Parent Talk September 2015 Issue

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Parent talk

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

September 2015 Volume 22 Issue 8

Back to school ✱ Clubs and classes ✱ Nurseries

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Parent talk contents

Family pages Clubs and classes Events Education, Information Book Bag News Education, Information Classified

p3-4 p4-5 p6 p7-9 p10-12 p13-18 p19

competitions Ambi Bird and Fish

p12

Editor Advertising Production October deadline

Tamsin Humphreys Juliet Young Sarah Harmer 23rd September 2015

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Parent Talk Newtons, Churchstanton, Taunton TA3 7QF

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Dear Readers...

So it’s the start of the new school year which means, once again, many parents will feel they’re back on a little hamster wheel with the inevitable round of getting to school on time, lunch boxes and generally racing against the clock. For children on the other hand, the new school year brings a definite buzz with many starting school for the first time, others moving to secondary school, and some just moving up a class; each child experiencing a change in some form or other. This month, you’ll see there are plenty of clubs and classes with some giving free taster sessions so something to bear in mind once everyone has settled into the new routine. If you’re thinking of returning to work and looking for something part time, Juliet Turnbull from 2to3days.com offers some top tips – see p19.

Best wishes and enjoy the start of the school year.

Tamsin

Editor

Competition winners

SALE • SALE • SALE

All models 20% to 50% off Adults, Kids and Work Shoes

HUGE Crocs footwear SALE Daily 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday - Friday until September 30

At 6 Ilton Business Park Near Ilminster, Somerset TA19 1DU

Tel: 01460 258 040 e. sales@esunproof.co.uk www.sunproof.co.uk

Proud sponsors of Ilton Cricket Club

SALE • SALE • SALE

Crocs footwear sale

Chou Chou Birdies Fay Smith, Frome

Taunton Flower Show Laura Hall, Bishops Lydeard Rachel King, Creech St Michael

Crocs footwear sale

Pro-coaching Claire Tucker, Cheddar

FAMILY FAMILY FAMILY

Parent Talk September 2015

3

Huge Crocs sale now on at Sunproof From 25 August until September 30th - Sunproof Ltd, Ilton Showroom,TA19 9DU Sunproof have well over 50 Crocs footwear models on sale at up to 50% off retail price. Sunproof have spent the entire summer at a series of festivals and County Shows.

You may have seen their Crocs – liveried marquee at Bath and West, Devon, North Somerset, Sherborne Castle or any one of the 25+ events they attended this past summer.

Crocs remain a massively popular brand in the UK, mainly because of their supreme comfort – and now Sunproof are offering the remaining Crocs footwear stock at up to 50% off list price.

Choose from bestsellers for men, women as well as for kids.

For ladies, there are flipflops,

sandals, flats, deck shoes, clogs, boots, mules and work shoes.

For men, there are leather clogs, flip flops, slippers, moccasins, boots, work shoes, deck shoes and loafers.

For kids, there are clogs, flipflops, sandals, beach shoes, and much more.

Our showroom is in Ilton Business Park (Satnav TA19 9DU) – parking is plentiful and we are open Mondays through Fridays 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.

Our showroom also stocks discounted lines by Rukka rainwear of Finland, Nokian waterproof boots, and we are offering our range of Cozyosko footmuffs at clearance prices.

We have Shelta Australia

beach tents on sale.

Don’t forget to order your iron–on back to school nametapes while you are there – the warehouse is also home for Premier Nametapes.

Sunproof Limited, telephone 01460 258040 or email sales@sunproof.co.uk 6 Ilton Business Park, Ilton, Ilminster, Somerset TA19 9DU

A garden retreat for parents at Monkton Elm PARENTS from Somerset are being invited to a garden centre in the county to relax and unwind for a day after their children go back to school this month.

Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre in Monkton Heathfield has an on-site Craft Centre, Shop, Plant area and brand new restaurant with a dedicated coffee corner.

Andrew Pitman, Store Manager at the award-winning, family run garden centre near Taunton, said: “We think parents deserve a wellearned rest after what can be a stressful six weeks so once the kids are back at school we’re inviting them to treat themselves and spend the day with us as well as check out everything we have to offer.

“Our Craft Centre is great for anyone wanting to start a new project as the darker evenings draw in. They can get lots of expert advice from our helpful staff too.

“They can also browse our plant area, which is brimming with seasonal plants so if they fancy a bit of a garden makeover this is the place to be.

“We also opened our brand new restaurant earlier in the year so people can really make a day of it when they visit us.

There is a large serving island, which includes a deli counter and juice bar, and a self-service drinks area. We serve hot and cold food so it’s perfect for popping in for lunch or even an evening meal.

“The restaurant also has a cosy coffee area with comfortable seating, which is ideal for relaxing in midmorning or afternoon with a tea or coffee and a good book or newspaper.”

For more information, please visit the garden centre, which is located just off the A38 at Monkton Heathfield between

Bridgwater and Taunton, call 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

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

FAMILY FAMILY FAMILY

4 Parent Talk September 2015

The Helen Laxton The cost of Divorce and Family Break-up School of Dance The show featured hundreds of local children aged from 2 ½ years to adults performing a variety of dance styles including Ballet, Hip Hop, Street Dance, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Lyrical, Jazz, Tap, Disco, Rock and Roll and Musical Theatre.

The Helen Laxton School of Dance was founded in Yeovil in 1987. Since this date thousands of children have learnt to dance at the school and many have gone on to have successful careers in dance. Students have gained places at all of the top Vocational dance and drama schools and Universities in the UK. Past pupils are currently performing in The West End, in ballet companies, on television, in films, in promotional work, modelling and teaching all over the world.

Pupils from the dance school are always in demand to perform locally with both amateur and professional companies. This year our students have performed professionally with Pasha Kovalev and The Strictly Come

Pictured are pupils from The Helen Laxton School who have recently performed in “Everybody Dance 2015” a 6 show dance, music and singing spectacular which took place at The Octagon Theatre in Yeovil and which raised thousands of pounds for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Dancing Company, with Andy Abraham and with Evolution Productions Pantomime at The Octagon Theatre.

We have had incredible examination results once again this year, 100% pass rate with many pupils gaining Distinctions at all levels, a great credit to the children and to our wonderful dedicated and enthusiastic teachers

We hold classes in Yeovil, East Coker, Norton Sub Hamdon, Crewkerne, Chard, Sherborne, South Petherton & Ilminster.

For more details about classes telephone Helen Laxton LRAD, ARAD, AISTD, AIDTA, RTS on 01935 863865 or visit www. helenlaxtonschoolofdancing. com

Perform your best at Somerset School of Performing Arts The Somerset School of Performing Arts trains children from the age of 5-18 years in acting, singing, stage dance, recording, microphone and audition technique and lots more.

Our highly specialised and professional staff teach our pupils the correct techniques required to become the best performers that they are able to be. Many of our pupils have gone on to work in the performing arts industry, in the West End, on TV, in advertising, modelling and teaching.

For those pupils who do not continue into the profession we aim to give them confidence, teach them new skills, allow them to make new friends and have lots of fun.

Our classes run on Saturday afternoons in Yeovil during term time from 2-5pm.

The high cost of using solicitors often adds to the severe stress of a divorce or separation. Usually, solicitors charge up to £200 or more per hour and their fees can reduce family assets at an alarming rate. In addition, the mere act of going to a solicitor, and the adversarial process then followed, draw otherwise sensible people into protracted and expensive disputes.

One problem arises because solicitors can only act for their client; the husband or wife. This means that they cannot work with both parties together in order to seek a sensible settlement. Instead, solicitors talk to “the other side’s” solicitor, immediately doubling the cost. The process usually becomes contentious as each solicitor has to “win” something in order to justify his or her fees.

This process seems designed to promote ill- will between husband and wife.

Whatever good qualities they saw in each other that drew them together in the first place are gradually forgotten.

They are urged to emphasise the worst aspects of their once life time partner in order to improve the eventual settlement.

Finally, any eventual settlement reached (usually years after they had started)

is diminished hideously by legal costs. In other legal cases, there is another party to help bear the costs; in family law cases, the same family bears the costs for both sets of solicitors.

Probably the most important result of the current adversarial process is that not only the financial security of children is put at risk but also their emotional security. While it may be impossible to shield children from all the effects of their parents separating, it makes it much worse if the separation becomes a legal dispute with each party seeking a victory over the other.

On the other hand, while many people would prefer not to face the problems caused by using a solicitor, they find it too daunting to handle a divorce and related matters on their own.

There is another way to seek legal help with divorce and related matters – Bridge Law. As a consequence of the way we operate, we can offer low rates and fixed costs. This is partly because we do not carry the high overheads of firms of solicitors and partly because the client carries out much of the work involved directly, only assisted and supported by us when necessary. The partner involved, Stephen David (pictured), is a barrister

with direct Public Access Accreditation and so can accept instructions without the need of a solicitor. Stephen is regulated by the Bar Council and has full professional indemnity insurance as well as wide experience of family and commercial matters.

Bridge Law provides an affordable alternative to high street solicitors; an alternative that provides high and personal client care with very considerable savings in legal fees. Stephen is based in Taunton and can be contacted on stephendavid@bridgelaw. co.uk or 07740 786232.

He is the local representative in Somerset for Bridge Associates, 27 Old Gloucester Street, London, WC1N 3XX.

National Gas Safety Week 2015

Pictured are pupils from The Somerset School of Performing Arts at their latest 6 show sell out at the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil.

For more details please contact Helen Laxton on 01935 863865 or see www.thesomersetschoolofperformingarts.com or find us on Facebook

The Helen Laxton School of Dance Royal Academy of Dance Ballet, Adult Ballet Toddler & Pre School Dance (from 15 months) ! Hop, Street Hip Dance, Disco Tap, Lyrical, Contemporary !

Performance Squads, Hip Hop Crews The Somerset Youth Dance Company

THE SOMERSET SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS Professional Tuition in

The Helen Laxton School of Dance Excellent Examination results, lots of performance opportunities,

great career of prospects, lots of fun! elen Laxton School Dance For details telephone Helen Laxton LRAD, ARAD,

AISTD, AIDTA, RTS on 01935 863865 www.helenlaxtonschoolofdancing.com or find us on Facebook

Every year, thousands of people across the UK are diagnosed with Carbon Monoxide poisoning, which is why Ei Electronics will once again be supporting National Gas Safety Week, which runs 14th – 20th September.

The campaign, which is an annual event, aims to raise awareness of gas safety and highlight the importance of taking care of your gas appliances.

So what are the causes of Carbon Monoxide poisoning?

The answer is simple. Badly fitted and poorly serviced gas appliances can all cause Carbon Monoxide poisoning, not to mention the risk of fire and explosion!

At present, 23 million households in the United Kingdom, Isle of Man and Guernsey currently use gas

Acting, Singing, Stage Dance, Recording, !

