Families Solent West Magazine September/ October issue 48.

Issue 48: September/ October 2015

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SOLENT WEST

In this issue

A parents guide to independent schools First day nerves (yours and theirs) School open days

Plus Halloween events & What’s on

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us Local information and events for parents with 0 - 12 year olds in Hampshire

September/ October 2015

In this issue....

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News & views Prep schools Education feature -Moyles Court School School open day directory First day nerves: yours and theirs Back to school reading tips Clubs & classes Clubs & classes directory - Autumn 2015 Halloween half term events What’s on in September & October

® Solent West Magazine 07789 882467/ 07554 880140 l editor@familiessolentwest.co.uk www.familiessolentwest.co.uk Editors: Rebecca Carr & Heather Bainbridge Advertising: Claire Clarricoates ads@familiessolentwest.co.uk Next issue: November/ December 2015 Booking deadline: 2 October 2015 40,000 readers per issue. Printed by Bishops © Families Solent West 2015

Disclaimer: Families Solent West Magazine is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Solent West Magazine are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

PLEASE EXCUSE THE UNUSUAL APPROACH! A successful international company, operating in the Health and Nutrition Industry, is looking for openminded, positive people to work part-time or full-time, from home, without compromising your current career or commitments. If you work in the Health and Fitness Industry, or have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or feel you would like a balanced and flexible lifestyle then we would like to hear from you.

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News & views

Pharmaton help with exhaustion and tiredness

News & views

We all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy day at work or with the kids and coping with everything can be an everyday battle.

Did you know that taking Pharmaton Vitality Capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks?

Wear A Hat Day 2016 – get your thinking caps on The UK’s premier brain tumour awareness event will be back on Thursday 24th March 2016. For many, Brain Tumour Research is a cause close to your hearts and they continue to be humbled by your commitment to helping find a cure for this devastating disease. Your collective participation in Wear A Hat Day is a wonderful contribution to the overall success of the annual campaign and an inspiration to all at Brain Tumour Research.

It would be #hattastic if you can take part again in 2016. Register online now by visiting www.wearahatday.org and they will get your fantastic fundraising pack to you by February.

Pharmaton Vitality Capsules is packed with the unique Ginseng G115, vitamins and minerals to help relieve temporary periods of fatigue and restore vitality. It is clinically proven to enhance mental and physical performance. Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials. Try Pharmaton Vitality Capsules, and never give up.

(Licensed medicine) For temporary periods of fatigue. Always read the label.

The Play Cafe at Academy Studios is now open Academy Studios in Romsey have expanded their wonderful coffee shop and added a purpose built area for 0-5 year olds. The perfect place to meet and enjoy a coffee and lunch. Relax on one of the comfy sofas and watch your child, as they explore the mini climbing wall, transform into Cinderella or Captain Hook using the dressing up clothes and create their own adventures using the princess and pirate climbing frame and selection of ride-on toys.

The new and exciting timetable ensures that there is something on every day for you and your child to enjoy. From toddler dance to singing and story time, there is something for everyone. The Play Cafe is open Monday - Saturday from 9am-5pm and Sunday 10am4pm.

For more information call 01794 515129 or visit www.academy-studios.com

Presents

‘The Excellence’ Day Nursery for children from birth to 5 years The Excellence 1 and 2 Wade Park Farm Salisbury Road, Ower, Hants, SO51 6AG Our ‘brand new’ day nursery at Ower is located directly opposite Paulton’s Park main Entrance. Based at Wade Park Farm, the nursery is set in beautiful New Forest countryside and the buildings are fabulous barn conversions. The facility has an abundance of space and incorporates natural light throughout.

For more information contact Future Path Childcare Tel: 02380 814400 Email: sam@fpchildcare.co.uk

www.fpchildcare.co.uk/ower September/ October 2015

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News & views

News & views Obesity is now a problem at a younger age Obesity has long been seen as a problem in the UK but the age at which health professionals are seeing obese children is getting younger, according to a study. Researchers at University College, London, examined data from 56,000 people born between 1946 and 2001. They found that obesity has become much more common and is starting earlier in life.

Because obesity is often carried on into adult life, these children are at risk of severe health problems in future and cost the NHS over £5 billion per year. The study showed that while 23% of six to 10 year olds were overweight in 1994, the figure now stands at 30%.

Eustace De Sousa, spokesperson for Public Health England, said: “Almost one in 10 children in Reception are obese - but what’s even more shocking is that by the time they leave primary school, this doubles to nearly one in five.

Chaos over childcare support - parents left in the dark over new rules Changes in child support has led to confusion among parents. The system previously allowed working parents to pay childminders with vouchers worth up to £243 per month. From this autumn, the scheme will change. Families can claim a ‘top-up’ payment of 20p for each £1 they spend on childcare. Single parents earning below £150,000 or couples earning less than £300,000 can claim. Families with one parent who stays at home are not eligible. With parents having to work out the rules themselves, some may slip through the loop. The voucher system will remain but the Government has not confirmed if families will have to re-apply.

Capturing precious momentoes Capture your loved ones’ hand, foot, paw, hoof, finger, special kiss or a name. Using an easy to use mess free Inkless Print Kit to capture a print and turn it into a silver keepsake, memento stamp or personalised artwork. Each piece is as unique as the print on it. It’s not just for newborns but new at heart too!

Visit www.tinytoesmementoes.co.uk or call Karen on 07905111330 for more details. For a 10% discount quote FSWM10

Could you become a foster carer?

Southampton City Council urgently need more foster carers to provide a stable, nurturing home for vulnerable children and young people in Southampton and the surrounding area. People from all walks of life, ethnic groups and varying backgrounds can become a foster carer. You can be a single male or female, a couple in a same sex relationship, married, divorced or separated – it really doesn’t matter as long as you can provide a spare room and a safe, stable and caring home.

Fostering is a rewarding experience whereby you can positively help shape a young person’s future. To find out more please contact Southampton City Council on 0800 519 1818 or e-mail: fostering.services@southampton.gov.uk

Easy2name solve all your labeling problems With waterproof stickers for labeling shoes, lunchboxes and stationery and a choice of clothing labels, including No iron/ No sew Stick-Easy clothing labels and the EasyTag system which allows clothes to be labeled quickly and easily with re-usable tags. Use Code FAMSW10 on the website www.easy2name.com to get 10% off your order

Would you like to do something interesting and rewarding while the kids are at school?

Have you considered running your own business, being your own boss, so you can work around your family commitments?

It might sound good but we all know starting a business is not easy, so could buying a franchise be the answer? According to the British Franchise Association almost 80% of franchisees believe the added security of a franchised business actually gives them a competitive advantage.

A popular area for franchising is the pre-school market where MAD Academy has been delivering high quality music and movement classes for over ten years now but not yet in the Solent West area. Maybe this is your opportunity. To request more information visit www.madacademy.com and don’t forget to mention Families Solent West Magazine.

