Families Warwickshire July August 2014 Issue 18 by Families Magazine

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July/August 2014 Issue 18

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warwickshire

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The really useful magazine for parents

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Contents Issue 18 | July/August 2014 | Families Warwickshire In This Issue

3 News 4 Mums in Business 6 Education w Clubs & Classes e Days Out u Summer Camps o What’s On a Competitions Twitter: @familieswarks www.facebook.com/ familieswarwickshire

Contact details

Call: Claire Jones on 01926 335004 E: editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Design by Caroline Smith www.carolinesmithdesign.co.uk Cover by Linda Scannell www.lindascannell.com All content © 2014 Families Warwickshire Families Warwickshire is a bi-monthly magazine for parents, covering Stratfordon-Avon and Warwick Districts with 22,000 copies. Towns covered include Stratfordupon-Avon, Warwick, Leamington Spa and Kenilworth, plus Studley, Alcester, Bidford, Henley-in-Arden, Wellesbourne, Welford-onAvon, Shipston-on-Stour, Southam and lots of the smaller villages in between.

Advertise with us and reach 40,000+ local parents and carers from just £30 a month!

Take the summer reading challenge

Enter a fantastical world of legend and mythology by joining in with the 2014 Summer Reading Challenge. Run by independent charity the Reading Agency, the scheme invites children to pop into their local library and choose six or more books to read during the holidays. There are stickers and rewards to collect along the way, with a certificate at the end for every child who completes the challenge. This year’s theme is Mythical Maze, which challenges 4-11 yearolds to discover fantastical creatures as they find their way around a labyrinth. Head to your local library during the summer holidays to enrol. It’s completely free and anybody can take part. Find out more at www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk and www.readingagency.org.uk.

25% off inspiring tuition at Explore Learning Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities, and also run special courses in 11+ exam preparation. The centres are open 7 days a week and are Ofsted registered so families can use Childcare Vouchers to pay for membership. Explore fits easily around family life with children able to attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis. As Explore members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme tailored to meet their needs, and all Explore courses map the National Curriculum. Families joining in July will receive 25% off their first full month of tuition, so now is a great time to join. Your local Explore Learning centre is at Sainsbury’s on The Shires Retail Park, Leamington Spa. To book your trial, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk or call 01926 422800.

Support for children with arthritis The National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) is launching a new service for children with arthritis at a family fun day in Fillongley, north Warwickshire on Saturday 19 July. A free event, ‘Tea on the Beach’ promises to be a fun afternoon full of exciting activities for all the family. There will be talks by experts and parents will also have the opportunity to ‘Ask the Professionals’. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is an inflammatory disease which causes chronic arthritis in children and young people and affects approximately 12,000 children (1 in 1,000) under the age of 16 in the UK. Ailsa Bosworth, Chief Executive of the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society, who has lived with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for over thirty years, says “The new service aims to be a voice for the family, helping to raise public and government awareness of the impact JIA can have on their school and family life and to ensure that those with JIA and their families have access to the information and sign-posting they need as well as a national support network.’ For more information and to book your free place, please contact Maria Edwards on 0845 458 3969 or 01628 823524 or email maria@nras.org.uk. See advert on page 19.

Next issue: September/October 2014 Main features: Back to school, extracurricular activities/clubs & classes Deadline: Wednesday 6 August Families Warwickshire is part of the Families Group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the content, nor for any consequence.

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

News

THE PAULINE QUIRKE ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS IS ENROLLING NOW! With outstanding Performing Arts tuition for 4 to 18 year olds, your very own movie screened at the cinema, free Trinity exams and our West End show - what are you waiting for? PQA Coventry and PQA Warwick are enrolling now for the Autumn term. Academies run on Saturdays To enrol your child and for further information please visit www.pqacademy.com or call us on 084567 32022

Labels4Kids - new and improved website

BOOK FREE T YOUR ASTER

Labels4Kids continue the expansion of their website to improve the ordering process. The new, state of the art site is in full working order with any “add to basket” issues from last year now resolved. Labels4Kids is expecting a very busy summer so remember to get in early at the start of summer and order to guarantee a quick turnaround in time for school. Your ordering process will be much faster and smoother this year. Not only can you now design your vinyl order on screen but postage is free for orders of £20 or more, with a 100% money back guarantee if you have any problems with your labels. Labels4Kids offers such a large tried and tested amount of labels that there is something for everyone. Follow them on Facebook, Pinterest, twitter or Flickr or sign up to their blog for more developments later this year! Labels4Kids care, because kids DO lose stuff! www.labels4kids.com/fam

www.familieswarwickshire co.uk has a fresh new look Families Online is now much easier to use than ever. Our fresh re-branding expresses our aim to cover all things ‘families’, as well as offering ‘endless ideas for families’. You can set the website to show only information local to you. Simply enter your postcode once and the site will remember you after that. Use our interactive What’s On calendar to search for things to do and places to visit. Go to www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Guide Dogs charity shop Opening times: Monday to Friday 1pm - 4pm Saturday 10am - 2pm

For more news and events visit Families Warwickshire online

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Mums and Dads !!!

Are you always having to sacrifice holidays, wages and promotion, because you’re always juggling work with being a parent ?? I have incredible work from home opportunities and I’m looking for 3 types of people: RETAILERS - sales/customer care/product recommenders earning £300-£500 per month TEAM LEADERS - supporting a team of retailers earning £800-£1,500 per month BUSINESS DEVELOPERS - expanding teams throughout the UK, Europe and global - mentoring team leaders, training, support earning £5,000-£20,000 per month plus benefits Flexible hours to suit, no boss, no staff, no targets

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Quality donations welcome Free parking Guide Dogs Training School, Edmondscote Manor, Warwick New Road, Leamington, CV32 6AH Registered charity in England and Wales (209617) and in Scotland (SC038979) 7440 06/14

Win tickets! Enter our competitions on back page

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

We are looking for welcoming homes to accommodate our students on short stay study trips in Leamington this year. Rewarding experience and good pay. Call Margaret on

07974 274043

or email info@depauwinternational.be

Mums in Business

Questions about your child’s sleep? Contact me for a FREE 15 minute consultation

Call Kelly on 01926 298 198

info@sleep-ability.co.uk

www.sleep-ability.co.uk

Mums in Business Liz Barnes – LHA Accountancy

What is your business and how long have you been working for yourself? My business is bookkeeping and admin. I carry out a monthly bookkeeping service which takes the hassle out of paperwork for small businesses and sole traders who just don’t have the time to keep a track of everything. I also do self-assessment, tax returns, end of year accounts, data entry, invoicing, payroll, CIS and the day-today paperwork. I have worked for myself for nearly 12 years now.

What made you decide to set up your own business?

What qualifications do you have?

I have always worked better on my own. I knew that at some stage I would want a family and I wanted to be able to have the freedom to be a mum and have the flexibility within my professional life.

I have an AICB with the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers and have done manual and computerised bookkeeping and payroll, as well as a certificate in Self-Assessment. I am always trying to better my knowledge and try and take a new qualification each year. What is the best bit about what you do? The flexibility of choosing when I work and also meeting new people all the time. I have always enjoyed the boring and tedious paperwork and love the feeling of satisfaction I get when I have been given carrier bags of receipts etc. and have been able to turn it into accounts and help people get some more time to themselves. How do you fit work around family life? I work when my daughter is at school and then I generally work in the evenings as well. Luckily my husband is understanding and it works well when the school holidays are upon us, as I then get to spend time with my daughter and also manage my workload in the evenings and weekends if the need arises. What advice would you give other mums looking to work for themselves? I would thoroughly recommend working for yourself when you are a mum. The flexibility that it gives you to be able to choose the hours that you work and also spend that quality time with your child is priceless. They grow up so quickly and you don’t want to feel like that you have missed out on those special moments as they have been at a nursery and you have been at work.

