Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield May-June 2016

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MAY - JUNE 2016 ISSUE 33

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Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

…for families with children aged 0 - 12

Great Days Out Education Clubs, Classes and Activities

10%

Tuition Plus

‘Helping students achieve their true potential’

Professional Tutoring Literacy & Numeracy Free Initial Assessment Harvest Fields Centre, B75 5TJ (Tues & Sat) Mere Green Centre, B75 5BT (Wed & Thurs) Tel: 07592 556 452

Email: info@tuition-plus.co.uk

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Perfect gift for Father’s Day 0121 686 0338

Visit our website for further details

DISCO

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UNT

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Bubble Tea & Frozen Yogurt

ERT

Beautiful 3D casts Web: www.momspresent.co.uk Email: mail@momspresent.co.uk

Beautiful 3D casts of baby’s hands and feet in an attractive presentation frame

Twist Cafe, 3 Ethel Street, B2 4BG FB, Instagram: twistcafeuk, Twitter: cafe_twist

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

@familiesbirm

Academic Excellence

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Academic Excellence, ‘proven not promised’ R

ecent research by Save the Children verifies what we at Academic Excellence have always known… that under achievement amongst children can be prevented by early intervention. Quality provision of education in the early years is vital to the long-term development of our children.

At Academic Excellence it is our mission to stimulate, nurture and develop young minds in a warm and positive atmosphere. We challenge our learners, but also they experience fun in their learning.

We offer excellence, in all that we provide, including: • Qualified teaching staff, with enhanced DBS clearance, who can support children with a range of learning styles.

• Safe environment.

• A range of modern foreign languages including Mandarin.

• Quality childcare 7 days a week.

• Convenient central location, Edgbaston.

• A higher standard of education from the nursery years to GCSE/ A level • Freshly cooked meals on site.

• Pick up arranged directly from school, for school age children.

• Educational Excellence with convenience.

Our parents agree that we make their lives easier. Due to their demand, we’ve extended our provision to include our new bespoke Early Years provision now open 7am-7pm seven days a week! academicexcellence.org.uk academictotsnursery.co.uk 0121 454 2858

Academic Tuition Register now for our academic tuition and ask if you are eligible for up to 80% off fees.

Some assisted places available via Academic Support Charity.

Maths, English, Sciences, Music, Languages (including Mandarin).

11+, Independent school exams, A Level, GCSEs, IGCSEs. Tuition from £10 per hour.

registered

Academic Tots Nursery, Edgbaston

Limited spaces available for 0 - 5 years Get your child school-ready at a nursery that makes learning fun!

Qualified teacher-led nursery Teaching literacy and numeracy through play Daily focus on foreign languages with native speakers Fun, friendly and family atmosphere Childcare vouchers accepted.

Fifteen hours per week free for 2, 3 and 4 year olds.

Application for places now open: Call Natalie at Academic Tots on 0121 454 2858 Funded spaces available

follow us on

facebook

Our Edgbaston centre provides: After-school places (pick up from schools within a 3 mile radius), holiday club provision & intense revision courses.

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Issue 33

www.academicexcellence.org.uk

www.academictotsnursery.co.uk

9 George Road, Edgbaston, B15 1NP

For all enquiries call: 0121 454 2858

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Contents In this Issue...

Hello and welcome to our action-packed May-June issue of Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield.

There is so much happening in our fantastic region of the UK at this time of the year. The late spring leading to the early summer is a great time to get out and about, have fun, and make special memories with our young families.

The News section of this issue informs you of the Foodie Festival at Cannon Hill Park, of musical opportunities with Ex Cathedra, and of many other events in the region.

Exciting news! Busy Parents Network has won the highly prestigious Best Family Event Award. Read all about it on page 4.

To help with those important education decisions for your children you will have plenty to mull over with our choices of tutoring companies, grammar schools and independent schools.

We know it’s important for our children to have playtime as well as work time, so you will see a wealth of clubs, classes, activities, days out, theatre shows, and ideas for half term fun.

Wondering how to spoil Dad on Father’s Day? Check out the Family section of this issue.

Remember to tell everyone you read about the best local information right here – in Families Magazine!

Suzanne Brown, Editor

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

4

4 News 6 Clubs &

Classes 7 Fun times at Half Term 8 Family Time 10 Education 12 Competitions 13 What’s On

7 10 13

Award-Winning 11+ Specialists

11+ Tuition For children in Year 4 & 5

Is your child ready for the 11+ exam?

2 Steps to 11+ Success

1

12 Week Intensive Revision Course

Personalised daily tests Picture from Shutterstock

Next Issue:

Advertisers: Book now for our July-August issue.

