SOUTH WARWICKSHIRE MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk WINTER 2024 WHAT’S ON? P20 CLUBS & CLASSES P10 COMPETITIONS P30
3 Raring2go! EDITOR’S WELCOME • 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 Parties. ............................................. 5 Preschool...........................................7 Clubs and Classes...........................10 A-Z of things to do...........................18 What’s On?......................................20 Competitions................................... 30 Follow us on social media to keep up to date all year with your local #gotoguide for families. Raring2goSouthWarwickshire Raring2goSWarks raring2gosouthwarks 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
Raring2go! READING 4 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! 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 Stagecoach Parties A range of imaginative parties from the Stagecoach team will take your child on a roller coaster ride through their imagination and land them safely back home with a bulging bag of amazing party memories. Whether they want to be princesses, pirates or detectives, there’s a Stagecoach Party for everyone. www.stagecoach.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 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 Contact Simon Arnold on 07731639980 or www.fi�4kids.org.uk Our May 2020 holiday clubs are running from 9am – 5pm on the days and venues listed, we are also running a football camp, details below. We provide snack and drinks breaks throughout the day or children can bring their own snack! Packed lunch needed! To book your places please complete the slip below and return to the school office with a cheque (made payable to Simon Arnold) or cash for the appropriate amount in a clearly labelled envelope. (You can pay daily) Prices: If booking for all four days, it’s £55 per child, otherwise PER DAY it’s £17 for 1 child, £27 for 2 children, £32 for 3 children. Monday’s and Friday’s will be £12 days. If you wish your child to start at 8am, it will be an extra £2 per child, per day. Late fees: Please note that your children should be collected no later than 5pm, in the event of an emergency please get in touch with us on the day to discuss, otherwise, late collec�on will be charged at £5 for the first ten minutes and an addi�onal £1 for each minute beyond. Contact phone number: Medical requirements / allergies: Names & ages of children taking part: FITT4KIDS May Holiday Clubs 2020 Signed: (parent/carer) Contact email: Please indicate when they will be a�ending by �cking the days and the venue Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Week Two Football St Mary’s Alveston Football Camp (for ages 4 to 11 - Recep�on to Year 6) This camp is being run in associa�on with Wellesbourne Wanderers FC at the Wellesbourne Sport & Community Centre, Loxley Close, Wellesbourne, Warwick CV35 9RU Sumo Movie Day Team Challenge Mul� Sports Movie Day Sumo Team Challenge Mul� Sports Cross bar Agility Football Golf Tournament Day Tuesday 26th May Wednesday 27th May Thursday 28th May Friday 29th May Theme Days: We will be enjoying a whole variety of different sports and games throughout the day: Dodgeball, Benchball, Body Cricket, Football, Hockey and a lot more... Mul� Sports St Mary Immaculate Catholic Primary School Football Camp Wellesbourne Sport & Community Centre Mul� Sports Alveston Primary School - Tiddington 4 KIDS May 2020 Holiday Clubs Raring2go! PARTIES 5 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
6 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CHILDCARE 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 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 leisure centres across Warwickshire. www.everyoneactive.com 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 Rhythm Time Rhythm Time music classes in Stratford, Leamington, Alveston and Kenilworth. A fun and engaging music class for you and your child. Using musical activities, songs, dancing, bubbles, percussion instruments and more to help your child’s development. www.rhythmtime.net Rachel.t@rhythmtime.org Leamington and Warwick Gymnastics Club – Little Stars (under 3’s) and Gym Stars (over 3’s) LWGC’s ‘Little Stars’ pre-school gymnastics program is aimed at toddlers who are just learning to walk up to 3 yrs. The 45 minute session is delivered as a structured play class, designed so grown up’s can spend some time bonding with their child, enjoying short circle times and allowing children to explore the colourful pre-school apparatus and of course, burn off some energy! ‘Gym Stars’ classes are 45 minutes of themed fun, working on developing our pre-schooler’s strength, flexibility, coordination and learn gymnastics skills through imagination and play on our fun, colourful apparatus. Children work on all our fantastic apparatus and work towards our Gym Stars Awards Programme gaining certificates and medals along the way! www.thegymnasticsclub.co.uk Raring2go! PRE-SCHOOL 7
8 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! FOSTERING 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.
9 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 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
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 10 raring2go.co.uk Clubs & Classes 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 Go4Goals Weekly football classes for ages 2 to year 6 at Kingsley School playing fields, North Leamington School, Ryton Sports Connexion, and The Croft Preparatory School. Holiday football camps also available. Tel: Jason on 07747 562469 Email: jason@go4goals.co.uk www.go4goals.co.uk Go Go Makers Go Go Makers holiday camps offer a fun, education and memorable experience for children during Half Terms and Holidays. We have a huge variety of activities under one roof and the children get the opportunity to do these throughout the day. www.gogomakers.co.uk Guitar Lessons Learn the guitar or take your playing to another level with an experienced, qualified tutor. Tel: Angelo Berté BA (Hons) PGCE on 01926 490579 or 07731 640281 www.angeloberte.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 Maths Tuition Offered by an experienced and qualified tutor, able to teach Mathematics from Key Stage 2 up to & including A level. Enhanced CRB checked. Tel: Angelo Berté BA (Hons) PGCE on 01926 490579 or 07731 640281 www.angeloberte.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 Radford Semele Primary 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 Warwickshire Youth Choir Does your child love singing? Join the award winning Warwickshire Youth Choir! Learn advanced singing techniques with experts, sing Pop, Jazz, musicals and more, make lifelong friendships, represent Warwickshire and have lots of fun! www.choristers.org
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 11 www.everyoneactive.com/swim-lessons Start your swim lesson journey with us Stratford Leisure Centre 01789 268826 Shipston Leisure Centre 01608 662354 Southam Leisure Centre 01926 817788 Studley Leisure Centre 01527 857161 Everyone Active manages these facilities in partnership with Stratford-Upon-Avon District Council. 27530_Raring 2 Go - South Warks FP Jan Swimming.indd 1 29/11/2023 09:08
Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 13 Multi-sports and football holiday clubs from 9am – 4pm Contact us on Simon.arnold@fitt4kids.org.uk or office@fitt4kids.org.uk www.fitt4kids.org.uk Tel: 01789 339066 As a thank you to all NHS staff for their wonderful work during the pandemic, we are offering 1 FREE DAY each week at all camps for NHS staff (you will need to send proof of your ID or blue badge when you book) Children aged 4 years can only attend for a maximum of 4 hours per day. 5 – 11 year olds may attend for a full day. PER DAY £18 for 1 child £29 for 2 children £34 for 3 children FULL WEEK (5 days) £80 for 1 child £135 for 2 children £160 for 3 children EARLY DROP OFF at 8:00 £2 per child, per day VENUES: W Westgate Primary School A Alveston Primary School Check our website for daily timetable at each venue and to book. Multi Sports themes: • Multi Sports • Dodgeball day • Smoothie bike • Movie day • Woodland Learning MULTI SPORTS CAMPS – WA Daily themes include: • Penalty Shootout • Crossbar Challenge • Agility Course • Football Golf • Tournament FOOTBALL CAMP – A Feb Half Term 12 – 16 February 2024 Fitt4Kids is proud to be part of the HAF Programme. 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.
14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! BOOK REVIEWS 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 six-month-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! CLUBS & CLASSES 15 Lillington Primary school, Cubbington Rd, CV32 7AG 12-16 February 2024 www.thestringsclub.org FOR 10% OFF YOUR BOOKING! USE CODE NEWCUS10 Tax free & childcare vouchers Sibling Discount Free instrument hire Flexible days and hours to suit 1 adult to 8 child ratio LOOKING FOR SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT FOR THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS? Try our Multi-Award-Winning Holiday Camps For more info visit aspire-sports.co.uk or call 0121 663 1979 Choice of venues and activities *Offer ends 5pm Friday 2nd February Ofsted registered Action-packed childcare this February Half Term BOOK ONLINE Monday 12th - Friday 16th February Open from 8am - 6pm For more info and to book your place visit activecamps.co.uk or call 01926 298 178 Leamington Spa North Leamington School 15% OFF* with code FEB24LS 12 Talisman Square, Kenilworth CV8 1JB Phone: 01926 855784 www.kenilworthbooks.co.uk facebook.com/KenilworthBooks @KenilworthBook “A good bookshop shows you the books that you never knew you wanted” Fantastic range of books Educational, fun games and puzzles Welcoming Children’s Corner Book ordering service Book tokens sold and accepted
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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 18 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 19
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 20 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? 21 Ha on orl .co Fe Hal Ter Pantomim 10th to 18th Feb Plus Animals Action Adventure
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 22 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? 23 The Gruffalo ©1999 & TM Julia Donaldson/ Axel Scheffler. Licensed by Magic Light Pictures Ltd. 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! Find out more: forestryengland.uk/ gruffalo-party-trail Grab a trail pack to get the party started. £4 Only The Gruffalo ©1999 & TM Julia Donaldson/ Axel Scheffler. Licensed by Magic Light Pictures Ltd. Well, so are tens of thousands of local Mums and Dads every quarter… be sure to feature your business with Raring2go! ARE YOU READING THIS? Funded by: birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank • • 4k Planetarium • Outdoor Science Garden
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON? 24 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? 26 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!
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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.co.uk
Raring2go! COMPETITIONS 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 Winners 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. 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 Tikkers Kelly Thomas Mac Birmingham (Starchitects Save Christmas) Jo MacMillan Festive Gift Fair Lyndsey Watson Strings Club Oscar Froom, 4, Coten End Primary School The Alex (Peter Pan) Kate Somers The Old Rep (Peter Pan) Jennifer Gardner
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