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

March 2014 Volume 19 Issue 3

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FAMILY FAMILY FAMILY

2 Parent Talk March 2014

Parent contents Family Pages Events Out & About Book Bag Education, Information Book Review Classified

p2-3 p4 p5-7 p8-10 p11-13 p14 p15

competitions Snail World Great Gizmos

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Tamsin Humphreys Juliet Young Sarah Harmer 19th March 2014

A Countryside Take the Holiday in plunge for Children Today Glorious North Devon

Do you want to try something new and exciting in 2014? Look no further as Children Today has the solution for you – Skydiving!

You could be 10,000ft in the air waiting to jump from a plane to free fall back to earth in what promises to be a thrilling and life changing challenge. You can choose from 3 different types of jump, tandem, static line or accelerated freefall and minimum sponsorship will vary depending on which jump you choose. With jumps taking place every weekend, throughout the country, it’s definitely an event that fits around your busy lifestyle.

Dear Readers...

copy of one of my ‘Editor’s choice’ titles…

We’re back next month and on the hunt for… chocolate eggs! Best wishes

Tamsin Editor

Parent Talk PO Box 889, Taunton TA1 9HU

Tel: 01458 241318 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.

Competition winners Roman Baths and Fashion Museum

Gillian Ensor, Street

Cupets

Kimberley Howes, Epsom Carol Sugden, Wembley Rachael Smith, Bristol T Millar, Northampton Clint Howat, Carlisle Elinor Bevan, Cheltenham

sees the youngest of children being gently introduced to the baby rabbits, chicks and mice as well as to the larger animals. For those who prefer the tractor side of farming there is

a table of toys to engross. Nursery extras from bath toys to bed guards are freely available, as is wifi and for ease of catering, there are chef’s ready meal options all using local ingredients. For the whole family there are fabulous views, wonderful beaches, woodland walks, welcoming villages and great attractions. The cottages are lovely, comfortable, very well equipped, and offer a range of styles and size. For more details please phone 01805 622 542 or see www.torridgehouse.co.uk

Emotional security for children

To guarantee receiving your copy of Parent Talk every month why not take out a subscription for just £17 a year and it will be sent to your door?

The evenings are so much lighter and with the clocks going forward at the end of the month, I feel just about ready to come out of hibernation! As you’ll see from our pages, there’s plenty happening in March. Nationally, there’s Science and Engineering Week, 14 - 23 March and Shakespeare Week 17- 23 March so take a look at our Book Bag pages and you can read all about both of them. To coincide with Science and Engineering Week, we’ve got some great competitions, see p6, so send in those entries for a chance of winning! Our book review on p14 has some fantastic choices this month and ‘Essays in Idleness’ sounds especially beguiling. Follow us on facebook for a signed

Tom Williams, Fundraiser for Children Today says, “We are looking for all you adrenaline junkies out there who are looking to do something fantastic and at the same time raise lots of money for Children Today.” Children Today relies entirely on voluntary donations and with participation in events such as a skydive, it enables Children Today to provide life changing specialised equipment to children living with disabilities throughout the UK. To get involved please contact Tom Williams on 01244 335622 or email thomas@childrentoday.org.uk

At Torridge House Cottages there are 8 cottages around a green in a very family friendly countryside environment with a library, playroom and magnificent collection of small animals plus hens, ducks, a pony and a pig or two. The farmer led involvement with the animals is geared up to children of all ages. Term time especially

The high cost of using solicitors often adds to the severe stress of a divorce or separation. Usually, solicitors charge up to £200 or more per hour and their fees can reduce family assets at an alarming rate. In addition, the mere act of going to a solicitor, and the adversarial process then followed, draw otherwise sensible people into protracted and expensive disputes. One problem arises because solicitors can only act for their client; the husband or wife. This means that they cannot work with both parties together in order to seek a sensible settlement. Instead, solicitors talk to “the other side’s” solicitor, immediately doubling the cost. The process usually becomes contentious as each solicitor has to “win” something in order to justify his or her fees. This process seems

designed to promote ill-will between husband and wife. Whatever good qualities they saw in each other that drew them together in the first place are gradually forgotten. They are urged to emphasise the worst aspects of their once life time partner in order to improve the eventual settlement. Finally, any eventual settlement reached (usually years after they had started) is diminished hideously by legal costs. In other legal cases, there is another party to help bear the costs; in family law cases, the same family bears the costs for both sets of solicitors. Probably the most important result of the current adversarial process is that not only the financial security of children is put at risk but also their emotional security. While it may be impossible to shield children from all the effects of their parents separating, it makes it much worse if the separation becomes a legal dispute with each party seeking a victory over the other. On the other hand, while many people would prefer not to face the problems caused by using a solicitor, they find it too daunting to handle a divorce and related matters on their own. There is another way to seek legal help with divorce and related matters. It is possible to receive advice from lay legal advisers who have specialist

knowledge and experience in the field. They seek to promote a fair agreement between the parties and if this proves impossible, advise on the various steps that may need to be taken. Bridge Lay Law (www.bridgelaylaw.co.uk) is one such firm and offers lay advice on a whole range of matters, including divorce, separation, civil partnerships, and children matters.

Bridge’s aim is to provide an affordable alternative to high street solicitors; an alternative that provides high and personal client care with very considerable savings in legal fees. The local representative in Somerset is Stephen David [pictured], a barrister living in Taunton, with a wide experience of family and commercial matters.

He can be contacted at stephendavid@bridgelaw.co.uk or 07740 786232.

BRIDGE LAY LAW Lay Legal Advisers The affordable low cost alternative to Solicitors

Providing high quality low-cost fixed-fee advice and services in legal matters including divorce, separation, children and representation in court. Local representation in Taunton: Stephen David, Barrister. Mobile: 0774 078 6232 Email: stephendavid@bridgelaw.co.uk Bridge Lay Law www.bridgelaylaw.co.uk 27 Old Gloucester Street, London WC1N 3XX Tel: 0207 692 0893 Family Farm Holidays

In Glorious Devon welcoming comfortable cottages in an idylic setting

Join us on the farm, watch and help feed the animals. Large gardens, play room, games room. Lots of play space. Outdoor heated swimming pool. Providing very special child friendly relaxing holidays for over 25 years. Highly recommended. ‘VisitBritain 3 & 4 star’

Torridge House Cottages Little Torrington, Devon 01805 622542 www.torridgehouse.co.uk

FAMILY FAMILY FAMILY

Parent Talk March 2014

Sunday, March 23rd Spring to the new Food and Farming Day season with £99

breaks at Bunn Leisure

Wincanton Racecourse host their inaugural Food and Farming Day that sees the Paddock lawn transformed into a farmers market, showcasing the very best of what rural Somerset has to offer. Top quality artisan bakers, local meat and cheese suppliers, and around 30 more delicious and innovative trade stands will be selling local rural produce with tasting opportunities.

Over half a million school children spend no time outdoors

to get you on the way to your summer body. If you want to explore, the £17million beach is the perfect place for a seaside coastal walk and there’s plenty to keep you busy on your doorstep, with perfect places to see and terrific things to do. Spring breaks in March and April start from just £99 per family based on six people sharing a two bedroom Bronze caravan. Offer ends March 31. *Additional charges may apply Page 1

Super Sundays

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The research also reveals the injuries and illnesses experienced by parents when they were children were closely tied to traditional stereotypes with kitchen injuries affecting double the number of girls, and competitive sports injuries affecting almost twice the number of boys. As teenagers, this generation also fell foul of inappropriate clothing. Almost 29% of men and over 42% of women admitted to being injured by either stilettoes or platforms! Louise White continues: “It is difficult for parents to get the right balance between protecting their children from harm’s way and making sure they grow up as confident and strong people. Children young and old will always be faced with illness or injuries, but being prepared with trusted remedies, which have been passed down through generations, means parents can have the confidence to let their children experience life, safe in the knowledge that they have everything they need to get their loved ones back on their feet as quickly as possible.”