Call 07807 352087 or email editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk before Friday 10th June 2016 Design: MattWaltonDesign@icloud.com (email) Print: Warners Midlands PLC, Manor Lane, Bourne, Lincs. PE10 9PH Copyright Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield, May 2016. ©Families Birmingham is part of a registered trademark. Families® Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Magazine Birmingham are protected by copyright. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publisher and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents, nor for any consequence.

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Find out why over 98% of parents recommend us

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3

News

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Network wins National Award F

AMILY festival organisers Busy Parents Network has just won a national award for its outstanding contribution to the 2015 Get Creative Family Arts Festival.

Busy Parents Network director Sarah Mullen accepting the Best Event award at the 2015 Get Creative Family Arts Festival

Bournville BookFest – Birmingham’s The Big Draw – Every Picture Tells a only children’s book festival – sold Story was a live “draw-along” with almost 4,000 tickets and attracted children sketching along with local some of Britain’s best loved children’s artist Kate Hindley to live piano authors and storytellers including music played by an internationally Nick Sharratt. acclaimed Russian pianist from Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Busy Parents Network’s next event, Exhibition. run in collaboration with Selly Manor Museum, is Magical Lands Run in collaboration with the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, it has won a Best and Enchanted Places. Featuring fairy tale characters, sword-fighting Family Event award at the 2015 Get demonstrations, potion making in a Creative Family Arts Festival.

Wizard School, birds of prey and an Busy Parents Network is a not-forimmersive Narnia experience, it takes profit social enterprise. It was set up place on Saturday 14th May and is the

by Sarah Mullen four years ago to perfect event for children aged 3-12 create affordable, educational and years old. Tickets available online at above all fun days out for families to enjoy together. Last month’s www.facebook.com/BusyParentsNetwork

Foodies Festival

Birmingham Cannon Hill Park, 3rd – 5th June With temptation wafting from every direction you’ll be spoilt for choice for where to start, but we recommend a trip to the Aga Rangemaster Chefs Theatre to watch Birmingham’s culinary elite cook their favourite dishes, and little foodies can explore their taste buds and learn basic cooking skills in the Childrens’ Cookery School.

Head to the Producers Market to shop and sample from over 120 awardwinning artisan producers before visiting the Street Food Avenue to feast on flavours from around the world.

Bake Off fans can watch champion Nadiya Hussain whip-up delicious summer showstoppers in the Cake & Bake Theatre.

After a day of feasting and fun, soak in the atmosphere with live music from the Entertainment Stage and a glass of bubbly or refreshing cocktail from the Giant Pimm’s Teapot or double-decker BarBus. For tickets visit www.foodiesfestival.com Other regional festivals: Lunar Festival near Solihull, 3 – 5 June – lunarfestival.co.uk; Let’s Rock Birmingham ‘The Retro Festival’ in Sandwell Valley Country Park, 11 June - letsrockbirmingham.com; Lichfield Festival 1 – 9 July, lichfieldfestival.org; Music for Youth National Festival, THSH and CBSO Centre, Birmingham 5 – 9 July, mfy.org.uk; Wizzafest ‘The Family Friendly Music Festival’ in Droitwich 21 – 24 July, wizzafest.com

photo by jessicathomasphotography.co.uk

Prepare for your taste buds to be tickled again this summer as Foodies Festival returns to Birmingham with a lip-smacking feast at Cannon Hill Park 3rd to 5th June.

A Hidden Gem of a Nursery Selly Oak Nursery School, a long-established nursery, is located in the heart of Selly Oak just off the Bristol Road, close to Selly Oak railway station. With caring staff, who have a genuine interest in the development of every child attending, they have been rated as ‘Outstanding’ in their last three OFSTED inspections. Full and part time places are available for 3 & 4 year olds.

Selly Oak Nursery has: Ample parking for drop-off/pickup; Before and after school provision; Forest school; Nutritional home cooked food prepared on site.

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sellyoak-nur.bham.sch.uk, 0121 472 1700 Issue 33

News

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

The complete singing package for your children Do you have a child who loves to sing? Birmingham-based music charity Ex Cathedra may well have the answer, with its singing offer for schools and talented young singers.

Ex Cathedra’s Education Director Rebecca Ledgard says, “Singing engages the whole body, ignites the soul and transforms individuals into communities, so we seek to inspire a love of singing through dynamic, innovative and inclusive projects in schools, hospitals and the wider community, and to provide opportunities for talented young singers to realise their full potential”.

Singing Playgrounds develops a singing culture in primary schools by training a group of children to lead their peers in playing singing games in the playground, while Singing Connections uses songs and singing games to enrich learning in literacy and numeracy. Both programmes provide high-quality

‘Bubble-licious’ and tasty!

There’s a new taste sensation in town – Twist Café. Located in central Birmingham, between New Street train station and Victoria Square, you can be sure of a warm welcome and a family atmosphere. Their main menu feature is Bubble Tea, which is a refreshing juice drink (not actually tea), made with natural syrup, the bubble (also called juice ball) pops in your

resources and offer training and activity projects for schools.

