SALAD DAYS - SUMMER ISSUE

Summer 2024 ISSUE 102

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

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the vibrant pages of the summer edition of Salad Days magazine! Salad Days is more than just a magazine; it’s a trusted companion for parents, families, and caregivers seeking to make the most of the summer months.

This issue is brimming with insights, tips, and stories curated to enhance your family’s summer experience. From educational resources to keep young minds engaged during the break, to exciting club initiatives fostering a sense of community spirit, family events within the community and activity providers releasing workshop / camp dates for the summer months. We’ve handpicked a variety of content to cater to your diverse interests and needs.

As we embark on this seasonal journey together, let’s embrace the spirit of curiosity, discovery, and connection that defines Salad Days. We invite you to immerse yourself in the colourful tapestry of our community, where every page is an invitation to explore, learn, and create cherished memories with your loved ones.

Here’s to a season filled with laughter, learning, and cherished memories that will last a lifetime! Have a wonderful summer!

Tam & Lisa x

Contents

Summer 2024

Our cover photo was taken by local photographer Erin May Photography info@erinmay.co.uk www.erinmay.co.uk

Copy Date for Autumn issue 1st August 2024

Advertisers:

BOOK NOW to feature in our next issue. Contact Lisa or Tam on 0790 073 5566 or hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

© Lisa Cureton & Tamara Lee Smart 2023

Printed by Indigo Ross, Spectrum House, Woodhall Business Park, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 1WH. saladdays.info saladdaysmag saladdaysmag

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: Chanel Holmes @designedby_chanel

2 education

Keeping children engaged in their local community

James McCaughran, Head Teacher,

Dame Bradbury’s Junior School

Located in the heart of Saffron Walden, Dame Bradbury’s Junior School is a vibrant place where we have worked hard to nurture a happy and safe environment for pupil’s learning. This year, our pupils have been busier than ever in and around our town as they learn in and engage with our local community, which helps to ensure that life outside the classroom remains busy and exciting.

From sports to volunteering, I firmly believe that a well-rounded education means involving pupils with the broader community beyond the school gates. Our pupils get out and about at every opportunity, for learning and enrichment opportunities.

Within our historic school grounds, children have access to engaging activities and outdoor learning opportunities in our Forest Schools. As part of our sustainability learning week, we had an outdoor learning session led by a Forest School Leader and master gardener from nearby Bridge End Gardens, who helped the children build outdoor furniture and design willow huts and mud sculptures whilst exploring different plants and species in our gardens and forest areas on site. Forest School is integral to our curriculum, and outdoor experiences help our pupils to learn about and feel connected to the natural environment, especially with the wonderful countryside on our doorstep.

This year, our Year 5 and 6 pupils have also been involved in the Saffron Walden Clean Air Project, recording and analysing the air quality at various locations around Saffron Walden in partnership with Uttlesford Council. Pupils were able to practise their environmental science investigation skills by studying the importance of clean air and minimising pollution. Initiatives like this ensure that our pupils understand the impact of all our actions on their community and, as many have been cycling as part of their bikeability awareness, this has given them an extra drive and enthusiasm, ready to make their positive mark on the world.

At Dame Bradbury’s School, we want to make sure that every child has the support and encouragement to be everything that he or she can be, we welcome parents and children to come and visit the school, to meet the Head Teacher on a bespoke guided tour and to see how we work. You can book a visit by emailing: Kate Shriever, Dame Bradbury’s admissions on db-admissions@stephenperse.com

Gretton School

Following a visit from Ofsted in February 2024, we are delighted to announce that Gretton School has received an ‘Outstanding’ grading in all areas. We are thrilled that Ofsted have recognised the school’s provision with the highest possible grading, observing the ‘life changing’ experience of our learners.

Gretton School welcomes autistic children and young people aged from 5 - 19 years old, as weekly boarders or day students. We offer an accepting and inclusive environment, where Autistic learners come to repair damage caused through their educational journey so far, get on course for their desired future, and achieve all they can.

If you are interested in applying to Gretton, please view our admission page on our website, where you can see our eligibility criteria and book onto an Open Afternoon Tour: www.grettonschool.com. Attending one of our Open Afternoon Tours is a great opportunity to have a look around Gretton School on a typical school day. Following a visit from Ofsted in February 2024, we are delighted to announce that Gretton School has received an ‘Outstanding’ grading in all areas. We are thrilled that Ofsted have recognised the school’s provision with the highest possible grading, observing the ‘life changing’ experience of our learners.