Microphone & Audition Technique Improvisation, Choreography, Directing and much more! Lots of performance opportunities, lots of fun!

Former pupils now performing and teaching all over the world Classes held at The Gateway, Addlewell Lane, Yeovil on Saturday afternoons for children from 5 – 18 years.

For details please contact Helen Laxton ARAD, LRAD, AISTD, AIDTA, RTS on 01935 863865 www.thesomersetschoolofperformingarts.com

Royal Academy of Dance demy of Dance Ballet, Adult BalletBallet, Adult Ballet Pre School Dance 15 months) Toddler & Pre(from School Dance (from 15 months) Hop, Street Dance, Disco Hip Hop, Street Dance, Disco

for heating, hot water and cooking, yet we take it for granted that our boilers, cookers and gas fires are safe.

So what can we do to stay protected? Firstly, all gas appliances should be safety checked every year and regularly replaced, by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Secondly, the only way to detect CO is with a certified to EN 50291, audible Carbon Monoxide alarm, such as the Ei204 or Ei207 from Ei Electronics.

In addition to an alarm, always ensure that there is enough ventilation for your gas appliances, to allow them to burn correctly and make sure you are not blocking any air vents that provide an air supply to the gas appliance.

Carbon Monoxide is a highly poisonous gas. Despite having no colour, taste or smell, the consequences could be deadly. The Ei204 and Ei 207 Carbon Monoxide alarms can be purchased from all good retailers, including Wilkinson’s & Amazon.

BRIDGE LAW Legal Advisers The affordable low cost alternative to Solicitors Providing high quality low-cost fixed-fee advice and services in legal matters, including divorce, and representation in court.

Local representation in Taunton: Stephen David, Barrister.

Mobile: 07740 786232 Email: stephendavid@bridgelaw.co.uk Bridge Law www.bridgelaylaw.co.uk 27 Old Gloucester Street, London WC1N 3XX

Tel: 0207 692 0893

Why choose Gymnastics for your child? Gymnastics is a ‘foundation sport’ recognised as teaching the fundamental basics necessary to succeed in all levels of all sports.

That is to say, children get stronger, faster and more flexible whilst also developing balance, coordination and power. Coaches from all sports appreciate the benefits gained by children that have participated in gymnastics from an early age.

CLUBS CLASSES CLUBS

Six ways Karate gives children a smashing start at School But more importantly than this, gymnastics is FUN – turning upside down and learning new skills is part of every child’s nature!

So where can you go to benefit from all the above?

Orchard Gymnastics are a multi award winning club offering classes for all ages and levels from complete beginners to National Champions! – Play Gym sessions for under 5s, structured Pre–School &

General Gymnastics classes, or how about ‘My Club’ where teenagers are given freedom to choose skills, apparatus and direction they want to follow?

Our Freestyle Gymnastics classes, popular with boys, fuse traditional gymnastics with kicks, leaps and tricks made famous through activities commonly practiced in urban settings.

5

Parent Talk September 2015

Why learn Taekwon-Do? Making Holidays Fun!

Every parent wants the best for their child; Evolution Martial Arts provides children with a unique way to keep fit, control weight and become healthier. It’s not only physical improvements Adult classes are also available you will see; Tae Kwon Do for all levels from complete teaches respect, discipline beginners upwards! and helps to instill self Orchard are based in Yeovil confidence. Your child will and operate from one of the develop into a well rounded South West’s largest and most individual and with guidance comprehensively equipped from professional instructors gymnastics facilities, with they will be including learning a beams, really apparatus useful – to stay fit and bars, sport trampoline, vaults and keep safe.pits.

Also your child foam filled

With spaces available for a September start you can find further details or take a virtual tour of the gym at www.orchardgymnastics.co.uk

It’s hard to keep children entertained for the entire summer holidays, so why not give yourself a break and become send them on one of the will more focused, fantastic courses Millfield concentrate for longer and has will to offer.from For activities offer benefit improvedonsocial for ages 2-17, there really is skills. something All Evolution for haseveryone. something courses takeand place either for everyone withatregular Millfield School in Street gradings and colour belt or Millfield Prep School in progression you will see your Glastonbury. child positively improve and Help keep the kids active strive for their Black Belt. with a wide range of sports Parents can learn a lot courses including football, from Martial Arts too! Relieve badminton, cricket, tennis, stress and burn calories, make rugby, netball and athletics. friends and boost self esteem; All of these courses are why notto joinboys one ofand our classes open girls of today.

Call 07888 all abilities, and732312 with no or visit www.evoma.co.uk experience necessary it’s a great opportunity to try something new.

There are also three fantastic hockey courses to

choose from – a girls’ course, a boys’ course and a mixed junior course, as well as hockey academies for older children.

New for 2015, the Millfield Golf Course is open to players aged 10-14 who have some golf experience, providing a fun and challenging week of improving technically alongside games and challenges. All areas of the game will be covered with use of Millfield’s driving range, pitch and putt and shortgame area.

If your kids would rather an all-round course with

something different to try every day, then the MultiActivity course is an excellent choice. Activities range from a variety of sporting and nonsporting activities including arts and crafts, swimming, trampolining, t-shirt painting and many more.

For the younger ones (ages 2-4), Mini-Multis promotes fun and enjoyment in a safe environment. The course is led by staff with experience specific to this age group and includes messy play, musical activities, Forest School fun, painting, dance, stories, and more.

01458 444 320 info@millfieldenterprises.com www.millfieldenterprises.com

Turn your Pre-Schooler’s world New Kids Karate upside down at Orchard Gymnastics Class Opens Summer fun at The Princess Royal in Wells Sports Complex 

Karate is more than just learning punches and kicks, it is also a great way to help children develop and achieve success at school. Karate:  ◆ is a great physical activity  Pre-School which helps them de-stress   Gymnastics after a hard day at school  ◆ improves their mental focus  whichGymnastics helps their school work Freestyle ◆ improves their self-esteem  Parties to say NO to bullying  ◆ Karate etiquette teaches  them politeness towards  teachers and other children  ◆ improves their confidence to confront challenges at school ◆ is a great way of improving children’sAward balance, as well winning as fine Gymnastics and gross motor for skills all - helping them in PE and inexcel Yeovil Games. 

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



Tel. 01935 425682

www.orchardgymnastics.co.uk

   

Of course, the atsame What’s on at offer The time Karate teaches Princess Royal children Sports self defence – skills which Complex Wellington could onethis day summer save their School, tolives. keep Classes for 5-13 year olds are the children entertained? taught in Bridgwater, Wells, Glastonbury and Street –by we a MULTI-ACTIVITIES Black master with which over have Belt a range of days 35 teaching experience. willyears include: sports in the Classes PAYG, morning,area allfun swimwhich and isthen far fairer and easier to multi-activities in the pay.

For more details phone afternoon.

Sports will include: 07811 944 (or tennis, leave hockey, 185football, a cricket, message),badminton or email clive@ and georges-inkwell.com. basketball. Multi-activitiesYouin can visit ourwill Facebook the also afternoons include activitieswww.Facebook.com/ such as: water bomb page war, capture the flag,which white somersetkaratekids hole, manhunt, caterpillar has all the information about press up, as laser and our classes, well maze as videos much Karate more... and what the about RIFLE kidsARCHERY, get up to.

SHOOTING, LASER CLAYS and TEAM BUILDING – all

Why choose Gymnastics for your child? Gymnastics is a ‘foundation sport’ recognised as teaching the fundamental basics necessary to succeed in all levels of all sports.

That is to say, children get stronger, faster and more flexible whilst also developing balance, coordination and power. Coaches from all sports appreciate the benefits 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!

Orchard Gymnastics are a multi award winning club make pre-school a welcomeclasses returnfor to offering our Adventure X days.

We children from walking upwards. will alsogymnasts have our popular Young follow offa site interactive, survival daysdevelopment as well with fun, a new location!

Laser Clay programme which introduces shooting is only available to basic fundamental movement children 10 years and above.

QUAYWEST TRIP x2 – following last year’s fantastic success we are running two days to the south Devon waterslide park. The Quaywest trips have a later finish – MORE TIME ON THE SLIDES!

Karate is a great martial art for kids to learn. It teaches them essential self defence skills, and being a traditional martial art it also encourages concentration, fitness and politeness.

Karate also creates a firm foundation for future martial art trainingno matter what style they decide to learn later on.

patterns and gymnastic adventure.

Programmes develop fundamental basics Bring wetsuits and swinging, rings to including climbing, avoid the queues! balancing, jumping and LOYALTY – Signed landing whilstBONUS also introducing up for our Easter camps 2015 gymnastic skills including rolls, then receiveand 10% off everyday handstands cartwheels. you book.are classes to suit all There ACTIVATE SPORT – we will again be hosting Activate Sport this summer who will once again be running the ever popular Andrew Flintoff Cricket Academy and NEW this year – the Louis Smith Gymnastics Academy!

Go-Kart Party - the perfect experience for boys and girls MILLFIELD HOLIDAY COURSES

MAKING HOLIDAYS FUN!

SUMMER HOLIDAY COURSES:

Mini-Multis ages 2-4 Multi-Activity ages 5-14 Football ages 5-14 Cricket ages 7-14 Hockey for ages 7-14 (three courses available, ages vary) Netball ages 7-14 Tennis ages 8-14 Rugby ages 8-14 Athletics ages 8-16 Badminton ages 8-16 Golf ages 10-14

Parent Talk

If you arehave looking for a party We also Hockey Academies for school years 9-12 to prepare for JRPC or new season that is really different, exciting, great fun and 01458 444 320 hassle free then look no www.millfieldenterprises.com further than Go-Kart Party.

Nathan and hisfor teamaoffer Looking day out with the kids ? both boys and girls of 4 -10 Head over to our website years a unique opportunity www.parenttalk.org.uk to to race battery powered gofind what’s on in your area! 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 Available indoors in time and will feel a real sense numerous leisure centres of achievement when they and sports halls across pick up their certificate and Somerset, or even outside at possibly the Go-Kart Party your home, Go-Kart Party is Best Driver trophy at the end accessible all year round at a of the party! venue near you.

talk

KIDS CAMPS

The Princess Royal Sports Complex Wellington School The Princess Royal Sports Complex Summer 2015 (8-14yrs) Wellington, Somerset

01823 668718

www.wellington-sport.org.uk

01823 668718 www.wellington-sport.org.uk

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

This new class is held every Monday 4.30-5.30pm in the Seager Hall, Wells United Church, Union Street, Wells.

There is ample parking in the ages unstructured Union from Street car park. ‘Play The Gym’ whereand parents class sessions is for boys girls assist children on all aged 5-12.

Now is the an gym’s ideal time for kids join Rascals as the apparatus, to a to Rolling class is just starting.

‘Tumblers’ class Unusually where for kids nowadays, your littleactivities gymnast works parents pay as they go - a far independently with coaches. less complicated to pay.

