Spring Issue 2022

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Local Information for parents, teachers and carers of children in Saffron Walden, Bishop’s Stortford, Great Dunmow and Villages

FREE e k to ta y awa

Spring 2022 Issue 93

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Nurture. Strive. Achieve.

SAINT NICHOLAS SCHOOL

Saturday 12th March 10am – Midd ay Whole Schoo l Open Day

• Independent School in Old Harlow for pupils aged 21 2 to 16 • Academic excellence combined with great pastoral care • Small class sizes • Wide ranging extra-curricular programme

www.saintnicholasschool.net | 01279 429910

SAINT NICHOLAS

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in this issue 1

T: 0790 073 5566 E: hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

Smell the flowers & eat the cake…

Spring is here!

true inspiration…. And patient with their working Mummy’s! It's not always easy juggling life!!! Have a great Spring and enjoy the Easter break.

Tam & Lisa

Spring is here to sharpen our senses once again! Longer days, lavish displays of brightly coloured flowers and warmer temperatures are all shouting “rejuvenation” and “renewal”. This issue is blooming with interesting articles, fun facts, entertaining stories and a book review all about the many wonderful things that spring can bring.

The shift into spring plays a positive role in our lives, changes to our routines and schedules. The variation to places we go and things that we do, so why not consider an activity to partake in to welcome this opportunity for a natural fresh start into spring, we have lots of ideas and dates for the diary in our leisure & features section.

This Springs front cover is our own children Foxy and Roma, who happen to be best friends, just like us! They have begged for over a year to be on the front cover and we have finally given in. We would like to thank both children for always being our

Saladdaysmag

Articles & Features

Leisure & Features . . . . . . . . . . 12-25

Creative corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Performing Arts

Learning from nature . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Finding our voices -

Dance, drama, theatre, music .30-34

the power of enrichment . . . . . . . .7 No fault to find? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 White Trees

Babies and Toddlers Toddler Groups . . . . . . . . . . . .38-39

independent school . . . . . . . .10 & 11

Antenatal & Postnatal . . . . . . . . .40

Book review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 & 13 Diary dates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 &15 Gourmet Geezer . . . . . . . . . . .16 & 17

Education

No fuss chocolate scotch egg! . . . . .8

Primary schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-4

Out with new and in with

Tutors and support . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

the old . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 How to raise a body positive child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Sport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26-29

Prescribe yourself a dose of nature . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

“ ”

saladdays.info

Contents:

Saladdaysmag

© Lisa Cureton & Tamara Lee Smart 2021 The copyright of the contents including artwork, advertisements, logos and articles when generated by Lisa Cureton & Tamara Lee Smart t/a Salad Days remain with Lisa Cureton & Tamara Lee Smart t/a Salad Days except where specifically stated otherwise. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior written consent of the publisher. Views expressed in articles are those of the contributors and not necessarily of the publisher. The listings, content and advertising in Salad Days are for information only and must not be used for commercial purposes. Inclusion does not imply a recommendation from Salad Days.

All advertisements are accepted in good faith and on the basis that the advertised goods and services are as stated by the advertiser. ISSN 1752-3257. Data Protection Act Registration Number Z9533787. T: 0790 073 5566 E-mail: hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk. Published and edited by Lisa Cureton & Tamara Lee Smart.

Design Services: Nick Crawley. Printed by Parkes Print & Design, 41 Hitchin Street, Biggleswade, SG18 8BE

Copy Date for Summer issue

2nd May 2022 To advertise in the next issue, include activities, clubs and events in your town village or school or to contribute articles on your speciality subject contact Lisa or Tam on 0790 073 5566 or hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

Pre School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34-37

For digital copy visit

www.saladdaysmag.uk

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2 education Primary schools

www.saladdaysmag.uk

n Stansted St Michael Primary & Nursery T: 01279 652607 E: admin@stmichaelsjmi.herts.sch.uk W: stmichaelsjmi.herts.sch.uk

Felsted preparatory school T: 01371 82260 E: info@felsted.org W: felsted.org

Summercroft Primary & Nursery T: 01279 307477 E: admin@summercroft.herts.sch.uk W: summercroftherts.sch.uk

Great Dunmow Primary T: 01371 873184 E: admin@greatdunmow-pri.essex.sch.uk W: greatdunmowprimary.co.uk

The Richard Whittington Primary T: 01279 657778 E: admin@whittington.herts.sch.uk W: Whittington.herts.sch.uk

The Flitch Green Academy T: 01371 822330 E: admin@flitchgreen.net W: theflitchgreen.net

T: 01279 771339 E: admin@farnham.essex.sch.uk W: Farnham.essex.sch.uk

Thorley Hill Primary T: 01279 654496 E: admin@thorleyhill.herts.sch.uk W: thorleyhill.sch.uk

n Saffron Walden

Hillmead Primary T: 01279 656876 E: admin@hillmead.herts.sch.uk W: Hillmead.herts.sch.uk

Thorn Grove Primary T: 01279 653002 E: admin@thorngrove.herts.sch.uk W: thorngrove.herts.sch.uk

Howe Green House School see opposite page T: 01279 657706 E: schooloffice@howegreenhouse.essex.sch.uk W: howegreenhouseschool.co.uk

Windhill Primary T: 01279 696850 E: admin@windhill.herts.sch.uk W: windhill.herts.sch.uk

n Bishop’s Stortford

All Saint C of E Primary & Nursery T: 01279 836006 E: admin@allsaints.herts.sch.uk W: allsaints.herts.sch.uk Bishops Stortford College see back cover T: 01279 838575 E:general.enquiry@bishopsstortfordcollege.org W: bishopsstortfordcollege.org Farnham C of E Primary see inside front cover

Little Hadham Primary T: 01279 771285 E: admin@littlehadhams.herts.sch.uk W: littlehadham.hert.sch.uk Manor Fields Primary T: 01279 757193 E: admin@manorfields.hert.sch.uk W: littlehadham.hert.sch.uk Northgate Primary & Nursery T: 01279 652376 E: admin@northgate.herts.sch.uk W: northgate.herts.sch.uk

n Great Dunmow

Dunmow St. Mary’s Primary T: 01371 872340 E: admin@dsmprimary.essex.sch.uk W: dsmprimary.essex.sch.uk Felsted Primary T: 01371 820215 E: admin@felsted-pri.essex.sch.uk W: felsted-pri.sch.uk

Dame Bradbury’s T: 01799 454700 E: office@stephenperse.com W: www.stephenperse.com Katherine Semar Schools T: 01799 521120 E: admin.inf@katherinesemar.net W: katherinesemar.co.uk R A Butler Infant & Junior School T: 01799 523651 E: admin@rab.academy.com W: rabutleracademy.org.uk

Bentfield Primary T: 01279 813626 E: admin@bentfield.essex.sch.uk W: Bentfield.essex.sch.uk Magna Carta Primary T: 01279 703484 E: ofice@magnacarta.essex.sch.uk W: magnacartaacademy.org St Marys C of E primary T: 01279 812212 E: office@st-marys-stansted.essex.sch.uk W: stmarysstansted.co.uk

n Villages

Albury C of E Primary T: 01279 771253 E: admin@albury.herts.sch.uk W: albury.herts.sch.uk Ashdon County primary T: 01799 584219 E: Ashdon.essex.sch.uk W: Ashdon.essex.sch.uk Birchanger Primary & Nursery T: 01279 812362 E: admin@birchanger.essex.sch.uk W: birchanger.essex.sch.uk

St Marys C of E school T: 01799 523384 E: info@st-maryscofe.essex.sch.uk W: stmaryssw.org.uk

Chrishall Holy Trinity & St Nicholas Primary T: 01799 550300 E: admin@chrishall.essex.sch.uk W: chrishall.essex.sch.uk

St Thomas More Catholic School T: 01799 523248 E: admin@stmsw.co.uk W: stmsw.co.uk

Clavering Primary T: 01799 550300 E: admin@clavering.essex.sch.uk W: clavering.essex.sch.uk Continued on page 4

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education 3

HOWE GREEN HOUSE SCHOOL Independent Co-ed Prep School for 4 to 11 years and Little Oaks Nursery School for 2 to 4 years

www.howegreenhouseschool.co.uk 01279 657706

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4 creative corner

www.saladdaysmag.uk Continued from page 2

Fox Tyler, Age 7 Great Sampford Primary

Debden C of E Primary T: 01799 540302 E: admin@debden.essex.sch.uk W: debdenprimary.co.uk Elsenham C of E Primary T: 01279 813198 E: admin@elsenham.essex.sch.uk W: elsenham.essex.sch.uk Finchingfield C of E Primary T: 01371 810423 E: admin@finchingfield.essex.sch.uk W: finchingfield.essex.sch.uk Furneux Pelham C of E Primary T: 01279 777344 E: admin@furneuxp.herts.sch.uk W: furneuxp.herts.sch.uk Gt Chesterford Primary T: 01799 530292 E: admin@greatchesterford.essex.sch.uk W: greatchesterford.essex.sch.uk Great Easton Primary T: 01371 870219 E: admin@greateaston.essex.sch.uk W: greateastonprimary.co.uk Great Sampford Primary T: 01799 586280 E: admin@greatsampford.essex.sch.uk W: greatsampford.essex.sch.uk Henham & Ugly Primary T: 01279 850213 E: admin@henhamugly.essex.sch.uk W: henhamugly.essex.sch.uk

Please send your art work to hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk for a chance of featuring in Salad Days!

Manuden Primary T: 01279 842626 E: admin@manuden.essex.sch.uk W: manudenprimary.co.uk

Much Hadham C of E Primary T: 01279 842626 E: admin@standrews236.herts.sch.uk W: standrews236.herts.sch.uk Newport Primary T: 01799 540055 E: admin@newport.essex.sch.uk W: Newport.essex.sch.uk Radwinter C of E Primary T: 01799 599248 E: admin@radwinter.essex.sch.uk W: radwinter.essex.sch.uk Reed First School T: 01763 848304 E: admin@reed.herts.sch.uk W: reed.herts.sch.uk Rickling C of E Primary T: 01799 543274 E: admin@rickling.essex.sch.uk W: rickling.essex.sch.uk Steeple Bumpstead Primary T: 01440 730220 E: officemanager@steeplebumpstead.essex.sch.uk W: steeplebumpstead.schooljotter2.com Takeley Christian School T: 01279 871182 E: office@takeley-christian.essex.sch.uk W: tcst.org.uk Takeley Roseacre School T: 01279 879599 E: admin@roseacres.essex.sch.uk W: roseacres.co.uk Takeley Primary T: 01279 870541 E: admin@takeley-pri.essex.sch.uk W: Takeley-pri.essex.sch.uk

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education 5

S T TASTE EM

R EVENT

12 March 2 0 9.30-12.3022

stmaryscambridge.co.uk/visit

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6 education

www.saladdaysmag.uk

Tutors & support

Learning from Nature Life has been around for over 3.8 billion years – an incredible length of time for nature to evolve and be successful in its fight for survival. This concept of biomimicry (learning from the natural world) is simply fascinating. I wrote previously about how, as an educator, I adopt the principles of nature to inspire the children when they invent, create and design. The children are motivated with ideas and relate them to what they have observed in nature.

