Families Warwickshire May-June 2017 Issue 35

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May/June 2017 Issue 35

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warwickshire

The essential local magazine for parents www.familiesonline.co.uk

Why not be a school governor?

School governors work with the school’s senior leadership team to set strategic direction, monitor school performance and ensure the school’s budget is well spent.

The governing board ensures that their school provides the best possible education for their pupils.

You don’t have to be a parent to apply, and schools are looking for skilled volunteers from all backgrounds.

You can make a difference to your community by becoming a school governor!

www.warwickshire.gov.uk

How do I find out more about it?

If you are interested and would like more information please contact Governor Services: T: 01926 741512 E: governors@warwickshire.gov.uk W: www.warwickshire.gov.uk

Tel: 01926 745120

Warwickshire Governor Services are looking for dedicated, conscientious and organised people to join their Clerking Service

Do you have the skills we are looking for?

As well as providing administrative support to the governors, governing board and its committees, a clerk is crucial to the smooth running of the work of the governing board.

Are You: • an experienced administrator • IT literate • well organised • a good communicator • able to take accurate minutes at meetings • able to maintain impartiality and handle confidential matters • reliable and have a flexible approach

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The posts are part-time positions and hours are mainly evenings worked during term-time.

Training, support and professional development will be provided by Warwickshire Governor Services.

To find out more: If you are interested and would like more information please contact Governor Services: T: 01926 745120 E: governors@warwickshire.gov.uk W: www.warwickshire.gov.uk

editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk T: 01926 335004

Issue 35 | May/June 2017 | Families Warwickshire

In this issue

3 5 Parties 6 Education Snippets

9 Holiday Clubs w Clubs & Classes e What's on

Contact details Call: Claire Jones on 01926 335004 E: editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk Cover by Linda Scannell www.lindascannell.com Design by www.peninsula-design.co.uk All content ©2017 Families Warwickshire Families Warwickshire is a bi-monthly magazine for parents, covering Stratford-on-Avon and Warwick Districts with 21,500 copies. Towns covered include Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick, Leamington Spa and Kenilworth, plus Studley, Alcester, Bidford, Henley-in-Arden, Wellesbourne, Welfordon-Avon, Shipston-on-Stour, Southam and lots of the smaller villages in between.

Advertise with us and reach 40,000+ local parents and carers Next issue: July/August 2017 Deadline: Friday 9th June

Snippets

Discounted Baby Show tickets The Baby Show with MadeForMums, the UK’s leading pregnancy and parenting event, will be returning to the NEC in Birmingham from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st May. The show is a great way to get hands-on with products and try before you buy. There will be over 200 exhibitors showcasing an array of baby essentials, including leading names such as Mothercare, Babies R Us, iCandy, Nuby, Baby Björn, Britax and Chicco’s as well as independent brands that you won’t find on the high street. Don’t miss the UK’s top baby experts sharing their top tips on birthing, breastfeeding and sleep.

It’s a family friendly day out with free nappies at the Aldi Mamia Changing Area and free food in the Tommee Tippee Feeding Area. There’s also entertainment for the little ones at the Drive & Go with Peg Perego!

Families Warwickshire have teamed up with The Baby Show to offer readers a discount of 40% off - £11.95 (FRI)/£12.95 (SAT/SUN). Input the code FAMILIESNEC when buying tickets at www.thebabyshow.co.uk

Families Warwickshire 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, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Warwickshire are fully protected by copyright and none 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.

Pupdate Spring is here and summer’s hopefully not too far away. The parks, fields and country paths are drying out nicely and not the quagmires we’ve had to endure over the winter months. We’ve had a few warmer days and I’m sure Eddie was grateful to have had his first proper full cut. He went from looking like a totally scruffy pup to a rather distinguished and grown up young dog – at least he did until our next trip to the park! We’re looking forward to starting a Puppy Follow On class soon which should cover ‘a little more self-control and focus, some play manners and a bit of fun’. Let’s hope he behaves!

Claire Jones, Editor

PetStay

Warwickshire Branch

“We Love Dogs here at PetStay”

Providing a loving, safe Home Dog Boarding service for your dog whilst you are away.

Fully Licensed and Insured www.petstay.net

01789 608021

More Loving Dog Carers Wanted!

Guide Dogs Fun Day Saturday 8th July, 11am-4pm Guide Dog Training School Warwick New Road, Leamington Spa CV32 6AH

n Children’s activities n Dog agility n Police dog displays n Guide dog displays

n Music n Tea room & BBQ n Stalls n Plus lots more

coventry@guidedogs.org.uk or call 0345 1430 201 Apologies no pet dogs allowed on site

Supported by

Parking at Warwickshire College CV32 5JE A charity registered in England and Wales (209617) and Scotland (SC038979). 9238 04/17

@familieswarks

familieswarwickshire

www.familiesonline.co.uk

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Snippets

Your local divorce & family law specialists Caring, confidential legal advice 3 Divorce and separation 3 Getting a fair financial settlement 3 Issues concerning children when separating 3 Legal arrangements before you marry or live together

FREE telephone appointment Call Warwickshire based divorce & family lawyer Alison Ratchford on 01789 336405 or email Alison.Ratchford@family-lawfirm.co.uk

Local meetings arranged at a time and place to suit you www.family-lawfirm.co.uk 6 FREE downloadable guides available on our website Woolley & Co is a member of the Law Society and authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

Head office: Warwick Enterprise Park, Wellesbourne, Warwick, CV35 9EF

Could you be a School Governor?

W&Co_87x130PR_AlisonRatchford.indd 1

06/09/2016 13:21

Across Warwickshire there are approximately 2098 school/academy governors helping to support school leadership teams. Governors make an important contribution within their school’s local community whilst also playing an integral role in shaping the future for Warwickshire’s children.

Governors in Warwickshire provide their time to help the school on a voluntary basis and come from all walks of life and sections of the community. Almost anyone can serve as a Governor including: • Parents • School staff • Business or local community representatives All you need is a commitment to help the school and its children and a willingness to offer time, energy and knowledge.

Being a school governor is demanding but rewarding and a good way of putting something back into the local community. You don't have to be a parent of a child at the school, but if you are you can also know that you are having a direct influence on the quality of your child's education.

If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a governor and what it involves please contact Warwickshire Governor Services on 01926 745120 or email governors@warwickshire.gov.uk.

My relationship has broken down? What do I do now?

The breakdown of a relationship or marriage is not easy for anyone to deal with.

Emotions are at their highest and a dollop of heartache, oodles of loss and heaps of fear for the future is an unpleasant mixture!

‘What do I do now?’ is often the first question on most people’s minds. The answer is, nothing too hasty. There is no doubt that life is about to change and serious decisions do have to be made but this does not have to happen overnight. One of the most important things to remember is that you need time to come to terms with what is happening and you should not take major steps - for example, putting the house on the market - until you are both calm and in the right frame of mind to discuss such matters.

Give consideration to your children

One of the first things to consider, if you are a parent, is your children and how best to break the news to them. Ideally, this should be done together, in an age appropriate way. They need to understand that they are still loved by you both, they will be kept safe and secure and that they have nothing to worry about.

You are separating or divorcing each other, not your children.

