FRE E H
TAKE ME
OME
Celebrate 20 years of
TWILIGHT at the MUSEUMS 14th-20th February 2026 of with the University Cambridge Museums
16 - 21 February 2026
©My Linh Le
Issue 92 January/February 2026
familiesonline.co.uk
Brand new Performing Arts courses for children Starting from Saturday 24 January 2026 Open to ALL children from Reception class through to Year 13
OUR COURSES Acting, Singing, and Dance classes build creativity, confidence, and performance skills through practical exploration of character, music, and movement. Musical Theatre Club combines all three, allowing students to apply their talents in collaborative projects and termly showcases. Courses are delivered across The Perse School’s exceptional facilities with all performances taking place at the award-winning Peter Hall Performing Arts Centre.
FIND OUT MORE: papa.perse.co.uk The Perse School, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 8QF
Contents & Competitions
Dear Reader, A new year can make many of us stop and think about what we have to be grateful for in the here and now. Our health, our loved ones, our homes, as well as what we might like to do in the future and what resolutions we might have. Maybe to slow down a little and spend more time with the family, to spend less time on our phones and be more mindful or simply to read a good book. Whatever your resolutions or plans might be, may 2026 bring you peace, joy, Wise wor and happiness. ds! You are n ever too o another goal or t ld to set o dream new drea a m. C. S Lew is
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What's in this issue? 4. News & Views 6. Nursery Listings 7. Baby Best Buys 8. What's On 11. Support Your Child With Swimming 13. The Ideal Window For Stem Education 14. The Importance of Drama 15. Clubs & Classes EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336, editor@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk ASSISTANT EDITOR: Suzanne Brown, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk
4 TICKETS TO THE LITTLE MERMAID AT KINGS LYNN CORN EXCHANGE
Take a deep dive under the sea as Enchanted Entertainment present a fin-tastic Easter pantomime version of The Little Mermaid. Boo the wicked Sea Witch as she rocks the boat with King Neptune, Ariel the mermaid and all their fishy friends in this magical family adventure. Packed with brilliant dance routines, well known pop songs, lots of audience participation and plenty of laughter for all the family To enter please visit our Facebook page @ FamCambsMag. Good luck. Please see the Facebook page for T&C’s.
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News & Views FOR SWEET DREAMS THIS VALENTINES WEAR MATCHING ORGANIC PJS BY PO.P Two-piece pyjamas in soft organic cotton pyjamas have long sleeves with extra long cuffs that can be folded up or down. The bottoms have an elastic waist and extra long ankle cuffs so they grow with your child! Plus matching PJ’s for mum too. Prices from £28.00 www.polarnopyret.com
Big Garden Birdwatch Returns in January 2026
The UK’s largest citizen wildlife survey, the Big Garden Birdwatch, will take place from 23–25 January 2026, the RSPB has announced. Now in its 47th year, the event invites people of all ages to spend one hour counting the birds they see in their gardens, balconies, or local parks, and submit their sightings online. In 2025, more than 590,000 people took part, recording over 9.1 million birds. The house sparrow retained its top spot as the most commonly sighted species, followed by the blue tit and woodpigeon. Organisers say even reporting “no birds” is valuable, as it helps track long term population changes. Launched in 1979 with the help of children’s TV programme Blue Peter, the Birdwatch has grown into a national tradition. The RSPB says the survey highlights both declines and recoveries in common species, and shows the power of communities coming together for nature. More info: www.rspb.org.uk
Lasting Power of Attorney vs Deputyship CELEBRATE READING TOGETHER: WORLD BOOK DAY 2026 ARRIVING SOON
World Book Day 2026 is set for Thursday, March 5th, and schools across the UK are gearing up to celebrate a love of reading. For parents, it’s a chance to spark their children’s imagination, encourage reading for pleasure, and join in nationwide activities designed to make books exciting. This year’s event promises special £1 book tokens—distributed through schools—that children can swap for exclusive new titles or put towards any book in participating shops. Many schools will invite students to dress up as favourite characters, hold reading competitions, or host visits from authors and illustrators. Organisers are urging parents to get involved by reading with their children, exploring libraries, or helping put together costumes. With the cost of living front of mind, many are turning to creative, homemade outfits. World Book Day’s mission is to make reading accessible to every child-reminding parents that sharing stories, in any form, is what truly matters.
