Families Oxfordshire January/February 22

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Issue 105 January/February 2022 familiesonline.co.uk

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A most unusual Museum in the heart of Oxford with a surprise around every corner Book online at www.storymuseum.org.uk or call 01865 807600 Registered charity 1107809

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Contents & Competitions

Dear Reader,

Welcome to the first edition of 2022. A New year, new things, new skills, new places, new plans, new experiences and lots of firsts for little ones. I know many of you will feel like hibernating for most of January after overindulging and over-spending during the festive season but we at Families have other ideas. We have managed to find lots of things going on in Oxfordshire to get you out and about this month. Don’t forget to mention Families Oxfordshire if you attend an event listed or join one of the clubs and classes. Wishing you all a Happy New Year!

What's in this issue?

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News & Views Baby News What’s On Nursery Listings Childcare Challenges Meet the Head Teacher Getting more involved with Child Development 15. Clubs and Classes

Wise w ords “There are fa

r, far be things a tter head th an any we leav e behin d.”

– C.S. L ewis

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News & Views

Does Covid increase allergies?

If you feel like you have had more allergies and greater reactions to food and the environment since having Covid, then you are certainly not alone.

We have seen countless people whose allergies have been exacerbated or reignited since contracting the virus. We now see many babies with complex multiple allergies and food/environmental reactions whose mummies had Covid when they were pregnant or during the first trimester. So, I suspect this pesky virus is upregulating allergies in both mother and baby. Not just the classic peanut, egg and milk allergies but an increase in reactions to “healthy” foods like tomatoes, avocadoes and bananas!

Random reactions to household cleaning products and skincare products.

Symptoms vary from classic allergy reactions like hives and swelling and sneezing through to more generalised rashes, feeling hot, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, muscle aches and pain, chest tightness and brain fog. It can affect sleep patterns and there can be lots of night waking.

This is because Coronavirus is known to cause a cytokine inflammatory storm which leads to mast cell activation and histamine release. There are several papers published on Pubmed about this phenomenon, and it seems to play a big role in those with Long Covid.

If you feel you are reacting to more foods/ environmental chemicals since having Covid, then you might want to consider some help from Mother Nature with some changes from a nutritional perspective.

• Vitamin C is a key nutrient for mast cell stabilisation • Magnesium helps make DAO (the digestive enzyme, diamine oxidase) which helps to break down histamine in the gut • Vitamin B6 again helps to make DAO • Try mushrooms such as Reishi, Cordyceps, Maitake and Agaricusblazei – these calm an overreactive immune system down • Quercetin stabilises the mast cell membranes & therefore reduces the release of histamine.

Lucinda Miller is the clinical lead of NatureDoc Clinic, a UK-wide nutrition clinic specialising in women’s and child nutrition.

She also runs NatureDoc.Shop online as well as being an author of two family cookbooks, The Good Stuff and I Can’t Believe It’s Baby Food.

Lose yourself in a Whispering Wood

Help fund vital research by joining Wear A Hat Day!

Join thousands of children, parents and teachers on Friday 25th March for Wear A Hat Day– a great way to bring people together and raise vital funds for leading charity Brain Tumour Research.

Register your school, community or family event today: www.wearahatday.org and we’ll send you a free fundraising pack!

Coming at the end of March, Brain Tumour Awareness Month, several celebrities are supporting this hat tastic campaign.

The latest set of collectable Wear A Hat Day pin badges have a regal theme in celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year. Order your box of badges to sell during registration!

Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.

This is unacceptable and Brain Tumour Research is determined to change this. Funds raised from Wear A Hat Day will help towards establishing a new Research Centre of Excellence. www.wearahatday.org 4 Families Oxfordshire

Get your year off to a story-filled start at The Story Museum. From monthly clubs like Comic Club and LEGO Masterbuilders, to family shows like Tom Thumb and David Gibb’s family Jukebox there are plenty of regular Saturday events to brighten up the new year. Plus events with leading children’s authors including award-winning performance poet Joseph Coelho and children’s author Catherine Johnson. Or visit the Museum’s Galleries and lose yourself in a Whispering Wood, explore an Enchanted Library and refresh yourself in the Book of Hopes exhibition. Younger ones can get busy in the Small Worlds Gallery themed on picture books, whilst those with a love of travel can board the Story Craft for the City of Stories film experience which travels through a thousand years of Oxford’s story history. Whatever your age, you’ll find something to surprise and delight at this most unusual Museum in the heart of Oxford. www.storymuseum.org.uk

Abingdon Schools learning partnership

Six schools in Abingdon and the surrounding area are set to launch an independent and state school partnership that is mutually beneficial to students and staff at all the schools.

John Mason, Radley College, Fitzharrys, Abingdon, St Helen and St Katharine, and Larkmead have worked together very successfully over the last 5 years, on an informal basis, and have now decided to go a step further and formalise their affiliation. Formation of a new, formal partnership named the OX14 Learning Partnership will provide a strategic plan for how the schools can ensure impactful partnership activity takes place.

The aim of the partnership is to raise educational aspirations across the OX14 postcode by providing opportunities for students and staff to be challenged, inspired and learn from each other. A range of extracurricular activities and events will encourage collaboration between the schools as well as providing opportunities for widening horizons.

