Welcome Welcome to the Winter Issue of The Family Directory. Winter is my favourite season; I just love this season for hats, scarves and walks on the beach, then back home to sit next to the warm fire and a hot chocolate. Many of us will be watching our children at their school Christmas show which makes it an exciting time up to Christmas. But to help you over the Christmas holidays we have Top Things To Do This Winter see page 22. We had an overwhelming response to our Front Cover Star for the winter issue. So thank you for all the lovely photos parents. Mandy from The Wight Studio had a great morning shoot with our front cover stars Angus and Harris. So if you would like your child or children to be the front cover star of the spring directory please do send your photos to polly@thefamilydirectory.co.uk with all your details or see page 31. Don’t miss our great competition on page 30, you could win a family ticket for Santa Special with Isle of Wight Steam Railway. Soak up the festive atmosphere at Havenstreet Station with a visit to Santa. Stroll through the sparkling Winter Wonderland before meeting Santa then settle back and relax with a cosy ride on the steam train through the Island’s winter country side.
Make Christmas 2011 an extra bit special for your child or loved one with a letter from Santa. See inside back cover for Snowy Letter from Santa. Our website www.thefamilydirectory.co.uk is growing and changing all the time you will find an online calendar of things to do, the news page is updated every week. Also join us on Facebook. Find us at The Family Directory and become a fan or find us on Twitter. We love hearing your news and ideas. Whenever you use the directory, please mention you saw the advert in The Family Directory.
It’s so easy to advertise with The Family Directory Please call or email for a media pack. If you don’t tell families about your school, club, group or services they will not know about you. If you want more business then tell parents what you have to offer. Our advertising costs, starting for as little as £20, really does offer you value for money. Our directories are produced 3 times a year; winter, spring and summer and are distributed island wide.
Have a warm winter and see you in the spring.
Take care Polly 01983 872191 email: polly@thefamilydirectory.co.uk www.thefamilydirectory.co.uk
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Content
News and Updates The Owl & Monkey Haven The Owl & Monkey Haven is open all year round and we are looking forward to celebrating our second winter. We will be offering Island residents various promotions throughout the following months and we really hope you will be able to pop along and join in the fun and festivities.
Welcome
1
News and Updates
2
Activities
4
Family Cooking
10
Education
11
The Haven will be receiving a Christmas makeover with lights and decorations and children can enjoy the festivities with the opportunity to visit Santa’s grotto on Sundays the 4th, 11th and 18th of December. Our unique gift shop offers quirky, affordable gifts and our adoption packs and season passes make perfect presents for all animal lovers. Spend over £25 in our gift shop this December and receive free entry into the Haven!
Places to Visit and Eat
20
What’s On this Winter
22
Parties
27
Competition
30
Our monkeys absolutely love their fruit and veg, be it bananas, watermelons, broccoli or grapes! But the recent cold weather has slowed down the growth of our home-grown crops and left us reliant on supermarket produce. So if you’ve got any spare fruit and veg at home, bring it into the Owl & Monkey Haven and receive £5 admission through November.
Bumbs and Babies
31
Services
33
Photography
36
Island Families
39
Thanks to everyone who has supported us with our Martin & Lulu Appeal. All your donations so far are bringing Martin one step closer to meeting the primate of his dreams! For more information on news, offers and future events at the Haven, please visit our website: www.owlandmonkeyhaven.co.uk
Bodster Equine Assisted Learning Centre Bodster Equine Assisted Learning Centre is a new business based at Aldermoor farm, Upton Road, Ryde. There is no riding involved but learners have experiences with horses, such as grooming, leading and taking part in team building exercises along with exercises such as choosing a horse to say hello to which allows learners to think about how they make choices. Bodster has received funding from Aiming High to offer subsidised courses as a short break for youngsters with complex needs. Bodster has also received funding from the Community Adult Learning to offer courses for learners 19+ with poor literacy and numeracy to achieve an NOCN qualification. For more details and to join a session please contact Jo Boddington on joandgi@googlemail.com
What’s on this winter, page 22
The Gillian Cartwright School Show, “DANCE MIX” Medina Theatre, NEWPORT.
Saturday, November 26th at 7.00 pm - Sunday 27th at 2.30 and 7.00 pm. Tickets available: Box Office: 527020. Featuring excerpts from Swan Lake, The Wizard of Oz and Grease. The School triumphed this summer, with 30 dancers reaching the finals of the All England Dance Competition in London. Classes taught by highly qualified RAD and ISTD teachers, with exam results higher than national average. Many ex pupils are now dancing in musical theatre, ballet companies and appear on TV. Classes held Monday to Saturday for children 3 years to professional level in Ballet, Modern and Tap. New pupils most welcome. NEW: Tiny Tots classes for 3 - 4 year olds: Saturdays, 11 - 11.40 a.m. at Gillian Cartwright Studios, Grange Road, Shanklin. Phone Gillian on 01983 730401 for all class and fee details (24-hour answerphone). Visit; www.gilliancartwrightschoolofdance.co.uk or see us on facebook
The Earl Mountbatten Hospice 2012 Calendar
AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust
The Earl Mountbatten Hospice is the only Hospice on the Island caring for over 1300 patients a year. In order to give this special care to our patients we have to raise over £2 million each year. We are continually fundraising and one way is by selling a Hospice Isle of Wight Calendar.
AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust Program manager Paul Topping has been successfully running his soccer schools and camps on the Island for the past year. In this time he and his group of qualified coaches have, and continue to work with hundreds of Island children, improving football skills and increasing enjoyment of the game. With sessions running Island wide on every day of the week Paul offers a wide range of opportunities for children to get involved.
