Families Hereford and Worcestershire March/April 2015

The really useful magazine for parents of children 0-12 years Issue No 32 March/April 2015

Families Hereford & Worcester is for Sale See page 4

www.angelarobinsonphotography.co.uk www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Editor’s Letter Dear readers I’m writing this in February half term but looking forward to the Easter holidays which will be upon us shortly. Time seems to fly when you’re getting older!

As usual our What’s on section is full of great places to take the children locally and we will be adding more in the next few weeks to the website so please keep checking.

The next issue will be May/June which focuses on children’s parties so if your business is party orientated and you would like to advertise then please get in touch. We can help you promote your business to 44,000 local parents as well as offer you FREE inclusion in the children’s parties listing in the magazine and online. Copy deadline is Friday 10th April.

Families Hereford and Worcester is still up for sale so if you are at a crossroads in your life and looking to change career direction then do give me a ring or email. It is a family-friendly, well-established flexible business working from home around the family. Full training is given.

Finally I wish you all a very Happy Easter.

Karen Craven (local Mum of 3, Step Mum to 2 plus Adoptive Mum to Salsa our retriever)

Editor, Families Hereford and Worcester

Contact details: Tel: 01386 791422 Mob: 07981 564053 email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

2

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

In this issue 02

Editor’s Letter

02

News & Views

04

Ed’s Reading Room

05 Education 11 Opportunities 12 Parenting

Next issue: May/Jun 2015, Editorial and booking deadline: Friday 10th April Like us on Facebook FamiliesHandW Follow us on Twitter @FamiliesHW

14 What’s On All content Copyright 2015 Families Hereford and Worcester Circulation: 22,000 copies of Families Hereford and Worcester are available through nurseries, pre-schools, schools, libraries, soft play centres, selected shops and other distribution points throughout the county. If you would like free copies for your organisation or if you would like to subscribe so you don’t miss an issue please contact us.

Families Hereford and Worcester 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.

Design: Natalie Schmidt at www.matobodesign.com, Tel: 020 8676 2857 Print: The Manson Group, St Albans at www.manson-grp.co.uk, Tel: 01727 848440

Front Cover: www.angelarobinsonphotography.co.uk

March – April 2015

Mothering Sunday It’s Mother’s Day this March 15th, so why not put your thinking cap on early and come up with something special for your mum? Or you could start dropping hints for your partner and children to treat you. A day out with the people dearest to you can hit the spot perfectly, so why not check out the many museums, stately homes, farm parks, theme parks and National Trust properties across the country that are running special Mother’s Day events. At many of them Mums go free, so it’s worth doing your research. Top that off with a lie-in and breakfast in bed, and you’ll have the perfect day!

News & Views

Who Do You Think You Are? LIVE moves to the Midlands Who Do You Think You Are? Live will run from Thursday 16th – Saturday 18th April at The Nec, Birmingham.

Visitors will have access to leading genealogical experts, informative workshops, over 120 specialist exhibitors, archives and museums, major online resources and the largest gathering of family history societies. Family historians are also invited to learn how to use DNA in their research; bring photos, documents and heirlooms for expert analysis and listen to celebrities from the television series sharing their own family history stories.

Andy Healy, Show Director, says: “A ticket to the show will give visitors the unique opportunity to explore their ancestry at the largest gathering of genealogy exhibitors and experts under one roof. We promise no-one will leave without having discovered more about their family tree.”

Tickets are available online at www.whodoyouthinkyouarelive.com.

Free maths and English activities – 31st March and 14th April!

Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Explore fits easily around family life; the centres are open 7 days a week, with children able to attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis.

On the 31st March or 14th April, your local Explore Learning centre will be hosting a day of free workshops for children ages 5-14 in the local community. Spaces are limited so call Redditch on 01527 910222 to reserve your place. www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Kip McGrath Easter Holiday Maths and English Tutoring If you suspect your child needs additional tuition in maths or English, Kip McGrath’s fully qualified teachers are well placed to advise you. They offer tutoring for students aged 6-16 years including preparation for their exams.

On your first visit, your child will be given a free educational assessment. This is the start of the journey. From this assessment they can target specific areas of weakness and create an individual learning programme for your child. They ensure your child enjoys coming by bringing out the best in your child by their friendly manner and encouraging tone. For more information call 01527 757250. www.kipmcgrath.co.uk March – April 2015

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

3 Hereford & Worcester

Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Spring book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online and from good bookstores. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

My Hamster is a Detective

by Dave Lowe (Templar £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Ben is hoping to have an adventure with his genius hamster Stinky. The Tenacious Two don’t have to wait long for a mystery to solve when Delilah the kitten is cat-napped – and a neighbour’s cat also disappears. But will the ransom notes hold the clues the detective duo need and will they be able to carry out their cunning plan without their secret that Stinky can talk being discovered?

‘This is the latest hilarious story about Ben and Stinky.

It is entertaining from start to finish and is complemented by amusing illustrations.’

The No 1 Car Spotter Goes to School by Atinuke (Walker Books £4.99)

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

Cakes in Space by Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre (Oxford £8.99) ED SAYS: ‘Astra is travelling through space to her family’s new home in Nova Mundi, so far from Earth that it will take them 199 years to get there.

The idea that the Nom-O-Tron Food Synthesizer can create any food is rather appealing to Astra. But when Astra asks for the most amazing cake ever, so delicious that it’s scary, she doesn’t realise how scary life could become. Can she and her robot friend Pilbeam save the spaceship from complete destruction by so many cakey fiends?

‘This is an exciting book with super characters that will delight boys and girls alike. It is a real page-turner with fantastic illustrations throughout.’

A Whisper of Wolves

by Kris Humphrey

ED SAYS: ‘No 1 learns a lot from life around him in the African bush and especially from his grandfather. When he and his best friend Coca-Cola meet a young American boy they realise how different their lives are. No 1 dreams of going to school and is thrilled when the opportunity arises but he now has much less time with his grandfather – and some things he can only learn from his grandfather, sitting under the iroko tree.

ED SAYS: ‘A long time has passed since the kingdom of Meridina was invaded by the evil Narlaw but it seems that these sinister beings are approaching. Only the guardians of the wild, the Whisperers and their animal companions, have any hope of defending the realm. Will Alice and her wolf friend Storm be able to protect Meridina with the help of the other Whisperers before time runs out?

