SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk SUMMER 2025 CLUBS & CLASSES P14 WHAT’S ON? P5 COMPETITIONS P30
Raring2go! HOLIDAY CLUBS 2 raring2go.co.uk Tax-Free Childcare & Childcare Vouchers Accepted DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE 10% Early Bird 10% Siblings 20% Full-week for all new customers: for all new customers: FREE DAY FREE DAY Use code AFD24FRZ Simply head to: www.teamsupersports.co.uk/booking Improving skills & having FUN with friends! info@teamsupersports.co.uk 01675 488494 WWW.TEAMSUPERSPORTS.CO.UK/RUGBY ALL SCHOOL HOLIDAYS ALL SCHOOL HOLIDAYS MONDAY TO FRIDAY MONDAY TO FRIDAY Ages 5-16 - children who LOVE sport! Princethorpe College Princethorpe College 8am - 5pm 8am - 5pm
Raring2go! HOLIDAY CLUBS 3 This was my son’s first Team Super Sports Camp, and definitely not his last! Best camp around and super well-organised. Special thanks to the coaches for an awesome program and for their dedication. Parent, Easter 2025 4.9 Google Review ‘Best Multi-Sport Holiday Camps Provider 2025 - Midlands’ acquisition international the voice of modern business - est. 2010 REV I EW RUGBY Unique model! CRICKET FOOTBALL GYMNASTICS HOCKEY NETBALL TENNIS Players CHOOSE a sport each session focusing on improving skills & game play.
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 © 2025 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! Raring2go! EDITOR’S WELCOME Contents Page What’s On?.......................................5 Clubs and Classes...........................14 Why is sport important...................20 Parties. ............................................ 24 Preschool..........................................27 Competitions................................... 30 Summertime is here After an unusually dry and sunny Spring, fingers crossed that the Summer lives up to these high standards and delivers lots of opportunities for fun in the sunshine. This edition of Raring2go! is packed with lots of ideas for places to go and things to do with children this Summer. From days out to holiday clubs there is so much going on. Take a look through as you make plans for the holidays and don’t forget to take a look at our website where you will find lots more suggestions. Nicola, Editor Follow us on social media to keep up to date all year with your local #gotoguide for families. Raring2goSouthWarwickshire Raring2goSWarks raring2gosouthwarks
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 5 SUNDAY 24 FRIDAY 22 SATURDAY 23 FAMILYFAVES CIRCUS SKILLS MICHELIN BIG WHEEL TRADITIONAL FUNFAIR THRILL RIDES CRECHE & SOFT PLAY CRAZY GOLF & GARDEN GAMES MINI MONSTER TRUCKS FACEPAINTING SCIENCE WORKSHOPS SILENT DISCO & DANCE COMPETITIONS HISTORIC F1 CARS TOURING CARS GT CARS SPORTS CARS PLUS WORLD CHAMPIONS COLLECTION DISPLAY ONTRACK DIDDLY SQUAT FARM SHOP LOCAL ARTISAN MARKET TASTING TENT SILVERSTONE KITCHEN LIVE HEADLINING CELEBRATED CHEFS INCLUDING GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF AND MASTERCHEF WINNERS FEST FOODIE FANZONE THOUSANDS OF CLASSIC CARS HOT AIR BALLOON NIGHT GLOW BMX & SKATE SHOWS F1 SIMULATORS HOT RODS & DRAGSTERS AUCTIONS STUNT & RALLY SHOWS YOUNG DRIVER LESSONS SHOPPING VILLAGE PLUS TICKETS FROM £35 KIDS UNDER 16 GO FREE! SILVERSTONE.CO.UK @SILVERSTONEFESTIVAL
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 6 raring2go.co.uk 20 – 22 June Solihull Music Festival The landmark free music festival in the heart of Solihull town centre. There will be music of all genres to enjoy at this FREE family event with the main stage in Mell Square and over 15 venues around the town centre hosting the action. The Continental Street Market, organised by RR Events, will also be in town with live music accompanying the delicious market delights. Catch some fantastic artists on the Mell Square stage or enjoy more intimate performances in some of Solihull town centre’s best hospitality venues. All performances are FREE! www.solihullbid.co.uk 4 – 6 July Compton Verney – Children’s Building Society The outdoor build where children are in charge and give jobs to the adults. Children and their grownups will use hammers, saws, drills and wood to construct either a life-size castle, boat or aeroplane. www.comptonverney.org.uk 19 July Weoley Castle – Medieval Day A special event where you’ll learn what life was like in medieval Birmingham with re-enactors, battle displays, guided tours, face painting, Warhammer activities and much more! www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 19 – 20 July Kenilworth Castle – Family History Weekend Get hands on with history at Kenilworth Castle’s Family History Weekend and learn about Elizabeth What’s On? Summer 2025 I’s visit in 1575. Have a go at junior jousting, sword skills training, and explore the castle on a family friendly story walk. www.english-heritage.org.uk 19 July – 1 September Hatton Adventure World – Great Summer Adventure This year, they’re bringing even more excitement to your summer with brand-new attractions, bigger adventures, and all your favourite activities – and there’s plenty more! www.adventure.hattonworld.com 19 July – 1 September Stratford Butterfly Farm – 40th anniversary celebrations This year marks a very special milestone for Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm who are proudly celebrating 40 years since they first opened their doors to the public. Come and experience the magic, walk among the butterflies, and help us continue our mission of education, conservation, and inspiration. Throughout the summer holidays there will be competitions, butterfly life cycle, minibeast, beetle mania and pupae demonstrations, and the launch of an exciting new exhibition. www.butterflyfarm.co.uk 21 July – 29 August Thinktank - Rocket Lab Mon, Weds and Fri. This summer, come and celebrate the new Space Vaults exhibition with an out-of-this-world rocket-building activity! Get creative with the learning team as you design and construct your very own paper rocket, then put it to the test with a rocket launcher. Use your engineering skills to make it as aerodynamic as possible—how far will it fly? 3…2…1… Blast off! www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 21 July – 31 August Thinktank – Moonbase Construction Zone Unleash your creativity as you use Imagination Playground blocks to design and construct your very own moonbase. Whether you’re a young space enthusiast or a budding engineer, this hands-on activity invites you to think big and dream even bigger. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 7 SUMMER THE GREAT FOAM PARTY MAIZE MAZE HATTONWORLD.COM ADVENTURE NEW & MUCH MUCH MORE! 19th Jul - 1st Sep
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 8 raring2go.co.uk 21 July – 14 September Wistow Maze Mon 21 July - Sun 31 Aug (daily), then weekends only until Sun 14 Sept. To mark the 200th Anniversary of the modern railway, Leicestershire’s famous Wistow Maze has been designed in the shape of a steam train. The giant 8-acre maize maze has a fun Quiz Trail hidden amongst 3 miles of pathways, with high-level bridges and towers giving stunning panoramic views. 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. www.wistow.com 22 July – 26 August Weoley Castle – Nature Explorers Every Tuesday. Nature Explorers is back at an allnew venue! A summer of forest fun and adventure with our Forest School certified leaders. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 22 July – 28 August Thinktank – Stargazers Storytime Tuesdays and Thursdays. A special reading of Look Up! by Nathan Bryon (published by Puffin) and illustrated by Dapo Adeola—a heartwarming and inspiring tale about the power of curiosity, the beauty of the night sky, and the joy of sharing it with others. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 23 – 27 July Birmingham Museums - Birmingham Jazz and Blues Festival Celebrate the 41st year of the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival with a series of pop-up performances What’s On? Summer 2025 across five of the Birmingham Museum sites. Experience live music in these iconic spaces and discover jazz in some of Birmingham’s most beautiful locations. Full Programme: 23rd - Thinktank, 24th - Blakesley Hall, 25th - Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, 26th - Sarehole Mill, 27th - Aston Hall. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 24 – 26 July Belgrade Theatre – The Koala Who Could Based on the bestselling picture book about taking a chance. An empowering and chuckle-outloud story about embracing change — whether we like it or not. www.belgrade.co.uk 24 July – 28 August Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery – My First Museum Tour Thursdays. Join Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery where they are hoping to give families the opportunity to join a relaxed, child friendly tour of the museum. Discuss what makes a museum, discover part of the history behind the museum, examine the exhibits and most importantly, help to orientate yourselves so that you know how to make the most of your visit. The Museum and Art Gallery has many opportunities for families to enjoy themselves, from reading corners, spaces for drawing, displayed inspirational artwork and to finish it all off, a welcoming cafe. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 25 July – 29 August Resorts World Birmingham – Dino Fridays Stomp into the Summer holidays with new free dino adventures every Friday. Also hunts, crafts and colouring. www.resortsworldbirmingham.co.uk 29 & 31 July, 12 & 14 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 Creative inventions Kinetic sculptures Interactive marvels Fun-filled experience www.themadmuseum.co.uk Discover The MAD Museum in Stratford upon Avon, a playful handson adventure filled with moving machines, quirky inventions and imaginative engineering for all ages.
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 10 raring2go.co.uk 2 August Aston Hall - DESIblitz Truck Art Bus: the Museum on Wheels This summer, Birmingham Museums brings objects and handling pieces to you with a unique cultural experience like no other. In the grounds of Aston Hall, a special free event featuring the vibrant DESIblitz Truck Art Bus, transformed into a mobile museum for the day! www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 2 – 6 August Birmingham Rep – In the Night Garden Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends are back in their fun-filled live show Igglepiggle’s Busy Day! Join Igglepiggle as he looks for his friends in the Night Garden by following their funny sounds until he finds them all! www.birmingham-rep.co.uk 4 – 31 August The Other Place, Stratford-Upon-Avon – The Two Gentlemen of Verona A love triangle, a forest, disguises, and a dog – The Two Gentlemen of Verona has it all. Shakespeare’s gloriously silly story of love, friendship and growing up bursts on to the stage of The Other Place in a new 80-minute edit that’s the perfect introduction to Shakespeare for families. www.rsc.org.uk 5 – 6 August St John’s House – St John’s Playhouse Due to popular demand, they are turning St Johns House into a life size playhouse again this summer. Bring your friends and family for day out and bring a picnic. Play and explore the different themes throughout the house and garden. Take part in crafts, messy play, story time with Warwickshire Libraries, creative building, outdoor games, dressing up and lots more. Where will your imagination take you? Activities suitable for ages 1 – 7 years. Children aged 12+ months need a ticket. Ice creams/lollies, hot and cold drinks will What’s On? Summer 2025 be available to buy, cash only. In the event of wet weather there will be limited indoor spaces for lunch cover. Tickets: £8 per child, £4 per adult + booking fee. Spaces are limited, please book in advance. www.heritage.warwickshire.gov.uk 21 August Thinktank – Stellar Space Day Celebrate the arrival of their newest exhibition, Space Vault, with an out-of-this-world day filled with intergalactic fun and creativity. Whether you’re a budding astronaut, a young space engineer, or simply a starry-eyed explorer, there’s something for everyone at this exciting event. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk 21 – 30 August Birmingham Rep – The Boy With Wings When Tunde sprouts wings and learns that his father is a ferocious alien warrior, he’s all that stands between the galaxy and total destruction – suddenly his parents and school aren’t all he has to contend with. Luckily, his rag-tag group of pals have got his back, and with his new powers, Tunde is ready to fly in the face of danger – this is his destiny. No pressure then… Age 7+. www.birmingham-rep.co.uk 22 – 24 August Silverstone Festival Epic track battles, festival vibes, three nights of great live music, and so much for the whole family to enjoy together. Your August Bank Holiday plans, sorted. www.silverstone.co.uk 23 – 25 August Kenilworth Castle – Knights’ Tournament Go back in time and get up close to the action as rival knights compete in the ultimate test of strength and skill. Four armoured knights and their squires will clash in four gruelling rounds, and you’ll be transported back to the 13th century as you experience the pageantry, excitement and action. www.english-heritage.org.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 11 • Rocket Lab • Stellar Space Day • Funded by: birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank BMT-CuriosityCampaign_Raring2Go_128x89mm.indd 1 02/05/2025 14:34 Our other summer activities listed at heritage.warwickshire.gov.uk ST JOHN’S PLAYHOUSE Due to popular demand, we are turning St Johns House into a life size playhouse again this summer. Bring your friends and family for day out and bring a picnic. Play and explore the different themes throughout the house and garden. Take part in crafts, messy play, story time with Warwickshire Libraries, creative building, outdoor games, dressing up and lots more. 5th - 6th August • 10am - 3pm £8 per child, £4 per adult + booking fee. Spaces are limited, please book in advance at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/heritageboxoffice For ages 1 – 7. Children aged 12m+ need a ticket.
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 12 raring2go.co.uk 4 Gently move your hands and feet to help you float. 2 Lean back to keep your mouth and nose out of the water. 3 Push your belly up and stretch out your arms and legs into a star shape. 1 Keep calm. Don’t swim hard. Hold onto anything that floats. 5 Do this until you feel more relaxed. When you’re calm, raise your arm and shout for help. Swim to safety if you can. 6 The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea The Royal National Lifeboat Institution, a charity registered in England and Wales (209603), Scotland (SC037736), the Republic of Ireland (CHY 2678 and 20003326), the Bailiwick of Jersey (14), the Isle of Man (1308 and 006329F), the Bailiwick of Guernsey and Alderney, of West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ If you get in trouble in the water, don’t panic – follow these steps: LEARN TO FLOAT 31 August Alexandra Theatre – Dinosaurs Live Ever since they were first identified in the 1800s, dinosaurs have sparked the imagination of kids and adults alike and for the first time ever, the worldrenowned Natural History Museum has teamed up with Mark Thompson Productions to take you on a dinosaur adventure like no other. www.atgtickets.com 6 – 7 September Solihull Pride Solihull is set to make history with the launch of its very first Pride event this September, bringing a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and diversity to the town centre. A spectacular day of inclusivity, joy, and unity for people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities. The two-day event will offer a series of events and activities, including a colourful What’s On? Summer 2025 parade, live music performances and special guests including award-winning cabaret artist Fatt Butcher and celebrity hairdressers Royston Blythe and Nick Malenko. Visitors will also be able to tickle their tastebuds at the Continental Street Market. www.solihullbid.co.uk 9 October Belgrade Theatre – The Nutcracker Following last year’s phenomenal success, Imperial Classical Ballet is delighted to return to the Belgrade with their breath-taking production of The Nutcracker. www.belgrade.co.uk 14 – 18 October Belgrade Theatre – The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical When 16 year old Percy Jackson discovers that he is the half-blood son of the Greek God, Poseidon, his life takes a dramatic turn as he is plunged into a world much bigger than he could possibly have imagined. Following a record-breaking run in London, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is coming to the Belgrade. www.belgrade.co.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 13 Book now belgrade.co.uk 24 – 26 JUL 14 – 18 OCT 9 OCT
14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Clubs & Classes 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 Aspire Sports Aspire Active Camps provide sports and activity childcare during every school holiday at venues throughout the Midlands. Tel: 0121 663 1426 www.aspire-sports.co.uk Everyone Active Swimming lessons available for children of all ages and abilities. Available at leisure centres across Warwickshire. www.everyoneactive.com Fitt4Kids FITT4Kids holds football and Multi Sports clubs during the school holidays. At Multi Sports camps we will be enjoying a whole variety of different sports and games throughout the day ie Dodgeball, Benchball, Body cricket, football, hockey and a lot more. Lots of theme days and opportunities to win medals! www.fitt4kids.org.uk GO GO Makers Multi-Activity Holiday Camps for children aged 4-12 years with Art, Sport, Dance, LaserTag & STEM Activities. Go beyond the usual school routine! Our Multi-Activity Holiday Clubs, a haven of enriching activities that support personal growth, creativity, and lifelong friendships. Venues in Leamington, Kenilworth, Warwick and Coventry. www.gogomakers.co.uk Leamington and Warwick Gymnastics Club Our Olympic sized apparatus is there for all to enjoy, under the guidance of our team of British Gymnastics qualified coaches. We firmly believe that all children should get to experience gymnastics in the best facilities with the best coaches, irrespective of their level, experience or ability. Classes available from preschool to Year 9. www.thegymnasticsclub.co.uk Onside Coaching Multi sport, football, dance and forest school holiday camps available in every school holidays at locations across Warwickshire. Tel: 01926 496 406 Email: info@onsidecoaching.co.uk www.onsidecoaching.co.uk Stagecoach Dance, drama and singing for 4 – 16 year olds. Helping to develop confidence, physical awareness, communication and articulation – educational and lots of fun! Sibling discount available. www.stagecoach.co.uk/kenilworth www.stagecoach.co.uk/leamington www.stagecoach.co.uk/warwick The Strings Club Holiday Camps at Kingsley Preparatory School, Leamington. Led by the UK’s best childcare practitioners and string teachers, each day is wonderfully different from instrumental sessions and interactive workshops - ending in a Grand Concert! www.thestringsclub.org Team Super Sports At Team Super Sports, quality is at the heart of everything we do. Passionate about sport, every member of our ‘Team’ of young people join us to improve in their sport(s) while having fun with their friends. We run holiday sports camps during the school holidays for children aged 5-16 at Princethorpe College. We are widely regarded as one of the top holiday camp provider across the Midlands. www.teamsupersports.co.uk
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18 raring2go.co.uk �G� �E��S CONTACT US: Fitt4kids office@fitt4kids.org.uk PENALTY SHOOTOUT CROSSBAR CHALLENGE AGILITY GOLF FOOT GOLF TOURNAMENTS & LOTS MORE FUN MULTI SPORTS DODGEBALL SMOOTHIE BIKES SUMMER OLYMPICS MOVIE DAY TEAM CHALLENGE FOREST SCHOOL NERF WARS ARCHERY & AXE THROWING WATER PLAY INFLATABLE DAY SUMO DAY & LOTS MORE FUN! �E��E�ϒOҳ�N� R��A�� �C��O�� �E��E�ϒOҳ�N� �T ѕO��P�� R��A�� �C��O�� �H��N��H �T ѕO��S R��A�� �C��O�� �E��L��R�� �A�ϒU�� R��A�� �C��O�� �E��I�ЛT�� �P� �T �A�� �M��Cҳ�A�� R��A��, �A���C� �E��G��� R��A�� �C��O�� �A���C� �L� �A��T� Ϙ �F � ѕU��O� �C��O�� �A���C� �E�ЛH Ϙ �F � �C�ϣE��, �I�� �I�� WHERE? WHATS ON? WHEN? SECURE YOUR SPACE TODAY BY VISITING OUR WEBSITE- WWW.FITT4KIDS.ORG.UK 01789339066 ؎ սr�� �a ږ �:��A��1ٍ �0�҅ M � �a��y �o ט i�։ �v��l��l� սr� :��a�҅ E� ϣA� �i��i�։ Ԅ Еu�� ڎ e� ט �i�ԥo ٱ �t� �v��l��l� Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 19 sIgn up nOw fOr our summEr wOrkshOps!! sibling discount & wraparound care available kEnilwOrth, lEamingtOn spA & wArwick kenilworth heart of england school cv7 7fw 28th july - 1st august 5 - 18 year olds matilda jr 10am - 4pm mon - thurs 10am - 8pm fri leamington spa campion school cv31 1qh 28th july - 1st august 5 - 18 year olds school of rock 10am - 4pm mon - thurs 10am - 8pm fri warwick heathcote primary school cv34 7ap 4th - 8th august 5 - 18 year olds matilda jr 10am - 4pm mon - thurs 10am - 8pm fri lEarn and pErfOrm a full musicAl in 5 dAys!! dOes yOur child lOve singing, dAncing and Acting? this is the sUmmEr cAmp fOr thEm!!!
Raring2go! WELLBEING 1. Physical Health Naturally, playing sport will help children become physically fitter, and healthier. Athletes who have experienced a multi-sport background tend not to suffer with as many injuries as those who specialise in a single sport. Their range of movements are greater, and their physical fitness is generally more well-rounded. 2. Healthy Relationships Many children make their first true friendships through sport, find their first role models, and learn from examples set out by their coaches. Why is sport so important You could argue that sport is the single biggest contributor to physical and mental development that a child could ever receive. The benefits for your child reach far further than achieving the highest level or the excitement that comes with winning a cup. Here are 5 reasons why you should think about exploring sporting clubs that may suit your child: Sarah Ginn Head Coach of Herefordshire County Cricket Women’s Team. Head of Girl’s Cricket Berkswell CC and Solihull School. Former coach with Warwickshire Cricket Board. Sophie Grovesnor Swimming teacher at Diamond Swim Academy who represented Great Britain at junior and senior level. What do the experts have to say? We asked some local sports coaches for their top tips for children. These are some of the highlights but head to raring2go.co.uk to read the full interviews. Adam Ruckwood Director of Diamond Swim Academy. Swam for Great Britain at 3 Olympics Games. Won Gold in the 200metres Backstroke at the 1994 Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Canada. “Don’t be put off by social factors. Any child can play any sport. If you love doing something – just enjoy it.” “Attitude is everything! A child who does everything right will overtake the talented child if they don’t have the right attitude!” “Always believe. Never lose sight of your dream. Listen to your coach!” 20 raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! WELLBEING for children? 3. Postitive Character Traits Participation in sport provides children with the perfect space to learn positive values, teamwork, fair play and more. Sport continues to contribute to the development of these character traits in children as they grow up. 4. Enhanced Decision Making When children between the ages of 5-11 are exposed to many different sporting activities, the result can be a better overall skillset and ability to perform at a high level. This, in combination with a smarter, more aware decision-making brain. 5. Developing Resilience Even the most talented athletes will experience set-backs and disappointment. Whether it is missing out on being selected for a team, injury or losing an important match, at the time the emotions can be overwhelming. Learning to deal with these feelings and moving forward, however hard at the time, builds a resilience and positivity. Skills that will stay with young players as they grow into adulthood. Spotlight on Girls’ Football With the Lionesses heading to Switzerland this Summer to defend the Women’s Euro’s title that they won in 2022, we spoke to young up and coming footballer, Keira Johnson about her journey so far. Where do you currently play football? I play for the Chelsea FC Academy U16 team. I have been really lucky this season to get the chance to play with the England U16 squad. Why did you choose football as your sport? How did you get started? I started playing football at Balsall and Berkswell Hornets in Solihull and I loved it. I joined a team with U8 boys when I was in Year 2. They trained in the week and played matches at the weekend - It was lots of fun. What has been the highlight of your career so far? Scoring the winning penalty in a semi final against Real Madrid in Spain to take Chelsea u21’s into the final against Barcelona. And playing for England at U16, of course. Who is your sporting hero? I have lots! I really like Keira Walsh as she plays my position. I think all footballers have to put Messi right up there! What advice would you give your younger self as you started your sporting journey? Make sure you enjoy every minute. It’s fun! What can kids learn from being involved in a sport like yours? Lots of things. Playing football teaches you what it means to be part of a team. Working together and sharing the successes and disappointments that come with sport can lead to amazing friendships. Also, hard work and commitment will really pay off – that is true in sport as well as other areas of your life. Is attitude or talent more important to success? I think attitude is most important. You can be really talented but if you’re not willing to put in the training hours you won’t ever get the results you want to make that next step! Chris Mayer Head of Boys’ Hockey at Solihull School. International hockey player for 10 years representing Team GB at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. ‘Sports like hockey teach teamwork, respect, leadership, accountability and many more important life skills’ 21
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23 Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Onside Coaching Evolves: Financial Solutions for Warwickshire Schools School leaders nationwide are under mounting pressure to find additional revenue streams to support their overstretched budgets. In response, Onside Live, a Warwickshire-based company, is demonstrating how schools can generate significant income by running their own afterschool clubs and wraparound care businesses, rather than outsourcing these services. Onside Live, an offshoot of the established Onside Coaching, provides schools with bespoke booking software and extensive experience to support their initiatives. This innovative approach is the brainchild of Richard Butler, Mark Morrey, and Tom Sidwell, who have been successfully running children’s activities and childcare businesses for 25 years. Director Mark Morrey elaborates, “We’ve launched Onside Live to assist schools in generating income from their own provisions. This support is crucial now more than ever.” He continues, “Primary schools understand the benefits of managing their own services but often find the administrative burden daunting. We not only supply the necessary software to handle admin but also share our expertise on establishing a profitable, sustainable business. Our team handholds schools through the entire process, ensuring they have the guidance and support needed at every step.” Since its inception, Onside Live now supports 18 organisations. The primary school wraparound model has proven particularly effective, with a typical one-form entry primary school able to generate sales between £80,000 and £100,000 in the first year alone, resulting in an annual profit upwards of £40,000. Morrey notes, “That’s sufficient to fund a class teacher or additional support staff. The potential in larger schools is even more impressive.” Priors Field Primary School in Kenilworth is a prime example of Onside Live’s success. After deciding to manage their wraparound care service in-house, the school has seen significant benefits. Katy Braley, Deputy Headteacher at Priors Field, explains, “With Onside Live’s support, we envisioned the full potential of our club and its impact on our community. Our Rainbow Club now serves approximately 140 children weekly, representing two-thirds of our pupil population. The revenue we generate enables us to consider vital improvements to our 1970s building, enhance our sports fields, and develop a nurture room, among other projects.” Braley adds, “With inevitable spending cuts across the public sector and increasing demands for children’s mental health and SEND services, school leadership must innovate to secure funding for the future. Taking our wraparound care in-house has been transformative.” As Onside Live continues to expand its reach, more schools are expected to benefit from this sustainable revenue model, ensuring that essential educational services and improvements remain funded despite budget constraints. 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
Party Time! 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 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 AirHop and 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.airhop.co.uk www.rushuk.com GO GO Makers Creative party planning for SERIOUSLY fun kids’ parties. Choose from a variety of themes from art and sport to STEM (fun Science experiments) and we will put together activities, to make the day exactly how you want it to be. Children get to play party games (we provide the prize) and have a certificate and medal presented to them during our “GO GO Makers Awards”. www.gogomakers.co.uk Raring2go! PARTIES 24 raring2go.co.uk
Fitt4Kids FITT4Kids offers to entertain your child/ children for their Birthday Party with a variety of games and competitions enabling you as parents to sit back and enjoy the celebration. FITT4Kids have three Birthday Party options for you to choose from each party lasts for 2 hours, consisting of 1hr and 45mins activities and 15mins for food (not provided by FITT4Kids), additional time can be accommodated by prior arrangement. www.fitt4kids.org.uk Mini Valley Kids Mini Valley Kids is here to turn birthday parties into unforgettable adventures! We’re all about crafting a celebration your little superstar will remember for years! Get ready for 90 minutes of fun for up to 25 kids under 8. And guess what? The birthday champ gets to cut the ribbon and declare Mini Valley open for their pals—how cool is that? www.minivalleykids.com Team Super Sports Give them the ultimate sports party! Get in touch with the team to start building your child’s dream party. With access to first class facilities and excellent coaches, we can arrange a sports party to meet any/all requirements. www.teamsupersports.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 Ackers Adventure Make your child’s birthday unforgettable with a party at Ackers! The most popular option is to book your main activity (usually 1 hour 30 minutes) and then add on 30 minutes of tobogganing or a round of disc golf afterwards! Choose from climbing, canoeing, kayaking, bushcraft, archery, orienteering, bellboating, skiing, tubing, tobogganing, disc golf, tower drop and zip wire. www.ackers-adventure.co.uk Raring2go! PARTIES 25
Raring2go! THINGS TO DO 26 raring2go.co.uk Make your own kite Steps to Make the Kite 1. Create the frame Take your wooden dowels/ straight sticks. Lay them in a cross shape, with the shorter stick crossing the longer stick about one-third from the top. Use tape or string to tie them securely together at the intersection. 2. Shape the kite Place the frame on your paper and cut a diamond shape slightly larger than the frame, leaving about 1 inch of margin around the edges. Fold the paper edges over the frame and secure them with tape or glue. 3. Attach the bridle string Tie a piece of string from one side of the horizontal spar to the other. Another piece of string then goes from the middle of this loop to well down the vertical spar. This is called the bridle string, which stabilises your kite in the air. 4. Add a Tail Attach a long piece of fabric or ribbon to the bottom of the kite. This will help stabilise the kite during flight. You could tie small strips of fabric along the tail for added flair. 5. Decorate your kite Personalise the kite with markers, stickers or other craft materials you have to hand. 6. Attach the flying line Tie one end of a longer piece of string (kite string) to the bridle string where the sticks intersect. Roll the other end onto a spool or small stick for easy handling. Materials needed: • Lightweight paper (tissue paper, newspaper, or thin wrapping paper) • Wooden dowels or straight sticks (1 long and 1 short; bamboo skewers work too) • String (any strong, lightweight thread) • Sticky tape • Scissors • Glue (optional, for securing parts) • Felt tip pens, crayons, or stickers for decoration • Ribbon for the tail Tips: Use lightweight materials to ensure the kite can catch the wind. Adjust the length of the bridle string for better balance if the kite wobbles. Supervise younger children, especially near roads or crowded areas.
Pre-School 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/kenilworth www.stagecoach.co.uk/leamington www.stagecoach.co.uk/warwick Raring2go! PRE-SCHOOL Airhop Trampoline Park Warwick – Toddler Takeover Toddler Takeover is for kids from 1 year to 6 years old so they can jump to their heart’s content in a 100% safe environment and includes access to all park facilities that are height appropriate. Mon, Thu, Fri 10am - 12pm (120 minute session). Weekends, school & public holidays: 9 - 10am. www.airhop.co.uk 27 WHO IS SAFE IN THIS SCENE AND WHO ISN’T? SEE IF YOU CAN SPOT ALL 14 DANGERS AND USE YOUR SAFETY KNOWLEDGE TO MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A GREAT TIME EVERY TIME YOU GO TO THE RIVER
Raring2go! ENVIRONMENT 28 raring2go.co.uk
Whether it’s mud pies, flower pot soufflés or other ghastly garden concoctions, this Small Foot Mud Kitchen invites children to dive into and get creative with hands-on play. Features: | Weather-resistant, durable wooden construction for outdoor fun | Playable from all four sides, perfect for group play |Oven with two realistic clicking knobs two rea | Large mud bowl, small mud pots, and metal owl ge mud bowl, small flower pots included | Recesses, hooks, and storage surface for easy urface organisation | Built-in indestructible wheels for easy mobility s for easy mob Bene ts: | Encourages imaginative and sensory play with natural materials | Supports social interaction and cooperative play | Helps develop ne motor skills and creativity | Durable design for long-lasting outdoor adventures www.raring2go.co.uk/shop/ £199.00 Price includes VAT and delivery. For Only Buy Now Scan me
Raring2go! COMPETITIONS A chance to WIN! Silverstone Festival Win tickets to Silverstone Festival on 22 – 24 August 2025 Closing date 1 August 2025 Play @ Lower Drayton Farm Win a family ticket to visit the farm during the Summer Holidays. Closing date 25 July 2025 Ironbridge Gorge Museums Win an Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust Family PASS PLUS which gives you access to the Trust’s museums for a whole year, plus additional discounts and benefits. Closing date 31 July 2025 30 raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! COMPETITIONS Competition Winners Silverstone Francesca Jones, Gemma Lindo, Victoria Guymer, Simon Wynne, Justin Smith West Midlands Safari Park Louise Yates Botany Bay Abby Davies, Solihull Lower Drayton Farm Tracy Simpson and Sian Murphy Touchwood Lila, 10, Bishop’s Tachbrook Primary School Wistow Maze Win a family ticket to visit Wistow Maze Closing date 28 July 2025 Aston Villa Ladies Debbie Davies, Cofton Hacket The Elmer Adventure Isabella, 6, Mill Lodge Primary School 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. Mini Valley Kids Win a family ticket to play at a Mini Valley Kids session in Stratford Upon Avon Closing date 28 July 2025 31 COMPETITION TERMS & CONDITIONS: Enter the competitions online at www.raring2go.co.uk/ southwarwickshire/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.
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