Children’s Booker Prize announced
The Booker Prize Foundation has unveiled the Children’s Booker Prize, a major new award celebrating contemporary fiction for children ages 8 to 12. Supported by the AKO Foundation, the prize launches this year, with the first winner announced in February 2027. The award carries a £50,000 prize for the winning author, equal to the adult Booker Prize and aims to inspire a new generation of readers at a time when children’s reading for pleasure is at its lowest in twenty years. A shortlist of eight books will be announced in November, with at least thirty thousand copies of shortlisted and winning titles gifted to children across the UK and Ireland. Chaired by Frank Cottrell-Boyce, the UK’s Children’s Laureate, judging will involve both adults and children. 4 Families Cambridgeshire
If you lost the ability to make decisions for yourself, who would step in? If you have Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) in place, your chosen attorneys can act straightaway. Without them, even close family members can’t automatically deal with your finances or make decisions for you. Instead, they may need to apply to the Court of Protection to become your Deputy - a longer, more expensive and far more stressful process. Lasting Powers of Attorney LPAs must be made while you still have mental capacity. You choose who you want to act for you and can set out any preferences or instructions for them to follow. Once signed, the documents need to be registered before they can be used, which currently takes around 8–12 weeks. The registration fee is £92 per LPA, although some people qualify for a reduction or exemption. Once registered, there are no ongoing costs. Deputyship If you lose capacity without having LPAs in place, someone will need to apply to act as your Deputy, and it might not be the person you would have chosen yourself. A capacity assessment is required, often by a specialist. Your proposed deputy must gather financial information and submit several documents to the Court. The Court fee is £421, and the appointment process usually takes 12–18 months. After that, the deputy must pay a bond and file annual reports, with further fees attached. If you’d like advice on LPAs or Deputyship applications, please contact Cath Collins on 01945 898090 or cathcollins@vinelaw.co.uk.
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News & Views
TWILIGHT AT THE MUSEUMS
NHS App Simplifies Child Healthcare for Busy Parents
16-21 February 2026
Explore Cambridge museums after hours this February half term and celebrate 20 years of Twilight. Museums across the city will be opening their doors and turning the lights down low for a fun-filled evening of torchlit trails, hands-on activities, crafts, storytelling, and more. Organised by the University of Cambridge Museums, Twilight at the Museums marks its 20th year of after-hours adventures for families in 2026. Stay tuned for a special anniversary social media competition. All events are free or low-cost, and many are within easy walking distance, meaning families can fill their evening with activities. The full programme will launch on Wednesday 14 January 2026 on the University of Cambridge Museums website: www.museums.cam.ac.uk/theme/twilight To stay up to date and hear when the programme launches, you can sign up to the Twilight newsletter and follow the University of Cambridge Museums on Facebook and Instagram.
©My Linh Le
Children in Missing Out on Outdoor Play, Study Warns
A major study has found that children in the UK are spending significantly less time playing outdoors than previous generations, with many parents citing safety concerns, lack of green space, and academic pressures as key barriers. The research, conducted by academics at the University of Exeter, surveyed over 1,000 parents and children. It revealed that only 27% of children play outside every day, compared to 74% of their parents when they were young. Parents cited safety concerns, limited access to green space, and academic pressures as key barriers. Experts warn that this decline in outdoor play is affecting children’s physical health, mental wellbeing, and social development. The study calls for schools, local councils, and families to prioritise unstructured outdoor time, especially in early and primary years. Researchers urge policymakers to invest in safe, accessible play spaces and to recognise outdoor play as an essential part of childhood—rather than a luxury squeezed out by homework and screen time. More info: news.exeter.ac.uk
Parents across England can now manage their family’s healthcare more easily thanks to a new update to the NHS App. Announced in September 2025, the feature allows adults to switch between profiles for their children or dependents, similar to how streaming services like Netflix handle multiple users. The update means parents can book GP appointments, order prescriptions, and view vaccination records for their children without needing separate logins. NHS England says the change is designed to simplify access and reduce administrative barriers, particularly for busy families juggling multiple healthcare needs.
