SOLIHULL MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk WINTER 2024 WHAT’S ON? P18 CLUBS & CLASSES P5 COMPETITIONS P30
"Best Children's Sports Camp Provider 2023 - West Midlands" If you're NEW to Super Sports then we'd love you to give us a try. To make that as simple as possible, we're offering your child a FREE DAY! Simply scan the QR code, fill in a quick form and you'll be sent a code to book your FREE DAY with us. “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, 2023 “Well organised. Friendly. Excellent coaching. Able to really engage the children. Children have so much fun while learning new skills. Value for money. Can’t praise it enough.” Parent, 2023 Scan here for your FREE DAY WHY CHOOSE SUPER SPORTS? The ONLY holiday camp in Solihull providing elite coaching across multiple sports New to Super Sports? FREE DAY on us! New to Super Sports? FREE DAY on us! info@teamsupersports.co.uk 01675 488494 HAVE A FREE DAY AT CAMP ON US! GYMNASTICS FOOTBALL NETBALL TENNIS RUGBY CRICKET HOCKEY Solihull School - February Half Term 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 WWW.TEAMSUPERSPORTS.CO.UK
4 raring2go.co.uk • 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 © 2024 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 Clubs and Classes...........................5 Preschool..........................................13 Parties. .............................................15 A-Z of things to do...........................16 What’s On?.......................................18 Competitions................................... 30 Raring2go! EDITOR’S WELCOME Hello 2024! It can be really tempting to pull the curtains and hide away indoors when the weather is cold and dark outside but there are still so many things going on to keep the family entertained. There are lots of ideas for places to go and things to do in this edition as well as some amazing local clubs and classes to get involved with over the next few months. Sit down and spend a few minutes having a browse through and see what your kids might like to try this year. Make sure you keep an eye on our website too – there are local events and news being added all the time. Nicola, Editor Follow us on social media to keep up to date all year with your local #gotoguide for families. Raring2goSolihull Raring2goSolihull raring2gosolihull
5 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 Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Clubs & Classes Ackers Adventure An array of activities for 8 – 18 year olds to try at camps every school holiday. Adventurous activities include bushcraft, skiing, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, zip wire, fan descender, bell boating, disc golf and tubing. 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 SAVE OVER 20% ON YOUR FEES AND GET YOUR 1ST SESSION FREE! REGISTERED Smart 11+ have been wonderful from day one. They have really encouraged my daughter and boosted her confidence in preparation for the 11+ exam. There’s no doubt that their support has contributed to her success. Sachin Jethwa Our daughter enjoyed her experience with tutoring and always felt happy to attend. The tutors were approachable and knowledgeable. As parents we found it to be professional, friendly and a happy space for the children. Any questions were always well received and the the team dealt with queries swiftly and competently. It was a nurturing environment where she felt comfortable and gained confidence. Chris Northall Lessons were well structured and our daughter always came home with a smile on her face. The tutors and expertise has given our daughter so much confidence that when it came to the actual exam she was calm and composed. Samantha Morris What our parents say... BOOK YOUR CHILD'S FREE ASSESSMENT TODAY *Not the normal small print. We are extremely confident that your child will love our tuition, so following your free assessment you can decide THEN if you wish to sign up. The first session free is available for all new customers signing up and quoting Raring2Go. Over 20% off fees is available for new customers signing up for a full membership for two sessions per week. We also have options for people who wish to have one session per week. You are protected by our no-risk two-week guarantee. Check out the front page for more information about our outstanding tuition!
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 6 raring2go.co.uk Choice of venues and activities *Offer ends 5pm Friday 2nd February Ofsted registered Action-packed childcare this February Half Term Open from 8am - 6pm BOOK ONLINE Monday 12th - Friday 16th February 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 FEB24SO
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 7 www.everyoneactive.com/swim-lessons Start your swim lesson journey with us Everyone Active manages these facilities in partnership with Solihull Borough Council. Tudor Grange Leisure Centre 0121 705 6371 North Solihull Sports Centre 0121 770 3822 27529_Raring 2 Go - Solihull FP Jan Swimming.indd 1 28/11/2023 16:47
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 9 JOIN OUR BABY SWIM PROGRAMME LESSONS AVAILABLE FOR 3 MONTHS + RECEPTION.GSA@HOTMAIL.COM / 0121 704 4693 GSA SWIM CENTRE, VULCAN RD, SOLIHULL,B91 2JY Creative Courage For Life® Singing, dancing and acting classes for year-olds Find your fearless 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. 0121 745 4007 John Henry Newman College, B37 5GA www.stagecoach.co.uk/coleshill Stagecoach Coleshill 4 - 16
Raring2go! READING 10 raring2go.co.uk Book Reviews Bookseller, Deborah from Kenilworth Books gives us a round up of some of the best books new out for children of all ages! Knight Sir Louis and the Sinister Snowball by The Brothers McLeod “Absolutely hilarious nonsense!” Louie Stowell In the fourth hilarious story about the brilliant, calm, ingenious 12-year-old Knight Sir Louis, Splint the Sinister Snowball has his icy eyes set on world domination with the help of his frosty siblings, Flint, Hint, Mint, Clint and Sharon. But champion dragon-slayer Louis isn’t about to let Castle Sideways become smothered in snow! Louis rides off to the legendary Brrrrrland with his friends, Reader Catalogue and Clunkalot, but waiting for them are goofy goblins, a talking carrot and the biggest meanest snowball in the whole wide world… Bursting with illustrations. The Superpets (and Me!) by Professor Noel Fitzpatrick Amazing True Stories of Incredible Animals from the Nation’s Favourite Supervet Discover the incredible stories of the brave animals he has worked with, from Peanut, the world’s first cat with two front bionic limbs, to Betsy, the sixmonth-old cockapoo, who was given a new lease of life when her crushed paw was replaced with a skateboard wheel! The perfect gift for young animal-lovers, packed with true tales that celebrate kindness, perseverance and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals. Kenilworth Books, Talisman Square, Kenilworth CV8 1JB Mermedusa by Thomas Taylor Perhaps here, finally, they - and the Malamander too - will discover the Deepest Secret of Eerie-on-Sea. Herbie and Violet’s fifth gripping adventure brings the internationally bestselling Eerie-on-Sea series to a heartstopping climax. It is midwinter once again, and the hosts of a paranormal podcast have descended on Eerie-on-Sea eager for a sighting of the legendary Malamander. Herbert Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, is feeling uneasy - and not just because of the visitors. Fletcher and the Seasons by Julia Rawlinson and Tiphanie Beeke Fletcher’s first ever board book is out now - Fletcher and the Seasons, published by Graffeg and gloriously illustrated by Tiphanie Beeke. ‘Fletcher journeys through the year exploring how the seasons change in this delightful board book featuring the characters from the popular Fletcher’s Four Seasons picture books.’ The Eyebrows of Doom by Steve Smallman “WE ARE THE EYEBROWS OF DOOM!” The Eyebrows of Doom are trying to take over the world! Join Dave and his friends as they try to stop them leaping from one unsuspecting animal to the next. And just when it looks as though the eyebrows’ antics have been thwarted. This hilarious rhyming romp will have readers young and old laughing out loud and is perfect for fans of Steve Smallman’s Poo in the Zoo series, Nibbles The Book Monster, You Can’t Take an Elephant on the Bus and Oi Frog!
Raring2go! FOSTERING 11 What Sets Us Apart: Children Always First stands out for its family-centric and therapeutic approach, placing the well-being of children as our number one priority. Rooted in family values, we provide an extensive youth support service and individualised care that ensures each child feels seen, heard and loved. The Support You Deserve: Becoming a foster carer is a transformative journey and we walk alongside you at every turn. Our dedicated team offers extensive support, from quality training, personalised guidance and a 24hour support telephone line. By nurturing a strong support system, we empower our carers to provide the best possible care for their children and young people. Enriching Experiences: Foster care for us, is about creating positive memories that last a lifetime. Our dedicated youth team provide exciting outings, educational activities, and a range of youth support services to ensure every child in our care has the opportunity to thrive, grow, and discover their full potential Join Our Compassionate Community: Children Always First is an invitation to be part of a community that believes in the transformative power of nurture and support. If you have a spare bedroom, a willingness to learn, and the dedication to make a difference then we welcome you to come and learn more. Ready for Change? Embark on a fulfilling journey with Children Always First. Becoming a foster carer will make an incredible difference to young people, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Together, let’s create a brighter future for children in need. www.childrenalwaysfirst.co.uk Embark on a fulfilling journey with Children Always First Every year in the UK, over 30,000 children come into care and need a foster home. At Children Always First, we are committed to creating a brighter future for children who need it most and are looking for more foster families to join us in our shared mission.
Raring2go! CHILDCARE 12 raring2go.co.uk The government’s recently announced update to its childcare support system aims to allow more parents greater access to detailed and personalised information about what they and their children are entitled to. An Eligibility checker childcarechoices.gov.uk now provides details on the support available to families, based on factors such as the child's age and family income. The government's largest-ever investment in childcare aims to save working parents up to £6,500 per year for those using 30 hours of childcare. Additionally, £100 million has been earmarked to areas around the UK to increase childcare settings' physical space and create thousands of new childcare places across the country. The Education Secretary strongly emphasised the government's commitment to providing accessible and flexible childcare, addressing the many challenges faced by working parents. The initiative includes offering quality childcare outside of school hours and increasing early years places where needed. Parents and care providers are encouraged to visit the Childcare Choices website to determine their eligibility for the various support options. As part of the childcare plan, £289 million has been allocated to local authorities from the wraparound childcare fund, ensuring primary school children can access childcare between 8 am and 6 pm. The goal is to achieve universal access to wraparound childcare for primary age school children in all areas by 2026. This announcement aligns with the Department for Work and Pensions' recent increase in monthly childcare support for parents on Universal Credit, reaching up to £951 for one child or £1,630 for two or more children. To add further support to childcare options, the childminder start-up grant scheme will open for applications by November 30, 2023. This grant, which ranges from £600 to £1,200, has at its core the aim of encouraging more individuals to register as childminders and offer wider, more flexible childcare solutions. Simultaneously, the Department for Education has responded to the early years foundation stage (EYFS) consultation by implementing a range of changes to reduce regulatory burdens and to enhance the early years workforce. These adjustments, such as allowing managers to decide if students and apprentices can count in ratios, demonstrate the ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, affordable childcare that aligns with parents' working lives. The comprehensive approach to childcare will be discussed at the early years British Irish council, emphasizing the collaborative efforts across member administrations. This synopsis has been prepared as a quick reference guide and is not definitive. For further information plus details on what you and your children are entitled to please visit: www.childcarechoices.gov.uk Revolutionising Childcare in the UK: A guide to recent changes and investment Revolutionising Childcare in the UK: A guide to recent changes and investment
Pre-School Raring2go! PRE-SCHOOL Everyone Active Swimming Lessons At Everyone Active, we offer a total of 11 stages of swimming lessons for children aged from just four months old. Available at Tudor Grange and North Solihull Leisure Centre. www.everyoneactive.com 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 Bilinguasing At BilinguaSing, we are passionate about children being introduced to a second language from as young as possible. We know that music, movement and sensory experiences are fundamental to children’s development, which is what makes our language classes different. Locally we offer classes for children aged 0-4 in 4 different languages: French, Spanish, German and Italian. joy@bilinguasing.com or Joy on 07780466528 www.bilinguasing.com Music Monsters We are a familyrun 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 George’s Swim Academy Swimming classes for children from 3 months old. All of our classes for under 3’s are with you in the water with them. All over 3’s go in the water without you, with one of our instructors. Contact: reception.gsa@hotmail.com 13
Raring2go! READING 14 raring2go.co.uk 1 .co.uk Raring2go! 1. Voxblock boosts literacy skillsListening to stories helps develop a child's vocabulary, comprehension, and language skills. 2. Voxblock is ready-to-play straight from the boxFree from Wifi and with no set-up - just press play! 3. Voxblock has hundreds of audiobooks Introduce children to a world of stories through a huge audiobook library. 4. Voxblock develops independence The player is easy-to-use and with no need for grown-ups, children can take control. 5. Voxblock is a gift that keeps giving Children enjoy Voxblock for years, not hours. Begin with a Voxblock Starter pack, it includes a Voxblock player and three audiobooks for £59.99. Buy at voxblock.co.uk reasons Voxblock makes the perfect audio player for kids. Meet Voxblock: the easy-to-use screen-free audiobook player for children 3-12. Designed by parents, it empowers children to listen to audio stories independently. starter pack 99 £5 p £59. b aud the 00% connectivity free ong battery life build your child’s literacy as it's unwrapped ready-to-play as soon diobook player e screen-free voxblock.co.uk 1 lo a r
Party Time! The Pink Pamper Lounge We believe that every child deserves to be pampered! Our pink venue offers everything you could wish for and more to turn your pamper party or spa day into an unforgettable experience. Our treatments include bubbly foot spa’s, refreshing facials, colourful hair braids, painted nails and glitter tattoos. We offer the ultimate pamper party packages to keep youngsters entertained with plenty of fun and sparkles. 0121 822 0028/ Info@thepinkpamperlounge.co.uk www.thepinkpamperlounge.co.uk 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 Jump In & Rush Trampoline Parks Birthdays just got bouncy. Lots of different packages available to enjoy one of these trampoline parks with your friends. Discounts available for weekday parties. www.gojumpin.com www.rushuk.com 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 15 Raring2go! PARTIES
Raring2go! THINGS TO DO The Raring2go! A-Z of places to go and things to do with your child A1 B3 C3 D2 E1 F4 G2 H4 I 1 J8 K5 L1 M3 N1 O1 P3 Q10 R1 S1 T1 U1 Try a new ACTIVITY together at Ackers Adventure. Choose from skiing, toboganning, tubing and so many more. 1 3 3 2 1 4 2 4 I 1 8 5 1 3 1 1 3 10 1 1 1 1 Watch a BUTTERFLY emerge from its chrysalis at Stratford Butterfly Farm and explore the tropical paradise CREATE your own pottery masterpiece at a Fired Crafts workshop A1 B3 C3 D2 E1 F4 G2 H4 I 1 J8 K5 L1 M3 N1 O1 P3 Q10 R1 S T U JUMP and bounce the winter blues away at JumpIn, Warwick or Rush, Birmingham Trampoline Parks A1 B3 C3 D2 E1 F4 G2 H4 I 1 J8 K5 L1 M3 N1 O1 P Q1 R Let your IMAGINATION take over with a role play session at Solihull Play Town D2 E1 F4 G2 H4 I 1 J8 K5 L1 M3 N1 O1 P3 Q10 R1 S1 T1 U1 V4 W4 X8 Y4 Z10 1 Adopt a rescued HORSE at Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Oxhill A1 B3 C3 D2 E1 F4 G2 H4 I 1 J8 K5 L1 M3 N1 O1 P3 Q10 R1 S1 T1 U1 V W X Wrap up warm and visit the grounds of Compton Verney. Treat yourself to a hot drink and snack in the café after exploring the OUTDOOR space and adventure playground. A1 B3 C3 D2 E1 F4 G2 H4 I 1 J8 K5 L1 M3 N1 O1 P3 Q10 R1 S1 T1 U1 V4 W4 X8 DISCOVER a new park or playground in your area Introduce your child to the KITCHEN with a parent and child cooking class at Becketts Farm 1 3 3 2 1 4 2 4 1 8 5 1 3 1 1 3 10 1 1 1 1 4 4 8 EXPERIENCE the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of the shops, houses, and industrial workshops of the Black Country Living Museum Visit your local LIBRARY. Join in with their family activities or just find a new book to enjoy together. 1 3 3 2 1 F4 2 4 I 1 J8 5 L1 3 1 1 3 10 1 1 T1 1 4 4 X8 FEED the Farmyard Favourites at Hatton Adventure World and cuddle up with the creatures in the Guinea Pig Village or Scales and Tails A1 B3 C3 D2 E1 F4 G2 H4 I 1 J8 K5 L1 M3 N1 O1 P3 Q10 R1 S1 T1 U1 V W X Hear the story of the Midlands’ automotive industry from the costumed guides at the British MOTOR Museum 2 1 2 4 I 8 5 3 1 3 10 1 1 4 4 4 10 Tee-off with a round of Adventure GOLF at Four Ashes Golf Centre 1 3 3 2 1 4 2 4 1 8 5 1 3 1 1 3 10 1 1 1 1 Make a list of NEW year resolutions, ideas, and challenges – stick it on the fridge and see if you can achieve them all in 2024 16 raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! THINGS TO DO M3 N1 O1 P3 Q10 R1 S1 T1 U1 V4 W4 X8 Y4 Z10 1 Spend some QUIET time together on the sofa and watch a movie J8 K5 L1 M3 N1 O1 P3 Q10 R1 S1 T1 U1 V4 W4 X8 Y4 Z10 1 Go WILD on a safari drive at West Midland Safari Park M3 N1 O1 P3 Q10 R1 S1 T1 U1 V4 W4 X8 Y4 Z10 1 Take advantage of the option to stay warm and dry indoors while letting off some steam at a soft PLAY centre like Claudie’s Club in Solihull J8 K5 L1 M3 N1 O1 P3 Q10 R1 S1 T1 U1 V4 W4 X8 Y4 Z10 1 Save some money on days out and activities by making use of VOUCHERS and offers. Check out those on the Raring2go! website. P3 Q10 R1 S1 T1 U1 V4 W4 X8 Y4 Z10 1 Explore a magical world of dragons, fairies, wizards, time travel, pirates and possibly a UNICORN at Magic Alley, Stratford 10 10 Get lost in a fantasy world or adventure with a new book to READ together from Kenilworth Books X marks the spot – plan a treasure hunt around your home and/ or garden and challenge the children to find a hidden treasure at the end P3 Q10 R1 S1 T1 U1 V4 W4 X8 Y4 Z10 1 SPLASH your way around the pool and slides at The Wave, Coventry M3 N1 O1 P3 Q10 R1 S1 T1 U1 V4 W4 X8 Y4 Z10 1 Create your own YUMMY delights at a chocolate making workshop with The Chocolate Shed Visit one of our local THEATRES. There are lots of family shows planned at places like The Belgrade, Birmingham Rep, The Alexandra, mac Birmingham 3 1 1 3 10 1 1 1 1 4 4 8 4 10 1 ZOOM into outer space in the 4K Planetarium and discover a world of science at Thinktank, Birmingham 17
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 18 raring2go.co.uk Until 20 January Magic Alley – The Mysterious Disappearance of Mrs Christmas This event is aimed at older children and adults who maybe no longer need to see Father Christmas. The quest requires solving forensic puzzles and at least primary level reading skills. Step into a world of enchantment and intrigue as the Magic Alley Detective Agency presents an extraordinary event: ‘The mysterious disappearance of Mrs Christmas’ Get ready to unleash your inner detective and immerse yourself in a thrilling whodunnit experience, where every clue and forensic puzzle holds the key to unravelling this captivating mystery. www.magicalleystratford.com 24 January onwards Cannock Chase – The Gruffalo Party Trail Celebrate the Gruffalo’s birthday at Cannock Chase Forest. Find the missing party items, pick a present for the Gruffalo and enjoy lots more fun trail activities. www.forestryengland.uk 26 January – 18 February Compton Verney – Spectacle of Light Spectacle of Light will be returning for its third year with brand new installations like the remarkable Wave and other immersive pieces from the team at Squid Soup that brought us Submergence last year. Come and discover the night-time wonder of Compton Verney through an enchanting spectacle of light and sound. www.comptonverney.org.uk 30 January – 4 February Belgrade Theatre – Shrek The Musical Get ready to leave your troubles Far Far Away and embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with laughter, love, and ogre-sized fun. Join Shrek and his trusty sidekick Donkey as they set out on a quest to defeat the fearsome dragon and rescue the beautiful Princess Fiona. With a heartwarming story and a cast of unforgettable characters, this musical extravaganza is a journey you won’t want to miss. www.belgrade.co.uk What’s On? Winter 2024 7 – 11 February Belgrade Theatre – Fantastically Great Women Who Changed The World Join our inquisitive heroine Jade as she breaks away from her class to take a peek behind the scenes at the not yet open Gallery of Greatness in the local museum. Along her journey she is surprised to meet the incredible wonder women: Frida Kahlo, Rosa Parks, Amelia Earhart, Mary Seacole, Marie Curie, Emmeline Pankhurst to name just a few. Hear the stories of some independent icons who really did change the world. www.belgrade.co.uk 9 – 10 February Birmingham Rep – Can Bears Ski? Little Bear can’t hear Dad Bear calling, but feels the floor vibrate with heavy footsteps…Little Bear can’t catch the funny joke at school when friends are laughing, but feels the crunch of snow on frozen pavements. Join Little Bear and Dad Bear as they learn how there are many ways to communicate love, and to find your place in the world. www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 19 2024 Celebrate in Solihull town centre Solihull Music Festival Thursday 20th – Sunday 23rd June Solihull Family Festival Friday 2nd – Sunday 4th August Solihull Spooktacular Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th October Solihull Food Festival Friday 27th – Sunday 29th September Dates for diary Scan for more info or go to solihullbid.co.uk #SolihullCelebrates
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 20 raring2go.co.uk 9 – 10 February Belgrade Theatre – A Pirate Adventure Join Pirate Jenny and Parrot Pantstinky, for this interactive show that promises excitement and fun for the whole family. They’re on the lookout for some help from a new pirate crew – That’s YOU! So why not come dressed as a pirate and hop on board the Good Ship Barnacle Bottom for plenty of pirate jigging and singalong songs. There will be games and fun with prizes to be won! www.belgrade.co.uk 10 - 18 February Stratford Butterfly Farm – February Half Term activities The whole family can enjoy the relaxing pleasure of walking amongst some of the world’s most stunning and colourful butterflies in a tropical rainforest setting, complete with fish-filled pools, splashing waterfalls and beautiful blooms. Meet the Mini-Beast handling sessions, Pupae and Beetle demonstrations will be held daily in the Discovery Zone. To guarantee entrance over half term tickets should be purchased in advance from the online booking system. www.butterflyfarm.co.uk 10 – 18 February Hatton Adventure World – Feb Half Term Pantomime Panto returns to Hatton Adventure World this February Half term with Dick Whittington. No need to worry about the weather! Stay warm and dry with out indoor activities including all-day animal handling, guinea pig village, scales and tails exotic animal experiences, a magical family show and our huge indoor soft play and slide mania centre. The action continues outdoors with laser combat battles, falconry displays, mini funfair rides, giant helter skelter and family games, and meet animal friends on the farmyard walk. www.adventure.hattonworld.com What’s On? Winter 2024 13 & 15 February 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 13 – 16 February Aston Hall & Birmingham Rep – Hunt for the Lost Time Machine Something strange is happening at Aston Hall and it’s up to our intrepid team of time travellers to discover what… Birmingham Rep and Aston Hall invite you to take part in a brand-new project for those aged 9-12 this February half term. Expect twists and turns, shocks and surprises as you discover if there really are lost instructions on how to build a time machine! Discover the secrets of Aston Hall guided by the renowned time detective Phileas T. Darkmatter before heading to The Rep to solve the puzzle. Finish the week back at Aston Hall where you’ll take over the place in an exciting and epic conclusion which everyone can get involved in! The project will run 10am – 3pm every day at two sites: Tue 13 Feb: Meet at the entrance to Aston Hall, Wed 14 & Thu 15 Feb: Meet at stage door at Birmingham Rep, Fri 16 Feb: Meet at the entrance to Aston Hall. Parents and carers are invited to take part in the epic conclusion with the group at 2pm. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 13 – 18 February NEC Birmingham – Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show Come along to the UK’s largest start of year showcase of motorhomes, campervans, caravans, tents and trailer tents - all under one roof! A day’s visit will enable you to step inside and compare hundreds of new for 2024 leisure vehicles from leading manufacturers, dealers and brands. www.ccmshow.co.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 21 Ha on orl .co Fe Hal Ter Pantomim 10th to 18th Feb Plus Animals Action Adventure Funded by: birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank • • 4k Planetarium • Outdoor Science Garden
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 22 raring2go.co.uk 16 – 18 February Belgrade Theatre – The Gruffalo’s Child Follow the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission in Tall Stories’ enchanting adaptation of the much-loved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s Child ignores her father’s warnings about the Big Bad Mouse and tiptoes out into the deep dark wood. She follows snowy tracks and encounters mysterious creatures – but the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist… does he? www.belgrade.co.uk 10 March Royal Spa Centre – The Chimpanzees of Happytown The much-loved story of Chutney the Chimp is brought to life through Paul Rissman‘s brilliant live music and colourful projected illustrations, captivatingly performed by the wonderfully dynamic and hugely engaging Ensemble 360 and Lucy Drever. This concert is a great introduction to live music for children. Full of wit, invention, songs and actions, and plenty of opportunities to join in, it is ideal for ages 3-7 but great fun for everyone! www.leamingtonmusic.org 14 – 17 March The Alexandra Theatre – Madagascar The Musical Join all of your favourite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. www.atgtickets.com 18 – 23 March The Alexandra Theatre – Peter Pan Goes Wrong Following their multi award-winning sell-out success with The Play That Goes Wrong and the BBC TV series The Goes Wrong Show, Mischief return with their riotous spin on a timeless classic, the West End smash hit Peter Pan Goes Wrong. The What’s On? Winter 2024 members of the Cornley Drama Society are back on stage, battling technical hitches, flying mishaps and cast disputes as they attempt to present J.M Barrie’s much-loved tale. But will they ever make it to Neverland? www.atgtickets.com 24 February Warwick Racecourse – Fiver Friday Join us to start your weekend for Fiver Friday! This offer is a once in a season opportunity to come racing for just £5. Our feature race of the day is the Feldon Dunsmore Budbrooke Chase which is always a competitive race. Don’t forget under 18’s race for free so it’s a budget busting day out for all the family. www.thejockeyclub.co.uk 26 – 28 March Belgrade Theatre – Zog 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. However, Pearl’s uncle, the King, has other ideas about whether princesses should be doctors, and she’s soon locked up in the castle back in a crown and a silly frilly dress! With a bit of help from some friends and half a pound of cheese, can Pearl make her uncle better and prove princesses can be doctors too? www.belgrade.co.uk 28 March – 1 April NEC Birmingham – Insomnia The Gaming Festival Get ready for the ultimate gaming experience. Insomnia is the festival you don’t want to miss! Immerse yourself in a world of non-stop gaming, with everything from the latest video games to retro classics. Meet fellow gamers, attend panels and meet-and-greets with your favourite creators, and compete in tournaments for prizes. With a huge selection of games to choose from, you’ll never run out of things to do. Try your hand at VR games, test your skills in esports competitions, or get lost in the world of tabletop games. Plus there will be live performances, cosplay competitions, and the latest gaming gear in our marketplace. Don’t miss out on the ultimate gaming event of the year. www.insomniagamingfestival.com
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 23 Claudie’s Club Soft Play VISIT US claudiesclub.simplybook.it 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
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 24 raring2go.co.uk Whether you are 4 or 54, all the exciting and unique activities mean you are guaranteed to leave with a huge smile on your face! The adventure park added new attractions in 2023 with more to come – which means even if you’ve been before, it’s absolutely worth another trip soon! It now boasts the UK’s largest indoor Slide Park – essentially a dry version of a waterpark with different slides to choose from. Are you brave enough to drop into the steep launch slide and fly into the air? Or go head-to-head with friends on the racing slides then run back up the stairs to try the new Whoop slides as well! The latest addition is the brand new Airena, an airtracked football pitch with digital targets where you can take on your friends in fast and furious games of football. On Friday and Saturday evenings, two-hour After Dark Sessions turn the park into the bounciest night club in town – and what’s even better, it’s a full 120 minutes of jumping for only £18.50. During the week, there’s the bargain UNLIMTED After School Jump offer Monday to Thursday after 3pm, term time only. New UV party rooms will glow up your next Jump In party! Choose a Jump In party package for an unforgettable and hassle-free birthday celebration. 100%-Fun-Zero-Stress! Each package includes a party host that will take care of the birthday party while parents can relax in the café - decorations and clean up are also all taken care of. Party planning couldn’t be easier. School trips, youth group days outs, and corporate team building can all be catered for with group package options, starting at £10pp. Organised youth groups can even have a sleepover! Bespoke sessions can also be created, perfect for a party with a difference! Why not give the gift of jumping for joy! It’s hard to wrap happiness but Jump In has found the perfect solution with their fun gift bags and gift cards. Gift bags contain a free 60-minute bounce pass, grip socks, and variety of merchandise in a reusable drawstring bag. Only available for collection in the park. E-gift cards can be ordered & sent online in values of your choosing, starting at £15. Bounce your way over to Jump In Warwick. The perfect escape from the cold weather for all the family!
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 25 Together, let’s make it count The RSPB is a registered charity in Eng and and Wales 207076, in Scot and SC037654. Robin by Mark Sisson (rspb-images.com) Every birdwatch ma ers Join hundreds of thousands of others and take part in Big Garden Birdwatch - the UK’s argest citizen science wildlife survey. Sign up, connect with nature and make your birdwatch count. P ay your part at www.rspb.org.uk Big Garden Birdwatch 26-28 January 2024 BGBW24_A5 Portrait_English_RSPB URL_AW_v1.indd 1 09/11/2023 18:19
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Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 28 raring2go.co.uk
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Raring2go! COMPETITIONS A chance to WIN! Squirrel at MAC Birmingham Win a family ticket to see the beautiful family show, Squirrel, at MAC Birmingham in February. Closing date 1 February Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum Win a family ticket for 4 people to visit Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum. Closing date 9 February 2024 30 raring2go.co.uk Stratford Upon Avon Butterfly Farm Win a family ticket for 2 adults plus 2 children (or 1 adult and 3 children) to visit Stratford Butterfly Farm and receive a Children’s Activity Book Closing date 9 February 2024 Chimpanzees of Happytown Win a family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children to see The Chimpanzees of Happytown at The Royal Spa Centre, Leamington on 10 March 2024 at 11:30am. Closing date 9 February 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.
Raring2go! COMPETITIONS Competition Winners The Old Rep (Peter Pan) Jennifer Gardner The Alex (Peter Pan) Kate Somers Lower Drayton Farm Joe (9) and Niamh (6) Dubberley, Our Lady of Compassion School Black Country Living Museum Emma Williams West Midland Safari Park Hannah Beasant Touchwood Ewan Tombleson, 14 Arden Academy Lower Drayton Farm Win a family ticket for 4 to visit the Lambs and Ewe event at Lower Drayton Farm which will run from 10 February to 22 March. Closing date 31 January 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. Tikkers Kelly Thomas Mac Birmingham (Starchitects Save Christmas) Jo MacMillan Festive Gift Fair Julie Nye, Margaret Crathorn
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