Contents This Autumn 4 News & Views 8 Gifts For All
What’s On 10 Diary Dates 12 Spooky Special 15 Firework Displays 16 Panto’s
Education Matters
Welcome to
19 School Time 22 Tutors
Autumn I can’t beleive autumn is here already, and it’s time to get the winter wardrobe back down from the attic. Although, I do love the autumn season with cosy nights in, listening to the wind howl outside and getting my daughter back into a better sleep routine with the clocks going back (don’t forget to change your clocks on 26th October). This issue is packed with things to do as well as lots of great local information to help you get organised with family life. Look out for some of our new features and sections such as the Spooky Specials feature on page 12 which is full of spooktacular things to do as a family this Halloween and a new kids page (18) with fun games and ideas to keep the kids happy. We also have Christmas (sorry to mention the C word) in a few months, so check out our gifts feature on page 8 to get your presents sorted early, leaving you more time to relax. Also this October, we are proud sponsors of The Tiny Toes event on 26th October at Orsett Hall, Oakenden. KidAround will be there, so come and see us for some great prizes to be won. I hope you and your family enjoy the autumn and stay safe on the darker nights.
Contact Us
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Online Marketing: Tina Read tina.read@kidaround.biz Tel: 01371 238071
Don’t forget to say you found it in KidAround Magazine, it really does help! 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.
Family Life 24 Let’s Party 26 Get Active 26 Classified
Early Years 28 Childcare 31 Birth & Beyond
New For Autumn 18 Kidding Around
Competitions 06 iPad case 08 Essex Pass 12 Books 19 What Every Parent Needs To Know book 17 Family theatre tickets 24 Stopmotion Studio Software 25 Book Of Life cinema tickets & merchandise
News & Views Families InFocus
As the chosen charity of KidAround Magazine for the past year, Families InFocus (Essex) has been featured in each edition, enabling them to promote the wide range of services aimed at improving life chances for Essex children and young people with a special need or disability. The charity has over 4,000 families on its books and provides in-depth support to over 900 different families each year. Support is not time limited. It is available to families with children aged from newborn to 19, on any number of presenting issues throughout the child’s development. The team of highly skilled and experienced family support advisers provide an outreach service including one-to-one support, home visits, and attendance at school and other meetings. With a 27% increase in referrals of new families during the year ending March 2014, they are obviously meeting a need. Amongst the services offered is a monthly support group for siblings who have a special needs or disabled child in the family. These young carers sometimes need extra support and a chance to simply take some time out, to play and enjoy their childhood in ways that can’t be done as a family. For children aged 8 to 14 Kidzspace can be a lifeline where they can make friends with others who have a similar experience. “A very big THANK YOU to KidAround Magazine for bringing our services to readers’ attention.” Rachel Ellis, CEO, Families InFocus (Essex) The telephone advice line is open each week-day from 10am to 4pm and on term-time Monday evenings 5pm to 7.30pm on 01245 353575. If you think Families InFocus can help, please give them a call.
Help Raise Funds For Essex Air Ambulance - What is YOUR School doing for National Air Ambulance Week?
Join Essex Air Ambulance during National Air Ambulance Week from Monday 22nd to Sunday 28th September by ‘Going Yellow’ and help raise awareness and much needed funds for the County’s ‘YELLOW’ life-saving helicopter. The Charity is inviting schools to take part by doing anything to ‘Go Yellow’ during the week. You could wear a yellow item of clothing or have a non-uniform day, ask the school canteen to sell yellow cakes or put on a yellow themed quiz or party to raise funds for Essex Air Ambulance. Anything yellow goes! Could you challenge your teachers to a lemon eating competition or to sit in a bath of custard?! To register to take part in Go Yellow contact Jenny Macpherson at Essex Air Ambulance on 0345 2417 690 or email Jenny.Macpherson@EHAAT.uk.com. 4 • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
News & Views
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News & Views Lathcoats Farm
Lathcoats Farm will be opening their doors again for their annual Apple Day celebration on Saturday 18th October between 10am and 4pm. Visitors will be able to taste most of the 40 plus varieties of apple grown in the farm’s orchards and to meet some of the farmers and growers, who keep the farm shop supplied all year round with delicious produce, and taste their wares. There will be lots of family fun, competitions and refreshments and entry is free. Full details will be available on the farm’s website www.lathcoatsfarm.co.uk Nearer to Christmas the staff at Lathcoats can prepare wonderful hampers for you with your choice of delicious products from the farm shop. Beehive Lane, Galleywood, CM2 8LX 01245 353021 www.eapples.co.uk
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Gifts For All Save With Essex Pass
With the Essex Pass (www.essexpass.com) families can save money in Essex everyday! Buy a Pass for only £9.99 and enjoy hundreds of fantastic savings over a 12-month period. The Essex Pass offers 2for1* deals across Essex’s most loved attractions such as: Marsh Farm Epping Ongar Railway Old MacDonald’s Farm Action Park Barleylands Secret Nuclear Bunker Boydells Dairy Farm Audley End Miniature Railway Imperial Bird of Prey Academy and dozens of other activities and attractions Plus, you can save money at restaurants, cafés, takeaways, bars and high street stores across the county. Get a great deal on gym membership; boot camp workouts with the man who trains TOWIE stars Sam Faiers and Ferne McCann; and even car repairs. Save up to 60%. With the Essex Pass there’s no need to wait for a particular deal – the pass is delivered straight to your door for 12 months of hassle-free savings! Simple to use, just enter your postcode into the “area search” and let Essex Pass do the planning for you. Most offers are valid seven days a week, so you can save even on weekends and in school holidays. It’s easy to make your money back in just one day. Buy two passes as a family of four for half price days out. Or give a friend this unique gift which will keep on giving. Find Essex Pass on Facebook or Twitter for their latest deals and competitions. New deals are being added regularly. *Some businesses require you to book ahead. Always check the T&Cs.
**WIN** To be in with a chance of winning 1 of 5 free Essex Passes in great time for the October half-term, please email your name, address and contact details to: competitions@essexpass.com by the 10th October
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The Glazed Look
After 10 years at The Waterhouse Business Centre, near Homebase, The Glazed Look have found a new home on The Beehive Business Centre, Beehive Lane; Great Baddow side of Chelmsford. They can be found in a brand new unit behind Onestop Schoolgear & Kazen Kai Martial Arts Centre. They are also switching to a full booking system. To book phone 01245 290 300 or enquire online. A pottery painting studio and the ideal place for those “Perfect Presents”. Do you struggle to think of ideas for those people that seem to have everything? The Glazed Look stock an array of pottery and loads of ideas for the perfect present for any occasion Why not try their pottery painting parties? Available for any occasion; adults and children. The party package includes a choice of pottery from a selection of ranges, paints, glazing, firing and a party plate for the party host fingerprinted by all their guests. 2 hour session. Min. 10 painters; max. 50. From £12.50 per painter. Bring your own party food or order pizza. Large groups qualify for exclusive use outside normal opening times (can coincide with normal meeting times for Brownies, WI etc). Regular evenings for adults and teens to paint run from 7pm to 10pm; generally one Friday per month. Fantastic coffee, free parking, baby facilities & disabled access also available. Open 7 days a week. For more information call 01245 290300 or visit www.theglazedlook.co.uk
Gifts For All Fun and Activities at Meadows Shopping Centre Snapper Jaxx Kids Club Go along and enjoy the fun at Meadows Shopping Centres’ FREE monthly Snapper Jaxx Kid’s Club. The clubs take place on the first Sunday of every month this year (except December due to Christmas activities) and run from 11am - 3pm within the shopping centre, located on the mall outside BHS. Led by themed characters, children can enjoy some adventure with performances and craft workshops, perfect to entertain them on a Sunday. Each monthly club will take on a different theme that will help the children engage and look forward to their next visit. Snapper Jaxx dates and times for the rest of this year include: Sunday 7th September – Splash! An Underwater Adventure Sunday 5th October – Spooky Stories Sunday 2nd November – All Aboard! The kids club also offers an exclusive loyalty card for families and children attending. Pick up your loyalty card to receive stamps on each visit; once four stamps have been collected you will be rewarded with a goody bag full of treats that definitely shouldn’t be missed! To support the monthly clubs, retailers at the Meadows are also offering exclusive discounts and offers on event days, for all children and parents to take advantage of. Please visit the Meadows website for more information and listings of the offers at www.themeadows.co.uk Community Art Project The Meadows are inviting shoppers to join them and support their Community Art Trail in the shopping centre from 6th October - they need your help finding their local super star artist! The Community Art Trail at Meadows Shopping Centre is a fantastic way to showcase unique and creative artwork created by local children from a number of different schools and nurseries across the local area. A range of children’s artwork focusing on eco-friendly/green themes or made from eco or sustainable materials will be displayed throughout the centre as part of an Art Trail in October. They’re asking shoppers to pick the best final piece of art that deserves to win a selection of prizes worth £250! Find out more at www.themeadows.co.uk. Wishmas Tree This year as part of the Christmas festivities at Meadows Shopping Centre, there will be a Wishmas Tree, where wishes will grow over the Christmas period. The tree will be located in the main area of the mall from Saturday 6th December and shoppers will be invited to write a Christmas wish and hang it on one of the tree’s branches. “We hope to fill the tree with all of our shoppers’ hopes and dreams for Christmas 2014.”
Don’t miss lots of great offfers from Meadows Shopping Centre exclusive to KidAround readers see page 6 for more information or visit www.kidaround.biz for the printable voucher.
