FREE • NORTH EAST SOMERSET EDITION • ISSUE 56 • APRIL 2017
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WELCOME Director Tina Veater 07834 542955 | tina@ignyte-uk.co.uk Editorial Team Tina Veater info@ignyte-uk.co.uk Advertising Team Zoe Jenkins Theresa Saadeh Jane Groves 01761 410141 | info@ignyte-uk.co.uk Graphic Designer Pamela Evans Published by Ignyte Media Ltd Printed by Flying Colours Ltd, Weare, Somerset Business Address: Ignyte Media Ltd, Unit G5, Second Avenue, Westfield Industrial Estate, Radstock, BA3 4BH 01761 410141 info@ignyte-uk.co.uk 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. Distribution: We deliver to 7000 families through primary schools and other outlets in North East Somerset. The next edition is in May & is filling fast.
Spring is on the way and this is the time when we start to look forward to lighter nights, evenings in the garden, milder weather and some gorgeous flowers to brighten our day. Easter is not far way and it is always a great time of year to spend time as a family visiting some of our many attractions and enjoying days out. In the center pages of this edition you will find lots of ideas for places to go and things to do over Easter. Don’t miss the What’s On pages too where you will also find a host of events that are taking place throughout April. Easter is the time of year when we eat significantly more chocolate then at any other time of year. Make sure that you limit the amount of chocolate your children eat each day. It is also important that children understand the meaning of Easter, let them read the piece on pages 6 and 7 so they have a better understanding of what Easter is really all about. It is ‘Walk to School Week’ in May and you can read all about it in the magazine. This is always the perfect opportunity to leave the car at home and enjoy the early morning sunshine while strolling to school with the children. It is also recognized that children are more ready to learn when they have had some morning exercise, so if the walk is to not too onerous, maybe it is something you can do everyday? I certainly hope that the spring will bring some sunshine for us all to enjoy. Have a wonderful Easter break and enjoy as much time outside in the fresh air as you can.
Tina
Hey Magazine
@hey_tweeter
www.familymatters-uk.co.uk
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HATS ON FOR BRAIN TUMOUR RESEARCH! W
ear A Hat Day returns on Friday 31st March 2017 for the eighth year and it will be bigger, bolder and HATTIER than ever before with new celebrity ambassadors backing the campaign, including Debbie McGee, John Newman and Ed Balls, and new ways to get involved. Debbie McGee, who lost Paul Daniels to a brain tumour in March last year, has teamed up with the charity Brain Tumour Research to produce a special ‘Rabbit in a Hat’ badge as a tribute to the great magician. Ed Balls, Sheila Hancock CBE, Linda Robson, Sarah Beeny and Dr Dawn Harper will be featuring in the Wear A Hat Day advertising campaign. Singer, songwriter and record producer John Newman, currently awaiting treatment for his second brain tumour, will also be raising awareness of the disease in the run-up to Wear A Hat Day. Focused on raising funds and awareness, the charity has partnered with Hobbycraft, the UK’s largest craft retailer, for their 2017 Wear A Hat Day campaign. Stores up and down the country will be running free in-store events and donating a percentage from sales of their exclusive Brain Tumour Research ‘Pink Glitter Side Hat’ to the charity. Hobbycraft’s hat-making workshops will take place between 12-3pm every Saturday in March. Celebrated milliner to rock stars and royalty, Stephen Jones OBE, has created three one-off hats made from Hobbycraft products to celebrate the occasion. Fenwick, the independent chain of department stores, will be supporting the charity for the second year running.
Sue Farrington Smith MBE, Chief Executive of Brain Tumour Research, said: “Having such influential names embracing this campaign is a game-changing opportunity to raise awareness of this devastating disease and its chronic underfunding. The money raised, simply by having fun with hats, will go towards sustainable research that will bring us closer to a cure for brain tumours.” Wear A Hat Day was launched by the charity Brain Tumour Research and is the culmination of Brain Tumour Awareness Month. The big day will see schools, workplaces, families and individuals across the UK fundraising and taking part in fun events to raise awareness of brain tumours and help fund lifesaving research. Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. Funds raised through Wear A Hat Day 2017 will develop the charity’s network of world-class brain tumour research centres in the UK. To get involved, or donate, please visit: www.wearahatday.org Or text HAT to 70660 to donate £5* * Texts cost £5 plus network charge. Brain Tumour Research receives 100% of your donation. Obtain bill payer’s permission. Customer care 01908 867200. Charity no. 1153487 (England & Wales) SC046840 (Scotland).
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THE BENEFITS OF B VITAMINS WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF B VITAMINS?
There are eight different vitamins in the B vitamin group and all support vital functions in the human body. They are: Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Pantothenic Acid, Pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), folate (folic acid) and vitamin B12. B vitamins are integral to keeping our skin, eyes and nervous system working. They also help us to release energy from the food we eat. Vitamin B6, folate and vitamin B12 are important in the formation of healthy red blood cells. Folate also plays a crucial role in fetal development.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN SOURCES?
B vitamins are found in natural foods. Many are found in dark green leafy veg, meat, dairy, eggs, nuts and seeds, oily fish, legumes and fortified breakfast cereals (check the labels). Most B vitamins are not stored in the body for future use, so you need to include them in your diet every day.
WHAT ARE THE DEFICIENCY RISKS?
Most people should be able to get enough B vitamins from eating a healthy, balanced diet. If you suffer from dietary diseases such as Crohn’s, do not eat a varied diet or eat a restricted diet (such as vegan) it is worth seeking advice on the supplements you should take. Always consult your GP before adding any supplements to your diet. As B vitamins can help us to release energy, a lack of them in the diet can cause fatigue and general ill health. Some B vitamin deficiency can have other serious implications for the body. A B6 deficiency can cause skin disorders and a rash or cracks around the mouth. It can also cause depression, confusion, anaemia and lower your immunity to infections.
Folate is crucial for pregnant women – too little leaves developing babies at risk from central nervous system defects, such as spina bifida. If you are trying for a baby you should take 0.4mg folic acid from the time you stop using contraception, until week 12 of your pregnancy. Low levels of folate can also cause anaemia, which is characterised by breathlessness and fatigue. A lack of B12 often leads to anaemia, which can cause confusion, depression, irritability, weakness, extreme fatigue and tingling in the hands and feet. Long-term deficiency can cause damage to the brain and nervous system.
