Families September October Half term and education issue

F R TAKE EE ME HOM E

Prep School Open Morning Tuesday, 5th October at 10.00 am

“Enter a magical indoor wood where each tree has a story to share…” www.storymuseum.org.uk

Issue 103 September/October 2021 familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families Oxfordshire 1

WHAT’S ON...

Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever Wed 20 & Thu 21 Oct 2021 Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler’s

Stick Man

Fri 22 to Sun 24 Oct 2021

Tickets from £10 Discounts available

01865 305305 www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Open: 8am – 6pm Age: 0-5 years

BAMPTON

HEYFORD

01993 850 333

01869 233 268

bampton@theoldstationnursery.co.uk

heyford@theoldstationnursery.co.uk

Bowling Green Close,

Camp Road, Upper Heyford,

Bampton, OX18 2NJ

Bicester, OX25 5BS

FARINGDON

01367 243 800

faringdon@theoldstationnursery.co.uk 7 Park Road, Faringdon,

SN7 7BP

OXFORD

OXFORDSHIRE

01865 777 167

osp@theoldstationnursery.co.uk Sanders Road, Oxford Science Park,

Oxford, OX4 4GD

Availability for all age groups | www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk

Contents & Competitions

Dear Reader, As we start another school year, I miss that familiar first walk back in September (as my boys are now too old to have me accompanying them!), and that nostalgic smell of damp grass that took me back to my childhood and my boys first days at school. For many of us, the return to school after a long Summer juggling work and childcare (after an already testing year of homeschooling) will come as a guilty relief. As the conkers ripen on the trees (one of the first hints of Autumn), thoughts of long Summer days turn to cosy nights in and comforting food.

Why not make the most of those end-of-Summer days with our selection of things to do in the regular ‘Enjoy th ‘What’s On’ guide on pages 8 &9. e little th

Wise w ords ing

facebook.com/familieseastoxfordshiremag

one day s in life for you will look ba realize th ck and ey were the big things’ Kurt Vo nnegut Jr

DON’T MISS A COPY! Receive Families Oxfordshire by post for just £9.30 for 6 issues (1 year) or £18 for 12 issues (2 years). Call or email editor@familiesOxfordshire.co.uk for a subscription form.

WIN

familiesonline.co.uk

What's in this issue?

4.

News & Views

6. BeSafe 7.

Baby News

8.

What’s On

11. School Spotlights 15. Dealing with Anxiety 16. Fun and Games with Maths 17. The Beginners Guide to Primary School 18. What’s On Clubs and Classes EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336, editor@familiesOxfordshire.co.uk

Two winners can win a Family Ticket (up to 4 people) for a fabulous day out at the Science Oxford Centre this Autumn!

Explore, discover and play in their Exploration Zone, pick up an activity sheet to follow their woodland nature trails, and take an aquatic adventure and make a splash with their new outdoor Water Lab! To enter, please visit our Facebook page @ familieseastoxfordshiremag and simply like and share our competition post.

Good luck.

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk SOCIAL MEDIA: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk SALES: Jean Stevens, jean@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk DESIGN: Caroline Thompson-Heap, info@cheekymonkeydesigns.net 22,000 copies of Families Oxfordshire available through schools, nurseries, hospitals, clubs and classes, selected shops and restaurants. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know.

Families Oxfordshire is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Oxfordshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Oxfordshire. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Oxfordshire its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

Families Oxfordshire 3

News & Views

Join Perform for confidence building fun this Autumn term

Perform weekly classes are packed with drama, dance and singing but have a special focus on developing confidence, communication, coordination and concentration. They don’t worry about whether children get their lines or moves right, instead, they use a mix of drama games and fun activities which boost self-esteem and allow every child to shine. Their magical end of term shows for friends and family are a wonderful celebration of everything the children have achieved.

The Perform curriculum focuses on fun, friendship and laughter alongside catchy songs and funky dances. Class material is specially designed by Perform, with apps, downloads and videos for the children to enjoy at home. Classes are available for ages 4-7 and 7-12 with a new creative theme each term and, this autumn, they’re taking their 4-7s to Outer Space while the 7-12s will be appearing in Bluebeard’s Bride.

To book a no-obligation FREE trial class at Oxford, Abingdon, Didcot, Wallingford, Goring or Henley-on-Thames visit www.perform.org.uk/try They’re offering Families readers a special £40 introductory discount on bookings made by 15th October – just quote OX151021. T: 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk

Celebrate Roald Dahl Story Day

Every September the life and works of one of the best children’s authors of all time is celebrated on his birthday, 13th September.

During his lifetime, Roald Dahl wrote 20 children’s books and published 48 books altogether. He created over 500 new words and character names and his books have sold more than 250 million copies worldwide.

Join fans from all over the world to celebrate favourite Roald Dahl characters, stories and moments. Get dressed up as your favourite Roald Dahl character at a Dahlicious Dress Up Day event being held at school, community groups and libraries, or host your own by downloading the Roald Dahl Story Day Party.

Visit the Roald Dahl Story Day hub for resources to decorate your home or classroom.

More info: www.roalddahl.com/roald-dahlstory-day

The Family Learning Festival which runs from 16th to 30th October is a national celebration to inspire a love of learning in family life.

Organisations across the UK, including schools, libraries, museums, children centres and galleries will be staging a range of FREE and low cost creative family learning activities.

Organisers of the festival, the lifelong learning charity Campaign for Learning, believes learning that takes place in the family and home should be valued as much as learning that takes place in school classrooms and formal education. The family is where we learn important life skills and positive attitudes to learning, which enable us to become confident, motivated lifelong learners.

To find a local event, visit www.familylearningfestival.com

FREE family fun with Heritage Open Days

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture, bringing together over two thousand local people and organisations and thousands of volunteers.

This year’s festival will run from 10th to 19th September and feature more than 1000 free events.

Every year in September, places across the country that are either not usually open to the public or would normally charge an entry fee, throw open their doors to celebrate their heritage, community and history. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences for free.

There will also be hundreds of FREE interactive activities for children, including dressing up, craft, woodland walks and railway rides.

Co-ordinated nationally by the National Trust with support from the People’s Postcode Lottery, the celebration brings together thousands of organisations and properties across England.

New events will be added to the festival directory every day.

Visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk

TANTALISE YOUR TODDLERS TASTE BUDS Having developed the first ever scratch-cooking range designed specifically for babies and toddlers, Piccolo are expanding their offering following popular demand and introducing seven new family favourites to their collection. This includes two flavoured and easy to prepare risottos and brand new stir-in sauce flavours and sizes to cater for different cooking occasions.

As with all Piccolo products, these are made using 100% organic produce, balanced ingredients and are low in salt and sugar.

Piccolo continues their mission to make nutritious food accessible for families everywhere, with the RRP of £1.50 for single serve cooking sauces to £2.75 for risotto meals.

