Contents This Summer 03 News & Views 06 Book Reviews 12 School’s Out
Seasonal Special 20 Summertime Fun
What’s On
Welcome to Summer
28 Diary Dates
Education Matters
Hello readers, Yes, my favourite time of year, albeit I am seven months pregnant so the heat may not be appreciated as much as it usually is. I have also decided not to travel abroad this year which is a first and I am looking forward to visiting some wonderful UK destinations - if you haven’t booked your family holiday or are looking for something extra, check out our holiday guide on page 10 with some tried and tested locations. As myself, Kate, Suzanne and Tina are working mums we understand how hard juggling kids and work can be, and therefore, we love putting together our School’s Out feature on page 12 in an attempt to be organised and get our own childcare sorted! During the longer, sunnier (hopefully drier) months, take a look at the Summertime Fun Feature on page 20 as well as our Diary Dates section on page 28. These are packed full of wonderful places to visit. Don’t forget we work quite far in advance of printing therefore do check with the venue before heading off. Our website www.kidaround.biz is also regularly updated with more events. Please don’t forget to mention us when booking, it really does help. Our Autumn issue will be published on 11th September, when I should have a new arrival to announce Happy Summer everyone.
32 Tutors Feature
Family Life
36 Get active 37 Let’s Party
Early Years 38 Under Fives
Competitions p24
Contact Us
(we are a friendly bunch) Publisher: Anna Hurley anna.hurley@kidaround.biz Sales & Editing Manager: Kate Ellison kate.ellison@kidaround.biz Publishing Assistant: Tina Read tina.read@kidaround.biz Listings Editor: Suzanne Gardner suzanne.gardner@kidaround.biz
Anna and Bump xx
Content Contributor: Saman Javad sam.fazal@kidaround.biz Office Tel:01245 206577
All this plus: 10 Holidaying with the family 22 Games
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KidAround Magazine is published quarterly by Trew Publishing Ltd. Address: The Dutch Barn, Office K, Ford End, Chelmsford, CM3 1LN. Tel: 01245 206577 | email: info@kidaround.biz. Circulation: over 100,000 - two Essex editions. Disclaimer: The copyright and contents of this magazine, including artwork, adverts, logos and articles, when generated by the KidAround team remain with Trew Publishing. Views expressed in editorial and articles are those of the contributor or advertiser and not necessarily of the publisher. The listings, content and advertising in the magazine are for information and advice only. Inclusion does not imply a recommendation from Trew Publishing or its staff. All advertisements and editorial content are accepted in good faith and on the basis that the advertised goods and services are as stated by the advertisers.
NEWS & VIEWS
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NEWS & VIEWS
New Children’s Department Now Open At Fenwick Colchester
...and George the Swinging Chimp is back! Fenwick Colchester’s revamped children’s department opened during the Easter Weekend, following a two month refurbishment. The department, located on the lower ground floor, is the final section to be completed as part of the store’s £35m+ redevelopment project. The space has been redesigned with children’s fashion and shoes taking up the front of the department and toys located at the back, incorporating a LEGO area in the far corner of the department. The new department has been designed around a zoo theme, with animal information panels provided by Colchester Zoo and decorative elements representing a train station. The store’s iconic George the Swinging Chimp will be taking residency in the soft toys section. The animated chimp, also the store’s mascot, arrived in-store in the 1970s and many customers remember seeing him as a child in the toy department. A number of exciting new childrenswear brands including DKNY, Hackett, Paul Smith Junior, Platypus Australia and Polarn O. Pyret have been added to the children’s fashion department, with more new brands expected for the Autumn season including Hatley, Tommy Hilfiger and The North Face. To celebrate the launch of their new toy department, the department store has launched a brand new Toy Club scheme. Pick up your loyalty card instore and receive a stamp for every £15 you spend in the toy department. Receive a free gift when you have collected 5 stamps. Collect 10 stamps and get £10 off your next toy purchase. The new department will be running lots of exciting activities during the school holidays, so keep an eye on the Fenwick website for details (www.fenwick.co.uk/colchester).
Extra-Support For Families Would you like to: • • • • • • • •
Understand your child Meet others in the same boat Feel you are not alone Be treated equally Gain knowledge Have funded childcare Have social support Know we are here for you
• • • • • • • •
Have freedom of choice Have great refreshments Have laughter ‘on tap’ Make friends for life Feel welcome Know its ok to cry Feel non–judged Grow with your child
Call on: 01255 475001 Visit: www.extrasupportforfamilies.co.uk
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NEWS & VIEWS
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NEWS & VIEWS 5 Ways to Make Reading Fun Recent research shows that there is some indication that fewer children nowadays read for enjoyment. Most children learn best when they are doing something because they truly want to. To encourage your children to pick up a book more often can be a difficult task if they don’t enjoy reading. Here are some great ways to make reading a fun activity that they will want to take part in. Create a cool space Work with your children to make a reading area they will want to read in. Think of old-school forts: rugs, lamps, beanbags and posters. Try creating a space with a theme close to your child’s interests and then bring in the books to match. This will create the perfect place to read. Play dress up Make a show of it. You can ask your kids to act out the best parts of their favourite books and even dress up as their favourite characters. This will also get children thinking more in depth about the storyline and exactly what they have learned about each character. Voices If you’re reading to your children, try putting on different voices for different characters. You can also ask them to do this whilst reading aloud to you. This is bound to get your children laughing and will instantly brighten up reading time. Summer Reading Challenge Everybody loves a challenge! Why not put your kids to the test? Libraries across Essex hold a Summer Reading Challenge in which children must read 6 books, one for each week of their summer break. Children receive special rewards each time they finish a book and there’s a certificate for everyone who completes the Challenge. Let them choose! Let your children choose what book to read. This will keep them interested and also gives them a sense of responsibility and importance. Visiting your local library with your kids also ties into this - make visits to the library fun and let your kids loose to choose their own reading!
BOOKS TO READ R EV IEWED BY LOCAL CHILDR EN
‘The Unexpected Visitor’ by J. Courtney-Tickle. £6.99. Egmont The story is about a lonely fisherman who catches too many fish with no one to share them with. One day he makes friends with a whale; when they are hungry they find there are no fish left in the sea. The story ends happily with a strong message about overfishing and how important it is to take care of the creatures in the ocean. This book is beautifully illustrated with some lovely illustrations of the amazing undersea world. Reviewed by Taylor Frost, age 4 and his mummy
The Polar Pack, The Jungle Crew and The Safari Set by Madeleine Rogers. £4.99 each. Button Books I really enjoyed these three books. They are board books so they were easy for me to turn the pages myself. The pictures are very bright and modern and fill the pages with animals. I love the colours. Each book has a different theme, a Safari, a Jungle and Polar. It showed me the different animals that live there. The words are written as poems and there are fun facts also. Any little child my age would love these books. Reviewed by Apple Blacklock, age 22 months, and her mum
Sky Private Eye and the Case of the Runaway Biscuit by Jane Clarke. £7.99. Five Quills. This book is a modern twist of the classic tale The Gingerbread Man. Sky saves the day and solves the fairy-tale mystery of the runaway biscuit. Sky, fairy-tale cupcake detective, smartly follows clues with her sidekick Snuffles the dog. Thoroughly enjoyable read with bright illustrations and a fun fairy-tale theme. You can even make Sky’s gingerbread cupcakes for fairy-tale emergencies using the secret recipe at the end of the book. Reviewed by Ella Oldacre, age 3, and her mum
‘Alice Jones: The Ghost Light’ by Sarah Rubin. £6.99. Chicken House It was about a cast of children who rehearse at an old theatre where ghostly things suddenly start to happen. Kevin has a twin sister called Della and they are desperate to meet Matthew Strange whilst watching rehearsals for The Curse Of The Casterfields. The other characters are Vivian, Frank and Alice Jones who is a sleuth. I found the book interesting and exciting and hope you do too. Reviewed by Kimberley Starling, age 9
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NEWS & VIEWS
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NEWS & VIEWS
Things we like for Summer Frills and Florals This Summer, frills are back with a highfashion makeover. Carefully selected frills can give your outfit a feminine charm whilst ruffled sleeves can add drama. If you’re new to the trend, look for tops with frilled shoulders and ruffled sleeves. Pick one in classic gingham, the quintessential summer-time check for a cat-walk inspired look. Spring florals are here to stay, transitioning into our summer wardrobe in the form of bold-print trousers. Pick billowing silhouettes such as culottes or wide-leg and pair with floaty blouses in light, pastel hues to get an effortless summer-chic look.
Taking a dip. Whether you’re going abroad or staying home, giant floats are the perfect pool-side accessory. Last year’s most popular float was the swan. 2017 calls for an upgrade. We are loving this on-trend Giant Pink Flamingo Float.
A Bronzy Glow - Fake It till You Make It There’s no better summer accessory than glowing, sun-kissed skin. Whilst self-tanning products can be daunting to use, there are a variety of bronzing tints on the market. These are ideal for the commitment-phobe, as they wash out with a simple rinse
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and won’t Tango your sheets. Look for an ultra-lightweight liquid bronzer like Liz Earle’s Sheer Bronzing Fluid. These will deliver a natural-looking veil of colour and can be worn alone or mixed in with either moisturiser or foundation to give you a radiant glow.
DIY Body Scrubs You can’t get glowing, sun-kissed look without smooth skin. It couldn’t be easier with these DIY Body Scrubs which will buff away old skin and stimulate microcirculation. To make, just add granulated sugar to melted coconut oil and mix to form a paste. Add essential oils (we recommend either Lemon or Raspberry) and lastly, a few drops of food colouring to make them bright and colourful for the summer. Making your own scrub is good for the environment too as you won’t be using microbeads.
Watermelon Popsicle Sticks These popsicle sticks are the perfect novelty way of getting your kids to eat more fruit and they are super easy to make! All you need is a watermelon and some popsicle sticks. Cut your watermelon into triangular pieces and insert the sticks through the rind. Keep your popsicle slices in the freezer to make them extra cold for a more refreshing treat.
NEWS & VIEWS
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NEWS & VIEWS
Family
GETAWAYS READY TO GET AWAY WITH THE FAMILY FOR A WELL-EARNED BREAK? HERE’S SOME IDEAS FOR COST EFFECTIVE PLACES TO STAY HERE AND AWAY!
Going Abroad
Campsite holidays are a cost-efficient way to take your family abroad. Most holiday packages include transport in their price and many have self-catering options available, which means you and your family could save money by cooking your own meals. Our editor, Suzanne, recommends a chalet campsite called Domaine le Saint Laurent in Brittany, France. Here’s what she thought: “Several years ago I took my family (husband and two daughters, aged 5 and 10 years at the time) to a chalet campsite called Domaine le Saint Laurent in Brittany, France. Our chalet was small and basic but clean, with two bedrooms, shower room, kitchen and eating area. The campsite had excellent swimming facilities: outdoor and indoor
The following website is very useful for money saving tips on package holidays abroad: http://www.moneysavingexpert. com/travel/cheap-holiday-hagglingguide. Booking late is the cheapest way to get a package holiday. ‘Late’ means no more than 8-10 weeks before departure, when the bargains flood in. However, the longer you wait the more you need to be flexible about dates and destinations. So if creche facilities or a specific hotel are must-haves, be careful. If you just want somewhere hot and cheap, leave it very late, ie, the week before you go, and you may get great trips for dirt-cheap prices. The other way to get discounts is to book early, as much as nine months in advance, because many tour operators offer early booking discounts. These can include £100 per couple discounts or buy-one-get-one-free weeks. Prices for package holidays drop rapidly towards the end of August – this is likely to be because most people want to go as soon as they can. And many people don’t want to be away the week before schools go back, so if you can leave it to the very last minute you’ll likely save. Do your research, there are many sites out there that can tailor packages for you which can work out very cost effective - do make sure they are ATOL protected.
