KidAround Magazine - Autumn Issue (North Essex Edition) by KidAround Magazine

NEWS & VIEWS

Let’s Celebrate!

intu Lakeside turns 25 this October and there’s lots of free family fun to enjoy. On Sunday 25th they will be hosting the biggest birthday bash ever, jam packed with giant party games, giveaways, prizes, free party punch, popcorn and live entertainment. Little ones can go and enjoy their giant inflatable Fab Lab too, which will be staying open till 30th October for free half-term fun. It’s the place to be for the school holidays, with arts, crafts and games inspired by Snoopy, everyone’s favourite pooch, ahead of his appearance on the big screen in ‘The Peanuts Movie: Snoopy’s Grand

Adventure’. To join the fun, all you have to do is sign up to their free Kids’ Club, where you’ll get your hands on a wonderful welcome pack full of free goodies. And if all of that wasn’t enough, you could always take your little ones to Hamleys, the finest toyshop in the world, for all the latest games, toys and magical delights. If your youngsters enjoy being active, head to Partyman World of Play for a huge collection of slides and soft play areas that guarantee fun and endless laughter. Plus, with their Drop and Shop Crèche, you can keep the kids entertained while you get your fashion fix in their amazing stores. Why not stay a little later and make a night of it? Alongside all of your foodie favourites, there’s always something new to try at The Eatery on Level 3 or down on The Boardwalk. Plus, with their VUE cinema you can catch the very latest family films to top off a blockbuster evening in style. One thing’s for sure; their birthday wouldn’t be the same without you! To find out more, or to sign up to the Kids’ Club, visit them at intu.co.uk/lakeside

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Contents This Autumn 03 News & Views 10 Book Reviews 14 Schools Feature

Education Matters 22 Learning & Education

Welcome to

What’s On

Autumn

24 Diary Dates 36 Theatre Listings

As we say goodbye to our Summer, (what we had of one anyway!), and welcome in the Autumn season with nights slightly darker and the air cooler. It’s time to pull down that thicker duvet and dust off the slippers. With our little ones back at school for a new year, we need to get ourselves back into the routine of packed lunches and homework. If, like me, you find homework a little bit of a struggle, we have a few tips to help you along on p23. We also have spooktacular fun in a special feature for Halloween which can be found on p29 with some great firework displays and bonfire recipes which is perfect for all the family and will warm you up nicely on p28. If you are going out to see the fireworks or having family round please be very careful and enjoy the wonderful evening. Don’t forget, KidAround has a whole new look website which is mobile friendly, so you can find out what’s happening when on the move. I hope you have a wonderful Autumn and I will see you all soon with the Winter issue published on 30th November, which will be packed full of Wintery fun!

Seasonal Special 29 Spooky Special

Family Life

39 Let’s Party 40 Get Active

Early Years

44 Beauty, Bump & Baby 46 Childcare

All this plus:

Competitions p11

(we are a friendly bunch) Publisher: Anna Hurley anna.hurley@kidaround.biz Sales Manager: Kate Ellison kate.ellison@kidaround.biz Listings Editor: Suzanne Gardner suzanne.gardner@kidaround.biz

Firework Displays p28

Social Media: Tina Read tina.read@kidaround.biz Tel: 01371 238071

Contributors: Anna xx

Judith Smith Roxanne Dinoulis

KidAround is published quarterly by Trew Publishing Ltd. Address: 66 Baynard Avenue, Little Dunmow, Essex, CM6 3FD Tel: 01371 238071 | email: info@kidaround.biz Circulation: over 120,000 - two Essex editions. Editorial is supplied by the advertiser and is not the responsibility of Trew Publishing Ltd. 4 • Autumn 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz Winter 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

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NEWS & VIEWS

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NEWS & VIEWS

Our local news for Autumn. Plus national events and awareness days

BBC Children in Need -Friday 13th November

This year, a new initiative is being launched. BBC Children in Need and Lloyds Bank have joined forces to create Champions of Change, an education initiative tailored for early years, primary and secondary schools, allowing young people to take the lead in fundraising - it’s strictly by children, for children! Free reward kits will be available, packed with goodies including a huge Champions of Change flag. There will be a range of fun curriculum-based lesson activities and ideas, as well as fundraising tools tailored to all age groups. So get started today and help everyone in your school become a Champion! www.bbcchildreninneed.co.uk

Family Fun And Dog Day At Layer Marney Tower Sunday 27 September

EACH (East Anglia’s Children Hospice) are holding a great event to help raise vital funds. Each support families and care for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk, The event is to be a fun-filled afternoon of activities including: Dog show, with agility and dog displays, fete activities with petting zoo, dancing, donkey rides, bouncy castle, face painting, carousel rides, BBQ, refreshments, raffle, tombola, stalls and lots lots more. 12pm - 5pm. Adults £6, Children under 16 free entry. Layer Marney Tower, Colchester , CO5 9US Email: essex@each.org.uk Name: Abigail Roberts. Phone: 01206 848450. For more information about this event and EACH visit: www.each.org.uk 6 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

NEWS & VIEWS

Take a family break in 2015 on a Stay Play Explore package £129

Stay Play Explore offers great family fun at very affordable prices. Within their range of packages, they have two exciting family getaways, both of which include tickets to three from a choice of five brilliant attractions, as well as bed and breakfast for the whole family! These packages are both just £129 for a family of 4 with the option to add an extra child at a discounted price. The ever popular Family Fun short break is back this year with new hotels to choose from, while the Family Adventure package has been revamped to include new outdoor adventures. Package Options (choose 3 of the 5 attractions): Family Adventure Leicestershire • Tobogganing & sno-tubing at Swadlincote Ski Centre • Ranger-led activities at Conkers • Leicestershire Outdoor Pursuit Centre • Crazy golf & pedalos at Bosworth Water Park • Roliston Forestry Centre Family Fun Leicestershire - tickets to enter the following attractions: • National Space Centre • Conkers Natural Forest • Twycross Zoo • Twin Lakes Theme Park • Stonehurst Family Farm *only from 1st April • Snibston Discover Museum *only until 31st March Booking couldn’t be easier, just choose which hotel you’d like to stay at and select your short break package dates now! For more information, to see availability and to book, please visit www.stayplayexplore.co.uk www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 7

NEWS & VIEWS

Helping Hands – Junior First Aid First Aid is about helping people who have hurt themselves, or are feeling unwell. Knowing what to do to help could make the difference between someone getting better, or still being poorly. Here are just a few situations you may come across at school, out playing, or at home; with very basic information about how you could help. How would I help someone having an asthma attack? 1. Talk to them calmly and ask them to breathe slowly. 2. Help them use their blue inhaler straight away. 3. Sit them down. 4. If they are getting worse, or if this is their first attack and they don’t have an inhaler, then call 999 for an ambulance. How would I help someone with a nose bleed? 1. Sit them down and lean them forward (not backwards), let the nose bleed into a tissue. 2. Get them to pinch the soft part of their nose 3. If the nose bleed does not stop after a few minutes, get adult help. How do I help someone who is choking on their food? 1. Tell them to cough it out. It should come out on its own by coughing. 2. If they are unable to speak or cough they need immediate help! 3. Using the heel of your hand, give five sharp back slaps between the shoulder blades. 4. While doing this shout for adult help.

What do I do if someone is bleeding badly? 1. Press down on the injury, to stop the bleeding. 2. Apply a clean bandage firmly to the injury. 3. Raise the injury where possible (putting a hand, or arm in the air; or laying the person down flat and raising their feet/legs, if a foot or leg injury) 4. Seek adult help immediately/call an ambulance. How would I help someone with a minor burn? 1. Run the burn area under a cold tap for a full 10 minutes, to cool it down. 2. Cover the burn with a burn dressing (from a first aid kit) or wrap loosely with kitchen cling film, to protect it from infection. 3. Do not burst any blisters that may form. 4. Seek help from an adult In order to learn all the essential lifesaving skills in more detail, it is important to take a first aid course with a qualified instructor. To find out about Junior First Aid courses in your area, contact training@keepusafesolutions.com

Invitation

To all Parents/Carers, Courses and workshops from Extra – Support for Families. • Fully funded • Excellent refreshments • Childcare provided ‘All the staff have gone out of their way to make sure I have felt welcomed and supported. I have learnt invaluable skills that have enabled me to cope with the challenges that having a young family with additional needs brings. I have developed close friendships, which has given me a social life. I now have confidence to deal with the challenges I face on a day to day basis and can ensure my family have the safe, loving environment they deserve. Thank you Extra!’ (parent comment). Visit: www.extrasupportforfamilies.co.uk Call: 01255 475001 Follow them on Twitter; @Extra2009

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NEWS & VIEWS

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BOOKS TO READ R EV IEWED BY LOCAL CHILDR EN

Red Box: Nixie The Bad, Bad Fairy by Cas Lester. Oxford Press £5.99 This book is about a fairy called Nixie. Nixie’s magic wand always lets her down when she is trying to be helpful and everything goes wrong. I really liked this book because when Nixie ends up in trouble her friends help her and they don’t think she is bad. I think everybody should read this book because it’s really funny, especially when Nixie says Bumblebees Bottoms! And the lemon cakes are yummy! Reviewed by Amy Burns aged 7

Pink Box: Hedgehugs: Horace and Hattiepillar by Lucy Tapper & Steve Wilson. Maverick Publishing £5.99 What a lovely book! Flynn and I settled down to read this and he loved pointing at the pictures, in particular at the small details like spiders and ladybirds in the illustrations. Horace and Hattie are friendly hedgehogs who meet and look after a caterpillar which inspires them to see if they can change too. Smiles all round by the end and just the right amount of words on a page to read to a 1yr old any time of the day. Reviewed by Flynn Newman aged 1 and his mum, Emma

Purple Box: Lottie & Dottie Sow Sunflowers by Claire Burgess. Part of the Early Readers collection £4.99 Sofia really enjoyed this story about Lottie & Dottie and the sunflowers, her favourite part was finding out about all the things you need to grow a really tall sunflower. Sofia really liked the part when the sunflower got as tall as mummy, she thought this was really funny. Sofia is now very excited to grow her own sunflower next year. Sofia says this is a brilliant book and she gives it 10/10. Reviewed by Sofia Trodd aged 4 ½

Yellow Box: The True Story Of Bella & Simba by Sara Starbuck. Orion Children’s Books £5.99 This book is about two lions called Bella and Simba, who were born in captivity and were treated nastily. They were rescued by Born Free and were taken to their natural home in Africa. I liked the book because there are not many about real lions. I particularly enjoyed reading the fact boxes with interesting information about lions. I would recommend “The True Story of Bella and Simba” to all animal lovers. Reviewed by Thomas Blanshard aged 7

Blue Box: Monkey and the Little One by Claire Alexander. Egmont Publishing £6.99 We really love this book. We like the pictures because Monkey is funny looking and the mouse is cute. In the story, Monkey shouts at the mouse and that makes the mouse sad so he walks away. That makes monkey sad so he goes to find the mouse and gives him a sandwich and a flower. They are both happy then and they are best friends. At the end of the story, we felt happy too. Reviewed by Finlay & Nathan Harwood aged 4

Orange Box: Dot & Anton by Erich Kästner. Pushkin Children Books £7.99 Dot and Anton is a great book once you get into the rhythm. I liked it so much that I finished the whole book in one day. I found it very humorous that Dot enjoyed begging people to buy matches. I also found it funny when Piefke and Dot acted out Little Red Riding Hood. I liked Anton and his personality. I think that Anthea Bells, Walter Trier and Erich Kastner all did an excellent job with this perfect book. Reviewed by Hana Hagras aged 10

WIN WIN WIN - You can win a copy of one of these books, to enter visit: www.kidaround.biz. If your child would like to review one of our books in future publications, please email suzanne.gardner@kidaround.biz

Competitions

KidAround have some amazing competitions for you this Autumn..... All you have to do is enter!

More competitons can be found online at www.kidaround.biz You can also follow us facebook.com/ kidaroundmagazine

www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 11

NEWS & VIEWS

Healthy child lifestyle and weight management programmes rolled out across Essex

An innovative programme designed to support parents in Essex who are concerned that their children may be overweight is being rolled out across the whole of the county. The free, six-week programme aims to work with families in a fun and informative way to help them maintain an active lifestyle and a healthy weight. The programme will be delivered by healthcare provider Anglian Community Enterprise (ACE), which has been successfully running the scheme throughout Tendring and Colchester districts for the past eight years. Now health bosses at Essex County Council have commissioned ACE to set up similar programmes throughout Essex. ACE is an award-winning social enterprise which provides more than 40 NHS community healthcare services in Essex and specialises in health and wellbeing services. Project Leader for Child and Young Persons Weight Management at ACE, Kate French, said the programme combines fun, physical activities for children, with information sessions for their parents. Kate said: “In our experience we have found that the best way to get people involved in the programme is to make it fun and engaging for everyone.” “The programme takes place over a six-week period where we meet for an hour-long session, once a week. Typically the children will join one group where they will take part in a number of fun, physical activities.

