Families Hampshire North March April 2015 issue 7 by Families Magazine

ISSUE 7 MARCH/APRIL 2015

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Spring is in the air!

- Mothering Sunday ideas - Childcare feature - Easter activities

Confidence Building Fun

Call 0845 400 1319 or visit perform.org.uk to find your nearest venue.

Try a Free Drama Class The essential magazine for families with young children in Andover, Basingstoke, Hook, Fleet, Alton, Bordon & surrounding areas

Yateley Manor School stops over Easter, learning doesn’t have to

A local Co-Educational Prep School for ages 3 - 13

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work throughout the year to ensure your child is constantly learning and developing their ability. To unlock your child’s potential, contact your local Instructor for a free assessment. Basingstoke North Basingstoke South

01256 636233 01256 533234 kumon.co.uk

Your Child • Their Journey • Our Focus

Open Mornings Saturday 14th March Friday 24th April

10.00am - 12.00 noon 9.45am - 11.30am

www.yateleymanor.com

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

01252 405500

St Nicholas’ School FLEET•HAMPSHIRE

CONFIDENT LEARNING OPEN EVENING

Thursday 14th May 6pm - 8pm

01252 850121 st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk For more information please contact the Registrar: registrar@st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk St Nicholas’ School, Redfields House, Redfields Lane, Church Crookham, Fleet, Hampshire GU52 ORF Registered in England Reg. No. 872200 Reg. Charity No. 307341

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Editor’s welcome

This issue also marks our first anniversary and I’m very pleased the magazine has been received so well by so many of you. Thank you for your support the last 12 months, and of course to our many advertisers without whom this magazine would not be published.

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So that’s the first two months of the year gone already and I’m sure we’re all now looking forward to the first signs of Spring and the Easter Holidays! We have some great ideas of things to do during the holidays this issue, as well as a focus on childcare and nurseries.

28 March - 19 April 2015 OPEN DAILY 10AM - 4PM

Sara

Contents 4 – 5 News 6 Babies & Toddlers 7 – 10 Childcare & Education 11 – 12 Easter Holidays 13 – 16 What’s On Cover by:

y out

A great family da

le fun

Inflatab

unnies

Newborn

Lambs

Yasmin Anne www.yasminanne.co.uk

Creative thinking designflavour.com

Printed by:

PRINTED BY WARNERS 01778 395111

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Contact details:

Editor: Sara Dawson Email: editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Tel: 01256 330147 N is ex su t e

Easter B

May/June – Birthday Party Special! Booking & copy deadline is 31st March

Newborn lambs bottle-feeding demonstrations Crazy Golf Sheep Grand National Chicks & Bunnies - animal handling Tractor and Trailer Ride Adventure Play Under 3's Play Area Inflatable Fun On-site Cafe Free Car Parking Season tickets for ALL 2015 events available NOW from our website

www.manydownfamilyfun.co.uk Become our friend on Facebook for the best offers through the season! Find us:on the B3400, Scrapps Hill Farm, 550 Worting Road, Basingstoke RG23 8PU. Tel: 01256 220398 Activities and events are subject to change without notice.

familieshampshirenorth

@FamiliesHantsN

Families Hampshire North is part of a group established in 1990 headed by Families South West London. All magazines are independently owned and operated under licence. © All content copyright Families Hampshire North. Disclaimer: We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers 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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*Save £1.25 off a child or adult day ticket, for up to 4 admissions with this voucher. Terms & Conditions: 1. This voucher entitles the holder to £1.25 off a child or adult admission price, for up to 4 admissions per voucher. 2. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 3. This voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other special offer, online tickets, vouchers or promotions. 4. A maximum of four adult or child admissions per voucher in one transaction. 5. This voucher must be given up at the time of use. 6. There is no alternative offer or cash alternative. 7. Photocopies, downloads from electronic versions of publications, forged or defaced vouchers are not accepted. 8. This voucher is only valid 28th March – 19th April 2015.

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News

FitMama

- PREGNANCY & BIRTH:

Get reading This Spring, delve deep into your bookshelf and read something you’ve never read before, in honour of World Book Day. Throughout March and April schools, libraries and bookshops across the country are holding exciting events and workshops for young readers, plus you can register online for your free book token and choose from titles including Michael Morpurgo’s Best Mates and A Pirate’s Guide to Landlubbing by Jonny Duddle. Don’t miss The Biggest Book Show on Earth at www.worldbookday. com, a series of short videos starring this year’s World Book Day authors, where you can hear them talking about their work. You can also design your very own National Book Token and have your design distributed to bookshops nationwide in time for Christmas. Competition closes 17 April. It’s the biggest celebration of books across the world! It’s also International Children’s Book Day on 2 April, the birthday of Hans Christian Andersen himself. International Children’s Book Day aims to inspire a love of reading from an early age, so check out the website to find out more about all of the events across the country (and the world!), including writing competitions and talks from famous authors and illustrators. You can also find out about a whole host of fabulous children’s books you may never have heard of at www.ibby.org/index. php?id=269.

THE FITMAMA METHOD - POSTNATAL REPAIR: THE HYPOPRESSIVE METHOD Tel: 01256 369 291 www.fitmamastudio.com

Canine Partners captivate Brookham School Every year the children of Brookham School in Liphook select a charity to support and this year Canine Partners has been chosen. Alison Bailey visited Brookham recently with Canine Partner Yarna, to talk to the children about how vital the dogs are in helping disabled people at home. The children were mesmerised as Yarna gave demonstrations of how a Canine Partner can help with every day activities such as taking off a coat, picking up keys or a remote control, and helping to do the laundry. It was such an inspirational talk the children are now excited to try and improve on the £43,710 they raised for the Nyumbani Village project last year, and one boy was so moved that he has already donated £8.91 of his own pocket money!

Congratulations to these lucky competition winners… ...Dawn Walsh, Nicole Houlihan and Della Abraham all won prizes in the Christmas competitions in our November/ December issue!

Real Nappy Week 2015 Young Writers Award Announcing the 5th year of the prestigious Wicked Young Writers’ Award! Get scribbling now for your chance to enter this competition, championed by Patron Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall and judged by a panel including Cressida Cowell, the hugely popular author of the How to Train Your Dragon series. The competition recognises excellence in writing, while encouraging creativity and developing writing talent in young people aged between 5-25. ‘I am delighted to be asked to be a judge on the Wicked Young Writers’ Award,’ said Cressida Cowell. ‘As an ambassador for the National Literacy Trust it is wonderful to be involved in an award which celebrates young people’s writing and creativity.’ Deadline is 18 April. Find out more at www.WickedYoungWriters.com

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Real Nappy Week takes place 20-26 April this year - the real nappy community’s opportunity to celebrate everything fabulous about using cloth nappies. Up and down the country retailers, manufacturers, cloth nappy libraries, local councils (and of course real nappy fans) will hold giveaways and events aiming to spread the word about why they love real nappies. They are a great way to save money, avoid waste to landfill and reduce your impact on global warming, plus you can save upwards of £500 by using real nappies on one baby, and even more when siblings come along. They come in a wide choice of fabrics, styles and colours, or you can even buy bespoke and personalise them! Make sure you discover the exciting things the real nappy community have planned, from nationwide events to local competitions, opportunities to meet people and get advice and a whole lot more at www.goreal.org.uk/real-nappy-week.