Good night, sleep tight Local sleep consultant, Kelly Dix, helps parents solve challenging sleep problems and improve family health and happiness. Ask just about any new parent what’s on their mind, and you’re likely to hear the same answer over and over again: Sleep. Parents of newborns may joke about sleep deprivation being a “rite of passage,” but the fact is that many families suffer sleepless nights for months (or even years) – and the toll it takes on the child AND the parents is no laughing matter. Mums whose babies keep them up at night are more likely to suffer from post-partum depression, and they’re three times more likely to be carrying an extra 11 pounds by baby’s first birthday, according to recently published research. Dads suffer too, as the ongoing stress leads to a disconnection between the parents, and can impact both parents’ performance at work. Plus, studies have recently linked sleep problems in children to a number of behavioural problems and ADHD. According to local infant and toddler sleep consultant Kelly Dix, tackling the problem early is the most important step in avoiding these issues. Through one-on-one sessions and group seminars, Kelly helps parents develop a customised sleep plan that addresses their family’s specific challenges, using techniques and strategies from The Sleep Sense™ Program developed by world-renowned sleep expert Dana Obleman. With Kelly’s help, parents learn to stop arguing about how to deal with their tired baby or toddler, develop a plan they can implement together, and regain their connection as a couple and a family. The important thing for families to understand is that sleep problems, while very common, don’t have to happen. Babies and toddlers want to sleep and are happier, healthier, and more able to learn when they can do so successfully. Find out more about Kelly Dix and the Sleep Sense programme at www.sleep-ability.co.uk To book a consultation or enquire about the next group seminar, contact Kelly directly on 01926 298198 or email info@sleep-ability.co.uk.

See Liz’s advert on the back page. www.lha-accountancy.co.uk

Peaches’ Parties

Where parties are dreams come true with the emphasis on YOU! Singing and dancing with one of your favourite characters, Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, Tigger or Eeyore, and lots more fun and games

Available online from £1.99 inc P&P Visit www.cleversweets.co.uk

07580 549486

laura@peachesparties.com

www.peachesparties.com

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Summer Hair We all know how important it is to protect our children’s skin from the sun. Children’s hair expert, Marion Burns, shares some tips on how to look after children’s hair and scalp at this time of year. Did you know, you can use your sunblock on hair? Just apply it like conditioner and leave it in while your child is in the sun. You can rinse it out later and shampoo as usual. To help protect children’s hair throughout the day, use lots of leave-in conditioner. If you don’t have any, mix three parts conditioner to one part water in a spray bottle and apply each morning and throughout the day.

days. If you can’t tie or plait your child’s hair, don’t worry. Still apply the conditioner - it really works. Curly hair can get very dry in the summer and humidity can affect the frizz level so when washing, use a sulphate free product - for both the shampoo and conditioner. A detangler applied throughout the day would benefit the hair too.

It doesn’t matter what age you are. Good daily payments.

Call Ben to find out more 01684 252757 Email: ben@pippasguardians.co.uk

www.pippasguardians.co.uk

The Kindest Cut

At Home

Children’s Hair Salon

“Marion Burns is the UK’s Children’s Hair Expert.” www.ukhairdressers.com

A very special way to say ‘thank you teacher!”

It’s very simple – you make a donation to the charity on a teacher’s behalf. Once the order is placed, you’ll receive a gift token with information about what your contribution provides and a card which your child can personalise and give to their teacher. The gifts range from £3 to £90, so there is something for everyone. The ‘anytime’ (£3) and ‘storytime’ (£7) gifts in particular make great presents for teachers as they are inexpensive. The contribution may be small but the effect is lasting as special moments are created for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions.

Occasional Weekends and Half Terms only Do you have a spare room in your house?

If you have any questions for Marion, visit www.ukhairdressers.com and click on Ask the Experts.

For girls with long hair who will be swimming, dampen their hair, then drench with conditioner and plait. When removing later to bath or shower, just rinse the conditioner out well. There’s no need for shampoo as the conditioner acts as a barrier and rinses out. You can then wash the hair over the following few

Acorns Children’s Hospice is offering parents and children the chance to show their teachers they care with a special gift at the end of this school year. One that goes beyond the material and gives a life-limited child a special moment.

Become a Host Family for an International Student from a Local Boarding School from September 2014

Acorns Children’s Hospice offers a network of specialist palliative care and support to children and young people who have life limiting or life threatening illnesses, and their families. In the last year Acorns has supported over 700 children and more than 1,050 families, including those who are bereaved. For more information or to purchase a gift visit www.acorns.org.uk/ shop/giveagift You can also support your local Acorns Charity Shops in Kenilworth, Southam, Stratford-upon-Avon and Alcester.

“Marion is a brilliant hairdresser and really knows how to put children at ease.” Local mum

T: 07503 516431 or pop in Find The Kindest Cut on Facebook

155 Cape Road, Warwick (next to Top Shop)

EP S N U RSER I T S T ES OO S U M M E R

FETE and

OP E N D AY •••

Saturday 12th July 10:00am - 2:00pm •••

OPEN TO ALL

enjoying our fabulous whilst the family-friendly Summer event is a

activities and

brilliant chance

to come along and see our outstanding childcare facilities 7.30am

•••

helping us raise a little money for Save the Children.

) 01789 414 004 - Timothy’s Bridge Road, Stratford

footstepsnurseries.co.uk Register on the day for

£100 off your 1st months fees www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Education

Summer Maths By Anastasia Pappa

There is a common misconception that maths is just about numbers. In reality, it is so much more than this. Pattern recognition, problem solving, structured thinking, comprehension, interpretation of quantities and critical thinking are all skills required to investigate even the simplest of mathematical questions. The summer holiday provides a fantastic opportunity for learning maths in different contexts and through more playful channels. Here are a few ideas of how to have fun with your children this summer, while at the same time helping them to sharpen their skills. Simple games can help children develop core skills that will allow them to gain a solid background in maths. Strategy board games, Sudoku and Connect 4 are all great games for practising fundamental maths skills. They allow players to use strategy, reason, critical thinking and planning.

Challenge your child with a puzzle. Puzzles are a great way to engage the family but also encourage children to work out their mathematical brain muscles. There are plenty of books and online resources to help you find age appropriate puzzles. They help children sharpen their problem solving and reasoning skills, practise comprehension and think creatively. Jigsaw puzzles are not only a great leisure activity for children, but can also help them boost core maths skills, such as pattern recognition, perseverance and concentration. Encourage your children to practise operations such as addition and subtraction. Play the Magic Number game for traditional number work with a twist. “Let’s think of as many ways as possible to make number 12 using two numbers.” Possible answers

Evidence–based parent workshops and 1 to 1 coaching Topics include: Maths learning, persistence, confidence, resilience Also working with home educating families

Contact Anastasia on 07532 442007 or email: anastasia@ostrakinda.co.uk

www.ostrakinda.co.uk

are 10+2=12, 6+6=12, 24÷2=12, 3x4=12. Involve the whole family and turn this into a competition. Children will love it! Read more about Summer Maths at www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Anastasia Pappa runs Ostrakinda Education Consultancy and Parent Coaching. Visit www.ostrakinda.co.uk

= 2=12 3x4=12 +

6+6=12 24÷

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To find out more about the 11+ and how to prepare your child visit:

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www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

r able 50 e t s ail 778 0 a T Av 1926 ys ay on 0 a D d o

ll t

Arnold Lodge, the only school that selects on potential and not on attainment

Make Arnold Lodge your 1st choice for private co-education in September 2014.

WarwickSchool 87 by 130 September OD 2014 Mnla_Layout 1 09/06/2014

I can already see an improvement in their confidence, ability and approach to their english work. I only wish that I’d found you sooner! Mrs Ward mother of 8 & 5 year olds (Leamington Spa)

Maths & English Tuition Centre üFollows the national curriculum from 4-15 year olds üTailor-made learning programme üThe only external learning programme to be adopted in schools Centres in Leamington Spa, Kenilworth & Balsall Common

Tel: 01926 259 644

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www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Open Morning Saturday 20 September 2014 Junior and Senior Schools 9.30am - 12.30pm Scholarships and bursaries available

Warwick School

Independent boys’ school (7-18 years)

For details and a prospectus please contact: The Admissions Registrar T: 01926 776400 E: admissions@warwickschool.org www.warwickschool.org

Education If they can locate important places, it will make them feel more in control.

