Parent Talk October 2017 by Parent Talk

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

October 2017 Volume 24 Issue 9

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Parent talk Halloween Fun comes contents Out & About

p2-5, 7

Events

Book Bag

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Nursery Directory

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Education, information

p11-13

Book Review

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Classified

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competitions Buggi Lights

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Dear Readers...

Hopefully, everyone is now feeling settled into the new school routine and confident enough to take on Halloween! For the very brave, there are ghost tours at Dunster Castle and a spooky spells trail at Hestercombe whereas others might prefer the more calming carve a pumpkin activity at Monkton Elm. If Halloween isn’t quite your thing, there’s still plenty to do across half term to keep everyone entertained including Apple Days and Den Building for some good, wholesome, outdoor fun!

to The Walled Gardens of Cannington Bridgwater & Taunton College’s The Walled Gardens of Cannington will be opening its gates once again for its annual Halloween fun, from Wednesday 25 – Sunday 29 October, 10am – 4pm each day. Last year’s activities saw hundreds of children and their accompanying adults attend The Walled Gardens, following the pumpkin trail, carving creative pumpkin designs, having their faces painted and enjoying the freedom of the Gardens. This year the event, where fancy dress is optional, is sure to be as popular as ever, so it is worth buying your tickets in advance to ensure you don’t miss out! Children and adults alike will be in for a treat as they explore the Gardens, surrounded by

Somerset based baby and toddler brand Hippychick are celebrating a spate of success at this year’s renowned Best Baby and Toddler Gear Awards. Not 1, not 2 but 10 of their products won in their respected categories with their adorable Nattou baby rockers and SpaceCot travel cot leading the way with gold awards. Aquaplane, the 3 in 1 swimming aid and their Wallaboo toddler footmuffs both won consumer awards, voted for by parents. What they are most proud of was scooping the top accolade in the Toddler Clothing category, winning gold for their famous

Best wishes Tamsin

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 November deadline 18th October 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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waterproof all in one suits. They have been designed to be completely windproof and breathable, ensuring complete comfort and protection from the elements. The outer skin is made from a high quality Peach Skin Polyester with a real attention

to detail from their taped seams to their adjustable ankles and wrists that allow room to grow. Available in sizes from 12 months to 4 years and 4 colours – order yours with 20% off using code PARENT20 from hippychick. com

Wheelybugs Create a buzz indoors or out www.hippychick.com 01278 434440

Midi Flyte case scooter Justine Hughes, Bristol

MORE COPIES? Don’t forget to follow us on twitter

Tickets can be purchased from the Walled Gardens’ Gift Shop or by contacting T: 01278 655042 E: walledgardens@bridgwater.ac.uk W: www.canningtonwalledgardens.co.uk

Competition winners

Groovy Food Hamper Laura Long, Bridgwater

01458 250461

Visitors enjoying the Halloween event in previous years.

Gold Rush at Hippychick!

See you next month when we’ll be thinking about…Christmas. I know, and you were just getting into your stride with the new term!

Parent Talk

the suitably spooky medieval priory. Many ghostly stories have been shared throughout the years. It is said that a network of tunnels exist beneath the Gardens, leading to various spots in the village so that the nuns and nearby monks could meet in secret, and sightings of ghostly nuns have been reported! Tickets to the Halloween activities cost £5 per child in advance and £6 on the gate, with accompanying adults paying the Gardens’ general admission prices. The child ticket provides entry to the Gardens, a pumpkin, drink and treat. Please note that pumpkins are guaranteed to advance ticket holders, and only whilst stocks last to those bought on the gate. Face painting will have a small additional cost.

Looking for past issues of Parent Talk? head over to our online editions on our website

Wed 25 – Sun 29 Oct, 10am – 4pm £5 in advance £6 on the gate

includes drink, treat and

pumpkin*!

FOR TICKETS & FURTHER INFORMATION VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.canningtonwalledgardens.co.uk T 01278 655042

*Pumpkin guaranteed to advance ticket holders. For tickets bought on the day, whilst stocks last. Normal adult entry fee of £3.95 applies.

Parent Talk October 2017 3

OUT & ABOUT

Halloween October Half Term Fun at the Palace Horrors 23rd-27th October 2017 Keep the little ones entertained this October Half Term down at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells. The theme for the week is ‘Woodland Wonders’ and families can choose from a range of interactive autumnal activities. The fun starts on Monday 23rd October from 10:30am3pm at the ‘Nature Ninjas’ session, when there will be a variety of garden-based activities. The garden team will be on hand to help families find out what’s growing in the garden at this time of year and will be helping little ones to Halloween is a great time for a bit of scary fun. Take your little monsters to Paignton Zoo this Halloween and have a spooktacular time. They can take part in a Trick or Treat trail (£1.50 per trail sheet) to receive a chocolate treat and a wolf mask (while stocks last). They can ride on the ghost train, listen to spooky animal talks or drop in for Crocodile Swamp Discovery, daily at 11.15am. There will also be bug talks and bug-eating challenges – if you are brave enough - each day at 12.45pm and a maned wolf talk on the Monday and Friday at 3.30pm. In addition, kids will be able to create their own 'slime' in special slime workshops to be held Tuesday

to Friday at 2.00pm, 2.20pm and 2.40pm - head along to the Zoo’s Education Centre to take part. But it could get messy! Halloween Horrors, which is sponsored by Marshfield Farm, runs from 21st to 31st October. Standard Paignton Zoo admission prices apply. If it’s scary animals you’re after, Paignton Zoo is the place to go. You’ll find snakes, spiders and all sorts of slithering and scuttling creatures. And you’d better look out for the crocodiles, tigers and lions, too – they could give you a nasty fright! Then there are the native bats that live around the Zoo and hunt across the open water and along the edges of the woods. Paignton Zoo is a brilliantly scary place to go!

create bird feeders and to plant seeds and bulbs. Throughout Half Term week, a Woodland Wonders Trail will be on offer, using different parts of the Palace Buildings and the Gardens to encourage families to discover and explore the site. On Friday 27th from 10:30am-3pm a ‘Woodland Wonders’ Family Fun Friday will take place. There will be a range of autumnal-themed crafts to keep little hand busy and to excite creative imaginations. Don’t forget to visit the Arboretum to see the trees in their autumnal splendour – it’s

also home to The Dragon’s Lair - ideal for exercising little legs after all the other fun! If you’ve worked up a hunger, The Bishop’s Table will have

October Half Term at The Museum of Somerset From royal selfies to dinosaurs and spooky castles, there is plenty to keep the family amused at the Museum of Somerset in October. Throughout half term (21–28 October) families can enjoy some Royal Family Fun with activities inspired by the Henry VII portrait, on loan from the National Portrait Gallery. Activities include a ‘Castle

Trail’ and a ‘Royal Selfie’ photo opportunity! £1 per child. On Saturday 21 October, from 10.30am to 2.00pm there will be mask and hat making exploring the wonderful world of colour as part of the Museum’s exhibition of paintings by Hans Schwarz. The event is part of Taunton Carnival, with prizes for the best masks and hats. Judging will be at 2.00pm.

Sunday 22 October 10.00 am - 5.00 pm Dinosaur activities, Crafts, meet the expert, stories & dressing up!

