June 2015 Parent Talk

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

June 2015 Volume 22 Issue 6

Win Tickets to

RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day Facebook “f ” Logo

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Saplings Ages 3 - 5 Wrap around care 8am - 6pm Newfacilities facilities Saplings New forfor Saplings Early Years Vouchers accepted The Park School, Yeovil, Somerset, BA20 1DH The Park School, Yeovil, Somerset, BA20 1DH The Park School, Yeovil, Somerset, BA20 1DH Tel: 01935 423514 Tel: 01935 423514 Tel: 01935 423514 www.parkschool.com admin@parkschool.com admin@parkschool.com www.parkschool.com www.parkschool.com admin@parkschool.com Facebook “f ” Logo

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FAMILY FAMILY FAMILY

Parent Talk June 2015

Parent talk Somerfest 2015 June 20th 11am-5pm

contents

Family Pages Out & About Holiday courses Book Bag News Education, Information Book Review Classified

p2-4 p5-7 p8, p13 p9-12 p13-18 p18 p19

competitions RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day

p3

Somerfest June 20th will celebrate Somerset by bringing the countryside into Taunton for a day of performances, music, sports and arts in a spectacular mid summer outdoor festival. At the centre, there is a colourful river parade and a fun packed programme of sports, street theatre, acrobats, Brazilian dance, trapeze artists, street bands and performances in Castle Green, the High Street, Goodland Gardens and Somerset Square.

The river parade starts from Castle Green at 3.30pm organised by Somerset Wildlife Trust and Fuseperformance celebrating the Routes to the River Tone as well as Otters Tales puppet shows, wildlife activity area, a secret fairy tale

MORE COPIES? Don’t forget to follow us on twitter

@parenttalksw and facebook parenttalksw www.parenttalk.org.uk Tamsin Humphreys Juliet Young Sarah Harmer 24th June 2015

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?

Parent Talk Newtons, Churchstanton, Taunton TA3 7QF

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

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

Dear Readers...

Are we all set for summer? Yes we are! It’s going to be a scorcher they say but I remain to be convinced! Regardless of the weather though, there’s no escaping the fact that the summer holidays bring weeks of freedom for the kids and headaches for many parents as they struggle to cope with the logistical headache of childcare. There are plenty of courses on offer though so that the kids really can enjoy everything from art & craft to zip wire with dance and tennis thrown in! If you hear anyone mention the b word (bored!), there’s always the summer of adventure website that they can take a look at for inspiration. We’ve joined up with them to give you a few ideas in our book bag pages. Those lazy, hazy days just get better and better!

Best wishes

Tamsin Editor

Competition winners Sherborne Castle

Karen Bristow, Langport Mrs Sue Whitehead, Yeovil Moomins

Fay Smith, Frome Claire Tucker, Cheddar

garden, sports activities and an underwater fire juggler with Merlin from Britain’s got Talent.

Taunton’s very own Town Crier will direct you to where you need to go. Musicians and dancers will add to the festival atmosphere. Somerset Square will host the outdoor Live Music Stage. Go Create artists will be offering free arts workshops.

Cream teas will be served from the Cafe Terrace at the Brewhouse Theatre. From the river pontoon, you will be able to take free boat excursions on the River Tone.

Enjoy the local food and drink at the town’s restaurants, cafes and pubs, visit Bath Place and enjoy the county markets bringing some of the best Somerset arts and crafts, produce and Somerset cider.

visit www.somerfest.net Twitter: @somerfest, Facebook: Somerfest For further information, please contact: Sally Mann Telephone: 01458 259638

01458 250461

Editor Advertising Production July deadline

3

Pan-European study finds that British pets have chewed their way through £358 million ‘dog and bones’ in the last five years It might be envy at being displaced as ‘man’s best friend’ by gadgets but Europe’s dogs - and cats - are making it abundantly clear who they think their owners should pay more attention to. In the last five years, Poodles, Alsatians, Burmese cats and British Bulldogs have munched their way through more than £1.5 billion worth of phones, tablets and laptops according to a pan-European study by SquareTrade.

British pets alone have gnarled their way through £358 million in hi-tech gadgetry in the last five years, topping the league table. Fourteen percent of UK homes have had technology damaged by their pets.

The findings in detail: l Pets mistaking their owners’ devices for chew toys caused the most accidents. l Pets with overactive paws and wagging tails also caused damage by knocking devices off tables, spilling liquids on them, and stepping or jumping on them. l Owners with overweight pets have to be particularly careful, as they are statistically more likely to cause an accident. l Those with both a cat and a dog are in for double the trouble, as they are 85 percent more likely to cause an accident.

“Pet owners are wasting extraordinary amounts of money on repairing phones,

20 June 2015 11am-5pm Taunton

FRE www.somerfest.net FAMI E Contact 01458 259638 EVENLY www.facebook.com/somerfest T

tablets and other handheld devices that have inadvertently become luxury doggy chews,” said Kevin Gillan, European managing director for SquareTrade. “The rhyming slang for phone in Britain is ‘dog and bone’ and part of me wonders whether our pets

might be picking up on this a bit literally – at our cost.”

“Pets have the same range of emotions that their owners do. Just as often as they are happy, they can be jealous, bored or angry,” said Arden Moore, certified dog and cat behaviourist and world-

renowned pet expert. “While pet owners may be tempted to pick up their electronic devices the moment they get home, it’s important to give their furry friends just as much attention – or pet hijinks can become the norm.”

competition

WIN

RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day 2015

The intensity, drama and spectacle on offer at the RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day in Somerset on Saturday 11th July will be an experience not to be missed.

The Royal Navy’s premier award winning airshow

is one of the Southwest’s most notable one day events, attracting over 30,000

visitors, and will return this summer with an actionpacked day out for families and enthusiasts alike.

Parent Talk have 2 family tickets 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: 24 June 2015, 6pm.

When is the RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day 2015?

A full list of participants, further information and discounted advance tickets are available from www.royalnavy.mod.uk/yeovilton-airday

follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

4

FAMILY FAMILY FAMILY

Parent Talk June 2015

Special offer at Studio H Photography Studio H Photography, is run by qualified photographers, Graham and Trixie Hiscock from their studio, based in Wincanton, Somerset.

Offering a blend of relaxed and creative photography, Trixie loves to photograph clients of all ages from maternity, newborn and toddlers, to teens and family groups. Graham specialises in wedding (BIPP SW Region Wedding Photographer of the Year 2013) and commercial photography (BIPP SW Region Commercial Photographer of the Year 2014).

“Photography in our studio is relaxed and fun” says Trixie “and we take the time to really get to know our clients and their requirements before we even start taking pictures”.

Studio H Photography offer a complete image service of

prints, canvas wraps, acrylics and framed prints, as well as the opportunity to purchase the digital files - all very

reasonably priced.

Trixie, one of the area’s leading newborn and baby photographers, is in her

Ideal for toddlers, everything in one at Torridge House Cottages element working with the varied range of props and backdrops available, making your photographic experience both positive and memorable. She is also the MPA qualified ‘Cherubs’ Photographer in this area.

The cherubs scheme offers a unique opportunity to have your baby photographed at 4, 8 and 12 months for just £39 - amazing value which includes a free triple folio at the end of the year.

Gift vouchers are also available, with family vouchers being very popular.

To see examples of Graham & Trixie’s work, visit www. studiohphotography.co.uk or call 01963-34189 and quote ‘PT10’ to claim 10% on any orders.

An oasis of serenity at The Valley Hidden away behind secure entrance gates lies thirteen acres of gardens and woodland in the heart of Cornwall. This oasis of serenity features a unique collection of luxury selfcatering holiday cottages offering the perfect family escape at any time of the year.

Only a few miles from the city of Truro and the bustling port town of Falmouth, The Valley provides the ideal base to explore the best of Cornwall, with heritage sites, outdoor activities, and stunning beaches all within a 30 minute drive.

The exclusive leisure facilities include indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools, a separate games

room, fitness suite, tennis and squash courts. There are play areas with swings for children of all ages.

Leave more room in the car for the fun stuff and take advantage of the complimentary highchairs, stair gates, bed guards and standard travel cots, as well as a superb selection of toys, DVD’s and books to borrow from reception or whilst dining in the stylish yet child-friendly restaurant, Café Azur.

If you want to be truly indulgent, Café Azur’s delicious menu can be enjoyed in the comfort and privacy of your own cottage; perfect for those evenings when you are

tired from family days out exploring Cornwall’s many attractions.

Alternatively you can arrange for one of The Valley’s qualified

babysitters to take charge of your little ones and grab a grown-up night out in one of the superb restaurants in nearby Truro or Falmouth.