Gretton School welcomes autistic children and young people aged from 5 - 19 years old, as weekly boarders or day students. We offer an accepting and inclusive environment, where Autistic learners come to repair damage caused through their educational journey so far, get on course for their desired future, and achieve all they can.

If you are interested in applying to Gretton, please view our admission page on our website, where you can see our eligibility criteria and book onto an Open Afternoon Tour: www.grettonschool.com. Attending one of our Open Afternoon Tours is a great opportunity to have a look around Gretton School on a typical school day.

Does your child have special educational needs?

Here SEN specialist and Legal Director at Tees Law, Polly Kerr answers some of your most common questions surrounding SEN and education.

What does Special Educational Needs mean?

Special Educational Needs (SEN) is when a child has learning difficulties or a disability that makes learning harder for them, compared to other children of a similar age. Not all children with disabilities have SEN; SEN is specifically about the extent to which the child can engage in education services. Someone with SEN may have difficulty with reading and writing, ability to understand things, behaviour, ability to socialise, concentration and sensitivity to external stimuli e.g. noise.

Can a school refuse entry to a child with SEN?

No, a school cannot refuse a child because they have SEN or a disability if your child would have otherwise qualified for a place under the school’s admissions criteria. The School Admissions Code of Practice states that all young people and children with SEN must be treated fairly. The only grounds on which a mainstream school can refuse a child with SEN is where their needs or disabilities would interfere with the education of other children. If a school is named in Section 1 of a child’s EHCP, the school must admit that child.

Do schools get extra funding for children with SEN?

Schools are provided with additional funding for children with SEN to help meet their needs, which is known as their delegated budget. This roughly equates to up to £6,000 from their school per academic year.

Is it a legal requirement to have a SENco?

All mainstream schools are required to have a SENco (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) by law. To be a SENco in a mainstream school you must be qualified as a teacher and achieve a National award in Special Educational Needs Coordination within 3 years of taking up the SENco post. There is no requirement to have a SENco in a special school, however, they may choose to employ someone to carry out the work a SENco would do.

We’re here to help

You’ll find our team of education lawyers friendly and easy to talk to and we understand the ins-and-outs of education law.  Our education law team is based in:

Saint Nicholas School – Built for Discovery

Saint Nicholas School is a co-educational independent day school, set within 15 acres of beautiful grounds in Old Harlow, Essex. We welcome children aged from 3 months – 16 years.

Our pupils are at the heart of everything we do, and it is our privilege to guide them on a tailored journey to nurture their curiosity, discover their talents and unlock their true potential. Saint Nicholas School never stops driving forward and developing so all our pupils receive a rich, engaging and challenging education that inspires them to raise their sights and expectations, and ‘Strive to Better’.

While the academic core skills are at the heart of the school, Saint Nicholas School is dedicated to teaching pupils how to learn, instilling key learning skills, such as initiative, resilience, collaboration, teamwork and independent thinking. To achieve this goal, we have a committed and dedicated staff who know the pupils extremely well and who tailor the journey of each pupil, so they can achieve to their own best, preparing them fully for the next phase of their lives.

At Saint Nicholas we celebrate individuality, and foster a learning environment where every pupil’s unique talents and aspirations are nurtured to flourish. Our pupils benefit from memorable experiences that contribute to their personal growth and development. Alongside traditional classroom-based lessons, our pupils enjoy the power of outdoor learning to inspire curiosity, encourage resilience, and deepen their connection to the natural world.  Pupils have access to our extensive grounds and enjoy state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, libraries, and a theatre, fostering a dynamic learning environment.

In essence, Saint Nicholas School is more than just an educational institution; it’s a nurturing community where pupils are empowered to become confident, compassionate, and curious lifelong learners. As we continue to evolve and innovate, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing a transformative educational experience that prepares pupils not only for academic success but also for a meaningful and purposeful life beyond school.

To book a personal tour or discuss your child’s future education, please contact Mrs Julia Bradley, Admissions Secretary, on 01279 429910 ext 1, or by emailing admissions@saintnicholasschool.net.

Our next Open Morning takes place on Saturday 5th October. The event is an informal one and you and your family are welcome to arrive at any time between 10am – 12noon. A range of interesting and fun activities and taster lessons will be taking place throughout the school, and senior pupils will be conducting guided tours of the school’s wonderful facilities and grounds.

To book your place please visit https://www.saintnicholasschool.net/admissions/open-events-tours.

We look forward to welcoming you.

SAINT NICHOLAS

Bum or Face? Taking a closer look at Nature

Hopefully, Summer means Being Outdoors, so here’s a selection of picture books to intrigue children into exploring the natural world on their doorstep and beyond.

Who could resist Bum or Face? Revenge of the Bums by Kari Lavelle?

The inspiration for this book is as delightful and astonishing as the contents. The author read about farmers in Botswana who paint faces on the behinds of their cattle to scare away lions. Not only does this help the cattle but it protects the lions from being killed by angry farmers. When she read the article, the author wondered, ‘Do lions have to ask themselves ‘bum or face’ when they are approaching the cattle?’. And so, the book was born.

On each page, there’s a photograph of part of an animal. Which end of the animal is it? Turn over the page and find out. Then learn some fascinating facts about the creature in question. Having read the book three times, I still got some of the bums and faces wrong. Highly entertaining for adults and children alike.

More lyrical is Wild Child: a Journey Through Nature by Dara McAnulty, an award-winning writer and naturalist, and illustrated by Barry Falls. ‘Let me give you new windows to see the world through’ begins Dara, and what follows is a series of explorations in poetry, factual passages, and craft projects, through which children can engage with the world around them. An example is the section on birds. First, mesmerising imagery: ‘Alighting from the sky like fire. A twitching crown of ruby, pearl and darkest black’. As we puzzle the riddles, the author gives us extraordinary facts about the birds he writes about – for example that wrens often form communal roosts in winter, like Emperor penguins, huddling together for warmth (a record 63 wrens in one birdbox!) – and then provides instructions for making a bird feeder from a cardboard roll, two sticks, string, lard, and seeds. With sections on woodland, uplands, rivers, and gardens, this is a richly rewarding journey through nature to inspire children both to explore, and to deeply appreciate, the world.

The Promise by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Laura Carlin, is unusual. It begins in a dark place, a city, where ‘nothing grew’ and ‘everything was broken’. As are the people who live there, including the narrator whose ‘heart was as shrivelled as the dead trees in the park’. She mugs an old woman and steals her bag. The old woman fights back, clinging on to the bag until she says, ‘if you promise to plant them, I’ll let go’. The narrator has no idea what she means but agrees, as she’s greedy for the money and food she thinks is in the bag. She runs off with it - and discovers the bag is filled with acorns. As she fulfils her promise, the dark, grey, grim illustrations gradually fill with colour and light and life.

For younger children, How to Find a Rainbow by Alom Shaha, illustrated by Sarthak Sinha is a charming way to explore the magic of rainbows. Reena hates dull dark rainy days. Rekha loves the how rain makes the earth smell. When she sees a rainbow, she rushes to find her sister, so she can come outside and paint it. By the time Reena has packed her paints and found an umbrella, the rainbow has vanished. Rekha is so disappointed. But then there’s another shower, and the rainbow reappears. The sisters are intrigued. In the course of the story, they work out what makes a rainbow and what order its colours are in. At the end, there’s a handy experiment to test their theory. A delightful introduction to the science and art of, but mostly the magic of, nature.

EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE | CHARACTER FORMATION | SPIRITUAL INSIGHT

AVANTI MEADOWS AVANTI BROOK

Two growing schools in Bishop’s Stortford

Please accept our invitation to you to visit Avanti Meadows and Brook Primary Schools. Tour the schools and meet the Avanti family of sta .

Spacious classrooms and outdoor spaces Holistic and nurturing learning environment

Specialised and challenging curriculum Yoga and mindfulness lessons

“From the very start, pupils develop the deep consideration for others, self-reflection and kind relationships that are at the heart of this school.”

Avanti Meadows Ofsted Inspection Report March 2024

Avanti Meadows, Farnham Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 1FQ • Avanti Brook Primary School, Newland Avenue, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 2UW

12 leisure and features

Alix’s Sweet Treats

As we approach June, I can’t quite believe we are nearing the end of another school year. The children have worked hard, learnt new skills, developed new or existing friendships and probably overcome some difficulties, one way or another. I’m sure there are many reasons to be proud of their achievements. Do you reward them throughout the year, do you acknowledge the small stuff (that is not small to them)?

Let me help with that, a saying I often use is, “Say it with Chocolate”!

Will your little ones be anxious to start a new school or get to know a new teacher? Then give them a well needed boost with my ‘back to school’ range….

