Open Morning Saturday 21 September 10 am to 12 noon
Register online today via the school website or scan the QR code admissions@por.gdst.net
Performing Arts Schools
CHICHESTER 07786 336983 stagecoach.co.uk/chichester chichester@stagecoach.co.uk
FAREHAM 07802436358 stagecoach.co.uk/fareham fareham@stagecoach.co.uk
HAVANT AND WATERLOOVILLE 07579 004 288 stagecoach.co.uk/havant havant@stagecoach.co.uk
LIPHOOK & PETERSFIELD 07904 906900 stagecoach.co.uk/liphook liphook@stagecoach.co.uk
PORTSMOUTH 07498 997606 stagecoach.co.uk/portsmouth portsmouth@stagecoach.co.uk
Welcome
Well, it’s back to school already and soon the nights will start drawing in! So make haste while there are still pleasant days and plenty of daylight left and enjoy some family adventures. To entertain the kids, why not pick a family wild-life spotting walk to make the most of the great outdoors.
Don’t miss our article on apps and platforms to help your child with spelling as well as our selection of great graphic novels for reluctant – and other – readers.
Halloween is a favourite time of year for many children so to get them in the mood, don’t forget to download our spooky craft activity and take a look at our Halloween food, craft and sciencethemed special effects pages too!
Finally, in this issue, we have four great giveaways for our readers. Apply inside.
Education Clubs & classes
Early years
Autumn make n’ do’s Best family walks for wildlife spotting
Halloween spooky science
Delicious Halloween delights
Get in touch
Competition winners from our May/June issue
Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list HERE
Apps and platforms to help your child with spelling
Spelling isn’t easy – sometimes even for grown ups! Luckily there are a wealth of tools available to help you and your kids with spelling.
First Words Deluxe
Ideal for toddlers who are just beginning to master letter sounds. Ages 3+. ios
Sir Linkalot
Helps memorise and recall the spelling of high frequency words. Ages 5+. ios & android
Spelling Shed
Popular in schools and great for competition between friends. Ages 5-11. ios & android
DoodleSpell
Tailors spelling exercises to suit a child’s strengths and weaknesses. Ages 5-11. ios & android
Squeebles Spelling Test
Create spelling tests with your choice of words. Ages 5-11. ios & android
Word Wizard for Kids
Great app for independent practice of spelling words. Ages 4-10. ios & android
Your Spelling
Focuses on the words needed for KS1 and KS2 SATs. Ages 5-11. ios
Night Zookeeper
Fun, engaging online programme that increases vocabulary and improves spelling. Ages 6-12. web
Spelling Hangman
Great for challenging your child and makes weekly spelling fun. Ages 4+. ios
Recognising a good state secondary school
By Melanie Sanderson
Choosing a secondary school is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make for your child. Very likely, your two priorities are whether your child will reach their academic potential and whether they will be happy there. Here are my tips on what to look for.
Hot-house or greenhouse?
Is the school educationally aspirational and how does this manifest? Look for relaxed and respectful teacher-pupil relations. They are key to successful learning. Is the library well-stocked and busy? Teacher recruitment and retention is challenging all schools. Ask pupils how often they have cover teachers.
Are pupils regularly assessed?
Performance measures such as Progress 8 are good indicators of how a school adds value as they measure academic attainment rates over time. Are there programmes to stretch the more academic children? What about those with special educational needs and disabilities?
Breadth of curriculum
invest in top notch sports facilities and coaching, others have outstanding creative or performing arts spaces.
READ MORE
SOpenMorning eptember28th
The best state schools offer and value a broad liberal arts education beyond the standard curriculum. For instance, Bohunt School in Hampshire ‘blew the socks off’ the Good Schools Guide with immersion classes in Mandarin. Some of the best state schools
Ditcham Park School
Outdoor learning gives you superpowers!
By Caroline Oglethorpe Head of Nursery and Pre-Prep, Westbourne House School
Some of my happiest moments are spent outdoors, observing the beauty of nature and having adventures, and clearly children enjoy playing outside too. However, have you ever wondered how learning outdoors actually works in nurseries and schools?
Early Years teachers (looking after children aged 0-5) observe significant and positive changes in children when time outdoors is used for high quality learning. So how do nurseries create these opportunities? What does outdoor learning look like in Reception? And can it really give children superpowers?
Here are four reasons it can.
Taking risks!
It can feel counterintuitive to talk about wanting young children to take risks. However, it is now widely recognised that a risk-averse culture undermines children’s confidence
and learning. Take the example of a nursery or school with a climbing stack for its Early Years pupils.
