Glasgow Issue 53 Sept/Oct 2015
drama for the early years
07736298013 www.monkeydrama.co.uk ALANA@MONKEYDRAMA.CO.UK
Places available from Birth-5 years
www.somersetnursery.com
6 Fitzroy Place Glasgow G3 7RH
14—20 SEPTEMBER 2015 glasgowdoorsopenday.com
AWARD-WINNING URBAN DANCE SCHOOL FOR HEALTHY, HAPPY KIDS Step It Up Dance has arrived in Glasgow with their unique brand of classes and parties for tots to teens! Find out more and book online at stepitupdance.co.uk /StepItUpDance
@StepItUpDanceUK
07712 126 617
Fairfield Shipyard Offices ©McAteer Photograph
Glasgow’s really useful magazine for families with children aged 0-12
Namus News & poribus Views
In this issue... 2-4
News & Views
5
Dad’s Corner
6-7
Clubs & Classes
n Wi
8-11 Education & Independent Schools 12-15 What’s On?
Get in touch Editor: Anna Wignall editor@familiesglasgow.co.uk, 07796 946661 Keep up to date at www.familiesglasgow.co.uk or find us on facebook Next issue: Bumper Christmas Issue (Nov/Dec). Special features: What’s on at Christmas, Christmas Gift Guide, Winter Wear/Sports Special! Booking deadline: 19 October Special ad rates and offers available, call or email to find out more. We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers cannot be held responsible for the claims made by advertisers.
Labels4kids launch Christmas collection Labels4Kids has started a great range of personalised gifts for Christmas or birthdays from Disney, Hasbro, Nickelodeon and Mattel for your kids! Have your child’s name and the names of their friends written into a story, such as Frozen or Spongebob. They stock everything from Ninja Turtles to Disney Princess, books, clocks and nametags. Allow 3 weeks for delivery, as they are custom made to your personal requirements. Go to www.labels4kids.com/fam to see more.
Baby Sensory Classes
Designed by kris@grafikfabrik.co.uk. Printed By Warners (Midlands) plc. Copyright: Families Glasgow Magazine March 2015. Families Glasgow is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Glasgow are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.
• Light shows
Award winning Baby Development classes for babies from birth to 13 months
• Brain games • Puppet shows • Bonding/Massage
Classes Running Weekly in Cumbernauld & North Glasgow To find out more details about classes visit our website www.babysensory.com
Contact: Gail Macdonald Tel: 07702806640 E-mail:glasgownorth@babysensory.co.uk
Open 7.30am - 6.00pm Mon to Fri Forest Kindergarten Programme Term time places also available For teachers, students & others working in an educational setting.
Places available for 0 – 5 years Easy parking/drop off ‘Provides a caring & nurturing environment’ (Care inspection report December 2013)
Telephone 0141 631 5235 nursery@cassiltoun.org.uk www.cassiltounstablesnursery.co.uk
Castlemilk Stables, 59 Machrie Road, Castlemilk, G45 0AZ Company Registration No SC423689
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Families Glasgow
There has never been a better opportunity for gymnastics fans to see the world’s best gymnasts in action, when the 2015 World Gymnastics Championships come to the SSE Hydro, Glasgow 23 October - 1 November. Win! One of 4 tickets to the Women’s Qualification morning session on the 24th October 2015. For a chance to win, please enter online at www.familiesglasgow.co.uk
Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre Year Round Children & Families Programme
Shows, Workshops, Birthday Parties info@maskandpuppet.co.uk www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Tel: 0141 339 6185
8-10 Balcarres Ave, Kelvindale Glasgow G12 0QF
Music and Dance for Boys and Girls aged 6 months - 5 years www.ballet4babies.co.uk
Families Glasgow copies are FREE and available through a selected network of distribution outlets through Glasgow.
Inc. Bank Holidays (except Christmas & New Year)
World Gymnastics Tickets
Miss Claire info@ballet4babies.co.uk
0775 911 9965
www.tsdc.co.uk
Bow of Fife, Cupar KY15 4NQ email: info@tsdc.co.uk tel: 01337 810391
FFiafmeialyys
Come along and join the fun at 2 of Fife’s Leading Attractions
Fun D
Find us at North Queensferry, Fife KY11 1JR.
