Term Times - spring/summer 2011 by PortsmouthCityCouncil

TermTimes May 2011 – September 2011

Issue 4

Your free magazine for under 11s and their families

Ahoy there!

special feature: Men inspiring learning

Inside: • Summer fun – what’s on in Portsmouth • Nits – are you itching to find out more? • Win tickets to see Peppa Pig at the Kings Theatre

www.portsmouth.gov.uk

Welcome to the latest issue of Term Times.

Hidden Treasure

How to spot them

Stir the cous cous into the onion mixture with the peas and salmon. Heat through and serve. Delicious served hot or cold.

If lice are detected, the entire family needs to be checked (especially children up to the age of 13 years). Those infected should then be treated either by wetcombing or with medicated lotion.

Children from e to drivers. with a messag

or Are you a school, children’s centre snapshots early years setting? Send your by to termtimes@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of advertisements or sponsorship in this publication, Portsmouth City Council cannot accept any liability for errors and omissions. We will not accept any responsibility for claims made by advertisers and their inclusion in Term Times, and this should not be taken as an endorsement by Portsmouth City Council.

May 2011 –

for Portsmouth

Please recycle this magazine when you have finished with it. Advertisement

Clothes, towels, bedding, combs and brushes, which came in contact with the infested individual, should be disinfected either by leaving them outside for at least three days or by washing them at 60°C for 30 minutes.

I think that any girls between the ages of 10-13 would enjoy reading this book as it can relate to girls at this age.

Prevention

I really recommend you buy or ask for this book as it’s got great description and adjectives and you can read it again and again.

You should check your child’s head regularly with a louse comb to spot any eggs or headlice at an early stage which makes treatment easier and reduces the possibility of infesting others. Tying long hair back for school can also prevent infection.

Star rating:  drop everything... you need this book! page 11

TermTimes

May 2011 – TermTimes

page 9 Getting men involved in Portsmouth That’s why schools, preschools and children’s centres in Portsmouth are coming up with new ways to get dads, granddads, uncles and other male role models into their settings.

•

better exam results

•

better school attendance and behaviour

•

less likely to be involved with the police

From family roast dinners every week to setting up sessions to create Mothering Sunday gifts with their children, the ideas are practical and flexible so as many men as possible can be involved.

•

higher quality of later relationships

Here are a few examples from across the city…

•

better mental health

Opening up the treasure of books

page 11

Ahoy there! Stamshaw Junior School have been piloting a scheme to forge stronger links between schools and the navy.

Kalem Carter, weapons engineer, was one of the sailors involved in the pilot. He said: “It has been a really good opportunity for me as I want to be a primary school teacher when I leave the navy. The children have been really enthusiastic.”

out&about SUMMER 2011

Naval ratings, male and female, visited the school for a week to run activities such as code-breaking games, team work to cross a pretend river and signalling messages. The interactive activities all help to develop confidence, decision making and planning skills.

Head teacher, Simon Cattermole, thinks it is important to encourage visitors into the school. He said: “It is really important for pupils to have visitors from the wider community to give them the opportunity to relate to adults who are not staff members. It is important to have positive male role models in particular, as not everyone has male influences at home.”

That’s not to say that mums don’t matter anymore. What the studies have shown is that both mums and dads involvement are important for children and one is not a substitute for the other.

hted in yellow are All events highlig

muM’s the word Dads helped their children to make Mother’s Day cards at Little Admirals pre-school. Grant O’Brien is dad to four year old Poppy. He said: “I enjoyed seeing what a day in Poppy’s life is like and meeting her teachers and having fun for a few hours.”

MAY 24–25 The Gruffalo’s Child New Theatre Royal. Tuesday 1.30pm, Wednesday 10.30am and 1.30pm. Ages three plus. 26 May–5 Jun Moscow State Circus Southsea Common. 0844 856 5555 (Ticketmaster) 28 May–5 Jun Struck by Tudor Gold Mary Rose Museum at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Display and demonstrations plus design and colour your own Tudor coin, 11am–1pm and 2-4pm. Free with valid attraction ticket.

Term Times is printed on 100% recycled paper using vegetable inks.

This issue’s book reviews

page 9

men insp iring learning

Positive involvement from dads in their children’s learning is associated with better educational, social and emotional outcomes, including:

Book worms

Alternatively you can use medicated lotions or sprays from your pharmacist – please read instructions carefully and seek advice if pregnant or breastfeeding. If the lice appear to be unaffected by the product (some lice may have developed resistance to a particular insecticide) or if the problem persists, seek advice from your school nurse, health visitor, pharmacist or GP.

page 7

page 7 Fathers can be a positive force in their children’s education, when they get involved their children are likely to do better in school.

or send to Term Times, corporate communications, 3rd floor, Civic Offices, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AL by 30 September 2011.

Written by Katya Domasewska, aged 9, St Swithun’s Catholic Primary

Wet-combing involves removing the head lice by systematically combing washed and conditioned hair using a special fine-toothed comb with a spacing of less than 0.3mm. Your pharmacist can advise you on which combs are suitable.

This Healthy Pompey recipe will provide your family with a healthy, balanced and tasty meal. For more healthy eating ideas and recipes visit www.healthypompey.com

Don’t stop on our zig-zags Zig-zag lines keep an area car-free so people can cross the road safely – especially children. You can get a ticket if you stop on a yellow school zig-zag between 8am and 4pm – even if you’re just dropping off or picking up children. Road safety co-ordinator Nicola Waight said: “Some parents feel it’s acceptable to drop their children off by stopping on zig-zags. They think about the safety of their own children but are endangering other children.”

School, Southse St Swithun’s RC

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a saucepan, add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the pepper and cook for a further 2 minutes.

Special feature

Altogether nine children took part to promote fairtrade. We showed them our bunting we had made in attempt to break the world record. We received a copy of the broadcast and during our fairtrade assembly we played it to the rest of the school. Tell us about interesting things you have done in or out of school. Overall, it was a fantastic experience and we would like to thank everyone involved in the project. Email your story to termtimes@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Treatment

Method Place the cous cous in a bowl, cover with boiling water and leave to stand for 5 minutes, following instructions on the pack.