For more information visit www.ox14lp.org.uk/ familiesonline.co.uk

News & Views

Happy, Confident New Year from PERFORM

THE CHAIR THAT GROWS WITH THE CHILD IS A CHAIR FOR LIFE

Created by Norwegian designer Peter Opsvik in 1972, the Tripp Trapp® - the chair that grows with the child - revolutionized the entire children’s seating category. Brilliant in its simplicity, it is designed for every stage of childhood and beyond.

For over 40 years, millions of children around the world have grown-up using this iconic chair. The intelligent, adjustable design allows freedom of movement with both depthand height adjustable seat and footplates.

When adjusted correctly, your child is ensured a comfortable and ergonomic seating position at any age.

For more information on Stokke, visit www.stokke.com

Children’s Mental Health Week 2022

From 7th to 13th February, families across the UK are encouraged to take part in Children’s Mental Health Week with the theme Growing Together.

Growing Together is about growing emotionally and finding ways to help each other do the same. Challenges and setbacks can help us to grow and adapt and trying new things can help us to move beyond our comfort zone into a new realm of possibility and potential.

Run by the children’s mental health charity Place2Be, children (and adults) are being asked to consider how they’ve grown, what they need to help them grow and how they can help others to grow too.

Around five children in every classroom have a mental health problem and many more struggle with challenges from bullying to bereavement.

Help raise funds to enable Place2Be to reach more people by organising a Dress to Express fundraiser.

Find FREE resources for parents and carers and more information at www.childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Perform, the UK’s biggest centrally run drama school, is getting 2022 off to a flying start with a new term of classes focusing on building confidence and social skills.

How have your children adjusted after the pandemic? Many have struggled to reconnect and reestablish their old friendships and confidence. Child psychologist and author, Linda Blair, says that classes like these ‘can help children recover from social isolation as they encourage communication and effective social interactions. Drama helps a child’s ability to understand and interpret things like eye contact and can help in countless other ways both socially and cognitively.’

Fortunately, Perform classes are packed with confidence-boosting drama-based games and activities, allowing every child to shine as we explore two exciting termly themes.

Children ages 4 to 7 will trek off on a jungle adventure while ages 7 to 12 enjoy a thrilling adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. What’s more, Perform’s jungle theme becomes a West End musical during February half-term, featuring a professional adult cast, stunning costumes and fabulous music. Visit junglerumble.show To book a no-obligation FREE trial at Oxford, Abingdon, Didcot or Wallingford visit www.perform.org.uk/try using OX70222 for a £40 discount when you book by 7th February.

More flexible approach to school starting age

Being young in a school class puts a child at a long-term disadvantage compared to their older peers according to new research.

The study by Kings College London, found that when children are the youngest in their class, they have a greater chance of experiencing educational problems, as well as social and even emotional complications.

These findings could help parents considering when to enrol their child in school.

Senior author Professor Jonna Kuntsi said ‘The difference between the youngest and oldest member of a class can be up to eleven months. In the early stages of childhood, this is a significant difference in terms of maturity, behaviour and cognitive abilities.’

The researchers are now calling for greater flexibility about school starting age.

More at www.kcl.ac.uk/news

Pre-school and infant teaching at its best

Some very interesting visitors arrived to meet the nursery, reception and infants at The King’s School in Witney recently. The children have been learning about nocturnal animals and were very excited to get to stroke and even hold some!

Olivia, parent of two of the children said, “Getting them excited about learning, and opening their eyes to how they can make a difference in the world, is such a great start to their education. It’s more than learning for the sake of learning; it’s about having a positive impact in the world.”

The eager, young learners found out about protecting the environment for these beautiful animals and, because of their Christian ethos, how much they need to protect the earth for all of God’s creatures.

Start your child’s adventure with an independent Christian education that gets results. Book your place for the next open day on 5th March by emailing registrar@ tkswitney.org.uk.

Families Oxfordshire 5

Abingdon Prep

An outstanding independent day school for boys and girls aged 2-11

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len g

e.

Ch eris

h. Ins pire.

Visit Us

Early Years Open Morning

Saturday 22 January 10am to 11:30am

Open Morning

Whole School Open Morning

Thursday 10 February 10am to 12pm

Wednesday 19 January

Please book via our website at www.manorprep.org or email admissions@manorprep.org

abingdon.org.uk/prep Independent education for boys aged 4-13

Discover the Dragon An extraordinary Pre-Prep School in Oxford where boys and girls discover and develop their talents inside the classroom and beyond.

Join us on Friday 25th February for our Pre-Prep open morning; the best opportunity to get a feel for the spirit of the Dragon For any other enquiries please contact the Admissions team on 01865 315 405 or admissions@dragonschool.org

Dragon School, Bardwell Road, Oxford, OX2 6SS

dragonschool.org

As featured in

Families Baby News

Top tips for new parents by GP Mummy Celebrity mum GP Dr Zoe Williams says becoming a parent is overwhelming but remember your baby just needs you!

Recent research, which was conducted by premium children’s brand, Stokke, found that almost three quarters (71%) of parents admitted to being reluctant to reach out and ask for help during the first few weeks, with 84% of parents shocked at how their life changed. When talking about parental frustrations, sleep deprivation was their biggest fear.

