Contents This Spring 5 News & Views 8 Active Kids
Seasonal Special 14 Great Days Out
What’s On 18 Diary Dates 20 Theatre Listings
Welcome to
Spring
Education Matters
Spring has sprung (well nearly), colour is starting to burst through and the days are getting a little longer (don’t forget clocks go forward on 28 March). With the weather hopefully getting a little milder, it will be great to do more outside again. Take a look at our Great Days Out feature p14 for ideas for you and your family – lots of local attractions and places to visit in and around Essex. The Active Kids feature on p8 is a comprehensive list of ideas to get your kids up and about, trying new things, and having fun. One for your diary - Mothers Day is on 29th March. I hope you all get spoilt and take time to relax. I personally love handmade cards and pictures from my daughter. I’m not so keen on the burnt toast and cold tea. However, I will smile and pretend that it’s the best breakfast I have ever had (like us mums do) just to see the BIG smile on her face. This March marks my first anniversary as Publisher of KidAround. How quick the time has gone. I hope you have enjoyed my first three issues as much as I have enjoyed making them – I look forward to working on many more! Happy Easter and enjoy Spring
Contact Us
(we are a friendly bunch) Publisher: Anna Hurley anna.hurley@kidaround.biz Sales Manager: Kate Ellison kate.ellison@kidaround.biz Listings Editor: Suzanne Gardner suzanne.gardner@kidaround.biz Social Media: Tina Read tina.read@kidaround.biz Tel: 01371 238071
Don’t forget to say you found it in KidAround Magazine, it really does help! KidAround is published quarterly by Trew Publishing Ltd. Address: 66 Baynard Avenue, Little Dunmow, Essex, CM6 3FD Tel: 01371 238071 | email: info@kidaround.biz Circulation: over 120,000 - two Essex editions. 4 • Spring • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz Winter 15 14/15 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz
21 Schools 24 Private Tutors
Family Life 26 Get Active 27 Let’s Party
Early Years
28 Beauty, Bump & Baby 29 Childcare
Giveaways - page 6
Family tickets to Alton Towers Driving experience Books For more competition visit www.kidaround.biz
News & Views
Muddy Good Fun
If you’re looking for a fun, unique challenge while helping your local hospices then look no further. Held in the historic site of Old Leigh, running out from Bell Wharf and turning at Two Tree Island powering your way through some of the thickest mud in the Estuary, they dare you to try and stay clean. The Island to Island Mud Run is for over 16 years only. With the addition of the smaller family 600m Fun Mud Run which goes out from Bell Wharf and alongside Leigh Creek and back through thick, soft mud, everyone can take part and enjoy the fun. A chance for kids to be kids and adults to act like kids! Places are strictly limited so book now at www.havenshospices.org.uk/mudrun2015 to avoid disappointment. For enquiries contact Jason on 01702 220356 or email jcurtis@havenshospices.org.uk or Susie May on 01702 220357 smay@havenshospices.org.uk When a family has been told that there’s no cure for their loved one’s illness, Havens Hospices can help. They’re there to make the journey as comfortable as possible, controlling pain and medication, offering respite and caring for adults, babies, children and teenagers at the end of their lives. The specialist care is free – for as long as is needed – within the home and at our two hospices. They are a registered charity – not part of the NHS, and receive limited government funding. Their hospices can only exist because of the support and generosity of the community. ‘Together, we’re making every day count.’ Havens Hospices incorporates Fair Havens Hospice and Little Havens Hospice. For other great events they have going on this year, please visit our website www.havenshospices.org.uk/events
WIN £500 For Your School
The Meadows Shopping Centre in Chelmsford are giving their local primary schools the chance to win a fabulous prize, as £500 worth of equipment is up for grabs in their Shop for Schools campaign. The campaign kicks off on Monday 16th March and runs through until Friday 17th July. Parents, carers, friends and family will be able to collect a token for every £10 they spend in the Meadows shops, restaurants and cafés. Tokens can then be used to vote for their nominated school by posting into the Shop for Schools collection box located in the middle of the Meadows shopping centre. At the end of the campaign the school that’s collected the most tokens will receive £500 worth of equipment plus there’s also £100 worth of equipment for the lucky runner-up. Located in the heart of Chelmsford city centre, the Meadows offers visitors a great shopping experience, they’ll find unique independent retailers alongside favourite national brands such as Fat Face, Warehouse, BHS and Giraffe. And not forgetting something for the kids as the Odeon cinema is located opposite. Make sure your child’s school is nominated to be part of the Meadows Shop for Schools to be in with a chance of winning! For further details visit the Meadows website www.themeadows.co.uk or find them on Facebook.
www.kidaround.biz •Spring 15 • South Essex • 5
Competitions
WIN a family pass to
Alton Towers Resort
and Experience The Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure Dive into CBeebies Land in 2015 and join Captain Barnacles and crew as The Octonauts head to Alton Towers Resort with a brand new attraction. The Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure opens on Saturday 21st March and will see little thrill seekers ride on ‘My First Coaster’ as they board the convoy of GUPs for a rescue mission with some of their favourite characters. Through interactive elements children will be able to discover some fascinating sea creatures and learn about some of the Octonauts most exciting missions as they take a tour of the Octopod. Learn about the Octonauts mission to explore new underwater worlds, rescue amazing sea creatures and protect the ocean before heading to the launch bay to join the GUP convoy with Captain Barnacles in the driving seat. On your roller coaster adventure help Peso rescue a baby whale, give Dashi a wave as you pass her camera and look out for some cool creatures hidden on the sea floor! The Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure joins other CBeebies favourites at Alton Towers Resort including Postman Pat’s Parcel Post, In the Night Garden Magical Boat Ride and Mr. Bloom’s Allotment. CBeebies Land include rides, immersive play areas, live experiences, character appearances and is a fun and safe environment for pre-schoolers to play and learn. Alton Towers Resort re-opens on Saturday 21st March 2015 and under 4s visit for free. For more information and to save up to 25% on tickets visit www.altontowers.com/cbeebiesland. To celebrate the opening of The Octonauts Rollercoaster Adventure, KidAround has been given three family passes to giveaway to our readers. To be in with a chance of winning, please email your name, address & contact number to comps@kidaround.biz or visit www.kidaround.biz
WIN The Ultimate Driving Experience
One lucky winner and their guest will win an experience worth £129 - if you’re 12 years or older, you can get behind the wheel of any 3 of our amazing supercars, including a Lamborghini, Ferrari, Porsche 911 Turbo, Audi R8 and more. Driving 3 laps in each of them (under 12’s will have a trained driver). Professional instructors ensure you get the maximum from your experience. Prize details: To enter, email your name, address & contact number to comps@kidaround.biz competition closes on 24 April 2015. A winner and guest will each experience 3 laps per car in a choice of 3 different super cars at North Weald Airfield, Essex. T&C’s: Winner will be chosen from entrants via Kidaround magazine. No employees of the publication or publisher, family or related third parties will be allowed to enter. Editors decision will be final and no cash alternative is linked with this promotion. The prize must be redeemed within 6 months of being informed of their prize.
*Competition closes on 1st May 2015. The family pass consists of four tickets valid from March 21st – November 8th, 2015 excluding concerts and special events. The pass is for entrance to the theme park only and does not include food or drink. Tickets are non transferable. Please visit www.altontowers.com for full terms and conditions and for more information.
