Families Cambridgeshire March April Easter and Spring issue
LAUNCHING SEPTEMBER 2025
Kimbolton are introducing a daily bus route from Cambridge
Dear Reader,
Spring is full of promise as we welcome the first signs of life after a long, cold winter. It won’t be long before we can all enjoy the simple pleasures of spring: the first daffodil, blossom on the trees, the warmth of the sun, fresh cut grass, newborn lambs and lots of family time over the Easter holidays.
There are plenty of places to visit this spring and over Easter time, including the Cambridge Science Centre with lots of (mostly free) events for families and children. We’ve done the hard work for you and selected plenty of things to see and do in our regular What’s On pages.
Happy Easter!
Wise words!
“The best way to make children good is to make them happy.” Oscar Wilde
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A FAMILY TICKET TO PIRATES LOVE UNDERPANTS AT KINGS LYNN CORN EXCHANGE 10TH-11TH MAY
Based on the beloved book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort, These pirates SO love underpants!
Join the swashbuckling party of pirates on their quest to find the fabled Pants of Gold for the Captain’s Treasure Chest!
Dodge hungry crocs beneath Long-John Bridge, bob upon the waves of Big Knickers Bay, spot sharks in fancy underpants and trek across Three Pants Ridge. Filled with music, puppetry and glittering pants of gold, arrr you ready to set sail for a family adventure?
Visit our Facebook page @ FamCambsMag to enter. Good luck!
What's in this issue?
EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336, editor@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk
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CAMBRIDGE FESTIVAL 2025, A
17-DAY
EXTRAVAGANZA
FROM 19 MARCH TO 4
APRIL
The Cambridge Festival is designed to captivate children and families with hundreds of hands-on activities, workshops, performances, and interactive experiences. With most events being free, the Festival offers an unforgettable opportunity to ignite curiosity and creativity in young minds.
The full programme is available on the website and bookings are open. Highlights include:
• Michael Rosen performing beloved stories and poems for families.
• Free Range Chemistry: No Added Chemicals with Dr Peter Wothers, featuring explosive, hands-on science demonstrations.
• Magma Rising: an immersive journey to Icelandic volcanoes.
• Interactive exhibits like Atomic Arcade, Cloud Factory, and Pirates’ Treasure Hunts.
• Workshops on everything from DNA to visual illusions, and much more!
The Cambridge Festival is a celebration of science, arts, creativity, and exploration, perfect for families eager to engage with cutting-edge research in an accessible, fun way. It is an annual celebration of the University of Cambridge’s research, innovation, and creativity. With activities designed to engage audiences of all ages, the Festival aims to make knowledge accessible, spark conversations, and inspire the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and explorers. For more information and to book tickets visit www.festival.cam.ac.uk
The Great British Spring Clean is back
Wherever you live, you and your family can make a difference to your local environment by sparing just a few hours to take part in the Great British Spring Clean from 21 to 6 April. The event aims to encourage people across the country, from individual volunteers – dubbed #LitterHeroes by the charity – to families, schools, groups of friends, businesses, community groups and local authorities to come together to clean up streets, parks, beaches and other public spaces.
It’s easy to get involved. Simply pledge to take part and either organise a litter-pick in your community or join an organised event. To find out more, join a local event, register to take part and access resources including a how-to guide, visit https://bit.ly/KBTspringclean
Little Moments Together launches
The government has launched a campaign to promote a new home learning environment for early years learning and development.
The Department for Education and Department for Health and Social Care’s Start for Life ‘Little Moments Together’ campaign aims to educate parents and carers about the importance of brain development in the first five years of a child’s life and the crucial role it plays.
Its goal is to help caregivers better understand how their baby communicates and how to build a secure, loving connection. Experts emphasise that mental health plays a significant role during the critical first 1,001 days of life, shaping a child’s overall well-being.
Parents can now access resources, including the Start for Life website and family hubs, to receive trusted advice. By focusing on connection and understanding, this campaign seeks to replace outdated advice with support that truly nurtures every child’s potential.
More info: www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/early-learningdevelopment
British Science Week – Change and Adapt
British Science Week is entering its third decade! Taking place on 7-16 March 2025, the theme to mark the start of this new era is ‘Change and adapt’.
This year’s theme seeks to highlight how changing and adapting plays a big part in science and affects all aspects of life. Cities, towns and other areas where people live change and adapt as the world’s population grows. Plants and animals change and adapt to their surroundings to survive. Technology has changed exponentially and adapted to our new, busier lives.
During British Science week, events and activities take place across the UK on a huge range of topics at a wide range of venues, including community groups, cultural centres and museums.
A FREE activity pack can be downloaded for fun activities at home.
To find a local event or download an activity pack, visit www.britishscienceweek.org
Join the Movement for Autism Acceptance This
April
April marks the inaugural World Autism Acceptance Month, beginning on World Autism Awareness Day on 2 April and continuing through 30 April. This initiative, led by the National Autistic Society, has a clear mission to promote greater understanding and acceptance of autism, celebrate neurodiversity, and encourage inclusivity worldwide.
Throughout the month, schools, workplaces, and supporters across the country will come together to raise awareness and funds. Activities include walking 5km your own way – whether at home, school, or while travelling – or attending one of the vibrant Spectrum Colour Walks hosted in London’s Battersea Park. For those aiming to get creative, there’s also the option to organise your own fundraising event.
All the money raised during World Autism Acceptance Month will go towards building a society that values and supports autistic individuals, fostering an inclusive environment for everyone. To find out how to get involved, visit www.autism.org.uk
DON’T FORGET
Mother’s Day Sunday 30 March
NHS Urges Families to Think Pharmacies First
Parents of young children are being encouraged by the NHS to take advantage of services offered by their local pharmacies when they require help with minor illnesses or ailments instead of their GP.
The NHS Pharmacy First campaign aims to increase public awareness of the breadth of support now offered by pharmacies on their doorstep.
The Pharmacy First service allows pharmacists to provide prescription medication for common conditions, including sinusitis (for those aged 12 and over), sore throat (for those aged 5 years and over), earache (for those aged between 1 and 17 years) and infected insect bite (for those aged 1 year and over) without the need for a GP appointment.
By expanding the services community pharmacies offer, the NHS is aiming to help free up GP appointments and give people more choice in how and where they access care.
More info:nhs.uk/thinkpharmacyfirst
IT’S TIME FOR RED NOSE DAY
Red Nose Day will take place on 21 March and this year, more than ever, it’s important to have fun and raise money to support people in need.
Red Nose Day is a campaign created by Comic Relief to help raise awareness of, and put an end to, child poverty. The campaign funds programmes, entertainment and raises money to keep children safe, healthy and educated.
Red Nose Day has raised more than £250 million to help end child poverty and has also positively impacted over 25 million children around the world.
So why not buy some red noses and help raise money to keep children safe, healthy and educated?
As well as making a donation, you can find tips on creating your own fundraiser or planning a school fundraising event at www.rednoseday.com and red noses can be found on Amazon.
The case for debating
As an English teacher, I am convinced that one of the most worthwhile educational activities that young people can experience is live debating. From primary to secondary, live debating provides a platform like no other where young people can build public speaking and critical thinking skills. And they always end up building their confidence and having fun whilst doing it!
Debating generally follows the same formula: there are two teams of around three people: affirmative and negative/proposition and opposition. Firstly of course, there must be a motion. Each side speaks for around three minutes, during which time the opposing team can offer ‘points of information,’ which can be questions or statements to which the speaker must respond.
The motion is a statement to which the teams agree or disagree. For example: ‘this house believes keeping pets is fair to animals.’ Choosing a motion can be tricky as care must be taken to select a motion which ensures both sides will have substantial opportunities to respond.
The beauty of debating is that it catapults children into worlds of knowledge they may otherwise not encounter. There are the ageold debates: is school uniform necessary, should zoos exist and even, if the children are an appropriate age, should we allow capital punishment? But debating also gives children the opportunity to research and understand current world affairs. I’ve seen children do wonders with motions which initially seemed a little dull, so topics that may not traditionally appeal to children can actually work well. It’s not only the motion that inspires the children, it’s also the energy of the teamwork and competition.
Cultivating an interest in debating for your child could also lead to curiosity about how debating is structured in Oxford Union debates, the Houses of Parliament and the United Nations. Debating is a fundamental part of our democracy in operation; whilst it can get fiery at times, it teaches children how to argue their points in a civilised and pragmatic manner.
Fostering general knowledge, research skills, teamwork and structuring arguments… I could write so much about the educational
By Erin Miller
and social benefits of debating. Perhaps most importantly, debating fosters the skill of evaluation, because to evaluate an idea is to look at it from all perspectives, which is essential to all critical thinking.
WHICH SKILLS DOES DEBATING SUPPORT?
‘Critical thinking’ is one of those somewhat nebulous phrases in children’s education: tricky to define but you know when you’ve seen it! Some of the best examples I have seen of students exercising on-the-spot critical thinking is during a debate. Debating facilitates and encourages students to think quickly and produce logical, rational arguments. These are higher order skills, ones which we greatly want to impart to young people.
Fundamental to critical thinking is the ability to identify multiple perspectives, which is at the very heart of debating. Children must fully consider both sides of an argument and this leads to a maturation in thinking and logical reasoning. A motion for a debate could be something like: ‘this house supports the use of homework’ and whether your child is debating for the affirmative or negative team, they will have to fully consider the opposing team’s arguments, so that they are prepared to refute them.
In addition, debating fosters social skills required for teamwork: negotiation, compromise, delegation and more.
Erin Miller is a teacher with a keen interest in how research can be used in the classroom to improve learning.
CULTIVATING THE SKILLS OF DEBATING
If your child’s school does not accommodate formal, structured debating within the curriculum or extra-curricular offering, you can still get your child debating in everyday situations. Use everyday scenarios to raise arguments for both sides of an issue. If your child wants you to buy them something, that can be turned into a motion about finances or even the ethics of online mass marketplaces.
Even motions which you may not feel will be of interest can capture children’s imaginations and they love to research the nitty gritty when they have a clear reason to do so. Debating provides that purpose because they must produce a speech and they have teammates relying on them to do so.
Modelling debating as a means of arriving at a solution can also be a way for children to learn about how disputes are settled. Taking an affirmative or negative side and arriving at a shared conclusion rather than a ‘winner’ or ‘loser’ result can help children to learn that debates are best settled through reason and evidence.
What’s On Things to do, places to go and fun to be had for kids of all ages in
Cambridgeshire
Hunt for nature’s treasures
WHEN: Mar-Apr
WHERE: Stow Hall Gardens
Pick up your free Discovery Sheet and get ready to explore. Find the huge swing in the ancient cedar trees, roll down grassy banks, run along twisting mown paths, spot bug hotels and climb as many trees as you can. Adults £8, children £2. Under 2s FREE. www.stowhallgardens.co.uk
Lambing Live
WHEN: Mar-Apr
WHERE: Church Farm Rare Breeds Centre
Join the fun at Church Farm and help bottle feed little lambs who can’t be fed by their mummies.
Lambs are born all the time during Spring: say hello to the newborns in the sheep maternity ward or Nursery. FREE with day tickets from £7.50 per child. www.churchfarmstowbardolph. co.uk
Indoor Play at the Treehouse
WHEN: Mar-Apr
WHERE: Church Farm Rare Breeds Centre
Babies can enjoy soft play, mats, mirrors and mobiles. Don’t miss the mini tower, slide, train set, giant Lego and imaginative play for under 5s. The over 5s area is full of rope walkways, climbing towers, and multiple slides. FREE with a day ticket from £7.50 per child. www. churchfarmstowbardolph.co.uk
Hidden surprises in the gardens
WHEN: Mar-Apr
WHERE: Stow Hall Gardens
Can you find all the surprises hidden in Stow Hall Gardens? From unusual plants and remnants of the old hall, there’s plenty to discover. How many plaques to much-loved dogs can you spot? Look out for an owl and griffin! Adults £8, children £2. Under 2s FREE.