Take steps to reduce the fear of the unknown

Talking to a solicitor at an early stage just to understand what steps you should or shouldn’t be taking is also something I would advise. By this I don’t mean that if your marriage falls apart on Friday, you should be speaking to a solicitor to start divorce proceedings by Monday. Not at all. I am suggesting an initial discussion so that you can understand what sorts of things you need to calmly think about and what steps you should consider carefully before taking.

Fear of the unknown is possibly the worst type of fear and I find that many people are frightened because they just don’t know what is likely to happen.

Talking to an experienced family solicitor at an early stage can allay some of these fears, which are often unfounded. It will also ensure that you are provided with accurate information and advice at an early stage.

Chat to friends, but don’t rely too much on what they say

The support of friends and family during a relationship breakdown is essential but it is unfortunately the case that they can unwittingly, and albeit with the best of intentions, give you incorrect advice based upon their own experiences or third hand knowledge. It is therefore important to speak to the right people at the right time about your particular circumstances.

Take advantage of a free initial chat

Most divorce and family lawyers offer a free initial consultation to consider your situation and put you in possession of the legal facts. Take advantage of this and remove some of the worry and uncertainty.

Article written by Alison Ratchford, divorce and family lawyer based in Warwick.

Call 01789 330310 or email Alison.Ratchford@family-lawfirm.co.uk to book a confidential initial chat to find out your legal rights and responsibilities.

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editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk T: 01926 335004

Snippets

It’s party time!

Sandra Oram

SANDRA ORAM Member of I.F.A., B.R.A., A.R.R.

Clinical Aromatherapy Clinical Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage Massage Reflexology for Fertility

ation -motion Animrt ies CREATIVE Stop& Pa y da th Bir s Workshop

07581 576 198 ar4health@iCloud.com www.essential-aromatherapy.co.uk 30 Lawson Avenue, Tiddington Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 7BT

Mindful Parenting Aromatherapy and Reflexology for Health Sandra Oram offers a range of therapies from her delightful treatment room at her home on the outskirts of Stratford-upon-Avon. Therapies on offer include aromatherapy, reflexology, lymphatic drainage massage (great for post liposuction/Vasser treatments), reproductive reflexology (for preconceptual care, those trying to conceive as well as those undergoing IVF/ICSI protocols), Indian Head Massage and Hopi Ear Candling.

Aromatherapy and Reflexology are both safe, gentle therapies that are suitable for all stages of life, no matter what health issues an individual may be facing. Treatments can be beneficial to both men and women, particularly where stress is an issue which can be a key factor in fertility problems for example. They can also help to balance the hormones, regulate the menstrual cycle and aid the body in its recovery from childbirth. Both therapies are safe for children and babies, and can be used to address problems such as eczema, colic, cradle cap and nappy rash.

Sandra qualified in 1992 and has since undertaken numerous post-graduate courses including Fertility Reflexology, and maternity treatments.

For more information or to book an appointment, contact Sandra, member of I.F.A., B.R.A., A.R.R: M: 07581 576 198 E: ar4health@iCloud.com www.essential-aromatherapy.co.uk

What is it and how can it help?

Being mindful is about paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally. Mindful parenting means that, as much as possible we aim to: • Be present and connected with our children • Be aware of our own reactions and choose wiser, calmer, more compassionate responses • Be less stressed and more relaxed with our children (and in general) Parenting can be overwhelming at times! Using a mindful parenting approach can transform your family life to feeling calm, connected and joyful. And research shows this will raise happier, emotionally-intelligent kids.

Suzie Brown, Australian Mindful Parenting teacher and founder of www. feedtheparent.com, is visiting Warwick on 20 May for a unique workshop. Join her to learn how to stay calm in the face of strong emotions like anger and frustration, and how to deal with challenges like sleep deprivation and overwhelming demands. You will also learn techniques to help your children be calm and cooperative. Plus you’ll receive audio guided meditations to take home plus Suzie's e-book ‘10 Tips for Stress-Free Parenting’.

Suzie’s Workshop is proudly hosted by Your New Wings Life Coaching.

To book, please visit www.yournewwings.com.

mate.co.uk o.uk www.letsani @letsanimate.c hello

0797 3354567

‘MAKE YOUR OWN PIZZA’ CHILDREN’S PARTY Pizza chef brings his own special oven and children make delicious fresh pizzas at home.

WE CLEAR UP THE MESS!

pizzaupyourparty@gmail.com

07562 608659

Felt making parties The perfect party activity for girls or boys of all ages !

Learn with local artist and teacher Ursula Westwood.

Choose your own theme.

Two hour party for £15 per child

www.ursulawestwood.com 07802 901566

Individual and Group Coaching Supporting parents on their personal and family journeys For more information please contact Tina

07932 441 450

yournewwings@gmail.com

www.yournewwings.com

Kutz at Home Toni & Guy Trained Ladies Cut & Blow Dry - £25

Kutz at Home Katrina is a local hairdresser who offers hairdressing for all the family in the comfort of your own home.

An experienced hairdresser, Katrina trained and worked at Toni and Guy and has been in the industry for 15 years. Kutz at Home covers all areas of Warwickshire and offers a convenient and professional service 7 days a week, at a time that suits you. Competitive rates and family discounts.

Call Katrina on 0772 557 0522.

@familieswarks

familieswarwickshire

Ladies Wet/ Dry Trim - £18 Ladies Blow Dry - £15 Children's Cuts - £10/15

0772 557 0522 UP TO

www.familiesonline.co.uk

FF O % 50 SALON PRICES 5

Education

Walk to School Be part of this year’s Walk to School Week on Monday 15-Friday 19 May and join thousands of children across the country celebrating the benefits walking brings. Walk To School Week is part of National Walking Month, which takes place throughout May. We know that walking to school makes children feel healthier and happier, while reducing congestion and pollution outside the school gates. Yet less than half of primary school children currently walk to school. Living Streets, who organise the annual event want to reverse this decline and see every child that can, walk to school.

For more information or to order a challenge pack see: www.livingstreets.org.uk/what-we-do/ projects/walk-to-school-week

COTEN END PRIMARY SCHOOL

OPEN MORNING

September 2017 places available in certain Year Groups.

Interested? Please visit our ‘Outstanding’ school on Tuesday 16th May, 9.15am-12noon

Full tours of the school and the opportunity to meet the Headteacher.

Please call school to book a place on our Open Morning.

Coten End, Warwick CV34 4NP 01926 491329

www.cotenend.co.uk

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What’s it like at Alcester Grammar School?

Alcester Grammar School is unique. Our blend of purposeful learning, interesting lessons and a superb extra-curricular programme means that a place here is a wonderful opportunity. We are the only mixed selective state school in the North Cotswolds, and we draw students from a wide area, priding ourselves on a social mix that we feel differentiates us from other settings. Teachers are all highly knowledgeable subject specialists, but primarily they are committed to our ethos of warmth and care, and to forging excellent relationships which enable students to flourish and thrive.

Our curriculum is broad and rich, with all students following a full range of subjects in their first three years. After their GCSE exams in year 11, the sixth form offers a free choice of over 25 A level subjects, with students able to choose any four in the first instance. Academic results are excellent, but never at the expense of personal development or enjoyment of school life. Our students and staff know that the best success is happy success, and it’s that which makes being at AGS such a great foundation for the challenges of adult life. www.alcestergs.co.uk

editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk T: 01926 335004

Education

Princethorpe really nurtured my hockey career from pupil to international player, and if I make Tokyo, I know that support goes with me me.

