitions WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO YEOVILTON AIR DAY RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day on the 8th July is an action packed day out for all the family. Thrilling flying displays will include the Sea Vixen, Red Arrows, Typhoon, Spitfire Hurricane, Lancaster and the Swiss Air Force display team – The Patrouille Suisse. There is also plenty of ground attractions to keep you entertained all day long.

To win, answer this question: What type of aircraft is a Sea Vixen?

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO THE ROYAL BATH AND WEST SHOW! Over 4 days from 31st May to 3rd June, there are action packed events for all of the family, and a haven for all enthusiasts of rural life.

Agriculture is at the heart of the Show with over 4500 Livestock, Sheep Shearing, machinery from the past 100 years and the very latest farming technology. Entertainment is on tap with attractions in the main ring ranging from top class Show-Jumping to the grand parade of prize winning animals, whilst the Living Countryside arena showcases the Great British Countryside.

To win, answer this question: What town is the show held in?

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning these fantastic prizes, simply visit www.familymatters-uk.co.uk and click on the Competitions button, complete the form and enter your answers. It couldn’t be easier!

Closing date for entries: 28th April 2017

WINNERS FROM THE LAST ISSUE: Amelia Manfield, Darcie Benson, Edward Nielsen, Lily Seaward, Ruby Gaisford, Jessica Brown The13th 13thAnnual Annual The

& THE U O ING Y IN...

V I G TO W T TO ARE E C CHAN CAMPING TOICVKEER £350!

2nd- -4th 4thJune June2017, 2017,Cheltenham CheltenhamRacecourse Racecourse 2nd Nominated ‘Best Family Festival’ Every Year

First Band Announcements:

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Fun for everyone- 100 artists on 4 stages, 100 workshops and activities for all ages, comedy, kids literature festival, Real Ale festival, The Headphone Disco, idyllic camping, all in an intimate setting, plus loads more!

DAY & WEEKEND TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Under 5s & Parking Free.

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LOOKIT COOKIT I

t doesn't take you long to realise that Judy Jackson's attempt at getting kids interacting with food has a very different approach to other cook books. In fact, one look at the 'Un-contents' alone (a list of what isn't in the book) will suffice:

faces thanks to its decidedly unhealthy youngsters, and the constant relationship between edibles deemed to be "fun" and junk, it was only really a matter of time until someone came along with an idea like this.

No long recipes or lists of ingredients you don’t have.

No mention of eating five-a-day or hiding vegetables in a sauce.

Fruit and the green things are not to be taken like medicine, before you’re allowed dessert.

No instructions for making Chocolate Rice Krispies - if you want to get messy fingers there are more exciting things to cook - like Sticky Chicken Wings or Blueberry Pancakes.

So by developing these unique tasks and challenges, which are in themselves recipes, the author has created a somewhat psychological road map to instilling good eating habits in our little ones. Rather than simply being a case of explaining which ingredients need to be mixed in order to serve up a dish, instead they are given an insight into why flavours are the way they taste, various methods of cooking, and how a healthy, mixed diet can be delicious, exciting and doesn't need to involve parental tricks.

Thus appealing to their desire for independence.

With that in mind, it's probably best to focus on what Lookit Cookit does offer, which is plenty. Jackson, a food writer herself, has compiled over 25 kitchen games, 130 photos and innumerable hours of research to deliver a publication that aims to do two key things: encourage children to enter the kitchen, and get them interested in food. Not least, what goes into a dish and why those elements may appeal to their palate.

The idea presumably being that when people are more aware of what it is they are eating, their diets usually reflect this with a focus on healthier options. Given the ongoing problems Britain

Each "game" comes with a star rating, making it easy to work out the age a child should be in order to take it on. The selection offered ranges from the simplest tasks to preparing an entire three-course meal, the latter best reserved for older youngsters.

The final tasting, then, is an addition to the culinary bookshelf that families are likely to revisit time and time again, making for both a worthwhile investment in advance of inevitable rainy days to come, and a shrewd purchase on the part of anyone that wants their kids to understand that they are what they eat.

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April 1

What’s On

1st Easter Egg Hunt at East Harptree Woods Enjoy a walk through the beautiful woods of East Harptree woods searching for clues... and your reward will be chocolate eggs for the children and cakes for the adults. Tickets are £3 in advance for children (£4 on the door) adults are free. Tickets are available from East Harptree shop, the nursery or from committee members. The route is not buggy friendly so backpacks for infants will be required.

