We teach maths so that children understand it, master it, and love it. 01865 655968 | www.mathnasium.co.uk/northoxford TAKEMEHOME FREE Issue 109 September/October 2022 familiesonline.co.uk Stagecoach Performing Arts is the t ading name o Stagecoach Theat e A ts Limited Stagecoach Theat e Arts schools are operated under ranchise and a e independently owned by their Principals Stagecoach and C eative Cou age For Life a e egiste ed ademarks o Stagecoach Theat e A ts Limited. CHILDCARE VOUCHERS ACCEPTED Stagecoach Performing Arts School Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds ABINGDON, DIDCOT & hObotley@stagecoach.cObicester@stagecoach.cBICEabingdon@stagecoach.cWALLINGFORDo.ukSTERo.ukXFORDBOTLEYo.ukXFORDHEADINGTON&WOODSTOCKeadington@stagecoach.co.uk HENLEY & Ohenleyandmarlow@stagecoach.cMARLOWo.ukXFORDSUMMERTOWN&WITNEYsummertown@stagecoach.co.uk
An Oxford Playhouse Production Written by Tarek ThuMerchant8to Sat 31 Dec 2022 Tickets from £9.50 children | £11.50 adults Age guideline 3 to www.oxfordplayhouse.com8 Christmas at the Burton Taylor Studio… With the right materials, the right instruction, and the right support, any child can learn, enjoy and thrive in maths. Mathnasium’s bespoke Learning Plans are proven to improve grades and help children catch up and get ahead in maths. With live face-to-face tuition, either in-centre or online. Mathnasium of North Oxford 18Telephone:mathnasium.co.uk/northoxford01865655968SouthParade,OxfordOX27JL We teach maths so that children understand it, master it, and love it. Families Magazine advert & Cover_8.22.indd 2 23/08/2022 18:21
ASSISTANT EDITOR: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk
I hope you had a lovely long summer, I can hardly believe it's back to school already and the start of a new school year. This issue is packed full of information for you which will hopefully make life a little easier when planning things to do this September including open days at secondary schools, extracurricular activities, Halloween events in October and places to go and things to do this autumn. a family ticket* to Crumple’s Playhouse!AdventureChristmasatOxford
What'sinthisissue?
EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336, editor@familiesOxfordshire.co.uk
familiesonline.co.uk Families Oxfordshire 3 Contents & Competitions facebook.com/familieseastoxfordshiremag DON’T MISS A COPY! Receive Families Oxfordshire by post for just £9.30 for 6 issues (1 year) or £18 for 12 issues (2 years). Call or email editor@familiesOxfordshire.co.uk for a subscription form.
6 . What’s On 8. Times Tables 9. CCCS Meet the Head 11. School Spotlights 13 . School Spotlights 15. Clubs and Classes
DESIGN: Caroline Thompson-Heap, info@cheekymonkeydesigns.net 22,000 copies of Families Oxfordshire available through schools, nurseries, hospitals, clubs and classes, selected shops and restaurants. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know. Families Oxfordshire is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Oxfordshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Oxfordshire. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Oxfordshire its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
*a family ticket is for up to 4 people (maximum 2 adults) Unwrapped, scrumpled and thrown away... Crumple’s Christmas adventure begins! Shaping up into a wrapping paper figure he sets off on a quest to find the forest where he belongs. Join him on a snowy journey, as he discovers the world outside for the first time, making new friends along the way. Changing form and having fun, Crumple becomes a star in his home and the world at large. With live music by Tarek Merchant (Musical Director, 101 Dalmatians, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre; Hex, National Theatre), don’t miss Crumple’s Christmas Adventure at Oxford Playhouse Burton Taylor Studio from 8th to 31st December. To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket, please visit our Facebook page @familieseastoxfordshiremag and like and share our competition post. Good luck. 4. News & views
SOCIAL MEDIA: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk
Dear Reader, @FamiliesOxonMag
Wise wordsEducation is not thefilling of the pail,but the lighting of a fire.William Butler Yeats
To help parents with the cost of living, the government may allow one adult to look after five two-year-olds in England, up from the current limit of four. The move would bring England in line with Scotland. However, a petition has been started by the parents of a boy that died after a medical emergency at his nursery, warning that reducing ratios in early years’ settings could ‘endanger’ children. The petition has so far attracted more than sixty thousand signatures. Nursery staff and employers have also expressed strong opposition, claiming the plan is short-sighted and would endanger children.
Join fans from all over the world to celebrate favourite Roald Dahl characters, stories and moments. Get dressed up as your favourite Roald Dahl character at a Dahlicious Dress Up Day event being held at school, by community groups and libraries,or host your own by downloading the Roald Dahl Story Day Party. Visit the Roald Dahl Story Day hub www.roalddahl.com/roald-dahl-story-dayat for resources to decorate your home or classroom.
4 Families Oxfordshire familiesonline.co.uk
News & Views
Scarily Ever After Autumn is a busy time at Fairytale Farm. At weekends from 8th October to 27th November, the park will be open all day as normal, but when daylight fades, Fairytale Farm will become a magical wonderland of fairy lights, which will delight children and adults. The farm will stay open until one hour after dusk every weekend, and daytime visitors can stay on and see the illuminations for free. They also offer an ‘Illuminations and Supper’ deal, giving entry to the farm from 3pm, a delicious supper and a stroll through their illuminated gardens after dusk.