www.stowhallgardens.co.uk
Aqua Splash
WHEN: Mar-Apr
WHERE: The Hive Leisure Centre
Dive in and experience the excitement of an exhilarating inflatable water obstacle course! Test your balance as you tackle drops, climbs and slides to complete the course. With floats, toys and plenty of pool space, it’s perfect for children 8+ and adults. Junior £4.50, adults £7. www.better.org.uk/leisurecentre/ely/the-hive
Family Fun at the Science Centre
WHEN: Mar-Apr
WHERE: Cambridge Science Centre
Unleash your creativity and work together to explore the wonders of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. With playful exhibits that invite curiosity, explosive science shows that captivate young imaginations, and interactive workshops that turn learning into an adventure. Weekends only. Annual membership from £7.50 for 2-4 year olds. www.cambridgesciencecentre. org
Marvellous Man Made Materials
WHEN: 1-16 Mar
WHERE: Cambridge Science Centre
Be prepared for inflating, burning, melting and more in this fun investigation of human ingenuity. Don’t forget to explore all the other hands-on, open-ended exhibits (including a huge wind tunnel and magnetic ball run) before or after the show. Ages 5-11. FREE to book with annual membership from £15 per child. www.cambridgesciencecentre. org
Cambridge Festival 2025
WHEN: 19 Mar-4 Apr
WHERE: Various locations
The festival promises to inspire curiosity, foster creativity, and ignite a passion for learning, with two action-packed weekends dedicated to families. Join hands-on activities, educational workshops, performances, and interactive events – almost all of which are free. www.festival.cam.ac.uk
Free Range Chemistry
WHEN: 22 March
11.00am & 4.00pm
WHERE: Cambridge Festival
Dr Peter Wothers, known for his engaging chemistry lectures, will perform explosive demonstrations using chemicals found in nature. Expect flashes, bangs, and plenty of excitement, making this event ideal for children aged 8+. FREE. www.festival.cam.ac.uk
Meet Michael Rosen
WHEN: 29 Mar 3.30pm-4.30pm
WHERE: Cambridge Festival
Michael Rosen, the author of classics including We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and The Sad Book, will take the stage to share poems, stories, and memories as a special treat for families with children of all ages. FREE. www.festival.cam.ac.uk
Family Day Sensational
WHEN: 29 Mar 10.00am – 4:30pm
WHERE: Museum of Zoology
Discover animal senses, feel textures handling real museum specimens, and uncover amazing stories of the evolution of animal colours. Joined by researchers working on the bright colours of passion vine butterflies, the changing populations of UK moths and more. www.museums.cam.ac.uk
Skylark Easter Funyard and Lamb Feeding
WHEN: 5th April - 21st April 2025
WHERE: Skylark Garden Centre, Wimblington
Have a whole day of family fun at Skylark's Easter Funyard with lamb feeding and much more! A whole range of attractions including Go-Karts, Bouncy Pillow and NEW for 2025, all aboard the Skylark Eggpress to the Wilderness Woods! Tickets starting at £14 pp online. Save an EXTRA £1, use code 'EASTERFAM' at checkout. www.skylark-events.co.uk
Easter Adventure Quest
WHEN: 5-27 Apr
10.00am-5.00pm
WHERE: Audley End House and Gardens
Join the adventure quest at Audley End this Easter holiday. Crack the clues hidden around the grounds and enjoy a delicious chocolate reward! Don’t forget to explore the playground, visit the horses, and see what’s on in the Victorian nursery. £2 with standard entry from £12.50 per child. www.english-heritage.org.uk
Hop into Easter at Worzals
WHEN: 5-22 Apr
WHERE: Worzals
Join Worzals for a brand new Easter event and brand new indoor play park. There will be an Easter egg hunt, hook a duck, the Easter bunny, face painting,street food and an electric tractor track. £2.95 Adult £10.95 per child. www.worzals.com
ROOM ON THE BROOM
WHEN: 6-8 Apr
WHERE: Kings Lynn Corn Exchange
Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories’ fun-filled adaptation of Room on the Broom, the bestsessing picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Will there be room on the broom for everyone? Ages 3 and up. Tickets £16 www.kingslynncornexchange. co.uk
THE WIZARD OF OZ EASTER PANTO
WHEN: 9 Apr
WHERE: Kings Lynn Corn Exchange Come and join the fun over the rainbow as Enchanted Entertainment presents a wonderful pantomime version of this much-loved fairytale. Packed with brilliant dance routines, pop songs, audience participation, and lots of laughter for the whole family. Tickets from £24. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
Dinosaur Adventure Live
WHEN: 12 Apr 2.00pm
WHERE: Kings Lynn Corn Exchange
The adventure of a lifetime awaits…bring the family on a T-rex-iffic journey with brand new dinosaurs, meet their roar-some babies and help the rangers save the island. Are you brave enough to face the Jurassic Storm? Tickets from £17. www.kingslynncornexchange. co.uk
Woodland Crafts
WHEN: 12-13 Apr 10.30am-4.00pm WHERE: Wandlebury Country Park
Have-a-go activities for adults and children! Cambridge Bodgers will be working in the woods building a traditional work shelter and making items out of the wood from the Woodland Restoration Project. FREE. www.cambridgeppf.org
Peckover Easter Trail
WHEN: 18-21 Apr
10.30am-4.00pm
WHERE: Peckover House and Garden
Make your way along the trail and find activities for the whole family. Includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and dairy or vegan and free from chocolate egg. £3 with admission from £5 for children 5. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Egg Hunt and Windmill Tour
WHEN: 20 Apr 10.00am-4.00pm
WHERE: Burwell Museum and Windmill
Enjoy an Easter egg hunt, windmill tours and refreshments for the whole family at the museum’s first open day of the year. Chocolate prizes, hot cross buns and more! Hunt and tour £2 each with admission from £3 for children. www.burwellmuseum. org.uk
The Perse School, Cambridge
The Perse School Cambridge is a coeducational day school for children aged 3-18, who attend our Pelican, Prep, Upper or Sixth Form. We want every pupil to share a love of learning while developing a character of kindness and understanding towards one another. We value endeavour, intellectual curiosity and scholarship, breadth and balance and one another and the environment. We are a visionary school, always looking forward as we shape the exceptional education our pupils receive, knowing that the future belongs to them. We promote academic excellence through a challenging curriculum, outstanding
St Mary’s School
St Mary’s School is the leading independent day and boarding school for girls aged 3 to 18, located within the heart of Cambridge.
A St Mary’s education is about discovering and pursuing individual talents with confidence and drive, inspiring girls to become great women – creative, agile, resilient learners, ready to make their mark in the world. The School’s all-girls offer is unique – providing a space where gender stereotypes cannot thrive and all subjects are ‘for girls’.
Wisbech Grammar School
At Wisbech Grammar School, we are committed to helping every pupil thrive academically and personally. Our approach nurtures each child’s strengths while providing the support needed to succeed in all areas of life.
With a strong emphasis on academic and pastoral care, we ensure that every pupil receives the attention and guidance they need. Our outstanding results reflect this dedication, with a curriculum designed to inspire curiosity and challenge pupils beyond the classroom.
Our extensive enrichment programme allows pupils to explore their interests, from
Kimbolton School, Cambridge
Kimbolton School, Cambridgeshire is a leading independent co-educational day and boarding school, offering a seamless journey from Prep through to Sixth Form. Nestled in stunning historic surroundings – the grounds of Kimbolton Castle, we provide a dynamic and nurturing environment where academic excellence, character development, and opportunity go hand in hand.
Our small class sizes ensure personalised learning, while an extensive co-curricular programme fosters creativity, leadership, and resilience. From state-of-the-art science labs to exceptional arts and sports facilities, we inspire students to explore their passions
teaching, intellectual curiosity and scholarship as well as high quality pastoral care to meet individual needs, and support the development of happy, balanced and considerate pupils.
We offer several bursaries for new pupils applying for entry into Year 7 and above with awards ranging from 5-100% of annual fees. Currently, we are providing more than £1million of bursary support to pupils.
Open Dates: Prep - 9 May, 9.15am-12noon Prep - 4 October 9am- 12noon Pelican - 4 October 9am – 12noon
The School’s first-class education status is reinforced with the highest grade of ‘excellent’ in both aspects of the Education Quality Inspection. Students are taught to understand how they learn, as well as what they learn. The result? Excellent academic outcomes and young adults who are curious, courageous, resilient, and ready to make a positive contribution to society.
Taster Morning: 7th June
Contact: Charlotte Duhaney, Head of Marketing and Communications
Telephone: 01223 311666
Website: stmaryscambridge.co.uk/visit
the arts to sport and beyond. Small class sizes mean our passionate teachers can focus on each pupil’s personal growth, helping them become well-rounded individuals.
Wisbech Grammar School’s success is built on collaboration. Our dedicated staff play an active role in academic, pastoral, and cocurricular activities, creating an environment where pupils take responsibility for their own learning and fulfil their potential.
Open Day: 17th May 9.00am - 1.00pm, 27th September 9.00am - 1.00pm
Contact: admissions@wisbechgrammar.com
Telephone: 01945 586750
Website: www.wisbechgrammar.com
and reach their full potential.
With a strong pastoral care system and a thriving boarding community, Kimbolton offers a supportive, family-like atmosphere. Our commitment to developing wellrounded, confident individuals ensures that students leave with the skills, values, and ambition to succeed in an ever-changing world.
