Families Cambridgeshire Nov-Dec 2015

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Cambridgeshire

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015 ISSUE #33

Discovery starts here

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WIN A FAMILY

TICKET TO HORRIBLE Our acting, singing and dance classes take your child HISTORIES on a journey of discovery. They’ll love stepping into a new worldCHRISTMAS and you’ll love the effect it has on their confidence and creativity.

SEE PAGE 3

Classes after school, at weekends and during holidays at:

Coleridge Campus

Discovery starts here Radegund Road Cambridge CB1 3RJ

Cambourne Village College

T h e a Sheepfold t r e A r t s Lane Schools T h e a t r e CB23 Arts Sc hools Cambourne 6FR

Stagecoach Stagecoach

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4 - 19 years no experience needed justjourney enthusiasm!

All Star Performers 6 - 16 years

Mini Performers 4 - 7 years 10.00am-4.00pm daily cambridge@stagecoach.co.uk 9.45am - 2.00pm daily 27th - 31st July CAMBRIDGE Theatre Arts Schools DON’T STOP ME NOW 27th - 31st July CAMBRIDGE stagecoach.co.uk/cambridge All Star Performers 6 - 16 years QUALITY UP AND AWAY - FULLY BOOKED 3rd - 7th August CAMBRIDGE Mini Performers 4 - 7UP,years 10.00am-4.00pm daily COME FLY WITH ME 3rd - 7th August CAMBRIDGE TRAINING Call: 01223 359974 10th - 14th August CAMBOURNE 9.45am - 2.00pm daily MISSION IMPOSSIBLE

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INSIDE: CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS • WHERE TO FIND FATHER CHRISTMAS

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Contents & Competitions

Dear Reader,

What’s in this issue?

@familiescambs facebook.com/ CambridgeshireFamilies

DON’T MISS A COPY! Receive Families Cambridgeshire by post for just £9.30 for 6 issues (1 year) or £18 for 12 issues (2 years). Call or email editor@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk for a subscription form.

Last month’s winner was Erica West from Wimblington

WIN

A FAMILY TICKET TO HORRIBLE HISTORIES HORRIBLE CHRISTMAS

See Horrible Histories Christmas on opening night the 14th December.

WORTH Horrible Histories presents the terrible tale of Christmas as it’s never £58! been told before!

From Victorian villains to Medieval monks, Puritan parties to Tudor treats, join us on an hair-raising adventure through the history of Christmas in the company of Charles Dickens, Oliver Cromwell, King Henry VIII, St Nicholas and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer!

It’s a horrible history of Christmas that’s going to send you crackers! To be in with a chance of winning tell us what famous red nosed animal will be part of this year’s Horrible Christmas live on stage www.families cambridgeshire.co.uk Or to book tickets for another date call 01223 357851 or visit www.cornex.co.uk

Families Cambridgeshire is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Cambridgeshire are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. 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.’

17,000 copies of Families Cambridgeshire available through schools, nurseries, hospitals, clubs and classes, selected shops and restaurants. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know.

Welcome to the Christmas edition of Families. With Christmas just around the corner and so much to do in addition to our already busy days, it’s difficult to fit everything in. With this in mind I have put together the usual ‘What’s On’ page’s but with a twist; the pages are jam packed with festive activities including pantomimes, craft fairs and where to find Father Christmas in Cambridgeshire.

All you have to do is choose an event and book it, please don’t forget to mention Families Cambridgeshire if you do.

We have introduced a regular ‘Pregnancy and Baby News’ page in this issue bringing you the latest pregnancy guidelines, pregnancy and baby products and the latest baby news every issue.

Please follow us on Facebook to see how you could win one of 50 tickets to opening night of skating on ice at Parkers piece Cambridge which includes FREE rides and discounted food.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas.

4 News & Views 7P regnancy & Baby News NEW

New page featuring pregnancy advice, baby products and news.

8W hat’s On Great days out and events to get you in the mood this Christmas!

11 W here to find

Father Christmas Places in Cambridgeshire that Father Christmas will be visiting this year so you can be sure you don’t miss him!

13 R eading Matters Margaret White, Director of studies at St Faiths, considers the importance of teaching reading.

14 C hristmas Gift Guide We have put together a few Christmas gift ideas for kids.

EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336 editor@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk DESIGN: Michelle Jones michelle@squarkdesign.co.uk

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News & views

Bodyworks

As a renowned centre for Performing Arts, Bodywork Company Theatre School helps young performers of all ages to achieve their true potential. Offering a wide range of children’s classes including: Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Street, Commercial, Contemporary, Choir, Singing and Musical Theatre with World class West End and commercial teachers.

