Families Newcastle and Gateshead magazine issue 7 Jul/Aug 2019

IN THIS ISSUE Summer camp directory Simple summer picnic ideas Summer reading Summer Family Fun

Issue 7 Jul/Aug 2019

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Summer is on its way!

This year at Mountain Warehouse, they have a bumper collection of beachwear pieces, available both online and in-store. The collection ranges from kids’ rash vests and hats to tankinis and board shorts.

Everything you and your family need to get ready for the perfect summer!

Competition time Win 4 x tickets (2 adults & 2 children) to LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and SEA LIFE Manchester

Families Newcastle Gateshead magazine have a ticket for 4 to give away for you to enjoy a day visit to two amazing Manchester attractions.

LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre is the ultimate indoor LEGO® playground, where you can explore the spectacular MINILAND, build your own LEGO spaceship and go for a spin in LEGO City: Forest Pursuit Driving School! Plus, this summer, get ready to report for duty! The LEGO City firefighters need you to help save the day in our amazing summer event, LEGO City: Report For Duty!

Then dive into an amazing underwater world at SEA LIFE Manchester, where you can get up close to thousands of creatures including magnificent sharks, enchanting jellyfish and meet Ernie and Cammy, our resident giant green sea turtles!

To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following question:

Win a family ticket (4 people) to Lightwater Valley Families Newcastle Gateshead magazine have a ticket for 4 to give away for you to enjoy a day visit to Lightwater Valley (before 3rd Nov).

Ride The Ultimate rollercoaster, Lightwater Valley’s signature ride that provides a thrilling cocktail of speed, cornering and airtime.

Take to the skies in the grip of the Eagle’s Claw, venture into the underground world of Raptor Attack and see the Park from a whole different viewpoint aboard Black Pearl.

Enjoy wet ‘n’ wild fun on the Wild River Rapids, and swashbuckling adventures aboard speedy Skull Rock and the tummy-tickling Flying Cutlass. Plus jump around on the huge Jumpin’ Jack’s bouncy pillow.

There is something for little ones too including the Lightwater Express train ride around the park, Eagle’s Creek Farm tractor ride as well as Jester’s Jungle Fun indoor play area.

Where in Manchester can LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and SEA LIFE Centre be found?

To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the following question:

Email your answer, plus your name, address and contact telephone number to: editor@familiesnewcastle.co.uk

Email your answer, plus your name, address and contact telephone number to: editor@familiesnewcastle.co.uk

Closing date: Friday 19th July at midday.

Closing date: Friday 19th July at midday.

2 Families Newcastle Gateshead

How many miles long is The Ultimate?

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Welcome

A big HELLO to all of our readers. This is my first issue of Families Newcastle & Gateshead magazine and I’m so excited to be able to bring you the best in all that’s family related so that your lives are made easier and simpler. Families magazine provides a handy ‘What’s On’ guide in every issue, along with national and local news and topical articles about issues that face you, our readers: Family health; Family travel; Family technology; Family education and schooling; Family childcare and more.

In this summer issue, you can read all about our recent visit to the fabulous Kynren, find out which summer camps and workshops are on to help keep the kids entertained these summer holidays and there’s a useful page all about maintaining reading skills whist school’s out.

We have some great competitions for you too on page 2 – make sure to enter and be in with the chance of winning family tickets to Lightwater Valley and also the Sealife Centre and LEGO Discovery Centre at the Trafford Centre, Manchester!

At this time of the year, it can be hard to find things to keep the kids busy and active for little cost. Be sure to check out our ‘What’s On’ guide for ideas, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to get the latest updates on family fun events and attractions including some great offers and check online: www.familiesonline.co.uk!

Happy summer everyone ☺

Editor, Families Newcastle Gateshead Magazine

Get in touch E – editor@familiesnewcastle.co.uk T – 07794909820 @FamiliesNGMag @FamiliesNGMag @familiesngmag

issue In this

4 family news

6

family travel

8 7 family fun family food 10 9 holiday camp listings summer camps

12education 14 what’s on?

Where is Families Newcastle Gateshead?

Families Newcastle Gateshead is distributed bi-monthly throughout Newcastle & Gateshead. You can collect a FREE copy from the scores of outlets: schools, nurseries, play groups, clubs & classes, sports centres, libraries, family doctors & baby clinics and children’s shops. If you would like to stock copies please let us know. For families from birth to twelve.

Read by over 32,000 local families 6 times a year.

Circlulation: 16,000 Deadline: Deadline for Sep/Oct 19 issue is early Aug 19 Designed by: Anna Lawton Printed by: Warners Midlands PLC www.warners.co.uk

Front cover image: Jaxon, aged 18 months from Houghton le Spring, who is our winner of a recent Facebook competition to appear on the front cover of Families magazine.

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

Families Newcastle Gateshead 3

FAMILY

News

Teachers ‘as good as tests’ at predicting success Sats are no better than teachers at predicting pupil’s GCSE and A-Level results, a study has found.

The study, published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, found teacher assessments at age 7, 11 and 14 were just as effective as using Sats results to predict pupils’ subsequent exam success.

Researchers say their findings, published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, question whether the benefits of standardised exams outweigh the costs.

A lead researcher Dr Kaili Rimfeld, from the King’s College London, said: “We have shown for the first time that teacher assessments predict GCSE and A-level results just as well as earlier exam scores.”

“The fact that exam scores correlate so highly with the teacher assessments raises questions about the value of the testing culture that characterises compulsory education in the UK.” More info at www.kcl.ac.uk/news

Free childcare to attend smear tests

Mothers across the UK are being offered an hour’s free childcare so they can attend a smear test.

Childcare.co.uk, which claims to be the largest platform for parents and childcare providers in the UK has launched the initiative to encourage more women to attend a smear test to determine whether they are at risk of cervical cancer, which in 99.8% of cases is preventable with early treatment Every year in the UK, around 3,000 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer. In the UK, women are invited by the NHS to get a cervical screening from the age of 25 to 64. However, figures show the take-up of testing of women is at a 20-year low.

While the test usually takes just five minutes, a free hour of childcare is being offered to allow for waiting times and travel.

Mothers can take up this offer by visiting: www. childcare.co.uk/news/free-childcare-for-smeartests

Supporting families with our sibling discounts

Busy parents trying to do the best for their children are faced with lots of different hurdles. We know that physical activity is fantastic for children to keep them active and improve their overall well-being.

Celebrate play on playday UK!

Playday is the national day for play in the UK, and will take place this year on Wednesday 7 August.

Playday is an annual celebration of children’s play with thousands of children and families playing outside at events across the UK. It is an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of children’s play and the need for quality play opportunities every day of the year.

From small-scale community events to thousands of children taking part in events organised in parks and open spaces, Playday is celebrated by each community in a way that suits them.

As well as a celebration of children’s right to play, Playday is a campaign that highlights the importance of play in children’s lives.