Open Days
Open Day: Kimbolton Castle Open Day2 March. Senior School small group tour20 March. Prep School open morning - 9 May.
MEET THE HEAD: Mr Barney Rimmer, Wisbech Grammar School
What or who inspired you to become a teacher and later a Headteacher?
My godfather was a teacher for over 30 years, serving as Head of Geography and leading rowing. He loved his career and remained involved with the school even after retiring. Many of my own teachers also inspired me–whether by encouraging me to study Biological Science at university or to become a teacher. I recall visiting KES, where I studied my A-levels, and speaking with my old Head of Sixth Form, Mr Steer. He was incredibly positive about my decision to go into teaching, and our conversation, which happened just a week before I started my PGCE, reassured me that I had made the right choice.
Becoming a Headteacher wasn’t something I initially planned. As I progressed in my career, others recognised my contributions and encouraged me to take on more senior roles. Many colleagues have supported and advocated for me, and I am incredibly grateful for that.
What does being a Headteacher of a school mean to you?
As an Old Grammarian, it is a real honour–and still slightly surreal–to be Head of WGS. I feel a deep responsibility to ensure that our pupils receive the best education and experiences. My guiding principle has always been: ‘It is all about the children,’ regardless of a staff member’s role within our community. How do you think a Headteacher can make a real difference to an individual student? Making a difference is a collective effort, with all staff working together to support pupils. The culture and environment I foster at WGS play a crucial role in this. By modelling high expectations and shared values, I help ensure that every student can thrive.
When I was interviewed by pupils during the Headteacher recruitment process, I asked them what they wanted from me. Their response was simple: “Be seen around school.” I take this to heart every day–engaging with pupils, taking an interest in their activities, and listening to their ideas. I hope this visibility is something they will remember about my time as Head.
Having worked in the state sector for 22 years before becoming the Headteacher at WGS, what do you see as the key differences between the state and independent sectors, and what advice would you give to parents considering private education for the first time?
There are many similarities, particularly in working with excellent staff to provide the best opportunities for pupils. However, one key difference at WGS is class size. Smaller classes allow us to personalise learning pathways–whether that means preparing for top grades and Oxbridge, supporting
literacy, enhancing emotional well-being, or developing soft skills. In an ideal world, no class would exceed 30 pupils.
Academic achievement is essential, but these additional skills are just as crucial for future success.
Another major advantage is the breadth of co-curricular activities. We dedicate time for pupils to explore new skills and interests as part of their school day. This also allows us to focus on the ‘soft’ skills that employers value, such as teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Academic achievement is essential, but these additional skills are just as crucial for future success.
You are an Old Grammarian, having been a pupil at WGS from 1988 to 1993. What changes have you seen at the school over the last 30 years, and what remains the same?
The school has retained its core traditions–church services, Speech Day, the school tie, prefect ties, and colours. These customs are important in honouring our history and values. However, support for students and the diversity of learning pathways have evolved significantly. Today, we offer a broader curriculum with multiple routes to success, ensuring every pupil is well prepared for their future. Our key message is: ‘Respect the past, nurture the present, inspire the future.’ Preserving traditions while adapting to modern educational needs is essential for our pupils' long-term success.
In 2019, WGS opened its first-ever boarding house for international pupils, with plans to expand this over the coming years. How do you feel this has enriched the overall school experience for day pupils?
During my visits to China, I have emphasised that boarding at WGS is a two-way experience. Our boarders come to study,
improve their English, and experience UK school life. At the same time, our day pupils gain exposure to different cultures and traditions. Our boarders share their festivals, such as the Moon Festival and Chinese New Year, lead assemblies, and introduce their peers to elements of their history, stories, and music.
Each year, we host an international-themed evening celebrating the diverse cultures at WGS. This cultural exchange enriches our school community and enhances our students’ global awareness.
WGS has incorporated a timetabled ‘CoCurricular’ option during Period 7, 3 days a week, where pupils are encouraged to take part in a wide range of sports and clubs. How important do you think these opportunities are for pupils throughout their time at WGS?
Co-curricular activities are a vital part of our school experience. They allow pupils to pursue new interests or develop existing skills. We offer an extensive range of activities, including the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Taskmaster, Warhammer, chess, international film, societal matters, and Biology Society, to name just a few! Over the year, there are up to 50 different clubs, many led by staff outside their subject areas, allowing pupils to see their teachers’ passions beyond the classroom. Additionally, Sixth Form students run clubs, creating leadership opportunities.
