Families Oxfordshire September October 2018 edition

Header F R TAKE EE ME HOM E

IN THIS ISSUE

WIN a Family Ticket to the Pied Piper

One-to-One Home Tutoring

SATs, Common Entrance, GCSE, A-levels and I.B.

Call 01865 703 545

www.lotustutors.com

RECRUITING NOW Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside & without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle, please call Diana Page 01235 533362 / 07747 086518

MCS Families Oxford 130x60.qxp_MCS Families Oxford 130x60 17/08/2018 15:38 Page 1

OPEN DAYS Whole School

9.30am to 12 noon Saturday 15 September

Sixth Form

5.30 to 7.30pm Tuesday 25 September

Junior School

9.15 to 11.00am Thursday 11 October

Senior School

2.30 to 4.30pm Thursday 11 October

Visit mcsoxford.org/opendays to book

www.osbp.net info@osbp.net The bus service provided by leading Oxford schools

Issue 87 September/October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families Oxfordshire 1

Join us at our Open Morning Saturday 22 September 2018 9.30am - 12.00pm

HMC and IAPS Independent Day School for boys and girls aged 4-18. www.cokethorpe.org.uk

Contents & Competitions

Dear Reader,

Autumn marks the transition from summer into winter and the start of a new academic year as the children return to school and the after school clubs and classes begin. As routine sets in and children start school for the first time, older primary children start the search for a good secondary school. We have put together a few ideas for extracurricular activities as well as dates of school open days to help with whatever stage your little ones are at.

WISE WORDS: When you let go of pride, you let humility and compassion in. They will open up your world and allow you to see the richness of life.

Header FR EE

TAKE ME

HOME

IN THIS ISSUE

WIN a Family

Ticket to the Pied Pipe r

One-to-One

Home Tutoring

SATs, Common

Entrance, GCSE, A-levels and I.B.

Call 01865 703

545

www.lotustutors.c om

RECRUITING NOW

Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time & without compromising from home, alongside family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle, please call Diana Page 01235 533362 / 07747 086518

MCS Families

Oxford 130x60.qxp_M

CS Families Oxford

Whole School

9.15 to 11.00am

Sixth Form

5.30 to 7.30pm

2.30 to 4.30pm

Visit mcsoxford.or

www.osbp.net The bus service

Thursday 11 October

Senior School

Tuesday 25 September

ber/October 2018

.uk

Junior School

Saturday 15 September

Issue 87 Septem familiesonline.co

130x60 17/08/2018 15:38 Page 1

OPEN DAYS 9.30am to 12 noon

g/opendays to

Thursday 11 October

book

info@osbp.net

provided by leading

Oxford schools

familiesonline.c

o.uk

Families Oxfordshire

1

4 News and Views @familiesCambMag facebook.com/FamiliesUKCambridgeshire

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.

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.

WIN

A FAMILY TICKET TO SEE THE PIED PIPER AT CORNERSTONE THIS CHRISTMAS*

From the team that brought you The Nutcracker and the Mouse King!, this enchanting tale of playing to your own tune is vividly brought to life with new songs, performed live by actor musicians and supported by a talented young ensemble from the local community.

For your chance to win, look out for the corresponding post on our Oxfordshire Families Magazine Facebook page this September. *Excludes shows on 24 & 26 December.

familiesonline.co.uk

What’s in this issue?

7 Pregnancy & Baby News 8 ‘What’s on’ this Autumn 11 School Spotlight 16 School Open Days 17 Good Schools Guide & League Table 19 Extra Curricular Clubs & Classes 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.

EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336 editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk PUBLISHING ASSISTANT: Becky Lawrence admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk SOCIAL MEDIA & SALES: Jean@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk DESIGN: Caroline Thompson-Heap info@cheekymonkeydesigns.net

Families Oxfordshire 3

News & views

SPHERO MINI ROBOTIC BALL This latest little toy is set to be the next ‘Big thing’ for kids, Sphero Mini, is a tiny, app-enabled robotic ball, that can be controlled using the app, or with facial expressions through its new Face Drive™ feature. It’s about the size of a ping pong ball, so it can easily be used on the go. With the Sphero Mini, you can play a variety of different games use the ball as a controller to shoot your way through space, race a ship through a tunnel, or rotate your ball to destroy a polygon of bricks. Priced at just £49.99 it’s affordable and introduces children to basic code skills. My boys rated these 10 out of 10 and have loved playing together with the mini Sphero ball, which kept them amused for hours! www.Sphero.com, Amazon UK and Curry’s

Fam i

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LOV ies ES

New measures to crack down on child maintenance cheats

Minister Justin Tomlinson recently announced that new measures to tackle parents refusing to pay their correct child maintenance amounts will take effect. The announcement comes as part of the response to a consultation on how to give the Child Maintenance Service stronger compliance, collection and enforcement methods to make sure parents are properly supporting their children.

New powers will include: • Confiscating passports from non-paying parents - parents who repeatedly refuse to pay child maintenance may have their passports withdrawn.

• Deductions from joint bank and business accounts - previously child maintenance could be taken from personal bank accounts, but now powers will be extended to allow withdrawals from joint and business accounts.

• Improved maintenance calculations - taking into account assets where parents use complicated financial arrangements to evade their child maintenance responsibilities.

• Increasing the size of the Financial Investigation Unit – allowing the department to investigate more complex case

TWO THIRDS OF CHILDREN NOT SAFE IN CARS Parents are being advised to check their children’s car seats after a new study found that two in three children aren’t safe while travelling.

The What Car? study, created in conjunction with specialist organisation Child Seat Safety found that 59% of children are sitting in car seats that have been incorrectly fitted or are inappropriate for them.

The survey on 3,000 seats, with and without children in them, held at random seat-checking events throughout the UK, revealed that 36%

Fruit Juice with Breakfast Increases Risk of Obesity Children who drink fruit juice with breakfast are more likely to become overweight or obese.

A study, led by the Medical University of Vienna, revealed that children who had orange or apple juice with their breakfast were 50% more likely to be overweight, while those who drank water saw their obesity risk fall by 40%.

It also found that skipping breakfast is linked to weight gain as it makes children more likely to snack during the day.

The study, published at the European Congress on Obesity in Vienna, questioned 652 children aged 13 on their breakfast habits and, while most types of food had no clear relationship with weight, those who drank fruit juice more than three times a week were 50 per cent more likely to be overweight or obese.

