MONSTERS, MISCHIEF AND MORE! BOOK NOW WMSP.CO.UK COMPETITIONS P30-31 WHAT’S ON OCT - DEC P4-20 TOFFEE APPLES RECIPE P12 MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk AUTUMN 2023 WOLVERHAMPTON & SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE
‘Autumn days when the grass is jewelled and there’s silk inside a chestnut shell’. This is a song we used to sing at school and it always comes back to me at this time of year as I walk through our lovely local parks. Raring2go! HELLO 3 Welcome to the Autumn issue of Raring2go! Hopefully you will have time to get outdoors and enjoy the best of this season too. With half term, Halloween, bonfire night, Diwali and Christmas all to come, there is plenty to look forward to. Download vouchers and save £££’s Access all our online competitions with great prizes to be won Join today by visiting www.raring2go.co.uk Copyright © 2023 Mojo Publishing Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical or electronic, including photocopying and recording, or by any information storage & retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Requests for permission or further information should be addressed to the publishers. All information in this magazine is published in good faith and cannot be reproduced without prior written permission.Whilst the publisher makes every effort to ensure that the businesses which are featured in this magazine are of the highest quality, we do not guarantee the services and products from any businesses featured. Printed by Gemini Print. This magazine is crammed with inspiration to keep you busy from now until the end of the year. Whatever you do, have fun! Jo Messinger, Editor & Owner TEL: 07762 204195 EMAIL: wolverhampton@raring2go.co.uk FACEBOOK: @raring2gowolverhampton
This is a guide. Some details may change and some events require pre-booking. Please check with the venue before setting off. Sat 21 October - Sun 5 November. Spooky Spectacular at West Midlands Safari Park. Explorers will need to help locate the missing potion ingredients in the free Spooky Trail to win a delicious treat! Meet Mitzy Monster and see Patch the Scarecrow, along with their creators, the Silly Scientists! Watch a brand new show hosted by Mitzy. Optional extra: Spooky VR Ride. Open late on 28 - 29 Oct Monster Ball on 28 Oct for over 18yrs. www.wmsp.co.uk Sat 21 October, 11am-12pm & 1-2pm. Scrunch, Scatter, Sniff! New Art Gallery Walsall. Immersive music experience inspired by the sculptures of Karla Black. Sessions exclusively for children with profound & multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) and/or complex support needs, with their families. Free. Booking essential as places are limited. Call 01922 654400 to book or visit www.thenewartgallerywalsall.org.uk From now until Sun 5 November. Spooky family fun at Drayton Manor, 10.30am4.30pm. Perfect for younger families. New trick or treat trail, hay bale trail, trick or treat with Sir Topham Hat, Rory’s Boo Bash, Thomas Land Spooky Show, plus over 50 rides and attractions. From Sat 28 - Tue 31 October, 10.30am-8pm braver families can also visit The Haunted Manor - it includes all the family daytime activities plus new scare experiences, scare zones, spectacular fireworks finale, rides in the dark and family fun that gets scarier after dark. www.draytonmanor.co.uk Fri 27 - Tue 31 October. Monster Mash Ball by Canal Boat, Dudley Canal Trust. Set sail and boogie the evening away. Plus Sun 29 - Mon 30 Oct Little Skippers Halloween crafts, activities, dancing and games for the little ones. www.dudleycanaltrust.org.uk Fri 27 October, 6pm. Halloween in Kinver. Visit Kinver High Street and The Mews for a FREE Trick or Treat trail. Plus meet the Headless Horseman, get a glitter tattoo, cast spells, have a go at apple bobbing, take part in the best-dressed competition and more! Continued on P6... 4 raring2go.co.uk 5 Raring2go! PLACES TO GO Raring2go! WHAT’S ON AUTUMN For more info visit aspire-sports.co.uk or call 0121 663 1979 Choice of venues and activities *Offer ends 5pm Friday 27th October Ofsted registered Action-packed childcare this October Half Term BOOK ONLINE Open from8am - 4pm For more info and to book your place visit activecamps.co.uk or call 01902 213 298 15% OFF* with code OCT23CW Monday 30th October - Friday 3rd November Codsall Leisure Centre Wombourne Leisure Centre Book online: www.playatthefarm.co.uk/pumpkins SAVE 10% * Use code RG10P Staffordshire’s BIGGEST Pumpkin Patch! NEW Indoor Carving Barn Evening Sessions Open every weekend in October then daily 14th - 31st Oct 2023 *£11pp 1-30 Sep; £12pp from 1 Oct. ** Subject to weather & availability. Trailer rides • Pumpkin village • Spooky walk Friendly animals • Outdoor play area • Pop up café PLUS TICKETS FROM £11* per person Includes pumpkin, carrots, potatoes & sweetcorn** What’s On Autumn? Every weekend then daily from 14 - 31 October. PYO Pumpkins @ Lower Drayton Farm. Find your perfect pumpkin before carving it in the NEW indoor carving barn. With pumpkin games, a spooky walk, friendly animals and the chance to pick sweetcorn, carrots & potatoes it’s a great start to Halloween! SAVE! Get 10% off using code RG10P www.lowerdraytonfarm.co.uk Sun 15 October. Children’s Musical Puppet Show, Bilston Town Hall. Shows 11am and 2pm. www.bilstonth.co.uk Sun 15, 22, 29 October, 5, 12, 19, 26 November, 10, 17 December, 2-3pm. Sunday Art Club, New Art Gallery Walsall. Weekly art club for children and young people. Meet artists and creatives, learn to paint, print, sculpt, craft and more! Ages 4+. Free. Drop-in. www.thenewartgallerywalsall.org.uk Weds 18 & 25 October. Wolves Play Café at Boundary Way Allotments, Wolverhampton.10.15-11.30am - Wolves in the Woods (Under 7s). 