Themed weeks way and regular It’s onlyand £5/lesson (£4from for badges certificates those onGymnastics benefits, including British ensure Tax Credits, thoseofwith enjoyment andand a sense fun moreachievement than one child training). and for all.

ToOrchard begin with kids can wear Gymnastics are loose fitting clothing. based in Yeovil and operate To find out more information from one of the South please visit the and Facebook West’s largest most page www.facebook.com/

comprehensively equipped gymnastics facilities, with apparatus including beams, bars, trampoline, vaults and foam filled pits.

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



  (you don’t somersetkaratekids  have to be part of Facebook 

Pre-School Gymnastics

 to visit the page).

This has lotsGymnastics more information about the Freestyle new Wells class, as well  Parties as information about the  more established classes in  Bridgwater, Street, and   Glastonbury.

It also has lots of other great resources including videos of some of the kids performing their Karate, Award articleswinning about the benefits kids get and Gymnastics for videos all of some of in the great Karate Yeovil masters. Alternatively for Tel.information 01935 425682 more you can www.orchardgymnastics.co.uk phone/text 07811 185 944 or 01458 833 937. 

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KARATE KIDS

Wells Bridgwater Glastonbury Street For kids aged 5-12 year olds The Princess Royal Taught by master with over 32 years Sports Complex Wellington, Somerset teaching experience 01823 668718 www.wellington-sport.org.uk 07811 185 944 or 01458 833 937 (after 5pm) or email clive@georges-inkwell.com

Call Nathan on: 07703 719 402

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

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Parent

events

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. MARKETS . THEATRES . FAIRS . FETES . SHOWS . EXHIBITIONS . the cunning Fox, the eccentric old Owl and the party mad Snake on the way. Will the story of the fabled Gruffalo save Mouse from ending up as dinner for these wily woodland creatures? Armed with only a nut map and a little courage, Mouse must outwit them all, and after all, there’s no such thing as a Gruffalo – is there?

01934 645544 13th September: West Somerset Open Day. West Somerset Sports & Leisure Centre, Minehead. Open Day in partnership with Minehead Cricket Club and Minehead Rugby Club. 10am-3pm. Range of sporting activities to join in with including Kwik cricket, football, tennis tournament, dance session, soft play and more. Family day out with children’s activities available for free. 01643 708815 13th September: Peter Pan – Workshops and auditions.

Strode Theatre, Street. Be part of Glastonbury & Street Musical Comedy Society’s Christmas Show 2015!

Auditions 9.30am-5pm.

Further details www.gsmcs. org. 01458 442846 13th September: British Heart Foundation Glastonbury Bike Ride. Abbey Moor Stadium, Glastonbury. 8am-4pm. Head to the beautiful Somerset Levels for an unforgettable cycling day out. With 27, 48 and 67 mile distances to choose from, there’s a route to suit cyclists of all ages and abilities. 0845 130 8663

13th September: Somerset’s Curious Coast: Hurlstone Point Family Friendly Shoresearch Survey.

National Trust Holnicote Estate, Bossington. 12.00.

Join Somerset Wildlife Trust and Exmoor National Park Authority for some fun on the beach at our rock pool rambles and discover more about the wildlife of Somerset’s curious coast. See crunchy crabs, tiny topshells, stunning starfish, sea anemones and loads of slippery seaweed. Free event but booking essential. education@somersetwildlife. org 01823 652400 16th-20th September: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath. A family go on an expedition of a lifetime – running down the grassy bank, wading through the cold river, squelching over the oozy mud, stumbling into the dark forest, then peering into a cave…what will they find?

Little Angel Theatre brings Michael Rosen’s thrilling and funny adventure to life in this entrancing puppetry production with music. Age 2+. 01225 448844 18th September: The Choir (PG). Strode Theatre, Street.

The story of a talented boy struggling against the odds to find his voice – an inspirational drama for all ages. Eleven year old Texan Stet is already branded a trouble-maker when, after the death of his mother, he is sent to a prestigious East Coast music school to see if

his raw talent can be tamed by the school’s demanding choir master (Dustin Hoffman). 5pm and 7.30pm. 01458 442846 19th September: 5 a-side Corporate Charity Football Match. Caryford Fitness & Leisure Centre, Nr Castle Cary. 11.45am for 12pm kick off. Teams of 5 (plus 2 subs).

Qualified ref. £15 per team with all monies to go to local Somerset charity, Wooden Spoon - for disadvantaged and disabled children. To book your team and more information call 01963 350600 19th-27th September: Hello Autumn Garden Trail.

Hestercombe Gardens, Cheddon Fitzpaine, nr Taunton.

Explore Hestercombe as the autumn takes over the gardens. See the leaves turn golden and learn about which animals are embarking on their winter holidays to warmer climates. 01823 413923 26th September: Medieval Falconry at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells. 10am-4pm.

Hawks, owls and falcons show off their talents in thrilling flying displays. Learn who would have used these birds and talk to the experts who look after them. 01749 988111 26th September: Wellington Carnival.

Town centre, Wellington. 7pm.

26th -27th September: Frogs and Snails and Teddy Bear Tales. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath. It’s bear’s birthday tomorrow. His head is full of

excitement. How will he ever get to sleep? Bedtime stories, of course, weaving together tales of spring, summer, autumn and winter. Down in the shed at the bottom of the garden, someone is busy writing. Admist the snowwhite sheets and the odd socks of an everyday wash, lie the stories that reach to the heart of a child’s imagination.

A gentle play, by Lizzie Allen explores themes of time and the seasons, story-making and birthdays. Age: 3+. 01225 448844 26th-27th September: Weston super Mare Food Festival. The popular festival returns for its third successive year. 01934 813407 30th September – 3rd October: Bridgwater Fair. St Matthew’s Field, Bridgwater TA6 7HU. 10am-11.30pm.

Traditional fair, one of the largest funfairs in the South West, with many new and exciting rides plus many stalls on West Street Market. 0845 408 2540 3rd-4th October: Hurricane Boy. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath. A lonely boy lives alone, each day rebuilding his house from the rubbish whipped up by the winds. A girl appears and brings him through the gales and the rain. Together they share a summer of blue skies and warm sun. But when a hurricane takes her away, the boy has to find his way on his own. Age: 5+. 01225 448844

Weston super Food Festival

and encouraging its customers to eat lesser known and British fish species.

Visitors will be able to pick up a free copy of the MCS sustainable fish guide and glean some great tips on which fish to buy and cook. The Professional Demonstration Kitchen will focus on fish dishes too, showcasing menus that demonstrate how to make the most of some of the lesser known fish varieties that M&S champions.

In our Food Fun area you’ll find lots of different food themed activities to entertain the kids from cooking, marine conservation, to food themed Lego and iPad animation.

We’ve competitions too for everyone to enter from the very tasty Weston super Bake

Off to our wacky knitted fruit and vegetable competition and the World Vegetable Bowling Championships.

The Town Square sees the welcome return of popular foodie celebrity Mike Smylie’s Kipperland where visitors can learn all there is to know about the humble herring! Watch Mike prepare fish, and taste kippers direct from his live smokery. For the first time we are also delighted to welcome The Cockle Man who will be selling fresh fish and shellfish from the Dorset coast.

And for something a little less ‘fishy’ enjoy our wine and beer tasting sessions, try your hand at butter making, watch films and try dishes from many different countries at our Taste the World experience on Sunday. Check out our on-site Edible Festival Garden in the Town Square too, for inspiration on how to grow your own delicious produce in your garden, patio or window box.

The Weston super Food Festival is fun, free - and very, very tasty! Give your taste buds a treat! What’s not to like?!

5th September: Ham Hill Woodland Fayre.

Ham Hill, Stoke sub Hamdon.

Demonstrations of willow weaving, green woodworking, bushcraft and much more.

Take part in making things and enjoying the sideshows. Fun for the whole family. 07795 170271 5th September: Wellington Food Town. High Street, Wellington. 10am-4pm. A great day out for all the family, music and entertainment, excellent shops and stalls, the best food and drink from Somerset and Devon. 01823 661693 7th September: Peter Pan – Workshops and auditions.

Strode Theatre, Street. Be part of Glastonbury & Street Musical Comedy Society’s Christmas Show 2015!

Workshop 7.15-10pm. Further details www.gsmcs.org 01458 442846 9th September: Peter Pan – Workshops and auditions.

Strode Theatre, Street. Be part of Glastonbury & Street Musical Comedy Society’s Christmas Show 2015!

Workshop 7.15-10pm. Further details www.gsmcs.org 01458 442846 10th September: Dinkies Storytime. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath. ‘The Tiger Who Came to Tea’. 10am & 11am.

Join Jackie and Pooja in the ever popular Dinkies group as they bring favourite books to life in this fun storytelling session for pre-schoolers and their parents. Age: 2½ – 4years.

September 26/27th 2015 Winter Gardens and Town Square, Weston super Mare 10am – 5.30pm Admission Free Shortlisted for the national Young British Foodie Award and a finalist in the Love British Food ‘Bring Home the Harvest Awards, the popular festival returns for its 3rd successive year.

The festival will focus on local and regional produce showcasing all the wonderful food and drink that’s made the West Country famous.

As you browse, taste and buy your way around the festival

01225 448844 12th September: Frome Agricultural & Cheese Show 2015. An action packed family day out! Over 350 trade stands, Village Green entertainment, Country Pursuits Area, Rangemaster Kitchen Theatre, Livestock Village, Handicraft, Homecraft and Horticulture Marquee, Main Ring, Funfair, Cheese Pavilion, Fine & Local Food Hall and more…! 01373 463600 12th September: The World Wellington Boot Throwing Championship. The playing fields, Court Fields Academy, Wellington. Family fun day including dog show, bouncy castles, ice creams, cream teas, bar, hog roast, raffle and a variety of other stands. 07592 599086 12th September: Poetic Paws Fun Dog Show. The Masons Arms Pub, Lower Odcombe, Yeovil. 12.00, judging at 1pm.

Lots of different classes + BBQ, Beer Tent, Tea/Coffee & Cakes. 07800 867 585 12th September: Craft Fair.

Lytes Cary Manor, Nr Charlton Mackrell, Somerton. 11am5pm. Local craftspeople offering hand made gifts and produce from pottery, woodwork, textiles, photography, mosaic wall art and much more.

01458 224471 12th-13th September: The Gruffalo.

The Playhouse, Weston super Mare.

Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep dark wood in search of hazlenuts and meet

you’ll be able explore our bustling, vibrant, indoor and outdoor food markets and grab a tasty snack from our gourmet street food stalls.

There’s Real Ale and Cider Bars too where you can enjoy a locally brewed pint, and a very lovely vintage style Cocktail Caravan.

Relax in the Town Square and enjoy your purchases in our covered, outdoor eating area and live music marquee perfect for enjoying the festival whatever the weather. Visit the festival on Saturday and you’ll catch our quirky food themed Open Mic competition, and for

a small charge on Friday and Saturday evenings sit back and enjoy our food themed films beneath the stars, courtesy of the wonderful Backyard Cinema.