Tuesday 31 October

Dino Day is on Sunday 22 October, from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Families can explore the Museum’s amazing collection of real fossils, take a dino trail around t h e museum and enjoy some dino crafts. The day includes a chance to dress up like a dinosaur, dino disco dancing and storytelling. It costs £3 per person (£10 for a family ticket) and no booking is required. Visitor Services Manager, Susie Simmons, said: “We have two great art exhibitions on this autumn and with related activities for children there is something for everyone to enjoy.” On Wednesday 25 October, there will be arts and crafts as part of an Autumn Family Fun day. Sessions run from 11.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 3.30pm and are suitable for ages 3 to 11. Cost £1. Following half term the museum will be open for

Halloween on Tuesday 31 October from 5.30pm to 8.30pm. Suitable for ages three plus, families can explore the museum in the dark on the spookiest night of the year including activities and crafts. It costs £3 per person (£10 for a family ticket) and no booking is required (bring your own torch). The Museum of Somerset is part of The South West Heritage Trust, an independent charity that protects and celebrates Somerset and Devon’s rich heritage.

O�tober HALF TERM FUN!

Explore the museum on the spookiest night of the year!

Woodland nature ninjas 11am-3pm 23rd october

Events £3 pp / £10 family ticket

Visit museumofsomerset.org.uk for details 01823 255088 Taunton Castle, TA1 4AA

Dino Day includes a chance to dress up like a dinosaur

5.30 pm - 8.30 pm

4 Parent Talk October 2017

a full menu of hot and cold options to keep both children and grown-ups happy! All activities are included with standard admission.

OPEN DAILY Charity No. 1158791

Woodland wonders family friday 10:30-3pm 27th October Under 5's Free

woodland wonders Children's Trail All week!

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

OUT & ABOUT

Spooky Spell Halloween Trail at Hestercombe 21st – 29th October 2017, 10am – 5pm

Visit Hestercombe this October half-term and follow our Spooky Spells Halloween trail around the autumnal gardens. The trail begins in our wizarding bookshop, at the entrance to the Georgian Landscape Garden. Behind the old, creaking door, you’ll find books stacked from floor

to ceiling filled with spells and incantations. There might be a few spiders lurking in the dusty corners too. From there you’ll walk through whispering woods, see ancient temples, enter the Witch’s Hut and walk beside the dark waters of the lake. All the while, you’ll need to look out for the scraps of a spell that you will

need to piece together. When your spell is complete and you’ve found your way out of the gardens, your reward will be a delicious chocolate frog. These have been made for us especially by local chocolatier Cocoa’s. Trail: £1 per child. Normal admission applies. hestercombe.com

Professional Pantomine 'flies' into Taunton with a GIANT adventure this Christmas Season at Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre are delighted to announce their forthcoming production of Jack and the Beanstalk. Featuring a West End standard cast, a mix of well-known songs, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes, outstanding quality and value for money, Reamba productions are bringing professional pantomime to Taunton, Somerset. It will be an unmissable festive treat for families across the region, with incredible special effects including our very own ‘Flying’ Fairy! What more could you wish for? The production will run from Saturday 9th December - Saturday 23rd December 2017. The schedule includes a whopping 25 performances (8 of which are already SOLD OUT!) with great ticket price options available on all shows. Jack and the Beanstalk features a cast of professional actors with a wealth of experience in Pantomime including Dave Lynn, a well-loved star of stage and screen with over 20 years’ experience, who will be playing Dame Trott and the hilarious Sam Stay, ex-student of Somerset performing arts

college The SPACE, who will be taking up the role of Simple Simon. Featuring a supporting professional dance team and juvenile ensemble members, this sensational production is

simply unmissable! Jack and the Beanstalk is destined to be the event of the year in Taunton and we advise you to get your tickets early to avoid disappointment. Prime dates are selling fast.

Tickets are on sale now and can be bought by phoning the Box Office on 01823 414141 or through the website tacchi-morris.com

Parent Talk October 2017 5

6 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 . 7th October: Much Ado About Puffin. Roadwater Village Hall, TA23 0QY. Join Open Attic as they traverse stormy seas and reckless tides to bring you this funny tale about a man all alone, a friendly puffin, and a whole lot of fuss over nothing. Using skilful puppetry, beautiful music, and good old fashioned storytelling, ‘Much Ado About Puffin’ is about old habits, new friendships, and stepping out into the unknown! 4pm. 01984 640976 7th October: High Tide Birdwatching Walk. Meet main car park, Stert Drove, Stockland Bristol, TA5 2PU. Walk with local experts to find out about Bird Life found on 8.30-10.30am. 7th October: Conquest Centre Saturday Kids Club. Conquest Farm, Norton Fitzwarren, Taunton, TA2 6PN. Horse Care & Outdoor Activities, grooming, feeding, games and stable management. Fun, fun fun! Booking essential. Limited spaces. £25. 10am-3pm. 01823 433614 7th October: Milkshake! Live: The Magic Story Book. The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil, BA20 1UX. Monkey and the two Milkshake! presenters in this all singing, all dancing, musical masterpiece, will take audiences on a journey through the world’s favourite fairy tales. 12pm and 3.30pm. 01935 422884 7th-8th October: Falconry Displays. Montacute House, Montacute, TA15 6XP. Meet Albion falconry and their wonderful birds of prey. The falconers, dressed in period costume, will give two shows per day but be on site from 11am till 4pm for questions and general chat. 01935 823289

14th-15th October: Family apple picking days at Glastonbury Tor. Glastonbury, BA6 9DP. Explore a different side to Glastonbury Tor and help with the annual apple harvest. A great opportunity to enjoy a day outdoors. The event is free so come and join in between 10.30am and 3pm. 01278 751874 14th-17th October: Little Red Riding Hood. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. My, my, what a big imagination you have! Retrace Little Red Riding Hood’s walk through the woods as two little ones play a game of ‘what-if’ and pretend! Enter the belly of the wolf and experience the tale of Little Red Riding Hood like never before. Age: 3-7 years. Sat-Sun: 11.30am & 3pm, Mon-Tues: 1am & 1pm. 01225 823409 17th-18th October: The Owl and the Pussycat. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. A short performance followed by a facilitated play session where everyone gets to play and explore adventures based on the show. Expect giant nets, silky rivers, singing with gusto and finally going to sleep. Age: 4 months – 5 years. 10am & 11.15am. 01225 823409 18th October-11th November: War Horse. Bristol Hippodrome, BS1 4UZ. Based on the beloved novel by Michael Morpurgo, this powerfully moving and imaginative drama, filled with stirring music and songs, is a show of phenomenal inventiveness. 7.30pm and Wed matinees at 2.30pm. 0844 871 7627 21st October: Family War Horse Puppetry Workshop. Bristol Hippodrome, BS1 4UZ.