These new products will be available in major retailers including Sainsburys, Coop & Ocado this month.

4 Families Oxfordshire

Visit the Family Learning Festival

Jeans for Genes Day

Jeans for Genes Day is a chance to raise money for children affected by a genetic disorder. From 13th to 19th September, get your nursery, school or workplace to wear their jeans and raise funds to support children with genetic disorders.

Around one in twenty five children are affected by a genetic disorder, with thirty thousand babies and children newly diagnosed in the UK each year. Jeans for Genes Day is an annual fundraising event for Genetic Disorders UK which is a charity that aims to provide support to the individuals and families affected by genetic disorders.

Jeans for Genes Day is an easy way to raise awareness around genetic disorders, educating children and adults alike. Plus, it’s an opportunity for everyone to donate to an important cause and support children who are suffering.

More info: www.jeansforgenes.org familiesonline.co.uk

News & Views

New post-Covid Money Badge for Beavers and Cubs

The Scouts have launched a new Money Skills Badge for Beavers and Cubs which will help build children’s confidence and understanding of money with creative, fun and hands-on activities.

Children start forming their spending and saving habits as early as age 7 and, unlike in other countries, money management skills are not part of the core curriculum in England’s primary schools.

Qualifying for the Money Skills Badge will involve children selecting from up to twenty fun, hands-on activities to complete their badge.

Part of the motivation behind the launch of the badge is the disruption to maths and numeracy learning caused by the pandemic. It’s hoped that the badge will help around two hundred thousand children ages 6 to 10 hone their financial literacy skills.

More info: www.scouts.org.uk/news

World’s Biggest Coffee Morning returns

The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning is Macmillan’s Cancer Support biggest fundraising event for people facing cancer and is dedicated to bringing people together over a cuppa to raise vital funds.

This year’s official event date is 24th September but Coffee Mornings can be held at any time.

Before Covid-19, many patients told Macmillan that being diagnosed with cancer and going through treatment was the scariest thing that they could imagine. These anxieties and concerns have only increased during the pandemic, meaning that Macmillan needs support from the British public more than ever to continue to provide the crucial support needed by people living with cancer.

More info: coffee.macmillan.org.uk

SUCCESS FOR CHLOE, 12, FROM WALLINGTON, IN FA AND NATIONWIDE BUILDING SOCIETY COIN FOR RESPECT

The Football Association [The FA] and Nationwide Building Society’s initiative was created to help promote mutual respect on and off the pitch, with the competition calling on children from across the country to help create the first ever Coin for Respect and Chloe, 12, from Wallington was crowned the winner.

The coin toss is a symbol of fair chance at the start of every game, but until now, no official coin has ever existed. Chloe’s winning design will help change that. The 12-year-old won following a shortlisting process by a star-studded panel of judges before the public voted on the final 11 designs.

Chloe’s coin design will now be brought to life and distributed to thousands of grassroots referees across the country ahead of the new season. Chloe will also join her fellow shortlist finalists on a tour of Wembley Stadium and has won some incredible England prizes, including tickets to a match of her choice.

The Coin for Respect campaign is supported by England’s football stars Jordan Nobbs, Nick Pope, Beth Mead and Tyrone Mings, plus legends David James and Karen Carney as well as professional referee Rebecca Welch.

Speaking about her winning design, Chloe said: “I am so happy to have won the ‘Coin for Respect’ competition. When I found out I was that overjoyed I burst into tears!

“My design reflects that everyone should be able to take part in football and be treated equally, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, or any other characteristics and I am really proud that this message has won.”

BookTrust Storytime has revealed this year’s prize shortlist

Celebrating the very best books for sharing with babies and children under five, the shortlisted titles will be central to a new national pilot that the UK’s largest children’s reading charity is running in partnership with libraries. Launching in the Autumn, the pilot is designed to support disadvantaged families engage with their local public library and develop an ongoing reading habit.

Selected by a panel of experts, the six titles in contention are:

• I Really, Really Need a Wee! by Karl Newson & Duncan Beedie - a hilarious toilet tale of determination.

• Lenny and Wilbur by Ken Wilson-Max – a bold and colourful celebration of friendship.

• Octopus Shocktopus! by Peter Bently & Steven Lenton - a brilliantly bonkers story about welcoming newcomers.

• Arlo The Lion Who Couldn’t Sleep a mindful bedtime book.

• No! Said Rabbit by Marjoke Henrichs – an empathic debut exploring tears and tantrums.

The prize, which promotes the life-changing benefits of sharing stories with young children and is run in association with the CILIP Youth Libraries Group and librarians, has this year been incorporated into the new national pilot, BookTrust Storytime.

• The Whales on the Bus by Katrina Charman & Nick Sharratt - a fantastically funny reimagined version of a well known nursery rhyme that everyone can sing along to. familiesonline.co.uk

by Catherine Rayner -

Families Oxfordshire 5

Families Feature

Introducing the latest Baby & Toddler Car Seat in One The award-winning Norwegian car seat brand BeSafe, is introducing its brand new iZi Turn B i-Size - a baby and toddler car seat in one, suitable from birth to 4 years old.

Dedicated to developing the safest possible car seats for children of all ages, BeSafe are excited to launch a new seat to the world. Like a true Scandinavian brand, BeSafe prides itself on its innovation and design, with a spirit of adventure at the heart of everything they do.

They enable families to travel at ease, with the knowledge their children are safely secured in the car.

The new iZi Turn B i-Size include: • 360 degree rotation, that makes the transfer in and out of the seat simple and easy for parents, reducing stress for everyone involved.

• BeSafe Baby Shell™ and Newborn Hugger™. The Baby Shell is a one-of-akind baby insert that provides an ideal sitting angle custom made for babies, the Baby Shell adds an extra layer of side impact protection to keep babies safe. The additional Newborn Hugger that is placed inside the Baby Shell has a combination of soft material on the sides of the baby and a cleverly placed wedge to keep newborns snug and supported and allows them to lie

even flatter by lifting their back instead of the bottom.

• The Dynamic Force Absorber. A state-ofthe-art, innovative headrest design created with a honeycomb placement of V-shaped materials, allowing for controlled bending in the inner area of the seat, whilst keeping a rigid outer frame. By bending like a trampoline, the seat allows for a perfectly controlled and very gentle cushioning of the

child. This gives them the most advanced protection in the event of a side impact collision. This brand new design advances the car seat industry away from the traditional polystyrene side impact support, which most car seats are still currently made from.

The new Dynamic Force Absorber is not

restricted to just one impact that polystyrene will only withhold, making our seats more durable with a longer lifespan.

• BeSafe Universal Level technology. A one of a kind installation method that provides an optimal seat angle in EVERY car - solving the issue of sloping back seats which are not ideal for a newborn who is unable to hold their head up.