Warm, relaxed hands on holiday fun at Torridge House - a family place, a happy place with thoughtful provision of everything for toddlers and babies.

Surrounded by fields, overlooking the gentle rolling hills and the richly wooded valleys of beautiful North Devon, Torridge House Cottages is literally a breath of fresh air. An amazing place to experience the magic and silence of the countryside, the fresh sweet air, the stars in the night sky, the many things to do in the day time, the round of animal feeding, the day out to attractions, beaches, walking, cycling trails, fishing villages, markets. Then back to enjoy a drink while the children run and play in the wide open gardens.

The 9 cottages are in a delightful private garden setting. The heated outdoor swimming pool has a baby splash pool; the play room and garden has lots of toddler toys.

The games room provides for the older children, while the library has books and games for all ages.

For more details see www.torridgehouse.co.uk or phone 01805 622 542

Get the kids cooking early We run courses and parties for children during holidays and half terms.

These courses are for children from 6 years old. Children from 6-8 years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Our aim is to teach good basic skills and methods in a fun relaxed atmosphere. It is

not all cookies and fairy cakes but good main dishes they can use in the future.

The courses run for 3 and a half hours and a number of dishes will be prepared by everyone. We all then sit down together to sample what has been made. We also make something for them to take home.

The cost is £15 per child.

The next dates are 28th and 29th July and 11th and 12th August from 1pm-4.30pm.

Birthday Parties: The

Birthday parties are run on the same basis for up to 16 children. The cost is £100 for up to 6 children then £12.50 for each extra child and includes invitations, all ingredients and goody bags.

We also run varied adult workshops, hen parties, birthday parties and team building sessions in the spring and autumn.

Please call Venetia Cameron-Rose on 01823 432419 or email venetia@ cookability.com

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.

Graham & Trixie Hiscock LMPA

Portraits Commercial

www.studiohphotography.co.uk 01963-34189 or 07584-195311 e-mail: trixiehiscock@googlemail.com

Weddings Events

Feeding the animals is a gently paced and engrossing experience where the well being of the children and the animals is the highest priority.

On the little farm the pigs are always excited about their food; the ducks and chickens enjoy being let out, the baby rabbits, baby mice and the pony love meeting the children too.

The cottages, in a range of styles and sizes, are lovely; comfortable, very well equipped with nursery equipment freely available. June discounts, cottages from £386 pw.

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

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

Parent Talk June 2015

5

Plenty to do at Dunster

Escot Camp Wild wins best kids camp

Make a daisy chain, hunt for bugs, climb a huge hill, skim a stone…. Phew! There’s plenty to do at Dunster Castle and Gardens this June. Pick up your “50 things to do before you’re 11 and ¾’s” scrapbook from our reception and start exploring. Play poo sticks from the bridges, roll down a hill and don’t forget to come back and tell us all about it and claim your sticker. How many will you complete this year?

regarded and prestigious Primary Times Reader Star Awards.

Camp Wild is set on the Escot Estate in Devon which occupies 1100 acres of woodland, farms, parkland, lake and river. Designed to blend into Escot’s unspoilt setting with highly innovative summer camp activities from California, Camp Wild delivers a programme that is totally unique and a sure-fire winner

with young visitors.

Just for kids aged 7-12 or 6-12 for day camp, Camp Wild accommodation is at Yurt Village where children sleep in the yurts and their days are spent out and about on the estate, feeding the animals, building rafts for river fun, learning bushcraft skills, playing games and when Escot closes its gates to visitors the park becomes the private playground for

Camp Wild before children settle down around the camp fire for stories, toasting marshmallows and evening BBQ… A perfect summer full of happy memories.

Camp Wild takes place for the first 3 weeks of the summer holidays for day camp or residential bookings.

Yurt Village is also available for school or group residential visits from May to the end of October.

Find out more please visit www.escotcampwild.co.uk or call 01404 822188

Escot’s Camp Wild Voted

Kids Camp.

hunting for bugs Dunster Castle and Gardens Go on a bug hunt, make a daisy chain or skim a stone.

How many ''50 things'' will you tick off at Dunster Castle?

Members and under 5s go free.

01643 821314

nationaltrust.org.uk/dunster-castle

© National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.

Escot Camp Wild was voted favourite Kids’ School Holiday Camp in the highly

Follow our family explorer trail around the gardens and you’ll be cloud spotting one minute and defending the Castle from Vikings the next, all whilst learning about the Castle and its history. £2 per trail including prize.

Open seven days a week you can explore the gardens, discover a Pixie Well , watch the Watermill at work, call for the dumb waiter in the Castle, picnic in the garden and play lawn games on Green Court.

What will you do first?

For more information on opening times and upcoming events please visit our website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dunster-castle or call us on 01643 821314.

Best Summer

Now booking for Day Camp & Residential.

www.escotcampwild.co.uk 01404 822188 Escot. Ottery St. Mary, Devon EX13 7PU follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

events

Parent

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

. MARKETS . THEATRES . FAIRS . FETES . SHOWS . EXHIBITIONS .

5-6th June: The Bockety World of Henry and Bucket.

the egg, Theatre Royal Bath.

Henry and Bucket are best pals, although sometimes you wouldn’t think so! Like all good friends, they have their ups and downs, their shared adventures and, at times, their need for their own space. But as long as these two friends are together, transforming their rusty, dusty, battered and bockety world into a place of wonder, their adventures can take them anywhere!

Poetic, humorous and rich in narrative, this is an intriguing, thought-provoking exploration of friendship. Age: 4+. 01225 823409.

6th June: Sustainability Fair.

Glastonbury Abbey grounds.

Locally, sustainably and ethically produced food, drinks, crafts and trades. Regular talks and demonstrations throughout the day and environmentally themed craft activities for children. Free entry from 12 noon. 01458 832267

6th June: Make & Tell Craft Fair. Minehead Methodist Hall.

10am-5pm. Craft and vintage wares by local producers and pop up tea shop. 07592 117672 7th-9th June: Home. the

egg, Theatre Royal Bath. A place where I can be myself.

Live, eat, wash, sleep. A place where I can welcome others.

A place to leave and a place to return to. Home tells the story of a grown-up and a child who meet, get to know each other and build a story, a roof and a house together.

One of Italy’s most acclaimed companies producing work for young audiences, La Baracca’s previous visits to the egg have been with The Boat and the Moon, Spot and On/Off. Age: 1-5 yrs. 01225 823409 9th June: The Jazz Dance Company’s Silver Screen Tour. The Playhouse, Weston

super Mare. A celebration of dance from film, ranging from movies and musicals to the emergence of pop videos to the present day. A wonderful night out of live performance for any dance or theatre enthusiast. 01934 645544

10th June: The Jazz Dance Company’s Silver Screen Tour. The Octagon Theatre,

Yeovil.

A celebration of dance from film, ranging from movies and musicals to the emergence of pop videos to the present day. A wonderful night out of live performance for any dance or theatre enthusiast. 01935 422884

Holiday Clubs, Parties and Adult Workshops Having a Birthday?

Bodley Craft Parties.

No Stress, No Mess.

Holiday Clubs for 8-12 year olds During School Holidays

Bodley Craft: 07525 127878 sjr1509@yahoo.co.uk or follow us on Facebook

Leave the party to us!

11-12th June: A Performing Arts Showcase 2015. Strode

College, Street. Strode College performing arts students will showcase the best of their work over the past academic year. 01458 442846

11th-14th June: Ilminster Midsummer Experience.

Dozens of events covering the arts, sports, exhibitions, a food and crafts show, a family dog show and much more. 01460 54364

13th June: Sway Dance Show. The Playhouse, Weston

super Mare. Back for the third year in a row but this year with an exciting twist on a well known story. A packed evening of Dance, Drama and Music provided by the Sway Dancers from Hutton Moor Leisure Centre. 01934 645544

will be unique featuring a different cast with a wide variety of skills and talent on show. 01458 442846

19-20th June: Music Made Visible.

Regal Theatre,

Minehead. With an entirely new show and choreography and music to suit all ages, the LA Dancers and students from The Dance Centre return to the Regal with Music Made Visible. Musical styles will include Streetdance, Commerical, Musical Theatre, Hiphop and Contemporary to the sounds of various artists.

01643 706430

20th June: Othery Street Fayre. Othery’s 25th Annual

Street Fayre has events running from 11am to 11pm.

A fantastic fun family FREE day out. 01823 698976

13th June: Big Red Bath.

20th June: Tree Fu Tom.

the egg, Theatre Royal Bath.

Rubba-Dubba-Giggle, RubbaDubba-Laugh, there’s magic to be found in the Big Red Bath.

It’s the end of a busy day and it is almost time for bed, and Ben and Bella are in the bath.

Come with us on a bubbly, barmy bath-time adventure around the world and home again celebrating all things bath-time. A quirky, vibrant and humorous adaptation of Julia Jarman and Adrian Reynolds’ popular children’s picture book that blends music, song and humorous characters. Age: 2+. 01225 823409 13th June: Craft Fair. Lytes Cary Manor, Nr Charlton Mackrell, Somerton. Local craftspeople offering hand made gifts and produce from pottery, woodwork, textiles, photography, mosaic wall art, jams and chutneys and much more. 01458 224471

Join CBeebies star, Tree Fu Tom, as he takes to the stage in his first nationwide ‘live’ tour! Follow Tom, Twigs, Ariela and friends on an action packed adventure through the magical world of Treetopolis!

After finding a dusty old map, Tom decides to follow where it leads and see if it will take them to any mysterious hidden treasure – but it’s not an easy route to follow. Tom and his friends must travel through wild weather and catch the mischievous Mushas who are making trouble along the way!

The Octagon Theatre, Yeovil.

01935 422884

13th June: Curry Rivel Live.

Family festival in Curry Rivel, near Langport. Over 10 acts on 1 stage, bar, food stands, stalls, kids fun zone, music from 1pm.

14th June: The Somerset Colour

Great Run.

Hazlegrove School, Sparkford Roundabout, Yeovil.

The Great Somerset Colour Run is Somerset’s most creative and vibrant 5k! Get plastered in powder paint as you walk, run, hop and skip around the course. Set in the beautiful grounds of Hazlegrove School, an army of volunteers will be taking aim and throwing powdered paint at hundreds of runners and walkers, making the kilometres race by! Age: 7+. 01823 365615

14th June: The Sustainability Show & Taunton Food Fair.

Queen’s College, Taunton.

10am – 4pm. A free family event showcasing how to lead a more sustainable life. Live music, food and drink outlets, displays and entertainment.

07952 896995

15th-17th June: Mid Som Musical Spectacular 2015.

Strode Theatre, Street. Pupils from schools, music clubs and drama groups in Mid Somerset will showcase their musical talents over three performances. Each evening

20th

June:

Somerfest.

Taunton Town Centre. 11am5pm . 01458 259638. See p3 for further details.

20th June: Cannington Walled Garden Summer Fair.

Church Street, Cannington.

10am-4pm. Celebrate the summer at the second annual Summer Fair and marvel at the spectacular colours and wildlife the Gardens have to offer. Free entry. 01736 366579

20th-21st June: Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom. The

Playhouse, Weston super Mare. “Somewhere, hidden amongst the thorny brambles is a little kingdom where everyone is very, very small…”

From the makers of Peppa Pig comes this BAFTA awardwinning television animation live on stage! Holly is a young Fairy Princess who is still learning how to fly and her magic doesn’t always go quite according to plan. Her best friend, Ben the Elf, doesn’t have wings and he doesn’t do magic, but he runs very fast and flies on the back of Gaston the Ladybird. They live in the Little Kingdom, a tiny land where flowers and grass rise high above them and every day is an adventure. Join Ben and Holly and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter. 01934 645544

20th-21st June: 2015: Weston Air Festival and Armed Forces Day. Seafront,

Weston super Mare. A weekend including thrilling air

displays, military exhibitions, arena performances, fun fair rides and a variety of activities and refreshments. 01934 626982 21st June: Father’s Day BBQ, Hestercombe House and

Gardens, Cheddon Fitzpaine, Nr Taunton.

Celebrate Father’s Day with a sizzling BBQ, sports and games – whatever the weather! Adults £9.50/children £4.50. 123pm. 01823 413923

20-24th June: The Bishop’s Palace Garden Festival.

The Bishop’s Palace, Wells.

A celebration of the Great British Garden – join us for tours, talks and demos from experts and VIP’s, rare plants, garden essentials, market stalls, games and family fun.

21st June is Family Day with games, competitions, activities and a theatre performance of ‘The Secret Garden’ on offer.

01749 988111

25th June: Dinkies Storytime. the egg, Theatre

Royal Bath. Join Jackie and Pooja from our ever-popular Dinkies group as they bring your favourite stories to life in this fun storytelling session for pre-schoolers and their parents/carers. Age: 2½ 4yrs 01225 823409 Meet a farmer on 7th June

25th June: Midsummer Extravaganza! Regal Theatre,

Minehead. Minehead Middle Schools presents its second annual showcase of music, song and dance. The event will feature a wealth of young musicians, singers and dancers performing individually as well as in groups and ensembles. 01643 706430

27th June: You’re Getting Warmer. the egg, Theatre

Royal Bath. Hurry – we don’t have much time! The Three and a Half Degrees Gang are on their way, and you’re our only hope of slowing them down. Everywhere they go they are getting people hot and bothered. Agent Zero and Professor Helix need your help to save the Marsh Warbler bird before The Gang catch up with you. Are you up to the task of taking on this mission?

You’re Getting Warmer is an outdoor adventure for families and small groups which explores the effects of climate change in the UK. Armed with a smartphone and specialist app technology, you and your family are agents for change, hunting down clues and interacting on your mission to stall the Three and Half Degrees Gang. Age: 7+. 01225 823409

On Sunday 7th June, hundreds of farms across the country will be opening their gates to welcome the public for the 10th Open Farm Sunday.

This annual event organised

by LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming), offers a great

way for people to find out more about where their food comes from, talk to the farmers who produce it and get up close and personal with the countryside. Here are just some of the activities that can be done on our farms – how many have you done recently?

Watched cows being milked Met a farmer Sat on a bale of hay Taken a tractor and trailer ride Watched sheep being sheared Walked across a field or through a wood Crushed an ear of wheat Really looked into a hedgerow or stone wall

Felt a hairy gooseberry Dug up a potato or picked your own strawberries Seen vegetables growing Peeked at pollinators in action Gone digging for worms Sat in a tractor cab Held a newly hatched chick Listened to pigs grunting or cows mooing Seen a cow up close Tried pond dipping

To find out which farms in your area are taking part visit

www.farmsunday.org. For up-to-date campaign information and to let us know about your Open Farm Sunday visit go to our Facebook page www.facebook.com/openfarmsunday

Coming soon...

Folksy Theatre presents The Wind in the Willows Book ahead Sunday 12th July

Folksy Theatre as you’ve never seen them before. A classic family tale shown

outdoors, as nature intended!

5.30pm start.

Advance tickets: Adults £12, Children £8, Family £35 (2 adults, 2 children under 16 yrs).

OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT OUT & ABOUT

RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day 2015

7

Children challenged to grow the biggest pumpkin CHILDREN from Somerset are this month being challenged to grow the biggest pumpkin in the county

by Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre.

The intensity, drama and spectacle on offer at the RNAS Yeovilton International Air Day in Somerset on Saturday 11th July will be an experience not to be missed.

The Royal Navy’s premier award winning airshow is one of the Southwest’s most notable one day events, attracting over 30,000 visitors, and will return this summer with an actionpacked day out for families and enthusiasts alike.

RNAS Yeovilton was commissioned as HMS Heron on 18 June 1940 and Air Day 2015 offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate 75 glorious years. Over five hours of flying displays will feature historic naval aircraft

Parent Talk June 2015

such as the Swordfish, Seafire and Sea Vixen along with their modern day counterparts in spectacular role demonstrations and unique flypasts to acknowledge the contribution

by RNAS Yeovilton squadrons to Protect Our Nation’s Interests. Other UK military aircraft such as the Red Arrows, Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight as well as foreign military participants such as the Spanish Air Force Display Team – Patrulla Aguila will also feature in the flying display. Classic jets will also take to the air with displays from a Canberra, Hunter and

an extremely rare appearance in the UK by a MiG-15. The Vulcan bomber could quite possibly be making its last thunderous appearance at Yeovilton.

Throughout the day there will be plenty of entertainment for all the family including static aircraft, service demonstrations, military bands, helicopter pleasure flights, a fairground, vehicle exhibition, simulator rides, trade stands and much more.

A full list of participants, further information and discounted advance tickets are available from www.royalnavy. mod.uk/yeovilton-airday

The garden centre is giving away free packets of Thompson & Morgan pumpkin seeds for children to plant and grow.

Andrew Pitman, Store Manager at the award-winning, independent, family-run garden centre at Monkton Heathfield near Taunton, said: “In our bid to get more children gardening we have decided to run our pumpkin growing competition again.

“We’re inviting children from the area to take part as it is a great way to get children learning more about growing fruit.

“The packets of seeds are available from our reception desk. Families are welcome to pop in to pick up a packet to grow at home and are invited to stop for a browse or even lunch in our new restaurant while the kids play in the play area.

“The children can then plant the seeds and we will be inviting them to come back in October with their pumpkins so we can see who has grown the largest.”

(From left to right) Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre’s Seasonal Plant Supervisor and Vegetable Expert, Jane Earthy and Seasonal Plant Advisor, Sharon Michieli with the pumpkin seeds for the competition.

The top prize for the child with the largest pumpkin will be a £25 garden centre voucher.

They will also win a £50 voucher for their school.

Children must have their parents’ permission to enter the competition and the winners will be expected to

take part in photographs and publicity.

Andrew added: “We hope lots of children get involved. It’s always really exciting planting seeds and seeing how they grow, we’re looking forward to seeing how big the pumpkins get.”

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.

ROYAL NAVAL AIR STATION YEOVILTON INTERNATIONAL

AIR DAY

SATURDAY 11 JULY 2015

A SPECTACULAR FAMILY DAY OUT! SAVE WITH ADVANCE TICKETS TICKET LINE 0330 100 3656 BOOK ONLINE www.royalnavy.mod.uk/yeovilton-airday Advance Ticket Prices: Adult 16+ yrs £20 (£25), Child 5-15 yrs inc £6 (£12), Child U5 Free Please quote ‘RP’when booking. Tickets available from Local Tourist Information Centres.

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF RNAS YEOVILTON YeoviltonAirDay15_ParentTalk_130x171.5.indd 1

18/05/2015 11:15

follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

HOLIDAY COURSES HOLIDAY COURSES

8 Parent Talk June 2015

Have a fun filled summer Millfield Holiday Courses at Kilve Court 20th July – 28th August 2015 For ages 6 –16

We are part of the Somerset Outdoor Residential Learning Service – providing residential experiences for all young people. We offer a variety of packages such as school residential visits, enrichment courses and activity courses in the summer holidays, everyone is guaranteed a fun packed and exciting time.

Summer holiday activity courses include both outdoor and classroom based courses, designed to be challenging and fun for ages 7 – 16. Day visits are also available for 6 – 16 year olds who would prefer not to stay away from home but are keen to try the activities we have on offer.

There are loads of exciting courses to choose from, covering subjects such as art, science, history, creative writing and drama, all of which are designed to enhance children’s educational experiences. Alternatively you

can spend your days trying your hand at as many different activities as we can squeeze into your stay, test your strength and coordination on our climbing wall, descend from the abseil tower, try out our high ropes course, mountain biking and grass sledging, to name just a few.

Our courses are taught by experienced tutors and designed for those who have

Are you looking for a new way to work out and have fun at the same time? Cardio Tennis is for you - FREE TRIAL! Would you like to learn to play tennis in just 6 lessons?

Tennis Xpress is for you - bring a friend and have a go!

Would your children like to learn to play tennis? We offer a comprehensive range of Mini Tennis LTA courses http://www.lta.org.uk/LTA-Mini-Tennis

enquiring minds, thrive on learning, enjoy creativity and wish to broaden their horizons beyond that of the National Curriculum. The courses are stimulating and thought provoking, helping to develop problem solving and thinking skills, extend knowledge, raise aspirations and increase confidence.

Check out our website for more information, or give us a call. 01278 741270 www.kilvecourt.co.uk info@ kilvecourt.co.uk

Making Holidays Fun! It’s hard to keep children entertained for the entire summer holidays, so why not give yourself a break and send them on one of the fantastic courses Millfield has to offer.

For activities on offer for ages 2-17, there really is something for everyone. All courses take place at either Millfield School in Street or Millfield Prep School in Glastonbury.

Help keep the kids active with a wide range of sports courses including football, badminton, cricket, tennis, rugby, netball and athletics. All of these courses are open to boys and girls of all abilities, and with no experience necessary

it’s a great opportunity to try something new.

There are also three fantastic hockey courses to choose from – a girls’ course, a boys’ course and a mixed junior course, as well as hockey academies for older children.

New for 2015, the Millfield Golf Course is open to players aged 10-14 who have some golf experience, providing a fun and challenging week of improving technically alongside games and challenges. All areas of the game will be covered with use of Millfield’s driving range, pitch and putt and short-game area.

If your kids would rather an all-round course with something different to try every day, then the MultiActivity course is an excellent choice. Activities range from a variety of sporting and nonsporting activities including arts and crafts, swimming, trampolining, t-shirt painting and many more.

For the younger ones (ages 2-4), Mini-Multis promotes 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, painting, dance, stories, and more.

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

Summer Multisports Camp

www.avenuetennis.com - 07793 720326 - 01278 782758

MILLFIELD HOLIDAY COURSES

MAKING HOLIDAYS FUN!

SUMMER HOLIDAY COURSES: Mini-Multis ages 2-4 Multi-Activity ages 5-14 Football ages 5-14 Cricket ages 7-14 Hockey for ages 7-14 (three courses available, ages vary) Netball ages 7-14 Tennis ages 8-14 Rugby ages 8-14 Athletics ages 8-16 Badminton ages 8-16 Golf ages 10-14 We also have Hockey Academies for school years 9-12 to prepare for JRPC or new season

01458 444 320 www.millfieldenterprises.com

Do you live in the Burnham on Sea area? Would your children like to try something NEW this Summer? OR Are you looking for energetic and exciting childcare from only £14 per day? Why not try our Summer Multisports Camp for children aged 6-12 years, 20th July to 28th August (except 17-21 August), Monday to Friday 8.30am to 3.30pm.

The multi-sports programme will be run by the

club’s coaching team who are all fully qualified coaches and so your children will benefit from high quality coaching whilst enjoying the activities on offer! Your children can join us either for a single day, every day for a week, or every day for the whole summer!

Our focus is on FUN with a typical day consisting of a wide variety of sports coaching, games and fun team tournaments interspersed with water fights, treasure

hunts, or quizzes and other indoor activities depending on the weather. With such a variety of activities on offer there will definitely be something for everyone.

TENNIS – HOCKEY – TAG RUGBY – FOOTBALL– DODGEBALL – CRICKET – ROUNDERS – AND MUCH MORE! Please visit our website www. avenuetennis.com to find out more about our facilities, our coaching programme and to

download our booking form.

Places are limited, and so if you would like your child to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity please book early to avoid disappointment.

RESERVE YOUR PLACE NOW! avenuetennisclub@gmail.com TEL: 01278 782758 MOB: 07793 720326 VENUE: The Avenue Tennis Club, The Grove, Burnham-on-Sea, TA8 2PA

Near to you – Mill on the Brue Outdoor Activity Centre, Bruton Summer holid

ays!

Day & residential ca

mps

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

We’re gearing up for the summer holidays and what a packed programme we have this year! Not only the residential camps but Summer Day Camps (7 –12 years) every week Mondays to Fridays, 8.30am to 5.30pm from 13th July.

There are themed days: Army, Jungle Day and Hunger Games, also two outdoor pursuits days to choose from. The activities are amazing – great fun, challenging, exciting, and different each day. The programme is written with at least five activities, plus snacks, drinks and a two course home cooked delicious lunch. Each group of kids has two instructors who

look after them all day, even during break times.

If you haven’t looked before find our website www.

millonthebrue.co.uk to see how much fun your child can have this summer. Whether it’s paddling up the River Brue,

making their own raft, flying down the zip wire, swinging from the High Ropes, cooking marshmallows over an open fire, or trying out their hand at archery, tree climbing, making pizzas in the clay oven, nipping up the climbing wall or tackling the assault course, it is full on fun all day.

Mill on the Brue has been operating for over 30 years so we are pretty sure we know what children like (that includes the delicious home made lunches and cakes).

We are not far from Bath, Frome, Gillingham or Yeovil.

Bring them in old clothes and we’ll do the rest!

Pre-booking essential 01749 812307 or info@millonthebrue.co.uk

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

Book Bag NEWS

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

19th June 1215 - King John signs the Magna Carta Richard, the Lionheart, King of England had spent much of his reign outside England fighting wars in the Middle East and France. To pay for these he had taxed the English heavily.

In 1199, Richard died and his brother, John became king.

John continued to fight wars in France but he kept losing battles. He needed more money so his government in England ruthlessly demanded more taxes from the nobility who were expected to pay tax if the King asked.

The Barons became very unhappy about John exploiting their loyalty and belief in his complete power.

They rebelled and took over London and forced John to negotiate.

King John signing Magna Carta, England, 1215 ©Photos.com

MAGNA CARTA On the 19 June 1215 at Runnymede King John signed the Magna Carta.

(This means Great Charter.)

It was the first formal document stating that a King had to follow the laws of the land and it guaranteed the rights of individuals against the wishes of the King. This meant people couldn’t be arrested, imprisoned or have their possessions taken away except by the judgement of his equals and/or the law of the land. This laid the way for trial by jury which means people are tried by their peers and guaranteed the civil rights of the individual.

The Magna Carta established the principle that the people of England, at this stage represented by the Barons, could limit the power of a King, if he was doing things that were not good for the country.

MEDIEVAL LATIN There are four surviving copies of the Magna Carta that were sent out across England to tell people what had happened. They are written in Medieval Latin on parchment.

Parchment is made by soaking sheepskin in lime and then stretching it very tightly between pegs in the ground and leaving it to dry. The skin is then scraped with a knife which creates a smooth writing surface.

It was very expensive so scribes wrote in small letters and often abbreviated words.

FUN FACTS ⁕ Before the Magna Carta, widows and daughters of Barons could be sold by the King in marriage in order to make money. ⁕ Of the 63 clauses of the Magna Carta only 3 are still in use.

The three include a defence of the rights of the English church, the liberties and customs of London and the right to a fair trial and only being arrested for a just cause. ⁕ The Magna Carta was authenticated by a royal seal rather than a signature and there is no evidence that King John could write at all. ⁕ The scribes used tiny writing and abbreviated words to save space because parchment was so expensive. ⁕ Runnymede was selected for both sides to meet because it was a large meeting place near Staines where the Barons had their HQ and the King’s place at Windsor. ⁕ It is the basis for constitutions throughout the world including the United States of America. ⁕ It was not written on the day at Runnymede but was written down at a later date by scribes working in the Royal Chancery. ⁕ The scribes made many copies of the Magna Carta which were sent across England but now only 4 survive.

www.bbc.co.uk/schools/primaryhistory/british_history/magna_carta

Book Bag NEWS Inspired by the imaginative play found in the Famous Five and the Adventure Series, the Enid Blyton Estate has partnered with The National Trust and is launching the Enid Blyton Summer of Adventure, which includes a programme of events and activity.

Family friendly partners to be revealed closer to the time will provide ideas such as creating imaginative walks in the park to cooking up tasty treats in the kitchen. These can be

found at www.enidblytonadventureday.co.uk, a new website offering tips, advice and downloads to help families be more adventurous this summer.

Join the fun at www.enidblyton.co.uk/adventureday for the latest on special events, adventurous ideas, competitions and much more including what to expect this Adventure Day (11th August). Start your adventure here‌.

www.enidblytonadventureday.co.uk

Book Bag NEWS

Den building Here’s a simple way to make a sturdy den in the woods. Once you’ve mastered this technique, get creative and have a go at designing and building your own shelter.

Jolly Good! You have your very

Get your den published on the Na

ture Detectives website - em

own tree-tastic den☺

ail a photo to: naturedetectives

@woodlandtrust.org.uk

Become snap happy this summer!☺ t secrets There are some well kep great shots when it comes to taking e than you iev but they’re easier to ach w… ho t think. Read on to find ou l

fessiona ☺You don’t needbepro st shots

‘stuff’ to get the out the right The perfect shot is all ab osphere. subject and the right atm ital gear dig The latest technical and od go a isn’t always essential – ective eff as t smartphone can be jus ture cap u yo and most importantly, if a t’s tha t’ the spirit of the ‘momen great start! ct

own gut instin ☺Listen to your ing that looks

If you see someth picture. interesting to you, take the can be es ag Sometimes the best im your m fro of everyday adventure of s point of view – close up

These instructions won’t make a foolproof den - use the materials that you find in the woods and adapt your structure accordingly. Please don’t cut anything down and don’t damage anything in your enthusiasm to construct the perfect den ☺

angles

☺Think abousut bjdiecffet refrontm the left, exotic plants, stran ge insects in their own habitat, a padd le splashing against the water...and wh at about a shot of a member of your fam ily being splashed by surprise whilst enjoying a beach holiday? Now that really is a shot!

☺Practice at home.

Practice taking a pi cture of something you love or somet hing that really interests you – eithe r at home or on a day out.

☺A beloved pet is the perfect moving practice subject, es pecially and as you gather confidence, you can put more of your skills into actio n by taking a great shot of your family and friends in actio n mode.

Look at your e down! Not only right or even upsid unique images, will you have some e time trying to mov you’ll have a great w ne up k and thin into new positions ing something. ph ra og ways of phot d you’ll have more Think abstractly an interesting results.

☺

☺See with your eyes, no t the lens If you’re on a qu est to capture a favourite mom ent, remember to put ! ng th hi yt e camera down an e let de t n’ Do an ☺ d n re ca al it ly tip lo ok nt at the landscap importa e before you st Probably our most rough your th art ll ro sn sc to apping. Somet g in pt imes memories be really tem e let de d an y are better than any of the da image, so take images at the end a cus or that fo go lo of od t ok ou an le litt d a have a long thin something k about . ht rig w ha ite t qu t yo ou u want to achieve didn’t come and record before you star t snapping. e ag im e th w ho Think of ☺But hold onit. wa s printed large scale if would look produced in a or even cropped or ra hy don’t you ask fo Visit different colour. W put fore you decide to www.familyadventurecompany.co.uk second opinion be bin? for more on adventure them in a recycling packed holidays.

www.enidblytonadventureday.co.uk

Book Bag NEWS Which car will arrive at the house first? Follow the maze to find out....

a h a h ha

ha

the rain? n i e t a d s owl Why don’t ’s too wet to woo!

Because it

What’s the diff erence between illegal and unla wful?

Unlawful is ag ainst the law and illegal is a sick bird! baby ghost? e h t o t y a s st e daddy gho o! h t id d t a h W ’re spoken t u o y n e h w Spook

Why was the archaeologist depressed?

His career was in ruins! ll from charging?

How do you stop a bu it card!

Take away his cred

How is the b aby bird lik e its dad?

He’s a chirp off the old b lock!

When Dad came home he was amazed to see Ben sitting on a horse, writing something. “What on earth are you doing there?” he asked.

“Well, the teacher told us to write an essay on our favourite animal. That’s why I’m here and Sam’s sitting in the goldfish bowl!”

SUPPORT SERVICES FOR EDUCATION

T R U O C E V L I K AY

D I L O H R E M M SU 5 1 0 2 S E S R U O C ABSEILING

RY ARCHE ARCHERY

CLOUT A RSE U O C S S A COMP ORATION L P X E H C BEA

T F A R C H S U B G CLIMBIN GILLS

CIRCUS SK TAL ART N E M N O R I ENV IL

AI R T Y S A T N FA ING

EDG GRASS SL OURSE C S E P O R HIGH MES INDOOR GA

JUMBLIES COURSE OW ROPES LO IKING B N I A T N U MO

G N I R E E T N ORIE IPPING

POND D RATION O L P X E E Z MA ARDING

OA B N I A T N U MO K NIGHT WAL LVING O S M E L B PRO

QUIZZHOEOSTING S

RIFLE S ILDING U B R E T L E SH

K L A W M A E STR

MS SUPERTEA LENGE L A H C M A TE TOCKS N A U Q E H NT WALKING O

V L I K .

W WW

K U .

O C .

T R U O C E

nursery DIRECTORY 14

Parent Talk June 2015

Bridgwater College Childcare Centre is open to

confidence and ability levels as children move up to the the general public and children Prep School. The children benefit from experienced of students, for children from four months to five years. There staff, specialist teaching and outstanding facilities is also a Holiday Play Scheme including an indoor swimming for children up to eight years pool and woods for Forest old. It has a secure outdoor School. “Hazlegrove children area boasting an ‘inspirational are happy children” says garden’, where children are Headmaster Richard Fenwick, encouraged to explore both “we simply want to provide the indoor and outdoor learning. very best education we can for T: 01278 441270 or the pupils in our care”.

E: childcare@bridgwater.ac.uk www.bridgwaterchildcare.ac.uk

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

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

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 Hazlegrove Nursery and Pre-Prep Sparkford.

Hazlegrove’s innovative Pre-Prep curriculum is outstandingly successful, evident in the increased

(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

NURSERY DIRECTORY NURSERY

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 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.

To book our Nursery Directory, please call

01458 250461

The staff are warm and friendly. Free after school care is available.

T: 01460 72051 www.perrotthill.com Pilton Preschool

Encouraging Confidence, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Compassion, Character and Sense of Community. A long established village Pre-school offering fun and inspiring play based learning & education for children aged 2-5yrs.

Monday – Friday 8.45am – 4pm term time, full or half days available. Sessions include Forest School, Yoga, Music and Movement, Woodwork, Sports and much much more...

Please contact us on

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

for further info or to arrange a visit.

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

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

To visit contact

admissions@queenscollege.org.uk T: 01823 340830

Summer starts NOW at Razzamataz!

Razzamataz Theatre Schools Yeovil is gearing up for its annual summer showcase.

As well as demonstrating all of the class pieces, some older students are busy preparing their own work to perform to friends and family, having

successfully auditioned for a spot.

All ages of student from Minis (4-5s) to Seniors (12-18s) will be involved in the shows, with all aspects of our varied curriculum represented: Musical

JUST DANCE STUDIOS & ACTIVITY CENTRE

Dancing, Sewing, Cooking, Gardening, Playing & more! Throughout August Call Emma on 07901 553602 www.just-dance-studio.co.uk

Theatre, Street Dance, Pop Singing, Physical Theatre, Drama and Commercial Dance.

Also this summer Razzamataz Yeovil will be offering their Summer Stage Academy in August. No need to be bored in the summer holidays.

Razzamataz offers a fun-packed week of performing arts for 4-16 year olds, including Dance, Drama and Singing, along with other activities building towards the performance for family and friends on the last day.

Finally some students will be off this August to audition for the Top Talent Agency, who work in partnership

with Razzamataz to secure professional acting and modelling work for children.

All our Razzamataz classes will give a real boost to your child’s confidence and help bring out your child’s true potential. Razzamataz Theatre Schools are the ideal place for boys and girls to learn about pop singing, street dance, musical theatre, commercial dance styles, drama and physical theatre.

For further information contact Claire on 01935 411128 or 07856 273166, or email yeovil@razzamataz. co.uk.

Visit our website: yeovil. razzamataz.co.uk

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

our website

www.wellington-school.org.uk

or call Maria Kerr to arrange a visit.

T: 01823 668700

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

Little Wellies

Term Time Toddler group.

Open to all pre-school children every Thursday morning 9.15-11.15 am, 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

Make it special with a Just Dance party

Parties are an occasion to remember at Just Dance Studios.

There are a variety of themes to choose from, for example, Frozen, Ugly Bug Ball, Popstar, Cinderella’s Ball and Craft/ Baking. Or you can choose your own theme.

We will decorate the room with scene setters, balloons, fairy lights and anything else to blend in with the theme. Your party entertainers will also dress up, which the children love! After the children have arrived, it’s on with the fun and games! If it’s a dance party, then we will do some dancing, however, if the theme isn’t dance based, we can create activities and crafts specifically for your party. For example, a

treasure hunt, party games, decorating crowns or pirate masks etc. Just Dance can also provide all the party food too. Everything is home-made on site in our kitchen which scored a 5 when inspected by the council.

Our face painters also do a fantastic job of entertaining the children. Your party can be held outside if you’d like, in our big, enclosed garden. Each child receives a certificate to take home and what better way to finish the party than with a Just Dance Party Bag. We can create themed party bags and with a choice of the traditional party bag, a cloth party bag or cookie mix jars, there is something for everyone!

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Wellington Prep School Exciting New Nursery Project Subject to planning consent being obtained, Wellington Prep School is developing its outstanding Early Years provision in exciting new moves.

The addition of a brand new nursery will significantly extend the School’s Nursery and allow more families to benefit from the quality of teaching. It will also enable the School to take children from two years old.

“The quality of our Early Years provision is well known and the inspection reports in 2011 and 2014 both judged our setting to be ‘Outstanding’ in all areas,” commented Prep School Headmaster Adam Gibson. “This success is due to an exceptionally strong team of staff and the close partnership we enjoy with our families.

Given this success, it comes as no surprise that the demand for places has increased so much that we now have a waiting list.”

The proposed new building will be on 175 Avenue, opposite the Prep School playground, and will care for two year olds.

Subject to planning approval it will be open in September 2016 and the existing nursery unit will remain in place and be dedicated to three and four year olds.

“Over the last six months we have developed plans with architects and visited other nurseries in order to create

the best possible child-centred, innovative and environmentally friendly design.

We are delighted with the proposals and we are currently discussing these with Taunton Deane Borough Council as we move through the planning process,” commented Adam Gibson.

To reinforce the strength of the Early Years provision, the new position of Head of Early Years has been created.

From September 2015, Miss Jemma Harvey-Jones will lead and manage the Nursery and Reception teams whilst based in the current Nursery.

Educated at Colyton Grammar School, University of Reading and Exeter University, Jemma was previously Assistant Head of the Junior School at St John’s International School in Sidmouth, where she spent six years. She was also responsible

for the mentoring of NQT staff.

She has recently been engaged in delivering tutoring for trainee teachers for the University of Buckingham and is currently training with EMLC to gain her NPQSL. “We are delighted with the appointment of Jemma to head up our Early Years section of the school,” remarked Adam Gibson.”

Her experience, enthusiasm and abilities will lead this exciting new project and we are thrilled with the development of our Nursery provision. We look forward to her joining us in September and seeing our children’s experiences in the Early Years going from strength to strength”.

Plans for the new Nursery can be seen in the reception area of the Prep School Office from early May and are subject to planning consent.

Parent Talk June 2015 15

Unique individuals valued at The Park School Every child should be happy, secure, valued and confident.

The Park School’s philosophy is to value every child as a unique individual, who enjoys learning and thinking for him or herself. The School provides a supportive and secure environment in which every child can flourish and learn at their own pace and in their own individual way.

Children aged 3 – 5 are accommodated in the Saplings building with their own classrooms and outdoor play areas. However, as an integral part of the School, the children in Saplings make full use of the Junior School’s facilities, such as the dining hall, playground and outdoor pond area.

The School’s role is to stimulate and encourage their development and enjoyment of learning through a variety of different activities in secure indoor and outdoor situations, through play and through structured and creative activities. The School encourages the growth of social skills and empathy amongst the children.

Relationships which the children develop with each other and with our staff are central to their happiness and lay the best possible foundation for their future. We very much hope that pupils will remain in our Junior School until they reach the age of 11 and beyond into our Senior School.

September 2015 brings a fresh start with fresh faces in Saplings and new staff joining the team, led by the Early Years Coordinator Mrs Heather Reed. Please call 01935 423514 for more information or to arrange a visit to the school.

follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

16 Parent Talk June 2015

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Bringing out the best Invest in your children’s future during their Early in your child Years

Set in twenty acres of beautiful parkland, Chilton Cantelo School is located near Yeovil and Sherborne.

The day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 3-18 encourages every child to be the best they can be with learning goals and objectives tailored to the individual.

Acclaimed for its family atmosphere, Chilton Cantelo nurtures achievement and boundless curiosity from Nursery to Sixth Form.

Our specialist teachers take both Nursery and Pre Prep pupils around the grounds and woodlands for regular nature rambles, wildlife observation,

planting and gardening and forest school projects.

The school provides termly and weekly boarding at competitive rates. Bus transport for pupils around Dorset and Somerset offers flexible daily routes as well as pick-ups on Monday mornings and drop-offs on Friday evenings for weekly boarders.

After-school activities ranging from chamber choir to rock workshops are provided as well as weekend activities for boarders.

School fees are inclusive.

There are no extra charges for after-school activities, lunches, weekend trips for boarders or learning support (where applicable).

Chilton Cantelo is part of Cognita Group, a world leader in independent education and the UK’s largest network of independent schools. Cognita is committed to raising standards of education and ensures that best practice is adopted in all aspects of school curricula, teaching and learning and school management

Call 01935 850555 to attend an Open Day or ask about our FREE WEEKLY PARENT AND TODDLER SESSIONS to sample our Nursery or Reception classes.

By Kathy McLauchlan: Head of Nursery and Pre Prep, Taunton School.

Research has proved that age 0 - 8 is the time that the most rapid intellectual growth takes place. This is the time when quality education, breadth of opportunity, experience and quality choice really do make a difference to attitude to learning and development.

We need to develop higher order thinking and a positive attitude to learning from an early age. All too soon young children lose their sparkle and zest when herded through a rigid, politically orientated and dominated curriculum which does not stretch or enthuse young minds. Our curriculum is flexible, it is active, and it is fun.

■ Early Years opportunity provides firm foundations for future learning.

■ High qualified staff coupled with specialist resources, intimate, homogonous groups are a recipe for success and all our children succeed as individual talents are nurtured.

■ How do we know what lines of possible development will connect and grow if we do not give our children opportunity to explore, create and make

from the earliest opportunity?

■ Our brains are the source of who we are because of our early experiences.

■ At no other time does such rapid intellectual and emotional growth and processing take place.

■ The more opportunities and experiences available, the more the brain develops and grows; making new neural connections.

■ We are forward thinking.

We have fun and meaningful experiences. We value the best of tradition and use proven methods and research to extend your children.

■ Our curriculum encompasses the outdoors,

outings, forest school, sport, drama, music, thinking skills and problem solving.

We have many enrichment opportunities and offer an extended day, knowing that families need cover in the holidays and after school while you work to afford opportunity.

All part of a creatively packaged offer.

Life at TS is probably not what you may expect. So please come and see for yourself. Feel the warmth of our family and see our vibrant children in action. We are all very accessible. For more information about how to come and spend a day with us please call 01823 703300.

Access all areas

Start your educational journey towards a degree

EXPLORERS STAY CURIOUS

We believe that mother nature is a wonderful teacher.

Discover how Forest School inspires young minds in Nursery and Reception.

OPEN DAY 26th JUNE 2015 Book now: 01935 850555 | chiltoncanteloschool.co.uk Chilton Cantelo School, near Yeovil and Sherborne

If you’ve spent some time away from education but are looking to get back into studying, then an Access to Degree course at Somerset College could be just the ticket.

All Access courses are equivalent to three A-levels, take one academic year to complete and allow direct progression onto degree level study within a related field. They’re designed to prepare you practically and academically for progression onto university studies, and are a fantastic way of equipping you with the skills and experience needed to make the next step in your educational journey.

Somerset College offers a range of Access courses,

including: ■ Health Studies ■ Nursing ■ Science ■ Social Science and Social Work ■ Business and IT ■ Art and Design ■ Journalism and Teaching These courses provide the foundations for universitylevel study in areas such as Midwifery, Podiatry, Nutrition, Psychology, Sociology, Journalism, Business and many more.

Financial Support is available

If you are 24 years of age or older, then in most cases you will be eligible to receive an advanced learning loan to pay your tuition fees.

The application process is easy, your household income won’t be taken into account and if you go on to successfully complete a degree after studying an Access course then any outstanding loan amounts will be written off.

You can apply now for Access courses starting in September 2015. For more information and to apply please visit www.somerset.ac.uk or contact 01823 336 331 enquiries@somerset.ac.uk.

SOMERSET COLLEGE ACCESS TO DEGREE COURSES Start your educational journey towards a degree.

Access to Degree courses are designed for those who would like to get into University studies, but have been away from learning for some time.

Each course is equivalent to three A Levels and allows direct progression onto degree level study within a related field.

Our range of Access courses are delivered over a 12 month period and are ideal for those considering a change in career.

Access courses are available in: • Journalism • Health Studies • Science • Business, IT and Computing

• Nursing • Social Science and Social Work • Art & Design

FINANCIAL SUPPORT Financial support is available to help cover the cost of tuition fees, allowing you to achieve your goals in an affordable way.

24+ ADVANCED LEARNING LOANS*

The application process is easy, your household income won’t be taken into account and you won’t have to make any repayments until your income exceeds £21,000 a year. * Eligibility criteria applies

To find out more and to apply 01823 366 331 | www.somerset.ac.uk | enquiries@somerset.ac.uk

APPLY NOW!

For September 2015!

18 Parent Talk June 2015

Editor’s choice

EDUCATION INFORMATION EDUCATION

Lola Pug

The Stress Cure

By Carina Lagnado, illustrated

by Emily Colenso Published by Book Guild The Adams family live in a country cottage, surrounded by their pets and the farm animals who munch the grass in the orchards. Isabel really wants one more pet – her very own puppy. Big? Small? Hairy?

Bouncy? They choose Lola, an adorable pug – but sometimes it’s hard being a little bit different. The village fair gives Lola a chance to shine and, before long, everyone loves her!

By Patrick Holford & Susannah Lawson Published by Piatkus A must have guide on how to cope better with life’s pressures, boost your energy and achieve greater physical and emotional health.

Circus Mirandus

By Cassie Beasley Published by Chicken House Micah’s grandfather Ephraim is gravely ill and Micah’s mean Great Aunt Gertrudis has arrived to take care of him. Being very close to his grandfather, Micah has listened to many tales about a mysterious magic circus his grandfather visited as a boy, where he was promised a miracle by the Lightbender, the circus’s greatest magician. With his friend Jenny in tow, Micah is determined to find out the truth of the Circus Mirandus before it’s too late, but he’ll have to wrestle with giant white tigers and his wicked aunt along the way. Will this stranger keep his promise and save his grandfather? And does the magical Circus Mirandus really exist?

The Book With No Pictures

By B.J. Novak Published by Puffin The most talked about (non) picture book in recent years, The Book With No Pictures turns the notion of the picture book on its head, by delivering a text-only story book for young children. Designed to make any reader into an extraordinary storyteller, it is packed with warm and playful humour.

Beginning – slyly – with the suggestion that non-illustrated books may seem boring, then going on to explain the rule that anything written on the page has to be said aloud by the adult reading the book. The book demands a shared reading experience, in which an adult is compelled to read the text aloud, no matter how “COMPLETELY RIDICULOUS” it is.

Collins Picture Atlas and Collins Children’s World Map

Illustrated by Steve Evans Published by Collins Collins Picture Atlas and Collins Children’s World Map are the perfect way to introduce children aged 4-8 to the countries of the world and their colourful cultures.

Beautiful illustrations and fun, fascinating facts take children on a journey of discovery, ideal for home learning whilst developing essential reading skills.

Hoot Owl! Master of disguise

By Sean Taylor, illustrated by Jean Jullien Published by Walker Books Hoot Owl is no ordinary owl – oh no! – he’s a master of disguise! And he will use his expert camouflage powers to trick his unsuspecting prey into succumbing to him! Tiny animals of the night…beware! But, somehow, Hoot Owl’s prey keeps escaping…Hmmm, perhaps he isn’t quite as masterful as he believes. Will he ever succeed in catching himself some dinner? Hilarity, ridiculousness and very bad costume changes abound in this wildly inventive new title.

Why learn Taekwon-Do?

Storm Horse

By Nick Garlick Published by Chicken House With his mother missing and his father dead, 12 year old Flip’s new home is a remote Dutch island.

Menaced by the local bullies and followed everywhere by a mysterious girl, he wonders how he’ll ever adapt to life on his uncle’s farm.

But everything changes the day a sinking ship leaves a drowning horse floundering in the waves. Risking his life to save it, Flip is told the horse may stay with him only if he can teach it how to work for its keep.

From that moment on a friendship grows. But can a boy and a horse really save each other? And what other dark storms threaten their hard-won happiness?

The UNICORNE Files: Alexander’s Army

By Chris d’Lacey Published by Chicken House After the success of his first assignment from the mysterious UNICORNE agency, fourteen year old Michael Malone is given another unexplained mystery to solve. When UNICORNE detect strange goingson in a comic book shop, Michael is sent to investigate – a task which is made all the more difficult by allies he can no longer trust, and an enemy he can’t actually see…

Alexander’s Army is the second novel in the UNICORNE Files series. Full of suspense and intrigue, it follows on from the gripping A Dark Inheritance, featuring a fantastic cast of characters and plenty edge of your seat action.

The Countryside Book

By Tessa Wardley Published by Bloomsbury This brand new collection of reflections and activities to do in the countryside from an author passionate about reconnecting both children and adults with nature offers ideas for a range of activities all of which will enhance the reader’s enjoyment of and engagement with, the natural world. Learn how to watch ‘mad’ March hares – and whether their boxing matches are for real. Discover the best places to see butterflies and how to encourage them to the garden. Find out how to navigate using just the sun and stars, and the best places to run wild in the country. Take part in some ancient and often inexplicable country rituals including cheese rolling, maypole dancing and wassailing.

The Little Gardener

By Emily Hughes Published by Flying Eye Books There was once a little gardener and his garden meant everything to him. He worked hard, very hard, but he was just too little (or at least he felt he was).

In this beautifully gentle tale Emily Hughes, the celebrated author of Wild, departs from the larger than life Wild-girl of her debut to pursue a little-r than life Gardener, in a tale that teaches us just how important it is to persist and try, no matter what the odds.

The perfect picture book to celebrate the start of the summer with ever delicately woven tapestries of illustrated magic, Hughes once again transports us to a world not unlike our own, but still brimming with fantasy and wonder.

Every parent wants the best for their child; Evolution Martial Arts provides children with a unique way to keep fit, control weight and become healthier. It’s not only physical improvements you will see; Tae Kwon Do teaches respect, discipline and helps to instill self confidence. Your child will develop into a well rounded individual and with guidance from professional instructors

they will be learning a really useful sport – to stay fit and keep safe. Also your child will become more focused, concentrate for longer and will benefit from improved social skills.

Evolution has something for everyone and with regular gradings and colour belt progression you will see your child positively improve and strive for their Black Belt.

Parents can learn a lot from Martial Arts too! Relieve stress and burn calories, make friends and boost self esteem; why not join one of our classes today. Call 07888 732312 or visit www.evoma.co.uk

New Kids Karate Class Opens in Wells Karate is a great martial art for kids to learn. It teaches them essential self defence skills, and being a traditional martial art it also encourages concentration, fitness and politeness.

Karate also creates a firm foundation for future martial art trainingno matter what style they decide to learn later on.

This new class is held every Monday 4.30-5.30pm in the Seager Hall, Wells United Church, Union Street, Wells.

There is ample parking in the Union Street car park. The class is for boys and girls aged 5-12. Now is an ideal time for kids to join as the class is just starting. Unusually for kids activities nowadays, parents pay as they go - a far less complicated way to pay.

It’s only £5/lesson (£4 for those on benefits, including Tax Credits, and those with more than one child training).

To begin with kids can wear loose fitting clothing.

To find out more information please visit the Facebook page www.facebook.com/

somersetkaratekids (you don’t have to be part of Facebook to visit the page). This has lots more information about the new Wells class, as well as information about the more established classes in Bridgwater, Street, and Glastonbury. It also has lots of other great resources including videos of some of the kids performing their Karate; articles about the benefits kids get and videos of some of the great Karate masters. Alternatively for more information you can phone/text 07811 185 944 or 01458 833 937.

KARATE KIDS Wells Bridgwater Glastonbury Street For kids aged 5-12 year olds Taught by master with over 32 years teaching experience 07811 185 944 or 01458 833 937 (after 5pm) or email clive@georges-inkwell.com

EDUCATION INFORMATION + CLASSIFIEDS

Parent Talk June 2015 19

Somerset Centre for Integrated Learning, in partnership with the University of Worcester, offer Foundation Degrees in Teaching and Learning the equivalent of the first two paying back your student loan Are you…

■ looking to get back into work after taking time out of employment?

■ looking to continue in education having successfully completed a Further Education course?

■ currently working with children or is this an area of work you would like to train in?

■ looking for an accessible opportunity that fits around your home commitments?

If so, a place on a Foundation Degree could be a fantastic opportunity for you. Somerset Centre for Integrated Learning, in partnership with the University of Worcester are Offering a Foundation Degree in Teaching and Learning.

We are hoping to run this programme from our training rooms in Taunton and Yeovil.

A Foundation Degree is

years of an Honours Degree.

We offer full-time Foundation Degrees which take two years to complete and consist of academic study integrated with relevant workbased learning.

You will need to be in paid or voluntary employment for a minimum of 1 day/10 hours a week. Students are only required to attend taught sessions once a week, term time only.

Our Foundation Degree in Teaching and Learning is more affordable than you may think. All students can apply for student finance to cover the tuition fee and may also be eligible for other loans and grants. Our course fees are competitive at only £6,500 per year compared to other providers’ £9,000 fees. The good news is you do not start

until you are earning over £21,000 per annum.

If you would like further information, please contact us on 01823 348263 or email SCIL@somerset.gov.uk for advice, guidance and an informal discussion

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Half of British holidaymakers still don’t ‘get’ the EHIC The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) has been around for more than 10 years, and nearly 1 in 10 UK adults who have been abroad have used it to get free or reduced cost medical treatment whilst travelling in Europe.

However, despite it being one of the most useful pieces of plastic you can pack for a European trip, 21% of UK adults who have been abroad have never heard of the EHIC, and many more are confused about the level of protection it provides.

According to new research from Gocompare.com travel insurance, half of UK adults who have travelled abroad wrongly believe that an EHIC entitles them to free emergency medical care anywhere in Europe and a further 5% believe that entitlement extends to them anywhere in the World while 7% believe that if they’re taken seriously ill or are badly injured in Europe, an EHIC entitles them to be flown home by air ambulance.

Unfortunately, although an EHIC is extremely useful, and can save you money on medical expenses in Europe, its benefits are more limited than many people think. Worryingly, 5% of survey respondents felt that having an EHIC meant they didn’t need travel insurance for holidays in Europe.

The EHIC facts - The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is free to most UK residents. However residents of the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are not eligible for EHICs. Parents and guardians can apply for EHICs for those aged under 16 and each member of a travel party must have their own EHIC. An EHIC entitles the bearer to the same level of state medical care provided to eligible nationals of the

EEA (European Economic Area) country they’re in. This means that the treatment may be provided for free, or at a reduced cost, in all EEA countries including Switzerland.

The EEA includes all 27 members of the European Union (EU) plus Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein. The EHIC is not accepted in Turkey as it is not a member of the EU or the EEA. However, the provision of state care varies from country to country and does not mean you can expect to be treated as you would if you visited your NHS doctor or hospital. Few EU countries pay the full cost of medical treatment as you would expect from the NHS. For example, in France a patient may be expected to pay for a consultation with a doctor but will have up to 70% of the cost reimbursed later. The patient may also be expected to contribute to the cost of staying in a hospital overnight.

There are also no guarantees that an ambulance will take you to a state hospital for emergency treatment, and many of the smaller hospitals and clinics found in holiday resorts are private. If you end up at a privately run clinic or hospital your EHIC may not be accepted.

Medical repatriation

When it comes to medical repatriation, the EHIC is of no use at all. An EHIC does not cover the cost of being flown home under medical supervision from any destination and the Government generally does not pay for British holidaymakers to be flown home unless there are very unusual circumstances. The costs of a medical repatriation can be huge - according to one insurer, the cost of flying one seriously ill British holidaymaker home from the Canary Islands by jet air ambulance was nearly

£23,000 - but in most cases the costs will be covered by a reasonable travel insurance policy. Without insurance, friends and family may end up footing the bill to get you home. £49 for a free EHIC!?

Only 54% of UK adults who’ve travelled abroad know that anyone eligible can obtain an EHIC for free. That figure drops to just 32% of 18 to 24 year olds. Unfortunately there are still plenty of online companies charging a packet to assist people with their applications, despite it being a very straightforward, 10 minute job.

One such company, which advertises on Google when searching for ‘EHIC’, calls itself ‘EHIC’ and has the web address http://www.ehicuk.org It describes itself as an ‘Application Assistance Service’ and charges £49.00. Although it complies with marketing regulations by having a link to the free, NHS application service and stating in their terms and conditions that they are a third party and not affiliated with the NHS, they do also make some interesting claims which might suggest that applying for an EHIC is more difficult than it actually is: “We work with all the European Embassy’s (sic) to make sure that UK residents can safely apply for their EHIC online. We employ highly trained consultants to comply with all applicable legislation.” - www. ehicuk.org/aboutus It only takes a few minutes to apply for a free EHIC on the NHS website: https://www. ehic.org.uk Caroline Lloyd, travel insurance spokesperson at Gocompare.com, commented: “The EHIC has been around for

more than 10 years, but half of British holidaymakers still don’t understand what benefits it can and can’t provide. There’s no doubt it’s a very useful piece of plastic to take with you when travelling in Europe, but it’s no substitute for having appropriate travel insurance.”

“Having an EHIC can help you to access free or, more likely, discounted emergency medical services whilst abroad but it’s not a guarantee that you won’t have to pay a thing, and it certainly won’t be any help if you need medical repatriation to the UK, which can cost thousands of pounds.

“Having an EHIC may also mean that you don’t have to claim on your travel insurance and pay an excess for minor injuries and some insurers will even waive the policy excess for medical claims where you’ve used your EHIC, but where it doesn’t cover the full cost of your treatment.

“However, holidaymakers should always arrange suitable travel insurance to ensure they’re covered for medical treatment and medical repatriation if necessary. And an EHIC won’t cover your baggage or reimburse you in the event of a cancellation of all or part of your holiday, whereas most travel insurance policies will. Look at an EHIC as complementing your travel insurance rather than replacing it or you could end up with a hefty medical bill.

“Finally, no one has to pay for an EHIC, so don’t be fooled by websites charging good money just to check your spelling and send you a reminder in five years when your EHIC expires. The official NHS website is simple, straightforward and free.”

For more information on the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), visit Gocompare.com’s guide at; http://www.gocompare. com/travel-insurance/european-health-insurance-card/.

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RYA Sailing courses for children aged 8-16 at Sutton Bingham Sailing Club running through the summer.

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BEAUTIFUL FAMILY HOME FOR SALE A detached Grade II Listed 16th Century character cottage on the edge of Long Load village. Entrance Hall, Sitting Room with Inglenook Fireplace & Flagstone floors, Dining Room, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, Rear Hall, Bathroom, 3 bedrooms, Enclosed walled garden, Parking & Garage. The house has been well maintained throughout and has gas-fired central heating. Good primary schools at Long Sutton and Ash and Secondary School at Huish Academy.

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Quirky handmade cushions find us at the Arts Centre Ilminster JULY issue copy deadline 24th June 2015 Call 01458 250461

follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk