Families Cambridgeshire September October half term and education issue

F R TAKE EE ME H OME

Whole School Open Event Saturday 2 October 2021 9.30am - 12.30pm

Issue 66 September/October 2021

familiesonline.co.uk

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Contents & Competition

Dear Reader,

What's in this issue?

As we start another school year, I miss that familiar first walk back in September (as my boys are now too old to have me accompanying them!), and that nostalgic smell of damp grass that took me back to my childhood and my boys first days at school. For many of us, the return to school after a long Summer juggling work and childcare (after an already testing year of homeschooling) will come as a guilty relief. As the conkers ripen on the trees (one of the first hints of Autumn), thoughts of long Summer days turn to cosy nights in and comforting food. Why not make the most of those endof-Summer days with our selection of things to do in the ‘Enjoy th regular ‘What’s On’ guide on pages 8 &9. e

FRE E

TAK E ME

HOME

Whole School Open Event Saturday 2 October 2021 9.30am - 12.30pm

Issue 66 September/

October 2021

familiesonline.co.uk

4. News & Views 6. BeSafe

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7. Baby News 8. What's On 11. School spotlight 13. Dealing with back to School Anxiety 15. Clubs & Classes

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Families Cambridgeshire is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Cambridgeshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Cambridgeshire. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Cambridgeshire its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336, editor@familiesCambridgeshire.co.uk ASSISTANT EDITOR: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk SOCIAL MEDIA: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk SALES: Jean Stevens, jean@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk DESIGN: Caroline Thompson-Heap, info@cheekymonkeydesigns.net

A FAMILY TICKET TO SEE BEAUTY AND THE BEAST PANTOMIME AT KING’S LYNN CORN EXCHANGE (Any performance from 27th – 31st December) A baddie wanting boos, goodies with some gags, a heroine in hot water... but what has happened to the Handsome Prince? Join KL Corn Exchange for a spectacular adventure as Dame Dotty and son, Potty Pierre, cause chaos at the chateau in true panto style.

To enter,simply visit our Facebook page @FamCambsMag and like & share our Pantomime competition post.

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Families Cambridgeshire 3

News & Views

Join Perform for confidence building fun this Autumn term

Perform weekly classes are packed with drama, dance and singing but have a special focus on developing confidence, communication, coordination and concentration. They don’t worry about whether children get their lines or moves right, instead, they use a mix of drama games and fun activities which boost self-esteem and allow every child to shine. Their magical end of term shows for friends and family are a wonderful celebration of everything the children have achieved.

The Perform curriculum focuses on fun, friendship and laughter alongside catchy songs and funky dances. Class material is specially designed by Perform, with apps, downloads and videos for the children to enjoy at home. Classes are available for ages 4-7 and 7-12 with a new creative theme each term and, this autumn, they’re taking their 4-7s to Outer Space while the 7-12s will be appearing in Bluebeard’s Bride.

To book a no-obligation FREE trial class at Cambridge or Newnham visit www.perform. org.uk/try They’re offering Families readers a special £40 introductory discount on bookings made by 15th October – just quote CAM151021 T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk

Milton Maize Pumpkin Patch

Almost 18 years ago in July 2003, Milton Maize set out on a mission to create a fun, clean and safe space for families to enjoy the Summer holidays. Last Summer, due to the pandemic, the owners decided not to host a maze event, and after a lot of soul searching they decided that the time was right to formally end the maize maze era on the farm. “It has been an absolute pleasure to welcome nearly half a million of you over the years and we thank you for your support in helping to grow the business into something so special.”

As one door closes, another one opens; and excitingly Milton Maize would like to formally announce the return of a Halloween event at Rectory Farm. This October they will be opening their doors again to the Milton Maze Pumpkin Patch. This will be a pick your own style event and they can’t wait to welcome you all back on the 16th & 17th October and 23rd – 31st October There will be many different varieties of pumpkin to choose from: tiny ones, warty ones, orange ones (obviously), white ones and Monster ones. There will be a variety of Instagram opportunities around the site with colourful displays of pumpkins and squash so you can get that special photo.

They will also have a plentiful supply of wheelbarrows for you to carry your hoard back to the car.

All activities in the Field of Fun are included in the entrance price. Any pumpkins you choose are charged separately at the end of your visit. To book visit www.themiltonmaizemaze.co.uk

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FREE family fun with Heritage Open Days

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture, bringing together over two thousand local people and organisations and thousands of volunteers.

This year’s festival will run from 10th to 19th September and feature more than 1000 free events.

Every year in September, places across the country that are either not usually open to the public or would normally charge an entry fee, throw open their doors to celebrate their heritage, community and history. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences for free.

There will also be hundreds of FREE interactive activities for children, including dressing up, craft, woodland walks and railway rides.

Co-ordinated nationally by the National Trust with support from the People’s Postcode Lottery, the celebration brings together thousands of organisations and properties across England.