News Easter Recipe Who can resist a cute Easter Chick? These tropical lime and coconut-covered biscuits look gorgeous and make a welcome break from all the chocolate eggs. Why not spend a rainy afternoon cooking up a storm with your little ones?

Little Chick Cookies Ingredients • 65g Softened Butter • 30g Caster Sugar • 90g Plain Flour • 20g Dessicated Coconut • Yellow Food Colouring • Zest and juice of ½ Lime • 50g Icing Sugar

15 minutes until golden around the edges 6. Meanwhile, mix together the icing sugar and lime juice in a bowl 7. In a separate bowl mix the coconut with a little yellow food colouring until you reach the desired colour 8. Once the biscuits are cooled, spread them with a layer of icing and stick the yellow coconut on top to give the effect of ‘fluffy’ feathers!

How do I make that? 1. Pre-heat the oven to 190oC 2. Mix the butter and sugar together until smooth 3. Fold in the flour and lime zest 4. Roll out the mix and cut into ‘chick’ shapes using a cookie cutter (alternatively, you could use a medium round cutter for the body and a small round cutter for the head. Cut small triangles for the beak and tail, and you have a chick!) 5. Place on a greased baking sheet and bake for approximately

At Cookery Doodle Doo we use fantastic quality ingredients to cook fun, tasty recipes with your kids in a relaxed and friendly setting. We run weekly term-time pre-schooler sessions in North Hampshire (serving the Basingstoke, Winchester and Andover areas). We also hold our popular Sunday Morning Pudding Club for primary school children once a month, run delightfully creative Cookie Art parties, and take ‘no-cook’ cookery sessions into schools, nurseries etc. Find out more and book online at www.cookerydoodledoo.com/northhants or see www.facebook.com/cookerydoodledoonorthants for lots of pictures and more information.

Mothering Sunday It’s Mothering Sunday this March 15th, so why not put your thinking cap on early and come up with something special for your mum? Or you could start dropping hints for your partner and children to treat you. A day out with the people dearest to you can hit the spot perfectly, so why not check out the many museums, stately homes, farm parks, theme parks and National Trust properties across the country that are running special Mother’s Day events. At many of them Mums go free, so it’s worth doing your research. Top that off with a lie-in and breakfast in bed, and you’ll have the perfect day!

Childcare experience Spare room Commitment

Here are some of the things you could be doing to celebrate Mothering Sunday on 15th March: Marvellous Mother’s Day The Vyne, Basingstoke Browse gift stalls and take something special home for mum. Once you’re finished enjoy a piece of cake and a cup of tea in the Brewhouse Tea Rooms. 11am to 4pm. Normal admission charges apply.

Mother’s Day: Buttons & Beads Workshop Basing House, Old Basing Family workshop to make your own jewellery, key rings or scarf toggles from recycled buttons & beads. 11am. £5. www3.hants.gov.uk/basinghouse

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/vyne OAE Tots - at The Forge Mothering Sunday - Special Afternoon Tea West Green House, Hartley Wintney A visit to the gardens will make Mothering Sunday a very special day. Indulge in the fine tradition of afternoon tea complete with a glass of bubbles. Prices include glass of bubbles and a small gift for mother. Advanced booking essential. 2pm to 4pm. Adults £30, children under 16 £15.

The Anvil, Basingstoke These lively and fun concerts for the very youngest of music lovers come to The Anvil for the first time, as part of the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment’s national tour. Recommended for those aged 2 to 5 yrs. 11am and 1.30pm. £10, under 16s £3.

Drop in to find out more about adoption and fostering Merchistoun Hall | Murray Road | Horndean PO8 9LJ Saturday 31 January, 10am – 2pm

www.anvil.org.uk

www.westgreenhouse.co.uk

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Babies & Toddlers Baby Play is not just for fun! By Lynne Murray Whilst playing with your baby can be fun, it is not at all trivial. It is one of the main ways in which babies engage with other people, and a fundamental means of developing their social understanding. How babies play, and the way in which parents can support their play, changes dramatically during their first two years of life. Babies generally become playful from around six weeks, when they start to smile, vocalise and show deliberate facial movements and expressions. Parents typically find themselves imitating these baby signals, or reacting to them with stereotyped, exaggerated expressions called ‘marking’. These responses are largely automatic, and they help the baby maintain his positive mood and stay engaged. These early exchanges are like ‘conversations,’ and they are a very basic way for babies to sense the connection between their experience and that of someone else - one of the basic building blocks of social understanding. By around four or five months, a baby’s vision has improved and he or she can focus on things at a distance, and also start to reach out and grab things. These developments mean that a baby’s interests expand, and the previous, purely social, face-to-face play loses its attraction. This can be disconcerting for parents, as they search for new strategies with which to engage their baby. This is a stage when body games, like ‘pat-a-cake,’ or ‘round and round the garden’ come into their own. Babies quickly become familiar with the different steps of such games, and most of their pleasure comes from the sense of anticipation and climax. These games, and supporting babies play with toys, represent a new form of social relating for the baby - one where play is about a ‘topic’ that baby and parent share together. Although babies and parents enjoy these body games and toy play, they can also feel something of a ‘one-way-street’ for parents, since the baby typically doesn’t show great interest in the parent

Yasmin Anne Newborn Photography By Yasmin Mason Capturing the moments at the start of a new life, not just for the baby but for the parents too, is such a wonderful gift to give. The emotion that this tiny person can induce is such a powerful, special occurrence, and that’s what I aim to capture and preserve in my images. My name is Yasmin Mason, and I am a fine art newborn photographer. I love to capture babies when they are fresh and new to the world, usually under 10 days old. My unique take on photography means that every image I produce is made to be a piece of artwork. My images are not simply just to capture the moment, but they are designed to be an heirloom, passed down from generation to generation. A piece of fine art, for your own family.

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

themselves. This situation changes from around nine months, as relationships shift from being ‘topic-based’ to being more genuinely two-way and connected. Now, babies notice more of what their parents are doing, and will typically want to join in and even, in their own way, ‘help.’ They start to follow simple suggestions, and swap roles with their parent in games like ‘peek-a-boo.’ With this change, parents sometimes feel as if their baby has now become a ‘real’ person, and play can become easier and more satisfying. This more connected phase culminates in the development of genuinely co-operative behaviour and more mature social understanding from around eighteen months, when babies can appreciate that other people have different experiences from their own, as well as different likes and dislikes. These developments are assisted when parents engage in pretend play, which can support the baby in thinking about the experience of, say, doll characters. Talking about people’s experiences and their feelings, and the reasons for them, either during play or during activities such as sharing picture books, are also important ways for parents to support the growing social understanding of their baby. So don’t feel that when you are playing with your baby that you are somehow wasting time. You are teaching your baby to become a sociable being! Lynne Murray is Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Reading, and author of The 07845 701896 Psychology of Babies: info@yasminanne.co.uk How Relationships Newborn and family fine art photography Support Development Photo sessions are available for newborn, family, from Birth to Two cake smash, maternity, couples and weddings. (Constable & Robinson From your home or if prefered I can offer 2014), in which more newborn studio information on play, as photography, in my home in Farnborough well as other aspects of Hampshire. babies’ development, is www.yasminanne.co.uk provided.