The Perse School wins double accolade in The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026 The Perse School, Cambridge has been awarded “East Anglia Independent Secondary School of the Year, 2026” and “East Anglia Independent School of the Year for Academic Excellence 2026” in The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide, securing a distinguished double accolade that recognises the school’s exceptional academic success and its long-standing commitment to providing a 3D education which places equal value on the academic, pastoral and extra-curricular development of each student. This is the fifth year in a row that the School has achieved the title for Academic Excellence, but the first time it has been crowned East Anglia Independent Secondary School of the year. Widely regarded as one of the most authoritative and influential guides to UK school performance, the Parent Power rankings highlight the country’s highest-achieving schools across every region. The awards celebrate not only outstanding exam results but also the ambition, imagination and dedication that shape pupils’ experiences and prepare them for life beyond school. Head Ed Elliott said “This double win reflects the impressive achievements of our students, the expertise familiesonline.co.uk
and passion of our staff, and the school’s commitment to providing an education that stimulates intellectual development, supports personal growth, and teaches pupils how to get the best out of new technologies and each other.” Alongside its rigorous academic programme, the school continues to broaden opportunities through its vibrant co-curricular offer and strong culture of support, ensuring pupils thrive both in and beyond the classroom. The Sunday Times’ recognition follows another year of excellent exam performance and continued investment in teaching, wellbeing and enrichment. It also reaffirms The Perse’s position as the region’s leading independent school, and one that consistently empowers its pupils to look outward, embrace challenge and contribute positively to the wider community. Families Cambridgeshire 5
Families Education
Nurseries Listings 2026 Helping you find the right place for your little ones - our 2026 guide to some of the nurseries local to Cambridgeshire with the latest Ofsted ratings, correct at the time we went to press. ACE Day Nursery, Cambridge. www.ace-nursery-school.org. uk 01223 366355 (Ofsted Outstanding 2021) ACE Nursery School, Cambridge. www.ace-nurseryschool.org.uk 01223 357181 (Ofsted Outstanding 2022) All Saints Interchurch PreSchool, March. www.allsaints. cambs.sch.uk 01354 659000 (Ofsted EY Provision Good 2025) Blackberry House Day Nursery, Wisbech. www. blackberryhousedaynursery. co.uk 01945 589867 (Ofsted Outstanding 2024) Blackberry House Day Nursery, March. www. blackberryhousedaynursery. co.uk 01945 589867 (Ofsted Outstanding 2023) Blackberry House Day Nursery, Peterborough. www. blackberryhousedaynursery.co.uk 01945 589867 (Ofsted Good 2022)
Bright Horizons Cambridge Science Park Day Nursery and Preschool. www.brighthorizons. co.uk 0333 920 1198 (Ofsted Good 2023) Bright Horizons Ely Day Nursery and Preschool. www. brighthorizons.co.uk 0330 057 3559 (Ofsted Good 2024) Bright Horizons Fulbourn Day Nursery and Preschool, Cambridge. www.brighthorizons. co.uk 0333 305 4577 (Ofsted Outstanding 2020) Bright Horizons Wolfson Court Day Nursery and Preschool, Cambridge. www.brighthorizons. co.uk 0333 920 8005 (Ofsted Outstanding 2024) Bunnybrookes Day Nursery, Cambridge www.brighthorizons. co.uk 0330 057 1330 (Ofsted Good 2020) Busy Bees at Cambridge Westwick. www. busybeeschildcare.co.uk 01223 232400 (Ofsted Outstanding 2021) Butterfly Day Nursery, Cambridge. www. butterflydaynursery.co.uk 01223 353164 (Ofsted Good 2022)
Chestnut Nursery School, Chesterton. www.chestnutnursery.co.uk/nurseries/chesterton 01223 728390 (Ofsted Good 2025) Clarence House Day Nursery, Cambridge. www.chdn.co.uk 01223 778383 (Ofsted Good 2022) Emneth Nursery School and Children’s Centre, Wisbech. www.emneth-nur.norfolk.sch. uk 01945 582401 (Ofsted Outstanding 2024) Flutterbies Childcare, Benwick. www.childcare.co.uk 01354 677733 (Ofsted Good 2020) Harvey Road Day Nursery, Cambridge. www. harveyroaddaynursery.org.uk 01223 363860 (Ofsted Good 2025) Histon Early Years Centre, Cambridge. www.histon.cambs. sch.uk 01223 712075 (Ofsted Good 2022) Homerton Early Years Centre, Cambridge. www.homerton. cambs.sch.uk 01223 508766 (Ofsted Outstanding 2021) Ladybirds Day Nursery, Wisbech. www.daynurseries.co.uk 01945 466667 (Ofsted Good 2023)
Little Ted’s Day Nursery, Haddenham. www.daynurseries. co.uk 01353 741765 (Ofsted Good 2023) Oaks Nursery at Cambridge International School, Cambridge. cischool.co.uk/ nursery/ 01223 416938 (Ofsted Good 2019)
Patacake Day Nursery, Cambridge. www.pata-cake.co.uk 01223 411636 (Ofsted Good 2022) Perse Pelican Nursery School, Cambridge. www.perse.co.uk/ pelican 01223 403940 St. Mary’s Pre-School, Cambridge. www. stmaryscambridge.co.uk/ preschool.htm 01223 311666
The Maltings Day Nursery, Ely. www.themaltingsdaynursery. co.uk 01353 661442 (Ofsted Outstanding 2022) The Willows Day Nursery, Chatteris. www. thewillowschatteris.co.uk 01354 461232 (Ofsted Good 2022)
Wisbech Day Nursery, Wisbech. wisbechdaynursery.co.uk/ 01945 586966 Wisbech Grammar School Kindergarten. www. wisbechgrammar.com/ kindergarten 01945 583631
King’s Lynn Corn Exchange
Saturday 14 February
Sunday 15 March
kingslynncornexchange.co.uk Box Office 01553 764864
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Families Baby Best Buys 2. 3.
