SOLIHULL MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk SUMMER 2023 COMPETITIONS P30 HOLIDAY CLUBS P16 WHAT’S ON? P4
2 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON?
Raring2go! EDITOR’S WELCOME 3 • It’s FREE to join • Monthly email newsletters with new offers and events • Download vouchers and save £££’s • Great competitions Become a website member Please recycle this magazine when you are finished with it. JOIN NOW raring2go.co.uk Copyright © 2023 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. 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 business featured. Printed by Gemini Print. Telephone: 01273 468884 • Sign up for FREE! • Monthly email NEWSLETTERS with the latest OFFERS and EVENTS • Download VOUCHERS and save £££’s • Enter COMPETITIONS for amazing prizes! Contents Page What’s On?.......................................4 Holiday Clubs...................................16 Clubs and Classes..........................20 Preschool......................................... 25 Parties. .............................................27 Competitions................................... 30 Follow us on social media to keep up to date all year with your local #gotoguide for families. Raring2goSolihull Raring2goSolihull raring2gosolihull Time for sunshine and smiles The long summer holiday is just around the corner now. This must mean it is time to make sure the holiday camps and childcare are booked and start planning how to keep the kids entertained. There are lots of ideas and inspiration in this edition of Raring2go! whatever your little ones are interested in. Why not make a cuppa, sit down and have a look through to see what takes your fancy? Don’t forget to visit our website where you’ll find even more suggestions as well great chances to win fantastic prizes in our summer competitions. I hope you have a fabulous Summer holiday whatever you decide to get up to – indoors, outdoors, educational or simply letting off steam! Nicola, Editor
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 4 raring2go.co.uk Until 26 August (Saturdays only) Drayton Manor – Summer Nights This Summer, Saturday night is party night at Drayton! Dance the night away with live bands & DJ, late night riding and themed food & drink. Day ticket: 10:30am - 9pm. Evening ticket: 5pm - 9pm. www.draytonmanor.co.uk Until 3 September Magic Alley – The Curse of Jewel Island Immerse yourself in a land of pirates and puzzles for a brand new swashbuckling adventure. As you explore the island, you’ll encounter mysterious clues, hidden messages, and mind-bending challenges that will test your ingenuity and teamwork. Gather your team, prepare for an epic adventure, and join this thrilling journey to retrieve the jewels! The adventure culminates in a visit to our very own beach full of play sand where you can enjoy building sand castles or relaxing in a deck chair looking out to sea! www.magicalleystratford.com Until 1 October Compton Verney – Quentin Blake: Birds, Beasts and Explorers Sir Quentin Blake is one of the most celebrated illustrators and writers of children’s books working today. Over the course of a career spanning several decades, Blake has illustrated more than 500 books, bringing to life treasured literary characters in his unmistakeable style and inspiring generations. Showcasing over 70 original illustrations, this exhibition takes inspiration from recurring themes in Blake’s work – birds, fantastical flying creatures and the joy of exploring in nature – as well as the flying creatures that call Compton Verney’s grounds home. www.comptonverney.org.uk 6 July – 16 September Birmingham Hippodrome – The Lion King Set against the majesty of the Serengeti to the evocative rhythms of Africa, The Lion King tells the story of Simba’s epic journey to fulfil his destiny as What’s On? Summer 2023 King of the Pridelands. Director Julie Taymor uses breathtaking theatrical magic to bring Disney’s beloved animated feature to life in a production which has thrilled over 110 million people around the world. www.birminghamhippodrome.com 16 July - 3 September (Sundays only) Shakespeare Express The ever-popular Shakespeare Express runs from either Birmingham Snow Hill or Stratford upon Avon, calling at Birmingham Moor Street and on the outward journey only, at Henley in Arden. The journey from Stratford runs at express speeds of up to 75 mph via Solihull non-stop to Birmingham Moor Street. www.vintagetrains.co.uk 17 July – 3 September Wistow Maze To highlight the problems facing the world’s marine wildlife, Wistow Maze has been designed in the shape of a Sea Turtle for the 2023 season. Visitors have to find 12 quiz boards, each one featuring an endangered marine animal and the problems that they face. The giant 8 acre maize maze has a fun quiz trail hidden amongst its 3 miles of pathways, with high-level bridges and towers giving stunning panoramic views. With plenty of space, the maze offers great outdoor entertainment for young and old. Visitors can also take part in a variety of mini mazes and games in the Activity Funyard, which includes a space-hopper track, hoopla, beanbag throwing and a football shooting game. Opens 17 July - 3 Sept (daily), then weekends only until 17 September. www.wistow.com 18 July Brueton Park – Outdoor Theatre: Bad Dad Bad Dad by David Walliams, adapted for the outdoor stage by Heartbreak Productions. Bad Dad is a fast and furious, heart-warming tale of a father and son on a thrilling mission to break an innocent man into prison . . . It’s a high-speed cops-androbbers adventure with heart and soul about a father and son taking on the villainous Mr Big – and winning! www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 5 MOMENTS TOUCHWOODSOLIHULL.CO.UK CONNECT WITH US Get your buckets and spades at the ready - Costa del Solihull is back at Touchwood! Pull up a deck chair, build some sand castles and enjoy fun family days in the sun - who knows, you might even see a mermaid or two! 22ND JULY - 3RD SEPTEMBER Beach_Raring2Go_210x297.indd 1 24/05/2023 10:43
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 6 raring2go.co.uk 22 July – 3 September Touchwood – Mer-tastic Beach Get your buckets and spades at the ready – Costa del Solihull is back at Touchwood. Pull up a deck chair, build some sandcastles and enjoy family fun days in the sun – who knows you might even see a mermaid or two! www.touchwoodsolihull.co.uk 22 July – 3 September Fairytale Farm - Fairytale Festival You won’t want to miss the ‘Fairytale Festival’. With interactive fairy tale storytelling that will bring some of the most famous fairy tales alive, a puppet show, crafts and summer games, there will be something for everyone. Activities include interactive storytelling, puppet show workshop, helping to build Hansel & Gretel’s cottage, games and challenges along the trail and an enchanting fairy tale sandcastle competition (The winner will receive a family Annual Pass worth £150!). www.fairytalefarm.co.uk 22 July – 3 September Stratford Butterfly Farm – Summer Holiday Activities Visit the newly opened Rainforest Realm, an exciting display linking the butterfly farm to the rainforests of Belize and the ancient Maya civilisation. Meet the Mini-Beast handling sessions and Butterfly Life-Cycle demonstrations will take place daily at 11am (except Bank Holiday Monday) in the Discovery Zone. Pupae Preparation demonstrations will take place at 11am each Wednesday throughout the summer holidays. The whole family can find out how the pupae are transported from butterfly farmers in the tropics to its arrival at the butterfly farm and preparation for the Emerging Case. Handling and demonstrations subject to change depending on availability and the welfare of the animals. www.butterflyfarm.co.uk What’s On? Summer 2023 23 July – 3 September Warwick Castle – Biggest Summer in History Over a thousand years in the making, it’s the biggest summer in history at Warwick Castle. From incredible evening events to action-packed days, it’s sure to be a summer that will go down in history! For a limited time only, Horrible Histories®- Wicked Warwick returns to reveal the terrible truth behind the turrets. But that’s not all! Fill your day with fun with a full line-up of shows and activities. From The Realm of Zog to Wars of the Roses LIVE!, there’s something for everyone. www.warwick-castle.com 26 – 30 July Belgrade Theatre – Zog Zog tries so very hard, perhaps too hard, and he bumps, burns and roars his way through years one, two and three. Luckily, the plucky Princess Pearl patches him up ready to face his biggest challenge yet… a duel with knight, Sir Gadabout the Great! The smash-hit stage adaptation promises to be bigger, brighter and more roar-some than ever before! With lively songs, Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved Zog is a magical production for all ages. www.belgrade.co.uk 26 July – 3 September Hatton Adventure World – Great Summer Adventure Dinosaurs Alive! Back for 2023 - Bigger and better than ever before! Enjoy a daily programme of dinosaur shows, activities and meet & greets. In addition to Dinosaurs Alive there will be a full programme of animals, action & adventure for all the family. All included in your admission. www.adventure.hattonworld.com 26 July – 3 September Charlecote Park – Summer of Play Enjoy a vibrant and colourful summer of play in the outdoors at Charlecote Park. Discover a jam-packed summer of play over the summer holiday. Play on repeat and pop back to enjoy activities every week. Bring a picnic and spend the days adventuring in the parkland and getting stuck into ‘Play’ themed games and activities. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 7
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 8 raring2go.co.uk 28 July – 6 August Birmingham Festival ‘23 Proudly outdoors and free to access, the Festival will echo the city-centre experience of the Commonwealth Games, taking over Centenary Square with live music and performance, creative and participatory activities, and big-screen content to conjure the shared experiences, magic and memories of the summer of ‘22. Across 10 days and 9 evenings, Birmingham Festival 23 will welcome audiences, artists, local communities and volunteers, reflecting the diversity of the city, to come together to watch, listen, relax, dance and play. www.birminghamfestival23.co.uk 29 July Sarehole Mill – Fantasy Comic Book Workshop Start your journey through a fantasy world with this comic book workshop. This two hour session will begin with a brief tour of the Sarehole Mill grounds as we hear how J.R.R. Tolkien was inspired by the site. We’ll then you will be guided through the fundamentals of story telling and comic book techniques that will help you tell your own unique and engaging story. Use collage, watercolour and ink to create vibrant and exciting pictures to imagine impossible and fantastic worlds and adventures. All materials provided and your creations are yours to take home at the end of the workshop. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 29 – 30 July Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Gardens – Legendary Joust Experience the exhilarating spectacle of speed and skill as four legendary knights compete for honour and glory in the Grand Medieval Joust. See lances shatter, feel the thunder of hooves and hear the roar of the crowd as reputations are won and lost. Our fearless fighters and their magnificent horses will charge at each other at full speed in and unforgettable display of chivalry and sheer courage. Choose your champion and cheer them on to What’s On? Summer 2023 victory – or console them in defeat. www.english-heritage.org.uk 1 – 6 August Compton Verney – Luminarium Since 1992, Architects of Air’s luminaria have enchanted over 3 million visitors in more than 40 countries around the world - the Timisien has been to Madrid, Sydney, Barcelona, Los Angeles and now it is coming to Compton Verney for the first time. Visitors have the chance to explore the sculpture, experiencing the beauty of light and colour as they move through a dazzling maze of domes, columns and tunnels of the Luminarium. The Luminarium is half the size of a Rugby Pitch and each of the domes immerses people in a unique environment. www.comptonverney.org.uk 1 & 10 August Fired Crafts – Pottery Painting Workshops Join in for some summertime fun with paint your own pottery sessions in Solihull. Help your little ones create mini masterpieces. Paint their own plate - to help with dinner times or help them save money by decorating their own money bank. Tuesday 1st August - 10:00 at The Two Mugs, Shirley and Thursday 10th August - 10:00 at Paramo Lounge, Solihull. Book online. Recommend age: 5+ - parents will be required to stay. www.firedcrafts.com 3 – 6 August Belgrade Theatre - Hey Duggee Hey Duggee the Live Theatre Show is going to be HUGE and will feature Duggee and the Squirrels plus many more of your favourite characters! Betty wants to make costumes, Happy wants to sing, Tag wants to make music, Norrie wants to dance, Roly wants jelly and they all want you to join them at the Clubhouse. www.belgrade.co.uk 3, 8, 17 & 22 August The Chocolate Shed – Chocolate Making Workshops Ideal for any weather, these sessions are a special treat. Each workshop is run with a seasonal twist. Suitable for children of all ages (5-16). Check website for the timing and recommended ages for each session. www.thechocolateshed.com
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 9 HATTONWORLD.COM PLUS... ALL DAY ANIMAL HANDLING LASER COMBAT FAMILY SHOWS TRACTOR RIDES ...AND SO MUCH MORE 26TH JULY TO 3RD SEPTEMBER
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 10 raring2go.co.uk 5 – 6 August Jephson Gardens – Art in the Park Festival A free curated arts festival with a difference. They showcase, sell and provide live demonstrations from artists and craftspeople in Warwickshire and the Midlands. Celebrate independent local and regional food and drink. The best live music, dance and theatre from our own doorstep alongside nationally and internationally renowned companies. Over 2 days in August in the beautiful surroundings of Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens. www.artinpark.co.uk 12 – 13 August mac Birmingham – Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So BARMY BRITAIN is back with the hit West End show, full of crazy new characters and rude new rulers from Britain’s barmy past! Will you be conquered by William? Will you sink or swim with King Henry I? Go house hunting with Henry VIII! Join the gorgeous Georgians as they take over England! Break into Buckingham Palace and hide from the Queen Victoria! www.macbirmingham.co.uk 25 – 27 August Silverstone Bank Holiday Festival For over thirty years, the home of British motorsport has played host to the event (formerly known as ‘Silverstone Classic’) and while the event continues to boast an unrivalled line-up of the best historic motorsport and thousands of classic cars, its new name celebrates the development of off-track entertainment offered to all festival-goers… not just petrolheads! Over three amazing days, all generations will come together to enjoy three nights of live music, an F1 FanZone, extreme sports stunt displays and masterclasses plus a free funfair in the Adrenaline Zone, a buzzing Village Green complete with its very own Foodie Fest, garden games, crazy golf, and much more all included in What’s On? Summer 2023 the standard ticket price. Accompanied kids aged 15 and under go free. www.silverstone.co.uk 26 – 28 August Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Gardens – Knights Tournament Go back in time and get closer to the action as rival knights compete in the ultimate test of strength and skill at Kenilworth Castle’s Knights’ Tournament. Swords will clash and the winner will be decided in the Grand Melee finale. Immerse yourself in the medieval encampment and meet characters from the past to hear all about weapon repairs, cooking and day-to-day life. www.english-heritage.org.uk 31 August Packwood House – Outdoor Theatre: Bad Dad Pack a picnic, dress for the weather, and head to Packwood for a unique outdoor theatre experience of David Walliams’ Bad Dad. Performance starts at 6pm, gates with be open from 5pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk 13 – 17 September Belgrade Theatre – Tales from Acorn Wood Poor old Fox has lost his socks! Are they in the kitchen or inside the clock? And Rat-a-tat-tat! Who’s that keeping tired Rabbit awake? You can also join in with Pig and Hen’s game of hide-and-seek and discover the special surprise Postman Bear is planning for his friends. Packed full of toe-tapping songs, puppetry, and all the friends from Acorn Wood, this beautiful show from the team that brought you Dear Zoo Live and Dear Santa promises to be the perfect treat for children of all ages. www.belgrade.co.uk 23 September Ackers Adventure – Thrill Seeker Day A great day out for all the family. Skiing, Archery, Climbing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Zip Wire and Tower Drop. There is also free tobogganing for under 12’s with a paying adult. These days run similarly to a theme park. Queue up for activities that you would like try – you can do them multiple times or try them all! www.ackers-adventure.co.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 11 Book now at vintagetrains.co.uk The Shakespeare Express returns, running between Birmingham and Stratford upon Avon, with more dates to choose from for 2023 and time to spend in Stratford. Alternatively travel from Stratford and enjoy a leisurely Sunday lunch with friends and family aboard a heritage steam train.
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 12 raring2go.co.uk To book your place visit crackleyhall.co.uk or scan the QR code. Looking for a Nursery, Reception or Year 3 place in September 2024? Join us for our dedicated Open Evening on Thursday 28 September 2023. An independent school for 4-11 year olds Crackley Hall School A Princethorpe Foundation School. Registered Charity Number 1087124. Scan me Pottery painting in Solihull. Join us for some summer time fun with paint your own pottery sessions in Solihull. We’ll help your little ones create mini masterpieces. Paint their own plate - to help with dinner times or help them save money by decorating their own money bank. Tuesday 1st August 10:00 at The Two Mugs, Shirley Thursday 10th August 10:00 at Paramo Lounge, Solihull Book online: www.firedcrafts.com/events Recommend age: 5+ - parents will be required to stay. www.firedcrafts.com
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 13 Claudie’s Club Soft Play NOW OPEN claudiesclub.simplybook.it Brand new Soft Play centre in Solihull Adjacent to George’s Swim Academy, Vulcan Road, B91 2JY Find us on instagram @claudiesclub.softplay based at combat sports centre, vulcan road, solihull an imaginative role play centre for under 5 years to book your space visit info@solihullplaytown.co.uk
14 raring2go.co.uk 3. Indoor Water Fun We all know that despite our best intentions, plans are often scuppered by the great British weather. When splashing around in the sunshine isn’t an option why not take a trip to a local swimming pool? The Wave in Coventry has some amazing water slides for swimmers of a wide range of abilities. 5 ways to make a splash this Summer Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 2. Messing about in boats Hiring a boat can be a perfect activity to do together as a family. Depending on the age of your children, you could spend a day trying out stand-up paddle boarding, canoeing, rowing or simply potter about in a pedalo. Ackers Adventure run group canoeing and kayaking sessions as well as bell-boating alongside all of their other adventurous activities. Leamington Boat Club (Jephson Gardens) and Warwick Boats (St Nicholas Park) offer all sorts of options for hire. 1. Water Fights A good old fashioned water fight in the garden can be a fantastic way to cool off after a long hot day. If you fancy raising the stakes a little you could take on your friends and family at Hatton Adventure World. During the Summer holidays ‘Water Battles’ will be back alongside all of their usual activities.
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 15 4. Paddling pools and splash pads Sometimes all the kids need keep them entertained is visit to a new park or playground. Over the Summer why not take advantage of the sunshine and add a little bit of variety by visiting one of our local paddling pools or splash pads? Stratford-UponAvon Recreation Ground, Victoria Park, Leamington and St Nicholas Park, Warwick have great paddling pools for the little ones and War Memorial Park, Coventry has a Splash ‘n’ Play area with water jets and drenchers! Or why not head over to Droitwich Lido and enjoy the outdoor swimming pool and wet play area. 5. Aqua Parks Outdoor water parks are a lot of fun – especially when the sun is shining! Families can clamber, bounce and slide their way around these floating obstacle courses. There are several local aqua parks to choose from – Cliff Lakes, Tamworth and Spot-on-Wake, Wootton Wawen are a couple of our favourites. Look out for age and height restrictions to make sure a visit is suitable for your family before you book.
16 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! HOLIDAY CLUBS Holiday Clubs Music Monsters Music Monsters is a piano lesson programme created by Luke and Lauren Elliot, experts in children’s music education. Piano Monsters is for children aged 4-11 years, providing the very best start to their musical learning journey. Look out for special sessions during school holidays. www.musicmonsters.co.uk Ackers Adventure Adventurous activities can include Bushcraft, skiing, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, zip wire, fan descender, bellboating, disc golf and tubing. Cost is £38 per day. The activities are run and organised by fully qualified and experienced instructors who will make sure that each child has an exciting day of adventure. Pre-booking online is essential. www.ackers-adventure.co.uk 21st - 25th August The Dovehouse Theatre, Langley School A jam-packed one week Musical Theatre Workshop, learning new skills and techniques, having incredible fun with your friends, and putting on a full show in one week. Limited Availability. Open to non-Stagecoach students. Childcare Vouchers accepted. FROZEN! EARLY STAGES MORNING SUMMER WORKSHOP 4-7 year olds 9:00 - 12:00 or 1:00 – 4:00 £90 (£80 for second siblings) *With Permission from Music Theatre International. Original Broadway Orchestrations by Dave Metzger. Original Broadway Music Supervision and Arrangements by Stephen Oremus. Additional Broadway Dance Arrangements by David Chase. Frozen JR. Music Adapted and Arranged by Madeline Smith. Frozen JR. Script Adapted by Sara Wordsworth* SCHOOL OF ROCK! MAIN STAGES SUMMER WORKSHOP 6-18 year olds • 10:00 - 4:00 £140 (£110 for second siblings) *An Amateur/Youth group production by arrangement with The Really Useful Group Ltd* Singing, dancing and acting classes for year-olds Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Solihull 2 - 18 Tudor Grange Upper School, B91 3PD 0121 745 4007 www.stagecoach.co.uk/solihull
Raring2go! HOLIDAY CLUBS 17 Choice of venues and activities *Offer ends 5pm Friday 7th July Ofsted registered Action-packed childcare this Summer Holiday Open from8am - 6pm BOOK ONLINE For more info and to book your place visit activecamps.co.uk or call 0121 663 1426 Solihull Tudor Grange Academy 15% OFF* with code SUM23SO Monday 24th July - Friday 1st September SUMMERSWIMMING LESSONS THIS AUGUST: PRIVATE LESSONS SMALL GROUP CLASSES FOR ALL ABILITIES 3YRS+ BOOK NOW CONTACT G.S.A EMAIL: RECEPTION.GSA@HOTMAIL.COM • TEL: 0121 704 4693
18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! HOLIDAY CLUBS Schools Cash In: Warwickshire company helps schools unlock revenue potential School leaders are under increasing pressure to find extra revenue streams to support overstretched budgets. Onside Live show schools how to generate an income by running their own after school club and wraparound care businesses, instead of outsourcing them. The proven model uses their own booking software alongside a wealth of experience to support schools. It is the brainchild of founding trio Richard Butler, Mark Morrey and Tom Sidwell, and an offshoot of Onside Coaching, the children’s activities and childcare business they’ve been running for 25 years, based in Warwickshire. Director Mark Morrey explains: “We’ve launched Onside Live to help as many schools as possible generate an income from running their own provision. It’s never been more needed. “Primary schools know the benefits of running their own provision but are reluctant to take on the challenge as managing the admin is such a daunting prospect. Not only do we provide the software needed to deal with admin but, just as importantly, we also share our experience on how to set up a profitable, wraparound business with longevity.” Onside Live calculates that running wraparound care in a typical one form entry primary school can easily generate sales of between £80,000 - £100,000 in the first year alone; netting an annual profit upwards of £40,000. “That’s enough for a class teacher or additional support staff. The potential in larger schools is actually quite staggering,” Mark continues. Priors Field Primary School in Kenilworth is just one of the early adopters of the model. They made the decision to take the service in-house and haven’t looked back. Katy Braley, Deputy Headteacher at Priors Field School in Kenilworth, explains: “With the help of Onside Live we were able to see a clear vision of where our club could go and what it could do for our community. Rainbow Club now serves around 140 children across the week which represents two thirds of pupils on roll. The money we bring in allows us to think about making improvements to our ageing 1970s building, and more aspirational projects like improving the sports fields or creating a nurture room; everything that will make our school an even better place to be. “It’s inevitable we’re going to see real spending cuts across the entire public sector, yet we’re already seeing requirements for children’s mental health and SEND services increase, and that costs money. School leadership now needs to think more innovatively about how to fund for the next three years, and taking our wraparound care in-house has been a revelation for us.” For more information about Onside Live you can visit onsidelive.co.uk. Right: Onside Live shows teacher the software Below: Rainbow Club manager Tanya Folliet welcomes children into the club L-R: Mark Morrey, Katy Braley, Richard Butler and Rainbow Club manager Tanya Folliet
Raring2go! HOLIDAY CLUBS 19 The Solihull HAF (Holiday Activities and Food programme) aims to provide a range of activities and a nutritious meal, for children, from Reception to year 11 who are in full-time education and receive benefits-related free school meals (FSM) during Easter, Summer and Christmas school holidays. These are free of charge to the parent/carer of eligible children. Children who are registered as in receipt of FSM will automatically receive an email from Solihull Council which will enable them to prove eligibility. Sessions will provide at least 4 hours of physical and/or enriching activities such as sports, dance, drama or arts and crafts and all children and young people that attend receive at least one free healthy and tasty meal. This is a great opportunity for your child to have new experiences, make friends and learn new things. You do not have to book all your HAF sessions with just one provider. However, you are asked to only book a maximum of 16 sessions per child during the Summer. This will allow more children to enjoy the fun and benefit from attending. For more information on the HAF Programme in Solihull visit www.solihull.gov.uk/children-and-family-support/haf Solihull HAF Programme - Are you eligible? Communities around the globe are concerned about plastic ending up in landfill and polluting the oceans ... that’s why hundreds of millions of people worldwide are choosing to be part of Plastic Free July Will you join the challenge? 1. Visit our website plasticfreejuly.org 2. Choose what you will do Avoid single-use plastic packaging Target the takeaway items that could end up in the ocean Go completely plastic free 3. Choose the length 1 day 1 week 1 month Always Yes, I will join the challenge! AVOID WASTE, PROTECT THE OCEAN, SIGN UP AND BE PART OF THE SOLUTION. PLASTICFREEJULY.ORG Please join our effort to help the environment. Choose to refuse single-use plastic during July.
20 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Clubs & Classes Facebook: s4swimschoolcsbs Instagram: s4swimcsbs Twitter: s4swimcsbs s4swimschool.uk S4 Swim School have been providing the service of swimming lessons to thousands of children and adults for over a decade. Lessons run at many great pools during term time and school holidays. • Small groups • Online personal member area • Term plans available to download • Personal swimmer achievement records • Fast progression through groups Mag_ad62x89Ad-2022.indd 1 30/06/2022 12:26 George’s Swim Academy A purpose built family swim centre in Solihull with an experienced team offering swimming lessons from babies upwards. We cater for all abilities from beginners to improvers to advanced. Facebook: @georgesswimacademy Email: reception.gsa@hotmail.com Smart 11 Plus Our 11+ tutors will give your child outstanding support in their journey to grammar school. We offer private group 11+ tuition to assist your child in their preparation. Our unique 11+ courses are personalised to meet the needs of each individual. www.smart11plus.co.uk Stagecoach Dance, drama and singing classes for children aged 2-18. Theatre schools on Saturdays plus holiday workshops open to all. Tel: Jenny on 0121 745 4007 www.stagecoach.co.uk/solihull
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 21 *GB only. 18+. Promotion closes 23:59 31/03/2024. Redeem by 23:59 31/05/24. Automatic claim for one x free 6-month subscription code to Kids Pass for Everyone Active cardholders joining swimming lessons or a sports course on Direct Debit, continuing their Direct Debit for either of these activities as of 09:00 01/04/2023 or paying in full in advance for these activities during the promotional period at participating centres. In addition, one x free 6-month subscription code to Kids Pass will be made available to any person holding a children’s party at participating centres during the promotional period, Everyone Active card not required. Max one claim per person. Offer applies to parties and sports courses run by Everyone Active only and not those run by third parties (but held on Everyone Active premises). Valid email address required to claim, and internet access required to redeem free subscription code on-line. Kids Pass requires app download and registration. Existing Kids Pass subscribers will receive an additional 6 months on their pass. Exclusions apply. Visit www.everyoneactive.com/kidspass for full terms. Everyone Active works in partnership with Solihull Council. CAN LEARN TO SWIM Learn from four months old Free swimming in public sessions Lessons run up to seven days a week Teachers are Swim England or equivalent qualified Free 6-month subscription to Kids Pass* TUDOR GRANGE LEISURE CENTRE NORTH SOLIHULL SPORTS CENTRE JOIN OUR AWARD-WINNING SWIM LESSONS TODAY 26169_Raring 2 Go_Full page_Swim_Solihull.indd 1 22/05/2023 14:50
WORDSEARCH ANSWERS: Pig, Sheep, Duck, Cow, Farm. NAME THE BEACH OBJECTS: 1 Castle, 2 Sun, 3 Flippers, 4 Glasses, 5 Umbrella, 6 Towel, 7 Shell, 8 Ball. 1 5 4 6 7 2 3 B S F C S U 8 G T WORDSEARCH Find the farm yard words Answers at the bottom of the page. No cheating! Name the beach objects from the images provided 1 3 6 5 7 2 8 4
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 23 Saturday 12:30pm-1:30pm LANGLEY SECONDARY SCHOOL, SOLIHULL. B92 7ER Badminton Coaching sessions for ages 12 and under 1ST SESSION FREE! Come along to have a fun, sociable time. Learn a new sports skill. As a bonus, you will get fit! For details contact Paul Harris. paharris20@hotmail.com www.solihullshirley.btck.co.uk Solihull & Shirley Badminton Club Ballet Classes: from the age of 21/ 2 upwards Tap Classes: from the age of 4 upwards Call Kate on 07722 732 678 www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk TEACHING BALLET AND TAP IN THE BOROUGH FOR OVER 40 YEARS Let’s Dance! Come and join the fun on Saturday mornings from 9.00am at St Helens Church, Solihull Jump in, have fun & learn to swim! with Diamond Swim Academy • King Edwards Camp Hill Girls, Kings Heath • Archbsihop Ilsley, Acocks Green • Moseley Road Baths • King Edwards Girls, Edgbaston • Blue Coat School, Harborne Lessons for swimmers age 2.5 to Adults To book email info@diamondswimacademy.co.uk
25 Pre-School Raring2go! PRE-SCHOOL Solihull Young Dancers Ballet classes for children aged from 2 ½ years and tap classes from 4 years on. Our lessons focus on strong technique whilst retaining an element of fun to keep the pupils engaged at all times. Contact: kate@solihullyoungdancers.co.uk / 07722 732678 www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk Stagecoach Stagecoach Mini Stages (for 2 -4 year olds) 45 Minute Classes are a fun and exciting way for you and your child to actively experience the performing arts in a comfortable, relaxed and safe environment. www.stagecoach.co.uk/solihull Sing and Sign For babies and toddlers, up to 2 years old. Our Classes use musical and sensory activities to teach Baby Sign Language. These signs include daily routines and things little ones love. Using Baby Signs can develop communication and ease frustrations. Classes are live in Shirley and Dorridge term time, and online @home. Contact: Wendyjackson@singandsign.co.uk 07517 381117 www.singandsign.co.uk Drama Tots Imaginative play classes for Under 5s. Transport children into the wonderful world of their imagination using a combination of props, movement, puppets and music! Our lively classes engage children in both life and learning, increasing their understanding of the world, while developing personal skills such as confidence, self-awareness, communication, language and creative thinking. Rebecca (Solihull) Rebecca@dramatots.co.uk, 07810815114 Cat (Balsall Common) Cat@dramatots.co.uk, 07532769095 www.dramatots.co.uk Little Crackers Stay ‘n’ Play Little Crackers Stay ‘n’ Play is back at Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery every Wednesday during term time from a new time of 10.30am to 11.45am. We have got some exciting activities and events lined up, so there is plenty to keep you and your little one busy and entertained. You won’t need to book your place in advance. www.littlecrackers.co.uk Music Monsters We are a family-run business based in Solihull. Piano Monsters is for children aged 3-7 years, providing the very best start to their musical learning journey. We inspire a true love of learning in youngsters and their families, building skills, enjoyment and confidence. Contact: info@musicmonsters.co.uk www.musicmonsters.co.uk
People assume that picture books are for children. They’re not, they are for the relationship between adults and children. In fact, picture books are some of the only books that are read by adults and children at the same time; one of their purposes is precisely to allow adults and children to enjoy books and talk about them together. Whether you are a parent, teacher or babysitter, while you’re reading a book to a child, they are often looking closely at the pictures. When adults take time to look closely at the illustrations too, they will notice things hidden in there that add to the story, and are an essential part of the storytelling: emotions expressed, a sense of atmosphere, the reactions of other characters – things are that are not written into the words. The work of an illustrator is not just for the child, it is for you too, as an adult. So, next time you’re reading a book with a child, take extra time to really look at the work of the illustrator too – your time will be rewarded! What about illustrated books for older children? Who decided, and when, that pictures in books were only for very young children? Historically, many adult novels were illustrated. Not only can images really enrich an older child’s (or an adult’s!) enjoyment of a book, but illustration has always been a vital part of storytelling. Indeed, some of our earliest stories are told in image form and not in words at all; as far as we know human’s have been using visual forms of storytelling for 45,500 years. Visual literacy is a vital part of a child’s education too, so please do not feel that if your older child chooses graphic novels or illustrated chapter books, that those books are somehow ‘too young’ or beneath them. These are still ‘proper books’, in fact I would argue that they are bigger and broader in content than unillustrated books. We are in a great age of illustration – we have still got great illustrators from many of our own childhoods, such as Quentin Raring2go! READING Far more than a pretty picture! Making time for illustration as part of your child’s reading experience. Blake and Helen Oxenbury, and we ALSO have brilliant illustrators of this age, like Jackie Morris, Chris Riddell and James Mayhew working at the top of their game – as well as an entire generation or two of new illustrators emerging into the book industry. If you don’t know it already, check out work by Melissa Castrillion, Lauren O’Hara and Chie Kutsuwada. Happily, we’re seeing more and more illustrated books for older children, and for adults, appearing in the market. So next time you are in a bookshop or a library, think about exploring the illustration as well as the words! By Tamsin Rosewell, Kenilworth Books 26 raring2go.co.uk
Party Time! Ackers Adventure Parties With over ten adventurous activities to choose from, your party experience will be an active and enjoyable one for both children and adults. Choose from jungle challenge, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, bushcraft, archery, orienteering, bellboating, tubing, tobogganing, disc golf or skiing. www.ackers-adventure.co.uk/groups/parties/ Hatton Adventure World To provide you with the maximum flexibility and choice for your party we have options ranging from Party Venue hire to just admission for the Adventure World at a discounted party price. All party bookings include all day access to Hatton Adventure World for you and your guests, downloadable party invitations, a birthday card for the birthday child with a £5 Hatton voucher (£10 for Members), a pot of animal feed, per paying child (value £1) and access to Super Slide Mania. www.adventure.hattonworld.com Solihull Play Town We offer exclusive use birthday parties at Solihull Play Town. You will have a member of staff available to help you organise your day, exclusive 90 min play session for up to 20 children, Mini Disco, Party Invitations, a free return visit for the Birthday Child and free jugs of squash. Catering is available from our café or you can bring your own food. www.solihullplaytown.co.uk The Chocolate Shed Celebrate your child’s birthday this year with a fun, creative and yummy(!) chocolate-making party at The Chocolate Shed. Suitable for children of all ages. Party-goers get to design, create and decorate chocolate pizzas, frogs, pictures, bars or truffles to take home and enjoy. Parties tailored to suit your child’s age & hobbies that will make their chocolate-y dreams come true. Tel: 01564 794718 www.thechocolateshed.com Becketts Farm Treat yourself and your friends to a bakery themed party and learn how to decorate cakes with our confectioners. Bake two dishes; pizza and cupcakes and enjoy with a party buffet. www.beckettsfarm.co.uk Fired Crafts We put the ART back into Party. Let them get creative with our pottery party. We come to you with all that is needed for them to make a mini masterpiece and return up to 2 weeks later with their gift wrapped party bags with the finished piece inside. Plus a FREE personalised birthday plate for the lucky Birthday Boy or Girl! www.firedcrafts.com Raring2go! PARTIES 27 HADO HADO is Augmented Reality crossed with Sports to create a unique Techno Sport. For ages 6 and up, form yourselves into Monster Hunting teams and attempt to beat the 4 Boss Monsters before the time runs out and they escape. Maximum group size of 12, with up to 4 players per Monster Hunter team. www.hadouk.co.uk
THE Summer 1. What colour is a Sun ower? 2. Where do birds live? 3. What is the capital of England? 4. What do bees make? 5. What language do people who live in Spain speak? in Spain speak? live 6. What is the worlds fastest bird? 7. What planet is closest to the Sun? 8. me the colours of the Union Jack 9. w many dots appear on a dice? 10. How many colours are there in the rainbow? QUICK QUIZ Answers at the bottom of the page. No cheating! k Nam How H ANSWERS: 1. Yellow, 2. Nest, 3. London, 4. Honey, 5. Spanish, 6. Peregrine Falcon, 7. Mercury, 8. Red, White and Blue, 9. 21, 10. 7. ma y
Scan this code and sign up for free today THE WORLD AWAITS AT UNBEATABLE RATES Introducing the Raring2go! Travel Club, bringing you one online destination for all your family travel needs. Member benefits include: • Up to 60% off over 600,000 hotels • 50,000+ private, group and tailor-made tours • Weekly resort stays from £299 • Savings on 345,000+ activities • Member preferred car hire rates • Competitive flight prices Sign up for FREE today
Raring2go! COMPETITIONS A chance to WIN! Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum Win a family ticket to visit Thinktank, Birmingham’s award winning science museum for a fun packed family day out. With over 200 hands-on displays on science and technology. Closing Date 23 July 2023 Stratford Upon Avon Butterfly Farm Win a family ticket plus children’s activity guide. Come rain or shine enjoy the unique pleasure of discovering hundreds of the world’s most beautiful butterflies flying in an exotic environment of tropical blossom with splashing waterfalls and fish filled pools. Closing Date 23 July 2023 30 raring2go.co.uk Drayton Manor Resort Win a family pass to visit Drayton Manor. Ride on Thomas and Percy’s Submarine Splash, a brand new flume ride perfect for little Thomas and Friends fans. Closing Date 23 July 2023
Raring2go! COMPETITIONS Competition Winners Wistow Maze Win a family ticket to visit Wistow Maze this Summer. Wistow Maze will be designed in the shape of sea turtle in 2023 to highlight the problems facing the world’s marine wildlife. Closing Date 23 July 2023 Enter these and many more competitions online at raring2go.co.uk. Make sure you select where you are to see competitions in your local area. Hatton Adventure World Eleanor (6) and Lucy (5) Perry, Holywell Primary School Complete cricket Caitlin McKenzie, 10, St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School Bad Dad Outdoor Theatre James Greer, 8, Greswold Primary School Skate Hut Jennifer Higgins 31 COMPETITION TERMS & CONDITIONS: Enter the competitions online at www.raring2go.co.uk/ solihull/competitions. The winner will be the first correct entry or entries drawn at random. No cash alternative. The winner will be notified by phone or email. Full terms and conditions are available online at www.raring2go.co.uk/competition-terms. Lower Drayton Farm Win a family ticket for 4 people to visit Lower Drayton Farm. As well as the indoor and outdoor play areas and friendly animals to meet you can also head into the Dino Discovery Maize Maze and help the dino wranglers find their missing charges. Closing Date 23 July 2023 Ackers Adventure Robyn Barks
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDA0NjA=