New events will be added to the festival directory every day.

Visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk

TANTALISE YOUR TODDLERS TASTE BUDS Having developed the first ever scratch-cooking range designed specifically for babies and toddlers, Piccolo are expanding their offering following popular demand and introducing seven new family favourites to their collection. This includes two flavoured and easy to prepare risottos and brand new stir-in sauce flavours and sizes to cater for different cooking occasions.

As with all Piccolo products, these are made using 100% organic produce, balanced ingredients and are low in salt and sugar.

Piccolo continues their mission to make nutritious food accessible for families everywhere, with the RRP of £1.50 for single serve cooking sauces to £2.75 for risotto meals.

These new products will be available in major retailers including Sainsburys, Coop & Ocado this month.

4 Families Cambridgeshire

Jeans for Genes Day

Jeans for Genes Day is a chance to raise money for children affected by a genetic disorder. From 13th to 19th September, get your nursery, school or workplace to wear their jeans and raise funds to support children with genetic disorders.

Around one in twenty five children are affected by a genetic disorder, with thirty thousand babies and children newly diagnosed in the UK each year. Jeans for Genes Day is an annual fundraising event for Genetic Disorders UK which is a charity that aims to provide support to the individuals and families affected by genetic disorders.

Jeans for Genes Day is an easy way to raise awareness around genetic disorders, educating children and adults alike. Plus, it’s an opportunity for everyone to donate to an important cause and support children who are suffering.

More info: www.jeansforgenes.org familiesonline.co.uk

News & Views NEW POST-COVID MONEY BADGE FOR BEAVERS & CUBS

The Scouts have launched a new Money Skills Badge for Beavers and Cubs which will help build children’s confidence and understanding of money with creative, fun and hands-on activities.

Children start forming their spending and saving habits as early as age 7 and, unlike in other countries, money management skills are not part of the core curriculum in England’s primary schools.

Qualifying for the Money Skills Badge will involve children selecting from up to twenty fun, hands-on activities to complete their badge.

Part of the motivation behind the launch of the badge is the disruption to maths and numeracy learning caused by the pandemic.

It’s hoped that the badge will help around two hundred thousand children ages 6 to 10 hone their financial literacy skills.

More info: www.scouts.org.uk/news

Visit the Family Learning Festival

The Family Learning Festival which runs from 16th to 30th October is a national celebration to inspire a love of learning in family life.

Organisations across the UK, including schools, libraries, museums, children centres and galleries will be staging a range of FREE and low cost creative family learning activities.

Organisers of the festival, the lifelong learning charity Campaign for Learning, believes learning that takes place in the family and home should be valued as much as learning that takes place in school classrooms and formal education. The family is where we learn important life skills and positive attitudes to learning, which enable us to become confident, motivated lifelong learners.

To find a local event, visit www.familylearningfestival.com

World’s Biggest Coffee Morning returns

The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning is Macmillan’s Cancer Support biggest fundraising event for people facing cancer and is dedicated to bringing people together over a cuppa to raise vital funds.

This year’s official event date is 24th September but Coffee Mornings can be held at any time.

Before Covid-19, many patients told Macmillan that being diagnosed with cancer and going through treatment was the scariest thing that they could imagine. These anxieties and concerns have only increased during the pandemic, meaning that Macmillan needs support from the British public more than ever to continue to provide the crucial support needed by people living with cancer.

More info: coffee.macmillan.org.uk

CELEBRATE ROALD DAHL STORY DAY

Every September the life and works of one of the best children’s authors of all time is celebrated on his birthday, 13th September.

During his lifetime, Roald Dahl wrote 20 children’s books and published 48 books altogether. He created over 500 new words and character names and his books have sold more than 250 million copies worldwide.

Join fans from all over the world to celebrate favourite Roald Dahl characters, stories and moments. Get dressed up as your favourite Roald Dahl character at a Dahlicious Dress Up Day event being held at school, community groups and libraries, or host your own by downloading the Roald Dahl Story Day Party.

Visit the Roald Dahl Story Day hub for resources to decorate your home or classroom.

More info: www.roalddahl.com/roald-dahlstory-day

IMPINGTON IB STUDENTS SHINE

100% of International Baccalaureate (IB) students at Impington International College have passed their IB Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP), achieving an average point score of 36, beating the global average of 33.02.

Receiving their results, 30 years after the programme was first introduced at the College, 26% of students attained 40 points or more, with 4 students achieving 44 and 45 – the maximum possible point score. These accomplishments have secured student places at Oxbridge, Russell Group and leading international universities along with a number of top Drama Schools to study a multitude of subjects including Biology, Law, Acting and Psychology.

