Families Leeds Nov-Dec 2015

NOV DECEM EMBER BER 20 15

ISSUE 4 3

LEEDS’ FAVOURITE PARENTING MAGAZINE

CHRISTMAS WHAT’S ON SPECIAL: EVENTS, THEATRE & WHERE’S SANTA?

Contact: info@babyravenorth.co.uk • www.babyravenorth.co.uk

City Varieties Music Hall presents

Fri 27 November 2015 – Sun 10 January 2016

Written by PETER ROWE Directed by PAUL HART Designed by SEAN TURNER Musical Director TRISTAN PARKES Lighting Designer JASON SALVIN Recommended for ages 3+

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Come and discover how your child will flourish at Fulneck School

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7:00pm—9:00pm 7:00pm —9:00pm

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9:30am 9:30am—1:00pm —1:00pm

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Let’s teach your baby to swim!

www.waterbabies.co.uk

Hello & Welcome Back…

Looking back at photos of last Christmas, I am reminded what a rich source of material it would have been for my old column; Diary of an Imperfect Mum. However, in a festive twist, it was not me who committed yet another fail, but the Tooth Fairy.

What’s that got to do with Christmas? I hear you cry. Well, as we discovered first hand on December 24, the Tooth Fairy is never off-duty.

My eldest lost his first wobbly tooth on Christmas Eve, causing something of a double whammy in the world of special visitors.

That night, not only did we leave out some water and a carrot for Rudolph, but we also served up two mince pies and two small glasses of sherry, so that both Father Christmas and the Tooth Fairy could indulge in a little refreshment.

And indulge they clearly did. Thankfully, the fairy remembered to leave a gold(ish) coin under my little boy’s pillow. But she forgot to take his tooth away.

When he woke up and saw what had happened, he was actually quite pleased. He’d been a little bit sad about having to give it away.

I suggested to him that the tooth fairy was leaving it as a special present, since it was Christmas. I explained that it would be the only time this would happen though. In the year that’s passed since, he’s lost several more teeth, and each time they’ve been collected in exchange for money under the pillow, the day they fell out. Clearly, the Tooth Fairy has learned a valuable lesson about drinking on the job. Hopefully I’ll never have to cover for her again!

Merry Christmas

Thanks to Justin Leeming for this issue’s festive front cover featuring Fred & Lucinda. www.jgl-design.co.uk

Contents…

8–9

GIFT GUIDE Fun ideas for Christmas presents

10

WHAT A BOOST How to give your child confidence

11

THE FALL OUT What to do when friends argue

12 – 13

SCHOOL MATTERS Education news

18 – 19

WHERE’S SANTA We’ve got his itinerary in the run up to the big day!

20 – 23

WHAT’S ON Our guide to everything that’s going on in November and December

Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Claire Bottomley www.familiesleeds.co.uk

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

CONTACT US: 07799 667 041 • editor@familiesleeds.co.uk CIRCULATION: We distribute 18,000 copies of the magazine free of charge through schools, nurseries, playgroups, clubs and classes, selected retail outlets and sports centres. Read by more than 40,000 parents. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know.

DESIGNED BY: JUSTIN LEEMING • 07745 038 005 • www.jgl-design.co.uk PRINTED BY: CHARLESWORTH PRESS, Wakefield • www.charlesworth.com

Win! Win! Win! IIWe have a beautiful handmade nursery lamp toII IIgive away to one lucky reader.II In an intricate design inspired by Alice in Wonderland, it is part of a range of lamps

by Noah and the Bear, especially created to provide just enough muted light to feed and change a baby during the night.

Making the perfect gift for a first Christmas, Christening, or soon-to-be Mum, it is back-lit in a box frame to create a beautiful silhouette. A stylish piece of original art during the day, and comes to life when lit.

For your chance to win, find Families Leeds on Facebook. If you haven’t already, like our page and comment on the competition post

by November 30.

3

NEWS

Got an even Tell us y t planned? our new s!

Em editor@ ail details to families le eds.co.u and we k ’ll try include and it.

Families

NEWS… Play centre hosts BREASTFEEDING CAFE

Hickory Dickory Dock play session at City Varieties Music Hall

Pre-school Session at CITY THEATRE City Varieties Music Hall has launched interactive themed play sessions for under-3s. Hickory Dickory Dock runs on Tuesday mornings from 10.30am to 11.15am. Little ones and their parents or carers are invited to play, sing, create and discover in the inspiring setting of the 150 year old building.

With a chance to glimpse behind the curtain of a working theatre and plenty of imaginative play, it promises to be a perfect way to introduce children to the performing arts.

Sessions are followed by 15 minutes for coffee and a chat, with juice and a snack provided for the little ones.

All activities support the Early Years Foundation Stage, but more importantly, City Varieties Music Hall assures that children will have fun and develop confidence in a new and stimulating environment.

The cost of each session is £3.50 for a first child and £2 for each additional sibling over 12 months. Booking is essential as places are limited so will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

To book your free taster session or for more information call 0113 391 7781 or email learning@cityvarieties.co.uk.

Tiny Toes Play Centre in Horsforth continues to be a hive of activity for parents and little ones. Primarily a soft play for under 8s, it also offers fantastic music, story and craft sessions, as well as a host of other additional events and services.

The newest is a breastfeeding cafe, which Tiny Toes hosts every Wednesday during term time.

Clare Zanetti, director of Tiny Toes said,“We’re hoping parents utilise this new free service. Kathy, a trained NCT breastfeeding counsellor is there for support and advice, and you don’t have to be an NCT member; anyone can come.

“The support is drop-in so no bookings necessary and Kathy will do her utmost to get feeding problems back on track.”

There’s no entry charge for babies under six months. Clare added,“Just come along, meet other parents and grab one of our excellent smooth coffees – yes, we do decaf!”

For more information visit www.tinytoesplaycentre.co.uk.

Be a SUPERHERO… BBC Children in Need is back on Friday, November 13, and it’s asking people across the UK to dress as their childhood hero to help make a difference to young lives.

And if you don’t want to dress as a superhero, you could pick up some Pudsey ears for £2.50, take a selfie wearing them and post it on Twitter or Instagram @BBCCiN using #CiN, encouraging others to follow your lead.

The official fundraising pack is available for download from bbc.co.uk/pudsey. For more information, visit www.bbc.co.uk/corporate2/childreninneed.

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4

News

Little Green Fingers outdoor playgroup

Outdoor Playgroup COMING SOON… Little Green Fingers, a free playgroup aimed at helping tots and their parents and carers to grow their own food, meet new friends and share ideas, will be launching soon in Headingley and Kirkstall.

Organised by Incredible Edible Kirkstall, which promotes social sustainable healthy living, it will be starting in spring.

For more information, to discuss volunteering opportunities or to book a place, email incrediblekirkstall@gmail.com.

Send your Child a Letter from Santa and support the NSPCC The NSPCC has teamed up with Santa to send personalised letters to children.

Each of Santa’s letters comes with illustrations and stories tailored to specific age groups. Parents can choose whether the letter is signed by ‘Santa’ or ‘Father Christmas’, and each comes with an age appropriate game. PS messages can also be added.

For a suggested donation of £5 parents can request a letter from Santa up until December 22 at www.nspcc.org.uk/santa.

Protect Against MENINGITIS B A new vaccine to protect babies against meningitis B has been introduced.

Since September 2015, all babies have routinely been given the meningitis B vaccine at their regular vaccination appointments.

The scheme should protect babies and children against 90% of meningococcal group B bacteria.

The vaccine will also be offered to all students who are starting university this year.

Fri 4 Dec 2015 – Sat 9 Jan 2016

Paul Holman Associates and Leeds City Council present

onal e i t i d a r T Leeds’ Pantomim

CHARLEY MACLAREN

TICKETS FROM

£9.50

STEPHEN RICHARDS

Back by popular demand

911’s

JEZ EDWARDS

LEE BRENNAN

Director: David McNeill Musical Director: Marc Yarrow Choreographer: Clare Kennedy

Carriageworks Theatre, The Electric Press, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD

5

News

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Child Friendly Campaign A campaign to make Leeds the best city in the UK for children and young people to grow up in has celebrated its third birthday.

Child Friendly Leeds started as a council initiative and has gone from strength to strength to become a city wide campaign.

You may have seen the orange thumb logo when you’ve been out and about in Leeds.

The aim is to make sure children and young people live in a place where they feel supported, valued and enjoy growing up.

Currently there are 180,000 children and young people living in Leeds. People in the city have been asked to play their part and put children and young people at the heart of everything they do.

Over the past three years, 350 ambassadors have signed-up, pledging to improve the lives of young people in the city. They are individuals, partners and organisations – including businesses,

charities and the public sector. Anybody is welcome to get involved, with more people joining the campaign every day.

Councillor Lucinda Yeadon, Leeds City Council’s executive member for children and families, said,“It’s fantastic to see how much our ambition has grown over the past three years. A range of people from across the city have come together, helping to make Leeds a better place to grow up in.

For more information on Child Friendly Leeds, email: childfriendlyleeds@leeds.gov.uk, or visit www.leeds.gov.uk/ childfriendlyleeds.

BRAIN TUMOUR RESEARCH If you’re looking for charity Christmas cards, Brain Tumour Research has a fantastic selection to choose from.

They’re available in packs of 10. The charity is also asking if you could sell some cards to raise vital funds.

A spokesperson for the charity said,“Our boxes of cards contain 100 packs of 19 different designs.

We’d love to send you a box to sell to your friends, family and work colleagues!”

For more information or to buy some cards, call 01296 733 011.

The The magic magic o off Christmas Christmas begins begins

Please donate

©NSPCC 2015 Registered charity England and Wales 216401. Scotland SC037717.

w with ith a L Letter etter ffrom rom S Santa anta Make Christmas dreams come true for your child with a magical Letter from Santa straight from the North Pole. There are eight fantastic new designs and lots of new ways to make the letter personal for your child. All we suggest is a £5 donation to help support our work keeping vulnerable children safe.

With enchanting new stories and even a Baby’s First Christmas poem, a Letter from Santa can bring a smile to children everywhere this festive season.

Get your Christmas off to the perfect start and order yours today.

Choose Choose from from 8 magical magical designs! designs!

V Visit isit n nspcc.org.uk/Santa spcc.org.uk/Sant

Call Call 0845 0845 130 130 0 3073 307

6

£5

for each letter

HORRID HISTORY HOP through Horsforth…

The team behind July’s successful Horsforth Walk Of Art has collaborated with local charity, Bone Cancer Research Trust, to bring a completely free family history tour to the town.

This stinky saunter will navigate you through 250 years of Horsforth's Town Street. Watch out for poachers, avoid the stocks and thank your stars that you're not an 1800s school child and still have all your fingers!

The trail is best suited to ages six and over but younger children will still enjoy a little romp down the high street whilst you learn some fun facts.

Local mum and Walk of Art organiser Lara Rule has been working with local historian Mark Saville and Horsforth Museum’s Susan Watson, as well as Made In The Middle Illustration on the project.

The map will be made freely available to download from the Walk of ART website and the facebook page facebook.com/ horsforthwalkofart or you can request a copy by email to lara.rule@hotmail.com.

Lara said,“I’ve caught the creative bug and want Horsforth to be full of fun things to do that engages the community.” Bursting with ideas, she is keen to start work on Horsforth History Hop number two, hopping down either New Road Side or Station Road. She added, “So if you are a local business who would like to sponsor a creative community collaboration, get in touch!”

Viewpoint

THE WORLD a cc ord in g to

DAD Mike Smith ponders a festive family dilemma: where to spend Christmas

TALES FROM THE

tweenage

YEARS

Sarah Butters considers the arguments for and against a good debate…

My daughter, Isobel, likes a debate. Specifically, she likes to debate with me. Every day. Recent topics that have come before ‘this house’ include the motion that one’s bedroom should be tidied, homework should be completed without a tweenage tantrum and social media should be monitored.

Although there have been no official adjudicators around, I’m pretty sure I lost all three. Also in our back catalogue ‘this house’ has heard strong representations for the proposal that thumping your sister when no one is looking is fine and the watching of 15 certificate films when you have just turned 12 is completely acceptable. I expect there are plenty more battles ahead.

While the daily debates within our home are pretty exhausting, they’re proving to be good practice for our would-be QC. Isobel’s ‘skills’ have come to the attention of her teachers and today she’s headed into school to try out for a position in a class debate team.

The subject is ‘This house believes that pets should be banned’ and given the fifth member of our family is a much loved red Cavalier King Charles Spaniel called Ruby, Isobel is pretty fired up. She’s timed her opening speech, figured out her rebuttals and has even got a prop or two. I pity the poor pupils who she’s up against.

I only have myself to blame. Both girls have been brought up to believe they have a voice that’s worth hearing. My husband and I have created an environment where we encourage differences of opinion. However, faced with the forthcoming rollercoaster that is the teenage years, it’s a parenting approach I’m beginning to regret.

Sometimes I think I’d like a home where I can yell the phrase ‘because I said so’ but I’m not sure that would set the girls up for a life in the real world. Fighting your corner, even if it is for a later bedtime or a bit more freedom, is a real life skill.

So in the spirit of helping my children develop, I anticipate playing host to many more heated discussions in the months and years ahead. Topics I’m particularly excited about include ‘Money grows on trees – Discuss’ and another I’d like to revisit is the proposal that ‘This house believes that my mother knows nothing about anything.’ God help me when my younger daughter joins the team.

I’ll have absolutely no chance.

Christmas preparations have been going on for some time now.

Every toy shop visit from August onwards has involved a discussion about whether the boys can wait until Santa pays a call, or if they will just have to blow all their pocket money there and then.

The traditional Christmas songs are already putting in an appearance – ‘jingle bells, Batman smells, Robin flew away’ is still a firm favourite – and Big Brother is rehearsing his part in the Christmas play. Their school years alternate between Easter and Christmas shows, which avoids the Nativity overload, but also means there’s no escape for us, with the boys being in adjoining years.

Well, that comes with the territory, as the saying goes. But as Christmas is coming and the goose is getting fat, now comes the chance to cause a big family spat. In spite of the peace-on-earth, goodwill-to-all-men bonhomie plastered all over the advertisements, there’s a truly nerve-wracking undercurrent that forces its way to the surface as November gives way to December.

It is, of course, the question of where to spend Christmas – at home or with relatives. The biggest headache as the festive season approaches is deciding not who to please, but who to disappoint.

The boys know very well what’s coming on Christmas morning, and don’t want to step outside their own front door, at least until the living room floor has disappeared under a sea of wrapping paper. Then of course it gets worse; the quickest way to cause an explosion is to drag them away from their new toys and bundle them into the car.

And so, the negotiations get under way. I’m sure Middle Eastern weapon inspections are discussed in a more direct manner. Do we snub the grandparents? What, after all the money and care they’ve lavished on the boys?

OK, could we drive over there during Christmas Day? That means forcibly separating them from the presents they’ve just opened. Good luck with that, as the Americans say. Well, what about going over on Christmas Eve and leaving Santa a note before we go? Right, so he leaves the presents at home and the boys are fifty miles away. That’ll cheer ‘em up and no mistake.

What to do, what to do?

The eventual, if unpopular answer wasn’t based on logic or indeed logistics. There will be many family occasions to come, but the boys will only be little for a few years. Once they’ve metamorphosed into Kevin the Teenagers I and II, some of the magic of Christmas will have gone forever. And I want them to enjoy that magic for as long as possible. So Christmas Eve and Christmas Day will be spent at home, with the family visits being postponed until Boxing Day. We can’t please everybody, so all we can do is to make the festivities as special as possible for those who mean the most to us. And I have to confess, when I was the boys’ age, I always hated Yuletide family visits too.

7

Gift Guide

Christmas GIFT GUIDE…

“Something a little different for a birthday or just to treat your child this is the shop to have a look in.”

Gillian, Harrogate

IIBuying gifts is such a personal thing – so why not make it personalII

45 Cold Bath Road Harrogate, HG2 0NL

IIby shopping locally for unusual and unique presents that are destinedII

EAT • SLEEP • DRESS • PLAY

IIto delight. Here’s our guide to the hidden treasures on your doorstep.II

Add a splash of colour: Firefly Pottery

Children will love to make their own Christmas offerings at a pottery cafe. Both Firefly Pottery on Town Street in Horsforth and Jackrabbits Pottery on Roundhay Road have lots of festive inspiration, and plenty of things for you to decorate, large and small.

Why not print a Christmas bauble with a baby’s footprint, or ask a child to write their name and age on it. It will be an instant family heirloom and there’s nothing a grandparent or doting uncle and aunty would love more.

Ha in Y ndm ork ade shi re

beautiful handmade cake pops birthdays weddings baby showers

www.popaliciouscakepops.co.uk 07759 029138

Jackrabbits Pottery Paint your own pottery studio A: 633a Roundhay Road, Leeds, LS8 4BA T: 0113 318 9315 W: www.jackrabbitspottery.com 8

Jackrabbits Pottery

Consumables make good presents – drinks and nice things to eat are always welcomed!

But instead of something mass-produced, why not go for something handmade, artisan and fun.

Popalicious offer amazing intricately designed cake pops, for £2.50 each, and its Christmas range includes Santa, Elf, Penguin, Gingerbread Man, Christmas Tree, Gingerbread House and Christmas Pudding. An Elf and Santa Cake Pop Gift Sack containing a

Popalicious – new chocolate coated Oreos

selection of four Christmas Themed Cake Pops is available for £12.

And new for this year: Chocolate Coated Oreos. They’re coated in the best couverture Belgium Chocolate and decorated with a bit of Popalicious magic.

They are £2 individually and come in Santa, Reindeer, Snowman designs. Gift boxes of four or six are available for £10 and £15.

Gift Guide

For unusual children’s gifts and stocking fillers, it’s definitely worth a trip to Little Alligators on Cold Bath Road in Harrogate. There’s a fabulous range of classic card games for £6, which make great stocking fillers that are sure to entertain during any lull in the festive period.

You’ll also find a huge range of coloured pens, pencils and stationary that would be the highlight of any stocking.

And Little Alligators is the place to go in the festive run-up too. It’s a proud stockist of Elf On

The Shelf. Have you heard of him? He’s a scout elf sent directly from Santa to help countdown to his big arrival. It’s a tradition that’s captured the imagination of children all over the world and is becoming popular here. £29.99.

For advent calendars that could be used year after year, there are several to choose from, including a Christmas nativity set of popular nesting dolls, a charm bracelet and a traditional nativity scene.

Win! Win! Win! IIWe’re huge fans of Orchard Toys, which hasII IIjust re-launched its classic Shopping List game, II IIalong with two Shopping List Extras packs:II IIClothes and Fruit & Veg.II We have one of the new games to give away, along with extra packs.

For your chance to win it, send an email to editor@familiesleeds.co.uk with the words SHOPPING LIST as the title by November 30.

IIWe also love the family comedy film Nativity,II IIso we’re pleased to have three copies of Nativity 3:II IIHey dude, where’s my Donkey? To give away.II Starring Martin Clunes and Catherine Tate, Nativity 3 is the perfect Christmas film for all the family.

The pupils of St Bernadette’s and their much-loved, madcap teacher Mr Poppy (Marc Wooton) are back for their biggest adventure yet involving fantastic flashmobs, excitable elves, Christmas carols and Archie the donkey.

Nativity 3 is available on DVD, Blu-ray, 3 Disc Triple Pack DVD and Download, or for your chance to win a copy of the DVD, email editor@familiesleeds.co.uk with the title NATIVITY 3 by November 30.

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Families Leeds Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter

Great play for the under-8s, parties and daily activities, plus yummy food and bean to cup coffee

30 TOWN STREET, HORSFORTH Phone 0113 2588856 • www.tinytoesplaycentre.co.uk

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9

Parenting

Confidence

TRICKS‌ Creating Confident children, by Liat Hughes Joshi Confidence is just as important in life – if not more so – than a brace of A grades or endless extra-curricular skills. It’s vital to emotional wellbeing and something most of us hope our children will develop.

Confidence is about being comfortable with who you are, willing to give things a go – even if you’re not sure you’ll succeed – and trusting your own abilities and judgement.

But how can we instil this feeling in our children, particularly if it doesn’t come naturally to them?

their friend’s house with them initially, then you just staying for a little while at the start, then next time, they might be happy to go alone.

Accept your child’s starting point

Address their concern and provide plenty of reassurance

Not all children – or adults – are confident by nature (wouldn’t life be boring if we were all the same?) and whilst we can encourage self-belief, transforming a shy or anxious child into a ‘life and soul of the party’ type, is probably an unrealistic aim.

Try to avoid making comments to your child such as how you wish they were more confident, or less shy because, in effect, you’re saying you don’t value them as they are – a real confidence crusher.

Accept your child’s personality and ‘starting point’; it might be different to yours, their sibling’s, friends’ or classmates’ and that’s absolutely fine.

Don’t force them into situations they aren’t comfortable with In most scenarios, one of the worst things you can do for a young child who’s unsure is to push them in at the deep end with something when they aren’t ready. They need to trust you when taking on new experiences and doing this damages that trust.

Take small steps to encourage confidence Find opportunities to stretch just a bit beyond what your son or daughter is comfortable with at a time. So that could be going to

Work out what their fear is Often a child will have niggling worries holding them back in a specific situation. So perhaps “If I put my hand up in class, I might get the answer wrong and the other children will laugh at me�.

Pin down their concern.

Talk about similar situations you experienced as a child, when you were afraid of something, and how it worked out for you.

Keep praise special If you tell them everything they do is wonderful all the time, positivity loses power. Keep praise for when it’s truly warranted and focus on effort rather than just results. This way, when they do do something amazing, your comments will have more impact.

Step back sometimes and let them ‘have a go’ – land that helicopter!

Helicopter parenting – hovering over your child, stepping in to resolve the slightest issue or preventing them from failing – is a barrier to building confidence. Children need to find their own solutions, attempt things their way sometimes and take sensible risks. Sure, you can guide and advise but try not to jump in and take over too quickly.

Whether it’s allowing your three-year-old to choose her own outfit or your ten-year-old to walk to the post box alone, letting go is a crucial confidence builder.

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10

Parenting

Dealing with the

FALL-OUT How to help your child cope with playground arguments,

by Liat Hughes Joshi Relax (a bit): it’s normal Ask primary school teachers and they’ll doubtless tell you that kids fall out (and in again) as quickly as a round of Hokey Cokey.

It’s normal and most squabbles are soon forgotten: kids don’t bear grudges the way grown-ups tend to. Unfortunately this knowledge won’t console your heartbroken child much, so…

Reassure, hug and listen Even if it’ll probably blow over, your child might well feel like their world is collapsing. Give hugs, provide shoulders to cry on and tissues.

Help them to help themselves Once they’re calmer, instead of providing straight solutions, encourage your child to think through what they could do to resolve this, with guidance from you behind the scenes. If there’s been a misunderstanding, how could they instigate chat to explain? If the other child is consistently mean to them, who else could they play with instead?

appropriate. Plus your son or daughter might find it embarrassing if mum or dad piles in to sort their playground problems out.

Proceed with caution with the other parents This is a minefield; many parents will never accept their offspring has done anything wrong. The children will probably make up before the week’s out, potentially leaving an awkward feud between the parents (who you’ll have to see at the school gates for the next however many years!)

If they confront you, and the kids’ argument was relatively minor, it’s sensible to suggest ‘let’s leave the children to sort it out’, or similar. If goings-on were serious, perhaps say that you would rather the school dealt with it.

When to speak to the teacher…

If the dispute involved physical violence, becomes persistent, and/or your child starts not wanting to go to school or is having trouble sleeping, then do raise it with their teacher. They can then keep a closer eye on the children, intervening if necessary.

Resist the temptation to wade in!

See this as a learning experience

Your parental instincts might urge you to tackle the little blighter concerned, or their parents, but hold back. Wait and see if everything settles by itself. Confronting the other child isn’t fair or

There might have been tears but chances are your child will have learnt more about relationships and friendships along the way.

11

Education

MAKING WAVES: Fulneck’s Seismology Workshop A day of specialist teaching in the science of earthquakes has taken place at Fulneck School. Part of the Fulneck Seismology project, the event, hosted by the school’s physics department, also included students from The Grammar School at Leeds and Batley Girls’ High School.

Students and their teachers learned about different types of seismic waves, designing seismometers, locating earthquakes by triangulation and searching for patterns in where earthquakes occur. They also looked into discovering the frequency distribution of the different magnitudes of earthquakes.

The project, which is supported by Erasmus+, sees the Fulneck Physics department involved in outreach projects which benefit other schools. Fulneck has a thriving seismology club, and students presented their work to guests and acted as team leaders in the workshop.

During the event, Paul Denton from the The British Geological Survey talked to the students about possible careers in seismology and what seismologists do.

Principal Deborah Newman said,“We are delighted to have been joined today by so many young scientists keen to further their understanding of this subject. Today’s workshop is a prime example of the cutting edge science in which our students are engaged at Fulneck School, and I am very proud of their involvement in hosting and presenting their knowledge and expertise at this event. I hope that as a result of their experience today, our visiting students will be motivated into studying physics and science in general at A level and beyond.�

T: 07814 431653 @smlhandscancook Small Hands Can Cook

www.smallhandscancook.com 12

Paul Denton from The British Geological Society with students from Fulneck School

‘Truly Exceptional’ Head BIDS FAREWELL Pupils, staff and parents at a Horsforth primary school are waving farewell to a much loved head teacher.

Kathie Rhodes has been in charge of Horsforth Featherbank Primary School since 1991. In that time, the school has achieved an Outstanding rating by Ofsted in four successive inspections – something only one school in every thousand has Kathie Rhodes achieved.

Mrs Rhodes told pupils,“I will be saying goodbye because I intend to retire after being a teacher for 40 years, which is a long time! However, here’s a reminder – ‘Once a Featherbanker, Always a Featherbanker’.�

John Millar, Chair of Governors said,“Kathie’s record as a head teacher has been truly exceptional – she has led a hard working team through a period of significant change at the school whilst inspiring a huge range of activities to supplement the core curriculum offer.�

Education

FROEBELIAN welcomes new Head Teacher

Catherine Dodds

It was an exciting start to the academic year for The Froebelian School in Horsforth as it welcomed new Head Teacher, Catherine Dodds. Catherine has joined The Froebelian School from the Grammar School at Leeds where she was a Deputy Head of the junior school.

Catherine takes over the reins from John Tranmer, who left the school after 24 years as Headmaster.

He has taken up the post of chairman of the Independent Association of Prep Schools.

Mrs Dodds said,“I have always taught in the independent sector and have had the pleasure of working in both single sex and co-educational environments. I have also spent time as Chair of Governors at my local primary school, which has been an incredible opportunity to develop my understanding of the maintained sector. I am passionate about children’s learning and developing the whole child through a range of stimulating, challenging life and learning experiences.”

Concerns over calls for Schools to Provide Childcare Education Secretary Nicky Morgan has said that schools should take “reasonable steps” to provide childcare for the whole length of the working day during term time and the school holidays too.

As part of this move, parents are to be given the right to request that their children’s schools put this care structure into place.

However, the funding for this has not been agreed.

Head teachers have said that this idea would have to be looked at “extremely carefully to ensure it is not just a popular gimmick.”

Russell Hobby, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, has responded to say that while giving care for children while parents are working is a good idea, there are several reasons to be wary of the Government’s promise. Budget cuts and recruitment issues are just two of the reasons why schools might not be able to provide care from early in the day until after parents finish work.

“Extending provision beyond 38 weeks, providing care outside of term time, can also prove very difficult for schools because of staffing and a lack of private provision,” said Mr Hobby.

He continued,”Parents can ask but the government must guarantee that a school's decision is respected. Otherwise, it is merely going to provoke conflict between schools and their communities and would undermine the decision-making of head teachers.”

Inspiring Tuition: Free Trial Explore Learning centres are offering free trial sessions in Leeds and Bradford.

The centres provide maths and English tuition for five to 14 year olds of all abilities. The centres are open seven days a week, enabling tuition to fit into busy family life.

As Explore members, children work with tutors who are enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme, and all Explore courses map to the national curriculum.

To find out more or book a free trial visit www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Next to Moortown imary P Prrim School

Loving L ovin g Care C are an andd Superb S uperb Education Educatio Educ a tion o Foreign Foreign languages, languages, creative art, music, gardening gardening and exploring the the world world!!

Come and join us for the best day ever ever, verr, day after day day,, in our outstanding nursery The Old Chapel, Shadwell Lane, Leeds. LS17 6DR t: 07766 808 257 e: leedsmontnurtury@aol.co.uk

www.yorkshiremontessorinursery.co.uk www w..yorkshiremontessorinursery yorkshiremontessorinursery.co.uk .co.uk 13

C lubs & C lasses Kate Lucas & Amy Balding with some Smartypants pupils

SMARTYPANTS:

Talking the Same Language When two Leeds mums met on the school run, it was almost meant to be.

Or perhaps we should say, Comme il faut...

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OT only were Kate Lucas and Amy Balding’s eldest children starting in the same reception class, their youngest ones – just babies – were born on the same day. And Kate and Amy soon realised they had a lot more in common too.

Both have degrees in French and Spanish. Both studied in France and Spain. Both have been on exchange programmes, home stays and worked ski seasons in France and Spain, and both still love to travel there to enjoy the French and Spanish culture.

Amy even got married in Spain.

Between them, they have a wealth of experience in languages, French and Spanish culture and teaching at both primary and

“

Imagination is more important than knowledge.

Knowledge is limited, IMAGINATION ENCIRCLES THE WORLD!

”

EINSTEIN

01943 466 230 www.thelittlegreenfrog.co.uk 14

secondary level. Add to this their shared belief that children should have access to a language when they are young and able to learn quickly, and Voila – Smartypants, providing classes for three to 11 year olds, was born.

“Languages are not offered in all schools in the UK currently and not all kids get the opportunity,” explained Amy. “We both believe every child should have the opportunity to learn a language during their early years, when they have the ability to absorb so much, so quickly.”

Kate added,“Our lessons are built around the theme of discovery and exploration of the language, so children feel like a whole new world is opening up before them.”

The scheme they’ve designed ensures a solid understanding of the language which not only helps build confidence but really helps children feel prepared when it comes time for secondary school.

“Whilst our classes are fun and fast paced, learning and progression in the foreign language is at the core of everything we do,” explained Kate. “Smartypants classes are tailored to the age and stage of each individual child and we ensure that their learning complements and enhances the curriculum they experience in schools as well as giving them a very strong foundation on which to build in Key Stage Three, when they arrive at secondary school.”

Amy added,“Knowing what kids respond to is a skill we have both acquired through our time teaching, working across France and Spain and more recently in the UK. Not to mention, we’ve collectively got five kids under six of our own – so we get plenty of practice!”

Smartypants classes are running now across Leeds.

For more information call 07717 811 937, email hello@smartypantskids.co.uk or visit www.smartypantskids.co.uk.

C hildcare

LITTLE GREEN FROG

Leaps into its Tenth Year Ruth Johnson teaching at The Little Green Frog Nursery

T

HEY were the first babies and toddlers to, well, toddle through the doors of The Little Green Frog nursery on Weston Lane, 10 years ago. “Some had gone on to school together, others had met up at secondary school, and others hadn’t seen each other since they were at nursery. It was really lovely to see them all back together,� said nursery owner and teacher Ruth Johnson.

Ruth’s own children, Stanley, nine, and seven-year-old Frank, were among the children returning to their nursery to celebrate. “It was very special to have them there,� says Ruth. “They always say they are proud of me for my work at nursery and they are my inspiration.�

This pretty much sums up the ethos of Little Green Frog. It is personal, and puts each individual child at the heart of everything. “I come from a teaching background and it was something I always wanted to do, to work with children and own my own business,� explains Ruth.

She has built up a long-standing team of staff. “Because we’re independent, the team and their skills are hand-picked. Their individual contributions are really valued,� she said. “Five members of staff have post graduate qualifications in childcare. We do think quite deeply about what we’re doing.�

This year in Otley, a group of young people gathered for a very special celebration – and something of a reunion.

The nursery is divided into the Raindrops rooms for babies and toddlers up to twoand-a-half, and the Sunbeams room for children from two-and-a-half to five.

It is situated next to Ashfield Primary School, but children can come from anywhere, and have come from as far away as Bolton Abbey and Harrogate. However, the majority of children live in Otley and they go to a variety of schools in the town. “We’re very much part of the community,� says Ruth.

The nursery likes to make the most of the surrounding countryside, and also its own outdoor space. “We are lucky with the rural setting on the edge of town, so we can look up and see Otley Chevin and there’s a field next door to us with cows and sheep, and we can safely access the countryside,� says Ruth. “We have treble and quad buggies so the babies can go out and do things like feed the ducks.�

Nutrition is something that is taken very seriously at Little Green Frog. Fresh fruit and vegetables are delivered from Otley market and meat is collected from a local butchers.

Chef Mark Jenkins serves classics like cottage pie and some more adventurous offerings – chick pea and coconut curry is very popular and the Christmas lunches are fun – with parents coming along too.

Did YOU know?

First and foremost, it’s the children and their development that’s the focus. “We care about providing experiences that will prepare them for the adults they will become,� explains Ruth. “We’re there to support and guide them and present them with challenges and it is amazing to see the little pennies drop. It’s about seeing the bigger picture. Early years learning develops confidence and seeing them gain it gives amazing job satisfaction.�

Little Green Frog is a great place for children to play, learn, and be cared for.

It’s easy to imagine the toddlers of today returning here to relive some happy memories in ten years time.

For more information call 01943 466 230 or visit www.thelittlegreenfrog.co.uk

as Christm G IN SHOPP ! re Childca

Cookridge Hall health and fitness has a fantastic, Ofsted registered crèche, which is open to members and non-members from Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 1pm.

Caring, experienced staff keep children busy with a wide range of activities including painting, sand and water. There’s a soft play area as well as a wide variety of toys and books to keep little ones entertained.

The crèche takes babies from three months old and children up to the age of eight and can be booked by the hour.

It costs £15 for a full morning – perfect for some Christmas shopping or maybe just a bit of you time! Call 0113 2030 000 to make a booking.

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C hristmas

Keep it Simple with Five Fantastic FESTIVE TRADITIONS

By Claire Bottomley

Piles of shiny presents waiting to be opened, mountains of rich food and a filled glass wherever you turn – don’t you just love the excesses of Christmas?

I

F THE THOUGHT of another expensive and indulgent yuletide is starting to make you feel a bit queasy, you’re not the only one.

It’s easy to despair of children and their mercenary fixation with an ever growing wish list of gifts. But fast forward a few years, and my bet is that their Christmas childhood memories won’t be what was waiting for them under the tree, but the family traditions they took part in every year.

Many of these are free, about community spirit, creativity, thoughtfulness and appreciation of fun times spent together.

You’ll have your own amazing ideas for traditions unique to your families, but here are my top five…

Family Walk at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, credit NTPL, Photo: Chris Lacey

4

FAMILY WALK There’s something special about a family walk at Christmas.

Whether on the day itself, Boxing Day or beyond, everyone you meet will be especially friendly and full of good will, with lots of Christmas knitwear on display.

2 Crafts at The Tetley

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CRAFTS I have such lovely memories of busily making paper chain decorations in the comfort of our living room, safely tucked away from the drizzle and snow outside. There are so many ideas for Christmas decorations. See our Make & Do Christmas biscuits and tree decorations on page 17.

Salt dough is also great for making tree decorations – and you can make it yourself with flour and salt.

For added inspiration, many museums, galleries and attractions have craft making sessions going on, including Fountains Abbey, Abbey House Museum, Lotherton Hall, The Tetley and Leeds Art Gallery.

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3

LIGHTS SWITCH ON OR CAROL SERVICE Whether it’s the spectacular Christmas lights switch on in Leeds City Centre on November 12, or a carol service at your local green or high street, community events will leave you with that warm, Christmassy glow.

A VISIT TO SANTA Famously, Father Christmas has magical powers when it comes to the space time continuum, so he gets about a bit. You can go and meet the big man himself at lots of places, check out our guide, Where’s Santa? on pages 18 – 19.

He also tries to get to school fairs and even toddler groups, so there’ll be opportunities aplenty.

5

PANTOMIME Nothing sums up tradition like a pantomime. Oh no it doesn’t! If you haven’t collectively shouted “boo hiss” and “he’s behind you” as a family, this is the year to start.

There are two fabulous pantomimes on offer in Leeds this winter; Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto at City Varieties Music Hall and Aladdin at the Carriageworks Theatre.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto at City Varieties Music Hall Photo: Tony O’Connell

C hristmas

Christmas WORDSEARCH

Make with the KIDS…

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STAR STOCKING

CAROLS SNOWMAN

DECORATION TURKEY

REINDEER BELLS

Christmas Cookies /Tree Decorations These delicious shortbread stars will look great as festive biscuits or hung on the tree – but we suspect they won’t be there long!

This is such a simple recipe, with only three ingredients and it is quick and easy to make.

Time needed: About half an hour, including baking time Ingredients: n Plain flour, 200g n Cool butter, 100g n Caster sugar, 50g n Writing icing, white, green, red (great for drawing lines and shapes) n Decorations in silver, red, green, gold or white You will need: n Large bowl n Sieve n Flat baking trays n Star cookie cutters (or other festive shapes) n Clean pencil n Silver, gold, white, green or red ribbon Method: n With your child, measure the flour and then let your little one spoon the flour into the sieve, held above the bowl.

Sift the flour. n Add the sugar. n Add the butter, cut into cubes.

n With clean hands, show your child how to rub the butter in.

Keep rubbing then kneading and it should come together into a ball. n Without over-working the dough, roll it out on a flat surface, dusted with flour. n Using the cookie cutters, help your child stamp out star shapes and place them on the baking tray. If you want to turn some of them into tree decorations, use the blunt end of the clean pencil to make a hole at the top of one of the points for the ribbon. n Bake at 320F/160°C/Gas 6 for 12–15 minutes until golden.

When cool, decorate with writing icing and any other decorations you like, such as sugar balls. For the decorations, thread and tie the ribbon. Hang on the tree!

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C hristmas

SANTA’S ARRIVAL & SLEIGH PARADE AND SANTA’S GROTTO AT STOCKELD PARK Harrogate Road, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 4AN 01937 586101 • www.stockeldpark.co.uk Help Stockeld welcome Santa and his reindeer back and maybe win a sleigh ride on November 14 and 15. The reindeers will be in their pen from 12 noon but the parade takes place at 3pm. Visit Santa in his grotto from midday for £8.

Santa will then take up residence in his Grotto, a beautiful luxury log cabin all the way from Lapland, where he’ll welcome children on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, and from November 27 the grotto is open every day until December 24.

This year, Stockeld Park has also created a new system to help guests beat the queues.

Once you’ve purchased your Grotto ticket, you will be allocated a number. There are screens around the site and when your number is called, you can make your way down to the Grotto.

Here you will be greeted by elves, who will give you a magic gold coin to give to Santa, this lets him know if you have been naughty or nice.

On Saturday, November 28 and Sunday 29, and Saturday December 5 and Sunday 6, you can enjoy breakfast with Santa. Each child receives a Christmas present. 9 – 11am.

Pre-booked tickets only. £13 per child, £6.50 per adult with breakfast included.

IIA little elf has told us where SantaII IIcan be found in the run up to Christmas…II

500 YEARS OF CHRISTMAS AND A MAGICAL JOURNEY TO VISIT FATHER CHRISTMAS AT TEMPLE NEWSAM Temple Newsam Road, Leeds, LS15 0AE 0113 336 7560 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/ Pages/Temple-Newsam.aspx 500 years of Christmas is a packed programme to get into the festive spirit on Saturday, December 12 and Sunday 13, including Victorian merry making, carol singers, strolling story tellers, craft making, a festive 1940s farm and a secret winter wonderland journey to meet Father Christmas! Adult £7.20, Child £3.90, Family £16.50. Leeds cards and Breeze card discount available. £3 additional charge to visit Father Christmas. Tickets and time slot to visit Father Christmas can be booked in advance – highly recommended to avoid the queues.

10.30am – 4pm.

Then Father Christmas has promised to make a stop at Temple Newsam this year from December 15 – 19, 1pm – 4pm. Explore the winter wonderland to find him. £3 per child.

Usual house admission charges also apply.

FATHER CHRISTMAS’ GROTTO AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY Near Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey What’s that sound? It’s the jingle of reindeer bells – Father Christmas is touching down at Fountains Abbey this year and he comes bearing gifts. If you’ve been a good little boy or girl, pay him a visit in his cosy grotto and he may have a special something for you. Saturdays & Sundays 1 – 3pm from November 28 – December 20.

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EDWARDIAN CHRISTMAS AT LOTHERTON HALL Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, LS25 3EB 0113 378 2959 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/ Pages/Lotherton-Hall.aspx Visit Lotherton Hall in all its seasonal finery and celebrate an Edwardian Christmas. Visit Father Christmas in his grotto and receive a present!

With festive crafts, wreath making, children’s entertainment and live music. Merriment for all the family. No booking required. December 12 & 13 11am – 3pm. Father Christmas £4. Usual estate admission charges apply.

Stockeld Park

CHRISTMAS MARKET AT ST GEMMA’S HOSPICE 329 Harrogate Road, Leeds, LS17 6QD 0113 218 5500 • www.st-gemma.co.uk As well as Santa’s Grotto, there’ll be stalls, German sausages, mulled wine and real non-drop Christmas trees on sale. Friday, December 4, 3pm – 8pm and Saturday, December 5, 10am – 3pm.

VISIT SANTA IN HIS GROTTO AT ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/ Pages/Abbey-House-Museum.aspx Visit Father Christmas in his magical Abbey House grotto and collect a present. Don’t forget your camera. There will also be crafts, music and fun in the museum’s Victorian Streets.

No booking required. 2pm – 4pm Grotto £4 per child (includes a gift). Usual admission charges also apply.

Every Saturday 2pm – 4pm and every Sunday 10am – 12pm and 2pm – 4pm from December 5 to December 20.

For children who may find a trip to see Santa a little overwhelming, there’s relaxed Santa, on December 12, 10am – 11.30am. Santa’s elves will be around to help children with craft activities and Santa will be in the museum’s Victorian Streets so children can choose how and when to approach him. This session is free but booking is essential to ensure it does not become too crowded. Call 0113 378 4079 to book a place. Usual museum admission charges apply. No admission charge for the session.

C hristmas Baby Rave North

HARROGATE CHRISTMAS MARKET

SANTA’S GROTTO AT THE RAINBOW FACTORY

The Stray, The Stray, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG2 8AR www.harrogatechristmasmarket.org

Gate 3, Springfield Commercial Centre, Bagley Lane, Farsley, LS28 5LY 0113 8800 908 www.rainbowfactorykids.com

There’ll be a Santa’s Grotto and real reindeer at this four-day festive market, plus more than 190 stalls selling everything from Yorkshire cheeses and chutneys to handmade gifts and Christmas decorations. From November 19 – 22, 10am-5pm.

Santa Claus is coming to town. He’ll be in his storytelling wonderland grotto in the Rainbow Factory from December 3 to 23.

After paying the usual Rainbow Factory ticket price, it’s £3 extra per child to meet him and collect a gift.

FATHER CHRISTMAS AT BOLTON ABBEY CHRISTMAS STORIES WITH SANTA AT HARLOW CARR Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 1UE 0845 265 8070 www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlow-carr/ Articles/Christmas-stories-with-Santa Enjoy a secret tale with Santa. Children receive a gift at the end of the session. Places are strictly limited. Story sessions begin at the following times: 9.45am, 10.45am, 11.45am, 1.45pm & 2.45pm. Adults £1.50, children £3.50 – plus normal garden admission.

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from December 4, then daily from December 20 – 24.

THE GROTTO WITH BABY RAVE NORTH Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 78R www.babyravenorth.co.uk There’ll be mini baby raves, Frozen performance workshops and arts and crafts to mesmerising story telling sessions, hot chocolate and breakfasts with Elsa and Santa all surrounding Santa’s Grotto itself. Complete with photo booth and goodies to take home. From December 7 – December 24.

Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 6EX boltonabbey.com Father Christmas and his merry elves will be returning to Strid Wood. They will be staying in an old Romany caravan, which will be tucked away in the beautiful enchanted woodland.

With open log fires, Christmas carols, a wishing tree and your chance to make reindeer dust.

Each child will receive a personalised gift with their name on. Children must be pre-booked and to avoid disappointment they advise you book early. Every Saturday and Sunday from December 5 – 20, 9.30am – 4pm.

Don’t forget to BOOK EARLY where necessary, as these events are always popular!

M th Make thi this hisis Ch Chr Christmas hririsiststm tm mas ma as an un unf unforgettable nfo for org rgge getetttta tab abl blele on one ne at Le L Lee Leeds eed eds ds Mu Muse Museums use us seu eum ums ms an and nd Ga Galleries alllleler al er Take a spellbinding visit to Santa in his enchanted grotto, pick up some hand-crafted local treasures in our Christmas market, or capture the spirit of the festive season with cheerful crafts, fun and games. www.leeds.gov.uk/schoolholidays leedsmuseumsandgalleries @leedsmuseums #magicalleeds

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WHAT’S ON… IIThere’s a sparkling line-up of theatre,II IIevents and activities on offer thisII IINovember and December...II

It’s PANTOMIME Time!

There are two fabulous, classic pantomimes here in Leeds this time around.

911 star Lee Brennan will play Aladdin at the Carriageworks Theatre, alongside Leeds’ panto favourite Jez Edwards as Wishee Washee.

This jewel encrusted family pantomime is set to dazzle and delight, so fasten your seat belts for a magical carpet ride of mystery, sparkling romance and dazzling adventure.

Aladdin runs from December 4 to January 9. For more information, visit www.leeds.gov.uk/carriageworks/Pages/ default.aspx.

City Varieties Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto. Picture by Tony O’Connell

CAST A SPELL: stars of Aladdin at Carriageworks Theatre

At City Varieties Music Hall, it’s Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood, The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto. Expect all the traditional elements of a family panto with lots of audience interaction and heaps of corny gags, sound-tracked by classic pop and soul hits from the 60s, 70s and beyond. This year’s treats include Fleetwood Mac, Bruce Springsteen, The Clash, Meatloaf and Bob Marley.

And don’t forget the Legendary Rock Fight (now with added boulders!) which has thrilled Leeds audiences for more than a generation.

“The City Varieties pantomime has become a necessary-datein-the-diary throughout the festive period,” says Ian Sime, General Manager. “It’s fair to say it’s a bit of a Leeds tradition.”

Recommended for age three plus. Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood runs from November 27 to January 10. For more information, visit www.cityvarieties.co.uk.

BABY RAVE Grotto

otto Leeds

by Rave North, The Gr Brought to you by Ba imate events of unique, festive, int returns for another set of the Leeds on the ground floor for the whole family Corn Exchange. workshops Frozen performance From mini baby raves, ling sessions, hot mesmerising story tel and arts and crafts to there’s plenty ts with Elsa and Santa, chocolate and breakfas rs and children. tions of babies, toddle to capture the imagina te with photo s Grotto itself, comple Not to mention Santa’ place to take take home, it’s a great booth and goodies to . little ones this yuletide , visit For more information 24. to 7 r be From Decem byravenorth.co.uk o.uk or email info@ba www.babyravenorth.c

Ho Ho Ho HORSFORTH! Festive-minded folk have teamed up in Horsforth to bring a fabulous day of winter cheer on Saturday, December 5 from 9am until late. The walk of art, town council, farmer’s market, churches and local businesses have lined up a jam-packed programme of events.

There’ll be a Farmer’s Market Christmas Special, themed stories and craft activities and a Walk of Art Christmas Craft and Art market.

At 3.30pm at the Green, Leeds City Band will play, and there’ll be carols from local school children and Father Christmas turning on the Christmas lights. Then at 5pm St Margaret’s Church will be opening the doors to its Christmas market, with gifts, local charity stalls, handmade items, edible crafts and hot food stalls.

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, What s on?

THE TETLEY At a time of year saturated by festive schmaltz, The Tetley offers a unique, creative experience by extending themes within its winter exhibition The Feast Wagon into events, activities, food and drink and creative workshops – all with a seasonal twist called The Winter Wagon.

FOUNTAINS ABBEY Getting children out in the fresh air in winter time is a must, and what better place than Fountains Abbey, where there’s so much to see and do this winter. You could take a guided walk of the medieval deer park or join a winter bird walk. How about a Family Star Gazing Evening?

And for getting in the festive spirit, there’s The Elves’ Christmas workshop where you can write a letter to Santa and make a Christmas decoration. There’s also a Frosted Fountains Trail of sparkling snowflakes, and every weekend from Nov 28 to Dec 27 (excluding December 6 and 26), there’s Music and Lights – trees twinkling with light and live festive music.

Carols by Candlelight, the annual family carol service, sees nearly 1,000 candles light up the abbey Cellarium.

Mulled wine and hot chocolate available.

For more details on dates and times, see our What’s On listing, or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountainsabbey

Christmas at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, credit NTPL, Photo: Chris Lacey

THE

WINTER WAGON AT THE TETLEY

STOCKELD PARK Magical Stockeld Park is always a favourite at Christmas. Explore and enjoy the theatre and fantasy of the Enchanted Forest, choose your very own freshly grown non-needle drop Christmas tree from the circus big top, skate on an outdoor, real ice skating rink, browse the gift emporium. Relax and enjoy a hot drink or snack at the Woodland Cafe and visit Santa in his woodland grotto. Plus, try cross country skiing and lose yourself in our Yew tree maze.

For special events, see our What’s On listings or visit www.thechristmasadventure.com

EXPERIENCE SOMETHING DIFFERENT THIS CHRISTMAS FREE CREATIVE WORKSHOPS EVERY SATURDAY IN DECEMBER

The Tetley, Hunslet Road, Leeds, LS10 1JQ / www.thetetley.org

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, What s on?

SANTAS ON THE RUN AT STOCKELD PARK NOVEMBER 29 Harrogate Road, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 4AN 01937 586 101 • www.stockeldpark.co.uk Hundreds of Santas will be dashing through the Enchanted Forest to raise funds for Martin’s House Children’s Hospice. Pre-register for this popular event.

The Tetley

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG AT THE WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE FROM DECEMBER 2 TO JANUARY 30 Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7UP www.wyp.org.uk One of the world’s favourite musicals, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will have audiences of all ages flying high with its mixture of madness, intrigue and exuberance.

ALADDIN AT THE CARRIAGEWORKS THEATRE FROM DECEMBER 4 TO JANUARY 9 The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 3AD 0113 224 3801 www.leeds.gov.uk/carriageworks/Pages/default.aspx This jewel encrusted family pantomime is set to dazzle and delight, so fasten your seat belts for a magical carpet ride of mystery, sparkling romance and dazzling adventure.

FIREWORK SPECTACULAR AT STOCKELD PARK NOVEMBER 1 Harrogate Road, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 4AN 01937 586 101 • www.stockeldpark.co.uk What goes BOOM deep in the Yorkshire Forest? It’s Stockeld Park’s spectacular fireworks display.

ROUNDHAY PARK FIREWORKS & BONFIRE NOVEMBER 5 The Soldiers Field Bonfire lighting at 7.30pm, firework display from 8pm.

WOODHOUSE MOOR FIREWORKS & BONFIRE NOVEMBER 5 Otley Road Bonfire will be lit at 7pm and fireworks go off at 7.30pm.

SPRINGHEAD PARK FIREWORKS & BONFIRE NOVEMBER 5 Rothwell Bonfire will be lit at 7pm and fireworks go off at 7.30pm.

BRAMLEY PARK FIREWORKS & BONFIRE NOVEMBER 5 Bonfire will be lit at 7pm and fireworks go off at 7.30pm.

MIDDLETON PARK FIREWORKS & BONFIRE NOVEMBER 5 Bonfire will be lit at 7pm and fireworks go off at 7.30pm.

DISCO ON ICE AT STOCKELD PARK FRIDAYS FROM NOVEMBER 6 Harrogate Road, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 4AN 01937 586 101 • www.stockeldpark.co.uk A huge outdoor rink hosting Disco on Ice, where you can enjoy ice skating, music and lights every Friday night. 6.30pm – 8.30pm.

FREE DAY FRIDAY – OPEN DAY AT HARLOW CARR NOVEMBER 6 Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG3 1UE 0845 265 8070 • www.rhs.org.uk An opportunity to view the gardens for free and enjoy them as they bed down for the winter.

A TRIBUTE TO ALL THINGS ‘FROZEN’ AT STOCKELD PARK NOVEMBER 7 & 8 Harrogate Road, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 4AN 01937 586 101 • www.stockeldpark.co.uk A winter wonderland weekend. Ice rink with snow machine, frozen photo zone, craft area, real live huskies and more. Day Ice Passes can be booked online. 12 – 6pm. Ice Pass price £15.50 per child, £17.50 per adult.

DEER WATCH AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY & STUDLEY ROYAL NOVEMBER 7 Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 • www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey Begin your guided walk of the medieval deer park at the Visitor Centre. It’s free to go on the walk in the deer park, but normal admission charges apply to the abbey and water garden.

2pm – 4pm.

LEEDS CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON NOVEMBER 12 The countdown to Christmas starts with the annual Lights switch on in Victoria Gardens on the Headrow. The show will start around 6.45pm and there will be funfair rides along Cookridge Street.

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS WEST YORKSHIRE PLAYHOUSE NOVEMBER 20 – JANUARY 2 Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7UP www.wyp.org.uk Carol doesn’t feel very Christmassy. What’s all the fuss about?

That is until the night before Christmas when Elf 30046 falls down her chimney. Suitable for age three and over.

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FAMILY STAR GAZING EVENING AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY NOVEMBER 21 Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 • www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey Test out your telescope skills and unlock the secrets of the night sky with a helping hand from York Astronomical Society.

Booking Essential 01765 643 166. 7.30 – 9pm.

MAGNIFICENT THREE KINGS PARADE & CAMEL RIDES AT STOCKELD PARK NOVEMBER 21 & 22 Harrogate Road, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 4AN 01937 586 101 • www.stockeldpark.co.uk Camel parade through the enchanted forest and camel rides.

10am – 3pm £5 per ride.

WINTER BIRD WALK AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY NOVEMBER 21 Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 • www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey Join Robert on a two mile walk around the estate to see the birds that make Fountains their home in winter time. Meet at the Visitor Centre. Normal admission charges apply. 11am – 12.30pm.

TINY TETLEY AT THE TETLEY NOVEMBER 25 Hunslet Road, Leeds LS10 1JQ 0113 320 2323 • www.thetetley.org Messy fun for the under-fives exploring movement and wheels inspired by current exhibition, The Feast Wagon. Booking required.

ROBIN HOOD & THE BABES IN THE WOOD: THE ROCK 'N' ROLL PANTO AT LEEDS CITY VARIETIES FROM NOVEMBER 27 – JANUARY 10 Swan Street, Leeds, LS1 6LW 0845 644 1881 • www.cityvarieties.co.uk/Online/default.asp Expect all the traditional elements of a family pantomime from a talented cast of actor-musicians.

THE ELVES’ CHRISTMAS WORKSHOP AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY – SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 20 & MONDAY, DECEMBER 21 TO SUNDAY, JANUARY 3 (EXCLUDING DECEMBER 24 & 25) Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 • www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey The elves have been busy helping Father Christmas. Pop along to Swanley Grange to write your letter and send it from the twinkly post office, then make a Christmas decoration. Normal admission prices apply. 1pm – 4pm.

FROSTED FOUNTAINS TRAIL AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY SATURDAY NOVEMBER 28 – SUNDAY JANUARY 3 (CLOSED FRIDAYS EXCEPT NEW YEAR’S DAY) Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 • www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey A flurry of sparkling snowflakes have floated down and landed on Fountains Abbey. Keep your eyes peeled on this adventure around the estate. Normal admission prices apply. 10am – 4pm.

MAGIC HATTER AT STOCKELD PARK NOVEMBER 28 Harrogate Road, Wetherby, West Yorkshire, LS22 4AN 01937 586 101 • www.stockeldpark.co.uk See inspired magic close up! 10.30am – 4.30pm. Walkabout magic Shows 1.30 & 3.30pm.

MUSIC & LIGHTS AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS NOVEMBER 28 – DECEMBER 27 & MONDAY DECEMBER 28 (EXCLUDING DECEMBER 6 & 26) Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 • www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey Wrap up warm, grab a hot drink and wander through the estate to see the trees twinkling with light and the Abbey all aglow. Enjoy live festive music in the Cellarium. 3.30 – 5pm (last entry 4pm)

CHOIRS, CRAFTS AND FESTIVITIES AT LEEDS CITY MUSEUM DECEMBER 5 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Leeds-City-Museum.aspx Special Christmas themed event for all ages with magical choir performances and craft activities to capture the spirit and fun of the festive season. Free event, no booking required. 11am – 3pm.

HORSFORTH WALK OF ART CHRISTMAS TRAIL DECEMBER 5 Christmas markets and family fun, running across Horsforth Town Street, plus turning on the Christmas lights at the green with Santa, carol singers and Horsforth Brass Band.

FAMILY ART WORKSHOP REINTERPRET INSTALLATIONS AT THE TETLEY DECEMBER 5 Hunslet Road, Leeds, LS10 1JQ 0113 320 2323 • www.thetetley.org Reinterpret parts of the gallery’s current installation, The Feast Wagon, in creative work. 11am – 3pm.

MUSEUM TOY BOX FAMILY EVENT AT THE DISCOVERY CENTRE DECEMBER 5 Carlisle Road, Leeds, LS10 1LB 0113 378 2100 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ discoverycentre.aspx Free event, no booking required. 10am – 12pm.

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY DECEMBER 6 Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 • www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey Annual family carol service. Grab a mulled wine or a hot chocolate and have a sing along to traditional carols in the Abbey. 3.30pm.

500 YEARS OF CHRISTMAS AT TEMPLE NEWSAM DECEMBER 12 & 13 Templenewsam Road, Leeds, LS15 0AE 0113 336 7560 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Temple-Newsam.aspx A packed programme including a Tudor banquet display, Tudor carol Karaoke, Jane Austen’s music, Victorian merry making, carol singers, strolling story tellers, craft making, a festive 1940s farm and much more. No booking required. Adult £7.20, Child £3.90, Family £16.50. Leeds cards and Breeze card discount available.

See Where’s Santa for visit details.

Christmas at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, credit NTPL, Photo: Chris Lacey

, What s on?

ENCHANTED TREE TRAIL AT LEEDS CITY MUSEUM TUESDAYS – SUNDAYS DECEMBER 19 – JANUARY 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH 0113 224 3732 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Leeds-City-Museum.aspx The museum’s Christmas trees have been suited and booted.

Follow the trail and enter the prize draw to win some dressing up costumes. Free event, no booking required. During opening hours – 10am – 5pm Tuesdays – Fridays; 11am – 5pm Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays. Closed Mondays except for Bank Holidays FESTIVE CRAFTS AT LOTHERTON HALL FROM DECEMBER 19 – 31 Off Collier Lane, Aberford, Leeds, LS25 3EB 0113 378 2959 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Lotherton-Hall.aspx Visit Lotherton Hall during the holidays for daily crafts in the Servants’ Hall to keep you in from the cold! No booking required.

Usual estate admission charges apply. 11am – 3pm (Phone to check Christmas opening times).

Stockeld Park

FAMILY ART WORKSHOP: CHRISTMAS BEASTIE AT THE TETLEY DECEMBER 12 Hunslet Road, Leeds, LS10 1JQ 0113 320 2323 • www.thetetley.org Create your own Christmas beastie decoration and join in the fun!

11am – 3pm.

GROVE METHODIST CHURCH CHOIR AT ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM DECEMBER 12 Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Abbey-House-Museum.aspx The Grove Methodist Choir is back with its annual Christmas performance of seasonal favourites in the museum’s Victorian Streets. Free event, no booking required. 2pm – 3pm.

ON THE HOOF AT FOUNTAINS ABBEY FROM DECEMBER 12 – 20 Fountains, Ripon, HG4 3DY 01765 608 888 • www.nationaltrust.org.uk/fountains-abbey Trot along to St Mary’s Church to watch the wild deer munching through their winter feed with deer warden John. Meet outside St Mary’s Church in the deer park. 11.30am – 12.30pm.

CAROLS WITH THE HERITAGE SINGERS AT KIRKSTALL ABBEY DECEMBER 13 Abbey Road, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Abbey-House-Museum.aspx The Heritage Singers return for their extremely popular festive performance in the abbey. Wrap up warm. Free family event, no booking required. 2pm – 3pm.

CITY CENTRE SANTA DASH IN AID OF ST GEMMA’S HOSPICE DECEMBER 13 www.st-gemma.co.uk Santa suits provided, sponsored 1k – 5k dash.

500 YEARS OF CHRISTMAS TOUR AT TEMPLE NEWSAM FROM DECEMBER 15 – 24 Templenewsam Road, Leeds, LS15 0AE 0113 336 7560 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Temple-Newsam.aspx A guided tour exploring how the family would have celebrated Christmas over the lifetime of Temple Newsam House from Tudor banquet to Victorian feast. Usual house admission charges also apply. 11am.

BRITISH ART SHOW 8 FESTIVE AT LEEDS ART GALLERY DECEMBER 17 The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 3AA 0113 247 8256 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Leeds-Art-Gallery.aspx Art space activities with a festive twist; add your own object memory to make a surprising celebration of winter and the holiday period. Free event, no booking required. 10am – 5pm.

COLLABORATIVE CHRISTMAS TREES AT THE TETLEY DECEMBER 19 Hunslet Road, Leeds, LS10 1JQ 0113 320 2323 • www.thetetley.org Drawing inspiration from Simeon Barclay’s installation, use collage to create individual segments to make a collaborative paper tree.

11am – 3pm.

SANTA’S LITTLE HELPERS CRAFTS AT ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM DECEMBER 22 & 23 Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Abbey-House-Museum.aspx Christmas fun, games and activities in the museum as everyone gets excited for the big day! No booking required. 10am – 12pm & 2pm – 4pm.

SPLAT A SPROUT CRAFTS AT ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM DECEMBER 29 & 30 Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Abbey-House-Museum.aspx Get Christmas out of your system with these silly crafts and activities. Family event, no booking required. Usual museum admission charges apply. 10am – 12pm & 2pm – 4pm.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU CRAFTS AT ABBEY HOUSE MUSEUM DECEMBER 31 Abbey Walk, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3EH 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk/museumsandgalleries/Pages/ Abbey-House-Museum.aspx Go along for a day of fun crafts and activities based around hats, beards and bonnets. No booking required. Usual museum admission charges apply. 10am – 12pm & 2pm – 3pm.

STOCKELD D

P PARK A ARK

Where W her h e ma magic aggic is made & adv adventures ven e tures

begin

The Christmas Adventure 21st October to 4th January

Music & Lights at Fountains Abbey Weekends 28 Nov - 27 Dec (excluding Sun 6 & Sat 26 Dec)

3.30pm - 5pm, last entry 4pm

Unique Enchanted Illuminated Forest walk, outdoor activities and special events*

nationaltrust.org.uk/fountainsabbey

www.stockeldpark.co.uk www w..stockeldpark.co.uk

*

Located between Harrogate Harrogate & Leeds. LS22 4AN © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey. Registered Charity Number 205846.

FREE Parking Parking + FREE entry entr y to the Woodland Wo oodland Café and Unique Inspiring Christmas Shop

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Will your child reach their full potential?

The Froebelian School is a thriving and dynamic independent prep school, which places children at the very heart of all it strives to achieve.

• No. 25 in the Sunday Times Top Independent School Listing • Excellent sport, music, drama and technology • Full wrap around care from 7.30 am to 6 pm • Excellent pupil staff ratio of 1:10

THE FROEBELIAN SCHOOL Giving a Flying Start to the Citizens of Tomorrow

CLARENCE ROAD, HORSFORTH, LEEDS, LS18 4LB T: 0113 258 3047 F: 0113 258 0173 E: office@froebelian.co.uk

www.froebelian.co.uk