Open daily from 10am 01383 411880
www.deepseaworld.com
Two of Fifes leading visitor attractions have joined forces this Summer to ensure rain or shine there is an exciting day out awaiting your family! Dive into the deep this Summer at Deep Sea World, Scotland’s National Aquarium and take a walk on the wild side at The Scottish Deer Centre based in 55 acres of glorious Fife Country side. All visitors to the attractions this Summer will be offered the opportunity for a further discount at the alternate attraction. Follow both attractions on facebook for regular updates on their exciting Summer programme of events. Terms & Conditions apply. Receipt of entry to Deep Sea World / The Scottish Deer Centre must be presented when purchasing tickets. Offer valid until 31/09/15
News & Views
BBC Good Food Show Scotland launches the quest for Glasgow’s Best Independent Food Shop The BBC Good Food Show Scotland is on the hunt for Glasgow’s Best Independent Food Shop for the third year in a revamped format using social media to cast the net as wide as possible. The Shows are once again teaming up with the BBC Good Food Senior Food Editor, Barney Desmazery, to scour the region for Glasgow’s hidden gems and calling on the Glaswegian locals to nominate their favourites. However this year, for the first time, shops can be nominated on Twitter and Instagram, and the shop with the most nominations will be automatically shortlisted and visited by the judges. The winner will receive a free stand at the BBC Good Food Show Scotland at the SECC from 6 – 8 November 2015 to showcase their shop to thousands of food loving visitors. • Judges will be looking at the following: • Range of international and local produce • Quality and value of produce • Product knowledge and enthusiasm • Customer service • Services, facilities and community involvement To nominate local independent food shops, visit bbcgoodfoodshowscotland.com/glasgows-best-independentfood-shop or to nominate on Twitter or Instagram, just write the name and/or social media tag of the producer and then tag @BBCGoodFoodShow with the following #GFSFoodShop
Glasgow Doors Open Day is back! This annual built heritage festival takes place across Glasgow between 14th – 20th September 2015. The festival celebrates the buildings, streets, parks, architecture, history and people of the city with over 100 buildings opening their doors and a programme full of walks, tours, talks and events. This year there is a big focus on Industrial & Technical Heritage of Glasgow helping us to discover how our city has developed. From Whisky Bonds to Carpet Factories to Theatres and Private Homes, there is something for everyone. The most exciting thing for us is that for the first year ever they have organised a dedicated children’s programme with over 40 buildings and events all for FREE! This will take place alongside the main event with events across the whole city! From creating your very own stained glass windows or puppet, to designing an extension or posters, from trying out curling to discovering a WW1 trench, and the highlight – getting lost in a straw bale maze! See the highlights of the programme below in a treasure trail map. For more information and details of the full programme see www.glasgowdoorsopenday.com
Families Glasgow
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News & Views
Party Time! See our online listings for a huge selection of party ideas www.familiesglasgow.co.uk
Nerf Wars Parties! Our parties are the “Talk of the Class”. Our expert team of professional youth workers are currently running Nerf Wars Parties. These have been hugely popular in Edinburgh and we are now excited to expand into Glasgow and Fife too! We take the living room battle to a whole new level allowing up to 48 players hours of structured games ideally suited to their age group. Any player aged 6+ is welcome to play and we love it when parents get involved in playing too! If Nerf Wars isn’t your cup of tea then don’t worry, let our team take care of it and you can sit back, relax and watch your child have the best birthday party yet! Check out our website as we are always expanding and excited to be offering new parties soon! Contact 07969 647 848 alex@airsoftdelivered.co.uk www.AirsoftDelivered.co.uk www.Facebook.com/AirsoftDelivered (Please do mention Families Glasgow if you book)
Bushcraft Birthday Parties Fed up with artificial, indoor birthday parties? For something completely different, how about an outdoor, bushcraft birthday party! If your kids (or big kids) love adventure programmes or books, our Woodland birthday party lets them safely unleash their inner adventurer. Deep in our wood, near Balfron, we offer outdoor bushcraft adventures and fun activities.
Activities Available include:
Minecraft: Find and build your tools and somewhere to hide! Hit the Target: Out of reources in the woods, make a bow & arrow, slingshot and aim for the bullseye! Crafty time: Make cool stuff like dreamcatchers & stick people or decorate magic wands Den Building: Plain and simple...create a cool den with natural materials Campfire Cooking: make bread & cupcakes over the campfire Fire Lighting: how to light fires . . . and put them out! Treasure Hunt: solve the clues and find the treasure Woodworking (Age 10+): use tools and axes to make cool stuff
Don’t take our word for it – read what others say: “It was fantastic. No mean feat to teach 13 children to make bows and arrows. Thank you again” “Our party was for twelve 9 year old boys, with three activities. The party was the talk of the town for the next few days at school – our son felt like quite the celebrity! We will be returning and Heartily recommend this great, value for money experience” “The kids didn’t stop, they had a ball.”
What your party includes:
• 2 hours in our woodlands with one activity • Toasted marshmallows round the campfire • Services of our fully trained and insured bushcraft leaders • Optional Extras • Second activity (30 mins) £ 50 • Running wild in our woods (1hr) £ 50 • Overnight camp from £150
BUSHCRAFT BIRTHDAY PARTIES Come and have fun in the woods for a unique Birthday Party. Choose from a wide range of activities, toast marshmallows around the campfire & give your child an amazing party to remember!
UNLEASH THE ADVENTURE!
In the grounds of the Balfunning Estate, near Drymen 30 mins from Glasgow: https://goo.gl/maps/ Vnqas www.greenaspirationscotland.co.uk info@greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk 01360 449 220
Also available for schools, group bookings & events!
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Families Glasgow
Contact 01360 449220 www.greenaspirationsscotland.co.uk near Balfron Station (Please do mention Families Glasgow if you book)
Did you know In the UK, British consumers throw away 4.2m tonnes of edible food each year, equivalent in weight to 86 QE2s. Nearly 12% of all food purchased is avoidably wasted, at an estimated cost to each family of £700 a year, or almost £60 a month. The foods most commonly found in British bins are bread, vegetables, fruit and milk.
