Brighouse and Elland Scallymag spring 2016

S CA LL Y A G M

THE

®

Brighouse, Elland, Lightcliffe, Clifton, Southowram, Rastrick, Bailiff Bridge & Surrounding Areas

inside:

out and about We head out to rate more family friendly local venues

be a winner!

You could scoop a signed copy of a brand new children’s book

news

New support group to help allergy sufferers set up

plus FEATURES, VIEWS and SO MUCH more!

Spring ’16

Issue 41

For Local Parents, Carers & Kids

E E R F

Welcome

News

WELCOME

CONTENTS

Allergy support group Fundraising for flood victims Harrison’s success story

Page 3 Page 4-5 Page 16

Out and About Fun on slippery slope

Page 6

Competitions Win signed copy of kids’ book

Page 8

Diary pages Pre-school diary Out of school diary

Page 10 Page 12

Our superb springtime front cover was designed by eight-year-old

Sami Wobschall

of St John’s Primary Academy, Clifton. He wins a voucher for the Pot Spot in Brighouse.

To be in with a summer edition, email it to kate@ thescallymag.co.uk by August 1, 2016.

Spring has sprung – and not a moment too soon! It’s a big good riddance to the winter of discontent we have just endured.

The Boxing Day floods were calamitous and their effect will still be felt many months from now.

People’s lives were washed away in a deluge of sludge and filthy water; many years of hard work literally went down the drain for so many local businesses.

Yet we Yorkshire folk don’t give up so easily. The community has rallied round – as we might expect – to help those in their hour of need. It was heartwarming to hear about people stopping and offering to help the team at Water’s Edge when disaster struck. No job was too dirty or difficult; young and old alike mucked in while others brought refreshments and clean drinking water for the workers. A local Facebook appeal for donations of toys went viral; big and small businesses alike pledged their help and support.

The Water’s Edge team may have had to close The Edge play gym, but work is already under way to make the children’s nursery side of the business even better than before. They, like many down the road in Hebden Bridge and Todmorden, may still be reeling from the floods, but are planning to bounce back in style.

Kate xx

Contact us To discuss and book advertising space, ideas for future articles or just to let us know what you think of the magazine, please get in touch by any of the following means: 0 8 Hawthorn Close, Clifton, Brighouse, West Yorks HD6 1RG 8 kate@thescallymag.co.uk  07957 526952 R www.thescallymag.co.uk The Scallymag (Halifax) @theScallymag While every care is taken to ensure the information contained in this magazine is true, accurate and fair, the publisher cannot take any responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or for events arising from the use of this information.

Any statements or opinions given in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher and no products and services mentioned in articles or adverts are officially endorsed by them. © The Scallymag 2014 All content of this magazine is copyright. No part of it may be reproduced by any means or in any form without written permission from the publisher.

The Scallymag® is a registered trademark of Catalyze Enterprises Ltd.

news

support group for allergy sufferers

P

arents whose child has recently been diagnosed with an allergy have a new source of support at what can be a difficult and confusing time.

A new support group has been set up to provide guidance and advice.

The West Yorkshire Severe Allergy Support Group is the brainchild of first aider Les Griffiths, who aims to help those living with severe allergies.

Les said: “Originally, we were concerned around the ‘peer support’ particularly for those newly diagnosed and those feelings of why me?, Why my child? Where do I go now? What can my child eat? What about parties? and, of course when the time comes, the ‘kissing debate’.

“It has become obvious during these first few months that it is not just life-threatening anaphylactic reactions but a number of conditions which are inter-linked.

“These all involve auto-immune responses or problems with skin cell viability and include asthma, eczema

and coeliac disease as well as severe allergy to seafood, dairy, medication, venom, latex, nuts (or more specific proteins in nut oils), black henna, and latex food syndrome – the list goes on.

“Originally, my main emphasis was towards severe allergy and the support from the Anaphylaxis Campaign, who have been brilliant from the start, but there is no getting away from the fact that there are a number of issues suffered by people which are interlinked through auto-immune system, skin viability or gut problems.”

The group is there to support all those with an allergy – patients, family and friends.

It also compiles a regular newsletter offering news, views and tips such as which restaurants and cafes offer gluten free options.

The next meeting is at the Old Golf House Hotel, Outlane, on Monday April 11 from 7pm until around 8.30pm.

For more information, contact Les on 07595 906626; check out the Facebook face Allergy Support Group West Yorkshire; or email griffles@ talktalk.net.

say ‘Hola’ to fun, early language learning

T

here’s no better time for your child to start learning a new language than when he or she is very young.

And a new pre-school Spanish class in Brighouse is a fantastic introduction to language learning.

La Jolie Ronde licensee Kate Wobschall is offering the pre-school class every Monday at 10.45am at Rowley Poleys Indoor Play Centre and Cafe.

Kate already runs two successful afterschool classes at the Bradford Road play gym on Thursday afternoons.

She said: “Children are never too

young to start learning another language. They’re like little sponges – they take everything in and aren’t afraid to have a go at pronouncing new words. Plus the songs and games are always well received!”

Classes cost £4 per child and last approximately half an hour. They are suitable for babies and children aged up to five. The course follows the award-winning La Jolie Ronde programme, which has been running for more than 30 years.

For more information, email kate.wobschall@gmail.com or go to https://www.facebook.com/ fivestarlanguagelearners.

raising cash in the long run!

Nursery owner Joanne Wood is running this year’s Virgin London Marathon to help disabled children achieve their dreams of competing in the Paralympic Games.

Joanne – proprietor of Water’s Edge Nursery Limited in Elland – is training hard for the April 24 event, often running at 6.30am before taking her own children to school then putting in a hard day at work.

She is hoping to raise at least £2,000 for the Get Kids Going charity, which gives disabled young people the opportunity to play sport at all levels.

Joanne’s brother Mark and personal trainer Lorraine will be running alongside her, and are aiming to raise a further £2,000 each.

Joanne said working with children every day had inspired her to raise money for a young people’s charity: “There are so many amazing charities to choose from but this stood out as it not only provides disabled children with desperately needed equipment but gives them a life of their own and a fantastic chance to participate in sport.”

Joanne first started running two years ago, when she set herself the challenge of completing the Great North Run, on that occasion raising money for a children’s cancer charity. “The following year I did the run again with six of my best friends. So I thought, where do I go from here? Then my good friend and personal trainer Lorraine turned 50 in January and it had always been her dream to run the London Marathon so when she asked me to join her, I jumped at the chance.

“Training is well under way and it really is a challenge, juggling family time with work and all the training, but it will all be worth it.

“I’m excited and apprehensive but the thought of my husband, Matthew, and our twins Isabelle and Emily being there to cheer me on will definitely spur me on to the finish line.”

To sponsor Joanne, head to her Just Giving page at http:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/joannewood-SAVMLMBONDS3332016-6065.

news

community was amazing, but Fl

T

he team at Water’s Edge Nursery Limited have extended their heartfelt thanks to the Elland community who came to their aid after the devastating Boxing Day floods.

Fortunately, the ground floor play gym was not affected and owner Joanne Wood and her team were able to use the space to accommodate nursery children. But everything in the nursery, which was situated on a lower level, was destroyed when the River Calder burst its banks.

Sadly, the decision has now been taken to close the play gym and permanently relocate the nursery on the ground floor. But work is already under way on plans to make the nursery bigger and better than ever.

“We are obviously devastated that we will have to lose the play gym,” said Joanne, “but we just couldn’t face going through what we have again. To see 14 years of hard work wiped away by the floods was utterly souldestroying.”

Joanne said the response from the local community had been overwhelming. “We were inundated with offers of help,” she said. “People were donating toys, stopping their vans as they drove by to help, bringing us food and refreshments – people have been absolutely amazing.

We can’t thank them enough.

“At the moment, we have relocated our baby room and staff to premises very close by, thanks to Gareth Henderson at Orchard Environmental who has kindly provided space for us, and it’s so close that we are able to offer the same extremely high standards of care there as we did here.”

Joanne said there were so many people she wanted to thank for their help, from people who live near the nursery in Park Road to big companies and also other local nurseries.

