Families Solent East Issue 78 September October 18

In this issue...

Education & Early Years special Clubs & Classes Autumn family fun ProFessIonAL TUITIon CenTres In Portsmouth and Fareham

n n n n n

Maths english reading/Writing spelling 11+

FR ASES EE SMEN C T ALL n

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Fully Qualified Teachers • Individually Tailored Lessons • Ages 6-16

Telephone: Portsmouth 02393 96 86 26 Fareham 01329 738 100 • www.ilovetolearn.co.uk

Issue 78 September/October 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

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Families Solent East 1

ETS FAMILY TICK AVAILABLE cft.org.uk/forfamilies 01243 781312

ON SALE NOW Family friendly events include: FUN PALACES THE MIDNIGHT GANG CHRISTMAS CONCERTS SLEEPING BEAUTY THE NUTCRACKER DEAR SANTA THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE and much more…

EXPERIENCE MORE Nursery | Infant | Junior | Senior | Sixth Form 023 9236 0036 | www.pgs.org.uk

Open Morning

29 September 2018 | 9.30am

Managing Editor Caroline Roope Editorial and Design Caroline Roope caroline@familiessolenteast.co.uk Tel: 02392 042 874 / 07967 597779 Advertising Claire Clarricoates

claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk

Next issue November/December 2018 Booking deadline 8 October 2018

4 6

Clubs and Classes

about social media

7

Making the most of

open days

Educating your child

8

Education and Early Years special Copyright: Families Solent East 2018 Families Solent East is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Solent East are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Solent East. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Solent East; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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Local news Autumn family fun Half term and Halloween fun What's On

Families Solent East 3

Boosting Children’s Self-esteem and Life Skills with Perform A common struggle shared by many children is lack of confidence. This can stop some children reaching their full potential.

Clubs and Classes Top Tips for Choosing Classes, Activities & Clubs for Your Child by Elisabeth Dolton Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the range and volume of activities, available for your child to join? Aside from the important issue of LOGISTICS, how do you go about deciding what to choose? Here are my top tips: Talk to your children, explain how many activities you think there is time for and find out what they are interested in pursuing.

Let them choose at least one class, activity or club themselves and help them choose activities that reflect who they are and what they want to learn and don’t impose your own preferences.

If you have a reluctant child, explain that it’s important and fun to try new things, but don’t insist.

Remember that moving from one activity to another is normal amongst children.

Always consider the benefits of an activity and don’t assume that high cost equals high quality.

Ensure staff members are professionals with relevant skills and experience.

Consider the mix of activities. The benefits of exercise are huge, so try to include a sport.

Good luck!

Birthday Child goes FREE Just book a Premiership or Championship Party in 2018 and the birthday child goes free, i.e. 11 children for the price of 10. Just book online or call 02392191101 and we will give you an extra place free of charge.

Your 2 hour Premiership party includes: * Goals Party host for 2 hours * Range of food options * Football themed cake * Medals for all Children * Captains Armband * Birthday Trophy * Drawstring bootbags * Mini Football Call now to get booked in and give your child a Birthday party to remember.

Perform is a unique drama school that uses drama, dance and singing to help all children achieve their true potential – even those that are shy and reserved.

“Perform is NOT a stage school” stresses Perform Producer, Karen. “It teaches life skills through fun drama games and end of term shows. The real aim of the classes is to help children develop the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Coordination and Communication.

“Classes are small with both a Producer and a Teacher.

Children are offered a free trial and the Producer spends time beforehand with each parent establishing their goals.

For instance, speaking more clearly or making eye contact when introduced to someone unfamiliar.”

Producers report back to parents after each class on the focus of the week and answer questions about the progress of individual children.

“Shy children often come to classes clinging to their parents.

I can pretty much guarantee that within 5 or 6 classes, they will run in without waving goodbye” reports Karen.

For more information on your local classes in Chichester, Fareham, Petersfield and Waterlooville, visit

www.perform.org.uk/try

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes About: Confidence building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child's true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention. Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions.

Venues: Chichester: St Michael's Church Hall, Summersdale Road, PO19 6PN. Mondays 4 - 5pm (4-7 year olds), 5 - 6pm (7 - 12 year olds) Petersfield: Salvation Army Hall, Swan Street, GU32 3AD. Mondays 4-5pm (4-7 year olds), 5-6pm (4-7 year olds) Fareham: Titchfield Community Centre, Mill St, PO14 4AB. Tuesdays 4-5pm / 5-6pm (4-7 year olds), 6-7pm (7-12 year olds) Waterlooville: All Saints Church Hall, Catherington Lane, PO8 0TD. Tuesdays 4-5pm (4-7 year olds), 5-6pm (4-7 year olds) Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk

www.perform.org.uk

Bond with your baby try Baby Massage with Jo Lamb!

Baby Massage with Jo Lamb are small friendly classes offering quality time for you and your baby to connect, as well as the opportunity to meet other parents. Classes are five weekly sessions, learning new massage strokes each week. Contact Jo Baby Massage for more information at with Jo Lamb babymassage.jolamb@gmail. com or

www.facebook.com/ babymassagewithjolamb

4 F amilies Solent East

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Clubs and Classes Award winning Rusalka offer a great start in swimming for all ages Rusalka is the most accredited private swim school in the area and offers a great start in swimming tuition for children of all ages from 3 months to 99! They first opened their swim school in 2005 and they now operate two of their own pools, six days a week, with free adjacent on site parking. Both pools are equipped with state of the art automatic heating systems which maintain the water temperature at 31C and the air temperature at 32C at all the times.

In the past thirteen years they have taught thousands of babies and children to swim, picking up several national awards along the way, including Best UK Swimming Teacher and Swim England (ASA) Centre of Excellence status. Rusalka takes babies from 3 months old and there are never more than 5 children in a class at any one time. Children can achieve various Swim England (ASA) Stage awards, badges and certificates as they progress.

Find out more by calling Rusalka on 02392 594449 or visiting the website at www.rusalkaswim.com.

Football fun with Little Kickers

Help your child grow confidence One of the most important skills children can master is self-confidence: it will help them build friendships, perform well in school and resist negative peer pressure. But while some youngsters are blessed with a natural ability to run headlong into new activities others need a little help.

According to the team at performing arts school Stagecoach Havant, performing arts can give even the shyest wallflower confidence. “It’s not only about training children to perform on stage, it’s about helping them to perform better in life,” said Juli Richards, Principal at the stage school.

For more information on Stagecoach Havant’s classes, go to www.stagecoach.co.uk/havant

Little Kickers is THE home of pre-school football. Children are given a positive introduction to sport by teaching high quality football skills in a friendly, fun and pressure-free environment.

There are four different classes tailored specifically to the needs of children between 18 months and seven years of age.

It’s the perfect way to ignite an enthusiasm for sport that will stay with them for life.

Classes are available in Havant, Portsmouth, and Fareham.

Please contact Gary Darling for details on 07896 009 651 or email gdarling@littlekickers.co.uk.

Approved soccer training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years

Local classes at a venue near you

Call 07896009651 For Details Email gdarling@littlekickers.co.uk

Unlock your child’s potential with our expertly led singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 -18 year olds.

Find out more today: stagecoach.co.uk/havant havant@stagecoach.co.uk 0845 521 3730

Where Learning’s a Ball familiesonline.co.uk

Creative Courage For Life

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

Families Solent East 5

Educating your Child about Social Media

By Claire Winter During the primary school years, there is a tendency to want to bury your head in the sand when it comes to the issues and challenges of mobile phone use and social media. However, by Years 5 and 6 many of your children’s peers will start to actively use apps like Snapchat and Instagram and you need to start to understand how to help your child navigate the online world.