More info at https://eco2018.easo.org/ 4 Families Oxfordshire

were incorrectly fitted in the car, while 33% of those that had children in them weren’t suitable.

Many of the mistakes were said to be “simple and easy to avoid,” and included tightening seat belts, incorrect head restraints or harnesses being in the wrong position.

In the UK, children are legally required to remain in a car seat until they are either 12 years old or at least 135 cm tall, whichever comes first.

More info at www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-therules

HOME FROM HOME WITH CHILLY POWDER

Do you prefer winter or summer in the Alps… or both?

Francesca, Paul and their three children live in Morzine in France all year round and have a good knowledge of Alpine traditions and the Morzine people. Having adapted their chalet holiday style over the years to suit the tastes of their regular guests, they offer the perfect ski and summer holidays for families, couples or mixed groups in relaxing luxury, with fantastic food and outstanding facilities; with unrivalled in-house childcare facilities. For many returning guests, Chilly Powder is considered a real home from home. For more information about Chilly Powder chalets visit www.chillypowder.com

Boosting Children’s Self-esteem and Life Skills with Perform A common struggle shared by many children is lack of confidence. This can stop some children reaching their full potential.

Perform Drama, is a unique drama school that uses drama, dance and singing to help all children achieve their true potential – even those that are shy and reserved.

“Perform is NOT a stage school” stresses Perform Producer, Karen. “It teaches life skills through fun drama games and end of term shows. The real aim of the classes is to help children develop the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Coordination and Communication.

“Classes are small with both a Producer

and a Teacher. Children are offered a free trial and the Producer spends time beforehand with each parent establishing their goals. For instance, speaking more clearly or making eye contact when introduced to someone unfamiliar.”

Producers report back to parents after each class on the focus of the week and answer questions about the progress of individual children.

“Shy children often come to classes clinging to their parents.

I can pretty much guarantee that within 5 or 6 classes, they will run in without waving goodbye” reports Karen.

For more information on your local classes in Cambridge, visit www.perform.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

News & views

ONLY HALF OF PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN BEING READ TO DAILY

The number of toddlers being read to daily has dropped by 20% since 2013, according to recent research.

The annual Understanding the Children’s Book Consumer survey from Nielsen Book Research found that while 69% of pre-school children were read to daily in 2013, that figure has now dropped to just 51%.

The study found parents complained of obstacles preventing them from reading to their children. Nearly a fifth said it was hard to find the energy at the end of the day, whilst 16% said their child would rather do other things. One in five parents don’t feel comfortable in bookshops, and nearly half are overwhelmed by the choice of children’s books.

The publisher Egmont, which co-funded the research, said the decline correlated with an increase of almost a fifth in the proportion of toddlers watching online video content daily, and warned that the “steep decline” in reading to young children “signalled a significant threat to child development, with potential long-term social impact.”

More info at www.egmont.co.uk

STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS ATTEMPT NEW GUINNESS WORLD RECORD

Stagecoach Performing Arts Faringdon participated in an attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous performance of one show.

Celebrating the 30-year anniversary of Stagecoach, students from Stagecoach Faringdon joined up with schools nationwide and abroad to stage Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Junior.

Performing simultaneously at 6pm BST on 1st July 2018, 200 Stagecoach Performing Arts schools took part. Upwards of 12,500 children were involved, across 144 venues around the world.

Stagecoach will secure an official Guinness World Record when independent adjudication verify the attempt. Once confirmed, Stagecoach will have broken its own record, which currently stands from 2008, when Stagecoach organised the largest simultaneous performance of one show for its 20th anniversary.

The stunning performance was attended by actor and musician, Gary Kemp, who was one of the independent adjudicators. Kemp said, “It was wonderful to see a show that included such a wide group of performers.”

Two of Stagecoach’s former students, Emma Watson and Nathan Mack, have played the protagonist Belle and Chip the teacup, respectively, in the film Beauty and the Beast last year.

Stagecoach Performing Arts Faringdon is part of a network of more than 750 extra-curricular Performing Arts Schools worldwide.

For more information visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/faringdon or call 01367 240663

CURIOSITY IS KEY TO EARLY CHILDHOOD SUCCESS New research links curiosity levels in young children with later academic success.

Researchers from the University of Michigan assessed the reading and maths ability of 6,200 kindergarten children and found that the children of parents who reported their child’s behaviour as highly curious did the best at school, regardless of socioeconomic status.

The results were consistent for both boys and girls.

The children’s reading and maths scores were consistently better the more curious they were. That was true even when the students

THE WILLOW ON THE FARM NURSERY SCHOOL IS GETTING READY FOR A NEW YEAR!

Near Hook Norton, Oxfordshire this can only be described as a truly magical learning adventure for 21/2 - 4 year olds! Set on an idyllic farm, with superb classroom facilities, this wonderful nursery school is all about returning to the simpler things in life.

The Willow On The Farm Nursery School is owned by Alice Clark who has run sister school, The Willow Nursery in London for over 30 years.

She believes passionately in reconnecting children with the outdoors and encouraging the children to learn through play, through real experiences and most importantly through access to the natural world.

The children are taught by experienced teachers using Montessori and traditional methods, following EYFS 7 areas of learning. Wherever possible topics and activities are transported outdoors and throughout the week our Forest School-trained leader will guide the children through fabulous learning sessions at our own Forest School – they explore the environment, learn to take risks safely, solve problems, and develop their imagination. They are regularly exposed to the animals on the farm and they go on tractor and trailer adventures every Tuesday!

Building independent, resilient and happy children lies at the heart of this school. familiesonline.co.uk

weren’t very good at a self-control measure called “effortful control,” which tracks how attentive and persistent students are when completing tasks.

“Even if a child manifests low effortful control, higher curiosity may be associated with more optimal academic achievement,” the authors of the study wrote.

The study, published in the journal Pediatric Research said that cultivating curiosity in children, especially in those from deprived backgrounds may be a valuable way of fostering academic achievement.

More info at www.nature.com

The Willow On The Farm The Willow On The Farm • Indoor Learning • Highly Qualified Teachers • Nill Farm, Hook Norton, Banbury, Oxon OX15 5DQ • Forest School • Tractor & Trailer Adventures • 01608 730143 alice@willowonthefarm.co.uk • Farmyard Animals • www.willowonthefarm.co.uk For 2 / - 4 year olds.

Term time only.

Morning, afternoon or full day sessions available.

