Raring2go! Altrincham & Sale

ALTRINCHAM & SALE DAYS OUT P10-19 SUNFLOWER WINNERS P24 BACK TO SCHOOL P4-7 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk AUTUMN 2022

3 Raring2go! WELCOME Copyright © 2022 by Mojo Publishing Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical or electronic, including photocopying and recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Requests for permission or further information should be addressed to the Publishers. Published by Raring2go! Altrincham & Sale. Email altrincham@raring2go.co.uk Ph: 07766 991935 All information in this magazine is published in good faith and cannot be reproduced without written permission. Whilst the publisher makes every effort to ensure that the businesses featured in this magazine are of the highest quality, we do not guarantee the services and products from any businesses featured. GET IN TOUCH: e: altrincham@raring2go.co.uk t: 07766 991935 w: raring2go.co.uk/altrincham Your guide to an awesome Autumn We’re back with another fun-packed issue filled with ideas for the whole family this Autumn. Here’s what you can find inside... Page 4-7 Back to School 8-9 Clubs and Classes 10-18 What’s On/Days Out 19 Half Term Planner 21-23 Autumn Activities, Recipes & Crafts 24 Sunflower Competition Winners 25 Competitions/ Offers 26-31 Under 5s Activities Let me know what you’d like to see in future issues, I’d love to hear your feedback. Jo, Editor ADVERTISE WITH US Calling all local, family friendly businesses! Be part of our Winter magazine. 10,000 copies distributed from late November Get in touch today for details

5 Raring2go! BACK TO SCHOOL Raring2go! BACK TO SCHOOL 4 raring2go.co.uk Applications for September 2023 - Primary schools If your child lives in Trafford and was born between 1 September 2018 and 31 August 2019, you can apply for a school place on the Trafford Council website. If you don’t have internet access contact the School Admissions Team on 0161 912 5007 for advice on how to submit your application. If your child lives in another local authority you can still apply for Trafford schools, but you must apply via your own home local authority (where you pay your council tax). Applications must be submitted by 15 January 2023. For more information, visit Trafford Council’s website at www.trafford.gov.uk/admissions Primary School applications – key dates • 15 January 2023 - Closing date for submission of Primary applications • 16 April 2023 - Offer regarding Primary applications is made to all parents • 30 April 2023 - Closing date for acceptance of offers Transferring to Secondary School - September 2023 If your child lives in Trafford you can apply for a secondary school place on the Trafford Council website. If you want to apply for a grammar school place you must first apply to the schools direct, to sit the entrance examination. High schools in Altrincham and Sale are significantly oversubscribed and it is frequently the case that some catchment area children do not achieve places in their preferred schools. We urge families in to read the important detailed advice for their area on our website. If you don’t have internet access, contact the School Admissions Team on 0161 912 5007 for advice on how to submit your application. If your child lives in another local authority, you can still apply for Trafford schools, but you must apply via your own home local authority (where you pay your council tax). Applications must be submitted by 31 October 2022. For more information, visit Trafford Council’s website: www.trafford.gov.uk/admissions Secondary Transfer – key dates • 31 October 2022 - Closing date for submission of secondary transfer applications • 1 March 2023 - Offers regarding secondary school applications are made to all parents • 15 March 2023 - Closing date for acceptance of offers Trafford School Admissions September 2023

Raring2go! MAKING LEARNING FUN Raring2go! MAKING LEARNING FUN 6 raring2go.co.uk 7 Wordsearch: 1. ROALD DAHL - THE BFG 2. JULIA DONALDSON - THE GRUFFALO 3. JK ROWLING - HARRY POTTER 4. JEFF KINNEY - WIMPY KID 5. FRANCESCA SIMON - HORRID HENRY Types of Book: A=4 B=2 C=3 D=1 ROALD DAHL THE GRUFFALO JULIA DONALDSON WIMPY KID JK ROWLING HORRID HENRY JEFF KINNEY THE BFG FRANCESCA SIMON HARRY POTTER Can you draw a line between the Author and their character? Then find all of the words in the wordsearch below. • CHOOSE A RANDOM LETTER • START A 30 SECOND TIMER • FILL IN THE ANSWERS BELOW USING WORDS THAT BEGIN WITH YOUR CHOSEN LETTER SCATTERGORIES An author A fiction book A comic-book Character E.G. Roald Dahl E.G. Rainbow Magic E.G. Robin Robin C. AUTO BIOGRAPHY A. FICTION 4. A made up story B. NON-FICTION D. BIOGRAPHY 2. A true story or facts 1. Written about someone elses life 3. Written about someones own life Do you know what each of these kinds of books mean? Draw a line to the correct description and the book type Plate Whiteboard Pens Jug of water FLOATING HEARTS #amazelabathome Whiteboard pens contain substances that prevent the ink from clinging to the surfaces like your plate. When water is added the molecules move under your picture and it pops up! The ink is insoluble and less dense than the water allowing your picture to float. INSTRUCTIONS THESCIENCE! 1 Draw the heart shapes on your plate. Aim to keep the shapes as simple as possible. Pour the water from your jug onto the plate. Take care not to pour the water too fast. Watch as the water starts to lift your picture from the plate and bring your floating hearts to life! 2 3 SCANME! To see video demonstrations of other fun experiments, scan the QR code and watch on your phone, tablet or computer. We’d love to see how you get on with the experiment! Please share on social media using #amazelabathome REMEMBERTOASKFORADULTPERMISSION AND/ORSUPERVISIONWHENREQUIRED! FOLLOW US ON © amazelab 2021 *Whist we endevour to be sure these are safe, fun activies they should still be undertaken with adult supervision and are completed at your own risk. Amazelab cannot be held responsible for any damage caused by misuse of any equipment. YOUWILLNEED...

8 raring2go.co.uk 9 Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES Raring2go! CLUBS AND CLASSES Holiday Clubs something for everyone Now that term has started again, it’s time to think about occupying the children with holiday clubs for their next break – either October half term or Christmas, which will come round sooner than you think. There are many classes for children which cater for all types of interests. For instance, is your little girl bows-and-arrows mad like Katniss from the Hunger Games? Then an archery class would suit her. Or does your son want to dance like a member of a boyband? He can learn how, while you have the house to yourself. Swimming suits everyone and is an all year round activity - not just for summer! A week long intensive course does wonders for a child’s confidence in the water. Dancing, drama, art, forest school, football, rugby, gymnastics, music... think of the clubs your children attend already - with enough demand maybe their teacher will run a holiday session. Check out the lessons on our clubs and classes pages or on our website as most of them also run holiday clubs at different times of the year. If you are looking for October don’t wait too long, the best places get booked up quickly. To see what’s on offer, head over to: https://raring2go.co.uk/ businesses/holiday-clubsround-up-2022/

10 raring2go.co.uk 11 Raring2go! DAYS OUT Raring2go! DAYS OUT Deadliest Plants and Bugs Sat Sun Oct Clever creepy-crawlies and super-smart plants. Discover what happens when nature fights back with fun activities this half term. Your visit supports our work as a charity JOIN THE RHS TODAY JOIN THE RHS TODAY RHS members go free rhs.org.uk/bridgewater What’s on this Autumn Here’s our pick of local, family friendly events happening over the next few months. As always, information is subject to change so make sure you check before you set off. You’ll find even more events on our website: www.raring2go.co.uk/area/ altrincham-and-sale/whats-on/ SEPTEMBER 24th September, 22nd October and 19th November Comedysportz 4 Tots & Comedysportz, Waterside, Sale Little kids are guaranteed plenty of silly songs, stories and adventures in ComedySportz for Tots and in the later show two teams of comedians will go for gold with quick-witted gags, games, sketches and songs in this all improvised show. Who wins? You decide! https://watersidearts.org 24th September to 16th November Mog’s Autumnal Adventures, Dunham Massey National Trust Join Mog to learn about the habitats and homes of Dunham’s special creatures and critters as you follow the family-friendly trail. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dunham-massey 25th September The Bubble Show, Waterside, Sale Join Mr. Bubbles with his extraordinary soap bubbles in all shapes and sizes! The Bubble Show is a unique blend of magic, storytelling and bubble art! Enjoy bouncy bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, smoke bubbles, square bubbles, giant bubbles and even fire bubbles! 14:00. Age 3 – 12 yrs. https://watersidearts.org 25th September Stoller Story Sounds – Snowbear’s Story Come along and help shy Snowbear find a way to tell his story! See his melodies dance colours through the Air. If stories were sounds and had colour, what sounds and colours would your stories reveal? Join our artists Carla, Lizzie and Matouš as they explore the wonderful ‘Air’ element of nature through story, illustration and sound – followed by a classic chamber music tale performed by Trio Bohémo to top it off. 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Musical story journeys for pre-schoolers and their grown-ups. Part of our Elements of Nature programme. Suitable for ages 3-5. https://stollerhall.com/families OCTOBER - let’s this 1st to 31st October Dunham Massey Farm Ice Cream Halloween Fun, Ash Farm, Dunham Massey We are growing 30,000 pumpkins ready for you to come and pick; from the standard Jack ‘o’ Lantern to giant, knobbly or white varieties. Pumpkins are priced according to size, so you simply pay for the pumpkins you pick! With free car parking, no booking required, our giant Tee-Pee serving hot food, pumpkin spice lattes and of course, the very best homemade ice cream in the area (including special Halloween flavours), we’re the premier destination for your pumpkin needs this October. www.dunhammasseyicecream.com

12 raring2go.co.uk 13 Raring2go! DAYS OUT Raring2go! DAYS OUT FAMILY EVENTS at The Stoller Hall PROFESSOR LIGHTBULB’S MARVELLOUS INVENTIONS DAVID GIBB’S FAMILY JUKEBOX STOLLER STORY SOUNDS 05.11.22 | 1pm 25.09.22 – 18.12.22 stollerhall.com/families 11.12.22 | 11am & 3pm + interactive workshop at 1pm Musical workshops for pre-schoolers and their grown-ups. THIS HALLOWEEN theOldHall 22-30October * RETURNS THE Mums & Dads 1/4 Page Wizards come and gather at The Old Hall. Take centre stage in this Halloween quest and help us defeat the evil sorcerer. Spell casting and broomstick training are a must! * Selected dates Book online to enjoy free car entry! Special discounted prices for groups of 6 wizards or witches. tattonpark.org.uk/events Weekends throughout October and 22nd to 30th October The Dunham Pumpkin Patch, Boundary Farm, Dunham Massey Take a walk through our Apple Orchard at Boundary Farm, picking pumpkins as you go, as well as enjoying authentic Wood Fired Pizzas and Award Winning Dunham Massey Apple Juice. This year we have tractor rides and make sure you take a photo opportunity with our giant cardboard cut-outs. www.dunhampumpkins.co.uk 2nd October Apple Day in the Walled Kitchen Garden, Tatton Park Join us for a delicious day in Tatton Park’s walled kitchen garden to celebrate the apple in all its glory! (Garden entry fees apply, no additional cost for the event) www.tattonpark.org.uk 7th to 23rd October Manchester Literature Festival There will be a number of events for children and families featuring acclaimed authors, illustrators, performers and musicians bringing books to life through storytelling, crafts, drama and music. www.manchesterliteraturefestival.co.uk 8th October Apple Festival, Moor Nook Park With Around the Box coming to run games, challenges and activities, the usual tombola, and tea/cakes stalls, crafts for the children. Lots for all the family. www.facebook.com/moornookpark 14th October Tin Man, Waterside, Sale A magical new retelling of this beloved character’s journey to finding their heart. Age 7+. 50 mins no interval. https://watersidearts. org 15th October St Peter’s Good As New Sale, St Peter’s Assembly Rooms, Hale 10am - 12noon. 25% of proceeds go to Wythenshawe Hospital Neonatal Unit. www.facebook.com/GANStPeters 16th October Morgan and West: Unbelievable Science, Waterside, Sale Captivating chemistry, phenomenal physics and bonkers biology in this fun science extravaganza! Expect explosive thrills, chemical spills and a risk assessment that gives their stage manager chills, all backed up by the daring duo’s trademark wit, charm and detailed knowledge of the scientific method. Age 6+. 60 mins no interval. https://watersidearts.org 16th October Fungal Foray with Fungal Punk Dave, Tatton Park Join Fungal Punk Dave and a Tatton Park ranger on a guided walk in Tatton’s parkland discovering the mysterious world of fungi. (£15 per person, includes Parkland vehicle entry. Book via www.tattonpark.org.uk 22nd October Stoller Story Sounds – Dandylion and the Sad Stem, Stoller Hall, Manchester M3 Come and join Dandylion as he helps a sad flower stem to find its lost petals scattered over Africa’s plains. Led by storyteller Carla Henry and illustrator Lizzie Finlay, this interactive workshop features live music inspired by Soweto’s glorious gospel choir and their Freedom concert tour, in honour of the father of their rainbow nation, Nelson Mandela. This will open a world of imagination through song, drawing and spoken word. Attendees are entitled to one free ticket to Soweto Gospel Choir – use code DANDYLION to book a free ticket. 10.30am, 11.30am. Suitable for ages 3-5. https://stollerhall.com/families

Raring2go! DAYS OUT 15 Raring2go! DAYS OUT 22nd October Soweto Gospel Choir, Stoller Hall, Manchester M3 Soweto Gospel Choir bring their Freedom concert tour to Manchester in honour of the father of their rainbow nation, Nelson Mandela. The three time Grammy Award winners, including 2019 Best World Music Album for Freedom will perform a collection of songs which celebrate and commemorate South Africa’s democratic movement struggle. https://stollerhall.com/families 22nd to 30th October October half term fun: Deadliest Plants and Bugs, RHS Garden Bridgewater, Salford Head to RHS Bridgewater this October and have a go at some fun craft and planting activities inspired by the carnivorous plants and cacti that don’t mind fighting back. During the Halloween weekend, discover the phenomenal world of fungi with foraging and join storyteller Yan Tan Tethera for fun family walk inspired by marvellous mushrooms and magical folklore. There are surprises in store on Bug Day, and don’t miss family theatre show Du Iz Tak? a tiny tale told by tiny creatures about BIG ideas! All events free with garden and drop in. Book garden tickets: https://RHS.org.uk/Bridgewater 22nd to 30th October The Pumpkin Patch at the Farm, Tatton Park Come down and meet our farmyard animals before picking your pumpkin! Numbers are limited so pre booking is advised. (Standard Farm entry + £4 per pumpkin). https://www. tattonpark.org.uk 22nd to 30th October* The Sorcerer Returns for a Wizards Gathering this Halloween, Tatton Park *selected dates. Wizards come and gather at Tatton Park’s Old Hall. Take centre stage in this Halloween quest and help us defeat the evil sorcerer. Spell casting and broomstick training are a must! – This is a brand new story to be run by Rusticus; an immersive, spellbinding and memorable day out for families this Halloween (Standard tickets: £18 per person (adults & children), Friends and Family Ticket: £96 group of 6 people. https://www. tattonpark.org.uk 23rd October Jack Frost & The Search For Winter, Waterside, Sale When temperatures drop and cold snaps come, that means only one thing: Jack Frost is here! But this year when winter comes Jack’s extraordinary magic fades. With his powers lost he becomes just an ordinary boy. Age 3+ https://watersidearts.org 24th October Creepy Crawly Show, Everything 4, Stanley Square, Sale Come and get close with the animals. For some species, hold them and learn some fascinating and fun facts along the way. https://www.everything4.co.uk 24th to 30th October The Sound of Music, Altrincham Garrick Playhouse Featuring a trove of cherished songs, including “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “My Favourite Things,” “Do Re Mi,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and the title number, The Sound of Music won the hearts of audiences worldwide, earning five Tony Awards and five Oscars. Altrincham Garrick Playhouse brings you a Musical for October Half Term that is perfect for all generations. https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/ shows/the-sound-of-music/ 14 raring2go.co.uk

Raring2go! DAYS OUT 17 Raring2go! DAYS OUT 16 raring2go.co.uk 27th October Halloween Party, Everything 4, Stanley Square, Sale Our perfectly cute but ever so slightly spooky halloween event is not to be missed. Including games, spooky magic, balloon making and disco. https://www.everything4.co.uk 28th October Roald Dahl and the Imagination Seeds, Waterside, Sale All around the world Roald Dahl’s words are disappearing not only from books but children’s minds too! Now only a Secret Organisation known as The Ancient Guild of Taletenders can save the stories …and they need your help! Age 5+. 60 mins no interval. https://watersidearts.org 29th October Halloween at Walton Park With ghostly train rides, bouncy castles and refreshments. Trains running between 5-8pm. www.waltonparktrains.co.uk 30th October I Spy With My Little Eye, Waterside, Sale Molly and Bingo the puppy are having a birthday party and, best of all, you’re invited! There’ll be a terrific treasure hunt, sensational sing-along songs and lots of fantastic games to play, including Molly’s favourite game, I Spy With My Little Eye. Age 2+. 55 mins no interval. https://watersidearts.org 31st October Halloween Face Painting, Everything 4, Stanley Square, Sale Take the stress out of face painting at home and check out our amazing artist - to get into the halloween spirit. https://www.everything4.co.uk NOVEMBER 4th November Bowdon Fireworks 53rd Annual Bonfire Night, Bowdon Cricket, Hockey and Squash Club, South Downs Rd, Bowdon. 6pm - gates Open. 7pm - Children’s Display (less noise) 7.20pm - Bonfire Lit 8pm - Second Display 8.20pm - Grande Finale Bars & Barbecues. Stalls & Rides www.bowdonclub.com 5th November Professor Lightbulb’s Marvellous Inventions, Stoller Hall, Manchester M3 Join musicians from the Chetham’s orchestra and be inspired by music, discovering some amazing inventions along the way. The last 50 years have seen so many amazing new things – mobile phones, laptops, new vaccines – but there might be a few things which take you by surprise, too! Come along and see Professor Lightbulb as he meets the orchestra and they explore some amazing inventions together. 1pm. Suitable for ages 3-12. https://stollerhall.com/families Presents A MAGICAL FAMILY EXPERIENCE Everything4christmasticketsavailablesoon checkthesiteregularlyfordiscounts bookyoureverythingpartynow checkthewebsiteforyourperfectparty www.everything4.co.uk/ Stanley Square, Sale, M33 7ZE Buy tickets on our site www.Everything4.co.uk Followus forup todate events Monday24th October10-3CreepyCrawlyshow come&getclosewiththe animalsandforsome speciesholdthemandlearn somefascinatingandfun factsalongtheway Thursday27th October4-6Halloweenparty Ourperfectlycutebutever soslightlyspookyHalloween eventisnottobemissed- Incl.games,spookymagic, balloonmakinganddisco Monday31st October4-6SPOOKYfacepainting GETINTOTHEHALLOWEEN spiritANDtakethestress outofFacepaintingAT HOMEWITHOURAMAZINGLY SPOOKYARTIST

Raring2go! DAYS OUT Saturday 22nd October Sunday 23rd October Monday 24th October Tuesday 25th October Wednesday 26th October Thursday 27th October Friday 28th October Saturday 29th October Sunday 30th October 18 raring2go.co.uk 5th November Beauty & The Beast, Waterside, Sale Inspired by the original tale, this production tells the story of Belle, a beautiful and intelligent young woman who feels out of place in her provincial French village, and the Beast, a grisly and fearsome monster. https://watersidearts.org 16th November to 30th December RHS Garden Bridgewater, Salford A sparkling new route for 2022 Glow returns to the RHS Bridgewater with a new trail full of festive colour and sparkle. New for 2022, weave your way through yew domes festooned with fairy lights, explore the magical family discovery trail inspired by local folklore, take a selfie with giant, colourchanging stars and enjoy colourful light projections and hundreds of lights twinkling across the garden walls and Orchard lawn. Magical Moon Bridge Water Walk through the garden enjoying magnificent trees and shrubs bathed in a spectrum of light, before arriving at Moon Bridge Water to experience a dramatic fountain display, full of colour and music. Booking essential https://rhs.org.uk/bridgewaterglow AT HOME OR ON THE ROAD ... RARING2GO! AT YOUR FINGERTIPS THEGO TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY INFORMATION WITH GREAT SUPERFAST AND PACKED D AN RB NEW WEBSITE 4923 Raring2go New Website Ad May 2022 PA03.indd 1 08/06/2022 09:57

Get the weekly children’s magazine subscription that families love. Join tens of thousands of families with a weekly Beano comic subscription. Named Children’s Magazine of the Year 2021, the Beano comic is the ultimate magazine subscription for kids aged 6 to 12. The £12.50 offer is for new Direct Debit subscribers only. Your first payment will be £12.50 for the first three months, then £27.50 per quarter thereafter. UK bank accounts only. Savings based on yearly newsstand price of £149.50. Prices shown are based on UK delivery. International delivery also available, please see the latest prices on our website. Overseas customers please call +441382 575580 or visit our website. Closing 31st October 2022. One Beano comic delivered to your door ever week. 50 issues per year. WEEKLY COMICS TO YOUR DOOR! HOW TO SIGN UP! OR Ask an adult to help. Visit: shop.beano.com/raring2go CALL: 0800 318846 Freephone from UK landlines and mobiles. (MON-FRI 8am-6pm) It’s Pumpkin Time What will you be doing with your pumpkins this year? We spoke to our pumpkin “experts” to discover their top tips... Storing your pumpkin Jonny from The Dunham Pumpkin Patch on Henshall Lane advises, “If you are not planning to carve the pumpkin when you get home straight away please do not store it in a plastic bag underneath the sink (as it will go mushy v quickly) If you have a garage, please store it in a cool place and it will keep nicely until you are ready to carve.” Pimp your pumpkin Go wild! Whether you’re using acrylic paints, glue, glitter, stickers, pom poms or whatever you find in your craft stash - let your imagination run free with colourful decorations galore Use it as a vase To make a stunning table centrepiece, cut off the lid and scoop out the seeds as you would when carving a pumpkin. Put your favourite autumnal flowers into a small glass jar or plastic beaker filled with water and pop the whole thing into your pumpkin. Waste not want not Don’t let your pumpkin waste end up in landflll. You can harvest the seeds to grow your own next year. Pumpkins are amazing to cook with too, full of vitamin A and low in fat. They can be used for everything from soup to cake, from pasties to milkshakes. Grate some into bolognaise sauce or add some into a risotto. It’s great messy fun to cook with pumpkins, so children will love it. Jenny Fyall from Udny Pumpkins in Aberdeenshire enjoys cooking with pumpkins so much she’s written a book - The Pumpkin Patch Cookbook; Forty tasty recipes celebrating the magic of pumpkin in the kitchen. Easy Pumpkin Cake Here’s one of Jenny’s recipes for you to try with your kids: Bake in a square tin and slice into squares for elevenses or the school lunchbox Makes 12 Ingredients: • 175g sugar • 175ml sunflower oil • 3 eggs • 150g pumpkin, grated • 100g raisins • 175g self-raising flour • 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • Pinch of ground ginger, ground nutmeg and ground cloves For the drizzle icing: • 50g icing sugar • The juice from half an orange Method: • Heat the oven to 180oC. • Line a 21cm square tin with non-stick paper. • In a large bowl, mix the sugar, oil and eggs. Stir in the grated pumpkin. Add the raisins and dry ingredients. • Pile into the prepared tin and bake for about one hour until it springs back to the touch and a toothpick or skewer comes out clean. • Remove from the tin and leave to cool. • Mix the icing sugar and orange juice and use a teaspoon to drizzle over the cooled cake. • Cut into a dozen squares. Raring2go! RECIPES 21

22 raring2go.co.uk 23 Raring2go! AUTUMN IDEAS Raring2go! AUTUMN IDEAS Embrace the outdoors with autumn’s awe-inspiring wildlife! Autumn is a fantastic time to get out in nature. While colder temperatures, damp weather, and shorter days aren’t everybody’s cup of tea, these conditions mean that wildlife is doing all sorts of weird and wonderful things. They’re well worth putting on some warm clothing and some wellies to see! We’ve compiled a collection of top autumn wildlife dramas below. Some of them you’ll be able to see in your local area, or even out of your window, but if you fancy a day out we’ve also included a list of top RSPB reserves where these spectacles really shine. The dance of the starlings Starlings, a medium-sized bird with a remarkable ability to mimic other birds, huddle together when it’s cold at night to stay warm. These big flocks are like dinner buffets to predators such as falcons and hawks, however, so starling need a defence strategy – and they turn to dance. As dusk falls starlings come together in their hundreds or even thousands to swoop, ascend, dive, and lift in a cloud of orchestrated patterns that can help throw off predators. Their improvised choreography once led scientists to theorise that starlings must have psychic powers! For your best chance at seeing a murmuration, pick a day that’s clear, calm, and cold, and try to arrive a bit before dusk. Starling murmurations can start as early as September and often continue into January or February. Kaleidoscopes of colour Autumn leaves are a daily wonder. The shorter days means the leaves absorb less light, and therefore create less sugar, triggering the plant to seal off the leaf and begin to shed. The lower temperatures also break down the compounds in the leaf, leaving us with a kaleidoscope of greens, yellow, reds, and oranges. And it’s not just the leaves that provide spectacular colour shows in autumn. Shorter days bring fantastic sunsets and reedbeds transform from green to purple and gold. Whirling waders and wonderful wildfowl Autumn is a time of movement for many birds across the UK. The colder weather prompts some species, such as the swallow and the house martin, to journey thousands of miles back to their warmer homes in Africa. To other birds that spend most of the year in Iceland and northern Europe, however, the UK’s autumn is relatively balmy, and we begin to welcome whole new flocks of migratory geese, ducks, and wading birds. Head to www.rspb.org.uk/reservesand-events to explore over 170 RSPB reserves and the sights they offer all year round. Make your family tree from Autumn leaves

Raring2go! COMPETITIONS 25 Raring2go! #R2GSUNFLOWERCOMP SUMMER HACKS 24 raring2go.co.uk WIN! Tickets to Professor Lightbulb’s Marvellous Inventions at Stoller Hall SAVE! Buy one game get one game free at Atlantic Bowl. Quote R2GBOWL when booking For more fabulous competitions and money saving offers head to www.raring2go.co.uk Find the ‘save & win’ tab and localise to Altrincham The Raring2go! Altrincham & Sale Sunflower Competition 2022 - Winners We launched our fourth annual sunflower competition in Spring and thanks to our Sponsors Kids Planet Day Nurseries, Dunham Massey Farm Ice Cream and Emporium M33 we distributed seeds and pots to local schools, playgroups and community groups. Since then you have been sending in your pictures and we have loved watching your sunflowers flourish and grow! We are now really excited to announce the winners of the tallest sunflowers... And the winners are: 1) Callum and Erin, 302cm!! 2) Catherine and Nia, 300cm 2) Charlotte, 300cm 4) Jeffrey, 283cm Each will receive a £10 book token 1 2 Thanks to our sponsors: 4 2 Thank you so much to everyone who entered! Here are a few more of the amazing entries we received...

26 raring2go.co.uk 27 Raring2go! UNDER 5s Raring2go! UNDER 5s Adventure Babies: Hannah, 07875733919, hannah@adventurebabies.co.uk, www.adventurebabies.co.uk/classes/southmanchester-altrincham/ Bloom South Manchester: Sam, southmanchester@bloombabyclasses.com, www.bloombabyclasses.com/ bloomsouthmanchester Evolve Gymnastics Academy: info@evolvegymnasticsacademy.co.uk, www.evolvegymnasticsacademy.co.uk Happy Kids, Altrincham Preschool Playgroup/ Happy Tots Toddler Group: 07837 273357, www.happykidsaltrincham.co.uk, hello@happykidsaltrincham.co.uk Kidslingo Spanish: Claire, 07970 977264, www.kidslingo.co.uk/area/spanish-classesaltrincham-sale, claire.buckley@kidslingo.co.uk Kicks Dance South Manchester: Cara, 07921122939, cara@kicksdance.co.uk, www.kicksdance.co.uk/south-manchester Little Superstars: Louise, 01925 555859, louise@littlesuperstars.co.uk, www.littlesuperstars.co.uk Noodle Performance Arts: Cat, 07769 155591, cat@noodleperformancearts.com, www.noodleperformancearts.com Phonics Bear: Ruth, www.phonicsbear.co.uk, ruth.murphy@phonicsbear.co.uk, 07443 833239 Rhythm and Rhyme: Laura, 07795 484494 laura.harding@rhythmandrhyme.co.uk, www.rhythmandrhyme.co.uk Stagecoach Altrincham: Marion, 07904 451199, www.stagecoach.co.uk/altrincham Tennis Tykes: Caroline, 07843 342662, caroline.buncall@tennistykes.co.uk, www.tennistykes.co.uk These Mums Do Fitness: Becca, www.thesemumsdo.co.uk, 07525 790704, becca@thesemumsdo.co.uk Trident Taekwon_Do Academy: James, 07974 649015, hello@tridenttkdmanchester.co.uk, www.tridenttkdmanchester.co.uk Tots Play Sale: Angel, 07484 298614, angelsb@totsplay.co.uk, www.totsplay.co.uk/sale, www.facebook.com/Totsplaysale Tumbletots: Jane, 07812 144450, www.tumbletots.com/trafford, tumble_tots.jane@hotmail.co.uk, Water Babies: 123Swim@waterbabies.co.uk, 0161 928 6385, www.waterbabies.co.uk Activities for the Under 5s Our handy day-by-day listings guide will help you to organise your week. Many classes will need booking in advance and some are term time only, so please call to check availability. MONDAY Adventure Babies, East Didsbury Methodist Church, Parrs Wood Road, Didsbury 9:45-10:30am, Babies and toddlers 0-2 yr olds 11-11:45am, Babies 0 - 12 months 12:15-1pm, Mixed ages 0 - 4 year olds Happy Kids, Altrincham Preschool Playgroup, St Georges Parish Hall, Church Walk, Altrincham 9:10am-3:30pm Happy Tots Stay and Play, St Georges Parish Hall, Church Walk, Altrincham £2 per session per family. Drop in. 10-11:30am Evolve Gymnastics Academy, Fenside Road, Manchester, M22 10-10:45am, Baby Gym 6 months to 2 years 11:30am-12:15pm, Preschool Gymnastics 2yrs+ 1-1:45pm, Preschool Gymnastics 2yrs+ Kicks Dance, The Parish Hall, Holy Cross Church, Timperley 2-2:30pm, Preschool class (3 and 4 years) Little Superstars, Wilmslow Leisure Centre 10-10:50am, Multi-Sports Little Superstars, Grappenhall Community Centre 1:15-2:00pm, Multi-Sports Tennis Tykes, Stamford Park Tennis Courts/ Total Fitness, Altrincham 4-4:45pm, 4-6 yrs 4:45-5:30pm, 6-8 yrs Tennis Tykes (Didsbury), Wythenshawe Park tennis courts/Scout Hut, Parrswood 1:30-2:15pm, 2-4 yrs These Mums Do Fitness, Davyhulme Park, Urmston 9:30-10:30am, Mum and baby These Mums Do Fitness, Online 30 min online HIIT class. 7am Trident Taekwon-Do Academy, Sale Rugby Club, Whitehall Road, Sale 4-4:45pm, Kubz Classes (ages 3 to 6) Tumbletots, Altrincham FC Community Sports Hall, Moss Lane, Hale, Altrincham 9:30–10:15am, Walking - 2 Years 10:30–11:15am, 2 - 3 Years 11:30am–12:15pm, 6 months - Walking 12.45–1:30pm, 3 Years - School Age Water Babies, The Marriott Hotel, Hale Barns 10:30am-12:30pm Water Babies, Pictor Academy, Timperley (Hydro) 10am-3:30pm TUESDAY Adventure Babies Sale Conservative Club, 161 Dane Road, Sale 9:45-10:30am, Babies and toddlers 0-2 yr olds 11-11:45am, Babies 0 - 12 months 12:15-1pm, Mixed ages 0 - 4 year olds Bloom South Manchester, Westleigh Parish Centre, Groby Road, Altrincham WA14 2BP 10:30am, Busy Bees, 6 to 15 months 11:35am, Caterpillar Club, 6 weeks - 6 mths 12:40pm, Busy Bees, 6 to 15 months 1:40pm, Caterpillar Club, 6 weeks - 6 mths Evolve Gymnastics Academy, Fenside Road, Manchester, M22 10-10:45am, Baby Gym 6 months to 2 years 11:30am-12:15pm, Preschool Gymnastics, 2yrs+ 1-1:45pm, Preschool Gymnastics 2yrs+ Happy Kids, Altrincham Preschool Playgroup, St Georges Parish Hall, Church Walk, Altrincham 9:10am-3:30pm Little Superstars, All Saints Church Hall, Thelwall 10-10:50am, Multi-Sports Little Superstars, Whittle Hall Community Centre, Warrington 11-11:50am, Ballet These Mums Do Fitness, Worthington Park, Sale 9:30-10:30am These Mums Do Fitness, Online 45 min all abilities class 7:45pm Tots Play Sale, Sale Dojo, Doveston Road, Sale 9:30 Action Tots 10:30 Social Tots, 9 months to 2 years + 11:30 Discovery Tots, 2 to 8 months Trident Taekwon-Do Academy, Sale Rugby Club, Whitehall Road, Sale 4-4:45pm, Kubz Classes (ages 3 to 6) Tumbletots, Altrincham FC Community Sports Hall, Moss Lane, Hale, Altrincham 9:30-10:15am, Walking - 2 Years 10:30-11:15am, 2 - 3 Years 11:25am-12.10pm, 3 Years - School Age builds in your arms Bonding To book your first class call 0161 928 6385 waterbabies.co.uk

28 raring2go.co.uk 29 Raring2go! UNDER 5s Raring2go! UNDER 5s WEDNESDAY Adventure Babies, Chorlton Central Church, Barlow Moor Road, Chorlton 9:45-10:30am, Babies and toddlers 0-2 yr olds 11-11:45am, Babies 0 - 12 months 12:15-1pm, Mixed ages 0 - 4 year olds Bloom South Manchester, Westleigh Parish Centre, Groby Road, Altrincham 10:15am, Busy Bees, 6 months to 15 months 11:20am, Caterpillar Club, 6 weeks to 6mths 12:25pm, Busy Bees, 6 months to 15 months Evolve Gymnastics Academy, Fenside Road, Manchester, M22 10-10:45am, Preschool Gymnastics 2 yrs+ 11:30am-12:15pm, Preschool Gymnastics 2 yrs+ 1-1:45pm, Preschool Gymnastics 2 yrs+ Happy Kids, Altrincham Preschool Playgroup, St Georges Parish Hall, Church Walk, Altrincham 9:10am-3:30pm Kidslingo Spanish, online classes 5:15pm, 4-8 years Little Superstars, Lilac Road Scout Hut, Lilac Road, Hale, Altrincham 9:30-10:20am, Multisports Tennis Tykes, West Heaton Tennis Club, Princes Road, Sk4 3NQ 9:30-10.15am (2-4 yrs) Tennis Tykes, Hale Tennis Club, Park Avenue, Hale WA15 9DL 1:45-2.30pm, 2-4 yrs Tennis Tykes, Stamford Park Tennis Courts/ Total Fitness, Altrincham 4pm-4:45pm, 4-6 yrs 4:45-5:30pm, 6-8 yrs These Mums Do Fitness, Stamford Park 10-11am, Mum and Baby class These Mums Do Fitness, Sale High School 7:45- 8:45pm, Ladies only Tots Play Sale, Sale Dojo, Doveston Road, Sale 9:30am, Action Tots, 2.5 to 4 years 10:30am, Social Tots, 9 months to 2 years + 11:30am, Discovery Tots, 2 to 8 months Trident Taekwon-Do Academy, Sale Rugby Club, Whitehall Road, Sale 4-4:45pm, Kubz Classes (ages 3 to 6) Water Babies, The Marriott Hotel, Hale Barns, 10:30am-1:30pm THURSDAY Evolve Gymnastics Academy, Fenside Road, Manchester, M22 9:30-10:15, Preschool Gymnastics 2 years + 10:30am-12pm, Soft Play Open Gym, ages 6 months + Happy Kids, Altrincham Preschool Playgroup, St Georges Parish Hall, Church Walk, Altrincham 9:10am-12:10pm Kicks Dance, Holy Cross Church, Timperley 9:45-10:15am Kicks Tots class, 18mths - 3yrs Little Superstars, Maple Lodge Guide Hut, Lymm 1:15-2pm, Little Superstars Ballet Phonics Bear, Antz In Your Pantz Playcentre, Timperley 1-2pm, 2-5 years Rhythm and Rhyme, Explore and Play, 21 Stanley Square, Sale 10am, Pre walking class 11am, Walking & over (Younger siblings welcome. Free until 6 months, only half price after 6 months) Trident Taekwon-Do Academy, Sale Rugby Club, Whitehall Road, Sale 4-4:45pm, Kubz Classes (ages 3 to 6) Tots Play, Sale Dojo, Doveston Road, Sale 9:30am, Social Tots, 9 months to 2 years + 10:30am, Action Tots, 2.5 to 4 years Tumbletots, Altrincham FC Community Sports Hall, Moss Lane, Hale, Altrincham 9:30am-10:15am, Walking - 2 Years 10:30-11:15am, 2 - 3 Years 11:25am-12.10pm, 3 years - School Age 12:30-1:15pm, 6 months - Walking Water Babies, The Marriott Hotel, Hale Barns 10am-1pm FRIDAY Happy Kids, Altrincham Preschool Playgroup, St Georges Parish Hall, Altrincham 9:10am-12:10pm Happy Kids Altrincham, Forest School Sessions, St Georges Parish Hall, Church Walk, Altrincham 9:10am to 12:10pm, For 2-4 year olds Kidslingo Spanish, Antz in your Pantz, Timperley 10-10:40am, 18 months –4 years 11-11:40am, 18 months –4 years Prerecorded classes available, 18 mths-6yrs Little Superstars, Wilmslow Leisure Centre 9:30-10:30am, Multisports 10:30-11:20am, Little Superstars Ballet Noodle Performance Arts, Altrincham Football Club, Moss Lane 4-4:30pm, Ballet Tots walking to 3 years 4-5pm, Performing Arts 3-5yrs 4:35-5:25pm, Ballet 3-5yrs 5.15-6pm, Street Dance 5-7yrs Phonics Bear, Tesco Extra, Manor Road, Altrincham 9:45-10:45am Tennis Tykes (Didsbury), Wythenshawe Park tennis courts/Scout Hut, Parrswood 9:30-10:15am, 2-4 yrs 10:15-11am, 2-4 yrs These Mums Do Fitness, Worthington Park, Sale 9:30-10:30am, post natal class Trident Taekwon-Do Academy, Sale Rugby Club, Whitehall Road, Sale 4-4:45pm, Kubz Classes (ages 3 to 6) Tots Play, Sale Dojo, Doveston Road, Sale 9:30am, Action Tots, 2.5 to 4 years 10:30am, Social Tots, 2.5 to 4 years 11:30am, Action Tots, 2.5 to 4 years Tumbletots, Altrincham FC Community Sports Hall, Moss Lane, Hale, Altrincham 9:30-10:15am, 2 - 3 Years 10:30-11:15am, Walking - 2 Years 11:30am-12:15pm, 6 months - Walking 12:45-1:30pm, 3 years - School Age Water Babies, Pictor Academy, Timperley, 10am-5:30pm BOOK YOUR FREE TRIAL NOW! Fun, friendly classes for children from 18 months to 11 years Email cara@kicksdance.co.uk www.kickdance.co.uk CS3349 Kicks MAN 63x44mm.indd 1 25/08/2022 16:24 ZOOM CLASSES* Mon 7am 30 min HIIT Tue 7.45pm 45 min all abilities Sat 8am 30 min HIIT Award-winning exercise classes and personal training! We know training inside out - inside and outside. Now you can choose to join our Zoom classes or pre-book our outside sessions. 1:1 Personal Training for you or a small group Contact Becca Broadbent 07525 790 704 becca@thesemumsdo.co.uk OUTS IDE ZOOM @thesemumsdo thesemumsdo.co.uk *Due to Covid 19 restrictions, all classes must be pre-booked (no more drop-in sessions). Please book your classes via bookwhen.com/thesemumsdo POST NATAL CLASSES* Mon 9.30am Davyhulme Park, Urmston Tue 9.30am Worthington Park, Sale Wed 10am Stamford Park, Altrincham ALL ABILITIES EXERCISE CLASS* Wed 7.45pm Sale Sports Club RUN CLUB* Mon 7.15pm Beginners (10 weeks) Mon 7.30pm 5k Boost (8 weeks) Mon 8pm 5k Smash (Advanced) Mon 8.15pm 5k Smash (Intermediate) Tue 7.30pm 5-10k Club (8 weeks)

30 raring2go.co.uk 31 SATURDAY Kicks Dance, St George’s Parish Centre, Altrincham 8:45-9:15am, Kicks Tots class, 18mths-3yrs 9:25-9:55am, Preschool class, 3&4 yrs 11:05-11:50am, Reception class, 4&5 yrs Stagecoach Altrincham, Bowdon Preparatory School, Altrincham (4-6 yrs) 8:45-10:15am 11am-12:30pm 12:45-2:15pm Tennis Tykes (Didsbury), Wythenshawe Park tennis courts/Scout Hut, Parrswood 9:15-10am, 4-8 yrs Tennis Tykes, Hale Tennis Club, Park Avenue, Hale WA15 9DL 11:00-11:45am, 2-4 yrs 11:45-12:30pm, 2-4 yrs These Mums Do Fitness, Online, 30 min HIIT class 8am Tumbletots, All Saints Church Hall, Hale Road, Hale Barns, Altrincham 9:00-9:45am, Walking – 2 years 9:55-10.40am, 2 - 3 years 10:55-11:35am, 3 Years – school age 11:50-12:50pm, Gymbobs, school age–7yrs Water Babies, Pictor Academy, Timperley 8am-4:30pm SUNDAY Trident Taekwon-Do Academy, Sale Rugby Club, Whitehall Road, Sale 3-3:45pm, Kubz Classes (ages 3 to 6) Water Babies, Pictor Academy, Timperley 8:30am-3pm Water Babies, The Marriott Hotel, Hale Barns 9am-1pm Raring2go! UNDER 5s Raring2go! UNDER 5s Find us at St George's Parish Centre, Church Walk, Altrincham, WA14 4TT Call 07837273357 happykidsaltrincham.co.uk Indoor/Outdoor Free-flow play areas Early Years Teacher All-season Forest School Morning, Afternoon & Full Day Sessions Child-led Learning From 18 months - 5 years Happy Kids, Altrincham Preschool Playgroup is a well established (since 1995), safe and homely preschool playgroup nestled in a leafy and quiet spot just behind St George’s Church. We offer Ofsted Outstanding childcare and education for children aged from 18 months to 5 years. With a maximum of 40 children on roll and a team of 6 qualified Early Years’ Educators, we ensure that every child receives excellent care and attention. We are passionate about promoting children’s learning through play and nature. Using free flow play and in the moment planning we allow the children’s confidence to grow unhindered and provide learning opportunities tailored to their individual interests. Our experienced and wellqualified team works sensitively with each child to scaffold their unique learning journey to the next level of development. Not only do we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) here at Happy Kids, we have also written our own unique Happy Kids’ curriculum which includes 9 goals focused on different aspects of our ethos – from learning self help skills to developing a love of the outdoors to using a needle and thread – and all of which link back to the EYFS. This carefully drawn curriculum, along with regular parent review meetings and strong parent partnerships, ensures that our children enjoy their first steps into education whilst at the same time building a firm foundation for their future learning. Along with the EYFS and Happy Kids Curriculum, each staff member has their own specialist area, covering SEND, Communication, Emotional Wellbeing, Forest School & Outdoor Learning, STEM and Woodworking. Interested in a place for your child? We have a few spaces left for this academic year – contact us on 07837 273357 or hello@happykidsaltrincham.co.uk to arrange a visit or for more information visit our website www.happykidsaltrincham.co.uk We also run a drop-in Stay and Play Mums and Toddler group – Happy Tots – on Mondays, 10am to 11.30am, £2 per family, up to 3 years. Start your week off with a relaxed coffee and chat, and ask the staff about Happy Kids while you are there!

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