Let’s not forgot those teachers and TA’s that spend hours with our children each day, not only teaching, but supporting, guiding and nurturing them. Making them smile daily. They surely need to be rewarded and recognised. The alternative would be home schooling and I’m sure the majority of us would be cowering away at the thought of it, I know I wouldn’t have the patience for it, or any wine left in the fridge at the end of the day, let alone week!! I offer a range of ‘Thank You Gifts’ for teachers, support staff and office staff from individual choco-pops to gift boxes. Most items can be personalised, if orders are in early enough.

Here’s just a few ideas, but if you have any requests or a special occasion coming up, please do not hesitate to get in touch and we can discuss your requirements.

I offer a range of chocolate treats and gifts for every budget.

Hatter’s Farm Confetti Flower Fields

The stunning Flower Fields at Hatter’s Farm are back this summer! You may have heard of the pumpkin picking extravaganza at Hatter’s, but this summer the family run farm will burst in to colour with tens of thousands of flowers blooming in mid to late July. Meander your way through the mesmerising flowers ranging from the brightest pink to the deepest purple. Capture your perfect family pictures amongst nature or at one of the amazing photo opportunities (including the ginormous welly boot!).

As well as the amazing flowers, there is plenty of other fun to be had! Enjoy a lovely coffee and some hot food or roast a marshmallow at one of the firepits. Play on the infamous Bale Mountain and Hay Bale Maze or complete the massive Maize Maze!

To top it off, you can buy some stunning prepicked flowers and homemade confetti produced at the farm!

14 leisure and features

Take a look at all the fun crafting events taking place at South Mill Arts!

Bishop’s Stortford Museum explores the fascinating history of the town and surrounding area. With our mix of family friendly local history displays, holiday activities and themed walks and talks throughout the year, we have something to offer the whole family!

Alongside our selection of activities we will also be hosting FREE Storytime sessions. Come along and enjoy an enthralling story plus some fun colouring and craft!

Free to join | 10.30am | Ages 2.5 - 5

Tues 7th May, Tues 4th Jun, Tues 2nd Jul, Tues 6th Aug.

Please note: All children must be accompanied by an adult when attending our Museum activities.

Mini Maypoles and Streamers

Tue 28th, Wed 29th & Thu 30th May

Tues 30th, Wed 31st Jul & Thu 1st Aug

Tues 6th, Wed 7th & Thu 8th Aug

Bishop’s Stortford Museum

Kids Crafts

Tues 13th, Wed 14th & Thu 15th Aug

All Kids Craft events: Drop in between 10am - 2pm £1 per child | Ages 4+

Marionette

Glove Puppets

Finger and Peg Puppets

“A STELLAR AND EXPERIENCED CAST, BREATHTAKING SET DESIGN, ASTONISHING VOACLS... LAUGH OUT LOUD”

MUM’S GUIDE TO HERTFORD, CINDERELLA 2023

From the company who brought you South Mill Arts’ previous Pantomines ‘Cinderella’ (2023) and ‘Jack & The Beanstalk’ (2022) presents...Once Upon A Time!

Starring David Ribi from kids TV show “Milkshake!”

Join the magical Storykeepers on an exciting adventure through the realm of fantasy. Featuring some of the most beloved fairytales of all time; including Aladdin, Snow White, Red Riding Hood and many more. The Storykeepers invite you on a madcap journey of music, dance and audience participation.

Join them, as they hurtle through the pages of Once Upon a Time, to save the world’s stories!

Tickets

Dates £15

Suitable for 4+ Thu 8 August Fri 9 August Sat 10 August Sun 11 August 2.30pm 11.00am 4.00pm 11.00am 3.00pm 7.15pm

16 leisure and features

The Dugout Essex

The Dugout Essex was formed to compliment the excellent facilities at Fyfield Sports Academy

The objective is to offer well cooked food and value for money pricesWhether you are attending training session, playing a match or supporting someone we have a number of great food option.

If your children are playing on one of the academy’s we offer a great space for food before or after training and comfort to sit down and complete any homework

With the club house having an excellent bar we want to create a great social hub- few drinks, try the fantastic pizzas and if you have children they can play outside in a very safe environment

Why not come relax in the bar over a pizza or order one for take-away

With the Euros in June we believe it’s the ideal family place to come and watch the games live on a number of Large TV’s

We will be expanding our menu so follow us on Instagram Thedugoutessex

Hello Summer!

Let’s go swimming....

SAS swimming have been running

Children’s swimming lesson for nearly 25 years and know the importance of learning to swim.

Learning to swim should be paramount for every child. The earlier the child can start to get use to the water the better. Swimming is the perfect exercise for all ages, but most importantly, it is a lifesaving skill.

