IN THIS ISSUE
COMPETITIONS! YOUR CHANCE TO WIN: • A FAMILY HOLIDAY • EASTER PANTOMIME TICKETS • BOOK BUNDLE PLUS: WHAT’S ON SWIMMING LESSONS GUIDE
EASTER
EGG-STRAVAGANZA
Easter Egg Hunt, Bottle Feed Lambs, Lambing Live, 4– Baby Animals, Sat 19 n u S il Magic Hatter Apr Easter Shows, Boo & all the usual Discou k n farm park fun. Ticketsted PIGLETS, NR YORK YO32 9ST TEL 01904 499183 PIGLETSADVENTUREFARM.COM
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Issue 69 March/April 2020
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Nurture, Learn, Develop, Grow…
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It is never too soon to start their learning journey.
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Saturday 25th April, 10:00am – 12 noon An independent preparatory school for children aged 3-11 Richmond House School, 170 Otley Road, Leeds, LS16 5LG 0113 275 2670
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CONTENTS…
To advertise in this magazine please call 07799 667 041 or email editor@familiesleeds.co.uk CIRCULATION: We distribute 25,000 copies of the magazine free of charge through schools, nurseries, playgroups, clubs and classes, selected retail outlets and sports centres. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know. DESIGNED BY: Justin Leeming • 07745 038 005 www.justinleeming.crevado.com PRINTED BY: Charlesworth Press, Wakefield www.charlesworth.com Families Leeds is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Leeds are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Leeds. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Leeds Ltd; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
The winner of our Ice Cube Ticket competition was Colette Howes. Congratulations to her and thank you to all who entered. The winner of our Ross Welford book bundle competition will be announced in the next issue.
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NEWS
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DIVE IN! Where to start with swimming lessons
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FAMILIES TOP FIVE Our pick of theatre, galleries and museums this spring
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FABULOUS FAMILY BOOK QUIZ Your chance to win a super book bundle
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HEALTHIER EASTER COOKIES A fun and yummy recipe
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WHAT’S ON? Events and activities for families in March and April
Welcome back...
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I hope you have all enjoyed preparing for World Book Day? Does that sound like a slightly facetious question? Much as we all acknowledge the importance of sharing a love of books and reading with our children, I’ll have to be honest and say I don’t know too many parents who exclaim “Hurrah! World Book Day is coming up, my favourite time of the year!” The stress, anxiety, and down-right sick-inducing guilt the event can evoke is quite startling. For the children, it is a fun celebration of their favourite stories and characters. For their carers, it can be a test of creativity, tinfoil reserves and a general commitment to education that is just not what you need in the middle of a working week. So, for anyone feeling slightly deflated, here’s a World Book Day activity I think you should do, courtesy of Families Magazine. On page 10 we have a family book quiz, with sections for age categories 4 to 7 and 8 to 11. But forget that for now. Before the kids have a go, put your feet up with a cup of tea and do the quiz yourself. Because if anyone can name three fruits the hungry caterpillar ate, you can. If anyone is familiar with Biff and Chip’s canine companion, it’s you. Give yourself a high five; you have totally smashed it. Happy World Book Day! Claire Bottomley (Editor)
Families Leeds 3
Families NEWS… WIN A FAMILY HOLIDAY! Here’s your chance to win an Away Resort holiday of your Choice!* Just take part in Wear a Hat Day on March 27 to raise money for Brain Tumour Research. Away Resorts offers family holidays at award-winning holiday parks, each superbly located and unique. Mill Rythe on Hayling Island offers a holiday jam-packed with activities from zorbing to an outdoor high ropes course, plus daytime and evening entertainment. Sandy Balls in the New Forest gets you back to nature; delve into the forest with its resident alpacas, enjoy a serene spa, fantastic on-site restaurants, and an array of activities including cycling and swimming. Tattershall Lakes in Lincolnshire is a water world away. From fishing and pedalos to jet-skiing and a water aqua park, there are fabulous on-site restaurants, rooftop bars, indoor/outdoor splashpads and activity programmes for all. Whitecliff Bay on the Isle of Wight offers the perfect balance, with rolling countryside on one side and a beautiful sandy beach on the other. The park bustles with great on-site activities to keep your family busy.
JOIN THE FIGHT AGAINST PLASTIC WITH THE GREAT BRITISH SPRING CLEAN
TO ENTER: 1. Register for Wear a Hat Day 2020 at www.wearahatday.org and take part on March 27. 2. Email your competition entry to info@familiesmagazine.co.uk with your full name and post code or enter online at https://bit.ly/2OytS6D by April 30 2020. Use the same email address, name and post code for both steps 1 and 2. T&Cs: *Excludes Mersea Island Holiday Park and Barmouth Bay Holiday Park. Prize is for a seven-night stay for two adults and two children. Accommodation provided will be of Superior or Luxury grade at Sandy Balls, Tattershall Lakes and Whitecliff Bay, and Ambassador at Mill Rythe, subject to availability. Prize value will be dependent on location and time of year chosen. More T&Cs online.