1

2

Nill Farm, Hook Norton, Banbury, Oxon OX15 5DQ 01608 730143 • alice@willowonthefarm.co.uk www.willowonthefarm.co.uk Highly Qualified Teachers • Farmyard Animals

Families Oxfordshire 5

Forest School • Tractor & Trailer Adventures

Catholic independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2 to 13

Open Morning

Saturday 29 September 2018 10.00am – 12.30pm

OPEN

DAYS

Friday Saturd 21st & ay Septem 22nd ber

Getting the Best out of Boys To attend an Open Day please contact Goring Heath, South Oxfordshire, RG8 7SF tel: 0118 984 4511 email: office@oratoryprep.co.uk website: www.oratoryprep.co.uk

pa.registrar@moulsford.com • 01491 651438 Moulsford Preparatory School, Moulsford-on-Thames, Oxon, OX10 9HR Independent day and boarding school for boys aged 4-13 www.moulsford.com

Ask abo our trans ut fe process r to Abingdo n School

Exceptional – pupils’ achievement both inside and outside the classroom.”

ISI Inspection

Abingdon Prep Open Morning Saturday 6 October 10am-12pm

abingdon.org.uk/prep

Baby News

SnuzPod We love this SnüzPod Bedside Crib which has been expertly designed to make the UK’s favourite bedside crib even better.

Boasting a stunning new look and brand-new features, the all-new SnüzPod includes a reflux incline, wider and lighter lift-off bassinet for use around the home and dual-view breathable mesh sides, making it the perfect sleep solution from newborn to six months.

RRP: £199.95 | Stockist: www.snuz.co.uk

ilies Fam S VE LO

BABIES PREFER HEARING VOICES OF OTHER BABIES

Recent research has revealed that babies appear to be much more interested in listening to other babies than they are listening to adults.

Researchers from McGill University and the University of Montreal conducted experiments on five month old babies. By using a synthesizer that simulates movements of the mouth, tongue, and vocal cords, they were able to produce vowel sounds that mimicked human voices. The babies displayed a clear preference for the synthetic baby voices, listening to them for 40% longer, on average, than the adult voices.

“This doesn’t mean mum or dad should give up ‘oohing’ and ‘aahing’ in high voices“ says Linda Polka, a professor at McGill University. “Babies do respond to these kinds of sounds. However, infant speech captures and holds infant attention, sometimes prompting positive emotions. This may motivate infants to be vocally active and make it easier to evaluate their own vocalisations, perhaps energising and supporting spoken language development.”

More info at www.sciencedaily.com

MORE SLEEP FOR MUM AND DAD! The unique SnüzPouch, which is now available in two sizes 0-6 months and 6-18 months, features the brand’s nappy change zip.

The super handy extra opening makes night changes quick and easy, with minimum disturbance for baby, which means more sleep for mum and dad!

RRP: From £36.95 Stockist: Mothercare

Monkey Music Oxford E: oxford@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01235 519806

familiesonline.co.uk

BE PREPARED FOR THE BABY BOOM THIS SLEEPTEMBER! With September now officially the busiest birthing month of the year, the Sleep Council is offering some tips for new parents as part of its Sleeptember campaign.

According to the Office of National Statistics*, over the past decade eight of the top 10 birthdays fall in September, with September 26 the most popular birthday of the year (39 weeks and two days after Christmas Day!).

Lisa Artis of The Sleep Council said: “Our Sleeptember campaign this year is focusing on children’s sleep but the arrival of a new baby can be tough on parents’ own sleep routines. And it can be particularly difficult for mums who breastfeed as it’s a role their partners can’t share.

“So while broken nights are almost inevitable, there are things you can do to help you cope, as well as setting early routines to teach newborns the difference between day and night.

“The most important thought to hang on to is that by the age of three months, many babies can sleep at least five hours at a time. By six months, night time stretches of nine to 12 hours are possible!”

Here are some tips on surviving those first few weeks: • Sleep when your baby sleeps. Turn off the phone and turn a blind eye to chores.

• Try to keep baby alert and active in the daytime and create a calmer atmosphere in the evening.

• Share the night time wake-up calls.

• Don’t be tempted to keep baby in bed with you.

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

• Learn to accept help. If people offer help, take it!

• Prepare for sleep. If you have trouble falling asleep, get rid of ‘electronic distractions’ and keep your bedroom cool and dark. www.ons.gov.uk Families Oxfordshire 7

n W hsatotd’so, pO laces to

COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK WHEN: September & October

Thing be had go and fun to ages in for kids of all

WHERE: Burford

Get eye-to-eye with Giraffe, watch Penguins being fed, explore the adventure playground, take a ride on Bella the Train. And so much more to explore!

Adult £16, Child (3-16 years) £10 and 0-2 FREE www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

O x f or d s h ir e

Bill Spectre’s Ghost Trails WHEN: September - October:

Mischief and Mystery in Moomin Valley

WHERE: Oxford Castle

WHERE: Cornerstone, Didcot

18.30

Friday and Saturday tour of Oxford’s ghosts with props and illusions. Pre-book.

Adult £9, £7 (13-15), £5 (5-12) www.oxfordcastleunlocked. co.uk

Hands on Table WHEN: 15

September:14.00-15.30 WHERE: Pitt Rivers Museum Listen to Indian Tablas and have a go yourself. Free, drop-in session suitable for adults and families. www.prm.ox.ac.uk

Cabinet of Curiosities WHEN: 22 September:

14.00-16.00 WHERE: Museum of the History of Science Discover unusual objects and assemble your own cabinet of curiosities. Drop-in for children aged 5-13. www.museums.ox.ac.uk

HOW TO HIDE A LION WHEN: 22 & 23

September WHERE:

Oxford Playhouse When a lion is chased out of town, a young girl helps him find somewhere to hide. It’s not easy – lions are too big, too fluffy and too heavy! 3-6 years. £8 www.oxfordplayhouse.com 8 Families Cambridgeshire

WHEN: 23 September

Open a book and discover a world where anything is possible.

Be sure to pack your imagination and join us on an unforgettable journey to Moomin Valley.

From £6 Child www.cornerstone-arts.org

Tree Climbing WHEN: 23 Sept &

21 October WHERE: Greys Court, Henley-onThames Learn how to enter a tree’s canopy using ropes, knots and karabiners, whilst being securely attached in a harness.