James Simpson - Old Princethorpian and England Under 21s hockey player.

Our Entrance Examinations are moving!

2018 Admission for Years 7 to 10 Saturday 11 November 2017, 9.30am to 3.30pm

Find out what Princethorpe can do for you, come along to our Open Evening on Wednesday 7 June from 6.30pm to 8.30pm EducationInvestor

For information call 01926 634201 or visit princethorpe.co.uk

Awards 2016

Princethorpe College

An independent school for 11-18 year olds Registered Charity Number 1087124

KING HENRY VIII

PREP & SENIOR SCHOOL

OPEN MORNING Saturday 24th June nce The Entra r on Day fo Examinati 018 is t2 entry Sep 0th F R IDAY 2 R 2017 O C TO B E

King Henry VIII School, Warwick Road, Coventry CV3 6AQ A private school 024 education could1 1be1 1within your reach: please come and ask Telephone: 7627 Email: admissions@khviii.net one of our team about the financial support we offer

Families Warks May June 2017 advert.indd 1

@familieswarks

familieswarwickshire

www.khviii.com 07/04/2017 09:57:51

www.familiesonline.co.uk

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Education

Independent Schools Contact Details and Open Days Arnold Lodge Leamington Spa T: 01926 778050 E: info@arnoldlodge.com www.arnoldlodge.com Bablake Pre Prep Coventry T: 024 7622 1677 E: bablakepreprep@bablakejs.co.uk Bablake Junior School Coventry T: 024 7627 1260 E: jhmsec@bablakejs.co.uk www.bablakejuniorschool.co.uk Fri 23 June, 5pm-8pm: Open Evening Bilton Grange Rugby T: 01788 810217 E: admissions@biltongrange.co.uk www.biltongrange.co.uk Fri 12 May, 1pm-3pm: Pre-Prep Open House Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery Kenilworth T: 01926 514444 E: post@crackleyhall.co.uk www.crackleyhall.co.uk Tues 9 May, 5pm-7.30pm: Open Evening The Croft Preparatory School Stratford-upon-Avon T: 01789 293795 E: office@croftschool.co.uk www.croftschool.co.uk Henley Montessori Primary and Merrydays Montessori Nursery Henley-in-Arden T: 01564 792427 E: helen.everley@henleymontessori.co.uk www.henleymontessori.co.uk King Henry VIII Prep School Coventry T: 024 7627 1307 E: admissions@khps.co.uk www.khviii.co.uk Sat 24 June: Open Morning The Kingsley School Leamington Spa T: 01926 421368 E: registrar@kingsleyschool.co.uk www.thekingsleyschool.com

Stratford Preparatory School Stratford-upon-Avon T: 01789 297993 E: secretary@stratfordprep.co.uk www.stratfordprep.co.uk Sat 6 May, 10am-12.30pm: Open Morning Warwick Preparatory School Warwick T: 01926 491545 E: admissions@warwickprep.com www.warwickprep.com Thurs 4 May, 1.30pm-3pm: At Work Afternoon Warwick School Warwick T: 01926 776400 E: enquiries@warwickschool.org www.warwickschool.org Thurs 4 May, 1.30pm-3.15pm: At Work Afternoon

Senior Schools Bablake Senior School Coventry T: 024 7627 1200 E: info@bablake.coventry.sch.uk www.bablake.com Fri 23 June, 5pm-8pm: Open Evening King Henry VIII Senior School Coventry T: 024 7627 1111 E: admissions@khviii.net www.khviii.co.uk Thurs 22 June: Open House Sat 24 June: Open Morning King’s High Warwick T: 01926 494485 E: enquiries@kingshighwarwick.co.uk www.kingshighwarwick.co.uk Princethorpe College Rugby T: 01926 634201 E: admissions@princethorpe.co.uk www.princethorpe.co.uk Weds 7 June, 6.30pm-8.30pm Warwick School Warwick T: 01926 776400 E: enquiries@warwickschool.org www.warwickschool.org Tues 13 June, 2pm-3.45pm: School at work

May Half Term Holiday Clubs, Camps and Workshops Holiday Action

Belgrade Theatre

Coventry Tues 30 & Weds 31 May Action packed drama games and activities for ages 8-13.

T: 024 7655 3055 www.belgrade.co.uk

Warwick School, Warwick Tues 30 May-Fri 2 June, 9am-4.30pm (extended care available) Short pre-booked courses for ages 7 to 12 Multi-choice activities for ages 4-6.

T: 01926 735473 www.warwickschool.org/What-ison-in-2017

Coolsportz

Aspire Active Camps

Activate Sport

North Leamington School, Leamington Spa Weds 31 May-Fri 2 June, 8am-4pm (extended care available) Multi Sports Academy offers a huge range of sports, physical activities and alternative activities such as dodgeball, ultimate frisbee and archery. Children aged 4 are eligible for half day Multi Sports Academy only.

T: 01926 298178 www.aspire-sports.co.uk

Fit For Sports

Stratford Leisure Centre, Stratford-upon-Avon Tues 30 May-Fri 2 June, 9.30am-4.30pm (extended care available) Wide range of sports and activities for 5-12 years.

T: 0845 456 3233 www.fitforsport.co.uk/activitycamps

GO4GOALS

Kingsley School Playing Fields, Leamington Spa Weds 31 May & Thurs1 June, 9am-4pm (early drop off 8.30am) Multi sports and football camps for ages 4 to 11.

T: 07747 562469 www.go4goals.co.uk

Warwickshire College, Henley-inArden and Warwick Tennis Club (opp racecourse), Warwick Tues 30 May-Fri 2 June Fun multi-sports activities for ages 4-13. Full and half days.

T: 07912 664426 www.coolsportz.co.uk

Warwick School, Warwick Weds 31 May-Fri 2 June, 9.30am4.30pm (extended care available) Andrew Flintoff Cricket Academy cricket coaching, games and activities for children aged 5-16.

T: 01785 711572 www.activatesport.co.uk

Art Base Art Workshops

Stratford Girls’ Grammar School, Stratford-upon-Avon Tues 30 May-Thurs 1 June, 9am-3pm (extended day available) The Croft Preparatory School, Stratford-upon-Avon Weds 31 May & Thurs 1 June, 9am-3pm (extended day available) Lots of half term creativity and fun!

T: 01789 774705 www.art-base.co.uk

Wild Explorers

All All Things Wild, Honeybourne Tues 30 May-Fri 2 Jun Let the kids go wild and get back to nature! Includes lunch, drinks and snacks, exclusive hour before the doors open to the public, animal and reptile encounters, messy play, nature walks and lots more.

T: 01386 833083 www.allthingswild.co.uk

Top Tips for Healthier Little Eaters • Introduce children to a wide variety of flavours and textures at an early age, i.e. vegetable curry rather than plain puréed vegetables.

• Avoid foods with added sugar for as long as possible, i.e. serve plain yoghurt rather than flavoured, stick to porridge at breakfast rather than cereals.

• Children may go through phases of refusing certain foods. Keep putting healthy foods on your child’s plate. Over time they may decide to eat what they have previously refused.