Staying Home
pools with lots of slides for the kids. There were free activities for children age 5-12 years, including themed days, games and a small play area. The beach was just a short walk away, which was a real bonus, and the main reason for us choosing this site. We visited the local area, including Concarneau, a historic town with a famous harbour, and Quimper, where lovely pottery is made. You can also take a boat trip to the pretty Glénan islands. We booked this holiday through Brittany Ferries and the cost of the holiday included the chalet as well as the boat journeys there and back.” We had a scour through the Brittany Ferries website and found campsite holidays to France, Spain and Portugal for as little as £466 for a family of four!
Enjoying the summer holidays doesn’t mean you have to go abroad. If you’re staying home, there’s a range of holidays to choose from. Potters Resort, located in Great Yarmouth, offers all-inclusive family holidays which means you don’t need to worry about accommodation, meals or keeping kids busy. If you fancy adding a bit more glamour to your camping holiday, take a look at Sandy Balls. Set in New Forest National Park, their accommodation adds some extra fun to your holiday. Go glamping in one of their funky camping pods in August for 7 nights at £756 or amp up the fun for £1300 and choose a safari tent, which gives you all the luxury of a lodge and all the freedom and adventure of sleeping under canvas.
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Scotland
Located just 22 miles from Edinburgh and 50 miles from Glasgow is hydropathic hotel Peebles Hydro. Aside from a vast history ranging over 150 years and 30 acres of land to explore, the hotel offers a range of activities to keep kids entertained such as walking trails, golf, quads, as well as mountain biking and cycling. On days when you’re low on energy, there is a pretty market town nearby and a spa to indulge and relax. The best part? This summer on selected midweek dates, kids stay free! Book a 3 night break in August for as little as £435.
Cheap as chips option – UK & Europe
Getting away can cost from as little as £9.50pp when collecting The Sun Holiday Vouchers or pay £15pp to escape to one of the many European countries (you will have to pay/arrange travel). This is for accommodation only but still works out very cost effective as a ferry crossing can cost very little for a car of up to 5 people. For more information, check out The Sun website. https://club950.co.uk
SAVING TIPS Tesco Boost Collecting points and then exchanging them for their boost/perks can includes air miles, channel crossings, car hire, accomodation and restaurants.
Air miles If you use a credit card check if you can earn air miles whilst spending, these soon add up and can make that dream holiday a reality.
Save the pennies saving loose change in a pot throughout the year can provide you with spending money. We find £2 coins a good one to collect.
WIN!
We have teamed up with Coleman to offer our readers a chance to win this luxurious Cortes Octagon 8 Tent Add a touch of class to your next camping trip with Coleman’s luxurious Cortes Octagon 8 tent. One thing is for certain, there is no better way to enjoy this balmy weather than piling your friends and family into the car, heading out into the great outdoors and finding the perfect spot to start your ultimate and personalised ‘glamping’ weekend away. Forget about forking out for a pre-determined and pre-set up site, with the award-winning* Coleman Cortes Octagon 8 tent, you have a large, spacious and luxurious tent at your fingertips. Your choice for ‘glampsite’ locations becomes a boundless array of opportunity. To find out more about the Cortes Octagon 8 tent visit: http://www.coleman.eu/uk/p26459-cortes-octagon-8.aspx
How to enter
Go online at: www.kidaround.biz/ competitions
NEWS & VIEWS
Brentwood Children’s Literary Festival
Last year, the team behind Chicken and Frog Bookshop launched the Brentwood Children’s Literary Festival. Over 1,300 visitors attended the festival, across the course of a week, with 16 author events taking place in various locations around Brentwood. The festival will be making a welcome return this summer, from 22nd – 30th July. The events will vary in format, from writing workshops to performances, as well as talks and book signings. So, if you love the world of books, this is the event for you. This year’s line-up has something to suit all ages, from pre-schoolers to teens. Full details can be found on the festival’s website: www. brentwoodlitfest.com .Tickets are just £3 each, with the majority of events taking place at the Brentwood Theatre. The festival is being supported by Bennetts, Brentwood Renaissance Group, Brentwood Breakfast Rotary, Brentwood Community Fund, Chicken and Frog Bookshop, Keith Ashton Estate Agents, Ken Chad Consulting, Step into Yoga, The Baytree and the Sugar Hut Group. Media partners: Brentwood Gazette, Essex Enquirer, First News and Phoenix FM. Tickets can be booked via Brentwood Theatre’s box office, on 01277 200 305. You can also purchase tickets directly from Chicken and Frog Bookshop, by visiting the shop or calling 01277 230068. If you would like to find out more about the festival, contact the team at Chicken and Frog Bookshop, who will be very happy to tell you more.
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School’s Out
The summer holidays are just around the corner, but don’t worry, this feature can help find the perfect solution. Whether it’s swimming, activity clubs, theatre workshops, golf, we have it all plus more. Please remember to say you saw it here when calling!
Playgolf Colchester
There are some great activities on offer for the kids this summer at Playgolf Colchester, Bakers Lane Colchester. Summer Camps are taught by a DBS PGA Professional and give your child a great day of fun activities whilst learning golf and making new friends – if you are busy working, this is a great way to keep them entertained and it won’t break your bank - and not an IPad or iPhone in sight!!! There is an 8 hole course set aside from the main 18 hole course, where Footgolf is played. Footgolf is a great way of spending some time with the family or simply having a giggle with a group of friends. Adult is £7pp and a child (12 years and under) is only £3pp. There is a great offer where you can make a meal of it and get a pizza included: £12.50 per adult and only £7 per child. You can play Footgolf 7 days a week. After all that fresh air why not come into The Kitchen Club Restaurant where the Family Meal Deal can feed the whole family. For only £22 you can have 2 adult pizzas, 2 children’s pizzas and 2 portions of fries. The pizzas are freshly made to order and baked in a wood burning pizza oven, with toppings to suit everybody, and you can enjoy your pizza either al fresco or in the family friendly restaurant – The Kitchen Club. Your Gym is the state of the art, fully equipped gym overlooking the golf course, where there are studio classes seven days a week, plenty of free parking and personal trainers on hand to give you help and advice to ensure you reach your personal goals. Full gym membership is only £28.99. There is no contract and no joining fee so you stay because you want to not because you have to, and with The Kitchen Club Restaurant you can pop in for coffee and a spot of healthy lunch when you want to. For more information or to book please telephone a member of the team on 01206 843333 or email colchester@playgolfworld.com. Terms and conditions apply. Playgolf Colchester, Bakers Lane, Colchester, CO3 4AU. www.playgolfworld.com
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SCHOOL’S OUT
Theatre Arts Academy est.1999 Musical Theatre
Theatre Arts Academy provides quality performance training for over 200 students. Based in Colchester in the beautiful studios at St. Mary’s independent school on Lexden Road, students attend Saturday Musical Theatre Classes in Acting, Singing and Dance and perform in at least two major theatre productions a year. Professional Opportunities: The Academy works in partnership with a professional children’s performance agency with students recently performing in Dick Whittington at The Mercury Theatre Colchester, ITV’s Sound of Music Live, The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Tour, The Sound Of Music UK Tour and Bully Boy at The Mercury. The TAA Performers Troupe also offers performance opportunities at festivals and charity and corporate events. LAMDA coaching: They also offer coaching for London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art exams (LAMDA). Holding regular exam sessions in Colchester they can boast an impressive 100% pass rate with 98% students gaining Merits or Distinctions! Dance: Ballet, Tap & Dance Development classes are also available for all levels and abilities during the week. Holiday courses: This July, Theatre Arts Academy are running a week-long Summer Stage School experience. This is a great way to get to meet the Academy teaching staff and gain a real feel for their fantastic standard of coaching. Participants learn extracts from West End musicals including school of Rock, Les Miserables, Mamma Mia, Annie and Our House. There is a studio performance for family and friends on the last day and KidAround readers can claim 10% off the course fee by quoting ‘KidAround!’ Fees & Scholarships: The Academy strives to make theatre training available for all. The fees are inclusive and very competitive, with dance classes starting from just £2 per class, Beginner’s Drama from £4 and Saturday Musical Theatre School from £11. The Academy also runs a scholarship scheme for talented children over 12 years, covering from 10% to 100% of fees. All classes are taught by professional, trained performers and directors with a genuine enthusiasm for theatre and education. Staff have DBS clearance and the Academy is registered with Essex Children’s University. Theatre Arts Academy also works in schools across Essex and Suffolk, providing school drama clubs, special workshops and help with school productions. There is lots of detailed information on the Theatre Arts Academy website and on their Facebook page, including some fantastic photographs of previous shows and workshops. Theatre Arts Academy can also be found on Instagram and Twitter. To book a place on any of the Academy’s classes or holiday workshops or to enquire about the Scholarships available, you can visit their website www.theatreartsacademy@outlook.com or contact Artistic Director, Karen Binks at: theatreartsacademy@outlook.com Photos: Derek Anson
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SCHOOL’S OUT
University Of Essex Keeping children active and happy during the summer holidays is a job in itself. Trying to find something different to do every day that’s fun, exercises the mind and body and is of course good value can be difficult. The prospect of a summer of screen time fills every parent with dread. CHUMS at the University of Essex in Colchester is a one-stop shop for a programme full of sports and creative activities, ideal for working parents, starting at 8.30am and finishing at 5pm each weekday. This year the popular scheme has extended the age range so more family members can enjoy everything on offer. CHUMS is now open to children aged from 5 through to 14 years old. The children are split into two groups: Mini CHUMS for children aged 5 to 8 and Junior CHUMS for 8 to 14 years old. 8 year olds can decide which group they wish to join. Organised and managed by professional staff at the University’s Sports Centre, children can enjoy a range of activities, making the most of the space and facilities on the extensive campus.
Fun For Kids Home From Home
Fun For Kids Home From Home Offers childcare throughout the year in a home setting. Children meet and have fun with others in a safe and comfortable environment. Qualified, caring staff, meet individual interests with a high adult/child ratio. School holiday care offers many fun activities including clay modelling; cooking; gardening; wii gaming; arts and crafts; outings and heuristic play. Term-time early years education follows EYFS encompasses the activities above and more and works with parents to meet individual needs and interests. Healthy snacks are provided and hot meals are available at a small cost. There are hourly fee rates with varied fee structures to meet family requirements. To find out more call Jane on 01255 317075 or 07791 171704
Leisure World Colchester Professional tennis coaching is included, as well as parachute games, rounders, volleyball, basketball and uni-hoc; there’s even the odd water fight! Each day is timetabled to include a varied programme to provide something for everyone. Children can either enhance existing skills or perhaps discover new sports they want to pursue once the holidays are over. One sport the children definitely won’t have tried before is Frisbee golf. The attractive parkland around the Sports Centre is home to a championship Frisbee golf course. Children can perfect the art of Frisbee throwing as they play their way round the course, with the goal of getting the discs into the nets, all under the careful supervision of sports staff who specialise in arranging these busy weeks. Every day also includes a quiet arts and crafts activity and time for reflection. The younger children finish the day with story time just before you collect them at home time. The camp opens its doors on Monday 24th July, running five days a week, except Bank Holiday Monday 28th August, until Friday 1st September, when, appropriately for a camp on a University campus, we will be inviting children to a mini graduation ceremony. Places are limited, and the attractive price structure of £25 per day or £100 for a week-long booking means places will fill quickly. To ensure your children can enjoy this fun-filled scheme book online at www.essex.ac.uk/sport/activities.
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Jump into summer fun at Leisure World Keep your kids active this summer at Leisure World. The fun-packed holiday programme is the perfect way to have fun and learn new skills. There are full day sessions to help take the pressure off working parents: Kids Camp for those in school years 1 to 6 and Base Camp for those in school years 7-11, offering a full day of supervised activities, including lunch. Other activities include trampolining, bubble football, crafts, tennis, team games and more. With so much choice you can enjoy a different activity every day. Oh, and don’t forget you can fly down flumes, ride rapids and try all the brand new water features in the Leisure Pool. Plus the changing rooms and toilet area have been refurbished. The indoor Big Red Climbing Wall at Leisure World Tiptree is a great way of introducing the whole family (it’s not just for kids you know) to this fun and exhilarating sport – and great for those rainy days! Prices from just £6.80 per session for those aged 8-16yrs. Or if tennis is more your thing, Leisure World Tennis Centre has 10 hard courts and 9 grass courses available to hire by the hour. Either pre-book by calling 01206 282100 (new number) or just turn up between 3.308pm on weekdays and 9.30am-2.30pm on weekends. Don’t worry if you don’t have the kit – you can hire rackets and balls at the drop in and play sessions. The best thing is you’ll be helping to keep the whole family healthy. To find out more about the summer activities phone, pop in, or go online – the choice is yours! www.colchesterleisureworld.co.uk
NEWS & VIEWS
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SCHOOL’S OUT
South Suffolk Leisure
Fun and active days out at Kingfisher Leisure Centre At Kingfisher Leisure Centre the fantastic leisure pool has many sessions to suit everyone’s needs. Whether you are looking for an action-packed swim in Wet ‘N’ Wild where you can jump the waves, ride the slides, or tackle the new aqua run inflatable, you will definitely have a great time! The Aqua run inflatable is a REAL challenge for all. You’ll need to be nimble and hold your balance to complete the course: ducking, diving, bobbing, climbing, finishing with sliding off the end. Available Saturday 12-4pm and weekdays 2-4pm during the school holidays. Make your child’s next birthday a memorable one by having exclusive use of the leisure pool and fun features with the inflatable aqua run, or have a soft play party in Little Kingfishers. Other sessions include casual swim sessions with or without slides and waves, Parent & Toddler and Public Lane swimming. Swimming lessons for any age, ability or experience are available - find out more at www. ssleisure.co.uk, or call the Centre. Stay dry and have hours of fun exploring the 4-tiered soft play frame in Little Kingfishers. They can climb the ladders and nets, crawl the tunnels, jump in the ball pool or ride the slides, all whilst you can enjoy a cuppa and snack in the café with wifi. The separate baby area includes a ball pool for babies under 18 months. Open 7 days a week from 10am, see website for opening hours. At Sudbury Sports Centre sports for all the family are on offer. Whether you want to hire a court, take up trampolining or join gymnastics, come and find out what is on offer. For information visit www.ssleisure.co.uk or call Kingfisher on 01787 375656 or Sudbury on 01787 373132
Away with the Fairies
“Do You Believe?” Fairy Gardens are here to help you create your very own enchanted miniature fairy garden. Whether you want just a pot by the window or an enchanted area in your garden, there is a wide choice of all the miniature fairy houses, fairy accessories, fairy doors and magical people you could wish for including fairies, gnomes and dragons. It’s wonderful to watch children aged 0-100 make their very own gardens, all with a special sprinkle of magic! Fairy Gardens’ aim is to have everything that an enchanted garden could possibly need, so start today and let your imagination run wild and have lots of fun all at the same time. www.fairygardensuk.co.uk
Stay Away This Summer: Xplore Activity Camps in Suffolk
Being away from home, meeting new friends, trying new things and making new memories have huge benefits to a child’s development. Established in Suffolk for over 30 years, these funpacked summer camps for children aged 6 to 14 are allinclusive, including excursions and adventure activities. Brandeston Hall, Framlingham Perfect for younger children aged 6 to 12 staying away from home for the first time. The camp is small but packed full of exciting activities, such as quad biking, crate climbing and more! Finborough Hall, Stowmarket Action-packed adventure camp for 10 to 14 year olds. Huge range of activities from climbing and kayaking to archery, crafts and sports! For more information go online xploreactivitycamps.com
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SCHOOL’S OUT
Theatricool
Theatricool are an independent and innovative performing arts school with lots to look forward to this year! Theatricool are getting ready for their 9th year of bringing summer fun to the children of Colchester and Nayland, with their fabulous Summer Schools in July and August! For ages 3-16 years (working in age-appropriate groups) it costs just £130 for a week of performing fun, learning songs, sketches and routines, with a performance for family and friends at the end of the week. You can book online and there is even a 50% sibling discount for the 7-16 age group. Colchester summer school is 24th-28th July and Nayland is 31st July-4th August, from 10am-4pm every day. In September Saturday schools return to start working on their winter showcases. This year the Lower and Upper School showcases will be on different days, giving all students a chance to shine. If you would like to join Theatricool in September it’s a good idea to register as soon as possible, via the website, for a FREE TASTER SESSION, as spaces are limited. New for September is the exciting theatre company for 13-20 year olds: TPA Co. (Theatricool Performing Arts Company). Sessions will be taught by theatre professionals, with guest professionals coming in regularly. The aim is to stage performances in local theatres. Students will be taught a range of theatre skills, including audition technique, acting through song, stage combat, movement for actors, dialects, vocal technique, etc. Students will work on plays and musicals which will help them prepare for drama schools and auditions. TPA Co. will be a collaborative process, with the young people working as a professional company, making decisions about which productions to stage, as well as assisting with the marketing and technical processes. Sessions will be from 7.35-9.35pm on Friday evenings at Theatricool Studio, Colchester. Email sally@ theatricool.co.uk to register your interest. Due to demand, Theatricool are planning to introduce another Pre Juniors class in September on Saturday mornings – details to follow! If you are interested in registering for any classes here is a handy list for you: • 3-5 years Little Stars A – Saturday 9-10.30am, Little Stars B – Saturday 10-45-12.15pm • 6-8 years Pre Juniors – Saturdays 10.30-12.30pm (new class from September 8.30-10.30am) • 8-16 years Juniors, Seniors – Saturdays 9.30-12.30pm • 13-20 years TPA Co. (Theatre Company) – Fridays 7.35-9.35pm • 7-16 years Dance Crew – Wednesdays 6-8pm LAMDA Musical Theatre and Acting Exam classes – new time to be confirmed in September Don’t forget Theatricool also do fabulous birthday parties and you can hire their studio too for your own children’s party. Theatricool look forward to seeing you soon. Don’t forget the free taster sessions for all Theatricool classes! Please get in touch with the friendly team if you have any questions. www.theatricool.co.uk
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www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • North Essex • 17
Stagecoach Workshops
While regular Stagecoach performing arts classes run during term time, holiday workshops are also on offer. Holiday workshops are open to all children aged 4-18. Your child does not need any previous dancing, singing or acting experience and does not need to be a regular student at Stagecoach. See below for your local holiday workshop and contact details.
Stagecoach Sudbury ‘If Mary Berry Could Sing’
Contact: 01473 601 078
24th-28th July Mon-Thurs 10am-4pm/ Fri 10am-7.00pm (performance at 6pm) 7-18yrs £140 / £90 siblings Thomas Gainsborough School, Gt Cornard, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 0NH
Stagecoach Colchester
Contact: 0845 603 0880
Musical Theatre- Week 1 ‘ Junior Workshop 31st July- 4th August. 9am-12pm 4-7yrs £95 / £70 siblings Colchester Sixth Form College Senior Workshop 31st July- 4th August 10am-4pm 6-18yrs £150 / £95 siblings Sixth Form College
Musical Theatre- Week 2‘ 14th-18th August 10am-4pm 6-18yrs £150 / £95 siblings Gilberd School You can book both senior workshops for £250 / £150 siblings
Stagecoach Braintree Contact: 01376 743 788 ‘Beauty & The Beast ’ Musical Theatre Workshop 21st-25th August Mon-Thurs 10am-4pm/ Fri 10am-7.30pm (performance 6.30pm) 5-16yrs £130/ £100 siblings Notley High School, Notley Road, Braintree CM7 1WY
18 • Summer 17 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Topgolf: Fun for all your family
Topgolf Chigwell is a premier sports entertainment venue that provides fun for all the family, where you can challenge one another to addictive pointscoring golf games that anyone can play. Just picture a 240-yard outfield with dartboard-like targets in the ground. The closer to the centre or ‘bull’s-eye’ you get your microchipped ball, the more points you get. Score even bigger with Topgolf’s extensive food and drink menu, served to you by the Bay Hosts. During school holidays, the Eat, Drink, Play deal offers two games of Topgolf, a meal and drink, Monday to Friday 11am-1pm and again from 4pm-6pm. Topgolf isn’t just for people who know their putters from their drivers but if your children love golf, Topgolf Junior Camps are the perfect introduction to the sport. Led by Topgolf’s PGA coaches, the sessions offer a safe, friendly and fun environment to learn the game and make new friends.
Visit www.topgolf.com/EDP for more information or call 0208 500 2644 to speak to a friendly associate. Follow for all the latest news and offers: @TopgolfUK FB.com/topgolfchigwell
SCHOOL’S OUT
Barracudas
“Giving every child such an amazing experience they can’t wait to come back!” Superb summer camps at 39 locations Fantastic range of activities for ages 4.5 to 14 years The best staff:child ratios of any comparable provider Extended hours from 8am-6pm A brilliant childcare option for working parents. Childcare vouchers are accepted as payment! Barracudas, the UK’s No 1 children’s activity camp offers peace of mind for working parents during the summer holidays. After a successful Easter, Barracudas are extremely excited for summer camps to start, with 39 locations operating this year. With action-packed programmes and a choice of varied activities including archery, fencing, motor sports, arts & crafts, dance & drama, there is plenty to keep your children entertained! As well as all the above activities there is fantastic roaming equipment that visits camps, including the bungee run, rodeo bull and the giant wipe-out! So where is your nearest camp? Bishop’s Stortford, Chelmsford, Chigwell, Harlow, Hutton, Upminster and Woodford. New for summer 2017 - Romford! *Dates vary between camps so please see the website Booking your child into Barracudas for summer 2017 couldn’t be easier! You can call on 0845 123 5299 or visit www.barracudas.co.uk
Felsted’s Summer Camp Fun
Cheerleading, Dance & Drama, Hockey, Netball, Multi-Sports & Activity, Swimming and Squash are some of the fun courses that make up Felsted’s Summer Holiday programme. Based on a stunning 90 acre site near Dunmow, the camps take advantage of Felsted’s superb facilities and teaching expertise. Open to children aged 4 to 15 from across the community, there is something on offer for every child to keep them stimulated during the holidays. Felsted’s Multi-Activity Camp runs for four weeks during the summer and is a must for active young children. Offering a range of fun sessions from craft, music and drama through to swimming and tennis, every day is different, bookable by the day or week. Tailored for both boys and girls the Hockey Camp is a great pre-season course to build your child’s confidence as is the Squash Camp, which has developed a number of talented young players in recent years. If that does not tempt, then the two day Cheerleading Course will encompass all the key elements of cheer, pom– dance, stunting, tumbling and jumps, run by Head Coach of HRC All Star Holly Robertson Connell! For those keen on the stage or looking to develop their confidence, they will love the popular Dance and Drama Workshop. Enjoyed by boys and girls, children may enrol in either the dance or drama sessions (or both), with the week culminating in a wonderful showcase. Felsted’s Swimming and Life Saving Lessons are also very popular for children needing to develop this vital life skill. Book soon to ensure you don’t miss out - a 5% sibling discount is available. Full dates, details and prices can be found at www.felsted.org/courses or contact the Enterprises Office on 01371 822633 or email: courses@felsted.org
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Essex Wildlife Trust Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre & Nature Reserve.
Summertime Fun at Fabulous Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre & Nature Reserve Come rain or shine there is always a great activity on at Essex Wildlife Trust Fingringhoe Wick Visitor Centre & Nature Reserve. There are beachcombing events where you can come along and explore the seashore - shells, sand and more. Den building and campfire cooking are always popular. Every Friday there is Forest Fun for under 5’s. This is a child led play session in the lovely woodland. Climb ropes, get messy with mud and make music in the woods from 10am to 12pm. If you haven’t already tried pond dipping then this is a great activity for the family. All events are bookable. Please ring 01206 729678. See you soon
A great day out by Tube, steam train and bus! The Epping Ongar Railway is a unique attraction in London, being the only regular steam railway easily reached by Tube. As well as steam trains, the Railway runs regular vintage buses, included in your fare, which will collect you from right outside Epping Underground on the Central Line. This means that if you want an easy day out with the kids where you can see a steam train and ride on old-fashioned buses, then the Epping Ongar Railway must be the place that you will choose this summer. The Railway also hosts a series of special events throughout the summer. This year the fun includes Postman Pat, Chase & Marshall and the Gruffalo and Victorian Weekend. The Railway is open every weekend until the end of October and also on Wednesdays during August. For more information see www.eorailway.co.uk or call 01277 365200
20 Summer 17 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Summertime Fun
Colchester Castle Discover a world of fun this summer
Colchester Castle will provide a memorable family day out. The interactive exhibits will wow you! Ride a chariot around a Roman Circus, hear tales of battle and bravery from a Gladiator, enjoy the breathtaking son et lumiere light projection, excavate a doctor’s grave and much more! Follow the summer trail between the three sites: Colchester Castle, and the Hollytrees and Natural History Museums. Become an Archeological Detective in July, then visit the Castle Prisons in August and explore the dark side of life in the 18th Century. Celebrate the Festival of Archaeology by learning about the ancient craft of Roman mosaics and create your own mosaic coaster this summer - fun for all the family. Ever wondered what it would have been like to be a Roman soldier? Then sign up to Colchester’s Roman Army training camp and be put through your paces. Colchester Castle has joined forces with Leisure World in Colchester to recreate a Roman Army Camp. Become a Castle Pass member and enjoy 12 months of exploring the Castle! The Pass allows you to pay once and then come back as many times as you like in the year to explore the wealth of objects, varied activities and changing exhibitions in Colchester Castle. It also entitles members to exclusive invitation-only events, previews and special discounts.
Visit www.cimuseums.org.uk/whats-on for more information.
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www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • North Essex • 21
GAMES AND ACTIVITIES FOR ALL THE FAMILY Lock the gadgets away this summer and get back to some good old fashioned fun! Keeping kids happily entertained is generally easier over the summer months – assuming the weather is good of course! Getting out into a local park or just your own garden gives children a sense of freedom, aswell as an opportunity to really burn off some energy. If they have friends over, getting them out of the house can save a lot of tidying up. Most of us have a garden littered with brightly coloured plastic toys, balls, bats, bikes, scooters, slides etc. However, children can get bored of playing with these after a while, so it’s good to have some other ideas up your sleeve..……..
Cloud spotting Simplest game ever for a cloudy day. Lie on the grass and look up at the sky. What shapes and patterns can you spot?
Hill rolling If your garden or park has a slope, have fun just rolling down it! We all remember doing this when we were young!
Water balloons Make water balloons and have fun throwing them at each other. If you make lots you can use them to play water balloon piñata by hanging them on a washing line or from a branch and hit the balloons with a stick.
DIY swing If you’ve got a strong, tall tree in your garden, hang an old tyre to a sturdy branch using some robust rope tied with a double knot. Make sure an adult tests the swing to make sure it’s strong enough.
Makeshift garden den Attach a shower curtain to a hula hoop, then hang it from a tree – and there you have a quick garden den. Add blankets and cushions to make it extra comfy. If you are feeling ambitious, why not try making a teepee?
Homemade chalk paints
Natural Art
Make or buy wash-away chalk paints and the kids can use them to draw pictures on your outdoor paving. While you’ve got the chalk paints out, you could use them to draw up a grid for the classic, eternally popular game hopscotch. If you haven’t got outdoor paving, use an old sheet instead – it’s ready to bring inside when a downpour is looming!
Allow the children to collect leaves, grass, twigs, pebbles, feathers and anything else they can find and use it to create a collage picture, pattern or sculpture – can be done individually or all together.
Sports Day This can be as simple or as complicated as you want. Start with some simple running races, and then you can try a sack race (just use a bin bag), an obstacle course, skipping or even an egg and spoon race.
Scavenger Hunt Create a checklist of outdoor objects to find such as feathers, seed pods, unusual stones and acorns. Adapt your list to your surroundings. First person back to base with all the items wins.
Treasure Hunt Hide ‘treasure’ in a sand pit or patch of soil that is free for digging. The treasure can be anything from pegs to silver foil or sweets to 1p coins. Award prizes for the pirate with most treasure.
Garden Assault Course Make your own assault course. Jump through a ‘ring of fire’ (use a hula hoop), and splash through an icy ‘river’ (paddling pool filled with cold water). Sheets are great for crawling underneath (with the corners weighted down). Other ideas: toss cuddly toys into a laundry basket, or weave between baked bean cans placed at intervals.
Water Sprinkler Fun Get the garden water sprinkler going – the kids will love running through it and cooling off. If you haven’t got a sprinkler, just hand them the hose and let them go wild and get wet.
Fill it Up Give each child a small container and see who can collect the most different things that fit in it within 5/10/20 minutes. This is a good game for older children to play in teams with younger children. 22 Summer 17 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Crazy Hands Let the children paint their hands and feet, see who can create the wackiest designs. Then use the hose to clean the paint off and have more fun!
Rounders and racing games Simple games which are easy to play in a large park. If there are lots of you set up rounders or French Cricket - great for keeping you all active.
And a few ideas for when the weather doesn’t play ball……. Hide and Seek One of the oldest games – children have been playing it for generations – but one of the best.
Hot Potato Simply get any soft ball or rolled up socks and throw it to a child. They then have to throw it to someone else as quickly as possible. Each child repeats this. When does this game end? Who knows? Just get rid of it!
Keep the Balloon Up Incredibly simple but surprisingly popular – just blow up some balloons and tell the kids to keep the balloons from touching the floor. You’ll be amazed at how long they’ll play this game!
I Spy The classic game that you can play absolutely anywhere. Try some variations – limit the number of guesses each child gets. Or, say things like “I Spy something that is a circle.”
Board Games & Jigsaws Don’t forget all those board games you have tucked away. Our favourites are: Monopoly, Othello, Cluedo and Yahtzee. Jigsaws are a good way to fill a grey afternoon as are games such as hangman, squares and charades.
Summertime Fun Go wild this summer at Abberton Reservoir Nature reserve and visitor centre.
The visitor centre provides fantastic facilities for children and families and offers a wide range of activities. There are fantastic opportunities for families to get out and about enjoying the natural world: pond dipping and bug hunting sessions, get to know the characters of Brambly Hedge, bushcraft and campfire fun, marine activities and space themed sessions. You can also have a wild birthday party on the nature reserve. Themes include: Pirate treasure hunts, Fairies and Knights, Bug hunting, Pond dipping and marshmallow toasting. Activities last for 90 minutes and you would have the hire of the education room for an hour afterwards to serve food, play party games and use the play area. The centre is home to a well-stocked gift shop and tea room which overlooks the magnificent Abberton Reservoir and is well worth a visit. The tea room offers a range of hot food: locally sourced sausages and bacon go into the mouth-watering breakfast baps, paninis and homemade soups, and there is a large selection of cakes and scones that can all be enjoyed from the veranda. The nature reserve hosts the play area where children can go wild, climbing the wood tangle, relaxing in the nest swing, crossing the rope ridge and whizzing down the zip wire - perfect for letting off some summer holidays energy. The nature reserve and visitor centre is open from 9am – 5pm every day. Booking is essential for all events by calling 01206 738172.
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Barleylands Farm
Six Weeks of Summer – A new adventure every week! Keep the kids entertained and get out and about this summer with a new adventure to enjoy every week at Barleylands Farm Park in Billericay. There’s six weeks of fun with a host of different activities to enjoy from bug hunting, bird spotting and treasure hunts to magic mayhem and circus skills workshops. With something different to do every week of the school summer holidays, the six weeks of fun are: • Go Wild: (24th - 28th July) Bug hunt and bird spotting in the new aviary. Native bird of prey display and make a bird feeder • Animal Magic: (31st July - 4th August) Variety of animal themed interactive activities, petting, grooming and special talks • Treasure Hunters: (7th - 11th August) Take part in a family self-led treasure hunt, use your map and compass, solve the clues to find Old Gold Creek and pan for gold • Magic & Mayhem: (14th – 18th August) Back by popular demand Skittle Man and Colonel Custard return with bonkers fun and crazy shows • Rumble in the Jungle: (21st - 25th August) Meet jungle creatures in a host of interactive shows by the Snakes Alive Team • Barley Fest: (28th August - 1st September) It’s the first family festival – don’t miss all the entertainment and activities. Indoor and outdoor activities with something to do whatever the weather! Don’t forget to take a look around The Village during your visit – adjacent to the Farm Park, it’s the perfect place to browse more than 50 craft studios, shops and boutiques and enjoy a tasty treat in the Tiptree Tea Rooms. Plenty of free parking. Book your Farm Park tickets online to save 10% www.barleylands.co.uk
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Summer Giveaways!
Family entry to be won (four tickets) Escape to Alton Towers Resort for the ultimate Summer Holidays break!
CBeebies Land is bigger than ever this year: Go Jetters Vroomster Zoom ride and The Furchester Hotel Live Show join a land full of enchanting interactive rides and experiences, featuring favourite CBeebies characters. The world’s only CBeebies Land Hotel will join the Resort’s iconic accommodation line-up in July, with a jam-packed exclusive entertainment schedule, and vibrant CBeebies-themed rooms designed especially for little ones. To book your family day out visit: www.altontowers.com
WIN A SMIGGLE ACTIVITY BUNDLE! Smiggle - where a smile meets a giggle – is dedicated to creating original, fun and affordable stationery as well as all the essentials for a family day out.
! n i W
This competition prize includes a Backpack, Watch and a Water bottle for two lucky winners! http://www.smiggle.co.uk/shop/en/smiggleuk Up for grabs is this amazing Coleman Cortes Octagon 8 tent All you need for your perfect family holiday. See page 10 for further details.
A Family ticket to be won!
Win - this fantastic product from Oaxis (only pink available)
Adventures in Wonderland Ever been to Wonderland? Well now is your chance to experience “one of the best children’s shows for some time.” (The Stage). We have a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) to Adventures in Wonderland at The Vaults, London. Discover more on this interactive theatrical experience at alice-underground.com/aiw
OAXIS WatchPhone - The only children’s wrist phone which tracks, protects and allows real communication with children.The smartest way to protect your child. First 3G Children’s WatchPhone | Full-colour touch screen | One-touch SOS, GPS & Geo fencing | Classroom mode & fitness tracking We have tried and tested this great product which you can find at www.kidaround.biz/ competitions To find out more about this amazing watch or to purchase one for just £99.99 go to: www.oaxis.com
How to enter
To enter any of our competitions, visit www.kidaround.biz/competitions Full information and t&cs of these great giveaways can also be found online.
GOOD LUCK!