These delicious, vegan, crunchy snacks are made from 100% whole fruit, and a great snack for back to school lunch boxes. The healthy and affordable range (from 60p per pack) contains no added sugar, salt, fat or oil and a pack counts as one of your, or your kids’, five a day. Over 930m tonnes of edible food is wasted globally each year. Spare make use of both wonky raw and dried apples that are often rejected because they are misshapen, blemished, or deemed the wrong shape or size. The wonky apples are always fresh and delicious, they just happen to look a bit irregular. Spare transform them into beautifully healthy apple crisps that are good for people, producers, and the planet. Find them at Morrisons, Ocado, Amazon, BA and Co-op from September in single packs and new multipacks.
Helen Dodd, Professor of Child Psychology, who led the study, said: “We’re more concerned than ever about children’s mental health and our findings highlight that we might be able to help protect children’s mental health by ensuring they have plentiful opportunities for adventurous play.’
Healthy Snacks
Tens of thousands of children will be given the chance to learn a new instrument as part of a new national plan for music education in the UK. The plan sets out the government's ambition to give 'every child the opportunity to develop a love of music’. Made in consultation with music teachers and young people in the music industry, it involves a raft of new investments and measures to support music education. Twenty five million pounds will be made available for schools to purchase musical instruments and equipment, including adapted instruments for children with special educations needs and disabilities. According to the updated guidance, schools will be asked to offer at least one hour of music curriculum a week. Every school will be expected to have a designated music lead or head of department.
The study found that children who spend more time playing outside – and taking part in activities out of sight of adults including exploring woods, camping out, swimming in a river or lake, trying new outdoor skills and creating obstacle courses – had fewer ‘internalising problems,’ characterised as anxiety and depression.
Adventurous play boosts mental health Excitement and exploration help kids avoid anxiety and depression, according to researchers from the University of Exeter.
Every year, the life and works of one of the best children’s authors of all time is celebrated on his birthday, 13 September. During his lifetime, Roald Dahl wrote twenty children’s books and published forty eight books altogether. He created over five hundred new words and character names and his books have sold more than two hundred and fifty million copies worldwide.
The study’s authors are calling on authorities to ensure that every child has free access to a safe space for adventurous outdoor play close to their home. The study is published in the journal Child Psychiatry & Human Development.
OPPOSITION TO CHILDCARE CUTS
And don’t miss Fairytale Farm’s family-friendly Halloween event, Scarily Ever After, from 22nd to 30th October 2022. Ursula the Sea Witch is giving away singing tips to Fairytale Farm visitors during her sing-along sessions! There is also a trail activity to spot Ursula’s eels, a pumpkin patch (where every child can pick a free pumpkin), pumpkin carving, a creepy crafts corner and much more. They also have a special Halloween and Illuminations Party evening on Saturday 29th October, where they combine the excitement of their spectacular illuminations with Halloween activities to create a truly memorable evening out. Tickets can be bought at www.fairytalefarm.co.uk
Celebrate Roald Dahl Story Day
More music education in schools
Give your creative juices a boost with a deep dive into the world of comic making at The Story Museum, finalist in the 2022 Art Fund Museum of the Year award. The Museum’s 2022 exhibition ‘KA-BOOM! The art of creating comics’ takes you step-by-step through the process, from initial ideas through to fully realized story-line. And with plenty of tips and tricks along the way from a host of different comic artists, you’ll be all set to go home brimming with ideas for making your own comics.
Fighting over household chores (as well as the avoidance of them) can be a significant source of conflict between parents and children, not to mention spouses.
World’s biggest coffee morning
Parents are able to instil a sense of responsibility and accountability in their kids, track chores for weekly pocket money and use points accrued for certain privileges for their children and teens.
KA-BOOM!
Choreful is now available on App Store and Google Play. Families Oxfordshire 5 News & Views CBBC star writes mixed-race storybook on friendship CBBC star Gemma Hunt is publishing her first children’s book, a fun, mixed-race retelling of the stories of Jesus, which aims to teach children how to be good friends to one another.
Heritage Open Days is brought to you by the National Trust with the support of People’s Postcode Lottery.
The Museum is also running a series of comic-themed workshops and live events throughout the autumn. Entry to the exhibition is included with the Museum Galleries where you’ll also find a Whispering Wood full of oral stories and an Enchanted Library where you’ll be able to step into story moments from much-loved stories including Winnie-the-Pooh, Narnia and The Snowman.
Give the autumn term a confidence boost with Perform. A common struggle shared by many children as they start school or return after the summer break is a lack of confidence, and this can stop them reaching their full potential. Whether you're looking for a confidence boost for your child or just a weekly dose of drama, dance and singing fun, Perform is back for the autumn term with two exciting productions for 4-7s and 7-12s.“Perform is not a stage school” stresses Perform Principal, Lucy Quick. “Our classes teach life skills using fun confidence-boosting drama games which results in a celebratory end of term production. The primary aim of our classes is to develop what we call the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration,Coordination and Communication."This term,Perform 4-7s will venture into The Magician's Chamber for some confidence-building fun with Merlin the Wizard whilst 7-12s will work on a funky festive performance of Ebenezer, based on the Charles Dicken's classic, A Christmas Carol. The term runs from September to December and children are welcome to try a free class at any point. To book a free no-obligation trial class visit www.perform.org.uk/try
Octoboom is the friendly, many-tentacled editor waiting to guide you through the KA-BOOM! Exhibition. For the chance to win a family ticket for 4, just tell us how many tentacles an octopus has by visiting our Facebook page @familieseastoxfordshiremag and commenting your answer on our competition post. Good luck.