The Isle of Wight Photographic Calendar 2012 is now available, with stunning Island views taken by acclaimed local photographer Chris Boynton. Chris has worked with the Hospice for many years raising thousands of pounds for our patient care by producing a yearly calendar and donations from the sale of his Photo cards. This year’s calendar has been redesigned for 2012 with larger photos and a lot more writing space. These beautiful calendars are priced at just £4.50 each and are available at many retail outlets across the Island including the Hospice Charity Shops in Newport, Cowes, Wootton, Ryde, Freshwater and Ventnor and the Hospice fundraising office on 528989.
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If your son or daughter would like to be a part of this fun football community then please contact Paul on 07514 801968, email paul. topping@afcb-iow.co.uk or visit www.afcb-iow.co.uk for further info While every effort and care has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions it may contain. The Family Directory does not imply an endorsement of the service of product. The Data Protection Act requires that we inform you that your company or service is listed in this Directory, it is on our computer. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form. or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, or stored in any retrieval system, without prior written permission of the publisher. Copyright C The Rainbow Directory and The Family Directory
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Activities
Activities Baby Signing
Street Dance
TinyTalk Emily 07900 803521 01983 612577 Baby signing classes from newborn to 2 years - allows your baby to express themselves long before they can talk! We sing nursery rhymes and learn everyday baby signs (BSL), followed by play time with drinks and biscuits! Classes are fun and relaxed. For your FREE Trial Class please call or email emilyp@tinytalk.co.uk
Dance, Drama and Music Caterpillar Music (See ad page 8)
Football AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust (See ad page 7) Football program is run by qualified coaches and is for boys and girls.
01983 617778
Dance Vibez Ann Abe 01983 403175 Classes for toddlers and up-wards (adults and professional dancers) ballet, tap, free style, hip hop, performing arts, Melody Bear classes, Parent and toddler classes, exams, show work (including west end shows and charity work ) Plenty of fun for all ages and an exciting way to stay fit and healthy. Ann Abe member of United Kingdom Alliance. Professional dancer and teacher. Footsteps Dance Studio 01983 865264 01983 407316 Classes in ballet, tap, freestyle & street dance for exams, shows or just for fun. Three years old to professional level and adult classes. Teachers qualified with International Dance Teachers Association. Also qualified nursery nurses. Classes in Lake and Bembridge. Gillian Cartwright School of Dance 01983 730401 Classes in Ballet, Modern, Tap, Jazz and Aerobics for 3 years to adult. Exams, Festivals and SHOW WORK. Studios in Shanklin and Lake. Qualified teachers of the R.A.D. - I.S.T.D. and B.T.D.A. The Islands most award winning dance school. Magic Movers www.magicmovers.co.uk 01983 864416 Move, imagine, laugh and learn at our movement to music sessions for 2-5 year olds with an adult companion. Discover original music you won’t find anywhere else! Cost from just £2.00 per family. Call Kay to find your nearest class or visit www.magicmovers.co.uk PJ’s Theatre School www.pjstheatreschool.co.uk 01983 611791 Not just a dance school or just for performance - Come and learn the lot ! Singing, Dance & Drama, with awards & examinations, local & West End Performances – learn with working Professionals. New classes include Hip Hop & Cheerleading in Ryde, Melody Movement Parent & Toddler Dance. The Island Dance and Theatre Company (See ad page 7) 01983 863615 Dance and Theatre School welcomes you to join us for many various classes available for girls and boys from 2½ Years to Adults. Qualified teacher of 30 years, and member of the I.D.T.A , R.A.D and N.A.T.D. Classes only £2.00 per child/adult. Studios in BRADING and GODSHILL. www.theislanddance.co.uk Rhythm Time (See ad page 6)
07950 501763
Zumbatomic – Kids get fit (See ad page 7)
07810 544577
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Learn To Street Dance 01983 531306 Tutoring and classes in street dance. Call community dance artist Lee or for more information go to www.learntostreetdance.co.uk
07514 801968
Gym Classes Little Monkeys Gym 01983 528352 Physical fun for crawlers to 4 years. Fun filled 45 minute classes which include soft play, climbing equipment, tunnels, slides, ball pool, trampoline, musical movement and lots more! Classes held in Newport. Email littlemonkeysgym@hotmail.co.uk or Facebook page ‘ little monkeys gym Isle of Wight’
Horse Riding Hill Farm Riding School, Freshwater. 07748 253899 01983 752502 Family run stables established 46 years, all ages and abilities catered for - lessons, hacking, jumping, gymkhanas, own pony days, beach rides, parties and all aspects of pony care. Enclosed rubber school, badges and tests optional, safety paramount. Bodster Equine Assisted Learning Centre 001983 854858 07790 305108 We help develop self confidence through experiences with horses on the ground contact Mrs Jo Boddington or email joandgi@googlemail.com (See page 2)
Swimming Jane McGregor Swimming Academy (See ad page 6) Swimming classes for all ages and abilities.
01983 563139
Pamela’s Swimming School - Cowes Reputable, ASA accredited lessons from 2.5 years to adult. Small class sizes.