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Diary Dates Sun 7 Epping Forest Fete A family fun day bringing the countryside to Wanstead. Suitable for all ages. 12 – 7pm. George Green, Wanstead, E11 2NT. 020 7332 1911. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingevents. Free Event Danbury Country Park
SEPTEMBER Mon 1 – Tue 30 Potato Picking Marsh Farm is proudly celebrating its 30th Birthday with a Potato Picking Party. Pick potatoes to take home. Meet all the animals, watch milking demonstrations, tractor rides and inflatables. Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park, South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5WP. www.marshfarm.co.uk Mon 1 Hedgehog Club – Bug Bonanza Learn about the bugs that live here through activities, games and crafts. Age: 4-8yrs, accompanied. 10am – 12pm. £5. Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, Downham CM11 1WT. 01268 711001 www.essexwt.org.uk BE Tue 2 – Fri 5 Back to School Buy one get one free offer on admission fee. Walton Hall Farm, Stanford-Le-Hope, SS17 0RH. www.waltonhallfarm.co.uk Wed 3 Little Acorns Pre-School Gardening Club Encourage your little ones to become budding gardeners at this fun and informal club. 10.30am – 12pm. Adult: £8.75, Child: £2. RHS Hyde Hall, Chelmsford CM3 8ET. 0845 265 8071 Fri 5 Outdoor Cinema - North by Northwest Outdoor screening of one of Hitchcock’s best loved thrillers within beautiful surroundings. For info and tickets go to www.createlondon.org. 7pm. £8.50. WaterWorks, Lammas Road, off Lea Bridge Road, Leyton, London E10 7QB. 08456 770 600. www.visitleevalley.org.uk BE Sat 6 Peppa Pig Meet Peppa Pig and George. 10am5pm. Adult: £14.50, Child: £13.50. Old Macdonald’s Farm, Brentwood, CM14 5AY. 01277 375177 www.omdfarm.co.uk Sat 6 Twisty Traffic Lights Keep safe and have fun – ideal for little ones learning about road safety. All ages. 10am – 4pm. £1. Essex Police Museum, HQ, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum Sun 7 Splash! An Underwater Adventure
Snapper Jaxx Kids Club at the Meadows Shopping Centre. Led by themed characters Perfect to entertain the kids. Just outside BHS 11am - 3pm. The Meadows Shopping Centre, Chelmsford. Free Event
Sun 7 A Walk in the Park A leisurely paced walk in River Lee Country Park. 10:30am – 12:30pm. 08456 770 600. www.visitleevalley.org.uk Free Event BE Sun 7 Family Day A range of activities, crafts, trails and games, all with a wildlife theme. Children must be accompanied. 1-3pm. £5/child. Belfairs Park and Nature Reserve, Leigh on Sea. www.visitsouthend.co.uk BE Tue 9 & Tue 23 Hatchlings Club Wildlife activities outside; games, crafts and music in the Centre. Drink and snack included. Age: 0-5yrs. 10am – 12pm. £5, £3 per sibling, babes in arms free. Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, Downham, CM11 1WT. 01268 711001 www.essexwt.org.uk BE Sat 13 & Sun 14 Heritage Weekend See the magnificent steam pumping engine and visit the Edwardian beltdriven workshop. Miniature steam train rides on Sunday only (£1). Museum & tearoom open from 10am. Museum of Power, Hatfield Road, Langford, CM9 6QA. www.museumofpower.org.uk Free Entry Sat 13 & Sun 14 Essex Country Show Displays, demonstrations, activities including appearances by Peppa Pig. 10am to 5pm. Advance tickets: Child: 3-16yrs £6, Adult: £12, Family Ticket (2+2) £30, Under 3’s free. Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, Billericay, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk Sat 13 & Sun 14 Leigh Regatta Entertainment, competitions, side shows, craft stalls and water events. High Street, Leigh on Sea, SS9 2EN www.visitsouthend.co.uk Free Entry Sat 13 Heritage Open Day Colchester Castle opens its doors free of charge. See the new exciting displays. Many other places in Colchester are open free around the town. Sat and Sun. 10am-4.30pm. www.cimuseums.org.uk/whatson Sat 13 Junior Angling Day A fun introduction to angling for children. All equipment provided. Must be accompanied by an adult. 10am – 2pm. £5. Theydon Bois pond, The Green, CM16 7EU. 020 7332 1911. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingevents BE Sat 13 Fingerprint Art Make colourful pictures with your fingerprints! All ages. 10am – 4pm. £1. Essex Police Museum, HQ, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum
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Sat 13 Mum2mum Market Nearly New Sales. 2-4pm. Adults £2, children free. Hylands School, Chelmsford, CM1 3DF. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk Sun 14 Poppy and a Poem Make a poppy and write a poem to add to a collective display of work which will be exhibited. 11am – 3.30pm. £2/child. Stables Visitor Centre, Hylands Estate, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ 01245 605523 Sun 14 Iron Age Roundhouse Open Afternoon Explore a replica Iron Age roundhouse and learn how your ancestors lived 2000 years ago. Plus crafts. (£1). 1 – 4pm. Hadleigh Country Park, SS7 2PP. www.hadleighcountrypark.co.uk 01702 551072. Free Event Mon 15 – Fri 26 Flop-in Art Space Relax and play with your family. Discover the textures of the forest, play new games and read exciting story books. 10am – 5pm. The View, Chingford, E4 7QH. 020 7332 1911. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingevents. Free Event Wed 17 Top Dog Dog handling clinic for individual advice and hands-on training. 5-7pm. Leyton Marsh, London E10 7QB. 08456 770 600. www.visitleevalley.org.uk Free Event Sat 20 & Sun 21 Open House - Three Mills A 20 minute guided tour of the grinding stones and waterwheels at this historic site. 11am-4pm. House Mill, Three Mills Island, Bromley-by-Bow, London E3 3DU. www.housemill.org.uk Free Event Sat 20 & Sun 21 Open House Junior Discover London’s architecture with activity workshops, building explorations and competitions. www.openhouselondon.org.uk/junior Free Event Sat 20 Open House - Myddelton House The annual opening of the magnificent house of E. A. Bowles. 10am-4pm. Myddelton House Gardens, Bulls Cross, Enfield EN2 9HG. 08456 770 600. www.visitleevalley.org.uk Free Event BE Sun 21 Autumn Migrants Workshop Learn about which Autumn migrants are passing through. Soup and roll included. Age: 11yrs+. 10am - 3pm. £7. Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, Downham, CM11 1WT. 01268 711001 www.essexwt.org.uk BE Sun 21 Cyclo-Cross Race Watch or take part in this round of the London Cyclo-Cross League. From 11am. Fee applies. Gunpowder Park, Waltham Abbey, EN9 3GP. www.londonxleague.co.uk BE
Fri 26 - Sun 4 Jan (2015) Lego Exhibition Over 75 large-scale artworks made from more than a million LEGO bricks. Includes an interactive zone for visitors to make their own artworks. The Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, London, E1 6QL. 020 7492 5374. www.artofthebrick.co.uk Fri 26 – Sun 28 Peppa Pig Visit Meet Peppa Pig at various intervals throughout the day. Plus meet all the animals, tractor rides and play areas. Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park, South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5WP. www.marshfarm.co.uk Sat 27 & Sun 28 Countryside Live Wildlife and countryside activities, arena displays, natural arts and crafts, exhibitors and more. 10am-5pm. Adult single day pass £5, two day pass £7, child FREE. Leyton Marsh, London E10 7QL. 08456 770 600. www.visitleevalley.org.uk Sat 27 Bushcraft Skills & Forest Deer Den building, fire-lighting and the correct and responsible use of knives. Includes a tour of the deer sanctuary. Age: 8yrs+, must be accompanied. No dogs please. Genesis Slade Car Park, CM16 7DS. 020 7332 1911. www. cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingevents. Free Event BE Sat 27 PC Gutteridge Murder Trail On the anniversary of his death, find the clues to solve the murder of Essex officer, PC Gutteridge. Age: 5yrs+. 10am – 4pm. £1. Essex Police Museum, HQ, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum Sat 27 Sailing Club Open Day Try out sailing dinghy or a power boat. 10am-4pm. Fishers Green Sailing Club, Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF. 01992 892 505. www.fishersgreensc.org.uk Free Event Sat 27 Stargazing Monthly stargazing event with North Essex Astronomy Group. The event is subject to clear weather. 6-9pm. Discovery Centre, Great Notley Country Park, CM77 7FS. Free Event
KEY TO DIARY DATES: BE = 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 winter issue, please email the details to: diarydates@kidaround.biz
Diary Dates Sat 27 Burnham Carnival Burnham Carnival day brings Burnham to life with fun and laughter throughout the Town. A day event with the parade starting at 7:30pm. High Street, Burnham on Crouch, www.burnham.org.uk/carnivalindex.html
Tue 7, Tue 21 & Tue 28 Hatchlings Club Wildlife activities outside; games, crafts and music in the Centre. Drink and snack included. Age: 0-5yrs. 10am – 12pm. £5, £3 per sibling, babes in arms free. Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, Downham, CM11 1WT. 01268 711001 www.essexwt.org.uk BE
Sun 28 Bike Ride A family bicycle ride around Epping Forest. Must wear a helmet and have a competent level of cycling. 10.45am – 4pm. Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge, E4 7QH. 020 7332 1911. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingevents. Free Event BE
Sat 11 Make a Wanted Poster Use pieces from an original 1970s photo fit kit to make your own criminal! All ages. 10am – 4pm. £1. Essex Police Museum, HQ, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum
Sun 28 Big Draw Party Draw, print, cut and colour at the launch of the Big Draw. Special guests include writer Jacqueline Wilson and illustrator Nick Sharratt. All ages. 11.30am-4.30pm. Museum of Childhood, London E2 9PA. www.museumofchildhood.org.uk Free Event BE
Sat 11 Nearly New Sale Good quality pre-owned baby to teens clothes, toys, books and nursery equipment. 12.30pm members, 1pm non-members. £2. St John Payne School, Patching Hall Lane, Chelmsford. 01245 201121 www.nct.org.uk/nns nctsalechelmsford@gmail.com.