The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning is Macmillan Cancer Supports biggest fundraising event for people facing cancer and is dedicated to bringing people together over a cuppa to raise vital funds. Each year, people in the UK and across the world host their own coffee morning with the donations received going to Macmillan services. This year’s official event date is 30th September but Coffee Mornings can be held at any time. It’s easy to sign up. Just go to www.macmillan.org.uk/coffee and you’ll be sent a Coffee Morning Kit with everything you need to make your coffee morning a success. More info: coffee.macmillan.org.uk
New events will be added to the festival directory every day. More info: www.heritageopendays.org.uk
FREE family fun at Heritage Open Days
The presenter decided to write the new stories after being unable to find any children’s books which featured a mixed-heritage family like her own.AGood Friend features a mixed-race family as the main characters and aims, according to Gemma ‘to give Jesus a face which isn’t the ‘stereotypical, blonde-haired and blue-eyed Jesus so many of us grew up with.’ She has also revealed that she feels ‘immense responsibility’ as a children’s TV presenter to be a good role model to the children who watch her. A Good Friend can be purchased www.spckpublishing.co.uk/a-good-friendat a family ticket for 4 to The Story Museum Galleries, including a trip to KA-BOOM: The art of creating comics.
NEW APP HELPS TURN CHORES INTO A GAME
Running from 9th to 18th September, Heritage Open Days is England's largest festival of history and culture and allows families the chance to visit hidden places and try new experiences for free, including places that usually charge for admission.
Many events will adopt this year’s theme, Astounding Inventions, offering a celebration of the cutting-edge creations that make our lives easier, as well as the imaginative inventors behind them. There will be hundreds of free interactive activities for children, including dressing up, craft, woodland walks and railway rides.
Fun with Merlin
A new app has just been launched which promises to revamp how families divvy up life’s daily responsibilities, turning tedium into a fun and competitive game that both parents and kids can enjoy and benefit from.The app is essentially a motivational tool that creates some healthy competition with a points and rewards system for the daily, weekly and monthly household contributions of each family member.
WHERE: Oxfordshire WHEN: 9th – 18th September England’s largest festival of history and culture, gives you the chance to discover local, hidden gems. Churches, museums, railways, gardens: lots of venues open their doors to the public. Free. Booking www.heritageopendays.org.ukrecommended.
Fairytale Farm, WHERE: Chipping Norton WHEN: September and October: 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 £7.75 www.fairytalefarm.co.uk 01608 238014
Young Rangers – Didcot
Waterperry House Open Weekend
WHERE: Waterperry Gardens WHEN: 3rd and 4th September, 10.00 – 17.30 A chance to meet the owners of Waterperry Estate: the School of Philosophy and Economic Science. There will be a varied selection of lectures, talks and tours throughout the weekend with entry to the house included with your garden entry. Adults £9.50, children under 16 01844www.waterperrygardens.co.ukfree.339254
WHERE: Sutton Courtenay WHEN: 10th September and 1st October, 13.30 – 15.30 A wildlife club for 8 - 12 year olds who love nature and wildlife. Sessions are packed full of fun games and activities to teach you all about the fantastic natural world that surrounds you. £7.00 per child www.bbowt.org.uk/ events/ Free parent & toddler activity sessions
What’s On Things to do, places to go and fun to be had for kids of all ages in Oxfordshire
Children and Military Lives Exhibition
Thame Food Festival
Cogges Manor Farm WHERE: Witney WHEN: September & October, 9.30 – 16.30
Heritage Open Days
Nature Tots WHERE: Sutton Courtenay WHEN: 21st - 23rd, September and 19th – 21st October, 9.30 –Environmental11.00 Education Centre 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 www.bbowt.org.uk/events/minutes)
WHERE: Headington, Oxford WHEN 12 September – 5 December 10:00-11:00am Free parent & toddler activity sessions for families with a connection to autism or ADHD. Chat and play in a supportive, inclusive atmosphere. Places are limited and registration is essential: email start@psy.ox.ac. uk, call 073108 76421 or visit www.startproject.info to find out more. FREE
Oxford Canal Festival WHEN: 17th September 12.00-18.00 Enjoy great music, the spoken word tent, arts and crafts tent, film tent and guided walks to learn about the canal and its history, delicious food from across the world, and the return of the popular dog show! www.kilsbytheatreboat.comoxford-canal-festival-2022www.oxfordcanalheritage.org/or
Chilli Fest WHERE: Waddesdon WHEN: 2nd – 4th September, 10.00 – 17.00 Chilli Fest is the perfect way to round off the summer holidays with plenty of family fun and children’s activities to enjoy with face painting, crafty activities and the chance to make music with the ever-popular Junk Yard Orchestra. From www.nationaltrust.org.uk£3.00
Agatha Christie Weekend
exhibition Michaelmas Daisy Season WHERE: Waterperry Gardens WHEN: 1st – 30th September, 10.00 – 17.30 See the famous herbaceous border in all its late summer glory as it bursts back into life with Michaelmas Daisies (Asters). There will be a huge range of Waterperry grown varieties on sale in the plant centre and experts will be on hand to give advice about these wonderful plants. Adults £9.50, children under 16 01844www.waterperrygardens.co.ukfree339254
WHERE: Wallingford Museum WHEN: 9th – 11th September Events include a ‘Who Dunnit’ challenge at the Museum on Friday night, guided walks along the Agatha Christie Trail and a Murder Mystery Dinner at Cholsey Great Hall on the Saturday evening.