You can hold and register your own Playday event or find one close to you by visiting www.playday. org.uk 4 Families Newcastle Gateshead

However, for a family with more than one child, it is not always possible to offer all children the same experiences. That is why at Razzamataz Newcastle, we are proud to offer a huge 50% sibling discount.

“As well as the sibling discount, we are proud to offer a free first session to all children,” says Kayleigh, Principal of Razzamataz Newcastle.

“We understand that most children need to try out an activity to know whether they like it or not and our teams of teachers are very good in making all new students feel very welcome. We have lots of experience in dealing with all sorts of children so even if they are incredibly shy, we will carefully nurture them to make sure they enjoy themselves and help them to make new friends.”

Razzamataz Newcastle are holding an Open Day on the 13th July and 7th September where children can come along and try the dance, singing and drama classes and parents can find out more about the incredible opportunities we offer our students.

To secure your place on the Open Day or to find out more information about Razzamataz Newcastle, email: newcastle@razzamataz.co.uk call or text 07772577855 or visit www.newcastle.razzamataz. co.uk.

Digital isolation taking hold of children

There has been a large increase in the number of children ages 9 to 16 who say they feel lonely, according to a report from CHILDWISE, an independent market research agency specialising in children and young people. .

The new data shows that three in five children respond in the affirmative when asked if they ‘ever feel lonely.’ This is a 7% increase on last year.

Girls are much more likely than boys to feel this way, with four out of five older teenage girls age 15-16 reporting ever feeling lonely, including more than a third who admit to often feeling this way.

This comes on top of research by Childline which reported a 14% rise in the number of children contacting the charity about loneliness. Many children reported that watching their friends socialise without them on social media made them feel isolated. The youngest person to call was just 10 years old.

More info: www.childwise.co.uk or www.childline. org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

FAMILY

News

Talk, sing and play to build brains

Almost two thirds of parents are unaware that back and forth interaction with their child from birth can help their babies’ social, emotional and cognitive development.

A survey of more than 2,000 parents and expectant parents by the NSPCC found that 62% were unaware that moments playing, singing or telling stories can be brain-building ones.

NSPCC research has found some parents struggle with ideas about how to interact with their young child beyond eye contact and cuddling, especially in the early months when they do not receive obvious feedback from their babies.

In response, the charity is launching a campaign, ‘Look, Say, Sing, Play,’ to encourage new parents to use everyday scenarios to have more two-way interactions with their babies. Going to the shops, having a bath, going to bed – whatever you and your baby are doing can be turned into a back-andforth.

Drive for more men in childcare

More men are to be encouraged into careers in nurseries and early years’ settings, in a new project to provide more diverse role models for children before they start school.

With men making up just 3% of early years staff in England, the project aims to break down the barriers that prevent men entering careers in children’s early education, including the myth that men are less suited to caring roles.

The project will be run by the Fatherhood Institute, and will spearhead an innovative recruitment drive that highlights the positive roles men can play in the crucial first years of a child’s education.

Parents can sign up to get weekly brain building tips that are fun and age appropriate.

It will provide practical resources like myth busters, ‘how-to’ guides and online content to support male recruitment into the profession, as well as online peer support for men already working in the sector.

More info: www.nspcc.org.uk

More info at www.fatherhoodinstitute.org

Going to Nursery Improves Behaviour Children who go to nursery are better behaved and have fewer emotional problems than those cared for by family or a childminder, a new study has found.

Those who attended nursery, crèche or day care centre staffed by professionals for a year or more found it easier to make friends and had better social skills than youngsters who stayed at home.

Researchers believe more stimulating play, more time spent reading, following rules from a young age and getting praise mean children thrive in a nursery setting.

The study by the Sorbonne University in France looked at the factors involved in childhood health and development using a survey of 1,428 children.

It tracked their emotional development from birth up to age 8.

Previous research has suggested early childcare can boost a child’s language and thinking skills, and may improve their academic performance.

More info: www.jech.bmj.com familiesonline.co.uk

Help for Choosing a Family Dog Parents Demanding 24/7 Answers

The growing use of email and messaging apps by parents has caused a surge in messages being sent to teachers around the clock and the expectation of immediate answers, according to the NASUWT teaching union.

A survey by the union of 1,500 teachers found that, each day, one in seven are expected to communicate with parents electronically in their own time, while nearly one in five are expected to do this several times a week.

Chris Keates, general secretary of NASUWT, said many members have said they are getting “a lot more aggressive contact” from parents via email, social media and apps such as Class Dojo.

The immediacy of email and social media means parents are sometimes sending messages reacting to what they had been told by their children, rather than seeking the school or teacher’s side of an issue, she added.

If you are considering adding a dog to your family, this is an important decision which is best not made on a whim.

Generally, children and dogs form great bonds and friendships and dogs can offer the opportunity for children to learn great life skills such as responsibility and compassion.

But all dogs are individuals. The breed of the dog is perhaps the single most important factor you can take into account, when deciding what dog is right for your family.

To help families with this decision a Dog Breeder Decider tool has been created by pet food manufacturer Webbox. The tool matches a dog breed with your family by analysing your family’s lifestyle and preferences against the personality traits, behaviours and requirements of all dog breeds.

More info: www.webbox.co.uk/dog-breed-decider Families Newcastle Gateshead 5

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FAMILY

travel Family Travel Making it Easier

By Gabrielle Nash

W

hether you are about to travel with your children for the first time or are well versed in the drama of a family holiday, you may have caught yourself wondering whether it’s really worth it: the organisation; the cost; the stress; and the arguments? However, a family getaway is a key time to forge bonds, experience something new and, most of all, create memories that will last a lifetime. And the good news is that there are things you can do to make your car or plane journey as stress-free as possible.

Before you Go… Forethought and preparation will pay dividends. It’s useful to mentally walk yourself through the journey. If you’re flying, can you arrive at the airport a little earlier? If you’re driving, can you stop somewhere more pleasant than a motorway services? When you arrive at your destination will a meal or sleep be needed straightaway?

Packing with very young children is not easy but older children (3+) might be more interested and even excited to get involved. Give them their favourite backpack and ask them to pack some things that they might want to get out during the journey.

Think about what you want to get from this holiday or trip – is it adventure, relaxation, fun? Travelling with children is fundamentally different to travelling solely with adults. You can’t go at your own pace, or sing along to your favourite power ballads in the car and you sadly won’t be catching up on the latest movie releases on the plane (at least until your children are old enough to be doing the same!). Can you adjust your expectations of the holiday, making some loose plans but being prepared to go with the flow if things go awry?

Tips for your Child’s Age-Group Babies The biggest fear when getting on a plane with a baby is that they’ll scream. And the biggest fear about embarking on a long-ish car journey is also that they’ll scream. This is a valid concern. What can you do to make it easier? Whether you’re flying or driving, can you time the journey so your baby is *likely* to be due for a nap? Can you make sure that feeds, nappy changes and snoozes happen when they need to? Zip-lock or clear toiletry bags are ideal for keeping things clean and organised. If you can, take a sling or baby carrier – they’re great for a quick stop-off on a car journey, or settling your little one on a plane.