Ex Cathedra complements its schools and community projects by running its own training choirs for talented young singers, the Ex Cathedra Academies of Vocal Music, offering outstanding tuition and unique experiences including performances with Ex Cathedra choir in venues such as Symphony Hall.

So if you’d like your children to get involved in singing, get in touch at education@excathedra.co.uk. And if you think your children’s school would benefit from Singing Playgrounds or Singing Connections, you can direct a member of staff to the website: www.excathedra.co.uk

mouth, and is a huge favourite with Twist Café’s youngest customers! Twist’s frozen yogurt tastes like a delicious ice cream, made with fresh ingredients… and fat free!”.

But don’t take our word for it! Visit their website twistcafe.co.uk, like them on facebook, or better still, go and visit Twist Café at 3 Ethel St, B2 4BG.

Get out-and-about to a Family Show!

There is a wealth of entertainment across the region during May and June.

At the Birmingham NEC Sports Show there will be more than 35 ‘have a go’ sports, sporting heroes from different disciplines and 30 national governing bodies. There is much evidence which proves the huge physical and mental benefits of exercise for youngsters, so why not bring the family along to unlock their sporting prowess? 25-26 June, NEC Birmingham, sports-show.co.uk

Slightly further afield, in Malvern, is the annual Royal Three Counties Show – England’s biggest livestock, fresh produce, and equine show.

It is a fantastic day out with stalls and more than enough to keep the whole family entertained all day.

17 – 19 June, threecounties.co.uk, 01684 584924 Birmingham NEC shows: Baby Show 13-15 May; Good Food Show 16 - 19 June; Autism Show 24-25 June Issue 33

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Clubs and Classes

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

It’s Showtime at Big Arena Performing Arts TIME TO ENTER A NEW WORLD Acting, singing and dance classes for 4 to 18 year olds.

Find out more and start your child’s journey today stagecoach.co.uk/ edgbaston 01926 651159 edgbaston @stagecoach.co.uk

E

xciting news! Big Arena Performing Arts has returned, bigger and better than before. Their classes now include dance, alongside their acting and singing classes.

The new director, Emma Parker, trained at University of Wolverhampton.

Previously, she was Assistant Vocal Coach for the Glee Choir at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre and was a singing teacher at Wolverhampton Stage School. Emma has taught Music and Drama, and gives private vocal tuition.

Big Arena Performing Arts, who offer classes for 4 – 16 years, are supported by a strong new team of performing arts instructors. They are currently working towards a production of that well loved Disney tale The Jungle Book, and are inviting your child to come along and take part in the exciting all-singing, all-acting, and all-dancing fun.

Rehearsals are on Saturdays, 10 – 1pm, United Reformed Church, 1 Brassington Avenue, Sutton Coldfield, B73 6AA £5 for 4–6 year olds; £9 for 7–16 year olds. Sibling discount available.

07855 923371; emmaparker-bigarena@hotmail.com; www.bigarenaperformingarts.co.uk

DANCE & DRAMA CENTRAL STAGE SCHOOL Tap Street Jazz Musical Theatre Solihull: Adult & Children’s Classes Free places for nursery children Tel: Claire 07939 529 227 info@centralstageschool.co.uk

DUBARRIE SCHOOL OF DANCE Ballet, Tap and Jazz age 2 ½ + Branches in Yardley and Solihull Telephone: 0121 744 1422 www.dubarrieschoolofdance.co.uk

Irish dancing classes for boys and girls aged 4 to adult Classes held in Selly Oak, Kings Norton and Redditch Call Louise on 07790 876 345 for information

www.granarince.co.uk

MASQUERADE MUSICAL THEATRE Youth Theatre Group, Age 4+

Clubs & Classes

DIRECTORY

MUSIC BIR

1-to-1 drum tuition, City Centre location M I N G H A M Rock School grades 1-8.

Ages 4 upwards.

Tel: 0121 503 5849 www.birminghamdrumschool.co.uk

SWIMMING TUITION Swimming lessons from 3.5 years to adults.

Lessons held in Solihull, Olton, Shirley & Acocks Green.

Learn the 4 strokes for all swimmers using fun themes!

Tel: 0121 405 0550 www.makeasplash.co.uk

Garretts Green Lane, Sheldon, B26 2SA

Telephone: 0121 722 3761 www.masquerademusicaltheatre.com

Solihull Young Dancers

Ballet, Tap & Modern Dancing Classes from age 2 ½ + Tel: Kate on 07722 732678

www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk

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Promote your little one’s natural reflexes and teach them to swim. Babies from 6 weeks & older can join the fun!