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“Meanwhile, we get the parents involved in education sessions, where they will learn and discuss a range of subjects from the importance of physical exercise and regular eating patterns to how to interpret food labels and serve healthy portion sizes.” There are programmes aimed at children of different ages – one is tailored for children of primary school age while another is focussed on the needs of young people and teenagers of secondary school age. Kate continued: “Towards the end of the session we bring the children and parents all together again and set them a challenge for that week. These goals are set individually and tailored for each family. “If they have achieved their goal when we meet the next week, they will receive a small reward. Larger rewards will be given to people who attend the majority of sessions and make good progress over the whole programme.” Kate said the programmes are important because an awareness of what makes a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Forming healthy habits and engaging the whole family can also help everyone get to a healthier weight and enjoy life more. She added: “The sessions are free and people have found them really helpful in the past. We want to encourage as many people as possible to get in touch and to get involved.” For more information and to find a programme near you call 0800 022 4224 or email acecic.lifestylesforchildren@nhs.net

NEWS & VIEWS

Anti-Bullying Week - 16th -20th November Anti-Bullying Week in England is co-ordinated by the Anti-Bullying Alliance. The theme is ‘Make a Noise about Bullying’ with the #antibullyingweek. The key aims of the week are:

Keep up to with the latest KidAround news and competition via our facebook and online

• To empower children and young people to speak out about bullying - whether it is happening to them or someone else, face to face or online. • To help parents and carers communicate with their children about bullying - as a way of preventing bullying and to help children who are worried about bullying. • To encourage ‘talking schools’ where children are given a safe space to talk about bullying and are encouraged to report it. • To equip teachers to respond effectively when children tell them they’re being bullied.To raise awareness of the impact of bullying on children’s lives if they don’t tell anyone about it - or are not given support - with a focus on the impact on mental health. Download the Anti-Bullying Alliance campaign pack www.anti-bullyingalliance.co.uk

Humphrey’s Pyjama Week 5th - 9th October

Take part and help support The Children’s Trust for children with brain injury. Humphrey’s Pyjama Week is a fun-filled fundraising activity for young children to take part in. For a voluntary donation of £2 per child, children can wear their pyjamas for the day and participate in a number of fun and educational themed activities, whilst raising funds for The Children’s Trust. For more information visit: www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk

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Thurstable School

Thurstable School serves the communities of Tiptree, Mersea and Tollesbury, as well as the rural areas and villages that surround them. The school is truly comprehensive, welcoming children of all abilities and backgrounds, and ensuring that they reach their full potential as students and as individual young people. Founded in the 1950s, Thurstable converted to Academy Status in 2011 as a good school achieving strong results for its students, and able to manage its own future. In recent years students have joined them from as far afield as Hatfield Peverel, Witham, Rivenhall, and Heybridge, and all are welcome. As well as academic, artistic and sporting achievements they pride themselves on their sense of community and the strength of the relationships they foster. Their motto is “Belong More, Achieve More, Be More”, and they understand how these three aspirations support and enrich each other. Their focus in teaching is on active, cooperative, collaborative learning, and on ensuring that all students know what their next steps are, and supporting them as they make them. Their first priority is the achievement and well-being of each of their individual students rather than the school league table position, 5+A*-C percentage, or Ofsted grade, and they make decisions accordingly. As a result Thurstable is a great place to learn and to grow up for students of all abilities and backgrounds, and they can attract and retain an exceptionally strong team of teachers. Much more information can be found on their website www.thurstable.essex.sch.uk, and a copy of their brochure can be requested by emailing thurstable@thurstable.essex.sch.uk. Questions related to admissions can be directed to the same email address, as can requests to experience the school at work first hand. 14 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

SCHOOLS FEATURE

Felsted Wins Top Science Prize

Felsted Preparatory School are Regional Winners of the National Science and Engineering Competition 2015 and go through to the Big Bang National Finals in London early next year. Thirteen pupils presented their projects at the Regional Big Bang Fair in Newmarket earlier this month. Competing against the best science projects from fifty schools across the Eastern Region, projects were judged and moderated by experts in the field of Physics, Chemistry, Biology and STEM, (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths). Mrs Christina Bury, Director of Learning and Science Teacher at Felsted Preparatory School, comments; “We are absolutely overwhelmed and very excited to be announced National Science and Engineering Winners 2015. One particular project, ‘The use of Non-Newtonian Fluids in Protective Sports Wear’, was nominated to go through to the National Finals of the Big Bang Science and Engineering Competition next year.’” This winning project, masterminded by Year 7 pupils James Perkins, Oliver Craig and Teddie Summers, involved testing a liquid called non-Newtonian fluid (Oobleck) in sport protective gear. The boys displayed ways in which they proved that this liquid absorbs force on the sports field. Three other projects included; ‘Bugs for kids’ - presented by Year 8 pupils Rory Aitken, Joshua Bird, Alex Findlay and Alfie Summers. They tested and researched pupils’ views on eating insects as a replacement protein source. The judges were impressed with their ‘Grubs Up’ product that used crushed up bugs like salt and pepper. Absolute Zero- Zero Sweat the Natural Way’ was a project that required lots of research due to the pupils making their own ‘natural’ deodorant. Year 7 pupils Henry Barker, Elliot Gander and Tom Conlon looked at available products for teenagers and surprisingly, most of them contained harmful chemicals. They visited a cosmetic laboratory to understand the process that goes into developing deodorants before finally presenting their own natural deodorants to the judges.Being a Water Explorer - Making Change Happen’ was all about raising awareness to pupils at Felsted about what could happen in the future if there was no water. This group of Year 7 girls Jasmine Irvine-Scott, Georgia Millar and Frankie Slater, described what it was like leading this project from the HSBC sponsored Water Explorer Program and working alongside different schools around the world. This project also won the Sustainability Award. Recognised by The Times Educational Supplement as one of the top three science schools in the country in 2014, Felsted Science is continuing to reap the reward of consistent ambition, creativity, excellent teaching and an absolute commitment to raising attainment levels for all pupils.

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St Mary’s School For Girls

Happy girls are high achievers at St Mary’s School for Girls! Girls thrive at St Mary’s School, Colchester, where a dynamic, girl-friendly academic curriculum is balanced with exciting sport, drama, music, art and lively activities. Every pupil is given just the right amount of support, encouragement and challenge she needs to really make the most of her school years and leave well prepared for adult life. At St Mary’s Kindergarten, boys and girls aged risingthree to four begin to develop enquiring minds, confident personalities and a love of learning in a beautiful, purpose-designed environment judged by Ofsted to be ‘outstanding’. St Mary’s Lower School is one of the top one hundred independent preparatory schools in the country, according to the Sunday Times, with consistently excellent SATs results, while the Senior School tops the GCSE results table for independent schools in North Essex. Above all though, St Mary’s girls are happy girls, with a love of life and all the opportunities it brings. Autumn open days: St Mary’s Kindergarten (for girls and boys aged 3-4): 26 September; St Mary’s Lower School & Kindergarten (for girls 3-11; boys aged 3-4): 5 November; St Mary’s Senior School (for girls 11-16): 5, 8 and 10 October. Please contact the registrar on 01206 572 544 or visit the website for more information and transport options.

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St Philomena’s Catholic School

This year St. Philomena’s Catholic School chose East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) to raise money for this school year. EACH support families and care for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk. The youngest children of the school in the Nursery class took part in a sponsored bounce. Children in the Reception class held a charity Pyjama Day. They dressed up in their favourite night time attire and spent the day enjoying sleep-related activities. Their favourite activity of the day was jumping like sheep! Children in Years 1 and 2 held a mini fête, manning the stalls with the help of some of their parents. The children helped decide which stalls to include and then designed the signs for each of them. They enjoyed counting up the money and finding out how much they had raised. The teachers of Years 3 and 4 had an unusually quiet afternoon while their children took part in a sponsored silence. The children showed great commitment and surprised everyone with how long they managed to keep silent for. Year 5 put on a Talent Show, which was fantastically compered by two of the students. They introduced a wide variety of acts that included very talented musicians, singers and comedians. There was an excellent stage manager who ensured things ran smoothly. Year 6 then opened the “Top Class Restaurant” at the end of term to a number of invited guests. The children prepared and served a variety of canapés, main courses and desserts with a good level of professionalism. Over £2280 was raised and EACH will be presented with a cheque at the beginning of the Autumn Term. For more information please call admissions on 01255 674492 or visit: www.stphilomenas.com

New Hall School

New Hall School is a boarding and day school for boys and girls aged 3-18 years. It is set in a stunning location, dominated by the former Tudor palace of Beaulieu – once owned by Henry VIII and surrounded by an historic park and gardens. They believe that a New Hall education enables students to confidently meet the challenges of the world. Here, Students of different traditions are educated in an environment where academic excellence is achieved. This is brought about in surroundings where relationships are based on trust and respect. At New Hall they operate the highly successful ‘diamond model’ structure, that is, co-education in the Preparatory School (ages 3-11), single-sex education in the Boys’ Division and Girls’ Division (11-16) and co-education in the Sixth Form (16-18). In this way, New Hall provides the best of both worlds: the benefits of a co-educational environment, together with the advantages of girls and boys being taught separately at Key Stages 3 and 4. The provision of single-sex education during formative years enables students to grow in confidence, whilst enjoying an education that is specifically tailored and that recognises the different ways in which boys and girls learn. Within the Preparatory School, they offer a rich and varied curriculum within an environment where every child is known. Small class sizes of around 20 children, along with differentiated lessons and setting for Maths and English in Years 3 and 5 respectively, ensure that pupils are appropriately challenged and make exceptional progress. Wraparound care and an optional breakfast club offer peace of mind to busy parents who know their children are in a safe, caring and familiar setting. Academic success continues to grow. They run a Gifted and Talented programme, which is proven to bring added value to examination results. In 2014, their GCSE and A Level students enjoyed a 100% success rate - 50% of grades were at A*-A. 80% of GCSE grades were at A*-B, while 76% of A Level grades were A*-B. The school also introduced an Oxbridge programme and has seen an increase in offers from both universities. The co-curricular provision is outstanding and the school’s ethos is enhanced by exceptionally strong Music, Performing Arts and Sports departments. Music groups, including liturgical and chamber choirs and a main choir, regularly tour the UK and play internationally. Sport is a key part of school life. All students have the opportunity to play a range of sports. Their facilities include a national standard athletics track, floodlit AstroTurf pitch, gym, floodlit tennis and netball courts, cricket and rugby pitches, and a 25m indoor swimming pool. Many of the students go on to regional and national representation. High academic expectations and achievements, together with outstanding pastoral care, make New Hall a wonderful place to be educated. For more information or to book your place visit: www.newhallschool.co.uk/openmorning or call 01245 236098

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Building for the Future at St Joseph’s College

St Joseph’s College in Ipswich has recently published its ‘Building for the Future’ plans. This exciting vision for the future development of the College’s 60 acre estate has been produced to complement its ambitious development plan, aimed at ensuring delivery of the highest quality educational provision. Mr Paul Clement, Chair of Governors, commented: “Just over a year ago, the College bought the freehold of its site and buildings. Now these proposals set out an ambitious plan for our future. This ambition will help to provide current and future pupils with modern, fit for purpose facilities and accommodation which will enhance their overall experience, as well as the environment in which they learn and develop as young people.” Principal Mrs Danielle Clarke added: “Whilst this is a long-term plan, it will commence imminently: I am delighted to announce that the Board of Governors has approved the development this summer of a new Design Technology Centre, creating a Science and Technology Zone which builds on their particular strengths in the STEM subjects.” Other exciting developments include a new Sixth Form Centre, boarding houses, state of the art classrooms and an extended Prep School with swimming pool. Also featured in the plan is a new Theatre and Centre for the Artsmark Gold awarded Creative & Performing Arts department and various facilities to further support the outstanding sports provision at the School, building on the new artificial floodlit sports pitch and changing facilities that were opened in 2014. “With this announcement and with the structured College Development Plan already published, the future of St Joseph’s looks stronger than ever,” concluded Mrs Clarke. The plans are available to view at www.stjos.co.uk. Please email admin@stjos.co.uk with your postal address if you would like to receive a hard copy.

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The Benefits of Learning Outdoors

At Ipswich High School, outdoor education is a huge part of the curriculum and everyday teaching. The Head of the Junior School, Mrs Eileen Fisher is passionate about the benefits of learning outdoors and ensures that the pupils harness all the opportunities provided by the outstanding natural environment in Woolverstone. “Aside from the obvious physical benefits of learning outside, pupils have a much more multisensory experience when they can see, hear, smell and touch things,” says Mrs Fisher. “This can help with stimulating creativity in literacy tasks, often igniting a pupil’s imagination and improving their story writing, poetry and art work. Most of the tasks in the woodland are child- led and consequently girls are eager to get stuck in! They never get bored as they are learning all the time and developing both their gross and fine motor skills.” Working outside promotes leadership skills in a very different way from working in the classroom. Girls take much bigger risks outdoors, whether it is physical challenges such as climbing a tree or experimenting with an investigation. Failure offers a chance to learn from your mistakes and children naturally improve their resilience and perseverance by trial and error. “We value the importance of technology at Ipswich High” says Mrs Fisher, “but time away from screens and sensory information at your fingertips is also equally as important!” To find out more about the opportunities on offer at the Woodland Pre-Prep and Junior School, please register for our next Open Day on Saturday 3rd October from 9.30am-1pm. www.ipswichhighschool. co.uk or phone admissions on 01473 201013.

SCHOOLS FEATURE

Oxford House School

“Labore confecto Gaudentes”. Joy in Achievement is the school motto.

Colchester High School

The only independent school and nursery for girls and boys from 2½ to 18 years in Colchester. The Nursery is open all year round and provides children with an extremely safe and happy start to their education while also developing them socially, emotionally and physically. The Nursery follows the Early Years Foundation Stage, supplemented with specialist teaching in PE, Music, French and ICT. The School achieves outstanding academic results thanks to the small class sizes, experienced and professional teachers, and strong pastoral support that ensure that each child achieves their full potential. In addition to promoting academic excellence, they firmly believe in the importance of developing the whole child. They therefore offer a varied and challenging extra-curricular programme of activities and experiences to try to encourage all pupils to try a new sport, learn new skills or contribute to school life, thereby building confidence, well-being and creativity. Their Sixth Form offers students a personalised programme of study which has been tailored according to their individual needs and aspirations. Small class sizes, strong pastoral support and a rich and varied enrichment programme all help ensure academic success at A-Level and that students are prepared for university or the workplace. Scholarships are available for entry into Year 7 of their Senior School and the Sixth Form. For more information or to arrange a visit, please visit www.colchesterhighschool.co.uk or contact admissions on 01206 217116.

