Families Hereford and Worcester issue 7 Jan-Feb 2011

The really useful magazine for parents of children 0-12 years

Special Nurseries Feature

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Issue No 7 January/February 2011

Editor’s Letter

News & Views Happy New Year! I am proud to say that Families Hereford and Worcester is officially one year old!

In this issue read our nursery feature to help you choose the right preschool or nursery for your child and check out the local schools open day listings if you are deliberating about schools and would like the opportunity to visit.

Very sadly is a great need V dl there h d ffor good d ffoster carers in our area and indeed the whole of the country. If you think you have what it takes to become a foster carer then please consider it. You could make such a difference to a child’s life.

Lastly, we are constantly updating our website with lots of local news and information for you so please visit www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk and register.

May 2011 be a successful and happy year for all of us.

Karen Craven Editor, Families Hereford and Worcester

Contact details: Families Hereford and Worcester, PO Box 843, Inkberrow, Worcestershire, WR7 4WG Tel: 0844 504 7224 Fax: 0844 504 7201 email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

In this issue Editor’s Letter News & Views Education Choosing a nursery Businesswomen Focus on popular local class What’s On

Next issue: March/April 2011, Editorial and booking deadline: 11th February 2011

Credit: Gareth Craven

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All content Copyright 2011 Families Hereford and Worcester Circulation: 17,500 copies of Families Hereford and Worcester are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, 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.

Editorial: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk Advertising: advertising@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk Events, diary dates, out and about: events@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk 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 www.matobodesign.com, Tel: 020 8676 2857 Print: Ridgeway Press, 12 Campbell Court, Bramley, Tadley, Hampshire RG26 5EG. Tel 01252 885837

POW (Positive Opportunities Worcestershire) is a government project to help children and young people try new activities that will help them at school and in life.

POW money is for children and young people in Worcestershire whose families may find it difficult to pay for activities or who are in care. It can be spent on activities offered at school or other places, like leisure centres or clubs.

POW money can also pay fees for clubs such as Scouts, Cubs, Beavers, Brownies and many other organisations, even to join a local football team or music group. The money can also pay for a pass for activities.

To find out if your child can get any POW money you will need to speak to your child’s school. Those families who currently claim free school meals or children and young people who are looked after will definitely be able to.

If your child is able to use POW money you will need to talk to your child/ children and decide which activities they would like to attend.

If the activity is less than £5 per week you can book your child straight onto the activity and fill out an activity request form and hand it back into school.

School will then use the form to pay the cost of the activity.

To book activities which cost more than this or to pay joining fees, transport or equipment costs, you will first need to talk to your school.

Activity request forms are available on request from school.

For additional information on the activities available in your area you can call the Family Information Service on 01905 790560 or email familyinfo@worcestershire.gov.uk POW is funded and supported by Worcestershire County Council’s Extended Services in and around schools team.

Find out more by visiting www.worcestershire.gov.uk/pow

Cover photograph: Gareth Craven

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January – February 2011

News & Views

Kumon maths and English: Free Trial 1 February – 28 February The Christmas break is now over and the second school term has begun; what better a time to start thinking about how you can support your child’s learning? And with a Kumon Free Trial round the corner, it could not be easier.

Leading supplementary education provider Kumon offers individualised maths and English study programmes tailored to each child’s age and ability.

Through working at their own pace every day, children are given not only a strong grounding in maths and English, but fundamental learning skills such as accuracy, time management, concentration and independence in study.

Kumon aims to provide each child with tools for transferable learning and to ensure that they study at a level that is right for them. By building on secure foundations, repeating work as necessary and learning at their own pace, children are able to boost their confidence whilst developing strong study skills, helping to achieve their potential at school and beyond.

Enrol your child at your local study centre between 1 February and 28 February 2011 to take advantage of our Free Trial and see how the Kumon method can benefit your child.

For further information or to enrol at your nearest Kumon centre, call 0800 854 714 or visit kumon.co.uk.

NipperGrip The NipperGrip is a must for any family going skiing with young children. Developed by Sussex husband and wife, James and Katherine, over years of teaching their three children to ski, the NipperGrip is a ski harness for children up to 8 years old. It is unique in that it has a handle on the front and the back so you can pick your child up whichever way they fall. The NipperGrip makes getting on and off chairlifts easy – no more panics or having to stop the lift while you untangle your child on the floor. The NipperGrip also comes with detachable reins so you can control your child’s direction and speed as they ski along in front of you. Its use is not limited to skiing, it is also good for cycle training, roller or ice skating.

Order online at www.nippergrip.com.

Wildplay with Bright Kids Bright Kids Nursery Group, a major childcare provider, with nurseries in Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire and Birmingham, are delighted to be taking part in an exciting project being delivered by Warwickshire Wildlife Trust at their Studley nursery.

Bright Kids at Studley are involved with the project called Wildplay. This exciting opportunity has been funded by the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust and is delivered by Jenny Lee, Wildplay ranger. Jenny delivers sessions involving children in natural play activities in local green-spaces and natural habitats. The project encourages children’s interest in and empathy with their surroundings and potentially reducing negative behaviour and encourage positive behaviour within both the local and wider community. This is done through delivering play sessions involving activities and games linked to nature and environment.

Lorraine Ashord, Nursery Manager said “This unique experience has enhanced the Bright Kids children’s natural curiosity to learn about and appreciate nature. They are really enjoying the sessions and we think it is great to be part of this unique project”.

The Wildplay project is funded by the Big Lottery Fund and delivered on behalf of Stratford Council so sessions are free of charge.

Each session involves a mix of games and craft, usually linked to a nature topic. The most recent session focused on our senses discovering nature. The children were introduced to different touch and smells, then discovered their own outdoors. Nature cocktails were created and shared around the group. This session makes them aware of the variety of ways they can experience nature around them.

Photograph from Left to right: Exciting times with Harvey Hanson 3yrs, Max Wright 3yrs, Jenny Lee from Wildplay and Poppy Rauer 3yrs

January – February 2011

Bright Kids provide a comprehensive range of services: baby care, toddler care, preschool education and breakfast, after school and holiday clubs. They stand out by the genuine provision of stimulating environments to secure a brighter and healthier future for our kids. If you want to take an informal look around you may call in at anytime.

Call 01527 852165 for more details. www.bright-kids.co.uk

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News & Views Headway North Worcestershire Headway North Worcestershire provides a lifeline to people with an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI). Their team of staff and volunteers give valued support to people with an ABI, whatever the cause and also support their families and carers.

