Families Chiltern issue 74 July-August 2015

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Celebrating LAMDA examsuccess year on year

PERFORMING ARTS

Issue 74 : July/August 2015

POINTEPILATES

TIME FOR A NEW CAREER?TIME TO BECOME A PILATES TEACHER

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2 FAMILIES July/August 2015

Jackie Palmer Studios,

45/56 Bridge St, High Wycombe, HP11 2EL

Tel: 01494 510 597 www.jackiepalmerstageschool.co.uk

Be a Part of

Something Beautiful . . .

Call Candy Barker on 01494 [email protected] • www.bucksschoolofdance.co.uk

The Bucks School of Dance is one of the county’s premier dance schools, with classes for all children from age 3 and up, at Bourne End, Loudwater, Holtspur & Seer Green. A lively, friendly atmosphere, with inspiring and fully qualified teachers.Come and try us: we’d love to meet you.

BuckdsFree_BSOD_3.indd 1 04/10/2012 23:01

Welcome

UPCOMING ISSUE:September/October:Back to School and Clubs & ClassesDue out: 1 SeptemberDeadline: 23 July

Do you run a children’s club or activity class? Let us know to be included in next issue’s popular activity guide – for free.

Follow us:@Familieschilter

Find us on Facebook:FamiliesChiltern

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Numberbundle is a cross-curricular activity box that empowers parents to engage

children in mathematics. Numberbundle introduces themes from the EYFS and the

National Curriculum with relevant links and discussion points to allow a parent to be

their child’s favourite maths teacher.

Email enquiries@numberbundle to find out more about our special summer offer!

www.numberbundle.com

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ARTS & CRAFTsCOOKeryACTIVE GAMES

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Numberfit is multisensory maths, fitness and fun for 3-14 year olds.It is an innovative course to boost mathematics and problem solving abilities as well as fitness using integrated sessions.

Supports EYFS and National Curriculum.

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Numberprep is a successful specialist mathematics tuition school offering one-to-one and small group classes, working with children of all ages and abilities.

We cover all exams boards from primary school (including 11+ and common entrance) to GCSE and A Level.

“My tutor had a very engaging style and a flexible individual approach. I enjoyed the lessons very much and got an A* in GCSE Maths and A** in IGCSE Further Maths. Fantastic!“ Student.

News from around the Chilterns

Get on your bike! Following the success of last year’s Chiltern Cycling Festival, this year’s event will take place on Sunday 12th July at Penn House. There are lots of opportunities to get involved, including a 5km family ride and fancy dress parade with prizes for the best-dressed family. Summit MTB Go Ride

is also running an off-road multiple race event for children aged six to 16 – there’ll be an obstacle course time trial, short-course race and hill climb with prizes for the fastest boy and girl in each age category. Rides for grown-ups include 100, 60 and 30 mile sportives in the Chiltern hills, with the longer routes covering many of the lanes used in the Tour of Britain. Parking and entry to the festival are free, join in the fun off two wheels with a vintage market, bike expo, food fair, beer tent and live music enjoyed in the grounds of Penn House.

And if all this has filled you with biking fever, there’s also a second cycling event on Monday 31st August at Chenies Manor, near Little Chalfont. For more info on both events, visit www.chilterncyclingfestival.com.

Hats off! Many thanks to everyone who helped make this year’s Wear A Hat Day the biggest and hattiest yet. Hundreds of schools and families took part making and finding hats to show support and raise vital funds for Brain Tumour Research. Donations are still being counted, but it’s not too early to make a date with next year’s campaign, find out more and register at www.wearahatday.org.

inthisissueISSUE 74 • Jul/Aug 2015

Visit us now at www.familieschiltern.co.uk

3 News7 Competitions Win theatre and days out tickets, an adventure

carrier and more

8 25 things to do this summer

12 Summer holiday activity guide

Holiday camps and workshops

18 Outdoor learning27 What’s on Get out and about with our round-up of what’s

happening this summer

Reach over 40,000 readers in the Chilterns, call 01296 586586 to advertise

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Tel: 01296 586586email: [email protected]

Editor: Chrissie Wilson Design: Graphic ResolutionsPrinted by: Warners (Midlands) plc

Published six times a year.


BEVERLEY GLOCK COOKERY SCHOOL

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News & Views

we loveschool feet!

Come and see us at 14 oxford road, Marlowor visit www.thechildrensshoecompany.co.uk

“You always give loads of timeand energy to us when we arebuying shoes. It’s a very pleasant

experience EVERY time!”

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still look smart afterextensive use!”

“All in all fab staff, fab shoes and fab value formoney (a very happy mummy!)”

We have many styles of school shoesin black, brown and navy in a huge

range of sizes from child 7 to adult 9

Numberbundle – enjoyable mathsIf you’re looking for a way to bring maths alive, or just want to support your kids with their school learning, check out Numberbundle. The boxes have been recently launched by local maths expert Numberfit and are designed to give parents tools to introduce their children to engaging numeracy. Each month you’ll receive a box based on a core topic, i.e. data handling, that’s full of fun activities to do with your children so they’ll learn to apply their maths in a creative way. There’s a range of approaches to the topic in each box, including arts and crafts, science experiments, active games and cookery.

‘We’ve developed Numberbundle activity boxes so parents can engage their children in numeracy and have given them tools to introduce all the major themes from the EYFS and National Curriculum, from preschool to Year 2,’ says founder Gavin Mair. ‘High quality materials are included in each box, with full instructions that include all the discussion points for a parent to introduce mathematics throughout the activities.’ For further information, visit www.numberbundle.com or email [email protected].

Anyone for tennis?Get outdoors and try tennis for free during the Great British Tennis Weekend on 1st & 2nd August. Free events for the whole family will be taking place across the country, offering players the chance to experience mini tennis, cardio tennis, coaching and relaxed free play. Rackets and balls will be provided and absolutely anyone can get involved. Whether you’ve never picked up a racket before or are a seasoned regular – all ability levels are welcome. Some of the events in the Chilterns include cardio tennis at David Lloyd High Wycombe; mini and junior tennis at Scotsbridge Playing Fields, Rickmansworth; and free play and mini tennis at Iver Heath Tennis Club.

Plus, Tennis4Kids are offering a free morning of tennis including fun ball games and tuition for kids plus cardio tennis for adults on Saturday 1st August, 8.45am–1pm at Pipers Corner School, Great Kingshill. See www.tennis4kids.co.uk or call Luke on 07505 863389 for more details, it’s guaranteed to be a fun day.

Summer discounts at Explore LearningKeep your kids brains ticking over during the summer holidays, check out your nearest Explore Learning centre where there’s £50 off the registration fee if you join in July.* With research showing that children can suffer a summer learning slide over

the holidays, it might be an easy way to make sure your kids don’t slide too much. ‘It’s surprising how much children’s academic ability slips over the summer holidays,’ says Carey Ann Dodah, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning.

‘It shouldn’t all be work, work, work – but just a couple of hours a week can make the world of difference when September comes around.’ Explore Learning has maths and English tuition centres across the UK, with local centres in Beaconsfield and High Wycombe. To book a free trial or find out more visit www.explorelearning.co.uk, or call Beaconsfield 01494 677488 or High Wycombe 01494 411147.

*Offer terms and conditions: 1. Only applicable when joining at the full membership rate when you join by 31/07/2015. 2. The offer may be used for more than one child from the same family. 3. The offer entitles new members to join without paying the registration fee. 4. Your induction session must be held by the 15/08/2015 5. Only available at participating centres.

5FAMILIESAdvertising deadline for the September/October Back to School issue, 23 July

News & Views

Register to join the challenge by 30th SeptemberVisit www.readingeggs.co.uk/rmcf Please note: This offer is only available for new customers who register at the above URL.

Register today for your 5 WEEK FREE TRIAL!

Join the Reading and Maths Challenge and keep the learning going for your child this summer with a 5 WEEK FREE TRIAL of the multi-award winning Reading Eggs and Mathseeds!

Designed for ages 3-6, the comprehensive online learning programmes feature hundreds of structured lessons and thousands of guided activities to help children learn essential early reading and maths skills.

Developed by experienced primary educators and trusted in over 16,000 schools worldwide, lessons are matched to your child’s ability and progress at a steady pace.

Children enjoy learning with fun characters, great songs and exciting rewards to help them stay motivated. Plus, you can track your child’s progress with detailed assessment reports.

Register today to start your 5 WEEK FREE TRIAL of Reading Eggs and Mathseeds. Registration is fast and easy!

Next year Masterchef!Congratulations to nine-year-old Ellen Sandford from High Wycombe who has won a place at the Beverley Glock Cookery School under a national scheme run by KalliKids (www.kallikids.com).

Beverley Glock Cookery School is running cookery courses are over the summer, find out more at www.beverleyglock.com or see our summer workshop guide on pages 12–17.

Be a Record Breaker this summerLooking for a way to keep the kids busy and make sure they don’t fall too far behind with their reading this summer? Head to your local library and sign up to the annual Summer Reading Challenge. It’s aimed at primary-school children who are encouraged to read six or more library books of their choice

during the holidays. This year the Challenge has teamed up with Guinness World Records for a Record Breaker theme – perfect for kids who love finding out lots of weird and wonderful facts.

There are collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate or medal for every child who completes the Challenge. There’s also a mini-Challenge for preschoolers, which is good if you‘re trying to get any September school starters into good habits.

The official launch date of the challenge is Saturday 11 July, find out more at www.recordbreakers.org.uk.

Practice makes perfectIf your child is taking the 11+ in September and you’re looking for some ways to help boost their confidence, check out Flying Start Tuition’s ‘Mocks in a Box’. Whether you want to improve

their exam technique, work on some weaker areas or improve their timing, the kit contains everything you need to run realistic mock tests at home including ten 45-minute mock test papers, in the style of the Durham CEM 11+ tests; answer sheets; mark schemes; stopwatch and even pencils. Find out more at www.flyingstarttuition.co.uk or call 01494 772 898.

FAMILIES6 July/August 2015

Clubs & Classes News

SUMMER CAMPS

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Would you like to learn Taekwondo? Here at STA we help you to develop and boost your self-confidence, fitness & discipline, whilst learning a self defence martial art! Classes are suitable for people of any age and ability, and all instructors are professional, experienced and fun to work with. We offer free trial lessons, so come down and give it a go!

For more information please visit: www.sidhutkd.co.uk

Keeping dancing at Junior DiscoMini John Travoltas and disco divas will love the newly launched Junior Disco in Beaconsfield that’s promising to bring a taste of Saturday afternoon fever to town once a month. Run by local mums Natalie and Lisa, the disco is aimed at primary-school children who love to dance and have fun, with music ranging from chart songs and disco classics to children’s favourite party tunes. There are different themes and activities every month, and there’s even a mini bouncy castle and ball-pit for tiny disco goers too. Parties are also available. Junior Disco runs on the last Saturday of every month, 2–5pm, at Revolution Beaconsfield. For more info, visit www.juniordisco.co.uk.

Drum School student hits Top 20John the Drum School in Chesham has had many happy clients over the past 18 years, the latest success being student Felix Archer, whose band Amber Run went in at number 19 in the album charts with debut album Spark.

If you fancy taking your first steps to rock stardom or just discovering a hobby that lasts a lifetime, the school offers a free introductory lesson. Lessons run throughout the holidays, seven days a week. Find out more at www.johnthedrumschool.com or call 01494 786422.

Calling all mini Wayne Rooneys and Steph Houghtons Football fans from 18 months can now join in the fun at the recently launched Little Kicks class (part of Little Kickers), which is specially designed for their age. The 45-minute class introduces kids to the basics of football (dribbling, striking, goal scoring etc) in a play-oriented yet structured format, all using child-friendly equipment. The primary goal is to settle children into the structure of the session, improve their confidence and attention, build on their basic motor skills and develop a good kicking technique. Little Kicks takes place every Thursday at 2.30pm at The Polish Club in Amersham. Call for a free taster class on 01442 506371, email [email protected] or visit www.littlekickers.co.uk.

Even more Monkey MusicMonkey Music fans will be delighted to know that classes have recently started at the Curzon Centre in Beaconsfield. Full of singing, dancing, instruments

and musical fun, Monkey Music classes are tailored to specific age groups in recognition of kids’ different

developmental needs. There’s a range of classes to choose from – Rock ’n’ Roll classes for children from three months to a year, Heigh-Ho (one to two), Jiggety-Jig (two to three) and Ding-Dong (three to four years). Monkey Music now offer classes in Beaconsfield on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, along with other classes in the Chilterns in Amersham, Gerrards Cross and Little Chalfont. Find out more, including how to enjoy a free Monkey Music class, by emailing [email protected] or call 01494 716861. For more information, please visit www.monkeymusic.co.uk.