Wherever you live, you and your family can make a difference to your local environment by sparing just a few hours to take part in the Great British Spring Clean from March 20 to April 13. Run by the charity Keep Britain Tidy, this initiative is the country’s biggest mass-action environmental campaign and aims to get 600,000 #LitterHeroes out and about, cleaning up the environment on their doorstep. It’s easy for families to get involved. Simply pledge to take part and either organise a litter-pick in your community or join an organised event. To find out more, join a local event, register to take part and access resources including a how-to guide, visit www.keepbritaintidy.org/GBSpringClean
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WIN EASTER PANTOMIME TICKETS! Puss in Boots at the Victoria Theatre Halifax promises to be the Purr-fect Easter Treat, and we have a family ticket for four people to give away! Starring Suzanne Shaw (Hearsay and Dancing on Ice) and CBeebies’ star Chris Jarvis, this production will feature all the usual panto trimmings: stunning scenery and costumes, spectacular song and dance routines and bags of slapstick fun. The winner will be able to take their family to see the show on either April 15, 16 or 17. To be in with a chance to win, send an email with the words EASTER PANTO in the title to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk by March 31. For more information visit www.victoriatheatre.co.uk
HAVE YOUR SAY ON CHANGES TO MATERNITY SERVICES IN LEEDS Two new hospitals are planned to be built at Leeds General Infirmary (LGI), which will include some changes to Maternity Services in the city. As part of the process, the Leeds NHS Clinical Commissioning Group wants your comments and opinions on those changes. There are several ways you can get involved. You can complete a survey on line at www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/maternityVAL. You can also go to drop-in sessions at Pudsey Civic Hall, Dawsons Corner, Pudsey, Leeds, LS28 5TA on March 3, 9am-1pm, or at the Carriageworks Auditorium, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD, on March 11, 4pm-8pm. Midwives, consultants and maternity staff from local hospitals will be attending these sessions.
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PERSONALISED PRINTS MAKE THE PERFECT GIFT FOR MOTHERS DAY – OR ANY DAY! Two Leeds mums who met on the school run have set up a unique business creating personalised gifts that are guaranteed to be everyone’s cup of tea. “During a coffee and a catch up, we realised that drinks bring people together,” explained fine artist Louisa Smedley. Together, she and Tracey Cosstick began making personalised prints for friends’ birthdays and special occasions – incorporating their favourite tipple. “We realised it was something we loved doing, and luckily our friends loved our prints too!” said Louisa. And so Roary and Buddy – named after Louisa and Tracey’s dogs – was born. “Whether it’s a coffee with work mates, cocktails on a night out with the girls or a beer with the boys, drinks connect people,” Louisa added. “Family gatherings, quiet nights in, holidays, weddings, anniversaries, Christmas, special occasions, any occasion! That was the inspiration behind Roary and Buddy.” Roary and Buddy offers a wide range of designs. In time for Mothers Day, they have branched out into creating beautiful personalised flower prints. If you are interested in commissioning Roary and Buddy to create something for you, visit www.roaryandbuddy.co.uk 10% DISCOUNT when you enter the code FAMILIES.
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CLUBS & CLASSES
TAKE TO THE WATER! Whilst swimming should be fun for children, learning to do it could save their lives, so making sure they do learn is important. Here are some points to consider when helping your children along the path to competence – and confidence – in the water. SELF-TEACHING Most children love going to the pool, and with persistence from you and practice by them, they should learn to float and doggy paddle well enough to get out of trouble. However, if you lack the time or confidence to do this, and if you’d like them to learn to dive and swim length after length, you will need to think about booking some lessons. WHAT IS AVAILABLE? In this area we are very lucky to have a range of providers, including • local authority pools • private gyms • swim schools • one-to-one tuition Ask around, get recommendations and see what availability there is – it may be that you need to get on a waiting list. WHAT TO LOOK FOR: • Most lessons last around 30 minutes and children should be as active as possible throughout this time. • Children need to have the opportunity to progress with their swimming as they improve. A good school will provide the facility for your child to swim right through from infant to competitive standard. Check whether the school is using a syllabus like the Swim England Learn to Swim Programme, which is designed to help teachers deliver swimming lessons for all ages to a high and consistent standard. • It’s generally accepted that smaller is better. Swim England recommends no more than 12 learners to one teacher during a lesson, and groups are often smaller than this. For more information, visit www.swimming.org SPLISH SPLOSH SWIMMING SCHOOL offers fun and effective lessons for all ages and abilities At Splish Splosh, the fun and friendly teachers teach in the pool. Classes are taught to a maximum of eight children, ensuring good progress for pupils. It also gives a sense of comfort to the nervous ones who might be taking to the water for the first time. Working in the water, the teachers can communicate directly with the children and can demonstrate easily the practices that need to be mastered. Classes are available at The Grammar School at Leeds, Temple Moor High School, in Leeds and Moorlands School in Leeds. For more information, visit www.splishsploshswimmingschool.net
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Book swimming lessons for your little ones with BABY SWIMMERS Baby Swimmers teaches babies and toddlers from six weeks across West Yorkshire. It also teaches older children up to teens through its Swimmers Academy, whatever their ability. The structured classes follow the STA’s International Learn to Swim programme, with little ones soon gaining confidence in the water as they build a foundation to help them swim unaided in the future. Baby Swimmers also teaches vital water safety skills so they can learn to swim back to the side, hold on and climb out of the pool when they’re strong enough. Toddlers will start to learn the basic swim strokes, as well as continue with water safety skills; and for older swimmers who are confident in the water, the focus is on stroke technique, stamina and survival skills, including lifesaving awards. “Our fully-qualified, incredibly talented and passionate teachers are committed to ensuring children learn to be happy, confident and safe in the water,” said Tracie Margo who runs Baby Swimmers. “All our classes are child-led to ensure little ones are taught and develop at their own pace. whatever a child’s age or ability, from complete beginners through to advanced, we’re always happy to teach them.” For more information, visit www.babyswimmers.co.uk
CELEBRATION DANCE AT MUSIC BUGS Vicky Bannister, who runs MUSIC BUGS LEEDS has been named ‘Franchisee of the Year’ by the company. Vicky was given the accolade in recognition of business excellence and outstanding contribution over the last 12 months. Vicky said,“This really means a lot to win this award. I could not do it without my brilliant class leader Beccy, the support from Head Office, my fellow franchisees and all our wonderful families that attend. So, so happy!”
