Families Herts March-April 2104

FREE Issue No. 55 Mar/Apr 2014

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·Easter Family Fun ·Easter Competitions ·What's On: Spring & Easter ·Education: Prep Schools ·Choosing childcare

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Inside:

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The Herts magazine with the information young families want

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From your Editor…

In this issue:

At the time of writing I can see no let-up in the wet and windy winter, so I hope that things have improved as you, dear reader, are viewing this, the latest issue of Families Herts magazine.

Whatever the weather, the time of chicks and chocolate will soon be here so there is a lot to look forward to.

We highlight some of the fab attractions and activities families and children can enjoy in our Easter Family Fun and What’s On sections and there much more besides.

Here's a fact I would like to share: this is the first issue of our 10th year of publication!

Wishing you a Happy Mothers' Day (if you're a mum) and Happy Easter to all.

Shelley Where are we? Baldock, Bishops Stortford, Borehamwood, Chorleywood, Harpenden, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, Hitchin, Kings Langley, Knebworth, Letchworth, Radlett, St Albans, Stevenage, Ware, Welwyn GC. Pick it up from cafes, playgroups, nurseries, schools, activity groups, selected shops, surgeries, leisure centres and libraries. Get in touch to request copies for your venue.

Subscribe to get Families Herts by post for just £9.30 for 6 issues (1 year) or £18 for 12 issues (2 years). Call or email for a subscription form.

Families Herts, PO Box 434, Pinner, HA5 9AH Tel/Fax: 020 8428 6384 editor@familiesherts.co.uk www.familiesherts.co.uk

News & Views: 4 Education: 6 Childcare: 8 Competitions: 9 Easter Family Fun: 10 What's On: 12 May/June deadline: 1st April Next Issue: Children's Parties

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News & Views Let’s Get Reading!

Beechwood Park School

The Reading Centre by C4x is launching a new online program to help children aged 5 – 15 to become competent readers.

Parents can drop their children for one-to-one sessions, where the child will be motivated to improve their reading fluency and comprehension. It guides and assists children as they read and records them so that they can listen to themselves.

The child is monitored daily by the centre who can hear the recorded reading online.

Parents receive a weekly progress report.

An extensive library with over 300 books caters for all ability levels. The program aims to improve vocabulary, fluency and comprehension because reading fluency is vital for understanding.

Some children are unable to hear certain frequencies of sounds and this causes them to hear and process spoken language in a manner that adversely affects their phonological awareness, reading and spelling. The Reading Centre also runs programmes that aim to improve children's cognitive skills for learning and that help to prepare children for the phonics screening check at the end of Year One. To find out more and to book a FREE consultation call Florence on 07919 067343

‘Awesome’, ‘amazing’, ‘phenomenal’ – just a few of the superlatives heard at the end of the recent O Duo concert at Beechwood Park School. The performance was part of the professional concert series held at the school. O Duo, a percussion duo featuring, Owen Gunnell and Oliver Cox, played a varied programme ranging from Chopin to Stomp.

Before the concert Owen and Oliver, both scholars at the Royal College of Music led Beechwood Year 6 pupils in a workshop.

Headmaster, Patrick Atkinson, commented “To see such young and hugely talented musicians perform at Beechwood Park has

Ultrabuzz Parties

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been inspirational for our pupils.”

The next event in the series is a performance

by Trio D’Art on 20th June at 7pm. To book email l.peck@beechwoodpark.herts.sch.uk or call 01582 840333 ext. 4 or book online on www.wegottickets.com.

Beechwood Park School is a co-ed day and boarding school for children aged 4 to 13 years it also has a Montessori nursery. The next Open Morning is on 23rd May. Visit www.beechwoodpark.net or call 01582 840333

Pauline Quirke Academy Expands The Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA) in Hemel Hempstead is one of 60 academies set up by renowned actress, Pauline Quirke. PQA trains 4-18 year olds in the performing arts in a friendly and rewarding environment.

Since taking over the reins Principal, David Jenkins, has doubled student numbers and moved the academy to a bigger and better venue (The Hemel Hempstead School in Heath Lane).

David is eminently qualified in his role, having worked professionally since he was 15.

He has had roles in Oliver Twist, The Wizard of Oz and Midsummer Night’s Dream. Off

stage he has been involved in production and management.

With the huge success of his morning academy, David is opening of an afternoon academy. There will be a FREE open day on Saturday 29th March from 1.45pm-5pm with free taster sessions in comedy, drama, musical theatre and film and television.

To find out more go to www.pqacademy.com

Parents wanting to throw a memorable party to celebrate their child's birthday are turning to Herts-based Ultrabuzzdance, who combine the popularity of kids' Zumba with the latest streetdance moves.

"Our parties take place in a venue of your choice (a hall with wooden flooring is recommended) and are tailored for 4-7s , 8-12s and teens," says Sholée Parry, a qualified fitness industry trainer and Zumba instructor.

Her business partner, Debbie Butler, draws on her professional dance experience. .

"The birthday child can choose their favourite music," adds Sholée. "Then we come up with routines and games so the parents, families and friends can sit back and watch the fun!"

To book an Ultrabuzz party call 07717 316 242 or email info@ultrabuzzdance. co.uk. Fully insured and DBS-checked.

Get 10% off from Labels4Kids Labels4Kids have added the new snappy school multi-pack to their website. The pack contains vinyl labels which, being waterproof, are great for non-clothing items; two bag tags and snap-on snappy tags etched with a name.

Snappy tags are removable and reusable.

Other new lines include personalised luggage straps with security locks and (following the sad demise of historic labelling company, Cash’s Name Tapes) Labels4Kids are supplying sew-on labels that have pre-sealed edges to stop fraying. Sign up for their newsletter or ‘like’ the Labels4Kids facebook page for competitions and offers. Go to www.labels4kids.com/fam and use “pass” for 10% off.

Treasure Island Craft Event If your children are crafters go along to Junior Scholars’ in Watford on 8th March for a fun-filled morning of creative play. Kids will create a collage of their ideal treasure island.

Plus, there’s colouring, drawing, puzzle play and educational games. Refreshments will be served and children will receive a lucky dip prize. For ages 4 to 10 years (with an adult). Registration 11.15am; craft sessions at 11.30am and 12.30pm (45 mins each).

Only £2 per child. ‘Like’ their Facebook page at facebook.com/juniorscholarsuk. Junior Scholars is at 9 The Parade, Watford, Herts WD17 1LQ. Call 01923 222654 or visit www. juniorscholars.co.uk/events.

Junior Scholars is also the home of The Sound Cube – the Recording Studio Party. Kids aged from 7 up can have fun singing, dancing and recording their favourite song. www.thesoundcube.co.uk

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Free maths and English activities - 15th April!

Explore Learning centres provide maths, English and 11+ tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Explore centres are open 7 days a week, and children can attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis.

On the 15th April Explore will be hosting a Community Open Day! There will be free interactive maths and literacy workshops for 5 – 14 year olds. Spaces are limited so call your local centre to reserve your place.

Call Borehamwood: 020 3004 0096 / St Albans: 01727 853992 or visit www.explorelearning.co.uk.

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Education

Prep schools: what are they and how to choose the right one?

By Ellen Arnison

Traditionally, a preparatory school was where a boy was sent to ‘prepare’ to go to one of the major British public schools, such as Eton and Harrow, working up to them sitting the Common Entrance exam at 13.

While that picture still exists, there is now a greater variety of options.

Broadly, there are two kinds of prep school – one where the children leave at age 11, perhaps after sitting the 11+ exam, and one where the children sit the Common Entrance exam then leave at age 13.

Some youngsters attend a prep school until they reach their 11+ exam and then transfer to a local state school (grammar or comprehensive).

The smaller classes and the focussed attention in a prep school can improve their chances.

Although, once the preserve of boys, nowadays girls and boys go to prep schools and many schools are co-educational.

Prep schools offer more than just drilling for examinations; they are able to provide a wide range of sports and specialized subjects, such as Latin.

Julie Robinson, a former prep school head and now the Education and Training Director at the Independent Association of Prep Schools said: “They say the independent sector seems to bring a set of high expectations: a huge amount of time invested in pastoral support and personal development for the children, excellent facilities and a focus on learning.

“Parents believe their investment in fees is an investment in their children’s future.”

At first glance the decision about whether or not to use a prep school is daunting. Then if you do choose to take that educational route selecting the one that will suit your child best can seem bewildering.

There are more than 1,000 prep schools in the UK. Some are boarding

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schools, some are day schools, some may offer a choice of being a boarder or a day pupil, some may offer part-time boarding where children can stay at school three nights a week and at home the rest of the week, or they may board weekdays and go home at weekends.

Some prep schools will be part of ‘allthrough’ schools; taking children into their nursery at 3 years of age right up until A-Levels at age 18. Others will be attached to a senior school but may not have automatic transfer from the prep to the senior school.

Prep schools do not have to adhere to the National Curriculum which can give them freedom to offer a broader curriculum that isn’t burdened by tests.

There isn’t always an entrance exam for prep schools. In many cases the school will just want to interview you and your child, perhaps inviting him or her to a ‘taster’ session in class. This also allows teaching staff to observe how your child fits in.

Looking to the end destination – the senior school – and working backwards can help you see the wood for the trees. Your decision will be narrowed by factors such as whether or not there is a prep school attached to or that feeds into your preferred secondary and what kinds of criteria they use to select pupils.

“Parents believe their investment in fees is an investment in their children’s future.”

Ask yourself these questions: Does the school meet your requirements in terms of gender, day and/or boarding, religious denomination and location?

Does it meet your educational objectives in terms of offering the exams your child will need to sit?

Will your child be happy there? Do you get good feedback from other parents and children?

What is the general atmosphere like?

Do you like the ethos of school? It’s usually very clear and follows strong leadership from the Head.

What is the teaching and staff turnover like?

What is the curriculum?

How big are the classes?

What is the school’s approach to discipline and rules?

What did the most recent inspection report say?

Does the school offer good pastoral care?

Does the school offer the facilities you would like to see, such as for sport, music or drama?

Is there a good range of extra-curricular activities?

Does the school give value for money? Take extras into account.

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Childcare

Choosing your childcare Childcare costs are increasing – but it is quality that matters the most for any parent. Joanna Moorhead looks at what option might suit you best, plus what’s new in 2014 It’s vital that your child is safe, happy and in a stimulating environment while you’re at work – but the money matters too. So what are the factors you need to take into account when you’re choosing childcare in readiness for returning to work?

A nanny might suit you if...

•You’re a reasonably high earner – nannies can be expensive, though they’re more affordable if you share them with another family. As well as basic pay, there are some extras to be aware of – particularly her tax, which you have to pay, but also car insurance if she’s driving your car, and the costs of any outings and visits your child is taken on.

•You work irregular hours. That’s because you can pay a nanny to work the hours you work, whereas a nursery or childminder will be less flexible about time.

•You have two or more children, or have one baby and hope to have another very soon, because you’ll pay your nanny for her time, not for the number of children she’s looking after.

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•You have quite rigorous ideas about, for example, your child’s diet, and his or her daily schedule. You can be much more prescriptive with a nanny than you can with a nursery or childminder, where your child will have to fit into an established schedule.

A childminder might suit you if...

•You work part-time or are not a high earner because childminders tend to cost less than other options.

•You have two or more children and would like them to see a lot of each other through the day.

•You like the idea of another mother caring for your child – most childminders are also mothers.

A nursery might suit you if...

•You have an only child or this is your youngest child and you are unlikely to have more in the near future – because a nursery will give him or her plenty of opportunities to play with other children.

•Your child is not a small baby, and so may benefit, particularly, from the organised activities a nursery can offer.

•You like the idea of a setting where events are regulated in a way that involves a lot of carers, rather than just one.

What’s happening in 2014?

Childcare is always a political hot potato – and with a General Election looming in just over a year’s time, politicians are saying more and doing more about it. Here’s what’s new on the childcare horizon: •From September 2014, more two-year-olds will be offered 15 hours of free childcare each week, because the eligibility criteria are being expanded. See www.hertsdirect.org for more information or pop into your local children’s centre or speak to your health visitor.

•Labour are promising free universal childcare for all pre-school children. If they win next time round, a dramatic announcement about the way childcare will be organised in the future is likely.

•The new tax-free childcare scheme comes

Image courtesy of © Maygutyak - Fotolia.com

into effect from 2015. Parents will be able to claim 20% of the cost of registered childcare up to £1,200 per child per year. Both parents must be working or a single parent must be in employment to qualify.

•Last year’s report from the Department for Education (DfE), that proposed making changes to the child to staff ratios in nurseries and for childminders was shelved after the LibDems objected, but the government has consulted on relaxing ratios and quality criteria for out-of-school childcare with the aim of making it easier for schools to offer provision. The issue is with the DfE, and an announcement is expected soon.

•Under the Children and Families Bill, now going through Parliament, Ofsted will be made ‘the sole arbiter of quality’. Local authorities will no longer be able to impose their own quality conditions on providers who offer childcare under the existing scheme offering free places for three and four year olds (provided these providers are not rated ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted). This may lead to a wider choice of providers but, on the other hand, local authorities will be less able to force childcarers to improve their services.

Useful websites: Childcare.co.uk www.familyandchildcaretrust.org www.pre-school.org.uk www.workingfamilies.org.uk

Easter Competitions Win a Family Ticket to

Willows Farm Village and crack the code for Easter family fun!

There are lots of egg-stra special activities during the Easter break at Willows, where family fun is as easy as A, B, C! Each year, Easter Eggstravaganza sees Willows come alive with eggceptional entertainment for all the family and this year is no different.

A choc-o-bloc programme awaits every family that visits Willows between 5 – 21 April 2014.

Shake your bunny tail with the Easter Bunny himself as he guides you through the Bunny Hop. Toot Toot! It’s time for a ride on Tristran the Runaway Tractor – a family favourite.

Egg on your little ones as they dip and dive to avoid the foam ‘eggs’ launched by the opposing white and yolks teams in Captain Chicken’s Egg Dodge.

Revel in the chocolatey treats as a reward for finding the hidden eggs in Willows Easter Garden.

Find the fluffy chicks, the bunnies of Hoppity Hills and all their adorable animal friends in The Farmyard.

Up the ante by burning off steam (and chocolate!) in Woolly Jumpers Indoor Play Barn, the new Little Learners JCB area, Young Chicks Activity Play area and Toddler Town – all offering egg-cellent entertainment should the weather turn ‘fowl’.

Note down where the 10 bunny cut outs are hidden in the Farm Village and receive an Easter treat for taking part.

You’d be crackers to miss it! The Easter Eggstravaganza is from 5 April until 21 April. See advert on page 2 for your 2-for-1 voucher.

To find out more go to www.willowsfarmvillage.com or call 0870 129 9718.

Enter to win one of two Family Tickets (each is for four people).

Closing date: 28th March

Win a copy of

The Music Miracle and a Moosicology music pack This new book by Liisa HenrikssonMacaulay brings together over 1200 studies to show that music training between the ages of 0 7 is the only method proven to boost a child’s IQ, while improving literacy, language skills, and emotional and social wellbeing.

The Moosicology music training package includes everything you need to put in to action the science you have learnt from the book. Moosicology is the first and only home education package designed to teach children real music skills through the combination of specially designed songs, stories and illustrations. Including a 64 track CD, an accompanying educational book and separate ‘Grown Up’s Guide’. This innovation in music teaches the skills that have been scientifically proven to boost brain development.

To find out more go to www.moosicology.com Enter to win one of three sets of the The Music Miracle plus the Moosicology Training pack Closing date: 30th April

To enter both of these competitions go to www.familiesherts.co.uk/comps

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Easter Family Fun The Easter weekend is a great time to relax and enjoy family time and here in Herts we are lucky to have some superb attractions where families can do just that. The Easter school holiday is also a time when children can spend time experiencing a new activity or spending more time doing an activity that they already love. Here is a taster of some of what is on offer. ...

Scholarship places at Best Theatre Arts plus Easter Holiday Courses

A ‘Wizard’ Experience Young performers are invited to take a trip down the Yellow Brick Road to discover the ruby slippers, brave the haunted forest and explore the strange and colourful world of their imaginations. Exclusively for 4-8 year olds, Perform Holiday Experiences are specially designed to encourage creativity and boost confidence and communication skills.

The children will make new friends, stretch their imaginations and enjoy plenty of fun and laughter as they bring Dorothy, The Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman and The Cowardly Lion to life in a thrilling last-day performance for family and friends. £95 per child with a 10% off if booked by 1st March.

To book call 0845 400 1272 or visit perform. org.uk Herts courses: 7 – 9 April, 2.30-4.30pm at Christ Church Vision Hall, Watling Street, Radlett, Herts, WD7 7JJ 14 - 16 April, 10am-12pm at Fleetville Junior School, 228, Hatfield Road, St Albans, AL1 4LW

Stop Press: New term-time branch in St Albans on Wednesdays, based at the United Reformed Church, Homewood Road, AL1 4BH. Classes for 4-8 yr olds (4-5pm) and 8-12 yr olds (5-6pm). Call 0845 400 1272 to book a Free Trial Lesson. If your child wants to continue you can claim a special £40 discount on your child's first ten sessions quote FAMI010514. More info at perform.org.uk

Space for Sport Fly off to Butterfly World

Butterfly World in St Albans re-opens on 24th March for lots of family fun. Learn about the lifecycle of the butterfly in the Tropical Butterfly House and experience over 500 free flying beauties. Wonder at the busy leafcutter ants in the biggest colony in the country, and get ‘hands on’ with creepy crawlies during the Insect Handling sessions. Parents can enjoy a wander through the designer gardens and a cup of tea at the Nectar House Cafe, whilst children play in the Natural Play area. A packed Children’s Holiday Activity programme has something exciting for all ages.

Open 10-5 daily. www. butterflyworldproject.com / 01727 869203

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If you are looking for activities to keep the kids entertained this Easter then give Sportspace Sports centres and the XC in Hemel Hempstead a go. At Sportspace there’s so much choice: trampolining, Arsenal Soccer School, mini tennis and even fencing!

Little Hay Golf Complex has an 18 hole golf course, driving range and pitch and putt great for tiring out little ‘tigers’.

For an extreme experience try the XC, with a skatepark, 14 metre climbing wall, organic indoor caving system plus bouldering and a challenging high ropes course, it takes some beating.

More details and booking at www.sportspace.co.uk / www.thexc.co.uk / 01442 507100

The XC ©Nick Molnar

Best Theatre Arts is launching a scholarship scheme for its St Albans Saturday afternoon school. There are 5 free places and 10 at half price. Children aged from 6 to 16 years are invited to apply. If you are an enthusiastic and committed young person this is for you, no experience is necessary. The scholarships last for one year, with further support in the second year which will make a full scholarship worth £1,458. Awards will be made after a fun, free workshop at Sandringham School on Tuesday 8th April.

Book at www.besttheatrearts.com, call 01727 59634 or email bestarts@aol.com.

Best is also booking now for its Easter holiday courses between 7-11 April: for 4 to 6 year olds it’s ’Matilda’ and for the 6 to 16 year olds it’s ‘The Nightmare before Easter’. See contact information above.

Get Activated Activate Sport run Multi Sport and Sport Specific holiday clubs and academies for 5 to 16 year olds. Courses run from 9.30 to 5.30 with optional extended hours. Academies are 3 to 5 days long and always feature a visit from an athlete or sporting role model.

Programmes are delivered by professional instructors who are CRB checked and trained to ensure children have the best care with maximum enjoyment.

This Easter there is: The Andrew Flintoff Cricket Academy at St George's VA School, Harpenden - 14 - 17 April.

The International Netball Roadshow at Berkhamsted School - 14 - 16 April.

Quote ASFM14 for 10% off! www.activatesport.co.uk / 01785 711 572

Make Berkhamsted BASECAMP your child’s BASE this holiday!

BASECAMP at Berkhamsted School offers activity day camps for children aged 3-16 years geared towards making every school holiday a time for fun.

Throughout the school holidays a variety of camps are available from sports and music, to crafts and cooking. For younger children there is miniBASECAMP – an activity camp designed for 3-5 year olds which can be booked for morning or afternoon sessions in addition to the full day.

Look out for the BASECAMP Summer camps in association with the Andrew Flintoff Cricket Academy and the Brendan Cole Performing Arts Academy.

BASECAMP runs every school holiday, and offers a wrap-around care from 7.30am until 6.30pm. www.berkhamstedbasecamp.co.uk.

Easter Eggstravaganza at Rye-Assic Adventure Park Special Easter Weekend: 18 – 21 April Don’t miss out on the Rye-Assic Easter Egg weekend. Get down with the dinos and head to Rye-Assic Adventure Park. Spot the dinosaur eggs on display and follow the egg-citing trail.

Designed for 1-9 year olds the park features prehistoric creatures from the Cretaceous Period. Search for the eggs hidden amongst the full life-size Brachiosaurus, Stegosaurus and Tyrannosaurus Rex. There are six ‘activity zones’ with rides and games to enjoy. Explore the adventure playground, trampolines, crazy maze, and bouncy castle. Check out the crazy golf, racing boats, water cannon and ‘quadzilla’ electric quad bikes (for 3 years plus). Some of these activities are coin operated. Admission price for the Easter Weekend is only £3.95 per child with adults and under 1s free. To book call 01992 460895 Ext 1.

For more details, to book or to check availability email info@rye-house. co.uk or go to www.ryeassicadventurepark.co.uk.

Lee Valley Park Farms Visit the new arrivals at Lee Valley Park Farms this Easter. Piglets, ducklings and Chicks are all expected! The Farms offer a great family day out with a full calendar of exciting events and activities that all ages will enjoy. There are hundreds of animals to meet, feed and handle. Make friends with the sheep, husky dogs, reindeer, pygmy goats, giant rabbits, rare breed pigs, long-necked llamas and a loveable meerkat family. For more fun there’s a toboggan run and both indoor and outdoor play areas. Fresh tasty food is served at the Orchard Café.

The Farms are the perfect party venue for kids aged 5 and over. The party package includes a unique animal experience, hot and cold party food, balloon animals and party bags. The birthday child receives a Petunia Pig toy.

Special Offer: Enjoy off-peak entry prices until the 4 April. visitleevalley.org.uk / 01992 892 781.

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What’s On: Spring & Easter THEATRE THE ALBAN ARENA Civic Centre, St Albans AL1 3LD 01727 844488 Peter Pan On Ice 19 Mar – 7.30pm 20-23 Mar – 2 & 7.30pm Russian Ice Stars adapt J.M. Barrie’s famous fantasy adventure.

Tickets: £15-£25. Conc £2.50 off Swan Lake 5 Apr – 2.30pm Vienna Festival Ballet Tickets: £22.50. Conc £4 off.

Under 16s £14.50 HAWTHORNE THEATRE Campus West, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX 01707 357117 www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk Cinderella 9 Mar – 2.30pm (family friendly) & 5.30pm (3 yrs+) Vienna Festival Ballet Tickets: £19.50. Conc £16.50 Title Wave 23 Mar – 7pm Live action wrestling family fun!

Tickets: £12. Conc £10 Around the World in 80 Days 9-11 Apr – 2 & 6.30pm Splitz School of Dance & Drama perform a musical adaptation of Jules Verne’s novel.

Tickets: £14. Conc £9. Family £40 Hansel and Gretel 13-15 Apr – 11am & 2.30pm Lighthearted adaptation of the classic Grimm fairytale. Magic, slapstick comedy, singing & puppets.

Tickets: £12. Family £40 HERTFORD THEATRE The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PS 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com The Gruffalo 4 Apr – 1.30 & 4pm 5 & 6 Apr – 10.30am & 1.30pm Tall Stories' hit musical stage adaptation of the award winning picture book. Ages 3+.

Tickets: £11. Family £42 THE WESTON AUDITORIUM University of Hertfordshire, De Havilland Campus, Hatfield AL10 9EU 01707 281127 www.herts.ac.uk/artsandgalleries The Just So Stories 13 Apr – 1.30pm. Workshop: 12.30 & 2.30pm 4 yrs+.

Tickets: £8. Conc £6 Springtime Stories (+ workshop) 15 Apr – 10am, 11am & 2pm 4 yrs+.

Tickets: £8. Conc £6

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WYLLYOTTS THEATRE Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar EN6 2HN 01707 645005 www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk Postman Pat Live 8 Mar – 1 & 3.30pm 3-6 yrs.

Tickets: £12.50. Child £10.50.

Family £43 Bananas in Pyjamas 26 Apr – 1 & 3.30pm All singing, all dancing show.

Audience participation & slapstick fun.

Tickets: £12.50. Child £10.50.

Family £43

DAYS OUT BRITISH SCHOOLS MUSEUM 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin SG4 9TS 01462 420144 www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk Tues 10am-4pm, Sat 10am -1pm, Sun 2-5pm. Plus Weds in Easter school holidays. 1st Sunday of each month features a Victorian lesson at 2.30 & 3.30pm £4.50. Child £2.50. Under 5s free CHURCH FARM Ardeley, Nr Stevenage SG2 7AH 01438 861447 www.churchfarmardeley.com Daily from 9am Feed the animals (£3 per bag).

Woodland play area. Cafe.

FREE entry & parking HATFIELD PARK FARM Hatfield AL9 5NQ 01707 287010 www.hatfield-house.co.uk From 15 Mar. Tues-Sun & Bank Holidays – 10am-5.30pm (Hatfield House, Park & Garden reopen 5 Apr) Traditional breeds. Tractor rides.

Miniature train ride (11am-5pm weekends, bank holidays & school holidays). Adventure play area. £5. 3-15 yrs £2

British Masters Championship 8-9 Mar – 10am-6pm Watch some of the best British Masters compete against each other. FREE Lee Valley Minithon 22 Mar – 12-6pm Athletics competition for school years 3 to 7, offering the chance to take part in 3 different disciplines. Call or enter online. £10 per child Sport Relief Mile 23 Mar from 10.30am Grab your trainers for a one, three or six mile challenge.

Enter at www.sportrelief.com £3-£6 Lee Valley U13 & U15 Pentathlon 30 Mar – 11am-6pm Test your skills over the 5 pentathlon disciplines. Call or enter online. £6 per event. FREE for spectators LEE VALLEY BOATS Broxbourne Riverside Moorings, Nazeing Road, Broxbourne EN10 6LX. (Rail: Broxbourne) To book: 01992 462085 leevalleyboats.co.uk Mother's Day Sunday Lunch Cruise 30 Mar – 12.30-3.30pm Treat someone special to a 3 hour river cruise & 3 course meal along the River Lee. Watch spring erupt on the riverside as you cruise along. £25. Child £13 Mother's Day Cream Tea Cruise 30 Mar – 3-5pm Celebrate Mother's Day with a gentle two hour cruise along the River Lee with a cream tea included. £12.50 per person

HERTFORD CASTLE Castle Street, Hertford SG14 1HR 26 Apr – 12-3pm Theatrical performances, musicians, street performers & more.

LEE VALLEY ICE CENTRE Lea Bridge Road, Leyton, London E10 7QL. (Rail: Clapton) 020 8533 3154 www.visitleevalley.org.uk IJS Solo Dance Competition 3 Mar – 8am-7pm Watch dancers from all over the UK compete in compulsory and free solo dance to qualify for the British Championships. FREE Southern Open IJS Competition 17-20 Mar – 8am-7pm Watch novice, junior & senior skaters compete.

FREE for spectators

LEE VALLEY ATHLETICS CENTRE 61 Meridian Way, Edmonton, London N9 0AR. (Rail: Ponders End or Edmonton Green) 020 8344 7230 www.visitleevalley.org.uk

LEE VALLEY PARK FARMS Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 2EF. (Rail: Cheshunt, 2 mile walk) 01992 892781 www. visitleevalley.org.uk/go/farms

HEARTWOOD FOREST Sandridge 01476 581111 www. heartwoodforest.wordpress.com Tree Planting 15 Mar – 10am-3pm

Petunia's Pick: Mother's Day 30 Mar – 10am-5pm Celebrate all the amazing animal mothers at the farms. Bring Mum in for free! See website for terms & conditions. £5.50. Child £5. Under 2s free LEE VALLEY VELOPARK Abercrombie Road, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London E20 3AB. (Rail: Leyton or Stratford) Revolution Series Finale www.cyclingrevolution.com 14 Mar – 7-10.30pm Finale to the world's premier elite cycling league. International cyclists battle in the velodrome. £15-£45 Sport Relief Cycle www.sportrelief.com 23 Mar from 6.30am Be one of the first to experience the Lee Valley VeloPark in a tough 25 or 50 mile route or a 3 mile family cycle. £5-£35 LEE VALLEY WHITE WATER CENTRE Station Road, Waltham Cross, London EN9 1AB. (Rail: Waltham Cross) Book: www.gbcanoeing. org.uk GB Canoe Slalom Team Selection Event 28-30 Mar – 9am-4pm See the country's best paddlers battle the rapids. Take to the flat water in taster canoe sessions. £2-£8

EASTER ACTIVITIES THE ARK THEATRE The Civic Car Park, Elstree Way, Borehamwood WD6 1WA 020 8238 7288 www.thearktheatre.co.uk Easter Holiday Kids Fun Day 8 Apr – 10am-3.30pm Games, songs & a film screening.

Tickets: £8 CHILTERN OPEN AIR MUSEUM Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, Bucks HP8 4AB 01494 871117 www.coam.org.uk Daily 10am-5pm (last entry 3.30pm) £9.50. Conc £8.50. 4-16 yrs £6.

Under 4s free. Family discounts available. Special event prices may vary Family Fun on the Farm: Meet the Lambs 12-13 Apr Learn about Victorian lambing traditions. Family craft activities.

It's Party Time!

To advertise in the May/June

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020 8428 6384

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What’s On: Spring & Easter Easter Treats 18-21 Apr Historic cooking & familyfriendly crafts.

DOWN THE WOODS Private secret wood near St Albans. Exact details given on booking. 01707 691807 www.downthewoods.org 5 Apr – 10am-12noon or 1-3pm Creating with natural materials, shelter building & cooking. Ages 3-12. (Younger & older children catered for if needed.) Parents & children attend together.

Child £5. Adult £1.50. Includes drink & snack THE FORGOTTEN GARDENS OF EASTON LODGE Little Easton, Essex CM6 2BB www.eastonlodge.co.uk Open Day & Easter Egg Trail 20 Apr – 12-3pm Craft & nature activities.

Refreshments. Guided tours 1 & 3pm. £3.50. Child free. Trail £1. No credit cards FROGMORE PAPER MILL Fourdrinier Way, Apsley, Hemel Hempstead HP3 9RY 01442 234600 www. thepapertrail.org.uk Mon-Fri – 10.30am-4.30pm. 2nd & last Sundays of the month – 11-4pm £6.60. 4-16yrs/Concs £5.50.

Family tickets available Paper Arts & Crafts: Easter 8 Apr – 10am-4pm 5-12 yrs (with adult). Booking essential (peterburford@ thepapertrail.org.uk) £5 per family Easter Crafting Drop-ins Easter holidays, check website for details 3 yrs+ (with adult). Materials provided, untutored. £3 per child. Under 4s free HATFIELD FOREST 01279 870678 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ hatfield-forest Easter Egg Trail 18-21 Apr – 11am-3.30pm Self-guided trail, approx. 45 mins.

Wellies recommended! Meet at gazebo in the lake area, near cafe.

Child £2 HERTS & MIDDLESEX WILDLIFE TRUST Balls Wood, Hertford Heath SG13 7PW 07876 508034 (Susannah) www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk Wild Woodland Skills 12 Apr – 10.30am-12.30pm 6-11 yrs (with adult). Create

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a shelter, build a fire & make camp-fire food. Book in advance.

(No toilets on site.)

FREE. Suggested minimum donation £3 A Springy Easter Adventure!

16 Apr – 10.30am-12.30pm 5-10 yrs (with adult). Games, woodland crafts & egg hunt.

Book in advance. (No toilets on site.)

FREE. Suggested minimum donation £3 HIGHFIELD PARK Meet at West Lodge, Hill End Lane opposite Frobisher Rd, St Albans AL4 0RA 1727 847242 www.highfieldparktrust.co.uk Easter Bunny Hunt 9 Apr – 10.30am-2.30pm Bring a picnic & relax in the park.

Colouring competition. £2 KNEBWORTH HOUSE Knebworth SG3 6PY (Sat Nav: SG1 2AX) 01438 812661 www.knebworthhouse.com Entrance includes Park & Gardens with Dinosaur Trail & Adventure Playground.

Easter Trail 18 & 19 Apr £9 plus £1 trail sheet. Family £32. Under 4s free Jousting 20 & 21 Apr – approx 12.30 & 2.30pm Costumed knights on majestic warhorses. Fantastic display of horsemanship & hand to hand combat. £9. Family £32. Under 4s free LEE VALLEY BOATS Broxbourne Riverside Moorings, Nazeing Road, Broxbourne EN10 6LX. (Rail: Broxbourne) To book: 01992 462085 leevalleyboats.co.uk Easter Sunday Lunch Cruise 20 Apr – 12.30-3.30pm Relax with a 3 hour cruise & roast dinner whilst viewing the delights of the countryside from the river. £25. Child £13 LEE VALLEY PARK FARMS Stubbins Hall Lane, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 2EF. (Rail: Cheshunt, 2 mile walk) 01992 892781 www. visitleevalley.org.uk/go/farms Spring-tastic Farm Fun 5-21 Apr – 10am-5pm Spring is in the air & the baby boom has begun. Meet the chicks, spring lambs & enjoy lots of seasonal activities around the farmyard as well as some of the old favourites. £9. Child £8. Under 2s free

Petunia's Pick: Easter Eggstravaganza 18-21 Apr – 10am-5pm Eggscellent Easter fun & annual Easter egg hunt. £9. Child £8. Under 2s free

Essex EN9 1AB. (Rail: Waltham Cross or Cheshunt) 20-21 Apr – 10am-5pm Fun-packed country show.

Tickets: www.oakleighfairs.co.uk £3-£7.50

LEIGHTON BUZZARD RAILWAY Pages Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard LU7 4TN 01525 373888 www.buzzrail.co.uk Meet the Easter Bunny 20 & 21 Apr. Departures every 50 mins 10.40am-3.40pm 70 mins round trip. £9.50. Senior £8. 2-15 yrs £5.50.

Under 2s free. Family 10% discount

ROLLERCITY Campus West, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BX 01707 357117 www.rollercity.co.uk Easter Holiday Skates 5-21 April – 1-2.30pm & 3-4.30pm All ages. Advance booking strongly recommended. £5.25. £6.75 with skate hire

LOWEWOOD MUSEUM High Street, Hoddesdon EN11 8BH 01992 445596 www.broxbourne.gov.uk Family Fun 10 & 17 Apr – 12-3pm. Drop in.

Family crafts.

FREE Easter Egg Hunt 19 Apr – 11am-4pm Follow trails around the museum.

FREE MEAD OPEN FARM Stanbridge Road, Billington Bedfordshire LU7 9JH 01525 852954 www.meadopenfarm.co.uk £10.25. Senior £9.50. 2-16 yrs £9.25. Under 2s free. Online & off peak discounts available Easter Bunny Bonanza!

5-21 Apr – 10am-6.30pm Earn a chocolate treat in the new Hoppy's Hamlet! Meet Easter chicks & newborn lambs. Help bottle feed the older lambs.

Visit from Peppa Pig 26 Apr MILL GREEN MILL & MUSEUM Mill Green, Hatfield AL9 5PD 01707 357850 www.welhat.gov.uk/museum Easter Holiday Workshops Ages 4+. See website for details. £3 per child PARADISE WILDLIFE PARK White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne EN10 7QA 01992 470490 www.pwpark.com Daily 9.30am-6pm Easter EGGstravaganza 5-21 Apr Easter Bunny stage show. Easter trail. Stroke a real live bunny!

See website for prices RIVER LEE COUNTRY PARK Easter Country Fair Showground, Highbridge St, Waltham Abbey,

SHEPRETH WILDLIFE PARK Station Road, Shepreth, nr Royston SG8 6PZ 01763 262226 www.sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk Easter Egg Hunt 18-21 Apr Normal admission applies: £10.95. Child/Conc £8.95. Under 2s free WILLOWS FARM VILLAGE Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans AL4 0PF 0870 129 9718 www.willowsfarmvillage.com Easter Eggstravaganza 5-21 Apr – 10am-5.30pm Shake your bunny tail with the Easter Bunny as he guides you through the Bunny Hop. Egg hunt. Fluffy chicks & bunnies.

Plus tractor ride, indoor play barn, Little Learners JCB area & Toddler Town.

Adult £13.99. Child £13.99 WICK WOOD Marshals Drive, St Albans AL1 4RE 01727 864871 (Pam Farley) www.woodlandtrust.org.uk Woodland Trust Easter Egg Hunt 19 Apr – 10am-12noon Collect 5 tokens & exchange them for a modest chocky treat.

Toddlers to early teens.

50p WIMPOLE ESTATE Arrington, Royston SG8 0BW 01223 206000 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ wimpole-estate Easter Egg Trail at Home Farm 5-21 Apr – 10.30am-4.15pm Solve the clues and win a chocolate treat. £9. Child £5.80. Family £26.20.

Discounts for National Trust Members. Plus £2 for trail booklet

WOODSIDE ANIMAL FARM Slip End Village, Luton LU1 4DG 01582 841044 www.woodsidefarm.co.uk Easter Fun Hands on sessions including the Easter chicks. See the newborn lambs; ride the tractor; Easter bunny treasure hunt & funfair rides.

EASTER HOLIDAY CAMPS & COURSES BARRACUDAS ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS Various locations in Herts 0845 123 5299 www.barracudas.co.uk Multi-activity day camp for ages 4½ -16.

Whole weeks or individual days.

See website for cost details BERKHAMSTED BASECAMP Berkhamsted School 01442 358115 www.berkhamstedbasecamp. co.uk Multi Activity Camp 9.30am-4.30pm. Wraparound options 7.30am-6.30pm at £5 per hour Ages 4-11.

7-11 Apr: £30.50 per day, £137 per week. 14-17 Apr: £30.50 per day, £122 per week. 22 Apr: £30.50 Mini BASECAMP 9.30am-1pm. Wraparound option from 7.30am at £5 per hour 3-5 yrs. Range of activities, largely arts & crafts. Swimming option. £15.25 per day Tennis 1.30- 4.30pm. Wraparound option until 6.30pm at £5 per hour 4-15 yrs.

7-11 Apr: £25 per day, £100 per week. 14-17 Apr: £25 per day, £80 per week Young String Ensemble Mornings 8 & 9 Apr – 9.30am-12.30pm Violin, viola, cello or double bass players aged 7-13 (approx pre grade 1 to grade 4). £37.50 per day. Morning wraparound option from 7.30am at £5 per hour BEST THEATRE ARTS Sandringham School, The Ridgeway, St Albans AL4 9NX 01727 759634 www.besttheatrearts.com Best Holiday Academy: Nightmare Before Easter

7-11 Apr Theatre fun for ages 6-16. £160 per week. Sibling £130 First Class Holiday: Matilda 7-11 Apr – 9.45am-12.15pm Singing, dancing, acting & even craft for 4-6 yrs. £130 per week. Sibling £110 COURTYARD ARTS CENTRE Port Vale, Hertford SG14 3AA 07818 423743 www.courtyardarts.org.uk Art Workshops for Children 8-10 Apr 5 yrs+. Art, craft & clay workshops, some with an Easter theme.

From £10 DOWN THE WOODS 01707 691807 www.downthewoods.org Wild in the Woods Play Scheme Woodland games, camp building, natural crafts & cooking on an open fire. See website for dates & locations.

10-3pm £25. 10-12pm or 1-3pm £10 GOSLING SPORTS PARK Stanborough Road, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6XE 01707 384307 bookings@goslingsports.co.uk www.goslingsports.co.uk Tots Tennis Holiday Sessions Info: Julie Spink 07787 772393 8, 10, 15 & 17 Apr – 9.15-10am 2-5 yrs. £5 per session HERTS YOUNG MARINERS BASE Windmill Lane, Cheshunt EN8 9AJ 01992 628403 www.hymb.com 9-18 yrs. No experience necessary.

Annual Junior Membership £5 Holiday Activities 7-11 & 14-17 Apr – 9.30am-12noon & 1-3.30pm 7th: Climbing (am), Archery (pm); 8th: Caving (am), Kayaking (pm); 9th: Archery (am), Fencing (pm); 10th: Climbing (am), Canoeing (pm); 11th: Bush Craft (am), Raft Building (pm); 14th: Climbing (am) Canoeing (pm); 15th: Caving (am), Raft Building (pm); 16th: Kayaking (am), Climbing (pm); 17th: Sailing (am), Caving (pm) Half day £25. Full day £50 (£23/ £46 if booked online) Beginners Sailing 7 & 8 Apr – 9.30am-4pm 2 days £85 Introduction to BCU Paddlesport

7 or 14 Apr – 9.30am-4pm Canoe, kayak & bell boat.

1 day £46 Beginners Climbing 17 & 18 Apr – 9.30am-4pm 2 days £85

Small Ads Parties

KOOL KIDZ CAMPS St John Fisher School, Hazelmere School, St Albans AL4 9RW 0845 603 2858 www.koolkidzgroup.co.uk 7-11 & 14-17 Apr Ages 4-12. Half or full days.

See website for prices LEE VALLEY ATHLETICS CENTRE Meridian Way, Edmonton, London N9 0AR. (Rail: Ponders End or Edmonton Green) 020 8344 7230 visitleevalley.org.uk/athletics Star Track 8-12 yrs: 7-11 Apr – 10am-2pm 6-8 yrs: 8-10 Apr – 2.30-5pm Expert tuition in athletics skills from javelin to long jump.

8-12 yrs: £58 if booked up to 7 days in advance, £68 thereafter.

6-8 yrs: £29 SPORTSPACE HEMEL HEMPSTEAD Park Road, Hemel Hempstead HP1 1JS 01442 507100 www.sportspace.co.uk Fit Squad 9 & 16 Apr – 1-4pm 8-12 yrs. Includes fitness work out, pool inflatable session & refreshments. £9.90. Members £8 Active Bunnies 9 & 16 Apr – 1-4pm 5-7 yrs. Includes bouncy castle, wacky relays, face paints & refreshments. £9.90. Members £8 Dinky Ducks 9 & 16 Apr – 1.30-3.30pm 3-4 years. Includes messy play, arts & crafts, face paints & refreshments. £7.30. Members £5.40 SUPER CAMPS Multi Activity Camps Venues in Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, Letchworth & Rickmansworth 01235 467300 www.supercamps.co.uk 9am-5pm. 8am-6pm can be arranged.

4-14 yrs. (3-12 yrs at Hemel venue) 4 day week £136. 5 day week £170. £42 per day Raw Adventure Camp Westbrook Hay Prep School, London Road, Hemel Hempstead HP1 2RF

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Tutors

7-11 Apr 7-14 yrs. Survive & thrive in the outdoors. £185 TICK TOCK 07933 153054 www.ticktockmusic.co.uk 7 Apr – 9.30am St Stephen Parish Centre, Station Rd, Bricket Wood AL2 3PJ 9 & 16 Apr – 9.45am Thunder Base (Scout Hut), Oak Yard, Chene Drive AL3 5QP Book & pay for in advance.

1 child £6. Sibling 6 mths-1 yr £2. Sibling over 1 yr £3.50. Twins under 1 yr £7.50. Twins over 1 yr £9 WILLOWS FARM VILLAGE ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans AL4 0PF 01908 209217 3-12 yrs. Exclusive play rooms plus all the fun of Willows Farm Village.

Standard daily charge £43 (includes meals & snacks). Early & late clubs extra £3 each.

Discounts available.

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What’s On

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