• Eat as many meals together as a family as you can, so that children do not see ‘adult’ meals as different from ‘children’s’ meals.

• When eating out try to avoid the ‘Kids’ Menu’ which is usually standard fare of nuggets and chips type meals. Have a look at the Starter Menu as this often has tasty dishes that may tempt children. Or if something on the Adult Menu is suitable, ask for a child sized portion.

• Do not allow snacks before a main meal. Make this a rule from an early age. Distract hungry tummies with other activities or placate them with something very light such as a handful of blueberries or a homemade, diluted fruit juice lolly.

• Do not let your child drink too much either before or during a meal as too much fluid can be very filling.

• Give gold star stickers when a meal has been eaten, or even when a new food has at least been sampled.

For more information go to www.healthyapproach.co.uk/healthy-eating-children Vicki Gotham is a Nutritional Therapist, Systematic Kinesiologist, Weight Management Coach and local mum of two.

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editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk T: 01926 335004

Holiday clubs

Action-packed childcare this

May

Half Term Summer Holiday Clubs, Camps and Workshops Super Camps

The Croft Preparatory School, Stratford-upon-Avon Mon 31 July-Fri 25 Aug, 9am-5pm (extended care available) The multi-activity programme offers more than 40 sports, arts and crafts.

Learn bushcraft survival techniques on the RAW Adventure course on 7-11 Aug. A Passion For…Super Science workshop on 14-18 Aug will put the fun into all things scientific. Visit the website for the full timetable and activity listings. Save 15% with code FAMILIES17.

T: 01235 467300 www.supercamps.co.uk

Let’s Animate

Fargo Village, Coventry Come and get animated this summer with Let’s Animate. Whether it’s a family workshop, animation course or an animation club, Let’s Animate will have everyone animating! To find out more and to book please visit www. wegottickets.com/letsanimate T: 0797 3354567 www.letsanimate.co.uk

Summer Action

Warwick School, Warwick Thurs 13 Jul, 9am-4.30pm (extended care available) Multi-sport and swim for ages 7-12.

Mon 17 July-Thurs 31 Aug (excl 27 & 28 July, 25 & 28 Aug), (extended care available) Super choice activities for ages 4-12.

Mon 1-Fri 4 Aug & Mon 7-Fri 11 Aug, (extended care available) Action Plus for ages 12-14.

T: 01926 735473 www.warwickschool.org/What-ison-in-2017

Playbox Theatre

Warwick Mon 24 July-Fri 18 Aug Fun holiday theatre workshops at The Dream Factory.

T: 01926 419555 www.playboxtheatre.com

Belgrade Theatre

Coventry Mon 7-Fri 11 Aug Week-long, fun-filled Summer Schools for ages 8-11 and 11-16. Fun and practical theatre workshops.

T: 024 7655 3055 www.belgrade.co.uk

registered EY476056

Lots of activities and sports to choose from

North Leamington School Leamington Spa CV32 6RD

Wednesday 31st May Friday 2nd June Open from 8am - 6pm *Offer ends 5pm Friday 12th May 2017

Terms and conditions apply

3FOR £45 DAYS

We accept childcare vouchers

For more info visit aspire-sports.co.uk or call 01926 298 178

Stagecoach Summer Workshop

Trinity School, Leamington Spa Mon 14-Fri 18 Aug Put on a show in just 5 days! A week of fun, learning how to sing, dance and act.

T: 01926 702725 www.stagecoach.co.uk/leamington

ool

Summer Sch

ts of Performing Ar

Join us for a summer school you’ll never forget! With themed weeks we will have a whole range of exciting performing arts activities on offer such as dance, acrobatics, musical theatre, circus skills and creative art.

There will be a range of guest instructors visiting the summer school to deliver some super exciting workshops.

Activate Sport

The Croft Preparatory School, Stratford-upon-Avon Mon 24-Fri 28 July, 9.30am-4.30pm (extended care available) Andrew Flintoff Cricket Academy - is a fun filled week of cricket coaching, games and activities for children aged 5-16.

Weds 19-Fr 21 July, 9.30am-4.30pm (extended care available) Netball Fever - netball coaching course for girls aged 7-16 of all abilities.

T: 01785 711572 www.activatesport.co.uk

Weston Under Wetherley Village Hall, Sabin Drive, Leamington Spa, CV33 9GA Our Performing Arts summer school is suitable for Primary school aged children from 5-11 years old.

To book please contact Jaykays: enquiries@ jaykaysdancecompany.co.uk or call 077389 54258

8.00-9.00am Wake Up & Shake Up - £3.50 9.00-3.00pm Summer School - £17.50 3.00-4.00pm Cool Down - £3.50 Book a 4 day 9-3pm week for £60.00 20% sibling discount

The Summer School runs from Tuesday - Friday from 25th July - 25th August, themes include:

Musical Mayhem, The Next Step, The Big Top and The Magical World of Seuss!

Jaykays Dance Company Summer School of Performing Arts

Weston-under-Wetherley Village Hall, Nr Leamington Spa Tues 25 Jul-Fri 25 Aug, 9am-3pm (extended care available) Themed weeks full of exciting performing arts activities, including dance, acrobatics, musical theatre, circus skills and creative art. For ages 5-11. Sibling discount.

T: 07738 954258 www.jaykaysdancecompany.co.uk

Warwickshire College, Henley-inArden and Warwick Tennis Club (opp racecourse), Warwick Mon 24 July-Fri 1 Sept Fun multi-sports activities for ages 4-13. Full and half days.

T: 07912 664426 www.coolsportz.co.uk

familieswarwickshire

COURSES FOR ACTIVITIES AND THE SCHOOL CHILDREN DURINGYS HOLIDA

ROFT PREP CAMPS AT THE C RATFORD SCHOOL NEAR ST

Coolsportz

@familieswarks

Ofsted

, 8AM - 6PM MONDAY - FRIDAYED REGISTERED AGES 4 - 12 • OFST DE SAVE 15% WITH CO

FAMILIES17

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Clubs and Classes

¡Hola! Bonjour!

Welcome to BilinguaSing!

Get your child outdoors this spring Spring is a beautiful time of year and the perfect time to get out and about with the children. Numerous studies have shown the benefits of fresh air and good, old-fashioned outdoor fun.

Proven to increase children’s activity levels, alertness and general health, it’s also a great way to get their minds and their imaginations working.

Here are six super tips to get your little ones scrambling for the nearest door and their next adventure.

1. Take them camping Studies have shown that the average child spends far too much time indoors using electronics and less and less time outside. This can constrain their natural creativity and gives them an inability to cope without constant stimulation. One great way to turn this on its head is to grab a tent and take them camping. Internet service should be naturally limited in more remote locations, but if it’s not, encourage your children to leave their tablets and smartphones behind. Fill their days with hiking, campfires, and outdoor games and they’ll barely even notice the absence of 24/7 technology.

4. Collect and craft Another idea for woodland walks is to get your children to collect items that they can later use to make crafts.

Encourage them to search around for the most beautiful bits and bobs that they can find, whether these are flowers, feathers, or even pretty rocks. Once you’re at home, let them showcase their findings, and spend some time teaching them about the things they’ve discovered, such as which birds their feathers came from.