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Families have pulled together some of our favourite baby products, if you can’t afford to buy new there are plenty of places to source nearly new: Vinted, Ebay, Facebook marketplace and nearly new pop up sales in Cambridgeshire. 1. SnuzPod Bedside Crib 6. Bjorn Baby Carrier Mini RRP £195.95 www.snuz.co.uk RRP £88.90 2. Medala Magic InBra breast pump 7. Foldable Foam Mat RRP £229 www.johnlewis.com RRP £35 www.amazon.co.uk 3. Cuddledry handsfree towe 8. Stoke Tripp Trapp Chair RRP £34.99 www.sweetdreamers.co.uk RRP £377 4. Ewan Deluxe 9. PO.P Organic Cotton Baby Wear RRP £39.99 www.sweetdreamers.co.uk RRP £22.00 www.polarnopyret.com 5. Little Green Sheep Organic knitted blanket 10. Stoke Yoyo travel stroller RRP £299 RRP £29.95 www.thelittlegreensheep.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk
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What’s On s to place Things to do, be had go and fun to ages in for kids of all
Cambridgeshir
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Winter Snowdrop Walk
WHEN: 24th Jan-1st Apr 10.00am-4.00pm WHERE: Chippenham Park Gardens Start the year with amazing displays of stunning snowdrops. Winter doesn't have to be grey! The snowdrop walk is closely followed by daffodil season when Chippenham Park turns into a sea of yellow. Adults £10, children £3. Under 5s FREE. www.chippenhampark.co.uk
WHEN: Open daily WHERE: Little Paxton This reserve is a lovely place to enjoy nature, made up of lakes, meadows and woodland rich in wildlife. You’ll find guided, accessible trails and a friendly visitor centre. www.paxton-pits.org.uk
Cambridge Science Centre
WHEN: Term times Sat & Sun only; School holidays open daily, 9.00am – 4.00pm WHERE: Cambridge Science Park Packed with over 20 fun, handson and openended exhibits, you and your children can enjoy exploring the Centre at your own pace. Shows are held twice a day and Lab sessions run throughout the day. www. cambridgesciencecentre.org
Museum Visit
Family Days Out
WHEN: Open daily WHERE: Anglesey Abbey, Lode, Cambridge NT The perfect place for a family adventure. Tick off a few of the '50 things to do before you're 11¾' while you’re there, such as den building and making wild art. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
WHEN: Sun 18 Jan, 5.00 pm WHERE: King’s Lynn Corn Exchange An award-winning Taylor Swift tribute concert extravaganza which has taken Swiftie fans around the world by storm. Many of the much-loved hits will be featured. Tickets £30.00. www.kingslynncornexchange. co.uk
WHEN: Open daily, 10.00am – 4.00pm WHERE: Hamerton Zoo Park, Nr Sawtry Visit the wonderful animals, ride the 'K-T Express' railroad train, let off steam in the two play areas, and more. Adult £19.99; Child £15.99; Under 3s go free. www.hamertonzoopark.com
Paxton Pits Nature Reserve
Visit the Winter Garden
Taylormania
Family Fun at the Zoo
Family-Friendly Activities
WHEN: Open daily from 9.30am WHERE: Wicken Fen, Ely NT Have a perfect family day out with outdoor activities, nature discovery, bike hire, accessible woodland walks, trails, explorer bags and crafts in the visitor centre. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
WHEN: Thurs-Sat weekly, 10.00am – 4.00pm WHERE: Royston Museum There are over 2000 years of history to be discovered at Royston Museum with displays about the Romans, local industry, the Victorians, the World Wars and entertainment. www.roystonmuseum.org.uk
Taylormania
WHEN: Sun 25 Jan, 4pm WHERE: Cambridge Corn Exchange An award-winning tribute with Katy Ellis, live band and dancers delivers an authentic Taylor Swift experience featuring hits like Shake It Off, Blank Space, Love Story and more for Swifties. Tickets £30.00+ www.cornex.co.uk
Flowers and Friendship Bracelets
WHEN: Sun 1 Feb, 2.00pm WHERE: Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds Experience the ultimate pop concert as Flowers and Friendship Bracelets brings chart-topping hits, dazzling dance routines and nonstop excitement, celebrating today’s hottest stars in an unforgettable, family-friendly pop party. Tickets £26.50. www.theatreroyal.org
Whipple Highlights Tour WHEN: Open daily until Tues 31 March WHERE: Cambridge University Botanic Garden This Garden dazzles visitors all winter with evolving colour, vibrant stems and striking trees. First planted in 1979, it offers an immersive showcase of winter planting in a beautiful setting. www.museums.cam.ac.uk
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Family Days Out
WHEN: Open daily WHERE: Wimpole Estate, Royston NT Wimpole Estate offers family fun for all: explore stunning architecture, meet farm animals, and enjoy outdoor adventures in any weather. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
WHEN: Sat 17 Jan, Fri 23 Jan & Sat 21 Feb WHERE: Whipple Museum of the History of Science, Cambridge Explore the Museum through ten intriguing objects, from curious instruments to surprising collections. Reveal fascinating scientific stories, quirky questions and connections to some of Cambridge’s most famous names. FREE. www.whipplemuseum.cam.ac.uk familiesonline.co.uk
Families What's on Thomas Branch Line Weekend WHEN: 14-15 Feb WHERE: Nene Valley Railway, Peterborough Travel with Thomas along his scenic countryside branch line to Yarwell, through Wansford Tunnel, enjoying attractions across the railway for a perfect family day out. Tickets £7. nvr.org.uk
Tap Factory
WHEN: Weds 11 Feb, 7.30pm WHERE: King’s Lynn Corn Exchange An explosive, high-octane show returning to the UK, featuring phenomenal performers who fuse dance, acrobatics, percussion and comedy in a thrilling, high-energy, family-friendly spectacle. Tickets £28.00+. Age 5+. www.cornex.co.uk
