Parent Talk Nov 2014 Issue by Parent Talk

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Clubs & Classes Schools Events Reviews Essential reading for parents and grandparents in Somerset

November 2014 Volume 19 Issue 10

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- Family tickets to George’s Marvellous Medicine at Exeter Northcott Theatre - Pass the pud word game - Family trip to meet Santa in Lapland - Complimentary pass to Bath’s tourist attractions Facebook “f ” Logo

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Skating on an undercover rink

Carols, plays & festive foodie treats

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so much to do at Hestercombe this Christmas! Go online for more info & to book tickets Group & passport offers available

Parent talk contents

Family Pages Out & About Education, Information Book Bag Education, Information Books Reviews Classified

p2-4 p5-8 p9 p10 -11 p12-18 p18 -19 p19

competitions George’s Marvellous Medicine Pass the pud Visit Santa in Lapland Bath complimentary pass

p11 p11 p19 p20

FAMILY FAMILY FAMILY

SOMERSET families are invited to watch Father Christmas arrive by reindeer and sleigh at a garden centre in the county this month.

Santa will be at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre at 11am on Sunday, November

01458 250461

@parenttalksw and visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk Tamsin Humphreys Juliet Young Sarah Harmer 19 November 2014

Parent Talk Newtons, Churchstanton, Taunton TA3 7QF

Tel: 01823 601086 email: sales@parenttalk.org.uk

Disclaimer: The editorial and advertising content of this publication does not imply endorsement of them by Parent Talk. Nor can Parent Talk be held responsible for any actions or consequences arising from contact between reader and advertiser. Readers are therefore advised to check carefully, any references, professional qualifications and stated membership of professional bodies before entering into contracts or making arrangements to use a service featured herein.

Dear Readers...

Welcome back and I hope you’re getting ready for visiting Father Christmas in his grotto! The man himself is arriving in Garden Centres, Historic Houses and even Aquariums! With so many presents to deliver, he’s not leaving anything to chance! If you’re keen to see him in more of his natural environment, why not have a go at mapping out what you think his home town is like and sending it to Ordnance Survey? It’s one of the fantastic competitions we’ve got lined up for you this month, all taking on a festive theme. Read on and Good Luck!

Tamsin Editor

Competition winners K’NEX Jimmy Clarke, Yeovil Thomas Black, Wells Fiona Haynes, Othery

CHristmas AT THE TOY BARN Toys • Books • Games • Fun • Climbing frames • Parties

The

Toy Barn

01935 815040 toy-barn.co.uk

Sherborne

16 to launch his charity grottoes at the award-winning, independent garden centre in Taunton. Steve Searle, Store Manager at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre at Monkton Heathfield, said: “Once Father Christmas

Father Christmas at the Toy Barn

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Santa gears up for grotto with reindeer & sleigh arrival

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Parent Talk November 2014

Father Christmas in his grotto at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre last year.

has arrived and posed for photographs he will go into his grotto and start meeting the children who are booked in to see him. “This year we’re launching an online booking system so that people can book slots to visit our festive VIP before the big day. People can log on to www.tiny.cc/elmgrotto to book their place. “It would be great if visitors could book in advance for the grotto in order to reduce queuing, however customers who cannot use the advanced booking system are welcome to turn up on the day but should be aware there may be a waiting time.

“A visit to Santa’s grotto will cost £6 per child and includes a great gift, sticker and colouring card.” Proceeds from the sale of tickets to the grotto will go to the garden centre’s charity of the year, Children’s Hospice South West. Santa will be in his grotto every weekend from Sunday, November 16 from 10am until 4.30pm and on late night Thursdays from 4pm until 7pm in the run up to Christmas. He will also be in residence during the Christmas Open Evenings on November 18, 19 and 20 until 7.30pm and on December 22 and 23 from 10.30am until 4.30pm.

For more information, please call the garden centre on 01823 412381 or visit www.monktonelmgardencentre.co.uk

Come and see Father Christmas at the Toy Barn this winter. He will be here between Friday 12th and Sunday 14th December, details are on line at www.toy-barn.co.uk. We recommend booking in advance!

We have a newly designed shop with great new lines of toys in store. Find those well made toys for Christmas this year alongside the traditional favourites. We also have the best outdoor toy shop in the South West; come and try out a selection of climbing frames and trampolines. We have experience from school play grounds to small back gardens. We also make bespoke frames and play houses to suit all budgets and spaces. Please ask our experienced staff for assistance with design and style. Why not have your birthday party at the Toy Barn this year? Parties here are easy and fun. Hire the orchard to play on the play equipment, or hire the cool carts for those budding racing drivers. The pedal gokarts have a minimum age of 5yrs to adult. You can bring your own food or hire our BBQ. Parties start from £5.00 per child per hour up to £6.50 per child per hour. Visit us on line at www. toy-barn.co.uk or call us on 01935 815040 to see the best in toys and outdoor play. Find us on the A30 outside Sherborne at Blackmarsh Farm DT9 4JX

4 Parent Talk November 2014

FAMILY FAMILY FAMILY

Pot Doodles Pottery Painting Parties Pot Doodles is a mobile paint your own pottery business. It is a fabulous creative experience for people of all ages. We come to your home, village hall, or other party venue and set up a pottery painting party. Our experienced and friendly staff will help instruct and demonstrate how to transfer, draw, doodle or dab whatever design you like onto a plate, mug, bowl, money box or other ornament.

Pot Doodles Pottery Painting Party Service includes: ● Instruction & supervision ● Use of materials including glazes, brushes, stamps, sponges & stencils ● Your choice of ceramics from a range of pottery shapes. Each piece of pottery is taken away to be glazed, kiln fired. It is then wrapped and is ready to collect within 2 weeks. Because the pottery is kiln fired it is dishwasher and microwave proof. A Pot Doodles Children’s party costs £12.50 per head per item. A minimum of 8 painters is required for a party. A non-refundable deposit of £50 is required when booking the party. For parties outside the Yeovil area there is a small travel fee.

Many UK parents’ usual role model behaviour switches dramatically as soon as they get in the driving seat according to new research, with one in five mums admitting to road rage in front of their kids and 14 per cent of parents saying they drive through red lights.

Takeaway & create-away pottery painting kits

Try the Pot Doodles “Takeaway & create-away” kit. All you do is pick the pieces of pottery you want to paint from the takeaway menu on the website. We loan out a set of glazes, brushes, palettes and a selection of stamps and sponges and stencils to help you create a picture, pattern or design. You collect the “Takeaway & create-away” kit and paint the pottery in the comfort of your own home, deliver back the

loaned items and the finished painted pottery to be kiln fired. Once that is done we contact you to collect your finished fired pottery. Pot Doodles “Takeaway & createaway” Pottery painting kits offers great value for money, a unique creative experience and make fantastic Christmas Gifts. Pot Doodles School Projects & Pottery Painting Days

Pot Doodles offers discounts for school pottery painting activities.

Visit the website www.potdoodles.co.uk or call 01935 475299 or email info@potdoodles.co.uk

Build a successful business from home Somerset mum of two, Nicola Laing, has beaten the recession finding a way to have it all by working flexible hours and receiving a great income. She created this by grabbing the opportunity to be one of many mums across the UK building a successful business from home.

It was when looking for flexible work that she was introduced to an interesting company offering the chance to take control of her future. “Initially I was looking for a little extra income, however, now this brilliant company provides me with an amazing income working part time so I can spend tons of time with my boys and not have to check the bank balance before making family decisions.” “I always knew money was not the answer to everything; however, this company has enabled me to create those special memories for my family that will last a lifetime.”

HELP

Jekyll & Drive: How Britain’s parents are anything but ‘road models’

The Goodyear Driving Academy study, which looks into parents’ behaviour behind the wheel, also reveals that while driving with their children: ● Nearly one in three parents under 35 and a quarter of mums have read text messages whilst driving ● One in 10 mums and dads have tried to read a map ● Nearly half of parents have eaten food According to the study many parents are unaware of the influence their driving habits have on their children, with over a third saying they don’t believe their driving has any effect on their children’s future attitudes behind the wheel. Psychotherapist Christine Webber, who collaborated on the study, disagrees. “With driving, as with many other life skills, we absorb information and skills and habits from parents. When we are young, we accept what Mum and Dad do in a very uncritical way and what Mum

security it has given me is really quite life changing.” Forever Living is now expanding into Somerset and looking for honest and ethical people who would like to earn between £50 - £2000 per month working part time.

If you would like to get some information about what is on offer then get in touch with Nicola. 07776 301955, Nicola@healthandfreedom.co.uk or follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lighterandleaner

Our health product company is exploding

If you are honest and ethical and want to earn between £200-£2000 a month part time contact Nicola now or follow on 07776 301955 us on Facebook nicola@healthandfreedom.co.uk www.facebook.com/lighterandleaner

they would fail their driving test if asked to retake it ● 15 per cent of parents said their children have criticized their driving ability ● Despite these findings, 40 per cent would still be happy to teach their children to drive when the time comes. Kate Rock, spokesperson for Goodyear Driving Academy, said: “Parents play a hugely influential role in their children’s development and whilst they work so hard to be good role models at home, it seems that they often forget their good intentions once they get behind the steering wheel.” “We have developed a Parent Pack which has been designed to brush up the driving skills, knowledge and behaviour of parents across the country as well as empowering them to play a more conscious role in their child’s young driver education.” The Goodyear Driving Academy Parent Pack can be downloaded from www.parents-matter.co.uk

Friends feud over finances New research has revealed that more than seven million people have lost a friend as a result of an argument over money. The findings, from ISA provider Scottish Friendly, highlighted that just over one in ten people no longer kept in contact with a friend following a dispute around finances.