Two-hour workshop run by National Theatre practitioners who have worked as performers and puppeteers in the production. 10am. 0844 871 7627 21st October: Conquest Centre Saturday Kids Club. Conquest Farm, Norton Fitzwarren, Taunton, TA2 6PN. Horse Care & Outdoor Activities, grooming, feeding, games and stable management. Fun, fun fun! Booking essential. Limited spaces. £25. 10am-3pm. 01823 433614 21st-22nd October: Family apple picking days at Glastonbury Tor. Glastonbury, BA6 9DP. Explore a different side to Glastonbury Tor and help with the annual apple harvest. A great opportunity to enjoy a day outdoors. The event is free so come and join in between 10.30am and 3pm. 01278 751874 21st-22nd October: Finders Keepers. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. Two twits, one junkyard and an unexpected surprise! Hot Coals visit the egg with their unique brand of cartoons for the stage, in this fun filled, highly visual and touching piece, using music, puppetry and comic happenings with no dialogue. Age: 5+. Sat 2.30 & 4.30pm, Sun 11.30am & 3pm. 01225 823409 21st- 22nd October: Apple Days. Barrington Court, TA19 0NQ. Celebration of all things ‘apple’. Fun and lively weekend for everyone with much of the activity centred around the orchards and pressing barn. 10.30am-4pm. 01460 241938 21st-29th October: Spooky Spells Halloween Trail. Hestercombe Gardens,

Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton, TA2 8LG. See p5 for details. 10am-5pm. 01823 413923 21st-29th October: Spooky pumpkin trail. Dunster Castle, Dunster TA24 6SL. Wander the gardens and solve the clues to complete the spooky trail. If you make it back you can claim your prize. 10am-4pm. 01823 821314 22nd October: Dino Day, The Museum of Somerset, Taunton Castle, Taunton TA1 4AA. Dinosaur activities and craft, meet the expert, stories and dressing up. 10am-5pm. 01823 255088 22nd October: Halloween Family Fun Day at The Helicopter Museum. The Heliport, Locking Moor Road, Weston super Mare, BS24 8PP. Free entry for all children in Halloween Fancy Dress! 10am-4.30pm. 01934 635227 23rd October: Nature Ninjas at The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens, Wells, BA5 2RA. 11am-3pm. See p4 for details. 01749 988111 24th October: After Dark – Family Fright Night. Dunster Castle, Dunster, TA24 6SL. Scare yourself silly on our self-led ghostly gardens walk. Who knows what could be lurking around the next corner…? Whether you're 5 or 50 you can scare yourself silly on our self-led ghostly gardens walk. 6.30-9pm. 01643 821314 24th October: Den Building. Barrington Court, TA19 0NQ. A great day of outdoor fun; learn new skills and use your imagination to create the perfect den. Bring your sandwiches and a flask if you like and sit back to enjoy your handiwork! 11am-3pm. 01460 241938

Busy times at Divoky Riding Stables It has been quite a summer at Divoky Riding Stables. The 60m x 40m outdoor school was resurfaced with a top of the range waxed pro-track sand and a new set of showjump poles were delivered. The number of horses has increased and training of new young horses is well underway. With promotion to head girl, Tamara Landgon

who is Pat’s ‘right hand ’ has taken charge of the Pony Club centre, expanding it over the summer with students taking their D and D+ tests examined by Mrs Sara Greenwood BHSAI. The school was delighted to welcome back many foreign pupils again this summer with students from France, Italy and China coming to study

Adult and Children’s riding lessons for all abilities 10am–8pm Monday to Friday Weekends: Club sessions for children Adults and children’s private lessons from 3.30pm Hacking available for competent riders every day. Telephone: 01749 880233 e-Mail: info@divoky.co.uk • Website: www.divoky.co.uk Manor Farm, Downhead, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 4LG

6 Parent Talk October 2017

with Pat. The team are also waiting to hear the results for the National Rural Business Awards in which they have been shortlisted for the Best Rural Sporting Business. This award looks at many aspects of each business and enables the team to talk about their work with the National Trust on Collard Hill where the Large

Blue Butterfly was reintroduced into the UK after dying out here; the Divoky horses have helped together with a small herd of Dexter Cattle kept by Pat and Martin, partners in the riding school. The large Blue Butterfly has had its best year ever on the hill with record numbers of eggs being counted at the end of the season.

25th October: Family Fun: Museums Week – all things Egypt! American Museum, Claverton Museum, Bath, BA2 7BD. 12 noon-3pm. Drop in, age 3+. 01225 460503 25th-27th October: Tidy Up. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. A very tidy dance-theatre performance that gets messed up. The world can be a messy place – but as we try to organise our way through it, we can discover things anew. Wed 1pm & 4pm, Thurs-Fri 11.30am & 3pm. 01225 823409 26th October: Den Building – see 24th Oct entry. Barrington Court, TA19 0NQ. 11am-3pm. 01460 241938 26th October: After Dark – Family Fright Night. Dunster Castle, Dunster, TA24 6SL. See 24th entry. 6.30-9pm. 01643 821314 26th October: Model boats on the Mill Pond. Hestercombe Gardens, Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton, TA2 8LG. Come and watch beautiful model boats on the Mill Pond and have a go with radio-controlled ones as well. No need to book, just come down to the Mill Pond. 50p per child. Normal admission applies. 10am-4pm. 01823 413923 26th October: Family Fun, Somerset Rural Life Museum, Chilkwell Street, Glastonbury, BA6 8DB. Family Fun – crafts and activities for all the family. Normal museum entry fees apply. 11am-1pm and 2-3.30pm. 01458 831197 26th October: Exmoor Ponies Halloween Activity Afternoon. The Exmoor Pony Centre, Ashwick, Dulverton, TA22 9QE. Come and join in the fun with the Exmoor Ponies and support a local charity. Ride and/or Groom a pony. Crafts, activities and refreshments. Follow the spooky Halloween Trail and claim your treat. No booking required and no entrance fee. Small charges for individual activities. Minimum age for pony rides, 4 years old. 12 noon -3pm. 01398 323093 26th-28th October. Fantastic Fireworks, Longleat Grounds. 6.30pm All in one day tickets purchased for 26th-28th Oct. include fireworks displays. Entry to Longleat is free for Annual Pass Holders on these dates but advisable to prebook onine to guarantee entry to the park. Last entry at 5.45pm. 01985 844400 27th October: Stargazing Evening at Hestercombe Gardens, Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton, TA2 8LG. Join the experts from the Somerset Levels Stargazers for an introduction to astronomy. Meet in the Bampfylde Hall at Hestercombe and then head outside to explore the night sky and locate the stars using telescopes and binoculars (bring your own if you have them).

Adults: £6 Children: £3. 01823 413923 27th October: Hairy Maclary & Friends. The Brewhouse Theatre and Arts Centre, Taunton, TA1 1JL. With music, singing and several of your favourite Hairy Maclary stories, this show is a must for the whole family. 1.30 & 3.30pm. 01823 283244 27th October: Make a leaf owl, Glastonbury Abbey, Magdalene Street, Glastonbury BA6 9EL. Craft session with autumnal leaves. Normal admission applies. 11am-1pm. 01458 832267 27th October: Woodland Wonders Family Fun Friday at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, BA5 2RA. 10.30am-3pm. See p4 for details. 01749 988111 28th October: Ghost Tours. Dunster Castle, Dunster, TA24 6SL. Join one of the tour guides and see the castle as never before. Listen as your guide tells tales of ghosts and apparitions, leading the way though the candlelit castle. 6.30pm – midnight. Age: 12+. Tours from 8pm onwards – adults only. 01643 821314 28th October: Brean Fireworks. Bean Leisure Park, Brean Sands, Brean, TA8 2QY. Fantastic family night out! 01278 751595 28th-29th October: Blown Away. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. A windy day, a brand new kite, for Penguin Blue a maiden flight. With a trio of acrobatic penguins, alongside magical puppetry and live music, Metta Theatre’s ‘Blown Away’ is a joyous stage adaptation of Rob Biddulph’s award winning children’s book. Sat 11.30am & 3pm, Sun 11am & 2pm. 01225 823409 28th-29th October: Pumpkin trail at Ham Wall. RSPB Nature Reserve Ham Wall, Ashcott Road, Meare, BA6 9SX. Follow a Spooky Pumpkin trail, find the creepy creatures in the reedbeds, but beware what’s lurking around the corner. £2 per trail includes small prize. 01458 860494 29th October: Frightening Faces. Barrington Court, TA19 0NQ. 11am-3pm. Let your imagination run wild with the help of a visiting face painter. 31st October: Ghost Tours. Dunster Castle, Dunster, TA24 6SL. Join one of the tour guides and see the castle as never before. Listen as your guide tells tales of ghosts and apparitions, leading the way though the candlelit castle. 6.30pm – midnight. Age: 12+. Tours from 8pm onwards – adults only. 01643 821314 31st October: Halloween at The Museum of Somerset. Taunton Castle, Taunton, TA1 4AA. Explore the museum on the spookiest night of the year. 5.30-8.30pm. 01823 255088

OUT & ABOUT

Pumpkin carving at Monkton Elm

Fun day out for all the family World Horse Welfare is celebrating 90 years of helping the world’s most vulnerable horses. Their Somerset-based Glenda Spooner Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre is home to around 65 horses at various stages of rehabilitation and is one of four UK-based Centres run by the charity that rescue, rehabilitate and rehome vulnerable horses from all over the country. The Visitor Centre and farm is open from 11am-

4pm on Wednesday to Sunday all year round and the friendly team offers visitors a warm welcome. Catering for the whole family, including your canine friends, the farm is a wonderful day out for people of all ages, with idyllic walks around the farm and lake as well as a children’s play paddock. The bistro is open from 10am Wednesday to Sunday with an outside dog friendly eating area, serving a varied selection of hot and cold

food prepared using quality, local ingredients. Situated just off the A303, Glenda Spooner Farm is also the perfect location for arena hire, and function venue to hold celebrations, meetings in its purpose built conference facility, and corporate events. Visit their Facebook page to be kept up to date with what’s on for you and your family. For more information or to make a booking for an event call 01935 841442 World Horse Welfare Glenda Spooner Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre, Brincil Hill, Kingsdon, Somerton TA11 7LA www.worldhorsewelfare.org

Children from across Somerset can have a go at carving their best ghoulish faces into pumpkins when Monkton Elm’s pumpkin carving workshops for youngsters return during October half-term. The workshops will take place in the Garden Centre’s ‘grow your own area’, which will be decorated with a spooky Halloween theme. Monkton Elm’s staff members will be on hand to assist children in carving their designs. Children will not actually handle knives. These carving workshops are perfect if you are looking to keep youngsters occupied during the half term holidays. As the workshops are within sight of the Pondside Café, mum or dad can treat themselves to a hot drink and cake, or why not stay for lunch in The Elm Tree Restaurant. Children’s lunch box meals are available for just £4.20, and there is a free children’s play area to round off your visit. Monkton Elm will also be

holding a Pumpkin Trail where parents and children will search the garden centre for carved pumpkins. They will be able to collect letters from the lanterns to solve an overall word puzzle. All completed forms will be rewarded with a sweet treat.

The pumpkin carving workshops will cost £3.99 per child, and they run from Monday 23rd October until Sunday 29th October from 10am – 1pm and from 2pm until 4pm. The Pumpkin Trail will cost £1 per child and will run all day on the same dates.

Half term and Halloween at Puxton Park Set in the beautiful Somerset countryside, our 50 acre family adventure park is one of the largest visitor attractions in the South West providing fun and variety with something to offer everyone. This year, we have big plans for October Half-term, Bonfire night and last but not least, Christmas! With Halloween approaching, from the 21st of October, we have our schedule full of spooky and hair-raising activities to keep you on your toes all week long! Youngsters can attend our spooky disco and get up close and personal with snakes, tarantulas, lizards, turtles and hissing cockroaches at the Creepy Crawly Show. You won’t want to miss the Crocodiles of the World on the 25th of October. Throughout this week, we will be hosting pumpkin painting, face painting and coloring contests. Join us for lots of Halloween fun, but only if you dare…. On the 4th of November, we will be hosting our annual Fireworks Extravaganza! You won’t want to miss this fabulous display of colorful fireworks and entertainment. Puxton Parks Winter Wonderland opens on the 25th of November where you will find Father Christmas and his

elves working hard preparing presents for Christmas! The park will be adorned with colorful and joyous decorations that will soon put

you in the Christmas spirit. Come join all the fun this year at Puxton Park. Visit Puxton. co.uk for more information or call 01934523500.

Parent Talk October 2017 7

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

Book Bag

visit www.pare

t on their hair? What do witches pu Scare spray

What do you get if you cross bambi with a ghost? Bamboo What does a skeleton order at a restaurant? Spare ribs

What’s

Where do mummies go for a swim? To the dead sea t? ui fr ite ur vo fa t’s a ghos Booberries

What kind o f makeu goblins wea p do r? Mas-scare-a

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They attach in seconds - just a simple hook and loop will fit them to almost any sized bar and they look adorable. Kids will love having them on their pushchairs and with six fun colours to choose from, you will find just the right pair to suit you and your buggy. Specification Winner of a Bizzie Baby 2016 Silver Award, a 'Mum's Love' Award and a

Grannynet Gold medal. Fun ladybird design. Hard wearing with a stretchy silicone rubber strap which fits thin and thick bars. You get two LED lights in each pack - one with white LEDs to face forwards and one with red LEDs to face backwards (just like a car). This is a pram/pushchair accessory and not a toy. The battery included in all Buggi Lights and Scooti Lights products is contained

Visit www.parenttalk.org.uk for the answers in a securely sealed, plastic casing and concealed in the silicon shell of the light fitting. Buggi Lights comply fully to all applicable European Safety Standards.

Parent Talk have 3 packs to give away. For your chance to win, look at the question below and visit www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter by the closing date of 18 October 2017.

Buggi lights are available in how many colours? a) 2 b) 4 c) 6 www.parenttalk.org.uk

Can you spot the 5 differences

Book Bag NEWS Can you spot the 5 differences

Visit www.parenttalk.org.uk for the answers

WIN

one of three dvds

For the Tibetan Mastiffs living on Snow Mountain, a dog’s life has a simple riff; Guard a peaceful village of wool-making sheep from the thuggish wolf Linnux (Lewis Black; Inside Out, The Aristocrats) and his rabid pack. To avoid distractions, Mastiff leader Khampa (J.K Simmons; Whiplash, Spider-Man) forbids all music from the mountain. But when Khampa’s son Bodi (Luke Wilson; Legally Blonde, Charlie’s Angels) discovers a radio dropped by a passing aeroplane, it takes just a few guitar licks for his fate to be sealed: Bodi wants to be a rock’n’roll star. Yet that means defying his father’s wishes, heading to the city and locating the legendary – and reclusive – musician Angus Scattergood (Eddie Izzard; Cars 2, Valkyrie), who needs to write a new song and fast. If Bodi can put a band together, help Angus with his song, and defeat the wolves’ plot to take Snow Mountain, his life will be in tune. Bodi will become what he’s always dreamed of being: More than a dog…more than a rock god… he’ll be a ROCK DOG! Sky Cinema, Altitude and Timeless are proud to present Rock Dog, releasing on DVD from 16th October, 2017. Running Time: 90 minutes Cert: PG Parent Talk have 3 x DVDs to give away. For your chance to win, answer the question below and visit www. parenttalk.org.uk to enter by 12 noon on 11 October 2017.

What type of dog is Bodi? www.parenttalk.org.uk

10 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 First Steps Day Nursery School (all year from 8am-6pm). For children from 3 months to 5 years. Offering a caring, educational and safe environment for your child. All fully qualified staff. T: Elaine Garland 01749 346733 E: fsdaynursery@btconnect.com 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 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

NURSERY

for the pupils in our care”. For more information, contact Fiona O’Neill on 01963 442606

directory

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 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 www.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 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, to 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

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 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

Girls. Small classes mean that every child receives high quality individual attention; your child will not get ‘lost in the crowd’ at Sunny Hill. They will be treasured; we are interested in the individual child, they have our time and our attention. Wrap around care available. To arrange a visit or taster session please contact Mrs Carrie Crook in Admissions on 01749 824400 or email admissions@brutonschool.co.uk Taunton Nursery School for children from 0 years. Flexible Nursery Education, 7.30am- 5.45pm. 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 Rydal Day Nursery, Clevedon, Pre-Nursery. EYFS can be redeemed is bright, fun and full of learning against our fees. We would love opportunities and happy children. to have your children from 2 years Run by a fully qualified dynamic team, in upwards. Open 50 weeks per year. a Makaton friendly setting and are "I Can The Folly Nursery and Pre-School Please enjoy our website stands on the edge of the village of accredited". Outstanding Ofsed July www.wellington-school.org.uk Ilton in the beautiful South Somerset 2015. Open 8-6pm Monday-Thursday, or call Rachel Debenham countryside and caters for children 8am-5.30pm Friday all year. Two and to arrange a visit. ranging in age from very young babies, 01823 668700 Three year old funding accepted. right up to primary school age and www.rydaldaynursery.co.uk during school holidays until age 8. 01275 342352 Little Wellies Term time All Folly children can stay for anything Toddler group. Sunny Hill Pre-School and Pre-Prep from 2 sessions a week to 5 full days, Open to all pre-school children every with cooked nursery meals if you wish. Thursday morning 9.15-11.15am, (Ages 3 - 7) We are open from 7.45am until 6.00pm Wellington Prep School Hall. £3 per Sunny Hill welcomes pre-school and and will accept the extended primary school-aged children, taking child and £1 per additional child girls from 3-11 years old and boys aged government funding either for term weekly charge. time only or over 51 weeks a year. 3-7. Situated in the beautiful market Contact Marian Bassindale for town of Bruton on the 40 acre campus 01460 55488 more details 01823 668700 www.follynursery.co.uk of 'big sister' school, Bruton School for prep@wellington-school.org.uk The Bush Nursery, Pilton. Set in an idyllic location with extensive grounds, we provide bespoke care to children from 1-5 years. With no more than 12 children per session, children have truly individual care. Open 8-6 all year round. Vivien Goode 01749 890327

To book our Nursery Directory, please call 01458 250461

Perfect Family Holiday! "a fantastic place to stay..." 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

10 Parent Talk October 2017

Rose Award winning Torridge House Cottages is just the place to bring your family. So much to do to keep everyone happy, such a relaxing and good feel environment; and tremendously good value, with no extra charges. The little community of 8 cottages are scattered around gardens of wide open grassy spaces which are huge and interesting enough for great play and open and level for little ones to safely enjoy. For many, many years now Torridge House farm Cottages have been highly

recommended by families of all ages. Many return year after year to enjoy the daily animal feeding and hands-on baby rabbit, guinea pig and mouse, cuddles and care time, and the comfortable and naturally friendly atmosphere; also the countryside of this beautiful part of North Devon which is blessed with sandy beaches, cycling opportunities, all sorts of walking, in woodlands, wildlife reserves, on commons, moors and coast and on the stunning Tarka Trail. Back home at your cottage

there is scope for play both inside as well as outdoors. The summer outdoor heated swimming and toddler pool, the “pitch” for ball games, hedge row walks, toddler toys and barbecues. Indoor, table tennis, pool, sand and home play and a library room with books and dvds. Youngsters of all ages want to stay all day with the animals or just to play. Play and stay! The cottages are much loved, very well kitted out and very much enjoyed. For more information see www. torridgehouse.co.uk .

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Why wouldn't you choose New Design and Technology suite allows Hazlegrove pupils Pre-School Gymnastics? to prepare for the modern world Why choose Gymnastics for your child? Gymnastics is a ‘foundation sport’ recognised as teaching fundamental basics necessary to succeed in all levels of all sports. That’s to say, children get stronger, faster and more flexible whilst also developing balance, coordination and power. Coaches from all  sports appreciate the benefits   

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Pre-School Gymnastics 

Gymnastics Freestyle 

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Award winning Gymnastics for all in Yeovil

Tel. 01935 425682

www.orchardgymnastics.co.uk

gained by children that have participated in gymnastics from an early age. But more importantly than this, gymnastics is FUN – turning upside down and learning new skills is part of every child’s nature and they’ll love the opportunity to perform on apparatus including beams, bars, trampoline, vaults and foam filled pits! Orchard Gymnastics are a multi award winning club offering pre-school classes for children from walking upwards. Young gymnasts follow a fun, interactive programme which introduces fundamental basics such as climbing, swinging, balancing and vaulting along with skills including rolls, handstands and cartwheels. Themed weeks and regular awards from British Gymnastics ensure enjoyment and a sense of fun and achievement for all. There are classes to suit all ages including pay as you go ‘Play Gym’ sessions and structured ‘Rolling Rascals’ classes either with a parent or independently with coaches. Prices start as low as £5!

Based in Yeovil, Orchard Gymnastics operate from one of the South West’s largest and most comprehensively equipped gymnastics facilities and offer classes in gymnastics and freestyle for children of all ages and abilities: from complete beginners to National Champions!

With spaces available now you can find further details and take a virtual tour at www.orchardgymnastics.co.uk

Hazlegrove pupils have returned this term to a newly refurbished and extended Art and Design Centre. The extensive works have created a fabulous new art room where light and space abound and have allowed for a Digital Design Suite to be incorporated into the heart of the facility. This complements the previous work in transforming the Design and Technology (DT) Room to include equipment for ComputerAided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM), for working with thermoplastics and sewing machines. Digital Design and Realisation is now firmly recognised as an integral part of the DT curriculum. It is enhancing pupils learning in DT by challenging them to carry out deeper research and improving the quality of the practical work they produce. “We want to give pupils a clear insight into key contemporary processes that are being used within the manufacturing industry today” says Head of DT, Bonnie Barton, who has spearheaded these changes. The children have wholeheartedly embraced the new approach to working

in DT and the products they are producing include iPad speakers, USB casing for memory sticks and model cars with sublimation printed body-work designs using Thermochromic (heat-changing) paints. 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, they are looking ahead and preparing their children for an increasingly technological and challenging world.

Visitors are welcome to see the new Art and DT facilities at the Open Mornings on Saturday 7, Tuesday 10 and Saturday 14 October or at any other time by appointment. Please call Sarah-Jane on 01963 442606 for more information.

Hazlegrove Pre-PreP

Open Mornings

7, 10 and 14 October at 11am

As your child sets out on the biggest adventure of their educational life, they deserve the very best start. Hazlegrove children are happy children. Please call Sarah-Jane on 01963 442606 to book into one of our open mornings or to arrange a visit. We look forward to meeting you!

Good foundations are everything...

Parent Talk October 2017 11

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Exposure to Science: Open Mornings at A Powerful Potion? Perrott Hill By Emily Whyte, Co-Founder of Mini Professors (www.miniprofessors.co.uk)

6th and 7th October

What’s the best thing about Perrott Hill? “The friendly atmosphere and the view,” says Catherine in Year 8. “And the fun lessons,” says classmate Florence. Naturally, we agree. Children thrive here because of the excellent teaching, experienced boarding teams and breadth of extracurricular opportunities. We’re committed to investing, too: as well as opening our brand new Tinker Lab and Science suite this year and expanding our classroom and playground equipment, we’ve also launched our inaugural

Children’s Literary Festival (jampacked full of award-winning authors and illustrators), expanded our bus routes and had lots of fun creating a new video for our website. But don’t just take our word for it! Come and experience Perrott Hill for yourself at our next Open Mornings on Friday 6th and Saturday 7th October. You’ll get to see our music school in full swing, experience our fantastic forest school programme, kick back in the new boarding common room and meet the stars of the show – our incredible pupils and staff.

For more information or to book your place, please contact our Admissions Secretary, Nola Stone, on nstone@perrotthill.com or call 01460 72051 www.perrotthill.com

A co-ed day and boarding school, offering excellence in education for rising 3-13 year olds

Autumn TERM OPEN MORNINGS

Friday 6th & Saturday 7th October 2017 Come and see our school in action, and meet our pupils and staff.

12 Parent Talk October 2017

You are warmly invited to come and explore our fantastic school on the South Somerset/ Dorset border, including our new boarding facilities and our Music School on the edge of the woods. Rated ‘EXCELLENT’ in every category in our latest ISI inspection. To book your place, please contact our Admissions Secretary, Nola, on 01460 72051 or email admissions@perrotthill.com Perrott Hill Nor th Perrott Somerset TA18 7SL www.perrotthill.com @perrotthill /perrotthillschool

Science is all around us, from the smart phone that delivers our messages to the alarm clock that wakes us up in the morning; to the food we cook, the clothes we wear and the medicines we rely on to treat infection. In fact, it is impossible to imagine a day, or indeed a world without it. Because science is very much a part of our daily existence, we often overlook what is right under our nose. As such, science is an ideal environment to encourage our children to ask questions, experiment, take risks through trial and error and also, to observe the natural world around them. Curious by nature Natural curiosity is undoubtedly a big part of scientific development and something that our children possess in abundance, which means they learn eagerly about things that are directly accessible to their senses. If children are repetitively encouraged to do something hands on, whether experimenting, pouring liquids, threading or measuring substances, their confidence in handling and manipulation will also gradually improve and grow, as will their fine motor skills.

Regular exposure to science is something that any parent can support on a daily basis because it is all about giving our children the headspace and freedom to explore and make their own observations; and also to allow them to succeed with praise and encouragement. Children can cope with challenging, but attainable tasks. Science by its nature is often judged by its complexity, but it is important not to ‘dumb down’ scientific terms and phrases because as your children hear words and combine experiences, their knowledge and science vocabulary will naturally develop. That said, children do have a shorter concentration span than adults. No scientific topic need be out of bounds for children but it must be explained in very simple terms. Parents can easily relate science to everyday objects and experiences and using hands on experiments to make science more interactive and engaging, means you can avoid overloading your child with too much information. Inspired by wonder It’s worth remembering that children are excited and

amazed by the simplest of things (or at least the things we as adults take for granted), the awe of a magnet picking up a metal spoon, or an ice cube melting can be fascinating for them. They love experiments too because they are so hands-on, they can get involved, get their hands dirty and make a mess while learning and exploring the world around them. This kind of science-based play is also ideal with small groups of children because it can help to support and develop many social skills too, such as listening, taking turns, sharing, making friends, speaking out and working together. Whether your child loves to be in the midst of experimenting or prefers to stand back and observe, children are never too young to learn about science and the more exposure they have to it, the more familiar they will become with trying new things. The world of science is so much a part of our daily lives as adults but to our children every experience is new and wonderful so it is easy to have fun with experiments and watch as your child progresses and develops new life-long skills.

Why not try some of these exciting but simple science experiments with your child at home? 1. The marvel of ‘static electricity’ - Try rubbing an inflated balloon on your head and showing your child how marvellous static electricity can be, by picking up pieces of tissue paper with the now ‘charged-up’ balloon. 2. Create a ‘colloid’ - Try mixing two parts cornflour, to one part water, to create a strange gooey substance called a colloid. It is solid when it is squeezed into a ball and moved around quickly but goes completely runny when it is held still. 3. ‘Explosive’ fun - Try making a simple volcano using an old water bottle. Simply fill it half full of vinegar, top it up with a little water and then add one teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda and watch it explode! You may even want to add a few drops of red food colouring to add to the effect of lava.

Top tips for switching energy providers With winter soon approaching, now’s the time to take a look at your energy plan and see if your provider really is offering the best deal. These top tips from TOTO Energy will help you to switch energy providers in the most pain-free way possible. If you’re concerned that switching energy providers is going to be a hassle, or will take a lot of time, then you shouldn’t be. Research from Which showed that nine out of ten people who switched energy providers found the process straightforward, and if it’s going to save you money then it’s certainly worthwhile. If you’re seriously considering changing energy suppliers, you should… Compare tariffs Before you make the switch, you’ll firstly need to compare other providers and tariffs on the market to see if you can find a better deal. Money Supermarket, Compare the Market and uSwitch are just a few of the websites that you can use to compare. Simply input a few details such as your postcode and the current amount you spend on energy, and the comparison site will do the rest.

Gas and electricity prices differ from regions, and some suppliers only serve certain areas, so the plans available to you may be narrowed down. There are lots of different factors to consider when looking at tariffs. For example, you might want: ● a flexible tariff that you can get out of at any time ● an environmentally-friendly tariff ● the cheapest tariff available Top Tip: Research what the customer service rating is like for any potential new supplier. Check if you’ll incur a fee Once you’ve done the research and found a cheaper plan you’d like to switch to, it’s worth contacting your current energy provider to see if you’ll be charged a fee for cancelling your deal mid-contract. You need to check whether you have a fixed-term contract; this lets your supplier charge you a fee to leave - this is called an exit fee and you can check it on your energy bill. Ofgem rules state however that if you leave your contract 49 days or less before its due to end, then your provider can’t charge you, so this’ll be

dependent on how early you leave your contract. Gather your paperwork together Before you make the call to your chosen energy supplier, make sure you’ve got all of your paperwork together. Make sure you have the following information to hand: ● Current gas and energy provider ● Name of your tariff ● Amount currently spent on gas and electricity ● Bank details Alternatively, you can apply online. Once you’ve spoken with your new supplier, they will organise the switch for you, although you’ll still be responsible for settling the bills with your old supplier. The transfer should take no more than three weeks to complete. Top tip: Change to online bills. You could save money. Take a meter reading Your new supplier will ask for a meter reading on the day of transfer – it’s important you do this so that you’re not charged for any energy you used prior to the switch. You’ll also need to provide them with energy meter

reference numbers, which are known as ‘MPRN’ or ‘MPAN’ numbers. Once you’ve changed your supplier and got your new plan set up, it’s worth checking out different energy deals every year to make sure that you’re not losing out on money. If you’re set up on a fixed plan, then note down the end date so that you can start shopping around a couple of months beforehand if you find something better. Finally, it’s worth mentioning that once you enter into a contract with the new supplier, you still have 14 days to change your mind and cancel the switch. If you cancel your contract after 14 days, you may be charged a fee.