Have you considered fostering or adoption? southampton.gov.uk/adoption southampton.gov.uk/fostering 0800 5 18 18 18 4

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News & views

Pony riding tuition available at Pony Magic Pony Magic has a team of adorable Shetland ponies to give children (age 2 +) a safe and gentle introduction to riding.

Weekly pony riding tuition and countryside walks are offered at Bursledon in Hampshire (indoor arena also available). The 20-minute riding sessions are designed to be fun for younger children, helping to gain confidence in a safe environment without pressure. Their Shetland ponies are very appealing to small children and the session can consist of a countryside walk or a more structured lead rein lesson in the arena. Riding hats are provided. They also have a simple progress scheme which is very popular. During the 20-minute session children learn new things each week and collect stickers to earn rosettes and certificates. Book today for a 20-minute trial session for just ÂŁ10.

Their ponies are also available to hire for many types of event, school fetes, country shows, community and charity events as well as visits to rest homes, weddings, pantomimes and TV work.

For the pony mad child why not invite our gorgeous ponies along for a really special pony party with the chance to ride and make friends with the ponies in your own back garden!

For further information including booking information please take a few moments to look around the website www.ponymagic.co.uk or scan the barcode.

To feature your business with us on these pages email us heather@familiessolentwest.co.uk

September/ October 2015

New day nursery and preschool opens in Romsey Silver Stars Nursery and Pre-school is a brand new bespoke nursery offering fun and exciting activities for children. Helping to expand and enhance their imaginations and become confident individuals by combining the structured learning of the EYFS, alongside the wonderful world of dance, music, creative arts, crafts and role play.

Children are encouraged to explore the outdoors with regular woodland nature walks, cooking in the messy mud kitchen and helping to grow salad, fruit and vegetables which they can harvest and enjoy at snack time.

The nursery is open Monday – Friday from 8pm to 6pm and welcomes children from 6 months - 5 years. For more information call 01794 515129 or visit www.silverstarsnursery.com

For children aged 6 months - 5 years Open 8am - 6pm 2 year-old funding available Nursery vouchers accepted

Day Nursery Now Open Academy Studios, Romsey Ind Estate, Greatbridge Road, Romsey. SO51 0HR

01794 515129 | silverstarsnursery.com

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Education

A parents guide to independent schools

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

A variety of Independent schools An independent school is a school that is free to operate outside of many of the rules and regulations of the state system (there are, of course, statutory education, health and safety standards).

Independent schools are also fee-paying, and governed by an elected board.

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

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

Why choose an independent school?

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

Their better working conditions, with more resources and higher salaries, mean that independent schools can attract the best teachers. There is also a higher staff to pupil ratio, on average about 1:10 (it’s around 1:20 at state primaries), giving staff and pupils more time to get to know one another.

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

It’s not just the academic kids who will benefit from what a prep school offers. Sport is taken very seriously, and they will offer a wide range, from rugby to badminton. They also cater for other interests, offering a variety of extra-curricular activities, such as dance, drama and music, which might not be able to access in the state system.

How to find a school Your first port of call should be the government’s database of all UK schools, which allows you to search by area and type (private or state funded). You might want to look at this early on - according to the Good Schools Guide, getting a place can be cutthroat: Expect an interview, even for early years places – this is likely to involve some sort of assessment of basic speech, interaction and social skills. By age 7 or 8 you might expect a test of Maths and English ability, with possibly an IQ test. This could be accompanied by a school visit to assess how your child will be placed at the school.

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

Take a look at our School Open day directory on page 8 for details of local independent school open days or visit our website for a list of prep schools in the area.

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Education

Forest teaching space becomes reality for Moyles Court School Moyles Court School - in the New Forest outside Ringwood - has been successfully operating the ‘Forest School Programme’ for its key stage 2 pupils for 2 years and the school is set to become a permanent base for the expansion of the programme to include other year groups.

Forest Teaching is a long-term sustainable approach to outdoor learning building selfesteem and independence in children and young people through the exploration of and experiences in the natural world.

A small piece of woodland, a remnant of the historical Moyles Court Estate, is to be the site. Currently overgrown with laurel, native woodland plants have been stifled and the development of the Forest School Programme represents an opportunity to restore the woodland and bring it back in to use to the benefit of the school and the natural habitat.

The siting and design of the proposed structure for Forest Teaching reflects the concept of Forest Schools and is an opportunity not to be in the style of a traditional classroom. Working in conjunction with the Schools Forest Teaching Programme leader, architects

have prepared outline proposals for a structure, which will act as a focal point for activities.

Finally because of the accessible position that Moyles Court occupies it is envisaged that the Forest Teaching Space could be made available for use by other local groups providing education about the natural environment of the New Forest such as the National Park Authority, Forestry Commission and other local schools and youth groups.

Moyles Court School is a co-educational, independent day and boarding school located near Ringwood providing top quality nursery, junior, senior, day and boarding experiences. The school is ideally placed for families in Hampshire, Dorset and south Wiltshire, located in 14 stunning acres of grounds in the New Forest National Park.

For more information please visit their website www.moylescourt.co.uk or book a visit to one of their open days. See page 8 for details.

We offer more than you could ever imagine Continuous education from 2 1⁄2 -16 years www.moylescourt.co.uk/join-us Telephone: 01425 472 856

September/ October 2015

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AUTUMN SCHOOL OPEN DAYS Kings Copse Primary School Monday 16th Novmber, 9.30am Kings Copse Rd, Hedge End, Southampton, Hampshire, SO30 0PQ 01489 785040 Rownhams St Johns CofE Primary School Wednesday 4th November.

Bakers Drove, Rownhams, Southampton, SO16 8AD 02380 73 6417

St.Winifred’s School Tuesday 6th October, 9.30 - 12 noon.

17-19 Winn Road Southampton SO17 1EJ Tel: 023 8055 7352 Are you looking for a Pre-School or Primary School that offers an individualised education for your son or daughter?

St. Winifred’s School in Winn Road, Southampton offers a bespoke educational experience for children aged 3-11. Specialist teachers, small classes and a structured academic programme enable children to achieve their potential in a family-orientated environment, where manners matter and expectations are high. Come and see for yourself how a St. Winifred’s education could benefit your child.

Awbridge Primary School Monday 19th October Danes Road, Awbridge, Romsey, SO51 0HL 01794 340407 Bishops Waltham Infant School Open morning 25th September from 9.30am Oak Road, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1EP 01489 892375 Hythe Primary School Year R open day Wednesday 7th October, 9am.