Children will always be fascinated by water without knowing the potential dangers. We believe every child should be given the opportunity to learn and enjoy swimming. With the holiday season fast approaching and so much fun to be had with family and friends it’s a perfect time to consider lessons. National Statistics for drowning are not good and could easily be improved upon.

SUMMER CRASH COURSE

@LINTON GRANTA

WK 19th-23rd August

30mins each day between 9-11am £65 per child only 5 children per class.

BOOK NOW

Email sasswimmingcambridge@gmail.com

If you are interested in our Childrens lessons at either Linton or Fulbourn we run small groups from the age of 4 yrs. SAS Swimming a great starting block for learning a skill for life.

For further information please contact Steve on 01799 501293 or 07810 890909 please leave a message.

sasswimmingcambridge@googlemail.com http//www.sas-swimming.co.uk

WE CAN SLOW SHORT-SIGHTEDNESS SPORTS VISION PROTECTION

Myopia, or short-sightedness, is a common visual problem effecting roughly a third of the UK population, resulting in blurred distance vision.

DH Thomas stock a wide range of sports protective equipment for children, for anything from squash to swimming, and everything in between.

Myopia management uses specifically designed spectacle or contact lenses to slow the rate at which myopia develops. It is important as it may reduce the risk of vision threatening complications, associated with high myopia, later in life. New myopia management products are being brought to market regularly and here, at DH Thomas, we have access to them all, as they become available.

Contact DH Thomas today to enquire about our services.

Saffron Walden Practice: 01799 525957 saffronwalden@dhthomas.co.uk

Cambridge Practice:

01223 245222 cambridge@dhthomas.co.uk

VISUAL STRESS

Visual stress, or Meares-Irlen Syndrome, can cause visual distortions & discomfort when attempting to read. Our qualified opticians can assess whether specific coloured overlays will relieve these symptoms. We are also able to use specialist equipment to determine the necessary spectacle tint, as a more precise and convenient option.

24 performing arts

Performing arts

Dance

JCL School of Dance

T: 07753 607 523

E: julialast8@gmil.com

W: jclschooldance.webden.co.uk

KBD Dance

T: 07305 113 187

E: katie@kbddance.com

W: kbddance.co.uk

Kate Plummer School of Dance

T: 07832 212 593

E: kateplum@hotmail.co.uk

Tempos Performing Arts

T: 07956 211 909

E: info@temposperformingarts.co.uk

W: temposperformingarts.co.uk

Tracey Walker School of Dance

T: 07773 062 338

E: doancecrazy.tracey1@gmail.com

W: traceywalkerschoolofdance.co.uk

Buzzy Bees Sting Performing Arts

T: 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

T: 07909 960 490

E: sarah@hyperfusion.co.uk

W: hyperfusion.co.uk

Pauline Quirk Academy

T: 07958 913 456

Drama Theatre Schools

Drama Wise

T: 01223 832 288

E: frances.wyse@btinternet.com

W: dramaclasses.biz

Perform Bishops Stortford

T: 02072 559 120

E: performforschools@perform.org.uk

W: perform.org.uk

Stortford Performers

T: 07949 029 967

E: emmacremnitz@gmail.com

W: stortfordperformers.com

E: paula.templeman@pqaacademy.com

W: pqaacademy.com

Pure Rhythm Performing Arts

T: 07952 993288

E: sue@purerhythm.co.uk

W: purerhythm.co.uk

Saffron Walden Musical Theatre Company

T: 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

T: 07903 192 094

E: hello@stingperformingarts.com

W: stingperformingarts.com

Music

Cantate Youth Choir

E: info@cantate.co.uk

W: www.cantate.co.uk

Joyful Noise

T: 01799 520 083

E: annecass@btinternet.com

Kodaly Classes

E: info@saffroncym.org

W: Kodaly.org.uk

Saffron Centre For Young Musicians

E: kllewellyn@cym.org.uk

W: saffroncym.org

Saffron Walden Town Band

T: 07779 266 853

E: stephthake@gmail.com

Sting Choir

T: 07484 865 763

E: hello@stingperformingarts.com

W: stingperformingarts.com

St Marys C of E School

T: 01799 523 384

E: info@st-maryscofe.essex.sch.uk

W: stmaryssw.org.uk

Music tutors

Dan Ketteridge (Guitar)

M: 07862 278 404

E: fig6@hotmail.com

Elizabeth De Vile (Piano)

T: 01799 500 111

E: edevile@hotmail.co.uk

James Free (sax, flute, guitar)

M: 07818 334 592

E: jamesfsax@gmail.com

28 pre-school

Pre-Schools

Ashdon

Ashdon Childrens Nursery

T: 01799 584 848

E: ashdonchildrensnursery@outlook.com

W: ashdonchildrensnursery.co.uk

Barlow

Little Hands Nursery

T: 01223 897 945

E: lh-bartlow@btconnect.com

W: littlehands.co.uk

Birchanger

Birchanger Butterflies Preschool

T: 01279 810 800

E: admin@birchangerbutterflies.org.uk

W: birchangerbutterflies.org.uk

Bishop’s Stortford

Apple Green Montessori Preschool

T: 07788 913 444

E: info@applegreenmontessori.co.uk

W: applegreenmontessori.co.uk

Blues Preschool Nursery

T: 01279 755 422

E: admin@bluespreschool.co.uk

W: bluespreschool.co.uk

Busy Bees - St Michael’s Mead

T: 01279 755 522

W: busybeeschildcare.co.uk

Busy Bees - Thorley Park

T: 01279 654 830

W: busybeeschildcare.co.uk

Doodledo Day Nursery

T: 01279 653 318

E: manager@doodledodaynursery.com

W: doodledodaynursery.com

Early Birds, Night Owls, Little Ladybirds & Appletree Preschool

T: 01279 771 367

E: info@earlybirdandnightowlsclub.co.uk

W: earlybirdandnightowlsclub.co.uk

Little Oaks

T: 01279 657 706

E: schooloffice@howegreenhouse.org

W: howegreenhouse.org

Sunflowers Pre-School

T: 07752 562 206

E: sunflowers.preschool17@gmail.com

W: sunflowerspreschool.co.uk

Sycamore House Day Nursery

T: 01279 465 097

E: familycareteam@allaboutchildren.co.uk

W: allaboutchildren.co.uk

Thorley Pre-School

T: 01279 503 895

E: admin@thorleypreschool.co.uk

W: thorleypreschool.co.uk

Thorn Groves Little Acorns

T: 01279 653 233

E: tglittleacorns@aol.com

Chrishall

Chrishall Pre-School

T: 01763 793 524

E: preschool@chrishall.essex.sch.uk

W: chrishall.essex.sch.uk

Clavering

lavering & Arkesden Preschool

T: 01799 550 380

E: claveringarkesdenassistant@outlook.com

W: claveringarkesdenpreschool.co.uk

Dunmow

Freedom Day Care Nursery & Pre-School

T: 01371 873 663

E: info@freedomdaycarenursery.co.uk

W: freedomdaycarenursery.co.uk

Little Dunmow’s Pre-School

T: 01376 339 590

E: admin@ittledunmowspreschool.co.uk

W: littledunmowspreschool.co.uk

Maynard Montessori

T: 01371 856 995

E: maynardmymontessori.org.uk

W: maynardmontessori.co.uk

Puffin preschool

T: 07712 858 878

E: puffinpreschool@hotmail.com

W: puffinpreschool.com

St Mary’s Church Nursery

T: 07957 596 303

E: smchurchnursery@gmail.com

W: stmarysnurserydunmow.co.uk

Wrens Pre-School

T: 07754 876 330

E: joannamardell@yahoo.co.uk

W: wrenspreschool.co.uk

Ford End

Ford End Pre School

T: 07754 876 330

E: joannamardell@yahoo.co.uk

W: fordendtreschool.co.uk

Great Bardfield

Great Bardfield Pre School

T: 01371 811 580

E: kathyking32@btinternet.com

W: greatbardfieldpreschool.com

Bardfield Montessori Day Nursery

T: 01371 811 088

E: info@bardfieldmontessori.co.uk

W: bardfieldmontessori.co.uk

Great Chesterford

Great Chesterford Community Pre-School

T: 07840 341 551

E: admissions@chesterfordspreschool.org.uk

W: chesterfordspreschool.org.uk

Saffron Walden

Saffron Walden Crocus Early Years Centre

T: 0333 920 7674

E: saffronwaldenbrighthorizons.co.uk

W: brighthorizons.co.uk

Saffron Walden Nursery School

T: 01799 522 108

E: info@saffronwaldennursery.org.uk

W: saffronwaldennursery.org.uk

Stephen Perse Nursery

T: 01233 454 762

E: admissions@stephenperse.com

W: stephenpersenurseries.com

St Thomas More Montessori

T: 01371 831 902

E: sarah@mymontessori.org.uk

W: stthomasmoremontessori.co.uk

Takeley

High House Day Nursery

T: 01279 870 898

E: manager@highhousenursery.com

W: highhousenursery.com

Saplings Nursery

T: 01279 851 998

W: saplingsnursery.co.uk

Olivers Lodge

T: 01799 540 709

E: info@olivers-lodge.co.uk