Friday 30 September 2011.

For advertising and other enquiries contact: termtimes@portsmouthcc.gov.uk 023 9283 4142 Term Times, corporate communications, 3rd floor, Civic Offices, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth. www.portsmouth.gov.uk/learning/9015.html

In order to spread the word of fairtrade I along with others wrote a letter to Express FM. Soon afterwards we received a letter asking us to come and appear on the breakfast show with Adrian Knight.

Ingredients 125g cous cous 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 red onion, finely diced 1 red or yellow pepper, finely diced 100g frozen peas, cooked 200g salmon fillet, cooked and flaked

Have a great summer. Claire Bartlett, Editor

Playing it ‘fair’ on the air

The most effective way to detect lice and the eggs is to use a louse comb. The best way to spot them is by using a magnifying glass and you should pay special attention around the ears and nape of the neck. Nits are found firmly attached to the hair shaft. They are oval and usually yellow to white. When they hatch they can reach 3mm long (the size of a sesame seed) when fully grown.

Serves: 4

This section is written by you. If you want to write a book review or ‘Take over for 200’ words visit www.portsmouth.gov.uk/learning/9015.html

Zon

Headlice, also known as ‘nits’ is an extremely common condition among children and can be rife in schools. It spreads through head to head contact and is very infectious. It is therefore vital that children are checked regularly and that signs can be recognised easily.

Preparation time: Up to 30 minutes

If you have any comments, questions or ideas for future issues please get in touch.

Kidse

Head, shoulders, nits and lice

This magazine is published by Portsmouth City Council to provide parents/carers of under 11s with regular information on services and activities in Portsmouth.

Contents

Volunteer Tony Turner, 76, said: “I get satisfaction when I see them improving. Their faces light up when they’re talking to you.” Head teacher Jo Cooper has no doubt BERT works. “All the boys have made accelerated progress in their learning,” she said.

28-29 Eastney Beam Engine House open day Free admission.1-5pm

Men: find out more

Whether you are a parent, grandparent or just want to volunteer, approach your local school and see how you could get involved. Schools are always looking for people to help on trips, at events and to help with reading.

Beaches and Battleships guided walk Southsea visitor information centre. 2.30pm. Adults £3, Leisure Card £1, accompanied children free.

30 May–29 Aug Live at the Bandstand Sunday season, West Battery Gardens, behind D-Day Museum. A different style of music each week, 1-4pm. www.visitportsmouth.co.uk

Many children’s centres run groups or activities aimed at male carers. Contact 023 9268 8830 to find out more.

FREE

page 16

Portsmouth City Council visitor information services (VIS) Tel: 023 9282 6722 email: vis@portsmouthcc.gov.uk web: www.visitportsmouth.co.uk Gunwharf Quays Tel: 023 9283 6700 web: www.gunwharf-quays.com

30 May –5 Jun National Family Week A treasure hunt along Southsea seafront, family picnics, a Harry Potter theme day and the Round the Harbours Bike Ride 2011 are just some of the activities taking place in Portsmouth during National Family Week 2011. For a free guide to what’s on contact Portsmouth CHAT on 023 9268 8830.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Tel: 023 9283 9766 e-mail: enquiries@historicdockyard.co.uk web: www.historicdockyard.co.uk

Treasure Hunt Southsea visitor information centre. 2.30pm.

Portsmouth Guildhall Tel: 023 9282 4355

Outdoor Family Fun Cumberland House. Make a seashore puppet, find out how we can look after our beautiful seaside, take home a Pompey wildlife spotter sheet and meet Bramble the Badger, 10.30am– 12.30pm and 1.30pm–3.30pm.

On Monday I saw a beautiful butterfly Visit Cumberland House Natural History Museum between May and September and see a variety of butterflies and the cocoons they emerge from in the butterfly house. It is a great way of bringing Eric Carle’s popular ‘The very hungry caterpillar’ story to life. The main entrance and butterfly house is now accessible to wheelchairs and buggy’s and there is a buggy park where you can also leave scooters, bags etc. Cumberland House Natural History Museum, Eastern Parade, Southsea (next to Canoe Lake). Open every day from 10am – 5.30pm. Entrance free.

30 May–3 Jun Half-term Kidz Club Port Solent. Entertainment on Wicked Wednesday and Super Saturday.

If you are interested in learning more about the association between dads’ involvement and doing better at school visit www.education.gov.uk and search for ‘engaging fathers’.

VENUE CONTACT DETAILS

Portsmouth City Council museums and records service Tel: 023 9282 7261 email: mvs@portsmouthcc.gov.uk web: www.portsmouthmuseums.co.uk

Kings Theatre Tel: 023 9282 8282 web: www.kings-southsea.com New Theatre Royal Tel: 023 9264 9000 web: www.newtheatreroyal.com Aspex Gallery Tel: 023 9277 8080 email: info@aspex.org.uk web: www.aspex.org.uk Spinnaker Tower Tel: 023 9285 7521 email: info@spinnakertower.co.uk web: www.spinnakertower.co.uk Royal Marines Museum Tel: 023 9281 9385 email: info@royalmarinesmuseum.co.uk web: www.royalmarinesmuseum.co.uk Blue Reef Aquarium Tel: 023 9287 5222 email: portsmouth@bluereefaquarium.co.uk web: www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk No 6 Cinema Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Tel: 0781 5650753 web: www.no6cinema.co.uk Odeon, Port Solent Tel: 0871 2244007 web: www.odeon.co.uk Portsmouth Film Society Omega centre, Omega Road Tel: 023 9229 1346 web: www.portsmouthfilmsociety.org.uk Vue, Gunwharf Quays Tel: 0871 2240240 web: www.myvue.com page 19

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TermTimes – May 2011

May 2011 –

TermTimes

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May 2011 –

page 19

Smarty pants Professional dry cleaners

ALL DUVETS £9.99 ALL CURTAINS & SUITE COVERS 15% OFF FREE DELIVERY AND PICK UP 36 London Rd, North End, Portsmouth, PO2 0LN Tel: 023 9269 0523 www.smartypants.org.uk smartest@btconnect.com Offers available until 31st August 2011. Please quote Term Times when placing your order.