Brain injuries can happen to any member of the family at any time in their life. Effects of an ABI range between being very mild to severe and can impair a person’s ability to live normally.

Going to school or work, speaking, walking, washing and preparing food can seem impossible.

Brain injuries can completely change a person and the shock of the initial injury is just the beginning. Coming to terms with a disability can take months or years, and that’s where the national charity Headway comes in to offer help and support.

Headway’s North Worcestershire branch operates from two centres in Stourport and Bromsgrove.

“Our clients approach Headway with various difficulties, often feeling very isolated and low. All our support plans are geared toward the individual, based on goals the clients set themselves and they change regularly as these goals are achieved. Our aim is to rebuild independence and enable a better quality of life,” says the ABI Services Manager.

Headway’s ABI Service runs from Headway House in Stourport five days a week, and the Wendron Centre in Bromsgrove one day a week. ABI Services offers a wide range of living skills and creative activities including Art, Cookery, Gardening and much more. Headway employs a qualified counsellor, a graduate psychologist and trained teaching staff. Some of the courses available enable clients to get GCSE equivalent qualifications.

Headway also supports clients in their own homes and in the community through the Community Support team. This support can include help organising finance, socialising, exercising, home skills and much more. Support is far-ranging, very individual and changes regularly as the need for support changes.

Headway’s services are supported by Worcester County Council and Worcester Primary Care Trust but Headway relies heavily on donations to continue their work. The work they do is worth far more than cash value. Headway unites families broken by brain injury, helps to organise respite and provides invaluable emotional and physical support and advice to the brain injured person.

They provide new skills, fun and creative activities and social time that many clients would not otherwise get. Most importantly of all they pave the road back to independent living and a better quality of life.

For more information, or to make a referral, please call Vicky at Headway on 01299 878738. You can also visit the Headway website at www.headwaynw.org.uk

Fostering – helping to change young people’s lives …

Fostering may not be something you have thought about before. Many people do not realise that they have precious skills which could really help turn a child’s life around and make such a difference.

There is currently a shortage of more than 8,000 foster carers in England and around 600 in the West Midlands alone. Fostering Agencies face the constant challenge of trying to encourage new foster carers with the right skills and commitment to consider a career in fostering.

Many existing campaigns assume that consumers are already thinking about fostering. In fact 80% of people have not even considered fostering as an option.

Why decide to become a foster carer?

This is what one couple, who are foster carers with Clifford House, had to say. “We became foster carers because we had enough space in the house and we believed that we had raised our own children well, offering them a loving and stable home so it seemed like a natural thing to do, offering a loving and proper home to other children. I was 100% sure we could give any child or young person these things (love and stability) regardless of their background.

A good home, good food, love and attention, these things are essential and what I enjoy offering.”

What makes a good foster carer?

Another foster carer says “Patience and love, consistency and care and having a big heart are things I think make a good foster carer. Being a strong person and knowing right and wrong are essential plus being honest and flexible. You have to be able to build trusting relationships with the children and that takes time and patience sometimes.”

Carers attend training sessions regularly and also have the opportunity to meet with other carers to share ideas and experiences. They have regular support from a support worker and also with social workers.

“Ultimately, fostering is a job but it’s far more than that because the children become part of your family. I very much enjoy being a foster carer and although there have been some difficulties along the way, I find it rewarding and am happy with the choice my family, my husband and I have made.”

If you are interested in becoming a foster carer with Clifford House Fostering Ltd please phone Liz Paterson on 0845 618 2624 or email liz@clifford-house.co.uk. www.clifford–house.co.uk 4

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January – February 2011

News & Views Tonia Peters

Protect your children from ElectroMagnetic Radiation – Families campaigns

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

Educational Psychologist (Chartered by the BPS)

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

We’ve all heard that mobiles may carry health risks, and although most of the research into mobile phones and phone masts has found no effect on human health, few researchers look specifically at the effects of phone radiation on children and young people. “Invisible radio frequency radiation can alter living cells and create the same types of damage that we know increase the risk of cancer and neurological disease,” says Dr Devra Davis, public health specialist and author of Disconnect: The Truth About Cell Phone radiation. “Our children are growing up in a sea of radio frequency radiation that did not exist five years ago,” she adds, and there is a belief that children are more susceptible because their brain tissue is still growing and their skulls are thinner. In France, research that exposure to carcinogens in young people comes with more serious risks than for adults has led to the decision to ban primary school children from using mobiles, and discouraging phone advertising aimed at children. They are also removing wireless communication systems from public places such as libraries.

Tel: 07853 248311

Are you worried about your weight?

If you are, then Cambridge Weight Plan could be the answer.

Cambridge Weight Plan is about choices, made by you to benefit you. With one to one support, together, we will work out a plan that suits your lifestyle – helping you achieve the best results at the rate you want.

If you would like to change your life and become the real you, give me a call to discuss your options with Cambridge Weight Plan, with no obligation.

Your Independent Cambridge Consultant Laura - 01905 458147 / 07894 330154 laura21028@yahoo.co.uk

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January – February 2011

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The science may still be sketchy but perhaps until it becomes clearer we might follow the advice of Dr Davis: keep calls on mobile phones short, text rather than call, never carry a live mobile next to your body and always use a headset. You can see her advice to teenagers at www.environmentalhealthtrust.org, or check out the guidance from a group of concerned parents who have looked closely at the science: www.wiredchild.org

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Education SCHOOLS’ OPEN DAYS BROMSGROVE PRE-PREPARATORY AND NURSERY SCHOOL Co-ed 3 – 7 Saturday 22nd January 10am – 12pm 01527 579679 ext 204/367 or email preprep@bromsgrove-school.co.uk DODDERHILL Co-ed 8 weeks – 3 years, co-ed 3-7 and girls 8-16 Wednesday 26th January 10.00 – 12.00 pm and 1.30 – 3.00 pm 01905 778290 or email info@dodderhill.co.uk www.dodderhill.co.uk

St Mary’s Worcester Tops National League Pupils at St Mary’s School in Worcester are exceeding expectations according to a league table that places the school in the top 5% of schools nationally for its value added measure. The news follows a successful visit by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in which pupils’ behaviour was described as “exemplary” and their social development as “exceptional.”