Tel: 0121 405 0440 www.waterhugs.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL 07807 352087

Ages 4 - 16 years Tel: 07855 923371 Open: Saturdays 10am - 1pm Sutton Coldfield www.bigarenaperformingarts.co.uk

Where everyone's a star!

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www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Half Term Fun

Looking for outstanding childcare this THE H>¶F AB!$ half term?

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he school holidays are a time for children to have fun whilst keeping active. Super Camps gives children the opportunity to do just that, with a range of camps and courses to suit everyone.

The camps are full of great new activities for 2016, with a guarantee of water activities at all camps during the summer.

You can also rest assured knowing that your children are getting the best care, having received yet another ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating in 2016.

Camps run from 8am – 6pm for ages 4-14.

01235 467300; www.supercamps.co.uk

FROM

£30 PER DAY

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WITH AC�IV�TIES FOR AGES 4 - 1�

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For Family Thrillseekers everywhere!

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elebrate summer by going down to Ackers Adventure. They offer a variety of outdoor pursuits all year round for all abilities. At Ackers you can try different water sports and snow sports, archery, jungle challenge, zip line, and much more.

Ackers’ School Holiday Childcare programme gives youngsters the chance to be out in the fresh air, developing their team building skills and reasoning skills. They will find themselves achieving more than they ever thought possible! Pre-booking essential.

Ackers is an official approved provider for Go Canoeing Guided Tours and Taster Sessions. Throughout the year they will be running a range of taster sessions and tours for families. Why not join in on the Grand Union Canal journey and view industrial Birmingham from the water? 0121 772 5111; bookings@ackers-adventure.co.uk; ackers-adventure.co.uk Issue 33

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Family Fun

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

THE UK’s NO.1 FOREST ADVENTURE at Cannock Forest & Wyre Forest

ke FAMCWY Bookoracatll g08o45a09p4e87.c63o.u quot †

*Offer valid until 30th November 2016, excludes Saturdays and Corporate Events. Discount code must be entered at time of booking. Only valid at Cannock Forest & Wyre Forest. Forest Segways only available at Cannock Forest. †Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge. Participation and supervision ratios apply - please see our website.

10

% O F F PER PERSON

*

Loads to see and do!

Tudor Weekend

Blakesley Hall 29 & 30 May

SEA MONSTERS & DINOSAURS Thinktank 28 May – 4 June

birminghammuseums.org.uk/whats-on Funded by:

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Issue 33

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery | Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum | Aston Hall | Blakesley Hall | Museum of the Jewellery Quarter | Sarehole Mill | Soho House | Weoley Castle Ruins

Family

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Mom’s Present make gifts for Dads too!

F

ather’s Day is on Sunday 19th June, and it can be a struggle to come up with a great gift idea. Comedy socks, a quirky tie, or a pocket hanky are the customary gifts our poor dads have come to expect.

2008|2009

29008|2009 002|8002

RUSSELL NURSERY SCHOOL

Children aged from 3 months to 5 years.

Ofsted Outstanding

Instead, how about giving something more personalised that he can treasure forever? How about a quality gift of a 3D cast of his child’s, or grandchild’s, hand and footprints set in bronze, silver or gold?

The Mom’s Present ‘Bespoke’ service is second to none, visiting clients in the comfort of their own home or, if they prefer, at Mom’s Present’s premises in Sutton Coldfield. Completed presentation frames are delivered to your door in just 2 weeks.

• Qualified friendly staff.

• Daily home cooking.

• Interactive Whiteboard/Table.

• CCTV cameras in every room.

• Free Grant places available for age 2, 3 & 4 years

Mom’s Present 3D casts capture a moment in time and preserve it forever in a beautiful presentation frame along with a photograph – either of one child, or of siblings. Attractive casts can be made of older children’s prints as well as babies’.

For the dads who love DIY, maybe they’d like to make a presentation with a casting kit set?

130 Russell Rd, Hall Green, B’ham B28 8SQ

Go online to see why Mom’s Present is regularly recommended by word of mouth, and why they have received 100% positive feedback on eBay.

www.momspresent.co.uk | mail@momspresent.co.uk | 0121 686 0338

Tel: 0121 777 4902 Other sites

621 Fox Hollies Road, Hall Green, Birmingham.

B28 9DW Tel: 0121 777 3778

Small World Nursery, 975 Stratford Road, Hall Green, Birmingham B28 8BG Tel: 0121 693 3071

Search ‘Mom’s Present’ on Ebay and Amazon Visit Mom’s Present at The Baby Show, 13-15 May at the NEC, Birmingham

What are the barriers to quality family time?

by Gemma Francis The average modern family enjoys only 38 MINUTES of quality time together on a weekday.