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TermTimes – May 2011

TermTimes

News

Planning for the future The future for children in the city is looking brighter after families, and people who work closely with young people, had their say on what they thought was important to improve the lives of children in Portsmouth.

The Children’s Plan has been developed by Portsmouth Children’s Trust, who bring together agencies such as health, social services, education and leisure to improve outcomes for children. For more information please contact 023 9283 4160.

Thanks to those who took part in consultation for the Children’s Plan, there are now seven priorities which will be the focus for the next three years. These include: •

Making sure families who need support have help all the way through from pregnancy to children reaching school

•

Organisations working together to help families who have a variety of needs

•

Improve outcomes for children with disabilities

•

Support schools to reach ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ Ofsted ratings

•

Reach children who are at risk from behavioural issues

•

Make sure children in the city are safe

•

Improve outcomes for looked after children

SNAPSHOT happening What’s been , th’s schools in Portsmou s /nurserie pre-schools ’s centres and children ctober issue since the O

You’re fired! Year 5 pupils at St John’s Cathedral Catholic Primary School took part in an ‘Apprentice’ project. Teams had to think of a product, game or activity that would raise money at their ‘Apprentice’ sale afternoon.

gruffalo! Look out it’s the ity Parade Commun Children from the ite ur d as their favo Pre-school dresse Book book to celebrate character from a Dulcie Dai Brown. Week. Pictured is page 3

May 2011 –

TermTimes

News

Ofsted says... Ofsted inspects all state schools in England at least every three years. After the inspection is complete, Ofsted publish a report.

To find the latest report for your child’s school visit www.ofsted.gov.uk

Worried about a child or young person? If you’ve got any concerns about the welfare of a child or young person you know, contact the child and family enquiries (CAFE) service. They will be able to explain how your concerns should be reported and how referrals are dealt with. The work of all services and professionals to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in the city is overseen by the Portsmouth Safeguarding Children Board. This multi-agency independent board have just appointed two ‘lay members’ – who are members of the public, to help strengthen their links with the local community and help safeguard and protect positive outcomes for all our children. Email CAF.Enquiries@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or phone 0845 671 0271.

Have a say in their future Could you be a school governor? You don’t have to be a parent – just someone who wants to get involved with a school and help make decisions. You can use your skills, learn new ones, and have a rewarding experience contributing to your community, without giving up much time. To find out more: •

call 023 9284 1716

•

email governoradmin@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

•

visit www.portsmouth.gov.uk and put ‘governor’ in the search box

SNAPSHOT

Head, shoulders,

knees and toes The Corner Pre-sc hool took part in the largest game of ‘Head, sh oulders, knees an d toes’ on 1 March 2011 for the ICAN Cha tt erbox Challenge and Ev ery Child a Talker . page 4

TermTimes – May 2011

as tidy Meon Infant is twice s declared the winner of Meon Infant School wa ls competition before Portsmouth’s tidy schoo nd year running. Christmas – for the seco n, Bryan and Leia Ramsde Meon Infant pupils Sam hed with former Lord both six, are photograp lr Paula Riches, and Mayor of Portsmouth Cl scot. e council’s clean city ma Pompey the Pelican, th

News

Cash grants available for school expenses Claire Sambrook

Concrete future for Southsea Skatepark

The wheels are in motion for Southsea Skatepark’s exciting future as it is now being leased to Southsea Skate Park Company, a registered charity and a non-profit social enterprise. It plans to develop the park, including adding a roof to the rink to allow wet weather use. James Kellam, chair of the Board of Trustees said: “We’re delighted to be running the skatepark…and we have a fantastic programme of events planned for the summer.”

Parents from the Landport area who need help towards their children’s school expenses can apply for cash grants.

The cash can be used for help in buying uniforms, equipment, travel or books. Sums of up to £30 have been given in the past.

The Landport Educational Foundation provides grants to pupils under 25 who are past or present pupils at the following schools:

Application forms are available from the Civic Offices’ Information Desk and must be returned by 15 July 2011.

•

Arundel Court Infant and Junior

•

Flying Bull Primary

•

Charles Dickens Infant and Junior

•

St John’s Primary

•

Charter Academy

•

St Edmund’s

Free school meals

For more information visit www.southseaskatepark.com

Further information is available from Teresa Deasy on 023 9283 4056 or email teresa.deasy@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Please collect an application form from your child’s school if you think you may be entitled to free school meals. Even if you do not want to take up the meals it is important that you complete and return the form as it will increase the amount of funding the school receives from the Government.

5,4,3,2,1 blast off! nor Year 2 pupils blasted off from Cop . day ce spa Infant School for a special ce Children and staff dressed up in spa e wer s ent par fancy dress costumes and vities. invited in to take part in space acti

e… Once upon a tim n Parade pupils at Norther e ag st n tio da un Fo of their acter day as part ar ch a ld he ol ho Infant Sc also visited astles’ topic. They C d an s le Ta ry ai ‘Jack & ‘F w the pantomime sa d an tle as C er Porchest . the Kings Theatre the Beanstalk’ at page 5 May 2011 –

TermTimes

News Money, jobs, redundancy All these issues understandably put families under stress. If for you this means that you are starting to feel frightened of your partner and would like some information to keep you and your family safe, you can contact the Early Intervention Project via your GP, midwife or though the council’s housing service or call 023 9268 8472.

Help families in a crisis while you shop If you shop in the Co-op on Elm Grove, Southsea or Eastney Road, Milton, you can help Portsmouth families in need. Simply pop some food or other supplies in a special tub in the shop. It will be collected by Portsmouth Foodbank, which provides emergency packs for families in real hardship. donate What you can and can’t ✔ tinned foods ✔ dried foods cts, soap, shampoo etc. ✔ nappies, sanitary produ ✘ bread ✘ milk and dairy products ✘ vegetables and fruit

Non judgemental support is available to help you decide what would work best for you.