Appropriately for a seaside resort, this year’s festival will have a distinctly ‘fishy’ theme!

With sponsorship from Marks & Spencer, we are delighted to be supporting its Forever Fish campaign and will be working closely with the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) at the event. Through Forever Fish, M&S has made a pledge to help protect sea life, oceans and beaches, including fishing only from sustainable sources,

For the complete programme visit our website at www.westonsuperfoodfestival.co.uk For further information: Contact E: sally@westonsuperfoodfestival.co.uk T: 01934 813407 Mobile: 07713 831 927

Autumn Magic at Willowbrook Put some ‘Autumn Magic’ into your garden now! At Willowbrook Nursery and Garden Centre we have lots of fresh plants waiting to get into your garden. The pansy and violas are looking bright and colourful which can be complimented with wallflowers and the new selection of bulbs for next Spring. We also have a wide range of trees and shrubs for Autumn colour as well as lots of heathers.

You can keep warm while collecting the leaves to make

your home-grown compost. We have a selection of rakes and compost bins and just in case we have children’s wellington boots as well as some for the adults! The Café & Tea-rooms are open all day for either a full ‘Meaty’ breakfast, healthy salad or a tempting piece of cake and a cup of tea! Also don’t forget the Pet-shop, Richards aquatic centre and Winesolution wine shop. Why not come and pay us a visit, our friendly and helpful staff look forward to seeing you!

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

The Triangle of Trust

By Henry Price, Headmaster of Wellington School ‘Tell me about someone you understanding and recognition admire’ is a question that I of their qualities. Children see have asked numerous pupils and admire the ability and at interview. Some will speak hard work of their parents, but of a public figure, often a they also sense their parents’ sportsman or woman, and values and try to emulate explain in detail how they came them. to success. There is almost At Wellington, we strive always a clear realisation that to provide a top quality this took effort and practice academic education, a wealth and that there were setbacks of co-curricular opportunities along the way. It is not the and excellent pastoral care. destination that is admired, Beyond this, however, we but the journey. are also trying to build on the It is both notable and positive DNA and sense of warming, however, that the values, which has been set at majority of pupils immediately home. I do not believe that a respond with the name of school can instil these from a parent. What is quickly scratch, but it can help pupils clear is not only the love to test, broaden, reaffirm and and appreciation for their ultimately strengthen their parents, but also a strong values.

The success of education depends on many factors, but the relationship between the teacher, parent and pupil is vital. For many years, I have spoken about the ‘Triangle of Trust’, which simply points out the need for the school, home and child to work together. It’s obvious really, but problems mainly arise when communication breaks down and one of the three points on the triangle feels or becomes isolated.

I mention this because there seems to be more anxiety and uncertainty in parenting in our generation and I speak as a father of four young children as well as a Headmaster. The pace of our own lives and those

Cheekie Monkeys Nursery NEW! Term time only places available for children using the Early Years Entitlement. Come and use your Governement funding with us.

Our dedicated and highly qualified team, personal approach and purpose built facilities make Cheekie Monkeys a unique childcare facility in Ilminster.

Through play, the children explore and develop learning experiences which help them make sense of the world.

Children as ‘active learners’ are given the opportunity to explore and discover, think creatively and communicate with others in a safe and supported environment.

Our excellent pre school

of our children is quickening and we are undecided about whether we need to slow this down with the fear of being left behind or running ever faster to keep up. The need for partnership and the ‘Triangle of Trust’ has never been greater and I believe that parents and schools need to have confidence in themselves and each other in order to help children thrive.

Teenage years can be about pushing boundaries, but I prefer to see them as roller-coaster of self-discovery, which are as confusing for a child as for the parents. The teenage tunnel can be short or long, bright or dark, but there is always a light at the room offers children 2+ all that they require for a successful run up to school life. We have excellent links with local schools and operate a full transition process.

Local schools agree that our facilities and qualified staff ensure that children make excellent progress towards their Early Learning Goals and arrive at school with all the key skills they require.

We welcome children between 0 and 2 into our excellent Mini Monkeys room.

This is a nurturing and calming environment where your baby will get all the care and support they require. Every

Parent Talk September 2015

7

end. This is, however, when the triangle of trust needs to be at its strongest and values at their clearest; each teenager will go through this period once; each parent may go through it with a child on more than one occasion, but schools and teachers have seen pupils through it many times. For my part, it is one of the greatest rewards of being a schoolmaster and lies at the heart of education.

As with parenting, there are no magic wands in education.

Boundaries must still be set, resistance and punishment still used when necessary, but our children need our support, patience, encouragement, understanding and forgiveness as much as ever.

With a clear sense of values and a triangle of trust between teacher, parent and pupil, the future is bright. baby’s individual needs are met and home routines are incorporated within our day in order to make your child’s transition to nursery a smooth and happy one.

All children have unlimited access to a large secure

outdoor play and garden area.

We also provide an extensive, home cooked, healthy and nutritious menu.

Please contact Ali on 01460 52457 or visit our website wwwcheekiemonkeys. com for more information.

Cheekie Monkeys Ilminster

Pre-school & Nursery places available now

01460 52457 www.cheekiemonkeys.com

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8 Parent Talk September 2015

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

All Hallows nurtures independent, engaged learners

CHRISTIAN PREPARATORY BOARDING SCHOOL IN THE ROMAN CATHOLIC TRADITION WELCOMING GIRLS AND BOYS AGED BETWEEN 3 AND 13 YEARS.

Day and full boarding and flexi boarding Beautiful Estate setting in rural Somerset Superb academic results & scholarship record to senior schools Individual & holistic education Extensive sporting, creative & activity opportunities Forest school & outdoor education programme Contact us to arrange a personal visit 01749 881600 admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk

Exam results are important milestones in educational development, but they only reveal a partial insight into a learner’s profile. Does an A* tell you how engaged that child is in their learning? Does it tell you how much they enjoyed exploring that subject? How much they will retain and draw upon the information later in life? Does it predict how actively they will seek to further their knowledge once the exam result fades into the past?

Dr Trevor Richards is a trained Educational Psychologist, the first to be fully employed within a mainstream preparatory school environment. In his role as Director of Learning at All Hallows Preparatory School in Somerset, he is passionate about individualised learning and about creating truly independent learners rather than fostering a culture that teaches to exams: “Engaged learners are

Search: AllHallowssch

IN ALL AREAS

role in teaching children how to manage their minds and thought processes and how to problem solve effectively and creatively.

They also help to build resilience and to foster curiosity – important backbones of independent learning.

It is also important that children feel ownership for their successes and failures and that they do not allow a fear failure to prevent experimentation with learning. Effective feedback and communication are vital elements in achieving this goal.”

Dr Richards often receives feedback from prestigious senior schools which supports this approach. All Hallows children settle quickly and easily, contribute greatly to academic life and approach GCSEs and A Levels with confidence and resilience, invariably outperforming those from ‘exam coaching’ cultures.

Little Acorns to Mighty Oaks Acorn Day Nursery, Somerton provides a loving and caring childcare environment for babies and pre-school children.

Established in 1999, with purpose built premises in Somerton, we are all passionate about giving every baby and child in our care a safe, caring and fun nursery experience whilst they develop and learn new skills.

We truly believe we are nurturing the mighty oaks of the future and our goal is to ensure every little acorn we take care of is well nurtured and has strong roots from which to grow. ✤OFSTED ✤ registered ✤ages 3months ✤ - 5 years

www.allhallowsschool.co.uk

interested, active and selfdirecting.

They question, suggest new ideas, make decisions and share their learning. At All Hallows, we aim to instil a love of learning for life and to arm our children with the skills they need for independent learning. We do this in a number of ways.

Great efforts are made to ensure the curriculum is relevant and challenging and contains choice for the learners, which in turn increases engagement.

All Hallows was an early adopter of the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) – a thematic scheme with a great emphasis on developing key skill sets for learning. This is taught with great success in the Junior Department and thematic learning and innovative curriculum ideas pervade the school.

Lessons in topics such as critical thinking and mindfulness also play a key

Having had the opportunity to design our facilities from the ground up, every aspect of our accommodation has been thought through to ensure we are able to provide a safe, secure and nurturing environment for every child in our care. Our premises are tucked away in a quiet corner of Somerton Business Park, which offers excellent access and plenty of parking. From the moment you step through our secure entrance into the nursery you will be transported to a fun-filled, colourful and warm environment tailored to your child’s needs. We also have

Fun Learning Environment Organic Lunches

Tel: 01458 273705 Opening Times: 8.00am - 6.00pm Mon-Fri E-mail: acorndaynursery@btconnect.com Acorn Day Nursery, Somerton Business Park.

an outside play area and garden which gives us secure access to a lane from which we take regular outings.

We have pen-plan accommodation which allows us to foster a true community within the nursery, and also aids communication and interaction across age ranges. Low level partitions divide the open plan area into three main sections.

‘Big Acorns’ is the preschool area for children aged 3-4, with a ‘Little Acorns’ section for children aged 18 months to three years and a ‘Baby Acorns’ area for 3 to 18 month olds. A sleep room, with cots for babies, is separated from the open plan accommodation. At the centre of our open area is the kitchen where we cook healthy meals from locallysourced, organic ingredients.

If you would like more information or to make an enquiry, please feel free to get in touch with us. Telephone: 01458 273705 email: info@ acornnurserysomerton.com

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Parent Talk September 2015

9

Choosing the right Nursery for your child

By Kathy McLauchlan Head of Nursery and Pre-Prep, Taunton School There is so much to consider when choosing a Nursery for your child. How do you distinguish between cheap child care and quality Nursery Education?

Research has shown that the most effective nursery provision has Early Years teachers, strong leadership and practitioners who are highly qualified.

Look for a Nursery which is attached to an Early Years teaching centre as this enhances the provision and ensures all practice is up to date, vibrant, challenging and exciting. Only truly outstanding settings can be given this honour!

Choose a Nursery which is also steeped in a philosophy

or tradition, well established with a credible reputation avoid Nurseries which are just jumping on the bandwagon, more business orientated than child centred. Ask the questions about philosophy, practice and pedagogy.

We believe that the developmental rate of 0-5 requires different activity rooms - personalised space and cosy spaces. At Taunton School Nursery, we have four activity rooms, dedicated to specific ages and stages and the most important element

initially is that the babies and children are secure emotionally and happy.

It’s a good idea to start looking for a nursery as soon as you are on maternity leave. Nurseries like ours at Taunton School tend to be extremely popular, so don’t be shy about making enquiries, even if your child is still a babe in arms. We are now booking for 2016-17, although there are sessions available from September in our baby rooms as the children move on to their next room, every year.

