FREE • NORTH EAST SOMERSET EDITION • ISSUE 61 • DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018
Read more at www.familymatters-uk.co.uk
WE SPECIALISE IN TURNING YOUR HOUSE INTO A HOME
CARPET | VINYL | LAMINATE | KARNDEAN
FITTING | DELIVERY SERVICE | COLLECTION AVAILABLE
Celebrating 25 years! CARPET BARN E TH We understand flooring is the centre piece of your home and it’s important to have the right choice, quality and style available. The Carpet Barn offers a comprehensive and professional fitting service. Our fitters are carefully vetted and have many years of experience.
Unit 1a, Old Coach House, Bath Bath Rd, Rd, Longwell Green, Bristol Bristol BS30 BS30 6DL 6DL
0117 9477721
www.thecarpetbarn.co.uk www.thecarpetbarn.co.uk Check out our refurbishment later this year
FindUSusON onFACEBOOK Facebook FIND
OPENING TIMES: Monday to Friday 9 - 5.30pm • Saturday 9-5pm • Sunday 10-4pm.
Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 3
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 our February 2018 issue & is filling fast.
It’s getting closer to Christmas with each frosty morning, and everyone at HEY! headquarters are all prepared for the festive fun. This time of the year can be stressful with money worries, family ties and just trying to find five minutes of peace and quiet for yourself. Take a look at our article on ways to help you keep your Christmas cool and also ways to be money-wise this Christmas. We have featured Twas the Night before Christmas in this issue, and I would thoroughly recommend you take ten minutes out of your evening and read this most magical poem to your children. This innocent time will soon fly by, so try and make as many Christmas memories as you can. With that being said, make sure you also see our guide to Santas grottos this year. A workshop of elves and Santa in his large chair granting Christmas wishes, will put a smile on your childs face until Christmas Day…… hopefully! Winter is always a time when bugs and germs are on a rampage. Central heating and lack of fresh air create breeding grounds for these horrid bugs. The NHS have created a great app called Handi App to help identify illnesses and what you should do. Read our article on why antibiotics are being prescribed less frequently. Winter also sees the return of the RSPB Schools Birdwatch, so make sure you check out their website to see how you can register and get involved. As well as a survey for schools, there is also a version that you can do in your own garden - the perfect way to spend an afternoon with the children. Whatever your plans for this festive season, everyone at HEY! and Family Matters would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Tina Hey Magazine
@hey_tweeter
www.familymatters-uk.co.uk
4 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK
GETTING CHILDREN THROUGH THE BITTER WINTER MONTHS I
t can be slightly unpleasant sending the kids out to school every morning, even at the best of times. When it is below freezing outside, however, there are certain measures you need to take to ensure their health and safety. Of course, you can’t let the cold stand in the way of their education, and old timers would probably say it does them some good, but there are a few things you can do to make life just a little bit easier.
TRAVEL SAFE
One of the biggest enhanced dangers that the winter chill brings is associated with travelling. Whether you are walking or driving the kids to school, you need to take certain precautions. You should always make sure that your car is weather-ready. This includes the basics - ice scrapers, de-icer and windscreen wash fluid - but you should also add to that list: a spade, rugs, flashlights, water, food (non-perishable) and a first-aid kit.
S E FRE ESSON O TW TER L TAS
Ballet, tap, modern, jazz & pre-school classes Classes for 21/2 years to adults Classes in Camerton, Timsbury, Midsomer Norton & Chew Magna
New Classes starting on Thursday 11th January 2018 at Paulton Rovers Beginners Adult Ballet Class 9.30am - 10.30am Mummy and Baby Ballet Class from 12 months old 10.30am - 11.15am Introductory Ballet Class 2 1/2 years - 4 years 11.30 am - 12pm
Call Janine: 01761 479026
www.avondanceacademy.com jvealedance@gmail.com
HAVE THE HOUSE WARM FOR WHEN THEY GET HOME
Quite simply, the best part of any cold winters day (unless of course there is snow to play in) is getting home, back into the warmth. To brighten your kids’ spirits, it is always a good idea to have the home ready for them when they return from a long, cold day at school.
SHOW THEM THE JOYS OF WINTER
Parents too can be guilty of allowing the winter blues to take hold. It is crucial that you show your children the positive sides of winter and there are many. Take them ice skating, to a great pantomime, go for walks in the country and eat in cosy pubs with big, welcoming fires. When the cold becomes too much, plan trips to the cinema and the shopping mall, bowling alley and games arcades. By focusing on the positive aspects of winter, you will not only keep your own winter blues at bay, but also help to generate a positive mindset within your children. This will keep them active and energetic all year round. It may be a little bit tiring for you, but it will certainly keep you fit.
Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 5
BE MONEY-WISE THIS CHRISTMAS L
et’s face it, Christmas can be very tough on your bank balance and we can all be tempted to rely on our credit cards to help see us through the festive season. However, interest can quickly escalate if we are not prompt in paying back the money, which can leave many of us in mountains of debt. If you are concerned about your finances this Christmas, you are not alone. According to research by supermarket chain ASDA last year, one in six parents were not sure how they’d be paying for Christmas. Credit cards can provide handy access to credit when needed, though they should always be used responsibly, in order to avoid running into difficulties. With recent research from the British Bankers’ Association revealing that the nation’s average monthly credit card spending reached £7.1 billion, Asda Money offers tips on how consumers can use their credit cards responsibly this Christmas.
1. MAKE PAYMENTS ON TIME
In order to avoid penalties and keep your credit card charges down you should ensure that you make at least the minimum payment due each month. Setting up a Direct Debit to cover either the minimum payment or the full amount can help make sure you never forget to pay. Credit card companies may charge you more interest if you only make the minimum payments.
2. MAKE USE OF INTEREST FREE PERIODS At Christmas having the option to spread your payments out over several weeks or months can really help. Most cards have interest
free periods for purchases. This means that, as long as you pay your balance in full by the due date each month, you shouldn’t be charged any interest.
3. CHOOSE THE RIGHT CARD FOR YOU
There are many cards on the market and there are also many reasons for people to choose a particular credit card. Some are tempted by reward schemes or cash-back but if you tend to have a balance outstanding at the end of each month, a card with a lower interest rate might be the best option. The best card for you will depend on your spending habits and preferences.
4. CONSIDER A BALANCE TRANSFER
Most credit cards allow you to transfer an existing balance from another card, often at preferential interest rates which may be as low as zero per cent for a given period. There is usually a fee to pay but you may still be able to save money in the long run. Any balance transfer not paid in full at the end of the promotional period will be charged the normal balance transfer rate which may be fairly high.
5. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF CASH BACK OFFERS
Some credit cards will offer cash back on your purchases, helping you earn as you spend. Depending on the provider cash back can apply to all your spending, or be limited to specific stores or items. Check the details of each offer carefully to be sure you are getting the right deal for you.
Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 7
SUSPECT YOU CAN WRITE A CRIME STORY? D
o you think you are clued-up enough to have a go at writing a crime story? Could you come up with a good baddy? Are you able to make crime pay? If you will be age 17 or under on February 9, 2018, then why not try your hand? Bath & North East Somerset Library Service is offering aspiring Agatha Christies and could-be Conan Doyles their opportunity with the launch of the annual Young Crime Writers’ Competition on Monday, October 9 as part of National Libraries Week. Who will your victim be? What was the motive? It’s all up to your imagination. Pop into the library to pick up an entry form or log onto www.bathnes.gov.uk/youngwriterscomp - the web page also contains a handy Crime Writers’ Handbook to get you started.
Councillor Karen Warrington, (Conservative, Clutton), Cabinet Member for Policy and Transformation said: “Storytelling is a fundamental aspect of who we are and encouraging children and young people to have a go at writing a crime story is a great way to get them to use their imagination and develop a lifelong love of books.” Stories should be 1,000 words or less and have some sort of crime story theme. You need to be a B&NES Library Service member to take part. But if you’re not already a member you can join by popping into any of our libraries or join up on line. There is no minimum age and age is taken into consideration during judging. The competition is sponsored by The Bath Chronicle and Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights. There is a Bath Chronicle trophy, and prizes including a Kindle, books and book tokens.
Why not enter? Deadline is the 9th Feb 2018!
Unlock your child’s potential
with our expertly led singing,dancing and acting classes for 4 -18 year olds.
BRISTOL KEYNSHAM 0117 902 8925 stagecoach.co.uk/bristolkeynsham BRISTOL SOUTH WEST 0117 902 8925 stagecoach.co.uk/borehamwood
Creative Courage For Life Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.
8 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK
Christmas has arrived
VISIT SANTA IN HIS GROTTO Arriving at Radco Superstore on Saturday 2nd December at 11.30am by Horse and Cart. He’ll be stopping at Fosseway and Westfield stores on route, with sweets for children that are there to see him. Grotto located at Radco Superstore in the Electrical Department. Open from 2nd December – 22nd December 2017.
OPENING TIMES Wednesday - Friday Saturday
12pm - 4pm 10am - 4pm
Sunday
10am - 3pm
(except on arrival day 2nd December 2017)
TICKET PRICES £5.00 for non members £3.50 for members (maximum of 2 children) T&C’s apply
Colouring competition Hand in your completed entry at any one of our stores to enter the Christmas Colouring Competition. Closing date for all entries Sunday 10th December 2017 by 4pm. Winners notified on Tuesday 12th December 2017. Prize giving at the Grotto with Santa on Friday 15th December 2017 at 6pm.
Post your letters to Santa Post your letters to Santa at any one of our stores no later than Sunday the 10th December 2017 to receive a reply straight from the North Pole.
Precious memories to treasure forever
Family Christingle
Bespoke silver jewellery made in Midsomer Norton Fingerprint, hand/foot prints, artwork, handwriting
Very Berry Charms
Join us as a family at this special time of year. Build your own Christingle, music, puppets and more
6-7pm Christmas Eve at Midsomer Norton Methodist Church
S ANTA AT THE S TATI ON Santa Specials will be on December 3rd, 10th and 17th from 10am until 4pm Tickets must be booked either on a Sunday or a Monday at the station, telephone 01761 411221 or online at www.sdjr.co.uk
CHILD TICKET
£8.00 includes a train ride, a Christmas snack, a visit to Santa’s grotto and a present. Under one year old - free.
ADULT TICKETS
£5.00 for a train ride, mince pie and Christmas Punch.
The museum, shop and gardens will be open to visitors. A very small amount of parking is available at the station but Norton Hill School on Charlton road is available at weekends. Free town centre parking is available half a mile down the hill.
Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 9
BELIEVING IN FATHER CHRISTMAS W
hen it comes to imagination and pretend play, nothing sparks imagination like a workshop of elves, a magical sleigh, and the distant sound of reindeer hooves on a roof. To this day, I remember lying in bed — wound up with anticipation. I remember willing myself to hear sleigh bells and a gentle clickclack above my head. It is important for children to have a sense of something bigger — a community, a universe, an omnipresent presence. Santa Claus gives children a reason to look up in the sky and feel something bigger than themselves. Father Christmas teaches children how to believe in something they can't see or touch. Throughout their life, children will need
AT THE PALACE
9th - 23rd December 9th - 23rd
With FATHER CHRISTMAS each weekend!
Decorations, Illuminations, Traditional Nativity, Family Star Trail, Family Crafts, Vintage Come & Play Room, Music, Food & Drink
www.bishopspalace.org.uk 01749 988 111 BP Christmas Flyer 2017 (no sponsors).indd 1
The childhood memories of Santa will last your child a life time. That feeling? That childlike wonder? It's still inside most of us even now. You don't recognize it from what it is, you recognize it in how it feels — and how you remember it feeling as a believer. This innocent era of childhood flies by faster than you will remember it happening to yourself, and so you have to ask: What's the harm in giving them this one brief moment of magic? The elves, the reindeer, the sleigh. Why not cling to the magic while it's still here? For children and for yourself!
“Christmas at the Palace” 9th – 23rd December 2017 10am-4pm
Christmas
this capacity to believe: in themself, in friends and in family. Father Christmas represents love and magic and hope and happiness.
09/11/2017 12:30
This December, The Bishop’s Palace in Wells will be sharing the magic and joy of the season by hosting “Christmas at the Palace”. The site will be decking its halls with Christmas finery - each of the medieval rooms in the Palace will be decorated with a different Christmassy theme, exploring styles through the ages and bringing the outside in, with seasonal foliage and greenery from the Palace Gardens. Visitors will be greeted by roaring fires, a multitude of twinkling trees and a range of family friendly activities celebrating all the fun of the festive season. The buildings and Gardens will be illuminated with colourful lighting, and a Family Christmas Star Trail will lead visitors through the Palace & Gardens, following the stars, to end at our stunning nativity scene. Inside the Palace, discover the “Vintage Family Come & Play” room, where a variety of games and toys, representing Christmas presents from the last 100 years await you, and the East Gallery will be the location for an exhibition called “Christmas Past/ Christmas Present” with memories of years gone by. Each weekend, (9th & 10th, 16th & 17th, 23rd Dec) there will be a whole host of additional events taking place - Father Christmas will be holding court in the Undercroft – there is no additional charge for this, but tickets are limited and must be booked in advance - there will be Christmas music in the Chapel from a range of different local musicians, Scrooge will be reading from A Christmas Carol, Mulled wine, mince pies and children’s drinks will be on sale and there will be special Family Christmas Craft sessions at intervals throughout the weekends. So if you want that warm, festive feeling, just pull on your Christmas jumper and head down to the Palace this December!