Oxford House is a traditional Nursery and Preparatory School for girls and boys aged two and a half to eleven years. Founded in 1959, this intimate and exclusive school offers every child a complete education that puts a high emphasis on traditional values and the child centred learning of the Montessori teaching methods. The school encourages high standards in behaviour and manners as well as in academic achievement. Oxford House prides itself on achieving a high success rate in both independent and state selective schools, and during the final years pupils undergo studies geared to prepare them for external scholarship and 11+ examinations. The school aims to understand and develop the potential which all children possess and to send them on to senior schools as literate, numerate, well-mannered and happy individuals. The broad curriculum is enriched by instilling a love for literature, modern languages, music and dance. Music is a strength and optional instrumental tuition is offered. Oxford House teachers pride themselves on producing confident and articulate children. There is a mutual respect between teachers and pupils which is demonstrated by the kind and polite way those at Oxford House treat each other. Healthy eating and exercise also play an important role, with freshly prepared vegetarian meals served daily. A sensible balance of PE and sports allows swimming all year round with hockey, tag rugby, football and athletics in season. Oxford House School, 2-4 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3NE. To request a prospectus or arrange a visit to the school please call 01206 576686

www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 19

Gosfield Independent School

Gosfield School is committed to providing the very best facilities for its young people. They welcome children from the age of four and many stay throughout their school lives, leaving as young adults with excellent A-Level results. Their new Prep School, Meadow Court, opened this year and includes the latest technology and wireless connectivity, enhancing pupil learning and enabling lessons to take place inside and outside the classroom. With an academic focus on Literacy and Numeracy, pupils also follow a creative curriculum and have access to the most up to date learning materials for school work and homework. Highly qualified teachers and learning support assistants ensure all pupils are able to access the curriculum to achieve their full potential, stretching and challenging those pupils who work at a level beyond their years, and offering support to those who may struggle with certain areas of learning. Subject specialist teachers for Science, Spanish, Computing, Music, Food Technology and PE provide additional learning opportunities. With a maximum class size of 20 they maintain their high academic standards and extend every child’s individual ability. A weekly Forest School lesson takes advantage of 110 acres of beautiful parkland, improving self-confidence and developing individual and teamwork skills. An extensive after school activities programme offers pupils the opportunity to participate in a wide range of opportunities such as trampolining, archery, athletics, cross country, watercolour painting, card making, playground games and hula hooping. Their next Open Morning takes place on Saturday 10th October from 10am to 1pm. Visit gosfieldschool.org.uk or call 01787 474040 to find out more about how you can take part in their morning activities.

20 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

The best beginning for your child’s education at Ipswich Prep School

It can be an exciting but somewhat daunting time, the start of your child’s first school years. The choice of schools can be bewildering and every parent wants to make the right decision to give their child the most supportive learning environment. Ipswich Prep School is a nurturing school. They will encourage and challenge your child to enjoy learning and grow in self-confidence. Providing an excellent education for 3-11 year olds in outstanding purpose-built facilities, the school also enjoys the closeness in proximity of Ipswich School and all the Senior School Ipswich School Spring Concert 2015 at Snape has to offer, including the use of the extensive sporting facilities, vast Maltings. Photo: James Fletcher green fields and drama venues. High academic expectations complement a broad and balanced curriculum, particularly in art, music, drama and sport. This ensures excellent preparation for transition to the Senior School. Class sizes are small and pupils’ learning in all areas is challenging and fun. The wide range of co-curricular activities – including clubs such as sewing, cooking, percussion, skiing, horse-riding and sailing - also enables the girls and boys to experience something new. The school prides itself on having a caring school community with an exemplary approach to pastoral care. The next Open Morning is 26 September 2015, when both the Prep School (10am-1pm) and the Senior School (10am-2pm) will be open. Visitors will be able to look at the school during a normal day and also have the opportunity to talk with Amanda Childs, Head of Ipswich Prep, Headmaster Nicholas Weaver and other members of staff. More details are available on the school’s website: www.ipswich.suffolk.sch.uk/openday or call 01473 282800 for the Prep School and 01473 408300 for the Senior School. If you can’t make the Open Morning, please contact the school to organise a personal visit.

Schools

Friends’ School

Friends’ Junior School is a school with a difference - small, vibrant, and located in the heart of Saffron Walden. The Nursery is very much a part of the Junior School, which allows for a seamless transition between Nursery and Reception. The building is modern, light and airy with fantastic facilities for children throughout the school, giving Friends’ youngest learners the best possible start to their education. Small class sizes mean that teachers really get to know each pupil well and at Friends’ there is always a listening ear or a helping hand. Pupils enjoy a wide range of subjects, always being encouraged to produce their very best results. Swimming lessons start when children join the Nursery and all year groups make the most of the onsite Forest School. They also enjoy to be taught some subjects by specialist teachers in the Senior School. The spacious grounds allow for teaching, games and tournaments of a wide range of sports and the facilities such as the Junior School kitchen, art room and ICT suite ensure the activities programme is varied and interesting. If you are interested in seeing a school which is “successful in realising the potential and talent of each individual” (Independent School Inspectorate) then go along to their Open Morning on Saturday 17th October at 10am. You can be assured of a warm welcome. If you would like further information call Alison Stanbury on 01799 525351 or email admissions@friends.org.uk.

www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 21

BRAINTREE

Heathcote Tutors

Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. 11 Plus, GCSE and SATs preparation. Daytime tuition also available. 01206 570700 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SAT SCI SEN

Kumon

Ace Tuition

Kumon

Drop-in. Tuesdays 4.30pm-6.30pm, Saturdays 10am-12pm. Braintree Study Centre, St. Paul’s Parsonage. Mrs Kunjan Pandya 01376 339009 braintree@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT

CLACTON

Ace Tuition

Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. 11 Plus, GCSE and SATs preparation. Daytime tuition also available. 73a Station Road. Iain McKenzie 01255 688896 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN

COLCHESTER

Ace Tuition

Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. Daytime classes available for home-schooled students. Unit 3, Tollgate East, Stanway CO3 8RQ. Iain McKenzie 01206 571846 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk

11+, entrance exam and maths tuition. Roger Ashford 01206 272789 www.11plusessex.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SAT Drop-in sessions Tues, Weds, Fri 3:30pm-6:30pm, Thurs 3:30pm7:30pm and Sat 9:30am-12:30pm at Kumon Colchester North Study Centre, Highwoods Square, CO4 9SW. Ms Elaine Plumb. 01206 615458 www.kumon.co.uk/colchester-north ENG MAT

Theatre Fun Academy

Coaching for independent school drama scholarships. High success rate with St. Mary’s School & St. Joseph’s College and Sylvia Young. Tel:07715 324267 email:theatrefun@hotmail.co.uk visit: www.theatrefun.co.uk

ESSEX

Fleet Tutors

Private tuition in your own home by qualified, experienced, CRB-checked tutors. Call 0845 6445452 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

11+ ENG ICT LAN MAT MUS SAT SCI SEN

HARLOW

Kumon

ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN

Drop-in sessions Mondays and Wednesdays 4pm-6pm at Harlow Study Centre, St John’s Arts and Recreation Centre, St John’s Walk. Mrs Chizuru Cheung 01279 423345 Harlow@kumoncentre.co.uk

Anna Spurgeon BA Hons. PGCE

ENG MAT

11+ tuition. Very high pass rate. Small group sessions. Twelve years 11+ experience. Call Anna on 01206 738239/ 07500 339181 11+

Colchester Tutors

Excellent results achieved in 11+, Maths, English, reading catch-up, SATs and GCSE preparation. Individual and group lessons available. 1st group lesson free. Kate Zepeda M.A., M.Sc, 07952 645185 katezepeda@gmail.com 11+ ENG MAT SAT SCI SEN

First Class Learning

Tuition for children aged from 6-16 years in English, Maths and Science. Mason Rd (behind The Range), Lorraine McKenzie 01206 570700 colchester@firstclasslearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT

HARWICH

Ace Tuition

Community Centre, Barrack Lane. Iain McKenzie 01255 688896 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk ENG LAN MAT SCI

WITHAM

SchoolServe

Educational consultancy offering individual tuition at Centre or home by registered teachers. 01376 502561 or 07751 074616 or 01621 858636 www.schoolserve.info 11+ ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN

LISTINGS KEY TO SERVICES 11+

11 PLUS

ENG ENGLISH ICT COMPUTING LAN LANGUAGES MAT MATHEMATICS MUS MUSIC SAT SATs SCI SCIENCE SEN SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS 22 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

LEARNING & EDUCATION

Free Trial - Kumon Study Centre

Homework - How to Help at Home

Retired teacher, Judith Smith offers the following tips on ways that parents can help their children with homework. • Check the homework diary/homeschool book first to make sure you know what has to be done. • Try to ensure that homework is done before your child is too tired and perhaps offer a reward {bribe!} when it is completed. • Make sure the room is as quiet as possible with no distractions. • Try to provide a relaxed and stress free and fun environment for you both. When reading with young children, watch out for signs, captions and labels in shops and on TV. Older ones can expand reading through websites and using texts and emails. More reluctant readers will probably enjoy reading comics as short captions are less daunting. Using libraries is very useful for expanding reading skills. • Museums and exhibitions can support topic work for older children. • Schools often run sessions to show parents how something is taught - if they don’t, ask the school to provide them. Most teachers will also see parents after school as long as an appointment has been made. • Be encouraging and praise their work. If you do see mistakes try to pick out one or two spelling mistakes to avoid them feeling that all their work is wrong. • Use the internet - there are many helpful sites and resources for you and your child. Some sites such as BBC Bitesize make learning fun with games which encourages children to do that little bit more without realising.

Kumon offers individualised worksheet-based maths and English study programmes which are tailored to all ages and abilities. Established for over 50 years, the Kumon programmes enable children to develop their study skills and confidently tackle advanced work. Kumon develops children through the acquisition of independent learning skills, rather than teaching in the conventional sense. Through daily study of the Kumon programmes, your child will develop the ability to learn for themselves so they do not become dependent on – or limited by – the skills and knowledge of others. At Kumon, they have a desire to create a generation of confident, independent learners who take pride in their studies. The primary aim of the Kumon Method is to develop independent learning skills. To achieve this, Kumon study takes students beyond the level they are studying at school and provides learning materials which are unfamiliar and compel them to develop new learning strategies to deal effectively with new challenges. At Kumon, learning is always for the long run: the individualised programmes enable students to progress to an advanced level, at their own pace, ensuring they maximise their ability and begin to realise their unlimited potential. Kumon Educational is the UK’s largest supplementary education provider, with over 70,000 students studying at more than 650 study centres. The Study Centre’s are offering a two-week Free Trial (14 days) for new students enrolling between Monday 21 September to Saturday 31 October. Take advantage of this opportunity and find out what your child can achieve through the Kumon Maths and English Programmes, Contact: Braintree Study Centre on 01376 339009 Colchester North Study Centre on 01206 615458 Harlow Study Centre on 01279 423345

www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 23

Diary Dates Use our comprehensive list of events to ensure your family time is packed full of fun this Autumn. Sat 19

Wed 23

Harry Potter Wizards Hunt

Creepy Crawlies Club

Join in with the magical fun! 11am-5pm. Blake House Craft Centre, Nr Braintree, CM77 6RA. 07851 041483. www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk

Sat 19 175th Birthday

Celebrate 175 years of Essex Police with cream teas, a photo booth, cars and dogs. All ages. Essex Police Museum, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150. www.essex.police.uk/museum Free Event

Sat 19 Dinosaurs!

Wed 16 Creepy Crawlies Club

Explore, discover new things and finish with a wildlife themed story. For accompanied children under 5. 10:30am-12pm. £5/£8 for two siblings. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172 www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Sat 19 & Sun 20 Tudor & Apple Weekend

100 Tudors spread throughout the Manor. Plus taste different apple varieties. 11am-5pm. £13.90 (adult); £10.40 (5-15yrs). Kentwell Hall, Long Melford, CO10 9BA.

Dino themed fun for future palaeontologists. Age: 6yrs+, accompanied. 1.30-3.30pm. £5. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. BE

Sat 19 International Puppet Festival 10.30am-4pm. Witham.

www.withaminternationalpuppetfestival.co.uk

Sat 19 Nearly New Sale

2-4pm. Adult entry £2, children free. Hylands School, Hatfield Grove, Chelmsford, CM1 3DF

Sat 19 Tower’s Tenth

Storytelling, face painting, crafts, music, food and drink. 12-5pm. Martello Tower, Jaywick, CO15 2LF. www.jaywickmartellotower.org Free Event

Sun 20

KEY TO DIARY DATES:

= Booking Essential Free Event = No charge To the best of our knowledge this information is correct at the time of going to press. To avoid disappointment, please check with the event holder before setting off. If you are holding an event for families and would like to include it in our next issue, please email the details to: diarydates@kidaround.biz BE

24 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Annual Steam Gala

See steam engines in action, go on a train ride, walk through the Enchanted Fairy and Elf Walk, plus arts and crafts. 10.30am – 5pm. Audley End Miniature Railway, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JB. www.audley-end-railway.co.uk

Sun 20 Open Day

Gates open at 11.30am and close at 5pm. Guided tours at 12.30pm and 2.30pm. The Gardens of Easton Lodge, Gt Dunmow, CM6 2BB. www.eastonlodge.co.uk

Fri 25 Fingringhoe Fledglings

Monthly club for the under 5’s with a different wildlife theme, outdoor exploration, crafts, songs and stories. 10am-12pm. £5/ accompanied child/£3 siblings. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678 BE

Sat 26 & Sun 27 Rockingham Fair

Including fighting knights, circus skills, arts and crafts. Rockingham Castle, Market Harborough, LE16 8TH. www.oakleighfairs.co.uk

Sat 26 & Sun 27 Apple Weekend

Apple bobbing and tasting. Audley End House, CB11 4JF. 01799 522842. www.english-heritage.org.uk/audley

Sat 26

Nature Club

A monthly nature club. Age: 7-11yrs. 10am-12pm. £3. Danbury Country Park, CM3 4AW. 01245 222350

Sat 26 Bat Walk

Learn about the nocturnal world of bats and use a bat detector. Age: 5yrs+. 7-9pm. £5. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. BE

Sat 26 Apple Day

Make delicious juice, plus family games and crafts. 12-3pm. Big Garden, Highwoods Country Park, Colchester.

Sun 27 Cycle Ride

IAO St Helena Hospice. A choice of three routes through the Dedham Vale. Min.age 5yrs. www.sthelenahospice.org.uk/cycleride15 BE

Sun27

Sat 3 & Sun 4

Fun Day & Dog Show

Food Festival

IAO East Anglian Children’s Hospices. Including petting zoo, bouncy castles, face painting, Medieval archery. 12-5pm. Adult: £5; under 16s free. Layer Marney Tower, CO5 9US. www.layermarneytower.co.uk

Sun 27 Science Discovery Day

Plus a special astrodome! 10am – 5pm. Free entry (£2 charge for astrodome). Sandford Mill, CM2 6NY.

Sun 27 The Big Sleepover

Bring a sleeping bag and stay the night in the Long Gallery. Torch lit trail, midnight feast, fun and games, bonfire and burgers. 8pm-8am. £25. Under 16s must be accompanied. Layer Marney Tower, CO5 9US. www.layermarneytower.co.uk

Wed 30 Creepy Crawlies Club

Over 150 exhibitors will showcase their produce. 10am-5pm (Sat), 10am-4pm (Sun). £6 (under 16s free). The Cattle Market, Melton Mowbray, LE13 1JY. www.meltonmowbrayfoodfestival.co.uk

Sat 3 & Sun 4 Max’s Weekender

IAO the Addenbrookes’ Children’s Cancer & Brain Tumour Ward. Sat: 10am-1pm: ‘Max’s Market’ - craft market plus raffle and silent auction. 7.30pm: hard rock/metal concert (tickets avail Saffron Walden TIO). Sun: family fun day. Great Chesterford Community Centre, Saffron Walden, CB10 1NS. Free Entry

Sat 3 Family Orienteering

Learn how to use a compass before testing your skills on the reserve. 10am-3pm. £5/family. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678.

Sun 4 Apple Day

Tasting and identifying different varieties plus craft displays, traditional bread baking. 11am4pm. Cressing Temple, Braintree CM77 8PD. www.cressingtemplegardens.org. uk Free Entry

Sun 4 Heli Hounds Dog Walk

Five mile route. Registration 10am, walk starts at 11am. Pre-registration £5/dog, £7/ dog on the day. Earls Colne Business Park. 0345 2417 690. www.EssexAirAmbulance.com

Sun 4 Iron Age Roundhouse

Explore the replica Iron Age roundhouse and learn how ancestors lived 2000 years ago. 1-4pm. Chapel Lane car park, Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. Free Event

Sun 4 Take on the Trail 2015

Sat 3 Oct – Sun 29 (Nov) The Sorrell Exhibition

Featuring the art works of the Sorrell family. Chelmsford Museum, CM2 9AQ. Free Event

Run, walk or jog 5 or 10 miles starting at Langham Community Centre. 5 miles: adults/ £10, under 16s/ £5. 10 miles: adults/£15, under 16s/£7.50. Min. age 5yrs. www.sthelenahospice.org.uk/trail15 BE

Sun 4 Small Trains Day

Including a 7 ¼ inch miniature railway. Entry price covers the event, access to the museum and unlimited rides. Adult: £8; Child: (4-15) £4. East Anglian Railway Museum, Wakes Colne, CO6 2DS. www.earm.co.uk

Sun 4 Horse Rescue Open Day

Meet the animals. 11am-3pm. Glendenning Farm, Thorrington, CO7 8JB. 07979 033802

Thur 8 Little Sherlock Holmes

Rhyme, stories, trails plus craft activity. Age: 2 -4 yrs. 10 -10.45am / 11.30am 12.15pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150. www.essex.police.uk/museum

Fri 9 - Sun 11 Sea Shanty Festival

Including street theatre, historical re-enactment and pirates. Harwich.

Sat 10 Allotment Club

Learn how to plant seeds. Suitable all ages. Lakes Car Park at 10am. Bring a trowel and gardening gloves. Danbury Country Park, CM3 4AW. 01245 222350

Fri 16 Fingringhoe Fledglings

ADVERTISING IN KIDAROUND WORKS. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO FIND OUT MORE, PLEASE DO CALL US ON 01371 238 071 OR GO ONLINE TO DOWNLOAD OUR MEDIA CARD

www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 25

Sat 17

Sat 24

Wed 28

NCT Nearly New Sale

Nature Club

Bushcraft

Good quality baby to teens clothes, toys, books and nursery equipment. £2. Members: 12.30pm. non-members: 1pm. St John Payne School, Chelmsford. 01245 201121. nctsalechelmsford@gmail.com. www.nct.org.uk/nns

Sun 18 Onesie Runsie

A 5k and a 1k route around Castle Park, Colchester. Adult entry: £15; Under 12’s: £5. For more information or to book a place visit www.headwayessex.org.uk.

Thur 22 – Sun 1 (Nov) Glowing Lantern Parade

Explore the Halloween woodland decorations and build a lantern. Show starts at dusk. Open daily 10am – 5:30pm. Entry from £13.50. BeWILDerwood, Hoveton, Norfolk, NR12 8JW. 01692 633033

Sat 24 Model Railway Club

Working layouts, trade stands and refreshments. 10am - 4.30pm. Adult: £4.50, Senior: £4, Child: £2, under 5s free. Free exhibition guide and parking. St.John Payne School, Patching Hall Lane, CM1 4BS. www.chelmsford-and-district-mrc.webs.com

Sat 24 Clay Creatures

Use natural materials to create some ‘creature features’. 1.303.30pm. £5/ child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678.

A monthly nature club. Age: 7-11yrs. 10am-12pm. £3. Danbury Country Park, CM3 4AW. 01245 222350

Sat 24

Colchester Film Festival

Screenings of family friendly short films. Firstsite Arts Gallery, Colchester. http://colchesterfilmfestival.com/ Free Event

Mon 26 – Fri 30 Spooky Woodlands Fun

Art and craft plus garden explorer trail. 10am-3pm. £2/child plus garden admission. RHS Hyde Hall, Chelmsford. www.rhs.org.uk/hydehall

Mon 26 Monday Madness

Nature trails, fun and games. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. 10:30am - 12:30pm. £5/ child + 1 adult. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Mon 26 Campfire Cooking

Cook some campfire treats. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. 1-3pm. £5/child + 1 adult. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Tue 27 Horrendous History

Wed 28 Every Drawing Tells a Story

Make printing blocks with a range of materials and print a story on fabric. 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30, 2pm, 3pm. Ipswich Art School. 01473 433691 Free Event BE

Wed 28 Family Bike Ride

For families with children age 10yrs+ (must be accompanied). 2-5pm. Chapel Lane car park, Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. Bike hire available 01702 551076. www.hadleigh-park.co.uk/events/

Wed 28 Abberton Adventurers

Holiday club for unaccompanied 8-12 yr olds. Activities including pond dipping, bug hunting and campfire cooking. 10:30am– 2.30pm. £10. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk

Thur 29 Paper Pumpkin Lantern

Paper pumpkin craft. All ages, accompanied. 12-3pm. £1. Lowewood Museum, Hoddesdon, Herts, EN11 8BH, 01992 445596, www.broxbourne.gov.uk/ lowewoodmuseum

Find out about bog bodies and the disgusting things people kept in their houses! Age: 7-11yrs. 10am / 2pm. £4. Chapel Lane car park, Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. 0845 603 7624

Thur 29

Tue 27

Thur 29

3D Animal Masks

Create masks using materials inspired by the Museum collections. 10am – 12pm / 1.30 – 3.30pm. £3/ child, accompanying adults free. Ipswich Museum, IP1 3QH. BE

Tue 27 Brambly Hedge

Join the mice of Brambly Hedge. Bring a picnic lunch. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. 10:30am-2:00pm. £5/child + 1 adult. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

26 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Build dens and toast marshmallows. Age: 2yrs+. 1.30-3.30pm. £5/ child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. BE

Meet John Constable

Find out about the artist’s life. 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30, 2pm, 3pm. Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich. Free Event

Bugs and Beasties

Including bug art and a bug nature trail. 10.30am-12.30pm. £5/child + 1 adult. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Thur 29 Pond Dipping

Plus pond nature trail. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. 1-3pm. £5/child + 1 adult. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Fri 30

Sun 8

Fri 27 & Sat 28

Fingringhoe Fledglings

Campfire Cooking

Christmas Fair

Thur 12

Free Event

Monthly club for the under 5’s with a different wildlife theme, outdoor exploration, crafts, songs and stories. 10am-12pm. £5/accompanied child/£3 siblings. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve,CO5 7DN. 01206 729678

1.30-3.30pm. £5/child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. BE BE

Go to p30 for Halloween events

‘Help’

Rhyme, stories, trails plus craft activity. Age: 2 -4 yrs. 10 -10.45am / 11.30am - 12.15pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum

Sat 14 & Sun 15 Craft Village Festive Fair

Christmas gifts plus family fun. 10am - 4pm. Barleylands Craft Village, Billericay, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253. www.barleylands.co.uk. F ree Entry

Sat 14 Christmas Bazaar

Plus face painting, music and raffle. 9.30am-4pm. Colchester Town Hall. www.sthelenahospice.org.uk/bazaar15 Free Event

Sun 1 & Sun 22 Iron Age Roundhouse

Explore the replica Iron Age roundhouse and learn how ancestors lived 2000 years ago. 1-4pm. Chapel Lane car park, Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. Free Event

Fri 6 Lantern Walk

Make a colourful lantern then join a lantern-lit procession to the Castle and back. Age: 3yrs+. 5.30pm. £4. Chapel Lane car park, Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. 0845 603 7624. http://hadleigh-park.co.uk/events/

Sat 14

Fingringhoe Fledglings

Sat 28 & Sun 29 Nov, Sat 5 Dec Christmas Special

Visit Father Christmas and his helpers in the woods. Each child receives a gift. Times tbc. Audley End Miniature Railway, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JB. www.audley-end-railway.co.uk BE

Sat 28 & Sun 29 Victorian Christmas

Sun 15 Den Building

Sat 28

2-4pm. Adult entry £2, children free. Hylands School, Hatfield Grove, Chelmsford, CM1 3DF

Build a den in the woods, plus follow the survival trail. Age: 2yrs+, must be accompanied. 1.303.30pm. £5. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678.

Sat 21 Nature Club

Sat 7 Allotment Club

Sat 21

Learn how to plant seeds. Suitable all ages. Lakes Car Park at 10am. Bring a trowel and gardening gloves. Danbury Country Park, CM3 4AW. 01245 222350

Fri 27

Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Victorian Christmas. Audley End House, CB11 4JF. 01799 522842. www.english-heritage.org.uk/audley

Nearly New Sale

A monthly nature club. Age: 7-11yrs. 10am-12pm. £3. Danbury Country Park, CM3 4AW. 01245 222350

All ages. 10am – 2pm (Fri); 10am4pm (Sat). Essex Police Museum, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150. www.essex.police.uk/museum.

Astronomy Open Evening

What does a galaxy look like? Event will run only if skies are clear. 5.30 – 7.30pm. Chapel Lane car park, Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. www.hadleigh-park.co.uk/events/

NSPCC Fayre

Offering a unique selection of stylish gifts. 10am-4pm. Adults £2. Mersea Island School, CO5 8QX

Sun 29 Christmas Lights Switch On

Approx. 4.15pm, by Father Christmas and the Mayor. Saffron Walden. Free Entry

Go to p28 for Firework Displays

Free event

Mon 23 Late Night Christmas Shopping

Including craft marquee and festivities, hog roast, firework finale. 6-10pm. Blake House Craft Centre, Nr Braintree, CM77 6RA. www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk

www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 27

Sat 31 Oct Fireworks Extravaganza

Pier open. Free display. Clacton Pier. www.clactonpier.org.uk

Sun 1 & Fri 6 Nov Toddler Firework Evening

Low noise fireworks for little ones plus fairground rides (at extra cost). 5 - 7pm (fireworks 6pm). £6/ adult, £3.75/child (buy online). Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, Billericay, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253. www.barleylands.co.uk

Thur 5 Nov King Coel’s Kittens Fireworks

Gates open 6pm. Upper Castle Park, Colchester.

Thur 5 Nov Braintree Rugby Club Fireworks

Plus fair, BBQ, Funky Voices Community Choir. Gates and funfair 5.30pm, choir 7pm, bonfire 7.45pm, fireworks 8pm. Adult; £6, Child: £4. Beckers Green Road, Braintree. 01376 323296

Fri 6 Nov Fireworks Night

Family ticket £15 in advance from school office, or £5 per ticket on the night. Bar, food, stalls, and entertainment. Gates open 5.30pm, fireworks at 7.30pm. Felsted Primary School, Watch House Green, CM6 3EB

Fri 6 Nov Firework Display

Gates open at 6pm. Fireworks 7pm. Advance tickets: Adults £7.50, child £2.50, ¬family £15. On the gate: Adults £8, ¬child £3, family £20. Thurstable School field, Maypole Road, Tiptree, CO5 OEW.

Fri 6 Nov Big Night Out

Bonfire, fun fair, BBQ and firework display. Gates open 6pm, fireworks 8pm. Advance tickets: £5/£3. Melford Hall Park, Long Melford. 07980 526067

Fri 6 Nov Firework Display

Plus refreshments and glow toys. Gates open 6pm, fireworks 7.30pm. Old Heath Community Primary School, Colchester, CO2 8DD (Entrance to fireworks via Abbots Road). 01206 794334.

Sat 7 Nov Bonfire and Fireworks Display

Gates open 5pm, Bonfire lit at 5.30, Fireworks 6pm. Tickets available on the gate. Earls Colne Primary School.

A hot and spicy chilli - perfect for bonfire night with friends & family

Serves: 6 - 8 (double the ingredients to make for a bigger party, plus you can freeze the left overs!) Time: 50 minutes Ingredients • ½ tbsp oil • 400g lean beef mince • 2 onions, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 800g (2 cans) of chopped tomatoes • 2 tbsp tomato puree • 1 tsp chilli powder • 1 tsp cumin • 1 tsp coriander • 1 red pepper, chopped • 1 can of kidney beans • 1 tsp cocoa powder (optional – sounds odd but does enhance the sauce to make it even more scrumptious) Method Brown the mince over a gentle heat, stirring to stop it from sticking. Add the onion and garlic to the mince and cook for two to three minutes. Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, spices and cocoa powder (optional). Bring the sauce to the boil, then lower the heat and simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes. Add the chopped pepper and simmer for five minutes. Add the drained kidney beans and simmer for another five minutes. Season with a little salt and pepper to taste Serving suggestions: Oven baked potatoes, rice, tortilla chips or fill a tortilla wrap and cover with tin foil to avoid hot chilli leaking out.

28 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Section Title It’s time to discover at Colchester Museums

With a unique mix of fascinating displays, the latest technology and hands on activities, there is lots for your family to explore and discover at Colchester Museums. There are lots of activities and features across the three Colchester Museums sites, Colchester Castle, Hollytrees Museum and the Natural History Museum. Each museum has a unique story to tell about the history of Britain’s oldest recorded town. Colchester Castle has fascinated thousands of families with its exciting new displays, since it reopened to the public following a £4.3m renovation project last year. It is the biggest Norman Keep in Europe and the improvements have positioned it as one of the country’s leading heritage attractions. A mix of of hands-on activities such as virtual Roman Circus chariot racing, digital app reconstructions and incredible ancient objects really animate the stories of the past and bring history to life! Located in an award-winning, scenic parkland location, Colchester Castle is a charming attraction, offering an interactive, fun and engaging experience for the whole family. Only a short walk away, in the Castle Park you will find the captivating Hollytrees Museum. This beautiful Georgian building takes in domestic life and childhood in Colchester over the past 300 years with plenty to see and do. The Natural History Museum is only across the road from Hollytrees. Here you can really take a walk on the wild side and find out about wildlife habitats, biodiversity and climate change. You can keep up to date with all the latest news, facts and holiday activities from the museums service by following them on twitter: @ColMuseums, or liking their facebook page: www.facebook.com/ColchesterCastle. Check out the website for details about activities and how to make a visit: www.cimuseums.org.uk

Join in the adventure at BeWILDerwood

BeWILDerwood is a huge, award winning forest of family fun and outdoor adventure in Norfolk. It’s a world full of treehouses, zip wires, jungle bridges and storytelling; the most unique visitor attraction around! Beautifully designed in keeping with its natural surroundings, it is truly an enchanted place. Unlike other attractions, there are no noisy rides, no electronics and no junk food! This marshy woodland is a true haven for inquisitive young minds. Enjoy lazy boat rides across Scary Lake, dressing up and joining in with the enchanting daily storytelling, crossing Jungle Bridges and visiting tree houses, building dens with bracken and sticks, whizzing down Wobbly Wires and zooming down Slippery Slopes. With special events taking place within the park throughout the season at no extra cost, this is a world with more than a little sprinkling of fairy dust. BeWILDerwood really is a breath of fresh air. Web www.bewilderwood.co.uk Email explore@bewilderwood.co.uk Tel 01692 633033

www.kidaround.biz• •Autumn Autumn1515• •North NorthEssex Essex•• 29 www.kidaround.biz

Section Title G

Spooky Special Halloween Events

Sun 18 Oct

Mon 26 - Sat 31 Oct

Halloween Fun

Shriek Week & Fright Nights

Spooky Halloween fun in the gardens for younger visitors. Gates open at 11.30am and close at 5pm. Refreshments available. The Gardens of Easton Lodge, Gt Dunmow, CM6 2BB. www.eastonlodge.co.uk Wed 21 - Sat 31 Oct

Halloween Trail

Buy a trail booklet and solve puzzles on this self-guided trail. Suitable for families. 10am 4pm. £3 per booklet. Belhus Woods, South Ockendon RM15 4XJ. 01708 865628 Sat 24 Oct – Sun 1 Nov

Halloween Special Take a train ride through the woods to visit the Witches at their Haunted House. Each child receives a gift. Times tbc. Audley End Miniature Railway, Saffron Walden, CB11 4JB. www.audley-end-railway.co.uk Booking Essential

Sat 24 Oct – Sun 1 Nov

Quiz Trail A pumpkin themed quiz trail. 50p. Chelmsford Museum, CM2 9AQ. 01245 605700. www.chelsmford.gov.uk/museums

Mon 26 - Fri 30 Oct

Pumpkinfest

Free pumpkins for all children, pumpkin carving, snakes and creepy crawlies, biscuit decorating, pumpkin trail. 10am – 4.30pm. Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, Billericay, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253. www.barleylands.co.uk Mon 26 - Sat 31 Oct

Spooky Halloween Trail Can you work out the answer to the Spooky Trail? Free Halloween present for all children. Poplar Nurseries, Marks Tey. 01206 210374. Free Event Mon 26 Oct - Sun 1 Nov

Halloween Train Special Do you dare to ride the spooky train around the gardens? Poplar Miniature Railway, Poplar Nurseries, Marks Tey. Normal fares apply. www.poplarrailway.co.uk

Spooky themed displays and activities including The Haunted Mansion. Colchester Zoo, CO3 5SL. www.colchesterzoo.org Tue 27 Oct

Spooky Lantern Making Bring a wide-topped glass jar and turn it into a spooky lantern. Age: 6yrs+.11.30am1pm and 2-3.30pm. £6 child/ lantern. Visitor Centre, Weald Country Park, Brentwood, CM14 5QS. 01277 261343. www.visitparks.co.uk Booking Essential

Tue 27 Oct

Pumpkin Carving & Crafts Bring your own pumpkin. Plus Halloween crafts. 10am-3pm. £5. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. Wed 28 – Fri 30 Oct

Potions Lesson

Join Professor Snipe’s potion class. Come in fancy dress. 10am-12pm (2-4pm Fri). £5/ child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. Booking Essential

Wed 28 Oct

Halloween Masks

All ages. 10am – 4pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150. www.essex.police.uk/museum Wed 28 Oct

Creepy Clay Pumpkins Make a creepy clay pumpkin for Halloween. 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. £5 for 1 adult + 1 child; 2nd child £3. Chelmsford Museum, CM2 9AQ. 01245 605700. Booking Essential

Wed 28 Oct

Lantern Making

Bring a wide-topped jar and make a spooky Halloween lantern. 11am-12.30pm and 1.30-3pm. £5 per lantern/ child. Belhus Woods, South Ockendon RM15 4XJ. 01708 865628 Booking Essential

Thur 29 Oct

Vampire Bat Hunt

Spot the bats and earn a prize. Come in Hallowe’en costume. Age: 3-8yrs. 10.30am-2.30pm. £4. Chapel Lane car park, Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. www.hadleigh-park.co.uk/events/

30 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Thur 29

Pumpkin Carving

Hollow out and carve a pumpkin. 11am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-3pm. £5 per child/ pumpkin. Belhus Woods, South Ockendon RM15 4XJ. 01708 865628 Booking Essential

Wed 28 – Fri 30 Oct

Spooky Fun

Join the ghost trail, ghostly arts and crafts and pumpkin throwing. Cressing Temple Barns, Witham Road, Braintree, CM77 8PD Fri 30 & Sat 31 Oct

Spooky Night

Fairground rides, snakes and creepy crawlies, disco, safe trick or treating. 6.30 - 9pm. £9.50. Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, Billericay, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253. www.barleylands.co.uk. Fri 30 & Sat 31 Oct

Halloween

Pumpkin hunt, competitions and spooktacular fun! 10am5pm. Blake House Craft Centre, Blake End, Nr Braintree, CM77 6RA. 07851 041483. www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk Fri 30 & Sat 31 Oct

“Steam and Scream!”

Full-size ghost train, plus fancy dress competition and entertainment. Epping Ongar Railway, CM5 9BN. www.eorailway.co.uk Booking Essential

Fri 30 Oct

Potions and Wizardry Mix potions and cast spells. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. 10:30am12:30pm. £5/child + 1 adult. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk Booking Essential

Fri 30 Oct

Spooky Craft

Halloween crafts. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. 1-3pm. £5/child + 1 adult. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk

Sat 31 Oct

The Nutty Professor’s Halloween Disaster Trail The Professor will provide clues to find the escaped zombies and the secret formula to save the world! (last section of trail is quite scary and fake blood riddled!). Teams of 4-10 people. Varying start times between 7.30 and 8pm. £5/ adult; £3/child. Visitor Centre, High Woods Country Park, Colchester. www.colchester.gov.uk/countrypark Booking Essential

Sat 31 Oct

Halloween Trail

Follow the map around the park and solve the Halloween puzzle. 11am-3pm. £1/ map (free if you come in fancy dress!). Visitor Centre, High Woods Country Park, Colchester. www.colchester.gov.uk/countrypark Sat 31 Oct

Fright Night

Can you make it around the nature reserve and survive the ghosts and ghouls that lurk on the way? Bring a torch. Accompanied children of all ages welcome. 6-7.30pm. £6/child + 1 adult. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk Booking Essential

Sat 31 Oct

Halloween by Firelight Including firelighting, campfire cooking and a bat walk. 3-7pm. £12. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. 01206 729678. Booking Essential

Fri 31 Oct

Halloween Party

Dress up if you like!. 10am 12pm (under 4’s), 1pm - 3pm (all ages) & 4pm - 6pm (all ages). £4 for Under 4’s Party & £6 for other parties (includes a Meal Deal & Drink). Space Kingdom, Gorse Lane Industrial Estate, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 4XA. 01255 430895. www.spacekingdom.co.uk Booking Essential

Booking Essential

Sat 31 Oct & Sun 1 Nov

Spooky Days Out with Thomas East Anglian Railway Museum, Chappel, Colchester. www.earm.co.uk

SPOOKY SPECIAL FEATURE

Join the spooky fun in Essex Country Parks

The leaves are changing colour, the nights are starting to draw in and the days are beginning to feel a little fresh. Autumn is the season of mellow fruitfulness, and now is the time to explore Essex Country Parks for the berries, seeds and nuts from the trees and hedgerows. Enjoy the crisp air, kick that pile of leaves into the air, and let your imagination run with the spooky activities that Essex Country Parks has prepared. Traditional family fun is to be had at the Halloween Trails at Belhus Woods and Thorndon Country Park where you can guide yourself through the woods with Halloween hokum and riddles to solve. There will be plenty of scary surprises on offer at the other Essex Country Parks too, including pumpkin carving at Belhus Woods and a Creepy Crawlies Trail at Thorndon Country Park. The Essex Country Parks website has all the details at www.visitparks.co.uk The popular Spooky Fun event returns to Cressing Temple Barns on 28, 29, 30 October. Join the ghost trail, ghostly arts and crafts and pumpkin throwing in this spooktastic seasonal fun. Become a #CountryParkExplorer and win a prize Post a picture of your fun day out at an Essex Country Park on social media and you could win an Essex Country Parks six-month car park season ticket. All you have to do is post a photo on one of their Twitter or Facebook pages using the hashtag #CountryParkExplorer and then the hashtag of the park where the picture was taken: #Danbury, #Weald, #BelhusWoods, #Thorndon, #GreatNotley, #CudmoreGrove, #CressingTemple, #MarshFarm. Wild Wednesdays Wild Wednesday is a free event for the whole family to enjoy every Wednesday during school holidays between 11am-2pm at Danbury Country Park. It’s all about adventure and getting close to nature. Activities include mud kitchen, building den, nature trails, pond dipping, natural crafts, tree climbing, splashing in puddles, kicking leaves, finding fish and much more. To find out about all the amazing events at Essex County Parks, visit www.visitparks.co.uk

www.kidaround.biz www.kidaround.biz• •Autumn Autumn1515• •North NorthEssex Essex•• 31

Have some terror-ific fun

Just a short drive from Colchester finds you at the Essex Wildlife Trusts’ Abberton Reservoir Nature Reserve and Visitor Centre, which will have been transformed for their annual ‘Fright Night’ on Saturday 31st October 6:00pm-7.30pm £6/child + 1 adult. Are you brave enough to walk around the nature reserve at night? Head out on the spooky walk and look out for the ghosts and ghouls that lurk in the undergrowth. A hot chocolate will be waiting for you on your return to the visitor centre where you can meet some live birds of prey. Advanced booking is essential for this event on 01206 738172

32 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Autumn Events At Audley End Miniature Railway Sunday 20 September Lord Braybrooke’s Annual Steam Gala Enjoy a family fun day out at the Audley End Miniature Railway on Sunday, 20th September for Lord Braybrooke’s Annual Steam Gala. Get the chance to see all Lord Braybrooke’s Steam Engines out in action and take a trip around their 1.5 mile track, travelling through the beautiful woodland of Audley End and passing over the River Cam. Take a walk through the magical Enchanted Fairy and Elf Walk to spot all the tiny Fairies and Elves hiding in their tree houses and make a Fairy Wand or Magic Stick with one of their very own Fairies or Elves. You can even get creative at the arts and crafts area! Relax in the large picnic and play area or treat yourself to some home-made, locally sourced hot and cold food and drink from the Signal Box Café. Site opens 10.30am – 5.00pm. Visit their website www.audley-end-railway.co.uk for more information on the event. Halloween Dress up in your favourite Halloween costume and experience a spooooooky Halloween train ride through the woodland of the Audley End Miniature Railway to visit the Witches hiding in their Haunted House. Watch out for the mysterious characters along the way but make sure you behave yourself otherwise the Witches may well cast a spell on you! Each child will receive a spooooooky Halloween gift. Suitable for all ages. Open on the 24th, 25th, 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th & 31st October and the 1st November. Train times to be confirmed. And don’t forget, Father Christmas will be visiting them in December! For more information on all events happening in Autumn, please visit www.audley-end-railway.co.uk

SPOOKY SPECIAL FEATURE

Zombie Apocalypse - themed laser tag day

Take a break from the children this half term and have three hours of peace and quiet! What could be better than your children running around in the fresh air, fully supervised in the safe Laser Mayhem environment? Don’t worry it won’t be scary - just completely safe, pure adrenalin fun! Zombie themes are massive at the moment and Laser Mayhem is proud to present Zombie Apocalypse on 28th of October. There will be missions based around classics like Call of Duty Black Ops, zombie missions and The Walking Dead. Staff will be dressed as characters to interact with play as a zombie and as a survivor. Using the latest in laser tag equipment, you will be put into teams with different missions. Each team will have staff dressed as characters from the game to take you around and mission brief you. Each team will have different themed missions and abilities. Laser Mayhem has awesome post-apocalyptic scenery with real battle tanks, planes, helicopters and a new to scale replica Call of Duty map. The Zombie-Themed day will be very different from a normal day as you will be split in teams and have a member of staff to look after you. There will be a lot more freedom as you will have to get resources, find refuge against both other zombies and ( just as dangerous!) the other survivors. It will be a fun, action-packed battle of survival. Will you take on a horde of Zombies or run for your lives? You will need your wits and to work as a team or get eaten alive! Don’t worry mums, Laser Mayhem have designed the day to be suitable for kids aged from year 2 at school, so it won’t be scary and they will be very well looked after. Parents can feel free to join in. There is so much planned for Zombie Apocalypse, it will be a fantastic day like no other. Laser Mayhem also run laser tag birthday parties all year round. They have eight different laser tag fields which are completely separate from the fourteen paintball playing fields. Weather is not a problem as there is one indoor playing field. After the party play you can bring your own food or buy Laser Mayhem’s pizzas. Every group can have their own table in the party room and drinks are included in the package. Zombie Apocalypse will be hugely popular at only £19.99 per child per session, with limited spaces. Choose between 10am-1pm or 2-5pm. Hurry and book now! You can also book your birthday party for any time. T: 01708 688517, F: 01708 688426 visit www.laser-mayhem.co.uk. Like them on www.facebook.com/laser-mayhem

www.kidaround.biz• •Autumn Autumn1515• •North NorthEssex Essex•• 33 www.kidaround.biz

Free pumpkins & more at Barleylands

From 26th to 30th October join in spooky half term fun in the Barleylands Farm Park. Every visiting child will receive a FREE pumpkin plus there are extra activities galore including a pumpkin trail, pumpkin carving and biscuit decorating. Make sure to visit all the snakes and creepy crawlies in the Reptile House too! Halloween Spooky Night returns after dark on 30th & 31st October with new attractions including a double decker ghost train ride, and on 1st & 6th November there’ll be special Toddler Firework Evenings full of colourful, low noise fireworks. Barleylands is in Billericay, CM11 2UD. Tel: 01268 532253. For further details visit www.barleylands.co.uk

Pumpkin Hunt & Fun Day at Blake House

Halloween comes to Blake House Craft Centre, complete with it’s own Pumpkin Hunt on 30th & 31st October. Children are invited to join in for two special days of spooktacular fun over half term for the second year running. In addition to a pumpkin hunt around the craft centre shops, there will also be face painting, spooky storytelling and biscuit decorating. Make sure you join them in the Halloween crafty tent to get creative! With competitions and prizes to be given out, see if you can scare them into parting with one! The wide variety of shops will all be joining in with their own decorations and activities too, including a special Halloween menu in Timbers Restaurant. So, take the kids and join in the excitement from 11am to 5pm for two great days of scary fun! Blake House Craft Centre, Blake End, Nr Braintree, Essex, CM77 6RA. Tel: 01376 344123 www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk

Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre and Nature Reserve

Autumn is one of the most fun times to visit, with some fantastic Halloween themed events in store. Join one of their popular Potions Class and cook up some amazing brews on 28th, 29th or 30th October, or try your hand at some creative pumpkin carving on 27th. On Halloween itself they have a brand new Halloween by Firelight, with bat walk, trick or treat campfire and witchy broom making. Their Halloween events are not too scary and suitable for all ages, (children must be accompanied.) Booking Essential For more information visit www.essexwt.org.uk or www.facebook.com/EWTFingringhoe

34 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

The Epping Ongar Railway is a lovely and friendly place to take the children. Whatever day you visit the railway will offer the chance to experience how train travel might have been 50 years ago with a relaxing backdrop of the Essex countryside. However, in addition to its main running days on weekends, the volunteers at the EOR really go to town with its full-sized Ghost Train for Halloween and follows this in December with its Santa Specials. These have been sell-out successes so you are urged to get your tickets early! On both the Ghost Train and Santa Specials, the Railway runs buses direct from Epping Underground Station – but remember that these are heritage buses meaning this is very much part of your day out. On its standard running weekends (until 1 November 2015) there are buses from Shenfield Station and Epping Station. In addition there is good parking available at Ongar a short walk from the station as well as at Epping Underground Station. visit: www.eorailway.co.uk for more information.

SPOOKY SPECIAL FEATURE

Teeny Halloweeny

Fancy dress, face paint, pumpkins and lots of treats. Halloween is simply gore-some for kids in Essex! Your little monsters will have a frightfully good time at these freaky, but family-friendly, events. Climb aboard the Southend Pier Ghost Train (24 Oct, 31 Oct & 7 Nov) and enjoy spooky stories acted out at the end of the Pier. Plus there’s face painting, fireworks, Halloween-themed refreshments and more. Halloween gets horribly exciting over at the Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey, with a gruesome series of experiments in Dr Gore’s Mad Lab (24 Oct – 1 Nov). Transform yourself into a witch, monster or other spooky character by making masks and hats before getting messy, creating ooey-gooey monster slime and freaky monster skin. Then discover grimly fiendish stuff in the nerve-jangling feely boxes. If you are feeling really brave the Gunpowder Mills also needs ghost busters to clear the Tower of Doom of monsters and ghouls. There are thrills and chills down on the farm at Barleylands, Billericay (30-31 Oct). As the doors of the Boo Barn creak open, dare you walk the Spooky Walk, join in gruesome games or take the toddler ghost train?! For gentler souls there are fairground rides, trick or treat around the Craft Village and more. The Nutty Professor’s Halloween Disaster Trail (31 Oct) at High Woods Country Park in Colchester will take you on a nocturnal escapade to find escaped zombies and the secret formula to save the world! Recover your composure with hot soup and a roll at the Visitor Centre when you finish. In the wonderfully atmospheric Saffron Walden Museum, there’s a performance of Oscar Wilde’s much-loved ‘The Canterville Ghost’ story (29 Oct). Ideal for children aged 5+ and their families, don’t forget to dress up and bring a torch to explore the museum afterwards! For more information about these and other Halloween events, click on www.visitessex.com/events

Poplar Miniature Railway

Now in its second year of operations the Poplar Miniature Railway at Poplar Nurseries in Marks Tey has proved to be a smash hit with parents and kids alike. Designed from the outset to appeal to parents with young children, real coal powered steam engines pull trains through the delightful landscaped gardens, past such endearingly named features as Orchard Curve, Folly Bank and Cottage Crossing. The children love to look out for the animals along the route, including the giraffe, crocodile, bear and cow, although new animals regularly turn up to see the train pass by. Whilst the little ones enjoy the railway and play area, parents can relax and enjoy the justifiably popular Thyme Out restaurant and other attractions at the garden centre. So far over 45,000 people have discovered the railway and for the first time since opening in 2014 the railway has all three steam engines on site, with ALICE, POPPY and YEO pulling even longer trains around the gardens. The railway is open every weekend and school holiday this year whilst the Nursery holds regular children’s activities. The big news this Autumn is the free to enter Spooky Halloween Trail in the late October Half Term week, as well as the Halloween themed trains running at the same time. Designed to be fun rather than too scary, these are sure to prove a big hit with the younger children. Under fours travel free when accompanied by a fare paying person and discount cards are available all year round. If you are looking for somewhere new to take the tribe, and have not yet met Poppy, Yeo or Alice, come along to Poplar and find out what all the fuss is about. For more details see their website www.poplarrailway.co.uk or follow them on facebook

www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 35

BISHOPS STORTFORD 18th - 27th Sept Peter Pan

The classic tale of the boy who refuses to grow up, and the magical world of Neverland. Various times. £15 – £17. Rhodes Theatre 0279 710200

1st Nov

Aladdin At Civic Theatre

Wednesday 2 December – Sunday 3 January Aladdin, the magical family pantomime, flies into Chelmsford Civic Theatre in association with One From The Heart from Wednesday 2 December 2015 – Sunday 3 January 2016. Audiences are invited to join in an adventure of a lifetime with the traditional family pantomime. All the stops have been pulled out to take the people of Essex on a thrilling, mystical, magical carpet ride to lands far away in an adventure the whole family can enjoy. The public will be able to meet the incredible Genie; the larger than life Widow Twankey, and sons: the brave Aladdin and hapless Wishee Washee, and play a part in helping Aladdin steal the heart of the beautiful princess whilst fending off the evil Abanazer. The people of Essex will not want to miss out on their chance to see this timeless, classic pantomime with outstanding singalong songs, glitzy costumes, hilarious jokes and amazing dance routines - all that audiences have come to expect from pantomimes at Chelmsford Civic Theatre. Tickets: £21.00 Concessions: £18.00 Family: £68.00 (cannot be used in conjunction with group rate) Under 2 Years: Free Groups over 10: £18.00 plus 1 in 10 free Schools: £11.00 plus 1 in 10 free Sun 6 Dec at 6pm – All seats £15.00 A £1.50 transaction fee is applicable per booking, except for cash and debit card payments made in person or by telephone. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/aladdin

The Snow Queen

Ballet Theatre UK perform their retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairy-tale ballet. 2pm/6pm. Various prices. Rodes Theatre 01279 710200

4th Nov

Ministry of Science Live

WARNING! WARNING! 100% Educational. 200% Entertaining. 300% xplosive. 400% Fun.1.15pm/7pm. Various prices. Rhodes Theatre 01279 710200

7th Nov

Snow Play

What would you do if one year Winter decided to stay and moved into yourhouse? Well that’s what happens in this snowy spectacular show. Age: 3yrs+. 1pm. Various prices. Rhodes Theatre 01279 710200

22nd Nov

I believe in Unicorns

This intimate show is set in a library full of books that hold more than stories within their pages. Audience members are invited to bring along a favourite book to form part of the set. 2pm. Various prices. Rhodes Theatre 01279 710200

BRAINTREE 1st Nov

Marty MacDonald’s Farm

Help Marty, Pongo the Pig, Molly-Moo the Cow and Sheena the Sheep as they work together to find a way to rescue the corn and save their farm. Age: 3-7yrs. 2pm. £8.50/£6.50. Arts Theatre 01376 556 354

BURY ST EDMUNDS 25th Oct

The Hollywood Special Effects Show

An interactive and explosive family show that goes behind the scenes of your favourite films to discover the secrets of creating movie magic. 6pm. Civic Theatre 01245 606505

20th – 24th Oct

Horrible Histories

Meet the Groovy Greeks and Incredible Invaders. Age: 5yrs+. Various times/ prices. Civic Theatre 01245 606505

27th & 28th Oct Dinosaur Zoo

Introducing the Tyrannosaurus Rex… dare to get up close and personal! Age: 3yrs+. Various times/prices. Civic Theatre 01245 606505

CLACTON 26th Sept

Variety Show

Singing, live music, dancing and magic. Suitable for all the family. Under 16s free with paying adult. 7.30pm. West Cliff Theatre 01255 433344

2nd Oct

Coppelia

Vienna Festival Ballet return. 7.30pm. Various prices. Princes Theatre 01255 686633

Marty MacDonald’s Farm

24th Oct

16th – 18th Nov

As the preparations for Milkshake Monkey’s surprise birthday party get underway, all the guests are busy with their very special party jobs! 1pm/3.30pm. West Cliff Theatre 01255 433344

Help Marty, Pongo the Pig, Molly-Moo the Cow and Sheena the Sheep as they work together to find a way to rescue the corn and save their farm. Age: 2-7yrs. 1pm/3.30pm. Various prices. Theatre Royal 01284 769505

The Snow Queen

Ballet Theatre UK perform their retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairytale ballet. Various times/ prices. Theatre Royal 01284 769505

CHELMSFORD 25th & 26th Sept

How the Koala Learnt to Hug

Koalas are the cuddliest critters but just how did they learn to hug? Age: 3yrs+. Various times/prices. Cramphorn Theatre 01245 606505

10th Oct

Cinderella

Presented by Ballet Cymru. 2.30pm/7pm. Civic Theatre 01245 606505

36 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

11th Oct

Milkshake

31st Oct

Peter Pan

A musical adaptation of the timeless story about the boy who never grows up. 2.30pm. Princes Theatre 01255 686633

1st Nov

Jurassic Adventures

Be transported to a prehistoric place, be amazed by the birth of a baby dinosaur, but beware of the T. REX mother who wants her egg back! Age: 3yrs+. 1.30pm. Various prices. West Cliff Theatre 01255 433344

PANTO FEATURE HARLOW 2nd – 4th Oct

The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe

A musical adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s classic children’s story. Various times/ prices. Playhouse 01279 431945

13th & 14th Oct

What to Do When You Find a Dinosaur

In 1824 an eccentric scientist discovered a bone from a creature that had never been seen before. Are you ready to join him at the start of his dinosaur story? Age: 4yrs+. Various times. £10. Playhouse 01279 431945

10th & 11th Nov Dinosaur Zoo

A tyrannosauric treat for all the family! Various times/prices. Princes Theatre 01255 686633

COLCHESTER 26th Sept Glow

Step into a magical world inspired by Japanese Haiku poetry, with glowing globes, a dancer in the sky and live music. Age 3mths- 4yrs: 10am/12pm/2pm. £4.95. Arts Centre 01206 500900

10th Oct Sing!

Singer and songwriter Nick Cope sings about monkeys, bears, socks and mud. Age: 0-8yrs. 2pm. £4.95. Arts Centre 01206 500900

24th Oct

Tour de France

When Billie and JoJo’s bicycles crash, they can no longer explore France. When they discover Albert the crazy inventor’s magical workshop, they create imaginary adventures. Age: 4-7yrs. Workshop: 11.30am; Show: 2pm. Workshop and Show: £8. Arts Centre 01206 500900

27th – 31st Oct

Not Now, Bernard & Other Monster Stories

David McKee’s much-loved Not Now, Bernard is joined by two of his other funny (and not too scary) monster stories. Age: 3-8yrs. 11am & 2pm. £8.50 adult / £6.50 child. Mercury Theatre 01206 573948

7th Nov

Mr Tiger Goes Wild

Join Mr Tiger on a musical adventure full of fun and laughter as he journeys from the city to the jungle. Age: 3yrs+. 11am/2pm. £4.95. Arts Centre 01206 500900

21st Nov

Old Mother Hubbard

A dotty old woman goes on a nursery rhyme journey as she clatters about in her kitchen with her dancing dog. Age: 3-7yrs. 2pm. £4.95. Arts Centre 01206 500900

18th Oct Pss Pss

A performance by the award-winning Baccalà Clown, using a unique blend of skills. 3pm. £13.50. Playhouse, 01279 431945

22nd Oct

The Nutcracker

The Russian State Ballet returns with a new production. 7.30pm. £32.50. Playhouse 01279 431945

5th Nov

The Hollywood Special Effects Show

An interactive and explosive family show that goes behind the scenes of your favourite films to discover the secrets of creating movie magic. 7.30pm. £16.50. Playhouse 01279 431945

IPSWICH

Mercury Theatre

Saturday 28th November 2015 - Sunday 10th January 2016 Hop on your magic carpet and join them at the Mercury Theatre for the adventure of a lifetime this Christmas! Panto favourites Ignatius Anthony, Laura Curnick, Tim Freeman, Sarah Moss, Simon Pontin and Dale Superville are back, along with some new faces. Come with them to Old Peking where Aladdin dreams of marrying the beautiful Princess Jasmine and providing a better life for his mother, Widow Twanky, and brother, Wishee Washee. With the promise of an inheritance to make him as rich as a prince, the wicked magician Abanazer has tricked Aladdin into helping him find a magic lamp hidden in a secret cavern high in the hills. Aladdin soon finds himself trapped with only a battered old lamp for company. It’s only when he rubs the scruffy lamp that his adventure really begins! Will Widow Twanky find romance? Will Wishee Washee prove his worth? Will Aladdin finally marry Princess Jasmine? All will be revealed at the Mercury Theatre! Directed by Daniel Buckroyd (director of Cinderella and Artistic Director of the Mercury Theatre), Aladdin will have an extra week of performances compared to previous years and will run from Saturday 28 November until Sunday 10 January. The Mercury Theatre off-peak friends and family deal makes a visit to the panto more affordable – book six seats or more on an off-peak show, in the top-price (green) area and get £3 off per ticket. To claim please use the promotion code WISHEE when booking. So prepare to boo, hiss, cheer and sing! Are you ready? “We can’t hear you…!” To book tickets visit www.mercurytheatre.co.uk or call 01206 573948.

19th Sept

The Party!

A brand new circus show for all the family. 11am/2pm. New Wolsey Studio. 01473 295900

26th Sept

Me and My Cat?

Based on the book by award winning Japanese children’s author and illustrator, Satoshi Kitamura. 11am/2pm. New Wolsey Studio. 01473 295900

3rd Oct

Jo and Billie’s Tour de France

For little and big ones. Don’t forget to wear a beret... 11am/2pm. New Wolsey Studio. 01473 295900

26th & 27th Oct Circus Oddity

A triple bill of extraordinary circus entertainment for all ages. Various times/prices. New Wolsey Studio. 01473 295900

27th – 31st Oct

Through The Looking Glass

Alice goes through the looking glass into another world whose eccentric inhabitants seem to be either chesspieces or characters from nursery rhymes. 7.45pm. New Wolsey Studio. 01473 295900

28th Oct

Comedy Club 4 Kids

Cracking entertainment for everyone over 6 years old. 3.30pm. New Wolsey Studio. 01473 295900

More listings on page 38 www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 37

PANTO FEATURE

There’s lots going on at Princes Theatre

Aladdin – 12th December to 3rd January 2016 Boy band favourite Scott Robinson is to take the leading role in this year’s pantomime Aladdin. Scott, who has been a member of Five since it formed in 1997, will take his place alongside top performers from London’s West End. Join them on a thrilling carpet ride and an adventure of a lifetime this Christmas. There are excellent discounts for schools, family tickets and party bookings. Peter Pan the Musical – Sat 31st October A spectacular musical adaptation of the timeless tale about the boy who never grows up. Let your imagination take you to Neverland with Peter and Wendy meeting Lost Boys, Indians and the villainous Captain Hook - not forgetting his silly sidekick Smee! Why not add to the fun and dress as your favourite character? There will be a special prize for the best dressed and everyone will have the chance to meet the cast after the show. With enchanting songs, plenty of fun and laughter and a sprinkling of fairy dust, this is the perfect way to make literature come alive. Dinosaur Zoo – 10th & 11th November Dare to get up close and personal! Now introducing the Tyrannosaurus Rex to the stage, Dinosaur Zoo brings these awesome prehistoric creatures to life as you’ve never seen them before. From cute baby dinos to teeth-gnashing giants, marvel and interact with extraordinary life-like dinosaurs in this imaginative and hilarious live show. But watch out. Not all of these ravenous reptiles are as tame as they seem… Direct from the West End, Dinosaur Zoo is fast becoming a world-wide phenomenon, offering guaranteed fun for all the family. Book now for this truly dinosaursome live show. To book tickets or for more information call the box office on 01255 686633 or go online at www.essex-live.co.uk

30th & 31st Oct Shhh!

An exciting and explosive new dance show for all the family. Various times/ prices. New Wolsey Studio. 01473 295900

2nd – 4th Nov

The Silver Sword

A musical adaptation of the classic children’s book. 7.45pm. Various prices. New Wolsey Studio. 01473 295900

22nd Nov

Basil Brush

Britain’s most loveable fox is back on the road along with his TV chum Mr Stephen. 1.30pm. £15/£13. Regent Theatre 01473 433100

LONDON 3rd Nov – 24th Dec

Baddies: The Musical

Step into the real lives of fairytales’ most villainous characters in this entertaining new musical with live music onstage. Age: 6yrs+. Various times/prices. Unicorn Theatre 020 7645 0560

18th Nov – 3rd Jan The Snow Child

A man and wife long for a child of their own. So one cold, white winter’s day, they sculpt a daughter out of snow and something magical and extraordinary happens. Age: 3yrs+. Various times/prices. Unicorn Theatre 020 7645 0560

Pantomimes

BURY ST EDMUNDS

HARLOW

27th Nov – 10th Jan

6th Dec – 3rd Jan

Jack and the Beanstalk

The story of Jack, a handful of beans, a cow and a giant will be full of magic, music and fun. Theatre Royal 01284 769505

CHELMSFORD 2nd Dec – 3rd Jan Aladdin

Meet Widow Twankey and the brave Aladdin and hapless Wishee Washee. Help Aladdin steal the heart of a beautiful princess. Various times/ prices. Civic Theatre. 01245 606505

CLACTON 12th Dec – 3rd Jan Aladdin

This year’s production promises dazzling costumes, fabulous scenery and some magical surprises. Various times/prices. Princes Theatre. 01255 686633

COLCHESTER 28th Nov – 10th Jan Aladdin

Go on the adventure of a lifetime where Aladdin dreams of marrying Princess Jasmine and providing a better life for his mother, Widow Twanky, and brother, Wishee Washee. Age: 3yrs+. Various times/prices. Mercury Theatre 01206 573948

38 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Find more listings online at www.kidaround.biz

Snow White and the Seven Dwarves

Snow White escapes the clutches of the Queen to discover seven extraordinary individuals, and make some very special friends along the way. Various times/prices. The Playhouse. 01279 431945

IPSWICH 26th Nov – 30th Jan

The Sword in the Stone

A brand new Rock And Roll panto. Various times/prices. The New Wolsey Theatre. 01473 295900

19th – 30th Dec Aladdin

Take a magical carpet ride to the Far East in a fun-packed family pantomime. Various times/prices. Regent Theatre 01473 433100

SUDBURY 18th Dec – 3rd Jan The Snow Queen

A panto of snow and magic. Various times. Adult: £10; Under 14s: £8. Quay Theatre. 01787 374745

Let’s Party! ACTIVITY PARTIES

Animal Workshops Exotic and pet

animal encounters for parties, schools, activity workshops, sensory sessions and more! Call 07790 465266 every day! www.animalworkshops.co.uk

Drama Parties - Theatricool Great

value, unforgettable birthday parties, in Theatricool studio or at venue of your choice. Call Sally on 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk

Essex Wildlife Trust Abberton Reservoir Themed parties exploring

the nature reserve, including fairy, detective and bug-hunting parties. 01206 738172 alic@essexwt.org.uk

Essex Wildlife Trust Fingringhoe Wick Go wild with a party at

Fingringhoe Wick nature reserve! Loads of themes including bushcraft, explorers, pirates, dinosaurs and more. Call 01206 729 678 or email hannahe@essexwt.org.uk

Laser Mayhem Play real ‘Call of Duty’ missions based around the computer game. Hide behind real Russian battle tanks, planes and helicopters using Laser Tag equipment. 01708 688517 www.laser-mayhem.co.uk Little Kingfishers Play Centre

Affordable party packages for children up to 10 years. 4-tiered play frame. Enjoy a leisure pool party with waves, slides and inflatables. Kingfisher Leisure Centre. 01787 375656 www.ssleisure.co.uk

Little Scrummers Rugby Exciting tag

rugby themed parties for 2-9yr olds with games, prizes and much more! 07738 591232 www.littlescrummers.com

SD Martial Arts Energetic fun for boys and girls. Gladiator ring, sumo suits, padded swords & shields. Free class for each guest. 01206 860008 www.sd-martialarts.co.uk

SoundMagic Studios For details

of recording parties, contact Steve or Victoria on 01376 501313 www.recordingparties.co.uk

Space Kingdom “For fun that’s out of this world!” The perfect indoor play centre for every party & celebration. Age 0-12. 01255 435408 www.spacekingdom.co.uk fun@spacekingdom.co.uk

PARTY PLACES

Audley End Miniature Railway

Now offer children’s parties! Packages including catering available. 01799 542134 www.audley-end-railway.co.uk

Best Western Ivy Hill Fun-filled

children’s parties. Room hire starts from £150. Tasty and fun menus. Suitable for children up to 12 years old. Call 01277 355111 for details.

PARTY SUPPLIES

Pirates & Princesses A 500 year old

Aladdin’s cave on North Hill, Colchester, housing a wide range of traditional toys, gifts, partyware, sweetcones and balloons. 01206 764115 www.piratesandprincesses.co.uk

CREATIVE PARTIES

Children’s Chocolate Parties

School visits and workshops for all ages. Contact Sarah Knights 07787 506846, sarah@chappelchocolatehouse.co.uk www.chappelchocolatehouse.co.uk

View more online www.kidaround.biz

www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 39

Keep the kids fit and healthy with some great clubs/activities. Don’t forget to say you found it here! Stagecoach (Braintree) Performing arts classes for 4-18 year olds. Saturdays 10am -1 pm, 6- 18 years, 10-15am11.45am, 4-6 years. Notley High School Braintree. www.stagecoach.co.uk/ braintree. Call Julie Berridge (Principal) 01376 743788 Stagecoach (Colchester) Performing arts classes for 4-18 year olds, on Saturdays at the Sixth Form College. Call Caroline Maxwell 0845 603 0880

Stagecoach (Saffron Walden)

Performing arts classes for 4-18 year olds. For full information please call Laura on 01799 588246.

DANCE

Carol Gale School Of Dance provides disco freestyle, street, slow lyrical & rock and roll dance classes for tots, children, teens.Colchester, Tiptree & Braintree. 07739488599 or carolgale@ email.com, www.pcdance.co.uk

Jazz/Modern Dance Ages 6-12 on

Mondays (4.50pm-5.50pm) and ages 3-5 on Tuesdays (4pm-4.45pm) at Leisure World Colchester. 01206 282000

The Company Performing Arts

Ballet, tap, modern, jazz & street classes for girls and boys of all ages and abilities. Classes in Colchester and Clacton. Examination and performance opportunities. 01206 241845

Ballet The Company Performing Arts

Ballet and dance classes for girls and boys from age 2 upwards. Classes in Colchester and Clacton. ISTD & RAD examinations and shows. 01206 241845

Theatricool primary ballet

Introduction to ballet for ages 5-7. Church Hall, Bear Street, Nayland. Mondays 4.30 - 5.15pm. www. theatricool.co.uk

Disco/Freestyle/Street Mini Street Dance A funky, fun

and energetic class with crazy dance moves for children aged 3-7 years. Wednesdays 4pm-4.45pm. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000

Street Dance Age 8+ If you are

looking for the urban experience then look no further! Wednesdays 5pm-6pm. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000

DRAMA/PERFORMING ARTS

Braintree Theatretrain Saturday 10am-1pm at Tabor High School. Theatretrain the company that loves to perform. Performing arts training for 6-18 year olds. Please call 01787 473150 or email braintree@theatretrain.co.uk. website www.theatretrain.co.uk Colchester Theatretrain Sat 10am-

1pm at The Oak Tree Centre, Harwich Road. Theatretrain the company that loves to perform. Performing arts training for 6-18 year olds. Please call 01787 473150 or email colchster@theatretrain.co.uk. website www.theatretrain.co.uk

In association with Theatre Fun Academy, The Suzie Lowe Agency

offers representation for children working professionally in theatre, film, TV & Radio. www.suzieloweagency.co.uk

Eureka Try a lively session of music and

fun at a Eureka class for children under 5. Classes in Colchester on Wednesdays, £4 per week. Call Lisa on 01206 870150 or email lili@india.com

Kids Acting and Theatre Skills (KATS) Age 11-18. Established

performing theatre group. Saturday mornings, Headgate Theatre, Colchester. Sarah Young 01206 851796 or 07939 401640

Kids Acting and Theatre Skills (KATS) Monday evenings, 5-11yrs.

4.30pm-6pm. Myland Parish Halls, Mile End, Colchester. Saturday mornings, 6-12yrs. 9.30am-11am Headgate Theatre, Colchester. Sarah Young 01206 851796 or 07939 401640

NEW! Theatricool Saturday Drama Club Act, sing, dance and perform! Ages 5-10. Saturday mornings, 9.15 11.15am. Littlegarth School, Nayland. 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk

40 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Stagecoach (Sudbury) Performing

arts classes for 4-18 year olds. Thomas Gainsborough School, Gt Cornard. For full information please call Katie on 01473 601078

The Company Performing Arts

Drama, singing and dance classes on Saturdays in Clacton. NO termly commitment, just professional training and numerous performance opportunities. 01255 427376 www.thecompanyperformingarts.com Theatre Fun Academy provides performance training in Colchester for 4- 18yr olds. theatrefun@hotmail.co.uk or 07715324267 visit www.theatrefun.co.uk

Theatricool After School Drama Club Drama classes to enhance and

nurture inherent talent. Fun-based activities for ages 7-11. Nayland: Mondays 3.30 – 4.30pm, Colchester: Wednesdays 4.00 – 5.30pm. www.theatricool.co.uk

Theatricool Performing Arts School Learn to act, sing, dance and

perform! Ages 4-16. Saturday mornings. Colchester Institute. 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk

GYMNASTICS

Colchester School of Gymnastics –

Pre-School weekdays : Baby gym (Under 2) 9:30-10:30am. Gym Fun (2-5 yrs) 9:00-11:00am. Gym Jam (up to 5 yrs ) Tues 10:45-11:15am. Afternoon Fun Wed 1:30 – 2:30 Free play, structure & music. 01206 844188

Gymnastics Free 1 hour gymnastics

trial for all age groups and abilities.Wed 5:30pm/6:30pm & Sat 9:00am/11:00am Gym Tots, birthday parties & holiday courses. Booking is essential. Email buba@eppingforestgymclub.com, 07767 167512 or visit www.eppingforestgymclub.com

Iceni Gymnastics Club Saturday 10.00-10.45am Recreational (No age limit) Saturday 10.30-12.00 noon and Monday 6.00-7.30 pm Contact Annette 07773 891 563 Unit 1B, Moss Road, Stanway, Colchester, Essex CO3 0LE School Age Gymnastic & Trampoline Weekdays from 4pm,

all day Saturday & Sunday mornings. Colchester School of Gymnastics 01206 844188 info@ colchestergymnastics.com www.colchestergymnastics.com

LASER/PAINTBALL Laser Mayhem Play real Call of Duty

missions based around the computer game. Hide behind real Russian battle tanks, planes & helicopters using Laser Tag equipment. 01708 688517 www.laser-mayhem.co.uk

NETBALL

KATS Netball Club Netball at

HIghwoods for primary school girls every Saturday at 9.15am, senior girls every Wednesday at 6:30pm. Call Kim on 07788 887923

PLAY

Little Kingfishers Soft Play – climb, slide, run & explore the 4-tiered frame including ball pools and baby area. Parties available. Mon – Thur 10-17:30 Fri 10-18:30 weekends 10-16:00 www.ssleisure.co.uk 01787 375656

Space Kingdom for fun that’s out

of this world! Amazing climbing fun, football pitch, go-karts, parties and Moon Rock Cafe. Aged 0-12. 0845 521 2809 fun@spacekingdom.co.uk www.spacekingdom.co.uk

RUGBY

Little Scrummers Rugby Exciting non-contact rugby classes for 2-6 year olds. Classes in Colchester, Stansted Mountfitchet and Cambridge. 07738 591232 www.littlescrummers.com

SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

Academic Booster Courses Aged 7–10 years, the courses will be divided according to subject and age to tailor the activities to the appropriate age group. Taught by well qualified and experienced teachers. courses@felsted.org or 01371 822634

GET ACTIVE

www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 41

Cheerleading Course Perfect for children interested in keeping fit, learning about new ways to exercise and making new friends, this fun course caters for children of all abilities and is split according to age group. courses@felsted.org or 01371 822634

Dance and Drama Camp offers

children the opportunity to learn a huge variety of performance technique in a fun-filled environment. Boys and girls of all levels and experience are welcome. courses@felsted.org or 01371 822634 Hockey Course This challenging course is aimed at introducing and practising various skill sets. Each session builds on the players’ knowledge and skill with the aim of introducing new techniques to matches and games as the course progresses.courses@felsted.org or 01371 822634

Kids Camp Every school holiday. All-day, fully-supervised activity session for children in school years 1-6. Lunch included. 9am-3pm from £21.50 or 8am-5.30pm from £26.50. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000

Multi-Activity Camp A range of different sports and activities, which often includes swimming, tennis, basketball, drama, creative arts, music, science, ICT, cookery and more! Perfect for busy and working parents. courses@felsted.org or 01371 822634

Scottish Highland Dance

For fun or to take part in exams, competitions or shows. Contact Sharon Radcliffe on 07732 580309 or email: sharon.radcliffe@googlemail.com Squash Course This three day squash course provides a unique chance for new and improving players from ages 9 to 13 to acquire and develop skill. Suitable for children who have never played before. courses@felsted.org or 01371 822634

Sudbury Sports Centre - Holiday

day camps, gymnastics, trampolining, roller skating, birthday parties and many sports Weekdays 17:00-22:00, Weekends 9am-5pm www.ssleisure.co.uk 01787 373132

Swimming Courses The perfect

opportunity for children to receive quality coaching in small groups, by qualified and experienced teachers. Highly intensive courses that focus on building confidence. courses@felsted.org or 01371 822634

Willow Tree Holiday Club Let your

kids enjoy a fun club during the school holidays. For more information call 01255 221473 www.willowtreechildrenscentre.co.uk

SWIMMING

Kingfisher Leisure Centre Swimming

Advertising in KidAround works. To find out how you can reach over

121,000

interested readers, call Anna/Kate on 01371 238 071 to find out more.

42 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

wet ‘n’ wild Saturdays 12-4pm/School holidays Mon-Fri 2-4pm. Swimming Lessons. Times & prices at www.ssleisure.co.uk 01787 375656

Small group swimming lessons

Water-based teachers. All ages and abilities, only one lesson in the pool. At Colchester, Ramsey (Nr Harwich) and Tolleshunt Major. info@swim2swim.com 01206 212 603 www.swim2swim.com

GET ACTIVE

www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 43

Theatricool Tinycool Dance and Drama Introduction to drama and

movement for children aged 2-4 yrs. Wednesdays 10am -11.05am. Theatricool Studio, Colchester. www.theatricool.co.uk PRE/POST-NATAL EXERCISE

Aqua Bump Works on gentle fitness

and gentle toning. Wednesday 8pm8.40pm. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000 READING

Bookstart

BABY GYM

Colchester School of Gymnastics

Baby gym (Up to 2 yrs) Mon-Fri 9:3010:30am. Gym Fun (2-5 yrs) Mon-Fri 9:00-11:00am. Gym Jam music & action(up to 5 yrs ) Tues 10:45-11:15am. Junior Gym (3½ yrs-5yr) Various times. Afternoon Fun Wed 1:30-2:30 free play, structure & music CLOTHING

JoJo Maman Bébé boutiques are

perfect for adorable baby and children’s clothes, stylish maternity wear and an extensive range of baby products, toys and gifts. Quote KID52 for 10% discount at www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk HELP AND SUPPORT

Barnardos Children’s Centres

Offer baby groups in Colchester for friendship, support and fun as your baby grows and develops. For details call 01206 861950

Colchester and District NCT

If you need pre/post-natal support, from feeding advice to homebirth information, contact the national helpline on 0300 330 0700. For local activities call 0844 243 6093 or visit www.nct.org.uk/ Colchester

Parenting Support Workshops

and parenting courses from Extra Support for Families for parents of under fives. Contact 01255 475001 extrasupportforfamilies@btconnect.com www.extrasupportforfamilies.co.uk MULTIPLE BIRTHS

Twins and Multiple Birth Club

For families with twins or multiple births and their siblings aged 0-5 years. Mon 10am-12 noon. Willow Tree Nursery and Children’s Centre. Call 01255 221473 01245 224790 / 07789 742412 MUSIC & MOVEMENT

The Company Performing Arts

A fun introduction to dance, drama and song in specially-designed tots and pre-syllabus classes. Fully-qualified staff encourage children’s co-ordination, confidence, fitness and discipline. From 2 years upwards. 01206 241845

Eureka Enjoy gentle musical games

together, then relax while your baby explores their sensory treasure baskets. Classes in Colchester on Wednesdays, from only £2 per week. Call Lisa on 01206 870150 or email lili@india.com PLAY

Friday Fives Stories and nursery

rhymes for fives and under. , £3 per child. Chelmsford Museum. Phone 01245 605700 for details

Well Being FITNESS

RAISING SELF-ESTEEM

Boxercise

Building Confidence Course

Great for weight loss, coordination, balance and toning up - in fun classes. SD Martial Arts 01206 860008

Kingfisher Leisure Centre

Work out in the gym, enjoy a class, swim in the leisure pool and relax in the sauna and spa. A class for everyone: Zumba, Pilates, bodybalance, yoga and more. 01787 375656 www.ssleisure.co.uk

Leisure World Colchester

A comprehensive aerobic workout programme that offers over 50 classes a week.For more information 01206 282000 www.colchesterleisureworld.co.uk

Life Skills courses to help raise parents’ self esteem. Contact Extra Support for Families 01255 475001 extrasupportforfamilies@btconnect.com www.extrasupportforfamilies.co.uk

WORK OPPORTUNITIES Forever Living Natural Aloe Vera Products. Weight management, beauty, wellness, health, fitness. Are you looking for more income and flexible work around your children? Call for info Claire Kettle, Forever Living Independent Distributor 07746 044366.

HALL FOR HIRE

Theatricool Performing Arts

Studio for hire for rehearsal space; children’s parties; vintage and corporate events. Belle Vue Rd, Colchester, CO1 1 AX. 07736 713909 enquiries@theatricool.co.uk

44 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Little Kingfishers Play Centre Play, activities & parties for children up to 10 years. Open 7 days a week. 01787 375656 www.littlekingfishers.co.uk Space Kingdom For fun that’s out of

this world! Amazing baby & toddler play area, parties & daily activities. The perfect place to meet new friends. Visits from Jo Jingles.0845 521 2809 www.spacekingdom.co.uk fun@spacekingdom.co.uk PRESCHOOL CLASSES

diddi dance funky pre-school dance classes for boys and girls.

Learn co-ordination, rhythm and great moves to funky pop songs and boost confidence. Call Charlotte 07722 605 395 charlotte.foxley@diddidance.com. Friday‘s Heybridge Basin at 10am.

Tinycool Tots Dance and Drama Fun classes for children aged 2-4 yrs.

Mondays 2.10 – 3.15pm. Church Hall, Bear St, Nayland. 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk

Sing some rhymes and look at books, and meet other babies and their grown-ups at your local library. www.essex.gov.uk/libraries RUGBY

Little Scrummers Rugby

Exciting tag rugby for 2-6 year olds. Essex & Cambridgeshire. Make friends and learn new skills! 07738 591232 www.littlescrummers.com SWIMMING

Baby Swimming Lessons At

Colchester, Ramsey (Nr Harwich), Tolleshunt Major. Only one lesson in the pool; water-based teachers. 01206 212603, info@swim2swim.com, www.swim2swim.com

Learn To Swim at Kingfisher Leisure Centre & Hadleigh Pool & Leisure. The start of your child’s aquatic journey Kingfisher: 01787 375656 Hadleigh P& L: 01473 823470 www.ssleisure.co.uk Tinycool Tots dance and Tinycool Tots drama

BEAUTY, BUMP & BABY

www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 15 • North Essex • 45

ALRESFORD Orchard Cottage Montessori Nursery Ltd 120 Wivenhoe Road 01206 825607 Dr Natasha Mansfield o.c.m@btconnect.com

sT * ARDLEIGH Ardleigh Preschool

Village Hall, Station Road 07092 846384 Jenny Schofield www.ardleighpreschool.co.uk

Orchard Barns Babies Redbury Barn Colchester Road 01206 231195 Susan Moss-Thomas

Orchard Barns Private Kindergarten Badliss Hall 01206 231195 Susan Moss-Thomas

BOCKING A.G.N.E.S Day Nursery

Bocking United Reformed Church Church Street 07804 700557 Louise Blake www.agnesdaynursery.net agnesdaynursery@yahoo.co.uk

BRADFIELD Little Pumpkins Pre-school CIC The Orchards Bradfield Primary School Heath Road CO11 2UZ 01255 870768 Michelle Dent

sT*

COLCHESTER ABC Preschool Stickmere CO7 6YG 01206 322466

Sarah Simmons abcpreschool@tesco.net www.abcpreschoolstratford.co.uk

Lion Walk Preschool

Lion Walk United Reformed Church (next to Body Shop) 01206 560297 (mornings only) Jaki Bridges lionwalkpreschool@yahoo.co.uk www.lionwalkchurch.org

Oaklea Montessori CIC

Wellesley Road 01206 573389 Kate Cryne kate.cryne@colchesterhighschool.co.uk www.colchesterhighschool.co.uk

Wimpole Road Methodist Church Wimpole Road CO1 2DL 01206 657882 Caroline Allen admin@oakleamontessori.co.uk

T*ly

sT*y

Kiddi Caru

Oxford House School

CLACTON Little Pals Children’s Centre Nursery

BRAINTREE The Colourwheel Montessori Nursery Denton Crescent Black Notley 01376 339139 Miss Sam Cottrill colourwheel@btconnect.com

Clacton Coastal Academy Jaywick Lane 01255 687151 Gillian Smith

sT*yH

Willow Tree Day Nursery

Chingford Avenue 01255 221473 Brenda Dearsley www.willowtreechildrenscentre.co.uk

sT*yH

46 • Autumn 15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Colchester High School Nursery

Hythe Quay 01206 871700 colchester@kiddicaru.com www.kiddicaru.com

Day Nursery

Wivenhoe Park, CO4 3SQ 01206 873224 Miss Pippa Dines nursery@essex.ac.uk www.essex.ac.uk/nursery

2-4 Lexden Road 01206 576686 Mrs Harding info@oxfordhouseschool.net www.oxfordhouseschool.net

Saint James’ Preschool

Saint James’ Primary School Guildford Road 07765 029987 Charlotte or Geraldine. www.stjamespreschool.org.uk stjamespreschool@outlook.com

St Mary’s Kindergarten 247 London Road 01206 216420 Emma Stanhope

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CHILDCARE St Stephen’s Preschool

St Stephen’s Church Centre Canterbury Road 07534 911918/01206 519034 Katie www.ststephenspreschool.org.uk

EARLS COLNE Earls Colne Primary School and Nursery

Park Lane 01787 222205 Melanie Vine www.earlscolne.essex.sch.uk

GREAT HORKESLEY Holmwood House Nursery 151 Coach Road 01206 273827 Katy Platten/Claire Angel

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Tiddlywinks Preschool 22A Coach Road Great Horkesley CO6 4AT 01206 272669 Helen Taylor

HARLOW Kiddi Caru

IPSWICH Oakland Hall Day Nursery Oakland Hall Hadleigh Road Sproughton 0845 838 8955 info@oaklandhall.co.uk

KELVEDON Kelvedon and Feering Preschool Kelvedon St Mary’s C of E Primary School Docwra Road 07922 592183 www.kfpreschool.org

LAWFORD Busy Bees Kindergarten

Highfields School Colchester Road 01206 396291 Tina Lawrence/Maria Varnals busybeeskindergarten@gmail.com www.busybeeskindergarten.co.uk

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Little Pumpkins Pre-School CIC The Ling Hall Lawford C of E Primary School Long Road, CO11 2EF 01206 391412 Katie Turner

Oaklea Montessori CIC

Ogilvie Hall Wignall Street 07765 998919 Catherine Theodosius www.oakleamontessori.co.uk

T STRATFORD ST MARY Orchard Barns Kindergarten Higham Road 01206 323093 Shelley Ward

WIVENHOE Wivenhoe Montessori

The Pavilion King George V Playing Field 01206 827126 Joahnne Cousins www.wivenhoemontessori.co.uk

Key to Childcare Provider Icons use these symbols to discover the type of care offered by each setting

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s DAY CARE

TIPTREE ABC Day Nursery

T SESSIONAL CARE

The Brambles 22 Grove Road 01621 810772 Kirstin or Sally

y AFTER SCHOOL CLUB h CHILDMINDER

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l BREAKFAST CLUB WHITE COLNE Pippins Montessori Kindergarten White’s Farm Bures Road 01787 228567 Lynne Dear

* HOLIDAY CLUB H CRECHE

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Kiln Lane Church Langley 01279 626111 harlow@kiddicaru.com www.kiddicaru.com