Bodyworks theatre school recently moved location to a new building boasting 4 spacious studios in central Cambridge. Classes are set by age and ability level offering various performance opportunities throughout the year.in a friendly family atmosphere. www.bodywork-dance.co.uk.

New website coming soon!

Famil ies

Skating on Ice at Parkers Piece The North Pole Cambridge Christmas Festival is back and back in style, giving you the opportunity to get into the spirit of Christmas throughout the festive season.

Featuring an icy extravaganza in the heart of the city centre, this annual festival is centred around a stunning 600m open-air ice rink, great for a fun filled day out with family & friends. Experience interactive side stalls and enjoy the traditional fun fair. Equipped with gifts, children will get their chance to meet Santa and one of his Elves in Santa’s Throne Room. The festival is made for all to enjoy so no matter what, there is something for everyone. Be tempted by treats from the food

LOVE S!

offering; smell the sweet aroma of BBQ cooking on the authentic German Swing Grill, traditional German sausage and Bratwurst. Feast on specialty beef burgers, festive turkey & chicken stuffing rolls. Indulge in crepes, donuts, sweets, hot chocolate & marshmallows and of course, mulled wine and hot cider. Enjoy the new undercover heated Alpine Bar serving festive cocktails, with live music at the weekends. To explore The North Pole Cambridge Christmas Festival head to www.thenorthpolecambridge. co.uk for tickets. The North pole Ice Rink are giving a 20% early bird discount to visitors who book Ice Rink tickets before 19th November 2015 so book your tickets quick!

Inspiring tuition– free trial session!

Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition for 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities. The centres are open 7 days a week, meaning Explore can fit into busy family life.

As Explore members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum in England and the Curriculum for Excellence in Scotland.

Find out how your child can benefit from Explore Learning membership today. Book your free trial at www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Wisbech Grammar’s £2m Investment Wisbech Grammar School’s newly built £2M refectory was officially opened on Friday 4 September by guest of honour, The Rt. Hon. Lord Taylor of Holbeach CBE. The refectory is named ‘Skelton Hall’ in honour of Robert Skelton MA, CEng, FIChemE, FNucI, MI MechE. Robert, a Nuclear Energy Teaching Fellow then Senior Lecturer in Chemical Engineering at the University of Cambridge 1990 -2007, served as Governor to the School for 15 years from September 1998 - March 2014.

The Headmaster and Governors were joined by esteemed guests including local MP, Stephen Barclay, Wisbech Town Mayor, Cllr Hodgson 4

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and Chair of Fenland District Council, Cllr Carol Cox. Guests were served afternoon tea in the Skelton Hall after the ceremony with musical accompaniment provided by First Form pupil Natasha Richardson, performing her own compositions, and Miles MacLachlan, a Sixth Form grade 7 pianist playing a variety of classical and jazz pieces.

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Buy online or call 01786 473508

News & views

Children’s Christmas party in aid of NSPCC This December 6th the NSPCC is holding a Christmas party in Upwell Hall, (near Wisbech) 11am – 1pm, to raise money for the children’s charity and provide some festive fun for the little ones. Experienced Stripey Wipey party entertainer will entertain the children with a blend of comedy magic, ventriloquism, balloon modeling, puppetry, music and dance. All children will receive a small gift from Father Christmas, hot dogs for lunch and get the chance to win a family ticket to Skating on ice at parkers piece Cambridge or a family ticket to Snow White at Ely Theatre. There will be stalls for adults plus tea, coffee and mince pies on sale. Tickets cost, £7.50 per child for children aged 2-10 years. Tickets are only available in advance and not on the door.

Parents must stay with their children. To book your tickets call 01945 773013 or 07921238529 or email littledesie@icloud.com

Label4kids launch Christmas collection Labels4Kids has started a great range of personalised gifts for Christmas or birthdays from Disney, Hasbro, Nickelodeon and Mattel for your kids! Have your child’s name and the names of their friends written into a story, such as Frozen or Spongebob. They stock everything from Ninja Turtles to Disney Princess, books, clocks and nametags.

Allow 3 weeks for delivery, as they are custom made to your personal requirements.Go to www.labels4kids.com to see more.