Reflecting on the results, Jo Sale, Vice Principal at Impington International College, said: “After another challenging year, we are thrilled that the hard work, dedication and resilience of this year’s student cohort has resulted in such tremendous achievements and offer our heartfelt congratulations to all of our students. They will be deeply missed but we are delighted to see them leaving to follow their dreams. As one of the first state schools to offer the IB in the UK, exceptional outcomes like these demonstrate the strength of the programme and its impact on students’ progression since its introduction.”

BookTrust Storytime has revealed this year’s prize shortlist

Celebrating the very best books for sharing with babies and children under five, the shortlisted titles will be central to a new national pilot that the UK’s largest children’s reading charity is running in partnership with libraries. Launching in the Autumn, the pilot is designed to support disadvantaged families engage with their local public library and develop an ongoing reading habit.

Selected by a panel of experts, the six titles in contention are:

• I Really, Really Need a Wee! by Karl Newson & Duncan Beedie - a hilarious toilet tale of determination.

• Octopus Shocktopus! by Peter Bently & Steven Lenton - a brilliantly bonkers story about welcoming newcomers.

• No! Said Rabbit by Marjoke Henrichs – an empathic debut exploring tears and tantrums.

• The Whales on the Bus by Katrina Charman & Nick Sharratt - a fantastically funny reimagined version of a well known nursery rhyme that everyone can sing along to. familiesonline.co.uk

• Lenny and Wilbur by Ken Wilson-Max – a bold and colourful celebration of friendship.

• Arlo The Lion Who Couldn’t Sleep by Catherine Rayner a mindful bedtime book.

The prize, which promotes the life-changing benefits of sharing stories with young children and is run in association with the CILIP Youth Libraries Group and librarians, has this year been incorporated into the new national pilot, BookTrust Storytime.

Families Cambridgeshire 5

Families Feature

Introducing the latest Baby & Toddler Car Seat in One The award-winning Norwegian car seat brand BeSafe, is introducing its brand new iZi Turn B i-Size - a baby and toddler car seat in one, suitable from birth to 4 years old.

Dedicated to developing the safest possible car seats for children of all ages, BeSafe are excited to launch a new seat to the world. Like a true Scandinavian brand, BeSafe prides itself on its innovation and design, with a spirit of adventure at the heart of everything they do.

They enable families to travel at ease, with the knowledge their children are safely secured in the car.

The new iZi Turn B i-Size include: • 360 degree rotation, that makes the transfer in and out of the seat simple and easy for parents, reducing stress for everyone involved.

• This seat is fitted with a BeSafe Baby Shell™ and Newborn Hugger™. The Baby Shell is a one-of-a-kind baby insert that provides an ideal sitting angle custom made for babies, the Baby Shell adds an extra layer of side impact protection to keep babies safe. The additional Newborn Hugger that is placed inside the Baby Shell has a combination of soft material on the sides of the baby and a cleverly placed wedge to keep newborns snug and supported and allows them to lie even flatter by lifting their back instead of the bottom.

• The Dynamic Force Absorber. A state-ofthe-art, innovative headrest design created with a honeycomb placement of V-shaped materials, allowing for controlled bending in the inner area of the seat, whilst keeping a rigid outer frame. By bending like a trampoline, the seat allows for a perfectly controlled and very gentle cushioning of the child. This gives them the most advanced protection in the event of a side impact collision. This brand new design

advances the car seat industry away from the traditional polystyrene side impact support, which most car seats are still currently made from. The new Dynamic Force Absorber is not restricted to just one impact that polystyrene will only withhold,

making our seats more durable with a longer lifespan.

• BeSafe Universal Level technology. A one of a kind installation method that provides an optimal seat angle in EVERY car - solving the issue of sloping back seats which are not ideal for a newborn who is unable to hold their head up.

• SIP+ Additional Side Impact Protection - additional protection which can be added to the side of the seat. Created to combat side impact injuries providing even greater peace of mind to parents, as it is constructed to absorb energy and reduce the load on the child’s neck and head by up to an additional 20% in the event of a collision.

BeSafe are world renowned for their safety credentials. Their research and development team continually focuses on creating innovative products that will improve children’s safety on the roads. All their car seats undergo extreme tests to ensure the highest quality standards.

The iZi Turn B i-Size is available in 7 different colour ways.

For more information about BeSafe and to view the whole collection, visit www.BeSafe.com

Open Morning Kindergarten, Reception and Prep School Saturday 2nd October: 09:45 - 13:00 Register now: wisbechgrammar.com

Discover who we are...

01945 586750

admissions@wisbechgrammar.com

School tran routes from sport Spalding, Peterbo Hunstanton, rough, Kin and surroundgs Lynn in towns and g villages

Families Baby News

Introducing a NEW Swing Maxi -double pumping power reimagined! ★★★★★

New data show rise in hospital admissions for unvaccinated pregnant women The Chief Midwifery Officer for England Marian Knight, Professor of Maternal and Child Population Health at the Nuffield will urge expectant mums to have their Department of Population Health, University COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible. of Oxford and chief investigator of the This follows a worrying rise in unvaccinated study, said: ‘It is extremely good news that women being admitted to hospital with so few vaccinated pregnant women have severe COVID-19, and evidence that the been admitted to hospital with COVID-19.