This provides an exciting culture of risk and challenge for these young learners. For children who are not used to taking risks, the chance to climb gives them the opportunity to develop this key skill. Teachers witness the children challenging themselves, setting their own goals, succeeding and becoming more confident and motivated in doing so.
This risk-taking attitude transfers to other areas of physical and intellectual learning. For example, new-found confidence outside leads to an open-minded approach to learning new phonic sounds in the classroom.
Climbing boosts handwriting
The ability to write is an essential skill to learn and a tool for life. It is interesting to understand that developing children’s upper body strength is essential to help them control their hands and fingers.
Helping children with theory of mind
By Usha Patel
Back in 2007, a mum called Sarah told me of an incident involving her then 8-year-old son, Albi. Sarah had fainted in the bathroom of their small flat. As she was coming round, she called out for her son. He said: ‘Yes, I saw you.’ Sarah reported that Albi carried on playing without concern.
READ MORE
Overcoming failure and disappointment
By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble
Whilst studies show that children learn better when they experience failure, no parent likes seeing their child upset or disappointed. It feels right to help them avoid anything seemingly harmful they encounter, whether that be through distraction, bargaining or a quick credit-card swipe.
READ MORE
INDEPENDENT DAY & BOARDING SCHOOL
For girls and boys to 18 years of age
Graphic novels for reluctant readers
Graphic novels can really encourage those kids who don’t embrace reading – and are great for those who do too! Take a look at our selection below.
Phoebe and Her Unicorn by Dana Simpson
Follows the friendship between an awkward girl and a unicorn. Ages 7+.
InvestiGators by John Patrick Green
Comic strip format. This is a wordplay-packed cartoon! Ages 7+.
Wonder Woman by Lisa Yee
Female friendship and bravery in this riproaring, crime-fighting adventure. Ages 9+.
Bumble and Snug and the Angry Pirates by Mark Bradley Great for independent reading Ages 5+.
Cowgirls and Dinosaurs by Lucie Ebrey Crime fighting adventure. Ages 9+.
The Pavee and the Buffer Girl by Siobhan Dowd Great sensitivity and storytelling. Ages 10+.
Hilo: The Boy Who Crashed to Earth by Judd Winick Well-told, gripping scifi story, colourful action and comedy. Ages 6+.
Dog Man by Dav Pilkey
Explores empathy, kindness and persistence. Ages 7.
Meesh the Bad Demon by Michelle Lam
First story in a fantasy graphic series. Fun and fast-paced. Ages 8-12.
Expanded Pre-School provision
At Portsmouth High Pre-School children are inspired, motivated and encouraged to be curious and develop a love of learning.
To enhance provision further, from September 2024, the school is tailoring its approach to teaching children in Pre-School. The size of the teaching space is increasing through the addition of a second classroom giving pupils access to a wider range of activities to enhance their learning.
Classes will be split into a nursery class for the youngest pupils and a Pre-Reception class for older pupils starting Reception in the following September. This change will enable older pupils to focus on their learning in greater depth in readiness for starting school.
Prospective parents are warmly invited to come and explore the new space at an Open Morning on Saturday 21 September.
Call Admissions on 023 9282 4916, EMAIL or book HERE.
Discover Ditcham Park School
As a small, but thriving independent school in the heart of the South Downs National Park, Ditcham Park School offers children an exceptional education from Nursery up to GCSEs.
Pupils leave Ditcham at age 16 ready and equipped to deal with the next phase of their learning with resilience and passion. The school has a strong reputation for sports, academic success and the creative and performing arts with ample opportunities for pupils to really shine in all spheres. Plus, wellbeing is at the heart of everything they do at Ditcham with outstanding pastoral support and a dedicated wellbeing coordinator.
From September, the Nursery will open all year round for 51 weeks of the year to provide parents with more childcare options.
Come and find out more at their next Open Morning on Saturday 28 September.
Find out more HERE.
Boost your child’s confidence with a FREE Perform class
As the buzz of the new school year begins, why not enrich your child’s after-school routine with something truly special.
Perform’s dynamic classes are expertly crafted to enhance your child’s confidence, concentration, communication and co-ordination – skills that complement their academic journey. Sessions are packed with drama-based games and activities which allow reserved children to come out of their shell whilst energetic children have the perfect outlet to express themselves.
‘My son is extremely shy, socially anxious and self-conscious but he LOVES Perform. I’m so grateful to the teacher for making my little boy feel so happy and valued!’
‘The teaching team are truly amazing. They have had such a positive impact on my children’s confidence levels.’
This term, ages 4-7 are off to Outer Space on an intergalactic adventure with the Sparkly Spaceman and the Man on the Moon! While ages 7-12 will enjoy a groovy Greek extravaganza in The Hercules Beat, where Hercules gets everyone dancing to stay fit.
Try a FREE class, book HERE.
NEW CLASS in Chichester Sep 2024
More about Perform’s weekly classes
Confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s, designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and co-ordination.
Book a FREE class in one of the following venues, HERE, EMAIL or call 020 7255 9120.
NEW Chichester: St Michael’s Church Hall, PO19 6PN
Ages 4-7, Monday 4.15pm, Ages 7-12, Monday 5.20pm
Fareham: Catisfield Memorial Hall, PO15 5NN
Ages 4-7, Tuesday 4pm, Ages 7-12, Tuesday 5pm
Petersfield: St Peter’s Hall, GU32 3HZ
Ages 4-7, Monday 4pm, Ages 7-12, Monday 5pm
Southsea: St Simon’s Church Hall, PO5 2PW
Ages 4-7, Monday 4pm, Ages 7-12, Monday 5pm
Dealing with toddler tantrums in public
Understanding toddler tantrums better
Recognise tantrums are a normal part of child development. Identify triggers like hunger, tiredness or frustration.
Know that toddlers lack the emotional regulation skills to handle intense feelings.
Understand that public settings can be overwhelming for toddlers.
Managing tantrums in public
Stay calm and composed; don’t react emotionally.
Acknowledge your child’s feelings and offer comfort.
Use distraction techniques, like showing them something interesting.
Keep interactions brief and avoid lengthy explanations.
Move to a quiet place if possible.
What’s the best way to deal with tantrums?
A guide from the NHS on the best way to handle a troublesome toddler.
Preparing for public outings
Plan outings around your toddler’s schedule.
Bring snacks and toys to keep your toddler occupied.
Set simple rules and expectations before going. Be prepared to leave if necessary.
Practise patience and stay calm.
Post-tantrum strategies
Praise good behaviour once they calm down.
Discuss the tantrum calmly at home later.
Reinforce positive behaviour with rewards.
Teach emotional regulation skills through practice.
Maintain consistency in your responses.
End a toddler tantrum in 30 seconds
Quick effective method principles of gentle parenting, respectful parenting and positive discipline.
Autumn make n’ dos
How about some great autumn activities that truly celebrate the wonderful colours and beauty of this season? From playing with shiny conkers to leaf rubbing, there’s something for everyone!
Conkers
Acorn owl
MAKE HANGING PUMPKINS FOR A TWIG TREE
We asked our friends at Hobbycraft for a spectacularly spooky Halloween craft activity for parents to do with their kids and they’ve come up with these cute pumpkins to hang on a twig tree.
DOWNLOAD HERE
Best family walks for wildlife spotting
We asked our friends at The Outdoor Guide to recommend some of the best UK ‘walks on the WILD side!’
Somerset Levels
Later this year, one of the wonders of the natural world will return to the Somerset Levels - the starling murmurations. Thousands of starlings come to roost here amongst the reedbeds. The peak season is November to February.
The Needles, Isle of Wight
With views out across the English Channel, you may glimpse a pod of dolphins that have become regular visitors here. Surrounded by the sea, this walk also gives you the chance to see marine birds including gannets and shearwaters. This is a longer walk so do consider your child’s age and capabilities.
Regency Walk, London
Even in the heart of London you can go for a walk to see some amazing wildlife. The Regency walk takes you past St James’s Park - well worth a detour to observe the abundant birdlife living on the lake - you might see the pelicans that live there too!
Petworth Park, West Sussex
The deer park in Petworth, West Sussex, is home to between seven and eight hundred fallow deer. The lake also offers the chance to see various ducks and geese.
If you’re a National Trust member, pop into the cafe afterwards for a well earned cuppa and slice of cake.
© Holly Barber
© Holly Barber
© The Outdoor Guide
© Holly Barber
Best family walks for wildlife spotting
We asked our friends at The Outdoor Guide to recommend some of the best UK ‘walks on the WILD side!’
Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour, Dorset
Brownsea Island is a haven for wildlife including red squirrels. Dorset Wildlife Trust also has some hides on the island where you can get glimpses of the resident and visiting birdlife that migrates here during winter.
Blakeney Point, Norfolk
Show your kids wild seals - the Norfolk coastline is a great place for it!
There are colonies of grey and common seals that can be seen on the tidal sands, as well as migratory birds including redshanks, oystercatchers and avocets. This is a long walk though so best for older children.
National Trust Charlecote Park
The grounds of Charlecote Park, on the outskirts of Stratford upon Avon, has been home to a herd of fallow deer for centuries. Legend has it that William Shakespeare was prosecuted for poaching deer from here!
Richmond Park, London
During the autumn, male deer show prowess by clashing antlers with their rivals. Watch the deer rut in Richmond Park in London, home to fallow and red deer. Remember, keep a respectful distance and ensure dogs are on leads. This is a 7-mile circular walk so will only be suitable for older children.
© Holly Barber © Holly Brega
© Terry Whittaker
© Holly Brega
Spooky Halloween science
Create some ghostly, glowing and ghoulish Halloween effects at home with these simple science ideas.
Ghost rocket
Made with simple ingredients which react to propel your ghost to fly.
Halloween lava lamps
Use simple ingredients which react eerily to create magical lamps.
Dancing ghosts
Learn about static electricity by creating ghosts that move by themselves.
Make a galaxy in a jar
Recreate the wonders of the night sky in a jar of magic.
Luminous drinks
Discover the weird effect on some drinks when exposed to UV light.
Ghostly glowing eggs
Examine the spooky reaction that occurs between vinegar and egg shells.
Ghost slime
Make slime that is icycold to touch with just a few ingredients.
Blow up a pumpkin balloon
Using simple science, blow up a pumpkin balloon without touching it.
Fake blood
Add authenticity to a Halloween costume with this concoction.
Delicious Halloween delights
It’s not Halloween without some themed food and there’s as much fun in the making of it, as in the eating! Get the kids in the kitchen helping with some of these ideas.
Watermelon Jacko’-Lantern
Scary Halloween jelly
Sticky toffee apples
Spider pizzas
Skeleton biscuits
Mummy hot dogs
Frozen banana ghosts
Pumpkin Rice Krispie treats
Monster burgers
Fun Halloween craft projects
So much of the excitement of Halloween is in the anticipation, in choosing a costume and decorating the house. Here are some great Halloween craft ideas which will add to the fun.
Halloween sensory surprise box
Ghost leaves
paper plate spider’s web
CBeebies Trick or Treat bags Rock Skulls
Halloween fuse beads decorations
Easy paper craft ghosts
Threading
Halloween bat
Pumpkin pinata
2025 Top family holiday destinations
We asked Ashley Lutz from Travel Counsellors to pick some family holiday ideas for 2025 and here’s what she came up with.
Switzerland
Exciting museums, snow parks & slopes, actionpacked rope parks, toboggan runs, pristine lakes/rivers.
Mexico
The Rivera Maya (btwn Cancun & Tulum) is perfect for a family beach holiday.
Abu Dhabi
Great for kids’ activities and winter sun, good value, relaxing, lovely beaches.
South Africa
Spot the Big Five on safari! Plus, great beaches and adventure activities.
USA
From theme parks to surfing, tailor-make your holiday and create something unique.
Sri Lanka
Stunning landscapes and beaches, bustling cities, culture, wildlife, summer or winter.
Iceland
In Reykjavík: restaurants, loads of children’s activities. Northern Lights, whales, live volcanoes.
Croatia
Enjoy an off-the-beatenpath holiday with quaint villages and secluded beaches.
Slovenia
Active holiday with a twist! Lakes, mountains, beach and national parks.
Hama Beads Gabby’s Dollhouse Maxi Tubs
Gabby’s Dollhouse
Funny videos to get the kids laughing
In the often-stressed lives of parents it can be challenging to be playful and share laughter with our kids. So, for the moments when you can’t do this, keep these funny videos up your sleeve!
Kids’
jokes
The Bounce Patrol gang tell family-friendly jokes for kids of all ages.
Topsy and Tim funny moments
Topsy and Tim pick favourite funny moments from the popular CBBC show.
The Great Cookie Caper
Children’s soft toys play characters in this humorous tale of missing cookies.
The Terrible Plop
Funny rhyming story by Ursula Dubosarsky, read aloud.
Farm
animals
A video with farm toys playing, jumping and making silly, funny sounds.
Tiny Dog, Big Stick Watch Bosco the Dachshund navigate a park in London.
The Duck Song
Funny story about an annoying duck and a lemonade stand.
Talking
twin babies
Your kids (and you) will be in hysterics watching these chatterboxes.
If You Laugh I’m Starting this Book Over
Riotous read-aloud book that insists listeners must not laugh.
Feed, clean, play with and look after your pet – and see what character you develop
5 bundles available –2 pets per bundle
