Families Pennines January February 2016 issue 30 by Rachel Bentley Marketing

LOCAL INFORMATION

for parents of 0-12 year olds in

HUDDERSFIELD DEWSBURY HALIFAX BRIGHOUSE TODMORDEN LITTLEBOROUGH OLDHAM ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE SADDLEWORTH

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

Health, work/life balance and a giveaway BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE

Things to do with kids on a cold, wet day PLUS OUR REGULAR FEATURES...

Local & Education News, Clubs & Classes and What’s On

FOR SALE ESTABLISHED PARENTING MAGAZINE

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NEWS EDUCATION & CHILDCARE CLUBS & CLASSES NEW YEAR NEW YOU BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE WHAT’S ON

FAMILIES PENNINES Tel: 07580 612 800 editor@familiespennines.co.uk www.familiespennines.co.uk @FamiliesPenn

/FamiliesPennines

CIRCULATION 20,000 DEADLINE Early February 2016 FRONT COVER Shutterstock DESIGNED BY Theresa McDermott, designedbytree.com 07462 961793 PRINTED BY Russell Press, 0115 9784505, www.russellpress.com Copyright Families Pennines Jan/Feb 16 Families Pennines is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Pennines are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

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LOC AL INFO for paren RMA ts of TION 0-12 year HUD olds in DERSFIEL D DEW SBUR Y HALIFAX BRIG HOU SE TOD MOR LITTLEBO DEN ROU

GH ASHTON OLD HAM -UND ER-L SADDLEW YNE ORT H

WELCOME

Happy New Year! What does the next year offer you and yours? If you are looking for inspiration then you have come to the right place. Not only are we covering all the usuals – local and education News, things to do with (and without) the kids all the way through Valentine’s Day and Half-Term to Mother’s Day plus activities and classes – we also offer you some things to think about in our annual New Year, New You feature. Do you want to take a new direction personally or professionally? Look at a new career or take up exercise? Improve your family’s diet? Read on… Plus trending on our website are real family issues including education, health and wellbeing so go on over to www.families pennines.co.uk for loads more to inspire you and your family. As for your Families Pennines Editor, I am still at the helm and looking for the right person (or people) to take over, someone who would really like to invest in their own future and achieve a great work/life balance – could that be you…? Thanks as always to our advertisers for keeping this great resource free to you and don’t forget to mention you saw them in Families Pennines when you call or visit. Your Families Pennines Editor,

Rachel Bentley editor@familiespennines.co.uk

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NEWS BRIGHOUSE BUSINESSES REUNITE PENSIONER WITH PRIZED POSSESSION On a cold evening last November, Brighouse businesses took on the challenge to find out what had happened to the car of Brighouse man, Gareth Evans. Mr Evans had parked up for a quick trim in the Town Centre and on walking back to his car found it was gone. He took a look at the other streets in the area but to no avail. Devastated, he called in at The Pot Spot, on Park Street, who helped him contact the police. When his daughter, our own Editor Rachel Bentley, heard the news she swung into action and contacted Simply Flowers on Commercial Street, to see if they would Tweet the loss and see if anyone knew anything.

Purl’s Handcraft

Crocheted silk and cotton baby booties and hats lovingly designed and hand-crafted in the Calder Valley from soft, gentle, natural fabrics.

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SUN POWERED SCHOOL!

Good Samaritans, Lesley from Simply Flowers and Graeme from The Pot Spot, went above and beyond by getting out into the streets and happily found the car in perfect condition. Mr Evans sends his thanks to Graeme and Lesley for their help and to the local PCSO, Jane, who was very kind to him when he was reunited with his prized possession.

A SPLASH OF SPRING COLOUR FROM PURL’S HANDCRAFT Dreaming of longer, warmer days? Well Purl’s Handcraft is looking ahead to the end of winter too! Whilst still wanting to wrap our little ones up snug and cosy, Purl’s Handcraft has a new range of slippers for fairer weather. All slippers are made with either a silk/cotton yarn or 100% cotton. A range of complementary hats will also be available soon and can be viewed at www.purlshandcraft.co.uk. All products are made entirely by hand, sourcing materials locally where possible, and commissions taken. Please contact Ronnie at Purl’s Handcraft for further information – purlshandcraft@gmail.com.

Carr Green Primary School in Brighouse is saving money and providing cleaner energy after solar panels were installed at the school by Hub Energy. The panels will generate 10% of the school’s energy, saving 15 tonnes of carbon dioxide every year. The cost of the panels was covered by a loan from Calderdale Council. Surplus electricity is being sold to the national grid and the panels pay for themselves within eight years. Carr Green Primary School Head Teacher, Paul Mashinter, says, “At Carr Green Primary we value the principles of sustainability and we have some first class facilities including a Kid’s Kitchen, an outdoor classroom and allotments. Solar Panels will provide an additional exciting educational opportunity whilst saving the school money on energy costs which can now be used in other areas.” Calderdale Community Energy, which managed this project, is looking for more schools to develop energy saving projects. For information about the range of energy saving projects visit www. calderdalecommunityenergy.org. uk or contact Calderdale Council’s Environmental Projects team on 01422 392250.

BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH Last year over half a million people took part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch, spotting more than 8.5 million birds across the UK, and the organisers are hoping this year’s watch will be a record-breaking event. This year’s survey takes place on 30 and 31 January. To take part, simply spend one hour counting the birds in your garden or local park, and record the highest number of each bird species seen at any one time. The morning is the best time to look, when the birds are out and about feeding

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NEWS after a cold winter night. To sign up for a free Big Garden Birdwatch 2016 pack, go to www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch. For more RSPB fun take a look at our What’s On pages for events and activities at RSPB Old Moor Nature Reserve, near M1 at Barnsley. www.rspb.org.uk/ oldmoor

Chief executive of the National Day Nursery Association, Purnima Tanuku OBE, says, “These latest results show the great work that our sector is achieving, despite all the challenges they are facing with regards to funding shortfalls and difficulties with recruitment. “The gap between the least and most advantaged children is slowly narrowing, more needs to be done to improve this situation. These results show the importance of sufficient funding for nursery places for eligible two-year-olds, which must be of high quality to make a difference to their life chances.

A new initiative means increased safety at nurseries with the introductions of a ‘gold standard’ known as Millie’s Mark.

“With the impending doubling of funded childcare hours for three and four-year-olds, this documented progress must not be stalled by limits on funding reducing the quality of the early years education being received in private, voluntary and independent nurseries.”

In 2015 the Government introduced Millie’s Mark, a scheme which means that every nursery will have first-aid trained staff in the premises at all times.

For information on Millie’s Mark please visit www.milliestrust.com and information on the National Day Nursery Association is at www.ndna.org.uk.

NURSERY IMPROVEMENTS

Following the loss of Millie Thomson who choked whilst at her Cheadle Hulme nursery in 2012, her parents Joanne and Dan have successfully campaigned government to ensure that all newly qualified staff with the childcare level 2 and 3 qualification will automatically have training in emergency paediatric first aid or a full paediatric first aid certificate.

LITTLEBOROUGH LIONS RECOGNISES COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION Local mum and businesswoman, Neela Jackson, is the proud recipient of a well-deserved certificate and floral gift from Littleborough & District Lions, which awards a bouquet a month to someone who they feel has made a significant contribution to the local community.

SHUTTERSTOCK

Nurseries that reach the ‘gold standard’ of care will receive a Millie’s Mark certificate to display. This will give parents reassurance that their child is being cared for by a range of trained professionals should something go wrong. In addition, the latest results of the Early Years Foundation Stage profiles have revealed that more children are achieving a good level of development when they enter infant school, thanks to the care and skills they learn at nursery. They say the gap between girls and boys is getting narrower and also that the difference between disadvantaged children and their peer group is shrinking, though not by as much as would be desirable.

This was given for Neela’s contribution to events including the British Legion Poppy Picnics, volunteering for a group that organises local events, fundraising for the Lions Christmas Hampers for local families in need through holding online shopping events via the Star Tree Studio and bringing together local businesses to organise buying & fixing Christmas Lights up in the village.

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT TOTTIES THIS SPRING... fairandfunky WORKSHOPS THIS FEBRUARY HALF-TERM 16th & 17th Feb just turn up from 9.30am - 11.30am Make a spring planter or bird feeder from recycled bits & pieces from the garden £3.50 per child NOW IN STOCK... Spring Bulbs New Season Seeds Seed Potatoes 20 plus varieties Camellias full of buds & flowers Winter Flowering Shrubs Hedging Plants Primulas MOTHER’S DAY SUNDAY 6TH MARCH Get gifts & cards here Treat your mum to brunch 10am or lunch 12pm - 3.30pm Booking essential

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EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE New Year, and New Head for Bradford Grammar School Dr Simon Hinchliffe, who starts in his new role this January, will be the 29th Head of Bradford Grammar School (BGS). He succeeds Kevin Riley who retired late last year. Dr Hinchliffe, who was Deputy Head at the School, was formerly Head of the Sixth Form at Wolverhampton Grammar School where he had worked for fourteen years. Previously, he taught at the University of Wolverhampton and worked as a field scientist at the University of Edinburgh.

Bradford Grammar School provides co-educational education to children from 6 to 18 years of age. It is in the Telegraph’s Top Ten Best Value Independent Schools in the UK in 2015. School buses and direct train services bring children from Calderdale and Kirklees (check the BGS advertisement for routes). www.bradfordgrammar.com.

Rugby World Cup Star inspires Heathfield children The children of Years 5 and 6 at Heathfield School were asked to get changed a little bit earlier for a games lesson, as there was a special guest who wanted to see them. It was an excited group which welcomed their surprise visitor, Old Rishworthian and Rugby World Cup star, George Ford.

Dr Hinchcliffe says, “It is a tremendous privilege to have the opportunity to serve Bradford Grammar School as its twenty-ninth Head and I am hugely excited by the prospect of working with students and their families, colleagues and Governors in my new role.”

The young sportsmen and women from Heathfield quizzed George in a lively question and answer session. He generously donated signed shirts and rugby balls, and posed for a succession of photographs and autographs too.

He continues, “I intend to play a full and active part in the life of this highly successful and busy school. The range of students’ interests and achievements at BGS is simply astonishing. BGS is a very happy school, at ease with excellence, deeply committed to developing the whole child – a school that provides a fabulous start in life for those who pass through its classrooms and halls. BGS provides an education that enriches mind, body and spirit.”

George talked about what he had to do to get into a national team – and the importance of listening to his coaches – which was sobering advice about the amount of training which professional sportsmen and women had to undergo in order to get to international standard.

Dates to note: Junior School Open Evening 12 Jan 2016 – 6.00pm Senior School Open Morning 13 Jan 2016 – 9.15am Sixth Form Taster Morning 8 March 2016 – 8.45am Senior and Junior School Open Morning 14 April 2016 – 9.15am

George Tweeted, “Great to be back at my old School yesterday, brought back some good memories, thanks!”

The children went back to their games lessons with a special feeling that some of the star-dust had rubbed off, that any target was achievable given enough determination and perseverance.

Mr Anthony Wilkins, the Head of Heathfield, says, “It was a privilege for the Heathfield children to meet with George Ford, and his visit

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EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE Bradford Gram 87 x 130 advert 07/12/2015 10:20 Page 1

was an inspiration for Heathfielders who might become the sporting superstars of the future!” For more about Heathfield contact 01422 823564, admin@heathfieldjunior.co.uk, www.rishworth-school.co.uk.

Major overhaul to SATs and GCSEs - is your child ready? Did you know that there has been significant changes to SATs and GCSEs?

SATs The SATs curriculum for maths and English for Primary

schools in the UK has recently had a major overhaul. When children take their SATs tests for they will have to answer English questions like: • circle all the determiners in the sentence below... • complete the sentence below to use the subjunctive form... • underline the longest possible noun phrase... For maths, new topics have been added such as Algebra, Fraction Arithmetic, Roman Numerals and many more.

GCSEs

GCSE courses in England changed over to a new grading system. This will affect pupils currently in Year 10 or below. The old ‘A* to G’ grades are being replaced by numbers between 9 (the top grade) and 1 (the lowest grade). In addition, all the GCSE exam specifications are being updated too. The expert tutors at NumberWorks’nWords, Huddersfield, will ensure your child has an excellent understanding of each of the topics and is fully prepared for the SATs tests and their tuition caters fully for the changes to GCSEs in maths & English too. To book a free assessment contact 01484 487911, huddersfield@ numberworks.com, www.numberworks.com/huddersfield.