Then, get out the glue and the glitter and get to work. Their imaginations should soon be working overtime.

2. Do some wildlife watching

5. Take them pony trekking

According to research by the Kaiser Family Foundation, children spend more than seven hours a day on electronic media. Luckily, the best antidote for gamer’s eye and texter’s thumb is a simple one: a different kind of mental and visual stimulation in the form of wildlife watching. Helping children to better appreciate the birds and beasts around them is a great way to engage their senses and educate them on the environment. If you want to make the day extra exciting, turn it into a photo safari and have them snap pictures of any animals they spot.

Horse riding can be an expensive hobby, but as a one-off treat, it’s a really pleasant experience for children.

Helping to hone their hand-eye co-ordination, it's almost like enjoying a Great British safari. Most centres will take you out into the wilderness, with beautiful sights to be seen and enjoyed. Depending on where you trek, you could cross everything from woods to beaches to mountains, each of them offering a unique insight into the wonders of the great outdoors.

Your little ones will probably love it so much that they’ll be talking about it for weeks to come, their minds filled with the fun and the excitement that being outdoors can bring.

3. Turn detective for the day Woodland walks are one way to get your children moving, but to make

10

sure that they don’t get bored and try to avoid going out again in the future, turn the day into a game. Compile a list of things to find in the forest, from certain types of flowers to feathers, leaves, and even animal droppings.

Get them to tick these off their list as they locate them. The more they find, the more points they get, with a small prize at the end for the victor. Such games are guaranteed to not only be fun, but also to get all of their senses switched on and their attention focused on the task at hand.

6. Encourage them to cloud gaze As free as the air you breathe, cloud gazing has always been associated with daydreamers and there are worse things that your child could be. Encouraging them to pick out shapes in the sky will get their imaginations working overtime and is a truly fantastic catalyst for creativity.

Afterwards, have them make stories from the images they imagined, or else paint their own cloudy pictures.

As long as it gets them thinking, the day will have been a superb success.

How will you get your little ones out of the house and into the wilder world this spring?

For more fun things to see and do in the great outdoors, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk

BilinguaSing runs fun Spanish and French music classes for babies and toddlers in Leamington Spa and Coventry. Well-known nursery rhymes and popular children’s songs are sung in English and also in French or Spanish. You don't need to know any languages to join the classes but you’re guaranteed to be singing along in no time! The songs are accompanied by a range of instruments, puppets, sensory play, bubbles, dancing, and elements of baby massage and yoga for the babies. So each group has a lot of fun playing and at the same time learning a new language together.

Research has proven that exposing babies and young children to the sounds of foreign languages as early on in life as possible actually pre-programmes/re-wires their brain to be more able to learn and speak languages fluently in later life.

Amazing!

Mel runs BilinguaSing classes in Leamington Spa and Coventry and will be offering classes in Rugby and Stratford-upon-Avon from September 2017. To book your first FREE taster class contact mel@bilinguasing.com or call 07815 149877. www.bilinguasing.com/coventrywarwickshire

Want the best for your child through music?

Warwickshire Music offers: • Instrumental and vocal tuition by fully qualified teachers • Wide variety of after school music groups • Music theatre groups • Specialist groups including Suzuki strings and drum school • Performance opportunities throughout the year “Thank you very much for a great 7 years of music. Tours, concerts and weekly practices with various CMS groups form some of my fondest memories and were certainly a wonderful opportunity.”

Sam - member of the County Youth Orchestra and Wind Band.

T: 01926 745111 cms@warwickshire.gov.uk

www.warwickshiremusichub.org editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk T: 01926 335004

Clubs and Classes

EQUIPMENT PROVIDED

TRY TENNIS

Spanish & French Classes in Leamington Spa, Coventry & surrounding areas.

Music, instruments, bubbles, sensory play, dance, puppets, elements of baby massage & yoga

MEMBERS FREE Non-members £3 FIRST SESSION FREE! Young person membership from just £4 per month

Family Fun Tennis Sundays 2.30pm-4.30pm

Junior Tennis for Beginners Fridays 4.30pm-5.30pm

Book your FREE Trial Lesson

To book a place, please email gavindhenderson@hotmail.co.uk or call Gavin on 07787 568642.

mel@bilinguasing.com

07815 149877

www.warwickboatclub.co.uk

www.bilinguasing.com

Green Power Car Saturday Club 17 June - 22 July Calling all Young Engineers build and race a Green Power car.

9 - 11 years & 11 - 14 years britishmo

J12 M40 .

tormuse

um.co.uk Gaydon . W arwickshire . CV35 0B J

GET SOCIA L...

6 week block: £45 per child

Calling all Young Engineers Join us at the British Motor Museum for our Green Power Car Saturday Club and learn about the inner workings of cars. Over six weeks of exciting workshops you will learn about car design and test your engineering skills by building and racing a full size Green Power car on our outdoor track at the Museum.

17 June - 22 July, 11.45am-12.45pm KS2/KS3 (10-14 years) www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk

DANCE CLASSES H Southam Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sat

H Leamington Fridays

H Shrewley Sundays

H Barford

ADULT CLASSES TOO!

Saturdays

H Cawston Mondays and Fridays Call Claire on 07774 518949 claire@loveballet.co.uk www.loveballet.co.uk

DANCE WITH DASH

• Quality dance classes in Shipston-on-Stour • From 18 months to adults • Ballet Tap Modern and Jazz • British Ballet Organization (BBO) syllabus • Pre-School Melody Bear class

T: 07970 742256 www.dancewithdash.co.uk

®

warwickshire

Call Claire on 01926 335004 or email editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk to promote your business in the next issue

Book Now!

19-21 19-21 MayMay 2017 May 2017 NEC Birmingham NEC Birmingham 19-21 2017 NEC Birmingham Everything Everything You Need YouYou For Need ForFor Everything Need Bump,Bump, Baby Bump, &Baby You &Baby You & You

Advance Ticket Offer Book Tickets Now & Save Over 35%* Quote FAMILIESNEC

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*Saving is based on the standard on-the-door ticket price of £20. To book by phone call 0871 231 0844.

Calls cost 13p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge. Advance Box Office closes midnight 18/05/2017. £2.10 transaction fee applies per booking.

J368230_BSLN08_Families_Advert_180x130_2017_v2.indd 2

@familieswarks

familieswarwickshire

05/04/2017 16:55

www.familiesonline.co.uk

11

What's on

Family shows Warwick Arts Centre

Stratford ArtsHouse

Coventry Box Office: 024 7652 4524 www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

Stratford-upon-Avon Box Office: 01789 207100 www.stratfordartshouse.co.uk

Tap Dancing Mermaid

African Children’s Choir

Sun 14 May Stunning puppets, original live music and tap dancing. For age 3+.

Dough!

Sun 28 May Dough! explores how life can be filled with colour and beauty when we step outside the beige world we know. For ages 3-8.

The First Hippo On The Moon

Thurs 1-Sun 4 June David Walliams’ fantastical adventure featuring puppetry, music, mayhem and a giant space race to the moon!

Tales of Birbal

Sun 4 June Ancient stories of adventure and problemsolving, using puppetry and music. For ages 6+.

Mirror Mirror

Tues 27 & Weds 28 June Multi-sensory production for children and young people with complex disabilities. For ages 3-19.

The Scarecrows’ Wedding

Fri 30 June This heart-warming adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book promises wit, drama, and wedding bells!

Royal Spa Centre

Leamington Spa Box Office: 01926 334418 www.royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk

Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Adventure

Sat 3 June Told through a fantastic blend of puppetry, storytelling and music, these CBeebies favourites will take you and your children on a magical adventure.

African Children’s Choir

Thurs 8 June The African Children's Choir travels the world, acting as the ambassador for Africa's most vulnerable children, raising much needed awareness as they go. The concerts reflect the energy. beauty, dignity and unlimited ability of these incredible children through song, music and dance.

Weds 8 June The African Children's Choir travels the world, acting as the ambassador for Africa's most vulnerable children, raising much needed awareness as they go. The concerts reflect the energy. beauty, dignity and unlimited ability of these incredible children through song, music and dance.

Heartbreak Productions

www.heartbreakproductions.co.uk

The Secret Garden

Sat 10 & Sun 11 Jun at Jephson Gardens, Leamington Spa Weds 21 Jun at Dallas Burston Polo Club, Southam Performed outdoors, this classic children’s tale demonstrates all that is good about friendship and will add a touch of magic to your summer’s evening.

Billionaire Boy

Weds 31 May & Thurs 1 Jun at Jephson Gardens, Leamington Spa Outdoor adaptation of David Walliams’ best-selling children’s book. A charming tale of love, loss and friendship, Billionaire Boy is both hilarious and poignant.

Bridge House Theatre

Warwick Box Office: 01926 776438 www.bridgehousetheatre.co.uk

All aboard at Hillers The miniature railway at Hillers is open for rides between 11am and 4pm for two weekends a month from April to October. With a signal box and station, the miniature railway runs coal fired steam and diesel engines and provides a fun ride for children and adults, running through tunnels, round bends, and over and under bridges.

Hillers, at Dunnington Heath Farm just outside Alcester, is a family run business that also includes an award-winning farm shop, a garden restaurant, display gardens and a fabulous collection of gifts, furnishings and fashion. Children can also have fun in the sand pit or looking out for birds and other animals from the secluded bird hide.

The miniature railway will be running, weather permitting, on 13, 14, 27 & 28 May and 10, 11, 24 & 25 June. For more dates, see website. www.hillers.co.uk

WIN a Family Season Ticket to Stratford Butterfly Farm

One Little Word

Sat 6 May This moving story captivates children’s imaginations, and is underscored with original music and told with just ONE spoken word.

The Building Dance Show

Sat 3 June An interactive building and dancing, theatrical adventure for all the family; a magical, ever-changing playground constructed and inhabited by its audience. For ages 6+.

The Belgrade Theatre Coventry Box Office: 024 7655 3055 www.belgrade.co.uk

We’re Going On A Bear Hunt

Tues 30 May-Sat 3 June Michael Rosen’s award-winning book is brought vividly and noisily to the stage.

Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure. For ages 3+.

A visit to Stratford Butterfly Farm is a great family day out. Enjoy watching hundreds of the world's most spectacular and colourful butterflies flying all around. Learn about the amazing lifecycle of the butterfly and watch them hatch from their chrysalis. Get up close to some fascinating insects, clever creepy crawlies and other curious creatures, and be amazed when you see the two busy colonies of ants working non-stop right above you! www.butterflyfarm.co.uk For your chance to WIN a Family Season Ticket and a copy of the brand new Visitor Guide, simply email your name, phone number and address to editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk and write ‘Butterfly’ in the subject.

DEADLINE Friday 23 June (Competition Terms & Conditions will be issued on receipt of entry)

Jungle Town brings back popular Summer Pass Stratford-upon-Avon’s innovative children’s role play centre is bringing back its popular Summer Pass for 2017. Jungle Town’s Summer Pass entitles your child to unlimited play sessions in July and August for only £15!

Perfect when you need somewhere to entertain the little ones this summer holiday. Summer Pass holders can book sessions in advance, meaning you’ll never be turned away. Jungle Town also carefully controls its capacity to make sure the play centre never gets too busy.

Visit www.JungleTown.co.uk or call 01789 296637 for more information.

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Guide Dogs Fun Day Enjoy a great day out with all the family at the Guide Dogs Fun Day which takes place on Saturday 8th July, 11am-4pm at the Training School on Warwick New Road, Leamington Spa. The event will be jam packed with children’s activities, agility and dog demonstrations - including police and guide dog displays - and music from local steel pan band ‘Phase One’. Refuel at the tea room and BBQ, browse the many local stalls and delve into the life of our four legged heroes.

For more information, contact coventry@guidedogs.org.uk or call 0345 1430 201.

editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk T: 01926 335004

Days Out – places to go and things to do this May and June, including May Half Term.

What's on

THE PERFECT FAMILY TREAT

Here are a few ideas for fantastic days out. See the What’s On pages of www.familiesonline.co.uk for more!

Stratford-upon-Avon Come rain or shine, discover some of the world’s most beautiful and spectacular butterflies. During school holidays, take part in daily Meet the Mini-Beast handling sessions and get up close to African snails, millipedes and a variety of stick insects.

The Minibeast Metropolis is teeming with life and home to an amazing leafcutter ant colony, one of the largest on display in the UK! T: 01789 299288 www.butterflyfarm.co.uk

Hatton Adventure World

Nr Warwick Sat 13 & Sun 14 May Meet Chase and Marshall from PAW Patrol.

Come and see the heroic pups during story time sessions throughout the day!

PLUS a full day of Hatton entertainment and activities!

Sat 27 May-Sun 4 June Pirate Festival Swashbuckling adventures for all the family! Dress up in your best costumes and take part in treasure hunts, fun and games. Plus our usual animal favourites and masses of indoor and outdoor fun and adventure play.

T: 01926 843411 www.hattonworld.com/adventureworld

Redwings Horse Sanctuary

Oxhill Open every Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon, 10am to 4pm Home to almost 90 rescued horses, ponies and donkeys. Meet residents large and small from Shire to Shetland. Café and gift shop, plus the opportunity to adopt a horse. Entry and parking are free and dogs on leads are welcome.

T: 0870 040 0033 www.redwings.org.uk/visiting

Herbert Art Gallery

Adapted from the book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated

by Helen Oxenbury

‘Enchanting’

‘Ingenious’

BBC Radio Bristol

Daily Mail

Coventry Thurs 18 & Fri 19 May, 10.30am-11.30am & 1pm-2pm Sensory Play Days A stimulating experience for Early Years children to play creatively. Suitable for ages 0-4. £2.

Mon 29 May-Sat 3 Jun, 10.30am-3.30pm The Magic of Making Make your own playdough, marbled paper, spiral sculptures and much more!

A different activity every day. Drop in.

Suitable for ages 3+, but all welcome.

Every Tues in term time Sensory Stories and Rhymes 10.30am-11am: childminders' session, 11.30am-12pm: open to all. Explore our galleries through songs, stories and rhymes in these fun Early Years sessions, Led by a member of our team. Drop in.

Suitable for ages 0-4. £1.

T: 024 7623 7521 www.theherbert.org

TUES 30 MAY - SAT 3 JUNE BOX OFFICE 024 7655 3055 belgrade.co.uk

bearhuntlive.com

Stratford Butterfly Farm

*FREE OF CHARGE

half term fun

29 May - 2 June

MONDAY 29th MAY - FRIDAY 2nd JUNE

Tractor Ted

Daily animation workshops with a motoring twist!

HILL-

Create your storyboard and then build your model car to star in your short stop motion film!

ERS HALF TERM FUN HILLERS HALF TERM FUN Across the site you will have the opportunity to get involved in different Tractor Ted activities, suitable for all ages, as well as purchase Tractor Ted merchandise at reduced prices.

seed planting

HILLERS HALF TERM FUN HILLERS HALF TERM FUN

See website for full details.

Children are fascinated with how seeds grow.

Choose between a bean stalk or a sunflower to plant in a pot that they can take home and nurture.

© 2017 Aardman Animations Ltd

birds of prey

HILLERS HALF TERM FUN HILLERS HALF TERM FUN Come and get up close and personal with some birds of prey.

You can see them between 11.00am - 3.00pm from Monday through to Friday.

£39 FAMIL Y TICKET BUY 1 DAY GET 12 MONTH S FREE*

britishmo

tormuse

um.co.uk Gaydon . W arwickshire *see webs . CV35 0B ite for full te J rms

J12 M40 .

and conditi ons.

May half-term family fun... @familieswarks

familieswarwickshire

Warwickshire Wildlife Trust

HILLERS HALF TERM FUN HILLERS HALF TERM FUN GET SOCIAL ...

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Nestled amongst our beautiful gardens you will find a Warwickshire Wildlife Trust activity point with bird and wildlife fact sheets, as well as instructions on how to make a bird feeder.

*The miniature railway will be open for rides (90p per head) Saturday 27th May and Sunday 28th May

Dunnington Heath Farm • Alcester • B49 5PD Tel: 01789 772771 • www.hillers.co.uk

13

What's on

Guide Dogs Fun Day

Sat 8 Jul, 11am-4pm Great family day out at the Training School on Warwick New Road in Leamington Spa. Children’s activities, agility and dog demonstrations, music, tea room and BBQ, and lots more.

T: 0345 1430 201 E: coventry@guidedogs.org.uk

a Tudor handfasting and join in the festivities.

Anne Hathaway's Cottage Discover how Anne's relatives lived and how this was different to William and Anne's family life in Stratford. Don't miss the craft activities in the family marquee!

T: 01789 204016 www.shakespeare.org.uk

Kenilworth Castle

Ragley Hall

Kenilworth Sun 28 & Mon 29 May, 11am-5pm Elizabeth: the Pageant Celebrate Kenilworth’s Elizabethan heyday as the ultimate party palace with music, falconry displays, and a feast of entertainments.

Tues 30 May-Fri 2 Jun, 11am-5pm Knights and Princesses Budding courtiers can transform themselves into a courtly Lord or Lady with tips on everything from curtsies to combat.

Sat 17 & Sun 18 Jun, 11am-5pm Grand Medieval Joust Magnificent knights on horseback clash at the greatest event of medieval England.

T: 01926 852078 www.english-heritage.org.uk/ kenilworthcastle

All Things Wild

Honeybourne Sat 27 May-Sun 4 Jun Wild Africa Learn all about Africa and its native animals and plants. Plus soft play barn, indoor beach, go karts, dinosaur experience, plenty of animals to meet and lots more!

T: 01386 833083 www.allthingswild.co.uk

British Motor Museum

Gaydon Sat 27 May-Sun 4 Jun Animate it!

Animation with a motoring twist! Animate It! workshops will be running Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm. Explore the Museum with daily family trails, enjoy daily self-led activities and join family tours which run at 1.30pm every day during the holidays.

All activities are included in Museum admission. Animation workshops are limited and subject to availability, and are bookable on arrival. Book online today to save time when you arrive!

T: 01926 641188 www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk

Hillers

Nr Alcester Mon 29 May-Fri 2 Jun Lots of hands-on fun including Tractor Ted activities, seed planting and Warwickshire Wildlife Trust activity point. Miniature railway open Sat 27 and Sun 28 May. Plus farm shop, restaurant, display gardens, sand pit and bird hide.

T: 01789 772771 www.hillers.co.uk

The Shakespeare Houses

In and near Stratford-upon-Avon Sat 27 May-Sun 4 Jun Enjoy a fun programme of activities at Shakespeare's Family Homes this May half term.

Shakespeare's Birthplace Take part in our Tudor games on the lawn and follow our colourful flower trail around the garden.

Shakespeare's New Place Learn the Tudor technique of copying portraits called pouncing.

Hall's Croft Explore the gardens and hunt for beats of Shakespeare's magical creatures in our Croft's Conjuring Creatures trail. On Weds 31 May, find out how herbs and spices were used during the 1600s and enjoy cooking demonstrations in the kitchen.

Mary Arden's Farm Woolly Week! See traditional sheep shearing, learn how to felt sheep fleece and make a felt bead to take home. On Mon 29 May, celebrate

14

Nr Alcester Beautiful home and stunning gardens.

Woodland Walk waiting to be explored.

Hours of fun for children in the Adventure Playground with 3D maze, aerial slide, rope bridges and climbing frames. Dogs on leads are welcome.

T: 01789 762090 www.ragley.co.uk

The MAD Museum

Stratford-upon-Avon Housing an impressive collection of eccentric and ingenious creations. Interact with eccentric artworks, contraptions and machines, build marble runs on the giant MAD Marbles wall. A fun place to visit for all the family. Free family activity sheets.

T: 01789 269356 www.themadmuseum.co.uk

Compton Verney

CV35 9HZ A great day out for all the family. All weather family backpacks for all ages, grounds trail, nature’s art box, adventure playground, discovery room. Plus holiday drop in sessions.

Sat 27 May-Fri 2 Jun, 11am-4pm Jigsaw Jigsaws Create your ideal countryside image using jigsaw pieces.

Thurs 1 Jun, 11am-4pm Forest School Discover a secret world of bugs and mini-beasts and the seasonal changes that take place to Compton Verney’s plants and trees as we head into summer.

Thur 2 Jun, 11am-4pm Meet the RSPB Head to the Ice House Coppice where the RSPB will teach you all about the fascinating world of dragonflies.

Spot insects by the lake and learn how to make seed bombs for the birds in your garden.

Sun 25 Jun, 11am-5pm Park Life Celebrate the great British countryside with folk music, local artisan food and drink, heritage skill displays, games and local crafts.

T: 01926 645500 www.comptonverney.org.uk

Coventry Transport Museum

Coventry This huge museum offers a whole FREE day out of fun and discovery for visitors of all ages.

Sat 17 Jun, 10am-4pm 999 Emergency Services Family Day An exciting and engaging day featuring the Emergency Services of Fire, Police, Ambulance, RNLI and Air Ambulance. Free.

Weds 10 & 24 May, 10am-11.30am Go Messy!

Transport inspired messy play time.

Sensory play activities for ages 0-4. Drop in.

T: 024 7623 4270 www.transport-museum.com

Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve Coventry Brandon Marsh runs regular Nature Tots sessions for pre-school children plus activity sessions during school holidays, including crafts, den building and pond dipping.

T: 024 7630 2912 www.warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/ whats-on

Abbey Fields

Kenilworth Thurs 1 Jun, 12.30pm-2pm Explore the trees in Abbey Fields and make

a collage out of things found in the park. FREE. E: laura.smith@warwickdc.gov.uk T: 01926 456754

Hill Close Gardens

Warwick Thurs 1 Jun, 10.30am-12pm Half Term Family Workshop Boggling Bugs and Curious Critters – explore the gardens, become an insect inspector and create your own colourful creatures. £4 per child.

T: 01926 493339 www.hillclosegardens.com

Welcome to Jungle Town!

An inspiring children’s play experience encouraging imagination play and development!

Enjoy our Summer Pass Only

£15 for unlimited

play sessions in July & August (t&c’s apply)

Foundry Wood

Leamington Spa An urban community woodland in the heart of Leamington Spa and Warwick. Regular Forest School sessions, storytelling, creative workshops and lots of special events. www.foundrywood.co.uk

Open at Stratford Garden Centre Visit www.jungletown.co.uk or call 01789 296637

Market Hall Museum

Warwick Tues 30 May, 10am-3pm Arty Tots Fun filled creative session. Create mini-beasts to take home, or a beautiful bird. Suitable for under 5s, older siblings welcome. £2.50 per child. Drop in.

Thurs 1 Jun 10am-3pm Spectacular Stone Age Find out what people in the Stone Age ate and how they lived. Handle replica stone tools and make your own stone age necklace. Create your own cave art. £2.50 per child. Drop in.

T: 01926 412132 http://heritage.warwickshire. gov.uk

& Nature Inspired Gift Shop

The UK’s Largest Tropical Butterfly Paradise!

Open All Year Discover the Maya a Rainforest Civilisation

Butterflies • Birds • Ants • Iguanas and so much more….

Onsite toilets now open!

Please check website for latest news & last entry times

Leamington Art Gallery and Museum

Leamington Spa Sat 27 May, 1pm-3pm Art Cart with Dr Alice Eden Create a magical charm or letter to the fairies and contribute to a shared artwork for the Enchanted Community art project.

Free, drop in and join in for the whole family.

Thurs 1 Jun, 2pm, 2.45pm & 3.30pm Art Club Extra Show off your drawing skills in these half hour sessions. Find out about and draw objects from the museum collection which are usually stored behind the scenes and draw your favourite. Free. For children up to 12 years.

Sun 18 Jun, 1pm-3pm Father’s Day: Dad socks Make your father's day gift stand out from the crowd by making some personalised socks for your Dad! Free, drop in and join in.

T: 01926 742700 www.warwickdc.gov.uk/wdc/ royalpumprooms

Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall

Stratford-upon-Avon Learn about Shakespeare’s early life and explore the very building where he learnt to read, write and first enjoyed professional theatre. Lots of fun for the family including dressing up Tudor-style, Tudor games, Medieval wall paintings and brush up your Latin with our Tudor School Master!

T: 01789 203170 www.shakespearesschoolroom.org

Swan Theatre

Stratford-upon-Avon The Play’s the Thing Family-friendly exhibition for families and children aged 7+. Take a magical journey through 100 years of theatre-making in

Swan’s Nest Lane, Stratford-upon-Avon Warwickshire, CV37 7LS

Tel. 01789 299288

enquiries@butterflyfarm.co.uk

www.butterflyfarm.co.uk Stratford-upon-Avon. Immersive, hands on and engaging. www.rsc.org.uk/theplaysthething

The National Trust

Visit a local National Trust property for family fun and see how many of our 50 things to do before you're 11¾ you can tick off. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lists/ warwickshire

Warwick Castle

Warwick CV34 4QU Jaw-dropping history, magic, myth and adventure! Get lost in time in the Horrible Histories Adventure Maze. A great day out for the whole family.

T: 0871 265 2000 www.warwick-castle.com

Ryton Pools Country Park

Bubbenhall Lots of great value events for all the family throughout the year.

Tues 30 May, 10am-1.30pm Young Bushcrafter Fun session led by two of the Rangers.

Activities include fire lighting, whittling, cordage making, location games and shelter building. Suitable for ages 7+. £10 per child. Booking essential.

Thurs 1 Jun, 10.30am-12pm Fairy and Elf Adventure to the Magic Kingdom Make a magic willow wand and discover what things the naughty goblins have been up to in the woods! For ages 3+, must be accompanied by an adult. £3.50 per child. Booking essential.

T: 024 7630 5592 http://countryparks.warwickshire.gov. uk

editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk T: 01926 335004

What's on

famIly eVeNts elizabeth: the Pageant Sun 28 – Mon 29 May, 11am – 5pm Knights and Princesses Tue 30 May – Fri 2 June, 11am – 5pm Grand medieval Joust Sat 17 – Sun 18 June, 11am – 5pm

Come and learn all about Africa and the animals and plants that make it their home!

Please see our website for more details

Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 ING

All Things Wild Nature Centre Station Road, Honeybourne, Near Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 7QZ T: 01386 833083

daVIes

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Mary Arden’s Farm

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west

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adVert Port

130X87mm

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KeNIlworth adVert

7.4.17

lIsh herItaGe, BraNd & desIGN team, the eNGINe house, fIrefly aVeNue, swINdoN sN2 2eh • telePhoNe 01793 414451

ENJOY THE SIGHTS, SOUNDS AND SMELLS OF A WORKING TUDOR FARM

BOOK ONLINE SAVE 10%

@familieswarks

familieswarwickshire

Shakespeare birthplace trust

www.familiesonline.co.uk

15

FamilY PIGTAILS PRODUCTIONS

Summer 2017

LES PETITS THEATRE

The Tap Dancing Mermaid

The First Hippo on the Moon

by David Walliams

Sun 14 May

Thu 1 – Sun 4 Jun

FAMILY DAY

CREATIVE SCENE & OLIVIA FURBER

Dough!

From Legends to Light Years

Sun 28 May

Sun 4 Jun

SCAMP THEATRE

MASHI THEATRE

The Scarecrows’ Wedding

Tales of Birbal

by Sayan Kent from an original concept

by Trina Haldar

From the book by Julia Donaldson, Illustrated by Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo

Fri 30 Jun

Sun 4 Jun

The Scarecrows’ Wedding © 2014 Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, published by Alison Green Books, an imprint of Scholastic Children’s Books.

Warwick Arts Centre – the region’s biggest arts and entertainment venue with restaurant, bars, café, gallery and FREE parking after 6pm Warwick Arts Centre @warwickarts warwickarts

Box Office 024 7652 4524 warwickartscentre.co.uk

Warwick Arts Centre The University of Warwick Coventry CV4 7AL

Let’s get this

party started!

HELPING TO CREATE CHERISHED MEMORIES

EW Our N kages c a p y part ow n are

10% off all parties booked now till the end of May! * Parties need to be held by May 31st

THROW THEM A PARTY THEY’LL NEVER FORGET creating bespoke parties for 10-40 guests choose from a selection of party packages we’ll sort the activity, food and fun you bring the party animals!

RUSHUK.COM

03454 500 268 16

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Rush Uk - Unit 6 Avery Dell Kings Norton Birmingham - B30 3DZ

editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk T: 01926 335004