All in aid of East Harptree Nursery Preschool and Forest School.

April 1 - 17

Easter Trail at Hestercombe The Easter bunny has dropped the contents of his basket around the Hestercombe gardens. Can you find everything that has fallen out?

Follow the clues and collect a chocolate treat and an egg to decorate at the end. Trail: £1.50 per child. Normal admission applies.

April 3

Forest School for all the Family, 2pm - 4pm Join in the fun and follow our trail-game along the Sweet Track to discover some of its wildlife and the mysteries of ancient man living on the marshes. For further information and to book a place please contact Julie Merrett by e-mail: julie.merrett@ naturalengland.org.uk or telephone 01458 860120.

April 3

Nature Ninjas at The Bishops Palace Join Amanda in our Community Garden for activities including pond dipping, minibeast hunting, seed sowing and a garden trail.

April 4

Family Fun Day at Carymoor Environmental Centre Join us for 2 hours of crafts, trails and activities as we celebrate the arrival of Spring! Booking essential: For more information or to book a place for your family phone 01963 351350 or e-mail: education@carymoor.org.uk

April 7

Bonnets & Baskets Family Fun Friday at The Bishops Palace. Join our team in the Stable Yard Room for this Easter Holiday Family Fun Friday with a theme of “Baskets & Bonnets.

April 8 - 23

Go Wild - Grow Wild at Farrington Farm Join us for springtime fun throughout the Easter holidays. Make a clay flowerpot, Easter Trail, Farm trailer ride, free entry to Farm Park. Cost £5 per child. 10am - 3pm daily.

April 8 - 23

Lacock Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt The Easter bunnies are visiting Lacock and are having great fun on the Lacock, camera, artists trail around the abbey grounds. Please note that there is a charge of £2.00 per trail, this is on top of the normal admission charge. 10.30am - 5.30pm. Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 2LG.

April 8

Bristol Rocks Rocks, fossils and minerals can tell us the most amazing things about our planet… and they look pretty stunning too!

This family Geology Take Over day at the museum is for all ages, with loads to do and see including dressing up, games, tours behind the scenes of the museum and chatting with geologists.

Bristol rocks! 11am - 4pm Bristol Museum.

April 12 - 15

Phoenix Keynsham Youth Theatre presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat Broadlands Academy, St Francis Rd, Keynsham. Book tickets on 07437 958 046 or e-mail phoenixkyt@outlook.com £10 each for adults or £8 for concessions.

April 13

Holiday Family Fun at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery Explore our fabulous collections and exhibitions through creative and hands-on activities. Holiday Family Fun is suitable for 3-10 year olds with accompanying adult.

April 14

Medieval Falconry at The Bishops Palace Join us to welcome the Raptor Foundation for a day of fantastic flying displays, entertaining information and beautiful birds in the romantic setting of the palace.

April 14 - 16

Easter weekend pottery at Enigma Pottery Drop in Pottery Painting or Making 10am until 4pm. Paint a premade pottery piece (prices range from £5 to £50, no studio fee) or make something from scratch (£15 per hour including materials and firings). 01373 452079 jbarton@enigmapottery.co.uk

April 14 - 17

Bowoods Easter Trail Visit Bowood House and Gardens this Easter to take part in an Easter Bunny Trail through the beautiful grounds. Normal House & Gardens admission applies. Complimentary to Season Tickets Holders. 11am - 5pm Bowood House & Gardens, Calne, Wiltshire.

April 15 - 16

Glastonbury Medieval Fayre featuring Knights Jousting, Guns & Cannons Longbow Archery, Medieval Falconry, Melee Battles, Wicker Weaving, Living History Medieval Market, Cafe & Hog Roast, Medieval Tavern, Live Music and Medieval Cookery. Tickets available on the door. 10am - 6pm. Glastonbury Abbey, Glastonbury.

April 15

See The Gruffalo at West Somerset Railway Join us at the West Somerset Railway for a great family day out at Minehead Railway Station. The Gruffalo will be making personal appearances at intervals between 10am and 4pm.

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News and Reviews LATEST SCHOOL NEWS

EVENTS

DIARY DATES

YOUR SUCCESSES

ASHCOTT ARE SOMERSET ESFA (SMALL SCHOOLS) RUNNERS-UP 2016-2017 Ashcott Primary School football team took part in the English Schools Football Association county finals tournament at Bridgwater College this week. 12 schools from all across Somerset took part, all of whom had come either first or second in their local area tournaments in order to qualify for the county finals.