WHERE: The Thame Showground WHEN: 24th and 25th September Demonstrations on the Big Cookery Stage, artisan and street food, the Humble Country shopping marquee, live music, FestivAles’ pop up pub, children’s activity area, circus skills tent, dog show and much more!
WHERE: Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock WHEN: Until 24th November Exhibition exploring the experience of children of serving military personnel and also children affected by conflict, historically and contemporarily. Combines objects, personal stories, oral histories, art and photography. uk/children-and-military-lives-www.raf-ff.org.
Adult from £12.00 (children under 16 thamefoodfestival.co.ukfree)
Family Night Safari WHERE: Sutton Courtenay WHEN: 30th September, 20.30 –Environmental22.30 Education Centre Learn to use bat detectors to hear bats hunting overhead and lamps to spot newts and frogs in the ponds, help our nature reserve team check the small mammal traps and have a look at the moth trap to find out how we monitor and survey these amazing insects! £7.00 events/www.bbowt.org.uk/
www.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk
6 Families Oxfordshire familiesonline.co.uk
AUTUMN FEST WHERE: Blenheim Palace WHEN: 1st and 2nd October, 9.30 – 19.30 A host of super fun games, local music, entertainment and activities for all ages including the Michaelmas Market with 50 independent traders from across the county and artisan food stalls. From £10.50 www.blenheimpalace.com
Cogges is a unique historic farm in the heart of Witney, Oxfordshire with a beautiful Manor House, enchanting walled garden, orchard, adventure play and friendly animal residents. They have 17 acres of open space for you to enjoy, and they welcome well-behaved dogs on a short lead too! From £6.00 www.cogges.org.uk 01993 772602 Please mention Families Oxfordshire Magazine
WHEN & WHERE: 24th to 26th October Sonning Common Village Hall & The Heights Primary, Caversham 24th, The Story Museum 25th & Badgemore Primary, Henley on Thames 26th Do you love building with Lego® bricks? If you’re a budding designer, engineer or inventor then Master Builders Club needs you! Creative brick building workshops for children age 5+ with 3 different exciting themes. Just remember to bring your imagination! www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk
Tiny Ideas Festival
RhymesSomethingwith
WHERE: Oxford Playhouse WHEN: 9th October, 14.30 Uncover the hidden origins of language, understand how and why we use the words we use, enhance your vocabulary, and test your knowledge with two of the wittiest and finest wordsmiths, Gyles Brandreth and Susie Dent. Suitable for ages 7+ whats-onwww.oxfordplayhouse.com/£29.5001865305305
Apple Weekend WHERE: Waterperry Gardens WHEN: 8th and 9th October, 10.00 – 17.30 A great family day out where you can sample and buy different types of apples, take a tour of the orchards & fruit sheds and take the children around the apple anagram game in the gardens. Adults £9.50, children under 16 www.waterperrygardens.co.uk01844free.339254
WHERE: Venues around Oxford WHEN: 30th September –2nd October
Families What’s on
WHERE: The Story Museum WHEN: 24th – 29th October A fabulous week of events including The World of Manga with Sonia Leong (age 8+), The Time Thief with author Patience Agbabi (age 8+), Jack and the Beanstalk production by the Lyngo Theatre (age 3+) and a Halloween Special Silent Story Disco where you can dress as your favourite spooky character (age 3+). From whats-onwww.storymuseum.org.uk/£8.0001865790050
Pigs Might Fly WHERE: Oxford Playhouse WHEN: 24th – 29th October
Two Beano Eds & a Million and One Stories
This bold and energetic new musical follows the air-raising adventures of Pintsize, the youngest and most daring piglet on Mudpuddle Farm and tells the story about the joy of unlikely friendships. Features catchy songs, puppetry and slapstick humour to bring the farmyard to life. Suitable for ages 3+ £14.50 www.oxfordplayhouse.com/whats-on 01865 305 305
The first ever early years arts festival in Oxford celebrating 0 – 6 year olds and the creativity they bring to the world! tinyideasoxford.com
familiesonline.co.uk Families Oxfordshire 7
Magical Merlin WHERE: The Fortune Theatre, Covent Garden WHEN: 24th – 30th October This October half-term, take your children on a trip back in time as they discover a world of witches, wizards, magic and mystery. With a spellbinding mix of magic, songs and dancing, and uplifting themes of friendship and self-belief, Magical Merlin is a spectacular mini-musical sure to enchant the whole family. Suitable for 4-10 year olds. From £17.50 atgtickets.com
HALLOWEEN AT BLENHEIM PALACE WHERE: Blenheim Palace WHEN: 21st – 31st October As Halloween creeps closer and the days shorten, a mysterious mist falls across the gardens at Blenheim Palace. Join with family and friends to wander from dusk into darkness between one ghostly space to another. From www.blenheimpalace.com£12.00
Halloween Hunt in the Gardens WHERE: Waterperry Gardens WHEN:15th – 30th October, 10.00 – 17.30 Take part in the Waterperry Halloween Hunt throughout the October half term. £2.50 per child including prize (adult garden entrance fee applies) 01844waterperrygardens.co.ukwww.339254
WHERE: The Story Museum WHEN: 8th October, 14.30 An interactive session from the brains behind Beano. Craig Graham and Mike Stirling share the secrets of the world’s longest running comic and their new Beano Boomics. Ages 6-12 £8.00 uk/whats-onwww.storymuseum.org.01865790050
Purple
Whizz Kidz WHERE: Thame WHEN: September and October Why not head to Whizz Kidz for a fun hour or two, or more should you little one not yet be tired. Large indoor soft play / entertainment centre which has everything your little one could want. Prices from 01844www.whizzkidz-thame.co.uk/£2.00217555
LEGO® FairgroundSpooktacularWorkshopForay
Half Term at The Story Museum
Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths specialist who has taught primary aged children for sixteen years and is interested in early years and home learning. For free homework and home learning resources, find the Facebook page edumateuk.