Pre-book. £20 www.bigtreeclimbing.co.uk

Paddington 2

Thame Food Festival

doors open WHERE: The Old Prison Exercise Yard, Oxford Cult Screens offer a range of ticket choices, from bring your own to a choice of comfy seating options including deckchairs, single bean bags and double bean bags to cuddle up on.

Fantastic food and drink too.

From £21.40 www.wegottickets.com/ cultscreens

WHERE: The Thame Showground

WHEN: 29 September: 18.30

Two days of deliciousness!

Demonstrations from celebrity chefs. Dog show. Lots of stalls (bring cash). FREE Shuttle Bus from Thame town centre and back. With children’s activity area.

Adult £5 www.thamefoodfestival.co.uk

Henley Children’s Literary Festival WHEN: 29 September - 7 October WHERE: Henley

For children of all ages with guests including Anthony Horowitz, former Children’s Laureate Sir Michael Morpurgo and the international bestselling author-illustrator David Melling.

Some free events; pre-book. www.henleyliteraryfestival.co.uk 01491 575 948

Star Seekers

Wild Woods Day

WHEN: 29 September

10.00 – 16.00 WHERE: Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre A wonderful woodland spectacular with a host of local wildlife groups offering games, crafts, activities and live animals.

Drop-in. www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Centre, Oxford Help the Star Seekers save Oxford’s space station; collect every orb and delve into the great unanswered question of the universe: what do astronauts really have for tea? Ages 3-8.

Adult £8; Child £6 www.thenorthwall.com

WHEN: 29 September:

WHEN: 29 - 30 September

WHERE: The North Wall Arts

PYO Pumpkins

WHEN: October Weekends

WHERE: Millets Farm Centre, Abingdon

Have fun picking, wheeling and weighing your own pumpkin! www.milletsfarmcentre.com/what-s-on

Fre

e!

Fre

e!

Oxford Fun Palace

WHEN: 6 October: 11.00 – 15.00 WHERE: Oxford Playhouse Make your own rocket, complete a treasure hunt and much more, including workshops and performances. Drop-in recommended for 5+.

FREE www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Oxford City Farm Festival

WHEN: 6 October: 11.00-16.00

With music, farm animals, children’s games, lots of yummy food, apple pressing and stalls and much more!

FREE www.oxfordcityfarm.org.uk

Harry Hill’s KIDZ Show WHEN: 21 October: 11.00

WHERE: New Theatre, Oxford

How to Be Funny - For KIDS! will offer hints, tips and anecdotes for children who fancy themselves as a bit of a joker.

From £17.50 atgtickets.com familiesonline.co.uk

Families What’s on HEY DIDDLE DIDDLE WHEN: 7 October

WHERE: Cornerstone, Didcot

With original songs played live on stage, brilliant puppetry and lots of laughter, this new show is a wild and musical celebration about the importance of imagination.

From £6 Child www.cornerstone-arts.org

SPOOKY HALLOWEEN TRAINS WHEN: 27 & 28 October

WHERE: Cholsey & Wallingford Railway

Gifts for children aged 1-7 distributed by the ‘Witch of Wallingford’.

The Witch’s grotto will be in the brake coach.

Are you brave enough to ride?!

Adult £10; Child £7; under 5s FREE

www.cholsey-wallingford-railway.com

Halloween Family Event

Spooks and Ghouls

THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA

WHERE: Fairytale Farm, Chipping

WHEN: 25, 27 & 28

October

WHERE: Chinnor

WHEN: 24-27 October

Princes Risborough Railway, Chinnor There may be hitch-hiking Ghosts, perhaps a haunted station and maybe even ghastly ghouls board dare you ‘dress for the occasion’ and come along for a ride?

Adult £10; Child £1 www.chinnorrailway.co.uk

WHERE: Oxford Playhouse

Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! 3+. £14 / £10 www.oxfordplayhouse.com

WHEN: 20 – 28 October

Norton Games and activities for younger children; pumpkin-carving, spooky biscuit decorating and more. Also after-dark event 27th October in illuminated gardens! www.fairytalefarm.co.uk

Oxford Open Doors WHEN: 8 & 9 September

WHERE: Annual Festival of

Oxford, a weekend to celebrate city places, spaces and people which coincides with Heritage Open Days across region. www.oxfordpreservation.org. uk/content/oxford-open-doors

BUTTERFLIES WHEN: 26 October

WHERE: The North Wall Arts

Centre, Oxford Join our intrepid characters as they step into the unknown in an uplifting tale of friendship, courage and facing your fears.

Ages 3-8. Adult £8; Child £6 www.thenorthwall.com

There was an Old Lady who Swallowed a Fly WHEN: 23 October WHERE: Cornerstone, Didcot

Go and relive the delights of this most charming of tales complete with a feast of sing-along songs, colourful animal characters and heart-warming family fun.

From £7.50 Child www.cornerstone-arts.org

Baking with Mrs Bun WHEN: 26 October

8 MINUTES

WHEN: 13 October: 15.00 & 19.30 WHERE: Oxford Playhouse

In collaboration with scientists from STFC RAL Space, choreographer Alexander Whitley takes inspiration from solar research with dance, film and music. 8+ £20.00/£15.00/£12.00/£10.00 www.oxfordplayhouse.com

WHERE: Millets Farm Centre,

Abingdon With a Halloween theme 10am-12 noon: 2-5 years plus & 1pm-3pm: all ages (plus accompanying adult). Make cheesy biscuits, ghoulish dip and witches’ brownies. £22 www.milletsfarmcentre.com/ what-s-on

FAMILY OPEN AFTERNOON

WHEN: 24 October: 14.00-16.00 WHERE: Soldiers of Oxfordshire

Museum Pop along to enjoy this family-friendly museum, make something and then take it home. £2 per child www.sofo.org.uk/whats-on familiesonline.co.uk

Please mention Families Oxfordshire when booking Families Cambridgeshire 9

TMPS Families Oxfordshire Magazine 87x130 - MP-2252.qxp_Layout 1 16/0

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

OPEN MORNING

Saturday 22 September 2018 10.00am-12.00pm To challenge and to cherish

Open Morning

Saturday 6 October, 10.00am-12.30pm Top grade of ‘excellent’ in all areas ISI Report 2017

“Pupils approach every day with an overwhelming passion to learn and develop.” ISI Report 2017

The Manor Prep School, Faringdon Road, Abingdon, OX13 6LN 01235 858462 admissions@manorprep.org Extensive daily bus service including: Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Fully flexible wraparound care from 7.30am to 6.00pm

www.manorprep.org

An ‘Exceptional’ education from £3,000 per term Oxford’s leading day school for girls aged 4 to 18 www.ohsvisit.org.uk

Where learning happens everywhere A Co-Educational Prep School from 2-11 years • 60 acres of beautiful grounds • 5 miles from oxford • Excellent sports facilities • Excellent academic results • 60+ extra-curricular activities

For more details visit: www.chandlings.org.uk

Families Education

Chandlings Prep School How would your children like to ride a pony to start the day? Or go pond dipping to see nature close-up, practice in the ballet studio, or learn about where food comes from, in the vegetable garden?

