Families Edinburgh Sep/Oct 2014

e e r F ®

ISSUE 86 September/October 2014

Artistic Director Julie Mitchell, LRAD, ARAD, AISTD Examiner of The Royal Academy of Dance

EDINBURGH DANCE ACADEMY Branches throughout Edinburgh and East Lothian

EDINBURGH DANCE ACADEMY Edinburgh's Premier Dance School * Ballet * Jazz * Modern * Tap * Drama * Singing A caring environment where pupils achieve their highest potential.

See us in the Pantomime at The Kings Theatre.

0131 337 3402

Classes for Children (from 4), Teens and Adults

www.actingoutuk.com 07704 714 607

hello@actingoutuk.com

Individual coaching, Workshop & Party Hire

Charlie and Lola™ and ©Lauren Child 2005

www.edinburghdanceacademy.co.uk 4-6 Coltbridge Ave, Edinburgh, EH12 6AH

Age specific football training for children at walking age - 7 years.

For more info contact: 07923 005534 Email: j.smith@soccerstarts.co.uk www.soccerstarts.co.uk

www.edtheatres.com/charlieandlola

EXAM RESULTS 100% PASS RATE

• Singing • Dancing • Drama • Musical Theatre

www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Email - editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Tel. 0131 622 0405

Copyright Š Families Magazine 2014. We take every 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. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families Edinburgh nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families Edinburgh is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Copyright Š on all artwork designed by Families shall remain with Families or contributor.

Welcome to the Back to School issue of Families Edinburgh.

I hope you’ve all had a lovely summer. I’d like to think back to school doesn’t mean the end of summer though!

Good luck to all the wee ones starting school for the first time and also to the mums and dads left blubbering in the school playground. (I was that sobbing mum!)

For those with pre-school kids I’m sure you’ll be delighted that normal service is resuming with playgroups, classes and activities.

And to everyone else - activity planners at the ready! It’s that time again when you discover that your child has a much fuller calendar that you do (or is that just me?).

Sarah

King Lear?

Leader of the opposition?

Antiques dealer?

What’s inside...

4–5 6 8 9 10 – 15 16 – 23 24 – 25 26 – 31

News and Views Is Your Child Reading Ready?

How To Create A Dialogue With Your Child’s School Choice, Diversity, Excellence - Scottish Independent Schools School News and Open Days Clubs, Classes and Activities Parent 2 Parent Holiday Review - Belfast Out and About

At Sparkle Arts we encourage children aged 1-5 to develop and learn through a fun mix of music, dance and drama. Our classes bring subjects to life to accelerate learning, whilst building confidence and improving social skills. It’s a creative education that will make little minds sparkle and teach children skills that will last a lifetime.

Go online to fid out more and book a class

Get in Touch Editor: Sarah Adair editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk 0131 622 0405 Keep up to date online at www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @familiesedinbur Find us on Facebook Designer: kdickson7@gmail.com

On the Cover Charlie and Lola’s Extremely New Play Sat 18 & Sun 19 October 2014 Sat 11am, 1.30pm, 4pm Sun 11am, 1.30pm Age: 3+ www.edtheatres.com/charlieandlola Charlie and Lola ™ © Lauren Child 2005.

Next issue November/December 2014 Christmas * Pantos * Gifts Booking Deadline September 30th 2014 Call 0131 622 0405 editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk 3 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 86

news and

views

Win a year's free softplay membership with Edinburgh Leisure Watch out in September for Edinburgh Leisure's 'Where's the bear?' competition. They'll be posting photos on their website and Facebook of their new mascot at locations around Edinburgh.

Simply email them with the correct locations to enter a draw to win a year's free softplay membership.

Full details will be on their websites, www.edinburghleisure.co.uk and www.eica-ratho.co.uk in September.

Happy Shoppers at Maddie & Mark’s Don’t you wish all shopping experiences with kids were as pleasant as shopping at Maddie & Mark’s Shoes? It’s fun, relaxed and the shops are bright, spacious and totally child friendly.

Blackhall and Portobello shops (and Play Town) now have a great ‘La Favorita Delivered’ play area where the little ones can whip up a pretend pizza or two. Blackhall has also had a fresh lick of paint and added a fabulous train and some fishy friends to keep the kids enthralled Of course, while the kids are amused, you can take time to peruse their fabulous autumn collection of shoes, clothes and accessories.

There’s a host of designer brands from the ‘ultra cute’ to the really ‘must have’.

Enjoy a Maddie & Mark’s Shoes near you - Blackhall, Bruntsfield and Portobello. Don’t forget the fun to be had at Maddie & Mark’s Play Town at Ocean Terminal too! www.maddieandmarks.co.uk

Dads Rock continue to expand!

Dads Rock was set up by two local dads, as they found that dads and male carers can often be excluded or marginalised from other early years settings. Dads Rock playgroups aim to be a fun, positive and rocking place for dads and children to come and play and learn together.

The playgroups are based in Granton and Westerhailes, and give dads and their children invaluable 1:1 time, there is free play, including instruments, a healthy snack, story and song time.

During the summer they also started running groups from their existing locations every Monday and Wednesday. The weekday groups are also free and run from 10-11am.

Find out more at www.dadsrock.org.uk

Party Planet Special Offer!

During September any exclusive use parties at Party Planet booked to take place in September and October 2014 are priced from only £11 per head.

Party Planet is a unique party venue, which offers themed and bespoke parties from ages 1+ to teenagers. Recent new additions include: Masquerade ball, Football Fever, balloon modelling and Ice cool 'Frozen'. Everything is taken care of from entertaining the kids, yummy party food, party bags, themed cups balloons and plates. No mess no stress, all you need to do is turn up and relax!

Planet Cafe is also open during the week, offering mini soft play sessions, offering a delicious menu, Artisan Roast coffee afternoon teas and home baking all in a warm comfortable cafe. 39 Baileyfield Road, Edinburgh EH15 1NA Tel: 0131 669 1231 Email: hello@planetcafeedin.co.uk www.planetcafeedin.co.uk

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Learn to Read in 5 Weeks for FREE* with the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge!

From 20 August to 30 September your child can join thousands of children across the UK taking part in the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge – a nationwide effort to inspire children to read!

Readings Eggs provides a comprehensive range of online reading lessons and eBooks that teach children aged 3–13 the literacy skills needed for lifetime reading success. The reason why over 90% of parents using Reading Eggs report a noticeable improvement in their child’s reading skills is because the programme makes learning phonics and basic reading skills fun.

Sign up for our special 5 WEEK FREE trial* as part of the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge and see for yourself how your child’s reading improves by using Reading Eggs.

Simply register your child at www.readingeggs.co.uk/scotland Registration is quick, easy and FREE! *Free trial only available to new customers who sign up at the above address. Not applicable for schools.

Volunteer with Girlguiding Edinburgh

Edinburgh artist Lisa Pettersson

Girlguiding is the leading charity for girls and young women in the UK. We build girls’ confidence and raise their aspirations. We give them the chance to discover their full potential and encourage them to be a powerful force for good. We give them a space to have fun.

Would you like to be part of the Girlguiding experience?

By volunteering with us you can help us create lots of great opportunities for girls in Edinburgh. There are lots of ways you can volunteer, whether it’s an hour or two every few months or a regular weekly commitment. Guiding is flexible and can be arranged to fit around a busy lifestyle. We need volunteers throughout Edinburgh for: • Rainbows (girls aged 5-7 years) • Brownies (girls aged 7-10 years) • Guides (girls aged 10-14 years) To find out more about the flexible volunteering opportunities we offer come along to one of our information evenings during our Volunteer Welcome Week from 29th September – 4th October.

For further information contact Alison Tel: 07542 767891 or email edincounty.recruitment@gmail.com. If you are unable to attend one of our information evenings but are still interested in volunteering with us please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/interested.

Edinburgh artist Lisa Pettersson keeps delighting parents and grand parents with striking and unique paintings of their children. ‘I’m hoping to get the Christmas orders in early this year, as last year was so busy, though I did eventually get them all done in time and everyone was very happy with the results’.

Ordering is easy, Lisa works from jpegs or prints that the customer sends, and recreates the picture in paint on coloured paper, in her unique pop art style.

Her own young children have also featured in many treasured portraits ‘I like working from photos that are special to me, of the kids in a moment that I treasure.

And the same goes for the photos my customers’ send me of their children – I enjoy recreating their personal happy moments.’

Prices start from £90 for an A4 image (including mount). Lisa will be very happy to send you examples of previous commissions and give you further information on how to commission. email: lisa@lisapettersson.com website: www.lisapettersson.com

Are you returning to the corporate world after a career break?

Or simply not had an interview in ages? Let me help you!

I know how scary those interviews can be, especially when you've been out of the workplace for a while, perhaps looking after your family. Most employers now use a structured interview process including competency based interviews, presentations, psychometric profiling and ability tests to find their ideal candidates – it's no longer just a chat about your CV. I can help you – I have 18 years' recruitment expertise including Financial Services, IT, Consultancy, Media and Recruitment Agencies. I'm totally independent, degree qualified, and certified in occupational testing.

Using an informal personalised one-to-one session I can help you: • Understand and prepare for a range of interview formats • Analyse the job description or advert to anticipate likely questions • Present the best possible image to a potential employer So if you have an interview coming up and would like help, please contact Fiona Anderson in Edinburgh on 07900 974421, or go to www.anderson.gb.com, or email fiona@anderson.gb.com for more details.

Autumn Shop at Treehouse Your favourite one stop shopping destination has gorgeous new autumn arrivals from ages 0-8 years. With fun dinosaur tops, to classic knitted dresses, autumn never looked so stylish! The shoe department is sure to impress, with the ever popular 'Nippy'

by Ricosta back in funky new season colours. So from first shoes, to coloured trainers and essential waterproof ankle boots, Treehouse will have autumn feet covered for all!

Treehouse's customer base is continually growing and they aim to keep their stock fresh and exciting. Take a look through some of their new brands including French brand Weekend a Le Mer, Skip Hop, Mi-PAC and Orange Tree Toys.

Celebrate Stockfest this September with Treehouse. Join them for a party on Saturday 20th September wih facepainting 10am-2pm and free taster classes with Step It Up, Monkey Music, Sparkle Arts, Sing & Sign and Tatty Bumpkin, lots of fun to be had. Plus, there will be 10% off all new season clothing from 20th-27th September. For more details go to Treehouse Childrenswear facebook page.

Shop Online: www.treehousechildrenswear.co.uk 10-12 Hamilton Place,Stockbridge, Edinburgh, 0131 2251242.

Autumn stock has arrived

Head to toe for your little monkey.

Select from a beautiful selection with quality and price point in mind.

Brands include Lilly & Sid, Kite Kids, Joules, Ricosta, Start-rite, Noel and many many more.

www.treehousechildrenswear.co.uk

Eat - Play - Party

50

% part off Open seven 12 c y for Days 9-5 hildr en Offe r 1.10 ends .14

10-12 Hamilton Place Stockbridge, Edinburgh, EH3 5AU

Tel: 0131 225 1242

31 Corbiehill Road Edinburgh EH4 5BQ

0131 312 7077 5 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 86

Is Your Child Reading Ready?

Kb-Insights Helping Children to Succeed The start of a new school session!

Did your child’s end of year report difficulty in concentration?

With so much focus on reaching milestones, and learning more, quickly are we setting our children up for an academic uphill struggle?

From the day they are born we seem to be using every available moment to teach our children sounds, letters, words using a variety of sources such as alphabet toys, letter cards, word books, ipads and computer games A child’s brain from pre- birth is developing and learning every day and the best kind of attention, nurturing and stimulation that parents can give is touching, holding, comforting, rocking, singing and talking.

Infants and children who are conversed with, read to and engaged in lots of verbal interaction may show more advanced linguistic skills than children who are not verbally engaged by their caregivers.

Children are only reading ready when they have developed their vestibular and proprioceptive sense (sensorymotor) – without this more children especially boys may be labelled with attention deficit disorders, and challenges with visual and auditory processing.

The vestibular sense means our sense of balance, and our proprioceptive system is our sense of the body in space. Is your child able to do these activities and movements?

• • • • • • •

Balance on one foot and count backwards without losing balance Balance on one foot for 10 seconds with eye closed Walk forwards and count five steps Walk on a balance beam Skip – with cross-lateral arm/leg Jump rope by themselves Sit still without fidgeting on a chair for 15 minutes.

If children are unable to do these then their sensory-motor systems may not yet be integrated and they may have difficulty focusing their eyes, focusing attention, listening, sitting still and remembering letters and numbers.

How to Help Your Child Become Reading Ready: Gross-motor Activities such as walking, climbing, running, rolling down hills, hopping, skipping, hanging from monkey bars, catching a ball, playing ball games, clapping, bike riding, jump rope.

Fine-motor activities such as drawing, painting, sewing, cutting with scissors, picking weeds, knitting, threading beads, old fashioned games ‘jack straws’.

Encouraging participation in healthy, rhythmic, and non-competitive activities will help our children develop the connections between their brain and bodies, which will later enable learning for reading, writing, spelling, numerical skills and creative and imaginative thinking.

Jane Oliver is the owner at BrightBrain Scotland and provides classes for children from age 4 upwards using the rhythmic movement programme Bal-A-Vis-X, Balance, Auditory, Vision, eXercises.

Training for parents,teachers and health professionals is also available, for more information contact call Jane mob:07512311317 www.brightbrain-scotland.co.uk E: jane’brightbrain-scotland.co.uk

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Highlight that reading is a struggle or they are unable to follow through on instructions? Have good ideas but cannot get them onto paper. Maybe simple physical tasks like dressing themselves, or writing present a challenge? You thought there was a difficulty with listening, yet a hearing test noted ‘normal’.

Such difficulties cause frustration so it may be a change in their behaviour you are dealing with. Maybe Poor social skills with peers are evident. Your child is just not keeping pace with others, yet you know they are intelligent. Any of this sound familiar?

Karen is an experienced Educationalist who looks beyond the presenting issues and offers a range of Interventions to support the development of reading, motor skills and listening and concentration. Various programme and assessment available Email Karen@Kb-Insights.co.uk Your child could benefit from the programmes offered by Kb-Insights - 07837930714 www.Kb-Insights.co.uk

Transition Time The start of the school year is a mix of excitement and apprehension. Children may move onto a new teacher, or relocation means moving schools.

For others it is transition from primary to secondary, or maybe going back to a situation where they have to face peers with whom they may have issues. Their imagination of what might be can run riot and cause them to be on high alert.

Parents inadvertently fuel their child’s anxiety by asking general questions to which their child doesn’t know the answer. This can fuel the child’s anxiety as it highlights subconsciously there is a lot of unknowns relating to the situation they are about to enter; new school or new school.

Psychology affects physiology and unless we can change the patterns there will be a set of responses which kicks off like a negative chain reaction.

Kids NLP works with children and young people to help them manage their emotions, anxieties and build their resilience: either through individual sessions with the child or in discussion with the parents. www.kidsnlpscotland.co.uk 07837930714

Advertorial

As a new school year begins, we take the opportunity to think about how your child’s learning and skills can be supported and developed through exciting extra-curricular activities.

Learning isn’t confined to the classroom. Developing life skills, building confidence and having fun are all part of every child’s education and personal development.

Research* has shown that children and young people who regularly engage in performing arts education have increased confidence and become more competent learners. They: • • • •

Enjoy school more Feel more confident in their communication Are better at problem solving Are more able to empathise and change their perspective • Are more innovative • Have better interpersonal skills Stagecoach Theatre Arts provides high quality teaching in drama, dance and singing for children aged 4-18 years and encourages life skill development that supports school learning. Children are split into age appropriate classes and do three, one-hour classes (90 minutes for 4-6 years) per week. Working alongside industry professionals, Stagecoach promotes creative risk taking and nurtures transferrable skills to produce creative thinkers. We believe that the experience of performing gives children a sense of belonging, wellbeing and confidence.

Singing and dance classes improve children’s numeracy skills through visualising number patterns and accurate listening. Drama, and working as part of a team, develops leadership and communication skills. In our increasingly sedentary society, dance classes make movement fun: children become stronger and fitter and develop a positive attitude to exercise. They develop empathy by bouncing off each other’s ideas and finding imaginative answers to reveal a bigger picture of the world. We believe in the power of imagination and creativity.

Students at Stagecoach Edinburgh are encouraged to think about how to communicate using appropriate expression and audibility. They are given techniques and exercises to increase vocal strength and articulation.

Students are also given the opportunity to enter into LAMDA exams, which are nationally recognised examinations run by the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts. Students work 1:1 with a qualified tutor and the tuition encourages students to excel in communication and performance skills. As the students progress through the grades, the exams are worth UCAS points and help with entry into University and Higher studies.

As your child starts a new school term, why not investigate how the performing arts could support their learning and nurture their potential? Parents at Stagecoach Edinburgh have commented on how the weekly classes have impacted their child’s learning: “We have 2 boys aged 9 and 11 who simply love their Saturdays at Stagecoach. It enhances their confidence and has really helped when they have to do 'talks' at school” (Parent of Angus and Torin) “We love Stagecoach - lots of fun and great challenges for the kids, the staff are 100% committed and really inspiring. Our daughter At Stagecoach Edinburgh, children develop their (almost 10) has been going for 5 years. Highly individual potential and skills and work as a team to put recommended by us and by her!” on high quality productions. Performances take place in (Parent of Tilly) theatre spaces, complete with costumes and stage lighting. This gives children the chance to find a level of For more information about Stagecoach Theatre professionalism in their work. Students are also given the Arts Edinburgh, please visit our website: opportunity to go on theatre trips, and take part in Master www.stagecoach.co.uk/edinburgh or call our classes with West End performers. We are currently Principal, Tina, on 0131 610 0636. booking a once in a lifetime trip for our children to Classes are now booking for our Autumn perform at Disneyland, Paris in 2015!

Class times / Locations: EARLY STAGES (4-6yrs)

Term and there is limited availability.

MAIN SCHOOL (6-18yrs)

VENUE

Friday 4.15pm – 5.45pm (Autumn Term: 29th August – 12th December) Saturday 9.30am – 11am (Autumn Term: 30th August – 13th December)

Friday 4.30pm – 7.30pm (Autumn Term: 29th August – 12th December) Saturday 10am – 1pm (Autumn Term: 30th August – 13th December)

DRUMMOND HIGH SCHOOL 41 Bellevue Place Edinburgh, EH7 4BS DANCE BASE 14-16 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2JU

*NEW CLASS* Saturday 4pm – 5.30pm (Autumn Term: 30th August – 13th December) Sunday 10.15am – 11.45am (Autumn Term: 31st August – 14th December)

Saturday 2.30pm – 5.30pm (Autumn Term: 30th August – 13th December)

FAIRMILEHEAD CHURCH 1 Frogston Road West, Edinburgh, EH10 7AA

Sunday 10am – 1pm (Autumn Term: 31st August – 14th December)

CALTON CENTRE 121 Montgomery Street, Edinburgh, EH7 5EP

*Dice report: www.dramanetwork.eu

7 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 86

How to create a healthy dialogue with your school or nursery

By Hannah Hunter

Research shows that the better your relationship with your child’s school, the more they will enjoy learning and do well.

©www.educationscotland.gov.uk

©www.educationscotland.gov.uk

The Osteopathic Practice • Unsettled colicky babies, flat head syndrome • Growing pains, asthma, glue ear, autism • Sports injuries, stiff back and neck pain

Tom Kelman, BSc (Hons) Ost, DPO Registered Cranial and Paediatric Osteopath

1 Wester Coates Avenue, Edinburgh EH12

0131 346 0134 Natural relief from pain and discomfort

However it’s often impossible to know what really goes on at school – children are not very forthcoming when it comes to recounting their day. If they do raise any issues, or if you sense something is amiss, it can be difficult to know how to broach the subject with school.

As both a parent and a primary teacher, I know how hard it can be to strike the right balance. If you’re meeting a teacher outside of parents’ evening or class surgeries, it’s because there is a problem.

These meetings can easily become tense, with both ‘sides’ on the defensive.

Here are a few tips for successful communication: Assume the best of your child’s teacher They are trained professionals who understand the curriculum and child development. They ultimately want the same as you – a happy child who is learning.

Let teachers know if there are problems at home You don’t have to go into graphic detail, just tell them if something’s happened which may affect your child’s behaviour.

Beano the Clown Magic, Balloons, Songs & Games -5s & +5s, 1hr & 2 hr,

Tel: 07948-070 569 Web: Beano.theclown.free.fr

Please don’t assume that your child always tells the truth! After all, teachers don’t automatically believe what your child tells them about home.

Remain calm and neutral “Little Johnny came home rather upset about xxx, I wondered what your take on it is…”, rather than “Why did you shout at Little Johnny like that?”

Mediation If you have issues with a teacher’s conduct, and feel upset or angry, it’s best that an additional member of staff is present.

Talk to the teacher first Even negative feedback is appreciated. Going directly to the head is a bit like them phoning your boss whenever your child misbehaves!

Remember that teachers are human They sometimes make mistakes, so try to forgive them for it.

Helping out in school Get an insight into how things are run and improve your relationship with the school by volunteering.

Parent Helper Helping out in class can be fun and rewarding. Research shows that having a parent who volunteers improves a child’s experience of school.

School Trips This one is great for ingratiating yourself. On what is invariably a stressful day, a responsible parent helping out can be a lifesaver!

Use your Expertise Maybe there’s a school club that would fit your skill set or interests. If not, you could talk to the class or even do an assembly. One volcanologist parent at my son’s school did a legendary presentation including exploding volcanoes.

Join the PTA Fostering closer home-school links, the PTA usually organise the school’s fundraising projects, from fetes to family quiz nights. Run by committee, they may include ‘class reps’ who pass on information from other parents in the class.

Parent Council member The Parent Council encourages links between the school, parents, pupils, pre-school groups and the wider community. To find out more out the role of the Parent Council go to www.educationscotland.gov.uk

For tips on Back to School like how to settle a child at nursery or health packed lunches etc go to www.familiesonline.co.uk

We can help you get back to work after a career break.

The PCT Partnership’s highly successful 8 week part time course for Women Returning to Work gives you tuition and 1-1 feedback on writing your CV, completing application forms and preparing for job interviews, as well as helping you to update your IT skills. The course will also re-introduce you to today's working environment and give you guidance and support in finding a job.

Our courses are funded by Skills Development Scotland and are free if you live in Edinburgh and the Lothians and have been away from work for 13 weeks or more. Our next course starts on 29 September 2014.

For information call The PCT Partnership on 0131 622 6240 or email training@thepctpartnership.co.uk

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Be at the heart of your child’s learning Children do better when families support their learning. From reading together, spending time talking and listening, to finding out about their day – your involvement makes a world of difference to your child.

Parentzone parentzonescotland.com is a website dedicated to providing you, as a parent or carer, with the most up to date information about your child’s education.

There is practical advice and tips to support learning at home during everyday activities, information on choosing a school and coming soon a whole new section on Additional Support Needs.

Parentzone will be re-launched at the Scottish Learning Festival (www.scottishlearningfestival.org.uk) on 24 and 25 September.

Parents are welcome to register for this free event and to come along to the Parent Connect zone.

InDEpEnDEnt SCHool nEwS

Choice, Diversity, Excellence Independent schools in Scotland offer you the choice of small and large day schools, boarding schools, co-educational, and single-sex schools. As a group independent schools draw students from all sections of the community, and students who attend independent schools are as diverse as the schools themselves.

Choosing a School Parents choose to send their children to independent schools for many different reasons, but above all, they will feel a particular school will best serve their child and their child’s social and educational needs.

All independent schools in Scotland have their own unique ethos and values, but they share a common goal of encouraging each individual pupil to be all that they can be, and to make the most of their time at school. They enjoy a reputation for wide subject choice, a focus on co-curricular pursuits, smaller pupil/teacher ratios and consistently strong exam results. The choice of mainstream schools is wide and there are also special schools that provide care and education for children with additional support needs.

All schools encourage visits from prospective families during their Open Day or at any time during the school year. Staff will be delighted to answer any questions that you may have.

You can find details of independent, fee-paying schools in Scotland on the SCIS website at www.scis.org.uk ‘Around 31,000 children of mixed abilities from diverse social backgrounds are educated at independent schools in Scotland with around 20% of pupils receiving some financial assistance from the schools.’

A good nursery will give your child a great start in life It is never too early to think about your child’s education and an independent school nursery will give your child a great start in life. Over half the independent schools in Scotland have a nursery and while some cater for children in their pre-school year only, others admit children at age 3, 2 or earlier. Fully qualified teachers and experienced early years staff will ease your child through the transition from home to nursery and from preschool to school. No two independent school nurseries are the same and with each school offering something different, visit as many as you can before deciding which one is right for you.

Curriculum and qualifications Independent schools in Scotland have a strong tradition of academic attainment, reflected in pupils’ performance in public exams. Many schools follow the Scottish curriculum with exams awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Authority. Most boarding schools follow the English curriculum, offering GCSEs, AS and A levels. A few now offer the International Baccalaureate and others are considering its merits.

Meeting the Cost Schools are sensitive, particularly in the current economic climate, to the sacrifices that many parents make in order to afford school fees. All schools provide some level of fee assistance, usually awarded on the basis of financial need. This is done to enable children from lower income households, who otherwise would not have the opportunity of an independent education, to benefit, and schools welcome applications for fee assistance.

‘The total amount of Financial Assistance provided by independent schools in Scotland has been rising steadily in recent years and in 2013 reached over £35 million.’

Boarding in Scotland Scotland’s Boarding Schools welcome students from all over the UK, Europe and the rest of the world. All 18 boarding schools in Scotland are situated in safe, spacious and idyllic surroundings: from large city boarding schools to smaller rural locations, there is something for everyone. For further information on Scotland’s boarding schools visit www.scotlandsboardingschools.org.uk/ Admissions Parents are advised to make enquiries early – preferably a year in advance – although schools will be as accommodating as possible. The usual admissions cycle is outlined below, although dates should be checked with individual schools.

September to November November to December January to March June August to September

Open days Application deadlines Entrance tests Induction days Start of school year

Information, advice and guidance about choosing an independent school in Scotland are available from the Scottish Council of Independent Schools (SCIS).

W: www.scis.org.uk T: 0131 556 2316 E: info@scis.org.uk

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InDEpEnDEnt SCHool nEwS

the Edinburgh Academy The Edinburgh Academy is a school with a proud history and an outward vision. Founded in 1824 we pride ourselves on carrying forward strong traditions whilst also constantly striving to innovate.

We are fully coeducational from Nursery through to Senior School, and our School size allows us to cater for the needs and ambitions of your son or daughter. We believe in excellence in education and that every child deserves the best possible chance to develop their unique talents. The School’s high staff ratios allow us to tailor our teaching and pastoral care to the needs of each individual pupil.

In addition to striving for academic excellence, the Edinburgh Academy recognises that learning also takes place outside the formal classroom curriculum and our pupils enjoy a full programme of co-curricular activities to ensure a well-rounded education. All have the opportunity to develop a wide range of interests in sport, music, drama and the creative arts, and these opportunities flow seamlessly from the Junior to Senior School. Pupils’ horizons are further broadened by cultural, sporting and outdoor education expeditions to a variety of destinations across the globe.

The Academy supports each child in their preferred education path, and provides individual, personalised teaching across the full syllabus to help them reach their goals. To ensure open access to the benefits of an Academy education, we offer financial support through our Bursary scheme and provide Scholarships to reward and encourage academic excellence and talent in art, sport and music. We take pride in the fact that there are Academicals around the world that look back on their Academy education as their first crucial step on the ladder to success.

We offer flexible care between 8am and 6pm for children aged 3 to 11 years through our Early Birds and After School Clubs and out with term time our Holiday Clubs run offering a safe caring environment for children with lots of fun activities.

We would be delighted to welcome you and your family to the Academy, either to Open Day on the 4th October or for an individual visit. Please contact Admissions on 0131 624 4987 or admissions@edinburghacademy.org.uk for more information.

Small enough to care...

Big enough to matter

To find out more please visit our website www.edinburghacademy.org.uk Fee assistance can be made available.

Terms and conditions apply.

The Edinburgh Academy is a registered charity, no SC 016999.

