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Parent talk

Clubs & Classes Schools Events Reviews Essential reading for parents and grandparents in Somerset

May 2017 Volume 24 Issue 5

WIN

a Puddle Jumper ★ Tickets to Sherborne Castle Country Fair ★ Tickets to the Brewhouse

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RESIDENTIAL EDUCATION

ilve ourtoutdoor learning

outdoor activities Date 12th - 14th May 13th May HALF TERM 2nd - 4th June

Course Title

Year Group

Cost

Woodland Survival

7-8

£120

Wheels Activity Day - 9am – 5pm

7 -11

£30

Junior Outdoor Sports Skills

4-6

£160

Cost

Outdoor Activity Days for ages 6 - 16. 9am – 5pm

per day

29th May - 2nd June

Activity Day Courses (Half Term)

£30

24th - 28th July

Summer Activity Day Courses

£30

31st July - 4th August

Summer Activity Day Courses

£30

7th - 11th August

Summer Activity Day Courses

£30

14th - 18th August

Summer Activity Day Courses

£30

21st - 25th August

Summer Activity Day Courses

£30

Residential Activity Weeks for ages 8 - 16

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Tel: 01278 741270

Email: KilveCourt@somerset.gov.uk

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per week

29th May - 2nd June

Residential Activity Week (Half Term)

£260

24th - 28th July

Summer Residential Activity Week

£260

31st July - 4th August

Summer Residential Activity Week

£260

7th - 11th August

Summer Residential Activity Week

£260

14th - 18th August

Summer Residential Activity Week

£260

21st - 25th August

Summer Residential Activity Week

£260

www.kilvecourt.co.uk Kilve Court Residential Education Centres, Kilve, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA5 1EA.

Cost

CMYK / .eps

@KilveCourt

Parent talk contents Family pages

p2-3

Out & About

p4-8

Book Bag

p9 -12

Education, information

p13

Book Review

p18 -19

Classified

p19

competitions Three Half Pints

p7

Puddle Jumper

p11

Sherborne Castle Country Fair

p12

Dear Readers...

Welcome back and I hope you enjoyed the beautiful weather we had across Easter. This month, we’re hoping the sun will continue to shine for both the Devon County Show and Sherborne Castle Country Fair. If you haven’t been to either of them, they’re well worth a visit and make a great day out for all the family. We even have the chance to win tickets to one of them so read on for more details. Once again, we have a fantastic selection of books, see p18 with a great range of titles for toddlers through to early teens.

Happy reading!

Tamsin

Parent Talk

Newtons, Churchstanton, Taunton TA3 7QF T: 01823 601086 E: sales@parenttalk.org.uk Disclaimer: The editorial and advertising content of this publication does not imply endorsement of them by Parent Talk. Nor can Parent Talk be held responsible for any actions or consequences arising from contact between reader and advertiser.

Readers are therefore advised to check carefully, any references, professional qualifications and stated membership of professional bodies before entering into contracts or making arrangements to use a service featured herein.

Editor Tamsin Humphreys Advertising Juliet Barber Production Sarah Harmer June deadline 24th May 2017 To guarantee receiving your copy of Parent Talk every month why not take out a subscription for just £17 a year and it will be sent to your door?

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COMPETITION WINNERS Sundome Joy Whitelock, Cossington

Devon County Show Amanda Bowery, Stoke St Gregory Mrs Julie Smith, Isle Abbotts Simon Tutthill, Evercreech

FAMILYFAMILY PAGES

Sherborne Castle Country Fair & Rare Breeds Show Bank Holiday Monday 29 May 2017 The Fair is open from 10am to 6pm and car parking is free The Fair welcomes Dorset Police Dogs The Dorset Police Dog Section will be taking to the ring this year for the inaugural Dorset Police Dog Demonstration at Sherborne Castle Country Fair. The show committee are delighted that this section of the police has chosen their event to enable the public to meet their dogs.

The demonstration is designed for members of the public to gain a better appreciation of the police force’s work within the community – particularly the work of the canine officers, to entertain and educate the public.

The German shepherd is an instantly recognisable breed; it is suited perfectly to the wide range of duties the job requires.

They can be deployed to track people, hunt down and detain suspects and locate lost or stolen property.

A variety of demonstrations will take place, using four of the force's highly trained German Shepherd working police dogs, including mock chases to apprehend criminals and numerous other disciplines.

The two demonstrations will be featured in the Main Ring at the Fair.

The Police will have a stand on the showground so the public can meet the dogs and their handlers and ask about any other aspects of training and duties the dogs undertake.

Sherborne Castle Country Fair held annually in the

The new family holiday revolution A top au pair agency is leading a revolution in the holiday market by providing European au pairs to help UK families make the most of the summer.

Traditionally au pairs usually stay for six months to a year, but with summer just around the corner British families are queuing up to find short-stay au pairs for just 10 to 12 weeks, say agency Perfect Au Pair.

Perfect Au Pair was founded by two mothers who had used au pairs but did not feel they were getting a cost-effective and reliable service from existing providers. Now they have linked up with partners around Europe to provide a more family friendly solution.

Perfect Au Pair’s Kate Bayliss said: “The big change this year is that there is a massive demand for au pairs just for the summer and we are working with our partners in Europe to provide as many au pairs as we can, though we promise that each will still be thoroughly vetted before they come to the UK. “Demand at the moment has never been higher. And we will be doing our best to help

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families to find the right au pair for them.”

Au pairs can be male or female, usually between 18 and 25, and they come to the UK to learn English. They receive spending money between £75 and £95 per week, depending how many hours they work. Au pairs do light housework and look after the children.

The concept of an au pair for summer is relatively new, but families find them invaluable support during the school holidays when parents can still be working. Additionally they can be a big help if they are part of the family holiday.

“That is also good fun for the au pair and a whole different experience. Travelling is a winwin for the au pair and a family.

It’s one of the reasons why there is a boom area at the moment,” added Ms Bayliss.

“Our partners who provide our au pairs from countries across Europe are telling us we have a lot of high class au pairs who are looking for families for a shorter period.”

For more information go to www.perfectaupair.co.uk

fun-filled day out for all ages including spectacular lakeside Dragon Boat Racing, Circus, Gundog Retriever Trials in the Deer Park, Dog Shows, Scurries and Main Ring Events.

Disabled visitors can access all areas, enjoy forward parking and disabled facilities around the Fair Find us Post code: DT9 5NR

magnificent grounds of Sherborne Castle, is one of the most popular events in the area presenting a rich programme of events, country activities, stands and entertainment including one of the best Rare Breed Shows in the country. For one day in early summer each year, one of the country's finest settings is transformed into a

ENTRANCE PRICES 2017 Adult £12.00 Children (aged 5-14) £4.00 Family Ticket £29.00* *Admits two adults & three fee-paying children FREE Under 5 years Tickets purchased in advance via the website, Sherborne TIC and our Hotline give 15% discount www.sherbornecountryfair.com

Sherborne Castle Country Fair & Rare Breeds Show

29TH MAY 2017

BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 10AM - 6PM

Organised & run by volunteers to raise funds for West Country Children’s Charities

TICKETS & INFORMATION

01749 813 899 ADULT £12 CHILD £4 FAMILY £29 15% discount when purchased in advance FREE PARKING

SherborneCastle CountryFair

www.sherbornecountryfair.com Parent Talk May 2017 3

OUT & ABOUT

Whitsun Family Talking Animals The Royal Bath & West Show Fun at the Palace!

This May Half Term, don’t miss a range of entertaining and educational activities taking place for families at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells.

Kicking off on 29th May (Bank Holiday Monday) with a ‘Nature Ninjas’ activity day in the Community Garden, children will be encouraged to try their hand at pond dipping, minibeast hunting, seed sowing and following a specially designed garden trail!

On Friday 2nd June, it’s Family Fun Friday and the theme is “Creepy Crawlies”. Take the

little ones along to the Stable Yard Room for creative crafting of Wiggly Spiders, Wriggly Caterpillars and Funny Frogs.

When they’ve finished their artistic creations, they can let off steam in the Gardens by following the new Creepy Crawly Trail!

If that hasn’t tired everyone out, then it’s time to visit the Dragon’s Lair play area where kids can let their imagination run wild and explore the themes of the Palace in the most fun way!

All activities are included with the standard admission ticket.

half term FAMIILY FUN! 'nature ninjas' Seeds, beasts and ponds!

29th May OPEN DAILY

new 'creepy crawly' family trail!

Under 5's Free

family fun Friday 'creepy crawlies' 2nd june

The Bishop’s Palace, Wells BA5 2PD 01749 988111 www.bishopspalace.org.uk

YOU JUST GOTTA

WADDLE

www.livingcoasts.org.uk 01803 202470 4 Parent Talk May 2017

Paignton Zoo and Living Coasts are fun places to visit – and you can learn lots of amazing facts about animals when you’re there.

Both zoos have talks and presentations on most days.

For example, at Living Coasts, Torquay’s coastal zoo, you can start with Penguin Breakfast at 10.30, then go on to puffins, otters, seals, stingrays and octopus. It’s hard to know when to have your own lunch! There are more talks in the afternoon.

At Paignton Zoo, the talk schedule runs every day until the end of autumn half term (29th October). Some talks are by keepers, others by presenters from the Education team. They are all fun,

informative and give you a real insight into life in the Zoo. Paignton Zoo opens at 10.00, which gives you plenty of time to get to Baboon Rock for 10.45, when you can join the baboons for breakfast – but don’t expect them to share! Later there are talks about Crocodile Swamp, pelicans, tigers, elephant and gorillas.

There are extra talks at weekends and during school holidays on species like lemurs and giraffes. You can find out some amazing facts – for example, that giraffes have tongues as long as your forearm, or that adult male Yoda’s feet are the size of a dinner plate and in the wild he could kill a lion with a kick.

Living Coasts and Paignton Zoo are the perfect mix of fun and discovery. For times and details of talks, go to the websites, www.paigntonzoo.org.uk and www.livingcoasts.org.uk and look out for signs on site.

Celebrate the very best of Great British Agriculture, Entertainment, Food and Drink at the Royal Bath & West Show 2017!

Taking place at the Bath & West Showground from 31 May to 3 June, England’s Royal Four Day Show offers visitors an array of attractions from world class livestock to live music, and the very best of British Food & Drink.

High quality competition runs through every section of the Show including The British Cheese Awards, British Cider Championships, Showjumping and International Sheep Shearing. 2017 sees the debut of a host of new livestock classes, an enhanced Team Challenge Competition and the all new equine area in which over 1,000 horses will compete for the iconic Blue Rosette. While

the Main Ring plays host to a UK agricultural show exclusive, the Diggerland JCB Stunt team will thrill visitors with their high octane, dare devil performances.

The popular Farming for the Family area is getting a revamp this year, with more handson exhibits to help visitors to get fully involved in all aspects of agriculture from sheep to machinery. Tractor Ted will be attending the show, with stories, a Digger Den and tractor-driving making learning fun for the children.

600+ exhibitors offer an unrivalled shopping experience with the likes of Jaguar, Volvo, Joules and Loakes Footwear offering their latest products.

Whether you Compete, Exhibit or Visit, the Royal Bath & West Show will be an exceptional experience!

Two Children go FREE with advance adult tickets, head to www.bathandwest.com to buy yours!