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

New appointment Transition from Reception to Year One at All Hallows at Queen's College All Hallows are delighted to announce the appointment of Richard Barnes as Deputy Head of the School. Richard will be taking over from Dr Trevor Richards, who has been promoted to the Head of All Hallows. Richard joined All Hallows in September from Hazlegrove Prep School, where he has been Head of the Middle School since September 2011. Whilst at Hazlegrove, he played a leading role in the school’s Academic Committee and taught History, Geography and English. Prior to that, Richard gained over 15 years of Senior Management experience having worked in the education sector, both in the UK and Australia, since 1998. Educated at The Blue School, Wells, Richard then undertook a Law Degree at the University of Liverpool, before moving to Australia where he completed a Bachelor of Primary Education Studies at Charles Sturt University. As well as being a qualified teacher, Richard also studied for a Masters in School Leadership, in which he gained a Distinction. Dr Trevor Richards said “I was not only impressed by Richard’s

intellectual qualities and his professional skills, but also his warm personae, track record of innovation and promotion of success, as well as his educational values. I know that Richard is very excited about

joining All Hallows and playing a central part in ensuring we maximise children’s progress, as well as helping them to grow into responsible, considerate, fun-loving, confident and principled young people.”

At Queen's College Pre-Prep we are proud of our seamless transition from Reception to Year One where the children move from the Early Years Foundation Stage into Key Stage One. Each class has a teacher and a teaching assistant and our small class sizes allow staff to really get to know each individual child, understand their specific needs and tailor the teaching accordingly. Our staff are extremely caring and professional, patiently explaining concepts and ideas so that every child feels supported, enjoys their learning and is confident to contribute. We adapt our teaching to each child's preferred learning style, ensuring progress and development. We focus on developing and enriching children’s interests in an active, multi-sensory learning environment. Consistent praise and encouragement contribute

hugely to creating happy, confident and successful learners. The Year One curriculum continues to build on the reading and writing skills developed during the Early Years Foundation Stage. Particular importance is placed on developing the children’s speaking and listening skills and collaboration, ensuring a strong foundation for their learning throughout Key Stage One.

Topic-based learning allows curriculum areas to be covered in a dynamic, stimulating and interesting way with the result that the children are enthusiastic and excited about their learning. Our approach to teaching encourages our pupils to be curious about their world and keen to learn and provides a thorough grounding in and understanding of the key skills of communication, language, literacy and mathematics.

Come and see us in action – book a personal tour by emailing junioradmissions@queenscollege.org.uk or calling 01823 278928.

THE independent DIFFERENCE ON YOUR DOORSTEP. We can offer your child: • the freedom to learn through feeling safe, happy and valued • small class sizes, single year groups and personalised learning • the opportunity to discover their creative talents through the arts, drama and music • excellent coaching, superb facilities, and competitive sports opportunities • the opportunity to develop a strong moral compass • transport available from surrounding areas.

COME AND VISIT US ALL HALLOWS, CRANMORE HALL, EAST CRANMORE, SOMERSET, BA4 4SF Parent Talk 1 follow us1017.indd on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk allhallowsschool.co.uk

20/09/20172017 11:45:2013 Parent Talk October

BOOK REVIEW

Editor’s choice Julius Zebra By Gary Northfield Published by Walker Books After being shipwrecked on the shores of Egypt and mistaken for a Horse God, Julius can’t believe his luck. Very soon, he and his bedraggled friends will be living it up in the city of Alexandria! Of course, nothing ever goes quite so smoothly for Julius & Co. On a visit to the tomb of Cleopatra, Felix the Antelope is unable to resist a rather lovely looking treasure for his beloved rock collection…He pockets a jewel and a curse immediately falls upon the group. The Egyptians slowly begin to realise the truth: this Horse God isn’t quite what they thought he was, which leaves Julius the Zebra gladiator having to fight for his life…again! Pop-Up Shakespeare By Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor Illustrated by Jennie Maizels Published by Walker Books Turn the pages and marvel at the dramatic pop-ups and lift-the-flaps that bring to life every one of the playwright’s Comedies, Histories, Romances and Tragedies, as well as his poems. Packed with hilarious jokes, side-splitting summaries and funny facts, this is the complete works of Shakespeare as they’ve never been seen before.

Meg and the Romans By David Walser, illustrated by Jan Pienkowski Published by Puffin Meg and Mog meet a new friend – a Roman who is in need of help! But will Meg’s spell get him to London? Find out in this colourful new adventure and learn more about what Romans were really like… Just as fun, quirky and packed throughout with all the trademark humour of the original Meg and Mog tale, Meg and the Romans is perfect both for new fans or as an addition to any Meg and Mog collection.

The Royal Rabbits of London: Escape from the Tower By Santa Montefiore & Simon Sebag Montefiore Illustrated by Kate Hindley Published by Simon & Schuster Little Shylo Tawny-Tail is proud to call himself one of the Royal Rabbits of London, a secret order who live under Buckingham Palace and fight evil across the world. But high up in London’s famous skyscraper, the Shard, the horrible Ratzis are plotting to cause chaos during a visit from the President of the United States. And when the Grand Burrow is attacked and Shylo is kidnapped, it looks as though they might just manage it! Can Shylo escape in time to save the day? 14 Parent Talk October 2017

CURIOSITY The Story of a Mars Rover By Markus Motum Published by Walker In 2012, an unusual space traveller caught the world’s attention. Crowds gathered in Times Square and all over the world to cheer as Curiosity, the Mars Rover, landed on the surface of the red planet. Its mission: to find signs that life could survive on Mars. With the world entranced by this intrepid rover, Curiosity: The Story of a Mars Rover is the must-have book for anyone who wants to explore Mars. This stunningly illustrated non-fiction book tells the story of the incredible search for life on Mars with a unique and accessible voice – that of the Rover itself. Foxcraft, The Mage, book 3 by Inbali Iserles Published by Scholastic Foxcraft: The Mage, the final book in the trilogy, follows Isla on her continued adventures. Isla has arrived at the Snowlands to find her lost brother, Pirie. The tundra is a harsh place and the wolves who live within its icy kingdoms are harsher still – but Isla’s flair for the mysterious arts of Foxcraft has grown tremendously. The young fox is on a mission of grave importance. A cruel and powerful fox known as the Mage is using his own mastery of Foxcraft to summon an ancient threat. If he succeeds, then more than just Pirie’s life will be at stake. Book of Bones By Gabrielle Balkan, Illustrated by Sam Brewster Published by Phaidon Discover which animal has the biggest bone, the lightest bone and even the spikiest bone in Book of Bones, the unique volume of record-breaking bones! Captivatingly written as a brilliant guessing game, it uses page turn reveals and touch-andfeel superimposed skeletons to bring the bones to life! Young readers are invited to guess the identities of ten unique animals from their distinctive skeleton and bone-based trivia. Readers acquire bone knowledge and become detectives to distinguish the animal from its skeleton, using labelled drawings and engaging animal descriptions to help guessing! Combining children’s love of record-breaking data and animal trivia, Book of Bones is perfect for inquisitive minds and natural history lovers! Rock of Ramion By Frank Hinks Published by Perronet Press Ramion is a magical place where anything can happen and frequently does, and the most extraordinary characters suddenly emerge. In this collection of enchanting fantasy stories, three boys travel the realm of Ramion on incredible adventures with their cat Snuggle, escaping from insidious foes: the witch Griselda who longs to eat them, and the Princess of the Night, a keen collector of real human sculptures.

History: A Map Colouring Book Illustrated by Charlotte Farmer Published by Buster Books Children can colour their way through time with this new history of the world colouring book. These bright and brilliant maps feature illustrations of everything from famous battles to fantastic inventions and amazing architecture to world leaders. Bite size historical facts accompany each picture with the last page featuring a timeline of some of the best bits of history.