Do you know the right place to get advice and treatment if you or your children are unwell or injured? Patients have a range of choices from the emergency department (A&E) for the most serious conditions such as chest pain, blacking out or blood loss to treatment at home with a first aid kit for indigestion, grazes or a sore throat. Portsmouth has a minor injuries unit at St Mary’s Hospital which has a children’s area, 38 pharmacies offering advice and a GP Out of Hours service for urgent cases when your family doctor is closed. You can find out more about your local services online: www.portsmouth.nhs.uk

SNAPSHOT

Hey, hey, we are read

page 6

y to play! Little Stars Pre-school in Farlington have had their outside area completely refurbished. It is now ready for the children, aged two to five, to enjoy this term.

TermTimes – May 2011

Who’s bee n eating my porridg e??? Moorings W ay Infant School held a Family Healthy Bre akfast. This was foll owed by a family reading session for p arents to share a st ory with their child.

Hidden Treasure Preparation time: Up to 30 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients 125g cous cous 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 red onion, finely diced 1 red or yellow pepper, finely diced 100g frozen peas, cooked 200g salmon fillet, cooked and flaked Method Place the cous cous in a bowl, cover with boiling water and leave to stand for 5 minutes, following instructions on the pack. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a saucepan, add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the pepper and cook for a further 2 minutes. Stir the cous cous into the onion mixture with the peas and salmon. Heat through and serve. Delicious served hot or cold.

This Healthy Pompey recipe will provide your family with a healthy, balanced and tasty meal. For more healthy eating ideas and recipes visit www.healthypompey.com

Don’t stop on our zig-zags

Zig-zag lines keep an area car-free so people can cross the road safely – especially chil dren. You can get a ticket if you stop on a yellow school zig-zag between 8am and 4pm – even if you’re just dropping off or picking up children. Road safety co-ordinator Nicola Wa ight said: “Some parents feel it’s acceptable to drop their children off by stopping on zig-zag s. They think about the safety of their own childre n but are endangering other children.” C St Swithun’s R Children from e to drivers. with a messag

sea,

School, South

tre or Are you a school, children’s cen snapshots early years setting? Send your v.uk by .go to termtimes@portsmouthcc Friday 30 September 2011. May 2011 –

page 7

TermTimes

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page 8

TermTimes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; May 2011

Head, shoulders, nits and lice Headlice, also known as ‘nits’ is an extremely common condition among children and can be rife in schools. It spreads through head to head contact and is very infectious. It is therefore vital that children are checked regularly and that signs can be recognised easily.

How to spot them The most effective way to detect lice and the eggs is to use a louse comb. The best way to spot them is by using a magnifying glass and you should pay special attention around the ears and nape of the neck. Nits are found firmly attached to the hair shaft. They are oval and usually yellow to white. When they hatch they can reach 3mm long (the size of a sesame seed) when fully grown.

Treatment

If lice are detected, the entire family needs to be checked (especially children up to the age of 13 years). Those infected should then be treated either by wetcombing or with medicated lotion. Wet-combing involves removing the head lice by systematically combing washed and conditioned hair using a special fine-toothed comb with a spacing of less than 0.3mm. Your pharmacist can advise you on which combs are suitable. Alternatively you can use medicated lotions or sprays from your pharmacist – please read instructions carefully and seek advice if pregnant or breastfeeding. If the lice appear to be unaffected by the product (some lice may have developed resistance to a particular insecticide) or if the problem persists, seek advice from your school nurse, health visitor, pharmacist or GP. Clothes, towels, bedding, combs and brushes, which came in contact with the infested individual, should be disinfected either by leaving them outside for at least three days or by washing them at 60°C for 30 minutes.

Prevention

This page is for your opinions, emails, letters, questions, news and reviews….

Posed by models.

Contact termtimes@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or call 9283 4142.

Image from stock library.

Question: I’m worried about a friend as she drinks quite a lot and I’m worried about the effect this could be having on her children. I don’t want to upset her though. Answer: A new free and confidential workshop is beginning in May for parents who want to work towards changing their behaviour so they can have a better and more positive relationship with their children. Why don’t you mention to your friend that you have noticed she is drinking quite heavily and you are concerned about her. You could suggest she attends the workshop and offer to go with her as moral support. For more information about this course and other support contact the alcohol interventions team on 023 9284 1753.

Question: I’m expecting my second baby in July and want to find out about any breastfeeding support groups in the city? I had a lot of problems feeding my first baby but really want to give it another try this time. Answer: Over 20 breastfeeding peer supporters are volunteering across the city to offer mums information and encouragement to get started with breastfeeding, and overcome problems they may face with feeding their newborn.

STOP PRESS Term Times is no

w on Facebo ok. Why not post your parenti ng questions on our wall? page 10

TermTimes – May 2011

Peer supporters are all local mums who breastfed their own baby and who want to pass on their experience to other women. The role is voluntary and the supporters work with NHS midwives and health visitors. Mums can meet them at drop in sessions everyday of the week at different locations across the city. The supporters also visit the maternity ward at Queen Alexandra Hospital. For further information on groups, please search breastfeeding at www.portsmouth.nhs.uk

Kids

This section is written by you. If you want to write a book review or ‘Take over for 200’ words visit www.portsmouth.gov.uk/learning/9015.html

e n o Z

Playing it ‘fair’ on the air In order to spread the word of fairtrade I along with others wrote a letter to Express FM. Soon afterwards we received a letter asking us to come and appear on the breakfast show with Adrian Knight.

Altogether nine children took part to promote fairtrade. We showed them our bunting we had made in an attempt to break the world record. We received a copy of the broadcast and during our fairtrade assembly we played it to the rest of the school. Tell us about interesting things you have done in or out of school. Overall, it was a fantastic experience and we would like to thank everyone involved in the project. Email your story to termtimes@portsmouthcc.gov.uk Written by Katya Domasewska, aged 9, St Swithun’s Catholic Primary

Book worms

This issue’s book reviews

or send to Term Times, corporate communications, 3rd floor, Civic Offices, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AL by 30 September 2011.

Chocolate Box Girls: Cherry Crush by Cathy Cassidy Review by Gaia Osborne, aged 10, St Swithun’s Primary School (year 6) I really love this book. Cherry tells the story of what it’s like to move into a new family and finally feeling like she fits in until Shay, her new step-sister’s boyfriend, sweeps her off her feet. I think that any girls between the ages of 10-13 would enjoy reading this book as it can relate to girls at this age. I really recommend you buy or ask for this book as it’s got great description and adjectives and you can read it again and again.

Star rating:  drop everything... you need this book! page 11 May 2011 – TermTimes

Stubbington trip When we got off the coach we went to our dormitories to unpack. Afterwards we went to the Great Chamber which was a room where the staff could talk to us. In the Great Chamber they talked about what we could do at Stubbington. Afterwards we went back into our dormitories and played for a while. The bell rang, we all lined up in our groups ready for our first lesson. My group was the Warren. Our first lesson was making dens out of sticks. When we had finished we had a bowl of water thrown over our dens to see if it kept the water out. We had fun doing them. We enjoyed our other lessons too. Before bed I went to look for badgers. Unfortunately, we didn’t see any badgers but we saw an owl and a fox. At 8am the bell rang, we got dressed then lined up in our groups to go and get breakfast. After breakfast we all played a game where we were foxes and we had to find notes and keep out of the farmers’ way. I enjoyed that the most. I LOVE STUBBINGTON!!!

Share your views with us. Visit www.portsmouth.gov.uk/ learning/9015.html

Written by Lia Breeze-Jones, aged 6, College Park Infant School

Book worms

Send your book review, by 30 September 2011 to termtimes@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Inkheart by Cornelia Funke Review by Isabel Thompson-Whiteside, aged 11, St Swithun’s Primary School (year 6) This mind blowing book is going to set your imagination on fire and run wild. Meggie the main character in the book is a lover of books and her dad, Mo, hasn’t read aloud to her since her mother has mysteriously disappeared and Meggie is beginning to want to know more. Will Meggie ever rescue Mo from being captured by Capricorn for a powerful, magical, encrusted book that he saved and rebound? Read to find out. When a stranger knocks at the door, Mo is forced to reveal a big secret he has been hiding from Meggie and they are in danger. When he reads aloud, words come alive and mysterious, dangerous characters page 12

TermTimes – May 2011

slowly step out of the pages. Meggie is finding herself suddenly living in kinds of adventures that she has only found out in story books that take her eye. Read this book to find out what happens. Cornelia really captures the emotions in this book and has lovely description in it like it should be a poem. This book is very adventurous and a very clever idea. This book catches my eye out of many books I’ve read and is a magnificent book. Do you dare to read it aloud?!

Star rating:  drop everything... you need this book!

KidsZone Our trip to the theatre On Tuesday 1 March, we went on a trip to Groundlings Theatre with Year 3. The play we saw there was about Victorians and I really loved it because it was really funny. I was invited up to shine Queen Victoria’s shoes and I had to smile when I saw them because she was wearing ballet shoes. This is what happened: The play starts with two scientists trying to find each other. Once they managed this they selected a person from the crowd and gave them a goofy hat to wear. They then disappeared backstage to get changed.

the man stole. After that the man gave Victoria directions to the station where she caught the train to Kensington.

They returned accompanied by weird music and they were dressed as Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Albert proposed to Victoria and when she accepted he announced, “We will hold an exhibition.”

When she arrived at the house Victoria knocked on the door and asked to see the man’s plans for the Crystal Palace. Then it was announced that Prince Albert had died. Victoria used her napkin to wipe away her tears.

Victoria then set off to find the man who was going to build the crystal palace. She stopped to meet a man with a horse and then that man used the audience to do all of his work. Victoria felt sorry for the children and gave them pretend coins which

Star rating:

    

After lunch we were able to practice our miming skills with the actors. A great day out and real fun. Written by Felicity Walker, aged 9, St George’s Beneficial Primary School

drop everything... you need this book great read good book but have read better not great don’t bother... zzzzzzzzzzzz

Beast Quest: Claw the Giant Monkey by Adam Blade Review by Daniel Moseley, aged 8, Wimborne Junior School (year 3) I read Claw recently.... I loved it!!! You should read it because of the: •

characters

•

excitement

•

scariness

•

scenery

I really think whoever picks this up is going to love it!! P.S. Please tell Ms Mason that me and my friends would love to have Claw in the school libray.

Star rating:  drop everything... you need this book! page 13 May 2011 – TermTimes

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TermTimes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; May 2011

Choosing the right kind of childcare setting can be a difficult decision, but help is available to guide you to a solution that meets you and your child’s needs. Introducing childcare is a new publication from the council aimed at helping parents find what’s right for them. It explains the different types of care available to different age groups, highlights some of the financial help available, contains top tips on finding childcare and suggests questions to ask to help you along the way. One of the key concerns for most parents when choosing childcare is whether their child will be safe, happy and well cared for. ‘Introducing childcare’ tells you about the range of safeguards in place, such as Ofsted registration, to ensure that your child will be well looked after.

Free early education for three and four year olds Did you know… all children are eligible for a free nursery education grant from the term after their third birthday until they start school. You are currently entitled to use up to 15 hours per week, 38 weeks per year. Settings will offer the free entitlement flexibly dependent on what best suits their setting, children and parents. Flexible childcare for older children Flexicare is a new way of sorting out childcare for older children, aged eight to 14. Provided by registered carers, Flexicare offers older children more independence to go to activities or see friends while still having a contact point and house to return to. Where can I get a copy? You can get a copy of ‘Introducing childcare’ by contacting Portsmouth CHAT – Family Information Service on 023 9268 8830, by emailing chat@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or in person from the central library. It is also available to download on www.portsmouthcc.gov.uk/learning in the early learning and childcare section.

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Special feature

men insp iring learning

Fathers can be a positive force in their children’s education, when they get involved their children are likely to do better in school. Positive involvement from dads in their children’s learning is associated with better educational, social and emotional outcomes, including:

Getting men involved in Portsmouth That’s why schools, preschools and children’s centres in Portsmouth are coming up with new ways to get dads, granddads, uncles and other male role models into their settings.