Top Tip to Try If your kids keep leaving their crusts, cut them off before serving and freeze the crusts. They can be used for breadcrumbs (blitzed and lightly toasted) or kept for Christmas bread sauce or toasty ‘bread stick’ dippers at your next party! For more great food saving tips see: scotland.lovefoodhatewaste.com/
Dad Page
The Dad Network’s And now a word UNICEF Charity Campaign from our sponsors... A UK-based parenting network for dads is building on its online presence by launching a charity video campaign to raise money for UNICEF UK. #DOTHEDADDANCE is a campaign aiming to unite dads around the world in having fun as dads whilst raising money for less privileged children. The campaign is simple. Dads film themselves dancing to their favourite song, with or without their children. They upload it to social media using the hashtag #DOTHEDADDANCE and then tag / nominate some of their dad friends to do the same. After this, they donate £2 to UNICEF UK via a unique text code. Al Ferguson, founder of The Dad Network UK said; “I hope that this campaign captures the attention of dads who want to stand up and be counted. I want dads to have fun and I want this to raise a lot of money for a great charity” The Dad Network is calling out to all dads to take part in the campaign in order to get a great response and valuable contribution to the lives of hundreds of children. For more information on the campaign, visit: www.thedadnetwork.co.uk/dothedaddance
We all know what it’s like to feel physically and mentally exhausted from a busy day at work or with the kids and coping with everything can be an everyday battle. Did you know that taking Pharmaton Vitality Capsules helps reduce temporary tiredness and restore vitality when taken daily, and can be taken for a period of twelve weeks? Pharmaton Vitality Capsules is packed with the unique Ginseng G115, vitamins and minerals to help relieve temporary periods of fatigue and restore vitality. It is clinically proven to enhance mental and physical performance. Pharmaton Vitality capsules are also supported by over 30 clinical trials. Try Pharmaton Vitality Capsules, and never give up. (Licensed medicine) For temporary periods of fatigue. Always read the label.
Sneaky Sister... by www.thefamilylifer.com
See our massive family friendly what’s on listings at
www.familiesglasgow.co.uk
“Daaaaaady...” “Yes, Ava?” (Who is age 5) “Can I have a glass of milk?” “Yes but there’s not enough milk for both of you - so you’ll have to share half a glass each tonight. Go tell Sam.” “Saaaaaaam! Daddy says there’s not enough milk for you!” Hmmm... can you just imagine when she’s 16...?
Did you know ...that babies learn different aspects of language from mum or dad. Mums are more likely to coo to babies and dads to talk in ‘proper’ language. Both are good for how babies learn language. A team at Washington State University attached microphones to parents and recorded verbal exchanges with kids, using speech recognition software. They believe women’s language promotes bonding, while the more adult speech of dads gives them a bridge to adult life...
FRIENDS They’ll think it’s COOL.
You’ll know it’s
EDUCATIONAL.
Inspiring tuition FREE trial session! Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition for 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities. The centres are open 7 days a week, meaning Explore can fit into busy family life. As Explore members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum in England and the Curriculum for Excellence in Scotland. Find out how your child can benefit from Explore Learning membership today. Book your free trial at www.explorelearning.co.uk.
ENRICHING
memorable
awesome different
COOL
ENROLL YOUR CHILD
TODAY!!
www.bricks4kidz.co.uk/glasgow B4KGlasgow
@Bricks4KidzGla
BRICKS4KIDZ.CO.UK LEGO® is a registered trademark of the LEGO® Group of companies which does not sponsor, authorize or endorse these programs. Creative Learning Corporation common shares are listed on OTCBB under the ticker symbol CLCN. © 2013 Bricks 4 Kidz
Families Glasgow
Sept/Oct 2015
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Clubs & Classes
Alliance Francaise Established in 1982, the Alliance Française de Glasgow is the official French cultural centre and language school for Glasgow and the West of Scotland.
Language Centre:
We offer French courses for adults, teenagers and children of all levels. Our teachers are all native speakers and fully qualified to teach French as a foreign language. Our classes are held throughout the week (morning, lunchtime and evening sessions are available) and cover levels from complete beginners to advanced.
Exam Centre:
Razzamataz Theatre School Razzamataz Theatre Schools is a fantastic place to be for children aged 4-18. We have weekly classes in Bearsden and Newton Mearns that provide excellent dance, drama and vocal tuition. Our teachers are highly trained, motivated and teach a range of styles including street dance, pop singing and musical theatre. We have many exciting opportunities including our annual showcase in the Armadillo in Glasgow and we also have the opportunity to perform in Her Majesty’s Theatre in London next year! We recently awarded two of our students a Scholarship in conjunction with The Stage Newspaper which entitled them to a year’s free tuition with us for their hard work, effort and talent. Razzamataz has a strong emphasis on fun and confidence building whilst learning new skills in a safe, fun environment! To book your free taster session please call Louise or Lyndsey on 07787066282 or email glasgowsouth@razzamataz.co.uk for classes in Newton Mearns or glasgownorth@razzamataz.co.uk for classes in Bearsden.
Fun Language Classes at the Language Hub Just recently short-listed for Glasgow’s favourite business award, the Language hub is a children’s bookshop and language school for all. The centre offers bilingual support sessions and reading events taking place regularly. In fact on the 26th of September, join them for their European Day of Language celebrations. Do you like quizzes, arts&crafts, like stories, face painting or prefer yummy food? Enjoy these and more and learn all about Europe and languages. A few surprise guests and familiar faces will be there too. The event will be running from 11:00-16:00 at The Language Hub children’s bookshop, 52 Keith Court, G11 6QW. Find out more at www.thelanguagehub.co.uk
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The AF Glasgow is an official examination centre where you can obtain the official French diplomas awarded by the French authorities and recognized internationally. The AF Glasgow is also the ideal place for pupils to prepare for their National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher French examinations.