ANYONE FOR ALL STARS CRICKET? ALL STARS CRICKET is a programme aimed at children aged five to eight years old to give them a great first experience in cricket. Sessions are accredited by the England and Wales Cricket Board and delivered nationwide at over 2,000 centres. All Stars Cricket help children develop key skills in a fun and safe environment where parents can join in too and create #BigMoments to treasure. Following registration, All Stars Cricketers will receive a kit bag full of goodies to help them get their summer of cricket started and look the part when they attend their eight weekly sessions. To find out more about how to get involved this summer, visit www.allstarscricket.co.uk sessions begin in May.
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Families Leeds 7
PICTURE CROSSWORD
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8 Families Leeds
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Families Top Five for March & April! Our pick of things to see and do with the family in West Yorkshire this spring…
THE LOST HAPPY ENDINGS: Leeds Playhouse, March 27 & 28
LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD: St George’s Hall Bradford, April 9
Deep in the forest lives a magical girl named Jub. Her job is to guard the Happy Endings to stories and fairytales. But one day a witch steals them, and the stories are destroyed. An original story by Carol Ann Duffy, beautifully retold as dance theatre for family, narrated by Joanna Lumley and presented by balletLORENT. www.leedsplayhouse.org.uk
The newest children’s production by Northern Ballet. Adapted from the classic fairytale, it tells the story of a little girl who comes across a very hungry wolf in the forest. But is he really such a big, bad wolf? This child friendly 40 minute ballet follows their adventure as they meet friends and discover the importance of kindness. It has been created especially for children and their families to experience live dance, music and theatre together. Little Red Riding Hood follows in the footsteps of the company’s six previous children’s ballets, which have achieved huge popularity live on stage, in CBeebies TV adaptations and in cinemas nationwide. www.bradfordtheatres.co.uk
PUSS IN BOOTS THE EASTER PANTO: Victoria Theatre Halifax, April 15–17 DRAWN FROM THE PITS: National Coal Mining Museum in Wakefield, from April 4 A new exhibition with interactive activities to help you explore the work of some very special artists. From the dark depths of the British mines a group of luminary artists emerged, depicting lives of mining communities in ways that could be compared to the likes of Picasso and Lowry. See how their experiences in the mine influenced their artwork, understand why they took to art and what role it played in their lives. Play with interactive displays to mix colours, create artworks in confined spaces and make your own work of art. www.ncm.org.uk
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Easter time is pantomime time – oh yes it is! At least at the Victoria Theatre Halifax it is. This fun-packed production, with fabulous scenery, costumes, songs, dances and slapstick comedy will entertain the whole family. Starring Suzanne Shaw from Hearsay and Dancing on Ice, and CBeebies’ Chris Jarvis, it’s an Easter treat not to be missed. Turn to page 5 to see how to enter our competition and win a family ticket to the show! www.victoriatheatre.co.uk
EASTER WEEKEND: Harewood House in Leeds, April 10–13 Lots of activities taking place, including the Great Easter Egg Hunt across the grounds, live music in the courtyard and cookery demonstrations below stairs in the fascinating Victorian kitchen. Have a look around the house and visit the bird garden, which is celebrating 50 years, to see elegant flamingos, beloved penguins and a new walk-through aviary where small birds such as zebra finches and wild budgies fly freely. www.harewood.org Families Leeds 9
BOOK QUIZ
FABULOUS FAMILIES BOOK QUIZ & COMPETITION Encourage your child to have a go! With World Book Day having just passed, you and your child may have been thinking quite a bit about books and reading already this Spring. So, now’s the perfect time to test your knowledge! Families has teamed up with Young Writers to bring you this quiz, divided into two sections for ages 4 to 7 and ages 8 to 11. We have a £50 National Book Voucher for the winner of the ages 4 to 7 category. Thanks to Young Writers, we have a fantastic book bundle of 10 books for the winner of the ages 8 to 11 category, including popular, recently published books such as You Won’t Believe This by Adam Baron, Agatha Oddly Murder at the Museum by Lena Jones and What’s that in Dog Years? by Ben Davis. To enter the competition, just email info@familiesmagazine.co.uk with your child’s name, age, your telephone number and answers to the questions in the relevant section. Closing date April 30 2020. Only one entry per child please! Look out for the answers to the quiz in our next magazine or request them in your email entry. Ts&Cs online.
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AGES 4 – 7 YEARS 1. Name three fruits the Hungry Caterpillar ate. 2. In the Charlie and Lola books, what is Lola’s invisible friend called? 3. Which book series do the characters Bottomley Potts and Blitzer Maloney feature in? 4. Which animal visits Sophie and her mummy one tea time? 5. Who wrote Where the Wild Things Are? 6. Who was there ‘Room on the Broom’ for? 7. What is the name of the boy who builds The Snowman? 8. What is the name of Biff and Chip’s dog? 9. Who lives in Hundred Acre Wood? 10. Aliens, pirates and dinosaurs love these… 11. Who is Perfect Peter’s rather naughty brother? 12. What are the names of the witch and cat Valerie Thomas writes about?
AGES 8 – 11 YEARS 1. Where do Silky, Moon Face and Saucepan Man live? 2. How is Stanley Lambchop better known? 3. Who is the main character in Diary of Wimpy Kid? 4. Who does Barney meet when exploring an old chalk pit? 5. In the book Holes, who gets sent to Camp Green Lake Juvenile Detention Centre? 6. Who wrote about characters called James, Matilda, Sophie and Charlie? 7. Which David Walliams’ book is his character Joe from? 8. What are Mary Norton’s tiny characters called? 9. Who is the main character in The Bed and Breakfast Star by Jacqueline Wilson? 10. In which book series does Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III appear? 11. The dormouse, a gryphon, a mock turtle and a rabbit are characters from which classic children’s book? 12. Who wrote My Brother’s Famous Bottom book series? Young Writers organise poetry and creative writing competitions for children in schools. For further information, visit www.youngwriters.co.uk
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Healthier Easter Cookies These are easy to make, with plenty of opportunities for the kids to get involved with mashing, measuring and mixing. They’re made healthier with the use of bananas and oats, but still offer the satisfying chocolate hit we all love! Makes 12 • Prep Time: 10 minutes • Cooking Time: 12 mins INGREDIENTS: 2 bananas 3 tbsp maple syrup 2 tbsp cocoa 150g rolled oats 80g chocolate mini eggs
You’ll find more great recipe ideas in Get Your Kids to Eat Anything by Emily Leary (www.amummytoo.co.uk), published by Mitchell Beazley, RRP £16.99 and available online and in all good bookshops.
INSTRUCTIONS:
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Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F), 180°C fan, Gas Mark 6. Line a couple of baking trays with baking paper. Peel the bananas and place in the bowl.
Divide the mixture into 12 (about 2 level tablespoons each) and roll into balls. Place them on the baking trays.
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Mash the bananas then add the maple syrup and mix well.
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Stir in the cocoa and oats until evenly combined.
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Press a teaspoon into the centre of each cookie to create a nest shape.
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Bake for 12 minutes, then cool on a wire rack. Add a couple of chocolate mini eggs to the centre of each cookie.
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EDUCATION
OPEN DOORS AT FULNECK SCHOOL FULNECK SCHOOL is opening its doors to prospective pupils and their parents on Wednesday, April 29. It is renowned as an inclusive school based in the heart of Pudsey, where each and every child is nurtured and supported as an individual to maximise their potential, whatever their academic ability may be. Fulneck's strengths are Maths and Science. The Physics department has received European funding for a Seismology project, and is leading the way in finding new techniques and resources. Fulneck’s Learning Support Unit has been awarded the highest special learning needs accolades by CReSTeD (Council for the Registration of Schools Teaching Dyslexic Pupils). As a category DU registered School offering a Dyslexia Unit, Fulneck School offers specialist one-to-one tuition within the school as well as support for dyslexic students in all areas of the curriculum. Many of the dyslexic pupils progress through the Junior and Senior School and obtain excellent GCSE and A Level results, before moving on to a wide range of careers and Higher Education.
To register for the event, contact the admissions team on 0113 257 0235.
IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO ENCOURAGE A HEALTHY MIND Rebecca Vernon, Head of Wellbeing at WOODHOUSE GROVE SCHOOL, explains how children’s mental health and wellbeing have come into focus within education… Over the last five years, the importance of pupil wellbeing has gathered momentum, and rightly so. The education sector collectively recognised the need to become more proactive and incorporate wellbeing programmes from the very beginning of school life. A whole school approach to improve wellbeing is preferable. A robust Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (usually shortened to PSHEE) programme that focuses on how mental health is as important as physical health is the key, and is imperative for reducing the stigma attached to mental health. Processes can be put in place to track pupil wellbeing, to identify changes in behaviour or to highlight concerns about individuals or groups of students, including those who are identified as disadvantaged. Intervention strategies can then be introduced to support any mental health concerns.