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Edinburgh Steiner School Steiner Schools differ from other independent schools in both curriculum and approach. From age 3 - 18 years, subject matter is linked to the developmental stage and age of the pupil, which both inspires and motivates them.

All subjects are linked together interweaving academic, artistic and practical subjects – something that the Scottish Government’s Curriculum for Excellence is striving to achieve.

Excellent exam results, small class sizes and the introduction of modern language education from the Kindergarten onwards are all underpinned by outstanding pastoral care. We consistently score among the highest marks in the country in both GCSE and Higher examinations and are proud to produce able young people, who have the spirit and entrepreneurial flair to become productive adults.

Moving Schools Moving schools can be a daunting prospect for children of all ages but the Edinburgh Steiner School is experienced when it comes to settling in new pupils at any age and stage. Carefully structured academic support is given to new pupils to enable them to reach the same level as their peer group. This is particularly important for pupils who join midway through the school and for those who have not had the opportunity to study a Modern Language previously.

All pupils at the Edinburgh Steiner School receive French and German lessons from age 6 and extra classes are arranged for new pupils, which are phased to ensure they are not overwhelmed with extra work.

Nina Mega, who left to study languages at Edinburgh University in 2013, explains: “I joined the School in Class 9 from a much bigger state school. It was very easy to fit in.

Everyone was so friendly and made me very welcome and I felt at home straight away.

I’d never studied German before but I had extra lessons and got an A for my Higher German. I would recommend the School to anyone who wants to learn in a pleasant and kind environment.”

The Edinburgh Steiner School operates an all year round admissions policy and, once accepted, encourages new pupils to attend a visit for up to three days to enjoy classes with their peer group, meet their teachers and learn more about what the school has to offer.

InDEpEnDEnt SCHool nEwS

A Family Education with ESMS ESMS are a unique family of independent schools for boys and girls.

At ESMS, we believe we have developed a community that gives children the best of all educational approaches, and this variety ensures that our children are able to make the best social, emotional and academic progress possible.

Our children are taught together from Nursery to Primary 7, where they then receive the benefits of single-sex senior education before joining together again for a co-educational 6th Form.

The best start in life We are passionate about giving our children the very best opportunities, and for us that starts on day one. From age three, we welcome children into the ESMS family, where they immediately begin to benefit from all the resources our three schools have to offer. Our £1m Early Years Centre provides a safe and homely environment in which our girls and boys take their first educational steps. With a staff ratio of one adult to six children, we provide the individual and personalised attention that is so vital to a child’s healthy development. Our Nursery was rated “Excellent,” the highest category, in the most recent, August 2013, Care Inspectorate report.

Playful learning We believe it is never too early to inspire a child’s curious mind. That is why each of our pre-school classes is led by a qualified teacher, assisted by two Nursery Nurses and Teacher Assistants. Together they create a stimulating and supportive atmosphere in which our girls and boys learn through play. We also guarantee school places to each preschool child – with no entrance assessment.

Flexible childcare We have developed flexible childcare solutions to suit each family’s needs both during term time and school holidays, providing care from 7.50am to 6pm in our After-School Centre.

Happy community Stewart’s Melville College was named Scottish Independent Secondary of the Year in 2013 and The Mary Erskine School in 2012, both for the education received and the extracurricular opportunities available which have included performing in The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the third time in 2014. From Nursery to Senior School we help our children to learn our Nine Values including kindness and respect and this creates a happy school community where each child feels valued. Come along to our Open Day on Saturday 20 September, 10am-1pm, and find out more.

the School for Girls Designed for girls in 1888, St George School for Girls, in Murrayfield, has promoted and provided educational excellence for girls since its establishment.

As an all-through girls school we have a tremendous opportunity to make the education we offer seamless, with smooth transitions from one stage to the next. In an environment free from gender stereotypes, our students flourish, are able to take risks and master new skills. As a result, they not only achieve outstanding academic results, but develop into confident, well-rounded individuals.

We were named as the top Scottish Independent School for our Advanced Higher results by the Financial Times in 2012 and by Best Schools in 2013.

With a junior school size of around 200 girls (and a whole school of 800), St George’s is relatively small. Our girls receive more teacher attention than they might get elsewhere, but the school is big enough at the top end to be enormously flexible, especially where subject and course choice is concerned.

For their primary education our girls are taught in small classes (but, at 16-19, big enough to provide interest and dynamism), with their learning enhanced by specialist teaching for modern languages, music, PE, art and drama.

Our girls start secondary education in Remove (P7 equivalent), a year earlier than most other schools, in our Lower School, where they spend three years before moving to the Upper School to complete their secondary education. In Upper School we help girls choose the qualifications that will suit them; we support them and their parents so that they may have the best possible chance of getting to the university or career of their choice.

Throughout the school the level of participation in sport, and extra-curricular activities in general, is astonishingly high, and our girls excel in – and more importantly enjoy – every area of curricular and extra-curricular life. There are dozens of clubs, sports, choirs and ensembles to choose from, with capacity for everyone at all levels of ability.

Come along to our Open Morning to find out more on Saturday 27 September and Wednesday 1 October at 10 am. For further information visit www.stge.org.uk

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InDEpEnDEnt SCHool nEwS

loretto School Founded in 1827, Loretto is a boarding and day school for just over 600 boys and girls aged 3 – 18 set in an 85 acre leafy campus just to the east of Edinburgh.

Loretto is deliberately small, allowing a purposeful and caring family atmosphere.

There is a rigorous academic programme and high expectations, with first class pastoral care. The School is well known for its emphasis on the development of the whole person in mind, body and spirit and is made up of two parts - the Junior School (3-12 years) and the Senior School (aged 12 and over).

Loretto Junior School (ages 3-12), affectionately known as ‘The Nippers’, is a special place. Here is a community where every individual matters, a School which offers the space and opportunity for everyone to find their own route to success - whether in academic achievement, sport, art, music, drama or a host of other activities. The School’s size and campus enable pupils to enjoy the freedom of their childhood within a safe and caring environment. Small classes allow all children the chance to discover and develop their talents, whilst receiving maximum individual attention.

Loretto Senior School (aged 12-18) develops intelligent, caring, creative, confident, compassionate and successful people who are at home anywhere in the world and doing the most amazing things. Their achievements and attitudes are the twin hallmarks of their good schooling.

Recently described by inspectors as 'leading the way in innovative practice', an impressive 95% of Loretto pupils attend their chosen university.

Loretto's Golf Academy continues to attract keen and talented young golfers from all over the United Kingdom and beyond.

There are dedicated School buses to and from Edinburgh and the Lothians. Flexible boarding options are available.

Financial support, worth up to 105% of the fees, is available.

To find out more, come along to one of our Open Mornings; Loretto Junior School – Saturday, 27th September Loretto Senior School – Saturday, 4th October

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George Heriot’s School Heriot’s has a reputation for excellence both in terms of academic success and extracurricular provision.

Our pupils are great individuals, brimming with confidence and pride in their school.

Heriot’s pupils continue to do extremely well in their examinations – down to the outstanding professionalism and skill of our talented staff and the natural flair, hard work and dedication of our pupils.

We are confident of excellent results again this session.

However, exam grades are only a small part of the picture. At all stages throughout our Junior and Senior Schools, Heriot’s cultivates an ethos of care reinforced by outstanding guidance and our commitment to charitable fundraising and voluntary service. Our pupils also benefit from an extraordinary number of extra curricular activities, ranging from the 29 sports on offer to a huge variety of musical, dramatic and other possibilities; the emphasis, once again is on taking part – in everything we do we want to encourage our young people to participate, to try hard and to be happy.

For us, the highlight of our Open Morning, which this session will fall on Saturday 27 September, will once again be the turnout of pupils, Junior and Senior, willing to volunteer to give up their Saturday to show prospective pupils and their parents their School. We hope you will join us for a happy and fun morning and discover the warm community that is George Heriot’s School. You are also most welcome to visit the School on ‘normal’ days – visits are easily arranged by contacting our Admissions Department on 0131 221 6709.

Choosing a school for your child is a very important decision. Our most important publicity come from our current and former pupils and parents so do please feel free to speak to them! We look forward to meeting you and helping you discover what is behind the stones.

InDEpEnDEnt SCHool nEwS

All on one Campus Watson’s is characterised by a warmth often associated with smaller schools, but unashamedly exploits the advantage of size to the full. They work hard to help pupils to settle in to their new environment, and it is arguably the warm welcome from the pupils that makes the biggest impact.

It is a close-knit community, for girls and boys from Nursery through to S6. While all benefit from the exceptional range of opportunities available to them on a single campus, pupils enjoy secure, friendly, and stimulating areas to call its own.

Academically, it provides an enviable choice of subject and levels. Now S5 and S6 pupils can choose between SQA examinations or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB), with Watson’s the only Scottish school to offer the IB as an alternative choice alongside SQA qualifications.

The breadth of opportunity also extends beyond the classroom to a thriving extracurricular scene. An extensive choice of musical and sporting activities, along with those representing politics, environmentalism, business and the arts, is on offer.

All of this requires committed staff and excellent facilities. The state-of-the-art George Watson’s Centre for Sport, opened by former pupil, Sir Chris Hoy, provides magnificent unrivalled sporting facilities on campus for GWC pupils.

George Watson's College is ideally placed in the South of Edinburgh and can be easily accessed from East Lothian, Midlothian, West Lothian and the Peebles area. All these places are serviced by buses organised through the school, as is Haymarket Station, for those travelling to Edinburgh by train.

Flexible wrap around and holiday care is available for younger pupils to fit the needs of modern family life.

Go along to their Open Morning on 4 October, meet the new Principal, Melvyn Roffe, and see what it means to be part of the Watson’s family.

Merchiston, Edinburgh Merchiston is unique in Scotland as a boarding and day school for boys aged 7-18.

Teaching of the youngest boys (7-10) takes place in a dedicated modern building, whilst the older boys (11-18) are taught in specialist senior facilities. All pupils have access to excellent opportunities including 20 sports and 30 co-curricular activities.

With daily transport to school from various Edinburgh locations and flexible collection times, Merchiston provides an ideal solution for busy parents.

“We are a very nurturing school with the highest standards of pastoral care. We believe firmly in the significance of a boy’s academic platform in putting him in a position of choice, but equally, the co-curricular activities teach the boys vital life skills. Essentially, we develop all-rounders with a sense of values.”

Andrew Hunter, Headmaster The warmth with which Merchiston parents speak of the School is rather special.

“It has been refreshing that we have been treated as individuals. The care and attention given to us and our son has been incredible. We feel that we are part of a special community where we are always made welcome.” Parent “In every respect - academic, sporting and pastoral - the School has exceeded our expectations, and continues to do so. In particular, the staff appear to have an almost magical ability to maximise the potential of every boy, irrespective of their natural talents.

But above all, it is the Merchiston ‘end product’ that impresses us year after year; the young men who leave the School for university each year are polite, confident gentlemen, whom any parent would be proud to call their sons." Parent For more information, please contact Admissions: Philip Rossiter (Senior Entrance) 0131 312 2201, Kay Wilson (Junior Entrance) 0131 312 2204, or email admissions@merchiston.co.uk

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InDEpEnDEnt SCHool nEwS

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All on one Campus Our aim is not merely to make children understand, but so to touch their imaginations as to enthuse them to their innermost core.” – Maria Montessori At Edinburgh Montessori Arts School we are passionate about our personalised and progressive educational approach. As an authentic Montessori environment, recognised

by Montessori Education U.K., our small school is a learning sanctuary with the benefits of both city and countryside on our doorstep.

Our teachers support each phase of development by recognising when a child has reached mastery and is ready for new challenges. Children learn and grow at their own pace as valued members of our close-knit school community.

Our drama, music, dance and art specialists inspire a plethora of stimulating creative activities in addition to the generous opportunities provided by the Montessori classroom environments.

Our children enjoy daily time outdoors bringing them in close contact with their natural surroundings. Our “Discovery Garden” has grown in collaboration with the children, teachers and parents to provide inspiring spaces for work, play and mindfulness. Out in the paddocks the children spend time in open-ended exploration and environmental projects.

For children from one year onwards our Infant Community is a home from home, in which they discover and learn in the most calm, supportive surroundings.

From three years old children move to ‘Children’s House’, our nursery class, where all aspects of their development are given time and encouragement, helping to nurture a lifelong love of learning.

Our Elementary classroom is the base from which our primary pupils explore the world. With its roots in science, knowledge and understanding, the Montessori curriculum provides the springboard for the children’s emergent interests: a complete Montessori education, complemented by their work with our creative arts specialists. Our pupils’ academic achievements are underpinned by strong intrinsic motivation and a desire to be their “best self”.

why Fettes?

Fettes College has over 5,000 Old Fettesians who remain in touch with us for one very compelling reason: being educated at Fettes was one of the most important and beneficial aspects of their lives.

Fettes is where their confidence was built, horizons broadened, talents nurtured and lifelong friendships made.

Where they achieved exam success, broke sporting records, were inspired by teachers and learnt the skills which would equip them for later life.

Fettes is where they were enthused, praised and encouraged to work hard and achieve the very best they could, while being surrounded by like-minded peers and caring staff.

To this day, a Fettes education is an incredible start to life.

Fettes is renowned around the world for the quality of education we provide which naturally includes superb academic results. We are by no means an academic hot-house but we do believe that with expert tuition and encouragement, every child can maximise their academic potential.

The skills and talents of each of our pupils are recognised and rewarded whether that be in the classroom, on the sports field, in the concert hall, on the stage or in the gallery. We are incredibly proud of the level and variety of their achievement– a true reflection of an all-round education. The ethos at Fettes is very much about the pupils challenging themselves and working hard to achieve their goals, whatever they may be.

To confirm your attendance at Open Day (Sunday 5th October from 1.30pm), request a prospectus or arrange a visit, please contact our Registrar, Mrs Harriet Marshall on 0131 311 6744 or email admissions@fettes.com

the City of Edinburgh Music School The City of Edinburgh Music School is unique. It is the only specialist Music School that covers the whole age range from 4 to 19 and is totally funded by the Scottish Government so it does not charge any fees. Entry is by audition and the gifted children selected receive specialist tuition in all aspects of music while based full-time at newly built state-of-the-art facilities in Flora Stevenson Primary and Broughton High Schools in Edinburgh.

