WinterRainbowDirectory2009

Welcome Welcome to the winter issue of The Rainbow Directory Now that winter’s finally upon us family life on the Isle of Wight has never been better with all the new services and products available. We’ve got ‘Top things to do over the winter’ page 18, or try cooking a heart warming Toad in the Hole by Hungry Harry see page 9. As usual we have plenty of prizes for the competition see page 25. Take a look at the new look website to find out what is on for Island families at www.therainbowdirectory.co.uk and don’t forget to mention ‘The Rainbow Directory’ when making a call.

Find us on Twitter - have your say on our Blog The Rainbow Directory is now on Twitter go to rainbowiow it would be good to hear from you. Also on our website we have a diary of events so if you don’t know what to do over the weekend log on to, www.therainbowdirectory.co.uk or keep us as your home page. Have your say on our blog and add events, school news, just let us know.

My children are growing up all too fast and I am well aware of the information I need for them. If you know of a group, club or service that should be in our directory please ask them to contact us or please email their details to polly@therainbowdirectory.co.uk Whenever you use the directory, please mention where you saw the advert and if a friend or family members would like a copy of their own please call and we will pop one in the post for FREE.

If you would like your advert to be seen in the next edition of The Rainbow Directory Please call us for an information pack. If you don’t tell families about your school, club, group or services they will not know about you. If you want more business then tell parents what you have to offer. Our advertising costs, starting for as little as £20, really does offer you value for money. Our directories are produced 3 times a years and we print 20,000 copies each time.

Have a good winter

Take care Polly 01983 872191 email: polly@therainbowdirectory.co.uk

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Content

News and Updates YMCA Fairthorne Manor Royal Visit Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal On Thursday 17th September 2009, HRH The Princess Royal arrived by helicopter at YMCA Fairthorne Manor for a site tour and to open the new accommodation block named Ben’s House.

Ben’s House is a purpose built accommodation block built in a vehicle free, child friendly zone designed specifically to meet the needs of groups of young people from all backgrounds and their leaders. It can sleep up to 72 children / young people and 12 leaders and can be configured in 7 different ways to create separate units to accommodate up to 3 groups, of varying sizes.

The opening was attended by 8 children and 5 staff from YMCA St Mary’s Day Nursery based at St Mary’s Hospital, Newport. The group were accompanied by the High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight, 8 Young carers and the YMCA IOW Young Carers Project Staff.

The Nursery Children played with a variety of outdoor activities while visitors were toured around the site, demonstrating the nurseries woodland and outdoor play attitude. When HRH Princess Anne arrived, the children were using magnifying glasses to look for mini beasts and wildlife said Diana Jeffries (YMCA St Mary’s Nursery manager).

Caterpillar Music The Children from Caterpillar Music classes once again came together to partake in the Annual Sponsorship Event for 2009 to raise money for needy Island causes. This year the children raised money for a much needed piece of equipment for Beaulieu House and continued support for NICU. The children were delighted that Sister Pamela George from NICU joined them on the walk and accepting the presentation cheque. Also on the walk Carol Behenna the Manager of Beaulieu House along with other members from Beaulieu House. Both will be made a speech to all the parents.

Autism Charity Celebrates Launch Of Local Support Group The Isle of Wight branch of the National Autistic Society (NAS) has launched a local Cowes support group for parents and carers of children and adults with autism. The group, was opened by IW council leader Cllr David Pugh, is the first in what the branch hope will be a network of much needed support across the island. Local Cowes resident Louise Cook, whose son was diagnosed with autism six months ago and is co-ordinator of the new group said: “We are all very excited about the launch of this new support group in Cowes and look forward to meeting lots more local families who are affected by this serious, lifelong and disabling condition.

Groups like this give parents the opportunity to find out about the help and services that are available to them and to relax and socialise with people who understand the highs and lows of caring for someone with autism. “As the mum of a child with autism myself I know the true value of support from other parents - the right help at the right time can make an enormous difference.” The support group will meet on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month (term time only) from 12.45 2.45pm at Cowes Children’s centre, Love Lane, Cowes PO31 7ET. All parents and carers of people with autism are welcome. Refreshments kindly provided courtesy of Co-Op Mill Hill.

For more information (See advert page 27).

Welcome

1

News and Updates

2

Activities

4

Cooking

9

Education

10

School News

12

Winter Special

18

Parties

22

Places to Visit

23

Competition

25

Childcare and Pregnancy

26

Services

27

Island Families

35 What’s on this winter, page 18

National Trust Competition - one of the winners Luke Joynes

Luke said: “I really enjoyed my trip to the Needles Old Battery, even though it was very windy when we got there.

It was very interesting to see the searchlight emplacement, and that is where this picture was taken. We also went right up on top of the downs to see where the Black Knight space rockets were tested in the 1950’s” From Luke Joynes

Caterpillar Music Competition - one of the winners Rebecca Metcalfe (in pink dress) One of the winners that won 6 music sessions was Rebecca Metcalfe, with her sister, mother and Maggie who runs the classes.

Caterpillar classes are held Islandwide see advert inside back cover.

While every effort and care has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions it may contain. The Rainbow Directory does not imply an endorsement of the service of product.

The Data Protection Act requires that we inform you that your company or service are listed in this Directory, it is on our computer.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, or stored in any retrieval system, without prior written permission of the publisher. Copyright © The Rainbow Directory.

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Activities

Activities Art Classes Kids Art. Quay Arts, Sea Street, Newport. (See ad page 23)

01983 822490

01983 822490

Caterpillar Music (See ad inside back cover) 01983 875505 Caterpillar Music at Jolly Rogers, music only or music/play and music/play/meal deals available, call Maggie to book your FREE trial, 10.00am and 11.00am Classes Tuesdays during term time.

Dance Vibez Ann Abe 01983 403175 Classes for toddlers and up-wards (adults and professional dancers) ballet, tap, free style, hip hop, performing arts, Melody Bear classes, Parent and toddler classes, exams, show work (including west end shows and charity work) Plenty of fun for all ages and an exciting way to stay fit and healthy. Ann Abe member of United Kingdom Alliance. Professional dancer and teacher.

Footsteps Dance Studio 01983 407316 01983 865264 Classes in ballet, tap & freestyle for exams, shows or just for fun. Three years old to professional level and adult classes. Teachers qualified with International Dance Teachers Association. Also qualified nursery nurses. Classes in Lake, Brading and Bembridge.

Gillian Cartwright School of Dance

01983 730401 Classes in Ballet, Modern, Tap, Jazz and Aerobics for 3 years to adult. Exams, Festivals and SHOW WORK. Studios in Shanklin and Lake. Qualified teachers of the R.A.D. - I.S.T.D. and B.T.D.A. The Islands most award winning dance school.

Magic Movers www.magicmovers.co.uk 01983 864416 Get active with your child! Fun, easy movement to music sessions for 2-5 year olds with an adult companion. Term time Thursdays, 11:30 - 12.30 in Newport. £3 including snack. Loyalty reward scheme.

Each session features original music you won’t find anywhere else!

PJ’s Theatre School www.pjstheatreschool.co.uk 01983 611791 Not just a dance school or just for performance - Come and learn the lot! Singing, Dance & Drama, with awards & examinations, local & West End Performances - learn with working Professionals. New classes include Hip Hop & Cheerleading in Ryde, Melody Movement Parent & Toddler Dance.

The Island Dance School

01983 402491 Ballet, Tap, Freestyle, Gymnastics & Musical Theatre. Qualified dance teacher of 28 years. Shows, exams, in RAD / IDTA & Lamda. CRB checked, first aid, (All insurances & licences) Classes in Totland & Brading from 2 ½ years onwards. Fun! Affordable! Email theislanddance@googlemail.com

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07950 501763

Theatre Train (See ad page 7)

01983 248844

Football and Ice Hockey

Dance, Drama and Music Dancing Tots. Quay Arts, Sea Street, Newport (See ad page 23)

Rhythm Time (See ad page 6)

M.C.A.F.E. Coaching Centre

01983 755537 Football coaching centre for children 5-12 years. A positive teaching & learning environment, U.E.F.A & F.A qualified staff with enhanced CRB clearance, FA Charter Mark Award for holiday courses.

Isle of Wight Junior Ice Hockey Club. (IWJIHC)

07854 475411 07834 958770 We have an excellent learn to play hockey curriculum that develops the players through from basic skills to match competency. Come to Power Hour which is every Tuesday night 5.30 - 6.30 pm, £3.50.

Horse Riding Hill Farm Riding School, Freshwater.

0774 8253899 01983 752502 Love ponies, then come and ride with us. All ages and abilities welcome. Fun days, own a pony days, hacking, jumping and looking after ponies, you can learn to do it all. We now do birthday parties too.

Sports Clubs and Swimming The Isle of Wight Sports Club Seaview

01983 613108 Lovely facilities for all the family. Pool with poolside steam room, floodlit all weather tennis court, badminton, squash, table tennis, gymnasium, fitness studio. Also sporting activities are arranged during the school holidays. To find out more and how to join www.iwsports.co.uk Swimming instruction for beginners, intermediates and advanced. Lovely facilities for all the family. Visit The Isle of Wight Sports Club Seaview. www.iwsports.co.uk Jane McGregor Swimming Academy (See ad page 6)

01983 563139 Swimming classes for all ages and abilities starting with Waterbabies then classes for toddlers or preschool classes right up to advanced mini squad.

Ryde Cormorants Email: rydecormorants@tiscali.co.uk

01983 615878 Ryde Cormorants meet from 5.00 - 6.30pm on Saturdays during term time. For more information please email or call (See editorial page 8).

Sewing Cloth & Comfort & The Quilting Peopl e 07542 530702 Beginners patchwork classes for children and adults during December. The cost is £3.50 to reserve set and a free drink, then participants will be able to buy kits, cost £3.00 upwards. Call to book. 44 Union Street Ryde. www.clothandcomfort.webs.com The Rainbow Directory 05

Activities

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Activites

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Toad in the Hole

Activites Theatre Train

Since 1992 Theatretrain has pursued its aims with a passion to provide high quality training for young people in the performing arts and to offer first class opportunities to perform in local and national theatres such as the London Palladium, Royal Albert Hall and Theatre Royal Drury Lane to name a few. We are passionate about the performing arts. Young people enjoy working together, have energy and possess imaginative insights surprising to adults. All they lack is experience. Our training provides that experience and the skills to benefit from it. We hold weekly classes teaching a wide range of skills in acting, singing and dancing tailored to 6-9, 9-12 and 13-18 year olds. Through a specially created curriculum our classes develop an understanding of how theatre works. We make exciting and challenging theatre by working as a group.

The quality of our teaching staff is important to us and they are chosen for their experience and enthusiasm so they inspire our pupils. Most of our teachers have been or are performers and with the centre manager create the buzz of activity and enthusiasm that is the Theatre Train style.

Melody Bear

by Hungry Harry

This dish is as old as my Granny and one of my favourites. It only takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. I like it served with peas, thick homemade chips and onion gravy!

Ingredients for 4 people

2 free range eggs 125g plain flour 150ml milk with 150ml cold water mixed together 1 level tablespoon wholegrain mustard 6 pork sausages 6 rashers streaky bacon (optional) 3 tablespoons cooking oil or lard

Who is Melody Bear? She is the focal point of the Melody Movement early learning dance and movement program for children aged 2 to 4 years, created by Jill Bridger, Royal Academy of Dance ballet teacher based in Cambridge. Melody Bear’s action songs, stories and unique picture cards lead girls and boys through a journey of imaginative dance and play. There are teachers here in the Isle of Wight using the exciting Melody Movement syllabus in their ballet schools and you can find a class near you by visiting www.melodymovement.com In addition to introducing children to dance using the natural movements of the body such as running, walking and jumping, classes focus on fundamental curriculum learning skills such as counting, colour and shape recognition, vocabulary and language skills. The strength of the system is that learning is achieved through creative movement which is enjoyable and fun.

(See page 4 for PJ Theatre School – Fusion Arts & Dance Vibez )

Ryde Comorants

Ryde Cormorants is a swimming project for children aged 9 and over based at The Waterside Pool on Ryde Esplanade.

The project came about when volunteers Claire Gale and Sev Mouletin approached the Isle of Wight Council with the idea. With support and assistance from the Sports Unit and the Management at the pool the project came to fruition in April 2009.

The aim of the project is to offer children who can already swim the opportunity to keep swimming, learn new skills and keep fit. To join the project children need to be able to swim continuously for 50 metres, swim front crawl, back crawl and breaststroke for at least 25 metres, perform dolphin leg kick for 10 metres, tread water for 1 minute and a mushroom float for 10 seconds.Ryde Cormorants is ideal for children who enjoy swimming regularly but do not feel that club swimming and competing is for them. Each session lasts 45 minutes allowing time for work on stroke improvement and other skills associated with swimming.

(See advert page 5)

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Instructions Turn on the oven to 220 Degrees Centigrade and leave to get up to temperature.

Mix the eggs, milk / water mixture, flour and mustard together in a large bowl. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is the thickness of double cream (about 4-5 minutes should do it). Make sure there are no lumps of flour left in the mixture. Leave this bowl to rest on one side for about 15 minutes.

Next I like to wrap each sausage in a piece of streaky bacon but this is not necessary if you are rushed.

Put the lard or oil into an oven proof dish or baking tray about 28cm x 21cm in size. Put the dish into the hot oven to fully heat up.

When the oil is smoking hot take the dish from the oven and pour in the batter mixture in one smooth action. Arrange the sausages on top of the sizzling mixture. They will sink in but not be fully covered.

Put back into the oven and cook for 25 - 30 minutes - when ready the dish should be golden brown and puffed up around the sausages.

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Education

Education Speech & Language Independent Speech & Language Therapist 01983 618757 For assessment, therapy, advice and training for all your child’s communication needs. Phone Bev Jessup or www.speech-train.co.uk Independent Speech & Language Therapist 07890 022853 01983 756783 Independent Speech & Language Therapist. 18 years mainland and island experience in pre-schools, mainstream and specialist schools and NHS Clinics. Assessment, treatment and advice for all paediatric speech and language difficulties. Just telephone for a discussion or Email rachel.parsloe@talktalk.net

Home Education, Tuition & Music Tuition Isle of Wight Learning Zone www.iwlearningzone.co.uk Home education support group, email info@iwlearningzone.co.uk

01983 883866

Kumon English and Maths 01983 853643 Complete after school English and Mathematics programmes for children 4-14 of all abilities. www.kumon.co.uk (See ad page 11).

Martin Beverley L.T.C.L. MUS. ED. 01983 855477 Qualified experienced Piano Tuition, all ages and abilities. Tutoring in graded examinations, or simply for pleasure.

Independent School Hordle Walhampton, Lymington 01590 672013 Independent boarding and day school for boys and girls from 2-13 years. We provide the best possible teaching and have small classes (See ad back cover).

Mayville High School 023 9273 4847 Independent school in Southsea. Girls and Boys from 6 mths - 16 years. Small - Unique and Successful.

Mini Bus picks up from the Hovercraft to the school and back each day. (See ad inside front cover).

Portsmouth High School 023 9282 6714 Find out what we have to offer your daughter from nursery through to sixth form. Only 5 Minute walk from Southsea Hover Terminal.

Priory School 01983 861222 Priory School, Alverstone Manor, Shanklin. Offers a independent education for girls and boys from 3 -16 years, with 23 subjects offered to GCSE Level. (See ad page 13).

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Help your child to succeed and grow with a Kumon study programme Every parent wants their child to achieve at school and go on to lead a happy and successful life. At your local Kumon study centres at Cowes and at Sandown, we can support your child’s study and help them to excel in maths and English.

Whatever their age or ability, Kumon focuses on each child as an individual and enables them to study at a level that is right for them. Our maths and English programmes complement the school curriculum, supporting classroom learning and ensuring that progression is built on strong foundations.

Whether your child struggles or excels, a Kumon programme can be tailored to their needs, and by regular study of only 10-20 minutes per day they can build confidence, accuracy, concentration and independence in learning. Through working at their own pace over a period of time, your child can acquire the self-assurance to reach their potential both at school and beyond.

Kumon Cowes has moved to: St. Andrew’s Hall, Bridge Road, Cowes, PO31 7DF. For information about our January Free Trial or to enrol, contact ex Sandown High School mathematics teacher Harry Vernon on 01983 853643, email: cowes@kumoncentre.co.uk or visit www.kumon.co.uk/Cowes/index.htm

Storysacks Storysacks enables parents to contribute in a major way to their children’s literacy and provide a valuable resource to teachers. A Storysack is a large cloth bag containing a quality child’s picture book with supporting materials to stimulate reading activities. To bring the book to life, soft toys of the main characters and a game based on the books are included.

There was an Old Lady Storysack. Irresistible matching Old Lady doll and bean – filled animals, to find out more see advert inside front cover Lyn’s Book Biz.

Independent Parents Guide

Independent Parents Guide The Priory School

At Mayville we allow pupils to fulfil their potential.

Priory School is an Independent Co-Educational Day School for boys and girls aged 5 to 16. A Sixth Form opens in 2010 for 16-18 year olds. This will offer a complete education from 5 to 18 ensuring no disruption to your children’s education.

It is run with a Christian ethos, where each child is considered separately, for his or her talents. We have high academic standards but also believe that the arts, including drama, music and dance, and team sports for both Junior & Senior pupils are a vital part of an overall education.

As this years Leavers gathered at Mayville High School basking in the success of their GCSE results, one thing was clear, they had really enjoyed their time at Mayville High School in Southsea.

Sixteen Year Old Tom Petty, who passed 12 GCSE’s, 5 A*s and 7 A grades hopes to become a doctor. His mum Ann Petty says, “He absolutely loved it at Mayville. He’s quite laid back and we were concerned in a bigger school he wouldn’t do anything! Small classes meant he wasn’t just another child in a sea of faces”.

Freddie Olafsson passed 8 GCSE’s. His passion is art.

With an A* in his GCSE his work bordered on A level standard. His mum Julia Bradburn says, “It’s a wonderful school, I have watched my boys grow into young men at Mayville.” She added “It’s incredible for art, for Freddie the fact that everyone knows everyone, was a huge bonus.”

Charlotte Tudgay leaves with 10 GCSE’s and wants to be a pharmacist. Her mum Helen says, “We took Charlotte out of the state system because her confidence wasn’t strong. At Mayville Charlotte has had individual attention, and her confidence has soared”.

Monali Patel passed 11 GCSEs, and also wants to be a pharmacist. She loved, “Mayville’s friendly atmosphere, and small classes”.

At Mayville we feel we are doing the right thing because pupils and parents tell us so. It’s a school for everyone that truly treats children as individuals. Children living on the island travel on the hovercraft, and get picked up by our minibuses. Mayville is just a hop skip and a jump from the Island. It could just be the school for your child.

We’d love to show you round. See advert inside front cover.

Boarding is rewarding Whilst many parents have benefited from their children enjoying an occasional overnight stay or two at school, boarding on a full, or more regular basis, may not have been considered a serious option. However, for children intending to board at their senior schools, boarding at Hordle Walhampton offers many advantages and opportunities.

Senior school house parents have long held the belief that children who have experienced boarding, be it flexi or full, at their prep school, settle in much more quickly and happily than those facing being away from home for the very first time.

Boarding at Hordle Walhampton is busy, fun, active and allows plenty of time for additional study work, vital as pupils prepare for scholarships and Common Entrance.

It also takes the pressure of parents, so that when the children come home, be it weekends or holidays, there’s plenty of time to concentrate on family fun and activities.

Hordle Walhampton welcomes enquiries about boarding and all that it has to offer to both children and parents.

Those wishing to meet the school’s boarding staff and to view the boarding accommodation, including the newlydecorated girls’ boarding wing in the Mainhouse, should contact Rita Cordery, Registrar, on 01590 672013. See advert Back Cover.

Our 2009 GCSE results proved that we care for all children as all candidates whether academic or vocational in ability went on to the colleges or careers of their choice. We will of course be offering that ourselves when our Sixth Form opens. We believe in clear rules, clear procedures and to ensure attention to each child maintain a strict policy of having a MAXIMUM class size of 16 pupils.

The school is divided into Junior & Senior Schools, with a Head of each school. We have already appointed a Sixth Form tutor for 2010. The administrative staff comprise Principal, School Administrator and Bursar.The Principal Edmund Matyjaszek, who acquired the school in March 2009 at the invitation of the founder, is an Oxford graduate who trained in law, and who was also for years a Director & Trustee of the Poetry Society. His family has been in teaching for generations.

The aim of Priory School is to offer a first-class education at an affordable cost in a well structured and clearly run environment to become the school of choice on the Isle of Wight. For all who visit Priory School, it is the friendly and family atmosphere that stands out. We feel the 18% increase in pupil intake this Autumn term speaks for itself.

Science Flourishes at Portsmouth Grammar School Exciting developments began this Summer when work on the brand new, state-of-the-art Science Centre started in earnest with the demolition of the previous building and the laying of foundations for a Science Centre, designed to meet the demand for flexible and up-to-the-minute science delivery, for pupils across the age range.

The Science Centre – a three-storey building comprising ultra-modern laboratories, seminar spaces, a greenhouse and preparation rooms – will house all three disciplines: Chemistry, Biology and Physics. The new building, to be sited partly on the foundations of the current Chemistry and Physics blocks, has been ingeniously designed to meet the highest standards of green technology, efficiently utilising existing energy sources, solar panels and ergonomic design; uniquely, the centre itself can be used as a highly effective teaching resource.

In October 2009, almost a quarter of pupils in the Sixth Form will be furthering their studies into one of the science disciplines at university, including five pupils who will be taking science-related degrees at Oxford and Cambridge and twelve pupils who will embark on courses in Medicine and Dentistry. See www.pgs.org.uk

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Independent Parents Guide Hovertravel launched a new Season Card On 1st September 2009, Hovertravel launched a new Season Card aimed at school pupils and students who travel across the Solent on a daily basis. The new card named the Child Academic Year Season Card, replaces the 12, 6 and 3 months extendible child season tickets and has a fixed validity of 1st September to 31st July.

The card has been created further to feedback and demand from parents of child travellers, and offers greater value for money and convenience than the previous tickets. The Child Academic Year Season Card has a set price of £690 and the only exclusions of use within the valid period are Christmas and Easter holidays.

Pre-Schools & Nursery Schools Blackberry Lane Pre-School Cowes 01983 298344 We provide a safe, secure and stimulating environment for children from 2 years 8 months to 4 years.

Barton Primary School Early Years Centre (See ad page 16)

01983 522469

Bonnie-Faces Pre-School 01983 856354 For children aged 2-5 years, open 8.30am to 3.00pm, Mon-Fri. ‘Our children are the centre of all our thinking’.

Casa dei bambini Montessori Nursery 01983 566188 A small run established private Montessori Nursery. Providing a good educational and caring environment. The nursery is open for children aged between 2-5 years.

Additionally, for the first time Hovertravel are offering the sale of the new season card by Direct Debit, to further convenience customers and ease payments, at a small additional payment of £10.

Chatterbox Day Nursery 01983 616779 We offer the highest standards of care and education to children aged 3 months to 12 years in a safe homely environment. For further information or prospectus contact us at, 32 Nelson St, Ryde.

Tel 616779. Or Nettlestone Primary School Tel: 616070.

“We’ve received excellent feedback from our customers regarding our new Academic Year Season Card, and the number of pupils and students we are carrying is increasing.

We’re also pleased to assist parents in spreading out the costs with the direct debit option if they choose to pay this way”. Loretta Lale, Commercial & Marketing Manager.

Children from Mayville High School getting off hovercraft

For more information visit the Hovertravel website on www.hovertravel.co.uk

Haylands Pre-School (See ad page 16) High quality care and education.

01983 617185

The Island Day Nurserys (See ad inside front cover) 01983 533334 3 Nurseries - Pre-Schools around the island, Newport, Sandown and Gurnard Pines.

Newchurch Nursery School (See ad page 16)

01983 868361

Nine Acres Pre-School (See ad page 16) A caring pre-school which have close links with reception class.

01983 822163

Niton Pre-School (See ad page 17) A fun friendly pre-school for children age 2-5 years.

01983 730985

Wroxall Pre-School (See ad page 16) Age 2-5, we have fun learning through play. £5.75 a session.

01983 854881

YMCA Day Nursery (See ad page 17) Within the grounds of St Mary’s Hospital.

01983 525423

Tops Day Nursery - Playstation (See ad page 20) 01983 520334 ‘Top quality, sustainable childcare. Flexible hours to suit your family.’ Day Nursery, pre-school and play club for children aged 3 months - 7 years

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Education

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Education

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Top things to do this Winter

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Top things to do this Winter

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Education

Parents and Toddler Groups Bembridge Tots Group 01983 568601 We meet every Thursday 10 - 12 noon, lots of toys, activities, all welcome. Please call for details.

CatURpillars Babies and Toddlers Activity Session , Shanklin 01983 862485 Thursdays 12.45 - 2.30pm and Fridays 10.00 - 12.00. Ride on car, ball pool, play dough, sorting toys, baby area, singing time and lots more. £1.00 per child £1.50 per family inc healthy drink and snack.

Cowes Children’s Centre SureStart 01983 291719 We offer a wide range of FREE services all year round for Parents & Carers of children under 5. Please call for more details.

Gurnard Toddler Group, Gurnard Village Hall, Worsley Rd Gurnard 01983 249607 Term time only. Fridays 9.30 - 11.30am. Craft activities, toys, books, baby soft play, themed events.

NCT Bumps & Babies

0844 243 6176 Wootton Bridge Methodist Church, Station Road, Wootton Bridge.

Every Tuesday, 10.30am - 12.30pm. Bumps & Babies is an informal coffee group, run by volunteers in the NCT, for ALL expectant or new mums. It takes place in Wootton and is a great place to meet other People with small children, share your parenting experiences or ideas and have an informal chat over coffee.

Onwards and Upwards for Play Station Nursery, reaching for the ‘Tops’ since closure threat The Play Station Nursery based at the Isle of Wight College, which was set for closure last July and had staff, parents and children holding banners in a plea to ‘Save the nursery’, has been gradually growing in stature since Dorset based Tops Day Nursery chain stepped in to maintain it from 1st September.

The decision for the take-over was a result of a consultation period between unions and parents and the Isle of Wight College who all worked hard to find a solution for the nursery and the 22 staff whose jobs were threatened.

Cheryl Hadland, Managing Director for Tops Day Nurseries, says that ‘income has doubled in recent weeks and more children are being registered, many being the new college students starting their courses and needing childcare.

It will take a bit more work for the nursery to comfortably maintain itself and our other Tops nurseries are helping to subsidise it until it reaches that level. But, with the new students coming in each year and with the word spreading around the island with help from the College, I’m confident that it will grow and grow.”

www.topsdaynurseries.co.uk

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NCT Tiny Tots Cowes 0844 243 6176 Cowes Children’s Centre, Love Lane, Cowes.

Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month, 10am - 12pm. We welcome all members and non-members of the NCT, from pregnant women through to parents with children right up to school age. Play areas, craft activities, books and outdoor play (during nice weather).

NCT Tiny Tots Freshwater 0844 243 6176 West Wight Youth & Community Centre, Moa Place, Freshwater.

Every Wednesday, 10am - 12pm. We welcome all members and non-members of the NCT, from pregnant women through to parents with children right up to school age. Play areas, craft activities and books.

NCT Tiny Tots Ryde 0844 243 6176 Ryde United Reformed Church, Upton Road, Ryde.

Every Friday, 10am - 12pm. We welcome all members and non-members of the NCT, from pregnant women through to parents with children right up to school age. Play areas, craft activities, books and outdoor play (during nice weather).

SureStart Children’s Centre George Street Ryde 01983 617617 We offer a wide range of FREE services all year round for Parents & Carers of children aged 0 - 5 years.

Please call for more details.

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Places to Visit and Eat

Parties

Caterpillar Music Parties (See ad inside back cover) 01983 875505 Each party is full of fun activities & surprises. We bring magic and song.

Central Discos call Sam & Darren

07799 131492 01983 556906 Planning a Childrens party, then look no further you need Central Discos. From toddler to teens we offer lasers, bubbles, lights and great music. CRB checked, tailored for you, ANY DO, WE’LL DO www.centraldiscos.yolasite.com Partykids 01983 864416 Two entertainers – one affordable price. Kay and Kevin provide the complete entertainment package for your 2 hour party, with a blend of live and recorded music, dances, fun and games. Call us for a chat, or visit www.iowpartykids.co.uk Pony Parties 07748 253899 01983 752502 Pony parties for you and your friends on that special day. All abilities catered for, from 4 years. It’s great fun, a party to remember.

Rhythm Time Birthday Parties 07950 501763 Singing, dancing and fun! Personalised for your child. Available for 1-5 year olds. For more information about Rhythm Time Isle of Wight please call.

Sandown Rock Climbing Parties

07593 543231 Climbing Parties! If you are looking for a unique venue for a party then look no further: Sandown Rocks is the place for you!

West Wight Disco

0800 118 2484 The Soundtrack to your party. All kinds of music for all kinds of event. email info@westwightaudio.co.uk

To find out what’s on, log on to

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The Rainbow Directory 23

Competition

Places to Visit and Eat

Win one of four free entry tickets with the choice of joining our Anytime membership scheme for FREE J R Zone, the Island’s leading indoor play centre and laser arena is offering you a chance to win one of their memberships, which guarantees a reduced entrance price for a whole year!

With our huge 3 level play frame of slides, ball baths, ladders and rope swings, we give the children a safe platform for fun exercise.

Combine this with our quality café and lounge area, your children can let off steam in a fun safe environment whilst you relax and refuel!

Memberships include ‘Term Time’ (guarantees entry at just £2.50 per child Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm during term time - saving you £1.45 per entry) and ‘Anytime’ (guarantees a price of £3 per child any time - saving you 95p per entry).

Winners will avoid the initial administration fees of £5 and £10 respectively. Other benefits of becoming a member include: A free cup of squash on each visit.

Frequent visitor card giving you one free visit after every 6. l If you book your child’s party with us their place is free (saving up to £10.95). l l

To win one of 4 free entry tickets with the choice of joining the Anytime Membership Scheme for FREE - worth £10 which guarantees the entry price for a whole year at £3 - plus all the other benefits. Please answer the following question:

“Which Government scheme encourages families to eat well, move well and live longer, happier lives?”

Please remember only one entry per child is permitted, please write clearly with your name address, age and phone number and send your answer to The Rainbow Directory, PO Box 119, Bembridge, Isle of Wight PO35 5WZ. By the 4th December. Or you can enter the competition if you visit www.therainbowdirectory.co.uk All winners will be notified by phone and by post. If you enter the competition your details will not be passed on.

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The Rainbow Directory 25

Childcare and Pregnancy

Services Cloth and Comfort American Folk and Country Imports 07542 530702 100% cotton moda fabrics, gifts, reproduction Treenware, hand made crafts, cushions, etc to order as well as hig quality clothing alterations and beginners patchwork classes.

British Red Cross Email. mbaxter@redcross.org.uk 07738 944571 We provide First aid and humanitarian education talks, opportunities for volunteering (15+) as peer educators and first aiders, a humanitarian dance competition (Dance for Life) and a Humanitarian School Award. Visit www.redcross.org.uk/isleofwight or contact us British Red Cross, Red Cross House, Hunnycross Way, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5ZD Contact a Family Hampshire and IOW 01252 545345 We offer a wide range of information for families with children with disabilities, put families. In touch with other families in similar situations, and are able to answer or find the answers to host of issues.

Freephone helpline 0808 808 3555 or www.cafamily.org.uk for local help call Cay Byford.

Home Start IOW 01983 533357 Do you have some spare time to help a family in your community? Home-Start volunteers visit families in their own homes, for a few hours a week to offer support and friendship. Training and expenses provided. Criminal Record Bureau check will be carried out. To find out more please call or email: office@homestartiow.wanadoo.co.uk

Little Nippers Baby Boutique in Shanklin is now looking forward to its second Christmas, offering a wide range of gifts and toys for babies and children up to the ages of 5.A new range of wooden toys from Marbel has been added to our other quality range of toys from John Crane and includes sit on trikes, dolls prams and train sets. For the newborn to 2 years the well known range of soft and educational toys

by Lamaze has been the most popular new addition.

The quality and vibrant colours of these toys for cot, pram or playtime are second to none especially at such affordable prices.

With Christmas and special occasions in mind we have a range of dresses in velvet and classic styles, providing a wide choice even for the most discerning Party Princess! To complete the ensemble, hand made coats some with muffs and pil box hats in red white and pink have recently arrived from Scotland, ideal for any occasion including Christenings and weddings. And looking forward to 2010 we are expecting a delivery of baby buggies at affordable prices to add to our growing ranges. You can also buy on-line at www.littlenippersuk.com

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Services for the Home

Services - Fostering

What is fostering and why foster?

The Utility Warehouse - Make money by helping people save money!

Every year many children are taken into care because their parents, for one reason or another, may be unable to look after them. The problem is often unrelated to the child, and whatever it may be, the child needs looking after while the issues are resolved.

The Utility Warehouse Discount Club is operated by Telecom plus PLC, a major British company whose shares are listed on the London Stock Exchange. They provide their members with great value, great savings and the best possible customer service. Perhaps it’s not surprising that in a recent survey, over 94% of Utility Warehouse customers said they would recommend them to a friend.

Fostering is caring for such children in your home. It is not adoption, but it can mean looking after a child for a week, a month, a year or sometimes longer, helping them to thrive in a caring and safe environment. As a foster carer you are part of a team which includes social workers, health visitors and doctors, all or whom are caring for and nurturing a child with the aim of returning them to their family, to an adoptive placement or independent living.

There are many children and young people who need foster carers. By providing a secure and loving home, you will help a child develop their self-esteem and learn that they are valued.

While fostering can be rewarding you will at times face difficulties. We offer a strong support team and do everything possible to help our carers. You will be working with a professional, experienced team of people, providing you with quality support and guidance.

The Utility Warehouse are very different to other suppliers. They don’t have any high street shops and their systems are very efficient. And because (unlike their competitors) they don’t waste money on expensive advertising campaigns on TV or in the National Press, they can afford to charge their customers less than they do for the same services.

Also, The Utility Warehouse don’t do introductory offers to entice new customers that suddenly go up in price after a few months. All their members benefit from consistently good value and great customer service at all times, for as long as they remain a customer.

For more details on either saving money or earning money with the Utility Warehouse Discount Club, please contact David or Jacquie Tarry, who are based in Bembridge, on 0800 990 3237

As a foster carer on the Isle of Wight, you will be provided with the challenging opportunity to add change and direction to a child’s life.

For further information on fostering call 01983

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566011 or visit www.iwight.com/fostering The Rainbow Directory 29

Services

Services - Cleaning Carpenters Cleaners Cleaning new builds, refurbishments, offices, one of cleans plus high level cleaning.

07973471482

West Wight Cleaning Services www.westwightcleaningservices.co.uk 01983 760779 Specialising in holiday let and second home services. Please contact Jane Rogers to discuss your requirements. An Isle of Wight Trading Standards Scheme approved member.

Chemical FREE Cleaning for your home, your school or place of work !

Joanna Minchin; Enjo How and Why: After attending a demo at a friend’s house, it took me a while to get my head around the concept of “no chemicals and cold water”. Then at the completion of our new bathroom I thought it was the right time to go for it - I bought the lot. The other persuasive factor was that my two small children always had their bath with residual jif at the bottom of the bath (however hard it was to remove, there was always some residue) then being small children, they invariably drank their bath water i.e. diluated jif! So now the bathroom sparkles, and around the house, dusting cloths, mop and kitchen cloths are invaluable. The window cleaning system saved so much time (45 minutes for ground floor windows to 10 minutes).

I have not opened the chemical cupboard since purchasing all the cloths six months ago. Debbie Ridett who introduced Enjo to the Island said how Enjo was taking off so I was very pleased to come on board and work with her to spread the word about this new & exciting cleaning system. I thoroughly enjoy showing other people the cloths at the demos, and then hearing their positive feedback. We also sail so Enjo is perfect for boats, no chemicals and limited water use. Please call for a demo 07790 401 036

Warmahome with the Footprint Trust The good news is that most homes can be insulated for less than £400 - and the pay back in money saving can be made over two cold winters. For more information please contact the Trust on 82-22-82.

The project also provides free home visits, giving energy saving guidance on boilers, windows and insulation, and shows ways in which to reduce energy bills. The scheme aims to improve the well-being and quality of life for families across the Island whilst reducing environmental damage caused by energy being wasted.

The Footprint Trust doesn’t just work with adults they have a schools programme aimed at pupils of all ages. The workshops help young people understand about the world’s diminishing resources and help schools to reduce their energy bills and waste in general.

Their educational work is sponsored by the Isle of Wight Council and thus is free to all Island schools.

As a busy working mum, cleaning the house was my least favourite activity and a real bind. I was already keen to use as few chemicals in my life as possible for the health of my young family. I was already doing my best to be environmentally-friendly too and aware of cutting down on packaging.

I could tell straightaway that Enjo was perfect for me - only using cold water, no chemicals or packaging.

But I couldn’t believe how good it was at cleaning - and how much quicker and more pleasant it made the job. I have recently joined Debbie’s team to help promote Enjo on the Island as I want to “spread the word” about how fantastic it is. I would especially love to see it being used in schools. Rachel Hayden, call now to find out more 01983 297221.

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Services

Services

Back to work Parents!

Who is going to look after your Little Treasures? How can you get help !

Starting work after having children or returning to work and choosing the correct childcare for your family whether it’s your first experience or this is your third or fourth child can be met with a mine field of confusing and conflicting information. Similarly after a family separation/union new choices have to be made at a time when emotions are running high.

I myself remember not understanding what the difference is between a nursery or a childminder. There is so much help available and it changes all the time so don’t assume what was available when you had your first child is the same.

Once you have decided what form your childcare will take you will need to choose a particular provider. This again throws you into making decisions about something that you have no point of reference with. Also the cost of childcare is sometimes scary but help is available in many different equally confusing forms!!!! Dependant on you as an individual this might not also be a decision based on income / expenditure work life balance, self worth and aspirations also need to be considered. l

Financial Help available

l

Free Places

All 3-4 year old can get 12.5 hours a week paid for by the government following the child’s 3rd birthday. l

Tax Credits

This is help with both childcare care and income. There are two elements: working tax credits and child tax credits.

Call 0845 3003900 It is really easy to claim you can do it all over the phone !!!! l

Salary Sacrifice Schemes

Employers run these schemes and self employed people can also use a similar system. In simple terms this scheme allows you to claim back the Tax and National insurance contributions that you would pay on the money you pay on childcare up to a maximum of £243 a month per person. This is a personal tax allowance so if two of you are working you can both claim vouchers of £243 each. There are various voucher schemes available just Google salary sacrifice vouchers. If your employer doesn’t sponsor one of these schemes, they should, as it saves them. l

Training funding

If you are looking to retrain, dependant on your circumstances you might be eligible for funding for re training and back to work schemes. Your local job centre or college will be able to help you with courses and funding available.

In my experience of helping families with their childcare requirements combinations of care are often the best. For example nurseries/pre schools have exclusion policies for sicknesses etc where a nanny might be happy to stay at home with the child until they are well enough to return to day care. School holidays are another consideration for the most part they are usually 13 weeks off during the year not including school closure days for training etc. The point I am making is that you will need a fall back plan or two up your sleeve!!!!

Thanks to Fran from Freedom see advert page 26

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Abc Title Photography The Wight Studio Christmas Special To celebrate Christmas this year, The Wight Studio are offering 3 discounted Picture Parcel Packages. Stylish contemporary pictures of your friends and family can be shot in the studios in Ryde, or at your favourite location (by negotiation!) and turned in to beautiful images for you to treasure forever.

These packages all include the fun shoot, and then feature a variety of included prints, and or canvasses.

After the shoot is done, The Wight Studio team will make a time for your to come back and view your images, and decide which pieces you would like to order as part of your package.

For more information or to book your session, please contact them on 01983 615466. Please note that to ensure delivery in time for Christmas, these shoots need to be done on or before Saturday November 28th.

Island Families

Roy, Mandy, Sean, Harrison, Millie & Wiley the Boxer Pup Why do you like living in Wootton?

Great community, lovely walks, the creek, the rec, the beach. An all round lovely place to live.

Favourite Local Park

Wootton Rec. Wiley loves meeting all his canine friends for a really good run. It has also just had new play equipment installed. It’s a great park for all.

Favourite Local Club / Class

Isle of Wight Sport Club in Seaview. Fantastic pool Millie goes to Rainbows in the Scout hut which she loves and Harrison has been playing rugby for Vectis Rugby Club since he was 6.

Favourite Child – Friendly Restaurant

Bluebells at Briddlesford Farm. The children love it and so do we.

Favourite Place on the Island

Steephill Cove, the windy corner above St Catherines Lighthouse, St Helens Duver, Puck pool park – the list is huge!!!

Best Children’s Book

Millie and Mandy love The Hungry Caterpillar, for Sean and H all the Alex Ryder stories and Roy likes the BFG.

Favourite Beach

Steephill Cove and St Helens Duver.

Stuart, Sam, Ben and Emily Why do you like living in Shanklin?

We are new to the area but we like to walk our dog meg along the cliff path, through the chine, down to the seafront, the children like being close to transport links, and being able to walk to their grandmas house.

Favourite Local Park

Rylstone Gardens because you can relax in a deckchair and read a book, Play crazy golf, enjoy lovely homemade cakes in the cafe, even listen to a concert at the bandstand.

Favourite Local Club / Class

Junior gym at the heights its good to meet up with your friends and keep fit at the same time.

Favourite Child – Friendly Restaurant

The Fighting Cocks restaurant is a very friendly place, when we visit we often eat their locally sourced specials, there is a nice outside play area / garden.

Favourite Place on the island

The children like visiting Godshill, we like the individual shops e.g. Daisy Daisy, Chocolate Island, the Cider Barn, they always want to look at the Model Village, a walk up to the old church, and a visit to the Old Smithy for yummy cakes.

Best Children’s Book Harry Potter.

Favourite beach.

Luccombe beach great for rock pooling, body boarding with your friends.

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Abc Title Website

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