If you would love to invest in fine art newborn photography, I am running a special offer until the end of April. Book a newborn shoot with me, and receive £200 off a maternity shoot OR a complementary mini album. Please quote the name of the magazine before booking to receive this offer. For any further information or to book a session please contact me on info@yasminanne.co.uk or 07845701896. www.yasminannenewbornphotography.co.uk

Childcare & Education Childcare quiz: what’s best for me? By Joanna Moorhead There are a whole host of factors to take into account in working out what childcare is going to be best for you and your child or children. Joanna Moorhead guides you through the questions you need to ask yourself - and offers a key to what kind of care your answers might point towards.

7. Do you have a long commute?

1. How many children do you have?

A live-in nanny needs a place to sleep; though if you don’t have the space, you can still consider sharing a nanny who lives in the other family’s home.

Different forms of childcare suit different sizes of family, primarily for cost reasons. For example, even though some nurseries offer reductions for a second child your bill for two children is still going to be a lot more than it will be for one, whereas with a nanny the cost is the same whether it’s one child or three, because you pay for the nanny’s time. SCORE 1 per child; plus 1 if there’s a high chance you’ll be pregnant again in the next 18 months 2. What ages are your children? The younger your youngest child is, the more individually-tailored care you’re likely to need. SCORE 3 if your youngest is under a year, 2 if he/she is under two years, and 1 if he/she is three-plus 3. Do you live in a rural or an urban area? The more populous your area, the more childcare options there will be available, in terms of more nurseries, and a higher number of childminders. If you live somewhere really remote, hiring a nanny might be the only option. SCORE 3 for a rural area, 2 if you live in the suburbs, 1 if you’re an urbanite 4. Are you a single parent? If so you’re likely to have less back-up, but also a lower disposable income. SCORE 2 if yes 5. How much disposable income do you have? The money you spend on childcare is less about what you’ve got left over and more about investing in your career for the future. But you still need to have some spare income to pay for it. SCORE 3 if you have what you’d consider a high disposable income; 2 if medium; and 1 if low 6. Is your work predictable? Knowing you’re going to start and finish work at the same time each day makes nursery a much more realistic option than if you’re likely to be called in to your workplace at the drop of a hat, or in the middle of the night, or if you might end up staying until the early hours with little or no warning. SCORE 1 for yes, 3 for no

You need to add travel time to your working hours, and if you’re commuting a long distance a nursery or a childminder might be trickier. SCORE 3 for yes 8. Do you have a spare bedroom?

SCORE 3 for yes 9. Does your child have an allergy or health issue of any kind? A health issue could make a nanny the best bet, because her care can be concentrated on your child and all activities/meals/ outings can be planned with your child at the centre. SCORE 3 for yes 10. Are you a ‘laissez faire’ or a ‘controlling’ parent? If you’re the kind of parent who’s going to be happy to leave your childcarer to make decisions on your behalf through the day, you’re probably going to be happier with a childminder or nursery setting than if you want to be able to lay down exactly what you want to happen while you’re at work. SCORE 1 for laissez faire, 3 for controlling

SCORES Up to 10: Could a nursery be the right choice for you? Look round some of the nurseries in your area and see what your instinctive feel about them is. Nurseries provide more structured care that can suit many families, though it’s harder for them to cater for parents who work very long or unpredictable hours. 10-20: Are you the perfect fit for a childminder? For families who like the idea of childcare in a different setting from home, with other children but with some flexibility on timings, this can be a perfect option - and childminders tend to be lower-cost than nurseries or nannies. 20-30: If you have the space and the income, hiring a nanny means you can provide care that’s tailored precisely to your child or children. Plus if your family is still expanding, a nanny can be a cost-saver in the long term. We hope you enjoyed this quiz, it is just to make you think of your options in a different way and it may not provide the correct answer for you!

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Childcare & Education Our featured Childcare and Nursery providers in Hampshire North. See www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk for a more extensive directory. First Steps Montessori Nursery Hawkley

Cornerstone Nurseries

Quality, Flexible, Affordable childcare. A small group of family owned settings based in Basingstoke, Hampshire • OFSTED rated as GOOD. • Large gardens and free flow play areas • Separate baby units • All food freshly prepared on site in our 4-5 star rated kitchens • Special diets catered for Please visit our website for more information or call 01256 818118 to book an appointment to view our fantastic facilities. www.cornerstone-nurseries. co.uk

First Steps Montessori Nursery @ Liss

A well established nursery operating in a truly magnificent rural location at Hawkley Village Hall near Liss. Offering a blend of Montessori and traditional activities with the emphasis on ensuring each child develops at his or her own pace in a caring secure environment. Contact jane.m.fisher@ btinternet.com or 01730 827722 www.firststepshawkley.co.uk

Open term time 9am – 1pm daily & 9am – 3pm Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Rated ‘Outstanding’ by OFSTED

Every Thursday 10am – 12pm is open to visitors, come along and see what we do…

Jubilee Day Nursery

Set in rural Berkshire, providing a wonderful environment where children can explore, develop & learn. Contact info@jubileedaynursery. co.uk or 0118 9701 600 www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk

A well established nursery operating in a truly magnificent rural location at Hawkley Village Hall. For further information please Telephone Jane Fisher on 01730 859214 Mobile 07775517185 @the nursery 01730827722 Email jane.m.fisher@btinternet.com www.firststepshawkley.co.uk

Little Crickets Nursery School

Trusted by parents across North Hampshire to look after the care & development of their 2 to 5 year old children. Set in a rural yet convenient location between Basingstoke & Alton. Contact info@littlecricketsherriard. co.uk or 01256 384114 www.littlecricketsherriard.co.uk

Welcoming our Woodpeckers to Jubilee Day Nursery

Little Me Day Nurseries

A family owned company, priding themselves on offering caring and nurturing environments for little ones. Contact info@littlemedaynurseries. co.uk or 01256 242735 www.littlemedaynurseries.co.uk

We have greeted the New Year in with the opening of Woodpeckers, our new baby/toddler area. This exciting new play space has been specifically designed for our oldest babies. Woodpeckers gives them space to explore and to discover, in a safe and secure environment. With our experienced professional caring team close at hand to encourage and support their individual, play learning and developmental needs. In addition, Woodpeckers have their own outdoor play area, which is easily accessible, along with their much loved trips to our woods and farm. The children also enjoy a variety of activities, including toddler sensory, helping them gain skills in rhythm and beat. Other exciting plans at Jubilee Day Nursery and Jubilee Gems for 2015 include the opening of our Summer School for all pre-school children. Booking forms and information will be available after May half term.