“Having never had a business before, I had a lot to learn. But the company had excellent training so I was able to learn the ropes and found the personal development very rewarding too. The sense of independence and

or Dad do is often considered the norm, if not absolutely perfect. So if parents want their children to grow up to be safe drivers, they really need to take a long hard look at their own driving behaviour – because their offspring is soaking up what they do like a sponge, and from a surprisingly young age.” Mum of two Jaime Oliver, 35, from Nottingham, admits road rage is a big issue for her. “I drive with my children almost every day, dropping them at nursery and school, taking them to after-school classes or on general family trips. I know I have a few bad driving habits, mainly road rage, and I do sometimes lose my rag with other drivers in front of the children. When it happens they always look a bit shocked because it’s just not the way I usually behave in front of them, and I feel awful afterwards. It’s definitely something I need to learn to control.” The Goodyear Driving Academy study also found that: ● Mums are more likely to have forgotten their driver training, with a fifth admitting they have forgotten most of their training compared to just 13 per cent of Dads ● Nearly three quarters think

Men were found to be particularly prone to losing their mates, with 17 per cent of men saying that they had cut ties with a friend because of finances as opposed to just 13 per cent of women. In addition, the trend does seem to be particularly prevalent among ‘Gen Y’ respondents. Indeed, a massive one in three people aged between 24 and 35 say they have lost friends over money, compared to just nine per cent among those aged over 45. Calum Bennie, communications manager at Scottish Friendly,

commented: “Money can be a very personal and very touchy subject. While friends often want to help each other in financial difficulty, if that show of support is abused, it can often be seen as a breach of trust and cause deep rooted resentment between people.” Londoners seem to be the most likely to fight about money, with just over a quarter having had a dispute with their friends, compared to people in Northern Ireland where fewer than ten per cent claim to have fallen out over money. Bennie continued: “If you do lend money to people or offer financial assistance to a friend, it is important that all parties are on the same page and go into an agreement with their eyes wide open. If you are going to lend money to someone you should make sure they will be in a position to pay it back or at least be sure you won’t miss the money if it is not repaid in the short term. Regardless, helping a friend in financial difficulty may not always be about the cash. Sometimes, advice and support can be as powerful and lending someone money”. Scottish Friendly offers its top tips on how to lend money to friends and maintain a friendship: Only lend what you can afford

Never lend more than you can afford to lose. If the money

does not get paid back, you need to decide if you would be willing to forgive the debt so that you might preserve the friendship.

Everyone should want to be in the agreement

Make sure that you don’t get emotionally blackmailed into lending money. In the same regard, make sure that your support will be well received and that the recipient does not feel embarrassed by the gesture. In both of these cases, resentment could develop and fracture your relationship. Discuss Terms

Make sure you go into any agreement with your eyes open and talk about a repayment plan; lending money cannot be a one-sided process. By laying out the terms of how the financial relationship could work, you can move on with your friendship on the understanding that, as long as the terms are met, there will be no problems between the two of you. Don’t involve yourself after the act

Don’t try and manage a person’s spending after you’ve given your friend the money. Once you’ve loaned the money, then it is no longer in your control. Obsessing over how it’s spent will only serve to cause resentment to both parties.

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

Parent Talk November 2014

Santa at Go-Kart Party SeaQuarium Weston

Santa has confirmed that he will be back at SeaQuarium Weston on a daily basis between Saturday 13th December and Christmas Eve.

Santa at SeaQuarium Child Package includes entry to SeaQuarium, Santa visit, own choice of present, photo with Santa to take home for each child and the Santa at SeaQuarium Adult Package includes entry to SeaQuarium, Santa visit and delicious Hot Chocolate & Mince pie. Santa is thrilled to announce that prices have been frozen at 2013 rates and can be booked online at www. seaquariumweston.co.uk SeaQuarium is open weekends from November 2014 – mid February 2015 and daily between 13th December and 24th December. SeaQuarium Weston is situated on its own unique pier on Weston-super-Mare seafront. The aquarium showcases a range of species

from around the world in 10 different zones including the new for 2014 ‘Fantastic Phobias’ Zone. There are over 30 exhibits including a Tropical Reef Zone with Puffer Fish, Rainforest Zone with Piranha and Underwater Ocean Tunnel with sharks. Looking for a birthday party with a difference? Why

not consider a SeaQuarium Birthday Party! Available for groups of 10 or more children, this exciting party package includes admission to the SeaQuarium, a private decorated birthday party room and a children’s birthday party meal including ice cream. Suitable for everyone from 4 years old and up!

For all bookings please visit www.seaquarium.co.uk/weston or call 01934 613361 or email Weston@seaquarium.co.uk

Personalised gifts P and P are a small business based in Somerset specialising in personalised and printed items for gifts or corporate promotion.

We can supply and print many items including mugs, pens, mouse mats, phone

covers and cases, bags, clothing, fridge magnets, badges plus many more. Just call our friendly team on 01278 785560 or e-mail your requirements to printandpacking@btconnect. com

Party Time at Rug Ratz We all want our birthday to be to be a occasion and a party Ratz will make it a remember.

child’s special at Rug day to

Rug Ratz offers catered parties seven days a week with start times from 11.00am to 4.00pm at just £7.95 per child. For larger parties you can have a private session starting at 5.00pm when you can have the whole place to yourselves. There is a choice of either hot or cold menus, both of which give the children the food they really like and include unlimited free drinks. All you need to bring is a cake. At the end of the party each child is given a party bag containing lots of surprises and a piece of the birthday cake. And best of all, there is no cleaning up to do afterwards. A £15 deposit secures the time and date of your choice

and full colour invitations are provided by Rug Ratz. Booking early will avoid disappointment. Gift Tickets. Pre-paid tickets are now available from Rug Ratz reception desk. These make an ideal gift for all children for birthdays or Christmas.

If you are looking for a party that is really different, exciting, great fun and hassle free then look no further than Go-Kart Party. Nathan and his team offer both boys and girls of 4 -10 years a unique opportunity to race battery powered go-karts around an inflatable mini Grand Prix circuit. The parties are fully hosted and structured and fun games such as cops and robbers, cone dodging, reversing and emergency stopping will give the children an experience they will never forget. Kart speeds and games are tailored to the age and ability of the children so whether they are aged 4 or 10 the kids will have an amazing time and will feel a real sense of achievement when they pick up their certificate and possibly the Go-Kart Party Best Driver trophy at the end of the party! Available indoors in numerous leisure centres and sports halls across Somerset, or even outside at your home, Go-Kart Party is accessible all year round at a venue near you. You can check out the fantastic feedback Nathan receives from parents on www.facebook.com/ GoKartPartySW and for more information contact Nathan on 07703 719 402, nathan@go-kartparty.co.uk or visit www.gokartpartysw. co.uk

Call Nathan on: 07703 719 402

www.gokartpartysw.co.uk nathan@go-kartparty.co.uk facebook.com/GoKartPartySW TA postcodes only

PERSONALISED CHRISTMAS MUG The ideal Christmas present from the children now only £4 + £2.99 p&p (usual price £5 + p&p) Just email us your picture and requested text with the code PTCM4 to printandpacking@btconnect.com offer ends 15th December 2014

RUG RATZ CHILDREN’S PLAYCENTRE Abbey Trading Estate Stourton Way Yeovil BA21 3AR Tel 01935 476989

www.rug-ratz.co.uk

Playgroup Christmas Parties. If you run a playgroup,

nursery or pre-school and are looking for a venue, Rug Ratz is offering special deals for Christmas parties.

Please call Jacky on 01935 476989 for more details.

events

Parent

Got an event to share? Like us on /parenttalksw and tell us all about it.

. MARKETS . THEATRES . FAIRS . FETES . SHOWS . EXHIBITIONS . November – 9th January: Oceans by Tania Kovats. Art

exhibition at Hestercombe Gallery, Hestercombe House, Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton. You don’t need to travel to experience the oceans of the world. Come to Hestercombe and see 365 samples of the world’s seas showcased in glass bottles! Oceans, is a solo show by West Country based Tania Kovats and is only the 2nd exhibition at the new Hestercombe Gallery. The show explores how we experience and engage with landscape and with the sea. 01823 413923 3rd November: Burnham on Sea & Highbridge Guy Fawkes Carnival. 7.30pm.

4th – 7th November: Coppélia. Bristol Hippodrome. The comic family tale of an eccentric toymaker and his mechanical doll. Dr Coppélius, the toymaker, has created the lifelike Coppélia doll and wishes for nothing more than to bring her to life. He thinks his dream has finally come true, but he has merely been caught up in a lovers’ tiff. Love triumphs over all in this comedy of mistaken identity and the finale is a breathtaking celebration of the lovers’ marriage. Enchanting family ballet.

5th November: Hatch Charity Fireworks. Taunton

Racecourse, Orchard Portman, Taunton. One of Somerset’s largest, most spectacular Bonfire & Fireworks Displays, incorporating an impressive flame show! The display, choreographed to music starts at 7.30pm, with gates open from 5.30pm. Hog Roast, BBQ, Refreshments and various attractions. All raising money for St Margaret’s Hospice Somerset and the League of Friends at Taunton’s Musgrove Park Hospital. Tickets available at the gate on the night or in advance via website www. hatchfireworks.co.uk 0844 884 5369.

6 November: Story Time – A Squash and a Squeeze. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath. Fun

storytelling session for preschoolers and their parents. 10am and 11am. Age: 2.5 +. 01225 823409

7th November: Fireworks Display. The Wyvern Club,

Mountfields Road, Taunton. Gates open at 6.30pm, Display at 8pm. Licensed bar, food available. 01823 284591

7th – 8th November: SW Childcare & Education Show.

Westpoint, Exeter. Free Entry. 9.30am -5pm and 9.30am – 4pm. The event is the South West’s one-stop-shop for educational resources, training sessions and expert advice. Essential for anyone with an interest in early years education and childcare. www.childcareshow.co.uk

7th – 9th November: Mucky Pup. the egg, Theatre Royal

Bath. A funny and touching story about a very tidy boy, a very scruffy dog and a very special friendship. The only thing Ben really likes is swimming. He likes the clean, clear water and swimming up and down the pool in his own lane with no-one bothering him. One weekend Ben’s mum borrows Mrs Grainger’s great big, smelly, scruffy dog, Chatty. At first it’s a disaster – Chatty promptly poos on the carpet, puts dog hair everywhere and barks very loudly. But, somehow, a curious friendship is about to be forged…Age: 5+. 01225 823409

delicious treats and unusual hand-crafted items for your perusal. With entertainment and fun things to do for the kids plus offers on garden admission, you’ll take the pressure off the Christmas rush! 01823 413923

James Street, Taunton. A one day special event launching Taunton Literary Festival.

Illuminated lantern procession at 4.30pm with spectacular crane puppets, costumes, dance and live music with Big Noise Street Band featuring students from Stoke St Gregory, North Curry and Heathfield schools.

8th November: Taunton Book Fair. St James Church Hall, St

8th November: North Petherton Carnival.

Procession starts at 7pm.

8th – 9th November: Illuminated Trail at Dunster Castle. See the gardens

spectacularly lit on this self-led garden walk. Don’t forget to bring a torch. 6-7pm. 01643 821314

9th November: Junction 24 Christmas Extravaganza.

Sedgemoor Auction Centre, North Petherton. 10am – 4pm. Kick start your Christmas shopping in giant Christmas market with over 100 traders including handcrafted, vintage, antique, demos, workshops, children’s entertainment, Santa’s Grotto and more. 07906 206188 12th November: Shepton Mallet Carnival. Town Centre.

Procession starts at 7.30pm.

13th – 15th November: The Eleventh Hour: The Great War Project. the egg, Theatre

Royal Bath. The YPT marks the centenary of World War One with this new production. Devised by the company, with writing by Paul Dodgson, these four new and exciting performances are connected by the events of a century ago. The stories, inspired by family histories and both local and international events, reflect the lives of young people affected by WW1 across the country. Age: 12+. 01225 823409 14th November: Carnvial. Town

Wells

Centre. Procession starts at 7.00pm.

15th November: Fireworks at Sea. Weston super Mare.

5-7pm. The best views are from the Grand Pier and entry is ticket only. Each ticket includes unlimited rides for the evening. 01934 646155

15th November: Glastonbury Carnival. Glastonbury Town

Centre. 6.30pm.

15th – 16th November: Illuminated Trail at Dunster Castle. See the gardens

spectacularly lit on this self-led garden walk. Don’t forget to bring a torch. 6-7pm. 01643 821314

15th – 16th November: Hestercombe Christmas Market. Over 60 festive stalls

bustling with beautiful gifts,

17th November: Christmas Crafts at the Seavington

Millennium Shop and Cafe.

22nd November: Christmas Arts & Crafts Fair. Strode

Theatre, Street. Locally produced arts and crafts. Coffee, mince pies and free parking. Raffle to raise funds for The Friends of Strode Theatre. 01458 442846

22nd November: A Celebration of Cranes.

Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre. Part of the annual Christmas Craft and Food Fayre. 2-5.30pm. Free entry and attractions for all ages throughout the afternoon. lluminated lantern procession at 4.30pm with spectacular crane puppets, costumes, dance and live music with the Big Noise Street Band, featuring students from Stoke St Gregory, North Curry and Heathfield schools. 22nd November: Dunster Village Society - Christmas Fair. Dunster Tithe Barn,

Priory Green Dunster. 10am -4pm. Traditional Christmas bazaar, various stalls, refreshments, meet Santa in his grotto. 01643 822089 22nd – 23rd November: Illuminated Trail at Dunster Castle. See the gardens

spectacularly lit on this self-led garden walk. Don’t forget to bring a torch. 6-7pm. 01643 821314

25th November: Macbeth

for six to twelve year olds performed by The Young Shakespeare Company. Strode Theatre, Street. A fast-moving adaptation of Shakespeare’s thrilling drama specially abridged for primary school audiences. 01458 442846

27th November – 14th December: Bath Christmas Market. See p20 for details. 27th November – 4th January: Rumpelstiltskin. the egg, Theatre Royal

Bath. This brand new family musical theatre show tells the dark and juicy tale of Rumpelstiltskin, a strange, scheming creature who saves the life of the Miller’s daughter but demands a terrible price in return. The poor Miller’s daughter is a feisty, funny heroine who must overcome the twin adversities of a foolish father and a frankly rather disappointing king, before ultimately matching wits and wills with Rumpelstiltskin

himself. Can she guess his name and keep her firstborn child? This newlycommissioned fantasy tells of magic, mischief and menace in a thrilling take on the classic Grimm fairy tale. It is a tale of loose tongues, desperate deals and the power of names – all told through deliciously witty lyrics and swinging tunes, accompanied by a multi-tasking three-piece band. 01225 823409 29th Craft

November: Autumn Fayre. Beckington

Village Hall, Beckington. 10am – 4pm. Over twenty stalls of locally produced crafts. Light refreshments served all day. Free entry. 01373 473346

29th November: Christmas Market. Shepton Mallet.

10am – 4pm. Craft stalls, raffle and refreshments. 01749 345351 29th Santa’s

30th November: Grotto and

weekends in Dec. The Grand Pier, Weston super Mare. 11am. Admission £5 with each child receiving a wrapped gift. Come and see Santa in his magical grotto at the end of the Grand Pier this Christmas! Follow the snowy footprints as you enter the Grand Pier, to guide you to the winter wonderland, with its moving penguins and polar bears. You will be transported down an enchanted path

to Santa’s very own grotto. Santa’s reindeer and his elves will be on hand to make sure you don’t get lost. 01934 646155

29th – 30th November: Illuminated Trail at Dunster Castle. See the gardens

spectacularly lit on this self-led garden walk. Don’t forget to bring a torch. 6-7pm. 01643 821314

30th November: Christmas Fair and Santa Fun Run.

West Somerset College, Minehead. Christmas Fair with stalls, refreshments, bouncy castle and kids activities. Marshalled routes 5 and 1.5 routes to seafront and harbour. 01643 706515

Wonderful Winter Walks at Forde Abbey and Festive Christmas Shopping As winter approaches the magnificent gardens of Forde Abbey welcome visitors to enjoy breath taking walks through its stunning grounds. This time of year is magical as the trees lose their fiery autumn leaves and reflections bounce off the structural Long Pond were the Temple Arbour stands sentinel. Bring your family and friends (and even the dog) to stroll along the paths and admire the beautiful scenes. There is even more reason to venture to Forde Abbey during November - as the Gift Shop is packed with festive Christmas ideas enabling you to get ahead with your Christmas shopping in a wonderfully attractive and

relaxed setting. Mosey amongst a hand selected array of gift ideas including arts and crafts, books and luxurious toiletries. Follow up by settling in the atmospheric Undercroft Tearoom to enjoy the delicious home-made festive treats many produced from fresh produce grown in the Abbey gardens themselves. The Special Christmas shopping deal offers FREE admission to the gardens every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout November. Christmas gift shop open 10am to 4pm. The Tearoom will also be

open between 11am and 3pm. On Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays in November, and from 1st December 2014 to 8th March 2015, the special Winter Rate is £5 for admission to the gardens, payable at the Honesty Box by the Shop. (No shop/tearoom open.) Tel: 01460 221290 www.fordeabbey.co.uk

Clubs, workshops and parties with Bodley Craft Bodley Craft is a new studio just minutes from Wellington town centre, with ample parking. We offer a variety of holiday clubs, children’s parties, workshops and courses to suit every ability!

School holiday craft clubs. For 8-12 year olds. December dates are 16th, 18th and 22nd. Days run from 9am - 5pm and cost £25 per child. There is 10% discount when booking 2 days or more. All equipment and materials are provided, but children will need to bring a packed lunch and drinks for the day, and wear old clothes!

Having a Party? We can build the party around your child - whether it’s a pirate or princess theme, cute animals, scary monsters or simply their favourite colour! We can theme the craft (and studio!) to suit you. Prices start from just £10 per head. Please phone for more information, and to check availability. Homemade Christmas Workshop. We run short courses/workshops in

evenings and weekends for adults wanting to learn a new skill. Our Christmas workshop is Saturday 22nd November 9am-1pm, when we will be making homemade gifts and decorations. Lots of ideas, lots of fun, lots of tea and coffee! No experience necessary - come and be creative! Groups and individual bookings taken. Bodley Craft, Bodley Yard, Ford Street, Wellington TA21 9AB

For more information, booking forms, please phone Samantha on 07525 127878, email me on sjr1509@yahoo.co.uk or look for Bodley Craft on Facebook

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

Parent Talk November 2014 7

Book your George’s Marvellous Medicine tickets for The Perfect Family Christmas Treat the Santa Express The West Somerset Railway will be running its programme of pre-Christmas trains featuring both Santa Express and Santa Special operations in the lead-up to “the big day”. These trains are very popular, particularly on the dates closer to Christmas, and advanced booking via 01643 704996 or www.westsomerset-railway.co.uk is very strongly advised. The Railway will also be running other preChristmas trains including Sherry and Mince Pie Specials and Carol Trains. Another very popular part of the buildup are the steam train trips in connection with the two nights of the Dunster By Candlelight event on December 5th and 6th. After Christmas there will be steam trains running daily between December 27th and

This Christmas at Exeter Northcott Theatre, The Birmingham Stage Company presents Roald Dahl’s amazing story about a young boy who makes a marvellous new medicine to cure his grandmother of her terrifying temper. But when his grandmother drinks his special new potion, the most incredible things start to happen and George’s adventure has just begun!

January 1st with the Winter Steam Festival on December 29th and 30th giving an extra reason for leaving the leftovers and the t.v. channels full of repeats for some time out in Somerset countryside in winter. West Somerset Railway Gift Tokens which can be used to pay for travel or for goods from the Railway’s shops can also be purchased from the contacts above.

Festive family tale It’s not long now until the crackers line the shop shelves, the lights go up around the town and holly wreaths appear on our door fronts. You can almost hear the voice of Nat King Cole just thinking about it… And with that magic month just round the corner, the Merlin promises to provide a sleighload of Christmas sparkle this year in their truly festive family show.

Family Tickets are available across all price bands, starting at £27 for 3, and are available from the Exeter Northcott Theatre Box Office on 01392 493 493 or online at www.exeternorthcott.co.uk (booking fees apply). Watch a show trailer online at www.birminghamstage.com

The Fairest Panto in the Land! Following last year’s RecordBreaking production of ALADDIN, The Tivoli Theatre and Producers Ron Martin Management & Born2Perform are delighted to announce SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS as this year’s spectacular family pantomime! This magical fairytale will be brought to life from Page to Stage from 19th December – 3rd January and features a fantastic cast of professional pantomime performers! NICKY STEVENS, of Brotherhood of Man fame, returns to the Tivoli Theatre as the evil WICKED QUEEN, following her hugely successful appearance in CINDERELLA 2 years ago. She is joined by BOBBY BENNETT who returns by popular demand as the lovable NURSE NUTTY NORA. The beautiful ANNA CAMPKIN joins the cast direct from the National Tour of ‘Dreamboats and Miniskirts’ as the fairytale Princess SNOW WHITE, alongside DANNY ROGERS

course, a Full Supporting Cast of young, local dancers and performers! So all the cast are ready and waiting in the wings to amuse and entertain you in what is certain to be ‘The Fairest Panto in the Land’, with spectacular sets, beautiful costumes, laughter by the bucketful and seven of the cutest characters

Directed by

PHIL CLARK Designed by

JACKIE TROUSDALE Lighting Design

in Pantoland! This is sure to be a magical Pantomime adventure suitable for all the family, young and old and promises to be the best value for money this Christmas! Friday 19th Dec 2014 – Saturday 3rd Jan 2015 Box Office 01202 885566 www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk

Ron Martin Management & Born2Perform proudly presents

as the hugely hilarious Court Jester, MUDDLES. The Handsome COLIN JAMES plays the most dashing PRINCE CHARMING this side of Pantoland, and IGOR, the Royal Tax Collector will be played by local performer ALEX ANSTEY. No pantomime would be complete without a touch of sparkle, so GABRIELLA GRACE ELLIOTT will be casting a magic spell over Wimborne this year as FAIRY STARDUST. Plus, of

Cratchit and of course, Tiny Tim. Bringing the atmosphere of Victorian Christmas traditions to the stage with a cavalcade of colourful Dickensian characters and a ghostly quartet of guardians, A Christmas Carol is the perfect way to get you and your family into the Christmas spirit. A Christmas Carol runs from Thursday 4th – Saturday 13th December with tickets from as little as £5. Tickets are on sale now via the Box Office on 01373 465959 or online at www.merlintheatre. co.uk

follows the company’s acclaimed productions of The Jungle Book, Horrible Histories and Danny Champion of the World. If you’re looking for fizztickling fun and wizzpopping magic for all the family this Christmas, then don’t miss George and his Marvellous Medicine! This fun-filled stage show is the perfect Christmas treat for schools and families with children aged 5yrs and above. Tickets range from £12 to £28 (£10 for schools).

C T FE REA 4 ER S T 201 E P TMA AS TH RIS STM CH HRI C

This year the award winning Merlin Theatre Company bring one of the best-loved Christmas stories to life in this musical adaption of Charles Dickens’ classic tale, A Christmas Carol. Keeping true to the original text, it draws upon the themes of time, family and society’s ills in a tale to warm even the coldest of hearts. When the spirit of Jacob Marley, his former partner, tells Scrooge he must face his responsibilities, Scrooge is taken on a very busy night to visit ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future to show him the error of his ways. Join him on this uplifting journey along with some unforgettable characters, the Fezziwigs, Bob

One of Roald Dahl’s funniest and most exciting stories, George’s Marvellous

Medicine

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

19th Dec 2014 -3rd Jan at the TIVOLI THEATRE 2015 Box Office 01202 885566 www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk

West Somerset Railway Between Bishops Lydeard (near Taunton) & Minehead

Festive Season Steam Trains Running on selected dates from November 29th to December 24th Choose from our Santa Express or our Santa Specials. There is a children’s entertainer on every train, and all chidren receive a present from Santa Pre-booking is advisable

JASON TAYLOR Music

MATTHEW SCOTT Sound

TOM LISHMAN

merlintheatre.co.uk

01373 465949

DATES & TIMES

THURS 4 DEC 7PM £5 *FRI 5 DEC 12.30PM £8 SAT 6 DEC 2PM £12 £8 SAT 6 DEC 7PM £12 £8 SUN 7 DEC 2PM £12 £8 THURS 11 DEC 7PM £12 £8 *FRI 12 DEC 12.30PM £8 FRI 12 DEC 7PM £12 £8 SAT 13 DEC 2PM £12 £8 SAT 13 DEC 7PM £12 £8 *School’s performance, teachers go free An Amateur Production by Arrangement with International Theatre and Music Limited

Newly adapted by

DAVID WOOD

“IT’S ABSOLUTELY WICKED - AND NOT JUST FOR THE CHILDREN” THE STAGE

TUES 9 DEC-SUN 4 JAN Box Office:01392 493 493 www.exeternorthcott.co.uk Booking fees apply

FAMILY OF THREE FROM

£27

Group info/arrangements or call 01643 704996 www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

Christmas Treats Weekend at Escot FATHER CHRISTMAS IN HIS GROTTO

Father Christmas will be at Escot in his Christmas Grotto with presents for visiting children (but Ssshh – he may be sleeping in his armchair when you arrive, so you may have to wake him up!). WOODBURNERS, WINE AND FESTIVE FUN IN YURT VILLAGE

In keeping with the festive spirit, at Yurt Village there will be activity stalls with fun things for little fingers to make and decorate and face painting. At the Saxon Village you can make Christmas badges, Christmas wands and Saxon pennies. In the park see the otters receive their Christmas presents and enjoy traditional Yuletide fare in our outdoor Christmas Kitchen and Coach House Restaurant. ARTISAN CHRISTMAS GIFTS

New for 2014 is our special Artisan Christmas market with local quality hand-crafted gifts and produce to help you get some really special Christmas presents for your loved ones. Hope to see you there! There is no charge for Escot Park entry during Christmas Treats weekend but a small fee for visiting Father

FREE ENTRY 22nd and 23rd November 10am - 5pm!

Christmas in his grotto and some activities will be charged. www.escot-devon.co.uk for event details or call t: 01404 822188 Open every day of the year except Christmas Day and Boxing Day. 21st December

Christmas Tea and Fireside Tales with Father Christmas Join us for this very special event just before Christmas. Enjoy Children’s Christmas tea in the Coach House Restaurant and then take part in a lantern procession to Yurt Village where Father Christmas will be waiting in his armchair by the log fire ready to read some Christmas tales to the children. £9 per child (accompanying grownups free). Places limited. Booking required. 4pm. Special child ticket price of £15 also available to include event and Escot park entrance for the day. www.escot-devon.co.uk for event details or call t: 01404 822188 Open every day of the year except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Explore at Dunster Castle There’s plenty to do this November at Dunster Castle and Gardens. Open every day from 10am to 5pm the gardens and grounds boast spectacular views, a natural play area and plenty of places to explore.

Open every weekend 11am to 3pm discover the Castle’s fascinating history,

play games in the Morning Room and follow the house trail answering the questions as you go. Explore the Watermill to learn how flour is produced. Keep an eye out for our fantastic Christmas events including Christmas Through the Ages and Dunster by Candlelight.

Visit our website for special events or visitor information. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle

throwing leaves Dunster Castle and Gardens With an outdoor play area and acres of grounds there's always something new to do at Dunster this winter. Members and under 5s go free. 01643 821314 nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle

8 Parent Talk November 2014

FREE ENTRY FOR ALL : Xmas Treats Weekend! 22nd and 23rd November the Save Date!

www.escot-devon.co.uk 01404 822188 Escot, Ottery St. Mary, Devon, EX11 1LU

the natural place

Parent Talk November 2014 9 EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION Local children star in Help your child achieve News from Stagecoach South West Talent Taunton Showcase If you are looking for confidence building activities, singing, dance and drama lessons for your child then Stagecoach could be the answer. Whether it is learning to speak in front of a crowd, gaining pose and articulation or successfully working in a team, the arts can help your child achieve. Stagecoach Bath run classes for 4 - 18 year olds every Friday and Saturday during term time. Classes for 4 - 6 years:

Twenty-two students from Stagecoach theatre schools in Bristol have wowed audiences in a showcase of regional talent in Torquay in late October.

Ranging in age from 7 to 15, the team attended additional rehearsals in order to prefect their showcase piece entitled, ‘Another Opening of A Midsummer Night’s Love Song,’ a montage of song and dance material incorporating a retelling of the story of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream in a physical theatre style. On Sunday 26th October, they joined lots of other children from across the South West at the Princess Theatre in Torquay to celebrate all the wondrous talent of the

children in our region. Principal of Stagecoach in Portishead and Long Ashton Heidi Hollis said. ‘They worked so hard and the coaches all put in 110% to get their performance as perfect as possible .... it was a night we’ll all remember for a long time and I’m so proud of them for owning such a large stage and showing what they can do!’ She said they will definitely take part in similar events in future. Bristol South West Stagecoach School is part of a network of more than 600 part-time Theatre Arts Schools Worldwide. Early stages classes are available for children aged 4 to 6 and Main School classes take place for 6 to 18 year olds.

For more information on Stagecoach Bristol South West please visit the website www.stagecoach.co.uk/bristolsouthwest or call 0117 953 2500

Friday 4.00pm – 5.30pm, held at Oldfield Park Junior School, Bath, BA2 2JL Saturday 1.30pm – 3.00pm, held at Hayesfield Upper School, Bath, BA2 3LA Classes for 6 - 16 years:

Friday - 4.30 - 7.30pm, held at Oldfield Park Junior School, Bath, BA2 2JL Saturday- 2.30- 5.30pm, held at Hayesfield Upper School,

Stagecoach Taunton is lucky enough to meet every Saturday at Bishop Fox’s school where we have the use of their wonderful dance studio and theatre.

Bath, BA2 3LA

Classes for 15 – 18 years:

Saturday – 2.30pm – 5.30pm, held at Hayesfield Upper School, Bath, BA2 3LA Next term classes start on Friday 9th and Saturday 10th January 2015. We invite prospective parents to enrol their children for an initial 2 weeks to allow them to see how they settle in before committing to the rest of the term. Everyone is welcome to come and experience at firsthand how we can help your child develop basic skills for life whilst having a fantastic time. No experience necessary, just plenty of enthusiasm for singing, dancing and acting.

For more details about our 2 week trial and how to enrol please contact Sandra on 01249 655900, or visit our website at www.stagecoach.co.uk/bath

This term Stagecoach Taunton is bigger than ever and we have expanded to include a Further Stages Class. The Further Stages class is aimed at students who are 15 -21 and thinking about Drama school or University. They join in with our dance and singing classes in the main school but they also have the opportunity to work with various directors, devising pieces and working on solo and duologue audition pieces. Since September our main school, 7 -16 year olds has been working towards a performance about a HAUNTED HOTEL and our Early Stages students 4-6 year olds, have been working towards a performance of WHOOPS A DAISY ANGEL. Last term we had a wonderful performance of an exam show

which covered the theme of ALICE IN WONDERLAND. The students devised their own show and each stage entered Wonderland in very imaginative ways! At the same time they used this work for an exam and congratulations must go to all our students who passed their PAA exams with flying colours. Stagecoach is not just for children who want to go on the stage... It is a school where you can make friends and develop confidence and communication skills. We have wonderful dedicated staff and students and if you would be interested in joining please call Sue Marston on 01823 333176 or 07932 071173.

Children flourish at Stagecoach Stagecoach Yeovil are now recruiting students to start in January 2015. We offer a safe and happy environment where students flourish. No experience is necessary, all we ask is for enthusiasm for the performing arts.

mornings and the younger ones (ages 4-6) meet on Saturdays. Deposit periods are available for youngsters to see what stagecoach has to offer before signing up for the term. . Please visit the website www.stagecoach.co.uk/yeovil or ring the Principal Tracey Richards on 01935 475929 for further details

Our classes are small and run by experienced teachers whose dedication and talents bring out the very best in our students. All teachers have

been CRB/DBS checked and many are first aid trained. The older students (aged between 6 and 18) meet on Friday evenings or Saturday

welcome to your n o i t c e s S W E N

Book Bag NEWS

bringing you competitions, job tasters, boredom busters, interesting facts and everything topical...

The Centenary Anniversary of WW1 Planting 888,246 Ceramic Poppies at The Tower of London

Historic Royal Palaces, the independent charity that cares for the Tower of London, is marking the centenary anniversary of the First World War by installing over 800,000 ceramic poppies into the dry moat over the summer to create a major art installation. The first poppy was planted on 17th July 2014 by one of the Tower of Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Yeoman Warders. In total, 888,246 ceramic poppies will be planted in the moat, one for each British and Colonial fatality during the First World War. A team of over 8,000 volunteers from across the UK have installed the poppies, with the last one being planted on Armistice Day, 11th November 2014. All images are ÂŠ Richard Lea-Hair and Historic Royal Palaces

For more information please visit www.poppies.hrp.org.uk

Book Bag NEWS t breaking its shell? How can you eat an egg witheou Ask someone els to break it. What animals didn’t come on the ark in pairs? Worms. They came in appl es.

WIN

How can you double your money? Look at it in the mirror. How do you spell eighty in two lett ers? A–T

What can you hold without touching it? A conversation. What cat lives in the ocean? An Octopus

WIN

The ever-so-cheeky word game that will have the family in stitches! As players answer questions from 5 categories and pass the jingling pudding back and forth, the pud is counting down the time to the dreaded burp. You don’t want to be the one holding the pudding when the random timer goes off! Quick thinking and obscure general knowledge is required (how many songs are there that contain the word ‘baby’ in the title, anyway?!)

George’s Marvellous Medicine at Exeter Northcott Theatre - Win Family Tickets! by Roald Dahl adapted by David Wood

George makes his marvellous medicine to try and cure the bad temper of which person?

a) His Neighbour

b) His Grandmother

All I want for Christmas is….. Pass the Pud

For your cha nce to win o ne of two Family Ticke ts (4 tickets per family ticket) to th e performan ce George’s M arvellous M of e dicine on Friday 19 De Exeter North cember at 7pm at cott Theatre ,s answer this question co imply rrectly:

c) His Mother

Visit our website www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter by the closing date of 19 November 2014.

Parent Talk have 3 Chrismas Puddings (RRP £17.99) to give away. For your chance to win, find the missing words of the verse below and visit our website www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter by the closing date of 19th November 2014. We wish you a _ _ _ _ _ Christmas We wish you a _ _ _ _ _ Christmas We wish you a _ _ _ _ _ Christmas And a _ _ _ _ _ New Year Gibsons, a UK family run business since 1919 www.gibsonsgames.co.uk

SOMERSET COLLEGE THE LARGEST PROVIDER OF DEGREES IN SOMERSET

Congratulations to all our degree students who graduated last month!

Become our next high profile graduate... UNIVERSITY OPEN DAY Saturday 15 November 2014 / 2pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm Explore degrees further, see our first-class facilities and gain an insight into student life. Media Make-up Fashion Design Surface Design Graphic Design Business Teaching

Engineering Automotive Engineering Construction Health & Social Care Early Childhood Studies

THE MAJORITY OF OUR DEGREES CAN ALSO BE STUDIED PART-TIME

For full details and to book your place www.somerset.ac.uk / 01823 366 331

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Parent Talk November 2014 13

Realise your ambitions with a degree at Somerset College Are you seeking a change in career? Or would like to progress in your existing profession?

If so, then studying a degree could help take your career to the next level. Somerset College is the largest provider of degrees in Somerset, offering a range of specialist fields including Art and Design, Health and Early Childhood Studies, and Computing/Computer Games Development. Our extensive range of university courses is available in a caring and friendly environment with student nurture at its heart. Furthermore, the majority of our degrees can be studied part-time, allowing you to work around any existing commitments. And thanks to our expertise in working

THE SOMERSET SCHOLARSHIP FROM AGE 11 TO 18 with adult learners, you can be assured that we’ll provide all the support you need to realise your ambitions. If you’d like to explore degrees further, then Somerset College is holding a University Open Day on Saturday 15 November 2014 (2 - 4pm).

The Open Day will provide individuals with the opportunity to see our range of facilities, meet staff and students, and gain an insight into student life. Information and advice on Student Support, Student Finance, Accommodation and the Student Union will also be available.

FOR YEAR 6 PUPILS CURRENTLY AT STATE SCHOOLS

To book your place for the University Open Day, please visit www.somerset.ac.uk or call 01823 366 331.

King’s Hall School’s Pelican Nursery celebrates wonderful report Due to our ongoing success, we are able to offer a limited number of Year 7 Scholarships worth up to 50% of the day fees from September 2015. This may be increased to 100% through means-tested financial assistance.

King’s Hall School nursery children Following its opening earlier this year, King’s Hall School’s new nursery for two year olds, Pelican Nursery, is celebrating a wonderful Ofsted report. The Nursery was inspected as part of the registration process, and the setting received the highest accolade possible for a new registration: the whole of King’s Hall are delighted with the findings. The report illustrates the expertise on hand as well

as the incredible amount of work which has been put into the Nursery, before and since its opening, to ensure that the very best care and education is given to King’s Hall’s youngest members.

This provision for two year olds builds on the school’s existing Nursery for 3-4 year olds and staff at King’s Hall are thrilled to be including such an important stage of a child’s development in the provision. There is a real ‘buzz’ on the

back of this report, and staff look forward to working on the excellent start that the Pelican Nursery has already made. The Nursery’s good news is particularly relevant following an article in The Independent, which stated that children who attend a pre-school achieve better GCSE results than those who do not. The information was gathered following a study of around 3,000 children from 1997 onwards.

If you are interested in the Pelican Nursery, or King’s Hall School in general, please visit their website www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk

his tremendous opportunity is open to children who show significant ability and potential in their academic work, sport or music and wish to make the most of their talents in a nurturing and stimulating environment. At King’s Hall Year 7 and 8 pupils develop their skills to confidently embrace all the opportunities we offer. We expect all our pupils to contribute to the wider life of the school: in sport, music, drama and through community responsibility. We provide small classes led by enthusiastic, knowledgeable and caring staff and our children progress to King’s College well equipped for their GCSEs and the exciting challenges ahead. Somerset Scholarships are also available for Year 9 and Sixth form entry to King’s College. Traditional (11+, 13+ and Sixth Form) Scholarships are available to independent school applicants.

Please contact Emma Guppy, Admissions Registrar, 01823 285921 Closing date for applications: 28th November

www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk A Woodard School

nursery DIRECTORY NURSERY DIRECTORY NURSERY

14 Parent Talk November 2014

Bridgwater College Childcare Centre was rated

Outstanding by Ofsted in 2012, in all areas! The Centre is open to the general public and children of students, for children from four months to five years. There is also a Holiday Play Scheme for children up to eight years old.

T: 01278 441270 or E: childcare@bridgwater.ac.uk. www.bridgwater.ac.uk First Steps Day Nursery School (all year from

8am-6pm). For children from 3 months to 5 years. Offering a caring, educational and safe environment for your child. All fully qualified staff. T: Elaine Garland 01749 346733 E: fsdaynursery@btconnect.com Hazlegrove Nursery and Pre-Prep, Sparkford.

Hazlegrove’s innovative Pre-Prep curriculum is outstandingly successful, evident in the increased confidence and ability levels as children move up to the Prep School. The children benefit from experienced staff, specialist teaching and outstanding facilities including an indoor swimming pool and woods for Forest School. “Hazlegrove children are happy children” says Headmaster Richard Fenwick, “we simply want to provide the very best education we can for the pupils in our care”.

For more information, contact Fiona O’Neill on 01963 442606 Jabberwocky Childcare Centre, where children “make

excellent progress… in a calm & vibrant environment”, Ofsted 2012. We are a unique and

fun, purpose built nursery in Street. We offer childcare from three months to school age, from 7.30am to 6pm, 5 days a week. Children can also take part in weekly yoga and football sessions and Forest School at the local arboretum and in our outdoor classroom. We also have a before and after school club, a holiday club for 5 – 11 year olds, and offer a walking bus to local schools.

T: 01458 446999 E: alison@jabberwockynursery.com www.jabberwockynursery.com King’s Hall Nursery.

King’s Hall is a wonderfully traditional yet progressive school set in the rolling Somerset countryside just outside Taunton. Although the Nursery shares the Preparatory school’s superb facilities, it is self contained and operates in a secure and peaceful environment. Log cabin classrooms, vast on-site Forest School and highly experienced, dedicated staff make King’s Hall Nursery the natural choice for children 2 to 5 years

T: 01823 285921 www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk Kingsbury Episcopi Pre-School. With the focus on

the individual child’s needs at Kingsbury Episcopi Pre-School children play to learn and learn to play together. Sessions every morning, and Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Please contact us

kingsburyepiscopipre-school@ gmail.com or tel. 01460 241004. Ladybirds Pre-school, Lydeard St Lawrence.

We are a small, friendly, rural pre-school overlooking

the Quantock hills. We welcome children aged 2 onwards. Open term time only: Mon-Thurs 8.45am – 4.30pm. Toddler group Fri 9.30am-11.30am. T: Ali on 01984 667342 Leweston Nursery and Pre-Prep, Sherborne.

Excellent facilities and extensive grounds with space for adventure, discovery and freedom. On Thursday mornings Parent and Toddler Group. Excellent Ofsted Report. To find out more about our friendly atmosphere

T: 01963 211010 www.leweston.co.uk Little Steps Pre-school in

North Newton village opens Mon, Tues & Thurs 9 – 3 and 9am – 12 on Wednesday. Our qualified staff ensures that every day is filled with fun, with children learning through play. For a visit Contact Helen Barham on 07745 229438 Millfield Pre-Prep School

(Ages 2 - 7), situated in the beautiful Prep campus in Glastonbury. Our aim is to encourage a love of learning through a combination of classroom and outdoor activities, using a wide range of exciting and stimulating teaching methods. Small class sizes and excellent facilities, like our on–site Forest School and indoor swimming pool, support this. Over 20 free after school activities as well as an Early Birds and Late Club. To arrange a visit or a taster session please contact: Hannah Cox in Admissions on 01458 837524

To book our Nursery Directory, please call

Miniatures Day Nursery.

Open 50 weeks per year, we provide a safe, secure and stimulating environment for children aged 0-5 years. Open 8am - 6pm, we provide home cooked food. Education grants accepted for 3 & 4 yr olds. Two minutes from A358. Church Rd, Ilton, Ilminster. T. Marion on 01460 554488 www.miniaturesdaynursery.co.uk Nynehead Under 5’s Pre-school (Nr Wellington).

Village location with large outdoor area. 9 months – 5 years, term time only (at present). Monday-Friday 7.30am-6pm.

T: 01823 664365/07947 663108 www.nyneheadunder5s.btck.co.uk Perrott Hill Montessori Nursery and Pre-Prep.

Given ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted, the Montessori Nursery is situated in the attractive, safe courtyard of the manor house. The Nursery children, aged 3-4 years, have the use of the extensive grounds and facilities of the school as well as having their own outdoor adventure play area. The staff are warm and friendly. Free after school care is available. T: 01460 72051 www.perrotthill.com Pilton Preschool.

Encouraging Confidence, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Compassion, Character and Sense of Community. A long established village Pre-school offering fun and inspiring play based learning & education for children aged 2-5yrs. Monday – Friday 8.45am – 4pm term time, full or half days available.

01458 250461

Sessions include Forest School, Yoga, Music and Movement, Woodwork, Sports and much much more... Please contact us on

01749 899147 preschool@piltonvillage.co.uk www.piltonvillage.co.uk/preschool

for further info or to arrange a visit.

T: 01749 899147 www.piltonpreschool.org info@piltonpreschool.org Queen’s College offers

individual learning. AN INDIVIDUAL focus on learning is keeping Queen’s College Pre-Prep and Nursery at the top of the tree. With small class sizes of 12-16 children, specialist teachers can cater for each individual child’s needs. Rated as outstanding Queen’s College nursery and reception classes are not to be missed. To visit contact

admissions@queenscollege.org.uk T: 01823 340830 Smartees Day Care Nursery. Offering

professional, quality childcare with state of the art security system. Located just 5 minutes walking distance from Yeovil town centre, near Westlands and the Police Station. Open Monday to Friday 8am – 6pm for children aged 3 months – 5 years. 2 Beer Street, Yeovil. T. 01935 411777 Taunton Nursery School,

for children from 0 years. Flexible Nursery Education, 8am - 5.45pm Highly qualified teachers. Spectacular grounds and facilities used by all. Children can attend a combination of morning, afternoon and late club sessions. T: 01823 703303 www.tauntonschool.co.uk

Wellington Prep School Nursery. Attractive, well

designed buildings. Talented teachers. Cheerful children. Proud parents. All this can be yours at Wellington Prep School Nursery and Pre-Nursery. EYFS can be redeemed against our fees. We would love to have your children from 3 years upwards. Please enjoy our website www.wellington-school.org.uk

or call Maria Kerr to arrange a visit.

T: 01823 668700 Little Wellies Term Time

Toddler group. Open to all pre-school children every Thursday morning 9.15-11.15 am, Wellington Junior School Hall. £3 per child and £1 per additional child weekly charge. Contact Maria Kerr for more details – 01823 668700 office@wellington-junior.somerset. sch.uk West Somerset Nursery, Minehead. The West

Somerset Nursery Group, Pre school and Allsorts is a non profit charity, meeting the needs of children and families in a flexible and friendly way. Qualified staff provide high standards of education and care for children aged 3 months to 12 years, open all year round 8am-5:30pm.

T: 01643 708867 Woodlands Pre-school, Ruishton, Taunton. At

Woodlands we offer a wide range of indoor & outdoor activities including a Forest School Curriculum. We accept children from 2 years old. Our purpose built setting enables and nurtures children, encouraging them to grow and experience life with confidence. For more information T: 01823 444302

Junior ISAs just don’t add up for half of parents Almost half of parents (49%) wrongly assume all children can have a junior ISA and 44% either think there are no limits on how much can be paid into one each year or aren’t sure if there are any limits, according to new research from the UK’s leading financial website for women, SavvyWoman.co.uk.

November 1st marked three years since the launch of junior ISAs as a taxfree savings or investment account designed to replace Child Trust Funds, but the signs are that many parents are baffled by the rules and their children could be missing out as a result. Opinium Research questioned 2,001 Nationally Representative UK adults (aged 18+), of whom 1,357 were parents, on behalf of SavvyWoman about the rules on who could have a junior ISA. The findings are: ● 49% of parents wrongly

think all children are allowed a junior ISA; ● 14% of parents correctly think that only ‘children who meet certain requirements’ are allowed a junior ISA; ● 37% of parents don’t know or aren’t sure whether all children or only certain children are allowed a junior ISA; ● Older parents are less likely to give the wrong answer: 45% of parents aged 55+ wrongly say that all children are allowed a junior ISA, compared to 52% of parents aged 35-54 and 53% of parents aged 18-34; ● Parents in the East of England, London and Yorkshire and Humberside are most likely to give the correct answer whilst parents in Northern Ireland and the East Midlands are least likely to give the correct answer; ● Perhaps surprisingly, it isn’t parents of the youngest

children who are most likely to give the correct answer about which children are entitled to take out a junior ISA, but those with children aged 7-10 (23% compared to 17% of parents with children aged 0-3). The research also asked parents whether they thought there are any limits on how much money they can pay into a junior ISA each year. The findings are: ● Just over one in ten parents think there are no limits on how much they can pay into a junior ISA; ● Over half correctly think there are limits on how much they can pay in; ● A third of parents don’t know or aren’t sure; ● Parents of children aged 14-15 are most likely to know that there are limits on how much they can pay into a junior ISA,while parents with children aged 4-6 are least

likely to know there are limits; ● Parents in Northern Ireland, the West Midlands, and North West and South East England are most likely to get the right answer, while parents in London, Wales and Scotland are least likely to answer correctly.

Sarah Pennells, founder of SavvyWoman.co.uk, says: “The first steps of any new savings product are bound to be a little wobbly but by the time it’s reached its third birthday, you’d think there’d be a much more widespread understanding of how a junior ISA works. Our research shows that many parents are still baffled by or aren’t sure about the rules. Junior ISAs aren’t the same as Child Trust Funds or adult NISAs, which may explain why parents haven’t got to grips with them. Junior ISAs aren’t the only way to save or invest for a child, but it’s vital that

parents understand how they work so they can make an informed choice.” 432,000 junior ISA accounts were subscribed to in the latest financial year (2013-14) amounting to £578 million, with three quarters in cash. Junior ISAs work in a similar way to adult NISAs in that interest on cash is paid tax-free and there’s no tax to pay on stocks and shares junior ISAs when cashed in. At the moment, junior ISAs can be transferred between providers to get a better return, however unlike adult NISAs money cannot be withdrawn from junior ISAs until the child is 18 and children can’t take out a new one every year.

SavvyWoman’s Guide to Junior ISA Basics: ● A junior ISA has to be opened by a parent or guardian on behalf of their child but once the child

reaches 16 they can decide where their junior ISA money is saved or invested. ● Parents or guardians, family and friends can pay into a junior ISA every year, up to an overall limit. The junior ISA limit is £4,000 in the tax year 2014/15 but it changes every year. ● Children can have one cash and one stocks and shares junior ISA. ● Money cannot be withdrawn before the child is 18 when the junior ISA matures and it is theirs to manage. It’s automatically rolled over into an adult NISA unless the child withdraws the money. ● Children cannot have a junior ISA if they already have a child trust fund and currently a child trust fund can’t be transferred into a junior ISA, although this is due to change in April 2015. ● Not all accounts accept money transferred from another junior ISA.

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Parent Talk November 2014 15

Creative fun and discovery with Millfield Minis!

Come along with your little one to Millfield Minis, a warm and welcoming parent and toddler group open to all parents with 1-2 ½ year olds in the local area. The group is held at Millfield Pre-Prep in Glastonbury and runs every weekday during term time, from 10.00 – 11.30am.

Millfield Minis is run by qualified and friendly Millfield Pre-Prep staff. Children can get hands on with a variety of activities each term including Forest School in our own woods, gym, sensory play, swimming, outdoor play, creative sessions, craft, visits to see our mini Shetland

ponies and story time. Each session includes snacks and refreshments for children and parents. Millfield Minis is payable termly in advance.

To book or find out more about Millfield Minis please visit millfieldschool.com/millfieldminis

or contact Hannah Cox on 01458 837524 or by email - hannahcox@millfieldprep.com

Nursery, Pre-Prep and Junior Open Morning Monday17th November Please drop in between 9.30 - 12 noon TAUNTON Millfield Minis, our fun parent and toddler

group for ages 1-2½, runs every weekday, 10.00-11.30am at Millfield Pre-Prep. For more information go to millfieldschool.com/millfieldminis or ring Hannah Cox on 01458 837524

An education for life Co-educational day & boarding ages 3-18 01823 340830

www.queenscollege.org.uk

16 Parent Talk November 2014

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

New nursery at Chilton Cantelo

FREE Nursery launch ceremony on 14 November, from 9:30-11:30am.

Friendly and caring at Queen’s College Queen’s College, Taunton is a friendly and caring community where good manners, consideration for others, respect for oneself and a sense of humour are highly valued. Catering for children from 3 to 18 in state of the art educational facilities, Queen’s fosters a genuine delight in learning at all ages. Students are encouraged to achieve their very best academically and the school consistently produces outstanding GCSE and A level results.

A new nursery is up and running in South Somerset! Following the success of Chilton Cantelo School’s addition of pre-prep and sixth form in 2012, the school located near Yeovil and Sherborne is now providing nursery care for children aged 3 and older.

The school is situated in 20 acres of beautiful parkland which is used for activities, sports and forest school for children to explore and develop their learning. With flexible hours to choose from between 7:30am to 6:00pm and an exciting

curriculum, the Nursery enables children to benefit from an excellent Early Years environment. In its most recent ISI inspection report the provision for Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) was praised stating that ‘the overall quality and standards in the newly formed EYFS are excellent, allowing the children to flourish in a secure and caring environment in which they feel safe and happy’. The Pre-Prep is headed by Alanda Phillips who won the ‘Highly Commended’ Award for Early Years Practitioner of the Year from Cognita Group of

Schools. Miss Phillips has also been to the USA to investigate President Obama’s ‘Race to the Top’ education initiative and to share her ideas for improving teaching methods with teachers in Florida. Chilton Cantelo is holding a FREE Nursery launch ceremony on 14 November, from 9:30-11:30am. Parents and children are invited to come along, look around the new facilities and the grounds and attend a Big and Little Play Session so parents can see how the Nursery engages with children. Call 01935 850555 to reserve places.

Individualised Learning. Bringing out the best in your child.

From the Early Years provision in Nursery through Pre-Prep to the older children in Year 6, the Junior School ensures a breadth and richness of teaching, providing a strong foundation. The close family atmosphere and nurturing environment ensure a seamless transition to the Senior School. In the Senior School, outstanding academies in sport and the performing arts engage students and a vibrant co-curricular provision sits alongside a supportive and extensive academic timetable. university. Queen’s offers a full range of scholarships and Students are encouraged to boarding and day provision and bursaries. learn independently and are provided with all the skills For further information contact the Admissions necessary for higher education. Department; 01823 340830 The vast majority of students or visit www.queenscollege.org.uk achieve their first choice

competition

Spanish tapas bar and restaurant, La Tasca, is offering Parent Talk readers the chance to win a voucher for a family meal for four! Valid at all of its restaurants nationwide, this is a great opportunity for your family to sample La Tasca’s delicious menu packed with fresh and authentic Spanish tapas, including 41 gluten free dishes and 34 vegetarian dishes, all of which have been designed by acclaimed Executive Chef, Antony Bennett.

WIN

Calling all artists! We need YOU to design our Parent Talk Christmas Card Every year the Parent Talk team sends out Christmas cards to all our customers. This year, once again, we’re asking you to help by coming up with a specially designed card. We will be selecting two winners, one from each age category, as the official Parent Talk Christmas cards. To enter:

Send in your design in felt tips or paint on an A4 piece of white paper. Please mark your name, age, and address on the back of the picture. The two categories will be for ages: 3 – 7 and 8 – 11. All entries must be received by 21st November 2014.

Come to Chilton Cantelo School, near Yeovil and Sherborne, and join our Nursery launch ceremony and experience our Big and Little Play Session for parents and toddlers! It’s FREE and FUN. CHILTONCANTELOSCHOOL.CO.UK Telephone: 01935 850555 3-18 years Co-ed

As well as being selected as the official Parent Talk Christmas cards, the winning entries will receive 3 sets of cards featuring their winning design for their own personal use as well as a Parent

Talk goody bag to include chocolates and W.H. Smith voucher for £10. We will also feature your design on our website, Facebook page and Twitter!

FREE Big and Little Play Session, 14 Nov, 9:30-11:30am So, get drawing and send your entries to: Tamsin Humphreys, Editor, Parent Talk, Newtons, Churchstanton, Taunton TA3 7QF Good Luck!

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Parent Talk November 2014 17

Wellington– all round excellence If it is academic results you are concerned about for your child, then look no further than Wellington School. We had superb GCSE and A level results across all subjects with 5 pupils taking up Oxbridge places and many more to Russell Group Universities. Pupils study the more rigorous IGCSE in Maths and Science as well as Latin and Greek and the emphasis is strongly academic.

But Wellington has so much more to offer than exam results. With the appointment of our Director in Residence, the performing arts go from strength to strength. From the rip-roaring success of ‘Our House – the Madness Musical’ in the summer to serious Chekhov productions and a huge range of bands, orchestras and ensembles,

the whole school is taking advantage of a range of exciting opportunities. Our superb Chapel Choir performs regularly and our versatile musicians swept the board recently in singing competitions and exam results. We have superb sports

facilities and a specialist strength and conditioning coach who is taking fitness to new levels across all sporting disciplines. Steffan Jones, ex Somerset Cricketer is also developing an elite cricket programme, so Wellington is the place to be for sport. We nurture and teach pupils from 3-11 in the Prep School and 11-18 in the Senior School, and we are justly proud of the rounded, all-encompassing education they receive. We call it “Learning For Life”. Do come along and see us, we would be delighted to show you how exciting our school is.

A full day of festive fun at Hestercombe! A spin on the skating rink, a visit to Father Christmas and a magical illuminated night time walk combine to create a sparkling day of festive fun at Hestercombe this winter. Plus trails around the gardens and a packed programme of carol concerts and performances mean there’s something for everyone to enjoy, night and day.

The festivities kick off with the bustling Christmas market on the 15th / 16th November. Open from 10am each day (and with special late opening until 7pm on the Saturday) the undercover market includes over 60 stalls and with festive entertainment from choirs and young musicians. Father Christmas arrives on the 13th December and will be tucked up in his snug grotto, toasting his toes on the open fire every day until Christmas Eve. Book early for this one – it’s very popular! The skating rink is back by popular demand, silky smooth but without the chill of real ice it’s perfect for novices and experienced skaters alike. Open weekends from 29th November and then every day from 13th December combine a trip to the rink with a walk around the illuminated Winter

Wonderland walk for a special winter treat. Or if you’re looking for a winter birthday experience with a difference why not bring the party skating? Various packages available including one hour’s skating with

snacks, hot drinks or a full hot meal. Prices from £8 per child. Larger groups can book exclusive hire of the skating rink for a fabulous Christmas celebration - popular with Brownies, cubs and youth groups.

For more information visit www.hestercombe.com or contact the ticket office: 01823 413923 info@hestercombe.com

BOOKS BOOKS BOOKS

18 Parent Talk November 2014

Sherborne Prep – so much more than academic excellence

bookreview W Sponsored by Waterstones

Getting Colder

Hold Your Own

Despite being a non-selective school that welcomes families from all walks of life, Sherborne Prep is hugely proud of its academic achievements, with 38% of pupils going on to senior schools with a scholarship or award. In addition, we are also celebrating another year of 100% A or A* grades for pupils who have taken language GCSEs early.

However, we firmly believe that education is about more

than outstanding teaching, small class sizes, extracurricular opportunities, and great facilities. Our approach is to ensure that we encourage, stimulate and build up the confidence in each and every child through dynamic learning. Children joining Sherborne Prep soon become independent thinkers and independent learners, who develop a keen thirst for knowledge and a challenging inquisitiveness. Why not come and

experience our happy and enthusiastic atmosphere for yourself? For more information, or to arrange a visit, please contact Aurora Mercer on 01935 810911 or email registrar@ sherborneprep.org Wide range of scholarships and bursaries available. OPEN MORNING on SATURDAY 15th NOVEMBER. www.sherborneprep.org

By Kate Tempest Published by Macmillan Recently recognised as being one of the top 20 new voices in poetry; an accolade given by the Poetry Book Society and compiled every ten years - Kate Tempest has been crossing the boundaries of poetry, spoken word and theatre with a freshness and fluidity that is made all the more remarkable for her comparatively young age. Having made the nomination list for this year’s Mercury Prize award for her album Everybody Down, the publication of her book Hold Your Own, is also gathering acclaim for its deeply personal writing coupled with a re-telling of the myth of the blind prophet Tiresias. This book, alongside her other artistic creations, is full of originality, deeply personal, complex, beguiling and sensitively intelligent. Brilliant.

The Life and Loves of a He Devil

By Graham Norton Published by Hodder & Stoughton Full of candour, wit, touching honesty and the occasional swipe of sideways sarcasm this autobiography of Norton’s life, loves and experiences is brilliantly funny. It does just as you hope, telling you stories far removed from the everyday and the mundane that you could possibly imagine - the kind where fabulous icons do outrageous things and where show-business is brought to life in all its sequinned, technicolour splendour. But most of all it’s down to the charm of the teller himself - a master of conversational, easy chat, above all filling the pages with a genuine warmth and affection for the world and the people whose stories he spills.

These books are available at Waterstones Bookshop in Taunton. Reviewed by Corinne Marbrow

By Amanda Coe Published by Virago This novel tells the story of a once golden couple; Patrick and Sara, their relationship the stuff of arty broadsheet interviews. Journalists praising their talent, their creativity and the artistic domesticity of their home life. Years later, when she has died, Patrick is left in his rambling home, with a glass of whisky shaking in his hand and the bitterness of rage still spitting out down the nib of his pen - that truths must be faced and life measured for what it really means. It is up to the rest of the family, in particular the two children Sara left behind to become Patrick’s muse, who must make sense of these lives and to ultimately to measure the merit of artistic worth against everything that was lost. This is a searing book about the nature of creativity, and the complications of love. It is full of truth, however uncomfortable, and an insightful, intelligent commentary on illusion, fantasy and the stories we tell.

Happy, enthusiastic, independent

boys and girls ages 3-13



Wide range of scholarships and bursaries available To find out more or to arrange a visit please contact Aurora Mercer 01935 810911 / registrar@sherborneprep.org

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS

Parent Talk November 2014 19

CATHERINE’S MAGIC ENTERTAINMENT

Editor’s choice

For tailor-made Magic Shows, Mini Discos, Games and Balloon Twisting Family Fun For Everyone!! Ideal For Any Party, Large or Small, Indoors or Out 07770 227812 catherine@magicentertainment.co.uk

How Watson Learned The Trick A Miniature Treasure from Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House

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By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Published by Walker Books A charming and exquisite recreation of the miniature Sherlock Holmes story from the library of Queen Mary’s famous Dolls’ House, on display at Windsor Castle. This lavish cloth-bound gift edition faithfully recreates in beautiful detail the Sherlock Holmes story Arthur Conan Doyle wrote especially for the library of Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House in 1922.

MAGIC & BALLOONS Malcolm the Magician Magic and balloon modelling for Schools, Playgroups and Birthday Parties.

Tel: 01823 412750 Mob: 07989 585979 www.malcolm-the-magician.co.uk

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Winter’s Bullet

by William Osborne Published by Chicken House ‘Winter’s Bullet’ is the thrilling new wartime adventure from ‘Hitler’s Angel’ author William Osborne, exploring the widely held view that Hitler had plans for a weapon of mass destruction. Can the world be saved – and will it be down to two brave and resourceful Dutch teenagers caught in the midst of the Second World War? The Wicked Tricks of Till Owlyglass

By Michael Rosen, illustrated by Fritz Wegner Published by Walker Books Till Owlyglass (Till Eulenspiegel) is a boy who was special from the day he was baptised three times. But not in a good way. Not in a way his parents liked. He was always in trouble for his rudeness and practical jokes, and grew up to be the most outrageous trickster in Germany. Everyone told stories about him…and they still do five centuries later. In this wickedly funny book, Michael Rosen retells the best of these traditional German tales which are perfectly in the spirit of the prankster’s wild tricks. The Very Hungry Caterpillar – A Parody

By Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees Published by Little Brown From the bestselling authors of ‘We’re Going on a Bar Hunt’, comes another hilarious parody of a much-loved children’s book, Emlyn Rees and Josie Lloyd also happen to be parents, so they understand the perils of the morning after the night before… This time, in parody of ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’, we follow the quest of one man as he attempts to shake off his hangover, through eating whatever he can get his hands on, and annoying his family in the process. Worst in Show

By William Bee, Illustrated by Kate Hindley Published by Walker Books Albert is entering his pet monster, Sidney, in ….The Best Pet Monster in the World Competition! And he has VERY high hopes. Sidney, however, is a rather gentle monster, who enjoys long soaks in bubble-filled baths. And a champion monster has to be, well, MONSTROUS to win – they must be able to fly, full of parasites, extremely warty and fiercely fire-breathing! Sidney tries his hardest, but Albert soon begins to realise that Sidney’s best talent might not be a very ‘monstrous’ one after all….

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A detached Grade II Listed 16th Century character cottage on the edge of Long Load village. Entrance Hall, Sitting Room with Inglenook Fireplace & Flagstone floors, Dining Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Rear Hall, Bathroom, 3 bedrooms, Enclosed walled garden, Parking & Garage. The house has been well maintained throughout and has gas-fired central heating. Good primary schools at Long Sutton and Ash and Secondary School at Huish Academy. No onward chain. http://www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-45665749.html

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competition WIN

Have a Mappy Christmas with Ordnance Survey and win a family trip to meet Santa in Lapland It will soon be Christmas and cartography crackers, Ordnance Survey, the mapping elves of Great Britain, want to make it an extra special Merry mapmaking Christmas for one lucky family by giving them the opportunity to meet Santa in Lapland before the big day.

For children under-12, to enter simply create a map of what you think Santa’s home town is like and send it to Ordnance Survey. This can be a paper map, a digital one, or even one made in Minecraft. If your map is chosen by the Ordnance Survey elves as their favourite, then yule soon be on a plane to Lapland with your family to meet Santa. Jim Goldsmith, Ordnance Survey Cartography manager, says: “Ordnance Survey is always excited about innovation and what can be done with maps and mapping. This competition is a chance for a new generation of map makers to show us what they can do. We are looking forward to seeing where the elves live, the locations of Santa’s toy testing facility and the Christmas Jumper knitting factory, and what symbol is used for the reindeer retirement home.” THE DAY TRIP INCLUDES: ✱ Return flights from Gatwick, flying out on 22 December at 07:30 and returning the same day at 21:30 ✱ A snowmobile trip ✱ A huskie sled journey ✱ A sleigh ride with Santa’s reindeers ✱ 2-course lunch ✱ Snowman building and snowball fights ✱ Tobogganing ✱ Finding and meeting Santa, who will have gifts for each child For Santa’s Clause (the full terms and conditions) and how to enter, visit: http://www.os.co.uk/santa

Win a pass to BATH’S MAJOR TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

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