OOBEE DOO I WAN NA BE LIKE

YOUUUU www.paigntonzoo.org.uk 01803 697500

ENGLAND’S ROYAL 4 DAY SHOW WWW.BATHANDWEST.COM

31 MAY - 3 JUNE 2017 TWO CHILDREN GO FREE WITH ADVANCE ADULT TICKETS

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OUT & ABOUT

Summer Holidays at Kilve Court Summer fun at Mill on the Brue Summer holidays fly by, but memories made at Kilve Court last a lifetime. Make sure your children or grandchildren remember this year’s summer by booking them onto a course at the beautiful Kilve Court.

Kilve Court has over 50 years of experience running courses - you may well have been to Kilve yourself or have treated your own children before; the great thing about the summer holidays is anyone aged 6 - 16 gets to come back! If new to Kilve, experience it for the first time and make new friends like you’ve known them for years.

From Monday 24th July until Friday 25th August 2017, a whole host of day and

residential courses are running, with each one tailored to meet the needs of the children attending.

Dartmoor pony image © Malcolm Snelgrove

Dartmoor ponies teach Devon teens to take on Ten Tors

Following last year’s successful pilot of a new category for the Ten Tors Jubilee Challenge, called ‘Fresh Tracks’ – when 16 young people with a range of challenging life issues successfully led three Dartmoor ponies across the Moor – this year will see more students and an additional school involved.

On Saturday 6th May 2017, 18 Devon teenagers will walk together in three teams over 14 miles. The three ponies are DPHT (Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust) adoption and education ponies: George, Rolo and Smartie.

Through training for, and then achieving, a demanding trek across some of the toughest terrain on Dartmoor, leading Dartmoor ponies as their ‘platform for learning’, Fresh Tracks gives these teenagers an opportunity for personal development and self-achievement, and to build confidence and life skills, in an environment that would otherwise be unlikely to be available to them.

Students have undergone 10 weeks of intensive training to build their handling skills with ponies, walking safely in the Moorland environment, navigation, first aid and teamwork. They are supported by trained pony handlers, moorland guides, first aiders and their own schools’ support staff, as well as members of the DPHT Volunteer Team.

Fresh Tracks has been created, coordinated and delivered by the Dartmoor

Pony Heritage Trust as part of its ‘Ponies Inspiring People’ equine assisted learning programmes.

Says Dru Butterfield, in charge of Fresh Tracks for DPHT: “Delivering Fresh Tracks is an amazing team effort.

The schools have made huge commitments to bringing their students to training sessions, including weekend walks; the students and their families/ carers have shown incredible determination and enthusiasm – we cannot praise them highly enough; and we simply could not do this without our volunteer guides and support team members.

“Above all we know that the ponies make a real difference to whether our students succeed or not. Typically stoic and gentle, but also tough and resilient, Dartmoor ponies seem to be able to share these attributes with the students and undoubtedly motivate them to succeed.”

The primary aims of the DPHT are to preserve the Dartmoor pony on Dartmoor – a breed now on the ‘endangered breed’ list – and to promote its temperament, so encouraging people to buy them as all round family ponies and for conservation grazing.

For further information about its work to preserve the Dartmoor pony on Dartmoor, and its ‘Ponies Inspiring People’ programmes, including ‘Fresh Tracks’, please see our website – www.dpht.co.uk; or email admin@dpht.co.uk or call 01626 833234.

Courses vary from week to week: activity courses running every weekday throughout the holidays as well as Science,

ICT, English and Creative Writing courses that are likely to get passionate learners even more enthused. Back by popular demand is Kilve’s annual Build a Musical course.

Starting from scratch, a full blown theatrical performance is produced in just 6 days and is guaranteed to take your breath away.

If the summer seems too far away, book now for courses running over the weekends and half term holidays to get a taste of what’s on offer - call our team on 01278 741270 to find out more.

Please check our website www.kilvecourt.co.uk

A great family day out!

The summer holidays are starting to creep up on us.

Have you planned the six to eight weeks your kids have off from school so it doesn’t become a marathon or worse?

Many parents think of Mill on the Brue Outdoor Activity Centre for either a residential week of summer camp or daily from 8.30am until 5.30pm Monday to Friday. There are so many activities (all outside!) that we would be very surprised if they said they were bored or hadn’t enjoyed themselves when you collected them.

Everything from adrenaline busting huge long zip wires, high ropes, and tower jump to pizza making in a clay oven, canoeing, climbing wall, giant water slide,

assault course, animals, archery, the list is endless. We have over 40 exciting, challenging and fun activities, tasks and games so there is something for everyone.

And absolutely no mobile phones, computers or tv!

We’re now in our 35th year and think we really know what kids like. If it’s a residential stay, the camps start on Sundays and finish on Saturdays with a small prize giving with the parents. The children are grouped according to age (from 8 – 15) with the activities planned accordingly and 2 instructors stay with their group all week. Day camps are 7 – 12 years and are themed throughout the week. We even have ‘mini Mobster’ mornings for 5 & 6 year olds.

For more information visit www.millonthebrue.co.uk, email info@millonthebrue.co.uk or ring 01749 812307 – we’d love to welcome your kids this summer!

Head to the Devon County Show on May 18-20 at Westpoint, Exeter to enjoy a fun-filled family day out.

There will be lots to see and do from meeting amazing animals to being wowed by all the big-ring action.

The Show’s animals will come in all shapes and sizes from great brown bulls to miniature dogs, braying donkeys to squeaking guinea pigs, lofty alpacas to muscular ponies and stripy honeybees to cooing pigeons.

At the Children’s Farm (Farm Wise), youngsters will find out where their food comes from and can have a go at making it - there will be apple pressing, bread baking and seed planting, as well as a chance to watch a cow being milked..

In the main arena, watch two monster trucks jump 15 feet into the air over the top of old bangers and see two of these huge machines hold a tug of war and see if they can pull a caravan in two (Friday and Saturday only).

For bike fans there will be the thrill of watching BMX stunt bike shows and then having-

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a-go. The bikes, helmets and pads will be provided and an experienced professional will provide top BMX tips.

To help guide families around the showground there is a great new Mole Avon Wheelie Wild Wheelbarrow trail - youngsters should look out for the 12 decorated wheelbarrows where there will be special children’s activities.

And children go free on Saturday (two with every paying adult)! Save money and buy in advance online and from selected outlets www. devoncountyshow.co.uk Don’t miss: ● Titan the Robot (Friday & Saturday) ● Working sheepdogs in action ● Fairground fun ● The Army’s display with a Challenger tank and climbing wall ● Demonstrations of traditional crafts ● Flower & garden junior competitions ● Horse shoeing and metalwork crafting ● Falcons and ferret racing ● Historic steam engines and vintage vehicles

This is my year!

Summer camp

s!

Day & residential

01749 812 307 Bruton, Somerset BA10 0BA www.millonthebrue.co.uk

Parent Talk May 2017 5

OUT &Talk ABOUT 6 Parent December 2012

Enjoy your garden at Willowbrook With the sun shining brightly every day, now is the time to get out into the garden!

At Willowbrook Nursery and Garden Centre we have a range of plants including alpines, heathers, herbs, clematis and not forgetting the trees, shrubs, conifers, climbers and roses.

The Café & Tea-rooms are open all day for either a relaxing drink in the sun or maybe a ‘cheeky’ cream tea?

We also have a new look pet shop and our Aquatic shop is now in a new building with a wide range of everything Aquatic. We are open seven days a week and can be found situated between Taunton and Wellington on the A38. Don’t forget our Click & Collect service at www. willowbrook gardencentre.

co.uk where you can pick your gardening products that you need and then collect them either the next day or even the same day – aimed to save you time so that you can get out and enjoy your garden!

Fun day out for all the family Entertain the children with the West Somerset Railway.

The West Somerset Railway is a heritage railway offering a fun day out for all the family. Nestled in the Somerset Countryside, 4 miles outside the county town of Taunton, our trains depart from Bishops Lydeard to the seaside town of Minehead. 9 idyllic stations are situated along the line, which include, the historic harbour town of Watchet with its harbour, small shops, cafes, pubs, museums and beaches to keep you busy. The medieval village of Dunster, is home to The National Trust’s Dunster Castle, also an old Yarn Market

CHASE & MARSHALL 3rd june 2017

PAWSOME ADVENTURES!

6 Parent Talk May 2017

about people, which I believe contributed to people selfharming or just feeling negative about themselves.”

A 15-year-old girl who reviewed IMVU said: “There are some people on the site who are very unstable and vulnerable who are taken advantage of.”

Net Aware is the go to guide for parents of the most popular social media sites, apps, and games used by young people, keeping them up to date with the latest reviews, news, and warnings relating to their child’s online world. O2 Guru tips are included, which shows parents exactly how to help their child block or report someone who is targeting them.

Pokemon Go, Periscope, IMVU, and Live.ly are amongst the new apps to be featured on Net Aware, along with the more well-known sites including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter.

To inform the guide, the NSPCC consulted 1,696 children and young people and 674 parents and guardians.

Despite the risks that many children reported, 87 per cent (1,470) of young people asked said they knew how to keep themselves safe online. The NSPCC and O2 encouraged parents to visit Net Aware so that they could stay up to speed with apps and their safety issues so that they could help their child protect themselves online.

NSPCC CEO Peter Wanless said: “Social media is a great way for young people to stay in touch with their friends but our research clearly shows that children do not feel that they are shielded from upsetting, dangerous, and adult content.

It’s vital parents know about their child’s online world and regularly talk with their children about how to get help if they need it.

“We all know that the internet develops at breakneck speed and it can feel nearly impossible to keep up with all of the constantly changing sites, games, and apps that young people use. Net Aware does all the work for parents

by updating them with information, risks, and issues on sites their children are using.

“Rather than trying to work out which app is trending or hearing second hand about which site poses a risk, parents can turn to the Net Aware hub for all the information, support, and advice they need to help keep their children safe online.”

Nina Bibby, Chief Marketing Officer at O2, said: “Young people today are a generation of digital natives and, whilst many of them have grown up knowing how to use the many different websites, apps and games on offer, it can often prove more daunting for their parents to keep up with them.

The Net Aware guide helps parents and guardians get up to speed, giving them the knowledge and advice they need to help their kids stay safe online. Technology provides a world of opportunities, and at O2 we want to make it as easy as possible for parents to help their children safely make the most of all it has to offer.”

Happy Birthday Puxton Park!

COME AND SEE

CHASE AND MARSHALL ARE COMING TO THE wEST SOMERSET RAILWAY WHERE THEY WILL BE MAKING APPEARANCES AT INTERVALS THROUGHOUT THE DAY AT MINEHEAD STATION. TRAIN TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE! visit www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk or phone 01643 704996

For more information about the railway and what we have to offer please visit our website www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk or contact us on 01643 704996

Children warn social media sites are failing to shield them from inappropriate and dangerous content Four out of five children feel that social media companies aren’t doing enough to protect them from pornography, self-harm, bullying, and hatred on their sites, NSPCC and O2 research has found.

Out of the 1,696 children and young people surveyed 1,380 said social media sites needed to do more to protect them from inappropriate or harmful content.

