HEREFORD & WORCESTER COMPETITIONS P30 & 31 CLUBS AND CLASSES P21 WHAT’S ON THIS SPRING P6 - 14 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk SPRING 2024
2 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WELCOME Welcome to Spring! Spring is my favourite time of year - lambs and flowers are appearing daily, and as we enjoy the longer, warmer days, our local attractions open their doors again too. Some even have chocolate to give away, with Easter egg hunts and trails! You will find loads of Easter ideas in this edition, and a QR code to the most up to date local Easter event information (page 11). This edition isn’t just covering Easter though! The what’s on guide is full of things to do throughout April, May and June too! A huge THANK YOU to all the lovely local businesses appearing in this edition - the magazine wouldn’t be possible without their support. Please do let them know you saw them here - they will be delighted. Parents are always on the lookout for local clubs, classes, activities, venues, party entertainers, and service providers. We welcome the very best to appear in the next edition, so if you know of any, please do let me know, and tell them about Raring2go! We would love to help promote them in the next edition, and through the website. Sharing is caring, after all! Wishing you all a super spring! Pauline x Pauline Clark, Editor Promote your business in the summer edition - contact me today! Call Pauline on 01432 649066 Mobile 07810 349590 or email herefordandworcester@raring2go.co.uk Contents Big Walk & Wheel Challenge.................P 4 Easter Craft Activity.................................P 5 What’s on..........................................P6 - 14 The Perfect Easter Egg Hunt ...........P10 - 11 Play, Move, Thrive..................................P20 Clubs & Classes......................................P21 10 Fun Things To Do......................P22 & 23 Raring2grow! ........................................P24 Eurocamp Raring2go! Offer..................P25 Reluctant Readers - Book Reviews.......P26 Puzzle Page...........................................P28 Support For PTAs...................................P29 Competitions.................................P30 & 31 Holiday Camps - Free Day For Your Child With Team Super Sports.......................P32
3 Raring2go! 01432 358070 wyesidenursery@gmail.com www.wyesidedaynursery.co.uk Wyeside Day Nursery & Out of School Care Ltd 26 Eign Road, Hereford, HR1 2RY “Where children enjoy their learning adventure”
4 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! 1 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.”
5 Raring2go! CRAFT ACTIVITY www.raring2go.co.uk/kingstonandmerton 11 Raring2go! GET CREATIVE Step 1: With the strip of paper you are going to use for the rim, stick double sided tape along the strip. You can also use glue if that is what you have to hand. Take the four strips of paper that will form the basket and stick them down next to each other using the edge of the rim as a guide. If you are working with double sided patterned paper, you’ll work with it facing down, so the pattern you’ll want to have on the outside of the basket will be facing down. Step 2: Next, take the end of the first strip and curve it around to stick next to the last strip of paper. Repeat with all the strips and you will start to see the basket forming. Then do the same with strip 2 and continue doing so with strip 3 and 4 and you will see the basket forming. Glue rim together. Step 3: Adhere the handle to the inside of the basket. ...and fill to your liking! This article has been written by Petra Sameri, a local mum of two. Petra is an ‘Independent Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator’. All the items used for the Easter basket are available on her website www. petrascraftinkplace.blogspot. co.uk. Do have a look for all sorts of great craft ideas that you can try at home. Easter Basket This is a quick and fun little basket that is very easy to make. All you need is six strips of paper or card as follows: 4 strips: 22cm x 3cm (basket) 1 strip: 26cm x 3cm (rim) 1 strip: 26cm x 2.5cm (handle) To make a mini basket, you will need to use the following measurements: 4 strips: 15cm x 2cm (basket) 1 strip: 18cm x 2cm (rim) 1 strip: 18cm x 2cm (handle) 1 2 2
6 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON Saturday 23 March - Monday 8 April EASTER FAMILY TRAIL Pick up our special Easter trail when you visit the cathedral during the school holidays! Thursday 4 April, 12 noon MESSY CHURCH Celebrate Easter with us with an afternoon of creativity, faith and fun! Saturday 27 April, 11.30 am GUIDE TO THE ORGANS Join us for a family friendly introduction to the cathedral’s three organs! herefordcathedral.org SPRING FAMILY FUN Easter Holidays Mon 25th March - Sat 6th April* • Easter Egg Hunt • Tractor Ride • Park & Play Barns • Pony Ride Days: Tues 26th Mar & Thurs 4th Apr only. Prebook online *Closed Easter Sunday NewbridgeFarmPark.com Nr Ledbury, HR8 2QG Listings correct at time of going to press. Please check details and booking information with venues before setting out. .............................................................................. 18 March Easter Family Bingo at Ledbury Primary School HR8 2BE – come along for loads of fun for all, and great prizes at our Easter Family Bingo fundraising event. .............................................................................. 19 March Lego Club at Hereford Cathedral. Set your imagination free, with thousands of Lego bricks and hundreds of mini-figures. This is a free-to-attend club, but booking is required. www.herefordcathedral.org .............................................................................. 19 March Zog and the Flying Doctor at Swan Theatre. Zog, super keen student turned air-ambulance, still lands with a bang-crash-thump. Together with his Flying Doctor crew, Princess Pearl and Sir Gadabout, they tend to a sunburnt mermaid, a unicorn with one too many horns and a lion with the flu. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk .............................................................................. 23 March - 7 April Easter Eggstravaganza at West Midlands Safari Park. Hop into the Easter festivities at our Easter Eggstravaganza. Join the egg hunts, meet Bramble Bunny and enjoy a range of themed activities for the whole family. You’re sure to have an egg-citing time! We will be open at the earlier time of 9.30am. www.wmsp.co.uk .............................................................................. 23 March - 8 April Easter Family Trail at Hereford Cathedral. Pick up our special Easter trail when you visit during the school holidays. www.herefordcathedral.org .............................................................................. 24 March – 4 April mEGGastars Easter Treasure Hunt at Eastnor Castle. Enjoy our Eastnor mEGGastars Easter Treasure Hunt as we celebrate our 200th birthday! Find clues around the castle and grounds and hand in your entry for a chocolate treat at the end! www.eastnorcastle.com What’s on guide continues on p8
7 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON EastnorCastle Eastnor_Castle @Eastnorcastle eastnorcastle.com Visit Eastnor Our legendary Easter Treasure Hunt around the castle & grounds. Chocolate for everyone! Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1RL A Chilli Celebration! All things chilli to try and buy... Live music, bars, hot food, Chilli Eating Competition and more! A nostalgic family fun day! Line up of steam engines, vintage cars, giant garden games & vintage rides! Limited online tickets only! Book here
8 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 25 March - 6 April Newbridge Farm Park opens for some eggciting Easter fun, with loads of indoor and outdoor play, tractor rides, and our Easter Treasure Hunt. Closed Easter Sunday. www.newbridgefarmpark.com .............................................................................. 25 March – 5 April Our World From Space Family Show at Thinktank. Build the Sun, Moon, and Earth out of people to see how they move in space, discover how rockets take off, recreate the orbits of satellites, and learn how they play a big role in wildlife conservation. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk .............................................................................. 26 March Pony Ride Day at Newbridge Farm Park. We also have loads of indoor and outdoor play activities, tractor rides, and our Easter Treasure Hunt. Pony ride pre-booking is recommended. www.newbridgefarmpark.com .............................................................................. 27 March Exciting Science at Swan Theatre. Prepare to be amazed! With Fun & Fact filled experiments, watch in amazement as we recreate a volcanic eruption; turn a vacuum cleaner into a missile launcher or take aim at you with our smoke blaster! www.worcestertheatres.co.uk .............................................................................. 28 March CountryTastic at Three Counties Showground. CountryTastic is THE countryside show for children. Celebrate our Farming Heroes in 2024 and come dressed as a super hero! www.countrytastic.co.uk .............................................................................. 30 March The Ultimate Bubbles Show at The Courtyard. Join Ray, International Bubbleologist and Guinness World Record Holder, and help him in his quest to complete the bubble game and make the ultimate bubble. www.courtyard.org.uk .............................................................................. 31 March Steam Open Day at Hereford Waterworks Museum. See the engines in full-steam, enjoy some hands-on fun in the Heritage Water Park, follow the Freddy the Frog Trail, explore the WW2 exhibition, and more. Free admission for under 16’s. www.waterworksmuseum.org.uk 3 April Little Play World Easter Special at Bartestree Village Hall. 10 am – 11:30 am. Little worlds of fun, where children can play at being anything from Rockstars to Vets, and everything in between! Play sessions are aimed at children 0 – 7 years. www.littleplayworld.co.uk .............................................................................. 3 April The Gang Show at The Courtyard. Hereford’s Scouts & Guides are back with a fun-filled show for all the family, with music, dance and sketches performed by a cast age 4 upwards. www.courtyard.org.uk .............................................................................. 4 April Pony Ride Day at Newbridge Farm Park. There are loads of indoor and outdoor play activities, tractor rides, and our Easter Treasure Hunt too. Pony ride pre-booking is recommended. www.newbridgefarmpark.com .............................................................................. 5 April Escape Room at Hereford Cathedral. An immersive clue-cracking and decoding hour-long game for groups of up to 6. Be transported back to 1890, where you have been accused of embezzling money. Can you crack the clues to prove who did it? www.herefordcathedral.org .............................................................................. 5 April The Sooty Show at Swan Theatre. With buckets of audience participation and gallons of giggles, this spectacular celebration of the longest-running children’s television show in the world will delight Sooty fans old and new and is a must-see treat for the whole family. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk .............................................................................. 6 April Easter Family Rave at The Courtyard. What better way to spend your Easter than bunny hopping along to all your favourite tunes, so bring your crew and join us for another egg-cellent party full of bubbles and balloons! Dressing up is encouraged from everyone! Suitable for all ages, ear defenders for tiny people are recommended. www.courtyard.org.uk .............................................................................. 7 April Steam Open Day at Hereford Waterworks Museum. See the engines in full-steam, enjoy some hands-on fun in the Heritage Water Park, follow the Freddy the Frog Trail, explore the WW2 exhibition,
9 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON .............................................................................. 25 April Escape Room at Hereford Cathedral. An immersive clue-cracking and decoding hour-long game for groups of up to 6. Be transported back to 1890, where you have been accused of embezzling money. Can you crack the clues to prove who did it? www.herefordcathedral.org .............................................................................. 27 April Fafunia Springy Stories at The Courtyard. Springy stories is an interactive puppetry and storytelling experience based in the fairy kingdom ‘Fafunia!’ www.courtyard.org.uk .............................................................................. 30 April – 1 May There’s a Monster In My Show! at Swan Theatre. Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, as the beloved ‘Who’s in Your Book?' series makes its debut as a brand-new musical show. Expect plenty of playful fun for your littlest ones as their favourite characters come to life. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk What’s on continues on p12 and more. Free admission for under 16’s. www.waterworksmuseum.org.uk .............................................................................. 11 April Little Play World at Flip Out Hereford. The very best of both worlds! Come along to a Flip Out Stay And Play Session (10-11 am, 11.30 am-12.30 pm, 1.30-2.30 pm) and let your little ones discover Little Play World too! Little worlds of fun, where children can play at being anything from Rockstars to Vets. www.flipout.co.uk/locations/hereford .............................................................................. 13 April Morning Explorers at Thinktank. Morning Explorers is an accessibility program for autistic people and those with similar disabilities. Running on the second Saturday of each month, it offers some accessible adaptions to the museum experience, plus an optional Autism Friendly planetarium show. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk .............................................................................. 13 April Escape Room at Hereford Cathedral. An immersive clue-cracking and decoding hour-long game for groups of up to 6. Be transported back to 1890, where you have been accused of embezzling money. Can you crack the clues to prove who did it? www.herefordcathedral.org .............................................................................. 16 – 18 April Zog and the Flying Doctors at The Courtyard. Zog, super keen student turned air-ambulance, still lands with a bang-crash-thump. Together with his Flying Doctor crew, Princess Pearl and Sir Gadabout, they tend to a sunburnt mermaid, a unicorn with one too many horns and a lion with the flu. www.courtyard.org.uk .............................................................................. 17 April Escape Room at Hereford Cathedral. An immersive clue-cracking and decoding hour-long game for groups of up to 6. Be transported back to 1890, where you have been accused of embezzling money. Can you crack the clues to prove who did it, to ensure you are set free? www.herefordcathedral.org .............................................................................. 21 April Steam Open Day at Hereford Waterworks Museum. See the engines in full-steam, enjoy some hands-on fun in the Heritage Water Park, follow the Freddy the Frog Trail, explore the WW2 exhibition, and more. Free admission for under 16’s. www.waterworksmuseum.org.uk
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12 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 4 May Little Play World at Pandy Village Hall, Abergavenny. 10 am – 11.30 am. Little worlds of fun, where children can play at being anything from Rockstars to Vets, and everything in between! Play sessions are aimed at children 0 – 7 years. www.littleplayworld.co.uk .............................................................................. 5 & 6 May Eastnor ChilliFest at Eastnor Castle. All things Chilli to try and buy. With live music, entertainment, bars, hot food, a Children’s Cookery School, Chilli Eating Competition, and Cookery Demonstrations. www.eastnorcastle.com .............................................................................. 6 May All Stars Family Fun Day at All Star Activity Centre, Herefordshire. Try out some new outdoor activities – adults can try them too on our Family Fun Days. From quads to laser tag, zorbs and archery, there is so much to join in with. Our Dinosaur Adventure is suitable for anyone from age 2 to 105. This really is a day out for all the family, and adults in the family party are FREE! www.allstarcamps.co.uk .............................................................................. 9 May Little Play World at Flip Out Hereford. The very best of both worlds! Come along to a Flip Out Stay And Play Session (10-11 am, 11.30 am-12.30 pm, 1.30-2.30 pm) and let your little ones discover Little Play World too! Little worlds of fun, where children can play at being anything from Rockstars to Vets, and everything in between! www.flipout.co.uk/locations/hereford ......................................................................... 12 May Steam Open Day at Hereford Waterworks Museum. See the engines in full-steam, enjoy some hands-on fun in the Heritage Water Park, follow the Freddy the Frog Trail, explore the WW2 exhibition, and more. Free admission for under 16’s. www.waterworksmuseum.org.uk .............................................................................. 21 & 22 May Spot’s Birthday Party at Swan Theatre. Spot is having a very special birthday party and you’re invited! With party hats, songs, dancing and lots of interactive party games, this is going to be the best birthday party ever! Based on the beloved Eric Hill classic Happy Birthday Spot, this brand-new adaptation brings your favourite pup and his friends to life in an interactive and accessible show suitable for ages 2 plus and their grown-ups. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk .............................................................................. 26 May Steam Open Day at Hereford Waterworks Museum. See the engines in full-steam, enjoy some hands-on fun in the Heritage Water Park, follow the Freddy the Frog Trail, explore the WW2 exhibition, and more. Free admission for under 16’s. www.waterworksmuseum.org.uk .............................................................................. 26 & 27 May Eastnor Steam & Vintage. Enjoy a nostalgic day out at Eastnor Castle with an impressive lineup of steam engines, vintage cars, giant garden games, vintage carousel, model steam engine rides, chair swings, nostalgic dance workshops and more! A lovely day out for all the family. www.eastnorcastle.com .............................................................................. 27 May All Stars Family Fun Day at All Star Activity Centre, Herefordshire. Try out some new outdoor activities – adults can try them too on our Family Fun Days. From quads to laser tag, zorbs and archery, there is so much to join in with. Our Dinosaur Adventure is suitable for anyone from age 2 to 105. This really is a day out for all the family, and adults in the family party are FREE! www.allstarcamps.co.uk .............................................................................. 28 May – 2 June The Three Little Pigs at Swan Theatre. The Worcester REP returns to bring The Three Little Pigs from sty to stage! Packed full of playful songs and passionate pigs, this intimate introduction to theatre in our Swan Studio is perfect for your little ones, aged 3-6. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk .............................................................................. 31 May Rapunzel at Swan Theatre. Scott Ritchie Productions proudly presents this exciting and fun tangled musical adventure. With a wicked witch, a feisty heroine, a tap dancing horse and a host of adventures, Rapunzel promises to be a vibrant take on a classic and much loved story. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk ..............................................................................
13 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON BOX OFFICE 01432 340555 courtyard.org.uk In partnership with Tuesday 16 - Thursday 18 April Wednesday 19 & Thursday 20 June ZOG & HH 2024 half page.indd 1 14/02/2024 11:57:37 2 June Family Fun Day at Eastnor Castle. Family fun with garden games, and a zip-wire on the Valley Lawn. www.eastnorcastle.com .............................................................................. 4 June Bring Your Own Baby at Swan Theatre. Join us for an afternoon of hilarious comedy, where you can relax and have a good laugh at the best comedians in the UK, without needing childcare! There's buggy parking, baby changing and more so that you can take some time for yourself and just be entertained. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk ...................................................................... 9 June Steam Open Day at Hereford Waterworks Museum. See the engines in full-steam, enjoy some hands-on fun in the Heritage Water Park, follow the Freddy the Frog Trail, explore the WW2 exhibition, and more. Free admission for under 16’s. www.waterworksmuseum.org/ ......................................................................... 9 June Animal Encounters at Eastnor Castle. See and learn about a fascinating range of exotic animals. www.eastnorcastle.com 13 June Little Play World at Flip Out Hereford. The very best of both worlds! Come along to a Flip Out Stay And Play Session (10-11 am, 11.30 am-12.30 pm, 1.30-2.30 pm) and let your little ones discover Little Play World too! Little worlds of fun, where children can play at being anything from Rockstars to Vets. www.flipout.co.uk/locations/hereford .............................................................................. 11 & 12 June Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book at Swan Theatre. Based on the original book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. Come and delve into a range of books with Charlie Cook, brought to life with puppetry and enchanting songs. Suitable for ages 3 – 8. www.worcestertheatres.co.uk .............................................................................. 15 June Little Play World at Titley Village Hall, Kington. Little worlds of fun, where children can play at being anything from Rockstars to Vets, and everything in between! Play sessions are aimed at children 0 – 7 years. www.littleplayworld.co.uk What’s on guide continues on p14
14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 16 June Archery at Eastnor Castle. ‘Have-a-go’ Archery sessions for adults and children. www.eastnorcastle.com .............................................................................. 19 & 20 June Horrible Histories – Rotten Royals at The Courtyard. So Horrible Histories is back in 2024 with revolting rulers and mad monarchs from Britain’s barmy past! It’s history with the nasty bits left in! www.courtyard.org.uk .............................................................................. 23 June Midsummer Fun Day at Eastnor Castle. Midsummer fun for all with local suppliers and games aplenty. www.eastnorcastle.com .............................................................................. 29 June Fun Dog Show at Ledbury Primary School HR8 2BE. Join us from 11:30am, and bring your pooch along too! There is a class for every dog and prizes for all classes. Waggiest Tail. Best Trick. Prettiest Female. Most Handsome Male. Best Rescue. Golden Oldie. Cutest Puppy. Dog the judge would like to take home. Best in Show (winners from all classes). It’s just £2 per class to enter your beloved 4-legged friend. All proceeds raised going to the Ledbury Primary PTA, and Worcestershire Animal Rescue. .............................................................................. 30 June Steam Open Day at Hereford Waterworks Museum. See the engines in full-steam, enjoy some hands-on fun in the Heritage Water Park, follow the Freddy the Frog Trail, explore the WW2 exhibition, and more. Free admission for under 16’s. www.waterworksmuseum.org.uk .............................................................................. 30 June Duck Herding at Eastnor Castle. Enjoy some duck herding displays, with audience participation! www.eastnorcastle.com Head to our website and localise for even more events happening near you!
15 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON The Three Little Tue 28 May - Sun 2 June BOOK NOW! worcestertheatres.co.uk 01905 611 427 Discover the history of Hereford Cathedral with one of our family trails! Explore the cathedral with our Family Guide, discover what is hidden Through the Keyhole or search for the secret Dragons, Beasts and Pilgrims. All of our trails are FREE - pick one up from the Welcome Desk. herefordcathedral.org FREE FAMILY FUN AT HEREFORD CATHEDRAL Hereford's ONLY Adventure Indoor Inflatable Arena! Phone: 01432 370 500 Address: Unit 21 Mortimer Trading Centre Mortimer Road, Hereford HR4 9SP Explore thrilling attractions like Basher Forest, Mega Slide, Ninja Wipeout and more, offering endless entertainment for everyone! Let your imagination run wild as you create cherished memories with your friends and family! Get active and enjoy exhilarating fun that's suitable for all ages - from little ones to teens, parents and grandparents! Join us at Flip Out Hereford and unleash the excitement! Follow us on Scan here to book! Free parking
16 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! PLACES TO GO Hereford Gift Card @HerefordCityLife Follow Us Brought to you by Hereford BID The Perfect Gift Every time Accepted in over 100 shops, cafes, pubs, restaurants and entertainment venues across Hereford City Centre. Trails -What’s On - Offers Events - Competitions Search www.HerefordCityLife.co.uk Come & Explore Hereford Funded by: birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank • • 4k Planetarium • Outdoor Science Garden
17 Raring2go! PLACES TO GO KIDS 11 & UNDER GO FREE Book your child in for an adventurous and active day! Each day includes 3 outdoor activities, for ages 8-16. £38 per child HOLIDAY CAMP Drop off 9.30am - 10.00am Pick up 3.30pm - 4.00pm Childcare vouchers accepted
18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON • Award-winning homes and customer service • Open countryside on your doorstep • Higher specification than other housebuilders • Solar panels and air source heat pumps on every home *Terms & conditions apply Freemanhomes.co.uk/terms-conditions ENERGY-EFFICIENT EPC A-RATED HOMES Save money on bills and reduce your household carbon footprint More space, more style and an unbeatable specification Best Small Housebuilder Find Freeman Homes in Credenhill, St Weonards, Fownhope & Newnham-on-Severn Reserve now and we’ll fix your mortgage rate at 2% for 2 years!* Limited availability - Secure today PROUD TO BE DIFFERENT 01594 543 354 www.freemanhomes.co.uk SHOW HOME NOW OPEN
Freeman Homes presents energy-efficient, A-rated homes on trailblazing sustainable developments in Herefordshire. According to the latest government figures covering the three months to the end of December 2023, only 5% of new homes in England achieved an Energy Efficiency Rating of ‘A’. This places the EPC A-rated houses built by family-run developer Freeman Homes in a surprisingly small and soughtafter selection of properties that benefit from significantly lower running costs and a reduced carbon footprint. The company has a proven track record for designing beautiful new homes that prioritise space, style, and sustainability to deliver energy-efficient living in picturesque village locations. The EPC A-rated properties on Freeman Homes’ Herefordshire developments in the villages of Credenhill, St Weonards and Fownhope feature marketleading renewable technologies that have been selected for their efficiencies and ease of use. Roof-integrated solar PV panels are low profile for a sleek look; and compact air source heat pumps, coupled with underfloor heating, consume very little energy and eliminate the need for radiators. The homes also include electric car charging points, water reduction features, and are built with the provision for a battery pack to store surplus generated energy. Research carried out by the Home Builders Federations published in their July 2023 “Watt a Save” report highlighted that on average, a new build home uses 65% less energy than an older property, cutting monthly energy bills by over £183, totalling over £2,200 a year. The research is based on mostly B-rated homes, so just imagine what an A-rated property could achieve in savings! Freeman Homes have a reputation for implementing a wide raft of environmental initiatives across their developments that include landscaped green open spaces, ecology planting, wildlife-friendly external lighting, hedgehog-friendly fencing, nesting boxes, and bee bricks. Creating sustainable communities that support wellbeing and wildlife is central to what the company stands for. 01594 543 354 sales@freemanhomes.co.uk www.freemanhomes.co.uk ENERGY-EFFICIENT EPC A-RATED HOMES
Raring2go! FEATURE In a world where screens often take centre stage in our children's lives, the call for promoting physical activity has never been more critical. As parents, we hold the key to unlocking a healthier, more vibrant future for our kids. Let's delve into why fostering a culture of movement is crucial and explore practical ways to make physical activity an integral part of our children's daily lives. Physical activity is not just about exercise; it's a cornerstone of healthy development. Regular movement can act to enhance cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles and bones, and contributes to better mental well-being. Beyond the physical benefits, active play also builds crucial social skills, such as teamwork as well as a genuine feeling of personal accomplishment. As parents we have the opportunity to be the architects of an environment that really encourages our children to move. Start by incorporating family activities that revolve around physical play – be it a weekend bike ride, a nature hike or a simple game of tag in the back garden. These shared experiences not only promote physical health but also strengthen family bonds. Consider the power of play in everyday life. Encourage unstructured playtime, allowing your children the freedom to explore and invent games on their own. Whether it's dancing to their favorite tunes, building forts, or engaging in imaginative play, these activities not only promote physical fitness but also ignite creativity. Limit screen time to make room for active pursuits. The sedentary nature of excessive screen use has been linked to various health concerns. Establish screen-time boundaries and replace some of that time with activities that get your children moving. The benefits extend beyond physical health, positively impacting academic performance and emotional well-being. Be a role model for an truly active lifestyle. Children are more likely to adopt healthy habits when they see their parents making physical activity a priority. Make exercise a family affair, showing them that staying active is not a chore but a joyful part of daily life. By embracing and promoting physical activity in our children's lives, we sow the seeds for a healthier, more resilient generation. Let's encourage them to play, move, and thrive, cultivating habits that will serve them well throughout their lives. Together, as parents, we can build a future where our children's vitality knows no bounds. Play, Move, Thrive: Creating a Culture of Physical Activity in Our Children 20 raring2go.co.uk
21 Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Creative Courage For Life® Stagecoach Performing Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Performing Arts Limited. Singing, dancing and acting classes for year-olds Helping children believe they can do anything 01432 820818 St. Mary's RC High School, HR1 4DR www.stagecoach.co.uk/hereford Stagecoach Hereford 4 - 18
22 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! Picnic in the Park: Pack a delicious picnic and head to a nearby park. Enjoy the fresh spring air, play some outdoor games like frisbee or badminton, and relax on a blanket surrounded by nature. Bike Ride Adventure: Explore local bike trails or ride through your neighbourhood together. Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the budding flowers and greenery while getting some exercise as a family. DIY Bird Feeders: Make simple bird feeders using pinecones, peanut butter, and birdseed. Hang them in your back garden or a nearby park, and watch as birds come to enjoy the tasty treats. Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items to find in nature, such as specific flowers, leaves, or even certain types of insects. Go on a scavenger hunt as a family and see who can find everything on the list first. Outdoor Movie Night: Set up a makeshift outdoor cinema in your back garden. Use a projector and a white sheet, and enjoy a family movie night under the stars. Don't forget the popcorn! 10 fun things to do as
23 Raring2go! Plant a Family Garden: Start a small garden together with flowers, herbs or vegetables. It's a great way to teach children about nature and responsibility while enjoying the process of watching plants blossom and grow. Pavement Chalk Art: Head to your driveway or a local park with colourful pavement chalk. Encourage creativity and create vibrant spring-themed artwork on the pavement. Make sure you take a selfie before a spring rain shower washes your creation away! Fly a Kite: Take advantage of the spring winds and fly a kite in an open field. It's a simple yet enjoyable activity for the whole family. It’s still one of those things that makes us stare in wonder! Go on a Nature Walk: Take a leisurely stroll through a nature reserve or on a hiking trail. Bring a guidebook to identify different plants and animals and take the time to appreciate the beauty of the changing season. Spring is such a lovely time to be outdoors so make the most of it! Outdoor Yoga or Exercise Session: Find a peaceful spot in a park or your back garden and practice yoga as a family. Alternatively, engage in a fun and energetic outdoor exercise session, such as a family friendly workout or a game of ultimate frisbee. a family this Spring
24 raring2go.co.uk Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Family gardening fun this Springtime Planting Adventures: Embark on exciting planting projects, choosing colourful flowers, aromatic herbs, or easy-to-grow vegetables that capture children's interest. Bug Safari Hunt: Transform your garden into a bug safari. Explore together, identifying insects and their roles in the garden ecosystem. Decorative Plant Markers: Craft decorative plant markers using lolly-pop sticks, letting children unleash their creativity while learning about plant identification. Seed Bombs Creation: Form seed bombs with a mix of clay, compost, and wildflower seeds. Launching these 'bombs' spreads beauty and teaches about seed dispersal. Butterfly-Friendly Blooms: Choose nectar-rich flowers that attract butterflies. Witnessing these colourful insects brings delight and adds an engaging educational touch. Garden Art: Engage in garden art projects. Paint rocks colourfully to use as bright garden decorations or as the chimes of a hand made wind chime set. Weeding Challenges: Turn weeding into a challenge. See who can pull out the most weeds while learning about the importance of regular garden maintenance. Vegetable Harvesting: As vegetables mature, involve children in the exciting harvest process. Getting them involved helps to create a connection to food and nature. A connection that will stay with them forever. Composting Creations: Create a mini composting station. Teach your children the importance of recycling kitchen scraps and witnessing the magic of turning household waste into nutrient-rich soil. They’ll be amazed at what the soil goes on to nurture. Keep A Garden Diary: Maintain a garden journal. Documenting observations and experiences will enhances a child’s understanding of plant growth and the changes it goes through over time. Family gardening fun during spring is a delightful and very simple way to bond, learn and embrace the wonder of nature. These interactive activities not only create a love for gardening in children but also cultivate valuable skills and knowledge. Sow the seeds of curiosity and teamwork with your children and nurture not just plants but a deep appreciation for the beauty and simplicity of the natural world in your very own back garden! Raring2grow! Outdoor fun for budding green-fingers Springtime opens a world of family gardening fun, providing an opportunity for hands on learning where lasting memories are created. Here's a brief guide to enjoyable gardening activities to do as a family.
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26 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! BOOKS Bookseller, Deborah from Kenilworth Books shares the wonderful accessible books from publisher Barrington Stoke. Information for Grown-Ups: These books have a dyslexia-friendly layout, typeface and paper so that even more readers can enjoy them as well as enabling dyslexic parents to enjoy the books with younger children. WE ARE NOT FROGS! by Michael Morpurgo, Illustrated by Sam Usher (Age 0+) The frogs always beat the toads at long jump but the toads don’t mind – anything for a quiet life. But then the children and Mutt the dog come in search of some good jumpers, and the toads see an opportunity to get their own back! SHEEP SCHOOL (Little Gem) by Ross Montgomery illustrated by Marisa Morea (Age 5+) William the lamb is the worst pupil in Sheep School. He’s always in trouble as he loves to sing and dance and just can’t stand still. But when the Big Bad Wolf turns up, can William put his artistic skills to good use and save the day …? This book is part of the Little Gems range, fully illustrated first chapter books designed to support reading speed and stamina. SHONA, WORD DETECTIVE by John Agard Illustrated by Michael Broad (Age 7+) Shona has always loved words. She even has her very own strange word thesaurus! When she and her classmates learn that some languages are dying out, Miss Bates tasks them with becoming top-class word detectives, proving to themselves and their families that there are many Raring2go! READING Kenilworth Books, Talisman Square, Kenilworth CV8 1JB beautiful languages still thriving, even within their own classroom. Edited to a reading age of 7. THE WEATHER WELL by Vashti Hardy Illustrated by Natalie Smillie (Age 8+) It’s the height of summer in Moreland, and Grace Griffin and her fellow warden Tom Eely are sweltering in the heat until they answer a strange call for help that comes through on the amazing Griffin map. After teleporting to Oakwell, they find the town paralysed by a freezing snowstorm, which is ruining the famous summer market that brings in visitors and trade. Using their mystery-solving skills and amazing inventions, can Grace and Tom find the cause of the weird weather and restore summer from the snow? Edited to a reading age of 8. Start the adventure with The Griffin Gate, The Puffin Portal and The Raven Riddle and read the series. NORTHERN SOUL by Phil Earle (Age 11+) Marv’s fourteen and his life is simple. There’s football. And his best mate, Jimmy. Perfect. Nothing else matters until a new girl at school called Carly crashes into his life. For Marv, it’s love at first sight, his emotions flipped upside down, as he knows a girl like Carly will never notice him. He needs help – lots of it – but when it miraculously arrives in the shape of a musical idol from the past, the path to Carly’s heart proves anything but easy …First love is unforgettable, and poor Marv is about to learn this the hard way – him, and his northern soul … Check out Barrington Stoke’s website for more information www.barringtonstoke. co.uk or pop into the bookshop for recommendations. 2 raring2go.co.uk Does your child struggle to read due to dyslexia or visual stress? Are they reluctant to engage with books or read for pleasure?
27 Raring2go! BOOKS 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!
28 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! PUZZLE PAGE WORDSEARCH ANSWERS: Tulip, Daffodilm Snowdrop, Bluebell, Rose WORDSEARCH Can you find 5 flowers: Answers at the bottom of the page. No cheating! Spot the difference (There are 5 to find)
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 29 For advice on running a PTA, securing grant funding, planning events, or to find the right suppliers, visit pta.co.uk PTA+ magazine pta.co.uk Social communities Email newsletters Make your children’s school the best it can be WATCH OUR VIDEO
30 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! COMPETITIONS 2024
31 Raring2go! COMPETITIONS WIN A SIGNED SHIRT SCAN HERE TO ENTER @AVWFCofficial VILLA PARK FIXTURES 24 MARCH 6:45PM 28 APRIL 2 PM* 18 MAY 3PM *Fixture subject to change Wychwood, Cheltenham’s most loved family festival, is growing in size and reputation year on year. With great music programming, hilarious comedians, 100’s of workshops, and children’s entertainment, it’s a feast of activities to entertain all ages across the weekend! Returning for their 18th year of unforgettable memories for all the family, Wychwood Festival 2024 has a line-up bursting at the seams including this one for the kids - CBBC’S HACKER T DOG & KATIE THISTLETON! Visit our competition page to WIN TICKETS!
Raring2go! PLACES TO GO 32 raring2go.co.uk "Best Children's Sports Camp Provider 2023 - West Midlands" “The best sports camp around! My kids LOVE it. Excellent coaches who really care about improving the kids’ skills. We can’t wait for the next one!” Parent, 2024 Scan here for your FREE DAY New to Super Sports? FREE DAY on us! info@teamsupersports.co.uk 01675 488494 WWW.TEAMSUPERSPORTS.CO.UK WHY CHOOSE SUPER SPORTS? Inspirational & Qualified Coaches Drop off from 8am - Pick up by 5pm Ofsted Registered | Childcare vouchers Accepted Create your very own Sports Camp! Play one sport all day OR Change sport each session Simply scan the QR code, fill in a quick form and you'll be sent your code. HOLIDAY CAMPS Location: The Downs Malvern Next Camp: Easter Holidays Location: The Downs Malvern Next Camp: Easter Holidays Brockhill Road, Malvern, WR13 6EY Available ALL School Holidays GYMNASTICS FOOTBALL NETBALL TENNIS RUGBY CRICKET HOCKEY
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