W: olivers-lodge.co.uk

Maynard Montessori

T: 01371 831 902

E: office@mymontessori.org.uk

W: maynardmontessori.co.uk

The Barn Nursery and Barn kids

T: 01371 831 262

E: info@thebarnnursery.co.uk

W: thebarnnursey.co.uk

The Windmill Preschool

T: 01371 831 457

E: windmillpreschoolthaxted@gmail.com

W: windmillpreschoolthaxted.co.uk

Rocking Horse Nursery

SAINT NICHOLAS

30 pre-school

You can book your place by visiting: www.bookwhen.com/

Timetable From January 2024

Buffy Playbus

The Big Bus For Little People

Thaxted

Road (CM6 2LP)

9.15am-10.30am

3GU) 9.30am-10.45am

2NQ) 11.15am-12.30pm

1.30pm-3pm

c e C

s s e s boys & girls, 6 months to 5 years Tappy Toes was designed to really get little ones moving. It’s an active, energetic dance class focusing on:

Toddlers and babies

Music & Movement

Boogiewoogies

United Reform Church, Saffron Walden 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

Jo Jingles

Sewards End Village Hall. Jo Jingles offers fun, interactive music, singing and movement classes for babies and pre-school children.

M: 07485 721393

E: westsuffolk@jojingles.co.uk

W: www.jojingles.com

Baby Massage Dance

Rock & Roll Baby

Baby Massage and Baby Yoga classes in Radwinter. Suitable from birth. Enjoy special, focussed time with your baby in a calm and supportive environment.

T: 07791745619

Buzzy BeesSting Performing Arts

Saffron Walden

M: 07900 735566

E: tam@stingperformingarts.com

W: stingperformingarts.com

Tappy Toes Dance School

Bishop’s Stortford. various classes

M: 07770 084 373

E: stortford@tappytoes.com

W: www.tappytoes.com

Tiny Tempos

Baptist Church, Saffron Walden

Music and movement classes suitable from birth.

M: 07956 211909

E: info@tinytempos.co.uk

W: www.tinytempos.co.uk

Do you have a listing you’d like to feature in our next issue?

E: rockandrollbabymassage@gmail.com W: rockandrollbaby.com

Contact Lisa or Tam on 0790 073 5566 or hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk for more info.

T: 0790 073 5566

E: hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk

SEND clubs and activities

Stortford Gymnastics

Offer SEND and Sibling session on the FIRST Sunday of every month from 9.30-10.45am. The SEND friendly sessions are for children from walking up to 10 years of age.

Bishop’s Stortford

M: 07808 808815

E: enquiries@stortfordgymnastics.com

W: stortfordgymnastics.com/contact

Kaizen Aikido club

Saffron Walden

M: 07795 477678

E: chris-swarbrick@hotmail.co.uk

CHIPS Playscheme

CHIPS are for children and their siblings ages 3 - 19years. Bishop’s Stortford

T: 01992 804952

W: chipsplay.org

Cafè Cornell

An Inclusive Family Friendly Café. We are welcoming and fully accessible, and we aim to meet any dietary requirements. The cafe is open Monday- Friday 09:00am – 4:00pm.

Saffron Walden

M: 07535 609248

E: info@cafecornell.co.uk

W: enterpriseeast.org

Tutors & Support

Academic

Anna Clarke BA(Ed) Hons

Family Support

Rochelle Cutler Mont Dip AMI

I Can Do It Montessori

Qualified and Experienced Tutor Primary Literacy and Maths. SATs preparation and confidence-building. GCSE Maths and English

T: 01799 526134

Mindfulness and Relaxation

Nikki Sammons ITEC. IIHHT. DIP. SMT. Y.M

Teaching relaxation and well-being skills for life.Outdoor and indoor courses for children, teens, 1 -1 and families.

T: 07966 579345

E: nikki@nikkisammons.co.uk

W: nikkisammons.co.uk

SandStory

Therapeutic approach, using sand and story telling, to working with children suffering with anxiety. I currently offer sessions for ages 4 to 9 years.

M: 07779718223

E: Larena22@protonmail.com

Positive parenting support and gentle family mentoring to solve all your parenting challenges between 0-12 years.