TOP 5 FRUSTRATIONS FOR NEW PARENTS PERCENTAGE (%) 1. Sleepless nights 62% 2. Trying to soothe a crying baby 40% 3. Never getting anything done 36% 4. Endless washing 31% 5. Unsolicited parenting advice 30%

Dr Zoe Williams, an NHS General Practitioner and a recent first-time mum, commented: “Becoming a parent for the first time is not only wonderful but it can be incredibly overwhelming. It’s not surprising that many parents lack confidence or feel guilty for not doing something advised by the experts. It’s important that parents remember to trust their instincts when it comes to baby. Mum (and dad) really do know best and unless you have any medical concerns, your baby just needs you. Enjoy getting to know the newest member of your family and remember to be kind to yourself and ask for help if you need it.” Dr Zoe Williams shared her top tips for parents welcoming their new baby:

2. HAVE PLENTY OF SNACK STATIONS (I used little baskets) for when

you’re feeding the baby. Whether breastfeeding or bottle feeding, you will spend a lot of time sat in those ‘feeding places’ in the day and in the night so make sure you have plenty of (healthy) snacks. Have bottles of water there too, as it’s important to stay hydrated, and if breastfeeding remember that you also need to replace that extra fluid.

3. WHEN BABY COMES INTO YOUR LIFE YOU WILL MAKE SO MANY

ADAPTATIONS AS YOUR NEW LIFE REVOLVES AROUND THEM. But it’s also

important that baby eventually learns to fit into your life too. One way of trying to do this in the early days is by bringing the baby to the table with you at mealtimes, involving and interacting with them. The Tripp Trapp® chair (Stokke) is great as it brings your little one right up to the table from day one.

4. PELVIC FLOOR EXERCISES! It’s important to start practicing these

during pregnancy and continuing after the baby is born. Linking to an existing habit will improve your chances of remembering and forming this new habit. For example, every time you boil the kettle, or every time you brush your teeth.

5. FATHOM OUT YOUR GADGETS AND DEVICES. Breast pump, steriliser,

night light, and anything else that might need building and operating.

Read the instructions and have a little dummy run whilst your brain is still functioning, and you’ve had some sleep. You’ll thank yourself for it.

1. DON’T UNDERESTIMATE YOUR INSTINCTS. There are so many

books, guidelines and the advice from literally everyone and it can be overwhelming. There’s no such thing as perfect parenting and we all face different challenges. At the end of the day remember that your baby just needs you, and your instinct will serve you well. So trust it.

Introducing the Plant-Based Baby Detergent that adults want to use too!

Thame, Oxfordshire

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Our skin is the largest organ in the human body and it needs to be cared for; using detergents containing harmful chemicals including allergens and enzymes (that are traditionally found in most leading brands) isn’t ideal whatever your age.

Plant-based cleaning brand Nimble is able to offer a gentle, yet effective, laundry range, faultlessly kind to delicate skin.

Although originally created for babies’ fragile skin, it is fast becoming a favourite for adults too, especially those with any skin conditions.

The NHS states that detergents can be a common trigger for skin conditions, such as eczema, so all ages should be mindful of what is used against their skin - Plant-based Nimble may just be the answer.

RRP: £18 Stockist: https://nimblebabies.com

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Oxfordshire 7

On Whatd’s o, places to Things to be had go and fun to ages in for kids of all

Oxfordshire

Hope Hunters with Catherine Johnson

WHERE: The Story Museum, Oxford WHEN: 15th January, 14.30 Author and self-confessed axolotl lover, Catherine Johnson presents an adventure through the world of her award-winning novels including Sawbones and Race to the Frozen North. £7.00 Ages 9+ www.storymuseum.org.uk 01865 790050

Hope Hunters with Joseph Coelho

Blue Bell Walk

WHERE: Oxford Botanic Garden WHEN: Thursday 10 February, 11am - 12pm Join expert horticulturalists on a stroll among swathes of unique snowdrops and other winter and spring bulbs in the Botanic Garden collection. This walk is aimed at an adult audience, and anyone under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult. £15.00 www.obga.ox.ac.uk/

WHERE: The Story Museum, Oxford WHEN: 22nd January, 14.30 Join award-winning performance poet Joseph Coelho as he shares a cast of hilarious characters from the world of Fairytales Gone Bad. £7.00 Ages 8+ www.storymuseum.org.uk 01865 790050

Pinocchio Lambing Time

WHERE: Roves Farm, Swindon WHEN: 7th – 10th January See all their expectant ewes and the new born lambs keeping cosy in the lambing shed - you might even be able to see one being born!

Children’s prices start at £4.50 www.rovesfarm.co.uk/

Nature Tots

WHERE: Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre WHEN: 17th & 21st January and 14th & 18th February , 9.30 (and 12.30 on Fridays) Join friendly Nature Tots staff and volunteers to explore the nature reserves and enjoy wildlife themed activities suitable for children aged 18 months to 4 years. £7.00 (90 minutes) www.bbowt.org.uk/events/

Hey Diddle Diddle

WHERE: The Oxford Playhouse WHEN: Every Monday from 17th January – 11.00 Introducing music, dance and performance skills to early years children, kick-starting their excitement for creativity and imagination. New theme each week. £3.00 for child and adult www.oxfordplayhouse.com 01865 305305

8 Families Oxfordshire

National Storytelling Week

WHEN: 29th January – 5th February Throughout National Storytelling Week stories will be told in schools and theatres, pubs, museums, village halls, community centres and in many other places across the UK. To find a local event visit www.sfs.org.uk

WHERE: The Story Museum, Oxford WHEN: 22nd and 23rd February Pinocchio is coming alive one more time but this time with PAPER characters in a beautiful giant Victorian Toy Theatre.