• SIP+ Additional Side Impact Protection additional protection which can be added to the side of the seat. Created to combat side impact injuries providing even greater peace of mind to parents, as it is constructed to absorb energy and reduce the load on the child’s neck and head by up to an additional 20% in the event of a collision.

BeSafe are world renowned for their safety credentials. Their research and development team continually focuses on creating innovative products that will improve children’s safety on the roads. All their car seats undergo extreme tests to ensure the highest quality standards.

The iZi Turn B i-Size is available in 7 different colour ways.

For more information about BeSafe and to view the whole collection, visit www.BeSafe.com

Lasting memories with Mads & Moodle Take a moment to create a beautiful keepsake of your babies’ early years with Mads & Moodle - a step you’ll never forget. Mads & Moodle are a specialised life casting service, creating beautiful casts of your baby or child’s feet or hands and are now offering the first shoe cast service too.

Mads & Moodle based in Thame, Oxfordshire have been creating special keepsakes of precious moments in time for the last 7 years.

The life casting process is very simple starting with an appointment at the Mads & Moodle studio in Thame. The process is quick and uses

completely natural materials against your baby or child’s skin. If you are unable to make it to the studio or prefer something a little different you can now have a beautiful first shoe keepsake created. This service is all done via post directly to Mads & Moodle who will create an artwork that will be treasured for a lifetime.

A precious moment in time captured, framed and personalised for you. Whether you are a parent or maybe an aunt or Grandparent this is a truly wonderful gift that will last a lifetime. Mads & Moodle offer vouchers too. Madsandmodle.com, Jen@madsandmoodle.co.uk

Thame, Oxfordshire

BABY, CHILD & FAMILY LIFE CASTING - BEAUTIFUL BESPOKE KEEPSAKES

M A D S A N D M O O D L E . C O M

6 Families Oxfordshire

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Baby News

Introducing a NEW Swing Maxi -double pumping power reimagined! ★★★★★

New data show rise in hospital admissions for unvaccinated pregnant women Marian Knight, Professor of Maternal and Child Population Health at the Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford and chief investigator of the study, said: ‘It is extremely good news that so few vaccinated pregnant women have been admitted to hospital with COVID-19.

Delta variant poses a significantly greater However, it is very concerning that admissions risk than all previous strains. of pregnant women to hospital with COVID-19 COVID-19 poses significant risks to both are increasing and that pregnant women mother and baby. Pregnant women are appear to be more severely affected by the particularly vulnerable to becoming severely Delta variant of the disease. ill from COVID-19, and around one in ten ‘ I cannot pregnant women emphasise more admitted to hospital with strongly how I cannot emphasise more symptoms of COVID-19 strongly how important it is important it is for require intensive care.

One in five pregnant for pregnant women to get pregnant women to get vaccinated women admitted to vaccinated in order to protect in order to protect hospital with symptoms both them and their baby. both them and their of COVID-19 gives birth baby. Until they are prematurely. New data vaccinated, pregnant from the UK Obstetric women must continue to be extremely Surveillance System (UKOSS), published on attentive to social distancing measures medRxiv, show that COVID-19 vaccinations including mask wearing, 2m distancing and offer effective protection from these risks. meeting outdoors where possible.’

This new analysis reports information on all Nicola Vousden, Registrar in Public Health pregnant women admitted with symptoms of at the Nuffield Department of Population confirmed COVID-19 in pregnancy in the UK Health and the first author of the study said: from the beginning of the pandemic up to 11 ‘Worldwide more than 200,000 pregnant July 2021. women have now received a COVID vaccine, The data shows: with more than 50,000 in the UK. This study • 3371 pregnant women have been admitted shows that very few pregnant women are to hospital with symptomatic COVID-19. admitted to hospital with COVID-19 after they have received a vaccine. Other studies • The severity of women’s illness appears have shown that women who have received a to have become worse; 24% of women vaccine pass on antibodies to their babies, so admitted in the first wave had moderate or the benefits of vaccination to both pregnant severe disease, compared with 36% with women and their babies are clear.’ the Alpha variant and 45% with the Delta The Royal College of Obstetricians and variant.

Gynaecologists and the Royal College of • Vaccination data has been collected since Midwives recommend that unvaccinated 1 February 2021. Of 742 women admitted women who are pregnant or considering since that date, only four have received pregnancy get their vaccine as soon as a single dose of vaccine and none have possible, and book their second doses once received both doses. they are eligible.

The Chief Midwifery Officer for England will urge expectant mums to have their COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible.

This follows a worrying rise in unvaccinated women being admitted to hospital with severe COVID-19, and evidence that the

familiesonline.co.uk

World leading breastfeeding brand, Medela, has unveiled an exciting new redesign of its iconic Swing Maxi, offering mums double pumping power with a new sleek, quiet and compact design with USB charging.

Perfect for on the go, the easy to use, reimagined Swing Maxi is lighter, quieter and more discreet than before, whilst the USB charging capabilities not only make the pump even easier and faster to charge, but it also enables wire free usage wherever mum may be. When fully charged the battery life lasts up to 6 pumping sessions - great for regular pumping when out and about.

Adding to the discreet redesign, the new Swing Maxi is considerably quieter than its predecessor, coming in under 45DB on the highest setting – so ideal when pumping on the go or when mum is trying to catch up on a good box set!

Featuring the iconic oval shaped PersonalFit Flex™ breast shields that help to find the most comfortable position (whilst adapting to every mum’s unique shape), the Flex technology not only offers the very best support, but is also clinically proven to produce 11% more milk!

Flexibly fitting into mum’s busy lifestyle, the new Swing Maxi makes expressing easier and more efficient than ever before. The compact size and handy fabric loop enable the pump to be used hands free (accompanied by the brand’s best-selling Easy Expression Bustier), hooking to clothing, a changing bag or being discreetly tucked away when in use.

The brand’s extensive research continues to show in their product development, creating research-based products mums know they can trust and rely on. Double pumping has been proven to produce 18% more milk compared to single pumping in less time, so alongside the benefits of the new Swing Maxi, it is certainly a great option for any mums to include as part of their breastfeeding journey.

The New Swing Maxi truly is ideal for use at home, on the go or wherever mum may be!

New Swing Maxi RRP: £250 shop.medela.co.uk

Families Oxfordshire 7

W hat’s Onto places Things to do, be had go and fun to ages in for kids of all

Oxfordshire

Nature Tots

WHERE: Sutton Courtenay WHEN: 13th& 17th September and 11th and 15th October, 9.30 (and 12.30 on Fridays) Environmental Education Centre Join friendly Nature Tots staff and volunteers to explore the nature reserves and enjoy wildlife themed activities suitable for children aged 18 months to 4 years. £7.00 (90 minutes) www.bbowt.org.uk/events/

Baby Ashmoles Online

Heritage Open Days

WHERE: Oxfordshire WHEN: 10th – 19th September England’s largest festival of history and culture, gives you the chance to discover local, hidden gems. Churches, museums, railways, gardens: lots of venues open their doors to the public.