After coming first in their pool of 6 schools in the first round, Ashcott qualified, unbeaten, for the semi-final where they won 3-1.

In the final they faced tough opposition from Winford Primary School and the game ended 1-0 to Winford. This was a close tournament between local small schools from all across Somerset, well supported by students from Bridgwater College who refereed the matches. Well done to all of the players who took part!

COXLEY SCHOOL ASSEMBLIES Children and parents at Coxley School have enjoyed two ambitious and lively community assemblies this month. As part of the whole school Predators topic, Yarley Class shared a selection of brilliant writing, including some very interesting facts about animals. They also performed a song from The Jungle Book, complete with masks, dancing and audience participation!

In Hay Class, children held a film premier event to screen their version of BBC’s Spy in the Wild called Spy in the Field. The children had made camera housings as a DT project, which they placed in the school field with a motion sensitive camera. After many days and nights outside, the footage of cats and many different types of bird was incredible.

EASTER

EGGSTRAVAGANZA

Saturday 15th April from 11am for our Easter Egg Hunt of the year!

MILITARY WIVES

CHARITY CONCERT & SUPPORTING ACTS

Sunday 14th May. Music 2-5pm.

Tickets £10 - complimentary food & drink All proceeds to Macmillan Cancer Support

Open daily 9-5pm from April 1st until the beginning of September!

COLLETT PARK, SHEPTON MALLET WWW.COLLETTPARKCAFE.COM

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SCIENCE CRIME SCENE AT MEARE SCHOOL. To raise the profile of Science in school, I organised a wholeschool Science week with a forensic science theme. The children came to school to see a police car and PCSO in the playground, and were introduced to the crime scene in the hall. Something had been taken and all four class teachers were suspects! The children had to visit a series of workshops throughout the week and gather evidence to solve the crime. These included finger-printing, soil analysis, ink analysis and creating photofits where the children were able to develop a whole range of cross-curricular skills.

Children had the opportunity to work in their house groups, meaning the workshops had children from reception-year 6 and enabled the older children to support the younger ones which is always successful.

The children were also visited by outside organisation Fizz Pop Science who delivered an exciting Science Assembly on Weds morning, and had the opportunity to continue their learning at home with balloon-powered getaway cars.

Cheddar Crazy Golf Family Fun for all ages

18 hole course in attractive setting Open daily from 11am

Only £4 per player 01934 741112 The Cliffs, Cheddar BS27 3QE info@cheddarcrazygolf.co.uk

Join us for wildlife themed fun at Carymoor this Easter!

Family Fun Day ‘Signs of Spring’ Tues 4th April – 10-12pm & 2-4pm Future Fields Naturalists Club ‘Perfect Ponds’ Thurs 6th April – 2-4pm Booking essential education@carymoor.org.uk 01963 351350

www.carymoor.org.uk

MOSQUE VISIT The children from Priddy & St Lawrence’s visited the ‘Shahjalal Jame Mosque’ in Bristol as part of their curriculum studies in RE. The children were introduced to the traditions and beliefs of the Islamic Faith, taking part in some of the traditions and understanding their beliefs. The children were able to study the features of a mosque and explore the differences and similarities between a Christian Church and a Mosque.

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ECO-FASHION SHOW

Evercreech Primary School had a fun day at school for World Book Day and the children looked amazing.

The Ditcheat School eco-team was delighted to invite a number of other schools to join in with their inaugural eco-fashion show.

North Cadbury, Castle Cary and Shepton Juniors were all keen to be involved and worked hard throughout the day.

Dawn Hunt the class teacher, who runs the eco-club, came up with the idea and was keen to link up with other schools and put on this exciting event.

The children spent the morning designing and making their costumes. In the afternoon they rehearsed their speeches and practised walking along the catwalk. Towards the end of the afternoon the rest of the school, along with a number of parents, watched the eco-warriors step up onto the stage and parade their costumes.

Poppy from Ditcheat commented, “It was a great way to achieve our ‘Green Flag’ award and also get to know children from other schools.”

WINTER SPORTS Children at St Cuthbert’s Infants school have been enjoying winter sports. Last year they had their very own ice rink brought to their school and this year the sports leaders helped plan a trip to the Mendip Sports Centre where they have had to chance to either have a ski lesson or go tobogganing. The children all had a fabulous time whizzing down the slopes: ‘this is my best day ever’ shouted a year one boy in delight.

