Clubs & Classes

the essential guide

Independent schools what’s on offer?

Left-hand learnersmake life easier

FREEIssue 10

September/October 2012www.familiespennines.co.uk

The really useful magazine for parents in the boroughs ofCalderdale, Kirklees, Oldham, Tameside and Littleborough

P e n n i n e s

2 www.familiespennines.co.uk tel: 07580 612800

Luca & Maya make ice mobiles

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines 3

Visit www.familiespennines.co.uk to winCOMPETITION

Pennines

Congratulations to the winner of our May-June competition:

Christina from Netherton

To enter, visit www.familiespennines.co.uk/competitions Terms & conditions apply.Closing date for the competition is Wednesday 31 October 2012

The cool tool that helps kids pack their bag for school

Families Pennines has 3 sets for you to win.

Win a

Little Big Club

Welcome to Families Pennines C O N T E N T S

Well, this is it…Families Pennines has made it into double figures with issue 10 and it’s time for me to say goodbye. But don’t worry! There’s a new editor – Rachel Bentley from Brighouse – and I’m sure she’s going to make Families Pennines even better.

It’s been a real privilege to create Families Pennines and see it grow from 12,000 to 16,000 copies in such a short time because you like reading it.

And a special thank you to everyone who’s advertised in the magazine – because without you, there wouldn’t be a Families Pennines.

Wishing you and your family a happy and prosperous future.

Contact us editor@familiespennines.co.uk Tel: 07580 612800 w w w.famil iespennines.co.ukNext issue: November/December Families Pennines is free to our readers thanks to our advertisers.Design by Russell Finneran 01457 873300 w w w.stonehousecreativeser vices.co.ukPrinted by Warners Midlands PLC Tel: 01778 391035 w w w.warners.co.uk Front cover: F&F at Tesco

Copyright Families Pennines September/October 2012

Families Pennines is one of a group of magazines established in 1990. It is a Families Franchise independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care preparing this magazine, but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequences. Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner’s own risk and, while every care is taken, neither Families not its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

Pages 4 & 5

News – what’s happening near you

Page 6

Left-hand learning – how to help

Page 14 & 15

What’s On – September & October

Pages 12 & 13

Clubs & classes – so many choices

Pages 8 - 9

Independent schools – what’s on offer

Page 11

A flying start – do well this term

t:07790 260 562248 Bradford Rd

Liversedge WF15 6EB

OpenMonday-Friday 10.30-5.30

Saturday 9.30-5.30Sunday 11-4

Stunt scooters, parts & accessories

4 www.familiespennines.co.uk tel: 07580 612800

NewsWhat's happening near youWhat's happening near you

Brighouse mum takes over the PenninesThere’s a change at the top of Families Pennines. Rachel Bentley, Brighouse born and bred, is taking over as the magazine’s editor.

She has two young boys, so knows what it’s like to juggle family and work life.

She worked for Aviva in Marketing & Sales in Yorkshire and London before deciding to set up her own business as an Independent Phoenix Trader. She now manages a team of almost 80 members worldwide.

She’s been a Families devotee for years

Do you have a story to share with our readers?

Email the details to editor@familiespennines.co.uk or ring 07580 612800

and is delighted to be the new owner and editor of Families Pennines, running the magazine alongside her family and existing business. She says, “I’m really looking forward to getting to know Families Pennines readers and advertisers over the coming months.”

The November-December issue will be her first in charge, so if you have some news to share, or want to tell her what you’d like to see in future issues, then email her on editor@familiespennines.co.uk ring 07580 612800.

After 50 years as a Governor for the Hipperholme Grammar School Foundation, Charles Fenton is to retire – but his constant support for the School remains in the form of The Fenton Scholarship.

The Fenton Scholarship is a new 100% funded place at Hipperholme Grammar Senior School that will be available to the person achieving the highest mark in the School’s entrance examination.

The examination takes place on 13 October 2012 for entry to the Senior School in September 2013.

Further scholarships are also available for academic, musical and sporting prowess. For more information or to arrange a v is i t, p lease contac t the Admiss ions O ff icer on 01422 202256 or see w w w.hgsf.org.uk

Heathfield, the Junior School to Rishworth School, is in royal company as it celebrates its 60th birthday this September.

The Junior School was founded in 1952, the Senior School’s origins dating back a little further to 1724.

Heathfield will be opening its doors to visitors on Saturday 29 September so you can explore the new arts trail in the dingle which includes a dragon created by Year 5 and renowned ‘junk metal’ artist, Matthew Roby. There will also be music, a book signing by Heathfield author Christine Taylor and a late summer fair.

For more information, p lease contac t G i l l B att ye on 01422 823564 or admin@heathf ie ldjunior.co.uk

100% scholarship for HGSF

Heathfield’s Diamond Jubilee Heathfield

The Junior School to Rishworth School

1952 - 2012

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines 5

Cool tool helps pack for schoolIt can be hard for children AND their parents to remember what they need to take to school each day. TomTag from Orkid Ideas is a brand new product that makes things so much easier.

TomTag is a colourful daily checklist that’s practical and fun to use. It clips to a child’s school bag so they always know what to take to school and what to bring home again. TomTag uses fun pictures, not words, so children of all ages and abilities will find it easy to take responsibility for their own things.

Orkid Ideas was launched this year by two mums, Clare Cusack from Saddleworth and Deborah Watson from York, to introduce the world to TomTag.

The inspiration for TomTag came when Clare was studying with Dyslexia Action

and she designed a visual planner for a student to help their organisational skills. It was a big hit so Clare went on to make them for her own children and friends.

‘When other parents at school started saying “That looks great - where can I get one?” I saw the potential to turn the idea into a product that could help all children and TomTag was born,’ explains Clare. ‘My experiences of making visual learning aids to help my son Tomas, who has autism, came in very handy during the process of turning this simple concept into a real product and also explains how TomTag got its name!’

Famil ies Pennines has 3 sets of TomTags for you to win. To enter v is i t w w w.famil iespennines.co.uk/competit ions

CLIC Sargent, the cancer charity for children and young people, is encouraging you to have a hair-raising time and raise funds for those who lose their hair through cancer treatment.

The Big Buzz campaign asks you to be sponsored for having your hair shaved or hold a fun ‘hair-raising’ event.

To f ind out more and get the suppor t you need to make your event a success, r ing 08451 212492 or v is i t w w w.cl icsargent.org.uk/thebigbuzz

Littleborough mum Neela Jackson is celebrating after her Creation Station class for pre-school children was voted the best in Rochdale & Bury and in the top 3 classes in Oldham & Tameside.

The Creation Station Little Explorers class won the top prize in the national awards from Netmums.com. Mums praised the class for being friendly and the highlight of their children’s week.

Delighted Neela said: “I’m absolutely thrilled our class has been crowned the best in Rochdale & Bury and a very close runner up in Oldham & Tameside. The Netmums award means so much as it’s voted for by parents. I love running the class and it’s fantastic to know the parents and children enjoy it as much as I do.”

You can f ind out more about what Neela has to of fer in our Clubs & Classes feature on pages 12&13.

Be a life ‘shaver’ Creation Station winner

When children and young people get cancer, many lose their hair. You can show your support for them by joining The Big Buzz and getting creative with your hair to raise money for CLIC Sargent.

Make aBig Buzz

Get creative with your hair to raise money for CLIC Sargent

6 www.familiespennines.co.uk tel: 07580 612800

MESSY HANDWRITINGIf you have a child who is left

handed, chances are they haven’t

been taught to write. Most are

simply allowed to use their left hand.

As the right handed parent of a left

handed child I admit to having that

same attitude. I now know that I was

completely wrong.

Left handers push the pen across

the page, whereas their right handed friends will

pull. This can lead to smudging and untidy work

which in turn leads to anxiety on the part of

the child.

At an early stage a left handed child should be

encouraged to master the correct handwriting

position and paper placement to avoid problems

as the writing assignments increase. The paper

should be rotated to 45 degrees with the hand

and wrist below the writing. Any pen needs to

be held in a strong 3 point grip. In Early Years this

can be supported with a triangular bodied pencil

or a moulded grip around a regular pencil. If your

child can get into good habits from the start of

their school life, they will avoid problems when

they graduate to a fountain pen and longer

writing assignments.

HOOK GRIP Some left handers use a

hooked grip to avoid the

problem of smudging,

and angle the pen in the

same way a right hander

would. This causes more

problems than it solves.

The hook grip becomes

more uncomfortable

the more you write. It leads to an overtight grip

and aching hands which in turn lead to messy

handwriting. The wrist should always be below

the writing line. If your child is developing a hook

Let’s hear it for the lefties!One in ten children are left handed, but many fail to get the support they need in the early years of their education. Experts say teachers aren’t given proper training & schools don’t have the right resources. Sarah Butters, mum to a left handed daughter, takes a look at some of the most common problems faced by left handers & some tips for helping them out.

grip, consider introducing

a sloped surface to resolve

the problem.

ELBOW COLLISION “I always end up banging

elbows” explains my 9 year

old daughter. “That makes

my writing messy.”

Your child should always be placed at the left

hand side of a shared desk or next to another

left hander. This gives them plenty of space to

get their paper positioned correctly and avoid

knocking elbows with a right handed neighbour.

WHITE BOARDSThey’re a teacher’s best friend but a left hander’s

worst nightmare. Pupils can get rid of mistakes

easily without using endless pieces of paper. But,

if you’re left handed you can end up erasing as

you write. Good grip and placement of the board

gives left handers half a chance.

MIRROR WRITING I remember being hugely concerned when I

discovered that my daughter had completed a

Reception assignment using mirror writing. She

had begun her words on the right hand side of

the page and written

from right to left.

It’s common in left

handed children

and when you think

about it, it makes

sense. If they are

sat next to a right

hander, they are

simply mirroring

their work. Encourage them to start on the left

hand side of the page by placing a coloured star

in the margin as a reminder.

COMPUTERSMost ICT rooms are set up with the computer

mice on the right hand side of the keyboard.

This gives left handed children an automatic

disadvantage because they either need to move

the mouse or attempt or use their right hand.

Don’t presume the teacher knows your child is

left handed. Be sure to let all the staff involved

with your child know they’re a left hander and

will need a different workstation set up.

THE ‘RIGHT’ EQUIPMENTMany left handed children learn the basics with

the wrong equipment. Give a left handed child

some right handed scissors and they’ll find the

blade is upside down and so they can’t see the

line they are cutting. It means the child has less

control and think of themselves as messy. This

can be a real problem in the Early Years. Check

your school has left handed scissors to offer.

Ambidextrous scissors don't exist - trust me!

Avoid shiny barreled pens. Instead choose one

with a good grip so it’s easy to hold even when

hands get hot and tired. Left handed fountain

pens are available at www.anythingleft-handed.co.uk. They’re worth the investment for older children

as they have an angled nib.

LACK OF UNDERSTANDING As a right hander, I never appreciated the

challenges faced by my daughter. Until she

mastered left handed writing, she was labelled

untidy in her written work and lost enthusiasm

for putting pen to paper. It wasn’t until I began

researching this piece that I realised how

much of her attitude is linked to the hand she

writes with. The bad news is she’s had a more

challenging time than her right handed pals.

The good news is she’s in good company. Barack

Obama, Leonardo Da Vinci and Bill Gates are all

lefties. Now that’s not a bad club to be in!

w w w.anythinglef t-handed.co.uk has some great left handed guidance sheets for parents and teachers. It’s also a super source of left handed equipment. w w w.lef thandedchi ldren.org another great website with some top tips for parents looking to support their left handed child.

USEFUL RESOURCES

Explore

Heathfield provides a caring environment and a stimulating education for boys and girls from the ages of 3 to 11. Rishworth, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom HX6 4QF. Tel: +44 (0)1422 822217 Fax: +44 (0)1422 820911E-mail: admissions@rishworth-school.co.ukWebsite: www.rishworth-school.co.uk

Heathfield

HeathfieldThe Junior School to Rishworth School

We would like to invite you to a special celebratory day on Saturday 29th SeptemberTo find out more, contact Mrs BattyeTel: 01422 823564 Fax:01422 820880E-mail: admin@heathfieldjunior.co.uk

1952 - 2012

OPEN Afternoon Monday 15th October1.15pm to 6.00pm

Heathfield Family Pennines ad_Layout 1 18/06/2012 15:20 Page 1

8 www.familiespennines.co.uk tel: 07580 612800

Pennine independent schools

School Age range Contact details Open Days

Bradford Grammar 6-18 www.bgs.bradford.sch.uk 6 October 01274 542492

Farrowdale House 3-11 www.farrowdale.co.uk Ring to visit 01706 844533

Firwood Manor 2¾-11 www.firwoodmanor.org.uk Ring to visit 0161 620 6570

Heathfield/Rishworth 3-18 www.rishworth-school.co.uk 13 & 15 October 01422 822217

Hipperholme 3-18 www.hgsf.org.uk 21 September 01422 202256 & 10 November

Huddersfield Grammar 3-16 www.huddersfield-grammar.co.uk Ring to visit 01484 424549

Oldham Hulme 3-18 www.ohgs.co.uk 12 & 13 October Grammar Schools 0161 624 4497

Rastrick Independent Birth-16 www.rastrickschool.co.uk Ring to visit 01484 400344

Silcoates 2-18 www.silcoatesschool.co.uk 6 October 01924 291614

The Gleddings 3-11 www.thegleddings.co.uk Ring to visit 01422 354605

The Mount 3-11 www.themount.org.uk Ring to visit 01484 426432

Wakefield Grammar 3-18 www.wgsf.org.uk 6 October School Foundation 01924 231600

No sooner do our children embark on the thrills and spills of a new academic year than it’s time for the parents of those yet to start school, or those moving from primary to secondary next year, to investigate the options and put in their applications.

Local authorities will send out the relevant forms and information soon and state schools will promote their open days and evenings in the coming weeks.

For those who want to consider independent schools, there is plenty of choice in the Pennines and the box below sets out their contact details and open day information.

It can be tricky deciding which school is the right one for your child.

But there are key things to do: n visit schools n talk to pupils, parents & teachers n check out drop-off & pick-up times

Ask yourself some questions: n is the playground a happy place? n does the lunch smell good? n will your child fit in there?

Firwood Manor in Chadderton near Oldham

celebrates its 10th birthday this September.

Part of the international Gems Education group,

the preparatory school takes children from the

age of 2¾ to 11 years and is proud that 100% of

Isobel in the Nursery, agrees, “Firwood Manor

has the most committed, loving, nurturing

teachers and support staff…and the children

are confident, happy and caring because of

their school environment.” For Helen, mum of

Daniel in Year 3, “The only improvement would

be to open an 11-16 school as well.”

Firwood Manor is conveniently located just off

the A627M, south of Junction 20 of the M62. I f you want to f ind out more, contac t them on 0161 620 6570 or admin@fms.gemsedu.co.uk

its Year 6 pupils gain their first choice

of secondary school.

With a range of specialist teachers,

residential activity weekends and

overseas tours allied to flexible out of

hours school care, Firwood Manor’s parents are

pleased with the school.

Lisa, mum of Amber in Year 3 explains,”They

build on the child’s individual personality and

not only nurture the child through education,

they genuinely care for them.” Ann, mum to

Firwood Manor

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines 9

Pennine independent schools

Heathfield & Rishworth School

The Hipperholme Grammar School Foundation

Oldham Hulme Grammar Schools

Heathfield, the Junior School to Rishworth,

celebrates its Diamond Jubilee this September

and is throwing its doors open to visitors

who want to join the party on Saturday 29

September as well as holding its Open Day

on Monday 15 October when you can see the

school in action. The Senior School, Rishworth,

has an open evening the same night and

“They nurture the children and provide a solid

base for further education. The school also

encourages healthy competition.”

Pete, dad of Ewan in Year 6, says, “You couldn’t

ask for a more pleasant setting for a school. The

facilities, such as the full-size swimming pool,

are fantastic and you get the sense that the staff

really care about the children. The potential to

study in one place from 3-18 also appealed.”

Heathfield & Rishworth are five minutes north

of Junction 22 of the M62, with a fleet of school

bus services covering the Pennines.

I f you want to f ind out more, contac t them on 01422 822217 or admiss ions@rishwor th-school.co.uk

an open morning on

Saturday 13 October.

With a re-designed

website at

www.rishworth-school.co.uk

it’s easier than ever to find out about the full

range of academic, sporting, musical and extra-

curricular activities that the full school has to

offer – as well as a range of boarding options for

children aged 10+.

Parents at Heathfield & Rishworth praise the

school for a “superb all-round education.” Jo,

mum of Alex in Year 5 and Georgia in Year 2

says small classes and the range of sport

facilities drew her to the school, but she adds,

Hipperholme Grammar Headmaster,

Jack Williams, has the pleasant task of

needing a new trophy cabinet after the Hipp

Hotshots – the School’s highly successful

cheerleading team - returned from the National

Championships this summer with yet

more silverware.

with them which encourages them in their

studies.”

For Charlotte, mum of Tom in Nursery and Evie

in Year 1, Hipperholme Junior School offers, “…a

great community of like-minded people with

the same goals for the children. This creates

a friendly environment with happy children.”

Charlotte was particularly impressed that when

the school decided to change their catering

arrangements, parents were invited to sample

the food, which, she declares, “tastes excellent!”

Hipperholme Grammar is to the east of Halifax

and has school bus services which cover the

Calderdale and Kirklees areas. I f you want to f ind out more, contac t them on 01422 202256 or info@hgsf.org.uk

Hipperholme Grammar

is academically selective

but likes to embrace the

new too – a feature which

helped Janet, mum of

Isaac in Year 8 and Eve in

Year 10, choose the School.

“We wanted a small school with a good sense

of community,” she explains. “We liked the

values of Hipperholme – a strong traditional feel

but also progressive and up-to-date. We were

impressed by how polite and mature the pupils

who showed us round were.”

She was also impressed by the staff. “They know

the pupils very well and have a good rapport

With the ever-popular Professor Brian Cox,

actress Sarah Lancashire, broadcaster John

Stapleton and premiership footballer Nedum

Onuoha as alumni, Oldham Hulme Grammar

Schools reveal the depth and breadth of their

pupils’ capabilities.

For Gillian, mum of Georgina in Year 13, the

“…made the transition from junior school

to secondary seem effortless and prepared

my child with superb skills for his secondary

education.” Julie believes the enthusiasm

and drive of the teaching staff means OHGS

successfully combines academic performance,

social skills and sporting activity. She says, “The

School’s attention to the needs of each child as

an individual person has been first class.”

School bus services bring Oldham Hulme

Grammar Schools’ pupils from the boroughs of

Rochdale, Oldham and Tameside to its location

south of Oldham town centre, close to junction

22 of the M60.

I f you want to f ind out more, contac t them on 0161 624 4497 or admin@ohgs.co.uk

traditional standards

and excellent exam

results were central to

her choice. She feels

Georgina has had, “…

many opportunities,

both in this country and abroad. She’s grown

in confidence. The School has given her a

breadth of knowledge and interest far beyond

our expectations.” Gillian says OHGS is inclusive,

“They help build confident and caring young

people who are prepared for the next stage

of their lives, whether that be work or further

education.”

For Julie, mum of Cameron in Year 7 and twins

Francesca and Georgia in Year 4, the School,

10 tel: 07580 612800www.familiespennines.co.uk

100% of Year 6 pupils gain 1st choice in secondary school applications

Independent School age 23/4 – 11 years

– EVERY DAY IS AN OPEN DAY –

Early years grant funding for 3-5 year olds Affordable fees. Bursaries, discounts and monthly payment

plans available Flexible hours and out of hours school care Specialist teachers in Music, Modern Foreign Languages,

Sport, Speech and Drama Art and Design, ICT, Science and Discovery rooms, library Professional swimming lessons for Reception – Year 6 Indoor and outdoor learning environment Residential activity weekends and overseas tours Daily extra – curricular activity programme Fresh and healthy home style food, prepared daily Parent and Teacher Association ISI Inspectorate 2011 – outstanding pastoral care

To arrange a visit and a tour of the schoolplease contact Mrs Burgess on: 0161 620 6570

or admin@fms.gemsedu.co.uk

Firwood Manor children are encouraged to be enthusiastic, inquisitive, caring, confident and expressive, whether they are in the classroom, on stage, or at their computers. Come and discover all the many outstanding opportunities the school can offer your child to develop their own particular talents.

www.firwoodmanor.org.uk

Headteacher: Mr D Robinson B.Ed (Hons)Firwood Manor Preparatory School, Broadway,Chadderton, Oldham, OL9 0AD

DiscoverFirwood Manor

tel: 0161 624 4497

Something to smile about

With us your child will gain in con�dence and achieve their true potential.

Open Evening 12th October, 5.30pm-8.30pm

Open Day 13th October, 9.30am-12.30pm

www.ohgs.co.uk

Top tips to start the school year

11Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

Structure is key. A child that is mentally prepared, has all the right materials, and is supported

by an organised parent from day one starts confidently. Prepare a timetable for their week, let them know who is picking them up each day, and even tell them what is expected of them in the morning to get ready for school. All they need to focus on each day is learning.

Start as you would like to finish. If you want them to finish the year strongly, then that is how

they need to start. Holidays finish the day before school starts! Don’t hold off - ‘letting them settle in’. Encourage them from day 1 to stick to their schedule and complete all of their work. Meet their teacher early, discuss specific things about your child, and let the teacher know you are supportive - open those communication channels. Help your child with any difficulties early, don’t let them build as the term goes on.

Set homework expectations. Discuss what you expect with homework this year BEFORE they

get any. Once they have their homework and don’t want to do it, you have a battle on your hands. Do they need to show you their work every couple of days? Where will they do their homework? What happens with their phones, TVs, and games during homework time? If you set these expectations now and write them down, you'll have something to refer to when the going gets tough. Most importantly, be there for them when they need help with homework. You are their greatest role model and your interest in their school work reinforces the importance of education to them.

Praise effort. Praise your child for the effort that he or she puts into a project. This develops the

idea that success is linked to effort, rather than results alone.

Have high expectations. The fact that you believe in your child will give them the confidence to

believe in themselves.

Help your school. Look for specific ways that you can support your child's school.

Maybe you have time to volunteer a few hours a week in the classroom or speak to the class about a special hobby or area of expertise you have. Or maybe there are things you can do for the school in other ways. Chat to your child’s teacher. A child with an active parent in the school will become more engaged themselves.

If you would like more help from Steve and Judith, you can ring them on 01484 487911 or v is i t their website w w w.number worksnwords.co.uk

With so many new things to get to grips with in the first weeks of a new school year it can be difficult for parents and children to get into gear. Steve and Judith Uttley of Huddersfield’s Number Works’nWords offer their six top tips for starting well.

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PR shots: F&F @ Tesco

PR shots: F&F @ Tesco

12 www.familiespennines.co.uk tel: 07580 612800

Swimming is a crucial life skill that everyone can benefit from – but for parents of toddlers and pre-schoolers, Gymbabes and Tumble Tots offers a fantastic way to build your child’s physical confidence out of the water and your trust in their ability.

Tumble Tots in the Pennines is led by Monique Brennan and she finds that parents really appreciate the uninterrupted playtime at such a crucial stage. “Babies learn more between 6 and 18 months than at any other time,” says Monique, “so a Gymbabes class is the perfect way to have space to focus on seeing your child develop towards crawling and walking without any distractions for you or them.”

As the children get older, the special Tumble Tots equipment gives them confidence in balancing, climbing, jumping and a whole range of co-ordination skills that will be useful throughout life.

To f ind out more, r ing Monique on 01484 689467 or v is i t w w w.tumbletots.com/huddersf ie ld

Once children get to school, there will usually be a range of physical activities they can join in – not least playing in the playground. For those children who want to do more than what’s usually on offer in schools, Colne Valley Black Belt Academy offers a range of martial arts for children aged 4, up to and including adults.

Martial arts are renowned for helping people to develop respect, self-discipline, confidence and concentration. Indeed, the chant “Concentration, self-control” is part of the start of each training session for young Ninjas.

Liz, mum of Louis, has high praise for CVBBA, “They have helped my son develop from a happy but shy little boy into a sociable and confident green belt. Through artful coaching he has become a courteous, respectful, fun and outgoing child – all the qualities a parent could hope for.”

And now families can experience the fun and physicality of martial arts training together on Saturdays, plus 6.30-7.15 on Thursday evenings and 6-6.45pm on Friday evenings.

CVBBA encourage those new to the sport to try it out thoroughly before committing to lessons. Primary school children are invited to a FREE trial week of sessions so they can be sure it’s right for them.

To f ind out more r ing 01484 844386 or v is i t w w w.c vbba.co.uk

Clubs and Classes

Healthy bodiesAs everyone looks to build a legacy on the success of our Olympic and Paralympic athletes, helping our children to find a sport or physical activity that really appeals to them is a great way to start.

And it’s never too early.

At Swimbabes, babies as young as 4 weeks can start to learn to swim. Holmfirth-based Swimbabes hold classes throughout the Pennines. Parents who attend classes in Saddleworth are fulsome in their praise:

Kathryn, mum of Freddie, says, “he loves being in the pool. For me, the small classes, comfortable pool and changing area makes getting in and out of the water much more pleasant than a public pool. The teaching is great, very personal and tailored to each child’s age and abilities.”

Richard, dad of Daisy, says, “the pool is as warm as a bath and Daisy and I look forward to each week’s lesson. The tutor is very calm, clear and easy to understand. We love Swimbabes.”

Gillian, mum of Oliver, says, “his confidence and ability grow each week. Every lesson includes lots of learning and fun.”

To f ind out more about Swimbabes c lasses, v is i t website w w w.swimbabes.co.uk or r ing 01484 683570

As the new school year starts, it’s also a time to think about things to do with those who haven’t started school yet and those who want to do something outside school hours that’s their choice.Here are some of the options available in the Pennines.

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines 13

Healthy mindsAlthough schools are committed to trying to do the best they can for each child, sometimes you feel that your child would benefit from some extra help – whether that’s because they’re falling a bit behind, need more of a challenge or are preparing for an exam.

That’s where Number Works’nWords can help. Steve & Judith Uttley’s after-school maths and English classes are designed to help each individual achieve their goals.

Lessons last for an hour in each subject. They also provide tuition for 11+ common entrance exams covering verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning and problem solving strategies.

The tuition fully supports the work done in school but it is different to school. Pupils at NumberWorks’nWords are never afraid to ask for help. The positive and rewarding environment means confidence grows and school results improve. Best of all, the lessons make learning enjoyable.

Jena, a Year 6 pupil, says, “I always get treated nicely and learn something new every week and because of the excellent tuition, I do well in all of my maths tests at school. Everyone has a big heart of gold.”

While Sam from Year 5 says, “The helpful teachers make English fun and easy. I look forward to my lesson every week. I’m improving at school and they’ve made me proud of myself.”

Ella’s mum says, “I’m really impressed with her improvement. She has grown in confidence in only a few weeks and approaches maths in a completely different way.”

NumberWorks’nWords offer a FREE no obligation assessment and introductory lesson. To f ind out more r ing 01484 487911 or emai l huddersf ie ld@number works.com

Artistic endeavoursIt’s also important for children to explore their creative side and there are various ways to do that.

An award-winning artistic option is Creation Station. Since starting up a year ago, Neela Jackson’s Pennine Creation Station has proved really popular with parents and children alike.

Neela’s Creation Station Little Explorers class has just been voted the best pre-school class for children in Rochdale & Bury and runner-up in Oldham & Tameside. The classes run in Littleborough, Uppermill and Mytholmroyd. A session costs £5 and mums praise the class for being friendly and the highlight of their children’s week.

Neela says a real bonus for parents is that their children can get as messy as they want to as they create their works of art, “but parents don’t have the worry and stress of cleaning up like they would at home.”

Neela has classes that are suitable for children aged 6 months to 11 years and offers very popular parties too. To f ind out more contac t Neela on 0844 854 9092 or neela@thecreat ionstat ion.co.uk

For children who want to use drama as a way to develop their confidence, self-esteem, communication, team work and creativity, there’s another award-winning option in the Pennines.

The Helen O’Grady Drama Academy has classes in Hebden Bridge, LIttleborough, Ashton, Stalybridge, Shaw and Uppermill. Principal Wendy Orrell won the 2011 Franchisee of the Year Award in recognition of her work only seven years after starting her Pennine classes.

Kindy drama is for pre-school children aged 3 upwards. Wendy explains, “We can improve basic speech, language and communication skills through our unique programme. Kindy drama is also good for improving listening and concentration skills.”

For primary children and youth groups, Wendy runs a wide range of classes outside school but also works closely with local schools – indeed one school has integrated the programme into their curriculum.

“Working with children is a delight,”says Wendy, “but the most important thing is we have lots of fun!”

I f you want your chi ld to jo in in the fun, r ing Wendy on 01706 810164 or v is i t w w w.helenogrady.co.uk

14 www.familiespennines.co.uk tel: 07580 612800

Monday 3,10,17,24 September Bookstart Busy Babies Hebden Bridge Baby bounce and rhyme sessions for babies and toddlers. Sessions take place on Monday mornings 11.00 – 11.40am. All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. £2 per child or free for Passport to Leisure holders. For more information please contac t B en on 01422 392620. – Hebden Br idge L ibrar y, Cheetham Street, Hebden Br idge HX7 8EP

Tuesday 4,11,18,25 September Hade Edge Parent, Baby & Toddler Group Friendly drop-in sessions. Play, reading time and songs. 10.30am-noon. Adult £1; child 50p, includes drink & snack around 11am. Church Hall, Hade Edge. Emai l p laygroup@mail.com

Thursday 6,13,20,27 September Bookstart Busy Babies Halifax Baby bounce and rhyme sessions for babies and toddlers. Sessions take place on Thursday mornings at 10.00 – 10.40am and 11.00 – 11.40am. All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. £2 per child or free for Passport to Leisure holders. For more information please contac t B en on 01422 392620. – Central L ibrar y, Nor thgate,Hal i fax HX1 1UN

Saturday 8 & 22 September Saturday Art Club, Bankfield Museum, Boothtown Road, Halifax HX3 6HG Saturday 15 & 29 September Saturday Art Club, Smith Art Gallery, Halifax Road, Brighouse HD6 2AF While the adults go shopping the children can take part in a creative and fun workshop. The Club is for children aged 8 -12 years old. We explore a variety of arts and crafts activities using the gallery exhibitions and museum collections for inspiration. £5 per child 10.30-12.30pm. r ing 01422 352334 or e -mai l jef f rey.andrews@calderdale.gov.uk

Saturday 8 & Sunday 9 September Kirklees Light Railway Gala Weekend A packed train schedule, special services, visiting engines & machinery, model railways. Everything for enthusiasts & families alike. R ing 01484 865727 w w w.kirk leesl ightrai lway.com KLR, Clayton West, Huddersf ie ld HD8 9X J

Saturday 15 September The frog who wouldn’t hop Chun does exactly the opposite of whatever his mother asks him to do. She’s at her wits end. English & Korean actors mix storytelling, physical theatre, live music, puppetry & wild humour. Performance 11am & 2pm. Ages 4-7 years. Tickets: adult £6; child £4.50 Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Huddersfield HD1 2SP R ing 01484 430528 w w w.theblt.org

Fountains Abbey Deer Park Walk A family walk to enjoy the view of over 500 wild deer that live in the medieval parkland. 2-4pm. Normal admission charges apply. Fountains Abbey, Ripon HG4 3DY w w w.nationaltrust.org.uk

What's On September/October

Saturday 22 – Sunday 23 September Eureka! Superhero Weekend Calling all supermen & superwomen – join us to see if you really have what it takes to be a planet-saving superhero. Free with standard admission. Eureka! R ing 01422 330069 or vis it w w w.eureka.org.uk Discover y Road, Hal i fax HX1 2NE

Sunday 23 September Whose Story is it Anyway? What happened when Harry Potter discovered he had a twin called Larry/ Or when Charlie built his own chocolate factory? Come and find out as Kepow Theatre Company take suggestions from their young audience, adapt old folk tales, create new ones & improvise stories full of action & adventure. 3pm. Tickets £6. Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax HX1 1BP R ing 01422 351158 w w w.vic tor iatheatre.co.uk

Friday 28 September Bouncers Disco Dance & bounce to music at Bouncers Play Centre. £4, includes hot dog. 5.30-7.30pm. R ing 01457 810300. B ouncers Play Centre, Huddersf ie ld Road, D iggle OL3 5PJ

Friday 28 & Saturday 29 September Yummm! Yummm! Is a dance show that celebrates all that is messy at meal times. Tables can dance, plates can spin & table legs can become musical instruments. Combines dance, puppetry & live music. Post show creative play session with the cast. Performance Friday 10.30am; Saturday 11am; ages 0-4. Saturday 2pm; ages 4-7 years. Tickets: adult £6; child £4.50 Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Huddersfield HD1 2SP R ing 01484 430528 w w w.theblt.org

Sunday 30 September Lost in the Woods? Plan an adventure & make a den to keep you safe. 11am-1pm & 2-4pm. Booking essential. R ing Luc y Chadburn on 01433 670368. Longshaw Estate O ff ice, Longshaw, Sheff ie ld. S11 7TZ

Monday 1,8,15,22,29 October Bookstart Busy Babies Hebden Bridge Baby bounce and rhyme sessions for babies and toddlers. Sessions take place on Monday mornings 11.00 – 11.40am. All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. £2 per child or free for Passport to Leisure holders. For more information please contac t B en on 01422 392620. – Hebden Br idge L ibrar y, Cheetham Street, Hebden Br idge HX7 8EP

Tuesday 2,9,16,23&30 October Hade Edge Parent, Baby & Toddler Group Friendly drop-in sessions. Play, reading time and songs. 10.30am-noon. Adult £1; child 50p, includes drink & snack around 11am. Church Hal l, Hade Edge. Emai l p laygroup@mail.com

Saturday 6 & 20 October Saturday Art Club, Bankfield Museum,Boothtown Road, Halifax HX3 6HG Saturday 13 & 27 October Saturday Art Club, Smith Art Gallery, Halifax Road, Brighouse HD6 2AF While the adults go shopping the children can take part in a creative and fun workshop. The Club is for children aged 8 -12 years old. We explore a variety of arts and crafts activities using the gallery exhibitions and museum collections for inspiration. £5 per child 10.30-12.30pm. r ing 01422 352334 or e -mai l jef f rey.andrews@calderdale.gov.uk

TraMpoLine and GyMnasTicpLay cenTre

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines 15

For more events visit www.familiespennines.co.uk/whatson

Families Pennines tries to get the details right – but sometimes things change so please check before you travel.

Want your event listing? email the details to editor@famil iespennines.co.uk

Thursday 4,11,18,25 October Bookstart Busy Babies Halifax Baby bounce and rhyme sessions for babies and toddlers. Sessions take place on Thursday mornings at 10.00 – 10.40am and 11.00 – 11.40am. All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. £2 per child or free for Passport to Leisure holders. For more information please contac t B en on 01422 392620. – Central L ibrar y, Nor thgate,Hal i fax HX1 1UN

Saturday 13 October Mini Books Work with artist in residence, Anna Connor, to write & illustrate your own character in a mini book. Workshop 11am& 2pm. Ages 3-10. Tickets: £4 adult; £2.50 child. Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Huddersfield HD1 2SP R ing 01484 430528 w w w.theblt.org

Sunday 14 October There was an old lady who swallowed a fly I don’t know why she swallowed a fly…but The People’s Theatre Company do! And they’ll share the answer with you through games, animal character & family fun. 2.30pm Tickets: child £8.50; adult £9.50. Family tickets available. Victoria Theatre, Fountain Street, Halifax HX1 1BP R ing 01422 351158 w w w.vic tor iatheatre.co.uk

Friday 19 October – Sunday 4 November Eureka! Ghost Town Visit our haunted town where fiendish events unfold & lost ghosts wander the streets. Free with standard admission. Eureka! R ing 01422 330069 or v is i t w w w.eurek a.org.uk D iscover y Road, Hal i fax HX1 2NE

● Structured 45 minute sessions● Jumping, rolling, climbing, balancing● Fun songs and rhymes● Specially designed children’s equipment● Separate classes for ages 7 months to 7 yrs● Monday and Tuesday - Sheffield● Wednesday and Saturday – Huddersfield● Thursday – Holme Valley● Friday – Denby Dale

Skillsfor Life

The Leading National Physical Play Programme

To book, phone 01484 689467 or visit www.tumbletots.com/huddersfield

Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 October Kirklees Light Railway 21st Anniversary Celebrations Join the celebrations to mark KLR’s special anniversary. R ing 01484 865727 w w w.kirk leesl ightrai lway.com KLR, Clayton West, Huddersf ie ld HD8 9X J

Tuesday 23 October Halifax Sparks! Design & make your own patterns for the festivals of Eid & Diwali. 1-2pm & 2-3pm. £2 per child. Booking essential. R ing 01422 368725. Hal i fax Vis i tor Centre & Ar t G al ler y, Piece Hal l, Hal i fax. HX1 1RE

Wednesday 24 October Bankfield Sparks! Make your own wildlife pictures & hear some animal tales.11am-12noon, 1-2pm & 2-3pm. £2 per child. Booking essential. R ing 01422 352332. B ankf ie ld Museum, B oothtown Road, Hal i fax HX3 6HG

Thursday 25 October Shibden Sparks! Join the spooky visitor on a terrifying trail around the hall, create your own spell book. 1-2 & 2-3pm. Shibden Hal l, L ister ’s Road, Hal i fax HX3 6XG

Friday 26 October Smith Sparks! Create your own bats and spiders. 1.30-2.30 & 2.30-3.30pm. £2 per child. Booking essential. R ing Fiona Wil lats on 01422 352334. Smith Ar t G al ler y, Hal i fax Road, Br ighouse HD6 2AF

TraMpoLine and GyMnasTicpLay cenTre

Bouncers Disco Dance & bounce to music at Bouncers Play Centre. £4, includes hot dog. 5.30-7.30pm. R ing 01457 810300. B ouncers Play Centre, Huddersf ie ld Road, D iggle OL3 5PJ

Saturday 27 October The Three Billy Pigs A blend of two classic fairy tales, The Three Little Pigs & The Three Billy Goats Gruff, using puppets, storytelling & live music. Performance 11am, 2pm & 3.30pm. Ages 3-7. Tickets: £6 adult; £4.50 child. Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen’s Square, Huddersfield HD1 2SP R ing 01484 430528 w w w.theblt.org

Saturday 27 October – Wednesday 31 October Spiders & Webs Follow the clues on the trail and join in with drop-in craft activities in Swanley Grange. 11am-3pm. For information r ing 01765 608888. Fountains Abbey, R ipon HG4 3DY w w w.nat ionaltrust.org.uk

Saturday 27 October – Sunday 4 November Meet Paddington Bear A week of family activities at York’s National Railway Museum with the famous Bear. Full details www.nrm.uk/paddingtonbear R ing 0844 8153 NRM, Leeman Road, York YO26 4X J

Monday 29 October – Tuesday 30 October Creepy Crawlies Hibernation Box Making Create your own insect hibernation box in this drop-in craft workshop at Fountains Mill. £2.50 per box. 10am-12noon & 1-3pm. Booking essential. R ing 01765 643197 Fountains Abbey, R ipon HG4 3DY w w w.nat ionaltrust.org.uk

Wednesday 31 October It’s a Monk’s Life Dress in monk’s robes & learn about their daily life on this family tour of the abbey. Ages 7+. 2-3.30pm. For information r ing 01765 608888. Fountains Abbey, R ipon HG4 3DY w w w.nat ionaltrust.org.uk

Please say you saw us in Families Pennines

numberworksnwords.com Huddersfi eld Ph 01484 487911

YOUR CHILDREN ARE

AMAZING ALREADY.

WE JUST HELP THEM

PROVE IT.

numberworksnwords.comHuddersfi eld Ph

From Reception to Year 11, NumberWorks’nWords after-school tuition brings out the best in every student by: tailoring lessons according to each individual’s needs

setting achievable goals and monitoring their progress

developing our own programmes using only qualifi ed Maths and English experts

following the national curriculum

teaching Verbal Reasoning skills and strategies

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