01983 294014
Water Babies (See ad page 8) Swimming lessons for babies and toddlers. www.waterbabies.co.uk
01983 717005
Yoga, Tai Chi & Karate lsland Yoga and Tai Chi www.islandyogaandtaichi.co.uk 07738716244 01983 840994 Classes for all abilities in Yoga, Tai Chi, Meditation, Qigong, Prenatal Yoga, Mum and Baby Yoga. The Isle of Wight Karate and Self Defence Club (See ad page 7)
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Activities
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Activites
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Activities
Activites The Isle of Wight Karate and Self Defence Club
The Isle of Wight Karate and Self Defence Club offers a wide range of classes for boys and girls. The beginner classes are designed to teach children simple discipline and karate skills. The weekly junior beginner classes (from 6 years old) are held every Tuesday 6-7pm and Saturday 10-11am or (from 13 years old) every Tuesday 7-8pm and Thursday 8-9pm at the Fitness Factory in Newport. Alternatively, we also run classes on a Wednesday at the West Wight Sports Centre in Freshwater between 7-8pm in the evening. In order for beginners to try the classes the club offers the first session for FREE. Please email Mark Sensei@onwight.net for a free trail voucher or for more details, please visit the website www.isleofwightkarate.co.uk. Join the club on Facebook and please don’t forget to tell your friends and family www.facebook.com/IsleofWightKarate. (See ad page 7)
Zumbatomic - Kids get fit Zumbatomic - Kids get fit, Rock out and have a blast. Zumbatomic® classes are high-energy fitness-parties that offer real results. Packed with specially choreographed routines and the latest music, like hip-hop, reggaeton and cumbia. Zumbatomic classes increase focus and self- confidence, boost metabolism and improve coordination. More than just a great reason to head to the gym, Zumbatomic classes make getting fit a fun family experience too. Join Tiffany to have a funfilled half hour class at Sandown Youth centre (youth club) either Mondays 3.30 - 4pm or 4 - 4.30pm Adult zumba classes and ‘mens only’ classes available. Zumbatomic parties can also arranged. (See ad page 7)
Water Babies Water Babies who have been awarded 5 national awards for their teaching and lessons are delighted that more and more babies on the Isle of Wight are swimming in the Water Babies programme. Not only are our Instructors the most highly trained swimming teachers, they are also the epitome of calm and know how to have fun in the water. Jo Hobbs the one and only brilliant Isle of Wight Water Babies Instructor qualified in September and has completed over 150 hours of training and assessments and just loves her job. Jo Says “I was that impressed with the lessons that I have taken both my children Imogen and Joshua to the mainland for their Water Babies lessons for the last 4 years. I am now extremely excited to have become the first Isle of Wight Water Babies instructor” With over 50 Water Babies already learning to swim in Cowes and Freshwater Jo is over the moon to be able to, in true Water Babies style “teach all of the parents to teach their babies to swim”. (See ad page 8)
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Education
Family Cooking From all of us here atsarahshouse.com Happy Baking!
Speech & Language
Finn’s Cow Pie
Independent Speech & Language Therapist 01983 618757 Specialist Speech & Language therapist with over 20 years experience offering assessments, and therapy to children aged 3 -18 years with a range of difficulties. Therapy starting from as little as £10. www.speech-train.co.uk
l l l l
1.5 lbs/700g Chuck/lean steak cut into 2 cm cubes 1 large onion 1.5 tbsp plain flour Half tsp Worcester sauce
l l l
1 tsp marmite 15 fl oz/425ml beef stock Salt & black pepper to taste
Tuition & Music Tuition Kumon English and Maths www.kumon.co.uk 01983 853643 Complete after school English and mathematics programmes for children 4-14 of all abilities. Andrew Pellow, F.G.M.S., F.A.S.C., Hon.F.N.C.M. 01983 612796 N.E.Wight. Experienced Piano Teacher: Theory: Basic Jazz: Singing: Instrumental Accompaniment. Graded Examinations or Leisure. All ages and abilities.
Independent School ADULT SUPERVISION IS REQUIRED FOR THIS RECIPE
1. Gently fry the onion until golden brown and then add the cubes of steak and fry until nicely browned.
2. Add the flour and stir well. Add the Worcester sauce, marmite & pepper.
3. Gradually add the beef stock and bring up to simmering point. Just simmer for 2/3 hours on a very low heat until tender.
4. Check to see whether you need more salt or pepper and put into a 1.2 litre pie dish.
5. Preheat oven to Gas mark 5/200’C
6. For the pastry put 16oz/450g self-raising flour and 8oz/220g of shredded suet into a bowl with a pinch of salt and add a little cold water until a soft dough is formed.
7. Cut the dough in half & put one half aside.
8. Roll out gently onto a floured surface to about 1 cm/half inch thick.
9. With a beaten egg brush around the top of the pie dish and place the pastry carefully on the top.
10. Roll out the second ball of dough and cut out your chosen letter/shapes and place on the top of your pie.
11. Brush the whole pie with the remaining beaten egg and then get an adult to put in the oven for 30-40 minutes until golden brown
Fiveways Ryde School 01983 616272 High quality education for boys and girls aged 3 - 7 years in a secure, caring environment. (See ad inside front cover). Hordle Walhampton, Lymington 01590 672013 Independent boarding and day school for boys and girls from 2 - 13 years. We provide the best possible teaching and have small classes (See ad back cover). Mayville High School 023 9273 4847 Independent school in Southsea.Girls and Boys from 6 mths - 16years. Small - Unique and Successful. Mini Bus picks up from the Hover Craft to the school and back each day. Priory School 01983 861222 Priory School, Alverstone Manor, Shanklin. Offers a independent education for girls and boys from 3 -16 years, with 23 subjects offered to GCSE Level. (See ad page 12).
Snowy letter from Santa. Make Christmas 2011 an extra bit special for your child or loved one with a letter from Santa. See inside back cover for Snowy Letter from Santa. www.snowyletterfromsanta.co.uk
For more recipes from At Sarah’s House go to atsarahshouse.com or www.thefamilydirectory.co.uk
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Independent Schools
Independent Schools E J Matyjaszek BA (Oxon)
Mayville
Principal Head of Priory School
The Small School with a Big Heart
Priory School is delighted to be able to confirm it will move to Whippingham at Easter 2012 to occupy the school there which was founded by Queen Victoria in 1864, to the designs of Prince Albert, who wished to build a school to educate the children of those who worked on the Osborne Estate. This move will allow Priory School to enhance significantly the education it offers, with the much greater facilities, purpose-built classrooms, playing fields in the grounds, and central accessibility this new site offers. Priory School’s ethos of addressing the needs of each child with a combination of academic rigour (as shown by its GCSE results this year with 100% of Year 11 gaining 5 or more GCSEs at A*-C) and pastoral care matches that original concern that led to the founding of Whippingham School, where the welfare and education of the pupils is paramount. Priory School is committed to this ethic of “the good of each child” and looks forward to continuing and contributing to the long heritage of education that has been sustained on this historic site, and of playing its full part in the life of the community in the area.
Hordle Walhampton School Lymington The children in Year Two at Hordle Walhampton School have recently taken possession of a large set of iPads which they are using in class to both support their learning and to extend the curriculum. The new technology is already being used and enjoyed by the children in their maths, creative writing, language and science classes. They also intend to take the iPads with them on future field trips and a planned museum visit where the photographic, video & sound recording and design features can be further used for projects and presentations. Introduced on a trial basis this term, Hordle Walhampton has future plans to extend the use of iPads across the school.“This is a fantastic opportunity for our pupils as the iPads change the way in which technology is used in the classroom, putting it firmly in the hands of the children who are instantly engaged and interested,” said Henry Phillips, headmaster.
To contact the school please call 01983 86122 or visit our website at www.prioryschool.org.uk
Fiveways Ryde School Happy, friendly, caring, airy, spacious, safe and secure are all words that our parents use to describe Fiveways. Our children love coming to school and tumble in through the door each morning, eager to play, learn and have lots of fun.
“One of the South’s best kept secret”, is how parents at Mayville high School in Southsea often refer to their school. Mr and Mrs Dean have three sons at Mayville. Mr Dean says, “It’s a school that looks after its pupils, and they in turn feel confident, and so they achieve.”
We enjoy busy days both inside and outside the classroom and make the most of the Isle of Wight. Wearing a comfy uniform, eating a freshly cooked home-made lunch and learning together are what helps make a Fiveways day, a special day, every day!
This years GCSE’s results are testament to this. A stunning 97 per cent of all who took the exams earnt A* to C grades in 5 subjects. Considering that 25 per cent of the school population is dyslexic, and are there because of the school’s renowned dyslexia unit, this is no mean feat.
If you would like to know more about Fiveways, please call us on 01983616272 or visit our website on www. rydeschool.org.uk and follow the link to Fiveways.
Hordle Walhampton is proud of its strong association with Island families. Many of pupils travelling across daily on the Lymington/Yarmouth ferry, whilst others make good use of the highly flexible boarding arrangements. The school has an outstanding record of achievement in Scholarships and Common Entrance examinations, plus strong associations with many of the well-established and popular senior schools. For further details, or to arrange a visit, please contact Mrs Suzanne Wright on 01590 672013 or by e-mailing: registrar@hordlewalhampton.co.uk
Head teacher Martin Castle says, “Consistently strong GCSE results are important but it is the individual achievement that is the real key to the success of the school.” Mr Dean says, “My wife and I are not high earners and many of my friends ask how you can afford to educate three children privately? It’s thanks to scholarships and sibling discount and the fact that the fees are very competitively priced, that our children get a top quality education with small class sizes.” Our fleet of school minibuses pick up from Portsmouth Harbour station, Hayling ferry, and the Hovercraft, for those travelling into the city. Now Mayville can also boast the use of its own playing fields in Southsea. Things couldn’t be better for our small Hampshire school. Mayville parents, teachers and children know it, and we are only too happy to let you into our secret.
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Education
Education Casa dei bambini Montessori Nursery 01983 566188 A small run established private Montessori Nursery. Providing a good educational and caring environment. The nursery is open for children aged between 2-5 years. Fab Club Brighstone After School Club and Holiday club (See ad page 15)
01983 740285
Fiveways Nursery (See ad inside front cover) 3 - 7 years high quality education for boys and girls in a secure caring environment.
01983 616272
Cheeky Chimps Pre- School (See ad page 15) Ryde Pre-School, afterschool and holiday club for more information please call.
01983 562414
Haylands Pre-School (See ad page 15) High quality care and education.
01983 617185
Island Day Nurseries (See ad inside front cover) 5 Nurseries - Pre-School, Newport, Sandown, Wootton, Brading and St Helens.
01983 533334
Newchurch Nursery School (See ad page 18) Provides very high quality care and education in a superb setting
01983 868361
Nine Acres Pre-School (See ad page 15) A caring pre-school which have close links with reception class.
01983 822163
Windmills Pre-School (See ad page 15) 01983 853955 Windmills Pre-School is situated in the beautiful coastal village of Bembridge . We welcome children from two years of age. Please call for more information YMCA Winchester House (See ad page 16) Day Nursery and Pre-school, play based learning with qualified staff.
01983 862441
YMCA Day Nursery (See ad page 16) Within the grounds of St Mary’s Hospital.
01983 525423
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Education
Education Cowes Primary School
If you missed our recent Open Day it is not too late to come and have a look around our school - just give us a call on 293261 and we will be happy to arrange a tour. Cowes Primary School pupils enjoy many exciting, educational and interesting activities as part of Quest each week. We also run a variety of after school clubs including Art, Choir, Football, Multi-sports, Netball and Orchestra. As a community school, we value support from our local community members. One of the ways of helping us achieve the best for our pupils and school is to offer your time and expertise by becoming a school governor. To find out more, please call 01983 293261. (See advert page 16).
YMCA YMCA is one of the leading service providers for children and young people on the Isle of Wight, with its main hub at Winchester House in Shanklin. Opened in 2010, the popular Winchester House Nursery and Pre-School cares for, and educates children from 6 weeks to 5 years in light and spacious playrooms that open directly onto our large enclosed gardens. Children learn in a fun and safe environment with exciting activities including camp fire cooking. During school holidays a fun club is available for children aged 3 - 5 years. Flexibility is offered in the form of hourly ad hoc sessions for parents who may want some time to go shopping on their own or attend the local gym or swimming pool. For further information or to arrange a visit, contact Diana Jeffries on 862441ext 2209. YMCA Day Nursery and Pre-School, St Mary’s offers care and education to children from 6 weeks to 5 years. Conveniently located on the hospital site, the Nursery has 3 dedicated rooms and a large woodland garden for the children to explore and learn through play. Each school holiday, the nursery also offers its own Daycamp programme for children aged 4 - 8 years, with half and full day options available. For more details or to arrange a visit telephone Jennie Arnold on 01983 525423. (See advert page 16).