Chance to meet the puppets and see how the crankie-style theatre works afterwards. £10.00 Ages 5+ www.storymuseum.org.uk 01865 790050

Flotsam and Jetsam’s Adventures to the Trash Vortex

WHERE: Cornerstone Art Centre, WHEN: 24th February, 11 & 14.00 Landlubbers, come along for bottle top treasure, sea shanties and a giant plastic bag squid. An interactive experience with the odd movie reference for all the family about recycling, with a pirate twist. £9.50 www.cornerstone-arts.org

Tom Thumb

WHERE: The Story Museum, Oxford WHEN: 30th January, 11.30 and 14.30 One night tiny Tom overhears his parents planning to leave him and his six brothers in the forest. But Tom shows everyone that even though he’s small, he’s still mighty and can outwit them all. Don’t miss this beautiful family show from Lyngo Theatre. £10.00 Ages 3+ www.storymuseum.org.uk 01865 790050

Big Garden Birdwatch

WHERE: Green space near you WHEN: 28th – 30th January Take part in the nation’s biggest bird watch exercise and be wowed by your local wildlife.

Simply count the birds you see in your garden, from your balcony or in your local park for one hour. FREE ww2.rspb.org.uk/get-involved/activities/ birdwatch familiesonline.co.uk

Families What's on Mr Benn WHERE: The Story Museum, Oxford WHEN: 5th March, 11.00 & 14.30 Storystock bring the magic of Mr Benn to the next generation of children, with a ‘costume shop’ set, two actors and an array of puppets. Opportunity to take part in a dress-up session and colouring activities after the show. £10.00 Age 3+ www.storymuseum.org.uk 01865 790050

Jungle Rumble

A WILD NEW MUSICAL FOR ALL THE FAMILY!

WHERE: Fortune Theatre, Covent Garden WHEN: 14th – 20th February An original family musical marking a natural progression for the highly regarded Perform drama school taking its acting expertise onto the stage. A sensational West End adult cast will bring the Jungle to life with thrilling choreography, uplifting songs and an inspirational message about working together to protect the Earth.

From £15.00 www.atgtickets.com/shows/jungle-rumble/fortune-theatre/

THE WHISPERING WOOD

All events are subject to change and cancellation in view of any future Covid-19 legislations.

WHERE: The Story Museum WHEN: January & February Explore THE WHISPERING WOOD, a mysterious indoor forest where every tree has a story to tell and a secret to reveal; THE ENCHANTED LIBRARY where you can wander between the shelves and find yourself inside a story; and SMALL WORLDS, a patchwork land of picture books, nursery rhymes and traditional tales for the very young. From £5.00 www.storymuseum.org.uk 01865 790050

Fairytale Farm,

WHERE: Chipping Norton WHEN: January & February: 10.00 – 17.00 Mixing classic fairy tales, animals and adventure play, children will love Fairytale Farm - the UK’s first visitor attraction that is open to all. A truly inclusive experience, where everything is accessible and everybody is welcome. From £7.00 www.fairytalefarm.co.uk 01608 238014

Public Open Evenings Online

Whizz Kidz

WHERE: Thame WHEN: January & February Why not head to Whizz Kidz for a fun hour or two, or more should you little one not yet be tired. Large indoor softplay /entertainment centre which has everything you could want. Prices from £2.00 www.whizzkidz-thame.co.uk 01844 217555

Children’s Workshop: Pawprints and Poo

WHERE: Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge WHEN: Wednesdays in January and February Each evening consists of a 30 minute public talk about astronomy, followed by (weather dependent!) stargazing on the Cambridge University Astronomy YouTube channel.

FREE

WHERE: Sutton Courtenay WHEN: 25th February, 10 – 12 Environmental Education Centre Join the education team and get your hands dirty searching for tracks and signs and discovering who is roaming the reserve when they aren’t looking. All activities will be outdoors! £7.00 per child www.bbowt.org.uk/events/

If booking any events, please mention Families Oxfordshire Magazine. familiesonline.co.uk

Families Oxfordshire 9

Families Nursery Listings 2022 Helping you find the right place for your little ones - our 2022 guide to some of the nurseries local to Oxfordshire with the latest Ofsted ratings, correct at the time we went to press.