OCTOBER Wed 1 Little Acorns Pre-School Gardening Club Encourage your little ones to become budding gardeners at this fun and informal club. 10.30am – 12pm. Adult: £8.75, Child: £2. RHS Hyde Hall, Chelmsford CM3 8ET. 0845 265 8071 Sat 4 An Artist’s Impression Draw a celebrity face from just a description – can you work out who it is? All ages. 10am – 4pm. £1. Essex Police Museum, HQ, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum Sat 4 Mum2mum Market Nearly New Sales. 10am-12pm. Adults £2, children free. South Woodham Ferrers Village Hall, 25 Hullbridge Road, CM3 5PL. www.mum2mummarket.co.uk Sat 4 & Sun 5 Grandparents’ Day Bring your grandparent for half price and they get a free cup of tea. 10am5pm. Adult: £14.50, Child: £13.50. Old Macdonald’s Farm, Brentwood, CM14 5AY. 01277 375177 www.omdfarm.co.uk Sun 5 A Walk in the Park A leisurely paced walk in River Lee Country Park. 10:30am – 12:30pm. 08456 770 600 www.visitleevalley.org.uk Free Event BE Sun 5 Spooky Stories
Snapper Jaxx Kids Club at the Meadows Shopping Centre. Led by themed characters. Perfect to entertain the kids. 11am - 3pm Just outside BHS, The Meadows Shopping Centre, Chelmsford. Free Event Sun 5 Lee Valley Minithon A three discipline competition for budding athletes from school years 3 7. Enter online at leevalley.org.uk/lvac or call 020 8344 7230. 12-6pm. £12/child. Lee Valley Athletics Centre, Edmonton, N9 0AR. www.visitleevalley.org.uk/athletics BE
Sun 12 Iron Age Roundhouse Open Afternoon Explore a replica Iron Age roundhouse and find out about Celtic warriors. Get ready for Hallowe’en by learning how to make fake wounds! 1 – 4pm. Hadleigh Country Park, SS7 2PP. 01702 551072. www.hadleighcountrypark.co.uk Free Event Sun 12 Nearly New Sale Top quality baby/children’s clothing and equipment at bargain prices. 10.30am12noon. £1.50 entry. Brentwood School Sports Centre (Courage Hall), Middleton Hall Lane, CM15 8EE. www.nct.org.uk/brentwood Sat 18 & Sun 19 Autumn Festival Longest apple peel competition, juicing, tasting and vicious veg! 10am – 4pm. Adult; £8.75, Child: £4.40. RHS Hyde Hall, Chelmsford CM3 8ET. 0845 265 8071 Sat 18 Model Railway Exhibition Working layouts, trade stands, train rides and refreshments. 10am-4.30pm. Adult: £4.50, Child: (5-15yrs) £2, under 5s free. King Edward VI Grammar School, Chelmsford, CM1 3SX. www.chelmsford-and-district.mrc.webs.com Sat 18 Apple Day Food producers’ market, apple tasting, apple juices plus fun and games. Check website first at www.eapples.co.uk/ Lathcoats Farm, Galleywood, Chelmsford CM2 8LX Mon 20 & Tue 21 Synchronised National Open See teams from all over UK taking part in this national competition. 9am-5pm. Lee Valley Ice Centre, Leyton, London E10 7QL. 020 8533 3154. www.visitleevalley.org.uk/iceskating Free Event
Fri 24 & Sat 25 Revolution Series The world’s premier elite cycling league, battling for the Revolution title. For information and tickets visit www. cyclingrevolution.com. Ticket fee applies. Lee Valley VeloPark, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London E20 3AB. 08456 770 603. www.visitleevalley.org.uk/velopark BE
Wed 29 Hedgehog Activities Explore the life of a hedgehog: enjoy hedgehog inspired games and learn how to make your garden more hedgehog friendly. Age: 5-11yrs, accompanied. 10am-12pm. £3/child. Roughtalleys Wood Local Nature Reserve, North Weald CM16 6BL. 01992 788203. BE
Sat 25 Fungus Foray Discover the fascinating world of fungi! Age: 6yrs+. 2 - 5pm. £5/adult, £3/child. Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, Downham, CM11 1WT. 01268 711001 www.essexwt.org.uk BE
Wed 29 Family Learning Event: First World War Activities showing what life was like in and around Epping Forest at the time of WW1. Suitable all ages. 12 – 3pm. The View, Chingford, E4 7QH. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingevents. 020 7332 1911 Free Event
Mon 27 – Fri 31 Wizz-bangs and Pipsqueaks World War One themed activities. Try on costumes and design your own medal. All ages. 10.30am-4pm., London E2 9PA. www.museumofchildhood.org.uk Free Event Mon 27 – Fri 31 The Big Draw: As safe as the Bank of England Help make the Bank even more secure by designing a new safe for the vaults. Enter competition, prizes to be won. 10am – 4.30pm. Bank of England Museum, London EC2R 8AH. www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum 020 7601 5545 Free Event Mon 27 The Big Draw Take part in a worldwide drawing event. This year’s theme is ‘It’s Our World’. 11am – 3pm. Stables Visitor Centre, Hylands Estate, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ. 01245 605523 Free Entry
Wed 1st – Sat 25th Oct Southend Firework Spectacular Watch the spectacular fireworks over the seafront. 7.30pm. Southend Seafront, Jubilee Beach. 01702 618747 Sat 1st & Sun 2nd Twilight Firework Evenings An evening of snap, crackle and pop (but no bangs!) specially for little ones, plus fairground rides. 4.30-7pm. Fireworks 6pm. £5/adult, £2.50/child (buy tickets online). Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, Billericay, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk Sat 1st Nov Firework Display & Bonfire Gates open at 6pm. Belchamps Scout Activity Centre, Hawkwell, SS5 4JD. 01702 562690. info@belchamps.co.uk www.belchamps.org.uk Sat 1st Nov Castle Point BC Fireworks Fiesta Enjoy the fun at the Fireworks Fiesta. Fireworks at 7.30pm. Ticket prices TBC. Waterside Farm Showground, Canvey Island 01268 882474 Wed 5th Nov Braintree Rugby Club Fireworks Fair, outside bar, BBQ, Funky Voices Community Choir, firework display. Gates and funfair 5.30pm. Choir 7pm. Bonfire 7.45pm, fireworks 8pm. £6/£4. Beckers Green Road 01376 323296.
Wed 29 Make a Poppy Decorate a poppy for Remembrance Day. All ages. 10am – 4pm. £1. Essex Police Museum, HQ, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum Wed 29 Owl Evening Find out about owls and see them in the visitor centre. Age: 6yrs+. 7 – 9pm. £6/ adult, £4/child. Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, Downham, CM11 1WT. 01268 711001 www.essexwt.org.uk BE Wed 29 Scrapbook Safari Explore the park, then go inside for a craft and scrapbooking session. Primary school age children, accompanied. 10am – 12pm/1.30 – 3.30pm. £6/child. Stables Visitor Centre, Hylands Estate, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ. 01245 605523
Sat 8th and Sun 9th Nov Guy Fawkes Festival Gunpowder plot story, craft activities and ‘Ghost of Guy Fawkes’ children’s play, plus a fabulous 15 minute firework display. Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JY Sat 8th Nov Billericay Charity Fireworks Night Includes live roadshow, food and drink. Kids display 6.15pm. Lake Meadows Park, Billericay. Advance tickets available at www.billericayfireworks. co.uk Sat 8th Nov Fireworks and Music Spectacular Fireworks accompanied by music. Gates open 6pm, bonfire 7pm, fireworks 7.30pm. Advance tickets TBC (price), or on the gate TBC. Maldon Promenade. 07939 255169 At time of print, many displays were not confirmed. Go to
www.kidaround.biz for more updated display listings.
If you know of an event near you please email: diarydates@kidaround.biz with full details and we can include them online!
www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • 11
Diary Dates NOVEMBER Sat 1 & Sun 2 Premier and British Open Canoe Slalom Competition See the best of GB’s canoe slalom paddlers battle it out on the Olympic course. 10am-3pm. Lee Valley White Water Centre, EN9 1AB. 08456 770 606. www.visitleevalley.org.uk Free Event Sat 1 Make a WW1 Zeppelin Learn about World War 1 and make an airship like the model on display in the museum. Age: 5yrs+. 10am – 4pm. £1. Essex Police Museum, HQ, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum Sun 2 A Walk in the Park A leisurely paced walk in River Lee Country Park. 10:30am – 12:30pm. www.visitleevalley.org.uk 08456 770 600. Free Event BE Sun 2 All Aboard
Snapper Jaxx Kids Club at the Meadows Shopping Centre. Led by themed characters. Perfect to entertain the kids. Just outside BHS 11am - 3pm. Free Event Go to
Wed 5 Little Acorns Pre-School Gardening Club Encourage your little ones to become budding gardeners at this fun and informal club. 10.30am – 12pm. Adult: £8.75, Child: £2. RHS Hyde Hall, Chelmsford CM3 8ET. 0845 265 8071
Sat 15 Make a Bookmark Use magnets and turn your favourite police cartoon characters into page markers for your favourite books! All ages. 10am – 4pm. £1. Essex Police Museum, HQ, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum
Sat 8 Lord Mayor’s Show Step into the world of Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad. Professional face painters transform visitors into characters from ‘The Wind in the Willows’. 11am – 5pm. Bank of England Museum, London EC2R 8AH. www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum 020 7601 5545 Free Event
Sun 16 Build a Bird Box Build a bird box to put up in your garden. Age: 4yrs+, accompanied. 10am – 12pm. £5. Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, Downham, CM11 1WT. 01268 711001 www.essexwt.org.uk
Sat 8 Make a Door Hanger Make a police themed door hanger for your bedroom door. All ages. 10am – 4pm. £1. Essex Police Museum, HQ, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum Tue 11 Tuesday Toddle Following a gentle stroll around the garden, head inside to make something fabulous to take home. Accompanied pre-school children. 10 – 11.30am/1 – 2.30pm. £5/child. Stables Visitor Centre, Hylands Estate, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ. 01245 605523
www.kidaround.biz for more diary date listings
And don’t forget to say you found it in KidAround when booking!
Sat 25 - Sun 2 (Nov)
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Spooky Bat Hunt
Self-led trail with bat theme. 10.30am - 2.30pm. £3/trail guide. Pavilion Café, Thorndon Country Park South, CM13 3LW. 0845 603 7624. www.visitparks.co.uk Sat 25 - Sun 2 (Nov)
Petunia’s Pick-Wizarding Wonder
Pumpkin carving, storytelling and more. 10am-5pm. Normal admission fees apply. Lee Valley Park Farms, Waltham Abbey, EN9 2EF. 01992 892 781. www. visitleevalley.org.uk/farms Sat 25 – Fri 31
Witches and Wizards
Storytelling, pumpkin carving (additional fee), free spooky craft activities, plus all the fun of the farm. Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park, South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5WP. www.marshfarm.co.uk Sat 25
Pumpkin Carving
Carve a fun design or scary face on a pumpkin. 10am - 3pm. Adult: £8.75, Child: £4.40. RHS Hyde Hall, Chelmsford CM3 8ET. 0845 265 8071. Sat 25
Halloween Masks
Make a colourful Halloween mask and keep safe this Halloween. Those in fancy dress go free! All ages. 10am – 4pm. £1. Essex Police Museum, HQ, Chelmsford, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum
Sat 25
Sat 22 Leigh Lights Switch On Family fun event including stalls, street entertainment, children’s fairground, live music. Starts 4.30pm; lights switch-on at 6.30pm. Town Centre, Leigh-on-Sea. www.visitsouthend.co.uk Free Entry Sun 23 Cycle the Olympic Way A guided ride passing Lee Valley White Water Centre, lunch stop at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park with a visit to the VeloPark.10:30am-3pm. Pindar car park, Windmill Lane, Hertfordshire EN11 0EH. 08456 770 600. www.visitleevalley.org.uk Free Event BE
Spooky Special
Spooky Activity Day
Shoot pumpkins in the archery range, high ropes, pedal karts, assault course, inflatables. Come in fancy dress if you want. 10am-4pm. £13. Belchamps Scout Activity Centre, Hockley, SS5 4JD. 01702 562690. info@belchamps.org.uk www. belchamps.org.uk Mon 27 - Fri 31
Pumpkinfest
Pumpkin carving, snakes and creepy crawlies, biscuit decorating fun, pumpkin trail and more. 10am – 4.30pm. Entry fee: child: £9, adult: £10, Under 2’s free, family £34. Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, Billericay, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk Tue 28 – Fri 31
Repulsive Plants & Frightening Food
Make slime, cabbage water, scary flowers and veg heads! 10am – 3pm. Adult: £8.75, Child: £4.40. RHS Hyde Hall, Chelmsford CM3 8ET. 0845 265 8071 Tue 28 – Thurs 30
Plenty of Ghoulish Fun
Lantern making (supplied or BYO). Tues 28th 11am-12:30 & 1:30 - 3pm. £4 Pumpkin carving Weds 29th & Thurs 30th. 11am - 12:30 & 1:30 - 3pm. £4 (incl pumpkin). Weald Country Park www.visitparks.co.uk 0845 603 7624 BE
12 • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Sun 16 Roundhouse Open Afternoon Explore the replica Iron Age roundhouse and learn how your ancestors lived 2000 years ago. 1–3pm. Hadleigh Country Park, SS7 2PP. 01702 551072 www.hadleighcountrypark.co.uk Free Event
Wed 29
Sun 23 Giant Bazaar Family Fun Day Crafts, balloonist, face-painitng, stalls with games for all ages, home-made cakes, a bar and a visit from Cosmo the dragon and Father Christmas with gifts. All money raised going to Great Ormond Street. 10am - 3pm. Hannakins Farm Hall, Rosebury Avenue, Billericay CM12 0SY Sat 29 Astronomy Open Evening Explore the night sky with telescopes and expert knowledge provided by Southend Planetarium and Castle Point Astronomy Club. Hot drinks for sale. Event will run only if skies are clear. 5–7pm. Hadleigh Country Park, SS7 2PP. www.hadleighcountrypark.co.uk 01702 551072 Free Event Sat 29 Tudor Christmas Step back in time and discover where the traditions of today have their roots. Refreshments and traditional craft stalls available. 10am-3pm. Southchurch Hall Museum, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 2TE www.southendmuseums.co.uk Free Entry Sat 29 Christmas Event Festive fun including real reindeers, children’s games, funfair, stalls and Christmas lights switch-on. 12-5pm. Canvey Island town centre, SS8 7RB. www.canveyisland-tc.gov.uk 01268 683971 Free entry
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Hawks Club-Hibernating Horrors
Wildlife and Halloween related crafts, games and activities. Age: 8-12yrs, may be unaccompanied. 10.30am – 3pm. £10. Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, Downham, CM11 1WT. 01268 711001 www.essexwt.org.uk BE Wed 29, Thur 30 & Fri 31
Plenty of Spooky Fun
Lots of fun activities and games with the odd spooky surprise lurking in the shadows. £7.95 per child. 11am - 2pm Cressing Temple. www.visitparks.co.uk 0845 603 7624 BE Thur 30 & Fri 31
Spooky Nights
Fairground rides, snakes and creepy crawlies, disco, safe trick or treating and more. 7-9.30pm. £8.50. Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, Billericay, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk
Thur 30
Family Fright Night
A spooky trail, walkabout entertainment, bespoke 3D projection show on the front of Hylands House plus firework finale. 4.30 – 6.30pm, 7.30 – 9.30pm. Adult: £10, child: £7, under 3’s free. Hylands Park, Chelmsford, CM2 8WQ. 01245 605500 Thur 30 & Fri 31
Nocturnal Nasties
Dress up in a Halloween costume and explore the wildlife. Plus arts and crafts, bat detecting and mini beast hunting. 4 – 8 yrs. 6pm– 8pm. £6. Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, CM11 1WT. 01268 711001 www.essexwt.org.uk BE Fri 31
Halloween Extravaganza
At Weald Country Park. Time and
details to be confirmed so check the www.visitparks.co.uk website for details.
