KidAround Magazine - Summer Issue - South Essex

News & Views

The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts is enrolling now across Essex!

The Pauline Quirke Academy is a weekend performing arts school that strives to deliver the best performing arts experience for 4 – 18 year olds.

Once split into appropriate age groups, students rotate between hour long sessions in Comedy and Drama, Musical Theatre and Film and Television, taught by specialists who we believe are outstanding in their field. These core modules teach a comprehensive range of skills which are useful in everyday life, not just a career in performing arts, whilst masterclasses allow students to explore more specialist lessons ranging from special effects to magic, beat boxing and circus.

PQA believe in rewarding and inspiring their students, so along with regular reports to monitor their progress, all students are offered group exams through Trinity College London - at no additional charge to parents.

As well as many in-house productions and showcases there are two stand-out highlights for all PQA students. The first is the chance to see their short film projects on the big screen of their local cinema, where they get to walk down the red-carpet just like the Hollywood stars. Some of the films even get selected for the PQA and Empire Cinema Film Festival, where winning films are shown on the big screen at the Empire Leicester Square in a glamorous event that students and parents will never forget! The second is the chance to take part in one of the annual PQA shows in the West End. Every year different academies join together to create a spectacular show at Her Majesty’s Theatre – home of The Phantom of the Opera.

Students who would like the opportunity to work professionally can also benefit from their exclusive agency Quirky Kidz. The student’s knowledge of screen acting techniques through their unique Film and Television module means that PQA students can approach TV and film auditions with confidence and many have gone on to win parts in high profile TV shows and film projects as a result.

Quirky Kidz have secured roles in productions such as; Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (West End), Les Miserables (West End), Matilda (West End), Fortitude (Sky), PAN (Warner Bros) and EastEnders… to name a few!

PQA is enrolling now across Essex. To book your free taster at PQA Chelmsford, PQA Brentwood,, PQA Woodford Green, PQA Romford, PQA Wickford and PQA Southend on Sea visit www.pqacademy.com or call 084567 32022

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 15• South Essex • 3

Contents This Summer 03 News & Views 10 School’s Out 08 Book Reviews

What’s On 17 Diary Dates

Seasonal Special

Welcome to

20 Great Days Out

Summer Hello Readers, Summer - my favourite season of all. With warmer days (we hope), barbecues in the garden with friends & family, and children out in their paddling pools or bouncing away on trampolines the air always seems full of laughter and squeals of excitement.

Although, as I write this, the black clouds are gathering outside (nothing like the Great British weather).

If you want to make the most of getting out this summer, check out the Great Days Out feature which is full of things to do, ideas of places to visit and includes some advice on how to make the best of the day out with the family.

Also, if you are like me and starting to realise that the holidays are just around the corner, worry not - our School’s Out feature has lots of activities including some stay overnight activity camps (sounds great fun for kids). We also have a special Tutor’s feature with local tutors to help your child achieve confidence and broaden their educational knowledge.

There’s lots to keep you busy, active and ‘in the know.’ Make sure you enter our fabulous competitions and check out our new look website www.kidaround.biz On a final note, let’s not forget all you Dads on 21st June. Make sure you get spoilt and have a great day with the family. Check out the Diary Dates section for some special Father’s Day events..

See you all soon!

Contact Us

(we are a friendly bunch) Publisher: Anna Hurley anna.hurley@kidaround.biz

Education Matters 30 Tutors Feature

Family Life 34 Let’s Party 36 Get Active

Early Years

37 Beauty, Bump & Baby 38 Childcare

All this plus:

Competitions: page 16

Sales Manager: Kate Ellison kate.ellison@kidaround.biz Listings Editor: Suzanne Gardner suzanne.gardner@kidaround.biz Social Media: Tina Read tina.read@kidaround.biz Tel: 01371 238071 Anna xx

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.

4 • Summer 15 • •South Winter 14/15 NorthEssex Essex• www.kidaround.biz • www.kidaround.biz

Help with organising a day out: page 20

Don’t forget to say you found it in KidAround Magazine, it really does help!

News & Views Healthy child lifestyle and weight management programmes rolled out across Essex

An innovative programme designed to support parents in Essex who are concerned that their children may be overweight is being rolled out across the whole of the county.

The free, six-week programme aims to work with families in a fun and informative way to help them maintain an active lifestyle and a healthy weight.

The programme will be delivered by healthcare provider Anglian Community Enterprise (ACE), which has been successfully running the scheme throughout Tendring and Colchester districts for the past eight years. Now health bosses at Essex County Council have commissioned ACE to set up similar programmes throughout Essex.

ACE is an award-winning social enterprise which provides more than 40 NHS community healthcare services in Essex and specialises in health and well-being services.

Project Leader for Child and Young Persons Weight Management at ACE, Kate French, said the programme combines fun, physical activities for children, with information sessions for their parents.

Kate said: “In our experience we have found that the best way to get people involved in the programme is to make it fun and engaging for everyone.”

“The programme takes place over a six-week period where we meet for an hour-long session, once a week.

Typically the children will join one group where they will take part in a number of fun, physical activities.

“Meanwhile, we get the parents involved in education sessions, where they will learn and discuss a range of subjects from the importance of physical exercise and regular eating patterns to how to interpret food labels and serve healthy portion sizes.”

There are programmes aimed at children of different ages – one is tailored for children of primary school age while another is focussed on the needs of young people and teenagers of secondary school age.

Kate continued: “Towards the end of the session we bring the children and parents all together again and set them a challenge for that week. These goals are set individually and tailored for each family.

“If they have achieved their goal when we meet the next week, they will receive a small reward. Larger rewards will be given to people who attend the majority of sessions and make good progress over the whole programme.”

Kate said the programmes are important because an awareness of what makes a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Forming healthy habits and engaging the whole family can also help everyone get to a healthier weight and enjoy life more.

She added: “The sessions are free and people have found them really helpful in the past. We want to encourage as many people as possible to get in touch and to get involved.”

For more information and to find a programme near you call 0800 022 4224 or email acecic.lifestylesforchildren@nhs.net

www.kidaround.biz •Summer 15 • South Essex • 5

News & Views

Beanstalk Children’s Therapy

Beanstalk Children’s Therapy is an established independent therapy provider is Essex, having just celebrated its 7th year in business. Lara Breaker-Rolfe (Director & Advanced Paediatric Occupational Therapist) has been working with children for ver 12 years and has Masters level training in Sensory integration. The team comprises highly qualified and experienced Occupational Therapists and Speech and Language Therapists, who offer services to children and young people in clinic, at home or in school. They offer new and exciting treatment approaches, including Sensory Integration Therapy and Therapeutic Listening™ programs. Their state-of-the-art clinic facilities are fully equipped with a variety of equipment, including swings, trampolines and crash pads, climbing equipment, scooter boards and more. Equipment is adjustable to each child’s size and children have free access to a quiet space if needed. They work closely with parents and teachers, providing education and support during all sessions.

For more information, visit their website at... www.beanstalktherapy.co.uk Photographs by Jo Cope Photography

Do you have a child with additional educational needs and /or disabilities (SEND)?

It can be highly confusing and frustrating for a parent and carer trying to find the necessary extra support for a child who displays learning, emotional and/ or physical difficulties.

Where do I look for appropriate support?

I have a child on the Autistic spectrum, who struggled to cope with both the national curriculum and his peers. The local authorities wanted to keep him in mainstream education even though it was clear that it was not a suitable setting for him. I was referred by my GP to the Child and Family Services, who took a year to provide a diagnosis of Autism. In the meantime I applied for a Statement of Educational Needs (now replaced by the EHC plan Sept 2014). An SEN would mean that the Local Authority would be legally bound to provide extra provision for my child. Initially my application was rejected.

However, on receipt of a formal independent diagnosis of Autism, my appeal was accepted. Today, my child attends a school for children with moderate learning difficulties; he is confident and articulate and will be taking 5 GCSEs in Year 11. I am afraid that the picture may have been very different if I had given up at the first hurdle during the SEND process.

The legal definition of SEND: • A child or young person who has a learning difficulty or disability which calls for special educational provision to be made for him or her.

• A child or young person who has a significantly greater difficulty in learning than the majority of others of the same age in compulsory education • A child or young person who has a disability which prevents or hinders him or her from making use of facilities of a kind generally provided for others of the same age in mainstream schools or mainstream post-16 institutions If your child meets any of the above criteria for SEND then you may apply for an EHC (Education Health and Care) plan.

Steps towards an EHC Plan Day one - Request from your Local Authority an EHC needs assessment Weeks 1- 6 – Your Local Authority has 6 weeks to decide whether your child fulfils the SEND criteria for an EHC assessment.

6 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Weeks 4-6 - Local Authority conducts an EHC needs assessment. The assessment includes seeking information and views from people who work with your child, such as class teachers, doctors and educational psychologists.

Weeks 6 - 16 – Local Authority decides whether an EHC plan is needed Weeks 16- 20 – Local Authority prepares an EHC plan. You will be given 15 days to comment on the draft and you can ask for a meeting to discuss it if you want one.

You have the right to challenge your Local Authority’s decision not to assess, or if you disagree with the terms of the EHC plan.

There are many organisations that can support your application for an EHC plan: TCALM Solutions Ltd (SEND Mediation and Advocacy) CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) Families in Focus Written by Deborah Beharie (QTS, PCGE IT, BSc Hons IT, RSPP Accredited Mediator) 0208 720 9205 TCALM Solutions Ltd www.tcalmsolutionsltd.co.uk/adr---mediation.html

News & Views

Help For Asthmatic Children

Asthma affects 1 in 11 children in the UK. Recent data shows that emergency hospital admissions in children with asthma are increasing and the British Lung Foundation has highlighted the importance of age-appropriate information to help these children and their parents manage their condition effectively. Monkey Wellbeing have developed a storybook called ‘Monkey Has an Asthma Attack’ and Activity Guide called ‘Monkey Has Asthma’.

Developed by a school teacher and specialist asthma doctors and nurses, these resources aim to explain asthma to children and their parents in an engaging, understandable and age appropriate way. The Activity Guide also includes a Symptom Diary, Asthma Wheeze Plan and a ‘What to do in an Emergency’ checklist.

Donna Brocklesby, a mother of two from Aylesbury, has a son who really disliked his asthma medication – to the extent that they would often end up in A&E with him extremely traumatised. However, since using the ‘Monkey Has an Asthma Attack’ book and activity guide, her son can point to the scale of different monkey faces on his Asthma Plan to show her exactly how unwell he’s feeling. Because in the storybook Monkey is brave when being treated for his asthma, her son responds really well when he says he needs to be brave like Monkey. She says that he is now so much calmer and less resistant to his medication.

Selected Monkey Wellbeing resources are now used in NHS hospitals across the UK. The full range of resources is available from www.monkeywellbeing.com. Resources currently available include: Monkey Has An Asthma Attack, Monkey Has an Operation, Monkey Has a Blood Test, Monkey Goes to School, Monkey Visits Grandpa In the Hospital, Monkey Has an Injection, Monkey’s Guide to Healthy Living and NHS Services, Monkey Visits the Emergency Department, Monkey Puppet, NHS Explorer’s sticker sets.

London Southend – the simply easier airport more and more travellers are choosing With a terminal just 100 paces from the train platform and a maximum 4-minute waiting time to pass through security, it’s no wonder more than 1 million people chose to fly from London’s newest airport in 2014. London Southend Airport has been growing in popularity with passengers who use it time and time again after discovering its unique simplicity, speed and superb service – but since scooping the ‘Best Airport in Britain’ award from Which? Magazine two years running (2013 & 2014), the airport has really been put on the map. Over £120 million has been invested in London Southend Airport by owner Stobart Group since it was acquired in 2008, in order to create a brand new, ‘simply easier’ experience from the ground up. The new light, modern and airy fly through terminal lies directly opposite the new railway station and is connected by a wide, covered walkway. The train station offers up to eight services per hour to and from London - a seamless link between the airport and Liverpool Street in the heart of the City of London in just 53 minutes.

Passengers flying into London Southend with hand luggage only are able to process through to the train station platform in just 15 minutes from the aircraft doors opening (or 30 minutes with checked luggage). If you want to stay overnight before or after your trip, then just 5 minutes’ walk from the terminal stands the 4-star Holiday Inn London Southend Airport – which is also owned and operated by the Stobart Group. If you are driving then there is ample, reasonably priced Long and Short Stay parking, all located directly around the terminal. London Southend Airport currently has departures each week with easyJet to Amsterdam, Alicante, Barcelona, Berlin, Faro, Geneva, Ibiza, Jersey, Malaga, Majorca, Tenerife and Venice, with a new route to Mahon in Menorca starting on 26 June. Flybe, operated by Stobart Air, has departures from London Southend to Rennes, Groningen, Munster Osnabruck and Caen Normandie. There are also flights to Bern with SkyWork Airlines – plus on 13 December you can take off with Transun to see Santa in his Lapland homeland.

For more information and the latest news about London Southend Airport, simply visit www.southendairport.com

www.kidaround.biz •Summer 15 • South Essex • 7

News & Views

Dates for your diary 1st – 5th June – Bike to School Week Encourage children to travel to school on their bikes. Research shows that as little as 15 minutes of activity a day can halve a child’s risk of becoming obese. Not only will cycling kick-start a new exercise routine, it will also decrease busy traffic on school roads. It also helps the environment! Find out more on www.sustrans.org.uk Friday 5th June – World Environment Day This day aims to encourage worldwide awareness and action for the environment. The theme this year is “Seven Billion Dreams. One Planet. Consume with Care.” The well-being of the environment depends upon the responsible management of our planet’s natural resources. If we all contribute even just a little bit, it will help to make a difference. Find out more on www.unep.org/wed 13th – 21st June – Children’s Art Week This programme gives thousands of children and young people the opportunity to experience the visual arts together with their parents, teachers and carers, and get involved with a wide range of practical art activities with artists and makers.

Events can take place in galleries, arts centres, museums, libraries, schools, and community and youth centres. Check out the website www.childrensartweek.org.uk to find out what is going on near you.

Sunday 21st June - Father’s Day Make sure you spoil your dad on Father’s Day. You could make a card or a cake – or breakfast in bed! Whatever you decide to do, it will make him feel special!

Sunday 2nd Aug – International Friendship Day International Friendship Day aims to foster friendships and bridge the gaps between race, colour, religion and other factors which prevent people from enjoying friendship with one another. Let your friends know how much you appreciate them - with a card, a letter, a phone call, an email or a text.

And why not smile at everyone you meet today – you never know, they may be your new best friend!

Wednesday 5th Aug - Playday: The national day for play On Playday thousands of children and their families get out to play at hundreds of community events across the UK. From small-scale events to thousands of children taking over Trafalgar Square – Playday is celebrated by each community in a way that suits them. As well as a celebration of children’s right to play, Playday is a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives. To find events near you and how you can take part visit www.playday.org.uk 10th – 13th September – Heritage Open Days More than 4000 buildings that are usually closed or charge for admission will open their doors for free during Heritage Open Days. From castles and medieval cottages, to battlefield walks and Buddhist temples. For a full list of places open visit the Heritage Open Days website.

Sunday 13th Sept – Roald Dahl Day The official Roald Dahl Day takes place every year on 13th Sept – on the birthday of the world’s No1 storyteller. Why not read one of his fun and imaginative books or watch one of the movies. You could also take the opportunity to raise money for Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, which aims to make the lives of sick children better. www.roalddahl.com/charity

Book reviews by local children Wild! Bedtime by Courtney Dicmas RRP: £4.99 My son George and I really enjoyed reading Wild! Bedtime. The illustrations are lovely and the colours muted so it’s a great book to read before bed. George loved naming all the different animals and the sounds they make and couldn’t wait to turn each page to see which animal was next. The rhyming narrative effectively teaches about the bedtime routine, and the amount of text was just right for his age. George’s four year old brother enjoyed it too.

Reviewed by George and his mum, Victoria

Sparky’s Bad Spell By Ruby Nash RRP £5.99 This book is about a boy called Carl and his dog Sparky. They are trying to learn magic at an academy of witches and wizards, but not doing very well.

There is also an evil witch, who rides a scary creature, and tries to ruin the school. The head teacher is worried that the school will be shut. In the end, Sparky saves the day. This book taught me that we can do magical things if we try really hard.

Reviewed by Phoebe, aged 7

Wildlife Jack, I want to fly! By Ed Kellie RRP £6.99 When the book arrived through the post addressed to James it only added to the excitement for him. His first words on opening the envelope were “wow”.

The book was a vibrant blue that really caught his attention, he then noticed it was about birds and flying so wanted to read it straight away. (James is a big fan of angry birds & pretending to fly so the perfect book for him, whilst being educational).We sat and read the book together, with him pointing out all the different birds. The book is a nice mix of cartoon illustrations and real photographs which I think really help to make an actual association to the world around us and in particular birds. Whilst being a educational book it’s also lots of fun, what child wouldn’t want to try to learn to fly?

Reviewed by James Norey aged 3 8 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Secret Agent Mummy: The Cleopatra Case By Steve Cole RRP: £5.99 This book is about a boy called Niall and his secret agent mummy friend Sam and they go on an adventure to ancient Egypt to find Cleopatra. I really enjoyed reading this book as it has lots of funny things happen. My favourite chapter is about the cat as he is really clumsy, it really made me laugh. My favourite character is Mumbum-mainly because his name makes me laugh too. I would really like to read the first book as it tells you about how Niall and Sam meet.

Reviewed by Noah, Aged 7

The SongBird Café Girls: Mollie Cinnamon is not a cupcake

By Sarah Webb £5.99 As soon as I started getting into the book I knew it would be a brilliant story. I enjoyed it very much because of the exciting plot and how Mollie gets through her struggles and problems at school. The book is about Mollie Cinnamon who gets taken to Little Bird Island while her TV-Presenter Mum (Flora) is filming. She stays with her Nan until her Mum returns. Mollie struggles through ups and downs at home, school and The SongBird Café. The café is put at risk so Mollie needs to help save it while trying to see to her Great-Nan at hospital. Sarah Webb grabs the attention of young readers using exciting and creative characters and language. My favourite character is Bonny because even though she’s friends with Lauren, the bully, she still tries to stick up for Mollie. I would recommend this book to children from the age of 10-12.

Reviewed by Niamh Cattanach

Free summer fun ahoy!

Dive into summer at the intu Lakeside Kids’ Club, with weeks of free family fun from Saturday 1st – Sunday 30th August 2015. They’ll keep your little ones entertained in the amazing Fab Lab, with storytelling, crafts, games and adventures.

To make sure you don’t miss out, sign up to their Kids’ Club. Membership is totally free and your little ones will receive a pack stuffed full of goodies when they join, including an activity book, pencils, stickers and more!

Plus you’ll be delighted with their exclusive family offers and discounts for their stores and restaurants.

And that’s not all. When you sign up, you’ll be the first to hear about all the exciting events they’ve got planned for the year ahead – plus priority booking for their magical Santa’s grotto.

There’s loads to love at intu Lakeside – it’s the perfect destination for a family day out!

After a trip to the Kids’ Club why not visit Hamleys, the finest toyshop in the world? Or catch the latest family blockbuster in their Vue cinema.

End your day with something yummy and pop by The Eatery on Level 3. After their £9M refurbishment, the swish new food court has lots of great places to eat and drink, from stomach busting burgers to posh pastries for mum. And don’t forget The Boardwalk, with 11 lovely restaurants overlooking the lake.

Sign up to their FREE Kids’ Club and find out more about what’s on at intu.co.uk/lakeside

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 15• South Essex • 9

Talent search to award prestigious scholarship for Razzamataz Rayleigh.

Razzamataz Rayleigh is delighted to announce that the scholarship auditions in association with The Stage newspaper are now officially open.

Children and young people living in the area are urged to apply as soon as possible to win a scholarship that will entitle them to attend Razzamataz Rayleigh free for a whole year, starting from the autumn term.

Previous winners from Razzamataz schools across the UK have appeared in professional productions and have gone on to gain places at prestigious colleges to further their performing arts training.

It doesn’t matter whether they have been attending Razzamataz for years or if they have never tried performing arts classes before; the scholarships are open to all children from the ages of 8 to 16.

To ensure as many youngsters as possible can enter, Razzamataz has created a scholarship system where students and potential students film a short demo of no more than two minutes long showing themselves performing either a musical theatre song and dance, commercial dance (hip hop or street), pop song, drama improvisation or scripted drama piece.

The demo does not have to be professionally filmed. Applicants will also complete a short application form detailing why they would like to take this opportunity.

The deadline for audition submissions is July 31st 2015. Apply directly to Razzamataz Rayleigh by calling 07787 570760 / 01268 683512 or emailing rayleighwest@razzamataz.co.uk. Alternatively, apply online at http://www.razzamataz.co.uk/what-we-do/the-stage-scholarship/

Summer Taken Care Of!

The Stables Daycare Nursery has been open since 1993. They are situated in a wonderful country setting where they cater for children from 3 months to 5 years in the main Nursery, and a holiday club which caters for children of school age until they are maybe 10 or 11.

Offering a loving, stimulating environment with Qualified staff, all DBS checked .

The Nursery follows the EYFS which prepares their children for School.

Great fun is had by one and all , please go along and see for yourself.

The Stables Nursery, Margaretting Road, Galleywood, Essex CM2 8TS Telephone: 01245 348159

10 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

School’s Out All inclusive Summer Camp at Stubbers Adventure Centre

Stubbers offer a superb programme of holiday activities for 7 to 16 year olds.

These exciting activity day and week options run during weekdays in all school holidays.

You can drop off after 8.30 and pick up before 6pm.

There are activity options to suit everyone, and a flexible programme to ensure that everyone will enjoy themselves.

Kids are never in a hurry to leave at the end of the day and now they don’t have to!

Book them in for the Sleepover and choose an activity programme from: Water sports week, Commando Week or Multi Activity Week, then the fun continues with extra evening activities including Beach Party, Camp fire and Movie night.

Accommodation for the week is in bunkhouse tents with 8 children per tent in bunk beds. Staff stay overnight with the group.

Holiday Activity Manager, Andy Burgin, said “We have some great evening activities lined up and I know the children will love it! There are limited places on the sleepover so I suggest parents book early”.

For the sleepover, children need to be aged between 9 and 16. All meals and activities are included in the sleepover price. Children will require a sleeping bag and pillow.

Stubbers Adventure Centre has the biggest variety of on site adventure activities in the South East. With a picturesque 130 acres of adventure space, including 3 lakes, you can be certain of having a great time whatever your interest.

And if you are thinking that the kids have all the fun and would like to try something adventurous yourself then Stubbers is definitely the place for you.

Join the extremely popular Bank Holiday “Parents Go Free” days running on all Bank Holidays throughout the year and you will have 4 top class activity sessions in an excellent day.

Check out Stubbers website www.stubbers.co.uk for more details.

Stubbers is an amazing outdoor adventure park for youngsters and adults alike,. If you’re looking to get in touch with the great outdoors and have some serious fun, get in touch now!

As a registered charity and not for profit organisation they rely on your support, and wouldn’t be there without you!