Reach over 40,000 readers in the Chilterns, call 01296 586586 to advertise 7FAMILIES

Great Competitions from

WIN Little Summer Craft Boxes

Today is the day that Pongo the Pig has been waiting for – it’s his birthday. He’s been dropping hints to his friends all year, but nobody seems to remember. Molly-Moo is making a mess baking, Sheena the Sheep is rehearsing, Sally the Scarecrow is decorating – come along to this family show and find out what they’re up to! There’s lots of fun, songs and laughter, plus the chance to take part in High Wycombe’s biggest-ever game of pass the parcel. Lots of farmyard puppets and the voice of

Featuring CBeebies’ Justin Fletcher as Pongo the Pig make this a great show for three to seven year olds.

We have a family ticket to give away. To enter, just visit www.familieschiltern/competitions

Pongo’s Party is coming to Old Town Hall, High Wycombe, Sunday 2nd August at 2.30pm. To book tickets call 01494 552875 or visit www.wycombeswan.co.uk.

WIN tickets to Pongo’s Party

The Charles Chipperfield Circus returns to Odds Farm Park this summer and we have two family tickets to give away. There are two different themed shows, each with four performances a day, running throughout the holidays. All young pirates will love the Swashbuckling Pirate Shows (23–31 July, 8–14 and 22–28 August), with dancing, acrobatics, a jolly sing-along and, of course, pirates galore. Then every other week (1–7, 15–21 and 29 August–2 September) there’s the awesome Circus Spectacular with amazing acts from around the world including a Spanish clown, Japanese fast-speed juggler and more. Each show is followed by interactive workshops and all the extra fun is included in entry.

To enter our competition for family tickets (two adults, two children) just visit www.familieschiltern/competitions Odds Farm Park is located just minutes from Junction 2 of the M40, near Beaconsfield. For more information, call 01628 520188 or visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk

WIN family ticketsto Odds Farm Park

If you love walking but your toddler isn’t so keen, LittleLife’s Adventurer child carrier (suitable from six months to three years) could be the perfect solution to tired legs. Weighing just 1.9kg, the Adventurer is lightweight and with a fully-adjustable back-system and comfy padded shoulder straps, your toddler’s weight is evenly distributed, all helping to make sure the adult doesn’t feel too much like a packhorse. Loading and unloading the carrier is easy due to the kick-out stability leg, which lets you to place the carrier on the ground in an upright position, or collapse for storage.

We have one LittleLife Adventurer carrier to give away. To enter, just visit www.familieschiltern/competitions For more information visit www.littlelife.com

WIN a LittleLife Adventurer carrier worth £99.99

To celebrate the summer holidays we’re giving away an Oglee Poglee Little Summer Craft Box to five lucky readers. The boxes are a fantastic way to entertain your kids on a rainy summer’s day – design a lollipop, create a

seaside picture and make a postcard to send to a friend. Everything you need is packed in the box, open it up and let your child’s imagination lead the way.

To win, just visit www.familieschiltern/competitions For more information email [email protected] or visit www.ogleepoglee.co.uk.

The closing date to enter our competitions is August 4, except Pongo’s Party competition, which closes on July 27.

July/August 2015FAMILIES8

With all the animal activities plus Topsy TurvyTowers, Sky Trail, the A-Maizing Maze+, LambNational and loads more – there’s so much to doat Mead Open Farm whatever the weather!

Near Leighton BuzzardLU7 9JH01525 852954

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MOF-AM-15-082 Families 118x70.indd 1 14/05/2015 15:34

School’s out for summer and each day can be as much fun as the last. Come rain or shine, there’s so many fun activities to keep the kids entertained and they don’t all have to drain the coffers.

1 Go to the theatre – outside! Introduce your children to a little culture with the National Trust’s Outdoor Theatre Season (www.nationaltrust.org). This year’s highlights include Pongo’s Party (Hughenden, 8th Aug); The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (Cliveden, 27–28th Aug); The 3 Musketeers (Cliveden, 29th Aug); Treasure Island (Waddesdon, 7th Aug); The Tales of Beatrix Potter (Waddesdon, 8th Aug), & Dr Longitude’s Marvellous Imaginary Menagerie (Stowe, 24th July).

2 Take a dip This time of year provides the perfect opportunity to make swimming fun and get the whole family summer holiday ready. If the sun is shining and we get that long-awaited BBQ summer, head down to an open air swimming pool near you – Chesham Moor (www.cheshammoorfitness.org.uk), Wycombe Rye Lido (www.fusion-lifestyle.com/centres/Wycombe_Rye_Lido/) or Woburn swimming pool (www.facebook.com/woburnswimmingpool).

25 things to do this summer3Bring their favourite

stories to lifeFeed their imagination with a visit to the award-winning museum nestled in the pretty village of Great Missenden. There are stacks of activities, trails and workshops running throughout the summer holidays, many of which encourage reading and creative writing (these may incur extra charges). And if the sun’s shining, pick up a village trail from the museum and finish your visit trying to spot locations from

Dahl’s books– can you see the petrol pumps from Danny, Champion Of The World, Matilda’s library and the house that was the inspiration for Sophie’s orphanage in The BFG? See What’s On on

pages 27–30 for more events, or visit www.roalddahl.com/museum.

4 Get skatingDust off those skates and take the kids roller-skating. The Silver Wheels Roller Disco is rolling into the Old Town Hall, High Wycombe on August 1st, visit www.wycombeswan.co.uk for more info. There are different sessions for families and older children, and it’s also possible to hire skates. If you prefer an organised event, family skate sessions are held on Fridays in High Wycombe at 4.45pm–6.45pm (www.rollermaniahighwycombe.com). Or check out www.sportspace.co.uk/roller-skating for info on skating sessions at Sportspace Berkhamsted and Hemel Hempstead.

5 Go bouncing madKids climbing the walls? Get them to bounce their energy away with a visit to Bounce, a huge indoor trampoline park in Milton Keynes (www.bouncegb.com). There are five courts, one with over 40 interconnected trampolines lining the floors and walls so kids can bounce to their heart’s content. There’s also a foam pit and court for smaller kids only (three to seven years), and special junior sessions for three year olds only. We’re excited about the new Rush UK Indoor Trampoline Park that’s opening in High Wycombe this September. See our next issue to find out more.

6 Take a trip to the farmThere’s lots of new attractions at Mead Open Farm this summer including Shaggy’s Cove, a new sand play area complete with

water pump, sand funnels and plenty of buckets and spades. Little climbers will love the new Topsy

Turvy Towers, an outdoor playground full of climbing, swinging and sliding fun on treetop towers, wibbly wobbly bridges and long slippery tube slides. Combined with the farm, Shaggy’s indoor playworld, the a-maizing maze, tractor rides and other animal activities, there’s bucket loads of fun at the farm this year. Visit www.meadopenfarm.co.uk for more info.

7 Make a waterpark garden Set the garden sprinkler, limbo under the hose pipe jet and grab your water pistols for a fab afternoon of water fun in the garden – great when the weather’s warm and just as much fun when it’s raining.

Make this summer a sizzler

9FAMILIESFor lots more ideas for summer fun, visit www.familieschiltern.co.uk

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8 Head down to your local museum

One thing you can count on this summer is that there will be rain. When the heavens open, museums are rainproof and many of them are running kid-friendly activities during the summer holidays. There’s lots going on at Aylesbury’s Bucks County Museum (www.buckcountymuseum.org), which includes the Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery. Kids can discover Dahl’s wondercrump stories or get involved in art and craft activities to make Matilda’s brilliant bookbag, Charlie’s piggy bank or James’ giant insects.

You could also discover the truth behind unicorns and other mythical creatures at a hands-on exhibition running at The National History Museum in Tring (www.nhm.ac.uk). See What’s On (pages 27– 30) for more summer activities at these museums.

9 Activity circuitsRemember all those craft sets and activity packs, building blocks and construction kits that have remained untouched since the arrival of Minecraft? Station a selection around a table or on the floor and ask the kids to get builidng. Set a timer and every ten to 20 minutes blow a whistle and ask them to move on to the next activity.

10 Movie magicThere’s nothing more fun than watching a favourite film outside with a picnic blanket and popcorn. Check out these outdoor cinema events: Grease (28th Aug) and Mamma Mia (30th Aug), both at Stowe Landscape Gardens (www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stowe) and Stardust (29th Aug) at Black Park (www.buckscc.gov.uk/events).And don’t forget the special family screenings on Saturday and Sunday mornings at most local cinemas, including Cineworld High Wycombe; Odeon Aylesbury and Gerrads Cross; and Empire Hemel Hempstead and High Wycombe.

11 Say hello to Mrs Tiggywinkle

Take a visit to the only hedgehog museum in the UK, Tiggywinkles Animal Hospital in Haddenham. Wander the gardens and see if you can spot a variety of animals ranging from hedgehogs to foxes, take a peak into the hospital through the viewing windows or join a hedgehog talk to find out more about everyone’s favourite spiky mammal.There are extra wild activities for children and various animal talks throughout the holidays, for more details visit www.tiggywinkles.org.uk.

12 Enjoy the theatre for less If you fancy a trip to London and taking in a show, don’t miss Kids Week this summer. More than 40 shows will be offering free kids’ tickets to shows during August when bought in conjunction with an adult’s ticket. There are also many free activities and workshops for families available including: the chance to go backstage and meet the cast of the longest-running play in the world at The Mousetrap; join in a Billy Elliot The Musical ballet class; learn choreographic dance moves from the hit musical Jersey Boys; and discover the art of improvisation from The Play That Goes Wrong. Under 5s are invited to meet The Gruffalo or enjoy fun activities with Aliens Love Underpants. Tickets will be available to purchase online from 16 June via the website www.kidsweek.co.uk or phone 0844 248 5151.



FAMILIES10

With over 70 drop-in weekly workshops in a variety of subjects, live music, theatre and comedy on Friday and Saturday nights, exhibitions, volunteering opportunities and much more!

A welcoming and sociable place to be, get down to Queens Park Arts Centre to discover your creative spark.

Tel: 01296 431 272 / 01296 424 332 www.qpc.org

Queens Park Arts Centre, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP21 7RT

13 Green Dragon Eco Farm Check out Aylesbury Vale’s latest attraction, a rare breeds farm and eco centre near Claydon. This should be a fabulous fun day out as there’s plenty to do including a nature trail, messy play barn, adventure playground and of course meeting the centre’s animals, adult £5.50, child £4.50. Visit www.greendragonecofarm.co.uk.

14 Camp out under the stars You have the unique opportunity to camp at a National Trust property by joining the Big Camp at Cliveden (www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/) on Friday 10 July to Sunday 12 July or Friday 17 July to 19 July . You can also check out www.coolcamping.co.uk for some great locations across the country.

15 Explore two thousand years of history

This summer enjoy lots of exciting living history events at Chiltern Open Air Museum. Find out about life in medieval England, meet the soldiers from the Battle of Agincourt and watch out for vicious Vikings. You can also learn about Tudor farming and meet the Victorian villagers and villains (and try not to let them pick your pockets)! During the August bank holiday weekend you can meet King John’s barons, see archery displays and learn all about the Magna Carta. Visit www.coam.org.uk for more info.

16 Ride the railsThere are steaming days at Bucks Rail Centre (www.bucksrailcentre.org) every Sunday from 5th July to 23rd August, as well as Wednesdays during the holidays from 29th July. Enjoy unlimited rides on a full-size engine that will be running up and down the track and, for a small charge, jump on the miniature railway. There’s free car parking, picnic areas, shelter for rainy weather and a gift shop.

Plus, Thomas and Friends are at the railway at the beginning of September (5th and 6th). There’s a chance to meet the Fat Controller, have unlimited rides on a real steam engine and take part in Thomas-themed activities.

17 Visit LondonInstead of the usual tourist destinations, take the train and then a bus or tube (often this is the best bit), to check out one of London’s parks. At Kensington Gardens you can visit the fantastic Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground. The area’s main attraction is still the vast wooden pirate ship sailing in a sea of sand and, if you’re feeling cultural, you could visit the Serpentine gallery to see some modern art. Plus, you could also take in the impressive site of the Albert Memorial and the whimsical statue of Peter Pan. See opposite page for more fun and free things to do London.

July/August 2015

18 Keep their brains ticking over

Six weeks is a long time to be out of the classroom. Make a note of the days your local after-school support centre are running holiday sessions and sign up to keep little minds busy, some may also be offering taster days during the summer.

Flying Start Tuition are offering a range of summer courses at their Aylesbury and Chesham Centres including: year 5 eleven plus revision and practice courses, year 4 and 5 booster courses, eleven plus mock tests and mock feedback sessions. Find out more at www.flyingstarttuition.co.uk.

Explore Learning (Beaconsfield and High Wycombe) is open daily over the school holidays and offers a range of learning opportunities for children from 5–14yrs. They’re also offering £50 off registration this summer, see page 4 for more details or visit www.explorelearning.co.uk.

19 Arts and crafts at Queens Park Arts Centre

The Queens Park Arts Centre in Aylesbury has a selection of fabulous children’s workshops running over summer, perfect if you child loves

getting creative. Head to www.qpc.org and choose from pottery or art & craft sessions. All courses run 10am–3pm, £20 (£18 members), 7+yrs (some 5+yrs with

an accompanying adult). For a full list of summer workshops, see pages 12–17.

20 Make the most of your clubcard points

Start collecting Tesco Clubcard points and before they expire, double or triple the value and convert them into Days Out vouchers for some fab fun-filled days. Local attractions where you can use your vouchers include: Bekonscot Model Village, Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Butterfly World, the Legoland Windsor Resort, Paradise Wildlife Park, Thorpe Park, Willows Farm, Woburn Safari Park (see below) and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.


FAMILIES 11

T:01628 520188T:01628 520188OPEN DAILY 10AM – 5.30PMTEA ROOM & FREE PARKING

NR BEACONSFIELD,HP10 0LX (M40, J2)

Circus & Pirate ShowsCircus & Pirate ShowsExtra Fun During The Summer Holidays

See Website For Details

OFP-AM-15-055 – 118x70-FM.indd 1 02/06/2015 13:09

Amersham AdventuresFun holiday activities in the outdoors, based in the woodlands and grasslands at Mop EndShelter building, bush craft, bug hunting, crafts and themed adventure days.Friendly and experienced staff.

Summer 2015 – Whole day activities for 5-7s and 8-11s. 9.30am-3pm (Extended hours available 8.30am-5.30pm)Week One: 3rd-7th August - Environmental Explorer WeekWeek Two: 10th-14th August – Adventure Week£24 per day – 10% discount for whole week bookings & sibling bookings.

Amersham Field Centre at Mop EndTel: 01494 721054email: enquiries.am@field-studies-council.orgwww.field-studies-council.org/amersham

Extended hours now available

21 Get activeCheck out Green Park in Aston Clinton for a wide range of family activities. The newly refurbished indoor pool will be open for family use and the golf course is open 7-days a week. There’s also kayaking, high ropes, archery and mountain biking. Climbing towers are available for parties and can also be used by those taking part in Adventure Days, Family Adventure Breaks and Family Open Days. To find out more visit www.green-park.org.uk.

22 Dress up to the ninesIf your kids like dressing up, why not do a charity shop trawl to get some exciting outfits for a play or show. They can write the script themselves and then perform it to enthralled parents and friends. If your kids are older try and inspire them with some YouTubers that are into vintage clothes or look at some Pinterest boards, so they realise they don’t have to buy all their clothes from the High Street – recycling, upcycling and vintage are also cool. Check out www.rubysvintage.co.uk/ to find fairs in High Wycombe and across the South-East.

23 Go on safariA trip to Woburn Safari Park is a fun day out for the whole family. Go on safari and see wild animals up close, including elephants, giraffes, lions and tigers; before heading off on a foot safari through Desert Springs, Elephant Meadows, Penguin World and Sealion Cove. There’s plenty of other fun activities to keep you busy all day long –

pedalos on the lake, train rides, picnic and indoor play areas. Remember to wind up your windows when you meet the lions and tigers,

and especially when you visit the monkey sanctuary, although there’s no guarantee they won’t climb onto the roof of your car. Buy an e-ticket in advance on their website (www.woburnsafari.co.uk) for reduced ticket prices: adult £21.99 and child £13.99.

24 Create a cliffhangerVisit your nearest climbing wall and get your children to challenge themselves physically and mentally. Climbing improves lean muscle tone, encourages teamwork and requires concentration and problem solving skills. It’s also extremely exhilarating and great fun. There’s one in Amersham www.theclimbamersham.co.uk and Reading www.readingclimbingcentre.com.

25 Put the kids in chargeAsk your children to plan a day out and challenge them to surprise you with somewhere that you’ve never been before. We’ve got lots of ideas at www.familieschiltern.co.uk or visit your local library for inspiration. You may find a hidden gem right on your doorstep which could be your best summer day out yet, or they may plan a day to the local dump… surprise! At the very least it takes the pressure off you for planning another day’s activities… Make sure to post the photos any new places you find on the Families Chiltern facebook page (www.facebook.com/familieschiltern) or on twitter (@familiesChilter) with #SummerFamiliesFun.

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For lots more ideas for summer fun, visit www.familieschiltern.co.uk

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Touch Type Titans

Holiday courses BOOKING NOW!!

FAST, ACCURATE and AUTOMATIC typing for children aged 9-18 years Give your child this essential 21st century life-skill with Touch Type Titans’ short, FUN, after-school or holiday courses. Book now to help your child :

‘You want to put wings on the heels of your children? Teach them to touch type.’

John Sutherland, Professor, UCL

Save time Think whilst working Boost literacy skills Deal with dyslexia

www.touchtypetitans.com [email protected] 01494 723631

July/August 2015

Camps & playschemes

A PASSION FOR… HOLIDAY WORKSHOPSTel: 01235 832222, www.supercamps.co.uk/apf. Week-long courses for 6-14yrs designed to encourage the development of new and existing skills.Bourton Meadow Academy, Buckingham17–21 Aug, Arts & CraftsSir William Borlase’s Grammar School, Marlow10–14 Aug, Cultured Cooking17–21 Aug, The Great Supercamps Bake-offSwanbourne House School, nr Aylesbury27–31 July & 3–7 Aug, Arts & Crafts10–14 Aug & 17–21 Aug, InventionThe Beacon School, Chesham Bois3–7 Aug, Arts & Crafts17–21 Aug, InventionThe Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe27–31 July & 3–7 Aug, Cultured Cooking10–14 Aug & 17–21 Aug, The Great Supercamps Bake-off 17–21 Aug, Arts & Crafts24–28, Cultured CookingThe Royal Masonic School, Rickmansworth27–31 July, Cultured Cooking27–31 July, Invention3–7 Aug, The Great Supercamps Bake-off10–14 Aug, Arts & craftsWestbrook Hay School, Hemel Hempstead24–28 Aug, Invention

BARRACUDAS ACTIVITY DAY CAMPSWycombe Abbey, High Wycombe and Abbot’s Hill School, Hemel Hempstead.A range of over 80 activities including sports, arts, dance, drama & lots more. 27 July–21 Aug, 4.5–16yrs, 8.30am–5.30pm, wraparound care is also available 8am–6pm. £149 a week, £39 a day.Tel: 0845 1235299, www.barracudas.co.uk.

BASECAMPBerkhamsted Boys School, Castle StreetTel: 01442 358115, www.berkhamstedbasecamp.co.uk.Range of activities including sport, arts and crafts, and much more at Mini Basecamp (3–5yrs) and Multi Activity Camp (5–11yrs). From 6 July–28 Aug, 9.30am–4.30pm, wraparound care available. £144 a week, £32 a day. Coding Computers & Technology Challenges (7–11yrs), 9–10 July & 24–25 Aug, 9.30am–4.30pm, £80.Great British Baking (7–13yrs), 30 July, 9.30am–4.30pm, £65.More Whizz Bang Food (9–15yrs), 11 Aug, 9.30am–4.30pm, £65.Summer Baking & Ice Cream (7–13yrs), 27 Aug, 9.30am–4.30pm, £65.See more BASECAMP listings under ‘GET ACTIVE.’

BUSY LIVING HOLIDAY CLUBSAmersham (Elangeni School, Woodside Avenue), Chalfont St Peter (St Joseph’s School, Priory Road) & Aylesbury (Bearbrook School, Fowler Road).A range of pre-planned activities for children aged 4+ including cinema trips, bushcraft workshops, den building, park visits, cooking, crafts, water fights and more. Ofsted registered ‘Good’ in 2014. Open 8am-6pm with flexible, online bookings, full day and sibling discounts - see Handbook on website for further info.Tel: 01494 722318, email info@busy–living.co.uk, www.busy-living.co.uk.

CAMP WILDERNESSHall Barn, Old Beaconsfield. Two or three day camps for 7–14yrs in safari-style tents, interactive activities, traditional bushcraft, wilderness cookery and sports.1–2 & 8–9 Aug; 29–31 July, 3–5 & 12–14 Aug.Tel: 03332 004469, www.campwilderness.co.uk

KIDDIES ACADEMY SUMMER PLAYSCHEMEMaxwell Road, Beaconsfield. Tel: 01494 673088. Lots of activities, including arts, crafts, cookery, sport, drama, music, outdoor play and more. 20 July–28 August (Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm). Tel: 01494 673 088, www.kiddiesacademy.co.uk

MULTI–ACTIVITY DAY CAMPSTel: 01235 832222, www.supercamps.co.uk/multi. Games, sports & creative activities. For 4–14yrs, £180 a week, £45 a day. 13 July–21 Aug, The Beacon School, Chesham Bois13 July–21 Aug, Thorpe House, Gerrards Cross20 July–28 Aug, Griffin House, Little Kimble, Aylesbury20 July–28 Aug, The Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe20 July–28 Aug, The Royal Masonic School, Rickmansworth20 July–21 Aug, Swanbourne House School, Nr Aylesbury20 July–28 Aug, Westbrook Hay School, Hemel Hempstead27 July–28 Aug, Bourton Meadow Academy, Buckingham27 July–28 Aug, Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School, Marlow.

Crack the boredom code!Whether your children want to try a new sport, take to the stage or get arty, the summer holidays are a great opportunity to try something new and exciting. If you’re looking for inspiration, our essential guide will keep the kids busy all summer long. When you call, don’t forget to mention Families Chiltern.

Summer holiday activity guide

FAMILIES

BASE

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ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS FOR CHILDRENEVERY SCHOOL HOLIDAY

www.berkhamstedbasecamp.co.ukTel: 01442 358115

ADDITIONALHOURS 7.30AM -6.30PM

GYM l SWIMMING POOL l BADMINTON l TENNIS lFITNESS CLASSES l NETBALL l BASKETBALL AND MORE!

KNOX-JOHNSTON SPORTS CENTREKINGS ROAD, BERKHAMSTED, HERTS, HP4 3BG

TO JOIN CALL 01442 358224

KIDS SWIM FOR FREE THIS SUMMER AT KJSC*

From 20 July to 30 August 2015at Berkhamsted School

Swimming available at specific times. Mon-Fri 2-9pm; Sat 1-6pm; Sun 8am-8pm*Please bring this advert with you for free session. Terms & Conditions apply.

RAW ADVENTURE CAMPSWeek-long bushcraft/outdoor survival camps.For 7–14yrs, £189 a week.27–31 July, Thorpe School, Gerrards Cross27 July–7 Aug, Swanbourne House School, nr Aylesbury27 July–14 Aug, Griffin House, Little Kimble, Aylesbury3–21 Aug, The Beacon School, Chesham Bois10–14 Aug, Bourton Meadow Academy, Buckingham10–28 Aug, Westbrook Hay School, Hemel Hempstead17–28 Aug, The Royal Masonic School, Rickmansworth24–28 Aug, The Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe.Tel: 01235 832222, www.supercamps.co.uk/raw.

SPORTSPACE MULTI–ACTIVITY CAMPSSportspace Berkhamsted, Douglas Gardens and Sportspace Hemel Hempstead, Park Road, Hemel Hempstead.Sportspace activity camps (in partnership with Apex), for 5–11 yrs.20 July–1 September, 10am–3pm, £17 a day, £76.50 a week. Wraparound care available.Tel: 01442 507100, www.apex360.co.uk/apex-camps.

ULTIMATE ACTIVITY CAMPSBeaconsfield High School, Wattleton Road.Games, creative and sports activities. For 4–14 yrs.27 July–28 Aug, 8.30am–5.15pm, wraparound care also available 8am–6pm. £40 a day, £189 a week. Tel: 0844 870 7077, www.ultimateactivity.co.uk.

WILDCHILD RESIDENTIAL CAMPPhasels Wood Activity Centre, Kings Langley. Two day camp for 8–12yrs offering outdoor adventures & bushcraft activities. 4–5 Aug,9am–4.30pm, £139. Tel: 0845 3717099, www.wildchildactivities.com.

WOODROW HIGH HOUSE SUMMER CAMPSWoodrow High House, Cherry Lane, Amersham. Fun, educational activities which may include den building, archery, swimming, sport and low ropes. 23 July–7 Aug & 17 Aug–2 Sept, 8.30am–4.30pm.Two age groups, 5–7yrs & 8–11yrs. £37/day, £148/wk. Tel: 01494 433531, www.londonyouth.org.

Get active

ALF VILLAGES–GREEN PARK & LONGRIDGEGreen Park, Stablebridge Road, Aston Clinton, Longridge, Quarry Wood Road, Marlow. Summer days full of outdoor fun are on offer at ALF Villages, Longridge in Marlow and Green Park in Aston Clinton. Both villages are offering a range of adventurous activities for children of all ages to enjoy including holiday activity days, family weekends and you can also book your own day, or afternoon of fun. Courses in fencing, archery, kayaking and rowing are available and, at Longridge this summer, there will be Lazer Quest and residential weeks throughout August. Tel: 0330 303 0101, www.alfvillages.org.uk.

AQUA-VIE SUMMER SWIM INTENSIVEBushey Meadow Wood.Five-day swimming course to improve and enhance skills for the summer holidays or to increase water confidence for little ones, 3mths–adults, 27–31 July, £75.Tel: 01923 245773, [email protected], www.aqua-vie.com.

ARSENAL SOCCER CAMPSSportspace Berkhamsted, Douglas Gardens and Sportspace Longdean, Rumballs Road, Hemel Hempstead.Soccer camps for 6–13 yrsBerkhamsted: 24 –26 August.Hemel Hempstead: 27–29 July and 17–19 August. Tel: 01442 507100, www.playthearsenalway.com.

BASECAMPTel: 01442 358115, www.berkhamstedbasecamp.co.ukBerkhamsted Pre–Prep, Haresfoot siteCricket (6–11yrs), 13–17 July, 9.30am–4.30pm, £160 a week, £40 a day.Haslam Playing Fields, Shooter swayCombined Sports Skills (7–11yrs), 21–23 July, 9.30am–4.30pm, £110 for 3 days, £40 a day.Langley Tennis Club, Kings LangleyTennis (4–14 yrs), 20 July–28 Aug, 9am–4pm, £160 a week, £40a day.Berkhamsted School, Kings RoadLouis Smith Gymnastics Academy (5–14 yrs) 12–14 Aug, 9.30am–4.30pm, £150 a week, £55 a day.

Andrew Flintoff Cricket Academy (5–16yrs), 3–7 Aug, 9.30am–4.30pm, £180 a week, £40 a day.Gold Medal Academy (5–16yrs), 27–31 July,

9.30am–4.30pm, £170 a week, £40 a day.International Netball Roadshow (girls 7–16yrs), 22–24 July & 17–19 Aug, £120a week, £45 a day.Ultimate Lacrosse Experience (7–16yrs), 10–11 Aug, £75 a week, £40 a day.

COMBINED GOLF & TENNIS CAMPS Stoke Park Country Club, Stoke Poges.Children 5–12 yrs can learn golf and tennis in one day.28–31 July, 4–7, 18–21 & 25–28 Aug, 10am–3pm, £65/day, sibling discount available.Tel: 01753 7171171, [email protected], www.stokepark.com.


For lots more ideas for summer fun, visit www.familieschiltern.co.uk FAMILIES

ALF Villages

14

Running throughout the summer holidays and catering for all standards. Tots and mini tennis from 2 years old through to all-day junior camps.

Come and have some fun this summer at Peter Lavery Tennis. Apply early to avoid disappointment.

Visit www.peterlaverytennis.com for an application form or call Peter on 07885 206587 or email

Summer Tennis Campsat Chesham Bois Tennis Club

[email protected]

July/August 2015

FIT 4 SPORT ACTIVITY CAMPSThe Beacon Sports Centre, Beaconsfield. Activity, play & creative sessions for 3–12yrs. 9.30am–4.30pm, wraparound care also available, 8.30am–5.30pm. Tel: 0845 4563233, www.fitforsport.co.uk.

KOBIKA DANCE ACADEMYSir William Ramsay School, Hazlemere.Dance and cheerleading workshops for children 5–19 yrs on 3–7 August including street dance, lyrical, contemporary, musical theatre, stunting, commercial and more. Plus a professional dance photo shoot and free photo. £25/day £99/wk Tel: 07825 336 827, [email protected], www.kobikadance.co.uk.

LITTLE KICKERSAmersham Beaconsfield, Chorleywood, High Wycombe, Seer Green.Football-based physical activity classes for 18 months – 7 yrs. Children can develop co-ordination, balance, agility and social skills through football. Courses running throughout the summer holidays. Please call for a free trial class, (subject to availability). Tel: 01442 506371, email [email protected], www.littlekickers.co.uk.

MOVIE MARTIAL ARTS HOLIDAY CAMPHoly Trinity School, Cookham 3-7 AugustGerrards Cross Memorial Centre 17-21 AugustPenn, High Wycombe 24th-28th AugustFor 4–12yrs, from beginners to those experienced in martial arts. Learn dramatic flying and jumping kicks, flips, throws and strikes from the movies, under safe, experienced and qualified tuition. Children gain confidence, invaluable self-protection skills and have lots of active fun. £28/1 day, £50/2 days or £115/week. Tel: 07828 534817, [email protected], www. TheSamuraiFitnessGroup.com

MULTISPORTS AMERSHAM & CHORLEYWOOD SUMMER WORKSHOPDr Challoner’s High School, Little Chalfont. Activities include gymnastics, circus skills, lacrosse, cricket & games.27–31 July, 4–6yrs, 9.30am–12.30pm, £125; 6–16yrs, 9am–4pm, £235. Tel: 0844 3350450, www.themultisportsgroup.co.uk.

PETER LAVERY TENNIS Chesham Bois Tennis Club. All standards for 2–17yrs, from tots and mini-tennis sessions through to all-day junior camps. 13 July–27 Aug, Mon–Thurs only. Tel: 07885 206587, www.peterlaverytennis.com.

PFO SUMMER FOOTBALL CAMPSChalfont Saint Giles Junior School, Parsonage Road.A fun way for kids 5–11yrs to express themselves playing football. Drills in the morning are followed by fun team games and tournaments.July to September: 9.15am–4pm or 10am–3pm.Tel: 07805955305, email [email protected], www.pfoltd.co.uk.

SERIOUSLY FUN SWIMMING SCHOOLTeikyo Japanese School, Wexham. Five-day intensive swimming course, 27–31 July. 9am–11am (30-minute classes), £70.Tel: 01753 364364, www.seriouslyfun.net.

TENNIS 4 KIDSLee Common Court, next to Lee Village shop & Pipers Corner School, Great Kingshill.Sessions aim to improve confidence, agility, balance & co-ordination, ball control and racket skills. Courses run: 27 July–28 Aug.Under 5s: 9.15am–10am, £7 a day, £25 a week; 5–8yrs: 10am–noon, £14 a day, £55 a week; & 9–14yrs: 10am–3pm, £30 a day, £120 a week.Tel: 07505 863389, email [email protected], www.tennis4kids.co.uk.

THE ELMS MULTI-SPORT CAMPLittle Chalfont Primary School, Oakington Avenue. Tennis, football, cricket, baseball, hockey, athletics & more activities for 4–12yrs. 27–29 July, 3–5 & 10–12 Aug, 9am–12.45pm, 1.15–5pm or 9am–5pm. £23 am or pm session, £35 a day, £90 for three-day week. Tel: 020 8954 8787, www.elmsholidayschemes.co.uk.

WILDCHILD OUTDOOR SUMMER ADVENTURE DAYSPhasels Wood Activity Centre, Kings Langley. Escape from Wildchild WoodActivities including zip wire, abseiling, low ropes & den building. For 7–12yrs. 5, 12 & 20 Aug, 10am–3.15pm, £35.Wild Survivor Adventure DayActivities for 7–12yrs include shelter building, fire lighting, tracking and navigation games, wood carving & water filtration. 11 & 17 Aug, 10am–3pm, £35.Tel: 0845 3717099, www.wildchildactivities.com.

WINNING START CRICKET CAMPSChorleywood Cricket Club. Selected dates in summer holidays, 10am–3.30pm, 5–11yrs, £25 a day, £40 for two days.Tel: 07730 601411, www.winning-start.co.uk.


FAMILIES

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For lots more ideas for summer fun, visit www.familieschiltern.co.uk

Drama and music

FAIRYTALE ACADEMY Amersham and High Wycombe.Workshops in drama, singing and music; various themes from Frozento Cinderella. Selected dates in July & August.Tel: 07717879993, www.noizeeproductions.co.uk.

MONKEY MUSICAmersham, Beaconsfield, Gerrards Cross, Little Chalfont.Musical fun for little monkeys at weekly holiday classes throughout summer. Classes are available for mixed age groups (40 min a class for 3 months–7 yrs) or for under 12 months there are 30 minute baby classes. You do not have to be a Monkey Music member to attend but all children must be accompanied by an adult. Beaconsfield 31 July–19 Aug, Gerrards Cross 6–27 Aug, Amersham 10 Aug & Little Chalfont 1 Sept. Normal classes resume week of 7 Sep, bookings accepted now.Tel: Elen 01494 716861, email [email protected], www.monkeymusic.co.uk.

NOIZEE PRODUCTIONSAmersham and High Wycombe.1– 3 day drama, singing and music workshops available in July & August.Tel: 07717879993, www.noizeeproductions.co.uk.

PERFORM– THE ICE QUEEN SUMMER WORKSHOPSIf you’re looking for a fun summer activity for your 4-7 year old then come and join a Perform drama, dance and singing workshop based on “The

Ice Queen” story over July and August.Together with a team of

experienced theatre professionals, the children will combine live original music, inspirational dance and quick-witted improvisation and colourful costumes into a mini performance on the final day.

Perform Summer Experiences are courses specially designed to encourage creativity, confidence and communication skills as well as

being a kaleidoscope of fun. £153, plus sibling discount available.Amersham: 27– 31 July, 2.30–4.30pm.Beaconsfield: 27–31 July or 10–14 Aug, 10am–noon.Gerrards Cross: 10–14 Aug, 2.30–4.30pm.Wendover: 17–21 Aug, 10am–noon. Book by 1st July and receive an early-bird discount when you quote Families Chiltern. Tel: 020 7255 9120, www.perform.org.uk.

POPSTARS ACADEMY SUMMER WORKSHOPSBeaconsfield: Two workshops (Dance Crazy and Dance & Sing) for 6–12yrs. Both courses will culminate in a final performance to parents at the end and all children will receive a free Popstars t-shirt, medal and certificate. 3–7 & 10–14 Aug, 10am–4pm. £115 PSA & returning students, £130 non-members.Amersham: Daily workshops for 4 – 9 yrs on 17th, 18th and 19th August, 10am– 2pm, £25. Tel: Hazel 01753 650 090, [email protected], www.PopstarsAcademy.com.

ROCKJAM MUSIC SCHOOLAmersham and Berkhamsted.3 day Rock School summer course for 6–16yrs. Students will learn new skills on their instrument of choice, get to Rock Out at a performance on the last day and also record a CD to keep. All abilities welcome.Tel: 07730 922449, www.rockjammusicschool.com.

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FAMILIES

July/August 2015FAMILIES16

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E: [email protected]: 01753 650 090

www.PopstarsAcademy.com

Popstar Parties Street Dance Mamma MiaHigh School Musical GreasePrincess and Pirate Parties

E: [email protected]: 01753 650 090

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Street Hip HopFun Dance Classes

Amersham Beaconsfield High Wycombe Tylers Green

Street Hip HopFun Dance Classes

Amersham Beaconsfield High Wycombe Tylers Green

POPSTAR TOTS NOW HEREMonday, Wednesday

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SUMMER WORKSHOPS NOW BOOKING!

STAGECOACH SUMMER WORKSHOPS Week-long workshops featuring lots of singing, dancing and acting – gain invaluable experience in performing, develop confidence and make new friends.Amersham 01494 565402, email [email protected] In A Week, ‘The Lost Witch’(6-16yrs), 3–7 Aug, 10am–4pm, £160.On Safari Activity Week, (4-6yrs), 3–7 Aug, 9.30am–12.30pm or 1.30–4.30pm, £95.Aylesbury 01296 747758, email [email protected] & The Beast (8–18yrs), 27–31 July, 10am–4pm, £160.Peter Pan (4–8yrs), 27–31 July, 9.30am–12.30pm, £120.Berkhamsted & Hemel Hempstead 01442 875977, email [email protected] End Workshop (6–18yrs), 27–31 July, 10am–4pm, £140.Musical Fun (3.5–6yrs), 27–31 July, 9.30am–12.30pm, £110.High Wycombe 01494 533203, email [email protected] Bugs & Fairies Fun (4-6yrs), 3–7 Aug, 10am–12.30pm, £90Annie (6-16yrs), 3–7 Aug, 9.30am–4.30pm, £150.Starlight Express (14+yrs) 1000-1700pm, £150Thame 01865 763767, email [email protected] Red Hoody (6–18yrs), 17–21 Aug, 10am–4pm, £160.www.stagecoach.co.uk

THE PERFORMING ARTS CLUBVictoria Infant School, Berkhamsted, 27–29 July, final day at Civic Centre, Berkhamsted, 30 July. Four-day fun, drama, dance music & art workshop for 5–13yrs. 9.30am–3pm, wraparound care also available 8am–4pm, £116. Tel: 01442 874154, www.active-creative.com.

THROUGH THE WARDOBE CHILDREN’S THEATRESt Joseph’s Parish Centre, Chalfont St Peter. July 29–31, 10.30am–3.30pm, £80. Three day theatre workshop for 7–14yrs including casting, rehearsing and performing in ‘Shrek’. Follow the adventures of Shrek and his fairytale pals, with special guests parts - ‘Minions!’ This year they will also be offering a limited number of technical places to help make props, build sets and work backstage.Tel: 01753 892009, www.through-the-wardrobe.com.

Arts, Crafts and Cookery

BEVERLEY GLOCK COOKERY SCHOOL Ice Cream & Summer Baking (5–12 yrs), 28 July, 10am–1pm, £37.50.Scrumptious Picnic Food (5–12 yrs), 4 Aug, 10am–1pm, £37.50.European Baking Day (8–15yrs), 18 Aug, 10am–3.30pm, £65.Italian Day (8–15yrs), 25 Aug, 10am–3.30pm, £65.Princes Risborough, Tel: 01844 275692, www.beverleyglock.com.

K 4 KIDS ARTBedford Avenue, Little Chalfont. Creative art workshops on selected dates in July and August. Activities may include painting, bubble writing, art games, sculpture & photography. 10am–3pm, 6–11yrs, £45 per day and sibling discount available. Tel: 07947 037473, [email protected].

OGLEE POGLEE Berkhamsted.Each summer workshop in August offers a choice of six creative activities for children 2–7yrs with lots to explore, something huge to paint, stories and fun art techniques. Tel: 07976 447130 [email protected], www.ogleepoglee.co.uk.

QUEENS PARK ARTS CENTRE – SUMMER WORKSHOPSQueens Park Arts Centre, Aylesbury.Tel: 01296 424332, www.qpc.org.All courses run 10am–3pm, £20 (£18 members), 7+yrs (some 5+yrs with an accompanying adult)Pottery Aylesbury Ducks, 27 JulyFlower Fairy Summer Bower, 28 JulyPottery Teddy Bear’s Picnic, 29 JulyCats Go Castaway, 30 JulyPottery Decorative Masks, 3 AugustWanderHouse Workshop - Bear in a Book, 4 AugustPottery Make your own Monster, 5 AugustBig Birds are Back! 6 AugustPottery Fishes, 10 AugustSquirrel and the Treehouse, 11 AugustPottery Mushroom Houses, 12 AugustHedgehog’s Adventure, 13 August.

Languages and tuition

FLYING START TUITIONThe Broadway, Chesham.Flying Start Tuition are running a number of courses throughout the summer holidays at their Chesham

and Aylesbury centres including:Year 5 Eleven Plus Revision and Practice CoursesYear 4 and 5 Booster CoursesEleven Plus Mock TestsMock Feedback SessionsPast mock test papers also available to purchase. Wrap around care available.

Tel: 01494 772898, email [email protected] or visit www.flyingstarttuition.co.uk.

THE LITTLE LANGUAGE ACADEMYGerrards Cross, Memorial Centre. French holiday camps for 3–10yrs.24–26 Aug, 10am–2pm, wraparound care also available 9–10am or 2–3pm. £30 a day.Tel: 07903 525070, www.thelittlelanguageacademy.co.uk.

TOUCH TYPE TITANS The Drive, Amersham.Touch typing courses for 9–18 yrs.13–17 July, 9.30am–12.30pm.20–24 July, 9.30am–12.30pm.All courses are £140, plus optional software £25.Private tuition is also available.Tel: 01494 723631, email [email protected], www.touchtypetitans.com.

SUMMER CAMPS!Everyday of the summer holidays!

Summer Camps Tots & Futsal running throughout the summer More information please visit:www.PFOltd.co.uk


For lots more ideas for summer fun, visit www.familieschiltern.co.uk 17FAMILIES

BASECAMP offers a variety of activity day camps for children aged 3-16 years every school holiday

www.berkhamstedbasecamp.co.ukTel: 01442 358115

ADDITIONALHOURS 7.30AM -6.30PM

at Berkhamsted School

NEW THIS SUMMER! 12-14 AUGUSTLOUIS SMITH GYMNASTICS ACADEMY

For children aged 5 -14 years

Call: 01442 507100 | www.sportspace.co.uk

busy this summer!Keep the kids ss

Call 01442 507100 | www sportspace co uk

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Swimming

Large Pool Inflatables

Scuba

Activity Camps

Dance Camps

Golf

Trampolining

Fencing

Soccer School

Tennis

Badminton

High Ropes

Caving

Skatepark

Climbing



By Hannah Hunter As parents we know that children are happy in the outdoors and once even the most hardened of city-dwellers have got used to the damp and mud, they revel in unstructured time spent in the natural world. This applies not only to small children, but older ones too – contact with nature is known to impact positively on teenage anxiety and depression.

Outdoor play can develop children’s understanding of risk and test their emotional and physical strength. Learning how high they can climb or how brave they can be teaches them about themselves, as well as how they relate to the environment. Contact with nature has even been shown to increase creativity and language development. Children’s activity levels automatically go up when they’re outdoors. As childhood obesity has a direct link with inactivity, outdoor learning could be a key to tackling this growing problem.

Despite this, many of today’s children are missing out. According to Stephanie Hilborne OBE, Chief Executive of The Wildlife Trusts, ‘Children in 2015 are spending half as much time outdoors as they were a generation ago and it can’t be unrelated that one in ten children suffer from depression. Society is starting to realise the risks that this separation from our natural environment poses to our children’s health and happiness.’

What can you do as a parent to increase your kids’ contact with nature? l Get them involved in holiday workshops,

after-school activities and clubs and classes that are designed to encourage outdoor learning. Many schools have nature or gardening clubs, often run by parent volunteers. Tried-and-tested outdoor organisations such as the Scouts and Girl Guides also offer a range of activities and camps.

l Amersham Field Centre provide a variety of outdoor learning courses throughout

the year. Here’s a taste of what’s happening this summer: Environmental Explorer Week (3rd to 7th August) is full of fun ways for 5–7 and 8–11 year olds to learn about nature with bug safaris, minibeasts and dinosaur discovery just some of the fun planned; while Adventure Week (10th to14th August) includes themed activities each day such as Barnaby Bear’s Bushcraft Adventure, Star Wars Day and Watery World. The Centre also hold free community days (details to follow). To find out more visit www.field-studies-council.org/amersham.

l Chiltern Open Air Museum (www.coam.org.uk) offer a wide variety of outdoor learning opportunities – visit and let the kids travel back in time through their historic buildings and grounds; and don’t

miss this summer’s themed events where you can learn about life in medieval England, meet some vicious Vikings and find out about life on a Tudor farm. There are also themed family crafts and activities every Tuesday in August.

Family nature daysl Amersham Field Centre hold free

community days for local families to learn about nature and wildlife including BioBlitz on 11th July, 10am–4pm and Summer Community Day on 31st July, 10am –3pm.

l Find your nearest woodlands at the Forestry Commission website (www.forestry.gov.uk). If you find it hard to get the kids walking, check out the Commission’s free app with maps and local information trails and activities. At Wendover Woods you can buy a pack that will take you on a Superworm trail, which includes activities and challenges for younger kids.

l The Wildlife Trusts run activities across the UK organised by local groups for families and children, ranging from ‘nature tots’ toddler groups to family pond-dipping days. Visit www.wildlifetrusts.org to find out more.

l To get the whole family moving, you could try geocaching. The National Trust has set up free trails – all you need is a GPS-enabled device that uses co-ordinates (you can use a smartphone). Download co-ordinates to find the caches (small waterproof boxes of ‘treasure’). The Trust also provides less ‘techy’ outdoor activities for families – their 50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾ is a good starting point.

l You can pledge some ‘wild time’ with your children by signing up to The Wild Network (www.projectwildthing.com), an organisation dedicated to reconnecting children with nature. There’s a calendar of different events, as well as lots of fun activity ideas that will get you and your kids outdoors.

Nature’s classroomOutdoor learning

beatabecla/Depositphotos.com

19FAMILIESAdvertising deadline for the September/October Back to School issue, July 20th


We all know the importance of reading to babies and toddlers, but it’s equally vital that we continue to read to them, and with them, to support and encourage them as they learn to read for themselves. Here’s how to help them on their way to becoming confident readers who enjoy books.

1. However committed you were to the bedtime story routine, once your kids become a bit older it’s easy to let it slide – they want to play in the garden or watch tv and you’re secretly quite happy to get on with catching up with some jobs. However, it’s really important to continue reading to them. Not only will your child love some one-on-one time with you, but it also helps them to learn about the fluency of reading as they hear you modelling appropriate speed, pacing and intonation.

2. Find different types of books – picture books, short stories, simple chapter books, poetry, etc. And don’t forget non-fiction, kids love to know about the world and how things work and if they’re interested in the subject then they’re far more likely to enjoy reading about it. Remember: you’re the expert on your child, you know them better than anyone else and you will have a better idea of what subjects they will or won’t enjoy.

3. Remember that sometimes you too just don’t feel like reading, so don’t force them to read if they’re not in the mood. Read to them or suggest that they read one page and you the next. Another way to get them going might be to ask them to read to a teddy or favourite toy.

4. Give them time to experience the book as a whole. Don’t expect them to sit down with a picture book and read the story without looking at the pictures, they’re there to bring the story to life and in most books will help the reader to understand what the words are telling them.

5. If they’re struggling with a word and want you to read it for them, ask them if they recognise any letters or sounds within the word. Point specifically to parts of the word, or help them to break longer words down into shorter segments. Then blend the sounds together to form the full word.

6. Don’t tell them ‘you know this word’, even if you know they do. If they knew it, or remembered it, they would have read it; it’s frustrating and demoralising to be reminded that you know something but have forgotten it. Instead help

them to work the word out themselves, either using the previous tip or by asking them to look at the picture for clues. Learning to read is not just about decoding a jumble of letters, it’s also about understanding the meaning of the words in the correct context and the pictures can help.

7. If they make a mistake and don’t notice, don’t interrupt them. Let them finish the sentence before asking them to read the word again. If they make a mistake again, ask them ‘Does that sound right?’ or ‘Does that make sense?’

8. Talk about the book afterwards – ask them what their favourite part of the story was, or why they thought a certain character did something. Make sure you tell them what you thought as well, especially if parts of the storyline could have been seen differently from another viewpoint.

9. Always praise their reading efforts. Hearing you say ‘I was so impressed with how you worked out that tricky word using clues from the pictures,’ will boost their confidence and make them feel proud of their achievements.

10. Finally, let them see you reading regularly and, more importantly, getting enjoyment from reading. If reading is a normal habit for you, then it’s likely that your child will pick up that habit, too.

Remember, it’s free to join your local library; you can take out books, CDs and DVDs as well as downloading e-books. For pre-schoolers there are regular Storytime and Bounce & Rhyme sessions, while for older kids Chatterbooks and book clubs. Find out more at www.buckscc.gov.uk/libraries or www.hertsdirect.org/libraries.

How toget your childrenreadingWant to turn your good reader into a book worm?Sal Jefford has some top tips.

School matters

School matters

21FAMILIESWould you like copies of Families Chiltern to give to parents? Call 01296 586586

Eleven Plus tests looming?Sometimes, test preparation can become a bit overwhelming - even more so over the long school holidays when progress often slips back.

Eleven Plus Holiday Courses and Mock TestsIf your child is sitting the Eleven Plus this year, Flying Start’s holiday courses and mock tests will ensure they feel prepared, confident and ready to face the big day. Experience has shown that pupils who attend our holiday courses and mock tests have a greater chance of success, so don’t delay - book your summer tuition today!t: 01494 772 898e: [email protected]: www.flyingstarttuition.co.uk

Need a little help this summer?

Come and get some real mock test practice - it will help!

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Parenting

Fun French for children aged 2-9 years

The Little Language Academy

Mondays and Thursdays atThe Memorial Centre, Gerrards Cross

Easter, Summer and Christmas Camps

Debbie Lomax: 07903 525070

info@thelittlelanguageacadamy.co.ukwww.thelittlelanguageacademy.co.uk

Under 5’s Parenting ConsultationsDr Sharon LewisChartered Clinical Psychologist

I work with parents of babies and young children to develop confidence to deal with emotional and behavioural problems, including:

✎ sleeping difficulties ✎ eating difficulties ✎ toileting difficulties ✎ anxiety

I have 20 years clinical experience and I am registered with the Health Professions Council and the British Psychological society.

Tel: 07515 863913Email: [email protected]

Self-esteem is the term psychologists use to describe how a person feels about their innate worth as an individual, their skills and attributes, and how they interact with the world.

True self-esteem is something we build up ourselves, as we work to master new skills, stick to our values and exhibit social behaviours such as care and empathy for others. Egotism, on the other hand, is an unhealthy focus on one’s self and a disregard for others, a feeling of being better than everyone else and, often, a fear of failure.

Children who have what might be called an artificially high self-esteem may have been given overblown praise for no real reason, or have not been taught to empathise with others. They may develop a sense of superiority, struggle to form healthy relationships, and find it hard to understand why they don’t automatically succeed at everything they attempt.

Then there are the kids with low self-esteem. Many children who regularly misbehave already view themselves in a

highly negative way. They may feel inadequate and/or lack the desire to achieve goals and face challenges.

Children who have healthy, balanced self-esteem are likely to be happy and co-operative, and make friends easily. They’re eager to learn and succeed, and they can cope with stress effectively. However, children aren’t born with healthy self-esteem. We first learn our view of ourselves during childhood, through the interactions we have with the people around us. So it’s crucial for parents and carers to help children develop a true sense of their own strengths and weaknesses.

So how do you build healthy self-esteem in children?1. Take a consistent, positive approach to

their upbringing. Tell your child you love them, and demonstrate this by spending time talking to and playing with them so they feel valued and cared for.

2. Watch your words – constant criticism can create low self-esteem and make problematic behaviour even worse.

3. Display confidence in their ability to persist and let them attempt appropriate things by themselves. It’s also important to teach them that mistakes are important ways of learning, show them how to set realistic goals and work towards them.

4. Follow a healthy lifestyle. Taking care of one’s self with regular exercise, healthy food and grooming habits all help children develop a positive self-image.

5. Teach them to be balanced. When they’ve made an effort and mastered a new skill or achieved something, teach them to enjoy their accomplishments, without gloating or boasting. Help them understand that everyone is good at different things.

6. Tell them that life isn’t always about winning. Your role is not to make every problem disappear or smooth over every bad feeling; instead, let your child express how they feel and assure them you understand. They’ll develop a deeper sense of self-worth as they learn that with a bit of help from you, they can work out reasonable ways to deal with strong emotions.

7. Encourage a sense of humour. Laughter really is a great medicine and it doesn’t hurt kids to see that even parents can laugh at themselves sometimes. Enjoying the little things in life helps people cope with tough times. Help your child to laugh by listening to their stories, playing games and having fun together.

Are you getting the balance right? It can be quite challenging to build a child’s self-esteem without overdoing it. With too little praise a child’s self-esteem can suffer, but with too much children can develop a distorted sense of entitlement and their own abilities. Professor Matt Sanders, founder of the Triple P Positive Parenting Program®, explains how to get the balance right.

Professor Matt Sanders is the founder of the Triple P — Positive Parenting Program®, based on over 30 years of ongoing research and used around the world. One of the goals of the Triple P — Positive Parenting Program® is to empower parents by providing them with evidence-based knowledge, skills and strategies to handle various parenting challenges. To find out more, visit www.triplep-parenting.uk.net/online/.


23FAMILIESOur September/October issue will be full of great clubs and classes,email [email protected] to be included.

Great Missenden Buckinghamshire HP16 0AL | 01494 892192

roalddahl.com/museum | roalddahl.com/shop

Join us to celebrate 10 magical Museum years this summer...

...meet marvellous authors and make Enormous Crocodile crafts.

During their 26-year history, Stagecoach Theatre Arts have trained well over a million children, providing them with key life skills through an education in drama, dance and music. Stagecoach pride themselves on the ability to instill confidence and build self-esteem in students, enabling them to develop their skills and have fun in a safe and nurturing environment. Many students go on to enjoy a successful career in the world of performing arts but, whatever their ambitions, children learn to develop a wide range of skills that prepare them for school, university and the career of their choice.

‘I was very shy and quiet as a child,’ says David. ‘Drama classes gave me the confidence I needed to take on life in a whole new way. I made friends, developed new skills and my confidence soared. Life is full of little performances, whether you’re attending a university interview, delivering a presentation or giving a best man’s speech, an education in the arts provides the ability to approach them all with confidence. I believe my training has enabled me to undertake any situation, however daunting, with confidence and I feel lucky to be providing such important training to the students of Berkhamsted and Hemel Hempstead.’

‘Having recently taken over as Principal, I’ve already witnessed some of our kids developing and growing in confidence. One of our oldest students was incredibly nervous when she joined us and refused to venture out from behind the curtains, but we soon persuaded her it was more fun to join in. Last term she played the lead role in our end-of-term production and blew us all away – we can’t quite believe the journey she’s been on, her confidence is astounding and a real testament to

how much a child can develop during our classes.’

David himself has found great success in the performing arts. His training as a child has led him to a successful career in television, film and on the West End stage, and he believes that the skills he learnt helped in so many ways. ‘We encourage our students to learn from each other as well as from their teachers and this helps them learn how to listen properly, how to respect other people’s opinions and how to present their own ideas. These skills will stay with them for life and I’m so grateful that I experienced these classes at such a young age.’

Stagecoach offers weekly classes and holiday workshops (see our Summer camps feature on pages 12-17) in Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted & Hemel Hempstead, High Wycombe & Marlow and Thame. For more info, visit www.stagecoach.co.uk.

Life is full of little performances

David Hunter, the Principal at Stagecoach Berkhamsted and Hemel Hempstead, explains why he believes an education in the performing arts improves self-confidence in children.

Five ways to improve your child’s confidence

1. Lead by example – be confident in your own interactions. However remember it’s fine to tell your kids you sometimes feel nervous, explain it’s perfectly normal and everyone does.

2. Encourage your child to pursue their interests and follow them through to completion.

3. Give them the opportunity to socialise safely with people of all ages as this too is a huge confidence boost and will really help when they go to secondary school, for instance.

4. Avoid labelling your child as ‘shy’ or ‘nervous’ – labels tend to stick and can become self-fulfilling.

5. Allow them to try things their own way and take healthy risks – it’s through challenging ourselves and overcoming obstacles that we grow and develop.

Clubs & Classes

Time for you

Are you gleefully counting down the number of sleeps until the end of term? Does the thought of six whole weeks free from the trials and tribulations of school runs, homework and after-school clubs make you want to skip all the way to the airport? At the end of a busy term, the holidays can feel like a welcome break to the daily routine. So after a few days in, it can come as a bit of surprise when the reality of life during the summer holidays hits home – organising childcare, entertaining the kids 24/7 and fitting in your daily chores with kids in tow can sap the energy of even the most adventurous mum.

Here’s how to make sure that the summer holidays are a break for you as well as the kids…

Make a date with yourself every day Schedule 20 minutes of me-time every day. Whether it’s soaking in the bath, reading your favourite magazine or going for a run around the block, doing something that you love gives you the chance to switch off and feel good about yourself.

Ditch the guilt and relaxBe kind to yourself and remember it’s your holiday too – don’t feel that you have to be the perfect mum constantly focusing

on the needs of your children. Instead, try to find a balance between things that work for you and the rest of the family so that everyone is happy.

Take stock of your lifeTime away from the daily grind is a great opportunity to focus on yourself and work out whether you’ve got the right work/life balance or whether you need to make some changes. Are you thinking of going back to work, but you don’t know how to make it happen? Are you bored in your job? Maybe all you need is a new hobby or passion to make you feel fulfilled. Tune into your inner voice, listen and take notes of any insights you gain.

Try something new The long summer evenings are an ideal time to do something that makes you feel more alive and fulfilled – whether it’s learning the piano, taking up tennis or speaking a new language. Remember, it’s only by trying something new that you can move out of your comfort zone and reap the rewards of greater confidence and happiness.

Let your mind be still Mindfulness seems to be the buzzword of the moment, but what exactly is it? As busy mums who are always on the go, it can be a struggle to relax and pay attention to the present moment. Mindfulness is about becoming more aware of our thoughts and feelings as they happen so we can enjoy the world around us. Just ten minutes of quiet meditation is a great way to improve your mental wellbeing and switch off from the stresses of daily life. Check out this app to help you get started: https://www.headspace.com.

Switch off your phoneTake a break from your phone or tablet for a little while each day and devote that time to your children, so you can focus on being 100% present. Whether it’s playing hide-and-seek, splashing in the paddling pool or baking a cake together, your kids will love it, as will you. Hopefully you’ll find that having had some undivided attention they’re more likely to be happy to entertain themselves when you need to work, cook or clear up; and you’ll also feel calmer and avoid those all too familiar feelings of guilt.

Fiona Clarke from Inspired Mums shares her top tips on taking a break and recharging your batteries during the summer holidays.

Specializing in sweet carts for children’s birthday parties ..... Making your celebration sweeter

[email protected]

07775 549 773

summer!

Make themost of

Fiona Clark is a qualified confidence and career coach who founded Inspired Mums to inspire women to reach their full potential at work. For further information email [email protected], telephone 07789 597209 or visit www.inspiredmums.co.uk


Family travel

25FAMILIESAdvertising deadline for the September/October Back to School issue, 23 July

p Sleep with the birdsWhy not explore life up high and stay in this beautiful two bedroom treehouse in Somerset, complete with unique octagonal master bedroom and living room. It’s child friendly (they’ve got all the kit) with a safe, enclosed garden, farm animals and a hot tub all on site. Somerset is a lovely location for a family holiday with plenty of attractions for all ages. The Treehouse is a 15 minute drive to Taunton with easy access to the Quantock hills, Exmoor and the Blackdown hills.

Children’s ClassesWe understand swimming

e: [email protected]: 07525 657 987 t: 01923 245 773

.com

Fun lessons in warm pools andsmall classes teaching water

confidence and buoyancy control. Hands on teaching promoting correct

alignment and strokes based on the Alexander Technique (Shaw Method)

All levels - beginners,improvers to advanced

118X70 01.indd 1 09/06/2015 12:27

A staycation can be just as much fun as a holiday abroad. Travel expert Tabitha Symonds has come up with five great properties to whet your appetite.

Quirky places tostay in Britain

Visit www.oneoffplaces.co.uk to discover over 1000 unique holiday properties, glampsites and quirky places to stay around the world – from luxury villas, country houses and boutique B&Bs to yurts, treehouses and shepherd’s huts.

Eco livingGet away from it all and spend some time in a two bedroom eco-house made of straw bales and sheep wool in a peaceful corner of East Yorkshire. Sleeping up to seven, the cottage has all the necessary kit for young children, with lots of paths for walking and cycling right outside. York is only an hour’s drive away, while the attractive market town of Howden is just three miles down the road.

p A little bit of luxuryThis extraordinary church conversion is now a sleek and contemporary five bedroom house. It’s well equipped for children with a pool table, toys and games, etc. It has a beautiful cedar-clad balcony, vaulted ceiling, opaque glass floor and beautiful surroundings. The house occupies an elevated position overlooking the Tweed Valley and the Cheviot hills, in the heart of the Scottish Borders, just an hour from Edinburgh.

Camping American styleEnjoy all the good bits of camping without any of the hassle with a holiday in these stunning Airstream caravans. The individually designed Airstreams on this site give a real taste of vintage Americana. Each Airstream has been lovingly restored by the owners, sleep up to five and the kids will love it as the tree-lined site has a play area, is completely surrounded by farmland and only seven miles from the coast. q

t Perfect for train loversDrift off to sleep to the sound of the waves in this four bedroom converted train carriage, which is right on the seafront in Selsey, Sussex and sleeps eight comfortably. There’s a fenced garden and toys and board games are also provided. Selsey is the most southerly point of West Sussex, about six miles south of Chichester – when you’re bored of beach life, there’s lots to keep everyone busy from fishing, diving, golfing, cycling and boat tripping to visiting the lifeboat station or the nearby Pagham Nature Reserve.

2626

What inspired you to set up your businesses?‘I previously worked in publishing and as a theatre performer, but soon realised that Pilates was my passion. I decided to launch Pilates Pointe when my daughter was 12 months, and I’ve never looked back. It’s been extremely rewarding teaching people with injuries, or chronic pain, and seeing them them progress to an increasingly pain-free and functional life.

‘Trapdoor Performing Arts School was launched nine years ago and has grown each year – we now have 120 children having fun with us every Saturday. Our exam results are outstanding and that’s down to the fact that our students are allowed to grow and develop without pressure.

‘My latest challenge has been setting up Pilates Teacher Training. Two years ago I realised how lucky I was to have a career that allowed me to work flexibly and close to home. I wanted to share my success with others and inspire them turn their Pilates hobby into a career. I only train eight people at a time as I mentor and support them all the way as they learn how to become qualified teachers of mat-based Pilates. I’m very proud of its success so far.’

Supermum Andrea Domin from Chalfont St Giles is the owner of two thriving local businesses – Trapdoor Performing Arts School and Pilates Pointe. We caught up with her to find out how she turned her passions into a career.

Mums who mean business

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Wills, Trusts and LPAs.Contact: Sally Bakkes T:01494 713 947.E: [email protected]. www.christie-munro.co.ukRegistered in England No 6702879. This firm is Compliant with the IPW Code of Practice.

What inspired you to set up the business?‘As a mother and amateur cook, I couldn’t wait to embark on my kitchen renovation. However the sink area seemed to antagonise the modern and sleek look that I was trying hard to create. Despite a lot of research I couldn’t find a sink tidy that even slightly complemented a stylish and contemporary kitchen. It was at this point that I began to sketch out what was soon to become the PAVARA sink tidy. Two years and two prototypes later, I am excited to be launching my product.’

What did you used to do?‘I graduated from Kings College London University with a Pharmacy degree 17 years ago and have worked as a Community Pharmacist ever since. My career highlight was being selected to be part of the medical team caring for athletes at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.’

What are your future plans?‘I would like to expand the product range into various colours. My product is available to pre-order online and the next step is to see it in kitchenware retailers.’

What’s your best tip for working mums?‘Try to compartmentalise your time, so that your time with your children is only for them.’

To find out more, and to to pre-order, please go to www.pavara.co.uk

What do you like most about working for yourself?‘No week is the same and I have a purpose every day. I enjoy teaching my wonderful, loyal clients and seeing them progress each week. My weekends are spent visiting the pupils at Trapdoor and training some amazing people who are turning their passion for Pilates into a career that fits around them.’

What’s your best tip for people wanting to set up their own business?‘Embrace rather than regret every job you’ve had in the past – there will be always be something positive to gain from each work experience. Choose a job that involves doing what you love and ask yourself, “What sets your soul on fire?” By choosing a job you love, you’ll never feel like you’re working a day in your life.’

If you’re interested in exploring a new career as a Pilates teacher, call Andrea on 01494 876487 or visit www.pilatespointe.com.

When Gerrards Cross mum Sunita Gill couldn’t find a sleek storage solution for her washing-up utensils she decided to design her own. Here she tells us how.

FAMILIES July/August 2015

27

What’s on

FAMILIESEntries in What’s On are free – send your details to: [email protected].

JulyWednesday 1st

MYTHS & MONSTERS EXHIBITIONTring Natural History Museum. Akeman Street. 10am–5pm, drop in, free.www.nhm.ac.uk/tring.SUMMER AT MEAD OPEN FARMMead Open Farm, Billington.10am–6.30pm, adult £11.25, child £10.25.www.meadopenfarm.co.uk.SUPERWORM TRAILWendover Woods, Aylesbury.3–8rs, drop in, £3.50. www.forestry.gov.uk/superworm.

Friday 3rd

A TASTE OF SUMMERBeverley Glock Cookery School, Princes Risborough.10am–2pm, £60.www.beverleyglock.com.

Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th

TOTALLY BATTY WALKS Ashridge Estate, Berkhamsted. 8.30pm–10pm, adult £8, child £5.www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge.

Saturday 4th

A MIDSUMMERS NIGHT’S DREAM Claydon House, nr Buckingham. 7.30pm–10.30pm, booking required, adult £14, child £10.www.nationaltrust.org.uk.CHILTERN CYCLING FESTIVAL Penn House, Amersham.12.30pm, all ages, booking required, £4.www.chilterncyclingfestival.com.ENORMOUS TEETH TRAILRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am–5pm, all ages, drop in, free with admission.www.roalddahl.com/museum.MEDIEVAL LIFE Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.10am–5pm, adults £9.50, child £6. www.coam.org.ukROALD DAHL FESTIVALAylesbury Town Centre. 11am– 3pm, all ages, free. www.aylesburyvale.gove.uk/dahl.

Saturday 4th to Sunday 5th

DARTING DRAGONFLIESStowe Landscape Gardens, Buckingham.10am–6pm, drop in, free with admission. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stowe.

Sunday 5th

STEAMING DAYBuckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton. 10.30am–5.30pm, all ages, adult £11, child, £8.www.bucksrailcentre.org.TWITEO & TWITIET Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am–5pm, 7–12yrs, drop in, £12.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Tuesday 7th

CHIDDLERS HOURRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.10am–11am, 0–3yrs, booking required, £3.www.roalddahl.com/museum.TODDLER TUESDAYStowe Landscape Gardens, Buckingham.10.30am–noon, free with admission.www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stowe.

Friday 10th

FAMILY CAMPING Cliveden, Maidenhead.4pm–11.30am, booking required, adult £25, child £15.www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Saturday 11th

BIOBLITZ–FAMILY DAYAmersham Field Centre, Mop End. 10am–4pm, all ages, drop in, free. www.field–studies–council.org/amersham.ENORMOUS TEETH TRAIL Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.As Saturday 4th July. www.roalddahl.com/museum.FAIRY TALES Elgiva Theatre, Chesham. 2pm & 7.30pm, booking required. www.elgiva.com.FAMILY OPEN DAY The Clare Charity Centre, Saunderton.10am–2pm, free.www.theclarefoundation.org.FULMER DAY VILLAGE FETE Windmill Road, Fulmer.2pm–5.30pm, free. www.fulmervillage.org.THE HILLS ARE ALIVE Ashridge Estate, Berkhamsted. 10am–noon, booking required, adult £8, child £5.www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge.SUMMER FETE Little Missenden School, Little Misseden.Noon–2.30pm, all ages, free.www.littlemissendenschool.co.uk.


CHILTERN ARTS FEST Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.10am–5pm, booking required, adults £9.50, child £6.www.coam.org.uk.

Tuesday 14th and Thursday 16th

NATURE TOTSCollege Lake Nature Reserve, Tring. 10am–11.30am, booking required, £4. www.bbowt.org.uk.


THE BIG CAMP Ashridge Estate, Berkhamsted. 2pm–4pm, booking required, £5.www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge.BIG CAMPING WEEKEND Stowe Landscape Gardens, Buckingham.2pm–1am, booking required, adult £37.50, child £12.50. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stowe.SUNSHINE TRAIL Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am–5pm, all ages, drop in, free with admission.www.roalddahl.com/museum.THE TAMING OF THE SHREWWest Wycombe Park, High Wycombe. 7.30pm, booking required, adult £16, child £12. www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Sunday 19th

BUTTERFLY WALK FOR BEGINNERS College Lake Nature Reserve, Tring.10.30am–12.30pm, booking required, £4.www.bbowt.org.uk.PROGHOPPING PEGLEGSDahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.noon, 1.30 & 3pm, booking required, £2.50.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

EVERYDAY

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EVERYDAY

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What’s on

Open Days

9th March & 20th April

9.30am to 3pm

Book during your visit and save up to £260

Wednesday 22nd

TERRIFIC TWIT PARTY Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.2pm, 4+yrs, booking required, £2.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Thursday 23rd

THE CAT IN THE HATWycombe Swan, High Wycombe.1pm & 3pm, 3+yrs, booking required, adults £13, child £9. www.wycombeswan.co.uk.FLUTTERY BUTTERFLIESStowe Landscape Gardens, Buckingham.10am–6pm, drop in, free with admission. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stowe.MEET VAL RUTT Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.1.30pm & 3pm, 6+yrs, booking required, £3.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Thursday 23rd to Friday 31st

SWASHBUCKLING PIRATE SHOWSOdds Farm Park, Wooburn. 4 daily shows, 10am–5.30pm, free with admission.www.oddsfarm.co.uk.TWITCHTICKLING ESIO TROTS Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.10.30am & noon, 5+yrs, booking required, £1.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Friday 24th

ALPACA FUNAbbotts View Farm, nr Aylesbury.10.30am–noon, booking required, adult £12, child £8.www.chilternsociety.org.uk.DR LONGITUDES MARVELLOUS IMAGINARY MENAGERIE Stowe Landscape Gardens, Buckingham.12.30pm & 3pm, family theatre, booking required, free with admission.www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stowe.FAMILY CAMPING Stowe Landscape Gardens, Buckingham.5pm–10am, booking required, adult £25, child £5.www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stowe.

I’M A CROCOLEBRITY, GET ME OUT OF HERE! Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am, 1pm & 3pm, 7+yrs, booking required, £3.www.roalddahl.com/museum.THE CAT IN THE HAT Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe.As Thursday 23rd July.www.wycombeswan.co.uk.

Saturday 25th

CLAYDON EXPLORERS: SUMMER TRAIL Claydon House, nr Buckingham.11am–4pm, every day except Thursday, all ages, drop in, £1. www.nationaltrust.org.uk.CREATURES OF THE NIGHT Ashridge Estate, Berkhamsted. 8.30–11.45pm, booking required, adult £10, child £6.www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge.JUNIOR DISCORevolutions, Beaconsfield. 2pm–5pm, 6–12yrs, booking required, £7.www.juniordisco.co.uk.THE CAT IN THE HAT Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe.As Thursday 23rd July. www.wycombeswan.co.uk.TIP–TOPPLING TWIT HEADS Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.noon, 1.30 & 3pm, 5–11 yrs, booking required, £2.50.www.roalddahl.com/museum.NATURE DETECTIVES Bucks County Museum & Roald Dahl Children’s Library, Aylesbury. 10am–noon or 1pm–3pm, drop in, £3.www.buckscc.gov.uk/museum.TWELFTH NIGHT Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury.7.30pm, all ages, booking required, £18.50, child £10.www.nationaltrust.org.uk.WILDLIFE ON THE MOVEChinnor and Princes Risborough Railway, Oxon, 10.30am, noon, 1.30 &3pm, drop in, adult £11, child £6.www.chinnorrailway.co.uk.


MEDIEVAL WARFARE Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.10am–5pm, ages 5–11, adult £9.50, child £6. www.coam.org.uk.

Sunday 26th

COLNE VALLEY FESTIVALColne Valley Park, Denham. 11am–4pm, drop in, free.www.colnevalleypark.org.uk.LEYFEST 15Ley Hill School, Chesham.12pm–8pm, booking required, adult £15, child £5. www.leyfest.com.ROLY–POLY POTSRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.noon, 1.30 & 3pm, 5+yrs, booking required, £3.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Tuesday 28th

CHARLIE’S PIGGY BANK PUPPETS Bucks County Museum & Roald Dahl Children’s Library, Aylesbury. 10am–noon& 1pm–3pm, all ages, drop in every Tues,Wed, Thurs, £3. www.buckscc.gov.uk/museum.CROC ROCKETS!Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.10.30am, noon, 2pm & 3.30pm, 6+yrs, booking required, £2. www.roalddahl.com/museum.FLOWER FAIRY SUMMER BOWERQueens Park Arts Centre, Aylesbury. 10am–3pm, 7+yrs (5+with adult), booking required, £20. www.qpc.org.ICE CREAM & SUMMER BAKING Beverley Glock Cookery School, Princes Risborough.10am–1pm, 5–12yrs, booking required, £37.50.www.beverleyglock.com.

Wednesday 29th

CROC JUNGLE PUPPETSBucks County Museum & Roald DahlChildren’s Library, Aylesbury. 10am–Noon& 1pm–3pm, all ages, drop in every Tues,Wed, Thurs, £3. www.buckscc.gov.uk/museum.REPTILE SHOWRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.noon, 2pm, 6+yrs, booking required, £5.www.roalddahl.com/museum.STEAMING DAYBuckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.10.30am–5.30pm, all ages, adult £11, child £8.www.bucksrailcentre.org.WILD WEDNESDAYAshridge Estate, Berkhamsted. 12.30pm & 2pm, drop–in, £1.www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge.

Thursday 30th

CROC POTSRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.10.30am, noon, 2pm & 3.30pm, 5+yrs, booking required, £3. www.roalddahl.com/museum.TWITS DISGUSTEROUS MUGSBucks County Museum & Roald DahlChildren’s Library, Aylesbury. 10am–noon& 1pm–3pm, all ages, drop in every Tues,Wed, Thurs, £3. www.buckscc.gov.uk/museum.

Friday 31st

RASTAMOUSE!Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.noon & 2pm, 3+yrs, booking required, £3.www.roalddahl.com/museum.RIVER DIPPINGColne Valley Park, Denham.2.30pm–4pm, booking required, £5.www.colnevalleypark.org.uk.SUMMER COMMUNITY DAY Amersham Field Centre, Mop End.10am–3pm, drop in, free. www.field–studies–council.org/amersham.

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DAILY- SEPT

What’s on

29FAMILIESThere’s so much going on, we can’t fit it all! Visit www.familieschiltern.co.uk/what’s-on for lots more.

Roald Dahl children’s galleryfor hands-on fun & Roald Dahl magic Discover fun-packed act iv i t ies, exhibi t ions, café, garden and loads more for fami l ies at Bucks County Museum in Aylesbury

Bucks County MuseumAylesbury HP20 2QP

01296 331441

buckscountymuseum.org

‘Get yourself a good night’s sleep’Does your baby need feeding at night?

Has your child got sleep problems?Do you need help with breast-feeding?

Or are you just longing for a lie-in?

Tel: 07947 885887, www.night-nannies.com

AugustSaturday 1st

DOWN ON THE FARMHome Farm, High Wycombe. 2.30pm–5pm, booking required, adult £7, child £5.www.chilternsociety.org.uk.PADDLEBOARDINGStowe Landscape Gardens, Buckingham.9am–4pm, every Wed, Sat, Sun.8+yrs, booking required, £27.50.www.nationaltrust.org.uk/stowe.RIFLES & REVOLUTIONChiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.10am–5pm, adult £9.50, child £6. www.coam.org.uk.TENNIS 4 KIDSPipers Corner School, High Wycombe. 8.45am–1pm, drop in, free. www.tennis4kids.co.uk.

Saturday 1st to Sunday 2nd

FAMILY ROLLER DISCOOld Town Hall, High Wycombe.2pm– 3.30pm, all ages, booking required, £6.www.wycombeswan.co.uk.THE TALES OF PETER RABBIT & BENJAMIN BUNNY Elgiva Theatre, Chesham.2.30pm, booking required, adult £12, child £7.www.elgiva.com.

Saturday 1st to Friday 7th

CIRCUS SPECTACULAROdds Farm Park, Wooburn. 4 daily shows, 10am–5.30pm, free with admission. www.oddsfarm.co.uk.

Sunday 2nd

PONGO’S PARTYOld Town Hall, High Wycombe. 2.30pm, 3–7yrs, booking required, adult £12, child £11.www.wycombeswan.co.uk.STEAMING DAYBuckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.As Sunday 2nd August. www.bucksrailcentre.org.UCKYMUCKY DINNER MATSRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre,Great Missenden. noon, 1.30 & 3pm,5+yrs, booking required, £2.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Monday 3rd

50 THINGS ACTIVITY DAYClaydon House, nr Buckingham.11am–4pm, all ages, drop in. £2. www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Tuesday 4th

SCRUMPTIOUS PICNIC FOODBeverley Glock Cookery School, Princes Risborough.10am–1pm, 5–12yrs, booking required, £37.50.www.beverleyglock.com.TERRIFIC TUESDAYSChiltern Open Air Museum,Chalfont St Giles. 11am–4pm, drop in,free with admission.www.coam.org.uk.TERRIFIC TWIT PARTYRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre,Great Missenden. 10.30am, noon,2pm & 3pm, 4+yrs, booking required, £2.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Wednesday 5th

INTO THE WILD Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.1pm & 3pm, 7+yrs, booking required, £3.www.roalddahl.com/museum.STEAMING DAYBuckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.As Sunday 2nd August. www.bucksrailcentre.org.TEDDY BEAR’S PICNICBottom Wood, High Wycombe. Noon –2pm, 5+yrs, booking required, child £5. www.chilternsociety.org.uk.

Thursday 6th

TWISTY TWITSRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre,Great Missenden. 11am, 12.30pm,2pm & 3pm, 6+yrs, booking required, £2.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Friday 7th

MATILDA MUSICAL MAGICRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 6+yrs, booking required, £4.www.roalddahl.com/museum.TREASURE ISLANDWaddesdon Manor, Aylesbury. Theatre, 6pm–10pm, all ages, adult £14, child £10. www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Saturday 8th

BEASTS OF THE NIGHTBrush Hill, Princes Risborough. 9pm–10.30pm, 7+yrs, booking required, adult free, child £5.www.chilternsociety.org.uk.BILIOUS TWIT BEARDSRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.12pm, 1.30pm, 3pm, 5+yrs, booking required, £2.www.roalddahl.com/museum.PONGO’S PARTY–CHILDREN’S THEATRE Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. 11am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm, 3–7yrs, £10. www.nationaltrust.org.uk.THE TALES OF BEATRIX POTTER Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury. 6pm–10pm, all ages, booking required, adult £14, child £10.www.nationaltrust.org.uk.VICIOUS VIKINGS Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.10am–5pm, adult £9.50, child £6. www.coam.org.uk.

Saturday 8th to Friday 14th

SWASHBUCKLING PIRATE SHOWSOdds Farm Park, Wooburn Common.As Thursday 23rd July. www.oddsfarm.co.uk.

Sunday 9th

WHIZZPOPPING POETRYRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.Noon & 2pm, 4+yrs, booking required, £3.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

NEXT 3TUES

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NEXT 4WEEKS

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NEXT 3 SUNS

What’s on


Through The WardrobeChildren’s Theatre Company

www.through-the-wardrobe.com

Come for a FREE trial!

[email protected]

Ages 6-16yrs

Drama Classes Performances

LAMDA Exams Holiday Workshops

01753 892009

Tuesday 11th

CROC ROCKETS!Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.10.30am, noon, 2pm & 3.30pm, 6+yrs, booking required, £2. www.roalddahl.com/museum.TERRIFIC TUESDAYS Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.As Tuesday 4th August.www.coam.org.uk.

Wednesday 12th

BLOWN AWAY WITH ROB BIDDULPHRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am, 1pm, 2.30pm, 3+yrs, booking required, £3.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Thursday 13th

MEET JOSH LACEYRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.1.30pm, 3pm, 7+yrs, booking required, £3.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Friday 14th

AWESOME AFRICAN DRUMSRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am, 1pm, 3pm, 6+yrs, booking required, £3.50.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Saturday 15th

TUDOR FARMINGChiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.10am–5pm, adult £9.50, child £6.www.coam.org.uk.


THE WILDLIFE TRUSTRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am–3pm, all ages, free.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Saturday 15th to Friday 21st

CIRCUS SPECTACULAROdds Farm Park, Wooburn. As Saturday 1st August.www.oddsfarm.co.uk.

Sunday 16th

SPRING STEAM & DIESEL GALAChinnor and Princes Risborough Railway, Oxon.11am–4.30pm, adult £11, child £6. www.chinnorrailway.co.uk.EUROPEAN BAKING DAYBeverley Glock Cookery School, Princes Risborough.10am–3.30pm, 8–15yrs, booking required, £65.www.beverleyglock.com.

Tuesday 18th

GRUNCIOUS TWIT GARDENSRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am, 1pm, 3pm. 6+yrs, booking required, £2.50.www.roalddahl.com/museum.TERRIFIC TUESDAYS Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.As Tuesday 4th August. www.coam.org.uk.

Thursday 20th

MISCHIEVOUS MONOPRINTS Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am, 1pm, 3pm, 8+yrs, booking required, £2.50.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Friday 21st

DISGUSTEROUS DINNER PLATESRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am, 1pm, 3pm, 6+yrs, booking required, £3.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Saturday 22nd

CHILDREN EATING BUGSRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.noon, 1.30pm, 3pm, 5+yrs, booking required, £3.www.roalddahl.com/museum.MEET THE VICTORIANSChiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.10am–5pm, drop in, adult £9.50, child £6.www.coam.org.uk.TWELTH NIGHTWest Wycombe Park, West Wycombe.7.30pm, booking required, adult £16, child £12.www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Saturday 22nd to Friday 28th

SWASHBUCKLING PIRATE SHOWSOdds Farm Park, Wooburn Common.As Thursday 23rd July.www.oddsfarm.co.uk.

Sunday 23rd

MARVELLOUS TORTOISE MAGNETSRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.noon, 1.30pm, 3pm, 5+yrs, booking required, £2.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Tuesday 25th

CROC ROCKETS! Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3.30pm, 6+yrs, booking required, £2.www.roalddahl.com/museum.ITALIAN DAY Beverley Glock Cookery School, Princes Risborough.10am–3.30pm, 8–15yrs, booking required, £65.www.beverleyglock.com.JUNGLE JARSRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3.30pm, 5+yrs, booking required, £2.50.www.roalddahl.com/museum.TERRIFIC TUESDAYS Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.As Tuesday 4th August. www.coam.org.uk.

Wednesday 26th

WILDLIFE TREASURE HUNTWhiteleaf Hill, Princes Risborough.10am–noon, booking required, adult free, child £3. www.chilternsociety.org.uk.

Thursday 27th

CROCAJUNGLE GARDENSRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am, 1pm, 3pm, 6+yrs, booking required, £2.50.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Thursday 27th to Friday 28th

THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICECliveden, Taplow.2.30pm–4pm, booking required, adult £14, child £10.www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Tuesday 28th to Friday 31st

CHILTERNS CRAFT & DESIGN SHOWStonor Park, Henley-on-Thames10am–5pm, booking required, adults £8, kids free.www.thecraftshows.co.uk.

Friday 28th

PHIZZ–WHIZZING PHOTO FRAMESRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5+yrs, booking required, £3.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Saturday 29th

JUNIOR DISCO Revolutions, Beaconsfield.2pm–5pm, 6–12yrs, booking required, £7.www.juniordisco.co.uk.PARKLIFEVale Park, Aylesbury. Noon–8.30pm, all ages, free. www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk.PRIDE & PREJUDICEWaddesdon Manor, Aylesbury.6pm–10pm, all ages, booking required, adult £14, child £10. www.nationaltrust.org.uk.THE THREE MUSKETEERSCliveden, Taplow.6pm, booking required, adult £16.50, child £10.www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Saturday 29th to Wednesday 2nd

CIRCUS SPECTACULAROdds Farm Park, Wooburn. As Saturday 1st August.www.oddsfarm.co.uk

Sunday 30th

MAGNA CARTAChiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.10am–5pm, adult £9.50, child £6. www.coam.org.uk.ROVER CAR RALLYBuckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.10.30am–5.30pm, all ages, booking required, adult £12, child £9. www.bucksrailcentre.org.TEDDY BEAR DAYSChinnor and Princes Risborough Railway, Oxon. Adult £11, kids with bears free. www.chinnorrailway.co.uk.

Sunday 30th to Monday 31st

MUGGLEWUMP MOBILESRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.Noon, 1.30pm, 3pm, 5+yrs, booking required, £2.50.www.roalddahl.com/museum.

Monday 31st

DAHLIA FESTIVAL Chenies Manor House, Chenies.2pm–5pm, all ages, drop in, adult £7, child £4.www.cheniesmanorhouse.co.uk.MAKE & TAKE DRAGONFLIESBoarstall Duck Decoy, nr Bicester.11am–5pm, drop in. www.nationaltrust.org.uk.PRE–78 VEHICLE RALLY Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.10.30am–5.30pm, all ages, adult £12, child, £9.www.bucksrailcentre.org.PROGHOPPING PENCIL CASESRoald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, Great Missenden.11am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3.30pm, 5+yrs, booking required, £3. www.roalddahl.com/museum.

31

This gorgeous tart is perfect for picnics and summer parties.With thanks to Beverley Glock Cookery School.

A taste of summerYou will need... Weighing scales, large mixing bowl, rolling pin, grater or zester, pastry brush, teaspoon, tart tin approx. 30cm, baking tray, an adult, wooden spoon, measuring jug

How to make Pear and Frangipane Tart...WASH YOUR HANDS

1. Ask an adult to preheat the oven to 180oc/Gas 4/AGA Baking oven or roasting oven with plain cold shelf above.

2. Make the pastry: rub the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like breadcrumbs.

3. Add the sugar, egg and water a little at a time and use the knife to ‘cut’ and stir into the dry mixture, keep adding until it forms a stiff dough. Cover with cling film and pop it into the fridge for 30 minutes.

4. If you’re using fresh pears peel them, slice them into quarters and remove the core. Place the cinnamon stick, vanilla, lemon juice, sugar and water into a saucepan and ask an adult to bring this to the boil, reduce to a simmer and add the pears, pushing them under the surface to poach for 5-10 minutes until just soft enough for knife to pierce the flesh with just a little resistance, you don’t want them so soft that they break up.

5. Ask an adult to drain the pears and set to one side to cool. If you’re using tinned pears omit stages 4 and 5.

6. Make the frangipane: cream the butter and sugar with a wooden spoon or in a mixer until it’s light, fluffy and drops off the end of a spoon easily. Mix in the eggs, ground almonds and lemon zest.

7. Grease a tart tin, break off pieces of pastry and press these into the tin to line it. You could roll the pastry out but this adds to

stress and you have to be careful not to add too much flour, it’s up to you. Just make sure that you cover the base and sides of the tin and tear off any left over pastry on the edges and that the pastry is even and not too thick. Pour over baking beans and bake blind for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and leave to cool for 30 minutes. If you have an AGA omit the baking blind stage.

8. Spoon the frangipane over the pastry; spread the mixture almost to the edge, leaving a gap of around 2cm.

9. Arrange the pears on top, either place one whole half (tinned pears) cut side down, or slice the pears. Whichever you opt for make sure when you place them on the frangipane that they are arranged in a pretty pattern.

10. Ask an adult to place the tart tin on a baking tray and bake for around 20-25 minutes until the frangipane is golden brown. Ask an adult to remove the tray from the oven and move to a wire rack to cool. Brush the pears and frangipane with a little warm apricot jam to glaze them. Serve warm or cold with ice cream, cream or custard.

Get cooking!

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CLASSIFIEDS

If you have an AGA don’t bother baking the pastry blind just put

it straight in on the floor of the roasting oven. If not bake it blind.

If you’re short of time use tinned pears and ready made sweet

shortcrust pastry. NB this recipe is not suitable for people with

nut allergies

Ingredients for 1 large tart:

Pastry: 225g plain flour

125g butter, cold and cubed

125g sugar

1 egg Approx 15ml Cold Water to mix

Pears: 4 ripe pears

5cm stick cinnamon (approx)

1⁄2 vanilla pod or 1⁄2 tsp vanilla paste

Juice of 1 lemon

250g caster sugar

500ml water

or 400g tin of pears

Frangipane: 100g soft butter

100g caster sugar

2 large or 3 medium eggs

100g ground almonds

zest of 1 lemon

Glaze: A little smooth apricot jam

FAMILIESAdvertising deadline for the September/October Back to School issue, 23 July

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Issue 74 : (F) 180 x 130mm

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Families Chiltern issue 74 July-August 2015