Special dates for Oldham Hulme Grammar School The woodland at Oldham Hulme Grammar School will be transformed into a magical, enchanted forest for a special open event for Early Years. The event is on Saturday 9 January from 10-11 am, with activities outside and indoors, so do remember to wear your wellies and a warm coat! And for the Senior School, the Year 7 Entrance Exam is on 13 January 8.45am to 3.30pm. For more information, a tour of the facilities for all ages, registering for the Year 7 Entrance Exam or visiting the Winter Wonderland call 0161 624 4497 or see www.ohgs.co.uk.

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EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE Hipperholme Grammar School triumphs at Independent Schools Association awards

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Hipperholme Grammar School has won a prestigious award for best practice in financial management from the Independent Schools Association.

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The school was announced as the 2015 ISA Award for Financial Management at the association’s Autumn Study Conference on Friday 13 November.

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The award win recognises how Hipperholme Grammar School – which takes in students aged three to 18 years from across Calderdale, Huddersfield and the wider West Yorkshire area – has excelled in all areas of financial management and taken steps to improve efficiency through operational best practice in areas including school transport, catering and marketing.

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Headmaster Jack Williams comments, “We were thrilled to be named as the winner of this award for 2015. Over the past three years, we have successfully initiated and completed numerous projects that, collectively, have led to a major upturn in the financial future of the school.” F

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ACAdEMIC ExCEllEnCE Is Only pART Of THE sTORy

11 plus tuition on the rise as parents seek selective school place for their child

Our results reflect the long tradition of excellence, where students are supported in small classes by well-qualified and dedicated teachers. Furthermore the individual care of your child will always be of paramount importance to us and we provide a variety of activities that go beyond the classroom. If you’re looking for the ideal place for your child’s education, you won’t be disappointed.

Recently the first grammar school in 50 years was given the green light for development. The new school will take 90 pupils later this year. It is thought this could herald a new era of selective schools emerging across the country.

0161 624 4497 | www.ohgs.co.uk | admin@ohgs.co.uk

The 11 plus has historically been the way of selecting those students most suited to an advanced academic stream like grammar schools. Explore Learning, which has 117 tuition centres across the UK, offers a tailored course to prepare children for the 11 plus exam, experiencing a 23% rise in attendance last year compared with 2014, showing a rising demand from parents. The sessions cover verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, literacy skills and whatever currently is appropriate for the exam. Carey Ann Dodah, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning says, “Any parent who has a child in year five that wants to send their child to their local grammar school, should now begin preparation. They

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EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE should develop many abilities alongside those covered in the exam so that they become a well-rounded, confident 10 year old not just a child primed to pass a test. This is definitely the ethos that underpins our classes at Explore Learning.” All parents are eligible for a FREE trial session where, together with their children, they can come in, meet the tutors and receive an assessment on how Explore Learning can help. For a full list of centres and their opening times visit www.explorelearning. co.uk.

YOUR CHILDREN ARE AMAZING ALREADY. WE JUST HELP THEM PROVE IT.

An end to the Act of Worship? A study from the Arts and Humanities Research Council has said that British schools should no longer be forced to include a daily act of worship. In reality, they say that 76% of schools do not provide an act of worship, so in effect are breaking the law. The Council claims that because these acts tend to be Christian, they could discriminate against other religions. Parents often do not realise that they can remove their child from worship too, they said.

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At the moment, schools in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland are, in theory, obligated to provide a daily act of collective worship. While in faith schools, this would be in line with the school’s particular Hudds_Assessment_Voucher_new.indd faith, in non-religious schools, the act of worship at the momentHudds_Assessment_Voucher_new.indd tends to take on a Christian flavour, though it is usually nondenominational. Hudds_Ass

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The University of Leicester has made recommendations that the government re-think the rule. They state problems with the law, which was introduced in 1945, including how appropriate acts of worship are in a multicultural society, protecting the rights of all religious groups plus those with no faith, and raise concerns that the acts do not enhance the spiritual education of children. What do you think? Email editor@familiespennines.co.uk and we might come back to this subject in a future issue.

Shake up your Wake Up with Breakfast Week

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Scholarships & Bursaries available Ask for details

Rishworth School & Heathfield Independent Co-educational Day and Boarding School Heathfield Junior School, ages 3-11 Rishworth School, ages 11-18 Rishworth, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom HX6 4QA. Tel: +44 (0)1422 822 217 Fax: +44 (0)1422 820 911 E: admissions@rishworth-school.co.uk W: www.rishworth-school.co.uk

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One Yorkshire authority’s school meals will include a breakfast style lunch during the week. And schools in that area which offer a breakfast club already will be providing a different breakfast choice to mark Breakfast Week.

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Flexi & Weekly Boarding available

Increasing numbers of children are arriving at school having not had breakfast, which can impact negatively on their learning and behaviour. Breakfast Clubs have been proven to have a positive impact on punctuality, academic results, concentration, behaviour and attainment. Now, many more schools are looking to introduce a breakfast club.

If your school has a breakfast club, you are thinking of starting one, or just want to encourage your pupils to eat a healthy breakfast before setting out to school, why not sign up for an event during Breakfast Week (25-29 January)?

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‘Outstanding 2011/12’

EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE Should All School Staff Have First Aid Training? Teachers at a school in York did not realise when they went on a first aid training course that they would use their newly learned skills just a few months later. When a 15-year-old boy, Alex, collapsed after suffering a cardiac arrest in a PE class, his teacher Shona Jagger and the school’s matron, Erica Melsom, came to his aid with their skills and a defibrillator. CPR training is only taught in a quarter of schools but the British Heart Foundation says that it would like mandatory CPR training in all schools. Training kits are available free to eligible secondary schools, sixth form schools and colleges. www.bhf.org.uk

Great maths teaching ‘Will Take A Decade’ Experts say that bringing maths teaching in the UK up to worldclass standards will take ten years.

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The Advisory Council on Mathematics Education (ACME) has released a report that says that it will take at least ten years before maths teachers are qualified as well as they should be. They recommend that maths teachers need better training and higher qualifications. This would include primary schools, where many teachers have not studied maths since they took their GCSEs and yet teach maths to their classes. The report’s authors wants all primary teachers to have a maths A level or continue to study maths up to the age of 18 and they want more maths graduates to teach the subject at secondary level. If there are not enough available, then they suggest that graduates with a related subject such as economics could be encouraged to become maths teachers. The report’s author, Robert Barbour says, “We are not at the bottom,” but says that maths teaching should “aspire to level with the best.” The report compared teaching in the UK with that in Shanghai, Singapore, Massachusetts and Germany, where some of the most successful educational systems are based. However the general secretary of the National Union of Teachers, Russell Hobby, says that schools should be recruiting now and that ten years is too long to wait. “The children in the system today won’t see the benefits before they leave school. The effectiveness of recruitment needs to be addressed immediately. For the teachers there in the system today, it’s vital that they have access to proper professional development to increase their experience,” he says. The Department for Education has removed caps on funding to ensure that teacher trainees who have at least a 2:2 degree can earn £25,000 and the Department has pledged up to £67 million to increase the maths ability of 15,000 teachers currently working in schools. It will also recruit an additional 2,500 maths and physics specialists in this Parliament. For more information on the report go to www.acme-uk.org.