The value added measure is based on the difference between the predicted results of a pupil entering Year 7 and their actual results at GCSE at 16 years of age. Pupils in schools placed in the top 5% of schools are judged to be making exceptional progress.

KING’S WORCESTER Co-ed 11-18 General Open Morning Saturday 22nd January 9.30 am – 12.00 01905 721742 or email info@ksw.org.uk www.ksw.org.uk

St Mary’s provides a girls’ only education from aged 4 through to 18 years together with a co-educational nursery housed in the Stables. Mrs Catherine Jawaheer, the new Headmistress of St Mary’s School believes the school’s success lies in the very particular brand of single-sex education it offers:

RGS SPRINGFIELD Co-ed 2 1/2-11 Saturday 15th January 10.00 am – 1.00 pm 01905 24999 or email: springfield@rgsw.org.uk

“At St Mary’s the teachers are experts at understanding what makes girls tick. School life is focused around nurturing a girl’s self confidence, developing their intellectual curiosity and encouraging creative thinking.

This is achieved within very small classes which allows for an extraordinary level of personal support and care. Girls know they are valued and they in turn value their friends and teachers.”

RGS THE GRANGE Co-ed 2 1/2 -11 Saturday 22nd January 9.30am-12 noon 01905 451205 or email: grange@rgsw.org.uk

The ISI Report, based on a three day inspection which looked at all aspects of the school, described the pupils’ personal development as excellent: “Pupils grow into confident, thoughtful and articulate young women who embrace the school’s ethos and the compassionate nature of the community. They are supported in this by excellent pastoral care.”

The report goes on to describe pupils behaviour as exemplary and their social development as exceptional with the relations between each other and with staff “characterised by kindness and consideration.”

Pupils success in all aspects of the curriculum is attributed both to the pupils who “approach their endeavours sensibly with vigour and interest,” and to “thorough and effective teaching in small classes.”

“We are obviously delighted with this report which recognised the distinct nature of educational opportunities we offer here at St Mary’s, commented Mrs Jawaheer. However, we are not standing still! I am looking forward to developing the opportunities and outcomes for all our girls so that on leaving school they are able to face the challenges ahead and lead happy and fulfilled lives.” www.stmarys.org.uk 6

KING’S ST ALBAN’S Co-ed 4-11 Open Week for ages 4-11 Monday 24th – Thursday 27th January Children’s Day in School for ages 7-11 Friday 28th January 01905 354906 or email ksa@ksw.org.uk www.ksw.org.uk

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RGS WORCESTER Co-ed 11-18 Saturday 15th January 9am - 12 noon 01905 613391 or email: office@rgsw.org.uk www.rgsw.org.uk ST MARY’S WORCESTER Co-ed 3mths – 5yrs, Girls 5-11, Girls 11-18 Open Morning Friday 21st January 10.00 am – 1.00 pm 01905 357786 or email: head@stmarys.org.uk www.stmarys.org.uk WINTERFOLD HOUSE Co-ed 6 wks – 3yrs, 3-7, 7-13 Saturday 12th February 10.00 am 01562 777234 or email: linda@winterfoldhouse.co.uk www.winterfoldhouse.co.uk IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE INCLUDED IN THE SCHOOLS’ OPEN DAYS, PLEASE EMAIL EVENTS@FAMILIESHEREFORDANDWORCS.CO.UK

January – February 2011

Education head and tell you the answer straight away.

We’ve also noticed a difference in her other subjects. Her concentration has greatly improved in the last 2 months as well.”

First Class Learning

by Karen Craven I recently met Andrew and Sara Wisdom who are First Class Learning Managers based in Kidderminster. Andrew has over 14 years teaching experience at a local secondary school and Sara is a Learning Support Assistant who works principally with children who have special educational needs. Their motto is “Children learning to succeed” and both are passionate about this.

First Class Learning Maths and English programmes have been designed by experienced Maths and English specialists to improve numeracy and literacy skills based on the UK National Curriculum and

January – February 2011

are supported by the Dyspraxia Foundation. The courses are aimed at children between 5 and 16 years but actually one student at the Kidderminster centre is 80 years of age! The programmes are constantly being developed and new centres are opening around the country.

Andrew told me “We want to encourage parents to be involved as we believe in the Triangle of Success with children, parents and tutors all working together”.

Sue Harris, Mum to Chloe says “Since starting First Class Learning a couple of months ago, Chloe’s maths has improved greatly. She is in year 5 at school but was unable to add up number bonds up to 20 without using her fingers or a ruler/number line. Chloe can now add up quickly in her

Angela Campbell, Mum to Megan says “Megan (13) has been attending FCL for 4 months. I was concerned about her progress at school and know from previous experience with my older daughter how important it is to gain a good GCSE grade in maths in order to gain a university placement. I had thought that the best route was private 1-1 tuition.

FCL is a different approach and I think a better one as 30 mins have to be spent each day completing tasks which I mark. This means that I am more involved and can assess how Megan is doing. Megan has recently been moved up a set at school for Maths which is a really good confidence boost for her and has also helped her in Science class.

I would recommend this method to other parents. Megan is enjoying it which is the main thing and never complains about going to the class every Friday!”

Contact Andrew or Sara on 01562 68039 or email Kidderminster@firstclasslearning.co.uk.

Classes are held between 3.30 – 5.30 on Friday at Townsend Works, Puxton Lane, Kidderminster, DY11 5DF. For classes in the Bromsgrove area contact Sandra on 01527 577728.

Visit www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

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Education

by Sheila Sage How many of us have played on the street, in the park, the woods or in my case by the cut (the canal) at a very young age with very little supervision? Situations like this are just unthinkable nowadays but the freedom to be private in a child-initiated environment fosters imagination and the ability to negotiate together, along with a host of other life skills.

Forest School in Worcestershire Can there be a family in Worcestershire untouched at some stage by Forest School experiences? A small child that I know well recites his days of the week as Monday, Tuesday, Forest School day, Thursday etc. and it is now one of those terms passed into family talk – even the adults call Wednesday “Forest School Day”.

It is very likely to be widely recognised how much children enjoy learning in the outdoors but perhaps, why and how this developed locally is less well known.

An excellent Forest School coordinator was appointed in 2000 and the environmental learning centre at Bishops Wood was a natural centre for developing practice in Worcestershire. A funded collaboration with Evesham College ensured that Early Years Forest School assistants and leaders were trained and qualified. Our Forest School coordinator visited many sites and supported safe, exciting areas for children to learn. Some are truly forested and some sites contain few trees but the philosophy of giving children time and space to initiate and to engage with their learning has really inspired much good quality work in Worcestershire, which has been a leading authority in the field for a number of years.

Training continues to flourish at Bishops Wood.

Those of us involved in developing Forest School in Worcestershire are proud that we have been able to give young learners a taste of the environments we enjoyed as children. But it isn’t just young children who thrive in this way. Older, often reluctant, learners have gained much pleasure and developed skills and responsibility in this way too. I would be surprised if you haven’t been ‘educated’ already by a child who has been enthused by Forest School in Worcestershire – is that so?

Sheila Sage is a retired Primary and Early Years Inspector in Worcestershire (and Forest School enthusiast).

It has always been a deep personally held belief that children’s learning in the outdoors is arguably most effective, because they recognise purpose and enjoy involvement in a more natural environment. Most adults, when challenged about a favourite experience from childhood, will recall outdoor experiences as being those most memorable and enjoyable.

Government support for Early Years education development enabled decision makers and fund holders in Worcestershire to foster good quality Forest School learning for young children in the County 11 years ago. We visited a training centre in Bridgwater, Somerset where students were being encouraged to pursue Forest School experiences and qualifications in working with young children. Most of the research and development of the philosophy came from Scandinavia where almost all young learners spend considerable time experimenting with their ideas in the outdoors, whatever the weather.

Fancy a cup of tea?

Sometimes these few words and a listening ear are all it takes to make a difference to a family.

If you have parenting experience, and you can spare a few hours a week to help a local family, find out more about becoming a home-visiting volunteer with Home-Start Worcester & Wychavon.

Call Lyn on 01905 29377, or email home-startworcs@btconnect.com.

Home-Start Worcester & Wychavon, Goodrich House, Sansome Place, Worcester. WR1 1UA

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January – February 2011

Choosing a Nursery – Childcare and Early Learning

By Robina Cowan

Childcare comes in a range of shapes and sizes, including willing relatives, nurseries, childminders, nannies and au pairs.

Apart from you of course, do nurseries offer the best childcare?

That depends on what would suit your child – and finding a good nursery. If your child would thrive on the constant stimulation of other children and adults they trust, using a wide range of toys and outdoor facilities then the answer is probably yes. Other advantages include year-round care and the experience of qualified staff, which can be particularly reassuring for first-time parents.

However, if your child is timid, doesn’t like competing for attention, prefers peace and quiet or isn’t ready for such a structured day, then don’t miss our next issue which will focus on nannies, childminders and other childcare options. For now, let’s look at nurseries.

When and where to start Nurseries with the best reputations tend to be hot property, and baby units are more scarce than places for 2-5 year-olds, so start looking well ahead of the time you’ll need a place, and join a waiting list if necessary. Some mothers start while they are still pregnant; others wait until their child is a babe in arms and they have a better idea of what they need.

If you don’t know of any local nurseries, try our advertisers they’re here because they want you to know about them.

Otherwise, the Families Information Service can supply a list of registered childcarers in your area by phone on 0800 2346 346 and online at www.direct.gov.uk/childcare.

Your child’s needs Once you’ve drawn up a shortlist of the nurseries you are considering, go and look around and ask lots of questions to see if they would suit your child. Although all nurseries follow Ofsted government guidelines, there is room for interpretation in the way that childcare and learning are delivered. For example, private nurseries might serve organic, freshly cooked meals or include additional activities such as dancing, French and outings.

Consider issues such as your child’s daily routine (nap times, type of food provided etc), staff qualifications and experience, staff to child ratios and what the staff turnover is like. Check that you are happy with the range of toys and equipment available, cleanliness of the premises, security, the policy on discipline and late collections.

Ask to see the latest Ofsted report or read it online. Find out if there are any extra charges for nappies, meals, certain activities and the cost of the deposit to go on the waiting list. Factor in the time it will take you to travel to and from the nursery, probably during rush hour. After all this, the most important thing is to absorb the atmosphere and look at whether the children are relaxed and happy, and members of staff are responsive and caring.

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HOPSCOTCH PRE-SCHOOL

Our motto is “where learning is child’s play” Childcare for children 7 2 - 5 years 8 9 Wulstan Hall, Priest Lane, Pershore. (01386) 555718.

10 www.hopscotchpreschoolpershore.co.uk

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Don’t forget to mention when you telephone that you saw these companies featured in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine

Ofsted reg: 205325

January – February 2011

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Nurseries Nurseries in a nutshell Daycare nurseries ■ A useful option for working parents, day nurseries are typically open from 8am to early evening and children can stay for all or part of the day ■ Some parents feel uneasy about leaving their baby in sole care, no matter how well-qualified that person is. It’s reassuring to know that nursery staff can safely take breaks, and that you are covered if a member of staff is off sick ■ Consistency - your child can stay in the same environment from the day you go back to work until they start school ■ Social environment - children who attend nursery find it easier to settle into school routines when they join reception classes.

The cons: Some parents feel uncomfortable because playtime, naps and meals are at more or less set times. Also you’ll need backup care when your child is unwell or if you’re late to collect.

Nursery classes in schools ■ A first step into school, although a school nursery place does not automatically guarantee a place in reception ■ Convenient if you are already dropping siblings at the school ■ Stimulation – some children are ready for school earlier than others and readily take to structured, educational play ■ Age-specific activities are geared to the school children they are becoming rather than the babies they used to be.

The cons: Sessions tend to be just three hours which is not practical for many families. Fulltime places are few and far between.

Pre-schools and playgroups ■ The Preschool Learning Alliance is one of the largest providers of quality childcare in England, offering a wide choice of settings from pre-schools and baby and toddler groups to full daycare places in nurseries and children’s centres ■ PLA settings are managed by experienced and qualified managers who lead teams of nursery workers and support staff, training them to meet children’s individual needs ■ Parents are encouraged to be active members, so you can be more involved in your child’s care ■ Small scale settings are less daunting for shy children The cons: Tend to be community operations so don’t expect glamorous premises. You may need additional care if you work fulltime although wrap around hours are available in some settings.

Private nursery schools ■ Stimulation - by two and a half most children benefit from some kind of pre-school environment. They learn without knowing it while using letters, shapes and numbers, looking at books and expressing themselves through making things, drawing and singing ■ Peer group – the opportunity to make friends of the same age ■ Might be more flexible on the availability of hours or days you need to fit in with your work schedule ■ Often smaller scale with a personal touch, and the nursery head is usually involved in the running of the school.