If you would like to visit us or find our more, please contact our Nursery Administrator and Admissions Team on 01823 703300 or 01823 703309

Making screen time a win-win for kids and parents Smartphones and tablets haven’t been around all that long, when you really think about it. One minute we’re watching Steve Jobs on stage waving around a little black magic mirror, the next they’re a familiar part of our daily life as much as the smell of Starbucks - and not just for us, but even more so for our little munchkins, who pick up technology faster than you can say “Where’s my iPad?”.

What this means for parents is as clear as it can be worrying.

Sometimes, nothing comes in handy quite like a fully-stocked iPad. Take a plane with a three year old and it often helps to avert an inflight disaster. At the same time however, none of us want to see our child in front of a screen all day, no matter what they’re watching.

Hopster exists to solve this happy parent, happy child dilemma. It’s an app that helps kids learn through the shows they love, striking a perfect balance between learning and fun.

Open Morning 3rd October 2015 for 0–18 years 9:30am –12:30pm All welcome Hopster’s launched in December 2013 and has since built a huge fanbase, with over 300,000 UK parents using the app to keep their preschoolers entertained and stimulated.

It’s packed with oodles of hand-picked shows, including hits such as Ben & Holly’s

Little Kingdom, Thomas & Friends, and Bob the Builder, alongside fun learning games that keep kids stimulated between episodes - all in an ad-free world built just for kids, and on all their favourite screens. Find it on iOS, Android, Apple TV, and a host of other smart TVs.

Special offer for Parent Talk readers: Hopster would love to know what parents think about the app, so they’ve kindly sent us a special 30 day voucher code! Head over to hopster.tv/ promo and use the code PARENTTALK to get 30 days free!

For 0 -13 years contact 01823 703303 For 13 -18 years contact 01823 703700

www.tauntonschool.co.uk Pupil transport is available daily from all areas

Find out how we can offer your child more follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

welcome to your NEWS section

Book Bag NEWS

bringing you competitions, job tasters, boredom busters, interesting facts and everything topical...

11th September 1988 Roger Hargreaves, author of Mr. Men and Little Miss books, dies MR. BUMP A walking talking plaster.

Mr Bump is unbelievably accident prone and if there is something for him to bump into, or break, he will. He never stays down for long though and always comes up smiling.

The Book Follow Mr. Bump on an adventure…

FACT FILE

etres gh 300 m u ro th s e p go 1 Mr Bum a week! Ouch! ge a of band ittle Miss r called L te is s a s p ha sy peas 2 Mr Bum y’re like two clum the Whoops, ! d in a po sent ght a pre u o b e c n po ped into 3 Mr Bum , but then he bum ing it sh kle n it squa for Mr Tic and fell o t s o p p a lam to bits!

MR MEN ™ LITTLE MISS © 2015 THOIP (a SANRIO company). All rights reserved. www.facebook.com/mrmenlittlemiss Instagram: @mrmen_littlemiss Twitter: @MrMenOfficial www.mrmen.com

www.mrmen.com

Book Bag NEWS History MR. HAPPY

ist, d forever the optim Always cheerful an life. the bright side of Mr Happy looks on can in the dumps and He is never down s to to bring happines always be relied on any situation!

The Book Follow Mr. Happy on an adventure…

The inspiration for Mr Tickle was an innocent question asked by his son ‘What does a tickle look like?’ Hargreaves then drew a figure in orange colour with floppy arms and round body to represent a tickle.

At first, he had some problems finding a publisher but once he did, success was inevitable.

From their birth in 1971 the Mr Men and Little Misses have gone from strength to strength.

They identify with a multigenerational audience through self expression, colour, simplicity and humour.

Follow Mr Tickle through the rest of their history.

CT FILE

FA

at urn th p tip: T o on, try it! to ’s y p !G ap 1 Mr H pside down u ppy frown Mr Ha ckled ughing ti e c n ickle o stop la 2 Mr T h he didn’t c u m so ays! of for 2 d phobia has a How silly. y p p a !

3 Mr H s. Bananas a banan

Birth of Mr Tickle, Mr Greedy, Mr Happy, Mr Nosey, Mr Sneeze and Mr Bump 14 new titles launched including favourites Little Miss Curious and Mr Perfect

MR. TICKLE

press an irresistible Mr Tickle can never sup within his reach, urge to tickle everyone raordinarily long which, because of his ext y wide range. arms covers a very, ver racter but kind at He’s a mischievous cha ling to use those heart and he’s always wil people. long arms of his to help

The Book Follow Mr. Tickle on an adventure…

Little Miss titles first published

Launch of Mr Cheeky charity title in conjunction with Children Leukaemia Launch of the Glitter range Launch of Little Miss Christmas

Launch of Mr Christmas

Launch of Mr Birthday and Little Miss Birthday

3 new Little Miss titles published, Scary, Bad, Whoops and 3 new Mr Men titles published – cool, rude, good

LE

I FACT F

Red Nose Day charity title: Mr Funny’s Red Nose Day

le ion tab h champ ble to stretc a is a kle g ic T in r ! Be 1M s! player tennis s so far help m g his ar le! ke bein esn’t li tickling peop o d le k s ic T e k r li 2M nly . He o sh tickled od is fi urite fo kes his o v fa it ma ickle’s 3 Mr T ips. He says h c . d g n an xtra lo arms e

Launch of Mr Nobody Hello Kitty and Little Miss collaborate on their first fashion line, launched worldwide at Marks and Spencer’s

2014

www.mrmen.com

Little Miss Hug

40th anniversary!

Launch of new character – Little Miss Princess

2012

Mr Men & Little Miss collaborate with Stella McCartney to create a new character ‘Little Miss Stella’ and unveil a super cute seven piece kids collection all featuring Little Miss Stella herself

Book Bag NEWS There are 10 differences between these two pictures, can you spot them all?

Go to www.parenttalk.org.uk to see how you have done

WIN Parent Talk have 5 x

Ambi Bird and Fish to give away.

THE ICONIC AMBI BIRD AND FISH BATH TOYS ARE BACK The Ambi Toys Bird and Fish have been reintroduced by Galt Toys, bringing the iconic designs back to life and giving adults and children the opportunity to get their hands on these much loved bath toys once again.

Designed by world renowned British toy designer Patrick Rylands, the popular Bird and Fish bath toys were first introduced in 1969. The simple design contributed to Patrick being the youngest person to ever win the Duke of Edinburgh’s Prize for Elegant Design; now known as the Prince Philip Designers Prize.

Attractive to both adults and children, the Bird and Fish are very simple smooth shapes that are easy for small hands to grasp with a comforting and tactile quality, with only eyes for decoration. Based on Eskimo bone carvings in the British Museum, both bath toys contain internal ballasts keeping them perfectly upright as they bob and float in water.

a h haha

ha

Pupil: Sir, you just sat on some grapes.

Teacher: Ah, I thought I just heard something let out a little wine.

Head teacher: Who are you?

Pupil: Sadie Head teacher: Sadie who?

Pupil: Sadie magic word and then I’ll tell you.

Head teacher: And what is your name?

Pupil: Hutch Head teacher: Hutch who?

Pupil: Bless you, sir.

What disease do art teachers get?

Pencilitis.

What happened to the carpentry teacher’s car?

Wooden start!

The timeless Bird and Fish toys are icons in British design history and are permanently on display at the V&A Museum of Childhood in London. The re-launch will mean that children and adults can once again get their hands on these much loved Ambi designs. Each toy in the range has been designed to amuse, stimulate creative talent and educate young minds, exactly what a good toy should be!

The Ambi Toys Bird and Fish Bath Toys are suitable for children aged from 18 months and retail at £9.99, available from www.galttoys.com Parent Talk have 5 x Ambi Bird and Fish 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 23rd September 2015.

Who designed the Ambi Toys Bird and Fish?

What do you get if you cross the school bell with an alarm clock?

Something that wakes you up when it’s time to go home.

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Outstanding Results for Queen’s College Queen’s College, Taunton is celebrating another outstanding year of A-Level and GCSE results.

17 A-Level students achieved straight A*s and As and an impressive 72% of papers were graded A*- B. All of the Sixth Form students who applied for Oxbridge were successful and almost every student gained a place at their chosen university.

45% of GCSE papers were graded A* - A with eight students scoring eight or more straight A*s, preparing Queen’s students for further success in their A-Levels.

Head master Chris Alcock said; ‘’These are extremely pleasing results which reflect excellent teaching and are tribute to some exceptional work on the part of our students. We wish them well as they prepare to embark upon a diverse range of educational courses and career paths. ‘’ Amongst the Queen’s students celebrating their A-Level results is former Head Girl, Alice Mitchell. Alice

Parent Talk September 2015

13

Millfield Pre-Prep - a happy and vibrant school where children love to learn “The provision of children’s wellbeing is outstanding, and links with parents are excellent”.

Independent Schools Inspectorate

achieved 2 A*s and an A. She will be spending a year in industry at the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council before she applies to study Biological Sciences at Cambridge.

GCSE student Jacob Greenow scored 10 A*s and an A. As well as excellent

Parent Talk

Looking for a day out with the kids ?

Head over to our website www.parenttalk.org.uk to find what’s on in your area!

talk

academic results Jacob has recently returned from the European Youth Olympic Festival in Tbilisi where he swam for Great Britain. Jacob will continue to swim for the county and Great Britain whilst studying for his A-Levels at Queen’s College in September.

The Queen’s College Sixth Form Centre offers a range of academic choices and co-curricular opportunities, contact: 01823 340830 or email registrar@ queenscollege.org.uk to find out more.

At Millfield Pre-Prep we aim to inspire and engage each child to make the most of their talents and potential.

Small class sizes, experienced teachers, a broad range of subjects and activities, along with inspirational indoor and outdoor spaces, enable us to achieve this.

A thorough grounding in the basics of reading, writing and mathematics is combined with a dynamic topic based curriculum. Weekly lessons include French, swimming, PE, dance, music and cookery.

Our on-site Forest School is a big part of our outdoor learning programme, where children have the opportunity to find out about living things and explore taking risks. The messy mud kitchen is a favourite attraction and baking rolls in the bread oven, learning to cook over an open fire, making dens and sawing wood all add to their skills and growing sense of independence. The children also take regular walks through our own fields and apple

orchards, visit our ponies in the stables and grow vegetables in our ‘alittlements’.

Before and after school care means we are on-hand for early drop-off and later collection and there are over 20 weekly free after school clubs on offer including tennis, football, gym, chess, trampolining and working with clay. Paid for clubs such as riding, ballet and dance are also available, run by our

expert Millfield coaches. Fees can be partly offset by Early Years funding and the Tax-Free Childcare scheme.

The overall passion and desire to see children make the most of their potential motivates us in everything we do. Our aim is to see children find skills and interests they really love, giving them a confident platform for their whole learning experience.