Nurturing
CREATIVITY
Children’s Classes • School Workshops Teacher Training HORSFORTH, BRIGHOUSE & NORTHOWRAM northernartsfactory.co.uk ge ntouch@northerartsfactory.co.uk Telephone 07747 105 277 or 07590 820 920
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The key focus in younger children is to try and prevent the stress before it becomes embedded. Teaching and learning practices which promote resilience, perseverance, collaboration and curiosity can encourage a ‘Growth Mindset’ which can hugely improve a pupil’s self-esteem. Practices such as being realistic with praise; celebrating effort and not just outcomes; encouraging curiosity about the world around them; teaching children healthy self-talk and providing opportunities for independence are all tools to be embraced. Encourage your child to try new activities and explain that struggle and failure are all part of the journey to success. It is often useful to share instances when you too have needed perseverance and grit to accomplish a difficult task. A number of tools that schools use to support their pupils include; n Trained wellbeing staff, enabling early intervention and offering 1:1 therapy sessions n Pupil led support groups, such as Chat clubs, buddy systems and anti-bullying ambassadors n Collaboration and enhanced relationships with external agencies, and n Growing parental awareness, helping them to understand what it’s like being a child in a constantly changing world. Encouraging a healthy mind from the offset is very important and should be an area you explore when considering which school is best suited to your child. Woodhouse Grove was the first independent school in England to obtain the Optimus Wellbeing Award, developed in partnership with the National Children’s Bureau. familiesonline.co.uk
EDUCATION
THE MOORLANDS WAY MOORLANDS SCHOOL in Leeds is holding an Open Morning on Wednesday, April 22, with a few places remaining for Nursery and Reception in September 2020. Headteacher Jacqueline Atkinson said, “The Moorlands School motto ‘Intrepide!’ or ‘Be Brave!’ starts in the Early Years, where we encourage pupils to explore new opportunities. “Right from the Early Years, Moorlands’ pupils experience specialist teaching for French, music and drama – something that makes our school special, as does our swimming pool and beautiful grounds.” She added, “We are family-focused. From Reception (starting the term after they turn five) pupils are offered wrap-around care and clubs from 7.30am to 6pm, at no extra cost. During the holidays, Camp Xplode is even more fun than it sounds!” For more information or to register for the Open Morning, visit www.moorlands-school.co.uk.
CLASS ACT Roundhay School in Leeds has been awarded World Class School status. The quality mark is given to non-selective state schools judged to offer the best education in the UK. The school has joined a list of around 100 schools nationally to receive the award by World Class Schools’ Quality Mark (WCSQM). A limited number of schools are shortlisted every year and each must have been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted to qualify.
RAISING GIRLS OF THE FUTURE Headteacher of WAKEFIELD GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL, Heidi-Jayne Boyes, talks about how to help girls be their best selves… As parents, we wish for our daughters to thrive in our everchanging world. It’s natural for parents to want to set their daughter up for success – and encouraging independence from a very early age will open up a world of self-discovery and confidence. But parents can also encourage self-reflection and provide guidance and support – this is a great way to help girls develop their own voice and learn. Helping girls become persistent and resilient in the face of difficulties is another great way parents can make a difference. Encouraging competitive and collaborative activities that involve teamwork, creative and critical thinking – like sports, Guides and Scouts, clubs and challenging academic classes – are great ways to do this while also developing confidence and grit. An all girls’ school environment is another great way for parents to support their daughters. Girls’ schools champion the education needs of girls, capitalising on how they learn best. An all-girls environment is not about the absence of boys but rather the girls taking centre stage and occupying every role, including those such as Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, where girls typically are underrepresented. Girls explore, discover and grow strong – developing abilities, self-confidence and skills needed to get ready
for life and take on challenges in our ever-changing world. This is very empowering and helps create a culture of achievement across all areas. It’s such an exciting time for today’s girls – as tomorrow’s women, they will step into more roles of their choice, influence, respect and power. Read more at Heidi’s blog at Wakefield Girls’ High School: www.wgsf.org.uk/wghs-senior
Swimmers Academy & Baby Swimmers
Swimmers Academy
Climbing and café 2 ½ years to adult Groups e.g. Scouts, School Trips / PE, Special Needs Sessions, Team Building Parties with or without food
Booking essential: www.clipnclimbilkley.co.uk or call: 01943 603 829
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Beginners through to Advanced, whatever their age and ability Survival skills, stamina and stroke techniques.
Baby Swimmers
Through fun and games,see your little one progress to a confident little swimmer! Free Phone 0808 1 33 44 55 Mobile Friendly 0333 8008 345
www.babyswimmers.co.uk
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WHAT’S ON? Have you got an event you’d like us to list? Email our What’s On editor, Lisa Ross, at lisa@familiesleeds.co.uk We took every care in preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times change. Please double check with the organiser to avoid disappointment.
PIGLETS ADVENTURE FARM
British Science Week: Family Activities Eureka! – March 7 & 8 Discovery Road, Halifax, HX1 2NE 01422 330069 www.eureka.org.uk There’ll be various drop-in family activities. Contact Eureka! for more information. Rory’s Tiger Club at Leeds City Museum – Saturdays until April 25 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Looking for something creative to do with kids in the city? Head down to Leeds City Museum for craft sessions for families. 11am to 12.45pm. The Girl Who Wrote a Book at Carriageworks Theatre – March 8 The Electric Press, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD 0113 376 0318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk Ava goes to college where the fight started. Inspired by the day of the fight and her idols of famous female writers, Ava writes a story. Created especially for Leeds Lit Fest 2020, The Girl Who Wrote A Book is an original production written, produced and performed by the Senior Young Theatre Makers. 2pm and 7.30pm.
The Forgotten Showman at the The National Science & Media Museum – Daily until March 29 Pictureville, Bradford, BD1 1NQ www.scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk Discover how Robert Paul, the forgotten pioneer of cinematography, invented British cinema. Shapeshift at Eureka! – Daily exc Mondays Discovery Road, Halifax, HX1 2NE 01422 330 069 www.eureka.org.uk Experience Shapeshift - Interactive tech that reacts to your movement. The latest digital exhibition taking over the first floor of the Spark gallery. Behind the Scenes Tour at Leeds Discovery Centre – Thursdays until April 30 Carlisle Road, Leeds, LS10 1LB 0113 378 2100 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Join knowledgeable guides for a free tour to see everything from fabulous costume to vacuum cleaners, African masks and taxidermy. 11am and 2pm. The Tiger who came to Tea at St George’s Hall Bradford – March 3 and 4 Bridge St, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD1 1JT www.bradford-theatres.co.uk Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show, packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. Muddy Monkeys at Kirkstall Abbey – Tuesdays until April 14 Abbey Road, Leeds, LS5 3EH www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk A friendly free session for under 5s and their carers. Each week there’s a range of crafts, toys, books and instruments and if the weather is nice there’ll be games outside too. Drop in, no need to book. 10am to11am. Tiny Tigers at Leeds City Museum – Fridays until April 24 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Messy crafts for under 5s each Friday at the Museum. The Book Seller at Carriageworks Theatre – March 7 The Electric Press, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD 0113 376 0318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk In the old, dusty bookshop, the lonely bookseller carefully tends to the books and talks to them. One day, the books start to talk back. Created especially for Leeds Lit Fest 2020, The Bookseller is an original production written, produced and performed by the Junior Young Theatre Makers. 2pm and 7pm.
14 Families Leeds
Home Educators Science Workshop at the National Coal Mining Museum – March 13 Caphouse Colliery, New Rd, Overton, Wakefield WF4 4RH 01924 848 806 www.ncm.org.uk Learn how coal was formed, make a fossil and discover the machinery that was used to get coal from underground to the surface. Experience the science behind mining, getting hands-on and having a go at experiments. 11am-12.30pm £5 per child, adults free. Book a place by calling or emailing Bookings.Assistant@ncm.org.uk. The Tiger Who Came to Tea at The Lawrence Batley Theatre – March 13 to 15 Queens Square, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP www.thelbt.org Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos! Fantastic Mr Fox at Carriageworks Theatre – March 18 to 21 The Electric Press, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD 0113 376 0318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk When Mr Fox steals one chicken too many, the farmers decide the only cure is to rid themselves of him once and for all, by any means possible. Leeds Children’s Theatre presents Fantastic Mr Fox By Roald Dahl, adapted for the stage by David Wood. Potty Pots at Temple Newsam – March 21 & 22 Temple Newsam Road, Off Selby Road, Leeds, LS15 0AE www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Follow the Mad Hatter’s trail and take inspiration from the unique designs of teapots from the past to make a teatime card for someone special. Become a butler, maid, master or mistress of the house and prepare afternoon tea for important guests. 10.30am to 4pm. Armley Print Fest at Leeds Industrial Museum – March 21 Armley Mills, Canal Rd, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2QF 0113 263 7861 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Armley Print Fest is back by popular demand! Celebrate a little bit of local Leeds heritage with family fun activities, beginner workshops, a local craft fair and live demonstrations to suit every age, interest and ability. 11am to 4pm. The Lost Happy Endings at Leeds Playhouse – March 27 and 28 Playhouse Square, Leeds, LS2 7UP 01132 137 800 www.leedsplayhouse.org.uk Deep in the forest lives a magical girl named Jub. Her job is to guard the Happy Endings to stories and fairytales. Packed with spirit, adventure and glorious surprises, this fantasy family show is based on an original story by Carol Ann Duffy and retold as dance theatre for family, narrated by Joanna Lumley.
Leeds Young Film Festival – March 30 to April 13 www.leedsfilm.com Explore the worlds of film, animation and virtual reality through screenings, live shows, workshops and drop-ins across Leeds. Billionaire Boy at Alhambra Theatre – March 31 to April 4 Morley Street, Bradford, BD7 1AJ 01274 432 000 www.bradford-theatres.co.uk Amazing new production of David Walliams’ best-selling story, Billionaire Boy. Drawn from the Pits at the National Coal Mining Museum – from April 4 Caphouse Colliery, New Rd, Overton, Wakefield WF4 4RH 01924 848 806 www.ncm.org.uk From the dark depths of the British mines a group of luminary artists emerged, depicting lives of mining communities in ways that could be compared to the likes of Picasso and Lowry. See how their experiences in the mine influenced their artwork, understand why they took to art and what role it played in their lives. Play with interactive displays to mix colours, create artworks in confined spaces and make your own work of art. Easter Egg-stravaganza at Piglets Adventure Farm – April 4 to 19 Towthorpe, York YO32 9ST 01904 499 183 www.pigletsadventurefarm.com Easter egg hunt, bottle fed lambs, lambing live, Magic Hatter Easter shows and much more! Really Wild Spring at Lotherton Hall – April 4 to 19 Lotherton Lane, Aberford, Leeds, LS25 3EB 0113 281 3259 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk A wild spring to make your heart sing! Enjoy Easter at Lotherton with zany zoo animals, hidden house creatures and fantastic flowery gardens. Follow the Wildlife trail, take part in crazy animal crafts, try out seed planting and keep an eye out for special family days too. 10am to 4pm. Easter Holidays and Majestic Eggs at Temple Newsam – April 4 to 19 Temple Newsam Road, Off Selby Road, Leeds, LS15 0AE www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Get involved with family fun crafts, take on the majestic Easter egg hunt and visit newborn farmyard friends at Home Farm. Head to the Walled Garden on April 8 for some pumpkin sowing. Plant your seeds and return to carve them in October, just in time for Halloween! 10am to 4pm. Caphouse Creators: Linocut Designs at the National Coal Mining Museum – April 5 Caphouse Colliery, New Rd, Overton, Wakefield WF4 4RH 01924 848 806 www.ncm.org.uk Caphouse Creators is a fun monthly activity club where young people aged eight to 14 get the opportunity to get creative, learn new skills and work with authentic materials using traditional techniques. This month the Caphouse Creators will be getting hands on carving and printing their own linocut design. 10:30 am-11:30am £5 per child – adults free. Call to book. Destination Space at Eureka! Discovery Road, Halifax, HX1 2NE 01422 330 069 www.eureka.org.uk Go on a journey to explore the latest in space exploration. Find out about the innovative space and engineering being done right here in the UK. Bounce into Easter at Abbey House Museum – April 7 to 17 Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Bounce into Easter with adorable animal crafts in the Victorian streets. On April 10 from 10am to 4pm hop along to meet the Easter Bunny. Choose a treat from his basket, pick up a trail and find the golden eggs hidden around the streets. Don’t miss amazing real-life animals from Lion Learners each Wednesday too, including creepy crawlies and fluffy Easter bunnies!
