Country Child Winter 2019 - Hampshire and Wiltshire by Country Child

COUNTRY CHILD Wiltshire/Hampshire

Your Local Free Family Magazine

Winter 19 / Issue: 37

SATs STRESS

The pressure to pass the test

FIRST AID FRIEND Marina Fogle on First Aid

WINTER WOOLIES What's keeping us warm this year?

GENERATIONS

Living with and caring for elderly family members

CALLING ALL PARENTS When to give children a mobile phone

WHAT’S ON ■ SHOPPING ■ HOME ■ SCHOOLS ■ FOOD ■ GARDEN ■ COMPETITIONS ■ HEALTH

Give your child the best possible start

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Welcome to Winter

eason’s Greetings from us all here at Country Child. It’s that magical time of year when children will be learning their lines for the Nativity, parents will be preparing themselves for the inevitable excitement of the Christmas holidays and our calendars will start filling up with an array of festive events. We’ve had a lot of fun compiling this winter’s magazine and hope you enjoy perusing the pages, with a mince pie in hand! Parents with children who will be sitting SATS exams later this academic year are likely to find our article on page 31 an interesting and informative read. Primary school teacher Aimee Strongman has endeavoured to answer some of the most common questions regarding these primary school assessments. After 10 years of campaigning by The Red Cross, first aid lessons are to become compulsory on the school curriculum in England from 2020. I spoke to campaigner, tv personality and co-founder of the Bump Class Marina Fogle, to learn why she is so excited by the news. You’ll find the interview on page 11. Caring for the older generations is becoming increasingly

common in this day and age. Jo Leigh candidly shares her own experiences of caring for her ageing parents and offers some insightful advice to those who find themselves in a similar situation. The winter months are often looked upon as the most difficult when it comes to entertaining our children outside; the shorter days and colder weather can often result in our offspring wanting to remain indoors, often in front of a screen. I recently challenged my family to join me on a quest to find enjoyable (and achievable!) outdoor winter activities – see how I got on, on page 25. Mobile phones. There’s no denying it, these hand-held devices have become an intrinsic part of our lives; how lost do we feel when we leave our phones at home for a day? Well, it’s really no surprise to learn that a ‘Mobile’ is high up on many children’s Christmas Wish Lists. But when is the right time to give our children a phone? It is, without doubt, a minefield, but on page 35 I share some of the advice I’ve found online and gleaned from friends on the topic. Of course, at this time of year, the Country Child team have had a lot of fun selecting gorgeous products for our Country Child Loves page 13 – credit card at the ready! Equally so, our Christmas Gifts for under £25 has been compiled with all of the family in mind; if there’s someone you’ve yet to buy for, head to page 9 for a little festive inspiration. It goes without saying, our Calendar of Events (pages 22 and 23) is properly packed at this time of the year – wherever you are across the south, there’s plenty going on, the challenge is not to double book yourself! We’ve got some superb competitions and giveaways dotted throughout the magazine too: Good Luck to all who enter. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy 2020!

Meet the team... PUBLISHER

Jo Leigh jo@countrychild.co.uk

EDITOR

Miranda Avis miranda@countrychild.co.uk Follow us

@countrychildmag @countrychildmagazine @countrychildmag

Neither Country Child Limited (trading as Country Child Magazine) nor any of its predecessors, affiliated companies, directors or employees, shall be liable for the accuracy or reliability of any of the content (including advertisements) published in Country Child Magazine or other information accessed directly or indirectly from Country Child Magazine, nor shall they be liable for the quality of any products, information or other materials displayed, purchased or obtained by any consumer, as a result of an advertisement or any other information or offer in connection with the service or products. Country Child Limited shall not be responsible for any errors or omissions contained within any content (including advertisement) published in Country Child Magazine.

Media Sales

Matthew Cull

Contributor

matthew@ aroundtheclockmarketing.co.uk

Beth Green-Lowman

Writer

Hanne Bonczoszek

Cover and Feature Photography by

Millie Pilkington

CONTRIBUTORS: Lee Keeling, Ludwell Primary School, Perrott Hill, Somerset, Lynda Lawrence, Holiday Inn Winchester, St James Place, Story Terrace, James Harvey and Marina Fogle. CREATIVE ARTWORK: Hanne Bonczoszek. DISTRIBUTION: Katherine Shean, Jessica Rowland, Jennifer Oakes, Geoff Humphries, Rick and Micky Poyser.

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Contents

Winter 19/20

Great Outdoors Stunning Starlings

WIN Wellbeing Spa Experience Time off at a brand new local Spa

Winter Woolies Warm Weather Wears

Country Child Loves Favourite Finds

What's in Store Festive Gifts for Under £25

Interior Ideas Feeling the Love

15 7 Family Frolics & Fiascos - Hanne B’s frolics and fiascos when making a festive wreath. 10 & 11 First Aid Friend - Marina Fogle on First Aid. 13 Country Child Loves - Seasonal picks for this winter. 15 to 19 Generations - Living with and caring for an elderly family. 21 What's On - Places To Go and Things To Do. 22 & 23 Calendar Pull-Out - What’s On this festive season. 24 & 25 Seasonal Spirit - Miranda and her family get active, whatever the weather. 27 Great Outdoors - The stunning scenes of the Starling Murmaration. 28 & 29 Winter Woolies - What to wear to keep warm this winter. 31 SATs Stress - The pressure to pass the test. 32 Bookworms - Book reviews from children at a local school. 33 Top Marks - All the news from the schools, plus Meet the Head interview. 35 Calling All Parents - When to give children a mobile phone. 37 Food Glorious Food - Festive Feast ideas, plus book giveaway! 39 Interior Ideas - Country Child is feeling the love this season. 41 Window Shopping - We scour the counties for Period Properties with Promise. 42 Open For Business - Booming business news and the latest financial advice.

Generations Coping with an elderly family

What's On Local and live entertainment

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Family Frolics & Fiascos By Hanne B

reath Making – it said on the pretty little calligraphed note at my local coffee shop. ‘Why not?’ I thought and gave Lizzie a call. ‘I do own a forest, you know. You are more than welcome to collect some foliage to stick your front door if that is what tickles your fancy?’ Lizzie clearly was not enamoured with the idea at first, but, a week later, we knocked on the door to a small cottage in Wiltshire and I could tell she was actually quite excited. We each had a bag full of foliage from Lizzie’s forest and while we waited for the wreath-making lady to open the door, Lizzie opened her bag to let me see the contents. ‘I really just picked Juniper branches’ she said with a cheeky smile. The scent of Juniper hit me the way a cleaning product in a spraybottle does. ‘And look! I got these adorable little ornaments on Etsy.’ she said with added enthusiasm. ‘They are gin-inspired. Or ginspired if you will.’ I looked at her perhaps a little puzzled, but she continued; ‘This one is a little bell and it says “gin-gle bells” on it!’ She laughed heartily. I pulled out a tiny string of bunting from Lizzie’s bag and read the words on each little triangle as I reached it. “La la la la la la la la Gin.” Even my daughter, waiting just behind us with the dog couldn’t help but giggle. ‘Welcome to wreath making’ chirps the wreath-making lady. She shows Lizzie to one table while my daughter and I are instructed to share another. ‘Please place your foliage under your tables to ensure you have room to make your wreaths’. My daughter and I are eagerly pinning little pine twigs on to a ring made of straw. ‘This is fun, don’t you think? I ask her, loving our mother-daughter bonding moment – those are so few and stolen these days. ‘Move on now, to your decoration foliage’ wreath-making lady instructs in a loud, clear voice whilst clapping her hands and, for a

moment, I feel like I am on bake-off. My daughter ducks under the table to grab some of our forest foliage, but when she pops back up her facial expression has changed to one of befuddlement. ‘Mum? Why is it all wet?’ I do what all mothers do, yet what no mother ever should; I lift the moss to my nose and smell it. ‘Oh my god!’ I say and continue in a controlled whisper through my teeth; ‘where is the dog!?’ The dog is taking a nap under Lizzie’s table. Apparently, the pile of juniper twigs is “the napping area”, whereas the space under our table is “the toilet area.” In all the excitement, I had completely forgotten to walk him after our car journey. Lizzie laughs, my daughter eventually laughs although the expression of disgust takes some time to wear off. Wreath-making lady is not laughing. ‘You’ll just have to share foliage with your friend,’ She says and hands me an old cloth with which to wipe the floor. ‘Throw that out when you are done, please.’ As we are unpacking the car back home and just as we delicately extract our homemade wreath from the boot, Esther’s teacher walks past us with her dog. ‘I made a wreath’, says Esther ‘Look!’ At first, Esther’s teacher is taken aback by the smell of Juniper. But her head does not move back quite far enough. I know this, because judging from the look she sends me, I know she’s spotted all the little puns that adorn our masterpiece. ‘Let the festivities be-gin.’ I say. I know when I’ve been beaten… Hanne Bonczoszek is a local author whose first Children’s book ‘Esther’s Invisible Grandma’ is available via facebook.com/ invisiblegrandma. Hanne lives in Salisbury with her husband, her two children and a Cockapoo named Enzo.

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“ My children spend a lot of time playing in woods and inevitably they get hurt – but it’s about giving them the skills to know what to do should someone get really hurt.

“

First Aid Friend Miranda chats to Marina Fogle about her quest to support compulsory first aid training for children in our schools

fter 10 years of tireless campaigning by The Red Cross, first aid lessons are to become compulsory on the school curriculum in England from 2020. Nobody could be more supportive of this decision than campaigner Marina Fogle. Miranda caught up with the co-founder of the Bump Class and wife of the television presenter Ben Fogle, to learn why she is so excited by the news. Miranda: After 10 years of campaigning, you must be delighted that this legislation has finally been passed? Marina: Yes, absolutely! However, although it is mandatory in schools in England to teach first aid from September 2020, it is only optional for the devolved nations. The British Red Cross now wants it to be a compulsory element of the curriculum in all schools. Miranda: Why are you so passionate about this initiative? Marina: I’m the sister and daughter of doctors and I’ve witnessed how empowering it is to help someone who is in serious trouble. And while I can’t just casually train to be a doctor, someone who has done a first aid course is going to be a huge help in a crisis. I remember watching the footage after the Westminster bombing and seeing how people with varying degrees of first aid knowledge helped before the emergency services got there. Miranda: As a mother to two children, have you benefited from first aid training yourself? If so, how did you feel once you’d learnt some key lifesaving skills? Marina: I’ve treated a choking child – choking in children is quite common and what I’d have instinctively done, sticking my finger down their throat is actually the worst thing you can do, so the three hours I spent doing first aid were three hours pretty well spent. Miranda: Have your children benefitted from first aid training? Marina: I’ve told them what to do in a

disaster – I’m pretty confident that they could dial 999. It’s also about understanding when things have got critical. My children spend a lot of time playing in woods and inevitably they get hurt – but it’s about giving them the skills to know what to do should someone get really hurt. We often go through scenarios with them. Miranda: Almost a quarter of children (23 per cent) have experienced a situation where someone needed first aid but the majority (62 per cent) said they would feel helpless to act if they witnessed an accident and someone was injured. How does this make you feel?

parents in the UK would not be able to save their baby from choking. But this is much easier than you might think.

Marina: So frustrated – this could be so easily fixed. We need to think about the impact on a child who has watched someone in need of help and not be able to give it. I met a 14-year-old boy who had resuscitated someone who’d collapsed at a bus stop. His chest compressions saved the man’s life and talking to him afterwards, I realised how he’d grown as a person. In an age where we’re scrutinised and told we aren’t good enough on social media, where anxiety is more commonplace, the feel-good factor of knowing you’ve helped has the potential to help everyone involved. Miranda: In your opinion, what are the key areas that need to be covered in the training throughout schools?

Miranda: How do feel this training will help society as a whole?

Marina: The skills that children will learn in school will depend on their age. For example, in reception they will be taught how to dial 999 and in secondary school they’ll learn how to apply chest compressions etc. Each year they will learn new skills and their lessons will reinforce what they already know so, as they become adults, they’ll ideally have the confidence and knowledge to know what to do in any given situation. Miranda: Are there common topics that parents/ children are anxious to learn how to deal with? Marina: Research shows that parents are particularly anxious about their babies choking, especially when they are weaning. Research suggests that three out of four

Research also found:  65% of parents wished they had learnt some first aid skills before having a baby  A third of parents of children under two have never attended a first aid course.  More than 40 per cent of parents who took their child to A&E went because they were worried and didn’t know what to do.  Knowledge helps: Febrile seizures are particularly frightening if you aren’t aware of them.

Marina: To exist in a society where your life can be saved by people who just happen to be with you, who know what to do in a crisis has to have a massive feel-good factor. Miranda: Where next with the campaigning? Marina: In Wales A new curriculum will be introduced to schools in Wales from 2022. The Welsh Government held a consultation this summer, inviting members of the public to have their say on what should be included. The British Red Cross is advocating for first aid to be included as a compulsory part of the school curriculum in Wales. In Scotland The Curriculum for Excellence includes Health and Wellbeing, which has six components ‘mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing’ and ‘physical education, physical activity and sport’. The Health and Wellbeing benchmark for children by the end of primary 7 includes a benchmark of being able to perform basic first aid procedures. However first aid still isn’t taught widely in schools across Scotland. So we will continue to promote the British Red Cross’ first aid work and seek changes to the curriculum so first aid education in schools is a statutory, national level commitment.

WIN Wellbeing Spa

Experience

ne lucky winner and guest will enjoy a Spa experience for two at the new ANA Spa, recently opened at the 4 Star Holiday Inn Winchester, part of the hotel’s recent £3 million refurbishment, which also includes the hotel’s new Odyssey Restaurant. The full day Wellbeing Spa Experience is from 10.30 am until 5pm and includes use of all the new facilities - the Vitality Pool, Himalayan Salt Sauna, Sensory Shower, Steam Room and Foot Spa and Gym. All treatments are carried out by experienced therapists using the Elemis luxury British skincare range.

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The prize package will include:  Juice, herbal tea or coffee on arrival.  Full use of the spa facilities including the Vitality Pool,  Himalayan Salt Sauna, Sensory Shower, Steam Room and Foot Spa and Gym.  A two-course Lunch in the Spa.  55 minute full body massage or an indulgent body wrap.  55 minute relaxing ELEMIS facial.  £10 ELEMIS voucher redeemable in the ANA Spa.

For a chance to win this relaxing Spa Break just answer the following question:

What is the brand name of the luxury British skincare range that is used in the new ANA SPA? To enter the competition please visit: hiwinchester. co.uk/country-child-magazine-competition.

Terms and Conditions: Closing date for entries is 14th January 2020. Only one entry per person. The winner will be decided by draw. The judges decision is final. No cash alternatives are available. The prize is for an ANA Wellbeing SPA Day for 2 in the hotel’s ANA Wellbeing SPA including 2 x 55 treatments each for the winner and their guest. 2 course Lunch in the SPA’s Lounge. (Any additional food and drinks to be paid for by the winner and guest.) By entering this competition you accept that your data can be passed to our sponsors IF YOU CHOOSE TO OPT IN to receive the hotel’s monthly e-newsletter - please state on your entry. Date for the winner to take their prize will be subject to availability. Employees of Country Child Magazine and of the Holiday Inn are not allowed to submit entries. The winner to agree to follow-up publicity on both the Holiday Inn Winchester and Country Child website.

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BOLD BLANKETS

rom the “Little London” range of exclusive babywear created and sold by Historic Royal Palaces, this blanket is the perfect winter warmer. A 100% cotton blanket measuring 75cm x 75cm. £24.99 historicroyalpalaces.com

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ADVENT CALENDARS

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Generations

Jo Leigh looks back on her journey of caring for her older parents. Here she shares her own advice and support to Country Child readers.

’ve always known that I had older parents than most. And, for many reasons, this has been a blessing; traditional rules and upbringing (only really appreciated now that I am a parent myself ), a humble outlook on the world that surrounds us all, but mainly the overwhelming love bestowed upon me. Of course, there’s always a flip

side to these things such as birthday requests rarely being met, handme-down clothes and a lack of understanding or appreciation for the modern world. These benefits and disadvantageous are common in most families, however they are more noticeable later on in life when the imbalance starts to have an effect. With two children under

10 and one set of grandparents both being over 80, it’s akin to gaining two additional children to look out for. I say ‘look out for’ as, quite rightly, ageing family members can indeed take care of themselves, for a time. However, I found, as time passed, I was questioning my parents’ ability to do certain things and this inevitably became more and more heightened.

Continues overleaf...