The findings are revealed in the latest Net Aware guide, the UK’s only parents’ guide to 39 of the most popular social media sites, apps, and games used by young people, produced by the NSPCC in partnership with O2.

When polled children rated ASKfm, Omegle, IMVU, and Facebook as some of the most risky sites, prompting the NSPCC and O2 to urge parents to look beyond the “big names” and find out about the lesser known apps their children are using.

A girl, aged 16, who reviewed ASKfm, said: “It had no strict controls which led to lots of hurtful messages being spread

© 2017 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved.

building which is flanked on either side by shops, tea rooms, Dunster Museum and doll Museum.

On 3rd June PAW Patrol’s Chase and Marshall will be making appearances on Minehead station at intervals throughout the day. There will be lots of entertainment on the platform too including a Helter Skelter and bouncy castle, Facepainting, an entertainer and crafts.

We also have a further meet and greet day later on in the year, with a visit from Peppa Pig on 16th September. See her at intervals throughout the day on Minehead Platform.

Puxton Park turns ten this year, and to celebrate we are having a Big Birthday Bash.

Join us on the 15th and 16th of July for a weekend of fabulous fun, food and music.

Over the whole weekend there’ll be a 50-foot assault course, bouncy castle and inflatable disco to boing about in. Get the kids moving and even have a go yourself!

Crocs R Us and their team of reptiles join us on the Saturday for a first-hand experience with crocodiles, alligators and other reptiles – do you dare come along and see? Then on Sunday we have the Mangledwurzels joining us. The Mangledwurzels

are a three-piece Scrumpy & Western band based in Somerset celebrating the works of the Bard of Avonmouth, Adge Cutler and The Wurzels. More than just a Wurzels tribute band, The

Mangledwurzels play Wurzels songs, old and new, blended with self-penned titles and pop standards 'Mangled' in true Wurzels tradition. And of course, there’s going to be cake…

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OUT & ABOUT

A Go-Kart Party– great fun for boys and girls If you are looking for a party that is really different, exciting, great fun and hassle free then look no further than Go-Kart Party.

Nathan and his team offer both boys and girls of 4 -10 years a unique opportunity to race battery powered go-karts around an inflatable mini Grand Prix circuit.

The parties are fully hosted and structured and fun games such as cops and robbers, cone dodging, reversing and emergency stopping will give the children an experience they will never forget.

Kart speeds and games are tailored to the age and ability of the children so whether they are aged 4 or 10 the kids will have an amazing time and will feel a real sense of achievement when they pick up their certificate and possibly the GoKart Party Best Driver trophy at the end of the party!

Available indoors in numerous leisure centres and sports halls across Somerset, or even outside at your home, GoKart Party is accessible all year round at a venue near you.

You can check out the fantastic feedback Nathan receives from parents on www.facebook.com/GoKartPartySW and for more information contact Nathan on 07703 719 402, nathan@go-kartparty.co.uk or visit www.gokartpartysw.co.uk

Call Nathan on: 07703 719 402

www.gokartpartysw.co.uk nathan@go-kartparty.co.uk facebook.com/GoKartPartySW TA postcodes only

Children encouraged to start planting pumpkin seeds CHILDREN from Somerset are being encouraged by a garden centre in the county to start thinking about planting pumpkin seeds this month in preparation of the spookiest month of the year.

Experts at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre say now is the time to start planting pumpkin seeds and they are offering free advice on how to do so to youngsters.

Andrew Pitman, Store Manager of the award-winning, independent, family-run garden centre at Monkton Heathfield near Taunton, said: “If any children want to grow their own pumpkins ready for carving this Halloween then they need to start planting their pumpkin seeds now.

“Pumpkins are relatively easy to grow and they come in lots of amazing shapes, colours and sizes. Seeds can be sown in pots inside or in a greenhouse now and can be planted outside later in the month. Here are our top tips for children wanting to plant up some pumpkin seeds: ● Fill small pots with compost and make a hole in each to a depth of 2cm ● Place a pumpkin seed on its side in each hole and cover with more compost ● Place a mini cloche over the

(From left to right) Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre’s Seasonal Plant Supervisor, Jane Earthy and Plant Advisor, Sharon Michieli, with some pumpkin seeds

seedlings or if you don’t have one, ask an adult to help you cut a large plastic drinks bottle to put over the seedlings ● At the end of May transplant the young plants into a weed free space and keep protected with cloches ● Keep your pumpkins wellwatered and protect the plants from slugs and snails ● The pumpkins should be ready for harvesting in the run up to

Halloween in October.

“Once the pumpkins are harvested they can be used for carving at Halloween and their insides make the perfect pie, which little ones can help cook.

“We hope lots of youngsters have a go at growing their own pumpkins this year. We have a range of pumpkin seeds available in-store and our expert staff are always on-hand to help any keen young gardeners.”

For more information, please call the garden centre, which is located just off the A38 at Monkton Heathfield between Bridgwater and Taunton, on 01823 412381, visit www.monktonelmgardencentre.co.uk, log on to www.facebook.com/Monktonelm or follow the company on Twitter by visiting www.twitter.com/Monktonelm.

COMPETITION

Win tickets to see

Three Half Pints in The Three Musketeers Perfect for families with children aged 5+.

“EXUBERANT SLAPSTICK SILLINESS AND GREAT FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY… THE FUNNIEST THING I’VE EVER SEEN!” ★★★★★ Mumsnet Fresh from Justin’s House and Spot Bots, join the CBeebies’ favourites as they swashbuckle their way across the UK in a hilarious new slapstick adventure of chivalry, swordplay and suddenly falling over.

The seventeenth century has never been so silly!

The Brewhouse, Taunton on Monday 29th May

“HIGH JINKS COME THICK AND FAST…HILARITY TO THE POINT OF EXHAUSTION” The Stage

Parent Talk have one pair of tickets to give away. For your chance to win, answer the question below and visit www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter by the closing date of 17th May.

In which century is the play set? a) Seventeenth century b) Fifth century c) Nineteenth century follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

Parent Talk May 2017 7

8 Parent Talk December 2012

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. M A R K E T S . T H E AT R E S . FA I R S . F E T E S . S H O W S . E X H I B I T I O N S .

4th May – 15th June: Pop-up Worlds. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. ‘Pop-Up Worlds’ is a secret, magical experience for two people at a time. Using immersive audio soundscapes, lovingly crafted pop-up books and collected mementos, the show invites you to explore the world of each character, guiding you on an evocative journey through time. Pre-booking not required. Come along between 10am-1pm and 2-5pm. Age: 7+.

01225 823409 12th – 14th May: The Girl and the Giraffe. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. One day whilst Girl is playing in her garden, she spots something peculiar on the other side of the fence. Climbing up as high as she can to get a better view, she is surprised when she comes face to face with…

Giraffe! As their friendship grows, Girl discovers that Giraffe isn’t very well. She tries everything she can to make him feel a bit better; putting on bandages, making a cup of tea, and even baking a truly magnificent cake, but she doesn’t get it quite right. Charming puppetry, an enchanting soundscape and beautiful storytelling combine in this sensitive show about wellbeing and friendship, told from a child’s perspective.

Fri: 10.30am & 1pm, Sat-Sun: 11.30am & 3pm. Age: 3+.

01225 823409 12th-13th May: The Tiger Who Came to Tea. The playhouse, Weston super Mare. BS23 1HP A musical play adapted and directed by David Wood, based on the book by Judith Kerr Direct from a SmashHit West End season. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see at the door is a big, stripy tiger!

Following a smash-hit West End season, the tea-guzzling tiger is back on the road in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-along songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem...

Expect to be surprised! Fri: 1.30 & 4.30pm, Sat: 11am & 2pm.

01934 645544 13th May: Shouty Arthur. PrePrep Building Monkton Pre-Prep, Combe Down, Bath BA2 7ET. Join Jackie and Pooja for Dinkies Storytime as they bring Shouty Arthur to life. Shouty Arthur is the LOUDEST and MOST SHOUTIEST boy alive. He wants to go wildlife watching with his sister Edith but can’t understand why the animals are nowhere to be seen… 2pm & 3.15pm. Age: 18 months -4 years. 01225 823409 18th May: Dinkies Storytime Adventures. Pre-Prep Building Monkton Pre-Prep, Combe Down, Bath BA2 7ET. Come and 8 Parent Talk May 2017

play with Dragonbird Theatre as Lotte and Tilly provide another morning of performance fun.

This show is going to make you very hungry! Age: 18 months – 4 years. 01225 823409 19th-20th May: Horrible Histories: The best of Barmy Britain. The Playhouse, Weston super Mare. BS23 1HP. We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage featuring all your favourite characters from Britain’s barmy past! It’s the history of Britain with the nasty bits left in! Fri: 1pm & 7pm, Sat: 11am & 2pm. 01934 645544 20th – 21st May: Super Mega Rockin Rock Show. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. Kid Carpet will guide you through everything you need to know to be able to rock out big time.

Even if it’s your first gig! Join in with stories, games and songs.

Play ping pong, help catch a lost sandwich and take part in a grand dance contest. This lively, interactive and entertaining show contains a unique mix of live music, performance, comedy, animation and ping pong balls.

Age: 3-8 years. 01225 823409 21st May: Cinderella. The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil, BA20 1UX. Presented by Prima Productions. Talented dancers from across the South West and other regions come together to perform the magical ballet of Cinderella. 6pm. 01935 422884 21st May: Kilve Court Family Day, Kilve, TA5 1EA. Archery, grass sledging, maze, willow sculpting, circus skills and more 10am-4pm. 01278 741270 21st May: St Margaret’s Hospice Colour Run, Wincanton racecourse. BA9 8BJ Registration at 11am, run begins at 1pm, BA9 8BJ. While participants run, walk, skip, hop or even dance their way around the 5k course, an army of volunteers will be taking aim and throwing brightly coloured powdered paint, making the kilometres race by!

Once the race is over, you’ll get to celebrate your achievement with a massive paint party and you’ll receive a brilliant goody bag. 01823 365609 24th – 28th May: Happily Ever After. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. The Queen is growing impatient. Her lazy son will never be King until he grows up, gets married and starts acting like one. She invites hundreds of princesses from across the land, hoping to find the perfect bride for the prince, but he isn’t impressed by any of them.

Then one day a princess arrives accompanied by her brother…

Age: 5+. Wed – Fri: 10am & 1pm, Sat-Sun: 11.30am & 3pm 01225 823409 27th May: Sid’s Show. The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil, BA20 1UX. Following on from the

Vintage Bus Day The 5th Vintage Bus Day will feature a display of classic vehicles on Sunday 14th May at Castle Green and the adjacent bus station, right in the heart of Taunton.

An interactive day for all the family with free bus rides around the area on buses of yesteryear. Bus services start at 10:30 and run right through to 16:30.

There will be frequent services to the West Somerset Railway at Bishops Lydeard, and to the nearby town of Wellington, calling at Sheppy’s Cider on the way. Single deckers and coaches will take

routes into the surrounding hills and countryside. Use the shorter town service to visit the open day at the Buses of Somerset Hamilton Road bus garage; if the weather is right the open top buses will be out on this route!

A programme and timetable will be available for purchase on the day and there will also be stalls selling books, models and other memorabilia.

The Museum of Somerset will be open on the day and is hosting the Tramway & Light Railway Society’s working model tram layouts.

For further details, visit website on www.tauntonrunningday.wordpress.com and follow Facebook https://www.facebook.com/vintagebusdaytaunton

success of Sid’s Show venture into an underwater world via a fish tank to discover what a mermaid is doing with Sid’s tv remote control, who has her pearls and whether Sid can make friends with a dangerous shark or not! This hugely exciting, colourful underwater adventure bubbles over with sea creatures, songs, stalagmites, stalactites and wave after wave of educational interaction. Sid has produced a fantastic treat for families with children aged 3. 11am & 2pm.

01935 422884 27th May: The Tap Dancing Mermaid. The Brewhouse, TA1 1JL. It’s time to hear the Moon’s story, one you will NEVER forget… Gather round for the Moon’s magical story about a tippetty-top tap dancer who he has been watching at night.

Marina Skippett creeps out of her house every night to shuffle and stomp on the boardwalk to the sounds of the sea. She can’t tap dance at home any more since her evil Aunty banned it.

But then, one moonlit night, Marina meets a mysterious, watery boy swimming in the sea and her life is never the same again! 11.30am.

01823 283244 29th May: Three Half Pints: The Three Musketeers.

The Brewhouse, TA1 1JL. The seventeenth century has never been so silly! Chaos, mayhem and stupidity reign supreme as children’s comedy trio the Three Half Pints swish their swords, buff their boots and flourish their feathers in their most ridiculous adventure yet! Perfect for families with children aged 5 plus. 01823 283244 31st May – 2nd June: Mrs McMoon. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. Age: 6+. Meet Mrs McMoon: chaotic, fanciful, cheeky and

mischievous. She loves a good audience and likes nothing better than to look each of you in the eye and say ‘what screwball thing shall we get up to next?’ Mrs McMoon is preparing the show that’s going to put her name in lights.

She has to make the costumes, paint the set, learn her lines and blow the bubbles. But after all this mayhem and belly-aching laughter, will Mrs McMoon become a superstar?

31st May – 3rd June: Gangsta Granny. Bristol Hippodrome, BS1 4UZ. It’s Friday night and Ben knows that means only one thing – staying with Granny! There will be cabbage soup, cabbage pie and cabbage cake and Ben knows one thing for sure – it’s going to be sooooooooo boring!

But what Ben doesn’t know is that Granny has a secret – and Friday nights are about to get more exciting than he could ever imagine, as he embarks on the adventure of a lifetime with his very own Gangsta Granny! Wed 7pm, Thurs-Fri 2pm &7pm, Sat 10.30am & 2.30pm 0844 871 7627 31st May – 3rd June: Barnum.

Strode Theatre, Street, BA16 0AB Produced by the South West School of Dance. Follow the dreams of P.T Barnum in his bid to become America's biggest showman as he lights up America with the colour, warmth and excitement of his imagination!

Incorporating impressive circus skills, exciting acrobatics and the dance & musical talents of these brilliant young people, this promises to be a show to remember! Wed-Fri 7pm, Sat 2pm & 7pm. Tickets £15, Seniors £14, Children 16 & under £12.50 available from Strode Box Office www.strodetheatre.org.uk 01458 442846

Contact us: sam@bodleycraft.co.uk www.bodleycraft.co.uk or follow us on Facebook

Archway Project receives £250,000 from Clore Duffield Foundation The Archway Project at the Roman Baths has received a grant of £250,000 from the Clore Duffield Foundation.

This is a major milestone in the £5m Archway Project because there are now enough funds to commence work.

The new Roman Baths learning centre will be called the Clore Learning Centre.

Situated above the former Spa laundry in Swallow Street, the new facilities will increase the space dedicated to education at the Roman Baths by 400%.

Two new Clore learning spaces will enable the Roman Baths to develop formal and informal learning programmes, engaging a wide range of communities and audiences.

The Clore Learning Centre will be connected to the Roman Baths by an undercroft that passes through Roman remains beneath York Street. An underground Investigation Zone will provide hands-on access to Roman remains through facilitated learning sessions.

The new learning centre will give more school children a higher standard of facilities, and enable the Roman Baths to reach out to a wider variety of young people locally and regionally with a range of new learning experiences.

The Roman Baths Foundation is a charitable company set up

to raise funds for conservation and education work at the Roman Baths. Raising funds for the Archway Project is its first flagship project.

David Beeton, Chairman of the Roman Baths Foundation, said: “The Foundation is delighted that its efforts to raise funding for a state-of-the-art learning centre for the Roman Baths has been supported so enthusiastically by the Clore Duffield Foundation.”

The Clore Duffield Foundation said: “We are delighted to be supporting a Clore Learning Centre within such an impressive World Heritage Site, and one which offers such outstanding learning opportunities for schools. To have state-of-theart learning spaces combined with hands-on access to underground Roman remains will create something really special for young visitors, and for learners of all ages.”

The Clore Learning Centre is the largest element in a project that also includes a World Heritage Centre, and access to Roman remains beneath York Street that have never before been on public display.

Fundraising for the Archway Project continues. There are various ways to support the project, including sponsoring a virtual tile and adopting a Roman stone.

www.romanbaths.co.uk/sponsor-tile www.romanbaths.co.uk/adopt-roman-stone For more information visit www.romanbaths.co.uk/archway-project

Craft Studio Holiday Clubs for 6+

A fabulous craft studio, minutes from Wellington town with ample parking

Birthday Parties for any age Various Workshops throughout the year For more information and to book contact: sam@bodleycraft.co.uk or www.bodleycraft.co.uk

follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

welcome to your NEWS n EWS sectio Nbringing you competitions, job tasters, boredom busters, interesting facts and everything topical...

Book Bag

26 May, 1703 Samuel Pepys dies Why is Samuel Pepys so famous

Who was Samuel Pepys?

Samuel Pepys (you say PEEPS) lived more than 300 years ago. He worked for the British government, and did much to make the Royal Navy better.

However, he is famous because he wrote a diary.

When did he live?

Pepys was born in 1633. He was a young man during the Civil War in England. He lived through two disasters - the Plague and the Great Fire of London. He died in 1703.

Why is his diary famous?

Pepys started his diary in 1660. He went on writing it until 1669. It's full of information, because Pepys was interested in everything around him. He wrote about London, his home, his wife, his friends, about great events such as the Great Fire, and about himself.

The young Samuel

Where was Pepys born?

Samuel Pepys was born in London in February 1633. His father was a tailor, who had moved to the city from the country to find work. His mother was a butcher's daughter. The Pepys family was not rich.

However, Pepys did have rich relatives, and that helped him later.

Going to school Young Samuel went to St Paul's School, one of the best schools in London. When he was 17, he went to Cambridge University. While a student there, he got into trouble for drinking too much!

Marriage and illness In 1655, Samuel married. His wife Elizabeth was only 15. Her family had come to England from France, as refugees.

In 1658, Samuel had an operation on his bladder. It was dangerous, and painful. He was thankful to get well again.

Troubled times Pepys grew up in troubled times. There was a Civil War between King and Parliament. In 1649 King Charles I had his head cut off. For a few years, Oliver Cromwell ruled England. From 1660 there was a King again, this time Charles II. An office job Pepys went to work as a clerk in a government office. He was lucky to have a rich relative, the Earl of Sandwich, who was an admiral. Having a lord in the family helped him get a good job!

thing at that time. Pepys wrote in his diary that he kept taking his watch out to check the time and to show off. He was so pleased with it!

A country visitor One day Pepys had a visitor from the country. Pepys wanted to show his friend the sights. But the visitor only complained. London was too crowded! Too noisy! Too far to walk!

He would not go to the theatre, even in a coach.

Pepys wrote crossly that he had never met anyone 'so little curious in the world...'

Pepys'adventures

What happened to Pepys?

Home life At first Samuel and Elizabeth were quite poor. Elizabeth did the washing and carried coal for the fire. Later when Samuel was well-paid, they had servants to do the housework.

The civil servant Pepys was a civil servant. His job was to run the Navy - to make sure old ships were repaired, and new ships built properly. At first he was lazy, more interested in having fun!

Sometimes Pepys went to sea himself. In 1660, Pepys sailed in one of the ships that brought King Charles II back to England.

Running the Navy The Navy was in a mess. Many ships were too rotten to go to sea and fight. Pepys saw this, and made up his mind to change things. He worked hard. He went to dockyards to see how ships were built. He learned all about the Navy. He even learned his times tables!

The Navy had only 30 battleships. When Pepys stopped work in 1689, it had 59 ships.

The diary In January 1660 Pepys started his diary. He wrote in shorthand. It was like a secret code. He wrote with quills and a simple fountain pen.

Pepys did not want people he knew to read his diary, so he kept his diary books safe.

A new watch In his diary, Pepys often tells us how he felt.

He was proud of a new watch. It had an alarm, a new

The Diary stops In 1669, Pepys' wife Elizabeth died. They had no children.

Pepys stopped writing his diary in 1669. His eyesight was now so poor and he feared he might go blind.

Pepys makes enemies In 1673, Pepys became a Member of Parliament.

His work made him enemies - such as people who had cheated the Navy. His enemies accused Pepys of selling secrets to the French, and plotting against the King! For a time, Pepys was locked up in the Tower of London.

Back at work Luckily, King Charles II liked Pepys. Pepys was set free. The King sent him on a mission to North Africa.

In 1684, Pepys got his old job back.

He went on working for the Navy until 1689. He was now a famous man with famous friends, such as the scientist Sir Isaac Newton and the architect Sir Christopher Wren (who built St Paul's Cathedral).

What happened to the diaries?

Pepys spent his last years quietly, adding books to his library. He left all his books to Cambridge University.

Samuel Pepys died in Clapham in 1703. His diaries were decoded long after his death, and published in 1825. Today they can be found on the internet.

for more information please visit http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/primaryhistory/famouspeople/samuel_pepys/

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bringing youthe world events, job tasters, busters, interesting facts and everything topical...

Who’s odd one out?

Is it aboredom bird, is it a rabbit?

Who could it be? Visit our website to see!

2009: INTERNATIONAL 2009

YEAR OF ASTRONOMY As you know from our March issue, 2009 has been chosen as the international year of Astronomy (IYA) with 140 countries taking part in celebrations around the world. There is even an International Year of Astronomy commemorative coin: the ¤25 with Galileo on it.

Picture of sphere: Science Museum/Jaron Chubb planets: © olena | Dreamstime.com

Why choose 2009 for the IYA? 2009 has been chosen because 400 years ago Galileo used a simple telescope to challenge the thinking of the day.

He studied the moon in a great deal of detail and then was the first to notice that the planet Jupiter had four moons. Because the moons went around Jupiter, he wrote to some other scientists saying that the earth and all the other planets might well go round the sun. This got him into serious trouble with the Church who said that the Earth was the centre of the Universe and that the Sun must go round the Earth.1 His theory, although deeply worrying for many and difficult to understand after centuries of a

What do you get when you cross Earth-centred aAn giraffe with a hedgehog? universe.

A six-foot toothbrush.

Detail of an armillary sphere illustrating the Ptolemaic view of the solar system, Germany, 16th century.

What happened What happened in May? in

May

1st May 1840 1st adhesive postage stamps "Penny Blacks" issued.

1st May 1939

First Batman comics

1st May 1952

Mr Potato head

published

introduced!

1. This view was known as the Ptolemaic view of the universe.

Ptolemy was a Greek astronomer in the 2nd century AD. Galileo Galilei was born in Italy in 1564 and many call him the father of modern science. The eldest of six children and son of a musician, he was also a polymath. 2 2. polymath = someone who is very knowledgeable about many things eg. maths, music, philosophy, art, science and languages. It comes from the Greek ‘poly’ - which means many ‘manthanein’ means to learn. In other words, a person who has learned much!

What is a hedgehog's favourite flavour of crisps?

Prickled Onion!

Interested in astronomy?

Visit the Science Museum, London this summer and go to their new exhibition Cosmos & Culture: how astronomy has shaped our world 23 July 2009 - end 2010 This exhibition traces 400 years of telescope technologies, explores our changing What do you get if you cross perceptions of our place in the cosmos, and examines the role astronomy has played in our a crocodile with a flower? everyday lives.

I don't know, but I'm notObjects going on display include Thomas Harriot's drawings of the Moon, Jupiter's to smell satellites it! and sunspots; the telescope William Herschel used to discover Uranus; a detector seeking the mysterious dark matter that makes up most of our Universe; and an amateur telescope made of bean cans, car parts and coat hangers.

1st May 1967

8th May 1980

3rd May 1979 Margaret Thatcher becomes the first woman prime minister of Great Britain.

9th May 1932

6th May 1851

10th May 1908

Elvis Presley weds Priscilla Beaulieu

Dr John Gorries patents a "refrigeration machine"

7th May 1936

different belief, nevertheless started a scientific revolution.

Jockey Ralph Neves unexpedectedly revived after being declared dead after a fall. His wife fainted when he returned to the race track.

World Health Organisation announced Small Pox had been eradicated

Piccadilly Circus, London - first street lit by electricity 1st Mother's Day observed

17th May 1985 Les Anderson, catches record 97lb 4oz chinook salmon, off Alaska.

19th May 1885

Tan Matzeliger begins first mass production of shoes

20th May 1830

fountain pen

16 May 1920

Spanish bullfighter Joselito is fatally gored fighting his last bull

24th May 1986

17th May 1980

25th May 1986

Kumar Anandan balanced on one foot for 33 hours

D Hyde patents the

Reginal Huffstetler trod water for 985 hours

95 year old woman scores a hole-in-one in golf in Florida, USA

BookforBag Book Bag News Book Bag News more News information please visit www.wildlifewatch.org.uk

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Butterflies Wordsearch A L N R Q O W A L S B T L G

P G A T E K E E P E R Y I E

T E P R R E D A D M I R A L

G X L I W E U L E A C O Y A E V G T F D D E O R Z U W B F P E H O S Y C T H V N M S T O A D H R T W O L R I N Q

R B C N S E R R I K N P L L

R I N O K R L A U N N G C E E T W I T P E E O M A W T C

N G L E T M M O C K J W B U C I A Y G X J L D E O T L A T I Y B L P O O R D Y F Q O E Z C W W T G O F N N Z M B V I S M S M A X A V U P O K

Trees Wordsearch F H E U T S W H Z F O U B O

I I D T A R I O U S F C V I

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S A H L C P L G V H B S C R

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E M E R Y I A H P L O B A B A P R G I B D Y H T G F C E

I L R S P W D U M P A F L I O A L H R E K E N U D S E B

A X T H W E I L D P N E L A E G W C M O G K R Q K C P V L I A V J T W E E A P A C T

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V L J E F A P P L O I Z O R

Enjoy safe family fun in the water with a Sevylor® Puddle Jumper®

The Puddle Jumper is a revolutionary swimming aid designed for little swimmers.

Made of a sturdy and durable construction, this ultra-comfortable and non-chaff device promotes natural movement and encourages safe water exploration.

Forget fighting with arm bands or inflatables at the water’s edge, designed for children between 15-30kg, the Puddle Jumper vests are incredibly easy for parents to put on and take off, but with the safe and secure clip at the back, difficult for the child to remove. This feature reduces the risk of unaided water submersion and promotes piece-of-mind. No more struggling with a child at the water’s edge, simply fasten the single, adjustable buckle and jump in!

Available in a number of fun designs, the bright and cheerful Puddle Jumper is not only appealing for the kids, but also acts as a visual safety aid for the parents.

Underneath the Puddle Jumper’s exciting exterior lies a solid construction made from durable and resilient materials. Offering the same level of buoyancy as a lifejacket, Puddle Jumpers also have an innovative, self-balancing design that helps to keep your child safe and stable in the water.

For more information on The Puddle Jumpers visit, http://www.sevylor-europe.com/uk/c-30puddle-jumper-swimming-aids.aspx Parent Talk have one pirate and two fairy Puddle Jumpers to give away. For your chance to win, rearrange the words below and visit www.parenttalk.org.uk by the closing date of 24 May 2017.

DPDUEL MJPURES

Book Bag NEWS Can you spot the 5 differences between these two pictures?

Visist www.parenttalk.org.uk to see if you are right.

WIN Tickets!

Sherborne Castle Country Fair Rare Breeds Show

Bank Holiday Monday May 29 2017

The Fair is open from 10am to 6pm and car parking is free

Just for children‌‌.. Mums, Dads and Grandparents!

C H I L D R E N

an you climb a wall or juggle, walk on stilts, spin a plate in the air? Visit Circus big top to have a go! ave you ever seen a tarantula, been on a helterskelter, tried Lazer Clay shooting or tried Archery?

nterested in Rare Breed bulls & heavy horses to chicks! You can see lots of them at the fair. ike ice-cream? Maybe not! Perhaps delicious cakes or biscuits! o you like old cars and farm vehicles, seen a dog herding ducks? idden a donkey, seen a miniature donkey, driven a mini Landrover, seen Dragon Boats Racing?

njoy dogs, competing, police dogs doing what they do best, retrieving from water or saving swimmers? ever done some of these activities, then come to the Fair!

Parent Talk have 3 family tickets to give away. For your chance to win, answer the question below and visit www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter by the closing date of 17th May 2017.

WHAT DATE IS SHERBORNE CASTLE COUNTRY FAIR? For more information or purchase advance tickets now and save 15%: Hotline 01749 813 899 www.sherbornecountryfair.com

Join the dots and colour in the tractor

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Taunton Preparatory School rated 'Excellent' in all areas by inspectors!

Taunton Preparatory School is celebrating after receiving an outstanding Inspection report across the board from its Nursery through to Year 8.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), equivalent to Ofsted in the state sector, judged Taunton Preparatory School as “Excellent” in the quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements and “Excellent” in pupils’ personal development the two areas the new inspection framework focusses on. Excellent is the highest rating available. The Inspectors also judged the Senior School (Years 9-13) as “Good” and “Excellent” respectively.

Taunton School received just 24 hours’ notice before the arrival of 18 inspectors for the rigorous three day whole school inspection in March.

In the Prep School, the Inspection report stated that pupils’ attainment is often well above national age-related expectations. It reports that pupils’ progress rapidly and states:

“All groups of pupils demonstrate exemplary attitudes to learning.”

It continues that pupils are “highly motivated to learn and succeed” and “exhibit great delight in finding out more”.

Inspectors also found that pupils demonstrate outstanding self-confidence, exhibit notably strong moral understanding and are extremely respectful towards others.

Inspectors noted that: “Pupils’ exemplary attitudes towards learning are nourished by the teachers’ substantial expectations of them, and due to leaders and governors successfully embedding the school’s ethos.”

They observed that “The EYFS outcomes in 2016 were above national age-related expectations” and “Pupils including boarders and Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) children progress rapidly from their starting points”.

Inspectors commended the school because “Children in the EYFS exhibit outstanding levels of self-confidence due to their extremely strong emotional attachments with staff”.

Lee Glaser, Headmaster, said: “This is an extremely good report across the board.

“I would encourage every

Thinking of returning to work after children?

Helen Lacey from Red Berry Recruitment gives some tips on how to prepare Not being a mum myself I have no idea what it would be like to juggle children, running a home and then deciding to take the plunge to go back to work but I can give a few tips on how you can prepare!

By law, your employer has to leave the position that you have left to go on maternity for, available for you to return to. However, if you are unable to return to this role, then they need to offer you something of equivalent role, salary and hours, if they can or accommodate your request where possible. Sadly, it is not always possible for the employer to do this and often leads to returning parents having to look for another job.

The challenge I hear for many returning mums (and dads!) is the lack of confidence when going back to the work place whether, that be after a 6 month maternity leave or even many years. Firstly, I would say that if returning to your old company, then maybe see if they can ease you in slowly. Procedures and staff may have changed, so maybe use a couple of Keep in Touch days to get back into the flow.

With regards to returning mums (and dads) after a longer

period of time or even more so looking for a new role, the first thing I would suggest is make sure you have an up to date CV and please make sure you put all those great transferable skills you have as a parent on there: Budgeting, multitasking, negotiating, time management, patience….. as I said, not having kids myself I can’t imagine what it’s like but I have plenty of friends who do and these are skills I see in abundance!

Also, remember that you have skills that businesses want. Even if a little rusty, with a bit of guidance and training you will soon pick things up again; after all, as they say most things if not done for a while and then resumed is like riding a bike: you never forget!

If you have friends that can help interview you to give you the practice then even better but if not, I would suggest you look at websites about interview tips and guidance, questions to ask and questions you might be asked.

As we are in a candidate driven market (i.e. candidates

are in demand), you might find that businesses are more flexible in their requirements, so even if a role says 39 hours and you can offer 35 or 30 I still would suggest you apply as you never know, they might say yes!

On our website we have some hints and tips on interviews and on you tube we have a number of short videos that might be able to help with C V writing, presentation skills and interview prep.

Good Luck!

Helen Lacey is Managing Director of Red Berry Recruitment with branches in Yeovil, Bridgwater and Shepton Mallet www.redberryrecruitment.co.uk

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parent to read Inspection reports when choosing a school as they are the only real independent and objective comparison tool available.”

“We are very excited about this latest accolade, following two excellent independent reviews by The Good Schools Guide.”

All independent school inspection reports are available to view on the ISI website, www. isi.net/reports/ To arrange a personal visit contact the Prep School on 01823 703303 or email TPSadmissions@tauntonschool.co.uk.

Top chef at Tops Day Nurseries Multi-Michelin-starred chef Jean-Christophe Novelli has recently visited Tops Day Nurseries to deliver a special cookery class and shared healthy eating tips with chefs within the family of 17 day nurseries.

Tops Day Nurseries were contacted by the Novelli Academy for more information about the low sugar menus the nurseries provide to help tackle the obesity crisis. An assistant for ‘the nation’s favourite French chef’ spotted the story on the news and informed Jean-Christophe of Tops Day Nurseries new menus.

Jean-Christophe showed a keen interest in learning more about the project lead by Tops Day Nurseries, particularly with his own passion for ensuring dishes are created in a health conscious manner. Chefs from Tops Day Nurseries were invited to watch a demonstration lead

by Jean-Christophe showing how quick and easy meals could be incorporated into the new low sugar menus.

Diane Wycherley, Senior Area Manager at Tops Day Nurseries commented “We are extremely proud that our new menus attracted the attention of JeanChristophe Novelli, and we feel privileged that he attended the chef’s forum to present new ideas and recipes for us to use within our nurseries.”

Jean-Christophe commented “It is wonderful to see that Tops Day Nurseries are as keen as I am to help our children and their parents understand nutrition from this important age of their development, I only wished more schools were this conscientious.”

Tops Day Nurseries plan to continue to work with JeanChristophe as well as parents, to demonstrate the importance of a healthy diet both in childcare and at home.

Tops Day Nurseries is a friendly active family of nurseries based across Dorset, Hampshire and Somerset.

Why choose Tops: 17 day nurseries Open from 6am-8pm*, Monday to Friday, 52 weeks of the year Available booking to the nearest 15 minutes, so you only book the hours you need Holiday clubs offering activities for children from the age of 5 2, 3 and 4 year old funding available *subject to demand

To find out more, visit our website or find us on Facebook.

www.topsdaynurseries.co.uk Parent Talk May 2017 13

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

150 minutes of exercise a It's a Girl's week could boost life span World by more than three years

● A survey of 6,600 people over 12 months found that sedentary people who increased activity levels to 150 minutes a week (21 minutes a day) - currently the government recommended level, saw life expectancy increase of 3.1 years ● People who increased their activity levels to 90 minutes saw an increase of almost three years (2.7 years) and exercising

just 60 minutes a week saw an increase of more than two years (2.4 years) ● The research was calculated through analysis of each individual’s ‘Vitality Age’, an aggregate measure of wellness that evaluates the gap between physical body age and actual age. By surveying members before and after they made changes to their everyday

everyday behaviour, the data pinpointed the impact of behaviour on life expectancy ● A survey of 6,600 people over 12 months found that sedentary people who increased activity levels to 150 minutes a week (21 minutes a day) - currently the government recommended level, saw life expectancy increase of 3.1 years ● People who increased their activity levels to 90 minutes saw an increase of almost three years (2.7 years) and exercising just 60 minutes a week saw an increase of more than two years (2.4 years) ● The research was calculated through analysis of each individual’s ‘Vitality Age’, an aggregate measure of wellness that evaluates the gap between physical body age and actual age. By surveying members before and after they made changes to their everyday behaviour, the data pinpointed the impact of behaviour on life expectancy ● Further research found the main barriers preventing people from taking part in sport or exercise include time

constraints (31%), the expense (21%) and people not enjoying it (19%) ● Vitality’s ‘Everyday Athlete’ campaign aims to inspire the nation to make small changes to realise lasting health improvement, whether it’s getting off the bus a stop early, walking up the stairs rather than taking the lift, or walking the dog for an extra 10 minutes a day.

Vitality Ambassador Jessica Ennis-Hill said: “I am delighted to support the Everyday Athlete campaign – it’s a fantastic way to spread the message about the benefits of health and wellbeing in a fun and inspiring way. I truly believe in the core message of the campaign, which is that everyone, regardless of their current health and fitness, can take small steps to live a happier and healthier life. Being an Everyday Athlete doesn’t mean you have to run a marathon or climb a mountain, it just means changing everyday behaviours.

This campaign shows how easy it is for people to make small changes that can really benefit their short and long term health.”

Ten life hacks to becoming an 'everyday athlete' Everyday Athlete activities

Calories burnt in a week (Women)

Calories burnt in a year (Women)

Calories burnt in a week (Men)

Calories burnt in a year (Men)

Details

One hour of gardening

279

14508

332

17264

One hour of vigorous gardening a week, multiplied by 52 weeks

Walking upstairs at work daily

Walking around house while carrying an infant

93

4464

111

5328

Assuming a total of 5 mins of walking upstairs a day, based on 48 working weeks in the year

285

14820

339

17628

Assuming a 15lb baby and walking 10 mins a day

Getting off the bus a stop early and walking

175

9100

208

10816

Assuming the walk between bus stops is 5 minutes each way, 5 times a week

Taking the baby for a walk in the pram

349

18148

415

21580

Assuming a 20 minute walk 5 days a week, based on 48 working weeks in the year

Doing 30 minutes of standing

at the office everyday

385

20020

460

23920

Details calculated using http://www.juststand.org/tabid/637/default.aspx

One hour of house

work a week

210

10920

249

12948

Assuming one hour of vigorous house cleaning

Washing the car once a week

157

8164

187

9724

Assuming 45 minutes of car cleaning

Walking to the station everyday

524

25152

623

32396

Assuming a 30 minute walk a day, 5 times a week, based on 48 working weeks in the year

Walking the dog an extra ten minutes a day

244

12688

291

15132

An extra 70 minutes

14 Parent Talk May 2017

Twice as many mums want baby girls over boys IT MAY BE a man’s world but modern mums are twice as likely to want daughters over sons, a new study from parenting site ChannelMum. com shows.

Two in five mothers said they wished for a girl while pregnant, compared to just 18 per cent who hoped for a son. But for fathers the reverse is true, with men a whopping three times more likely to want boys. A huge 31 per cent of men expressed the preference to have sons, while only one in ten wanted a daughter.

While four in five mums said they believe it’s normal to have a preference on the gender of your child, the report revealed the subject is still strictly taboo with few families willing to admit it.

Of the 2,189 mums polled, over a third didn’t tell anyone they had a gender preference, and under half (48%) confided in their partner. Only a third admitted their feelings to their own family. However, the desire for a certain sex is so strong that only 18 per cent of mums claimed to feel ‘guilty’ for wanting their favoured gender.

The study also showed parents are now so desperate to discover their child’s gender that almost two thirds of parents find out at a scan, while only 38 per cent remain on ‘Team Yellow’ - the modern code for not finding out your baby’s gender until birth. And over a third of pregnant mums now plan ‘gender reveal’ events or parties complete with pink or blue-hued balloons and cakes.

However, a quarter of mums quizzed admitted to feeling ‘very disappointed’ if their child was the ‘wrong’ gender. Bravely, a further three per cent even admitted this affected their ability to bond with their child long-term.

This disappointment means two in five kept going for four or more children. A further six per cent would even fly abroad for gender selection IVF which is currently illegal in the UK. Worryingly, 18 per cent of families have had negative comments on the gender mix of their children, with close family and mother-in-laws

most likely to make rude jibes, followed by strangers and then friends.

The study also unveiled the nation’s ideal family as one girl / one boy, voted for by 54% of mums quizzed. But 15 per cent of mums claim the growing celebrity trend to have ‘pink and blue twins’ - like Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt, Mariah Carey and Jennifer Lopez - is putting pressure on normal mums.

Two in five mums polled said the ‘PBT’ phenomenon is being used to make working mums want to have an ‘instant family’ and take less time away from the workplace, and 15 per cent had even felt pressured to try for mixed-sex twins themselves.

But despite so many parents favouring one gender over another, surprisingly just three per cent of parents polled tried to ‘sway’ the sex of the child.

The most popular method was timing sex, followed by eating a special diet and even calculating dates to conceive using astrology.

The study also revealed the most common reasons for wanting a certain sex.

Top Reasons for Wanting Girls 1. Girls stay closer to their parents when she grows up (41%) 2. Girls more fun to dress up (40%) 3. Girls are better behaved (7%) Top Reasons for Wanting Boys 1. Boys are easier (14%) 2. Boys are more fun to play with (9%) 3. Cultural reasons (4%) Siobhan Freegard, founder of ChannelMum.com said: “Boy or girl - every child is a blessing, but the issue of gender disappointment is something we need to talk about and bring into the open.

With mums and dads often at odds about the gender they really want, one parent will usually end up disappointed, so we must ensure families have the support they need to bond with their baby. It’s worth remembering a child isn’t their gender - they are their own people with their own personality. So whatever the gender, let your child be who they are, not what you hoped them to be.”

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EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Centre for Young Musicians Taunton offers fee bursaries and travel bursaries Centre for Young Musicians (CYM), a division of the Guildhall School, is delighted to announce fee bursaries and travel bursaries are available for entry in September 2017.

The bursaries have been generously granted by the Guildhall School’s Young Artists Scheme and Sound Foundation Somerset music education hub.

There are special bursaries for students in West Somerset aged 12-18. Applications are invited from all young musicians aged under 18 and the bursary application form can be found online. The closing date for bursary applications is 31 July 2017.

CYM Taunton opened at Richard Huish College in South Road, Taunton, on 22 April, after 3 successful years at Hestercombe Gardens. It is a brilliant progression route for young musicians and exists to provide excellent musical coaching and sustainable, longterm training for all musicians under 18 years of age in the South West.

You are invited to come and find out about this exciting Saturday music school at the next open day on 20 May from 9am-12noon. It is a great

Students at Centre for Young Musicians Taunton - a division of the Guildhall School.

opportunity for all under 18s to visit and take part in free workshops. They can try orchestra, ukulele, band, singing, history of music, ocarina or recorder, general musicianship, and aural training. Places are limited so booking is essential. Other open days are on 17 June and 24 June. Please contact CYM

Taunton to arrange a visit to the school at any time: 07754 217993 / taunton@cym.org.uk / cymtaunton.org.uk.

CYM is part of the Guildhall School’s Young Artists division, which also includes Junior Guildhall.

The Guildhall School of Music & Drama is provided by the City of London Corporation.

Put the kettle on, it's Time for Tea Whether it’s about catching up with a friend, sharing memories and laughter or breaking difficult news, it’s often over a cuppa that many words are shared.

‘Time for Tea’ is running throughout May and June this year and once again St. Margaret’s Hospice is asking its valued supporters to raise money by putting the kettle on.

By holding a tea party you can help St. Margaret’s make each day count for patients and their families facing a lifelimiting illness. Simply invite all your friends and family over for some tea, coffee and cake, in return for a kind donation to St. Margaret’s.

Each year St. Margaret’s supports over 3,200 people – in our In-patient Units in Taunton and Yeovil and through our Community Teams visiting patients in their own home.

St. Margaret’s needs to raise in excess of £7.5m from the local community to continue these services, ensuring that everyone who needs care and support to face a life-limiting illness receives it.

For your ‘Time for Tea’ fundraising pack, or for more information on other ways you can help, please visit www.st-margarets-hospice. org.uk or call 0845 345 9671.

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Parent Talk May 2017 15

16 Parent Talk December 2012 All Hallows Preparatory School Nursery Class Give your 3 year old the best possible start within the environs of this renowned Prep School.

Fantastic facilities and activities including Forest School, LTA Tennis Academy and Swimming Pool and access to specialist teaching staff for languages, Music, Art, Dance, Drama and Sport set this facility apart from other nurseries.

Visit at any time: 01749 881600 admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk Brook Green Early Years Recently relocated to purpose built setting offering a larger learning environment and large garden, which can be accessed at all times for free flow play.

Highly qualified staff. Spaces available now, 2/3/4 year old funding accepted.

Please call 01823 353072 for further information.

Bridgwater & Taunton College Childcare Centre is Ofsted rated Outstanding and open to the general public and children of students, from four months to five years of age. There is also a Holiday Play Scheme for children up to eight years old.

It has a secure outdoor area boasting an inspirational garden, where children are encouraged to explore both indoor and outdoor learning.

T: 01278 441270 E: childcare@bridgwater.ac.uk www.bridgwaterchildcare.co.uk The Folly Nursery and Pre-School stands on the edge of the village of Ilton in the beautiful South Somerset countryside and caters for children ranging in age from very young babies, right up to primary school age and during school holidays age 8. All Folly children can stay for anything from 2 sessions a week to 5 full days, with cooked nursery meals if you wish. We are open from 7.45 am until 6.00 pm and will accept the extended government funding either for term time only or over 51 weeks a year.

01460 55488 www.follynursery. co.uk Hazlegrove Nursery and Pre-Prep Sparkford. Hazlegrove’s innovative Pre-Prep curriculum is outstandingly successful, evident in the increased confidence and ability levels as children

NURSERY

directory

move up to the Prep School. The children benefit from experienced staff, specialist teaching and exceptional facilities including an indoor swimming pool and woods for Forest School.

“Hazlegrove children are happy children” says Headmaster Richard Fenwick, “we simply want to provide the very best education we can for the pupils in our care”.

For more information, contact Fiona O’Neill on 01963 442606

through a combination of classroom and outdoor activities, using a child-led curriculum, small class sizes and excellent facilities, like our on-site Forest School and indoor swimming pool, support this. Over 20 free after school activities as well as an Early Birds and Late Club.

To arrange a visit or a taster session please contact: Hannah Cox in Admissions on 01458 837524

King’s Hall Nursery King’s Hall is a wonderfully traditional yet progressive school set in the rolling Somerset countryside just outside Taunton. Although the Nursery shares the Preparatory school’s superb facilities, it is self contained and operates in a secure and peaceful environment. Log cabin classrooms, vast on-site Forest School and highly experienced, dedicated staff make King’s Hall Nursery the natural choice for children 2 to 5 years.

01823 285921 www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk

Perrott Hill Montessori Nursery and Pre-Prep. Given ‘outstanding’

by Ofsted, the Nursery is situated in the attractive, safe courtyard of the manor house. The Nursery children, aged 3-4 years, have the use of the extensive grounds and facilities of the school (age range 3-13) as well as having their own outdoor adventure play area.

The staff are warm and friendly.

Free after school care is available.

01460 72051 www.perrotthill.com

Little Boots Day Nursery (Ages 0-5, 8am-6pm) Come and visit us on Pottery Farm! Our idyllic setting offers fantastic opportunities for enhanced outdoor learning; we work with a maximum of 16 children a day ensuring each child gets the individual attention they need.

Contact Cleo Wilson for more information.

T 07936 555 676 littlebootsdaynursery.co.uk Millfield Pre-Prep School (Ages2-7), situated in the beautiful Prep campus in Glastonbury. Our aim is to encourage a love of learning

Queen’s College Highgrove Nursery, Nursery School, Pre-Prep and Reception 0-5 years.

Queen’s Pre Prep and Junior School is renowned for excellence in infant and junior education and care.

The team at Queen’s Highgrove Nursery embrace such standards of education and development offering year round care 0-3 years. Queen’s Nursery School is situated in the Pre-Prep Department and it is here that the stepping stones to a formal education are laid. Highly qualified and experienced Nursery School staff work in close liaison with parents and the Highgrove Nursery team,

ensuring a smooth and personalised transition. Queen’s offers well-established parent and toddler groups. Queen’s Pre-Prep takes pride in providing a rich, stimulating and diverse education within a nurturing and caring environment. www.queenscollege.org.uk 01823 278928, junioradmissions@queenscollege. org.uk Rydal Day Nursery, Clevedon, is bright, fun and full of learning opportunities and happy children.

Run by a fully qualified dynamic team, in a Makaton friendly setting and are "I Can accredited".

Outstanding Ofsed July 2015.

Open 8-6pm Monday-Thursday, 8am-5.30pm Friday all year. Two and Three year old funding accepted. www.rydaldaynursery.co.uk 01275 342352 Smartees Day Care Nursery Ltd offers professional and flexible childcare for working families, with 2 conveniently located nurseries close to town centre. Smartees Preston Road opening hours 7am-6pm 01935 411144 Smartees Beer Street opening hours 8am-6pm 01935 411777 Taunton Nursery School for children from 0 years. Flexible Nursery Education, 7.30am5.45pm. Highly qualified teachers.

Spectacular grounds and facilities used by all. Children can attend a combination of morning, afternoon and late club sessions.

01823 703300 www.tauntonschool.co.uk

Tops Mini Mariners Tops Mini Mariners is based in Taunton (UKHO) and caters for children from 3 months old until they are ready to start school. Our nursery prides itself on being a warm, friendly and caring environment for young minds to develop. The outdoor spaces accommodate a good range of climbing, balancing and sliding equipment, a sand pit and planting areas. We access the outdoor play area in all weathers.

Bookings at Mini Mariners are taken per session: Morning session: 8.30am – 1.00pm and Afternoon session: 1.00pm – 5.30pm Monday to Friday 01823 323513 info.minimariners@ topsdaynurseries.co.uk Tops Musgrove Park Hospital Tops Musgrove has a warm, welcoming and friendly team who form good relationships with our families. For children from 3 months old until they are ready to start school.

Holiday club for children aged 5 – 11 year olds. Friendly, relaxed, safe and playful environment where children can learn, develop and enjoy their time at nursery.

Hours: 6am – 8pm Monday to Friday Afternoon session: 1.00pm – 5.30pm 01823 342038 info.taunton@topsdaynurseries. co.uk Wellington Prep School Nursery Attractive, well-designed buildings.

Talented teachers. Cheerful children.

Proud parents. All this can be yours at Wellington Prep School Nursery and Pre-Nursery. EYFS can be redeemed against our fees. We would love to have your children from 2 years upwards. Open 50 weeks per year.

Please enjoy our website www.wellington-school.org.uk or call Rachel Debenham to arrange a visit. 01823 668700 Little Wellies Term time Toddler group. Open to all pre-school children every Thursday morning 9.15-11.15am, Wellington Prep School Hall. £3 per child and £1 per additional child weekly charge.

Contact Maria Kerr for more details 01823 668700 prep@wellington-school.org.uk

To book our Nursery Directory, please call 01458 250461

Planning a holiday with friends or family?

Family Farm Holidays

In Glorious Devon welcoming comfortable cottages in an idylic setting

Join us on the farm, watch and help feed the animals.

Large gardens, play room, games room. Lots of play space.

Outdoor heated swimming pool.

Providing very special child friendly relaxing holidays for over 29 years. Highly recommended. ‘VisitBritain 3 & 4 star’

Torridge House Cottages Little Torrington, Devon 01805 622542 www.torridgehouse.co.uk

16 Parent Talk May 2017

North Devon is home to wonderful beaches, forests, lanes, views, walks, shops, villages, surfing, moors, cycling, history, fishing and cream teas!

It’s beautiful, unique and very relaxing.

And in the heart of North Devon’s Tarka and War Horse country is Torridge House Cottages; an extra special group of just 9 self-catering cottages, where there’s time to play and gardens great for hide and seek, ball games, egg and spoon races, table tennis, toys, splashing and swimming in the outdoor heated swimming pool, and cuddly animals to help look after.

Also, 2 little pigs who are

always excited about their food; the ducks and chickens too, and the baby rabbits and guinea pigs love meeting the children.

There’s something for everyone at Torridge House Cottages.

It is on the edge of a tiny, sleepy village in an idyllic setting surrounded by farmland. In a glorious part of Devon with grassy single track roads, tall hedgerows, fabulous views, sandy beaches, country walks, quaint fishing villages, market towns, country pubs, beautiful gardens and excellent family attractions. In the village itself is a pottery with clay work and painting, and Marina’s wonderful massages and

holistic treatments.

Available for May half term, from Saturday 27th, is 2-bedroom Lin Cottage which sleeps 4 and is £738. Also 4-bedroom Duck Cottage, ideal for two families, Duck sleeps 8

plus babe and a toddler; it is £1290.

Find out more and more availability from www. torridgehouse.co.uk or phone 01805 622542.

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EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Nurturing Individuality Exciting times ahead and Creativity for Hazlegrove

At Queen’s College PrePrep, we offer an education for our children which encourages thinking skills, independence and learning through discovery.

Our aim at Queen’s is to provide an environment where, from a very early age, our children can start to develop skills for life.

We use our daily teacher observations to form assessments of our pupils throughout the year in a non-pressurised, unobtrusive, stress-free way and use summative assessments at key points throughout the year

to make judgements against national expectations.

This means that, at any one time, we are aware of the level at which each child is performing in relation to the national standards and can tailor our teaching to support and further their progress.

We recognise the importance of each child’s mental wellbeing and how this contributes to their continued progress and allows them to thrive.

One of the assessments we carry out allows us to evaluate pupils’ happiness within our educational setting and the results have shown that our pupils are very happy with their learning experience here in the Queen’s College Pre-Prep.

Our aim is to nurture creativity and emphasise the importance of learning so that our pupils go through school knowing they can thrive and discover.

You can see Queen’s College Pre-Prep at work and play by booking a personal visit – email junioradmissions@queenscollege.org.uk or call 01823 278928

Exciting times lie ahead for Hazlegrove in 2017 as they look forward to welcoming new Headmaster Mark White, who joins with his wife Serena from the Dragon School in September. He will inherit a school where the provision for pupils and the strength and quality of the staff is better than it has ever been.

Recent changes to the curriculum with the introduction of Food Technology and Digital Design and Realisation have been very well received. “Incorporating Food Technology into the curriculum is a direct response to the significant and often unwelcome changes we are seeing in the food industry and the negative impact that this is having on individuals and society” says retiring Headmaster Richard Fenwick.

“It is imperative that our pupils leave us with a clear understanding about the importance of food and a healthy diet. They need to be able to make well-informed choices, as well as being able to prepare and cook food for themselves.”

“Our new curriculum also recognises the huge impact

that technology is having in our manufacturing industry and will give pupils a clear insight into key contemporary processes. A computer-aided design facility equipped with digital printer, 2-D engraver and laser cutter are complemented by equipment for working with thermoplastics and sewing machines.

Hazlegrove has an outstanding reputation for producing well-rounded pupils who are well versed

in traditional qualities such as courtesy, good manners and consideration for others. Whilst never letting go of these vital and life defining skills, it is important that we look ahead, preparing our children for an increasingly technological and challenging world.”

Mark White will be available to meet prospective parents at the Open Morning on Saturday 13 May at 11am. For more information please contact Sarah-Jane on 01963 442606.

H azlegrove P re -P reP Open Activity Morning and Teddy Bears’ Picnic on Saturday 6 May from 10.30am Bring your children along to take part in the special activity sessions including Forest School, Tennis, Drama and Art. There will also be games, crafts, face painting and fun competitions in the Pre-Prep playground including the Best Dressed Teddy Competition.

Come along and join in the fun...

For more information call Sarah-Jane on 01963 442606 follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

Hazlegrove, Sparkford BA22 7JA Parent Talk May 2017 17

BOOK REVIEW

Editor’s choice Poppy Pym and the Smuggler’s Secret

By Laura Wood Published by Scholastic A school trip to the seaside couldn’t come at a better time for Poppy – sea, sand and a centuriesold mystery is just what she needs to take her mind off the unanswered questions about her past.

But things are not what they seem at Crumley Castle – and it’s not long before Poppy finds herself in the middle of her most dangerous case yet. Impossible disappearances, long buried secrets and dangerous threats await. Are the ghost stories true? Or is the real villain right under Poppy’s nose?

No, Nancy, No!

By Alice Tait Published by Walker Books Nancy and her sausage dog Roger are ready for a day out in London but the real question is – is London ready for Nancy?

Blending distinctively joyful London-scapes with the story of a mischievous little girl, Nancy, and her long-suffering dachshund, Roger, this is a wild and calamitous chase by boat, bus and bike across all of London’s signature sights! From Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London to the London Eye and beyond…

With over fifteen flaps throughout, an incredible pop-up Nelson’s column and a fold-out map, young readers will delight in this interactive adventure, and will soon be joining in with Roger’s catchy refrain: “No, Nancy, No!” Grumpy Frog

By Ed Vere Published by Puffin Grumpy Frog is not grumpy. He loves green, and he loves to hop, and he loves winning. But what happens when Grumpy Frog doesn’t win, or encounters – horror of horrors – a Pink Rabbit?

Join Grumpy Frog as he learns about compromise and tolerance, friendship and the power of saying sorry. A hilarious book with a twist in the tail about getting, and getting rid of, the grumps, ‘Grumpy Frog’ subtly teaches the importance of being kind to all.

The Porridge Plot

by Che Golden Published by Alma Books A delightful story of magic and fantasy, Che Golden’s The Porridge Plot is also a touching portrayal of family life, which emphasizes the importance of love and togetherness.

When Maya and her family move to the countryside, they are intrigued to find a house sprite living in their new home. This unwanted resident, which identifies itself as a Brownie, gets very upset when it realizes it won’t be getting its bowl of porridge, which Brownies expect to receive in exchange for doing the housekeeping. As the furious creature wreaks havoc on the household, will Maya and her family find a way to resolve this situation, or will they have to leave their new home?

Timmy Failure: The Cat Stole My Pants

By Stephan Pastis Published by Walker Books Everyone’s favourite best worst detective is back in the sixth book of this bestselling series.

Timmy is in Key West, Florida, ostensibly for the honeymoon of this mother and Doorman Dave – if they even got married, which Timmy doubts. Unfortunately for Timmy, crime doesn’t take a holiday. And because Total has fled to Cuba, Timmy must rely on a new partner for help: Doorman Dave’s nephew Emilio. Meanwhile, a surprise newcomer shows up in Timmy’s life and, as if things couldn’t get more hectic, Timmy’s pants have been stolen by a six-toed cat.

Wave Me Goodbye

By Jacqueline Wilson Published by Penguin Random House September, 1939. As the Second World War begins, ten-year old Shirley is sent away on a train with her schoolmates. She doesn’t know where she’s going, or what’s going to happen to her when she gets there. All she has been told is that she’s going on ‘a little holiday’.

Shirley is billeted to the country, with two boys from East End London, Kevin and Archie – and their experiences living in the strange, half-empty Red House, with the mysterious and reclusive Mrs Waverley, will change their lives for ever.

The Giant Jumperee

By Julia Donaldson and Helen Oxenbury Published by Puffin Rabbit was hopping home one day when he heard a loud voice coming from inside his burrow.

‘I’m the Giant Jumperee and I’m as scary as can be!’

When Rabbits friends, Cat, Bear and Elephant come to help they are each 18 Parent Talk May 2017

scared away in turn by the mysterious voice.

He can squash you like a flea He will sting you like a bea And he’s taller than a tree!

But who IS the Giant Jumperee?

This is a perfect read-aloud picture book which will delight generations of readers.

The House in the Tree

By Bianca Pizorno Illustrated by Quentin Blake Published by Alma Books All children dream of having a secret house where they can live on their own, far from any rules and regulations. But not all of them are as lucky as Aglaia, who lives at the top of a magical tree together with her friend Bianca and an incredible host of flying dogs, talking cats, carnivorous flowers and children who speak in verse.

Inventively illustrated by Quentin Blake, Aglaia’s adventures – and her battles with the gruff Signor Brullo and the woodmen who want to cut down the tree – are sure to enchant and inspire the imagination of every child.

King of the Sky

By Nicola Davies, illustrated

by Laura Carlin Published by Walker Books This Amnesty International-endorsed book is about a young boy who has started a new life in a new country, yet feels lost and alone – until he befriends an old man Mr Evans, who races pigeons.

Soon they’re both pinning their hopes on a race across Europe, and a competitor they truly believe in – a bird aptly named King of the Sky. William Wenton and the Luridium Thief

By Bobbie Peers Published by Walker Books When twelve-year old codebreaking genius William Wenton is kidnapped and taken to the secretive Institute for Post-Human research, he needs all his ingenuity and code-cracking skills to find out the sinister secrets the Institute is hiding.

The first in a thrilling new fantasy-adventure series taking the world by storm, ‘William Wenton and the Luridium Thief’ is packed with magical codebreaking skills, killer robots and a young hero with a supernatural destiny.

Mrs Mole, I’m Home!

By Jarvis Published by Walker Books Poor Morris can’t find his spectacles anywhere so he’s decided to go on without them. Surely he can remember the way home to his loving family and delicious dinner of worm noodles? With true flair, a hilarious story unfolds as Morris brightly sings “Mrs Mole, I’m homeee!” before burrowing right into some poor unsuspecting rabbit family’s hole. Oh dear, without his spectacles, Morris really is lost. Will he ever get home?

With perfect comic timing and a whole lot of heart, Jarvis has you rooting for Morris to find his family and rejoicing in the idea that, glasses or no glasses, you can always make your way back to home sweet home.

follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

CLASSIFIED Old Masters Rock How to Look at Art with Children

By Maria-Christina Sayn-Wittgenstein Nottebohm, Published by Pimpernel Press Old Masters Rock is a book for parents and children to look at together. It introduces the type of questions that help us discover things about a work of art and how we feel about it.

Grouped into thirteen themes such as Animals, the Natural World, Action Heroes, Myth & Magic, Fabulous Faces and others, fifty paintings from the fourteenth century through to the early twentieth century are featured. Different styles, from the early Renaissance, through Baroque, Mannerist, Realist and Impressionist, are included. Well-known artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Holbein, Rubens, Velasquez, Constable, Degas, Manet, Van Gogh and Munch are featured, as well as less familiar artists who will quickly become favourites.

Young Bond: Red Nemesis

By Steve Cole Published by Penguin Random House James is on home soil when he receives a package with a message from beyond the grave. The package’s mysterious contents put James at the heart of a long-running plot that, if it runs its course, will paint London’s streets red with blood. Not only will James have to fight to stay alive and save the country he loves, but to clear the Bond family name, which he holds so dear. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and James doesn’t know who he can trust…

10 Things Girls Need Most To grow up strong and free

By Steve Biddulph Published by Harper Collins In answer to the crisis in girls’ mental health, the UK’s best-selling parenting author, Steve Biddulph, brings and interactive learning guide rich in content an interactive elements to help parents be prepared and self-aware in providing for their daughters.

Calling all schools Poster competition Brake’s road safety poster competition is a fun, new project for schools that aims to inspire and engage children, aged 4-11, about the need for drivers to slow down so kids can walk and cycle to school safely.

Simply register your school to receive a free e-resource pack that enables you or the children themselves to talk about the dangers of adults speeding in their community – something that puts kids' lives at risk every single day.

Print off our poster template, get children to create powerful designs in class or at home, display their artwork in your entrance hall, and send them to Brake

by Friday 30 June 2017.

Posters mean prizes!

There will be one winner and two highly commended

media to attend a launch of the poster. The winning child will receive prizes for themselves and their school, as well as a visit from Brake mascot Zak the Zebra.

HIGHLY COMMENDED – Design turned into one large banner that will go on display outside the school or in the local community. The child and school will be included in a special press release, inviting media to attend a launch of the banner. Child will also receive

prizes for themselves and their school.

Use the entry form in your e-resource pack and send your posters to postercomp@brake.org. uk or Brake’s road safety poster competition, Brake, PO Box 548, Huddersfield, HD1 2XZ. Deadline for entries is Friday 30 June 2017. For full terms and conditions, see your e-resource pack. Good luck! www.brake.org.uk

CATHERINE’S MAGIC ENTERTAINMENT For tailor-made Magic Shows, Mini Discos, Games and Balloon Twisting Family Fun For Everyone!!

Ideal For Any Party, Large or Small, Indoors or Out 07770 227812 catherine@magicentertainment.co.uk [c/w enhanced DBS for added peace of mind]

MAGIC & BALLOONS Malcolm the Magician Magic and balloon modelling for Schools, Playgroups and Birthday Parties.

Tel: 01823 412750 Mob: 07989 585979 www.malcolm-the-magician.co.uk

(insured and police checked)

Beyond the Sea

By Lauren Wolk Published by Penguin Random House Crow has lived her whole life on a tiny, starkly beautiful island.

Her only companions are Osh, the man who rescued her from a washed-up skiff as a baby and raised her, and Miss Maggie, their neighbour across the sandbar.

But it is only when a mysterious fire appears across the water that an unspoken question of her own history forms in Crow’s heart, and an unstoppable chain of events is triggered. Crow sets out to find her lost identity – and, ultimately, to learn what it means to be a family.

entries chosen from two categories – foundation/key stage 1 (4-7 year olds) and key stage 2 (7-11 year olds). Judging will take place in July, with winning schools notified by the end of the month. Winners will be announced publicly in September.

WINNER – Design turned into two large banners that will go on display outside the school or in the local community. The winning child and school will be included in a special press release, inviting

“DAVE” THE MAGICIAN & BALLOONATIC available for birthday parties, playgroups, schools, fetes, promotions etc DBS Checked & fully insured

in idyllic rural location 5 minutes from A303

Melanie Tuffill 01460 234325/07876481027 melanie@oliveronline.co.uk

01823 288644

KEITH’S MAGICAL ENTERTAINMENT

Children’s parties a speciality. Magic, Puppets, Comedy.

Terrific entertainment. Police checked and insured.

follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

Ofsted Registered Childminder

01935 822135

www.keithsmagic.co.uk

JUNE issue copy deadline 24th MAY 2017 Call 01458 250461

Quirky Textile Art

Parent Talk

www.sarahharmertextileart.com Running out of ideas for a family meal?

Parent talk

head over to our website www.parenttalk.org.uk where you'll find lots of ideas for preparing easy, wholesome and tasty dishes.

Parent Talk May 2017 19

All groups of pupils demonstrate exemplary attitudes to learning.

ISI, March 2017

Pupils feel extremely safe, well-known and nurtured.

ISI, March 2017

OUTSTANDING INSPECTION Taunton Preparatory School is celebrating an outstanding inspection report from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), equivalent to Ofsted. Read more inside on page 13. Read the full reports at www.tauntonschool.co.uk/inspection.

Now taking applications for 2018, some places still available for 2017 entry.

ASSISTED PLACES at Taunton School.

We know that for many parents, the dream of sending their child to a top independent school is out of reach financially.

Taunton School provides two different kinds of financial support, Scholarships and Assisted Places.

Call us to find out more on 01823 703703 or visit www.tauntonschool.co.uk/assistedplaces

CHALLENGE ¡ NURTURE ¡

INSPIRE

www.tauntonschool.co.uk