These figures, from a survey of 2,000 parents questioned on their childhood behaviour and that of their own children, provide a stark contrast to the childhoods of their parents, where spending at least 11 hours playing outside a week was the norm for the majority. While a drop in outdoor playtime is perhaps unsurprising given today’s reliance on game consoles and tablets, the findings, conducted as part of Omega Pharma’s Generations of Care campaign, raise the question of the true impact of ‘cotton wool culture’. Louise White, Marketing Manager for the Generations of Care campaign remarks: “The results also revealed over one in 10 children of today suffer from common illnesses more regularly than their parents. Outdoor playtime is essential for keeping kids healthy and happy with both immediate and long term benefits. Regular time outdoors cultivates creativity and learning; helps manage weight issues, as well as boosting the immune system

to ward off childhood ailments like coughs and colds.” Almost two fifths of parents admitted their children don’t enjoy the same freedom they did as a child, with nearly a quarter refusing to let their son or daughter leave the house without a mobile phone and 18% are so concerned about child safety, their teenagers aren’t even allowed a paper round. Shockingly, the fear of injury and illness is also putting some mums and dads off letting their kids take part in sports such as rugby, horse riding and hockey. So is it any wonder children aren’t reaping the health benefits of fresh air? When injuries and illnesses do arise, it seems parents are turning to the same tried and tested medicines that were used to help them. Professor Dominic Upton, Chartered Health Psychologist, explains why remedies such as Buttercup Cough Syrup and TCP were cited as mums and dads health fail safes: “Childhood medicines, such as the ones your mother used, can evoke calming and positive memories that can help individuals’ better deal with illness and pain. Trust in medicines is extremely important so if you have used a treatment successfully in the past and know that it works, then you will be happier using it on your loved ones.”

New research shows efforts to keep children from harm’s way may be having a detrimental impact on child health. More than a third of today’s children spend a max of 5 hours outdoors a week and worryingly, 7% spend no time outdoors at all.

Children’s Day at Wincanton will be a bundle of fun for all the family with not only a great card of racing but loads of activities to keep the youngsters busy. We’ll have competitions, workshops and games, all of which are free, and Pony Racing will showcase the wealth of young

talent coming up through the riding ranks. Who knows, you might even see the next AP McCoy. Don’t forget about our FREE Junior Jumpers Club for children under the age of seventeen years. Advance tickets start from £12 and can be purchased online at wincantonracecourse. co.uk or by calling the ticket hotline on 0844 5793014.

Sunday, 13th April Children’s Day

From just £99 a family of six can stay for three, four or seven nights during March and April at the south coast holiday park, which offers action-packed and affordable breaks for everyone. Bunn Leisure knows that families have been feeling the squeeze and are fed up with the recent bad weather, so is offering the good value breaks for a cheeky early season escape. There’ll be plenty to entertain you. This season Bunn Leisure is spending a whopping £1.5 hosted by the hilarious Carl million on entertainment Johns plus Cbeebies star Sid which includes Strictly Come Sloane will be performing at Dancing’s Pasha and Katya on Bunn Leisure with his highly April 19, The Big Reunion star acclaimed family show, Sid’s and pop idol Gareth Gates, Show during the Easter the legendary Billy Ocean and Holidays. X-Factor superstar Shayne The Oasis leisure complex Ward. offers fun for all the family There’s a range of free whatever the weather, with indoor action-packed kids’ megasplash waterslides, a clubs, amusement arcades lazy river and fountain island. and organised activities for Fitness fanatics can enjoy tots to teens. Family quizzes the Topdeck Gym* which has and interactive shows such as state-of-the-art equipment and Pants or Prizes game show, a Zumba class on March 14:28 25 TB7839 WR Parent Talk 171.5x130mm_Layout 1 17/02/2014

Professional Dorset chef, Brett Sutton, will be entertaining racegoers in the Dorset Farmers Market’s Mobile Kitchen with cooking demonstrations for all ages. To add to this, complimentary entertainment for children, from ball ponds to obstacle courses, along with free entry for those under eighteen, make this top quality seven race card an experience not to be missed.

The countdown has begun to the new season at awardwinning Bunn Leisure with great deals for a savings on an early spring getaway.

Food & Farming Day A whole host of delicious and innovative trade stands. With Free Children’s entertainment, book your tickets online today.

Children's Day Lots of fun for all the family!

Free Children’s Entertainment

www.wincantonracecourse.co.uk Ticket hotline 08445 793014

events

Parent

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

. MARKETS . THEATRES . FAIRS . FETES . SHOWS . EXHIBITIONS . 4th - 6th Imagination.

March:

Pure

4th – 6th March: Grease.

Regal Theatre Minehead. 7.30pm. West Somerset College Musical Theatre Performance. 01643 706430

6th March: Dinkies Story Time. the egg, Theatre Royal

Bath. Join Jackie and Pooja as they bring favourite books to life in this fun storytelling session for pre-schoolers and their parents/carers. Featuring ‘The Tiger Who Came to Tea’. 01225 823409 6th March: Giselle. The Octagon, Yeovil. 7.30pm. The world-renowned Moscow Ballet demonstrate their continued quality of dance and performance in this atmospheric production. 01935 422884 8th March: Shakespeare Scratch Cabaret. the egg,

Theatre Royal Bath. 8pm. Short, new, thought-provoking and entertaining ideas based on the eternal themes in Shakespeare’s plays. A host of songs, sketches, dance and stand-up with a music-andclowing-inspired performance. Age: 12+. 01225 823409 9th March: Lambing Fun Day. West Somerset College

Farm, Ellicombe, Minehead. 10am – 3pm. Under cover all weather includes cuddle corner, bottle feeding, face painting, exotic animal show and much more.

9th March: Open Cockpit Day & Helicopter Experience flights. The Helicopter

Museum, Weston super Mare. 10am–4.30pm. 01934 635227 9th March: King John. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath. 6pm and 8pm. The world is not as we know it. The green and pleasant land of England is almost a myth. War and conflict is the norm in every country and children are used as pawns in grown men’s games. ‘King John’ is a 60 minute, high-energy adaptation that captures the dynamic realism of this tragic story, whilst holding on to the heart

of Shakespeare’s original text. Age: 12+ 01225 823409 13th – 15th March: The Winter’s Tale. the egg,

Theatre Royal Bath. 7.30pm + 2.30pm Sat matinee. When Leontes, King of Sicilia, becomes convinced his wife, Hermione, is having an affair, he is consumed with jealousy. Ill at ease with the world around him, he lashes out at those closest to him, abandoning his daughter to distant Bohemia. Charming, wild and magical, Shakespeare’s masterpiece is imagined afresh in this bold production by the acclaimed Young People’s Theatre. Age: 12+. 01225 823409

14th March: HMS Pinafore.

Regal Theatre, Minehead. 7.30pm. Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera, performed by Somerset Opera. 01643 706430 14th Flood

March: Somerset Concert. Blake Hall,

Bridgwater. 7.30pm. Charity concert to raise much needed funds for the Somerset community following the recent flood disasters. Already confirmed Toploader with other headline acts to follow. Tickets available from www. seetickets.com All PROFITS will be donated to Somerset CF in conjunction with FLAG. 15th Flood

March: Somerset Concert. Westland

Leisure Complex, Yeovil. 7.30pm. Charity concert to raise much needed funds for the Somerset community following the recent flood disasters. Already confirmed Toploader with other headline acts to follow. Tickets available from www.seetickets.com All PROFITS will be donated to Somerset CF in conjunction with FLAG. 16th March: Lambing Fun Day. Bridgwater College. Fun

filled activity day for all the family includes sheep shearing, sheep dog demonstrations, ferret racing, tractor trailer rides + special guest Tractor Ted. Discount for Parent Talk readers presenting voucher from our Feb issue. www. bridgwater.ac.uk (events)

17th March: Primaryfest – Take Art. The Regal Theatre,

Minehead. 6pm. PrimaryFest is a performance opportunity for primary schools as part of Take Art’s InspirED project. Schools and youth groups have been invited to create and perform a piece of dance

or drama and perform at the West Somerset PrimaryFest platform. 01643 706430.

17th – 18th March: North Somerset School’s Dance Festival. 6.45pm. The

Playhouse, Weston super Mare. 01934 645544

21st March: The Frog and the Princess. Tacchi-Morris

Arts Centre Taunton. 11am. An entertaining and poignant re-telling of the traditional Frog Prince tale by Brothers Grimm. This production looks at what can happen when different cultures meet, using a beautiful blend of puppetry and music that will entertain and delight family audiences. 01823 414141

21st March: Sainsbury’s Bridgwater raise money for Sports relief. 11am. Flash

mob + more, including egg and spoon racing.

21st – 22nd March: Resurrection. the egg,

Theatre Royal Bath. What happens when you live beyond your fate? Find your answer in a startling reimagining of the most vulnerable of Shakespeare’s characters. 01225 823409 23rd March: Castle Cary Sport Relief Mile. Caryford

fitness and Leisure, Castle Cary. 10am – 1pm. 01963 350600 23rd March: Burnham on Sea Sport Relief Mile.

King Alfred’s Sport Centre. 10.30am-1pm. 01278 786868

23rd March: Glastonbury Sport Relief Mile. Glastonbury

Leisure Centre. 11am-2pm. 01458 830090 23rd March: Farming Day,

Food

and

Wincanton Racecourse. The racecourse hosts its inaugural Food and Farming Day that sees the Paddock lawn transformed into a farmers market, showcasing the very best of what rural Somerset has to offer.

24th March: Lord of the Flies. the egg, Theatre Royal

Bath. 3.30pm and 7.30pm. An aeroplane packed with school girls crash lands on a remote tropical island. The young pupils are tasked with maintaining a semblance of order, creating shelter and gathering food, yet their attempts at civil structure slowly deteriorates into murderous disorder and an overriding battle for power. This play provides a close up examination of human

instinct amidst the severest of circumstances. Performed by girls from St Mary’s Calne. Age: 12+. 01225 823409

24th – 25th March: North Somerset School’s Dance Festival. 6.45pm. The

Playhouse, Weston super Mare. 01934 645544

26th – 28th March: Spring Forward 2014. Tacchi-Morris

Arts Centre, Taunton. 7.30pm. An exciting opportunity to see young, inspiring dancers from across Somerset perform on a professional stage. ‘Take Art’s’ successful County Youth Dance Platform brings together young dancers from a range of schools and youth dance companies. 01823 414141 27th Mice

–

29th March: Of and Men. Regal

Theatre, Minehead. 7.30pm. Steinbeck’s own stage version of his classic novel tells the story of George and his big, childlike friend Lennie. They have nothing except the clothes on their back and a hope that one day they’ll find a place of their own and live the American dream. A poignant tale of the extraordinary friendship between two itinerant workers in the harsh depression years of 1930’s America. 01643 706430 27th – 30th March: Spring Steam Gala. West Somerset

Railway, Bishops 01643 704996

Lydeard.

28th – 29th March: Mouth Open Story Jump Out. the

egg, Theatre Royal Bath. Polarbear makes things up; stories, jokes, adventures – a master maker-upper. But where did it all begin? ‘Mouth Open Story Jump Out’ is about the moment that started it all, and how one little decision set off a chain reaction that changed his life forever. International assassins, secret codes, dogeating boa constrictors and much more fill the hole left when a father disappears and a boy discovers a talent for telling tales. Age: 8+. 01225 823409

28th – 31st March: Reenergise Retreat. Lynch

Country House Hotel. Revitalising retreat with a reinvigorating three day weekend of Yoga, Pilates and Meditation classes as well as the chance to try Orienteering, Nordic Walking and Mountain biking. 01643 708815

Our TWITTER Snippets Free training for primary school teachers in delivering #financialeducation from @pfeg_org this February and March http://goo.gl/VTqhwa Expand

Daydreams and Diaries On 5 April 2014, the V&A Museum of Childhood will open Daydreams and Diaries, the Story of Jacqueline Wilson, an exhibition exploring the life and work of one of Britain’s best-loved children’s authors. The exhibition will chart Dame Jacqueline Wilson’s continued and prolific contribution to children’s literature, offering fans an extraordinary insight into her life and work. The exhibition is on tour from Seven Stories, National Centre for Children’s Books, Newcastle. The V&A Museum of Childhood will be the only London venue to host the exhibition. Former Children’s Laureate (2005-2007) and multiaward winning author, Jacqueline Wilson has written nearly 100 books which have been translated into 34 different languages, and has sold over 35 million copies in the UK alone. The exhibition will celebrate these outstanding achievements and look at her work in a wider context, reflecting on the diverse lives of her characters and the impact of their stories on young readers. Particular attention will be paid to some of Jacqueline’s own favourite stories including Tracy Beaker, The Illustrated Mum, The Suitcase Kid, Hetty Feather and Cliffhanger. Visitors can delve into Jacqueline’s life and work and find their own inspiration in the settings where she came up with some of the ideas for her most famous books. The exhibition begins with a replica of the childhood bedroom where she developed her love for reading and finishes with a mockup of the study in which she now works. Also on display will be short stories and diaries written by Jacqueline as a young girl, showing the origins of her talent for writing, while annotated drafts of favourites such as Tracy Beaker and the later work Hetty Feather will give fans further insight in to these well loved stories.

Jacqueline Wilson © Gary S Weekes

Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre, Taunton. 7.30pm. A night of musical theatre featuring the greatest hits from ‘Oliver’, ‘The Lion King’, ‘Annie’, ‘The Sound of Music’ and MORE! Performed by Monkton Heathfield school as part of the Year 11 Drama Festival. 01823 414141

Inseparable from Jacqueline’s books, Nick Sharratt’s illustrations provide the unique visual narrative that has become instantly recognisable to fans all over the world. The exhibition will explore this important creative partnership and friendship which began with Tracy Beaker in 1990. Visitors will be able to see a number of Nick’s draft illustrations alongside drawings he sketched as a child. The exhibition aims to inspire young people, emphasising the imagination and storytelling which is so important to Jacqueline’s narratives and experience as an author, while being enjoyable for both adults and children. Cover illustration by Nick Sharratt taken from The Story of Tracy Beaker by Jacqueline Wilson, published by Doubleday Childrens. Used by permission of The Random House Group Limited.

Head over to http://www.somersetfarmersmarkets.co.uk for a comprehensive list of markets around #somerset

Is it too early to start talking #summerholidays Great day and summer camps here #somerset with @MattRPmob

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

The Easter treasure hunt is on at Monkton Elm SOMERSET families looking for Easter-themed activities to take part in can go on a treasure hunt at a garden centre in the county (April, 2014).

Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre in Taunton is inviting youngsters to search the garden centre for treasure which has been hidden from Monday, April 7 until Easter Monday, April 21. Norma Moore, General Manager of the award-winning, independent, family-run garden centre at Monkton Heathfield, said: “We hope lots of families come along during the Easter break for a hopping good time! “We will be hosting a treasure hunt around the garden centre, which youngsters can take part in. Treasure hunt forms will be available from our reception desk and they include instructions on how to take part. Completed forms can be returned to us and those with correct entries will receive a chocolate bunny to take home and enjoy.” There will be a charge for children to take part in the hunt. Please call the garden centre to check details. Norma added: “This is the perfect opportunity for families to spend some quality time together taking part in our activities during the Easter break.

Parent Talk March 2014

Glastonbury medieval fayre My Noble Lords and Ladies, we once again shall celebrate our Easter Festivities with feats of skill courage and bravery. We bring to you the finest knights from across the Land to dazzle you with their prowess and transport back to the age of Chivalry.

A selection of Easter products available at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre.

“Once they’ve completed the hunt they can stop off at our Four Seasons Restaurant or Pondside Café for some good food. The restaurant serves a selection of fresh soups with warm, crusty bread, as well as a range of hot lunches, which are perfect for warming people up during chilly weather. A children’s menu is available as well.

“The Pondside Café serves a selection of snacks and fresh cakes made on the premises by our highly skilled in-house bakers.” The hunt will take place at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre from Monday, April 7 until Easter Monday, April 21 during normal opening hours. The garden centre will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 20.

For more information, please call the garden centre, which is located just off the A38 at Monkton Heathfield between Bridgwater and Taunton, on 01823 412381, visit www.monktonelmgardencentre.co.uk, log on to www.facebook.com/Monktonelm or follow the company on Twitter by visiting www.twitter.com/Monktonelm.

We are delighted to announce that for our fourth annual outing, The Glastonbury Abbey has kindly invited us back to their prestigious venue! In order to showcase Medieval Life this year we have lots of new treats for our staunch supporters, who braved arctic temperatures last year, to support not only our charity of help for heroes but The Abbey Rescue Fund as well. This year has shown that relationship with our hosts has developed into a complete union with one entrance one site one price! With such a fundamental change we have lots more for the audience to participate with and some new displays not to mention our heroes of yore! The Knights of the Damned whose superb horsemanship will be tested once again to the fullest as they compete with lance and sword to be proclaimed Tournament Champion! To further immerse yourself in

daily life, why not expand your experience and take in the medieval cookery class. Or even try your hand at some willow making. Kids kingdom has also had

a visit from the master of coin with a craft tent, ferret racing, face painting along with the old favourites like have a go Archery and our bouncy castle.

6 Parent Talk March 2014

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

Outdoor toys and more at The Toy Barn

Heritage events National Science and Engineering Week at the Roman Baths

Come and join in the exciting activities we have in store between 14 - 23 March. All

events are free once on site, and normal admission charges apply. Entry to the Roman Baths is free to Local Residents of Bath & North East Somerset with a Discovery Card.

Discover the world of the Romans

The Toy Barn at Sherborne has the best display of climbing frames in the South West of England. It sells a great range of climbing frames, trampolines, swings and slides. Science Busking at the Roman Baths, Saturday 15 March, 5.30-8pm

Explore science throughout the museum and take part in a variety of investigations. Last entry 7pm. Hands-on Science, Monday 17 - Friday 21 March, 2pm4pm.

Get hands on with science and Roman engineering in our object handling activities by the side of the Great Bath

The Toy Barn designs and makes its own hand-crafted play cottages, built from the best materials and designed to fit your space. We also stock a wide range of garden games, trikes and go karts, alongside traditional wooden toys. We have loads of deals for you so come and see what we can offer, or check out our website at www.toy-barn. co.uk. For parties, we are the

Bath Taps into Science, Sunday 23 March, 10am4pm

Join the Roman Baths team at Green Park Station and Bath Royal Why not visit the Roman Baths and Fashion Museum on a joint saver ticket. There are fun dressing up activities at the Fashion Museum - you can try on a reproduction corset or crinoline and other Victorian items.

visit www.romanbaths.co.uk

See more at

www.romanbaths.co.uk www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

competition

6429 Roman Bath Campaign 2014 85wx133h Ad AW.indd 1

24/02/2014 15:49

WIN

Win a Snail World My Living World is the brand that all nature lovers choose. Packed full of supplies and equipment, plus a highly informative guide written by TV nature specialist and wildlife authority, Nick Baker, these kits show children how best to investigate this secret miniature world just like the experts! Discover what makes snails tick with this fascinating nature kit. Learn how to safely keep, feed and study them to see right inside their slimy world. This kit provides hours of fun activity and comes with quality equipment and Nick Baker’s comprehensive guide to snails. This is an ideal kit for young and inquisitive minds or anyone with a passion for the natural world. With this new kit the mystery behind these molluscs is there for all to discover. www.interplayuk.com

place to have fun, from pedal Go-Karting around our farm yard to playing in our orchard play ground. The Toy Barn really is the place to visit this year. The Toy Barn is part of a working farm on the A30 near Sherborne. Look out for our hugely popular Easter Egg Hunt on Good Friday don’t forget to book to avoid disappointment. The Toy Barn, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4JX 01935 815040. Right: Winner of The Toy Barn’s Fancy Dress competition 2013 Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. This year’s theme is Heroes and Villains, raising funds for the Samaritans.

Climbing frames, swings, sliDes & trampolines go kart parties play houses orCharD parties toys & games

Mother’s Day Sunday March 30th

Are you stuck for Mother’s Day ideas? Visit our Pinterest page for some great suggestions

The Toy Barn Blackmarsh Farm, Sherborne 01935 815040 www.toy-barn.co.uk

pinterest.com/parenttalksw

competition

WIN

Win great prizes from Great Gizmos’ 4M Science range The Tin Can Cable Car makes a unique mode of transportation from just a recycled drinks can and rubber band mechanism that can be installed in bedrooms and will run up and down and to and fro.

Every child can create their own magical crystals with the Crystal Growing Kit. Conduct sparkling chemistry experiments at home using all the cool contents provided and display them with pride for all to see!

Parent Talk have 6 x Snail World to give away. For your chance to win, look at the question below and visit www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter. Closing date for entries is 19th March 2014.

Rearrange the words below to reveal a TV nature specialist I K C N E K B A R

Parent Talk have 10 bundles each containing 1 x Tin Can Cable Car and 1 x Crystal Growing Kit. For your chance to win, answer the question below and visit our website www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter. Closing date for entries is 19th March 2014.

When is National Science and Engineering Week 2014? www.greatgizmos.co.uk

Parent Talk March 2014 7 OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT Spring Diary of Stagecoach Yeovil Open Taunton Stagecoach Morning – Friday 25th April

Since I took over we have had performances of Bugsy Malone, The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe and presentations on the themes of Love, The Haunted House and last term a presentation based on technique with wonderful mask work and dances from Les Mis. We have also successfully moved into our new premises at Bishop Fox’s and we really appreciate the wonderful school and its facilities with fab dance studio and theatre. Our big news is that we now have a further stages for older students with an amazing director Kate Littlewood who

has been kind enough to come in and further the education of our oldest students. They have been working on Shakepseare, audition techniques and are just about to start looking at Rufus Norris’ production of Sleeping Beauty which is both funny and dark! This is alongside their usual classes in singing and dancing. This term the main school are working on a theme of Alice in Wonderland for some PAA exams in the summer and also are working alongside this on an in house talent show. This includes Shakespeare, Poetry, short scenes, dance routines

and singing. Outside class, students are auditioning for the Regional South West choir and for the Stagecoach national production of Seussical the Musical which will be performed at the Leatherhead Theatre! Our Early Stages class is working on a theme of dreams and wishes... Come and give it a try! Call the new Principal Sue Marston on 01823 333176.

Stagecoach Bath Stagecoach Bath is now recruiting; no previous experience is necessary, just enthusiasm for singing, dance and drama. Classes are held on Saturdays during term time at Hayesfield Upper School, Bath, BA2 3LA. Early Stages (4 - 6 year olds) – 1.30 - 3.00pm

Students enjoy half an hour of singing, half an hour of dance and half an hour of drama with a specialist teacher and a classroom assistant. Main School (6 - 16 year olds) - 2.30 - 5.30pm

Students in three age groups

enjoy an hour of singing, an hour of dance and an hour of drama with three dedicated teachers. Holiday Workshops

Open to all non-Stagecoach and Stagecoach pupils we offer holiday workshops during the school holidays. Our Easter workshop is from Monday 7th April – Friday 11th April for all children aged 4 – 16. A 50% sibling discount applies to all

our weekly classes and holiday workshops at Stagecoach Bath. Parties

We now offer themed parties for 4 – 11 year olds or Murder Mystery parties for 11 – 16 year olds.

For further information on our weekly classes, workshops or parties then please call Sandra on 01249 655900, or visit our website www.stagecoach.co.uk/bath

Stagecoach Yeovil are pleased to announce their open meeting on Friday 25th April at 5pm at St Michael’s Academy Yeovil. Open to both prospective students and parents you will be able to see what Stagecoach has to offer, meet our Principal Tracey, and team of talented teachers who will be on hand to answer any questions. At our recent inspection, we were delighted to hear that the management of the school, quality of teaching and pupils response were of an

outstanding standard. Our school is open to everyone between the ages of 4 and 18, no experience is needed, just enthusiasm for the performing arts. Stagecoach offers tuition in dance, singing and drama,

small groups rotate throughout the session so by the end they have had an hour’s class in each discipline ensuring every child gets the most out of their experience by building life skills and confidence whilst having fun and making new friends.

For further information, please ring the Principal on

01935 475929 or just turn up to our open meeting on

Friday 25th April at 5pm at St Michael’s Academy in Yeovil. Applications can also be made on-line at our website www.stagecoach.co.uk /Yeovil or by ringing 01935 475929, deposit periods are available on request for your child to try Stagecoach before you commit to a term.

Child performers shine out on screen! It’s not everyday an elevenyear-old gets to star alongside a veteran TV actor, but Stagecoach pupil Pollyana did just that. After several rounds of auditions, Pollyana was cast alongside James Bolan, longtime TV star who currently plays the Grandpa in Grandpa in my Pocket on CBeebies. Pollyana had her TV debut as Belinda-Lucinda, a girl who is determined to spoil everyone’s fun! She loved the time on camera working with all the other child actors – she stars in at least two episodes and we hope the producers will keep her character alive for a good long while! Every week Pollyana joins her friends Grace and Ruby and many other children aged

4-18 at Stagecoach to train in singing, dance and drama classes. This term their voices are soaring and feet can’t stop moving to brilliant musical theatre tunes. Not to be outdone, Grace and Ruby have just appeared in an advert for Scottish Widows on ITV – they got a prime spot during Dancing on Ice and the ad is still airing, so look out for two giggling girls! At Stagecoach we are immensely proud of every achievement our students make, whether on TV like these girls, or the confidence to sing that first solo in front of an audience of parents and friends. If your child could do with developing their confidence, voice, co-ordination and

creativity, give us a ring to find out more about how Stagecoach stretches children in three directions at once! 0117 953 2500 www.stagecoach.co.uk

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

Book Bag NEWS

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

17 - 23 March 2014 WHAT IS SHAKESPEARE WEEK? Shakespeare Week is a new national, annual celebration, to inspire primary school children and their families through creative and cultural learning experiences. The first Shakespeare Week is expected to reach half a million children and their families. The first Shakespeare Week will be celebrated 17 – 23 March 2014, the 450th anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth. WHY LAUNCH A WEEK CELEBRATING SHAKESPEARE? The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust passionately believes that Shakespeare is not only for all time, but for everyone, and that having a great first experience of Shakespeare should be a child’s birthright. William Shakespeare is the world’s most famous playwright, a household name whose works have been translated into over 80 languages. Shakespeare is a named author on the curriculum in 65% of countries, studied by around half of the world’s school children (at least 64 million) every year. He has recently been hailed as Britain’s greatest cultural export, and the foremost reason why people are proud to be British.

William Shakespeare (‘THE COBBE PORTRAIT’), unknown artist, oil on panel, 21 ¼ x 14 ¾ in. (53.9 x 37.5 cm), c 1610 (Cobbe Collection), by permission of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.

courtesy of the Sh

“Neither a borrower nor a lender be” – Hamlet

“This above all: to thine own self be true” – Hamlet

ce Trust

akespeare Birthpla

“We are such stuff as dreams are made on, rounded with a little sleep” The Tempest “Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them.” Twelfth Night “Parting is such sweet sorrow,” Romeo and Juliet

For more information check out www.shakespeareweek.org.uk

Here is a taster of one of the many free resources available for primary schools which has been specially created by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust for Shakespeare Week. For more information check out www.shakespeareweek.org.uk

April 1564

1571

1573-4 and 1576 1575 1577 1582

Follow the Shakespeare Timeline

● William Shakespeare baptised at Holy Trinity Church, Stratford-uponAvon, on 26th April 1564. The precise date of his birth is not known, but traditionally it is celebrated on 23rd April, as it was customary to baptise an infant three days after birth The baptism of ‘Gulielmus filius Johannes Shakspere’ is recorded in the register of the Holy Trinity Parish Church, in Stratford-upon-Avon ● Shakespeare probably begins his formal education at the age of seven. His home is just a short walk from the town’s grammar school and the Guild Hall where his father attended meetings with other aldermen. The school was open to sons of members of the borough (town) council, and it is likely that William enrolled there in 1571 ● Young William may have enjoyed some of the best professional theatrical performances of the day when the Lord Leicester’s Men visited the town ● Queen Elizabeth 1 visits Kenilworth Castle near Stratfordupon-Avon ● Sir Francis Drake sails around the world ● William Shakespeare marries Anne Hathaway from Shottery. On November 28, 1582 the Bishop of Worcester issued the marriage bond for “William Shagspere” and “Ann Hathwey of Stratford”

1583

1584 1588 1590-1

1592 1592-3 1594 1595

1596 1597

1599 1601 1602 1603

● Birth of Shakespeare’s daughter, Susanna ● Birth of Hamnet and Judith, Shakespeare’s twins ● Defeat of the Spanish Armada ● Shakespeare writes his first plays ‘The Two Gentlemen of Verona’ and ‘The Taming of the Shrew’ ● Shakespeare working in London ● Theatres in London close because of the plague ● Shakespeare joins the Lord’s Chamberlain’s Men, an acting company ● Shakespeare writes ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ Sir Walter Raleigh’s expedition to America ● Shakespeare’s only son, Hamnet, dies aged 11 ● Shakespeare buys New Place, the largest residential home in Old Stratford. The years 1594-1599 were very important for Shakespeare. Whilst living at New Place he wrote several of his most famous plays including Julius Caesar. He continued as a principle actor and Manager in Chamberlain’s Men. He prospered financially and made investments in Stratford-uponAvon. In 1599, he became part owner of the Globe Theatre. ● Opening of the Globe Theatre, London ● John Shakespeare, William’s father, dies ● Shakespeare buys land in Old Stratford ● Death of Elizabeth 1 and accession of James 1

In William Shakespeare’s time Shrove Tuesday

was Pancake Day, as it is today. Dinner at mid-day culminated in great mounds of pancakes and apple fritters. These pancakes could be spiced, rose-flavoured, mixed with ale or sherry and enriched with butter, cream and eggs. The recipe below is from ‘The good Huswifes Handmaide for the Kitchin 1588’ To make Pancakes Take new thicke Creame a pinte, foure or five yolks of egs, a good handful of flower, and two or three spoonfuls of ale, strain them altogether into a faire platter, and season it with a good handful of Sugar, a spooneful of Synamon, and a little Ginger: then take a frying pan, and put in a litle peece of Butter, as big as your thombe, and when it is molten browne, cast it out of your pan, and with a ladle put to the further side of your pan some of your stuffe, and hold your pan aslope, so that your stuffe may run abroad ouer all the pan, as thin as may be: then set it to the fyre, and let the fyre be verie soft, and when the one side is baked, then turne the other, and bake them as dry as ye can without burning.

1605 1607 1608

1609 1610 1611

1613 1616

1847

2014

Shakespeare’s company becomes the King’s Men and takes part in James 1 Coronation March ● The Gunpowder Plot ● Susanna Shakespeare marries Dr John Hall ● Birth of Elizabeth Hall, Shakespeare’s granddaughter Death of Mary Shakespeare, William’s mother The River Thames freezes in London ● Shakespeare’s sonnets published ● Shakespeare resides at New Place, Stratfordupon-Avon ● Shakespeare writes ‘The Tempest’, thought to be the last play he wrote on his own ● The Globe Theatre destroyed by fire ● Death of William Shakespeare on 23rd April. Shakespeare is buried in the chancel of Holy Trinity Church, Stratford-upon-Avon

● Shakespeare Birthplace Trust founded to conserve Shakespeare’s Birthplace for the benefit of the nation and to promote the appreciation of Shakespeare around the world ● The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust launches Shakespeare Week. The first national celebration of Shakespeare for Primary School pupils

Pea and bacon po ttage

Serves 4 This recipe is a m odern version of a winter meal. Pe harvested in the as summer will have been dried and a of bacon hung up side in the chimney to be smoked. We allowed you the have added flavour of using chicken st of water. ock instead 250g dried peas 200g bacon 1 large onion 2 cloves garlic 1 litre chicken st ock Salt and pepper Lard/butter for fry ing

✸ Soak peas as inst ✸ Melt lard in a larg ructions the night before cooking ✸ Add chopped on e saucepan

ion, garlic and ba con. Fry off onio they are soft and ns until the bacon has br owned ✸ Add salt and blac ✸ Add the chicken k pepper to taste stock and bring to the boil, turn he down to simmer at and cook until pe as are soft, mushy thick and ✸ Serve hot with br ead and butter

For more information check out www.shakespeareweek.org.uk

Book Bag NEWS it’s National Science & Engineering Week quiz 2014 WHAT IS NATIONAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING WEEK? National Science & Engineering Week (NSEW) is a 10-day programme with thousands of events running throughout the whole of the UK with the aim of celebrating science, engineering and technology and its importance in our lives. With no restrictions on who can organise events, the topics on which they are focused, the audience or the venue, the resulting programme is a hugely varied and eclectic mix suitable for people of all ages and abilities.

WHO ORGANISES NATIONAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING WEEK? National Science & Engineering Week is coordinated by the British Science Association and is funded by BIS (Department for Business, Innovation and skills) in partnership with Engineering UK. The British Science Association is the UK’s nationwide, open membership organisation that exists to advance the public understanding, accessibility and accountability of the sciences and engineering.

ROUND 1 : PHYSICS 1. What happens to the light in a circuit when a switch is turned off? a) The light gets brighter b) The light turns off c) The light turns on d) The light starts flashing 2. What is a natural light source? a) A bedside lamp b) The moon c) The sun d) A torch 3. How often does the Earth orbit the sun? a) Twice a month b) Once a day c) Once a year d) Twice a year

4. You are standing on a bridge above a railway track. When does it get the noisiest? a) When a train is driving towards you b) When a train is driving away from you c) When a train is driving towards you and honks d) When a train is driving away from you and honks Which is an example of a solid changing energy state? a) Water becoming an ice cube b) A snowman becoming a puddle c) A cake mix cooking d) A biscuit being broken in half

ROUND 3 : CHEMISTRY 1. What is the main property glass in windows needs to have? a) Roughness b) Transparency c) Hardness d) Flexibility 2. At what temperature does water start to freeze? a) 10 degrees centigrade b) 0 degrees centigrade c) 100 degrees centigrade d) 50 degrees centigrade

3. You have been at the beach and have a bucket full of sand and pebbles. How might you separate the sand and rocks from each other? a) Heat the bucket to evaporate the sand from the pebbles b) Use a sieve to filter the pebbles from the sand c) Add water to dissolve the sand d) Add water to dissolve the pebbles 4. Which is an example of a REVERSIBLE process? a) Melting chocolate b) Frying an egg c) Baking a cake d) Breaking cornflakes into lots of pieces. 5. Which material is the best electrical conductor? a) Wood b) Rubber c) Aluminium d) Plastic

NATIONAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING WEEK EVENTS ARE ORGANISED BY PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE; teachers, community groups, industry and many more. All of the organisers share an enthusiastic approach to science, engineering and technology and the continuing success of National Science & Engineering Week depends entirely on the incredible efforts of the organisers and the enthusiasm of participants. National Science & Engineering Week events can be organised by anyone.

ROUND 2 : ENGINEERING You are building a model house. Which material will make the walls the strongest? a) Tissue paper b) A cardboard box c) Cotton balls d) A sheet of paper

4. Which of these objects is the oldest? a) Handheld electric calculators b) Microwave oven c) The internet d) iPad

2. Engineers were involved in making and designing which of these objects? a) Your school building b) The sports equipment top athletes use c) The soap in your bathroom d) All of the above

5. In London there is a building named after a vegetable. What vegetable is it? a) Carrot b) Broccoli c) Gherkin d) Cucumber

3. What is the British engineer James Dyson famous for? a) Developing a vacuum cleaner b) Building a sky scraper c) Designing the first car d) Developing the PlayStation 3

ROUND 4 : BIOLOGY 1. Which of these is a living reptile? a) A lizard b) A dinosaur c) A monkey d) An eagle 2. What are the life processes that animals (including humans) do? a) Move, feed and use their senses b) Move, grow, reproduce and feed c) Move and feed d) Move, grow, use their senses, feed and reproduce.

4. When do plants grow best? a) When they have water, sun and air b) When they have water and sun c) When they have water, sun, minerals and air d) When they have water and soil 5. What does exercise make your heart do? a) Pump less often b) Pump more often c) Each pump lasts for more time d) Each pump lasts for less time

3. What does a tadpole become? a) A butterfly b) A frog c) A chicken d) A dog

For answers to all of the above, go to www.parenttalk.org.uk

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Parent Talk March 2014 11

Hazlegrove A New Nursery Festival of Music

After the huge success of Hazlegrove’s Festival of literature last year, the school is now busy organising a Festival of Music which will take place between 13 and 22 March. Staff and pupils are hoping to be able to share their passion for music with children and their parents from local schools and the wider community.

Sessions will range from those laid on for younger children (including those of nursery age) with events such as the Junk Orchestra Workshop, the Sounds Roadshow and special sessions with the school’s

own immensely talented teacher Stephen Marquiss, to a Jazz night including the school’s swing band and the RAF Squadronaires – one of the UK’s finest big bands. There will be workshops for string players with Graffiti Classics whose aim is “to make classical music wickedly funny and fantastically exhilarating for everyone”, for singers with Nigel Perrin who will be working with children to put on a performance of Captain Noah and His Floating Zoo and for percussionists with Jayne Obradovic from Wells Cathedral School. Children will also have

competition

WIN

WIN a distance learning course worth up to £289 Many people dream of a new career, of being able to achieve the new skills needed to break into a particular sector they have always wanted to work in. UK leading distant learning college is running a competition with the opportunity to give one applicant the chance to do just that.

My Distance Learning College are offering one lucky winner the chance to gain a qualification for free in their retweet and follow Twitter competition, which starts today. The competition winner can choose from one of five courses worth up to £289, including: Forensic Science, Dog Grooming, Garden Design, Interior Design, Events Management and Wedding Planning. My Distance Learning College offers professional online courses to study in your own time at home, whether you want to learn a new subject in 6 weeks or 12 months, the learning experience is completely tailored to you. Of course, My Distance Learning College isn’t

just giving away free qualifications, if you really want to put in the work to gain a new skill then this competition is a great way to improve your employability by adding a new skill to your CV. The winner will receive all course materials through the post with access to the online student portal which includes full tutor communication and support. There are no entry requirements for any of the chosen prizes, as long as you have a basic level of literacy you will be able to succeed in these qualifications. To enter the competition visit the My Distance Learning College Twitter page @Mydistancelearn then retweet the competition picture and follow the page to be automatically entered into this career changing competition. For more information on each of the courses visit the My Distance Learning website. The competition closes on 14th March, so hurry; you don’t want to miss out!

an opportunity to try out new instruments under the guidance of the Hazlegrove peripatetic music teachers, enjoy concerts, quizzes, an evening with Henry Olonga (singer and former Zimbabwean Test cricketer) and an evening in the style of “Friday Night is Music Night”. “I am absolutely thrilled that we are having a Festival of Music. We love music at Hazlegrove, and this is an incredible opportunity to encourage the children and for them to see how much pleasure music can bring to their lives. It is a chance to work with top professional musicians in workshop environments and to learn and be inspired. We are delighted that BBC Radio 2 presenter, Ken Bruce is our patron. He has such a wonderful appreciation of music and we are excited to be able to share our love of music with him” says Director of Music Yvonne Fawbert. More information is available on Hazlegrove’s website and if you would like to get involved, please call their school office on 01963 440314.

Set in twenty acres of beautiful parkland, Chilton Cantelo School is located only minutes away from Sherborne and Yeovil. Chilton Cantelo is a day and boarding school, taking in boys and girls aged 3-18 years.

The school will soon be extending its range and opening an all-year Nursery starting in September 2014. Creating a happy and caring environment is top priority for the school and the Nursery will now help lay a firm foundation for each child’s development and future learning. As the children move into Pre

Prep, they will become part of the school’s close family community. Early Years stage pupils are taken to the parkland area for regular nature rambles, wildlife observation, planting and gardening and forest school projects. Chilton Cantelo provides an Individualised Learning approach from Early Years to Sixth Form in which the teachers create tailored programmes of learning for each pupil. Appropriate targets are set after regular reviews to ensure each pupil progresses with the right amount of challenge.

You are invited to visit the school and attend the upcoming children’s Tea Party, an Open Day, a Forest School Taster Morning or arrange an informal tour to meet your schedule. Call on 01935 850555 or go to chiltoncanteloschool.co.uk for further details.

Millfield Holiday Courses New Courses for 2014!

The Millfield Holiday Courses welcome children to come together for an exciting mix of fun, laughter and new experiences. There are a variety of courses on offer at Millfield this Easter and summer which are available for children aged 2 - 16 years. We offer a number of sports courses from Football to Badminton, Cricket to Tennis and the Millfield Rugby Course, run by former England International, John Mallet, who is experienced in teaching in the school environment as a rugby coach at Millfield School. New for 2014, we are offering Athletics, Netball and Hockey courses, with the Hockey also available on a residential basis for older children. The Multi-Activity course is an excellent choice for children who want an all round experience of the activities Millfield has to offer, with use of the superb facilities, activities range from a variety of sporting and non-sporting

activities which include arts and crafts, swimming, trampolining, t-shirt painting and many more. Mini-Multis is a course for children aged 2 - 4 years, promoting fun and enjoyment in a safe environment. The course is led by staff with experience specific to this age group and includes: Messy play; Musical activities;

Forest School fun; Small world play; Painting; Dance; Songs; Stories, and more.

Easter courses:

Multi-Activity (5-14), Football (5-14), Netball (7-14)

Summer courses:

Mini-Multis (2-4), Multi-Activity (5-14), Athletics (8-16), Badminton (8-16), Cricket (7-14), Football (5-14), Netball (7-14), Hockey (7-14), Tennis (8-14), Rugby (8-14)

01458 444 320 info@millfieldenterprises.com www.millfieldenterprises.com

Providing space to achieve potential. Come along to Chilton Cantelo School for a free morning of fun for Nursery and Pre Prep children. Parents and children will enjoy a tea party, arts and crafts and outdoor games. Alice in Wonderland fancy dress is optional. To book your FREE place Open Days call us now. Individualised Learning... bringing out the best in our pupils.

chiltoncanteloschool.co.uk 01935 850555

7 March (Mad Hatter’s Tea Party) 20 March (Senior School and Sixth Form) 21 March (Whole School)

Near Yeovil and Sherborne

MILLFIELD HOLIDAY COURSES

MAKING HOLIDAYS FUN!

EASTER HOLIDAY COURSES:

Multi-Activity 5-14 yrs Football 5-14 yrs Netball 7-14 yrs

SUMMER HOLIDAY COURSES:

Mini-Multis 2-4 yrs Multi-Activity 5-14 yrs Football 5-14 yrs Cricket 7-14 yrs Hockey 7-14 yrs Netball 7-14 yrs Tennis 8-14 yrs Rugby 8-14 yrs Athletics 8-16 yrs Badminton 8-16 yrs

01458 444 320 www.millfieldenterprises.com

nursery DIRECTORY 12 Parent Talk March 2014

ALBY’S CHILDCARE,

Albermarle Centre, Albermarle Road, Taunton. Providing safe, high quality care and learning opportunities for children aged 2-4 years. Open 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday.

T: 01823 448926 E: albys@albermarle-centre.co.uk 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 BRIGHT STARS CHILDCARE LTD, Green

Lane, Frome BA11 4JW. New setting, caring for children from 3 mnths to 5 yrs. Lots of new and exciting activities and learning opportunities for all. T: 01373 451619 or E: childcare@brightstars.org.uk www.brightstars.org.uk CHEEKIE MONKEYS ILMINSTER. Ilminster. A

friendly, calm and nurturing setting offering full time day care (8am-6pm) for children aged 0-5. We have highly experienced staff and excellent facilities in our baby and pre-school rooms, plus an amazing garden.

T: Lesley / Ali 01460 52457 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

NURSERY DIRECTORY NURSERY

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 3 to 5 years. And from January 2014 King’s Hall are offering places for 2 year olds.

T: 01823 285921 www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk LADYBIRDS PRE-SCHOOL,

Lydeard St Lawrence. We are a small, friendly, rural pre-school overlooking the Quantock hills. We welcome children aged 2½ onwards. Open term time only: Mon-Thurs 8.45am-2.45pm. Toddler group Fri 9.30-11.30am.

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 Toddler Tunes and Parent and Toddler Group. Excellent Ofsted Report. To find out more about our friendly atmosphere

T: 01963 211010 www.leweston.co.uk 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 NOAH’S ARK PRE-SCHOOL, situated on

the grounds of St Joseph and St Teresa Catholic School, Lover’s Walk, Wells. Our dedicated staff team have an holistic approach to every individual child and their family. We offer a happy, safe and stimulating environment where children can learn

respect for themselves and each other, whilst taking part in a balanced program of activities ranging from gardening to yoga. Open 9am - 3pm term time only. Ages 2-5 years.

T: 07773 688 943 for more information. www.noahsarkpreschoolwells.com 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

We believe that each and every child is unique, special and full of potential. Therefore we strive to inspire in all a sense of: confidence, creativity, critical thinking, compassion, character and community. Open Mon-Fri 9.00am - 3.30pm term time, various sessions available. Breakfast club & after school club soon to be offered. Please contact us for further information or to arrange a visit. T: 01749 899147 www.piltonpreschool.org info@piltonpreschool.org QUEEN’S COLLEGE NURSERY 3-4 yrs. Our

friendly nursery provides outstanding care and education with excellent facilities for all our young children. Staff are all highly qualified, experienced and caring. The Nursery is situated within our Pre-Prep dept and has its own safe, secure, child centred garden and all weather covered area. Outdoor play and learning is a key element of our education at Queen’s and children enjoy weekly Forest school sessions both in our school grounds and in local woods. Achieving ‘Outstanding’ in all areas by OFSTED we offer the very best start in early years education, encouraging all our children to happily grow and develop in independence and confidence. 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

To book our Nursery Directory, please call

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 THE PARK SCHOOL NURSERY, YEOVIL.

Give your child the best start in our friendly, professional Nursery, catering for children from 3 years in a caring, Christian environment. Full or part-time. Outstanding OFSTED report. Nursery Funding vouchers accepted. Visit our School – you will receive a warm welcome. For further information PHONE 01935 423514

THE SECRET GARDEN PRESCHOOL AND NURSERY

for children from 5 months – 5 years, 51 weeks, 8am-6pm. Creative and outside play, in a nurturing, fun environment. Forest school. You are welcome to visit us any time. Early years funding and 2 year old funding available. Find us at: The Barns, Brinsea Road, Congresbury, BS49 5JL T: Stefanie or Emma on 01934 853350 www.secretgardennursery.co.uk WELLINGTON JUNIOR SCHOOL NURSERY.

Attractive, purpose built building. Talented teachers. Cheerful children. Proud parents. All this can be yours at Wellington Junior School Nursery and Pre-Nursery. EYFS can be used against our reasonable fees. Please enjoy our website www.wellington-school.org.uk

or call Alison Jones to arrange a visit.

T: 01823 668710 - 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 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

01458 241318

Childcare costs rise 19% in 2013 – Childcare Vouchers are the answer With the government expected to launch its new Tax-free Childcare scheme in the autumn of 2015, the cost of childcare is currently a hot topic. The annual childcare report filed by findababysitter. com shows that childcare costs rose by 19% in the year to December 2013. The survey found that parents were struggling to return to work because of the availability and cost of childcare. There has been a significant increase in demand for childcare. However, parents are finding the cost of childcare is preventing them from making returning to work pay. The survey reported that 24% of unemployed parents would like to work and younger parents are keener to get a job – with 38% aged between 18-24 stating, they would work if they could afford to pay for childcare. For many parents, providing their children with a quality and secure environment is top of their list when looking for childcare. The cost of food, quality child carers, resources and equipment all reflect the cost of the service provided. Parents can access more affordable childcare by using Childcare Vouchers to pay for their childcare costs for children up to the age of 16. Employers play an important role when it comes to making childcare more affordable as parents can only

access Childcare Vouchers if their employer offers them. Childcare Vouchers are available to help working parents to save up to £933 per year (subject to individual circumstances) on the cost of their childcare. As the Government is launching their new Tax-free Childcare scheme in 2015, many employers are choosing not to provide Childcare Vouchers, even though they also save money on their Employers National Insurance contributions by doing so. Many parents will be worse off using the new scheme as it is only available to children under the age of 5 and for families where both parents work. Once implemented, new joiners will not be able to access Childcare Vouchers, only those already using them can take advantage of their savings. Childcare costs will continue to rise. Therefore, using Childcare Vouchers and any free entitlement to childcare can significantly help to reduce childcare costs, making childcare more affordable. Parents, whose employer doesn’t offer a Childcare Voucher scheme, can contact Busy Bees Benefits who will get in touch with their employer to set up a scheme. For more information about Childcare Vouchers and the savings they provide, please visit www. busybeesbenefits.com.

We are a leading educational charity which provides support to early years settings and families. For more information contact Emma on 01278 691719 or somerset@pre-school.org.uk

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Little Boots day nursery

Parent Talk March 2014 13

King’s Hall School offers exciting new Holiday Courses King’s Hall School is a coeducational Prep School for children aged 2-13 which is set in a simply stunning location in the foothills of the Quantocks. The 50 acre estate is entirely surrounded by National Trust farmland, yet it’s within a mile of Taunton and provides an idyllic setting for children to learn and discover.

Little Boots is a brand new day nursery set within the beautiful surroundings of Pottery Farm, Horton. The nursery has a secure outdoor play area surrounded by fields and friendly animals such as ducks, chickens and Shetland ponies.

Little Boots Day Nursery aim to work in partnership with parents to provide children with a safe and stimulating environment in which they feel happy and secure enabling them to grow into confident, positive learners as we nurture and develop their individual personalities

available. The nursery has and skills. The nursery is outstanding outdoor facilities open 8am-6pm Mondaywith two sets of large double Friday 51 weeks a year; full doors that open out into day and half day sessions are our enclosed outdoor area available. Children are offered allowing supervised free flow a hot locally prepared meal access all year round. There for lunch, the nursery also are opportunities to plant and provides breakfast, tea and a dig in the vegetable patch as range of healthy snacks! well as learn about and look The main room is carefully after the different plants and organised to accommodate flowers around our setting. children of different ages and We also have extensive grassy give them the space they areas available to use giving need to play, explore and us endless opportunities for learn through the wide range forest activities. of activities and resources For more information please visit www.littlebootsdaynursery.co.uk or call the manager Cleo Wilson on 07936 555676 to ask any questions or arrange a visit.

The school is delighted to offer an exciting range of holiday courses, starting this Easter, for all children aged between 8 and 13 years. Emphasis is placed on skill development, and King’s Hall has the highest level of coaching expertise ready to provide a wonderful experience to the children in the school’s beautiful setting. The offering on this occasion (there will be more in future holidays) means children can join courses for cricket, tennis or adventurous outdoor activities; all of which will be delivered by highly trained, specialist coaches. These courses will deliver focused training and a wonderful opportunity for children of

all abilities to engage with their peers in a friendly and stimulating environment, whilst also enjoying the fantastic facilities King’s Hall has to offer. King’s Hall also runs the wonderful Woodland Adventures Holiday Club for

all fun-loving children from the age of 3, which is hosted in the school’s beautiful woods. With animals to meet, eggs to collect, guinea pigs to feed and vegetables to tend and harvest amongst the myriad of activities, children are never short of things to do.

For more information on the Holiday Courses or Woodland Adventures offered by King’s Hall School, please visit their website www.kingshallschool.co.uk or phone 01823 285920.

BRAND NEW DAY NURSERY OPENING 2014 ❁ Safe

& secure idyllic farmyard setting - fantastic opportunities for enhanced outdoor learning

❁ Open 51

❁ Highly

weeks of the year Mon-Fri 8am-6pm

qualiﬁed experienced staff

Woodland Adventures EASTER HOLIDAY CLUB 24th March - 17th April (excluding weekends)

Open to all fun loving 3 - 13 year olds K I N G ’ S H A L L S C H O O L K I N G S TO N R OA D TA 2 8 A A

❁ Locally

❁ Ages 2-5,

produced hot meal provided

limited places available

❁ Childcare vouchers accepted ❁ Contact us now to ask any questions or book a visit

Tel: 07936 555 676 info@littlebootsdaynursery.co.uk www.littlebootsdaynursery.co.uk

P L E A S E C O N TA C T C L A R E M A S T E R S 0 7 8 5 0 7 7 5 4 9 5

w w w.king shalltaunton.co.uk

LITTLE BOOTS DAY NURSERY, POTTERY FARM, HORTON, ILMINSTER TA19 0SJ

BOOKS BOOKS BOOKS

14 Parent Talk March 2014

Working hard to restore book review damaged homes As home owners and human beings first, our hearts go out to any families that have had their homes damaged in the recent flooding. It must be so distressing to have everything you care about destroyed and be forced into temporary accommodation not knowing when you will be able to return home.

Summer at the Lake

By Erica James Published by Orion It is March. It is cold, wet and, quite frankly, utterly depressing. For me, the only way to survive the last dregs of winter is to reach for an old knitted jumper or cardigan, mash a huge pot of tea, and settle in with this delightfully escapist Erica James novel. Set on the edge of Lake Como, conjuring all the delights of summer and warmth, this charming story has just the right mix of love, sunshine and fun to remind us that Spring really is just around the corner.

We are Concept Solutions South West and we work hard to clear, sanitise, dry and restore damaged properties as quickly and effectively as possible, always bearing in mind the customer needs and concerns. We treat every customer in the manner we would like to be treated ourselves and ensure that their wishes are adhered to. We

Editor’s choice

Virago is 40 – A celebration

Various Authors Published by Virago To celebrate the 40th anniversary of this publisher’s commitment to celebrating the best of women’s writing, contributing authors were asked to submit a piece of writing on the communal theme of the number 40. The selected writings, themselves a mixture of prose, poetry, essays and autobiographies, serve both as a tribute to the work of the publishers, but also as a celebration of the diversity of these authors and the importance of a publishing

The Tale of King Harald The Last Viking Adventure

By Thomas J.T. Williams Published by The British Museum Press

platform, which supports and acknowledges that diversity. Brilliant.

An illustrated adventure telling the story of King Harald Sigurdsson, the last king of the Vikings. Based on a true story, Harald’s adventure takes him from a frightened teenager to wealthy and powerful warrior and finally, to a ruthless and tyrannical king, whose ambition leads him to a futile, yet glorious death at the battle of Stamford Bridge in 1066. This book is based on the medieval saga of King Harald Sigurdsson. It includes wonderful illustrations which bring the story to life and the special feature pages draw on real objects discovered from the Viking Age to illuminate the world Harald lived in. The Tale of King Harald also ties in with Key Stage 2 on the National Curriculum, for children aged 9–11. Go Faster Food for Kids

Essays in Idleness

By Kate Percy Published by Go Faster Food for Kids

By Kenko & Chomei Published by Penguin This wonderful collection of essays and thoughts, written by two Buddhist monks in the 11th and 12th Century, are brilliant in conveying the vibrancy and humour of the authors’ minds, and argue a strong case for the universality of the human condition. Despite the differences of both culture and time; these two philosophers ask of themselves the same questions we still ponder over today. Exquisitely translated and presented, the voices of these two men seem as clear and as sharp