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

February 2016 Volume 23 Issue 2

Inside

✱ Competitions ✱ Chinese

New Year

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Girls and boys, day and boarding, ages 3 - 18

Open Days 4th October 22nd November

s y a d r Taste e l b a l i ava

Open Day

Thursday 25 February 2.30–6.00pm

Saplings Ages 3–5 Wrap around care 8am–6pm New facilities forVouchers Saplings Early Years accepted – IGNITE THE The PARKPark SCHOOL POTENTIAL ANDBA20 ACHIEVE EXCELLENCE School, Yeovil, Somerset, 1DH INDEPENDENT – CO-EDUCATIONAL – AGES 3 TO 18 – DAY & BOARDING

Tel: 01935 423514

The Park Yeovil Somerset BA20 1DH United Kingdom www.parkschool.com admin@parkschool.com +44 (0)1935 423514 adminssions@parkschool.com www.parkschool.com @Park_School /theparkschoolyeovil

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Parent talk contents

Family pages Education, Information Events Book Bag News Education, Information Book Review Classified

p2-4 p5-7 p8 p9-12 p13-17 p18 p19

competitions Sonic Boom Barbie™ Spy Squad Hello Nature

p11 p12 p14

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Half Term Activities and Exhibitions at the Museum of Somerset There’s plenty on offer at the Museum of Somerset this half term, for parents and children. On Sunday 14 February, inspired by our very special historic building, we will be holding Castle’s Day. There will be activities, re-enactments, crafts, dressing up and tours of the 12th century Taunton Castle. The day is from 10am to 5pm, £3 adult, £1 child. Throughout the half term week there will be fun and creative drop-in activities for children inspired by our

If there is one thing you can count on, it is that at some point you are going to get caught out by a summer shower or a wet and cold winter downpour at some juncture throughout the year! Bad weather can mean that opportunities for outdoor play can be halved unless you have the right protective clothing - a recipe for frustrated children and frazzled parents! Made from the very highest quality Teflon-coated nylon, Hippychick’s All in Ones are completely waterproof,

I’ve never really paid a huge amount of attention to February. As there’s no February birthday in our household, it has always been a rather uneventful month but this year there’s no excuse! Pancake Day, Valentine’s Day, Chinese New Year and Leap Year mean there’s plenty to celebrate. Another important day is Safer Internet Day on 9th February and it’s well worth looking at some of the practical guides on social media helping parents keep their children safe online, see p19 for details. Social media and online safety is also covered in one of my ‘Editor’s Choice’ – WHATEVER! A down to earth guide to parenting teenagers . That next step is just around the corner! Best wishes Tamsin, Editor

Newtons, Churchstanton, Taunton TA3 7QF T: 01823 601086 E: 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.

whilst on loan from the Victoria and Albert Museum in London (V&A). According to the V&A the casket is one of their greatest treasures, a magnificent example of the medieval enameller’s art, made in about 1180 to house relics of St Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury. The exhibit will be displayed until Saturday 2 April. The Museum of Somerset is

On loan from the V & A until April 2: The Becket Casket is on display at the Museum of Somerset

part of The South West Heritage Trust, an independent charity committed to protecting and celebrating Somerset and Devon’s rich heritage. Usual opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and entry is free.

For more information visit www.museumofsomerset.org.uk or call 01823 255088.

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first exhibition of 2016. ‘New Dimensions’ features the work of six artists who have produced contemporary artworks based on objects from the museum stores. Entry to the exhibition, which includes film, sculpture, poetry and textiles, is free with a £2 charge per child for activities. Throughout the week there is also a half term trail (£1) which guides children around the museum collections. A visit to the museum will also provide a chance to see the precious Becket Casket

Editor Tamsin Humphreys Advertising Juliet Young Production Sarah Harmer March deadline 17th February 2016

windproof and breathable. They are available in Shell or Fleece Lined options. Attention to detail is a real hallmark of the range, with each seam being fully taped for waterproofing and each piece displaying reflective piping strips – ideal for dark wintery afternoons! There are fully adjustable velcro tabs on the hood, wrists and on the elasticated waist, plus the ankle part features elastic stirrups (2 smallest sizes only). These Waterproofs don’t just look good, they are also

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Taunton Castle, Castle Green, Taunton TA1 4AA museumofsomerset@swheritage.org.uk 01823 255088

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Parent Talk February 2016 3

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Marvellous Mammals at Paignton Zoo!

Discover over 2,000 animals Get stuck into feeding times Run wild in play areas

Over 80 acres

O O D E E B O O WANNA BE I

This half term Paignton Zoo Environmental Park is launching its brand new theme for 2016 - Marvellous Mammals! There will be special talks, trails and activities to show everyone just how marvellous mammals of all shapes and sizes really are. And on that subject, don't forget to drop in and welcome some rather wonderful new arrivals. First of all, stop by the tiger enclosure and say hello to our new male tiger, Fabi, then call in at the cheetahs to see our lovely

female cheetah Jahzara, who has just arrived from a zoo in the Netherlands. During half term at Paignton Zoo there will be special stuff going on all over the place. The first thing to do is to pick up your Marvellous Mammals activity booklet at the main entrance when you arrive. This includes your trail sheet and colouring-in activities and other fun stuff for kids which you can take home to enjoy. There will be a red panda talk at 12.00pm daily. You’ll be able to create your own animal

puppet in the covered area next to the big red Education building. And there will be special tiger enrichment sessions from Monday to Thursday at the big cat talk, when they will be given piñatas to play with. Meanwhile, there will soon be a new house for the residents of Lemur Wood, the Hangout play area is going to be rebuilt and after that the Lakeside play area will be dismantled and new equipment installed, so there will be lots of new stuff to see and do!

U U U U O Y E K LI Half Term Family Fun at e your Go on, releas

paigntonzoo.org.uk

inner animal!

01803 697500

Registered Charity No. 300923

FEBRUARY HALF TERM FUN! PLOT YOUR VEG PLOT gARDENING DAY

15th February OPEN DAILY

"Birds" Family Activity Day 19th February

New Children's Trail All week!

Under 5's Free

The Bishop’s Palace, Wells BA5 2PD 01749 988111 www.bishopspalace.org.uk

www.monkeyworld.org

Kid for a Quid When you bring a present for the primates!*

Saturday 13th - Sunday 21st February 2016 Half Term at

*Children must be accompanied by a full-paying adult!

(Adult entry is £11.75. See www.monkeyworld.org for all entrance prices)

Parent Talk

*For Terms & Conditions go to www.monkeyworld.org/ events and click on the Kid for a Quid details link

Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre, Longthorns, Wareham, Dorset BH20 6HH

T: 01929 462537 email: apes@monkeyworld.org

Parent talk

Running out of ideas for a family meal? head over to our website www.parenttalk.org.uk where you'll find lots of ideas for preparing easy, wholesome and tasty dishes. 4 Parent Talk February 2016

The Palace This Half Term, The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens in Wells will kick off its yearly programme of Family Activities with two childfriendly events. For 2016 the Palace has moved its Family Activity Days to Fridays due to the popularity of the events, previously held on Wednesdays, in 2015. Events & Exhibitions Manager, Jonathan Sawyer, said “During 2015 we saw a huge increase in the numbers attending our Family Activity Days during the School Holidays. We took feedback from our visitors and found that many of our local families would prefer to come on a day that isn’t a Market Day,

so that they can park in town more easily.” The Family Garden Activities will take place on Mondays during 2016 and the Family Activity Days will take place on Fridays. On Monday 15th February from 11am-3pm there will be a Family Garden Activity entitled ‘Plot Your Veg Plot’ in the Community Garden. Led by Community Gardener Amanda Clay, the session will focus on planning what to grow in your garden this year. Amanda will have advice, tips and hands on fun for all ages! On Friday 19th February from 11am-3pm the first of

our Family Fun Fridays will be based on the theme of ‘Birds’. Join our crafty team leaders to make bird feeders, feather fans and starling finger puppets,

then take the chance to follow our ‘twitchers trail’ through the house and gardens, hunting for avian answers! All activities are included in standard admission.