A study of 2,000 parents, conducted by ‘Hollywood Bowl Family Fun’, discovered the main distractions getting in the way of family time were: - Household chores - Anti-social working hours - Children’s homework and extra-curricular activities - Everyone in the family is too busy on their phone, computer or TV However, more than half of parents are actively trying to set aside more time to spend with their children. Eating at restaurants is the most popular choice of family activity, followed by going to the countryside, and playing board games.

Ofsted OUTSTANDING in last three inspections We offer full and part time places for 3 & 4 year olds.

FREE places are still available for September Come & see what makes us so special!

Tel: 0121 472 1700 26 Tiverton Road, Selly Oak B29 6BP (Just off Bristol Road near Aldi)

Providing outstanding nursery education since 1904

1,500

If a rewarding job with true security that provides you with the work/life balance, flexibility and control over your own destiny sounds appealing – contact Carolyn Rose today.

You can work part time, around your existing work or family commitments and there is no financial investment.

Find out how Carolyn’s children can always be her priority – working part-time hours to suit her family commitments – you too could change your life.

Contact Carolyn for a FREE information pack on

07789 916278 or email: carolynrose121@gmail.com Forever Living Products are a very proud & ethical company who pride ourselves on good practice.

It is illegal for a promoter or a participant in a trading scheme to persuade anyone to make a payment by promising benefits from getting others to join a scheme.Do not be misled by claims that high earnings are easily achieved.

Issue 33

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Education

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Singing Connections

Singing Playgrounds

Singing to support literacy & numeracy

Singing for the whole school community

Girls’ Academy - Years 9-13

Boys’ Academy - Years 8/9-13

Children’s Choir - Years 2-3

Junior Academy - Years 4-8

Ex Cathedra Academies of Vocal Music www.excathedra.co.uk | education@excathedra.co.uk

Award-winning tuition maths & English ages 5 -14

New skills Confidence Enthusiasm

Free trial session - book today!

Handsworth 0121 296 4436

Harborne 0121 647 4394

Yardley 0121 306 9455

Wylde Green Kings Heath 0121 661 7409 0121 647 5159

Shirley 0121 647 4395

Oldbury 0121 647 6369

www.explorelearning.co.uk 10

Issue 33

Choir | Consort | Orchestra | Education

Jeffrey Skidmore OBE Artistic Director & Conductor

Education

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Go Learn, Go Out, Go Ape I

t is widely reported that children play and learn outdoors less than previous generations. Reasons for this include the commercialisation of play and parental concerns about safety. Many UK schools now include forest-school outdoor activities in their curriculum as it’s believed these can raise children’s academic standards and sense of well-being.

Similarly, outdoor learning environments, such as Go Ape, allow children to freely learn about risk assessment, problem solving, estimating and spatial awareness through trial and error… whilst having a great time!

Extracts taken from, Peace of Mind: A Book of Calm for Busy Mums, published

by Hodder & Stoughton by Georgina Rodgers Live life more adventurously at Go Ape - goape.co.uk

VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS

11+ VERBAL REASONING VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS Expand your antonym and synonym knowledge and achieve a higher 11+ score

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

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

Walmley Study Centre Deepa Budhiraja 0121 2432692

Recommended by tutors for the verbal reasoning element of the Durham CEM test

www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

OPEN DAY Saturday 21st May 11am - 2pm Years 5 - 11

Issue 33

11

Competitions

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Win a family ticket to The Core Theatre’s ballet ‘Pinocchio’ The Core Theatre (formerly Solihull Arts Complex) is giving away one set of family tickets (two adults, two children) to their ballet production of ‘Pinocchio’ on Thursday 2nd June, 2.30pm.

Come along to be delighted by this classic story of the wooden puppet, whose greatest wish is to become a real live boy. Watch how, along with his father Gepetto, The Blue Fairy and Jiminy Cricket, Pinocchio overcomes difficulties and faces up to consequences, all in the quest to make his dream come true. thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk, 0121 704 6962 Busy Parents Network director Sarah Mullen accepting the Best Event award at the 2015 Get Creative Family Arts Festival

To be in with a chance of winning a set of 4 tickets for the 2.30pm showing of the production on Thursday 2nd June (during half term) log on to: www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk/win before May 25 and answer this simple question: What is the name of Pinocchio’s father? Is it: (a) Gandolfo

(b) Gianni

(c) Gepetto

Calling all Young Writers!

Pinocchio by Ballet Theatre UK

Thurs 2 June. Tickets £18 (£17, £12 child) Shows at 2.30pm & 7.30pm in the Theatre (age 4+) A beautiful introduction to ballet for new or young audiences. Sparkling costumes and beautiful music.

The Chris & Pui Show

Sat 4 June.Tickets £12/£10

CBeebies favourite duo return with fun songs, rhymes & lots of silliness and joining in!

Shows at 11am & 2pm in Theatre

Outdoor live shows

26-27 July in Brueton Park.