10 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK
KEEP YOUR CHRISTMAS COOL The 25th December is loaded with expectation and trying to measure up to those expectations can be tough. According to the mental health charity MIND, one in five of us feels seriously stressed during the festive season, while the Samaritans expect an additional 100,000 calls during the holiday period. Much of the pressure surrounding Christmas actually comes from within and there’s a lot you can do to reduce the stress you put yourself under. Before you start to feel your stress levels rise, consider these stress-busting suggestions…
PLAN
A
perfect Christmas. It’s what we see in the television adverts, it’s what we all want for our families. The desired scene looks something like this: everyone grouped around the log burner/fireplace/gas fire, exchanging gifts (exquisitely wrapped) while looking forward to a wonderful roast followed by a jaw dropping selection of deserts and fine wines and sherries, and more goodies...
WWW.HOLBURNE.ORG
Visit the exhibition Seurat to Riley: The Art of Perception and be inspired by some eye-popping art. Admission £10 / £9 Discovery Card holders, Concs. / £5 Art Fund, Students / FREE to under 16s (under 12s must be accompanied) and Museum members
As is so often the case when it comes to stress, the key to keeping your Christmas cool is to make a plan. Getting stressed/losing your cool is usually a response to feeling out of control of any given situation. Creating a plan of action is one way of putting yourself firmly in the driving seat for the festive season. Write out what you need to do in the run up to the Big Day, and, where possible, delegate some of these tasks. You might ask your family to help out with putting up Christmas decorations. When people offer to help, for example, by ‘bringing a dish’, say yes.
By writing out a plan, you’ll be able to better see where the opportunities lie for outsourcing some of your responsibilities. Plus, if you are in danger of expecting too much of yourself – it’ll be all the clearer in a list. You may be planning to make everything from scratch, but once you see the list of all there is to do (cakes, pies, quiches, stuffing etc…), you might forgive yourself for buying in a bit more…
send you over the tipping point in a fragile social situation.
MONEY
PERFECTION
The tendency is to overspend at Christmas and feeling anxious about the amount of money flying out of your account can really mar your enjoyment of the festive period. Try and reassure yourself that you are not about to be measured by what you spend. Yes, December will be a more costly month than most, especially footing the bill for gifts. But there is no need to buy more food and drink than you need. And it might be possible to cut the cost of present buying by agreeing with wider family and friends on a cap for spending. Create a budget that you can afford and stick to it.
FAMILY
Another pressure at Christmas time is the prospect of spending time with family members you may not normally see or even get on with. Add overly excitable kids into the mix, and it’s not hard to see why divorce lawyers count January to be their busiest month… But you try and make sure that Christmas doesn’t become a memorable day for the wrong reasons. If there have been family rows during the year, try and resolve them before the festive season. Use your plan for the day (as discussed above!) to involve others in things like cooking so you don’t feel like you’re slaving away in the kitchen while everyone else is relaxing. It’s also worth thinking about how the day will pan out. Rather than sitting around for hours on end, perhaps after Christmas dinner you could go for a family walk, play a board game, or watch a good film. Avoid drowning your sorrows! Too much booze could
ACTIVITY
On the theme of the post-Christmas dinner walk, an excellent way to combat stress in the lead up to Christmas – as well as on the day – is to keep active. You may feel that the short winter days are a cue to hibernate indoors. But brisk walks, cycling or running will do wonders to help energise you. Much as most people want the perfect day, it can be hard not to get caught up in the hype of Christmas and the wish to host a perfect family day. But perfection doesn’t necessarily equate to enjoyable. Above all, Christmas should really be about enjoying time out from the usual routine. Imperfections create some of the best memories about Christmas. The collection of odd sized chairs around a wobbly dining table, forgetting the sprouts in the microwave and someone opening the wrong present… It is all part of Christmas’ chaotic charm!
YOU
Christmas day can whizz by in a festive blur without you so much as pulling a cracker or tasting your turkey because you’re anxiously watching everyone else eating, wanting to make sure they have all that they need. But remember that it is your Christmas too. Make sure that you factor into your plan time to relax, play with the kids and generally enjoy your efforts.
CHARITY
Whether you are or are not Christian, it’s worth remembering the occasion of the festive season. This is a holiday that is all about love and giving. You and your family might take the attention off yourselves and give some time towards a charitable cause. If you are Christian, or just open minded, go along to a Christmas church service, you find that you enjoy connecting to the wider spiritual significance of the day.
ITING THE MOST EXC NG INDOOR KARTI IN CENTRE R-MARE WESTON-SUPE
THROUGH THE GO, AIRLOCK YOU NA INTO THE ARE TO FACE YOUR TOUGHEST ... NGE CHALLE
K CALL TO BOO
4 01934 631 89
www.a jsKART ING.co. uk
www.a jslase rtag.co .uk
WHERE TO VISIT SANTA IN HIS GROTTO A workshop of elves, a magical sleigh, and Father Christmas sat in his big chair. There is nothing more magical for children at this time of the year. So it’s good news we have listed a few places below where the jolly man himself will be making some stop-offs.
Santa's Grotto at Cholderton Charlies Farm
December 9th, 10th, 16th to 23rd 11am, 12pm, 1pm & 2pm (max of 5 families per session) £8.50 per child In our Grotto & classrooms, kids can enjoy the following package: Private family visit to see Santa in his Grotto, each child receives a small wrapped gift from Santa. Tell Santa what you'd like for Christmas (parents can tell us 'good/naughty stories' of the children before visiting and names so Santa secretly knows before they come in who he is seeing!). Make Christmas decorations or decorate a Christmas cookie.
Meet Father Christmas in his secret folly at Hestercombe
December 9th & 10th, 16th & 17th, 23rd & 24th, from 10am £9 per child (includes all-day admission to Hestercombe) Book now to enjoy a magical experience where every child can speak to the man in red himself and receive their own special toy. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by one of our friendly Hestercombe elves, then you’ll wander through the wintertime gardens to meet Father Christmas. Make a day of it and enjoy our other Christmas events: glide around on our skate rink, follow our Get Ready Reindeers Trail, take part in wreath making workshops and enjoy a Christmas concert in the Bampfylde Hall.
Santa at the Station
December 10th and 17th Santa will be here at the station and all children who visit him will receive a present! Booking essential. Trains running. Somerset & Dorset Railway, Silver Street.
Santa's Grotto at Puxton Park!
Open every weekend in December from 10 - 4pm December 19th - 23th from 10 - 4pm Christmas Eve from 10 - 2pm Puxton are inviting all visitors to enjoy the new "Cosy Cottage" and events room, free with admission price. Here, children will listen to Christmas stories from Father and Mrs. Claus, create beautiful christmas crafts and watch christmas films. For £5 your child can visit Father Christmas and receive a special christmas present from him.