“People came along and gave their time, taking on really difficult and, at times, dirty jobs such as shovelling away the mud, and for that we are eternally

grateful,” she said. “The community has been unbelievable. People we didn’t know were turning up to help on foot and with their vans – it was overwhelming. They even brought us kettles and bottled water as well as food, toys and cleaning equipment.

One family, who were up from London visiting relatives, insisted on stopping off on their way home with donations.

“And of course our nursery families both past and present have been amazing, bringing us toys and getting stuck into jobs such as ripping up the floors. “ “We had a lot of offers of help, support and donations of equipment from the three nurseries in Elland, as

well as a couple in Brighouse. It was really touching that they all reached out to help us.”

Ikea at Birstall not only donated furniture but built it before delivering it to the nursery. Tesco gave brand new toys and cleaning equipment; Master Matting in Halifax donated made to measure play mats; Pureclean UK jet washed the playground to make it mud free; and Morrisons and Greggs both provided food and refreshments for the clean-up team. And there was a surprise for the children when retired firemen who make up the group Tunnel 2 Towers arrived in a couple of fire engines. They helped to rip out the ruined flooring then washed away the mud using power hoses.

Plans for the new-look nursery include new classrooms for all ages, a large indoor activity space incorporating a performing arts area, library, music and sensory rooms and an exciting out of school/ holiday club, plus an interactive outdoor play area with stimulating features.

loods spell the end for the edge raise cash for victims – and win a wedding!

ABOVE: The Tunnel 2 Towers team lend a hand with the big clean-up.

LEFT: The outdoor play area after the River Calder burst its banks on Boxing Day.

A fabulous wedding is the star prize in a raffle to raise money for the victims of Calderdale’s Boxing Day floods.

Calderdale’s Big Fat Wedding Raffle has been organised by Calderdale Community Foundation and proceeds from every £1 ticket sold will go to the group’s Flood Relief Fund.

It is hoped the competition will raise thousands of pounds for flood victims.

First prize is a wedding, including an afternoon and evening reception, drinks and wedding breakfast.

A bridal gown and bridesmaids’ dresses, wedding cake, photography, transport, drinks, jewellery and even music are all included.

The runner-up wins a luxury castle stay and a photography package.

The winner will be announced during a wedding fair at the Cedar Court Hotel, Huddersfield – the

venue where the winner’s wedding will take place.

The draw will be made at a mini wedding fair between 5pm and 8pm on April 28.

To be in with a chance of winning, buy a ticket online at www.justgiving. com/BigFatWeddingRaffle or check out www.facebook.com/CBFWR.

flood fundraisers give it some welly!

C

alderdale schools have been working together to support the schools affected by the Boxing Day floods.

Schools across Calderdale have been coming up with their own fundraising ideas to help the four schools which have been badly affected by flooding.

Pupils at Riverside Junior School and Central Street Infant and Nursery School in Hebden Bridge, and Burnley Road Academy and Scout Road Academy in Mytholmroyd have all been severely affected, with the schools suffering extensive damage to buildings and contents.

To help give immediate aid to these schools to replace perishable resources

lost in the floods, many local schools are holding non-uniform days to fundraise, and staff at Bowling Green Primary School have set up a fundraising web page for anyone to donate to the cause, and have already passed their fundraising target of £4,000.

Schools are donating the money they’ve raised to this website and people are also able to make their own donations; visit https://crowdfunding. justgiving.com/chris-booth-2 to see the tally rising and to make your own donation.

St John’s Primary Academy in Clifton raised hundreds of pounds selling buns and cakes which were baked by staff and parents, while another school held a Wear your Wellies to work day.

Coun Megan Swift, Calderdale

Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People’s Services, said: “Many schools in Calderdale have been affected in some way by the flooding, but some have been hit harder than others. Four schools have had to relocate classes because of flood damage and while insurance will eventually cover the cost of repairs and replacement contents, there is an immediate need for items like workbooks, textbooks, equipment and furniture to ensure the affected children don’t lose out.

“It’s lovely that other schools across Calderdale are coming up with innovative and resourceful ideas to help these schools recover quickly, and it’s amazing that they’ve surpassed their target amount already!”

COMPETITION out and about

fun on the slippery slope

TOP: Rain won’t stop play when you’re snow tubing.

BELOW: Safety first.

BOTTOM: Flying down the slippery slope.

S

now isn’t just for winter, you know. Nope, on the slopes of Halifax you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing all year round.

On a hillside high above Halifax, with breathtaking views across the valley and beyond, is the Sportsman Inn and Leisure centre, which boasts an outdoor ski slope plus an indoor play gym.

As well as skiing and snow boarding, fun seekers can enjoy the noble art of snowtubing. For the uninitiated, this involves hurtling down the ski slope in a huge inflatable rubber ring. Think about the donuts that can be found bobbing around behind speedboats abroad, only without the falling out and getting soaked.

It’s long been a popular choice for action-packed kids’ parties with a difference, but adults can join in the fun too. We joined a special half-term holiday session on a blustery Friday afternoon; after initially fearing the weather might spoil our fun, we were assured that in fact the track is even faster when wet.

All snowtubers are fitted with a helmet before heading to the slopes, and gloves and sturdy footwear are a must. What does down must also go up and it’s worth bearing in mind that younger children may need a hand dragging their snow tubes back up the hill to ride again. Arms and legs must

be covered. Before hitting the slope, the instructors give everyone a full safety briefing then break you in gently, sending you down in ones and twos. As everyone’s confidence grows, they take you further up the slope (but not to the top) and put you in groups of three, four and even all together, flying over the bumps near the top before gathering speed on the way down.

Parents who aren’t roped into dragging their children’s tubes back up the hill can grab a hot chocolate from the restaurant downstairs and watch the fun from an indoor viewing area.

There’s also a good sized indoor play gym for younger brothers and sisters to let off steam, plus a family bar and restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat.

It’s a high octane, super cool way to blow off steam in the fresh air. On a sunny day, the views are fabulous and parents can soak up some rays on the outdoor grassed area as their little ones get the most fun workout imaginable.

Snow tubing parties are popular at weekends but keep an eye on the website for extra sessions anyone can join, and for school holiday dates.

FACT FILE

Address: The Sportsman Inn, Bradford Old Road, Swalesmoor/Ploughcroft Halifax HX3 6UG Telephone: 01422 340760 Website: www.snowtubinghalifax.co.uk Cost: From £8.50

news Ooh la la! nursery’s free french lessons

L

ittle ones at Toy Box children’s day nursery in Daisy Road, Brighouse, are enjoying a taste of la belle France.

The nursery offers free weekly French lessons for the pre-school children, who have been learning through song, dance and games with the award-winning La Jolie Ronde programme.

Nursery owner Noreen Raper said: “The children are loving the lessons and are picking the language up really quickly.

The parents love that they go home and can speak in French!”

The nursery, in the grounds of Woodhouse Primary School, recently celebrated a hat-trick of ‘outstanding’ Ofsted ratings.

In the same week, it achieved the prestigious Step 3 in Calderdale Council’s Steps To Quality scheme.

Ofsted inspector Rachel Ayo praised

the nursery, saying children flourished and staff were excellent role models.

In her report, she said: “Staff create a highly accessible, vibrant and language rich environment. Children have superb opportunities to make choices and manage self-care tasks. They develop excellent levels of confidence and independence, a positive approach to learning and are extremely well prepared for moving on to school.

“Children flourish and make excellent progress, given their starting points. Staff take full account of children’s preferred learning styles, interests and fascinations.

“Consequently, each child’s learning journal is unique and specifically tailored to them.”

The report also praised the staff’s communication with parents.

Since opening in 2005, the nursery employs 15 members of childcare staff, including the management team, and has more than 90 children on roll.

Mrs Raper added: “When Toy Box Day Nursery and Pre-School opened in February 2005 it was the first nursery in Calderdale to be awarded Outstanding by Ofsted.

“We are all very proud that, 10 years later, we have been awarded Outstanding on three consecutive inspections, giving us 100 per cent record since we opened.

“All the staff have worked extremely hard for this.

“Our aim now is to continue building on our success while continuing to provide outstanding childcare and education for every child who attends our nursery.”