At Chandlings Prep School, this is how we teach.

Indoors or outside in our beautiful 60-acre grounds, children can swim, play rugby, tennis, hockey or cricket, and enjoy fencing, archery or even a round of golf. They can learn team-building on the rope course in the bluebell wood, or watch birds from the eco hide. They can cook in the food tech room, practice in the music suite, or act in the

mini-amphitheatre.

Whatever they do, children are happy here - and it shows in our results, with over 80% of our leavers getting into their first choice of highly acclaimed secondary schools and 50% gaining scholarships.

We’ve been called by some ‘a hidden gem’.

Please, come and see why. www.chandlings.org.uk 01865 730771 registrar@chandlings.org.uk

Oxford High School New for this year, Oxford High School has been

High plus d’Overbroeck’s, Headington, Magdalen

working with its neighbouring schools to introduce

College School, Rye St Antony.

a school bus service to overcome those lengthy

Contact Us:

journeys in and out of Oxford for school pupils.

From September 2017, OHS pupils from Bourtonon-the-Water, Abingdon, Buckland, Bicester, Brackley, Haddenham and down to Goring, Henley and Reading will have a bus network that will transport them to and from the school door.

Oxford High School, Belbroughton Road, Oxford OX2 6XA

Tel: (+44) 01865 559888

E: oxfordhigh@oxf.gdst.net

Contact info@osbp.net for information or visit www.osbp.net. OSBP stands for the Oxfordshire Schools’ Bus Partnership and comprises Oxford

Moulsford Boys’ Prep School Moulsford offers boys superb opportunities for learning whilst having fun. A restructured curriculum was successfully introduced in September 2017, which moves away from the traditional Common Entrance preparation. The focus is not only to prepare boys for senior schools, but also to ensure they have the skills for life beyond. Exploration and enquiry is strongly encouraged and Moulsford life aims to develop boys’ resilience.

Through our Activities programme, we aim to offer opportunities to develop new skills and talents, whilst becoming a conscientious citizen.

Our programme gives boys the chance to try bike maintenance, bushcraft, pantomime, parkour, geocaching, and many more. The most popular activities are kayaking, climbing, archery, cooking and ceramics.

Our core values of respect, compassion and independence are at the heart of all that we do.

Expectations are high, in terms of manners and discipline, and the boys respond accordingly.

There is a strong rapport between staff and boys, and a sense of mutual respect.

The Manor Preparatory School To Challenge and to Cherish Founded in 1907 and situated in Abingdon, close to Oxford and within reach of London, The Manor Preparatory School is a thriving independent coeducational day school with nearly 400 pupils.

Every area of school life received the highest possible rating of ‘excellent’ in a recent ISI Inspection. That confirms the exceptional development of every pupil as the school becomes a fully co-ed school. Inspectors commented that “Pupils’ personal development is strengthened by all staff who set excellent examples as role models to pupils.” familiesonline.co.uk

The exceptionally caring and invigorating tone of the school ensures that children really do beam with happiness: they are delightfully self-confident and articulate.

The Manor has begun a comprehensive building programme with a new sports hall opening in September.

For further information please visit our website www.manorprep.org or contact Mrs Karen Copson, Director of Admissions and Communications on 01235 858462 or admissions@ manorprep.org Families Oxfordshire 11

Independent Catholic Day and Boarding School for Boys aged 11 to 18

An All-Round Education in a Nurturing Environment

Open Morning

Saturday 24 November 2018 9.30am - 12.30pm Email registrar@oratory.co.uk or call 01491 683522

ces for Funded Pla

Discover more at oratory.co.uk

S

Y O B D E T N E TAL

We have Funded Places that can be worth up to 100% of the fees at 13+. Radley is a top boys’ boarding school near Oxford.

To find out more about Funded Places join us at Radley on

10th November 2018 at 1.30pm

The secret to success is…

sharing your child’s reading journey Regular deliveries of books at your child’s reading level.

To book a place please call the number below or, follow the web link.

01235 543174

www.radley.org.uk/funded-places

www.readingchest.co.uk Book Rental for Children Learning to Read

Families Education

The Oratory School

The Oratory School is an independent day and boarding school for boys aged 11 to 18, located in the beautiful South Oxfordshire countryside.

With consistently strong academic performance, fantastic pastoral care and outstanding sporting facilities, The Oratory is a school for all-rounders who would thrive in a welcoming and nurturing community. According to The Good School’s Guide 2017 “…now’s the time to look again” in recognition of the dedication and drive from our teachers to ensure that each and every one of the boys achieves their potential. The Head Master, Joseph Smith, has a very clear vision for the school to ensure that every boy feels inspired to learn

and to achieve his best both academically and beyond the curriculum. We benefit from being a small school which enables every boy to be known, valued and stretched as an individual. The best way to discover the unique atmosphere of the school is to visit and experience it first-hand. Meeting the happy, independent and confident boys you will discover what makes The Oratory so special and help you decide whether your son would flourish here.

Our next open morning is Saturday 24th November, so please do get in touch to find out more.

Radley College A Radley education is about independent thought and learning with enthusiasm. It is about cultural awareness and the benefits of team sport. It is about academic ambition. It is about learning to live with others; it is about preparation for the world beyond its gates. Above all, it is about the core values that will underpin success throughout a Radleian’s life: as leaders, as citizens, as human beings.

If you are interested in sending your son to Radley, but would require additional financial support, then our Open Day on 10th November is an opportunity to see the school and hear

the Headmaster speak. It is an informal day, for parents and their children, particularly those whose sons are currently at a state primary school.

If you have a talented boy, who excels academically or at music, sport, art or drama then please contact admissions@radley.org.uk or 01235 543 174 or complete the enquiry form on www.radley.org.uk/funded-places

Abingdon Prep School Abingdon Prep - experts in boys’ education At Abingdon Prep we understand boys.