Free. Booking recommended. www.heritageopendays.org.uk

WHERE: Ashmolean Museum WHEN: 17th September: 10.30 – 11.00 Baby Ashmoles Online sessions include sing-along, play ideas, and a short object talk for the grownups and will be run as a Zoom call.

Under 1’s Free www.ashmolean.org/events

FAMILY DAY

WHERE: Science Oxford Centre WHEN: Saturdays from 11th September – 23rd October Explore, discover and play in their Exploration Zone, pick up an activity sheet and follow their woodland nature trails. Take an aquatic adventure and make a splash with their new outdoor Water Lab (take a change of dry clothes in case you get wet!)! Suitable for children 3 years + £6.00 per person (under 3’s free). Woodland access all day. scienceoxford.com/events/ 01865 810000

Illuminated Evenings

WHERE: Fairytale Farm, Chipping Norton WHEN: Weekends from 9th October, from 16.00 The park will be open all day as normal, but when daylight fades the entire Enchanted Walk will become a magical wonderland of fairy lights.

From £7.25 (Under 2’s Free) www.fairytalefarm.co.uk 01608 238014

Roald Dahl and the Imagination Seekers

WHERE: The Story Museum WHEN: 12th September, 11.00 & 14.30 An immersive and interactive performance, involving games and imaginative play, while exploring Roald Dahlʼs extraordinary stories.

Especially made for ages 6 and up. £10.00 per person.

Pre-booking essential www.storymuseum.org.uk 01865 790050 8 Families Oxfordshire

WHERE: The Story Museum WHEN: 9th October, 11.00 & 14.30 Celebrate Astrid Lindgren’s much-loved story hero, Pippi Longstocking, ‘the strongest girl in the world’. A special storytelling performance by Sofie Miller particularly designed for young audiences. Expect plenty of mischief and laughter! £8.00 per person Pre-booking essential www.storymuseum.org.uk 01865 790050

Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever!

Agatha Christie Day

WHERE: Wallingford Museum WHEN: 11th September Visit the Agatha Christie exhibition in the museum, have a go at a special Agatha Christie quiz and see other exhibits including the new model of Wallingford Castle.

Guided Agatha Christie walks also available (additional charge). Free www.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk

Meet Astrid Lindgren’s Pippi Longstocking

AUTUMN FESTIVAL

WHERE: Blenheim Palace WHEN: 24th – 26th September & 1st-3rd October A Traditional inspired Harvest Festivals in the Walled Garden, locally sourced food, ridiculously fun games for all ages, a fiendishly difficult adventure competition, and it seems somebody let the dragons out so take a risk and slip through the maze, but if they catch you don’t blame us. From £10 www.blenheimpalace.com

PYO Pumpkins

WHERE: Millets Farm Centre, Abingdon WHEN: From 25th September Open weekends and daily during half term. Have fun picking, wheeling and weighing your own pumpkin! www.milletsfarmcentre.com/ what-s-on

Autumn Fair

WHERE: Harcourt Arboretum WHEN: 9th October, 10.00 – 16.00 Get creative with family-friendly autumn crafts, take a stroll amongst the spectacular Acer leaves, enjoy some tasty food from one of their food stalls and try some local brewed beers and ciders. Suitable for all ages.

Adult £5.45 children under 16 free www.obga.ox.ac.uk

WHERE: The Oxford Playhouse WHEN: 20th& 21st October Prepare for the brand new Peppa Pig live show packed full of songs, games and laughter, it really is the best day ever for Peppa Pig fans! Suitable for ages 12 months+ From £10.00 www.oxfordplayhouse.com 01865 305305

Thame Food Festival

WHERE: The Thame Showground WHEN: 25th and 26th September Demonstrations on the Big Cookery Stage, artisan and street food, the Humble Country marquee, live music, FestivAles’ pop up pub, children’s activity area, circus skills tent, dog show and much more!

Adult from £10.00 (children under 16 free) thamefoodfestival.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Families What’s On Cotswold Wildlife Park

Stick Man Halloween at Blenheim Palace

WHERE: Blenheim Palace WHEN: 22nd – 31st October, 18.30 – 22.00 As Halloween approaches and the days shorten, a mysterious mist falls across the gardens. Wander from dusk into darkness between one ghostly space to another... if you dare! From £10.00 (Children under 2 free) www.blenheimpalace.com

WHERE: The Oxford Playhouse WHEN: 22nd – 24th October This award-winning production features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. Suitable for ages 3 years + From £10.00 www.oxfordplayhouse.com 01865 305305

‘Scarily Ever After’ Halloween Event

WHERE: Fairytale Farm, Chipping Norton WHEN: 23rd – 31st October Venture down the Enchanted Walk to solve spooky riddles, choose your free pumpkin and get carving in Jack’s Yard. Arrive in your best Halloween fancy dress for your chance to win a treat!

From £7.25 (Under 2’s Free) www.fairytalefarm.co.uk 01608 238014

Pumpkin Trail and Spooky Science Halloween at Waddesdon

WHERE: Waddesdon Manor WHEN: 23rd – 31st October, 10.00 – 17.00 Enjoy a fantastical immersive safari experience throughout October half-term as well as more traditional spooky treats to tickle your tastebuds £3.50 per trail (Entrance charges apply). Booking essential www.waddesdon.org.uk

Go Batty for Bats Halloween Trail

WHERE: Sutton Courtenay WHEN: 25th – 28th October, 10.00 – 14.00 Environmental Education Centre Spooky Halloween-themed trail through their nature reserve suitable for children ages 4-11. £3.00 per child, adults free www.bbowt.org.uk/events/

WHERE: Science Oxford Centre WHEN: 26th – 28th October, Take a stroll through the spooky woodland and celebrate Halloween with a pumpkin trail.

For the brave souls that make it back a treat awaits… Conjure the science of colour with chromatography-bats or try some spooky levitation and design a flying fright! scienceoxford.com/events 01865 810000

Dissect Owl Pellets

WHERE: Science Oxford Centre WHEN: 30th October Twit-twoo. Kick off your Halloween festivities by dissecting owl pellets and discover clues about what the owl has eaten....

The woodland is open too – grab a pumpkin trail map and see if you can spot the pumpkins hidden in the trees. scienceoxford.com/events 01865 810000

Pete Stays Home

WHERE: The North Wall Arts Centre WHEN: 30th October, 11.00 & 14.00 Featuring original songs, dance and interactive storytelling, this is the perfect early theatre experience for children and an opportunity for families to share their feelings about having to stay home during lockdown.

From £6.00 www.thenorthwall.com

Crocodiles of the World

WHERE: Brize Norton WHEN: September and October, 10.00 – 17.00 With under-water viewing, talks, animal encounters and feeds throughout the day there’s plenty to keep you occupied at the UK’s only Crocodile Zoo. From £7.95 www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk 01993 846353

Hallowsteam!

WHERE: Didcot Railway Centre WHEN: 27th - 31st October Take a steam train trip to a spooky Victorian station decorated with cobwebs, spiders and bats, see a rare coffin trolley and step into a “haunted” carriage. Other attractions will also be open.

From £8.80 www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk 01235 817200

Please note

all events are subject to change and cancellation in view of any future COVID-19 legislations. familiesonline.co.uk

WHERE: Burford WHEN: September and October: 10.00 – 18.00 Wonderful animals and seasonal events complemented by daily activities: penguin feeding, adventure playground, farmyard fun and single-gauge railway!

Child from £11.00; Under 3s FREE. Pre-Booking essential www.cotswoldwildlifepark. co.uk 01993 823006

Whizz Kidz

WHERE: Thame WHEN: September and October Why not head to Whizz Kidz for a fun hour or two, or more should you little one not yet be tired. Large indoor softplay / entertainment centre which has everything you could want.

Child prices from £4.25 (age dependent) www.whizzkidz-thame.co.uk

Tumblestone Hollow

WHERE: Stonor Park WHEN: September and October High level walkways, climbing nets, look-out decks and bridges, all connected by a quirky, gnarled central tower– perfect for the kids to burn off some energy.

From £4.50 www.stonor.com/tumblestonehollow/ Families Oxfordshire 9

OPEN MORNING

Saturday 25 September 10am-12pm

BOYS WILL BE...outdoors

at Moulsford Prep day and boarding school of 370 boys aged 4 – 13 years

OPEN DAYS FRIDAY 24 SEPTEMBER, 10AM - 12PM AND 1PM - 3PM SATURDAY 25 SEPTEMBER, 9AM - 12PM

To book a place, please email admissions@moulsford.com call 01491 651438 or visit our website

Please book at

Moulsford Prep School, Moulsford-on-Thames, Oxfordshire OX10 9HR

www.chandlingspst.org

W WW.MOULSFORD.COM

701100 - Moulsford School artwork - Families Thames Valley West magazine.indd 1

A Co-Educational Prep School from 2-11 years

02/08/2021 10:25

Building the

future

Abingdon School Open Day Saturday 2 October

Abingdon Prep Open Morning Saturday 25 September abingdon.org.uk Independent education for boys aged 4-18

Free and subsidised places available from age 11

Families Education Abingdon Prep

What makes Abingdon Prep so special?

We care – we build confidence, support and encourage our boys, and foster a love of learning that will ensure they get the most out of education for many years to come.

We provide an enormous range of opportunities and indulge creativity. Boys are asked to get involved, work hard and be kind. Our teachers know how to get the best from our pupils whether they are shy or sensitive, robust or confident – and they are usually a mixture of all four! There is no typical Abingdon Prep boy.

Equally important as our impressive academic record is the ‘Other Half’, with over 100 extra-

Chandlings School, Oxford

Chandlings is a leading co-educational prep school for children aged 2-11 set within 60 acres of beautiful grounds just five miles from Oxford.

We pride ourselves on exceptional academic achievement, genuine pastoral care and superb facilities. Our teachers are passionate about education and our children are curious, creative and independent.

We offer impressive sports facilities, a huge range of enrichment activities from archery to yoga as well as extensive rural surroundings including a low-ropes course in Bluebell Wood. Wellbeing is at the forefront of everything we do, along with developing positive mental health, and lies

curricular activities from Amazing Avatars to Ukulele Club - and there is plenty of fresh air and space to enjoy.

Take a look at our website to see all that the boys do, and come to our open morning on Saturday 25 September.

Further details: abingdon.org.uk/prep Open events: Abingdon Prep School Whole school open morning Saturday 25 September 10.00am Abingdon School Open Day Saturday 2 October 9am

within the fabric of the school community. We consistently gain outstanding academic results to highly selective senior schools. With us, your child will discover themselves, have space to grow and make memories to last forever. Please join us at our Open Morning to discover Chandlings and experience the opportunities enjoyed by our pupils. Please book at www.chandlingpst.org/ open-mornings Open events: Saturday 25th September 10.00 - 12.00 Early Years Friday 3rd December 09.30 - 10.30

The Dragon School - Discover the Dragon The Dragon is a happy, vibrant, relaxed community where boys and girls discover and develop their talents. Dedicated and inspiring teachers encourage a love of learning and treat each child as an individual. This year marks an exciting new chapter thanks to the arrival of a new Head, Emma Goldsmith. The nurturing PrePrep is in the heart of Summertown and provides the ideal foundations for future learning whilst ensuring that curiosity and creativity are fostered.

Reception children enjoy learning through play and Muddy Dragons (Forest School) is a real highlight. From Year 1 upwards, Music, Sport (including swimming), Art and French are taught

Moulsford Prep School

Moulsford is a thriving independent Prep School of 370 boys aged 4 - 13 years, set in idyllic grounds on the banks of the River Thames near Wallingford.

At Moulsford, the message is straightforward.

We want our boys to receive the broadest possible education, while remembering that they will learn best when happy and settled. Our down-to-earth, family-focussed approach embraces the fact that boys of this age should be having fun at the same time as learning. Boys progress to a wide variety of leading senior independent schools.

OPENING 2022: NEW state-of-the-art Pre-Prep building opening September 2022, including a coed Pre-School (age 3 – 4). familiesonline.co.uk

by specialists. Children move to the Prep at the end of Year 3 and this marks the widening of extra-curricular opportunities including the Dragon QUEST enrichment programme. Interested families are encouraged to book on to an Open Morning.

Please do contact admissions@dragonschool.org or call 01865 315405 Open Events: Friday, 17th September 2021 Pre-Prep - Open Morning Saturday, 18th September 2021 Prep - Open Morning Saturday, 2nd October 2021 Prep & Pre-Prep Virtual Open Morning

To arrange a visit, please call 01491 651438 or email admissions@moulsford.com Moulsford Prep School, Moulsford-on-Thames, Oxon OX10 9HR Open Events: Friday 24th September 2021, 10.00 – 12.00 and 1.00 – 3.00 Saturday 25th September 2021, 9.00 – 12.00 1:1 individual tours are available throughout school term-time

Families Oxfordshire 11

Exper & Tast ience er D Septem ays ber Open Mornin Sat 25 g Septem ber Admis sions Interv iew R egister 18 Octo by ber

Small friendly school | Family community | Fun and innovative learning Small classes | Excellent pastoral care | Catholic Christian ethos Register at www.ola.org.uk for all Open & Experience Days and Admissions Catholic independent day school for age 7–18s accepting children of all faiths and none Our Lady’s Abingdon | Radley Road | Abingdon-on-Thames | OX14 3PS | 01235 524658 | www.ola.org.uk

Radley for Life

Bursary support available at 11+, 13+ or Sixth Form for talented boys. Radley College is a top boys’ boarding school near Oxford.

