FROME AND WEST WILTS EDITION
ISSUE 47 • MAY 2018
FORMERLY
Don't let hayfever take over
Win
Camp Bestival tickets
Celebrating
dad!
WHAT NOT TO SAY TO STAY AT HOME DADS
DEAF AWARENESS
www.familymatters-uk.co.uk
WOW! ACHIEVEMENTS
With over 500 courses on offer, there’s Something for Everyone 8th July to 4th August 2018 01672 892388 | summerschool.co.uk
WELCOME Hello and welcome to the May Half Term issue of Family Matters! After the Easter holidays and the weeks leading up to it were filled with snow and Arctic conditions, I’m sure we’re not the only ones looking forward to a bit more sunshine and nicer weather! With many of you starting to plan out your Whit Week and Bank Holiday activities, make sure to flick through to our What’s On section to see what is happening in the area to keep the kids (and you!) amused over the next few weeks. With the warmer weather under way, many of us will be reaching for the anti-histamines and the tissues, so be sure to check out our top tips for helping the allergy suffers in your house hold – they don’t have to miss out on the Summer fun because of runny eyes and sniffly noses! This issue is jam packed with features, advice and of course, all the achievements and news from our local schools, so make sure to grab yourself a cup of tea and find a nice sunny spot to sit and enjoy!
p7 HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT SUMMER SCHOOL?
p5 TRAVELLING POST-BREXIT p11 DON'T LET HAYFEVER TAKE OVER
p12 DEAF AWARENESS Published by Ignyte Media Ltd - email: info@ignyte-uk.co.uk call: 01761 410141 While every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in the publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Ignyte do not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All right reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.
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WILTSHIRE ARMED FORCES AND VETERANS CELEBRATIONS
Sat 30th June - Sun 1st July 2018 Trowbridge Park, BA14 8AH - Open from 10am Bands - Flypasts - Choirs - WW1 Tank and Trench Military Vehicles - Living History Groups - Traders Bar - Static Spitfire Sunday - Parade and Drumhead Service
FREE ENTRY www.wafvc.co.uk
TRAVELLING POST-BREXIT
If you’re anything like us, you’re probably bored of hearing about Brexit and the various horror stories attached to it, but for anyone who is looking at booking next year’s summer holidays, there are a few things that need to be taken into consideration. While there has been some stink kicked up about the status of passports in recent news articles, firstly about their colour, then where they were printed and when the public would get them and if it would mean existing passports would suddenly be invalid, not much time has been dedicated to other important elements of travel. The need for VISAs for instance, what to do about your EHIC cards and what will happen in regards to flight disruptions if agreements over airspace aren’t reached by the time the summer rolls around. The UK government has confirmed that new blue passports will begin being issued in October 2019, to save the tax payer money, they will be introduced slowly with burgundy passports continuing to be issued just without reference to the European Union in the interim and anyone with existing passports need not do anything until their renewal date, when they will then be issued with the newer design. It is the travelling itself that may cause a bit more concern. Travel Weekly reported that airlines based in the UK are drawing up contingency plans for passengers whose bookings are for after March 2019, as although these might be booked in advance, there is no guarantee that they will be able to travel. The warning applies to all tickets sold to EU destinations and up to 17 other countries where UK airline’s flight rights are controlled by European agreements. Though it is unlikely
that existing arrangements would change too drastically, any future aviation deals between the UK and the EU could result in increasing costs or entirely new routes. Some travel agents have already altered their terms and conditions to take into account holidays leaving the UK for Europe after March 2019, so if you’ve booked next year’s holiday or are preparing to, make sure to check these carefully. At the moment, the future of travel will be unable to be guaranteed until aviation arrangements are confirmed. Particularly anyone booking a non-package holiday should check these carefully to ensure they wouldn’t be left in limbo as they wouldn’t be covered under the Abta scheme. If that wasn’t enough to be thinking about, the European Union are working on a VISA scheme, similar to that used in the United States, the scheme, currently known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, or ETIAS, is a system in place for citizens of non-EU countries who do not currently need VISAs as part of their continuing projects to tighten borders. Users will need to register their details and intentions online before they travel, but doing so still may not guarantee they will be admitted into the country they want to visit. More details on VISAs and the ETIAS will be made clear when more negotiations are made, but certainly anyone with holiday plans in place should check the small print and keep their eyes peeled for news on EHIC coverage and changes to passport control. If you have any worries about travelling next summer, speak to your travel agent or holiday provider.
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May Half Term Activities Tag Rugby Camp
Cricket Camp
FOOTBALL CAMP Art Camp ARCHERY & FENCING Tennis Camp Wheels Day INVASION DAY Fundays Pricing 9:00am-3:00pm £16.50 per day per child £15.50 each per day for 2 or more siblings on the same day £11.50 per day per child if under the age of 5yrs old.