Adv. Tickets £10/£9. Adaptation of David Walliams best-selling book live outdoors in the park.

Bring your own seat/blanket.

CBEEBIES FUN! www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

Box Office: 0121 704 6962 (10.30am - 4pm) 12

Issue 33

Do you know a young author? The National Young Writers’ Awards judges are looking for the best short story of under 500 words based around this year’s theme of ‘The Mash-Up’. The winner of the competition will receive £500 of books for their school and a trip to Disneyland Paris!

The annual awards, run by tuition company Explore Learning, are now in their 8th year. This year’s judge is renowned author of the Charlie and Lola series of books, Lauren Child.

To enter pick up an entry form from your nearest Explore Learning centre, or visit www.explorelearning.co.uk/youngwriters

Baby Show tickets to give away!

Win a pair of tickets to the Baby Show, Birmingham NEC, 13 – 15 May To enter competition go to familiesbirmingham.co.uk/win before Tues 10th May and answer this question: What date does The Baby Show 2016, Birmingham begin?

Is it: (A) 13th May (B) 13th June (C) 13th July

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Birds, Bees & Butterflies 30th May - 3rd June Join us this half-term for some family fun in the beautiful Birmingham Botanical Gardens!

We have activities including music, games, crafts and nature trails.

A fun day out for all the family

Always something new to see and do

Butterfly House Re-opens 28th May

See website for full events listing

Visit our website for more information

birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk Find us on:

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Great Value, Family Ticket only ÂŁ18.50*

else can you driv Where e a train, fly a plane o r race a car?

*Online price

3 Mary Ann St, St Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Square, Birmingham B3 1BG To book tickets visit

www.wonderfulworldtrainsplanes.co.uk Issue 33

13â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

What’s On

Like us on

FACEBOOK Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

HALF TERM Family Fun

Clowning Around

Dates: 28 May - 05 June Time: 10am – 5pm Admission: from £15.95 for Adults; from £7.45 for Children; free for under 5’s Age: All ages welcome Take the family to Clown School this half term!

ACKERS ADVENTURE Address: Golden Hillock Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham, B11 2PY ackers-adventure.co.uk 0121 772 5111 Pre-booking essential.

BLAKESLEY HALL

Bushcraft Family Taster Day

Date: Tues 31st May Time: 10am – 1.15pm Admission: £80 for 2 adults and 2 children A morning of family bushcraft skills.

Climbing Taster Session for Families

Date: Weds 1st June Time: 10am – 1.15pm Admission: £80 for 2 adults and 2 children This family climbing session will cover equipment, knots, basic climbing skills and abseiling.

Canoe/Kayak Family Taster

Date: Thurs 2nd June Time: 10am – 1.15pm Admission: £80 for 2 adults and 2 children A family introduction to Canoeing and Kayaking.

ASTON HALL

Trinity Rd, Aston, Birmingham B6 6JD birminghammuseums.org.uk/aston 0121 675 4722

Family Craft Activity: Masquerade Masks

Date: 1st June Times: Drop-in between 11am - 3pm Admission: £1.00 per child Masquerade mask making.

BLACK COUNTRY LIVING MUSEUM

Tipton Road, Dudley, DY1 4SQ bclm.co.uk 0121 557 9643

Antiques, Furnishings, Weddings, Wood-burners, Giftware, Curtains, Blinds

Interests

Tack & Animal Feed, Giftware, Toys, Candles, Needlework & Bunting, Florist, Wood-turning, Pottery Parties Shop

Food and Drink

Licensed Restaurant, Chocolate Shop, Tea Rooms.

TLC – Tea leaves & Coffee Beans, Coffee Machines

19 June 15 May & ed in the R Barn

Fashion

Knitwear, Jewellery, Handbags, Wedding, Cocktail and Daywear, corsetry, Theatre Costume, Leather Bags, Wallets, Belts

Fun

The Children’s Farm & Parties, Pets Corner.

Open all year (inc Bank Holidays) Tuesday to Sunday 10am-5pm Tel: 024 7639 4433 www.hoar-park.co.uk B4114 Nr Ansley, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV10 0QU

BARBER INSTITUTE OF FINE ARTS

Date: 31st May Time: 12.30 – 2.30pm, drop-in Admission: £2 per child Make a mask of a Tudor king or queen.

mac birmingham

Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, B12 9QH macbirmingham.co.uk 0121 446 3232 macbirmingham half term courses (31st May – 3rd June) include a wide range of arts, crafts, dance, photography, singing, and pottery classes… and much more.

Visit their website for more details.

Crafty Kids Workshops

Dates: 1 – 2 June Times: 1 – 3pm Admission: £4 per child A family make-and-take activity led by a professional designer.

Creative Sunday Workshops

Dates in May: 1st, 8th, 22nd, 29th Dates in June: 5th, 19th, 26th, Times: Ages 4 – 8 years: 11am – 12.30pm Ages 8 – 12 years:1.30 – 2pm Admission: £5 per session At each session children will be inspired to create wonderful piece of art using a range of mediums and techniques.

Arts Awards Celebration Day

Date: 15th May Times 11am – 1pm, drop in anytime Admission: Free Age: All ages welcome Come along and help celebrate the achievements of Barber’s youngest artists.

Art fun, music activities… and cake!

Tamworth Castle, The Holloway, Tamworth, Staffs, B79 7NA tamworthcastle.co.uk 01827 709626

Half Term Activity Castle Quest

Dates: 30th May – 5th June Times: 11.30 – 4pm Admission: Adult £7.00, OAP £6, Child 5+ £4.50, Child 2-4 years £2.50, Child under 2 years free.

A series of search and collect challenges where children and teens collect items in order to reach an ultimate goal.

BIRMINGHAM CONTEMPORARY MUSIC GROUP CBSO Centre, Berkley Street, Birmingham, B1 2LF bcmg.org.uk/whats-on 0121 616 2616 info@bcmg.org.uk

1 Day, 1 Price, 8 Activities A great day full of Adventure for all !

Zip Wire, Kayak, Ski, Canoe, FanDrop, Climb, Archery & Jungle Challenge BBQ & Free Tobogganing th 30 April, 6th August & 1st October

Music Maze

(for 8-11 years), and

ZigZag Ensemble

School Holiday Programmes An array of Awesome Activities to try

Issue 33

University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TS barber.org.uk 0121 414 7333 education@barber.org.uk

TAMWORTH CASTLE

ThrillSeeker Activity Taster Days

14

Pikes and Muskets

Monarch Mask Making

Dates: 29th – 30th May Time: 11.00am - 4.00pm Admission: Adult £7; Child £2 A weekend of Tudor fun.

The Outdoor Professionals

every school holiday for 8-16 year olds! £30 pp per day, 10am till 4pm Pre booking essential for all activities 0121 772 5111 bookings@ackers-adventure.co.uk

Trinity Rd, Aston, Birmingham, B6 6JD birminghammuseums.org.uk/aston 0121 675 4722

Tudor Weekend

75-80 Vyse St, Birmingham B18 6HA birminghammuseums.org.uk/jewellery 0121 348 8140

Craft Fairs

ASTON HALL

Date: 11th June Times: 11 – 4pm Admission: Adult £8.00; Concession: £6.00; Child (3-15): £3.00 Go along for a day all about the English Civil War. Muskets will fire and cannons will boom as soldiers prepare for battle!

Blakesley Rd, Birmingham, B25 8RN birminghammuseums.org.uk/blakesley 0121 348 8120

MUSEUM OF THE JEWELLERY QUARTER Interiors

OUT & ABOUT in May and June

Please check the organiser’s website in case of changes to schedule. Thank you

(for 12 – 16 years) Dates: Sunday 8th May; Sunday 5th June Time: 10am – 2.30pm Admission: Free Come along and join these free exciting music workshop days. Children of all musical abilities get the priceless experience of composing original pieces of music, working alongside the world class musicians of Birmingham Contemporary Music Group.

Pre-booking essential via website.

Follow us on

What’s On

TWITTER @familiesbirm

THSH - TOWN HALL /SYMPHONY HALL Town Hall, Victoria Square, Birmingham, B3 3DQ thsh.co.uk 0121 780 3333 Symphony Hall, Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EA thsh.co.uk 0121 345 0600

Musical Picnic

Venue: Symphony Hall Café Bar Dates: Tues 10 May, Sat 18 Jun Time: 10.30 Admission: Free Age Guidance: 0 – 7 years A free morning of musical entertainment the whole family can enjoy.

Star Wars and Beyond: A Space Spectacular

Venue: Symphony Hall Date: Sat 2nd July Time: 7.30pm Admission: £19.50 - £47.50 Back, due to popular demand, an intergalactic classical musical journey.

Box Office: 0121 236 4455 Enquiries: 0121 245 2000

First Stages Hansel And Gretel

Date: 21st May Time: 11.30am; 2pm Tickets: £9 Age: 5-9 years Listen, watch and take part in this interactive theatre experience.

First Stages - Ding Dong

Date: 11 June Times: 11.30am; 2pm Tickets: Adult £9; Child £6; Babes-in-arms £2 Age: 4 – 7 years Lots of fun – whilst learning how to tell the time.

BLUE ORANGE THEATRE

118 Great Hampton Street, Birmingham, B18 6AD blueorangetheatre.co.uk 0121 212 2643

20 Sheepcote Street, Brindleyplace, Birmingham, B16 8AE crescent-theatre.co.uk 0121 643 5858

Pinocchio

Date: 21 May Times: 2:30pm & 7:30pm Tickets: £17.50 (U16s: £13) A great show for all who love dance.