To find out more about Funded Places please join us on 6th November 2021.

To book a place please call or email Admissions or visit our website.

admissions@radley.org.uk

01235 543174

radley.org.uk/funded-places

Families Education Manor Prep School

“To challenge, cherish and inspire” Situated in Abingdon, the Manor Preparatory School is an independent co-educational day school that welcomes children aged 2-11.

The school has a wonderfully happy, creative atmosphere where every individual is valued and nurtured to reach their potential. The Manor’s most recent ISI Inspection saw the school receive the highest possible rating of ‘Excellent’ in all areas.

Inspectors commented that “Pupils approach every day with an overwhelming passion to learn and develop.”

This is in part due to the exceptionally caring and invigorating tone of the school, where laughter is

Our Lady’s Abingdon What makes Our Lady’s Abingdon different?

We are a small school, big enough to offer a wide range of subjects and activities, but small enough to know, value and care for every child.

Our small class sizes allow children to receive individual attention and teachers ignite pupils with fun and innovative learning, ensuring that they are fully engaged in academic life and achieving excellent results.

All pupils are also encouraged to take part in a wide range of co-curricular, confidence-developing activities, including sport, drama, art, music and academic competitions.

Our outstanding system of highly praised

Radley

pastoral care is at the centre of everything we do.

We see each child as a unique person, with gifts and talents to be nurtured, developing key qualities such as integrity, compassion, cooperation and courage.

If you would like to find out more, please contact our Admissions team on 01235 544808/ admissions@ola.org.uk www.olab.org.uk/visit Whole School Open Events: Saturday 25 September, 10.00am-12.30pm Wednesday 24 November, 9.30-11.30am

Radley offers an environment for boys to grow in self-confidence, thrive academically, and make the most of an enormous range of opportunities. The door is open to any talented candidate, regardless of their means or their background and we hope that we will have many applicants who wish to join us in the pursuit of excellence. A Radley education is about independent thought and learning with enthusiasm. It is about cultural awareness and academic ambition. It is about learning to live with others and preparation for the world beyond its gates.

Radley’s Funded Places Open Day is on Saturday 6th November 2021. You will be invited to a talk by

Oxford High School

At Oxford High Prep School, we truly believe in the development of the whole child and consider social and emotional development and wellbeing to be equally as important as academic achievement.

Introducing our new Future Ready Programme, which all OHPS students are encouraged to participate in.

The Future Ready Programme is a celebration of childhood and can be personalised and tailored to individual interests and strengths. Children work through progressive levels and complete a series of age-appropriate tasks, working towards the achievement of badges. Tasks are wide-ranging, spanning academia, sustainability, life skills and personal development. The aim of this programme familiesonline.co.uk

an essential part of the school day.

Every child is encouraged to push themselves to new challenges and fulfil their potential, resulting in outstanding results academically, on the sports field, and in the creative and performing arts.

Open day – Saturday 9 October Please book via our website www.manorprep.org

the Warden, including a Q & A session, followed by an informal tour of the school.

To book a place, please either contact us: admissions@radley.org.uk or 01235 543 174 or complete the enquiry form on our website www. radley.org.uk/Funded-Places Open Events: Funded Places Open Day – 6th November 2021 General Visiting Day - 13th November 2021

is to build well-rounded young people with many different passions who have a broad knowledge base, strong work ethic, self-belief and confidence.

We want girls at Oxford High Prep to be truly #FutureReady. To find out more, visit us at one of our upcoming open events. Register now at oxford.high.gdst.net.

Open events: Prep School ‘All About Us’ Virtual Event Thursday, 23rd September 2021, 4-6 pm. Reception ‘All About Us’ Virtual Event Friday, 1st October 2021, 10-11 am. Prep School Open Morning Tuesday, 5th October 2021, 10-11:30 am Families Oxfordshire 13

Families Education

Family Days at the Science Oxford Centre

Our Science Oxford Centre is a unique science-themed experience for children and families – all you need to get started is a little curiosity! Experiment and make discoveries in our Exploration Zone and explore the trails in our 15 acres of woodland. Families are welcome to bring a picnic lunch or grab something to eat and drink at the Skogen café, serving locally-roasted coffee, home-made cakes and light lunches. Don’t forget to try their famous cinnamon buns!

We are open every Saturday for Family Days throughout the Autumn, with additional Halloween-themed Family Days during October half term. Tickets include two hours in the Exploration Zone and all day in the woodland and outdoor areas.

We also run regular Saturday Creative Computing and Science Clubs at the Centre. We’ll be visiting the new Museum of Oxford in half term too, with interactive performances of our ‘Science of Magic’ show for families. To book, see scienceoxford.com/events Science Oxford Centre, Quarry Road, Headington, Oxford OX3 8SB 01865 810 000

Family Days every Saturday at the Science Oxford Centre

Family Days Every Saturday Tickets include 2 hours in the Exploration Zone and access to woodland and ponds all day Half term events

Pumpkin trail and spooky science 26, 27 and 28 October

Dissect owl pellets 30 October Book ahead

scienceoxford.com

Science Oxford Centre, Quarry Road, Headington, Oxford OX3 8SB

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED Do you have a couple of spare days every other month, your own car, and want to earn some extra cash?

Autumn Sp ctacular

Families Magazine Oxfordshire is looking for trustworthy, reliable and self motivated people to join their team, delivering our magazine to locations around Oxford City, Wantage & Faringdon Abingdon & Didcot.

AT BRITAIN’S GREATEST PALACE BUY ONE DAY, GET 12 MONTHS FREE*

You’ll be distributing our magazine every other month for 1-3 days depending on the route.

GOOD RATES OF PAY!

blenheimpalace.com

Call Lisa on 07887 521978 or email editor@familiesox.co.uk to find out more.

14 Families Oxfordshire BP_AUTUMN21_87x130.indd 1

familiesonline.co.uk 25/08/2021 16:51

Families Education

Dealing with back to school anxiety A new school year can be an exciting time for children; equally, it can prompt feelings of anxiety. For most children, these worries are transient and fade quickly. For some, the anxiety may linger well into the school year, particularly during the current pandemic. So how can we support our children with this?

Most anxieties are rooted in fear of the unknown. A new school year brings change: classroom, teacher, routines, social and academic pressures and expectations. For those entering new phases, change can include new schools, new travel routes and new friends.

Establishing good practice and routines in advance of the new academic year will address some common worries, preventing them from becoming deep-rooted. Make preparations well in advance, make them feel exciting and involve your child. Discuss the school day and let them ask questions. Remind them of the great things about school – learning new things, making new friends and exciting new activities.

Reassure your child that they are not alone.

For children whose worries persist, this simple five step programme can help manage anxieties.

TAKE CARE OF THE BASICS. Ensure a good sleep routine, healthy snacks and regular exercise.

PROVIDE EMPATHY. Find uninterrupted opportunities to listen to your child’s worries, expectations and fears. Car journeys, bath time and walks are all ideal times to talk. Listen actively, withholding judgement and advice and validate their feelings.

PROBLEM SOLVE. Discuss coping strategies, ideally led by your child.

Showing confidence in their own problem solving abilities will nurture greater resilience.

HIGHLIGHT THE POSITIVES. Encourage your child to recognise fun elements and not fixate only on the negatives. Use questions like: ‘What was your favourite thing for lunch?’ ‘Did you ask any interesting

by Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

questions?’ and ‘What was the funniest thing that happened today?’

Whilst their worries shouldn’t be dismissed, it’s important that your child can recognise the positives in their day.

BE MINDFUL OF YOUR OWN EMOTIONS AND REACTIONS. Recognise that they can create learnt behaviour. By staying calm and seeming positive, the message to our children is that they don’t need to worry.

The golden ticket is communication. Making sure your child is comfortable and confident talking to you and knows that you are ready to listen, will help prevent anxiety spiralling out of control. If you feel that ‘back to school’ anxiety may be something more concerning, then speak to your child’s teacher for advice and support.

Mastering ‘Active Listening’

We all spend a great deal of time listening to our children, at least, that’s the impression we give. It’s true we might listen to the words but do we really hear what they are saying? ‘Active Listening’ is the single most important skill you can have in your parenting ‘toolkit’ - letting your child know that you are ‘with them,’ aware of what they are saying, accepting of their perspective and appreciative of their situation. As our children embark on a new academic year, this will help manage their fears and worries.

To practise Active Listening: • Give your full attention without interrupting;

Discover the Dragon An extraordinary Pre-Prep School in Oxford where boys and girls discover and develop their talents inside the classroom and beyond.

• Ask appropriate questions to make certain you are clear about what is being said; • Reflect or repeat back to show your understanding; • Keep comfortable eye contact; • Listen without judgement, being mindful of your facial expressions; • Avoid offering opinions and solutions; • Listen with empathy – showing you truly hear and understand;

Join us on the 17th September for our Pre-Prep open morning; the best opportunity to get a feel for the spirit of the Dragon For any other enquiries please contact the Admissions team on 01865 315 405 or admissions@dragonschool.org

Dragon School, Bardwell Road, Oxford, OX2 6SS

familiesonline.co.uk

dragonschool.org

• Open and honest communication can be one of the strongest factors in helping your children become resilient, responsible and caring people.

Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of EmParenting www.emparenting.co.uk, which works with schools and parents to strengthen children’s core qualities of emotional intelligence, kindness and compassion and offers insights, skills and tools to nurture their development and wellbeing.

Families Oxfordshire 15

Families Education

Fun and games with Maths

by Daisy Upton

There are a few different things that our kiddos will be learning when it comes to numeracy in their early school years and it really helps for parents to get up to speed with these and brush up on their own basics.

Firstly, what’s the terminology?

Maths Glossary A lot of maths terminology will be familiar but it’s useful to have a reminder. And, as always, some things HAVE changed.

Multiple: This is the ANSWER number to times tables. So the multiples of 5 are 5, 10, 15, 20 etc.

Numeracy: This is a word that refers to using maths in real life, such as working out change in a shop. It’s the term that lots of schools now use instead of simply ‘maths.’

Number sentence: This is the phrase that has replaced the general word ‘sum.’ A number sentence is simply a mathematical sentence such as ‘3 + 2 = 5.’

Number bonds: These are pairs of numbers that make a certain total number. For example, number bonds making 10 are 5&5, 1&9, 2&8, 3&7 and 4&6.

Tens and ones: In my day (I feel like a grandma when I say this!) we used to say ‘tens’ and ‘units.’ But now teachers tend to refer to ‘tens’ and ‘ones’, so 27 has 2 tens and 7 ones.

I believe in mixing up tricky maths learning with a big dollop of fun. Try this game.

BOND BOOGIE

Have you ever played one of those dance games where you have to step on the arrows in time with the screen and music? I’m so bad at them but cannot resist playing because I’m guaranteed laughter. I’ve tried to incorporate the fun of that game into number-bond learning here. Whack the music up . . . !

1. On twelve A5 sheets of paper, write the numbers for your number bonds.

2. Place the numbers randomly in a circle

around your kid.

3. Put on music that you can pause. When it plays, your child can boogie.

4. When you stop the music, shout a number.

They have to put one foot on the number you’ve shouted and the other on the matching bond to make ten. So if you shout, ‘Eight!’ then they have to jump on eight and two.

5. Once they’ve got the correct numbers, start again. Or they can just jump on the paired bonds while the music plays.

Five Minute Mum: Time for School

Five Minute Mum, Daisy Upton has recently published a new book, called Five Minute Mum: Time For School.

Daisy told Families: ‘I am hoping that my new book will act like a little bridge: a paperbound stepping stone between what happens in the classroom and what happens at home. I wrote it to help parents who are preparing their children to start school or have children in the first few years of education, so you can learn together as you go.’

The book is aimed at parents of children ages 4 to 8, and includes lots of fun games, including number games, that kids will enjoy playing. Daisy says: ‘Fun is always the desired outcome for my games, so it’s not crucial to play them daily. I hope that by playing them children’s confidence with numbers will increase. I use these games myself to get back into the swing of times tables, mental addition and subtraction, and all the other bits and bobs I regularly did my best to avoid at school.’

Next whole school

Open Day

Saturday 9 October To book your place, email admissions@manorprep.org

www.manorprep.org

As featured in

An outstanding independent day school for boys and girls aged 2-11 16 Families Oxfordshire

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Education

The Beginner’s guide to Primary School If you are parents who have a child that has just started school, introduction to school life may mean getting your heads around a range of school practitioners and processes, as well as new terminology and acronyms to understand and get used to.

Becoming familiar with some of these can help you navigate those first weeks more easily.

EYFS. The Early Years Foundation Stage includes Nursery and Reception classes.

The focus here is learning through high quality play.

When your child moves from Reception into Year 1, more formal teaching is introduced.

SEND. If your child has special educational needs or disabilities, your school should work with you to identify any areas your child will need support with. Many schools will employ specific methods to integrate a child with SEND into the classroom and school.

Welfare Officer. A staff member whose role is to support children attend school. Remember, you are liable for a fine of £60 (per parent) if you take your child out of school, unless due to illness or special permission from the school.

School Nurse. Each school will have a district school nurse who looks after their pupils and can provide support in areas like healthy eating and sleep. The nurse will also look after several schools.