It was a freezing but bright and sunny morning on my way to school. With little notice, I was required to teach a class and began thinking about ideas that would encourage the children to write a set of instructions. My choice of aftershave for this day was an earthy one, this got me thinking. Before I knew it, the idea was there – the children were going to use the herb garden and many other plants around the school to design their very own fragrance. The brief was to design a scent for a small monster teddy that I often use for such projects.

The children were completely hooked and were soon in the sensory garden exploring the many scents that nature was able to offer. The vocabulary was vast, words such as ‘fragrant’, ‘pungent’ and ‘calming’ were being said by 4, 5 and 6 year olds! Using chalk circles on the playground (Venn diagrams), the

n Academic

Anna Clarke BA(Ed) Hons Qualified and Experienced Tutor Primary Literacy and Maths. SATs preparation and confidence-building. GCSE Maths and English; T: 01799 526134 children organised the selection of natural products according to their properties. Once the products were organised, the children began to make their concoctions based upon their favourite scents. The aim of the session was to develop writing, so the children wrote the list of ingredients and the instructions for how to make ‘Fragrance for Banjo the Monster’. It was amazing to witness infant aged children, whilst using their emergent writing skills, to compose words such as lavender, flowers and nettles. The energy was electric and the outcomes for the children were incredibly rewarding.

Without nature providing this opportunity, the children would not have been as inspired and motivated.

Instead, they were excited about what they experienced and were able to share this magical, yet simple moment with their families. Opportunities and experiences like this are regularly explored and are becoming ‘second nature’ to the quality of education that we offer.

Mr G. Athanasiou Head Teacher Great Sampford Primary School

Glenis Toms Qualified and experienced teacher.

Maths and English; 7-11 years T: 01799 540833 Kumon Bishop’s Stortford - See page 10 Contact: Nicola Norbury T: 01920 461457; W: kumon.co.uk Sue Herd BEd (Hons) Experienced primary school tutor for Key stage 1 & 2 English & Maths T: 01799 510 995 M: 07836 687376 Caron Johnson Qualified teacher, experienced in supporting children with learning difficulties in KS1. Maths and English.

T: 07305 353720

n Languages

Kidslingo Have fun learning Spanish through songs, games, drama and stories from 0-11 years. Classes also available for nurseries, primary schools & child minders; T: 07926 007797 E: jessicalp@kidslingo.co.uk W: kidslingo.co.uk

Luciana Ferreira Day Spanish all levels E: lucianafday@gmail.com T: 07930 525079

n Family support

Aspects Family Support Ann Creitzman All Saints CE Primary School Parsonage Lane Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 5BE T: 01279 758134 W: www.aspects.org.uk Registered Charity 1164201

n Mindfulness and Relaxation

Nikki Phillips, ITEC IIHHT DIP SMT Youth Mindfulness, Teaching emotional well-being skills for life to all.

Nature retreats, children's, young adults and family courses run all year.

T: 07966 579345 E: info@nikkiphiliips.co.uk W: nikkiphillips.co.uk

Mini Mindfulness programmes teaching young people skills for life.

Relaxing in nature, and being in the present moment can improve sensory awareness. Our sessions raise self esteem, confidence and concentration, whilst reducing anxiety. For summer bookings at Noakes Grove, Nature Reserve .

Contact -Nikki Phillips M: 07966 579345

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education 7

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

Finding our voices – the power of enrichment they returned to school.

As our school community continues to recover together from the impact of the pandemic, we have been supporting our pupil to rediscover their voices and help them feel heard. When they returned from periods of lockdown, children told us they felt isolated and missed being able to communicate with peers and the wider school community. They also shared a feeling of lost confidence as

Our new Wednesday afternoon enrichment programme has been helping children to express themselves in a variety of ways.

Each week, up to 250 children stay for a weekly afternoon of charity-funded activities, supported by a number of specialist providers. From forest school to performing arts, orienteering to art and craft, our children have been expertly supported to rebuild their confidence and celebrate the power of their voices.

“We love Wednesday afternoons because we laugh so hard until it makes us cry.

We have the best of times!”

“I love Wednesday afternoons because when I do art, I get lost in the time and before I know it it’s the end of the day and I get to show everyone what I’ve created.”

This provision would not have been possible without the support of the Wright’s Clock Charity and we are extremely grateful for their ongoing support. Sting Performing Arts, J.S.Sports and Kids R Us have also been invaluable in helping us to bring our vision to reality and we are incredibly excited to share some summer performances which will showcase the children’s creativity and expression.

Alongside our enrichment afternoons, our focus on the power of children’s voices has been leading to change across the school. Our Pupil voice committees have been very busy. The wellbeing team have achieved a Bronze Rights Respecting School award and have been redeveloping playtimes, the environment committee are redeveloping the pond and allotment area and the curriculum committee are conducting pupil surveys to gather children’s views.

So as we continue to recover as a school community, the thing we are most sure of is that schools are best when they are full to the brim with children’s voices and we are enjoying supporting our children to make themselves heard.

Mrs Beci McCaughran Headteacher – Fulbourn Primary School ‘Making Aspirations Achievable Tel : 01223 712525 www.fulbournprimaryschool.co.uk

Hertfordshire Dyslexia

Anne Grass BEd, MA, NASENCO, PGCert Sol.D (Dyslexia) with AMBDA

Services: * Screening (English / Maths Difficulties) * Dyslexia Diagnostic Assessment * Dyscalculia Diagnostic Assessment * Access Arrangements (schools / private) * Cognitive Profiling * Tuition * Support & Advice (schools/ private) Contact detail: www.hertfordshiredyslexia.com annegrass@hertfordshiredyslexia.com 07717 363246

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8 education

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MONDAY

TUESDAY

Thaxted Great Chesterford Jacksons Lane CB10 1PT 9.15am – 10.30am

Car park near fire station Bardfield Road CM6 2LW

9.15am-10.45am

Saffron Walden Bus Stop Ashdon Road Commercial Centre.

CB10 2NQ

11.15am – 12.30pm

WEDNESDAY

Saffron Walden

Park Drive CM6 1WH

11.30am-12.45pm

Flitch Green

Ashdon Road

Car park near pond

commercial centre

Tanton Road

CB10 2NQ!

CM6 3GU

9.15am-10.30am

9.15am-10.45am

Newport

Little Canfield

Dunmow Bus stop, Woodlands

THURSDAY

Cherry Garden Lane

Honey Road

CB11 3PZ

CM6 1FF

11.15am-12.30pm

11.30am-12.45pm

FRIDAY

Dunmow Bus stop

Woodlands Park Drive CM6 1WH

9.15am – 10.30am

Stansted Walson Way Forest Hall CM24 8EU

11.30am-12.30pm

<."&;."-&(-%#',/&).$%#)%& =./'-&.$&>??@AB>?B5C& Stansted Carver Barracks Takeley Felsted "./'-#D1*,E!;#',8).;&& Saffron Walden Memorial hall Bluebell Drive 7'/'%&.1"&F-+/'%-G&& Roseacres Broad Oakes Close Cromwell Road <."&+..H'$!&'$0.";#%'.$& CM24 8XP Braintree Road FFF8+100:+1/8).81H& CM22 6QY CB11 4BE CB11 4YJ CM6 3DY <#)-+..H8).;IJ100:2 1.30pm-3.00pm 1.30pm-3.00pm 1.30pm- 3pm K,#:+1/&&& 1.45pm-3.00pm 1.30pm-2.45pm & !!!>27"#*2)23!'($)"*+!/.-12)!88?@9@ABC("%#*!2<2)+!255&)*!="%%!12!-$32!*&!6224!*&!*("#!*"-2*$1%2,!D.55+!E%$+1.#!)2#2)<2#!*(2!)"7(*!*&!32%$+!$!<"#"*!3.2!*&!&42)$*"&/$%!)2$#&/#! & && ! &&

Free oral health training The updated EYFS framework 2021 specifically identifies oral health as a requirement. This states that settings must promote good oral health for the children they care for.

The Essex Community Dental Services (CDS) Oral Health Improvement Team can offer free oral health training to professionals working in Essex with children or vulnerable adults. This includes nurseries, schools and those

supporting children with additional needs.

The training options are: 1.A live Teams webinar training session tailored to suit the age group you support 2.

An online tool kit which staff can work through at a time convenient to them.

We can also support childcare settings to achieve Healthy Smiles Accreditation and/ or set up Supervised Toothbrushing. This is free of charge as long as your setting is within Essex.

For further details please email Claire.Hobbs@cds-cic.co.uk Toyah.Khan@cds-cic.co.uk

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education 9

T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

Francesca Skakel, Family Law Solicitor.

No fault to find?

An end to the blame game for separating families As of this coming April, divorce law will change for the first time since 1973 with the introduction of the no-fault divorce system.

As things currently stand, there is a need to demonstrate that a marriage has broken down either due to unreasonable behaviour, adultery, desertion or the fact that the married couple have been living separately for 2 years or more. For many separating couples, these criteria do not apply, which can then lead to unnecessary stress when going through the divorce process.

One widely publicised case was where an elderly wife was refused divorce because the Court just didn’t think that the 27 reasons she cited were enough to show that the marriage had broken down. Many people were shocked that the Court could intervene in someone’s decision to leave an unhappy marriage, without the Court then having to assess whether they think their decision was sufficient to obtain a divorce.

Divorce petitions on the basis of behaviour often increase tensions and conflict at a time of strain for all the family and most importantly, this can have a knock-on impact on co-parenting children further down the line. Safe to say, the divorce system has been ripe for an overhaul, and the majority of

Family lawyers welcome the advent of nofault divorce.

Under this new system, there is a no blame element – yousimply need to say the marriage has broken down and the court will take you at your word. This steers divorcing couples away from the obligation to focus on the “bad parts” of their relationship, which keeps tensions low and allows parents to concentrate on coparenting their children more effectively.

That is not to say there is no backing out once the application is made, or that people can find themselves divorced on a whim – the new law introduces a mandatory ‘period of reflection’, which will slow the process down by a minimum of 20 weeks so you can both consider the ramifications of proceeding with the divorce.

This also brings in the ability for you to jointly apply for adivorce, which is ideal for reducing tensions and promoting constructive and collaborative approaches to separation. An attitude which, one would hope, will also transpose into the co-parenting arena.