HIGHBURY THEATRE CENTRE

Sheffield Rd, Sutton Coldfield, B73 5HD highburytheatre.co.uk 0121 373 2761

Oliver!

Dates: 10 – 14 May Times: Evenings, 7.30pm; Sat Matinee, 2.30pm Tickets: from £12 This production includes the show stopping songs Oliver, Consider Yourself and Be Back Soon.

Non Zero One: Ground Control

Dates: Fri 3 – Sun 5 June Times: 12.30pm, 2.30pm; 5.30pm Tickets: £8 Age Guidance: 7+ The future of a new planet is firmly in the hands of the audience.

Strictly NO ADULTS ALLOWED!

Searching for the Happiness

Date: Sat 4 Jun Times: 11am Tickets: £5.50 Age Guidance: 5+ 8 year old Esmeralda is Searching For the Happiness.

Musical workshop after the show.

OLD REP THEATRE

47 Station St, Birmingham, B5 4DY 0121 359 9444 oldreptheatre.org.uk

mac birmingham

Cannon Hill Park, B’ham, B12 9QH macbirmingham.co.uk 0121 446 3232

Theatres & Shows

Motionhouse & Nofit State Circus: Block

NEW ALEXANDRA THEATRE Suffolk Street Queensway, Birmingham, B5 4DS atgtickets.com 0844 871 3011

Calamity Jane

Dates: 14 - 18 June Times: 7.30pm (Sat Matinee 2.30pm) Tickets: £12.90 - £23.90 Watch the antics of Calamity and the all singin’ all dancin’ cowfolk. Yeehaa!

CRESCENT THEATRE

Alice in Wonderland

Dates: 28 May - 11th June Times: 2.30pm; 6pm Tickets: £11 Tumble down the rabbit hole into the weird and wonderful Wonderland.

Venue: Birmingham Municipal Bank, Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2DR Dates: Fri 27 – Sat 28 May Time: 6pm; 8.30pm Tickets: £15 (£10) Age Guidance: All ages Twenty oversized blocks are used in this performance. Deconstructed and reformed into a variety of shapes – the possibilities are endless!

Bugsy Malone

Dates and Times: 5th & 6th May, 7.30pm; 7th May, 2.30 & 7.30pm Tickets: Adults from £11; Children from £9 Presented by Birmingham Youth Theatre.

Everybody loves that man… and that man, Bugsy Malone, has an important job to do. With only his wits to rely upon, can Bugsy save the day?

THE CORE THEATRE (SOLIHULL ARTS COMPLEX)

The Core Theatre Solihull Theatre Square, Touchwood, Homer Road, Solihull, B91 3RG thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk 0121 704 6962

Tiny Tots - Exploring Shape Gangsta Granny

Dates: Tue 28 June - Sat 02 July Times: 10.30; 1.30pm; 2.30pm; 7pm Tickets: £18.65 - £39.65 Join young Ben and his Granny as they embark upon an adventure of a lifetime!

BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME

Hurst Street, Southside, B5 4TB birminghamhippodrome.com 0844 338 5000

The Sound of Music

Dates: Tue 24 - Sat 28 May Times: 2pm; 2.30pm; 7.30pm Tickets: from £20 The true story of the world famous singing von Trapp family.

Mama Mia!

Dates: Tue 28 Jun - Sat 3 Sep Times: 2pm; 2.30pm; 7.30pm Tickets: from £28 Age: 3+ admitted A high energy smash-hit musical.

BIRMINGHAM REPERTORY THEATRE Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EP birmingham-rep.co.uk

Venue: The Courtyard Gallery Dates: Mon 9th May; Mon 16th May; Mon 23rd May Time: 10am Ticket: £10.50 for three sessions Age: 2 - 4 years These sessions give toddlers a fun and educational experience.

Pinocchio

Date: Thu 2 June Time: 2.30pm; 7.30pm Tickets: £18 full (£17 conc. £12 child) Join Pinocchio in his quest to realise his one dream… to become a real live boy.

The Chris & Pui Show

Date: Sat 4 June Time: 11am; 2pm Tickets: £12 adult, £10 child, £40 family ticket (2+2) via Box Office n/a online Age: 2+ years There will be songs, comedy and magic. A family show for children aged 2… to 102!

Tiny Tots - Exploring Number Venue: The Courtyard Gallery Date: 13th June; 20th June; 27th June; 4th July Time: 10am Tickets: £14 for four sections These sessions give toddlers a fun and educational experience.

Issue 33

15

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Open Days

Entrance Exams & Open Days Saturday 25th June 2016 9.45am - 12.00 noon /0-! 4 /% /+ "-

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