6 Can they use scissors? Teachers look for this in the early stages of Reception to evaluate dexterity. Get crafty over the next few months.

7 Do they understand discipline? It’s important your child understands what’s expected of them when they arrive at school. They need to know hitting, kicking, biting and hair pulling will not be tolerated. Not only will it bring your child to the attention of the head teacher for all the wrong reasons, but it will make your child unpopular with their classmates. Reputations earned in the early days of school tend to stick and can be hard to shake off.

8 Can they communicate with an

adult?

10 things your child should be able to do when they begin school

by Sarah Butters

If your child starts ‘big school’ this September, it’s time to start preparing. Forget force feeding them phonics, this is about getting your child ready for the social challenges of school. The more prepared they are, the easier they will settle and the more they’ll get out of those early days.

1 Can they dress themselves? Imagine the scene. One teacher faced with thirty children and their coats. By the time each child is zipped up and wrapped up, playtime is over. If your child is able to go some way to helping, they may get some fresh air. If you can see buttons on trousers and skirts becoming a problem during the post PE change, invest in elasticated waistbands. These will also help during any ‘last minute’ toilet visits. Avoid tights in the early days - they can also lead to unnecessary bathroom accidents. With shoes, laces and buckles are a no-no. Stick to Velcro fastenings which your child can do themselves.

2 Are they used to sharing? Sharing is a difficult lesson for a child to learn, especially if they only start learning it at school. But it’s a vital lesson if you want your child to settle in and make friends easily. No one wants to play with the boy who refuses to take turns and share, and before long that child becomes isolated. Start to make a point of praising your pre-schooler for sharing his bag of figures or his last few sweets.

3 Can they use the toilet on their

own?

Reception classrooms usually have a toilet nearby but children are expected to use it on their own. That can mean less confident children avoid a visit until it’s too late. Encourage your child to begin taking toilet trips without you to build up their confidence. Remind them that hand washing is part of the ‘visit’. Beginning school toilet training now will mean fewer accidents in September.

4 Are they able to eat

independently?

Lunchtimes can be a real flashpoint in the early days of your child’s school life. Dinner halls are noisy places and can make a child feel overwhelmed. Make sure they arrive at school able to pick up and use a knife and fork. Show them how to open a yoghurt, put a straw in a juice box and unpeel a banana. With school a few months off, it may seem like the easier option to feed them, but it won’t help in the long run. Practice, however painful, makes perfect.

Are they able to recognise their

5 name?

If your child can recognise their name, they’ll be able to find their peg, identify their drawer in the classroom and find their cardigan if it gets misplaced. Starting school can make even the most confident child feel a little lost.

Giving your child the skills to communicate with their teacher means they will be able to have some control. How else will they ask to go to the toilet? If they don’t understand how to get the attention of an adult, how will they let their teacher know they don’t understand their work? A child who can communicate will get more out of the school day than a child who is unwilling to speak up. Encourage your child to ask and even practice with a raised hand at home to make sure they understand the most appropriate way of getting a grownup’s attention.

9 Are they able to count? If your child can count up to 20, and count back from 10, this will give them a really good head start. Use some of their favourite toys or foods to make counting fun. Lay out 10 grapes and get them to eat them one by one, counting as they go. It will give them confidence and help them see learning as fun. Plus it’s a great way to get one of their 5 a day down them!

10 Can they follow simple

instructions?

The school day is full of instructions. Your child will be asked to put coats on pegs, walk quietly in corridors and sit cross-legged on the carpet for circle time. If a child is used to following instructions, they will avoid being reprimanded. The more time a teacher dedicates to repeating instructions and encouraging co-operation, the less time there is for teaching. Start giving your child simple tasks – perhaps helping with the weekly shop or with some straightforward jobs around the house. It will prepare them for school life. SOME BOOKS YOU MAY FIND USEFUL: I am too absolutely small for school (Charlie and Lola) by Lauren Child Topsy and Tim Start School by Jean Adamson Starting School Sticker Book (Usborne) by Felicity Brooks Going to School (Usborne First Experiences) by Anna Civardi Starting School by Janet and Allan Ahlberg

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities • Courses mapped to the National Curriculum. • Adapts to the individual needs of your child. • Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week. • Award-winning tuition - voted Education Investor Supplementary Education Provider of the Year. “Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.” Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

are s c ild her ! h C uc pted Vo acce

King Henry VIII

Prep & Senior School

www.khviii.com | T: 024 7627 1111 Senior School Open Events… Open House: Friday 10th October

Open Morning: Saturday 11th October King Henry VIII School welcomes boys and girls between 3 and 18 years of age, providing a first class education in a caring, supportive environment.

King Henry VIII School, Warwick Road, Coventry CV3 6AQ

E: info@khviii.net

A leading co-educational day school, since 1545

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Education Independent Schools Contact Details and Open Days Arnold Lodge Leamington Spa CV32 5TW T: 01926 778050 E: info@arnoldlodge.com www.arnoldlodge.com Bablake Pre Prep Coventry CV1 2LH T: 024 7622 1677 E: bablakepreprep@bablakejs.co.uk Bablake Junior School Coventry CV1 4AU T: 024 7627 1260 E: jhmsec@bablakejs.co.uk www.bablakejuniorschool.co.uk Sat 4 Oct, 10am-12noon: Open Morning Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery Kenilworth CV8 2FT T: 01926 514444 E: post@crackleyhall.co.uk www.crackleyhall.co.uk Thurs 9 Oct, 10am-3pm: Open Day The Croft Preparatory School Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 7RL T: 01789 293795 E: office@croftschool.co.uk www.croftschool.co.uk Weds 17 Sept, 2pm-4pm: Open Afternoon Sat 27 Sept, 10am-12pm: Toddler Fun Day King Henry VIII Prep School Coventry CV3 6PT T: 024 7627 1307 E: headmaster@khps.co.uk www.khps.co.uk Sat 11 Oct, 9.30am-12.30pm: Open Morning The Kingsley Preparatory School Leamington Spa CV32 5RD T: 01926 421368 E: carolewatson@ kingsleyschool.co.uk (Registrar) www.thekingsleyschool.com Weds 2 July, 5.30pm-7.30pm: Senior School Open Evening Sat 13 Sept, time tbc: Taster Morning for Year 7 (entry Sept 2015) Sat 4 Oct, 11am-1pm: Prep School Open Morning Sat 4 Oct, 2pm-4.30pm: Senior School Open Afternoon Tues 14 Oct, 7pm: Sixth Form Open Evening

Stratford Preparatory School Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6BG T: 01789 297993 E: secretary@stratfordprep.co.uk www.stratfordprep.co.uk

Classes on Tuesday, Friday 3.30pm - 6.30pm and Saturday 9.00am - 11.00am

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS Humphrey’s Tiny Tales: My Really Wheely Racing Day!

Warwick School Warwick CV34 6PP T: 01926 776400 E: enquiries@warwickschool.org www.warwickschool.org Sat 20 Sep, 9.30am-12.30pm: Junior and Senior School Open Morning

by Betty G Birney (Faber £3.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Humphrey has lots of friends in Room 26 where he is the class hamster but he is delighted to make a new pal Winky. When he sees Winky’s new hamster racing car he thinks it is unsqueakably wonderful and decides he wants a set of wheels of his own. At school a hamster race is set up and Humphrey practises hard but when his car rolls against a wooden block will he be able to zoom across the finishing line first?

Senior Schools

Bablake Senior School Coventry CV1 4AU T: 024 7627 1200 E: info@bablake.coventry.sch.uk www.bablake.com King Henry VIII Senior School Coventry CV3 6AQ T: 024 7627 1111 E: info@khviii.net www.kinghenrys.co.uk Fri 10 Oct, 9.30am-12.30pm: Open House Sat 11 Oct, 9.30am-12.30pm: Open Morning

‘Here is another FUN-FUN-FUN story in this super series for young readers who can enjoy Humphrey’s latest adventure reading on their own or reading together.’

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

King’s High Warwick CV34 4HJ T: 01926 494485 E: enquiries@kingshighwarwick.co.uk www.kingshighwarwick.co.uk Sat 27 Sept, 9.30am-12 noon: Open Morning

SWARM: Operation Sting by Simon Cheshire (Stripes £5.99)

Princethorpe College Rugby CV23 9PX T: 01926 634201 E: elainewarwick@princethorpe.co.uk www.princethorpe.co.uk Rugby School Rugby CV22 5EH T: 01788 556274 E: admissions@rugbyschool.net www.rugbyschool.net

ED SAYS: ‘The Secret Intelligence Agency’s new weapon SWARM is set on a mission. The robotic bugs working as undercover agents are put into action to locate a stolen device that has the power to wreak havoc on the world’s electronic communications. Will SWARM be able to recover the device before the encryption code is cracked and the villains have their evil way? ‘This is an action-packed page-turner of a book by this fantastic writer. It is the first book in this adventure series featuring robot technology.’

Scam on the Cam

by Clementine Beauvais (Hodder £6.99) ED SAYS: ‘Sesame Seade has reason to be suspicious about the strange goings-on by the river. She is rather halfhearted about being part of a rowing crew herself but she becomes very interested in certain events in the build-up to the Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge. When the Cambridge crew go down one by one with a mysterious bug it’s time for Sesame to get into supersleuth mode.

Centre now open Saturdays

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

These books, and more, are all available online from Ed’s Reading Room at www.edontheweb.com

Warwick Preparatory School Warwick CV34 6PL T: 01926 491545 E: admissions@warwickprep.com www.warwickprep.com Sat 4 Oct, 9.30am-12 noon: Open Morning

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to build your child’s confidence and inspire a passion for learning. Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment. Leamington Spa Study Centre Sarah Brown 01926 676424

Ed’s Reading Room

kumon.co.uk

‘This is a brilliantly written hilarious story peppered with super illustrations. Sesame is a fantastic character and a very smart heroine.

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Clubs and Classes

Cheerleading Champs!

✭ UK Champions 2007-2014 ✭ Pom Dance ✭ Hip Hop ✭ Stunt ✭ Gymnastics ✭ Classes held on Sundays at Aylesford School, Warwick ✭ Ages 3 - Adult ✭ Classes from £4.25

RLS Cheer & Dance started in 2006 on the back of the popularity of an extra-curricular club at North Leamington School. Since then the squad has gone from strength to strength and now boasts over 100 members, both male and female, aged 3 to adult. The cheerleaders take part in all disciplines of the sport, in particular Pom Dance, Hip Hop, Stunting and floor based Gymnastics. All coaches are highly qualified, fully insured and CRB checked. Training takes place weekly on Sundays at Aylesford School in Warwick.

rlselite@hotmail.co.uk

Facebook: Royal Leamington Sparklers

07788 728473

Stick and Squidge

The team train for National and International Competitions as well as dedicating their time to their chosen charity, Rugby4Heroes, based in Leamington. With numerous UK titles since 2007 under their belt, the team have also qualified for the European Championships for the past 3 years and gained a 2nd place in the Junior Stunt category in 2013 in Italy.

Current sessions running in Wellesbourne & Warwick. Please visit the website for Perfect for ages 2½ -5yrs more details. New under 2’s sessions coming soon

Pre-booking & payment essential

www.caterpillarcorner.co.uk

To find out more about the fun, weekly classes, call Kim on 07788 728473 or email rlselite@hotmail.co.uk Facebook: Royal Leamington Sparklers

The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA) is a weekend performing arts academy providing tuition for children and young people from 4-18. It is opening a brand new academy at Aylesford School and Sixth Form College in Warwick and welcomes you to a free open day on Saturday 27 September from 9.45am-1pm. At the open day, you will find out more about the organisation and your children will have the opportunity to get a flavour of The Academy. Visit www.pqacademy.com/locations/warwick to find out more, order an information pack or enrol your child. See PQA’s advert on page 5.

Fun and action packed sessions which develop physical skills and boost self-confidence! www.tumbletots.com/warwick 01926 856 313 Calypso Kids Pre-school Music Classes for children aged 6 months - 4 years Classes are held at Townsend Hall, Sheep Street, Shipston on Stour CV36 4AE Wednesdays at 9.20am, 10.15am & 11.00am Fridays at 10.00am & 11.00am What’s in the lilly pad today? £3.50 per class when paying for a half-term block in advance or £4.50 a class to pay-as-you-play. Discounts are available for siblings.

Book a FREE Taster Class. Tel: 07890 399162 www.calypsokids.co.uk

Internationally Acclaimed Dance Company Seeks Local Youngsters For Summer Intensive Courses! Leamington-based dance company Motionhouse is offering youngsters and dance students the opportunity to work with them this summer. Energetic and enthusiastic 8-12 year olds and 14-19 year olds with existing experience in dance are being offered a fantastic opportunity to participate in two workshops this summer, focussing on creativity, technique, choreography and building confidence. The Motionhouse Junior Summer Intensive is open to everyone and is an informal and fun way to keep youngsters aged between 8 and 12 years occupied and energised during the summer holidays. The high energy course will allow youngsters to explore acrobatic moves and partnering, develop new skills and make new friends as they work together to create a short piece for performance. For the budding The Motionhouse Youth Summer Intensive has been star in your designed for 14–19 year olds and is a unique and family! invaluable opportunity for youngsters with dance Sparkle tots performing experience to keep active during the summer break. ballet classes, The residency will allow experienced young dancers and arts and 2 years plus dance students to develop their skills and technique Boyz Only Street Dance and work intensively to create dynamic and exciting class, 4 years plus choreographic material during the weeklong project. For more information or to book a place call 01926 887052 or email info@motionhouse.co.uk. See the Motionhouse advert on page 16.

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Musical Theatre, Ballet Contact Natalie on 0845 017 0825 or and Street Dance classes, 4 years plus email: sparkleperformers@gmail.com

to book a free trial session.

You’re never too old, never too bad, never too late and never too sick to start from scratch once again.

Tel: 01926 495312

www.bikramyogawarwickshire.co.uk

warwickshire

Advertise in the Clubs and Classes feature in Sept/Oct issue. Call 01926 335004 or email editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Summer holidays

Great family days out right on your doorstep You don’t need to go far during the summer holidays to have a great day out. There are so many attractions for all the family within a stone’s throw away so why not visit somewhere you’ve driven past hundreds of times but not been to before? Get up close and personal with farm animals or wild animals; be Romans, knights or princesses for the day; explore beautiful houses, play hide and seek in stunning gardens and let the kids burn off some energy in breathtaking parklands; take a trip on a steam train or a ride in a Land Rover – you and your family are spoilt for choice! There are some great parks in Warwickshire – so pack up a picnic and spend a fun family day out. Lots of space for the children to run around, trees to climb and many have a playground. Take a football, a frisbee, a skipping rope or a set of boules and set up your own mini sports day! Some parks have paddling pools – try The Recreation ground in Stratford-upon-Avon, St Nicholas Park in Warwick and Victoria Park in Leamington Spa. How about going on a family bike ride? Children love cycling and, let’s face it, the sense of freedom you get when you’re whizzing along is so much fun whatever your age. It’s a great way to explore country parks and discover new places. See www.sustrans.org.uk for more information on cycling with kids. There are also maps with cycle routes you can download. For information on Warwickshire Country Parks, visit http://countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk/

ACE Lollies

Now the sun is finally here to stay how about making your own healthy lollies to keep kids cool on a summer’s day. Supermarket lollies can be full of sugar, sweeteners and colourings which amount to nothing more than empty calories. Make your own for a fun healthy boost. You can buy rocket moulds in most supermarkets or online. I made 6 ice lollies in my rocket mould with this recipe.

Ingredients Raspberry puree 170g punnet of raspberries ½ lime

‘J Bewley/Sustrans’ ©Sustrans

Families Warwickshire – full of summer holiday ideas! 12

Method 1. Whizz the raspberries, juice of half a lime and syrup with a hand blender. 2. You can push the puree through a sieve if you want a smoother puree but the seeds add fibre and none of my kids noticed! 3. Fill the lolly moulds half full of the raspberry mixture and place in the freezer for a couple of hours. 4. Whizz up the mango flesh, juice of half a lime, syrup and yogurt with a hand blender. If it seems too thick add a tablespoon of apple juice.

1tbsp of agave syrup, icing sugar or maple syrup

5. Pour on top of the semi frozen raspberry puree and push in the lolly sticks.

Mango puree

6. Leave to freeze overnight.

200g mango flesh

You may need to run the moulds under a warm tap to get them out. Enjoy!

½ lime 2tbsp full fat Greek yogurt 1 tbsp of agave syrup, icing sugar or maple syrup

Recipe supplied by Abi MacFarlane, Trainee Nutritionalist. Read her blog: abimacfarlane.wordpress.com

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Summer holidays BUY 1 DAY GET 12 MONTHS FREE!

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Summer Family Fun 19 JULY - 31 AUGUST

Join us for our 21st Birthday celebrations. Over 200 cars on show, interactive exhibits, cars to sit in, family activities & children’s play areafamily fun whatever the weather! • • • •

21 Motoring Icons Exhibition & Trail Lego Technic Tuesdays Auto Craft Thursdays Land Rover 4x4 Rides

Summer Spectacular 19th July to 1st September 2014

Under 5’s go FREE

www.heritage-motor-centre.co.uk/schoolholidays Heritage Motor Centre . Gaydon . Warwickshire . CV35 0BJ

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Terms and Conditions Only one voucher per transaction. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer - Not valid on 5 Show Days per year see website valid until 31/8/14

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NEW Intrepid Adventurers Challenge NEW Jungle Maze Superslide Mania - Massive Indoor Play Dome Hatton's Grand National The Great American Gold Rush NEW Wild West Activities NEW dinosaurs on our Eternity Engine ride Scales and Tails Reptile Handling House Falconry Centre All the Fun of the Fair Farmyard Favourites, Guinea Pig Village, JCB's and so much more

10% online discount for open tickets 25% online discount booked 5 days in advance Terms and Conditions apply - see website for details

Hatton Country World, just 5 minutes from J15 of the M40 (Warwick)

17292A 6/14

Tel: 01926 843411

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Summer holidays Ping! Time to unplug and reconnect with your family Joanna Moorhead has some ideas on how to do it Summer is a great time to enjoy being together with your nearest and dearest. But for many families these days, even together time is dominated by mobile phones, iPads, TV and other devices. According to a recent survey, though, even kids themselves recognise the need to unplug and welcome the chance to ‘do something different’. Here are our top 20 ideas for what that ‘something different’ might be, whether you’re home or away.

Build a den: whether you do this indoors or in the garden, or out in the woods or on the beach, you’ll have loads of fun.

Sleep under canvas: for families that haven’t camped before, even one night away, or in the back garden, can be a huge adventure.

Go wild swimming: swimming in a pond or lake, or in the sea, is a very different experience from an indoor pool. Go birdwatching: you don’t need to know anything about birds to enjoy watching them, but if you go to a birdwatching sanctuary or wetlands centre, you’ll learn loads. For more information see www.wwt.org.uk

Go fruit picking: not only will you have a good time, you’ll also be setting up your next family project - making jam!

Climb a big hill: this can be a mountain 11 or a fairly small hill, depending on how

Cook on a campfire: this is a perfect add-on to your camping adventure. Get advice online about how to build your fire and what foods are best to cook on it.

Go fishing: you can do this with a net 12 in the rock pools at the beach, or in a stream or river inland.

Go on a long bike ride: if you’ve all got your own bikes you probably do this all the time. If not, it can be a really fabulous and different day out to hire bikes and follow a cycle trail. Play a board game: a game like Monopoly or Cluedo, which children can play from a young age or can play in teams, is a genuinely bonding experience. Reorganise your family photographs: online galleries can be a great way of sharing pictures with relatives and friends – but there’s a huge amount of fun to be had from creating an old fashioned album together.

Borrow a dog for a weekend: if you’re 10 not a dog-owning family, having one

on loan for a few days can be a hugely rewarding experience. See www.borrowmydoggy.com

old your children are.

Have a snail race: find some snails, and 13 set up the course; place bets on which snail will win, and watch the action unfold.

Go star-gazing: do some research 14 beforehand, and when you get a clear

evening, head off to a space where the sky is open in search of the North Star, the Big Dipper and Orion.

Hunt for treasure or bones: beaches can 15 be great places for this, or look online to see if there are any ‘treasure troves’ near.

Go geocaching: ok, so this is one 16 activity you will need your mobile

phone for. But the high-tech treasure hunt is fascinating, and it pulls all members of the family in. Try it! More information at www.geocaching.com

Switch roles in the kitchen: if you’re 17 usually the meal-maker, and the

children are usually the table-setters, do things the other way round.

A British Museum Tour

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t Get se tionc a for an r of summe packed fun y il fam roman t art herber at the eum s y & mu Galler t n and lu fort! n a m o r

16 May – 31 August 2014 www.theherbert.org

The exhibition has been developed in partnership between Bristol Museums, Galleries & Archives and the British Museum.

Supported through the generosity of the Dorset Foundation

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Summer holidays Have a family talent show: this is a good one when you have another 18 family or relatives visiting. Everyone has to do a turn; no wriggling out allowed, however shy the mums and dads are.

Make a family journal or scrap book: this can be a good project for a 19 family holiday or a school holiday. Like a talent show, everyone needs

to contribute something – a review of a local pub, an account of a day out, or a book review.

a kite: they’re cheap and easy to buy, or you can even make your 20 Fly own. Read up on tips about how to fly them at © National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.

www.thekitesociety.org.

Events and Activities BECOME AN

EXPLORER TODAY!

WORKSHOPS — TRAILS AND WALKS — QUIZZES — DINO DIG CRAFTS — ANIMALS — INDOOR AND OUTDOOR DINOSAURS

summer fun

Come and explore the great outdoors with all the family this summer at your local National Trust properties. A whole host of family fun activities, games and explorer trails await you at Baddesley Clinton, Charlecote Park, Coughton Court, Packwood House and Upton House & Gardens.

nationaltrust.org.uk

All Things Wild Nature Centre, Station Road, Honeybourne, WR11 7QZ 01386 833083

www.allthingswild.co.uk

SUMMER EVENTS • • • •

Knights & Princesses Academy Mon 28 July – Fri 1 August 11am – 5pm Royals & Rebels Mon 4 – Fri 8 August 11am – 5pm Heroes & Villains Mon 11 – Fri 15 August 11am – 5pm Medieval Fun & Games Mon 18 – Fri 22 August 11am – 5pm

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Summer holidays Camps, Classes and Workshops For further information on holiday workshops, contact the individual organisations or vist www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

In Stratford District:

Hi-5 Holiday Activities Lots of free and affordable holiday activities for children and young people, throughout five weeks of the school summer holidays. Go to www.stratford.gov.uk/leisure/holidayactivities.cfm or call 01789 260643.

In Warwick District:

go to www.warwickdc.gov.uk/leisure, click on Young people’s activities, then Holiday activities to download the activity booklet.

History Detectives Agency Fun Holiday Club

St John’s Museum, Warwick CV34 4NF Join the History Detectives Agency. Play games and get crafty on these special day long workshops. 9.30am-4pm. £24 per day. Discounts for 2 or more sessions. For ages 6-12. Tues 29 July Into Battle - Find out how battles were fought in the past, from the Romans to the First World War. Weds 30 July Beasts and Birds - Learn about the beasts and birds all around us. Go on a

hunt and look for tracks. Thurs 31 July A Grand Day Out - What did Victorians do on their days off? Come and find out! Tues 5 Aug Dig! - Become an archaeologist for the day and do lots of exploring. Weds 6 Aug Pills and Potions - Discover how medicine has changed over time. Make some old remedies and your own film about your findings. Thurs 7 Aug Princesses to Pot Cleaners Discover everything about castle life in the past: what people ate, how they amused themselves, what jobs they did. T: 01926 412504 www.warwickshire.gov.uk/heritage Warwickshire County Council’s Heritage and Culture team are also running lots of drop in events. Details can be found on the above website.

MULTI-ACTIVITY and SPORTS Horse Riding Fun Days and Holidays

Warwick International School of Riding, Coventry Road, Warwick CV34 5YD Fun lessons, riding around the grounds and games. T: 01926 494393 www.warwickridingholidays.co.uk

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at Warwick School Warwick School provides an ever expanding range of holiday activities. Open to everyone, these courses provide a fun way to experience new or favourite activities. 9.00am to 4.30pm - with extended day available. Including - new powered go karts ✷skateboarding✷cartooning✷and special world cup activities/competitions

4-5 Years, Early Years including - new for this summer - Lion Learners mini zoo

12-14 Years, Action Plus w/c 28 July and 4 August Includes off site activities each day - see web site for more details

All enquiries to the Course Director, Eileen Braham T 01926 735473 E ebr@warwickschool.org

See website for details of all activities and to make a booking

www.warwickschool.org/Summer-Action-2014 16

The Croft Preparatory School, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 7RL Mon 28 July-Fri 29 Aug Multi Activity – up to 40 activities for ages 4-14 Raw Adventure – survival skills for ages 7-14 A Passion For – creative workshops including arts, invention, cooking for ages 6-16 T: 01235 467300 www.supercamps.co.uk

Activate Sports

The Croft Preparatory School, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 7RL Mon 14-Weds 16 July International Netball Roadshow Mon 21-Fri 25 July Andrew Flintoff Cricket Academy Mon 29 July-Fri 1 Aug Brendan Cole Dance Academy T: 01785 711572 www.activatesport.co.uk

Coundon Court, Coundon, Coventry CV6 2AJ Multi sports, dance and activities Mon 28 July-Fri 1 Aug Mon 4-Fri 8 Aug Mon 11-Fri 15 Aug Mon 18-Fri 22 Aug For ages 4-13

09/06/2014 08:05:12

(exc. Friday 22/Monday 25 August)

6-11 Years, Superchoice Programme

Super Camps

North Leamington School, Leamington Spa CV32 6RD Multi sports, dance and activities Mon 21-Fri 25 July Mon 28 July-Fri 1 Aug Mon 4-Fri 8 Aug Mon 11-Fri 15 Aug Mon 18-Fri 22 Aug Wed 27- Fri 29 Aug For ages 4-13

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16 July 29 August 2014

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Warwick School, Warwick CV34 6PP Weds 16 July-Fri 29 Aug (excluding Fri 22 and Mon 25 Aug) 9am-4.30pm (extended day available) Early Years Multi-Activities for ages 4-5 Superchoice Programme for ages 6-11 Action Plus for ages 12-14 T: 01926 735473 www.warwickschool.org/ summer-action-2014

Aspire Active Camps

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Summer Action

T: 08455 08 27 34 www.aspire-sports.co.uk

Fit for Sport

Stratford Leisure Centre, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6YY Six fantastically theme weeks, full of sports and fun activities. Mon 21-Fri 25 July Mon 28 July-Fri 1 August Mon 4-Fri 8 August Mon 11-Fri 15 August Mon 18-Fri 22 August Mon 2-Fri 29 August 9.30am-4.30pm Extended day 8.30am-5.30pm For ages 5-7 and 8-12 T: 0845 456 3233 www.fitforsport.co.uk

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

FUN HORSE RIDING HOLIDAYS IN WARWICKSHIRE SE A E S BB N O C N

• • • • •

Lessons for all abilities Hacks WIN A Clear round jumping ROSET TE Cross Country Course Fun on the one mile circular gallop • Come for a days riding • Games and Gymkhanas • Easter, May and Summer holidays Please call 01926 494313 or email janet@warwickriding.co.uk for a brochure

Warwick International School of Riding

Guys Cliffe, Coventry Road, Warwick CV34 5YD www.warwickridingholidays.co.uk e:janet@warwickriding.co.uk

GO4GOALS

Summer Football or Multi Sports Camps Kingsley School playing fields, Leamington Spa CV32 6RD Mon 4-Thurs 7 August Mon 11-Thurs 14 August Mon 18-Thurs 21 August Mon 25-Thurs 28 August 9.30am-3.30pm (early drop off 8.45am) For ages 4 to 11 T: 07747 562469 www.go4goals.co.uk

ARTS and CRAFTS

Art Base Art Workshops

Fantastic range of creative arts and crafts workshops, including painting, paper suclture, mixed media on canvas, ‘Eric Carle’ and ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ themed days and lots more. The Croft Preparatory School, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 7RL Mon 14 -Fri 18 July and Mon 21-Fri 25 July, 9am-3pm The Armouries, Nr Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 0JA Mon 21-Thur 24 July, Mon 28-Thurs 31 July and Mon 4-Thurs 7 August, 9.30am-3.30pm All workshops £30 per day. T: 01789 774705 www.art-base.co.uk

DANCE, DRAMA and MUSIC Glittering Stars

North Hall, Spencer Yard, Leamington Spa CV31 3SY

Tues 29 July Animation workshop – ‘Stars Wars’ Thurs 31 July Produce a short film in a day Mon 4 Aug Animation workshop – ‘Doctor Who’ Fri 8 Aug Star in your own reality show ‘All Seeing Eye’ 10am-3pm For ages 8-16 T: 01926 430307 or 07792 576573 E: glittering.stars@mail.com

Motionhouse Summer Intensive

Spencer Yard, Leamington Spa CV31 3SY Tue 29 Jul-Fri 1 Aug 10am-12.30pm New summer dance classes for ages 8-12 Mon 4-Fri 8 Aug 11am-4.30pm New summer dance classes for ages 14-19 T: 01926 887052 www.motionhouse.co.uk

Stratford Music Centre Summer School

Stratford College, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 9QR Mon 4-Fri 8 Aug Includes Rock School, Street Dance, Song Factory, Fashion and Circus Skills For ages 7+, 7-12 and 10-16 T: 01789 263620 www.stratfordmusiccentre.org.uk

Stagecoach Holiday Workshops

Trinity Catholic School, Leamington Spa CV32 6NB Mon 4-Fri 8 Aug 9.30am-12.30pm Singing, dance and drama for ages 4-6. Mon 4-Fri 8 Aug 10am-4pm Singing, dance, drama and production for ages 6-18. T: 07976 608574 www.stagecoach.co.uk/leamingtonspa

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Playbox Theatre

Warwick CV34 6XR Mon 21-Fri 25 July, 10am-4pm Circus School for ages 7-14 Mon 28 July-Fri 1 Aug, 10am-4pm Mary Poppins Musical Theatre Week for ages 8-18 Mon 4-Fri 8 Aug, 10am-4pm Strictly Showbiz for ages 8-18 Mon 4-Tues 5 Aug, 10am-4pm I like children...fried! For ages 5-11 Wed 6-Fri 8 Aug, 10am-4pm Peter Pan for ages 5-11 Mon 21-Fri 25 July, 10am-4pm District 12 for ages 9-17 High Jinks Creative Workshops 10am-1pm for ages 3-7 Mon 21 & Thurs 31 July The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Thurs 24 July & Mon 4 Aug Teddy Bear’s Picnic Mon 28 July & Thurs 7 Aug Run Away To The Circus Disney Days: Tues 22 July: Rapunzel Tues 29 July: The Snow Queen Tues 5 August: The Monster Mash Fri 25 July, Fri 1 and Fri 8 Aug TPI FRIDAY! ”Thank Playbox It’s Friday” The Mid-Week Knees Up! 10am-4pm for ages 5-10 Weds 23 July: Oliver! Weds 30 July: Matilda Weds 6 Aug: The Lion King T: 01926 419555 www.playboxtheatre.com

Summer holidays What’s on? There’s so much happening this summer! For more ideas on where to go and what to do, go to

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk All Things Wild

Honeybourne, Nr Evesham WR11 7QZ T: 01386 833083 www.allthingswild.co.uk Step Through Time this summer from Saturday 19 July. Explore lifesize dinosaur models, British wildlife, exotic animals and lots more!

Brandon Marsh Nature Centre

Coventry CV3 3GW T: 024 7630 2912 www.warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk Tues 22 July-Fri 29 Aug Summer Holiday Activities Loads of hands-on activities for very little cost. Tons of fun for all the family. Includes den building, pond dipping, arts and crafts, and lots more. See website for full listings.

Compton Verney

Compton Verney CV35 9HZ T: 01926 645500 www.comptonverney.org.uk Sat 2-Fri 29 Aug, 11am-4pm Clay Modelling Try your hand at using clay to create a model of your head, hands or feet. Until Sun 24 Aug, 11am-5pm Bunting World Record Attempt We are attempting to break a world record by making the longest line of bunting. Come and help! Until Sun 31 Aug, 11am-5pm Create a living sculpture: You – The 12th Plinth Stand on the empty 12th plinth, strike a pose and create a living sculpture. Until Sun 31 Aug, 11am-5pm Moore Rodin Trail A trail to guide you around the Moore Rodin exhibition both inside the Galleries and outside in the park. All summer Free family backpacks enable you and your children to explore our collections through a range of exciting activities. There are packs for all children from 18 months up. Grounds Trail Pick up a free grounds trail and explore the 120 acres of Compton Verney’s parkland with fun hands on activities for children and adults to enjoy together. Adventure Playground Suitable for all ages. Climb, swing and explore in our children’s adventure playground, hidden away in the Christmas tree plantation.

Hatton Adventure World

Nr Warwick CV35 8XA T: 01926 843411 www.hattonworld.com/farmvillage Sat 19 July-Mon 1 Sept Summer Spectacular! A full day’s programme of summer entertainment. New for 2014 includes the ‘Wild West’, Jungle Maze and dinosaur spotting on the Timewarp Tractor Ride. Plus farmyard favourites, Guinea pig village and lots more.

Herbert Art Gallery

Coventry CV1 5QP T: 024 7623 7521 www.theherbert.org On now until Sunday 31 Aug Roman Empire: Power and People The largest ever UK exhibition of Roman artefacts on loan from the British Museum. Visit the website to see the full programme of events accompanying this exhibition. Weds 23-Thurs 24 July, drop in from 10.30am Poos from the past! An archaeological dig with a difference! For ages 5+. FREE. Fri 25 & Sat 26 July, 10am-4pm Meet the Archaeologists Meet members of local archaeological group and handle some of the Roman artefacts that they’ve discovered! FREE with exhibition entry. Mon 28 July-Thurs 21 Aug Rome-ing around Four weeks of Roman related family friendly fun! Running Mon-Thurs, lots of hands on activities throughout the day. Some activities are free. See website for full timetable. Weds 27 Aug, 11.30am-1pm & 1.30pm-3pm Picnic time! Bring a picnic and feast in a specially decorated area of the museum, joined by Romans! Booking is essential. See website for full information. See back page for a chance to win a family ticket to The Herbert.

Heritage Motor Centre

Gaydon CV34 0BJ T: 01926 641188 – General enquiries T: 01926 645120 – Event enquiries and bookings www.heritage-motor-centre.co.uk Sat 19 July-Sun 31 Aug, 10am-5pm Summer Holiday Family Activities Help celebrate the centre’s 21st birthday with lots of family activities. Automotive sessions running Monday to Thursday throughout the six weeks. Get ‘hands on’ on Mondays, join in with ‘Lego Technic Tuesdays’, become an engineer on ‘Wheelie Lego Wednesdays’ and get creative with ‘Auto Crafty Thursdays’. All this as well as over 200 cars on show, interactive exhibits, cars to sit in and children’s play area. Other special events include Junior Curator Morning, Fast and Furious Friday, Time Travelling Toby, Scooter Workshops and Mini Movers. See website for full programme of events.

Kenilworth Castle

Kenilworth CV8 1NE T: 01926 852078 www.english-heritage.org.uk/ kenilworthcastle Sat 12 & Sun 13 July, 11am-5pm Grand Medieval Joust Jousting knights, court jesters, medieval camp, music, dance, games and falconry.

Mon 28 July–Fri 1 Aug, 11am-5pm Knights & Princesses Academy Join our academy for budding knights and princesses, with hands on medieval fun. Mon 4-Fri 8 Aug, 11am-5pm Royals & Rebels What sort of Royal will you be? Grab your crown and find out if you have what it takes! Mon 11-Fri 15 Aug, 11am-5pm Heroes & Villains Could you be a fearsome outlaw? Your training starts here! Mon 18-Fri 22 Aug, 11am-5pm Medieval Fun & Games Join us for a journey back through the ages to medieval times and find out what life would have been like, with hands on activities and games. Sun 24 & Mon 25 Aug, 11am-5pm Clash of the Knights – The Finale! Pick your favourite knight and cheer him on!

National Trust Properties

Get outside and explore the grounds, gardens and woods of our local National Trust properties - how many of the 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ can you tick off during the summer holidays? Visit the National Trust website for lots of ideas. For Outdoor Theatre, see Theatre listings opposite. Charlecote Park Nr Wellesbourne CV35 9ER T: 01789 470277 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ charlecote Tues 22 Jul, Tues 5 Aug & Tues 19 Aug, 1111.30am & 12-12.30pm Family Park Safari Join us for a tractor pulled trailer ride through the park. This short ride is a great opportunity to see the sheep and deer that live in the park. Perfect family treat during school holidays. Upton House Nr Banbury OX15 6HT T: 01295 670266 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ uptonhouse 12 July, 7pm Jazz Party on The Lawn Enjoy sunset and jazz on the lawn with The Charleston 5 and a demonstration of dance with Hoppin Mad. Bring a picnic to enjoy with the music. Pimms, champagne and coffee available. Call booking office 0844 249 1895 or book online. Baddesley Clinton Baddesley Clinton B93 0DQ T: 01564 783294 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ baddesleyclinton Coughton Court Alcester B49 5JA T: 01789 400777 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ coughtoncourt Packwood House Lapworth B94 6AT T: 01564 782024 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ packwood Don’t miss the fascinating and quirky Packwood Follies. The children will love to discover them and go inside the ‘Inside Out House’!

Priory Visitor Centre

Priory Row, Coventry CV1 5EX T: 024 7623 7523 www.theherbert.org/whats-on/ events-exhibitions/summer-holidayspriory-visitor-centre Mon 21 July-Fri 29 Aug Six weeks of FREE family friendly fun! All events run Mon-Fri, 10.30am-3pm, are drop in and suitable for ages 4+. Lots of hands on activities. See website for full listings.

Ryton Pools Country Park Bubbenhall CV8 3BH T: 024 7630 5592 countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk

Mon 21 July-Sun 31 Aug Jam-packed programmes of activities at very small cost. Make sun catchers, dream catchers, mini beast hotels; go on a pirate trail or a bug hunt; build a survival den, go pond dipping or take part on the wild woods challenge. For full programme of activities, visit the website. Regular activities at Ryton include: Every Wednesday, in holidays and term time, 10am-11.30am Toddler Trundle A weekly event for the tiniest of tiddlers! £3 per toddler. Weds 23 & 30 July, 6, 13 and 20 & 27 Aug, 11am-1pm Birds of Prey A regular event with local birds of prey experts. FREE (donations welcome to animal welfare charities). Creepy Crawly Kids Club A fun session of environmental games and activities, exploring what’s in and around the park – held monthly throughout the year. For ages 3 to 12. £1 per child. Special Family event: Sun 3 Aug, 7pm-10pm Wild Evening Out As dusk falls, join the hunt for nocturnal wildlife. Start off by pond dipping, followed by shelter building in the wood. As it gets darker, have a go at bat detecting before checking the moth traps. Finish off the night around a camp fire with jacket potatoes and hot chocolate. We provide jacket potatoes, bring your fillings. Adults £10, Conc £5. Booking essential.