One of the key causes for conflict around child arrangements is a difficult divorce. With the end of the need to refer to “blame”, this should create a basis upon which separating parents can work together with focus on how to co-parent and support their children across two households, and move forward in a more positive way.

Expect more Expert legal services and independent financial advice Call Cambridge – 01223 311141 Bishop’s Stortford – 01279 755200 Saffron Walden – 01799 527299

BOOST YOUR CHILD’S CONFIDENCE

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to build your child’s confidence and inspire a passion for learning.

To unlock your child’s potential, contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.

Bishop’s Stortford Study Centre 07752 444215

at home | in centre | online Terms and conditions apply.

kumon.co.uk

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10 education White Trees Independent School is a specialist provider of educational services delivering a nurturing environment that supports pupils’ needs enabling them to experience a rounded and balanced education.

Based in Hertfordshire we were originally opened in 2013 for 6 pupils. This has since grown to take 24 pupils and from one site to two. This makes us an especially important part of the White Trees Group which we plan to grow in parallel with the housing and residential expansion, plus the local area authority needs, to accommodate more young people.

We put the pupil’s educational requirements first and don’t try to fit them into a generic system that has already failed to identify and support their educational needs. Many of our pupils have been let down and disappointed time and time again.

www.saladdaysmag.uk The teachers at White Trees School have created a curriculum and education plan in the form of a Pupil Pathway. The Pathway covers the full national curriculum and is designed as a 5-year curriculum in a wide range of subjects. The Pathway program leads directly into further qualifications and in addition accounts for pupils with below age-related levels, incorporating objectives from upper KS2.

The Pathway also includes a deep and wide offer of learning and development beyond academic, vocational or technical abilities through PSHCEE (Personal, Social, Health, Economic & Citizenship Economic Education) and Social Skills pathways. Pupils learn about career paths, social skills, character, attitudes and other areas that will support them to succeed in life after they leave White Trees.

To find out more about our school, please visit https://whitetrees-group.co.uk/education

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education 11

OUR OFSTED REPORT CONFIRMS IT - WHITE TREES INDEPENDENT SCHOOL IS A GOOD SCHOOL!

The latest inspection found that White Trees was a good in every category and went on to make some important statements about us: - Pupils engage positively with learning at White Trees. Pupils learn a curriculum that is carefully tailored to their individual needs and aspirations. They develop the confidence and determination to achieve well. Pupils enjoy the wide range of opportunities they have to learn new skills and develop their interests. Pupils are well prepared for their next steps in education or training.

- Relationships between staff and pupils are respectful and understanding. Pupils learn strategies that help them manage their emotions and their behaviour. Pupils know that staff care for their well-being as well as their achievement.

- The provision for pupils’ personal development is strong. Through the curriculum and wider school experience, pupils discuss, debate and explore different ideas and different points of view. Older pupils can talk about the complexity of issues in society.

Pupils learn to be tolerant and respect differences. Leaders emphasis the importance of physical health and emotional well-being.

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12 leisure and features Animals – from Poo to Poetry Because it is so easy to look things up online now, and children are very used to doing this, hard copy non-fiction books have to be very special indeed to make it onto their bookshelves. Here is a selection of excellent non-fiction picture books which definitely offer more than the internet can.

The first is not a book but ‘Who Did this Poo?’, a delightful 100-piece jigsaw puzzle for ages 5+, which does what it says on the box, inviting children to match different animals to their ‘productions’ (animals and poo are cartoon-type illustrations, not photos). Included is an educational poster full of poo facts. While The Story of the Little Mole Who Knew it was None of His Business by Werner Holzwarth and Wolf Erlbruch is still my all-time favourite animal poo book, this puzzle is certainly a new entry high on my list.

Poo is not the theme of The Big Book of Belonging by Yuval Zommer, though it does feature. This is a beautifully illustrated big picture book which

helps children explore and understand nature by showing how different creatures have adapted to meet the same needs and challenges. For example, bedtime and the need to sleep. We choose to sleep in soft beds. But ‘cows lock their legs so they can sleep while standing up’ which makes it ‘easier to run away from predators in the night’; sea otters wrap themselves in seaweed and ‘hold hands (or paws) when it is time for them to go to bed, which’ stops them from drifting apart while they are asleep’; and butterflies hide under large leaves in the late afternoon as it is too cold for them to be able to fly after the sun goes down. As the author says, understanding these ‘wondrous connections’ between us and all the rest of the natural world, facing the same needs differently, is crucial to the survival of us all (hence the ‘belonging’ in the book’s title).

There are hidden footprints to be found among the illustrations for the sharp-eyed readers who will, I hope, be inspired to go out and look for other evidence of remarkable solutions to shared challenges.

Some creatures’ solutions are so brilliant that we have adopted them for our own use. Invented by Animals, subtitled ‘meet the creatures who inspired our everyday technology’ by Christiane Dorion and Gosia Herba, is just as breathtaking as any David Attenborough documentary I have seen.

www.saladdaysmag.uk It begins (narrated by a frog), ‘Dear Reader, did you know that one of the fastest trains in the world was made quieter and even speedier with the help of the kingfisher? Or that termites helped to design houses that stay cool in hot weather? And that an octopus might hold the recipe for an invisibility cloak?’. With an age-appropriate level of detail (6–10-yearolds), this book is a fabulous way to inspire children to study the world around them and to recognise that we are not necessarily ‘top dog’ and there is so much we can learn if we look carefully.

One of my favourite astonishing examples is the account of ‘earwig origami’ on p.29.

Who knew that earwigs have ‘huge wings intricately folded and tucked away’ which ‘can expand to ten times their size and stay open without any muscle power’ and ‘with just one click, they quickly retract’?

From this discovery came the sort of technology which has allowed the James Webb telescope to take its enormous folding mirror into space ready to send us back pictures of the beginning of the universe!

And one example which made me laugh (because it is so obvious) is that scientists are exploring why woodpeckers don’t damage their brains when they drill for insects – a design which is being copied not just to try to make safer helmets for cyclists and motor racers, but also to protect things which need to resist shocks and bumps, like flight recorders.

The final pages of the book ask questions about some of the natural world’s other extraordinary adaptations and what we might be able to develop from them.

What a fantastic reminder that science is all about asking questions and thinking ‘out of the box’ – and cherishing the nature around us which might just offer answers to our problems.

Before we had science, we had folklore and stories to try to make sense of the world around us. Lore of the Wild: Folklore and Wisdom from Nature written by Claire Cock-Starkey and illustrated by Aitch explores some of these imaginative explanations. While some seem bizarre, they bear witness to our urge to understand and connect with our world. Just try explaining earthquakes without the benefit of the science we now take for granted. In Japanese folklore, it was the ‘giant dragon-headed beetle known as Jinshin-mushi’ burrowing under the earth which caused earthquakes, whereas in East Asia, children were reassured by stories of giant buffalo snoozing under the earth and turning over in their sleep, causing the tremors. And why not?

I loved the highly satisfying explanation of eclipses in Korean mythology. According to their stories, eclipses are caused by the fire dogs of the underworld (the ‘Bul-gae’) ‘trying to steal the moon or the sun. When the dogs try to bite the sun, it burns their mouth and when they bite the moon, it is too cold and so they can’t hold onto either for very long’, which is why eclipses are so short-lived.

Some superstitions are very sound – for example the belief in England that the

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T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk right time to plant barley is when the farmer could comfortably sit on the soil with a bare bottom – when, scientifically, the ground would be warm enough for seeds to germinate.

Each section of this book starts with a folktale from different parts of the world, for example the ancient Greek myth about the creation of clouds, the Celtic tale of the King of the Birds, and the Chinese folktale about the importance of not reading too much into omens. It is so interesting to see all these stories and beliefs brought together, many of which are centred around the observed behaviour of the animals around us, providing such a sense of shared experience with all creatures.

Michael Morpurgo and Emily Gravett’s A Song of Gladness: a story of hope for us and our planet is a lovely moving and uplifting picture-book story of ‘how a song is passed from one animal to another, uniting all living things and spreading joy across the world’.

Inspired by Michael Morpurgo’s encounter with a blackbird in his garden, the tale tells how, on hearing how sad humans were feeling about what we have done to the world, the blackbird spreads a song of forgiveness to all creatures, who come together to sing it out loud: ‘Sing, my friend, sing’ says the blackbird, ‘Our song is your song, your song is our song.’. As Morpurgo says at the end, ‘This song of gladness is for everyone, to bring hope, and to cheer us on our way as we learn to care together for our planet’.

This is a beautiful tale, beautifully illustrated, and with, as one expects from Morpurgo, a beautiful and important message about how and where we belong among all the creatures in the world.

And finally, A World Full of Poems: inspiring poetry for children selected by Sylvia Vardell and illustrated by Sonny Ross. Stacked full of insightful and unusual poems, some classics and some new, all responding creatively to the world we encounter every day, this book is a joy. Animals are often centre stage in unexpected ways. For example, there’s Emily Dickinson’s famous ‘I’m Nobody! Who are You?’ which ends ‘How dreary to be somebody! / How public, like a frog / To tell your name the livelong day/ To an admiring bog’, and John Foster’s ‘Anger’ – ‘Anger/ Is a red bull/ Charging through the mind’s fields, / Inciting actions you may soon / Regret’.

Like all the other books I have selected for this issue of Salad Days, the poems here make connections between us and our world in ways which no internet search could ever achieve. You can find all these books by browsing the shelves at Hart’s Books in Saffron Walden (www.hartsbooks.co.uk) – and next to them on those shelves, I hope you may find other connections to inspire you and your children!

Jo Burch

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Diary Dates

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St Patricks day

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Stansted Messy Church 3.30 – 5 pm St John’s Church Hall, Stansted .For all ages but particularly suitable for families with children under 12. Free. www.stanstedchurches.com/ messychurch Tel: 01279 814059

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Mothers Day

March 3

5-6

World Book Day World Book Day changes lives through a love of books and shared reading. Our mission is to promote reading for pleasure, offering every child and young person the opportunity to have a book of their own. Reading for pleasure is the single biggest indicator of a child’s future success – more than their family circumstances, their parents’ educational background or their income. We want to see more children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, with a life-long habit of reading for pleasure and the improved life chances this brings them.

Sing 2 - Saffron Screen

www.saladdaysmag.uk 9-18

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Mountfitchet Castle will be running an Easter Egg Hunt event… Come along and join in the fun. It's going to be so Eggciting!!!

Clocks go forward

April 2 -18 Audley End Miniature Railway Visit the Easter Bunny and his furry friends!Join in the fun at the Audley End Miniature Railway and visit our very own Easter Bunny at his Spring Home in the woods!

Hop aboard one of our trains and venture deep into the woods to visit the Easter Bunny, receive a special gift and meet his other furry friends.