Our co-curricular programme is a great example of how we enrich pupils’ education beyond academics.
What is your real-life superpower?
The ability to remain calm under pressure–I often use the swan analogy: calm on the surface but paddling fast underneath! I also value the ability to listen and give people time, whether they are pupils, staff, or parents. Taking time to listen is incredibly important.
Relaxing holiday or active holiday?
A mix! It is important to take time to relax on A mix! It’s important to take time to relax–to have that by-the-pool moment. However, I never sit still for long! I soon get restless and go trekking or swimming. A balance is definitely needed.
Mr Barney Rimmer Wisbech Grammar School
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Please get in touch if you have a few spare hours every week and experience in writing / editing / proof reading. Call Lisa on 07887 521978 or email editor@familiesox.co.uk to find out more.
What’s On
Things to do this new year - drama, music & sport something for everyone in
Cambridgeshire
Better Swim School
WHEN: Weekdays
WHERE: The Hive
Swim lessons at The Hive are specially tailored to your child’s age and where they are on their journey, whether they’re learning how to swim or simply building confidence in the pool. Flexible, affordable, and accessible for everyone!
www.better.org.uk/leisurecentre/ely/the-hive
Toddler World
WHEN: Mondays and Fridays
WHERE: The Hive
Treat kids to a play adventure, whatever the weather at The Hive’s indoor Toddler World sessions. Kids will love the freedom to explore different play areas, including soft play, bouncy castle and inflatable obstacle course. £2.60 for under 3s, £4.20 for over 3s.
www.better.org.uk/leisurecentre/ely/the-hive
Razzamataz
WHEN: Saturdays
WHERE: Impington Village College
Join the Razzamataz family to experience a range of styles from classic West End musical theatre to street dance and pop singing. There are always lots of opportunities to perform, from local theatres and festivals to London’s West End stage. Book a FREE taster! www.cambridge.razzamataz. co.uk
Paxton Lakes Sailing Club
A sailing club for everyone – from RYA recognised Sailing School for those who have never been in a boat before to racing for more experienced sailors! Join the Youth Sailing Scheme to go from boat beginner to young sailor in four fun stages. www.paxtonlakes.org.uk
Please mention Families Cambridgeshire Magazine when replying to events
Early Years Studio
WHEN: Selected Fridays
WHERE: Kettle’s Yard
Stagecoach Performing Arts
WHERE & WHEN: Chesterton Community College: Wednesdays Coleridge Campus: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Cambourne Village College: Wednesdays and Saturdays. St Mary’s Catholic Primary School: Saturdays. Ditton Lodge Primary School: Fridays. Godmanchester Community Primary School: Thursdays and Saturdays
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 a two-week trial. www.stagecoach.co.uk
Holiday Bushcraft
WHEN: 7-17 Apr 8.30am-4.00pm
WHERE: Wandlebury Country Park
Take your 5-12 year old to Wandlebury for an action-packed holiday club that will teach them how to survive in the wild. Experienced instructors will teach them basic bushcraft from shelter building and rope work to orienteering, tracking, and more. £48 per day. www.wildthymeandembers. co.uk
Studio Sunday
WHEN: Selected Sundays WHERE: Kettle’s Yard
Unlock your creativity at these free, artist-led workshops for families in the Clore Learning Studio. Relaxed sessions available for children and families with additional sensory needs www.kettlesyard.cam.ac.uk
A fun, creative, immersive experience for little ones up to age 4. Sessions are led by artist Ian Brownlie, who guides children and their carers through sensory and creative activities. £6 per child and accompanying adult. Sibling tickets £3. www.kettlesyard.cam.ac.uk
Easter Athletics Camp
WHEN: 7-8 Apr 10.00am-3.30pm
WHERE: The University Athletics Track
South Cambridgeshire District Council’s Athletics camp covers everything from long jump and howlers to distance running and sprints. Receive coaching in each event and earn a certificate showing your personal best. 3-9 year olds. From £23 per day. www.scambs.gov.uk
Easter Netball Camp
WHEN: 9-10 Apr 10.00am-3.30pm
WHERE: Impington Sports Centre
Coaching for all abilities from those trying netball for the first time to those who already play. The days will have fun games around attacking and defending, along with shooting, footwork, passing and catching. 3-9 year olds. From £23 per day. www.scambs.gov.uk