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LOVES

Smoking in Cars with kids is banned From this Autumn, smoking in a car when there are children in it has been banned. The new law has come into force in England and Wales where drivers could face a fine of £50.

Anti-smoking groups have welcomed the law, pointing out the potential harm passive smoking can cause to children.

However, spokespeople for the police have said that they will advise parents not to smoke rather than enforcing fines. They say that it is not a major road safety issue.

Home from home’ at Chilly Powder Planning ahead for your next winter holiday?

Then Chilly Powder (www.chillypowder.com) is worth a look. Francesca, Paul and their 3 children - Ben, Eloise & Jamie Eyre - live in Morzine in France all year round and have a good knowledge of Alpine traditions and the Morzine people. Having adapted their chalet holiday style over the years to suit the tastes of their regular guests, they offer the perfect ski holiday for families, couples or mixed groups in relaxing luxury, with fantastic food and outstanding facilities.

Chilly Powder has been operating catered chalet ski holidays since 1996. The genuine ski to the door location of their 3 luxury catered ski chalets offer unrivalled in-house childcare

facilities which sets them apart from other ski chalets in Morzine, France.

All bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms, there is an outdoor hot tub, sauna and massage room and inhouse childcare is provided in their own crèche.

The ski chalets are unique in Morzine for small or large groups or for individual families with children or babies. With excellent food, friendly staff and a relaxing atmosphere in the chalets, Chilly Powder Morzine is the perfect winter holiday destination.

Education Secretary Calls For Schools To Provide Childcare Education Secretary Nicky Morgan has said that schools should take “reasonable steps” to provide childcare for the whole length of the working day during term time and the school holidays too.

As part of this move, parents are to be given the right to request that their children’s schools put this care structure into place. However, the funding for this has not been agreed.

Head teachers have said that this idea would have to be looked at “extremely carefully to ensure it is not just a popular gimmick.”

Russell Hobby, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, has responded to say that while giving care for children while parents are working is a good idea, there are several

reasons to be wary of the Government’s promise.

Budget cuts and recruitment issues are just two of the reasons why schools might not be able to provide care from early in the day until after parents finish work.

“Extending provision beyond 38 weeks, providing care outside of term time, can also prove very difficult for schools because of staffing and a lack of private provision,” said Mr Hobby.

He continued: “Parents can ask but the government must guarantee that a school’s decision is respected. Otherwise, it is merely going to provoke conflict between schools and their communities and would undermine the decision-making of head teachers.

Overgenerous grandparents risk leaving themselves short of capital Parents and grandparents who gift money to their grown-up children and grandchildren say they risk compromising their own standard of living by being overgenerous, according to a new study by Investec Wealth & Investment Nearly a third (32%) of parents and grandparents aged over 55 currently or plan to gift money to their children and grandchildren at an average of £5,026 a year. Of these, 18% plan to take advantage of the new pension freedoms by gifting money from their newly cashed-in pension pots. On a regional basis, grandparents and parents in London and the South East are on average the most generous while those in Wales gift the lowest amount.

However, nearly one-in-five (18%) think they’re giving away too much and 11% admit to having had to cut back on their lifestyle in order to afford their generosity.

Cutbacks made by overgenerous parents and grandparents include travel (50%);

meals out (42%); home improvement plans (39%); clothes (24%); hobbies (21%); and food shopping (11%).

In addition, 3% of respondents have had to delay retirement to help finance the younger generation.

Chris Aitken, Head of Financial Planning at Investec Wealth & Investment said: “It’s understandable that many grandparents want to give their grown-up children and grandchildren a helping hand financially, particularly with big ticket items such as house deposits and education fees. But generosity has its limits and we would strongly advise people to stick to what they can afford without if affecting their own quality of life.”

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An HMC Independent Co-educational Day School for Pupils Aged 4-18

Find out what makes us extraordinary Magdalene House, the Preparatory School for Wisbech Grammar School, invites you to our Open Morning Saturday 30 January 10am-12pm

ils p u p r Fo 11 4 d e ag years To register or for more information, please contact our Admissions Team:

e: Admissions@WisbechGrammar.com t: 01945 586 750 w: MagdaleneHousePrep.com 6

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Families Pregnancy & Baby News

Top five tips for pregnant women experiencing pelvic or lower back pain I

t is common for back pain to occur during the latter stages of pregnancy; as the hormone relaxin is released into the body it helps the ligaments soften for childbirth, this helps the baby pass through the pelvis easier. The downside is that instead of the pelvis being locked in place and stable, it now moves causing irritated joints, stress, abnormal wear and pain. Here are five helpful tips for pregnant women or new mums experiencing pelvic and lower back pain:

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Take regular exercise, such as walking or swimming, to strengthen your muscles and increase your flexibility.