8 - 12 South Mill Arts For Ages 2+ Dear Zoo Live!I wrote to the Zoo to send me a pet and they sent me a…Ben and Sally are searching for the perfect pet, but instead the zoo send a far too big elephant, a far too grumpy camel, and a far too jumpy frog.

Whatever will they send next!

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South Mill Arts 10.00am-2.00pm Kids Craft - Snacking Rabbit Free drop-in craft activity. Make this simple moving toy so the rabbit can snack on a tasty carrot.

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Stansted Messy Church 3.30 – 5 pm St John’s Church Hall, Stansted. For all ages but particularly suitable for families with children under 12. Free. www.stanstedchurches.com/ messychurch. Tel: 01279 814059

May 2 23

St Georges Day

All Saints’ Church, Stansted Road, Hockerill 15

Good Friday

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Easter Sunday

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Earth Day Let's invest in our planet…What will you do to help raise awareness about pressing environmental issues?

Early May Day Bank Holiday 8th Garden Day

MOTHERING SUNDAY, 27 March, 10am An informal family service, at which flowers will be blessed for children to present to their mums. Parish Breakfast will follow this service.

PALM SUNDAY, 10 April,10am Procession and Sung Mass, where we follow Jesus into Jerusalem with a Procession with Palms (outdoors if fine). Parish Breakfast will follow this service.

GOOD FRIDAY, 15 April, 12 noon Liturgy of the Cross. 2.15 for 2.30pm to 5.00pm Children’s Activity Afternoon in church for children of primary school age from church and the three primary schools (All Saints, Summercroft and Thorn Grove) in our parish.

HOLY SATURDAY, 16 April, 8pm Lighting of the Easter fire, Vigil, renewal of our Baptismal vows, and celebration of the First Mass of Easter. This is the greatest celebration of Easter, and, if you have a handbell, bring it along and be ready to ring in the Resurrection!

EASTER DAY, 17 April , 10am Sung Parish Mass. Parish Breakfast will follow this service.

ALL WELCOME!

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Why not try… Punting Tours The whole family can take in the beautiful views of the college "Backs" on a Cambridge Punt Tour of the river. It’s an ideal opportunity to take photographs of the iconic colleges, from a unique and privileged viewpoint.

Something that both parents and the kids can enjoy!

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8th Garden Day Garden Day aims to highlight the positive benefits our gardens have on our wellness. It is a chance for people to down tools, don a flower crown and spend time celebrating their gardens. Everyone is invited from balcony and indoor gardeners to flower border fanatics and lawn devotees

20-22 National Flower Show at Hylands House in Chelmsford

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16 leisure and features

www.saladdaysmag.uk ideas, executed with the care and attention you deserve.

Custom Created Experiences Whether it’s an intimate dinner, a cocktail party or a large gathering, we can custom-create a restaurant level

Whether it be a small private dinner, gathering, or a larger event we cover it all!

experience to suit your needs.

Haute Cuisine? At your service.

Smokin’ Southern BBQ? No problemo.

Allergies? We got you.

We can create a bespoke menu just for you, or if you would prefer, simply leave the ideas to the Chefs artisticdirection.

There is huge flexibility.

Effortless Entertaining We’ll create your menu, source your produce and cook up a storm in your kitchen - without the hassle. We’ll leave you with no washing up (and no taxi to catch home…!)

SOURCING Wherever possible, we use local produce to ensure the finest and freshest of ingredients.

WHY US Our menus are inspired by some of the best restaurants around the World.

Whether it be fine dining or a Southern American BBQ, everything is tailored to your taste buds, with fresh innovative

WHAT'S INCLUDED Your personal Chef(s) will plan your bespoke menu. Travel to your location.

Provide all clean crockery and cutlery. End of service clean up (You won’t know we’ve been there) Alongside the Chef(s) We can cover your every need for the evening, perhaps

We are rather partial to a tipple or two so when the GOURMET GEEZER came over to ours to make dinner and cocktails especially for us, we couldn’t wait to share it with you.

With over 25 years experience working in some of the UK’s top kitchens, and cooking for A-list celebrities, the Gourmet Geezer is now bringing restaurant quality dining to your home. The Gourmet Geezer is definitely not your stereotypical stuffy chef, he’s cheeky, fun and delivers plenty of banter alongside his amuse bouche! Our bespoke dining experience was professional and decadent and guess what….

We did it all in our slippers! If you have an occasion you would like to celebrate in style or just want to spoil yourself with some yummy food; we couldn't recommend the Gourmet Geezer highly enough.

Tam & Lisa x

you’d also like a host or cocktail mixologist. This will allow you to sit back and enjoy, whilst being waited on by our professional team. Your drinks are poured and served. What else could be better, you won’t lift a finger.

(Waitress/Mixologist costs extra) CLEAN-UP We will leave the kitchen as we found it All clean-up is included in the price.

CATERING AND EVENTS Intimate or large lunch/dinner parties Garden parties / BBQ’s - Birthdays Weddings - Christenings - Funerals Corporate Events.

We are happy to cater it all

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18 leisure and features

No Fuss - Chocolate Scotch Egg! This is a chocolate lovers dream and its fun for the children to try.

Each Scotch Egg Crème Egg contains one whole Crème Egg, wrapped up in a chocolate brownie, set in the fridge and covered in sprinkles.

Feeling adventurous?

Experiment with different coatings; honey comb pieces, edible glitter or even freeze dried fruit crumbs.You can even change the eggs inside, which ever is your favourite … as long as it gooey!

You can make your own brownie or just buy one to save time just like we did here at Salad Days.

www.saladdaysmag.uk The recipe 1 Large Chocolate Brownie (already made)

even thickness all the way around. (We aimed for about 1cm).

5 Cabury’s Cream egg or choose Caramel or Oreo Eggs

Step 3: Once you've coated your egg and smoothed it as best as you can, place it on a baking tray lined with baking parchment. Put this in the freezer for five minutes so the scotch egg firms up.

200g Sprinkles of your choice Step 1: Take your brownie and skim the top off of it to remove all of the loose crumbs.

This will ensure you have a smoother mixture to shape around your creme egg.

Step 2: Take a creme egg and remove the wrapper. Use your hands to shape the brownie around the egg ensuring an

EGGTASTIC EVENTS Easter Party Friday 8th April The Tired Mum’s Club are hosting an Easter Part with Arts, Crafts, Dancing, Food and Drinks.

Havers Lane Community Centre, Bishops Stortford 12:30 -2:30pm and 2:45 - 4:45pm £5.50 an adult, children go free.

Check out the tired mum’s club on Facebook for more!

Kids Easter Workshop Thursdays 14th April Get creative with your little ones this Easter with making an artificial flower basket with special appearance from the

Step 4: Remove the scotch egg from the freezer and then roll in your topping of choice.

We suggest chocolate strands, or multicoloured strands for that pop of colour.

Enjoy!

Easter Bunny.

St Johns Hall, Stansted.

2pm-4pm £20 a child Booking is essential petal lane.co.uk@gmail.com Audley End House and Gardens Train Ride, Meeting the Easter Bunny and his friends, Easter Trail, Craft Making, Gift for every child.

Booking is required. Tickets on sale Friday 8th February 2019. Sign up to our mailing list on our home page to be notified.

6th to 18th April: Ticket Price: £12 per person, 0-24 Months go free 19th to 22nd April: £12-£14 per person, 0-24 Months go free

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20 leisure and features

Out with the new and in with the old

A couple of years ago, I saw an advertisement for an app called GoodOnYou and decided on a whim to download it. It was formed by a group of campaigners, fashion professionals, scientists, writers and developers, who had come together to expose the issues prevalent in the fashion industry and had created GoodOnYou to rate retailers based on their policies of labour rights, animal rights, and impact on the environment. I remember sitting there that first night and searching for all my favourite brands. One by one, over and over, their ratings kept coming back as “we avoid” or “not good enough” and the more I fell down the rabbit hole of research, the more horrified I became.

Soon after, I began reading a book called ‘Fashionopolis’ by journalist Dana Thomas. If I could insert that emoji with its mind blown, somewhere here, then trust me I would; the figures she presented were unbelievable, and not in any good way. They included facts such as: • The fashion industry employs a sixth of all people on the planet, many of them women, and most employed in the world’s developing countries where labour is cheapest for manufacturers. It is the most labour-intensive industry in the world, and less than 2% of employees earn a living wage.

• Keeping up with current trends has meant an exponential rise in the rate of clothes production. New designs are copied, manufactured and shipped globally at incredible speed, ready for mass consumption. Fast Fashion has become standard, and with it we have created a sustainability nightmare.

• In the UK alone, 9,513 garments are

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dumped every 5 MINUTES, with further research estimating that £140 million of clothes end up in landfill every single year. Worse still, the high synthetic content of many fast fashion items means they are not biodegradable, leaching chemicals into the surrounding environment.

I found the stats pretty sobering, and although there are many amazing sustainable brands (you’ll prise my Vejas from my cold dead hands), I was conscious that buying these to excess would still be adding to the vast amount of clothing already in circulation. And so began my little love affair with pre-loved. I figured if I was making an effort to re-wear clothes that were already out there, I’d be doing my bit to lower demand and use up the excess.

It’s really interesting how the younger generations seem to have embraced buying second hand. I think 10/20 years ago there was more of a stigma attached to it, but the environmental crisis and the rise of apps like Depop and Vinted seem to have spearheaded a real cultural shift. Social media, too, has thriving sub-cultures focused on

pre-loved shopping and consequently I’ve found myself included in some amazing communities focused on change.

I think when it comes to this journey, everyone is on a different path. For me, I shop partly on the apps I’ve listed, partly on Instagram (yep, check it out-there are some amazing selling pages) and partly in local charity shops. We are so lucky with the quality of stores in this area, it’s very rare I come out of a charity shop in Thaxted or Saffron Walden without something amazing at a bargain price. I would say that 85% of my wardrobe is now pre-loved and where it isn’t or I have to buy new, I focus on investing in better, classic pieces, which I know will last me for years.

The issues in the fashion industry are complex and far reaching, and I’m aware that they aren’t going to be solved overnight, but shopping second hand is one way I feel I can make a personal difference to the current crisis. Plus, I’m saving a small fortune … and with three young children growing at an implausible rate, that’s always a bonus!

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How to raise a body positive child!

Parents, of course, intend to protect their children from harm. But when it comes to food, health, weight and body image, fostering an uncomplicated, positive outlook can be a giant challenge.

Especially the parent's own relationship with these topics are impacting the way their kids are feeling about their body image. It would be a miracle if we, as adults, didn't have our own harmful diet culture beliefs we’ve absorbed over the years. It's important to raise children to develop a core belief that their worth does not rest solely on their appearance, their weight, or eating habits. Of course we must support our children in finding a way of eating that is not only enjoyable but nourishing too.