Toddlers and Pre-Schoolers Potentially the trickiest age group, whether they’re on your lap on a plane or have their own seat in the car, you’ll need a few tricks up your sleeve. Generally this age-group respond well to a small bag they’ve not seen the contents of before i.e. a few small new toys, some stickers and maybe even a small pot of play dough. If you’re flying and feel that take-off and landing may be daunting for your little one, you can distract them with a toddler app (games or painting) on your device.

Primary School Age Children When children get a bit older, they might appreciate a full-on activity book or pack. Sealed in a heavy-duty zip-lock bag, these books or packs can be used in the car, on a plane or anywhere else on holiday e.g. in a restaurant. Usborne do a great range for the younger primary years.

Pre-Teens A more grown-up version of the activity book or pack can be appreciated as well as packs of cards, notebooks, word searches and doodle books which all help pass the time. With this age group you may feel comfortable with allowing unlimited screen time for the entire journey – whether on a plane or in the car – but if you’re driving, an audiobook that everyone is interested in is a lovely distraction which can be enjoyed together.

For all age groups…

Keep an easy-to-access bag with wet wipes, antibacterial gel, water and snacks always on you for the inevitable spillages and snack crises!

Lastly, remember to breathe and relax. What’s most important is that your journey gets you all to your holiday destination safely and soundly.

Follow Gabrielle Nash @thelondonishmum 6 Families Newcastle Gateshead

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FAMILY

fun

Free & Fun Activities in Nature this Summer T he summer holidays are starting and Families magazine asked the Woodland Trust for its top pick of holiday adventures to get children active outdoors and away from their screens!

Create a Fairy Garden

Use your imagination to design a fantastic fairy garden! You can do this indoors if it’s raining.

You will need: A container, such as a plastic box or old washing up bowl Earth A collection of natural materials: small stones or pebbles, sticks, moss, leaves, and perhaps some small flowering plants.

Fill your container with earth (if you’re using living plants, put some stones in the bottom for drainage). Use some leafy twigs to make trees. Build a fence or little seat with sticks.

You could even make a pond by sinking a plastic cup or another small container into the earth and filling it with water. You’re bound to think of lots more ideas once you get started…

Learn to Skim Stones You can do this on a pond, river, or calm sea. Just be careful not to get too near the water’s edge or make sure you don’t hit any ducks – or swimmers!

Find some round, flat, smooth stones Hold a stone flat between your thumb and forefinger Get down low and throw it across the water with a spinning action. Do persevere as it might take a bit of practice.

Try a Barefoot Walk Let the grass tickle your toes, splash through a stream, and stomp in some squidgy mud.

Did you know you have over 7,000 nerve endings in each foot, so walking barefoot is a great way to get in touch with nature? Just make sure you avoid anything sharp on the ground. Some parks and attractions have special barefoot trails, so search online for one near you. You could even try setting up a barefoot walk in your back garden.

Embark upon a Woodland Challenge Set up challenges to complete on a day out in the woods and have a competition with your family and friends. Remember to decide how many points each challenge is worth. Here are some challenge ideas: Climb a tree (make sure there’s an adult around though!)

Balance on a fallen tree trunk and walk along Find three types of flower Cross a stream without getting your feet wet

Go on a Butterfly Hunt

Identify three different tree species

Summer brings with it throngs of colourful butterflies. You will find a downloadable butterfly caterpillars ID sheet at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/naturedetectives/ which you can use to hunt fluttery butterflies in woodland clearings. If it’s too wet to go outside, why not cheer yourself up with a gorgeous butterfly mobile instead?

Find some wild animal evidence – tracks, a fox or rabbit hole, some fur caught on a bush, or even some poo!

Tip: you can use the downloadable summer flowers ID sheet at www.woodlandtrust.org. uk/naturedetectives/ for this challenge

You will need: several sticks of similar length string or wire paper – coloured, patterned, or white if you want to colour the butterflies yourself colouring pens, glitter (optional) a needle and some strong thread Cross the sticks over in the middle and fasten them with string or wire to make the frame.

Fold a piece of paper in two and draw half a butterfly along the folded edge. Cut around it and open it out. Repeat for lots more butterflies. Decorate them if you wish.

Host a Teddy Bears’ Picnic

Attach a thread to each butterfly using the needle and tie the other end to a stick. Hang up your mobile and admire your cloud of colourful butterflies!

This is sure to be a hit with younger children, especially if they can invite some friends from nursery. Use a teddy cookie cutter to make some little bear-shaped sandwiches. Cut out some pictures of bears and hide them in the surrounding area for kids to find (just remember to take them home with you when you leave). There are lots of fun picnic ideas at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

The Woodland Trust charity runs its Nature Detectives family offering with lots of ideas to get busy and out in nature. You can post pictures on Twitter or Instagram using #NatureDetectives too or visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/naturedetectives/ for more activity ideas. You can also find your local Woodland Trust wood at www.woodlandtrust. org.uk/visiting-woods

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Families Newcastle Gateshead 7

FAMILY Buckets

Of Fun

food

one!

For Every

The only place where children & adults can ride & drive real diggers!

20% OFF EXPIRY DATE: 03/11/2019 NOT VALID DURING AUGUST.

OFFICE USE: 45203

APPLIES TO STANDARD ENTRY PRICES ONLY (£23.95 PER PERSON)

1. Present this voucher upon arrival at Diggerland Durham.

2. Offer: 20% off the standard pay on the day Diggerland admission price (£23.95pp).

3. Not valid in conjunction with any other voucher, concession, discount, offer or experience.

4. Cannot be used in conjunction with online entry.

5. Valid for a maximum of 4 people per voucher.

6. Age & Height restrictions apply.

LANGLEY PARK, CO. DURHAM 7. Diggerland reserves the right to refuse admission.

DH7 9TT 8. Please check opening times prior to visiting.

9. Full T&Cs: www.diggerland.com/terms 10. Not valid during the entire month of August.

WWW.DIGGERLAND.COM

0871 22 77 007

Simple Summer

Picnic Ideas

By Gabrielle Nash

W

hen the weather is good there is nothing better than a summery picnic outside, but even if it’s not perfect weather, a picnic is a way to get you in that summer mood! So why not get the whole family involved and make some tasty treats for the hamper?

Preheat your oven to 200c, line and lightly oil a large baking tray

Pizza Roll-ups

Roll the pastry into one long roll (ideally beginning at the shorter end) and you will be able to see the layers.

A great alternative to the sandwich, this recipe is easy enough for even toddlers to help with and tasty enough for adults to enjoy too. I’ve made these countless times with my eldest daughter and she always loves getting involved.

Ingredients: 1 sheet of ready-rolled puff pastry 1 cup tomato pizza sauce (or make your own with tomato passata and oregano) 150g grated cheddar cheese 1 egg, beaten Additional filling options: chopped ham or chicken, chopped cooked peppers and courgettes

8 Families Newcastle Gateshead

Roll out the puff pastry onto the baking tray and spread the pizza sauce on top. Be careful not to make the pastry too wet. Sprinkle on the cheese all over and then add additional toppings.

Slice carefully into 8 pieces. Lie flat on the baking tray, brush with a little beaten egg and bake in the oven for 15 minutes.

Heat the oven to 200c and line a baking tray with baking paper. Cut the tortillas into triangles (just like the packet sized ones) and then gently brush with oil. Place on the tray, taking care not to overlap them and bake for 8 minutes.

When they’re out, place on a plate and sprinkle with a little paprika. Serve with guacamole or hummus.

Fab Fruit Kebabs

Delicious eaten hot or cold!

These make a colourful and enticing addition to any picnic! They are also a great way to get younger children exploring new fruits.

DIY Tortilla Chips

Pick your favourite fruits – we love grapes, strawberries, kiwi and melon.

The packet you buy from the supermarket is full of salt whereas a homemade version is super easy, loads healthier and a great way to use up leftover wraps.

Around 12 will comfortably serve 4 people.

You’ll need some corn tortillas and some vegetable oil.

Method: Wash and chop into bite size pieces (taking care with size depending on age of child).

Arrange in colourful rainbows onto skewers (there are some safer plastic skewers for younger children) and then serve with Greek yoghurt and honey, a raspberry coulis or if even melted dark chocolate for more of a treat!

Follow Gabrielle Nash @thelondonishmum

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Holiday camps & workshops ART4 Holiday Workshops

Turpentyne Fine Art School Holiday Sports School Workshops Newcastle Newcastle

Treat your young artist to a 4- or 5-day workshop during the school holidays. Skills based instruction, small class sizes, and individualized curriculum to accommodate all skill levels. Through thoughtful and encouraging instruction we help our students to build artistic skills and self-confidence!

Workshops often fully subscribe. Enrol now to avoid disappointment. Visit: www.turpentyne.com for more info.

Newcastle

ART4 believes that every child is an artist and that creativity lies at the heart of everything! Run by a qualified primary art specialist, each themed workshop is thoughtfully designed to inspire your child, to encourage their creativity and fire their imaginations! ART4 offers your child the unique opportunity to explore art in a way that a traditional curriculum neglects, it gives them the chance to develop their artistic skills and expands their horizons! Set in a relaxed, fun environment, ART4 is the exciting artistic experience that will help your child to flourish and grow in confidence, it allows children to become more like themselves and less like everyone else! ART4 is passionate about bringing art to all!

Creativity is contagious! Ages 6 – 11. 9.00am – 4.00pm.

To book call: 07500 524737.

Foundation of Light Sunderland

The Foundation of Light is running a wide range of fun sports activities for boys and girls throughout Sunderland over the summer holiday. All of its football courses run within its Player Progression Pathway, and are put in place to support the identification, development and progression of players with the potential and aspiration to play for Sunderland AFC’s Academy and Sunderland and Gateshead Girls’ Centre of Excellence. It is holding soccer courses for kids aged 5-14 years old at the Goals Soccer Centre in Sunderland; Hetton School; Easington Colliery Primary School; Kirkby Stephen Grammar School; Seaham Leisure Centre; Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre; Stanley Community Football Centre and Beacon of Light.

Gamesweek Newcastle

Gamesweek is a quality provider of multi - activity courses for all children in the school holidays. Emphasis is placed on enjoyment whatever their level of skill.

Exciting and fun filled activities are delivered by expert and caring staff, led by Mr Fred Dickinson who is a member of the Sports Department at Newcastle Royal Grammar School (RGS) with over 30 years of teaching experience. To find out more visit: www.gamesweek. co.uk/index.php

Go Gateshead Gateshead

Want to get the kids off the couch during the school holidays? Then why not join one of GO Gateshead’s sports camps at Gateshead Leisure Centre. Perfect for children aged 8-14 years, the camps will offer a fantastic range of activities from, Clip n’ Climb to trampolining, badminton to basketball, swimming to dodgeball.

Your kids will stay active, have fun and make friends.

Getting children active is not only our passion - it’s something we’re great at too. We provide children with the opportunity to try new sports, have fun, and really make the most of the school holidays. You can trust GO Gateshead to provide a service that is enjoyable, positive and safe. Book online or call: 0191 433 5733

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Sports School operates sports courses and holiday clubs during school holidays from some fantastic venues which offer some outstanding facilities and choice of sporting activities.

HOW TO BOOK: call 07831 680363 or email info@ sportschools.co.uk. For full details visit www. sportschools.co.uk

Northumbria Sport Multi-Sport Kids’ camp Northumbria University

Razzamataz Newcastle

We are excited to bring you 5 days in the summer holidays jam packed with dance, singing, drama, arts & crafts and much more!

Based around the hit musical and Disney classic The Lion King! ½ day aimed at 4+ 10am – 1pm - £70 Full day aimed at 6+ - 10am – 4pm - £130 12 – 16 Aug at Heworth Grange School.

Book your place now via email: newcastle@ razzamataz.co.uk or call 07772577855.

Fun and exciting sport camps during the school holidays for children aged 7-13. Camps take place at our Sport Central facility and are delivered by our Sport Development team of qualified staff and Northumbria student coaches. Our kid’s camps are a great way for your child to meet new friends, develop their sporting skills and be active during the school holidays in a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment.

Kids get to try different sports and games during each day, which can include football, basketball, quick cricket, netball, dodgeball, boxing, squash, athletics, quidditch, badminton, table tennis, tag rugby, ultimate frisbee and many more. We also have Swimming, which is run by fully qualified swimming coaches from Swim North East, who have been awarded Swim School of the Year in the Sport England National Awards 2018. Please email David Jones: d.r.jones@northumbria.ac.uk

NUFC Foundation Holiday Courses camp Various venues in the region

Lee Sterry Sports Coaching, Football Camps Newcastle

Lee and his staff specialise in football but also provides basic moves tuition, multi skills development, speed agility, quickness and dance. Lee’s program aims to develop a healthy lifestyle for young children in a fun environment learning locomotion skills, coordination, physical fitness and technical skills whilst also developing personal skills such as communication, confidence and team work in a safe, fun and friendly environment. Visit: www.ls-sc.co.uk

Newcastle Dance Centre Summer Schools Gateshead

For ages 5-8 and 9-16, join us for a week of dancing and musical theatre in the school holidays. Our themed weeks are full of fun activities and culminate in a show for parents on the last day. For full details visit: www. newcastledancecentre.co.uk

Next Generation Sports Camps

Newcastle, Morpeth, Cramlington & North Shields

Next generation NE Sport Coaching camps are full of fun. We offer a variety of sports and activities, providing excellent value for money. Perfect for children aged between 4 and 11. The week involves various traditional sports such as football, tag rugby, hockey and cricket.

Our camps also contain some unusual sports including archery and volleyball. Book online with Eventbrite.

Newcastle United Foundation’s Soccer Courses are a great way for children to stay active during school holidays and during term time.

Open to girls and boys of all abilities aged 5 to 14, these soccer courses take place at venues across the region in every school holiday and during term time.

They’re perfect for getting children away from screens and helping them learn new skills, have fun, make new friends and create new memories.

For prices, times and how to book, visit www. nufoundation.org.uk/soccer-schools/holiday-soccerschools/

Dance City North East

We have two camps on offer this summer promising plenty of fun for children aged 6-16!

Urban Summer will give your child the chance to learn Hip-Hop, Street and elements of Breaking.

Enter dance battles and freestyle mash-ups all with a live DJ and make a dance video!

Best of the West End Summer offers a fun-filled week exploring dance routines, songs and characters from some of the most popular musicals around.

Just £125 for the week with sibling discounts available. Book your place now and call 0191 261 0505

Families Newcastle Gateshead 9

Summer Holiday Camps & Courses Guide

By Andrew Campbell

The long summer holiday break is a great opportunity for children to take part in organised activities, play schemes, workshops or day camps either within their local area on a daily or weekly basis or, increasingly, attend an Americanstyle residential summer Camp.

Here’s our guide to some of the options available, together with some advice on how to choose the right summer activity for your child.

Residential Camps These are independent holidays for unaccompanied children aged from 7 years and above. Children are supervised round the clock in a secure residential environment such as a boarding school. Group leaders usually take care of children’s pastoral and welfare needs whilst Instructors provide a programme of activities.

Camps can offer specialist courses or a multi-activity programme. Unlike American summer camps, which due to longer school breaks and less holiday leave for working parents often provide a home-from-home experience, residential camps in the UK usually involve just a 7 day break. However, if your budget can be stretched there are a large number of residential camps operating throughout Europe and North America which can offer your child additional cultural and linguist experiences.

Multi-Activity Day Camps These are non-residential full-day camps running in your local area. They are for unaccompanied children from 3 years and above which usually run from Monday to Friday, offering a varied programme of sports or creative activities throughout the day.

Typically multi-activity day camps involve 4 to 6 activities per day, with each activity session lasting between 1 and 1 ½ hours. Often the sessions focus on ‘tasters’ or introductions to a range of activities such as performing arts and outdoor adventure.

Generally, children can attend for as many days as they wish, with a price discount for a full week’s attendance.

Day camp arrival and departure times vary but the day usually starts between 9am and 10am and ends between 4 and 5pm. Many camps offer early drop off and late pick up options.

Sports/Activity Courses or Workshops Specialising in a specific sport or activity such as performing arts or art and craft, these courses are usually for children of 7 years and above. They generally operate for 2 to 3 hours per day, running for just one day or as a progressive course over 4 to 5 days. Sports courses are often led by qualified instructors/coaches or by local authority sports/leisure centres, specialist swim centres or riding schools. National governing body awards can sometimes be achieved. Performing arts workshops tend to be run by performing arts schools who also offer term time classes for children.

Holiday Play Schemes These offer non-residential full or part-day supervised childcare for unaccompanied children from age 3 and above but are usually run by voluntary organisations or local authorities. Activities at play schemes may be specific, such as sports or art and craft, or involve a range of different activities. Many play schemes run off-site trips to attractions such as museums or parks. In the main, they are provided for children living in the catchment area of the venue.

How safe will your child be?

Most summer camps and courses are regulated by various independent bodies, or in some instances by government inspectorates such as Ofsted which monitors safety standards. Levels of inspection vary according to the type of course or camp.

Day camps and play schemes offering full day care programmes for children under the age of 8 are legally required to register with their local authority. Registered providers are subject to inspection by government inspectorates such as Ofsted.

Sports/activity Courses will not generally be registered with the local authority unless they provide tuition for under 8s. Horse riding centres are legally required to register with their local authority though.

Adventure activities run by any commercial organisation providing specific adventure activities (certain watersports, climbing, trekking and caving activities) are legally required to obtain a licence from the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA). This body inspects and monitors safety standards. Information on these inspections is available to the public from the AALA. www. hse.gov.uk/aala Residential Camps are not subject to legal registration unless they operate specific adventure activities or provide courses for under 8’s. Providers who are members of the British Activity Providers Association (BAPA) are subject to an independent inspection scheme covering site safety, activity standards, staff qualifications and training, health and safety and emergency procedures. For more information, visit www.thebapa.org.uk

Police Checks All registered day camps and plays schemes are required to get checks on specific staff. In England and Wales this is done via the Disclosure and Barring Service, and in Scotland via Disclosure Scotland. It is worth checking with the provider to see what their policy is in this area.

Staff Qualifications You may also want to check on staff qualifications. Most sports governing bodies have an official coaching scheme for instructors or leaders at various levels. It is a good idea to ask for further information on staff qualifications if the organisation does not explain its policy in its promotional material or on its website.

10 Families Newcastle Gateshead

familiesonline.co.uk

the Benefits..

Physical Activity

Much of a child’s time at school is spent sitting behind a desk so spending the day running around, swimming, hiking, or playing sport gives children a great chance to get moving.

Develop Talents and Skills At some camps, children may be given the opportunity to learn skills and take part in activities they have not encountered before. Learning archery, painting or lacrosse may help children discover talents and interests they didn’t know they had.

Building Confidence Discovering these new talents and developing new skills will, in turn, help children to grow in confidence and selfesteem.

Learning Social Skills Engaging with children from different schools, different areas and ultimately different backgrounds, is a great way to build social skills and to make new friends.

Developing Independence

Will I be able to use Childcare Vouchers or claim Tax Credits?

You may be able to claim tax credits to help pay for your child’s summer activities. If you pay for them to attend and if the activity provider is registered and regulated then you can claim as you would for an after-school club or childminder.

Parents enrolled in the Childcare Voucher scheme can also use their vouchers to subsidise the cost of summer childcare options including camps and courses. However, the provider must be registered and be prepared to accept vouchers. To check what help you could get with childcare costs, visit www.gov.uk/childcare-calculator

Sometimes giving children the freedom to make decisions and plan their own time is a fantastic way for them to learn to be independent.

Leaving Technology Behind As fantastic as it is that we live in a world filled with TVs, mobile phones, lap tops and other devices, it is always great to encourage children to get outside for a good oldfashioned kick about and run around.

Enjoying the Outdoors Climbing trees, changing a bike wheel, or building an outdoor camp can help ensure your child does not miss out on the learning benefits to be gained from the great outdoors and enjoy adventures they would not otherwise experience.

Offering Role Models Often the instructors on summer camps provide a rare opportunity for a child to interact with an adult who is not part of the family unit or teacher. Their leader should be trained to care for them, offer them support and advice when needed, and always be there for them throughout their attendance.

Playing!

At summer camps children have the chance to just be children, away from the pressures of school, social media and the commercial world.

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Newcastle Gateshead 11

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Why is homeeducation growing in popularity?

By Dr Alison Baverstock

S

chooldays are ‘the happiest days of your life’ or so the old adage goes.

Whether or not this is true – and I certainly had my doubts when I was growing up – our schooldays tend to be much remembered, with those we are at school with, and small incidents that happened whilst we are there, firmly lodging in our memory.

So why then are parents in increasing numbers opting for their children not to experience school; one of the major shared experiences society offers?

In April 2018, the BBC reported that the number of children being homeeducated had risen by around 40% over three years, estimating that ‘across the UK 48,000 children were being home-educated in 2016-17, up from about 34,000 in 2014-15.’ The issue is starting to attract wider attention, with politicians (both in government and opposition) considering the need

Read to succeed this summer!

Regular deliveries of books at your child’s reading level.

for formal guidance on the rights and responsibilities of home-education and councils seeking more monitoring powers, and perhaps the establishment of a register of those who are home-educated.

Many people refer to the process as ‘home-schooling’ but, in general, those involved tend to prefer the term ‘home-education.’ This reflects an important principle; that home-education is about the whole experience of growing up and learning, not just the schooling bit. Home-educators talk enthusiastically about how every experience can be used to inform a child’s education, from weighing ingredients for cooking (maths, chemistry, nutrition) to expeditions that reinforce what has been learned (history, geography, politics). Homeeducators tend to see learning as a holistic process that does not stop at the school gate.

Other reasons for choosing to home-educate emerge. There are parents who feel that large class-sizes, or the need for general class-understanding before moving on, block a more stimulating learning experience for their child. There are others whose children are dealing with complex mental health or individual learning difficulties that encourage them to think they may be more effectively educated at home. Then there are parents whose children are facing possible or actual exclusion from school who may decide to home-educate instead, as well as those who want to travel, or cater for a child’s exceptional gifts (e.g. musical, sport, acting) and so find a more mobile education helpful.

These various reasons for choosing home-education have prompted a variety of solutions, from flexi-schooling (some days at home, some days in school, which is increasingly permitted and can sometimes make a difference to a rural school remaining open) to local educational networks where parents share curriculum planning and teaching. According to our research, it seems that those who have transferred their children back into the school system for the final years of their education (e.g. A levels) have found that successful university applications can be made by home-educated children with fewer GCSEs, it being accepted that the home-educated are unlikely to achieve the breadth of subjects available via more traditional education routes.

However, one should not assume that home-education is the best option.

That will depend on individual circumstances.

Once the decision to home-educate has been reached, a child must simply be ‘deregistered’ from school, or not enrolled if they have not yet started.

However, before you start home-educating, it is sensible to get some advice on areas your home education curriculum should seek to cover, how to turn everyday activities into optimised learning events and the how to develop of social competences in children. There are many resources available such as Quizlet (www.quizlet.com/en-gb), a website that allows you to create online teaching materials and lessons and Times Education Supplement (TES) Resources (www.tes.com/teaching-resources) with 700,000 resources from diagrams to lesson and topic plans.

readingchest.co.uk Book Rental for Children Learning to Read 12 Families Newcastle Gateshead

Don’t underestimate the amount of work home-education involves. Managing learning, whether through educational resources available to you, finding and employing tutors, arranging shared-learning sessions with other parents of home-educated children and co-ordinating overlaps, takes a lot of effort.

The rewards tend to be that the educational experience can be truly tailored to the individual and the whole family is often involved in the learning in ways that can bring them together as a stronger and more involved unit. The parents we talked to had found the experience stimulating, highly involving – and above all memorable.

Dr Alison Baverstock is an academic, author and mother of four. She has recently published The Home Education Handbook (published by Piatkus at RRP £14.99) with educator Gill Hines. familiesonline.co.uk

Space Chase 2019 Summer Reading Challenge

T

he Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six library books during the long summer holiday.

Children’s reading can decline during the summer holidays if they don’t have regular access to books or encouragement to read for pleasure.

This year the challenge will focus on the theme ‘Space Chase’ - an out-of-this-world adventure inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing.

Children are challenged to read at least six library books over the school holidays and collect rewards, such as stickers, on their way to receiving their challenge certificate and medal.

The Challenge will launch in libraries on Saturday 13 July 2019 in England and Wales.

The Challenge launched in Scotland on 22 June 2019.

For competitions, book recommendations and special online badges and rewards, visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Get boys reading this summer!

By Liz Walker

C

hildren and teachers work so hard throughout the school year, meeting achievement targets each term – only to find that when they start the new school year in September, much of the progress previously made has been lost. This is known as the summer slide. The consequences are cumulative and long lasting, often having a powerful influence on reading ability throughout school life and beyond. This is likely to impact more on boys than girls.

Research, as part of the ‘Read On. Get On’ campaign, shows that only 44% of 11 year old boys read outside the classroom compared to 57% of 11 year old girls. This reading behaviour is a key factor why girls are outperforming boys with reading.

A little encouragement to get boys reading this summer will go a long way…

Promote reading at home as an enjoyable pastime, by modelling it more yourself. Get dads, grandads and big brothers reading at home. Parents’ reading habits have a huge impact on children. If boys never see their dad reading, they are much less likely to pick up a book themselves.

Even if boys don’t like reading themselves, they will like listening to stories. If you are out of the habit of reading (possibly to older children), then get back into it! Bedtime is the easiest time for this, but it doesn’t have to be. Camping holidays are perfect for story telling where there is no power to charge up other gadgets.

Audio books are a brilliant way to keep boys’ interest in stories alive. Make the most of long car journeys and plane trips with audio books.

Do whatever is necessary to find something that inspires boys enough to get them reading.

Talk to them about their interests and find books that they are likely to enjoy. Some boys may get hooked on certain characters in a series of fiction books, but others may want to read for a purpose and prefer non-fiction. Boys will love browsing Reading Chest’s online library, choosing books that interest them such as ‘Real Life Daredevils,’ ‘Extreme Sports,’ ‘Heroes or Villains.’

Then there’s the added excitement of waiting for their own personally addressed envelope of books to arrive in the post!

Make the most of this summer and get boys reading. More importantly - get them reading for pleasure.

All the above applies to girls as well as boys! For more reading advice and access to inspiring books at all book bands visit www.readingchest.co.uk. Families readers can enjoy £5 off their first month’s Reading Chest membership with the discount code FAM.

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Newcastle Gateshead 13

Please check listings with the venue before leaving the house!

5-6 Jul – Herrington Park

Kubix Festival

What’s On? ‘til 21 Jul – Seven Stories

Proud Story Times

Our LGBTQ+-themed ‘Proud to Be Me’ Month will see Story Catchers sharing the best of our favourite books that make us feel proud to be ourselves – stories which smash gender stereotypes, include all families & celebrate individuality. 30-minute story times, suitable for all the family. Free with general admission.

‘til 1 Sep – Gibside, National Trust

Wild Summer Holiday

From bird ringing to bug safaris, this summer holiday is all about getting up close and personal with Gibside’s wildlife.

‘til 1 Sep – Cragside, National Trust

Summer fun

Join us for a summer-long celebration of nature with activities uncovering the beauty and resourcefulness of the natural world.

‘til 1 Sep – Wallington, National Trust

Summer fun

Enjoy a weekly programme of action-packed adventures, from river-dipping and tree-measuring to meeting experts and trying your hand at a new skill. There’ll also be arts and crafts in Toobelz House every day too.

‘til 4 Sep – Life Science Centre

Game on 2.0

Game On 2.0 explores the vibrant history, culture & future of gaming, entertainment & technology through more than 150 playable games. Visitors can play a range of games from arcade classics to modern favourites, including fun party games, such as Rock Band 3.

The exhibition also explores the latest developments in gaming, including how virtual reality is creating ever-more immersive gaming experiences. Game On 2.0 is included with admission to Life Science Centre.

Other visit highlights include the planetarium show Alien Worlds, the new Science Theatre show Super Hero Science and the thrilling 4D Motion Ride Ravine Race.

‘til 22 Sep – Segedunum Roman Fort, Wallsend

Borderline Funny

Borderline Funny is a new exhibition exploring the depiction of ancient Rome’s great northern frontier of Hadrian’s Wall in cartoons. It is the first time an exhibition dedicated to cartoons about Hadrian’s Wall has been shown. Featuring Roman era graffiti, cartoons from the 19c - 21c, some funny, some satirical, including new original work produced for the exhibition referencing contemporary topics such as Brexit and US politics.

Also featuring are works of the late Roger Oram, who produced the Arbeia Society magazine, and many other cartoon works imagining life on Hadrian’s Wall.

‘til 6 Oct – Great North Museum

Dippy on Tour!

The Natural History Museum’s famous Diplodocus cast ‘Dippy’ is at the Great North Museum: Hancock. Dippy lived in London for over 100 years. The full skeleton is 21.3 metres long, 4.3 metres wide & 4.25 metres high.

FREE entry but advance booking strongly advised at www.greatnorthmuseum.org.uk/whats-on/dippy-on-tour

‘til 12 Oct – South Shields Museum & Art Gallery

More than a Game

This FREE exhibition explores stories of players & fans from the early days & up to the present day, from the famous, to the local & unsung heroes of the game in South Tyneside. South Shields Football Club (SSFC) will feature prominently in the exhibition - 2019 is the club’s centenary year of Football League membership – charting the Mariners’ evolution since its origins in 1888 through to the legendary FA Vase victory in 2017, & the club’s ongoing development & ambitions today. As well as SSFC & Hebburn Town FC the many amateur teams of the Borough’s yesteryear will also be celebrated, from works’ teams including Reyrolle & Westoe Colliery, through to church & school teams. Tel 0191 2115599.

‘til 31 Oct – Stephenson Railway Museum

Heritage Train Rides

Every Sun & Bank Holiday Mon. Take a four-mile return trip following the route of the coal trains from the collieries to the River Tyne behind a vintage locomotive in our 1950s passenger carriages. Prices from £4 children/£6 adults, pay once - ride all day. No booking required. Tel 0191 2007146.

‘til 31 Dec – Hatton Gallery

Art Cart

Drop-in Family Fun! Get creative with the Hatton’s Art Cart! Full of help-yourself art activities for families to do together. Free activity but donations welcome. Tel 0191 2226059.

‘till 14 Sep – Kynren

‘til 29 Mar 2020 – Discovery Museum

Watch legends come to life in a thrilling tale told on an epic scale – 2,000 years in the making. This multiaward-winning live action outdoor theatre spectacular takes you on a spellbinding voyage through history as seen through the eyes of Arthur, the son of a mining family. New for 2019, experience the year of the Viking.

Visit the new Viking Village pre-show and witness an epic ‘Viking Attack’ full of new stunts.

This exhibition, built by LEGO® creator Steve Mayes, highlights what the North has done for the world through 45 intricate models, using 50,000 mini bricks. See how many of these northern innovations you recognise in this 3D timeline, which features everything from the Geordie Lamp, Stephenson’s Rocket and Turbinia through to the futuristic Hyperloop. Don’t forget to look for the real-life Geordie inventions around the museum.

An Epic Tale of England

14 Families Newcastle Gateshead

Brilliant Bricks

This is a family friendly event and for children of all ages.

New for 2019 is a second stage in a huge big top which will operate as a fantastic dance tent on Friday night, featuring top DJs from the region and as a second stage on Saturday, with some of the finest North East bands out there.

6 Jul – Saltwell Park, Gateshead

Elmer’s Patchwork Parade & Family

Be part of the most colourful event of the summer as Elmer the Patchwork Elephant takes over Saltwell Park for a sponsored Parade and Family Fun Day, in support of St Oswald’s Children’s Hospice. The fun starts at 10am, with the 3k Parade stomping off from midday. A lively carnival of entertainment, food, music and games will be available until 4pm. You’ll also get the chance to meet Elmer and have a sneak peek at some of his friends ahead of Elmer’s Great North Parade which opens on 21 Aug across the region. Entry fee includes a souvenir Parade wristband to remind you of your day. Entry to park is free but registration fee and £15 sponsorship target applies to the Patchwork Parade.

13 Jul & 31 Aug– 2pm – 3.30pm - Seven Stories

Writing Masterclass fun day

A story truly comes to life when the reader feels part of the writer’s world but how do you create a truly brilliant story? Join author Florianne Humphrey as we equip budding and enthusiastic young writers with essential story-writing skills in this series of engaging workshops.

Suitable for children aged 7+ and their families (8+ may attend on their own provided mobile number of carer is left at Reception).

13-14 Jul, 10–11 Aug, 24-26 Aug – Botanic Garden, Durham

Traditional Crafts Weekend

Silversmith & an artist and card designer will be demonstrating their skills in the garden. No need to pre-book.

14 Jul – Woodhorn Museum, Ashington

Vintage Car Rally

The North of England Classic and Pre-War Automobiles (NECPWA) club will be back at Woodhorn with their amazing array of classic cars. Enjoy viewing the cars, taking your picture with them and meeting the owners!

18 – 21 Jul North Terrace, Seaham

Seaham Carnival

There will be movies on the big screen.There will be live music from local bands and tribute acts, a range of top quality craft stalls and artisan food producers offering mouth-watering street food and a carnival atmosphere.

The dedicated children’s area will include fairground rides, fun activities and workshops.

20 Jul – The Word

Space Takeover Day

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Moon landing with a range of fantastic events taking place at The Word.

24 Jul & 31 Jul – Seven Stories

Farm Life Drawing

2-hour life drawing workshop with the animals of Ouseburn Farm! Suitable for children aged 4+ and their families.

familiesonline.co.uk

Families top tips:

A

fter doing a little bit of research online to find out what our evening at Kynren would hold, I was super excited to experience the show and to see the new Viking village, created for 2019. My eldest son, 8 years, a history buff, also couldn’t wait to see the show. However, what we encountered far exceeded our high expectations; it was simply inspirational! And we cannot recommend it highly enough.

Kynren is so called because of the Anglo-Saxon word Cynren which means family or generation.

The initial K replaces the C as it is the strong letter of King and kin. It’s a fitting name for a show that takes you on a journey, alongside a young boy Arthur, the son of a mining family from the North East, through our country’s profound and rich history. Starting with the tales of Boudicca and the Romans, spectators watch as history comes to life through a living timeline of momentous events.

Viking battles and a Long ship burial, the Norman Conquest, Shakespeare’s performances, Charles I’s bloody execution, the first public railway, Queen Victoria’s reign, World War I’s Christmas Truce, the Miner’s gala and more are all spectacularly reenacted right in front of your eyes.

Staging, production, lighting and sound all combine effortlessly to create a show that audiences in Disney Land Florida would come to expect! My son was awestruck by the river in particular that forms part of the staging. Actors literally walk on water and props as large as the Viking Long ship emerge

26 – 28 Jul – Cliffe Park, Seaburn

Sunderland International Air Show

Following the opening event, the air show continues across the weekend between 10am and 6pm with a full programme of activity in the air and on the ground.

27 Jul – National Glass Centre

Clay Challenge

Ready for a new challenge? Throw the dice to select the picture of an artwork currently on show in our gallery spaces at National Glass Centre and Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art. Sculpt it in air drying clay, then check how well you’ve done!

27 Jul & 24 Aug – Exhibition Park, Newcastle

British Cycling Let’s Ride Pop-Up

For trying something new. For cycling a mile or two.

For Everyone. Come and join us at Exhibition Park for a free taster of all things cycling in Newcastle! Whether you want to ride for fun or fitness, this free monthly pop up event gives you the chance to ride a traffic free cycle circuit as many times as you want, at a pace that suits you. The event is open to all ages and abilities and the circuit is easy to ride, with volunteers on hand throughout, ensuring peace of mind and safety for all cyclists. For those wanting to take things up a gear, local ride leaders and breeze champions will be there on the day to tell you more about other cycling opportunities in Newcastle.

1) Dress for the weather and remember that it’s cooler at night when the show starts and ends.

2) Take along extra layers and a blanket or two.

3) Food/drink can’t be taken in, so either make sure you have money to purchase food/drink or eat beforehand.

4) If it’s going to be rainy weather, take a poncho as umbrellas can’t be put up.

5) Splash out if you can as the more expensive seats are centrally located and comfier.

from it leaving you bemused as to how it has all been engineered.

Incredibly, the show includes 33 horses, 37 sheep, 2 goats, 2 Durham oxen, 2 donkeys and a gaggle of 30 geese. What stunned me the most, though, was that the show is entirely orchestrated by volunteers.

Nearly 1500 individuals from the local community have contributed countless hours of their spare time to be professionally trained in a range of diverse skills – all to help bring Kynren to life. The youngest is aged 5 and the eldest is 80! We say well done to all who have played a part, no matter how small, in the production of this truly remarkable show!

Kynren is without a doubt a world class family performance and one that shouldn’t be missed! To book your tickets visit: www.kynren.com/tickets

29 Jul – 26 Aug – Exhibition Square, Newcastle

The Greatest Metrognome Show

Roll up, roll up! This summer, our Metrognomes are filled with excitement as they join the circus for their greatest adventure, and you’re invited to the show. Be transported to a fun and colourful summer where you can expect to be entertained by circus performers, fun tricks, jugglers and more! A different show starting each week.

1 & 15 Aug – 10am – 12pm – St Mary’s Heritage Centre

School Holiday Fun: Summer Crafts

Come along to St Mary’s in the school holidays and take part in our Summer themed craft activities. Think ice-cream cones, flip-flops and sun, and we’ll have a giant beach scene to decorate too! Juice and biscuits included for the kids and tea and coffee available to buy for the grown-ups! £2 per child, just drop in. Further details: heritage@gateshead.gov.uk or 0191 433 4699

6 – 8 Aug – Whitley Bay Playhouse

The Tiger who Came to Tea

Direct from the West End, Olivier Award nominated smash hit show, based on the book by Judith Kerr.

9 Aug – Gibside, National Trust

Outdoor Theatre: The Secret Garden

Join Mary Lennox on her journey of discovery as she travels to her uncle’s house deep in the Yorkshire countryside. Adult £16, Child £11, Family £46. familiesonline.co.uk

10 Aug – Newcastle Racecourse

Newcastle Car Show

Show cars, car clubs, show and shine, stunt show, stalls and demonstrations, free funfair rides and inflatables, catering village and dogs are welcome.

19 Aug – 10am – 4pm - Cragside, National Trust

Young Explorer’s Day Camp

Enjoy a full day of adventure at Cragside – there’ll be canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding on the lakes, bush craft, team games and hiking to try. Age 11-14. From £59.50 per child.

19 Aug – 10.30am – 1.30pm - Lindisfarne Castle, National Trust

Rock Pooling

Join our rangers on a seashore safari and see what creatures you can find hiding in the rock pools. Meet on the headland behind the castle. FREE.

24 Aug – Arbeia Roman Fort

Roman Falconry

Join Albion Historical Falconry and their talented birds of prey to discover more about the Roman mythology of birds. During the falconry displays there’ll be demonstration of how hawks and falcons hunt in the air and on the ground. You’ll also discover how early Britons used birds of prey for hunting, trading, forging alliances, intimidating enemies and controlling nature. FREE entry.

Families Newcastle Gateshead 15

Urban Summer 29 Jul – 2 Aug, 9–5pm daily Learn Hip Hop, Street and elements of Breaking. Enter dance battles and freestyle mash-ups all with a live DJ, and make a dance video!

Best of the West End Summer 5 – 10 Aug, 9–5pm daily A fun-filled week exploring dance routines, songs and characters from some of the most popular musicals around.

AGES

Sibling discounts available - £15 off per child when booking 2 siblings or £17 off per child when booking 3 or more siblings.

Mulitbuy discounts available book both Urban & The Best of the West End Summer Schools and get £15 off per week.

12th - 16th August 2019

0191 261 0505

dancecity.co.uk

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