Cultural Centre:
Our teaching activities are complemented by cultural and social events such as our ‘Cafés’, wine tastings, talks, exhibitions, etc. Our multimedia library provides our members with a wide selection of items (books, DVDs, learning materials, etc) suitable for all levels, as well as an exclusive access to Europresse, a website which offers more than 1500 titles online. Let our qualified and experienced team lead you and your children into the words and world of “la Belle France”. Contact details: 0141 331 4080, admin@afglasgow.org.uk www.afglasgow.org.uk
Little Kicks Approved Football Training From 18 Months To 7th Birthday
Little Kicks will be beginning its new classes starting Sunday 6th September and is taking bookings now. Classes will be taking place in Bearsden at Killermont Parish Church, Rannoch Drive on Sundays and will be running the following sessions on Sundays. - Sunday 1:15pm-2:00pm - Sunday 2:15pm-3:00pm - Sunday 3:15pm-4:00pm
“Junior Kickers” (2-3.5 years) “Mighty Kickers” (3.5-5 years) “Mega Kickers” (5-7 years)
Limited spaces still available in Newton Mearns and Bellshill classes check for availability. Little Kicks focuses on teaching children new skills, keeping them fit and healthy and loving every minute of it! Nothing is more rewarding than watching a child learning new skills, keeping fit and loving every minute of it! That’s why more and more parents are bringing their children along to our training sessions. www.littlekicks.co.uk, fkhan@littlekicks.co.uk Tel: 0141 569 6439
Clubs & Classes
07712 126 617 www.stepitupdance.co.uk
Step It Up Dance Taking Over The City Funky, Creative And Dynamic Urban Dance Classes
D
ance fever has hit Glasgow as Step It Up Dance, Scotland’s largest and fastest growing urban dance company, spreads across the city with its structured, award-winning creative and dynamic classes for tots
to teens. The classes have been a huge hit with kids since the company launched in Glasgow at the start of the year in various locations, including The Couper Institute & Renfrew Masonic Hall, with an additional six venues being announced in the coming months. Step It Up Dance teaches kids from tots to teens everything from Breakdance and Street Dance to Hip Hop and Cheerleading. The ‘Mums in the Know’ award-winning classes and its netmums award-winning parties provide a fun, active and exciting way for kids to exercise and simultaneously build their confidence. The company was launched in 2012 following a research project founder Niki Hutchison worked on in her previous career. Niki spent two years looking at ways to reduce antisocial behaviour and inspire kids. A key finding was that in order to remain on a positive path, children need a strong role model and/ or the opportunity to pursue an activity such as sport or dance.
With the results of this research project, and following a period working on the development of the Curriculum for Excellence, Niki created Step It Up Dance with the main objective being to provide a fun, active and exciting way for kids to get fit and active, whilst also helping to strengthen their confidence and self-esteem. Currently over 40 highly skilled and professional dance teachers run over 100 classes every week teaching over 1500 kids, from 18 months old to teens, across the central belt in around 80 locations. Venues range from soft play and community centres to private and public nurseries, where the company has launched a unique Hip Hop curriculum for Under 5's. This curriculum is based on the Scottish Pre-Birth To Three Framework & Curriculum for Excellence and is designed to encourage kids to develop listening, memory and creative skills as well as promoting motor skills and fun, expressive movement, both individually and in groups. Classes also run in a large number of schools across the country, where the bespoke sessions have become part of the curriculum. Niki said: “I am delighted with the initial response to rolling out our urban dance classes and parties in Glasgow. The feedback has been amazing which is one of the reasons we will be announcing the launch of even more classes all over the city in the coming months, due to overwhelming customer demand. “Our classes ensure that every child, regardless of age, dance experience and capability feels truly welcome and part of a very special team. We work closely together to not only find the true potential in all kids, but also help build their confidence and most importantly have fun at the same time, which is our key objective. We can’t wait to welcome even more Glasgow kids to our classes and parties over the coming term.”
Rugbytots Glasgow South Up and Running Rugbytots Glasgow South has a venue in Shawlands which started in April with classes being held at Newlands South Church. Trevor Carmichael who played for Local rugby team GHA RFC runs Rugbytots Glasgow South and is looking to expand within the Southside of Glasgow. Trevor’s comments “Rugbytots is a great activity for boys and girls, seeing them having fun and growing over the term is a joy to watch and makes this so worthwhile” Rugbytots is a structured weekly play session for 2 to 7 year old boys and girls. The main aim of Rugbytots is fun. The sessions are designed to increase children’s basic motor skills such as balance, agility, and hand/eye coordination in a fun and energetic environment at the same time as encouraging social skills such as sharing, team work and taking turns. The classes are structured to teach and develop ball related skills that could be utilised in many sports. We use rugby as the medium to teach these skills. Our classes are the perfect springboard for the children to progress onto Rugby clubs, school teams, etc Classes run on a Saturday Morning and if you would like to come along for a FREE taster Class or require any additional information please email trevor@rugbytots.co.uk
Monkey Drama, Monkey Drama…what will we do today? Looking for a fun, award winning drama class to take your 2-5 year old to? Then book your wee one a free trial class at Monkey Drama! We go on the best adventures of the imagination, using drama, props, music and role-play to help the children to explore their worlds creatively. Every week is a different theme and as well as having lots of fun, the children can build confidence and enhance their personal and social skills. Monkey Drama is all about letting the children engage in structured dramatic play by jumping right into the heart of the chosen story or theme. We have public classes every Friday in Broomhill Community Church at either 9.45am or 11am. We can also visit your nursery for or school and we throw the most awesome parties! Get in touch with alana@monkeydrama.co.uk, call 07736298013. You can check us out of facebook or visit our website www.monkeydrama.co.uk Families Glasgow
Sept/Oct 2015
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Education
Been there, done that!
Tackling other parents about problems between the children
By Liat Hughes-Joshi
Losing sight of the fact the teacher has 29 other pupils to look after...
10 Mistakes that parents make when they’re new to school life
Complaining to the teacher based on what your child told you happened (only it didn’t!)
Your child tells you X did Y, you march in demanding answers from the teacher, only to discover that what your little one reported wasn’t actually correct. Stay open-minded until you find out the facts from all concerned.
Sweating the small stuff
Try to not get obsessed with reading levels, who got the hardest spellings and the like. It won’t go on their CVs after all. As long as they’re enjoying school and learning, that’s what matters most.
Getting embroiled in school gate competitiveness
Engaging with competitive parents is a lose-lose situation. If your child is ahead of theirs, they’ll hate you for it. If theirs has one up on yours, you’ll have to endure their smugness. Walk away or change the subject to something more interesting, like the weather.
Even if your protective instincts kick in, don’t head over to give the other mum what for. She probably won’t agree that her child is to blame and parental fall-outs can endure long after the kids forget. Speak with the teacher instead.
At ‘big school’, you aren’t going to get the daily chat with staff you might be used to at nursery or with childminders. Assume ‘no news is good news’.
Expecting your child to be pleased to see you at 3pm
With so much to learn, by home time many reception kids are exhausted. Skip the after-school activities in favour of quiet time back home and go with lots of early nights during the first term.
Focusing on academic rather than practical skills before they start
Ask reception teachers what they’d like their new charges to be proficient at and it probably won’t be about letters or numbers. What’s more important to settling in is for your child to be able to dress and undress for PE, use the loo independently and maybe recognise their name on their coat peg/ belongings.
Not naming absolutely anything of use or importance!
Not helping at school (or doing so for the wrong reasons)
Volunteering in the classroom or for the Parent Teacher Association will help you make friends and feel part of the school community.
Fretting about fall-outs
Reception children switch friends quicker than you can ask ‘who’s your best buddy now?’ It’s completely normal and bustups are quickly forgotten.
There’s a black hole in every single primary school into which children’s belongings fall, never to be seen again. If you want to maximise chances of getting lost uniform, pencil cases or shoes back, add their name to it all! (Editor’s Note: snappytags.co.uk, www.labels4kids.com/fam) Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).
Award-winning tuition Maths & English ages 5 -14
New skills Confidence Enthusiasm
Free trial session - book today! Glasgow Darnley
0141 404 1049
Glasgow East Kilbride
01355 587 220
www.explorelearning.co.uk 8
Sept/Oct 2015
Families Glasgow
At Kelvinside Academy
Small Class Sizes make for
Big Smiles
Open Day Saturday 19th September 1.30 - 4.00pm
Junior & Senior School Tours: 33 Kirklee Road, G12 0SW Nursery Tours: Balgray Campus, 40 Chesterfield Ave, G12 0BL
kelvinsideacademy.org.uk
Families Glasgow
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Independent Schools
Thinking about an Independent School Education for your Child?
I
ndependent schools in Scotland offer you the choice of small and large day schools, boarding schools, co-educational, and single-sex schools. Students are from sections of the community as diverse as the schools themselves. From September to November, most independent schools in and around Glasgow will be holding open days for prospective parents and children to get a ‘feel’ for the schools allowing you to decide if it the school might be a good fit for your child. Information, advice and guidance about choosing an independent school in Scotland is available from the Scottish Council of Independent Schools (SCIS). www.scis.org.uk T: 0131 556 2316 E: info@scis.org.uk PLUS we’ve highlighted some schools below that are worth a visit and some open day dates that we have heard about.
Wellington School
Open Evening - Tuesday 6 October 6pm -7.30pm and Open Afternoon - Wednesday 7 October 2-4pm
Glasgow Academy
Open Morning 17 November 9.30-11.30am and Open Evening 3 November 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Kelvinside Academy
Open Day 19 September 1.30pm - 4pm and Open Evening 3 November 6.30pm - 8.30pm
Kelvinside Academy
Belmont House School
At Kelvinside Academy, an independent co-educational day school for children from 3 to 18 years, we aim to educate the individual as a whole – mind, body and spirit.
Other independent schools in and around Glasgow that you might want to consider include The High School of Glasgow, St Aloysius’ College, Hamilton College, Craigholme School, Hutchesons’ Grammar School.
The right size
Prospective parents are welcome to visit the school year round
With a school roll of just under 600 pupils, Kelvinside Academy is large enough to provide a rich and challenging curriculum, both in and out of the classroom, and small enough to know each individual child.
The right challenge
Students are inspired and encouraged to think for themselves, ask questions and strive for excellence. Academic endeavour is balanced by the wide variety of extra-curricular opportunities. Challenges in and out of the classroom move boys and girls out of their comfort zones so that they discover more about themselves and the world around them. These challenges foster self-confidence, enterprise, resilience, leadership, service and teamwork.
The right values
Wellington School Wellington School ensures that your child gets the best start in life through excellent teaching, high quality pastoral care and a rich choice of extra-curricular activities. Enjoying a warm, friendly, family atmosphere, the school prides itself on realising the full potential of every child in the school. There is an excellent academic record for Higher, AH and university entrance - the school is consistently in the top 10. All pupils study 8 subjects in S3 and S4 whilst 18 subjects are offered at both Higher and Advanced Higher. The success is not simply academic however. Wellington School has nurtured Scottish international representatives in many sports and pupils hold prestigious awards both locally and nationally in art and music. With international school status and a thriving outdoor nursery, Wellington has a great reputation for both outdoor education and international education at all stages. Transition to Secondary School is made easy by Wellington’s P7 Remove, a unique experience linking Junior and Secondary and pupils may join the school at any stage if there are places available. Wellington School, Carleton Turrets, Craigweil Road, Ayr, KA7 2XH, Telephone: 01292 269321, info@wellingtonschool.org www.wellingtonschool.org. Open Days in 2015 – Tuesday, October 6th 6.00-7.30pm and Wednesday, October 7th 2-4pm.
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What makes us special is the unique way we combine individual attention and inspiring teaching within a happy and disciplined environment. If you can’t make Open Day on Saturday 19 September you are welcome to tour our Nursery, Junior and Senior Schools at a time that is convenient for you, please call Kerry Bottomley, Director of Admissions on 0141 357 3376.
WELLINGTON SCHOOL, AYR an opportunity for life
Phone 01292 269321 Website www.wellingtonschool.org e-mail info@wellingtonschool.org
Visit the School at any time - just phone 01292 269321
Open Evening Tuesday 6 October 6-7:30pm
Open Afternoon Wednesday 7 October 2-4pm Come and see for yourself! Let us help with the fees... ...fully and partly funded places at all stages
Independent Schools
Belmont House School Belmont House School is a unique place, offering a genuinely personal approach to education. With a roll of under 300 pupils from age 3-18 years, and with an aim to nurture well-rounded, happy children, it is a school with a vision to send balanced young men and women into the world, equipped with the self-confidence and educational attainment they need to lead successful, productive and fulfilling lives. The School offers a very wide range of academic subjects
and extra-curricular opportunities from Nursery through to Senior 6; every pupil matters and is strongly encouraged to both reach and surpass their academic potential while participating in the varied, wider life of the School. The School’s academic record is very strong with 88% pass rates at both Higher Grade and National 5 this year and the most recent inspection report praised the School’s “positive and inclusive ethos”, its “very good ethos of hard work and achievement” and a “consistently high standard of attainment in recent years.” Belmont House continues to offer real value for money and there is means-tested financial assistance for families keen to consider independent education. The School’s Nursery has partnership status with East Renfrewshire Council and is an exciting place to start education. Located in a spacious, vibrant building at the heart of the School, the Nursery provides 3-5 year olds with a wide range of educational experiences, cultivating solid foundations where confidence is developed, enquiry encouraged and a love of learning is established. There is a stimulating active learning curriculum, which makes use of a wide range of modern resources including an interactive smartboard, helping to build strong links for a seamless transition into Junior 1. An extensive new Nursery Garden and outdoor learning space was opened recently. Opening times from 8am-6pm provide wraparound care during term time.
The Glasgow Academy Our family-friendly Nurseries on all three of our sites care for children from the age of three. Well-trained and enthusiastic staff motivate younger children to learn through play and experiences that enable them to build confidence and skills for their next step to Kindergarten. Nowadays parents are looking for flexibility in their childcare arrangements and - wherever possible - we build flexibility into our Nursery opening hours and the sessions we offer. Click on the links opposite to see what we have to offer at Milngavie, Newlands and in Glasgow's west end.
THE GLASGOW ACADEMY KELVINBRIDGE MILNGAVIE NEWLANDS
Our Nursery ‘‘An exciting place to learn’’
We can make the difference Excellent care and imaginative learning for children from age 3.
Open Morning on Saturday 24th October 1000-1230 At Belmont House School, we value every child for the individual that they are. Discover how your son or daughter could benefit from small class sizes, personal attention and a seamless transition from Nursery to Junior School and Junior through to Senior School.
Seamless transition into our Prep school for P1. Full-time and part-time places available now!
Sandringham Avenue, Newton Mearns
0141 639 2922
Call us on 0141 342 5494 for an information pack.
www.theglasgowacademy.org.uk The Glasgow Academy is an educational charity: Charity number SCO 15638
www.belmontschool.co.uk
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What’s On Highlights
KidO
A musical adventure bursting with imagination for 3 & 4 year olds
Sat 19th & Sun 20th September - (10.00am - 4.00pm) FREE Puppet Shows / Tours / Exhibition
‘Amazing, brilliant and funny!’ KidO audience member, age 4. A neat and tidy man who likes everything in its place meets a nesting magpie who brings chaos in her wake. Can these two ever learn to live together? It looks unlikely, until a friend scoots in to help the pair live in perfect harmony. Scottish Opera’s fantastic show for 3 & 4 year olds shows that you can make music out of anything – as long as you have a bit of imagination. KidO uses vocal and body percussion to build up words, tunes and beats that kids love to join in with. A bowl of fruit, tinkling teacups and a plain old brown cardboard box… KidO takes a load of household objects, adds a healthy dose of fun and a giggle or two, and makes the everyday extraordinary. This exciting mix of live and recorded singing, percussion, opera and specially-written music is composed by Glasgowbased composer Katy Lavinia Cooper and directed by awardwinning children’s theatre director Lu Kemp.
The Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre has been called “Glasgow’s Wee Hidden Gem” and a “Jewel in a box”. See a free puppet show with Steve Ross at 11am/ 1pm/ 3pm. Meet Petra’s pull along wagon filled with marionette puppets. You can also visit Grant Mason’s film and special effects creature workshop, where the baby from Train Spotting was made. Try out our home-baking in the cafe, while the children can colourin, cut-out and assemble a puppet and/or a mask - Packs £1.50/ 2.50 for 2. Doors Open Day Partner GBPT. www.maskandpuppet.co.uk, info@maskandpuppet.co.uk tel: 0141 339 6185
Tickets are on sale now for KidO at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall’s Big Music for Minis – a fantastic weekend jam-packed with concerts, workshops and creative events for babies, toddlers and children aged 0-7 and their families. Touring Scotland Autumn 2015 KidO will tour to Banchory, Johnstone, Clydebank, Musselburgh, Shetland, Dundee and Glasgow. Glasgow Royal Concert Hall - Fri 9 & Sat 10 Oct, 11am & 2pm 0141 353 8000, glasgowconcerthalls.com Visit scottishopera.org.uk for more information Supported by Scottish Opera’s Education Angels
FREE Doors Open Day at SMPC
Go Wild Autumn Family Activities At National Museum of Rural Life, Sat 10 Oct - Sun 18 Oct (10.00-17.00)
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Come & join in the fun – anything could happen!
Holiday Fun for active adventurers, including den building, crafts and photography for ages 5+. Free with museum admission. See www.nms.ac.uk/rural For further information please call 0300 123 6789
What’s On Highlights
Join in the fun! World’s top gymnasts come to Glasgow
G
ymnastics is one of the most popular sports in the UK for school aged children, with thousands participating in schools and local clubs every week in Scotland. And there has never been a better opportunity for gymnastics fans across the country to see the world’s best gymnasts in action, when the 2015 World Gymnastics Championships come to the SSE Hydro, Glasgow 23 October 1 November. As part of the city’s commitment to developing a legacy
from hosting the event and encouraging more young people to take up the sport of gymnastics as part of an active, healthy lifestyle, Glasgow Life has produced an innovative schools pack. Produced in conjunction with education professionals, the pack provides a set of key learning resources aimed at primary and secondary school teachers and children across the country, giving them an understanding of this exciting world class sporting event coming to the SSE Hydro in Glasgow later this year. The primary pack has a specific focus on how gymnastics is linked to curriculum areas including literacy, maths and numeracy, health and wellbeing, expressive arts and social subjects. For more information on the schools pack or for tickets go to www.2015worldgymnastics.com
#2015WGC
ONE CHANCE. DON’T MISS OUT. Tickets on sale from only £8
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Families Glasgow
Sept/Oct 2015
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What’s On Highlights 5 September
6 September
Alice in Wonderland Eastwood Park Theatre, Eastwood Park, Rouken Glen Road, Glasgow, G46 6UG 0141 577 4956 www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk The young performers aged from 3 to 20 will retell this classic story with its colourful characters, through dance. 5pm / Standard £8 Concession £6
National Museum of Rural Life Country Fair National Museum of Rural Life, Philipshill Road, Wester Kittochside, East Kilbride, G76 9YR 0300 1236789 www.nts.org.uk Join us for a celebration of all things rural. Get up close to farmyard favourites and meet the stars of the sheep world in our entertaining ‘Sheep Show‚‘.10am-5pm / Adult £8 / £7, Child £4.50 (under 5 free). Family tickets for 2 adults and 2 children £23
5 September Doors Open Days: RSPB Lochwinnoch Rspb Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve, Largs Road, Lochwinnoch, PA12 4JF 01505842663 www.rspb.org.uk Come along and get a flavour of what our Reserve has to offer. 10am-4pm 5 September Pedal for Scotland: The Wee Jaunt - Glasgow Glasgow Green, Greendykes Street, The Saltmarket, Glasgow, G1 5DB 0141 287 5064 http;//www.glasgow.gov.uk Starting at Glasgow Green, the 6 mile ride follows a traffic free riverside route via the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome and Commonwealth village. Riders can then enjoy an array of entertainment at Glasgow Green. 9.30am / Child ‚- £3, Adult ‚- £5 (early bird limited time only)
12 September BBC Proms in the Park Glasgow Green Glasgow Green, Greendykes Street, The Saltmarket, Glasgow, G1 5DB 0141 287 5064 www.glasgow.gov.uk Join Alexandra Burke and the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Stephen Bell, for a glorious night of music of all kinds on the banks of the Clyde on Glasgow Green as we mark the Last Night of the Proms. † 7.15pm10pm / £13.50 £7.50 conc
See our FULL family-friendly listings at familiesglasgow.co.uk
12 September Dinosaur Zoo The Theatre Royal Glasgow, 282 Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 3QA www.atgtickets.com Direct from Australia, Earth‘s Dinosaur Zoo brings these awesome prehistoric creatures to the stage as you’ve never seen them before, up close and personal! 11.30am & 2.30pm / £15.40 - £30.40 plus £2.85 transaction fee 12 September Doors Open Day Mugdock Country Park, Craigallian Road, Nr Milngavie, Glasgow, G62 8EL 0141 956 6100 www.mugdock-country-park.org. uk As part of Doors Open Day, Mugdock Castle will be open today and our Castle Stewards will be on hand to answer questions and show you around. † 10am ‚- 4pm 19 September Cancer Research UK Pretty Muddy Bellahouston Park Bellahouston Park, 16 Dumbreck Road, Glasgow, G41 5BW 0141 287 5064 www.glasgow.gov.uk Race for Life Pretty Muddy is our brilliant 5k muddy obstacle course where you can show cancer that hell hath no fury like a woman in pink. 10:00, 10:15, 10:30, 10:45 / Women aged 16+: £19.99; Girls aged 13-15: £10.00
19 September Doors Open Day Free Puppet Shows / Tours / Exhibition Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Our doors will be open for a warm welcome from all at the Scottish Mask and Puppet Centre 10am-4pm 19 to 20 September Sponsored Night Walk Falls Of Clyde Wildlife Reserve, New Lanark World Heritage Site, South Lanarkshire, ML11 9DB www.nts.org.uk Will you brave the dark and raise money for the Scottish Wildlife Trust on their torch-lit charity walk? 7pm - 9pm / Minimum £20 donation per person 25 September Disney on Ice: Worlds of Enchantment Braehead Arena, Braehead Arena, Glasgow, G51 4BN www.braehead-arena.co.uk Get ready to enter Worlds of Enchantment featuring the most magical moments from across the kingdom in Disney On Ice presents Worlds of Enchantment.
A musical adventure bursting with imagination For 3 & 4 year olds Glasgow Royal Concert Hall 9 • 10 Oct | 11am & 2pm 0141 353 8000 glasgowconcerthalls.com Adults £7 | Children £5
Scottish Opera is core funded by
For more information go to
scottishopera.org.uk
Registered in Scotland Number SCO37531 Scottish Charity Number SCO19787
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What’s On Highlights 26 to 27 September Macic Time Alan’s Magic Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Magical mayhem in this, fun and colourful interactive magic show for all the family. 2.00pm / £5.95 27 September Funbox: Pirates and Princesses Motherwell Concert Hall And Theatre, Windmillhill Street, Motherwell, ML1 1AB 01698 403120 www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk Setting sail on an all new adventure for 2015; Pirates and Princesses is the brand new show from Anya, Kevin and Gary (formerly of the Singing Kettle). Together they are Funbox! 1pm & 3.30pm 27 September Macmillan Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning 1st Barrhead Scout Group, Arthurlie Street, Barrhead, Glasgow, G78 1BD 07564748129 www.1stbarrhead.com This is the 4th Macmillan worlds biggest coffee morning. 11am ‚3pm / Donation
4 October The Wonderful World of Lapin Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Performed in English/French, this is a unique bilingual show accessible to all, including non French speakers. 2.00pm / £5.95 9 October Scottish Opera: KidO Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, 2 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3NY 0141 353 8000 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Come and join us in a world of sound and rhythm where anything can happen! 11.00am & 2pm / Adult £7, children £5 10 October Big Music for Minis Family Concert Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, 2 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3NY 0141 353 8000 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Come along to our Family Concert and hear some of Scotland‘s finest traditional musicians in this special interactive gig. 11.30am / Adults £5, children £2, family and friends ticket £12 (2 adults & 2 children)
See our FULL familyfriendly listings at www.familiesglasgow.co.uk
17 October
10 to 11 October Children’s Classic Concerts: Monster Mash Up! Kids Percussion Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, 2 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3NY 0141 353 8000 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Bring your little monsters along for some mega musical mayhem! † 10.45am,12.45pm & 2pm, / Children £5 (adults go free) 10 to 11 October Jogscotland One Big Weekend Glasgow Bellahouston Park, 16 Dumbreck Road, Glasgow, G41 5BW 0141 287 5064 www.glasgow.gov.uk It’s a fantastic 5K timed runs which give runners of all abilities the perfect chance to get together. Why not bring a friend along, invite a relative or the kids! (as long as they‘re over 11 years old). 4pm / £14.99 (jogscotland/Scottish Athletics/Parkrun entry)/ £16.99 (standard entry) 10 October National Youth Choir of Scotland: Mini Music Makers Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, 2 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3NY 0141 353 8000 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Join NYCOS and their puppet friends in a fun and friendly session for parents and babies 11.45 am and 12.45pm, 11 October Play, Talk, Read Bus Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, 2 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3NY 0141 353 8000 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Hop aboard! The Play, Talk, Read Bus 10am to 4pm
Family crafts, den building, photography and more
Minecraft at the Spree Spiegeltent, County Square, Paisley, PA1 1BP www.renfrewshire.gov.uk Sharpen your survival skills in the Minecraft world as you attempt to storm The Spree castle! 11.30am to 1pm (weekdays) and 3 to 5pm (Saturday only) 14 October
10 –18 October
Albert’s Amazing Acrobatic Circus Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Effortlessly performed before your very eyes, witness bizarre feats of strength, death defying stunts and brilliant balancing, but a dark cloud descends across the circus tent, Fifi and Finbar have disappeared! With your help and a very special magnifying glass the show must go on
Call 0300 123 6789 for details
16 October
Free with museum admission East Kilbride G76 9HR www.nms.ac.uk/rural
National Museums Scotland Scottish Charity, No. SC011130 Image © Wattie Cheung
23 October 2015 World Gymnastic Championships The SSE Hydro, SECC, Exhibition Way, Glasgow, G3 8YW www.thessehydro.com Glasgow will welcome nations from across the globe as gymnasts compete for World titles and qualification to the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. / £15 - £288 24 October Beginner’s Guide to Witchcraft and Wizardry New Lanark World Heritage Site, South Lanarkshire, ML11 9DB www.nts.org.uk Celebrate Halloween at the Falls of Clyde! Begin by carving pumpkin night-lights, making witches’ brooms and magic wands. / £5 31 October Hallowe’en Cabaret Britannia Panoptican Music Hall, 117 Trongate, Glasgow, G1 5HD 01415530840 www.britanniapanopticon.org This Hallowe’en we will be having a family-friendly cabaret featuring spooky song, dance, comedy and much more. † 1.30pm & 3.30pm / Suggested Donation £5 31 October
11 to 16 October
Go Wild
Hello Kitty Live Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, 2 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3NY 0141 353 8000 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Now you can dance, sing and join in the fun with Kitty and her Friends in this fantastic live show! 1.00pm & 5pm / £25, £22, £18
Hairy Maclary’s Cat Tales Eastwood Park Theatre, Eastwood Park, Rouken Glen Road, Glasgow, G46 6UG 0141 577 4956 www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk A brand new show featuring your favourite characters including Hairy’s feline friends. 1pm / Standard £10 Family £35
Halloween Haunting Party Night Scottish Mask and Puppet Theatre, 8-10 Balcarras Avenue, Kelvindale, Glasgow, G12 0QF 0141 339 6185 www.maskandpuppet.co.uk Come in fancy dress for an evening of magical entertainment with Alex the Magician. 7.00pm / £8.50 Child (incl. party bag) £7.50 Adult 31 October Halloween Party! Scotland Street School Museum, 225 Scotland Street, Glasgow, G5 8QB 0141 287 0500 www.glasgowlife.org.uk Create a (scary?) animal mask inspired by our Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. † 11am-12.30pm & 1.30-3pm
Halloween & Bonfire Night Check out our great listings nearer the date! familiesglasgow.co.uk
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