Generations continued...

ow, if you are a working mum in your 40’s with the two dependants both in the twilight years of their lives, caring for them, quite frankly, becomes your third job. At my stage of parenting, with two young children, many a grandparent would still be able to help out with childcare, and for a huge number of families, grandparents are a massive cog in a family’s well-oiled machine. Although, in all probability, there will come a time when it’s your time to look out for them. That is, if they are willing to be cared for. Pride plays a huge part in whether an older family member will accept help from a son or daughter. However, with support, advice and sensitivity, it is possible to reach a happy medium I suppose the first area of concern is

he changing face of families relationships in the UK has led to a huge surge in demand for legal experts who specialise in disputes over wills. 'Contentious Probate', an area of law which typically involves families at odds over a loved one’s estate is now a major part of a legal firm’s work. Cartmell Shepherd has one of the biggest specialist teams, among them is managing director of the UK200 law firm, Peter Stafford who said: “We are seeing a marked increase in the number of people seeking expert advice on issues of contentious probate. It is basically a reflection of the complexities of today’s society and relationships compared to, say 20 years ago. There are far more instances of individuals with children having second marriages, people cohabiting but not necessarily

ensuring that the relative to whom you feel a level of responsibility and care, has an up to date Will and Power of Attorney forms organised. The earlier this is done the better, and encouraging them not just to look at this from their own perspective (and how it will benefit them later on), but also for the well-being of their family members. I have experienced many a tricky family situation that has escalated due to lack of proper future planning. The next step might be assessing your older relative’s ability to cope in their own home. Should they down size now to save a move later down the line when perhaps things are less straightforward; both physically and mentally? Some councils offer outreach personnel to visit and assess a situation to give advice on next steps, support available and financial grant schemes. Another suggestion could be a financial advisor to look at ways of juggling and investing funds after a property sale and purchase, or perhaps following a move into various care facilities, such as retirement complexes or care homes. Once the decision to relocate has been made, whether it be into a family member's home or an independent dwelling or shared accommodation, you’ll embark on the task

marrying or making a will, or indeed complexities within family units which are intact, but for whatever reason, fractured." The Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS) was established in 1997 for lawyers specialising in contentious trust and probate work. Its objective is to provide a forum for specialists to exchange experiences, know-how and an appreciation of the law and statutes in what is a specialist area. Members are bound by a strict code of conduct. Stephanie Johnson a member of the Cartmell Shepherd team said: “One of the areas in which I am seeing an increase in activity is lasting powers of attorney relating to how decisions are made when people have lost, or start to lose the capacity to make them for themselves. There is so much more awareness in this area now, as more and more people put plans in place." cartmells.co.uk

of packing up belongings and deciphering what is hoarded junk and what are valuable assets that could help pay for care of all kinds. The Auction Hub featured opposite is one such service that can help sell items of commercial value. Having recently gone through a variety of these processes in the last few years, I can honestly say it has been a truly demanding time. Not only do you have your own family responsibilities to consider but you have additional expectations from dealing with advisors from all sectors, medical, financial, nursing, government, property, auctioneers, removals, funeral directors, charities and many more... That’s why I’ve compiled some expert opinions to help you should you be embarking on this journey, and also for families of all ages and generations to deal with this challenge together and not to try to do it alone. Extended family can be there to help and you may find that sharing the load can ease the challenge for all involved.

isitEngland and VisitScotland have launched a new guide to help tourism businesses become more dementia-friendly. The Dementia-Friendly Tourism Guide, launched in partnership with Alzheimer’s Society, supports tourism businesses in accommodating visitors living with dementia through top tips, case studies and signposts to resources. Visitors with dementia face a number of challenges including having the confidence to travel, communicating in noisy environments and becoming disorientated when navigating new places or long routes. Leading dementia charity Alzheimer’s Society is at the forefront of the biggest ever social action movement in dementia – Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Friends, which aims to transform the way the nation thinks, acts and talks about the condition, the guide is just one incentive launched. The UK tourism is pledging to make the UK the most accessible tourism destination in Europe by 2025. Download the DementiaFriendly Tourism Guide via visitbritain.org

ombining the service and expertise you would expect from a traditional auction house with the speed and efficiency of 21st century technology, The Auction Hub is transforming the world of auctions. Founded by James Harvey, the company is a UK-based online auctioneer with global reach, selling antique and contemporary items including fine art, cars, furniture, collectables and more. James started his career at Phillips Auctioneers, followed by a period working in London and New York

ust because saving for retirement is difficult, it doesn’t mean you should give up, because the good news is that the government will help boost your pension contributions. For some, the question is not how to retire successfully, but how to retire at all, given that there may be precious little in the way of a state safety net to fall back on. Research from the Financial Conduct Authority reveals that around 15 million individuals are not saving anything towards their retirement and will have to rely entirely on the State Pension in their later years.1 Of particular concern is the group of pre-retirees aged 55–64, only half of whom have given thought to how they will manage in retirement; and

for Mallett. More recently he was CEO of The Fine Art Auction Group with auction and retail businesses in Berkshire and London. He is now putting his years of expertise to further use, helping those wishing to sell quality items to interested buyers. For those looking to clear a house, The Auction Hub provides a complete solution with the ability to consider all consignments at varying price points for items of commercial value. James Harvey said, “The Auction Hub is proud to be bringing the high standard of service you would expect at a traditional auction house to the web. Whilst other online auction services exist, what sets us apart are our highly efficient systems, expertise gained from decades of experience in the trade and a sound understanding of what our clients are trying to achieve." “Having worked for a leading regional auctioneer and as a consultant, I saw the opportunity for an online auction house which embraces modern technology, providing efficient solutions for both the volume and specialist areas of auctioneers. We offer home valuations and welcome consignments

at all price points and of all periods and genres. All lots are appraised and catalogued by our specialists and the items are then sold via Auctionet.com, Europe’s leading auction marketplace with a selling platform with more than 320,000 registered users.” As a result of the partnership with Auctionet, The Auction Hub can sell items faster than traditional auction houses, making it perfectly positioned to provide a bespoke service for those wanting to find a new home for their quality, pre-loved items. James added, “Combining forces with Auctionet provides a platform that enables us to deliver these solutions. The Auction Hub is a modern auction house with local presence and global reach.” Whether it’s an estate clearance, downsizing or decluttering your home, The Auction Hub’s team of experts will thoroughly assess the items in any property, offering expert advice and assistance every step of the way. Sellers also have access to The Auction Hub’s online portal which offers insights and full control over their sales. For more information about The Auction Hub, call 01373 822337 or visit theauctionhub.uk.

only a quarter know how much they have in their pension pot.2 These people may only have a few working years left to build their nest egg. Why do so many people fail to plan their retirement? This could be partly due to massively underestimating the amount of money they need to save. Only 7% of people aged 55–64 today expect to live to 90, but research indicates that half of them can expect to live that long.3 The obvious implication is that many retirement pots will run out too soon. The solution is to plan. You have to ask yourself: how much will I need, and how much can I afford to put away? Then you need to factor in any other sources of retirement income and you can see the size of the gap you are trying to fill. Obviously, the younger you are, the longer the investment time horizon and the

most you will have to gain when thinking ahead. It’s vital that savers know and understand all their options for using their pension; but also that they make the most of the current tax breaks while building one, so taking advice is crucial to check your plans are on track. To receive a complimentary guide covering wealth management, retirement planning or Inheritance Tax planning, contact Peter Harding Wealth Management peterhardingwm.co.uk Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Lives Survey 2017 3, BlackRock, Global Investor Pulse Survey 2017

}1,2,

Moving, downsizing or clearing out your house?

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2019-10-30 14:46

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Generations continued...

ith the likes of TV documentaries such as 'Who do you think you are?' staying strong on our screens, the thought of documenting a life story you may have thought was left to just celebrities. But now you can publish your own biography to leave as one of the most special heirlooms. Story Terrace, a service which helps everyday people to write their biographies, tells us why documenting our personal histories is vital for kids and future generations If you think about members of your family, your thoughts probably land on loveable idiosyncrasies, funny moments around the dinner table or on holiday, as well as the challenges, achievements and milestones they have reached. The same is going to be true when a family member thinks about you. So consider documenting your personal history for not only you, your close ones of this generation, but for your kids, too. As

they get older, they will have so many questions about how you lived, when you were their age, the thoughts you had, the person you were. Learning about your parents or grandparents (and realising that they, too, are human!) can answer a multitude of questions about yourself: why you dance the way you do, which activities you seek out for fun, or even why you have a particular sense of humour. It may also provide them with a stronger sense of personal identity – they now have a better understanding of their lineage, those who came before them, and what went into making them who they are today. Finally, writing a biograhy doesn’t just document your life-story; it documents a period of time. Our actions and reactions are all shaped by the society we live in, the ‘big topic’ conversations that are being held both nationally and internationally, and social trends that influence our

everyday communication with one another. Making a biography will also serve as a record of the time you lived in – the social movements you were a part of, perhaps discrimination overcome, or lessons learned. Creating a biography will not only allow you to properly reflect upon your life, but will also allow your loved ones to truly discover who you really are, ultimately bringing you that much closer together. storyterrace.com

ramaCare, who provides home care support for people around Dorset, noticed that a proportion of its clients did not have anyone to help collect things together or pack a bag for an emergency hospital visit. The solution has been relatively simple with fund raising to buy bright red holdalls including checklists, big enough for essentials but small enough to sit ready to go when needed. Having a Red Bag packed with he death of someone we love, at toiletries and personal items to get hen a crisis happens any stage in our lives, is difficult to through a short stay and back home in to someone close you cope with. No matter how expected comfort can make all the difference. For concentrate your attention, care and and the preparation that could be more information. pramacare.co.uk support on them, but what about done while the person is alive, the the effect it can have on you – who moment of death will still feel sudden cares for the carer? It’s sometimes and a shock. difficult to realise you too need care As an adult, dealing with personal and support as your health could feelings about death is difficult. take a hit whilst caring for someone If you have children who are else’s. ThinkWell-LiveWell is a new experiencing grief with you, it can mindfulness online toolkit which could be almost unbearable. Marking the be really handy for individuals in such moment with memorial jewellery a position. that incoporates ashes or hair could Try it for your self via the website: help ease the pain and give comfort. thinkwell-livewell.com ashesmemorialjewellery.com

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Helping children believe they can do anything Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds stagecoach.co.uk/blandfordforum blandfordforum@stagecoach.co.uk 07702 104572

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.

