Families Hereford & Worcester issue 38 March - April 2016

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Issue No 38 March/April 2016

Hereford & Worcester

Easter Days Out Education Clubs & Classes Top Tips For Choosing A School

Really useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in Hereford & Worcester

Editor’s Letter

League Table Changes

Dear readers Welcome signs of Spring are starting to appear, the days are getting noticeably longer and the Easter school holidays beckon...

Now is the time to be planning holiday activities for the kids and great days out for the whole family.

There’s a lot happening in our region over the next couple of months and you can see a listing of activities and events in our What’s On section. If your children are interested in sport, music, dance and the performing arts then look at our Clubs and Classes section.

We also focus on education with a look at the importance of bed-time reading, some suggestions on the latest books that they might enjoy and a discussion of ways to help boost children’s literacy and numeracy skills. Plus we have a handy guide listing the Top 10 Tips for choosing a new school.

The Government has announced an end to judging schools on GCSE results. From 2017, schools will not be judged and ranked on their raw GCSE results but will instead be measured by a broader range of criteria across eight subjects. The government says this will toughen standards.

The new ranking system will see schools judged on a system called Progress 8. This replaces the five or more GCSEs benchmark with a system that studies progress made by students between Key Stage 2 tests (taken at the end of primary school) and performance in eight subjects at the end of secondary school.

Bredon Opens Pre-School

Enjoy Spring !

Diane Clifford.

Editor, Families Hereford & Worcester Tel: 01684 770566 Email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

In this issue

Next issue: May/June, editorial and booking deadline: Monday 4th April

02 News & Views 04 Open Days 06 Ed’s Reading Room 09 Easter Crafts 10 Clubs and Classes

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13 What’s On

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Families Hereford & Worcester

Reach 44,000 local readers.

Contact Diane on 01684 770566 if you are interested in advertising in

Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine

Bredon School in Bushley, near Tewkesbury, has launched 'Young Explorers Pre-School', offering a safe haven in a large rural setting for children aged from 2 years 9 months. This largely outdoors-based Pre-School encourages children to embrace the great outdoors, whatever the weather! Days are spent taking part in activities which aim to develop the children's personal, social, emotional and physical skills, looking to build self-esteem and confidence as well as having fun!

Activities include den-building in the forest school, meeting the animals on trips to the school farm, creative play in the mud kitchen, and even sailing to distant lands with a spot of real canoeing in the school’s swimming pool!

The Pre-School is open 8am to 5pm, five days a week (termtime only), with Government nursery funding vouchers accepted. For more information or to book a visit, see: http://www. bredonschool.org/academic-learning-support/junior/

Free Trial For Inspiring Tuition Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition for five to 14 year olds of all abilities. The centres are open seven days a week. As Explore members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme. All Explore courses map to the National Curriculum in England and the Curriculum for Excellence in Scotland. To find out the benefits from Explore Learning membership you can book a free trial at www.explorelearning.co.uk.

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk March - April 2016

News & Views Mothering Sunday It is Mother’s Day this 6 March, so put your thinking cap on and come up with something special for your mum.You could start dropping hints for your partner and children to treat you. A day out with family can hit the spot perfectly. Check out the many museums, stately homes, farm parks, theme parks and National Trust properties across the two counties that are running special Mother’s Day events. At many of them mums go free. Top that off with a lie-in and breakfast in bed, and you will have the perfect day!

Museum’s Mini Exploration

Tonia Peters

BSc (Hons), PGCE, MEd (Ed Psych)

Educational Psychologist (Chartered by the BPS)

Independent assessment and advice for all special needs including autism, learning difficulties, dyslexia, dyspraxia and attention problems

Forge Mill Needle Museum is set to explore the world in miniature this spring with its exhibition ‘Sew Small’ which will run from Saturday 12 March – Sunday 24 April. This exhibition will feature some tiny creations which could furnish the finest doll’s house. A highlight of the display will be a specially made furnished doll’s house complete with a stunningly stitched garden.

Alongside the exhibition, the museum will be continuing the miniature theme throughout the Easter holidays. Children who visit the exhibition will be able to create their own piece of mini furniture as well as complete a doll’s house trail.

There will be a special mini-egg hunt taking place on Good Friday and Easter Saturday where participants will make a basket and hunt for eggs to claim their chocolate prize. Lastly, there will be ‘Lego Cities’ workshops on Tuesday 5 April as well as the opportunity to create miniature gardens with ‘Tiny Trowels’ on Wednesday 6 April. www.forgemill.org.uk

Tel: 07853 248311

Grafton Psychology Associates Ltd Trading as Tonia Peters Company Registration Number: 7853233. Registered in England and Wales.

In miniature: Forge Mill’s Easter theme

Local Schools Need You Academic Choice, a small Hagley-based agency, is looking for Supply Teachers, Cover and Teaching Assistants to work in Primary and Secondary schools in the Worcestershire and Wyre Forest areas.

There are many benefits of joining Academic Choice including competitive rates of pay, schools local to you and jobs to suit your personal requirements and expertise. www.academiccchoice.co.uk

Shakespeare’s Celebrations This year's annual Shakespeare celebrations in his home town of Stratford-on-Avon will be special as 2016 marks 400 years since the bard's death. Plans are afoot to make Saturday 23 April memorable with a procession through the town and festivities involving a day full of music, colour and action. “There will be more opportunities for people to see and take part in the proceedings,” says Sarah Summers, Town Clerk.

Stratford-on-Avon is an easy car journey for many in Worcestershire and the event promises to be a great family day out mixing entertainment with sprinkling of history and culture. Drivers need to plan their parking as vehicle access to the town centre will be restricted. www.shakespearescelebrations.com

Wear Your Hat On Wear A Hat Day If you have not already saved the day, save it now! Wear A Hat Day is a fun-filled, annual brain tumour awareness and fund raising event helping to support research. The organiser, Brain Tumour Research, is asking families and children and schools across the UK to put Thursday 24 March in their diaries and don a hat to support the cause.