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mums mean business

mum louise has the write stuff

M

um Louise Aaron is sharing the stories she tells her children with the world after publishing her first book.

Jamasaurus is Louise’s debut picture book and stars a hungry dinosaur who simply can’t decide what he fancies.

After racking his brains he finally finds what he’s after – but only after a herd of wild dinosaurs has helped prepare it!

This colourful tale is ideal for young children and Louise already has two more picture books in the pipeline.

Louise said writing had been a longstanding interest but it was only after she had her children Charlie, four, and two-year-old Pixie that she began to write for children.

“My initial idea was to write for slightly older children but I was reading so many picture books to the kids that I decided to have a go at writing something aimed at younger children and I haven’t looked back since,” said Louise.

“I really enjoy writing for younger children and when I was still on maternity leave from my day job as a psychotherapist, I found that I could usually do a draft during nap times. I could often be found with my writing pad at a play gym while Charlie played and Pixie bounced in the jumperoo!

“More recently, I’ve been concentrating more on the illustrations but as I am not a natural artist, I have found this more tricky and purposefully

NEW CHAPTER: Louise Aaron has published her first children’s book.

RIP-ROARING READ: The colourful story of the Jamasaurus.

kept them simple due to my limited artistic skill!”

Louise decided to self-publish the book after encountering long delays hearing back from various mainstream publishers and agents. “It felt quite demotivating so I made the decision to self publish. This way, my kids can enjoy the stories I am writing now, whereas they could have realistically been too old for them by the time I was able to become published through a mainstream publisher.

“Self-publishing was a steep learning curve in itself but the publishers I am with, Spiderwize, have been brilliant.”

Louise is also working on two more books in the series – Where Have You Gone, Trampledon? and Nothing Scares a Terrifyingdactyl, and has a number of

other picture books in the pipeline. n We have a signed copy of Jamasaurus to give away to one lucky Scallymag reader! To be in with a chance of winning, send your name, address and daytime telephone number on a postcard to The Scallymag, 8 Hawthorn Close, Clifton, Brighouse HD6 1RG or email your details to kate@ thescallymag.co.uk by April 30. n Congratulations to Suzanne Loraine, who was the lucky winner of our winter competition to win tickets to The Snow Queen at Halifax’s Square Chapel for the Arts. And well done Debbie Adamthwaite, who won a massage at Alexandra House Spa in our autumn issue.

all rise for 2016 bake-off Spatulas at the ready – it’s almost time for this year’s Great Brighouse Bake-off.

The 2016 event takes place on Saturday April 16 at St Martin’s Church from 10am until 5pm.

This year’s charities are Calderdale Flood Relief and the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice.

The categories include: n Lemon drizzle cake; n Victoria sponge cake; n Five cupcakes; n Carrot Cake; n Lemon Meringue Pie; n Chocolate Cake; n Homemade bread;

n Bake your favourite; n People’s Choice (judged by the public on appearance only, using voting card); n Children’s freestyle, with under eights and under 16s categories.

Entries should be submitted between 8am-10am on the day of the event.

Attractions include a luxury charity raffle with a host of excellent prizes, cake auction, stalls, quizzes, children’s craft corner, activities, baking demos and musical entertainment.

Afternoon tea will also be served – to book your table please email paige. jodi@yahoo.com.

the diary pages

T

he Scallymag Diary Pages are a FREE listings service designed to help busy parents and children plan their weekly activities.

Wednesday

Lightcliffe Pre-School c/o Christchurch, Brighouse Road, Hipperholme HX3 8EB 07816 216292

Stainland Playgroup Holywell United Reformed Church Hall, Stainland

Hopscotch TueL Lane, Sowerby Bridge 01422 316227

Tuesday

9am11.30am 12.30pm3pm

9am11.30am 12.30pm3pm

8.30am-3pm

9am-3pm

9am11.30am 12.30pm3pm

9am11.30am 12.30pm3pm

8.30am-3pm

9am-3pm

9am11.30am 12.30pm3pm

9am11.30am 12.30pm3pm

8.30am-3pm

9am11.30am 12.30pm3pm

9am11.30am 12.30pm3pm

8.30am-3pm

9am11.30am 12.30pm3pm

9am11.30am 12.30pm3pm

8.30am-3pm

8.30am11.30am 12.30pm3.30pm

9am-3pm

8.30am11.30am 12.30pm3.30pm 8.30am11.30am 12.30pm3.30pm

9am11.30am

Thursday 9am-3pm

9am11.30am

Friday 9am-3pm

Play Palace Jubilee Mill, 3a West Parade Halifax 01422 353700

Rowley Poleys Play Gym Floor 1, Wellholme Garage 74 Bradford Road, Brighouse 07722 517091

2pm-5pm

2pm-6pm

9.30am-6pm

9.30am5pm

9am-7pm

9am-4pm

9.30am3.30pm

Tuesday

9am-noon 1pm-7pm

10am-5pm

10am-5pm

10am-1pm 2pm-5pm

2pm-6pm

9.30am-6pm

9.30am5pm

9am-7pm

9am-7pm

9.30am3.30pm

Wednesday

9am-10am 10.45am-noon 1pm-3pm

Closed

10am-noon

10am-1pm

Closed

9.30am-6pm

9.30am5pm

9am-7pm

9am-7pm

9.30am3.30pm

Thursday

9am-noon 3pm-6pm

10am-5pm

10am-6pm

10am-1pm 2pm-6pm

2pm-6pm

9.30am-6pm

9.30am5pm

9am-7pm

9am-7pm

9.30am3.30pm

Friday

9am-11am 1.15pm-1.45pm 2.30pm-7.30pm

10am6.30pm

10am-5pm

2pm-5pm

Closed

9.30am-6pm

9.30am5pm

9am-7pm

9am-7pm

9.30am3.30pm

Saturday

noon-1.30pm 3pm-5.30pm

10am-4pm

10am-4pm

10am-1pm

10am-4pm

9.30am-3pm

9am-7pm

9am-7pm

9.30am1.30pm

sunday

10am-4pm

Closed

Closed

Closed

10am-4pm

Closed

9am-7pm

9am-7pm

Closed

10am-1pm

Closed

01422 288068 See pool website for full listings

Big Blue Frog Stead Street, Halifax 01422 363878

10am-5pm

The Fun House Dispensary Walk, Halifax 01422 383131

10am6.30pm

Elland Library Coronation Street, Elland 01422 374472

9am- 11am 1pm- 6.30pm

Brighouse Library Halifax Road Brighouse 01422 288060

Monday

Swim for all Brighouse Swimming Pool, Woodvale Road

The Edge Play Gym Water’s Edge Children’s Nursery Park Road, Elland 01422 377222

soft play areas

Bailiff Bridge Library Devon Way, Bailiff Bridge 01484 719164

Library times Hipperholme Library Council Offices, Leeds Road, Hipperholme 01422 202257

Swim

Monday

Sunnybank Pre-School Sunnybank Annexe, Greetland School, Saddleworth Road 01422 370162

Whether you’re looking for a language or karate class, dance, toddler group or play gym opening times, you’ll find all the local information you need right here.

We aim to make this list as accurate and complete as possible. But if you spot anything that is missed out or any errors, then please let us know so we can update our records for the next edition.

It is free to add a listing to this section – just get in touch via the contact details on page 2 if there are any children’s activities, opening times and so on that you would like to add.

Sowood Preschool Sowood Community Centre, Stainland Road 01422 374367

Elland Parish Playgroup The Old School Rooms, All Saints Church, Savile Road, Elland 01422 370136

pre-schools & playgroups

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

MONDAY

pre school diary

10

Manic Monda 9.30am-11.30a For children ag years, £1.60 p Creations Com Children’s Cen Pellon, Halifax 01422 434006

Humpty Dumpty Toddler Group 9.15am-11.15am New Hope Church, Warley Road, Halifax 07952 995710

Toddler Talk 2pm-4pm New Road Children’s Centre Sowerby New Road School, Sowerby New Road, Sowerby Bridge 01422 317082

Parent Link Worker Drop-in 9am-11am Field Lane Children’s Centre, Burnsall Road, Rastrick 01484 386621

Messy Monkeys 1.30pm-3pm Suitable for children aged 12 months and over.