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CLUBS & CLASSES Art Starz Art club for toddlers Perfect for 2-4 year olds!

in the martial arts and establish himself amongst the world’s elite practitioners.

Art Starz is a creative and fun art club for toddlers to learn new skills, build confidence, use fine-motor skills and improve levels of concentration in a fun environment. Founder, Jane Middleton, says, ”Children will be gluing, painting and making as well as singing a song or listening to a story. You just need to take your wonderful masterpiece home with you and I tidy all the mess your little ones will create!” Monday classes Cliffe House, Shepley, 10-10.45am with a free play in the adventure play ground. Friday classes Leapfrogs, Skelmanthorpe, 10-10.45am & 11.15am-12 noon with free stay and play. £5 per child, £2.50 for siblings, £16 for 4 block booked classes. Booking essential. Jane runs art parties too for children aged 4-13. www.artstarz.co.uk, www.facebook.com/janemiddletonart, 07866 733162

Huddersfield children will be some of the first in the UK to get stuck in to a new self-defence programme Huddersfield children as young as five will be among the first in the country to take part in a new self-defence programme which has won the national support of the Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA). And Colne Valley Black Belt Academy in Linthwaite, Huddersfield has become the locally approved partner of MANTIS, the company which has devised The Children’s Protector in partnership with the Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA), hosted by the National Children’s Bureau (NCB). The Children’s Protector is a series of fully interactive DVDs teaching all aspects of children’s safety via carefully selected martial arts academies and consoles such as Xbox and PlayStation. Bob Sykes, Senior Instructor at Colne Valley Black Belt Academy, says, “When we were approached by MANTIS about The Children’s Protector, we were immediately impressed. This is not a martial art but an effective, easy to learn self-defence system for children. It’s something with the potential to make a real difference in the battle against bullying and child abduction. In the past year, child abductions in the UK have increased by 12 per cent, while 45,000 children spoke to Childline about bullying. The world can, undoubtedly, be a less than innocent place for our children. It’s time we offered our children some practical help and The Children’s Protector can do that. The programme takes techniques from martial arts and adapts them specifically for young children to be able to apply at the beginning of an assault by someone twice their height and twice their weight.”

Bob adds, “We are offering The Children’s Protector as an eight week course to children aged between five and 16, in the Huddersfield area. Our qualified, experienced instructors will ensure the youngsters practice and perfect the techniques in a real-life environment.” Whilst the interactive DVD, which can be played on Xbox and PlayStation, can be studied at home by children with their parents, it is the practical teaching in a professional setting by qualified instructors which is the preferred teaching option. Simon Brooker, founder of MANTIS (an acronym for Manage Any Nasty Trouble in Society), says, “We are looking to partner with the very best martial arts academies across the country and we are delighted to be working with Colne Valley Black Belt Academy. The academy has a very impressive track record and we have total confidence it can play a vital part in the battle to make life safer for children.” Lauren Seager-Smith, National Coordinator, Anti-Bullying Alliance, says, ‘We want all of our children to live happy, fulfilled lives without fear of bullying. The Children’s Protector is a powerful tool to empower children in the face of a physical attack. All of us, whether children or adults, can benefit from learning these simple techniques.” Further information on The Children’s Protector programme at Colne Valley Black Belt Academy can be obtained on 01484 844386 or visit www.cvbba.co.uk .

New term of creative classes from the Star Tree Studio Regular weekly arts and crafts are classes held at the purpose built Studio and are booking now. Spaces are limited so book now, don’t miss out! Monday 10am Art Stars – 18 months to 4yrs Wednesday 10am & 1.30pm Art Stars – 18 months to 4yrs Thursday 10am Baby Messy Play – 6 months to just walking Friday 10am Art Stars – 18 months to 4yrs Monthly Art Stars class at the Star Tree Studio! Join the new monthly Art Stars session for ages 18 months to 6 years, specifically for customers who can’t attend the regular weekday sessions. The next Saturday sessions will be on 16 January & 13 February at 10.30am – please call to book. The Star Tree Studio, Victoria St, Littleborough OL15 9DB, 07881 822224, hello@thestartreestudio.com, www.thestartreestudio.com.

RSPB – Wildlife Explorer Group If your child would like to help wildlife and learn more about the nature around you, RSPB’s Wildlife Explorer Group (WEX) runs every third Saturday of the month at RSPB Old Moor, in the Dearne Valley, from 10 am to noon. There’s activities, talks, walks, crafts and behind the scenes adventures. Just £1 for RSPB members and £2 for non-members. Contact Delia Clifton on 07926978366 or delia64@talktalk.net. Next meeting Saturday 16 January. rspb.org.uk/oldmoor

Bob has been involved in martial arts for 36 years. In 1988, along with local business entrepreneurs Bob launched what has become the UKs leading martial arts magazine, Martial Arts Illustrated. This gave him access to train with many of the world’s leading authorities

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NEW YEAR NEW YOU

NEW YEAR NEW YOU LOCAL INFORMATION

LOCAL INFORMATION

for parents of 0-12 year olds in

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CREATE YOUR DREAM WORK LIFE BALANCE IN 2016 – Families Pennines is for sale!