Selwood Academy, Berkley Rd, Frome, BA11 2EF
Early drop off 8:00-9:00am/Late pick up 3:00-4:00pm £3.00 per child/ £5.00 for both early and late pick up £2.00 per sibling/ £4.00 for both early and late pick up
E: ian@igsportscoaching.co.uk T: 07855 533141
Book online through our website www.igsportscoaching.co.uk
SUMMER SCHOOLING A School Holiday Childcare Solution? As the summer holidays approach, you might be starting to worry about what you’re going to do with the kids over the weeks while your life continues as usual. Do you rope in relatives to keep them out of trouble? Use up your valuable holiday time? Have you considered looking into a local summer school? Many organisations and educational facilities hold courses during the six-week holiday and though the idea of staying at school out of term time might not be as appealing to your child as it is to you, there are many benefits to enrolling in these classes.
pa int ing an "I lov ed sp en din g th e su mm er ma kin g craft s."
Many summer schools, such as theatre or dancebased ones involve physical activity, which will cut down the amount of time your kids are sat indoors on computers or in front of a TV. Aside from the fact that it gets you out of arranging adult supervision for them, it will give them a chance to engage with something they’re interested in with other people their age and ensures that there will be some form of exercise going on. Of course, it also gives the opportunity to develop their talents and social skills. As well as keeping them active, summer schools are great at helping build confidence and independence. Some courses are catered especially for their academic ability, meaning they’ll have the opportunity to shine and give them the freedom that isn’t often afforded while at school.
"We sp en t th e w h
There are several summer schools taking place across the region, you might be surprised just what activities are on offer. Whether your children are academic, arty or sporty, there is something for everyone and the benefits are numerous. Aside from giving them a safe area to learn while having fun, research has found that children who attend summer schools are more likely to get into competitive universities, and the benefit is greater for children from lower income families. Don’t forget though that summer schools are actually fun!
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ol e su m m er ex p lo
d
ri n g ou td oo rs !"
Make sure you take a look at Marlborough College advert (inside front page) and Enigma Pottery advert (inside back page) for all their Summer School activities.
@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk | 7
What not to say to a Stay at Home Dad
Society is constantly evolving and with more awareness of changing of traditional family roles, it shouldn’t surprise anyone to see a dad doing the school run rather than a mum, but for some reason, there is still an element of shock when you hear about a stay at home dad instead of a mum giving up her career to watch the children before school. So, should you come across one of these dads in the playground or when dropping your child off on a play date, we’ve compiled a list of things you should never say them.
Why? How parents decide to raise their children is no on e else’s business, so don’t.J ust don’t.
How brave of you! Well... Depending on how well behaved their kids are they may be brave to decide to spend as much time with them as possible, but really, is doing what you’re supposed to do as a parent brave? Parenting is a basic duty to your children, there isn’t anything overly courageous about it. Perhaps you might think it brave for a man to take on a traditionally female role, in which case ssssh. Cinnamon Rolls not Gender roles, people.
You change napp
ies?
Well... yes, if you ar e in charge of a baby and that baby needs a nappy change. Do you expe ct them to just leave it until their significant other comes home? They wouldn’t be a very good stay at home dad in that case wo uld they? And really, would you be impressed by a da d proudly declaring that they had never changed a nappy?
8 |
ukfamilymatters |
So there you go, if you come across a dad doing his dad duties, don’t respond with concern or congratulations, they’re just a parent doing normal parent things.
@UkFamilyMatters | familymatters-uk.co.uk
G ATTH GEETT FFA R R O HEER O F F R’’SS T T ’ ’ N N DDAA DDOO YY
-17
th JUN
Father’s Day is celebrated every year in the UK on the third Sunday in June. Reports suggest that it dates back to 1910 in Washington USA, where one lady decided it was about time that the father’s role was celebrated, as well as the mother. As a recognised day, it wasn’t taken seriously for several years, before becoming celebrated
E
as it is today. Unlike Mother’s Day, which is celebrated on different days across the world, the UK, USA and Canada all celebrate Father’s Day on the same Sunday in June. Want to get your dad, step dad, grandad or fatherly figure something to show your appreciation? Here are a few ideas to get your started:
For adventurous dads
For techy dads
Skydiving Paintballing Driving Experiences
Digital camera Ipod/mp3 player Gadget accessories
For quieter dads
For fashionable dads
Visit to a National Trust estate Sightseeing tour Golf day
Watch T shirt Cufflinks
For sporty dads Stadium tour Sports match game tickets Sporting TV/magazine subscription
For dads with simple taste CD DVD Favourite sweets
If you want something a bit more personal, there are a whole range of personalised gifts on the market and websites that offer engraving and photo services, or you could get your craft on and create something yourself that he will appreciate all the more! ukfamilymatters |
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MY CHILD WANTS TO LEARN A MUSICAL INSTRUMENT I WHERE DO I START?
I
MUSIC
MUSIC
I
M U S IC
Choosing the right kind of music lessons can make all the difference to your child’s enjoyment and achievement.
Wiltshire Music Connect can help. Visit our website to download our top tips for choosing a tutor.
In order to make the right decision, you and your child need to ask yourselves a series of questions about the kind of music they like and the learning environment that will suit them best.
We also have a directory of music providers known as Associates, who have been vetted by us. You can search the directory on our website by instrument, location, qualifications taught and more.
There are lots of options out there and it can be difficult to know where to begin.
If you’re worried about the cost of lessons and instruments then we can also provide you with information about the financial subsidies available to some families in Wiltshire.
Find out more www.wiltshiremusicconnect.org.uk/f2
E R V R E UININ F Y A H G
m u s m r e u r? o y
IS
If you’ve ever experienced hayfever, you’ll know that the months of March through to September are a blur of sneezing, itchy eyes and runny noses. While the best way to tackle symptoms will always be with anti-histamines, there are a few other things we can do to make things easier for those family members who are prone to pollen allergies. People with additional conditions, such as asthma or skin irritations, may find that these start to play up with the warmer weather too. If at any point you’re concerned about a family member’s hayfever, do seek the advice of a GP, as they can prescribe stronger anti-histamines or steroids to help combat the more extreme allergies. For those of us who pop a pill or spray a nasal spray and hope for the best, here are a few tips that can help you enjoy being outside in the sun. The first bit of advice would be to avoid going outside. But we all know that isn’t that exciting. So, here are some things you can do without shutting yourself away until Autumn. Firstly, keep windows and doors shut as much as possible, and be sure that if you have pets which go between indoors and out, anyone with allergies spend minimal time with them, as pollen can be collected on their coats. Make sure you’re vacuuming regularly to pick up any stray pollen, dusting with a damp cloth will also help. If you’re leaving the house, you can put Vaseline around your nostrils to trap pollen and prevent it from causing too much of a reaction, when you get home, you can shower and change your clothes to wash as much pollen from you as possible. Wearing wraparound sunglasses will also help stop pollen getting to your eyes. Another tip would be to dry clothes inside rather than out, to limit the amount of pollen they can pick up. It is also recommended you get a pollen filter fitted in your car, most newer cars come with this already in place, but older vehicles might not – check your manufacturer’s book and if you feel you need one, speak to a local mechanic.
Have you got any other tips for dealing with hayfever? Drop us a message on Facebook or Twitter.
According to NHS Direct, these are the basic symptoms of hayfever: Sneezing and coughing Runny or blocked nose Itchy, red or watery eyes Itchy throat, mouth, nose and ears
Loss of smell Headache Earache Tiredness
Try learning sign language this May for
Deaf Awareness
With Oscar-winning short film, The Silent Child, starring six-year-old Maisie Sly, from Swindon, shining the spotlight on deafness and the ways in which sign language can be life changing in helping young people communicate, we thought now would be as good a time as any to teach a few signs. You might be familiar with a few different types of sign language. Makaton is a language developed to combine speech and signs and is used effectively across the country by a multitude of individuals who struggle with spoken communication, it can be helpful for not only the hard of hearing, but also children with autism, Down’s Syndrome and other conditions which make communication difficult. BSL, or British Sign Language, makes use of space and movement involving the hands, body, face and head to convey more complex sentences without the use of verbal support. Both BSL and Makaton feature similar signs and gestures – here are a few of our favourite signs to get you started!
Do you know any sign language? Show us! Send us your videos and photos via our website! And make sure to check the website to see our video of us learning sign language.
CUT-OUT & KEEP
Enter now at www.familymatters-uk.co.uk
Win Prizes
Win a family ticket to Yeovilton Air Day Win tickets to see the first ever Teletubbies Stage show The iconic, world-famous Teletubbies, are to star in their first-ever live theatre show, “Big Hugs,” created especially for the youngest audience. Join Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po in a captivating stage show full of love, laughter, music and “Big Hugs,” as they explore the magical world of Teletubbyland. Look out for the Tubby Phone, Noo-Noo and Sun Baby in a fun, bright and safe world, which captures young children’s imaginations and encourages them to explore the world around them. Tickets are a family ticket (4 tickets) for Wednesday 12th September, at the 10am showing.
Win a family ticket to The Helicopter Museum The Helicopter Museum has over 80 full size aircraft on display ranging from an impressive Russian gunship to a massive Super Frelon 36 seat helicopter. The Museum hosts the only helicopter collection in the country and the largest of its kind in the World! Highlights on the Museum’s event calendar include it’s monthly ‘Open Cockpit Days’ where visitors can take the pilots seat in one of the museums many aircraft and be shown the controls by an experienced guide. During the year the Museum hosts a WWII Extravaganza, Numerous Transport Rallies, Drone racing and a Flight Simulator convention. For younger visitors Family Fun Days take place throughout the year including bubble shows, owl displays, magic shows, the haunted helicopter at Halloween and a chance to see Santa arrive in his helicopter at Christmas.
The Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) Yeovilton International Air Day will take place on Saturday 7 July. The show will include over five hours of dazzling flying displays featuring fast jets, historic warbirds, helicopters, formation aerobatic display teams and role demonstrations enhanced by spectacular pyrotechnics and flares. There will also be a vast range of showground attractions from the latest defence technology exhibitions, engineering fairs and service displays to trade stalls, arena displays and much more! For the thrill seekers, there will be simulators, fairground rides and helicopter pleasure flights to enjoy. Whether you are a first timer or a dedicated aviation enthusiast, the Air Day has something for everyone.
WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO SPLASHDOWN With summer just around the corner, there’s never a better time to visit a waterpark; with flumes galore, twisting tyre rides and a whole lot fun for the family. We have family tickets for 4 people to be won at the south west’s favourite waterparks. Best of all you can choose whether you wish to go to Splashdown in Poole, Dorset or Splashdown Quaywest, right on the beach in beautiful South Devon. Tickets may be used anytime up to 2nd September 2018, admission for up to four people. Worth up to £60.00 per family.
TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING THESE FANTASTIC PRIZES, simply visit www.familymatters-uk.co.uk, click on the Competitions button and complete the form. It couldn’t be easier! Closing date for entries: 26th June 2018
amazing prize for the family
W I N !
... A FAMILY TICKET TO
CAMP BESTIVAL!
Do something different with your family this summer and climb aboard our ship of fun as Camp Bestival Sets Sail. Enjoy ocean-sized entertainment at Lulworth Castle, Dorset with music from Simple Minds, Rick Astley, Clean Bandit, Orbital, Basement Jaxx (DJ), Sara Cox presents Just Can’t Get Enough 80s!, Shed Seven, Tokio Myers, Declan McKenna, dodie, The Skatalites, Jaguar Skills and many more. Don’t miss out on family fun from Mr Tumble, Dick and Dom, Mister Maker & the Shapes, Dinosaur World Live, Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, ZSL London Zoo: Gruesome Nature Live! and many more.
Enjoy delicious food and drink from River Cottage, the Feast Collective, DJ BBQ and his BBQ Zoo, Zoe’s Ghana Kitchen, Rob & Josie’s Gin Festival and lots more and treat yourself to creature comforts with boutique camping from yurts and tipis to gypsy caravans and backstage hospitality, all at a castle campsite by the sea. For more information on Camp Bestival, visit campbestival.net
To be in with a chance to win, just go to
WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK/COMPETITIONS and fill in the form. Easy! T&Cs The prize includes weekend tickets to Camp Bestival for two adults and up to four children (under 18). Prize is non-transferrable. Winners names will be added to a guest list for wristband collection onsite. ID will be required for collection. For full Camp Bestival T&Cs http://www.campbestival.net/tickets/terms-and-conditions
what’s on 24th May Frome - Playing Out A chance for children and parents/carers to play out and have some fun. Free. Victoria Park Frome (in front of cafeĚ ) Somerset BA11 www.sasp.co.uk, www.zingsomerset.co.uk 24th May T Rex: The Killer Question Get hands on with fossil replicas and square up to a life-size animatronic T Rex. Decide for yourself if the king of the dinosaurs deserves the title of predator, or sneaky scavenger. Longleat Estate, Wilts. 26th - 27th May Cheddar Gorge Explorer Trail An afternoon of family fun. Explore Cheddar Gorge and have a go at the Explorer Quiz Trail. There will also be some craft activities to try. Free. 12pm. National Trust Shop, Cheddar Gorge, BS27 3QE www.mendiphillsaonb.org.uk 26th - 28th May Tractor Ted Big Machine Weekend at Bowood Get up close to a range of real life farm machinery; exactly what Tractor Ted is all about! Learn more about farming with arena displays and activities throughout the day. www.bowood.org/events
26th May - 3rd June Wildlife Week at Cheddar For one week only you'll get to meet some of our favourites during some very special animal encounters! Daily 10am - 4pm. www.cheddargorge.co.uk 28th May - 1st June Whispering Woods Outdoor Acrobatic Theatre Family outdoor theatre with a twist, Whispering Woods bring ancient tales to life using circus acrobatics amongst the trees. Lacock Abbey, 10.30am and 4.30pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock-abbey-fox-talbot-museumand-village. 29th May - 1st June Wildlife Days There will be wildlife crafts and a variety of hands-on activities with the Somerset Wildlife Trust, Wildlfowl & Wetlands Trust, Somerset Moth Group, Bumblebee Conservation Trust and others. Barrington Court, near Ilminster, Somerset 30th May - 2nd June The Royal Bath and West Show Over four days there are action packed events for all the family, and a haven for all enthusiasts of rural life. www.bathandwest.com/royalbath-and-west-show 31st May Family Fun - Cottage Garden Crafts and activities for all the family. 11am - 1pm and 2 -3.30pm. Normal admission applies Somerset Rural Life Museum. www.swheritage.org.uk
For further information about each event
2nd June Paw Patrol at West Somerset Railway The heroic pups will be making personal appearances at intervals between 10am and 4pm. Entertainment on the day will include a 20 mile steam train, face painting, crafts and much more. www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk 8th - 9th June One Small Step at The Egg Theatre This fab show returns for a fast, furious and full throttled trip to the moon. An inventive, funny and surprisingly moving, actionpacked show that crams 50 years of history into 60 minutes! www.theatreroyal.org.uk/your-visit/the-egg 9-10th June The Brick Express at Avon Valley Railway Jump onboard and enjoy our building workshops with Britain’s favourite construction toy whilst you travel the line. www.avonvalleyrailway.org/ events/the-brick-express 10th June LEAF Open Farm Sunday Fantastic, educational & innovative family oriented event featuring local countryside producers & crafters. Please follow car parking signs & not SAT NAV. Please leave dogs at home & wear suitable footwear. www.openfarmsunday.org 16th June Picnic in the Park An evening of musicals presented by Woodside Music. 7.30pm. Bush Farm Bison Centre, West Knoyle, Wilts. 17th June Bowoods Treasure Island Ahoy there! and be a pirate for the day. All o' you are welcome, shiver me timbers, we have something for everyone! Bowood House and Gardens. www.bowood.org/events 23rd June Sherlock Gnomes (U) The beloved garden gnomes from GNOMEO AND JULIET are back for a whole new adventure. This action-packed sequel features the voices of returning cast plus Johnny Depp as Sherlock Gnomes, Chiwetel Ejiofor as Watson and Mary J. Blige as Irene. Midsomer Norton Town Hall, 2.30pm.
23rd June Elmfete All welcome. Traditional stalls, games, craft area, hot food and refreshments, performances from the school choir, country dancing and a gymnastics display. 12 noon to 3pm Elmhurst School, Elmhurst Lane, Street. 22nd-24th June, The English Country Garden Festival Celebrate the Great British Garden, the stunning 14-acre grounds of the Palace features guided tours, live music, expert speakers, ‘have a go’ skills and crafts and over 40 stalls, 10am5pm. The Bishops Palace, Wells. 30th June Country Fayre and Family Fun Day Stalls, Food, BBQ, Games, Animals and much much more. 11am - 4pm Fairfield Farm College, Dilton Marsh, Westbury, Wiltshire. 30th June - 1st July Teddy Bear Picnic at Avon Valley Railway Enjoy a family teddy bear trail around the station, take part in craft activities and much more. FREE train travel for children who bring their Teddy Bear! www.avonvalleyrailway.org/events/teddy-bears-picnic 7th July - Yeovilton Air Day The Royal Navy’s premier public event at the spiritual home of the Fleet Air Arm. Alongside the magnificent five hour flying display there will also be a huge array of ground attractions and arena displays. www.royalnavy. mod.uk/yeovilton-airday 15th July Centurion Family Fun Day Music, Bar, BBQ, Crazy Golf, Inflatables and more. Free entry. 11am - 4pm. Wristband for all activities £5. Best Western Centurion Hotel, Midsomer Norton.
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COWTASTIC FARM PARK FOR FUN ON THE FARM!
Plus award-winning Farm Shop, Café & Shopping Village. For opening hours, please visit our website.
OPEN FARM SUNDAY Sunday 10th June
Learn about all things farming, food & countryside! Includes free entry to the Farm Park on the day.
www.farringtons.co.uk
, Park Farm & l i a al Tr rn Anim a b y Pla r o o Ind ily n Da Ope
Making time for me For busy parents who are juggling work and child care, it can be difficult to set aside time for themselves but when was the last time you really put yourself first and listened to what you wanted? We’re always being told about how important self-care is and though it might seem impossible to carve out a bit of time in your schedule for yourself, taking time out can make all the difference to your family.
Parenting is tough.
It can be fun, it is definitely rewarding, but it is tough. Making sure the children are fed, that they’re clothed and washed, that they’ve had enough sleep, that they’ve done their homework, all that on top of maintaining your living space and getting yourself ready and out the door for work keeps you busy. Far too busy for a night out with friends or an evening to yourself in the bath with a glass of wine or two on the regular. Feeling busy without the chance to have a break can leave you feeling overwhelmed and isolated, so just like how your children need to take a break when they’re tired, so do you. Rather than thinking of alone time, either with your partner or solo, as a luxury, start trying to make it a priority. Not giving yourself time to de-stress and relax can have serious affects, not just on your mental health, but also your physical health, which in turn, can impact your family relationships. Surely, the first step to looking after your family, is to make sure you’re fit for purpose by looking after yourself? It is important that you don’t look at creating ‘me time’ as another task to add to the never ending to do list, but more collecting a series of brief pauses in the day that involve little planning and can leave you feeling refreshed. Whether it's taking half an hour to do some yoga while the baby naps, or walking for the school run giving yourself some time to breathe fresh air on your walk back home without the children. The littlest things can make the biggest differences and leave you happier, healthier and better able to enjoy your time with the family no matter how chaotic it is. The next time you find yourself reaching breaking point as the children scream around you and every piece of crockery you own teeters dangerously in the sink, think about what you can do to yourself happy, healthy and relaxed. If you have a partner sharing the child care duties, allow them to have some one-on-one time with the children and take yourself off to learn a new skill, wonder around the shops or just have a nap. If you’re a single parent, find a local club or group that the children can participate in while you spend some time clearing your head. Feeling like you’ve lost your old identity and taken on this new persona of being a parent is one thing that many people start to miss as their interests take a back seat to their children’s wants and needs. You can maintain your hobbies without neglecting the children or stressing yourself out and learning a new skill or keeping up with your old life can be a real confidence booster. There are plenty of reasons for taking time out and looking after number one, but it’s important not to stress out about it but to rather set aside time and stick to it. It’s for the good of the family and most importantly, for you and your relationships.
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Get closer historyto at Add sometocolour Avebury your weekend this With spring in full bloom, you will find something for all the family at Avebury. You can explore the autumn at Gibside ancient stone circle and museum, enjoy a guided landscape walk, make a bee hotel, join in with yoga in Avebury Manor garden or take part in Go through fallen leaves and discover a forest thecrunching spring floral workshops. There's always teeming with wildlife and autumn colours, with walking something going on at Avebury, find out more routes for all ages and abilities. on the website.
Call 01672 539250 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside nationaltrust.org.uk/avebury When you donate, or joinTrust, theyour National When you visit,visit, donate, volunteervolunteer or join the National support to look after special <in the region> <like Trust, helps yourussupport helps usplaces to look after special property X, property Y and Proeprty Z> in for ever, for everyone. places such as Avebury for ever, for everyone.
©National National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an © Trust 2016. The National Trust is an independent independent registered charity, number 205846. registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Photography © National Trust Images\Abby George. Images.
#nationaltrust #nationaltrust
Acrobatic theatre with a twist Lacock Abbey Add at some colour to
Mon 28 May - Fri 1 June your weekend this Whispering Woods, a magical troupe of aerialists and storytellers autumn at Gibside will be weaving a bewitching journey through the woodland Go crunching through fallen leaves and discover a forest garden, performances over teeming withwith wildlifeten and autumn colours, with walking routes for all ages and abilities. five days. Booking essential. nationaltrust.org.uk/gibside Call 01249 730459 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your
helps usTrust to look 2017. after special ©support National Theplaces <in the region> <like property X, Trust propertyis Y and Z> in for ever, for everyone. National anProeprty independent registered charity, 205846. © National Trust 2016. The Nationalnumber Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust #nationaltrust Photography © National Trust Images. #nationaltrust Images\Whispering Woods.
LATEST SCHOOL NEWS
EVENTS
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YOUR SUCCESSES
News and Reviews ACCLAIMED AUTHOR DAVID ALMOND
YEAR 8 NETBALL TEAM AT OAKFIELD ACADEMY
On Wednesday 2nd May, Year 7 pupils and staff at Oakfield Academy were delighted to welcome acclaimed author, David Almond, author of children's fantasy novel 'Skellig', which was later made into a movie. David captured the audience with stories of his life and the books that he has written, this was followed by a lively Q&A session.
The Year 8 netball team at Oakfield Academy did incredibly well this week in the U13’s Netball Festival at Kingdown School, Warminster. Although the shortest team by far, and getting drenched twice, in some very energetic play, Oakfield girls played strictly by the rules. They drew 6-6 with the winners of the tournament and won 2 games and drew the other.
OAKFIELD ACADEMY'S FUNDRAISING
Despite being the rank outsiders, they came 3rd overall out of 7. That seemed a complete surprise to the England Netball coach who was running it. They beat Kingdown (the hosts) 3-1 in the last game, much to their disappointment!
Oakfield Academy's fundraisers, staff and pupils would like to pass on a huge thank you to everybody who supported the very successful recent Bingo Night, which raised over £1,000! Special thanks also to the companies who generously donated prizes to the evening, these included: Center Parcs, Memorial Theatre Frome, Frome Leisure Centre, Theatre Royal Bath, Jane Austen Centre, Whitehall Garden Centre, Whitstone Chip Shop, Haynes Motor Museum, Tropiquaria Watchet. Pictured: Year 8 pupil Tilly Kempshall who won the Easter Hamper with a full house.
Miss Anna Pullen, Head of PE.
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SELWOOD ACADEMY PTA HELPS PUPILS VISIT LONGLEAT Last summer some of our pupils were lucky enough to be part of the Rotary Kidsout Longleat campaign, which allowed 15 of our pupils to spend a fun filled day in Longleat. Wanting to help other children experience this magical day Selwood Academy pupils presented Norman Sellar and Chris Page of The Rotary Club of Frome with a £100 donation from the PTA . Katie commented “It was such a fun day it would be nice for other children to get the opportunity to go.”
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01/05/2018 15:19
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EXTRA FUNDING FOR SERVICE CHILDREN IN WILTSHIRE
COMMUNITY FRIDGE IN FROME
Wiltshire Council welcomes the government’s allocation of funding our schools need for children arriving here next year as part of the Army Basing Programme. Today’s announcement will give assurance that our shared commitment to the programme will be honoured. The announcement of the additional funding was made by the Minister for School Standards Nick Gibb. Baroness Scott of Bybrook, OBE, Leader of Wiltshire Council has been in regular contact with the government to put forward the case for additional funding to address a likely shortfall. Currently, school funding is based on per-pupil numbers from nearly a year before the school year starts. Most of the numbers of Army Basing children will not be counted in time by that system, so schools had concerns over staffing and resources for them. Baroness Scott said: “We are delighted the representations we made to the government on this unusual situation have been recognised and this necessary funding is now available. “We’ll be reviewing the detail alongside our schools, however, this announcement will take the worry away from schools and will help with their planning. “Meanwhile, the work on the school build programme, funded separately by the Ministry of Defence, is on target and the infrastructure is taking shape to ensure Wiltshire is ready to welcome service personnel on their return in 2019.” Wiltshire will be home to an additional 4,000 service personnel and approximately 3,200 dependants as part of the Army Basing Programme. The UK’s largest military training area will be at Salisbury Plain by 2019. Wiltshire Council has been working closely with the Ministry of Defence (MOD), its estate management organisation – the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) – and partner agencies to ensure the right infrastructure, facilities and services will be in place for the arrival of Army personnel and their families. 917 new service family homes in Ludgershall, Bulford and Larkhill are being built as part of the programme in addition to some 100 homes MOD has purchased from the market. There will also be an additional 1,125 school places and 90 early years places. 5 RIFLES was the first unit to move to Wiltshire in 2016. Provision of additional school places for them was created with extensions at Bulford Kiwi Primary School and St Leonard’s Primary School. The majority of service personnel will move in the summer of 2019.
Oakfield Academy welcomed Helen Johnstone, Co-ordinator for Frome Community Fridge to their assemblies this week. Helen explained to the pupils the purpose of the Community Fridge which is in the Town Centre. The project aims to reduce food waste in the town, food is collected by volunteers from shops and restaurants and is available for everyone to use. The organisation’s only request is that people only take what they intend to use, items shouldn’t be taken to mess about with. Other items in the fridge such as cleaning equipment and steps, are there to be used by the volunteers to look after the fridge, and shouldn’t be taken. Oakfield Academy would like to thank Helen for a very informative talk, which all of the students found very interesting.
FUNDRAISING FOR SPORT RELIEF Raising a massive total for £466.98, students and staff threw themselves into supporting this year's Sports Relief! Pupils donated £1 each to join a sports MUFTI day, there was also a cake sale, and the day culminated in the whole school joining a one mile run, including Head Teacher, Emma Wilkes.
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BIKEABILITY TRAINING
SCHOOL DEBATE FORUM
Two more groups of pupils from Oakfield Academy have received Bikeability training from instructors at Somerset County Council's Road Safety Team. The training, which took place in school, on Critchill estate culminated with the children confidently cycling around the Sainsbury's roundabout. The second of the 2 courses coincided with the mini heat wave that bathed Frome in sunshine. All of the pupils thoroughly enjoyed the course and Oakfield would like to say a big thank you to the parents who volunteered to make the courses possible. Janet Crabb, one of the instructors, said: "It was lovely working with you all, thank you as ever for the warm welcome, the children were very well behaved, a credit to your school."
Oakfield's Year 7 students; Sam Cotterell, Emma Piper, and Nicolass Galbreath represented their school at a debating forum with Selwood Academy held at Frome College. The voting audience were members of Years 9, 10 and 11. As the youngest participants they showed confidence and communication skills beyond their years. Oakfield students were highly praised by the teachers that were present.