At Jubilee Gems

Greatham Village Nursery School

The Greatham Village Nursery School has a warm and welcoming environment in which children are encouraged to participate in a wide variety of play and educational activities through our indoors and outdoors curriculum. Our aim and motto is ‘Where fun is learning’. Contact enquiry@ greathamvillagenursery.co.uk or 01420 538893 www.greathamvillagenursery. co.uk

The Children’s House

Steventon and Overton Children’s Houses are accredited Montessori nursery schools for children aged between two and a half and six years. Contact mariannepreece@thechildrens-house.co.uk or 07917 110168 www.the-childrens-house.co.uk

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Our term-time nursery for 2 year olds to school age children continues to grow and develop. With lots of new and exciting activities planned, including more adventures exploring the local environment in our Jubilee minibus. As the weather continues to improve and spring arrives we will be spending more time creating new and exciting areas within our outdoor play spaces. We are all looking forward to the spring and the arrival of lambs, chicks and ducklings. If you would like your child to be part of the Jubilee experience or would like to become part of our growing team then please contact us today. Call Lesley on 01189 701 600 Email info@jubileedaynursery.co.uk or visit our website www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk

Call Sian on 01189 834 018 Email info@jubileegems.co.uk or visit our website www.jubileegems.co.uk

Yateley Manor Nursery At Yateley Manor we know that you want the best possible start for your child, so the innovative and nurturing atmosphere in our Nursery provides a secure, gentle introduction to school life. Children quickly settle into this homely environment and soon realise that learning is fun.

Childcare & Education Local Independent School Open Days Alton Convent Prep School, Anstey Lane, Alton Tel. 01420 82070 www.altonconvent.org.uk Open morning: 20th March 9.30am to 12pm

The focus is on active, play-based learning and children keenly engage in creative play, singing songs, role-play and story time. The Nursery is situated in an attractive, purpose-built secure building with bright, well-equipped rooms and a large and imaginatively designed outside play area. With the support of inspirational staff, children develop a love of school, become sociable and confident, and eager for their next adventure in Reception. Nursery children have access to all Yateley Manor’s fantastic facilities including the new Woodland Learning Area and the fully equipped gymnasium. Our studio is ideal for little ones to make music and dance, while our heated indoor swimming pool is used by specialist swimming instructors to perfect those frogs’ legs. The Nursery is open 49 weeks a year. Morning, afternoon or all day sessions, with extended care, are available to suit family requirements. We participate in the Hampshire Early Years Scheme for children aged three and four and your entitlement for up to 15 hours per week is without charge (subject to the scheme regulations). To discover more about all that Yateley Manor has to offer, come to one of our Open Mornings or arrange an individual visit. Please email Tanja Weddell at registrar@yateleymanor.com or telephone 01252 405500.

Churcher’s College Junior School, Midhurst Rd, Liphook Tel. 01730 236870 www.churcherscollege.com Open morning: 11th March 9.15am to 10.45am Open day: 16th May 9.30am to 1pm Farleigh School, Red Rice, Andover Tel. 01264 710766 www.farleighschool.com Spring open morning: 25th April 9.45am – 12pm Lord Wandsworth College, Long Sutton, Hook Tel. 01256 862201 www.lordwandsworth.org Open morning: 9th May Contact the school to reserve your place.

…are a small family owned group operating in Basingstoke. We have 3 settings all based in Basingstoke, each being unique in what it has to offer. All our settings are Ofsted rated ‘Good’. Cornerstone Nurseries are committed to ensuring that your children not only receive a foundation for their education, but are also recognised as individuals. Our nurseries all embrace the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) guidelines to ensure that your child’s individual needs are always met. To this end, our nurseries will offer your child the opportunity to develop their unique talents and abilities in a fun, safe learning environment of mutual care and respect.

Meet their expert staff, tour the industry standard facilities and find out everything you need to know about being a student at Sparsholt. Visit their website to find out more and to pre-register.

Our settings… Cornerstone Miss Muffet Abbey Court, Popley Way • Secluded educational garden • Cosy comfortable playrooms • Separate baby unit • 5* kitchen • Special diets catered for

Cornerstone Sunrise Aldworth Science College, Western Way • Free flow play/ large garden • Family rooms • Cosy small baby area • 4* kitchen • Special diets catered for

For more information please visit our website or call Cornerstone Day Nursery on 01256 818118. www.cornerstone-nurseries.co.uk

Treloar School, Holybourne, Alton Tel. 01420 547425 www.treloar.org.uk Open day: 11th March 1.30pm to 4pm Providing education, care, therapy, medical support & independence training to young people with physical disabilities. You must pre-book your visit by calling the school or using online booking system.

Sparsholt College, Westley Lane, Sparsholt Tel. 01962 776441 www.sparsholt.ac.uk Open day: 7th March 10am to 3pm

Cornerstone Nurseries

Cornerstone Day Nursery Priestley Road • Purpose built setting • Large open plan playrooms • Separate large baby unit • Landscaped ¼ acre garden • Free flow patios to all rooms • Indoor hall/play area • 5* kitchen

years and is consistently at the top of the GCSE league tables. It is situated in an extensive rural campus with superb facilities for science, sport, art, music and the performing arts. The school runs an optional extended day from 8am to 6pm with an exciting co-curricular programme. School buses run from Farnham, Basingstoke, Fleet, Alton, and Farnborough areas.

St Nicholas’ School, Redfields Lane, Church Crookham Tel. 01252 850121 www.st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk Open day: 7th March 10am to 1pm Open evening: 14th May 6pm to 8pm St Nicholas’ School Church Crookham educates girls from 3-16 years and boys from 3-7

Yateley Manor, Reading Rd, Yateley Tel. 01252 405500 www. yateleymanor. com Open days: 14th March 10am to 12pm & 24th April 9.45am to 11.30am • Co-educational day school 3 -13 years • Excellent academic results • Inspirational teaching in superb facilities • “Outstanding personal development” (ISI Inspection 2010) • National leader in chess and sport • Safe, vibrant, stimulating environment • Inclusive fee structure • Scholarships and bursaries • Coaches from Camberley, Farnborough, Fleet, Odiham and Hook • Work-friendly hours (8.00am6.30pm) • 49 weeks’ care for younger children • Woodland Learning Area

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 9

Childcare & Education Free Schools and Special Educational Needs Natalie Evans, director of New Schools Network, a charity that supports groups who want to set up free schools, talks about special free schools. Choosing the right school for your child is a daunting decision, even more so if it is a new school. Many parents have told me about the leap of faith needed to decide to send your child to a new school that lacks the traditional track record to help guide you; but more tell me how excited they are about having a new, and hopefully better, option available to their child. For many parents the struggle will be securing a place at a good local school that is already oversubscribed, but for parents of children with special needs, such as autism, finding a suitable school at all can be challenging. Even after battles for Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans and funding, the reality is that many parents may not have the option to send their child to a special school that is designed to cater for their needs. Too often, parents have to settle for a school that is not quite right for their child. This is slowly changing though. Free schools have been much debated for their impact on mainstream education, but their impact on special education has been far less discussed. They are still a relatively new phenomenon, but free schools are new independent state-funded schools that can be set-up by parents, teachers, charities, existing outstanding schools, community groups or other organisations, if they can prove they are both needed and wanted. Special free schools which, like all new free schools and academies, are independent from the Local Authority, are currently catering for a wide range of needs from social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) and Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD). Unlike their mainstream counterparts, special free schools rely on the local authority commissioning places at their school but it has been parents that have been the main driving force behind the setting up of many special schools across the country. Of the 363 free schools currently open or approved to open across England, 18 are special schools. Once full, these schools will create more than 1,800 new places. These numbers may sound small, but when you consider that there are just over 1,000 Special Schools in England at the moment, this is a significant addition to provision in England over just over two years. It’s an even more impressive

achievement when you consider that, no matter which type of group is behind the idea, they have to go through the same rigorous application process. Whatever school your child needs, choice can be a challenge: in a recent survey, NSN discovered that 80% of parents in SE would welcome the chance to have a new school in their area and 70% would consider sending their child to a free school if one opened locally. Around 5,000 children in Hampshire have either a statement of special educational need or an education health and care plan, and I would say to any parent: consider taking that leap of faith – ask yourself if a new special school could be the right choice for you and find out more about them. Find out more about schools in your area www.newschoolsnetwork.org Further information New Schools Network, is an education charity dedicated to improving the quality of education – particularly for the most deprived – by increasing the number of independent, innovative free schools within the state sector. There are four types of Free Schools: Mainstream, 16-19, Special and Alternative Provision. Free Schools cater for pupils from 4-19, whether it be a primary, secondary, ‘all through’ or standalone 16-19 setting.

VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS

11+ VERBAL REASONING VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS Expand your antonym and synonym knowledge Recommended by tutors for the verbal reasoning element of the Durham CEM test

www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk 10

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Easter A few ideas to keep the children occupied during the Easter Holidays!

Easter Crafts By Marianne Dolan, Asomo Crafts Ltd Easter is a lovely time to get crafty with your family but why not take the opportunity to upcycle some of your junk at the same time? You will probably find you have lots of bits and pieces lying about your house that can be used; just add a few basic craft supplies and you’re all set! Here are some simple ideas to get you started:

Rainbow Hunt Cards Cut egg shapes from plain card and stick on anything you can find in the colours of the rainbow. Brilliant opportunity to clear out the craft box and practice your colours at the same time! Small ones can be used for Easter cards or big ones can go on the wall.

Chicken Egg Cups One cup and one of the pointy bits in the middle of an egg carton look remarkably chickenlike once painted a bright colour (who says chickens can’t be blue?!), and given a beak and comb using red felt or card. Once it’s dry add eyes with a pen and two feathers for wings to finish it off.

Bunny Hunt My father always had us running all over the village for the annual Easter Egg hunt but here’s an easy idea that will work in the garden. Cut several rabbit shapes from corrugated cardboard, making sure the ridges run vertically. Paint white, grey or brown and draw on a face with a black pen once they’re dry. Slot bamboo skewers or thin sticks up one of the channels in the cardboard so you can plant a trail for the children to follow. If you get stuck just give me a ring on 01252 844210, and don’t forget to check out our Easter holiday activities on the website www.asomocrafts.co.uk

Join us for the première of Bricks in Motion The History of Transport in LEGO® Bricks at Milestones Living History Museum 25 February – 26 April 2015. Explore an impressive variety of scale model icons of transport made from LEGO bricks from pre-history through to a sci-fi future. During March you can help the Certified LEGO builder® from Bright Bricks to build a mega space rocket from LEGO bricks! Families can get involved in the Bricks in Motion explorer trail during their visit. Plus all the other popular activities such as: LEGO minifigure making* LEGO play tables Family mosaic activity (weekends and holidays) Dressing up costumes and under 5s play Post office Vintage penny arcade* 1940s sweet shop experience* You can even add a model to the new free-play Imagination Island! You can also pre-book a LEGO Fun session and other sessions for children on selected dates. Follow on Facebook and Twitter for updates, or see the website for more information. Normal entry fees apply. *additional fees apply for these activities. www.milestones-museum.com

Manydown Family Fun - it’s a farmers life for us! The bulbs are starting to pop up...Spring is on its way! It has felt like a long winter and the children can’t wait until they can get outside to play more. The local farm attraction Manydown Family Fun (near Basingstoke) opens daily for its Easter Lambing event from 28th March until 19th April. At Manydown children can have lots of fun and also experience the countryside ‘up close’. Energetic activities include racing in and out of the ‘rabbit warren’ and up the tractor tyre mountain; bouncing on the giant trampolines and inflatables; and winning on the new crazy golf course or at the sheep racing! There are also educational areas where you can meet new lambs, learn about lambing season, and an animal-handling area where you can hold chicks and rabbits. All activities are included in your ticket. The children can’t wait! Manydown Season tickets for unlimited entry to all four of this year’s events; Easter Lambing, May Half-Term, Summer Maize Maze and Pumpkin-Carving Event, are available from the website (£110 for a family of 4). For more information see the website or find them on Facebook. www.manydownfamilyfun.co.uk

WIN a day pass for a family of four to Manydown Family Fun To be in with a chance of winning answer the following question: Name three animals you could come and meet at Manydown Family Fun? To enter, go to www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk/ competitions Terms and conditions apply. Closing date is 31st March 2015

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 11

Easter The Holiday Programme at Frogmore Leisure Centre! Frogmore Leisure Centre in Yateley run a fantastic holiday programme during the school holidays for children 6 – 12 years. There are 2 great options to choose from; an All Day Playscheme or Stay and Play Sessions. All Day Playscheme: The All Day Playscheme is available from 8:30am – 6:00pm. Children should bring lunch and wear suitable clothing for playing and going outside. Snacks and drinks are provided in the morning and afternoon.* Stay and Play Sessions: These are available at the following times: 09:15-10:45, 10:15-11:45, 14:00-15:30 & 15:00-16:30

UK’s no.1 for childcare during the school holidays

Where the action never stops Monday-Friday • 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Activities for boys and girls ages 4-14 Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2014

01235 467300 www.supercamps.co.uk Basingstoke Advert.qxp_Layout 1 03/12/2014 14:17 Page 1

Children should wear suitable clothing for playing and going outside. Drinks are provided throughout the session.* Below are just some of the activities that will be taking place! Clay modelling, making giant bubbles, football, dancing, ultimate frisbee, music, basketball, slacklining, bouncy castle, hair braiding, dodgeball, face painting, and much more! All of these activities are supported by trained and experienced staff who have all been CRB/DBS checked for suitability.

Andover

01264 365457 Basingstoke

01264 353008

Please call us on: 01252 873454 to book your child’s space now! *Terms and conditions apply – please see website for more details. www.threesixfive.org.uk

Super Camps Holiday Childcare

Age 6-18

Spring Term enrolment and Easter Holiday Workshop

Fun, confidence-building, educational classes in acting, singing and dance.

QUALITY TRAINING ESTABLISHED 1988

An exciting new programme is in place for 2015 featuring more than 40 sports, arts and crafts for children aged 4 to 14. This Easter book your children into camps at the following venues: Rookwood School, Weyhill Road, Andover, SP10 3AL 7th to 17th April Sherfield School, Sherfield-on-Loddon, Hook, RG27 0HU 30th March to 10th April Contact 01235 467300 for more information or see their website for details. www.supercamps.co.uk

Easter Camp at Basingstoke Golf Academy 7th to 16th April Two hours of top coaching and playing on our junior golf course = fun for all at Weybrook Park Golf Club! Tuesdays & Thursdays only. For more information call the Professional Shop on 01256 333 232 or email steve@basingstokegolfacademy.co.uk.

HOLIDAY PROGRAMME for children aged 6-12 years at Frogmore Leisure Centre! We’ve got an all day playscheme and a great variety of shorter stay and play sessions available! For more details please visit: www.threesixfive.org.uk or call reception on: 01252 873454

Basingstoke Golf Academy, Weybrook Park Golf Club, Rooksdown Lane, Basingstoke, RG24 9NT www.basingstokegolfacademy.co.uk

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Frogmore Leisure Centre

www.threesixfive.org.uk

Potley Hill Road, Yateley, Hants, GU46 6AG Tel: 01252 873454 Email: frogmoreleisurecentre@hart.gov.uk

WHat’s ON Easter Holidays Family Fun Sessions at Basingstoke Aquadrome Basingstoke Aquadrome, Worting Road, Basingstoke, RG22 6PG Ongoing Visit one of the largest flume attractions in the country. Enjoy a great family day out with three large flumes; Space Bowl, Master Blaster, and Yellow Peril; rushing rapids, water features, spa pool and a baby beach. There’s also the H2O Pool Party every Friday from 6pm to 8pm and family fun sessions on weekdays during school holidays. Visit the website for more info or call 01256 472343. www.basingstokeleisure.com

Hollycombe - Steam in the Country Liphook, GU30 7LP Seasonal Opening from 3rd April Working steam museum with traditional fairground. Hollycombe will reopen for the 2015 season on Good Friday and will be open all Easter weekend, thereafter only on Sundays and Bank Holidays to mid-October. Revisit free of charge as many times as you like during a calendar year from date of first purchased entry. 11am to 5pm. Adults £14, children £10, family tickets available. www.hollycombe.co.uk

Cruises on the John Pinkerton II

See under ‘Out & About’ for details.

Basingstoke Canal, Odiham, RG29 1AL 3rd, 5th & 6th April Enjoy a cruise on the John Pinkerton II through the peaceful surroundings of the Basingstoke Canal. 2 1/2 hour trip departing from Colt Hill, Odiham. 2.30pm, with an additional cruise at 11am on 6th April. Adults £8, children under 16 £5, family (2+2) £25. www.basingstoke-canal.org.uk

Easter Egg Hunt and Mad Hatter’s Tea Party

Day out with Thomas

Bricks in Motion at Milestones

Ongoing to 26th April

Whitchurch Silk Mill, Whitchurch, RG28 7AL 28th March Organised by the EDGE Youth project. Join in this family Easter event for a fun afternoon out. 2.30pm to 4pm. www.whitchurchsilkmill.org.uk

Farming Fun at Easter! Manydown Family Fun, Scrapps Hill Farm, Basingstoke, RG23 8PU 28th March to 19th April Come and experience Spring on the Farm! See newborn lambs being fed, handle the chicks and rabbits, experience the tractor ride, and watch the sheep racing. Enjoy the ‘rabbit warren’; the giant inflatables; and the new crazy golf course! Fun for all the family. Season tickets now available for 2015 events (£110 for family of 4). www.manydownfamilyfun.co.uk

Mid Hants Railway Ltd, The Railway Station, Alresford, SO24 9JG 3rd to 12th April All aboard for a day out with Thomas! Experience a ride on a real steam engine; shake hands with The Fat Controller; take part in Thomas themed activities in the Imagination Station. Adults £18, children (2-16) £12, family (2+2) £54. www.watercressline.co.uk

Easter Eggstravaganza Finkley Down Farm Park, Andover, SP11 6NF 3rd to 19th April A great time to visit the farm with so many baby animals to see. Look out for the Mad Hatter and Easter Bunny who will be appearing each day. Follow the Easter Trail and win a prize. 10am to 6pm. From £7.50. www.finkleydownfarm.co.uk

spring...

Exciting forest activities for all ages. Ancient hunting skills, Secrets from the Trailcam, Dens, Campfire and Food, New Cycling Activity Trail and much more!

Booking essential call 0300 067 4448 forestry.gov.uk/aliceholt Alice Holt Forest

4167_BStoke Easter Ad_Families Mag_AW.qxp_87mm x 175mm 30/01/2015

A FUN PACKED

EASTER HOLIDAY Enrol for ing ASA Swimmr Lessons o e Crash Cours H2O POO PARTY, 3L FLUME RID PLUS MUCEHS, MORE!

at BASINGSTOKE AQUADROME and TADLEY SWIMMING POOL

TO FIND OUT MORE OR TO SIGN UP,

CALL YOUR LOCAL CENTRE OR VISIT: www.basingstokeleisure.com Basingstoke Aquadrome

Tadley Swimming Pool

Worting Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG22 6PG

New Road, Tadley, Hampshire RG26 3LA

Tel: 01256 472 343

SwimIn Basingstoke

Tel: 01256 472 343

@SwimInBstoke

Terms and conditions apply.

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 13

WHat’s ON Mad Hatter’s Tea Party West Green House, Thackham’s Lane, Hartley Wintney, RG27 8JB 5th April Join Alice and her Mad Hatter friends for special afternoon tea, complete with a glass of bubbles. Includes the opportunity to win a beautiful couture hat to be awarded to whoever wears the most enchanting Easter Bonnet. Ticket price includes glass of bubbles. Advanced booking essential. 2pm to 4pm. Adults £30, children under 16 £15. www.westgreenhouse.co.uk

Cadbury Easter Egg Trails The Vyne, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL 5th & 6th April Follow in the steps of Henry VIII and his hunters on your search for a Cadbury chocolate egghead. Every child gets the prize of a Cadbury chocolate egghead. 10am to 4pm. £2 plus normal admission charges. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/vyne

Sealed Knot Civil War action

Booking is essential for all activities at Alice Holt. Call 01420 23666 or see www. forestry.gov.uk/aliceholt.

Easter Workshop Stagecoach Theatre Arts School, Basingstoke 7th to 10th April Fun, confidence-building, educational classes in acting, singing and dancing. For ages 6-18 yrs. See their website for more information and to book. www.stagecoach.co.uk/ basingstoke

Basing House, The Street, Old Basing, RG24 8AE 5th & 6th April Experience the drama of the English Civil War with the Sealed Knot charity re-enactment group. 11am. Normal admission charges apply. www3.hants.gov.uk/basinghouse

Activities at The Lights

Activities at Alice Holt Forest

Easter Eggstravaganza 7th April Join Amanda in the arena for more fun with songs, dancing and another chance to parade in your Easter Bonnets. Bring a picnic and don’t forget to wear that hat! For under 6s and their families. 11am. £2.

Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, GU10 4LS Wild Learning Holiday Club 7th to 9th April From the secret camp deep in the woods venture out to try den building, fire making, mud sculptures, tree climbing, stream dipping and more. For ages 5 years+. 10.15am to 4pm. £37.50 per day. See www.wild-learning. net for more info. Dens, Campfire and Food 8th April Learn essential camp skills - den building, fire lighting and tasty cooking. Join in the fun to give mum a break, and get some tucker on your plate! For 8 yrs+. 2pm to 5pm. £12 per child. Hidden Wildlife and Secrets from the Trailcam 9th April Let’s get tracking, looking for signs, listening and even smelling the evidence of creatures living in the forest. For ages 6 to 10 yrs under 8s must be accompanied. 10am to 12pm. £8 per child.

Ancient Hunting Skills 11th April Discover how our ancestors would have tracked and hunted animals; use camouflage and stalking games to get close to and tune into the wildlife in the forest. Please bring a packed lunch and be prepared for any weather. Hot chocolate and biscuits will be served around the fire at break times. For ages 10 yrs+. 10am to 3.30pm. £30 per child. For more info contact info@ fieldfarmproject.com or see www. fieldfarmproject.com

West Street, Andover, SP10 1AH Classy Glassy Easter Eggs 7th April Design and create your own glass eggs to hang and keep forever. For ages 7 to 11 years. 10am. £16.

Chocolate Eggstravaganza 8th April Join Zoe for an eggstraordinary three hours of baking and chocolate craft creating your own Easter Eggs, cookies and truffles. 5 to 7 years: 10am to 1pm; 8 to 12 years: 2pm to 5pm. James and the Giant Peach Play-in-a-day 13th April A fun storytelling workshop with Amanda, based on Roald Dahl’s classic book. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a packed lunch. For ages 5 to 7 years. 10am. £16.50. Goldilocks and the Three Bears 14th April Join Amanda for music, movement and lots of make-believe! For ages 2 to 5 years. 10am, 11.30am & 1pm. £4.50. www.thelights.org.uk

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Activities at Basingstoke Discovery Centre Festival Place Shopping Centre, Basingstoke, RG21 7LS Charlie’s Storytelling Party: Room on a Broom 8th April Gorilla 16th April Join children’s entertainer and actress Charlie Sanderson for a super interactive 45 minute storytelling party. It includes singing, a giant parachute, bubbles and more! Book in advance to avoid missing out. 10am & 11.15am. £2 per child, adults go free. Free Children’s Film Screening 10th April An unlikely Lego construction worker and a whole cast of special Lego characters battle to save the Universe from the evil Lord Business. 2pm. Creepy Crawlies with Geoff Read 15th April Starring giant stick insects, a chile rose tarantula, giant millipede, giant land snails and more, children will love this creepycrawly experience led by a retired zoo-keeper. For ages 5-12. 9.30am, 10.30am & 11.30am. £2. www3.hants.gov.uk/library/bsdc. htm

Easter Quiz Hawk Conservancy Trust, Andover, SP11 8DY 11th April Fun general knowledge quiz. Teams of up to 6 people or come on your own and help make up a team. Ticket price includes a hot supper. 7pm. £10. www.hawk-conservancy.org

Out & about Activities at the Hawk Conservancy Trust Andover, SP11 8DY Owls by Moonlight Ongoing to 28th March Held on Saturday evenings throughout the spring giving guests the opportunity to see the owls really awake and at their best. Numbers limited so check website for available dates and to book. 7pm. Adults £29.50, children £16 tickets include a light supper. An evening with Lloyd & Rose Buck 7th March Bird trainers Lloyd & Rose Buck share humorous stories, clips of the Natural History programmes they have been involved with, as well as the chance to meet some of their feathered stars. Ticket

price includes tea & cake. Limited numbers, book early. 7pm. £15. www.hawk-conservancy.org

Disco Tots Alton Community Centre, Amery Street, Alton, GU34 1HN Ongoing Parent and toddler group, running every Friday during term time. 9.30am to 11am. £2.50 per family. www.altoncommunitycentre. org.uk

Busy Bees Craft Group Elizabeth Hall, Raven Road, Hook, RG27 9HH Ongoing Local pre-school children’s craft group run by parent volunteers. Each session is themed with two crafts shaped around this theme, with play-dough and painting also available. Each session incorporates a snack and drink, and a songtime at close. Term time, Fridays only. 9.45am to 11.15am. £1.50 under 18 months; £3 over 18 months (each additional child is £1). www.hookvillagehalls.org.uk

Bricks in Motion at Milestones Milestones Museum, Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG22 6PG Ongoing to 26th April The premiere of Bricks in Motion The History of Transport in LEGO Bricks. Explore an impressive variety of scale model icons of transport made from LEGO bricks from pre-history through to a sci-fi future. Additional LEGO sessions are also running: LEGO Fun - during weekends and school holidays. For ages 5 to 8 years. £7 per child. LEGO Masterclass - 28th & 29th March. For ages 7 yrs+. £10 per child. LEGO Mindstorms Challenge - 8th & 15th April. For ages 7 yrs+. £15 per child. All children must be accompanied by a paying adult during all LEGO sessions. Normal admission charges apply. Pre-booking is essential for LEGO sessions. Milestones is not open on Mondays, except for Bank Holidays. 10am to 4.45pm [11am at weekends]. www3.hants.gov.uk/milestones

Activities at Basingstoke Discovery Centre Festival Place Shopping Centre, Basingstoke, RG21 7LS

We take every care preparing these entries but please check websites in case details have changed. Astronomy for Kids 14th March With members of the Basingstoke Astronomy Society. 1.30pm. Star Gazing Live in Basingstoke 18th March With members of the Basingstoke Astronomy Society. 6pm. £2 www3.hants.gov.uk/library/bsdc. htm

Disco Skate The Harlington, Fleet Road, Fleet, GU51 4BY 20th March & 17th April DISCO SKATE bring you family roller disco nights once a month. 6pm to 9.30pm. £6 per person inc. skate hire. www.discoskate.co.uk

Performances The Anvil Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR www.anvilarts.org.uk Anton and Erin - That’s Entertainment Saturday 7th March, 3pm & 7.45pm Join the UK’s favourite dance couple as they combine the sophisticated elegance of their quick step, foxtrot, tango and waltz with the showbiz razzmatazz of hits and steps from stage and screen. £39.50 & £45.50. Sing-a-long-a-Frozen Saturday 14th March, 3pm & 7pm Disney’s Frozen is the new Singalonga must see! A full screening of Frozen with lyrics on screen to help you sing along with Anna and Elsa during the film. Remember to dress up as your favourite character! £16, under 16s £11. One Hundred Years On Tuesday 17th March, 7pm Musical reflections on the events of 1915 as seen through the eyes of pupils from Merton Junior School, Saxon Wood Special Needs School and Preston Candover CE Primary School. £6, under 16s £4. A Ray of Hope Variety Show Saturday 11th April, 7pm For one night only, come and watch a variety show featuring young talent from across the South of England. Dance, music, singing and more. £13, under 16s £9. National Children’s Orchestras of Great Britain Sunday 12th April, 3pm Featuring the best young musical talent the UK has to offer, the NCO makes a welcome return to The Anvil for the first appearance of the

2015 Under 13 Orchestra. From £11, under 16s £6. Beauty and the Beast - an Easter Pantomime Wednesday 15th April, 2pm & 6pm A fantastic treat for all the family starring comedy legend Bobby Davro as Silly Billy and Dani Harmer (CBBC’s Tracy Beaker and Strictly Come Dancing) as Beauty. £20, under 16s £18. Essence of Ireland Thursday 16th April, 7.45pm Based on true events, Essence of Ireland is a heart-breaking yet heart-warming story brought to life and set against the music and dance of Ireland, the USA and Spain. £22.50

The Harlington

JUNIOR COACHING Junior Roll-Up Class 1pm till 2pm on Saturdays Junior Club Class 2:30pm till 3:30 on Saturdays First Session is FREE with Junior Saturday Classes Contact us at steve@basingstokegolfacademy.co.uk or Tel 01256 333 232 Weybrook Park GC – RG24 9NT

Fleet Road, Fleet, GU51 4BY www.theharlington.co.uk Comedy Club 4 Kids Saturday 21st March, 2pm Recommended for children ages 6+, although younger may attend and thoroughly enjoy! This 60 minute show features the best comedians on the UK circuit, giving children the feel of a real comedy club - just without the rude bits! Tickets £7; family (2+2) £25. Only One Direction Saturday 11th April, 6pm The world’s only One Direction tribute band. Adults must be supervised by a responsible child! £12 adults, £14 children.

The Haymarket Wote Street, Basingstoke, RG21 7NW www.anvilarts.org.uk The Cat in the Hat Saturday 7th March, 1pm & 3.30pm Sunday 8th March, 11am & 1.30pm From the moment his tall, red and white striped hat appears around the door, Sally and her brother know that The Cat in the Hat is the funniest, most mischievous cat they have ever met. Ages 3 and over. £11. Hairspray Monday 16th to Friday 20th March, 7.30pm Saturday 21st March, 2.30pm & 7.30pm Big hair, big voices and tons of Hairspray! Brought to you by the Basingstoke Amateur Operatic Society. £16, under 16s £13.

The Lights West Street, Andover, SP10 1AH www.thelights.org.uk Puss in Boots Saturday 21st March, 11am Would you trust a talking cat? You never know, he might turn you from a pauper to a prince just like the hero of this story.

Nearly New Sales

Bordon Sunday 1st March

Duck in the Truck Friday 10th April, 11am This is the tale of a duck in a truck, a truck that was stuck in some yucky brown muck! From £6.

Lindford Village Hall, 35 Sycamore Road, Lindford, GU35 0RD. 10am to 12pm. Contact tracyh@ babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk.

Aladdin Saturday 18th April, 2.30pm & 7pm Join Ballet Theatre UK on a retelling of this exotic classic tale boldly brought to life through the entrancing magic of classical ballet. From £13.50.

The Hurst Leisure Centre, Brimpton, Baughurst, RG26 5NL. 2pm to 3.30pm. Contact tom@babyandchildrensmarket. co.uk.

The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre Station Road, Bordon, GU35 0LR www.phoenixarts.co.uk Stones & Bones Saturday 21st March, 2pm Squashbox Theatre’s new show is a marvellous mix of history and mystery! For ages 5 yrs+. Adults £6, children £4, family (2+2) £18.

Victoria & Appleton Centre West Green Road, Hartley Wintney, RG27 8RQ www.vandacentre.co.uk/index. html Swan Lake Friday 20th March, 7.30pm Saturday 21st March, 2.30pm Anthony Dowell’s production of the greatest romantic ballet.

Basingstoke Saturday 21st March

Fleet Sunday 22nd March The Key Centre, The Key, Elvetham Heath, GU51 1HA. 2pm to 4pm. Contact suehopkins@ babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk. Alton Sunday 12th April Wessex Arts Centre, Old Odiham Road, Alton, GU34 2LX. 10am to 12pm. Contact tracyh@ babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk. www.babyandchildrensmarkets.co.uk

Fleet Saturday 7th March Court Moor School, Spring Woods, Fleet, GU52 7RY. 10.15am to 11.30am. Alton Saturday 14th March Alton Maltings Centre, Maltings Close, Alton, GU34 1DT. 2pm to 3pm. Basingstoke Saturday 14th March Queen Mary’s College, Cliddesden Road, Basingstoke, RG21 3HF. 1.15pm to 3pm. www.nct.org.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 15

HCT_family_WOA_ad_87x130_STG2.qx:Layout 1

In partnership with

27/1/15

The Hawk Conservancy Trust

Home of Thomas & FriendsTM toys

• World-class flying demonstrations • Every visitor can hold a bird of prey • Keeper talks and feeding sessions • Over 150 birds of prey on view • 22 acres of woodland and wildflower meadow • Adventure play area • Ferret racing, duck racing and tractor rides during school holidays • Feathers Restaurant & Trust shop • National Bird of Prey hospital

Coming April 2015 ALL-NEW

Join Thomas & FriendsTM at a heritage Railway near you. Experience a ride on a real steam engine and take part in Thomas-themed activities.

MID HANTS RAILWAY ‘WATERCRESS LINE’ Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9JG

3RD - 12TH 2015

www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk

D I S P L AY

CONSERVATION EDUCATION RESEARCH REHABILITATION Visitor Centre, Sarson Lane, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire, SP11 8DY WE ARE LOCATED JUST OFF THE A303

01264 773 850 www.hawkconservancy.org www.facebook.com/hawkconservancy

Day Out With ThomasTM Thomas the Tank EngineTM. Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2015 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. © 2015 HIT Entertainment Limited.

@HawkConservancy

CHARITY NO: 1092349

BRICKS IN

MOTION The History of Transport in LEGO® Bricks 25 Feb to 26 April 2015 MILESTONES LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM Location: Leisure Park, Churchill Way, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG22 6PG

Opening times: Tue-Fri 10am-4:45pm, Sat-Sun 11am-4:45pm 01256 403900

Explore an impressive variety of scale model icons of transport made from LEGO bricks from pre-history through to a sci-fi future. • Bricks in Motion trail • LEGO Minifigure making • LEGO Play tables • Family Mosaic activity (weekends and holidays)

Get involved in a mega LEGO® rocket build throughout March! www.milestones-museum.com

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