Diet culture is everywhere, and is even taught in schools as “nutrition education” with the intent to keep kids from gaining too much weight — as if all bodies are designed to be the same relative size and shape (news flash — they’re not). But raising a child who is satisfied with their body is not only possible, but so worthwhile. It won't always

be easy — you're going against a pervasive cultural force — but then, you're a parent, so you're used to challenges for the sake of your kids. In short, we have forgotten the very basic

nature of feeding – that it is about nourishment, not weight.

To raise kids who are satisfied with their bodies use the REAL acronym: Reduce body shame, Embrace their needs- be present with your child and help them feel seen. Accept their desires and appetite, Love their body for the way it is today don’t try to make it something it isn’t.

It's good to encourage conversations about body image in a way that is respectful and celebrates diversity.

Many families avoid talking about bodies, thinking it’s a way to avoid body judgement — but that really just makes body talk feel negative and off limits.

It’s more protective for kids to normalise talking about bodies with you, and to demystify them.

Home can be a safe place to ask questions, and conversation is a great way to model that “fat” is not a bad word — it’s the negative

meaning our society has attached to “fat” that’s harmful.

The goal here is to celebrate all bodies and expose kids to body diversity. When a child makes a comment about their body being “big, soft, squishy or bumpy” instead of saying, “no it’s not!” or telling them to just not talk about bodies, you can say “Yes, it is! And isn’t it lovely?!

Bodies come in all kinds of different shapes and sizes, there isn’t one good way to have a body.” Or, “Mine too! I love my soft belly, wiggly arms or big bottom.”

These conversations model that you appreciate diversity in how we look, and neutralise and normalise how bodies exist instead of upholding rigid beauty standards. From their earliest years, we can teach kids that all bodies are worthy of respect and dignity. If you have a teenager it's best to monitor social media platforms like TikTok which can be a toxic place for young minds with diet and fitness messages that promote disordered eating. I say this with the utmost compassion - so many of us have had negative or traumatic experiences relating to our bodies. We really need to think about our own relationships with the scale and explore how we can shift the narrative around bodies and weight at home for our children.

Ultimately, if we want to save our kids from diet culture's shaming darkness, we need to also try to save ourselves. The more we commit to this, the safer and less shaming our communities, classrooms and playgrounds will eventually be.

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We’re bounding into spring at South Mill Arts with a fantastic lineup of shows and activities!

Please check our site for further details: www.southmillarts.co.uk There’s plenty of FREE activities taking place with our Museum team, bring your little ones, roll up your sleeves and prepare to get creative!

Dear Zoo promises to be a fabulous introduction to the theatre for young children, with no interval and the perfect running length, lots of laughs and audience interaction. It’s a colourful show packed full of puppetry, songs and, of course, all the animals from the zoo.

Circus Sonas ia a friendly show contains circus stunts that will make you gasp, juggling tricks that will surprise you, and magic tricks that will make you go WOW! There will be shouting, cheering, and lots, and lots of laughing. Top class circus entertainment, and the two best beards in the business. This show is suitable for children and adults of all ages.

Also, coming up later in the month, lets not forget that we’ve got Horrible Histories: The Terrible Tudors 29th Apr - 1st May. From the horrible Henries to the end of evil Elizabeth, hear the legends (and the lies!) about the torturing Tudors. Find out the fate of Henry’s headless wives and his punch up with the Pope. Meet Bloody Mary and see Ed fall dead in his bed.

Survive the Spanish Armada as they launch their attack!

It’s history with the nasty bits left in!

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Spring Holidays

leisure and features 23 Children under 16 attending the crafts sessions need to be accompanied by an adult at all times.

A Chick in an egg Tue 5th & Wed 6th April | 10am - 2pm Open the egg to reveal your cute chick!

Free Drop in

Discover & Make: Green Man Thurs 7th April | 10am & 1pm. £5 Green men are traditionally used to herald the spring. Find out about the ancient customs and make your own Green Man face from clay. Ages 6+

Snacking Rabbit Tue 12th & Wed 13th April | 10am - 2pm Make this simple moving toy so the rabbit can snack on a tasty carrot.

Free Drop in

Dear Zoo Mon 11th Apr 1:30pm | Tue 12th Apr 1:30pm | For Ages 2+ With lots of laughs and audience interaction Dear Zoo is the perfect introduction to theatre!

Discover & Make: Victorian Spring Cleaning Thur 14th April | 10am & 1pm | £5 Do the laundry the Victorian way.

Then play some games and make a Victorian toy. Ages 6+

Circus Sonas Thurs 21st April | 2pm Father and son Martin and Logy take the traditional circus double act and give it a unique and modern twist.

To book your tickets please visit orsouthmillarts.co.uk call our Box Of ce: 01279 710 200

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Teaching young people skills for life.

outdoors in the beautiful setting of a local nature reserve.

The health benefits of time in nature are well documented. Learning relaxation this way is a powerful and wonderful way to get your feet where they belong, back on the ground! It really does improve wellbeing, lowering blood pressure, heart rate, improving immune function and activating the parasympathetic nervous system, the calming part of the brain, reducing stress and anxiety.

Prescribe yourself a dose of nature Having taught relaxation and wellbeing for twenty five years, it is really wonderful to be able to work with little ones and families in a fun and interactive way, giving resilience and an invisible toolkit to help manage life’s many ups and downs.

Sessions are available indoors and outdoors; we’re lucky enough to enjoy the

Nature connects us to all our senses, helping us understand our environment and how we respond to it. What we see, hear, taste, smell and touch will help us all improve our physical well-being.

Enjoying the natural environment helps us to grow gratitude, compassion, and

For more information call

07966579345

email nikki@nikkisammons.co.uk www.nikkisammons.co.uk IHHT.SMT. Youth mindfulness trained.

DBS and first aider.

Mindfulness in nature, being in the present moment, raising selfesteem, improving resilience, confidence, concentration and reducing anxiety. Teaching gratitude and compassion. Improving sleep and managing difficult thoughts and emotions.

Sessions run indoors or at a beautiful local nature reserve.

Young adults, 1 to 1 and family sessions available.

Tuesday’s and Thursday mornings 9.15 – 10.15 I run a Mini Mindfulness outdoor toddler group.

kindness, put yesterday in the past, worry less about tomorrow and help us focus on the present.

Get your wellies on and prescribe yourself a dose of nature with me.

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What we do Uttlesford Foodbank provides seven days’ worth of emergency food and essentials to those in crisis across the whole of Uttlesford. We currently provide a doorstep delivery service and a friendly follow-up phone call to our clients. We work closely with agencies across the region to ensure that anyone in need is able to access our services.

We are part of the Trussell Trust’s UK-wide network of foodbanks, working to help people affected by poverty.

If you need help If you need help from Uttlesford Foodbank, please call Uttlesford Citizen Advice on 01799 618840 or contact the benefits team at UDC, your doctor, frontline health worker or social worker for a referral to us. We offer a confidential service and can put any fears you may have at ease.

How you can help Visit uttlesford.foodbank.org.uk for information about how you can donate either food or make a financial donation, call us on 07531 436335 or email us at info@uttlesford.foodbank.org.uk.

Facebook:uttlesfordfoodbank Twitter:uttlesfordfb

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Low impact - big results! A dynamic mix of YOGA, PILATES & BALLET. Perfect through injury rehab, pregnancy & post partum. LIVE ONLINE & FACE TO FACE CLASSES

FB/Insta @barrefusionuk Tel: +44 7983974622

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26 sport

Karate

Saffron Walden Kyokushin Karate Club

Monday: 7-8pm at Lord Butler Leisure Centre and Wednesday: 6-7pm Saffron Walden Baptist Church

Ages - 5 and over

Come and learn this tradition style of Karate.

Karate will benefit you throughout your life.

Improve focus and concentration, gain self respect, self confidence and self discipline, become more active, healthy body and a healthy mind!

Karate is an individual sport with no bench time!

Come along and have some fun whilst you learn new skills and make new friends.

We are a member of the British Karate Kyokushinkai Federation and World Karate Union.

Contact

07973 296007

waldenkyokushinkai.co.uk E: ismailyildirim1964@gmail.com

www.saladdaysmag.uk

Sports clubs n Archery

Stortford Archery Club Ages: 10+ E: secretary@stortfordarchers.org.uk W: stortfordarchers.org.uk

n Badminton

Bishop’s Stortford Badminton Club Ages: 12+ Contact: Phil Barton; T: 01279 654464 W: stortfordbadminton.net

n Cricket

Bishop’s Stortford Cricket Club Jnr Section Ages: 5+ Contact: Graeme Sumner E: gsumner@arroweurope.com T: 07768 368773 Dunmow Cricket Club Ages: 5-16 Contact: Matt Gibson T: 01371 872652

Turpins Indoor Bowls Club Ages: 10+ accompanied T: 01799 525959

Saffron Walden Cricket Club Ages: 4-any age (boys, girls, disabled) Contact: David Barrs; T: 07760 484390 E: saffronwaldencricketclub@gmail.com W: saffronwaldencricket.co.uk At the clubhouse, Anglo American Playing Fields (off Catons Lane) All children aged 4+ welcome

Wimbish Carpet Bowls Ages: 10+ Contact: D Vettewinkel T: 01799 732098 E: d.vettewinkel@sky.com

Stansted Cricket Club Ages: 8-15 Contact: Keith Ayres T: 01279 814471 E: batsman1uk@yahoo.co.uk W: stanstedcc.hitscricket.com

n Bowls

n Canoeing

Bishop’s Stortford Canoe Club Ages: 8+ by discretion Contact: Angela Aldam T: 01279 755089 E: info@stortfordcanoe.org.uk W: stortfordcanoe.org.uk Whoosh Explore Bishop’s Stortford Contact: Peter Nash T: 01279 817453 (evenings) E: peter.nash@yahoo.co.uk W: whooshexplore.co.uk

Thorley Cricket Club Bishop’s Stortford Ages: 8+ Contact: Nigel Pack T: 07984 006012 W: pitchero.com/clubs/thorleycricketclub/ Wenden Kwik Cricket Ages: 4-12 Contact: Ed Welch T: 07825 210021 E: wendenjuniorcricket@gmail.com

n Fitness

Lift Off Academy Bishop's Stortford (Twyford Business Centre) Ages: 4 years plus Contact Name: Anne-Lise Fitzgerald E: anneliseblum@gmail.com

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T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk Instagram: @thekookycoach Fitness classes for children teaching them how to move safely, whilst having fun.