•

better exam results

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better school attendance and behaviour

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less likely to be involved with the police

From family roast dinners every week to setting up sessions to create Mothering Sunday gifts with their children, the ideas are practical and flexible so as many men as possible can be involved.

•

higher quality of later relationships

Here are a few examples from across the city…

•

better mental health

That’s not to say that mums don’t matter anymore. What the studies have shown is that both mums and dads involvement are important for children and one is not a substitute for the other.

Opening up the treasure of books

Unlock the big blue treasure chest at Stamshaw Infant School and an exciting world of pirates, sharks, space travel and football heroes is revealed. But you can only open the chest if you’re a member of a very special club. The club is BERT – the Boys Enjoy Reading Team – which is successfully encouraging boys to read more. Male volunteers – dads, uncles and granddads – come in once a week to read with pupils. Every time a boy reads a book he gets a sticker, and 10 stickers mean an award in assembly. BERT member Louie Crosswell, seven, said: “It’s really fun and really good for my reading.” Volunteer Tony Turner, 76, said: “I get satisfaction when I see them improving. Their faces light up when they’re talking to you.” Head teacher Jo Cooper has no doubt BERT works. “All the boys have made accelerated progress in their learning,” she said. page 16

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Ahoy there! Stamshaw Junior School have been piloting a scheme to forge stronger links between schools and the navy. Naval ratings, male and female, visited the school for a week to run activities such as code-breaking games, team work to cross a pretend river and signalling messages. The interactive activities all help to develop confidence, decision making and planning skills. Kalem Carter, weapons engineer, was one of the sailors involved in the pilot. He said: “It has been a really good opportunity for me as I want to be a primary school teacher when I leave the navy. The children have been really enthusiastic.” Head teacher, Simon Cattermole, thinks it is important to encourage visitors into the school. He said: “It is really important for pupils to have visitors from the wider community to give them the opportunity to relate to adults who are not staff members. It is important to have positive male role models in particular, as not everyone has male influences at home.”

Men: find out more Whether you are a parent, grandparent or just want to volunteer, approach your local school and see how you could get involved. Schools are always looking for people to help on trips, at events and to help with reading. Many children’s centres run groups or activities aimed at male carers. Contact 023 9268 8830 to find out more. If you are interested in learning more about the association between dads’ involvement and doing better at school visit www.education.gov.uk and search for ‘engaging fathers’. page 17 May 2011 –

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Jack*, 11, has been in foster care since he was six – and it’s transformed his life. “My experience in foster care has been brilliant,” he says. “Every foster carer has brought something different – in my current placement it’s humour.”

every day and I’m getting above level 5. I want to go to college and my dream is to become an accountant because they earn lots of money.”

He has been with his current carers for nearly two years.

Being in foster care has also enabled him to enjoy more activities. “I love football and my foster parents encourage me to join in activities. I go to football club and judo club and I do painting at home with my foster carers.”

“I didn’t used to go to school, but being in foster care has changed that. Foster carers have encouraged me to attend school and the more I go the easier the work is. I now go

Jack thinks more people should foster. “It’s an experience of a lifetime. You’ll get naughty kids and well-behaved kids. It’ll be challenging but it will keep you busy.” So what makes a good foster carer? Jack says: “For me they need to have humour. Also they need to be active and go out with you and do stuff and play with you.“ *Name changed to avoid identification

Could you foster? We need more foster carers to offer homes to children like Jack. If you have a spare room and the commitment to care for a child or young person then please get in touch. We offer competitive rates, mentoring, training and support, including out-ofhours support. To find out more. visit www.fosterportsmouth.co.uk or call 023 9282 9846.

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out&about SUMMER 2011

in yellow are d te h g li h ig h ts All even

Beaches and Battleships guided walk Southsea visitor information centre. 2.30pm. Adults £3, Leisure Card £1, accompanied children free.

30 May–29 Aug Live at the Bandstand Sunday season, West Battery Gardens, behind D-Day Museum. A different style of music each week, 1–4pm. www.visitportsmouth.co.uk 30 May–3 Jun Half-term Kidz Club Port Solent. Entertainment on Wicked Wednesday and Super Saturday.

FREE

VENUE CONTACT DETAILS Portsmouth City Council visitor information services (VIS) Tel: 023 9282 6722 email: vis@portsmouthcc.gov.uk web: www.visitportsmouth.co.uk Gunwharf Quays Tel: 023 9283 6700 web: www.gunwharf-quays.com

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Tel: 023 9283 9766 e-mail: enquiries@historicdockyard.co.uk web: www.historicdockyard.co.uk

Treasure Hunt Southsea visitor information centre. 2.30pm.

Portsmouth Guildhall Tel: 023 9282 4355

Portsmouth City Council museums and records service Tel: 023 9282 7261 email: mvs@portsmouthcc.gov.uk web: www.portsmouthmuseums.co.uk

Kings Theatre Tel: 023 9282 8282 web: www.kings-southsea.com New Theatre Royal Tel: 023 9264 9000 web: www.newtheatreroyal.com Aspex Gallery Tel: 023 9277 8080 email: info@aspex.org.uk web: www.aspex.org.uk Spinnaker Tower Tel: 023 9285 7521 email: info@spinnakertower.co.uk web: www.spinnakertower.co.uk Royal Marines Museum Tel: 023 9281 9385 email: info@royalmarinesmuseum.co.uk web: www.royalmarinesmuseum.co.uk Blue Reef Aquarium Tel: 023 9287 5222 email: portsmouth@bluereefaquarium.co.uk web: www.bluereefaquarium.co.uk No 6 Cinema Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Tel: 0781 5650753 web: www.no6cinema.co.uk Odeon, Port Solent Tel: 0871 2244007 web: www.odeon.co.uk Portsmouth Film Society Omega Centre, Omega Road Tel: 023 9229 1346 web: www.portsmouthfilmsociety.org.uk Vue, Gunwharf Quays Tel: 0871 2240240 web: www.myvue.com page 19 May 2011 –

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Portsmouth Schools’ Music Festival

28 June – 1 July 2011 Over 1000 children of all ages from Portsmouth schools are taking part in Portsmouth Schools’ Music Festival at Portsmouth Guildhall from Tuesday 28 June to Friday 1 July 2011. If your child’s school is taking part you will be able to purchase tickets through the school. Tickets will also be available on the night.