The legal age for children to use social sites like Facebook, Instagram, Musical. ly and Snapchat is 13. But, according to a report by the Children’s Commissioner, around 75% of 10 to 12 year olds have a social media account. The study makes sobering reading stating that children face a ‘cliff edge’ when it comes to using social media when they go to secondary school.

Getting comments and likes on their posts becomes a priority, especially when their whole class are now using mobile devices and have social media accounts. They become more concerned about how they look and feel anxious about staying connected at all times. FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) becomes much more prevalent.

Class WhatsApp groups and the like mean that whilst your child has their phone they are connected to their peers 24/7. This is the equivalent of having the “noise” of the playground with them at all times. It makes it impossible for children to leave behind the social interactions of the day, including any negative ones, and switch off emotionally. It means your child is at risk of being negatively impacted by any hurtful throwaway remarks or comments made by their peers which may not even have

Is it time to ban the Smart Phone?

Families Solent East talks to Howard Jones, Centre Director at I Love to Learn Professional Tutiton.

"They are being blamed for a decrease in child mental health, being banned from French schools and even making parents bond less with their children! Is it time to look at your child's mobile phone use?

Since the iPhone got into the hands of children from 2007 child metal health has taken a worrying turn. Children are going out less, spending less time with other children and more likely to report feelings of loneliness and depression.

Child psychologist Lynn Evans says "Something is clearly happening, 6 F amilies Solent East

been intended to be hurtful.

Social posts without accompanying tone, facial expression and gesture are more likely to be interpreted negatively or the meaning questioned than words delivered face to face. In short, you need to set limits on social interaction if your child is going to remain sane and grounded.

Here are some things to consider before your child becomes active on social media: Explore the privacy settings on all the apps your children will use and explain how they work. Make sure their accounts aren’t public and are only available to their friends.

Explain they should only friend or follow people they know on all their social media accounts.

Stress that it is crucial for them to tell you if someone they don’t know is trying to contact them. Explain not everyone is who they say they are online.

Remind them they can block people they don’t know or users who are giving them unwanted attention (including their peers).

There are many things your children should not see on the internet. Ensure your children feel comfortable talking about what they have seen online or things that have been sent to them.

Conversations need to be open and frank because sexual and violent content can only ever be a few clicks away.

Follow them or add them as a friend on your social accounts, so you can see what they are doing. Many parents make because I am seeing the evidence in the numbers of depressive, anorexic, cutting children who come to see me. And it always has something to do with the computer, the Internet and the smartphone.”

The good news is that that there is a lot we can do to reduce the harm done with having to completely remove phone or the internet from children's lives.

• Don't allow children to have private access to the internet:Keep the phone downstairs, check the history and discuss with your child.

• Get an app such as Screen Limit or Home Halo: This allows you to limit use and stay in control remotely.

• Make it conditional: If homework is not getting handed in or chores are not being done, the phone needs to

this a condition before allowing their child to have an app, especially if they are younger. If you are not on the social platform, explain that you will want access to their account to see what they are doing (actually follow through on this). Some people may feel this is an intrusion on their privacy, but my personal view is that young teenagers need some supervision.

Tell them not to share private information about themselves, like where they go to school or their address.

Remind them not to post, snap or chat about something that they don’t want to be shared or seen by a wider audience.

Remind them pictures can be captured by screenshot and shared with people they don’t know.

Tell them that bullying should not be tolerated in real life or cyberspace. If they are being bullied or see someone being bullied, tell them to tell a trusted adult.

Limit how long they can be online. Put the Wi-Fi on a timer or set a daily limit of time for how long they can be on their device.

As parents, we need to lead by example, so limit the time you spend on social platforms when you are with your child.

Accept that your child is bound to make some mistakes on social media. The key is to have an open dialogue with them about it so they can ask for advice if things go wrong and learn how to create healthy boundaries around their online activities.

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take a rest.

Help your kids find other ways to have fun.

Add tech-free time to your family’s schedule. At any age, kids should know there are specific times when screens stay off, like at meals and before bed.

Watch how often you use your own devices. If you keep your face buried in your phone, your kids won’t see a good reason why they should get off their screens."

Howard Jones is a Centre Director at I Love to Learn Professional Tuition. "We tutor children after-school in maths and English in our dedicated education centres in Portsmouth and Fareham." familiesonline.co.uk

Making the Best of Open Days This autumn, state and independent schools will be opening their doors to prospective pupils and their parents to give them a flavour of life at their school. Claire Winter has the lowdown on how to get the best out of these Open Days and tours.

What is an Open Day? School open days help you decide what school you want your child to go to. During an open day, prospective parents are shown around the school, often on a school day, to give them a flavour of the working life of the school and the school environment. You will be able to see the children in lesson and talk to the teachers and pupils.

Sometimes pupils are given the task of showing parents around the school. This is a great opportunity to ask them how they enjoy being at the school. How settled, relaxed and confident these children are can give you an idea of how happy the children are there. Usually, the head teacher or a senior member of staff also gives a talk which includes a general overview of the school and its values and ethos. This is often followed by a presentation by the head of admissions or the relevant head of the section of the school (for example, head of reception, or sixth form).

When Are They Held?

State schools generally hold Open Days in September and October aimed at children and families looking for a school place for the following year. It’s a good idea to start looking a year in advance. So if your child is starting school, start looking at schools when they are three. If you are looking for secondary school places, start looking in year 5 (when your child is nine or ten). You can then revisit the schools you are most interested in with your child the following year.

"It's a good idea to start looking a year in advance."

Independent schools often hold Open Days throughout the Autumn and Spring terms. They can have waiting lists for Reception-age children or require children to take a schoolspecific 7+ or 11+ exam to gain a place, so you need find out the criteria for entry to the school and visit well in advance.

How are Open Days Organised?

Schools organise Open Evenings as well as days to allow working parents to visit the school too. Some schools (mainly independent) hold Open Days on a Saturday. All schools put a lot of care and organisation into the events and they all want to show their school in the best light. However, there may be a lot of people attending so do be sure to turn up on time and follow the school’s directions during the event.

familiesonline.co.uk

Tips for Visiting an Open Day Take your child with you. There is no point in falling in love with a school only to find your child does not want to go there.

What is your general feeling about the school? Your gut reaction is very important. Do the pupils look happy and engaged?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Make sure you ask the pupils what they think of the school.

Don’t make decisions on individual teachers. They often move on and large departments have a variety of teachers that will rotate every year to teach your child a particular subject.

If your child has a particular interest in a subject, make sure you visit the department and look at the kind of work they will be doing.

What extra-curricular activities do they have? Are there clubs that will engage your child and allow them to pursue a broad range of interests?

While exam results aren’t everything, every parent wants their child to do well. Academic performance is a top priority for many families. It’s a good idea to see how the school is performing compared to other local schools, using exam league tables and Ofsted reports.

If, after the all your initial visits, you are still undecided, go back and visit the schools on your shortlist again during a normal working day.

"...don't be afraid to trust your instincts; you know your child..."

Finally, in making your decision, don’t be afraid to trust your instincts; you know your child and you are best placed to ascertain what is right for them. If your child is older, do take account of their preferences too and include them in the decision making process. The best decision will undoubtedly be the one you all agree on.

Families Solent East 7

Where girls do better In the heart of Southsea, Portsmouth High School has been educating girls since 1882 with an outstanding reputation for academic success. The school is part of the Girls’ Day School Trust family of schools, the leading provider of independent education for girls in the country.

