Family Matters May edition - South Bristol

SOUTH BRISTOL EDITION

ISSUE 43 • MAY 2018

FORMERLY

Don't let hayfever take over

Win

Camp Bestival tickets

Celebrating

dad!

WHAT NOT TO SAY TO STAY AT HOME DADS

DEAF AWARENESS

www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

WOW! ACHIEVEMENTS

‘Taking it personally’ is one of our key qualities We are recruiting Support Workers, Shift Leaders, Catering Assistants and Registered Nurses at our Community Resource Centres & Extra Care Services at the following locations:

Avondown House, Twerton The Orchard, Combe Down Hawthorn Court, Keynsham Greenacres, Midsomer Norton

We are recruiting!

Sirona care & health is a Community Interest Company committed to providing integrated health and social care services to people across Bath, North East Somerset and South Gloucestershire.

For us, it’s about the personal approach; we take pride in what we do and deliver the high standard of care that we’d expect for ourselves and our families.

In return we offer an excellent range of benefits including; • Generous holiday entitlement • Paid enhancements (where applicable) • A contributory pension scheme • Planned induction program • Flexible working patterns • Childcare vouchers • In-house physiotherapy support and more!

St John’s Court, Bathwick Cleeve Court, Twerton Charlton House, Keynsham Combe Lea, Midsomer Norton

Hourly Pay Rates (Bank) Catering Assistants & Housekeepers: Standard: £8.52 / Enhanced: £12.78 Support Workers: Standard: £9.83 / Enhanced: £14.75 Shift Leaders: Standard: £11.40 / Enhanced: £17.10 Registered Nurse Standard: £15.99 / Enhanced: £23.99 (Enhanced rate inc. nights, weekends and bank holidays)

Annual Salaries (Permanent) Support Workers: £14,812 - £17,618 Shift Leaders: £17,114 - £21,636 Registered Nurse Up to £28,591 basic (not inc. enhanced rates)

For more information or request an application form, please visit www.sirona-cic.org.uk or call the Recruitment Team on 0300 1245444

WELCOME Hello and welcome to the May Half Term issue of Family Matters!

After the Easter holidays and the weeks leading up to it were filled with snow and Arctic conditions, I’m sure we’re not the only ones looking forward to a bit more sunshine and nicer weather! With many of you starting to plan out your Whit Week and Bank Holiday activities, make sure to flick through to our What’s On section to see what is happening in the area to keep the kids (and you!) amused over the next few weeks.

With the warmer weather under way, many of us will be reaching for the anti-histamines and the tissues, so be sure to check out our top tips for helping the allergy suffers in your house hold – they don’t have to miss out on the Summer fun because of runny eyes and sniffly noses!

This issue is jam packed with features, advice and of course, all the achievements and news from our local schools, so make sure to grab yourself a cup of tea and find a nice sunny spot to sit and enjoy!

p7 HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT SUMMER SCHOOL?

p5 TRAVELLING POST-BREXIT p9 DON'T LET HAYFEVER TAKE OVER

p10 DEAF AWARENESS 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

Music and Arts Festival LOGO

August 2nd, 3rd, 4th, & 5th

Space, From the Jam, Doctor and the Medics, Gaz Brookfield and the Company of Thieves, Mark Archer (Altern-8), Dr Meaker (Live), Funke and the Two Tone Baby, Dry White Bones, A.Skillz Copy elements

Flash Harry, Time Travellers, Irie Fire, Burnout 13, N.U.M.B, Spirit Level, Mohawk Radio, some Villians, The Weeds, The Super-Rich, Recovering Satellites, Shuffle Brothers, ChĂŠ

WWW.SATINAFIELD.COM Nr Cheddar, Somerset

Background colour choice 1 Background colour choice 2

Design element 1

Free Children’s Activities, over 150 acts, and 4 nights of camping under the stars!

Bottom edge design

TRAVELLING POST-BREXIT

If you’re anything like us, you’re probably bored of hearing about Brexit and the various horror stories attached to it, but for anyone who is looking at booking next year’s summer holidays, there are a few things that need to be taken into consideration.

While there has been some stink kicked up about the status of passports in recent news articles, firstly about their colour, then where they were printed and when the public would get them and if it would mean existing passports would suddenly be invalid, not much time has been dedicated to other important elements of travel. The need for VISAs for instance, what to do about your EHIC cards and what will happen in regards to flight disruptions if agreements over airspace aren’t reached by the time the summer rolls around.

The UK government has confirmed that new blue passports will begin being issued in October 2019, to save the tax payer money, they will be introduced slowly with burgundy passports continuing to be issued just without reference to the European Union in the interim and anyone with existing passports need not do anything until their renewal date, when they will then be issued with the newer design.