T: 07950 995771

E: rochelle@icandoitmontessori.co.uk

W: icandoitmontessori.co.uk

Languages

Kidslingo

Have fun learning Spanish through songs, games, drama and stories from 0-11 years.

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

Happy New (financial) Year!

A range of changes have recently come into force, so it is worth checking that you are aware of, and receiving, all the support that is available to you.

Welfare Benefits - changes since the beginning of April may mean you are eligible for benefits where you weren’t previously. You can check quickly and easily, using an online benefit calculator such as the one on the UDC website: https://www.uttlesford. gov.uk/article/5078/Online-Benefit-Calculators

Managed Migration - Tax credits are coming to an end & will be replaced by Universal Credit. Look out for your Universal Credit Migration Notice from DWP and don’t ignore it! It is very important to claim by the deadline you are given, but DON’T claim before you receive your letter or you could be worse off. Call our advisers if you are unsure.

Funded Childcare - From April, you’ll get 15 hours of funded childcare the term after your child turns 2 years old, if you’re eligible. From September 2024 the scheme will be extended to include children aged 9 months and older.https://www.citizensadvice.org. uk/family/education/claiming-the-new-15-hours-of-free-childcare-for-2-year-olds/

The National Living wage (NLW) and other minimum hourly rates of the NMW increased from 1 April 2024. Salaried workers are also impacted by this increase, so workers doing 35 hours per week must now be paid at least £20,821 a year. https:// www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates

New rules around flexible working requests also came into force on 6 April 2024. https://www.gov.uk/flexible-working

If you have a disability or care needs there are non means tested benefits to help with the extra costs of disability or long-term health conditions. Our specialist disability benefits team can help with applications for PIP, Attendance Allowance and Disability Living Allowance (for children under 16).

Low income households may also be eligible for reductions in Council Tax, water rates and broadband tariffs as well as help with NHS costs, healthy start vouchers and free school meals. https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/cost-of-living/ get-help-with-the-cost-of-living/

You can find more information online at www.citizensadvice.org.uk.

If you can’t easily access the internet, or need a little extra help, call our friendly advisers on 01799 618840 or email help@uttlesfordca.org.uk and they will carry out a benefit check for you. Our advice is always free and confidential.

Uttlesford Citizens Advice

Barnards Yard, Saffron Walden CB11 4EB 01799 618840 help@uttlesfordca.org.uk www.uttlesfordca.org.uk

Former Saffron Walden county High Student is the first national champion in Saffron Walden‘s history.

Boxing trainer Danny Easter who runs and owns 10 Rounds Boxing Club in Saffron Walden has recently coached and tutored, 15 year old local, Tristan Conner.

Former Saffron Walden county High Student is the first national champion in Saffron Walden‘s history.

Watch this space…. He is now going onto fight for an English Alliance WBC belt.

If you are interested in your little one learning the skill of boxing please contact Danny hello@10roundsboxing.com

MEDIA PACK - 2024

Salad Days - because they’re only young once!® is the single point of reference for parents and carers of children featuring information on schools, day-care, sports, performing arts, events, extracurricular activities, health, books and more.

Distribution is free 4 times a year through primary schools, pre-schools, toddler groups, Tourist Information Centres, libraries, and health clinics in the towns and villages shown on the map.

Rates are fair and competitive and long term loyalty is recognised, there is professional help with art-work (if necessary) and there is no VAT to pay. We accept completed artwork as high resolution pdf (Please ensure that fonts are embedded for correct output), high resolution (300ppi) jpeg or tiff files are also acceptable.

Please note: Microsoft Word or Apple Pages files are NOT an acceptable format for artwork, they are only suitable for supplying raw text. Email to hello@saladdaysmag.co.uk, send on CD or via WeTransfer (or similar service). www.saladdaysmag.uk

Advertising rates - print

Professional artwork (up to 3 amends) £15

Covers

210 x 148mm + 3mm bleedplease enquire if available.

Terms:

Payment on presentation of invoice. Salad Days reserves the right to refuse any advertisement at its discretion.

Learn to Swim

at Bishop’s Stortford College.

Pre-school midweek lessons for parents with children aged 0–3+ years, and holiday crash courses for children aged 4½ to 11 years.

£12 per lesson*.

Sibling discounts available.

Small class sizes with qualified swim instructors.

For more information and to book visit bishopsstortfordcollege.org

*Lessons half termly booking only, crash courses charged weekly.