The cons: Some offer wrap-around care but are generally open only for school hours so you will need someone to pick up and collect if you are at work.

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January – February 2011

Nurseries Help with the costs Nursery fees vary greatly, depending on location, demand and what is offered, but can be from around £100 to over £200 a week.

1. Local authorities receive government funding so they can offer 15 hours a week of early years education to all three and four year-olds from the term after their third birthday. If you choose a nursery which costs more than the funding or need more hours, you top up the difference.

2. Child tax credits and working tax credits are available to help with childcare costs. From April 2011, the ‘child’ element of the child tax credit will be increased for families earning up to £16,190 a year with an above-inflation increase. At the same time though, families earning over £41,400 will no longer be eligible for the full tax credit.

3. Some employers offer childcare vouchers which staff can opt to receive instead of part of their salary. Parents can save up to £1000 a year by reducing their income tax and national insurance contributions.

Crowle Pre-School Crowle Pre-school is a well established pre-school in a village setting. In our recent Ofsted inspection we received Outstanding for Effectiveness with Partnerships, Engagement with Parents/Carers and Healthy Lifestyles. Our ethos is to “provide a safe, secure and stimulating environment to help nurture every individual child within the framework of the Early Years Foundation Stage”.

For more information contact Penny on 01905 381442 or email crowle.preschool@live.co.uk www.crowlepreschool.co.uk

Barnabees Nursery At Barnabees nursery we offer endless opportunities for outdoor play but the jewel in our crown is our wonderful woodland area.

We have a wealth of trees offering dappled light throughout the summer months. There is also a large pond enabling us to study frogs, newts, pond skaters and dragonflies.

For more information contact Gill or Elain on 01562 824722 or email info@Barnabeesnurseryschool.co.uk www.barnabeesnurseryschool.com

Hopscotch Pre-school Hopscotch Pre-school was established in 1994 by a group of mums from Holy Redeemer Primary School, Pershore. We offer full day care 3 days a week 9 - 2.45 and half days Monday and Thursday 9 - 12.45. During the week we offer a variety of activities including music, PE, craft, walks, visits, gardening and football. Children are supported by highly skilled staff who have enhanced CRB's and a genuine love of children. We follow the EYFS freeflow ethos where "learning is child's play".

For more information contact Vicky on 01386 555718 or email vicky@familyfaizey.com www.hopscotchpreschoolpershore.co.uk

Magic Moments Following the success of an “OUTSTANDING” Ofsted at their Kempsey Nursery, Magic Moments have opened their second setting in the centre of nearby Leigh Sinton.

Parents will find a warm, homely, and happy environment for their children to enjoy learning through play.

The Nursery is open from 8am to 6pm, fifty weeks of the year, and is conveniently located in a quiet cul-de-sac – ideal for parents in the surrounding villages, as well as Malvern, Worcester and Ledbury.

For more information contact Victoria on 01886 833323 or email magicmoments_leighsinton@yahoo.co.uk January – February 2011

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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Business women in our area If you would like to advertise in Families Hereford and Worcester please contact Karen on 0844 504 7224

Angie’s Animal Antics A Angie’s Animal Antics is a fantastic way to eexplore animals that are ssuper friendly in safe ssurroundings as they ccome to you!

They are a family run ccompany based in the Midlands and have been M out visiting since 2004. o Nearly all of the animals N aare rescue animals and hhave had homes before.

EEach animal has a story tto tell!

Visiting off allll ages iin pre-schools, Vi i i children hild h l nurseries, schools, scouts, brownies and clubs/classes, they also visit elderly people in nursing homes.

Angies Animal Antics can either be educational in visiting schools, colleges and pre-school settings or amazing fun at parties.

Have fun and learn cool facts and interact with the animals in the mobile zoo.

If you would like a visit from Angie and all the animals please call 0845 430 9281 or visit www.angiesanimalantics.co.uk.

Recommended Family Holidays Lucilla believes a “tried and tested” holiday has greater chance of being a successful holiday and captured this idea in RecommendedFamilyHolidays.com. She launched the brand new redesigned website recently.

All genuine enquiries sent to property owners are automatically entered into the quarterly prize draw when you submit an enquiry form.

The prize is a £50 voucher towards their d your nextt ffamily il hholiday lid with ith one off th i holiday cottage owners. Conditions apply including a time limit of when the voucher expires – holiday bookings must be made within 3 months of the voucher being issued and the family holiday must be taken within 1 year of the voucher date. The voucher must be used for a holiday with one of the property owners who advertise on the website at the time of booking the holiday. The voucher can only be redeemed at the time the full balance of the holiday is paid (not at the time a deposit is paid).

Why don’t you take a look www.recommendedfamilyholidays.com.

We think you’ll like it!

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www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

By Karen Craven

Ocean Eyes Katherine Neale runs her successful photography business from home and is also mum to two young children.

Katherine’s ’ career began with a BBC TV training degree at Leeds University. She then went on to work for a number of television companies as a video editor and camerawoman. She also lived abroad for a number of years working as an underwater photographer and filmmaker.

When Katherine started her family in 2005, she was looking for something that would fit in better with family life, and so Ocean Eyes Images was born.

She says “Ocean Eyes Images has enabled me to leave the long hours, overseas travel and high pressure of my previous career behind me as I am in control of when and where I work. It has allowed me to focus on bringing up my children while still working in a profession I am passionate about.”

Ocean Eyes Images originally ran as a mobile studio offering family portraits in people’s homes until 2 years ago when Katherine built a studio at her house just outside Redditch. She also offers location shoots for families at local wildlife reserves. In addition to family portraits, Ocean Eyes Images offer an esteemed wedding photography service.

For more information call Katherine on 07989 577336 or visit www.oceaneyes.co.uk.

Encore Theatre Academy At the end of its first term, ENCORE Theatre Academy at The Norbury Theatre, Droitwich Spa presented its first show “Heroes & Villains” on Monday 6th December. The show included excerpts from Peter Pan, Aladdin, Jekyll and Hyde and The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe. Thirty performers aged between 4 and 16 spent 12 weeks working on scenes, songs and dances to put together the show which also included a fight scene based on a stage combat workshop that the children had experienced earlier on in the term.

If you are interested in finding out more about ENCORE you can contact the principal Lizzie McCabe on 07787 346633 or email info@mtexperience.co.uk. www.mtexperience.co.uk.

January – February 2011

Focus on Popular Local Class Sue Thomas Start2exercise Tell us a bit about yourself I am a married mum of three children, James (8), Francesca (5) and Eliza (2). I love the feeling of well-being you get from exercise, but I also know and understand how hard it is for ladies to fit exercise in around family life. This is why 8 years ago, after James was born, I set up Start2exercise.

What is Start2exercise?

Start2exercise is a women only health and fitness company giving ladies, in and around Worcester, the flexibility to exercise whilst fitting it around a busy day to day life. The beauty is, that to be part of Start2exercise, there is no need for expensive gym memberships but you will get a focused and easy to maintain exercise agenda.

There are three areas to the business • Start2train is one to one training where ladies can exercise with the help of a trainer to their own specified goals in a private gym.

• Start2run is ladies only outdoor circuit classes taking place in locations around Worcester. It is suitable for all levels of fitness and is a cost effective way of receiving some personal training. There are four classes a week to choose from.

• Start2push is a Worcester based outdoor buggy class. It aims to help new mums get fit after having a baby without the need for childcare. There are three classes a week to choose from.

For a full class timetable go to www.start2exercise.com.

How did you get started?

I have always loved exercising and competed in triathlon before having our family. Sadly I don’t get enough time to train for races these days! After badly hurting my ankle 8 years ago, I saw a sports massage therapist who was also a personal trainer and they suggested personal training was something I might be good at. (I am a bit of a bossy boots!) I have not looked back. I love the range of work I am now involved with in helping to motivate ladies who may not have exercised otherwise.

What does the future hold for the business?

I will continue to build all elements of the business and expand it further as and when I see new gaps in the exercise market. Last January I started a third Start2push class and a second morning Start2run circuit class. I am trying to make the business as accessible as possible for as many ladies as possible.

What is the best bit about what you do?

Motivating ladies to work harder than they might otherwise have done if they were exercising on their own and seeing the buzz they get from it afterwards. It feels great to be helping make a difference to a clients feeling of health and well-being.

Any bad bits?

The rain and cold when training groups outside – but sometimes this can be invigorating and can get individuals working harder!

How do you fit work around family life?

All the Start classes and personal training take place during school hours apart from two evenings and then the children’s dad looks after them – often they don’t even notice I am gone!

What advice would you give other mums looking to work for themselves?

Whilst I love being a mum, I am not afraid to admit that sometimes the routine of cooking and nose wiping can wear you down. It’s a great feeling of liberation working for yourself, allowing you control and flexibility to work around the children’s needs and the school pick up! Working three days a week means that the time I do have with the children is precious, rewarding and full of fun (albeit pretty busy!). I do think I am a better mum because of it.

Go to www.start2exercise.com for more information on the class timetables, locations, and how you go about joining a class. If you would like to talk to Sue please contact her on 07968 292784 or sue@start2exercise.com.

January – February 2011

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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

THEATRE Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1AX 01527 577330, www.artrix.co.uk Live Events: Nursing Lives A full-mask theatre production with music, song and dance about true stories of nurses at the Worcester Royal Infirmary in the second World War. Thurs 13 Jan 8.00 pm £12.00 (£10.00) The Science Museum Live on Tour Experience spectacular science, dangerous demonstrations and extraordinary experiments with London’s world-famous Science Museum. Mon 21 Feb 7.00 pm £12.50 How the Koala learnt to hug Join Steven and a host of wild characters including Natascha The Witch, Karen the Koala and the Reggae Beavers for some great stories, sing along songs, superb games and first class hugging. Wed 23 Feb 2.30 pm £7.50 (£28.00 family)

Jack and the Beanstalk (Phoenix Theatre) Jack and the Beanstalk promises to raise the roof with bucket loads of laughter & GIANT opportunities for audience participation. Wed 19th – Sat 22nd Jan 7.30 pm plus 2.30 pm on Sat 22nd and Sun 23rd Jan £10.00 Show me the talent Ten acts compete for the approval of judges and the audience. Talented local acts, spectacular lighting & stage effects and guest band Fighting Shadows performing their new single. Supported by Evesham Arts Centre - all proceeds to Help for Heroes.

Sat 29 Jan 7.30 pm £5.00 The W Factor Finalists in Short Film, Visual Arts, Dance, Drama, Music, Singing & Circus perform for a live audience & judge’s panel - hoping to be crowned W Factor Winner 2011.

Competition is open to 11-18 year olds living in Wychavon. To audition in January contact Kerry Bignell 01386 565497 or email kerry.bignell@wychavon.gov.uk.

Mon 14th Feb 7.30 pm Tickets £4.00 (£5.00) from Almonry Heritage Centre, Abbey Gate, Evesham Tel 01386 446944

Visit www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk for more things to do and places to see in the Hereford and Worcester area

Andy and Mike’s big box of bananas CBeebies presenter Andy Day and Mike James bring their much-loved humour to this slapstick comedy show for 4-11-year-olds (and their entire families). Thurs 24 Feb 2.00 pm £9.50 (£8.50)

Evesham Arts Centre Theatre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4QH 01386 48883, www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk

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www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Malvern Theatres, Grange Road, Malvern, Worcs, WR14 3HB 01684 892277, www.malvern-theatres.co.uk Alice in Wonderland (Malvern Theatre Players) A terrific postChristmas treat for the whole family. Fri 14th, Sat 15th, Wed 19th, Thurs 20th, Fri 21st, Sat 22nd Jan 7.00 pm. Sat 15th, Sun 16th, Sat 22nd, Sun 23rd 2.30 pm £12.00 (under 16s £6.00) Jack A puppet theatre production about Jack and the Beanstalk. Sat 22nd Jan 11.00 am and 2.00 pm £6.00 4+yrs Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Andrew Lloyd Webber’s award winning show. Tues 25th – Sat 29th Jan 7.30 pm, Wed 26th, Thurs 27th and Sat 29th Jan 2.30 pm, Sun 30th Jan 1.00 pm and 5.00 pm £28-£20 (under 16s £10.50 on wed and thurs) The Chinese State Circus Mon 21st and Tues 22nd Feb 8.00 pm and Tues 22nd Feb 5.00 pm £28.00-£13.00 (under 16s £5.00 off) The Emperor and the Nightingale An adventure in a faraway land. A thoroughly interactive experience for the whole family.