The City of Edinburgh Music School is unique. It is the only specialist Music School that covers the whole age range from 4 to 19 and is totally funded by the Scottish Government so it does not charge any fees. Entry is by audition and the gifted children selected receive specialist tuition in all aspects of music while based full-time at newly built state-ofthe-art facilities in Flora Stevenson Primary and Broughton High Schools in Edinburgh.

The school was selected to become the first UK All Steinway School of Excellence in the UK and has 25 Steinway pianos – at least one in every teaching space. There are also professional standard recording studios, rehearsal rooms and performance spaces seating up to 500.

Student Anna McLuckie has recently featured on BBC1’s The Voice and a recording made by Music School students has been released on Peter Gabriel’s Real World record label to tie in with the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Cultural Programme. In 2012 students were invited to take part in the Olympic Celebrations in London.

Sir Simon Rattle, CBE is the patron of the Music School. Financial assistance is given for travel if students live further afield, and there is also a trust fund to provide scholarships and resources for specialist music students.

With all the advantages of expert individual tuition and the social mix of a large, successful state school - each child's gift for music is developed in a well-balanced and happy environment.

Contact: Tudor Morris (Director) 0131 332 7805 www.edinburghmusicschool.co.uk musicschool@broughton.edin.sch.uk

open Mornings and open Days at a Glance Merchiston Castle School - Information Morning Saturday 13th September 10am ESMS - Open Day Saturday 20 September, 10am-1pm George Heriot’s School - Open Morning Saturday 27th September 9.45am - 1pm St George’s School For Girls - Open Morning Saturday 27 September and Wednesday 1 October at 10 am.

Loretto Junior School Saturday, 27th September Loretto Senior School – Saturday, 4th October Edinburgh Steiner School - School tour Friday 3rd October The Edinburgh Academy - Open Day 4th October Edinburgh Montessori Arts School - Open Day Saturday October 4th. 9am - 1pm George Watson’s College - Open Morning Saturday 4 October. 9.30am - 12.30pm Fettes College - Sunday 5th October 1.30pm

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Clubs Classes & Every child is different - in our house one of my daughters is all Disney and dancing while the other is more Kick Boxing and keyboard using (the computer that is!)

Fortunately, from Art to Zumba there’s an activity out there for every child, providing the opportunity to make friends, build new skills and grow in confidence. We’ve listed contact details below and you can find out more over the next pages. If you get in touch with anyone do tell them you found out about them in Families Edinburgh.

ACTIvE BODIES

DAnCE

MUSIC

3v2 SOCCER ACADEMY Roddy 07872448788 Murdo 07969434840 www.3v2socceracademy.co.uk EDInBURgH LEISURE www.edinburghleisure.co.uk gYMInI - 0131 334 3657 www.gymini.co.uk LITTLE nInJAS - 0800 028 9320 www.little-ninjas.co.uk RUBgY TOTS - 0845 313 3252 www.rugbytots.co.uk SOCCERSTARTS - 07923 005534 www.soccerstarts.co.uk SWIMMIng nATURE - 08445 04506 www.swimmingnature.com TATTY BUMPKIn - 0845 6804102 www.tattybumpkin.com/edinburghwest TUMBLETOTS - 01875 819966 www.tumbletots.com/Edinburgh gYMBOBS - 01875 819966 email joletelier.lobos@virgin.net

@DAnCE SCOTLAnD - 0131 667 6519 www.atdancescotland.com AngELA WATSOn SCHOOL OF DAnCE - 0131 661 9590 www.angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk CEILIDH KIDS www.ceilidhkids.com DAnCE BASE - 0131 225 5525 dancebase.co.uk DAnCE FOR ALL - 0131 226 5533 www.danceforall.co.uk DISCO DUCK - www.facebook.com/discoduckedinburgh discoduckedinburgh@btinternet.com DYnAM-nIC DAnCE - 07545551271 www.studiodedinburgh.co.uk THE EDInBURgH DAnCE ACADEMY - 0131 337 3402 www.edinburghdanceacademy.co.uk LOTHIAn DAnCE ACADEMY - 0131 669 9073 www.lothiandance.com STEP IT UP DAnCE - 07428 110 135 www.stepitupdance.co.uk WATERFROnT DAnCE STUDIO - 07772504958 www.waterfrontdancestudio.co.uk

CUSTOM MUSIC 4 U - 0131 441 3262 www.custommusic4u.com EDInBURgH YOUng MUSICIAnS - 0131-226-3392 www.e-y-m.org.uk KInDERMUSIK WITH ELLIE - 079 62678561 www.kindermusikwithellie.co.uk JACK AnD JILL MUSIC FUn FOR TOTS - 07809 154415 www.jackandjill-music.co.uk JO JIngLES - East Edinburgh - Susan 0131 620 3282, West Edinburgh - Joanne 0131 443 4196 or East Lothian - Leigh 01875 616607 www.jojingles.com MInI MUSIC MAKERS - 0141 287 2943 www.nycos.co.uk/mini-music-makers.

MOnKEY MUSIC comelybank.corstorphine@monkeymusic.co.uk or Tel: 0131 260 9667 0131 441 4581 or emailing morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk MOST EnTERTAInIng - 0131 477 7821 www.mostentertaining.com MUSIC BUgS - 0844 822 1159 www.musicbugs.co.uk/edinburgh-west/ PORTOBELLO MUSIC SCHOOL - 0131 669 1120 www.porotbellomusicschool.com ST MARY’S MUSIC SCHOOL - 0131 538 7766 www.st-marys-music-school.co.uk STRIng BABIES www.stringbabies.com

LAngUAgE BEE SPAnISH - beespanish1@gmail.com

DRAMA ACTIng OUT UK - 07704 714 607 www.actingoutuk.com THE ACTIng SCEnE - 07542 191 495 www.theactingscene.co.uk THE DRAMA STUDIO - 0131-453-3284 www.thedramastudio.com HELEn O’gRADY DRAMA ACADEMY - 0131 667 0939 midscot@helenogrady.co.uk LIvE DRAMA - 07944 757083 or rebecca.kilbey@gmail.com MOnKEY DRAMA - 07736298013 www.monkeydrama.co.uk PYJAMA DRAMA - 0131 516 3099 louisek@pyjamadrama.com STAgECOACH - 0131 610 0636 www.stagecoach.co.uk/edinburgh SPARKLE ARTS - www.sparklearts.co.uk

ARTY ARTROOM 32 - 07931 513 815 www.artroom32.co.uk DOODLES - 0131 229 1399

SCHOOL SUPPORT BRIgHT BRAIn - 07512311317 www.brightbrain-scotland.co.uk ExPLORE - Blackhall 0131 332 3300, Murrayfield 0131 337 7401 www.explorelearning.co.uk KB InSIgHTS - 07837930714 www.Kb-Insights.co.uk KIDS nLP - www.kidsnlpscotland.co.uk 07837930714 KIP MCgRATH - 01316106110 www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/edinburgh-central www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/edinburgh-marchmont STEP AHEAD - 07967024726 www.stepaheadtuition.com

KIDS Jazz • Ballet • Tap Breaking • Commercial

ADULT Ballet • Tap • Fitness

COMING SOON Musical Madness!

Thursdays at StudioD sing and act.

Ages 5-7 and 8+ Limited places, book now

nicky@dndance.co.uk er atnhcee' www.studiodedinburgh.co.uk v o c s i d' y of d The Basement, 4 Hutchison Terrace jo 07545 551271

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after sChool aCtivities ACTIvE BODIES 3v2 SOCCER ACADEMY

LITTLE nInJAS

The 3v2 Soccer Academy are an Edinburgh based independent coaching company that offers a football based year round coaching programme for both children and adults.

As well as our weekly classes at various venues around Edinburgh we also offer the opportunity to take part in and experience one of many holiday football camps as well as our fantastic birthday party service.

Other specialist services include individual, group, team, playgroup, nursery and school curriculum coaching.

Each class is tailored to meet the imagination of the group where on a weekly basis you will take part in many fun games, child related topics and go on weekly class adventures.

Contact us today to book your free trial!

For full further details go to www.3v2socceracademy.co.uk or call Roddy Maughan 07872448788 Murdo Steven 07969434840

The Little Ninjas programme is fantastic way for young children to get the best from Martial Arts training. Each week they cover a particular skill, for example balance, and develop this as well as martial arts techniques. After 8-10 weeks they sit a test and are awarded their belt. As they progress the material becomes more challenging and their knowledge of martial arts increases. The programme is from the U.S. and game based so the children are constantly learning in a fun way. There are classes running throughout the week and a Saturday morning. You can start at any point in time. Full time coaches, fully insured and CRB checked.

For more info visit www.little-ninjas.co.uk or call 0800 028 9320 and speak to Marcus.

EDInBURgH LEISURE Keep your eyes on the website for details of free under 5‘s open days in the first week of September. There’s guaranteed fun plus the chance to try out under 5’s classes spanning Gymnastics, Mini Kickers football, Tots Tennis, swimming and more.

Gym and Baby Nippers are a huge hit for little ones and their parents alike, and are fantastic for developing children’s motor skills, balance and agility.

Coaching dedicated to helping children from age 3 develop the skills and confidence to enjoy the nation’s favourite games. And every child loves climbing, so why not get them climbing our walls instead of yours at EICA: Ratho from the age of 4. Swimming is fun, a great workout and a potentially life-saving skill. With adult and baby swim classes, and preschool coaching, children can get water confident at Edinburgh Leisure from as young as four months old.

And of course, as little ones grow into bigger ones there’s a huge range of sports and activities on offer. www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/courses/junior

gYMInI - A FOUnDATIOn FOR SPORT

LITTLE FOxES KICKBOxIng

GYMINI coaches are qualified British Gymnastic coaches who are involved in a variety of other sports as well as gymnastics.

Our unique foundation programme based on activity and fun will stimulate our GYMINI’S to develop the major motor skills such as rolling, running, balancing, jumping, swinging and climbing. Using scaled down gymnastic equipment our GYMINI’S progress into recreational gymnasts. Our structured programme including strength and flexibility allows our GYMINI’S to continue to use their skills to enhance their experience in all sports. GYMINI is a private enterprise unique to Edinburgh and not a franchise. For further information check out our website www.gymini.co.uk or contact Fiona or Sheila 0131 334 3657

Wednesdays 4:00-5:00 (3rd Sep - 10th Dec) Kids kickboxing for beginners. Fun, action packed and educational classes that help children to stay fit, active, and learn self defence in a friendly and safe environment.

Classes focus on key martial arts skills. Children develop strength, balance, and flexibility while increasing selfconfidence and personal discipline. There is an established belt system for long-term achievement. The instructor, Paul Reilly, is highly experienced and qualified as well as being fully trained, certificated and insured.

Paul will accept children aged 5 to 11.

Edinburgh Montessori Arts School, EH16 6AE 0131 446 0777 http://www.emaschool.co.uk

TATTY BUMPKIn AnD BABYBUMPKIn

TUMBLE TOTS

Bend, stretch, run, jump, wriggle and giggle!

Fun, active yoga-inspired sessions with stories and music for 0 - 7 year olds. Yoga aspects include postures encouraging confidence, balance and co-ordination - important foundations for activities like dance, tennis, football - also relaxation.

Baby sessions include simple baby yoga movements, gentle stretches for Mum, rhymes and activities to gently stimulate and then relax baby.

“It's the highlight of our week.” Mother of Sophie, 14.5 months old.

“We will always have happy memories of our bendy giggly clever and strong Friday mornings!” Mum of 4 1/2 year old Join us at Morningside United Church or look out for us in your nursery, school or after-school club. edinburghwest@tattybumpkin.com www.tattybumpkin.com/edinburghwest www.facebook.com/tattybumpkinedinburghwest M: 07411 571001 or T: 0845 6804102

Tumble Tots is the leading National Active Play Programme for children from six months to seven years.

It provides a challenging environment for children of different ages and stages of development. With brightly coloured equipment and trained staff the children practice to climb, to balance, complete forward rolls, improve co-ordination, problem solving, and social skills, increase their self-confidence and so much more and all whilst having fun. We do birthday parties too, and Easter and Summer Play Schemes visit our website for more details – www.tumbletots.com/Edinburgh

gYMBOBS New for August a Gymbobs class is planned for a Friday afternoon for Primary 1 and 2’s and a new venue in Joppa at St Philip’s Church on a Tuesday morning. Classes in Morningside, Fairmilehead, Haddington, Marchmont and a new venue for August Joppa please Call Jo on 01875 819966 or email joletelier.lobos@virgin.net

SWIMMIng nATURE

After a nice relaxing holiday, it’s time to get active again! Swimming Nature lessons are available in our Edinburgh based swimming pools.

We offer one-to-one and two-to-one classes which your child can join any week of the year, once they are 3 years of age or above.

Our trained and qualified teachers will help your child build confidence, improve technique and learn to swim the four strokes with perfection.

Enrol your child now and give them the life-changing skill of being a confident and graceful swimmer. To book for the Autumn Term please call us on 08445 04506 or email us at info@swimmingnature.com. For further information please visit our website: swimmingnature.com

Martial Arts Fun & Lifeskills for 4-9s and Kickboxing 10-15s.

First Class Free Monday - Thursday 4.15 - 5pm Saturday 9.15 - 10.00am Kids Kickboxing Monday & Wednesday 5 - 5.45pm

For more info visit www.little-ninjas.co.uk Combat Ready Gym, 72 Newhaven Road, Edinburgh, EH6 5QG

Tel : 0800 028 9320

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Clubs Classes & after sChool aCtivities St Mary’s Music School Come to our Open Day on Saturday 4 October to find out about music for children in Edinburgh Coates Hall, 25 Grosvenor Crescent, Edinburgh EH12 5EL Telephone 0131 538 7766

ARTY ARTROOM32 Great art & craft classes and workshops for children and adults! Term time classes for pre-school and after school children, weekend & holiday workshops and fun arty parties held in the studio. You can also buy art supplies, original art and lovely handmade gifts and jewellery from the front shop. www.artroom32.co.uk

CHILDREn'S HALF-TERM WORKSHOPS AT DOODLES Tues 14th, Wed 15th and Thurs 16th 10.30 - 12pm, £12.50 per class.( includes juice and a healthy midmorning snack). We will be clay modeling each day with a range of Halloween and Autumn inspired projects.

29 Marchmont Crescent, Edinburgh 0131 229 1399

DAnCE AngELA WATSOn SCHOOL OF DAnCE

s Course r e b o t Oc

Bespoke for 5 - 15 yearDrama Courses olds T: 07542 191 495 info@theactingscene.co.uk

www.theactingscene.co.uk

Now in it's 12th year the Angela Watson School of Dance is a well established school with a reputation for high standards and impeccable results.

We offer fun, creative classes in nursery ballet as well as jazz, tap and RAD Ballet for aged 3 years to adult. Pupils have the opportunity to take RAD ballet exams, in house tap and modern medal tests, participate in biannual shows at the Churchill Theatre as well as a fantastic chance to perform on the main stage and parade in Disneyland Paris. We pride ourselves on having well qualified teachers who provide the pupils with the best possible training. Pupils have successfully auditioned for Scottish Ballet Junior Associates, Birmingham Royal Ballet, Dance School of Scotland and many more.

Classes are held in Colinton, Fairmilehead and Firrhill High School dance studio.

0131 661 9590 www.angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk

CEILIDHKIDS Enjoy Scottish dancing with CeilidhKids! Traditionally at a Scottish Ceilidh, well-loved dances are shared between the generations. At CeilidhKids classes and events, simple (often simplified) Scottish dances are explained and demonstrated, before everyone gets to have a go. Some dances will be old and traditional, others have been specially adapted for wee people to enjoy with Mum, Dad, childminder or grandparents.

For seven years now CeilidhKids has been getting families dancing in Edinburgh and the Lothians. Thousands of children and families have enjoyed the opportunity to dance together - maybe at a preschool class, at nursery, at school, or at a festival or party. So why not join us as we clap, march, skip, jump and twirl to the music? Bring comfy shoes and something to drink – we’ll see you there! www.ceilidhkids.com

DAnCE BASE Dance Base autumn term starts up again on September 5 after the summer break. New classes for children this autumn include Aerial and Parkour for 8-10 and 11-16 year olds, programmed in part due to the popularity of the equivalent adult classes. Also on the Halloween menu is Thriller Night workshop (Sunday 12 October) for ages 10 16, where they’ll get to star in their own version of the famous music video, including full make up, costume and professional camera crew!

Equally fun, the old favourite Street & Hip Hop is back, as is Creative Dance and Dance Academy (for all ages up to P7, where they get a taste of many different styles of dance.

For pre-schoolers, parents attend with children, so you get a chance to dance as a family. Get together – it’s always more fun that way! 0131 225 5525 dancebase.co.uk

DAnCE FOR ALL

Helps children to move forward, overcome anxieties, habitsand behaviours holding them back.

Working with parents to help improve communication at many levels with their children.

Masterful Parenting course - book now!

Mind Matters - preparing for exams Individual sessions throughout the year Call Karen 07837930714 www.kidsnlpscotland.co.uk

Fun, funky and educational arts & crafts classes for children.

Painting, drawing, sculpture, model making and much more!

Arty parties and holiday workshops also available 0131 553 6798 / 07931 513 815 www.artroom32.co.uk

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Established in 1985, Dance For All is a hub of expertise dedicated to nurturing pupils aged 2½ - 18yrs to enjoy and excel in the finest dance genres, including: RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap, SDS Flamenco, Jazz and Contemporary. Principal, Tracy Hawkes, leads an inspirational faculty of staff in delivering professional dance + teacher training (the longest running course of its kind in Scotland) and over 70 weekly child, teen & adult classes for beginners - advanced, such as their popular Drop-In Ballet.

Did you know that dance can improve our cognitive, physical and emotional health, throughout our lives?

Browse their testimonials, timetables, blog, photo galleries & much more on www.danceforall.co.uk or call 0131 226 5533 to register today.

DISCO DUCK

DYnAM-nIC DAnCE

Disco Duck, the ultimate pre-school dance experience is now in Edinburgh.

Designed to increase self-esteem, co-ordination, concentration, balance and poise but most of all with its catchy music it has a real sense of fun.

The half an hour non-stop sessions are designed for 18 months to 4 years old.

You can join your first class with our very special furry friend for just £2.

Our autumn term starts on 13th/14th August with the following new timetable of classes Wednesdays – 9.45am Out of the Blue, Dalmeny Street (Starts 20th August) 11.30am Wardie Parish Church, Trinity 1.45pm Toots Play Café, Gilmerton Road (Class includes free play afterwards) Thursdays - 9.45am St. Thomas’s Church, Corstorphine 11.30am Rosebery Hall, South Queensferry 1.45pm Tumbles, Portobello To find out more visit www.facebook.com/discoduckedinburgh or email discoduckedinburgh@btinternet.com

Come along to our brand new studios at Chesser with great access, sprung dance floors and new classes for all ages! We offer dance classes for children from the age of 18 months, covering Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern, Breaking, Street and Commercial.

Have a trial for our very own Crew and be amongst the best!

Coming Thursdays in October, Musical Madness! A fun singing and acting class for children and 5+. Covering all the favourites, Wicked, Hairspray and Matilda to mention a few! Book your place now.

We also offer dance and fitness class for adults, wether you are a complete beginner or have danced and exercised for years, we have something for everyone!

Check out all our classes at www.studiodedinburgh.co.uk 07545551271

Clubs Classes & after sChool aCtivities EDInBURgH DAnCE ACADEMY After ten years of dancing, acting and teaching overseas, RAD Examiner Julie Mitchell created Edinburgh Dance Academy. Alongside classes in ballet, modern, jazz, tap and hip hop, EDA also has its own Edinburgh Dance Company. In 2004 Jenni Inglis, a former pupil, joined EDA and, as Assistant Artistic Director, choreographs The Company and Performance Groups with great success. Alongside weekly classes EDA has a number of workshops in music, drama various other dance styles as well as our extremely popular Summer School. We are delighted to say that this will be our 14th year providing the juvenile and student dancers for the Pantomime at the Kings Theatre.

All pupils over the age of 5 are invited to audition for this.

The Academy, voted “Best Dance School in Edinburgh”, has studios throughout Edinburgh and Lothians. Classes for age 2 and half yrs up. 0131 337 3402 www.edinburghdanceacademy.co.uk

STEP IT UP DAnCE Step It Up Dance have been busy developing their classes for tots to teens for the new academic year. All classes are rooted in the Curriculum for Excellence providing a unique creative education as well as full on fun!

Under 5's classes now include a personalised progress charts for every child, making creative learning even more fun and rewarding! Dancers in their Family Hip Hop (age 18m-5yrs) and Hip Hop Tots classes will now be able to see just how much progress they have achieved during every class and will take pride in sharing this at home too.

Primary-aged dancers can also enjoy full on fun at their Hip Hop and Breakdance Academy.

These classes each follow a structured syllabus, allowing children to progress through levels and be rewarded as they do so. With the emphasis firmly on fun, all exams are optional. www.stepitupdance.co.uk

WATERFROnT DAnCE Waterfront Dance studio- Dancing fun for everyone at our North Edinburgh Dance studio. Tutu Tots for tiny dancers from the age of 2 with participation from Mum, Twinkles ballet from 3yrs. Little Stars enjoy ballet, Tap or Jazzy dance , Boyz Danz for P1-P3.

Ballet, Tap and Funky Move It! at all levels with exams offered in RAD ballet and ISTD modern.

All instructors hold professional dance qualifications, are trained, insured and Disclosed.

Whether for fitness and fun or more serious study we aim to help your child achieve through enjoyment in safe, progressive classes.

Performance and further training opportunities available .

All classes held in our West Shore Road Dance Studio, Junior classes also at Cramond Kirk. Waterfrontdancestudio.co.uk 07772504958

DRAMA ACTIng OUT Acting Out Drama School is an established performing arts training centre based in Edinburgh. We offer a variety of Performing Art Classes and Courses including Drama, Acting, Musical Theatre, Singing, Dancing and Public Speaking to children, teenagers & adults. All our teachers are approved by the PVG Scheme. They are highly trained, highly experienced and most are professional performers themselves. Quite simply, we are passionate about teaching and performing! As well as putting on regular performances, we offer all our students the chance to gain qualifications through certified exams by the United Kingdom Alliance in Dance and Drama. We are also registered educational providers with the NUS & Education Scotland (CPD). Additionally, we provide casting opportunities for all our students. We have lots of new classes and terms starting back so please get in touch and say hello! www.actingoutuk.com/hello@actingoutuk.com/ 07704714 607

THE ACTIng SCEnE Make the October holidays even more fun with a Performance Experience from The Acting Scene. A series of fun and exciting workshops for 5-15 year olds exploring a range of theatre skills. Whether your child is an experienced performer or new to drama, we aim to facilitate the creative ideas of every child irrespective of ability. Places are limited and sell quickly.

Book early to avoid disappointment. No previous drama experience required. Run by industry professionals who have worked in the West-End, Broadway and for the BBC & ITV. Ages 5-7, 8-10, 11-15yrs Location: Venues through out Edinburgh Dates: Monday 13th- Friday 17th October & Monday 20th October – Friday 24th Times: Mornings 9.30-12.30, Full-day 9.30-4.30 For more information and to book email: info@theactingscene.co.uk www.theactingscene.co.uk www.facebook.com/TheActingScene T: 07542 191 495

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Clubs Classes & after sChool aCtivities THE DRAMA STUDIO If you are looking for an activity for young people that stimulates the imagination, boosts selfconfidence, helps making new friends and is great fun, then creative Drama may well be it !

Our after school classes for age 4-17 are in both independent venues and school-based clubs. We offer you high quality drama with performance in most venues and exciting Teenage Theatre and Film Projects.We have a Casting Agency for Film, TV and Radio opportunities and also very popular Children's Drama Parties. Visit our website for full details. www.thedramastudio.com or call 0131-453-3284 and we will be delighted to talk to you.

HELEn O’gRADY DRAMA ACADEMY Claire and Glyn, Joint Principals, have been successful in delivering confidence building drama classes for over 11 years. Claire says: "I feel that Helen O'Grady's success is down to its fantastic curriculum, materials and specialized teaching techniques, which local schools recognise and recommend. We appeal to children at all levels of confidence and needs, from the super confident to the super shy! In terms 1 and 2 of the year the curriculum includes voice work, movement, creative improvised drama and script work. In term 3 all classes in the Academy rehearse a scripted play which they perform at the theatre. Our classes are all inclusive; we motive our students through ensemble work and teamwork to develop their confidence. Our programme will also assist with public speaking, performance skills and is lots of fun.”

To book a FREE TRIAL call 0131 667 0939 and quote ‘Families’ or email midscot@helenogrady.co.uk

LIvE DRAMA

Edinburgh/Lothians 07967 024726

HQ Fife 01383 62 45 99

Saturday Classes at Southside Community Centre EH8 9ER These classes are for all those with an interest in drama and the performing arts. Each term covers different areas of work - improvisation, movement and voice, character development, scene devising etc. - and ends with a presentation to parents and friends to share work that has been created throughout the term. The emphasis is firmly on having fun, building confidence levels and providing a good grounding in all aspects of drama and the performing arts. For those who are interested, there are then opportunities to go on and join one of the three youth theatres associated with the Live Drama classes.

There are three saturday drama classes for different age groups. The sessions are structured in 10 week terms and cost £50 p/term.

10.15 - 11.45am: 7 - 10 years 11.45 - 1.15pm: 11 - 13 years 1.15 - 2.45pm: 14 - 18 years Further details / booking forms from 07944 757083 or rebecca.kilbey@gmail.com

MOnKEY DRAMA Monkey Drama Parent/Child classes cater for children 2-5 years! Classes run every Monday in Juniper Green Village Hall at either 2.15pm or 3.30pm and last for 45 minutes.

Children get a certificate every week to show what they have learned, imagined and explored.

The classes are imaginative, fun, themed and no week is the same!

FREE TRIAL class for everyone! Book a block of 5 classes for £27.50 or 10 for £50.

Discounts are available for siblings.

So if you want to be a Pirate, a Chef, a Frog, a Clown, an Alien, a Cowboy…well, the list is endless and you can be all of them at Monkey Drama!

Classes will be running in more Edinburgh venues later in the year. Please get in touch for more info. Booking is essential as places are limited. Visit www.monkeydrama.co.uk, email alana@monkeydrama.co.uk or call 07736298013.

PYJAMA DRAMA The school holidays may be over, but there is always fun to be had at Pyjama Drama!

Sing, dance, pretend, play: where will our imagination take us today?

Through music, movement, games and pretending – children will use their imagination to explore different worlds and themes in each session.

Entering an imaginary world helps even the shyest child to come out of their shell. We also know that it helps with the development of language skills, teaches children how to work together as a team and develops their creative problem-solving, a hugely important life skill.

Hope you can come along and join the fun. Classes are currently available for children aged 2 – 5 years. To book your three week trial, or for more information on classes in Edinburgh, please contact Louise on 0131 516 3099, or email: louisek@pyjamadrama.com

SPARKLE ARTS The Sparkle Arts creative approach to learning helps children, aged 1-12 years, develop through a fun mix of music, drama, movement & dance. Shy children are encouraged to grow, and outgoing children are given an outlet for their energy in an environment that builds confidence, self-esteem and social skills. We use fun props such as colourful puppets, photographs and musical instruments to get everyone involved and give young imaginations the opportunity to flourish.

Each year we bring 40 fascinating educational topics to life. These topics are taught over 4x10week terms, and facilitate the development of knowledge in a fun, playful, interactive way. Classes meet the 4 main aims of the curriculum for excellence, and are taught by professionally trained, highly experienced teachers.

Sparkle Arts classes are available for children attending school, nurseries, playgroups & toddler groups. We host classes for children accompanied by parents, or carers, in venues across Edinburgh & East Lothian. www.sparklearts.co.uk

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Clubs Classes & after sChool aCtivities STAgECOACH THEATRE ARTS

Stagecoach Theatre Arts provides high quality teaching in drama, dance and singing for 4-18 years and encourages life skill development that supports the learning that the children are doing in school. Children are split into age appropriate classes and do three, one-hour classes (90 minutes for 4-6 years) per week. Working alongside PVG cleared industry professionals, Stagecoach promotes creative risk taking and nurtures transferrable skills to produce creative thinkers.