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Residential Camps
Parents and Toddler Groups CatURpillars Babies and Toddlers Activity Session, Shanklin 01983 862485 Thursdays 12.45 - 2.30pm and Fridays 10.00 - 12.00. Ride on car, ball pool, play dough, sorting toys, baby area, singing time and lots more. £1.00 per child £1.50 per family inc healthy drink and snack. NCT Bumps & Babies 0844 243 6176 Bumps, Babies and Beyond is especially for new babies through to active pre-schoolers and their parents. Come and play with the NCT, every 1st and 2nd Thursday of the month, at Rookley Village Hall, Highwood Lane, Rookley, between 10am and midday. Contact Amy on 01983 400891. In the West Wight, we meet every Wednesday in Freshwater, between 10am-midday, at the Youth and Community Centre, Moa Place. You don’t have to be an NCT member to join in the fun. Rainbow Corner 07826 543370 The Scout Hall, Adelaide Grove East Cowes. open term times, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays 9.3011.30 starting with free-play time we provide teas & coffees for parents & carers. Followed by singing & healthy snack time for the children. We provide fruit and other goodies but also appreciate any snack items brought by children. Play is guided by the children that come that day, for example we provide a huge range of toys, books & arts/crafts for ages 0-5 and will happily structure the sessions around birthdays & we party whenever we can! Magic Movers with Kay is every Wednesday, no additional cost.
Pamela’s Swimming School Pamela’s Swimming School is a friendly, well established swimming school with an excellent reputation for delivering high quality lessons that see children gain in confidence and ability. Class sizes are small, typically between 4 and 6 children, and lessons run for half an hour. All teachers are experienced and fully qualified to ASA Level 2. One to one lessons for children and adults are also available - please enquire. All swimmers progress by ability rather than age and the approach is one that mixes teaching with fun activities, particularly among the younger pupils. We are an Amateur Swimming Association school and pupils are encouraged by gaining the Amateur Swimming Association’s National Plan awards. We teach all four strokes, personal survival and a wide range of water skills from non-swimmer to advanced. We offer lessons after school on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at the UKSA pool in Cowes. Please enquire about session times. For more information and to talk through your child’s swimming needs, please contact Pamela Ainslie on 01983 294014 or 07732 641125. References and testimonials are available on request. See advert page 06
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YMCA Residential Camps YMCA Residential Camps will next run during the 2012 Summer Holidays, for children aged 9-16 years with 4 or 5 night options. Staying in spacious bunk bedded accommodation overlooking the sea, children have the choice of attending the Daycamps activities or choosing from one of our specialist activity programmes. Mainland children will be collected and returned to Portsmouth. Full details will be available shortly on our website: www.ymca-fg , including early bird discounts! YMCA Children’s Bereavement Service opened its doors to Island children at the beginning of March 2010, offering support to children and young people who have been through a bereavement. Counselling is delivered by a dedicated clinical team in a comfortable suite in the grounds of Winchester House, offering a quiet and relaxing area for children to meet with the team. For further information contact Kelly Burke on 861072. YMCA Isle of Wight Young Carers is also based at the house, offering support and a peer network for children who are in a caring role within their family. For further details contact Heidi Kurowska on 861071. For more details on any of our schemes, visit our website at www.ymca-fg.org.
Places to Visit and Eat
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Places to Visit and Eat
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Top Things to do over the Winter
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Top Things to do over the Winter
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Places to Visit and Eat
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Places to Visit and Eat
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Parties
Places to Visit and Eat The Needles Come to the Needles Park this Christmas for a great selection of Christmas gift ideas, with prices to suit all budgets, free parking, discounts and new for 2011 - Santa’s Grotto, a visit really is a must!
Got a sweet tooth? Isle of Wight Sweet Manufactory makes and sells lovely traditional sweets. Why not pop along to the sweet shop and browse the wide range of products on offer.
Grab that perfect Christmas gift from the Pier Head. The Pier Head Shopping Emporium is a must visit too, we have a wide selection of gifts for all tastes and budgets, from stocking fillers to beautiful handcrafted items so why not pop in and have a look?
New for 2011- Santa’s Grotto in Alum Bay Glass Why not bring the kids out to see Santa in his Grotto in Alum Bay Glass. Santa’s first weekend is 3rd & 4th December. Please check website for more details. www.theneedles.co.uk
Lights, Camera, Action! At Osborne House Christmas Weekend Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 November 10am - 4pm
There’s twinkling lights, a camera obscura and more festive action in store than ever before at this year’s popular annual Osborne House Victorian Christmas Weekend. Families can step into a camera obscura - a darkened room where the outside world appears in full colour and upside down! Christmas trees will twinkle and trees around the gardens will be illuminated with lights to create a winter wonderland. Food lovers young and old will enjoy a Victorian kitchen with nostalgic displays of forgotten kitchenalia, Mrs Beeton giving hints and tips on period Christmas fare and a chocolatier hosting demonstrations of confectionary art. Action will be provided by Father Christmas, Punch and Judy and a cast of costumed characters including Singing Chimney Sweeps, Jack Black the Rat Catcher and Queen Victoria gracing Osborne to recall festive times at Osborne over 100 years ago. Rooms will be decked with decorations just as they would have been when Queen Victoria celebrated Christmas at Osborne. 10am - 4pm (grounds 5pm) Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 November. Adults £13.60, Concessions £12.39, Children £8.20, Family Ticket £35.40. Reduced entry for English Heritage Members. Pre-booked on 0870 333 1181.