We have Open Mornings on Friday 2 October and Saturday 3 October Visit our website for details and how to book millfieldschool.com/pre-prep

Queen’s College Open Days Nursery, Pre-Prep and Junior School 9:00am - 12:00 noon, Friday 9th October

Senior School 9:00am - 12:00 noon, Saturday 10th October

Sixth Form Open Evening 6.00pm – 8.00pm, Wednesday 21st October

TAUNTON

An education for life 01823 340830 www.queenscollege.org.uk admissions@queenscollege.org.uk follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

nursery DIRECTORY 14 Parent Talk September 2015

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: T 01749 881600 E admissions@

allhallowsschool.co.uk

Bridgwater College Childcare Centre is open to the general public and children of students, for children from four months to five years. 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 or E: childcare@bridgwater.ac.uk www.bridgwaterchildcare.ac.uk

Cheekie Monkeys Ilminster A friendly, calm and nurturing setting offering full time day care (8am-6pm) for children aged 0-5. We have highly experienced staff and excellent facilities in our baby and pre-school rooms, plus an amazing garden.

T: Lesley/Ali 01460 52457

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

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 outstanding 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

Kingsbury Episcopi Pre-School.

With the focus on the individual child’s needs at Kingsbury Episcopi Pre-School children play to learn and learn to play together. Sessions every morning, and Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Please contact us E: kingsburyepiscopipreschool@gmail.com T: 01460 241004 www.kingsburyepiscopipreschool.co.uk

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.

T: 01823 285921 www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk

Hazlegrove Nursery

NURSERY DIRECTORY NURSERY

Little Boots Day Nursery (Ages 2-5, 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 (Ages 2 - 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 wide range of exciting and stimulating teaching methods. 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

Miniatures Day Nursery Open 50 weeks per year, we provide a safe, secure and stimulating environment for children aged 0-5 years. Open 8am-6pm, we provide home cooked food. Education grants accepted for 3 & 4 yr olds.

Two minutes from A358.

Church Rd, Ilton, Ilminster.

T. Marion on 01460 55488 www.miniaturesdaynursery.co.uk

Perrott Hill Montessori Nursery and Pre-Prep Given

To book our Nursery Directory, please call

01458 250461

‘outstanding’ by Ofsted, the Montessori 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 as well as having their own outdoor adventure play area.

The staff are warm and friendly. Free after school care is available.

T: 01460 72051 www.perrotthill.com

Pilton Preschool A long established & ever evolving village Pre-school where children “share warm and trusting relationships with staff, showing they feel settled and secure and that their emotional well-being is effectively supported” (Ofsted ‘Good’ 2014) A vibrant child centred environment offering fun and inspiring play based learning and education for children aged 2-4 years. Sessions include Forest School, Yoga, Little Mark-Makers, Sports Club, Music & Movement and much more...

For further information or to arrange a visit please contact T: 01749 899147 E: preschool@piltonvillage.co.uk W: www.piltonvillage.co.uk/preschool

or follow us on Facebook **Limited Availability. Book now for September 2016** Queen’s College offers individual learning. AN INDIVIDUAL focus on learning is keeping Queen’s College Pre-Prep and Nursery at the top of the tree. With small class sizes of 12-16 children, specialist teachers can cater for each individual child’s needs. Rated as outstanding Queen’s College nursery and reception classes

Supporting students in Yeovil to reach their potential As another school year starts, students and their families are starting to look towards the future.

For many young people, developing a passion early on in life will lead them to their future career. Performing arts is one such area where the desire and training often starts early.

But in this highly competitive field, young people need as much support as possible to achieve their dreams.

Razzamataz Yeovil works

hard to assist their students through their professional training.

Razzamataz provides the help they need to establish connections and gain experience in this competitive industry. The first port of call starts with the opportunity to audition for Top Talent Casting Agency. Students across all of the Razzamataz schools up and down the country have appeared in West End shows, on TV, in pop videos and professional pantos.

Students of all ages also get a chance to work with industry professionals.

Razzamataz regularly host master classes where experienced professional performers come into the school to teach sections from well-loved shows.

Yeovil will be visited by Carl from Nick Jr’s Go!Go!Go! show this October.

Razzamataz Yeovil offers a wide range of performing arts styles for children from the ages of 2-18 with classes

in dance, drama and singing.

Students experience various genres from classic West End musical theatre through to pop singing and street dance. In all sessions, the emphasis is on having fun and bringing out the creativity and unique potential in each and every student.

To book a free performing arts session with Razzamataz Yeovil, call Claire or email yeovil@ razzamataz.co.uk. For more information about Razzamataz visit www.razzamataz.co.uk

are not to be missed.

To visit contact admissions@queenscollege.org.uk T: 01823 340830

Smartees Day Care Nursery Ltd offers professional and flexible childcare for working families, with 2 conveniently located nurseries close to Yeovil 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, 8am - 5.45pm Highly qualified teachers. Spectacular grounds and facilities used by all. Children can attend a combination of morning, afternoon and late club sessions.

T: 01823 703303 www.tauntonschool.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 3 years upwards. Please enjoy our website www.wellington-school.org.uk

or call Maria Kerr to arrange a visit.

T: 01823 668700

Little Wellies Term Time Toddler group.

Open to all pre-school children every Thursday morning 9.15-11.15 am, 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

Healthy hydration for back to school The Natural Hydration Council is encouraging parents to use the beginning of the new school year as a time to encourage their children to start new healthy habits, such as encouraging children to have a glass of water before they go to school.

Dr Emma Derbyshire, adviser to the Natural Hydration Council and an expert in children’s nutrition advises parents to encourage their children to drink water; “Staying well hydrated is important for children as they are at a greater risk of dehydration than adults due to their higher surface-tobody weight ratio and smaller reserves of body fluids.

Research also suggests that adequate hydration helps children to maintain cognitive function and concentration at school.

“Helping children to develop healthy hydration habits from a young age is a positive step to avoiding issues such as tooth decay”.

Some smart ways to encourage your child to develop the taste for water: 1. Children often copy parents’ behaviour and habits, so try to get into the habit of drinking water, and showing them you like it, in front of your child(ren).

2. Repeated tastings of water may help kids to develop a taste for it. Studies suggest that a dislike of a food or drink can be overcome by repeating tastings 5 to 10 times over a two week period, however, avoid using excessive coercion or pressure to get them to drink it.

3. Start your day with a glass of water. Ensure the whole family drinks water at breakfast, so everyone starts the day well hydrated.

4. Always offer water at mealtimes –it will also help those vegetables taste less bitter if children are drinking something plain.

5. Ask your children to decorate their own water bottle.

16 Parent Talk June 2015

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Parent Talk September 2015 15 EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION Bringing out the best Invest in your children’s First Steps future during their EarlyChildcare Bringing out the child in your childbest in your Years Set in twenty acres of beautiful parkland, Chilton Cantelo School is located near Yeovil and Sherborne. The day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 3-18 encourages every child to be the best they can be with tailored learning including an Able, Gifted and Talented programme as well as differentiated learning support provided by specialist support staff.

Pre-Prep pupils benefit from a Forest School environment There with are noan extraextended charges for Set in good twenty social acres ofcommunication planting and gardening and after-school activities, lunches, forest projects.enrichment beautifulskills, parkland, Chilton curriculum.

Participating programme independence, a school positive weekend trips for boarders The school provides Cantelo School is located in engaging, motivating and providing challenging and mental attitude, and selfor learning support (where termly and weekly boarding near Yeovil and Sherborne. applicable). at competitive rates.stimulating Bus The day and boarding achievable tasks and activities evening and esteem andschool confidence.

Chilton Cantelo is part of transport for pupils around for boys and girls aged 3-18 in a woodland environment, weekend Cognita activities.

For pupils Year 3 and Group, a world leader Dorset and Somerset offers encourages every child to Forest School develops: self Convenient transport is anddaily routes full as well in independent education and flexible as be the upwards, best they canweekly be UK’s largest pick-ups on Monday mornings with learning goals and are awareness, self regulation, provided thecovering thenetwork threeof boarding options available schools. Cognita and drop-offs on Friday objectives tailored to the intrinsic motivation, empathy, counties independent Somerset, in a home-from-home isof committed toDorset raising evenings for weekly boarders. individual.

standards of education and After-school activities Acclaimed for its family ensures that best practice ranging from chamber choir to atmosphere, Chilton Cantelo is adopted in all aspects of rock workshops are provided nurtures achievement and school curricula, teaching as well as weekend activities boundless curiosity from and learning and school for boarders.

Nursery to Sixth Form. management School fees are inclusive.

Our specialist teachers take provides lots of opportunity from Home Nursery both Nursery and Pre Prep Call 01935 850555 to attend an Open Day or ask about to develop children’s physical full time day care pupils around the grounds and our FREE WEEKLY PARENT AND TODDLER SESSIONS to woodlands for regular nature development. skills and social is close to Street sample our Nursery or Reception classes. rambles, wildlife observation,

and Wiltshire.

By Kathy McLauchlan: Head inclusive.

School fees are ofThere Nursery Pre Prep, areand no extra charges for Taunton School. after-school activities, Research has proved that age lunches, 0weekend - 8 is the timetrips that thefor mostboarders rapid intellectual growth takes or learning support (where place. This is the time when applicable). quality education, breadth of opportunity, Chilton experience Cantelo and is part of quality choice really do make Cognita Group, a world leader a difference to attitude to learning and development. in independent education and We need the UK’sto develop largesthigher network of First Steps Childcare is view the great opportunities order thinking and a positive independent pleased to announce the and experiences we can offer attitude to learningschools. from an Cognita early All too soon young is age. committed to raising opening of its new preschool your child, please contact us children lose their sparkle and standards of education and classrooms.

The recently on 01749 346733 or email outings, forest school, sport, zest when herded through a from the earliest opportunity? ensures that best and practice rooms are music, spread thinking on fsdaynursery@btconnect. drama, rigid, politically orientated ■ Ourisbrainsfinished are the source skillsand andwill problem dominated which of school of who we areover because of our adopted curriculum in all aspects two floors give solving. com to arrange a visit We have many enrichment does not stretch or enthuse early experiences. curricula, and learning us the to provide opportunities and offer an young minds. teaching Our curriculum ■ At no other time opportunity does extended knowing that isand flexible, it is active, and it is such rapidthe children intellectual with school management smallday, groups need cover in the fun. and emotional growth and Call 01935 850555 working with families key groups on holidays and after school while ■ Early Years opportunity processing take place. or register for ■ The via morea opportunities 1:5 staff ratio in tothe final you work afford opportunity. provides firm foundations All part going of a tocreatively future learning. and experiences available, year the chiltoncanteloschool.co.uk to ‘nursery’ before packaged offer.

■ High qualified staff coupled more the brain develops and attend an Open Day. school.

Life at TS is probably not with specialist resources, grows; making new neural The added what spaceyouand may the expect. So intimate, homogonous groups connections. please and see for are a recipe for success and ■ We are forward thinking. new secure front come garden yourself. Feel the warmth of all our children succeed as We have fun and meaningful school family and see our vibrant individual talents are nurtured. experiences. will We enable value the ourourforest in action.

We are all ■ How do we know what lines best of tradition and use activities to bechildren available to all very accessible. For more of possible development will proven methods and research the children. Itinformation will alsoabout give how to connect and grow if we do not to extend your children. babies andcome toddlers their and spend a day with us give our children opportunity ■ Our our curriculum call outdoor 01823 703300. to explore, create and make encompassesown the areas outdoors, bothplease in and

Where Nursery is Home from Home

Home offers which high street and has a good Ofsted rating. We can also take 2 years and 3 years funding.

There are separate rooms Babies, Toddlers and preschool children. Children are happy and relaxed in our homely setting where staff provide a fun environment and playing/learning is based on individual child’s interests.

You will find a messy play area, mud kitchen and separate rooms for nap times.

Our fantastic outdoor space

We grow vegetables in our growing area, giving children hands on learning and knowledge and understanding of fresh food which is then used in our home cooked lunches. We have a level 2 Forest School leader who encourages children to join in outdoor activities such as building dens and bug hunting furthering development, children’s imagination, creativity and knowledge.

All our staff are qualified or working towards qualification.

Registered Private

Access all areas Start your educational

need image EXPLORERS

STAY

CURIOUS

EXPLORERS We believe that mother nature is a wonderful teacher.

Discover how Forest School inspires young minds in Nursery and Reception.

STAY

OPEN DAY 26th JUNE 2015

Book now: 01935 850555 | chiltoncanteloschool.co.uk Chilton Cantelo School, near Yeovil and Sherborne

CURIOUS We believe that mother nature is a wonderful teacher.

Discover how Forest School inspires young minds in Nursery and Reception.

OPEN MORNING 18 SEPT 2015 Book now: 01935 850555 chiltoncanteloschool.co.uk

to develop and explore the Day Nursery School environment.

The existing rooms have From 3 months to 5 yrs also received a makeover and Open all year round: journey towards degree the nursery area nowa has a 8.30am – 5.30pm wooden pergola which will give the younger children access 44 Compton Road to the outdoors throughout Shepton Mallet the year.

Somerset The added space means BA4 5QT that from September we have an additional 14 spaces Tel: 01749 346733 throughout the setting. We are taking new bookings from email: the end of August. fsdaynursery@btconnect.com If you would like to come in to

If you’ve spent some time away from education but are looking to get back into studying, then an Access to Degree course at Somerset College could be just the ticket.

All Access courses are equivalent to three A-levels, take one academic year to complete and allow direct progression onto degree level study within a related field. They’re designed to prepare you practically and academically for progression onto university studies, and are a fantastic way of equipping you with the skills and experience needed to make the next step in your educational journey.

Somerset College offers a range of Access courses,

including: ■ Health Studies ■ Nursing ■ Science ■ Social Science and Social Work ■ Business and IT ■ Art and Design ■ Journalism and Teaching These courses provide the foundations for universitylevel study in areas such as Midwifery, Podiatry, Nutrition, Psychology, Sociology, Journalism, Business and many more.

Financial Support is available

If you are 24 years of age or older, then in most cases you will be eligible to receive an advanced learning loan to pay your tuition fees.

The application process is easy, your household income won’t be taken into account and if you go on to successfully complete a degree after studying an Access course then any outstanding loan amounts will be written off.

You can apply now for Access courses starting in September 2015. For more information and to apply please visit www.somerset.ac.uk or contact 01823 336 331 enquiries@somerset.ac.uk.

Home from Home Nursery Day Care Separate rooms for: 0-2 years 2 plus years

Fresh home cooked dinners every day

Large Garden area

Full time open 52 weeks of the year 8am- 6pm

Chilton Cantelo School, near Yeovil and Sherborne

01458 446460 www.homefromhomenursery.org.uk follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

16 Parent Talk September 2015

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Sherborne Girls Have you thought about your daughter starting at an independent girls’ school at the age of 11? While starting age is traditionally 13, more and more parents are seeing the benefits of their daughters joining earlier.

Ella Beaumont joined Sherborne Girls in Year 7, having attended Sherborne Primary School previously.

She explains, “One of the advantages of a school like

Sherborne Girls is that it offers much more than lessons. The boarding environment makes it feel like we are a big family, even though I am a day girl. I attend School from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and also on a Saturday morning, and I join all the girls in the junior boarding house for every meal. I usually stay on into the evening to do my homework with my friends and I like coming in on the weekend to get involved with

all the different activities.

I am Captain of the house swimming team and I enjoy speech and drama, cookery and textiles. It’s the best of both worlds: I spend nearly all of my time with my friends, yet I see my parents every night. I think my two years in the junior house has definitely improved my confidence and made me happier about starting Year 9.”

If you are interested in finding out more, come

along to Sherborne Girls’ Open Afternoon on Sunday 18 October from 2pm to 4pm. Meet the girls and their teachers and have a look around our junior boarding house and facilities.

Please email registrar@ sherborne.com to advise of your attendance or for more information please call 01935 818224.

Pictured right: Ella Beaumont

Study in the most fashionable place in the UK?

Open Afternoon for entry at age 11

Sunday 18 October 2pm-4pm

Boarding & day options for 11-18 • Range of scholarships Please call to register your interest on 01935 818224 or email registrar@sherborne.com

www.sherborne.com

'a light should be shone on it' Good Schools Guide 2015

In the top 2 schools in Somerset for GCSE results (Df E 2014 Data)

Bruton is, according to The Times newspaper, the ‘most fashionable place to live in the UK’ but we would add that it’s probably one of the nicest places to go to school too! Set amongst 40 acres of glorious Somerset countryside, Bruton School for Girls is fast gaining a reputation for its academic results, being one of the top two schools in Somerset at GCSE (DfE exam league tables Jan 2015) and where the latest 2015 A Level results showed that 75% of the current cohort gained an A or an A* grade which, considering that Bruton School for Girls is academically non-selective, is pretty impressive.

But above all, the school

exudes friendliness and creates a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere. In the most recent Good Schools Guide, it claimed that ‘a light should be shone on it’ and that its pastoral care was ‘highly, highly, highly rated’. Girls are provided with the opportunity and the environment to flourish as individuals with spirit and character. To experience the school for yourself why not come along to the next Open Morning on Saturday 3rd October or book an individual visit? For an informal chat on the opportunities for your child, contact: admissions@ brutonschool.co.uk or tel : 01479 814400. www.brutonschool.co.uk

St Dunstan’s School

Open Morning Sat 3rd October 2015 or call to arrange a personal visit or taster day

OPEN DAY

SUNNY HILL • BRUTON • SOMERSET T 01749 814400 W BRUTONSCHOOL.CO.UK E ADMISSIONS@BRUTONSCHOOL.CO.UK

Day and boarding school for girls aged 7-18 Day school for girls and boys aged 3-7

01458 832943

Serpentine seeks aspiring young architects (aged 8-14) to design a summer pavilion No experience needed

Launched to mark the 15th anniversary of the Serpentine Pavilion commission (which, since 2000, has seen incredible structures designed by some of the world’s greatest architects), Build Your Own Pavilion challenges aspiring young architects, based in the UK, to design a small-scale model of a temporary summer Pavilion.

Entries will be divided into two categories, 8-10 years and 11-14 years, with a winner and runner-up selected for both categories. Each winner will receive an iPad pre-loaded with 3D CAD drawing software and each runner-up will be awarded an architecture toolkit packed with books and creative materials. The competition is made possible by support from Bloomberg Philanthropies and forms part of a larger, digital and youth innovation partnership.

The brief is simple: to design

and create a small-scale model (no bigger than a football and no smaller than a tennis ball) of a temporary summer Pavilion that can house public events and a café. All that is needed is a pair of scissors, sticky tape, glue or blue tack and any other materials that can be found at home or in the classroom, including cardboard, paper, plastic, foam board, plasticine, lolly sticks, plastic straws, wire, thread or string.

The Build Your Own Pavilion website provides guidance on the principles of architectural design and a basic toolkit that includes useful information on everything from working with simple modelling materials through to 3D design and printing. The site also offers the opportunity to learn from architects who have designed previous Pavilions, including Sou Fujimoto, Smiljan Radic and selgascano, who can be seen on youtube.com making their own models from simple materials, including paper, masking tape and wire.

Participants can each enter up to five models by uploading photos to the online gallery at the Build Your Own Pavilion website. Designs will be judged by a panel of experts, including the Serpentine Directors and the architects of the 2015 Pavilion, selgascano. A selection of the best designs will be showcased on the website and the winners will be selected in autumn 2015.

To enter: buildyourownpavilion. serpentinegalleries.org Prizes to be won: buildyourownpavilion. serpentinegalleries.org/ prizes-and-judges/

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Parent Talk September 2015 17

King’s Hall School King’s Hall School is a leading Pre-Prep and Prep school for girls and boys aged 2-13. Set in a stunning countryside location surrounded by farmland, King’s Hall is only a couple of minutes drive from the centre of the county town Taunton, Somerset.

On a visit to King’s Hall School, you will be struck by the tangible warmth and friendliness of children, staff and parents. Children benefit from a genuinely rounded education where each individual is encouraged to fulfil their own potential not only academically, but also to take advantage of the plentiful opportunities presented to them in areas such as music, sport, drama and art. To discover all that King’s Hall can offer you and your family, visiting us at an open day is a great place to start. Whilst ‘every day is an open day’, our next whole school open day is on Friday 2nd October and families can chat to our pupils,

OPEN DAY staff and current parents as well as enjoying a tour of the school with our enthusiastic Year 8 pupils.

King’s Hall School truly is a wonderful place, where children are encouraged to be the best that they can be and without doubt enjoy the journey getting there! To join us on our open day, or for any further

information, please contact Emma Guppy, our Admissions Registrar, on 01823 285921 or Admissions@ kingshalltaunton.co.uk.

Taster days and personal visits can also be arranged.

For more information about King’s Hall School, visit www. kingshalltaunton.co.uk.

We look forward to meeting you.

Sport at Perrott Hill Sport is held in high esteem at Perrott Hill and everyone delights in taking a breather from the academic rigours of school life to enjoy some fresh air in our beautiful grounds on the Somerset/Dorset borders.

Team games are very important and pupils are expected to work hard both for the team, and for themselves.

We find that the lessons they learn on the sports field are invaluable and promote greater awareness of others, better decision making and inspire them to succeed in more general situations.

In recent years Perrott Hill has ‘upped its game’ on the sporting front with increased investment in both coaches and facilities; this has really paid off with some tremendous results across the sporting spectrum. Perrott Hill has stepped onto the national, area and county stage in a variety of sports including rugby, cricket, hockey, netball, badminton, skiing, show jumping and sailing.

If you would like to arrange a visit to Perrott Hill, our Autumn Term Open Mornings are being held on Friday 9th and Saturday 10th October 2015.

If you are interested in entering your child for a Perrott Hill Sports Scholarship please request an information pack.

