Families Oxfordshire September October Print

Dear Reader,

As many of us make that familiar first walk back to school, there is a whiff of nostalgia in the air as the conkers ripen on the trees, the days get shorter, and the leaves start to fall and our thoughts of long summer days turn to cosy nights in and comforting food. Make the most of those end-ofsummer days with our selection of things to do in the regular ‘What’s On, things to do and fun to be had’ pages. If you are looking to sign up your little one to a new club or class for the next school year take a look at pages 17-19 for some local classes.

What's in this issue?

4. News & Views

7. Education Feature

Quote of the Day

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A FAMILY TICKET* TO SEE JACK AND THE BEANSTALK AT OXFORD PLAYHOUSE!

*a family ticket is for up to 4 people (maximum 2 adults) Get ready for a GIGANTIC panto experience!

Climb to new heights with Jack and the Beanstalk, a FEE FI FO FUN pantomime for everyone to enjoy at Oxford Playhouse, from the production team that brought you the glittering Cinderella in 2022.

Poor Jack can’t seem to help getting into trouble with his mum. Now he’s really landed himself in it by selling the family cow to a stranger for a handful of old beans. But hang on a minute! Those mysterious beans have started to grow… and grow… and GROW!

Full of infectious laughter, brilliant storytelling, singing, dancing, cheering for the goodies and booing for the baddies, an Oxford Playhouse pantomime is fabulous festive fun for everyone aged 5 to 105!

To be in with a chance of winning, please visit our Facebook page @familieseastoxfordshiremag and like and share our competition post. Good luck.

8. What’s On

11. Choosing a Secondary School

13. School Spotlights

15. School Spotlights

17. What’s On Clubs & Classes

EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336, editor@familiesOxfordshire.co.uk

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk

SOCIAL MEDIA: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk

DESIGN: Caroline Thompson-Heap, info@cheekymonkeydesigns.net

@FamiliesOxonMag

‘Enjoy the little things in life for one day you will look back and realize they were the big things’

Children in England ranked fourth globally for reading

Primary school children in England have ranked fourth in the international rankings for reading.

The latest results in the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study - known as PIRLS - saw England’s rank jump from eighth position into the top five. Based on tests taken every five years, the study places countries in a global education league table. Singapore scored the highest result, with an average score of 587. Second was Hong Kong with an average score of 573, followed by Russia (567) and England (558).

The PIRLS tests are taken by children ages 9 and 10, normally Year 5 pupils in England, at the end of the school year. Overall, girls were ahead of boys in their reading achievement in nearly all of the ranked countries but the gender gap has narrowed in the most recent testing round.

More info: www.iea.nl/studies/iea/PIRLS

Children’s Forest –planting forests for a healthy future

Children’s Forest is an initiative to reconnect children and their local communities with nature and plant forests for future generations. It brings together local landowners, Nature Educators and children from a school or community group to create a local forest.

Approaching your local council or a local landowner to introduce Children’s Forest can be an excellent way to begin seeding a forest in your local area. Once there is a landowner who is keen to host a project, Children’s Forest can work to fit the pieces in place. You could also speak to your child’s headteacher and introduce them to the Children’s Forest. Since its inception, Children’s Forest has planted over five thousand trees in thirteen forests across the country involving groups of local children. More info: www.childrensforest.earth

NHS 111 service to offer paediatric advice

Patients are set to receive an enhanced NHS 111 service offering increased access to specialist paediatric advice for children as part of a new, recently announced blueprint.

Parents and carers seeking health advice for children and young people using NHS 111 by phone or online will be offered specialist advice, including support from paediatric clinicians who can help them manage their child’s illness at home or decide the best route for their care.

This will see some children referred directly to a same-day appointment with a specialist rather than attending A&E, avoiding hundreds of unnecessary hospital admissions.

The new plans will see an increased number of clinicians – including retired staff and returners – working in NHS 111 to provide the enhanced offer to patients. More info: www.england.nhs.uk/news

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS CELEBRATE CREATIVITY

Heritage Open Days (HODs) return from 8th to 17th September with thousands of free events and experiences.

From historic houses to factories, museums to music halls, formal gardens to graveyards, places, spaces and communities across the country will again host hundreds of free events this autumn.

There will be plenty of free interactive activities for children including dressing up, craft, woodland walks and railway rides, all based around this year’s theme, Creativity Unwrapped, sharing England’s colourful history of creativity. The festival will celebrate the experts and enthusiastic amateurs whose passions and skills add something special to our daily lives.

Brought to you by the National Trust, supported by People’s Postcode Lottery and run by thousands of local organisations and volunteers, HODs brings people together to celebrate their heritage,community and history.

New events will be added to the festival directory every day. More info: www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Seasonal fun at Cogges Manor Farm

Enjoy family fun at Cogges Manor Farm, open daily until the end of October. Say hello to the friendly goats, Cotswold sheep, Shetland ponies, chickens and ducks, with ‘Meet the Animals’ sessions at weekends 11am & 2pm. Stop for lunch or seasonal treats at Cogges Kitchen Café, and browse the gift shop! See ‘What Cogges Means to You’ exhibition from September, and Cogges Tapestry displayed in October. (Please note, Cogges is closed for a private event on Saturday 23rd September; cafe remains open.)

New offer at Blenheim Palace this summer

For a limited time, when you buy an Annual Pass, Privilege Pass or Palace, Park and Gardens Day ticket, you can get a complimentary visit to their Adventure Play! *

Get ready for a year of excitement and adventures with a Blenheim Palace Pass and immerse yourself in a world of fun like never before. Unleash your inner adventurer as you conquer climbing frames, whizz down zip lines and shoot down slides.