Golden Time. This is time set aside for fun as a reward for good behaviour during the week. Often scheduled for a Friday, it’s a chance for children to unwind and enjoy activities that are not necessarily part of the formal curriculum.

Reading Record. A book in which your child’s teacher will ask you to record the reading your child does at home.

by Gabrielle Nash

At the start of term, it’s also handy to get your head around how your child’s school is going to approach certain important issues and talk about these with your child.

Behaviour. Younger children are introduced to a system of rewards to encourage, praise and ultimately reward good behaviour and effort.

Each school will have a different system, like ‘super star’ stickers to motivate hard work.

Covid-19. The pandemic will continue to impact schooling for some time. Contact your school office to discuss how their approach to containing an outbreak and their Covid-safe policies.

Food. All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 are entitled to ‘universal’ free school meals. If your child brings a packed lunch, you’ll be encouraged to provide healthy food choices.

Wrap-around care. School day hours do not necessarily align with work hours. Often schools offer a breakfast club and after-school care at an additional cost. Remember, spaces in these are often in demand.

What does an average school day look like?

Primary schools start between 8.30am and 9.00am, unless your child attends a breakfast club. During the pandemic, many schools have been staggering start times to reduce the numbers on site.

Lunchtimes may also be staggered, depending on your school’s Covid policies but will take place between 11.30am and 12.30pm.

Remember to inform your school if your child has any allergies.

Younger children tend to have a specific PE day. A good tip is to practise getting out of uniform into PE kit – and back!

In Reception, the end of the day is often preceded by Circle Time, a chance for a story or a game, but also an opportunity to encourage positive relationships through listening and speaking.

You’ll be asked to give details of who will be collecting your child.

Make sure to update the administration and teaching team if it changes.

The school day ends between 3.00pm and 3.30pm, depending on your child’s year group.

n W hat’sdoO this

Stagecoach Performing Arts

WHERE: Venues throughout Oxfordshire WHEN: Autumn Term starts 7th September Bring out the best in your child and encourage them to develop excellent communication skills, grow in self-esteem and enjoy the benefits of improved co-ordination.

Suitable for children from age 2.

From £15 for two-week trial www.stagecoach.co.uk 01483 247404

Things to , e - Drama im t r e m m Su ething port som s & ic s u m one in for every

re Oxfordshi

Rangers Online Wildlife Club

Saturday Story Makers

WHEN: 4th September and 2nd October - 11.00 -12.30 WHERE: The Story Museum Enjoy exclusive access to the amazing Magic Common Room and Whispering Wood exhibition spaces, whilst exploring a range of stories in a fun and lively session. Ages 8 – 12. £10.00 www.storymuseum.org.uk/ whats-on/ 01865 790050

WHEN: 21st September and 19th October, 18.00 – 19.00 If your child loves wild animals, likes to share or discover science facts and wants to learn how to help wildlife, this is for them! A fun, informative online nature club for 8-16 year olds. £3.00 www.bbowt.org.uk/events/

If booking any courses, please mention Families Oxfordshire Magazine.

Cogges Creatives Drama Club

Comic Club

WHEN: 25th September and 30th October, 11.00 –12.30 WHERE: The Story Museum Develop your comic making skills. Awesome comic artist Neill Cameron will be on hand to offer helpful advice and tips.

Ages 8 – 16. £10.00 www.storymuseum.org.uk/ whats-on 01865 790050

WHEN: From 27th September, 16.00 – 18.00 WHERE: Cogges Manor Farm Cogges Creatives is a FREE drama club offering 12-17 year olds weekly drama sessions for a whole year! Build performance skills, devise the script and rehearse the performance before performing at the end of the Summer term 2022. Free www.cogges.org.uk/coggesevents 01993 772602

18 Families Oxfordshire familiesonline.co.uk

Families Clubs & Classes Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA) of Performing Arts

Playhouse Youth Theatre

WHEN: Autumn Term starts 21st September, 17.00 – 19.00 WHERE: Oxford Playhouse OP’s Playhouse Youth Theatre allows 12 to 16 year olds to develop their passion for performance, learn brand new skills, and build friendships in a supportive setting. Sessions are delivered by their OP team, supported by visiting practitioners who will deliver workshops in skills used by professional actors and theatre makers. £50 per term www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Creative Computing Club

WHEN: 16th October , 10.00, 12.30 & 15.00 WHERE: Oxford Science Centre These fun sessions reflect real world scenarios as coders bring their own projects to life with the latest tech gadgets, experimenting with BBC micro:bits, speakers or lights and programming in a variety of languages such as Python, Scratch or MakeCode.

Beginners welcome!

Suitable for ages 9 – 12. From £8.00 scienceoxford. com/events

Saturday Science Club

WHEN: September and October WHERE: Bicester School PQA provides outstanding performing arts tuition for 4 – 18 year old’s. Each week students rotate through specialist sessions in Musical Theatre, Comedy & Drama and Film & TV taught by leading industry professionals.

Book a free taster session. www.pqacademy.com 0800 531 6282

PERFORM weekly drama, dance and singing classes

Gymnastics

WHERE: Various locations across Oxfordshire Jumping, bouncing, rolling, climbing – children are natural gymnasts. Encourage a healthy relationship with movement and confidence by signing your child up to a regular class with a specialist instructor. Use the British Gymnastics Organisation website to locate classes in your area. www.british-gymnastics. org/discover

WHEN: 25th September and 23rd October, 10.00, 12.30 & 15.00 WHERE: Oxford Science Centre Through entertaining demos and hands-on activities, children have a chance to learn, explore, question and investigate different areas of science. Each month has a different theme. Visit includes access to woodland, ponds, picnic areas and café.

Suitable for ages 5 - 9. From £8.00 scienceoxford.com/events

WHEN: September WHERE: Oxford: Wednesdays; Abingdon: Saturdays and Thursdays; Didcot: Fridays; Wallingford: Saturdays Confidence building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination.

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class. www.perform.org.uk 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk

Oxfordshire Taekwon-do & Little Pumas

Rugbytots

WHERE: Various locations across Oxfordshire Fun, structured play sessions take children on a journey of sporting imagination whilst teaching them how to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team. Suitable for ages 2 – 7.

From £7.75 per session www.rugbytots.co.uk

WHERE: Abingdon, Didcot, Grove A revolutionary method to encourage and motivate 4-7-yearolds as well as traditional methods for 7-14-year-olds. Get fit, learn self-defence and make friends.

FREE introductory lesson.

From £28/month www.oxfordshiretkd.co.uk 07831 950 850

The Oxford School of Ballet WHERE: Woodstock Road, Oxford Tuition in classical ballet for children from 3 years. Pre-school classes teach children the basics; children can then progress through the preprimary and beyond. www.oxfordballet.co.uk 01865 511097 familiesonline.co.uk

Families Oxfordshire 19