ABC NURSERY AND PRE-SCHOOL, HEADINGTON. www.abcnurseryoxford.co.uk 01865 439051 (Ofsted Good 2018) BLEWBURY PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP, DIDCOT. http://blewburypreschool.co.uk 01235 851786 (Ofsted Good 2018) BUSY BEES DAY NURSERY, BICESTER. www.busybeeschildcare.co.uk 01869 321 522 (Ofsted Good 2019) CHANDLINGS NURSERY, OXFORD. www.chandlings.org.uk/nursery 01865 730771 CHARLBURY PRE-SCHOOL, CHIPPING NORTON. www.charlburypreschool.org.uk 01608 811200 (Ofsted Good 2018) CHILD FIRST BANBURY. www.childfirstbanbury.com 01295 273743 CHILD FIRST BICESTER. www.childfirstbicester.com 01869 323730 (Ofsted Good 2017) CORNFLOWER NURSERY, HEADINGTON SCHOOL www.headington.org/nursery/nurseryday 01865 759400 CRANFORD HOUSE NURSERY SCHOOL, CHOLSEY www.cranfordhouse.net 01491 651218 DAFFODIL DAY NURSEY LTD, WITNEY. www.daffodil-nursery.co.uk 01993 883451 (Ofsted Good 2018)

DIDCOT DAY NURSERY AND PRESCHOOL (Formerly Bright Horizons Little Stars Nursery), Didcot. www.brighthorizons.co.uk 0343 249 6466 (Ofsted Good 2021)

SANDFIELD DAY NURSERY AND PRE-SCHOOL, HEADINGTON. www.childbasepartnership.com/ sandfield-day-nursery 01865 744200 (Ofsted Outstanding 2016)

LITTLE BEARS PRE-SCHOOL, STADHAMPTON.www.little-bears.com 01865 400033 (Ofsted Good 2018)

SMART TOTS DAY NURSERY, BANBURY. www.completechildcare.co.uk 01295 259393 (Ofsted Good 2016)

LITTLE MILTON PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSERY, LITTLE MILTON. www.little-milton.oxon.sch.uk/nursery/ 01844 279310 (Ofsted Good 2019) LORD WILLIAMS’S SCHOOL DAY NURSERY, THAME. www.lwsdaynursery.co.uk 01844 260231 (Ofsted Good 2016) MAGPIES PRESCHOOL KIDLINGTON. www.magpies.info/magpies-preschool 01865 842724 (Ofsted Good 2016) MONGEWELL PARK DAY NURSERY AND PRE-SCHOOL (Bright Horizons), Wallingford. www.brighthorizons.co.uk 0333 920 4333. (Good 2021) PEAPODS NURSERY SCHOOL, HENLEY-ON-THAMES. www.peapodsnurseryschool.com 01491 628002 (Ofsted Good 2018)

SPARKING MINDS PRE-SCHOOL & DAY NURSERY (formerly Bear Necessities Day Nursery), Weston-onthe-Green. www.bearnecessitiesnursery.co.uk 01869 351118 (Ofsted Good 2017) SUMMERTOWN MONTESSORI NURSERY. www.montessorinorthoxford.org 01865 311364 / 554954 (Ofsted Good 2019) THE AUNTIES’ OLD SCHOOL NURSERY, STANTON-ST-JOHN. www.theoldschoolnursery.co.uk 01865 351215 (Ofsted Outstanding ‘17) THE AUNTIES’ OLD SCHOOL NURSERY, WHEATLEY. www.theoldschoolnursery.co.uk 01865 872606 (Ofsted Outstanding ‘19)

PIPPINS DAY NURSERY & NURSERY SCHOOL, HEADINGTON. www.aurorachildcare.co.uk 01865 227872 (Ofsted Good 2018)

THE CO-OPERATIVE CHILDCARE DAY NURSERY OXFORD. www.thecooperativechildcare.coop 0800 954 0669 (Ofsted Good 2016)

PUDDLEDUCK NURSERY, WALLINGFORD. www.puddleduck-oxfordshire.co.uk 01491 839815 (Ofsted Good 2019)

THE FARMHOUSE NURSERY SCHOOL, WITNEY. www.thefarmhousenurseryschool.co.uk 01993 700797 (Ofsted Outstanding ‘17)

Day Nurseries &

Pre-Schools in Oxfordshire

Bampton

Heyford

01993 850333

01869 233268

bampton@theoldstationnursery .co.uk

heyford@theoldstationnursery .co.uk

Bowling Green Close, Bampton, Oxfordshire OX18 2NJ

Camp Road, Upper Heyford, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX25 5BS

Faringdon

Oxford

01367 243800

01865 777167

faringdon@theoldstationnursery .co.uk

osp@theoldstationnursery .co.uk

The Old Station Nursery, 7 Park Road, Faringdon, Oxon SN7 7BP

Sanders Road, Oxford Science Park, Oxford, OX4 4GD

Availability for January 2022 & beyond Book a tour via our website

THE MANOR PREPARATORY SCHOOL PRE-NURSERY & NURSERY, ABINGDON www.manorprep.org/early-years/nursery 01235 858462 THE OLD STATION NURSERY, OXFORD, OXFORD SCIENCE PARK. www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/ nurseries/oxford 01865 777167 (Ofsted Good 2019) THE OLD STATION NURSERY, BAMPTON. www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/ nurseries/bampton/ 01993 850333 (Ofsted Good 2021) THE OLD STATION NURSERY, UPPER HEYFORD, BICESTER. www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/ nurseries/heyford/ 01869 233268 THE OLD STATION NURSERY, FARINGDON. www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/ nurseries/faringdon/ 01367 243800 (Ofsted Good 2019) THE OLD STATION NURSERY, FILKINS, LECHLADE. www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/ nurseries/filkins 01367 860594 (Ofsted Outstanding 2019) THE OLD STATION NURSERY, FAIRMILE, HENLEY ON THAMES. www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/ nurseries/henley 01491 577716 (Ofsted Outstanding ‘17) THE WANTAGE NURSERY AND PRE-SCHOOL. www.wantagenursery.co.uk 01235 760213 (Ofsted Good 2016) THE WILLOW ON THE FARM, BANBURY. www.willowonthefarm.co.uk 01608 730143 (Ofsted Outstanding ‘19)

Families Education

Childcare Challenges

by Karen Beresford

Ofsted data shows that childcare providers have been closing at a concerning rate, with almost four times more providers closing between September 2020 and March 2021 than between March and August 2020. Since the start of 2021, a third of local authorities in England have reported a rise in the number of providers in their area permanently closing.