Book reviews by local children Hurricane Betsey by Malorie Blackman RRP £5.99 Random House There are four mini stories in this book. I like the first one best of all. The story was about a young girl called Betsey and she insists things are hers just because they are lying around. But they are there for a reason. The characters are Betsey, Prince (the dog), Sherena, Desmond, Grandma Liz, mum and uncle George. My favourite part is when uncle George taught Betsey a lesson not to take things that are not yours. He says “Oh! I found this girl sitting here it has got nobody’s name on her! So she is mine!” I rate this book 3 and a half stars out of 5. Reviewed by Henry Winton aged 8
Wooley & Tig Finger Puppet Book by James Brian RRP £6.99 Random House The pages are very thick and sturdy so she cannot break it no matter how much she insists on dragging it around with her. She loves Woolly and so doesn’t put this down and has now tried to start counting - only to 3, but it’s a start. I love the fact the pages can also be wiped clean and won’t be destroyed by spilt food and drink. At the moment she has it out all day as it doesn’t get her off to sleep because she gets far too excited but this is probably due to her age. As she grows she will understand more of what is being said and will hopefully become a bedtime favourite. I personally loved the simple poetic rhymes and we will continue to read this to Ashlea for a long time yet. Reviewed by Ashlea Read and her mum
6 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
The Grindle Witch by B. J. Myers RRP £10.99 Orion Children’s Books The Grindle Witch is one of the best books I have ever read! The story is very imaginative, descriptive and intense. It is about a boy called Jack Jolly and his friends Paddy and Leila living in the village of Grindle. The friends work together to try to defeat the evil Grindle Witch. I think this book is suitable for children aged 10 years and older. Reviewed by Jacob Marshall Age 10
Stinkbomb and Ketchup-Face and the Quest for the Magic Porcupine. By John Dougherty RRP £5.99 Oxford University Press I liked this book a lot. I hadn’t read any of their other books but this didn’t matter and I’m going to definitely read the next one. It’s not like any other book I have read. I thought it was very funny but sometimes a little confusing. This didn’t stop me from enjoying it. All the characters were entertaining, even my big brother age 11 and my mum liked reading it too. I give it 4/5 Reviewed by Deven Brew
Ten Terrible Dinosaurs by Paul Strickland RRP £6.99 Random House We really enjoyed reading this book. The illustrations are lovely and bright and it is written in a pacy verse. We counted the dinosaurs backwards from 10 to 1 together as we read and much fun was had from shouting out the next number each time! Suitable from around 12 months this is both great fun and an excellent counting aid. Brilliant. Reviewed by Samantha Kilpatrick (Mum) and Abbie, age 2. Polly & the Puffin by Jenny Colgan RRP: £5.99 LB books for kids ‘Mummy reads the book to me and my brother, Rhys, every night before bed. My favourite bit was when Polly follows the feathers to the top of the Lighthouse rocks and finds Neil and his friend in their nest. I also liked the bit where Polly took care of Neil after he crashed into her house during the storm. The funniest bit was when Polly offered him her Lollipop. Reviewed by Erin Littlefield aged 4
News & Views
Active Kids Theatretrain – Act, Dance, Sing
Do you want your child to have three hours of fun and learning on a Saturday while you do the chores and queue in Tesco! Well Theatretrain may be the answer to your prayers. Theatretrain Chelmsford accepts children from the age of 6 whilst Theatretrain Maldon accepts children from the age of 3 years and they provide weekly classes in drama, singing and dancing in an exciting and fast paced environment. The classes are fun; they build confidence and develop children’s imagination, as well as providing them with excellent basic training in all three disciplines. Theatretrain offers a free trial session and are 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. There is a buddy system to help new students settle into the centre and an assistant that stays with their youngest members to offer support when and if it is required. All staff are DBS checked and there is always a first aider onsite. The pupils wear black leggings, a black t-shirt and soft-soled trainers or plimsoles, so no expensive uniform. Theatretrain likes to offer its pupils the opportunity to perform, so this is a great time to go along to see what they have to offer. They are just about to begin a new project for the summer when Chelmsford Theatretrain shall be performing locally for their summer show and Maldon Theatretrain for their show at the Royal Albert Hall in September. 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)
Keep Your Little Ones Active
Did you know just how much family fun there is to be had when your active under 6 joins Little Scrummers Rugby Club? You will soon see that the exciting lessons given indoors and outdoors on Saturday mornings can be made into fun family activities whenever and wherever you want! There are many other advantages to joining Little Scrummers Rugby: at the weekly 45-55 minute sessions, the children gain confidence, improve their gross motor skills, communication and behaviour at these fun filled sessions by fully qualified coaches who play and/or coach at their own local rugby clubs. So if you have pre-school children who have loads of energy, who love running around and mixing with other children, then sign up for a *free trial session* to see if it’s the right fit for you and your family. 07738 591232 | mail@littlescrummers.com | www.littlescrummers.com
8 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Active Kids
All inclusive Summer Camp at Stubbers Adventure Centre
Stubbers offers 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, 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, and 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 •Spring 15 • South Essex • 9
Active Kids Academy Arts Theatre School & Agency
Academy Arts Theatre School and Agency have hugely successful and thriving branches in both Chelmsford & Epping. This dynamic performing arts school, was founded in 2007 by principal Nina French, who has worked in the industry for 20 years. It is managed and taught by West End professionals with a high success rate for launching stars. Former Academy Arts Students have gone on to success in TV including Danny-boy Hatchard who currently stars in Eastenders as ‘Lee Carter’ and many have gone on to perform in West End productions. Whether it is your intention to pursue the arts as a career, or you want to be part of a dynamic group of young performers to have fun and make friends, Academy Arts has something for everyone. 2015 productions: ANNIE JR: They are currently taking on new members at the Chelmsford branch to be part of the cast.(Show: 13th & 14th June 2015) The Drowsy Chaperone (Epping Branch): 18th-19th April 2015, Glass Box Theatre, Harlow College. Book tickets www.positickets.co.uk To book your free trial please contact Academy Arts on 01245 422595 or apply via our website www.academyarts.co.uk Fulfil your potential...
Little Otters Baby Swimming
Little Otters is a small friendly swim school run by Jan and Michelle. Parents themselves, their philosophy is that babies and children have fun. Lessons are designed around the natural and holistic Birthlight method, starting with parent and baby bonding, water confidence and progressing at each baby’s own pace. Children with a parent in the water can learn through the fun, songs and games to love the water, be safer around water and eventually learn to swim small independent distances. Please visit them at www.little-otters.com if you wish to find out more.
Razzamataz Theatre School
Getting children to exercise regularly is not always easy! The physical benefits of taking part in regular exercise are what makes Razzamataz so popular with parents and children alike. Classes are fun and keep children fit and active without them even realising it! Performing Arts has also been shown to have a significant impact on improving literacy levels in children as it stimulates creativity, assists language development and communication skills. At Razzamataz Rayleigh, children learn to better express themselves which leads to increased confidence and self-esteem. Everyone will have the chance to shine in their forthcoming production of Bugsy Malone! For a Free Trial Session call Catherine on 01268 683512 / 07787 570760 or email her at rayleighwest@razzamataz.co.uk
10 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Barracudas Activity Day Camps
Active Kids
“Giving every child such an amazing experience they can’t wait to come back!”
Experience Laser Madness A brand new state of the art, purpose built laser tag arena in Basildon offering kids parties, adult parties, pay & play, team building, exclusive hire and bespoke packages to meet your requirements. Join them in the challenge to fight your opponents in the fantastic multitiered arena. With passageways, multiple levels, amazing futuristic graphic images, inspiring lighting and pumping sound effects, you’ll be blown away! Play on your own or as part of a team to capture enemy bases whilst protecting your own. There are no uncomfortable vests to wear at Laser Madness. Players just need to be a minimum age of 6 and able to hold the laser gun and shoot. Pay & play from £5, parties from £13.95, Twilight Madness evenings and special events throughout the year – there’s something for everyone! Open 7 days a week from 9.30am – 10pm. There is a dedicated reception area with free WiFi, comfortable seating, and a café serving hot & cold drinks and snacks. The laser arena has CCTV which can be viewed in the reception area for your enjoyment and safety of the players. Laser Madness also benefits from free off-street parking. Follow them on Facebook to be the first to hear about Laser Madness events and special offers. Laser Madness is located above the Monkey Madness Playcentre, at 36 Miles Gray Road, Basildon, Essex, SS14 3GN. 01268 288211. www.facebook.com/lasermadnessbasildon www.lasermadness.co.uk
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Superb Easter & 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 Easter and 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 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 Hutton Manor Easter: 30th March – 10th April Easter: 30th March – 10th April Summer: 27th July – 21st August Summer: 27th July – 28th August Chigwell School Woodford County High School Easter: 30th March – 10th April Easter: 7th April – 17th April Summer: 27th July – 28th August Summer: 27th July – 21st August Brentwood County High Summer: 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 • Spring 15• South Essex • 11
Active Kids Act, Sing, Dance & Fun
The Debut School of Performing Arts runs its exciting classes in Shenfield and Brentwood for 3 - 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 - Debut’s new school has free Easter trials. Spaces are limited so book your space now! For more information call 01277 260771 or visit their website: www.debutschool.co.uk
Smart Steps School of Dance
For children aged 3 ½ to 18 years with classes in ballet, tap, modern jazz and street dance. A fun and friendly environment, the School is ideal for those looking to learn something new, have fun, keep fit and make new friends. The School follows the British Theatre Dance Association (BTDA) syllabus and has a 100% pass rate on the BTDA examinations, with many pupils achieving top marks. Dance teachers are fully qualified and registered. Headed by Julie Crutchfield, a professional dancer for many years, with over 16 years teaching experience, a BA in dance performance and a certificate in dance teaching. Children can also take part in annual shows and exams which build confidence and self-esteem. For more information on the School and the times of the classes, please visit www.smartsteps.vpweb.co.uk, email Julie_crutchfield@yahoo.co.uk or call 07834 243991
12 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
High Ropes and Adventure In Essex
With six ropes courses, a climbing wall, big 50m zip wire and 13m freefall jump, there is a great day out for everyone - whatever your ability. No head for heights? Then you can try archery, air rifles, water zorbing, tunnelling, assault course, orineteering or paintball target shooting? They even have their very own mobile climbing wall. Combine your visit with a trip to The Secret Nuclear Bunker too. They also have lots of New Party Ventures. To find out more, please check the website www.roperunners.co.uk 01277 888134
Tina Franklin Swim School
Founded in 1992 the Tina Franklin Swim School is one of the longest established swim schools in Chelmsford. Operating from Chelmsford County High School for Girls. Registered with the Amateur Swimming Association (A.S.A.), and delivering their Learn To Swim programme, they pride themselves on the quality of their lessons, delivered in a safe, structured and fun way. Swim teachers are all fully qualified, friendly and experienced. Class sizes are small, catering for non-swimmers to advanced, with lessons held Monday and Friday after school and Saturday mornings. For further details please contact Tina Franklin 07828 691097/ 01245 265919 E mail tinafranklin@blueyonder.co.uk
Active Kids PGL Adventure Holidays are so much more than just a holiday...