It is the travelling itself that may cause a bit more concern.

Travel Weekly reported that airlines based in the UK are drawing up contingency plans for passengers whose bookings are for after March 2019, as although these might be booked in advance, there is no guarantee that they will be able to travel. The warning applies to all tickets sold to EU destinations and up to 17 other countries where UK airline’s flight rights are controlled by European agreements. Though it is unlikely

that existing arrangements would change too drastically, any future aviation deals between the UK and the EU could result in increasing costs or entirely new routes. Some travel agents have already altered their terms and conditions to take into account holidays leaving the UK for Europe after March 2019, so if you’ve booked next year’s holiday or are preparing to, make sure to check these carefully.

At the moment, the future of travel will be unable to be guaranteed until aviation arrangements are confirmed.

Particularly anyone booking a non-package holiday should check these carefully to ensure they wouldn’t be left in limbo as they wouldn’t be covered under the Abta scheme.

If that wasn’t enough to be thinking about, the European Union are working on a VISA scheme, similar to that used in the United States, the scheme, currently known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, or ETIAS, is a system in place for citizens of non-EU countries who do not currently need VISAs as part of their continuing projects to tighten borders. Users will need to register their details and intentions online before they travel, but doing so still may not guarantee they will be admitted into the country they want to visit. More details on VISAs and the ETIAS will be made clear when more negotiations are made, but certainly anyone with holiday plans in place should check the small print and keep their eyes peeled for news on EHIC coverage and changes to passport control. If you have any worries about travelling next summer, speak to your travel agent or holiday provider.

ukfamilymatters |

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

Accommodation & Riding Holidays Pony Trekking Riding Lessons Picnic and Play Area Refreshments Corporate Facilities RDA Centre

www.wellowtrekking.com 01225 834376

Kingswood Gymnastics and Trampoline Club Enrolling now for courses in Gymnastics and Trampolining for children 4-12 yrs Holiday fun sessions Tues 29th May, Thurs 31st May and Fri 1st June ÂŁ14 per child, just come along (bring packed lunch) Saturday Fun Club 10.30-12pm ÂŁ6 per session

Birthday Parties and Pre-school sessions available, 1-1 Trampoline lessons and Rebound Therapy Call 01179476449 or visit

www.kingswoodgymnastics.co.uk

Get involved! follow us: ukfamilymatters UkFamilyMatters

SUMMER SCHOOLING A School Holiday Childcare Solution?

As the summer holidays approach, you might be starting to worry about what you’re going to do with the kids over the weeks while your life continues as usual. Do you rope in relatives to keep them out of trouble? Use up your valuable holiday time? Have you considered looking into a local summer school? Many organisations and educational facilities hold courses during the six-week holiday and though the idea of staying at school out of term time might not be as appealing to your child as it is to you, there are many benefits to enrolling in these classes.

pa int ing an "I lov ed sp en din g th e su mm er ma kin g craft s."

Many summer schools, such as theatre or dancebased ones involve physical activity, which will cut down the amount of time your kids are sat indoors on computers or in front of a TV. Aside from the fact that it gets you out of arranging adult supervision for them, it will give them a chance to engage with something they’re interested in with other people their age and ensures that there will be some form of exercise going on. Of course, it also gives the opportunity to develop their talents and social skills.

As well as keeping them active, summer schools are great at helping build confidence and independence.

Some courses are catered especially for their academic ability, meaning they’ll have the opportunity to shine and give them the freedom that isn’t often afforded while at school.

"We sp en t th e w h

ol e su m m er ex p lo

ri n g ou td oo rs !"

There are several summer schools taking place across the region, you might be surprised just what activities are on offer. Whether your children are academic, arty or sporty, there is something for everyone and the benefits are numerous. Aside from giving them a safe area to learn while having fun, research has found that children who attend summer schools are more likely to get into competitive universities, and the benefit is greater for children from lower income families. Don’t forget though that summer schools are actually fun!

"Th is sum mer I play ed spo rt ever yda y!" ukfamilymatters |

@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk | 7

d

G ATTH GEETT FFA R R O HEER O F F R’’SS T T ’ ’ N N DDAA DDOO YY

-17

th JUN

Father’s Day is celebrated every year in the UK on the third Sunday in June. Reports suggest that it dates back to 1910 in Washington USA, where one lady decided it was about time that the father’s role was celebrated, as well as the mother. As a recognised day, it wasn’t taken seriously for several years, before becoming celebrated

E

as it is today. Unlike Mother’s Day, which is celebrated on different days across the world, the UK, USA and Canada all celebrate Father’s Day on the same Sunday in June.