Despite the closures, most local authorities in England have not yet seen an increase in childcare shortages. Over two thirds reported having enough childcare available to meet demand from parents working full time, compared to just over half last year (Coram March 2021).

However, this situation is most likely to be due to a drop in demand during the pandemic when more parents worked from home. As parents return to the workplace, demand is increasing again, making it harder for many to remain in their jobs.

A significant factor in the decline of childcare places has been a five per cent drop in those provided by registered childminders (Ofsted

data). Coram found that childminders abandoning the sector is especially significant in rural areas and childminder availability is more scarce for parents who work atypical hours and need more flexibility.

Significantly fewer than two thirds of parents working earlier morning or evening shifts reported that available childcare met their needs.

A quick scroll through Mumsnet shows many posts from parents struggling to access childcare: ‘It was so difficult to find a place in our area ... had to go to one

Christ Church Cathedral School Boys’ Prep School, Co-ed Nursery

nursery twice a week and to a different one for the third day’ reports one mother. ‘The nursery I wanted had an eighteen month waiting list,’ said another.

Parents are increasingly booking childcare in the early stages of pregnancy. In one example, a mother who was fourteen weeks pregnant registered her baby for a February 2023 start. In the North West, one mother booked a place for August 2023 when twenty weeks pregnant. It was one of the last spaces and the nursery is now fully booked for this time.

Where there is childcare, this is often not suitable. For example, a provision that runs 8am-6pm Monday to Friday means a parent can realistically work only 8.30am-5.30pm on weekdays, and that is if they have a relatively short and reliable commute. There are many jobs that fall outside those hours.

Of particular concern is the shortage of childcare places for older children. School age childcare is used by twice as many children as pre-school childcare and is essential for many working parents. With

childminders closing, after-school vacancies are harder to find. One mother just about managed to work from home but now she is being called back to the workplace she can't find anyone to drop off and pick up her children. Parents also report that many activities for children in the holidays run 9am to 3pm and cost around £200 per child. This is difficult to cover and fund.

For families with different aged children, some pre-school and others of school age, trying to find provision for before and after school, as well as full day care, is a particular challenge. Parents cannot always find a nursery that is within reachable distance of work, home and their older children’s school.

Access to childcare is important, both to support paid work and help shape young children’s development. As places become harder to find, parents who are considering looking for a childcare place may be wise to start the search sooner rather than later to find a space.

OTHER OPTIONS

Nanny shares work well for thousands of families. Offering flexible, home-based childcare, they can work out as a cost-effective alternative to nursery care. Parents become employers so check out the responsibilities first at www.childcare.co.uk/information/nanny-shares Two fifths of grandparents have provided regular childcare for their grandchildren, according to a YouGov poll for Age UK, with the best arrangements based on mutual respect and understanding.

Grandparents who are regularly looking after their grandchildren can claim National Insurance credits to top up their state pension.

More at www.informationnow.org.uk/article/grandparent-issues Karen Beresford is a childcare expert at Your Employee Wellbeing www.youremployeewellbeing.co.uk

Should government do more?

Open Morning Tuesday 8 March 2022 To register contact: registrar@cccs.org.uk www.cccs.org.uk 01865 242561

familiesonline.co.uk

Research by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) found that between 2008 and 2016 the cost of a 1 year old’s nursery provision grew four times faster than wages in England. In London, it was more than seven times faster.

Working parents say the government’s inadequate childcare policies leave them financially crippled and held back in their careers.

A wide-ranging study shows that overwhelmingly parents believe that ministers are not doing enough to support childcare costs and availability and that childcare in the UK is too expensive.

Families Oxfordshire 11

Families Feature

Meet the Head – Mr. Daniel Gibbons, Our Lady’s Abingdon Daniel Gibbons was appointed Head of Our Lady’s Abingdon School in September 2021 bringing a wealth of educational experience including an overseas appointment at the British International School in Jakarta.

He was pivotal in developing and improving academic performance across all of his prior schools, and specialises in maximising the valueadded potential for each pupil and the creation of agile and challenging curriculums to cater for a variety of pupil requirements.

Mr Gibbons kindly took some time out of his busy day to answer Families Oxfordshire Magazine’s questions.

WHAT AND / OR WHO INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A TEACHER AND LATER A HEADTEACHER? My family background is Irish, and there are a number of great aunts and cousins who were teachers or nuns, and one was a headteacher. In the west of Ireland at the time they were teaching, education was an invaluable way for young people to better themselves, improve their prospects and escape from poverty. I am passionate about the value of education and I am a great believer in opportunity or, more importantly, making the most of opportunity.

WHAT DOES BEING A HEAD OF A SCHOOL MEAN TO YOU? It is a vocation. Being privileged to lead a great team of staff in providing a plethora of opportunities for our pupils to explore and discover their gifts, and to watch them flourish as they become the best versions of themselves is an honour.

HOW DO YOU THINK A HEAD OF A SCHOOL CAN MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE TO AN INDIVIDUAL STUDENT? Recognition of the individual for not only who they are, but who they can become. Empowering staff to challenge each individual in a caring and nurturing manner so that they develop confidence and resilience over time, and learn where their gifts lie must be the mission of every school head in my opinion.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO PARENTS LOOKING AT PRIVATE EDUCATION FOR THE FIRST TIME? There is a wide variety of independent schools and, as such, there is a great deal of choice. Find the school which matches your child’s needs, not the school which matches the child’s parents’ ambitions.

HOW AFFECTED DO YOU FEEL PUPILS HAVE BEEN BY THE ONGOING PANDEMIC? Massively, and in a way not recognised before. Mental health issues are defining today’s young generation and, not because they are new, but because we are recognising that young people are growing up and, as such, have challenges and difficulties enough without needing to endure two national lockdowns. I believe that mental health support in the future will provide a much-needed, and long overdue, dimension to schools’ pastoral care.

WHAT SORT OF ADAPTATIONS HAVE BEEN NECESSARY AT OLA TO MAKE STAFF AND CHILDREN SAFE AND SECURE? We have created a new Designated Mental Health Lead who will coordinate mental health awareness training for pupils, staff and parents.

I SEE THAT YOU SPENT A COUPLE OF YEARS TEACHING AT THE BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL IN JAKARTA, INDONESIA. AS A TEACHER OF GEOGRAPHY AT THE TIME, DID YOU TAKE ANY OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPLORE THEIR RAINFORESTS AND ENJOY INDONESIA’S NATURAL ECO-SYSTEM? Definitely! I visited Krakatoa, and stepped foot on the new cone which has since collapsed into the sea. I hiked up Gunung Gede-Panggrango which is famous for appearing in Alfred Russell Wallace’s book about his travels, and theory of evolution which he arrived at independently of Darwin. At 200 metres above sea level, there are steaming waterfalls as it is volcanic. And, not forgetting, my namesakes, the gibbons, which are heard right across the interior of Java!

WHAT IS YOUR REAL-LIFE SUPERPOWER? Eye of the storm RELAXING HOLIDAY OR ACTIVE HOLIDAY? Bit of both!

OLA is a small school, big enough to offer a wide range of subjects and activities, but small enough to know, value and care for every child.

Their small class sizes allow children to receive individual attention and teachers ignite pupils with fun and innovative learning, ensuring that they are fully engaged in academic life and achieving excellent results.

All pupils are also encouraged to take part in a wide range of co-curricular, confidence-developing activities, including sport, drama, art, music and academic competitions.

Their outstanding system of highly praised pastoral care is at the centre of everything they do.

They see each child as a unique person, with gifts and talents to be nurtured, developing key qualities such as integrity, compassion, co-operation and courage.

If you would like to find out more, please contact their admissions team on 01235 544808 admissions@ola.org.uk www.ola.org.uk/visit

Families Education

GETTING MORE INVOLVED WITH YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT Children learn a huge amount while in quality childcare; however, they also spend large amounts of time at home where learning happens naturally, meaning that parents are the first and most important educators in their child’s life.

Together, childcare practitioners and parents can have a significant positive influence on a child’s learning and development.

A good quality childcare provider should work alongside you and your family to support the pace and quality of your child’s developmental progress.

HOW TO BETTER UNDERSTAND YOUR CHILD’S LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT Family learning gives parents the skills to continue developing their child’s learning in the home even when their children have finished their session at childcare.

And family members doesn’t just have to mean parents — it can include siblings, grandparents, friends or anyone else that cares for your child.

A good quality childcare provider should work alongside you and your family

HOW FAMILY LEARNING WORKS Ask your childcare provider what your child is currently learning or focusing on and ask them for suggestions of relevant activities you can do with them at home to continue their learning.

Your provider may run short, informal sessions at nursery or pre-school in which they explain what topics your child is covering and teach you skills that will help you to encourage your child’s learning in the home.

Family learning can also provide opportunities to improve your own skills in areas such as mathematics and English and feel more confident when supporting your child with their learning.

WHY IT WORKS Evidence shows that learning in the home helps: • Improve educational outcomes for your children in the long term • Encourages more parents back into learning themselves and promotes more family interest in learning through play activities which directly benefit their children’s learning • Provides a strong base to help parents and practitioners to better support a child’s journey towards formal schooling • Improves relationships between parents and children.

The success of family learning demonstrates that parents who become more interested in their children’s learning generally make the work undertaken by the childcare provider more effective.

• Fun activities to do at home • Healthy eating quiz or fun with baking • Making puppets to improve communication • Home-made musical instruments • Number games and activities • Songs and rhymes • Exploring shapes (indoors or outdoors) • Visiting the library • Float or sink (fun with water-based games).

VOLUNTEERING AT YOUR CHILD’S SETTING This is a great way to become more involved with your child’s learning.

• You do not need any experience, although previous experience working with children or in childcare is invaluable.