Kid for a Quid at Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre this February Half Term! From Saturday 13th to Sunday 21st February 2016, Monkey World is offering children entry to the park for just £1 when they each bring a present for the primates and are accompanied by a full paying adult! 'Presents' must be either: - CHEWABLE VITAMIN C (60mg); - Or PACKETS OF RAISINS - Or SOCKS (Don’t need to be new, just clean and without holes) (Please

note

that

opened

packets of vitamins or raisins are not accepted) One full paying-adult may bring more than one child for £1, but one donation ('present') is required per child to redeem the offer. This offer is also open to 'Adoptive Parents' who receive free entry to the park. The Activity Centre will be open all week for children to get involved in, pop in to find out what’s happening during your visit. Have a great day out this February Half Term at Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre!

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Ignite your child's potential The Park School was founded in 1851 and has developed an outstanding reputation for academic excellence. The secret lies in the educational philosophy: ensuring exceptional teaching that is tailored to the individual through encouraging a highly differentiated learning atmosphere. Students at The Park School discover their potential and achieve excellence to become well-rounded and balanced citizens. The School embraces traditional values and students experience a caring, happy and secure environment. The Park School is a day and boarding school welcoming a highly diverse and international student body in which children can grow and flourish with an open-minded worldview. Children aged 3 to 5 are accommodated in the Saplings building with their own classrooms and outdoor play areas. However, as an integral part of the School, the students make full use of the Junior School’s facilities, such

as the dining hall, playground and outdoor pond area. The Park School’s Junior Department is a perfect place to learn and make friends. In a small classroom setting the Junior Pastoral and Subject Teachers know each student as an individual and learning experiences are designed

to cater for each student’s educational requirements. There is nothing to match a visit, so you can explore The Park School. A warm welcome awaits you at the Open Day on Thursday 25 February from 2.30 to 6pm. You can call 01935 423514 or contact us via email admissions@parkschool.com.

AL L

Prestigious Summer Music School to be based at All 24th to 29th July Hallows School 2016 The 'Summer's Cool' Music School will be based at All Hallows Preparatory School in East Cranmore from Sunday 24th to Friday 29th July 2016. The experienced team of professional musicians and fully qualified music teachers, led by Director Andrew Mock, have been running this excellent residential and day course since 1985 at various venues nationally. The course provides a wide variety of musical and social activities and is open to all young musicians aged 8 – 16. It is designed to be fun, encouraging young people to enjoy their music and make new friends. The days are filled with various ensembles, singing and lunchtime concerts. In the afternoons and evenings, course leaders organise swimming and a host of fun activities. On a Wednesday afternoon, there is an off-site activity with an

H A L LOW S

P R E PA R AT O RY

SC H O O L

evening BBQ and organised games. At the end of the week, there is a short presentation of the week's musical highlights

for parents, relatives and friends. Fully inclusive residential rate £499, non-residential £389.

For more information visit www.summerscool.org.uk or email a.mock@summerscool.co.uk

TH E inde pendent D IF F E R E NCE ON YOUR D OOR STE P. We can offer your child: • the freedom to learn through feeling safe, happy and valued • small class sizes, single year groups and personalised learning • the opportunity to discover their creative talents through the arts, drama and music • excellent coaching, superb facilities and competitive sports opportunities • fresh air every day • the opportunity to develop a strong moral compass.

COME AND VISIT US admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk allhallowsschool.co.uk

OPEN MORNING. Monday, 2nd May 2016. 9.30am to midday follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

Parent Talk February 2016 5

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Chance for children to get creative with cupcakes YOUNGSTERS from Somerset can have a go at decorating cupcakes during workshops being held at a garden centre in the county this half-term holiday. The workshops will take place in the Pondside Café at Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre from February 15 until 19 from 10am until 3pm. Denis Guillemin, Catering Operations Manager at the award-winning, independent, family-run garden centre at Monkton Heathfield near Taunton, said: “We’re putting on our cupcake decorating workshops so families can get out of the house this half-term and come along together to take on a task that will use all their creative skills. “We’re challenging children to decorate already baked cupcakes with their best designs. The workshops will cost £3 per child and everything needed

for decorating will be provided on the day. Children will be able to take their cupcakes home with them after the workshop to share with their friends and family.” The workshops will run from 10am until 3pm and will last approximately 20 minutes. No booking is necessary. All children must be accompanied by an adult during the workshop. Members of the garden centre staff will also be on-hand to help youngsters decorate their cupcakes. Denis added: “We hope lots of children come along and get involved, it’s a great way for youngsters to meet other children, make friends and have fun doing a creative activity.” The cupcake decorating workshops will take place every day from Monday, February 15 until Friday, February 19 from 10am until 3pm in the Pondside Café.

New happenings at Mill on the Brue for the summer holidays!

Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre will be hosting cupcake decorating workshops in its Pondside Café during the February half-term holidays.

For more information, please visit the garden centre, which is located just off the A38 at Monkton Heathfield between Bridgwater and Taunton, call 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.

Things children are really interested in. A second, longer zip wire was installed last year, going right across the valley, trees and river. The badgers have been digging underneath our climbing wall, so we are building a brand new

Summer holid

ays!

Day & residential ca

mps

01749 812 307 Bruton, Somerset BA10 0BA www.millonthebrue.co.uk

Running out of ideas for a family meal?

tower with abseiling as well. Another addition is a second assault course which looks as if you can get as muddy and as wet as you want to. There are still the old favourites including archery, canoeing, raft building and racing, rifle shooting, high ropes, fire lighting, camping, rocket firing, crafts, giant water slide, concert and disco and of course the animals - the dogs, Tilly, Dylan and Honey, cats Alfie and Dora, Harry the donkey, Miss Effie the miniature Shetland pony, the pigs, Marigold and Morag, as well as the sheep and hens. Mill on the Brue Outdoor centre is based in Bruton, Somerset in an old farmhouse and converted barns. We have twenty five acres of woods, fields, and river valley and grow many organic vegetables and fruit for meal times. The food is delicious, plentiful and all home cooked. We have been operating for over 35 years so we think we know what children really like! The residential summer camps are 8 – 15 years, day 7 – 12 years, even Mini Mobsters for some midweek mornings 5 & 6 years old. Fun, challenge, excitement and friends – you can’t beat Mill on the Brue Outdoor Activity Centre!

Parent Talk

info@millonthebrue.co.uk 00 44 (0) 1749 812307 www.millonthebrue.co.uk

Parent talk

head over to our website www.parenttalk.org.uk where you'll find lots of ideas for preparing easy, wholesome and tasty dishes as well as delicious snacks and smoothies. 6 Parent Talk February 2016

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Realise your Potential Millfield Pre-Prep at Somerset College gets hands-on with

history

Are you considering changing your career, looking for a challenge or to learn something just for fun? Somerset College offers a range of courses to help you achieve your ambitions. It is much more achievable and affordable than you might think. Distance learning courses are free to those 19 years and over, and there are flexible payment options for degree courses. There are many different ways to study, so you can fit your learning around your lifestyle. Changing careers can be a scary prospect, but at Somerset College we are here to help you

decide which is the best course for you, depending on what you want to achieve and how you want to study. With most of our degree courses available parttime, continuing to work whilst you study for a meaningful qualification becomes an achievable possibility. Somerset College provides the highest standard of education and training using industry-standard

facilities and resources, whilst remaining a friendly, welcoming environment in a local setting. It may be that you want to improve your skills and knowledge in an existing sector, or increase your earning potential by moving into a completely new career. However you want to improve your life and prospects, let us help you to achieve your goals.

To find out more about Somerset College’s degrees or any other qualifications, visit www.somerset.ac.uk or email enquiries@somerset.ac.uk. Alternatively pop in to the next Information Evening on 9 March 2016 from 5.30pm to 8pm.

To book a Personal Visit or an Open Morning call Hannah Cox in Admissions on 01458 837524

Story Writer Mini Chef Runner

We believe that learning should be an experience – one that sticks in the mind and is carried with us during our lives. Throughout the Pre-Prep we ensure that our teaching is interactive, engaging and child-centred. Recently Year 2’s learning has had a history focus with a particular interest in the Victorians. At Radstock Museum our pupils dressed up as Victorian school children and took part in a lesson. It was not a very pleasant experience and most of them agreed that they preferred Millfield PrePrep today to the schools of yesteryear! The children also learnt about the famous engineer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, travelling to Bristol to visit the ss Great Britain. They took part in a workshop on Brunel as a designer and engineer and

toured the museum before boarding the ship. Dressed in Victorian clothing, they imagined launching the ship and waving goodbye to their loved ones. Through these interactive, hands-on experiences children gain a real sense of what life was like in the past. They develop their sense of chronology and begin to understand some of the reasons why we live as

we do today. They learn to question and wonder and we actively encourage them to use enquiry-based learning as a way of discovering answers to questions for themselves. Feel free to come and visit us at Millfield Pre-Prep; we will welcome you warmly and our children will tell you all about how we learn here and why they enjoy their time at school so much.

To book for our March Open Mornings please visit millfieldschool.com/pre-prep

M O or orn ur n Sa ing ex tu s a t O rd re p ay F en 5 M rida ar y 4 ch

Space and freedom to learn millfieldschool.com/everyfield

Parent Talk February 2016 7

Parent

events

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

. M A R K E T S . T H E AT R E S . FA I R S . F E T E S . S H O W S . E X H I B I T I O N S . 6th February: Cheeky Monkey Day. Museum of East Asian Art. Bath, BA1 2QJ. 2-4pm. Admission free. Help us with our Year of the Monkey Challenge by making one hundred origami monkeys. Your monkeys will be displayed together with an artist commissioned giant origami monkey to celebrate the Year of the monkey. 01225 464640 6th February: Monkey! presented by PuppetCraft. Wiveliscombe Primary School TA4 2LA. 6.30pm. With a new script written specially for PuppetCraft by the brilliant poet Michael Rosen, Children’s Laureate (200709). The comic adventures of a fantastical superhero inspired by classic Chinese epic story. Suitable for ages 4+. 01984 624442 www.puppetcraft.co.uk 6th-7th February: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil, BA20 1UX. Direct from a smash-hit West End and international tour. Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt is brought vividly and noisily to the stage. 01935 422884 7th February: Charity Indoor Gala. Huish Leisure Centre, Langport TA10 9SS. 11am-1pm. Fundraising for Guide Dogs for the Blind. Bouncy Castle, craft table for kids, face painting, glitter tattoos, kids lunches, home made cakes, refreshments, raffle, lucky dip, biscuit decorating, sensory table, games for all the family. Come and meet Webster the working Guide Dog. No dogs allowed on school grounds other than Webster and his Guide Dog friends! 01458 251055 9th February: Pancake Lunch. The Village Hall, Kingston St Mary, Taunton, TA2 8HR. 12 noon – 2pm. In aid of Children’s Hospice South West. Sweet and savoury pancakes available. £7 to include pancake lunch and drink. 01823 451112 10th February: Stones & Bones. Presented by Squashbox Theatre.

Hatch Beauchamp Village Hall. 1.30pm. Come on a journey to Ancient Cornwall A land of fiery volcanoes and strange prehistoric creatures… A land of myth and legend, giants and druids… A land of Stones and Bones… Squashbox Theatre’s new show is a marvelous mix of history and mystery! Suitable for ages 5+ www. squashboxtheatre.co.uk 01823 481909 13th February: Manda Clarke Showcase – Let’s Dance. The Regal Theatre Minehead, TA24 5AY. The Manda Clarke School of Dancing joined by members of Still Tapping. A charity performance in aid of St Margaret’s Hospice. Dancers from the age of four upwards will showcase a mixture of Ballet, Tap and Modern dancing for everyone to enjoy. 01643 706430 13th February: Grand Pier Fireworks at Sea. The Grand Pier, Weston super Mare BS23 1AL, 5pm. 01934 620238 13th-14th February: The Ruff Guide to Shakespeare. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. The Life, the times and every single play, famous and some less wellknown plays – all in one hour! Suitable for ages 5+. 01225 823409 14th February: Year of the Monkey Celebration. Museum of East Asian Art, Bath BA1 2QJ. 12.00-4pm. A fun-packed programme for all ages. Alongside with the storytelling sessions, there will be various New Year related activities and adult workshops running on different floor levels. The celebration is also free to attend. Three storytelling sessions start at 12:30pm, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. 01225 464640 15th February: Cinema: Cat in the Hat. The Brewhouse, Taunton. TA1 1JL. 10.30am and 2.45pm. Based on the book by Dr. Seuss and starring Mike Myers, Sally and Conrad are two bored kids whose life is turned up-side-down when a talking cat comes to visit them. 01823 283244

15th-16th February: Romeo and Juliet, presented by Let’s All Dance. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. Let’s All Dance’s edgy, explosive production engages audiences of all ages and, especially young people, with this high energy Hip Hop step. Fantastic dancing, crystalclear storytelling and engaging characters create a gripping show. 01225 464640. 16th February: Cinema: Fantastic Mr Fox. The Brewhouse, Taunton. TA1 1JL. 10.30am and 2.45pm. Based on the novel by Roald Dahl. 01823 283244 16th February: Stones & Bones. Presented by Squashbox Theatre. Dulverton Town Hall. 3pm. Come on a journey to Ancient Cornwall A land of fiery volcanoes and strange prehistoric creatures…. Suitable for ages 5+ www.squashboxtheatre.co.uk 01398 323474 16th-20th February: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. The Playhouse, Weston super Mare, BS23 1HP. Weston’s Playhouse Theatre is delighted to be once again teaming up with Bill Kenwright Limited to bring one of the world’s most loved musical’s to Weston-super-Mare continuing the venue’s tag line of “from the West End to Weston”. 01934 645544 16th-20th February: Snowdrops and Steam. West Somerset Railway, Bishops Lydeard. TA4 3RU. 01643 704996 17th February: Stones & Bones. Roadwater Village Hall. TA23 0RE. 6pm. 01984 640976. See above entry. 18th February: Workshops: Make your own animal. The Brewhouse, Taunton. TA1 1JL. 10.15am, 12.15pm and 3pm. Clay workshops with Jo Dove. Come and make your favourite animal or mythical beast. We will be using different techniques in clay to make animals, adding

detail and ceramic colours before they are glazed and fired for you to collect at a later date. 01823 283244 18th February: Dinkies Dream. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. In this mini, magical ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, much-loved Dinkies Storytime hosts, Jackie and Pooja, fall asleep and wake up in a magical forest full of fairies! Suitable for ages 18 months to 4 years. 01225 464640 19th-20th February: Pocket Dream, presented by Propeller. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. A Midsummer Night’s Dream for young audiences. Suitable for ages 8+. 01225 464640. 25th February: Dinkies Dream. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. In this mini, magical ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, much-loved Dinkies Storytime hosts, Jackie and Pooja, fall asleep and wake up in a magical forest full of fairies! Nothing is familiar, everything seems topsy-turvy and there is plenty of sparkling magic in the air. What’s going on?! Suitable for ages 18 months to 4 years. 01225 464640 26th-28th Feburary: Romeo and Juliet. the egg, Theatre Royal Bath, BA1 1ET. Explosive one hour production of Shakespeare’s masterpiece brings the classic tragedy to a younger audience. Suitable for ages 5+. 01225 464640 27th February: SING-A-LONG-A FROZEN. The Playhouse, Weston super Mare. BS23 1HP. 3pm. 01934 645544 27th February: SING-A-LONG-A ...... GREASE. The Playhouse, Weston super Mare. BS23 1HP. 01934 645544 27th February: Dinkies Storytime. Monkton Prep School, Bath, BA2 7HG. Fun storytelling session for preschoolers and their parents. 01225 464640 27th February: Pinocchio. The Brewhouse, Taunton. TA1 1JL. 11am and 2pm. 01823 283244

What’s on at Bodley Craft in February?

Holiday Craft Clubs for 8-14’s We are getting ready for the warmer weather, have fully stocked the craft room and are ready for a whole host of springtime craft activities! Half term clubs: Wednesday 17th & Thursday 18th February 9am-5pm We will be exploring outside and seeing how we can use natural materials we find to make unique craft projects. Then inside we’ll be sticking,

cutting, planting, shaping, drawing, painting, wrapping, winding, filling and having lots of fun whilst making some fabulous creations! So send your 8-14’s along to come and create some springthemed crafts to brighten up your home and inspire their imaginations! £25 per day. Book two spaces and get 10% off! More information and booking forms at www.bodleycraft.co.uk

Craft Studio Holiday Clubs for 8-14’s

A fabulous craft studio, minutes from Wellington town with ample parking

Birthday Parties for any age Various Workshops throughout the year For more information and to book contact: sam@bodleycraft.co.uk or www.bodleycraft.co.uk

An Amazing place to Holiday with Pre-schoolers… 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 22 years. Highly recommended. ‘VisitBritain 3 & 4 star’

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

8 Parent Talk February 2016

….and children of all ages, and great for the grown-ups as well! Torridge House Cottages offers a delightful away from it all environment in Devon where everyone in the family can have a wonderful time. Fun on the little farm helping with the baby bunnies, the pony, chickens and pigs. Thoroughly child orientated, farmer led feeding times take place at small people’s speed with the wellbeing of the animals and the children a highest priority. The wide open gardens with toddler toys just ask to be explored, the football area

doubles up for egg and spoon races; the outdoor heated swimming pool has a baby pool alongside. A playroom, games room and library are in the gardens too. A pottery is close by for pot throwing and painting, just right for baby hand prints. Also in the tiny village is a fantastic therapist offering treatments from massages to Reiki. The outstandingly beautiful countryside is home to

excellent family attractions, cycling, walking and other sporting opportunities and there are plenty of family friendly cafes, tea rooms and pubs. The glorious coast of North Devon with its wide variety of scenarios from wide, wide sandy beaches, fishing villages to traditional seaside towns gives boundless choice of activities from surfing to beach days out.

More information about Torridge House Cottages, their free wi-fi and nursery equipment, chef cooked meals and cottage availability can be found on www.torridgehouse.co.uk or, for a chat, from 01805 622 542.

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Book Bag

Chinese New Year

For two weeks China turns red for Chinese New Year as it represents luck and happiness, key for the year ahead. It’s a time to be generous and give money to children wrapped in red paper, while friends and loved ones exchange poems on red paper. It’s a time to think about ancestors, and wish peace and happiness to those close to you. The holiday ends with the Festival of Lanterns, as many large communities stage the famous Dragon Dance. Fireworks, parades, lanterns, presents, and feasts: these are some of the joys experienced by all who observe Chinese New Year.

The Chinese Year of the Monkey begins on 8th February 2016 and ends on 27th January 2017. Signs of the Chinese Zodiac

The Monkey is one of the signs of the Chinese Zodiac which is made up of 12 animals.

2016 Is a Fire Monkey Year

Rat

Rabbit

Sheep

Dragon

Monkey

Tiger

In Chinese astrology, each year is associated with a Chinese zodiac animal sign and one the Five Elements: Gold (Metal), Water, Wood, Fire, or Earth. Both the sign and element of your birth year are said to affect your personality and destiny. Element-sign combinations recur every 60 years.

Snake

Rooster

www.parenttalk.org.uk

The Five Monkeys

Horse

Dog

Fire Monkey, Wood Monkey, Water Monkey, Gold Monkey, Earth Monkey

Boar

Book Bag NEWS NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC KIDS PRESENTS HOLIDAYS AROUND THE WORLD

Celebrate CHINESE NEW YEAR Chinese New Year is a festival celebrated by over a billion people in China alone. Celebrate Chinese New Year looks at the culture and values around this special celebration. Price: £5.99 Publishing 14th January 2016 ISBN: 9781426323720

The pages below are taken from the above title. HY

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www.parenttalk.org.uk 23

FAMILY

Happy Pancake Day

Shrove Tuesday 9th February

WIN! Sonic Boom: The Sidekick on DVD!

We’re celebrating the release of Sonic Boom: The Sidekick on DVD on 8th February 2016, by giving away 2 copies of the DVD for lucky readers to win.

e Day? When is Pancak

Pancake Day has been celebrated by Britons for centuries. Known also as Shrove Tuesday, its date changes every year depending when Easter falls but it is always the day before Ash Wednesday (the first day of Lent), and always in February or March. It can be any Tuesday between 3 February and 9 March. an? ve Tuesday me What does Shro

The word shrove is a form of the English verb shrive, which means to obtain absolution (forgiveness) for one's sins by way of confession and penance. Shrove Tuesday gets its name from the custom for Christians to be "shriven" before the start of Lent. Pancake Day? te ra b le e c e w o Why d

Traditionally, pancakes were eaten on this day to use up rich, indulgent foods like eggs and milk before the 40-day fasting season of Lent began which is why the French call it mardi gras (fat Tuesday). Although it is enshrined in Christian tradition, some believe that Pancake Day might originate in a pagan holiday, when eating warm, round pancakes, symbolising the sun, was a way of encouraging the arrival of spring.

The speedy blue hedgehog gets a new look in this comedy, adventure series that sees him battling a familiar foe with sidekick Tails and pals Knuckles, Amy and Sticks. The gang tries to ward off the evil plans of Dr. Eggman, who is hell-bent on taking over the world. Sonic faces regular battles with Eggman’s henchmen, including loyal robots Orbot and Cubot, evil interns, and giant, robotic monsters. To be in with a chance of winning a copy of Sonic Boom: The Sidekick, just answer the following question… What speedy blue animal is Sonic? a)Cat b)Hedgehog c)Fox Visit www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter by the closing date of 17th February 2016. © 2016 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. © SEGA and OuiDo ! Productions. All rights reserved.

www.parenttalk.org.uk

Book Bag NEWS

WIN! Barbie™ Spy Squad on DVD

Can you help the sheep find it's way to the flower?

1. What starts with a P, ends with an E and has thousands of letters? 2. If you throw a white rock into the Red sea, what does it become?

Knock, knock Who’s there? Luke Luke who? Luke who got a Valentine!

3. A father’s child, a mother’s child, yet no one’s son. Who am I?

What did the light bulb say to the other light bulb? I love you a watt! What did the boy bear say to the girl bear on Valentine’s Day? I love you beary much! What did the boy octopus say to the girl octopus? Can I hold your hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand?

5. What always goes to sleep with his shoes on?

4. What goes through towns and over hills but never moves?

Answers 1. Post office 2. Wet 3. The daughter 4. A road 5. A horse

What kind of flowers do you never give on Valentine’s Day? Cauliflowers!

visit www.parenttalk.org.uk for answers

To celebrate the release of the brand new super adventure Barbie™ Spy Squad we have 2 copies to give away on DVD. Barbie™ and her best friends Teresa and Renee transform from hard-working gymnasts to undercover secret agents, when their amazing gymnastic skills catch the eye of a top-secret spy agency. Soon they are hot on the heels of a gem-stealing cat burglar who has escaped everyone on the case. With their high-tech gadgets, glam disguises and cute robo-pets, the girls must prove that smarts and teamwork can get the mission accomplished. It’s Girl Power to the rescue and you can play out the adventures of Barbie™ and her best friends with the Spy Decoder! Don’t miss this brand new super adventure, Barbie™ Spy Squad, available on DVD, and DIGITAL DOWNLOAD from 15th February 2016 and available to pre-order now! To be in with a chance of winning Barbie™ Spy Squad on DVD, just answer the following question… What skills does Barbie™ use to catch the eye of the secret spy agency? a) Gymnastics b) Football c) Writing Visit www.parenttalk.org.uk to enter by the closing date of 17th February 2016. ©2016 Mattel, Inc. All Rights Reserved. ©2016 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Join The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ by taking part in The Giant Wiggle to help vulnerable children What: Action for Children’s annual event, The Giant Wiggle Where: In your local nursery, school, children’s centre or with friends and family When: Any time during the week of 21st-27th March 2016 Why: To encourage children to have fun and raise money for leading charity Action for Children Leading UK charity Action for Children is teaming up with The World of Eric Carle™ and the most read children’s book in the UK, The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ to get children’s centres, nurseries and other groups throughout the country to host Giant Wiggle events during the week of 21st-27th March 2016. The sponsored walks will bring children together to wiggle like caterpillars in giant conga lines and encourage them to play and develop their imaginations through storytelling and creativity. All money raised through the event will support Action for Children’s work across the country to help vulnerable children, young people

and families in the heart of communities. Action for Children provides early years child development, learning and childcare services to thousands of tots throughout the UK, through its children and family centres. In March 2015, more than 54,000 children took part in nearly 950 Giant Wiggle events. Over the past two years, The Giant Wiggle has raised more

than £149,000 for Action for Children. TV presenter Laura Hamilton, who will taking part explains: “The Giant Wiggle is a fantastic opportunity for children to get involved with a great cause to help other youngsters, having a blast with friends and family at the same time. My little ones and I will be taking part – join us and The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ for all the fun!”

For more information on how to organise your own Giant Wiggle, visit www.actionforchildren.org.uk/giantwiggle.

So much on offer at Wellington School

If it is academic results you are concerned about for your child, Wellington School has just what you need. We have superb GCSE and A level results across all subjects and 5 of our pupils have just received Oxbridge offers. Last year, over 70% went off to prestigious “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 a Director in Residence, the performing arts go from strength to strength. From the rip-roaring success of spectacular musicals 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 unique new Sport and Wellbeing department with specialist strength and conditioning

coaches who take fitness to new levels across all sporting disciplines. Steffan Jones, ex Somerset Cricketer is also developing an elite cricket and sporting 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”.

Come along to our next Open Morning on Monday 2nd May from 9am to 12noon to see what makes us so special. Contact us on 01823 668800 or admissions@wellingtonschool.org.uk to book a place.

Parent Talk February 2016 13

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Growing your own saves £s on your shopping bill Brits are saving an average £268 a year by digging for their dinner plate, according to new research released recently by the UK’s ultimate grow your own event – The Edible Garden Show. The study of 1,000 UK residents revealed homegrown food has never been more fashionable - and with good reason. Wolverhampton residents are saving more than twice the national average at £579 per year so it’s no surprise almost two-thirds of people nationwide have grown their own produce in the last five years and more than half are planning to in 2016. While saving money is key for 40%, health and taste benefits also top the poll of motivational factors. Popular botanist and television presenter James Wong, who will be headlining the show, which after two successful years in London is returning to the National Agricultural and Exhibition Centre in Stoneleigh, Warwickshire from 11-13 March, believes you can’t beat the taste of home-grown produce. James says: “Growing your own has never been so popular.

It can be so much more cuttingedge than people think. By using a range of simple scientific tips and tricks you can easily supercharge the flavour and nutrient content of your crops to make them far tastier than the supermarket alternatives.” As the nation prepares to sow and plant their own potatoes (42%), strawberries (46%), tomatoes (59%), herbs (51%), lettuce (36%), onions (29%), peas (24%), raspberries (23%) and chilies (20%), James believes most grow-yourown enthusiasts are merely scratching at the surface by sticking to growing traditional fruit and veg. He says: “This amounts to only 1% of what could be grown in the UK. Brits are missing out on countless weird and wonderful flavours and should be more adventurous. From Szechuan peppers and edible fuchsia berries, to tiny cucamelons and even home grown green tea, up to 3,000 edible crops can be grown extremely easily in the UK climate. Not only does it add variety to the ingredients you cook with and help you enjoy a healthier lifestyle, it also saves you. It is much cheaper to grow

saffron for instance than to buy it in the shops.” Although limited space is the largest constraint with 55% of people saying it’s put them off taking the plunge, nearly one in three are now considering growing their edible crops alongside their ornamental plants and flowers. James says: “As our gardens become smaller and smaller and we appreciate the amazing results that can be achieved in limited spaces, I think we’ll see more people moving away from purely ornamental gardens as they specifically select plants for their edible qualities. You don’t have to have acres of lands to grow your own. Tasty and incredible edible crops can be nurtured from the smallest of spaces on patios, balconies, window boxes and even front doorsteps.” Di Appleyard, Marketing and PR Co-ordinator for The National Allotment Society, says: “This research shows just how vital our allotment plots are and how, despite the majority of people in the UK only having access to small gardens and miniscule balconies, we have rediscovered our taste for and

COMPETITION

appreciation of home grown fruit and vegetables. Events like The Edible Garden Show provide a great opportunity to pick up some tips to get children interested in gardening and keen on eating fresh, healthy food. The inspirational talks and demonstrations give people the confidence.” It’s also incredibly social. With nearly half of Brits choosing to pick up a trowel with their partners and almost one in four inspiring the next generation by growing with either their children or grandchildren, it’s one of the best hobbies for leaving any troubles behind as you get out and have fun losing yourselves tending to your own fruit and veg. The Edible Garden Show Event Director Geraldine Reeve says: “Families growing together is at the very of heart of the show as it’s something the whole family can enjoy. It’s

really important to enthuse youngsters and give them an understanding of where their food comes from which is why there’s something for everyone. We have a huge crop of exciting exhibitors as well as a fertile mix of interactive advice sessions, hands-on demonstrations and

livestock. So whether you’re a novice, an expert or just seeking a slice of the good life, you can’t help but walk away inspired.” For more information about this great value for money family day out where under 5s are free visit: www. theediblegardenshow.co.uk

Go-Kart Party - the perfect experience for boys and girls 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.

Win a copy of Hello Nature Hello Nature, by Nina Chakrabarti and published by Laurence King in February 2016 is a fantastic new nature activity book, exploring the exciting natural world around us. Hello Nature is your very own nature scrapbook, packed with fascinating facts and brilliant activities. Doodle, draw and colour in leaves, butterflies, frogs and much more. How many different types of snowflakes are there, and how are leaves formed? Find out how to make your own leaf prints, twig sculptures and bird restaurants and enjoy hours of outdoor fun! From the publisher that 14 Parent Talk February 2016

brought you the international bestseller ‘Secret Garden’ by Johanna Basford, comes a new, fantastically illustrated activity book all about nature.

With her beautiful, distinctive illustrations, Nina Chakrabarti urges you to explore the weird and wonderful things you can find all around you whether you’re out in a park, your back garden or sitting in your living room at home!

Nathan and his team offer both boys and girls of 4 -10 years a unique opportunity to race battery powered gokarts 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

You can check out the fantastic feedback Nathan receives from parents on

Parent Talk have 5 copies to give away. For your chance to win, answer the question below and visit www.parenttalk.org.uk by the closing date of 17 February 2016.

Name the 3 parts of a butterfly’s body?

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.

www.facebook.com/ GoKartPartySW and for more

Call Nathan on: 07703 719 402

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

information contact Nathan on 07703 719 402, nathan@go-kartparty.co.uk or visit www.gokartpartysw.co.uk

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Wealth of opportunities at King’s Hall Being faced with the decision of where to send your child to Nursery or School is not only an important decision, but it can also be difficult. King’s Hall School prides itself on providing an excellent environment for children in which to grow and learn, with a wealth of opportunities for all of our children, from the smallest to the tallest. Don’t just take our word for it, though! We think the best way to truly understand what our wonderful school can offer is to come and see for yourself. We have an Open Day dedicated to our Pre-Prep, for children aged from 2 – 7 years old. On the day, you will have a tour of our fantastic Pre-Prep department whilst the King’s Hall Prep children carry on with their normal day. We feel this is the best way for parents to

NURSERY & PRE-PREP

OPEN DAY

King’s Hall School Pre-Prep pupils

see, and feel, what King’s Hall is really all about. There will be an opportunity to chat with our staff, including our Head of PrePrep, Claire Luckhurst. Plenty of refreshments, including homemade biscuits, are available and your children are more than welcome to join you.

Our next Nursery and PrePrep Open Day is on Friday 4th March. Reserve your space by contacting our Admissions Registrar, Emma Guppy, on 01823 28592. Personal visits can also be arranged on any day. We look forward to welcoming you.

New Sixth Form Scholarship Announced The Governing Body at Bruton School for Girls is delighted to announce the introduction of a new Sixth Form Scholarship Award. Headmistress, Nicky Botterill, explained: “Thanks to a very generous benefactor and a much appreciated donation from the Visitors of Sexey’s Hospital, the Governors have decided to offer a 100% scholarship for a local day student to study A Levels for two years, starting in September 2016. “Our Sixth Form’s reputation for academic success continues to grow: last summer 85% of all students gained A*-C grades and an impressive 75% of the A Level cohort achieved either an A or A* grade. The percentage of girls with three or more passes at A Level was the best for three years and jumped from 89% in the previous year to 95% in 2015. In addition, this year we had five Oxbridge candidates, of whom three have received firm offers to read Mathematics at St Catherine’s College, Oxford, Natural Sciences at Trinity College, Cambridge and Natural Sciences at Pembroke College, Cambridge.” Mrs Botterill went on to say that this new Scholarship would extend the opportunity to experience all that Bruton has to offer to a local girl who might otherwise not be able to afford it. “I absolutely believe that the experience of studying at our Sixth Form, and the additional opportunities that brings, will

be a life-changing opportunity for one lucky student and will prepare them for University and life beyond.” Anyone wishing to find out more about how to apply should see: www.brutonschool. co.uk/scholarships

‘Excellent’and ‘Outstanding’

ISI rates us in

every way

Read the full ISI Report at www.brutonschool.co.uk

New Sixth Form Scholarship • Governors announce new award

B E PA RT O F T H E F U N

• 100% Sixth Form Scholarship • Join us to study A Levels in Sept 2016 • Recent Oxbridge successes

Friday 4th March

Applications now welcome see website for details

10 am arrival

Please contact us to reserve your place

Deadline: 29th February 2016 SUNNY HILL • BRUTON • SOMERSET

T 01749 814400

W BRUTONSCHOOL.CO.UK E ADMISSIONS@BRUTONSCHOOL.CO.UK

Day and boarding school for girls aged 7-18 Day school for girls and boys aged 3-7

Nursery & Pre-Prep ages 2–7 > telephone: 01823 285921 admissions@kingshalltaunton.co.uk > www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk A Woodard School

Parent Talk February 2016 15

NURSERY All Hallows Preparatory School Nursery Class Give your 3 year old the best possible start within the environs of this renowned Prep School. Fantastic facilities and activities including Forest School, LTA Tennis Academy and Swimming Pool and access to specialist teaching staff for languages, Music, Art, Dance, Drama and Sport set this facility apart from other nurseries. Visit at any time: T 01749 881600 E admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk Bridgwater College Childcare 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. It has a secure outdoor area boasting an ‘inspirational garden’, where children are encouraged to explore both indoor and outdoor learning. T: 01278 441270 or E: childcare@bridgwater.ac.uk www.bridgwaterchildcare.ac.uk Brook Green Early Years Recently relocated to purpose built setting offering a larger learning environment and large garden, which can be accessed at all times for free flow play. Highly qualified staff. Spaces available now, 2/3/4 year old funding accepted. Please Call 01823 353072 for further information. Cheekie Monkeys 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

directory

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 exceptional 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 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

Little Boots Day Nursery (Ages 2-5, 8am-6pm) Come and visit us on Pottery Farm! Our idyllic setting offers fantastic opportunities for enhanced outdoor learning; we work with a maximum of 16 children a day ensuring each child gets the individual attention they need. Contact Cleo Wilson for more information. T 07936 555 676 littlebootsdaynursery.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 Miniatures Day Nursery Open 50 weeks per year, we provide a safe, secure and stimulating environment for children aged 0-5 years. Open 8am5.30pm, we provide home cooked food. Funding for 2, 3 and 4 yr olds. Two minutes from A358. Church Rd, Ilton, Ilminster. T. Marion on 01460 55488 www.miniaturesdaynursery.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 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 Sunny Hill Pre-School and Pre-Prep (Ages 3 - 7), Sunny Hill welcomes pre-school and primary school-aged children, taking girls from 3-11 years old and boys aged 3-7. Situated in the beautiful market town of Bruton on the 40 acre campus of 'big sister' school, Bruton School for Girls. Small classes mean that every child receives high quality individual attention; your child will not get ‘lost in the crowd’ at Sunny Hill. They will be treasured; we are interested in the individual child, they have our time and our attention.

Wrap around care available. To arrange a visit or taster session please contact Mrs Carrie Crook in Admissions on 01749 824400 or email admissions@brutonschool.co.uk Taunton Nursery School for children from 0 years. Flexible Nursery Education, 7.30am- 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 703300 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 9.15-11.15am, Wellington Prep School Hall. £3 per child and £1 per additional child weekly charge. Contact Maria Kerr for more details 01823 668700 prep@wellington-school.org.uk Willowset Preschool, Stoke St Gregory TA3 5HZ Our preschool, wrap-around care and Holiday Club offers care for children aged 2-14, from 7.30am - 6pm. Ofsted 'Outstanding'! Come and visit us to see our wonderful setting with free-flow indoor/outdoor play. Call for more information: T: 01823 491567

To book our Nursery Directory, please call 01458 250461

Sunshine Morning Nursery We provide a warm, loving environment in which to nurture each individual child. We follow the Montessori philosophy, providing a child friendly environment, catering for the development of the whole child. Our qualified, experienced staff prepare the setting with

a wide range of activities, allowing the child to make choices to follow his/her interests and needs. This encourages the child to be an independent learner, develops concentration and achieves personal fulfilment. Wider curriculum activities that take place regularly are

SUNSHINE MORNING NURSERY Contact Sue or Cathy: 01460 242250 or 07596 137415 16 Parent Talk February 2016

our orchard walks, singing to the residents of Burnworthy Care Home, nativity play, Sports Day, summer trip and various visitors to the setting. We have also taken over an allotment in South Petherton to support the children’s Health and Wellbeing. We encourage the children to learn about where our food comes from and make regular visits to the allotment to care for and grow produce. The fruit and vegetables are then prepared and enjoyed at snack time, if they get back to Sunshine and are not eaten on the way! Parent’s comment (Dec 2015) The staff are friendly and welcoming and easy to talk

to. They make nursery fun and enjoyable. Find out more about us by checking out our website:

Competition winners

www.sunshinemorningnursery. co.uk or follow us on Facebook to see our latest adventures! Ofsted (July 2015) – GOOD

The Edible Garden Show Nic Tall, Taunton Joy Turner, Birmingham Cut and Colour Playbook Mrs Louise Moon, Glastonbury Jennifer Rhymer, Burnham on Sea Andrea Miles, Nailsea Johannah Carroll, Windsor Mrs Dawn Hull, Newcastle Gruffalo® Daysack Alex Sheen, Taunton Claire Cole, Bridgwater Gary Hobbs, Taunton

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Sport at Queen’s College best of the best Queen’s College is well known locally for its sporting prowess and for the breadth of opportunities available to the students. The wonderful success Queen’s students enjoy has now officially been recognised in the ‘Best Independent Sports Schools of 2015’ league table published in school sports magazine. Hundreds of schools submitted their results in an effort to feature amongst what the magazine describes as ‘the best of the best’. Queen’s College is delighted to be ranked within the top 20 schools in the United Kingdom (16th place) as the only school representing Taunton to make it into the elite group. The results were based upon 20 different sports and more than 120 national competitions. Director of Sport, Simon Copeland, says ‘we are thrilled to gain such a resounding endorsement for the superb sport here at Queen’s. It is a

testament to the hard work of the students and the dedication of our talented staff and I know it will act as further motivation for our teams this coming season.’ The impressive development of sport at Queen’s College has seen the likes of Arul Suppiah (Director of Cricket) and Ian Haley (Director of Hockey) joining the coaching team and the trophy cabinet is certainly well used as a result. This term alone, Queen’s College report a candidate for the 2016 Olympic

training squad in Lillehammer, a Year 12 girl called up into the U18 England hockey team, an International Polo Team member selected to compete in Florida and the fastest U16 individual medley swimmer in the country. With their fabulous sports scholarship programme to nurture the very best talents, the coaching staff, facilities, dedication and sheer enjoyment of sport, it will be no surprise to see Queen’s College striving for the top spot in the 2016 table.

Alfred the Mouse Goes to School Alfred the Mouse Goes to School is an innovative new project that the Taunton Early Years Clusters are running across the more than 300 Somerset pre-schools they cover, supporting under-fives with the sometimes daunting transition to primary school. Each cluster pre-school can have their very own Alfred the Mouse soft toy, being distributed by Rachel Parish, Cluster Manager (schools and pre-schools should contact her at info@willowsetpreschool.org. uk to receive theirs). Children will be able to interact through a series of creative activities addressing specific areas within the Early Years Foundation Stage. These will support children’s imagination and development as they explore Alfred’s journey to school and through the journey reflect on their own upcoming transition. To accompany Alfred on his journey, Take Art has created a supporting Alfred the Mouse Goes to School website [www. alfredthemouse.co.uk], with a dedicated mini-site for nearly all of the primary schools in the Taunton clusters. Alfred can be seen taking part comfortably in the reception class and

Scholarship Opportunities into Years 7 and 9 Academic, Art, Sport, Music and Performing Arts For your application pack telephone 01823 340830 or email admissions@queenscollege.org.uk

TAUNTON wider school environment. The slideshow follows Alfred around the school to favourite places chosen with the reception classes. Some of the schools also have a soundscape. There is a surround-around (a full panoramic 3D view) of the reception class, through which practitioners, teachers, parents and children will be able to explore their child/children’s

future classrooms. Where a school has two reception classes, two panoramic views are included. www.takeart.org www.alfredthemouse.co.uk Supported by Somerset County Council through the Raising Achievement Plan, and by the Taunton Early Years Clusters.

An education for life Co-educational day & boarding ages 0-18 01823 340830 www.queenscollege.org.uk Parent Talk January 2016 17

BOOK REVIEW

Editor’s choice WHATEVER! By Gill Hines and Alison Baverstock Published by Piatkus When WHATEVER! was published in 2005 it was the first of its kind – a practical, hands on, no-nonsense guide for parents which recognised teenagers were more than tall 12 year olds and addressed the real issues experienced on both sides for both parents and their almostadult children. 10 years on, the landscape for everyone has completely changed and the authors are back with a fully revised edition of their parenting bestseller which now covers the rise of social media, sexting, cosmetic surgery and body image issues, celebrity culture and much more.

The Diary of Dennis the Menace: The Great Escape By Steven Butler Published by Puffin In the sixth book in the bestselling series, ‘The Great Escape’, Dennis the Menace – Prankmaster General and feared enemy of softies everywhere – has been sent to an elite boarding school. Help! Dennis is surrounded by bookish boffins, can’t hang out with the Bash Street Kids and is nearly starving as the school dining room only serves superhealthy food. What he needs is a plan. With a little help from his menacing buddies on the outside, some fart pellets and Gran on a Charley Davison bike, it’s time for Dennis to make his great escape.

Healthy Food, Healthy Gut, Happy Child The Real Dirt on Raising Healthy Kids in a Processed World By Maya Shetreat-Klein Published by Bluebird – a Pan Macmillan imprint Pioneering integrative paediatric neurologist Dr Maya Shetreat-Klein reveals the shocking content of children’s food, how it’s seriously harming children’s bodies and brains, and what we can do about it. She presents the first nutritional plan for getting and keeping children healthy – a plan that any family can follow.

Moon Princess By Barbara Laban Published by Chicken House Sienna is unhappy. Her mum has disappeared and Sienna feels alone in Shanghai. Rufus, an invisible dog, is her only friend. When her mean housekeeper starts acting suspiciously, Sienna decides to investigate. With the help of her new friend Feng, she follows a trail of clues that leads her to a mysterious moonlit temple. Is her mother’s disappearance linked to a priceless statue of a princess? And can Sienna discover the dangerous truth?

Mabel Jones and the Forbidden City By Will Mabbitt, illustrated by Ross Collins Published by Puffin What would you do if hungry vines emerged from your wardrobe and stole your baby sister? If you’re Mabel Jones and afraid of nothing, you’d follow! Between Mabel Jones and her goal is a dangerous jungle, filled with deadly monsters and poisoned jelly babies. Can she defeat the Witch Queen and rescue her sister, or is this the last we’ll see of Mabel Jones?

Alice Jones: The Impossible Clue By Sarah Rubin Published by Chicken House Maths whizz Alice Jones has already solved a mystery or two. Persuaded by wannabe sidekick Sammy to investigate a scientist’s disappearance, she’s soon entangled in her trickiest case yet. Dr Learner is reputed to have invented an invisibility suit, but is wacky science really to blame for his vanishing? Fearless Alice won’t stop till she knows the truth…

I am Bear By Ben Bailey Smith, illustrated by Sav Akyüz Published by Walker Books Meet the cheeky rebel hero of the forest in ‘I am Bear’ – the major new, rap-style, read aloud picture book by two first-time book creators, actor Ben Bailey Smith and storyboard artist Sav Akyüz. If there’s trouble, one thing is certain: Bear was there. In (and out) of his outrageous purple outfit, Bear can do anything – steal honey from bees, do magic tricks, steal doughnuts from a police officer, and annoy a certain pesky squirrel. A perfect picture book to keep young mischief makers in stitches. The Little Book of Woodland Bird Songs Published by Fine Feather Press "The Little Book Of Woodland Bird Songs" features twelve songs from some of Britain's best-loved feathered friends who inhabit the forests and woodlands throughout the UK. Originally designed for young children, these sound books turn out to be popular with the whole family and especially among parents and grandparents who have fun learning with their offspring. The solid board pages are chunky enough for the smallest of hands to manage, and include beautifully illustrated information about each featured bird. As well as describing their habitat, feeding habits and physical appearance, there is also a little known fact about each bird - did you know that pheasants occasionally launch territorial attacks on people, animals and even cars? What brings these books to life is the sound bar, which enables you to identify each different bird by its song.

Pass it On Written and illustrated by Sophy Henn Published by Puffin Should you spot a thing of wonder, jump for joy and pass it on… A playful and life-affirming picture book about positivity and finding happiness in everyday things. ‘Pass it On’ is a truly inspiring, whimsical read for children and parents in equal measure.

Free sticker book gets families to libraries Children can collect stickers every time they visit a library and put them in special sticker book to take home. Children’s reading charity, BookTrust has written and produced a sticker storybook to encourage more children to visit their local library in 2016. The new book called, Bear’s Reading Adventure, was developed in partnership with Igloo Books, after librarians reported that families need more encouragement to visit libraries. It is free from libraries for families with children aged 0-5 years. 18 Parent Talk February 2016

The story follows BookTrust’s blue bear mascot on his reading adventure, which takes him to the park, supermarket and of course the library. However, there are ten objects missing from bear’s adventure which children are tasked with finding. Children will earn a sticker of the missing object every time they go to the library, which BookTrust hopes will encourage families to visit the library regularly and read together every day. Author of Bear’s Reading Adventure and Director of Engagement and Marketing

at BookTrust, Gemma Malley said: ‘Libraries are a wonderful resource, whatever your age. If you haven't joined your local library or visited for a while, then do take a moment to see what's going on. ‘Reading with your child is fun, and a great way to spend time together. If a parent reads to their children every day they will be almost 12 months ahead of their age group when they start school. Even reading to them three to five times a week gives them a six-month headstart over those who are read to less often.’

When children have collected all ten stickers they can download a certificate from www.bookstart.org.uk/ bearsadventure which also contains more tips for families on how they can have fun reading together every day. Early Years Facilitator & Bookstart Coordinator in Cornwall, Deborah Averill said: ‘The quality of the book Bear’s Reading Adventure is fantastic and children will love visiting the library to collect their stickers. A great incentive and fun too!’ BookTrust created Bear’s Reading Adventure to help

libraries achieve the aims of the Association of Senior Children's and Education Librarians’ (ASCEL) Children’s Promise, to provide more opportunities for families to participate and engage with their local library services; and to make library visits inspiring and exciting. The sticker storybook is being piloted in selected libraries across England. The book was illustrated by popular children’s illustrator, Jo Byatt, who said: ‘I was honoured to illustrate for such a wonderful project. My two girls have enjoyed BookTrust books in the past, so

to be given the opportunity to recreate such wonderful characters to encourage children to use the library was a dream.’

CLASSIFIED

What to sign up for in 2016 If you sign up for just one Big Physical Challenge this year, then make it Walking With The Wounded’s fun, challenging Cumbrian Challenge 2016. Every team that takes part supports another wounded veteran back into employment. WHAT: The Cumbrian Challenge is Walking With The Wounded’s annual flagship fundraising event in the Lake District for teams of four. This year the challenge is available to people of all fitness levels and determination with a new, easier route. In addition to the ‘Tough’ and the ‘Tougher’ ‘The Peak’ teams will be tested over the beautiful fells of the Lake District. ● The Peak – 10km hike. Expected time: 4-11 hours (depending on experience) ● The Tough – 20km hike, 1,300m of altitude gain,

expected time: 5-11 hours (depending on experience) ● The Tougher – 30km hike, 1,800m of altitude gain, expected time: 5-11 hours (depending on experience) WHEN: 13-14 May 2016 (Friday night registration, dinner and briefing) WHERE: The challenge starts and finishes in Grasmere enabling one bustling HQ for the pre event race meeting and dinner, post event awards and BBQ evening event. COST: £200 per team of four and challenge to fundraise £1,000 per team (£250 each) in advance WWTW Partnership and Events Manager Andy Sloan said: “Everyone who takes part in the Cumbrian Challenge really feels like they have achieved something. It’s a fun event, but challenging in line with what we do, and in a

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Safer Internet Day

What is Safer Internet Day? Safer internet day, now in its sixth year, is coordinated by the UK Safer Internet Centre. The day sees hundreds of organisations involved in promoting safe, responsible and positive use of digital technology for children and young people. Tips for parents on internet safety from The Department for Education and UK Safer Internet Centre ● Have an open and honest dialogue with children about staying safe online ● Encourage them to tell you which sites they might be using and talk about anything they see online ● Set boundaries and make an agreement on what they can and cannot do online. If the agreement is broken, restrict internet access for an agreed period of time ● Read up on information available through schools and official sites, such as ParentInfo, to make sure you are aware of issues and armed with information ● Arm your children with advice: ◆ Be careful what you say online. Respect others and do not retaliate or reply to offending e-mails, text messages or online conversations – leave the conversation ◆ Be careful what pictures or videos you upload. Once a picture is shared online it

cannot be taken back ◆ Only add people you know and trust to friends/followers lists online What is Government doing about internet safety? In 2014 the Government made internet safety a compulsory part of the curriculum. Schools are also able to teach e-safety during PSHE lessons and every school is required by law to have measures in place to prevent all forms of bullying including cyber-bullying. In December last year the Government also announced strengthened measures to protect children from harm online - including cyberbullying, pornography and the risk of radicalisation. Under the proposals all schools will: ● Need to have appropriate filters and monitoring systems, so that no child can access harmful content via the school’s IT systems and concerns can be spotted quickly; ● Be required to ensure that they teach their pupils about safeguarding, including online. The Government also announced a further package of measures including: ● Two practical guides on social media – including one to help parents keep their children safe online produced by the UK’s Council for Child Internet

Safety (UKCCIS) – to help children understand the risks and benefits of social media, and prevent risks becoming problems. ● New online training, launched in the new year, will offer support for professionals, including nurses, doctors and teachers who work with children and young people. ● An updated Thinkuknow site offers a completely refreshed suite of articles and guidance on all aspects of child internet safety, as well as providing specific advice for parents and carers on preventing their children from becoming victims of sexual abuse and exploitation both online and in the ‘real world'; and ● New industry-led awareness raising initiatives including Google’s ‘Internet Legends’ tour which will travel around the country delivering assemblies to school children in 40 locations during this school year, to help kids stay safe online, so they can get the most out of all that the internet can offer. In addition ParentInfo, a new Government funded online service, offers free expert advice to schools on how children and young people can stay safe online. This information, packed as a Tool Kit, can be hosted on individual schools websites making it easily accessible to parents and carers who can

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