Sat 26th Feb 11.00 am and 2.00 pm £6.00 5+yrs Norbury Theatre, Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, Worcs, WR9 8ED 01905 770154, www.norburytheatre.freeserve.co.uk Aladdin (The Norbury Players) A traditional family pantomime Thurs 6th – Sat 8th Jan, Thurs 13th – Sat 15th Jan, Thurs 20th – Sat 22nd Jan 7.30 pm and Sat matinees 2.30 pm, Sun 23rd Jan 4.00 pm £10.00 (£8.00)

Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org.uk Word Up The Live Final The four month search to find Worcestershire’s first Young Poet Laureate will end here on stage at Number 8. Poem entries from young people will be performed live in front of a panel of judges and the audiences, and the winner will be presented with their title.

Fri 28th Jan 7.30 pm £5.00 Alice in Wonderland With puppetry, song and dance, the Oxfordshire Theatre Company presents this much loved adventure inspired by the Lewis Carroll novel.

Mon 21st Feb 3.00 pm £7.00 (under 16s £5.00) The Vackees The Vackees is a musical telling the moving story of children evacuated at the outbreak of World War II. Kip and his friends leave their families in London and experience a different life in a Somerset village, hostility from the locals, both adults and children, new close friendships and unexpected first hand encounters with the war.

Fri 25th Feb 7.30 pm, Sat 26th Feb 2.30 pm and 7.30 pm £10.00 (under 16s £5.00) Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, Worcs, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Why the Lion danced (Yellow Earth Theatre Company) The story behind The Lion Dance is brought to you with all the excitement, colour and sounds of the Chinese Spring Festival by Yellow Earth, the UK’s award winning British East Asian Theatre Company. After the show join the performers on stage in celebrating Chinese New Year.

Learn some Lion Dance steps and help scare away the monster!

Tues 15th Feb 1.00 pm £5.00

January – February 2011

What’s On Chris and Pui Road Show 2011 CBeebies’ favourite double-act Chris and Pui are coming to town.

Wed 23rd Feb 11.00 and 2.00 pm £11.00 - £7.00. Eve All seats £14.00 Swan Theatre The, The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED 01905 611427, www.worcesterlive.co.uk Balloons for sale Mrs. Rose’s and Puffing Billy’s attempts at blowing up balloons for the fair are thwarted by the Big Orange Balloon Eater, but what makes the Man in the Moon come to the rescue?

Sat 5th Feb 10.30 am £1.50

MUSEUMS Almonry Heritage Centre, Abbey Gate, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4BG 01386 446944, www.almonryevesham.org Open Mon to Sat 10.00am – 5.00pm Tickets: £3.00 adults, under 11s Free, concessions £2.00 Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, Worcs, B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Sat and Sun 10.30 am – 4.00 pm Tickets: £5.50 adults, £2.50 child (under 5s free), Family ticket £14.30 Back to the Future In partnership with the Artrix, Bromsgrove, take part in Back to the Future themed drama and craft workshops during the day then watch the classic film Back to the Future in Guesten Hall.

Sun 30 Jan £9.00 Child, £8.00 Adults, Museum Members £6.00 Child £5.00.

The Commandery, 109 Sidbury, Worcester, WR1 2HU 01905 361821, www.worcestercity museums.org.uk Open Mon – Sat 10am – 5pm, Sun 1.30pm – 5pm, Cost: £5.40 adults, £2.30 5-16 yrs, under 5’s FREE, £4.10 concessions, Family ticket £12.50 Wicked Worcester A fascinating exhibition exploring death, destruction and disease in Worcester through the ages. Find out about bad King John, one of the most disliked monarchs in history, who is buried in Worcester Cathedral.

Explore the myths and superstitions surrounding Oliver Cromwell’s pact with the devil. Uncover some of the cruel and unusual punishments used throughout Worcester’s history and discover how the plaque affected the city in 1637.

January – February 2011

Love Songs If music be the food of love, play on! From music in Shakespeare’s time to romance at Littlebury’s print works, explore the sounds of love in this miniexhibition. Sat 12th Feb onwards Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum, Foregate Street, Worcester, WR1 1DT 01905 25371, www.worcestercity museums.org.uk Museum: Open Tues – Sat 10.30 am – 4.30 pm, Cost: FREE. Cafe, Shop and Art Gallery also open on Mondays.

Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 7XZ 01299 250416, www.worcestershire.gov.uk/ museum Open Tues – Fri 10am – 5pm, Weekends and Bank Holiday Mondays 11am – 5pm Cost: £4.50 adults, £2.25 concessions, £12 family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) Hartlebury Helpers Club meets every other Saturday morning in term time – Museum Saturday Club for 7-11 year olds. Contact Sue Pope on 01299 250416 for more information.

Broadway Tower, Broadway Tower, Fish Hill, Broadway, WR12 7LB Tel: 01386 852390, www.broadwaytower.co.uk Open weekends 10.30 am - 5.00 pm Cost: £4.50 adult, £2.50 child (4-14) and Family ticket £12.00, concession £4.00 Evesham Country Park, Norton and Lenchwick, Evesham, WR11 4TP Tel: 01386 761888 Garden Centre, Tel: 01386 443348 The Ark Animal Sanctuary, Tel: 01386 422282 Evesham Vale Light Railway. www.eveshamcountrypark.co.uk Open Mon - Sat 9.00 am - 5.30 pm, Sun 10.30 am – 4.30 pm Cost: FREE entry to Garden Centre, charges for Animal Sanctuary and Railway Kingsford Forest Park, Wolverley, Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 5SL 01562 710025, www.worcestershire.gov.uk Open daily 8.00 am – 5.00 pm FREE

Lickey Hills Country Park and Sculpture Trail, Warren Lane, Rednal, Birmingham, B45 8ER 0121 447 7106, www.birmingham.gov.uk/ lickeyhills Open 10.00 am-4.20 pm FREE Worcester Woods Country Park and Orchard Cafe, Spetchley Road, Worcester, WR5 2LG 01905 766493, www.worcestershire.gov.uk Open 9.00 am – 5.00 pm FREE Wyre Forest Visitor and Discovery Centre, Callow Hill, Bewdley, Worcs, DY14 9XQ 01299 266929, www.wyreforest.co.uk Open 10 am – 4.00 pm FREE

ATTRACTIONS Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, Burford, Oxfordshire, OX18 4JP Tel: 01993 823006, www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Open every day apart from Christmas Day from 10.00 am Cost: £11.50 adults, £8.00 children, under 3s free

From Ration Books to Rolling Stones Rock and Roll yourself back to the iconic ‘50s and ‘60s to explore two decades of great social change. A nostalgic exhibition that illustrates a changing world through the experience of childhood, the home, cultural icons and fashions.