Stubbers Adventure Centre, Ockendon Road, Upminster, Essex, RM14 2TY Tel: 01708 224753 Fax: 01708 224500 Web: www.stubbers.co.uk Email: info@stubbers.co.uk Registered Charity Number 1080941

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 15• South Essex • 11

School’s Out Theatretrain: Stage School & Agency

Theatretrain is an established professional part time theatre school for young people between the ages of 3 – 18 years, providing exciting and fun packed weekly classes in singing, dancing and acting.

With the backing of several famous patrons such as Catherine Tate, Lucy Davies and Hollywood greats, Sir Derek Jacobi KBE and Alfred Molina - Theatretrain provides classes that are fun; they build confidence and develop children’s imagination, as well as providing them with excellent training in all three disciplines.

Theatretrain offers a free trial session and mindful of the economic times we live in, classes are realistically priced for a three hour session with siblings being offered a 50% reduction in fees. Fee reductions are also offered to families on benefits, making Theatretrain affordable to most families.

Theatretrain is inclusive of all abilities and all of their pupils are offered the chance to perform in either a local show or national show. Recent productions have been performed at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, London Palladium, Royal Albert Hall and Sadlers Wells.

In addition to excellent performing arts training and excellent performance opportunities, Theatretrain is also excited to announce that they have now joined forces with Goldman’s Management, a specialist young people’s agency. Their pupils can now be considered for professional representation with a view of engaging in professional work in the fields of TV, Film, Theatre, Musical Theatre and Commercials.

Maldon Theatretrain’s summer workshop dates are yet to be confirmed, therefore call Mark on 01621 850274 for more information.

For more information please go to www.theatretrain.co.uk or to book your free trial session call 01277 224853 and speak to Sharon (Chelmsford Centre) or 01621 850274 to speak to Mark (Maldon Centre) For their excellent free Classes (TT Tinies) for 3 year olds and classes for 4 & 5 year olds (TT Minis) please see advert on page 37.

12 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Phoenix Out Of School & Holiday Club

The Before School Club opens at 7.30am. The children enjoy breakfast and a variety of activities until they are dropped off at school. The After School Club runs from school pickups to 6.00pm, where once again there will be a variety of activities on offer: opportunities to complete homework, socialise with friends, relax and enjoy Forest School activities as well as ending the day with a home cooked meal.

The Club accommodates up to 26 children within a homely environment consisting of a variety of rooms with varying activities, as well as a large garden facility.

The Holiday Club operates during all school holidays including half terms (with the exception of the Christmas closure) between the hours of 8.00am to 5.00pm (additional early starts and late finishes available upon request).

A range of activities and theme days will be on offer and Forest School sessions will also be incorporated. The children enjoy a home cooked menu.

The Forest School sessions encourages the use of natural materials in the outdoor environment where children can explore and construct in an imaginative way. 5 qualified Forest School leaders plan each session around the individual needs of the group. Activities that may be included are Low Level Climbing; mini beast hunts; natural crafts i.e. making dream catchers from willow, collages from natural materials, mud sculptures; using tools; weaving; developing knowledge of trees and plants; shelter building and knot tying.

What the children say about the Club: “I was nervous about coming but it feels like I’ve been here a year!”

“I can’t wait to go back!”

“It feels like a home away from home” “The food is amazing!”

To find out more about Phoenix Out Of School Holiday Club Call 01277 260893

School’s Out

How to make shopping fun for the whole family this summer

Finally, it seems that summer has arrived. With long sunny evenings, kids breaking up from school and ice pops chilling in the freezer, it’s time to relax and enjoy some quality family time.

Clacton Factory Outlet pride themselves on being an ideal shopping destination for the whole family, so let’s look why.

Easy to find We’ve all been there, ‘debating’ left or right, you continue down a long road and you know you should’ve seen it by now but you don’t want to turn around, just in case, and you end up in the middle of a one way system that will take you hours to get out of. Kids getting impatient “Are we nearly there?” With Clacton Factory Outlet being easy to find you won’t need to worry.

Baby changing and feeding areas While being able to change your baby one handed in a sink while balancing an overflowing bag of nappies and wet wipes is a life skill that is needed sometimes, it is not one you will have to use here. There are excellent facilities for changing and feeding your little ones.

Free kids play area Tire the kids out or bribe them for good behaviour! Whatever you decide, it’s free, so let the kids go wild while you sip on your well-earned latte from one of their marvellous eating and drinking options.

Free parking for up to 1000 cars A day out shopping can be hard enough without having to worry about the cost of parking. Don’t worry about it, it’s free.

Free wheelchair loan Available for those who get tired quickly or have literally, ‘shopped until they dropped’. Take advantage of the free wheelchairs, no racing!

Full disabled access to all stores Why lend wheelchairs if you can’t go anywhere in them? Clacton Factory Outlet is fully pedestrianised and designed to be easy to get around for wheelchair users with full store access.

Rewarding Loyalty With up to 60% off high street prices all year round, why wouldn’t you want to go back? A Premier Card loyalty scheme allows you to enjoy further discounts and special offers. Ask in the information centre or take a look at the website for details, www.clactonfactoryoutlet.com.

This is a small taster of what’s planned during the summer of fun at Clacton Factory Outlet. Follow them on Facebook to be kept up to date with the events throughout the year.

• A visit from Rex the Dinosaur – 11th July • Pirate fun day – 24th July • Super Hero fancy dress competition – 6th August • Meet Safari Sam – 15th August • PLUS, loads of other entertainment throughout the summer.

For more information and to see all events planned, visit: www.clactonfactoryoutlet.com www.kidaround.biz •Summer 15 • South Essex • 13

School’s Out Act, Sing, Dance & Fun! Hutton Mount, Shenfield & Brentwood

The Debut School of Performing Arts runs its exciting classes for 3 - 15s and Debut Theatre Company runs for 16-21 year olds. Debut offers professional, fun training in a caring environment.

There are separate Saturday, Monday and Wednesday classes.

Debut is all about enjoying and experiencing the arts first hand – students gain a headstart that will serve them well now and in the future.

Drama on Hutton Mount! Debuts new school has free trials! Limited places, please book. www.debutschool.co.uk 01277 260771 Established 2002

Deerlands Day Nursery & Viking Academy-

there to meet your childcare needs.

For children 6 mths to 5 years Deerlands Day Nursery can offer you and your child high quality care in an idyllic purpose-built location. With small groups, large outdoor play areas and home cooked meals, they could be the nursery for you.

If you are looking for sessional childcare for your 2 to 5 year olds then Viking Junior Academy can help. They offer 2 ½ to 5 hour sessions daily, term time only. In the school holidays Viking can offer 4 to 11 year olds fun full-day care.

Please see below for more information or contact: Deerlands Nursery on 01621 744041

14 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Brentwood Ski & Snowboard Centre is a unique and exciting family venue that is open all year round.

Overlooking more than 54 acres of beautiful scenic woodland, Brentwood Ski & Snowboard Centre offers an exciting variety of snowsports to suit all ability levels.

Whether you are looking to just have some fun, brush up on your skills or prepare yourself for a winter holiday, they are the best - the easiest to get to and the most affordable choice available in the South East. The Centre is open to everyone - and if you can already ski or snowboard you can attend without the need to book; alternatively if you are a beginner and would like to give it a try, they offer a range of one off lessons as well as courses to get you started.

The summer months are the perfect time to try the many activities the Centre has to offer, from skiing or snowboarding lessons for first timers, to skiing & tubing birthday parties, or getting your children to learn some new skills on one of their multi-activity days during the summer holidays and more.

Whether your children are first timers or experienced users, Brentwood Ski & Snowboard Centre is the perfect place for having fun, learning new skills and making new friends, all under the watchful supervision of one of their fully qualified coaches.

Activities range from Recreational Skiing & Snowboarding, Snowblading, Tubing, Children’s Ski & Tubing Parties, Children’s Mornings, Snowsports Camps, Private Lessons, a Race Club and more.

Brentwood Ski & Snowboard Centre - Your one-stop to all your Snowsports needs! Contact 01277 211994 or email: info@brentwoodskicentre.co.uk

School’s Out Barracudas Activity Day Camps “Giving every child such an amazing experience they can’t wait to come back!”

• Superb summer camps at 34 locations!

• Fantastic range of activities for 4½-16 years • The best qualified staff:child ratios of any comparable provider • Extended hours from 8am-6pm • A brilliant childcare option for working parents!

Barracudas, the UK’s No1 children’s activity camp offers peace of mind for working parents during the summer holidays. They’ve been rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted more times and more consistently than any other activity day camp provider and because they’re registered with Ofsted you have the added bonus of using your childcare vouchers as payment!

After a successful 2014 they are extremely excited to kick off 2015 with 34 locations operating this year. With action-packed programmes and a choice of varied activities including archery, swimming, fencing, motor sports, arts & crafts, dance & drama, they have plenty to keep your children entertained! As well as all the above activities they have fantastic roaming equipment that visits camps including their climbing wall, bungee run and giant inflatable assault course.

Where will you play…?

Chelmsford County High School 27th July – 21st August Chigwell School 27th July – 28th August Brentwood County High 27th July – 21st August

Hutton Manor 27th July – 28th August Woodford County High School 27th July – 21st August

Barracudas popular camps sell out fast. To secure your child’s place call them on 0845 123 5299 or visit www.barracudas.co.uk

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 15• South Essex • 15

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16 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Diary Dates BASILDON Sun 5 July 1940s Open Day Traditional games, vintage teas and cakes, ration sweet shop, vintage displays, vehicles and music, 1940s costume competition, Big Lunch picnic, BBQ and bar. The Haven Museum will also be open all day to offer a unique glimpse into 1940s life. 11am - 4pm. £3 per adult, £2 per child (under 16).

Langdon Visitor Centre, SS16 6EJ www.essexwt.org.uk Tue 28 July Secret Spies Are you ready to take on a secret spy mission?! Follow the trail, crack the code and complete the challenges to claim your prize and certificate. 10am - 4pm. £2. Langdon Visitor Centre, SS16 6EJ www.essexwt.org.uk Wed 5 Aug Dinosaur Detectives Discover which dinosaur has been spotted roaming here at Langdon!

Family Nature Day for accompanied children age 3-6 yrs. 10am - 12pm. £5.

Langdon Visitor Centre, SS16 6EJ www.essexwt.org.uk BE Thur 13 Aug No-Cook Cooking Create and taste a selection of sweets and treats, all made without the use of a cooker. Who knew you could make ice cream in a plastic bag?!. Family Nature Day for accompanied children age 5+. 10am - 12pm. £5. Langdon Visitor Centre, SS16 6EJ www.essexwt.org.uk BE Fri 21 Aug Drop in History Detectives Take a trip back in time to become a history spy! Follow the trail and try some time travel challenges. Suitable all ages. 10am - 4pm. £2. Langdon Visitor Centre, SS16 6EJ www.essexwt.org.uk Wed 26 Aug Come and Play – Paper Kites Make and fly simple paper kites. Suitable all ages. 1-4pm. £2. Langdon Visitor Centre, SS16 6EJ www.essexwt.org.uk

BILLERICAY Sun 7 June Open Farm Sunday Follow a special field to fork trail around the Farm Park. (Children come free when they say the special secret password – see website for details). 10am to 5pm. Adults £11.50 or save 10% online.

Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk Sat 13 June Mum2mum Market Nearly New Sale 10am-12pm. Adult entry £2, children free. Mayflower High School, Stock Road, CM12 0RT. Sun 21 June Dads Go Free!

Free entry for dads accompanied by a paying child. Get voucher online.

10am to 5pm. Adults £11.50, Children £10.50, under 2s free. Save 10% online.

Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk

Mon 3 – Fri 7 Aug Treasure Hunter Treasure hunts plus discover more explorer fun. 10am to 5pm. Adults £11.50, Children £10.50, under 2s free.

Save 10% online. Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk Mon 10 – Fri 14 Aug Birds & Bees Week Learn about buzzing bees and birds of prey. Join bee talks, try honey tasting, pot your own seeds. 10am to 5pm.

Adults £11.50, Children £10.50, under 2s free. Save 10% online. Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk Mon 17 – Fri 21 Aug Deadly Creatures Week Meet some of nature’s amazing creatures including resident birds of prey and reptiles, plus special activities.

10am to 5pm. Adults £11.50, Children £10.50, under 2s free. Save 10% online.

Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk Mon 24 – Fri 28 Aug Crazy Entertainer Week Skittleman the children’s party entertainer at intervals throughout the day. 10am to 5pm. Adults £11.50, Children £10.50, under 2s free. Save 10% online. Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk Mon 31 Aug – Fri 4 Sept Ultimate Inflatables Week Including bouncy castles, slides and toddler soft play. 10am to 5pm. Adults £11.50, Children £10.50, under 2s free.

Save 10% online. Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk. www.barleylands.co.uk

CHELMSFORD Sun 14 June Family Fun Day Celebrate Danbury Pre-School’s 50th anniversary. Bouncy castles, zorbing, face painting, traditional stalls, tea and cakes, school performances and much more. 12-4pm. Dawson’s Field, Danbury Sports Hall Danbury CM3 4NQ. www.danburypreschool.org.uk Free Event Sat 11 & Sun 12 July Essex Regiment Fun Weekend Watch re-enactments and find out what it was like being a soldier in wartime.

Chelmsford Museum, CM2 9AQ. 01245 605700. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums Free Event Sat 11 July Mum2mum Market Nearly New Sale 2-4pm. Adult entry £2, children free.

Hylands School, Hatfield Grove, CM1 3DF Sat 25 July Make It At The Museum Pottery, craft and sculpture activities.

Free admission, small charge for activities. Chelmsford Museum, CM2 9AQ. 01245 605700. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums Wed 29 July Police Peg Officers Use dolly pegs to create a character.

Suitable all ages. 10am – 4pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum

Wed 29 July Wednesday Wonders Seaside crafts workshop. £2. Chelmsford Museum, CM2 9AQ. 01245 605700. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums Wed 5 & Thur 6 Aug Wednesday Wonders Decorate a flowerpot, and plant a seed with the Tudor Nun. £5 adult and child, extra children £3. Chelmsford Museum, CM2 9AQ. 01245 605700. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums Wed 5 Aug An Artist’s Impression Police Artist Chris Macintosh will demonstrate how to draw faces from just a description.

Age: 7yrs+. 11am - 1pm / 2 - 4pm. £2.

Essex Police Museum, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum BE Wed 12 & Thur 13 Aug Wednesday Wonders Workshop featuring gliders and fans. £5 adult and child, extra children £3.Chelmsford Museum, CM2 9AQ. 01245 605700. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums

BRENTWOOD Fri 10 July Bat Walk Look for bats using a bat detector.

Families. 8-9.30pm. £6/person. Adult accompaniment required. Please bring a torch and dress warm. Bring a bat detector if you have one. Weald Country Park, CM14 5QS. 01277 261343.

Sat 1 - Mon 31 Aug Summer Survival Self Guided Trail Follow clues and solve puzzles on a self guided trail. Plus den building and leaf raft making. Age: 3-12yrs. 10am-4pm. £3 per trail. Weald Country Park, CM14 5QS. 01277 261343.

Sat 8 Aug Farm Day Meet sheep, goats, ponies rabbits, snakes and geckos. Hold, brush and walk the animals. 11am-1pm. £7.50.

Weald Country Park, CM14 5QS. 01277 261343. BE Fri 14 Aug Kite Making Make a kite from upcycled materials and test it out in the park. Age: 0-12yrs, accompanied. 11am-12.30pm. £6. Weald Country Park, CM14 5QS. 01277 261343.

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 15• South Essex • 17

Diary Dates Wed 12 Aug Police Photography With Scenes of Crime officer Chris Farndell. Age: 7yrs+. 11am - 1pm / 2 4pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum BE Wed 19 Aug Fingerprint Art Create a work of art with your fingertips!

Suitable all ages. 10am – 4pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum Sat 22 Aug Do You Dig ‘Time Team’?

Family archaeological activities, plus make mosaics and oil lamps.

Chelmsford Museum, CM2 9AQ. Free admission (small charge for some activities). 01245 605700. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums Wed 26 Aug Make a Zeppelin Commemorate the officers who shot down a German airship in Essex during the First World War by making a replica model. Age: 5yrs+. 10am-4pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum

GRAYS Sun 12 July Snow Queen Experience Crafts and activities and sing along with the Snow Queen. Fancy dress optional.

Suitable all ages. 10.30-11.30am / 11am12pm / 11.30-12.30 / 12.45-1.45 / 1.152.15 / 1.45-2.45pm (arrive 15 mins before event for registration). £10. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, RM16 6RG. www.essexwt.org.uk BE Thur 23 July Pirates Ahoy Arts and crafts, plus find the treasure.

Fancy dress optional. Suitable all ages.

10-11.30am. £5. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, RM16 6RG. www.essexwt.org.uk BE Tue 28 July Bug Hunting Discover the bugs that fly and creep around the Gorge. All equipment provided. Suitable all ages. 1 - 2:30pm. £5. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, RM16 6RG. www.essexwt.org.uk Thur 30 July Science Experiments Learn some great science experiments and tricks. Age: 7yrs+. 10 - 11:30am. £5.

Chafford Gorges Nature Park, RM16 6RG. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

Our Show Time listings have moved online this time.

To find out what great productions are on near you, visit:

www.kidaround.biz

Tue 11 Aug Pixies and Fairies Face painting, create your own mini pixie house to take home and search for the pixie village in the Gorge. Fancy dress optional. Suitable all ages. 10-11:30am / 12-1.30pm / 1.30-3pm. £5. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, RM16 6RG. www.essexwt.org.uk BE Thur 20 Aug Toad Hall House Discover the life of toads and frogs, learn how they survive in the wild and how you can help. Build your own Toad house and make a clay Toad to take home. Suitable all ages. 10:30am - 12pm / 12.30-2pm. £5. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, RM16 6RG. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

HAVERING Wed 3, 10, 24 June, 1, 8, 15, 22 July, 2, 9 Sept Owlets Forest Group Play in and explore the woodland, wide variety of activities. Age: 18m+. 10am12.30pm. £8. Snacks are provided but please bring a packed lunch with you to enjoy out in the woods as part of the session. Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QH Fri 5 June & Fri 19 June Bedford Nature Rangers: Seniors Explore the outdoors at night with different activities each session. Age: 10yrs+. 7-9pm. £5. Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QH. www.essexwt.org.uk BE Sun 7 June Open Day Celebrate the Visitor Centre’s 12th Birthday! Craft tables, children’s activities, live music and more. Free event but donations requested for some activities. 10am - 4pm. Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QH. www.essexwt.org.uk Sun 14 June Crafty Kids Club Selection of different crafts to make and take home. Age: 6yrs+ (8 yrs+ may be left unaccompanied). 10am-12pm. £5.

Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Haveringatte-Bower, RM4 1QH. www.essexwt.org.uk BE

LONDON Sun 21 June Bushcraft Explore the Forest and learn some bushcraft. Wear wet weather clothes and boots. Age: 8-16yrs. 1–4pm. Rushey Plain car park, IG10 4AE. 020 7332 1911.

Free Event. BE Sat 4 July Junior Angling Day Learn how to set up a fishing rod and float and hopefully catch some fish!

10am–1pm. £5.

Theydon Bois Pond. 020 7332 9911. epping.forest@cityoflondon.gov.uk BE Sun 5 July Family Learning Event Learn all about cows and their important place in the Forest. Make an animal mask to wear. 1pm–4pm. £1 per person (under 3s free). The View, Epping Forest, E4 7QH. 020 7332 1911. BE

18 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Sun 12 July Paws!

Activities for dogs and their owners, including have-a-go agility, displays, stalls, tombola and a companion dog show. 11am-4pm. £1 entry. The View, Epping Forest, E4 7QH. 020 7332 1911 BE Sun 12 July City of London Festival Live music and activities, in conjunction with Paws at The View. 12–4pm. The View, Epping Forest, E4 7QH. 020 7332 1911 Free Event Thur 23 July – Fri 28 Aug MASKerade Explore flora and fauna by following the trail, and then become the animal of your choice by colouring a mask. 10am – 4.30pm. Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH. www.bankofengland.co.uk/ museum 020 7601 5545. Free Event Sun 26 July Summer Festival Live music, dance, walkabout acts, food, stalls, face-painting, games and arts and crafts. 11.30am-4.30pm. Museum of Childhood, E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk Free Event Fri 31 July Story-Fest Story-telling, workshops, installations and art activities. 11am-4pm. Museum of Childhood, E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk Free Event

MALDON Sun 14 June Heavy Horse Show Arena displays of working horses and dogs, plus live music, country craft stalls and vintage tractors. The museum will be open with working historic machinery. Miniature steam train rides (fare £1). 10am start. Adult £8, Senior £6, Child £4. Museum of Power, CM9 6QA. 01621 843183 www.museumofpower.org.uk Sun 21 June Blackwater Country Show Special 10th anniversary celebrations. In support of Essex Air Ambulance. 10am – 5pm.

Cost: TBA. Chigborough Road, Heybridge, CM9 4RB. www.blackwatercountryshow.co.uk Sat 27 June Fun Day Bouncy castles, tank, tug of war, demonstrations, refreshments, stalls, games, face-painting, raffle. 12 - 3pm.

Heybridge Primary School, Rowan Drive, CM9 4TU. www.heybridge-tkat.org Free Entry Sun 28 June Classic Campervan & Vintage Fair Displays of classic camper vans, vintage stalls and trade stands. Museum open.

Miniature steam train (fare £1). Adult £6, Senior £5, Children (5-15) £2, Under 5s free. Gates open at 10am. Museum of Power, CM9 6QA. www.museumofpower.org.uk Sat 4 July Heybridge Regatta Activities afloat and ashore for all the family. full details to be confirmed. Free event for spectators. Heybridge Basin

Diary Dates Sat 18 July Lions Family Fun Day Children’s entertainment and live music.

Miniature steam train (fare £1). Adults £6, Seniors £5, Family (2 adults + max.

3 children) £15. Gates open 10am.

Museum of Power, CM9 6QA. www.museumofpower.org.uk Sat 1 Aug Maldon Carnival Routes around Maldon. Full details to be confirmed. Free Event Sun 9 Aug Bikemeet Classic, historic & race motorcycles, trial riding display. Miniature steam train rides, live music & family entertainment.

Museum is open with working steam engine and historic machinery. Gates open 10am. Adults £6, Seniors £5, Children (5-15) £2, under 5s free.

Museum of Power, CM9 6QA. www.museumofpower.org.uk Sun 9 Aug Country Show Stalls, arena events, display teams, artisan foods & live music. IAO Little Havens Children’s Hospice. Cost: TBA. Barons Lane, Purleigh. www.itsshowtime.org.

Thur 13 Aug Northanger Abbey Open air theatre production. Gates open 7pm. Tearoom open. Adults £12(in advance) £14 (on the door) Children under 14 £8. Tickets: Maldon Tourist Office (01621 856503) or DOT theatre website. Museum of Power, CM9 6QA. www.museumofpower.org.uk Sat 29 Aug – Sat 5 Sept Regatta & Quay Day Watch the race starts and a gig rowing display. Plus stalls, and art exhibition.

Burnham Quayside. Free Event Sun 6 Sept American Car Show Classic American cars & custom cars, stalls, miniature train rides, live music & family entertainment. Museum is open with working steam engine and historic machinery. Gates open at 10am. Adults £6, Seniors £5, Children (5-15) £2, under 5s free. Museum of Power, CM9 6QA. www.museumofpower.org.uk Sat 12 & Sun 13 Sept Heritage Weekend Free entry to the museum and grounds.

See the magnificent steam pumping engine and visit the Edwardian beltdriven workshop and other working historic machinery. Miniature steam train rides on Sunday only (fare £1). Museum & tearoom open from 10am.

Museum of Power, CM9 6QA. www.museumofpower.org.uk

ONGAR Fri 5 – Sun 7 June Steam Gala Experience a weekend of steam locomotives. Epping Ongar Railway, CM5 9BN. www.eorailway.co.uk Sat 13 & Sun 14 June 1940s Weekend Go back to the 1940s, with music and dancing, re-enactment groups, vintage vehicles and a range of stalls. Adult: £13, Child (3-15yrs): £7. Epping Ongar Railway, CM5 9BN. www.eorailway.co.uk

Sat 8 & Sun 9 Aug Peppa Pig Visits the Railway Peppa will be making appearances at intervals throughout the day. Plus fun activities. Epping Ongar Railway, CM5 9BN. www.eorailway.co.uk Sat 15 & Sun 16 Aug Vintage Vehicle Rally A selection of steam and other vehicles will be on display in addition to the regular steam and diesel services.

Epping Ongar Railway, CM5 9BN. www.eorailway.co.uk Sat 29 – Mon 31 Aug 150th Anniversary Celebration & Victorian Bank Holiday Weekend Mainly a Victorian theme but also celebrating other key periods in the Railway’s 150 year history. Epping Ongar Railway, CM5 9BN. www.eorailway.co.uk

SOUTHEND ON SEA Sat 6 & Sun 7 June Maritime Festival The first ever Southend-on-Sea Maritime Festival will include activities such as sand castle-making, sculptures and sea shell decorating, through to history talks and re-enactments. Plus live music and food. www.southendmaritimefestival.co.uk Sun 7 Jun Island to Island Mud Run Family fun run From Bell Warf, Leigh on Sea and alongside Leigh Creek.

01702 220356 or email jcurtis@havenshospices.org.uk BE Sun 14 June Iron Age Roundhouse Open Afternoon Explore the replica Iron Age roundhouse and learn how ancestors lived 2000 years ago.

1-4pm. Chapel Lane car park, Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. Free Event Thu 25 - Sun 28 June Leigh Folk Festival www.leighfolkfestival.com. Free Event Sat 4 & Sun 5 July Robin Hood Game & Country Show Spectacular displays and demonstrations, including knights, vikings, archers, falcons, horses and dogs. Garons Park, SS2 4FA. Sun 5 July Iron Age Roundhouse Open Afternoon Explore the replica Iron Age roundhouse and learn how ancestors lived 2000 years ago. 1-4pm. Chapel Lane car park, Hadleigh Park, SS7 2PP. Free Event

Sun 2 Aug Leigh Maritime Festival Town Centre, Leigh-on-Sea. Free Event Thur 6 – Sat 22 Aug Carnival Fun Fair Children’s rides, family attractions, fun games, big inflatables and more.

2-10pm. £1 per adult (includes two children age 14 and under for free, and 50p for each additional child under 14).

Chalkwell, SS0 8NB Wed 19 Aug Teddy Bear’s Picnic Bring a picnic and a teddy bear! 11am4pm. £3. Priory Park.

Sun 23 Aug British Heart Foundation Ride The London-to-Southend Off-road bike ride will be finishing at Hadleigh Park.

Full details can be found at: www.bhf.org.uk/get-involved/events/ bike-rides/london-to-southend-offroad-bike-ride

THURROCK & TILBURY Sat 13 June Bat Walk Look for bats using a bat detector.

Families. 8.30-9.45pm. £5 per person.

Please dress warm. Bring a torch and your bat detector if you have one.

Belhus Country Park, South Ockendon RM15 4XJ. 01708 865628.

Sat 20 June Bird Feeder Making Make a bird feeder to take home.

Suitable all ages, must be accompanied.

11am-12.30pm. Belhus Country Park, South Ockendon RM15 4XJ. 01708 865628.

Wed 24 June Wildflower Walk Join an expert and learn to identify wildflowers. Adults/ families. 1.304.30pm. £5/person. Belhus Country Park, South Ockendon RM15 4XJ. 01708 865628 Sun 28 June Open Day A chance to view this fine example of mid-Victorian military architecture. With tea room and play area. 11am-5pm. £4 adults, £3 concessions, 50p child (5-16 yrs). Coalhouse Fort, East Tilbury, RM18 8PB. 01375 844203 www.coalhousefort.co.uk Sun 26 July Classic Cars 11am-5pm. £4 adults, £3 concessions, 50p child (5-16 yrs). Coalhouse Fort, East Tilbury, RM18 8PB. 01375 844203 www.coalhousefort.co.uk

Sat 1 Aug – Sun 30 Aug Kids Club Lakeside Shopping Centre, West Thurrock Way, Grays, RM20 2ZP. 01708 869933. www.intu.co.uk Sat 8 Aug Bat Walk Look for bats using a bat detector.

Families. 8-9.30pm. £5 per person.

Please dress warm. Bring a torch and your bat detector if you have one.

Belhus Country Park, South Ockendon RM15 4XJ. 01708 865628.

Sat 8 & Sun 9 Aug Military and Flying Machines Including aircraft, stalls, rides and activities for all the family plus reenactors from all periods of history.

Damyns Hall Aerodrome, Upminster RM14 2TN www.militaryandflyingmachines.org.uk Wed 19 Aug Wildflower Walk Join an expert and learn to identify wildflowers. 1.30-4.30pm. £5. Belhus Country Park, South Ockendon RM15 4XJ. 01708 865628.

Sun 30 & Mon 31 Aug Open Day A chance to view this fine example of mid-Victorian military architecture. With tea room and play area. 11am-5pm. £4 adults, £3 concessions, 50p child (5-16 yrs). Coalhouse Fort, East Tilbury, RM18 8PB. 01375 844203 www.coalhousefort.co.uk

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 next issue, please email the details to: diarydates@kidaround.biz

Sat 11 July Village Green Arts and music festival. 11am-9pm.

Adult: £10; 11-17yrs: £5; under 10s free.

Chalkwell, SS0 8NB. press@metalculture.com BE Fri 24 July Glow by Night A two-mile circular walk in search of the magical and elusive glow-worm. 9.15pm. £4 adult, £2 child. Meet: Benfleet station (south side), SS7 2DD Sat 1 & Sun 2 Aug Puppet Festival 11am-5pm. Southend Pier, SS1 1EE. www.visitsouthend.co.uk 01702 618747.

Free Event

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 15• South Essex • 19

We all have different ideas of what makes a wonderful day out with the family. However, sometimes the organisation and getting on your way can lead to frustrations and rising stress levels - with car journeys consisting of several toilet stops, and the constant question ‘Are we nearly there yet?’ from the minute you leave. Here are a few little things that may help you organise your perfect day out and enjoy the experience. Please remember this advice won’t necessarily work miracles though!

Keep them occupied Although it would be nice to relax and watch the scenery go by, the best way to keep our little ones happy is to occupy them. Try games such as: Eye Spy; Shout Out When You See (choose an object that you will see on the journey i.e. a lorry; the kids have to shout ‘Lorry!’ whenever they see one; it’s then their turn to choose an object); The Alphabet Game (name items that begin with letters of the alphabet).

For babies, make sure they have things they can engage with such as dangling toys and mirrors. Play fun music, whether it’s nursery rhymes that drive you mad, or the Frozen album. If the kids can recognise the songs and sing along they will be happy, and you will probably find yourself joining in too!

Perfect timing Have a time plan in place - if you want to arrive at a certain time, ensure you allow for traffic and stops. Leaving/arriving late can often make us feel stressed. Prepare what you want to take the night before.

Adaptable fun Kids change their mind from one second to the next, so if you are going to an event with lots of different activities, try to adapt according to what they are interested in doing. Rather than sticking rigidly to a plan, try to relax and go with the flow.

The don’t panic emergency plan Have a plan and talk to your child/children about what to do if he/she gets lost. It’s a good idea to choose a landmark to meet at if your child gets separated from you. I also write my mobile number on my child’s arm in case she gets lost, or even on a piece of paper and tell her to keep it safe in her pocket.

Weather it’ll be hot or cold The good old English weather is never predictable so, with all the other things to remember, pack some spare jumpers/raincoats and umbrellas. If you are going somewhere wet/messy, knowing you’ve got a spare set of clothes will mean you won’t worry about letting them have fun with the water or rain (kids love puddles!). Take some sun hats too!

Fun in the sun (safety) Cover yourself and the kids before you leave and take cream with you to reapply if you’re going to be out for a long time or if the kids get wet. Sun screen is available in different colours and sprays to make it easier to encourage reluctant kids to put it on.

20 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Eating out Taking snacks or a packed lunch can seem like just another thing to remember, but keeping yourselves fed and watered means you all stay happy and active. A picnic out is great fun for everyone. If you go to a restaurant take some colouring pencils and sheets of paper and ask the kids to draw their favourite thing of the day. For younger babies, make sure they are fed with a clean nappy and they’ll be content and happy when your food arrives.

Time to go home Plan what time you want to get back. If you want to get back in time for tea, plan what you will be having the night before and leave in time to prepare and cook the meal when you return. Ensure where you park is easy to exit and allow for heavy traffic at a busy event/venue.

I hope whatever you do you have a Great Day Out. I’m sure my list sounds like you need to pack everything including the kitchen sink, but often these little things can help. I just need to listen to my own advice!

win To help you enjoy your Great Day out, KidAround has been given two sets of these Skip Hop goodies (in Owl or Monkey designs) to giveaway.

Summer Dining with Skip Hop! Whether you’re planning summer picnics with the kids or need help getting little ones fed while travelling, these co-ordinating feeding accessories from Skip Hop are perfect for ‘food on the move’!

For more details visit Maguari at www.maguari.com To be in with a chance, email your name, address and contact number by 5 August 15 to comps@kidaround.biz or go online at www.kidaround.biz We will contact the winners directly and announce via our facebook page: www.facebook.com/kidaroundmagazine Set includes: Skip Hop Zoo Fold & Go Placemat, Skip Hop Zoo Lunch Kit, Skip Hop Zoo Sandwich & Snack Bag Set, Skip Hop Zoo Insulated Food Jar Skip Hop Zoo Straw Bottle

For Smiles On Sea, Choose Southend

Whatever the time of year, Southend-on-Sea is making visitors smile.

It could be the simple pleasures of enjoying a walk by the seaside, riding the roller-coasters at Adventure Island Fun Park or playing in the new fountains on the central seafront. Whatever the reason, families find plenty to smile about in Southend-on-Sea. The Pier stretches out over a mile and is the longest in the world. It is also home to a railway that regularly runs trains to the Pier Head. The Royal Pavilion hosts regular events; you can call into the RNLI shop and you can see visiting ships, wildlife and the busy Thames Estuary.

Along with amusement arcades and traditional seaside shops, the seafront is also home to Sealife Adventure. Here you can get up close to some watery wonders including rays from the nearby estuary as well as sharks and crocodiles from more distant habitats.

Away from the seafront, Southend has just as much to offer for a great family day out.

Southchurch Hall is a moated Tudor manor and regularly hosts costumed events. Prittlewell Priory and Gardens also acts as an escape to the past. These are both free to enter as are the museums and art galleries all in easy walking distance from the bustling High Street.

More surprises can be found at Belfairs Park where 84 hectares of woodland, parks, golf and even pony trekking can be found, all just a step away from the seaside.

Southend is an easy option without your car, with nine train stations around the borough, regular modern buses. With lots to enjoy in a small space you’ll easily fill your day.

In fact there’s so much to do you can’t really cover it in a day. It’s worth checking out some of the local B&Bs and hotels to make a real family fun break. This year, new hotels have opened so there are plenty of options for different budgets.

If you are going to stay longer, it’s worth considering some of the other activities around.

There is a marine activities centre where you can learn to sail, windsurf or even drive powerboats. At Shoebury East Beach you can even push the boundary to extreme sports too, like kitesurfing.

If you prefer to watch the world go by and lap up relaxation whilst the rest of the family wear themselves out, then there are some outstanding seafront restaurants to choose from along the seven miles of coast which stretches from Leigh on Sea to Shoeburyness.

Events, attractions and places to stay are all on the official tourism website www.visitsouthend.co.uk so fill your family with plenty of smiles on Sea and choose Southend!

Essex Police Museum

Wonder how heavy a police officer’s hat really is?

How easy is it to take your fingerprints? Visitors can try for themselves, this summer holiday at Essex Police Museum. Over August the Museum is open every Wednesday in addition to its regular Saturday opening hours. Visitors can try a cell out for size, give evidence in the witness box, and solve their puzzles on their police box.

Open from 10am to 4pm, admission to the Museum is free but there is a charge of £2 for children wishing to take part in the craft events.

For more details of police-themed activities for all ages please visit www.essex.police.uk/museum

22 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Coalhouse Fort, Tilbury, Essex

Coalhouse Fort is a mid-Victorian fort built between 1861 – 1874 to defend the River Thames and London from Napoleon III and continued to be manned by both the Army and Royal Navy until 1962 when it was handed over to Thurrock Council. From 1983 it has been operated and maintained by the Coalhouse Fort Project to preserve and develop it for future generations. It is open on the last Sunday of each month and Bank Holidays from March – November each year with a number of special events.

There is an aircraft museum with WW2 aircraft relics and their histories, the military museum covering fort army and navy history over the past 150 years, and a 38 ton Victorian RML replica gun. www.coalhousefort.co.uk 01375 844203

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

Stay Play Explore offers great family fun at very affordable prices. Within the range, they have two exciting family getaways, which both include tickets to three from a choice of five brilliant attractions, as well as bed and breakfast for the whole family!

These packages are both just £129 for a family of 4 with the option to add an extra child at a discounted price.

The ever popular Family Fun short break is back this year with new hotels to choose from, while the Family Adventure package has been revamped to include new outdoor adventures.

Package Options (choose 3 of the 5 attractions): Family Adventure Leicestershire • Tobogganing & sno-tubing at Swadlincote Ski Centre • Ranger-led activities at Conkers • Leicestershire Outdoor Pursuit Centre • Crazy golf & pedalos at Bosworth Water Park • Roliston Forestry Centre Family Fun Leicestershire - tickets to enter the following attractions: • National Space Centre • Conkers Natural Forest • Twycross Zoo • Twin Lakes Theme Park • Stonehurst Family Farm *only from 1st April • Snibston Discover Museum *only until 31st March Booking couldn’t be easier, just choose which hotel you’d like to stay at and select your short break package dates now!

For more information, to see availability and to book, please visit www.stayplayexplore.co.uk

Chelmsford Museum Have you visited yet ?

In 2010 the Museum opened a new building next to the Victorian House which doubled its size. The modern spacious building fits beautifully into Oaklands Park. Car parking has been increased and is free.

Entry to the Museum also remains free. The Green Flag park has new playgrounds and tennis courts. The Museum has vending machines and a small shop. There is a new good coffee van most days outside this summer, and an ice cream van.

Exhibitions in the new building include : • Bright Sparks – a hands-on look at Chelmsford’s world beating industries • Interactives – find out what a radio wave is, how electricity works, and how Hoffmanns ball bearings defeated the force of friction !

• The Essex Regiment Museum They also tell the story of the county town and district, from the Ice Ages up to the present day! Watch old cine film footage of Chelmsford Carnival whilst your children dress up!

Be scared by Boris, the much-loved brown Russian bear, and watch the bees’ waggle dance in their live observation bee hive.

This summer, don’t miss (some charges apply) : 11-12 July: Essex Regiment Fun Weekend 25 July: Make It At the Museum (craft, potters wheel and sculpting).

Wednesdays in Holidays: Wednesday Wonders, art and crafts, quizzes for you and your children 22 August: So you Dig ‘Time Team’ ? (archaeology skills) Find them in Oaklands Park off Moulsham Street, CM2 9AQ Go to www.chelmsford.gov.uk/museums Phone 01245 605700 Open Mondays to Saturdays 10-5pm, and Sundays 1-4pm.

But please note they are closed on term time Fridays.

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 15 15•• South Essex • 23

Great Days Out Museum of Power

The Museum of Power is housed in a former water pumping station set in attractive riverside grounds. The museum features a gigantic pumping engine which can be seen in steam at some events. The exhibits and interactive displays illustrating the themes of Power and the Story of Water will fascinate all ages. There is an attractive tearoom offering a range of delicious food. School visits are welcome and parties can be catered for. The museum and tearoom open at 10am from Wednesday to Sunday between February and December. Entry to the grounds and tearoom is free and admission to the museum is £4.50 for adults, £4.00 for seniors and just £2.00 for children. The miniature steam railway and Model Village operate at most events. Please visit www.museumofpower.org.uk for further details and calendar of special events and steam days.

Museum of Power, Hatfield Road, Langford near Maldon CM9 6QA

Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village

Barleylands is bursting with free range family fun. With farmyard friends, animal activities, indoor and outdoor play and a new reptile house, there’s so much to do! Bottle feed animals, watch sheep races, see birds of prey in action, jump on a tractor & trailer ride and so much more.

Look out for special events for Open Farm Sunday and Fathers Day in June, and discover Six Weeks of Summer Holiday Fun with a different theme every week including Art Attack, Birds & Bees and Ultimate Inflatables Week!

Barleylands is at Barleylands Road, Billericay, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 To save 10% or for further details visit www.barleylands.co.uk

Bank Of England Museum

During the summer holidays from 23 July to 28 August, the Bank of England Museum welcomes everyone to its MASKerade event. Explore the museum’s Flora and Fauna exhibition and follow the trail, to discover the various animals and plants which have been linked to the Bank through its history. From the protective lions guarding the gates, to the elaborate floral banknote designs, and not forgetting the Garden Court secretly situated at the centre of the Bank which is home to an array of wildlife and plants, the Museum will truly come alive this summer! Children can then get creative by decorating an animal mask. There are a variety of creatures to choose from, including mighty lions, wise owls and the popular characters from ‘The Wind in the Willows’, whose author Kenneth Graham - worked at the Bank for 30 years.

A family fun day out is guaranteed, with a variety of unique and intriguing treasures just waiting to be discovered. From the one million pound note to the glistening collection of gold bars, including a genuine gold bar which can be held, although - weighing 13kilos, it will take many people by surprise! Whilst in the Museum, climb aboard the life-size boat docked at the centre of the Museum Stock Office and enjoy a range of attractions including banknote jigsaws, a roller ball game and the opportunity for some safe cracking! Visitors can also take the helm of a virtual boat game to learn about inflation and the Bank’s role in keeping economy on a stable course. Activity sheets are available for children of all ages, with prizes to be won.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays for the duration of the event, members of the banknote education team will be conducting short interactive presentations in the Museum cinema at 1:00pm.

Open Monday to Friday from 10:00am to 5:00pm (last entry 4:45pm) Admission and all events are free.

Bartholomew Lane London EC2R 8AH T 0207 601 5545 24 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Great Days Out Summer Full Of Fun

There’s a whole summer full of fun events and activities coming up in Essex Country Parks. There really is something for everyone to enjoy. Take to the fresh air and tranquillity of these beautiful settings and your child can find a whole new world of play and creativity… just let your imagination run free.

Become a #CountryParkExplorer and win a prize: Post a picture of your fun day out at an Essex Country Park on social media and you could win an Essex Country Parks six-month car park season ticket.

All you have to do is post a photo on one of their Twitter or Facebook pages using the hashtag #CountryParkExplorer and then the hashtag of the park where the picture was taken: #Danbury, #Weald, #BelhusWoods, #Thorndon, #GreatNotley, #CudmoreGrove, #CressingTemple, #MarshFarm.

Post your picture on: Tweet: @Essex_CC or @visitparks Facebook: www.facebook.com/essexcountycouncil or www.facebook.com/visitparks Every month they will pick a winner at random. For terms and conditions go to www.visitparks.co.uk Fun events for everyone: From nature club to a farm day, to kite making and bat walks… they have events all year round at their fabulous Essex Country Parks - especially during school holidays.

Highlights include Robin Hood – The Musical, a fun-filled family show on Saturday, June 20, at Cudmore Grove, or join the Seaside Special there on Wednesday August 5, where activities will include kite-making, seashell mobile

making and a beach scavenger hunt.

There’s Wild Wednesday at Danbury every Wednesday during the school holidays and Treemendous Tuesday at Weald every school holiday Tuesday, when children and adults have permission to play with their families in activities free of charge, from den-making to making mud pies and play wild… dress to get messy!

Go online www.visitparks.co.uk to find out more about what’s on and book an experience to treasure.

Look out on social media for details of pop-up events at Essex Country Parks this summer.

Coming soon… Sky Trail: Opening this summer at Great Notley Country Park, the Sky Trail will be a high ropes adventure for children and adults alike. With two courses, one for toddlers and one for those aged seven and above, Great Notley Country Park is set to become even more fun for those with an adventurous spirit. Watch out for an opening date, prices and how to book on www.visitparks.co.uk Wilkin & Sons comes to Cressing: One of Essex’s most famous global brands, Wilkin & Sons, maker of the iconic Tiptree jam, are opening their latest tea shop at the historic Cressing Temple barns. Opening hours will be 8am to 5pm daily. It will serve a selection of light snacks, lunches, cream teas and beverages. Access to the gardens, barns and grounds are still free of charge.

For more information visit: www.visitparks.co.uk

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 15 15•• South Essex • 25

Great Days Out

The Orsett Show

Set in 30 acres of Essex countryside in the village of Orsett, the annual Orsett Show is a great day out with attractions for all the family, and is one of, if not the, most popular family event in Thurrock. It’s one of the oldest one-day Country Shows in England, with the 109th Show taking place on Saturday 5 September 2015.

At the show, there are marquees featuring horticulture, agriculture, hobbies & handicrafts, schools, craft stalls, food hall and over 150 trade stands.

There’s an ever-changing programme of exciting displays in the Grand Display Ring and events and competitions throughout the day in the Horse Rings. There is also a Family Stage sponsored by Intu Lakeside featuring live shows from various local groups, artists and dance schools and a sports area with various competitions to keep everyone occupied. There’s certainly something for everyone at the Orsett Show!

This year, there is great news for families in that kids go FREE (under 16 years) when accompanied by a full paying adult. Adult tickets are £12.00 on the day or £10.00 if bought in advance. Concessions for OAPs are £10.00 on the day or £8.00 in advance.

Why not buy your tickets in advance, saving you money and queuing on the day! Advance tickets are available online. Tickets are available now from www.orsettshow.co.uk After that date, tickets are available on the gate on Show Day. The Show has free on-site parking as well as a disabled parking area.

Epping & Ongar Railway Celebrate 150 Year Anniversary Since 2012 the Epping Ongar Railway has proved to be a great day out for thousands of families and with a wide range of special events, it is not at all surprising. Children and grown-ups always love riding on a steam train.

In addition to steam and diesel trains there is a fleet of Routemaster buses.

The buses will pick you up right outside Epping or Shenfield stations, Photography by Roy Strutt which makes the EOR very accessible by public transport. However, there is parking at Epping Station and nearby to Ongar for those coming under their own steam!

The Railway is open every weekend, Bank Holidays and Wednesdays in the school holidays until 1 November 2015.

Pick Your Own & More At Lathcoats Farm, Chelmsford

Lathcoats Farm in Chelmsford is the place to visit this time of year. They offer a taste of summer with strawberries, raspberries and much more, all available for Pick Your Own in their season from around June to August.

Join their email alert service and check the website or answerphone before you travel to ensure that they are open and your chosen fruits are available. You’ll find seasonal produce and great local food in the Farm Shop and the Bee Shed Coffee House including a children’s menu and a small play area and friendly farm animals.

Visit www.eapples.co.uk for more information or call 01245 353021”

26 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Hadleigh Park is the ideal setting for a great day out this Summer!

Hadleigh Park offers something for everyone, from acres of beautiful countryside and rich heritage, to one of the best UK mountain bike courses at its heart.

Families can explore idyllic countryside with magnificent views over the Thames Estuary, making it the perfect place for picnics, walks and wildlife watching. There is also the opportunity to try your hand at something a little more challenging…

Home of the London 2012 Olympic Mountain Biking, visitors can now experience the adrenalin and thrill of the original Olympic mountain bike course which has been retained and developed. A wider network of cycle trails and walking paths have also been created to suit all ages and abilities. Their skills area and pump track allow users to test their own ability before attempting any of the trails.

The tracks are free to ride and the venue boasts a brand new ‘Hub’ that includes a café, outdoor children’s play area and seating, with a bike rental shop due to open in July.

Children can step back and gain a glimpse into history with a visit to their roundhouse, typical of the Iron Age, which can be found located next to the car park and is open at pre-advertised times. They have several WW2 monuments that were used by the Ministry Of Defence as part of a key strategic anti-aircraft gunning placement. The remains of Hadleigh Castle, an impressive ruin of a fortress built over 700 years ago, immortalised on canvas by John Constable, can also be found only a short walk away, along with the Salvation Army Rare Breeds Centre.

Hadleigh Parks also offer a wide ranging programme of activities and events throughout the year. To keep up to date on all the latest news and events follow them on Twitter @Hadleigh_Park or like them on Facebook at Hadleigh Park. For more information visit www.Hadleigh-Park.co.uk

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 15 15•• South Essex • 27

Great Days Out Summer at Lee Valley Park Farms

Summer is a great time to visit Lee Valley Park Farms with falconry demonstrations wowing the crowds and the visit of popular Children’s TV characters Ben and Holly adding to the family fun.

The duo will visit on Sunday 14 June giving everyone the chance to meet fairy princess Holly and her elf best friend Ben. The whole family will also enjoy meeting the farm’s many animals which include reindeer, pygmy goats, giant rabbits, rare breed pigs and longnecked llamas.

The resident Meerkat family also have a brand new Lookout enclosure, which is proving very popular and has been designed to replicate their natural environment.

New this year is a farm-themed outdoor play area which features a wooden vet’s clinic and a farm shop so children can have hands-on experience playing being a vet or a farmer.

There is also a combine harvester play frame with slide and crawl tunnels known as Connie the Combine.

If you’re planning a birthday party, Lee Valley Park Farms is also the perfect venue for kids aged five and over.

As part of the birthday bundle you can choose a unique animal experience of your choice and enjoy hot and cold party food, balloon animals and party bags whilst the birthday child will also receive a Petunia Pig toy.

A day at the farms is fantastic value for money. Entry for adults costs £9.50, children/concessions £8.50 and under 2s free. Visitors can pre-book online and save at least 10 per cent.

For more information on Lee Valley Park Farms go to www.visitleevalley.org.uk/farms or call 01992 892 781.

Blake House Craft Centre

Wander around the fine variety of art and craft shops in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, where there really is something for everyone.

From beaded bracelets to handmade bunting, dolls houses to dancewear and Gibson guitars to retro games, you can treat yourself or find the perfect gift.

Enjoy a bite to eat at Timbers Restaurant, let the kids use up some energy in their play area, take on the family with a game of crazy golf, and during the summer, see if you can find your way through this year’s tractor themed maize maze challenge at The Original Great Maze!

Blake House Craft Centre, Blake End, Near Braintree, Essex, CM77 6RA. Tel: 01376 344123 www.facebook.com/blakehousecraftcentre

28 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Great Days Out Explore Essex for a little less…

Visit Essex have yet again teamed up with top attractions and venues across the county to offer you a range of discounts and special deals for fabulous days out that won’t break the bank. From castles and lavish stately homes where you can step inside and see the past come alive, to animal encounters, heritage railways and seaside adventures.

Discover the top places to visit, soak in our cultural offerings and marvel at the ancient heritage and maritime history.

Animals are always a great favourite with children. Whether it’s a visit to a farm park, zoo or nature reserve, Essex has a wealth of award-winning places to visit that fans of all creatures great and small will love. Your little monkeys will go wild at the prospect of a trip to Colchester Zoo! Rated as one of the top twenty in the world, it is a sanctuary for a number of endangered and vulnerable species. Marsh Farm promises acres of magical fun for all the family, with a wide variety of activities available every day. At Tropical Wings you will be able to admire one of the finest tropical houses in the UK, filled with butterflies, but it is also home to beautiful, exotic creatures. And Barleylands is now home to the South East’s largest reptile display collection with the permanent Reptile House from Snakes Alive. Explore over 50 enclosures bursting with snakes, lizards, tortoises, amphibians, mini-beasts and much more.

Why not request the 2015 Essex visitor guide, packed with ideas for some of the best days out, attractions and activities for the whole family.

Download your vouchers at www.visitessex.com/livelocal and request your brochure at www.visitessex.com/brochure

Museum of Childhood The V&A Museum of Childhood is the home of the national childhood collection. The galleries reveal how children have learnt, played and lived over the centuries, with a fascinating collection of toys, games, art and design for kids, dolls’ houses, furniture, paintings and clothes.

This summer the main exhibition ‘Small Stories, At Home in a Dolls’ House’ allows visitors to peek behind closed doors and discover the stories of the tiny inhabitants of 12 of the Museum’s most treasured dolls’ houses.

Journey through 300 years of the history of the home, everyday lives and changing family relationships. Listen in to tales of marriages and parties, politics and crime. Visit a country mansion, a Georgian town house, a suburban villa, and a high-rise apartment. This fun family exhibition allows visitors to explore each dolls’ house through audio and lighting. Interactive play rooms let visitors ‘shrink’ to doll size and experience daily life in the 1830s and 1960s.

Displays include The Alice Look, offering a new view of Lewis Caroll’s heroine and marking the 150th anniversary of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. See how Alice has been adopted and adapted across the world in all walks of life, and how she has inspired many of the most celebrated designers, stylists and photographers. From July there’s a display a colourful of Kites from Kabul.

Throughout the school holidays the Museum runs free drop-in activities including arts and craft, tours, trails and storytelling. For a full list of events and activities visit vam.ac.uk/moc You’ll find the Museum in vibrant East London, just a 3 minute walk from Bethnal Green tube station. Entry is free.

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 15 • South Essex • 29

BASILDON

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

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

BRENTWOOD

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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

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

Kumon - Chelmsford South

Drop in sessions Monday: 4:00pm to 6:00pm & Thursday: 4:00pm to 6:00pm Moulsham Lodge Methodist Church Lime Walk, Chelmsford, CM2 9NJ 01245 349 666 ENG MAT

TopClass Tutoring

Private tuition for children aged 7-11. All subjects, all abilities. Chelmsford-based.

Call Helen Ashdown on 01245 422233 or 0759 5154 821 topclasstutoring.co.uk 11+ ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN

ESSEX

Fleet Tutors

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

11+ ENG ICT LAN MAT MUS SAT SCI SEN

GRAYS

Drop-in sessions Wednesday: 3:30pm to 5:30pm & Saturday: 9:30am to 11:30am at The Beehive Voluntary and Community Resource Centre, West St, Grays RM17 6XP Call Joy Odelusi 020 3371 0082 ENG MAT

HORNCHURCH

Explore Learning

Tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities.

35 High Street, Hornchurch, RM11 1TP. 01708 629620 www.explorelearning.co.uk hornchurch@explorelearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SEN

LAKESIDE

Explore Learning

Tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities.

Free trial session 01702 568808 www.explorelearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SEN

Kip McGrath Southend West

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

WICKFORD Kumon

Tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities.

Free trial session 01708 869650 www.explorelearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SEN

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

LOUGHTON

ENG MAT

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

SchoolServe

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11+ 11 PLUS ENG ENGLISH ICT COMPUTING LAN LANGUAGES MAT MATHEMATICS MUS MUSIC SAT SATs SCI SCIENCE SEN SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS 30 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.

SOUTHEND-ON-SEA

WITHAM 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

Want to advertise to over 68,000 families in South Essex?

If so, call Anna/Kate on 01371 238071 or view a rate card online at www.kidaround.biz

Tutoring

Kip McGrath Education Centres: Tuition at its best

If your child is between 4-18 years and you believe they would benefit from one-to-one tuition, call your local tuition centre and mention KidAround for a free assessment.

Do you feel your child could benefit from extra tuition to help build their confidence to deal with the school syllabus in English and mathematics?

Here is what some satisfied parents have to say about Kip McGrath: “My daughter Molly has been coming to Kip McGrath for several months and absolutely loves every single week. Her enthusiasm for learning has increased volumes, and her actual ability in what she has learnt has improved in vast amounts.

Her test results at school have been massively improved. All of the staff at the centre are very helpful and friendly and Molly has been made to feel very welcome and at ease. I would recommend the centre to anyone needing a tutor.”

“My son used to struggle with maths on and off and as a result he lost all interest in the subject. Considering he would be doing his GCSEs next year this is not an option. However since he started with Kip McGrath, the change is nothing short of a miracle. He has improved so much in his work and attitude to the work. His confidence with maths is a joy to see. I got a work report from his maths teacher in school, stating that “Boluwa is doing exceedingly well in maths and is actually helping his fellow students with their problems with Algebra.” His confidence, enjoyment and motivation for the subject is an absolute joy to see. I attribute this marked change to the staff of Kip McGrath for their patience, the fact that children are treated with great respect and their individuality been taken into account when tutoring and dealing with them. I am so impressed with the service and results seen in my first child that I have enrolled my second child with Kip McGrath as well.”

“Kip McGrath has helped my daughter improve in her English (reading and writing) and given her more confidence in school.

Their tutors are very dedicated, helpful, professional, efficient and approachable. They are a wonderful organisation providing an excellent academic support for children.”

Did you know that children can lose on average two months’ worth of knowledge over the summer months if their brains are not actively engaged in educational activities?

Of course their brains do need a break from school work, but the summer holidays are also the ideal time to fix any problems that they may have been having with maths or English, especially if important exams are looming in the coming academic year.

Kip McGrath’s aim is to have your child ready to return to school in September with a positive attitude. A little extra support over the summer should mean that they do not lose all the knowledge they gained in the previous term and will make sure they are at the required level for the new school year.

Over the summer holidays there are a variety of summer schools and programmes which you can sign up for. Please contact your nearest centre to find out more about the courses and the dates they are running.

Kip McGrath education centres: Basildon: Breggie Rautenbach 01268 556700 Billericay: Sam Magee 01277 621515 Brentwood: Schalk and Jana Meyer 01277 200919 Southend East: Nicole O’Shea 01702 615838 Southend West: Nicole O’Shea 01702 557177

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Tutoring

Enjoy the benefits of summer study and beyond with Kumon Summer holidays are often jam-packed with energetic activities for children including bike riding, dancing, football and trips to the beach. But it is just as important to keep their minds active over the holidays as well as their bodies. Having long breaks from study means children can sometimes require extra support to get back into the routine of daily study and they may be out of practice when the new school year comes around.

Ensuring they continue educational activities throughout can mean they are confident, equipped and ready to tackle new work when they go back to school.

Established for over 50 years, daily study of the Kumon Maths and English Programmes can make all the difference when it comes to keeping the brain active between school terms, as well as throughout the year. As a new school year approaches, it’s especially important that your child gets to grips with the core subjects of maths and English, as well as the vital learning skills which can take students beyond their school level.

Kumon develops children through the acquisition of independent learning skills, rather than teaching in the conventional sense. Your child will therefore be equipped with the ability to learn for themselves so they do not become dependent on – or limited by – the skills and knowledge of others.

The summer holidays provide an ideal opportunity for your child to settle into their new routine of daily Kumon study, before getting off to a flying start in the new school year.

There are numerous Kumon study centres located across North Essex. For more information and to find your local centre, call 0800 854 714 or visit Kumon.co.uk.

32 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Tutoring

Award-winning tuition in Essex!

“The hesitancy and lack of confidence that held her back is gone. Now she tries new things with relish. She counts the days until she can come back here!”

Christina, Parent.

You may not normally expect children to be this enthusiastic about maths and English, but at Explore Learning Centres across the UK, thousands of children are benefiting from a unique style of tuition. The service has proved so popular in Essex that a new centre has recently opened in Colchester, adding to the 112 existing sites around the country.

Explore Learning Centres provide maths and English tuition to 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities, and also run special courses in 11+ exam preparation and creative writing. The Centres are open 7 days a week, and are Ofsted registered, meaning that families can use Childcare Vouchers to pay for membership.

Children attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis, meaning that Explore tuition fits easily into busy family life as there is no need to book in advance.

As Explore members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme tailored to meet their needs, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum. Explore has been given a number of awards, including the Education Investor Award for Private Tuition Centre Operator of the Year 2014. In addition to this, independent efficacy studies have demonstrated that Explore members make significant progress in both maths and English, as a result of attending.

“Darcey enjoys attending sessions, her confidence has grown and it has benefited her concentration skills immensely. Darcey’s teachers at school have also noticed these improvements. All this and she leaves in a happy mood skipping and smiling too!”

Susan, Parent Try Explore Learning for free to find out how your family can benefit! Arrange a free trial session at your local centre today. One of their excellent tutors will work with your child, and demonstrate how exciting maths and English can be. To book, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk or call your local centre to discuss your child’s individual needs in detail.

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Let’s Party

ACTIVITY PARTIES

Animal Workshops Exotic and pet

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

Birthday parties at Belchamps

Any day between 9am and 5pm.

Choose activities, catered or self-catered 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 3 for more information 01708 688517 www.laser-mayhem.co.uk

Little Scrummers Rugby Exciting

tag rugby themed parties for 2-9yr olds with games, prizes and much more!

07738 591232 www.littlescrummers.com

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 Skiing & Tubing Parties An hour’s exhilarating fun consisting of Skiing & Tubing, fully supervised. Beginners welcome. Please call: 01277 211994 – info@brentwoodskicentre.co.uk

SoundMagic Studios For details

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

CREATIVE PARTIES

The Glazed Look Pottery painting

parties for small or large groups. Open 7 days a week 10am to 5pm.

See ad on p8 for more details or call 01245 290300 or 07572 283 835 www.theglazedlook.co.uk

PARTY PLACES

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.

Froggle Parties Specialising in entertainers, party bags and supplies, balloons decorations, free invites, and more! They provide parties that are high energy and non stop fun! As seen on CBBC! www.froggleparties.com Tel: 0208 617 9070

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Let’s Party

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Get Active Stubbers Adventure Centre Multi activity adventure days and weeks for 6 to 16 year olds with parents joining in for free (terms apply). 4 adventurous activities in 90-minute sessions each day.

A varied activity programme is chosen from land, motor, towers and water sports activity areas. 01708 224500

SKIING

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

DANCE

Dance classes in Hutton on a Saturday at the Scout Hall, Wash Road, Hutton.

All ages from 2.5 years. Exams with IDTA and shows. 07817 983863 www.fusiondanceschool.co.uk Street Dance / Hip-hop for ages 7-21yrs. Saturdays & Tuesdays in Epping. Thursdays in Chelmsford for 3-21 years. 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 Debut School of Performing Arts Dance, sing, act. Fun for 3-18s! Free trial places currently available at The Debut School of Performing Arts, Brentwood, Hutton & Shenfeild. 01277 260771 www.debutschool.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 Razzamataz Theatre School Saturday classes for 4-17’s. Sweyne Park School, Rayleigh. Free trial Sessions.

07787 570760 / 01268 683512 rayleighwest@razzamataz.co.uk www.razzamataz.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

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

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 Stubbers Adventure Centre Multi-activity adventure days and weeks for 6 -16 years with parents joining in for free (terms apply). Each day comprises 4 adventurous activities (90 minutes).

A varied activity programme is chosen from their land, motor, towers and water areas. 01708 224500

PLAY

Little Monkees Unique, safe, clean, fully-padded play area. Structured sessions, from 4 months - 3yrs.

Upminster: Tues, Hornchurch: Wed, Billericay: Thurs, Hutton: Fri. 01277 211065 or 07837 170602

RUGBY

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

Debut School of Performing Arts The World OF Roald Dahl workshop from 25th - 28th August for ages 3 - 16 Limited places, pleaase contact The Debut School of Performing Arts, Brentwood, Hutton & Shenfeild.

01277 260771 www.debutschool.co.uk Holiday Club at Thriftwood Campsite and Activity Centre with 16 activities and qualified instructors. Call 01277 212784 or visit www.thriftwood.org.uk Razzamataz Theatre School Summer School at Razzamataz Rayleigh: 27th – 31st July, ages 4 – 16. Create a show in a week! See ad on page 10.

Limited availability - Book now!

07787 570760 / 01268 683512 rayleighwest@razzamataz.co.uk www.razzamataz.co.uk Stubbers Adventure Centre Multi-activity adventure days and weeks for 7 to 16 year olds. 4 adventurous activities in 90-minute sessions each day.

A varied activity programme is chosen from land, motor, towers and water sports activity areas. Also available, specialist water sports week and new Commando week.

01708 224500

36 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Children Learn to Ski Morning, A fun and supportive environment enabling your child to have a great time on the slopes, learning new skills and making lots of new friends. Saturday’s 10:00– 12:00. Contact: 01277 211994 info@brentwoodskicentre.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

Advertise to over 68,000 families in South Essex from as little as £85.

Call Anna/Kate on 01371 238 071 for more information

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. £6 (adult ticket not required).

Queens Theatre, Hornchurch.

01708 443333

Maldon Theatretrain Stage School and Agency Weekly Performing Arts Classes for 3 – 18 year olds Weekly Advanced LAMDA classes in Musical Theatre and Acting.

Mark Everard HNDip Theatre ATCL DipVCMEd 01621 850274 maldon@theatretrain.co.uk

Razzamataz Theatre School’s Minis Group

4-6 years. Sweyne Park School, Saturdays 9-10am Sweyne. Book now on 01268 683512 / 07787 570760 or email rayleighwest@razzamataz.co.uk

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

PRE/POST NATAL EXERCISE

Little Otters Antenatal Aquayoga

For more information contact Chelmsford classes: Jan 07919 414494 jan@aqua4baby.co.uk www.aqua4baby.co.uk or 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 grown-ups at your local library. www.essex.gov.uk/libraries

Friday Fives

Stories and nursery rhymes for fives and under, Chelmsford Museum, phone 01245 605700 for details, £3 per child

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

Beanstalk Children’s Therapy

Occupational Therapy and Speech & Language Therapy for children Tel: 07825 300560 www.beanstalktherapy.co.uk

SWIMMING 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

www.kidaround.biz • Summer 15• South Essex • 37

CHELMSFORD Dovedale Nursery

Chelmsford College Moulsham St. Campus 01245 293045 Pat Cox www.dovedale-nursery.co.uk

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Kiddi Caru

10 Victoria Court New Street 01245 505323 chelmsford@kiddicaru.com www.kiddicaru.com

s BASILDON Seymour House Day Nursery School

Fobbing Farm Close 01268 464 422 Claire Hill-Burton basildon.hospital@seymourhouse.co.uk www.seymourhouse.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

Oakdin Montessori Kindergarten Ltd

67 Perry Street 01277 633055 www.oakdinmontessori.com oakdin67@gmail.com Mrs Shahida Shah

sT* BRENTWOOD Hopscotch Day Nursery School Road Kelvedon Hatch 01277 372826 Jan Swift www.hopscotchdn.co.uk

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Phoenix Day Nursery

Merrymeade Chase CM15 9BG 01277 260893 Rachel Thomas info@phoenix-daynursery.co.uk www.phoenix-daynursery.co.uk

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Rainbow Pre-School Chelmer Village Hall 07901 886488 Sarah Smith www.rainbowps.co.uk

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Seymour House Day Nursery School

Broomfield Road CM1 1RN 01245 492642 Leanne Cooper broomfield.road@seymourhouse.co.uk www.seymourhouse.co.uk

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Advertise your childcare business in KidAround from just £85 per year and reach over 120,000 targeted audience.

Call Kate on 01371 238 071 to be in the august issue.

38 • Summer 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz

Seymour House Day Nursery School

230 Summerfield Road CM2 6BP 01245 495455 Jess Poulter Summerfield.road@seymourhouse.co.uk www.seymourhouse.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

5, Tree Works Baker’s Lane 01277 841424 Diane Middleton jackandjill.dn@gmail.com www.jackandjilldn.wix.com/westhanningfield

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Childcare The Stables Nursery

Mararetting Road Galleywood 01245 348159 Susan Mann www.thestablesnursery.co.uk

sT* GREAT BADDOW Woodcroft Nursery School

Dorset Avenue 01245 473222 Mrs H. Roberts www.woodcroft-nur.essex.sch.uk

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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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INGATESTONE Wright Start Day Nurseries Ltd 52 Fryerning Lane 01277 356885 Carly Wright www.wrightstartdaynurseries.co.uk

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LAINDON

NORTH FAMBRIDGE

Willowfield Pre-School

Deerlands Day Nursery

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

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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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Small Steps Day Care

Little Wycke Farm 01621 828767 Sarah Roe www.smallstepsdaycare.co.uk

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Ferry Road 01621 744041 Heidi Cook www.deerlandsdaynursery.co.uk

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Stondon Road 01277 362211 igherghi2000@yahoo.co.uk www.abcnursery.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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ROXWELL

Writtle College Kiddi Caru

Roxwell Preschool

Memorial Hall The Street 07970 750484 April Little www.roxwellpreschool.co.uk aprillittle123@btinternet.com

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

sT WICKFORD Church Road SS11 8SH 01268 769522 Jenna or Natalie admin@thedaynursery.org.uk www.thedaynursery.org.uk

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Salcott Crescent SS12 9NR Caroline Clark 01268 766 126 X@seymourhouse.co.uk www.seymourhouse.co.uk

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ONGAR ABC Nursery, Pre-School & After School Club

The Day Nursery

Seymour House Day Nursery School

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s DAY CARE T SESSIONAL CARE y AFTERSCHOOL CLUB h CHILDMINDER l BREAKFAST CLUB * HOLIDAY CLUB H CRECHE

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