n Football

Bishop’s Stortford Football Club Ages: 8+ Contact: Tim Moylette T: 07740 945117 E: tim.moylette@bscfc.co.uk Bishop Stortford Football Club 2 year BTEC extended diploma in sport Birchwood High School, Bishops Stordford Contact: Jim Duggan T: 07870 970925 E: jim-duggan@hotmail.co.uk/ jclift@birchwoodhigh.org.uk Elsenham Youth Football Club Ages: 4-18 Contact: Paul Jarvis, T: 01279 814434 E: pajemiki1@hotmail.com W: eyfc.org Plantation Youth Football Club Saffron Walden Ages: 4-16 Contact: Adrian Marsh M: 07980 946424 E: adrian.marsh1@virginmedia.com W: mypartnerclub.co.uk/plantation-youth-fc

Saffron Walden Community FC Boys: ages 4-18; Various venues T: 01763 836928/07775 944664 E: chairman@PSGFC.co.uk Saffron Walden PSG FC Ages: 6-16 Herbert’s Farm, Saffron Walden T: 01763 836928/07775 944664 E: chairman@PSGFC.co.uk

Thaxted Rangers Youth Football Club Ages 7+ Contact: Martin Tritton; T: 07976 670409 E: martintritton@hotmail.com FB: thaxtedrangersyouthfc

n Golf

Bishop’s Stortford Golf Club Ages: 5+ Pro: Simon Sheppard; T: 01279 651324 W: bsgc.co.uk Golf World Stansted Contact: Colin Pharaoh T: 01279 812865 Great Hadham Golf & Country Club Ages: 4+, Pros: K Lunt/P Hetherington T: 01279 843558, W: greathadham.co.uk Saffron Walden Golf Club Pro: Rob McNicholas; T: 01799 527728 E: sarah@smithpeformancegolf.co.uk Junior coaching programme open to all ages and abilities of children!

n Gymnastics

Lift Off Academy and listed under Fitness Stortford Gymnastics Ages: up to 12 T: Janine Peart 07808 808815/ Karen Perkins 07976 124095 E: enquiries@stortfordgymnastics.com W: stortfordgymnastics.com

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28 sport

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Warm water pools ideal for beginners & improvers • Friendly, experienced teachers • Fun and progressive • Small classes (max. 6 pupils) • Free award scheme Linton & Fulbourn Ages 3½ onwards Call 01799 500142, Mob: 07947 730287 sasswimmingcambridge@gmail.com

www.sas-swimming.co.uk n Hockey Blue Hornets Felsted and Braintree W: braintreehc.co.uk/bluehornets Saffron Walden Junior Hockey Club Ages: 7-15, Contact: Andy MacIntosh; T: 01799 550878 W: saffronwaldenhockey.co.uk

n Martial arts

Associated Karate Schools (AKS) Bishop’s Stortford - St Michael's Mead & Bishop's Park Contact: Anthony Barrett 5th Dan T: 07929 100612 E: barrettbusiness@aol.com W: karateschools.co.uk Bishop’s Stortford Judokwai W: bishopsstortfordjudo.com

B.L.Tae Kwon-Do Schools Saffron Walden; Contact: Bruce Lapthorn T: 01354 693554/07816 032265 E: bruce@tkd72.plus.com W: bl-taekwondo-schools.co.uk Budo Taijutsu Saffron Walden W: mushinzui.com Dunmow Shotokan Karate Club Instructor: Garry Hutton T: 07770 854154; W: eska.org.uk Haverhill & Saffron Walden Shotokan Karate Ages: 5+ Contact: Gill Payne; M: 07939 138665 E: gill.payne@talktalk.net Judo, Ickleton and Sawston Ages: 6+, Contact: Richard Drage T: 01763 838203; M: 07860 331081 E: iskjc@yahoo.co.uk)

Koryoda Kids Martial Arts for Little Ninjas Ages: 6-11 W: koryoda.com SW Judo Club Ages: 7+ E: saffronwaldenjudoclub@hotmail.co.uk Thursdays Dame Bradbury's School SW Contact: Michelle Camp FB: "Saffron Walden Judo Club".

Shotokan Karate Ryu Bishop’s Stortford & Stansted Ages: 4+ Contact: Sensei Donna Ring 5th Dan or Sensei Michael Ring, 6th Dan T: 01279 731752 W: skr.org.uk Te-Ashi-Do Karate Bishop’s Stortford Ages: 3-adult Sensei Alan Worrell, 4th Dan T: 07826 849388 E: alan.worrell@sky.com W: teashido.co.uk Wendens Ambo Mini Rugby Ages: 5-12 Joyce Franklin Academy Contact: E: chair@wendenrugby.com www.wendenrugby.com

n Squash

Bishop’s Stortford Squash Club Juniors Ages: 5 years+ Contact: Andrew Mulvey; T: 01279 652897 E: andrewmulvey@stortfordsquash.co.uk W: stortfordsquash.co.uk

Saffron Walden Squash Club Ages: 8-adult; Junior coaching Saturdays Contact: George Atterbury T: 01799 530695 E: george.atterbury@hotmail.com

n Swimming

Bishop’s Stortford Swimming Club Bishop's Stortford College Sunday 3-6pm Ages 3-Adult E: membership@bsswimclub.org.uk www.bsswimclub.org.uk Dolphin Swim Linton, Fulbourn & Bishops Stortford Ages: 6 weeks + Contact: Amanda Gawthrope T: 07975 719 444 E: dolphinbabyswim@gmail.com W: dolphinbabyswim.com & bishopsstortforddolphinswim.com SAS Swimming - see opposite page Linton and Fulbourn classes Ages: from 3 ½ yrs+ T: 01799 500142 or 07947 730287 E: mail@sas-swimming.co.uk W: sas-swimming.co.uk Saffron Walden Swimming Club (Saffron Seals) Ages: 8-16 E: trials@saffronseals.org.uk W: saffronseals.org.uk Meets at Lord Butler Fitness & Leisure Centre, Saffron Walden with training sessions on Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Competitive club with an element of fun.

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T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

sport 29

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30 performing arts

www.saladdaysmag.uk

Dance & drama n Dance

PR E S E NT

45*/( "-"/ */$-64*7& 5)&"53& (3061 '03 "%6-54 8*5) "%%*5*0/"- /&&%4 A per forming ar t s company delivering multi-thea tre c la sse s t o a dult s o f a ll abil it ie s w it h e xp e r ie nc e s in per forming on sta ge impac ting locally and nationally to audiences.

JCL School of Dance M: 07753 607 523 E: julialast8@gmil.com W: jclschooldance.webden.co.uk KBD Dance M: 07305 113 187 E: katie@kbddance.com W: kbddance.co.uk Kate Plummer School of Dance M: 07832 212 593 E: kateplum@hotmail.co.uk

DANCE SINGING

DRAMA

HARLOW PLAYHOUSE PLAYHOUSE SQUARE HARLOW CM20 1LS

FRIDAYS 6pm -7pm

To b ook : C all Lis a on 079 03 1 92 094 or email: lisa@st ingper formingar t s .com Tamara on 079 0 0 7 35 5 66 or email: t am@st ingp er formingar t s .com

Tempos Performing Arts M: 07956 211 909 E: info@temposperformingarts.co.uk W: temposperformingarts.co.uk

n Drama Drama Wise T: 01223 832 288 E: frances.wyse@btinternet.com W: dramaclasses.biz

n Theatre schools Buzzy Bees Sting Performing Arts M: 07900 735 566 E: hello@stingperformingarts.com W: stingperformingarts.com Graham School of Dance T: 01279 654 423 E: info@grahamschoolofdance.co.uk W: grahamschoolofdance.co.uk

Hyperfusion Theatre Co M: 07909 960 490 E: sarah@hyperfusion.co.uk W: hyperfusion.co.uk Pauline Quirk Academy M: 07958 913 456 E: paula.templeman@pqaacademy.com W: pqaacademy.com Pure Rhythm Performing Arts T: 01799 501 579 E: sue@purerhythm.co.uk W: purerhythm.co.uk Saffron Walden Musical Theatre Company M: 07799 628 977 E: swmtcyg@gmail.com W: swmtc.net Stagecoach T: 01799 588 246 E: saffronwalden@stagecoach.co.uk W: stagecoach.co.uk/saffronwalden Sting Performing Arts M: 07903 192 094 E: hello@stingperformingarts.com W: stingperformingarts.com

Music n Choirs, orchestras Cantate Youth Choir E: info@cantate.co.uk W: cantata.co.uk Joyful Noise T: 01799 520 083 E: annecass@btinternet.com

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T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk Saffron Walden Town Band M: 07779 266 853 E: stephthake@gmail.com Sting Choir M: 07484 865 763 E: hello@stingperformingarts.com W: stingperformingarts.com St. Mary’s Church Junior Choir T: 07928 339 310 E: choirsmsw@gmail.com

n Music tutors

Dan Ketteridge (Guitar) M: 07862 278 404 E: fig6@hotmail.com Elizabeth De Vile (piano) All ages. Offers practical exams and

aural test coaching for instrumentalists.

T: 01799 500 111; E: edevile@hotmail.co.uk James Free (sax, flute, guitar) M: 07818 334 592 E: jamesfsax@gmail.com

n Music schools

Kodaly Classes E: info@saffroncym.org W: Kodaly.org.uk Saffron Centre for Young Musicians E: info@saffronmusicschool.com W: saffronmusicschool.com St Marys C of E school T: 01799 523 384 E: info@st-maryscofe.essex.sch.uk W: stmaryssw.org.uk

performing arts 31

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32 performing arts

www.saladdaysmag.uk AWARD WINNING School of Performing Arts

Ages 7 to 18

Parent and child music and dance classes in Saffron Walden and surrounding areas

FREEsses

trial claable avail

Sing Dance Act

Excited to announce Disney’s Little Mermaid Jr coming this Summer

Contact: Sue Raven 07952 993288 or 01799 501579

sue@purerhythm.co.uk

www.purerhythm.co.uk

Fun, friendly and affordable performing arts classes taught by local professional teachers.

Wide range of classes for students ages 3+ years. www.temposperformingarts.co.uk Classes in info@temposperformingarts.co.uk Newport www.tinytempos.co.uk and info@tinytempos.co.uk Saffron Walden Tel: 07956 211909

BOOK ONLINE

We deliver over 10,000 FREE magazines directly into the school books bags of every school in the area above. We include social, community and health hubs.

To been seen advertise now!