Confident or shy, robust or sensitive - and they’re usually a mixture of all four - we know what makes them tick. Wherever their interests lie, our extensive extra-curricular programme captures their enthusiasm.

At Abingdon Prep it’s cool to be in the choir and cool to work hard. Our small class sizes mean that strengths and weaknesses are accommodated and with two classes per year from age seven, we have plenty of opportunity for team sport, and full fixture cards for every term. Our teaching

is adapted to boys’ learning. Our phonics programme is tailored to suit them, we know the books they enjoy, the trips that will inspire and we appreciate that every boy is different. There is no typical Abingdon Prep boy. Boys flourish here, and happy boys make very good learners.

Magdalen College Junior School Life in MCS Junior School is never dull. Boys from 7 to 11 enjoy a challenging and inspiring curriculum, with many opportunities to enrich classwork through trips, activities and workshops.

The atmosphere fizzes with energy and the boys

are engaged, enthusiastic and happy. The highly committed teachers encourage the boys to develop their own interests and undertake projects to strengthen their independent learning. Almost all boys go on to MCS Senior School.

The 2017 ISI Inspection Report noted that ‘Pupils achievements beyond the formal curriculum are

familiesonline.co.uk

exceptional’ and that it is ‘staggering’ that pupils excel academically, whilst also reaching very high levels in Music, Sport, Drama and Art. Open Mornings: Saturday 15 September, Thursday 11 October, Friday 9 November Visit mcsoxford.org/opendays to book

Families Oxfordshire 13

One size fits all... not at OLA! Whether your child wears big or small wellies OLA will provide the right fit

Early Years & Junior School Open Morning 29 September 2018 • 10.00am - 12.30pm Looking at schools? Come visit us - no need to book.

OLA is an independent day school for girls & boys aged 3-18 years.

St John’s Road | Abingdon | Oxfordshire | OX14 2HB | 01235 523147 | www.olab.org.uk

Families Education

Our Ladies of Abingdon OLA is an independent day school for girls and boys aged 3-18 years old. For over 150 years OLA has had a reputation for high academic standards and excellent pastoral care. We are proud of our distinctive family atmosphere which fosters a real sense of community and happy relationships between staff and pupils. Our inclusive spirit means that we welcome boys and girls of every faith and none. OLA aims to develop the individual talents of each pupil, every child being seen as a unique person with gifts to be recognised, valued and nurtured. We are a school where success is celebrated, whether this is academic, sporting or

in the creative arts. Pupils encourage each other and take pleasure in one another’s achievements.

We are small enough for everyone to be valued but large enough to offer a wide and challenging curriculum.

Our Early Years, Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form are all on the same site right in the heart of Abingdon.

Contact: Early Years and Junior School: 01235 523147 and Senior School: 01235 524658

Cokethorpe School Cokethorpe School is a thriving co-educational day school situated in over 150 acres of beautiful Oxfordshire parkland. The Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form offers a well-rounded and stimulating education for pupils from Reception to Upper Sixth.

The rural setting, located two miles south of Witney and ten miles west of Oxford, provides an inspirational learning environment with excellent facilities and the School’s extensive bus network ensures it is easily accessible for families from across Oxfordshire and beyond.

Cokethorpe values its range of pupils and the

School prides itself on the attention it affords the individual, celebrating the diversity of their ambitions and success. The academic and extra-curricular programmes deliver a wealth of opportunities to support pupils in the discovery of new skills and passions. From sport, music, art and drama to debating, fundraising, entrepreneurship and expeditions, there is something to spark the imagination and focus the mind of every pupil.

Cranford House With a history stretching back 87 years, Cranford House in Moulsford are a renowned leader in independent education. The addition of their forthcoming Sixth Form, which will welcome its first intake in September 2020, will cement the school’s reputation as a superb all-through option.

The all-through model gives parents the chance to educate their children within the same setting from Nursery School right up to A-Levels and is vaunted by many as the ideal way to ensure children grow and learn in a consistent environment. This continuity can be key to ensuring that boys and girls are set the same

high expectations throughout their whole school careers, without the peaks and troughs that school changes can bring.

At Cranford House, the all-through model also plays a vital part in creating the family feel for which the school is renowned, ensuring that children of all ages feel able to confidently explore, question and experiment with a real sense of security.

Headington School Headington School is a leading day and boarding school for girls aged three to 18. Set in 23 acres, just a mile from Oxford city centre, facilities include a multimillion pound Dance and Fitness Centre, a state-of-the-art library, a purpose-built 240-seat Theatre, Music School and an Art School complete with photography darkroom.

Results Headington is recognised as one of the top schools in the country, with girls going on to study at Oxbridge, Russell Group, Ivy League and other prestigious universities around the world. The School offers an extremely broad curriculum with a choice of 30 A Level subjects or IB in the Sixth familiesonline.co.uk

Form and is consistently a top 50 UK school for GCSE and A Level and top 10 for IB. Beyond the classroom Headington offers an excellent extracurricular programme, with more than 150 clubs and activities to choose from. There are also currently over 45 different nationalities represented throughout the School, reflecting Oxford’s culturally and ethnically diverse make-up.

Whole School Open Morning Saturday 6th October 2018

Families Oxfordshire 15

GCSE League Table

So much education data is now produced by the government that there are near endless ways of ranking schools and parents can find it all rather baffling.

The traditional statistics at GCSE level showing the percentage of pupils at each school achieving A*-C, now reclassified as grades 9-5, in certain key subjects is still a popular way of listing and comparing schools. As an extension to this, in recent years, schools have also been graded according to their success with the English Baccalaureate (EBacc), a grouping of 5 core subjects, typically English, Maths, Science, a Modern Language and Geography or History.

Exam data collected in 2017 was used to calculate the latest performance indicator, ‘Progress 8’, now entering its third full year. The Progress 8 figure can show how good a school is at helping pupils progress beyond a pre-calculated national average by comparing each individual child’s levels of attainment at Key Stage 2 and at GCSE. A figure around 0 suggests that the school is meeting the progress average. Above 0 and the school is doing well at helping pupils progress, below 0 the opposite is the case.