But that’s not all! With an Annual Pass the fun keeps on coming. Little adventurers will love the amazing Marlborough maze and nearby tropical butterfly house, then it’s just a short ride on Winston (their miniature train) to discover 300 years of history inside the Palace.

As well as all the fun you can have in their Walled Garden with an Annual Pass, you will also benefit from free entry to many of our most popular events such as the Jousting Tournament, the Food Festival and Christmas in the Palace (if you visit before 15.45). You will also have the opportunity to take part in a variety of seasonal activities throughout the year.

If that’s not enough, then to top it off you can enjoy their 2,000 acres of outdoor space and parkland, perfect for picnics, running around or simply relaxing and soaking up the views. *T&Cs apply

LET ACTIVE CAMPS ENTERTAIN THE CHILDREN THIS HALLOWEEN!

Active Camps provide high quality, Ofsted registered, school holiday multi-activity and adventure camps for 3–14-year-olds in Oxfordshire and the South-East.

All Active Camps including Active Adventure, are hosted at some of the most exceptional and outstanding independent schools in the country.

This coming October half-term, they will be working in partnership with a number of local schools including Summer Fields School, in Summertown.

Children will get to participate in a wide range of indoor activities and outdoor pursuits which encourage children to immerse themselves in their surroundings and explore the amazing green spaces that the host schools have to offer.

Each day, one of the Active Camps will feature a different range of activities and children will get to participate in a range of sports games and indoor activities including, football, tag rugby, dodgeball, basketball, table tennis, creative arts, dancing, and drama, and also a host of team challenges to name a few!

Led by highly qualified staff including teachers and sports coaches, the wide range of activities are tailored for the children with engagement and fun being at the forefront of everything they do.

Operating for nearly 25 years, Active Camps offer exceptional childcare in a safe environment and deliver engaging activities to help build self-confidence and nurture young people into becoming the best version of themselves.

Join them this October Half Term! www.oxfordactive.co.uk

Email: info@oxfordactive.co.uk or call 01865 594 325.

Choosing the right windows for your home

Installing the wrong windows can leave your home feeling cold and can also reduce its value. Don’t be misled into thinking that timber windows can’t offer the same or better benefits as other materials.

You don’t need to choose between thermal efficiency and traditional, period appropriate windows. Most timber windows today are double glazed.

In addition to being more appropriate for many period homes, sustainably sourced timber windows are also better for the environment, saving around 160kg of carbon dioxide compared to plastic.

Established in 1994, The Sash Window Workshop are an awardwinning company specialising in traditional timber windows and doors. The company are a Which? Trusted Trader and believe that windows should be energy efficient while also being in keeping with the architectural style.

The Sash Window Workshop recommend using Accoya, a sustainably sourced, FSC certified timber known for its stability and durability that comes with a 50-year anti-rot guarantee.

New joinery is manufactured in their workshops in Berkshire and installed by their experienced fitters. All windows are draught proofed and, providing planning permission allows it, double glazed as standard.

The company offer a range of services including full replacement, replacing the moving parts of the window (the sashes), and draught proofing the existing windows. For listed buildings they offer single glazing or secondary glazing, a solution to improve heat retention where double glazing isn’t permitted.

To obtain a quotation, contact The Sash Window Workshop on 01344 868 668 or visit www.sashwindow.com.

Get autumn-term ready with a free Perform class

Toddlers’ gut bacteria predict future obesity

Scientists can determine whether a child will go on to develop obesity by analysing their gut bacteria during their early years, a new study suggests.

Research conducted at the Université Sorbonne Paris found that changes in the gut bacteria that predispose to adult obesity begin in early childhood. The study looked at the data from 512 infants who were part of a study that tracked the lives of 18,000 children born in France.

The scientists detected a link between the children’s BMI score at age 5 and the ratio of two types of obesity-related bacteria in their gut – Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes.

Lead author Gaël Toubon said: ‘The reasons these gut bacteria affect weight is because they regulate how much fat we absorb. Our findings reveal how an imbalance in distinct bacterial groups may play an important role in the development of obesity.’

More: www.diabetes.co.uk/

Perform classes use a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s potential. Run by experienced actor-teachers, the classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: confidence, communication, coordination and concentration.

From September, Perform 4-7 year olds will take to the skies with Phileas Fogg as they go on an amazing adventure Around the World. Whether walking like a wallaby in the outback or revealing the legends of the Egyptian pyramids, the new term will be filled with globe trotting fun!

Meanwhile, 7-12 year olds are going to the ball in a rags-to-riches rock show, Cinderella Rocks. This hilarious version of Cinderella features struggling band, The Ugglies, in their quest to top the charts with charming music mogul, Simon Prince.

With all abilities welcome, the children will work towards an end of term performance for family and friends. The only requirement is to get ready to have the best fun of the week!

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to find your nearest venue and to book a free class. Venues: West Oxford Community Centre, Oxford: Wednesdays. The Northcourt Centre, Abingdon: Saturdays and Thursdays. Didcot Methodist Church Hall: Fridays. Benson Youth Hall, Wallingford: Saturdays. Kingsmere Community Centre, Bicester: Wednesdays. Marston United Reformed Church, Oxford: Saturdays. Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / E: enquiries@perform.org.uk

A curriculum that recognises young people as individuals and supports them in realising their full potential.

For more information go to our website: www.lvs-oxford.org.uk

Celebrating different learning styles

Just as none of us look the same, everyone is born with tendencies towards certain learning styles when developing literacy, language and motor skills. Recognising your child’s learning style is important in understanding how they access their learning, particularly if they appear to be struggling in certain areas.

VISUAL LEARNERS RELY ON WHAT THEY SEE. Encourage them to use visual aids, sit at the front of the class and write down or draw information.

KINESTHETIC LEARNERS LEARN BEST THROUGH DOING AND MOVING. They benefit from using tools, acting out or role-playing new information and having freedom of movement.

AUDITORY LEARNERS LEARN BEST THROUGH HEARING AND LISTENING. Engage in discussions about what they are learning, read stories out loud and repeat information.

SOLITARY LEARNERS ABSORB INFORMATION INDEPENDENTLY OF OTHER PEOPLE. Let them make notes and recite back, provide quiet learning spaces and give opportunities for sharing learning.

VERBAL LEARNERS RESPOND WELL TO WRITTEN OR SPOKEN WORDS. Play word games, use rhymes, acronyms and mnemonics, read their writing aloud, encourage discussion and debate.

LOGICAL LEARNERS USE LOGIC AND STRUCTURES IN ORDER TO LEARN EFFECTIVELY. Provide problem-solving tasks, challenge them to work things out for themselves and have them verbalise ideas and answers.

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

Identifying your child’s learning style

Observe how your child naturally interacts with the world around them and also note weaknesses: what types of tasks are challenging?

Watch how your child expresses themselves. Children will be more expressive through their natural learning style. Auditory learners express themselves best through words whilst visual learners are more apt to reveal their emotions through facial expressions. Kinesthetic learners use more body language and may seem unable to stop themselves fidgeting.

CONSIDER YOUR CHILD’S INTERESTS. These will likely reflect their learning styles. Auditory learners usually show an interest in music and sounds. Visual learners often have interests both in reading, watching TV and looking at interesting objects. With kinesthetic learners, look for an interest in physical activities.

SEE HOW YOUR CHILD SOLVES PROBLEMS. Children lean into their learning styles. Auditory learners tend to talk through and discuss possible solutions whilst visual learners use their eyes to solve problems. Kinesthetic learners will usually try to solve problems with their hands.

Being flexible around learning styles

As important as it is to understand and support your child with simple strategies to help them learn in the way that suits them best, it’s also helpful to encourage and embrace new ideas and a more flexible approach to their learning.

Recent research has concluded that teaching children to use one specific learning style over others may not be entirely beneficial within the classroom setting. Sticking to what you perceive as your preferred learning style can create limitations, giving a false belief that learning can only be managed in one particular way. The most important thing is for a child to have the time to self-reflect on how they learn best and to be encouraged to experiment with tackling problems from a variety of angles.

It is also important to note that over time a child’s learning styles can change as they develop and progress through their own personal growth and their educational journey. Every child is unique and learning style is just one part of the greater way that your child learns. Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www. emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with the insights, skills and tools needed to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.

Why different learning styles?

While the information people receive might be the same, each of our brains processes information differently, influenced by several factors, one of which is learning style.

Your child’s tendencies and preferences for learning can be influenced by peers, cultures, age, their own experiences and available educational materials. What works for one child doesn’t necessarily work for the next.

There is no ‘correct’ learning style. Each child is unique but understanding the preferred styles of different learners can greatly impact their successes in the classroom as well as contributing to their own sense of personal development and achievement.

With the help of observant parents and teachers, children can benefit from understanding and engaging their natural tendencies. However be flexible; it is a rare child who solely works best with one style alone. By understanding and practising a range of different learning styles, a child will have a bigger ‘toolbox’ to call on, finding a combination that enhances their ability to understand, recall and use the information they learn.

What’s On

Things to do, places to go and fun to be had for kids of all ages in

Oxfordshire

The Witch’s House

WHEN: 21st - 28th October

WHERE: Cogges Manor Farm, Witney

The Witch’s House is back for half term – see this year’s Brothers Grimm-inspired transformation with Halloween outfits encouraged! Cogges is a unique historic farm in the heart of Witney, Oxfordshire with a beautiful Manor House, enchanting walled garden, orchard, adventure play and friendly animal residents.

From £6.00 www.cogges.org.uk

01993 772602

Adventure Play

WHEN: September, October

WHERE: Blenheim Palace Blenheim Palace adventure play is a hidden world of adventure, where mini explorers of all ages create their own exciting stories as they clamber, climb, paddle, slide, splash and zip through the exciting zones. Explore the amazing network of tunnels, bridges, cargo nets and hidden chambers.

Prices from £11.50 www.blenheimpalace.com

Michaelmas Daisy Season

WHEN: 1st – 30th September, 10.00 – 17.30

WHERE: Waterperry Gardens

See the famous herbaceous border in all its late summer glory as it bursts back into life with Michaelmas Daisies (Asters). There will be a huge range of Waterperry grown varieties on sale in the plant centre and experts will be on hand to give advice about these wonderful plants. Adults £10.50, children under 16 free www.waterperrygardens.co.uk 01844 339254

Family Days every Saturday

WHEN: 10:00-12:00, 12:30- 14:30

WHERE: Science Oxford Centre 2 hours hands-on session in the amazing Exploration Zone + access to the woodland all day. Pick up an Explorer Backpack and explore the nature trails, and make a splash with the outdoor Water Lab. Aimed at 6+, all welcome. £7.50 per person, Under 3s free. scienceoxford.com/events/ family-days-every-saturday/

Chilli Fest

WHEN: 1st-3rd September, 10.00 – 17.00

WHERE: Waddesdon

Chilli Fest is the perfect way to round off the summer holidays with plenty of family fun and children’s activities to enjoy with face painting, crafty activities and the chance to make music with the ever-popular Junk Yard Orchestra. Under 5’s FREE www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Agatha Christie Weekend

WHEN: 8th - 10th September

WHERE: Wallingford Museum

Events include a ‘Who Dunnit’ challenge at the Museum on Friday night, guided walks along the Agatha Christie Trail and a Murder Mystery Dinner at Cholsey Great Hall on the Saturday evening.

www.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk

Heritage Open Days

WHEN: 8th - 17th September

WHERE: Oxfordshire

England’s largest festival of history and culture, gives you the chance to discover local, hidden gems. Churches, museums, railways, gardens: lots of venues open their doors to the public. Free. Booking recommended. www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Young Rangers – Didcot

WHEN: 9th September, 13.30 – 15.30

WHERE: Sutton Courtenay

Environmental Education Centre

A wildlife club for 8 - 12 year olds who love nature and wildlife. Sessions are packed full of fun games and activities to teach you all about the fantastic natural world that surrounds you.

£7.00 per child

Thame Food Festival

WHEN: 30th Sept to 1st October

WHERE: The Thame Showground

Demonstrations on the Big Cookery Stage, artisan and street food, the Humble Country shopping marquee, live music, FestivAles’ pop up pub, children’s activity area, circus skills tent, dog show and much more! Adult from £12.00 (children under 16 free)

thamefoodfestival.co.uk

Family Night Safari

WHEN: 22nd September, 18:00 – 20:00

WHERE: Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre

Learn to use bat detectors to hear bats hunting overhead and lamps to spot newts and frogs in the ponds, help our nature reserve team check the small mammal traps and have a look at the moth trap to find out how we monitor and survey these amazing insects! £7.00

www.bbowt.org.uk/events/

Tiny Ideas Festival

WHEN: 28th September1st October

WHERE: Venues around Oxford

The first ever early years arts festival in Oxford celebrating 0 – 6 year olds and the creativity they bring to the world!

tinyideasoxford.com

Waterperry House Open Weekend

WHEN: 2nd – 3rd September, 10.00 – 17.30

WHERE: Waterperry Gardens

A chance to meet the owners of Waterperry Estate: the School of Philosophy and Economic Science. There will be a varied selection of lectures, talks and tours throughout the weekend with entry to the house included with your garden entry.

Adults £10.50, children under 16 free. www.waterperrygardens.co.uk

01844 339254

www.bbowt.org.uk

Nature Tots

WHEN: 13th September, 09:30-11:00

WHERE: Sutton Courtenay, Environmental Education Centre

Explore the nature reserve and enjoy wildlife themed activities suitable for children aged 18 months to 4 years. Every session includes wildlife exploration, sensory play, stories and crafts. £7.00 per child

www.bbowt.org.uk

Autumn Fest

WHEN: 30th September – 1st October

9.30 – 19.30

WHERE: Blenheim Palace

A host of super fun games, local music, entertainment and activities for all ages including the Michaelmas Market with 50 independent traders from across the county and artisan food stalls. Children can join in on the autumnal fun with harvest games, green ‘how to’ and natural craft workshops and race to climb to the top of the hay bale pyramid.

From £10.50 www.blenheimpalace.com

World Earthworm Day

WHEN: 21st October 10:0011:30, 12:30-14:00, 15:00-16:30

WHERE: Science Oxford

Unearth the secret life of worms and how they contribute to nature’s ecosystem. Make a jelly worm, learn about composting and see how worms help the soil to grow veg and plants. Dig for worms in the woodland, and take a survey by counting and identifying their wriggly friends.

Ages 5-9

£10 for one child and adult www.scienceoxford.com/whatson/world-earthworm-day

JACK AND BEANSTALK

WHEN: 30th September, 11:00, 14:00, 16:00

WHERE: Oxford Playhouse

Jack lives on a small farm with his mum and very little to eat. Imagine his surprise when he swaps his cow for some magic beans and starts to hear a whispering in the breeze and a giant rumble in the sky... Suitable for ages 3-7 Children £8.50

www.oxfordplayhouse.com/whats-on 01865 305 305

Family Trail:

Enchanted Forest

WHEN: 24th – 26th October, 10.00 – 14.00

WHERE: Sutton Courtenay

Environmental Education Centre

Witches, wizards and scientists all know that trees are full of magic, but Olwen the Owl knows best of all. Follow Olwen’s flight through the story trail on the autumnal nature reserve and discover the magic of trees for yourself - from healing bark to glow in the dark!

Halloween at Blenheim Palace

WHEN: 20th – 29th October

WHERE: Blenheim Palace

Ages 4 – 11 years

£8.00 per child

www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Master Builders Club Brick Building LEGO® Workshops

WHEN:

September -

October

WHERE: Spooktacular Fairground Foray, Sonning Common Village Hall & The Heights Primary, Caversham 24th, The Story Museum 25th & Badgemore Primary, Henley on Thames 26th

Halloween Hunt in the Gardens

WHEN: 21st October – 5th November, 10.00 – 17.00

WHERE: Waterperry Gardens

Take part in the Waterperry Halloween Hunt throughout the October half term.

£3.00 per child including prize (adult garden entrance fee applies). 01844 339254

www.waterperrygardens.co.uk

As Halloween creeps closer and the days shorten, a mysterious mist falls across the gardens at Blenheim Palace. Join with family and friends to wander from dusk into darkness between one ghostly space to another.

From £14.00 under 2’s go free www.blenheimpalace.com

With 9 acres of ornamental gardens, a teashop and picnic area and a full programme of annual events - there’s fun for all the family at Waterberry Gardens.

DIARY DATES: Orchard tours 8th Octobersee where the apples for the taste award juice are grown and how they are pressed and bottled. Halloween trail 21st Oct - 5th Nov. Prize at the end £3.00 per child with fee paying adult.

Do you love building with Lego® bricks? If you’re a budding designer, engineer or inventor then Master Builders Club needs you! Creative brick building workshops for children age 5+ with 3 different exciting themes. Just remember to bring your imagination!

www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk

PEPPA PIG’S FUN DAY OUT

WHEN: 25th – 26th October

WHERE: Oxford Playhouse

Join Peppa, along with her family and friends as they go to the zoo and also the beach for a special party- it’s going to be an exciting and fun packed day.

Prepare to sing and dance with colourful scarecrows, feed the penguins, build big sandcastles, and even swim in the sea! Suitable for ages 3+ From £10.00 www.oxfordplayhouse.com/ whats-on 01865 305 305

Apple Weekend

WHEN: 8th October, 10.00 – 16:00

WHERE: Waterperry Gardens

A great family day out where you can sample and buy different types of apples and juices, buy goodies at the craft and food fair, take a tour of the orchards & fruit sheds, be entertained by the Crendon Morris Men (Sunday only) and take the children around the apple anagram game in the gardens. Adults £10.50, children under 16 free. www.waterperrygardens.co.uk

01844 339254

At d’Overbroeck’s, our teachers get to know every student who joins us as an individual. They build a relationship of mutual respect, and work together to unlock each student’s full potential. Find out how your child can make their mark on the world and how we’ll make every moment of their education count.

Rated Excellent by the ISI for Student Achievement and Personal Development Register for our next Open Day Saturday 14 October

doverbroecks.com

Which secondary is right for my child?

Joanna Moorhead on the 20 things you need to know when choosing ‘big school’

1. Make your own mind up. It’s amazing how many parents never even look round a school because of what they’ve heard. A school that doesn’t suit another family could be just right for yours

2. Listen to your child’s feelings as well as your own. Choosing his or her primary was down to just you and your partner; but your 10 or 11-year-old deserves a say.

3. Use open days wisely. If you can, go to a daytime visit (especially to a school that seems a strong contender) because you’ll see it in working mode.

4. Nothing advertises a school like its pupils. Do they seem happy? Are they polite? If you have time, hang around in the area at home time. Are they well-behaved?

5. How about the staff – do they seem happy and fulfilled working there? Take opportunities to chat to them.

6. Listen to your instincts. If a school doesn’t feel right, move on. You don’t have to explain yourself or your reasons for doing so to anyone else (although you do, of course, need to discuss it with your child if your instincts are different).

13. If you like a school, do your homework about whether your child fits its entrance requirements. However much you love the school, and however much you think your child would thrive there, you’ll only get a place if you fulfil the criteria. Read the school’s entrance policy through very, very carefully. If you don’t fulfil the requirements, could you change something so you do? If not, move on: there’s no point in wasting a choice or railing against something you can’t change.

14. You’re bound to talk to other parents, and you want to talk to other parents, but don’t get pulled along by their tide. Do your own research and develop your own views: knowledge is power.

15. Keep telling yourself (because it’s true!) that there is no perfect school. Every school has strengths and weaknesses. There’s more than one school that can be right for your child.

16. When the time comes to fill in the forms, allow yourself lots of time and do it extremely carefully. There may be supplementary forms, and there may be complicated arrangements for giving them in (especially if you’re applying to faith schools). If you find it all too confusing, talk to your child’s primary teacher or primary head, or call the education department at your local authority.

17. Have a plan of action for what you’ll do if you don’t get the school you’re hoping for. Just having that plan will make you feel more relaxed.

18. Remember that there’s a lot of movement in the first few weeks after places are allocated, and many children get in from waiting lists.

7. Don’t get bogged down in the detail: what you’re aiming to get is a sense of the school. Does it feel happy, productive, calm? Is there a sense of order and caring? These things matter more than the nitty-gritty.

8. Think about your child’s talents and interests and ponder carefully whether they’ll be catered for. But think too about what the school offers that might be harder to pick up at home. We’re a family of journalists, where literacy is easier for us as parents; so I’m glad my girls went to a school that specialised in maths and science, even though these weren’t their strongest subjects.

9. Pay attention to what’s on the walls – and not just the artwork. What are children being warned about, or encouraged to do? Are there any school visits being advertised? What clubs seem to be thriving?

10. Look at the school’s league tables, but don’t pin everything on them. Read the Ofsted report too and pay particular attention to how the school has done over time. If it’s had a dip, are there signs of improvement or suggestions that it could turn round?

11. Where do pupils go on to from this school? You want to see at least some youngsters doing well academically and aiming for good courses at top universities.

12. Go to the head teacher’s talk and take your notebook. This is an important part of the event: not only do you need to pick up on the head’s attitude and values and what matters most to him or her, but you also need to pay special attention to anything that’s said about the entrance criteria. Understanding that is the crucial next stage.

19. Don’t underestimate how much hard work an appeal can be, or how emotionally draining. That’s not to say don’t do it: just be prepared.

20. Remember that, at the end of the day, parents make more difference to a child’s future than a school does. Even if your child doesn’t get into your first choice of school (and one in seven didn’t last year) your attitude to that could be a much bigger factor in what happens next for your child than the school itself. Have confidence, first and foremost, in your child. And believe that, together, you will work things out if and when you come up against problems.

If a school doesn’t feel right, move on

LVS Oxford

LVS Oxford is a specialist school for boys and girls aged 11 to 19 with a diagnosis on the autism spectrum. It aims to enable students to realise their full potential and become independent individuals who are confident and successful, leaving the school able to enjoy independent futures in jobs or further mainstream education. LVS Oxford has an experienced team of teachers and teaching assistants who are passionate about providing a positive and nurturing learning environment for young people with a diagnosis of autism. A specialist curriculum is underpinned by three main areas for development – Learning, Growing and Achieving. With small class sizes averaging 8 pupils, and a teacher and LSA in every one, LVS Oxford provides academic and personal learning opportunities. www.lvs-oxford.org.uk

Our Lady’s Abingdon

Happy Learners make Successful Achievers

What makes OLA different?

We are a small school, big enough to offer a wide range of subjects and activities, but small enough to mean that every child can receive individual attention throughout their time here. Our teachers ignite pupils with fun and innovative learning, ensuring that they are fully engaged in the academic life, thus achieving excellent results.

Our co-curricular offering is an essential part of day-to-day school life. All pupils are encouraged to take part in a wide range of confidence-developing activities, including sport, drama, art and music. Our outstanding highly praised pastoral care is at the centre of everything we do. We see each child as a unique person, with gifts and talents to be nurtured,developing key qualities such as integrity, compassion,co-operation and courage. www.ola.org.uk/visit

OPEN DAYS: Saturday 23rd September, 10.00 - 12.30

Wednesday 22nd November, 9.30 – 11.30

Christ Church Cathedral School

Founded by Henry VIII, Christ Church Cathedral School (CCCS) is a Prep School for boys aged 3 - 13, with a Co-ed Nursery. We offer boarding for Choristers, flexi-boarding and occasional boarding for day boys aged 8 – 13.

Our Nursery is housed in a 16th Century building, comprising four welcoming classrooms with a lovely garden. It’s a special place, where the children’s happiness and development are at the heart of everything. Children benefit from a seamless transition from Nursery to Reception and beyond. We pride ourselves on exceptional academic and musical achievements - over 50% of our boys achieved scholarships to leading secondary schools in 2023.

As a small school, CCCS is renowned for its family-oriented approach and close co-operation between parents and staff. . Contact our Registrar, Mrs Laura Kemp, for more information or to arrange an individual tour.

www.cccs.org.uk

OPEN MORNING: Saturday 14th October from 9.30 am

Cranford School

Cranford is a leading co-educational independent day school for boys and girls aged 3-18 years. It has an excellent reputation for providing pupils with a balanced, all-round education within a warmly nurturing environment. Set in over 14 acres of rural South Oxfordshire in the heart of Moulsford village, the small class sizes, close community and committed staff ensure each pupil is ably supported and challenged to achieve their full potential. The school was rated as ‘Excellent’ in all categories in its ISI Inspection, November 2022.

Academic attainment at Cranford House is outstanding. The pupils consistently achieve over 60% of all grades A*-A at GCSE. Value-added scores are more impressive than ever with pupils achieving an average 1.3 of a grade higher per subject than predicted elsewhere.

Cranford encourage pupils to achieve their full potential, becoming motivated, confident and happy individuals, recognising the importance of respect and support for others, but ready to seize life’s opportunities

www.cranfordschool.co.uk

OPEN DAY: Saturday 7th October 9:30am-12pm

Sibford School

Sibford School is a co-educational independent day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 –18, focussing on a values-driven education.

Sibford is located in the peaceful Oxfordshire village of Sibford Ferris close to the Cotswolds. Nestled in 50 acres, the school benefits from a beautiful campus, forest school, indoor swimming pool, climbing wall and lots of opportunities for outdoor education. Pupils are taught in small classes where dedicated teachers nurture, inspire, support and stretch each individual, but ultimately encouraging them to find their own talents and to simply be themselves.

In the recent ISI inspection in December 2021, Sibford was rated at ‘Excellent’. www.sibfordschool.co.uk

OPEN DAYS: Friday 15th September / Friday 13th October

D’Overbroeck School

d’Overbroeck’s is built on personal relationships, a lack of stuffiness and a strong belief that every individual lies at the heart of the school. Students are creative, think for themselves, relish stretching the boundaries of their knowledge and do very well academically. It’s a forwardthinking school full of energy, laughter and achievement.

World-class staff deliver an inclusive, collaborative approach with a strong focus on learning being enjoyable as well as successful. Students gain confidence expressing themselves, questioning and being independent thinkers.

Like you, we want the very best for your child. And that’s why, at d’Overbroeck’s, we offer a progressive and fully personalised education that embraces individual talents and ambitions.

From the moment your child joins us, they’ll feel a sense of belonging. Empowered by exceptional teachers, your child can confidently be themselves and do what they love, ensuring they flourish both academically and personally. www.doverbeocks.com

OPEN DAYS: Sixth Form and Years 7-11, 14th October 2023, 10am-1pm

Chandlings Prep School

Chandlings is a leading co-educational prep school for children aged 2-11 set within 60 acres of beautiful grounds just five miles from Oxford. Chandlings pupils leave school kind, curious, creative and independent. Their journey begins in Nursery or Reception and continues throughout their school life when they move on in Year 6.

Our Early Years children regularly enjoy our beautiful grounds where they meet the ponies, feed pygmy goats or go on bear hunts in the Woodland! They also have weekly swimming lessons in our pool once they turn 4.

In Reception we promote effective early learning through exploration, active learning and problem solving. The children are enabled to make decisions and become independent learners. They also have specialist teachers for PE, Music, French, Drama, Outdoor Learning and Art. www.chandlingspst.org

EARLY YEARS OPEN MORNING: 23rd September 10am- 12pm

Summer Fields

Summer Fields for boys aged 4-13, has been at the forefront of providing an education which nurtures the whole child since it was founded in 1864. To this day it remains true to its motto of creating ‘a healthy mind in a healthy body’.

One of the leading boys’ schools in the country, the school is renowned for its academic excellence. Leavers go on to an impressive list of destinations including Eton and Harrow, with many achieving scholarships.

Set in 70 acres of stunning grounds, impressive indoor and outdoor facilities are shared by Pre-prep and Prep. These enable an all-round approach to children’s wellbeing through a healthy, well-balanced diet, a wide range of sports for all, regular outdoor activities, outstanding pastoral care and excellent specialist teaching staff across every subject. www.summerfields.com

OPEN DAYS: Pre-Prep - Friday 29th September, 10am - 12.15pm

Prep - Saturday 30th September, 10am - 12.15pm

Family Fun on the Farm

Exhibitions

September What Cogges Means to You

October Cogges Tapestry

The Witch’s House

21-28 October half term

Brothers Grimm-inspired! Halloween outfits encouraged

Cogges Christmas Market

25 & 26 November

Stalls with gifts & decorations

Christmas Trees & music

Christmas at Cogges

Santa’s Grotto from 1 December

What’s On at the Science Oxford Centre

Hands-on discovery

Exploration Zone, outdoor Water Lab & Nature Trails

7 October: Sensory-friendly

Family Day & Live Lab

14, 21, 28 October:

Family Days & Live Labs

Part of:

Book: scienceoxford.com

Science

Family Days every Saturday Monthly STEM CLUBS

Ages 5-12

SUPER SCIENCE

SUNDAY

15 October (all welcome)

Ages 7+

What’s On clubs and classes, something to do for everyone in Oxfordshire

Science Club –Heating and Cooling ages 5 - 9

WHEN: 9th September, 10.00 –11.30, 12.30 – 14.00 and 15.00 – 16.30

WHERE: Science Oxford Centre, Headington

Identify mystery substances by seeing what happens when you heat them, discover what fuel is best for a campfire and see how materials transform over a gas burner. Finally make your own tealight candle to take home!

£10.00 scienceoxford.com

01865 810000

Stagecoach

Performing Arts

WHEN: Autumn Term starts 9th September – Enrol Now!

WHERE: Abingdon, Didcot and Wallingford: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Oxford Headington and Woodstock: Saturdays

Henley and Marlow: Thursdays and Saturdays

Oxford Summertown and Witney: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays

Bicester: Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Oxford Botley: Saturdays

Bring out the best in your child and encourage them to develop excellent communication skills, grow in self-esteem and enjoy the benefits of improved coordination. Suitable for children from age 2.

From £15 for two-week trial

www.stagecoach.co.uk

01483 247404

Dance Classes with Abingdon Dance &

Fitness Studio

WHEN: New term starting September

WHERE: Larkmead Secondary School, Abingdon & West Wing Dance Studio (above Seeney’s pet store), Abingdon

Abingdon Dance offer a wide variety of dance classes to suit dancers of every age, experience level and interest. All classes and workshops are taught by professional choreographers, many of whom have been dancing with us for years. At Abingdon Dance, dance isn’t just an activity, it’s a way of life. www.

abingdondancestudios.

co.uk

07590 394306

Playhouse Youth Theatre

WHEN: Autumn Term starts 19th September, 17.00 – 19.00

WHERE: Oxford Playhouse

For young people (12 – 16 years) who are passionate theatremakers, eager to develop their performance skills and build new friendships. Autumn term will be spent building skills in voice, expression and movement. £75 per term www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Nature Club - Wild Art

ages 5 - 9

WHEN: 23rd September, 10.00 – 11.30, 12.30 – 14.00 and 15.00 – 16.30

WHERE: Science Oxford Centre, Headington

Create sculptural clay impressions of leaves or bark; wax resist leaf rubbings with crayons, paint and watercolours, make Sun prints with light-sensitive paper and try hapa-zome, the beautiful Japanese art of printing colours from plants onto fabric. £10.00 scienceoxford.com

01865 810000

Stay and Play at Summer Fields

WHEN: 5th October and 30th November, 9.30 – 10.30

WHERE: Summer Fields School, Oxford

Fun free activities for children under 4 and their parents to enjoy a taste of Summer Fields Pre-prep and make new friends. Free www.summerfields.com/ preprep/admissions

Science Club –Lego Architects

ages 5 - 9

WHEN: 7th October, 9.45 –11.00 and 11.30 – 12.45

WHERE: Abingdon School

Using a range of materials, make mini-structures strong enough to survive an earthquake, construct submerged spaces for Flounder the fish to hide away, let your imagination run wild and create a Wonderland home for Alice’s Mad Hatter and, for the fairytale ending, build a castle for Cinderella. £9.00 scienceoxford.com

01865 810000

Science Club –

Germbusters, ages 5 - 9

WHEN: 14th October and 4th November

WHERE: Science Oxford Centre, Headington (October) and Abingdon School (November) Become a Germbuster and feel the power of your immune system. Get locked and loaded, and discover the body’s infectionfighting weapons, test materials and objects for cleanliness with UV ‘Glo-germs’ and play fun games to build up immune defences with giant balls and K’nex. scienceoxford.com

01865 810000

If booking any courses, please mention Families Oxfordshire Magazine.

PERFORM WEEKLY DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING CLASSES

WHEN: Autumn Term start in September – Enrol Now!