Lambing Live 2026
WHEN: 14 Feb - 1 May (open Thurs – Sun, 10am – 5pm) WHERE: Church Farm, Stow Bardolph At Church Farm, visitors can meet and feed rescued lambs needing care. Watch newborns in the sheep maternity ward or Nursery and learn about their stories and farm life. www.churchfarmstowbardolph. co.uk
Tales From Acorn Wood WHEN: Tues 17 - Wed 18 Feb WHERE: Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Tales from Acorn Wood comes alive on stage with puppetry, songs and lift-theflap fun, inviting children to join favourite characters in a magical theatrical adventure. Tickets £14.50 - £16.50. Age Guidance: 1+. www.theatreroyal.org
Top Secret – The Magic of Science
WHEN: Sat 14 Feb, 2.00pm WHERE: King’s Lynn Corn Exchange A show which fuses the mystery of magic with the wonders of science. A non-stop action packed interactive magical science show with experiments which will amaze and capture the imagination. Tickets £14.00+. www.kingslynncornexchange. co.uk
Wildlife Week
WHEN: 14 - 22 Feb WHERE: Skylark Garden Centre, March, Cambridgeshire Join the Wildlife Trust for a nature walk through Skylark’s woodlands, plus enjoy scavenger hunts, clay animals, nature collages, bird feeders, wooden cookie decorating, and other fun, nature-themed activities. £19.99 per child, accompanying adults go free. www.skylark-events.co.uk
Tap Factory
WHEN: Tues 24 Feb, 7.30pm WHERE: Cambridge Corn Exchange Tap Factory returns to the UK with eight phenomenal performers blending dance, acrobatics, percussion and comedy in a highenergy, family-friendly spectacle guaranteed to thrill, entertain and get everyone’s toes tapping. Tickets £32.00+ www.cornex.co.uk
Mucky Pups
WHEN: Fri 27 Feb, 10.30am – 12.00pm WHERE: Wicken Fen, Ely NT Messy outdoor adventures for pre-schoolers, featuring seasonal activities, crafts and stories. Perfect for curious young explorers, with an accompanying adult. £7 per child. Age 2 – 5 years. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Twilight at the Museums
WHEN: 16-21 February 2026 WHERE: Cambridge Museums Explore Cambridge museums after hours this February half term. Museums across the city will be opening their doors and turning the lights down low for a fun-filled evening of torch lit trails, handson activities, crafts, storytelling, and more. See which venues are taking part below. FREE www.museums.cam.ac.uk/ theme/twilight
The Dinosaur that Pooped
WHEN: Sun 22 Feb, 12.00pm & 3.30pm WHERE: King’s Lynn Corn Exchange Join Danny and Dino on their quest for the last two tickets to see their favourite rock band. Will they succeed? The whole family will have a poopy good time at this new story for stage. Tickets £17.00+. www.kingslynncornexchange. co.uk
Horrible Histories The Concert
WHEN: Sun 1 March WHERE: Cambridge Corn Exchange Stars from the BAFTA Awardwinning CBBC series appear live (and dead!) on stage for the first time! If you’ve enjoyed watching royal rogues and deadly divas on TV, you will love this hilariously horrible quest for Shakespeare to create the greatest show on earth! Tickets £23.00+ www.cornex.co.uk
©My Linh Le
Choc full of science
WHEN: 14th – 20th February 9.00am – 4.00pm WHERE: Cambridge Science Park How does a cocoa bean become a bar of chocolate? What happens when we melt, mix, roast or temper? Join Cambridge Science centre this half term for a tasty, hands-on journey to uncover the science behind one of our most-loved sweet treats. www.cambridgesciencecentre.org familiesonline.co.uk
Please mention Families Cambridgeshire Magazine when booking events Families Cambridgeshire 9
Sunday 22 February kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
Coleridge
Chesterton
Cambourne
Thursday - Sunday After school and weekends
Wednesday After school
Wednesday and Saturday After school and weekend
CLASSES FOR 4 - 11 YEAR OLDS
Looking for an exciting and unique birthday party? Our Cambridge climbing parties are perfect for active fun! sportscentre.perse.co.uk/birthday-parties/
Families Feature
SUPPORT YOUR CHILD WITH SWIMMING According to Swim England, nearly two thirds of parents and guardians of children ages 7 to 11 haven’t been swimming with their children in more than a month. They’re missing out: regular family swims can be enjoyed whatever the weather and help children develop their swimming ability more quickly. If you’ve booked your child in for swimming lessons, here’s how Swim England recommends supporting them: LESSONS ARE FUN. Learning how to swim should be fun, so check with the lesson provider that games and activities are regularly included within their programme of teaching. TIMING IS KEY. Book lessons for a time that is easy to fit around your family commitments. Pay attention. If you are poolside during lessons, be ready to give your child a wave and lots of encouragement. Putting away your mobile will help your child understand that these lessons are important. CELEBRATE THEIR SWIMMING MILESTONES. Rewarding children keeps them motivated to improve in their lessons. Swim England’s Learn to Swim Awards and app give children regular celebrations of their swimming milestones. REGULAR REPORTS. Parents should expect regular updates either through reports or verbal feedback. If your child is struggling in lessons, talk to the swimming teacher and ask what you can do to help encourage them. If
SKILLS TO LAST A LIFETIME Give your family essential skills and confidence in and around water. Save a spot with Swimbies for babies and toddlers, Better Swim School for kids or swimming lessons for adults.
lessons before they are competent swimmers and have achieved Swim England’s minimum water competency standards.