Of course, the data only tells us part of the story. Many independent schools publish little or no data so often they don’t even feature on league tables and, as recent scandals involving grammar schools removing under performing pupils from assessments demonstrate, we can’t necessarily trust state school figures to be an accurate representation of the whole picture either. But sometimes, one has little choice but to look to league tables when trying to form an opinion of a school. When judging schools based on league tables, don’t place too much importance on any one particular indicator. The best schools may not top every table but their quality will be reflected in good scores across the board.

In 2017, state schools in Oxfordshire broadly reflected the national picture. The county’s Progress 8 score was level with the national average although schools had more pupils receiving a strong grade in the EBacc than in England as a whole. What it lacks in stellar state schools, the private sector makes up for. The county is home to some of the UK finest independent schools which are able to offer not only impressive academic records but also stand-out facilities for sport and the arts.

Independent schools are not an option for everyone but it is worth remembering that a third of independently-educated School Type pupils in the UK now have some kind of fee assistance.

School fees don’t necessarily D’Overbroeck’s Independent put private education beyond the reach of families with The Cherwell School Academy average incomes.

Gillotts School Academy For those applying to Cranford House School Independent state schools in Oxfordshire at the end of October, the likelihood is that you will receive your first choice school. In 2017, the local authority performed favourably on national offers day, placing 89% of children in their preferred secondary school – the national average 16 Families Oxfordshire

Matthew Arnold School

Academy

Bartholomew School

Academy

Burford School

Academy

Chipping Norton School The King's School

Independent

Lord Williams's School

Academy

was 84%.

Although GCSE and A level results are an important factor to bear in mind, they are far from being the only one, which is why many of us will taking in multiple school Open Days in the coming term. You want to choose a school which is ideal for your child, with inspiring teaching and good facilities to match. However, at the risk of information overload,it is crucial you decide what is really important to you and your child. And be realistic: for example,a not-very-academic child will be much happier in the top half of a non-selective school than bumping along at the bottom of a league table topper. Be honest with yourself about what you hope your child will gain from their school.

Remember, the most important things to bear in mind are: your own child your own family Does the school have the kind of environment where your child will be happy? Do the children look like people who could be his or her friends? How about the parents, are they people you’d like to get to know? Do the teachers and pupils appear to have good relationships?

Is the place well-maintained or are there too few litter bins and smelly loos (take a look!) What will the Achieving journey be like, not only now GCSE EBacc at Progress Grade 5 or above but also when your child may grade 5/C 8 in Eng & Maths take themselves when they’re or above older? Does the school empty 82% 61% N/A out at 3.30pm every day or 71% 48% 0.68 can your child stay for afterschool activities? Remember 69% 46% 0.27 that secondary school may 68% N/A N/A hold the key to your child’s future happiness at university, 66% 26% 0.3 work and in life generally, so 64% 36% 0.1 research your options and ask lots of questions!

61% 20% 0.13 Written by 59% 14% 0.17 The Good Schools Guide 58% 21% N/A 58%

28%

0.01 familiesonline.co.uk

Oxfordshire Independent School Open Days ABINGDON SCHOOL Park Road, OX14 1DE Boys 4-18 Day and Boarding OPEN MORNING 29 September 9.30 – 12.30, drop-in 01235 849011 admissions@abingdon.org.uk ABINGDON PREPARATORY SCHOOL Registrar, Mrs Anna Poole 01865 730771 annapoole@chandlings.org.uk www.chandlings.org.uk

HEADINGTON SCHOOL Oxford, OX3 7TD Girls 3-11 Day and Boarding OPEN MORNING Whole School 6 October www.headington.org, 01865 759 861/113 (Senior) 01865 759 429 (Prep) MAGDALEN COLLEGE SCHOOL Oxford, OX4 1DZ Boys 7-18 & Girls 6th Form OPEN MORNING Whole School 15 September, drop-in Junior School 11 October Senior School Open Afternoon 11 October Junior School Open Morning 9 November www.mcsoxford.org 01865 253430 registrar@mcsoxford.org.

COKETHORPE SCHOOL Witney, OX29 7PU Boys & Girls 4-18 OPEN MORNING Whole School 22 September 9.30 – 12.00 01993 703921 admissions@cokethorpe.org www.cokethorpe.org.uk

MOULSFORD BOY’S PREP SCHOOL Moulsford-on-Thames, OX10 9HR Day & Boarding Boys 4-13 OPEN DAY 21 September: 10.00-12.00 & 13.00-15.00 OPEN MORNING Whole School 22 September: 9.00-12.00 www.moulsford.com 01491 651438

CRANFORD HOUSE Moulsford, OX10 9HT Girls 3-16 & Boys 3-11 OPEN MORNING Whole School 6 October 9.30-12.00 openmorning@cranfordhouse.net 01491 651218 www.cranfordhouse.net

NEW COLLEGE SCHOOL Oxford, OX1 3UA Boys 4-13 01865 285560 office@newcollegeschool.org www.newcollegeschool.org OUR LADY’S ABINGDON OX14 3PS Boys & Girls 3-18 OPEN MORNING Senior School 22 September Junior Open Morning 29 September 01235 524658 (Senior School) 01235 523147 (Junior School) email admissions@olab.org.uk www.olab.org.uk OXFORD HIGH SCHOOL OX2 6XA Girls 4-18 Meet the Headmaster Senior 11 September 26 September 11 October OPEN EVENING Senior School 5 October oxfordhigh.gdst.net/visit-us 01865 559888 RADLEY COLLEGE Abingdon, OX14 2HR Boys 13-18 Boarding admissions@radley.org.uk 01235 543174 www.radley.org.uk

THE MANOR PREPARATORY SCHOOL Abingdon, OX13 6LN Boys and Girls 2-11 (Sept. 18) OPEN MORNING 6 October: 10.00-12.30 admissions@manorprep.org or 01235 858462 THE ORATORY SCHOOL Woodcote RG8 0PJ Boys day or boarding

OPEN MORNING

Saturday 24th November 01491 683522 registrar@oratory.co.uk

THE ORATORY PREPARATORY SCHOOL Goring Heath, RG8 7SF Boarding & Day Boys & Girls 2-13 OPEN MORNING 29 September 10.00 - 12.30 registrar@oratoryprep.co.uk or telephone 0118 9844511 www.oratoryprep.co.uk THE UNICORN SCHOOL Abingdon, OX14 1AA Boys & girls 6-16, Dyslexia and related Specialist Education registrar@unicornoxford.co.uk info@unicornoxford.co.uk 01235 530222 Unicorndyslexia.co.uk

Please mention Families Oxfordshire Magazine

All details are correct at time of printing. Please check each school prior to visiting.

CO-EDOOL

R SCH SENIO H FORM & SIXT

020 SEPT 2

OpenMorning Saturday, 6 October 9:30am-12:00pm

NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED

Reception Taster Day 26 September 9:30am -11:30pm Cranford House is situated in Moulsford on the Oxfordshire and Berkshire border and operates an extensive school minibus network throughout both counties. www.cranfordhouse.net

CranfordHouse Families SEP 180x130mm AW.indd 1 familiesonline.co.uk

04/08/2018 19:45 Families Oxfordshire 17

Empowerment and Performance Coaching Providing coaching services to support young people aged between 9 -21 years who lack direction, motivation and confidence to discover what makes them come alive, help build their confidence to follow it and increase their motivation to get positive results.

Unsure if coaching is the appropriate intervention?

Book a free 45 minutes consultation call today with Olajumoke Oritsegbone (Life & Performance Coach)

07932 876187 • 01235 413253 info@eandpcoaching.com www.eandpcoaching.com

Host Families For International Students Required We are looking for families, couples or individuals who would be willing to look after international students attending independent boarding schools from September 2018.

The students need their own room for the twice termly long weekends and/or the half-term holidays when they cannot return to their own homes.

We offer excellent rates plus expenses. If you would like more information and you feel that you could offer a home from home experience in a happy and caring environment, we would love to hear from you.

Please contact Emma Ryan on 07981 705275 or email: office@alphaplusguardians.co.uk

n W hatcla’ssseO s in the Clubs & g region offerin lar Extra Curricu fun for kids in

Ox fords h ire

Extra Curricular Clubs & Classes

MONKEY MUSIC

W R SOCCER SCHOOLS WHERE: The Oxford Academy

WHERE: Oxford, Abingdon, Thame

WHEN: Weekend sessions,

Monkey Music uses its own specially written curriculum, in age-appropriate classes from 3 months to 4 years. Go along and join hundreds of other little ones from all over Oxfordshire by booking your free trial at www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/oxford. www.monkeymusic.co.uk 01235 519 806

10.00-12.00 on grass pitch. £6.50 per session Welcome children of all abilities aged 4 – 12 years.

01865 587 867 www.wrsoccer.co.uk

Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum Kids Club

Stagecoach Performing Arts

Beginners Latin for Children

Wednesdays 3.45-5.00pm after school and regularly in the holidays, activity sessions for kids aged 6-9 years. No Parents!

Packed with trails, quizzes, games, craft, active learning, kitchen science and outdoor fun. Booking essential. £3.50 per session 01993 810211 or email education@sofo.org.uk www.sofo.org.uk/kids-club

Oxfordshire WHEN: Autumn term commences 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 coordination and fitness levels.

From £25 for two week trial www.stagecoach.co.uk 0800 915 0199

at Cheney WHEN: Sundays from 15 October: 11.00-12.00 A year-long beginner’s course for children 7 years and older and families designed to introduce Latin from scratch. You will learn new words and bits of grammar each week, as well as learn more about Roman civilisation.

Pre-book.info@irisproject.org.uk www.eoccc.org.uk/beginnerslatin-for-children

WHEN: Once a month on

WHERE: Venues across

Neill Cameron’s Comics Club

DIPPERS & DIVERS WHERE: Venues

WHERE: The Story Museum

Develop comic-making skills and share ideas with like-minded enthusiasts with artist Neill Cameron on hand to offer helpful advice and tips. Meets on first Saturday of the month – go for a single session or become a regular! For 8-13 years.

Pre-book. £7 www.storymuseum.org.uk 01865 807600

PERFORM

Weekly drama, dance and singing classes WHERE: Oxford, Abingdon, Didcot, Wallingford, Thame Confidence-building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention.

Call to book no-obligation FREE trial sessions. www.perform.org.uk/try

WHERE: Iris Classics Centre

Little Monkey’s Gym ‘n’ Swim

WHERE: Various locations

Swimming classes for 2 years and above in groups of approximately 6. Gym with soft play, climbing and hand apparatus, music. www.janebrooksgymandswim. com 01865 841 409

Oxfordshire Taekwon-do & Little Pumas WHERE: Didcot, Abingdon,

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

in Didcot and surrounds Various classes for babies and children. Small class size with activities including group and individual work. After-school classes held evenings and weekends. 01235 763328 www.dippersanddivers.co.uk

Saturday Clubs

WHERE: Oxford, Abingdon

and Bicester New Bicester venue from September! Inspiring clubs that offer fun workshops for families, children and young people (aged 5-15) to try out science-inspired creative activities from coding to crafting, investigating and inventing. Prebook. www. scienceoxford. com

LITTLE KICKERS WHERE: Various locations and

dates across Oxfordshire From £45 + membership fee for 6 sessions. Football classes throughout the year for ages 18 months to 7 years. www.littlekickers.co.uk 01183 282 321 familiesonline.co.uk

Music Box

WHERE: Summertown &

Cutteslowe From £70 per 10 week term Music education and fun for toddlers to young teenagers.

Foundation skills taught through songs to develop musical skills without the technical demands of an instrument. 01865 559649 birdsongmusic.co.uk

The Oxford School of Ballet

WHERE: Woodstock Road Oxford

Tuition in classical ballet for children from 3 years, who start in a pre-school class to learn the basics. www.oxfordballet.co.uk 01865 511097

Shaolin Mantis King Fu, Oxford WHERE: New Marston Primary

School & Florence Park Community Hall From £22.50/month Practical and theoretical training, multi-level practice situations in a controlled environment. 6 – 14 years. Sundays mornings and Thursday evenings. www.oxfordkungfu.co.uk 07917 334 818

Coyotes ELE

WHERE: South Oxford

Community Centre Weekend Spanish courses for 4-12 year olds. Max 12 per class.

Children learn in a fun, easy way.

GCSE tuition also offered. www.spanishcoyotes.com info@spanishcoyotes.com

Baby Bumpkin & Tatty Bumpkin Yoga

WHERE: Venues across Oxford

Happy, sociable classes filled with fun, music and active movement. Routines come to life with storytelling and music.

Help develop strength and coordination. Pre-book. www.tattybumpkin.com/ seoxfordshire 07772 966039 Families Oxfordshire 19

WHAT COULD OUR FUTURES HOLD?

SIXTH FORM

SENIOR SCHOOL

PREP SCHOOL NURSERY