For more information visit www.english-heritage.org.uk
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Owl and Monkey Haven
Fun Fashion Shoots
Come and join our ‘cheeky Monkey’s’ at the Owl and Monkey Haven and we will host you a birthday party to remember. Party packages are designed to suit the birthday child and exclusive hire of the ‘Wise Owl’ Lodge makes a party at the Haven a great birthday venue.
This is an party experience that you will remember forever !
Parties include a warm welcome, guided tour, keeper talk, choice of activities/arts and crafts, visit from our mascot monkey, picnic box, goodie bags and invitations! As a lasting memento of a special day, the birthday child receives a bronze adoption of their favourite animal. All this for just £12.50 per child, subject to a minimum booking of eight children. Let us organise your birthday celebrations whilst you can sit back and enjoy the party! Please visit our website www.owlandmonkeyhaven.co.uk for more details or contact Miranda Ley on 01983 530885 for more information on how to make a booking.
Fun Fashion Shoot Birthday Parties - A fantastic experience for a teenager to have a fun fashion shoot at their home or hired venue. Invite their friends along to celebrate a birthday, prom night or any other occasion. At the photo shoot party guests can dress up in their favourite clothes and be a Fashion Star, Rock Chick, Party Divas it’s up to you. The shoot lasts about a 2 hours and will generally include a change of clothes, party dress and informal casual like jeans and t-shirt. Bring along props such as hats, scarves, shoes, sunglasses, anything that brings a bit of individuality and makes the session even more fun. This is an ideal present for your birthday with great photographs to keep forever. Book a space now!
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Parties
Parties
Abigail’s Kitchen (See ad page 28) 01983 209146 We offer all inclusive party pack, perfect for your child’s special day. No mess, no fuss, no venue to find, no party bags to worry about or food to make and best of all no tidying up afterwards! Chessell Pottery Parties 01983 531248 Children love painting! We have two children’s’ party packages at Chessell Pottery. Price includes all materials, glazing, firing plus a children’s’ sandwich platter, carton of juice and crisps. We will do all we can to make your party a great success. Owl and Monkey Haven Birthday Parties 01983 530885 The Haven is also proud to be introducing Children’s birthday parties for the Autumn. Keep an eye on our website for more details and packages available. (See ad page 27) Rhythm Time Birthday Parties 07950 501763 Singing, dancing and fun! Personalised for your child. Available for 1-5 year olds. For more information about Rhythm Time Isle of Wight please call.
Abigail’s Kitchen
Children’s cupcake parties! We are now offering an all inclusive party pack, perfect for your child’s special day. No mess, no fuss, no venue to find, no party bags to worry about or food to make and best of all no tidying up afterwards!
Looking for something special? Let Wightcakes.co.uk provide you with beautifully crafted homemade cakes. We use top quality ingredients and take pride in all our cakes.
West Wight Disco. 0800 118 2484 The Soundtrack to your party. All kinds of music for all kinds of event. Email info@westwightaudio.co.uk Wight Cakes (See ad page 28) 01983 565123 We offer cupcake decorating parties, we provide the cakes and toppings and clean up afterwards, with a present for the birthday girl/boy. All cakes come boxed. Visit our website or telephone us for a chat ,we are happy to discuss over a coffee, you won’t be disappointed. www. wightcakes.co.uk Zumbatomic Parties (See ad page 7) 0800 118 2484 Zumbatomic parties for more information please call Tiffany or email tiffwightzumba@hotmail.co.uk
Delicious cakes with a surprise element
Our party includes everything you need to have a fab, fun, and most importantly, stress and mess free birthday party for your child. Parties are held at our shop (so no tidying up) and last for approx 2 hours for 6 children.
We cater for all your individual needs and dietary requirements, so whether its a birthday, christening, function, wedding or babyshower our motto is: ANY EXCUSE FOR A CAKE various fillings and flavours available including alcohol filled for the adults.
The party package includes:
Prices start from £2
All the ingredients and equipment for each child to bake & decorate 6 delicious cupcakes from scratch. l Gift boxes and personalised gift bags for your guests to take their creations home with them. l Tea-party food including sandwiches, sausages rolls, cakes and drinks. l Giant cupcake birthday cake decorated to your requirements. l A small gift for the birthday child.
Wight Cakes clientele include celebrities. We also offer cupcake decorating parties, we provide the cakes and toppings and clean up afterwards, with a present for the birthday girl/boy. All cakes come boxed.
Make Christmas 2011 an extra bit special for your child or loved one with a letter from Santa. See inside back cover for Snowy Letter from Santa.
Visit our website or telephone us for a chat, we are happy to discuss over a coffee, you wont be disappointed.
www.snowyletterfromsanta.co.uk
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Snowy letter from Santa
01983 565123 The Family Directory 29
Bumps and Babies
Competition 2 Family Tickets to be won for the ‘Santa Special’ at Isle of Wight Steam Railway Soak up the festive atmosphere at Havenstreet Station with a visit to Santa. Stroll through the sparkling Winter Wonderland before meeting Santa who’ll have a gift for every child. Settle back and relax with a cosy ride on the steam train through the Island’s winter country side, and enjoy free entertainment for the children. With seasonal fayre in the Refreshment Rooms and a shop packed with Christmas gift ideas, a visit to Santa at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway is a very special day out for all the family.
A Special Day Out for all the Family l Experience a magical, individual visit to Santa for your children and your family group. l A quality gift from Santa for every child l Explore the charming, but sparkling, Winter Wonderland l A quality gift from Santa for every child l Light refreshments for children to enjoy l Festive tipple or a soft drink, plus mince pie, for every adult l Light refreshments for children to enjoy l Enjoy a relaxing 10-mile round trip on the cosy heated steam train l Meet our festive characters to entertain the children NEW for 2011 l Seasonal decorations adorning each station l Snuggle-up for a trip on the cosily heated steam train l Laugh along with the Childrens jolly entertainment NEW for 2011 l Childrens activities until 4.30pm NEW for 2011 l Well-stocked shop for Christmas gifts l Fully licensed Refreshment Rooms with a wide menu of meals and drinks
Santa Specials - 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, & 24th December For full details please contact: 01983 882204 www.iwsteamrailway.co.uk To win a family ticket, simply answer the following question:
“What is the first and last date of the Santa Specials ?”