Father Christmas’s Fake Beard By Terry Practchett Published by Doubleday Have you ever wanted Christmas to be different? Turkey and carols, presents and crackers – they all start to feel a bit … samey. How about a huge exploding mince pie, a pet abominable snowman, or a very helpful partridge in a pear tree? What if Father Christmas went to work at a zoo, or caused chaos in a toy store, or was even arrested for burglary? Dive into the fantastically funny world of Terry Pratchett, for a festive treat like no other. These ten stories will have you laughing, gasping and crying (with laughter) – you’ll never see Christmas in the same way again.

Florence Frizzball By Claire Freedman, illustrated by Jane Massey Published by Simon & Schuster Florence’s curly-whirly, wild and crazy hair couldn’t be more different from her brother Ben’s sleek and shiny do. She begs her mum to let a hairdresser try and tame it, but when she gets the restyle she’s after, will Florence be happy with the outcome? Claire Freedman’s rhyming text and Jane Massey’s gorgeous illustrations perfectly combine to create laugh out loud moments with a gorgeous sibling relationship at its core and delivering an important message about being comfortable in your own skin – and hair! Star Finder for Beginners Foreword by Maggie Aderin-Pocock Published by DK Designed with a simple approach to star-hopping in mind, the easy to follow, step-by-step maps encourage budding astronomers to identify ‘pathfinder’ stars. Using these as their starting point, readers can then follow four ‘paths’ and practise their star-hunting skills to discover more than 20 constellations. With colourful, graphic illustrations and clear, accessible text to guide them, fact-filled panels also reveal the fascinating stories behind the most famous constellations.

CLASSIFIED Sketchy Muma By Anna Lewis Published by Quercus This gorgeous little book charts the various bewildering stages of becoming a mother, from those tell-tale blue lines in the pregnancy test, to labour, birth, coming home and venturing out. Breastfeeding nightmares, eating dinner with one hand, soft play hell and chronic sleep deprivation – but also the sheer beauty of falling in love again and the amazing discovery of what it’s like to have a family – these are all captured in Sketchy Muma’s glorious drawings. Help Your Kids With Growing Up By Professor Wilson Published by DK Broken down into 12 key chapters, Help Your Kids With Growing Up covers every aspect of development from the age of 10 upwards. These include Growing Up, Female Puberty, Male Puberty, Healthy Body, Healthy Mind, Achieving Potential, Digital Life, Wider World, Families, Relationships, Sexuality and Sex. Combining no-nonsense text, engaging illustrations and bright graphics, the book has been designed in a way which makes information both clear and accessible, and easy to use with handy ‘teen hints’ and ‘parents tips’ highlighting key points throughout. To Siri, with Love By Judith Newman Published by Quercus Some might consider Judith Newman’s life unusual. She and her husband keep separate apartments – his filled with twin grand pianos as befits a former opera singer; hers packed with the clutter and chaos of twin adolescent boys conceived late in life. And one of those boys is Gus, her sweet, complicated, autistic 13 year old. With honesty and humour, To Siri with Love chronicles one year in the life of Gus and the family around him – a family with the same crazy ups and downs as any other. And at the heart of the book lies Gus’s passionate friendship with Siri, Apple’s ‘intelligent personal assistant’. Warm, wise and always honest, Judith Newman shows us a new world where artificial intelligence is beginning to meet emotional intelligence – a world that will shape our children in ways both wonderful and unexpected. Little Soldiers By Lenora Chu Published by Piatkus In 2010, Lenora Chu, her husband Rob and toddler Rainer, moved from LA to the Chinese mega city Shanghai. When Rainer was given the opportunity to enrol in Shanghai’s most elite state-run school, Lenora and Rob grabbed it. A transformation began almost immediately: The boy became increasingly disciplined and obedient, but also more anxious and fearful – Lenora began to question the system. What the teachers were accomplishing was indisputable, but what to make of their methods? Were Chinese schools pumping out robots as the critics say, or was the system really superior? And is China’s education system really what the West should measure itself against, much less emulate? While Rainer was at school Lenora embarked on a reporting mission to answer these questions in a larger context. Through a combination of the personal narratives and thoughts of teachers, parents, administrators and students, Little Soldiers unpacks the story of education in the emerging giant that is China.

Revealed: The top 10 bedtime stories to help get your kids to sleep If you struggle to get your little one to sleep at bedtime, you’re in luck! Bed and sleep specialist, Time 4 Sleep, has revealed the top 10 children’s books that are most likely to help your kids drift off to sleep, with the minimum of fuss. Classic children’s book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, is the bedtime story most likely to help your kids fall to sleep according to research by Time 4 Sleep. The book, which was first published in 1969 has maintained its popularity for more than 40 years, and is accompanied in the top three by Harry Potter (first published 1997) and other classic favourites such as The BFG (1982) and Goodnight Moon (1947). The study discovered the top 10 stories every parent should be reading to their child at bedtime are: 1. The Very Hungry Caterpillar (1969) 2. Harry Potter (1997) 3. The BFG (1982) 4. Goodnight Moon (1947) 5. The Gruffalo (1999) 6. Winnie the Pooh (1926) 7. Llama Llama Red Pyjama (2005) 8. Where the Wild Things are (1963) 9. Guess How Much I Love You (1994) 10. The Cat in the Hat (1957) According to one in three parents (33%), the most important benefit of reading to children at bedtime is to spend quality time together.

down time can have powerful and beneficial calming effects on our mental wellbeing.” Jonathan Warren, director at Time 4 Sleep, added: “Reading to your child at bedtime is such a lovely tradition. It’s great to see that so many parents are choosing classic children’s stories that they likely enjoyed when they were children too. “A good bedtime routine is extremely important. Ensuring your child has a nice bedroom environment will help them to sleep better. Choose a fun bed and style it with their favourite designs and colours to create a space where the little ones will love spending time in.” For more information about the importance of a bedtime routine, please visit the Time 4 Sleep website

Over a fifth of parents (21%) feel it helps to settle their child down before bed and a further 14% feel that the main benefit is to educate their child. More than half (54%) of parents also believe that reading to their children before bed is the most important part of their child’s nightly routine and 43% said that they read to their child most nights. Dipti Tait, Hypnotherapist and Author, said: “Children respond well to routine and familiarity. Bedtime doesn’t have to be regimented and orderly, but if a child senses consistency, then the routine can be a reassuring

concept and keeps them feeling comfortable, calm and happy. “Storytelling is very important for the brain too. The brain, regardless of age, enjoys a good story as it activates our imagination. When we begin reading tales of adventure, fantasy and mystery to our children, this creates a positive pathway for the brain to follow. Once we drop into sleep, the brain naturally falls into REM, the dream state, so quite often the storytelling helps the child begin the REM process and often encourages sleepiness. A simple 10-15 minutes of this

here: www.time4sleep.co.uk/blog/the-importance-of-a-bedtime-routine/

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NOVEMBER issue copy deadline 18th OCTOBER 2017 For advertising please call 01458 250461 Parent Talk October 2017 15

World Horse Welfare

Glenda Spooner Farm A fun, free family day out!

Activities take place Looking to book a Free Family Day out through the School Birthday Party with meet the horses, spend holidays, keep an eye a difference! Contact time in the play paddock on the website for Glenda Spooner and enjoy lunch in our dates and details Farm now for more Bistro information and prices Open Wednesday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sunday, all year round Bistro open from 10am - 4pm Farm open from 11am - 4pm World Horse Welfare Glenda Spooner Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre Brincil Hill, Kingsdon, TA11 7LA t: +44 (0) 1935 841442 Follow us on Facebook