12.00-2.00pm - Dropin Nature Play (Under 7s). Pay As You Feel supported by Severn Trent Community Fund. www.wolvesplaycafe.org Fri 20 & 27 October. Wolves in the Woods (Under 7s) at Gatis Community Space, Wolverhampton. 10.15am-11.30am. Pay As You Feel. www.wolvesplaycafe.org
Mon 30 October - Fri 3 November, 8am - 4pm. Aspire Active Holiday Camps at South Staffordshire Leisure Centres in Wombourne & Codsall. Multi Sports Academy: Ages 4 - 11 (4 years olds for half day only). Active Leaders: Ages 12-14. SAVE: Get 15% off with the code OCT23CW (offer ends 5pm 27 October) To book call 01902 213298 or visit www.aaeg.co.uk/active-camps Mon 30 October - Fri 3 November. Kixx October Holiday Camp at Goals Black Country, Darlaston Lane, Wolverhampton. Choose from football, dance and martial arts. The camps are free for all children living in Wolverhampton through the HAF Programme. Book through www.yowolves. co.uk or for more details call 07834 073939, email martin@kixx.org.uk or visit www.facebook.com/KixxWolverhampton Mon 30 October - Sat 4 November. Peter Pan Goes Wrong. Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. www.grandtheatre.co.uk Mon 30 October, 10.15-11.30am. Wolves Play Café Half-term Pop-Up Play Café, All Saints Community Centre, WV2 1EL. Autumn themed indoor play session.10.1511.30am. £6 per child and £5 sibling. SAVE! Use code: R2G123 for 10% off. www.wolvesplaycafe.org Sat 28 - Tues 31 October. Severn Valley Railway, Ghost Trains. Once aboard, hold on tight as the train roars away, passing through haunted stations on the way to Arley – the home of the living dead! www.svr.co.uk Sat 28 - Tues 31 October. Halloween Nights at Black Country Living Museum. Prepare to be spooked as the Museum opens its doors to little devils and ghouls! Bring the whole family along to enjoy a night of trick or treats around the historic shops and houses and experience thrilling street entertainment. www.tickets.bclm.com Sun 29, Mon 30 & Tue 31 October 4.30pm & 7.30pm.October. Boo at the Zoo, Wild Zoological Park, nr Bobbington. The event features a brand new night time display ‘Owls by Moonlight’, a walkthrough maze experience with live actors and characters to meet along the way, a Halloween edition of ‘BUGS LIVE’, animal handling opportunities, creepy crawlies, pumpkin carving, trick or treating, facepainting and finishing up the night with another new theatrical show called ‘SPOOKTACULAR’! www.wildzoo.co.uk Mon 30 October - Fri 3 November. Thinktank, Birmingham. Spooky Stay and Play: A spooky sensory play session for little ones aged 18 months - 3years. Fright at the Museum: A monstrous show full to the brim with freaky facts and spooky science. Spooky Science Family Night: Explore the museum after dark! Book ahead for this one. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk Mon 30 Oct - Fri 3 November. Yo! Wolves October half term. Looking for some fun and exciting things to do over the school holidays in Wolverhampton including HAF activities. Visit www.yowolves.co.uk Continued from P4... Continued on P10... SCAN TO BOOK www.wolvesplaycafe.org Look out for details of our upcoming events and activities on Facebook and at: arleyarboretum.co.uk The Magic of Arley KIDS’ NATURAL SCAVENGER HUNT THIS HALLOWEEN Explore, discover & make memories at Arley Arboretum Kids From £3.50 Adults From £6.50 6 raring2go.co.uk 7 Raring2go! PLACES TO GO Raring2go! WHAT’S ON AUTUMN
BANTOCK HOUSE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON BANTOCK HOUSE MUSEUM SUNDAY 26 NOVEMBER 11.00AM - 7.00PM 6.30pm Christmas Lights switch on Create a pompom Christmas tree decoration, and enjoy mulled wine and minced pies with the Friends of Bantock House. Free, drop in. Suitable for all ages. JOLLY BOLLY ELF SHOW WOLVERHAMPTON ART GALLERY SATURDAY 2 DECEMBER It’s all been very busy at Santa’s Toy Factory in the North Pole and the elves have been so busy that suddenly all the machines breakdown! The elves need your help to finish getting the presents ready, so join the Jolly Bolly Elf for Bhangra Jingles, Bollywood Glitz and festive cheer! This is a family fun interactive show with lots of audience participation. £3 per child, book online. Suitable for under 7s. FAMILY EVENTS THIS AUTUMN & WINTER FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK, VISIT WWW.WOLVERHAMPTONART.ORG.UK/FAMILY-FRIENDLY-ACTIVITIES. Booking fees may apply. ANIMATE YOUR ART WOLVERHAMPTON ART GALLERY SATURDAY 21 OCTOBER 10:30AM-1:30PM To celebrate Get Online Week families are invited to create their own Pop Art character and animate it using free to access software. Free, drop in until 1.00pm. Suitable for ages 5 to 16 