The Isle of Wight Branch of NCT Hello. I’m Suzanne and I want to tell you why I’m involved with the Island branch of the parenting charity NCT. I moved to the Island in 2007, when David and I got married. We attended the NCT Isle of Wight’s antenatal classes, not just to learn about the birth, but also to make new friends. After I had my daughter (now 2 years old), I started going to an NCT group especially for new parents. It was a great place to share experiences and meet other people who were learning the ropes. The support was priceless and so was the chance to have a catch-up with other mums, while little Lucy made her own new friends. I’m back at work now, but as Lucy gets older I try to find the time to take her along to Bumps, Babies and Beyond, where she can run around with other toddlers. We also help raise funds for the charity and we take part in the many social events organised by the NCT. You don’t have to be a member to get involved, but I am and I know you’ll enjoy it as much as I do! Find out more at www.wightnct.org.uk Follow us on Twitter (@wightnct) and “like” us on Facebook (NCT Isle of Wight).
Please remember only one entry per child is permitted, please write clearly with your name address, aged and phone number and email address then send your answer to The Family Directory , PO Box 119, Bembridge, Isle of Wight PO35 5WZ. By the 13th December. Or you can enter the competition if you visit www.thefamilydirectory.co.uk All winners will be notified by phone and by post. If you enter the competition your details will not be passed on.
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call us today on
0844 243 6911 The Family Directory 31
Services
Bumps and Babies
Noble Childcare Agency now serving the Isle of Wight. Noble Childcare Agency provides the childcare you’ve been looking for. Marilyn Pitts-Noble, herself with over 15 years professional childcare experience and knowledge, has launched Noble Childcare to provide high quality excellent and affordable childcare to Island families and visitors alike. Understanding how difficult it is for parents juggling busy modern lives, Noble Childcare was created with the clear vision to provide dedicated, experienced and qualified carers to suit the family’s needs. The Carers have been chosen to join the team for their experience and ability to adapt to new environments and caring for children in a range of settings. Noble Childcare recognises no two children or families are alike, and each carer is handpicked to best suit you. Services include: l l l
Traditional Babysitting - so you can enjoy evenings out. Daily Nannies – taking complete care of your little ones Mothers Help - a second pair of hands, working alongside parents to aid all daily activities from childcare to household chores.
Mite Allergy Prevention Study Over the last few decades there’s been an increase in the number of children with asthma, eczema, hay fever and food allergy. We still don’t know why more individuals are developing these diseases. We know that children born into families with asthma and allergic disease are at a higher risk of developing allergies. The purpose of this study is to see if we can reduce this risk. One way to prevent the development of asthma and other allergic diseases is to stop babies becoming allergic to common allergens such as house dust mite. During infancy the immune system is still learning what’s harmful. By exposing babies to a common allergen, such as house dust mite, we hope to be able to teach their immune system that it’s harmless, therefore preventing the development of allergy to it. To be effective we believe we need to act very early in life, well before the baby reaches their first birthday. If we’re correct, this should reduce the development of asthma and other allergies in later life. If this can be proven to work, we’ll be able to apply this preventive measure to other children who are born with a high risk of developing these diseases.
Whatever your dreams or needs are surrounding childcare Noble Childcare Agency can ensure it is covered to a high standard. *All our staff are ‘enhanced CRB checked and carry fully up to date First Aid Certificates.
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Abc Title Services
Services
Can you make a difference to a young person’s life ?
The Price Is Wight
Do you feel you can make a huge difference to a young person’s life by becoming a foster carer? The Island has many youngsters in foster care, but also suffers from a lack of carers, in particular for teenagers. People are often put off becoming involved in fostering. There are many myths out there which people could think disqualifies them from becoming foster parents. They may believe not being married or being gay or out of work means they cannot become involved. That is not the case, and the fostering and adoption team can offer good advice and dispel any concerns. Sadly it is not always possible for all children to be with their natural family, so foster carer’s make a huge difference to people’s lives and many of us may not realise just how important they are. It is vital the Island has a good base of foster carers, so that children in need of care do not have to leave the Island. Foster carers have the full support of the Fostering and Adoption team, whose dedicated staff are on hand with support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To find out more call 01983 525790.
The Price Is Wight offers you unbeatable deals on the best stuff to do, see, visit, eat and buy on the Isle of Wight - while helping boost local Island businesses. Each day we feature fantastic money-saving deals at top-rated restaurants, events, lessons, tours, spas, salons, retail shops, and much more.
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All our deals are discounted from between 50 - 90%. You simply snap up the deal of the day by going to our website - www.thepriceiswight.co.uk and registering your email for free. We then email you out each deal as they launch, giving you first opportunity to snap them up. To purchase you simply go to our website and click on the ‘Buy Now’ button. We use a secure server for your payments. You can use PayPal, debit or credit cards. A printable deal voucher is sent to you via email. Many of our deals are valid for up to 12 months so you can sample them when suits you best. We use email, Facebook and Twitter to spread the word about our website deals.