Santa's Grotto at The Shires December 7th - 24th, Trowbridge
Santa Specials at the West Somerset Railway December 10th - 24th The Santa Special offers a shorter ride than the Santa Express. It travels between Bishops Lydeard and Crowcombe Heatfield or Minehead and Blue Anchor and its a return journey. Santa will be awaiting the children at his Grotto, where they will meet him and receive a special gift. For the adults, we serve a mince pie and a festive drink whilst you soak up the atmoshpere. All the trains have a buffet car.
Santa's Grotto at Radstock Co-operative December 6th - 22nd
Christmas at the Bishops Palace
December 9th & 10th, 16th & 17th, 23rd There will be a whole host of additional events taking place Father Christmas will be holding court in the Undercroft – there is no additional charge for this, but tickets are limited and must be booked in advance - there will be Christmas music in the Chapel from a range of different local musicians, Scrooge will be reading from A Christmas Carol, mulled wine, mince pies and children’s drinks will be on sale and there will be special Family Christmas Craft sessions at intervals throughout the weekends. So if you want that warm, festive feeling, just pull on your Christmas jumper and head down to the Palace this December!
Santa Steam Specials at Avon Valley Railway
During your hour-long trip you’ll enjoy the rolling Avon Valley countryside pass by as Santa’s helpers distribute mince pies and festive biscuits to everyone. Then, the moment comes when Father Christmas himself appears and spends a short time with each family and asks that all important question; "Have you been good this year?" He’ll then give each child a quality present designed especially for their age. Once the train reaches Avon Riverside there will be the opportunity (weather permitting) for photographs with Father Christmas on the platform before you finally return to Bitton. www.avonvalleyrailway.org
Farrington Farm magical Father Christmas Breakfast Experience December 2nd, 3rd, 10th, 16th, 17th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd 8am – 10am, £12.50 per child Includes breakfast, home-made biscuit, 1 hour play in our Playbarn and a special gift. To book call the Playbarn on 01761 452266 (Opt 3) or email playbarn@farringtons.co.uk for more information.
Why not take 10 minutes on Christmas Eve to sit with the children and read this traditional, well loved poem together.
Twas the Night before Christmas Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads. And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot. A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below. When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer.
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath. He had a broad face and a little round belly, That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!
With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself! A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.
"Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, Donner and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk. And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky. So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight, "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"
PUZZLES Colour me i n !
Christmas Jokes Why did Santa's helper see the doctor? Because he had a low "elf" esteem! Who delivers presents to cats? Santa Paws! Who is Santa's favorite singer? Elf-is Presley! What do you call a three legged donkey? A wonky donkey!
What do reindeer hang on their Christmas trees? Horn-aments! Who hides in the bakery at Christmas? A mince spy! What do Santa's little helpers learn at school? The elf-abet!
Crossword Find the answers to the questions below and fill in the crossword. 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 12
11 13
14 15
ACROSS 5. Red Christmas plant 6. Another name for Yule 7. ? and the Ivy, A Christmas carol 9. ? Express, a film starring Tom Hanks 10. The number of wise men 13. Where Jesus slept as a little baby 15. Small green vegetables you traditionally eat at Christmas DOWN 1. Santas helpers 2. Where Auld Lang Syne originates 3. You kiss under this 4. What is Frosty's nose made from? 6. ? pole. Where Father Christmas lives 8. Scrooges exclamation (3,6) 11. What you will find under the tree 12. The colour of Rudolf's nose 14. Christmas character written by Dr. Seuss
ANTIBIOTICS
GIVING CHILDREN ANTIBIOTICS WHEN THEY DON’T NEED THEM PUTS CHILDREN AND FAMILIES AT RISK A
ntibiotics are essential to treat serious bacterial infections, such as meningitis, pneumonia and sepsis, but they are frequently being used to treat illnesses, such as coughs, earache and sore throats that can get better by themselves. To help parents understand more about the most common infections, how they can be treated and if they need antibiotics, Musgrove Park Hospital has developed the Handi app in 2015 (which is free to download from the App Store and Google Play). It’s aimed at parents, but it also gives advice to health professionals on a range of conditions, from diarrhoea and vomiting, to chestiness and newborn problems. After selecting one of the conditions, the app takes you through a series of questions to understand your symptoms. The app either gives self-care advice or recommends seeing a GP or other healthcare professional if appropriate. It has been adopted by eight healthcare trusts in the region, with another three lined up and has been used more than 64,000 times. Sarah Bridges, and Amy Whiting, consultant paediatricians at Musgrove developed the app to empower parents to provide information about common childhood illnesses in an easily accessible form. Sarah said: “We know taking antibiotics encourages harmful bacteria that live inside you to become resistant. That means that antibiotics may not work when you really need them. “It is estimated that at least 5,000 deaths are caused every year in England because antibiotics no longer work for some infections and this figure is set to rise with experts predicting that in just over 30 years antibiotic resistance will kill more people than cancer and diabetes combined. “The Handi Paediatric app provides self-care advice to help
families manage their children’s symptoms. “We know it can be a difficult decision for parents whether or not to take their children to A&E, and unfortunately they often end up there as they aren’t sure what else to do. “We hope the HANDi paediatric app gives them more confidence in dealing with the more minor conditions themselves at home.” “Families are also able to see the GP and hospital guidelines for more particular symptoms.” Parents should always trust their doctor, nurse or pharmacist’s advice as to when they need antibiotics and if they are prescribed, take antibiotics as directed and never save them for later use or share them with others. Chaam Klinger, Consultant for Public Health England said: “As a parent, I know how difficult it is when a child is ill and you will pretty much do anything to try and help them. It can be very tempting to go to the GP and ask for antibiotics. However, I would urge parents to think twice as the long term consqeunces of using antibiotics for viral infections such as colds, sore throats and ear infections could be devasting. “We want to make sure that we all help keep antibiotics working for serious infections such as sepsis, meningitis and pneumonia. “There are some great resources in the region for parents to use to help understand a bit more about when antibiotics should be used. We are not asking parents to stop taking children to the GP for expert advice but we want to ask them to trust the GPs advice as home care and over the counter remedies may be the right treatment. “Pharmacists, NHS choices website and 111 are also other great places to look up common aliments.”
THE RETURN OF THE POOCH: THE GRAND APPEAL REVEALS 2018 ARTS TRAIL CHARACTERS
B
ristol Children’s Hospital charity Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal has unveiled the highly anticipated secret of which iconic Aardman character will take to the streets of Bristol. In its third major arts trail with the Academy Award®-winning animation studio, not one, but three sculptures will be appearing in the 2018 event. Returning to Bristol for his second starring role in the charity's 2018 sculpture trail is Nick Park's much loved character Gromit, but this time he's not alone... The loveable canine will be joined by his pal Wallace and arch nemesis Feathers McGraw! The criminal mastermind penguin is on the loose again and the dynamic duo is out to track him down! Gromit is raring to go, but Wallace can’t resist having a nice sit down to soak up the scenery, and enjoy a lovely cup of tea at every opportunity. From Monday 2nd July until Sunday 2nd September 2018, over 60 sculptures will descend on Bristol and will raise money for Bristol Children's Hospital and the Special Care Baby Unit at St Michael's Hospital. The award-winning charity has raised over £50 million to save lives and support sick children and their families at Bristol Children’s Hospital since 1995. Funds raised have helped, and are helping, patients and their families in the hospital to have access to the best medical care, pioneering equipment, expert doctors and nurses, family accommodation and patient activities. Not only will this be the first sculpture trail in the world to feature three licensed characters, a number of Bristol's leading institutions, pioneering technology companies and international engineering firms will bring their renowned expertise to make this the most innovative sculpture trail yet. Known as 'Trailblazers', Creditcall, Renishaw, Rolls-Royce and the
University of Bristol will play a significant role in the 2018 trail. Wallace & Gromit creator Nick Park and Aardman founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton added: “It’s been nearly a quarter of a century since we brought Wallace, Gromit and Feathers together in The Wrong Trousers, and we’re delighted that they’ll be together once again in our home city of Bristol. “The Grand Appeal trails have raised an incredible amount of money for a cause that’s very close to all of our hearts here at Aardman. We can’t wait to see our beloved characters take the city by storm next summer, putting smiles on the faces of the many families and friends who adore these trails.” The Grand Appeal is the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity. The award-winning charity has raised over £50 million to save lives and support sick children and their families at Bristol Children’s Hospital since 1995. The funds we raise has helped and is helping, patients and their families in the hospital to have access to the best medical care, pioneering equipment, expert doctors and nurses, family accommodation and patient activities possible. Bristol children’s hospital is one of the UK’s leading children’s hospitals treating over 100,000 patients every year from Bristol, the South West of England, and South Wales and beyond. The hospital is an international, national and regional specialist centre of excellence for a range of services including neurosurgery, burns, cardiac, leukaemia and bone marrow transplants. The charity pioneered character-led sculpture trails to international acclaim with Gromit Unleashed and Shaun in the City and runs a truly unique charity shop and online retail store at www.wallaceandgromitcharityshop.org.uk. For more information visit www.grandappeal.org.uk.
RSPB BIG SCHOOLS’ BIRDWATCH 2018
S
chool children across the UK will be setting up bird feeders, turning classrooms into bird hides and excitedly getting into position, to watch and count the birds in their school grounds for the 2018 RSPB Big Schools’ Birdwatch. The survey, which takes place during the first half of spring term (2 January – 23 February), is the biggest wildlife survey in schools. Children are asked to spend just one hour watching and recording the birds in their outdoor space, then send their results to the RSPB. 73,000 school children and teachers took part in the birdwatch in 2017 counting more than 100,000 birds. Now in its 16th year, the survey helps to track numbers of birds in school grounds, providing an insight into which species are doing well or not so well and brings children closer to nature. The blackbird remained the most common playground visitor for the ninth year in succession with over 88% schools spotting at least one. The top three was rounded off by starling and woodpigeon. Rebecca Kerfoot, RSPB Big Schools’ Birdwatch Co-ordinator said: “Big Schools’ Birdwatch is a fun and educational activity and is free to every school in the UK. It’s flexible enough to fit into a lesson or during lunchtime and links well to the curriculum or project work. It also provides valuable information on how some of our familiar birds are doing. “It also gives children an opportunity to get outside, experience and learn about the nature local to them. The decline in children’s access to nature in the last three generations is well evidenced. And yet research shows that when children are connected to nature it has a positive impact on their education, physical health, emotional wellbeing, and their personal and social skills.” The Birdwatch takes just one hour and teachers can pick any day during the first half of spring term to take part. It works across a wide age and ability range and there's plenty of flexibility to run it as simply as teachers would like either as the centrepiece of cross-curricular studies, project work, or a way to improve their outdoor space.
Many schools prepare for the event in advance by taking measures to give nature a home in their school grounds, such as putting up feeders and nestboxes and making bird cake. Seeing and counting the birds coming to their feeders during the Big Schools Birdwatch is the perfect reward for their efforts. Since its launch in 2002, more than 70 different species have been recorded in school grounds, ranging from starlings and house sparrows, to red kites and green woodpeckers. The Big Schools' Birdwatch is the school version of the Big Garden Birdwatch – the world's biggest garden wildlife survey. The event will take place over three days on 27, 28 and 29 January 2018 and further information can be found on the RSPB website rspb.org. uk/birdwatch Big Schools’ Birdwatch and Big Garden Birdwatch are part of the RSPB’s Giving Nature a Home campaign, aimed at tackling the housing crisis facing the UK’s threatened wildlife. The RSPB is asking people to provide a place for wildlife in school grounds, their own garden or outside spaces – whether it’s putting up a nest box for birds, creating a pond for frogs or building a home for hedgehogs [note 3] From 23 October 2017 you can register to take part in the 2018 RSPB Big Schools’ Birdwatch at rspb.org.uk/schoolswatch Everything schools need to take part is available to download from the RSPB website.
Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 19
NEW YEAR NEW YOU! W
ith a brand new year just round the corner, the close of the 2017 festive season for many of us marks the start of 2018’s resolutions. Whether it’s to do with stopping smoking, getting fitter or starting a new career or hobby, making a New Year’s list of resolutions is the easy bit. Sticking to those resolutions is a much taller task. In fact, recent research by the University of Hertfordshire, which tracked 5,000 people as they attempted to achieve New Year resolutions, found that only one in ten was able to accomplish their goal. The key finding from the report suggested that people are more likely to achieve goals if they are broken into smaller chunks that are specific, measurable and time-based (given deadlines). Here’s our top tips to setting your goals – and achieving them.
PRIORITISE YOUR RESOLUTIONS
The temptation can be to write a long list of goals for the New Year in the hope that a new, more disciplined you will spring out of bed on 1st January. Try and be realistic. Hone in on one or two goals that you can channel your energy into.
DON’T LEAVE YOUR RESOLUTIONS TO THE LAST MINUTE
Give yourself some time out over the festive break to think through what it is you would like to change about your life. What would you ultimately like to achieve? If for example, you would like to feel fitter, you could work back from that goal to consider the steps you need to take to achieve that such as finding time to run or improving your diet.
HYPNOTHERAPY allows people to take better control of what they focus on – their spotlight of attention. All those pesky, distracting thoughts, all those inner voices tempting you with
muffins from Starbucks, can be quietened down with the help of a skilled hypnotherapist. Want to lose weight but need someone to help you focus on positive thoughts and living healthily?. Even habits and addictions which we see as being ‘part’ of ourselves can be dissolved, often as quickly as they began. It’s not a magic wand but if you genuinely want to lose weight, stop smoking, build confidence or enjoy better relationships then Hypnotherapy may well be the answer.
THINK DEEPLY about what you want from life, rather opting for ‘standard’ general resolutions. Yes, resolutions like losing weight or getting fit make sense for the sake of your health and wellbeing, but perhaps think more about life changing resolutions. Would you be happier in a new career path, would taking a new hobby simulate your daily routine? ENLIST YOUR FRIENDS’ AND FAMILY’S SUPPORT
Flying solo can make a challenging goal even harder to achieve. For example, if you want to cut the amount of alcohol you drink, the last thing you want is to see your partner quaffing wine every evening. Explain your goal to those around you. Your nearest and dearest will probably want to do all that they can to lend support.
WRITE DOWN YOUR PLANS – AND CHART YOUR SUCCESSES
Just as there are few things as satisfying as ticking off things from a ‘to do’ list, seeing your successes written on paper will do wonders for helping you to keep up momentum. What ever your resolutions are for 2018, we hope you achieve your goals.
20 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK
December 2 - 24
What’s On
Santa Steam Specials at Avon Valley Railway During your hour-long trip you’ll enjoy the rolling Avon Valley countryside pass by as Santa’s helpers distribute mince pies and festive biscuits to everyone. Then, the moment comes when Father Christmas himself appears and spends a short time with each family and asks that all important question; "Have you been good this year?". He’ll then give each child a quality present designed especially for their age. Once the train reaches Avon Riverside there will be the opportunity (weather permitting) for photographs with Father Christmas on the platform before you finally return to Bitton. www.avonvalleyrailway.org
December 2 - 23
Join Father Christmas for a magical Breakfast Experience at Farrington Farm 8am to 10am – selected days throughout December; 2nd, 3rd, 10th, 16th, 17th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd December. Cost £12.50 per child. Includes breakfast, home-made biscuit, 1 hour play in our Playbarn and a special gift. To book call the
Playbarn on 01761 452266 (Opt 3) or email playbarn@farringtons. co.uk for more information.
December 6 - 22
Visit Santa in his Grotto at Radstock Co-operative.
December 9
All the fun of the fayre in the Chew Valley this Christmastime! Come and join in the festive fun as once again Bishop Sutton Pre-School hosts the Chew Valley Christmas Fayre, on Saturday 9 December 2017 at Bishop Sutton Village Hall from 12pm to 4pm.
December 10 & 17
Santa at the Station Santa will be here at the station and all children who visit him will receive a present! Booking essential. Trains running. Somerset & Dorset Railway, Silver Street.
December 15 - 17
Prior Park Landscape Garden - Alight A magical after-dark trail of light and sound around the garden. ALIGHT! Wander the paths of Prior Park to discover a flock of illuminated birds, and mysterious musical boxes among the installations. This event is a collaboration between Sound UK and the National Trust. Booking Essential. Phone: 0344 249 1895. Enter at the main visitor reception on Ralph Allen Drive (top of garden). Check website for latest information.
December 19 - 21
Christmas Cupcake Class for Children with Minky Kitten Cakes Book places now to create cute christmas themed cupcakes. £20 each including refreshments. Call Sarah-Jane on 07801511274.
December 24
Christingle Family Fun Build your own christingle, music, puppets and more. MSN Methodist Church, High St, Midsomer Norton.
January 6
Pointy Paintings at The Holburne Museum Explore the work of Georges Seurat in the exhibition Seurat to Riley: The Art of Perception and learn how to re-create his ‘Pointillist’ technique. Please note that this is a drop off session for children. We are unable to accommodate parents/carers, however we do have a lovely cafe on site should you wish to wait for your child to finish their session. You may also wish to take the opportunity to visit our wonderful permanent collection and temporary exhibition.
Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 21
News and Reviews LATEST SCHOOL NEWS
EVENTS
DIARY DATES
YOUR SUCCESSES
RUGBY FUN FOR CAMELEY
SCHOOL GAMES 2016/17
Oak class went to a tag rugby event at Chew Valley School where the class was split into two teams - CA1 and CA2. Both teams played superbly—considering some of the children were completely new to the sport. CA1 made it through to the final stages coming in at 4th place out of 16, which is a real achievement. The class were also joined by two former Cameley pupils -James Molyneux and James Wear who helped to encourage the Cameley teams. Well done Oak class!
Towards the end of October, Farrington Gurney Primary School had a visit from Lizzie Christy, a researcher from Sheffield Hallam University, who came in to validate their School Games Mark application. She was very impressed with all the PE and school sport that was offered at the school and confirmed that they had achieved a Gold Award for the second year running. This award reflects not only the commitment to high quality PE teaching, but also the strength of the school sports teams, the breadth of extra-curricular opportunities and the desire for all pupils to be able to participate in a variety of sporting events all year round. Well done to the whole school community who contributed towards physical education in the last year.
DICTIONARY DONATION Cameley School were pleased to welcome Ken Biggs from the Chelwood Rotary group along to the school. Ken presented all of the Year 3 pupils with a dictionary donated by the Rotary Club. The children were so excited to receive these dictionaries. Whilst Ken was with them, he talked a little bit about the work of Rotary International and about the Water Box Campaign. This clearly moved the children because many of them commented that they are thankful for clean water. The school thanked the Chelwood Rotary Club for their kind donation. St Benedict’s Catholic Primary School Charlton Road, Midsomer Norton BA3 4BD ‘Growing Together Through Christ’
Where every day is an OPEN DAY We are a smaller than average school and pride ourselves on our caring approach and our ability to meet every child’s needs, helping them develop and ensure they reach their full potential, whilst growing in the love of Christ. We welcome children of all faiths. We also offer wrap-around care as well as an independent on-site Nursery. Come and see for yourselves what the St Benedict’s experience can do for your child.
Please call 01761 418594 to make an appointment Email: stbenedicts@educ.somerset.gov.uk www.stbenedicts.info
Pictured below are the Year 5 and 6 athletics team from the Summer School Games at Bath University.
22 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK
CAMELEYS MATHEMATICIANS Louie, Alice, Kyle and Daniel, along with other year 4 pupils from schools across in the area, took part in a maths competition at King Edward's School in Bath on Wednesday 5th October. The children attempted maths problems all afternoon. They worked really hard and had good fun, after which they were rewarded with a huge cookie! Well done for representing Cameley so well!
BUSY TIME FOR KILMERSDON SCHOOL Kilmersdon School have been busy doing lots of fund raising for ‘Children in Need’ by running a spotty dress up day. They raised £167. Well done to all involved. The school have also have been collecting Christmas shoe boxes for the Trussell Trust.