Want to get your dad, step dad, grandad or fatherly figure something to show your appreciation? Here are a few ideas to get your started:

For adventurous dads

For techy dads

Skydiving Paintballing Driving Experiences

Digital camera Ipod/mp3 player Gadget accessories

For quieter dads

For fashionable dads

Visit to a National Trust estate Sightseeing tour Golf day

Watch T shirt Cufflinks

For sporty dads Stadium tour Sports match game tickets Sporting TV/magazine subscription

For dads with simple taste CD DVD Favourite sweets

If you want something a bit more personal, there are a whole range of personalised gifts on the market and websites that offer engraving and photo services, or you could get your craft on and create something yourself that he will appreciate all the more!

8 |

ukfamilymatters |

@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk

E R V R E UININ F Y A H G

m u s m r e u r? o y

IS

If you’ve ever experienced hayfever, you’ll know that the months of March through to September are a blur of sneezing, itchy eyes and runny noses. While the best way to tackle symptoms will always be with anti-histamines, there are a few other things we can do to make things easier for those family members who are prone to pollen allergies.

People with additional conditions, such as asthma or skin irritations, may find that these start to play up with the warmer weather too.

If at any point you’re concerned about a family member’s hayfever, do seek the advice of a GP, as they can prescribe stronger anti-histamines or steroids to help combat the more extreme allergies.

For those of us who pop a pill or spray a nasal spray and hope for the best, here are a few tips that can help you enjoy being outside in the sun.

The first bit of advice would be to avoid going outside.

But we all know that isn’t that exciting.

So, here are some things you can do without shutting yourself away until Autumn.

Firstly, keep windows and doors shut as much as possible, and be sure that if you have pets which go between indoors and out, anyone with allergies spend minimal time with them, as pollen can be collected on their coats.

Make sure you’re vacuuming regularly to pick up any stray pollen, dusting with a damp cloth will also help.

If you’re leaving the house, you can put Vaseline around your nostrils to trap pollen and prevent it from causing too much of a reaction, when you get home, you can shower and change your clothes to wash as much pollen from you as possible. Wearing wraparound sunglasses will also help stop pollen getting to your eyes.

Another tip would be to dry clothes inside rather than out, to limit the amount of pollen they can pick up.

It is also recommended you get a pollen filter fitted in your car, most newer cars come with this already in place, but older vehicles might not – check your manufacturer’s book and if you feel you need one, speak to a local mechanic.

Have you got any other tips for dealing with hayfever?

Drop us a message on Facebook or Twitter.

According to NHS Direct, these are the basic symptoms of hayfever: Sneezing and coughing Runny or blocked nose Itchy, red or watery eyes Itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears

Loss of smell Headache Earache Tiredness

Try learning sign language this May for

Deaf Awareness

With Oscar-winning short film, The Silent Child, starring six-year-old Maisie Sly, from Swindon, shining the spotlight on deafness and the ways in which sign language can be life changing in helping young people communicate, we thought now would be as good a time as any to teach a few signs.

You might be familiar with a few different types of sign language. Makaton is a language developed to combine speech and signs and is used effectively across the country by a multitude of individuals who struggle with spoken communication, it can be helpful for not only the hard of hearing, but also children with autism, Down’s Syndrome and other conditions which make communication difficult. BSL, or British Sign Language, makes use of space and movement involving the hands, body, face and head to convey more complex sentences without the use of verbal support.

Both BSL and Makaton feature similar signs and gestures – here are a few of our favourite signs to get you started!

Do you know any sign language? Show us! Send us your videos and photos via our website! And make sure to check the website to see our video of us learning sign language.

CUT-OUT & KEEP

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

Win Prizes

Win a family ticket to Yeovilton Air Day Win tickets to see the first ever Teletubbies Stage show The iconic, world-famous Teletubbies, are to star in their first-ever live theatre show, “Big Hugs,” created especially for the youngest audience. Join Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po in a captivating stage show full of love, laughter, music and “Big Hugs,” as they explore the magical world of Teletubbyland. Look out for the Tubby Phone, Noo-Noo and Sun Baby in a fun, bright and safe world, which captures young children’s imaginations and encourages them to explore the world around them. Tickets are a family ticket (4 tickets) for Wednesday 12th September, at the 10am showing.

Win a family ticket to The Helicopter Museum The Helicopter Museum has over 80 full size aircraft on display ranging from an impressive Russian gunship to a massive Super Frelon 36 seat helicopter. The Museum hosts the only helicopter collection in the country and the largest of its kind in the World! Highlights on the Museum’s event calendar include it’s monthly ‘Open Cockpit Days’ where visitors can take the pilots seat in one of the museums many aircraft and be shown the controls by an experienced guide. During the year the Museum hosts a WWII Extravaganza, Numerous Transport Rallies, Drone racing and a Flight Simulator convention.