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FAMIL IE Parties S PENNIN ES Ideas to Pull-Out en your ow tertain n Monster Little Party s Party Pr AND Local oviders to pull out and Directory keep PLUS Bu What’s mper O n for and Jun e includ May ing Sprin Bank Sc ho g and Fathe ol holidays r’s Day

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If you are serious about a new career to achieve a better work/life balance, and are willing to invest in your future, then call or email and we will send you a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to sign for more information including financials. (Remember – this is a full, established business resale and you will need to tell us about how you will fund the purchase.) Contact Rachel Bentley, editor@familiespennines.co.uk, 07976 621496. leboro

• Families® Magazines trail-blazed the premium, free, parenting magazines model. As leaders in the field, with 25 years’ experience, you will benefit from the history of the Families® success. • Work for yourself but not by yourself – you’ll get the support of other Editors and the Franchisors – Families® Magazines Ltd. • You don’t need prior publishing experience. You are buying an existing business with tried and tested business practices and a complete package of resources to run your business – plus ongoing training is available. • Families® magazines are aimed at ABC1 parents with children 0-12 years. A pretty much recession proof sector, parents always want the best for their children’s future. • Brand trust and loyalty means real results. Our advertisers see the benefits of advertising with us and re-book again and again. • Families Pennines territory is neither too small (not attractive enough to attract advertisers) nor too large (not appealing to local companies). • Parents tell us we are the best, especially for our What’s On listings and ‘things to do’, We provide solid editorial (not advertorial) on parenting, health, childcare and education. We will remain a ‘good read’ and therefore relevant to advertisers. • Great in print AND a great website too. Our website is long established and an invaluable resource for parents, good for potential advertisers and a unique offering in the industry.

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If you are a mum – or a dad – looking for a fun, creative and worthwhile business opportunity within your local community then the Families Pennines franchise could be for you. A hitthe-ground-running opportunity, you could be creating income from when you take over – this is what buying an established business is about.

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HOW TO START A NEW EXERCISE REGIME WHEN YOU’RE A BUSY PARENT By Sally J. Hall It seems as soon as Christmas Day is over, two types of adverts start to appear on the TV: the first are for summer holidays, showing gorgeous people in tiny bikinis and trunks, cavorting across golden sands. The others – yes, you’ve guessed it – weight loss. It’s no surprise that the fitness industry targets us just as we throw ourselves, groaning with overeating, onto the sofa for a few hours of feel-good films. Their research shows that most people start a new exercise regime in January, with a huge boost in gym memberships around that time. It seems there is something motivational in having a whole new year to look ahead to and many of us start of with great new resolutions – even if they fall by the wayside by March. Add to this the complication of being a busy mum or dad, when, for goodness sake, are you going to find the time for a new fitness regime to shift those few pounds you put on over the winter, or to get the baby weight off? Don’t despair, we have a few great ideas.

Preparation is key Before you start any kind of exercise routine, check with your doctor (or midwife if you’re pregnant) that it’s OK. If you’ve recently given birth, wait until after your six week check-up. If you had a C-section or other complications, you might want to wait a while longer. Always start with stretches to warm your muscles and don’t overdo anything. If you start to hurt, it’s your body’s way of telling you to stop. Start with a small, short routine and gradually increase the time you spend and the intensity of your work-out.

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NEW YEAR NEW YOU Let’s swap

WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU?

Chances are your nearest and dearest may also be feeling the belt pinch. So talk through your desires for a little time to yourself to get a little fitter and suggest you swap. They can have the kids while you go to the gym, for a swim, for a long walk in the woods – whichever you feel you like the most. Then swap another day. If you’re single, could you and a friend swap exercise times?

Phew! You’ve made it through Christmas and we’re already into another year. While everyone else may be busy setting personal goals and enthusing about their New Year’s resolutions, do you find yourself stuck at what feels like the crossroads of life?

Do what you like

No time for anything but to get through the daily routine, let alone think about what’s next for you! You could be deciding whether to return to work or you may be facing redundancy, there may be unexpected changes in your family or your personal life, you could simply want to get fit or pursue a life-long dream. So what’s stopping you? Have you really allowed yourself time to think through what’s next for you and how you might go about getting what you really want? The Oasis School of Human Relations in Boston Spa, West Yorkshire, is running a two day workshop ‘Where Do I Go From Here?’ The workshop gives you the time and space to take a step back from your daily life, open up your options and get clear on your next steps.

It may sound obvious but choose an activity you actually enjoy. If you join a spinning class, can’t keep up, end up red in the face and aching all over and dread going back, it’s not the right exercise for you. Try out a few different classes – everything from Aqua Aerobics to Zumba is available these days, in church halls to private gyms – and then pick the one you like the most. If you have joined a gym, you might find it works better to do a different thing each time. Try to include something that gets your heart racing, something stretchy and something that involves weights.

Kids come too Can’t palm the kids off onto a relative? Want to get a few more steps done this week? Take the kids with you. Go to a local park with scooters and bikes and baby in a pushchair and walk around the outside of the park, encouraging the kids to race you. Not only will you all get an oxygen boost, they will sleep really well that night.

This participative workshop, which runs on 9-10 April and costs £150 per person, is suitable for people of all ages. You may be at different stages in your lives but what you will have in common is that your circumstances are changing whether driven by external forces or your own wish to do things differently. If you are looking to make positive changes to your life this year, start now and find out more by contacting Pippa Farrington on 01937 541700, www.oasishumanrelations.org.uk.

READER GIVEAWAY – The Microbiome Solution With New Year a popular time for a detox, take a look at The Microbiome Solution by leading gastroenterologist Dr Robynne Chutkan. Families Pennines has 2 copies to giveaway. Simply send an email with your name and address to editor@ familiespennines.co.uk or enter via our competitions tab at www.familiespennines.co.uk where you will also find full T&Cs. Closes midnight on 28 February 2016.

How about a crèche at a gym, or a fitness class where your buggybound child is a requirement? Cue PJs Health and Fitness Village just off Bradford Road, Cleckheaton – which offers a crèche where members’ and visitors’ children alike are able to take advantage of the unique Ofsted inspected venue – and Buggy4Fitness which meets in outdoor and indoor venues around Calderdale – and little ones enjoy the interaction with the other mums and babies and watching the world pass them by from their buggy. For information visit the providers’ websites: www.pjshealthandfitness.com/creche, www.spfitnesssolutions.co.uk.

Using baby If you are stuck at home quite a lot with a very young baby and don’t yet feel ready for the communal changing rooms, try some exercises at home. There are quite a few post-natal exercise DVDs now that start you off gently and most importantly, know how to support and strengthen your body as it returns to your pre-pregnancy shape. Pop in the DVD, do a few exercises and have your baby on a play mat next to you so that you’re still close. You can even use your baby to strengthen your arms by lifting him or her over and over – and they will love it too!

This easy-to-follow, sciencebased lifestyle plan can be adapted for the whole family and may help sufferers of IBS, Crohns and other gut ailments, as well as people with skin conditions such as acne or rosacea. It may also aid weight loss, boost energy and promote overall wellbeing. Dr Chutkan offers instructions on how to make natural beauty products, talks about which probiotics and prebiotics you might take, and information on little known affects of antibiotics.

The time when your baby naps can be great for a quick burst – one of the hottest new fitness trends right now. Do push-ups against the wall or on your knees, use small weights to tighten arms (tins of beans work just as well), do squats and a few yoga poses for flexibility and strength in your core.

(It’s always important to check out with a health professional before starting out on any diet, health or get fit routine and especially so if you suspect you have a medical condition. The information in the book is not endorsed by Families Pennines or its associates.)

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WHAT’S ON SHUTTERSTOCK

lovely children’s menu – and they run special events too. On 16-17 February there will be a fairandfunky workshop making a planter or bird feeder from recycled materials, so take the kids and get crafty. Or how about a live show – with fantastic productions on offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The LBT, Huddersfield (www.thelbt.org) has a full programme of family theatre in 2016 including the classic Around the World in 80 days from 15 to 16 February. The power and drama of a symphony orchestra at full tilt is an unforgettable experience for all the family and the best music is available on our doorstep. The Orchestra of Opera North’s Kirklees Concert season (www.kirkleestownhalls.co.uk) continues into 2016, and with tickets at just £1 for children aged 13 and under and £4 for 14-26 year-olds (it’s better value to take the kids than pay a babysitter), why not give it a go?

BRAVE THE GREAT OUTDOORS Enjoy a day out in the fresh air at RSPB Old Moor (www.rspb.org.uk/ oldmoor) – a sheltered nature reserve in the Dearne Valley and only a short drive from our area. There’s plenty to do and see all through to spring including the school holidays – and a lovely shop and café too.

What to do with your kids when the weather is less than spring-like! The first few months of the year offer a few precious hours of daylight and often these are dismal ones during January and February. So how do you keep your children entertained when it’s wet, cold or both? Here’s some ideas from Families Pennines… GO GRAB A GAME Before you throw your hands up in horror, I don’t mean an electronic one…bring out the board games (e.g. Monopoly, Ludo) or a pack of cards (Go Fish, Snap). How about a few rounds of Charades (a.k.a. Give Us a Clue for those of a certain age…)? Not only do family games give a lot of fun they are educational too helping with reading, counting and using language. And make sure you join in too!

Half-term at RSPB Old Moor starts w/c 8 February with daily activities from 10am to 3pm. Then w/c 15 February the Reserve will offer self-guided activities such as pond dipping, activity backpacks and trails. All of the events are free, but a reserve entry fee applies except Friday (also see free entry voucher on page 4).

LET IT SNOW… Obviously there are lots of hills in the Pennines, so when it snows, choose an age appropriate slope (get the landowner’s permission if needed) and get sledging! Be aware that little legs may appreciate a tow and get everyone dressed up snugly. Watch for hazards like hidden water, rocks and trees or other obstacles and snow hurts when you land on it at speed. If the snow fails to settle, check out indoor slopes at Chill Factore (www.chillfactore.com) close to Manchester or Xscape (www.xscape. co.uk/yorkshire) in Castleford both handy for the motorway network.

GIVE YOUR FAMILY DREAM DAYS OUT ALL YEAR! For the ultimate in days out whatever the weather then why not treat the family to a Merlin Annual Pass (www. merlinannualpass.co.uk) perfect for wet (or dry) weekends and holidays alike.

Stuck for inspiration? The Star Tree Studio (www.thestartreestudio. com) stocks educational games and craft activities in their Littleborough shop and also available online.

HEAD INDOORS We are blessed with museums, theatres, attractions and soft play areas across our area and within easy motorway driving. Plus clubs and classes which provide planned, weekly activities to keep the kids occupied (and we have some great suggestions in our Clubs and Classes section). With Eureka! The National Children’s Museum (www.eureka.org.uk) in the heart of Halifax, a visit is a must. The museum is running special events with Destination Space during half-term and weekends too, and they have award winning galleries indoors with fun things to do in the grounds for a bit of fresh air. Totties Garden Centre and the Olive Tree Bistro (www. tottiesgardencentre. co.uk) is open for shopping and eating out – including a

Providing 12 months of fun at 32 magical worlds (11 in the North plus more in the South and the Midlands – including Alton Towers) you can make amazing savings in the Merlin New Year sale. The pass includes admission to all UK Merlin attractions, such as The Blackpool Tower and SEA LIFE Blackpool and Scarborough, plus exclusive pass holder perks, onsite discounts and short break offers. Prices start from just £99 per person so why not make this year truly unforgettable – buy a Merlin Annual Pass in the sale and make your days out full of excitement, adventure and fun! Get your Annual Pass at this great discount at any of the Merlin attractions (eg Blackpool) or online at www.merlinannualpass.co.uk. Sale ends 15 February 2016. T&Cs apply.

Whatever the weather, take a look at our What’s On pages in print and online for more fun places to go, things to do and events. www.familiespennines.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON SEE THE PINK LISTINGS FOR...

12 March

31 January

JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING

THE OWL AND THE PUSSYCAT’S TREASURY OF NONSENSE

Hipperholme Grammar Junior School, 45 Wakefield Road, Lightcliffe, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX3 8AQ 01422 201330 www.hgsf.org.uk 10am-12noon

17 March SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN EVENING Hipperholme Grammar Senior School, Bramley Lane, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX3 8JE 01422 202256 www.hgsf.org.uk 6.30pm

THEATRE AND SHOWS 9-16 January

SCHOOL OPEN EVENTS 9 January WINTER WONDERLAND Oldham Hume Grammar School, Chamber Rd, Oldham, Lancs, OL8 4BX 0161 624 4497 www.ohgs.co.uk A chance to visit the Early Years and have fun at the Winter Wonderland at Oldham Hulme Grammar School. 10-11am

12 January JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN EVENING Bradford Grammar School, Keighley Road, Bradford, West Yorks, BD9 4JP 01274 542492 www.bradfordgrammar.com 6pm

13 January OLDHAM HULME GRAMMAR SCHOOL – JANUARY ENTRANCE EXAM FOR YEAR 7 Oldham Hulme Grammar School, Chamber Rd, Oldham, Lancs, OL8 4BX 0161 624 4497 www.ohgs.co.uk The Oldham Hulme Grammar School entrance exam for 2016 Year 7s is on Wednesday 13 January 8.45am to 3.30pm

13 January SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Bradford Grammar School, Keighley Road, Bradford, West Yorks, BD9 4JP 01274 542492 www.bradfordgrammar.com 9.15am