B VITAMINS AND MENTAL HEALTH
The relationship between the B vitamin group and depression isn’t clear, however it is known that these vitamins play a role in producing brain chemicals that affect mood and brain function. It is thought that vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies can increase the risk of poor mental health. The best way to ensure you get enough of these essential vitamins is to eat a varied, healthy diet. Some people can develop a vitamin B12 deficiency. If your GP suspects this, they will perform a blood test and then treat you accordingly. It is important to talk to your doctor before you take any B vitamin supplements as too much of certain B vitamins (such as B6) can lead to serious conditions such as liver damage, increased sensitivity to the sun or a loss of feeling in the arms and legs.” Dr Alexandra Phelan is a working NHS GP and Online Doctor with Pharmacy2U. For more information go to www.Pharmacy2U.co.uk.
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ALL ABOUT EASTER I
t’s a fact that for many of us Easter is first and foremost about chocolate. Confectionary eggs and bunnies of every size and colour festoon the shops, while children delight in gathering in as many chocolates as they can from family members. According to some sources, over 90 million chocolate Easter bunnies are made each year. But dig beneath the focus on sweets and chocolate and there is a wealth of fascinating stories, customs, traditions and science (namely astronomy!) that together explain why we celebrate Easter.
RELIGION
Easter is Christianity’s most important holiday and celebrates Jesus Christ’s resurrection from the dead three days after he was executed. The Easter story is at the heart of Christianity. After Jesus was crucified on the Friday (now known as Good Friday), his body was taken down from the cross, and buried in a cave tomb. The tomb was guarded by Roman Soldiers and an enormous stone was put over the entrance, so that no-one could steal the body. On the Sunday, Mary Magdalene, followed later by some of Jesus’ disciples visited the tomb and found that the stone had been moved, and that Jesus’ body had gone. Jesus himself was seen that day by Mary and the disciples, and for forty days afterwards by many people. His followers realised that
God had raised Jesus from the dead. Christians came to call this the Resurrection. Easter is really an entire season of the Christian church year, as opposed to a single-day observance. Lent, the 40-day period leading up to Easter Sunday, is a time of reflection and penance and represents the 40 days that Jesus spent alone in the wilderness before starting his ministry, a time in which Christians believe he survived various temptations by the devil. The day before Lent, known as Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday, is a last hurrah of food and fun before the fasting begins. The week preceding Easter is called Holy Week and includes Maundy Thursday, which commemorates Jesus’ last supper with his disciples. The 50-day period following Easter Sunday is called Eastertide and includes a celebration of Jesus’ ascension into heaven. Easter has been called a moveable feast because it doesn’t fall on a set date every year, as most holidays do. Instead, Christian churches in the West celebrate Easter on the first Sunday following the full moon after the vernal (spring) equinox (more info on this on the opposite page). Therefore, Easter is observed anywhere between March 22 and April 25 every year. Orthodox Christians use the Julian calendar to calculate when Easter will occur and typically celebrate the holiday a week or two after the Western churches, which follow the Gregorian calendar.
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PAGAN ROOTS
The exact origins of the Easter bunny are clouded in mystery but one thing is certain – he is not mentioned anywhere in the Bible. One theory is that the symbol of the rabbit stems from pagan tradition, specifically the festival of Eostre—a goddess of fertility whose animal symbol was a bunny. Rabbits, known for their energetic breeding, have traditionally symbolized fertility. But the bunny is not the only animal to have an association with Easter and collecting eggs. In Switzerland, Easter eggs are delivered by a cuckoo, and by a fox in parts of Germany.
THE NAME
Similarly, the exact origins of this religious feast day’s name are unknown. Some sources claim the word Easter is derived from Eostre, as mentioned above – a Teutonic goddess of spring and fertility. Other accounts trace Easter to the Latin term hebdomada alba, or white week, an ancient reference to Easter week and the white clothing donned by people who were baptised during that time. Through a translation error, the term later appeared as esostarum in Old High German, which eventually became Easter in English. In Spanish, Easter is known as Pascua; in French, Paques. These words are derived from the Greek and Latin Pascha or Pasch, for Passover. Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection occurred after he went to Jerusalem to celebrate Passover (or Pesach in Hebrew), the Jewish festival commemorating the ancient Israelites’ exodus from slavery in Egypt. Pascha eventually came to mean Easter.
THE INDUSTRY
In addition to Easter’s religious and cultural significance, it also has a thriving commercial side, as evidenced by the mounds of chocolate eggs and rabbits that appear in our shops each year. The most popular chocolate egg worldwide is Cadbury’s Creme Egg, they first went on sale in 1971. The Bourneville factory can make 1.5 million Creme Eggs every day, 500 million are made each year with one third being exported overseas.
EQUINOX
An equinox is an astronomical event in which the plane of earth’s equator passes through the centre of the sun (in other words, the sun is exactly above the equator), which occurs twice each year, around 20 March and 23 September. On an equinox, day and night are of approximately equal duration all over the planet. The March equinox marks the moment when the Northern Hemisphere starts to tilt toward the sun, which means longer, sunnier days. In the Northern Hemisphere, the March equinox is called the vernal equinox because it signals the beginning of spring (vernal means fresh or new like the spring). The September equinox is called the autumn equinox because it marks the first day of autumn.
CALENDARS
The Gregorian Calendar, also known as the Western or Christian Calendar, is the most widely used calendar in the world today. Its predecessor, the Julian Calendar was replaced because it did not properly reflect the actual time it takes the earth to circle once around the sun, known as a tropical year.
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A FOCUS ON
T
he village has been known as Timfborough, Tymmersbarue, Timsbarrow (meaning Timbered grove), Timsbyre (wooded hillside) and Temsbury throughout its long history. Timsbury has been a settlement since the Bronze Age. Some of the earliest written records show an entry in the Norman Domesday Book of 1086. The village currently maintains a pre-school and primary school, a village hall and Youth club hall. The Conygre hall is used for village meetings, shows including antique fairs, flower shows and the village amateur dramatic society performances and local art group exhibitions. There are facilities for recreation and sport, including two football pitches, cricket and rugby. There are also two tennis courts and a well equipped enclosed children's play park area. There is a social hall for a branch of the British Legion in Newmans Lane and one public house on North Road. There are also many businesses in Timsbury, ranging from Beauty and Health, to Signage and Picture framing. Tutors to Childcare.
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WHY YOU SHOULD SUPPORT YOUR VILLAGE
Being an active member of the community gives you tremendous psychological benefits. Involvement will help you feel a part of something bigger - feeling a part of a real team, so getting involved is a great first step.
YOU COULD TRY THESE FEW SIMPLE STEPS
• Take a rubbish bag while walking through the neighbourhood. Pick up any litter along the way. • Shop with locally owned businesses. When you support local business owners, you get a better level of service, as well as helping make your community a better place to live. • Find positive aspects of your community share with other people. A positive image encourages residents to shop locally, increases the chance new businesses will open in the area and promotes growth. • Attend a local festival or other event. Many have free admission and activities. • Look for opportunities to give in your community. Many schools and community groups collect items for their events, These can range from food, clothing, household items and also your time. Donating items or some of your time can leave you with a great sense of wellbeing and a chance to network with other villagers too.
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30 HOURS FREE CHILDCARE IS MOST DEFINITELY NOT FREE C
harlotte Lucas, Founder and Coowner of Welton Free Rangers talks to us about the governments new plans for childcare. It's an interesting read and especially important for parents looking for childcare. “From September 2017 the Government's promise of 30 hrs "Free" childcare is due to start. This latest initiative alongside the release of a new, poorly thought-out funding formula has meant the Early Years Sector across the country is up arms. They are concerned that the Government's demands will drive down the quality of childcare, discourage highly qualified staff from entering the profession and make their businesses unsustainable. Everyone stands to lose if this scheme is rolled out in September and those set to suffer the most will be children. In the West local nurseries and early years
settings are working hard to collaborate to raise awareness of these crucial issues, through a group called Best For The West. https://www.bestforthewest.com. One member of Best for The West, nursery owner Charlotte Lucas from Free Rangers Forest School Nursery said: "The free childcare hours are far from free. There is a significant shortfall in our hourly going rate and what the government pays us, as a business we can't swallow it for the next four years. Then we must factor in business rates increases, pension pay ins and the increase of minimum wages. Settings will have to cut costs and inevitably it would mean decreasing the quality of childcare and education or driving up costs for those not entitled to funding. Either way we need families to get involved and demand a sensible level of funding from the government or for the government to reverse their promise of free childcare and describe it as subsidised."
Another member, Clare Crowther from Atelier Nursery in the centre of Bath commented, "Families are coming to us asking to reserve a 30 hrs place for their child or children. Bath & North East Somerset are still unable to tell us our definite funding figure or the terms and conditions under which we must deliver the initiative, there is no way we can plan, forecast or even inform families of the way we'll progress until we have this vital information." To conclude it appears that Early Years Settings across the Southwest desperately want to get on with what they do best, which is providing high quality Early Years Education. But they need the support of families when it comes to understanding the unrealistic demands being made on their businesses and how that might affect the level of education their children access or the additional charges they most likely will incur�
WALK TO SCHOOL WEEK J
oin thousands of teachers and children across the country celebrating the benefits walking brings during this year’s Walk to School Week (15 – 19 May). Walk to School Week is organised by Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking and takes place during National Walking Month each May. Last year, over 14,000 classes took part; that’s around 400,000 children walking to school. Walk to School Week 2017 challenge packs are available and perfect to further encourage children to give walking a go. Each challenge pack contains everything you need to run the five-day walking challenge for a class of up to 30 pupils, including a classroom wall chart, teacher and pupil wall chart stickers, pupil activity diaries and teacher instructions. This year’s challenge will take pupils on an imaginary journey from the dramatic skylines of the city, via rolling countryside, to charming coastal areas. Each day, activities and games will enable pupils to explore key features of each environment, whilst also enjoying the many benefits of a daily walk to school.
Step up the fun during Walk to School Week by taking part in Happy Shoesday. On the Tuesday of Walk to School Week, primary school pupils, parents and teachers across the UK raise money for our walking projects by wearing their happy shoes and donating £1.
Schools become healthier and happier places when children walk to school. Walking to school is a free, accessible and easy way for children to build more activity into the day, helping them maintain a healthy weight, plus physically active children are more alert, ready to learn and achieve better grades than those who are driven.
Shiny, decorated, colourful, cartoon, gorilla feet - whatever gets them smiling on their walk to school. Register your school and we will send you a free fundraising pack, plus all sorts of fun materials to help make running the day a big success. The money raised from Happy Shoesday goes to Living Streets to support the charity’s work with schools, disability groups and local communities, and campaigning work to make UK streets safer for everyone.
A huge 23 per cent of peak-time traffic is made up from those on the school run, so the more children walking, the less congestion and pollution there is on local roads, making school gates a safer place. Despite all these benefits, the number of children walking to school is in serious decline. Just 46 per cent of children walk to school now compared to 70 per cent of their parents’ generation. We want to reverse this decline and prevent the problems associated with inactivity, and Walk to School Week is a great way to start.
Challenge your school to walk every day during Walk to School Week and make a real difference to your children's happiness and wellbeing.
Find out more about Walk to School Week at www.livingstreets.org.uk/walktoschool
SHOP AROUND & SAVE A GRAND! A
lthough it might seem to make sense to shop around, many people are missing a few financial tricks by not taking the time to make sure they are getting the best price for the things they are buying - whether on a day-to-day basis or for special occasions. There are plenty of simple ways to make significant savings on your regular spending that could clear the debt many times over in less than a year. For example, are you getting the best deal on your mortgage? Have a look around, because switching could save literally thousands of pounds. Another regular cost worth looking at is fuel bills. The domestic market is competitive and you can change supplier easily online. You could also have a water meter, particularly if you have a larger home and the family is reducing in size. Most water companies have calculators so you can see if you can save money. When buying food, make a shopping list and stick to it. As a nation we spend money on products we didn't intend to buy -
thanks to the great marketing efforts of the big supermarkets. And is it really worth buying brands or designer labels? Own label products are usually just as good but considerably cheaper. If you do have some branded goods why not sell them? If you haven't used the stuff in your cupboard for over a year, the chances are you never will. Insurance is important but you don't have to keep renewing with the same company year after year. Shop around - you'll be surprised at the possible savings on anything from house and motoring insurance to pet, travel and life cover. Other ways of saving include taking advantage of offers on websites such as Groupon and Wowcher - which have a range of offers every day from hairdressing to fashion, holidays and more. Of course it takes a bit of commitment to look for the best deals but if you are facing the average debt and are prepared to put the effort in, you could clear it within a year and still have everything you wanted.
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TEN TIPS FOR
THE PERFECT FAMILY DAY TRIP I
t’s Spring! School is out and already the children are bored. Perhaps your ‘big’ holiday is already done and dusted, or is some way off. Either way, it’s time to think about a family day trip. And whether your trip is to a local beauty spot for a picnic or somewhere further afield, be sure to prepare thoroughly for the perfect day out.
PLAN YOUR DAY
Allowing bags of time. The greatest thing you can take – whether sightseeing or getting from A to B – is extra time. Young children love to explore and don’t care for the time pressures of travel, so you’re more likely to all retain your cool if you factor the faffing, toilet stops and, dare we say it, tantrums into your timeframe.
BOOK/RESEARCH AHEAD
If you’re going to a special event, place or restaurant, it pays to book ahead, or check opening hours if this is more relevant. If you arrive at your destination to find you can’t get a seat, need to wait an hour for lunch, the museum is closed on Mondays, or whatever, then tempers will soon flare. And there’s nothing more demoralising than having to hit the road again with tired, hungry children melting down in the backseat. So, where you can, do your homework before you leave home…
BAG OF ESSENTIALS
For going anywhere, even on a very short trip, keep a small bag containing all your essential ‘bits’ - a couple of wipes, tissues, some kitchen towel, sun cream, anti-septic cream, plasters and any prescription medicines/inhalers etc.
INVOLVE THE KIDS
When you’re planning your trip, encourage your children to find out about where you’re going. Let everyone choose one activity, if that is viable, so it’s truly a family trip that involves everyone.
DOCUMENT YOUR TRIP
Hang on to bits and pieces from the day as keepsakes: tickets, brochures, a couple of postcards, etc. Your children can then make create a way to remember their day when they get home – and share their experience at Show & Tell at school or nursery.
LET THE KIDS TAKE SOME PHOTOS
If you have a suitable device or camera, or the kids have their own device, encourage them to take some pictures. It’s another way to get the kids more fully involved with the day, and allows them to record the trip from their perspective, which will be very different from yours!
GET ALL YOUR DUCKS (AND DUCKLINGS) IN A ROW
If you’re going on holiday with another family, make sure you discuss the basics before you go - for example what everyone wants to do, whether you’ll all stick together each day or whether you’ll spend time doing things apart, what you’ll do for meals…
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CONSIDER NEEDS OF TODDLERS AND VERY YOUNG CHILDREN
For young children, even if they are generally good walkers, it’s often a good idea to still take a buggy. It’s always useful for carrying your bags and is good if they need a rest or get tired in a restaurant.
TAKE SOME ACTIVITY STUFF
Whether it’s to cover a long wait in a café for food, or you’re trapped in a delayed train, you never know when you might need to suddenly occupy the kids. So take paper pads and crayons. A must-have for any urban trip!
TAKE HEALTHY SNACKS AND WATER
Similarly, you need to be prepared for any delays to normal mealtimes, so take plenty of healthy (ish) snacks like breadsticks, carrot sticks, grapes, raisins etc. Filling up on sweets and chocolate could mean kids are more likely to get travel sick, or get a sugar rush at an inopportune time.
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PUZZLES Crossword Find the answers to the questions below and fill in the crossword. 1 2
3
4 5
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11
Colour me i n !
ACROSS 2. Baby sheep 5. Colour of grass 6. Eating too much will give you tummy ache 7. The season Easter is in 8. Easter is on this day 10. Animal that has large ears and a fluffy tail
DOWN 1. What do you do with an Easter Egg 3. Easter ? What you wear on your head 4. Boiled egg holder 6. Religious symbol 9. Yellow spring flower 11. Hot cross ___
HEY! competitions WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO YEOVILTON AIR DAY RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day on the 8th July is an action packed day out for all the family. Thrilling flying displays will include the Sea Vixen, Red Arrows, Typhoon, Spitfire Hurricane, Lancaster and the Swiss Air Force display team – The Patrouille Suisse. There is also plenty of ground attractions to keep you entertained all day long.
To win, answer this question: What type of aircraft is a Sea Vixen?
WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO THE ROYAL BATH AND WEST SHOW! Over 4 days from 31st May to 3rd June, there are action packed events for all of the family, and a haven for all enthusiasts of rural life. Agriculture is at the heart of the Show with over 4500 Livestock, Sheep Shearing, machinery from the past 100 years and the very latest farming technology. Entertainment is on tap with attractions in the main ring ranging from top class Show-Jumping to the grand parade of prize winning animals, whilst the Living Countryside arena showcases the Great British Countryside.
To win, answer this question: What town is the show held in? HOW TO ENTER
To be in with a chance of winning these fantastic prizes, simply visit www.familymatters-uk.co.uk and click on the Competitions button, complete the form and enter your answers. It couldn’t be easier! Closing date for entries: 28th April 2017
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LOOKIT COOKIT I
t doesn't take you long to realise that Judy Jackson's attempt at getting kids interacting with food has a very different approach to other cook books. In fact, one look at the 'Un-contents' alone (a list of what isn't in the book) will suffice:
faces thanks to its decidedly unhealthy youngsters, and the constant relationship between edibles deemed to be "fun" and junk, it was only really a matter of time until someone came along with an idea like this.
No long recipes or lists of ingredients you don’t have. No mention of eating five-a-day or hiding vegetables in a sauce. Fruit and the green things are not to be taken like medicine, before you’re allowed dessert. No instructions for making Chocolate Rice Krispies - if you want to get messy fingers there are more exciting things to cook - like Sticky Chicken Wings or Blueberry Pancakes.
So by developing these unique tasks and challenges, which are in themselves recipes, the author has created a somewhat psychological road map to instilling good eating habits in our little ones. Rather than simply being a case of explaining which ingredients need to be mixed in order to serve up a dish, instead they are given an insight into why flavours are the way they taste, various methods of cooking, and how a healthy, mixed diet can be delicious, exciting and doesn't need to involve parental tricks. Thus appealing to their desire for independence.
With that in mind, it's probably best to focus on what Lookit Cookit does offer, which is plenty. Jackson, a food writer herself, has compiled over 25 kitchen games, 130 photos and innumerable hours of research to deliver a publication that aims to do two key things: encourage children to enter the kitchen, and get them interested in food. Not least, what goes into a dish and why those elements may appeal to their palate. The idea presumably being that when people are more aware of what it is they are eating, their diets usually reflect this with a focus on healthier options. Given the ongoing problems Britain
Each "game" comes with a star rating, making it easy to work out the age a child should be in order to take it on. The selection offered ranges from the simplest tasks to preparing an entire three-course meal, the latter best reserved for older youngsters. The final tasting, then, is an addition to the culinary bookshelf that families are likely to revisit time and time again, making for both a worthwhile investment in advance of inevitable rainy days to come, and a shrewd purchase on the part of anyone that wants their kids to understand that they are what they eat.
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April 1
What’s On
1st Easter Egg Hunt at East Harptree Woods Enjoy a walk through the beautiful woods of East Harptree woods searching for clues... and your reward will be chocolate eggs for the children and cakes for the adults. Tickets are £3 in advance for children (£4 on the door) adults are free. Tickets are available from East Harptree shop, the nursery or from committee members. The route is not buggy friendly so backpacks for infants will be required. All in aid of East Harptree Nursery Preschool and Forest School.
April 1 - 17
Easter Trail at Hestercombe The Easter bunny has dropped the contents of his basket around the Hestercombe gardens. Can you find everything that has fallen out? Follow the clues and collect a chocolate treat and an egg to decorate at the end. Trail: £1.50 per child. Normal admission applies.
April 3
Forest School for all the Family, 2pm - 4pm Join in the fun and follow our trail-game along the Sweet Track to discover some of its wildlife and the mysteries of ancient man living on the marshes. For further information and to book a place please contact Julie Merrett by e-mail: julie.merrett@ naturalengland.org.uk or telephone 01458 860120.
April 3
Nature Ninjas at The Bishops Palace Join Amanda in our Community Garden for activities including pond dipping, minibeast hunting, seed sowing and a garden trail.
April 4
Family Fun Day at Carymoor Environmental Centre Join us for 2 hours of crafts, trails and activities as we celebrate the arrival of Spring! Booking essential: For more information or to book a place for your family phone 01963 351350 or e-mail: education@carymoor.org.uk
April 7
Bonnets & Baskets Family Fun Friday at The Bishops Palace. Join our team in the Stable Yard Room for this Easter Holiday Family Fun Friday with a theme of “Baskets & Bonnets.
April 8 - 23
Go Wild - Grow Wild at Farrington Farm Join us for springtime fun throughout the Easter holidays. Make a clay flowerpot, Easter Trail, Farm trailer ride, free entry to Farm Park. Cost £5 per child. 10am - 3pm daily.
April 8 - 23
Lacock Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt The Easter bunnies are visiting Lacock and are having great fun on the Lacock, camera, artists trail around the abbey grounds. Please note that there is a charge of £2.00 per trail, this is on top of the normal admission charge. 10.30am - 5.30pm. Lacock Abbey, near Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 2LG.
April 8
Bristol Rocks Rocks, fossils and minerals can tell us the most amazing things about our planet… and they look pretty stunning too! This family Geology Take Over day at the museum is for all ages, with loads to do and see including dressing up, games, tours behind the scenes of the museum and chatting with geologists. Bristol rocks! 11am - 4pm Bristol Museum.
April 12 - 15
Phoenix Keynsham Youth Theatre presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat Broadlands Academy, St Francis Rd, Keynsham. Book tickets on 07437 958 046 or e-mail phoenixkyt@outlook.com £10 each for adults or £8 for concessions.
April 13
Holiday Family Fun at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery Explore our fabulous collections and exhibitions through creative and hands-on activities. Holiday Family Fun is suitable for 3-10 year olds with accompanying adult.
April 14
Medieval Falconry at The Bishops Palace Join us to welcome the Raptor Foundation for a day of fantastic flying displays, entertaining information and beautiful birds in the romantic setting of the palace.
April 14 - 16
Easter weekend pottery at Enigma Pottery Drop in Pottery Painting or Making 10am until 4pm. Paint a premade pottery piece (prices range from £5 to £50, no studio fee) or make something from scratch (£15 per hour including materials and firings). 01373 452079 jbarton@enigmapottery.co.uk
April 14 - 17
Bowoods Easter Trail Visit Bowood House and Gardens this Easter to take part in an Easter Bunny Trail through the beautiful grounds. Normal House & Gardens admission applies. Complimentary to Season Tickets Holders. 11am - 5pm Bowood House & Gardens, Calne, Wiltshire.
April 15 - 16
Glastonbury Medieval Fayre featuring Knights Jousting, Guns & Cannons Longbow Archery, Medieval Falconry, Melee Battles, Wicker Weaving, Living History Medieval Market, Cafe & Hog Roast, Medieval Tavern, Live Music and Medieval Cookery. Tickets available on the door. 10am - 6pm. Glastonbury Abbey, Glastonbury.
April 15
See The Gruffalo at West Somerset Railway Join us at the West Somerset Railway for a great family day out at Minehead Railway Station. The Gruffalo will be making personal appearances at intervals between 10am and 4pm.
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News and Reviews LATEST SCHOOL NEWS
EVENTS
DIARY DATES
YOUR SUCCESSES
BARNARDOS HAT DAY. TODAY, I’M GOING TO BE... A huge thank you to all of the children and families that helped make our first Barnardos Hat Day a huge success. A total of £114 was raised and donated to help vulnerable children achieve their future dreams. During the day the children shared their hopes and aspirations with each other and shared dreams in a whole school assembly. The children explained how their hats were designed and the thought processes that they went through to build them. All children shared ideas and enjoyed looking at the various designs together. The imagination shown by the designs and ideas were fantastic and varied from class to class including a rock climber hat (made from lego and string), a writer hat (design included a pad and paper, hole punch etc.) and a sailor hat (the shape of a wave, with characters and boats all over). A great day was had by all and the confidence shown when sharing ideas and aspirations was inspiring as the children excitedly shared their future successes with each other. The hat day theme 'Today I'm going to be...' transformed into a learning experience for the whole school. Mrs Waterhouse, The Academy of Trinity, Radstock
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CHAMPIONS FOR CHANGE Greenie time is a very special time every week at Midsomer Norton Primary when our children enjoy a range of activities for following our Green Rules. The Champions for Change have been asking the children on the playground how we can make Greenie time even more special by allowing them to have a say over what is on offer. We currently have a wide range of options which include: Scooter (Wheelie Play), Go Noodle dancing, Drawing and Colouring etc. Our Champions spoke to children from Reception to Year 6 and have compiled a list of the most popular options. They presented the list to Mr Randell and the Senior Leadership team to discuss at their next meeting. Some of these include a quiet room with gentle music and a teacher available if children need to talk about any worries, a 3D junk modelling area, a quiz room etc. We look forward to hearing from Mr Randell. Please get in touch with our excellent team of champions if you have an idea on how we can make our school a better place to be.
HISTORIC BOOKS REPAIRED AT HIGH LITTLETON SCHOOL High Littleton School thanked Robert Beesley for repairing the historic record books that have been tucked away in the school for over 100 years. Mr Beesley went to the Cam Valley Arts trail in 2015 and saw the old, battered books in the school library. His mother's family lived in the village between 1940 and 2000 and he felt that it would be a worthwhile project repairing the books and logs for the children and future families to enjoy. The books can be found in the schools reception area, and can be browsed at anytime - especially the “Corporal Punishment” book which makes fascinating reading.
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CAREERS WEEK INITATIVE AT WELTON SCHOOL Children and staff at Welton Primary School enjoyed hosting their first ever careers fair as part of the National Careers Week initiative. A number of visitors gave up time out of their normal working day to visit the school to share their careers with the children. Visitors included a nurse, vet, computer programmer, architect, PCSO, fitness instructor and even an expedition leader! The children thoroughly enjoyed learning about the world of work and enjoyed taking part in the sessions with many children reporting that they were inspired to learn more about a particular career. With similar fairs usually hosted at secondary schools, this was a successful opportunity to inspire primary age pupils. The school are already planning another similar event in the near future.
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JUNIOR CHEF COOKS UP SUCCESS AT ST. JOHNS A pupil from St. John’s Primary School has won the 2017 Bath & North East Somerset Junior Chef Competition. The school hosted the competition in its modern and well-equipped cookery room. Year 4 and 5 students in primary schools across the region were asked to design a healthy snack for 2 people, with semifinals held in schools and the big cook off held at St. Johns. St. John’s chose two finalists, Adelaide and Orlagh, from over 30 entries and a very hard and well debated semi-final to go through and compete against the other schools. Both children were praised highly by the judges for their skills, organisation and delicious food. They did amazingly well, being scrutinised by a total of 5 judges from B&NES and a chef from Yeovilton Air Base. Orlagh was pronounced as winner of the 2017 competition and Adelaide as a runner up. St Johns will receive £100 towards cooking equipment for winning the first prize. Well done to both girls and to everyone who entered.
ONCE UPON A WORLD BOOK DAY! Children and staff at Next Steps Nursery at St. John’s Primary School have been celebrating World Book Day whilst also raising funds for new playground equipment. Dressed as their favourite character, the children continued their ‘Once Upon a Time’ topic and baked Queen of Heart Tarts, enjoyed face painting and sold cakes. Next Steps Nursery joined St. John's Primary School last September and since then the children have been enjoying the facilities which the school can offer including the large forest school area. There are spaces currently available, for more details please contact the Nursery Manager, Mrs. Suzanne Dando, tel: 01761 235588 or visit the website www. nextstepsatstjohns.co.uk
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SWIMMING SUCCESS AT FARRINGTON PRIMARY We were all very proud of our team of swimmers who won the Small Schools’ trophy at the annual Swimming Gala in Midsomer Norton. We were up against seven other small schools, but took the lead right from the first race and maintained it throughout the event, competing in a variety of events – freestyle, back stroke, breast stroke, butterfly and relays. Congratulations to all the team who came along – Lara, Mya, Ruby, Ella, Sophie, Sam, Billy, Lachie and Teo. A fantastic triumph for the team and the school! The whole school also had a visit from Great Britain Paralympic sprinter Katrina Hart. She is an English athlete who won a gold medal for England at the 2010 Commonwealth Games competing in women's 100 m for athletes with cerebral palsy. All the children went over to the hall to complete circuits of four different activities (star jumps, spotty dogs, leg pushes and press ups) before Katrina led an assembly where she spoke to the children about her life as an athlete as well as demonstrating her skills and getting some pupils to join in. Mr Turull
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HIGH LITTLETON TERMLY TEA PARTY On Friday 10th February the Headteacher at High Littleton Primary School opened his door to celebrate the exemplary behaviour of twelve wonderful children as the termly Headteacher’s Tea Party took place. Congratulations to Elijah and William (Owl Class), Danny and Poppy (Hedgehogs), Amaya and Eliot (Foxes), Flo and Theo (Badgers), Bethany and Joseph (Otters) as well as Josh and Martha (Deer) who attended the Tea Party.
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GARDENING FOR CHILDREN At Westfield Allotments we have been working on our gardening for children project. Our aim is to encourage the younger generation to grow their own vegetables whilst enjoying fresh air and therefore promoting healthy eating. We have six raised beds suitable for all ages from nursery to teenagers. They are varying heights and there is no charge for them. If you or your organisation would like the opportunity to 'grow your own' please contact us at westfieldallotments@ hotmail.co.uk
LARGE SCHOOLS FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT!
After winning 'large schools football tournament' at Writhlington school on the 9th Jan 2017. Paulton Junior School went on to win the next stage of the competition at Bridgwater on 27th Jan 2017. Securing there place at Keynsham for the next round. Well done boys and good luck!
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FARRINGTON VISIT CADBURY WORLD Class 3 from Farrington Primary School went on a long coach journey to Cadbury World. After an enjoyable morning, singing along to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, they arrived at their destination. The highlights of the day were the 4D Chocolate Adventure, The African Adventure Play Area, The Cadabra ride and the chocolate tasting. The children also found out how chocolates are made in the factory, including how they put in fillings and remove air bubbles. The Cadbury Experience gave them an opportunity to find out how cocoa was first discovered and used by the Mayan Indians 1000s of years ago, how John Cadbury first started making chocolate and also how Cadbury’s favourite Dairy Milk chocolate is made today. After such a full day and a very delayed journey home, the children were all very tired, but glad that they had “experienced” Cadbury World. Plus, they all got some free chocolate as well!
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HEADTEACHER KIDNAPPED BY GORILLA! The children at Midsomer Norton Primary School kicked off World Book Day with a hairy banana loving visitor. A gorilla called 'Butch' charged into the school during assembly with a sack and a wheelbarrow and kidnapped the Headteacher. As Mr Randell was whisked away, the excited children were escorted back to class. This has inspired a range of creative writing this week. The children have been writing missing/ wanted posters, newspaper reports, persuasive letters and recounts about the day the gorilla came to school. One of the children said, "It was unbelievable! It was really exciting writing about the gorilla and trying to find Mr Randell." Mr Randell later returned to school after enticing the gorilla with a banana.
INTERNET SAFETY AT WELTON The whole of Welton Primary school took part in SID. The morning was spent meeting as a school and being set a challenge from the e-safety ambassadors. Children then decided how they would approach the challenge and how they would present their findings. They had role plays to watch, posters to read, power point presentations and songs to name a few. Each class had a different aspect of e-safety to research, from the SMART rules to digital footprints. It was a great day with lots learnt. Pictured are the e-safety ambassadors and winners.
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NEW PLAY EQUIPMENT AT WESTFIELD PRIMARY SCHOOL The children at Westfield Primary School Nursery have been enjoying their new all weather play area and climbing equipment. Thanks to Lottery funding and the hard working people at Pentagon Play, the children have a great outside space that helps with their physical development and provide open ended opportunities for their imaginative play. So far it has helped them become superheroes, firefighters and monkeys. Who knows what they will become next term?
DANCING THE NIGHT AWAY!
ARVON WRITING RESIDENTIAL WOW! Arvon was amazing. We set off on Monday afternoon and arrived in Devon at about 4.30pm. After a tour of the house and grounds, it was time for dinner- we had pasta bake (and chocolate brownies for pudding). The cook (Helen) was one of the nicest women I have met in a while. My favourite bits of the trip were: our rooms, the poetry writing and the food. I also enjoyed meeting Stephen May (a novelist), Louisa Adjoa Parker (a poet), Mel, Eliza and all the other helpers. I absolutely loved the beat boxer (Saquib) who came to read and beat box for us on Wednesday evening – he also writes poetry as well. We all got to have a go- we were amazing! I found the tutorials that we had every afternoon with the professional writers really useful because they have helped to improve my writing so much. I would love to go back to Arvon again one day. Thank you so much to everyone who helped to make this lifechanging experience possible.
Pictured; pupils from Kingfisher Class, Year 2, of Chew Stoke Church School going through their moves for this year’s Chew Valley Dance Festival. The children wowed their audience with great dancing and choreography to Bruno Mars’ song -‘Runaway Baby’. They also lit up the stage with their luminescent legwarmers, arm bands and face paint! Also dancing at the Festival, from Chew Stoke, was Woodpecker Class, Year 4, who impressed everyone with their dancing to Olly Murr’s ‘Dance with me tonight’.
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NEW YEAR BRINGS SPORTING SUCCESS FOR ST. JOHN'S Pupils at St. John's Primary School in Midsomer Norton have started the year celebrating fantastic sporting achievements. The school has won the inter-school swimming gala held at Midsomer Norton Sports Centre between 16 local schools. With a total of eighty five points, and five gold medals, St. John's won by one extraordinary point and the school name will be put on the swimming shield of honour for the first time in five years. It was a fantastic team achievement after just three training sessions and everyone who competed won a medal.
TRINITY WATCH BATH CITY Over 70 parents and children from Trinity School enjoyed a thoroughly entertaining afternoon at Bath City Football Club during the half term break. The visit was arranged to give children an opportunity to see some quality local sport. Despite the cold weather, the group enjoyed the afternoon, which included a behind the scenes tour and an opportunity to walk out onto the pitch for an informative chat with commercial manager Bob Chester, who was our host for the afternoon. Club captain Dan Ball, and referee Will Finnie also took time to talk to the group about the importance of working hard and playing fair. Harry and Katie joined the teams for the coin toss, and also each received a Bath Building Society goody bag containing, amongst other things, a ÂŁ10 voucher to open an account. The club mascot Bladud the Pig was particularly popular with the children who mobbed him for some photographs, as was the delicious pizza that followed after full time. After finishing off their food, the children got to meet man of the match Andy Watkins and star striker Nick McCootie. Many of the parents commented both on the warm welcome the club gave them, as well as how much they enjoyed seeing their children relishing in live sport. Oh, and to top it off The City won 4:0!
Gymnasts from the school will be representing B&NES at the Summer School Games in July at the University of Bath after winning a competition held earlier this month held at Writhlington Sports Centre. Excellent individual scores meant that the Level 2 gymnasts were first overall, each receiving a gold medal, and the Level 1 gymnasts were second overall. Last year the school was awarded the Gold School Games Mark which recognises the children’s enthusiasm for PE and the school's commitment to competitive sport, high quality PE and out of hours sports provision.
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WOW
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WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT
Iona Strachen aged 5 from Buzzards class, Kilmersdon has been awarded a certificate for swimming 10 metres. Well done Iona.
Freddie Pearce aged 7 from Ospreys class, Kilmersdon has been awarded a stage 1 swimming certificate. Great work Freddie.
Colt Coombes won a ÂŁ5 book fair voucher for inventing a new book character. Each year/ class chose one winner. Colt (age 10) won year 6. He attends Kilmersdon Primary School.
Gertie (Badger Class) from High Littleton School was presented with this term’s Headteacher Award for her impeccable manners and hard work. Well done Gertie.
Harry (Hedgehog Class) from High Littleton School was presented on Friday 10th February with his Key Stage 1 Reader Awards for Term 3. Excellent job Harry.
Louis (Otter Class) from High Littleton School was presented on Friday 10th February with his Key Stage 2 Star Reader Awards for Term 3. Keep up the good work Louis.
Lillian aged 7 has achieved a level 4 certificate for beam appartatus proficiency. Well done Lillian.
Florence aged 7 has achieved a level 4 certificate for beam appartatus proficiency. Great work Florence.
Josh aged 6 won a medal at the HEY! Gymnastics competition 2017 at Writhlington. Fantastic work Josh.
Cerys P aged 6, won 1st place in a Street Dance competition in Swansea. Excellent job Cerys.
Evie Grace B aged 7, has achieved a certificate with honours for Under 8 Latin American Dance. Well done Evie.
Daisy D aged 7, has achieved 2 certificates for ballet and tap both with distinction. Amazing Daisy.
Billy P aged 6, has been given a medal for participating in Ski school in Italy.
Rhys P aged 6, has achieved his 5m backstroke certificate. Great work Rhys.
Amelia B aged 7, has achieved 4 awards in Funky free style dance. Keep up the good work Amelia.
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Mylee aged 9 has achieved a level 3 certificate for beam appartatus proficiency. Keep up the hard work Mylee.
Lachlan aged 8 has won five medals from the Wells swimming championships and one from Midsomer Norton and District swimming gala. Fantastic Laclan, keep up the amazing work.
Archie aged 8 has been awarded his stage 3 swimming certificate. Well done Archie.
Rowan Murtagh, aged 9, has won the Wansdyke District cub Monopoly competition. He is a cub at the 1st Radstock cub group. Well done Rowan.
Herbie Norris in Falcons class aged 7. He was awarded this trophy for playing rugby. Excellent work, Herbie.
Ava Bissex aged 6, took place in her first ever HEY! gymnastics competition and was very successful in winning a gold on floor and a silver overall in her age group. Well done Ava.
Connie aged 9, won first place for her miniature garden at the Girl Guides skills competition. Well done Connie.
Lilyanna aged 10, was awarded a certificate for the best recovery of a fall when performing with the Timsbury Theatre Group. Well done Lilyanna.
Mya aged 10, won second place for baking and vegetable carving and 1st place for her table decoration from the Girl Guides skills competition. Excellent job Mya.
Bethany aged 9, has achieved her level 5 swimming certificate. Great work Bethany.
Fleur aged 9 was been awarded her One Dance Blue certificate in Street Dance and was commended. Keep up the good work Fleur.
Oliva aged 9 came second in the Swindon School of Gymnastics three piece invitational championships. Amazing Olivia, well done.
Charlie aged 9, was awarded a certificate for participating in the school games swimming gala. Well done Charlie.
Evie E aged 7, has been awarded a medal at the HEY! gymnastics competition. Well done Evie.
Millie R aged 5, has achieved a level 5 vault apparatus proficiency award in gymnastics. Well done Millie.
Eleanor aged 10, has been awarded a medal for passing her Bo staff examine in Taekwondo and also came 3rd in a sparring competition. Well Done Eleanor.
Dylan P aged 4, has achieved his stage 1 swimming certificate. Great work Dylan.
Harry Y aged 5, has achieved a level 5 beam apparatus proficiency award in gymnastics. Keep up the hard work Harry.
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Isabelle aged 11, won 5 certificates in the Girl Guides district skills competition. Keep up the good work Isabelle.
April aged 10, won first place for craft in a kit at the Girl Guides skills competition. Well done April.
Phoebe aged 6, won 3rd place at the HEY! gymnastics competition for her floor routine. Amazing Phoebe, well done.
Phoebe B aged 5, has achieved a level 4 beam apparatus proficiency award in gymnastics. Great work Phoebe.
Bailey T aged 5, has achieved a grade 4 in swimming and was awarded a certificate. Keep up the good work Bailey.
Harry D aged 5, has achieved a level 5 beam apparatus proficiency award in gymnastics. Great work Harry.
Eva W aged 6, has achieved a level 5 beam apparatus proficiency award in gymnastics. Well done Eva.
Luke S aged 5, won 1st and 3rd place at the HEY! gymnastics competition. Excellent work Luke.
Aaron S aged 8, came 3rd in the vault at the HEY! gymnastics competition. Well done Aaron.
Maia R aged 8, has achieved her stage 2 swimming certificate. Great work Maia.
Lydia S aged 6, has achieved a level 4 beam apparatus proficiency award in gymnastics. Well done Lydia.
Aimee A aged 6 has achieved a level 5 beam apparatus proficiency award in gymnastics. Keep up the hard work Aimee.
Darcey aged 8, achieved 1st place overall at the HEY! gymnastics competition plus medals for floor and vault. Great work Darcey.
Olivia C aged 9, came 1st in 3 swimming events at the Frome Swimming Club gala. Well done Olivia, that’s fab.
Izabella G aged 8, ran the 5k Race for Life and also took part in the Maypole dancing. Well done Izabella.
Liam S aged 9, was awarded 2 silver medals in the Puma Martial Arts Southern Championships and a bronze medal at the Puma International Taekwondo Championship. Amazing Liam.
Lexi Wilcox has achieved her level 6 British Gymnastics Trampoline award. Well done Lexi.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO FEATURE IN THE NEXT EDITION, EMAIL YOUR PHOTOS & DETAILS TO INFO@IGNYTE-UK.CO.UK
Carewatch Bath is currently recruiting for
Senior Care Workers and Care Workers. You can choose where you want to work from
Midsomer Norton, Radstock, surrounding villages, Weston, Bath Centre, Keynsham
and hours are available between 7 a.m. and 10 pm. We offer full training, good rates of pay, the chance to gain NVQs, paid travelling tim e and m ileage allowance. We can also offer guaranteed hours. We have been established for over 15 years and pride ourselves in providing quality care to the residents of Bath and North East Som erset. If you are looking for a career change or looking to further your career in care, then please contact Jess on 01761 411199 or em ail Jessica@carewatchbath.co.uk
We are offering a welcome incentive until the end of April, so don’t delay in picking up the phone. Carewatch Bath is an equal opportunites employer.