Delta variant poses a significantly greater However, it is very concerning that admissions risk than all previous strains. of pregnant women to hospital with COVID-19 COVID-19 poses significant risks to both are increasing and that pregnant women mother and baby. Pregnant women are appear to be more severely affected by the particularly vulnerable to becoming severely Delta variant of the disease. ill from COVID-19, ‘ I cannot and around one in emphasise more ten pregnant women I cannot emphasise more strongly how admitted to hospital with important it is for strongly how important it is symptoms of COVID-19 pregnant women for pregnant women to get require intensive care. vaccinated in order to protect to get vaccinated One in five pregnant in order to protect women admitted to both them and their baby. both them and their hospital with symptoms baby. Until they are of COVID-19 gives birth vaccinated, pregnant prematurely. New data from the UK Obstetric women must continue to be extremely Surveillance System (UKOSS), published on attentive to social distancing measures medRxiv, show that COVID-19 vaccinations including mask wearing, 2m distancing and offer effective protection from these risks. meeting outdoors where possible.’

This new analysis reports information on all Nicola Vousden, Registrar in Public Health pregnant women admitted with symptoms of at the Nuffield Department of Population confirmed COVID-19 in pregnancy in the UK Health and the first author of the study said: from the beginning of the pandemic up to 11 ‘Worldwide more than 200,000 pregnant July 2021. women have now received a COVID vaccine, The data shows: with more than 50,000 in the UK. This study • 3371 pregnant women have been admitted shows that very few pregnant women are to hospital with symptomatic COVID-19. admitted to hospital with COVID-19 after • The severity of women’s illness appears they have received a vaccine. Other studies to have become worse; 24% of women have shown that women who have received a admitted in the first wave had moderate vaccine pass on antibodies to their babies, so or severe disease, compared with 36% the benefits of vaccination to both pregnant with the Alpha variant and 45% with the women and their babies are clear.’

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Delta variant.

Gynaecologists and the Royal College of • Vaccination data has been collected since 1 Midwives recommend that unvaccinated February 2021. Of 742 women admitted women who are pregnant or considering since that date, only four have received pregnancy get their vaccine as soon as a single dose of vaccine and none have possible, and book their second doses once received both doses. they are eligible.

familiesonline.co.uk

World leading breastfeeding brand, Medela, has unveiled an exciting new redesign of its iconic Swing Maxi, offering mums double pumping power with a new sleek, quiet and compact design with USB charging.

Perfect for on the go, the easy to use, reimagined Swing Maxi is lighter, quieter and more discreet than before, whilst the USB charging capabilities not only make the pump even easier and faster to charge, but it also enables wire free usage wherever mum may be. When fully charged the battery life lasts up to 6 pumping sessions - great for regular pumping when out and about.

Adding to the discreet redesign, the new Swing Maxi is considerably quieter than its predecessor, coming in under 45DB on the highest setting – so ideal when pumping on the go or when mum is trying to catch up on a good box set!

Featuring the iconic oval shaped PersonalFit Flex™ breast shields that help to find the most comfortable position (whilst adapting to every mum’s unique shape), the Flex technology not only offers the very best support, but is also clinically proven to produce 11% more milk!

Flexibly fitting into mum’s busy lifestyle, the new Swing Maxi makes expressing easier and more efficient than ever before. The compact size and handy fabric loop enable the pump to be used hands free (accompanied by the brand’s best-selling Easy Expression Bustier), hooking to clothing, a changing bag or being discreetly tucked away when in use.

The brand’s extensive research continues to show in their product development, creating research-based products mums know they can trust and rely on. Double pumping has been proven to produce 18% more milk compared to single pumping in less time, so alongside the benefits of the new Swing Maxi, it is certainly a great option for any mums to include as part of their breastfeeding journey.

The New Swing Maxi truly is ideal for use at home, on the go or wherever mum may be!

New Swing Maxi RRP: £250 shop.medela.co.uk

Families Cambridgeshire 7

W hat’s On

Nature Tots

WHEN: 13th & 27th September,

places to Things to do, be had go and fun to ages in for kids of all

Cambridgeshir

e

Cambridge Aquapark, Hannam’s Wake Hub

WHEN: 4th, 5th, 11th and 12th

September Newly expanded, inflatable obstacle course for summer fun with your family and friends. Price includes lifejacket and wetsuit.

All sessions must be pre-booked online. £20pp/hour www.cambridgeaquapark.com 01353 886955

11th& 25th October – 10.00 – 11.30 WHERE: Discovery Den, Ferry Meadows A fun monthly outdoor parent and toddler group with a nature theme including a messy craft activity, time to explore the beautiful outdoors, story and song time.