Involving families and school children in the campaign is poignant, given that brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40.

Schools, nurseries, organisations and individuals can all find out how to register and take part at www.wearahatday.org March - April 2016

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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Education

Open Days 10 Top Tips For Choosing Your Child’s First School Bredon School, Cheltenham

Board and day co-ed ages 3 – 18 Tuesday 22 March, 10.00am-12noon Contact 01684 293156 www.bredonschool.org

The Downs, Malvern Board and co-ed 3 – 13 years Monday 2 May, 9.30am-4.30pm Contact 01684 544100 www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk

Hereford Cathedral School, Hereford Day co-ed ages 3 – 18 years Tuesday 8 March (Senior School) Friday 11 March (Junior School) Contact 01432 363506 (Senior) Contact 01432 363511 (Junior) www.herefordcs.com King’s St Albans, Worcester Day co-ed ages 4 – 11 years Saturday 12 March 10.00am-12.00noon Contact 01905 354906 www.ksw.org.uk Malvern St James, Malvern Board All Girls ages 4 - 18 years Saturday 11 June 10.00am - 1.30pm Contact 01684 892288 www.malvernstjames.co.uk Moffats, Bewdley Board and day co-ed ages 3 – 13 Monday 2 May, 9.30am-12.30pm Contact 01299 841230 www.moffats.co.uk RGS, Worcester Day co-ed ages 2 – 18 years Saturday 7 May (The Grange - ages 2-11) 9.30am-12.30pm Saturday 14 May (Springfield - ages 2-11) 9.30am-12.30pm Contact 01905 613391 www.rgsw.org.uk The River School, Worcester Day co-ed ages 3 – 16years Wednesday 4 May 10.00am Contact 01905 457047 www.riverschool.co.uk Winterfold House Day co-ed ages 6 weeks – 13 years Saturday 21 May Contact 01562 777234 www.winterfoldhouse.co.uk Don’t forget to mention that you saw the school’s open day in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine. Please call 01684 770566 to book advertising space

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Families Hereford & Worcester

Starting full-time school is an exciting and wonderful time for every child. When choosing a school, you are looking for the very best environment to nurture your child’s important first steps, launching them on a journey of discovery which will lay the foundations for their life. As we all know, no two children are the same and so finding the right school for your child is a significant and personal choice and one we all want to get right. Here are my 10 top tips to consider as you visit the schools on your list, to help you choose the right one for you and your child: 1. Arrange to visit the school on a normal school day – this is the best time to assess the real atmosphere of the school, meet teachers and children as you tour and gain a picture of how your child will fit in and develop in their care.

2. Ask to meet the Head – the Head sets the ethos for the school and so it is vital that you understand and are excited by their view of education.

3. What is the atmosphere? Do the children look happy, engaged in activities and excited by what they are doing? Is this a place where you can envisage your child being well-cared for, challenged and stimulated and where your child will develop in confidence and self-esteem as well as academically.

4. How are children catered for through the school curriculum? Is there a focus on developing the ‘whole child’ in addition to academic achievement through the breadth of the timetable? This is a key time for your child to develop a love of learning so a vibrant and stimulating curriculum is vital.

5. Does the school have good facilities indoor and out such as sport, P.E. music and drama facilities? Are the facilities well-maintained, safe and looked after? Do the noticeboards and displays suggest a stimulating and busy school?

6. What are the class sizes? How do the teachers structure the classes to challenge and support different abilities, ensuring that each child’s individual needs are targeted?

Are there teaching assistants working in the classes?

7. How is the day structured and what extra-curricular activities are available? Will this school provide a breadth of opportunities that will engage and develop your child – for example, individual music lessons, choir, sports activities, art and craft clubs etc?

8. How does the school report back to parents? Do they have frequent parent meetings in addition to reports? Do they have an open-door policy to enable you to ask questions and find out information day-to-day?

9. Communications - is the school welcoming to parents and does it communicate with them clearly and regularly. Good schools will be effective communicators, so parents can be fully informed about their child’s progress and well-being.

10. Research! This is important – research the schools you are visiting. Look at the Ofsted or ISI report and, if possible, talk to other parents. Often the best information about schools comes from other parents with children already at school.

Dr Carolyn Shelley is headmistress of Dean Close Pre-Preparatory School, Cheltenham, fondly known as ‘The Squirrels’.

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk March - April 2016

Education

The Ultimate Homework Guide

completed at the earliest opportunity so they can go off and relax – simply see what works for your child.

If, like many primary schoolers, they only get one or two pieces of homework a week, it might be best to tackle it at the weekend when they are not tired from school.

Help, yes, but don’t do it for them!

As a parent your key role is to ensure that your child has somewhere comfortable and quiet to do their homework and the items required, e.g. a dictionary or ruler. You may also need to clarify what a question means or provide support if they are stuck. But do A good working attitude: children benefit from your support with homework remember it is their homework not yours – if you are having to do it all for them on a regular basis, it may be too difficult - discuss this with their teacher.

Like it or not, homework is a necessary part of school life.

However, it does bring benefits: helping you see what your How much is too much? child has been doing in class, understanding their strengths Most primary age children will get 30 to 60 minutes a week and weaknesses and reinforcing learning. So how can you plus reading and perhaps spellings and times tables. If you think make homework run as smoothly as possible? your child is being set too much homework, again, it is definitely worth having a chat with their teacher. Additionally, if it’s taking

By Liat Hughes Joshi what you feel is an inappropriate amount of time, do not be afraid to stop and write him or her a note along the lines of ‘X Incorporate homework into a routine

spent an hour doing this and we felt it was enough’.