The Price Is Wight also relies on you telling your friends about us, so make sure you pass it on - and try something new today!
www.thepriceiswight.co.uk The Family Directory 35
Abc Title Photography
Photography The Wight Studio If you ever thought that having a professional photo shoot wouldn’t be fun, then you haven’t been into The Wight Studio in Ryde! Whether you fancy a family shoot at the purpose built studio, a birthday party to remember, or a shoot for your children at your favourite Island beauty spot, Mandy Meadows, Principle Photographer, will capture some amazing images for you. Mandy has been catching people’s smiles all over the Island for over seven years with her relaxed, fun approach to photography. The end result is a selection of outstanding professional images for you to choose from. The Wight Studio can provide prints starting from just £10, canvases, framed images or a number of digital images on disc for you to print and share with friends and family. Completely independently run, The Wight Studio prides itself on producing a quality product that will fit any budget – and they try and have bags of fun and smiles along the way!
The Wight Studio
18 Cross Street, Ryde, I.O.W. PO33 2AD Email. mandy@thewightstudio.com Tel. 01983 615466
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Island Families
Photography The Pop Up Portrait Studio
Marie’s Digital Photography My love & enjoyment for photography has led me to turn it in to a business & share my passion by producing quality photographs at reasonable prices. Photography is not just about taking photographs it about capturing those special moments. I make my photo shoots fun for all enabling me to capture those natural relaxed moments.
The Pop Up Portrait Studio is a newly set up mobile portrait studio business on the Isle of Wight. We offer affordable professional studio portrait photography in the comfort of your home, or venue of your choice. We cater for all ages and even pets! Every portrait session is tailored uniquely to you and offers a fun relaxed style of photography. We have a range of packages available to suit
I am committed to providing a unique and professional service. I work alongside each of my clients with enthusiasm & sensitivity from the first initial contact to the final printing of the photographs. I have worked in Child Care for the last 20 years so I make it my policy to meet every client and their family before the Photo-Shoot, it especially helps the children and parents to feel a little more relaxed. I offer with my husband a unique package which consists of a disco and photography for any special occasion. (See advert page 36)
every pocket. Not to be missed for the festive season is a great Christmas portrait deal which includes a cd of 10 images plus 20 Christmas cards with your favourite photos on for you to wow family and friends with all for an all inclusive price of just £70! Other packages we have available are children’s fancy dress fairy and pirate portrait parties, and a great birthday treat for the older kids fun makeover photo parties! (See advert page 36)
Liz & William Morris Why do you like living in Whitwell?
We like living in Whitwell as it is very peaceful and surrounded by countryside. We can also drive to a beach in less than ten minutes and to Newport in around 15 minutes.
Favourite Local Park
The recreation ground in Niton (Allotment Road) is a great play area with loads of things to do including a skate park and zip-wire. It is a very special place as the money for new equipment was raised by local families and the community.
Favourite Local Club / Class
Linda Jones is a very experienced tennis coach who runs fantastic lessons at Ventnor Tennis Club on Saturday mornings for children of all ages and abilities. William also started sailing this year with Shanklin Sailing Club. It is a small, happy family club with great facilities and instructors.
Favourite Child – Friendly Restaurant
The White Horse Inn in Whitwell. It has a very extensive menu including a good choice of local produce and has a large outside area with some play equipment. The staff are very friendly.
Favourite Place on the Island
Nettlecombe Farm which has 3 fishing lakes and is situated in stunning countryside. Fishing lessons are also available. There are loads of animals on the farm including reindeer and emus.
Best Children’s Book
When William was younger his favourite book was ‘You Choose’ by Pippa Goodhart and illustrated by Nick Sharrat. It is a fabulous interactive book that allows the reader to choose all sort of things.
Favourite Beach
Steephill Cove - It is an unspoilt fishing cove with a safe, sandy beach nestled between rocky cliffs and smugglers coves.
Mum, Claire, Jenna and Ellie Why do you like living in Carisbrooke?
I love Carisbrooke as it is so close to everything we need. It is central for my work, as I run Rhythm Time, and in easy reach of our lovely family and friends who we see regularly.
Favourite Local Park
We love Seaclose after it’s revamp and the girls can’t decide whether or not they preferred Puckpool or Ventnor Botanic gardens… they couldn’t remember where the best ice creams were!
Favourite Local Club / Class
Jenna and Ellie are very musical and love to sing, dance and put on shows. Ellie loves Country Dancing Club at Carisbrooke CE Primary and Jenna is involved in Morris Mynahs and the Elmwood School of Dancing. She also attends 1st Newport Cub Scouts.
Favourite Child – Friendly Restaurant
We don’t eat out much at all but when Morris Mynahs dance at the Dairymans Daughter, they do a great fish finger sandwich!
Favourite Place on the island
Would probably have to be Tennyson Down, Having taken part in the Schools Walk the Wight for the past five years, it has lots of great memories and on a good day you can see for miles.
Best Children’s Book
The Silly, Slimy, Smelly, Hairy Book by Babette Cole… Easy rhythmic reading, makes us chuckle and has fantastic illustrations.
Follow us on Twitter The Family Directory 38 The Family Directory
Favourite beach.
We are so lucky that we have so many to choose from. Our favourites are St Helen’s and Appley.
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Competition Winners This summer Jay Miller Circus was in town and we had 15 winners, here are some of the quotes from the winner’s reviews and you can also find the full reviews on our blog.
“
Ross Farrer the Ringmaster came over for a chat, he
was really friendly. ”
Katie Green
“
My favourite acts were a clown
and a trampoline artiste who was brilliant.
“
”
Alyssa Draper.
My favourite act was Peppi the Clown
because of his outstanding dog that could do back-flips!
”
William Turrell
“
We had lot’s of fun and our favourite act
was Peppi the clown. ”
Blake
These are just a few see www.therainbowdirectoryblog.co.uk
“ The best bit was when a man and lady kept changing their clothes really quickly while they were inside a hula-hoop tube. ”
Iris Little
“ I liked all the acts but my favourite
was the man on the trampoline ”
Lowan Nordbruch - Goode
“ I really enjoyed it, especially the juggler, the
trampoline artist and Peppi the clown ”
Lucy Westmore
“
My favourite was the juggler and
the act which changed clothes, it was very clever.”
Charlie & William Lakin