School Road, Hythe, Southampton, SO45 6BL 02380 843206

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Shakespeare Infant School Tuesday 29th September 29th, 10.15am Tuesday 13th October, 1.30pm Shakespeare Road, Eastleigh, SO50 4FZ 02380 573888 Sparsholt Primary School Private tours available on request Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 2NR 01962 776264 St Anne’s Catholic School Yr6 Open Evening Tuesday 29th September 6pm - 8pm Carlton Road, Southampton, SO15 2WZ 02380 328200 St Francis CE Primary School You can call the school to arrange a convenient time to visit.

Pilgrims Close, Chandlers Ford, SO53 4ST 02380 271178 The Mountbatten School Open morning 17th and 22nd September Whitenap Lane Romsey Hampshire SO51 5SY Tel: 01794 502502 The Romsey School Open evening 30th September Greatbridge, Romsey, Hampshire SO51 8ZB Tel: 01794 512334 Walhampton School Friday 9th October Walhampton School, Lymington, SO41 5ZG Tel: 01590 613300 Wellow Primary School Tuesday 20th October & 3rd November Romsey Rd, West Wellow, SO51 6BG Tel: 01794 322201

Moyles Court School Saturday 3rd October 10am - 12.30pm Thursday 8th October 10am - 12.30pm Taster day Thursday 8th October Tel: 01425 472 856 Moyles Court School in the New Forest near Ringwood caught public attention this year with its new slashed fee structure and clear messages on its strong individualised learning, wrap around care service and new flexible transport arrangements.

Moyles Court offers continuous education from 2 ½ to 16 years and individualised learning begins in the nursery and preschool. Using dedicated early learning software and modern technology, Moyles Court creates a personal learning and play diary for the younger children, to share with the child’s parents; a service valued by parents, with its success reflected in an Inspection Report late 2012 “Children in the EYFS exceed the Early Learning Goals by the end of Reception” Moyles Court has an open morning on Saturday 3rd and Thursday 8th October; from 10am – 12.30pm. Thursday 8th October will also be a taster day for children to fully experience life at Moyles Court School. For more information and to book a visit please call the school on 01425 472 856 To include your school in our next issue call 07554 880140 or email us heather@familiessolentwest.co.uk www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

Back to school

How to cope with first day nerves (yours and theirs)

by Liat Hughes Joshi

You’ve bought the uniform, sewn on the nametapes and packed their book bag. Now the big first day is almost upon you, reduce the chances of tears at the classroom door with our starting school tips.

Ease them into a ‘school routine If you’ve been enjoying the summer holidays with later nights and relaxed, lazy mornings, head towards the sort of getting up and bedtimes needed for school in advance of day one. It’ll be less of a shock than a sudden change.

Highlight the positives of school life Read stories about school together - try Lauren Child or Janet and Allan Ahlberg’s lovely books on the subject. Or recount tales of your own positive experiences (skip the anecdotes about the super-scary teacher and inedible lunches). Remind them, too, of the things they enjoyed at any settling-in visits, such as ‘ooh, you’ll be able to play with the dressing up box again!’

Pre-empt worries Your child could be anxious about classroom life but unable to articulate their concerns. Ask them how they’re feeling about it and listen out for anything that you can help explain. It could be, what to do if they need the loo during lessons, where

you’ll be at picking up time or what happens if they don’t like lunch. Tell them that it’s absolutely fine to talk to the teacher if they’re scared or sad.

Check out the school run in advance A parent getting flustered because they’ve spent ten minutes trying to find parking or the right entrance to the building will not contribute to the calm first day vibe we’re after here.

Keep farewells short but sweet A quick hug will often be more reassuring than a ten minute parting ritual which makes it all seem a bigger deal than just a few hours apart. Avoid saying that you’ll miss your child too - it puts the idea in their head that they should miss you. If your little one is especially nervous, it can work well to give them a kiss on their hand to ‘keep’ in their pocket during the day.

Skip the mascara but remember a tissue It’s not just the children who can end up in tears - it’s normal for parents to feel emotional when they first send their reception child through those school gates.

If you think you’re about to cry, do try and hold off until you’re out of sight of your child if possible. Most four-year-olds will be more likely to get upset if they see mum sobbing

– they probably won’t understand that it’s because you’re proud/ taken aback by how grown-up they suddenly look.

But rest assured, if tears should roll, be it yours or your child’s, you won’t be the only ones and we promise no-one will remember in years to come.

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘‎How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

We offer more than you could ever imagine Continuous education from 2 1⁄2 -16 years www.moylescourt.co.uk/join-us Telephone: 01425 472 856

September/ October 2015

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Back to school

Back to school reading tips from Reading Chest

Book Reviews

The best new books for you and your children

By Justine Crow Babies & Toddler Ten Little Dinosaurs by Mike Brownlow & Simon Rickerty Orchard £11.99 This is bright, noisy and very silly. And when it comes to your little monsters, you can’t go wrong with dinosaurs, eh?

Reception - 6 years My Beastly Activity Book by Victor Escandell Thames & Hudson £9.95 More than just a colouring book, this sketchbook complete with elastic page-marker and tonguein-T-Rex-cheek style feeds the imagination.

When children get back to school in September the gap in reading abilities within a class can be at its widest. This is due to the fact that whilst some children read book after book happily all summer long, others may not have read a thing. If your child falls into the latter category, then it is more important than ever to get off to a good reading start.

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Get into a good routine and read as often as you can with your children. This might sound obvious, but once a routine is established, then reluctant readers are much less likely to protest. Reading for 10 minutes every day after breakfast will become just as normal as brushing teeth.

Keep reading a positive experience. Use lots of praise and if necessary reward incentives. Don’t make the idea of reading a chore or a punishment.

Don’t push children up reading levels too quickly just to keep up with peers. Children will gain confidence and are more likely to enjoy reading when they don’t have to struggle on too many words.

Don’t force children to read a book page by page if they don’t like it or if it is too difficult. Help them out by sharing the reading. Don’t be afraid to put a book aside completely and let them choose another.

Read a play and act it out together. Lots of school approved reading series now include plays such as ‘The Porridge Pincher’ (Collins Big Cat – lime band), ‘Doctor, Doctor!’ (Bug Club – purple band).

Be a reading role model. Research shows that the impact of parents reading has a huge positive impact on children’s reading. Children fall into reading habits based on what goes on in their home. If they never see their parents reading, they are much less likely to pick up a book themselves.

6 - 8 years Travels of an Ordinary Hamster by Astrid Desbordes & Pauline Martin Gecko Press £7.99 Part chapter book, part illustrated novel, Hamster has to get from A to B. It isn’t as easy as it looks.

9 years + Demolition Dad by Phil Earle Orion £6.99 Our pint-sized protagonist’s Pop knocks things down on purpose - but as George Biggs says: life isn’t about how you get knocked down, it’s how you get back up again.

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, and is a qualified swimming teacher. And in what little spare time she has, she also runs gastronomic writing retreat courses in France and is the food critic of The Transmitter.

For more reading advice and access to a wide range of reading books visit www.readingchest.co.uk

24 Oct - 1 NOv 2015 A week of book events for children!

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Clubs, classes and activities Too much too soon? Are we pushing our kids too far by- signing them up to lots of clubs and classes or offering valuable advantages?

Kids need to have plenty going on to stop getting bored and parents are aware of the value of after-school clubs to ensure their children are stimulated. But with a vast range on offer, it can be tempting to sign them up for a different activity every evening. There is no doubt a couple of well-chosen activities can be great for areas that the school cannot cover.

What age is best to start classes?

school. It builds confidence.

What do clubs and classes offer your child?

• •

Senior school: It’s easier to add activities as energy and independence increases.

What type of classes to choose?

Mini Mozart? Even for musical geniuses, from seven years, a 30 minute class is plenty, with ten minutes of daily practice.

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Early years: They get very tired so keep outside activities to a minimum. A good run a in the park lets off steam. An art, singingkeor a c oFitness Fanatic - Sports and dance are py baby ballet-type class with the emphasis great for fitness and flexibility though for on play is great. younger kids, avoid classes that are too aggressive or pressurised.

Infant school: Add a low-key activity; singing, music, dancing, sports and swimming are great.

Mastermind - If one subject is a struggle, one-to-one tuition can pay dividends.

Junior school: As tests loom, add an educational class if your child is struggling with one subject.

Mini Thespian - Kids thrive in acting and singing classes and may go on to theatre

Does Your Child

Love to Dance?

Classes for Children: - Ballroom & Latin - Musical Theatre - Freestyle - Street/Hip Hop

facebook.com/dmdance

Cla clu sses act bs & ivi tie s

ge: From A 14yrs 3yrs to

See our local clubs & classes directory on page 12 and on

• • • •

Mixing with children from other areas will widen their social circle A chance to take part in activities not offered at school A potential career Teamwork skills Increases confidence Persistence and patience.

But – play is important too. Educational Psychologist Peter Gray wrote that we should allow children more time playing and that more time in the classroom can be detrimental, because kids “Judgement, wisdom and creative ability come from life experiences,” 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).

LIPA Generic Ad 2014 60x100 colour_Layout 1 10/06/2015

twitter.com/dmdancing

www.dmdancecentre.co.uk

Tel: 02380 554192 Email: info@dmdancecentre.co.uk 10 Spring Crescent, Portswood, Southampton, SO17 2GA

LIPA 4:19

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Sing Dance Act Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts Lead Patron Sir Paul McCartney

Watch their confidence flow.

Performing arts academy for 4 – 19 year olds FREE TASTER SESSIONS SATURDAY CLASSES

Swimming lessons for children aged between 3-4yrs old Only £7.40 per lesson!

Now enrolling for the September term!

For more information contact us at: River Park Leisure Centre Gordon Road Winchester Hampshire SO23 7DD

Tel: 01962 848700 Email: ConstanceStanden@pfpleisure.org

Applemore College

023 8084 8189 info@lipa419nfs.co.uk

www.lipa419.co.uk September/ October 2015

NEW FOREST/ SOUTHAMPTON

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ses Clas & s club ties vi acti

Local clubs & classes directory autumn 2015 Perform

020 7255 9120 www.perform.org.uk Drama, dance and signing workshops for 4 - 12 years. Classes available in Winchester, Southampton, Lymington and Romsey

ART Little Funky Art Club 07809 209442 www.littlefunkyart.com 1 – 4 years art and craft fun Mini Monet Southampton City Art Gallery 02380834536 www.southampton.gov.uk

Acting Up

DANCE & DRAMA

actingupinfo@gmail.com www.actinguphants.wix.com/ drama

DM Dance

02380 554192 info@dmdancecentre.co.uk www.dmdancecentre.co.uk Childrens classes catering for ages 3 -16 years and covering a variety of different dance styles. For beginners, intermediate and advanced dancers in all classes, so you can go along and have a go at any dance style.

Classes available Ready Steady Dance 3 - 8 years. Class is a bit of everything including, ballroom and latin, cheerleading and freestyle Saturday 9.30-10.15am.

Children’s classes 8 - 16 years Including Salsa, Ballroom, Latin, Freestyle, Musical Theatre and Street/Hip Hop Saturday 10.15am - 3pm

Acting UP provides affordable, high quality drama classes for children, teenagers and adults in Hampshire. We believe that drama classes don’t need to cost the earth for you or your little one to enjoy learning new skills whilst building ‘UP’ confidence and exploring their/your imagination. Taught by a professional theatre company, our classes give our students the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics such as performing scripts, creating their own stories, playing with puppetry and making films.

Didi Dance Emma: 07850312528 emma.phillips@diddidance.com Pyjama Drama (New Forest) 02380 983 290 Vikki Simmons

Perform weekly drama classes for 4-7s This September, 4-7s will be whisked away into the wonderful world of The Magician’s Chamber for an incredible Arthurian adventure.

With a spellbinding mix of myths and magic, children will meet the Rabbit in a Hat, dance The Broomstick Flick and stop wicked Morgan Le Fay from turning the baby King Arthur into a hamster!

Perform weekly drama classes for 7-12s Each term Perform 7-12s put together a specially written show with original music, high energy dance and lots of funny scenes to enjoy. This autumn the 7-12s will rehearse a unique adaptation of the Shakespearean classic Romeo and Juliet, set on the mean streets of modern-day London called Rome ‘n Jewels.

Perform classes are designed to build confidence, improve communication, give children a creative outlet to make friends, have fun and teach life skills that will be invaluable in future life.

Perform offer free, noobligations trials. Call for more

details.

Low cost, high quality drama lessons for children, teenagers and adults.

Stagecoach Southampton and Eastleigh 01962 771024

southampton@stagecoach.co.uk

Winchester and Totton 01794 390601 winchester@stagecoach.co.uk Fareham and Hedge End 02380 465006 fareham@stagecoach.co.uk Call the centres for class details and locations or visit the website: www.stagecoach.co.uk

LIPA 4:19

02380 848189 info@lipa419nfs.co.uk www.lipa419.co.uk Singing, dance and performance classes run at Applemore College “Great way to spend time enjoying quality learning” Sir Paul McCartney Affiliated to The Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, LIPA 4:19 offers 4 to 19 year olds of all abilities the chance to develop creativity and confidence through the performing arts. Fun Saturday classes in acting, singing and dance, performance opportunities and accredited exams in age appropriate groups. Term starts on 12 September 2015 at Applemore College.

For a free taster sessions call 023 8084 8189.

Now accepting new students join us for a free trial this September.

From £3.50 a class

Locks Heath

Hamble

Gosport

actingupinfo@gmail.com www.actinguphants.wix.com/drama

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Clubs & classes

Academy Studios 01794 515129 www.academy-studios.com A variety of classes available including Academy Stage School, Pregancy yoga, toddler dance classes and singing and storytime. Call for details and times of classes.

LANGUAGES La Jolie Ronde Anne-Marie Le Meur 07854749202 www.lajolieronde.co.uk French and Spanish for children Hiltingbury Community Centre Marco Languages 02380 773390 www.marcolanguages.co.uk French club for 2 - 5 years.

MUSIC Chuckle Chunes 07947 568 488 www.chucklechunes.co.uk Jiggy Wrigglers Liz: 07846143502 Laura: 07823441444 www.jiggywrigglers.com Jo Jingles Zara Wells 07539 376935 Dibden Purlieu and Lymington Maracca Jacks Caroline 01489 781122 www.maracajacks.co.uk Locations across Hampshire.

Monkey Music 02380 900178 www.monkeymusic.co.uk Moo Music Sue Griffiths: 07956787330 www.moo-music.co.uk Eastleigh, Chandler’s Ford, Stockbridge and Romsey ‘Moosical fun for your little one’

SPORT Baby Ballet 01422 329471 www.babyballet.co.uk Classes for 6 months - 5 years David Lloyd Junior Tennis 02380 747160 www.davidlloyd.co.uk Coaching for 4+. Southampton Flemming Park Tennis Centre 02380 667532 www.servingtennis.net Programmes from 3 years+

September/ October 2015

Goals Soccer Centre 02380 510666 www.goalsfootball.co.uk Kids coaching fro 5 years+ Planet Sport 0845 658 9800 www.planetsport.co.uk Rugbytots

0845 3133244 Southhants@rugbytots.co.uk www.rugbytots.co.uk Rugbytots is a play programme using the multi-skills of rugby such as passing, kicking and running with the ball to develop childrens social and physical skills. As young children learn how to carry out new skills on their own such as passing, catching and kicking a ball, with the help and encouragement of experienced coaches, you will see their independence and self-confidence blossom.

Rugbytots engenders the concepts of teamwork, respect for others and a healthy approach to competitiveness including how to win and lose graciously – skills that will stand them in good stead for life. We run daytime, weekend and after school classes across Hampshire. Call for details.

River Park Gymnastics Club 01962 848700

www.placesforpeopleleisure.org

Starz Academy 0333 1234140 www.starzacademyuk.com Ballet classes for 6 months – 6 years.

SWIMMING Swiminis River Park Leisure Centre 01962 848700 riverparkleisurecentre.co.uk

Whether it’s your childs first ever swimming lessons or they are confident and happily swimming on the front and back, we are able to help. Sticking to a ratio of 1 teacher to four children we help to teach your child a life skill in a safe and fun environment; and at only £7.40 per lesson we offer the best value for swimming lessons in Winchester.

Contact us now for more details.

Starlight Trampoline & Gymnastics Club 02380 663664 www.starlightgym.co.uk 4yrs+ at Houndsdown School, Totton, Southampton.

Puddle Ducks 01202 674676 www.puddleducks.com Antenatal, babies and toddler plus a primary school level.

Kumon (Romsey) Claire: 01962 620111 romsey@kumoncentre.co.uk Southampton Tutors 02381 040120 southampton.tutors@gmail.com

Solent Swim Academy 07554 973 304

www.solentswimacademy.co.uk

Classes for 2½+ years

TUITION Boost Maths Caroline 02380 341776 www.boostmaths.co.uk Fun, friendly Maths booster lessons for 9-16-year-olds.

Games-based tuition to maintain students’ interest and help those who learn best through seeing and doing. One-to-one tuition also available as well as group tuition. Call for more details.

To include your business in our clubs and classes listings, please contact us on 07554 880140. We will be doing another clubs directory in the January/ February issue. The deadline to be included in this issue will be 1 December.

Don't forget to say you saw these adverts in

SOLENT WEST MAGAZINE

Hedge End Advert.qxp_Layout 1 05/02/2015 09:59 Page 1

Enrolling Now! Contact your local school for more details.

Fareham & Hedge End 02380 465006 fareham@stagecoach.co.uk

Southampton & Eastleigh 01962 771024

eastleigh@stagecoach.co.uk

Winchester & Totton 01794 390 601

totton@stagecoach.co.uk

Age 4-18

Fun, confidence-building, educational classes in acting, singing and dance.

QUALITY TRAINING

ESTABLISHED 1988 600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

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Halloween and Autumn Half Term 24 October - 1 November It’s frightfully fun at the Farm this Halloween

spooky trails and ghostly tales in Hampshire with the National Trust Halloween trail Hinton Ampner near Alresford SO24 0LA Enjoy a spooky adventure at Hinton Ampner, with free entry for children in fancy dress! Find the pumpkins hidden around the estate and collect a treat if you succeed. 11am – 3pm

Blood-curdling crafts* and frightful face painting*

£5.00 entry for children in spooky fancy dress!**

*Small extra charge

FRIDAY 30th OctOBER

Silly Scott and his Spooktacular Halloween Family Magic Show.

** 30th/31st Oct only

SATURDAY 31 st OctOBER

Barn owls and lots of creeeepy creatures with

Tree-mendous trail Mottisfont nr Romsey SO51 0LP Pick up a Halloween tree trail this half term and find out how spooky Mottisfont’s trees really are! This trail packs in crafts, physical activities and creative fun. Ages 5 to 10. 10am – 5pm

Farm open as usual throughout half term week.

Daily 10am - 5pm.

Off A35, Ashurst, New Forest T. 023 8029 2837 www.longdownfarm.co.uk

It’s A Real Hands-On Experience!

OUR SUPER SCARY

HALLO SCREAM GHOST TRAIN

AT EXBURY GARDENS

Come and enjoy our rib-tickling train rides:

MON 26th OCT - SUN 1st NOV First train: 10.45am Last train: 3pm Pre-booking essential

Please call for more information: 023 8024 5750

Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway, Exbury, Southampton, Hampshire SO45 1AZ 14

Solent West Magazine

Pumpkin carving, story-telling and scary trails Winchester City Mill SO23 0EJ Bring your own pumpkin to the Mill’s pumpkin carving workshopb and follow scary trails crawling with cobwebs!

10am – 4pm

ghostly goings on down on the farm

Manor Farm Country Park SO31 1BH For some hair-raising fun this half term head to Manor Farm & Country Park near Southampton.

Meet costumed characters in the Haunted House, take part in Halloween themed arts & crafts, walk the spooky farmyard trail and more!

Spooky Halloween Trail

Exbury Gardens & steam railway

Itchen Valley Country Park SO30 3HQ 10.30am and 4pm. Cost £1.75 to include a pencil and a prize.

Read the clues, find the spooky answers around the park to win a prize.

Longdown Activity Farm SO40 7EH Friday 30 October see Silly Scott performing his Spooktacular Halloween Family Magic Show.

Saturday 31st October meet barn owls and lots of creeeeepy creatures courtesy of The Creature Teachers. On both days there will be blood-curdling crafts* and face-painting*. Every child that arrives at the farm in spooky fancy dress (30th & 31st October only) will be allowed entry at a special rate of just £5 each (cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer).

All this and our full schedule of hands-on farm activities. See our events page on our website for more details. *extra charge applies.

Exbury Ghost Train

Exbury Gardens SO45 1AZ Starts 26 October. Experience a frightfully spooky Hallo-Scream at Exbury Gardens. Families can enjoy some hair-raising and ribtickling fun on the Exbury Ghost Train as it takes to the rails over half-term. With skeletons, scarecrows and other ghoulish characters en route, Exbury dares you to experience their Halloween week ‘Phantomime’!

Free goody bags will be given out as well as a new spooky trail so children can discover the Chinese Coffin Tree, the Ghost Tree and the Devil’s Walking Stick in the gardens! Trains run from 10.45am, pre-booking is essential. Call 02380 245750. www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

Halloween

Marwell Zoo SO21 1JH

Get ready to be spooked...

Design a pumpkin for carving and watch our animals explore and eat their pumpkin treats.

Be enthralled by spooky storytelling with our resident witch, uncover the mysteries of Marwell through our factpacked talk and have bundles of fun on our scarecrow selfie.

The event runs daily from 11am – 4pm, standard entry fees apply. Visit the website www.marwell.org.uk Pumpkin Carving and scary face painting

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens

SO51 0QA

Come and carve a pumpkin from 27 – 30 October, drop in sessions between 1pm - 3.30pm. £3 for pumpkin carving plus normal admission fee applies and face painting charges apply. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Wizard Weekend

Watercress Line SO24 9JG 30 - 31 October Watch the Watercress Line transform in to a place of magic and mischief on Halloween!

Walk in Harry Potter’s footsteps over the railway footbridge where he received his Hogwarts Express ticket; the famous film location from Kings Cross station that is now here at the Watercress Line! Come dressed as a witch, wizard or Halloween spook and find out about bats, owls and all things magical! With craft activities, face painting*, Mr Wizard magic shows, witches Besom brooms* and daily shows from the FalconHigh display team.

Brickworks Museum SO31 7HB 1 November Their last big steam up of the year with all the resident traction engines on display, trailer rides, trains running and all the ghosts stirred up to add to the spooky adventure. The event runs from 11am - 4pm.

Adults £6, Conc £5, Families £15. To book or for more information visit the website: www.bursledonbrickworks.co.uk or call 01489 576248.

September/ October 2015

Have lots of magical fun at the Park with creepy crafts, frightening face painting, spooky story telling and the Spell Scavenger Hunt!

So much to do at Staunton Country Park!

• Let the kids loose in George’s Play Barn • Meet our friendly farm animals • Explore our rainforest experience

KIDS GO FREE!*

Hand in this voucher when you visit to receive *up to two free children with every full paying adult. Expires 01 Nov 2015 FSW01

www.hants.gov.uk/staunton www.hants.gov.uk

Halloween Workshop at the Tutu Club

Hanger Farm Arts Centre Totton, SO40 8FT 31 October from 9am - 3.30pm There’s dance, drama and crafty Halloween fun to be had in the barn with the Tutu Club.

Call 02380 667683 for more information or visit their website www.hangerfarm.co.uk

It’s party time at Jungle Jeans this Halloween

Halloween Steam Up Bursledon

Sat 24 Oct to Sun 01 Nov, 10.30am – 3.30pm



Halloween Festival

Spellbinding Staunton

Jungle Jeans West Quay Road, Southampton SO15 1GZ 30 & 31 October from 6-8pm Jungle Jeans will be hosting two Halloween parties this October for children up to 12 years. Featuring Southampton Reptile Centre where you can get up close with some real creepy crawlies, snakes and lizards. Join in with the fun and take part in their competitions, games, crazy tattoos and spooky disco. There will be lot of tricks and plenty of treats at Jungle Jeans from 30 - 31 October from 6-8pm. Call for more details or visit the website. www.junglejeans.co.uk

Wizards, Witches and Magical Mayhem!

Mon 26 – Fri 30 Oct

Join us for an enchanting Halloween experience, including arts and crafts, a tractor ride to the enchanted forest and a magical story told by a professional story teller.

Booking essential for this two hour activity.

Price: £7.00 per child. ase visit To book ple .uk/shop ov .hants.g www

www.hants.gov.uk/qecp www.hants.gov.uk

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

15

Out & about

What’s on

@Familiessolentw

Facebook.com /Familiessolentwest

Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have changed since we have gone to print ..and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families Solent West Magazine! Visit our website www.familiessolentwest.co.uk/whats-on for an updated list of local events or scan the code above

Running until 27 September Dino Encounter

SeaCity Museum Havelock Road, SO14 7LY 10am-5pm, Entry fee applies This exhibition brings you face to face with lifelike animatronic dinosaur models from the Natural History Museum and reveals how new techniques are helping us understand more about these amazing creatures than ever before.

8, 9, 10, 22, 23 & 24 September Forest School – Little Foresters

Itchen Valley Country Park 023 8068 3790. Booking required 10am - 11.30am. Cost £4.50 per child aged 2+ years.

Fortnightly outdoor session for children and parents includes activities, crafts, games and campfire cooking. Every session is different and mainly based on seasonal resources.

5,6,12 & 13 September Milling Demonstrations

Winchester City Mill Wednesdays and weekends 11am – 4pm This rare example of a working watermill is one of the most visited mills in Britain. Watch the millers grind corn into wholemeal flour using equipment powered by the fast-flowing River Itchen. Hands-on activities for younger visitors, audiovisual displays and a chance to watch the latest CCTV footage of the mill’s resident otters.

12 September The Romsey Show

Broadlands Park 8.30am to 6pm Aduts £17, 11-18 years £11, children under 11 go free. Family ticket £44 A real agricultural show and great day out with something for all the family.

The Berry Theatre 10.30am to 11.15am Join the storytellers as they whisk audiences off to faraway lands with their enchanting tales, silly songs and lively games. Each session ends with interactive play time, where everyone becomes part of the story.

Tickets: £3. Suitable 3 - 7 years accompanied by an adult.

Call the box office on 023 8065 2333.

19 & 20 September A Children’s War

11-20 September Southampton Boat Show

Mayflower Park Britain’s best loved on-water Boat Show, you can see 1000’s of boats of all types and sizes. You are also able to get out on the water with numerous experiences and activities from 10.00am-6.30pm. 15 years and under go free, standard day ticket £15 in advance or £22 on the gate. Book your tickets either online or by calling 0844 776 7766.

The Show is located at Mayflower Park, SO15 1AG

19 September & 10 October Saturday Storytime

18 & 19 September What the Ladybird Heard

Nuffield Theatre University Road, SO15 1TR 18th - 1.30pm & 4.30pm 19th - 10.30am & 1.30pm Join the woolly sheep, the hairy hog, the fat red hen and the dainty dog in this brand new stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ colourful farmyard adventure. With live music, puppetry, audience participation and lots of laughs!

Suitable for ages 3+. Tickets - £12

Manor Farm Country Park 11am – 4pm A chance to discover what life was like for children during the war. Hands on activities and demonstrations throughout the day and why not follow the Time Traveller’s Trail to discover more about a child’s life on the Wartime farm.

19 September Seasonal baking demonstration

Winchester City Mill 11am – 3pm The team at the Mill use their own freshly milled stone-ground flour, combined with other local produce to make seasonally-themed biscuits and buns. Taste the results after the demonstrations and take home free recipe cards.

20 September Trains Take Over day

19 & 20 September Here be Monsters

Theatre Royal Winchester Sat 11.30am & 2pm Sun 11.30am & 2pm £13 Concessions £12 Family £43 Join the villainous Captain CutThroat and his fearsome crew as they set sail through monster-infested waters in search of a mysterious island crammed with jewels and gem stones. The Captain is certain that “monsters simply don’t exist,” but as they near the island and the mist closes in around them, his crew are not so sure. A thrilling new musical adventure, performed by five talented actor musicians who bring this exciting story to life.

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Bursledon Brickworks Museum 11am - 4pm Adults £6, Conc £5, Families £15 A day for train lovers. Hampshire Narrow Gauge Railway are in charge today and they will be getting out all their engines plus there will be more on display inside.

23-27 September Mayflower Theatre

Horrible Histories – Groovy Greeks and Incredible Invaders Prices range from £17 - £19 various start times Recommended Age: 5+ Box Office 02380 711811 We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage! Using actors and stunning 3D special effects, these two World Premieres - Groovy Greeks and Incredible Invaders are guaranteed to thrill you and your children. www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

Out & about Historical figures and events will come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips! From savage Sparta to angry Athens, discover the truth about growing up in Greece. Take on the Trojans and pummel the Persians! Compete in the first ever Olympic Games and appear in the very first play! Meet your match with the Minotaur and be zapped by Zeus!

Hold on tight as you gatecrash the gruesome and Groovy Greeks!

6, 7 & 8 October Forest School – Little Foresters

Itchen Valley Country Park 023 8068 3790. Booking required 10am - 11.30am. Cost £4.50 per child aged 2+ years. Fortnightly outdoor session for children and parents includes activities, crafts, games and campfire cooking. Every session is different and mainly based on seasonal resources..

8 October Scamp Theatre presents: The Scarecrows’ Wedding

Theatre Royal Winchester 1.30pm & 4.30pm Tickets £13, Family £43, Age 3+ Based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler The Scarecrows’ Wedding. Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay are excellent scarecrows (they scare a lot of crows). Harry loves Betty, and

Betty loves Harry – so they decide to get married. Harry sets off to search for their wedding day essentials including a dress of feathers, a bunch of flowers and a necklace made from shells. However, when the farmer notices he is missing a scarecrow, he replaces Harry with the devilishly smooth but dangerous Reginald Rake. Dashing, daring and ever so cool, can Reginald persuade Betty that he is the scarecrow for her?

Will Harry make it back in the nick of time before Reginald ruins their special day? Bursting at the seams with Scamp Theatre’s inimitable style, this epic love story promises wit, drama, and wedding bells!

10 & 11 October Create your own Land Art

Mottisfont nr Romsey SO51 0LP Inspired by its Arborealists exhibition of art that celebrates the beauty of trees, Mottisfont is hosting an exciting weekend of Land Art, suitable for all ages. Join a free session to help create a large-scale piece of temporary art using natural materials, radiating out from some of Mottisfont’s magnificent trees.

These artworks will be left to melt back into the landscape, but not before they’ve been recorded using photography and film.

23 – 27 SEPTEMBER

Book online mayflower.org.uk Box Office 02380 711811

Theatre

A Nuffield and Royal & Derngate, Northampton co-production

26 November 2015 - 3 January 2016 Created by Ella Hickson, Rob Castell and Ollie Birch Directed by Liam Steel

023 8067 1771 nuffieldtheatre.co.uk September/ October 2015

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

17

Out & about

10 October My Pet Monster and Me Hanger Farm Arts Centre Totton, SO 11am & 2pm.

Tickets: £8/ £6 concessions Join us down on the farm for adventures with Sophie and her new friend George, the most lovable monster in the land! This bighearted fairytale is especially for little monsters aged 3 - 7, and their grown-ups. Told with magical songs, enchanting music and exquisite puppetry, by Blunderbus Theatre, the team who brought Hugless Douglas to Hanger Farm last year!

11 October Family Sundays: Theo the Mouse

Winchester Discovery Centre £10 Adults - £8 Children Theo the Mouse and his best friend Wendy are coming for an afternoon of pure family fun and laughter.

Their show is jam packed with songs, jokes, magic and is suitable for ages 3- 10. Written and devised by Wink Taylor - the writer behind The Basil Brush and The Sooty Show. Once seen the loveable and cheeky Theo the Mouse will soon become every child’s favourite friend. One thing is certain with Theo around, no two shows are the same - make no mousetake. Call the box office on 01962 873603.

18 October Vintage Fair and Flea Market Bursledon Brickworks Museum £2 per person Lots of stalls to browse your way through and a museum as well.

18 October Family Sundays: What to do when you find a dinosaur?

Winchester Discovery Centre £7 or four for £22.

In 1824 an eccentric Oxford scientist, William Buckland, discovered a bone from a creature that no one had ever seen before. He named it the Megalosaurus, and he was desperate to tell the world about it. Are you ready to join him when the amazing dinosaur story first begins? Discover a pre-historic story in this bone-shaking, music-making, belly-aching show for everyone aged 4 to 8 years and their families. Call the box office on 01962 873603.

24 October Dancing with the insects

The Point Eastleigh Look down. What are you standing on? Explore the ground and all of its wriggling inhabitants in this quirky dance show for young children by Second Hand Dance. Featuring worms, slugs, snails, spontaneous outbreaks of ant dancing and plenty of obscure insect-related facts, Grass uses performance, puppetry and projection to inspire children to look

closely at the world around them, to get mucky and play! suitable for ages four+. 2pm. Tickets £8, £6 for concessions. Call the box office on 023 8065 2333.

24 October - 1 November Every Picture Tells a Story

Bursledon Brickworks Museum 11am - 4pm, Adults £5, Conc £4, Families £13. Use our old photograph collection to inspire your stories. What was the man by the kiln thinking? Was he wondering what was for dinner? We will also have a ghostly treasure hunt to try if you dare!

24 October - 1 November Winchester Children’s Book Festival

Winchester Discovery Centre A week of book events for children, authors, illustrators, workshops, theatre and shows.

28 October Duck in the Truck - part of Winchester Children’s Book Festival

Winchester Discovery Centre 11.30am and 2.30pm £7 or four for £22 Based on the bestselling book by acclaimed children’s author Jez Alborough, this funny, silly, yucky mucky show will have you giggling away, singing along and laughing out loud. Ducklings aged 3 - 7 years old will love this hilarious tale, but for those grown-up ducks who waddle along, they’ll have lots of fun, too.

It’s totally quackers! Join Duck and his friends in this happy new adventure with puppetry, sing-along songs and plenty of opportunities to join in along the way. But, don’t forget to wear your wellies! Call the box office on 01962 873603.

24 -31 October Late Autumn Family Trail

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens As the days draw in and the winds blow colder get out and scamper like squirrels and see what hides beneath fallen leaves. Suitable for all the family. No need to book, just pick

up a trail map on your way into the Gardens.

25 October Campfires and Stories

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens 10am – 12.30pm Booking is essential, call 01794 369318. £10 per session (includes 1 adult and 1 child). Come for an autumnal session of fun, spooky songs and stories around the fire.

Learn how to start a fire, play with charcoal, make popcorn and toast a marshmallow too. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Suitable for ages 3 -12 years.

25 October Christmas Clay Day

Bursledon Brickworks Museum Adults & children 8+ £20 per person Come and spend a day making decorations to give as presents or keep! Fantastic as teacher’s presents.

No need for any experience just come and have some fun.

26 October Weave a Willow Bird Feeder

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Session one 10am -11am Session two 11.30am -12.30pm Session three 1.30pm – 2.30pm Booking essential, call 01794 369318. Price - £10 per session (includes 1 adult and 1 child) Learn how to create a hanging willow bird feeder, for feathered friends in your garden. This is a family workshop where everyone is encouraged to have a go. We will supply tools, materials, instruction and guidance. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 5 years+.

27 & 28 October Spooky Woodland Activity Days

Itchen Valley Country Park 023 8068 3790. Booking required.

9.30am to 3.30pm. £44 per child Two days of spooky woodland fun for children aged 6 – 11 years including, dens, games, crafts and campfires.

30th - 31st OCTOBER IT’S TIME TO BOARD THE WIZARD EXPRESS!

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Solent West Magazine

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Out & about

29 & 30 October Manor Farm Trick or Treat

Manor Farm Country Park Tours at 6pm, 6.45pm & 7.30pm Meet witches, wizards and things that go bump in the night on this light-hearted guided family tour. Each child receives a goody bag. Ideal for 6 – 12yrs. Child £7 includes goody bag, Adult £4. Advance ticket only. Meet at farm reception.

29 October Glass Halloween Lanterns

Itchen Valley Country Park 023 8068 3790 Any time between 10.30am and 12.30pm. £3 per lantern. Make a creepy glass lantern to take home.

your free prop bag, warm up your singing voices and teach you some dance moves with the help of the Singalonga Princesses. Watch as we bring the film to life and help you experience this movie in a whole new light. Age 5+. Call 01202 451865.

Cruise to St. Malo with Wessex Heartbeat

6 November Fawley Fireworks Display

Gang Warily Recreation Centre Themed to ‘A night at the movies’ you can expect a high quality display synchronized to music. Fun fair, live music, food, bar and much more. £2 entry. 5pm - 9pm

26 November – 3 January 16 Merlin

Nuffield Theatre Enter the enchanting, mythical kingdom of Camelot and discover the magical legend of Merlin. Prince Beaulieu Motor Museum Arthur is destined to become a Be wowed by the explosive and knight, but he is torn between a dynamic fireworks display. Have fun duty to his country and loyalty to on the Beaulieu rides and old-time his friends. Join childhood friends fairground entertainment. From 3pm Arthur, Gwen and Merlin as they embark on an action-packed journey 1 November of a lifetime, encountering powerful Sing-a-Long-a FROZEN magic forces, mystical characters Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre and adventures beyond their wildest Presented by Singalonga Productions dreams. This musical play combines Ltd. A full screening of Disney’s exquisite, quick-fire storytelling FROZEN with lyrics on screen to with new music by and Rob Castell help you sing along during the film.

(BAFTA-nominated, Officially Introduced by a live host who will Amazing, CBBC). Tickets from £10. guide you through this interactive Call the box office book 023 8067 RAHSS -by Families 1 to20/8/15 08:54 screening showing you Solent how to use87x130:Layout 1771.

31 October Beaulieu Firework Spectacular

PROBABLY THE BEST ONE DAY SHOW IN THE SOUTH

27 - 29 November 2015 Wessex Heartbeat have joined with Brittany Ferries and have arranged a fund-raising mini-cruise to St. Malo from 27th to 29th November 2015.

Guests will travel overnight on board the Brittany Ferries flagship “Pont Aven” on Friday 27th November departing Portsmouth at 20.15pm and arriving the following morning in St. Malo, guests will have the whole day to visit this fascinating part of France.

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Included: • • • • • •

Saturday 12th September 2015 Broadlands Park, Romsey

•A FULL DAY OF FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY •ACTION PACKED SHOW RINGS •ALL DAY DEMONSTRATIONS up to •BUSTLING TRADE TENTS 20% OFCFE •FABULOUS FOOD AREA ADVAN TS TICKE and

Return ferry crossing Ensuite inside 2 berth cabin accommodation for two nights Welcome drinks reception Breakfast each morning in the self service restaurant Four course Gala Dinner on the Saturday evening Free car passage with a minimum of 2 persons. Car for min of 2 persons – max 1.83m high, 5m long.

At only £99 per person, spaces are limited!

Supplements available on request.

To book this mini cruise go to visit: www.brittanyferries.co.uk/wsxhb1 or phone 0871 244 1444 and quote WSXHB1

www.heartbeat.co.uk I 02380 706095

FREE ENTRY

For children under 11 Limit of 2 children when accompanied by 1 fee paying adult

www.romseyshow.co.uk FREE CAR PARKING WITH SHUTTLE TRAIN TO THE ENTRANCE

PO Box 270, Southampton General Hospital, SO16 6GE. Registered Charity No.1116510

In aid of ROMSEY AGRICULTURAL & HORSE SHOW SOCIETY A Charity which exists to promote Agriculture and Horsebreeding Registered Charity Number 1007948

September/ October 2015

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

19

There’s ghostly goings on down on the farm‌ Meet costumed characters in the Haunted House, take part in Halloween themed arts & crafts, walk the spooky farmyard trail and more!

From Sat 24 Oct to Sun 1 Nov

www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm www.hants.gov.uk

Solent West Magazine

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk