Raring2go! West Suffolk

Based on the DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture and the Book by Wiliam Steig Book and Lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire Music by Jeanine Tesori This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI Europe www.mtishows.co.uk seckfordtheatre.org 21st & 22nd February 2025 Performances at 2pm and 6pm 0333 666 3366 MEET SANTA P5 & 12 TUTORING P8 & 9 BABY GROUPS P7 raring2go.co.uk WINTER 2024/5 WEST SUFFOLK MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD

Raring2go! HOLIDAY CLUBS 2 raring2go.co.uk Children’s Holiday Clubs Join us every school holiday! Be a part of an unforgettable experience from only £18 per Day* Visit inspirecharityuk.org to book ‘Inspire’ is the trading name of Inspire Suffolk Limited. Address: Inspire Suffolk Ltd, Lindbergh Road, Ipswich, IP3 9QX. Registered in England and Wales: 04881803. Registered charity: England & Wales 1101519. * plus 3% booking fee Choose from a range of activities including multi-sports, arts & crafts, and more, at our venues in Ipswich and Lowestoft

Raring2go! WELCOME 3 ADVERTISE WITH RARING2GO! Be part of our SPRING magazine. 20,000 copies distributed in March 2025 Get in touch today for details GET IN TOUCH e: emily.parker@raring2go.co.uk t: 07841 337054 w: raring2go.co.uk/area/ipswich-and-felistowe Welcome to your Winter magazine We’ve got you covered this festive season! Whether you’re looking to meet Father Christmas, enjoy a show, or keep the family active, we have plenty of options for you. School’s Out Activities offers fun-filled holiday camps for kids, with a £5 discount when you quote XMASRARING—perfect if you need a little extra help with childcare this holiday. Kip McGrath Tutoring can help improve your child’s school results and boost their confidence, with a free assessment to get started! For the little ones, Baby Sensory is offering 10% off your first term booking—a fantastic opportunity to introduce your baby to a world of sensory fun. Enjoy the festive season with your loved ones, making forever memories. Best wishes, Emily Editor & Local Mum

Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 4 raring2go.co.uk @suffolkarchives 25 October 2024 – 19 January 2025 Adults: £5 Children over 4: £4 Group ticket (2 adults and 2 children): £14 A delightful exhibition for all ages has opened at The Hold on Ipswich Waterfront. The Snowman™ and The Snowdog features over 40 original illustrations from the film, along with behind-the-scenes drawings and preparatory sketches. These unique pieces, based on characters created by Raymond Briggs, offer a fascinating insight into the creative processes involved in bringing The Snowman™ back to life for a new generation of viewers. To book tickets, please scan the QR code or visit: www.suffolkarchives.co.uk/whatson Images Copyright © Snowdog Enterprises Ltd. 2024 www.thesnowman.com

5 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON Come and join the festive fun! Meet Father Christmas in his grotto, get creative with craft activities, go on a trail, see beautifully decorated Christmas trees and more. Visit our website to find out more

6 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON BOOK YOUR PLACE: bit.ly/WWIHS2024 WINTER WOODLAND ADVENTURE Join us for a magical festive experience led by our Level 3 Forest School Leader, suitable for children aged 2-7, younger siblings are welcome under parental supervision. 5th December 2024 10 am - 12 noon

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Raring2go! EDUCATION 8 raring2go.co.uk Kip McGrath is a global educational brand and a market leader in providing quality, targeted tutoring for students aged 5 to 16 in the core subjects of maths and English. With over 250 centres across the UK, each Kip McGrath location operates as part of a multinational franchise but is independently owned and managed by its franchisee. Reenu Gupta, Director of the Kip McGrath Education Centre in Ipswich West, is a highly experienced professional dedicated to helping every child reach their full potential. Our Colchester centre has also been successfully supporting children's learning for over five years. As an OFSTED-registered centre, Kip McGrath employs a team of qualified teachers with expertise in delivering top-quality learning outcomes to students of all abilities. All staff members are fully enhanced DBS-checked and trained in the latest safeguarding procedures to ensure a safe, supportive learning environment. The centre offers tailored, professional tuition to meet the diverse needs and aspirations of each student. We cater to learners of all abilities, from those facing challenges in school to those seeking to extend their knowledge. Our small group sizes enable personalized, one-on-one attention, allowing each student to progress at an appropriate, individualized pace. Our programs are designed to inspire students and encourage academic success by focusing on the following principles: • Progress is guided by the child’s own pace, ensuring that they are challenged and encouraged without becoming overwhelmed. • Time is given for each concept to be fully understood before moving to the next stage. • Peer pressure, which can sometimes discourage children from asking questions in school, is minimized in our supportive Kip McGrath environment. • Small groups with a maximum of five students allow us to quickly identify and address any learning challenges. Our educational programs align with the national curriculum and utilize a blend of state-of-the-art, customized computer technology alongside traditional teaching methods. Each pupil receives a unique educational package specifically tailored to their strengths and areas for improvement. To begin, we conduct a free assessment to gauge each child’s current learning level, after which our qualified teachers create a personalized lesson plan designed to meet the student’s specific needs and goals.

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Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 10 raring2go.co.uk Christmas at the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway The Santa Special - a magical Christmas treat for children up to 10 A steam train ride from Brockford Station to ‘North Pole Halt’ where each child has an individual visit to Santa in his Christmas Guards Van. Plus a present for every child. Choose from December 14th, 15th, 20th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd £15.00 per person. Advanced bookings only For more information and booking via our website visit www.mslr.org.uk Or telephone 01449 766874 Brockford Station, Wetheringsett, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 5PW Threads for All is an affordable and unique Fashion & Homewares store situated in The Walk in Ipswich town. Fashion should be inclusive and accessible to everyone. We offer a diverse selection of adults’ and kids’ fashion, accessories, unique homewares. We upcycle furniture and offer vintage and preloved options. Our kids collections age 0-3 months to 13/14 with accessories, plus a “Pick n Mix” 3 for £1 toys for pocket money! Proud to rent space to local makers, artists and crafts people from glass, bath bombs and candles to customised fashion and accessories. Visit us to receive your loyalty card, sweets and dog treats! Website: threadsforall.co.uk Instagram: threadsforall_suffolk

Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 11 OPEN DAILY from 10.00AM DISCOVER SOME OF THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL OWLS & AND FASCINATING BIRDS OF PREY • MEERKATS DISCOVERY CENTRE INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND SOS SAFARI • ARMADILLOS PORCUPINES • FERRETS SCHOOL VISITS & HOME ED DEPT. Reg. Charity 1086565 KASTLE AT MEER STONHAM BARNS PARK, Stonham Aspal Suffolk Owl Sanctuary and Nature Centre Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, Stonham Barns Park, Stonham Aspal IP14 6AT 0345 680 7897 • info@owl-help.org.uk • www.owl-help.org.uk Discovery trail for youngsters with a prize for all! Great Summer Holiday Fun! All you need for a fun day out at Suffolk Owl Sanctuary & Nature Centre Lots of things for young visitors to see & do! Don’t forget to visit the Meerkat Mob at SOS2 for more fun next door! S.O.S. SAFARI

Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 12 raring2go.co.uk Water Safety Starts Here – Learn to Swim at Leisure World! Learn to swim at Leisure World and let our Swim England-certified instructors build water confidence from day one. We can offer classes for all ages; from babies to teens. Weekly lessons help build essential water safety skills and strong swimming techniques whilst boosting confidence in the water. With hassle-free monthly payments and a goodie bag when joining including a free swim bag, hat, and Zoggs Goggles. You’ll also get yearround access to our 25-metre pool for extra practice. Any swimming essentials can be picked up at the Zoggs shop and a trip to the café is a must after lessons! Sign up today to invest in your child’s swimming future and water safety! TWO MONTHS FREE

Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES 13 ACT SING DANCE www.thectc.co.uk Ages 3 - 18 YEARS Wednesdays | Saturdays CTC Studios | Needham Market | IP6 8NZ

14 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Quay School of Dance CLASSES HELD IN SUDBURY & IXWORTH, NR BURY ST EDMUNDS Pupils accepted from 3 years • Ballet • Modern • Jazz • Tap • Street • Cheer-leading • Adult Tap • Adult Ballet t: 07771 648649 e: quaydance@hotmail.co.uk www.quaydance.co.uk Exams - Shows - Summer Schools Quay Dance

15 Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Build confidence & nurture talent Inspirational vocal and drama lessons Promote personal and social development 100% LAMDA exam pass rate Small class sizes Book your FREE TRIAL! Contact Evie on 07362 429298 suffolk@littlevoices.org.uk www.littlevoices.org.uk/suffolk/ JOIN US IN KESGRAVE ON THURSDAYS! FREE TRIAL LESSON AT LITTLE VOICES SUFFOLK Performing Arts classes for ages 4-18 All Little Voices Principals and Tutors are fully enhanced DBS checked. Little Voices is a registered trademark of Little Voices Limited. Little Voices schools and centres are operated as a franchise, LLP or sole trader and are independently owned by the franchisee or individual. Terms and conditions apply.

16 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! PARTIES / RECIPE Celebrate with a Colchester Castle Party! Colchester Castle offers a stunning backdrop for unforgettable birthday parties. With unique packages, guests can enjoy themed activities, guided tours, and lots of fun! The castle’s historic charm and picturesque setting enhance any occasion, making it truly memorable. Let the dedicated team at Colchester Castle help you create a magical experience that your guests will cherish. For more details and booking information, visit colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/parties or call 01206 282939 to book. Choose from 4 party themes: Romans, Castles, Dragons or Unicorns Celebrate in Style for children aged 5-11 years, enjoy a private tour with a costumed guide. Prices start from £180 to book call 01206 282939

Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Stonham Barns Park is one of Suffolk’s premier destination locations. Set in over 140 beautiful countryside acres, it offers a world of indoor and outdoor activities, a holiday park and a retail village full of contemporary and artisan shops. OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FREE PARKING STONHAMBARNS.CO.UK STONHAM BARNS PARK, STONHAM ASPAL, SUFFOLK IP14 6AT. TELEPHONE: 01449 711 111 EAT • DRINK • SHOP PLAY • STAY • HOLIDAY 30+ FAMILY SHOWGROUND EVENTS GREAT DAYS OUT FOR ALL THE FAMILY POST OFFICE CHILDREN’S ATTRACTIONS Play area with climbing frame, pottery painting, fishing. STONHAM BARNS GOLF PARK Golf, adventure golf, footgolf, indoor golf, foot pool. CARTERS OF SUFFOLK Teapot manufacturer or paint your own pottery. HOLIDAY PARK Bring your own tent, caravan or motorhome. Hire our cosy cabin, luxury bell tent, fishing lodge or holiday static. A PLACE WHERE MEMORIES ARE MADE STONHAM BARNS LAKES 3 fully stocked fishing lakes. FOOD AND DRINK Delicious food and drink in Cafe 24 and The Pottery Tea & Cake Shop RETAIL VILLAGE Over 40 unique shops and businesses plus all your essentials. HOLIDAY HOMES FOR SALE Purchase a holiday lodge to use again and again 11 months of the year. DOGS WELCOME

18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES ANSWERS: 1: The Grinch - 2: Tintin - 3: Troy 4: Pharaoh - 5: Toy Story - 6: Alvin and the Chipmunks 7: A - 8: Litmus paper- 9: Puck - 10: Cycling 11: Madrid - 12: The Mersey LITERATURE 1 Who stole Christmas in a Dr Seuss book? 2 Who has a dog called Snowy and is friends with Captain Haddock? HISTORY AND POLITICS 3 Which city did the ancient Greeks by legend besiege for 10 years? 4 What title was given to the rulers of Ancient Egypt? ENTERTAINMENT 5 Sheriff Woody Pride and Buzz Lightyear are major characters in which series of films? 6 Which film had a 2009 follow-up described as “The Squeakquel”? SCIENCE AND NATURE 7 Which is the only vowel not on the top row of a computer keyboard? 8 What turns red in the presence of acid and blue in the presence of alkali? SPORT AND LEISURE 9 What is the object hit by the players in ice hockey called? 10 Which sport takes place in a velodrome? GEOGRAPHY AND TRAVEL 11 What is the capital city of Spain? 12 Liverpool lies on which river? Answers at the bottom of the page. No cheating. THE

19 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON             €       ‚ HAF is funded by The Department of Education

20 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! RECIPES

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Raring2go! LOCAL BUSINESS 22 raring2go.co.uk DRIVEWAY & PATIO SPECIALISTS 01473828117 / 07495582129 ENQUIRIES: AMYCURRAN@4LIFELANDSCAPES.CO.UK

23 Raring2go! RARING2GROW! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Make your garden a Winter Wonderland Bird Feeding Extravaganza: Transform your garden into a winter haven for feathered friends. Let children create homemade bird feeders and hang them in key spots for easy birdwatching. Winter Planting Adventures: Engage kids in winter planting projects such as frost-resistant flowers like pansies and ever green shrubs. This will add a vivid burst of colour to the winter landscape. Festive Container Gardens: Encourage creativity and then design festive container gardens. Try to include winter flowering plants and seasonal decorations for an added touch of festive winter magic. Crafty Garden Markers: Continue the autumn tradition of crafting garden markers, using materials like wooden spoons or painted stones to label winter plants. Winter Veggie Patch: Grow cold-hardy vegetables like kale and spinach. Teach children the joys of winter gardening and the importance of seasonal produce. Winter Pruning Lessons: Teach the basic winter pruning techniques on dormant trees and shrubs. This will not only maintain plant health but also imparts valuable gardening skills to your eager students! Create Ice Decorations: Turn freezing temperatures into an artistic opportunity. Create ice decorations by filling moulds with water, adding berries or leaves, and freezing them to decorate the garden. Explore Winter Insects: Investigate winter insects. Lift rocks or logs to discover insects in their sneaky winter hideouts showcasing the great diversity of garden life in colder months. Winter Wildlife Tracking: Teach children about winter wildlife tracks. Identify footprints in the snow and discuss the animals that share the garden during this season. Fairy Tale Garden Storytelling: Spark imagination by weaving winter-themed stories that will encourage children to share tales about fairies, gnomes and magical creatures inhabiting the winter garden. Winter gardening with children transforms the garden into a veritable winter wonderland. By incorporating these engaging activities, you not only maintain the garden but also nurture a lifelong love for nature through gardening. Let the laughter of children touch the magic of winter in your garden, creating cherished memories that last well beyond the season. Raring2grow! Outdoor fun for budding green-fingers As winter arrives, family gardening fun takes on a magical quality. There are opportunities for children to engage in activities that help form strong connections with nature. Here are some delightful winter tasks to make the season even more enchanting for the whole family.

Raring2go! WHAT’S ON 24 raring2go.co.uk 50% off Events & Festivals Up To 50% off Theme Parks Up To 67% off Theatre & Museums Up To 45% off Zoos & Aquariums Up To Book Amazing Winter Attraction DEALS & DAYS OUT with Raring2go!

25 Football kits Sportswear Personalised hoodies School wear Print & embroidery Tel: 07841 337054 E: wearing2go@hotmail.com

26 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! LOCAL BUSINESSES There’s an unmissable family treat in store at Trinity Park Ipswich this Christmas, with a brand new show in a spectacular heated Big Top Theatre - the home of the Co-op Juniors Theatre Company from December 13th to 22nd with Magic of Christmas. After 18 record-breaking years at Snape Maltings Concert Hall, the Co-op Juniors return home to Ipswich this Christmas. With a totally new show in a custom-built festive venue with 500 seats and a huge revolving stage, Ipswich has seen nothing like it before. Audiences will journey to another world where Christmas wishes come true! Get whisked away on a captivating adventure filled with stunning visual surprises, exciting music and dance, colourful costumes and an enchanting story about a young girl transported to a magical realm under the watchful eyes of Father Christmas and his elves. Perfect for the whole family, Magic of Christmas is the best way to get into the festive spirit! The Big Top Theatre has a heated foyer with hot food and drink, a licensed bar, snacks and more. There’s free parking close to the theatre at Trinity Park, with easy access from Felixstowe Road, Ipswich. Tickets are from £12 with discounts for under 16s, over 60s and groups of 10 or more. The Big Top Theatre is fully wheelchair accessible. There are toilets close by the foyer. Magical new Christmas show for Ipswich Book Tickets Now magic-of-christmas.co.uk SCAN TO BOOK SHOWS DATES: 13 & 20 Dec 4pm & 7pm 14, 15, 21, 22 Dec 12pm, 3pm & 6pm

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Raring2go! HEALTHY EATING 28 raring2go.co.uk In a world inundated with choices, ensuring our children receive the nutrition they need is paramount to their growth, development, and overall well-being. As parents, we play a pivotal role in shaping our children's dietary habits, laying the foundation for a lifetime of health. Here's why a balanced diet is crucial and how we, as carers, can make a positive impact. A balanced diet is like a full symphony of nutrients, with each element playing a unique role in supporting our children's health. From the essential vitamins and minerals found in fruits and vegetables to the energy-providing goodness of whole grains and proteins, every component contributes to their physical and cognitive development. One of the keys to achieving a balanced diet is variety. Encourage your children to explore the colorful spectrum of fruits and vegetables, introducing them to a diverse range of flavors and textures. Make mealtime an adventure by involving them in selecting fresh produce and experimenting with new recipes. Whole grains should be the backbone of their diet, providing sustained energy and essential nutrients. Opt for whole grain bread, pasta, and rice over their refined counterparts to ensure a steady release of energy throughout the day. Protein is the building block of growth, and including a mix of lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy and plant-based sources will ensure your child receives the necessary amounts of Amino-acids for muscle development and overall health. Limiting sugary snacks and beverages is crucial in preventing the pitfalls of excessive sugar intake. Instead, encourage water as the primary beverage and use natural sweeteners like fruits to satisfy their sweet cravings. As parents, we need to lead by example. Children are the keenest of observers and by demonstrating our commitment to a well balanced diet, we instill in them the importance of making nutritious choices. Let's nourish our children's bodies and minds with the gift of a well-rounded and wholesome diet, ensuring a vibrant and healthy future for the next generation. Nourishing Our Future: Why a Balanced Diet for Children matters

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Raring2go! ACTIVITIES 30 raring2go.co.uk Jump into jolly this Christmas at Jump In Trampoline Park & Soft Play Ipswich! The perfect escape from the cold weather for the whole family. 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! Jump In Ipswich isn’t just home to wall-to-wall trampolines, airbags to jump into, fast and furious dodgeball games, and much more, but also an enormous soft play for little ones to enjoy! The 24,000sqft play centre offers a variety of features and activities, from slides to stages, tunnels to towers, even a miniature boulevard full of shops and cafés for your little ones to play make believe in. Adventure and fun is always around the corner at Jump In. Little ones can also bounce in a safe and fun environment in Toddler Takeover sessions, suitable for ages 1-6 years. Ages 4 and above can bounce during Open Jump sessions or choose to experience their favourite trampoline park in a cool night club atmosphere during their bargain 2-hour After Dark sessions on Fridays and Saturdays evening 6-8pm for only £19.50. During term time save with UNLIMITED Open Jumps for the price of one hour with the Unlimited After School Jump offer OR with the brand new After School Antics offering 60 minutes jumps for two people plus one Margherita pizza – for a bargain £24.95! Both available Mondays – Thursdays, term time only. Jump In Ipswich is the perfect day out or party venue for larger groups as well. Choose from a range of hassle-free party packages all including party host, party room or area, decorations and clean up. Save 15% on term time parties, Monday – Thursday, using the discount code WEEKDAY15. Party planning couldn’t be easier! School trips, youth group days out, and corporate team building can all be catered for with group package options starting at £10pp. Looking for something a little more specific? A bespoke session can also be created for your requirements, perfect for a Christmas party with a difference! Give the gift of jumping for joy this Christmas with one of our gift cards! Valid for one year from the day of purchase. Available in the park and online. For more information and to book visit https://gojumpin. com/adventure-park-ipswich/ Or call 0330 223 3333

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REGISTERED www.schoolsoutactivities.co.uk BOOK NOW Festive fun Day Camps from 8am - 6pm. Select days available between: Mon 23rd Dec 2024 - Fri 3rd Jan 2025 Suffolk’s original and best! Bury St Edmunds | Felixstowe | Ipswich | Woodbridge TAX FREE CHILDCARE £5 OFF all bookings with code XMASRARING Scan for Info 4-16yrs Pay with any childcare vouchers or Save 20%

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