Thur 30
Fri 31
Come in Halloween costume and follow the bat trail. Age: 3 – 8yrs. 10.30am – 2pm. £4/child. Hadleigh Country Park, SS7 2PP. 01702 551072
Self-led trail with prize. Hallowe’en hokum and spooky puzzles. 10.30am. £4/child. Pavilion Café, Thorndon Country Park South, CM13 3LW. 0845 603 7624. www.visitparks.co.uk BE
Vampire Bat Hunt
Thur 30
Ghostly Goings-on
Follow a trail from the spooky house to find as many bats as you can to win a prize. Costs £4 per child. Hadleigh Country Park. www.visitparks.co.uk
Hallowe’en Trail
Fri 31
Pumpkin Carving
Dress in a fancy dress costume, carve a pumpkin (plus competition). Suitable all ages, must be accompanied. Bring a pumpkin or buy one from the shop. 12 – 3pm. The View, Chingford, E4 7QH. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/eppingevents. 020 7332 1911 Free Event
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Spooky Special
You’re in for a scary surprise at Essex Country Parks
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School Time
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If your little ones are looking for ghosts, ghouls and large helpings of Halloween fun this October half term, look no further than the Essex Country Parks and Cressing Temple. Cressing Temple - Plenty of Spooky Fun and mysterious surprises will delight and entertain for three days; Wednesday 29th, Thursday 30th and Friday 31st October. Full details still being finalised for this year’s Spooky Fun but it promises to be a blast. Costs £7.95 per child. Pre-booking essential. Hadleigh Country Park - Expect some ghostly goings-on on Thursday 30th. Follow a trail from the spooky house to find as many bats as you can to win a prize. Costs £4 per child. No need to book. Weald Country Park - Visit this park if you fancy discovering new beasts and want to make your own Halloween essentials. There you will find: • A self-led Halloween trail called Fantastic Beasts that runs for the entire October half term. Trail packs cost £3 from the Visitor Centre. • Two slots of lantern making are available from 11am to 12:30pm and 1.30pm to 3pm on Tuesday 28th. Each will accommodate 16 children with an adult to assist. Costs £4 per child, and includes decorating materials. Jars provided or bring your own. Pre-booking essential. • Pumpkin carving on the following two days Wednesday 29th and Thursday 30th, there will be two slots per day from 11am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 3pm. Each slot will accommodate 16 children with an adult to assist. Costs £4 per child, and includes one pumpkin and the use of carving tools. Pre-booking essential. • On Friday 31st Weald Country Park is hosting its big Halloween Extravaganza. Time and details to be confirmed so check the website: www.visitparks.co.uk for details. Pre-booking essential. Thorndon Country Park (South) - Some fab Halloween fun for all the family. The Spooky Bat Hunt takes place on Saturday 25th to Sunday 2nd. Costs £3 per trail guide. The Halloween Trail starting at 10.30am, gives you a chance to solve some spooky riddles on Friday 31st. Costs £4 per child. Pre-booking essential. Car-park charges apply but for those who took advantage of our recent offer of 50 per cent off a six-month season ticket, car-parking will already be covered. There is an Iron Age Roundhouse Open Afternoon at Hadleigh Country Park on Sunday 12th at 1pm, and Discovery Centre Stargazing takes place at Great Notley Country Park on Saturday 25th between 6pm and 9pm. With plenty of pictures and updates to give a taste of Essex Country Parks’ life on Twitter @visitparks and you can join the Facebook community by liking the Visitparks page. To pre-book an event in the Essex Country Parks, call 0845 603 7624 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Full details of these and other events taking place in October are listed on the Country Parks website www.visitparks.co.uk.
www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • 13
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Spooky Special
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October half-term at Hylands
Fright Night Established as a firm family Halloween favourite, Fright Night is packed full of the latest technology to wow the crowds. Designed for families, the event includes a spooky trail, walkabout entertainment, a bespoke 3D projection show on the front of the House and a spectacular firework finale to music. The trail is set through the gardens of Hylands Estate which comes to life after dark. There’s the odd trick along the way but a treat awaits every child once they’ve braved the trail. Listen to spooky stories on the back lawn, watch fire dancers and have your face painted before being led round to the front of the house for the big show. 3D projection mapping is a fascinating show to watch and has previously included scenes of the House burning down and rebuilding itself, snake infestations and even a trip into outer space, all accompanied to a funky soundtrack. The show closes with a firework display over the top of the house, played out to music. Thursday 30 October - Shows: 4pm – 6pm or 7pm – 9pm Tickets: £10 adult, £7 child, under 3 free, all £10 on door if available. For further information visit www.chelmsford.gov.uk/frightnight Big Draw Join in the Big Draw in the Stables Visitor Centre (upper floor) where you can also meet their resident artists. There’s an environmental theme this year – ‘It’s Our World’ – so why not take an inspirational walk in the park before picking up your drawing tools? Monday 27 October 11am – 3pm Accompanied children only. No need to book but places may be limited at busy times. Materials included. £1 per child For further information visit www.chelmsford.gov.uk
Half Term Pumpkinfest at Barleylands
From 27th to 31st October join in extra 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, snakes and creepy crawlies and biscuit decorating. Don’t miss the special evening events too. Halloween Spooky Nights return on 30th & 31st October, and on 1st & 2nd November there’ll be special Toddler Firework Evenings full of colourful fireworks with no loud surprises for younger guests. Barleylands is in Billericay, CM11 2UD. Tel: 01268 532253 For further details visit www.barleylands.co.uk
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14 • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Coalhouse Fort
The Coalhouse Fort Project is a charity operated by volunteers to preserve and maintain the Victorian Casemate fort at East Tilbury, Essex. The fort was built between 1861 - 74 to defend London from the French and occupied by the army and navy through to 1962 when it was passed over to Thurrock Council. The fort is open to the public every last Sunday and Bank Holidays from March - November with a number of special events. There are two museums, a memorial garden and a number of guns and vehicles on display. A special 2 day event is also held for Halloween. Please see website for admission charge for this special event. Admissions on regular open days: Adults £4 conc. £3, child (5-16) 50p. www.coalhousefort.co.uk
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Spooky Special
Scary Fun At Lee Valley Park
Lee Valley Park Farms is the perfect venue for kids who love animals to hold their birthday party. As part of the birthday bundle you can choose a unique animal experience where kids can get up close to their favourite furry friends such as guinea pigs and reindeers. Also included are hot and cold party food, balloon animals and party bags, whilst the birthday child will also receive a Petunia Pig toy. There are also indoor and outdoor play areas to entertain everyone for hours. Whatever the time of year, Lee Valley Park Farms promises a fantastic day out for the whole family. Visitors will enjoy meeting and making friends with the many animals who live at Lee Valley Park Farms including cuddly sheep, giant rabbits, rare breed pigs, long-necked llamas and a loveable meerkat family. The indoor and outdoor play areas are great for kids to run around and explore along with a tractor and trailer ride to the dairy farm - adds that little bit more to a farmtastic day out. There’s also a toboggan run to enjoy sliding down in the sunshine. This autumn there’s mischief brewing down on the farms. Go and discover the spooky Halloween festivities. Get carving at the Pumpkin patch, be enchanted by the story teller or simply join in the trick or treat trail and much, much more. For more information on events at Lee Valley Park Farms go to visitleevalley.org.uk/farms or call 01992 892 781.