When is my child water competent?
they haven’t started swimming lessons yet, visit the pool before lessons to get your child used to the environment. DON’T END LESSONS TOO EARLY. Water competency is often misinterpreted by parents and guardians as their child being able to jump into a swimming pool and being able to put their face in the water. The reality is very different. Learning to jump into a swimming pool is an important safety skill that is often achieved in the early stages of their learning to swim journey. It is a skill which mimics the motion of falling into water which teaches swimmers to get themselves safely to the side without panicking. However, there are many other water safety and survival skills that a child needs to learn before they are safe in water, such as floating and treading water. So don’t be tempted to stop your child’s
FOR ALL AGES
Swim England’s minimum water competency standards give parents and guardians a clear set of skills that children should achieve before a child stops swimming lessons. The four competencies are: • Perform a star float for at least sixty seconds • Tread water for at least thirty seconds • Have experience of swimming in clothing • Swim at least one hundred metres with ease and without stopping Research in September 2021 highlighted that more than three million 7 to 11 year old children were not achieving this standard, with just four percent of the age group being classed as ‘water competent.’ Swim England strongly recommends that where possible, parents and carers keep children in swimming lessons until they have completed Learn to Swim Stages 1 to 7 as a minimum. By this point children will have achieved all four of the minimum standards for water competency and will be much safer if they get into trouble than a child who hasn’t demonstrated these skills. See more on swimming stages at www.bit. ly/SwimPathway and for further swimming information, visit www.swimming.org
KIDS SWIM FREE OUTSIDE OF LESSONS
Better Swim School pupils enjoy free Swim For All sessions outside of regular lessons for extra practice and fun. Speak to a member of staff or scan the QR code to find out more.
Swimming Lessons with Better
Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no. XR43398.
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Families Cambridgeshire 11
Families Advertorial
Cambridge Science Centre - A world of awe-inspiring moments Hands-on STEM experiences that spark curiosity and build confidence in every child. Cambridge Science Centre is a place where children can explore scientific ideas at their own pace. With more than 20 interactive exhibits, young people can experiment, test theories and make connections that help them understand how the world works. Our live demonstrations bring science to life, guided by our talented Science Communicators. Every visit offers moments of genuine discovery and wonder. Questions are encouraged, science feels inclusive and everyone can learn together.
WHAT’S NEW FOR 2026
REIMAGINED EXHIBITS We’re refreshing our exhibition floor for 2026, introducing new STEM experiences inspired by the ideas and questions children bring to the Centre. From emerging technologies to everyday engineering, these displays offer exciting opportunities to explore how science shapes our lives and the world around us. Every holiday explores a new theme. EXPLORING THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT A major highlight for 2026 will be our new Built Environment programme, which will offer hands-on experiences that invite children to explore how homes, streets and cities are imagined and constructed. These activities help young people understand not only how the world around them is built, but also how
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their own creativity and choices can shape it. Budding engineers, planners and designers will love experimenting with structures and discovering the science behind the spaces we use every day. FEBRUARY HALF TERM: CHOC FULL OF SCIENCE This February, join us for Choc Full of Science, a delicious dive into the world of culinary chemistry. How does a cocoa bean become a bar of chocolate? What happens when we melt, mix, roast or temper? Families can take part in this tasty, hands-on journey to uncover the science behind one of our most-loved sweet treats. Expect fun, mess and plenty of chocolatey surprises. FAMILY WEEKENDS NOW OPEN FROM 9AM Our Family Weekend sessions are perfect for children aged 4–12 and their grown-ups. From
2026, we’ll open from 9am, giving families even more time to explore, experiment and learn together. STEMTOTS SCIENCE FOR LITTLE LEARNERS Our much-loved STEMtots sessions introduce under-5s to science through storytelling, sensory play and simple experiments. These gentle, playful sessions build confidence, support early development and help little ones (and their grown-ups!) discover the joy of learning together. STEMtots runs every Friday morning during term time. SCHOOL VISITS TO OUR CENTRES Schools from Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 3 are invited to visit our dedicated learning spaces in Cambridge and Wisbech. Each visit includes curriculum-linked workshops and facilitated time with our hands-on exhibits, one of the most exciting ways to bring science to life beyond the classroom. Our Wisbech centre, located in the Horsefair Shopping Centre, is open year-round, three days a week from January 2026 (Thursday, Friday and Saturday). We’d love pupils and families to encourage their schools to book a trip to either of our venues. FIND OUT MORE Visit our website for booking details, programme updates and session times for 2026.
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Families Education
The ideal window for STEM learning When children first step into school, they bring with them an unstoppable stream of curiosity. Why is the sky blue? How do birds fly? What happens if I mix these paints? For parents and teachers, it can feel relentless. Yet within those questions lies something essential. The years between ages 5 and 9 are when children form the attitudes that shape how they see the world, how they see themselves as learners and how they will approach science and maths for the rest of their lives. Why does this matter so much? Because science and maths are not simply school subjects. They are life skills. Science teaches us to question, to seek evidence and to change our minds when evidence changes. Maths teaches us to see patterns, to plan and to reason logically. UNESCO [1] and the OECD [2] have long argued that building scientific literacy early is essential for the future. The children of today will face challenges we can only guess at: climate change, new technologies and social change. A generation confident in science and maths will be better equipped to meet those challenges. It is about creating citizens who can think critically, solve problems and adapt. The habits of mind built between ages 5 and 9 will carry into adulthood.
The window of curiosity
The psychologist Jean Piaget [3] described children ages 5 to 9 as moving from imaginative thinking into logical thinking. At age 5, children may still believe the moon is following them home. By age 9, they begin to understand orbits, shadows and gravity. This shift is not just about facts. It is about the development of a way of thinking, a move from magic to mechanism, while still holding onto imagination. Children between ages 5 and 9 are at their most curious and least self-conscious. They ask questions without worrying about being wrong. They explore without fear of failure. This is why researchers at King’s College London [4] and the Institute of Education point out that attitudes to science and maths often solidify before age 10. By the end of primary school, many children have already decided whether they are ‘good at’ or ‘bad at’ these subjects. This decision is rarely based on ability. It is based on confidence and on how those around them respond to their questions.
Confidence is built early
Imagine a child who builds a tower of blocks. It falls. They try again. It falls again. They laugh, rebuild and eventually succeed. They have just practised the essence of scientific thinking: test, fail, try again, succeed. If an adult scolds or rushes them, they learn frustration. If an familiesonline.co.uk
adult celebrates their persistence, they learn resilience. The National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) [5] has shown through multiple studies that early exposure to positive experiences in science and maths builds lasting confidence. The opposite is also true. A child who hears parents say: ‘I was never good at maths,’ or ‘Science is too hard,’ absorbs that belief. By age 7, those beliefs can become fixed. Yet science is creative and maths rewards persistence. Anyone can enjoy these subjects if given space to play, explore and make mistakes. Confidence is not about getting the right answer every time. It is about believing that problems can be solved, that experiments are worth trying and that effort is valuable. Between ages 5 and 9, mistakes should be celebrated. A wrong answer is not a failure. It is a step towards understanding. When children see adults laugh at a failed
By Matt Newnham
experiment or cheer at a messy attempt, they learn that learning is about the journey, not just the result.
What can parents do?
The most powerful thing parents can do is show interest. A child who sees their parent curious and open to learning learns that curiosity is valuable. EXPLORE QUESTIONS TOGETHER. Instead of rushing to answer, ask: ‘What do you think?’ USE DAILY LIFE. Cooking, shopping, gardening and travelling all contain maths and science. READ STORIES WITH STEM THEMES. Adventure tales can carry scientific concepts in fun ways. MODEL POSITIVE TALK. Replace ‘I can’t do maths’ with ‘Let’s work it out together.’ In the golden window when children decide whether they are explorers or avoiders, adults hold the power to guide them towards curiosity, confidence and joy. Matt Newnham is an author and writer with decades of business experience. Inspired by his career in IT, he created Space Ranger Fred to make learning fun and accessible for children. For more information, visit www. spacerangerfred.com www.unesco.org/en/articles/how-science-can-helpcreate-sustainable-world [2] www.oecd.org/en/publications/pisa-2015-resultsvolume-i_9789264266490-en.html [3] www.bxscience.edu/ourpages/ auto/2014/11/16/50007779/Piaget%20When%20 Thinking%20Begins10272012_0000.pdf [4] kclpure.kcl.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/ portal/64130800/10_Facts_and_Fictions.pdf [5] ed.sc. gov/instruction/early-learning-and-literacy/earlylearning/nsta-position-statement-early-childhoodscience-education/ [1]
Families Cambridgeshire 13
Families Education
The Importance of Drama
By Alexa Brant
When choosing an after-school club or activity in which to enrol your child, it may be worth considering drama and the performing arts if you haven’t done so before. Some children seem to be natural performers, but, if you have a shy child, then the idea of sending them to drama lessons may seem absurd. However, joining a drama class doesn’t necessarily mean your child will be pushed onto a stage and expected to sing and dance and there are some significant benefits. ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE EMPATHY A range of research studies have found that Understanding characters, roles and the students who participate in the Arts don’t sub-text of plays and musicals allows students just do better in school, they perform better to relate better to different situations, in areas that contribute to success outside backgrounds, and cultures they encounter the classroom. Nor only do children active in real life. It encourages them to show in the Arts demonstrate higher academic compassion and tolerance for others. CO-OPERATION performance and test results, they are also An effective drama programme embraces more likely to participate in community service both extroverted and introverted children. and be elected to class office. SELF-CONFIDENCE Combining the creative ideas and the abilities Aspects of performing arts, especially of all participants is required for the best improvisation, helps children to understand outcomes. This requires all those taking part to how to appraise situations, think outside engage in discussions, feedback, rehearsing, the box and be more confident going into and performance. CONCENTRATION unfamiliar situations. Students learn to trust Playing, practicing, and performing develops their ideas and abilities. Confidence gained the abilities and skills necessary for children from learning performing arts skills applies to to be able to focus their minds, bodies and school, career and life. IMAGINATION voices. COMMUNICATION SKILLS Being creative and learning to make creative Performing arts improves vocal projection, choices helps students to be better at thinking articulation, tone of speech and expression. of new ideas, allowing them to view the world Importantly, it also develops listening and around them in new ways. Remember Einstein said, “Imagination is more important 22:59 than Page 1observation skills. These skills will benefit a cambridge_Layout 1 29/08/2020 young person throughout their life. knowledge.”
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FUN Drama delivers elements of play, humour, and laughter to those taking part – it improves motivation and reduces stress. EMOTIONAL OUTLET Acting and drama games allow students to express a range of emotions and encourages them to understand and deal with similar feelings they may be experiencing. Aggression and tension can be released in a safe, controlled environment – often allowing for a period of reflection afterwards. MEMORY Rehearsing and performing lines and movements will improve your child’s memory. Memory requires exercise, just like a muscle! There are plenty of performing arts companies in Cambridgeshire including www.stagecoach.co.uk/cambridge in Coleridge, Chesterton and Cambourne, www.razzamataz.co.uk in Impington village college, www.Perform.org.uk in Central Cambridge and Newnham and www.papa. perse.co.uk in The Perse School.
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n O s ’ t a h W
gthis sprin o d o t s g Thin usic & drama, m r ething fo m o s t r o p s in everyone
eshire g d i r b m a C
Families Clubs & Classes STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS
WHEN: Term time: Wednesdays - Fridays after school, and weekends WHERE: Coleridge Campus & Cambourne Village College Stagecoach provides quality parttime training in the performing arts for children aged 4 – 18 years. Their aim is to nurture and develop young potential through singing, acting and dance classes, as well as being educational and fun. www.stagecoach.co.uk/cambridge
Junior Swim & Climbing Lessons Better Swimming Lessons WHERE: The Hive, Ely Whether you’re looking for fun and engaging swimming classes for your kids or want to learn the swimming basics yourself, The Hive have got a class for you! They cater for all ages and levels of ability, from baby and parent lessons to women’s only classes and more. www.better.org.uk
Girlguiding and Scouts
WHEN: Ongoing WHERE: Locations around Cambridgeshire The Girlguiding and Scouts organisations offer a safe space in which your child can make friends and learn many new skills. Age 4 to adult. www. girlguiding-anglia.org.uk, www. cambridgeshirescouts.org.uk
WHERE: The Perse Sports Centre, Cambridge Swim England’s Learn to Swim lessons, Stages 1 – 10, help to develop competent swimmers through enjoyment. NICAS Climbing courses provide a safe, fun introduction to climbing indoors, helping learners develop climbing skills and build confidence. Ages 4-17 years. sportscentre.perse.co.uk
The Perse Academy of Performing Arts (PAPA)
WHEN: Saturdays WHERE: The Perse School, Cambridge PAPA offers outstanding performing arts training for Reception to Year 13, nurturing creativity, confidence and skills through acting, singing, dance and musical theatre, with showcases for all performers to inspire. papa.perse.co.uk/
Razzamataz Cambridge
WHEN: Saturdays WHERE: Impington Village College, Cambridge Razzamataz Cambridge - where creativity, confidence, and community thrive! The expert team delivers inspiring dance, singing, and acting training, blending commercial and musicaltheatre styles. Students gain life skills, resilience, communication, teamwork, and lasting friendships in a fun, supportive environment. www.razzamataz.co.uk
HALF TERM HOLIDAY CAMPS Cambridge United's Soccer School
WHEN: Every school holiday, 9.00am – 4.00pm WHERE: Chesterton, Coleridge, Comberton and Swavesey Soccer camp engages players in activities including football quizzes, football World 11 teams and more! Skill of the Day enhances football development. Cost £25 a day Age 5 – 12 years. www.cambridgeunited.com/ soccer-schools
Holiday Activities at The Hive
The Outdoors Project Weekend Clubs
WHEN: Saturdays WHERE: Royston Do you need childcare on Saturdays? Book your child in for outdoor games and nature-based craft. Fun and exercise in the fresh air! Children of Y1 – Y6 welcome. www.theoutdoorsproject.co.uk
WHEN: School holidays WHERE: Ely When school holidays are underway, The Hive offers a wide range of activities to keep kids busy and active. There is lots to choose between, from learning new skills to having fun with family and friends, including Swim School courses, swimming sessions, Aqua Splash and Junior Gym. www.better.org.uk
PERFORM: DANCE, DRAMA & SINGING CLASSES
WHEN: Weekly WHERE: Cambridge, Chesterton & Newnham Try a confidence-boosting Perform class! This spring, help your child build confidence, creativity and social skills with Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes for ages 4-7 and 7-12. Children have the chance to shine in a magical endof-term performance: Midnight in the Toyshop for ages 4-7 and Outlaw for ages 7-12. Every child is welcome to try a free class. To book a place visit: www.perform.org.uk/try
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Perform: Hansel & Gretel Holiday Course
WHEN: Mon 16 - Wed 18 Feb, 10.00am – 3.00pm WHERE: Newnham Croft Primary School Join Hansel and Gretel this February half-term for three days of drama, dancing and singing. Journeying into the enchanted forest, the children will make friends with the woodland creatures and discover the delicious Gingerbread House along the way. But will they manage to outwit the evil Wicked Witch and escape her clutches? Age 4 - 10. www.perform.org.uk/hanselandgretel Families Cambridgeshire 15
CLASSES FOR 4 - 11 YEAR OLDS Coleridge
Chesterton
Cambourne
Thursday - Sunday After school and weekends
Wednesday After school
Wednesday and Saturday After school and weekend
N.B two week trials must be the first two consecutive weeks of term