ART PLAY WOLVERHAMPTON ART GALLERY SUNDAYS 11.00AM TO 1.00PM 22 OCTOBER, 19 NOVEMBER, 17 DECEMBER Our creative, sensory play sessions for families with babies and toddlers are led by artists and early years’ educators. Take time to relax, imagine and find inspiration together. £3 per child, book online or drop in. Suitable for ages 0 to 5 – older siblings are also welcome to attend. BILSTON BODDLERS BILSTON GALLERY THURSDAYS DURING TERM TIME 1PM TO 2.30PM Bilston Boddlers are fun sessions for families with young children which provide babies and toddlers with all kinds of imaginative materials to explore their world and get creative through functional, inventive and messy play. Free, drop in. Suitable for ages 0 to 5 (older siblings are welcome to attend). HALLOWEEN PARTY AT BANTOCK HOUSE BANTOCK HOUSE MUSEUM SATURDAY 28 OCTOBER 12.00-2.00PM Jump into the spooky season with a ghastly disco, creepy crafts, fiendish food and a costume contest! £8 per child, book online. POP! BUBBLE BONANZA WOLVERHAMPTON ART GALLERY MONDAY 30 OCTOBER 10.30AM-1.30PM Create bubble art, make a bubble blower and follow the bubble trail around the gallery. £2 per child, book online or drop in. Suitable for ages 4 to 12 POP ART FAMILY WORKSHOP WOLVERHAMPTON ART GALLERY WEDNESDAY 1 NOVEMBER 11.00AM TO 1.00PM Join artist Exodus Crooks for a fun family workshop inspired by the artworks of Derek Boshier, exploring ink and collage! £4 per child, book online. Suitable for age 6 to 14 DIWALI CRAFT WOLVERHAMPTON ART GALLERY SATURDAY 11 NOVEMBER Join artist Daya Bhatti to create a hanging Diwali decoration to take home. £2 per child, book online or drop in. Suitable for ages 4 to 12 OCTOBER HALF TERM ACTIVITIES AT WOLVERHAMPTON ART GALLERY ALL SESSIONS SUITABLE FOR AGE 5 TO 12 YEARS OLD UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED PLEASE VISIT WOLVERHAMPTONART.ORG.UK/FAMILY-FRIENDLY-ACTIVITIES/ CHARACTERFUL CREATURES MONDAY 24 OCTOBER, 10.30AM TO 1.30PM, DROP IN Learn to make fuzzy pompoms and transform them into wonderful wildlife! We’ll have plenty of wool and lots of colourful crafty materials on hand to help you create some characterful creatures. £3 per child, book online or pay on the day AMAZING ANIMAL MASKS TUESDAY 25 OCTOBER, 10.30AM TO 1.30PM, DROP IN Create your own collaged animal mask using a variety of materials and techniques. Do you want to prowl, flap or hop in your animal disguise? £3 per child, book online or pay on the day WOLVERHAMPTON ARTS & CULTURE www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk WILD FROGS WEDNESDAY 26 OCTOBER, 10.30AM TO 1.30PM, DROP IN Go wild and make your own colourful, fun, tree-frog. Use all things decorative, we’ll use split-pins to make its arms and legs moveable. Help that frog strike a pose! £3 per child, book online or pay on the day CLAY CRITTERS THURSDAY 27 OCTOBER, 10.30AM TO 1.30PM, DROP IN Use clay and natural materials to model your favourite woodland wildlife. Foxes, squirrels, hedgehogs, badgers or even a tiny mouse! £3 per child, book online or pay on the day WOOLLY WILDLIFE FRIDAY 28 OCTOBER, 10.30AM TO 1.30PM, DROP IN Using pipe-cleaners and wool wrapping, make a soft sculpture of a furry friend to take home. £3 per child, book online or pay on the day COLOUR IN YOUR ART GALLERY SATURDAY 29 OCTOBER, 11AM TO 4PM, DROP IN Join artist Olivier Jamin to create a large-scale illustrated banner. Drop in any time to get creative and relax with some mindful colouring. A BSL interpreter will be present during the event. Free, suitable for all ages WOLVERHAMPTON ARTS & CULTURE Wolverhampton Art Gallery has a packed programme of family-friendly fun during October half term, inspired by the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. See the website for more details – www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk/family-friendly-activities OCTOBER HALF TERM ACTIVITIES AT WOLVERHAMPTON ART GALLERY ALL SESSIONS SUITABLE FOR AGE 5 TO 12 YEARS OLD UNLESS OTHERWISE STATED PLEASE VISIT WOLVERHAMPTONART.ORG.UK/FAMILY-FRIENDLY-ACTIVITIES/ CHARACTERFUL CREATURES MONDAY 24 OCTOBER, 10.30AM TO 1.30PM, DROP IN Learn to make fuzzy pompoms and transform them into wonderful wildlife! We’ll have plenty of wool and lots of colourful crafty materials on hand to help you create some characterful creatures. £3 per child, book online or pay on the day AMAZING ANIMAL MASKS TUESDAY 25 OCTOBER, 10.30AM TO 1.30PM, DROP IN Create your own collaged animal mask using a variety of materials and techniques. Do you want to prowl, flap or hop in your animal disguise? £3 per child, book online or pay on the day WOLVERHAMPTON ARTS & CULTURE www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk WILD FROGS WEDNESDAY 26 OCTOBER, 10.30AM TO 1.30PM, DROP IN Go wild and make your own colourful, fun, tree-frog. Use all things decorative, we’ll use split-pins to make its arms and legs moveable. Help that frog strike a pose! £3 per child, book online or pay on the day CLAY CRITTERS THURSDAY 27 OCTOBER, 10.30AM TO 1.30PM, DROP IN Use clay and natural materials to model your favourite woodland wildlife. Foxes, squirrels, hedgehogs, badgers or even a tiny mouse! £3 per child, book online or pay on the