Exercises for the tummy and pelvic floor muscles will help – ask your midwife or GP to recommend some.

Improve your posture when sitting, walking and sleeping. Slouching strains your spine so, while it can be difficult with a growing bump at the front, always be mindful to keep your back straight with your shoulders pulled back.

When you’re sleeping on your side, place a pillow between your knees to take the stress off your back.

Heat and cold are great pain relievers.

A simple ice massage has been known

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to alleviate back pain and it is quick and easy to do; put ice on the affected area of your back to reduce inflammation and so ease discomfort. After two or three days switch to gentle heat, but be careful not to apply heat to your abdomen, a bath or shower will do.

Be careful at all times and do not push through the pain. If it hurts, don’t do it. And if anything worries you, see your GP. New mums experiencing pain in the lower back, hips and buttocks could benefit from the new bac< Sacroiliac Belt (£34.99 from backpainhelp.com), designed in conjunction with experts at The London Spine Clinic.

For more information about the bac< range or for expert back care advice visit www.backpainhelp.com

Booty-licious leggings for your babes by Blade & Rose

All babies to be protected against meningitis A new vaccine to protect babies against meningitis B has been introduced for all childhood vaccinations for babies aged two, four and 24 months.

Since September 2015, all babes will routinely be given the meningitis vaccine at their regular vaccination appointments. The scheme was delayed by cost disputes but is now the first national, publically funded programme against this deadly infection in the world. It should protect babies and children against 90% of meningococcal group B bacteria. This can affect babies under the age of one and can be caught up to around the age of five years. If left untreated, it can cause damage to the brain and cause blood poisoning. It can also kill. The Men ACWY vaccine will also be offered to all 17 and 18 year olds who are starting university this year.

Paracetamol ‘may harm male foetus” Paracetamol could have an adverse effect on developing male babies. A Professor at the MRC Centre for Reproductive Health at the University of Edinburgh has said that the use of paracetamol for a week or more could lower a baby boy’s testosterone levels while in the womb.

Doctors recommend that women should take the lowest possible dose and take it for as short a time as possible. If they have pain or fever, these can be serious in pregnancy, so it is best they talk to their GP.

Luxurious gift sets for the family who has everything Whether it is a baby shower gift, gift for a newborn, for a first birthday or Christmas, Little Butterfly London’s new gift sets are the perfect present; The most luxurious baby skincare you can buy, even for the family who has everything. Little Butterfly London’s beautiful gift sets contain two or three divine mother & baby bath time products from an award winning collection. Combining nature’s achievements with advanced organic certified ingredients, Little Butterfly London continues to amaze all who try it (even adults). www.littlebutterflyorganic.com

The new Blade & Rose range will keep your little tots warm and comfy while they crawl around in cheeky and colourful leggings. Unisex designs include a bristly hedgehog, a bootyful brown bear and a fun futuristic robot. Available in sizes 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 1-2 years, 3-4 years, RRP £10.00 For more information or to see the full leggings and clothing range please visit www. bladeandrose.co.uk

Iodine deficient mums in the UK urged to consume more seaweed Iodine has been linked to low IQ, fatigue, miscarriages and problems with the thyroid - the gland in the neck that regulates metabolism and early development.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) says iodine deficiency is the biggest international cause of mental impairment and has urged worldwide governments to add it to salt as a prerequisite

requirement.

Trace amounts of iodine are found in dairy products but richly abundant in some seafoods such as cod and scallops.

Asian inspired snacks brand, itsu, have seen significant increase in demand for their seaweed thins range, a product rich in iodine.

1.5 million packs of their popular seaweed thins snack were sold in 2014,a 178% year on year increase.

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Families Fun

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Horrible Histories Horrible Christmas

WHEN? 14th December –9th January WHERE? Cambridge Corn Exchange

Sledging and IceSliding WHEN? November/December

HOW MUCH? Family Ticket £58 Horrible Histories presents the terrible tale of Christmas as it’s never been told before!

From Victorian villains to Medieval monks, Puritan parties to Tudor treats, join us on an hair-raising adventure through the history of Christmas in the company of Charles Dickens, Oliver Cromwell, King Henry VIII, St Nicholas and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer!