Education and Early Years Special Open Morning

Saturday 6 October 9.00 to 12.30

Girls are at the centre of everything we do and their wellbeing is paramount. Our teachers have an unrivalled expertise in teaching girls enabling them to discover talents and reach their full potential. The school is consistently at the top of the examination league tables in the local area and offers an impressive co-curricular programme.

Prep and Pre-School Our Prep and Pre-School are set in wonderful grounds. Free wraparound care and an affordable fee structure make the school an ideal start for preparation for entry into Portsmouth High Senior School.

Senior School and Sixth Form Unrivalled opportunities and a continued focus on well-being enable our girls to achieve a firm foundation for academic excellence and personal success. Girls entering our Sixth Form leave us for highly respected university courses and go on to excel in a range of careers.

Visit us on our Open Morning on Saturday 6 October from 9.00am to 12.30. Join an animal adventure trail at the Prep and Pre-School and take part in exciting activities across all subjects at the Senior School and Sixth Form. Please register your interest and find out more at:

www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk

Where girls do better Pre-School Prep Senior Sixth

Sixth Form Open Evening Monday 8 October from 6.00 to 8.00pm – Come and find out more about opportunities in our highly successful Sixth Form. Talk to subject specialists and explore your options for the next exciting phase of your education. Find out more at www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk

Prep School Day & Boarding 8 -13 Years | Pre-Prep & Nursery 3 - 7 Years

023 9282 6714 admissions@por.gdst.net www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk Highfield and Brookham Schools Highfield & Brookham Schools are charming country Prep and Pre-prep schools offering an exceptional, all round educational experience for children aged 3 to 13. Set within 175 acres of stunning grounds on the borders of Surrey, Hampshire and West Sussex, the schools have a great balance of boys and girls, day and boarding.

Highfield enjoys outstanding academic success and has been preparing pupils for the top senior schools in England for more than a century. They have a flawless track record for securing every child’s place at their first choice senior school, and an excellent Scholarship success rate.

Above all, the pupils are happy and fulfilled. There are fields and woodlands to explore and build camps in, and trees to climb. It’s a place where children really can still be children.

Highfield’s next Open Day takes place on Saturday 6th October, 10am – 12 noon. To arrange a personal visit to Highfield and Brookham please call 01428 728000 or email headspa@highfieldschool.org.uk.

8 F amilies Solent East

A First-Rate Education ISI 2014

Highfield Open Morning Saturday 6th October 10am – 12 noon

Brookham Pre-Prep & Nursery Bespoke visits – please call to arrange

For more information please visit our website or call 01428 728000 www.highfieldschool.org.uk | Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7LQ

familiesonline.co.uk

Education and Early Years Special

Toddler Activity Afternoon Friday 12th October 1.30 - 3.30pm

Come and experience the fun we have at Little Oaks, the Oakwood School Nursery.

Take part in crafts, meet our rabbits, let your child have some fun in the garden and join in lots of activities in and around the nursery. Refreshments available.

G r ow i n

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C on f i d e

nce

01243 575209

The route to success

No booking required – all very welcome

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office@oakwoodschool.co.uk

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oakwoodschool.co.uk

| 10/08/2018 08:27

New Head Arrives at City School

This September Dr Anne Cotton is welcomed as the new Head of The Portsmouth Grammar School to lead the school in the next important stage of its development.

Anne comes to PGS from Magdalen College School, Oxford, one of the leading academic day schools in the country where she was Deputy Head (Education Development). She will become the first ever female Head of The Portsmouth Grammar School.

Little Oaks Nursery at Oakwood School, Chichester

“I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed as the next Head of the school,” said Dr Cotton. “The school’s commitment to happiness and success is one that I very much share, and it is a privilege to be invited to lead the school in the next phase of its development. I look forward to getting to know the school’s staff, parents, friends and alumni – and above all its pupils.”

Little Oaks Nursery at Oakwood School in Chichester, is holding a Toddler Activity Afternoon on Friday 12th October from 1.30 – 3.30pm. All are welcome and no booking is required.

You and your child will experience Little Oaks’ nurturing and happy atmosphere, enjoy fun craft activities and meet the school rabbits, Apple and Acorn. You will also be able to explore the Nursery’s beautiful environment.

Oakwood School is always happy to arrange tours of the Nursery and Kindergarten facilities.

Registrations are being taken now for September 2019 Reception starters. Registrations are also being taken for new starters in Years 1-6, although places for these are now very limited. familiesonline.co.uk

Families Solent East 9

Education and Early Years Special New research links curiosity levels in young children with later academic success Researchers from the University of Michigan assessed the reading and maths ability of 6,200 kindergarten children and found that the children of parents who reported their child’s behaviour as highly curious did the best at school, regardless of socioeconomic status. The results were consistent for both boys and girls.

Explore, Discover & Learn at Ryde School Ryde School is the independent day and boarding school on the Isle of Wight for boys and girls aged 2 1/2 to 18.

Beach and Forest School sessions have long been a part of the Junior School. Alongside the vibrant academic curriculum, children spend time immersed in nature, learning skills invaluable to their wider development, broadening their learning through discovery; building confidence and fostering their natural desire to learn and explore. Inter-schools maths challenges, explosive science sessions in the Senior and the Junior School Science Labs and fun, educational residential trips like a night in a museum or a trip to Salamanca help children ignite their passion for learning.

Linda Dennis, Head of the Junior School at Ryde, firmly believes that this igniting of children's excitement in learning is the way to ensure pupils and their teachers discover the pupils’ talents, enabling them to grow and enhance those talents, ready for Senior School and the wider world.

Team sports matches against other schools, on and off the Island and sailing competitions in the School’s own fleet of dinghies also embed the team spirit and healthy competition that are part of the Ryde School ethos.

Our next open morning is on Saturday 6 October 10.00am until 12.30pm. Come and join us for interesting activities, a tour of the school and a complimentary family lunch.

For more information please call 01983 617970 or email admissions@rydeschool.net

The children’s reading and maths scores were consistently better the more curious they were. That was true even when the students weren't very good at a self-control measure called "effortful control," which tracks how attentive and persistent students are when completing tasks. “Even if a child manifests low effortful control, higher curiosity may be associated with more optimal academic achievement,” the authors of the study wrote.

The study, published in the journal Pediatric Research said that that cultivating curiosity in children, especially in those from deprived backgrounds may be a valuable way of fostering academic achievement.

More info at www.nature.com

Students Thrive at St John’s College Located in the heart of Southsea, St John’s College is a day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2 to 18. We believe in giving every child the opportunity to fulfil their potential especially in their academic achievements. As a non-selective independent school, we develop talents and create confident young people for the future.

“Ultimately, parents want their children to live happy and fulfilled lives. St John’s College is an excellent starting point on that journey.” - current parent.

Why not come and visit us; simply telephone 023 9281 5118 or visit www.stjohnscollege.co.uk, to find out about our upcoming Open Events or to book a private tour to see for yourself why students thrive at St John’s College.

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Open Morning Saturday 6 October 9.30am - 12.30pm

Students thrive at St John’s College Grove Road South, Southsea, Hampshire, PO5 3QW

10 F amilies Solent East

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Education and Early Years Special

Mayfield is growing...

If you have a child in Year R, 3 or 7 in September 2019 and are considering joining Mayfield.

Please email our admissions team to book a tour:

admissions@mayfield.portsmouth.sch.uk Mayfield is growing!

Following the highly successful opening of Mayfield School’s Primary Section in 2014, the Governing Body of the School decided to open an additional class in Year 3. We are delighted to report that we have had over 140 applications for the 30 spaces available. Given this demand, we will continue to admit 30 extra pupils into Year 3 from now on. Any pupil currently in Year 2 can apply for a place. The school is running a number of open days for interested families to see the school in action! To book a visit, please contact the school on: admissions@mayfield.portsmouth.sch.uk Headteacher, Mr. David Jeapes said “we have been delighted to see how popular our Junior Section has become. In particular, the demand for Year 3 spaces has been fantastic. I am delighted that the Governing Body have decided to continue to offer additional places to children entering Year 3.”

Parents of current Year 4 and 2 pupils, Alexandra and Bella Firth said “Since joining Mayfield we have been delighted with the progress that our daughters have made. As an ‘all through’ school the transition each year is seamless and the girls have really enjoyed the extensive free extra-curricular clubs which have been offered.”

Head of Primary, Mr. Matt Stedman said “Throughout the year we will be running a number of admission events which any parent interested in joining Mayfield can attend. These will include a tour of the school and the chance to meet key staff members as well as visit classrooms in action! We look forward to welcoming lots of new families to the school and showing them the advantages of an ‘all through’ education.”

For more information about Mayfield. Please visit the school’s website:

www.mayfield.portsmouth.sch.uk

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Families Solent East 11

Local News Stagecoach Performing Arts Havant students take part in world record attempt Stagecoach Performing Arts Havant was part of an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the Largest Simultaneous Performance of One Show (multiple locations).

Forty-four students from Havant joined forces with almost 200 schools from around the UK and abroad to simultaneously perform Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Junior, as part of the 30th Anniversary celebrations for Stagecoach Performing Arts.

The performance took place at Purbrook Park School in front of the Mayor of Havant, Councillor Peter Wade, and his wife, Janet, who joined Lacy and Nikki Smith, owners of Sparkle Paws Parlour in Waterlooville, to act as World Record attempt Witnesses.

Photo: Mayor of Havant, Councillor Peter Wade, and his wife, Janet, with some of the students involved in the performance.

Chichester Festival Theatre's New Season Highlights There’s plenty of entertainment for families and youngsters from toddlers to teenagers at Chichester Festival Theatre in their new Winter season.

The latest programme includes a new adaptation of David Walliams’s biggest selling book, The Midnight Gang; Chichester Festival Youth Theatre’s mischievous version of Sleeping Beauty for Christmas; acclaimed productions of Julia Donaldson’s The Snail and The Whale and Rod Campbell’s Dear Santa; festive favourite The Nutcracker from Moscow City Ballet. There’s also a host of music to enjoy with the family. Don’t miss the BBC Concert Orchestra’s first family concert at CFT of an opera for babies, among much more.

As well as shows, the Theatre’s excellent Learning, Education and Participation team run a variety of free events and activities alongside very reasonably priced holiday activities, workshops and classes.

Find out what’s on at cft.org.uk or call 01243 781312 to request a brochure.

TRANSFORM Your Child’s Confidence in Maths!

Kit out the kids for a fraction of the cost at the NCT Fareham & District 'Nearly New' sale in Titchfield!

Mums and dads can kit out their children with virtually brand new clothes and equipment at a fraction of high street prices, thanks to the Fareham & District branch of the National Childbirth Trust (NCT).

Louise Lane, Treasurer of the Fareham & District branch of the NCT, explained: "Parents always want the best for their children but many of them simply cannot afford the latest 'must have' item on the market as well as all the everyday clothes an active child can get through. The cost of kitting out a child for the first five years can run to thousands of pounds. But on the other hand, parents don't want to dress their children in hand-me-downs.

Our Nearly New sales are the perfect solution - high street quality at knock-down prices."

NCT Nearly New sales give parents the chance to buy everyday necessities like vests, jeans and T-shirts for their children. They can also find items such as coats and clothing for special occasions, as well as toys and other accessories. The sale will take place on 6th October 2018 between 10.00 am and 11.30 at Titchfield Community Centre, Mill Lane, Titchfield. Priority entrance at 9.45am will be given to NCT members on production of a valid membership card. Sellers can register now by completing the registration form available on www.nct.org.uk/ node/156205 or www.nct.org.uk/branches/fareham or emailing NNS.FarehamAndDistrict@nct.org.uk or by calling 0844 243 6130.

12 F amilies Solent East

Caroline Cutress, a former Maths teacher, believes that it only takes a small amount of extra Maths practice at home to transform your child’s selfesteem.

You can TRANSFORM your child's confidence!

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Drawing on over 20 years teaching experience, much of which was gained in one of Hampshire’s most successful schools, Caroline devised ‘Maths Club by Post’ for 6-12 year-olds. Maths Club by Post delivers a fun workbook direct to your child’s letterbox.

Each month, members receive their packs which include puzzles, mazes, crosswords, colouring problems, codewords and games. Once completed, the workbooks can be returned to Caroline for marking by FREEPOST. For more information about Maths Club by Post, and to get your child’s FREE first workbook, visit mathsclubbypost.co.uk

If you've got some local news you'd like to share, drop me a line at caroline@ familiessolenteast.co.uk and see your story featured here! familiesonline.co.uk

Summer might be over but there's still plenty of opportunities out there for family fun this autumn!

Turn the page for Halloween ideas and the best spooktacular events in the area to make your October frighteningly fun...

Inspiring Experiences in the great outdoors Children aged from 8 to 17 can enjoy a range of holiday camps at Cobnor Activities Centre.

They offer both residential and non-residential camps: Multi-activity – where the young people get a chance to experience a taster of all the activities on offer at Cobnor - or concentrated sailing, working towards RYA certificates.

“Thank you for running such brilliant days for us. I can’t think of my best bit, as the whole day was just fantastic,” a quote from a happy participant.

All the courses can be booked online at www. cobnor.com and the website will give further information of which camp is the right one for your child.

Autumn family fun Children’s activities at Horizon Leisure Centres Horizon Leisure Centres have lots of activities for the whole family.

Public swimming and fun swim sessions are held across both Havant and Waterlooville. A new re-vamped inflatable session is running where kids can run, jump and dive on an inflatable assault course in either one of our main pools!

There are two fun themed indoor soft play centres for the kids to let off steam whilst you sit and relax!

World of Play, Waterlooville Leisure Centre, is a unique ‘around the world’ themed play centre where children can travel the world visiting different countries and learning fun facts. For the little ones, they can explore in the Australia themed toddler area.

Oceans of Play, Havant Leisure Centre, is an under the sea theme where children can jump aboard a ship and explore the ocean and all the creatures that live beneath. There’s an underwater submarine themed toddler area for the little ones to explore.

There are lots more activities for everyone to come along and get stuck into including Adventure Play, Gym Tots, Pre-School Bounce… the list is endless!

K

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Families Solent East 13

Looking for a spook-tastic Halloween event near you?

Look no further! And don't forget to check out our What's On pages for even more Halloween and half term events in the local area!

Haunting Halloween Half Term Fun at West Dean Gardens Join the spooky Halloween fun at West Dean Gardens near Chichester 24-28 October.

West Dean Gardens combines the great outdoors with fun children’s activities; it’s definitely worth a visit in October half term. Follow the Halloween Trail through the award-winning gardens answering the clues to complete the anagram. Children who complete the trail will get a mouth-watering Montezuma’s chocolate prize and there’s creepy craft activities for the kids to do afterwards.

Entry for children costs £5 and includes all the activities, adults cost normal gardens entry (£9). Come along 10.30am-5pm Wednesday-Friday or from 9am at the weekend. The Gardens Restaurant offers delicious freshly prepared breakfast (from 9am at weekends), lunches and afternoon tea. Children’s meals also available from £5.50.

Children’s Activities

at Horizon Leisure Centres

Swimming Inflatable Fun Sessions Adventure Play Toddler Groups Oceans of Play World of Play Teen Gym Workout Holiday Kids Club

Visit us today!

Book your Halloween tickets in advance at

www.westdeangardens.org.uk.

HALLOWEEN ACTIVITIES 24 – 28 October 2018

Wed – Fri 10.30am – 5pm, Sat & Sun 9am – 5pm (last entry 4.30pm)

www.horizonlc.com Waterlooville Leisure Centre 023 9224 5900 info@horizonlc.com Havant Leisure Centre

023 9247 6026

Charity No. 1060896

Hallowe'en at Stansted Park

26 - 28 October, 5.30 - 9pm

Three nights of fabulous family fun!

Now in its fifth year, Hallowe’en at Stansted Park is the family ‘go to’ for half-term fun. Grab a ticket for a chance to be part of the carnival atmosphere that envelopes the estate and join in the delightfully wicked festivities.

Visit West Dean Gardens for spooky fun this Halloween Hunt for the haunting letters on the Halloween trail and enjoy the creepy crafts. Complete the clues for a mouth-watering Montezuma’s chocolate prize.

Child £5 | Adult £9 (normal gardens entry)

www.westdeangardens.org.uk West Dean Gardens, West Dean, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0RX

This year the legend of Beauty and The Beast will be taking over Stansted House. Each room will display a part of the story with well-known characters waiting to greet you. Try navigating the Mysterious Maze at night, with bubbles, smoke and spooky figures - enter if you dare! The Stansted Park Light Railway Ghost Train will be running through the Arboretum in the misty darkness, watch out for spooks! (small extra charge applies) A variety of food and drink will be available throughout the event, including hotdogs, soups, toffee apples and popcorn, tea, coffee and soft drinks.

More information available at

www.stanstedpark.co.uk

14 F amilies Solent East

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   –

Happy Halloween at Paulton's Park!

Visit Paultons Park this autumn and enjoy more than 70 wonderful rides and attractions included in the admission price.

Happy Halloween returns this year and welcomes two spooktastic new attractions on selected dates throughout October. The Legend of Paultons Manor is a spook-tacular theatrical show that follows the exploits of the Spirit Squad with spectacular illusions and slapstick comedy. The Big Boo Barns offers ghoulishly delightful farmyard fun for the whole family with mysterious and entertaining treats including Cornelius Corn and Professor Pumpkin!

There is now even more fun over in Peppa Pig World with the addition of two enchanting new rides, The Queen’s Flying Coach Ride and Grampy Rabbit’s Sailing Club.

Don’t forget to visit Lost Kingdom, where dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes greet you at every turn. Take a Jurassic jeep expedition and ride two world class family coasters Flight of the Pterosaur and Velociraptor!

For opening times, prices and accessibility information please visit our website.

 - 

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        

Exciting new indoor golf at Chichester Golf Club!

NEW! If you have enjoyed playing on the outdoor Jungle Paradise Adventure Golf course then you are going to love our brand new indoor, 18-hole, ‘glow in the dark’ Ocean Paradise Adventure Golf course which opens in September! This exciting new indoor adventure golf course uses UV blacklight paint which glows in the dark to create an amazing experience and also incorporates sound, interactive holes and special effects!

Why not make a day of it as kids can bring along a carved pumpkin this half term and experience both courses for the price of one! That’s effectively 18 holes of adventure golf FREE OF CHARGE! Every carved pumpkin will also be entered into our ‘best’ pumpkin competition and there will be a special prize for the winner.

On Friday 26th October at 5pm, the kids can take part in our fun fancy dress competition being held in the Jungle Java Cafe. Prizes will be on offer for the best Halloween costumes and there will also be some tasty treats on offer in the café too. All the pumpkins that have been brought in during the week will also be lit up just before dusk at 5.30pm.

Both courses will be open from 9am during half term and the last tee time to play the outdoor Jungle Paradise adventure golf will be 4.45pm. The new indoor, glow in the dark, Ocean Paradise Adventure Golf course is open until late so please check our website for timings at www.chichestergolf.com or give us a call on 01243 536666. So what are you waiting for – get carving and we’ll see you in October!

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costume exhibition that familiesonline.co.uk travels through the ages from Jason and the Argonauts to Saturday Night Fever. With expert guides on hand, you will be able to walk amongst some of our more famous costumes seen on TV and in Film and Theatre; from a dress worn by Golden Globe Winning actresses to costume used in BBC's Titanic. Learn about the history and explore the art of costume with activities including demonstrations on how to put on an Elizabethan Dress.

1pm - 4pm. Free event.

8 , 15, 22 and 29 September and 6, 13, and 22-28 October Make & Take LEGO Activities

We’ve scoured the area for local family events this September and October! We take great care in compiling our events guide, but please contact venues before you leave home as things can change.

Until 30 September Petworth Incredible Inventions trail Petworth House and Park - National Trust, Petworth Park, Petworth, West Sussex, GU28 0AE, 01798 342207 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events Follow in the footsteps of Elizabeth Ilive and become an inventor extraordinaire.

Using clues around the Pleasure Grounds create an ingenious tool and claim your prize. £3 per trail, plus normal admission charges.

Until 31 October Tennis for Kids Portsmouth Tennis Centre, Portsmouth, PO2 9AD. www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/ tennisforkids If you're looking for a great activity for your kids, look no further! This year, lessons are open to kids aged between 4 and 11, and will be available all year round. For just £25 every child will receive 6 high - quality lessons, developed by experts at the LTA, as well as a special Tennis for Kids Babolat racket, ball set, and personalised T-shirt delivered right to their door.

Until 31 October Bricks Britannia LEGO® Exhibition The Novium Museum, Tower Street, Chichester, PO19 1QH. www. thenovium.org/britannia Bricks Britannia is an exciting interactive LEGO® brick exhibition at The Novium 16 F amilies Solent East

Museum in Chichester, featuring the History of Britain. The free entry exhibition features more than 30 stunning models built by Bright Bricks, taking visitors through a journey of iconic moments in British history from the Stone Age through to the 21st Century. Running alongside the exhibition will be an interactive play zone with a LEGO and DUPLO brick area, plus lots more. Charges apply for some additional activities and booking is recommended.

2-30 September South Downs Planetarium Autumn Shows Southdowns Planetarium, Kingsham Farm, Kingsham Road, Chichester, PO19 8RP. 01243 774 400. www.southdowns. org.uk Journey to the stars this autumn with South Downs Planetarium.

The South Downs Planetarium in Chichester is an exciting place for people of all ages to visit. The autumn season shows are as follows: Sunday 2 September, 3.30pm - One Small Step for Major Tim, A Giant Leap Towards Mars Monday 3 September, 3.30pm - All Aboard! A Tour of the Planets Friday 14 September, 7.30pm - The Northern Lights Sunday 23 September, 3.30pm - Shine On Harvest Moon Friday 28 September, 7.30pm - Autumn Stars, Moon and Planets Sunday 30 September, 3.30pm - The Northern Lights

It is always advisable to book tickets in advance, as some shows sell out quickly.

6 and 9 September Heritage Open Day @ The Brickworks Museum Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum, Swanwick Lane Swanwick, SO31 7HB. 01489 576248. bursledonbrickworks.org.uk A chance to see the museum for FREE! Open as part of Heritage Open Days to help everyone get close to our amazing heritage. 11am to 4pm.

7 September Totally T-shirts Pallant House Gallery, 9 North Pallant, Chichester, PO19 1TJ. 01243 774557 pallant.org.uk/events/allevents/2018/september-2018/0-4years-totally-t-shirts FREE hands-on creative workshops designed to encourage children aged 0–4 years to discover, play and explore with different materials. Create your alternative-ego t-shirt by transferring images to decorate your own t-shirt to show your new character. Sessions at 10.15am - 11am and 11.30am - 12.15pm.

Children must be accompanied by a parent /carer who is willing to create and make. In order to ensure everyone has the chance to attend, spaces are limited to one session per child, per day. Book in advance on the number listed here.

7 September Costume Exhibition Groundlings Theatre, 42 Kent Road, Portsmouth, PO1 3BS. 023 9273 7370. www.groundlings.co.uk Drop in to Groundling's for an immersive

The Novium Museum, Tower Street, Chichester, PO19 1QH. www. thenovium.org/article/30265/Make&-Take-Sessions Bricks Britannia is an exciting interactive LEGO® brick exhibition at The Novium Museum in Chichester, featuring the History of Britain.Running alongside the exhibition will be bespoke Make and Take sessions where children will have the opportunity to make their own LEGO brick model to take home. Choose from a train, a bird or a unicorn! Sessions available on selected dates. Booking in advance is recommended. Various time slots available. £6.50 per child.

8-9 September Eastney Beam Engine House Open Day Eastney Beam Engine House, Henderson Road, Portsmouth, PO4 9JF. 023 92 827261.

View a pair of classic Boulton and Watt beam engines and pumps at this special open day. Eastney Beam Engine House is an impressive Victorian building containing a pair of classic Boulton Watt beam engines and pumps restored to their original 1887 condition. Please note there is restricted access and the engines will not be in steam.

9 September Port Solent Waterside Market Port Solent, The Boardwalk, Cosham, PO6 4TP. 02392 210606. www.portsolent.com/events/ sunday-waterside-market-10 Head to Port Solent for an enjoyable saunter through stalls of beautiful home furnishings, stylish gifts, homemade crafts, stunning jewellery, delicious cakes and other yummy treats. Plus, with free parking you can afford to stay all day and make a day of it!

12-16 September Awful Auntie familiesonline.co.uk

ROMAN ARMY WEEK

Kings Theatre, Albert Road, Southsea, PO5 2QJ. 023 9282 8282. www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk/whatson/family/awful-auntie/ From the award-winning producers of Gangsta Granny comes the world premiere of David Walliams’ amazing tale of frights, fights and friendship, featuring a very large owl, a very small ghost and a very awful Auntie! Ticket prices vary, see website for details.

13, 20, 27 September Family Friendly Foyle Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester,PO19 6AP. 01243 781312. www.cft.org.uk Join us in our family friendly space in the Festival Theatre’s Foyle Terrace. Children can play with our toys and fancy dress, enjoy a spot of colouring-in or enjoy some quiet time in our reading nook. Grown-ups can enjoy barista coffees, delicious cakes and sandwiches; healthy snacks, small sandwiches and drinks are available for little ones. 10am - 12pm. FREE.

14 September HODs The 1950s Housewife Drop In SEARCH, 50 Clarence Road, Gosport, PO12 1BU. Explore the 1950s house and meet our housewife as she battles the mangle and other household chores. Visit the corner shop, have a look through our 1950s wardrobe and handle our 1950s household object collection. Have a chat with our volunteers and reminisce. Just drop in, no need to book. Part of Heritage Open Days. 10.30am.

15 September Songwriting for Everyone Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester,PO19 6AP. 01243 781312. www.cft.org.uk Ever tried your hand at songwriting? Join composer and lyricist Richard Taylor for some tips on composition. All are welcome, no experience necessary. 11am.

Age 7+. TICKETS £5

15 September Extraordinary Women at Petersfield Museum

Fishbourne Roman Army

Petersfield Museum, St Peters Road, Petersfield, GU32 3HU. www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk/ whats-on/extraordinary-womenfree-saturday Petersfield Museum are celebrating 100 years of women first getting the vote with a free Saturday event.

Between 10.30am and 12.30pm you can meet the museum's very own Suffragette and learn more about how women won the right to vote. There will also be the opportunity to design your own suffrage banner and pin badge! Between 2pm and 3pm you can discover more about the inspirational women who have called Petersfield home over the years with our afternoon of interesting short talks.

15 September Folk in the Forest The Sustainability Centre, Droxford Road, East Meon, GU32 1HR. www.sustainability-centre.org/ folkintheforest.html Enjoy a family friendly festival at The Sustainability Centre. Folk in the Forest will be a day of folk musicians, organic food, outdoor exploration and family activities from face painting to story telling. There will also be treasure hunts and giant bubbles! 11am – 5pm (Doors open 10.30am).

16 September Fratton Family Festival Fratton Road, Fratton, Portsmouth, PO1 5AB. www.facebook.com/ events/1317607725016402 Celebrate the last days of summer in South Fratton Road (closed off for the day from above Lucknow Street and below Garnier Street). There will be various performance spaces, with line-ups to be announced. Please note - alcohol will be restricted to the local pubs, not on the streets. 10am - 4:30pm.

22 September Charmed Life Festival Portsmouth Victoria Park, Portsmouth, PO1 3QL. www.charmedlifefestival.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Mon 22nd - Fri 26th October 10am - 4pm Come along and join the

and earn a day’s pay!

PO19 3QR 01243 785859

www.sussexpast.co.uk

Join the Fishbourne Roman Army this half-term!

Get an army “tattoo”, try your hand at spear practice and see if you can earn your keep as a new recruit during Roman Army Week at Fishbourne Roman Palace this Half Term (22nd – 26th October) Sign up with the recruitment officer and learn to write your name in Latin before completing a range of tasks to “earn” a day’s pay. Other activities include archery, sword practice and dressing-up Roman-style. Once you have completed the activities, return to the recruitment officer, to receive a certificate and a (replica) Roman coin as your first day’s pay!

Charmed Life Festival is a family-friendly event with fantastic live music across two stages, plus plenty of laughs from the comedy tent, and a Kids Corner with fun fair, face painting, soft play and more. Highlights for the kids include an appearance from Andy Day from CBeebies and his band Andy and the Odd Socks.

11:30am - 11:30pm. Adult £20. Child over 10 £10. Child 0-9 £2.50. Early-bird tickets also available.

22 September 999 Day - Car Meet Special

Southbourne, PO10 8EZ. 01243 377780. www.tuppennybarn. co.uk/?event=family-beeday&event_date=2018-09-23 Come and explore Tuppenny Barn's very own beehives and find out what it takes to keep hives of your own. Expert advice will be given by the resident beekeeper and there will be activities for adults and children to take part in. £4.00. 2-5pm.

29 September Rural Life Weekend

Port Solent, The Boardwalk, Cosham, PO6 4TP. www.portsolent.com/events/999day-car-meet-special-0

Weald & Downland Living Museum, Chichester, PO18 0EU. 01243 811363. www.wealddown.co.uk/events/ rural-life-weekend-home

Fun for all the family at Port Solent's 999 Car Meet. There will be an exciting array of vintage, American and British police cars, fire engines and ambulances on display for visitors to explore and enjoy. Drop in and learn all about these impressive service motors, from 11am - 4pm, alongside the waterfront marina.

With exhibit homes at the Museum spanning rural life in south east England from 950AD to the Victorian era, visitors can enjoy a special weekend of fascinating talks and demonstrations about domestic life through the ages.

10:30am - 5:30pm. Normal admission charges apply.

23 September Family Bee Day

29 September and 20 October Southsea Wildlife Watch

Tuppenny Barn, Main Road,

Families Solent East 17

What's on

Portsmouth Natural History Museum, Cumberland House, Eastern Parade, Portsmouth, PO4 9RF. 023 9281 5276 www.hiwwt.org.uk

Join the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust’s monthly nature group for children at Cumberland House Natural History Museum. Although the sessions start inside the museum, please come dressed to be outside. Adults are encouraged to join in with the activities.

Suitable for ages 5-12. There is no need to book, though places will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. 10am – 12noon.

29-30 September and 27-28 October Petworth House Costumed Encounters Petworth House and Park, Petworth, GU28 9LR. 01798 342207. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/petworthhouse-and-park Go ‘below stairs’ in the early 1800s and learn more about Georgian servant life from the costume interpretation team.

Normal admission applies.

29 September Portsmouth Grammar School Open Day The Portsmouth Grammar School, High Street, Old Portsmouth, PO1 2LN. 02392 360036 www.pgs.org.uk/admissions/opendays Find out what Portsmouth Grammar School has to offer at their autumn open day. The whole school Open Morning is from 09:30, there is no need to book for this event. The autumn Senior School and Sixth Form Open Events are on 11 October at 2pm and 8 November at 2pm.

If you would like to attend or arrange a visit to the Senior School or Sixth Form at another time please contact Mrs Collette Newton on 023 9236 4244.

30 September Haust Autumn Celebration Butser Ancient Farm, Chalton Lane, Chalton, PO8 0BG. 02392 598838. www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/ haust-autumn-celebration Mark the changing of the seasons from summer to autumn. There’ll be craft and woodworking demonstrations, hands on activities and ancient skills to prepare for the coming winter months and celebrate the beauty of the autumn. Standard entrance prices apply.

6 October Fareham and District NCT Nearly New Sale 18 F amilies Solent East

Titchfield Community Centre, Mill Street, Titchfield, PO14 4AB. 10am-11.30am. Quality second hand clothes, toys and equipment for babies and children. Priority entrance at 9.45am to NCT members on production of valid membership card.

6 October – 5 November Happy Halloween at Paultons Park Paultons Park, Ower, Romsey, SO51 6AL. 02380 814442. www. paultonspark.co.uk The friendliest, most frightful fun fest in the UK! With over 2000 pumpkins, ghostly scenes, spooky meet and greets, Freaky Fancy Dress competition, the thrilling Little Monsters Ball finale to finish each day and Paultons fun rides and attractions!

Happy Halloween at Paultons Park now has even more spooky fun to enjoy with a spook-tacular new show and a comically frightful walk-through experience. Plus you can enjoy some spooky fun at the Big BOO Barn!

Families of all ages will love the fun scenes and mysterious happenings as they make their way around the ghoulishly delightful farmyard barn!

Shows from 20 to 31 October only.

6-7 October Autumn Countryside Show Weald & Downland Living Museum, Chichester, PO18 0EU. 01243 811363. www.wealddown.co.uk/events/ autumn-countryside-show/ Experience the sights and sounds of the countryside, and celebrate the end of the harvest at this wonderful seasonal show! The popular seasonal show features traditional working demonstrations – including heavy horses and vintage tractors ploughing – steam-powered threshing, plus a Horticultural Show, woodland and rural craft demonstrations, displays and competitions. 10:30am - 5pm.

Normal admission charges apply.

6-7 October Fun Palaces Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester, PO19 6AP. 01243 781312. www.cft.org.uk/whats-on/event/ fun-palaces Join this FREE nationwide celebration of creativity, with the local community right at its centre. Help Chichester Festival Theatre create their own Fun Palace for one extraordinary weekend!

There will be plenty of opportunities to get creative with family friendly practical workshops, performances, tours and more.

6 October Portsmouth High School Open Morning

Funtington Road, East Ashling, Chichester, PO18 9AN. 01243 575209. www.oakwoodschool.co.uk

Portsmouth High School, 36 Kent Road, Southsea, PO5 3ES. 02392 824916 www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk/openday

You and your child will experience Little Oaks’ nurturing and happy atmosphere, enjoy fun craft activities and meet the school rabbits, Apple and Acorn. You will also be able explore the Nursery’s beautiful environment.

1.30pm-3.30pm. Everyone welcome, no booking required.

Visit Portsmouth High School and find out why girls do better, at their autumn open morning. At the Prep and Pre-School visitors can join an animal adventure trail and meet farm animals visiting for the day. There will be fun and challenging activities suitable for girls from Pre-School to age 11 years. The Headmaster of the Prep School, Mr Paul Marshallsay, and staff will be available to talk to parents throughout the morning. Starts at 9am, see the website for more details.

6 October Highfield Open Day Highfield and Brookham School, Highfield Lane, Liphook, GU30 7LQ. www.highfieldschool.org.uk See what Highfield School can offer your child. 10am – 12 noon. To arrange a personal visit to Highfield and Brookham please call 01428 728000 or email headspa@highfieldschool.org.uk.

6 October St John's College Open Morning St John's College, Grove Road South, Southsea, PO5 3QW. 02392 815118. www.stjohnscollege.co.uk/ Joomla_30/index.php/openmornings Join in to hear from the Headmaster, Mr Tim Bayley, and take a student led tour around the campus. Nursery, Junior and Senior teaching staff will be present to answer any questions . You can also meet the Sixth Form team in Oaklands and join the House Parents for coffee and a tour of our Boarding Houses; plus, there will be lots of activities for all the family to enjoy.

9.30am - 12.30pm.

6 October Ryde School Open Morning Queen's Road, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 3BE. 01983 562229. www.rydeschool.org.uk/Open-Daysand-Visits Experience the wonderful atmosphere of Ryde School first hand at their Whole School Open Morning. 10am - 12.30pm.

Complimentary family lunch will be provided.

12 October Toddler Activity Afternoon Oakwood Preparatory School,

13 October – 3 November The Midnight Gang Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester, PO19 6AP. www.cft.org.uk/whats-on/event/ the-midnight-gang This inventive tale of fun, friendship and the importance of kindness is adapted from David Walliams’s biggest selling children’s book of 2016. This new stage version is by Bryony Lavery, with music and lyrics by renowned musician and composer Joe Stilgoe.

See website for ticket details.

14 October Tuppenny Apple Afternoon Tuppenny Barn, Main Road, Southbourne, PO10 8EZ. 01243 377780 www.tuppennybarn. co.uk/?event=tuppenny-appleafternoon&event_date=201810-14 A fun-filled day for the whole family.

Explore Tuppenny Barn's heritage orchard and learn about the different varieties of apples grown on site.

There will be a number of activities for both young and old including apple pressing. Starts at 2pm.

19 October Samhain Festival Butser Ancient Farm, Chalton Lane, Chalton, PO8 0BG. 02392 598838. www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/ samhain-festival/ Join the team at Butser to celebrate the evening of Samhain in the magical surroundings of the Great Roundhouse.

Between 7-10pm you will enjoy live music, professional storytelling by Jonathon Huet of Walk with Trees, and a bar with local ales. Tickets £15 per head.

20-28 October Totally Tudor – Men of War Mary Rose Museum, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Main Road, Portsmouth, PO1 3PY. www.maryrose.org/ events/2018/10/20/totally-tudor/ familiesonline.co.uk

MORE

22-26 October Halloween Half-Term Activities Weald & Downland Living Museum, Chichester, PO18 0EU. 01243 811363 www.wealddown.co.uk/events/ autumn-half-term-family-activities/

Discover more about the fighting skills of the men of Mary Rose. With craft activities, talks and demonstrations, there's something for everybody at the Mary Rose this October half term!

Free to Mary Rose ticket holders, craft activities £2 per child. 11am – 4pm.

20-28 October The Fort and the Great War Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill Road, Fareham, PO17 6AN. www.royalarmouries.org/event/ the-fort-the-great-war.

Step back in time to 1915 and follow the ‘ghosts’ from Fort Nelson’s past as they re-create scenes depicting the Fort’s role as a training and transit camp in the Great War. Join in a variety of activities, learn marching drills and how to fight with rifle and bayonet.

20-28 October Pirate Tales Spinnaker Tower, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, PO1 3TT. 023 9285 7520. www.spinnakertower.co.uk/ events/event/pirate-tales-halfterm/ Shiver me timbers! This October half term, Emirates Spinnaker Tower will be awash with Pirates. Grab yourself a treasure map and follow the trail to find the riches hidden somewhere in the Tower!

21 October Halloween Steam Up @ The Brickworks Museum Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum, Swanwick Lane, Swanwick, SO31 7HB. 01489 576248.www. bursledonbrickworks.org.uk Lots of activities for children plus additional specials including Halloween activities, craft stalls, cafe and live music. 11am to 4pm. Adults £7; Concessions £6; Children £4; Families £18.

familiesonline.co.uk

Enjoy the great outdoors this autumn halfterm at the Museum, with fantastic family activities taking place. Children can take part in a range of hands-on activities and outdoor trails with a Halloween theme.

11am – 3pm. Normal admission charges apply.

22-26 October Roman Army Week at Fishbourne Roman Palace Fishbourne Roman Palace, Salthill Road, Fishbourne, PO19 3QR. www.sussexpast.co.uk/event/romanarmy-week-8 Sign up with the Fishbourne Roman Army recruitment officer and write your name in Latin before completing a range of tasks to ‘earn’ a day's pay! Parade around the formal gardens of the Palace, after ‘sword’ and ‘spear’ practise. Learn about the medicines used 2,000 years ago and see how soldiers relaxed by playing board games. 10am - 4pm. Normal admission charges apply.

22-26 October Creepy Crafts Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill Road, Fareham, PO17 6AN. www.royalarmouries.org/event/ creepy-crafts/ The Fort is a great place to explore at Halloween with its spooky tunnels and underground chambers, and when you’ve had enough half-term adventures come and have a go at some crazy creepy crafts. Suitable for 3-12 years. £3 per child.

10.30am – 3.30pm.

23 October Halloween Disco Party Port Solent, The Boardwalk, Cosham, PO6 4TP. www.portsolent.com/events/ halloween-disco-party Spooky Halloween fun at Port Solent. Join Justin for a frighteningly-fun Halloween disco with lots of dancing and party games! Session times will start at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

24 October The Selfish Giant

of the classic tale brought to life for ages 3-7 and their families, re-imagined for the stage with a recipe of original live music, colour, magic, puppets and adventure.

Performances at 1.30pm and 3.30pm.

Running time 1 hour.

24 October Spooky Storytelling Butser Ancient Farm, Chalton Lane, Chalton, PO8 0BG. 02392 598838. www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/494069 Join in the fun in the great roundhouse for an afternoon of storytelling with Fayebles!

There'll also be a special family trail around the farm. Please note that although underfives are free you should still book a ticket for them. Find out more on the link above.

26-27 October Halloween at Explosion Explosion! The Museum of Naval Firepower, Heritage Way Priddy's Hard, Gosport, PO12 4LE. 02392 505600. www.nmrn.org.uk/halloween Get ready for an explosive Halloween!

Calling all witches and wizards! Come along to Priddy's School of Magic and meet the magical professors, learn spells, make your own broomstick and even decorate a dragon egg! 10am – 5pm.

26 - 28 October Hallowe'en at Stansted Park Stansted House and Park, Rowalnds Castle, Hampshire, PO9 6DX www.stanstedpark.co.uk Three nights of fabulous family fun! Step in to the enchanted mansion and become part of the magical legend of Beauty and the Beast. The house will be transformed into a fairy-tale, and you can explore the mysterious maze and take a ride on a ghost train - if you dare! See the website for further details.

Chichester, PO20 1AX. 01243 533833 www.chichestergolf. com/adventure-golf/

ONLINE familiesonline.co.uk

Halloween fun at Chichester Golf Club! Take part in a fun fancy dress competition being held in the Jungle Java Café at 5pm. Prizes will be on offer for the best Halloween costumes.

All the pumpkins that have been brought in during the week will also be lit up just before dusk at 5.30pm.

27 October Fright Night at Funland Funland, The Seafront, Hayling Island, PO11 0AG. 02392 462820 funland.info/special-events/ Funland gets frightening! Enjoy a frightful night at the fair including a spooktacular firework display and prizes for the best dressed boy and girl.

5pm – 9pm.

28 October Theseus and the Monsters Groundlings Theatre, 42 Kent Road, Portsmouth, PO1 3BS. 02392 737370 www.groundlings.co.uk Fun, family performance at Groundlings. Join Theseus on his quest for mythical monsters, magical moments and plenty of merriment!

Meet the cast workshop with photo opportunity. Running time 60 minutes.

See website for timings and ticket details.

28 October Olaf The Horrible Groundlings Theatre, 42 Kent Road, Portsmouth, PO1 3BS. 02392 737370 www.groundlings.co.uk

26 October Morgan and West More Magic for Kids

It's a hard life being 'orrible, said Olaf!

Fantastic family fun with this Viking tale, which will have children crying out for more! Directed by Richard Stride. See website for timings and ticket details.

The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre, 56 East Street, Havant, PO9 1BS. thespring.co.uk/whats-on/family/ morgan-and-west-more-magic-forkids/

31 October Family Friendly Haunted Halloween Ghost Tours

Time-travelling magicians Morgan & West come to The Spring in half term with a marvellous magic show full of crazy capers for the young, old, and everyone in-between. Recommended for ages 5+.

Running time: 1 hour

New Theatre Royal, 20-24 Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth, PO1 2DD. www.newtheatreroyal.com/ performances/the-selfish-giant/

26 October Halloween Fancy Dress and Pumpkin Lighting

The Selfish Giant is a brand new adaptation

Chichester Golf Club, Hunston,

Groundlings Theatre, 42 Kent Road, Portsmouth, PO1 3BS. 02392 737370. www.groundlings.co.uk Journey through the haunted Georgian class rooms to the ghosts that haunt the theatre and the secret passages and hidden doors will appear from nowhere. Family friendly tours at 7.00pm, .20pm, 7.40pm and 8.00pm.

Families Solent East 19

OPEN DAYS & DISCOVERY SESSIONS Independent day & boarding school for boys and girls aged 2 ½ to 18

JUNIOR SCHOOL EXPLORATION & DISCOVERY SESSIONS Saturday 29 September and Saturday 17 November 10.00am to 12.00 noon OPEN MORNING Saturday 6 October 10.00am to 12.30pm School tours, interesting activities and a complimentary family lunch

FOR MORE INFORMATION Call +44 (0)1983 617970 or visit www.rydeschool.org.uk/open-days-and-visits

Isle of Wight