8 March SIXTH FORM TASTER MORNING Bradford Grammar School, Keighley Road, Bradford, West Yorks, BD9 4JP 01274 542492 www.bradfordgrammar.com 8.45am

SLEEPING BEAUTY The Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP 01484 430528 www.thelbt.org/Sleeping-Beauty Panto performances by Huddersfield Light Opera Company

16 January THUMBELINA The Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP 01484 430528 www.thelbt.org/Thumbelina Syngenta Cellar, 11am & 2pm. Tickets: £7 Norwich Puppet Theatre. Age recommendation: 2-7 years

20-21 January PEPPA PIG’S SURPRISE The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 1BP 01422 351158 www.calderdale.gov.uk/victoria 20 January, 1pm & 4pm, 21 January, 10am & 1pm

26-27 January STRICTLY COME DANCING – THE LIVE TOUR 2016 Sheffield Arena, Broughton Ln, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S9 2DF www.gigantic.com

28 January ROYAL NORTHERN SINFONIA – HAYDN, MOZART, STRAVINSKY Dewsbury Town Hall, Town Hall Way, Dewsbury, WF12 8DG 01484 223 200 kirkleestownhalls.co.uk Sparkling selections from Stravinsky and Mozart climax with Haydn’s famous Farewell Symphony, which ends with each musician snuffing out the candle on their music stand and leaving until there are only two violins left playing. £1 for accompanied children 13 & under, £4 for 14-26 year-olds.7.30pm

Square Chapel Centre for the Arts, 10 Square Road, Halifax, West Yorks, HX1 1QG 01422 353073 www.squarechapel.co.uk/whats-on Ages 5 upwards

1-2 February

16 February SID’S SHOW Harrogate Theatre, Oxford Street, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 1QF 01423 502 116 www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk/whats-on Sid from Cbeebies live! 3+

17 February THE SNOW BEAR

St George’s Hall, Bridge Street, Bradford, BD1 1JT www.bradford-theatres.co.uk Direct from a smash-hit West End and international tour

Square Chapel Centre for the Arts, 10 Square Road, Halifax, West Yorks, HX1 1QG 01422 353073 www.squarechapel.co.uk/whats-on By Hearthside Tales Wed 17 Feb, 2.30pm Approx Running Time: 55min (no interval) Age: 4+

14 February

19 February

ORCHESTRA OF OPERA NORTH – CLASSIC FM CLASSIC ROMANCE

BRENDAN COLE– A NIGHT TO REMEMBER

WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT

Huddersfield Town Hall, Ramsden Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2TA 01484 223 200 kirkleestownhalls.co.uk Celebrating the thrill of love with pieces by Tchaikovsky, Elgar, Richard Rodgers and others. There’s something for everyone in this amorous assortment – and with children’s ticket prices undercutting the cost of a babysitter, why not bring the whole family? £1 for accompanied children 13 & under, £4 for 14-26 year-olds. 3pm

15 February CECIL’S STARLIGHT SAFARI Square Chapel Centre for the Arts, 10 Square Road, Halifax, West Yorks, HX1 1QG 01422 353073 www.squarechapel.co.uk/whats-on By The Musical Balloon Band, 2.30pm Approx Running Time: 50mins (no interval) Age: 3+

15-16 February AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS The Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP 01484 430528 www.thelbt.org/Around-World-80Days-1 Join Phileas Fogg and his faithful servant Passepartout in their audacious plan to navigate the globe in just 80 days. With only a bag full of money, a pocket watch and a wager to win, Fogg sets out on the most celebrated literary journey of all time. Based on Jules Verne’s famous novel and combining clowning, live music, and storytelling Around the World in 80 Days takes you on a high-speed, madcap, transcontinental race against the clock. One policeman, two comrades, three cab rides, four continents, five trains, six ships and just 80 days to get back home! Main Stage, 2.15pm & 7pm. 6yrs +

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The Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 1BP 01422 351158 www.calderdale.gov.uk/victoria Join the star of Strictly Come Dancing for a special evening, 7.30pm

19 February FANTASTIC MR. FOX Square Chapel Centre for the Arts, 10 Square Road, Halifax, West Yorks, HX1 1QG 01422 353073 www.squarechapel.co.uk/whats-on Showing of the 2009 film with a picnic! 11am Approx Running Time: 87mins, Age: PG

21 February TADPOLES Square Chapel Centre for the Arts, 10 Square Road, Halifax, West Yorks, HX1 1QG 01422 353073 www.squarechapel.co.uk/whats-on M6 Theatre Company. Rival Superheroes learn to work together. 2.30pm Approx Running Time: 50mins (no interval) Age: 5+

25 February SING-A-LONG-A GREASE St George’s Hall, Bridge Street, Bradford, BD1 1JT www.bradford-theatres.co.uk An evening where you are the stars and GREASE is the word!

4 March BBC PHILHARMONIC – SCHUBERT, STRAUSS AND BRAHMS Huddersfield Town Hall, Ramsden Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2TA 01484 223 200 kirkleestownhalls.co.uk BBC Philharmonic closes the Kirklees concert season with a thrilling journey through the works of three generations of AustroGerman geniuses, Schubert, Strauss and Brahms. £1 for accompanied children 13 & under, £4 for 14-26 year-olds.7.30pm

WHAT’S ON JANUARY AND FEBRUARY EVENTS 16 January-13 March DESTINATION SPACE Eureka! Discovery Road, Halifax, HX1 2NE 01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk Find out what it is like in space! Weekends from 16 January to 13 March and February Half Term

16 January VALENTINE FAMILY LEARNING CRAFT CLASS Kirklees College Huddersfield Centre, Waterfront Quarter, Manchester Road, Huddersfield, HD1 3LD 01484 437000 store.kirkleescollege.ac.uk Family learning class. Sign up with a child and make a Valentine themed gift for the special people in your life

24 January FAMILY CEILIDH FOR BURNS NIGHT Square Chapel Centre for the Arts, 10 Square Road, Halifax, West Yorks, HX1 1QG 01422 353073 www.squarechapel.co.uk/whats-on 5pm

30 January & 27 February BISTRO NIGHTS: THE OLIVE TREE BISTRO AT TOTTIES

FLICKR Nicu Buculei

Totties Garden Centre and the Olive Tree Bistro Cafe, Downshutts Lane, Holmfirth, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD9 1AU 01484 683363 www.tottiesgardencentre.co.uk On the last Saturdays of the month, The Olive Tree becomes a full table service restaurant for the evening. All dishes are fresh, handmade and cooked to order. Please book in advance. 7pm, tickets £26.95

26-28 February

12 February

WINTER STEAM GALA

CHARITY PAMPER MORNING FOR PHOENIX AID – GET READY FOR VALENTINE’S!