Families Education
Learning times tables by rote for weekly tests was a feature of most of our school days. For some, these tests would bring on the cold sweats while for others they were an opportunity to shine. But, of course, it isn’t about drills just for the sake of doing well in the tests; times table fluency can determine how easily children can grasp new mathematical concepts, such as fractions.
• Colour in the multiples on a 100 square.
Rhyming is a great way to help these types of learners to remember. Kinaesthetic learners learn best when they are ‘doing.’ When helping your child learn their times tables, mix up the methods. Play songs, colour code patterns in the answers and give them a way to use their hands such as using counters to represent times tables facts.
• Rhymes are great for tricky multiplication facts such as ‘wakey wakey, rise and shine, 7 x 7 is 49’.
• Use online games such as Times Tables Rockstars (ttrockstars.com). These are great to help develop speed and accuracy.
Mastering times tables by Zuzu Jordan
ADVENTURES EVERY DAY A C
Learning around the house
• Match the question with the correct multiple choice answer.
Auditory learners respond well to information in song forms or poems.
Learning styles Have you ever wondered why some children just ‘get’ things while othersLearningstruggle?styles can explain why some children grasp new concepts more quickly just because of how the information is presented. The trick is to study the individual child and work out how they learn best. Theorists continue to argue exactly how many styles there are but most agree that there are visual, auditory and kinaesthetic learners. A visual learner may like things coloured coded or written in different shapes. Mind mapping appeals to visual learners too and is a great way for them to see connections between subjects or information.
8 Families Oxfordshire familiesonline.co.uk
To help schools target support, the government have introduced a statutory multiplication check for year 4 pupils, which tests them on whether they can recall their times tables up to 12 x 12. This test consists of twenty five questions and the children are expected to answer them within six seconds; however, there is no pass mark.
LEARNING
Sat 24 September 10am 12pm A Co Educational Prep School from 2 11 years We look forward to meeting you Please book at www chandlingspst org
• Write multiples on post-it notes or paper and make a game of aiming a ball at the correct answer.
Grasping new mathematical concepts can be very tricky in the abstract form. What works here is to present the concepts in a concrete form instead. Using practical resources can help children develop a good number sense. There’s no need to buy specialised equipment when there are so many household items you can use for little or cost. For example, screw top bottle lids can be used for counting and also used as place value discs. Simply write numbers on them and children can use them for ordering numbers or using them on a place value chart. Most households have scales, measuring jugs, tape measures, thermometers and clocks, all of which allow children to use and apply maths to real life. Raid your board games collections for dice and boards with numbers on. Children benefit from real life maths so include their toys as much as possible to help their understanding. For example, if they love cars, have them work out how many wheels there would be if they had three cars.
• Ask Alexa (or equivalent AI) to recite a times tables or play a multiplication song and ask your child to try to beat it.
OPEN MORNING
• Use counters to represent a calculation. For example, children would need six milk bottle lids to represent 2 x 3 and 3 x 2. Many children are used to this representation from Reception when they are taught arrays.
What can parents do to help? It’s very useful to observe and work out your child’s learning style so you can guide them in the most effective direction. Showing your child how to spot patterns and connections also helps them to apply their understanding to more complex calculations and word problems.
Try some of these ideas:
'Out of this World'
Find us by bike or on foot. Parking is also available. An expedition to our Woodland School Open Afternoon for Pre-Prep children on Friday 30th September 2.00 – 3.30 pm Meet the Headteacher –
Mr Richard Murray started as Headteacher Christ Church Cathedral School in January 2014 having previously worked as both Housemaster and English Teacher in other schools since beginning his teaching career in 1990. He kindly took time out of his busy day to answer Families Oxfordshire Magazine’s questions.
The impact of Covid at CCCS was minimised by our excellent online provision throughout the pandemic. Pupils at independent schools generally were at an advantage in this regard but it was hard to mitigate against the effect of the absence of face-to-face social interactionthe bread and butter of an education - and undoubtedly some pupils suffered anxiety as a result of this.