Call :- 07900 735566

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T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

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34 pre-school

www.saladdaysmag.uk

Pre-schools

Appletree Pre-School Windhill21 School; Ages: 2-5 Contact: Hayley Lynskey T: 07745 262676/01279 771367

Albury Seedlings Pre-School Albury C of E Primary School Ages: 2 to school age T: 01279 771253 E: admin@albury.herts.sch.uk

Blues Pre-School Nursery Bishop’s Stortford High School Ages: 2-5, Contact; Kim Craythorne T: 01279 755422 E: admissions@bluespreschool.co.uk W: bluespreschool.co.uk

n Albury A A n elite p er forming ar t s company deli vering indust r y p rofessional t raining to student s aged 7-1 6 year s w it h it s own affiliated L A M DA cent re (London Academy of Music and Dramat ic Ar t s) examinat ions.

n Ashdon

Ashdon Childrens Nursery Ages: 3mths-5yrs; Contact: Annette Bel T: 01799 584848 E: info@ashdonchildrensnursery.com W: ashdonchildrensnursery.com

FRE E TRIAL

Forest School sessions in Ashdon E: Sarah@natureoflearning.co.uk W: natureoflearning.co.uk

n Bartlow

IN H A R L OW & SA FFR ON WA L DEN

DANCE

Little Hands Nursery Ages: 0-4; Head: Marion Kell T: 01223 897945 E: lh-bartlow@btconnect.com E VE RY SATUR DAY 1 0AM - 1 PM

S ING ING AC TI NG

(M u sical Th e at re)

(Film & T V )

To T b ook k: C all Lis a on 079 03 1 92 094 or email: lisa@st ingp er formingar t s .com Tamara on 079 0 0 7 35 5 66 or email: t am@st ingp er formingar t s .com

n Birchanger

Birchanger Butterflies Preschool Birchwood; Ages: 2½-5; T: 01279 810800 E: admin@birchangerbutterflies.org.uk

n Bishop’s Stortford

Apple Green Montessori Nursery Ages 2-5 years old T: 07788 913444 E: info@applegreenmontessori.co.uk W: applemontessori.co.uk

Busy Bees Nursery St Michael’s Mead Ages: 0-5, Contact: Mandy Caslake T: 01279 755522 Busy Bees Thorley Park 16 The Thorley Centre Ages: 3 months-5 yrs Contact: Stacy Kersey T: 01279 654830 Doodle Do Day Nursery The Old Church Hall, Portland Road Ages: Babies-5 Contact: Colleen Guiver T: 01279 653318 E: manager@doodledodaynursery.com W: doodledodaynursery.com Grove Cottage (Special needs) 151 London Road. Bishop’s Stortford.

M-F (offers 15hr and 30hr funded places) Ages: Birth-5 Contact: Maria Sims T: 01279 656085 E: nursery@mencapgrovecottage.org High House Montessori Nursery Takeley Rd, Herts CM22 6PL Ages: 0-5, Contact: Vanessa Callan T: 01279 870898 W: highhousenursery.co.uk

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T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk Little Ladybirds All Saints School; Ages: 2-4 Contact: Hayley Lynskey T: 07745 262676/01279 771367 Little Oaks - See page 3 Howe Green House School; Ages: 2-3 Contact: Julie Sellears; T: 01279 657706 E: julie.s@howegreenhouse.essex.sch.uk W: howegreenhousseschool.co.uk Sunflowers Pre-School Ages: 3 & 4 yrs Thorley Hill Primary School Park Lane, CM23 3NH. Manager: Louisa Cowler T: 07752 562206 E: sunflowers.preschool17@gmail.com W: sunflowerspreschool.co.uk Sycamore House Day Nursery Manager: Courtney Skeggs T: 01279 465097; E: manager@ sycamorehousedaynursery.co.uk W: sycamorehousedaynursery.co.uk Thorley Pre-School & Thorley Tree Tots Manager: Jean Palfreman T: 01279 503895; M: 07722 129073 E: admin@thorleypreschool.plus.com W: thorleypreschool.co.uk Thorn Grove Little Acorns Thorn Grove School; Ages: 2-5 Contact: Sam Stedman; T: 01279 653233 E: tglittleacorns@aol.com

n Chrishall

Chrishall Pre-School Manager Mrs Sonia Mckenna T: 01763 838592 E: preschool@chrishall.essex.sch.uk W: chrishall.essex.sch.uk

pre-school 35

n Clavering

n Great Chesterford

n Hatfield Broad Oak

Clavering & Arkesden Preschool Head: Cara Donker; Ages: 2½-5 T: 01799 550380 E: claveringarkesdenpreschool@gmail.com W: claveringarkesdenpreschool.org.uk

Great Chesterford Community Preschool Ages: 2-5 Manager: Debbie Allard; T: 07840 341551 E: admissions@chesterfordspreschool. org.uk

Under 5s Preschool High Street, Hatfield Broad Oak Manager: Sharon; T: 01279 718998

n Farnham

n Great Chishill

Saplings Farnham (Preschool) Term Time: Mon-Fri 09.00-15.00 Contact: Jess Boyten E: admin@saplingsnursery.co.uk W: saplingsfarnham.co.uk

Great Chishill Nursery School Gt Chishill Cricket Pavillion Ages: 2-5 Head: Anita Street; T: 01763 836968 W: chishillnursery.co.uk

Finchingfield Pre-school Ages: 2-5 Manager: Christine Lambert T: 01371 811593; M: 07713 189801 E: finchingfieldpreschool@gmail.com

Flitch Green Montessori Preschool Manager: Carly Gold, T: 01371 823293 E: flitchgreen@mymontessori.org.uk W: flitchgreenpreschool.co.uk

n Finchingfield

n Ford End

Ford End Pre-School Village Hall Prorietor: Joanna Mardell T: 01371 874457 M: 07754 876330 E: joannamardell@yahoo.co.uk W: fordendpreschool.co.uk

n Great Dunmow

Freedom Daycare Nursery Contacts: Joules Abraham & Kath Gibson T: 01371 873663 Maynard Montessori Pre-School Managers: Becky Sadler, T: 01371 856995 E: maynard@mymontessori.org.uk W: maynardmontessori.co.uk

n Great Bardfield

Puffin Preschool Head: Carolin Dodkins T: 07712 858878

Great Bardfield Pre-School Ages: 2 to school age Manager: Kathy King T: 01371 811580; M: 07971 429386 E: KathyKing32@btinternet.com

Wrens Pre-School Quaker Meeting House Proprietor: Joanna Mardell T: 01371 874457; M: 07754 876330 E: joannamardell@yahoo.co.uk W: wrenspreschool.co.uk

n Hempstead

Pips Nursery - see page 37 Boytons Farm, Boytons Lane, Hempstead.

T: 01279 295296 M: 07866 469471 E: pippa@pips-nursery.co.uk M-F Flexible hours Registered child minding setting.

Extension of PIPS Nursery in Strethall.

Ages: 3 months to 3 years.

After school care from 4-9 years.

Holiday club with a variety of activities.

Norland Nurse; NNEB, RSH.

n Henham

Henham & Ugley Nursery School Ages: 3-5; Head: Mrs Kim Hall T: 01279 850213 E: admin@henhamugley.essex.sch.uk W: henhamugley.essex.sch.uk Saplings Nursery- see page 34 Ages: 3 mths-5 yrs Contact: Cheryl Rae; T: 01279 851998 E: admin@saplingsnursery.co.uk W: saplingsnursery.co.uk

n Little Hallingbury

Little Hallingbury Playgroup Village Hall; Ages: 2-rising 5 Contact: Debbie Roberts; T: 01279 726578 E: debbieroberts35@virginmedia.com

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36 pre-school n Much Hadham

Faraway Tree Kindergarten Ages: 2+ Hadham Cross Congregational Ch Hall Manager: Kristie Chesters T: 07488 333820 E: info@farawaytreekindergarten.co.uk W: farawaytreekindergarten.co.uk Mo, Tue, Thur, Fri. 08.30-16.30. All year Much Hadham Pre-School Ages: 2+ -5 years Oudle Lane, Much Hadham SG10 6DQ Contact: Maria; T: 01279 842614 E: muchhadhampreschool@yahoo.co.uk W: muchhadhampreschool.co.uk Monday-Friday 09.00-15.00

n Newport

Olivers Lodge Nursery Ages: 0-4 07.00-18.30; Head: Alex Suffolk T: 01799 540709 E: info@olivers-lodge.co.uK Olivers Lodge Pre-School Ages: 3-4; 09.00-15.00 Head: Alex Suffolk T: 01799 540709 E: info@olivers-lodge.co.uk

n Saffron Walden

Bell Day Nursery; Ages: 0-5 Head: Jenny Rivers/Glenys Goodwin T: 01799 528051 Bright Horizons Crocus Saffron Walden Nursery and Preschool Ages: 3 mth-5 yrs Manager: Anne Hunt T: 01799 522522 E: saffronwalden@brighthorizons.com W: brighthorizons.com.

Meadow Montessori Nursery

www.saladdaysmag.uk Ages: 2-5; Head: Colette Loveday T: 01799 513858 W: montessorimeadows.co.uk Saffron Walden Nursery School Ages: 1 year to school age; T: 01799 522108 Nursery managers: Barbs James & Caroline Clark E: info@saffronwaldennursery.org.uk W: saffronwaldennursery.org.uk Stehen Perse Nursery (Dame Bradbury’s) Ashdon Road, CB10 2AL; Ages: 1-5 T: 01223 454762 E: admissions@stephenperse.com W: stephenperse.com St Mary’s Church Pre-School Ages: 2-5 Head: Faye Jeff; T: 01799 520358 E: smcpreschool@btconnect.com W: stmaryschurchpreschool.co.uk St Thomas More Montessori Ages: 1-5 yrs; Manager: Rachel Salt, Vanessa Thompson T: 01799 523248- ext.3 E: stm@mymontessori.org.uk W: stthomasmoremontessori.co.uk

n Stansted

Bentfield Nursery Ages: 3-5; T: 01279 813626 E: admin@bentfield.essex.sch.uk W: bentfield.essex.sch.uk Rainbow Preschool Ages: 2½-5; Administrator: Gill T: 01279 814242 W: rainbowpreschool-stansted.co.uk

a

Quality childcare and Montessori education for the local community Children welcomed from 2 to 5 years old

Info@applegreenmontessori.co.uk www.applegreenmontessori.co.uk

07788 913444

Apple Green Montessori Preschool Hockerill Sports & Social club Beldams Lane, Bishop Stortford CM23 5LG.

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T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

We take pride in nuturing our children to their full potential

We are a friendly village preschool at the heart of the community, located in a beautiful rural setting, offering education to children aged 2 - 5 years.

Our ethos of open-ended, discovery-based play for children is well executed in the free flow style of sessions which allows children to move between activities as they wish.

Following the EYFS framework, we give every child the opportunity to learn through encouragement, creativity and exploration.

Come and see our 'Nature Space'!

We aim to help your child reach their potential, find their independence and to enjoy their first learning experience whilst preparing them for Primary School.We are hiring – looking for both permanent part-time and flexible cover staff.

Please email admissions@chesterfordspreschool.org.uk for more information and an application form.

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38 toddlers and babies n Monday

Baby College Felsted Memorial Hall. (10am 18m- 36m) (11am 9m -18m) (12pm 0-9m; Infant, toddlers and junior programmes for parents and little ones to enjoy together with activities and learning skills to promote social skills and awareness.

M: 07871 119037 E: tegan@babycollege.co.uk W: www.babycollege.co.uk Sing and Sign Stansted Free Chruch, Stansted Mountfitichet from 9:30am The award - winning baby singing & music classes from 0-26 mths. Songs, props, sensory & fun. M: 07828 316397 E: alexandra@singandsign.co.uk W: bit.ly/singandsignhomepage Toddler Steam Saffron Walden 9:30qm Free STEAM (Science, technology, engineering, art and maths) sessions for babies and toddlers. M: 07708 157326 IG @sandratoddlersteam Boogiewoogies United Reform Church, Saffron Walden Music & Movement classes from 9:30am M: 07837 176823 E: sarah@boogiewoogies.co.uk W: www.boogiewoogies.co.uk

n Tuesday

Baby Massage with Lauren Saffron Walden Town Hall. 10:15-11:15 Learn to massage your baby and enjoy time with your little one!

M: 07840 544709 E: babymassagewithlauren@gmail.com W: www.babymassagewithlauren.co.uk

(term time only except where stated)

Sweaty Mama Golden Acre community centre, Saffron Walden 11am. A specialist group for pre natal and post natal women to enjoy activities for mind and body with baby or bump. M: 07834 530296 E: claireneville@sweatymama.com W: www.sweatymama.com Boogiewoogies Margret Street Hall, Thaxted. From 9:30am. Unique music and movement classes for babies and pre-school aged children. M: 07837 176823 E: sarah@boogiewoogies.co.uk W: www.boogiewoogies.co.uk Tiny Tempos St Barnabas Centre, Thorley 10:45am11:30am. Music and movement classes suitable from birth. M: 07956 211909 E: info@tinytempos.co.uk W: www.tinytempos.co.uk Baby Sensory Flitch Green Community Centre, Dunmow.

From 9:30am. All classes are structured to introduce ideas of play to aid and enhance babies’ precious early learning through play. M: 07703 79027 W: braintree@babysensory.co.uk Saffron Walden Library Baby and story time. 9:30am -10am Baby time T: 0345 6037628 Baby and story time. 10:30am - 11am Story time for children aged 2 + T: 0345 603 7628 Sing and Sign The Hub Church, Bishops Stortford from 9:30am The award - winning baby singing & music classes from 0-26 mths.

Songs, props, sensory & fun.

M: 07828 316397 E: alexandra@singandsign.co.uk W: bit.ly/singandsignhomepage

n Wednesday

Baby Massage with Lauren Parsonage Community Hall, Bishops Stortford. 10:45-11:45. Learn to massage your baby and enjoy time with your little one! M: 07840 544709 E: babymassagewithlauren@gmail.com W: www.babymassagewithlauren.co.uk Hartbeeps – Baby Beeps Stansted Free Church Hall. 11:15am Interactive baby and toddler classes featuring: music, puppets, laughter and fun. M: 07779 100053 E: Sharon.g@hartbeeps.com W: www.hartbeeps.com/bishopsstortford-harlow-andsurrounds The Musical Box Clavering Village Hall; 11.30-12.30 Ages 0-5; Book your place by text M: 07731 990484 E: themusicalbox.elmdon@gmail.com Tiny Tempos Golden Acre Community Centre, Saffron Walden. 11:15-11:45. Tiny Tutus toddler ballet classes for parent and child.

Suitable from 18months old.

M: 07956 211909 E: info@tinytempos.co.uk W: www.tinytempos.co.uk Bible Group Saffron Walden 10am Free and friendly Bible group sessions for Families with young children. M: 07708 157326 IG: @Sandratoddlersteam

www.saladdaysmag.uk Boogiewoogies United Reform Church, Saffron Walden from 9:30am. Unique music and movement classes for babies and preschool aged children. M: 07837 176823 E: sarah@boogiewoogies.co.uk W: www.boogiewoogies.co.uk

n Thursday

Sweaty Mama Standon Village Hall 10:30am. A specialist group for pre natal and post natal women to enjoy activities for mind and body with baby or bump.

M: 07834 530296 E: claireneville@sweatymama.com W: www.sweatymama.com Jo Jingles Sewards End Village Hall from 9:30am Jo Jingles offers fun, interactive music, singing and movement classes for babies and pre-school children. T: 01440 730039 E: westsuffolk@jojingles.co.uk W: www.jojingles.com The Musical Box Clavering Village Hall; 11.30-12.30 Ages 0-5; Book your place by text M: 07731 990484 E: themusicalbox.elmdon@gmail.com Tiny Tempos Baptist Church, Saffron Walden 10:45 – 11:30. Music and movement classes suitable from birth.

M: 07956 211909 E: info@tinytempos.co.uk W: www.tinytempos.co.uk Baby Gymnastics Twyford Industrial Estate, Bishops Stortford 9:15am. This 45 minute class is aimed to stimulate learning through

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T: 0790 01763073 838687 5566E:E:info@saladdaysmag.uk hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk sensory using hand apparatus and encourage talking and singing with songs and play. M: 07808 808815 E: enquiries@stortfordgymnastics.com W: www.stortfordgymnastics.com Kids Lingo Saffron Walden, Dunmow and Bishops Stortford. From 10am. In our award winning classes the aim is to bring the language to life through songs, games, stories and drama. M: 07926 007797 E: jessicalp@kidslingo.co.uk W: www.kidslingo.co.uk Sing and Sign The Hub Church, Bishops Stortfordfrom 9:30am The award - winning baby singing & music classes from 0-26 mths.

Songs, props, sensory & fun.

M: 07828 316397 E: alexandra@singandsign.co.uk W: bit.ly/singandsignhomepage

n Friday

Hartbeeps Birchanger Church Hall from 10am Interactive baby and toddler classes featuring: music, puppets, laughter and fun. M: 07779 100053 E: Sharon.g@hartbeeps.com W: www.hartbeeps.com/bishopsstortford-harlow-andsurrounds Sweaty Mama Personage Lane Community Hall, Bishops Stortford 10:30am. A specialist group for pre natal and post natal women to enjoy activities for mind and body with baby or bump. M: 07834 530296 E: claireneville@sweatymama.com W: www.sweatymama.com

(term time only m except where stated)

Tiny Tempos Baptist Church, Saffron Walden 9:4010:45 & 10:45-11:30. Music and movement classes suitable from birth.

M: 07956 211909 E: info@tinytempos.co.uk W: www.tinytempos.co.uk Baby Sensory Flitch Green Community Centre, Dunmow.

From 9:30am. All classes are structured to introduce ideas of play to aid and enhance babies’ precious early learning through play. M: 07703 790273 W: braintree@babysensory.co.uk Yoga Todds Town Hall, Market Street, Saffron Walden 10:30am.Toddlers Yoga from walking to approx. six years. M: 07977 995204 E: flowyogakids@gmail.com W: www,bookwhen.com/yogatodds Boogiewoogies United Reform Church, Saffron Walden Music & Movement classes from 9:30am M: 07837 176823 E: sarah@boogiewoogies.co.uk W: www.boogiewoogies.co.uk

toddlers and babies 39

The Musical Box for young children and babies

The origin Sign singing Nursery Rhymes, m u sic g al Marches and Instruments ytime and s ta r t e r o u p , or St to di Dances galore refreshments al 1993 n rm play and fo in , Piano ed ax el explore R atmosphere Accompaniment

Elmdon and Clavering

Tel: Crista 07731 990484 or Bridget 01763 838779 Email: themusicalbox.elmdon@gmail.com

n Saturday

Baby Ballers Herts & Essex Sports Centre, Bishops Stortford. From 9:15am. Baby Football from toddlers aged from 16mths to 5 years old. M: 07596 345275 E: b.stortford@babyballers.com W: www.babyballersbishopsstortford.class4kids.co.uk

Music and Movement classes for Babies - Preschoolers in Saffron Walden Please visit www.boogiewoogies.co.uk for details of upcoming blocks of classes and to book your space Or contact Sarah Jones directly for more info Email: sarah@boogiewoogies.co.uk

Tel: 07837 176823

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40 antenatal & postnatal How rising inflation hits low-income households the hardest Increased energy costs, rising inflation and the removal of the £20 Universal Credit uplift means that many households are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet, and typically, those on the lowest incomes are being hit the hardest - frontline advisers at Uttlesford Citizens Advice are already supporting increasing numbers of people who can’t afford rent, food or heating.

In a recent thread on twitter, Jack Monroe, a food writer and activist known for campaigning on poverty issues, highlighted the fact that the use of the consumer price index and retail price index to measure rising household bills ‘grossly underestimates the true cost-ofliving crisis’. Using data she has collected, she demonstrates that the price of the

cheapest bag of pasta in Asda has risen by 141% and the cheapest rice by 344% in the last year alone. “A few years ago,” she writes, “there were more than 400 products in the ‘Smart Price’ range; today there are 87 and counting down”. To see the full twitter thread, go to https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/148 3778776697909252.html Kate Robson, CEO at Uttlesford Citizens Advice, said: “Over the last two years, we have seen a steep rise in the number of people who have come to us for advice relating to budgeting or help to pay essential bills. If you are struggling, please remember you are not alone. Our advisers can help by making sure you are receiving all the benefits you are entitled to and working with you to maximise your income; they can also help you access other support, including emergency financial support, if needed.

You can contact Uttlesford Citizens Advice on 01799 618840 or email help@uttlesfordca.org.uk You can also find advice and information online at www.citizensadvice.org.uk To make a donation to Uttlesford Citizens Advice, go to www.uttlesfordca.org.uk

www.saladdaysmag.uk

Born to Birth.

Hypnobirthing and caesarean section classes. T: 07828 866198 E: ellie@borntobirthcompany.com W: www.borntobirthcompany.com

Accuro Supporting young people with disability in West Essex T :01279 870297 W: www.accuro.org.uk

Children’s Centres

Herts Family Centres T: 0300 123 7572 W: www.hertsfamilycentres.org

Conkers Children’s Centre Cathodoeon Centre, Linton T: 07768 008919

Antenatal and postnatal

Little Goslings Family Hub North Street, Great Dunmow T: 0300 2470122

Mummy MOT A woman’s health check with physio Contact: Fiona, M: 07757 609091 E: hello@fionaolearlyphysio.co.uk W: www.fionaolearlyphysio.co.u

Spangles family Hub Lower Street, Stansted T: 0300 2470122

Hypnobirthing Birth Easy with Georgia Bishop’s Stordford T: 07919 158070 E: georgia@birtheasy.co.uk W: www.birtheasywithgeorgia.co.uk

Fairycroft Children’s Centre T: 01799 521602 W: www.essexcentre.info/Fairycroft

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Saffron Walden Singing, dancing and acting classes for 5 - 16 year-olds

01799 588246 stagecoach.co.uk/saffronwalden Chesterfords Community Centre, CB10 1NS

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals.

Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

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