THE TRADE MAGAZINE FOR MUMS & DADS!
FREE! Cambridgeshire JULY / SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE #43
SUMMER
CAMPS
BOOK ON TO THE BEST CAMPS AND WORKSHOPS IN THE AREA PAGE 17
J U LY / AUGUST 2017
THINGS TO DO • PLACES TO GO • FUN TO BE HAD THIS SUMMER
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Contents & Competitions
Dear Reader,
My quote of the day: “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it” Charles R. Swindoll
As summer arrives it brings sunshine, and what comes with sunshine is outdoor living, picnics and trips to the sea. Make the most of it, have breakfast in the garden, stay up late to see the stars or camp in the garden. Spend time just enjoying the children before they are all grown up and would prefer to be with friends! We have a bumper issue of things to do with the Family this summer there really is something for everyone. Have a great summer.
@familiescambs facebook.com/CambridgeshireFamilies
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4/5 News and Views 7
WIN
8/9 What’s On this summer
A FAMILY TICKET TO RAPUNZEL THE MUSICAL
Kings Lynn Corn Exchange is offering readers of Families the chance to win a family ticket to see Rapunzel the musical this September.
TH WOR R E OV £60
Pregnancy & Baby News
Trapped in a Tower, and all grown up will she ever get out and return home? Longing for adventure and freedom and with only Viktor, the crow, for company how will Rapunzel ever escape? Can Prince Freddie save the day or will Rapunzel never make it home? To enter, visit www.familiescambridgeshire.co.uk
Families Cambridgeshire is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Cambridgeshire are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.’
holiday
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Summer in the Museums
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‘ Discover who you are’ with Wisbech Grammar School
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Big Days out this Summer
17-19 Summer Camps and holiday Workshops
EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336 editor@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk DESIGN: Emma Sheppard emma@bigbearcreative.com PUBLISHING ASSISTANT: Becky Lawrence admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk LISTINGS EDITOR: Hayley Bryant assistant@cambridgeshirefamilies.co.uk SOCIAL MEDIA: Crystal McClean 20,000 copies of Families Cambridgeshire available through schools, nurseries, hospitals, clubs and classes, selected shops and restaurants. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know.
J U LY / AUGUST 2017
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News & views
Poorly fitted child car seats put 8 out of 10 kids in danger
Animal Agents: the 2017 Summer Reading Challenge is on its way! Libraries across the UK are getting ready to introduce children to new worlds of facts and fiction through Animal Agents, the 2017 Summer Reading Challenge™, run by independent charity The Reading Agency. Animal Agents will introduce young readers to a variety of clever creatures, specially trained to use their skills and natural instincts to unravel mysteries. Animal Agents is illustrated by Tony Ross, illustrator of the hugely popular Horrid Henry series. Each year through the Summer Reading Challenge children are encouraged to read six or more books of their choice from the library.
There are collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate for every child who completes the Challenge. Children can sign up at their local library from the end of June and all materials are free. Children can chat, get reading recommendations and enter competitions all year round on the Summer Reading Challenge website. Teachers, parents and children can also gain Animal Agents-related reading inspiration from the Summer Reading Challenge 2017 book collection, which comprises 70 reads for children aged 4-11 including new titles being published this summer.
Being a parent could help you live longer Having children could improve your chances of living longer, a new study has found. The research, from Sweden’s Karolinska Institute, used national registry data to analyse the mortality rates of nearly 1.5 million Swedes aged between 60 and 100. It found that those with children tended to live longer than those without. The study found that men benefited more from being parents than women when it came to longevity, despite the fact that women had a longer average lifespan overall. At age 60 fathers had a life expectancy of
a further 20.2 years, compared to 18.4 years for men without children. 60-year old mothers could expect to live for another 24.6 years compared to 23.1 years for childless women. The researchers suggest that one reason for the findings could be that children are able to provide better care, emotional support and argue for better treatment for their aging parents. Another factor could be that parents tend to live healthier lifestyles than those without children.
More than eight in 10 drivers are putting children’s safety at risk by failing to correctly fit child car seats, according to a new study by What Car?. A roadside investigation carried out by the UK’s biggest car-buying brand, in conjunction with Leicestershire Police and Child Seat Safety Ltd, found that only 15% of the child car seats assessed were fitted correctly and were appropriate to the children being carried in them. Of 85 seats analysed in 51 cars, only 31 (36%) were fitted correctly and, when the suitability and fitting of the child were taken into account, that figure dropped to just 13. Three quarters (74%) of the incorrectly fitted seats inspected were able to be rectified on site but four seats – 5% of the sample – were condemned, with two being removed immediately. Whereas car seats with ISOFIX attachments were all correctly installed, those that used the seatbelt as a restraint caused the most problems. The most common problem was the harness or seatbelt restraining the seat being too loose, twisted or incorrectly positioned. Up to the age of 12 years old, when it is assumed that children will be able to use the seatbelts fitted in a car, the driver is responsible for ensuring that an appropriate child restraint is fitted and that it is being used correctly. Child Seat Safety co-director, Julie Dagnall, said: “At best, drivers could land themselves with a £100 Fixed Penalty Notice, but at worst they are significantly increasing the risk of death or serious injury to their children.”
Beat the back to school rush with Snappy Tags Lazy summer days and plenty of ice-cream is what summer is all about! But before you know it, it’s nearly September and time is spent rushing around the shops for uniform, shoes, pencil cases and bags. We’ve all had that ‘sinking’ feeling when we realise we’ve got to label it all, but Snappy 4
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J U LY / AUGUST 2017
Tags® are a quick and hassle free alternative to all that sewing or ironing. Simply order personalised tags and an applicator, and all you have to do is attach the tag to the care label inside the uniform. A half days’ work done in a 20 minute flash! To order tags, visit www.snappytags.co.uk
News & views Read, read and read some more A study by OUP showed that just 10 mins of shared reading a day can have a huge impact on children’s progress. Pop a book in your bag so you can use any opportunity to get your daily 10 mins in. We will be uploading weekly activities that you can complete with your child to help keep them engaged with what they are reading. Visit explorelearning.co.uk/summer to find out more and download your first activity!
Seize the summer with Explore Learning!
Play some games Have a movie night
Explore Learning are encouraging families to seize the summer! To help you do this they have put together a jam-packed summer programme with creative ideas on how to keep your child’s brain active over the holidays, so they are ready to settle back into the new school year confidently!
Research carried out by Explore Learning highlighted watching TV/films is the number one thing children want to do over the summer. Use this to motivate your child to read. Find a book that has been made into a film that your child wants to watch. Then plan a movie night far enough in advance so you can read the book together before enjoying the film.
Start a blog
Send a postcard
Learn some new skills as a family, by creating a blog together. Give your child a little note book to jot ideas down whilst you are all out and about, then write up what you’ve done. Take lots of pictures as these are a great tool to help children who find writing tricky. Encourage kids to describe what is happening in each image to get their creativity flowing.
Let your friends and family know what you’ve been up to with a postcard. They’re only short so are a wonderful way to get a bit of writing going during the holidays. If your child is reluctant to write, then why not try a postcard app like By Post? They can take their own pictures to make into postcards and type their message.
There are bound to be some rainy days this summer, so use this as a chance to get out some board games. These are great for so many reasons, from developing language to improving memory skills. Need some new games? Have a scavenger hunt in local charity shops to see who in the family can find the best game.
Tuition To keep your children progressing over the summer, a tuition centre is a great option. Prevent the battle ground of getting children to do work at home and get them along to a centre where there are lots of other children getting involved. Explore Learning runs maths and English sessions as well as a whole range of interactive workshops throughout the holidays to keep your child’s brain active. The best thing is you can go along and try one of these for free, so get in touch today!
Every busy parent needs a Mindful chef! Myles and Giles were inspired to launch Mindful Chef when their busy schedules made it difficult to eat healthily. At that time, recipe box delivery companies did not offer truly healthy options. The pair believe that key to a healthier life is a reduction in gluten intake and avoidance of refined sugars and carbohydrates. What makes Mindful Chef different is an ability to create well-balanced, imaginative 100% gluten-free recipes. Their recipe boxes include no refined carbs and eschew high-carb fillers such as pasta or bread. Instead they guarantee genuinely exceptional quality, gluten-free, dairy-free and locally sourced fresh, organic produce. Working with local, sustainable farmers in the West Country, the award-winning organic meat and fish included in the recipes are also stocked in Fortnum & Mason and Harrods. All recipes and ingredients are scrutinised by personal trainer and nutritional coach Myles, who works closely with expert nutritionists and chefs. Instructions are easy to
follow and meals are easy to make; helping to make chefs out of the most inexperienced cooks. Recently, we were lucky enough to sample the Mindful chef recipe boxes for one week. Though sceptical at first with 9 and 11 year old boys, we were pleasantly surprised at how well everything was packaged and clearly labelled in bags with all ingredients weighed out ready to use. The brown bags in which the meals were supplied were perfect for recycling. Having meals ready certainly took the pressure off cooking (not having to plan,
shop and prepare nutritious meals for the family was a relief). Everyone loved the food; we had clean plates every night! Duck was our favourite, and we will certainly use Mindful Chef again. We give them 5 stars. Mindful Chef offers eight weekly changing recipes, with four containing fresh, locally sourced meat and fish, organic vegetables and delicious herbs and spices; and four solely plant-based recipes. Boxes are delivered to homes or offices in the UK free of charge. From £6 per meal for a family of 4 – great value for money. www.mindfulchef.com J U LY / AUGUST 2017
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Baby news
Goodbye fussy eaters! You can teach babies to like certain foods with baby-led weaning, says British nutritionist Vanessa Clarkson. Everybody has a food they don’t like and quite often it tends to be the foods that are good for us. British-nutritionist Vanessa Clarkson in her book Real Food for Babies and Toddlers, explains that the foods we like and dislike are not predetermined before birth. In fact, disliking a food nearly always comes down to a bad experience when we are young, so if we are to have a wide-ranging diet in adulthood, we should become familiarised with real, whole foods as soon as possible. Babies are weaned from the age of six-months and the traditional method parents tend to use to introduce new foods is with puree. However, Vanessa, who has worked for the NHS, Asda and Innocent advising them on nutrition, argues that it is pureed foods which lead us to reject the same food when we have it in its whole form later on. This is because we come to like foods based
The Mummy Must Have!
WHAT’S NEW
Add a touch of style to any outfit, while your baby enjoys the soothing benefits of Nibbling’s exciting range of teething accessories. As every parent is aware, the pesky stages of teething are something no parent looks forward to. However, that stage could certainly be made easier with one of these fab necklaces. Not only do they look great but babies can sooth themselves on the go. With a great range of necklaces, bracelets, dummy clips and teething toys in a range of colours, shapes and styles, fashion conscious mums can stay bang on trend without sacrificing important mummy duties. Created lovingly by ex-fashion designer Emily Sunderland Sutter, Nibbling products are made from 100% food grade silicone. The Pembridge Teething Necklace comes in beautiful shades of soft blue, marble and peach and works well with a summer wardrobe, for just nipping out or attending a summer garden party! The Pembridge Teething Necklace is available online from Nibbling for £24.00.
s Familie
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on familiarity. If we recognise a food by its taste and texture and it doesn’t make us ill, we classify it as safe. However, if you start babies off on pureed foods and then change to whole foods later on, children are likely to start saying no. No, this doesn’t taste right. I don’t like it. Take it away. The key to nipping fussy-eating in the bud is baby-led weaning, which means giving babies real, whole food from the get-go. This means no pureed mush and no feeding straight out of a glass jar or packet! So if you want your offspring to eat everything that’s put on their plate, then hop on board the baby-led weaning train. Real Food for Babies and Toddlers by Vanessa Clarkson (Murdoch Books, £14.99). Photography by Ben Dearnley
The world’s Smallest Nappy ever! Pampers has launched its smallest nappy ever, specially designed with neo natal (NICU) nurses to meet the specific needs of the smallest premature babies. Introducing the new Pampers Preemie Protection Size P3 nappy, which is three sizes smaller than a regular newborn nappy and suitable for babies born weighing as little as 1.8lb / 800g. Pampers Preemie Protection nappies are available in sizes P1 (for babies weighing <5lb/ 2.7kg); P2 (for babies weighing <4lb/ 1.8kg), and P3 (for babies weighing <1.8lb/ 0.8kg). The brand new P3 has a narrower nappy core to better fit between the baby’s legs, as well as all-over fastening, cuffs that gently seal around baby’s delicate legs, and an absorbing liner that pulls wetness and mess away from baby’s skin to help dryness and comfort. To celebrate the amazing fighting spirit these tiny babies show every day, pampers have launched the #PowerOfBabies campaign and partnered with Bliss (www.bliss.org.uk), the UK’s leading charity for babies born premature, to help support these little fighters and their families. Pampers will be donating three million of their premature nappies to neonatal units in the UK & Ireland. J U LY / AUGUST 2017
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Families Fun Sounds Green, Cambridge Maze & Funyard WHEN? July, Wednesdays: 18.15
WHEN? July - August
HOW MUCH? Normal garden admission 01223 336265 www.botanic.cam.ac.uk
HOW MUCH? From £8; under 3s FREE www.skylark-events.co.uk
WHERE? University Botanic Garden Take a rug and enjoy traditional folk, Glenn Miller to Gershwin brass, Afro Brazilian Jazz, Samba and Bossa Nova. Café open.
WHERE? Skylark Garden Centre, March An amazing family day out with Maze, Pesky Pigeon Tractor Rides, Pig Racing and so much more!
Pick Your Own Strawberries
W hat’s On
places Things to do, e had to go, fun to b this summer
WHEN? July - August
WHERE? Farms across region Children love Strawberry picking. Visit a local ‘pick your own’ farm. Other fruit also available to pick, some farms have cafés and kids activities. www.pickyourownfarms.org.uk/ EastAnglia_pyo.php
… for k ids of a
ll ages!
WHERE? Newmarket Racecourses Fantastic action-packed fun. Check in at Rowley’s Kids Club for a free ‘goody bag’ and get your face painted. Jump for joy on inflatables. Each Saturday is themed: 22 July is Great British Summer Day with music, giant deck chairs, donkey rides, Punch & Judy shows, traditional swing-boats and a toy town carousel!
WHERE? Church Farm Stowbardolph Different animal themes are running every week, with free crafts (MonFri) in the education room, plus a weekly quiz to win a small prize. Every day there is Pig Racing, animal Encounter sessions and tractor & Trailer rides. HOW MUCH? Prices from £4.50 under 2s go FREE www.churchfarmstowbardolph. co.uk
HOW MUCH? From £11; under 18s FREE newmarket.thejockeyclub.co.uk/ family-fun-days
Hanhams Wakeboarding WHEN? July - August
WHERE? Stretham, Nr Ely A BWSW accredited venue with inspiring cable facility. Progress your ability whether your first time or as a seasoned rider. HOW MUCH? Prices from £28 per session www.hannamswakehub.com
Summer at the Museums
WHERE? Welney Wetland Centre Take part in six fun activities and explore the wetlands with FREE Wildlife Ranger log book packed with everything you need for a day of exciting discoveries. www.wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/welney
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The Big Weekend WHEN? 7-9 July
WHERE? Parker’s Piece, Cambridge Live music at its heart with Fireworks on Friday night. Foodstalls, cinema, gaming, messy making, storytelling, face-painting, sport and much more. With silent disco! HOW MUCH? FREE www.cambridge.gov.uk/summer
Wimpole History Festival WHEN? 7 – 9 July
WHERE? Norse mythology with Francesca Simon, the secrets of a medieval knight with Philip Ardagh, and so much more. Booking essential & fee for talks. wimpolehistoryfestival.com 01223 357 851
WHEN? 22 July – 3 Sept
WHERE? At venues across Cambridgeshire with everything from storytelling and play-based activities for younger children, to hands-on happenings for all ages. Many events free. See page 11 for details of this year’s events. www.museums.cam.ac.uk/ whats-on/summer-at-themuseums
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HOW MUCH? Adult £9.95; Child £8.95; Under 3s FREE www.themiltonmaizemaze.co.uk
WHEN? 22 July–3 September: 9.30 – 17.00
WHEN? July - August
WHEN? July and August –
WHEN? 14 July – 5 September: 10.00 – 18.00 Explore the 7-acre castle Maze with Field of Fun, Go karts, Zip Wire, Tractor and Trailer rides. And Water Wars!
Dusty’s Wildlife Rangers Summer Saturdays Family Themed Days Out
Fun at the farm
Milton Maize Maze
J U LY / AUGUST 2017
Comedy Club 4 Kidz
What Does Nature Do For Us Anyway? WHEN? 24 – 28 July: 10.00 – 14.00 WHERE? Paxton Pits Environmental Education Centre, St Neots Drop in to discover more about the natural world and all the important jobs it does for us. HOW MUCH? Child £3.50 www.wildlifebcn.org/whats-on
Saxon Wisbech WHEN? 26 July: 10.30 – 14.30
WHERE? Wisbech Museum Find out about Saxon Wisbech, see replica objects from that time; make a Sutton Hoo style helmet or write your name in runes. Drop-in. HOW MUCH? 50p Child www.wisbechmuseum.org.uk
Pond Dipping Fun
WHEN? 22 July: 16.00
WHEN? 26 July & 17 August: 10.30 – 12.30
WHERE? Cambridge Junction Comedy club for kids aged 6-11 years. Catch the Festival’s funniest acts, swear-free and otter-ly hilarious.
WHERE? Hinchingbrooke Country Park Join Rangers and volunteers to gain an insight into the fascinating life within ponds.
HOW MUCH? Adult £7, under 16s £5 www.junction.co.uk/comedy-club4-kids
HOW MUCH? Child £2 www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk/ leisure/parks-nature-reserves-andgreen-space
Families Fun Children’s Archaeology Day WHEN? 27 July: 11.00 – 4.00 WHERE? Denny Abbey Budding archaeologists are invited to have some hands-on fun at this popular event. www.dennyfarmlandmuseum. org.uk
LEGO Brick Animal Trail WHEN? 5 August – 3 Sept
WHERE? Welney Wetland Centre With large swan, dragonfly and other models that form a trail to inspire everyone to build a better future for nature. HOW MUCH? £20.55 for family ticket www.wwt.org.uk
Kid’s Tree Climbing WHEN? 28th July 10:00 – 3:00
WHERE? Ferry Meadows Peterborough Children can have a go at tree climbing in a rope and harness. Instruction is given by Rangers. Meet at the Visitor Centre. Booking is essential. HOW MUCH? £2 www.neneparktrust.org.uk
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Family Creative Afternoons WHEN? August, Wednesday & Thursdays WHERE? Denny Abbey Drop-in, themed, family creative fun in heritage setting. www.dennyfarmlandmuseum. org.uk
Shadow Art WHEN? 5 August 11.00-15.00
WHERE? Cambridge University Botanic Garden Use the shadows of the plants around you to make some abstract artworks. Drop-in. HOW MUCH? Usual admission, children FREE www.botanic.cam.ac.uk 01223 336265
WHERE? Flag Fen, Peterborough Travel back in time in the Bronze Age roundhouse, try traditional dyeing around the fire, uncover artefacts thousands of years old
and have a go with our replica Bronze Age tools. Plus fun crafts and trails. Drop-in. HOW MUCH? Adults £8; Children £5, £20 families www.vivacity-peterborough. com/whatson
WHEN? 6 August
WHERE? Trumpington Meadows Nature Reserve Heartbreak Productions bring their adaptation of David Walliams’ bestselling children’s novel. HOW MUCH? Adult £14, Child £9 www.heartbreakproductions.co.uk 01926 430307
WHEN? August: 10.00 – 16.00
HOW MUCH? FREE www.wildlifebcn.org/whats-on
WHEN? 29 – 30 July
Billionaire Boy comes to Trumpington!
Fen Friends Wild Days
WHERE? The Countryside Centre, Ramsey Heights Visit to discover the self-guided nature trail or to do some den building; why not take along a picnic too.
Awesome Archaeology
Thomas Summer Holiday WHEN? 12 & 13 August: 9.30-16.30 WHERE? Nene Valley Railway, Stibbington Join Thomas with activities and Thomas’ other friends up and down the line from Wansford to Peterborough. Booking recommended. HOW MUCH? Family £48 www.nvr.org.uk/events
The Wind in the Willows
Wildlife Trust Bat Safari Punt Tours WHEN? July - August, Fridays & Saturdays WHERE? Scudamores Punting Cambridge Your chance to spot the Soprano Pipistrelle or Daubenton’s bat flitting around the punt and maybe other species too! HOW MUCH? Child £15.00 www.scudamores.com/batsafari-punting 01223 359750
WHEN? 16 August: 14.30 – 17.00 WHERE? Milton Country Park Immersion Theatre bring you Ratty, Mole, Badger and the fantastic Toad as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime. HOW MUCH? Adult £11, Child £7.70, Under 3s FREE www.miltoncountrypark.org/ events (0871) 220 0260
Little Monsters WHEN? 9 August: 10.00 – 15.00
WHERE? Frosts Garden Centre, Brampton From mask making to creating a monster finger puppet with a glass of squash and a chocolate treat too. Pre-book. HOW MUCH? £6.50 www.frostsgardencentres.co.uk
Peter Pan at Flag Fen WHEN? 24 August: 18.30
WHERE? Peterborough Join Wendy, Michael and John Darling on their adventures with Peter, far away on the magical island of Neverland. Performed outside weather permitting. HOW MUCH? Adult £15, Child £10, Family £44 www.vivacity-peterborough.com/ whatson
Please quote Families when booking any of these events
Movies on the Meadows 2017 WHEN? 25 – 28 August
WHERE? Grantchester Meadows More than a dozen fantastic films to be shown on a giant inflatable Airscreen in this picturesque setting. HOW MUCH? Adult £15, Child £12.50 www.cambridgefilmfestival.org. uk/movies-on-meadows
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Families Fun
SUMMER AT THE MUSEUMS Here are our top picks for Summer at the Museums 22 July - 3 September 2017 Whether you’re looking to learn something new, a day out close to home, or a fun way to spend a rainy day, then this year’s Summer at the Museums is a great place to start. From hands-on crafts and old-fashioned games, to computer wizardry and storytelling, there are over 120 fun, low cost, family friendly events to choose from. So this summer, forget the longhaul flights and book in for an adventure on your doorstep. We have highlighted a few of our favourites here but for a full list of events visit www.museums.cam.ac.uk/summer Fre
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Tile Stamping
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Toying with Science
WHEN? Tuesday 25th July and Tuesday 15th August, 12.30-2.30pm
WHEN? Monday 31 July and Monday 14th August, 11am-1pm/2-4pm
WHERE? All Saints Church Help us fill in some of our missing floor tiles. Design your own stamp to print onto a tile and take home. All ages
WHERE? Whipple Museum of the History of Science Discover the science toy-makers use to make toys and games exciting, unusual and experimental. Play with science toys from the past and present and make your own to take home. All ages
HOW MUCH? Free, drop in
Board Game Bonanza WHEN? Thursday 27th July, 2-5pm
WHERE? Burwell Museum & Windmill Wizard chess, real Snakes and Ladders and Burwell Monopoly… play your favourite and find a game to suit everyone. All ages HOW MUCH? Normal admission charges apply, drop-in e! Fre
India Unboxed Family Festival
WHEN? Saturday 29th July, 10.30-4pm WHERE? Museum of Archaeology & Anthropology A family festival both inside and outside the Museum. Inspired by their latest exhibition Another India, get hands-on with workshops, contribute to a large-scale artwork, follow the Museum trail and enjoy music and performances throughout the day. All ages HOW MUCH? Free, drop-in Fre
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Museum Opening Weekend
WHEN? Saturday 29 July, 10am-4pm WHERE? Norris Museum Enjoy a fun-filled, jam-packed festival across the town. See the new galleries, meet people from history, print your own t-shirt, try out craft activities and don’t miss the parade at 2pm. All ages HOW MUCH? Free
HOW MUCH? Free, drop-in
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Family Art Week: Big and Small
WHEN? Tuesday 1st August, 11am-3pm WHERE? The Fitzwilliam Museum Be amazed by the tiny details in the From Kabul to Kolkata exhibition and use your inspiration to paint some small and big creations. Drop-in for a henna tattoo, special family tours, and Indian dance demonstration. All ages HOW MUCH? Free, drop-in
Electronics Lab – Build an Electronic Dice WHEN? Wednesday 2nd August, 11am-1pm WHERE? Centre of Computing History A workshop for budding electronics engineers or anyone interested in learning to solder. Come and build yourself an electronic dice that will revolutionise the way you play board games. Ages 8+ £26 (accompanying adult £8), pre-book 01223 214446 / www.computinghistory.org.uk
Family Engineering Morning WHEN? Wednesday 9 August and Wednesday 16th August, 10am-12.30pm WHERE? Cambridge Museum of Technology Join the team from Cambridge University Engineering Department and work with your family to design, build and test a rocket and a towering chimney. All ages HOW MUCH? Child £1.50, adult £3.50, pre-book info@museumoftechnology.com
Summer Crazes and Comics WHEN? Thursday 10th August, 2.00-5.00pm WHERE? Burwell Museum & Windmill Experience summer 20th century style. Bounce on a space hopper, learn how to tie-dye, show off your 20th century dance moves and draw cartoons with a comic book artist. All ages HOW MUCH? Normal admission charges apply, drop-in
Family Film Screening: The Jungle Book (1967) Fre
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WHEN? Friday 8th September, 7.30-9pm Forget the back-to-school blues and enjoy an evening of classic cinema with the family. Pop-up cinema company Venture Cinema brings to you Disney’s classic version of The Jungle Book on the big screen. All ages HOW MUCH? Free, pre-book bookings will open at 9am on 14th August 2017 – please check www.museums.cam.ac.uk/ summer for updates
Travel Parking facilities are limited at many venues so public transport is recommended. The Park and Ride runs until 8.30pm and up to 3 children travel free with each full price adult. Park and Ride: www.cambridgeparkandride.info.
Museum Information Check out the list to see if a museum is participating near you: • All Saints Church, Cambridge • Burwell Museum & Windmill • Cambridge Centre for Computing History • Cambridge Museum of Technology • Cambridge University Botanic Garden • Ely Museum • Farmland Museum • Fitzwilliam Museum
• Great St Mary’s Church, Cambridge • Museum of Archaeology & Anthropology • Museum of Cambridge • Museum of Classical Archaeology • National Heritage Centre for Horseracing & Sporting Art • Norris Museum • The Polar Museum
• Saffron Walden Museum • Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences • St Neots Museum • Stained Glass Museum • UL Millstein Exhibition Centre • Whipple Museum of the History of Science • Wisbech & Fenland Museum
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Families Promotion
Discover who you are…
AT WISBECH GRAMMAR SCHOOL Wisbech Grammar School is one of the oldest Independent Day Schools in the country, founded in 1379 by the Guild of the Holy Trinity. For more than 600 years, since those first 14th century scholars met in the Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul, the School has played a pivotal role in the life of the town. The School remains extremely proud of its heritage, however, it is also firmly focused on the future. At its core, the School focuses on how it can ignite and shape young minds by offering an all-round education that inspires. At Wisbech Grammar School, academic success is a given. However there is a strong ethos that educational development is not simply confined to the classroom or science laboratory, but can be found in the drama studio, sports fields, expressed through languages, art and textiles and in the music rooms. This truly allows pupils to ‘discover who they are’ through the endless opportunities and extra-curricular activities that are built into the normal school day. Employers and universities look for pupils who can demonstrate more than just the skills to pass exams; they seek individuals who
show character, resilience, determination, and mental resolve. This is where Wisbech Grammar excels in developing young people beyond the classroom. They understand and get to know each pupil, so they can help them to truly ‘discover who they are’. Wisbech Grammar School deepens a pupil’s understanding of a subject and enhances their knowledge by providing a positive and inspiring learning environment in which each child can thrive and be the best they can be. To really experience all that is inspiring about Wisbech Grammar School, we encourage you to visit, particularly when the school is in session. Wisbech Grammar School offers scholarships at the three core entry points of Year 7, Year 9 and Year 12. The deadline for application is 24 November for entry into September 2018. • Academic Scholarships which are awarded on the basis of the very strongest academic performance • All-Rounder Scholarships are also awarded on the basis of strong academic performance and demonstrate a particular talent in either sport, the arts, music and drama
Open Events Saturday 30 September: Whole School Opening Morning (For entry into Reception through to year 11) Tuesday 17 October: 6th Form Open Evening W/C 5 – 9 February: Prep School Taster Session week Wisbech Grammar School would love to show what makes their pupils and School so special, contact the admissions team for an informal chat, to arrange a personalised tour or visit an upcoming open event. 01945 586750 or email admissions@wisbechgrammar.com
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Big Days Out
Around Cambridgeshire The long, lazy days of summer demand BIG family fun and can accommodate longer journeying times to reach prized destinations. Check out our top 5 picks of fabulous all-day adventure attractions beyond Cambridgeshire’s borders!
Aqua Park Rutland
WHERE: Oakham For some serious water fun head to the biggest Aqua Glide Aqua park in the country. Measuring over 100m by 80m the floating inflatable mega-park has climbing walls, trampolines, balance bars, rockers, rollers, blast bags and the UK’s biggest slides. Adults must accompany children (8+) during the sessions, which last 50 minutes, and you must attend a briefing session before entering the park. The outside park is open even in rain though not in extreme weather. Booking is strictly online. HOW MUCH? From £20 - check website for offers www.aquaparkrutland.co.uk
Picnic Day Boat
Woburn Safari Park
WHERE: Bedfordshire Stretching across 360 acres with over 1000s animals, Woburn is perfect for intrepid adventurers who delight in the exotic. Catch a glimpse of the park’s latest arrival, a Rothschild’s Giraffe, as you drive through the Road Safari; or be the first to spot a cheeky monkey or Lion King. The Foot Safari trails past penguins, lemurs, elephants and smaller reptiles. Expel the excitement of close encounters on the Giraffe High Ropes, Woburn Railway and in play areas. With keeper talks and demonstrations and restaurants for re-fueling, those explorers will sleep sweetly on departure. HOW MUCH? Under 3s FREE; Adult £22.99; Child £15.99 (online) www.woburnsafari.co.uk
WHERE: Potter Heigham, Norfolk Broads The most idyllic way to experience the sights and sounds of the Norfolk Broads is from the water. And the best way to take that journey is at your own pace in a picnic boat. That way you can choose whether to stop for lunch in one of the many picturesque villages you pass along the way, or simply pop out for icecream or sightseeing after a lazy lunch of your own-making on board! Picnic boats seat a maximum of 10 people and include a single gas hob, fridge, sink and toilet as well as cutlery, crockery and so forth to prepare a meal. HOW MUCH? £140 for half day www.herbertwoods.co.uk
BeWILDerwood
WHERE: Hoveton, Norfolk Everyone feels compelled to play together at this adventure playground in and around the trees. The fantasy-themed setting with tree-mazes, rope bridges, slides and zipwires is the home of Boggles and Twiggles. You can learn more about these characters in the story of Swampy the Marsh Boggle, told on a delightful boat ride through the shady broads. Face painting, crafts and interactive storytelling also take place in bell tents and wooden shacks. Tasty snacks are served close to activity areas so the play-weary can rest and revive but remain part of the adventure. And if you find the characters too adorable to leave, take home the book: ‘A Boggle at BeWILDerwood’ by Tom Blofeld. HOW MUCH? Under 92cm FREE; 92–105cm £13.50; over 105cm £15.50 www.bewilderwood.co.uk
Dinosaur Adventure
WHERE: Lenwade, Norfolk Prehistory has never been such fun! A huge expanse of dino-delight awaits any budding palaeontologist here. Outside you can dabble in excavation, play in and around model dinosaurs and other play apparatus; enjoy Jurassic Putt & Raptor Racers and follow the Dinosaur Trail across the park to the Secret Animal Garden. Take a Deer Safari or ride the Zip wire. Likewise the Dinomite Indoor Play zone is a hive of slides and climbs; just outside, close to the restaurants is Pterodactyl’s Treehouse. And Dippy’s Splash Zone is really fantastic watery fun that should not be missed. Take appropriate wet wear and a towel! HOW MUCH? Adult £13.20; Child £16.10; Under 3s FREE www.dinosauradventure.co.uk
Please mention Families Cambridgeshire when booking J U LY / AUGUST 2017
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Families Fun From the complete beginner to advanced swimmer. Class sizes of 3-4; half hour session each day. HOW MUCH? 5 day course £70 www.elyaquaswimschool.co.uk 07557 335113
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RAZZAMATAZ Dance, Drama & Singing Ages 4 – 18 years WHERE: CRC Sports Centre, Cambridge Regional College Kids can experience dance, drama and singing, together with learning about theatre skills, prop making and much more. Week long course: students aged between 4-8 can attend morning sessions and students aged 8-18 all day. On the last day there will be a short performance for parents/guardians, family and friends. www.cambridge.razzamataz.co.uk 01223 755113
ARTY CRAFTS HOLIDAY SCHEME Ages 5 – 12 years WHERE: The Scout Centre, Chedworth Street, Cambridge WHEN: 24 July – 1 September Encourage your child’s individual creativity and confidence in these fun art workshops. HOW MUCH? £38.00 day, £152.00 week www.artycrafts.co.uk 07980146382
CHURCHILL SUMMER CAMPS
WHERE: The Peterborough School, Thorpe Road WHEN: Throughout holidays: 9.30 – 4.30 Ofsted registered, multi-activity camps for children aged 4 -14. Activities such as athletics, circus skills and sweet making. HOW MUCH? 5-days £158.00 www.churchillsummercamps. co.uk 01780 753461
For Ages 5-9 WHERE: The Angles Theatre, Wisbech WHEN: 24 - 28 July HOW MUCH? 5-days £158.00 Five-day workshop with hit songs; Mulan Jr. brings ancient China to life. Live performance at end. www.anglestheatre.co.uk 01945 474447
ELITE SWIMMING ACADEMY HOLIDAY COURSES
WHERE: Kings Hedges Learner Pool and St Johns’ College School, Cambridge WHEN: Throughout holidays Sessions each morning for 5 days. Complete beginners to established swimmers. Maximum 3 children per class. HOW MUCH? £100 www.eliteswimmingacademy.co.uk
WHERE: Little Thetford, Ely WHEN: 31 July & 7 August
WHERE: Faith’s School, Cambridge & Hinchingbrooke School, Huntingdon WHEN: 24 July to 18 August & 24 July to 25 August HOW MUCH? £39 day, £154.00 week Multi-activity day camps for children aged 4½ to 14 years. Running for 22 years with an experienced team to make sure your children always have a brilliant time. Ofsted registered, giving you peace of mind, whilst ensuring maximum FUN for kids! 0845 123 5299 www.barracudas.co.uk
For ages 5 + WHERE: Wood Green, Kings Bush Farm, Godmanchester WHEN: 6 August & 3 September Interactive and informative family dog safety workshop. Booking essential. HOW MUCH? FREE www.woodgreen.org.uk handson@woodgreen.org.uk 0300 303 9333
DISNEY’S MULAN JNR SUMMER WORKSHOP
ELY AQUA SWIM SCHOOL INTENSIVE COURSE
BARRACUDAS ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS
FAMILY DOG WORKSHOPS
RUGBY TOTS For 2 – 7 years WHERE: Ely College WHEN: Saturdays until 26 August: 9.40 & 10.35 Places available for 3.5 – 5 & 5 – 7 year classes which run into summer holidays. Energetic coaches support kids every step of the way in a fun, structured way whilst teaching how to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team. Popular classes in September in Ely & Cambridge; book ahead. www.rugbytots.co.uk 0345 313 0446
PERFORM Drama, Dance & Singing For 4 – 12 years WHERE: Newnham Croft Primary, Chedworth Street WHEN: Morning classes run until 21 July. This Summer Perform’s 4-7s group will be saddling up and going on a Wild West adventure to find the Horse with the Golden Mane. The 7-12s will be zooming off on a fun-filled outer space adventure with Robinson Crusoe in a space-age version of the castaway survival classic. FREE sessions for newcomers. www.perform.org.uk
Please quote Families when booking any of these events
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Families Fun to investigate Science in a safe, structured but fascinating way. Check website for details. www.east.madscience.org/ summerscienceholidaycamps.aspx 01223 880997
PAXTON LAKES SAILING CLUB 8+ years WHERE: Paxton Lakes, Little Paxton August WHEn: Four-day courses: 10.0013.00 & 14.00-17.00 HOW MUCH? Adult £125:00 Child £85:00 Official RYA training centre with a large selection of club owned boats & equipment available. Participants learn to sail a dinghy and learn to reach, tack, run and gybe. They learn essentials such as rigging and rope work and how to launch and recover a dinghy. www.paxtonlakes.org.uk
MAD SCIENCE HOLIDAY CAMPS WHERE: Various locations across Cambridgeshire WHEN: Dates throughout the holidays HOW MUCH? £36 day, £170 week Engage children by allowing them
STAGECOACH Drama, Dance and Singing Summer workshops
SUPER CAMPS
WHERE: Long Road Sixth Form College, Cambridge Perfectly located for families needing school holiday childcare in Cambridge, Super Camps at Long Road Sixth Form offers a fulfilling school holiday activity experience that combines wonderful outdoor pitches and courts with state-of-theart indoor amenities. Super Camps received another Outstanding Ofsted rating in 2016. HOW MUCH? £49 day, £200 week for ages 4 – 12 years 01235 467300 www.supercamps.co.uk
Ages 4-16 years WHERE: Coleridge Campus, Cambridge See website for details Still the best network of performing arts schools in the world. Nurturing and developing young people’s potential through dance, drama and singing. This
summer, children can attend workshops for 5 days of fun; working with a professional team to rehearse and perform for family and friends. HOW MUCH? £130 5-day camp www.stagecoach.co.uk/ cambridge 01223 359974
OXFORD & CAMBRIDGE SINGING SCHOOL
WHERE: St Catharine’s College, Cambridge WHEN: 24 – 28 July A unique opportunity for children aged 7–13 to learn about Classical music with professional singers and voice coaches. HOW MUCH? £50 day, £225 week www.oxbridgesingingschool.co.uk
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Awaiting Stagecoach Full page artwork - rpt from last edition