2+ years. £3.50 www.nenepark.org.uk/ferrymeadows 01733 234193

In the Night Garden Live

WHEN: 11th and 12th September

WHERE: New Theatre, Peterborough

Join Igglepiggle as he looks for Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends in the Night Garden by following their funny sounds until he finds them all!

A fun-filled live show. From £21.00 newtheatre-peterborough.com 01733 852992

Wildlife Eco Boat Trips

Cambourne Little Bugs

23rd October, 9.30 – 11.00 WHERE: Visitor Centre Jetty, Ferry Meadows Cruise along the River Nene where swans, geese and other water fowl will glide alongside the boat with you. A member of the team will help you learn more about the wildlife you observe.

Suitable for: 10yrs+ £12 per person www.nenepark.org.uk/ferrymeadows 01733 234193

15th & 22nd October, 9.30 – 11.00 WHERE: Cambourne Nature Reserve Join Wildlife Adventurer Becca Badger for a series of strolls around Cambourne Nature Reserve and some simple outdoor activities for toddlers. For families with children from 18 months to 4 years old. Free www.wildlifebcn.org 07894 599020

WHEN: 19th September, 13th&

Little Bugs Club – Great Fen

Fireman Sam

and 1st, 8th, 15th& 22nd October, 10.30 – 12.00 WHERE: Countryside Centre, Ramsey Heights A fantastic introduction to the natural world for pre-school children. Each weekly session is packed with activities, walks and games….be prepared to get mucky. £5 per child.

Pre-booking essential www.wildlifebcn.org 01487 710420

and 13.00 WHERE: King’s Lynn Corn Exchange Join Sam, Penny, Elvis, Station Officer Steele and Norman in an all singing, dancing, actionpacked show. You can become a fire-fighter cadet and then watch the magic of the circus. So head along to Pontypandy and watch the adventures unfold!

From £16.50 www.kingslynncornexchange. co.uk/

WHEN: 2nd October, 10.30

WHEN: 17th & 24th September

Autumn Animals

WHEN: 10th September –

30th November WHERE: Cambridge University Botanic Garden Collect a special animal card on your way in and create your own artwork as you explore. 6 cards to collect featuring different animals, along with facts and ideas for fun games and activities.

Adult £6.30, Children Free www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/

Heritage Open Days

WHEN: 10th – 19th September WHERE: Cambridgeshire

England's largest festival of history and culture, gives you the chance to discover local, hidden gems. Churches, museums, railways, gardens: lots of venues open their doors to the public.

Free Booking recommended. www.heritageopendays.org.uk

Open Cambridge

WHEN: 10th to 19th September WHERE: Cambridge

This year's programme, focussing on the past and present, includes a series of free talks, tours, walks and online events. Free www.opencambridge.cam.ac.uk 01223 766 766 8 Families Cambridgeshire

WHEN: 24th September, 1st, 8th,

Family Orienteering

WHEN & WHERE: 18th September

(Milton Country Park) and 16th October 1 – 3pm (Lammas Land), 13.00 – 15.00 An easy, fun way for juniors and families to try orienteering. Three different courses and friendly advice to get you started.

Family groups £5; Adults £4; Children £2 www.waoc.org.uk

Cambourne Wild Babies WHEN: 22nd& 29th September,

6th, 13th& 20th October, 9.30 – 11.30 WHERE: Cambourne Nature Reserve Join a Wildlife Adventurer for a series of strolls around Cambourne Nature Reserve and some simple outdoor activities for adults, allowing you to access your local green space, learn about wildlife, and improve your well-being.

Free (accompanying children need to be under 18 months and pre-walking) www.wildlifebcn.org 07894 599020

Duxford Battle of Britain Air Show WHEN: 18th& 19th September WHERE: IWM Duxford

Enjoy all the action in the skies and on the ground as the museum, hangars, airfield and showground transforms for the weekend with living history, 1940s music and dance, entertainment and activities. From £14.25 (children under 5 free) www.iwm.org.uk/airshows/ events/ familiesonline.co.uk

Families What's on Autumn Open Garden

Clip’n Climb, Cambridge

WHEN: 17 October 10.00 – 16.00

WHEN: September & October

WHERE: Chippenham Park

Gardens Chippenham Park Gardens will be open to the public for a blaze of autumn colour. The gardens, lakes and borders are still full of colour and charm late into summer.

Adult £5; Children FREE, dogs welcome on leads www.chippenhamparkgardens. info/opening-dates

Milton Maze Pumpkin Patch

WHEN: 16th& 17th, 23rd – 31st October

Clip ‘n Climb is suitable for everyone from 4 years upwards and is the ultimate fun and healthy activity for you to enjoy with your friends and family.

Pre-booking essential.

Prices start at £10.00 www.clipnclimbcambridge. co.uk

WHERE: Milton

Choose your own pumpkin from tiny, warty, orange, white or Monster ones. All activities in the Field of Fun (including wooden maze, zip wire, Go karts and many more) are included in the entrance price. Any Pumpkins you choose are charged separately at the end of your visit. www.themiltonmaizemaze.co.uk

Wildlife Watch - Spooky Spiders & Funky Fungi WHEN: 30th October,

Halloween Special 2021 WHEN: 23rd – 31st October,

WHERE: Audley End Railway

Take the Halloween Express Train through the woods to visit the witches and their monster friends, meet Belinda the Fortune Telling Witch, visit William the Woodland Wizard and enjoy the Adventure Play Area.

From £8.00 (children under 1 free) Booking essential. www.audleyend-railway.co.uk

Gangsta Granny

WHEN: 27th – 30th October

WHERE: Cambridge Arts Theatre

From the acclaimed producers of Billionaire Boy and Awful Auntie comes the award-winning West End production of this amazing story by David Walliams, the UK’s best-selling author for children.

From £20.00 www.cambridgeartstheatre. com 01223 503333

14.00 – 16.00 WHERE: Trumpington Meadows Delve into the undergrowth to find spooky spiders and funky fungi and make a Halloween craft! Ideal for 8 to 11 year olds, but younger and older children welcome. £3 per child. Booking essential www.wildlifebcn.org/events/

When replying to adverts or listings, please mention Families Cambridgeshire PYO Pumpkins WHEN: October

WHERE: Lidgate Farm, Isleham

Go along to pick your own pumpkin. Farm also sells delicious cakes and has a small indoor play area. 07860 727089

Church Farm Rare Breeds Centre, Stow Bardolph

WHEN: September & October,

10.00 – 17.00 Make friends with a wide variety of tame animals and experience all their young at close quarters throughout the season as well as enjoying their adventure playground. Why not make a day of it and visit their Tea Room to enjoy a homemade lunch with a delicious piece of cake. www.churchfarmstowbardolph. co.uk/ 01366 382162

SKATERS

WHEN: September & October WHERE: Mill Road, Wisbech

Whether you’re a skating pro or it’s your first time, Skaters’ friendly stewards are there to keep you safe and get you rolling!

From £4 www.skaterswisbech.co.uk 01945 882048

Please note

all events are subject to change and cancellation in view of any future COVID-19 legislations. familiesonline.co.uk

Families Cambridgeshire 9

Open Morning From Kindergarten to 6th Form Saturday 2nd October: 09:45 - 13:00 Register now: wisbechgrammar.com

Discover who we are...

01945 586750

admissions@wisbechgrammar.com

School tran routes from sport Spa Peterboroug lding, h, Hunstanton, Kin and surroundgs Lynn in towns and g villages

Families Education

Oaks International School We are a thriving international school for 2 – 11 year olds and a welcoming community of children, parents and staff from the local area and overseas. We ensure that the children are learning in an unpressurised environment with a focus on them becoming confident, happy, resilient individuals.

We have small class sizes (maximum of 16) and have experience in teaching children from different language and cultural backgrounds. Helping our children to be internationally minded ensures that they value and respect their classmates different cultures and languages. Each child has individualised targets to ensure that they are learning, aspiring and fulfilling their own academic potential.

We make full use of our surrounding environment in Cherry Hinton Park and put an emphasis on outdoor learning. We are exploring new ways of learning and are currently accepting students who would like to learn with us on a flexible basis.

For further information please contact Admissions@oischool.co.uk www.oaksinternationalschool.co.uk

St Mary's School St Mary’s School is the leading independent day and boarding school for girls aged three to eighteen in Cambridge. Recently shortlisted for ‘Independent Girls’ School of the Year’, a St Mary’s education is about discovering and pursuing individual talents with confidence and drive, inspiring girls to become great women – creative, agile, resilient learners, ready to make their mark in the world and overcoming gender stereotypes.

As a faith-based school, courage, respect, compassion, and integrity are part of everyday life. This creates a supportive community, where happiness and wellbeing are a priority, and each girl knows her voice will be heard and valued.

Whilst academic results open doors for our

girls, it is their self-belief, persistence and drive that keeps the door open.

With new state-of-the-art sport facilities, boathouse on the River Cam, a Junior School STEM lab, and a brand-new Preschool, now is a great time for your daughter to join us.

Discover more: stmaryscambridge.co.uk/ visit Open Events (In Person): Preschool & Junior School, Senior School & Sixth Form Open Event - Saturday 2 October 2021 9.30am12.30pm (Online): Sixth Form Online Open Morning Saturday 16 October 2021, 9.30am- 2.30pm Preschool & Junior School Online Open Morning Saturday 6 November 2021 9.30am-11.15am

Wisbech Grammar School Teaching the skills today the world needs tomorrow.

At Wisbech Grammar School, we offer children an exceptional journey, whether your child is joining us in Kindergarten, Prep School, Senior or 6th Form.

We believe that educational development is not confined to the classroom but can be found by discovering your child’s passion by exploring all the opportunities we offer.

Performing Arts, Sport, Creative arts, Duke of Edinburgh are just a few of the 60+ cocurricular enrichment activities that are on offer to pupils at WGS. Our vision is to be a forward thinking educational establishment to teach the skills today the world needs tomorrow. We have recently upgraded our whole site IT

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infrastructure, iPads are being issued to Year 7 pupils as part of their everyday toolkit and our staff are embracing and utilising technology to deliver new ways of teaching.

For information about our admissions process including scholarships and bursaries, contact us either at admissions@wisbechgrammar.com, 01945 586750 or wisbechgrammar.com Whole School Open Morning, Saturday October 02, 0945 – 1230 (Kindergarten to 6th Form)

Families Cambridgeshire 11

Families Education

Dealing with back to school anxiety

TLISTE OR

D

SH

A new school year can be an exciting time for children; equally, it can prompt feelings of anxiety. For most children, these worries are transient and fade quickly. For some, the anxiety may linger well into the school year, particularly during the current pandemic. So how can we support our children with this?

Most anxieties are rooted in fear of the unknown. A new school year brings change: classroom, teacher, routines, social and academic pressures and expectations. For those entering new phases, change can include new schools, new travel routes and new friends.

Establishing good practice and routines in advance of the new academic year will address some common worries, preventing them from becoming deep-rooted. Make preparations well in advance, make them feel exciting and involve your child. Discuss the school day and let them ask questions. Remind them of the great things about school – learning new things, making new friends and exciting new activities.

Reassure your child that they are not alone.

For children whose worries persist, this simple five step programme can help manage anxieties.

TAKE CARE OF THE BASICS. Ensure a good sleep routine, healthy snacks and regular exercise.

PROVIDE EMPATHY. Find uninterrupted opportunities to listen to your child’s worries, expectations and fears. Car journeys, bath time and walks are all ideal times to talk. Listen actively, withholding judgement and advice and validate their feelings.

PROBLEM SOLVE. Discuss coping strategies, ideally led by your child.

Showing confidence in their own problem solving abilities will nurture greater resilience.

HIGHLIGHT THE POSITIVES. Encourage your child to recognise fun elements and not fixate only on the negatives. Use questions like: ‘What was your favourite thing for lunch?’ ‘Did you ask any interesting

DENT INDEPENS OF SCHOOL 2021 e THE YEAR nt experienc Celebrating stude

by Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

questions?’ and ‘What was the funniest thing that happened today?’

Whilst their worries shouldn’t be dismissed, it’s important that your child can recognise the positives in their day.

BE MINDFUL OF YOUR OWN EMOTIONS AND REACTIONS. Recognise that they can create learnt behaviour. By staying calm and seeming positive, the message to our children is that they don’t need to worry.

The golden ticket is communication. Making sure your child is comfortable and confident talking to you and knows that you are ready to listen, will help prevent anxiety spiralling out of control. If you feel that ‘back to school’ anxiety may be something more concerning, then speak to your child’s teacher for advice and support.

Mastering ‘Active Listening’

Inspired girls make great women Open Events Saturday 2 October stmaryscambridge.co.uk/visit

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We all spend a great deal of time listening to our children, at least, that’s the impression we give. It’s true we might listen to the words but do we really hear what they are saying? ‘Active Listening’ is the single most important skill you can have in your parenting ‘toolkit’ - letting your child know that you are ‘with them,’ aware of what they are saying, accepting of their perspective and appreciative of their situation. As our children embark on a new academic year, this will help manage their fears and worries.

To practise Active Listening: • Give your full attention without interrupting; • Ask appropriate questions to make certain you are clear about what is being said; • Reflect or repeat back to show your understanding; • Keep comfortable eye contact; • Listen without judgement, being mindful of your facial expressions; • Avoid offering opinions and solutions; • Listen with empathy – showing you truly hear and understand; • Open and honest communication can be one of the strongest factors in helping your children become resilient, responsible and caring people.

Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of EmParenting www.emparenting.co.uk, which works with schools and parents to strengthen children’s core qualities of emotional intelligence, kindness and compassion and offers insights, skills and tools to nurture their development and wellbeing.

Families Cambridgeshire 13

KIDS TRAVEL

FREE

*

Cambridge Park & Ride Taking you into the heart of Cambridge Open seven days a week

For more information on fares, timetables and other details, please visit www.cambridgeparkandride.info * Up to 3 children under 16 travel free with each fare paying passenger

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n O s ’ t a h W his

do t Things to ma, ime - Dra g Summert somethin t r o p s & music one in for every

Cambridg

eshire

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes WHEN: Autumn term starts

September WHERE: Hills Road Sports Centre: Wednesdays, Newnham Croft Primary School: Saturdays, St. Andrews Church Hall Chesterton: Mondays Confidence building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination.

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class. www.perform.org.uk 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk

Stagecoach Performing Arts Classes WHEN: Autumn term start on

15th September WHERE: Coleridge Campus, Cambridge and Cambourne Village College, Cambourne Stagecoach aims to nurture and develop young potential through singing, acting and dance classes in Cambridge & Cambourne, stretching young imaginations and helping them to develop confidence, physical awareness, communication and articulation.

From £50 for two-week trial www.stagecoach.co.uk 01223 359974

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Families Clubs & Classes Razzamataz Cambridge

WHEN: Autumn term starts September WHERE: Impington Village College

Performing arts training for Razz Tots (2-3yrs), Minis (4-5yrs), Juniors (6-8), Inters (9-11yrs) to Razz Seniors (12-18yrs), with access to talented performers through specialist workshops and classes. Small classes to nurture a child’s confidence and self-esteem, plus a lot of fun. From £54 for 12 weeks. Free taster session available. cambridge.razzamataz.co.uk 01223 755113 or 07895 347239

Paxton Lakes Sailing Club

Rugbytots

WHERE: Little Paxton

Cambridgeshire Fun, structured play sessions take children on a journey of sporting imagination whilst teaching them how to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team. Suitable for ages 2 – 7.

From £9.00 per session www.rugbytots.co.uk

WHEN: 26th–29th October

Official RYA training centre that welcomes people 8 years +, with large selection of boats and equipment available. Courses have maximum 12 places with qualified instructors to ensure personal attention.

Adult £125.00 Child £100.00 for 4 half-day sessions plus £6.99 for log book. www.paxtonlakes.org.uk/index. php/sailing

Cambridge Cookery WHEN: 27th October

Half Term Cookery Fun Morning or afternoon sessions for parent and child cookery lessons.

Includes making pasta, classic Italian, curries and baking bread.

Great for younger kids or older teens. From £45 www.cambridgecookery.com/ cook/classes

Elite Tuition Cambridge WHERE: Cambridge

Their hands-on, dynamic, and collaborative approach to learning is accessible to children of all ages looking for that extra boost in their Maths and English Tuition.

Contact them today for more information. £39.99 info@elitetuition.uk 07712 467 322

Cambridge United Community Trust Football for All

WHEN: Saturdays and Sundays

WHERE: Coleridge Community

College Disability sport sessions provided

by Cambridge United Community Trust including Ambulant Cerebral Palsy,Down's Syndrome, Frame, Powerchair and Pan-Disability Football. £3 per session www.cuctrust.co.uk/inclusion/ disability-sport/ 07948 407950

WHERE: Various locations across

Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA) of Performing Arts WHERE: Parkside Community

College PQA provides outstanding performing arts tuition for 4 – 18 year old’s. Each week students rotate through specialist sessions in Musical Theatre, Comedy & Drama and Film & TV taught by leading industry professionals.

Book a free taster session today. www.pqaacademy.com 0800 531 6282

CGA Gymnastics Satellites

WHERE: Bottisham, Cambourne,

Chesterton, Ely, Impington Cambridge Gymnastics Academy has a waiting list of over 2000 potential gymnasts! So, they opened 5 new satellite venues to make gymnastics accessible for more children. Enquire at each venue for availability.

From £6/hour www.cgagymnasticssatellites. co.uk

West Anglian Orienteering Club

WHERE: Milton, Trumpington,

Ferry Meadows Welcome members of all ages and abilities. Hold regular events with courses suitable for children and newcomers, many events have Training sessions for club juniors. Also provide two junior training nights each term. www.waoc.org.uk/juniors

Horizons Dance Academy Gymnastics Academy WHERE: North Cambridge

Academy, Arbury Rd A series of fun classes for young children: Creepy Crawlies and Wiggly Worms (6wks to crawling); Toddling Tigers (crawling to 2yrs); Jumpy Joeys (2-3yrs), and Marvellous Monkeys (3-4yrs).

Pre-book for term.

From £7.00/session www.cambridgegymnastics. co.uk 07971 864653

WHERE: Cambridge, Ely,

Downham Market and surrounding areas A friendly, community dance school offering quality IDTA Ballet, Tap, Jazz & Acro classes.

Horizons proudly encourage all young dancers, whatever their ability and goals. Also offering IDTA dance teaching qualifications.

Stephanie@horizonsacademy. co.uk 07793 815720 Families Cambridgeshire 15

ARE CHILDC RS E VOUCH D E T ACCEP

GE & BRID CAM BOURNE CAM

NEW SCHOOL O P E N IN G AT C H E S T E RT O N

Stagecoach Cambridge & Cambourne New school opening on Wednesdays at Chesterton Community College.

Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year olds, where students learn to embrace life with creativity and courage.

01223 359974

www.facebook.co.uk/stagecoachcambridge

cambridge@stagecoach.co.uk

www.stagecoach.co.uk/cambridge

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.