Summertime Fun
The Essex Sunshine Coast
The Essex Sunshine Coast - Brightlingsea, Clacton-onSea, Dovercourt, Frinton-on-Sea, Harwich, Jaywick Sands, Manningtree, Mistley, St Osyth and Walton-on-the-Naze. The surrounding area boasts picturesque villages steeped in a wealth of history surrounded by beautiful unspoiled country landscapes. With over 36 miles of coastline, the stunning seafront offers the traditions of the seaside with a modern twist. There are many events that take place throughout the year in and around the Essex Sunshine Coast, from the award winning Clacton Airshow held annually in August to carnivals, car shows, seaside festivals, fun family cycle rides and regattas. When the fresh sea air whets your appetite, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to fish and chip shops, cafés and coffee shops, where you can relax and watch the world go by. The main towns offer a unique selection of independent shops as well as popular high street names. Accommodation ranges from holiday parks and bed and breakfasts to boutique and luxury hotels, where prices remain competitive. With easy links by road, train, coach, ferry and plane, and the centre of London only an hour or so away, it is an easily accessible destination for that much needed getaway. You can park for free in Council run car parks (except The Naze and Holland Haven) between 6pm - 8am. Some dates for your diaries: Harwich Festival of the Arts, various venues in Harwich on 22nd June - 2nd July. Tendring Hundred Show, Manningtree on 8th July. Clacton Airshow, West Greensward, Clacton Seafront on 24th & 25th August (Evening flights Thursday only). Beside the Seaside festival, Dovercourt Bay, Harwich on 13th August. Walton Classic Car Show, Bath House Meadow on 10th September. For local information and events details log on to www.essex-sunshine-coast.org.uk and for Clacton Airshow log on to www.clactonairshow.com Social media links: Facebook: TheSunshineCoastOfficial Twitter: @ClactonAirshow
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www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • North Essex • 25
Summertime Fun The V&A 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 you can enjoy a new exhibition showcasing one of Britain’s best loved story makers. Michael Morpurgo: A Lifetime in Stories opens on 22 July. Explore the secrets behind Michael’s storytelling through his original drafts, adaptations, scripts and unpublished manuscripts; see the notebooks and manuscripts that became the classics we know today including War Horse, Private Peaceful, Kensuke’s Kingdom and Farm Boy. Meet Joey, the original life-size West End horse puppet from the National Theatre’s award-winning stage adaptation of War Horse and see original illustrations by, amongst others, Quentin Blake and Michael Foreman. Don’t miss the annual Summer Festival on Sunday 23 July when there will be a colourful mix of entertainment including live music, dance and walkabout acts, as well as designer stalls, food, face paints, henna, rickshaw rides, games and lots for kids to make and do. There is also a series of free events happening every Friday in August: Summertime Story Weaving Family days will be led by artists, writers and musicians, celebrating children’s literature and storytelling. See website for details on all exhibitions, events and family activities happening this summer: www.vam.ac.uk/moc/whatson You’ll find the Museum in vibrant East London, just 3 minutes from Bethnal Green tube, which is one stop on the Central line from Liverpool Street Station. V&A Museum of Childhood, Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA Entry is free.
26 Summer 17 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Summertime Fun The Audley End Miniature Railway
The Audley End Miniature Railway and Enchanted Fairy and Elf Walk is a family day out full of innocent fun and imagination! Spot the many teddies that live in the woods as you take an exciting trip on one of the trains - you may even get the chance to go on one of the steam engines! See how many things you can find on the Audley End Woodland I Spy Sheet too! Venture around the Fairy and Elf Walk to find the tiny fairies and elves that live in their handmade tree houses, make a Fairy or Elf wand with one of Audley End’s very own Fairies or Elves and then use it to tick your I Spy Booklet as you wind through the walk. Relax in the large picnic and play area as your children enjoy the variety of wooden play equipment, or treat yourself to locally sourced, home-made food and drink from the Signal Box Café. There is also a bouncy castle, swing boats and a vintage roundabout (weather depending) on site, along with the Model Engineers’ miniature trains that will run every weekend. Check out up and coming special events throughout the year. Postman Pat and Jess the Cat are visiting the Railway on the 1st & 2nd July. Tickets will be on sale at the start of June. To find out about opening times, prices and events please visit www.audley-end-railway.co.uk
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Ufford Park
Book a short break at Ufford Park Woodbridge and enjoy a fun-filled ‘staycation’ for the whole family - your four-legged friend is welcome too! Ufford Park is the ideal place to base yourself and explore all that Suffolk has to offer: from the beautiful Suffolk Heritage Coastline of Aldeburgh and Southwold for those leisurely walks, to the picturesque town of Woodbridge. Set just off the A12, amongst the trees in 120 acres overlooking the Deben Valley, Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa has so much to offer without having to travel far. It is home to an award-winning 18 hole, par 71 golf course and is generally regarded as an enjoyable, yet stern test of golf. Furthermore, its excellent natural drainage ensures greens are playable all-year round. It is home to Suffolk’s only 2-tier driving range, and during the summer of 2016, opened an 18-hole adventure golf course, Congo Rapids, which is perfect fun for the whole family to enjoy. For a little bit of relaxation, the Thermal Suite Spa is the perfect place for those mums and dads wanting to take some time out. It uses a series of heating and cooling experiences to guide your body through a sensory journey. A wide range of beauty treatments are also available. It is recommended that you pre-book time in the Thermal Suite and treatments, prior to your stay. The Family Leisure Breaks include overnight accommodation and a full English breakfast. You will also enjoy complimentary access to the Health Club with its deck-level swimming pool, poolside sauna, steam room and spa bath. Contact Ufford Park on 0844 847 9403 for more details or visit the website www.uffordpark.co.uk
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Diary Dates Use our comprehensive list of events to ensure your family time is packed full of fun this Summer. Sat 15 & Sun 16 London Transport Weekend Have a taste of the Underground days, featuring the famous Met1 steam locomotive. £8 child/£15 adult, £39/ family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk
Sat 15 Colour5K Fun Run
Wed 21-Fri 23 Little Legs Festival Including inflatables, sandpit, fairground and face painting. Age: 0-5yrs. 9.30am3.30pm. £5 entry, under 12mths free. Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens, CM7 9AE. www.spectrumscreenevents.co.uk/ little-legs-festival/
Sat 24 & Sun 25 Victorian Weekend A taste of the Victorian era with reenactment groups and a Victorian Curiosity Show and all steam services. £8 child/£15 adult, £39/family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk
Sun 25 Classic Car Show Cars plus face painting and themed activities. £5; under 12s free. Cressing Temple Barns, CM77 8PD. www.visitessex.com
Sun 25 Steam Day Steam train and miniature railway. 10.30am. Adult: £10, Child: £5. Colne Valley Railway, Castle Hedingham, CO9 3DZ. www.colnevalleyrailway.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
28 Summer • Summer1717• North • North Essex Essex • www.kidaround.biz • www.kidaround.biz
Sat 1 & Sun 2 Postman Pat and Jess the Cat The world’s favourite postman and his black and white cat will be appearing at intervals on each day. Tickets available beginning of June. Audley End Miniature Railway, CB11 4JB. www.audley-end-railway.co.uk
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Sat 1 Summer Fete Rides and inflatables, stalls, arena displays and sports activities, BBQ. 1-4pm. Adult: 50p, children free. Old Heath Community Primary School, Colchester, CO2 8DD (entrance via Abbot’s Road).
Sat 1 Party in the Park Children’s games and entertainment, stalls, crafts and demonstrations, falconry, dog show, donkey rides. 126pm. Clare Castle Country Park, CO10 8NW. www.visitessex.com. Free Entry
Sun 2 & 9 Steam Day Steam train and miniature railway. 10.30am. Adult: £10, Child: £5. Colne Valley Railway, Castle Hedingham, CO9 3DZ. www.colnevalleyrailway.co.uk/
Sat 8 & Sun 9 Tractor & Country Show Tractors, archery, bouncy castle & side shows. 10.30am-5pm. Proceeds to Essex Air Ambulance. Blake House Craft Centre, Nr Braintree, CM77 6RA. 01376 551023 www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk
Sat 15 - Sun 3 (Sept) Summer Holidays Train rides, enchanted fairy and elf walk, picnic and play area, Signal Box Cafe and gift shop. 10am-5pm. Audley End Miniature Railway, CB11 4JB. www.audley-end-railway.co.uk
Aimed at a variety of runners, a 5K run with a difference - at each kilometre get showered with 100% safe coloured powder! Also a 1K run for children over 5 yrs. £22 Adult, £60 Family ticket and £10 Child. Ardleigh Showground, nr Colchester. www.headwayessex.org.uk
Sat 15 Summer Fayre Live music, bouncy castles, pony rides, bbq, penalty shoot out, and much more family fun. 1pm - 4pm Felsted Primary School CM6 3EB 01371 820215
Sat 15 Minibeasts Minibeast hunting with Colchester zoo education team and Castle Park Rangers. Castle Park, Colchester, CO1 1TJ. www.visitcolchester.com
Sun 16 Fireman Sam Fireman Sam will make appearances throughout the day, plus steam trains and miniature railway. 10.30am. Adult: £12, child: £6. Colne Valley Railway, Castle Hedingham, CO9 3DZ. www.colnevalleyrailway.co.uk/
Fri 21 Wind in the Willows Adaptation of the classic novel. Bring a picnic. Adult £15, Child £10. Melford Hall, Long Melford, CO10 9AA. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/melfordhall. 08712 200260 or www.seetickets.com.
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Sat 22 - Sun 10 (Sept) The Original Great Maze The 2017 maize maze challenge is on! 10am-4pm. Adult: £5, Child £3. Blake House Craft Centre, Nr Braintree, CM77 6RA. 01376 553146. www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk
Sun 23 Summer Festival
Thur 27 Bug Hunting
Including music, dance, walkabout acts, stalls and face paints. Suitable all ages. 11.30am – 4.30pm. Museum of Childhood, London, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/moc/events/vamuseum-childhoods-summer-festival/.
Search for some cool bugs. 10.30am – 12.30pm. All ages welcome but must be accompanied. £6. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE
Free Event
Sun 23 World War 11 Open Day
Fri 28 – Sun 30 Real Ale Weekend
Learn about the Lodge’s role in the Second World War. 11am-5pm. Adult: £4, children free. Gardens of Easton Lodge, Great Dunmow, CM6 2BB. www.eastonlodge.co.uk
Cask beers, ciders and music – with an intensive bus and train service during the day. Standard fares apply. £13 adults, £7 children, £34 family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk
Mon 24 – Fri 28 Go Wild
Fri 28 & Sat 29 Wild Family Camp Out
Bug hunt and bird spotting. Bird of prey display and make a bird feeder. 10am – 5pm. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD. www.barleylands.co.uk
3pm – 12 noon. £40. Loshes Wood, off Clay Hill, Gt Henny, Sudbury, CO10 7LX. facebook.com/hollysforestsessions/ events holly@holkham.net BE
Mon 24 Wild Family Forest Fun Including bushcraft skills, tree climbing, bug hunting. 10 - 12.30pm. Daws Hall Nature Reserve, Lamarsh, CO8 5EX. £10 for first child + £4 per sibling. facebook.com/hollysforestsessions/ events. holly@holkham.net BE
Tue 25 Wild Bushcraft Age: 6-12 yrs (no parents allowed!). £30. Loshes Wood, off Clay Hill, Gt Henny, Sudbury, CO10 7LX. facebook. com/hollysforestsessions/events holly@holkham.net BE
Wed 26 Beatrix Potter Day Find her famous story characters by following the clues to the garden trail, plus games. Age: 3yrs+. 12 - 4.30pm. £3. Melford Hall, Long Melford, CO10 9AA. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/melfordhall
Wed 26 Dens Could you survive overnight in the woods? Have a go at building a sturdy den in the woodland. 10am – 12pm. £6. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. www.essexwt.org.uk
Thur 27 & Fri 28 Kids Only Camp Out 5pm - 10.30am. £40. Loshes Wood, off Clay Hill, Gt Henny, Sudbury, CO10 7LX. facebook.com/hollysforestsessions/ events holly@holkham.net BE
Sat 29 & Sun 30 Medieval Pop Up Meet Medieval re-enactors, plus craft activities. Suitable all ages. 10am-4:30pm. Cressing Temple Barns, Braintree, CM77 8PD. 0330132738 www.visitparks.co.uk Free Event
Sun 30 Sea Festival Family fun both on and off the water. 11am. Harwich Quay. www.essex-sunshine-coast.org.uk
Free Event
Mon 31 – Fri 4 (Aug) Animal Magic Animal themed interactive activities including petting, grooming, and talks. 10am – 5pm. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD. www.barleylands.co.uk
Epping and Ongar Railway. Please see page 24 for more information.
Tue 1 Family Orienteering Learn how to navigate using a compass then follow an orienteering route. 10am-12pm. £5 per family. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. www.essexwt.org.uk
Tue 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Brambly Hedge Adventures A day of fun and adventures based around Jill Barklem’s Brambly Hedge stories. All ages welcome but must be accompanied. £6. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE
Wed 2 Beach Bonfire & Hunt Scour the beach for treasures, plus stories around the bonfire. Age: 6yrs+, accompanied. 11am-3:30pm. £7. Main Carpark, Cudmore Grove Country Park, East Mersea, CO5 8UE. 01206 383868 www.visitparks.co.uk BE
Thur 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Bug Hunting Search for some cool bugs. 10.30am – 12.30pm. All ages welcome but must be accompanied. £6. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE
Thur 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Pond Dipping Come and explore the depths of our ponds. 1 – 3pm. All ages welcome but must be accompanied. £6. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE
Fri 4, 11, 18, 25, 1 (Sept) Trail Trackers Take a walk on this week’s nature trail. All ages welcome but must be accompanied. 10.30-12.30pm. £6. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE
ADVERTISING IN KIDAROUND WORKS. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO FIND OUT MORE, PLEASE DO CALL US ON 01245 206577 OR GO ONLINE TO DOWNLOAD OUR MEDIA CARD
www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • North Essex • 29
Meet Adelle at Hasty’s Farm see page 26 for their advert.
Fri 4, 11, 18, 25, 1 (Sept) Arty Crafters Fun craft. All ages welcome but must be accompanied. 1-3pm. £6. Abberton Reservoir Visitor Centre, CO2 OEU. 01206 738172. www.essexwt.org.uk BE
Fri 4 Folk Family Day Musical events and performances. Suitable all ages. 11am – 4pm. Museum of Childhood, London, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/moc/events/ summertime-storyweaving/
Free Event
Sat 5 & Sun 6 PAW Patrol Chase and Marshall from PAW Patrol return to visit the Railway with appearances throughout the day at North Weald and other activities. £8 child/£15 adult, £39/family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations, 01277 365200, www.eorailway.co.uk
Mon 7 – Fri 11 Treasure Hunters Family self-led treasure hunt. Use your map and compass to solve the clues to find Old Gold Creek and pan for gold. 10am – 5pm. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD. www.barleylands.co.uk
Tue 8 Campfire Cooking Cook both sweet and savoury treats over an open fire. Please inform of any food allergies. Age: 5yrs+. 1.30-3.30pm. £8. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. www.essexwt.org.uk
Wed 9 Wildlife Activities
Tue 15 & Wed 16 Picnic and Play
Wildlife spotting and arts and crafts. Age: 4-11yrs, must be accompanied. 11am - 1pm. £3. Bobbingworth Nature Reserve, Moreton, CM5 0LL. www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/out-andabout/countrycare BE
Storytelling, puppet show, trail and outdoor games. Bring a picnic. Age: 2-12yrs. £3. 11am-4pm. Cressing Temple Barns, Braintree, CM77 8PD. 0330132738 www.visitparks.co.uk
Thur 10 Brilliant Birds
Follow the trail, build a nest and learn about how birds talk to each other. 10am – 12pm. Accompanied children £6. One adult per child free, additional adults £3. The Beth Chatto Gardens, CO7 7DB. www.bethchatto.co.uk/courses
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Thur 10 Pond Patrol Discover mini beasts of the deep and create your own creature cards. 1.30pm – 3.30pm. Accompanied children £6. One adult per child free, additional adults £3. The Beth Chatto Gardens, CO7 7DB. www.bethchatto.co.uk/courses
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Fri 11 Journey of Joey See Joey the puppet from War Horse and join in activities and events inspired by him. Suitable all ages. 11am–4pm. Museum of Childhood, London, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/moc/events/ summertime-storyweaving/.
Free Event
Sat 12 & Sun 13 Vintage Steam Rally Steam traction engines and classic cars at North Weald Station. £8 child/£15 adult, £39/family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk
Sat 12 & Sun 13 Medieval Fair Experience the tastes and sounds of living history, plus crafts stalls. Normal admission fee applies. Grange Barn, Coggeshall, Colchester, CO6 1RE. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Sat 12 Wrabfest
Bring your teddy for a walk and picnic – how much wildlife will we see along the way? 1.30 – 3.30pm. £6/child, must be accompanied. Please bring a picnic. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. www.essexwt.org.uk BE
Thur 17 Garden Gang Plant a miniature garden, invent some scavenger artworks and decorate our wild garden trees. 10.30am – 2pm. Accompanied children £8. One adult per child free, additional adults £3. The Beth Chatto Gardens, CO7 7DB. www.bethchatto.co.uk/courses. BE
Fri 18 Morpurgo’s Menagerie Wildlife themed activities with animals from Spitalfields City Farm. Suitable all ages. 11am – 4pm. Museum of Childhood, London, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/moc/events/ summertime-storyweaving/
Free Event
Sat 19 & Sun 20 The Gruffalo Making his first visit to the Railway along with a display of birds of prey from the Epping Forest Hawk and Owl Sanctuary. £8 child/£15 adult, £39/ family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk
Sat 19 & Sun 20 Medieval Pop Up Meet Medieval re-enactors, plus craft activities. Suitable all ages. 10am4:30pm.Cressing Temple Barns, Witham Road, Braintree, CM77 8PD. 0330 132738 www.visitparks.co.uk
Free Event
Mon 21 – Fri 25 Rumble in the Jungle
Family friendly music festival with children’s activities between 11am5pm. Wrabness, CO11 2TG. www.wrabfest.co.uk
Meet jungle creatures in interactive shows by the Snakes Alive team. 10am – 5pm. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD www.barleylands.co.uk
Mon 14 – Fri 18 Magic & Mayhem
Tue 22 & Wed 23 Wildlife Fair
Skittleman & Colonel Custard return with fun and shows! 10am – 5pm. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD. www.barleylands.co.uk
30 Summer 17 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz
Tue 15 Teddy Bear’s Picnic
Stands and activities in the beautiful gardens. 10am – 4pm. Accompanied children FREE. Adults: normal garden entrance applies. The Beth Chatto Gardens, CO7 7DB. www.bethchatto.co.uk/courses BE
Tue 22 Treasure Hunt
Mon 28 – Fri 1 (Sep) Barley Fest
Will you find where X marks the spot and the treasure chest? 10am – 12pm. £6/child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. www.essexwt.org.uk BE
A family festival with entertainment and activities. 10am – 5pm. Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, CM11 2UD. www.barleylands.co.uk
Wed 23 Picnic and Play Storytelling, puppet show, trail and outdoor games. Bring a picnic. Age: 2-12yrs. 11am-4pm. £3. Main Carpark, Cudmore Grove Country Park, East Mersea, CO5 8UE. 01206 383868 www.visitparks.co.uk
Tue 29 Bugs and Beasties Creature hunting, pond dipping and uncovering mini beasts. 10.30am – 2pm. Accompanied children £8. One adult per child free, additional adults £3. The Beth Chatto Gardens, CO7 7DB. www.bethchatto.co.uk/courses
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Thur 24 & Fri 25 Air Show
Thur 31 Summer Safari
Including Red Arrows display, plus entertainment. Thur: 11am-8.30pm, Fri: 11am-5pm. Marine Parade West, Clacton on Sea, CO15 1NW. www.clactonairshow.com
Sweep net for mini beasts and enjoy outdoor messy wild art. 1.30pm – 3.30pm. Accompanied children £6. One adult per child free, additional adults £3. The Beth Chatto Gardens, CO7 7DB. www.bethchatto.co.uk/courses BE
Free Event
Thur 24 Little Dinosaurs Dino themed fun for future palaeontologists. Age: under 5’s. 1.30-3.30pm. £6/child, must be accompanied. Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve, CO5 7DN. www.essexwt.org.uk. BE
Including bushcraft skills, tree climbing, bug hunting. 10am - 12 noon. £10/ child; £2/sibling. Loshes Wood, Gt Henny, CO10 7LX facebook.com/hollysforestsessions/events holly@holkham.net BE
Sat 26 Wind in the Willows Outdoor production of the classic book. 2.30-4.30pm. Adult: £15, child: £10. Bring a rug. National Trust Flatford, East Bergholt, CO7 6UL. www.chapterhouse.org
Sun 27 & Mon 28 Jousting Charging horses and chivalric skill!. Plus entertainment, food, music, falconry and re-enactors. 10am-5pm. Hedingham Castle, CO9 3DJ. www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk
Sun 3 Classic Car Show Classic car show plus train rides. Standard fares apply - £13 adults, £7 children, £34 family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk
Fri 8
Bat Evening Use bat detectors. 7-8.30pm. £2.50. Children welcome. Tiptree Heath Nature Reserve, Colchester, CO5 0PU. www.essexwt.org.uk BE
How fast can a lawnmower go? 10am-5pm. Proceeds to Essex Air Ambulance. Blake House Craft Centre, Nr Braintree, CM77 6RA. 01376 551023 www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk
Join in a collaborative word sculpture and play with words, letters and sounds. Suitable all ages. 11am – 4pm. Museum of Childhood, London, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/moc/events/ summertime-storyweaving/
Fri 25 Wild Family Forest Fun
London Square Mile
Sat 9 & Sun 10 Lawnmower Racing
Fri 25 Little Word Weaving
Free Event
Archikids Festival. Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd July. City of
Sun 10
Classic Car Show
Fri 1 Art of Books Day Discover the world of book design and illustration with London Centre for Book Arts. Suitable all ages. 11am4pm. Museum of Childhood, London, E2 9PA. www.vam.ac.uk/moc/events/ summertime-storyweaving/
Free Event Sat 2
Plus entertainment and family fun. 10am-4pm. Walton on the Naze. www.essex-sunshine-coast.org.uk
Free Event Sun 10
Red & Green Rover Special bus running day with lots of classic and special buses. Standard train fares apply - £13 adults, £7 children, £34 family. Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar & North Weald Stations. 01277 365200. www.eorailway.co.uk
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Sun 10
Open air adaption of the Shakespearean classic, with music, songs and audience interaction. £6/ child, £9/adult, under 2’s free. 3pm6pm. Main Carpark, Cudmore Grove Country Park, East Mersea, CO5 8UE. 01206 383868 www.visitparks.co.uk
Fly your own or make one (£2). Plus demonstrations of show and stunt kites. 12-5pm. Layer Marney Tower, CO5 9US. www.layermarneytower.co.uk
Kite Festival
Check with each event provider before travelling and do let them know you saw it in Kidaround Magazine!
DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING
www.kidaround.biz www.kidaround.biz••Summer Summer17 17• •North NorthEssex Essex•• 31
Kumon Drop-in sessions Tues, Weds, Fri 3:30pm-6:30pm, Thurs 3:30pm7:30pm and Sat 9:30am-12:30pm at Kumon Colchester North Study Centre, Highwoods Square, CO4 9SW. Ms Elaine Plumb. 01206 615458 www.kumon.co.uk/colchester-north ENG MAT
BRAINTREE
Ace Tuition Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Ofsted registered, professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. 11 Plus, GCSE and SATs preparation. Daytime tuition also available. 01206 570700 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk 11+ ENG MAT SAT SCI SEN Kumon Drop-in. Tuesdays 4.30pm-6.30pm, Saturdays 10am-12pm. Braintree Study Centre, St. Paul’s Parsonage. Mrs Kunjan Pandya 01279 851864 braintree@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT
CLACTON
Ace Tuition Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Ofsted registered, professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. 11 Plus, GCSE and SATs preparation. Daytime tuition also available. 73a Station Road. Iain McKenzie 01255 688896 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN
COLCHESTER
Ace Tuition Tuition for 5-16 year olds. Ofsted registered, professional and experienced teachers in English and Maths. Daytime classes available for home-schooled students. Unit 3, Tollgate East, Stanway CO3 8RQ. Iain McKenzie 01206 571846 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk
Learning Academies Ltd iAchieve Extra Tuition. High quality, individualised extra tuition for 4-16yr olds. Open 6 days a week. Academy House, CO7 8HJ www.learningacademies.co.uk. Matthew Brakenbury 0845 463 1342 info@learningacademies.co.uk 11+,ENG MAT SAT Theatre Arts Academy Private tuition/coaching. Small group & individual coaching for stage school/agent auditions, drama scholarships & LAMDA exams with. Call 07715 324267
HARLOW
Kumon Drop-in sessions Mondays and Wednesdays 4pm-6pm at Harlow Study Centre, St John’s Arts and Recreation Centre, St John’s Walk. Mrs Chizuru Cheung 01279 423345 Harlow@kumoncentre.co.uk ENG MAT
HARWICH
Ace Tuition Community Centre, Barrack Lane. Iain McKenzie 01255 688896 acetuition@hotmail.co.uk ENG LAN MAT SCI
WITHAM
SchoolServe Educational consultancy offering individual tuition at Centre or home by registered teachers. 01376 502561 or 07751 074616 or 01621 858636 www.schoolserve.info 11+ ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN
ENG ICT LAN MAT SAT SCI SEN
Anna Spurgeon BA Hons. PGCE 11+ tuition. Very high pass rate. Small group sessions. Fourteen years 11+ experience. Call Anna on 01206 738239/ 07500 339181 11+ Colchester Language Academy Specialise in the planning and delivery of language courses for children, adults, and international students. They also offer languages services such as translations, transcribing and interpreting. 01206 673736/ 07880 711509 info@colchesterlanguages.com www.colchesterlanguages.com LAN
First Class Learning Tuition for children aged from 6-16 years in English, Maths and Science. Mason Rd (behind The Range), Lorraine McKenzie 01206 570700 colchester@firstclasslearning.co.uk
LISTINGS KEY
11+ 11 PLUS ENG ENGLISH ICT COMPUTING LAN LANGUAGES MAT MATHEMATICS MUS MUSIC SAT SATs SCI SCIENCE SEN SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS
Be part of our Education Feature in the next issue. Call 01245 206577 for more information.
11+ ENG MAT 32 Summer 17 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz
EDUCATION
DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING
www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • North Essex • 33
TUTOR FEATURE
Learning Academies
iAchieve – the Extra Tuition Programme for 4-16 year olds. Tuition Centres across NE Essex At Learning Academies the iAchieve Extra Tuition Programme offers HIGH QUALITY, INDIVIDUALISED extra tuition in maths and English that really does make a difference. Choosing a tuition provider for your child can be a minefield! iAchieve are confident that if you choose the iAchieve Extra Tuition Programme you will not be disappointed. Your child will: • Make excellent academic progress in a safe and accredited learning environment. • Achieve their education goals and challenge themselves to excel. • Grow in confidence, resilience and self-motivation. “Thank you so much for the support you have given Sam with his maths and English. Finding the iAchieve Programme has been a life-saver for us! I just wish we’d found you sooner. I now feel that Sam will start secondary school with confidence.” iAchieve has become a trusted and proven approach to extra tuition. They can guarantee you: A curriculum that is personalised to YOUR child. Small group sizes that will never exceed six. Exceptional tutors who teach using current methods and approaches. Proven traditional tutoring methods enhanced by access to cutting edge resources accessed via tablet technologies. Ongoing assessments and an open door policy to discuss attainment. Rewards and motivations including medals and certificates. Fees that are fair and reasonable. “We were delighted when Josh secured a place at the Grammar. Your 11+ programme was challenging and just what he needed to ensure he secured his place.” For more information or to discuss your child’s needs please call 0845 463 1342 or email info@learningacademies.co.uk. You can also find iAchieve online at www.learningacademies.co.uk
Anna Spurgeon 11+ Tuition BA HONS. PGCE.
Anna Spurgeon is a fully-qualified and experienced teacher. She has been tutoring solely for the 11+ for thirteen years with an exceptionally high pass rate. She offers small group sessions where a thorough approach to the examination is delivered in a systematic way. Anna Spurgeon’s lessons are highly-motivating and inspirational. The children gain in academic confidence, thriving in the energetic and positive teaching style utilised. They enjoy studying English, mathematics, verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning and creative writing, preparing them not just for the examination at the end but for a love of learning for life. Anna’s small groups offer a systematic and thorough approach to the 11+ curriculum delivered in an inspiring way, resulting in exceptional pass rates. Anna also offers assessments for 11+. For more information call 01206 738239 or 07500 339181
SCHOOLSERVE
Educational Consultancy Schoolserve offers a range of oneto-one education, coaching and tutoring classes. Certified Courses and Exams available. The Centre prepares students for 11+ Entrance Examination, GCSE, GCE and SATs on a one-to-one basis. Based in Witham, a personalised service is available to students, mature students and parents, providing specialist advice, consultation, tuition and support for those from the UK and overseas. Make an appointment for a free Consultation and Assessment at the Centre. Telephone 01376 502561 email: enquiries@schoolserve.info or visit www.schoolserve.info
34 Summer 17 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz
TUTOR FEATURE
Ace Tuition Help Your Child Reach Their Full Potential with Ace Tuition Centres Ace Tuition Centres offer a unique and well proven method of tuition. If your child needs support in Maths or English, Ace Tuition can help. Members of the Association of Professional Tuition Centres with over 35 Centres in the UK, they have a reputation for delivering quality tuition at affordable prices. They cover all of North Essex from Chelmsford to Clacton. Students attend a Centre where they are assessed. This presents a picture of their present skill level and allows Ace Tuition to target areas where support is needed. All Centres cater for a spectrum of abilities and ages from 6 – 16 years. Some are high achievers who need to be stretched further, whilst others simply need encouragement and support to achieve their full learning potential. Centres are located in Colchester at Mason Road (by Range) and 99 London Rd Stanway (next to Seapets), Station Rd Clacton and a new Centre in Harwich. Sessions normally last 80 minutes which gives time for six different enjoyable activities in English and Maths. Every student follows their own individual study plan using worksheets, textbooks and software materials. The tutor is available to guide them through it. Homework is then set for completion before the next lesson. Ace Tuition are also exam centres. Your child will enjoy learning with Ace Tuition, who use a variety of teaching methods to maximise the child’s learning potential. The child can work at their own pace to progress. As they achieve and succeed in reaching their learning goals their confidence will grow. Older students study with specialist teachers in English, Maths and Science. Other improvements mean Ace Tuition can offer individual 1:1 tuition or home tuition. Facilities to study from home are also provided, which starts from £7 per week and can be combined with lessons taught at centre if desired. Parents get weekly reports with guidance for improvement. For more information or to arrange a free assessment call 01206 570700 or 01255 688896.
DON’T FORGET TO MENTION US WHEN CALLING
www.kidaround.biz • Summer 17 • North Essex • 35
GET ACTIVE DANCE
Theatricool Dance Squad Freestyle dance class, no experience needed. Ages 7-16. Wednesdays 6-7pm. Theatricool Studio, Colchester, CO1 1XA 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk Scottish Highland Dance For fun
or to take part in exams, competitions or shows. Contact Sharon Radcliffe on 07732 580309 or email: sharon.radcliffe@googlemail.com
DRAMA/PERFORMING ARTS
Braintree Theatretrain Saturday 10am-1pm at Tabor High School. Theatretrain the company that loves to perform. Performing arts training for 6-18 year olds. Call 01787 473150 braintree@theatretrain.co.uk www.theatretrain.co.uk Colchester Theatre Arts Academy offer quality performance training from 4 yrs up. Call 07715 324267/ theatreartsacademy@outlook.com www.theatreartsacademy.co.uk
Colchester Theatretrain Sat 10am1pm at The Oak Tree Centre, Harwich Road. Theatretrain the company that loves to perform. Performing arts training for 6-18 year olds. 01787 473150. www.theatretrain.co.uk colchester@theatretrain.co.uk. KATS (Kids Acting and Theatre Skills) Age 5-11. The fun, friendly theatre company. Saturday 9.30 11.00, Headgate Theatre, Colchester. Free trial session. Sarah Young 07939 401640 / sykats@hotmail.co.uk KATS (Kids Acting and Theatre Skills) Age 11-18. Established performing theatre company. Saturday 11.00 - 1.00, Headgate Theatre, Colchester. Sarah Young 07939 401640 / ykats@hotmail.co.uk Little Stars Drama Drama classes to enhance and nurture inherent talent for ages 4-7. Term-time Mondays, 3.35–4.35pm. £5. Nayland 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk Stagecoach (Braintree) Performing arts classes for 4-18 year olds. Saturdays 10am -1 pm, 6- 18 years, 10-15am-11.45am, 4-6 years. Notley High School Braintree. 01376 743788 www.stagecoach.co.uk/braintree. Call Julie Berridge (Principal)
Stagecoach (Colchester) Performing arts classes for 4-18 year olds, on Saturdays at the Sixth Form College. Call Caroline Maxwell 0845 603 0880 Stagecoach (Sudbury) Performing arts classes for 4-18 year olds. Thomas Gainsborough School, Gt Cornard. For full information please call Katie on 01473 601078 Theatricool Performing Arts Lower School Learn to act, sing, dance and perform! Ages 4-6. Saturday mornings. Theatricool Studio, Colchester, CO1 1XA 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk Theatricool Performing Arts Upper School Learn to act, sing, dance and perform! Ages 6-16. Saturday mornings. Colchester Institute 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk TPA (Theatricool Performance Academy) Training for 13-20 year olds in theatre, audition prep, stage combat, vocal health, drama school prep. Regular theatre performance opportunities. Fridays 7.35-10pm. 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk
GOLF
Footgolf and Pizza Footgolf is a great way of spending some time with the family or simply have a giggle. £12.50 per adult. £7 per child. T&C’s apply. www.playgolfworld.com. 01206 843333. colchester@playgolfworld.com
GYMNASTICS
Colchester School of Gymnastics Pre-School weekdays : Baby gym (Under 2) 9:30-10:30am. Gym Fun (2-5 yrs) 9:00-11:00am. Gym Jam (up to 5 yrs ) Tues 10:45-11:15am. Afternoon Fun Wed 1:30 – 2:30 free play, structure & music. 01206 844188 Iceni Gymnastics Club For all ages: Baby Gym, Parent and Toddler, Structured Pre-school, Recreational, My Gym, Adult and Competition. For times and availability please contact Annette on 07773 891 563 Annette.iceni@yahoo.co.uk. Unit 1B, Moss Road, Colchester CO3 0LE School Age Gymnastic & Trampoline Weekdays from 4pm, all day Saturday & Sunday mornings. Colchester School of Gymnastics 01206 844188 info@ colchestergymnastics.com www.colchestergymnastics.com
36 • Summer 17 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz
MARTIAL ARTS
Claymation Build a set, mould characters out of clay and create an animation using stop motion techniques. £25 Fri 18th August, 10 am - 1 pm, 7+ 01206 560255, www.signals.org.uk/
Martial Arts Kid Kick Karate 6-8 yrs, Kickboxing 9 yrs+, Korean Karate 8 yrs+, Little Dragons 3-5 yrs. Junior Grappling 6 yrs+, Boxing 9 yrs+. At SD Martial Arts, Eastgates, Colchester 01206 860008 www.sdsma.co.uk
Colchester Summer Stage School with Theatre Arts Academy 24th28th July. 5yrs-18yrs. See our Ad for 10% discount, Page 13. 07715 324267.
Little Grasshoppers 18 mths-4yrs Fri 10am-11am. Little Monkeys crawling 4 yrs Thursdays 10am-11.15am at SD Martial Arts, Eastgates, Colchester 01206 860008 www.sdsma.co.uk
NETBALL
KATS Netball Club Netball at HIghwoods for primary school girls every Saturday at 9.15am, senior girls every Wednesday at 6:30pm. Call Kim on 07788 887923
PLAY
Little Kingfishers Children up to 10 years will have great fun exploring the 4-tiered play frame. 01787 375656. www.ssleisure.co.uk
RUGBY
Little Scrummers Rugby Tag rugby
for 2-6yrs across 3 counties. FREE TRIAL www.littlescrummers.com 0330 0881172
SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES
Barracudas the UK’s No.1 children’s activity camp offering fantastic activities for 4.5-14 years at 40 locations for Easter and summer. 0845 1235299 www.barracudas.co.uk Cheerleading 31 July – 3 August Perfect for children interested in keeping fit, learning about new ways to exercise and making new friends. 01371 822633, courses@felsted.org, www.felsted.org/Cheerleading CHUMS. School holiday camp for 5-14 year-olds is a one-stop shop for a programme full of sports and creative activities. 01206 873250 www.essex.ac.uk/sport/activities/ chums@essex.ac.uk
Creative Camp Arts and crafts activities with puppet making and set design, ending with a filmed performance. £120. Wed 23rd - Fri 25th August, 10 am - 4 pm. 9+ 01206 560255. www.signals.org.uk Dance & Drama 24 – 28 July Dance and Drama offers children the opportunity to learn a huge variety of performance technique. Boys and girls of all levels and experience are welcome.01371 822633, courses@felsted.org, www.felsted.org/DanceDrama Fairy Garden Workshops 27th July 2017, 10.30am or 1pm, £18.95pp, age 4+. Must book. info@fairygardensuk.co.uk call 01206 899698 Film Camp Get hands on with the elements of filmmaking, including; scriptwriting, set design, cinematography and editing. £80 Wed 16th - Thur 17th August, 10 am 4 pm. 11+ 01206 560255. www.signals.org.uk Hockey 7 – 11 August. This challenging course is aimed at introducing and practising various skill sets. 01371 822633. courses@felsted.org, www.felsted.org/hockeycamp Kingfisher Leisure Centre Wet “n” Wild session during holidays 2pm4pm, Monday-Saturday. Learn to swim with swim school. 01787 375656 www.ssleisure.co.uk
GET ACTIVE & LET’S PARTY Multi-Activity 24 July – 18 August. Teds (ages 5-8) and Tigers (ages 9-14) is an exciting camp for young children wanting to keep busy and have fun over the summer holidays. 01371 822633, courses@felsted.org, www.felsted.org/MultiActivity Multi-Sports 17 – 21 July / 21 – 25 August / 29 August – 1 September. Keep fit and make friends on this fun multi-sports camp. 01371 822633, courses@felsted.org, www.felsted.org/MultiSports Swimming 24 - 28 July / 31 July - 4 August. Felsted’s swimming courses provide the perfect opportunity for children to receive quality coaching in small groups, by qualified and experienced teachers. 01371 822633. courses@felsted.org, www.felsted.org/Swimmingcamp Stop Motion Animation Make miniature sets and characters, with art materials and create your own animated film. £25 Fri 28th July, 10 am - 1 pm, 7+ 01206 560255, www.signals.org.uk/ Tech Camp Design, program and build your own robots using Raspberry Pi and Arduino micro controllers. £120 Wed 9th - Fri 11th August, 10 am - 4 pm, 9+. 01206 560255, www.signals.org.uk/ Squash 14 - 16 August. This three day squash course provides a unique chance for new and improving players from ages 9 to 14. 01371 822633. courses@felsted.org, www.felsted.org/Squashcamp
Video Games with Scratch Make your own 2D video game using scratch programming language and create your own custom game controller. £35 Fri 4th August, 10 am 3 pm, 9+. 01206 560255, www.signals.org.uk/
SINGING
Theatricool show choir. Acoustic harmony group for ages 7-16. Term-time Saturdays, 12.30–1.30, Colchester Institute. £5/session. www.theatricool.co.uk
SWIMMING
Aquafun an inflatable session. Term-time 2pm–4pm Saturday & Sunday. School Holidays 2pm–4pm Mon, Wed & Thurs. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000 Swim School Babies to 12 years. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000 www.colchesterleisureworld.co.uk Swim School at Kingfisher from 6 months to 99 years. 01787 375656 www.ssleisure.co.uk
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Let’s Party Listings To help finding your perfect venue, gift &/or entertainer . Please mention KidAround when calling. More listings can also be found online at
www.kidaround.biz
ACTIVITY PARTIES
PARTY PLACES
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
Hall for Hire Theatricool Studio for hire for rehearsal space, children’s parties, vintage and corporate events. Belle Vue Rd, Colchester, CO1 1XA 07736 713909 enquiries@theatricool.co.uk
Jenny Holiday Magic, songs with banjo & guitar, balloon-modelling, games, limbo, karaoke, bubbles, junior discos. For 1-11 year olds. 07957121764 www.jennyholiday.co.uk facebook - search - Jenny Holiday Children’s Entertainer
Loofer’s, family friendly restaurant with freshly made food and the best coffee in town. Perfect for birthday celebrations. To reserve call: 01206 573500.1 Culver Street West, Colchester.
Little Scrummers Rugby Exciting tag rugby themed parties for 2-9yr olds with games, prizes and much more! 0330 088 1172 www.littlescrummers.com
Pirates & Princesses A 500 year old Aladdin’s cave on North Hill, Colchester, housing a wide range of traditional toys, gifts, partyware, sweetcones and balloons. 01206 764115 www.piratesandprincesses.co.uk
DRAMA PARTIES
Theatricool great value, unforgettable, themed birthday parties with your child as the star! Sally 07736 713909 or www.theatricool.co.uk
PARTY SUPPLIES
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CHILDCARE ALRESFORD
CLACTON-ON-SEA
Orchard Cottage Montessori Nursery Ltd
Chestnut Grove Kindergarten
120 Wivenhoe Road 01206 825607 Dr Natasha Mansfield o.c.m@btconnect.com
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Village Hall, Station Road 07517 430114 Jenny Scofield www.ardleighpreschool.co.uk
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sT Orchard Barns Private Kindergarten Badliss Hall 01206 231195 Susan Moss-Thomas
sT BOCKING A.G.N.E.S Day Nursery
Bocking United Reformed Church Church Street 07804 700557 Louise Blake www.agnesdaynursery.net agnesdaynursery@yahoo.co.uk
sT BOXTED Little Owls Preschool
Cage Lane Gill Dedhar 01206 273226 littleowlsboxted@live.co.uk www.littleowlsboxted.co.uk
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The School House 5 Pathfields Road 01255 429029 Denise Hawke office@chestnutgrovekindergarten.co.uk www.nurseryclacton.co.uk
sT*ylH Little Pals Children’s Centre Nursery Tendring Education Centre Jaywick Lane 01255 687151 Gillian Smith gill.littlepals@btconnect.com
sT*yH Pebbles Private Kindergarten Ltd 22 Thoroughgood Road 01255 433339 Carol Thornton-Jones
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St Mary’s Kindergarten 247 London Road 01206 216420 Emma Stanhope
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NAYLAND Woodland Corner Preschool
Nayland Primary School Bear Street Nayland Nr Colchester CO6 4HY 01206 263054 Cheryl Leeks www.woodlandcornernayland.blogspot.co.uk
Park Lane 01787 222205 Melanie Vine www.earlscolne.essex.sch.uk
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Strickmere CO7 6YG 01206 322466 Sarah Simmons abc.preschool@tesco.net www.abcpreschoolstratford.co.uk
FINGRINGHOE Roman River Preschool
Village Hall Chapel Road CO5 7BH 01206 729731 Michelle Dent michelle.dent@romanriverpreschool. co.uk www.romanriverpreschool.co.uk
COLCHESTER
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Colchester High School Nursery
GREAT HORKESLEY
STRATFORD ST MARY abc Preschool
sT Orchard Barns Kindergarten Higham Road 01206 323093 Shelley Ward
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Wellesley Road 01206 573389 Kate Cryne kate.cryne@colchesterhighschool. co.uk www.colchesterhighschool.co.uk
Holmwood House Nursery
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WHITE COLNE
Tiddlywinks Preschool
Pippins Montessori Kindergarten
Oxford House School
2-4 Lexden Road 01206 576686 Mrs Harding info@oxfordhouseschool.net www.oxfordhouseschool.net
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The Pavilion, King George V Playing Field,CO7 9AF 01206 827126 Natalie Fletcher munchkinswivenhoe@aol.co.uk www.munchkins-nursery.co.uk
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151 Coach Rd, Great Horkesley CO6 4DY 01206 273827 Katy Platten/Claire Angel
22A Coach Road Great Horkesley CO6 4AT 01206 272669 Helen Taylor
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The Brambles 22 Grove Road 01621 810772 Kirstin or Sally
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White’s Farm Bures Road 01787 228567 Lynne Dear
sT*
LAWFORD Busy Bees Kindergarten
Highfields School Colchester Road 01206 396291 Tina Lawrence/Maria Varnals busybeeskindergarten@gmail.com www.busybeeskindergarten.co.uk
sTy Key to Childcare Provider Icons use these symbols to discover the type of care offered by each setting
s DAY CARE T SESSIONAL CARE y AFTER SCHOOL CLUB h CHILDMINDER l BREAKFAST CLUB * HOLIDAY CLUB H CRECHE 38 • Summer 17 • North Essex • www.kidaround.biz
CHILDCARE BABY GYM Colchester School of Gymnastics Baby gym (Up to 2 yrs) Mon-Fri 9:3010:30am. Gym Fun (2-5 yrs) Mon-Fri 9:00-11:00am. Gym Jam music & action (up to 5 yrs ) Tues 10:4511:15am. Junior Gym (3½ yrs-5yr). Various times. Afternoon Fun Wed 1:30-2:30 free play, structure & music 01206 844188 PARENTING SUPPORT Colchester and District NCT If you need pre/post-natal support, from feeding advice to homebirth information, contact the national helpline on 0300 330 0700. For local activities call 0844 243 6093 or visit www.nct.org.uk/Colchester Parenting Support Workshops and parenting courses from Extra Support for Families for parents of under fives. Contact 01255 475001 extrasupportforfamilies@btconnect.com www.extrasupportforfamilies.co.uk PRESCHOOL CLASSES Tinycool Dance and Drama Fun classes for children aged 2-4 yrs. Mondays 2.10 – 3.10pm. Church Hall, Bear St, Nayland. 07736 713909 www.theatricool.co.uk Tinycool Dance and Drama Introduction to drama and movement for children aged 2-4 yrs. Wednesdays 10am -11.05am. Theatricool Studio, Colchester. www.theatricool.co.uk
Theatre Arts Academy Little performers love their drama class! Saturdays 9am-10am. From 3 1/2 yrs. Theatre Arts Academy Colchester Tel:07715 324267 www.theatreartsacademy.co.uk PRE/POST-NATAL EXERCISE Aqua Bump Works on gentle fitness and gentle toning. Wednesday 8pm8.40pm. Leisure World Colchester 01206 282000 READING Bookstart Sing some rhymes and look at books, and meet other babies and their grown-ups at your local library. www.essex.gov.uk/libraries RUGBY Little Scrummers Rugby Exciting tag rugby for 2-6 year olds. Essex & Cambridgeshire. Make friends and learn new skills! 0330 088 1172 www.littlescrummers.com
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