For younger visitors Family Fun Days take place throughout the year including bubble shows, owl displays, magic shows, the haunted helicopter at Halloween and a chance to see Santa arrive in his helicopter at Christmas.

The Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Yeovilton International Air Day will take place on Saturday 7 July. The show will include over five hours of dazzling flying displays featuring fast jets, historic warbirds, helicopters, formation aerobatic display teams and role demonstrations enhanced by spectacular pyrotechnics and flares. There will also be a vast range of showground attractions from the latest defence technology exhibitions, engineering fairs and service displays to trade stalls, arena displays and much more! For the thrill seekers, there will be simulators, fairground rides and helicopter pleasure flights to enjoy. Whether you are a first timer or a dedicated aviation enthusiast, the Air Day has something for everyone.

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO SPLASHDOWN With summer just around the corner, there’s never a better time to visit a waterpark; with flumes galore, twisting tyre rides and a whole lot fun for the family. We have family tickets for 4 people to be won at the south west’s favourite waterparks. Best of all you can choose whether you wish to go to Splashdown in Poole, Dorset or Splashdown Quaywest, right on the beach in beautiful South Devon.

Tickets may be used anytime up to 2nd September 2018, admission for up to four people.

Worth up to £60.00 per family.

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: 26th June 2018

amazing prize for the family

W I N !

... A FAMILY TICKET TO

CAMP BESTIVAL!

Do something different with your family this summer and climb aboard our ship of fun as Camp Bestival Sets Sail. Enjoy ocean-sized entertainment at Lulworth Castle, Dorset with music from Simple Minds, Rick Astley, Clean Bandit, Orbital, Basement Jaxx (DJ), Sara Cox presents Just Can’t Get Enough 80s!, Shed Seven, Tokio Myers, Declan McKenna, dodie, The Skatalites, Jaguar Skills and many more.

Don’t miss out on family fun from Mr Tumble, Dick and Dom, Mister Maker & the Shapes, Dinosaur World Live, Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, ZSL London Zoo: Gruesome Nature Live! and many more.

Enjoy delicious food and drink from River Cottage, the Feast Collective, DJ BBQ and his BBQ Zoo, Zoe’s Ghana Kitchen, Rob & Josie’s Gin Festival and lots more and treat yourself to creature comforts with boutique camping from yurts and tipis to gypsy caravans and backstage hospitality, all at a castle campsite by the sea.

For more information on Camp Bestival, visit campbestival.net

To be in with a chance to win, just go to

WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK/COMPETITIONS and fill in the form. Easy!

T&Cs The prize includes weekend tickets to Camp Bestival for two adults and up to four children (under 18). Prize is non-transferrable. Winners names will be added to a guest list for wristband collection onsite. ID will be required for collection. For full Camp Bestival T&Cs http://www.campbestival.net/tickets/terms-and-conditions

what’s on 24th May Frome - Playing Out A chance for children and parents/carers to play out and have some fun. Free.

Victoria Park Frome (in front of cafeĚ ) Somerset BA11 www.sasp.co.uk, www.zingsomerset.co.uk 24th May T Rex: The Killer Question Get hands on with fossil replicas and square up to a life-size animatronic T Rex. Decide for yourself if the king of the dinosaurs deserves the title of predator, or sneaky scavenger.

Longleat Estate, Wilts.

26th - 27th May Cheddar Gorge Explorer Trail An afternoon of family fun. Explore Cheddar Gorge and have a go at the Explorer Quiz Trail. There will also be some craft activities to try. Free. 12pm.

National Trust Shop, Cheddar Gorge, BS27 3QE www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk 26th - 28th May Tractor Ted Big Machine Weekend at Bowood Get up close to a range of real life farm machinery; exactly what Tractor Ted is all about! Learn more about farming with arena displays and activities throughout the day. www.bowood.org/events

26th May - 3rd June Wildlife Week at Cheddar For one week only you'll get to meet some of our favourites during some very special animal encounters!

Daily 10am - 4pm. www.cheddargorge.co.uk 28th May - 1st June Whispering Woods Outdoor Acrobatic Theatre Family outdoor theatre with a twist, Whispering Woods bring ancient tales to life using circus acrobatics amongst the trees.

Lacock Abbey, 10.30am and 4.30pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock-abbey-fox-talbot-museumand-village.