DEPUTY HEAD PROMOTIONS THANK YOU CO-OP!
Oakfield Academy would like to thank their local Southern Co-op Store in Nunney Road who have generously donated £1,000 to Oakfield Academy, money raised from carrier bag sales. The funding will go towards the refurbishment of the school's Quad areas. Year 6 pupils Maya, Jack, Molly, Dominic and Emily popped to the store to say thank you to Store Manager, Joshua King.
Two of Oakfield Academy's existing staff have been promoted to Deputy Heads, working closely with Head teacher, Emma Wilkes. The school is delighted to announce that the post of Deputy Head teacher (Professional, Development, Behaviour and Welfare) was offered to Emma Thomas, and the post of Deputy Head teacher (Quality of Teaching, Learning and Assessment) was offered to David McGrath. Both teachers were very pleased to accept their new roles.
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MENDIP YEAR 8 NETBALL TOURNAMENT Oakfield Academy's Year 8 attended a netball tournament at Fairlands School in Cheddar together with a team from Selwood Academy. They were up against rain and strong winds however Oakfield's team pulled together and put in a strong performance. The girls won 3 matches, drew 1 and lost 1, scoring 25 goals in total. The only team they lost against were the overall winners Wells Blue. The girls showed great determination and spirit.
WELL DONE LONDON MARATHON RUNNERS!
YEAR 6 FOOTBALL SUCCESS!
Everybody at Oakfield Academy would like to say how incredibly proud they are of the two staff that took part in a blisteringly hot London Marathon on Sunday 22nd April. Pupils Support Advisor, Zoe McAlpine and Assistant Head Teacher, David McGrath both completed the 26.2 mile course. Miss McAlpine’s time was 4 hours 55 minutes and Mr McGrath finished in a time of 5 hours and 9 minutes. Both said the experience was fantastic, very emotional and one that they will never forget and are already considering entering the 2019 Marathon!
The Year 6 football teams have got off to an excellent start to the season. In the Autumn term, Selwood entered two teams into the English Football League Kids Cup, a county wide competition which was played in Yeovil. Both teams did tremendously well, with the A team winning the whole competition to become champions! The A team will now represent Yeovil Town FC at the Regional Finals at Stanley Park. If they win this round they will get to play at Wembley! Good luck boys! Pictured are the Year 6 A team at Huish Park, the home of Yeovil Town football club on Saturday 24 February. For winning the tournament, the boys were treated to free tickets to watch Yeovil play Carlisle FC and a lap of honour on the pitch at half time. They also got to meet the ‘Jolly Green Giant’, Yeovil FC’s mascot.
infoyogasophie.co.uk 07903 342 652 www.yogasophie.co.uk Sophie Bolton Qualified Yoga Teacher offers 1:1 and group yoga therapy sessions for children with additional needs at home studio in Frome. See website for more details. Dancewithyourkids Last Sunday of each month at @ Buckland Dinham Hall, Buckland Dinham. Frome BA11 2QD. A fun and freespirited session held by Sophie - DJ, Dancing Freedom Facilitator and Children’s Yoga teacher. Welcoming ALL children (suggested age 0-8 yrs - disabled access to venue) and their parents to let go and be silly together. Families leave feeling more connected, relaxed and energised. ukfamilymatters |
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WOW
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WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT Name: Chloe Wall Age: 5 Achievement: Achieved the British Gymnastics proficiency award for level 8.
Name: Megan Cottle Age: 7 Achievement: Temporary 9th Kyu - orange belt Karate.
Name: Nicky Kershaw-Moore Age: 8 Achievement: Received his Rainbow Reader award for prolific reading.
Name: Polly Green Age: 9 Achievement: Polly passed her Grade 1 Ballet exam with Distinction! Well done!
Name: Alistair Combe Age: 7 Achievement: Cycling 15 miles raising ÂŁ280 for Sport Relief.
Name: Kayleigh Age: 6 Achievement: Cast for MusiKids Schools Out.
Name: Freya Hodges Age: 5 Achievement: Asa 15m swimming award & level 7 gymnastic proficiency award.
Name: Ruby Sage Age: 9 Achievement: She obtained a Blue Peter badge after writing a story about wolves.
Name: Suzanna Roberts Achievement: Awarded a Merit for her marvellous limericks.
Jasmine Robinson-Knott age 5, Chloe Wall age 5 and Ava Weeks age 5 took part in their first professional dance show with Susan Hill Dance School 35th Anniversary A Tribute to Pearl. Well done girls, amazing performances.
Eden, Rose and Ivy. We are very proud of them as they performed ballet in front of hundreds of people including the Major of Wells in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at the Wookey Hole Theatre.
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