PUNCTUATION SAVES LIVES! Anna Wilson, author of over 30 books, visited Peasedown St John School on Thursday 12th October to see Y3 & Y4 pupils. The title refers to the one of her first attempts at writing at a young age. She wrote a whole page without any punctuation at all, and when she read it to the children, she tried to read it all in one breath...and failed! “Punctuation makes a story better – it lets it breathe!” (Ellie) “I liked her telling us stories of her life” (Rhea) “I liked seeing the pictures she drew when she was 3 years old.” (Becca) “Anna was really good at imagining things. She was really funny.” (Beau) “I like that she got her ideas from reading lots.” (William) “I learnt that reading is good for you!” (Kieran) Finally, she read the opening chapter of her newest book, “Vlad the World’s Worst Vampire”, using lots of expression! Back at the library, one third of the LKS2 children bought her “Vlad” book and got it signed by her.
POETRY PLEASE AT PSJ
CHRISTMAS CARDS Last term all the children from Farrington School designed Christmas cards organised by the Friends of Farrington Gurney. These designs were also used to decide the Christmas card that St John’s Church will send out to all the local residents. This was judged by one of the schools new Foundation Governors, Gemma Ward - the coordinator of the project. Well done to each year group winner – Sam (Y6), Teo (Y5), Caithlyn (Y4), Matthew (Y3), Ornella (Y2), Sebastian (Y1) and Bow (YR).
FORD FUEL OILS
www.fordfueloils.co.uk Suppliers of Home Heating Oil, Agricultural Diesel and Lubricants Also: Oil Tank replacement service Monitored top up service Boiler servicing and waste oil collection can be arranged
Farrington Fields I Estate Farrington Gurney
01761 452222
PAPERWORK PLUS MORE
Stationery Arts and Craft Shop
10% disc ount for stud ents : in scho ol unif orm or with Stud ent ID Card s WE HAVE MOVE D Opp. Natwe st Bank 01761 417502 4 Somer House, High St. MSN
PSJ School held a in-house Poetry Festival, Off by Heart, in which every Key Stage 1 and 2 class took part. In groups large and small, the children recited a chosen poem, with great expression, character and clarity. It was lovely for the school to welcome Mrs Knight back as one of the judges, especially as she was the originator of the Off by Heart event many years ago. Along with head girl and head boy, Clara and Barnaby, she had the unenviable task of awarding points for the performances and deciding which group was the winning entry in each phase. So, congratulations to Daffodil, Emerald and Atlantic classes for being winners, but really it’s congratulations to everyone who took part for setting such a consistently high standard.
You could be reading YOUR advert. 01761 410141 or email
info@ignyte-uk.co.uk
Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 23
FUNDRAISING HAS BEGUN AT CAMELEY SCHOOL The tokens collected at Tesco raised an astounding £1000 for Cameley School. The school will definitely be applying again to local supermarkets. The Childrens Christmas Cards are underway, and this year the school are hoping to have a School Tea Towel (with self portraits of the children and staff) which will be available throughout the year.
JIM GUMP An amazing assembly was held at Cameley Primary School! They were fortunate enough to welcome Jim Gump to school. He had some fantastic and inspirational stories about running and triathlons. Everyday Jim runs at least 10km and has been doing this for at least 5 years. He is helping to encourage all of the school to do something active and outside every single day. This is part of a new project called ‘Move a Mile’ that they will be launching at Cameley School.
EAT CAKE AND HELP FIGHT CANCER Every year and just for one day, the children at Chew Stoke Church School are allowed to put their healthy snacks aside and treat themselves to a homemade cake for their morning break. It is for a very good cause! The children are supporting the Macmillan Cancer Charity Biggest Coffee Morning annual fundraiser. By donating money for wearing non-uniform, buying cakes and holding a raffle the School raised an incredible £500! All cakes are donated by our lovely parents. Our annual event is attended by villagers young and old, with our most elderly villager joining us - Mrs Win Ogborne aged 101years old. Thank you to everyone who gave their support to us and this fantastic charity. We all had a great day.
SCHOOL CHILDREN REMEMBER THE FALLEN
Pictured: Coffee Morning organiser, Sue Lewis with children from Chew Stoke Church School and Mrs Win Ogborne.
It is now 99 years since World War I ended and the children at Farrington Gurney School spent half an hour on the playground remembering all those who had given their lives in wars since the start of the 20th century. Rev Slocombe talked to the children about the people from the village of Farrington Gurney whose names are listed in the churches having lost their lives in the two world wars. Each class presented some artwork and prayers that they had been working on. Mrs Garland, who teaches the children brass and woodwind instruments, also attended and played The Last Post, accompanied by some of the pupils.
Roots Baby and Toddler Personalised care from your family owned, local independent vet Now offering acupuncture and laser therapy. Call for details t 01761 412132
e enquiries@midsomervets.co.uk w www.midsomervets.co.uk
Group
1-2:30pm
At Midsomer
Wednesdays
Norton Methodist
All welcome.
Church
Room to Grow For more info: Hanna 07592735324
24 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK
JOSCELIN RAISES MONEY FOR CHILDREN IN NEED
CHINESE TOPIC FOR HIGH LITTLETON
Joscelin McCutcheon aged 8 from Midsomer Norton asked her parents, “Mummy, when is Children in Need, as I would like to be a part of it and help children who don’t have what I have?” Joscelin loves to dance, she dances literally everywhere and decided that she wanted to do a 3 hour non stop Danceathon! She designed a poster, recorded a video and then posted it on Facebook to spread the word. Her parents also set up a Just Giving Page. Her goal was to raise £100. She even sold one of her toys and donated the £10 from it to her page. On the evening of Friday 17th November, she completed the 3 hours without even stopping and her family are so proud of her. They posted regular video updates on Facebook to family and friends so they could see her progress and some of her family visited and joined in the last 15minutes with her. She danced so hard, she had sore toes! Her Just Giving Page has reached an amazing £221.50 and she literally cannot believe how much people have helped her raise. All of her family are so proud of the kind and caring little girl she is growing into and feel so lucky to have her. Well done Joscelin.
What a busy and productive start to the year High Littleton School have had! Inspired by the topic on the Shang Dynasty, Otter Class has embraced ‘all things Chinese’ from creating beautiful Ming vase still life portraits and producing fantastic dragon projects to crafting superb (and probably tasty!) spring rolls. Children rose to the culinary challenge skillfully peeling, shredding, cutting, chopping and grating the vegetable ingredients to go into the filo pastry spring rolls. Their nimble fingers coped well with this notoriously tricky pastry with one pupil managing to roll 11 perfectly formed rolls! Teachers have also been very impressed with the dragon- inspired homework projects the children worked on. They produced stunning dragon models, marvelous poetry, exquisitely presented dragon research and facts – all topped off with a fabulous dragon dance from one of our groups.
KINDNESS DAY AT BISHOP SUTTON On Tuesday 7th November the school focussed on Kindness Day. They had a special visitor from the charity ‘52 Lives’ who told the children about a little girl called Callie who was need of some special kindness. Each class created messages, cards and pictures to send to Callie to bring a little happiness into her life.
Are your children reading comfortably? DID YOU KNOW 20% OF THE POPULATION CAN READ FASTER AND MORE FLUENTLY USING A COLOURED OVERLAY OR TINTED LENS? The most common symptoms coloured lenses can help with are: • Glare from the page • Headaches when reading • Sore eyes when reading • Movement/blurring of print PRICES FROM JUST £35 FOR BASIC SCREENING. YOU DON’T NEED TO BE A PATIENT WITH US. ALL WELCOME. The Irlen Method has helped children and adults worldwide become successful rather than continue to experience enormous difficulties. IRLEN® syndrome can be a part of the problem for people who have Eye Problems, Dyslexia, ADD/HD, Autism, Asperger syndrome, Dyspraxia, Chronic fatigue syndrome, Migraine and Headaches.
APPROVED TEST CENTRE
2 MANSBROOK HOUSE 15 HIGH ST MIDSOMER NORTON 01761 413212 www.edwardsmidsomer.co.uk
Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK | 25
FOOTBALL NEWS FOR PEASEDOWN SCHOOL
STONEHENGE VISIT FOR FARRINGTON
The girls football team played at home against Westfield. The girls played really well and created lots of chances. Alana T was exceptionally good in goal, producing some wonderful saves that kept them in the game. Even though they lost 2-1, the girls should be very proud of the way they played. Well done team! On Wednesday evening Mr Lucy and Mr Lyle took a group of Y6 boys for a football league match against Paulton. The boys played magnificently and even when they went 2-0 down they battled back to 2-2 with some great goals from Jimmy and Jasper. Some super defending by Malachi and Thomas and great goalkeeping from both Finn and Noah kept the score down but unfortunately Paulton scores a last minute winner. A fantastic effort from the boys though and I am sure there is going to be a great season ahead.
Class 3 from Farrington School spent the day finding out about Stonehenge. They looked at all the evidence available to try and decide who built it and why. The children came up with all sorts of theories. One was that it was a meeting place like a town hall and they also thought it may have been like a cathedral. Some children thought it maybe a place where people could go to get healed - some of the stones are called bluestones and they were believed to have healing properties. They also thought it might have been like a cemetery, where people were buried. The stones may have been placed there to remind people of their ancestors who had died many years ago. The children also discovered that on the longest day of the year, the sun rises between the stones at the entrance to Stonehenge and many people believe that it was like a huge clock that would help people know what season of the year it was so they could grow their crops. Whichever theory is correct (and they could all be), Class 3 had a thoroughly enjoyable day.
WELTON SCHOOL A group of Welton Primary School singers were involved in the launch of a WW1 singing project with Grenville Jones' 'Goldies' charity on the 9th November - an intergenerational project to enable the young and young at heart to sing together. They performed a medley of songs including 'It's a long Way to Tipperary' and 'Pack up Your Troubles'. The children from Welton joined three other schools and a host of dignitaries at St Michael's Church in Bath - and were even featured on BBC Points West!
We would like to wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year OPENING HOURS MON TO WEDS 9 - 5.30, THURS 9 - 8, FRI 9 - 6 & SAT 9 - 4 4 MANSBROOK HOUSE, MIDSOMER NORTON BA3 2HW
01761 411414
VILLAGE SCHOOL CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF NEW CLASSROOMS St Mary’s C of E Primary School, Writhlington, celebrated the official opening of their new two classroom teaching block in October. The classrooms were required to enable this popular school to meet the growing demand for school places in the area. It has expanded from 140 to 210 places. The Chair of the Council, Councillor Cherry Beath, and the Honorable Andrew Jolliffe performed a ribbon cutting ceremony followed by a tour of the new facilities. Staff and children moved into the new £700,000 classroom block at the start of the autumn term. Lord Hylton, owner of part of the school site, kindly gifted a piece of land to allow the new classroom block to be built.
ESSENCE CAFE Homemade cakes, light lunches, great Italian coffee and luxurious Italian Gelato ice cream
F O O PR
Knickerbocker Glory, Banana Split, Chocolate Sundaes, Belgium Waffles, American Pancakes, Nutella Crepes,
NEW! Try our Winter Spice Ice Cream or treat yourself to a creamy hot chocolate Monday - Saturday 9am - 8pm
Unit 2 Holly Court, High Street, Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 2DB 01761 419977
26 | Check out our new website WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK
WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! A big thank you was given to everyone that was able to support Ubley Schools Harvest Service and market. The school have sent a cheque for over £180 to Save the Children, which is fantastic. It really does show how generous everyone is at Ubley and how aware the children are of their fortunate lives.
CHEW VALLEY CLUSTER NETBALL Congratulations to Wrenna and Alicia from Ubley School who were selected to represent the Chew Valley Cluster for netball. They competed for the ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams and both played extremely well. The ‘A’ team with Wrenna won and will progress to the next level of County Competition. Well done girls.
WOW
WHAT AN ACHIEVEMENT
NEWS FROM ST MARYS, WRITHLINGTON The children have been inspired in classes with their new topics and many have enjoyed learning through drama (retelling the story of Guy Fawkes, and experiencing a ‘disaster zone), play, exciting activities and ... EATING! Pupils from class 3 enjoyed tasting different deserts, including jam roly-poly, as a focus for work on how food has changed through time. As part of their topic on ‘The Great Fire of London’, pupils in Class 2 ate cheese to remember what the famous historian, Samuel Pepys, hid to save from the fire – as well as his diaries, of course. And lastly, Nepalese prayer flags made with flour resist, created as part of the Nepal topic in Classes 5 and 6.
EMAIL US YOUR WOW! PHOTOS AND DETAILS TO INFO@IGNYTE-UK.CO.UK OR NOW ON OUR WOW! FORM, VISIT WWW.FAMILYMATTERS-UK.CO.UK
Henry Harris aged 5 from Midsomer Norton Primary has been awarded a Head Teacher's Award for super independent writing. Well done Henry.
Alfie Miller age 6 from St Nicholas Primary School in Radstock got man of the match from two separate games... one for MSN football club and one for his school team. Well done Alfie.
Kelsey Miller age 9 from St Nicholas Primary School in Radstock participated the Bubble Rush. Great job Kelsey.
Zac (Deer Class) was presented the Headteacher’s Award at the end of Term 1 for the way that he conducts himself in and around school. Well done Zac.
Anetka (Deer Class) was presented with this term’s Star Reader awards for Key Stage 2. Great job Anetka.
Isabella (Fox Class) was presented with this term’s Star Reader awards for Key Stage 1. Amazing work Isabella.
Chloe Wall at Kilmersdon C Of E Primary School achieved highly commended in her ballet exam. Well done Chloe.
Bethany Wall, aged 9 from Westfield Primary School has won 2 trophies for 6th and 7th place in a recent Freestyle Dance competition Amazing work Bethany.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO FEATURE IN THE NEXT EDITION, USE OUR NEW UPLOAD FORM ON www.familymatters-uk.co.uk