29th May - 1st June Wildlife Days There will be wildlife crafts and a variety of hands-on activities with the Somerset Wildlife Trust, Wildlfowl & Wetlands Trust, Somerset Moth Group, Bumblebee Conservation Trust and others. Barrington Court, near Ilminster, Somerset 30th May - 2nd June The Royal Bath and West Show Over four days there are action packed events for all the family, and a haven for all enthusiasts of rural life. www.bathandwest.com/royalbath-and-west-show 31st May Family Fun - Cottage Garden Crafts and activities for all the family.

11am - 1pm and 2 -3.30pm. Normal admission applies Somerset Rural Life Museum. www.swheritage.org.uk

For further information about each event

2nd June Paw Patrol at West Somerset Railway The heroic pups will be making personal appearances at intervals between 10am and 4pm. Entertainment on the day will include a 20 mile steam train, face painting, crafts and much more. www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk 8th - 9th June One Small Step at The Egg Theatre This fab show returns for a fast, furious and full throttled trip to the moon. An inventive, funny and surprisingly moving, actionpacked show that crams 50 years of history into 60 minutes! www.theatreroyal.org.uk/your-visit/the-egg 9-10th June The Brick Express at Avon Valley Railway Jump onboard and enjoy our building workshops with Britain’s favourite construction toy whilst you travel the line. www.avonvalleyrailway.org/ events/the-brick-express 10th June LEAF Open Farm Sunday Fantastic, educational & innovative family oriented event featuring local countryside producers & crafters.

Please follow car parking signs & not SAT NAV. Please leave dogs at home & wear suitable footwear. www.openfarmsunday.org 16th June Picnic in the Park An evening of musicals presented by Woodside Music. 7.30pm.

Bush Farm Bison Centre, West Knoyle, Wilts.

17th June Bowoods Treasure Island Ahoy there! and be a pirate for the day. All o' you are welcome, shiver me timbers, we have something for everyone!

Bowood House and Gardens. www.bowood.org/events 23rd June Sherlock Gnomes (U) The beloved garden gnomes from GNOMEO AND JULIET are back for a whole new adventure. This action-packed sequel features the voices of returning cast plus Johnny Depp as Sherlock Gnomes, Chiwetel Ejiofor as Watson and Mary J. Blige as Irene. Midsomer Norton Town Hall, 2.30pm.

23rd June Elmfete All welcome. Traditional stalls, games, craft area, hot food and refreshments, performances from the school choir, country dancing and a gymnastics display. 12 noon to 3pm Elmhurst School, Elmhurst Lane, Street.

22nd-24th June, The English Country Garden Festival Celebrate the Great British Garden, the stunning 14-acre grounds of the Palace features guided tours, live music, expert speakers, ‘have a go’ skills and crafts and over 40 stalls, 10am5pm. The Bishops Palace, Wells.

30th June Country Fayre and Family Fun Day Stalls, Food, BBQ, Games, Animals and much much more.

11am - 4pm Fairfield Farm College, Dilton Marsh, Westbury, Wiltshire.

30th June - 1st July Teddy Bear Picnic at Avon Valley Railway Enjoy a family teddy bear trail around the station, take part in craft activities and much more. FREE train travel for children who bring their Teddy Bear! www.avonvalleyrailway.org/events/teddy-bears-picnic 7th July - Yeovilton Air Day The Royal Navy’s premier public event at the spiritual home of the Fleet Air Arm. Alongside the magnificent five hour flying display there will also be a huge array of ground attractions and arena displays. www.royalnavy. mod.uk/yeovilton-airday 15th July Centurion Family Fun Day Music, Bar, BBQ, Crazy Golf, Inflatables and more. Free entry.

11am - 4pm. Wristband for all activities £5.

Best Western Centurion Hotel, Midsomer Norton.

please visit www.familymatters-uk.co.uk

COWTASTIC FARM PARK FOR FUN ON THE FARM!

Plus award-winning Farm Shop, Café & Shopping Village.

For opening hours, please visit our website.

OPEN FARM SUNDAY Sunday 10th June

Learn about all things farming, food & countryside!

Includes free entry to the Farm Park on the day.

www.farringtons.co.uk

, Park Farm & l i a al Tr rn Anim a b y Pla r o o Ind ily n Da Ope

Making time for me For busy parents who are juggling work and child care, it can be difficult to set aside time for themselves but when was the last time you really put yourself first and listened to what you wanted? We’re always being told about how important self-care is and though it might seem impossible to carve out a bit of time in your schedule for yourself, taking time out can make all the difference to your family.

Parenting is tough.

It can be fun, it is definitely rewarding, but it is tough. Making sure the children are fed, that they’re clothed and washed, that they’ve had enough sleep, that they’ve done their homework, all that on top of maintaining your living space and getting yourself ready and out the door for work keeps you busy. Far too busy for a night out with friends or an evening to yourself in the bath with a glass of wine or two on the regular.

Feeling busy without the chance to have a break can leave you feeling overwhelmed and isolated, so just like how your children need to take a break when they’re tired, so do you. Rather than thinking of alone time, either with your partner or solo, as a luxury, start trying to make it a priority. Not giving yourself time to de-stress and relax can have serious affects, not just on your mental health, but also your physical health, which in turn, can impact your family relationships. Surely, the first step to looking after your family, is to make sure you’re fit for purpose by looking after yourself?

It is important that you don’t look at creating ‘me time’ as another task to add to the never ending to do list, but more collecting a series of brief pauses in the day that involve little planning and can leave you feeling refreshed. Whether it's taking half an hour to do some yoga while the baby naps, or walking for the school run giving yourself some time to breathe fresh air on your walk back home without the children. The littlest things can make the biggest differences and leave you happier, healthier and better able to enjoy your time with the family no matter how chaotic it is.

The next time you find yourself reaching breaking point as the children scream around you and every piece of crockery you own teeters dangerously in the sink, think about what you can do to yourself happy, healthy and relaxed. If you have a partner sharing the child care duties, allow them to have some one-on-one time with the children and take yourself off to learn a new skill, wonder around the shops or just have a nap. If you’re a single parent, find a local club or group that the children can participate in while you spend some time clearing your head. Feeling like you’ve lost your old identity and taken on this new persona of being a parent is one thing that many people start to miss as their interests take a back seat to their children’s wants and needs. You can maintain your hobbies without neglecting the children or stressing yourself out and learning a new skill or keeping up with your old life can be a real confidence booster.

There are plenty of reasons for taking time out and looking after number one, but it’s important not to stress out about it but to rather set aside time and stick to it. It’s for the good of the family and most importantly, for you and your relationships.

ukfamilymatters |

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

TWO CHILDREN GO FREE WITH ADVANCE ADULT TICKETS

MILLFIELD

HOLIDAY COURSES

SUMMER COURSES

Athletics, Badminton, Cricket, Football*, Golf, Hockey, Mini-Multis, Multi-Activity, Netball*, Rugby, Squash, Tennis *Also running during Summer Half-Term WWW.BATHANDWEST.COM

BOOK ONLINE NOW

millfieldenterprises.com/courses

30 MAY - 2 JUNE 2018

9 & 10 JUNE

TEDDY BEARS PICNIC

Jump onboard the Brick Express and try your hand at building with the world’s favourite construction toy, as you travel the line.

What will you build? Admire the latest creations from Bristol’s master-builder Tom Poulsom!

Tickets on sale at www.avonvalleyrailway.org * Lego, the LEGO logo, the brick and knob configuration and the Minifigure authorise or endorse this event.

TEDDY BEA RS’ PICNIC

FREE train trav el for children who bring their Teddy Bear

are trademarks of the LEGO Group, which does not sponsor,

Plus try your hand at controlling our miniature Brick Express train!

30 JUNE & 1 JULY

2025

June

BRICK EXPRESS

Enjoy a family teddy bear trail around the station,

a traditional Punch & Judy show, balloon modelling, face painting and crafts on the train.

Plus FREE train travel for children who bring their Teddy Bear on this special weekend!

info@avonvalleyrailway.org

l

0117 932 5538

www.avonvalleyrailway.org

Bitton Railway Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol

Tel: 0117 932 5538 www.avonvalleyrailway.org Teddy Bear Picnic A5 Flyer Cream.indd 1

Bitton Railway Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6HD

BS30 6HD 01/05/2018 11:41

LATEST SCHOOL NEWS

EVENTS

DIARY DATES

YOUR SUCCESSES

News and Reviews CAMP FOR CASTLE PRIMARY Castle Primary Year 4 children went off to their PGL camp at Liddington. They had an amazing time and all the teachers and adults who attended said what a credit to the school the children were. They were all challenged in different ways – some with a giant swing, others with a tree tops rope trail and others still with just being away from home but all the children rose to the challenge and did brilliantly!

The school was complimented on how well the children behaved so a huge well done to them and a great big thank you went to all the adults who gave up their time and energy to be with them.

Children back at Base Camp did a wide variety of enrichment activities and the staff who worked with them were thrilled with their efforts.

SPRING CHICKS HAVE ARRIVED AT WHITCHURCH! Reception have been learning about life cycles and growing through real experiences, whilst they awaited the tadpoles to grow into frogs, the incubated eggs hatched into chicks! The children loved the experience of having these spring animals in the classroom!

ukfamilymatters |

FUTURE HEROES LEARN FROM THE PROFESSIONALS

Flashing lights, sirens and screaming echoed around the grounds of St Brendan’s Sixth Form College yesterday. As the city’s emergency services gathered at the College. The day was far from a catastrophe however, as Public Services students enjoyed a day of learning from the professionals during a Road Traffic Collision training day.

A lucky group of 30 teens, all studying Public Services at the Brislington College, spent the day working with some of Bristol’s everyday heroes.

The day was a one-of-a-kind event, which enabled Avon Fire & Rescue, NHS South Western Ambulance Service and Avon & Somerset Constabulary to collaborate in a unique training session, which provided insight into the challenging and rewarding careers open to the young adults taking part.

The students, many of whom are eager to embark upon a career with the emergency services after leaving College, enjoyed a morning of practical demonstrations and workshops delivered directly from those on the front line; covering a range of topics including CPR and first aid.

The day culminated in one very large bang which saw all services pull together in a mock road traffic collision scenario calling for car roofs to be taken off and the ‘injured’ to be tended to. As emergency services vehicles flew up the College drive and Fire Officers began smashing windows and cutting cars, students and staff gathered to watch the events unfold. Meanwhile, Public Services students donned hard hats and jackets to join the action and put their morning training into practice; shadowing the professionals and providing medical help to the ‘wounded’.

Dave Hodder, Public Services teacher at St Brendan’s and co-organiser of the event said, “As a College we are thrilled that we are able to provide our students with this unique experience and it has been incredibly rewarding to see our young adults in action. A huge thank you to all the emergency services officers who helped to make the event such a success. Our students feel incredibly privileged to have had an opportunity to work with such inspirational and hard-working professionals. After working closely with these students in class and watching them today, I am confident that the Bristol population is in good hands with our future generation of life-savers!”

@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk | 19

RECEPTION CHILDREN CELEBRATE TERM TOPIC WITH UGLY BUG BALL Children in Reception class at Fairfield School, Backwell, have planned and enjoyed a special Ugly Bug Ball as part of their studies into minibeasts this term.

The class of four and five-year-olds, who have been learning all about the school topic of ‘From the Tiny Ant…’, looked at different types of mini-beasts, found them, painted them, modelled them and learned all about their habitats.

To mark the end of the term the class celebrated by organising an Ugly Bug Ball, which involved creating invitations, choosing music, creating costumes and making the party food.

Fairfield School headmistress, Lesley Barton, said: “In the true spirit of Fairfield’s Creative Curriculum approach, the simple idea of throwing a class party provided so many learning opportunities across several areas of learning, not to mention hours of fun as the children planned the party!

“The children thought about how to let people know about their party, deciding to write invitations and working out what kind of information was needed. Great care went into creating the invitations and carefully using finger spacing and concentrating on the formation of letters, which is a class target for this term.

“The class also learned all the words to the song ‘The Ugly Bug Ball’ and learned how to write a list so they could write down everything

they needed for the party.

“A highlight was certainly creating the costumes. The children talked about the features of a bug and decided to make ugly bug headbands and wings using different resources and then they made jam tarts using different flavoured jam and lemon curd.

“The children were all very proud of their efforts and had fun dancing to different party songs with their friends. The day was a perfect example of the power of a stimulating and vibrant curriculum.”

Elsewhere in the school, Year 1 performed an excellent assembly on rainforests and Years 1 and 2 enjoyed a chilly but fun packed day at Bristol Zoo, which included an excellent rainforest workshop learning about how animals adapt and how the rainforest is being destroyed and is endangered. The highlight of their visit was seeing the new baby gorilla and getting up close to the lions.

Fairfield School is an independent co-educational school for children aged 2 to 11. Class sizes are limited to a maximum of 22 at Fairfield School, with many much smaller and there is a very wide range of clubs and activities, sport, music and drama to cater for the interests of all pupils.

Fairfield is historically a PNEU School, which means it is affiliated to the Parents’ National Education Union. There are PNEU schools throughout the UK and the world.

Authentic Princess Party Character Hire from £40 Contact us today to book your magical memories: www.littlegemprincessevents.co.uk littlegemprincessevents@hotmail.com CALL US ON 07498295839

Little Gem Princess Events littlegemprincess

20 |

ukfamilymatters |

@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk

WHITCHURCH WIN AGAIN! FORMULA 1 CHALLENGE

WHITCHURCH NETBALL REPORTS

A huge well done to Year 5 who won the Formula 1 Primary Regional Challenge for the 6th consecutive year! The children worked well as a team to construct small model cars alongside a presentation explaining their work. These were then raced against cars from schools all over the region. Whitchurch Primary School won best pit display and portfolio, best engineered car and best verbal presentation! Overall, they came first and second, therefore two teams from the school will be taking part in the final in Warwickshire.

Well done Year 5, and well done Mrs Rich for all the hard work during this project!

Match reporters: Sienna and Ella "On Wednesday 7th March, Whitchurch Primary School, captained

by Leona, went head to head against Pensford Primary School in a netball match. The first part took place here and within seconds, Belle scored 3 goals in a row. Everybody was shocked. After that, in the second quarter, Leona and Chloe scored 1 goal each leading Whitchurch ahead 5-0. Finally, Pensford scored their 2 goals leaving Whitchurch nervous they were going to catch up. It was an outstanding match and we think Pensford played really well."

Match reporters: Tom and Toby "We had a marvellous match at Pensford Primary School.

Whitchurch started off on a bad note because Pensford scored two goals in the first quarter. However, in the second quarter we caught up with a splendid goal. Whitchurch fought back but they found the tiny court intimidating, also it was on a slope.

Whitchurch tried their best but they lost 3-2. They thoroughly enjoyed the game."

ST KEYNA FOOTBALL WIN St Keyna football team played against Oldfield Park Junior School in the quarter-finals of the Bath and Keynsham Cup and won 1-0 thanks to a goal from Joss Lynden. Harry Fuller was player of the match with an excellent defensive display.

The school now go on to play WASPs in the semi-finals.

SPONSORED RIDE FOR EDWARD

CASTLE PRIMARY LEARN ABOUT EGYPTIANS Arundel class had a fantastic time at Bristol City museum on Thursday, 12th April it will really kickstart their inquiry on what life was like in Ancient Egypt. They had a super day seeing the Eqyptian mummies and completed a workshop where they handled replica artefacts and had to work out what they were and what they were used for. Miss Dean had some lovely comments from members of the public commenting on how well behaved they all were, which is fantastic to hear! Well done Arundel class, you’ve made us proud!

ukfamilymatters |

Edward Lodder recently completed a sponsored cycle ride from Bristol to Bath, which raised ÂŁ135 for Sport Relief. It took Edward (and his dad) around three hours to cycle the 14-mile route along the Railway path - a long way for little legs - on a bike with just one gear, but he did it without complaining, and even wants to do a bigger challenge next year! Wow - what a fantastic effort Edward! Well done from everyone at Family Matters.

@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk | 21

WOW

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

WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT Name: Chloe Wall Age: 5 Achievement: Achieved the British Gymnastics proficiency award for level 8.

Name: Megan Cottle Age: 7 Achievement: Temporary 9th Kyu - orange belt Karate.

Name: Nicky Kershaw-Moore Age: 8 Achievement: Received his Rainbow Reader award for prolific reading.

Name: Polly Green Age: 9 Achievement: Polly passed her Grade 1 Ballet exam with Distinction! Well done!

Name: Alistair Combe Age: 7 Achievement: Cycling 15 miles raising ÂŁ280 for Sport Relief.

Name: Kayleigh Age: 6 Achievement: Cast for MusiKids Schools Out.

Name: Freya Hodges Age: 5 Achievement: Asa 15m swimming award & level 7 gymnastic proficiency award.

Name: Ruby Sage Age: 9 Achievement: She obtained a Blue Peter badge after writing a story about wolves.

Name: Suzanna Roberts Achievement: Awarded a Merit for her marvellous limericks.

Jasmine Robinson-Knott age 5, Chloe Wall age 5 and Ava Weeks age 5 took part in their first professional dance show with Susan Hill Dance School 35th Anniversary A Tribute to Pearl. Well done girls, amazing performances.

Eden, Rose and Ivy. We are very proud of them as they performed ballet in front of hundreds of people including the Major of Wells in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at the Wookey Hole Theatre.

Just click the button! submit your WOW photos here

We want to know what you've achieved!

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

www.familymatters-uk.co.uk 22 |

ukfamilymatters |

@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk

WE SPECIALISE IN TURNING YOUR HOUSE INTO A HOME

CARPET | VINYL | LAMINATE | KARNDEAN

FITTING | DELIVERY SERVICE | COLLECTION AVAILABLE

TH

PET BAR R A C E N

We understand flooring is the centre piece of your home and it’s important to have the right choice, quality and style available.

The Carpet Barn offers a comprehensive and professional fitting service.

Our fitters are carefully vetted and have many years of experience.

Unit 1a, Old Coach House, Bath Rd, Longwell Green, Bristol BS30 6DL

0117 9477721

www.thecarpetbarn.co.uk Check out our refurbishment later this year

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

OPENING TIMES: Monday to Friday 9 - 5.30pm • Saturday 9-5pm • Sunday 10-4pm.