day WOOLLY WILDLIFE FRIDAY 28 OCTOBER, 10.30AM TO 1.30PM, DROP IN Using pipe-cleaners and wool wrapping, make a soft sculpture of a furry friend to take home. £3 per child, book online or pay on the day COLOUR IN YOUR ART GALLERY SATURDAY 29 OCTOBER, 11AM TO 4PM, DROP IN Join artist Olivier Jamin to create a large-scale illustrated banner. Drop in any time to get creative and relax with some mindful colouring. A BSL interpreter will be present during the event. Free, suitable for all ages WOLVERHAMPTON ARTS & CULTURE Wolverhampton Art Gallery has a packed programme of family-friendly fun during October half term, inspired by the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. See the website for more details – www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk/family-friendly-activities AT WOLVERHAMPTON ART GALLERY, BANTOCK HOUSE & BILSTON GALLERY
Tue 31 October,11am-1pm. Mini Makers at the New Art Gallery, Walsall. Get creative, explore. Autumn Leaf Prints & Pumpkin Sensory Play. Ages 2-4. £3. Drop-in. www.thenewartgallerywalsall.org.uk Tue 31 October 10am-12.30pm. Witches & Wizards activity and boat trip, Wildside Activity Centre. Come dressed in your best fancy dress for Halloween. We’ll be doing some spells, potions and other spooky activities in the wood followed by a short boat trip to Autherely and back. One adult & one child £20, extra person £7.50. To book call 01902 754612. Wed 1 November, 11am-3pm. Wednesdays For All, New Art Gallery Walsall. Fun, creative workshops for all the family! Leaves, Acorns & Pumpkins: Autumn Foam Stampers. Ages 4+. Free. Drop-in. www.thenewartgallerywalsall.org.uk Wed 1, 8, 15, 22 November. Wolves Play Café, Boundary Way Allotments, WV4 4NT. 10.15-11.30am - Wolves in the Woods (Under 7s). 12.00-14.00pm - Drop-in Nature Play (Under 7s). Pay As You Feel supported by Severn Trent Community Fund www.wolvesplaycafe.org Thurs 2 November. Thursday Skills at the New Art Gallery Walsall. Learn new techniques in a mix of mediums and take away a masterpiece! Make a toy bear! 11am12.30pm: Age 4+ and 1.30-3pm: Age 7+. Booking essential. £4.50 per child. Call 01922 654400 to book or visit www.thenewartgallerywalsall.org.uk Fri 3 November. Wolves Play Café at Gatis Community Space, WV6 0ET. Wolves in the Woods Under 7s. 10.1511.30am. Pay As You Feel. www.wolvesplaycafe.org Fri 3 - Sun 5 November. Tipping the Light at Thinktank, Birmingham. Family fun to include a fantastic live show all about the science of light. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk Sat 4 November. Himley Bonfire & Fireworks. ‘A Night at the Movies’ - 2023 is 100 years since the Hollywood sign was first erected in tinsel town. Enjoy a stunning firework display set to your favourite Hollywood movie soundtracks! www.himleyhallandpark.co.uk/bonfire-tickets Sat 4 November. Bridgnorth Rugby Football Club Fireworks. Junior display 7pm, main display 7.45. www.eventbrite.co.uk Sat 4 November. Night of Colours Fireworks at Wolverhampton Racecourse. www.wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk Sat 4 November, 11am-3pm. Diwali at the New Art Gallery Walsall. All Ages. Free. Drop-in. Lantern & mandala craft workshops, Mehndi, Bollywood Dreams Dance Company, performances with authentic South Asian instruments including tabla and sitar. www.thenewartgallerywalsall.org.uk Wed 8 - Sat 11 November. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. www.grandtheatre.co.uk Sat 11 November. Festival of Light at Black Country Living Museum. Experience the joy and wonder of Diwali and join in the celebration. See the museum transformed after dusk and discover sound, light and dance experiences inspired by South Asian music and Bollywood glamour. www.tickets.bclm.com/events Tue 14 November - Sun 28 January. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, The Rep, Birmingham. www.birmingham-rep.co.uk Thurs 16 November, 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Wolverhampton Grammar School Sixth Form Subject Options Evening. www.wgs.org.uk Continued from P6... Continued on P14... 10 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON AUTUMN HALF TERM yowolves.co.uk OCTOBER Free activities at the city’s WV Active leisure centres FUN activities throughout the October half term for children and young people in Wolverhampton
About the bake Fun to make and share.Why not get creative and decorate with chocolate sprinkles or decorations to personalise your toffee apples. Raring2make! FUN IDEAS FOR MAKING THINGS TOGETHER ‘Cakes are healthy too, you just eat a small slice’ Mary Berry www.raring2go.co.uk Toffee Apples with Baking Mad For more great recipe ideas please visit our website: www.raring2go.co.uk Ingredients: 7 Apple(s) 265g Billington's Unrefined Golden Caster Sugar 130ml Water 0.5 tsp White wine vinegar 2 tbsp Golden syrup 30g Butter (unsalted) Method Step 1: Prepare the apples by cutting out a small hole in the top and attaching a stick. Lightly grease a baking sheet for placing the coated apples on. Step 2: Dissolve the sugar in the water over a moderate heat.When it has dissolved, stir in the vinegar, syrup and butter. Step 3: Bring to the boil and cook until it reaches a hard crack stage.This should take about 10 minutes.To test this drop a small amount in a glass of cold water. If it is ready a blob of toffee will form which is slightly stretchy but breaks with pressure. If using a thermometer, a hard crack should be between 146 - 155 degrees C. Step 4: Dip each apple into the toffee turning it to completely cover the apple. Step 5: Leave the apples on the prepared tray.Wrap in cellophane for gifting. For more great recipes visit Bakingmad.com and What are toffee apples made of? Toffee apples are the perfect treat for Bonfire Night or Halloween. Juicy apples are dipped into the sugar syrup and allowed to set.You can even add chocolate sprinkles at this stage too before your delicious toffee apple has set. 12 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! RECIPE
Join us for a festive journey like no other and explore the enchanted town of… Tickets include entry to PLAY@ farm attraction! Lower Drayton Farm, Penkridge, Sta ord, ST19 5RE Save 10% use code RG10X A NEW MAGICAL BOOK NOW: www.playatthefarm.co.uk/christmas allows you to try out your skating skills on our very own Glice® rink. www.wmsp.co.uk Sat 25 Nov - Sun 31 Dec (selected dates). Christmas Wonderland at Drayton Manor. Make unforgettable festive memories for the whole family at Drayton Manor’s ALL NEW Christmas Wonderland. Featuring ALL NEW festive shows and attractions, Thomas Land rides & shows, over 500 animals, plus snowfall each day. www.draytonmanor.co.uk Sat 25 November - Sun 24 Dec. Christmas at Severn Valley Railway. Santa Trains: Every weekend Sat 25 November - Christmas Eve inc Fri 22 December. The Enchanted Express: Every weekend Sat 2 - Sun 24 Dec. Carol Trains: 16, 22 & 23 Dec. www.svr.co.uk Sat 25 Nov - Sun 24 December. Santa Hunts, Black Country Living Museum. Weekends, plus 21 & 22 Dec. Santa is making a welcome return to the Museum this Christmas and this year it looks like he needs your help! Step up and join our elves to get Santa ready for the big day. Plus Glad Tidings on Fri & Sat evenings 8 - 23 Dec: Gather around our open fires, sing along with traditional carolers and Fifties favourites and enjoy traditional Christmas treats to get into the festive mood. www.bclm.com/Christmas Sat 25 November, Fri 1 - Sun 24 December. Chronicles of Dudley Zoo. See Santa in his Grotto set within the walls of the 11th Century Dudley Castle. www.dudleyzoo.org.uk Wed 29 November. Wolves Play Café at Boundary Way Allotments. Festive Fun - exploratory outdoor festive stay and play! 10.15am-11.30am. £6 per child and £5 siblings. SAVE! Use code: R2G123 for 10% off. www.wolvesplaycafe.org Fri 1 - Sat 23 December. Santa Boat Trips with Dudley Canal Trust. + Carols in the Caverns: 6, 7, 13, 14 Dec. www.dudleycanaltrust.org.uk Sat 2 - Sat 23 December. Enjoy Wolverhampton Christmas Grotto, Mander Centre, Wolverhampton. No need to book, just turn up. www.enjoywolverhampton.com Sat 2 - Sun 24 December, selected dates throughout December. Jingle Ville @ Lower Drayton Farm. Step into a world straight out of a storybook as you explore the charming town of Jingle Ville – the perfect backdrop for your family’s Christmas adventure. Discover hidden treasures, encounter delightful characters, meet friendly animals and make memories in this magical land before enjoying the indoor playbarns and animal zones of the farm’s PLAY@ attraction. SAVE! Use code RG10X for 10% off. www.playatthefarm.co.uk Continued on P16... 14 raring2go.co.uk 15 Raring2go! WHAT’S ON CHRISTMAS Raring2go! WHAT’S ON CHRISTMAS Sat 18 November. Wolverhampton City Centre Christmas Lights Switch-On 6pm. Event from 3-7pm. With performances from Lia White and 90s boyband Damage. Lights switched on by The Mayor, Father Christmas and Damage. Thurs 23 November. Wednesfield Christmas Lights Switch-On 6.30pm. Event from 4.30pm-7pm. Fri 24 November. Bilston Christmas Lights Switch-on 6.30pm. Event from 4.30pm-7pm. Sat 25 November. Tettenhall Christmas Lights Switch-on 6.30pm. Event from 4.30pm-7pm. Sun 26 November. Bantock House Christmas Lights Switch-On 6.30pm. Event from 4.30pm-7pm. Sat 18 November 2023 - Sun 7 January 2024. Gingerbread Trail, Wolverhampton City Centre. Follow Enjoy Wolverhampton’s Gingerbread Trail around the city centre, pick up clues and win prizes. Website and map available. www.enjoywolverhampton.com Fri 24 November - Sun 24 December. Santa Safari at West Midland Safari Park. Join us for a magical festive day out for the whole family, combining a four-mile winter Safari and a visit to Santa in his Grotto. Optional Extra: VR Sleigh ride. Plus between 24 Nov - 7 Jan: Safari Skating - join us for our brand-new festive experience, Safari Skating Santa’s Christmas Diary
Continued from P15... Continued on P18... 16 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON CHRISTMAS Sat 2, Sun 3, Sat 9, Sun 10, Sat 16, Sun 17, Fri 22, Sat 23 & Sun 24 December. Meet Santa at Wild Zoological Park, nr Bobbington. Receive a gift, watch the special christmas spectacular bird show “Festival of Light”, join a wildlife handling workshop and walk through the animal enclosures. Child ticket includes zoo entry, Santa visit and gift. To book visit www.wildzoo.co.uk Sat 2 December - Sun 7 January. Snow White Pantomime, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. Mirror, mirror, on the wall, don’t miss the fairest pantomime of them all! The ultimate festive family spectacular stars Kelle Bryan (Eternal, Hollyoaks, Loose Women) as the Good Fairy Elementa, with Gyasi Sheppy (CBeebies) as the dashing Prince and Niki Colwell Evans (X Factor, Blood Brothers, Kinky Boots) returns, but this time…she’s WICKED! They join Evie Pickerill (CBeebies) as Snow White, Tam Ryan as Muddles & Ian Adams as Nanny Nolly. WIN! Enter our competition to win a family ticket on P30. www.grandtheatre.co.uk Sat 2 December, 11am – 3pm. Christmas Makers’ Market, New Art Gallery Walsall and Walsall Leather Museum. Free entry. www.thenewartgallerywalsall.org.uk Mon 4 December. Wolves play Café at All Saints Community Centre, WV2 1EL. Festive Fun Pop-Up Play Cafe! Festive themed indoor play session. 10.15am11.30am. £6 per child and £5 siblings. SAVE! Use code: R2G123 for 10% off. www.wolvesplaycafe.org Tue 5 - Sun 1 December. Peter Pan the Musical, Old Rep, Birmingham. www.oldreptheatre.co.uk Thurs 7 December - Sat 6 January. Little Red Riding Hood, The Rep, Birmingham. www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
Tuesday – Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12noon-4pm / Closed Mondays and Bank Holidays The New Art Gallery Walsall, Gallery Square, Walsall WS2 8LG 01922 654400 thenewartgallerywalsall.org.uk What are you waiting for? Visit today! GREAT FOR ALL THE FAMILY Family friendly Costa on the Ground Floor Near to M6 Buggy Friendly Weekly, Sunday Art Club! FREE EVENTS AND WORKSHOPS: Holiday workshops for all ages Community Days and Cultural Celebrations newartgallerywalsall thenewartgallerywalsall RaringToGo_Dec22.indd 1 14/12/2022 08:46:08 Continued on P20... Continued from P16... 18 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON CHRISTMAS Fri 8 December - Sat 6 January. Treasure Island, Telford Theatre. WIN! Enter our competition to win a family ticket on P30. www.telfordtheatre.com Sun 10 December. Aston Alive Christmases Past at Aston Hall. Join us at Aston Hall, this most magical time of the year to celebrate the festive season! Meet our cast of historical characters and discover how they celebrate Christmas. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk Thurs 14 December. Evolution Drone Light Show, Wolverhampton Racecourse. www.wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk Fri 15 December. Wolves Play Café at Gatis Community Space, WV6 0ET. Festive Fun - exploratory outdoor festive stay and play! 10.15am-11.30am. £6 per child and £5 siblings. Save! Use code: R2G123 for 10% off. www.wolvesplaycafe.org
Funded by: birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank • • 4k Planetarium • Outdoor Science Garden Continued from P18... 20 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! WHAT’S ON CLICK HERE for more What’s On or visit www.raring2go.co.uk JOIN NOW FOR JUST £15 GET DECEMBER FREE Normal payments start January 2024 *Offer available 1.11.23-30.11.23 South Sta fordshire Council https://www.sstaffs.gov.uk/sports-and-fitness Winter Warmer JOIN TODAY Pop into your nearest leisure centre to sign up or join online now. Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre 01922 417790 Codsall Leisure Centre 01902 844032 Penkridge Leisure Centre 01785 714152 Wombourne Leisure Centre 01902 898202 JOIN NOW Mon 25 December - Fri 5 January 2024. Yo! Wolves Christmas Holidays. Looking for some fun and exciting things to do over the school holidays in Wolverhampton including HAF activities? Visit www.yowolves.co.uk Sun 31 December. Family New Years Eve Party at West Midland Safari Park. Bring in the New Year to the sounds of our resident DJ, a brilliant balloon drop and the chimes of Big Ben before dancing the night away until 1.00am! The Family New Year’s Party begins at 7:30pm and there will also be a children’s entertainer for the little ones! www.wmsp.co.uk Sun 31 December. New Years Celebrations at Drayton Manor. Choose between: Illusion Show - Experience unbelievable close up magic and slight of hand, while experiencing an indulgent 3-course festive fayre. Throughout dinner you will be entertained at your table followed by an Illusion Show that will blow you away. The evening will conclude with a family friendly disco. Fascination & Enchantment - Enjoy the evening with your young families with table magic captivating for all ages! Plus be fascinated by face painting of your choice, balloon modelling, party games and action dances along with a 3-course festive fayre. www.draytonmanor.co.uk Sat 6 - Sun 7 Jan 2024. Winter Steam Gala at SVR. Steam-heated carriages, breathtaking landscapes and steam locomotives – the perfect antidote to a cold winter’s day! www.svr.co.uk Sat 27 January 2024. 9.30am to 12.30pm Wolverhampton Grammar Junior School Open Morning (Year 1 to 6.) www.wgs.org.uk
PROFESSIONAL PR I VATE TUITION IN WOLVERHAMPTON Our qualified teachers offer 1-2-1 tuition in 11+ Grammar Entrance, Business, English, French, Geography, German, History, Maths, Science & Spanish for all ages as well as 11+ Mock Exams including Chuckra Mock Exams For more information come and visit us or contact us on info@helpinghandstuition.co.uk 01902 219171 / 07929 289919 370-371 New Hampton Road, Whitmore Reans, Wolverhampton WV6 0RX 22 raring2go.co.uk 23 Raring2go! RARING2READ Raring2go! TUTORS & PRE-SCHOOL Be in the next issue Call Jo 07762 204195 Let’s get your little one swimming! 01694 731407 wibblewobble@waterbabies.co.uk There are few things in life that are more important than teaching little ones how to swim. Not only could it save their life…it’s a great way to develop strength, flexibility and coordination, overcome struggles and fears, make new friends, and develop skills that will last them a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Join us anytime! Classes available now. When you’re ready, we’re ready. Raring2go! READING 2 Many parents become aware of their child’s dyslexia only when they start school, so we thought we’d offer some ideas to support young readers who are less confident. Learning to read is hard work and can be quite daunting, often also tinged with the fear that once you can read, the bedtime stories will stop. Here are some simple ways to ensure that reading stays fun and feels achievable. Dyslexia makes it even harder, so do ask for support, and look up information on The British Dyslexia Association website. Don’t feel that offering your child extra help is cheating or stalling their learning in any way. Allow your child to choose a book they want to read and let them start reading – genuinely allowing a child to choose (even if it is not what you would have chosen for them) is a significant factor in their investment in learning. Read together, and read at your child’s pace, not your own. When they make a mistake give your child time to have another try, but then say the word yourself and allow them to carry on - this keeps the flow going. Supporting Dyslexic or less confident readers Take breaks and only read in short, achievable blocks. Also take time to look at and discuss the pictures in the book – visual literacy is important too. Remember, learning to read is not a race against other classmates, so ignore the boasting parents in the playground! Try to think of your role at home as to ensure that they keep enjoying books and stories. For an older child, make use of audio books too; if there is a class book and your child struggles to read it, download the audio version. They will keep up with the class, be able to join in discussions about the plot and characters, and knowing the story of the book will remove the anxiety associated with the challenges of reading. Look out for Super Readable books, such as those by Barrington Stoke. These are printed a little differently, with good quality paper, proper spacing and paragraph breaks too. And they only work with the very best writers working today, so you will also get a great story. All the photos on these pages are of super-readable Barrington Stoke books for readers of all ages. There are more tips on supporting dyslexic readers on our website, so check out our blog on this! By Tamsin Rosewell, Kenilworth Books Morning sessions Afternoon sessions Breakfast club sessions Funded and non-funded places for 2-5 year olds 30 hours available For more information or to arrange a visit contact Lisa on call: 07703 616822 email: pippinsdaycare@gmail.com facebook.com/pippinsdaycare Trinity Methodist Church, Histons Hill, Codsall REGISTER NOW FOR SEPTEMBER 2024
24 raring2go.co.uk Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES Weekly football classes for ages 2 - 10 years School Holiday Camps Find your nearest class at kixx.org.uk Unlock your child’s potential with Stagecoach Performing Arts Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year olds, where students learn to embrace life with creativity and courage. Find out more today: Stagecoach Performing Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd. w @ www.stagecoach.co.uk/wolverhampton www.stagecoach.co.uk/dudley wolverhampton@stagecoach .co.uk dudley@stagecoach.co.uk 07920 407046 ACT! Stagecoach Dudley & Wolverhampton A PLACE TO Creative Courage For Life! AND SING, DANCE
Independent Day School for Boys and Girls Junior School ages 4-11 Senior School ages 11-16 Sixth Form ages 16-18 Wolverhampton Grammar School Compton Road, Wolverhampton, WV3 9RB 01902 422939 | www.wgs.org.uk | admissions@wgs-sch.net Registered charity (England and Wales no. 1125268) Join our Senior School A co-educational independent day school with transport links across Wolverhampton from Telford, Bridgnorth, Stourbridge, Oldbury, Walsall and Penkridge. • Currently registering for entry to Year 7 and Sixth Form for September 2024 • Scholarships and Bursaries available to help with school fees • Sixth Form Subject Options Evening – Thursday 16th November, 6.30pm to 8.30pm • Year 7 Entrance Test – Thursday 18th and Friday 19th January 2024 Bridgnorth Telford Penkridge Oldbury Stourbridge Walsall Helping Kids Shine The TASTY, EASY way to get vitamins into little people We all want our little ones to shine in life! Haliborange Softies are a great way to support your child’s growth and development, providing some essential nutrients they need every day. Haliborange softies are available in a range of formats and flavours to ensure your little ones top up their vitamins every day without fuss. Scan to learn more about Haliborange
Call 01902 751088 51 Newbridge Crescent,Tettenhall,Wolverhampton,WV6 0LH www.newbridgeprepschool.org.uk Creating Choice at 11+ for Boys 2-7 & Girls 2-11 Small class sizes • Wrap around care from 7.30am – 6.00pm GRADED EXCELLENT IN EVERY CATEGORY THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL INSPECTORATE 2017 • THE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL INSPECTORATE 2017 • INDEPENDENT PREPARATORY SCHOOL OF THE YEAR SCHOOLS GUIDE 2020 REGISTER NOW Try the multi-award winning online reading program for kids aged 2–13. Plus, receive a FREE Rewards Book! Reading Eggs is the perfect way to teach your child to read and prepare them for school. Designed by experienced educators, the program is based on scientific research to improve reading and phonics skills in just 15 minutes a day. In fact, 91% of parents see an improvement within a few short weeks. Perfect for school preparation, whether your child is starting Reception or returning after the summer break, and cleverly designed to grow with your child. • Used in over 193 countries • Over 20 million users • Used in over 12,000 schools • 1.1 million lessons every week BONUS Rewards Book! Valid for new customers only. FREE 30-DAY TRIAL readingeggs.co.uk/bts6 Scan QR code for 30-Day FREE trial *This 30-day free trial offer allows you to add up to 4 children. You will be charged at the end of the trial period unless you cancel before this time. You can cancel any time by selecting the ‘Cancel Subscription’ option located on the ‘Manage My Subscription’ page in your family dashboard. Offer is valid for new UK customers only. Offer limited to one free Rewards Book per family while stocks last.
30 raring2go.co.uk 31 Raring2go! WIN Raring2go! WIN Competitions! To enter all the competitions on this page plus loads more and for terms and conditions Congratulations to our Summer competition winners! Lower Drayton Farm tickets - Jessica Barton, Stephanie Stanesby & Louisa Jennings Duck Race 7 Night Holiday - Nicola Bayliss Thinktank tickets - Alfie Southwick WIN tickets to Jingle Ville @ Lower Drayton Farm! We’ve teamed up with Staffordshire farm attraction PLAY@ Lower Drayton Farm to give away a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) to its NEW magical Christmas adventure, Jingle Ville - worth up to £120! To win a family ticket for 2 adults & 2 children to Lower Drayton Farm CLICK HERE Closing date: Sun 12 November 2023 WIN a family ticket to West Midland Safari Park We have a family of 4 ticket up for grabs for West Midland Safari Park’s Spooky Spectacular event this October 2023 half-term. The Park will be brimming with Halloween decorations and hundreds of pumpkins in it’s impressive Pumpkin Patch. To win a family ticket to West Midland Safari Park CLICK HERE Closing date: Thurs 19 October 2023 WIN tickets to Black Country Living Museum! We have a family ticket for 5 up for grabs for ‘Halloween Nights’ at Black Country Living Museum. Running between Sat 28 -Tue 31 October (6.30-10pm). Prepare to be spooked as Black Country Living Museum opens its doors to little devils and ghouls! To win a family ticket for 5 to the Black Country Museum CLICK HERE Closing date: Fri 20 October 2023 WIN tickets to the Festive Gift Fair at the NEC! The biggest and the most lively indoor Christmas shopping fair in the heart of the country is back...fabulous bargains, great musical entertainment and so much choice! Get your preparations off to a flying start. To win a pair of tickets to the Festive Gift Fair this November CLICK HERE Closing date: Sun 5 November 2023 WIN a family ticket to Peter Pan the Musical at The Old Rep in Birmingham! Join Peter Pan and his band of mischievous Lost Boys on a journey that will whisk you away and remind you of what it is to be a child again. Peter Pan The Musical runs from 5 - 31 December. To win a family ticket for 2 adults & 2 children to Peter Pan the Musical CLICK HERE Closing date: Fri 8 December 2023 WIN a family ticket to Snow White at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre! Take a bite of panto delight with spectacular scenery and costumes, magical special effects, wicked humour and plenty of audience participation! SNOW WHITE promises to be a festive spectacular for all ages this Christmas. To win a family ticket for 2 adults & 2 children on Sunday 3 December at 5pm to Snow White CLICK HERE Closing date: Sun 12 November 2023 WIN a family ticket to Treasure Island at Telford Theatre! Get set for a swashbuckling pantomime on the high seas when Treasure Island comes to Telford Theatre from 8 December 2023 to 6 January 2024. Starring Winner Of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing Katya Jones as The Island Chief. To win a family ticket for Treasure Island on Saturday 23 December at 11am CLICK HERE Closing date: Sun 12 November 2023 CLICK HERE
CBEEBIES’ CBEEBIES’ WOLVERHAMPTON GRAND THEATRE PRESENTS GRANDTHEATRE.CO.UK #WOLVESGRANDPANTO
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