The Shakespeare Express

Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6GR T: 0121 708 4960 www.shakespeareexpress.com Sun 20 July-Sun 7 Sep Summer Steam Train Service Round trip from Stratford-upon-Avon and Henley-in-Arden to Birmingham on classic steam train. Sunday lunch an optional extra.

The Shakespeare Houses www.shakespeare.org.uk Sat 19 July-Sun 31 Aug Summer Holiday Family Activities

Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Henley Street, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6QW Your Presence Needs Must Puzzle Get cracking and break the codes at Shakespeare’s Birthplace! See if you can solve our perplexing puzzles and reveal more about Shakespeare and his Tudor life. New Place and Nash’s House, Chapel Street, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6EP Discovery Tent (11am - 3pm daily) Dig through the history of

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Shakespeare’s final home in our archaeological tent, filled with hands on activities for all ages to enjoy.

Theatre and Performance

Hall’s Croft, Old Town, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6BG Murder Mystery Trail Turn detective and see if you can track down whodunnit in our fun trail at Hall’s Croft (don’t worry, no Shakespeare characters were harmed in the making of this crime-solving activity!). Picture Perfect Enter our competition by drawing a picture of what you think Shakespeare’s daughter Susanna might have looked like.

Heartbreak Productions

Mary Arden’s Farm Wilmcote CV37 9UN Sat 26 & Sun 27 July Crafty Beasts Join us on the farm for a celebration of our rare breed animals and the skills of Tudor rural workers. Lots going on all day. Sat 23-Mon 25 Aug Tudor Harvest Fair Meet the woodsman, shepherd, midwife, maid and others at the job centre as they look for harvest work at our traditional Tudor Hiring Fair. Anne Hathaway’s Cottage Shottery CV37 9HH Sat 26 July Anne Hathaway’s Big Picnic Day Free activities and entertainments in the picturesque family home of Shakespeare’s wife.

Stratford Greenway

Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6GR countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk Thurs 7 Aug, 11am-12.30pm Nectar Inspectors Come and pick up a bug pot, sweep net, shaker sheet and ID guide and begin hunting among the wild flowers and long grasses for bugs, grasshoppers and butterflies. A Ranger will be on hand to give you some tips and advice. Meet at The Railway Carriage Cafe, Stratford end of The Greenway. £3 per child. Booking essential.

Also this summer: Leamington Summer Carnival Sat 12 July

For the first time since 1996, Leamington Carnival is back! Fun for all the family, watch the procession in the town then browse the stalls in the Pump Room Gardens. www.leamingtoncarnival.org.uk

Warwick Folk Festival

Thurs 24-Sun 27 July In its 35th year, Warwick Folk Festival offers so much for families, from the Festival site in the grounds of Warwick School to the eclectic stalls and free street entertainment in and around the town itself. www.warwickfolkfestival.co.uk

Leamington Food and Drink Festival Pump Room

Gardens, Leamington Spa CV32 4AA Sat 6 & Sun 7 Sept This free annual festival features an exciting action-packed programme over the two days. A fun filled weekend of activities and entertainment that will have everyone’s taste buds tingling and feet tapping! Children’s Make and Bake Cookery School, perfect for children of all ages, will be returning with plenty of cooking sessions for families. www.leamingtonfoodfestival.co.uk

Summer holidays

Heartbreak Productions’ outdoor performance of Peter Pan and The Lost Boys is taking place at the following venues. Please contact the individual box offices for tickets. Whether you’re five or 95, this energetic and enthralling adaptation guarantees audiences an enchanting experience! Charlecote Park Charlecote, Nr Warwick CV35 9ER www.nationaltrust.org.uk/charlecote Box Office: ¬0844 249 1895 Sat 19 July Packwood House Lapworth B94 6AT www.nationaltrust.org.uk/upton Box Office: ¬0844 249 1895 Fri 8 Aug St John’s House Museum Warwick CV34 4NF www.warwickshire.gov.uk/heartbreak Box Office: 01926 412132 Thurs 21 Aug

Belgrade Theatre

Coventry CV1 1GS www.belgrade.co.uk Box Office: 024 7655 3055 Tues 22 & Thurs 24 July Scooby Doo! The Mystery of the Pyramid The classic cartoon ScoobyDoo comes to life with spooky mystery and fun in the Pyramids.

Bridge House Theatre

Warwick CV34 6PP www.bridgehousetheatre.co.uk Box Office: 01926 776438 Sat 12 July The Wizard of Oz ASH Stage Productions bring their very own special edition of The Wizard of Oz to Warwick. Sun 13 July Gotta Dance Presented by The Leamington & Warwick Academy of Dance (LWAD). Come and see some of Warwickshire’s most talented performers.

Guide Dogs Open Day and car boot Saturday 19 July 11am - 4pm Guide Dogs Training School, Edmondscote Manor, Warwick New Road, Leamington, CV32 6AH For more info please phone Guide Dogs on 0845 372 7344 Registered charity in England and Wales (209617) and in Scotland (SC038979) 7440 06/14

THE HIT MUSICAL ADAPTATION OF THE AWARD WINNING PICTURE BOOK BY JULIA DONALDSON AND AXEL SCHEFFLER

Coughton Court

Alcester B49 5JA www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ coughtoncourt Box Office: 01789 400777 Fri 18 July, outdoor performance Romeo and Juliet The Chamberlain’s Men bring their unique performance to Coughton.

Playbox Theatre

Warwick CV34 6LE www.playboxtheatre.com Box Office: 01926 419555 ext 2 Weds 27-Sun 31 Aug The Secret Garden Memorable, moving and a hugely entertaining summer musical from Playbox Theatre.

Royal Spa Centre

Leamington Spa CV32 4HN www.royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk Box Office: 01926 334418 Weds 9 & Thurs 10 July The Whiteman Dance Academy Come and join this exciting group from Kenilworth on their bi-annual show Sat 2 Aug Milkshake! Live this brand new musical spectacular is sure to have children up on their feet and singing at the top of their voices!

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

“A FINE PIECE OF CHILDREN’S THEATRE” HHHH The Sunday Times

“MONSTROUS FUN!” HHHH Daily Mail

TUE 12 - SUN 24 AUGUST Box Office 0121 345 0603 www.thsh.co.uk

THURS 27 NOVEMBER 2014 – SUN 4 JANUARY 2015 Box Office 024 7652 4524 www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

tallstories.org.uk

Birmingham Town Hall

Birmingham CV32 4HN www.thsh.co.uk Box Office: 0121 345 0600 Tues 12-Sun 24 August The Gruffalo Don’t miss Tall Stories’ hit musical stage adaptation of the award winning picture book. See back page for a chance to win a family ticket to this event.

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Competitions Oh Help! Oh No! It’s a Gruffalo! The Gruffalo – the stage adaptation of the much-loved children’s book – is on at the Town Hall, Birmingham, this summer from 12-24 August . We have one ticket for a family of four to give away. Enter now at www. familieswarwickshire.co.uk click on competitions, local, and answer this question: Who illustrated The Gruffalo? A) Axel Scheffler B) Adam Ant C) Andy Pandy Closing date for entry: Sunday 3 August

Revolting Romans and poos from the past! Go Rome-ing around the Herbert Art Gallery this summer for a summer of fascinating children’s workshops and family fun linked into the Museum’s Roman Empire exhibition – Power and the People. We have 3 family tickets to win (2 adults and up to 3 children). Each winning family will also receive 2 Roman children’s costumes (not pictured). Enter now at www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk click on competitions, local, and answer this question: Who starred as Maximus in the blockbuster Roman film Gladiator? A Russell Crowe B. Anthony Hopkins C. Daniel Craig Closing date for entry: Sunday 20 July

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warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk 20