For more information about Stagecoach Theatre Arts Edinburgh, please visit our website: www.stagecoach.co.uk/edinburgh or call our Principal on 0131 610 0636.

Classes are now booking for our Autumn Term and there is limited availability.

Also see page 7 for more infomation on how Stagecoach can benefit your child.

MUSIC CUSTOM MUSIC 4 U Learn to play the guitar the right way Guitar Lessons in Edinburgh with Stewart Maclennan, BMus, ALCM (TD) “I am Disclosure Scotland certified and teach guitar classes for both Edinburgh and East Lothian Council Community Adult Education. I have many years of experience teaching every age, level, and ability. I teach most styles of music on the electric, acoustic steel, and the classical guitar. Lessons take place in my home in Colinton.”

Access is easy via a 44 Lothian bus from the centre of town or if you have a car there is plenty of free parking. Why not book a lesson today? Suitable for ages. Lessons available during the school holidays. For ages 8+.

Call 0131 441 3262 Email stewart@custommusic4u.com

Linlithgow Corstorphine Edinburgh South Broxburn Leith Musselburgh Bonnyrigg Livingston Tel: 0131 667 0939 web www.helenogrady.co.uk email midscot@helenogrady.co.uk Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HelenOGradyMidScotland

EDInBURgH YOUng MUSICIAnS.

Over 300 pupils find inspiration at Edinburgh Young Musicians each Saturday morning.

Musical Play classes (final pre-school year and P1) are open to children with no musical experience, as are P2 Musical Workshop classes and P3 Beginners' Musical Foundations classes, designed to prepare children to learn an instrument or sing in a choir. String orchestras, choirs, chamber music, and musicianship classes are for children with suitable musical experience. All teaching is done in groups, with the aim of nurturing and developing each child's innate musicianship. www.e-y-m.org.uk. 0131-226-3392.

JACK AnD JILL MUSIC FUn Jack and Jill Music Fun for Tots is a local, independent business which has been running for nearly 20 years. The classes are run by a qualified music teacher who passionately believes in the positive value of live musical experience from an early age. The classes aim to give your child opportunities to participate in a varied, flexible and enjoyable programme of themed musical activities including listening to live music, moving and dancing, singing new and familiar songs and handling a wide range of musical instruments.

Parents say: ‘This has been quite simply the best pre-school activity my daughter and I have been to. I cannot recommend these music classes highly enough and really feel that it has set my daughter up to enjoy music throughout her life’.

Contact Mary on 07809 154415 www.jackandjill-music.co.uk info@jackandjill-music.co.uk

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Clubs Classes & after sChool aCtivities LEARN TO PLAY GUITAR THE RIGHT WAY 0131 441 3262 GUITAR LESSONS

Stewart Maclennan BMus, ALCM (TD) www.custommusic4u.com

JO JIngLES Jo Jingles has been captivating babies and children in Edinburgh since 2002 and we are looking forward to the new term. Our baby classes for little ones from 3 months continue to be very popular with some free classes available in all areas for babies up to 6 months. We offer age specific classes up to age 5 and use a mixture of familiar songs and some great new ones to maximise each child’s learning experience. We use instruments, parachutes, pom poms, puppets and much more and children play and dance their way through class, finding their voice and a rhythm to move to. Parents say their children love our classes and they enjoy them too! Sibling discounts are available and there is no charge for younger siblings until the term after their first birthday. Jo Jingles classes offer a quality experience and are great value for money.

Parties also available. www.jojingles.com East Edinburgh - Susan 0131 620 3282, West Edinburgh - Joanne 0131 443 4196 or East Lothian - Leigh 01875 616607

KInDERMUSIK WITH ELLIE

MInI MUSIC MAKERS

Where Music and Learning Play!

Listen and move. Play and grow. This is Kindermusik, the most trusted music and movement program for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and young children. Through its high quality materials and age appropriate programmes, Kindermusik provides the foundation for musical learning where children and their families engage in an exciting learningprocess.

Each child's development and learning are encouraged in a safe and nurturing environment. Activities include, music learning, instrument exploration, parent-child time, creative movement, storytime, vocal development and focused listening.

In 2014, Ellie has been awarded a Kindermusik Maestro Educator status for her services in teaching the Kindermusik programme.

Sing & Play (4-15 months), Wiggle & Grow (15 months-3 yrs), Laugh & Learn (3-4 years): Move & Groove (4-5.5 years), Family Class (babies – 4 yrs) Venues: Get Down Dog Yoga Studio and St James Goldenacre Church Visit: www.kindermusikwithellie.co.uk Email: Kindermusik_with_Ellie@hotmail.com Call: 079 62678561

Mini Music Makers, part of the National Youth Choir of Scotland, gives parents and children the opportunity to make and enjoy music together through singing, games, rhythm and rhymes in a fun and friendly setting together with other parents.

Mini Music Makers in Leith will kick start the new term on 22nd August in South Leith Parish Church for children aged 0–4 years.

The new term in Dalkeith will begin on 25th August, for children aged 0–3 years, taking place at Newbattle Church.

These weekly 40-minute classes cost just £30 for the 6-week block, and parents, babies and toddlers are invited to join in the fun.

Find out more at www.nycos.co.uk/minimusic-makers. To book your place, contact Claire on 0141 287 2943 or claire.mcbride@nycos.co.uk.

MOnKEY MUSIC Monkey Music will be opening new classes in Stockbridge on a Tuesday afternoon and Cramond on a Thursday morning for little Monkeys of all ages. Monkey Music classes are a wonderful way to watch your child’s musical interest and ability flourish with our award-winning, age specific curricula. There are loads of opportunities for the children to experiment with percussion instruments and to have fun singing original songs as well as popular nursery rhymes, musical games and exciting movement ideas. A complimentary first class is offered to all children and there is a 20% sibling discount.

To find out more about our classes and to book your complimentary class please contact Rachel Huggins at comelybank.corstorphine@monkeymusic.co.uk or Tel: 0131 260 9667 for classes in the Stockbridge, Comely Bank, Murrayfield and Cramond areas.

MOnKEY MUSIC is delighted to announce its partnership with Tigerlilys Jungle Themed Children’s play centre in the heart of Morningside.

Where better to experience Monkey Music than deep in the heart of the Jungle! With all class attendees receiving 30 minutes complimentary soft play in Bush Babies or Tiki Tots play rooms as part of their class price. Morning and Afternoon classes will be held weekly in Tigerlilys so why not come along and experience the Magic of Monkey Music and Tigerlilys at our Free open day on Wednesday 27th August.

Sessions for little monkeys from 3mths to 4 years will be running all day from 10am.

Places must be booked in advance for your little monkeys by calling Lisa on 0131 441 4581 or emailing morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk

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MOST EnTERTAInIng

MUSIC BUgS

Most Entertaining specialises in finding you the perfect piano, violin or guitar teacher who best suit your level, aspiration and interests, from complete beginners to masterclass level.

In addition to our 1-2-1 music lessons, we provide weekly after-school music clubs in primary schools across Edinburgh and offer a grade 5 theory course with guaranteed pass or your money back.

Most Entertaining develops bespoke workshops for your school, office party or group of friends as well as providing regular opportunities for our students to perform throughout the year.

All our tutors are qualified to degree level or equivalent, have a passion for teaching and have had a recent PVG Disclosure Check. Our aim is to ensure lessons are fun and enjoyable.

Call our Summerhall office 0131 477 7821 or visit www.mostentertaining.com

Music Bugs West Edinburgh classes provide lots of fun activities and props to engage children and keep them entertained. Expect traditional nursery rhymes, silly songs, action songs, knee bouncers and finger play rhymes as well as puppets, bubbles, pom poms, parachutes, teddies, chiffon scarves, rhythm sticks and lots of lovely tactile percussion instruments.

Flexible age groups allow parents to choose a class most suited to their child’s individual needs with a choice of Baby Bugs (0-12 months), Mini Bugs (6 – 24 months) and Family Bugs (newborn to 4 years). Classes run for 40 minutes and are currently running in North Merchiston and Corstorphine with new classes starting in Davidson’s Mains.

Contact Shelley Marshall on 0844 822 1159 or email shelley@musicbugs.co.uk to prebook a free taster session. Alternatively, visit Shelley’s webpage at www.musicbugs.co.uk/edinburgh-west/

Clubs Classes & after sChool aCtivities PORTOBELLO MUSIC SCHOOL Portobello Music School is delighted to announce the 2nd year of their new syllabus being offered in partnership with the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM).

Music Medals is a syllabus designed to provide graded assessments to children learning instruments in groups so is ideally suited to primary-aged children as it provides progressive steps from Primary 3 through to Primary 7. There are five progressive levels which take children from beginner to around Grade 4 level. We are also excited to introduce a new instrument for P3+4 children interested in studying clarinet or saxophone. The Clarinéo offers an excellent introduction for younger players as it requires the same playing technique but is lighter, ideal for smaller fingers and is much more affordable than entry-level clarinets and saxophones. For further information and/or to enrol for classes starting this term, please visit www.porotbellomusicschool.com or tel: 0131 669 1120

RHYTHM CLUB

ST MARY’S MUSIC SCHOOL

Tuesdays 3:45-4:45 (2nd Sep - 9th Dec) An introduction to percussion and playing together in an ensemble.

Try instruments from around the world and learn ensemble skills such as how to play together and how to follow a conductor. Taught by Linsey Anderson an accomplished percussionist, children will develop their playing skills and general music skills alongside their classmates in a supportive environment, with the option of giving a small performance of what they have been working on. This club is suitable for 5-8 year olds. www.emaschool.co.uk

St Mary’s Music School’s long established popular Saturday Morning Music Classes for children aged four to 11 start up again on 13 September. They take place during term time in Coates Hall, 25 Grosvenor Crescent, in Edinburgh’s West End, taught by staff of the specialist music school. Children have fun as they develop their skills. Come along on a Saturday morning, phone 0131 538 7766 for further information or visit the Outreach section of the school’s website – www.st-marys-music-school.co.uk – for details of instrumental lessons, singing, theory, preschool and early years Kodaly and Dalcroze Eurhythmics classes and for an application form.

STRIngBABIES Stringbabies is a fun and gentle approach to learning a stringed instrument specifically designed with young children in mind. Aimed primarily at children between 3 and 6 years of age, it has also been used for older children and even adults. Stringbabies was created by cellist Kay Tucker as a means of teaching very young children how to play a stringed instrument and learn how to read music. Starting with four toys, one for each string on the instrument, it quickly moves to shapes which even the youngest child can use to make simple pieces which are then played back, developing composition and sight reading skills. Lessons typically involve lots of singing and games which are fun for the child and also develop their technique. For more information about Stringbabies, look at the website www.stringbabies.com

LAngUAgE BEESPAnISH BeeSpanish is an Early stimulation programme whose mission statement is to teach Spanish to children under six as they play and sing.

One recurring question is, why learn a foreign language at activities. Music and sound form a core part of our sessions such an early age? prepared by professionals with a native Spanish speaking Research carried out both in the UK and the USA has shown tutor and a qualified educational psychologist. that the maximum absorbing capacity of a new language We currently offer Sessions in two locations in occurs up to the age of seven.

Edinburgh - Stockbridge and Morningside. Contact BeeSpanish provides a unique space where children can beespanish1@gmail.com learn Spanish.Through movement, music and interactive Los esperamos!

Edinburgh

SCHOOL SUPPORT ExPLORE LEARnIng

STEP AHEAD

Explore Learning provide extra tuition in English and maths to children aged five to 14. They have two centres in Edinburgh - Sainsbury’s, 185 Craigleith Road, Blackhall and Sainsbury’s, 39 Westfield Road, Murrayfield. www.explorelearning.co.uk

STEP AHEAD Tutoring and Educational Services, the leading teacher organisation offers one-to-one tuition in the homes of clients or tutors throughout East and Central Scotland.

The power of individual tuition is being felt by countless children and is reflected in the outstanding results achieved in national examinations, including Highers and Advanced Highers, as well as at all younger stages.

STEP AHEAD also helps children to start their new school with confidence, ensuring that they will enjoy equal academic attainment as their new school friends.

STEP AHEAD has expertise in, and an outstanding record for, helping children gain places in independent schools, having recently celebrated their 300th successful candidate in to the private sector.

A highly personal and caring service is provided - by selected tutors - starting with detailed assessment, then regular and consistent tutoring, leading to considerable progress, as reflected in hundreds of testimonials.

For his services to young people over nearly five decades, Step Ahead’s Director, George Hawkins, was selected to be a Commonwealth Games Queen’s Relay Batonbearer this summer.

For further information : www.stepaheadtuition.com Tel : 07967024726 / 01383 624599

KIP MCgRATH The Kip McGrath Centre in Inverleith and the new centre in Marchmont offers expert tuition in maths and English for all ages (4 to adult). For our younger students we prepare with early reading, writing and maths ensuring your child has a head start to school. Our students are being recognised for outstanding achievement which is being noticed by schools and parents. This year we achieved 100% success for student entry to private school.

‘After attending Kip McGrath in Inverleith my daughter was offered places at all three Edinburgh private Edinburgh secondary schools including being awarded an academic scholarship. Importantly, she enjoys going and even after being offered her place in secondary school in January wanted to keep going to Kip McGrath!’ Niamh For a FREE assessment and to find out more contact centre Director Indleeb on 01316106110.

Piano Lessons Fun, enthusiastic and experienced teachers, who can travel to you.

Call our Summerhall office 0131 477 7821 and visit www.mostentertaining.com

The Springboard to confidence for your child Britain’s leading National Active Physical Play Programme for children from 6 months to 7 yrs

pa We rti d es o to o!

Morningside, Joppa, Fairmilehead, Haddington and Marchmont contact Jo – 01875 819966

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Kb-Insights: Helping Children To Succeed Kb-Insights offer a range of services aimed at enhancing learning and potential to support children in overcoming barriers to learning.

Reading and writing problems, dyslexia, dyspraxia, poor listening and concentration skills, speech and language delay, AD(H)D, poor fine motor skills, low self esteem, auditory processing difficulties, poor social skills.

More information about the various interventions available at www.kb-insights.co.uk Email: karen@kb-insights.co.uk or call 07837 930714

2

Parent Parent Favorite shop: Toys Galore in Stockbridge is the perfect example of what a toy shop should be.