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Things will be going bump again in Essex this Halloween
From the scary haunted Royal Gunpowder Mills and chilling story tellers at Audley End House to wizards and witches at Marsh Farm and creepy crawlies at Barleylands. 25 – 31 October: Wizards and Witches Week at Marsh Farm - Wizards and Witches will have your little monsters entertained all day! With walkabout entertainers, story-telling, pumpkin carving (additional fee) and free spooky craft activities. www.marshfarm.co.uk Wizards & Witches at Marsh Farm 27 - 31 October: Frightening Fairytales at Audley End House - Fearless souls required for a thrilling family adventure. Grab your cloaks and steady your nerves as you come face to face with the dark side of childrens’ tales. www.english-heritage.org.uk/audleyend 29 October – 1 November: Halloween Zombie Horror Tours at Mountfitchet Castle - Go along to Mountfitchet Castle during the most haunted time of the year to have the fright night of your life on their guided night time horror tours. www.mountfitchetcastle.com 30 – 31 October: Spooky Nights at Barleylands - This year there’ll be more scary spooks than ever. A Boo Barn full of surprises, slithery snakes and creepy crawlies from Snakes Alive, ghastly games, a devilish disco, fairground rides and a ghost train. www.barleylands.co.uk 31 October: Batty Halloween at Hatfield Forest - Visit the Forest on the scariest night of the year. Halloween crafts, games and stories a-plenty, then an after-dark candle-lit trail through the woods. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatfieldforest 31 October: Halloween Haunted Mills at Royal Gunpowder Mills - Visit the scary haunted Mills at night and learn about the gory past of the Gunpowder Mills. There are sure to be ghouls and ghosts about. You will be guided through one of their ancient buildings and hear chilling tales of explosions. www.royalgunpowdermills.com For more Halloween events please go to www.visitessex.com/halloween
www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • 15
Festive Entertainment 28th Oct Comedy Club 4 Kids
The best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best... but without the rude bits! Age: 6yrs+. 2pm. Various prices. Queen’s Theatre 01708 443333
LONDON 8th Oct – 8th Feb (2015) Grandad, Me… and Teddy Too
BASILDON 7th Sept Old MacDonald Had a Farm
Old MacDonald’s animals have gone missing! Can you help a friendly scientist and his amazing time machine get them back for him? 2.30pm. £9.50/£8.50. Towngate Theatre 01268 465465
25th Oct The Nutcracker
The Russian State Ballet presents the classic tale of Marie, whose godfather Drosselmeier gives her a Nutcracker doll as a present on Christmas Eve which turns into a prince and the magic starts... 7.30pm. £25. Towngate Theatre 01268 465465
14th Nov Swan Lake
The Russian State Ballet and Opera House present this classic ballet with a live orchestra. 7.30pm. Towngate Theatre 01268 465465
CHELMSFORD 20th Sept Comedy Club 4 Kids
The best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best... but without the rude bits! Age: 6yrs+. 2pm. £7.50. Cramphorn Theatre 01245 606505 3rd & 4th Oct
Hugless Douglas
Join Hugless Douglas in his search for the perfect hug. Age: 3-7yrs. Various times. £10. Civic Theatre 01245 606505 21st – 25th Oct
Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain
A brand new show with amazing 3D effects. Age: 5yrs+. Various times. £15. Civic Theatre 01245 606505 BE
HORNCHURCH 21st Sept Private Peaceful
Based on Michael Morpurgo’s story of Private Tommo Peaceful, a young First World War soldier awaiting the firing squad at dawn. During the night he looks back at his short but joyful past growing up in rural Devon. Age: 8yrs+. 5pm. Various prices. Queen’s Theatre 01708 443333
12th & 13th Oct Sleeping Beauty
The Moscow Ballet perform this classic. Various times/prices. Queen’s Theatre 01708 443333
Join Grandad, Mia (and Teddy Too) as they share an unforgettable adventure to wherever their imaginations take them. Age: 2-5yrs. Various times. £11.50. Polka Theatre, Wimbledon 020 8543 4888
SOUTHEND ON SEA 15th & 16th Sept What the Ladybird Heard
Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have a plan to steal the farmer’s fine prize cow, but ladybird has a plan of her own! Various times/prices. Palace Theatre 01702 351135
30th Sept – 4th Oct Barnum
Musical following the imagination and dreams of America’s greatest showman. Various times/prices. Cliffs Pavilion 01702 351135
PANTOMIME LISTINGS
CHELMSFORD 3rd Dec – 4th Jan Peter Pan
An action-packed production featuring magnificent scenery, beautiful costumes, an abundance of comedy and even characters flying above the stage! Various times/ prices. Civic Theatre 01245 606505
HORNCHURCH 29th Nov – 10th Jan Sleeping Beauty
Once upon a time a beautiful baby Princess was born. At her blessing ceremony, an evil fairy cast a spell on her so that on her 18th birthday she would prick her finger and fall asleep for 100 years. Will the dashing Prince undo the wicked curse and save the day? Various times/prices. Queen’s Theatre 01708 43333
SOUTHEND ON SEA 13th Dec – 11th Jan Peter Pan
David Hasselhoff and Christopher Biggins star as Captain Hook and pantomime dame Mrs Smee. Various times/prices. Cliffs Pavilion 01702 351135
THURROCK 5th Dec – 4th Jan Snow White
The fairest pantomime of them all, this will include spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, amazing special effects and fun for the entire family. Various times/prices. Thameside Theatre 0845 300 5264
16 • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Cinderella
Basildon’s No.1 family pantomime
Enchanted pumpkins, sparkling glass slippers, a pair of ugly sisters and a handsome prince can only mean one thing! As time is against her, will or won’t Cinderella make it to the ball in time? Join Cinderella and her fairy godmother in this year’s spectacular Christmas pantomime at the Towngate in Basildon. Simon Fielding who is the director of this year’s pantomime is returning to the Towngate Theatre for the 8th year running and will also star as ‘Buttons’. He said: “The cast and I are so excited about this year’s panto, so get ready boys and girls for an amazing magical tale which will be full of wonderful surprises, favourite songs and some fun characters. “We can’t wait to see you all again this festive season so get booking.” Sprinkled with Towngate panto magic, Cinderella, which is one of the world’s greatest fairy tales and most loved children’s stories, is going to feature a mix of fun characters and favourite songs which will be enjoyed by all the family. Book your seats early before they sell out, otherwise not even your Fairy Godmother will be able to magic you a ticket for Basildon’s biggest pantomime. Cinderella runs from Wednesday 3 December 2014 to Sunday 4 January 2015 at the Towngate Theatre, St Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex SS14 1DL. This event is not suitable for children under the age of 3 years. To book your panto tickets or for further details and best rates visit the Towngate Theatre website at www.towngatetheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01268 465465 Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TowngateTheatre Like on Facebook: www.facebook.com/towngatepanto
Festive Entertainment Civic Theatre
The story of Peter Pan is one of the best loved stories for all the family. Chelmsford City Theatres, in partnership with One From The Heart, add swashbuckling magic to bring together this traditional pantomime from Wednesday 3 December 2014 to Sunday 4 January 2015. When Peter Pan flies into the bedroom of the Darling children one night and flies them to Neverland, a treasure chest of adventure begins. Join Tinkerbell, Tiger Lily and the Lost Boys to do battle on Peter Pan’s arch enemy, the villainous Captain Hook and his pirates. Peter Pan is an action-packed production featuring magnificent scenery, beautiful costumes, an abundance of comedy and even characters flying above the stage! Hook your seats now! Tickets are £20.00, concessions £17.00 and a family ticket is £64.00. Group discounts are available. Book tickets online by visiting www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres or via the Box Office on 01245 606505. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
**WIN** Two family tickets up for grabs to see the swashbuckling family pantomime at Chelmsford Civic Theatre. Tickets are for 2 adults, 2 children or 1 adult, 3 children to the performance on Saturday 6 December at 6.00pm. You could be there! To enter, all you need to do is answer the following question. Who is Peter Pan’s arch enemy? Captain Pugwash Captain Haddock Captain Hook Send your answers to comps@kidaround.biz by Fri 28th November. A winner will be picked at random.
Sleeping Beauty At Queen’s Theatre
The magical festive pantomime Sleeping Beauty is playing at the Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, from 29 November – 10 January. Oh yes it is! Everyone’s favourite fairytale comes to life in the enchanting, fun-filled family show for all ages. Starring, cut to the chase, the Queen’s awardwinning professional resident company of actor-musicians. When beautiful Princess Aurora is born, evil Fairy Carabosse places an evil curse on the infant at her blessing ceremony – so that on Aurora’s 18th birthday, she will prick her finger on a spinning wheel and fall asleep for 100 years. And all because of an embarrassing little mix-up with the Princess’s party invites... oops! Everyone across the land is devastated. It seems nothing can undo this terrible spell – not even Aurora’s doting father King Ethelbert! But what about handsome young Tom Clutterbuck, Aurora’s childhood sweetheart? Well, he’s certainly going to give it his all! Accompanied by the Good Fairy Primrose, Nurse Nellie, Silly Billy and the King, he’s off on the adventure of a lifetime through an Enchanted Forest, fighting the wicked Carabosse and fending off a terrifying dragon along the way! Join them on a death-defying expedition from the castle to forest with Tom and the gang – all wrapped up with a lot of panto fun and frolics… Expect fun and laughter, songs and music, a stunning set, fantastic costumes, barrel-loads of glitter and plenty of audience participation! Sleeping Beauty plays at the Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, from 29 November – 10 January. Tickets are £12.50 - £26.50 and group discounts are available. For prices, performance times and to book tickets, call the Box Office on 01708 443333 or book online at queens-theatre.co.uk
www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • 17
Kidding Around Ever After High A Wonderful World Hardback £9.99 www.littlebrown.co.uk
I loved the first two books in the series, and I loved this one too. They are really cool books with beautiful coloured pages and there are a lot of characters with mad names so I do have to concentrate when I read them. The story is great because strange magic takes over the school. My favourite person is Lizzie Hearts. I can’t wait for the next book. Reviewed by Beth Jolly, aged 10
WENDY QUILL IS FULL UP OF WRONG by Wendy Meddour and Mina May RRP: £5.99 Available from all good book stores Wendy Quill is a girl who gets things wrong sometimes but then always tries to put it right. This book is hilarious. The illustrations are really good all the way through and really help the story and they are all done by the author’s 11 year old daughter. The writing is a little tricky sometimes as she says things in funny ways and sometimes she invents her own words, so there were a few bits that I had to read twice to understand what she meant. I will definitely read more Wendy Quill Reviewed by Holly Ellison. Aged 8
Secrets Of The Tomb - The Phoenix Code By Helen Moss RRP £6.99 www.orionbooks.co.uk
A Phoenix, a code, all set in Egypt; what could this be about? The book is so good as it is rightly paced, and doesn’t reveal too much in each chapter, giving a sense of trepidation, and a foreboding atmosphere. It pulls you into a world of mystery, trickery, secrets and adventure; you feel like you are in the book, and that’s what makes this book so special. I finished it in two nights. It was so good, I couldn’t put it down. I even secretly read it when I was meant to be asleep. For those who like the Hunger Games, Harry Potter or Divergent, this is a must read. Reviewed by Connor Jewiss aged 12
**WIN**
Jessica and I re ad Florentine and the Pig 3 times. Jessica was completely engrossed throughout th e story, with an occasional question and “Again,again Gr andad!” Whe n she saw the shadow of the Prowling Bog Mog Jessica covered her ey es but was relie ved when they discovered wh at it really was. We enjoyed th book, the illustr e ations and subj ect matter were great. The activ ities included in the book are fu and varied and n we will be mak ing the Twinkly Jam Jar Lanter ns very soon. Th ere are some lovely healthy recipes and so me not so healt Reviewed by hy! Jessica Laura aged 4 and he Grandad r
Mungo Monkey Goes to School by Lydia Monks RRP £7.99 Available from Amazon and other good book stores. www.egmont.com
Ashlea and I read this book together. Ashlea loved the pictures and really enjoyed lifting all the flaps (which are thankfully quite sturdy) to find Mungo’s friends, his spider and all the other bugs in the story. Beautiful bright colours and fun illustrations which kept Ashlea focused on the book. There are lots of details to find and talk about with young children, a really nice book. Reviewed by Ashlea Martin, aged 2, one of the books on this page and her Mum.
go to www.kidaround.biz to find out how.
18 • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Florentine an d Pi Spooky Forest g and the Adventure By Eva Katzle r RRP £6.99 /£ 10.99
School Time The National Curriculum has changed are you ready?
From September there is a new National Curriculum which will affect most pupils - children in Years 2 and 6 will remain on the old curriculum until September 2015. Academies and Free Schools are exempt.
What subjects are affected? English Maths Science Design & technology ICT Languages Your childs’ school should let you know about the changes and how you can help. If not, you can find more information at www.gov.uk/government/ collections/national-curriculum
To help your child get the most out of primary school, Toby Young & Miranda Thomas have written ‘What Every Parent Needs To Know’ . Toby & Miranda (who between them have nine children) cut through the confusing jargon, speaking to parents as parents themselves. From Phonics check to SPAG tests, they demystify the journey through Primary school and tell you how to help your child every step of the way. Available in hardback and Kindle from amazon or www.penguin.com RRP £14.99 WIN WIN WIN...We have five books to give away! To be in with a chance of winning one of these great books, email your name, address and telephone number to comps@ kidaround.biz or send by post to Trew Publishing Ltd, 66 Baynard Avenue, Little Dunmow, Essex CM6 3FD by 17th October.