What's On

Carols at Christmas!

ack by popular demand, Salisbury Cathedral is holding its annual Carol Concert, right in the heart of the historic city. This event is set to showcase the many reasons why the Military are so important, and just why they are held in such high regard to many people far and wide. The evening will comprise of many performances from various choirs and singers, including: Blake, Colin Thackery, Classical Reflection, The Help For Heroes (formerly Invictus Games) Choir, and The Band of the Rifles. Salisbury Cathedral's Carol Concert will be held on Friday 20th December. Prices from £22. wiltshirecreative.co.uk On Saturday 14th December, Marlborough College Chapel is hosting this year's Christmas Carol Concert for the Wiltshire-based charity, Hope and Homes for Children. Last year's event was a tremendous success and saw over 600 people celebrate and come together. Starting at 4pm, everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the Concert and of course help to raise funds for the charity.

Places To Go Things To Do

gentle and warm hearted story especially for children – Star in a Jar at The Lights, Andover is on Saturday, 25th January. thelights.org.uk

Paultons Piggies Brownsea Bird Boats

n 12th January 2020, animal lovers will jump at the chance to embrace this rare bird spectacle. The National Trust, The Dorset Wildlife Trust and the RSPB have come together to give families the chance to see a phenomenon within the bird world. You will gain exclusive access to Brownsea Island, and can either choose to explore alone or within a guided walk, which will then demonstrate the variety of other wildlife that call Brownsea Island their home. You can then enjoy a guided cruise around the harbour.

Tickets are priced at: £12.50 for children and £25 per adult. For more information please visit: nationaltrust.org.uk /brownsea-island

ake your children's dreams come true at Peppa Pig World this Christmas. The popular theme park is holding a multitude of events to entertain your family over the festive season. Your children can meet Santa and his animal friends in his Grotto. In addition to this, your little ones will also be able to feast their eyes on the spectactular Christmas illuminations, listen to the seasonal music and see the giant Christmas trees in all their glory. Peppa and George will also be available to meet, all wrapped up with their scarves and coats in the chilly Christmas-time weather. This event is on selected dates throughout December. paultonspark.co.uk/ christmas-tickets-prices

DECEMBER

WHAT'S ON EVENT GUIDE MONDAY

THURSDAY FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

3 Jane Austen's House Museum Chawton A Christmas Carol The Lights, Andover

4 Hinton Ampner presents Aesop's Fables (throughout Dec) Alresford Tchaikovsky Magic, The Lighthouse, Poole Christmas at Stourhead

5 Lady Sarah's Glamorous Christmas Ball until 1st Jan Petersfield Reindeer on the Roof The Lights, Andover

6 Santa Specials,

11 The Snowman Sir Harold Hillier Gardens until 5th Jan Fearless Youth Concert Hall, The Lighthouse, Poole

Christmas at Stourhead

10 An Enchanted Christmas with the Flower Fairies Mottisfont until 5th Jan Christmas with Tenors Un Limited Theatre Royal Winchester

12 Jack & the Beanstalk Meet the Cast Lighthouse, Poole Make Your Own Christmas Wreath Sir Harold Hillier Gardes, Romsey

16 Jack & the Beanstalk Meet the Cast, Lighthouse, Poole until 5th Jan

17 Scummy Mummies Christmas Show, Theatre Royal, Winchester

18 Diverse Abilities Christmas Carol Concert Wimborne Minster Cinderella at the Weymouth Pavilion

23 Ancient Midwinter Celebration The Holly King Butser Ancient Farm

24 Jane Austen's House Museum Chawton Christmas at Stourhead

25 CHRISTMAS DAY Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

30 Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink Skating in the Square, Dorchester Robin Hood, Salisbury Playhouse

31 Dick Whittington Theatre Royal, Winchester until 5th Jan Cathedrals, Caves & Cheddar Cheese, Cheddar Gorge

1 NEW YEARS DAY Poole's Annual Charity Bath Tub Race Cathedrals, Caves & Cheddar Cheese, Cheddar Gorge

2 Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland Cathedrals, Caves & Cheddar Cheese, Cheddar Gorge

3 Christmas at Kingston Lacy Wimborne Cinderella at the Weymouth Pavilion Robin Hood, Salisbury Playhouse

4 Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink Local Park Run Skating in the Square, Dorchester Newcomers Day Wincanton Racecourse

5 Whitehall's Ice Skating Spectacular, Lacock Yeovil Showground Car Boot Sale Cathedrals, Caves & Cheddar Cheese, Cheddar Gorge Robin Hood, Salisbury Playhouse

6 Curious About Salisbury, Heritage Walks

7 Jack Whitehall Stood Up live at the BIC

8 Jack Whitehall Stood Up live at the BIC

9 Rhyme Time, Shaftesbury Library

10 Long After The Battle, Tank Museum, Bere Regis

11 Local Park Run Library gets Lively and Lego Club, Shaftesbury Library

12 Brownsea Bird Boats Poole Quay Yeovil Showground Car Boot Sale

14 Curious About Salisbury, Heritage Walks Brownsea Bird Boats Poole Quay

15 Sleeping Beauty, Lighthouse Poole

16 Rhyme Time, Shaftesbury Library Sleeping Beauty, Lighthouse Poole

17 Curious About Salisbury, Heritage Walks

18 Milton Jones in Milton Impossible Forest Arts Centre, New Milton Local Park Run

19 Jack & The Beanstalk at the Regent Centre, Christchurch

20 Jack & The Beanstalk at the Regent Centre, Christchurch

21 Winter Works Open Day Crofton Beam Engines

22 Jack & The Beanstalk at the Regent Centre, Christchurch

23 Jack & The Beanstalk at the Regent Centre, Christchurch

24 Jack & The Beanstalk at the Regent Centre, Christchurch

25 Mini and Young Chef'sat Vaughan's Cookery Schoo, Devizes Local Park Run Meet the Railway Workers at STEAM

26 Under the Frozen Moon Forest Arts Centre, New Milton Yeovil Showground Car Boot Sale Brownsea Bird Boats Poole Quay

27 Long After The Battle, Tank Museum, Bere Regis

28 Curious About Salisbury, Heritage Walks

29 Spirit Of The Dance, Lightouse, Poole

30 Rhyme Time, Shaftesbury Library Leweston Open Doors Day

31 Long After The Battle, Tank Museum, Bere Regis

2 Westbury Christmas Tree Festival

9 The Railway Children The Brewhouse Theatre, Taunton Winter Wonderland Wookey Hole until 24th Dec

JANUARY

WEDNESDAY

1 Hyde Park Winter Wonderland London until 5th Jan

Winter Wonderland Wookey Hole until 24th Dec

Long After The Battle, Tank Museum, Bere Regis

TUESDAY

Winter Wonderland Wookey Hole, Can’t Wait For Christmas! Lighthouse, Poole until 24th Dec

7 Make your own Christmas Wreath Preston Candover Village Hall Tisbury Christmas Fayre Winter Wonderland

Wookey Hole until 24th Dec

Longleat Festival of Light Skating in the Square, Dorchester Christmas at Stourhead

8 Chawton House Christmas Fayre Chawton Christmas Food & Gift Fayre, The Lights, Andover Longleat Festival of Light Yeovil Showground Car Boot Sale Christmas at Stourhead

13 Lily and the Albatross, Theatre Royal Winchester Tales of Winter Magic Butser Ancient Farm Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain Concert Hall, The Lighthouse, Poole

14 Hope and Homes for Children Carol Concert Marlborough College Chapel Meet the Lace-makers from Alresford Lacemaking Society Alresford Whitchurch Silk Mill Family Craft Weekend Christmas Starts Here , The Lighthouse, Poole Cinderella at the Weymouth Pavilion Kilver Court Father Christmas

15 Rick Wakeman - The Grumpy Old Christmas Show, The Lighthouse, Poole Longleat Festival of Light Christmas Time at Brewery Square, Dorchester Skating in the Square, Dorchester The Harbourside Christmas Market: Bristol Waterfront Kilver Court Father Christmas

19 Christmas

20 Salisbury Carol Concert Salisbury Cathedral Rhyme Time, Shaftesbury Library

21 Ancient Midwinter Celebration The Holly King Butser Ancient Farm Cinderella at the Weymouth Pavilion Kilver Court Great House Christmas Party

22 Ancient Midwinter Celebration The Holly King Butser Ancient Farm Yeovil Showground Car Boot Sale Christmas at Stourhead

26 Christmas Leave on a WWII Railway The Watercress Line until 27th Dec

27 Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink Longleat Festival of Light Christmas at Stourhead

28 Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink Longleat Festival of Light Skating in the Square, Dorchester Library gets Lively and Lego Club, Shaftesbury Library

29 Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink Longleat Festival of Light Yeovil Showground Car Boot Sale Robin Hood, Salisbury Playhouse

Carol Service in Marlborough College Chapel

Watercress Line, Alresford 24th Dec

Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland Rhyme Time, Shaftesbury Library

Post your event for FREE online at countrychild.co.uk

CALENDAR WINTER 19/20 TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

1 Stargazing Durlston Country Park Library gets Lively and Lego Club, Shaftesbury Library

2 Yeovil Showground Car Boot Sale English National Badminton Championships 2020 Winchester

7 Curious About Salisbury, Heritage Walks The Classic Rock Show, City Hall, Salisbury

8 Local Park Run Library gets Lively and Lego Club, Shaftesbury Library Meet the Railway Workers at STEAM

9 Yeovil Showground Car Boot Sale Barbury International Point-to-Point Races

14 Whitchurch Silk Mill Craft Weekend

15 Dorset Museum Inflatable Tour Local Park Run Library gets Lively and Lego Club, Shaftesbury Library

16 Yeovil Showground Car Boot Sale

23 Yeovil Showground Car Boot Sale Light Up Poole The Tiger Who Came To Tea at NST City

3 Long After The Battle, Tank Museum, Bere Regis

4 Dr Faustus Forest Arts Centre, New Milton

10 Cathedrals, Caves & Cheddar Cheese, Cheddar Gorge

11 Long After The 12 The New Forest 13 Psychic Sally: Battle, Tank Museum, Knowledge at Eling 10 Years and Bere Regis Tide Mill Experience Counting Lighthouse, Poole

17 Curious About Salisbury, Heritage Walks Cathedrals, Caves & Cheddar Cheese, Cheddar Gorge

18 Winter Works Open Day Crofton Beam Engines The Tiger Who Came To Tea at NST City

19 Disney's My Son Pinocchio Geppetto's Tale, Kingswood Theatre, Bath The Tiger Who Came To Tea at NST City

20 Roald Dahl and the Imagination Seekers Forest Arts Centre, New Milton The Tiger Who Came To Tea at NST City

21 Light Up Poole Half tern at The Tank Museum, Bere Regis The Tiger Who Came To Tea at NST City

22 Local Park Run Disney's My Son Pinocchio - Geppetto's Tale, Kingswood Theatre, Bath Light Up Poole Meet the Railway Workers at STEAM

24 Long After The Battle, Tank Museum, Bere Regis

25 Curious About Salisbury, Heritage Walks

26 Cathedrals, Caves & Cheddar Cheese, Cheddar Gorge Peppa Pig's Best Day Ever, Kings Theatre, Portsmouth

27 Curious About Salisbury, Heritage Walks Rhyme Time, Shaftesbury Library Peppa Pig's Best Day Ever, Kings Theatre, Portsmouth

28 Cathedrals, Caves & Cheddar Cheese, Cheddar Gorge

29 Local Park Run Library gets Lively and Lego Club, Shaftesbury Library Stargazing Durlston Country Park Mini and Young Chef'sat Vaughan's Cookery Schoo, Devizes

5 Curious About Salisbury, Salisbury City

6 Rhyme Time, Shaftesbury Library

FEBRUARY

MONDAY

THE LIGHTS For All Your Festive Family Fun

Reindeer on the Roof

Hodgepodge Theatre Thursday, 5 December at 10.30am and 1.30pm Friday, 6 December at 1.30pm

Snow White

Vienna Festival Ballet Saturday, 14 December at 2pm and 7pm

Book Online: www.thelights.org.uk Box Office: 01264 368368

Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas Countdown

For ages 3+ with a meet and greet with Father Christmas afterwards! Saturday, 21 December at 10.30am, 1.30pm and 4.30pm

The Adventures of Pinocchio

Oddsocks Wednesday, 8 January at 7.30pm

Seasonal Spirit

Miranda and her family embrace the elements and get out and about this winter. Here are her Top Three Wintery Activities to set your seasonal spirit alight!

he arrival of autumn is one of my favourite times of year; crisp mornings, an explosion of colour and the welcome warmth of log fires. However, I have to say, the advent of winter fills me with a great deal less excitement. We’ve said farewell to the cacophony of colour and instead are greeted with shorter days, colder skies and a yearning for the arrival of spring. Getting outside with the kids becomes more arduous; hats, gloves, scarves and wellies are very much compulsory accessories. But, this year, I’ve decided to work on my ‘winter apathy’ and embrace the chilly season. Along with my family, I’ve hunted out a variety of winter activities, suitable for all of the family, that will entice even the hardiest of hibernators out from under the duvet!

Not only are the Cotwolds an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, they are also teeming with family-friendly places to visit. If you feel like a weekend escape with plenty to please then heading ‘up country’ to the Cotswolds is really worth considering! Animal lovers will delight in the farm parks on offer; Adam Henson’s Farm Park enables children to get up close to the many animals on site and learn about farming, past and present. If it’s super chilly, the indoor barns make for a welcome retreat! (cotswoldfarmpark. co.uk) Another animal lovers’ paradise has to be the renowned Cotswold Wildlife Park cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk where 260 different animal species roam the 160 acres of parkland and stunning gardens – a real feast for the eyes. Lemurs, lions and Rhinos are just a few of the exciting animals you’ll encounter during your visit. Another family favourite has to be the model village in Bourton on the Water; this Grade ll listed 1/9th scale replica of the village itself is perfect place for little people… and it’s open whatever the weather, themodelvillage. co.uk. For our Cotswold escape, we based ourselves at the De Vere Cotswold Water Park Hotel. Our dog-friendly two-bedroom apartment was the perfect base for the five of us; we enjoyed wildlife walks around the lake, a family dinner on site and the kids were in heaven in the hotel pool after a busy day of exploring. Close to the market town of Cirencester, this hotel felt like the perfect base for exploring this special part of the country. (devere.co.uk)

It’s as simple as it sounds. A family walk on a winter’s day can be such a lovely activity. Here are a few tips and suggestions to make it more fun and less faff! • Plan your walk. Consider purchasing an OS map of your local area. You’ll quickly be able to see the byways and footpaths that will show you areas you’ve never previously set foot. ordnancesurvey.co.uk. • Make the length of the walk realistic, put some snacks and drinks in your bag to encourage tired legs to go the extra metre or so… • Get the right clothing. It really doesn’t have to cost the earth but making sure you and your kids are warm and waterproof is the difference between fun and failure. Decathlon decathlon.co.uk is a great place to kit out the whole family – with lots of choice, there’s something to suit all pockets. • Consider a half-way stop. A pub lunch, even if it’s a drink and a bowl of chips, is always a welcome idea, especially when the weather turns and little fingers and toes could benefit from an hour warming up indoors. • Geo Caching is a fun way to keep children entertained whilst out on walk; with the help of the geo caching app, you can plan a really fun few hours outside. Have a look on the geo caching website to learn more about this inclusive activity geocaching.com

When we hear the word ‘beach’ images of ice creams, sunscreen and sandcastles spring to mind. But the beach has so much more to offer, and in the winter months it’s a great place to escape to. Living in the south of the country, we’re all spoilt for choice when it comes to scouting out a beach to visit. With that in mind, we stuck a pin in the map and headed to Devon and the stunning Woolacombe Bay for a weekend of outdoors activities. Our base was the Woolacombe Bay Hotel woolacombe-bay-hotel.co.uk and, as it turned out, this was the perfect place to stay for a wintery family weekend. For parents with young families, the Woolacombe Bay has everything you could need; large bedrooms and suites, a family-friendly brasserie serving delicious food, an indoor pool, dog-friendly accommodation and the beach is just a minute’s walk away. Wanting to make the most of our surroundings we were down on the beach before breakfast each morning; running around and working up an appetite, the children each collected rubbish they found on the beach, a great ‘feel good’ activity to do! The weather was on our side so the body boards, cricket bats, balls and wetsuits that we’d packed were all used! Families with dogs will find beaches during the winter season so accommodating – everywhere we looked, four legged friends were enjoying the freedom of the seaside. There’s something very special about a seaside sunset, so with our youngest in the back carrier we headed out to enjoy the splendour of the natural world. Regardless of the weather, I genuinely think the beach is a winner all year round!