Fantastic Festivals – Holiday Activities Family activities celebrate the worldwide festivals and special celebration days of February. Tues 22 – Fri 25 Feb 10.30 am-4.30 pm

COUNTRY PARKS Arrow Valley Countryside Centre, Battens Drive, South Moons Moat, Redditch, Worcs, B98 0LJ 01527 464000, www.redditch.whub.org.uk go to Leisure and Culture and click on Arrow Valley Park Open Mon – Sun 10.00 am – 4.30 pm

Don’t forget to say you saw the event listed in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine when you call!

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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What’s On Dick Whittington Farm Park, Little London, Longhope, Glos, GL17 0PH Tel: 01452 831000, www.dickwhittington.org Weekends and school holidays 10.00am – 5.00pm, Cost: £6.00 children over 3 and adults, active under threes £5.00, babies free, family ticket £20.00 School term 10.30 – 2.30 closed tues(£4 concession price) National Sea Life Centre,The Water’s Edge, Brindley Place, Birmingham, B1 2HL Tel: 0871 423 2110, www.sealife.co.uk Open every day mon – Fri 10.00 am – 5.00 pm and weekends 10.00 am – 6.00 pm. Cost: Prices differ so the advice is book on-line before you go.

Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum, Millenium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham, B4 7XG Tel: 0121 202 2222, www.thinktank.ac Weekdays 10.00 am – 4.00 pm, weekends 10.00 am – 5.00 pm apart from Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day Cost: £11.75 adults, £7.95 children, £36.80 family ticket The Big Bang Show Demonstration packed family science show.

Date: Weekends and selected school holidays, Jan - April 2011 Time: 2.15pm Robot Rebuild – Storytelling Interactive storytelling session for young children and their parents.

Date: Weekends and selected school holidays, Jan - April 2011 Time: 12 noon Age group: Under 8s & parents Animation workshop Modelling workshop that brings inanimate objects to life through the science of stop frame animation.

Date: Weekends and selected school holidays, Jan - April 2011 Time: 12.45pm Wallace and Gromit Invention Sessions Inspired by Wallace’s love of inventing, this workshop will encourage and inspire the secret inventor inside all of you, using kits developed by the BBC. Date: Weekends and selected school holidays, Jan - April 2011 Age group: Over 8s

If you would like to feature in the What’s On Section, please email events@ herefordandworcs.co.uk

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EVENTS NCT – National Childbirth Trust 0300 3300770 www.nctpregnancyand babycare.com NEARLY NEW SALES Worcester NCT Sun 20th Feb 10.30 am – 12.00 pm at Perdiswell Sports Centre, Bilford Road, Worcester, WR5 8DX Tel: Stacey on 0844 243 6334 (ext 2) or email nearlynewsale@yahoo.co.uk Kidderminster NCT Sat 5th Feb 11.30 am - 1.00 pm at Stourport High School, Minster Road, Stourport on Severn, DY13 8AX Tel: 0844 243 6178 or email kidderminsternct@hotmail.co.uk Malvern Hills NCT Sun 6th Feb 1.15 pm – 3.00 pm at John Masefield School, Mabel’s Furlong, Ledbury. Tel: 0844 243 6201 or email nns.malvern@nct.org.uk

National Trust 0844 800 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Berrington Hall, nr Leominster, HR6 0DW Tel: 01568 615721 Bird Box Making Children can get creative making their bird boxes under the watchful eye of our National Trust Rangers. Booking is advisable, £3.50 per box. Normal admission charges apply.

21 February 12.00 – 3.00 pm

Winter Nature Quest Get out into the Park with the family and discover nature at Croome with our self guided family trail for the winter weekends. Normal admission charges apply, £1.50 per person to participate in trail.

1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30 January; 5, 6, 12 & 13 February 10 am to 3.30 pm Hanbury Hall, School Road, Hanbury, Droitwich, WR9 7EA Tel: 01527 821214 Nature Detectives – ‘Feathered Friends’ This weekend you can make a bird feeder to take home with you, and you can become a Nature Detective by going bird spotting in the park. Feel free to bring your own binoculars so you can go bird spotting in the garden.

Normal admission charges apply, there will be a small additional charge for the trail and the activities to cover the cost of materials. 26 & 27 February 11.00 am to 4.30 pm Family Activity Days - ‘Wonderful Winter’ Enjoy a trail around the garden and ‘make and take’ activities. Normal admission charges apply, there will be a small additional charge for the trail and the

activities to cover the cost of materials. 22 & 24 February 11.00 am to 4.30 pm Park Walks Go on a guided walk around the park and discover more about the history and its restoration. 9, 16, 23 & 30 January; 6 & 13 February 11.15 am to 1.00 pm The Greyfriars, Friar Street, Worcester, WR1 2LZ Tel: 01905 23571 Make Do and Mend A day of crafts using materials from around the house. Part of the Love Worcester events happening around the city throughout half-term. Adults £4.80, children £2.40, families £12.

24 February, 1pm to 5pm.

The Weir, Swainshill, Hereford, HR4 7QF Tel: 01981 590509 Make a Nestbox Make a nestbox for your garden using natural materials. Fun for all the family, working with NT rangers. Normal admission charges apply, £3.50 per child to participate. 24 February, 1am to 4pm

Croft Castle, Yarpole, nr Leominster, HR6 9PW Tel: 01568 780246 Make a Nestbox Make a nestbox for your garden with the children.

Use natural materials and work alongside NT rangers for the afternoon. Fun for the family in February half term. Normal admission charges apply, £3.50 per box. 23 February, 11am to 4pm Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW Tel: 01905 371006 Winter Weekends at Croome Discover the beauty and space of Croome over the January and February weekends. Take a stroll along the frosty paths through the winding shrubberies to the evocative temples, follies and lake. Step inside the house, Croome Court, to warm up and explore the ground floor and basement at your leisure. There’s also the Winter Nature Quest trail to entertain the family and the house will be open 11am - 4pm (last entry 3:30pm). Normal admission charges apply, cost of trail £1.50 per child.

1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30, January; 5, 6, 12 & 13 February 10.00 am to 3.45 pm

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

January – February 2011