School Open Events BURNHAM-ON-CROUCH Ormiston Rivers Academy
Open Evening: Whole School 18th Sept Sixth Form: 6th Oct
Southminster Road Burnham on Crouch CM0 8QB 01621 782377 www.ormistonriversacademy.co.uk
BRENTWOOD
Open Morning: 11th Oct 10am - 1:30pm
Warley Street Great Warley CM13 3LA 01277 245595 www.woodlandsschools.co.uk
CHELMSFORD
New Hall School
Hutton Manor School
Open Morning: 3rd Oct 9am - 12pm
Woodlands School, Great Warley
Hutton Manor CM13 1SD 01277 245595 www.woodlandsschools.co.uk
Open Morning: 27th Sept 9am - 12pm The Avenue Borham CM3 3HS 01245 236 098 www.newhallschool.co.uk
Bursaries at Hutton Manor
Hutton Manor and its onsite Little Acorns Day Nursery are overflowing with opportunities for children aged 3 months to 11 years. Pupils are eager to come to school every day because they feel valued and challenged. The school aims to drive and inspire pupils across all areas of the curriculum whilst equipping them to become valuable and caring citizens. They pride themselves on the fact that they are an inclusive school which believes in competition. Class sizes are small and Head Teacher, Paula Hobbs commented that this “ensures the individual learning needs of children are met, whilst specialist teaching offers the opportunity to achieve academic excellence.” Their curriculum goes well beyond the national curriculum and pupils achieve high academic results. With exceptional relationships with local Senior Schools they ensure that children achieve a place at the Senior School that is right for them, many of these being Grammar Schools and selective Independent Schools. The school and nursery are based over 30 acres of stunning grounds on the edge of Hutton Village and children thrive in the inspiring, happy and safe environment. Facilities include: their very own nature trail, ponds, netball courts, playing fields, bike track and indoor heated swimming pool, perfect for their annual triathlon! Hutton Manor believes that all children deserve access to a first class education and have recently introduced financial assistance in the form of means-tested bursaries which enable children to receive up to 50% off school fees. Hutton Manor School is holding an Open Day on Friday 3rd October 2014 from 9:00am – 12:00noon. For further information please contact our Admissions Registrar, Debbie Cook on 01277 245595 or dc@woodlandsschools.co.uk or visit www.woodlandsschools.co.uk www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • 19
New Hall School
Choosing a Pre-Reception or Nursery is one of the most important decisions parents have to make. Marisa White, Pre-Reception Manager at New Hall School in Chelmsford, shares her tips for what to look for when making this decision. Quality: Ask to see a copy of the recent Ofsted or ISI inspection report, which highlights the overall quality of the education, care and appropriateness of equipment and facilities. This should be available on the school’s website or by asking a member of staff. Curriculum: The Early Years Stage is the most rapid stage of development in a child’s life and is a once in a lifetime opportunity to give the best possible start to their educational journey. The curriculum should be broad and inspirational, providing your child with the chance to try something new, and should be adjusted to match each child’s abilities. In line with the government’s Early Years Foundation Stage documentation, it should cover the seven areas of the Early Years Curriculum. At New Hall, there are additional subjects available such as French, Music, Ballet and Sport which are taught by specialist teachers. Staffing: The daily experience of children in Early Years and the quality of provision depends on practitioners having appropriate qualifications, training, skills and knowledge. A good Pre-Reception will take pride in their commitment to recruiting the best staff and recognise the clear link between well-qualified enthusiastic staff and quality care. Environment: Schools should be committed to the provision of a safe environment for the children in their care. Children should feel happy and confident in a stimulating and safe environment. The equipment should be of a good quality, clean and appropriate. Children should have regular access to a secure and clean outdoor area. Ethos: The ethos should indicate to parents what the values, beliefs and aims are of the setting. It should tell parents what principles the Pre-Reception is committed to and what atmosphere they aim to create. Partnership: Parents should have opportunities to be involved and to understand how their child is progressing. Early Years provision is an active partnership with parents, which flourishes through effective communication. Regular parent evenings, dedicated parent notice boards and regular informal discussions will ensure a high level of feedback. Reputation: A good Pre-Reception should have a welcoming, friendly atmosphere and be known for its nurturing environment and stimulating curriculum. Consider asking the school if you are able to chat to current parents or arrange a visit during the afternoon pick-up time to get a true feel of the relationship between the school and parents. Admission into New Hall School, a leading independent school in Chelmsford, starts from the age of 3 years old. To arrange a visit, contact the Admissions Department on 01245 236 098 or visit newhallschool.co.uk
20 • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
School Time Woodlands School, Great Warley Taking Learning Outside
If education is a voyage of discovery, why not take learning outside? That is exactly what the children at Woodlands School and Little Acorns Nursery have been doing this term. The Head Teacher, Barbara Harding, believes that taking learning beyond the classroom engages children, makes learning more relevant, nurtures creativity and imagination and promotes healthy living. The school have recently adopted the philosophy of Forest Schools which is to encourage and inspire individuals of any age through positive outdoor experiences. Through play and exploration they aim to develop: Self Awareness Self Regulation Intrinsic motivation Empathy Good social communication skills Independence A positive mental attitude, selfesteem and confidence Most importantly the children have freedom to think for themselves and take part in an activity weekly which is not about results or doing what the teacher asks but is self motivating and very stimulating for all of our children and their teachers. The school, based in Great Warley, is set over nine acres of rural land and features a purpose built nature trail, an outdoor learning area containing outdoor learning spaces, a pond, a mud kitchen and an outdoor story telling area on the school lawn. Rain or shine the children go outside and enjoy nature, something so many children no longer have the freedom to do. They return to their classrooms inspired by the world around them and this has impacted on all areas of their learning. Go see for yourself: Woodlands School are holding an Open Day on Saturday 11th October 2014 from 10:00am – 1:30pm. For further information please contact the Admissions Registrar, Debbie Cook on 01277 245595 or dc@woodlandsschools.co.uk or visit www.woodlandsschools.co.uk
Ormiston Rivers Academy
Ormiston Rivers Academy is a smaller than average secondary school with approximately 850 students aged from 11 to 18. The Academy offers the highest levels of student support and care with academic mentoring and tracking for individuals, running alongside a rich & diverse curriculum, providing personal pathways for children of all abilities. Its Gifted & Talented programme is run in conjunction with its local Primary Schools, ensuring that more able students are set challenging targets from day one. It is also renowned for its care of students with special educational needs and the support put in place to enable each and every one to reach their full potential. The Academy received its first Ofsted inspection in July 2013 and was delighted with the result of the inspection where it was deemed to be “Good” in all areas. In 2014 the Academy was recognised as being in the top 20% of schools nationally for progress made by pupils between their key stage 2 results at Primary School and their GCSE results at age 16. The Academy has an excellent record of good behaviour and holds a strong belief in “firm but fair” discipline. It looks to ensure that all students are happy & fulfilled, whilst being well - mannered and ambitious. The Academy is situated in Burnham on Crouch, a riverside town with a strong sense of community, of which it is at the centre. It is led by Principal, Ms J Costello who has a strong record of school improvement and is supported by Ormiston Trust, a renowned & innovative Academy sponsor. For more information contact Admissions: 01621 782377 email: info@ormistonriversacademy.co.uk or visit their website at: www.ormistonriversacademy.co.uk
www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • 21
BRENTWOOD Kip McGrath
BASILDON Action Learning Centres
An alternative education centre for learning outside of the classroom. For 11-17 year olds. 01268 711677 or email info@actionlearningcentres.co.uk www.actionlearningcentres.co.uk
Kip McGrath
Tuition for 4-18 year olds. Professional, qualified, specialist teachers in maths, English, GCSE, 11+, SATs. Mon - Fri after school. Sat from 8am. 12A Barclays Bank Chambers, SS13 3AS. Call Breggie Rautenbach 01268 556700 kmcbasildon@aol.com kipmcgratheducation.co.uk 11+ ENG ICT MAT SAT SEN
Kumon Drop-in sessions Wednesdays 4:006:30pm and Fridays 4:00-6:00pm at St Paul’s Methodist Church, Ballard’s Walk, SS15 5HL Ms Ona Fadayomi 01277 210 937 basildon@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT
BENFLEET Kumon
Professional tuition in maths, English, 11+, other entry exams. From Reception to GCSE. Ofsted Registered. Childcare vouchers accepted. For a FREE educational assessment 01277 200919 www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/brentwood 11+ ENG MAT SEN SAT
BUCKHURST HILL Kumon
Drop in sessions Mondays & Fridays 3.15-5.15pm St John’s Church Hall High Road Buckhurst Hill IG9 5RX Mr Ken MacLeod 020 8123 8548 ENG MAT
CHELMSFORD Ace Tuition
Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. Daytime classes available for home-schooled students. Iain McKenzie 07780 506615 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN
Explore Learning
Tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Free trial session 01245 450501 www.explorelearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SEN
Hylands House
Drop-in sessions Wednesdays 3:306:30pm and Saturdays 9:30-12:00pm at Benfleet Methodist Church, 67 High Road, Benfleet SS7 5LH Ms. Niru Vijay 01268 533 386 benfleet@kumoncentre.co.uk
Hylands holds the Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) quality mark badge and offers educational visits for preschool to higher education students. 01245 605524 dawn.hoyle@chelmsford.gov.uk ENG SAT SCI
ENG MAT
Kumon - Chelmsford South
BILLERICAY Kip McGrath
Professional tuition in maths, English, 11+, other entry exams. From Reception to GCSE. Ofsted registered. For a FREE educational assessment call 01277 621515 www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/billericay 11+ ENG MAT SEN
Drop in sessions Mondays & Thursdays 4-6pm Moulsham Lodge Methodist Church, Lime Walk, Chelmsford CM2 9NJ. Ms Mangala Lele. 01245 349666 ENG MAT
Kumon - Chelmsford North
Drop in sessions Wednesdays 3.305.30pm and Saturdays 9.00-11.00am Springfield Parish Centre St. Augustines Way Chelmsford CM1 6GX Ms Eirini Grammatikopoulou
TopClass Tutoring
Kip McGrath Southend East
Private tuition for children aged 7-11. All subjects, all abilities. Chelmsford-based. Call Helen Cullender on 01245 422233 or 0759 5154 821 topclasstutoring.co.uk 11+ ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN
ESSEX
Offers children aged 4-16 years professional tuition for maths, English, and exam preparation. Phone for a FREE assessment on 01702 615838 217/219 Hamstel Road, SS2 4LB 11+ ENG MAT SAT SEN SCI
Kip McGrath Southend West
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
HORNCHURCH
Offers children aged 4-16 years professional tuition for maths, English, and exam preparation. Phone for a FREE assessment on 01702 557177. 333 London Road, Hadleigh, SS7 2BT 11+ ENG MAT SAT SEN SCI
THORPE BAY
Explore Learning
Tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities. 35 High Street, Hornchurch, RM11 1TP. 01708 629620 hornchurch@explorelearning.co.uk www.explorelearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SEN
Kumon
LAKESIDE
Drop-in sessions Mondays 4:00 6:00pm, Thursdays 4:00 - 6:00pm and Saturdays 9:00 - 11:00 am at Christchurch Centre, 56 Colbert Avenue, Southend-On-Sea, SS1 3BP Mrs Alison Wallace 01702 216511 thorpebay@kumoncentre.co.uk
Explore Learning
ENG MAT
Tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Free trial session 01708 869650 www.explorelearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SEN
LOUGHTON Kumon
Drop-in sessions Mondays 4:00 – 6:00pm and Thursdays 4:00 – 6:00pm at Loughton Methodist Church, 260 High Road, Loughton, IG10 1RB Mr Roger Winn 020 8532 0638 loughton@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT
MALDON
WESTCLIFF-ON-SEA Eureka
One-to-one tuition, guaranteed to make a difference. Ages 4+. Ofsted registered childcare providers. Call Jodie on 01702 314674 or 07825 629124 www.eurekatutoring.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SAT SEN
Kumon
Drop-in sessions Tuesdays 3:455:45pm and Saturdays 9:00-11:00am at Crowstone St George United Reform Church, Crowstone Road, SS0 8LH. Mrs Alexandra Ruddell 01702 206341 westcliffonsea@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT
Rollett-Ed Private Tuition
Experienced Primary and Special Needs Teacher available for 1:1 tuition for students aged 5 – 13 years. Cassandra Rollett-Reed 07592 829596 www.rollett-ed.co.uk ENG SEN
ROMFORD Explore Learning
Tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Free trial session 01708 767819 www.explorelearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SEN
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA Explore Learning
Tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Free trial session 01702 568808 www.explorelearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SEN
WICKFORD Kumon
Drop-in sessions Thursdays 3:305:30pm and Saturdays 9:20-11:20am at Wick Neighbourhood Centre, Silva Island Way, Wickford SS12 9NR. Mrs Joanne Cooper 01245 329 650 wickford@kumoncentre ENG MAT
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
WOODFORD GREEN Explore Learning
Tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Free trial session 020 8090 6716 www.explorelearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SEN
11+ 11 PLUS LAN LANGUAGES SAT SATs
22 • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
ENG ENGLISH
ICT COMPUTING
MAT MATHEMATICS
SCI SCIENCE
MUS MUSIC
SEN SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS
Education
www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • 23
Let’s Party
ACTIVITY PARTIES
Action Park, Party Kids Quad bike
parties, army-themed parties, wristband parties, Hagglund troop carrier, target paintball, motorcross, high ropes course and more. Age 6+. On the A127. Call 0844 683 0675 or visit www.actionpark.co.uk Email: info@actionpark.co.uk
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 bake it make it Themed cooking
parties for children aged 3-13 just minutes from Brentwood and the A12. Visit www.bakeitmakeit.co.uk or call 07768 042226
Birthday parties at Belchamps
Any day between 9am and 5pm. Choose activities, catered or selfcatered and other great extras. 01702 562690 info@belchamps.org.uk
CSI Parties CSI parties for 7yrs +.