Please call Susan Cleary on 01460 72051 or email admissions@perrotthill.com for further information.

Parent Talk Looking for easy family recipes ?

talk

Take a look at our website for lots of different ideas!

B E PA RT O F T H E ADVENTURE

Friday 2nd October 10 am arrival

Perrott Hill Time and space for a full education

Autumn Open Mornings Summer Term Term Open Mornings at Perrott Hill Friday 9 th and Saturday 10 th October Friday 8th and Saturday 9th May 2015 Perrott Hill Scholarship Day

Perrott Hill’s Independent Schools Inspectorate Report was Friday 5 February 2016 outstanding, with the topthmark of ‘Excellent’ awarded in every category. encourage you to read the Tatler Schools Guide 2015 and PerrottWe Hill’s Independent Schools Inspectorate Report the Good Schools Guide which capture ethosofof‘Excellent’ this flourishing was outstanding, with the topthe mark co-educational boarding school. awarded in every category.

Perrott Hill, North Perrott, Crewkerne, Somerset, TA18 7SL 01460 72051 www.perrotthill.com admissions@perrotthill.com

Please contact us to reserve your place Little visitors are welcome to join all the fun of a Forest School session—for over 3s—starting 9.30 am

Co-educational day & boarding: ages 2 –13 telephone: 01823 285921 admissions@kingshalltaunton.co.uk www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk A Woodard School

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

18 Parent Talk September 2015

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

New Head at Chard School Chard School is delighted to announce that Sarah Graham will be taking up the post of Headmistress from September 2015.

Sarah is thrilled to return to her roots in Somerset to take the helm of Chard School after running a top 400-strong pre-preparatory school In London. A modern languages graduate of St Andrews, she has a wealth of educational leadership experience in both state and independent sectors. With three children of her own who have all been through private primary education she is used to seeing things from a parent’s point of view.

Chard School is uniquely placed to offer a truly independent education tailored to the needs of your child, with long-standing tradition and excellent facilities, yet small enough to be flexible and forwardlooking.

The next Open Day will take place on Friday 9th October, 9.30am -11.30am. Come along and take a tour of our wonderful school! The Open Day will give you a real feel of what life is like at Chard; the breadth of the curriculum, our extensive facilities, our passionate and enthusiastic teaching staff and above

all, our happy and thriving children.

If you can’t make the next Open Day, you are most welcome to book a personal visit to do a school tour with the Head; to arrange this

Editor’s choice

A Great Big Cuddle

By Michael Rosen, illustrated by Chris Riddell Published by Walker Books Two of the biggest names in children’s publishing come together in a new poetry collection for very young children. The poems in ‘A Great Big Cuddle’ fizz off the page with sound and rhythm, energy and laughter, as Rosen captures in the most remarkable way what it means to be very, very young. A child’s world in all its detail – toys and games, animals and made-up creatures, likes and dislikes – is vividly conjured up in the most memorable and playful language.

please call 01460 63234 or email office@chardschool. co.uk. We can also arrange a taster day for your child so that they can come and experience a school day with us.

50 Things to do Before You’re 11¾ Published by National Trust Books The National Trust’s landmark ‘50 Things to do Before You’re 11 ¾’ campaign, encourages kids and families to get outside to enjoy nature with a practical, fun list of activities to do. This new set of challenges is even more exciting as they’re in the dark!

Put your coat on, grab a torch and get ready for the strange and exciting night-time world. Whether you’re at the park, in the woods or in your garden, there is loads to do after the sun goes down – great things to make, crazy games and amazing animals to watch. Can you compete all 50?

Utterly Amazing Human Body

By Professor Robert Winston Published by Dorling Kindersley How much of your body’s weight is made up of water?

What would your brain feel like if you could reach inside and touch it? Which is the smallest muscle in the human body? ‘Utterly Amazing Human Body’ is jam packed with astonishing facts, colourful illustrations and engaging text which will inspire young minds to look beneath the surface and get to grips with how the human body works. Not only does this book make learning exciting through interactive games and activities to try at home, it covers core National Curriculum content at KS2 in science and the human body. Children will discover how the lungs work and where food goes when you eat it, making it perfect for homework help and information.

Woodland Adventure Handbook

By Adam Dove Published by Frances Lincoln 10 ‘recipes’ for Woodland adventures, each structured around a story which is designed to capture the imagination of 2-6 year olds. Each recipe provides parents and carers with a list of the kit required (generally household objects) and a set of step by step instructions. ‘Woodland Adventure Handbook’ focuses on activities for younger children, and connects with the fast-growing Forest School movement providing a remedy for the problems of nature deficit, childhood obesity and depression.

UNITI

UNITI

VIREAMUS

VIREAMUS

“An exceptional school with a unique offering of small classes, high levels of achievement and a truly family feel”

Open Morning Friday 9th October 9.30am-11.30am

www.chardschool.co.uk

01460 63234 office@chardschool.co.uk

CLASSIFIED CLASSIFIED CLASSIFIED

Parent Talk September 2015 19

Top tips for returners When I created 2to3days. com - an online community that matches and connects capable mothers to employers - it was in order to support mothers looking for roles which will allow them to both work and raise a family, on their own terms.

For many of our mothers, this return to work after a sustained career-break can be a daunting prospect.

However, having the right planning and attitude in place can go a long way to making the whole process as smooth a transition as possible. So, whether you are mother or father, going back to work full time or part time, working from the office or at home, here are a few things to keep in mind to get you ‘workready’.

1 Be clear on how work will fit into your life Before you rush into applications, it is important to pause and ask yourself what you really, really want.

It is crucial that you slow the whole process down and get crystal clear on this crucial question, because if you are not clear about what you want to do, it will impact your commitment and confidence in going out to get the job that works for you! You need to realistically ask yourself how much time you have to dedicate to a role, which hours of the day you need to be free, which days’ work best for you, how much you need to earn and what your childcare solution will be. Knowing from the off how your ideal job will fit into your life will give you much needed clarity in terms of what roles to apply for or types of childcare you’ll need.

Knowing how important getting this clarity is leads us to develop our ‘reality check’ exercise on the site, to help you think rationally through all of those core questions.

2 Preparing yourself Once you have made the decision to return to work and assessed what your core wants are, you need to get practical. Thinking practically at this stage will ensure you are completely prepared and confident when applying for that ideal role.

Make sure you’re up to date with your sector: If you’ve had a career gap to look after your children, you may be slightly out of the loop. The first step to getting back in the career mind-set is to make sure you’re up-to-date with your sector – get back in contact with old colleagues and do some market research. If you find that your skills are rusty or need updating, then address this now: volunteering can be a great way to build up competencies and confidence, and investing in training to update your

skills can make a world of difference.

Understand your skillset: As well as looking to develop new proficiencies, don’t underestimate the transferable skills you’ve picked up during your time away from work. Too often returning parents are quick to underestimate all the skills they have learnt whilst bringing up their children, skills that are incredibly valuable to the business world.

Also, given your new skillset, there may be opportunities and questions over whether you want to do the same job you did before you had children, or whether you think you are better suited to do something different.

3 The job hunt I know that a thorough job hunt can sometimes be a full-time job in itself! From perfecting your CV to getting into the right mind-set, you need to be disciplined with yourself to give yourself the best possible chance to net that perfect job.

Get your CV in order: You only have six seconds to make an impact with your CV, so invest in getting it right and be proud of your achievements.

Writing a CV can be a struggle, particularly when you feel you need to account for a career gap. Be confident and unapologetic about the time that you have taken off work to raise your family: be completely honest about your career gap and emphasise those transferable skills on your CV, making sure not to belittle your role as a parent.

There is no such thing as “I’m just a mum or dad”.

Engaging a third party to help you objectively write or review your CV is a valuable exercise. When updating my CV I went straight to a trained CV writer, who pulled all of my experience and expertise together, within 24 hours; being one step removed allowed them to put the most pertinent information first.

Treat your job hunt like a real job: Set aside fixed blocks of time to focus on researching and applying for jobs; as tempting as it can be to try to multitask, be strict with yourself, as you will be far more productive and yield better results. Blocking off specific time in your day will also put you in the right ‘work’ mind-set.

4 Starting that dream job You’ve worked hard on your application, been to the interview and secured your dream job. You’re one step away from entering the world of work again so make sure you’re prepared for the transition.

Dealing with the transition: Going back into work following

Parent Talk

Looking for a day out with the kids ?

Head over to our website www.parenttalk.org.uk to find what’s on in your area!

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maternity or paternity leave will be a big transition no matter how well you prepare for it. Part of that will be dealing with practicalities of the change: it is important to make sure that if you are working part time you are clear and unapologetic of the hours you are working. From day one, you need to set clear boundaries and make sure that expectations are clear on all sides.

The other transition will be the emotional element of leaving your family to go to work, particularly when younger children are involved.

Whilst this won’t necessarily go away, you can manage it by: ◆ making sure you have your children settled and happy in childcare in advance of going to work; ◆ creating boundaries – make sure that your work

isn’t creeping into your time at home with your family, and vice versa; ◆ setting realistic expectations of yourself; ◆ working with your husband/wife/partner to ensure that you are both on the same page and in full support of each other; and ◆ letting go of the idea of being ‘perfect’.

Remember that every family has their own parenting technique and what works for one person may not be right for you.

Lastly, don’t be defeated or too upset if the first job application or interview doesn’t work for you – with determination and clarity of vision, the right job is sure to surface.

Best of luck!

by Juliet Turnbull, Founder and CEO of 2to3days.com

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Quantock Baby Sitting Agency Ltd Linking families to Professional Babysitters & Nannies since 2010 ✤Evening, weekend and school holidays Soft Play Hire Packages for 0-5’s

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

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Juliet Turnbull – biography Juliet is the founder of 2to3days.com, a private community connecting employers with professional, educated women looking to combine stimulating flexible work with raising their children. She is passionate about helping companies access an – as yet untapped pool of talented women who have made the choice to raise a family alongside work.

Juliet is an experienced business coach and a great connector and networker.

She was a senior business coach for Shirlaws and ran her own executive coaching business for four years.

Prior to that she was a Chartered Surveyor in the

retail property sector for 12 years and ran her own property consultancy. She was chair of Macmillan’s largest fundraising event in London, raising £650,000 in three years. She has a BSc in estate management; a diploma from the Coaching Academy; and certificates in NLP and Myers-Briggs.

Juliet is known for her positive energy, can-do attitude and ability to connect people with each other. She loves to travel, is a real foodie and enjoys an active lifestyle. She lives in south west London with her husband and two children. www.2to3days.com

Experienced registered childminder in idyllic rural location 5 mins from A303 has vacancy

Wed/Thurs/Fri 8.15am-5.45pm

Melanie Tuffill 01460 234325

Quirky handmade cushions and pictures at the Arts Centre Ilminster OCTOBER issue copy deadline 23rd September 2015 Call 01458 250461

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