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WHAT’S ON? Easter Holidays: Patterns & Prints at Leeds City Museum – April 7 to 19 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk There’s a whole load of activities on offer during the Easter holidays with workshops and drop-in sessions suitable for visitors of all ages. Create patterns and prints from April 14 to 17, try your hand at embroidery for children on April 7 and take the daily trail through the museum. Explore patterns through the museum collections from textiles to tiles and animals to Ancient Egyptian jewellery. School Holiday Arts and Crafts at Leeds Art Gallery – Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, April 7 to 16 The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AA 0113 247 8256 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Leeds Art Gallery will be joined by its artist in residence for painting, drawing, crafting and collage. Easter Holidays Bunny Fun at Kirkstall Abbey – April 7 to 19 Abbey Road, Leeds, LS5 3EH www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk The Tuesday under 5s session will be getting a fluffy makeover with lots of creative Easter themed fun. Fancy bagging yourself a sweet treat during your visit? The bunnies have gone hopping mad and hidden all over the abbey! Hunt them down and earn yourself an Easter treat. Crafts and Experiments at Thwaite Mills Museum – Tuesdays & Thursdays, April 7 to 16 Thwaite Lane, Leeds, LS10 1RP www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk During the Easter holidays, there’s a whole load of family fun with Crafty Tuesdays and Experimental Thursdays in Thwaite House. 12pm to 4pm. Necessity at Leeds Industrial Museum – Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays, April 7 to 16 Armley Mills, Canal Rd, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2QF 0113 263 7861 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Follow in the footsteps of Leeds innovators and ask what you could design. Get hands-on and design and build a model inspired by the Leeds to Innovation exhibition. 12.30 to 3pm. Holes at Leeds Playhouse – April 7 to 11 Playhouse Square, Leeds, LS2 7UP 01132 137 800 www.leedsplayhouse.org.uk A thrilling off-beat comedy, perfect for adults and children aged 8 and up. Mystery Matinees at Leeds Industrial Museum – April 7 to 19 Armley Mills, Canal Rd, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2QF 0113 263 7861 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Watch a classic film in one of the UK’s smallest cinemas, every day in the school holidays. The Art Deco Palace Picture House will be screening family favourites and vintage classics. Grab a family ticket for just £9, which includes entry into the museum and the Leeds to Innovation exhibition. 2pm. The Not So Ugly Sisters at Leeds Playhouse – April 8 to 18 Playhouse Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7UP 01132 137 800 www.leedsplayhouse.org.uk A brand new musical re-telling of Cinderella from the perspective of the ’Not So’ Ugly Sisters. A Leeds Playhouse, Red Ladder and Wrongsemble co-production. Easter Holidays at Leeds Discovery Centre – April 8 Carlisle Road, Leeds, LS10 1LB 0113 378 2100 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Take along your tired old t-shirt for a tie dye refresh! This activity ’ties’ in with the new exhibition Fast x Slow Fashion at Leeds City Museum. Booking required. Call 0113 378 2100 or email discovery.centre@leeds.gov.uk. 10am to 12pm.
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The Storm Whale at Carriageworks Theatre – April 14 and 15 The Electric Press, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD 0113 376 0318 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk Based on the award-winning books The Storm Whale and The Storm Whale in Winter by Benji Davies. Recommended for children aged 4 plus and their families. 11am and 2pm.
LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD Anything Could Happen at Temple Newsam – April 8 Temple Newsam Road, Off Selby Road, Leeds, LS15 0AE www.anythingcouldhappenleeds.com Join in with giggles in the gallery! The most unpredictable kids performance is returning to Temple Newsam after a series of hit shows. Suitable for anyone over the age of 5 with a wild imagination and a wicked sense of humour! 1pm to 2pm. Northern Ballet’s Little Red Riding Hood at St George’s Hall Bradford – April 9 Bridge St, Bradford BD1 1JT www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 01274 432 000 Retelling the classic fairy tale with a Northern Ballet twist, Little Red Riding Hood is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre. Sensory Room for Families with Additional Needs at Leeds City Museum – April 9 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk For those who may find a trip to the museum a little overwhelming, Leeds City Museum will be hosting a pop-up sensory room with bubble tube, dark tents and tactile toys for a calmer moment on your museum trip. Booking essential via Eventbrite, 10.30 to 11.30. See the Mill Engine in Steam at Leeds Industrial Museum – April 10 to 13 Armley Mills, Canal Rd, Armley, Leeds, LS12 2QF 0113 263 7861 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Experience the museum’s mill engine in full steam and discover fascinating facts from the expert engineer. Learn about its history and the mechanics behind this ground-breaking machine. Room on the Broom and The Highway Rat at Leeds Town Hall – April 11 The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AD 0113 247 6647 www.leedstownhall.co.uk Terry Davies conducts René Aubry’s inspired scores for this double bill, Room on the Broom and The Highway Rat. 2.30pm and 4.15pm. The 2.30pm show is a relaxed performance. Slime at The Lawrence Batley Theatre – April 11 Queens Square, Huddersfield, HD1 2SP www.thelbt.org Enter Slug and Caterpillar’s world and sit in a giant garden to squish, squelch and play your way through this hilarious, surreal show for 2 to 5-year-olds and their families. 11am and 2pm. Easter Fayre at Thwaite Mills Museum – April 12 Thwaite Lane, Leeds, LS10 1RP www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Hop along to the annual Easter event with tea dances, pop-up cake stalls, traditional fete related games and a whole load of springtime fun. Pet some animal pals or take a trip on one of the bright and beautiful canal boats. 12pm to 4pm. Andy and the Odd Socks at City Varieties Music Hall – April 13 Swan St, Leeds, LS1 6LW www.cityvarieties.co.uk Fronted by CBeebies superstar Andy Day, the London based five-piece will play live shows up and down the country to support the release of their hotly anticipated second studio album Who’s In The Odd Socks? due for release on April 3.
In the Night Garden Live at Leeds Playhouse – April 15 to 16 Playhouse Square, Leeds, LS2 7UP 0113 213 7800 www.leedsplayhouse.org.uk In the Night Garden Live show is coming to Leeds Playhouse! Iggle Piggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends are back in their fun-filled live show, Iggle Piggle’s Busy Day. Wacky Wednesdays Science Special at the National Coal Mining Museum – April 15 Caphouse Colliery, New Rd, Overton, Wakefield WF4 4RH 01924 848 806 www.ncm.org.uk A morning of hands on science for under fives and their carers. 10.15 am-11.45am. Cost £5 per child, £5 per adult. Babies under the age of one go free. Booking is essential. Easter Holidays at Leeds Discovery Centre – April 15 Carlisle Road, Leeds, LS10 1LB 0113 378 2100 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Go along and take inspiration from the ceramic collections to create your own masterpiece in a messy play session for creative kids of all ages. Booking required. Call 0113 378 2100 or email discovery.centre@leeds.gov.uk. 10am to 12pm. Exciting Science at Kings Hall Ilkley – April 15 Station Road, Ilkley, LS29 8HB www.bradford-theatres.co.uk So, join crazy scientists as they create a volcanic eruption, build an Air Missile Launcher, make mini rockets and create some pretty big bangs live on stage. With loads more fun and other experiments to see, this highly interactive show is the perfect way to expand your mind in the world of science. 11.30am. Puss In Boots the Easter Panto at Victoria Theatre Halifax – April 15 to 17 2 Fountain Street, Halifax, HX1 1BP www.victoriatheatre.co.uk 01422 351 158 The Purr-fect Easter Treat. Pop-up event looking at art in 3D at the Henry Moore Institute – April 17 The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AH 0113 234 3158 www.henry-moore.org Family friendly pop-up event looking at art in 3D with the Henry Moore Institute. No need to book, just drop in. 11am to 4pm. Little Grimm Tales at Carriageworks Theatre – April 17 The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD 0113 224 3801 www.carriageworkstheatre.co.uk Join award winning Box Tale Soup on an adventure for children aged 3 plus. 11.30am and 2.30pm. Zog Live on Stage in Halifax – April 24 to 26 The Victoria Theatre Halifax, Fountain Street, Halifax, HX1 1BP 01422 351 158 www.victoriatheatre.co.uk/ whats-on/zog Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved tale is sure to be a hit with the whole family. St George’s Weekend at Lotherton Hall – April 25 and 26 Lotherton Lane, Aberford, Leeds, LS25 3EB 0113 281 3259 www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk Head to Lotherton for St George’s Weekend with a dragon trail to conquer, dressing up, medieval crafts, mythical beast activities and explosive experiments. Sit back in the formal gardens and enjoy the sounds of a brass band each afternoon. 10am to 4pm.
Families Leeds 15
Stay & Play Event
You are invited to join us for a real-life animal handling experience with both familiar and wild animals, plus a variety of activities for parents and children aged 2-7 years.
Saturday 28th March 9.30 – 11.30am Activities include: Easter Egg Hunt with a FREE gift for all the children, Painting, Easter Art and Craft activities as well as Easter baking. As this is a very popular event we encourage you to reserve your place by contacting our registrar at hthompson@huddersfield-grammar.co.uk or call the School Office on 01484 424549. The whole child is the whole point. Tel: 01484 424549 | www.huddersfield-grammar.co.uk Royds Mount, Luck Lane, Marsh, Huddersfield, HD1 4QX