Be a crime scene investigator, collect evidence, find fingerprints and identify the offender. Call Peter 07974 940265, visit www.csi4aday.com or email pwhent@aol.com
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. See page 13 for more information 01708 688517 www.laser-mayhem.co.uk Little Scrummers Rugby Exciting
CREATIVE PARTIES
The Glazed Look Pottery painting
parties for small or large groups. Open 7 days a week 10am to 5pm. See ad on p27 for more details or call 01245 290300 or 07572 283 835 www.theglazedlook.co.uk
PARTY PLACES
Barleylands Parties: Celebrate your birthday at Barleylands. Choose from Kitchen Guru Parties, Farmyard Frolics Parties or exclusive hire of the Play Barn. 01268 290229 www.barleylands.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.
Colchester Zoo Parties to remember. Close encounters with animals. From as little as £9.99 per child. Find out more at www.colchesterzoo.org Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park A unique venue offering acres of birthday fun for everyone. One free adult with every birthday guest. 01245 321552 www.marshfarm.co.uk info@marshfarm.co.uk
PARTY SUPPLIES
The Partyman Shop For all your
party needs. Themed partyware, top children’s characters, lifesize cutouts, pre-filled partybags. 01268 661503 www.partyman.co.uk info@partyman.co.uk
tag rugby themed parties for 2-9yr olds with games, prizes and much more! 07738 591232 www.littlescrummers.com
Party Fun at Thriftwood Scout Campsite. Tailor-made parties to suit your group from as little as £3.75 per person. 01277 212784 www.thriftwood.org.uk Partyman World of Play Party includes food, play time, party host and party bags. Upgrade options: Laser Kombat, Entertainer, VIP Hire and more. www.partymanworld.co.uk 08450 345 111 info@partyman.co.uk Rope Runners High Ropes Adventure Park, Kelvedon Hatch. Open all year. Children from age 6. Parties available. 01277 888134 www.roperunners.co.uk SoundMagic Studios For details
of recording parties contact Steve or Victoria 01376 501313 or www.recordingparties.co.uk
24 • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Let’s Party
www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • 25
Get Active / Classified
ARCHERY
Action Park-Multiple Activity Centre, based on the A127 near Wickford, J29/ M25. Ages 6+. Catering for families, corporate functions, schools, groups, hen and stag and kids parties. Call 0844 683 0675 www.actionpark.co.uk email info@actionpark.co.uk
ART & CRAFT
Pottery Painting Studio Friendly family-run business, over 300 items, spacious studio. Open 7 days a week from 10am - 5pm. The Glazed Look 01245 290300 or 07758 036675 www.theglazedlook.co.uk
COOKING
bake it make it Cooking classes for children aged 2 and up just minutes from Brentwood and the A12. Visit www. bakeitmakeit.co.uk or call 07768 042226
DANCE
Dance classes in Hutton on a Saturday from 3 years+. Exams and shows 07817 983863 www.fusiondanceschool.co.uk Dance Act Sing with Chelmsford Theatretrain on a Saturday morning. For your free trial session call Sharon on 01277 224853 or email Chelmsford@theatretrain.co.uk Maldon Theatretrain Every Saturday in term-time from 2pm - 5pm. Plantation Hall, Colchester Road, Heybridge, Maldon, Essex, CM9 4AL. Centre Director: Mark Everard ATCL DipVCMED Free trial session. Tel: 01621 850274 email: maldon@theatretrain.co.uk Smart Steps School of Dance. Ballet, modern jazz, tap and street dance. Chelmsford. Mondays 4-6 pm Pilgrims Hatch - Friday’s 3.30 - 5.45pm Call Julie 07834 243991 Street Dance / Hip-hop for ages 7-21yrs. Saturdays & Tuesdays in Epping. Thursdays in Chelmsford for 3-21 years open in September. Classes are fast, fun-packed and focused. 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk
DRAMA/PERFORMING ARTS
Academy Arts Theatre School & Agency For ages 7-21yrs. Sats & Tues in Epping, Thurs in Chelmsford. Classes are fast, fun-packed and focused. 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk Academy Kids Saturday mornings in Epping. Classes for ages 3-7yrs. Play games, learn songs, dances and poems as an introduction to performing arts. 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk
Act Sing Dance with Chelmsford Theatretrain on a Saturday morning. For your free trial session call Sharon on 01277 224853 or email Chelmsford@theatretrain.co.uk
PLAY
Maldon Theatretrain Every Saturday in term-time from 2pm - 5pm. Plantation Hall, Colchester Road, Heybridge, Maldon, Essex, CM9 4AL. Centre Director: Mark Everard ATCL DipVCMED Free trial session. Tel: 01621 850274 email: maldon@theatretrain.co.uk
RUGBY
New Chelmsford Branch Academy Arts have now opened a new theatre school classes are Thursdays pm for 7- 21 years. Meadgate Church, Great Baddow. 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk
GYMNASTICS Gymnastics Free 1 hour gymnastics
trial for all age groups and abilities. Wed 5:30/6:30 & Sat 9:00/11:00 Gym Tots, birthday parties & holiday courses. Booking is essential. Email buba@eppingforestgymclub.com, 07767 167512 or visit www.eppingforestgymclub.com
HIGH ROPES
Rope Runners High Ropes Adventure Park, Kelvedon Hatch. Open all year. Children from age 6. Parties available. 01277 888134 www.roperunners.co.uk
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
Rope Runners High Ropes Adventure Park, Kelvedon Hatch. Open all year. Children from age 6. Parties available. 01277 888134 www.roperunners.co.uk Little Scrummers Rugby Exciting tag rugby for 2-6 year olds. Classes in Chelmsford, Maldon, South Woodham & Hawkwell. 07738 591232 www. littlescrummers.com
SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES
Belchamps Holiday Club Mon 27 - Fri 31.Oct Six activities each day, including inflatables, high ropes, assault course, caving and fencing. Bring a packed lunch. 9am- 4pm. £13. Belchamps Scout Activity Centre, Hockley, SS5 4JD. 01702 562690. info@belchamps.org.uk www.belchamps.org.uk Create & Play Morning Ghostly Ghouls 30 October 10am – 12pm. Ages 5 – 7. £10 2hrs of fun sticking, glueing and making your very own creatures, Queens Theatre, Hornchurch 01708 443333 Halloween Happenings 31 October 10am – 4pm ages 7 – 11. £20. A whole day crammed full of fun drama games and spooky craft activities. Queens Theatre, Hornchurch 01708 443333 Discover Tues–Fri 10am–5pm; Sat & Sun 11am–5pm; every day during school holidays. Story Trail, Garden, exhibition, events. Pre-booking advised www.discover.org.uk
Holiday Club at Thriftwood Campsite and Activity Centre with 16 activities and qualified instructors. Call 01277 212784 or visit www.thriftwood.org.uk Rope Runners High Ropes Adventure Park, Kelvedon Hatch. Open all year. Children from age 6. Parties available. 01277 888134 www.roperunners.co.uk
SINGING
Academy Arts Theatre School & Agency for ages 7-21yrs. Sats & Tues in Epping, Thurs in Chelmsford. Classes are fast, fun-packed and focused. 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk Maldon Theatretrain Every Saturday in term-time from 2pm-5pm. Plantation Hall, Colchester Road, Heybridge, Maldon, Essex, CM9 4AL. Centre Director: Mark Everard ATCL DipVCMED Free trial session Tel: 01621 850274 email: maldon@theatretrain.co.uk Sing Dance Act with Chelmsford Theatretrain on a Saturday morning. For your free trial session call Sharon on 01277 224853 or email Chelmsford@theatretrain.co.uk
SWIMMING
Little Otters Baby and pre-school swimming. For information call Jan 07919 414494 or Michelle 07919 414495 email: info@little-otters.com or www.little-otters.com Tina Franklin Swim School Chelmsford County High School. Mondays/Fridays after-school and Saturday mornings. All abilities. Tina Franklin 01245 265919 or 0782 869 1097 or email tinafranklin@blueyonder.co.uk
MULTI-ACTIVITY
After School Clubs After school activity clubs. Monday: climbing. Tuesday: fencing. Wednesday: archery. Thursday: different each week. For more information call 01702 562690 or email info@belchamps.org.uk Winger Sports Academy Dodgeball juniors and adults - all over Essex. Parties - all over Essex. Little Winger Football under 5’s in Billericay. More information 07912 879927 mike@wingersportacademy.com www.wingersportacademy.com
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Action Park Multiple Activity Centre based on the A127 near Wickford, J29/ M25. Ages 6+. Catering for families, corporate functions, schools, groups, hen, stag and kids parties. Call 0844 683 0675 www.actionpark.co.uk email info@actionpark.co.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 Natural Foundations Outdoor nature play sessions. Mud and sensory kitchens, water puzzle walls, den building around Essex. For details visit their website: www.naturalfoundations.co.uk. email: info@naturalfoundations.co.uk Rope Runners High Ropes Adventure Park, Kelvedon Hatch. Open all year. Children from age 6. Parties available. 01277 888134. www.roperunners.co.uk
26 • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
CHARITIES
Families InFocus (Essex)
Parent-led independent charity offering free specialist advice, information and support to any Essex family who has a child or young person with any disability or special need. 01245 353575 www.familiesinfocusessex.org.uk
Little Havens Hospice
Caring for children with life-limiting illnesses across Essex and supporting their families. View their website to see how you can help raise money for this great cause. www.havenshospices.org.uk
FARM SHOP
Lathcoats Farm
Lathcoats Farm’s Bee Shed coffee house serves mouthwatering light lunches, delicious cakes, great coffee, their own apple juice and a lovely cup of tea! Visit www.eapples.co.uk or facebook for full details.
FORENSICS
Csi4aday
Adults can be a Csi4aday at Chelmsford! Collect evidence from the crime scene. Singles or groups. It makes a fantastic day and team building experience. Call 07974 940265 or visit www.csi4aday.com
GIFTS
Lathcoats Farm Shop
Home-grown fruit and quality food from around your local region. See the website for more details www.eapples.co.uk or facebook for full details and opening times
The Meadows Shopping Centre
A large range of shops including BHS, The Works, Millies Cookies, Card Factory, Fat Face and many more in the heart of Chelmsford. www.themeadows.co.uk
SPEECH THERAPY
Building Blocks Speech and Language Therapy offers
assessment and support for children aged 2- 16 in the Essex area. Call 07813 968298 or www.building-blocks-slt.co.uk
WORK FROM HOME
Part/Full Time Opportunity
Earn £200 - £500+PM working from home. Fully-flexible, ongoing training and prospects. Text, “MORE INFO” and your name to 07806 615189
Get Active
www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • 27
Childcare
Seymour House Day Nursery School
Broomfield Road CM1 1RN 01245 492642 Leanne Cooper broomfield.road@seymourhouse.co.uk www.seymourhouse.co.uk
GREAT BADDOW Meadgate Nursery
c/o Meadgate Primary School Mascalls Way 07762 383390 Lauren Garwood / Carolyn Locke
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Seymour House Day Nursery School
230 Springfield Road CM2 6BP 01245 495455 Jess Poulter springfield.road@seymourhouse.co.uk www.seymourhouse.co.uk
Woodcroft Nursery School
Dorset Avenue 01245 473222 Mrs H. Roberts www.woodcroft-nur.essex.sch.uk
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s BASILDON
BRENTWOOD
Seymour House Day Nursery School
Hopscotch Day Nursery
Fobbing Farm Close 01268 464 422 Claire Hill-Burton basildon.hospital@seymourhouse.co.uk www.seymourhouse.co.uk
s
School Road Kelvedon Hatch 01277 372826 Jan Swift www.hopscotchdn.co.uk
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BILLERICAY Little Achievers Montessori Pre-School
St Mary Magdalene Church Hall Great Burstead 07759 837258 Ms Tracey Scarborough/ Ms Mary Ishmael maryishmael@yahoo.co.uk www.montessori-billericay.org
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BRAINTREE The Colourwheel Montessori Nursery
Denton Crescent Black Notley 01376 339139 Miss Sam Cottrill colourwheel@btconnect.com www.thecolourwheelbraintree.co.uk
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Jack and Jill Pre-School
Methodist Church Hall 124 Main Road, Broomfield 01245 442 448 07946 635068 Julie Ellingford jackandjillbroomfield@fsmail.net www.jackandjillpreschoolbroomfield. co.uk
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Seymour House Day Nursery School Lawn Lane CM1 7PP 01245 346 643 Carole Hedditch-Grey lawn.lane@seymourhouse.co.uk www.seymourhouse.co.uk
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Seymour House Day Nursery School
Broomfield Hospital CM1 7SS 01245 514 035 Jo Batson broomfield.hospital@seymourhouse.co.uk www.seymourhouse.co.uk
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GALLEYWOOD Jack And Jill Day Nursery
10 Victoria Court New Street 01245 505323 chelmsford@kiddicaru.com www.kiddicaru.com
5, Tree Works Baker’s Lane 01277 841424 Diane Middleton jackandjill.dn@gmail.com www.jackandjilldn.wix.com/ westhanningfield
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Rainbow Pre-School
The Stables Nursery
Kiddi Caru
Chelmer Village Hall 07901 886488 Sarah Smith www.rainbowps.co.uk
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Mararetting Road Galleywood 01245 348159 Susan Mann www.thestablesnursery.co.uk
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AGENCIES When calling any of the advertisers in the Childcare Providers section, please let them know that you found their number in KidAround.
Nutkin Nannies Essex
Professional nanny agency providing for all your childcare needs.including babysitting. Please call Sarah on 01376 529795 or visit www.nutkinnannies.co.uk info@nutkinnannies.co.uk
Sitters.co.uk
Britain’s favourite babysitters offering evening and daytime babysitters with professional childcare experience, even at short notice! Call 08447 367 367 or visit them at www.sitters.co.uk
Key to Childcare Provider Icons use these symbols to discover the type of care offered by each setting
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Childcare
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Childcare HARLOW St Edmund’s Montessori Pre-School
Matching Green Harlow CM17 0QB 01279 739206 Catherine Middlemas www.stedmundsmontessori.com
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Sunflower Montessori Kindergarten
Landsbury Suite Hutton Poplars 01277 201120 Naira Gendi www.sunflowermontessorikinder.co.uk info@sunflowermontessorikinder.co.uk
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LAINDON Willowfield Pre-School
Steepleview Community Hall Willowfield 07891 036905 Julie Baker willowfieldpreschool@gmail.com
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MALDON Buddies Children’s Centre Brickhouse Lane Poulton Close 01621 840631 Clair Windsor www.buddiespreschool.co.uk
Daisy Chain Nursery
Royal Court 01621 859991 Kim Lambert www.daisychain-nursery.com
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Viking Junior Academy
Wentworth Primary School Viking Road 07583 261354 Tanya Syder www.vikingacademy.co.uk
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NORTH FAMBRIDGE Deerlands Day Nursery
Ferry Road 01621 744041 Heidi Cook www.deerlandsdaynursery.co.uk
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ONGAR ABC Nursery, Pre-School & After School Club Stondon Road 01277 362211 igherghi2000@yahoo.co.uk www.abcnursery.org.uk
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Key to Childcare Provider Icons use these symbols to discover the type of care offered by each setting
s DAY CARE T SESSIONAL CARE y AFTER SCHOOL CLUB h CHILDMINDER l BREAKFAST CLUB * HOLIDAY CLUB H CRECHE
30 • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
ROXWELL Roxwell Preschool
Memorial Hall The Street 07970 750484 April Little www.roxwellpreschool.co.uk aprillittle123@btinternet.com
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SOUTH WOODHAM FERRERS Trinity St. Mary’s Pre-School Trinity Square 01245 321711 Mrs J. Hopkins www.tsmpreschool.com
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TILLINGHAM Tillingham Pre-School
Tillingham Village Hall Vicarage Lane CM0 7TW 01621 778803 tillpreschool@btinternet.com
T WICKFORD Seymour House Day Nursery School Salcott Crescent SS12 9NR Caroline Clark 01268 766 126 X@seymourhouse.co.uk www.seymourhouse.co.uk
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The Day Nursery
Church Road SS11 8SH 01268 769522 Jenna or Natalie admin@thedaynursery.org.uk www.thedaynursery.org.uk
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WRITTLE The Duckling Nursery
Lodge Road 07771 645270 Mrs S. Homer www.ducklingnursery.co.uk
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Writtle College Kiddi Caru Foxburrows Lane 01245 421341 writtlecollege@kiddicaru.com www.kiddicaru.com
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Writtle Green Preschool Longmeads House 12-14 Redwood Drive 07950 944612 Debbie Wright
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Birth & Beyond CLOTH NAPPIES
Essex Cloth Nappy Campaign
Find out more about cloth nappies and how to join the nappy network. Find out more by visiting www.essexcc.gov.uk
DANCE
Smart Steps School of Dance.
Ballet, modern jazz, tap and street dance for 3+. Chelmsford - Mondays 4-6pm Pilgrims Hatch - Fridays 3.30 - 5.45pm Call Julie 07834243991
KEEPSAKES
The Glazed Look
Pottery painting, hand and foot prints or capture those first works of art! See ad on page 41. 01245 290300 or 07758 036675 www.theglazedlook.co.uk
NURSERY OUTLET
Whites Farm Baby Barn Independent nursery retailer just outside Colchester offering quality customer service and a range of products for all your baby needs. 01787 228000 www.whitesfarmbabybarn.co.uk
PLACES TO VISIT
CLASSES
Academy Kids
Saturday mornings in Epping. Classes for ages 3-7yrs. Play games, learn songs, dances and poems as an introduction to performing arts. 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk
Baby Sensory
Award-winning baby development classes designed for babies from birth to 13 months. 2nd Oct & 4th Nov 10.30am £6 (adult ticket not required).Queens Theatre, Hornchurch. 01708 443333
Barleylands
Fun-on-the-Farm toddler group at Barleylands, Monday and Thursday 10am to 12pm, term-time only. 01268 290229 www.barleylands.co.uk
Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park Meet the animals, toddler indoor
play, sandpit area, mini tractor town, toddler bouncy pillow, meet a pet, children’s menu and more. Marsh Farm Road, South Woodham Ferrers, CM3 5WP. 01245 321552 www.marshfarm.co.uk info@marshfarm.co.uk
PRE/POST NATAL EXERCISE Little Otters Antenatal Aquayoga
For more information contact Chelmsford classes: Jan 07919 414494 jan@aqua4baby.co.uk or www.aqua4baby.co.uk. Wickford classes: Michelle 07919 414495 michelle@aquacalm4mums2b.co.uk www.aquacalm4mums2b.co.uk
READING
Bookstart
Sing some rhymes and look at books, and meet other babies and their grownups 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
SUPPORT
NCT
For antenatal classes, friendly advice, breastfeeding support and much more. 0870 444 8707 www.nct.org.uk
SWIMMING
ABC Baby Classes
Small, friendly and fun swimming classes for baby and preschool, in Brentwood & Wickford. Call Jo 07969 082818, email jo@abcbabyclasses.co.uk
KidAround reaches out to over 120,000 families across Essex. To advertise your pre-natal/baby & toddler business to a targeted audience, contact Kate Ellison on 01371 238071 or email kate.ellison@kidaround.biz www.kidaround.biz • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • 31
32 • Autumn 2014 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz