BOURNEMOUTH Talbot Heath School page 23 OPEN MORNING Talbot Heath Independent School for Girls aged 3-18 Book at talbotheath.org/openday Kindergarten, Pre-Prep & Junior Friday 3rd March 2023 JASS Studios page 20 Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre page 5 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk SPRING 2024 Liberty’s Owl, Raptor & Reptile Centre Visit the New Forest’s largest collection of birds of prey! libertyscentre.com Nr Ringwood, BH23 3EA Charity number: 1168530
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 2 raring2go.co.uk admissions@biglittle.biz | 01202 434499 biglittletheatreschool biglittle.biz DETAILS & ENROLMENTS BOURNEMOUTH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS BH8 9QA Mon 29 JuL - FRI 2 AUG 2024 or MON 5 - SAT 9 AUG 2024 Minis £163 5 day course Juniors £179 5 day course Let’s create a whole musical in just 5 days on this brilliant musical theatre summer school. MINIS reception - year 3 JUNIORS year 3 - year 6 AUDITION • REHEARSE • PERFORM IN A WEEK! Musical A BIGLITTLE THEATRE SCHOOL SUMMER SCHOOL
3 Talbot Heath Independent School for Girls aged 3-18 THINK BIG Named as one of the most innovative and influential independent schools in the country. (i25 Excellence in Education Awards 2019) Like to know more? See page 23 for more information. www.talbotheath.org | Search @TalbotHeathSch Raring2go! WELCOME Welcome, Ласкаво просимо, Witamy to your Spring magazine! Become a Raring2go Website Member E-newsletter emailed monthly with latest offers & events Download vouchers & save £££s Access all our online competitions with great prizes to be won Join today by visiting www.raring2go.co.uk Copyright © 2024 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! in Bournemouth. Email bournemouth@raring2go.co.uk Ph: 07825558389. 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. After 7 amazing years that have been both rewarding and fun, it will be time soon for me to pass on the baton of Raring2go Bournemouth Editor. BUSINESS FOR SALE Could you be the next Raring2go Bournemouth Editor? Find out more on page 31!
4 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON Colour Fest 2 Mile Fun Run in partnership with UK Trail Running Festival diverseabilities.org.uk/colourrun Get your colourful outfits at the ready, limber up, and join us for a two mile fun run in the spectacular setting of St. Giles House. Spring Flower Workshop 27 MARCH The Beehive, Manor Avenue, BH12 4LB diverseabilities.org.uk/springflowers Hosted by The Academy of Floristry 6PM - 9PM Let your creativity bloom and craft your very own Easter floral masterpiece! LEGO WALK SATURDAY 25 MAY FROM 11AM @ GATHER, DOLPHIN SHOPPING CENTRE You’ve heard of a fire walk, now try your luck at a LEGO Walk! diverseabilities.org.uk/lego
5 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON All your children’s favourite fun fair rides will be back at the Family Fun Land in Littledown Park for the Easter Holidays. From Friday 29th March, through to Sunday 14th April, you can enjoy family rides, crazy golf and meet the dinosaurs! Session times are 12-2pm, 2-4pm & 4-6pm. A 2 hour wristband is just £9.99 each (over 65s £5 each) and you can find your £1.99 off coupon on the back page of this magazine. Find Family Fun Land competitions and give aways on the Raring2go Bournemouth Facebook page and our website www.raring2go.co.uk/ bournemouth (Click on the ‘Save & Win’ tab!) Family Fun Land Easter Special Avon Tyrrell Easter Trail! Hop into the forest and take part in Acon Tyrrell’s Easter trail, they’ve got lots of egg-citing activities planned to keep you and all the family entertained. Each session is 2 hours long and you can book your 2-hour time slot. On the day you can enjoy: Climbing, Archery, Problem Solving, Challenge Course, Bushcraft, Pioneering, Outdoor Games, Face painter, Outdoor crafts, Raffle, Café Explore. Easter treat included. Book your 2 hour time slot online now! www.avontyrrell.org.uk
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 6 raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 7 Easter Egg Hunts: 29th March – 1st April (9.30am – 5pm) Easter wouldn’t be complete without Farmer Palmer’s famous Egg Hunts! You can search for hundreds of mini chocolate eggs hidden in their special egg- hunting field. But that’s not all—keep your eyes peeled for the GOLDEN TICKET! Each day, you can discover 25 golden tickets, and you can exchange one for a BIG chocolate egg at the Gift Shop. The Egg Hunts occur daily at 2.30 pm, and there’s no extra charge to participate—simply pay for your admission. While you enjoy the Easter festivities, Farmer Palmer’s kiosk will remain open, serving delicious ice creams and hot drinks to keep you refreshed. Feel free to bring your Easter basket to collect the eggs. They kindly request that adults assist in making the egg hunts hunt fair for everyone by refraining from stuffing their pockets. They greatly appreciate your cooperation! Easter Bandit Bunny Tractor Rides with Water Pistols: 29th March – 4th April & 9th – 11th April (9.30am – 5pm) Join the Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park Tractor Rides* and become a hero in the Easter Bunny’s story. Your little ones will wield water pistols to aid in rescuing the friendly bunny from those sneaky bandits. If you enjoyed their Halloween Events in the past, you won’t want to miss this thrilling adventure! Join them for an unforgettable Easter at Farmer Palmer’s, brimming with laughter, adventure, and delicious treats. Let’s collaborate to rescue the Easter Bunny and make this holiday one to remember! They also have all of their indoor and outdoor play areas, and daily animal activity timetable. If you want to find out what’s in store, keep an eye out on the Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park Facebook page. *Themed Tractor Rides are available at just £2.50 per person. Pay by cash or card on the day. Book now at: www.farmerpalmers.co.uk FARM PARK FUN!
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 8 raring2go.co.uk Find more Easter Holiday Events at raring2go.co.uk/ bournemouth & click on the ‘What’s On’ tab Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway Events Mother’s Day at Exbury Gardens 10th March Mums enjoy half price garden admission on Sunday 10th March. Enjoy a glorious spring day out walking along paths lined with camellias, magnolias and earlyflowering rhododendrons. Sit amongst swathes of yellow in Daffodil Meadow or the River of Gold, before enjoying a carvery lunch in Mr Eddy’s Restaurant (no reservation required at Mr Eddy’s). If you’d like an extra treat, enjoy a specially prepared roast lunch in the Azaelea Room or a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea. To book please telephone 02380 898737 or email exbury@thelittlekitchencompany. com Plant a pot for Mother’s Day 10th March Decorate a pot and plant it up with Spring flowers to make your Mum’s day extra special. Exbury are running drop in sessions during the morning between 10am to 1pm or afternoon 1:30pm to 4:30pm. Approximate duration 30 minutes. Pots £5 each. Exbury Easter 29th March -1st April Complete our egg-cellent Easter trail to claim your chocolatey prize! Purchase your trail sheet on arrival at the Visitor Entrance. Easter Sunday Lunch 31st Mar 2024 12:00 After taking in the spring colour and following their Easter Trail, how about joining Exbury for lunch? A delicious carvery will be available in Mr Eddy’s Restaurant. No prebooking required. Coming soon. . . Model Railway exhibition 15th & 16th June Half price Dad on Father’s Day 16th June
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 9 EXBURY A GARDEN FOR EVERYONE (INCLUDING THE DOG!) 200 acres of spectacular colour and peaceful woodland set against the backdrop of the Beaulieu River. exbury.co.uk Exbury Gardens, New Forest, Hampshire, SO45 1AZ info@exbury.co.uk | 023 8089 1203
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 10 raring2go.co.uk What's on at Monkey World Mother’s Day Sunday 10th March Mum’s get 50% off entry at Monkey World on Mother’s day! Book online at: www.monkeyworld.org Autism Friendly Day Saturday 23rd March & Saturday 27th April Monkey World opens an hour early at 9am, exclusively for visitors with autism and their families. Sensory trails, a calm room, and drop-in room for support all ensure that Monkey World is a great day out – for all. Easter at Monkey World Friday 29th March-Sunday 14th April Easter fun at Monkey World, including activity sheet for kids! Easter Eggs-travaganza! Friday 29th March – Monday 1st April FREE Easter Egg trail for kids around the park- find all the clues to lead you to a tasty chocolate treat! (While stocks last!) Go NUTS at Monkey World! Saturday 4th – Monday 6th May & Saturday 25th- Monday 27th May Every child who brings an unopened bag of nuts for the primates receives a free Monkey World badge over the bank holiday weekend. Eventures A4 standard.indd 1 17/01/2024 13:43 A WHOLE YEAR OF EVENT-URES This year Chessington World of Adventures Resort has a stacked line up of events for the whole family to enjoy. Get ready for a ‘cracking’ Easter as Eggsplorers returns for a second year on select dates from Saturday March 23 to Sunday April 14. Meet Bonnie, the Easter Bunny, before hunting for GIANT decorated Easter eggs across the Resort. Plus, burrow through the underground town of Enchanted Hollow, where the whimsical and charming animal residents are celebrating Easter for the very first time in the town’s history As well as its Theme Park, Zoo and SEA LIFE Aquarium, ALL of Chessington’s seasonal events are included in the ticket price*. Tickets start from £34pp when booked online at Chessington.com.
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12 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON Hop on over to Winchester Science Centre this March and April for the return of Boom & Bloom between Saturday 16th March and Monday 15th April, including every day during the Easter school holidays. There’ll be all the usual Science Centre fun like handson exhibits, exciting live demos and minibeast adventures, plus even more to excite children aged five to 12 and their families - all included with admission. Solve the puzzles to earn an Easter treat and find out the difference between rabbits and hares in the Eggs-travaganza Easter Hunt and discover all about the science of a childhood favourite, bubbles, in the fun-filled 20-minute live show, Bubble Trouble. Eggs-travaganza Easter Hunt Did you know that in European folklore, the Easter bunny was traditionally an Easter hare? In more modern times our seasonal friend has been described as a rabbit. Throughout history, the changing of the reference between hare and rabbit has caused confusion, with many people not even knowing there is a difference between these two species. But don’t fear, the Winchester Science Centre Eggstravaganza Easter Hunt is back and ready to clear up this confusion. Families will head off around the Centre searching for rabbits and hares. Along the way they’ll discover the differences and similarities between our furry friends whilst solving the puzzles that they find in order to grab themselves a delicious chocolate treat. Yum! Bubble Trouble – science show Over in the Science Theatre the excitement is bubbling over! Families are invited to join the audience of the brand new funfilled 20-minute live show, Bubble Trouble. Who doesn’t love a bubble? Childhoods are filled with days chasing and popping beautifully fragile, rainbow-coloured orbs. But did you know that bubbles provide us with the opportunity to study scientific concepts like elasticity, surface tension, chemistry and light. Through a double bubble of exciting experiments and dazzling demos, the Science Centre Inspirers will bring these topics to life. Audiences will find out if a person can fit inside a bubble, be amazed by the fascinating dry ice bubble phenomenon and be wowed by the exciting propane bubbles. Spring into Easter family fun during Boom & Bloom at Winchester Science Centre Free Easter hunt and science of bubbles show this March and April
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 13 All the usual Science Centre fun PLUS Eggs-travaganza Easter Hunt and Bubble Trouble live science show! Weekends and school holidays 16th March to 15th April Book now winchestersciencecentre.org SCAN TO EXPLORE
14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! NATIONAL TRUST Easter adventures with the National Trust’s Easter egg trails Jam-packed with outdoor activities and experiences every Easter trail is different. Designed with families in mind each National Trust Easter trail features 10 activity stations, showcasing the cheery signs of spring, from bursting buds, daffodils in bloom to frolicking lambs and spring birdsong. Every trail ends with a chocolate egg, or a vegan ‘Free-From’ chocolate egg, made here in the UK using cocoa from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms. Trails cost £3 per child, plus normal National Trust admission/free admission for National Trust members. To find your nearest trail visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/easter Mottisfont, Hampshire 23 March–14 April Huge lawns and majestic plane trees frame this welcoming 18th century house. In spring, the little orchard is filled with scented white cherry blossom, and jewelcoloured tulips pop from the borders. With all the feel of a classic village fete, Mottisfont’s Easter egg trail is packed with traditional and energetic springtime activities. Look out for bunny bowling, welly wanging, hoopla and other outdoor games. The trail weaves through the walled kitchen garden, across grassy paddocks and by a sparkling chalk stream where bridges provide the perfect spot for a game of Pooh Sticks. You’ll find a spring ‘selfie station’ for fun family photos too, as well as make and take craft activities. There’s plenty of space and seating for spring picnics, plus delicious ice cream varieties from local makers Jude’s. Hinton Ampner, Hampshire 29 March–14 April The gardens of Hinton Ampner, with their quirky topiary, hidden path network and panoramic views of the South Downs, are the beautiful backdrop to this year’s funfilled Easter trail. The Easter Bunny has left lots of challenges behind on their recent visit – tackle a ring toss competition in the walled garden, race like a rabbit along the old driveway and leap like a hare on the woodland loop. Put on your bunny ears and follow the twisty-turny route, taking in the tropical-themed dell, criss-crossing through the kitchen garden and navigating the lilypond on the way. The Vyne, Hampshire 23 March–14 April Set on the edge of a magnificent lake, The Vyne was once a great Tudor powerhouse regularly visited by King Henry VIII. Today, the spacious gardens, wetlands and woods are just waiting to be explored; look out for carpets of daffodils on the South Drive, and pink and white blossom in the fruit orchard. Limber up to get ready for The Vyne’s action-packed Easter challenges with a nature twist. There are 10 activity stations to locate as you roam through the gardens, with games the whole family can take part in – try spring animal’s charades, mini wheelbarrow racing, egg throwing target practice and solve an Easter egg puzzle. Stourhead, Wiltshire 23 March–14 April When Stourhead first opened in the 1740s, a magazine described it as ‘a living work of art’. The world-famous landscaped garden has at its centrepiece a magnificent lake reflecting classical temples, mystical grottoes, rare trees, spectacular rhododendrons. Enjoy family fun at Stourhead this Easter with egg-citing Easterthemed activities. Make your way around the garden, complete the trail and collect a chocolate egg at the end.
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 15 Award-winning soft play & party centre for the under 12s t: 01202 740500 | e: play@lemurlandings.co.uk by Cineworld, Tower Park, Poole, BH12 4NY The South’s favourite waterpark WWW.SPLASHDOWNWATERPARKS.CO.UK | ONLINE BOOKING ONLY GREAT VALUE PARTY PACKAGES! FANTASTIC FLUME RIDES 01202 716123 info@splashdownpoole.co.uk Tower Park, Poole BH12 4NY | FREE PARKING FULL OPENING SCHEDULE ONLINE
16 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! PLACES TO GO Indoor Bouldering & Climbing Centre Golden Gecko Climbing, Unit 34, Romsey Industrial Estate, Greatbridge Road, Romsey SO51 0HR E: info@ggclimbing.com W: ggclimbing.com T: 01794 590022 @ggclimbing @GGClimbing Opening • Mon-Fri 10am - 10pm • Saturday 10am - 7pm • Sunday 12pm - 7pm Book online or give us a call Come and give us a try! Golden Gecko_Full Page_210x148.indd 1 01/03/2017 13:38
17 Raring2go! PLACES TO GO Abbotsbury Swannery in Dorset has teamed up with Brambly Hedge to create a seaside story trail for children and families. This year’s Abbotsbury Swannery trail is based on one of the eight classic books in the Brambly Hedge collection, Sea Story. The trail takes visitors around the Swannery grounds, to discover more about the swans and the adventurous mice. Brambly Hedge is a collection of children’s stories and illustrations by author Jill Barklem. The books follow the lives and adventures of a community of self-sufficient mice who live in Brambly Hedge. With a focus on being close to nature and enjoying each season in the countryside, Brambly Hedge encourages children to explore their surroundings. Abbotsbury Swannery Manager Charlie Wheeler says: “The Brambly Hedge stories celebrate nature and encourage children to discover the outdoors. The Swannery embraces this philosophy too, making the introduction of the Sea Story trail a wonderful activity for families and visitors this season. “The Sea Story book follows the mice on a journey downstream to the sea which fits perfectly with our location. The wonderful illustrations from the books are featured in the activity booklet and around the grounds. You can almost imagine it taking place here. “With stamp points, characters to meet and an activity booklet, there is plenty to do, alongside feeding the swans and discovering more about the Swannery. “Our collaboration with Brambly Hedge is very exciting for the Swannery as we continue to look for new ways to attract visitors to our stunning West Dorset location and discover our unique Swannery, now home to the Brambly Hedge mice!” Brambly Hedge Director Peter Barklem says: “The Abbotsbury Swannery trail offers a unique experience for children and adults to immerse themselves in Sea Story, following the stream down through the trail to the Fleet and to the sea beyond. Jill was passionate about the countryside and celebrated the beauty and detail found in nature through each season. We’re looking forward to introducing Sea Story to a whole new audience and bringing the book to life in the beautiful surroundings of the Dorset countryside at Abbotsbury Swannery.” The trail will run throughout the 2024 season at the Abbotsbury Swannery. The Swannery Gift Shop will feature a selection of Brambly Hedge books, gifts, and souvenirs. The Abbotsbury Swannery is open daily from 16 March to 3 November 2024. NEW BRAMBLY HEDGE TRAIL LAUNCHING AT ABBOTSBURY SWANNERY
18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES COMING SOON: NEW BABYBALLET SEND CLASSES Babyballet Bournemouth & Poole were very excited to take part in babyballet Shine training recently and are planning to launch Shine classes across Bournemouth and Poole soon! Babyballet Shine is a SEND specific programme that allows children with SEND to be in a dance space where they can express themselves and increase their body awareness through sensory creativity and dance. They will access the class with the support of their parent/carer and be introduced to different music and props. The class is supported with the use of Makaton and a SEND structure. Classes are designed to be loads of fun and facilitate social interaction and engagement, all whilst encouraging the children to enjoy listening to the music and learning to dance. If you have any questions about Shine classes or would like to register your interest, please send a message to Miss Claire at: bournemouthandpoole@ babyballet.co.uk
19 Raring2go! TRAINMASTER Trainmaster March Highlights Tots Weekday Sessions St Leonards & St Ives Village Hall, Ringwood, 18th March 2nd Scout Hut, Wimborne, 27th March Furzebank Village Hall, Wareham, 28th March Weekend Sessions Bashley Village Hall, New Milton, 17th March Carey Hall, Wareham, 17th March Colehill Village Hall, Wimborne, 24th March More dates at: Trainmaster.co.uk/dorset Don’t forget to use code: ‘RARING2GO’ for your 10% discount on events. For local parks and great places for kids to play, go to raring2go.co.uk
20 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! LOCAL NEWS JASS S T U D I O S Dedicated to providing quality education and specialist training in a range of theatre arts for all ages and abilities. 01202 510511 468 Wimborne Road • Bournemouth • BH9 2EY email: julie@jassdance.co.uk www.jassdance.co.uk Individual and specialised tuition: • Ballet, Tap and Modern Street Dance • Musical Theatre, Singing, Drama • Commercial, Acro conditioning & Contemporary Little Stars: 2½ to starting school Pre-School funding from age 3 Classes and Workshops Classes for all ages. Auditions, Festivals and Workshops Adult classes Ballet and Tap Dancing Bring out your confidence. Learn new skills. Make new friends and have fun! FIRST SESSION FREE Call for details
21 Raring2go! CLUBS & EDUCATION Swim School A great place for swimmers to start their swimming journey! Small quality groups of no more than 8 swimmers per lane. Swim England qualified teachers. 30min lessons for stages 5+. Where: Canford School Leisure Centre When: Friday Evening Saturday Morning - Midday Sunday Morning – Midday Cost: 1 Lesson per week - £66 per block of 6 2 Lessons per week - £99 per block of 6 3 Lessons per week – £125 per block of 6 sbswimschool@swimbournemouth.uk
22 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! PRE-SCHOOL Reading Eggs is the perfect way to teach your child to read. Designed by experienced educators, children follow structured, one-on-one lessons that teach phonics, sight words and reading skills in a fun way. In fact, 91% of parents see an improvement in just a few weeks! 20 million users & 16,000 schools worldwide Proven to boost reading & math skills in just 15 minutes/day! FREE 30-DAY TRIAL 1.1 million lessons every week ✔ Used in over 193 countries readingeggs.co.uk/spring Scan QR code for 30-Day FREE trial *This 30-day free trial offer allows you to add up to 4 children. You will be charged at the end of the trial period unless you cancel before this time. You can cancel any time by selecting the ‘Cancel Subscription’ option located on the ‘Manage My Subscription’ page in your family dashboard. Offer is valid for new UK customers only, until 31st July 2024. in 30 Days Learn to Read FREE!
23 Raring2go! PRE-SCHOOL Are you looking for the best start for your daughter? Talbot Woods | Bournemouth | www.talbotheath.org | Search @TalbotHeathSch | 01202 761881 Through School 3-18 | Day and boarding | Private buses across Dorset and the New Forest Explore our early years education and care Kindergarten and Reception (Age 3-4) Discovery Sessions Weds 28th Feb, 24th April 9.30am-11.30am Kindergarten, Pre-Prep and Junior School (Age 3-11) Open Morning Thurs 14th March, 9.30am-12pm. The TH difference, take a look at what is included in our fees, £65 all day 8-3.30pm. Includes a hot healthy lunch cooked on site and all snacks. Care with ‘tea’ available until 5.30pm at a small extra cost. Flexible hours. Morning / afternoon sessions, choose your own package. Book your place www.talbotheath.org/openday EARLY YEARS FUNDING AVAILABLE Subject to eligibility • Through school specialising in nurturing girls from Kindergarten to 6th Form • Unique Early Years Curriculum • Qualified EYFS trained teachers • Forest School in our own beautiful woodland • Acres of outdoor space and sports facilities • Indoor swimming pool (timetabled lessons in Reception) • STEAM sessions (Science,Technology, Engineering, Arts, Maths) • Access to our state of the art design studio • Access to individual school iPads • Emphasis on reading, library sessions and buddy reading • One to one personalised targets and next steps • Interactive phonics programme from age 3, giving a confident start in Reception • Daily communication with our parents as well as appointments and open sessions • Weekly French and Music sessions • Topic linked trips, transport in our own minibuses Talbot Heath Independent School for Girls aged 3-18 New! Family and Toddler Group, a hive of activity for 0-4 years. talbotheath.org/honeybees
24 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! EDUCATION 1 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! On each day of the challenge schools compete to record the greatest proportion of their pupils walking, wheeling, scooting, and cycling to school. Sustrans are delivering the challenge with headline sponsors Schwalbe Tyres UK, to make active travel the easiest choice for everyone. Since data collection for the challenge began in 2011, a staggering 23.9 million miles (1) have been travelled by pupils taking over 15.9 million active travel journeys to school. That equates to around 200 trips to the moon, or over 1,900 journeys around the Earth (1), saving 12,700 tonnes of CO2 polluting the air on the school run, from 31.7 million car journeys had the participants been driven to and from school (1). Just under 2.7million active journeys to 1,862 participating schools took place during the 2023 challenge, saving an estimated 1,890 tonnes of CO2 emissions if the journeys logged had otherwise been made by car (2). Xavier Brice, CEO at Sustrans, said: 15 years of the Big Walk and Wheel challenge Sustrans Big Walk and Wheel is celebrating its 15th year as the UK’s largest inter-school active travel challenge from 11- 22 March 2024. 1. These figures are an estimation only, and depend on a number of assumptions and national or regional averages. 2. Based on approximations of assumed modes of travel. "For 15 years, millions of pupils across the UK have enjoyed taking part in the Sustrans Big Walk and Wheel by walking, wheeling and cycling to school with friends and family…and winning prizes along the way! “The challenge shows how people of all ages want to travel actively. Parents save money by not having to drive and children get to be out and about exploring their world.This gives our children healthy habits they can take with them into adulthood.”
25 Raring2go! EDUCATION Stokewood Road | Bournemouth | Tel: 01202 292011 admissions@stmartinsschool.net | stmartinsschool.net St Martin’s is a friendly, independent school in the heart of Bournemouth, where small classes and individualised teaching help children discover their talents and achieve their best. Education with heart Average class size of 12, capped at 18 Specialist subject teachers Traditional values Excellent 11+ results & academic attainment Celebrating 110 years in 2024 A family feel and a culture of kindness Bikeability Family is a training course to help people cycle together and complements the cycle training for children and adults which BCP Council already offer in this area. It enables families, or friends with children to plan enjoyable group rides, consider switching from driving to cycling the school run and feel more confident to support their children to become capable cyclists. Whether you are relative novices to cycling or you all ride already but would like advice on specific routes your instructor will tailor the session to meet your needs. Sessions are for up to 6 people and there needs to be at least one child (under 16) and one adult each session. All riders must be able to cycle without wobbling before taking part. Training will begin off road and move to on road once your instructor feels everyone is ready. Please be aware that where groups have very different ages or abilities, instructors need to pace training to suit the least able. There is currently a small pot of funding so these courses can be offered for free. Please email: bikeability@bcpcouncil.gov.uk for more information Bikeability Family
26 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! SPRING As the world awakens with the vibrant colours and fragrances of spring, it's the perfect time to channel our newfound energy into creative activity with your little ones. Involving children in do-it-yourself spring crafts not only nurtures their artistic abilities but also provides an outlet for fun, learning, and the joy of self-expression. 1. Flower Power Collages: Celebrate the beauty of spring blooms with flower power collages. Collect a variety of colourful petals, leaves, and blossoms, and let children arrange them imaginatively. Whether it's a floral masterpiece or an abstract creation, this activity encourages an appreciation for nature's artistry, textures and colours. 2. Egg Box Caterpillars: Turn ordinary egg boxes adorable caterpillars. Cut sections of the box, let children paint each segment, and attach googly eyes for that whimsical touch. It's a delightful way to recycle and repurpose materials which also spark the creative senses and fine motor skills. 3. Butterfly Mobiles: Capture the enchanting spirit of butterflies in a DIY mobile project. Cut butterfly shapes from coloured paper or use printable templates. Then decorate with markers, stickers or glitter and attach them to strings to hang from a wooden hoop or a branch. This craft not only encourages creativity but also introduces children to the beauty of symmetry. 4. Rainy Day Puddle Paintings: Embrace the unpredictable spring weather with a craft that celebrates rain. On a rainy day, place paper on the ground and let raindrops create unique puddle paintings. Add a splash of colour with watercolour paints or powdered drink mix for an interesting and whimsical twist. Beautiful art will be created! 5. Garden Rock Markers: Transform ordinary garden rocks into decorative plant markers. Paint the rocks with vibrant colours and add the names of herbs or flowers with acrylic paint or markers. It's a practical and charming way to involve children in gardening while personalising the family garden. 6. DIY Nature Journals: Encourage young explorers to document their springtime adventures with DIY nature journals. Provide blank notebooks and allow children to decorate the covers with drawings or collages of items they find in nature. Take the journals on outdoor walks to record observations, sketches or pressed flowers. Engaging children in DIY spring crafts not only stimulates their imagination but also provides a platform for learning about the season's natural wonders. These simple and enjoyable activities build creativity, motor skills, and appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us during this season. So, roll up your sleeves, buy crafting supplies, and let the artistic exploration begin in your home this spring. Blooms and Brushes: DIY Spring Crafts to Ignite Children's Creativity
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28 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! BIRTHDAYS Lemur Landings For the best party experience for your family book yours at Lemur Landings. Soft play, unicorn or dinosaur bear building and phaser tag parties you can even hire the whole place for the most awesome party ever. No mess, no fuss, affordable and fun. Call to book 01202 740500 or check out all the options online www.lemurlandings.co.uk Avon Tyrrell Activity Centre Have an adventurous birthday party with us! We offer outdoor activity sessions- choose from a wide variety of challenges and let our instructors lead the fun. Avon Tyrrell is the ideal environment to celebrate through adventure and discovery. No fuss, no hassle and we even have the party bags covered. Find out more at avontyrrell.org.uk | 01425 672347 | info@ukyouth.org Babyballet Babyballet parties are the perfect way to spoil your prince or princess. There’s dancing, singing, games, a choice of themes and optional extras such as a visit from Twinkle the babyballet bear!! Invitations provided. Call Miss Claire on 07915 665120 or email: bournemouthandpoole@babyballet.co.uk Golden Gecko Having a birthday? Young or Old! Let us make your day special with fun and games for you and up to 19 of your friends and family on our Auto Belay wall. Suitable for those with no experience with our instructors on hand to ensure the smooth running of everything! Come and enjoy exclusive use of our new and exciting Challenge Wall for your Birthday celebrations. We have a wall of auto-belays to challenge your guests with over 30 fun and exciting routes suitable for new and experienced climbers a like. Ph 01794 590022, www.ggclimbing.com Monkey World Have a WILD birthday at Monkey World! From £16.50 per head (minimum 6 children), educational monkey trail. Decorated eating area, party food, party bags, free invitations and unlimited time in the park with full use of our play facilities. www.monkeyworld.org JASS Studios A wonderful venue for ballerina, princess or pirate parties. A whole range of packages available in our mirrored dance studios! Contact julie@jass.uk.com for more details. BIRTHDAY PARTY DIRECTORY!
29 Raring2go! BIRTHDAYS Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park Swap stress and mess for FARMTASTIC fun including a tractor trailer ride and use of all areas of the park that are open at the time of the party. Minimum of 8 children and 1 FREE adult with every child guest. www.farmerpalmers.co.uk Rock Reef For a Birthday party to remember, RockReef has the answer with 28 climbing walls and lots of adventure activities all under one roof! All parties include 2 hours 15 minutes including a choice of food in the RockReef café and a free slide & gift voucher for the birthday child! OFF PEAK parties also now available! Visit www.rockreef.co.uk for more information. Trainmaster Parties Tammy would love to help you organise the perfect birthday party for your own little Trainmaster in Dorset. Trainmaster is a hands-on children’s play activity in a safe, secure environment. The room is filled with a giant track layout, loads of motorised trains, ride on trains, a play tent, fancy dress, books, puzzles, crafts and more! SEN Children welcomed. If you need any accomodations to make your party more comfortable, please just ask. www.trainmaster.co.uk Splashdown Waterparks HASSLE FREE BIRTHDAY PARTY FUN Great value birthday parties from just £18.00pp Turn up and take to the flumes – it really is that easy! That’s because when you book a birthday party at Splashdown we’ll provide everything, from invitations to refreshments. What’s more, our team will make sure things go swimmingly. A hassle-free kids’ birthday party? Now that really is something to celebrate! Please note our parties may not be suitable for children aged 7 and under as all members of the party must be confident on the flumes. www.splashdownwaterparks.co.uk Nikki’s Dance Parties Nikki’s children’s party service offers a variety of packages from themed choreographed dance parties to pamper-parties, discos, characters meet & greets, manned and unmanned, mascot hire service & karaoke parties. The packages come with professional DJ sound system and lighting. Also offering mini packages suitable for under 10 guests. nikkisdanceparty@gmail.com
30 raring2go.co.uk There’s just something so satisfying about cleaning when it comes to spring. But nobody wants to spend hours cleaning when there is a cleaning hack to be had! Move over Mrs Hinch, we’ve got you sorted this Spring! 1 Use Old T-Shirts to Wipe Down Mirrors When sorting clothes, set aside any old cotton T-shirts— they are excellent for giving mirrors a streak- and lint-free clean. For a chemical-free clean, mix white vinegar, distilled water, and a few drops of an essential oil. 2 Use rubber gloves to remove pet hair The easiest way to remove pet hair; rubber gloves! Don a pair of gloves and wipe down soft furnishings and carpets, with the fur sticking to the rubber. Then, wash your hands and the hair will unstick. Ta-dah! 3 Remove water rings with just a hairdryer & olive oil Get rid of dreaded water marks easily with a hairdryer and some olive oil. Blast the water ring on high heat until it begins to disappear, before rubbing a bit of olive oil on the area once the mark has gone to recondition the wood. 4 Steam clean your microwave If you’ve got stubborn food stains on the inside of your microwave, you can make them much easier to remove by steaming them first. Fill a bowl with water, white vinegar and some essential oil before turning it on for five minutes and the stains will then be much easier to clean off 5 Refresh Mattresses Sprinkle baking soda on your mattress, let it sit for a few hours to absorb odors, then vacuum it up. Rotate and flip your mattress to help maintain its shape and comfort. 6 Clean Blinds with Tongs and Microfiber Cloth Wrap microfiber cloths around the ends of a pair of kitchen tongs and secure them with rubber bands. Use this makeshift tool to clean both sides of your blinds at once. Spring Clean! 7 Remove Carpet Indentations with Ice Cubes Place ice cubes in indented areas of your carpet and let them melt completely. Once the water has evaporated, fluff up the carpet fibers with a fork or your fingers to remove the indentation. 8 Clean the bath with grapefruit The most environmentally friendly way to clean your bath! Simply cut a grapefruit in half, sprinkle it with some salt and rub it around the bath. No harsh chemicals or products needed! 9 Keep clean with cling film This is the best trick for keeping your fridge clean! Line each shelf with a layer of cling film and every week replace it with a new one. Any crumbs or spillages will be lifted and thrown away with the plastic. You can do the same with your grill and oven, using foil. 10 Disinfect sponges in the microwave Sponges can easily become dirty when doing a spring clean but you can give them a bit of a refresh by sprinkling over a small amount of lemon juice and then popping them in the microwave for two minutes. But do make sure your sponge is metal-free! Raring2go! SPRING CLEANING! 30
After 7 amazing years that have been both rewarding and fun, it will be time soon for me to pass on the baton of Raring2go Bournemouth Editor. It really is the perfect role when you’re a parent; you work with wonderful local businesses (that you’re likely a customer of yourself) and write about the things you care about. You have a work/life balance unlike anything I’ve ever had before. I’ve done every school run, been there for all the plays and not had to stress when the kids have been ill! The business has been established in Bournemouth for over 10 years and has bookings ready for future issues so you can hit the ground running. If you’re interested, get in touch at: bournemouth@raring2go.co.uk. I’m very happy to answer any questions and send you more information. You don’t need design skills, just an interest in what’s available locally for families and a love of helping people. I’m not in a rush to sell, so I’ll be continuing to produce the magazine until the right person comes along! Warm wishes, Michelle BUSINESS FOR SALE Could you be the next Raring2go Editor?
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 32 raring2go.co.uk
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