‘This is a delightful book about a charming character, with super illustrations. It is a gently humorous story, itself illustrating the power of story-telling.’

‘This is a brilliant story – mysterious and atmospheric with fantastic characters. It is the first of a new series so look out for the next Guardians of the Wild book.’

(Stripes £5.99)

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award-winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating. You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

Would you like to fit work around your children, rather than fit children around work?

Would you like an extra income, OR new, flexible career with full, on going training and support, working part time, from home?

• Are you tired of having to book holiday from work, and await it being approved, to enjoy precious moments with your child at school events, and during the school holidays?

• Do you worry about taking time off work to look after your child when school is closed or they are ill?

If you’re looking for a business that actually fits around your children and current job commitments, with incomes from £200 - £2000+ a month then contact Lucie for further information today on 0781 7491497 or email: ljkkey@btinternet.com.

4

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Could you be the next editor and owner of Exciting business opportunity for an organised mum or dad!

Work from home, fit your hours around your family and benefit from owning a well-loved established business.

For more details, call Karen on 01386 791422

The winner of Ed’s New Year Compe tition was William Naw n.

Congratulat ions William !

?

Hereford & Worcester

March – April 2015

Education

March – April 2015

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

5 Hereford & Worcester

Education

By Tanith Carey

Are we putting our children under too much pressure?

Anxiety, sleeplessness, depression, homework resistance and learning blocks.

These are just some of the issues children can develop in today’s hot-house Educational atmosphere.

Kids in the UK are currently some of the most tested on earth.

But as my new book Taming the Tiger Parent shows, far from making them a generation of high-achieving, accomplished uberchildren, they are actually the most worried and unhappy.

In the constant striving for league table positions, not just by schools but also by the Education Ministers above them, one important lesson seems to have been lost: Stressed kids don’t learn.

Many parents also may not realise that some of the behavioural problems they are struggling with at home are down to the fact that children feel judged very early, and almost continually, as they move up the Education system.

How a child responds to an overly pressurised environment will vary according to many factors: their temperament, their genes, their resilience, their success at school, their personal threshold and also their relationship within their family.

If they are affected, at first it can be hard for parents to tell the difference between what is a normal stage of childhood – and what might require some help.

But when children do suffer the ill-effects, it’s vital that we intervene.

Studies have found that children who show signs of anxiety in primary school are more likely to develop depression in adolescence.

Some of the early signs that kids feel overly pressured to achieve include: n Saying they just want to go home and play. n Using a whispering voice in class. n Saying they don’t deserve good marks - or pointing out how much better other children are doing and ripping up work. n Asking to go to the toilet a lot in lessons. n Avoiding eye contact when talking to a parent. n Stopping enjoying activities they used to enjoy. n Fidgeting, hair-twirling, chronic nail-biting and skin-picking. n Showing a lower tolerance to frustration than normal; shouting without making much sense or flying off the handle. n Having a sad look and difficulty smiling which may be remarked on by others in the family or at school. n Starting to express feelings of helplessness, hopelessness and worthlessness. n Experiencing chronic worry, becoming overly panicked by small things and thinking small setbacks are the end of the world. n Having trouble sleeping. n Finding excuses not to go to school. n Talking less and less to parents. n Suffering unexplained stomach pains and tension headaches. n Suffering physical symptoms such as mouth ulcers, cold sores, eczema and asthma attacks. n Showing OCD-like symptoms such as frequent washing of hands, arranging possessions or developing rituals that they insist on doing.

The good news is that these symptoms can be relieved by addressing your child’s worries directly, taking steps to ease the pressure and re-calibrating your relationship.

6

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

March – April 2015

Education For example, one of the most distressing symptoms parents witness is kids insisting they are ‘rubbish’ at a subject or they are ‘stupid.’

That’s often because in today’s test-driven culture, youngsters often internalise the critical voices they constantly hear telling them they must do better. Children assume that because they hear these messages inside their head they must be true.

Teaching them to recognise them, and showing them how to switch them off is an important first step.

Another upsetting outcome is that because your child thinks you always expect them to do better, they distance themselves.

They may become uncommunicative, defensive and try and avoid you to protect themselves from the pain of feeling your disappointment.

At the other end of the scale, there will also be the children who are so desperate to meet the expectations placed on them they become overly worried about tests and homework.

They turn into perfectionists who live their childhoods with the fear that whatever they do is never going to be good enough.

However your child reacts, it’s important to help them realise that being good at everything is an impossible goal and there are lots of different ways in life to excel, outside the increasingly narrow confines of the current concentration on Maths, English and Science.

Of course, it’s very hard to take your foot off the gas when you know that every other parent you know seems to be doing it and you fear your child will sink without you.

But it’s worth it because the simple truth is that tiger parenting can actually make kids perform worse, making kids develop anxieties like maths anxiety and reading resistance.

There’s a good chance you have had enough too. Perhaps you are tired of constantly nagging your child about school work.

Perhaps you have tired of the competitive undercurrents with other parents at the school gates; the conversations which feel like duels; the icy smiles you have to feign as humble brags about reading levels, maths scores and music grades rain down on you like body blows.

Most of all, there’s a good chance you don’t like the way being constantly measured, assessed and judged makes the children you love feel about themselves. Possibly you can’t remember the last time you saw your children truly feeling carefree.

Perhaps you can’t see any other option if your child is not going to be left behind.

But there is a way out – and you can start today with your family.

By making the simple decision to put your child’s well-being first, letting them play more and letting them focus on their innate talents, you will be one step closer to restoring the balance.

Furthermore you will not just start to enjoy being a parent once again, rather than a ring-master, you will also be reclaiming your child’s right to a carefree childhood, a better guarantee of success in life than any number of high-flying exam results.

TAMING THE TIGER PARENT: How to put your child’s well-being first in a competitive world by Tanith Carey is published by Constable/Little Brown, price 8.99. For more information please go to www.tanithcarey.com March – April 2015

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

7 Hereford & Worcester

Education Dodderhill School, Droitwich The headmistress of independent girls’ school, Dodderhill School in Droitwich Spa explains what sets single sex schools apart.

Dodderhill recently topped the league tables showing how Worcestershire’s secondary schools performed in the latest round of GCSE and A Levels, published in January.

Headmistress Cate Mawston said: “Dodderhill is the only girls’ school in the area. Many girls come to Dodderhill and tell me that they are keen to learn, but feel that mixed sex schools distract from that.

“What sets Dodderhill apart is our unique bespoke approach to each and every girl. We adapt the curriculum to meet the needs of the student, not the other way around, which ensures everyone is challenged, stretched and stimulated at the appropriate level. Our classes are deliberately small and our exam results are consistently amongst the best in Worcestershire. It is not unusual for girls to take AS examinations with their GCSEs.” Dodderhill School provides continuity of education for girls from six weeks to 16 years old.

Cate Mawston, Headmistress www.dodderhill.co.uk

The Downs Malvern The Downs Malvern is an outstanding school offering day, weekly, full and flexible boarding for girls and boys from 3 – 13 years.

Personal Tutors

in Malvern, Worcestershire and Herefordshire Key Stage 1, 2, 3, GCSE, A level, Common Entrance, Scholarship, IB. Most subjects covered, including English, Maths, Sciences, Languages, Music, IT. For information & enquiries call or email kate@helptuition.co.uk/ 01684 562439/

www.helptuition.co.uk

a Century of Surgeons

Children’s activities including “Meet Dr Stretton” and Ghastly Germs and Deadly Diseases!

14 February – 11 July 2015 Hands-on activities Interactive operating theatre Stour Vale Mill, Green Street, Kidderminster DY10 1AZ Telephone: 01562 69028

www.museumofcarpet.org 8

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Associated with Malvern College, the school is set within its own impressive 55-acre campus on the western edge of the Malvern Hills. The children here benefit from excellent teaching alongside superb extra-curricular, boarding and sports facilities. These resources include a multi million pound sports hall, art studios, computer suites and all-weather sports pitches. In our most recent inspection, it was concluded that, ‘The school offers an excellent educational experience. Throughout the school the pupils’ achievement is excellent and they reach high standards both in their academic work and in a wide range of extra-curricular activities.’

The staff and I heartily welcome visitors to the school and the children will proudly show off the school they love.

Alastair S Cook, Headmaster www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk

RGS Worcester Choosing a school for your child is unlike any other decision you make. You need to choose with your heart, about what feels like the right environment for your child to grow and thrive as well as with your head about the opportunities and curriculum on offer. It is not just about academic excellence exam results and sporting traditions, you need to look at the broader picture and ask what suits your child.

Kite marks of quality are also a good guide, for example membership of IAPS which guarantees a school with a commitment to excellence.

Laura Brown, Headmistress RGS Springfield Gareth Hughes, Headmaster RGS The Grange www. rgsw.ork.uk Log in to our new website, we are constantly updating it with lots of local news, a calendar of events with things to do for the whole family and interesting articles – so please visit www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk and register – the site is taylor-made for you.

March – April 2015

Education

Photo courtesy of RGS

Parents’ guide to Independent schools (4-13 years)

By Hannah Hunter

We all want to give our children the best start in their educational life. If you can afford it, the independent sector provides an alternative to the state system, which can sometimes operate like a postcode lottery. An increasing number of parents are looking at the independent sector– a report from the association of Teachers and Lecturers shows numbers rising at their fastest rate since 2008.

A variety of Independent schools

around 1:20 at state primaries), giving staff and pupils more time to get to know one another.

An independent school is a school that is free to operate outside of many of the rules and regulations of the state system (there are, of course, statutory education, health and safety standards). Independent schools are also fee-paying, and governed by an elected board.

If you’re looking at an independent secondary school, a pre-prep will ensure that your child gets the best out of their common entrance exam (necessary in getting a scholarship or bursary). In grammar schools areas, these schools may also offer preparation for the 11+.

Within the umbrella term of ‘independent’, you will find an array of different types of schools. Pre-prep is the name sometimes given to schools which cater for infant aged children (4-7), that usually are feeder schools for a prep (preparatory) school (for 8-13 year-olds, and sometimes younger). The preparatory school takes its name from its original function of preparing pupils for entrance to senior schools. This might be a ‘public’ school – the older private schools, whose name derives from the fact that they are open to the public (providing they can pay the fees of course!).

It’s not just the academic kids who will benefit from what a prep school offers.

Sport is taken very seriously, and they will offer a wide range, from rugby to badminton. They also cater for other interests, offering a variety of extracurricular activities, such as dance, drama and music, which you might not be able to access in the state system.

You will also find different kinds of Independent schools that cater for infant and junior-aged children. These include schools with different learning styles, such as Montessori schools (often for younger children) and Steiner schools.

How to find a school Your first port of call should be the Government’s database of all UK schools, which allows you to search by area and type (private or state funded). You might want to look at this early on – according to the Good Schools Guide, getting a place can be cut throat:

‘For a small number of schools (mostly in or near to London) the only way to gain a place is to register your child’s birth then head straight to the school and etch their name on the waiting list; try not to deliver in July/August – places are likely to have been nabbed by autumn births.’

Expect an interview, even for early years places – this is likely to involve some sort of assessment of basic speech, interaction and social skills. By age 7 or 8 you might expect a test of Maths and English ability, with possibly an IQ test.

This could be accompanied by a school visit, to assess how your child will be placed at the school.

As with any school, you should make appointments to visit the school and check their inspection reports (these may be delivered by the Independent Schools Inspectorate or Ofsted).

Useful links

Government school search www.gov.uk/find-school-in-england Independent Schools Inspectorate www.isi.net Ofsted www.ofsted.gov.uk Independent Schools Council www.isc.co.uk Independent Association of prep schools https://iaps.uk Good Schools Guide www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk Advice on choosing a prep school www.telegraph.co.uk/education/9264856/How-tochoose-the-perfect-prep-school-for-your-child.html

Why choose an independent school?

Independent schools can offer smaller class sizes, meaning more time for one-toone attention, helpful for children with learning difficulties or other additional needs. Teachers have time to challenge more able children – prep schools often have specific gifted programmes.

Their better working conditions, with more resources and higher salaries, mean that independent schools can attract the best teachers. There is also a higher staff to pupil ratio, on average about 1:10 (it’s March – April 2015

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

9 Hereford & Worcester

Education Schools’ Open Days BREDON SCHOOL Co-ed 4-18 Wednesday 25th March 10.00 am - 12.00 noon Tuesday 28th April 10.00 am – 12.00 noon 01684 293156 www.bredonschool.org HEREFORD CATHEDRAL SCHOOL Co-ed 3-11, 11-16, 16-18 years Tuesday 10th March 8.30 – 10.45 am Senior School and Sixth Form Open Morning 01432 363506 or email admissions@herefordcs.com www.herefordcs.com MOFFATS Co-ed 4 -13 Friday 13th March 9.30 am - 12.30 pm Bank Holiday Monday 4th May 9.30 am – 12.30 pm 01299 841230 or email: office@moffats.co.uk www.moffats.co.uk THE DOWNS, MALVERN COLLEGE PREP Co-ed 3-13 Bank Holiday Monday 4th May 9.30 am – 4.30 pm Whole School Open Day 01684 544108 or email registrar@thedowns.malcol.org www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE INCLUDED IN THE SCHOOLS’ OPEN DAYS, PLEASE EMAIL EDITOR@FAMILIESHEREFORDANDWORCS.CO.UK

Don’t forget to mention when you telephone that you saw the advertisement in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine.

Please call Karen on 01386 791422 to book your advertising space for future issues.

What’s all the fuss about?

Why should I bother to make a Will?

We all know we should make a Will, yet 60 per cent of us haven’t done so. We don’t get round to it. It’s an expense we could do without and frankly for those of us in the prime of life with young children we anticipate rightly(!) that we will live to a ripe old age and making a Will is something to put off until then.

But what if? What if something did happen to you or to your spouse, or your partner, or worse to both of you? What would happen to your money and to your children? Would you really want that to be left to chance or worse to the Government?

If you are married or in a Civil Partnership, your other half would not automatically get everything. Intestacy rules clearly set out the share a spouse is entitled to and that is not likely to be what you imagine.

Secondly, if you and your partner are not married, the surviving partner may not necessarily be entitled to anything. Is that what you would really want?

If the worst did happen and both you and your partner were to die, it is so important to have made clear who you would want your children to live with and who has charge of the purse strings of the money you would like them to have access to as they are growing up. The last thing you want to leave them is an expensive and emotional dispute at an already very difficult time.

Making a Will is not very expensive or time consuming. By doing so, you can protect your family and your peace of mind.

So don’t put it off any longer.

(Clare Burden worked as a Family Law Solicitor before having time off to have children. She now works from home as a Will Writer running Worcestershire Wills together with her partner Mandy Weston.) www.worcestershirewills.com 10

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

March – April 2015

Opportunities Apply now: Summer job vacancies with NCS The Challenge NCS The Challenge are recruiting for 900 paid positions to lead and mentor young people aged 15 – 17 in the West Midlands. Nationally, The Challenge will work this year with 26,000 young people and employ 3,500 seasonal staff. The seasonal job opportunities available are suitable for anybody with youth work experience – although this is not essential for all roles. NCS are especially looking for candidates with staff management experience for Programme Leader roles, or students and graduates over 18 years of age who want to gain further experience of working with young people.

The Challenge is a 3-week programme of community-based and residential activities which brings together young people from diverse backgrounds, building their skills and confidence while connecting them with their communities. Young people taking part in the Summer Programme will stay away from home on a residential basis and experience challenges designed to remove them from their comfort zones such as white water rafting, rock climbing and overnight hiking.

Fun football training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years Classes held in Bromsgrove, Redditch & Kidderminster Sign up online at

www.littlekickers.co.uk or call 0121 364 7165 or alternatively email eread@littlekickers.co.uk

They will spend a week living in University halls learning skills that help them with their transition into adulthood such as cooking for themselves, living in their own flats and making friends. Those graduating from the programme will also get follow up support including help with University applications and interview skills. NCS is recognised by UCAS. Some positions will involve residential stays while others are community based and regular hours. The roles can last from 3 days to 14 weeks from June through to September depending on each specific role requirement. Katie Matthews from NCS says: “For many of our young people, our Summer Programme will be a life changing experience. Everyone we recruit will need to be committed to helping the young people make the most of every moment.”

Applications are now open. You can find out more and apply online www.ncsthechallenge.org/jobs. Email seasonalroles@the-challenge.org or telephone 0121 771 3884.

Could your family help Guide Dogs change lives by looking after one of their wonderful dogs?

Each year up to 1500 puppies are bred at the National Breeding Centre near Leamington Spa, and to do that they require approximately 300 breeding mums and 90 dads, all of whom enjoy life with families in volunteers’ homes. They then go on to be socialised by their wonderful puppy walking volunteers until they are just over 12 months of age.

Roller Disco Suitable for ages 8-12 • Roller skates and wrist guards provided • Great selection of music • Marshalled skate • Tuition available Last Friday of every month – 6.30 to 8pm At: Peopleton Village Hall, WR10 2EG Price: £5 per child, £2 for skate hire (Skates to be booked in advance) Booking essential as limited spaces available Contact us via email sales@kosport.co.uk or 01905 840396

5 March – 12 April Retro Marvel Now – The Art of Lee Bradley Exhibition

The Centre – the largest of its kind in the world – provides opportunities for people to visit and learn more. They also run schools’ tours where children can take part in blindfold activities, learn how to read and write braille, go through the sensory tunnel, and view puppies through special viewing windows plus The Centre offers a ‘Puppy Helper Experience’ where visitors can meet the puppies and experience a blind fold walk through a small obstacle course.

Please contact nbcvisitors@guidedogs.org.uk or call 0845 3727432 for visiting. For more information on volunteering please contact john.garrett@guidedogs.org.uk http://www.guidedogs.org.uk/aboutus/ national-breeding-centre March – April 2015

See website for details of exhibition, associated workshops and events.

www.forgemill.org.uk

01527 62509

NEEDLE MILL LANE, RIVERSIDE, REDDITCH, B98 8HY www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

11 Hereford & Worcester

Parenting Worms and slugs teaching children to be themselves!

By Polly Walker In less than 12 months since its launch, Britain’s Next Bestseller has already shaken up the publishing industry by giving authors a new, fairer way to land a book deal: by proving demand for their work. As a result, it has also given children the opportunity to shake up the way they view themselves….

Polly Walker launched her campaign with BNBS last March, hoping to achieve 250 pre-orders for her children’s book in order to secure the elusive publishing deal.

She achieved this within weeks and her book ‘Worm, Slug, Maggot and Leech & their Troublesome Transformation’ was published in September. The delightful tale tackles issues around self-esteem, individuality and diversity, delivering a powerful message to its young audience: that it’s great to be ME. Based on her experiences of teaching vulnerable children and teenagers from disadvantaged backgrounds, many of whom were permanently excluded from their mainstream schools and exhibited complex behavioural and emotional difficulties, Polly developed a great passion for matters of social inclusion. Hoping to produce a fun resource that could be used as an aid to promote discussion with children about feelings of self-worth and identity, she wrote and illustrated her mini-beast tale.

Dance classes, workshops and performances for all ages across Herefordshire and Worcestershire • Contemporary • Urban Dance • Choreography • After school clubs

dancefest.co.uk

01905 611199

Saturday free running races for children 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month at Cob House Fisheries, Worcester, WR6 6YE. Races start at 9.00 am. Please arrive at 8.45 for warm ups!

Toddlers to teenagers welcome.

FREE to take part.

Register at www.kidsrunfree.co.uk Kids Run Free Worcester @kidsrunfree To volunteer contact Justin@kidsrunfree.co.uk

Established 1992 Fully Qualified Instructors National / International Competitions Specialised Children Only Classes 4 – 16 years Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced classes Train with Sensei Jags Shoker, 2nd Dan

Special offer 5 FREE lessons

12

Polly says: ‘The ever increasing pressures society places on our young can make the world a scary place, even for the most privileged, ‘typically’ developing child. Our children should be presented with opportunities to explore and question such challenges. What better way to do so than through the power of a book? If Worm, Slug, Maggot and Leech were to motivate just a finite number of the appropriate children to think differently – optimistically – about their abilities, their appearances, their attributes and those of their peers, I will feel satisfied that I have made a small step in the right direction’.

And it seems she is already doing just that. Polly now regularly visits schools in a bid to encourage young children to celebrate themselves and their differences. Her book has received glowing reviews from parents, educational professionals and childhood clinicians; the most common feedback being the desperate need in schools and the home for a diversion from pink princesses and handsome, brave pirates to one that tackles our image obsessed culture of perfection. Whilst the four burrowing buddies may not be the likeliest place to find such a breath of fresh air, they are certainly capturing the interest of our younger generation in order to explore and embrace diversity, to challenge preconceptions and to celebrate talent – wherever it may be found! https://britainsnextbestseller.co.uk ‘Worm, Slug, Maggot & Leech and their Troublesome Transformation’ by Polly Walker is available to order on Amazon.You can also read her blog at: http://pollymwalker.wordpress.com

Glitz n Giggles

Girls Pamper Parties!

Age 3+

Princess appearances & Frozen-themed parties Dressing up, Nail art, Karaoke, Jewellery and magic wand making, Foot spas, Chocolate fountains and more! Very competitive prices.

Funky Football Parties!

Coached football parties Mini matches, Skills, Presentation Invitations and much much more!

Monday: St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Droitwich Spa 5.30 – 6.30 pm Wed & Fri: The Parish Centre, Barnt Green 5.30 – 6.30 pm Friday: Parkside Middle School, Bromsgrove 3.40 – 4.40 pm Saturday: St Peters RC First School, Bromsgrove 9.15 – 10.15 am

Contact us to get a party tailored to you!

www.kombatkids.com 01543 473408 / 07730 899722 register@kombatkids.com

www.glitzngiggles.co.uk 07817704933

Hereford & Worcester

Newbridge Farm Park

Any parties booked in March/April will receive 10% discount and free use of the chocolate fountain.

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Reopens for Easter

Open Mon-Sat during holidays Open Wed-Sat during term-time Closed Sundays

Ea ster Trea su re H un t w it h pr ize

• Easter Bottle Feeding • Egg Collecting • Tractor Rides • Pony Rides • Hands on Pet time • Indoor Play Barn • Outdoor Play and Picnic Areas • Zipwire • Trampolines (indoor and out)

www.newbridgefarmpark.com

01531 670 780 Little Marcle, Nr Ledbury, HR8 2QG

March – April 2015

Parenting Baby on a budget

By Joanna Parry

Having a baby is a costly business, and it’s not unusual for parents to spend thousands of pounds on kit before their baby even arrives. But the truth is, babies need very little stuff and what they do need you can almost always borrow from friends or buy second-hand.

Golden rules for buying on a budget • you’ll need to invest in some necessities before your baby arrives, but tell the world you’re pregnant and you’ll be amazed at what hand-me-downs come your way • prepare a gift list or exchange unwanted gifts for something useful • hit eBay with a vengeance. Baby clothes and equipment often come in bundles, which are far cheaper than individual items • only buy new if there is a safety issue involved. You can buy almost everything second-hand and as most baby gear is used for such a short period of time, things will be in surprisingly good condition. Look out for NCT sales and take a look in your local charity shops • if your friends have children why not organise your own swapping event?

• join recycling forum Freecycle or other swapping-buyingselling websites such as Nappy Valley or Gumtree • if you must buy new, go budget. Budget brands have to pass the same safety tests as the expensive ones and are often made by the same companies. Many supermarkets sell stylish baby clothes at a great price, and Ikea have brilliant nursery furniture.

• buy in bulk whenever you see a good offer (especially nappies!)

The gear you need • Sleeping. Go for a cot-bed from the start and make it cosier by rolling up blankets to block off one end or decorate a basic cot with stencils. While cots can be bought secondhand, current guidelines on preventing SIDS suggest that babies should sleep on new clean mattresses.

• Out-and-about. Easily the most expensive piece of kit is a buggy, so look for decent models on a recycling site or go for a cheap one that folds up and is light-weight.

• Carrying. Invest in a second-hand sling for as little as £10, or borrow one – an unbelievable number of mums buy slings brand new and never use them.

• Driving. Car seats CAN be bought second-hand but make sure you are confident that the seat has not been in an accident.

Go for a convertible model that lasts from birth to 4 years Feeding and changing Apart from a pram, cot and car seat, babies need very little – nappies, a few babygros (in neutral colours), a blanket, cardigan and hat. Don’t buy any other baby clothes – you’ll receive enough gifts when they’re born.

Save money by breastfeeding – bottle-feeding costs over £500 a year and that’s just the formula! If you do bottle-feed, save money by not investing in a steriliser and using boiling-water instead. You don’t need a bottle warmer either and hopefully someone will lend you a highchair when you need one eventually.

Green washable nappies work out cheaper. It can cost up to £1000 to keep a baby in disposable nappies until they are pottytrained, whereas using reusable nappies costs only a few hundred pounds. If you choose to use disposables buy the supermarket value ones, or stock up on premium brands when they’re on offer.

If you go eco, buy in bulk from websites such as naturebotts.co.uk.

March – April 2015

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

13 Hereford & Worcester

What’s On THEATRE

Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1AX 01527 577330, www.artrix.co.uk Much Ado About Shakespeare A versatile youth theatre has been exploring the work of the Bard to make Shakespeare interesting and relevant to a modern day audience, particularly young people. Saturday 21st March 5.00 pm £8.00, £6.00 under 16s Puss in Boots With a host of puppets, a working windmill and an avalanche of fruit and nuts come and see this classic furry tail, it’s the cat’s whiskers!

Suitable for age 4+. Friday 3rd April 2.30 pm £8.00 Evesham Arts Centre Theatre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4QH 01386 48883, www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk The Wind in the Willows A spectacular musical adaptation of the classic, “The Wind in the Willows”. Join the boat-loving Ratty, the sensible yet curious Mole, wise old Badger and the fantastically irrepressible Toad as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime culminating in a colourful battle with a pair of pick-pocketing weasels to save Toad Hall! Saturday 7th March 4.30 pm £10.00 adult £8.00 child

Norbury Theatre, Norbury House, Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8ED 01905 770154, www. norburytheatre.freeserve.co.uk Seussical The Musical Encore Theatre Academy The story of Horton, an elephant, who embarks on a journey that will challenge the powers of friendship, loyalty and family.

Saturday 14th March 2.30 and 7.30 pm £7.50 Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org The Ugly Duckling Set on the banks of a magical river, brilliant storytelling, fantastic puppets and a delightful score make this a fabulous show for little ones and their families. Tuesday 31st March 2.30 pm £8.50, £7.00 under 16s Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, Worcs, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www. redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Pooh’s Basket of Surprises The story will be read out by a professional storyteller. Pooh will make a special appearance to meet and greet.

Themed craft activity and refreshments.

Saturday 7th March 10.30 am and 12.00 noon £3.00

Learn to Swim Courses run during the holidays

• These are intensive courses with a 45 minute lesson on 3 consecutive days.

• They are suitable for beginners from 3 years +.

• Small group sizes.

• Luxurious warm pool.

Weekly lessons for babies and children run throughout the year Chessgrove Swim

Ditchford Bank Road, Hanbury, Bromsgrove B60 4HS

01527 821978

info@chessgroveswim.co.uk

www.chessgroveswim.co.uk 14

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Please check with the venue in case details have changed and also please note that with some venues, it is cheaper to pay in advance on-line.

Bita – Palace Youth Theatre Set within a mythical world of folklore and witchcraft, the Bíta, a group of strange forest dwelling creatures, are on the hunt for food. They have pestered the nearby villagers of ‘the ditch’ for many years, but when the villagers fight back, how will the Bíta survive?

Saturday 28th March 7.45 pm £4.25 Chris & Pui Roadshow See Chris and Pui from ‘Show Me Show Me’ – CBeebies’ favourite double act is bringing songs, rhymes, comedy sketches and lots of joining in for all the family. Wednesday 1st April 11.00 am and 2.00 pm £12.75, £10.75, £43.00 family Professor Pepperpot’s Balloontastic Magic Show Professor Pepperpot brings his unique style of magic, mayhem and balloons to the Palace. Wednesday 8th April 10.45 am £4.25, £6.25, £17.00 family Poetry Slam This live final is the culmination of a poetry slam project involving Middle Schools from Worcestershire, which has seen young people trying to find out “who has the X Factor”… but in a poetic kind of way.

Tuesday 28th April 7.00 pm £6.75, £4.75 The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555, www.courtyard.org.uk Borderlines Film Festival Quality cinema with everything from Great British crowd pleasers to world cinema gems. Friday 27th February – Sunday 15th March Hereford Performing Arts Festival Gala Night Once again The Courtyard is the main venue for a week of performance of the arts. Saturday 21st March 7.00 pm Tales from the Intermediate Youth Theatre The Intermediate Youth Theatre has been devising a triple bill of all around clowning and the Grimm Fairy Tales. Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th March 7.00 pm £5.00 Courtyard Youth Theatre presents James and the Giant Peach The Courtyard Youth Theatre presents an adaption of this Roald Dahl classic.

Wednesday 8th – Saturday 11th April 2.00 pm and 7.00 pm £12.50, £11.50 Tall Stories present The Snail and the Whale A tiny snail longs to see the world, so she hitches a lift on the tail of a humpback whale, but when the whale gets beached, how will the tiny snail save him? Monday 20th April 12.30 and 2.30 pm and Tuesday 21st April 10.00 am and 12.30 pm £11.00, £9.00, £36.00 family The Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED 01905 611427, www.worcesterlive.co.uk The Magician who lost his spells The Magician, Clarissa Cat, and Ozzie Owl find out that things have gone missing. Have Robber Chief and Robber Band been up to mischief again?

Can they be thwarted? Saturday 7th March 10.30, 11.45 am £2.50 The Dancing Bear When Slapup’s two daughters rescue a dancing bear from a cruel circus ringmaster, can they make sure it has a happier life in the future? What’s beekeeping got to do with it all, and is a female disguise really necessary? Saturday 4th April 10.30, 11.45 am £2.50

GARDEN CENTRES Evesham Country Park, Evesham, WR11 4TP 01386 41661, www.eveshamcountrypark.co.uk Spring Bunanza Chirpy chirpy, tweet tweet activity: Monday 30th March, Wednesday 1st and Friday 3rd April.

Beastly Bugs & Beautiful Butterflies: Monday 6th, Wednesday 8th and Friday 10th April. 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Webbs, Worcester Road, Wychbold, Droitwich Spa, WR9 0DG 01527 860000, www.webbsdirect.co.uk Make a Gift for Mothers Day Fun, hands on activity where children decorate a pot with a selection of craft items and put a bright houseplant in it as a lovely gift for mum or grandma.

Saturday 14th March 10.00 am – 5.00 pm £5.00 includes all materials.

Plus Funtastic Fantasy Face Painting Children can become anything or anyone they want, from fairies, to animals to superheroes! 11.00 am 5.00 pm £3.00 per child Easter Riverside Ramble Children can follow a fun trail around the Riverside Gardens and all correct entries will go into a draw to win a prize.

Saturday 28th March – Sunday 12th April 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Free Children’s Fair Rides Monday 30th March – Friday 10th April 11.00 am – 4.00 pm £1.50 per ride

MUSEUMS Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Medieval weekend in the Town House Discover what it was like to live in medieval times with students from the Living History Group as they spend the weekend living and working in the Town house. Saturday 14th - Sunday 15th March Mother’s Day Free Museum entry for Mums. Sunday 15th March Waterloo Commemoration Weekend To mark the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo, Napoleonic re-enactors will visit the historic buildings and show how soldiers and their entourage lived and prepared for combat with Napoleon’s army. Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd March March – April 2015

What’s On Easter Holiday: Family Fun Days Living history demonstrators and re-enactors celebrate Easter, with traditional activities and celebrations, including egg rolling and egg and spoon races. There will be pony rides and the miniature train will be running (extra charges apply). Sunday 5th and Monday 6th April Easter Holiday Fun: Go Wild Children’s activities, crafts and games.

Pre-booking recommended.

Tuesday 7th – Thursday 9th April Commandery, 109 Sidbury, Worcester, WR1 2HU 01905 361821, www. museumsworcestershire.org.uk Easter at the Commandery A selection of traditional crafts and Easter fun. Tuesday 31st March Friday 10th April 11.00 am – 1.00 pm and 2.00 – 4.00 pm £2.00 Easter Bonnets Create your own unique Easter bonnet and then go to Fort Royal Park for a day of Easter activities. Monday 6th April 11.00 am – 1.00 pm and 2.00 – 4.00 pm £2.00 Forge Mill Needle Museum, Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY 01527 62509, www.forgemill.org.uk Retro Marvel Now – The Art of Lee Bradley Exhibition See the work of one of the top comic book artists in the country. Thursday 5th March - Sunday 12th April Meet Comic Book Artist Lee Bradley in the Gallery Discussion, tips and demonstrations. Wednesday 1st April 11.00 am – 4.30 pm Comic Book Workshops Wednesday 8th – Thursday 9th April 9.00 – 10.30 am, 11.00 am – 12.30 pm, 2.00 – 4.00 pm. Cost: £1.00 & £1.50 Comic Book Heroes and Villains Event Day Costumed characters, superhero lego, face painting, balloon modelling and more. Sunday 12th April 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Cost: Adults £3.00, Children £1.00 Forge Mill Farm Day Cute and cuddly animals, Punch and Judy show, bouncy castle, vintage tractors. Sunday 19th April 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Cost: Adults £3.00, Children FREE Museum of Carpet, Stour Vale Mill, Green Street, Kidderminster, DY10 1AZ 01562 69028, www.museumofcarpet.org Spring themed craft activity Saturday 7th March 11.00 am, 1.00 and 3.00 pm Ghastly Germs and Deadly Diseases (self discovery activities) Saturday 14th March, Saturday 25th April 10.30 am – 4.30 pm British Science Week Ghastly Germs and Deadly Diseases Workshops Saturday 21st March, Tuesday 7th – Saturday 11th April, Saturday 18th April 11.00 am, 1.00 and 3.00 pm March – April 2015

Easter Egg Hunt and ‘Eggciting Activities’ Saturday 28th March Easter Egg Hunt, Easter Crafts (self-discovery activities) Wednesday 1st – Saturday 4th April Easter Activities Monday 6th April 11.00 am – 1.00 pm The Elgar Birthplace Museum, Crown East Lane, Lower Broadheath, Worcester, WR2 6RH 01905 333224, www.elgarmuseum.org Microscopic! (part of British Science week). Use microscopes to find clues and solve puzzles, and discover the world beyond the reach of the human eye. Saturday 21st – Sunday 22nd March 11.00 am – 4.30 pm Keep the home fires burning Explore Elgar’s Great War with a soldier’s kitbag trail. Saturday 28th March Discover the music of the trenches with a family fun day featuring interactive performances from The Stringcredibles. Wednesday 1st April Come along and take part in children’s pastimes from World War One. Saturday 28th March – Sunday 12th April 11.00 am – 4.30 pm Museum of Royal Worcester, Severn Street, Worcester, WR1 2ND 01905 21247, www. museumofroyalworcester.org Sweet treats children’s trail Use your sweet tooth to find out more about Worcester porcelain this Easter.

No museum entry charge for children accompanied by a paying adult and trail is free. Monday 30th March – Saturday 11th April 10.00 am – 5.00 pm

ATTRACTIONS Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, Burford, Oxfordshire, OX18 4JP 01993 823006, www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Take a Walk on the WILD SIDE this Easter Stroll around the Park and get eye-to-eye with Giraffe, walk with Lemurs, watch Rhinos graze on the Manor House lawns or take a ride on Bella the train. Explore their tree-house adventure playground with interconnecting rope bridges, slides and mini Manor House for under 5s.

The stunning gardens and beautiful parkland make a beautiful backdrop to the animals. With over 260 different animal species in over 120 acres, there’s plenty of space to relax and get closer to wildlife!

Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1RL 01531 633160, www.eastnorcastle.com Eggsperience Easter at Eastnor Find the festive bunnies and crazy chickens to crack the festive puzzle, with chocolate rewards shelled out to all the successful good eggs plus the chance to win an enormous Easter egg every day. Friday 3rd – Monday 6th April 11.00 am – 5.30 pm £10.00, £6.50 child, £26.50 family.

Severn Valley Railway, Comberton Hill, Kidderminster, DY10 1QX 01562 757900, www.svr.co.uk See Peppa Pig and Daddy Pig Enjoy a steam train ride and see your favourite characters. Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th May Three Counties Showground, Malvern, WR13 6NW 01684 584900, www.threecounties.co.uk Countrytastic Keep the children entertained all day long with free activities, entertainment, animals and much, more. Countrytastic has plenty of indoor and outdoor fun and action for all the family! Thursday 9th April 10.00 am (under 3s free) The Hive, Sawmill Walk, The Butts, Worcester, WR1 3PD 01905 822866, www.thehiveworcester.org Space Night Celebrate the Lunar Eclipse in The Hive in association with the BBC’s Star Gazing Live. Activities for children and adults: view the stars or try out space-related science experiments.

Thursday 19th March 5.00 – 8.00 pm Spring Flowers – make and take Make and take away a lovely spring bouquet. Thursday 2nd April 10.00 am - 12.00 pm £4.50

Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum, Foregate Street, Worcester, WR1 1DT 01905 25371, www. museumsworcestershire.org.uk Stanhope Forbes’ England Exhibition This Exhibition explores both the beautiful coastal scenes of Newlyn and the surrounding areas that Forbes’ is best known for, as well as his works depicting town and country life.

From 21st March to 6th June Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 7XZ 01299 250416, www. museumsworcestershire.org.uk Mothers Day All Mum’s admitted free.

Sunday 15th March 11.00 am - 5.00 pm County Capers – Holiday Activities A country filled day including traditional crafts & games, local produce, children’s activities and archery. Enjoy fantastic falconry displays, meet alpacas, watch ferret racing and have a donkey ride.

Monday 6th April 11.00 am - 5.00 pm Countryside themed craft activities.

An additional charge of £2 per child applies for the day’s activities. Tuesday 31st March – Thursday 2nd April and Tuesday 7th – Friday 10th April www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

15 Hereford & Worcester

What’s On Spring Mosaic – make and take Make and take away your own mini mosaic. Thursday 9th April 10.00 am – 12.00 pm £4.50 World Book Night Celebrate World Book Night with lots of free giveaways, author talks, competitions and much more! Thursday 23rd April 5.00 – 8.00 pm Witley Court and Gardens, Worcester Road, Great Witley, WR6 6JT 01299 896636, www.english-heritage.org.uk Easter Adventure Quest You’ll meet a housekeeper from the past with stories of times gone by. This lively character will be happy to help you on your quest as you explore Witley and crack the clues. Rise to the challenge and win your chocolate reward. Friday 3rd – Monday 6th April 11.00 am – 5.00 pm

EVENTS National Trust 0844 800 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Berrington Hall, nr Leominster, HR6 0DW Tel: 01568 615721 HERON WALK Take a walk with the ranger to the landscaped lake and discover more about the heronry. This will give you the chance to see these magnificent birds and learn all about their habitat, feeding and lakeside

16

Hereford & Worcester

If you would like to feature in the What’s On Section, please email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk lifestyle. Monday 23rd March 2.00 – 3.30 pm Adult £5.00, Child £2.50, Family £10.00 GEORGIAN JEWELS The Georgians loved to while away the hours with playful fancies - follow the trail to find the hidden treasure in the garden.

Saturday 28th March – Sunday 12th April 10.00 am – 4.00 pm CADBURY EASTER EGG TRAILS Join the hunt with the Cadbury Easter Egg trail in and around the gardens.

Follow the clues on the Georgian game trail to collect your chocolate egghead at the end. Friday 3rd – Monday 6th April 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per trail Brockhampton Estate, Greenfields, Bringsty, Herefordshire, WR6 5TB Tel: 01885 482077 MARVELLOUS MOTHER’S DAY A great day out for the whole family, with Mother’s day themed crafts and demonstrations. Sunday 15th March 10.00 am – 4.00 pm CADBURY EASTER EGG TRAILS Join the hunt with the Cadbury Easter Egg trail in and around the gardens.

Trail based fun for all the family with Easter Egg prizes for all completed trails.

Saturday 28th March – Sunday 12th April 11.00 am – 4.00 pm FAMILY DEN BUILDING DAY Learn how to build the best den ever

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

with expert advice from the Rangers.

Tuesday 31st March 1.30 – 4.00 pm Clent Hills, Nimmings Wood car park, between Hagley and Stourbridge, B62 0NL Tel: 01562 712822 CADBURY EASTER EGG TRAILS Join in with the Easter trail around the Clent Hills. Follow the clues to find the Easter bunny and get a chocolatey reward. Sunday 5th – Friday 10th April 11.00 am – 4.00 pm £3.00 child Croft Castle, Yarpole, nr Leominster, HR6 9PW Tel: 01568 780246 EDWARDIAN HOLIDAY Play like an Edwardian with Croft’s family trail of childhood traditions. Saturday 28th March – Monday 6th April 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 CADBURY EASTER EGG TRAILS Become an Eggsplorer and join the hunt in the gardenst. Follow the clues on the Edwardian game trail to collect your egg. Friday 3rd – Monday 6th April 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per item Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW Tel: 01905 371006 CROOME’S CADBURY EGGSPLORER TRAIL Lots of fun is to be had on the popular Easter trail. Search for the clues around the parkland, but don’t forget to collect your prize when you finish.

Saturday 28th March – Sunday 12th April 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 EASTER ACTIVITIES Make Easter crafts to take home with you and why not have your face painted too?

Friday 3rd - Monday 6th April 11.00 am – 3.00 pm £1.00 Hanbury Hall, School Road, Hanbury, Droitwich, WR9 7EA Tel: 01527 821214 FAMILY ACTIVITY DAYS Follow the themed trail around the garden and collect your prize, then enjoy ‘make and take’ activities. Trail only available from Visitor Reception on Monday and Wednesday. Monday 30th March – Thursday 2nd April and Tuesday 7th – Friday10th April 10.30 am – 4.30 pm CADBURY EASTER EGG TRAILS Enjoy trails and ‘make and take’ craft activities and collect your chocolate reward. Friday 3rd – Monday 6th April 10.30 am – 4.00 pm

CHARITY EVENTS GARDEN OPEN DAY at LITTLE MALVERN COURT, Little Malvern WR14 4JN Sunday 22nd March 2.00 – 5.00 pm. A delight of Spring Bulbs and Flowers, plenty of free parking. No dogs. Tea & Cakes, Plants & Flowers for sale. In aid of SSAFA, providing lifelong support for our Forces and their families.

Entry £6 Adults, Under-16s free.

March – April 2015