• You may be interested in formal roles like a nursery assistant where you will receive lots of support including an induction or special training. Other roles may be more informal with flexible arrangements such as joining outings to the park, helping with a fundraising activity or running a toy library.

Your child’s setting is likely to be open to ideas.

VOLUNTEERING AT YOUR CHILD’S SETTING CAN HELP YOU: • Increase your enjoyment and understanding of the way your child learns; • Learn new skills, gain confidence and practical experience; • Make new friends and meet other parents • Develop and become part of a parent forum • Take up free training opportunities to help you progress into paid work • Get to know your child’s friends better • Explore new career opportunities in childcare • Give something back to your local community.

This article was written by the Early Years Child Alliance (www.eyalliance.org.uk), a registered educational charity, which supports fourteen thousand members to deliver care and learning to over 800,000 families every year.

OpenWeek

31 January - 4 February 9:30am-3:00pm

Book your attendance in advance online Excellence in Independent Education for Boys and Girls Aged 3-18 Cranford House 180x66mm Families Jan/Feb 2021 AW.indd 1 familiesonline.co.uk

10/12/2021 11:40 Families Oxfordshire 13

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Things to , e - Drama im t r e m g Sum t somethin r o p s & ic mus one in for every

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Families Clubs & Classes Stagecoach Performing Arts

WHERE: Venues throughout Oxfordshire WHEN: Autumn Term starts 5th January Bring out the best in your child and encourage them to develop excellent communication skills, grow in self-esteem and enjoy the benefits of improved coordination. Suitable for children from age 2.

From £15 for two-week trial www.stagecoach.co.uk 01483 247404

RANGERS ONLINE WILDLIFE CLUB

WHEN: 18th January and 15th February, 18.00 – 19.00 If your child loves wild animals, likes to share or discover science facts and wants to learn how to help wildlife, this is for them! A fun, informative online nature club for 8-16 year olds. £3.00 www.bbowt.org.uk/events/

Rugbytots

PERFORM weekly drama, dance and singing classes

WHERE & WHEN: Oxford: Wednesdays; Abingdon: Saturdays and Thursdays; Didcot: Fridays; Wallingford: Saturdays Confidence-boosting dramabased games and activities, allowing every child to shine. This term children ages 4 - 7 will trek off on a jungle adventure while ages 7 - 12 enjoy a thrilling Romeo and Juliet adaptation.

To book a no-obligation FREE trial visit www.perform.org. uk/try using OX70222 for a £40 discount if booked by 7th February.

020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk

LEGO Masterbuilders Club

WHERE: The Story Museum, Oxford WHEN: 21st February, 11.00 and 14.30 Back by popular demand come and build a story with LEGO Master Builders Club! All you need to bring is your imagination and a desire to have fun. £15.00 Ages 5-7 and 8-12 www.storymuseum.org.uk 01865 790050

WHERE: Various locations across Oxfordshire Fun, structured play sessions take children on a journey of sporting imagination whilst teaching them how to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team. Suitable for ages 2 – 7.

From £7.75 per session www.rugbytots.co.uk

OXFORDSHIRE TAEKWON-DO & LITTLE PUMAS WHERE: Abingdon, Didcot, Grove A revolutionary method to encourage and motivate 4-7-yearolds as well as traditional methods for 7-14-year-olds. Get fit, learn self-defence and make friends.

FREE introductory lesson.

From £28/month www.oxfordshiretkd.co.uk 07831 950 850

If booking any courses, please mention Families Oxfordshire Magazine.

GYMNASTICS Playhouse Youth Theatre WHERE: Oxford Playhouse WHEN: Spring Term starts 18th January, 17.00 – 19.00 OP’s Playhouse Youth Theatre allows 12 to 16 year olds to develop their passion for performance, learn brand new skills, and build friendships in a supportive setting. Sessions are delivered by their OP team, supported by visiting practitioners who will deliver workshops in skills used by professional actors and theatre makers. £50 per term www.oxfordplayhouse.com familiesonline.co.uk

WHERE: Various locations across Oxfordshire Jumping, bouncing, rolling, climbing – children are natural gymnasts.

Encourage a healthy relationship with movement and confidence by signing your child up to a regular class with a specialist instructor.

Use the British Gymnastics Organisation website to locate classes in your area. www.british-gymnastics.org/discover

Mathnasium Learning Centres

WHERE: Summertown, North Oxford WHEN: Monday-Thursday & Saturday Where Maths makes sense! By producing a tailorstructured learning plan for each student according to his/her knowledge and skill level, the Mathnasium Method can help children in Years 2 - 12 better understand maths and leap ahead. Try the FREE maths skills assessment/trial session. www.mathnasium.co.uk/ northoxford 01865 655968

Make this their best year yet

Families Oxfordshire 15

e Days c n e i r 3 Expe rs 2 & a e Y r fo ays Saturd ry & ua 22 Jan 2022 h 5 Marc

Try out a day in the life of Years 3 & 4 at OLA School!

Experience Days: 22 January and 5 March 2022 Book at: www.ola.org.uk/year-2-3-taster-days/ Catholic Independent Co-educational Day School for 7–18s welcoming all faiths and none Our Lady’s Abingdon | Radley Road | Abingdon-on-Thames | OX14 3PS | 01235 524658 | www.ola.org.uk