Stocked floor to ceiling with all sorts of toys, and it has friendly, helpful staff too. Treehouse Childrenswear is good for busy parents. You can buy school shoes for one child, while the other gets a haircut. That’s the kind of multi-tasking that I need when I’ve left everything until the last minute the week before school goes back.

Favourite park: Barony Street Community Garden is a little gem. It was developed by local people. It’s a lovely little sun trap, and is very quiet and safe, tucked out of the way just off Broughton Street. My two also love Big Slide Park, which is what we call King George V Memorial Park, at the bottom of Scotland Street.

It has, as you might expect, a big slide but it’s built into the hillside so it’s perfectly safe for toddlers and older children alike.

Favourite children’s club/class: I like the ethos of Dance for All on St. Stephen St. Everyone is welcome, they’re not just interested in the future dancers, and they have a lovely Christmas party every year. Tatty Bumpkin was my all-time favourite when my two were toddlers. They are lovely, gentle classes with beautiful music and an imaginative interpretation of yoga for little ones.

Favourite day out: Our favourite day out changes, but there are some constants, usually picnics, beaches, and books. So, probably North Berwick, which has two beaches and lots of spots for picnics. We also like the National Museum of Scotland. It’s free, and there’s always a different exhibition on and lots of fun things for children to do. We especially like the little library next to the café. We could spend ages there.

Favourite child friendly restaurant: The Blue Bear Café in Canonmills. They have table tennis downstairs, and loads of games to play upstairs while you’re waiting. They’re also super friendly and have a good selection of food on either the children’s menu, or are willing to adapt things on the main menu.

Proudest eco-friendly moment: Using the reusable nappies that we bought for the first child on the second child as well. It was a great feeling to know that I wouldn’t be contributing to the huge amount of landfill that’s generated in the first few months of a baby’s life.

No parent should be without: A magnetic planner and to-do list that you can keep on the fridge. Children have so many activities, and equipment to cart about, that it’s almost impossible to keep track of them. A list on the fridge of things to do and remember is vital to the smooth running of our house.

Belfast Trip During the summer holidays we took a weekend trip over to Belfast taking advantage of a great promotion Stena Line were running.

The great thing about taking a ferry is that you can (obviously) also take your car with you, and if you can take your car with you, then you can take a car load of luggage and paraphanalia with you! One of my daughters likes to take the biggest, heaviest books we own on holiday - not great for flying or baggage restrictions but no problem when it’s all being chucked in the back of the car.

The Stena Line Cairnryan to Belfast service offers a direct link from Scotland to Northern Ireland and were lucky enough to have a beautiful day to drive over to the West Coast which got the trip off to a great start.

The entertainment onboard was way beyond our expectations - not only was there a cinema and play area there were also Xboxes and children’s entertainers – all free to enjoy. The two kids entertainers made sure all the wee ones were having a great time - face painting, colouring in and balloon modelling. The only downside for us was knowing that we had to wait for the showing of Frozen until the return trip!

The coffee shop had great coffee (with half price refills) and the shop had some amazing deals on (new moisturiser, thank you very much!)

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Lindsay is an Assurance Manager at the Royal Bank of Scotland.

She lives in Leith with her husband Andrew, and her daughters Josette (9) and Lorelei (7).

Saturday Drama Classes Confidence boosting • Fun • Affordable Southside Community Centre, EH8 9ER 10.15 - 11.45am (7 - 10’s) 11.45 - 1.15pm (11 - 13’s) 1.15 - 2.45pm (14 - 18’s)

Parenting pet hates: People who frown at children on buses when they don’t give up their seat. Why would you expect people without fully developed gross motor control to be the ones that stand, when perfectly able-bodied adults sit?

Parenting high points (what makes it all worthwhile): When they’re drifting off to sleep and you pop in to check on them, and they murmur that they love you. Also, seeing them have proper little conversations with each other about science, nature, and politics. My husband and I look at each other in wonder, remembering when they were just tiny little eating machines, and now they have their own fully-formed opinions.

Funniest comment (from child): Josie: Abracadabra, wickety sam, turn into a frog…Lori: Miaow.

Josie: Abracadabra, wickety sam, turn into a frog that miaows…Lori: Miaow...Josie: Yes! My spell worked!

Favourite family holiday spot: Dunnet Beach, near Thurso, right at the most Northerly point in Scotland. It’s a huge length of white sand, and has a shallow incline so you can wade out for what feels like miles. The beach is so quiet and in August, because the sea is so shallow, it’s quite warm to play in the water. We had pictures of kite-flying on the nearly-deserted beach last year on Facebook and kept on having people ask where we’d been on the Mediterranean!

Best children’s book: Swallows and Amazons. If there’s anything that will teach children to have a healthy sense of adventure and an independent spirit, it’s the escapades of the explorer Swallows and the piratical Amazons. For younger children, I like rhyming classics, like Each Peach Pear Plum, or a modern classic like The Gruffalo.

Best DVD: I’ve introduced my children to cartoons that my husband and I used to love like Dungeons and Dragons, Thundercats, and Transformers. If you’re going to be subjected to repeat plays of DVDs, then there’s worse things to watch than nostalgic favourites from your own childhood. So far, it has worked, although I’m not so keen on their recent obsession with The Smurfs.

Most played with toys: Playstation 3, or more specifically, the level creation mode on Little Big Planet. If allowed, my two will play for hours making their own little worlds and unleashing them on the unsuspecting gaming public through the level sharing options.

Biggest waste of money: Eating out too much. It’s just so easy to do when you can’t be bothered to cook and you have such great restaurants on your doorstep.

Why you like living where you do: I love the architecture of Edinburgh and the way the light spills over the castle.

It’s also amazing to be able to commute to work in 20 minutes, and drop the children off at school on the way. It creates a way of life and a work-life balance that’s unbeatable by other cities. Plus Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags make it feel like there’s wildness in the middle of the city. I also like the people of Edinburgh. I also like the political and community spirit that I discovered here when I was a student. I’m a member of No More Page 3, which can be found on No More Page 3 Edinburgh on Facebook and I feel really positive about way people of the city are campaigning for improvements to the way women are represented in the media.

live drama .co.uk

Further details / booking forms from 07944 757083 or rebecca.kilbey@gmail.com

As parents in Edinburgh you have so much fantastic local knowledge - if you would like to share your favorite bits of being a parent and living in our fantastic city then please email: editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

Once we arrived it was a short drive to our hotel, the 4 * Europa Hotel. The hotel is really central and you can walk to the city centre for shopping or out to various attractions. We had a big comfy room and breakfast was great - the kids love a buffet breakfast!

Belfast has great things for kids to do like a visit to the Ulster Museum, or the award winning science park, W5, Belfast Zoo, and the world’s largest Titanic experience Titanic Belfast, and much more.

We had a wonderful couple of days in Belfast and the journey itself was one of the things that made it. On the ferry we could chat, play and wander about. The restaurants on board offer various meal deals which were really good value for a family.

If we’d had longer we’d have definitely taken the opportunity to explore Northern Ireland a bit more. There’s so much to experience - beautiful beaches, The Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones filming locations to name a few.

You can find out more at www.discovernorthernireland.com

Travel Info: To make a booking, click on www.stenaline.co.uk, call Stena Line on 08447 70 70 70, or visit your local travel agent. Check out Stena Line’s Low Fares Finder for the best travel offers available.

Hotel Info: To book or for further information about the 4 star Europa Hotel call 028 9027 1066 or go to www.hastingshotels.com

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Out&A

All these events and more can be found on While every care has been taken to compile the OUT AND ABOUT section please remember that this magazine is printed weeks ahead of some of the events. PLEASE call and check events with the venue to avoid any disappointment before setting out. If you have any events you would like listed free in this section please email them to editor@familiesedinburgh.co.uk

AUGUST 19 - 26 August Racconta l'immagine/Imagining Stories The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR 0131 556 9579.

Based on Martina Peluso and Germano Ovani’s exhibition this morning session will encourage children to use their imagination to create a story using some basic Italian words.

An opportunity to learn and use a foreign language in an enjoyable approach to Italian.

In association with the Italian Cultural Institute. Buon Divertimento! Free (ticketed).

For ages 5+ 11am (45 mins) 22 August Feely Fridays The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 0300 123 6789.

Fridays during term time.Free, drop-in. Feely Fridays gives you the chance to explore our fascinating handling collections – from meteorites to mammals and Vikings to Victorians!

Check out information screens on the day for details. 13:30 – 16:30 23 August A glittering Highland Ball Lauriston Castle, 2 Cramond Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 6AD In this Year of Homecoming Scotland 2014, what better way to celebrate than with a fabulous tartan extravaganza! Make beautiful traditional Highland costumes for peg dolls with dresses, kilts and bagpipes, and you’ll be ready to take your partners for a reel or Strathspey. Some basic sewing skills required. With the Lauriston team. For ages 6+.Booking essential 0131 228 1155 (Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 10am5.30pm) 10.30am - 12.30pm or 1.30pm - 3.30pm / £5 per person 24 August Meet the Ancestors - WWI Scottish Tales of Adventure The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Ages 7+. Free, drop-in.

Hear all about about battle in the trenches, battleships and aircraft as best-selling author and historian Allan Burnett brings the First World War vividly to life with colourful costumes and amazing real-life stories. 2pm, 2.45pm & 3.30pm (30 mins) 27 August Magic Carpet The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF 0300 123 6789.

Suitable for ages 2-4 (+ their adult). Free – sign up on day at Info Desk, Entrance Hall, Level 0, as places are limited. The National Museum of Scotland’s magic carpet introduces little ones to some of the fantastic things in the museum through 20 minutes of stories, songs and activities. Join us as the carpet visits a different gallery or theme every week. Look out for special guests too! 10:30 and 11:30 (25 mins). Every Wednesday during termtime.

27 August Monkey Music Free Open Day Tigerlilys Play Cafe, Morningside Parish Church, 1a Nile Grove, Edinburgh, EH10 4RE

Sessions for little monkeys from 3mths to 4 years will be running all day from 10am.

Places must be booked in advance for your little monkeys by calling Lisa on 0131 441 4581 or emailing morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk 28 August Magic Carpet Minis The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Suitable for ages 0-2 (+ their adult). Sign up on the day in the Entrance Hall as places are limited. Join the National Museum of Scotland for magic carpet sessions for really little ones and their adults. Go along for songs, stories, rhymes and objects in the unique museum setting. Thursdays during term time. 10.30 and 11.30 (20mins) 28 August nappucciono Duncan Place Resource Centre, Duncan Place, Edinburgh, EH6 8HW www.changeworks.org.uk/events.php Your ‘one stop’ event to meet all your real nappy needs. Get free advice and information from parents with lots of experience of using real nappies, see different types of nappies and if you’d like, apply for a trial pack or lending kit. Parents will also be able to: Buy great value second hand nappies.Drop off second hand nappy donations. A proportion of sales generated from all items will create income for the Real Nappy Project to help to continue with the services provided. 10.00 - 11.30am

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About

our website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk August 30th Portobello Big Beach Busk from noon A mile of promenade, a mile of buskers. Simple. No booking a place no buying tickets. Come along and play or come down just to see the spectacle. This is the Beach Busk.

A free family day of music.

30 August Marvellous Mini Beasts National Trust for Scotland House of Binns, House of Binns, Linlithgow, EH49 7NA Join us at House of Binns and discover more about the outdoors.What weird and wonderful mini-beasts does the grassland hold, you will be amazed. Pre-booking essential. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 2 - 3.30pm 31 August Magical Birds Lauriston Castle, 2 Cramond Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 6AD Make magical exotic bird sculptures from modroc. Paint and decorate them in bright vibrant colours and patterns. With Margaret Findlay.Booking essential 0131 228 1155 (Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 10am-5.30pm) 11am - 3pm / £5 per person 31 August virgin Money Fireworks Concert Set against the magnificent backdrop of Edinburgh’s iconic Castle, the Virgin Money Fireworks Concert brings you live classical music accompanied by spectacular fireworks.

To book your tickets and for further information visit: http://www.eif.co.uk/virginmoneyfireworks Or phone hub tickets on 01314732000 Age range: 5+ please note that due to the nature and timing to the event parental discretion is advised.

Princes St Gardens: £12.50 Gardens priority entry: £17.50 Inverleith Park: non ticketed Sunday 31st August (or Sep 7th if postponed due to bad weather) Art in the Park Volunteer-run day in historic Spylaw Park packed with art and craft stalls, live music and dance performances, children’s activities (Kids in the Park), fun for all with old-fashioned games, delicious food, and a very popular dog show – Bark in the Park!

We’re having a hat theme this year and would encourage all attendees and participants to wear their funkiest/weirdest/cutest hat on the day. There will be a ‘Hats in the Park’ parade with prizes for the most creative or crazy creation!

Join us, wear a hat and have fun! www.colintonvillage.com

SEPTEMBER 2 September Drumbrae Leisure Centre Under 5‘s Open Day 14.00 – 15.30. It’s never too young to get into the fitness habit! Come and have a great time with a chance to try: Adult and child and pre-school swimming lessons from 4 months. Gym Nippers from 18 months. Highland, Ballet and Hip Hop from 3 – 5yrs. Mini Kickers Football from 3 – 5yrs. Have a look at our website or call us for more information. www edinburghleisure.co.uk 7 September Art Maker The Scottish National Gallery, The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL ©Andy McGregor

Join the Art Maker Club and make your own masterpieces with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. For ages 4 - 12. 14.00 - 16.00

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Out&About 7th September gracemount Leisure Centre Under 5’s Open Day 13.00 - 15.30. Loads of fun stuff for the Under 5's (and adults too!) including a chance to try: Different swimming sessions from 6 months - 5 years (for the younger ones parents need to be in the water too). Gym Nippers from 18 months - 5 years. Football and tennis from 3 - 5years AND free health checks, free tea or coffee for parents of children taking part in the activities. Have a look at the website or call us for more information. www.edinburghleisure.co.uk 7 September You Can Eat a Rainbow!

Dobbies Garden Centre, Melville Nursery, Lasswade, Midlothian, EH18 1AZ www.dobbies.com/whats-on The Dobbies Little Seedlings Club is a free gardening club for youngsters aged between 4–10, teaching them all about plants, wildlife and the environment. A celebration of harvest time! Learn why eating a range of different coloured fruit and vegetables is good for us, which parts of plants we eat, and how plants spread their seeds. And we’ll round it off with a healthy picnic of colourful fruits.

9 September Tiny Tales: Into the Woods The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR 0131 556 9579.

Join storyteller Tim Porteus for a trip into the woods, full of adventures and stories. Lots of fun for little ones to get interactive with stories. Recommended to book in advance.

For ages 1 - 3yrs. 10am & 11.30am / £5 (per Child) 12 September BioBlitz: Bats and Badgers Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS 0131 334 9171 Edinburgh Zoo has a series of events lined up this autumn where all members of the family can join in, get closer and learn more about some of the most popular animals. For ages 12+. 7 - 9pm / £10 Saturday 13 September Second hand sale for children’s clothes & toys at the german speaking congregation Edinburgh in Marchmont 1 Chalmers Crescent EH9 1TW (well sign-posted on the day) from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm.

Join us for a sale of nearly new and pre-loved toys, clothes, equipment and books both in German and English for children up to 10 years and occasionally older. We provide up to 20 stalls. Booking fee is £ 4.00 and a cake for our home-bake cake stall. Please contact Michael at germanchurch@gmail.com or text to mobile No 07726 912804. Entry is £1.00 (kids free) - home-baking and Bratwurst.

All these events and more can be found on

13 September BioBlitz: Plant and Beastie Hunt Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS 0131 334 9171 Edinburgh Zoo has a series of events lined up this autumn where all members of the family can join in, get closer and learn more about some of the most popular animals. 9am - 6pm / Drop-in event, no booking required. Free with Zoo admission.

15 September Create a Caricature Lauriston Castle, 2 Cramond Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 6AD Learn the art of caricature in this very special workshop.

Come prepared with some images of people of whom you would like to create a caricature. With the Lauriston team.Booking essential 0131 228 1155 (Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 10am-5.30pm) 10.30am - 12.30pm or 1.30pm - 3.30pm / £5 per person

13 September It’s in the Bag: Knights and Princesses The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR 0131 556 9579 Oh No! Winston the naughty wizard has kidnapped Princess Rosie and there is only one person who can save her Knight Sam. A thrilling adventure with a good fairy, flying dragons, disappearing frogs and magic spells. Sam needs your help to save Rosie! . Guaranteed fun from this awardwinning duo who delight in taking children's imaginations on a storytelling adventure. For 3 - 6 yrs. 11.15am & 1pm (45mins) / £6 (per Child)

Friday 19th September is International talk like a pirate day!

It is also Doodles 15th Birthday so please pop along on that day and help us celebrate. There will be 15% off all pottery on the day and cakes and chocolate coins galore if you can find all the clues on our treasure hunt.Come dressed as a pirate and recieve 20% off all pottery! There will be prizes for the best costume and pirate themed pottery painted on the day. Official party 3-7pm but we will be in a party mood all day! Booking is recommended, please call us on 0131 229 1399 for more info or to book a space.

29 Marchmont Crescent.

13 September It’s in the Bag: Teddy Bear’s Picnic The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR 0131 556 9579 Join puppets Sam & Rosie on their adventure into the woods! Discover the Teddy Bear’s picnic and help the Teddies find their food, with lots of well-known nursery rhymes and songs. Guaranteed fun from this award-winning duo who delight in taking children's imaginations on a storytelling adventure. For 0 - 2yrs. 10am / £6 (per Child)

20 & 21 September Harvest Festival The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR 0131 552 2901 John Hope Gateway and Garden wide. Free. No booking required. Our exciting annual Harvest Festival is a celebration of the vegetable growing year. Fun activities, gardening advice, information about harvesting, cooking and storing crops, tasters and more. Be inspired to get growing with our community gardening produce show. 1 - 4pm

13 & 14 September Your Ain The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR 0131 552 2901 Real Life Science Studio, John Hope Gateway Free. For ages 5+. No booking required. Come and explore the art of producing your own food, from high-class restaurants to kids' veg patches. Join Slow Food Edinburgh to learn, dig, eat, forage and connect with people producing their own food all over the world - the good, clean and fair way. 1 4pm

21 September Bags of Art The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD ©Lisa Feming

13 - 15 September There's Treasure Everywhere The National Museum of Scotland, Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF Free, drop-in. Take part in a range of activities to explore treasures found in Scotland. From silver hoards to grave secrets, discover what was buried and why.Part of Scottish Archaeology Month. 12:00 – 16:00

Cool and creative fun with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Ages 4 -12. 14.00 - 16.00

14 September Portrait Detectives The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Collect your kit, follow clues and solve a mystery from history! Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. For ages 4 - 12. 14.00 - 16.00

21 September The Jack and Jill Market Meadowbank Stadium, London Rd, Edinburgh, EH7 6AE 60 stalls of quality nearly new baby & kids items from buggies to bikes, cots to clothes and everything else for bumps, babies and beyond up to age 9. 10.30 - 13.00 / £1.50 Adults (kids free)

The Big Draw

13 – 19 October 2014

at the Palace of Holyroodhouse There is lots going on this Half Term at the Palace!

• Drawing workshops • Family Audio Tours • Family Activity Trials • Make & Take Crafts • Family Room For full details of events and dates visit

www.royalcollection.org.uk/whatson 28 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 86

Out&About

our website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk

25 September nappucciono Duncan Place Resource Centre, Duncan Place, Edinburgh, EH6 8HW Your ‘one stop’ event to meet all your real nappy needs. Get free advice and information from parents with lots of experience of using real nappies, see different types of nappies and if you’d like, apply for a trial pack or lending kit. Parents will also be able to: Buy great value second hand nappies.Drop off second hand nappy donations. A proportion of sales generated from all items will create income for the Real Nappy Project to help to continue with the services provided. 10.00 - 11.30am 28 September Right Royal Adventures The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Ages 7+. Free, drop-in. Join storyteller Anna Lehr and hear all about the daring deeds and amazing adventures of some of our royal portraits. 2pm, 2.45 and 3pm.

OCTOBER 5 October Art Maker The Scottish National Gallery, The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL Join the Art Maker Club and make your own masterpieces with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. For ages 4 - 12. 14.00 - 16.00

Come and BounCe around at edinBurgh’s

onLY trampoLine, aCtivitY & partY Centre

unit 2-3, 109 restalrig road, edinburgh eh6 7nY tel: 0131 553 7676 www.clownaround.me.uk

11 - 26 October Creepy Crawlies Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road , Edinburgh, EH12 6TS 0131 334 9171 Edinburgh Zoo has a series of events lined up this autumn where all members of the family can join in, get closer and learn more about some of the most popular animals. Suitable for all ages - arts and crafts for younger children. 9am - 6pm / Drop-in event, no booking required. Free with Zoo admission.

11 October Meet the gordon Highlanders of WW1 The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Ages 7+. Free, drop-in. What was it like to be a soldier during the First World War? Come and meet re-enactors from the renowned Gordon Highlanders 1914-18 and find out. Explore some of the uniforms, weapons and equipment that would have been used at the time and learn about daily life on the front line. 2 - 4pm 11 October- 2 November Spooky Happenings Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 7AR 01506 414957 All manner of strange and unsettling creatures lurk In the darkest shadows of the old mill, and may appear from the darkness when you least expect them. Are you brave enough to follow a trail of terror around scariest corners of the site, encounter many strange and spooky sights, collect clues, and then solve the mystery? You can then relax by joining in with creepy crafts and gruesome games in the museum. / See website for admission charges.

12 October Portrait Detectives The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Collect your kit, follow clues and solve a mystery from history! Supported by the friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. For ages 4 - 12. 14.00 - 16.00 13 - 19 October The Big Draw at the Palace of Holyroodhouse The Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH8 8DX Visit the Palace during the October half term and join our drawing workshops lead by professional illustrators. Take inspiration from the Palace and learn to see objects and your surroundings in a new way. Find out what life was like at the Palace for the kings and queens of Scotland and delve deeper into the historic palace with the family audio guide. Record your findings through an activity trail with The Big Draw, a national campaign to get people drawing.

Visit the Family Room and dress up like royalty and take part in craft activities. For full details of events and dates visit http://www.royalcollection.org.uk/whatson COME BACK FOR FREE! Get your ticket stamped on your first visit and come back as many times as you like in a year at no extra cost. Make the most of our changing events programme – a great way to fill the school holidays. See website for more information.

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Out&About 13 October Japanese Box gardens Lauriston Castle, 2 Cramond Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 6AD Be inspired by the beauty of our award-winning Japanese Friendship Garden at Lauriston - enjoy a morning creating your own beautiful miniature garden design then paint it on fine silk to make a stunning wall hanging. With Jo Scott.

Booking essential 0131 228 1155 (Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 10am-5.30pm) 10.30am 12.30pm / £5 per person

All these events and more can be found on

18 & 19 October Charlie & Lola’s Extremely new Play King’s Theatre Prices From: £12 Charlie and Lola are completely excited to be coming to Edinburgh with their Extremely New Play – and this time they’re bringing along Sizzles the Dog! This magical mix of puppets, live action and music is based on the much-loved books by Lauren Child and the ever popular BBC TV Series. http://www.edtheatres.com/charlieandlola

14 October Autumn Bird House Lauriston Castle, 2 Cramond Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 6AD Decorate your very own wooden bird house. Use found natural objects from Lauriston grounds, paints and varnish, and transform your home for your feathered buddies into something truly unique ready for them to snooze in over winter. With Mike Durnan. For ages 7 +. Booking essential 0131 228 1155 (Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 10am-5.30pm) 10.30am - 12.30pm / £5 per person 17 October A Spooky Halloween Windowscape Lauriston Castle, 2 Cramond Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 6AD Design and create a stunning Halloween 2D windowscape with haunted houses, pumpkins, witches, bats, skeletons and all manner of other spooky images. Learn basic layering techniques with tissue paper to build up your scary scene. With the Lauriston team. Booking essential 0131 228 1155 (Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 10am5.30pm) 10.30am - 12.30pm or 1.30pm - 3.30pm / £5 per person 18 October The Big Draw - American Impressionism The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR For Ages 4-12. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art MOD TWO. Free + free entry to exhibition, drop-in. Explore the world of the Impressionists with loads of fun, creative activities to try your hand at. Part of the Family Arts Festival.

1.30 - 4pm 18 October Fairies, goblins & giants The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR 0131 556 9579 It’s the Giant’s birthday but his cook can’t find the key to the chest which holds the magic Clootie Dumpling Cloth. Help search for the key and meet some fairies and goblins along the way, then make your own and complete the story! Will the key be found? Will the Giant get his clootie dumpling?

StorytellersRobbie Fotheringham, Sheila Kinninmonth and Sylvia Troon offer an absorbing and fun-filled afternoon of stories and puppet-making for all the family! For 6 - 10 yrs.

2pm / £8 per child

Nursery Ballet RAD Grades and Majors Tap and Modern from 5 years and over Please call Angela Watson ARAD RTS

on 0131 661 9590 www.angelawatsonschoolofdance.co.uk Branches in Colinton, Fairmilehead and Firrhill

30 FAMILIES EDINBURGH ISSUE 86

19 October ghoulish glitter globes Lauriston Castle, 2 Cramond Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 6AD Bring along a jam jar and have some fiendish fun learning how to make your own Halloween scene. Transfer it into a ghoulish glitter globe with magical falling autumn leaves.

With the Lauriston team.For ages 8 +. Booking essential 0131 228 1155 (Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 10am-5.30pm) 10.30am - 12.30pm / £5 per person

Out&About

our website www.familiesedinburgh.co.uk

©Lisa Feming

19 October Bags of Art The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR Cool and creative fun with artists Tessa Asquith-Lamb and Louise Fraser. Supported by the Friends of the National Galleries of Scotland. Ages 4 12. 14.00 - 16.00

24 October - 2 November Scottish International Storytelling Festival: Once Upon a Place The Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43 - 45 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1SR 0131 556 9579 Ten days of celebrating the power of storytelling, with family events throughout Edinburgh as we celebrate stories of place.

25 - 27 October The Spooky Castle Lauriston Castle, 2 Cramond Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 6AD Enter our scarily exciting world at Lauriston Castle for a morning of ghoulish fun and adventure, with woodland ghostly trails and crafts. Remember to come in costume, mummies, daddies, grannies, grandpas...and everyone! With the Lauriston team. Booking essential 0131 228 1155 (Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 10am-5.30pm) 10am - 1pm / £7 per person 26 October Hallowe'en Fun Day Traquair House, Innerleithen , Peeblesshire, EH44 6PW 01896 830323 Lots of activities for all ages including ghost stories in the house, magic shows, tarot readings, Halloween Games, Spooky Face Painting, a Witches and Wizards workshop to make your own wand or hat. If you are brave enough you can walk through the Spook Passage Experience – not for the faint hearted.Come dressed to kill and enter our Best Dressed Halloween Character competition. 11.00 - 16.00 / See website for more information.

26 October Storytelling Macastory: A Soldier’s Tale The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Free, drop-in. Join Fergus and Ron as they tell the stories of ©Andy McGregor two soldiers, one Scottish and one German through letters, puppetry, song and rhyme. Part of the Edinburgh International Storytelling Festival. 2pm & 3pm (45 mins) 29 October Mini Monsters and Silly Screams Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 7AR 01506 414957 www.almondvalley.co.uk A gentle introduction to Halloween for the little horrors; with ghostly games, tales of terror, dressing up, dooking for apples and some silly surprises. Screams and smiles for the under eights and their families; no advance booking required. 16.00 - 19.00 / See website for admission charges.

30 October Bats and Cats Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road , Edinburgh, EH12 6TS 0131 334 9171 Edinburgh Zoo has a series of events lined up this autumn where all members of the family can join in, get closer and learn more about some of the most popular animals. For ages 12+. 6.30 - 8.30pm / £10 31 October Halloween night Horrors Pg Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 7AR 01506 414957 All hell breaks loose as Almond Valley re-opens after dark. A festival of gore and unpleasant surprises, ghost trains, night rides to oblivion, and a meeting with your darkest nightmare.

A change of underwear advised. Not suitable for very young children; admission by prebooked ticket only. 6 - 9pm / See website for admission charges

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