At the Prep School level, there are huge benefits to boys being educated in a single sex environment. They are more able to be themselves and are not under any pressure to fit into stereotypical roles. They are free to excel at whatever activities they wish, be that Rugby, playing the oboe, knitting or Architecture.
10. Relaxing holiday or active holiday?
Pre-Prep Open Events
Independent Day School for Boys 3 - 13 & Girls 3 - 5, Flexi-Boarding for Boys 8 - 13 Christ Church Cathedral School, Oxford To register: registrar@cccs.org.uk | 01865 242561 www.cccs.org.uk | 3 Brewer Street, Oxford OX1 1QW
A Journey into Space Stay & Play Open Morning for Pre-School children on Wednesday 28th September 9.30 – 11.30 am
2. What does being a headteacher of a school mean to you? So much! I have the privilege of being in a position where I can create an environment in which young people can flourish and,of course, it is the early years which are most formative.
9. What is your real-life superpower? The ability to get to know and understand others.
4. What advice would you give to parents looking at private education for the first time?
Families Education familiesonline.co.uk Families Oxfordshire 9
5. How affected do you feel pupils have been by the COVID pandemic?
Firstly, that it is absolutely worth it – nothing is more important than an education for a child. The benefits are life-long and there is no more important investment. Secondly that no two independent schools are the same so choose one which will suit your child best.
8. Talented singers and musicians have an amazing opportunity to join the Christ Church Cathedral Choir through a Choristership and can receive a bursary of up to 100% of fees. How important is maintaining the tradition of educating the Cathedral Choristers at CCCS – a tradition that has been in place since 1546? Completely vital. The choral tradition is one of the most precious cultural treasures of England, and unique to this country. Particularly in these fast-changing times, it is a source of great solace and strength to so many.
Mr Richard Murray, Christ Church Cathedral School (CCCS)
7. 2021 / 2022 has been the first year where some semblance of normality has returned to daily school routines around the country. What, for you, have been the highlights in CCCS this academic year?
Relaxation through activity. I love walking in the mountains and swimming in the sea. Christ Church Cathedral School, 3 Brewer Street, Oxford OX1 1QW +44 (0) 1865 242 561 registrar@cccs.org.uk www.cccs.org.uk
Our parents are an integral part of CCCS so we have loved having them back at all our school events. Everyone was able to gather again not only at Sports Day, our Music Competition in the Cathedral and Speech Day but also at the smaller events such as our Friends and Family Concert and weekly coffee after Cathedral Assembly, which are a way of life for us.
1. What and / or who inspired you to become a teacher and later a headteacher? When I was at Bradfield, I loved English but it was only when my teacher, Mr Whiffin, introduced us to a sonnet by Keats that I fully realised the power of poetic language. Mr Whiffin transformed my appreciation of words was transformed and I realised that I, too, wanted to pass on this gift to others.
3. How do you think a headteacher of a school can make a real difference to an individual student?
6. CCCS is predominantly a boys-only school with a co-educational Nursery which allows girls to go on to Pre-Prep. What do you believe are the main benefits of boys-only schools?
By getting to know them well. Besides feedback from teachers and parents, my time at the school gate, in the dining hall and on the sidelines is essential to understanding what makes each pupil tick. A short conversation in the playground is worth so much. The better I know each pupil, their quirks, talents and ambitions, the more I can ensure that they receive the guidance they need.
Building the future Open events: 21 September 2022 4 November abingdon.org.uk/prep2022 www.dragonschool.org An extraordinary Pre-Prep and Prep School in Oxford where children discover and develop their talents inside the classroom and beyond. To get a feel for the spirit of the Dragon, book onto one of our termly open days on our website, or through our Admissions team admissions@dragonschool.org / 01865 315 405. Means tested bursaries available. Challenge. Cherish. Inspire. Top grade ‘excellent’ofinallareas - Latest ISI OpenInspection Day Saturday 8 October, 10:00am-12:30pm Book your visit now at www.manorprep.org or email admissions@manorprep.org
The Dragon is a happy, vibrant, relaxed community where boys and girls discover and develop their talents. Dedicated and inspiring teachers encourage a love of learning and treat each child as an individual. The nurturing Pre-Prep is in the heart of Summertown and provides the ideal foundations for future learning whilst ensuring that curiosity and creativity are fostered. Reception children enjoy learning through play and Muddy Dragons (Forest School) is a real highlight. From Year 1 upwards, Music, Sport (including swimming), Art and French are taught by specialists. Children move to the Prep at the end of Year 3 and this marks the widening of extra-curricular opportunities including the Dragon QUEST enrichment programme. Interested families are encouraged to book on to an Open Morning where they can meet our Head, Emma Goldsmith and see the School in action. Dragon Pre-Prep, 306 Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 7NR 01865 315 541 Dragon Prep, Bardwell Road, Oxford, OX2 6SS 01865 315 400 www.dragonschool.org / admissions@dragonschool.org (01865 315405) Prep Open Morning: Friday 17th September Pre-Prep Open Morning: Saturday 30th September
Abingdon Prep School
Open Events: ‘A Journey into Space’ Stay & Play for pre-school children: Wednesday 28th September, 9.30am – 11.00am Open Afternoon for Pre-Prep: Friday 30th September, 2.00pm – 3.30pm
11 School
Christ Church Cathedral School, Oxford
“The beginning of any new school year is one of anticipation and excitement but this is a particularly significant term for Abingdon Prep as we see the opening of our state-of theart music school, second science lab, bespoke CDT room and new library. Adding to our enviable existing facilities, including 30 acres of sports grounds, our new facilities will really enhance the Abingdon Prep experience for our whole school community. The best way to come and discover more about our friendly, happy and high achieving school is to visit it for yourself and I would encourage anyone thinking of an independent Prep School education for their sons to book onto one of our open events in either September or November. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first serve basis. “We hope to welcome you to Abingdon Prep soon.” - Craig Williams, Headmaster Josca’s House, Kingston Road, Frilford, Oxfordshire, OX13 5NX 01865 391570 www.abingdon.org.uk/prep/ admissions.manager@abingdonprep.org.uk (Beverley Buckle)
Open Morning: Wednesday 21st September, 9.30am
familiesonline.co.uk Families Oxfordshire Spotlights
The Manor Preparatory School
Autumn Open Day: Saturday 8th October, 10:00am – 12:30pm
Discover the Dragon
Founded by Henry VIII, Christ Church Cathedral School (CCCS) is a Prep School for boys aged 3 - 13, with a Co-ed Nursery, set in the heart of Oxford. We offer boarding for Choristers and Flexi-Boarding for day boys aged 8 – 13. Our Nursery is housed in a 16th Century building, comprising four welcoming classrooms with a lovely garden. It’s a special place, where the children’s happiness and development are at the heart of everything. Children benefit from a seamless transition from Nursery to Reception and beyond. We pride ourselves on exceptional academic and musical achievements - over 50% of our boys achieved scholarships to leading secondary schools in 2022. As a small school, CCCS is renowned for its family-oriented approach and close co-operation between parents and staff. 3 Brewer Street, Oxford, OX1 1QW 01865 242561 www.cccs.org.uk / registrar@cccs.org.uk (Mrs Laura Kemp, Registrar)
Situated in Abingdon, The Manor Preparatory School is an independent, co-educational day school that welcomes children aged 2-11. The school offers a wonderfully happy, creative and varied learning experience where every child is challenged, cherished and inspired to reach their potential. The Manor’s most recent ISI Inspection saw the school receive the highest possible rating of ‘Excellent’ in all areas. Every child is encouraged to push themselves to new challenges; the school aims to foster a ‘have a go’ attitude ensuring the children always give their best resulting in outstanding results. Headmaster, Alastair Thomas, says “Our job is to prepare children for life, not just senior school and to ensure they collect happy memories along the way.” With an excellent record of ensuring Year 6 leavers move on to the senior school that is perfectly suited to them. Scholarships, awards and exhibitions feature highly with an impressive 27 offered to Year 6 pupils in 2022. Faringdon Road, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX13 6LN 01235 858458 / 01235 858462 (admissions) www.manorprep.org / admissions@manorprep.org (Mrs Nicole Burroughs)
Come and joinOpenMorningus. Saturday 8th October 9:30am - 12:00pm Large, purpose-designed Nursery & Reception Superb facilities including a thriving performing arts theatre Oxfordshire’s leading independent co-educational day school 5 Science labs with Junior and Senior specialist teaching Over 100 coachingfacilitiesExcellentofferandextra-curriculardifferentclubsactivitiesonsportswithelite Excellence in Independent Education for Boys and Girls aged 3-18 Book your guided tour online: www.cranfordhouse.net Cranford House 180x130mm SEP Families AW.indd 1 16/08/2022 15:15
Radley
September, 10.00am-12.00pm
Bagley Wood, Nr. Boars Hill, Oxford, OX1 5ND 01865 730771 (Admissions / Catriona Wholewww.chandlingspst.orgPitt)/office@chandlingspst.orgSchoolSeptemberOpenMorning:Saturday24th
Oxfordshire 13 School Spotlights
We are a small school, big enough to offer a wide range of subjects and activities, but small enough to mean that every child can receive individual attention throughout their time at school, and are given regular opportunities to represent OLA in a wide range of activities. Our teachers ignite pupils with fun and innovative learning, ensuring that they are fully engaged in the academic life thus achieving excellent results. The co-curricular experience we offer is an essential part of day-to-day school life. All pupils are encouraged to take part in a wide range of confidence- developing activities, including sport, drama, art and music. Our outstanding highly praised pastoral care is at the centre of everything we do. We 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. Radley Road, Abingdon-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, OX14 3PS 01235 524658 www.ola.org.uk / admissions@ola.org.uk (01235 544808) Whole School Open Morning: Saturday 24th September, 10.00am – 12.30pm
familiesonline.co.uk Families
Cranford House is a warmly welcoming, small co-educational independent day school for pupils aged 3 to 18. Their Nursery, Junior, Senior and Sixth Form departments work in tandem to provide the best possible learning outcomes for each stage of their pupils’ education and a seamless progression throughout their time at school. Set in beautiful grounds in the heart of Moulsford village, Cranford House are proud to offer their pupils a wealth of opportunities and superb facilities for sport, science, the creative and performing arts, and much more besides. They are renowned for their strong focus on pastoral care and the positive, supportive relationships between pupils and staff. They are fully committed to ensuring their happy, friendly school is a place that pupils look forward to coming to each day. As the leading co-educational school in the region, they aim to provide their pupils with a progressive education fit for the 21st century. Pupils leave Cranford House as well-rounded individuals with a host of achievements under their belts. Willow Court Lane, Moulsford, Oxfordshire, OX10 9HT 01491 651218 www.cranfordhouse.net / admissions@cranfordhouse.net Open Morning: Saturday 8th October, 9.30am – 12.00pm
Cranford House
Chandlings Prep School Would your children like to ride a pony to start the day? Or visit the vegetable garden to learn about where food comes from? At Chandlings Prep School boys and girls (aged 2 – 11) discover that learning happens everywhere, not just in the classroom. They can learn teambuilding on the bluebell wood rope course, walk pygmy goats, and be creative in the food tech and DT rooms, mini amphitheatre and music suite. Whatever they do, results show that children are happy here, with 100% of our leavers (2022) getting into their first choice of highly acclaimed secondary schools and 27% receiving scholarships. Curious, Creative and Independent is how we would describe children at Chandlings Prep. Come and find out why at our September Open Morning and experience Chandlings in action.