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STUNNING FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY

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The Great Outdoors Jeni Bell, a nature writer, blogger and photographer explains the natural wonder of the Starling murmuration Murmuration Photography: Kirstine Davidson

inter sunsets are spectacular, and it’s often a joy to wrap up warm and head outdoors to watch the sky change from red to peach to purple and then back again, but it’s not just the kaleidoscope of colours that put on a show in the winter skies. Thanks to one small bird, or even a few thousand of them, a touch of magic is added to our evenings with a shimmering aerial display. Starling murmurations are truly a sight to behold; thousands of birds swarming together just before dusk creating one huge flock. They swoop and swirl through the darkening sky, whilst twisting and turning into hypnotic patterns, shapeshifting into different forms in an astonishing aerial extravaganza, before disappearing into their night-time roosts. It’s thought they gather in these huge groups to boost their body temperatures in the colder months, as well as giving the birds chance to chatter and exchange information about choice feeding sites. There’s also safety in numbers and predators will find it much harder to single out one bird in a large group. Beginning around October and finishing in March, the best time for watching these breath-taking displays for yourself is during December and January when the numbers of birds are at their peak. The spectacular displays are made up of UK starlings, and those that have travelled from Europe to escape the harsher weather. Some murmurations consist of hundreds of thousands of birds, whereas some only have a few hundred, but either are a pleasure to watch. What makes a murmuration even more impressive is that these little starlings, in their huge groups, can reach remarkable speeds of up

WIN

to 20mph, and with thanks to their super-fast reflexes they can do this without crashing into one another. As one bird turns, those flying closest to it will also change direction creating the mesmerising ripple effect that these murmurations are well known for. The Ham Hill reserve in Somerset is known for its large numbers of starlings displaying across the Avalon marshes. In Hampshire at the Wildlife Trust’s Fishlake Meadows near Romsey, there is a smaller but equally impressive flock present. Whilst in Dorset, Studland beach makes a fantastic viewing spot for the thousands of birds that swarm the coastal skies before hurtling into the reedbeds below. With various locations for these evening aerial shows, there’s no excuse not to wrap up and find your own winter show. For the best views of nature’s winter spectacle, you’ll want to get in position about an hour before sunset on a clear evening and watch the skies for small clusters of birds forming. If you are heading out to witness your own murmuration, and let’s face it why wouldn’t you, be respectful to others, these spots can get very busy so park courteously and leave space for locals. Surely there can’t be a more exciting way to spend a chilly evening then by heading out to marvel at a magical murmuration against the fiery winter sky?

Jeni is a nature writer inspired by British wildlife. Through her writing she hopes to inspire others to seek out their own wild sights. seekingwildsights.co.uk

e are giving 5 lucky Country Child readers the chance to win a copy of The Lost Book of Adventure. Described as 'A gripping and factpacked adventure book that is perfect to share with the family. A cool mix of Indiana Jones, Bear Grylls and David Attenborough!' We feel this book is a perfect fit for our readers.

Simply text COUNTRYADVENTURE to 60777 by the 1st February 2020 to be in the draw! Editor’s decision is final. Competition not open to Country Child employees.

Photo Credit: mamasandpapas.com

Winter Woolies

The Country Child seasonal picks for keeping your family warm this winter.

 Unicorn Kids Jumper £24 sophieallport.com  Navy Blue Hat & Mitten Set, Paul Smith Junior £74 childrensalon.com  Navy Wool Hat by As We Grow £41.60 aswegrow.is  J umper with rudolph pattern £22 newbiestore.com  Kids Rainbow Sweatshirt Navy £26 thekindnessco-op.com

 Jacquard knit cardigan £46 tocotovintage.com  We Are Knitters Petite Romy Cardigan Knitting Kit £59 weareknitters.co.uk  Santa Hat & Mitts £16 mamasandpapas.com  Arrie Striped Teddy Fleece £30 weirdfish.co.uk  Adult Aysha Plain Cable Knit Beanie Dewberry £12 weirdfish.co.uk  Girls Red Faux Fur Ear Muffs, Hucklebones London £59 childrensalon.com

 Mamas and Papas Knit Dress £25 mamasandpapas.com

Y T I L QUA

? E T I BS

A R O F G N I K LOO

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Working in partnership with

SATs Stress

As a parent on the playground, it is likely you will have heard a lot of talk about SATs, but do you know what they actually involve? Are you expected to prepare your child and do teachers think they are a good idea? Primary school teacher Aimee Strongman helps to shed some light.

hat are SATs?

Standardised Assessment Tests (SATs) are national tests that pupils will take twice during their time in Primary school; firstly, at the end of Key Stage 1 (KS1) in Year 2, and then secondly, at the end of Key Stage 2 (KS2) in Year 6. Pupils are tested in Maths (Arithmetic and reasoning), English (Reading and spelling, punctuation and grammar) and sometimes Science. SATs are a set of assessments aimed to assess the capabilities of primary school pupils. They are used as an indicator of the progress your child has made at school so far and should not be viewed as a measure of whether your child is passing or failing; they simply show what level your child is currently working to. However, there is still a lot of debate about whether SATs are the best method for assessing learning.

What do SAT's aim to achieve?

SATs are aimed to act as a tool demonstrating the progress of children nationwide, but some say they are a narrowminded view of the whole child's holistic development within schools. According to the Guardian Newspaper (July 2019) "A resounding 97% of primary school teachers would like to see high-stakes SATs tests scrapped, according to the largest poll undertaken on the subject. More than 54,000 primary members of the National Education Union (NEU) took part in an indicative ballot last month. The vast majority said they supported their leaders’ campaign for “a sensible alternative” to the national standard attainment tests, which are “damaging children and narrowing the curriculum." It is well documented that there has been an increase in mental health issues amongst children in the UK. Two in five teachers know of primary school children showing signs of mental health issues including anxiety, panic attacks and depression. A teacher from Dorset feels that SATs puts an unnecessary pressure on children who are trying to understand the world, "unfortunately despite all teachers best intentions these assessments cause anxiety - not for the able child but for the child who, for whatever reason, struggles academically. Schools are forced to think of their pupils as numbers and not focus on who their children are, as mini people, but instead as numbers."

Photography: Millie Pilkington

Of course, there are valid reasons for SATs assessments. They allow the Government to collect national data from across the country and they also provide a necessary benchmark of attainment across all schools in the country which go on to support data in other areas, which in turn can be used to compare findings with other countries. Additionally, SATs provide a uniformity of teaching, allowing schools to work towards the same learning goals. However, there are opposing arguments as some think that many children, certainly at KS1 level, are not developmentally ready to access a test of that nature. Some children are not in a position to demonstrate their understanding in a test format and can find the situation very stressful. It could also be said that the process of teaching towards taking the SATs stifles, not just the children's creativity, but also the teachers. It was confirmed in September 2017 that the KS1 and KS2 SATs will be made non-statutory (so schools will be able to choose whether to administer them or not) from 2023 but for the moment the tests remain so here is some advice on how you can help your children get through these assessments.  Try to keep everything else running normally. Whether it's sport, music lessons, Beavers or Brownies, sticking to your normal routine when it comes to after school activities demonstrates to your child that SATs are not of ultimate importance. Normal life can still happen.  Keep children fuelled with healthy food and drinks and ensure they have a proper break before homework begins.  Be positive and praise them for trying and working hard as opposed to majoring on the scores they've achieved in practice papers.  Take the time to talk to your child and check in with how they feeling.  Get outside and breathe in some fresh air.  Keep it in perspective. The SATs are primary-school tests to gauge the education in the school and do not affect the secondary school your child will go to. Useful Websites

/blog.oxfordowl.co.uk/how-to-support-your-child-through-ks2-sats/ schoolguide.co.uk/blog/school-guides-top-5-tips-for-stress-free-year-2sats-practical-ways-to-support-your-child-through-their-first-set-of-tests exampapersplus.co.uk/sats-preparation-support-child/

BOOKWORMS

udwell Primary School in Shaftesbury is a place where children are happy and encouraged to enjoy their childhood. They enjoy inspiring and exciting teaching and are encouraged to develop confidence, curiosity and a sense of adventure. Specialist music, sports, forest school and dance teachers help to deliver a broad and balanced curriculum alongside a wide variety of extra curricular activities. Come and visit us to see what makes Ludwell such a special place, to meet our delightful children and staff and to hear all about our outstanding 2019 results.

 01747 828519 admin@ludwell.wilts.sch.uk ludwell.wilts.sch.uk

Mr Pusskins- Best In Show by Sam Lloyd Mr Pusskins goes to a pet show with his owner, Emily. He is grumpy about going until he sees the very shiny trophy and then he wants to win. Madame Fifi is a naughty poodle and she tries to trick Mr Pusskins. I won’t spoil the ending but you will find this book very funny! I love it! Alexa Tobin, Reception Born In The Wild- Baby Mammals & Their Parents by Lita Judge If you want to find out all about baby mammals then this book tells you lots of facts. We have been learning about mammals in school and I like looking at the pictures. Mrs Sutton- our teacher- reads us this book and we all think it is very cute. The pictures are drawn very well and it helps me to know why is it important to look after all the wildlife in the world. Jacob Hatch, Year 1 Last Stop On Market Street by Matt de la Pena Every Sunday after church, CJ and

Ludwell Primary School, Shaftesbury, Dorset

his grandma get on the bus and go all across town until they get to the last stop. One day, CJ wonders why they don't own a car like his friend Colby. Why doesn’t he have an iPod like the boys on the bus? Why do they always have to get off in the dirty part of town? Grandma answers each question kindly and helps CJ to see the beauty—and fun—in their routine and the world around them. Lilly Long, Year 2 My Naughty Little Sister Cuts Out by Dorothy Edwards I love My Naughty Little Sister stories and I think you will too. Mrs White- our Headteacher- reads them to us and, at first, I was quite shocked at how naughty one child could be! In this story, some beautiful fabric arrives in the post but the naughty girl finds it and does something she definitely shouldn’t be doing. Will she be found out? What will her mummy say? You must read this. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Cassandra Longfoot Year 3 Magic On The Map- Let’s Mooove! by Courtney Schienmel & Bianca Turetsky Twins, Finn and Molly Parker think they must be dreaming when they discover a camper in their drivewayespecially when they realise it talks! When the camper transports them to a cattle ranch in Colorado, the twins know something magical has happened. Then the camper disappears, leaving Finn and Molly to wonder: how are we going to get home? A great read- highly recommended! Gilbert Brown Year 3 The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind by Brian Mealer & William Kamkwamba When a terrible drought strikes William’s village in Malawi, his family lose all of the season's crops, leaving them with nothing to eat and nothing to sell. To try and help, William begins to explore science

books in his village library, looking for a solution. He comes up with the idea that changes his family's life forever: he could build a windmill to generate electricity to pump the water they need to farm the land. He faces many obstacles but shows great determination and keeps going. I think this is a very uplifting story and shows young people that, even if you are small, if you put your mind to something, you can achieve great things. Alex Smith- DowseYear 4 Headstrong. 52 Women Who Changed Science-and the World by Rachel Swaby This book introduces us to a wide range of amazing women including Nobel Prize winners, pioneers and innovators. It also includes lesser- known (but hugely significant) scientists who influence our every day lives. This book explains how each one’s ideas developed, from their first moment of scientific engagement through to the research and the discovery for which they’re best known. This book will inspire a new generation of female scientists and is a fascinating and eye- opening read. Trixie Sutton Year 5 The Girl Of Ink And Stars by Kiran Millwood Hargrave Before the brutal Governor arrived to Joya, bringing with them the ravens who drove out the native birds, it was a place where songbirds sang in every tree and the islanders were free to come and go as they pleased. Now there are no songbirds, and the people are forbidden to travel beyond the forest that separates them from the rest of island. When a series of mysterious events shakes the community, it’s Isabella—daughter to the island’s only mapmaker— who will lead a party of explorers into the forest in search of answers. As the group ventures deeper and deeper into the island, dark secrets begin to surface, and the legends Isabella has listened to all these

years show signs of coming to life. Darcie Score Year 5 Sputnik’s Guide to Life on Earth by Frank Cottrell Boyce If you are a Year 6 child, you will laugh out loud at this book. An alien disguised as a dog of indeterminate breed - creates havoc in the life of Prez, a very determined Scottish child who is in foster care. As Prez tries to find his grandfather, he also has to write a list of things that could win Earth a reprieve. This fabulous book is a talking prompt for what is really important in life but is also really, really funny. Thomas Gulliver Year 6

Be A Bookworm This page provides an opportunity for local schools to promote themselves through their pupils' book reviews. If you would like us to feature your school, please email info@countrychild.co.uk for further details.

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Digital Delegates

Risk Takers

ocal children were encouraged to take a step out of their comfort zone at a fun filled afternoon of risk taking activities at Salisbury Cathedral School recently. Over 100 local families were welcomed to their ‘Dangerous Things (you should let your child do!)’ event. The children were able to roam freely in the school's 27 acres in

Village, primary, pre prep, private or state we want to know your school news, email: info@countrychild.co.uk

troud School in Romsey hosted a Digital Leaders’ Conference for more than 100 primary school children from across Hampshire and Wiltshire. The Digital Leaders Conference follows an incredibly successful event held in London in 2012, at Stroud’s senior school King Edwards VI in 2014 and 2015, and more recently at Stroud School over the past three years. Mrs Price, Assistant Head - Operations, and Head of Digital says: “This was a very successful day. Not only did it allow the children to experience a range of new technology in a fun and engaging way, it also enhanced their team working and problem solving abilities. Hopefully inspiring a new generation toward a digital future.” Days such as the Digital Leaders’ Conference are part of the School’s commitment to equip pupils with the ability to be self-reflective, independent and confident.

the heart of Salisbury Cathedral Close and participate in the planned and spontaneous activities. The children aged 4-8 years old took part in a wide range of activities including mud pie making, deconstructing electrical appliances, slack-line walking, den building, building campfires, whittling and chemical reactions. The event was inspired by the popular book ‘50 Dangerous Things’ written by Gever Tulley local.

MEET THE HEAD Mr Alex McCullough Perrott Hill, Crewkerne, Somerset How long have you been at the school?

I have been Headmaster at Perrott Hill since September 2018; for the previous nine years I was Headmaster at Polwhele House in Cornwall.

What is the ethos of your school?

True to the school’s motto, we ensure that our children are given the time and space for a full education. This means nurturing, challenging and guiding them and, crucially, making sure they have the freedom to think for themselves. This allows the whole person to develop not just academically, but physically and emotionally as well. Through this approach, we are able to produce consistently impressive academic results and an enviable scholarship record – 24 scholarships and awards this year out of a year group of 26!

How do you help ensure that every child meets their full potential?

We encourage all our children to take full advantage of all the school has to offer as it truly is an inspirational place in which energy and enthusiasm are abundant – in the classroom, on the games fields, in music, art, drama and every other aspect of our rich and diverse school life. All this activity creates a very strong sense of belonging and fellowship among the pupils, and a deep-seated respect for themselves and everything around them.

What do you find most rewarding about teaching?

I entered the profession to make a positive difference to the lives of others. As a Head, taking strategic decisions which impact positively on others is incredibly satisfying. A highlight for me is seeing children’s faces light up when they receive an award or recognition for their effort and/ or attainment. At Perrott Hill we have a range of awards for academic, sporting, musical, artistic and dramatic achievements – but also for manners, kindness, friendship, perseverance and what we call ‘light bulb moments’. It’s a pleasure to hand these out. I would go as far as saying being a Head is the best job in the world!

What are your own hobbies and interests?

In no particular order: sport, music, cooking, theatre trips, dining out, fell walking (preferably in the Lake District), travel and spending time with family and friends.

What does the future hold for you and your school?

For a prep school of our size we are incredibly well resourced and therefore we are focused on being the very best we can be and making every day count. It seems to be working: we have just been awarded Pre-Prep of the Year at the Independent Schools of the Year Awards, following our shortlisting for Prep of the Year last year – and we were the only prep school in the country to be shortlisted for the Boarding Innovation Award at the prestigious BSA Awards this year too. Here’s to more of the same in 2020…

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Calling All Parents “

When should we give our offspring a mobile phone? Country Child investigates…

When are you going to give your son/daughter a mobile phone?” is often a hot topic of conversation amongst parents. Is there even a ‘right’ time? After all, there isn’t a law that states when a child can own a mobile phone - perhaps it would make the decision so much easier for us parents if there were! But, like it or not, the reality in this era of modern tech is that most (if not all) children would like to own their own phone, and it’s our job as parents to figure out what is right for our offspring. Of course, when our children ask for a phone, they aren’t referring to the simple mobiles of yesteryear, where making calls and latterly being able to text a friend were the limits of its capability. No, our kids are talking about the Smart Phone; a mini computer in the palm of their hands, where access to the internet is available with the swipe of a finger. The internet; a wonderful, incredible resource for people the world over. Tasks that used to be time consuming can now take minutes if not seconds to complete. Gone are the days when research could only be done in the library, or holidays only booked in a travel agency, the internet has opened our minds and our eyes to so much. But, that’s only half of the story. As we’re all too aware, there’s a side to the internet that is a deeply disturbing and frightening place and, as parents, we want nothing more than to protect our children from the destructive side of the ‘dark web’. Too often, we read that a child has fallen victim to an online hoax or been recruited via online apps and chat rooms to a gang, cult or sect. Making sure our own children remain safe as they navigate their way online is high on the list of priorities for both schools and parents alike. Parents contemplating purchasing a phone for their child can ask themselves two key questions: Q: Is there a need for my child to have a phone; from either a safety or social perspective? Many children start to make their own way to school when they begin their secondary education, and being able to contact your child, and likewise for them to contact you, is naturally important. Equally so, is it becoming apparent that the majority of their friends own a mobile phone? Q: Is my child mature enough to have a mobile phone? Age is not as important as maturity, and deciding if your child is adult enough to be trusted with a mobile is something only you as the parent will know. Would your child understand the potential grenade they have in their possession when it comes to posting material regarding themselves or others? And can they be trusted to keep within their minute/data allowance each month?

Parents who do buy their offspring a smart phone are encouraged to lay down some key ground rules from the offset. Agreeing on the amount of daily screen time usage is advised, as is banning screen time at the dinner table and after a certain time in the evening. Suggesting that all of the family mobile phones are left downstairs overnight is another discussion you as a family could have. Keep the lines of communication open: Talk about the harsh reality of cyber bullying and inappropriate online content; encourage them to talk to you if they are worried or unsure. And consider keeping the App Store password a secret initially and decide together what apps your child can have on their phone. Of course, monitor your child’s behaviour and look for any subtle character changes. Are they spending more time on their phone and less time with friends/family? Do they appear more anxious or less keen to participate in extra-curricular activities? The Bristol based charity papayaparents.com has some excellent advice for parents who may be struggling. Ultimately, we want our children to enjoy the freedom a smart phone offers them; the ability to explore, learn, experience and communicate – and if we can help them to succeed in this, then our job is done.

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GLORIOUS Food Winter Warmers Food

atering for family and friends at Christmas time can often be a rather daunting experience, especially for those of us who aren’t natural Kitchen Kings or Queens. Having a fail-safe recommendation can often help take the heat out of a potentially stressful few hours of scouring recipe books and the internet. Below are two from 250 sumptuous and colourful recipes taken from Sarah Raven’s 'Good Good Food' cookbook (£26 available from sarahraven.com), which she recommends you consider concocting during the festive season…and they do sound pretty amazing! Bon Appetit!

Creamy Celeriac Soup with Chestnuts

This soup is very rich and creamy, yet it contains no cream, with almond milk used instead. If the celeriac is organic, remove the minimal amount of peel as the nutrients lie just beneath the skin. Top this soup with chestnuts, which are low in fat and calories compared to all other nuts, but still packed with protein and they are filling too. Found on page 91 for 2-3 as a main course, 4 as a starter, 10 as a canapé.

Ingredients  2 tablespoons cold-pressed rapeseed oil or 1 teaspoon set coconut oil  1 celeriac (about 1.2kg), diced into 2cm cubes  2 shallots, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, crushed  Sprig of rosemary, leaves finely chopped

 700ml good-quality chicken stock 500ml almond milk Juice of ½ lemon Sea salt and black pepper To serve: Finely chopped rosemary or parsley and 100g vacuum-packed chestnuts, sliced and black pepper.

Heat the oil in a heavy-based saucepan. Add the celeriac and cook on a medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the shallots and cook for a further 5 minutes until both have softened but have not coloured. Stir in the garlic and rosemary. Cook for 2 minutes, then add the stock and simmer for 20 minutes. Pour in the almond milk and bring the soup back to a simmer. Blend the soup in a food processor until really smooth. Pour back into a clean pan and reheat gently. Squeeze in the lemon

Photography: Jonathan Buckley

juice and add plenty of black pepper and some salt if necessary. Sprinkle over the rosemary or parsley, the chestnuts and a grind of black pepper. This soup is filling, so serve in small bowls, or shot glasses as a canapé at a party.

Carrot and Sprouted Alfalfa/Broccoli Salad Sarah makes this salad at the cookery school for lunch all the time: simple grated carrot and poppy seeds, with bouncy alfalfa and broccoli sprouts threaded through. It’s also good to add the colour of red amaranth sprouts. Found on page 130 for 10 people as a side salad:

Ingredients  1kg carrots, coarsely grated (only peel if not organic)  100g sunflower seeds (or a mix of sunflower and pumpkin), dry-fried  1 tbsp poppy seeds, dryfried  100g alfalfa sprouts, broccoli sprouts, pea shoots or red amaranth for a great colour (or a mixture)  60 g coriander, stems and leaves, chopped (or flat-leaf parsley or mint)

For the dressing: Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon, 3tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1tbsp flaxseed oil, sea salt and black pepper

Photography: Jonathan Buckley

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How many recipes are included in The Silver Spoon for Children cookbook? Simply text your answers to COUNTRYSPOON to 60777 Closing date 1st January 2020. Editor’s decision is final. Competition not open to Country Child employees.

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With our proven track record for our print platform, we step further into the digital arena with a new website to provide more ways to connect to our Country Child audience. Please get in touch to find out more on the exciting new online editorial, brand and promotional opportunities.

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WINDOW SHOPPING Country Child scour the counties for Period Properties with Promise.

Sturminster Newton, Dorset £475,000

West Lavington, Wiltshire £500,000

Dating from the 16th century, this unlisted thatched cottage has been renovated, including the re-thatch. All the principal rooms overlook the village cricket green through picket fencing to afford an uninterrupted view of play. So sit back and watch from the sitting room as the wood burning stove blazes. To one side of the cottage is the single garage plus brick-paved parking area, with space for cars. knightfrank.co.uk

A detached cottage that was of great importance to the village in the past having been the former post office/store and old butcher's shop. Extended in 2004 and much improved by the current owners this is now a beautifully presented and versatile home that could even be split to incorporate an annexe if one wished, plus driveway parking for 4 vehicles, a garage and two useful brick built garden stores. strakers.co.uk

South Petherton, Somerset £500,000

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A wonderful home fit for a busy modern family without losing its cottage appeal. Located in a rural yet accessible position, the property enjoys flexible accommodation including four bedrooms, two bathrooms, two reception rooms and a wonderful kitchen/family room. Double garage with media room above.

Another attractive three bedroom thatched period property overlooking the village pond. Situated within the Cranborne Chase the property has been successfully extended and there is scope to extend futher, subject to the necessary consents. The cottage sits within a lovely garden and benefits from a detached garage.

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A gold award was awarded to John Baker, volunteer Festival Director of The Sherborne Abbey Festival for his Outstanding Contribution to Tourism in Dorset and the Dorset Tourism Awards 2019 and a Silver award went to The Eastbury Hotel for Best Small Hotel and also a Bronze award in the restaurant category. A private breastfeeding room has been created at a popular Eco Hub at the family-friendly shopping arena - Dolphin Shopping Centre, in Poole. Kuti’s Brasserie in Southampton Named Restaurant Personality of the Year at the Asian Restaurant & Takeaway Awards 2019. Parkour fans excited for new sports facility in Churchill Gardens, Salisbury

All Year Play

University MONEY MATTERS Accommodation

ith accommodation being a significant part of the costs of going to university, some parents consider purchasing a place for their child to live which can then either be kept as a rental property or sold afterwards Assuming parents already own at least one other property, purchasing a property in their names for their child to live in will trigger a 3% Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) charge in addition to the normal liability, which on a £150,000 property would increase the SDLT payable from £500 to £5,000. Also, if the property is sold once the child completes their university course, any capital gain above the annual exemption will be subject to capital gains tax of up to 28%. An alternative is for parents to provide support to allow the child to purchase the property in their own name. As long as the child has never owned another property, they would be eligible for first time buyer relief which could completely remove the SDLT charge on a property worth up to £300,000. In addition, as long as the child uses the property as their main residence, they could sell the property with some or all of the capital gain being exempt from tax depending on how long they own and live in the property. A cash gift from the parents to the child would be a potentially exempt transfer and so may be subject to Inheritance Tax if one or both parents died within 7 years. A more affordable option could be for the parents to provide a deposit to enable the child to take out a mortgage, and act as guarantor for the repayments. Some specialist mortgages would allow the child to rent rooms to other students, enabling them to receive an income to utilise their tax-free allowances and cover costs. This is only general advice and should not be relied upon; for specific advice tailored to your personal circumstances please contact: Lee Keeling at Andrews and Palmer, The Square, Gillingham, SP8 4AR Tel: 01747 823147 andpal.co.uk Lee@andpal.co.uk

C H A R T E R E D A C C O U N TA N T S

he traditional pub in the heart of Somerset. The Bull Inn is the perfect family destination for seasonal food, drinks, beer garden and the latest addition, their exciting new play area! It was a huge hit over summer and now you your family can still enjoy and relax with a drink whilst the kids jump and play all year round. thebullinn-bruton.com

ate Lovell, a single mother from Somerset, has launched a range of baby and toddler safety reins in fashionforward designs that include leopard print, camouflage, and pirates. Unveiled under the brand name of ONK, the reins are set to become firm favourites of stylesavvy parents and carers who like clothing with character "The reins are really easy to use: they’re reversible in that you can choose whether to have the buckle at the front or back, and they have all passed their BSEN Safety Standard tests." “It took a while to get right, but I am so chuffed with the results. I am launching ONK with some of my favourite designs, but I’ve got a new collection up my sleeve already!” Way to go Kate! onk-uk.com

ongratulations to the winners and finalists of the 13th Annual Hampshire Countryside Awards, announced at a special ceremony attended by over 100 guests at the Littleton Millennium Memorial Hall in Winchester. A selection of groups and projects who are working towards a flourishing countryside, were selected by the Countryside Awards judges following a set of visits held. The finalists were invited to attend the ceremony in order to

'Rein'ed In

showcase their work and build links with other projects within Hampshire. All 15 finalists were presented with a certificate by Nigel Atkinson Esq, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire who closed the Ceremony with the presentation of commemorative plaques to the five well-deserved winners.

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Where boys thrive

We believe the period from 4 - 13 years are the most critical in any boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. We invite you to come and see for yourself what a difference a Horris Hill education could make for your son.

To arrange a visit on a day to suit you, please email: registrar@horrishill.com Horris Hill Preparatory School for Boys, Newtown, Newbury RG20

www.horrishill.com

All aboard with Smart Tech... ...our latest addition to the BRIO World system that puts your child in control of an endless combination of play possibilities. Whereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the next stop? Discover the 33834 Smart Tech Engine with Action Tunnels and other Smart Tech products at www.brio.uk