Many children benefit from having a set homework time - they Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four are somewhat less likely to push back if it is just what happens books published by Summersdale and Pearson. at 5pm. However you might both prefer homework to be

Open Day – Bank Holiday Monday 2nd May 2016, 9.30 am – 4.30 pm Co-educational • Day, Weekly, Flexi and Full Boarding • 3 – 13 years 01684 544 108 • registrar@thedowns.malcol.org • www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk Associated with Malvern College March - April 2016

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Spring book selection. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free book review website www.EdontheWeb.com.

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS Elspeth Hart and the School for Show-offs

by Sarah Forbes (Stripes £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Elspeth has had to live with her disgusting aunt Miss Crabb in the attic of the astonishingly awful School for Showoffs since her parents disappeared in a flood. Her aunt won’t allow her outdoors telling her that she is allergic to fresh air.

Elspeth’s memories of life before the flood are rather hazy but when she is hit on the head by a falling book, things began to change. With Rory, her only real friend, can Elspeth work out the truth of why she is being kept against her will in this dreadful school?’

Warning Cry by Kris Humphrey (Stripes £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Nara was chosen at birth as a Whisperer, a guardian of the wild. Although Nara’s family are not altogether supportive of her role as a Whisperer, she knows she must head north for the Whisperers’ council of war, accompanied only by her loyal leopard friend Flame. The shapeshifting enemy the Narlaw threaten to invade the kingdom of Meridina but with so few others able to help, will Nara and Flame succeed?’

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

Pugly Bakes a Cake by Pamela Butchart (Nosy Crow £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Meet Pugly, the dog who thinks big and has great ideas. His latest brilliant idea is to bake the yummiest cake ever for an exciting television show he would love to be on.

However Pugly doesn’t get any help from Clem the cat – in fact she goes out of her way to cause problems, even suggesting some very strange ingredients for the cake!’

Thunderbot’s Day of Doom by Alan MacDonald (Bloomsbury £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘Stan and his pals at Mighty High are training to be superheroes. The three finalists for this year’s Science Awards are about to be announced and there is much excitement about the special guest. When they are told it is to be a weatherman, the children couldn’t be more disappointed. But things hot up – or cool down! – when the weatherman becomes an evil robot. Can the Invincibles stop Thunderbot in his tracks before it is too late?’

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI awardwinning 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 can contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

See Maggie’s latest ebooks at www.WalkWalk.co.uk.

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Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk March - April 2016

Education How To Help Your Child Enjoy Bedtime Reading break them up into manageable chapters. As your child grows older and can read by themselves, encourage their interest in a story by reading the first part to them at bedtime, then allow them to continue the story by themselves the next day. Try to discuss the book and explain any ‘big’ words to improve vocabulary.

We’ve all been there – it’s bedtime, everybody is tired and a little grumpy. The answer is a good bedtime story.

By Justine Crow It’s never too early to start a bedtime story routine. Babies are soothed by the sound of your voice, so take a comfy chair and pick a book. Soon, your baby will recognise this as their bedtime story moment.

When they are older, reading together is an opportunity to bond and to establish a good bedtime routine. For older children, this is the perfect time to explore your child’s imagination. Consistency is good and a regular treat at bedtime gives your child something to look forward to. It also enforces the idea of reading as a positive thing.

When choosing books, choose a calming story to help your child drift off. Soon you will be able to choose long stories and

By the time they are able to read without help, it’s time to allow them to read for themselves. It’s a good idea to set a time limit before lights out. Don’t abandon reading together completely; finish a chapter to save tired eyes occasionally.

Bedtime stories can be useful and educational too; they can offer a way of sharing news and encouraging positive emotions, such as when there is a baby on the way, when your child is preparing to go to a new playgroup or school.

Local bookshops and libraries can advise you on the best titles and many online book companies categorise books by subject.

R EG

IA SCHOLA

Justine Crow is the author of The Little Book of Nits published by Bloomsbury. Parent of three, she owns her own bookshop with her partner, The Bookseller Crow on Hill in South East London.

King’s St Alban’s in Worcester caters for children aged 4 to 11 and, with the new extension to its vibrant and thriving Pre-Preparatory Department, can now offer more children the outstanding teaching and excellent pastoral care which is uniquely special to the school.

From your child’s first days their links with the Senior School allow for a seamless journey through the different stages of their education. They nurture the potential of every child in classes which are small enough to ensure consistent attention, but large enough to allow friendships to blossom and competition to remain healthy. In addition, with wraparound care from 8am until 6pm each day included in the fees, the benefits of a King’s education go even further.

Independent co-education in Worcester for ages 4 to 11

ORNIENSIS VIG

The Journey Begins

As the books become more difficult, the number of images often decreases but pictures are still important. Children still take pleasure in glancing at illustrations.

Activity Morning for all ages up to 6 years

Saturday 12 March 10am - 12noon Children will have the opportunity to enjoy a series of fun, interactive activities including music, painting, arts and crafts, and a session with the Jitterbugs! Tea and cake will be served.

Please call 01905 354906 or email ksa@ksw.org.uk

for more information.

On Saturday 12 March King’s invites you for an Activity Morning when you and your child can join in with a variety of activities suitable for younger children.

For more details call our Registrar, Mrs Louise Robins, on 01905 354906 or email lrobins@ksw.org.uk March - April 2016

Confidence in a changing world www.ksw.org.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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Education

How To Boost Your Child’s Literacy And Numeracy kid appeal. Try to find ones which align with the National Curriculum (or at least use British English to avoid conflict with what is done at school).

Encourage reading Reading opens the door to almost endless learning and enjoyment. Some children are naturally enthused by books, others need more nudging to get the reading bug. Firstly, encourage any reading at all – be it comics, magazines, the back of the cereal packet – without worrying much about what they are reading. Also try and home in on your child’s interests – reluctant readers might gain confidence with non-fiction relating to their hobbies.

Reading, writing and arithmetic: boost these skills

Literacy and numeracy are central to your child’s learning in primary school and will underpin many of the subjects they’ll cover during their secondary education. They are of course crucial to later life too.

your child and working on specific areas, you can make a huge difference to your child’s attainment. Keep it sensible though – even just ten or 15 minutes a day for Key Stage 1 children can have an impact, yet still leaves time for play.

Liat Hughes Joshi

Find out about the methods school uses to ensure consistency If you want to do some work at home, it will help your son or daughter greatly if the methods you use are consistent with those they are being taught at school – otherwise you can do more harm than good by confusing them. So do attend any curriculum information evenings the school holds, or ask the teacher for more information about methods.

Whether they are already winning at algebra or still struggling with basic sums, here are some ideas on how to give these key numeracy skills a boost.

A little extra learning at home can work wonders…but don’t go overboard!

Realistically, it is not always possible for teaching staff in busy classrooms of 30 pupils to provide the one-on-one attention children benefit from – perhaps looking at improving handwriting or listening to reading daily. By sitting with

Employ tech to your advantage There are some brilliant educational apps and websites out there with masses of

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Bedtime stories are a crucial opportunity to snuggle up discussing books together.

Parents of older kids could take on a more challenging classic together, taking it in turns to read a page.

Incorporate ‘stealth learning’ into everyday activities Sneak some maths and literacy into their day-to-day life and you can improve their skills without it feeling like schoolwork.

Adding up the cost of the shopping, dividing the bill in a restaurant, playing Monopoly or snakes and ladders, budgeting for that much-longed for Christmas present or helping with cooking are all brilliant but subtle numeracy activities. For literacy, writing shopping lists, sending a postcard or emailing grandparents might all help.

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and author of four books.

Help Tuition

Personal Tutors based in Malvern and Hereford

KS2, KS3, GCSE, A level English, Maths & Sciences Please contact Kate Bishop on 01684 562439 kate@helptuition.co.uk

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Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk March - April 2016

Simple Easter Crafts For Children Easter Egg Bunny

You’ll need:

You’ll need:

Poster paints

One hard-boiled egg

Stickers

Yellow and white felt

Glue

Plain white paper

Glitter

Easter Egg Bunting

PVA glue Felt tip pens in yellow, orange and black

Scraps of paper, fabric and wool Mini pegs String

1. Cut out lots of Easter egg shapes from the paper.

1. Take a freshly cooked and cooled hard-boiled egg.

2. Cut shapes for the bunny’s feet and hands out of the yellow felt; then cut larger ears shapes out of yellow felt and smaller ones from the white.

3. Stick the feet on the base of the egg, making sure the egg can stand upright on them.

4. Stick the white ears onto the yellow and when they have dried a little, stick them on to the rear of where the face will be.

5. Finally, draw a rabbit’s face on the front of the egg with the pens and decorate with patterns as your child likes.

2. Get the kids to use paint to create patterns on the eggs; stripes and circles work well.

3. Next, use the scraps of craft fabrics and stickers to make the eggs even more decorative.

4. Use some glue to create lines or shapes and scatter the glitter for the final touch.

5. When the egg shapes are dry, hang them on a piece of string with the colourful pegs. If you can’t find pegs, use coloured paper clips or simply thread the string through a hole in the top of each of the eggs.

Award-winning tuition Maths & English ages 5 -14

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Redditch 01527 910 222 www.explorelearning.co.uk March - April 2016

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

9

Clubs and Classes

How To Keep Yo In Their Early Y

Tips For Swimming With Your Baby: There are many things to consider when taking a baby swimming for the first time. Don’t be put off by the logistics! Swimming is one of the few things you can do with a tiny baby that you will each get the same amount of pleasure from.

A few hints and tips: You can bring your baby as soon as you are both ready, you don’t need to wait until they have had their jabs (we follow current NHS advice).

Choose a clean and well-managed pool, ideally heated to over 30°C. What should baby wear? In a warm pool just a swim nappy and a neoprene over-nappy. That is it!

When your baby gets out of the water they will probably be cold, tired and hungry! Have a generously sized hooded bath towel ready and milk or a healthy snack with you.

We take a look at the kinds of activities you can find to keep your pre-schooler amused.

Sally J. Hall Music From nursery rhyme sing-alongs in the local park or café to learning a simple instrument, teaching a very young child to love music will give them a lifelong gift. Look for independent classes or visit monkeymusic.co.uk

Bring a changing mat or towel.

Don’t forget to bring your costume and towel!

Arts and Crafts There are lots of places to drop in to get involved in crafting with your kids. They can learn skills such as painting, glueing, cutting out and sticking and of course the art of adding glitter!

Look for branches of The Creation Station (thecreationstation. co.uk) around the UK where kids get involved in creative play with their parents.

In Puddle Ducks classes the highly trained teachers help you to teach your baby to swim through play, gentle activities and song as the warm water gently massages them. At all times the emphasis is on allowing you to spend quality time with your baby. The programme introduces the underwater world and allows freedom of movement that your little one Football and Rugby will not have experienced since being in the womb. They do Little ones can learn how to kick and control the ball, use gross this safely and without pressure. motor skills and understand teamwork. Mini rugby is always For more information on classes please visit gentle and does not involve contact and the skills and size of www.puddleducks.com the pitches are suited to the kids’ ages. Look for a local club Email: Gloucestershire@puddleducks.com or call 01452 473073 which may allow kids to go into more serious games as they Email: Worcestershire@puddleducks.com or call 01905 888346. grow. See www.rugbytots.co.uk.

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Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk March - April 2016

Clubs and Classes

our Little Ones Amused Years Of Development Gymnastics Cecilia Hall Dance Centre, Indoor gym activities are good for rainy days and help with flexibility and Malvern strength. Look for classes suited for very Ballet Classes for Young Children: young kids that show them how to roll, Mondays and Fridays 2pm jump and use gym equipment in a safe Tuesdays 4pm ages 6-9 and controlled environment. As they get Wednesdays 4pm ages 5-7 older, they can start to take more Saturdays 10.15am ages 5-7 Saturdays 11.15 am ages 6-9 serious classes and enroll for certificates like those run by the British Gymnastics Many other classes for all ages Association (british-gymnastics.org).

Tap and Modern Dance. Regular Examinations R.A.D. Ballet and I.S.T.D. Tap and Modern Regular Shows.

Swimming Learning to swim is a great and useful Telephone 01684 573663 or 07525 057492 life skill and it seems that the younger or email ceciliahalldance@live.co.uk for you start, the less likely it is that your information and to enrol. child will be nervous in water. Many local leisure centres run mother and baby swim sessions where you can start to If youu would like to advertise in teach your child how to gain confidence Families Hereford & Worcester in the water. Look for classes like Puddle magazine and reach 44,000 readers Ducks (www.puddleducks.com). then please call 01684 770566

Theatre It’s never too early to start treading the boards and there are lots of drama and acting clubs for even quite small kids. They teach about self expression, working within a group and confidence.

Stagecoach runs classes all over the UK (stagecoach.co.uk).

Languages Children from bi-lingual families seem to cope well with two languages from a very early age. Even if you and your partner both speak English, you may want your child to learn a second language from an early age to stand them in good stead for their later education and also if you have family or a holiday home in another country. Find a small group or one-to-one sessions where your child has fun and plays games in a second language.

Dance Teaching grace, strength and movement; dancing is a great form of exercise and can be enjoyed from a young age. Look for a class that is not too formal at first so that the emphasis is on play and enjoyment. If your child shows promise, they can go on to take Royal Academy of Dance certificates later on. Look for Dance In Motion (www.danceinmotion.co.uk) in Malvern.

Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

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monday 30th march Monday 4th April Wednesday 1st5th april Tuesday April Wednesday 8th april Wednesday 6th April Friday 10th 8th aprilApril Friday @ peopleton Village Hall

@Peopleton Wr10 2EG Village Hall 9.00am WR10 2EG- 3.30pm 9.00am - 3.00pm Wrap around care available

Roller Skating, Sports/Games, Fun activities:roller skating Treasure Hunt,treasure Dance/Cheerleading, sports/Games, Hunt Dance/Cheerleading Cooking/Crafts, Football, Bouncy Cooking/Crafts, Football (coached by Castle, Plasma Cars ex National Villa player), Bouncy Castle (weather permitting)

Booking Essential • Sibling discounts Booking Essential • Sibling discounts t: 01905 840396 E: info@kosport.co.uk W: www.kosport.co.uk

T: 01905 840396 E: info@kosport.co.uk W:www.kosport.co.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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Clubs and Classes Putting The Magic Back Into The Easter Holidays

Easter fun: Super Camps entertain children over the school holidays

OPEN DAY FREE TASTER SESSIONS E: redditch.worcester@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01527 62378 Open Days Taking Place At The Following Locations: 1. Emmanuel Church, The Ecumenical Centre, 6 Evesham Walk, Redditch, B97 4EX 2. Countryside Centre, Worcester Woods Country Park, Wildwood Drive, Worcester, WR5 2LG 3. Hampton Guide, Scout and Community Hall, Pershore Road, Evesham, WR11 2PQ

Exclusive membership discounts if you book today!

Looking for something for your children to do this Easter?

Then Super Camps daily activity camps are the perfect way to put the magic back into the school holidays. The programme is jam-packed with fun activities that will keep your children entertained for hours, and our 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating gives you the peace of mind that your children are in the best possible care. Camps include a variety of sports, games, and arts and crafts. www.supercamps.co.uk

Holiday fun: action packed Easter camps keep children safe and entertained

Active Holiday Fun TIME TO ENTER A NEW WORLD

Acting, singing and dance classes for 4 to 18 year olds.

Find out more and start your child’s journey today

Evesham 01386 429 429 evesham@stagecoach.co.uk

Redditch 01386 429 429 redditch@stagecoach.co.uk

Worcester Bromsgrove 01926 651159 01926 313660 bromsgrove@stagecoach.co.uk worcester@stagecoach.co.uk

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Families Hereford & Worcester

Aspire Active Camps provides sports and activity childcare during every school holiday throughout the year for children between 4-14 years old.

Their number one aim is to ensure your child has fun. However, safety is paramount and as an Ofsted registered provider, it goes that extra mile giving you peace of mind in knowing that your child is cared for in the best environment possible. You are also able to pay via childcare vouchers.

The next camps will take place in the Easter holidays at a range of locations across the Midlands. The Hagley camp will take place at Hagley High School and we have the Multisports Academy with an exciting timetable of activities. And the Bromsgrove camp will take place at North Bromsgrove High School where there are Multisports, a Football Academy and Dance & Stage Beatz. http://www.aspire-sports.co.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk March - April 2016

What’s On THEATRE Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1AX 01527 577330, www.artrix.co.uk Pongo’s Party You are invited to Pongo’s Party - take part in a huge game of pass the parcel and join the largest children’s band in town! 29 March 2.00 pm £10.00, £9.00 under 16s Puss in Boots a silent comedy for all the family about duty, bravery and biscuits. 5 April 2.00 pm £7.00, £5.00 under 16s Evesham Arts Centre Theatre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4QH 01386 48883, www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Swan Lake A magical love story performed by the Vienna Festival Ballet. There will be a Meet and Greet with the whole cast after the performance. 28 March 5.00 pm £20.00 adult £13.00 child Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org The Railway Children York Theatre Royal’s Olivier award-winning production based on the E. Nesbit classic. Recorded at the National Railway Museum in York. 29 March & 2 April 2.30 pm £12.50, £10.00 under 16s Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, Worcs, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Pinocchio Join Ballet Theatre UK as we tell the tale of a wooden puppet carved from pine with but only one wish…to become a real boy. 30 March 2.30 pm £18.00 adult, £13.00 under 16s Professor Pepperpot’s Balloontastic Magic Show Professor Pepperpot brings his unique style of magic, mayhem and balloons to the Palace. 6 April 10.45 am £4.50, £6.50, £15.00 family Beauty And The Beast Beauty enjoys a quiet provincial life with her father. One day her world is turned upside down when she stumbles across a terrifying Beast who takes her captive and an evil Enchantress holds her kingdom to ransom. 9 April 3.00pm and 7.00 pm £16.00, £14.50, £54.00 family Annie A family classic, this smash hit Broadway musical, is based on the comic strip Little Orphan 19-23 April 7.30pm £15.00, £50.00 family Silly Spring Stories Come and listen to Gavin Young – famed for his energetic, enthusiastic and theatrical telling of rare tales! 23 April 10.30am £3.00

The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555, www.courtyard.org.uk Courtyard Family festivals Following on from the very successful Herefordshire Family Festival, The Courtyard are hosting an event for all the family.

Activities include workshops, films, shows and supplementary activities for all the family to enjoy. Lots of family fun. Most Saturdays in March - April 10.30am £6.00 per ticket Tweedy’s Lost Property A comedy about a clown who gives in to society and gets a real job. Not knowing who he is anymore, Tweedy gets a job in a Lost Property Office to try and find himself. 3 April 3.00 pm £13.00, £35 family ticket Egg And Spoon A special theatre show for the early years. An interactive romp through the seasons where you come in and out of a magic circle and get to open all the gifts of nature. 16 April 11.00am £6.00 The Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED 01905 611427, www.worcesterlive.co.uk STAC presents Children’s Theatre Spring Is Sprung by Robin Russell (Amateur Hirer) Plays acted by adults provide fun, songs and audience participation for two-to-nine-year-olds. Can the Springtime Fairy and the Lollipop Lady stop Hector the Collector adding more butterflies to his collection and teach him to respect the life of the countryside?

5 March 10.30 and 11.45 am £2.50

GARDEN CENTRES The Valley, Evesham, WR11 4TP 01386 298026, www.eveshamcountrypark.co.uk DirtRun In The Dark A multi-terrain 8.6k (5.3 miles) run, based at The Valley, Evesham. The run is a mass start event, following tracks, trails, woods and paths, with mud thrown in for good measure! This is 2 laps of a 4.3km loop. The junior race is 2.2km and follows the same start, and final loop of the main route. The event supports St Richards Hospice. 11 March registration closes at 18:15 for the junior race and 18:45 prompt for the senior race £5.00 (Junior) £15.00 (Senior)

Breakfast or Tea with the Easter Bunny Enjoy a delicious freshly prepared breakfast or tea. Meet the Easter Bunny and choose your very own cuddly toy, Decorate your own Easter cookie and munch on mini chocolate eggs 14-28 March £9.99 per child From 9.00am and from 3.00 pm £3.00 per child

MUSEUMS Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Mother’s Day Free Museum entry for Mums.

6 March Easter Family Fun Days Living history demonstrations and lots of traditional Easter fun, including egg & spoon racing and egg rolling!

27- 28 March Roald Dahl Anniversary Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Roald Dahl’s birth in whizz-popping fashion! 29-31 March and 5-7 April St George’s Day Remember England’s patron saint with a legendary day at Avoncroft – with knights and dragons! 23 April Forge Mill Needle Museum, Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY 01527 62509, www.forgemill.org.uk It’s A Small World Dolls houses, Lego cities, miniature gardens and mini egg hunt. Easter Holidays The Elgar Birthplace Museum, Crown East Lane, Lower Broadheath, Worcester, WR2 6RH 01905 333224, www.elgarmuseum.org Animal Eggstravaganza - Farmyard Trail Take part in the Farmyard Trail by finding hidden animals around the Museum! 25 March - 10 April 11.00 am Animal Eggstravaganza Make Easter animal pencil toppers, design your own Easter bunny ears or design and colour in an Easter egg and hang it in our Cottage garden (or take it home to hang in your own!)

31 March 11.00am - 4.00pm

Wyevale Garden Centre Kings Acre Road, Hereford, HR4 0SE 01527 860000, www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk

Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum, Foregate Street, Worcester, WR1 1DT 01905 25371, www.museumsworcestershire. org.uk

Mother’s Day - Plant a Pot for Mum Plant three beautiful plants in a terracotta pot, creating a wonderful gift that Mum will love! 5-6 March 11.00 am – 1.00 pm £5.00 per pot.

Young at Art Looking for a hands-on, stimulating and fun toddler session? Go and enjoy exploring, listening and making sessions for the Under 5s Every Thursday 10.30 am – 12 noon Open Fri 25th March - Sat 29th October

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

Established 1992 Fully Qualified Instructors Specialised Classes 4 – 16 years Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced

Train with Sensei Jags Shoker, 3rd Dan Monday: St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Droitwich Spa 5.30 – 6.30 pm Tuesday: Woodrush High School, Worcester 6.00 – 7.00 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, Special Bromsgrove 9.15–10.15 am

offer 5 FREE lessons

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

March - April 2016

EASTER HOLIDAY SPECIALS Treasure Hunt, Lamb Bottle Feeding & Baby Animals!

NEW FOR 2016 Improved Indoor Play Barn with Toddler Soft Play, Seating & Hot Food!

Exclusive Party Hire

Tractor & Pony Rides | Hands on Pet Time | Giant Sandpits Indoor & Outdoor Play and Picnic Areas | Zip Wire | Trampolines

www.NewbridgeFarmPark.com Little Marcle, Nr Ledbury, HR8 2QG | 01531 670780 FREE bag of animal food with this voucher

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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What’s On

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.

Hampton Court, Hope-Under-Dinmore, Leominster, HR6 0PN 01568 797777 www.hamptoncourt.org.uk

Easter Garlands Children’s Workshop Create a 3D garland for your door or Easter table from card, fabric and paint (suitable for 7 years upwards). Every Thursday 11.00 am – 1.00 pm £4.50

Exotic Animal and Bird Encounters with Trevor Hill Enter the amazing world of Exotic Animals, Reptiles, Insects and Birds. These Encounters will bring you up close and personal with Meerkats, Skunks, Spiders and Lizards to name just a few! 25-31 March and 6-7 April 10.30 am – 5.00 pm

Steward’s Chemist Shop Open for Visitors Take a peek inside and hear the fascinating story of how it came from the High Street. 1 March and 5 April 11.00 am – 3.00 pm Free Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury DY11 7XZ 01299 250416, www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk Mothers Day All Mums admitted free if accompanied by a paying child 6 March 11.00 am - 5.00 pm Explore the First World War Learn more about the first world war, talk to recovering soldiers & nurses in our replica bell tent, discover our new exhibition about Hartlebury’s time as a VAD hospital & enjoy live music of the era. 28 March 11.00 am - 4.00 pm Explore the First World War-Holiday Activities. Craft activities and games exploring the First World War. 29-31 March and 5-7 April 10.30am-4.00pm.

DAYS OUT Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, Burford, Oxfordshire, OX18 4JP 01993 823006, www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Lemur Week As Lemurs are now one of the most threatened groups of mammals on the planet we are

Children’s Easter Trail 25 March -10 April 10.30 am – 5.00 pm hosting a week of fun activities and keeper talks to help raise awareness and funds for Lemur Conservation in Madagascar. 21-29 March

Severn Valley Railway, Comberton Hill, Kidderminster, DY10 1QX 01562 757900, www.svr.co.uk

World Penguin Day Our Penguin keepers will be providing a range of fun activities to help raise awareness for Humboldt Penguin Conservation in support of Sphenisco. There will be extra Penguin talks and feeds on 24 April, as well other competitions and activities for our visitors to join in. 24 April

See Peppa Pig and George Enjoy a steam train ride and see your favourite characters. Peppa Pig & George will appear at regular intervals throughout the day at The Engine House and at the Visitor Centre at Highley. Magic Shows will also be taking place throughout the day with A Box of Tricks. Advance booking striongly advised 8 May

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 legendary Easter Treasure Hunt around the castle and grounds. Chocolate for everyone who takes part and a chance to win an enormous Easter Egg! 25-28 March 11.00 am–5.30pm £10.00, £7.00 child, £28.00 family.

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! 31 March 10.00 am - 5pm £6.00 (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.

17 March 5.00 – 7.30pm Meet the Author – John Dougherty Join John Dougherty, poet, songwriter and author of Stinkbomb and Ketchup Face stories, who entertains with wacky humour. 16 March 4.00 am – 5.00 pm £4 per person, £13 for 1 adult & 3 children Big Easter Hunt Follow the trail through The Hive and its grounds and make the most amazing discoveries. A treat every time. 26 March - 10 April 8.30am - 10.00 pm 50p to take part.

New Indoor Playbarn And Lots Of Easter Fun At Newbridge

Newbridge Farm Park has lots to offer for Easter fun when it reopens for the season on Good Friday, including a free Easter treasure hunt, lamb bottle feeding, and lots of Spring baby animals!

New for 2016, part of the playbarn has been converted to an indoor playbarn, with plenty of seating for eating and watching your children play, indoors or out. Toddlers will love the new soft play area within the playbarn, whilst parents and carers can supervise them as they enjoy something from an improved selection of hot and cold beverages.

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Families Hereford & Worcester

As well as these new features, the park continues to offer free tractor rides for all, a hands on pet session with fluffy animals and large insects, animal feeding and pony rides. Play facilities are suitable for all ages from toddlers to older children, who can enjoy trampolines, a zip wire, a rope swing, hay bale tunnels, giant sandpits and more.

The park takes school and party bookings, offering a designated party space, and offers exclusive after hours hire. For details: www.newbridgefarmpark. com or call 01531 670780.

The Firebird A magical telling of the traditional Russian adventure by Multistory Theatre Company.

1 April 2pm, adults £5, children £3, babies free.

Witley Court and Gardens, Worcester Road, Great Witley, WR6 6JT 01299 896636, www.english-heritage.org.uk Easter Adventure Quest Adventurers wanted this Easter weekend! You’ll meet a character 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. It’s time to get hands-on with history.

25-28 March 11.00 am – 5.00 pm National Trust 0844 800 1895 www. nationaltrust.org.uk Berrington Hall, nr Leominster, HR6 0DW Tel: 01568 615721 Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Step back to the 18th century and join the hunt for the Georgian boots and bonnets and find them all to collect your Cadbury Chocolate Egghead prize at the end.

25 - 28 March 10.00 – 4.00 pm. £2.00 per trail.

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk March - April 2016

What’s On

Please mention you saw the event in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine

Brockhampton Estate, Greenfields, Bringsty, Herefordshire, WR6 5TB 01885 482077

Croome after dark Go on a night time walk with members of our team round the park at Croome ... you’ll see Croome in a different light. 9 March 6.30pm – 8.30 pm £6.00, £4.00 child including light refreshments Croome’s Easter egg hunt trail Croome’s Cadbury Easter egg hunt trail is back! Follow the clues to help unravel the mystery of the lost eggs.

24 March - 10 April 10.00am – 4.00pm £2.50 per trail

Mother’s day card making Craft a card for your mum inspired by the beauty of Brockhampton. 6 March 11.00 am – 4.30 pm Leaping Lambs Easter Egg Hunt Bunny has left leaping lambs all around Brockhampton. Hunt for the lambs, complete the trail and win a Cadbury’s prize. 25 March – 10 April 11.00 am – 5.00 pm Medieval Mayhem Inspired by our medieval history learn how to be a jester at jester school with Sylvesta the Jester, listen to the wandering minstrels from Ledbury Waytes and discover a wonderful world of medieval silliness and fun. 2 April 11.00 – 5.00 pm Clent Hills, Nimmings Wood car park, between Hagley and Stourbridge, B62 0NL 01562 712822 Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Pick up a pushchair friendly Little Chicks Trail or a more adventurous Eggsplorer Trail for the over 5’s. 27 March - 1 April 11.00 am – 4.00 pm £3.00 per trail.

Croft Castle, Yarpole, nr Leominster, HR6 9PW 01568 780246

Hanbury Hall, School Road, Hanbury, Droitwich, WR9 7EA 01527 821214 Mother’s Day Treat your Mum to a delicious afternoon tea in our Chambers tearoom, with beautiful views of the formal gardens. 6 March 1.00pm – 4.30 pm £16.95 Easter Egg Trail The Cadbury Bunny has hidden lots of chocolate at Hanbury Hall. Join us on a hunt around the gardens and meet bunny’s friends who’ll help you discover where he’s hidden the chocolate. 25 - 29 March 10.30 am – 4.00 pm Dawn Chorus Walk Join RSPB expert Garth Lowe for an early morning walk around Hanbury’s stunning gardens and discover the many songbirds that make it their home. 10 and 18 April 6.30 am – 9.00am £15.00 including cooked breakfast

CHARITY EVENTS Little Malvern Court, Little Malvern WR14 4JN

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Easter just wouldn’t be complete without the Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt! 25-28 March 10.00am–4.00 pm £2.00 Edwardian holiday trail Did you know that the Edwardians loved to decorate their eggs with jewels, colourful paint and ribbons?

Find all the fancy Edwardian eggs on this great family outdoor trail and collect your prize at the end.

29 March - 10 April 10.00am – 4.00pm £2.00 per item

Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW 01905 371006

NGS Garden Day A delight of Spring Bulbs and Flowers, plenty of free parking. No dogs. Tea & Cakes, Plants & Flowers for sale. In aid of SSAFA, 20 March 2.15 – 5.00 pm.

Croome Court, High Green, Worcester, WR8 9DW Great British Dog Walk at Croome Court Hearing Dogs for Deaf People are bringing this event to Croome Park.

A family and dog friendly event 20 March adults £10, dogs and kids free.

egg hunts and dragon's dens Brockhampton Estate

Leaping Lambs Easter Egg Hunt Fri 25 March - Sun 10 April, 11am - 4.30pm Bunny has spotted leaping lambs all around Brockhampton. Hunt for the lambs, complete the trail and win a Cadbury's prize. £2 per trail

© National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.

Delicarta - Bringing paper to life Berrington’s characters will be brought to life with exquisitely hand-crafted life size costumes which from a distance look like they’re made of silk but are in fact paper. 26 March - 6 November 11.00 am – 4.00 pm

Dragon's Den Building Sat 23 April, 2 - 5pm

Celebrate St George's day by building a den for his fiercest enemy- the dragon!

Booking essential. £5 per person

01885 482077 nationaltrust.org.uk/brockhampton

/EastnorCastle @EastnorCastle

#EasteratEastnor

Fri 25th to Mon 28th March

EGGstraordinary

Easter

Buy fast-tra

ck

tickets online

Our legendary Easter Treasure Hunt around the castle and grounds. Chocolate for everyone who takes part and a chance to win an enormous Easter Egg! 11am until 5.30pm • Castle & Grounds admission only

eastnorcastle.com

It’s a Small World At Forge Mill this Easter

Easter

eggstravaganza Easter Bunny Trailer Tours, Chick & Bunny Handling, Goat Feeding... Plus lots more!

A great day for the whole family!

Opening 24th March, until 10th April.

No activities run on Sundays and closed Easter Sunday.

Check our website for activity details and schedule.

01905 621 954 www.topbarn.co.uk shop@topbarn.co.uk Top Barn Farm, Holt Heath, Worcester WR6 6NH March - April 2016

Doll’s houses, Lego cities, miniature gardens and mini egg hunts.

See www.forgemill.org.uk for details Forge Mill Needle Museum & Bordesley Abbey Visitor Centre Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, Worcs, B98 8HY

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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Don’t forget to say you saw these advertisements in the Families Hereford & Worcester magazine

THE UK’s NO.1 FOREST ADVENTURE at Forest of Dean, Wyre Forest & Cannock Forest

Bookor caallt08g45o09a4p97e46.cquoot.ue FAkM666 †

*Offer valid until 30.11.16, excluding Saturdays, bank holidays and Corporate Events. Discount code must be entered at time of booking. Only valid at Forest of Dean, Wyre Forest & Cannock Forest. †Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge. Participation and supervision ratios apply - please see our website.

10

% OFF

PER PERSON*

! s e i t i v i t c A s d i K SOFT PLAY! Toddler soft play sessions weekly at all centres for under 5s.

Inflatable fun in a safe, supervised environment!

SWIMMING! fun splash hour and parent & toddler swim sessions are available weekly or why not enrol your child on our structured, progressive learn to swim courses?. ASA Duckling or ASA Stage 1 - 7 swimming lessons + Gold/Silver/Bronze levels.

Call Your Local Centre to Find out more or to Book an Activity.

Evesham: 01386 444212 Pershore: 01386 552346 Droitwich: 01905 771212 Bromsgrove: 01527 549130 www.wychavonleisure.co.uk

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Families Hereford & Worcester

CLIMBING Our climbing taster sessions are great fun with groups for kids age 5-7yrs & 8-16yrs. (*Evesham Only) PARTY TIME! Pick from a Sport, Soft Play, Dance, Climbing, Dance or Pool Splash Party!

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk March - April 2016