Harry Potter Day The Learning Place. 10am–2pm. Make butter beer, friendship bracelets and potions, and decorate spiders. £2 per child, adults free. Max two children per adult. 6 Derby Road, North End, 023 9262 1860

You’ve Been Framed National Museum of the Royal Navy. Maritime-themed photo frames workshop, 11am–1pm, 2–4pm.

Family Bike Fun The Learning Place. Bike maintenance and ride, 9.30am–1.30pm. £5 per bike. 6 Derby Road, North End, 023 9262 1860.

The Mole Who Knew It Was None Of His Business New Theatre Royal. Ages three plus, 2.30pm. £5 (£8 adults).

D-Day Walk Southsea visitor information centre. 2.30pm. Adults £3, Leisure Card £1, accompanied children free.

Registered Charity No. 259422

Activities and displays for all the family • Combat displays • Abseiling • High aerial slides • Rock climbing simulator • Family Activities • Commando Fit

Sun 5 June 10am – 5pm

FREE EVEN * T

Southsea Seafront, PO4 9PX info@royalmarinesmuseum.co.uk

www.meetthemarines.co.uk *Free event in the grounds of the Royal Marines Museum. Normal admission applies to the Museum. Gift Aid your ticket and receive free entry to the Museum for a year.

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Round the Harbours Bike Ride A fantastic cycling challenge for riders of all abilities and ages to raise money for the British Heart Foundation. With four locations to start and finish your ride from and two ferry crossings this is a real fun event. Entrance fees apply. To find out more call 0808 100 2109 or visit www.bhf.org.uk/get-involved/events

Happy Birthday Aspex Celebrating 30 years of contemporary art. Free fun workshops, party games and lots of cake. 11am–5pm.

JUNE

Nine out of 10 child car seats are unsafe That’s what we’ve found, on average, when we check car seats for parents. To help you protect your little super heroes, we’re holding more free safety checks. The free car-seat checks run 10am – 3.30pm as follows: •

2 June: Tesco, North Harbour

•

2 July: B&Q, Pompey Centre

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17 August: Gunwharf Quays car park

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1 September: Sainsbury’s, Farlington

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6 October: Asda, Fratton

We also have a checklist of questions to ask before you buy a car seat. For more information and safety check dates, go to www.portsmouth.gov.uk and put ‘in car safety’ in the search box.

16–26

Portsmouth Festivities: Space City A number of events are taking place including a spectacular free night time show on Castle Field on Sunday 26 June 2011. Visit www.portsmouthfestivities.co.uk The Rowans Hospice Moonlit Memories Walk Complete a 12 mile night time walk from Southsea Common and raise money for the Rowan’s Hospice. Starts 11pm. Registration fee £20. Open to men and women aged 16 and over. To register call 023 9223 8533 or visit www.rowanshospice.co.uk

Fathers’ Day

Classic car extravaganza Port Solent. Open 9am – 5pm.

Paulsgrove and Wymering Annual Carnival Carnival procession leaves King Richard School at 10.30am to walk around the estate ending on Hempsted Green at midday. Local bands, small fair and refreshments. 10am – 5pm.

Portsmouth Summer Fair and Picnic Victoria Park. Crafts, stalls, rides, green transport show and pedal powered live music with local bands and DJs. 11am – 4pm.

25–26 Armed Forces Weekend Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. A weekend of FREE events in support of British Armed Forces and Naval Heritage. Armed Forces Day Celebration with The National Museum of the Royal Navy on 25 June, 2–4.30pm. Royal Navy Ships, HMS Daring and HMS Gloucester open days 10am – 3.30pm. Centenary Birthday Celebration of The National Museum of the Royal Navy 26 June, 11am – 4.30pm. 26

The Owl and the Pussycat The New Theatre Royal. Tickets start from £5. Call 023 9264 9000.

JULY 1-2

The South Coast Proms A relaxed ‘picnic in the park’ summer Royal Marines Massed Bands musical spectacular raises money for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity. Held in the historic and picturesque setting of Whale Island. Tickets on 023 9254 8499 or visit www.southcoastproms.com

2 Jul – 7 Jan 2012 Birds, beasts and bugs City Museum. The fabulous natural history collection of Henry Guermonprez in its entirety, illustrating its breadth and the wide-ranging interests of this extraordinary Victorian collector, and explores its relevance to Portsmouth and the surrounding area today. 10

Family Fun Day at Fort Purbrook A Victorian themed fun day at the Peter Ashley Activity Centre featuring displays from the Fort Cumberland Guard, traditional games, fancy dress, tug of war, pony rides and come and try sessions in archery, climbing, judo, rifle-shooting. 11am – 4pm. Call 01243 641 306.

29 Jul – 26 Aug Funday Fridays Entertainment for young people from 1–4pm every Friday in the school holidays. Includes street theatre, creative workshops and street dance / break dancing, plus free face painting in Commercial Road and Arundel Street.

AUGUST 2–25

Out to Lunch City Museum. Join us for the amazing variety of free events for the family, including birds of prey, bugs fun and starting off with Nolan Davies, Caterpillar crafts and Crazy M the Clown. Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in August. Drop in 12–2pm.

4, 11, 18 and 25 Tiny Tots Telescope Tales The National Museum of the Royal Navy. Come to the family area for fun, seaside stories, singing and craft activities. Free drop-in session for under fives and accompanying adults. 11am – 12pm. Call 023 9272 7584 or email events@nmrn.org.uk 14

RNLI Portsmouth Lifeboat Station Open Day Free family fun event. Rescue demonstrations, interactive displays, stalls and games. 11am – 3pm.