Field Lane Children’s Centre, Burnsall Road, Rastrick 01484 386621

Jo Jingles 9.45am, 10.45am, 11.45am Victoria Hall, 212 Halifax Road, Ripponden, Sowerby Bridge Kerry - 01422 820425

Slingdanz 10am-10.45am Rowley Poleys, Bradford Road, Brighouse £60 for 10 weeks, some £6 payg spaces. Exercise class, slings provided.

Katherine: 07871645603.

Action Kids Academy Move-Play-Learn Throughout Calderdale Contact Heather 07717 576160

Baby Massage Top2Toe Therapy Apex House, Rastrick 9.30am-10am Contact lynni@top2toetherapy. co.uk

Little Squigglers Southgate Methodist Church, Elland, 10am-10.55am nikki@littlesquigglers.co.uk

Boogie Babes The Edge Play 9.30am and 10 Email lisa@bo

Music and Action 9.15am-10.45am St Paul’s Methodist Church Sowerby Bridge 01422 835614

All Saints Church Parent and Toddler Group 9.30am-11.30am then 12.30pm2.30pm All Saints Church Hall, Godfrey Road, Skircoat Green Wilma - 01422 320097

Bumps and Babies group 9.30am-11.15am Age 0-18 mths, £1.60 per family.

Term time only Innovations Children’s Centre, Cousin Lane, Ovenden, Halifax, HX2 8DQ 01422 248222

Greetland Parent and Toddler Group 9.30am-11.30am Greetland Community Centre Rochdale Road, Greetland 01422 311688

Stainland and Holywell Green Parent and Toddler Group 9.30am-11.30am Green United Reformed Church, Stainland Road 07917 450699

Bumps and B 10am-11am New Road Chi Sowerby New Sowerby New Bridge 01422 835614

Action Kids Academy Move-Play-Learn Throughout Calderdale Contact Heather 07717 576160

Groovy Movers 11am-11.45am The Play Barn, Birkenshaw £4.50 pay as you go, includes free play in the gym afterwards Helen - 07747 803627

Little Squigglers St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Salterhebble, 11am-11.55am nikki@littlesquigglers.co.uk

Groovy Movers 11am-11.45am The Play Barn, Birkenshaw £4.50 pay as you go, includes free play in the gym afterwards Helen - 07747 803627

Messy Monkeys 9.15am-10.45am Whinney Hill Community Centre No need to book.

For more information please ring 01484 714768

Jo Jingles 9.45am, 10.45am, 11.45am Big Blue Frog, Stead Street, Halifax Kerry - 01422 820425

Buddy Bears 9.30am-11.30am.

For children who are walking up to four years. £1.60 per family.

Illingworth Community Children’s Centre, Occupation Lane, Illingworth, HX2 9RL 01422 243633

Moo Music Salvation Army Hall, New Hey Road, Huddersfield HD3 4BZ 10am-10.45 Moo Music (ages one to five; 11am-11.45am Baby Moo (12 months and under) Helen - 07890 589240

Adventure World Parent and Toddler Group 11am-1pm Unit 2, James Street, Elland 01422 252208

Pyjama Drama Rowley Poleys, Bradford Road, Brighouse, £5 per child.

10am-0.35am Dewdrops 6-12 months; 10.45am-11.20am Rainbows and Raindrops, 2-5 years.

Kate: 01484 615686

Moo Music 10am-10.45am Moo Music (age 1-5 years); 11am-11.45am Baby Moo (birth to 12 months) The Salvation Army, New Hey Road, Oakes, Huddersfield.

Helen – 07890 589240

Tiny Treasures 1pm-2.30pm Elland Chidren’s Centre, Boxhall Road. For babies aged up to 12 months. No need to book.

For more information, ring 01422 266197.

Well Baby clinic 9.30am-11am Kevin Pearce Children’s Centre, Ovenden Road, Ovenden, Halifax HX3 5RQ 01422 252209

Boogie Babes Central Methodist Church, Brighouse 10am Email lisa@boogiebabes.biz

Jumping Clay Rowley Poleys, Brighouse.

12.20pm-1pm, 07505 001414

Brighouse Ev Playgroup 10.15am-10.45 Evangelical Ch Road, Brighou 01484 717750

Tatty Bumpkins 10am-11am Play Palace, Jubilee Mill, 3a West Parade, Halifax 08701 430063

babyballet Rowley Poleys, Bradford Road, Brighouse. Please ring for times: Louise 07747 617763

St Matthew’s Baby and Toddler Group 9.30am-11am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Church Street, Rastrick Michelle - 07926 460958

Creepy Crawlies 1.30pm-3pm Cliffe Hill Community Primary School, Lightcliffe Emma - 01422 202086

Stainland and Holywell Green Parent and Toddler Group 9.30am-11.30am Green United Reformed Church, Stainland Road 07917 450699

Jo Jingles 9.40am, 10.40am, 11.40am Waring Green Community Centre, Garden Road, Brighouse Kerry - 01422 820425

Tatty Bumpkins 10.30am-11.30am Big Blue Frog, Stead Street, Halifax 08701 430063

Mini Yoga with Mini Me Time 10am-11am Christ Church, Lightcliffe info@minimetime.co.uk

Mini Massage with Mini Me Time 11am-noon Christ Church, Lightcliffe Ages two to three-and-a-half enquiries@strikertots.co.uk

Sling Swing Lightcliffe Club, Lightcliffe. Starts 11.30am.

Fiona: 07740346457

Just4kids play session 9.30am-11am St Paul’s Church, Tower Hill, Sowerby Bridge Lucy - 01422 340440

CJ’s 9.30am-12.30pm The Elim Centre, Ryburn Street, Sowerby Bridge 01422 836441 Term time only

Stones Baby and Toddler Group 10am-11.30am Stones Methodist Church, Rochdale Road, Ripponden Lindsey - 01422 834335

Warley St John’s Parent and Toddler Group 10am-11.30am Warley St John’s Church, Windleroyd Lane, off Burnley Road, Warley 01422 885623/320592

Baby Clinic 11am-1pm Station Road Surgery Sowerby Bridge 08444 778916

Baby Adventu 1pm-2.30pm.

Age 0-14 mths Illingworth Co Centre, Occup Illingworth, HX 01422 243633

Action Kids Academy Move-Play-Learn Throughout Calderdale Contact Heather 07717 576160

Little Squigglers St Peter’s Community Centre, Sowerby, 11am-11.55am nikki@ littlesquigglers.co.uk FIRST SESSION FREE!

Puddle Ducks swimming lessons 9.30am-10am, Woodhouse School, Brighouse Ages two to five years Jenny - 0113 8267253

Rhythm Time 9.30am, 10.15am The Edge Play Gym, Elland From birth to 14 months Rebecca - 07938 752005

Puddle Ducks swimming lessons 9.30am-10am, Woodhouse School, Brighouse Ages 15 months to two years Jenny - 0113 8267253

Boogie Tots 10am-11am Caspers, Uppe Brighouse Ages three to Chloe - 07791

Breastfeeding Peer Support Group 12.30pm-2pm Information shop for young people, Connextions, Alexander Street, Halifax

Fun Swim 1pm-2pm Sowerby Bridge Swimming Pool, Hollins Mill Lane, Sowerby Bridge 01422 831929

St John’s Parents and Toddler Group 9.45am-11.15am (term time only) St John’s Church Hall, off Gooder Lane, Rastrick Sharon - 01484 719670

Little Strikers 10am, 11am Central Methodist Church, Brighouse 01484 714768

Saturday Splat Group Held on the first Saturday of every month, 10am-11.30am, at Wellholme Children’s Centre, Bradford Road, Brighouse. A chance for families with children with additional needs to meet.

Contact 01484 714768.

Hove Edge Toddler Group 9.30am-11am Hove Edge Club 01484 401294

Baby Yoga Top2Toe Thera Apex House, R 9.30am-10.30a Contact lynni@ co.uk

Young Parent 1.30pm-3pm No need to bo Field Lane Ch Burnsall Road 01484 386621

Key

ays am ged up to five per family. mmunity ntre, Albert Road, x HX2 0QD 6

Spanish lessons Pre-school Spanish for children aged up to four years.

Rowley Poleys, Bradford Road, Brighouse. From 10.45am-11.15am, £4 per child, includes entry to gym.

Kate: 07957 526952

Sand Art and Pre-School Crafts Rowley Poleys, Bradford Road, Brighouse. 12.30pm2.30pm, from £4 per child.

Debbie: 07983 962976

s y Gym, Elland 0.30am oogiebabes.biz

Rhythm Time Bailiff Bridge Community Centre, Brighouse 9.30am and 10.15am 14 months to three years Rebecca: 07938 752005

Babybeatz Rowley Poleys Indoor Play Centre and Cafe Bradford Road, Brighouse 9.30am-10am, £3 iper child which includes a free play in the gym afterwards Rebecca: 07722 517091

Babies

ildren’s Centre, Road School, Road, Sowerby

4

Most activities (those with the white background) are pay-per-session, possibly with a one-off joining fee. The shaded background indicates courses or activities where booking and payment, where applicable, is essential

Sling Swing Limelight Studios, Rastrick, Brighouse. Starts 1.30pm.

Fiona: 07740346457

Central Methodist Playgroup 9.30am-11am Central Methodist Church, Parsonage Lane, Brighouse lfreeman123@virginmedia.com

Tiny Treasures Baby Group Holywell Green Children’s Centre 1pm-2.30pm, no need to book.

Breastfeeding Peer Supporter in attendance.

01422 266197

Tiny Treasures Baby Group 1.30pm-3pm Field Lane Children’s Centre, Burnsall Road, Rastrick 01484 386621

Tiny Treasures 1.30pm-3pm Cliffe Hill Community Primary School, Lightcliffe Emma - 01422 202086

Mummy and Me 10.30am-11.30am The Salvation Army Community Church, 33 King Street, Brighouse 01484 713125

Tiny Me 1.30pm-3pm St Michaels & All Angels School bungalow, term time only £1.60 per family For more, contact Northowram Hub, Lydgate, Northowram 01422 434006

Go Bananas!

9.40am-11.40am The Bankfield Social Club, Elland 01422 251152

Rastrick Library Fun Time 10.15am-11.30am Story time at Rastrick Library, Crowtrees Lane 07710 366113

Big and Little Explorers 9am-11am, for families with children of pre-school age, £1.60 per family. Term time only.

Ash Green Children’s Centre, 1 Sunny Bank Road, Mixenden, Halifax HX2 8RX 01422 243941

, Bradford Road, £3.50 per child.

5am hurch Hall, Bradford use 0

apy Rastrick am @top2toetherapy.

ts Group

ook. hildren’s Centre, d, Rastrick 1

ures

s (£1.60 per family) ommunity Children’s pation Lane, X2 9RL 3

er Bonegate,

four years 1239206

Teenie Tennis Kids Tennis Kids 10am-10.45am Waring Green Community Centre, Brighouse info@teenietenniskids.com

Elland Parish Mother and Toddler Group 9.30am-11am All Saints Church, Savile Road, Elland 01422 258544

Messy Play Group New Road Children’s Centre Sowerby New Road School, Sowerby New Road, Sowerby Bridge 01422 317082 Groovy Movers Big Blue Frog, Halifax 10am-10.45am Baby Movers 0-12 months; 11am-11.45am Groovy Movers 1-4 years £4.50 includes free play in the play gym (pay as you go) Helen - 07747 803627

Groovy Moves 4 Tots Top2Toe Therapy Apex House, Rastrick 11am-11.45am Contact lynni@top2toetherapy. co.uk

Sign 4 Tots Top2Toe Therapy Apex House, Rastrick 12.15pm-1 Contact lynni@top2toetherapy. co.uk

Little Squigglers Church View Office Centre Ripponden nikki@littlesquigglers.co.uk

Buggy 4 Fitness SP Fitness Solutions 10am-11am The Stray, Hipperholme info@spfitnesssolutions.co.uk

Tiny Treasures 9.30am-11am No need to book.

Field Lane Children’s Centre, Burnsall Road, Rastrick 01484 386621

Messy Monkeys Holywell Green Children’s Centre 1pm-2.30pm No need to book, suitable for children aged 12 months or over.

For info contact 01422 266197

Baby Group Wellholme Park Children’s Centre, Brighouse.

10am-11.30am.

From birth until walking.

01484 714768

Busy Bees 1.30pm-3.30pm St Martin’s Church, Church Lane, Brighouse

Central Methodist Playgroup 9.30am-11am Central Methodist Church, Parsonage Lane, Brighouse lfreeman123@virginmedia.com

Parent Link Worker Drop In 9.30am-11.30am Elland Children’s Centre, Boxhall Road.

No need to book.

For more info, ring 01422 266197

Chat and Play Lower Valley Children’s Centres Northowram Hub 1.30pm-3pm 01422 434006

Little Squigglers Heywood United Reformed Church, Northowram nikki@littlesquigglers.co.uk

NOTE

SUNDAY

vangelical Church

All activities listed on these pages will require an adult to remain with the child at all times.

Some activities have limited places, some only run in term time and some may be cancelled at short notice.

We always advise ringing ahead before setting out to any activity and in some cases you need to telephone to book

11

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

MONDAY

out of school diary

12

Lightcliffe Cubs 6.45pm-8.15pm Brian - 01484 520122 Age 7+

Gymnastics Club 6pm-8pm Greetland Community Centre, Rochdale Road, Greetland Tim - 01422 311989 Age 5+

5th Elland (Greetland) Beavers 6.15pm-7.15pm St Thomas’s Church Hall, Greetland Howard - 01422 376032 6-8 years

5th Elland (Greetland) Cubs 6.45pm-8.15pm St Thomas’s Church Hall, Greetland Rose - 01422 371661 8-10 years

Freestyle Dancers Ring for times babyballet Dance Academy 25 Square Road, Halifax 08701 430063 7-9 years

Clifton Rangers JFC 6pm-7pm Training ground: Bradford Road, Bailiff Bridge, Brighouse Website http://www.pitchero. com/clubs/cliftonrangersyfc/

Bailiff Bridge Beavers 5.45pm-6.45pm Bailiff Bridge Community Centre

Bailiff Bridge Cubs 7pm-8.30pm Bailiff Bridge Community Centre

Brighouse Beavers 6pm-7pm Atlas Mill Road Scout Hut, Brighouse Linda - 01484 319329

Brighouse Cubs 7 pm-8.30pm Atlas Mill Road Scout Hut, Brighouse Linda - 01484 319329

Junboku Karate family class Unit 2a Bradford Road Brighouse HD6 4DJ 6pm-7.30pm First class is free 07761 973553

Little Samurais Junboku Karate Unit 2a Bradford Road Brighouse HD6 4DJ Ages 3-5 years, 4pm First class is free 07761 973553

Lightcliffe Beavers 6.15pm-7.15pm Brian - 01484 520122 Age 6-8 years

Junboku Karate Junboku Juniors 6-10 years Unit 2a Bradford Road Brighouse HD6 4DJ 6.30pm-7.30pm First class is free 07761 973553

Lightcliffe Scouts 7.15pm-9.15pm Brian - 01484 520122 Age 10 years+

Freestyle Dancers Ring for times babyballet Dance Academy 25 Square Road, Halifax 08701 430063 7-9 years

Southowram St Anne’s Cubs 6.30pm-7.40pm St Anne’s Sunday School, Southowram Gerry - 01484 722284

Southowram St Anne’s Scouts 8pm-9.15pm St Anne’s Sunday School, Southowram Gerry - 01484 722284

The Warrior Factory Denholme Gate Road Hipperholme Various classes for different age groups from 4.15pm onwards 01422 200388

Junboku Karate family class Unit 2a Bradford Road Brighouse HD6 4DJ 6.30pm-8pm First class is free 07761 973553

Little Samurais Junboku Karate Unit 2a Bradford Road Brighouse HD6 4DJ Ages 3-5 years, 4.15pm First class is free 07761 973553

Hove Edge Cubs Broad Oak Football Field, Hove Edge, Brighouse.

Please ring for times Chris - 07969 368510

Southowram St Anne’s Beavers 6.30pm-7.30pm St Anne’s Sunday School, Southowram Gerry - 01484 722284

Gymnastics Club 6pm-8pm Greetland Community Centre, Rochdale Road, Greetland Tim - 01422 311989 Age 5+

Freestyle Dancers Ring for times babyballet Dance Academy 25 Square Road, Halifax 08701 430063 7-9 years

Shotokan Karate Club 7.30pm-9.30pm Sowerby Bridge Youth and Community Centre, Foundry Street Peter - 07880 530514 7 years+

Junboku Karate family class Unit 2a Bradford Road Brighouse HD6 4DJ 6pm-7.30pm First class is free 07761 973553

Gymnastics Club 6pm-8pm Greetland Community Centre, Rochdale Road, Greetland Tim - 01422 311989 Age 5+

Mini Groovers Ring for times babyballet Dance Academy 25 Square Road, Halifax 08701 430063 4-6 years

Dance Arena Ballet and Stage School 3.45pm-9pm, Various classes.

Stainland Community Centre, Stainland Road, Stainland 01422 357678 3 years+

The Warrior Factory Denholme Gate Road Hipperholme Various classes for different age groups from 4.15pm onwards 01422 200388

Archery Club 4pm-5.30pm; 5.30pm-7pm CI Adventures, The Boiler House, Shaw Lodge Mills, Halifax 01422 410727

Action Kids 5.30pm-6.15pm Kidzville, Church Street, Greetland Heather - 07717 576160 4-7 years

Brighouse Explorers 7.45pm-9.30pm Central Methodist Church, Brighouse Fiona - 07827 669737

La Jolie Ronde Spanish after-school class, 4pm, ages four to 10 years, £4 per child.

Rowley Poleys Indoor Play Centre, Brighouse.

Kate 07957 526952

Freestyle Dancers Ring for times babyballet Dance Academy 25 Square Road, Halifax 08701 430063 7-9 years

Mini Groovers Ring for times babyballet Dance Academy 25 Square Road, Halifax 08701 430063 4-6 years

Junboku Karate family class Unit 2a Bradford Road Brighouse HD6 4DJ 1.15pm-2.45pm First class is free 07761 973553

Little Samurais Junboku Karate Unit 2a Bradford Road Brighouse HD6 4DJ Ages 3-5 years, 11am First class is free 07761 973553

Tap Dance 9.15am onwards Dance4All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax 01422 884634 5-10 years

Freestyle Dancers Ring for times babyballet Dance Academy 25 Square Road, Halifax 08701 430063 7-9 years

Dance Arena Ballet and Stage School 1.45pm-6.30pm (various classes) Stainland Community Centre, Stainland Road, Stainland 01422 357678 Age 5+

Halifax Sport Karate Noon-1pm Studio 1, Halifax Swimming Pool, Skircoat Road, Halifax Matthew - 07858 115031 5 years+

Charlie’s Little Growers 9.30am-10.30am; 11am-noon Gardening club based at Kershaw’s Garden Centre, Brighouse, held fortnightly.

01484 713435 5-11 years

Bricks 4 Kidz Saturday Builder Club Lego workshops held regularly at Kershaws Garden Centre, Halifax Road, Brighouse. See website for full details http://www.bricks4kidz. co.uk/calderdale-kirklees/

Kids’ Club 5pm-6pm St Peter’s Church, Sowerby The Rev Martine Crabtree 01422 832830

Brighouse Saturday Art Club 10.30am-12.30pm, fortnightly Smith Art Gallery, Halifax Road, Brighouse A variety of art and craft activities for eight- to 14-year-olds.

Ring Jeffrey on 01422 352334

Square Chapel Youth Theatre Every Saturday morning. Five to seven years 10am-11am (£4/£2 Passport To Leisure); eight to 12yrs 11am- 12.30pm (£5/£2.50 Passport To Leisure). Held in the auditorium with a fully sprung floor

and full theatre lighting, these popular classes introduce children to the magic of professional theatre.

To book a place or for more information call the Square Chapel box office on 01422 349422.

Ballet 4pm onwards 4.15pm onwards Dance4All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax 01422 884634 Age 5+

Mini Groovers Ring for times babyballet Dance Academy 25 Square Road, Halifax 08701 430063 4-6 years

Rastrick St John’s Scouts 8pm-9.30pm St John’s Church Hall, St John’s Road, Rastrick Terry - 01484 723794 10-14 years

Brighouse Traditional Karate Club 7pm-8pm Small Gymnasium, Brighouse High School, Finkl Street John 07970 198880 8 years+

Mini Groovers Ring for times babyballet Dance Academy 25 Square Road, Halifax 08701 430063 4-6 years

The Warrior Factory De holme Gate Road Hipperholme Various classes for different age groups from 4.15pm onwards 01422 200388

Adventure Club 4pm-5pm and 5.30pm-7pm CI Adventures, The Boiler House, Shaw Lodge Mills, Halifax 01422 410727

Sowerby Bridge Sport Karate 6.30pm-7.30pm; 7.30pm-9pm Sowerby Village Primary School Matthew - 07858 115031 Juniors and Seniors

Halifax Sport Karate 6.30pm-7.30pm 17a Mill House Works, Mill House Lane, Halifax Junior Class Matthew - 07858 115031

Street Surfing Club 4pm-5.30pm; 5.30pm-7pm CI Adventures, The Boiler House, Shaw Lodge Mills, Halifax 01422 410727

Combination Class 5.30pm onwards Dance4All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax 01422 884634 AGe 7 years+

7th Elland Beavers 6pm-7pm Southgate Methodist Church, 77 Saville Road, Elland Age 6-8 years

5th Elland Boys’ Brigade Southgate Christian Centre, Langdale Street Three sections from 6.15pm9.30pm, ring for details Colin - 01422 374562

Rastrick St John’s Beavers 6pm-7pm St John’s Church Hall, St John’s Road, Rastrick Terry - 01484 723794 6-8 years

Barrel of Monkeys Drama School 5.30pm-6.30pm Sophie Walker 01422 881497

Freestyle Dancers Ring for times babyballet Dance Academy 25 Square Road, Halifax 08701 430063 7-9 years

Mini Groovers Ring for times babyballet Dance Academy 25 Square Road, Halifax 08701 430063 4-6 years

Brighouse Traditional Karate Club 7pm-8pm Upper Gymnasium, Rastrick High School, Field Top Road John 07970 198880 8 years+

The Warrior Factory De holme Gate Road Hipperholme Various classes for different age groups from 4.15pm onwards 01422 200388

Gymnastics Club 6pm-8pm Brooksbank School, Victoria Road, Elland Tim - 01422 311989 Age 5+

American style Cheerleading Hipperholme and Lightcliffe School, Stoney Lane, Lightcliffe 3-5 years 4.45pm-5.30pm 6-11 years 5.00pm-630pm 12-19 years 5.30pm-7.00pm Siara - 07776 080817

The Warrior Factory Denholme Gate Road Hipperholme Various classes for different age groups from 4.15pm onwards 01422 200388

Brighouse Cubs 7.15pm-9.30pm Atlas Mill Road Scout Hut, Brighouse Linda - 01484 319329

Rugger Ratz 9.15am-10am Skircoat Moor, Savile Park, Halifax Ages 5-7 years Jode - 07875 233495

SUNDAY

Rastrick St John’s Cubs 6.30pm-8pm St John’s Church Hall, St John’s Road, Rastrick Terry - 01484 723794 8-10 years

Hove Edge Beavers Broad Oak Football Field, Hove Edge, Brighouse.

Please ring for times Chris - 07969 368510

Creative Dance 9.15am onwards Dance 4 All, The Old School, Carlton Terrace, Halifax 01422 884634 Age 5+

Hove Edge Scouts Broad Oak Football Field, Hove Edge, Brighouse.

Please ring for times Mark - 07774 400404

Boiler House Club 10am-noon CI Adventures, The Boiler House, Shaw Lodge Mills, Halifax 01422 410727

The Warrior Factory Denholme Gate Road Hipperholme Various classes for different age groups from 4.15pm onwards 01422 200388

13

out of school diary advertising feature

I

when it’s party time, we’re are spoiled for choice

n our day it was easy. You had a party at tea time on your birthday, you ate sandwiches off paper plates, played some games – during which at least half your guests were reduced to tears/violence – then everyone went home feeling sick and suffering from a severe sugar rush.

I remember being particularly impressed when a friend’s mum inserted forfeits between the sheets of newspaper for pass the parcel. And in turn being unimpressed when her big brother ‘gatecrashed’ and ate most of the cake, which in those days made up the entire contents of a party bag.

Now, however, we’re somewhat spoiled for choice. We’ve hosted or attended play gym parties, gone roller blading, been rock climbing and caving, hurtled down a dry ski slop for snow tubing and shot a good many friends with lasers.

À Ì `>Þ *>ÀÌÞ À

Ë£Îä

i iLÀ>Ìi Þ ÕÀ V `½Ã L } `>Þ >Ì ÕÀi >t UÊÊ >`ÃÊ vÊëiV > Ê ÕÀi >tÊiÝÌÀ>ÃÊ UÊÊ ViÊ vÊà ÝÊÌ i iÃÊ UÊÊ iÝ L iÊ«>V >}iÃ

ÜÜÜ°iÕÀi >° À}°Õ ä£{ÓÓ ÎÎääÈ 14

So where does the parent of the birthday boy or girl start? An interesting alternative comes courtesy of the Bricks4Kidz party package – all parents have to do is to choose the date, venue and what refreshments to serve.

Experienced staff bring along LEGO® bricks by the thousand and a themed programme that engages children between five and 15 – although they never say “no” to anybody older! They can even bring Duplo for the younger guests.

Co-owner Debbie Adamthwaite said: “We pride ourselves in offering activities for boys and girls – young and old, and it’s crucial that we cater for children for whom LEGO® isn’t necessarily their thing.”

A typical party involves games, activities, and building which can be built around a core theme. Popular themes include Minecraft, Star Wars, Superheroes, and a fairground – LEGO® isn’t just a “boy thing” and the company often caters for girl only parties!

“We’re often asked to consider something different and our programme team enjoy a challenge,” added Debbie “We’ve even organised one based on Top Gear!”

To help parents take the first steps, Bricks4Kidz has recently launched an enquiry website – www.brickparties.co.uk – which captures the initial information needed to check dates. There’s no obligation to book.

If you fancy a high octane option, then why not try a snow tubing party? There’s nothing like the thrill of whizzing down a huge slope at great speed with all your friends, followed by tucking into a delicious pizza or even a Sunday dinner afterwards.

Snow tubing parties at the Halifax Ski and Snowboard Centre start from just £8.50 per child – check out the website at www. snowtubinghalifax.co.uk for more.

The award-winning children’s museum Eureka! in Halifax is also a fantastic option. Enjoy two fun-packed hours of Eureka! play and celebration, including: n A 30-minute themed activity, run by one of the Enablers; n One hour to explore Eureka!; n A private party table, buffet and soft drinks; n Souvenirs for all of your guests; n A card and balloon for the birthday boy or girl.

Booking is easy. First choose your date – there are party slots available on Saturdays and Sundays, with start times of 11am or 2pm. Then choose a theme – these include pirates, safari, fairy tale, space, science or an arty party.

Finally, check out the optional extras – these range from places for additional children or grown-ups, party bags, thank you gifts for each guest, birthday cake or a present from our gift shop. You can even upgrade your party table decorations!

For more, email birthdays@eureka.org.uk, go to the website https://www.eureka.org.uk/whats-happening/birthday-partieshalifax/- or ring 01422 330069.

Fiona gets into the swing of a better work – life balance

g n i b u t w o sn parties

Sling Swing tutor Fiona Meleschko is enjoying a better work – life balance thanks to her change in career. Fiona (pictured) is mum to Áine, four, and nine-month-old Tadgh and has recently established Sling Swing classes in Brighouse to help mums bond with their babies while exercising and having fun.

When Áine was born Fiona was working as a teacher. While she enjoyed her job, she really wanted to stay at home with her baby but just could afford to give up work.

Work life balance became an issue and, after a change of work role then suffering a miscarriage, returning to work became very difficult.

“When I was lucky enough to become pregnant a third time, I was very much filled with anxiety and the stresses and demands of my job became a serious worry,” said Fiona. “As the end of maternity leave was looming, clinging on to and making the most of every last minute, I was searching for fun classes to do with Tadhg and came across Sling Swing.

It looked amazing! I loved the closeness and bonding that comes with carrying Tadhg in the sling, I loved dancing and meeting new mummies – perfect!”

The nearest class was in York – but the Calderdale Franchise was available. “It is a huge leap of faith and is a scary one but one that I’m embracing and loving,” said Fiona.

The classes are an exciting, gentle movement and dance class for mums and dads or carers with their babies and toddlers in soft, structured, high quality slings and baby carriers or wraps. Spares are always available at the classes for people wanting to try one out. The aim is to have fun in a friendly, musical environment and to really bond with your baby.

Classes take place at 1.30pm each Monday at the Limelight Studios in Rastrick; Lightcliffe Club on a Thursday from 11.30am; plus others in Halifax and Sowerby Bridge. The cost is £20 for five classes – £5 per class with the first one free.

Ring 07740346457 or email fiona@slinswing. co.uk; Facebook: Sling Swing Calderdale.

15

education

exciting new chapter as crime writing winner is revealed

T

alented young writers at Hipperholme Grammar School were rewarded for their efforts at a prizegiving ceremony.

The winner of this year’s RC Bridgestock crime writing competition was Harrison Layden-Fritz, for his story The Mace Mystery.

Scallymag editor Kate Wobschall presented the prizes for the competition, which is sponsored by celebrated crime writers Bob and Carol Bridgestock.

The competition began last year,

I

WRITE STUFF: Scallymag editor Kate Wobsch Coe and Jayvian Mavi. BELOW: Bob and Caro

The Mace Mystery

t was a cold evening in the Capital. As the working day was coming to an end, large dark fluffy clouds rolled in over the Thames, like a subservient herd of tired grey sheep. Their collective form dominating the impressive cityscape. Corralled together by a cold north westerly wind, they formed a dense blanket, that descended upon the city, suffocating the light.

In the busy streets below, commuters left their offices to embark upon the long journey home, towards the sanctuary of the loyal dog, the energetic children, or just the solitude of an inviting warm bed.

On one particular street, adjacent to Parliament Square, a white van was parked, engine off, all occupants silent, representing a stationary beacon in a maelstrom of activity.

At first glance the van was nondescript.

However, appearances can be deceptive. For contained within its belly, were five individuals of highly dubious character.

16

when the couple, who write under the name RC Bridgestock, held a full-day workshop at the school to give children an insight into how detectives work and which culminated in a crime-writing competition.

Carol said: “‘It’s a passion of ours to try to encourage others to read and write, and this is a great opportunity for us to encourage the pupils of Hipperholme Grammar, entertaining and educating them regarding awareness and consequences of crime.”

Runners-up were Lea Coe and Jayvian Mavi.

These wolves had been operating as a pack for almost 20 years and whilst their specific identities were unknown to the authorities, the police were convinced that together, they were responsible for some of the biggest crimes in Britain.

Catching and proving their guilt, had always been the most difficult, for the Wolves were very cunning.

They planned everything meticulously and left nothing to chance. With almost military discipline and clinical execution, they completed there activities so efficiently, that they were well away from the scene before any alarms were raised.

It would not be an understatement to proclaim that for the past 20 years, these wolves had been the biggest thorns in the side of the metropolitan police.

The plan was simple, the objective was audacious, but the prize was magnificent.

The plan was to park a van with a hole cut in the floor, over a manhole cover.

Once removed, this manhole would lead down into an underground drainage system.

With stealth navigation, this system would lead the devious pack, underneath the Palace of Westminster.

With essential cutting equipment,

By

access could then be made through the tunnel ceiling and up through the floor, where the wolves would find themselves alone and free to roam in the main chamber of the House of Commons.

But the wolves were not there to debate. They were there for one thing and one thing only; the Ceremonial Mace. Made in London in 1667, this prize of silver coating, is 24 carat gold, weighing 17lbs and carries the monogram CR, for the then Monarch, Charles II. Its value would be beyond comprehension when delivered to the insidious clutches of the black market.

Whilst looking magnificent however, the other role of the Ceremonial Mace is to represent the authority of the Sovereign, Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Parliament cannot lawfully meet without the Mace, as it represents royal authority present within their chambers.

Without the Mace, there is no Parliament and without parliament, the country would descend into anarchy. A heinous crime indeed.

And so it began, with one parked van.

The wolves quickly gained access to the tunnel and using cutting equipment hid within the van, they found themselves

Successful students making waves

hall presents the RC Bridgestock Trophy to Harrison Layden-Fritz, with runners-up Lea ol Bridgestock visited the school last summer to deliver a crime writing workshop.

y Harrison Layden-Fritz efficiently inside the main chamber of the House of Commons.

Hungry and focused, they kept their eye on the prize and after coveting their prey, they made a stealthy and expeditious retreat.

Execution was perfect and within 20 minutes, the wolves had returned once again, to the sanctuary of the innocuously parked van. In complete silence, the cover was replaced and the vehicle calmly drove away, melting quickly into the commuting malaise....

I

t was not long before the pin came out of the grenade and wall-to-wall media coverage of the crime, on 24-hour news channels, dominated the airwaves.

Who? How? and Why? were the soundbites of the day. Everyone agreed that this was such an

audacious crime.

As desperate hours turned into frustrating days, the nations patience began to wane and frustration and anger at the lack of police progress started to rise.

With the absence of any visible parliament or cohesive leadership, the ship appeared rudderless and lawlessness started to raise its head.

Riots in the streets and violence and looting became widespread.

Police forces were mobilised and national security threats were raised, as the fabric of law and order started to unravel. Soon the original crime that started the mayhem became lost in the narrative, replaced with a greater and more scandalous injustice.... the inability of a nations government to protect its people.

Possibly the greatest crime of all.

The wolves remained silent.

Harrison LaydenFritz

From the left: Charles Kershaw, Myles Stirk and Lia Brehmer relax after claiming medals at a national swimming contest.

P

upils from Hipperholme Grammar School have enjoyed success representing the region as part of a national swimming competition.

Senior school students Lia Brehmer, Charles Kershaw and Myles Stirk joined the Independent Schools Association (ISA) North swimming team at the Olympic Pool in London to take home a variety of medals.

Myles, 16, took home a gold medal in the 100 metre backstroke as well as setting a new national record time. He was also part of the individual medley team alongside three other ISA North swimmers who won gold and broke the national record for the event.

Thirteen-year-old Charles was awarded a bronze medal in the 100 metre breaststroke, and also scooped a second bronze as part of the individual medley relay team.

Lia also beat her personal best in the 50 metre butterfly event.

Headteacher Jack Williams commented: “We’re committed to nurturing every student’s unique individuality and promoting self-esteem, and extra-curricular activities such as these are a great way of ensuring that we do just that.

“I’m extremely proud of the hard work and effort that Myles, Lia and Charles put in to take home some fantastic medals.”

17

education

I

exams? it’s good to talk

t is only natural for parents to want the best examination results for their children.

However, for children to do well in their exams they have to be able to write clearly, succinctly and at speed in the highly pressurised environment of the examination hall.

For all children this is tough, yet for some getting their thoughts down on paper seems an almost insurmountable barrier to success. Therefore, it is important to improve writing by getting right back to basics and working on how your child talks.

Good talking means good thinking and good thinking means good writing. All three together mean good communication skills which are essential not just for exam success but for success at work and developing happy, healthy personal relationships.

The evidence for taking this approach is compelling. Evidence from the Communication Trust, a coalition of over 50 organisations with expertise in speech, language and communication, tells us: n In the UK, over 1 million children and young people – that’s two to three in every UK classroom – have some form of long term and persistent speech, language and communication difficulty. This can affect them early, severely and for life; n In the areas of poverty, over 50 per cent of children are starting school with delayed communication skills. Their speech may be unclear, vocabulary is smaller, sentences are shorter and they are able to understand only simple instructions.

The knock-on effect of poor speech and language skills are catastrophic. n Between 50 and 90 per cent of children with persistent speech, language and communication difficulties go on to have reading difficulties; n At the end of Key Stage 4, the ‘attainment gap’ between children with communication difficulties and their peers is marked. Just 15 per cent of children with communication difficulties achieve 5 GCSE A*-C or equivalent compared with 56 per cent

18

Your springtime brain teaser: Can you solve the puzzle? The answer will be revealed in the next issue!

of all young people.

It’s easy to feel weighed down by such gloomy analysis, yet the good news is that many of these children can catch up with the right support.

The even better news is that putting good communication skills at the heart of everyday activities helps every child regardless of whether or not they have speech and language difficulties.

Neil Mercer, Professor of Education at Cambridge University, points us towards Vygotsky’s theories on ‘interthinking’ arguing that the development of language and cognition are bound up with the students being given the chance to engage in ‘exploratory talk’ with their peers.

Exploratory talk, in which… n Everyone listens actively; n People ask questions; n People share relevant information; n Ideas may be challenged; n Reasons are given for challenges; n Contributions build on what has gone before; n Everyone is encouraged to contribute; n Ideas and opinions treated with respect; n There is an atmosphere of trust; n There is a sense of shared purpose; n The group seeks agreement for joint decisions.

Hopefully, these arguments will encourage and inspire you as parents to put into practice strategies which ensures your child enjoys rich opportunities to practise and improve their communication skills.

Manoj Mistry

Mistry Maths – Masters of 11+ and GCSE maths www.kingofexams.co.uk

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views convenient, fast and let your true colours shine cost-effective can’t exactly remember risk” or excluded children to enable computer them to build the skills and confidence the subject material of to re-join the school system. support the famous Abba song

Professional coach and our new columnist Adrian Wales discovers a fun and effective way for teachers and pupils to develop a better understanding

I

Knowing Me, Knowing You, but it’s a title that perfectly describes the “aha” moment that can come when we understand and appreciate the differences in personality we all have.

Nowhere is this more important than in schools, where students have to contend with a bewildering variety of people at all ages, from all backgrounds, as well as try to understand themselves and their own needs, values, stressors and behaviour patterns through the various stages of their development.

Of course, consecutive governments have driven different initiatives and agendas for education in an attempt to promote emotional health and wellbeing, with the “Citizenship” learning curriculum focusing on the importance of embracing diversity and dealing with conflict and, just last year, the latest “character education” announcement, which aimed to help students develop a set of solid character traits, including resilience, confidence, tolerance and respect.

Recently, a number of local headteachers have introduced a personality profiling system called True Colors® into their schools. Originating in the United States in 1978, True Colors® was originally created for “at

However, it now has a more universal appeal and today it provides a fun, effective and interactive way for both teachers and students to develop an understanding and appreciation of themselves and those around them.

True Colors® provides amazing insights into individuals’ strengths and talents which can help them make the best life and career choices.

As well as increasing self-esteem, self-belief and the ability to work with others, it is also being used very effectively as a resource to overcome issues such as anti-social behaviour and bullying. It provides students with an understanding that it’s okay to be who they are and that they don’t need to be like everyone else.

It also helps them to develop an appreciation of their fellow students and teachers, especially those who stand out as different from them.

All young people have a right to develop their unique skills and talents so that they are able to live life fully, develop emotional intelligence and make a positive contribution to society, both now and in the future.

Using a personality profiling tool such as True Colors® can be a unique, easy and sustainable way to achieve this.

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Adrian Wales

Director, LPD Associates Ltd adrian@lpda.co.uk

Learn, perform, develop Adrian Wales is a director of local company LPD Associates Ltd. Adrian has worked extensively, mainly in the public sector, in leading, coaching and developing teams, both locally and nationally, for over 25 years.

LPD (Learn, Perform, Develop) provide learning and development solutions to schools, including teachers, support staff and students, helping to promote a culture of high performance within an understanding and cooperative environment. To find out more feel free to call Adrian on 07415 153423 or email adrian@lpda.co.uk

Read more of Adrian’s blogs on our website!

Go to www.thescallymag.co.uk/brighouse

19

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