WHERE: West Oxford Community Centre, Oxford: Wednesdays. The Northcourt Centre, Abingdon: Saturdays and Thursdays. Didcot Methodist Church Hall: Fridays. Benson Youth Hall, Wallingford: Saturdays. Kingsmere Community Centre, Bicester: Wednesdays. Marston United Reformed Church, Oxford: Saturdays

Confidence-building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. To book a FREE class visit www.perform.org.uk/try enquiries@perform.org.uk 020 7255 9120

Families Clubs & Classes

Nature Club – World Earthworm Day (ages 5 - 9)

WHEN: 21st October, 10.00 – 11.30, 12.30 – 14.00 and 15.00 – 16.30

WHERE: Science Oxford Centre, Headington

Unearth the secret life of worms and how they contribute to nature’s ecosystem. Make a jelly worm, learn about composting, see how worms help the soil to grow veg and plants and dig for worms in the woodland.

£10.00, scienceoxford.com

01865 810000

Multi-Activity Holiday Camps (ages 5-13)

WHEN: 23rd – 26th October,

8.30 – 18.00

WHERE: Range of sites across Oxford and Abingdon

A safe and fun environment where every child can flourish and reach their full potential. Every child has a different skill or talent that House of Fun want to help nurture and strengthen, which is why you will find a diverse range of activities to help to bring out the creative side in every child!

£45.00 per day

www.house-of-fun.co.uk

Hiking Heroes

(non-residential, for ages 8 to 13)

WHEN: 23rd – 25th October,

9.30 – 15.30

WHERE: Oxford Railway Station

Half-term will be adventurous! Your child can join Oxford Adventure School for 3 days of walking in nature - with bushcraft challenges along the way - and plenty of communal joy. Everyone achieves their National Outdoor Learning Award.

£128.00 for 3 days

www.OxfordAdventureSchool. com

ibrick Lego® Holiday Camps (ages 6-13)

WHEN: 23rd – 27th October,

8.45 – 16.00

WHERE: Range of sites across Oxford and Abingdon

Use bespoke kits to design, build and innovate with mechanised Lego models. Exciting daily themes, fun-filled games and experiments will inspire children in an atmosphere of enormous fun!

From £50.00 per day

www.house-of-fun.co.uk

Creative Computing Club – It’s Alive! Code your own Monster creation ages 9 - 12

WHEN: 28th October, 10.00 – 11.30, 12.30 – 14.00 and 15.00 – 16.30

WHERE: Science Oxford Centre, Headington Using BBC micro:bits and MakeCode, record spooky noises, add blinking eyes or flashing lights to bring your monstrous creation to life. Hang your decoration in the Science Oxford Centre to scare the living daylights out of their visitors. Spooky outfits optional! £10.00 scienceoxford.com 01865 810000

Holiday Camps (3 – 14 years)

WHEN: October Half Term

WHERE: Various locations

Active Camps provide highquality, school holiday multiactivity, and adventure camps for 3-14 years in Oxfordshire. Children get to participate in indoor and outdoor sports games and activities in a fun, safe and active environment!

www.oxfordactive.co.uk 01865 594325

We teach maths so that children understand it, master it, and love it.

Brick-or-Treat Master Builders Club Workshop for LEGO Fans

WHEN: October Half Term

WHERE: Badgemore Primary School, Henley on Thames (23rd October, 9.30 – 11.30), The Heights Primary School, Caversham (23rd October, 14.30 – 16.30) and Sonning Common Village Hall (24th October, 9.30 –11.30) masterbuildersclub.co.uk

Lego® Master Builders Club - Brick Building Workshops for Children

WHEN: September and October

WHERE: Various locations

Master Builders Club fun workshops start with a short story which is “brought to life” through the models they build. They provide 1000’s of LEGO® or DUPLO® bricks to transform a room into a world of creativity. Our two hour workshops are the perfect way to entertain your aspiring architect, determined designer and incredible inventor! masterbuildersclub.co.uk

Mathnasium Learning Centres

WHEN: Monday-Thursday & Saturday

WHERE: Summertown, North Oxford

By producing a tailor-structured learning plan for each student according to his/her knowledge and skill level, the Mathnasium Method can help children in Years 2 - 12 better understand maths and leap ahead. Try the FREE maths skills assessment/ trial session.

www.mathnasium.co.uk/ northoxford

01865 655968

Gymnastics

WHERE: Various locations across Oxfordshire

Encourage a healthy relationship with movement and confidence by signing your child up to a regular class with a specialist instructor. Use the British Gymnastics Organisation website to locate classes in your area. www.british-gymnastics.org/ discover

Muddy Shrubs Forest Tots

WHERE: Evenley Wood Garden

Activities will include stories, playing games, making bird feeders, making wands, mud painting, making woodland creatures, treasure hunts, hill rolling, mud sliding, mini beast hunts, natural art, den / shelter building, campfires, using real tools such as bow saws, knives and drills and much, much more!

From £60 Pre-school to age 4 www.muddyfeettraining.co.uk

Little Kickers

WHERE: Various locations across Oxfordshire

Four different football classes tailored to different age groups starting with Little Kicks (18 months to 2.5 years) through Junior Kickers (2.5 to 3.5 years) and Mighty Kickers (3.5 to 5 years) up to Mega Kickers (5 to 8 years).

www.littlekickers.co.uk

Water Babies

WHERE: Various locations across Oxfordshire Swimming lessons that will nurture your child’s development from getting used to the sensation of the water to swimming freely using different strokes and being able to keep themselves safe in and around the water.

www.waterbabies.co.uk