m eu us EN M OP y or W S t NO
Issue 96 March/April 2020 familiesonline.co.uk
familiesonline.co.uk Families Oxfordshire 1
Contents & Competitions
Dear Reader,
4. News and Views 6. The Story Museum
I’m absolutely thrilled to become the Assistant Editor of Families Oxfordshire Magazine and part of the larger Families Magazine group. In one of my first roles compiling the What’s On guide, I have been reminded of what a great county we live in and what amazing opportunities are afforded to our children – from walks in the countryside exploring nature and breathing in the beauty of spring to the fabulous events at the Oxford Literary Festival with so many free activities for children (and parents) of all ages to enjoy. As a Mum of two children – one boy and one girl with a six-year age gap – I understand that it’s often difficult to find activities that both will enjoy. However, Families Oxfordshire Magazine has often assisted with planning what to do during both term time and school holidays to keep them both happy. I’m excited to join the team and discover even more brilliant local activities to share with you all in the future. @familiesCambMag
7. Families Promotion 8. What's On Pages 11. School Spotlights 12. Ten Great Educational Apps for Children 14. What to do if School's not Working 15. Easter Clubs & Classes
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A FAMILY TICKET
Long Nose Puppets return to Oxford’s North Wall Arts Centre this Easter holidays with their magical, musical puppet show, Arthur’s Dream Boat, based on the beloved book by Polly Dunbar. On Wednesday 8 April at 11am & 2pm, bounce along the waves with Arthur and his very own pink and green dream boat with a stripy mast. This playful children’s show with breath-taking puppets, so enchanting that everyone will want to sail away with Arthur’s in his dream boat! From the makers of Shoe Baby, Penguin and Out of the Hat, with music by Tom Gray, of the Mercury Award winning band Gomez. DON’T MISS IT! To enter visit our facebook page @familieseastoxfordshiremag
Wise words
FAMILY: a little bit of crazy, a little bit of loud and a whole lot of love.
EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336, editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk ASSISTANT EDITOR: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk SALES: Jean, Jean@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk SOCIAL MEDIA: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk DESIGN: Caroline Thompson-Heap, info@cheekymonkeydesigns.net Families Oxfordshire 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 Oxfordshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Oxfordshire. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Oxfordshire 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.
Enjoy this great opportunity to experience just what a Cranford House education could offer your child.
9-13 MARCH Reception Open Week 20-24 APRIL
Come and join us See school life in action first hand *Latest inspection Nov 2014
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Excellence in Independent Education for Boys and Girls aged 2-18 28/02/2020 14:34 Families Oxfordshire 3
News & views
Fantastic New Opportunities for Abingdon Prep School Abingdon Prep is pleased to announce that it has received planning permission for a new building which will create very exciting opportunities for the boys across a wide range of subjects. The new development, which is planned to open in Autumn 2021, will house a specialist Music School, a second science lab, purpose-built spaces for CDT and four additional classrooms for Years 6 and 7. There will be a major change to the library which will more than double in size and undergo complete refurbishment becoming a bright, modern new learning space with teaching, break out and quiet reading areas as well as a new multi-use hall for the younger years and much
Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Charity
Between the 11th and the 17th May, nurseries, early years groups, families and children up and down the country are being encouraged to take part in a Muddy Puddle Walk to raise money for the international children’s charity, Save the Children. By taking part in a Muddy Puddle Walk and raising money for Save the Children, you can help vulnerable children around the world have a safe place to play and learn. Sign up at MuddyPuddleWalk.org for a free Muddy Puddle Walk Fundraising Pack full of fun Peppa Pig inspired activities to help you get started – with tips for great walks indoors and out, fundraising ideas, fun activities to get your walkers ready for the big day and at the end of the walk, there’s a free Peppa Pig sticker reward for every child. More info: MuddyPuddleWalk.org
Celebrating Breastfeeding Families Across the UK
Fast becoming the largest annual breastfeeding celebration in the country, The Big Breastfeeding Café is back for the 5th year in 2020. The iconic event is set to connect thousands of families on the 6th May and is set to be the biggest yet. Led by the world’s leading breastfeeding brand, Medela, the initiative will see a network of mini events taking place on the same day across the UK, encouraging mums and dads to chat and celebrate all things breastfeeding and virtually bringing together thousands of breastfeeding families. Parents are invited to join the national celebration by hosting their own Breastfeeding Cafe either at home, in a local coffee shop, or even a nearby hall. Every host will be sent the ultimate event kit from Medela. Café owners are also being encouraged to join the campaign by hosting an event for the local parenting community, supporting local families and enabling even more mums and dads to get involved in spreading positive news about breastfeeding. For every café hosted, Medela will send a Big Breastfeeding Café pack, a complete package of everything café hosts need including posters, invitations, surprise treats and some allimportant tea and biscuits, this year donated by McVities and Tick Tock Tea! To sign up, parents simply need to pop an email to thebigbreastfeedingcafe@ gmail.comto find out more. 4 Families Oxfordshire
improved facilities for Computing, Drama and Learning Support. Speaking about the new development, Headmaster Craig Williams said “We are very fortunate to have these new facilities which will complement the excellent teaching we have here at Abingdon Prep. Music is an integral part of our curriculum and extra-curricular activities and our new Music School will encourage the boys to further their talents and passion. The new science lab is an important part of our ongoing development of STEM teaching and will allow all the boys to experience science in a laboratory environment. I know the boys will make the most of the opportunities this new development brings.”
Learn to Play Day
A free national event to encourage everyone in the UK to start making music - is coming to Oxfordshire on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th March. Supported by Jools Holland OBE, and run by charity Music for All, the 2020 Learn to Play Day will see music shops, teachers, venues and schools throughout the county partner with leading musical instrument brands to offer thousands of FREE music lessons. So far, participating venues include: • PMT Oxford, Cowley Road – free taster sessions on rock instruments and in store fun and excitement on Saturday 28th March Further venues are set to be announced over the coming weeks. Held in partnership with the Musicians’ Union, the ‘Take It Away’ scheme and Making Music, the Learn to Play Day initiative has been growing in popularity over the last nine years with a record 10,000 free lessons held in 2019. Musician Jools Holland said: “As Patron of the Music for All charity, I’m delighted to lend my support to National Learn to Play Day. It’s a pleasure to be able to share the joy of music, and this special day allows thousands to get involved as venues all over the country offer music lessons for free.” To find a FREE music lesson near you, simply visit musicforall.org.uk/ learntoplayday/
FT Weekend Oxford Literary Festival Announces Its 2020 Lineup
The Festival returns from Friday 27th March to Sunday 5th April Now in its 24th year, The FT Weekend Oxford Literary Festival brings a host of the most distinguished and exciting speakers to deliver colourful and lively talks, discussions and debates on subjects that span politics, history and religion to food, health and the environment. One of the highest profile and most prestigious festivals in the UK, visitors travel from around the world to be part of this celebration of literature, culture and intellectual debate in the city globally renowned for its academic prowess. Frank Cottrell-Boyce and Lucy Worsley head another great line-up of events for children and young people at this year’s festival. Historian Dr Janina Ramirez will speak about her Riddle of the Runes books which are both gripping adventures and eye-opening introductions to Viking life; and ‘poetry powerhouse’ Allie Esiri will be celebrating Shakespeare’s poetry with the help of some special actor friends. Other authors in the children and young people programme include Rob Biddulph, Sarah McIntyre and Philip Reeve, Robin Stevens, Emma Carroll and Michelle ‘Wolf Brother’ Paver. View the full programme and book tickets via oxfordliteraryfestival.org
familiesonline.co.uk
News & views
Having Fewer Toys May Be Better Participate in British Science Week INVISIBLE GOODNESS WRAPPED UP IN FUN
Lucy Quick, Perform founder says ‘Perform classes are a bit like a pasta sauce that’s filled with hidden vegetables: kids think it’s really tasty and don’t realise that it’s full of healthy nutrition. Our classes provide invisible goodness wrapped up in an hour of games, role-play, dance routines and songs. The children are enjoying an hour of fun but they’re also being equipped with essential confidence-building social skills. We all want our children to be happy, feel confident enough to try new things and interact well with others. Taking part in regular drama activities encourages confident and fluent speaking, boosts reading and writing abilities and enhances coordination and spatial awareness. Rescuing a mermaid from a pirate ship might seem like just imaginative improvisation for 6 year olds, but it's teaching problem-solving and team-work too. My vision for Perform is to deliver classes with a specific focus on developing a child’s confidence and social skills and not to create just another drama school.’ Try a FREE no-obligation drama class in Oxford, Abingdon, Didcot and Wallingford. Visit www. perform.org.uk/try to book.
British Science Week is a 10 day celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths which takes place from 6th to 15th March. The annual festival features fascinating, entertaining and engaging events and activities across the UK, designed to appeal to families with children of all ages. Your child can also enter the annual poster competition and/or download a series of FREE activity packs at www.britishscienceweek. org, filled with resources and ideas to try out at home or school. The good news is these activities don’t require parents to have a science background or buy any expensive equipment. To find your local event or activity, visit www.sciencelive.net
Maintained Schools Outperform Academies and Free Schools
Maintained schools in England outperform academies and free schools in national exams taken at the end of year 6,according to figures released by the Department of Education (DfE). This data seemingly contradicts assurances given by the Government for several years that conversion of schools from council-maintained to academies and the opening of free schools would drive up education standards. The DfE reports says 66% of pupils in local authority-maintained schools reached the Government’s expected standards in both maths and reading,whilst 65% did so in academies and free schools. In sponsored academies, only 58% of pupils reached the required national standards. Free schools also compared poorly with maintained schools, with 62% of pupils reaching the expected standards. In maths alone, 77% of free school pupils reached the expected standard, compared with 80% in maintained primaries. More info: www.gov.uk/ government/ familiesonline.co.uk
You’ve probably suspected it – well, it may now have been confirmed! Children who have too many toys are more easily distracted, and do not enjoy quality playtime, a new study suggests. Researchers at the University of Toledo in Ohio, US, recruited 36 toddlers and invited them to play in a room for half an hour, with either four toys, or sixteen toys. They found that youngsters were far more creative when they had fewer toys to play with. They also played with each for twice as long, thinking up more uses for each toy and lengthening and expanding their games. The authors of the study conclude that parents, schools and nurseries should pack away most of their toys and just rotate a small number regularly, to encourage children to become more creative and improve their attention spans. More info: www.sciencedirect.com
Discover National Parks this Spring
Saturday 4th April marks the start of Discover National Parks Fortnight, a celebration event aimed at inspiring people of all ages to explore outside and learn more about these special places. There are fifteen National Parks in the UK, spanning the length and breadth of the country. Ten in England, three in Wales and two in Scotland. National Parks protect almost 10% of England, 20% of Wales and 8% of Scotland. The UK-wide celebration includes a wide range of events and activities running throughout the Easter holidays, including guided walks, geocaching and wildlife experiences at every park. These events offer families a great opportunity to explore, learn, relax and unwind. To find about more visit: www. nationalparks.uk/discover Families Oxfordshire 5
There’s a surprise around every corner at The Story Museum There’s a surprise around every corner at The Story Museum – reopening on 4th April after an 18-month major redevelopment. “It’s really exciting” says Sophie Hiscock, Head of Communications, “we’ve taken all the good bits about the old Museum and taken it to a whole new level. We’ve got new Galleries including a Whispering Wood, an Enchanted Library and a space especially for the under 5s called Small Worlds, not to mention a new theatre, an immersive film experience, a learning studio and lots and lots of buggy parking!” The redevelopment, supported by Arts Council England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, as well as a host of other Trusts, Foundations and generous individuals, means that for the first time the Museum will be using all of its central Oxford site in buildings that are now fully accessible. In order to achieve this, the Museum has installed a stunning elliptical staircase and external walkways running round the courtyard so that visitors to the new Museum will enter the Galleries through what was once a window on the first floor! The design teams on the project have been listening carefully to feedback on what people most want to see in the Museum – so loyal customers will be pleased to know that the giant bed is back and that there will be a wardrobe into Narnia, plus a host of new stories to step in to from Horrid Henry to Winnie-
the-Pooh. The Small Worlds gallery will celebrate favourite picture books from We’re Going on a Bear Hunt to Traction Man. Designer Tom Piper (best known for his installation of ceramic poppies at the Tower of London) has also designed a beautiful new theatre space at the Museum, lined with an abundance of recycled doors. Audiences are in for a treat with the opening show - David Gibb’s magical musical bus ride Rolling Down the Road running from 7th – 10th April, followed by the return of Fuel Theatre’s extraordinary immersive show The Day I Fell Into a Book at the start of May. There will also be new regular shows for younger children including Saturday Story Box and Drag Queen Storytime. For full details of opening times, events and ticket prices visit www. storymuseum.org.uk
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Reopening 4 April 2020
New interactive exhibitions Shows & storytelling Favourite characters
www.storymuseum.org.uk
Box Office: 01865 807600 Registered charity 1107809
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Families Promotion
FAMILY MEALTIMES – lead by example Establishing a healthy relationship with food is important from a young age, but encouraging our children to eat healthily can feel like a constant battle for many parents. Once upon a time, mealtimes were a sacred and special time to chat and discuss your day with your family, but that’s steadily on the decline. According to a report from nursery brand Stokke (www.stokke.com), a quarter of families eat dinner in front of TV every day, just half enjoy a family meal at the dinner table and one in ten parents admits to letting children under 14 eat alone in their rooms. It seems parents may also be setting a bad example with three quarters of parents admitting that they keep their phones on the table at all times during dinner. Lead by example! Charlotte Stirling-Reed, a leading specialist in child nutrition, has identified some of the ‘bad habits’ we’re teaching our little ones at the dinner table: 1. NOT EATING TOGETHER - The biggest bad habit we are all guilty of. Simple but often challenging, aiming to sit and eat together whenever possible is the first step to healthy, happy mealtimes! Children learn the skills of eating, social skills and even what foods they enjoy by first copying others. 2. SETTING TOO MANY MEALTIME RULES Making mealtimes too pressured and setting mealtime rules, such as clearing your plate, eating all of your vegetables first, or sitting at the table until everyone has finished, can end up making mealtimes less enjoyable for children. Instead, stick to rules that you know are 100% necessary and matter to you. familiesonline.co.uk
3. MAKING SEPARATE MEALS - It is not
uncommon for parents to make separate meals for everyone in the family. This isn’t good for your child or for your sanity as a parent. To avoid allowing dinnertime to become a dreaded battle, and help your fussy child, offer a choice between one or two HEALTHY options. For example, do you want Weetabix or Porridge?
for good eating behaviour, such as ‘well done daddy, you’ve eaten ALL of your broccoli’, and talk about the aspects of the meal you enjoyed.
6. FORCING OR COAXING YOUR CHILD INTO EATING - Avoid trying to force or coax your
child into eating, even if you’re worried they’re not consuming enough food. It can establish a negative relationship with food and can also be dangerous. Young children are actually excellent at knowing when they are hungry and when they are full. 7. USING DISTRACTIONS SUCH AS TELEVISIONS, TOYS OR PHONES - According
to the research undertaken by Stokke, over two thirds of parents try to use distractions to get their children to eat something unconsciously. However, this simply teaches your children that food is bad or unimportant. Or, do you want potatoes or pasta today? This way, you’re allowing them some independence whilst still being in control of the food they’re eating. 4. OFFERING TOO MANY ALTERNATIVES
- Research has shown time and time again that babies and children learn to like what is familiar to them. If you offer your child broccoli and they reject it and you never offer it again, they won’t EVER learn to like it and their diet is being restricted! 5. GIVING ALL YOUR ATTENTION TO THE FUSSY EATER - In most instances,
any attention given to food refusal simply encourages it. Instead give your attention to the people around the table, whether it be dad, brother or sister, who are eating well and enjoying their food. Offer lots of praise
8. OFFERING THE SAME FOODS EVERY WEEK
- It’s SO easy to get stuck offering the same foods each week, but boredom is one of the biggest reasons for children going off food and acting up at the dinner table. By offering a variety of foods not only are you exposing your children to a variety of tastes, flavours and nutrients, but you’re also preventing them getting fed up. With the main aim of encouraging families to sit together for mealtimes, Scandinavian designer, Peter Opsvik created the Stokke Tripp Trapp in 1972, the popular highchair that grows with your child as they get older and brings them closer to the table. It has since sold more than 11 million worldwide. For more information about the Stokke Tripp Trapp and other Stokke products visit www.stokke.com Families Oxfordshire 7
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COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK
WHERE: Burford WHEN: March & April, 10.00 – 17.00 Wonderful animals and seasonal events complemented by daily activities: penguin feeding, adventure playground, farm yard fun and single-gauge railway! Why not enhance your visit to the park by becoming a CotsWild Explorer and completing an animal themed quiz. Child £10.50; Under 3s FREE www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk
Things to do be had go and fun to ages in for kids of all
Oxfordshire
Monkey Music
WHERE: Oxfordshire, various locations WHEN: March & April Why not introduce your child to music and movement from an early age. It is a fun and musical class with the only twist that it is educational too. First Class – Free, www.monkeymusic.co.uk
Oxford’s Wonderful Women Family Trail
WHERE: Oxford Museum WHEN: 2 – 28 March: 10 – 16.30 Sunday 8th March is International Women’s Day! Drop in throughout March to follow their gallery trail which celebrates some notable women from Oxford’s history. www.oxford.gov.uk/ museumofoxford
Little Ashmoles – Let’s Draw
PERFORM
WHERE: Across Oxfordshire WHEN: March & April From weekly drama and dance classes, to that unique “Holiday Club”, Perform has everything to offer to your child from ages 4 and up. Book now for a free trial or look at their Superhero themed Easter Holiday Course (age 4 -10) Trial FREE www.perform.org.uk
Whizz Kidz
WHERE: Thame WHEN: March & April Why not head to Whizz Kidz for a fun hour or two, or more should you little one not yet be tired. Large indoor softplay / entertainment centre which has everything you could want. Child prices from £3.75 - £7.75 (age dependent); Adults free. www.whizzkidz-thame.co.uk/
8 Families Oxfordshire
WHERE: Ashmolean Museum WHEN: 5, 12, 19 & 26 March: 10.30 – 11.15 Explore, play and learn together with a different theme each month. All welcome but particularly suitable for 2–5 year olds. Little Ashmoles sessions take place every Thursday in term-time. FREE www.ashmolean.org/events e! Fre
Pick ‘n Mix
WHERE: Pegasus Theatre WHEN: 7 March Roll up, roll up to the Pegasus Pick ‘n’ Mix this March! Pegasus is turning into a circus and whether you’d rather be a ringmaster or an acrobat, you can certainly be part of the fun. FREE www.pegasustheatre.org.uk
Day Out with Thomas
WHERE: Didcot Railway WHEN: 7 & 8 March: 10.00 – 17.00 Make tracks to a Day Out with Thomas™, the ultimate Thomas & Friends experience, for a special 75th anniversary party with Thomas the Tank Engine. Child (2 – 15) £12.00; Family £49.60 www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk
Family Open Day
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre WHEN: 14 & 28 March: 10.00 -12.00; 12.30-14.30; 15.00-17.00 Join the Science Oxford Centre for a unique science-themed experience that enables the whole family to play, explore and make discoveries. Suitable for children aged 3+, under 3s free www.scienceoxford.com
Nature Tots – Didcot
WHERE: Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre WHEN: 18 and 19 March: 9.30 – 11.30 An opportunity for pre-schoolers to interact with and learn from nature. Outdoor nature play, games, stories and craft on this wild and wonderful nature reserve. www.bbowt.org.uk
Natures Explorers Club
WHERE: Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham WHEN: 21 March: 10.00-12.00 Join them on the third Saturday of every month for a hands on wildlife club for 5-8 year olds at the Nature Discovery Centre. Each month follows a different theme with hands on wildlife activities. £5 per child (supervisory adults free) bbowt.org.uk
Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Birthday
WHERE: Cornerstone Art Centre, WHEN: 22 March: 14.30 The enchanting world of Sarah and Duck is brought to life featuring the wonderful characters from the BAFTA award-winning CBeebies show. Family £40 www.cornerstone-arts.org
Mothering Sunday Afternoon Tea
WHERE: Waddesdon Manor WHEN: 21 & 22 March: 12-16.00 Spend time with your family with the popular and special Waddesdon Sparkling afternoon tea served with a selection of the most delightful pastries, cakes and dainty selection of savouries. Child £16 (Normal ground admission applies) waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on
Lambing Weekends
WHERE: Earth Trust, Little Wittenham WHEN: 21 – 22 & 28 - 29 March Meet lambs, piglets, goats and more. Craft activities and refreshments available. Children’s activities and refreshments available. Prices from £5 www.earthtrust.org.uk
Dig Camp
WHERE: Earth Trust, Little Wittenham WHEN: 21st, 22nd, 28th & 29th March: 10.30 – 12.30 and 13.30 – 15.30 Take your child to Dig Camp to find out what it’s like to be an archaeologist, and have a chance to make your very own discovery together! £15.00 (for one adult and one child) www.earthtrust.org.uk
Oxford Literary Festival
WHERE: Venues across Oxford WHEN: 27 March – 5 April Wonderful talks and workshops with authors. Guests include Janina Ramirez, Frank Cottrell Boyce and Anthony Horowitz. Booking essential. www.oxfordliteraryfestival.org
familiesonline.co.uk
Families What’s on ARTHUR’S DREAM BOAT
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e!
Spring Flowers Family Trail
WHERE: Oxford Museum WHEN: 28 March – 2 May: 10 – 16.30 It’s that time of year when flowers start to come into bloom. Find the flowers on the objects in the Micro-Museum. www.oxford.gov. uk/museumofoxford Fre
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Little Ashmoles – Rainbow
WHERE: Ashmolean Museum WHEN: 2, 23 & 30 April: 10.30 – 11.15 Explore, play and learn together with a different theme each month. All welcome but particularly suitable for 2–5 year olds. Little Ashmoles sessions take place every Thursday in termtime. All family events are FREE. www.ashmolean.org/events e! Fre
WHERE: The North Wall Arts Centre WHEN: 8 April, 11.00 & 14.00 A magical playful children’s show with breathtaking puppets, so enchanting that everyone will want to sail away with Arthur’s in his dream boat. Suitable for ages 2 - 8 Full Price £8.00 www.thenorthwall.com
Baby Ashmoles – Islamic Middle East
WHERE: Ashmolean Museum WHEN: 3 & 24 April: 10.30 – 11.15 Singing and sensory play for babies under 1, with a short gallery talk for grown-ups. Meet in the gallery. FREE but booking is essential. 1 ticket required per adult. www.ashmolean.org/events
Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt WHERE: Greys Court, Henley-on-Thames WHEN: 4 - 19 April: 10 – 16.30 Join us for the Easter holidays with an exciting trail to follow on the estate. Trails are £3 each with a chocolate, or chocolate alternative, prize when you’ve finished. £3 (normal admission charges apply) www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Diddy Ducklings
Rolling Down the Road
WHERE: The Story Museum WHEN: 7 - 10 April Family singer songwriter David Gibb is proud to be the driver of the world’s first bus to be powered by song and needs your help to find the perfect song for each of his passengers. £8.00 www.storymuseum.org.uk
Family Craft
WHERE: Harcourt Arboretum WHEN: 8 April: 13.00-16.00 Enjoy spring-themed craft activity in the beautiful setting of Harcourt Arboretum. Look out for spring plants like crocus, scilla, and lesser celandine. Suitable for all ages. www.obga.ox.ac.uk
The Toughest Easter Egg Hunt
WHERE: Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum Family Open Afternoon WHEN: 8 & 9 April: 14.00-16.00 Learn navigation techniques to find the eggs hidden around the museum. Drop in. £2 per child, grown-ups go free (Children must be accompanied by an adult). www.sofo.org.uk
WHERE: River and Rowing Museum WHEN: 7 April: 10.30-12.30 Make a brood of ducklings with thin balsa wood to swim on a collage pond. Learn to dance the wonder waddle and find out how ducks communicate. Suitable for children aged 4 – 7 years. Children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult. £8.50 Booking essential. www.rrm.co.uk 01491 415600 familiesonline.co.uk
Plants and Pollinators
WHERE: River and Rowing Museum WHEN: 9 April: 10.30-12.30 Welcome in springtime by creating a mobile blooming with paper and felt plants and the insects that help them grow. Encourage nature to thrive on your doorstep by mixing a seed ball to take home. 7-11yrs £8.50 www.rrm.co.uk 01491 415600
Marching to the Beat of the Drum
WHEN: 15 & 16 April: 14.00-16.00 WHERE: Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum, Family Open Afternoon Discover the role music plays in the armed forces and have a go at playing some tunes. Drop in. £2 per child, grown-ups go FREE. www.sofo.org.uk
Birds of Prey
WHERE: River and Rowing Museum WHEN: 16 April: 10.30-16.00 Meet the magnificent birds from Millets Farm Falconry and get up close to hawks, eagles and owls. Enjoy nature themed art and craft activities – watch out for the vultures! Free with admission www.rrm.co.uk 01491 415600
Easter Eggsplorers
WHERE: Warburg Nature Reserve WHEN: 16 April Go and explore Warburg nature reserve and learn about some of the wildlife living there! Activities are aimed at 4-11 years. Younger and older siblings are welcome to accompany. £4 per child (children should be accompanied by an adult) www.bbowt.org.uk Fre
Nick Cope
WHERE: Cornerstone Art Centre WHEN: 15 April: 11.00 Nick Cope’s family performances are legendary! He has a fanatical army of little and not-so–little fans from all over the world, if you haven’t heard his songs or seen his shows before come and find out what you’re missing. Family £32.00 www.cornerstone-arts.org
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Spring Fair
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Bluebell Walk
WHERE: Oxford Botanic Garden & Harcourt Arboretum WHEN: 25 April: 11.00-16.00 Enjoy traditional music, craft activities and taste delicious local produce at Harcourt Arboretum, the best collection of trees in Oxfordshire with some of the oldest redwoods in the UK. children go FREE www.obga.ox.ac.uk
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WHERE: Oxfordshire WHEN: Late April Late spring means bluebells. Delight in the magic of these pretty flowers with a woodland walk: Harcourt Arboretum, Nunenham Courtney; Greys Court, Peppard (National Trust); Warburg Nature Reserve, near Henley; Stoke Wood, near Bicester, Shotover Wood, near Oxford. FREE
Families Oxfordshire 9
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Families Education
Oxford High Prep School A Global Education for a Changing World At Oxford High School Prep, we welcome girls from all over the world. But we also prepare girls for a world that is changing more rapidly than ever. All girls learn Mandarin from Reception, and our new Global Studies programme introduces girls to a different country and culture each term, including the fundamentals of language, custom and geography. As a result, each girl is steeped in an appreciation of what it is to be a truly global learner from her first year with us.
Fearless, creative and academic, our girls love learning and each day affords new opportunities to learn through a combination of imaginative play and a challenging curriculum. Add to this our membership of the Girls’ Day School Trust, a family of twenty-five girls schools located all across the UK, and every girl can look forward to a future based on collaboration, kindness and unparalleled opportunity. Bardwell Road, Oxford OX2 6XA oxfordhigh.gdst.net/admissions 01865 515647 prep@oxf.gdst.net
Abingdon Prep School Recently, we had two very special visitors to the Art department at Abingdon Prep ‘Twoo’ the tawny owl and ‘Megatron’ the southern white-faced owl. These beautiful birds provided the inspiration for some fantastic artwork from the boys in Year 5 who drew the owls, paying close attention to the textures and facial details, in preparation for making sculptures. The Year 8 boys also thoroughly enjoyed their latest project where they explored architecture and painted a selection of industrial landscapes inspired by L.S Lowry.
The project culminated in a whole class mural, where the boys used photography to put themselves into the artwork. Striking a Lowry pose caused much hilarity, but achieving a sense of perspective in such a large composition was rather more challenging. The finished product was a masterpiece! Come and see our art department and all that Abingdon Prep has to offer. Book a visit at: abingdon.org.uk/prep
The Oratory Preparatory School The Oratory Preparatory School is a Catholic independent co-educational day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2 to 13 where each child’s resilience, determination and self-confidence is nourished and hidden talents unearthed from the moment they join the school. Renowned for its excellent pastoral care, breadth of education and outstanding facilities including a Theatre, Dance Studio, Music and Art Rooms, Science Labs, two indoor swimming pools and astro turf pitches ensures an exciting, stimulating and hands-on education awaiting your child.
Radley School
Radley offers an environment for boys to grow in self-confidence, thrive academically, and make the most of an enormous range of opportunities. The door is open to any talented candidate, regardless of their means or their background, and we hope that we will have many applicants who wish to join us in the pursuit of excellence. A Radley education is about independent thought and learning with enthusiasm. It is about cultural awareness and academic ambition. It is about learning to live with others and preparation for the world beyond its gates. Above all, it
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Set within 65 acres of countryside with extensive woodland, ponds and adventure playgrounds, Forest School forms part of the curriculum. As well as a vast array of sport, children discover new interests through After School Activities and Saturday Enrichment Programmes. Open Mornings: Tuesday 28 April and Friday 1 May 09.45am - 11.45am For more information and to register please email: c.atkinson@oratoryprep. co.uk call 0118 976 6924 or on our website: www.oratoryprep.co.uk/Open-Morning
is about the core values that will underpin success throughout a Radleian’s life. If you have a talented boy, who excels academically or at music, sport, art or drama then we have places that can be funded up to 100% of the fees. To arrange a visit please contact us: admissions@radley.org.uk or 01235 543 174 or complete the enquiry form on our website www.radley.org.uk/funded-places.
Families Oxfordshire 11
Families Education Ten Great Educational Apps for Children
by Claire Winter Children learn in many different ways including outside of the classroom. This is where educational apps can come in very useful as the best of these engage even the most reluctant learner. As well as being fun ways to learn, educational apps also turn screen time into a positive experience, rather than something you are constantly arguing with your children about. Here are Families top ten educational apps that will keep any child ‘appy!’
Cursive Writing Wizard
(£4.99) by L’Escapadou, Age 6-8 This version provides a UK-friendly cursive font, and is ideal for teaching young primary kids how to write. It’s based upon a tracing system and there are 50 plus animated stickers, sound effects and interactive games that animate letters at the end of the tracing. You can also print off writing PDFs for the kids to practice on and even import their current spelling list.
Safari Tales
(£2.99) by Kuato Games, Age 6-8 Children can develop their storytelling skills with this beautiful and fun animal-themed app. Safari adventurers can explore the Savannah and learn interesting facts about the five baby animals. The game is so much fun they won’t even notice that they are boosting their reading and litearacy skills at the same time.
Endless Wordplay
(Free + In App Purchase) by Originator Inc, All ages This app focuses on learning simple spelling patterns while reinforcing letter names and sounds. Each stage is a different rhyme, with the user spelling three words from the same word family. Once you complete all three words, you are taken to a sentence screen with a silly sentence and cute animation that will encourage and delight the player. It’s free to download but to play more than three levels you have to pay £4.99.
Toca Lab: Elements
(£3.99) by Toca Boca, Age 6-8 This funky app is a virtual chemistry set to inspire future scientists. It introduces your child to all 118 elements of the periodic table as cool, fun characters. It also presents the concepts of what happens during chemical reactions when they are warmed, cooled, combined and much more. Your kids can induldge in exciting virtual experiments that won’t blow up your house!
12 Families Oxfordshire
Hoopa City
(£3.99) by Dr. Panda Ltd, Age 6-8 This engaging app allows children to let their imaginations run wild building cities and towns with a combination of different materials. The game will boost their understanding of mechanics and engineering and also help them develop their problem-solving skills.
The Human Body
(£3.99) by Tinybop Inc, Age 6-8 If you have a budding biologist or child with a ‘why’ imagination then this is the app for them. Explore the human body and learn about how our amazing internal organs perform.
Artie’s Magic Pencil
(£2.99) by Minilab Ltd, Age 3-5 Boost your child’s drawing skills with this creative app. It shows 3-6 year olds how to draw by means of an engaging game in which a monster destroys everything in its path and Artie has to rebuild the world with his magic pencil.
Squeebles Times
Tables (£3.99), by KeyStageFun If you are tired of getting your child to repeat their times tables again and again, then get these lovable characters on hand to inspire your child to sit and practice them. There are several engaging games to play and a training area that also teaches and tests maths skills too.
EduGuru Maths
Specifically created for children ages 3 to 5 years, this app brings maths to life with cute animated graphics which will get them engaged straight away. It concentrates on basic maths skills, shapes, sequences, coins and number recognition.
Toddler Counting 123
Learn to count for kids (Free) by GiggleUp Kids Apps Teach your toddler to count with this fantastic free app. Designed for pre-schoolers this simple game gets them to tap and count a variety of real life objects.
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Families Education
Moulsford Prep School When making decisions about your child’s education, it is sometimes hard to think ahead – how will choices I make now affect opportunities in the future? At Moulsford Prep School, we believe in keeping options open for as long as possible to allow the child, parents and school to see how skills and interests develop. Our broad extra-curricular programme enables boys to try a huge range of activities, to explore unexpected talents and to grow in confidence as they mature. Simultaneously, the academic curriculum
encourages and stretches boys to reach their full potential through collaborative and cross-curricular projects. Teaching is geared entirely to how boys learn best, with active and outdoor learning to appeal to energetic and busy boys. Excellent relationships with a wide variety of top independent senior schools ensure Moulsford boys progress to the very best option for them: Eton, Radley, Harrow, Marlborough, Wellington, St Edwards, Bradfield and Stowe for those wishing to board, and Abingdon, Magdalen College
School, Pangbourne, Shiplake and The Oratory providing excellent day school options. Next Open Day: Friday 15th May 2020 admissions@moulsford.com
Chandlings Prep School Would your children like to ride a pony to start the day? Or go pond dipping to see nature close-up? At Chandlings Prep School, boys and girls aged 2 – 11 discover that learning happens everywhere, not just in the classroom. Activities include swimming, partaking in a diverse range of sports, team-building on the rope course, birdwatching from the hide or being creative in the food tech and DT rooms or mini-amphitheatre. Whatever they do, our results show that children are happy here. Over 80% of our
leavers get into their first choice of secondary school with 50% gaining scholarships. Please come to our Open Mornings on 25th March (Early Years) or 27th April (Meet the Head) or call to arrange your own individual tour. Located within 60 acres of beautiful grounds just five miles from Oxford, we truly are a ‘hidden gem’. Visit www.chandlings.org.uk or contact Mrs Francesca Gentili (Admissions Registrar) on 01865 730771 admissions@chandlings.org.uk.
Cranford House Cranford House Nursery School will move location this September, returning to the school’s main site to become an integral part of the Junior School. From September, Nursery pupils will enjoy a completely dedicated space based with a bespoke classroom design linked to the EYFS curriculum at the heart of Cranford House. This new home will offer superb indoor and outdoor spaces with a large, newly-designed garden echoing the fantastic outdoor facilities already available in our Reception classrooms. The excellence of our current Nursery provision will continue, whilst new ideas which the children will really benefit
from will also be incorporated. Headmaster Dr James Raymond added, “We’re very proud of the all-through school offering we have in place here at Cranford House and this move only strengthens that proposition. It will mean that Nursery School pupils can benefit even further from our school’s excellent facilities and specialist teachers. We also hope this will help simplify drop-off and pick-up times for parents with multiple children in the school.” Cranford House is situated on the Oxfordshire-Berkshire border offering a vibrant education to boys and girls aged 2-18. Rated ‘Excellent’ in all categories, their
co-educational school specialises in academic achievement, outstanding pastoral care and extracurricular opportunities for all. www. cranfordhouse.net
The Manor Preparatory School ‘To challenge, cherish and inspire’ Situated in Abingdon, the Manor Preparatory School is an outstanding independent co-educational preparatory day school for children aged 2-11. The Manor has a wonderfully happy, creative atmosphere where each individual is valued and nurtured to reach their potential. In April 17, The Manor’s ISI Inspection rated every area of the school as ‘Excellent’. Inspectors commented that “Pupils approach every day with an overwhelming passion to learn and develop.”
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Every child is encouraged to push themselves to new challenges, resulting in outstanding results academically, on the sports field, and in creative and performing arts. The school has an excellent record in ensuring leavers move onto the next school that is perfectly suited to the individual. Scholarships, awards and exhibitions feature highly in all areas. The school aims to simplify family life so offer an extensive bus service and fully flexible wraparound care.
Abingdon
For further information and details of our Open days: www.manorprep.org 01235 858462 admissions@manorprep.org.
Families Oxfordshire 13
Families Education
What to Do if School is Not Working
By Claire Winter
When your child is having trouble at school it can be really challenging for the whole family. The first thing you need to do is to try to establish if the problem is with another pupil, their teacher or the school itself. Common problems include falling out with friends, finding schoolwork too hard and being bullied. Talking to your Child
The first thing you need to do is talk to your child to get to the bottom of the issue. Let them know that you care and want to help. Ask them if there is anything you could do to make their situation easier and explain you are going to help them work through their problems. Explore whether you can come up with a solution without involving your child’s school but, if you can’t resolve the problem as a family, the next step is to arrange a meeting with your child’s class teacher. If you find out the issue is bullying, you should always speak to the school. Don't leave your child to sort it out by himself. You can get some good advice about dealing with bullying from the charity the Anti-Bullying Alliance or the NSPCC. Whilst you are working towards resolving the issue, emphasise the importance of afterschool clubs or activities away from school. Having friends and hobbies outside of school will distract them and give them something to look forward to.
Talking to their Teacher
During the meeting, explain the situation and ask the teacher what they can do to help. It’s good to ask when they will update you
on the steps they have taken to resolve the problem. Remember though that some issues may take time to resolve; extra support or help with schoolwork may need to be organised or a friendship issue sorted out. Some schools use planners and diaries to update parents and you could suggest communicating this way so you can get regular updates
Talk to the Head Teacher
If your child’s class teacher is unable to resolve your issue, you can request a formal meeting with the Head Teacher. It’s helpful to keep a record of your dialogue; if you write a letter or email, keep a copy of your correspondence. If you phone or speak face to face, make a note of the date and write down what you both say during the conversation. Your information may help if you need to get in touch with the school again.
Making a Formal Complaint
In the unlikely event that you are still not happy that your child’s issue is being resolved, you can check out the school’s complaints procedure on its website and make a formal written complaint to your child’s Head Teacher and then to the school’s governors or academy trustees. For further information, visit www. gov.uk/complain-about-school
Changing Schools
Whilst no parent wants to disrupt their child’s education by moving them to another school, it is a fact that sometimes your child and a particular school is just not a good fit. If your child still has a number of years ahead at their school, it may not be worth struggling along if their unhappiness is affecting their wellbeing and you are confident that everything possible has been done to try to make things better. If you are considering moving your child to another school, do discuss it with your child’s current Head Teacher first. Bear in mind that the least disruptive time to make a change is at the end of the school year and make sure you allow time to research alternative school options. It’s not advisable to withdraw your child from a school before you have formally been offered a place at an alternative setting. Take heart though. Schools are generally expert at working with parents to resolve a wide range of issues and concerns and their overriding priority is the wellbeing of their students. So don’t be afraid to talk to them – and talk some more, if necessary!
It’s very likely that whatever issues your child has can and will be resolved. 14 Families Oxfordshire
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Thin a, music Easter - Dram ing for & sport someth everyone in
Ox fords h ire
PERFORM WHERE: Oxford: Wednesdays; Abingdon: Saturdays and Thursdays; Didcot: Fridays; Wallingford: Saturdays WHEN: weekly drama, dance and singing classes Confidence building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention. No-obligation, FREE trial sessions. Call today! 020 7255 9120 www.perform.org.uk/try enquiries@perform.org.uk
All Stars Cricket WHERE: Across Oxfordshire Children aged 5-8 years-old can get a great first experience in cricket with sessions accredited by the England & Wales Cricket Board. Help your child develop key skills in a fun and safe environment where parents can join in too. Kids receive a brandnew kit bag full of goodies and attend 8 weekly sessions. Book ahead, sessions begin May 2020. www.allstarscricket.co.uk
Mathnasium Learning Centres WHERE: Summertown, North Oxford WHEN: Monday-Thursday & Saturday Where Maths makes sense! By producing a tailor-structured learning plan for each student according to his/her knowledge and skill level, the Mathnasium Method can help children in Years 2-12 better understand maths and leap ahead. Try the FREE maths skills assessment/trial session. 01865 655968 www.mathnasium.co.uk/ northoxford familiesonline.co.uk
Easter Clubs & Classes Monkey Music Oxford WHERE: Oxford, Kidlington, Abingdon, Bicester, Witney, Thame Award winning music classes for kids 3 months to 4 years. Educational and fun four-stage curricula designed to nurture a lifetime love of music. Weekly term time sessions. Book a FREE trial class. www.monkeymusic.co.uk 01235 519 806 oxford@monkeymusic.co.uk
Better Holiday Club WHERE: Whitehorse Leisure Centre, Abingdon Full days only 8.15am-17.45pm Keep kids aged 5-11 years entertained with a variety of sports and leisure activities, while giving you peace of mind that they’re in safe hands. Children can try a new sport, make new friends and have a lot of fun. 01235 540 700 whitehorse@gll.org www.better.org.uk
Tennis Holiday Club WHERE: Whitehorse Leisure Centre, Abingdon Learn how to play tennis in a fun and friendly environment. Coaches are all qualified experienced coaches who regularly deliver high level training sessions. Prices: Reception/Year 1: £6.70per session; Years 2, 3,4,5,6 and 7+ Half day £16.50 Full day £33.00 01235 540 700 whitehorse@gll.org www.better.org.uk
Holiday Sports Camp WHERE: Thame Leisure Centre Full Day 8:30am - 5pm, Half Days available AM or PM OFSTED registered and accept childcare vouchers. Activities generally include; Swimming, Basketball, Cricket, Gymnastics, Trampolining, Bouncy Castle, Football, Go-Karts, Table Tennis, Craft, Treasure Hunt, Street Dance, Archery and Racquet Sports. Full Day; Members £23.00 Non-Members £34.50 Half Day; Members £14.30 Non-Members £21.50 01844 215607 www.better.org.uk
Wantage Leisure Centre WHERE: Full days 8.30 – 17.30 Runs every school holiday and is perfect for getting your
kids active with swimming,
trampolining, football, gymnastics, tag rugby, arts & crafts and more! Age 1 – 8+ £21.50/half day
£34.50/day www.better.org.uk 01235 766 201
Camp Adventure WHERE: Bicester Leisure Centre 08.30-18.00
For children 5 ½ -11 years to learn new skills, make new
friends and have great fun in a
safe environment. Kids can play football, basketball and hockey,
and even try street dancing and
swimming. Arts and crafts, team games and dressing up! 8.45 - 15.15 £18.50; 08.30-18.00 £27.00 01869 253 914
www.leisurecentre.com
Active Camps WHERE: Oxford High School WHEN: 30 March – 16 April, 8.15 – 18.00
All children (3-14 yrs) have
the opportunity to participate in sports, arts & crafts, and
icebreaker games to encourage
Jonathan Markson Easter Tennis Clinic WHERE: University of Oxford WHEN: 6 - 9 April: 10.00-16.00 Professional coaching on clay courts for children 7 - 17 years old (above beginner level). Focus on a keystroke per day to help improvers and allow experienced players to perfect their skills in groups of one to six players. £315 www.marksontennis.com/ oxford-tennis-camp-easter
Andrew Flintoff Cricket Academy
WHERE: Bloxham School WHEN: 14th - 17th April 9.30am-4.30pm For boys and girls 5- 14 years old. All levels welcome. Freddie’s Lower Order - (5-7 year olds) – focus on an introduction to cricket through fundamentals, gameplay and hand-eye coordination games. Freddie’s Middle Order – (8-10 year olds) –continue their cricket development with introductions to new skills, more technique focus and a progression in to hard ball when suitable. Freddie’s Top Order – (11-14 year olds) – focus on development with a great focus on technical skills. £49.00 per day £160.00 full camp www.activatecamps.co.uk/ venues/bloxham-school/
all areas of development and to
bond with other children and staff; talent shows, dancing, cooking, and off-site trips!
£21/half-day £41/day £180/week
www.active-camps.com
If booking any courses, please mention Families Oxfordshire Magazine.
01865 594325
Families Oxfordshire 15
Preparing girls for the world Pre-Prep School Stay & Play 21st January | 9.30am - 11.00am
www.ohsvisit.org.uk/families
BOYS WILL BE...active
at Moulsford Prep day and boarding school of 360 boys aged 4 – 13 years
OPEN DAY
FRIDAY 15 th MAY 2020 To attend please email admissions@moulsford.com or call 01491 651438 or visit our website Moulsford Prep School, Moulsford-on-Thames, Oxfordshire OX10 9HR
W W W.MOULSFORD .COM