26–27 Eastney Beam Engine House open day Free admission.1–5pm 27–29 Portsmouth International Kite Festival This free event will take place on Southsea Common for the 20th time. Fantastic displays and kites of all shapes and sizes. www.portsmouthkitefestival.org.uk

Holiday fun at Port Solent Free children’s activities take place between 11am – 4pm on ‘Wicked’ Wednesdays and ‘Super’ Saturdays throughout the school holidays at Port Solent, including: •

Wednesday 1 June visit the lighthouse keeper

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Saturday 4 June giant whale moored on the Boardwalk

•

Wednesday 27 July traditional Punch and Judy show

•

Saturday 6 August creepy crawlies of the reptile farm

•

Wednesday 10 August free donkey ride

•

Wednesday 17 August Marjin circus workshop

•

Saturday 20 August Kidsrome mobile farm

Congratulations to the following prize winners from the last issue of Term Times: Little Nutty Nutcase cycle helmets: Joe Benfield (Wimborne Infant), Jamie Wicken (Wimborne Junior), Jared Pitt (Meon Junior), Lauren Jervis (Court Lane Junior), Kelly Angel Leeson (Victory Primary), Freya Goodwin (Craneswater Junior) Family ticket to the pantomime at The Kings Theatre: Trudie Burchell Victorian Festival of Christmas tickets: Sarah Jane, Janine Jupp, Annette Lowery, Mrs Upton, Katrina Ridge Spinnaker Tower tickets: Jackie Sandy and Theresa Slydell

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Useful contacts Portsmouth CHAT – family information service Tel: 023 9268 8830 Email: chat@portsmouthcc.gov.uk SMS Text: 07813 684234

Ask Sherlock

The following are useful contacts for finding out about activities in your local area – many of which are free.

Children’s Centres Children’s centres offer access to a wide range of services for families with children under five years. For further information on the range of services offered please contact your local centre from the list below:

Online directory of services, activities, community and voluntary groups in and around Portsmouth. Visit www.asksherlock.info

Buckland Sure Start Children’s Centre Tel: 9273 3440

Aiming High for Disabled Children

Drayton and Farlington Children’s Centre Tel: 07950 896270

A range of fun and exciting activities such as specialist and inclusive holiday play schemes, youth groups and family days out for children and young people with disabilities and their families in Portsmouth. To find out more contact Abi Jameson on 023 9284 1418 or email shortbreaks@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Cumberland Children’s Centre Tel: 9273 3161

Fratton Children’s Centre Tel: 9273 4385 Landport Sure Start Centre Tel: 9281 5005 Milton Park Children’s Centre Tel: 07534 015582

Paulsgrove Children’s Centre (Paulsgrove Primary) Tel: 9238 5995 Paulsgrove Children’s Centre (Saxon Shore) Tel: 9238 3195 Portsdown Children’s Centre Tel: 9237 8393 Portsea Sure Start Children’s Centre Tel: 9273 2925 Somerstown Sure Start Children’s Centre Tel: 9282 1816 Southsea Children’s Centre Tel: 07949 726166 St Cuthberts Children’s Centre Tel: 9282 2556 Stamshaw Children’s Centre Tel: 9263 9728

North End Children’s Centre Tel: 07958 564809

The Brambles Nursery and Children’s Centre Tel: 9282 8606

Northern Parade Children’s Centre Tel: 9266 0866

The Willows Children’s Centre Tel: 9266 6918

Win a family ticket to

Competition time…

•

your name, age and school/ nursery

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author and name of book

•

short review no more than 75 words – grown ups can write them for younger children

•

star rating

•

contact number

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Peppa Pig’s Party is on at The Kings Theatre, Southsea on Saturday 2 July (10am, 1pm and 4pm) and Sunday 3 July (10am and 1pm) Tickets £15.50, £13.50, family ticket £50 Box office: 023 9282 8282 Groups: 023 9285 2236 www.kings-southsea.com www.peppapiglive.com

To enter just send in a short book review for the Kidszone pages (see page 11) before Friday 17 June 2011 including:

You could win a family ticket (4 seats) to see Peppa Pig’s Party at 1pm on Saturday 2 July 2011.

Send your entry to Term Times Peppa Pig competition, corporate communications, 3rd floor, Civic Offices, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AL or email to termtimes@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

This BAFTA award-winning children’s TV show is recreated live on stage at The Kings Theatre featuring beautifully true-to-life puppets, for the first time.

Live on

stage

SportsNews

Free swimming is back

Free swimming for children and older people in Portsmouth started again last month.

Proof of age (e.g. bus pass, passport, birth certificate or driving licence) might be needed.

The scheme is for people aged 16 and under, or 60 and over, and runs at Eastney Swimming Pool, Charter Community Sports Centre and the Mountbatten Leisure Centre.

Once registered, you will be given a free swimming membership card, which can be used during any designated free session on a pool’s timetable. Some terms and conditions apply.

To qualify, you need to register by filling in a form (from one of the pools or downloaded from the council’s website - see below). This can be done on your first visit.

For more information, timetables and an application form, go to www.portsmouth.gov.uk and put ‘free swimming’ in the search box. Or call:

You will need:

•

a £2 one-off administration fee

Eastney Swimming Pool: 023 9273 1786

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proof you live in Portsmouth (e.g. utility or council tax bill)

Charter Community Sports Centre: 023 9283 8798

•

Mountbatten Leisure Centre: 023 9262 6500

• • •

a valid Portsmouth library card

Get set for the Games The London 2012 Games will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Olympics on home soil – so don’t miss your chance to play a part. Get Set is the official education programme of the Games, aimed at giving youngsters aged from three to 19 the chance of becoming involved. Schools can join up and get games, films, news and competitions. They can then apply for benefits including the chance to win a visit from official Games mascots Wenlock and Mandeville. Your school can find out more by searching getset.london2012.com online. The Big Screen in Guildhall Square will be the place to experience the excitement of the Games. Plans from London 2012 include sports under the Big Screen and coverage of live action. During the weekend of 22–24 July 2011, there will be celebrations across the city marking one year to go until the Games. www.portsmouth.gov.uk/ 2012games

Log on… To find out more about inter school sporting events and results visit the Portsmouth School Sports Partnership website at www.portsmouthssp.co.uk page 23 May 2011 – TermTimes

Portsmouth children need foster carers from across the south Find out more at www.fosterportsmouth.co.uk or call 023 9282 9846

Come along to the Spinnaker Tower on Wednesday 15 June, 7-9pm to find out more