The coach home was very quiet with all the children healthily tired out from their fun outdoor energetic activities! The staff at the centre made the day even more special by being so welcoming, helpful and kind.

They really helped the children to progress and every child achieved in rapid time. The school would like the staff at the centre for the warm welcome they received and for a truly magical day.

Classrooms available, parking for coaches, toilets, disabled facilities, picnic area and our mini-marshes discovery zone

Teachers - Sign your pupils

up to nature at RSPB Avalon Marshes near Glastonbury

To find out more contact: jane.allen@rspb.org.uk Tel: 01458 860494. For our full programme visit: www.rspb.org.uk/schoolvisits

Programme: EYFS and Key Stage 1 • Brilliant Birds • Discovering Pond Minibeasts • Discovering Land Minibeasts • Seasonal Sensory Walk • Plant Detectives (KS1) Key Stage 2 • Rocks and Soils • Investigating Minibeasts • Living Things and their Habitat • Pond Habitat Study • Discovering Birds

Half day visits costs from £3.50 per primary child all year round.

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LONDON VISIT Key Stage Two children from The Fosse Federation of Schools (Evercreech and Lovington Primary Schools) visited Kidzania in London last term. This trip was aimed at teaching the children essential life skills including financial literacy, team work and independence. All of the children and staff involved found this to be a thoroughly rewarding and educational experience

OAKHILL SCHOOL CELEBRATE WITH A TEA PARTY At Oakhill School, the children and staff dressed up as their favourite character from Alice in Wonderland to celebrate World Book Day on 2nd March. The day ended with a fabulous Mad Hatter’s Tea Party.

PRIDDY SCHOOL WORKING WITH ROTARY CLUB OF MENDIP Children at Priddy School have been busy during Forest School working with the Rotary Club of Mendip and have made a grand total of four nest boxes and four bug hotels to put up in the school grounds. The children are now looking forward to seeing who moves in!

BROWNES GARDEN CENTRE COME AND RELAX IN OUR COFFEE SHOP AND THEN SELECT FROM OUR LARGE SELECTION OF CONTAINER GROWN SHRUBS, CONIFERS & PERENNIALS ROSES, FRUIT & ORNAMENTAL TREES HUGE SELECTION OF TERRACOTTA & GLAZED POTS PLUS ALL YOUR GARDEN SUNDRY REQUIREMENTS Open 9am - 5.30pm Mon to Sat, 10am - 5pm Sun Coffee Shop open every day 10.30am - 4pm

GLASTONBURY ROAD WELLS, 01749 673050 Open Good Friday, Easter Monday 10am – 5pm

SCHOOL OF ROCK We have been rocking at St Cuthbert’s Infants School. The Infants have been visited by Rock Steady. They have been running workshops for the children, who have had a wonderful time trying out the different instruments. We may soon have a St Cuthbert’s Rock band!

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WOW

EMAIL US YOUR WOW! PHOTOS AND DETAILS TO INFO@IGNYTE-UK.CO.UK

WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT

Ruby Tidball aged 8 from St Benedicts School has been awarded gold medals in ballet and tap.

Congratulations Ruby, all your hard work was worth it.

Connor aged 7 had earned a certificate from Millfield Football for having a great attitude for the week on the Spring course. Well done Connor.

Lola aged 6 has achieved her stage 7 swimming certificate.

Great job Lola.

Freddie has won medals for participating in 2 football matches. Well done Freddie.

Harriet aged 6 has gained her British Gymnastics certificate, level 5. Excellent work Harriet.

Harriet aged 4 has earned a merit award for her positive attitude and independence.

Keep up the great work Harriet.

Boe aged 5 has been awarded a certificate for good sportsmanship. Well done Boe.

Hugo aged 5 has achieved a certificate from British Gymnastics level 7 and also gained his 5m swim award. Fantastic work Hugo.

Jacob aged 6 has been given a merit award for his super enthusiasm in writing and also a terrific work award for his progress and hard work. Amazing job Jacob.

Annabel aged 9 has gained her British Gymnastics level 3 certificate and also her stage 4 swimming award.

Excellent job Annabel.

Poppy Marks age 7 from St Benedicts and sister Lily age 5 from St Johns passed their first tap dancing exam.

Well done girls.

Easter Farmers’ Market Saturday 15th April 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Children’s Willow Workshop Food, Drink and Craft Stalls Free Entry

www.coatesenglishwillow.co.uk Willows & Wetlands Visitor Centre, Stoke St Gregory, Taunton, Somerset, TA3 6HY

01823 490249