In so many ways, their holidays are a very special kind of fun. For a start, they’re adventures that are just for children. They can choose from a huge range of holidays at centres across the UK and France, so there’s a perfect holiday for every child. They get to try amazing activities and laugh with new friends and old, in the place that matters most – the great outdoors. For most, it’s their first time staying away from home and that’s what makes PGL experiences special too. In fact, it’s amazing what children can achieve when they challenge themselves. PGL understand that taking that first step as a parent can be daunting but they believe the rewards are worth it. That’s why they believe ‘adventure matters’ and why they would love you and your children more than ever to join the adventure in 2015. PGL holidays are all about your child gaining independence, confidence and meeting new people. Designed specifically for 7-17 year olds with options available in the UK and France. Parents of children at PGL really appreciate the ways in which they help children to stand on their own two feet, to explore their own personalities and to learn the social and practical skills fundamental to enjoying life better at every age – like making new friends and playing as a team. They enable children to have fun, explore and experience adventure as children are meant to – outside, naturally, within a safe environment. Part of the joy of a PGL holiday is the opportunity to be involved in lots of exciting, energetic activities your child may be unfamiliar with. Although there is no real danger attached to them, children gain great confidence from being involved in them, and often say the activities they found the scariest were the ones they really enjoyed the best! Rest assured that your child will settle in fast and will soon be busy having new experiences and making new friends. Safe in this knowledge, you can also enjoy the time your child is away and simply look forward to the many stories they’ll have on their return. Since 1957, over 8,000,000 children and parents have discovered what makes PGL the UK’s no.1 for children’s adventure and activity holidays. This year they hope you will too. With all activities, tuition, meals and accommodation included, and more choice than ever before including everything from birthday parties to 2, 3, 4 and 7 night breaks, their holidays offer incredible value for money. Plus their introductory* holidays start from only £99 per child. Visit the PGL Adventure Holidays website on www.pgl.co.uk/holidays to find more and to book.
www.kidaround.biz • Spring 15• South Essex • 13
Great Days Out Easter at Lee Valley Park Farms Visit Lee Valley Park Farms at Easter and see all the new arrivals with piglets, ducklings and chicks all expected to join the existing animals. Brand new for the 2015 season, the cheeky Meerkat family have a brand new habitat which is designed to replicate their natural environment and allows visitors to get up close to watch them scamper around their new home. Also opening just in time for Easter is a new outdoor play area. This includes a tractor themed slide, and farmyard themed climbing frame as well as models of hay bales and animals to clamber over. This is in addition to the existing indoor play area and exciting Toboggan Run. Lee Valley Park Farms offers a great day out for all the family throughout the year, with lots of fun activities for all ages to enjoy and a calendar of exciting events. There are hundreds of animals to meet, feed and handle including sheep, reindeer, pygmy goats, giant rabbits, rare breed pigs and long-necked llamas. After exploring the farms for hours the Orchard Café is the perfect pit-stop serving freshly prepared food and home baked cakes.
For more information on events at Lee Valley Park Farms go to www.visitleevalley.org.uk or call 01992 892 781
New Reptile House at Barleylands!
The South East’s largest reptile display collection is opening at Barleylands Farm Park this Easter in its own permanent Reptile House! Snakes Alive will be running daily handling sessions, talks and demonstrations and there’ll be over 50 enclosures with snakes, lizards, tortoises, amphibians and mini-beasts! Plus during the Easter Holidays from 30 March to 10 April discover all creatures great and small with egg-stra activities including lamb bottle feeding, an Egg Hunt with the Easter Bunny, and meeting farmyard babies galore, you might even see some live lambing! Barleylands is in Billericay, CM11 2UD. Tel: 01268 532253 For further details visit www.barleylands.co.uk
14 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Great Days Out
Let your child’s imagination run free at Essex Country Parks
Visit Essex Country Parks for fun, adventure, peace and tranquillity, and to let your child’s imagination run free. Essex County Council manages eight country parks across the county. There is something for everyone across the parks ancient woodland, lakes teeming with fish, thrilling playgrounds, perfect picnic spots and wildlife meadowland. During school holidays Country Parks staff put on exciting events for children, from pirate and jester schools to Easter bunny trails. Cllr Roger Hirst, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Libraries, Planning and the Environment, said: “Our Country Parks are an absolute gem. They are a fantastic place for families, walkers, runners, wildlife lovers and definitely children. “School holiday activities at Essex Country Parks are great value for money and guarantee your child an experience they’ll never forget.” Find out more about Essex Country Parks, including details of how to book events at www.visitparks.co.uk. Easter in the Country Parks Once school is out at Easter, it’s time to enrol for a day at pirate school at Cressing Temple. Budding Captain Blackbeards will learn how to tie a knot, walk a plank, throw ropes and hunt for treasure. Pirate school runs from 10am to 3.30pm from Tuesday 31 March to Wednesday 1 April. It costs £7.50 per person. Or if knights are more your child’s thing – send them to the St George and the Dragon Knight School, also at Cressing Temple. There your child will improve their dragon-fighting skills, including archery. They can enjoy a puppet show and follow special themed trails. This event takes place on Wednesday 8 April and Thursday 9 April, from 10am to 3.30pm, costing £7.50 per person. Knowing the names of wildflowers is pretty cool – join the Wildflower Walk at Belhus Country Park, on Wednesday 8 April, from 1.30pm to 4.30pm. The walk is for families and adults – not just children – and costs £5 per person. Bounce around the Springy Spring Trail at Thorndon Country Park South – explore the woods and enjoy the spring. Suitable for families, the trail is running from Saturday 28 March to Tuesday 31 March and Wednesday 1 April to Sunday 12 April, from 10.30am to 2.30pm. Pick up a trail guide for £3. Easter wouldn’t be Easter without the Easter Bunny! There’s an Easter Hop-a-long through the woods at Thorndon Country Park South on Good Friday. Suitable for children aged three to eight, the event starts at 10.30am on Good Friday (3 April) and costs £4 per child. The Easter Bunny will be meeting visitors at Danbury Country Park on Thursday 2 April – but first you will have to follow an egg-themed woodland trail. Children can have a go at egg painting and join in with an egg and spoon race. This event is for accompanied under-eights and costs £4 per child. There’s a staggered start from 11am. Booking is essential. To find out all the amazing events across Essex Country Parks visit: www.visitparks.co.uk
www.kidaround.biz • Spring 15• South Essex • 15
Great Days Out 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 plus the military museum covering fort army and navy history over the past 150 years plus a 38 ton Victorian RML replica gun. www.coalhousefort.co.uk 01375 844203
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
16 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Great Local Produce At Lathcoats Farm
Lathcoats Farm aims to provide their farm shop customers with their own delicious selection of fruit together with the best food from producers around our region. A family fruit farm since 1912, the award winning farm shop offers over 40 varieties of apples along with their selection of soft fruit all grown on their farm as well as great coffee, homemade cakes and light lunches in the Bee Shed Coffee House. The farm is located on the outskirts of Chelmsford . It’s well worth a visit. Contact 01245 353021 www.lathcoatsfarm.co.uk
Easter Fun At Essex Police Museum
The Essex Police Museum in Chelmsford has a new programme for toddlers called Blues and 2s. Once a month children aged between 2 and 4 years can take part in different police themed activities. The sessions start with a rhyme or story with reallife objects for children to play with. Then there is a trail to encourage little ones to explore the museum. And each session ends with a craft activity. The 45 minute sessions run on the second Thursday of each month starting at 10am and then repeated at 11.30am. It costs £2 per child and younger siblings are welcome. To book call 01245 457150 or visit facebook.com/epolicemuseum.
Great Days Out Take a family break in 2015 on a Stay Play Explore package £129
The 3foot People Festival - 30 June, 1 & 2 July 2015
Returns to Hylands Park to celebrate its 10th Anniversary. This award winning event (Best Event 2014 Essex Mums, Best Festival 2014 Essex Tourism and Hospitality Awards, Best Outdoor Event 2014 Runner Up Primary Times Star Awards) curated especially for preschool children, welcomes nearly 13,000 big (and little) people across 3 days within the beautiful grounds of Hylands Estate, Chelmsford. Parents, carers and children will be overwhelmed with wonder as they experience this unique Festival. The village of tents, tepees and domes will host an array of activities and performances to inspire and entertain all day long. Tickets will be available from 22 April, from 9am in person at Chelmsford Theatre’s box office (Fairfield Road) or from 7am online. In previous years tickets have sold out very quickly. Accompanied little people under 2 years old £4, 2 – 5 year olds & adult carers 16 years and older £9.50. Return bus tickets and car parking tickets available to purchase in advance. For more information, find ‘The 3foot People Festival’ on Facebook, or see www.chelmsford.gov.uk/3foot
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 • National Space Centre • Conkers Natural Forest • Twycross Zoo • Twin Lakes Theme Park • Stonehurst Family Farm *only from 1st April • Snibston Discovery Musuem *only until 31st March Booking couldn’t be easier, just choose which hotel you’d like to stay at and select your short break package dates now! For more information, to see availability and to book, please visit www.stayplayexplore.co.uk
www.kidaround.biz • Spring 15 • South Essex • 17
Diary Dates Sun 5 & Mon 6 April Easter Eggstravganza Follow a trail around the reserve plus pond dipping and minibeast hunting. Collect a prize and make an Easter themed craft. 11am-4pm. £6. Hanningfield Reservoir, CM11 1WT. www.essexwt.org.uk
Central Park, Chelmsford
BASILDON Sat 28 March – Sun 12 April Spring Fun Spring crafts plus look for tadpoles and watch the blue tits on CCTV camera as they prepare their young to fledge. 10am-4pm. Free, small donation requested for some activities. Wat Tyler Country Park, SS16 4UH Sun 5 April Easter Egg Hunt Find the hidden clues and answer the wildlife questions to win a chocolate egg. Plus Easter crafts. Suitable for accompanied children of all ages. 10am4pm. £6. Langdon Visitor Centre, SS16 6EJ www.essexwt.org.uk Tue 7 April Bug Hunting Drop in throughout the day to hunt for creepy crawlies in the grass, bushes and trees. 10am-4pm. £2. Langdon Visitor Centre, SS16 6EJ www.essexwt.org.uk Fri 10 April Kite Making Drop in throughout the day to make a kite. Why not try flying it out in our meadow afterwards? Accompanied children age 5+. 10am-4pm. £5/kite. Langdon Visitor Centre, SS16 6EJ www.essexwt.org.uk Fri 29 May Superheroes Challenge Come dressed as your favourite superhero and take part in a trail to discover the amazing special powers of wildlife. Plus craft and colouring activities. 10am-4pm. £2. Langdon Visitor Centre, SS16 6EJ www.essexwt.org.uk
BILLERICAY Sun 15 March Mums Come Free Free entry for all mums accompanied by one paying child. 10am to 5pm. Adults £11.50 (Mums free with a paying child), Children £10.50, under 2s free. Save 10% online. Barleylands Farm Park & Craft Village, CM11 2UD. 01268 532253 www.barleylands.co.uk. Mon 30 March – Fri 10 April Creatures Great and Small Brand new reptile house opens plus new babies galore, daily bottle feeding, live lambing and egg hunt with the Easter Bunny. 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
Fri 1 & Fri 22 May Wild Evening Out Learn about nocturnal wildlife, including bat detecting and pond dipping. Age: 6yrs+. 7.30-10.30pm. £10. Hanningfield Reservoir, CM11 1WT. www.essexwt.org.uk Sat 2 – Mon 4 May Animal Antics Weekend Sheep racing, bottle feeding, shearing shows and more. 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 25 – Fri 29 May Be a Farmer Week Join in special farmer activities including caring for and feeding the animals, growing vegetables and more. 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. Sun 31 May The Adventures of Mr Toad Join the characters from the classic book The Wind in the Willows as they try to help Toad out of his latest predicament. Timed trails from 12-4pm. £2. Hanningfield Reservoir, CM11 1WT. www. essexwt.org.uk BE
BRENTWOOD Sun 8 March NCT Nearly New Sale Top quality baby/children’s clothing and equipment at bargain prices. 10.30am12pm. Entry £1.50. Brentwood School Sports Centre, CM15 8EE. www.nct.org.uk/brentwood Sat 14 – Sun 22 March Wake Up Spring Day Buy a trail pack, tick off what you find, and claim a prize. 10am-3pm. £2. Weald Country Park, CM14 5QS www.visitparks.co.uk Sun 15 March Mad Scientist Day Celebrate National Science Week with a day of experiments and madness! Accompanied children only. 10am4pm. £5. Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QH. www.essexwt.org.uk Thur 19 March Birds and Bugs Make a bird or bug box. Age: 6yrs+, accompanied. 6.30-8pm. £6. Weald Country Park, CM14 5QS www.visitparks.co.uk BE Thur 2 April Easter in the Park Easter themed games, activities and crafts. Age: 5yrs+, accompanied. 10am12pm / 1.30-3.30pm. £5. Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QH. www.essexwt.org.uk BE
18 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Sun 5 April Easter Eggstravaganza Craft activities, Easter Trail and craft stalls. Accompanied children only. 10am4pm. £5. Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QH. www.essexwt.org.uk Sun 26 April Dino Day Dinosaur themed treasure hunt and crafts. Accompanied children only.10am4pm. £5. Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Havering-atte-Bower, RM4 1QH. www.essexwt.org.uk
CHELMSFORD Sat 7 Mar Mum2mum Market Nearly New Sales. 10am-12pm. Adults £2, children free. South Woodham Ferrers Village Hall, 25 Hullbridge Road, CM3 5PL www.mum2mummarket.co.uk Mon 16 March Shop for Schools Launch of the Shop for Schools campaign, giving local primary schools the chance to win £500 worth of equipment (£100 worth of equipment for the runner-up). Collect a token for every £10 spent at the Meadows and use it to vote for the school you would like to win. Meadows Shopping Centre, 42-47 High Street, CM2 6FD. 01245 346266. www.themeadows.co.uk. Free Event Sat 28 Mar Mum2mum Market Nearly New Sales. 2pm-4pm. Adults £2, children free. Hylands School, CM1 3DF www.mum2mummarket.co.uk Sat 28 March – Sun 12 April Springy Spring Trail Pick up a guide from the Pavilion Café and follow the trail. Suitable for families. 10:30am- 2:30pm. £3/trail guide. Thorndon Country Park South, CM13 3LW. 0845 6037624. www.visitparks.co.uk Sat 28 Mar – Sun 12 April The Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt Follow the clues towards a delicious treat! 10am - 5pm. Child £4.50, Adults £8.95. RHS Garden Hyde Hall CM3 8ET. 0845 265 8071. www.rhs.org.uk/hydehall Wed 1 April Make Walkie Talkies Meet police radio experts, and make a walkie talkie. Age: 5yrs+. 10am – 4pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum Thur 2 April Meet the Easter Bunny Egg themed trail, plus paint a hen’s egg, and egg and spoon race. Accompanied under 8’s. Staggered start from 11am. £4. Danbury Country Park, CM3 4AW. 0845 6037624 www.visitparks.co.uk BE Fri 3 April Easter Hop-a-long Hop along the trail through the woods. How much do you know about Easter and springtime? Collect a prize at the end. Age: 3-8yrs. 10.30am. £4 / child. Thorndon Country Park South, CM13 3LW. 0845 6037624. www.visitparks.co.uk BE
Wed 22 April 3Foot people Festival Booking Opening Booking opens today for the 3Foot People Festival (20th June, 1 & 2 July), the UK’s largest festival for pre-school children at Hylands Estate. Book online: www.chelmsford.gov.uk/3foot (from 7am) or in person at Chelmsford Theatre’s Box Office (from 9am). NB: Booking is not available by phone. Sat 25 April Nearly New Sale Good quality pre-owned baby to teens clothes, toys, books and nursery equipment. St John Payne School, Patching Hall Lane. £2 members (with card):12.30pm; non-members: 1pm. 01245 201121. nctsalechelmsford@gmail. com. www.nct.org.uk/nns Thur 7 May Blues and 2s: Cops and Robbers Rhymes, stories, trails and a craft activity. Ages 2 -4 yrs. 10 -10.45am / 11.30am -12.15pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum Mon 25 May Half Term Free Odeon Cinema Ticket Collect a free ticket for every £25 you spend at the Meadows during half term. Meadows Shopping Centre, 42-47 High Street, CM2 6FD. 01245 346266. www.themeadows.co.uk Free Event. Wed 27 May Make a Police Car Sit in a real police car and then make your own! Age: 5yrs+. 10am – 4pm. £2. Essex Police Museum, CM2 6DN. 01245 457150 www.essex.police.uk/museum
GRAYS Sat 4 & Sun 5 April Easter Fun Weekend Easter Egg hunt, Coconut Shy, Easter craft, badge making, face painting and tractor ride. 11am-1pm. Adult: £1, Child: £5. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, Grays, RM16 6RG. www.essexwt.org.uk Wed 8 April Super Superheroes Kryptonite race, Spiderman obstacle course, and bean bag attack. 1011.30am. £5. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, Grays, RM16 6RG. www.essexwt.org.uk
Diary Dates Thur 9 April Fool’s Gold and Gem Stone Panning Pan for your own fools gold and gems. Make some beaded jewellery to take home. 1-3pm. £5. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, Grays, RM16 6RG. www.essexwt.org.uk Wed 27 May Spikey Friends Discover the life of hedgehogs and learn how they survive in the wild. Includes hedgehog face painting, hedgehog box making and make a clay hedgehog. 1-3pm. £5. Chafford Gorges Nature Park, Grays, RM16 6RG. www.essexwt.org.uk
LONDON Mon 30 March - Thur 2 April & Tue 26 – Fri 29 May Star Track Course offering children age 8 - 12 years expert tuition in a range of athletics skills. Also a three day course for 6 - 8 years. 10am-2pm. £46. Lee Valley Athletics Centre, Edmonton, N9 0AR. 020 8344 7230 visitleevalley.org.uk BE Mon 30 March – Thur 2 April & Tue 7 – Fri 10 April EGGstraordinary Fun! Follow the trail to find the chicks and egg. Decorate an Easter animal finger puppet. (Chocolate egg for every child). 10am – 4.30pm. Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH. www.bankofengland.co.uk/museum 020 7601 5545. Free event Mon 30 March – Fri 3 April & Mon 6 – Fri 10 April Make Small Stories of Your Own! Create a picture book with awardwinning author and illustrator David Lucas. Age: 5-12yrs. 11am/1pm/2.45pm. £5/accompanied child. www.museumofchildhood.org.uk BE Sat 25 April St George’s Day Learn about English folk music and dance traditions plus arts & crafts. 11.30am-4.30pm. Museum of Childhood, E2 9PA www.museumofchildhood.org.uk Free event Sat 2 – Mon 4 May Country Show Entertainment which may include birds of prey, working dogs, children’s entertainment plus arts, crafts, gifts and food marquees. 10am – 5pm. Morden Hall Park, SM4 5JD. 01206 263088. www.oakleighfairs.co.uk
Tue 26 – Fri 29 May Magical Mosaics Learn about the colourful mosaics that decorate the ground floor of the Bank, then make your own mosaic. 10am – 4.30pm. Bank of England Museum, EC2R 8AH. www.bankofengland.co.uk/ museum 020 7601 5545. Free Event
MALDON Sun 15 March Antique Fair Stalls selling a wide range of antiques and collectables. Tearoom and miniature steam train rides (£1). Adult £2.50, children free. Starts 10am. Museum of Power, Langford CM9 6QA. 01621 843183 www.museumofpower.org.uk Sun 22 March Science Sunday Fascinating Mad Science demonstrations and children’s activities including Plasma Penny. Museum and tearoom open with miniature steam train rides (£1). Adult: £5, Senior: £4.50: Child: (5-15yrs) £2; under 5s free. Starts 10am. Museum of Power, Langford CM9 6QA. 01621 843183 www.museumofpower.org.uk Sun 5 April Transport Fest Gigantic pumping engine “Marshall” will be in steam! Displays of classic vehicles and old machinery, live music, craft stalls, model village plus miniature steam railway rides (£1). Museum and tearoom open. Adult £6, Senior £5, Children (5-15yrs) £2, under 5s free. Starts 10am. Museum of Power, Langford CM9 6QA. 01621 843183 www.museumofpower.org.uk Fri 10 – Sun 19 April Carters Steam Fair Promenade Park. Step back in time for all the fun of the fair, plus a fireworks finale. Details tbc www.carterssteamfair.co.uk Sun 3 May Steam Day & Garden Show See the giant pumping engine in steam plus other working exhibits. Miniature steam train rides (£1). Museum & tearoom open. Adults £5, Seniors £4.50, Children (5-15yrs) £2, under 5s free. 10am – 4pm. Museum of Power, Langford CM9 6QA. 01621 843183 www.museumofpower.org.uk Sun 31 May Olde Tyme Rally Classic vehicle and agricultural displays, craft stalls and family entertainment. Museum entry included. Miniature steam train rides (£1). Adult £6, Senior £5, Children (5-15yrs) £2, under 5s free. Starts 10am. Museum of Power, Langford CM9 6QA. 01621 843183 www.museumofpower.org.uk
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA Sun 15 March Iron Age Roundhouse Explore the replica Iron Age Roundhouse. 1-3pm. Hadleigh Country Park. SS7 2PP. www.visitparks.co.uk Free Event Sat 28 March Easter Event Arts and crafts, messy play, bouncy castles, face painting plus Easter Egg hunt. 11am-3pm. Leigh Community Centre, Leigh on Sea.
Wed 1 & Wed 8 April Spring Scavenger Hunt Head off on a hunt, find out more about wildlife, win a Spring surprise. Activities will include ditch dipping, minibeast hunting and more. Age: 4 – 11yrs. 11am. £6 per child. RSPB West Canvey Marsh, SS8 0PT. BE Thur 2 & Thur 9 April Wild Play Day Activities might include butterfly netting, mud cooking and water play. 11am-3pm. £2.50. RSPB West Canvey Marsh, SS8 0PT Sat 4 – Mon 6 April Spring Craft Fair Unique and handmade items, plus face painting and a special visit from the Easter bunny! Colouring competition for children of all ages, and a Charity Easter raffle. 10am-4pm. Southend Pier Royal Pavilion Sun 5 April Easter Sunday Fun Egg decorating, trails and hunts. 10am3pm.Small charge for crafts. Belfairs Woodland Centre, Leigh on Sea. www.essexwt.org.uk Sat 30 May Wildlife Day Guided walks, pond dipping, bug hunting, craft stalls. Refreshments avail. 11am-4pm. RSPB West Canvey Marsh, SS8 0QD. 01268 683971 www.canveyisland-tc.gov.uk. Free Event
THURROCK & TILBURY Fri 3 – Mon 6 April Easter Egg Trail Join the Easter egg trail and receive an Easter surprise. 10am-3pm. £5. Thurrock Thameside Nature Park, Stanford-Le-Hope, SS17 0RN www.essexwt.org.uk Sat 14 March Lantern Making Make and decorate a sparkly Spring lantern, take it home and light up your house! Belhus Country Park, South Ockendon, RM15 4XJ. 11am-12.30pm, 1.30pm-3pm. £5 per lantern/child. 0845 6037624. BE Sun 29 March Motor Cycle Day Themed special event day. 11am-5pm. £4 adults, £3 concessions, 50p child (5-16 yrs). Coalhouse Fort, East Tilbury, RM18 8PB. 01375 844203 www.coalhousefort.co.uk Mon 6 April 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 Wed 8 April Wildflower Walk Learn to identify wildflowers with expert Mary Smith. 1.30pm-4.30pm. £5. Belhus Country Park, South Ockendon, RM15 4XJ 0845 6037624 BE Sat 11 April Spring Market Browse local craft stalls and treat yourself to strawberries and cream. Belhus Country Park, South Ockendon, RM15 4XJ. 11am-5pm.
Sun 19 April Dawn Chorus Walk Join the rangers on an experience you won’t forget. Meet at visitors centre at 5am. £5. Belhus Country Park, South Ockendon, RM15 4XJ 0845 6037624 BE Sun 26 April 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 Mon 4 May 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 Wed 13 May Wildflower Walk Learn to identify wildflowers with expert Mary Smith. 1.30pm-4.30pm. £5. Belhus Country Park, South Ockendon, RM15 4XJ. 0845 6037624 BE Sat 23 – Sun 31 May Animal Detective Trail Work out which animals have been visiting the park. 10am-4pm. £3. Belhus Country Park, South Ockendon, RM15 4XJ 0845 6037624 Mon 25 May 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 Wed 27 May Kite Making Make a kite with the help of the rangers and then test it out in the park. 11am12.30pm, 1.30pm-3pm. Belhus Country Park, South Ockendon, RM15 4XJ. BE Sun 31 May 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 spring issue, please email the details to: diarydates@kidaround.biz
www.kidaround.biz • Spring 15 • South Essex • 19
Theatre Listings - family shows near you! BASILDON 29th March How the Koala Learnt to Hug
A charming new musical about the magic of family and, of course, the importance of a nice warm hug! 2.30pm. Adult: £9.50, Child: £8.50. Towngate Theatre 01268 465465
4th April Sing-along-a-Frozen
A full screening of the film with lyrics on screen to help you sing along with Anna and Elsa. Remember to dress up as your favourite character. 11am/3pm. Adult: £15, Child: £10. Towngate Theatre 01268 465465
26th & 27th May Ballet Gala
Vienna Festival Ballet celebrate 35 years of performing, with excerpts from favourite Tchaikovsky ballets. 7.30pm. Various prices. Towngate Theatre 01268 465465
CHELMSFORD 14th March & 18th April Comedy Club 4 Kids
The best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best... but without the rude bits! Age: 6yrs+. 2pm. Various prices. Cramphorn Theatre 01245 606505
For lots more theatre listings, visit: www.kidaround.biz
20 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
8th April Sing-along-a-Frozen
A full screening of the film with lyrics on screen to help you sing along with Anna and Elsa. Remember to dress up as your favourite character. Age: 3yrs+. 3pm/6.30pm. Civic Theatre 01245 606505
9th April The Chuckles of Oz
Dorothy, The Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and the Scarecrow are among the familiar characters who join the Wizards (Paul and Barry) for this new version of the familiar Wizard of Oz story. Age: 3yrs+. 2pm. Civic Theatre 01245 606505
SOUTHEND ON SEA 16th – 18th March Cat in the Hat
Based on the much-loved book by Dr Seuss, this play was originally produced by London’s National Theatre. Age: 3yrs+. Various times/prices. Palace Theatre 01702 351135
30th March – 1st April Dinosaur Zoo
From cute baby dinos to teeth-gnashing giants, observe and interact with extraordinary life-like dinosaurs in this imaginative and hilarious live show. Age: 3yrs+. Cliffs Pavilion 01702 351135
8th & 9th May The Tiger Who Came To Tea
26th April Tree Fu Tom
The tea-guzzling tiger is back on the road in this family show, packed with magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! Age: 3yrs+. Various times/prices. Civic Theatre 01245 606505
Welcome to the world of Treetopolis – try out Tree Fu and help Tom save the day! 1pm/3.30pm. Cliffs Pavilion 01702 351135
HORNCHURCH
2nd April The Wizard of Oz
30th & 31st March Swan Lake
The Moscow Ballet perform the fairy tale ballet. Various times/prices. Queen’s Theatre 01708 443333
4th May Sing-along-a-Frozen
A full screening of the film with lyrics on screen to help you sing along with Anna and Elsa. Remember to dress up as your favourite character. 12pm/3.30pm/7pm. Queen’s Theatre 01708 443333
THURROCK
Polka Dot Pantomimes return with a spectacular musical production of “The Wizard of Oz”. 1pm. Adult: £12; Child (under 16): £10. Thameside Theatre 0845 300 5264
7th April Pop Factor
Calling all Directioners! Mixers & Katy Cats! Are you a Belieber? Smash hits from all your favourite pop stars. Meet the cast after the show. 2pm. Various prices. Thameside Theatre 0845 300 5264
Schools & Education
The ‘Diamond Model’ School
Mrs Katherine Jeffrey, Principal, New Hall School In the national press recently, Mr Alun Jones, president of the Girls’ Schools Association, was quoted claiming that “every state school should consider introducing the diamond model and experiment with teaching boys and girls separately.” New Hall School in Chelmsford, Essex, has operated this unusual ‘diamond model’ structure since 2005. The move was pioneering for a school of this type and New Hall has unequivocally proven its merit. The diamond model provides the best of both worlds: the benefits of a co-educational environment beginning when they join the Preparatory School in Pre-Reception and for Sixth Form, together with the advantages of girls and boys being taught separately at Key Stages 3 and 4. The provision of single-sex education during adolescence enables students to grow in confidence, whilst enjoying an education that is specifically tailored and that recognises the different ways in which boys and girls learn. Over the past decade, the school roll at New Hall has increased from 580 students to over 1,100 today. With the introduction of boys to a formerly all-girls school when the diamond model was established, there have been some changes at New Hall but all have been undoubtedly positive. The enormous energy and emphasis on team sports that came with the arrival of the boys has transformed the sporting life of the school. Girls soon noticed the comradeship, team spirit, and regional/national success of the boys in rugby, cricket and tennis resulting in the meteoric rise of girls’ sports team, with regional/ national successes in a range of sports such as hockey, swimming, athletics and riding. In other areas, too, girls have become more competitive, without this changing the overall community ethos of the school. A number of new facilities have been provided, with the opening of two boarding houses for boys, a technology centre, a fitness suite and changing rooms, a new classroom block, extensive sports pitches, cricket wickets and indoor cricket facilities, and additional computer suites. Academic standards have continued to go from strength to strength since the introduction of the diamond model. In 2014, the largest ever cohort of New Hall students celebrated outstanding GCSE results, with 50% of students achieving A*-A grades and 80% achieving A*-B grades. Perhaps most notably, boys and girls achieved near identical results at the A*-A grade, in contrast to the national figure which has seen girls outperform boys at the top end by 10%. New Hall students receive offers to study at top universities. This year, this included four offers to read highly competitive subjects (Medicine, History and Classics) at Oxford and Cambridge Universities, with a 100% success rate for Year 13 Cambridge applicants. The diamond model of education has indisputably yielded great success in Essex. To book your place for the open day on Saturday 2 May 9am - 12pm visit www.newhallschool/openmorning or to arrange a visit to suit you, please call 01245 236098 www.newhallschool.co.uk
www.kidaround.biz www.kidaround.biz • Autumn • Spring 2014 15 • South Essex • 21
Schools & Education Life Long Learners
Hutton Manor School is an exciting place to learn. Boys and girls from the age of 3 months to 11 years want to go to school every day because they feel valued and challenged. They believe that if children enjoy school from a very young age that their love for learning will last a lifetime. The school aims to challenge and inspire children across all areas of the curriculum whilst equipping them to become valuable and caring citizens. Small class sizes ensure that the individual learning needs of each child is met, whilst specialist teaching offers the opportunity to achieve excellence. The inner confidence the children gain from the friendships they form and the experiences they have at school, make them into independent and self assured young people who love learning. Clubs play an important role in enriching the school curriculum. By offering extra school activities children get the chance to succeed in a different area, and this boosts their self-confidence. Happy, self-confident children are motivated and can achieve more academically. Pupils have dedicated speech and drama lessons, and diction and learning to speak correctly is an important part of their work. Parents are invited into the School to see their children perform regularly in plays and assemblies such as Harvest Festival, Christmas Nativity plays and the Mother’s Day Assembly giving all children the opportunity to shine. Hutton Manor also prides itself on the fact that in sport they are an inclusive school which believes in competition. Hutton Manor School is holding an Open Day on Saturday 14th March 2015 from 10:00am – 1:00pm. For further information please contact our Admissions Registrar, Debbie Cook on 01277 245595 or dc@woodlandsschools.co.uk or visit www.woodlandsschools.co.uk
22 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Schools & Education The Importance of Arts at School
Woodlands School places great emphasis on creative arts, using Music and drama to develop children’s confidence while encouraging them to perform. These subjects develop life skills as well as developing talents and a love for music and drama which will stay with them throughout their lives. The school in Great Warley operates an extended day which means they can offer extra music and drama to all of the upper school children. The Head Teacher, Barbara Harding commented “We celebrate each other’s successes each week at our weekly assembly, which parents are welcome to attend. Peers inspire one another to achieve their very best and children at Woodlands are encouraged to ‘have a go’ at everything and take risks. This builds confidence and ensures they achieve their individual potential.” Pupils stand up in front of their parents and peers with ease to perform musically and dramatically. All children are involved in one of the school productions; pupils have taken part in musicals, such as ‘Mary Poppins’ and ‘Matilda’, and even the youngest children have opportunities to entertain their parents with recitations of poems and displays of dancing. There is a dedicated drama and music studio equipped with instruments and children also benefit from a one to one lesson room for private tuition and practice. Visits to the theatre and workshops with professional actors in London all enhance the pupils’ learning. The children recently went to see ‘We Will Rock You’ for example and there is an extensive extra-curricular timetable with over 25 clubs taking place before and after school or in lunchtimes. Woodlands School, Great Warley have their Open Day on Friday 6th March 2015 from 9:00am – 12:00noon. For further information please contact our Admissions Registrar, Debbie Cook on 01277 245595 or dc@woodlandsschools.co.uk or visit www.woodlandsschools.co.uk
Ormiston Rivers Academy
A smaller than average, flourishing and oversubscribed 11-18 coeducational academy, set in a semi-rural, riverside location. They are part of the Ormiston Academies Trust family of schools. All Ormiston academies share the OAT ethos of: ensuring every child reaches their full potential: being aspirational and committed to academic excellence and being supportive yet courageous in its approach. They were delighted to be identified by Ofsted as a “Good” school in July 2013. Since then the Academy has continued to grow and in 2014 received an award in recognition of being in the top 10% of schools nationally for value-added. They are recognised as being well on course to achieve their goal of “Outstanding” at the next Ofsted inspection. The school truly believe in the potential of every child and strive to provide a positive learning experience, encouraging a lifelong enthusiasm for learning in all our students. They are also proud to be an integral part of the local and wider community and offer a wide variety of opportunities for their students to enjoy true “citizenship” within their local area. Their 2014 results confirmed our continual improvement, as 54% of students achieved five A* to C grades including English and Maths, an increase of 6% on the previous year. Recently issued league tables saw the Academy rise to 57th out of 88 Essex schools, a leap of 17 places on the tables issued at the beginning of 2014. For further details , including curriculum, Special Educational Needs and their Gifted and Talented programme please visit our website; www.ormistonriversacademy.co.uk To arrange a visit please contact Mrs Edwards, Admissions officer on 01621 787844
www.kidaround.biz • Spring 15• South Essex • 23
BRENTWOOD
ESSEX
Kip McGrath
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
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 North
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
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
LOUGHTON
ICT COMPUTING SCI SCIENCE
SOUTHEND-ON-SEA
Explore Learning
Tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Free trial session 01702 568808 www.explorelearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SEN 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 Drop-in sessions Thursdays 3:305:30pm and Saturdays 9:20-11:20am at Wick Neighbourhood Centre, Silva Island Way, Wickford SS12 9NR. Mrs Joanne Cooper 01245 329 650 wickford@kumoncentre ENG MAT
Drop-in sessions Mondays 4:00 – 6:00pm and Thursdays 4:00 – 6:00pm at Loughton Methodist Church, 260 High Road, Loughton, IG10 1RB Mr Roger Winn 020 8532 0638 loughton@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT
SAT SATs
Tuition for 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Free trial session 01708 767819 www.explorelearning.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SEN
Kumon
Explore Learning
ENG ENGLISH
MUS MUSIC
Explore Learning
Kip McGrath Southend West
HORNCHURCH
Kumon
Private tuition for children aged 7-11. All subjects, all abilities. Chelmsford-based. Call Helen Cullender on 01245 422233 or 0759 5154 821 topclasstutoring.co.uk 11+ ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN 11+ 11 PLUS
Private tuition in your own home by qualified, experienced, CRB-checked tutors. Call 0845 6445452 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk
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 Wednesdays 3.305.30pm and Saturdays 9.00-11.00am Springfield Parish Centre St. Augustines Way Chelmsford CM1 6GX Ms Eirini Grammatikopoulou ENG MAT
TopClass Tutoring
ROMFORD
Fleet Tutors
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
LAN LANGUAGES MAT MATHEMATICS SEN SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS
The internet has changed all of our lives, particularly our children’s. For parents and carers this opens up a whole new world of things to be aware of. For many of us, this can all be a bit too much. Here are some helpful tips for you: • Talk to your child about what they’re up to online. Be a part of their online life; involve the whole family and show an interest. Find out what sites they visit and what they love about them, if they know you understand they are more likely to come to you if they have any problems. • Watch Thinkuknow films and cartoons with your child. The Thinkuknow site has films, games and advice for children from five all the way to 16. • Encourage your child to go online and explore! There is a wealth of age-appropriate sites online for your children. Encourage them to use sites which are fun, educational and that will help them to develop online skills. • Keep up-to-date with your child’s development online. Children grow up fast and they will be growing in confidence and learning new skills daily. It’s important that as your child learns more, so do you. • Set boundaries in the online world just as you would in the real world. Think about what they might see, what they share, who they talk to and how long they spend online. It is important to discuss boundaries at a young age to develop the tools and skills children need to enjoy their time online. • Keep all equipment that connects to the internet in a family space. For children of this age, it is important to keep internet use in family areas so you can see the sites your child is using and be there for them if they stumble across something they don’t want to see. • Know what connects to the internet and how. Nowadays even the TV connects to the internet. Make sure you’re aware of which devices that your child uses connect to the internet, such as their phone or games console. • Use parental controls on devices that link to the internet, such as the TV, laptops, computers, games consoles and mobile phones. Parental controls are not just about locking and blocking, they are a tool to help you set appropriate boundaries as your child grows and develops. This information was taken from www.thinkuknow.co.uk a fantastic site full of information and resources. 24 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Schools & Education
www.kidaround.biz • Spring 15• South Essex • 25
Get Active 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 Smart Steps School of Dance. Ballet, modern jazz, tap and street dance. Chelmsford. Mondays 4-6 pm Pilgrims Hatch - Friday’s 3.30 - 5.45pm Call Julie 07834 243991 Street Dance / Hip-hop for ages 7-21yrs. Saturdays & Tuesdays in Epping. Thursdays in Chelmsford for 3-21 years open in September. Classes are fast, fun-packed and focused. 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk
DRAMA/PERFORMING ARTS
Academy Arts Theatre School & Agency For ages 7-21yrs. Sats & Tues in Epping, Thurs in Chelmsford. Classes are fast, fun-packed and focused. 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk Academy Kids Saturday mornings in Epping. Classes for ages 3-7yrs. Play games, learn songs, dances and poems as an introduction to performing arts. 01245 422595 info@academyarts.co.uk www.academyarts.co.uk
Act Sing Dance with Chelmsford Theatretrain on a Saturday morning. For your free trial session call Sharon on 01277 224853 or email Chelmsford@theatretrain.co.uk 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 4 - 17 year olds. Sweyne Park School, Rayliegh. Book now on 01268 683512 / 07787 570760 or email rayleighwes@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
HIGH ROPES
Rope Runners High Ropes Adventure Park, Kelvedon Hatch. Open all year. Children from age 6. Parties available. 01277 888134 www.roperunners.co.uk
26 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
LASER/PAINTBALL
PLAY
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
RUGBY
Laser Madness Basildon Brand new laser tag arena. Kids Parties, Adult Parties, Pay & Play, and Exclusive Hire. See page 11 for more information.01268 288211 www.lasermadness.co.uk
KICK BOXING
Children’s Thai Kick Boxing (Muay Thai) Classes for 5 – 12 years old. High energy classes to help build confidance, concentration and listening skills. Monday’s & Thursday’s 6pm-7pm Call Gary 07793 661601 www.muaythaichelmsford.com
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
PARENT & CHILD CLASSES
Classes for adults and their children aged 5 – 12 years old. High energy classes to help build confidance, concentration and listening skills. Saturday 9:30am – 10:30am Call Gary 07793 661601 www.muaythaichelmsford.com
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 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 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 Holiday Club at Thriftwood Campsite and Activity Centre with 16 activities and qualified instructors. Call 01277 212784 or visit www.thriftwood.org.uk Rope Runners High Ropes Adventure Park, Kelvedon Hatch. Open all year. Children from age 6. Parties available. 01277 888134 www.roperunners.co.uk
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
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
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
Laser Madness Basildon Brand new laser tag arena. Kids Parties, Adult Parties, Pay & Play, and Exclusive Hire. See page 11 for more information. 01268 288211 www.lasermadness.co.uk Laser Mayhem Play real Call of Duty missions based around the computer game. Hide behind real Russian battle tanks, planes and helicopters using Laser Tag equipment. 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 Popstar Recording Parties
children aged 7 years plus can record professionally produced CDs in a real studio. Invite your friends and experience your own popstar dream! Packages start from £90. www.singingparty.co.uk 01268 572482
Rope Runners High Ropes Adventure Park, Kelvedon Hatch. Open all year. Children from age 6. Parties available. 01277 888134 www.roperunners.co.uk SoundMagic Studios For details
of recording parties contact Steve or Victoria 01376 501313 or www.recordingparties.co.uk
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.
www.kidaround.biz • Spring 15• South Essex • 27
READING
SWIMMING
Bookstart
ABC Baby Classes
RUGBY
Tina Franklin Swim School
Sing some rhymes and look at books, and meet other babies and their grown-ups at your local library. www.essex.gov.uk/libraries
Little Scrummers Rugby
Exciting tag rugby for 2-6 year olds. Essex & Cambridgeshire. Make friends and learn new skills! 07738 591232 www.littlescrummers.com
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
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
CLOTH NAPPIES
Essex Cloth Nappy Campaign
DANCE
Smart Steps School of Dance.
Ballet, modern jazz, tap and street dance for 3+. Chelmsford - Mondays 4-6pm Pilgrims Hatch - Fridays 3.30 - 5.45pm Call Julie 07834243991
SUPPORT
Small, friendly and fun swimming classes for baby and preschool, in Brentwood & Wickford. Call Jo 07969 082818, email jo@abcbabyclasses.co.uk 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
NCT
For antenatal classes, friendly advice, breastfeeding support and much more. 0870 444 8707 www.nct.org.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 or www.aqua4baby.co.uk. Wickford classes: Michelle 07919 414495 michelle@aquacalm4mums2b.co.uk www.aquacalm4mums2b.co.uk
Find out more about cloth nappies and how to join the nappy network. Find out more by visiting www.essexcc.gov.uk
5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing
Scientific evidence points to five steps that we can take to improve our mental wellbeing. If you give them a try, you may feel happier, more positive and able to get the most from your life. Why not approach them with an open mind and try them out? You can judge the results yourself. • connect – connect with the people around you: your family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. Spend time developing these relationships. • be active – you don’t have to go to the gym. Take a walk, go cycling or play a game of football. Find the activity that you enjoy and make it a part of your life. • keep learning – learning new skills can give you a sense of achievement and a new confidence. So why not sign up for that cooking course, start learning to play a musical instrument, or figure out how to fix your bike? • give to others – even the smallest act can count, whether it’s a smile, a thank you or a kind word. Larger acts, such as volunteering at your local community centre, can improve your mental wellbeing and help you build new social networks. • take notice – be more aware of the present moment, including your feelings and thoughts, your body and the world around you. Some people call this awareness “mindfulness”, and it can positively change the way you feel about life and how you approach challenges Many factors influence our wellbeing. Evidence shows that the actions we take and the way we think have the biggest impact. We all deserve to be happy and they do say ‘happiness is the key to staying young’. For more information on mental wellbeing, stress and depression visit: www.nhs.uk/livewell/emotionalhealth 28 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Childcare Top Tips for settling your child into nursery
Starting nursery can be a big change for you and your baby, so here are some handy tips on how to make the transition as easy as possible: • It might have been a while since you last went to the nursery, so book a visit to ensure you are completely comfortable with the setting. • It is always good if your baby has something familiar with them when they start, so pack their favourite toy or comfort blanket, so they feel reassured. • Settling in sessions are key to making you both feel comfortable: • During your first session, meet your key person and share your child’s daily routine, interests and any important information such as allergies. • The next longer session will give your baby time to start exploring their new environment. Once your little one is playing, go for a cup of tea on-site to see how they respond to you not being there. • Your third session is normally over a meal or nap time to help them get used to the change in routine. During this session it is advisable to leave for up to 3 hours. Don’t be afraid to call the nursery to check how your baby is. They expect lots of calls as it is often more difficult for the parent than it is for the child. • Give yourself plenty of time and gradually increase their hours at nursery, which will make the first day easier. • After each session ask the nursery to provide you with a report on their daily routine and ask them to take photographs to show you what they have been up to. • Goodbyes are hard for both of you. So, give them a kiss, say goodbye reassuring your baby you will come back, and walk away. It’s really tough but is worth it! Remember that each family is different and settling periods should be planned for your baby’s individual needs and your nursery should support you for as long as necessary. Information provided by Sue Young, Nursery Manager at Dizzy Ducks Day Nurseries 01268 545904 www.dizzyducks.co.uk
www.kidaround.biz • Spring 15• South Essex • 29
Childcare Dizzy Ducks Day Nursery
AGENCIES When calling any of the advertisers in the Childcare Providers section, please let them know that you found their number in KidAround.
Nutkin Nannies Essex
Professional nanny agency providing for all your childcare needs. Including Babysitting. Please call Sarah on 01376 529795 / 07938 142876 www.nutkinnannies.co.uk info@nutkinnannies.co.uk
Sitters.co.uk
Britain’s favourite babysitters offering evening and daytime babysitters with professional childcare experience, even at short notice! Call 08447 367 367 or visit them at www.sitters.co.uk
Dovedale Nursery
Little Achievers Montessori Pre-School
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St Mary Magdalene Church Hall Great Burstead 07759 837258 Ms Tracey Scarborough/ Ms Mary Ishmael maryishmael@yahoo.co.uk www.montessori-billericay.org
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Oakdin Montessori Kindergarten Ltd
67 Perry Street 01277 633055 www.oakdinmontessori.com oakdin67@gmail.com Mrs Shahida Shah
sT* BRENTWOOD BILLERICAY Dizzy Ducks Day Nursery Buttsbury Infants School Perry Street 01277 650538 Sue Young www.dizzyducks.co.uk
CHELMSFORD
Mayflower High School Stock Road 01277 633555 Sarah Tayler www.dizzyducks.co.uk
Hopscotch Day Nursery School Road Kelvedon Hatch 01277 372826 Jan Swift www.hopscotchdn.co.uk
Chelmsford College Moulsham St. Campus 01245 293045 Pat Cox www.dovedale-nursery.co.uk
Jack and Jill Pre-School
Methodist Church Hall 124 Main Road, Broomfield 01245 442 448 07946 635068 Julie Ellingford jackandjillbroomfield@fsmail.net www.jackandjillpreschoolbroomfield.co.uk
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Kiddi Caru
10 Victoria Court New Street 01245 505323 chelmsford@kiddicaru.com www.kiddicaru.com
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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
Rainbow Pre-School Chelmer Village Hall 07901 886488 Sarah Smith www.rainbowps.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
s*ly The Stables Nursery
Mararetting Road Galleywood 01245 348159 Susan Mann www.thestablesnursery.co.uk
sT* ESSEX
Dizzy Ducks Babysitting
The local babysitters you can trust, covering Essex, Suffolk and London 01268 545904 www.dizzyducksbabysitting.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 summer issue. 30 • Spring 15 • South Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Childcare GREAT BADDOW Woodcroft Nursery School
Dorset Avenue 01245 473222 Mrs H. Roberts www.woodcroft-nur.essex.sch.uk
sTly HARLOW
St Edmund’s Montessori Pre-School
St Edmund’s Montessori Matching Green 01279 739206 Mrs Linda Withers www.stedmundsmontessori.com
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Sunflower Montessori Kindergarten
Landsbury Suite Hutton Poplars 01277 201120 Naira Gendi www.sunflowermontessorikinder.co.uk info@sunflowermontessorikinder.co.uk
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INGATESTONE Wright Start Day Nurseries Ltd 52 Fryerning Lane 01277 356885 Carly Wright www.wrightstartdaynurseries.co.uk
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LAINDON
NORTH FAMBRIDGE
WRITTLE
Willowfield Pre-School
Deerlands Day Nursery
The Duckling Nursery
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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
Ferry Road 01621 744041 Heidi Cook www.deerlandsdaynursery.co.uk
ONGAR
Roxwell Preschool
Viking Junior Academy
Wentworth Primary School Viking Road 07583 261354 Tanya Syder www.vikingacademy.co.uk
sT*ly MUNDON
Small Steps Day Care
Little Wycke Farm 01621 828767 Sarah Roe www.smallstepsdaycare.co.uk
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Writtle Green Preschool
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Daisy Chain Nursery
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Foxburrows Lane 01245 421341 writtlecollege@kiddicaru.com www.kiddicaru.com
Stondon Road 01277 362211 igherghi2000@yahoo.co.uk www.abcnursery.org.uk
ROXWELL
Royal Court 01621 859991 Kim Lambert www.daisychain-nursery.com
Writtle College Kiddi Caru
ABC Nursery, Pre-School & After School Club
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Longmeads House 12-14 Redwood Drive 07950 944612 Debbie Wright
Memorial Hall The Street 07970 750484 April Little www.roxwellpreschool.co.uk aprillittle123@btinternet.com
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Key to Childcare Provider Icons use these symbols to discover the type of care offered by each setting
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s DAY CARE
WICKFORD The Day Nursery
Church Road SS11 8SH 01268 769522 Jenna or Natalie admin@thedaynursery.org.uk www.thedaynursery.org.uk
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Lodge Road 07771 645270 Mrs S. Homer www.ducklingnursery.co.uk
T SESSIONAL CARE y AFTER SCHOOL CLUB h CHILDMINDER l BREAKFAST CLUB * HOLIDAY CLUB H CRECHE
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