Keighley and Worth Valley Railway (KWVR), Bradford Rd, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 5JA 01535 645214 www.kwvr.co.uk

HALF-TERM (please check your own school’s holiday dates as they may differ)

6-14 February VICTORIAN BUTLER SCHOOL Brodsworth Hall, Brodsworth, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN5 7XJ 01302 722598 www.english-heritage.org.uk Learn about the etiquette of a country house, from dressing a table to folding a napkin. But make sure you pay attention, as the master of the house won’t keep sloppy butlers around for long! 11am-5pm. Normal admission + £1 per child

6-21 February DESTINATION SPACE Eureka! Discovery Road, Halifax, HX1 2NE 01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk Reach for the stars this half-term. As well as loads of space science experiments, you’ll be able to meet the Museum’s very own astronaut in a Sokol space suit just like the one UK astronaut Tim Peake is wearing on his journey into space!

FEBRUARY HALF-TERM Nostell Priory (NT), Doncaster Road, Nostell, Wakefield, W Yorks, WF4 1QE 01924 863892 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events Join in a different activity at Nostell every week day in February halfterm. 11am-3pm

HALF-TERM AT THE RESERVE

Please be aware that things change so check details and suitability for your family with the provider before setting out as Families Pennines cannot be held responsible for the events we list.

15-21 February JORVIK VIKING FESTIVAL Jorvik, Coppergate, York, YO1 9WT 01904 615505 jorvik-viking-centre.co.uk A week of Viking celebrations in York

16-17 February ‘FAIRANDFUNKY’ WORKSHOPS Totties Garden Centre and the Olive Tree Bistro Cafe, Downshutts Lane, Holmfirth, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD9 1AU 01484 683363 www.tottiesgardencentre.co.uk Make a spring planter or bird feeder from recycled bits & pieces from the garden 9.30am – 11.30am, £3.50 per child – no need to book

17 February

8-12 February

8-19 February

Families Pennines listings can also be found on our fully searchable online What’s On, and we update regularly, so make sure you bookmark www.familiespennines.co.uk.

Totties Garden Centre and the Olive Tree Bistro Cafe, Downshutts Lane, Holmfirth, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD9 1AU 01484 683363 www.tottiesgardencentre.co.uk Get your nails done ready for Valentine’s & it’s only £5, with all money going to Phoenix Aid. Also on offer an Indian head massage, Bowen technique, eyebrow reshape plus makeup from Younique & aloe health & beauty products. 9.30am until 11.30am

RSPB Old Moor, Old Moor Ln, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S73 0YF 01226 751593 rspb.org.uk/oldmoor Wk 1: Monday 8 Feb – self led pond dipping, backpacks and crafts Tuesday 9 Feb –Tuesday Tales – sessions throughout the day Wednesday 10 Feb – Wild Wednesday – guided pond dipping Thursday 11 Feb – Thinkbomb Friday 12 Feb – Free Friday – reserve entry fee is waived. Self-led pond dipping, backpacks and crafts. Wk 2: w/c 15th February – self guided activities: pond dipping, activity backpacks and trails. All activities unless otherwise stated are 10 am to 3pm. Reserve entry fee applies to all except Friday – see page 4 for free entry voucher

OAKWELL IN THE BRONZE AGE Oakwell Hall, Nutter Lane, Birstall, Batley, West Yorkshire, WF17 9LG 0844 686 1176 www.friendsofoakwellhall.org.uk/ events Step back 4,000 years with children’s activities in and around the Visitor Centre barn. Free. 10am-12 noon & 1pm-3pm

16-19 February SPARKS HALF TERM FUN Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX3 6HG 01422 352334 museums.calderdale.gov.uk/whatson Tuesday 16 February – Creating your own time machine: Travel back in time to meet interesting historical characters and create your own time machine. Wednesday 17 February – Create your own Science Fiction character Thursday 18 February – Making a time travel mobile: Play some time travelling games and make a time travel mobile. Friday 19 February – Make your own alien: Hear a story about strange aliens and make your own alien 11am to 12pm, 1pm to 2pm & 2pm to 3pm, £3.50 per child or £2.50 for Passport to Leisure

www.familiespennines.co.uk

18 February WRITTEN IN THE STARS Tolson Museum, Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield Road, Moldgreen, Huddersfield, HD5 8DJ 01484 223240 www.kirklees.gov.uk/events Crafts and activities inspired by the Signs of the Zodiac and their starry constellations. 12 noon-3pm, £1 per child

18 February ZOOLAB EXPERIENCE Dewsbury Museum, Crow Nest Park, Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, WF13 2SA 01924 325100 www.kirklees.gov.uk/events Meet exotic animals for a hands-on learning experience. Stroke a snake and tickle a scorpion. 12 noon-1pm, £5, booking essential

MOTHER’S DAY 28 February PRE MOTHERS DAY CRAFT FAIR Cedar Court Wakefield, Denby Dale Rd, Calder Grove, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF4 3QZ 01924 276310 www.cedarcourt hotels.co.uk/cedar-court/wakefield If you are wanting that special gift that is a little bit different, here’s an indoor event with stalls selling all Handmade gifts

5 March MOTHER’S DAY MAKE AN EGYPTIAN THEMED ‘MUMMY’S DAY’ CARD Bagshaw Museum, Wilton Park, Batley, WF17 0AS 01924 326155 www.kirklees.gov.uk/events Mother’s Day Make an Egyptian themed ‘Mummy’s Day’ card for your Mum! Free, suitable for 5-12 years. No booking required 12 noon–4pm

6 March MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH AND LUNCH Totties Garden Centre and the Olive Tree Bistro Cafe, Downshutts Lane, Holmfirth, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD9 1AU 01484 683363 www.tottiesgardencentre.co.uk Mother’s Day is Sunday 6 March so treat your mum to brunch at 10am or lunch from 12pm – 3.30pm. Booking essential. Totties is also a great place to buy lovely gifts & cards too!

6 March MOTHER’S DAY AFTERNOON TEA Tolson Museum, Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield Road, Moldgreen, Huddersfield, HD5 8DJ 01484 223240 www.kirklees.gov.uk/events Spoil the special ladies in your life with afternoon tea in the vintage refreshment rooms. Pre booking by 3 March essential. 12 noon – 3pm, £5