It’s a horrible history of Christmas that’s going to send you crackers!

01223 357851 www.cornex.co.uk

WHERE? SnoZone, Milton Keynes

HOW MUCH? From £3.50 To be guaranteed a white Christmas this year visit the SnoZone Milton Keynes covered in real snow all year round, offering a whole new world of fun!

Age 2 years + and Adults www.snozoneuk.com

W hat’s On places Things to do, e h ad to go, fun to b s... this Christma … for k ids of a

ll ages!

Christmas Craft Fair

Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens 12A

WHERE? Wimpole Estate, Cambridge

WHERE? The Luxe cinema – Wisbech

WHEN? 14th –15th November, 10:30am

Christmas Gift & Food Fair

WHEN? 13-14th November, 9:30 am to 4:30pm WHERE? Ely Cathedral

HOW MUCH? Adult £3 under 16’s FREE Whether you’re looking for a special gift, accessories or decorations to complete your festive ensemble, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Attractions include, cookery demonstrations by celebrity chefs, a festival food hall, vintage carousel, reindeer and elves! www.elycathedral.org

Wars universe to life with Episode VII – The Force Awakens. www.theluxecinema.co.uk 01945 588808

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Christmas Fair Crafts, Food and Gifts

WHEN? 20th – 22nd November

WHERE? Cambridge corn exchange

HOW MUCH? From £27.50 Five sell out UK tours later with 250,000 tickets sold and countless accomplishments; Diversity have announced their most up close and personal tour yet. The tour will see Diversity performing exclusively choreographed routines based on their ITV special.

01223 357851 www.cornex.co.uk

HOW MUCH? Adults £6.50, children £2, under 5’s FREE This popular Christmas Craft Show is back at Sandringham Be met at the gate with a warming glass of seasonal punch, and stroll in comfort around the show. www.craft-show.co.uk

Arthur Rank Hospice Charity Fun Run

WHEN? 22nd November, 7:30 PM WHERE? Ely

HOW MUCH? Adults £11, Children £8, On the day registration is available at £15 Take part in the 5km fun run through the historic City of Ely, raising money for the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity.

Fancy dress is optional but encouraged! All runners will receive a free Santa hat and finisher’s medal! www.arhc.org.uk/Ef5k%20 Register.asp 01223 723115

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The North Pole Ice Rink WHEN? Opens 20th November

WHERE? Parker’s Piece, Parkside, Cambridge

HOW MUCH? Family ticket £33 The North Pole Cambridge Christmas Festival is back, taking place throughout the festive season and bringing you an icy extravaganza in the heart of the city centre. Skate in style at one of the most stunning open-air ice rinks the UK has to offer and glide around the new 600m Ice Rink. Plus, enjoy the wide array of traditional entertainment rides & fun interactive side stalls, which will have something for everyone.

Sample the delicious pop up food market, brought to you by local company Food park Cambridge and be tempted by tasty treats from around the world. To be in with a chance of winning a ticket to open night visit our facebook page ww.facebook/cambridgeshirefamilies. www.thenorthpolecambridge.co.uk

Please quote Families when booking any of these events

WHEN? Tuesday 17th November

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HOW MUCH? Family tickets £22.

Half price children’s tickets when showing the Families advert when booking a family film.

The long awaited sequel to the classic science-fiction franchise set in a galaxy far, far away is here! J.J. Abrams (Star Trek) brings his new vision of the Star

WHERE? Sandringham Park

Diversity

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HOW MUCH? All tickets £4. Under 14’s FREE Wimpole’s festive season starts up with our fantastic Christmas Craft Fair. Find unique and unusual presents from over fifty craft stalls, visit our Stable Block shops and enjoy mulled wine and tasty mince pies. 01223 206 000 wimpolehall@nationaltrust.org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ wimpole-estate

WHEN? Showing in December

Families Fun NSPCC Children’s charity Christmas Party

THE KEY THEATRE PRESENTS

WHEN? Sunday 5th December, Times: 11:00 – 1pm WHERE? Upwell Hall, Upwell, Wisbech

HOW MUCH? Tickets £7.50 and must be booked in advance Experienced Stripey Wipey party entertainer will entertain the children with a blend of comedy magic, ventriloquism, balloon modeling, puppetry, music and dance. For children aged 2-10years.

To book tickets call 01945 773013 or 07921238529 or email littledesie@icloud.com

Written by Brad Fitt with additional material by Simon Egerton

Directed by Simon Egerton Music and Lyrics by Simon Egerton

Peterborough’s original and best, traditional family pantomime

3 Dec 2015 3 Jan 2016 Book your seats now on 01733 207239 or visit

vivacity-peterborough.com

Aladin VIV_028_2015_Aladdin Panto_a4 poster_v1.indd 1

13/07/2015 12:43:41

WHEN? 3rd December- 3rd January WHERE? Key Theatre Peterborough HOW MUCH? Child £10-£18.50 This is the story of Aladdin – the poor boy who finds fame and fortune thanks to a genie in a magic lamp. Magic, adventure and excitement together with an abundance of slapstick, humour, music and spectacle. This story has it all.

01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com

Cinderella

WHEN? 3rd December – 17th January WHERE? Cambridge Arts Theatre HOW MUCH? From £13.50 Buttons is in love, the Ugly Sisters are fighting over a husband,and poor Cinderella is dreaming of a better life. Cinderella is whisked away into a world of charming princes, glittering ball gowns and dream weddings.

01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

A Christmas Celebration WHEN? 5th-8th and 12th-13th December, 11.00 – 17:00pm WHERE? Peckover House and Garden - Wisbech HOW MUCH? Family ticket £17.75 Child £3.55 Selected rooms of Peckover House will be decorated for Christmas with festive floral arrangements and Christmas trees. Music by local choirs and musicians. Mulled wine and homemade mince pies available in the Reed Barn 01945 583463 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ peckover-house Fre

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Mill Road Winter Fair

WHEN? Saturday 5th December, 10:30am-4:30pm

WHERE? Mill Rd Cambridge

HOW MUCH? Free A fantastic day of delicious food, entertainment, community, creativity and fun in Cambridge’s most vibrant and multicultural neighbourhood. www.millroadwinterfair.org

Winter Lights

WHERE? Anglesey Abbey - Cambridge

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HOW MUCH? Child £8.50 Winter gardens will be illuminated at night -highlighting the natural beauty, shape and texture of the trees and shrubs. Music will drift through the trees, whilst entertainers will enthrall visitors young and old alike.

01223 810080 www.national trust.org.uk/anglesey-abbey

The Wizard of Oz

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Christmas Fair

WHEN? 12th – 27th December

WHEN? 12th December, 11:00am-3:00pm

WHERE? The Cresset Theatre Peterborough

WHERE? Ferry Meadows Country Park - Peterborough

HOW MUCH? Prices from £12.00 Follow the yellow brick road to the magical city of Oz, and join Dorothy in her adventures. Meet the scarecrow, tin man and lion along the way, and help them find the wizard to defeat the wicked witch.

01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk

Papworth Hospital Charity’s Annual Christmas Carol Service WHEN? 5th December 2014

HOW MUCH? FREE event Get in the festive spirit by going along to a Christmas Fair in the beautiful surroundings of Ferry Meadows Country Park. visitor.services@neneparktrust. org.uk

Peter Pan the musical

WHEN? 16th-20th December

WHERE? ADC Theatre, Cambridge

HOW MUCH? From £9 Peter Pan is a boy who didn’t want to grow up and so spent his life in Neverland battling the pirates and Indians. When he brings the Darling children to Neverland with him, he is finally able to fight his biggest enemy, the elegant Captain Hook www.KDtheatre.co.uk

Snow White

WHERE? Ely Cathedral, 11am

HOW MUCH? From £12.50 The lessons will be read by members of hospital staff including consultants, doctors, nurses and governors. Papworth Hospital is the UK’s largest specialist hospital for the treatment of complex heart and lung problems and treats nearly 85,000 patients across the UK each year. 01353 660349 email: box.office@elycathedral.org www.elycathedral.org

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WHEN? 27th November - 13th December.

WHEN? 22nd December – 10th January WHERE? KD theatre The Maltings Ely

Snow White and Rose Red WHEN? 8th-31st December

WHERE? Cambridge Junction

HOW MUCH? From £15.00 Family ticket £42 Based on the original fairy tale by The Brothers Grimm, acclaimed theatre company RashDash present a musical quest for justice, love, and friendship.Snow White likes to tell stories and paint. Rose Red likes to race with the deer and the wolves. When a friendly bear knocks on their door, the mischievous sisters have no idea that it’s the beginning of a magnificent adventure. www.junction.co.uk/

HOW MUCH? Family tickets £47 Hi Ho, Hi Ho! It’s off to the panto we go! Go down to the Maltings, Ely for the fairest panto of them all: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Box office 01638 781037 www.kdtheatre.co.uk

Please mention Families Cambridgeshire when booking

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Horrible Histories proudly presents the terrible tale of Christmas as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never been told before!

Santa Specials 28th November to 24th December 2015

Early-bird special Let your festivities begin with Santa at the Nene Valley Railway where the whole family will enjoy themselves on this Christmas outing. This year we have opened the bookings extra early to avoid disappointment.

Cal

0178l: 7844 0 to bo 44 o k

Visit: www.nvr.org.uk 10

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NOV EM BER / DECEM BER 2015

Famil ies

Families Fun

LOVE S!

Nene Valley Railway

Departs from Wansford – Peterborough

Dates: 28th November to 24th December.

From 9.30am to 3.30pm

Church Farm

Stowbardolph Nr Downham Market

Price: From £12.50 Let your festivities begin with Father Christmas at the Nene Valley Railway where the whole family will enjoy themselves on this Christmas outing.

Your Father Christmas experience starts with a visit to his log cabin where each child receives a special present from the man himself.

Families then join the decorated train for a 55 minute ride to Peterborough and return. On board the train staff serves the children with a drink and chocolates. Parents and other adults receive a serving of a mince pie with either an alcoholic miniature, wine or a hot drink.

Father Christmas walks through the train to see the children and to wish everyone the compliments of the season.

Booking is essential 01780 784444 www.nvr.org.uk

Dates: 3rd -20th December, every Thursday – Sunday (with extra dates 21, 22 & 23 December) Price: Entry to Father Christmas is £8.50 per child and includes a present.

Father Christmas will be in his magical woodland retreat no need to book, just turn up for a warm welcome from the white bearded gentleman and his elf. You can also visit the “real life” nativity scenes with resident animals in starring roles! 01366 382162. www. churchfarmstowbardolph.co.uk

WHERE TO FIND

s a m t s i r h C r e h t Fa How to keep your little elves happy this festive season!

Father Christmas’ Workshop

Santa’s Christmas Jungle Grotto

Dates: Saturdays & Sundays from 5th -20th December

Dates: 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th - 24th December

Location: Wicken Fen/Ely

Price: Child £8.50 (includes present) Meet Father Christmas in his workshop as he prepares all of the presents. There are lots of festive decorations to make, and a Christmas trail to follow. 01353 720274 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wicken-fen

A Victorian Christmas

Audley End House and Gardens – Saffron Walden

Dates: Sat 5th – Sun 6th December Price: Family £45.70 with an additional charge per child to visit Father Christmas in his workshop. Encounter a range of costumed characters preparing the house for the festive season, meet Father Christmas and his reindeer and take part in a festive fun trail around the house and grounds. Try some hot chestnuts from the fire, dance to festive tunes and even make your own Victorian toy to take away with you. 0370 333 1181 http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/audley

Shepreth Wildlife Park - Linton

Price: £9.95 all proceeds go to the Shepreth Hedgehog Hospital Father Christmas and his merry elves will be spreading cheer and giving out presents! Each child will have 5 minutes with Father Christmas and a special gift. www.sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk

Santa’s Grotto

Maize Maze Skylark Garden Centre, March Dates: Weekends from the 28th November to 20th December (with extra dates – 21,22,23 & 24 December) Price: Entry is just £9.00 per child.

At Skylark this year visit the real life traditional nativity with live animals, before meeting Father Christmas in his grotto. Every child who visits Father Christmas will receive a special Christmas gift then afterwards why not warm up with a hot chocolate or an all day breakfast in the award winning cafe. Children eat free!

01354 741212 www. skylarkmaizemaze.co.uk

Santa`s Magical Journey Thursford, Norfolk

Dates: 28th and 29th November & 5th, 6th, 12th,13th & 18th - 23rd December 2015.

Price: Adults £9.50 & Children £15.50 includes present & seasonal entertainment.

Visit Father Christmas in the magical setting of Thursford, a treat to cherish for everyone who wants to experience this magical fantasy journey and visit Father Christmas in his very special house.

01328 878477. www.thursford.com

Please mention Families Cambridgeshire when booking NOV EM BER / DECEM BER 2015

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Peterborough 01733 555 355 www.explorelearning.co.uk 12

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NOV EM BER / DECEM BER 2015

Families Education

sponsored by

READING MATTERS Margaret White, Director of Studies at St Faith’s, considers the importance of teaching reading well in school.

espite extensive cultural, technological and when there is just the right amount of intellectual educational changes, the value of reading stretch for the individual pupil or class. Reading remains unchallenged and unchallengeable. material which is just within grasp if pupils are at Reading accurately, fluently and expressively, full stretch, is intellectually exhilarating: when texts is an essential starting point for learning. The are pitched with an appropriate level of ambition, process of reading, however, is much greater than pupils can become utterly engrossed in a novel, transference of symbol to sound, and its or passionate in their exploration of a purpose far richer than the ability new-found poem. to retrieve information or make Reading well develops deductions, essential though intelligence by fostering Reading good these skills are. critical thinking skills. ly ted oub und re literatu If the purpose of In reading Macbeth, feeds the imagination and reading literature is to pupils grapple with develop both mind ideas of ambition, fosters within the next and soul, texts read in greed, power, truth lity abi e ativ cre a tion era gen school must be chosen and justice. They to use language with clarity, with utmost care and question, debate purpose. English teachers and reason together, precision and impact. at St Faith’s consider drawing on fictional closely whether the quality episodes to support their and sophistication of a text are assertions. They also learn the likely to promote the fullest intellectual value of a ‘play’ – that these great and emotional responses, and maximise the themes can be ‘played out’ and explored in the opportunity to develop each individual pupil’s own sphere of the imagination. use of language.

Literature is a place of experiment, where Literature with an appropriate level of challenge great and small actions and events, resultant is chosen, because maximum learning takes place profound consequences and soaring emotions,

D

can be experienced vicariously, safely, butnonetheless vividly. As a result, reading also fosters empathy.We encourage pupils to articulateresponses to themes of rootedness, alienation and identitythrough a variety of challenging literary styles and genres.

Reading such material, pupils develop a sense of awe at the impact of language, and the devastating – or exhilarating – power of the word. At St Faith’s, responses to such rich literature seem to foster a rich creativity.

Reading good literature undoubtedly feeds the imagination and fosters within the next generation a creative ability to use language with clarity,precision and impact.

As a gateway to broader intellectual maturity, reading needs to be taught purposefully and passionately. We learn to read in order to make better sense of ourselves, our neighbours and our world. We learn to read in order to imagine, create and express more freely and more fully.

Bycarefully guiding this process at St Faith’s, we trust that our pupils will be of benefit to society in due time, wherever in the global community they find themselves.

To read the full article visit: www.familiescambridgeshire.co.uk

For more information on St Faith’s visit: www.stfaiths.co.uk NOV EM BER / DECEM BER 2015

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THE KEY THEATRE PRESENTS

Written by Brad Fitt with additional material by Simon Egerton

Directed by Simon Egerton Music and Lyrics by Simon Egerton

Peterboroughâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original and best, traditional family pantomime

3 Dec 2015 3 Jan 2016 Book your seats now on 01733 207239 or visit

vivacity-peterborough.com VIV_028_2015_Aladdin Panto_a4 poster_v1.indd 1

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13/07/2015 12:43:41

Families Gift Guide 1

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1 Modern Moose - Cuckoo Pendulum Clock £42.50 amara.com 2 Spring Flowers Jewellery Box - £19.98 beckyandlolo.co.uk 3 Barnaby Toots Owl Sewing kit £17. notonthehighstreet.com

Christmas

1 Wooden workbench £60.00 aspace.co.uk 2 Make Your Own Wind Up T Rex £3.95 Dotcomgiftshop.com 3 Space Rocket playhouse £29.95 Dotcomgiftshop.com 4 Balloon Dog Light £14.95 red5.co.uk 5 Cyclone wooden marble run £129.99 hapetoys.com

GIFT GUIDE Fun for them (and you?!) this Christmas with more than a hint of nostalgia…

6 Cubebot £25 www.rume.co.uk 7 Robotics Smart Machines £100.00 thegreatgiftcompany. co.uk

4 Princess Play house castle £154.95 cuckooland.com 5 Doorway-theater-and-café £62.00 oskarandellen.com 6 Wooden kids play kitchen £69.95 toyzworld.co.uk 7 Emily Button Doll £18.00 MarksandSpencer.com 8 Rabbit night light £6.00 maiden.bigcartel.com 9 Wooden skipping rope £3.95 Dotcomgiftshop.com

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8 Modern Moose Shark Pendulum Clock £42.50 amara.com 9 LEGO Minecraft The Mine £109.00 littlewoods

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