Our Lady’s Abingdon
Radley offers an environment for boys to grow in self-confidence, thrive academically, and make the most of an enormous range of opportunities. The door is open to any talented candidate, regardless of their means or their background and we hope that we will have many applicants who wish to join us in the pursuit of excellence. A Radley education is about independent thought and learning with enthusiasm. It is about cultural awareness and academic ambition. It is about learning to live with others and preparation for the world beyond its gates. We are looking for boys who have curiosity and aspiration; creativity and critical thought; strength and humility; leadership and collaboration; adaptability and resilience. If you have a talented boy, who excels academically or at music, sport, art or drama then we have bursary support available up to 100% of the fees. Radley College, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 2HR 01235 543000 www.radley.org.uk / SLL.Langdale@radley.org.uk (Admissions) Open Days: Saturday 1st and 8th October, 10.00am – 1.15pm Sixth Form Open Day: Saturday 8th October, 11.30am – 3.00pm
Included with a visit to the Museum’s Galleries BOOK TICKETS NOW www.storymuseum.org.uk | 01865 807600registered charity 1107809 blenheimpalace.com/autumn AUTUMNFEST_ILLUSTRATION_87x130.pdf 1 09/08/2022 12:17 Enjoy Cogges all year round Valid for 12 months Visit as often as you wish Get discounts on selected events Order your Season Ticket cogges.org.uk Cogges Manor Farm, Church Lane, Witney OX28 3LA (Free car park OX28 3FR) Manor Farm
Families Clubs & Classes familiesonline.co.uk Families Oxfordshire 15
Perform drama, dance and singing classes
MASTER BUILDERS CLUBBRICK BUILDING WORKSHOPS FOR CHILDREN
WHEN: Autumn Term starts September WHERE: West Oxford Community Centre, Oxford: Wednesdays; Abingdon: Saturdays and Thursdays; Didcot: Fridays; Wallingford: Saturdays; Bicester: Thursdays; Ruskin College, Oxford: Saturdays Confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. Classes are designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Every child can try a free no-obligation class, visit enquiries@perform.org.uk020www.perform.org.ukwww.perform.org.uk/try72559120
St. Hugh’s Tennis Camp WHERE: St Hugh’s School, Faringdon WHEN: 17th – 21st October, 10.00 – 16.00 Get the most out of school holidays at this high energy 5-day camp. Working in individual agespecific groups, the accredited coaches organise drills, mini ageForchallenges.andteammatches,gamesindividualchildren5-15 01865tennisoxfordshire.com/camps689754
Gymnastics
Rugbytots WHERE: Various locations across Fun,Oxfordshirestructured 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 www.rugbytots.co.uksession
WHERE: Oxford Playhouse WHEN: Autumn Term starts 20th September, 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
Playhouse Youth Theatre
PerformingStagecoach Arts
WHERE: Mathnasium Learning Centres Summertown, N. Oxford WHEN: Monday-Thursday & WhereSaturdayMaths makes sense! By producing a tailor-structured 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. northoxfordwww.mathnasium.co.uk/01865655968
WHERE: Venues throughout Oxfordshire WHEN: Autumn Term starts BringSeptemberoutthe 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 twoweek trial. www.stagecoach. co.uk 01483 247404 COMIC CLUB WHERE: The Story Museum WHEN: 24th September and 29th October, 11.00 – 12.30 Develop your comic making skills. Awesome comic artist Neill Cameron will be on hand to offer helpful advice and tips. Ages 8 – 11. £11.00 whats-on/www.storymuseum.org.uk/01865790050
What’s On Things to do this Autumn - drama, music & sport something for everyone in Oxfordshire
WHERE: Various locations WHEN: September and October Master Builders Club fun workshops start with a short story which is “brought to life” through the models they build. They provide 1000’s of LEGO® or DUPLO® bricks in a calm and supportive environment along with the imaginative stimulus to transform a room into a world of creativity. www.masterbuildersclub.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
Small friendly school | Family community Small classes | Fun and innovative learning Excellent pastoral care | Catholic Christian ethos 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 Register at www.ola.org.uk/visit for all Open Mornings OLAMorningsOpen 24 September 2022 23 November 2022 26 April 2023 OLA A+ Education A4 July22.indd 1 28/07/2022 19:03:11
