England’s largest festival of history and culture returns from 12th to 21st September with thousands of free events and experiences.
This year the festival will focus on England’s diverse architectural heritage. From historic houses to factories, museums, music halls and formal gardens –a diverse range of places and communities across the country will again host hundreds of free events. There will be plenty of free interactive activities for children including dressing up, crafts, woodland walks and railway rides, all based around this year’s theme, Creativity Unwrapped, sharing England’s colourful history of creativity. The festival will celebrate the experts and enthusiastic amateurs whose passions and skills add something special to our daily lives.
See our What’s On guide from page 24 for local events. New events will be added to the festival’s online directory each day. < heritageopendays.org.uk
Step into the spotlight for Rennie Grove charity
Sequins at the ready – Strictly Come Hospice is back, promising glitz, glamour and plenty of local sparkle! Rennie Grove Peace is calling on 24 brave contestants to swap their everyday shoes for dancing heels in this muchloved community fundraiser.
Each dancer will enjoy ten weeks of free tuition from November with professional partners before dazzling family and friends at a glittering grand finale at Watesmeet Theatre, Rickmansworth in January. One winning pair will lift the coveted Strictly Come Hospice trophy!
Last year’s event raised an incredible £50,000, with many contestants taking part in memory of loved ones. No experience is needed, just enthusiasm and a fundraising pledge of £800. Registration is £30. To join in the fun, visit: < renniegrovepeace.org/strictly
Parents missing out on childcare savings
A consumer expert has warned that around 800,000 UK parents are missing out on valuable childcare savings worth up to £2,000 a year. Martin Lewis, founder of MoneySavingExpert, explained that many families are unaware they qualify for the government’s ‘Tax-Free Childcare’ scheme. The initiative offers a 20 percent reimbursement on childcare costs, up to £500 per quarter, for working parents earning at least £850 a month each and less than £100,000 each, with children under 12 (or under 16 if disabled). Lewis criticised the scheme’s name as misleading and is lobbying for it to be renamed ‘Working Families Childcare Top-Up.’ He also highlighted that working parents on Universal Credit can claim up to 85 percent of childcare costs, though payments are made in arrears. More info: < gov.uk/tax-free-childcare
• Family Learning
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• Distance Learning
• English, Maths & Digital Skills
Jamie Oliver’s mission to transform dyslexia
Jamie Oliver, long known for his school dinner reforms, is now on a mission to overhaul dyslexia support in UK schools. Drawing on his own experience with dyslexia, Oliver is partnering with MPs, educators and groups such as the British Dyslexia Association to push for urgent changes.
His campaign centres on three key reforms: mandatory dyslexia screening for all primary school children, better teacher training to recognise and support dyslexic students and wider use of assistive technology like reading pens and audiobooks.
Oliver argues these steps would ensure early intervention, boost pupil confidence and allow teaching to play to each child’s strengths. While his proposals have been praised by advocacy groups, challenges remain - particularly funding, teacher workload and slow policy change. Still, Oliver’s campaign could benefit all pupils by making classrooms more inclusive and adaptable and by improving literacy support for everyone, not just those with a diagnosis.
More info at: < bdadyslexia.org.uk
The Raspberry Pi Foundation, the UK’s leading digital skills charity, is calling for a free Code Club in every UK school and library, aiming to equip young people with essential digital skills for a future shaped by AI. An Opinium survey found 60% of parents see coding as important, while over 70% say their child isn’t taught coding regularly at school.
Already supporting 2,000 free Code Clubs, the Foundation helps kids learn to code and build confidence, teamwork, and resilience. Free training and resources make it easy for anyone, regardless of experience, to start a club.
Teachers like Janine Kirk have seen Code Clubs open doors for all students to be creative and collaborative, breaking down stereotypes about who can code. The Foundation’s position is clear: every child should learn to code to shape an inclusive digital world. Code Club has reached 2 million children worldwide, with a goal of 10 million by 2035.
More info: < codeclub.org
Visit the Family Learning Festival
The Family Learning Festival which runs from 4th October to 2nd November is an annual celebration of the joy of learning together as a family.
This festival encourages families to explore, discover and learn new things through a wide range of educational activities and experiences. It emphasises the importance of family bonding through shared learning and provides opportunities for families to engage in creative and enriching activities. Organisations across the UK, including schools, libraries, museums, children centres and galleries will be staging a range of FREE and low cost creative family learning events, workshops that your family can participate in. Find a local Family Learning Festival event by visiting < familylearningfestival.com and using the interactive map.
AMERSHAM 07887 500788 stagecoach.co.uk/amersham HIGH WYCOMBE 01494533202 stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe
AYLESBURY 01525 790795 stagecoach.co.uk/aylesbury
HENLEY AND MARLOW 07539 753718 stagecoach.co.uk/henleyandmarlow
Days Out R ev i e w s
Wonderlab
Wonderlab at The Science Museum in London was a truly an enthralling experience, which definitely made our day! The kids did enjoy looking around the Science Museum, but they started to get quite antsy with so much reading. Our kids are very active and whilst the free Museum exhibits held their interest for an hour or so, they really wanted to be excited and ‘wowed’. The interactive, hands-on experiences in Wonderlab had them racing from one area to another. There were several demonstrations that we just had to see, including crazy potions and hair stiffening electricity.
Chorleywood Common
We spent a lovely morning at Chorleywood Common, enjoying the vast woods and fields that were on offer. The kids loved playing by the pond and having a little bit of freedom. They could still be clearly in sight but far enough away to have their ‘kid chats’, do dance and gymnastics and play football without feeling like they had an audience.
The memory tree was a lovely stop and one to bug hunt around, as were the wooden climbing structures that were close to the clearing. The
Hollywood Bowl
By Claire Lockie Williams
The boys loved the friction slides, chemistry bar experiments, the pulley chairs and the dry ice machine which periodically dropped in tiny dry ice shards which whizzed around a bowl. We spent close to four hours in there, with all three boys begging to come back soon and see more science. For kids who crave excitement, crazy experiments and love science, it’s a paradise for sure.
Notes: Pre-book online to avoid disappointment. We booked a family ticket the week prior for both Wonderlab and timed Museum entry so we wouldn’t have to queue or miss out. Other interactive exhibits and lockers are available at a cost in the Museum.
Location: London, SW7 2DD.
kids spent a time exploring those and challenging each other to jump or climb. There were lovely areas to lay down a blanket and enjoy lunch as well. Just one downside was the lack of toilets nearby. The cafe has a toilet but understandably reserved for customers and only when it’s open, and the station was too far away to keep walking back to. Aside from that, it was a lovely day out in nature.
Notes: The cafe has lovely biscuits and the only toilets close by, so time visits accordingly or be prepared to go wild!
Location: Chorleywood, WD3 5LN.
We really enjoyed this family bowling trip at Eden Shopping Centre in High Wycombe, and combined it with an earlier Clip n Climb experience. Case loved being in charge of the ‘big screen’, typing in our names and instructing which order we would bowl in. Plus, he managed to ‘selfie’ himself as a screen saver so found the whole thing hilarious.
We had drinks ordered to our alley and enjoyed an exciting game of adult’s vs kids, with the kids nearly winning! There
Gadebridge Park
We do love Gadebridge Park in Hemel Hempstead, and it’s been well over a year since we last had a visit. It wasn’t the best day – not too warm and raining at the end! That didn’t stop us though given how much there was to explore. The kids loved the splash park fountains; they were quiet and no booking was needed. As we adults sipped on hot drinks, the kids flitted around the splash pool aiming to soak each other and splash as
were plenty of balls, some even small enough for our 5-year-old as well as a ramp for him to angle and roll his ball.
We kept the barriers up and cheered some strikes and half strikes, watching as animations hit the screens and pins were pointed out. It was great fun, though the kids were quickly ushered out given the allure of the arcade so close. Admittedly, we did lose a few coins in them!
much as possible. Predictably the boys used toes and feet to angle the water towards each other and get as wet as possible.
When it got quite cool the kids opted for the playground; first trying out the gym, then the bucket swing and finally moving across the frames to try out the different climbing challenges. We finished off in the very cool skate park, managing to grab a quick scoot with friends before the rain came hammering down. I’ve promised a return soon as this is one park that everyone enjoys.
Q&A with Andy Day
With the summer behind us and the nights starting to draw in, there’s never been a better time to cosy up with a good book and this issue’s recommendation is Andy Day’s Dino Dad series, the perfect read to enjoy with 4-8 year olds. Rachel Bailey talks to the CBeebies legend about all things dinosaur, toilet humour and whether or not he really does wear odd socks.
When my children were young, we were big fans of Andy’s Adventures on CBeebies and along with PE with Joe, your Wild Workouts were a lockdown favourite. The step from children’s TV presenter to children’s author is not a stretch, but was it just the next obvious step in your career path, or are you passionate about fostering a love of reading from an early age?
I’ve always wanted to explore children’s writing, having been in the world of kids’ TV for nearly 20 years. And now that I have my own kids as well, it felt like the right time. On top of that, fostering a love of reading in children is something extremely close to my heart. Storytelling brings such joy to children: there really is no greater gift you can give a child than a book. It’s something that I’m really passionate about – I really enjoyed being an ambassador for Bookshop.org’s 2025 ‘Read it Forward’ campaign early this summer, which aimed to inspire a love of reading in the next generation.
The main character in your books shares the same name as your daughter, Ruby. Did your books start out as stories you made up for your own children and that you wanted to read as a child?
My kids most definitely inspired me to write the Dino Dad series. When I had my kids, it sparked my love for reading again, my love for creating worlds and using your imagination, and reminded me what a large role books played for me as a child. Writing about dinosaurs seemed natural because of the work I’ve done surrounding
dinosaurs and also because of my love for them, so that came to me first. I then got the idea to include my kids in the book in a way, by using their names, so they would be able to relate to it. I thought it would be cool for them to see themselves in the books. It also gives me an outlet to explore my family’s dynamics in a fun way!
There are a few acronyms in your books that I’m sure will appeal to kids. How important is humour in a children’s book?
Yes, I always have to have a toilet related joke in all the books – I know it’s not everyone’s taste, but I love it and I know the kids will find it funny too! I think humour is very important in a children’s book because it helps to keep them engaged. It also just means they will have a better time reading it, which is the most important thing to me – I want children to really have fun reading my books, so I try to make them as exciting and as funny as possible. Reading for pleasure is what it is all about!
Everyone loves a dinosaur, but you introduce lesser-known ones in the books. Are you aiming to educate as well as entertain? Why do you think dinosaurs continue to hold so much appeal?
Absolutely. The thing with dinosaurs is that there is always new science being discovered about them and their time on our planet, so there will always be new things to learn. It’s like an ongoing adventure. I want to make learning as much fun as possible for the kids who read my books and I want to share
my love for dinosaurs with them, as there are so many exciting things to learn about them! I’ve said it before, but I think a big part of the appeal of dinosaurs is that they were actually real. They aren’t mythical creatures in the sense that say unicorns or dragons are. They hold a similar sort of distance but at the same time, seem more familiar, because they were actual, lizard-like creatures that roamed the same planet that we now inhabit. I also think that media surrounding dinosaurs over the years has leaned into the sort of ‘characters’ surrounding different types of dinosaurs in a way that people find interesting. For example, the T-Rex as the big bad guy. Kids especially like characters like that.
When you’re not pretending to be dinosaurs, what’s your favourite way to spend time with your family?
Family is so important to me and I make it a priority to spend as much time with them as possible. My wife and I love to take the kids on adventures and we try to turn every outing into an adventure, no matter where we go – it might be the local park, or it might be a day out further afield. And of course, we love a good film, or a day filled with playing games or seeing friends. Just spending quality time together in any way we can really!
Do you really wear odd socks?
Yes, I always wear oddsocks! My favourite pair being the Doc Brown and Marty McFly from Back to the Future oddsocks – they are classics, never take them off (apart from when they need a wash of course!)
Building early literacy skills through play
By Sophie David
With early education reform continuing to evolve in the UK, there’s increasing focus on how children learn, not just what they learn. It’s essential to remember that play is not a distraction from learning, it IS learning.
Children make sense of the world, build language and develop communication through rich, hands-on, joyful experiences. Whether it’s splashing in puddles, baking biscuits or chatting before bed, these real-life experiences are the true foundations of literacy. They spark curiosity, support social and emotional development and help children build the confidence to express themselves.
Confidence before Letters
Before children can read or write, they need to feel confident in their thoughts, their voices and their ability to make sense of what they see and hear. Literacy begins long before the first book is opened or pencil is held, it starts with expression and connection. When a child feels that their ideas matter and someone is listening, they become more motivated to communicate.
That’s where play shines. Whether they’re going on a ‘sound hunt’ through the house, forming letters in flour or retelling a favourite story with puppets, children naturally explore language through creative play. These playful moments lay the groundwork for phonemic awareness, vocabulary growth and narrative understanding, essential components of early literacy.
From Screens to Scenes
In today’s world, screens are a reality for most families. However, passive screen time can limit children’s opportunities to engage in back-and-forth conversation, imaginative play and independent thinking. The goal isn’t to ban screens entirely but to find a healthy balance.
Real-world, interactive experiences offer far richer learning. A trip to the park, helping to write a shopping list or building a cardboard post office provides children with
Five easy ways to support literacy at home
Go on a daily sound scavenger hunt to explore phonics. Read the same book in silly voices to build expression and intonation.
Bake together talk through steps and write a menu or shopping list to show how we use reading and writing. Form letters with playdough or sand to strengthen fine motor skills for handwriting.
Sing nursery rhymes and invent new verse; this boosts phonological awareness and future reading success.
valuable vocabulary, opportunities to problem-solve and space to imagine. These everyday experiences are filled with chances to use language with purpose, something even the best-designed app can’t fully replicate.
Conversations that Count
One of the most powerful tools in developing early literacy is something every parent has: conversation. Talking with your child throughout the day helps develop both expressive (what they say) and receptive (what they understand) language. The more words and ideas children are exposed to, the more prepared they’ll be for future reading and writing.
These conversations don’t have to be elaborate. Describe what you’re doing as you cook. Ask your child to name objects as you tidy up. Tell stories about your day while on a walk. Encourage your child to share their thoughts, ask questions and invent stories. These interactions build vocabulary, deepen comprehension and foster a love for language.
Back to Basics
Supporting your child’s literacy development isn’t about flashcards, early readers or academic pressure. It’s about tuning into their natural curiosity and providing rich play and connection opportunities. When children are given time and space to explore the world, guided by a caring adult, they become confident, capable learners. As the EYFS framework continues to develop, let’s stay focused on what truly matters: play-based, relationship-rich learning. It’s in the pretend tea parties and the muddy outdoor adventures that real literacy begins.
Sophie David is the author of Read, Write, Play: 100 Easy Ways to Make Phonics Fun for Children Aged 3-7. Available in hardback (£22, Robinson).
Creating a language-rich home
Keep books within easy reach to encourage exploration. Label toy boxes with pictures and words to support natural word recognition.
Talk through daily routines to build vocabulary and sentence structure.
Ask open-ended questions like: ‘What happened in your game today?’ to inspire storytelling.
Use everyday tasks like setting the table to explore colours, shapes and actions.
By Vicky Collins
Back to School, Back to Reality Survival Hacks
Let’s be honest: the phrase ’back to school’ conjures up two emotions – relief and dread. On one hand, you can finally drink a cup of tea without someone screaming for you (for the thousandth time); on the other, you’re facing a new term full of homework battles, forgotten dressing-up days and mysteriously vanishing uniform.
As a mum of four and an educator who works with families every day, I see the best and worst of September. It’s a month fuelled by good intentions which are too easily derailed. Here are the hacks, habits, and hard-won truths I’ve used over the years. Some are practical, some emotional – all designed to help your family survive (and hopefully thrive) as you launch into ‘back to school.’
Mornings: Make Decisions the Night Before
Mornings are when executive functioning collapses. You’re tired, they’re tired, and no one knows where the library book is. The overwhelm can arrive fast and fierce. Get ready the night before, having a grab and go culture in the morning just works better.
Eat breakfast first – better the PJs take the spills than the uniform.
Lay out uniform (or pile it on the floor), pack bags, and check lunchboxes. Do it with your child so they begin to take ownership.
Visual or written checklists (with images or simple words), are brilliant for neurodivergent and younger children. Older children can start to make them for themselves.
Work out what motivates your ‘slow child’ – a race, a timer, or a simple challenge can work wonders - unfortunately the more tense and stressed you get, the slower the child goes in my experience. Pinterest-perfect hallways are for show homes, it’s about streamlining the chaos in the morning and being kind to your morning self.
Build a Soft Landing after School
We often expect children to come home and jump straight into conversation or homework. But they’re emotionally spent. They need a reset.
Snacks first – fruit and protein go a long way toward refuelling tired brains.
Silence is OK. Try a walk, some quiet play, or an audiobook before diving into questions.
Instead of “How was your day?” try: “Tell me one weird thing that happened,” or “What did your teacher wear?” Give them space and show interest without pressure. They’ll talk when they’re ready and if not a family walk does wonders for helping children to open up.
Homework Hacks that Don’t End in Tears
Homework can be a minefield. As a teacher, I’ve set it, and as a parent, I know how hard it can be to get it right for every child. When it goes wrong, it quickly turns into a battleground.
Use the 10-minute rule – start with 10 minutes, with no pressure to finish. Praise the sitting down, not the output.
Routine around reading, times tables and spellings can really help. Think about when your child is at their best and then use this time. We used to practise tables while driving to school - there were no arguments because it used time where there was nothing better to do anyway.
Homework is meant to be independent tasks so if they can let them get on with it, but in reality everyone has a wobble once in a while. Sit with them if they are struggling – even if you’re just moral support it makes a difference and if you need to figure it out together let their teacher know.
Don’t Overfill the New Term
New term, new clubs, new ambitions. It’s tempting to sign up for everything. But your child doesn’t need fencing, French and football all in one go. The autumn term is a long one – often seven or eight weeks, half term and then the same again – and the shortening days take their toll on energy levels for all.
Leave space in your week for rest and recovery. Think practically – if you’ve got more than one child, how realistic are those overlapping pickups? Is there time for playdates and parties?
And don’t forget yourself – you need space too. Give your child time to settle into the rhythm of school before layering on new expectations. It’ll help everyone’s emotional regulation.
Look after You!
Lower the bar. Beans on toast is a very valid dinner. Meal plan if you can (AI can even help with this now). Be kind to your future self – use the slow cooker or batch cook when you can.
Make a ‘reset list’ of five things that help when you’re overwhelmed. Stick it to the fridge or biscuit cupboard. Find your people – whether it’s a WhatsApp group, a school mum you trust or an online community.
You can’t pour from an empty cup – and you can’t run a family on fumes.
The Bottom Line
Back to school doesn’t have to mean ‘back to burnout’. A few thoughtful routines, a bit of breathing space, and a whole lot of self-compassion go a long way. And remember, there’s no gold star for doing it all. There’s just getting through the week with everyone (mostly) fed, (mostly) dressed, and (mostly) emotionally intact.
You’ve got this – and if you haven’t, you’re definitely not the only one!
Vicky Collins, CEO of Total Tutoring, blends over a decade of teaching expertise with her parenting journey (of 4 children) and a passion for nurturing confidence and neurodiversity, helping children thrive through personalised learning and care. Find Vicky’s contact details on the left-hand page.
Mastering positive learning language
By Zuzu Jordan
How many times have you found yourself in a stand-off because your child says they ‘can’t’ do a challenging piece of homework? That word ‘can’t’ creates an immediate mental block. It shuts down part of the brain that could otherwise be open and ready to learn. One word can be powerful enough to shape the success of a learning journey.
What if we could help children use more open, hopeful language? What if the words they used gave them the confidence to try again instead of giving up? Let’s look at positive learning language. The way children talk to themselves – and how we speak to them – can completely shift their mindset and learning outcomes. Language is not just about communication; it shapes beliefs, emotions and behaviours. Here are some practical strategies to help develop this kind of language every day:
Acknowledge emotions first
To begin, acknowledge how your child feels. A simple: ‘I can see this is frustrating for you’ or ‘It’s okay to feel stuck sometimes’ can build safety and trust.
Ban the word ‘can’t.’ Replace it with: ‘I can’t do this yet’ or ‘I’m having difficulty with this.’ These phrases shift focus from finality to possibility, reminding children that ability grows with time and effort.
Start with what they know
Confidence grows when learners begin from a familiar place. Encourage the phrase: ‘Use what you know to figure out what you don’t.’ For example, using known multiplication facts to solve more difficult ones.
Break the task into steps
Ask questions like: ‘What can you already do?’ or ‘How can we make this easier by breaking it down?’ This helps children realise that progress often starts with small, manageable actions.
Remind them of past ‘wins’
Say: ‘Remember when this was tricky and now it’s easy?’ Reflecting on past successes helps children see that challenges are temporary and progress is possible.
Celebrate mistakes
Mistakes are mis-takes – opportunities to try again. Reframe them by asking: ‘What can I learn from this?’ This teaches that every mistake brings a new chance to grow.
Practice positive affirmations
Affirmations such as ‘I don’t give up easily’ or ‘I can work this out’ help your child rewire negative thinking. Repeating them regularly supports resilience and self-belief.
Praise effort over outcome
Say: ‘I noticed how hard you tried’ and ‘You’re improving every time,’ even if the task wasn’t finished. This reinforces a mindset that values learning over perfection.
Use the ‘Three Bs’ Rule
Teach your child to check: Brain – think independently. Book – look for clues or previous notes. Buddy – ask a peer. Only then, ask the Boss (teacher or adult). This encourages independence and self-reliance.
Retrain how they ask for help
Encourage more constructive ways to ask questions: ‘Can you explain that a different way?’ or ‘Can we go over that part again?’ This keeps your child engaged and curious.
The learning journey
Positive learning language develops understanding, resilience and confidence. Like climbing a mountain, the learning journey includes setbacks, discoveries and growth. But with the right words, the path becomes clearer and the climb achievable. By modelling and encouraging this language, we help children build the mindset they need not only to succeed in school but to thrive in life.
Zuzu is a Mastery for Maths Specialist who has taught primary for 18 years and is Director of Arnett International. For FREE resources and tips, find her on Instagram @ edumate_uk
Safe learning environment
Get Back-to-School ready and schedule a free assessment at Mathnasium of Amersham today and discover how we can help your child see maths differently.
Parents play a vital role in making learning feel safe and supportive.
Start by creating a calm, distraction-free space where your child can focus. Use encouraging language and praise effort, not just outcome. Let them know mistakes are part of learning and it’s okay to ask for help. Listen without judgement and show patience, even when they’re struggling. When children feel emotionally secure and supported at home, they’re more likely to stay motivated, confident and open to learning.
State, grammar or independent:
What's right for your child?
By Jemma Z Smith
Standing outside three school gates - state, grammar and independent - parents often wonder which will best suit their child. Sometimes the answer seems clear: your child is academic and prefers a competitive environment, your location means that you cannot access grammar schools or your finances rule out an independent school.
For other families, there’s no perfect answer, with compromises being made with each decision to ensure a child has the best possible education for them. Here are three stories which show how different schools can fit different children.
Emma
When Emma began preparing for the 11+, her parents could see her potential – she loved books and thrived on challenges. Grammar school seemed a natural step.
At a school Open Day, Emma lit up while discussing Shakespeare and was inspired by the art posters made by exam students that were displayed in the hall. But fast forward to the first set of practice tests: she scored highly on one subject but was in tears over maths errors. Emma confessed she loved stretching her mind but the pressure felt overwhelming.
Grammar schools offer a rigorous environment in which children choose to push themselves. For some, that same pressure becomes a barrier. I’ve coached students who flourish in grammar school settings and others who benefit more from freedom to explore beyond exams.
Leo
Leo moved from overseas and joined an independent school. Gifted in rugby and determined to improve his English, he found everything he needed there: English language support built into his timetable, tailored lesson plans when he missed class for rugby tours and elite sports facilities. Such schools often shine in surprising ways –they offer time off for performances, personal tutoring for speakers of other languages and flexibility when young people compete in sport or other areas.
But this comes at a cost, not just in pounds, but in expectations. For Leo’s peers, rugby fixtures on Friday and English essays by Monday became a norm and he had to be able to handle his tightly packed schedule. Keep in mind that applying to many of the more competitive independent schools also involves preparation for entrance exams.
Mia
Mia’s experience was different: she stayed at her local state school with her friends and older sister.
The school’s £8,210 per pupil funding meant that her teachers were well qualified and she was able to study a wide variety of subjects but after-school maths and drama were wanted and needed. Her parents hired a tutor and enrolled her in a weekend drama group. She grew - at her own pace. State schooling is inclusive and local but not always specialised. That’s why many families build a hybrid model, tapping into local schools and adding tuition or clubs in areas that need a boost. They choose this route
because it suits their child’s temperament: competitive when needed, supported when they need space.
Of course, this route assumes the quality of your local state secondary schools is high. Eighty percent of schools in the UK are now rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, but there are still some that fall short. Even if you do have good secondary schools within reach, many have defined catchment areas or priority areas, meaning that if you live within this area, you have a higher chance of getting a place. If you are unfortunate enough not to live in the catchment area of a good school, you may choose to look at alternatives to state education, depending on your circumstances.
Do your homework
Choosing between a state, grammar or independent school isn’t simply a question of reputation or cost; it’s about finding the right environment for your individual child. That means looking beyond league tables and brochures to consider academic pressure, flexibility, value for money and the day-to-day experience your child will have.
While academic results and facilities often take centre stage, some of the most important factors when choosing a type of schooling may not appear on a school’s website. Parents may not think to ask how a school fits the whole family: will younger siblings be able to join later on? What happens if a school would suit an academic elder child but not a younger sibling who wants to go at a slower pace?
In boarding environments it’s worth asking whether students stay at weekends or whether the school empties out, which could leave your child feeling isolated.
At all types of day schools, after-school provision varies widely. Does the school offer clubs that genuinely interest your child? If your child has to use public transport or a school bus to get to school, how will this work if they attend an after-school club?
Schools with a large international cohort can offer wonderful diversity, but may also not have a large representation from your culture. Practical details like meal arrangements, pastoral support, holiday schedules and homework expectations can also make a big difference to your child’s day-to-day experience and your family’s longterm happiness.
Ultimately, the decision rests not only on the schools themselves, but on your child. Ask yourself: does your child enjoy healthy competition and lift themselves up after failure? Or do they build best through small wins and steady encouragement? The ‘right’ school is the one that meets them where they are and helps them become who they want to be, whether it be state, grammar or independent.
Jemma Zoe Smith works with families as an education consultant to help them to school options. For further advice, visit: �� educationhotel.co.uk
Autumn Open Days Independent Schools
Berkhamsted
Pre-Prep and Prep Open Events: 3 and 4 October. Berkhamsted Girls Open Event: 19 September, 9.00– 11.00am.
Berkhamsted Boys Open Event: 19 September, 14:00 – 16:30pm.
Life at Berkhamsted Sixth - Open Event: 18 September, 16:30 – 19:00pm.
Subjects at Berkhamsted Sixth - Open Event: 15 October, 17:45 – 21:00pm. Book a place online:�� berkhamsted.com
26 September, 11 October and 13 November. Sign up at: �� godstowe.org High Wycombe, Girls 3-13yrs, Boys 3-7yrs.
Maltmans Green Friday 19 September. Gerrards Cross, Girls 2-11 years. �� maltmansgreen.com
Pipers Corner School
Saturday 4 October.
Book your time slot online: �� pipers.sc/visitpipers Great Kingshill, 4km from High Wycombe. Girls 4-18yrs.
The Beacon Stay and Play: Friday 19 September. Open Event: Saturday 27 September. Amersham. To book, scan QR code on page 11 or visit: �� beaconschool.co.uk
The Chalfonts
Sixth Form Open Evening: 23 September, 6:30– 8:30pm
Senior Open Evening (Yr 7-Yr 11): 23 Sept, 6:30– 8:30pm Open Day: Wednesday 8 October, 9:30am – 12:00pm. Year 7 Experience Day: 14 October, 8:45am – 3:30pm. To book, scan QR code on page 19 or click here.
Thorpe House
Whole School: Saturday 11 October, 10.00am–1.00pm. and Tuesday 14 October, 9.00am–11.00am. Sixth Form Open Evening: Wednesday 15 October, 6.30pm-8.00pm. Book online: �� thorpehouse.co.uk or scan the QR code on back cover to book your place.
Westbrook Hay Saturday 27 September. 9.30am – 12.30pm. �� westbrookhay.co.uk
Wycombe Prep Open Day:
Thursday 25 September, 9.00– 11.30am. 11 Plus Assessment Day: Friday 10 October, 9.00am – 3.30pm. Stay and Play: Friday 10 October, 10.00 – 11.30am. To book, scan the QR code on page 19 or click here
Independent School for boys and girls aged 3-16 years
‘I didn’t mean to start it,’ said Daisy Greenwell, ‘it’s just spreading like wildfire. So far over 152,800 UK parents have signed up to her accidental community of families who are hoping to delay giving their children smartphones by forming pacts with other parents.
One evening, mums Clare Fernyhouse and Daisy Greenwell were commiserating about the new normal of giving children a smartphone by the age of 11. They felt trapped between going with the flow or leaving their children feeling socially isolated:
‘It’s the element of feeling like you have no choice, it’s insane and it’s flying in the face of the mounting evidence about the harm.’
Daisy and Clare decided to start a pact with a WhatsApp group with just the two of them. They posted about it on Instagram and by the very next day hundreds of others had joined their group: the Smartphone Free Childhood campaign had begun, a growing movement of families who believe childhood’s too short to scroll away. Now hundreds of schools have their own communities.
The founders are very aware that having a social media app in your pocket has become a gateway to content you wouldn’t otherwise want your child to see. ‘For many children, their first experience of the world of sex is now extreme pornography. Imagine what that does to a child’s sense of what a good relationship is!’ remarks Daisy.
How to get involved and start a ‘Smartphone Pact’
Find ‘your people’ and form a small working group of parents at your school who are like-minded. Avoid being judgemental with other parents. Ask questions and listen to how people are feeling, rather than approaching it as an argument to be won or lost. Start a WhatsApp group at your school and encourage others to join.
Talk to the leadership team at the school about your concerns and try to get a relationship going. Teachers are worried too! You could suggest that the school hosts an expert speaker on the dangers of smartphones.
Ask the school to use parent mail to contact all parents at the school to conduct a survey on smartphone usage in the school. If the survey confirms there is enough support, you can ask parents if they would like to join a pact.
See the Smartphone Free Childhood website (smartphonefreechildhood.co.uk) for a detailed PDF guide to getting your school involved. The website includes templates for writing to your school.
With a five-year-old daughter, Daisy is particularly concerned about how vulnerable girls are while on social media. ‘Girls between 11 and 13 years old are outsourcing their sense of what is cool to influencers and levels of depression and anxiety are related to how long they spend scrolling. There can also be an issue with bullying. If your child is being bullied, it doesn’t stop when you get home from school, the bullies are in your pocket all day long.’
Many parents assume the age 13 limit for social media is a guide to suitability, like the ratings system for films. Actually, it originated when US politicians set 13 as the age when a child could give consent (as an adult would) for tech companies to sell their data.
‘It’s not about making parents feel judged’ says Daisy, ‘we have all been put into an impossible situation by the big tech companies who are making billions from selling their data and companies are using that data to make even more money selling stuff to our kids.’
Find out more at: �� smartphonefreechildhood.co.uk
How to talk to your child about smartphones
It’s easier to start in the earlier years. Talk about how smartphones are not really for kids and that grown-ups use them for doing work, chores, shopping, paying bills etc. Explain that phones are addictive and harmful to kids’ brains and attention spans, which are still developing.
Talk about how real-world interaction is much healthier than the junk food of social media and about how difficult it is to resist the constant videos from influencers. Explain how they are being targeted by the tech companies and advertisers. Use phrases like: ‘don’t let the tech companies take over your brain - have your own brain.’
Consider alternatives to smartphones that don’t have access to the internet. For teens: if your kids are older, try watching the Netflix Documentary ‘The Social Dilemma’ together. You may like to consider denying access to social media apps. Parents who have already done this say that you can expect your child to be furious and withdraw for a couple of weeks, but they will thank you later.
Keeping your child healthy this school year
By Ellie Malt
The beginning of another school year is the perfect time to prepare for the illnesses that inevitably re-appear in classrooms as the months get colder.
Recognising the signs and taking precautionary action will definitely minimise the number of sick days off school and work.
Spotting the signs
Scarlet Fever. The most common symptoms include sore throat, fever, swollen neck glands, a bumpy rash on the chest and tummy with a sandpaper-like feel, flushed cheeks and ‘strawberry tongue.’
Measles. Since 2023 there have been major measles outbreaks in the West Midlands, the North West and London. Measles can be very serious and even cause fatalities. The initial symptoms are runny nose, a cough, sneezing, a high temperature and red, sore, watery eyes. This is followed by white spots in the mouth a few days later and then a rash on the face. It’s very unlikely to be measles if your child has had both doses of the MMR vaccine or they’ve had measles before.
Chicken Pox. A highly contagious, itchy, spotty rash is the main symptom of chickenpox. It can be anywhere on the body.
Prevention is better than cure
If your child’s vaccinations are up to date they will be protected against whooping cough, measles, mumps and rubella. Most provide lifelong immunity. Unvaccinated children are at higher risk of contracting these illnesses and having more severe symptoms. They can also spread diseases to others. Check your child’s red book or contact your GP surgery to ensure they are up to date.
Which supplements? While vitamins A, C and D support the immune system, the NHS does not recommend mega doses or supplements like zinc or echinacea for cold prevention. According to the UK government, all children ages 1 to 4 and all babies (unless they’re having more than 500ml of infant formula a day) should take a daily vitamin D supplement throughout the year. Children of any age with darker skin, should consider supplementing all year. For everyone else, the advice is to take a daily vitamin D supplement during autumn and winter.
Teach good hygiene habits. Good hygiene DOES stop infections from spreading. Remind your child to wash hands properly, use tissues and stay away from others when sick. Fresh air can also reduce the spread of viruses.
When to keep your child at home?
It’s fine to send your child to school or nursery with a minor cough or cold if they are otherwise well and don’t have a high temperature. But if your child has a fever, they should stay home until they feel better and the fever has resolved. If they have diarrhoea they should stay home for at least forty-eight hours after the last episode.
Children and young people are no longer routinely tested for COVID-19. But if your child has tested positive, they should try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for three days after their positive result.
If your child has the symptoms of measles and has not had both doses of the MMR vaccine, they should not attend school.
It’s handy to keep a stock of basic supplies to treat common childhood illnesses, such as Paracetamol and Ibuprofen (child and adult versions), age-appropriate cold treatments, a thermometer, tissues and vitamins (the NHS provides FREE vitamin drops through the Healthy Start Scheme).
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Give your child a confidence boost this autumn with Perform
As children head back to school after the summer break, a common challenge many face is a dip in confidence. This can hold them back from reaching their full potential both socially and academically.
Whether your child needs a little boost or simply loves to socialise, Perform is the perfect weekly outlet for fun, energy and self-expression with its confidencebuilding classes in drama, dance and singing for ages 4-7 and 7-12.
“Perform is not a stage school,” says Perform Principal, Lucy Quick. “Our sessions are all about teaching life skills through fun, engaging activities. Every class is designed to develop what we call the 4Cs: confidence, concentration, coordination and communication.”
Each term ends with a performance, giving every child a chance to shine. And before your child even begins, Perform offers a free trial class, with time spent discussing your child’s specific needs; whether that’s speaking in a group, making eye contact or meeting new friends.
This Autumn’s Magical Line-Up: Ages 4-7: Join an adventure with Magical Merlin
Ages 7-12: Star in Ebenezer, a fun twist on A Christmas Carol
To book a free, no-obligation trial, visit �� perform.org.uk/try
Ask the
Expert:
What does ‘co-parenting’ mean and how can it work well?
Q: I’ve heard the term ‘co-parenting’ a lot lately. What does it actually mean, and how can separated parents make it work for their children?
A: Co-parenting is when two parents work together to raise their children after a separation or divorce. It’s about putting aside personal differences to focus on what matters most: the wellbeing and happiness of your children. At its heart, co-parenting is a partnership. It doesn’t mean you have to be best friends with your ex-partner, but it does mean maintaining respectful communication, making joint decisions where possible, and creating a stable, supportive environment for your children.
Here are a few key principles that help coparenting work well:
1. Keep communication child-focused. Try to keep conversations centred around your children’s needs, routines, and wellbeing. Avoid using your children as messengers or involving them in adult disagreements or contact arrangements.
2. Be consistent, but flexible. Children thrive on routine, so try to agree on consistent rules, bedtimes, and expectations across both households. At the same time, life happens – so being flexible and understanding with each other can go a long way.
3. Respect each other’s time. Honour the agreed parenting schedule and give plenty of notice if changes are needed. This builds trust and shows your children that both parents are reliable and respectful.
4. Make big decisions together. Whether it’s about schooling, health, or holidays, try to make major decisions jointly. This helps children feel secure and supported by both parents.
5. Focus on the positives. Children benefit from seeing their parents co-operate. Even small gestures – like a shared birthday celebration or a kind word about the other parent – can make a big difference to how children adjust.
Co-parenting isn’t always easy, especially in the early days after a separation. But with patience, communication, and a shared commitment to your children, it can become a strong and positive arrangement. If you’re struggling to agree on arrangements, family mediation or legal advice, Machins can help you find a way forward that works for everyone.
Contact our Family Team on 01442 872311 or book a free consultation via our website, machins.co.uk and take the first step toward clarity and resolution.
About the Author: Victoria Grant is an Associate at Machins Solicitors LLP, specialising in private family law including; child arrangements, domestic abuse, and financial settlements.
Parenting
A whole new parenting world
By Ann Magalhaes
In the twenty-two years since I became a mum, parenting advice has shifted from trusty books like What to Expect and Gina Ford’s routines to sleek apps, algorithms and an endless stream of online advice.
What has changed?
For starters, once the baby phase passes, many parents are turning to evidence-based parenting classes. These offer practical, science-backed ways to help families thrive. Research continues to show that everyday routines, the words we choose and the way we say them and how we support our children through big feelings all contribute to nurturing their development.
And one truth remains: parents are still their child’s first and most important teacher. Today’s parents benefit from easyto-digest information about how a child’s brain develops and how that connects to their behaviour. Reading, singing, snuggling, just being there still matter more than any educational toy ever could.
Emotional wellness
One big change (and it’s a good one!) is how emotional wellness is at the forefront of family life. Parents are learning about the ‘4 S’s’ - making sure children feel safe, seen, soothed and secure. And that’s not just good for the kids, it’s great for the whole family.
Dads are more involved than ever, especially since the pandemic saw us working from home and figuring out how to balance work with family life. Today’s parents work more as a partnership, with both mums and dads actively in the mix. Is it perfect yet? No. But the progress is positive.
The rise of baby apps
Today’s 30-year-old mum was 12 when the iPhone came out. She’s tech-savvy - and now there’s an app for everything! One new mum uses Huckleberry, an app she describes as ‘super user-friendly’ and a ‘huge help during those overwhelming early weeks.’ At first, the app helped her track things like weight, sleep and feeding, data she could easily share with her GP. I asked if it ever made her feel like she wasn’t doing enough (because apps can
sometimes make us feel that way!). She laughed and said: ‘I always feel like I’m not doing enough as a new mum but I wouldn’t say the app itself is contributing to that!’ So, yes, mum guilt is still a thing. No matter what, parents still feel like they’re falling short, even when they’re doing more than enough.
Positive discipline
One big shift I’ve noticed is in discipline. Thanks to social media and the abundance of advice floating around (some excellent, some less so), more parents are moving away from old-school punishments, threats, bribes and shouting. Instead, they’re learning that authoritative parenting, based on warmth, connection and firm boundaries, is the most effective way to support a child’s emotional development and learning.
Some things never change
Life today may be faster and busier than it was twenty-two years ago, but some things haven’t changed. Children of all ages don’t need the fanciest toys or the trendiest gear. They need you: your time, your love, your calm and steady presence. We like to remind parents that they are enough, that their family is unique and doesn’t need to match anyone else’s. As children grow, learn, make mistakes, gain competencies and become independent, the best way to help them is by embracing positive, connected parenting. Yes, you may still feel exhausted (because parenting is really hard sometimes) but you’ll find greater calm and joy amidst the chaos. As Gretchen Rubin wrote: ‘The days are long, but the years are short. So ... cuddle that baby, or toddler, or tween or teen ... because it goes by so quickly!’
Ann Magalhaes is part of The Parent Team (theparent. team), parenting educators offering classes, workshops and private sessions teaching evidence-based parenting skills and offering parents practical, effective support.
You don’t have to figure sleep out alone
I’m a Norland Nanny and Sleep Consultant, here to gently guide you through sleep challenges whether your little one is waking often, struggling to settle, or just not getting the rest they need
From one-off calls and sleep workshops to personalised 1:1 suppor t, I’ll help you find calm, confidence, and a rhythm that works for your family
Because better sleep means A happier, more settled baby
Evenings that feel peaceful again T ime to enjoy a hot drink with two hands
Gentle Reassuring Tailored to you Let’s find the right sleep solution together
Melanie – Norland Nanny & Sleep Consultant w w w melaniehastings sleepnanny co uk @sleepnannymelaniehastings
Star t your sleep journey here
Make Skull Cupcakes for Halloween
Cupcakes are usually round but with a clever trick we can make them skull shaped. If you want to be very fancy, you can get some tubes of coloured icing and decorate your cakes with colourful patterns.
Top tip: it’s important to use really ripe bananas for this recipe because they’re soft and sweet. The best ones are brown or almost black.
Ingredients
Cupcakes:
2 ripe bananas (peeled)
100ml vegetable oil
¼ tsp grated nutmeg
50g caster sugar
50g soft brown sugar
120g self-raising flour
½ tsp baking powder
Step 1
Preheat oven to 180°C (fanassisted).
Step 5
Fill each cupcake case threequarters full. Gently push a baking bean (or scrunched-up ball of foil) either side of the case. Bake for 15 minutes, until golden.
Step 9
Break up the flaked almonds and add little pieces to each skull for the teeth.
Fill your diary with these autumn events and activities for all the family to enjoy.
With thanks to Claire LockieWilliams for compiling.
Weekly Classes
COLOURZONE ART & CRAFTS CLUB
Cedar Barn, Hazelmere.
Exciting clubs for kids of all abilities to explore and develop their artistic skills, interests in arts and crafts, and sewing. Pre-booking required.
Times: Fridays 3.30-5pm: Art and Sewing (term-time). Tuesdays: Home Ed 1-2.30pm. To book: colourzoneartclubs.uk
LITTLE BOOKER BOUNCERS
GymAntics at Booker Gym Club, High Wycombe.
New pre-school trampolining classes focusing on balance, co-ordination and spatial awareness.
Times: Fridays 10am & 11am. To book: Email gym@hwjc.co.uk
PRE-SCHOOL GYMNASTICS
GymAntics at Booker Gym Club, High Wycombe.
Structured gymnastics pre-school classes covering vault, beam, bars, trampette, tumble, rings and floor. Sessions focus on key physical development skills through fun and structured play. Times: Mon 1pm; Tues & Thurs 1pm, 2pm, 3pm Book: bookergymclub.co.uk or email: gymantics@hwjc.co.uk
PERFORM WEEKLY DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING CLASSES
Confidence-building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Classes in Amersham, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Gerrards Cross or Wendover. To book a FREE class visit: perform.org.uk/try
THE LITTLE GYM
Handy Cross Hub, High Wycombe. Empowering children through motor skill building, core strengthening gymnastic classes for all age groups. A variety of different classes for ages 4mths-12yrs. Times: Daily classes, check website for required age group. Book: handycross.thelittlegym.co.uk
TISKA KARATE
At TISKA Karate, children and adults alike learn the essentials of etiquette, respect, self discipline, self awareness, confidence, fitness, and self-defence. Contact: office@tiska.com for further details of your 1 month free trial.
TRAPDOOR
Acting classes with West End actors and TV professionals. Musical theatre and dance classes also on Saturdays. Act, dance and sing in separate classes for pre-school, infants, juniors and teens across all disciplines. Celebrating 100% pass rate in LAMDA and IDTA examinations year-on-year and each student earning a Distinction in their LAMDA’s in 2025. trapdoordrama.com
MULTISPORTS
Weekend classes and Summer Workshops held at Dr Challoner’s High school. 18 sports a year and weekly team building. Ideal for ages 4 -16. Book a two week trial today at: multisports.co.uk
September
Open Daily
EDEN SHOPPING CENTRE
High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. Vast shopping centre with a variety of amenities, eateries and family activities. There’s clip n climb, Hollywood Bowl, Arcades and go- karting. edenshopping.co.ukSat
BEYOND THE STARS
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Step into a world of spaceships, aliens and time travel with this exciting new exhibition featuring original props and models from Doctor Who, Red Dwarf and The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Exhibition on until 5th October. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Mill Lane, HP8 4QA. Stalls and rides plus lots of great shows: bike stunts, dinosaur,falconry & parkour. csgshow.org
Sunday 7 September
AMERSHAM HERITAGE DAY
Old Amersham High Street. Fun-filled family day out with fairground rides, farmers market, classic cars and more. As a bonus, there’s also Amersham Museum. 11.30am-5.30pm. amersham-tc.gov.uk
STEAMING DAYS
Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway. Take a steam train ride! Kids-for-a-quid to ride. Most Sundays. See website: chinnorrailway.co.uk
Tuesday 9 September
HOME ED KIDS POP UP MARKET
Stampwell Farm, HP9 2XD
A wonderful showcase of the next generation of entrepreneurs. Come and support local kids at this year’s pop up market for home educated kids. 10am2pm. Contact: Jennifer for more info on 07500596635
STORYTIME ADVENTURE
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. Stories, crafts and interactive games. Ages 2-4yrs. 10am. Also 10 October. atgtickets.com
What’s On
Wednesday 10 September
HIGH WYCOMBE TOTS
Oakridge Baptist Church, High Wycombe. Toddler play group. 9.30-11.30am. kindnessinbucks.com
Thursday 11 September
DISCOVER DUCKS
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury.
A fun themed play session for under 5s and their grown-ups. September’s theme: ‘dinosaurs.’ October’s theme: ‘construction.’ 10am-12pm. Also on 25 September, 9 and 23 October. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Friday 12 September
OLOPS TODDLERS
Our Lady of Perpetual Succor Catholic Church, Chesham Bois. Small baby and toddler group for parents/carers of babies and children under 5 with special educational needs and disabilities. 1-2.15pm. Message in advance to book. Fridays, term time. ourladyschurch-cheshambois.org
TITCHY TODDLERS
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, Great Missenden. Enjoy exclusive access to the Museum for little ones in this Fantabulous Food themed session. 6 months to 4 yrs. 10am-12pm. ‘Nature and outdoors’ session on 13 October. roalddahlmuseum.org
Friday 12 – Sunday 21 September
HERITAGE OPEN DAYS
England’s largest festival of history and culture, supported by volunteers and the community. FREE entry to many amazing locations. Check website for full listings. heritageopendays.org.uk
Friday 12 – Friday 19 September
HUGHENDEN MANOR OPEN DAYS
Hughenden Manor, West Wycombe. FREE entry for Hughenden Manor and a chance to see their new Art exhibition. 10am-4pm, FREE. nationaltrust.org
Friday 12 – Sunday 21 September
CLAYDON HOUSE OPEN DAYS
Claydon House, nr Buckingham. FREE entry to Claydon House. 10.30am-3.30pm. nationaltrust.org
Saturday 13 September
COUNTRYMAN’S FAVOURS
Bradwell Windmill, Milton Keynes. Make a countryman’s favour and enjoy the windmill. 1.30-4.30pm, drop-in. heritageopendays.org.uk
CULTURAL HARMONY
The Trinity Centre, Milton Keynes. Vibrant community celebration with music, entertainment and cultural dance. 1-10pm, FREE. heritageopendays.org.uk
HENLEY FARM AND COUNTRY SHOW
Henley Showground, Hambleden. Connect with the countryside at this fab show. Pony racing, animal displays, birds of prey & fun fair! thehenleyshow.co.uk
MARLOW CARNIVAL
Higginson Park, Marlow.
Annual carnival with live music, kids rides, entertainment and music. 11am, free. marlowcarnival.com
TACTILE EXPLORERS
Tring Natural History Museum. A special event by the Museum welcoming blind and partially sighted children and their families to get hands on with specimens. 11am-12pm. FREE. Booking essential. nhm.ac.uk/tring
Saturday 13 September (cont’)
VILLAGE SHOW
Tylers Green Village Hall, Penn. 55th traditional village show with prizes for handmade, home-grown items. 2pm. pennandtylersgreenvillageshow.com
Saturday 13 – Sunday 14 September
WOLVERTON SCARECROW FESTIVAL
Community Orchard, Wolverton. The Scarecrow Festival is back! 11am4pm. heritageopendays.org.uk
Sunday 14 September
CHEARSLEY CLASSIC AND VINTAGE
Chearsley Cricket Club.
Classic and vintage vehicles, children’s entertainment, fun fair, arts and crafts and more! 11am-4pm. ccvfd.co.uk
CHILTERN’S 3 PEAKS CHALLENGE
Princes Risborough School. Family and dog-friendly event raising money for Rennie Grove Hospice. renniegrovepeace.org
SANTA EARLY VISIT- STOP THE PRESS Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway. Santa is making a surprise visit to the railway to meet children. 10am-4pm. See website for details. chinnorrailway.co.uk
THE GARDEN PARTY
Ashridge House, Berkhamsted. Family fun with circus skills, puppet shows, crafts and more! Check online for discounted tickets. stfrancis.org.uk
Monday 15 September
HERITAGE OPEN DAY
Stowe Gardens, Buckingham. FREE entry for Stow Gardens, Stowe Parish church, the Gothic Temple, Temple of Venus and Stowe House. 10am-5pm. nationaltrust.org
MINI MONDAYS
Iver Environment Centre, Iver. Themed craft sessions for toddlers and their grown-ups. Also 6 and 20 Oct. iverenvironmentcentre.org
here to pop us an email: advertise@familieschiltern.co.uk or let’s chat: 01494 689098.
Monday 15 September – 20 October
CONFIDENT, HEALTHY, ACTIVE CHILD
Newtown Family Centre, Chesham. Support your toddler in learning more about the world and spend some quality time together. 10am-12pm. 2-4yrs. ‘Wonderful One’ workshops on alternative dates in Chesham for toddlers 1-2yrs. FREE. adultlearningbc.ac.uk
Thursday 18 September
BRICKZ MUSEUM OPEN DAY
The Trinity Centre, Milton Keynes. A FREE day at the Museum dedicated to everything Lego. 10.30am-5pm. heritageopendays.org.uk
COOPER & NEWTOWN MUSEUM OPEN DAY
Onley, Buckinghamshire. Explore Georgian life and wander through beautiful gardens. 11am-4pm. heritageopendays.org.uk
TIGGYWINKLES VISITOR CENTRE
Haddenham, HP23 6ED. Meet a hedgehog, peek through the hospital windows and enjoy the exhibitions. Under 3yrs free. Family tickets available. Winter opening days Thursday to Monday. sttiggywinkles.org.uk
Thurs 18 – Sunday 21 September
MILTON KEYNES BEER & GIN FESTIVAL
Milton Keynes Museum. Celebrate Heritage Open Days at the Beer and Gin festival.
10.30am-4.30pm. FREE. miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk
Thurs 18 September – 15 October
LITTLE COOKS
Princes Risborough Family Centre, Buckinghamshire.
Support your toddler in learning more about cooking and spend some quality time together. 10am-12pm. 2-4yrs free. Also, at Amersham 17 SeptemberOctober.
adultlearningbc.ac.uk
Saturday 20 September
HERITAGE CRAFTS AND SKILLS
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.
Showcasing a variety of crafts on a variety of date- starting with ‘Traditional Leatherwork.’ Check website for all crafts and dates. 10.30am-4.30pm. Under 4yrs FREE. See tickets online. coam.org.uk
HUMANITY DIRECT TRING ULTRA
Tring Park Cricket Club, Tring. One day trail challenge through the stunning Chiltern Hills. FREE entry, when raising money for Humanity Direct.xnrg.co.uk
ILLUMINATED BOAT PARADE
Fawley Meadows, Henley. Fun and free annual community evening with boats of all shapes and sizes parading in front of spectators on both sides of the river, plus celebrity judges. Drop-by from 7.30pm. illuminatedparade.com
Saturday 20 September (cont’)
NICK COPE: I’VE LOST MY BOBBLE HAT
The Stables, Milton Keynes. Fun-filled music hour. 3+yrs. 11am and 2pm. stables.org
OKTOBERFEST
The Walled Garden, West Wycombe. Festive family fun with themed BBQ. 12-5pm, BBQ served 12-3pm and 4:305pm. For tickets, see: westwycombewalledgarden.com
Saturday 20 – Sunday 21 September
KOP HILL CLIMB FESTIVAL
Kop Hill, Princes Risborough. Entertainment for all the family at this noncompetitive hill climb for classic and vintage cars. For tickets, see: kophillclimb.org.uk
ROALD DAHL’S CHILDREN’S GALLERY
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Crawl along Fantastic Mr Fox’s tunnel, investigate minibeasts inside the Giant Peach and explore sound with the BFG. Open weekends and throughout Bucks school holidays. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Sunday 21 September
BLUEY COMES TO BUCKS RAIL Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.
Meet Bluey and take photos! Steam train rides and the Railway Centre delights. 11am-4pm. To pre-book: bucksrailcentre.org
Family Fun Trail at Bletchley Park
Illuminated Boat Parade, 20 Sep
Make, Play Do: Half-Term Art Workshops
Thursday 25 September
SUPER TROUPERS- CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
Chesham Library, Chesham. Free drop-in group to support those with cancer and share experiences. 10-11am. Also, on 23 Oct. buckinghamshire.gov.uk
SPECIALITY COFFEE AND CHOCOLATE TASTING EVENING
Peterley Manor Farm, The Barn Kitchen. Explore the world of speciality coffee and artisan chocolate. Led by experts: Origin Coffee and Rumsey’s chocolatiers. 6.30-8.30pm, adults £40. Book online: peterleymanorfarm.co.uk
Friday 26 – Saturday 27 September
JUMBLE SALE
GXCA, Gerrards Cross. Fundraising for the GXCA. 10am-1pm, £3 entrance fee. gxca.org.uk
Saturday 27 – Sun 28 September
FANTASTIC AND FABULOUS 1940’S WEEKEND
Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes. Re-enactors, food vendors and family activities set inside this amazing historic venue. Kids under 12yrs FREE! bletchleypark.org.uk
TRADITIONAL HARVEST FESTIVAL
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.
Discover the terrific traditions of farming history, ride on a traditional carriage, meet re-enactors and more! 10am-5pm. Under 4yrs FREE. coam.org.uk
Sunday 28 September
LDN WRESTLING
Elgiva Theatre, Chesham. Great family fun with the Kings of British wrestling! 2pm. Book online: elgiva.com
ROALD DAHL RAMBLE
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, Great Missenden. A Fantastic Mr Fox themed walk in the local woods that inspired the book. 11.30am and 2pm. £10pp. roalddahlmuseum.org 5 Oc
Sunday 5 October
TITCHY TODDLERS
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, Great Missenden. Author events, craft activities, talks, storytelling and book signing at this ‘Author In Me’ Festival. 10am-4.30pm. roalddahlmuseum.org
Friday 10 October
QUIZ NIGHT
GXCA, Gerrards Cross. Ready to play? Fundraising for the GXCA. From 7pm. For tickets see, gxca.org.uk
Friday 10 – Saturday 11 October
STICK MAN
Wycombe Swan, St Mary’s Street. Touching funny and original adaptation. Multiple showings. See website, wycombeswan.co.uk
Saturday 11 – Sunday 12 October
DAY OUT WITH THOMAS
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.
Ride with Thomas the Tank Engine and Percy, meet Trevor, Sir Topham Hatt,
Rust and Dusty. Also enjoy storytime, sing-a-longs and more. 10.30am-5pm. To pre-book: bucksrailcentre.org
Sunday 12 October
CAMPFIRE HERITAGE STORIES
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.
Join storytellers from Buckinghamshire’s LGBTQ+ community around the campfire. 2-3pm. Under 4yrs FREE. To buy tickets: coam.org.uk
EXPLORE YOUR WAY- RELAXED DAY
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, Great Missenden.
Special SEND relaxed day with sensory storytelling of ‘The Giraffe, the Pelly and Me’. 10am-4.30pm. roalddahlmuseum.org
THE MUD PACK CHALLENGE
Ashridge House, Berkhamsted. Get filthy for The Hospice of St Francis with this obstacle challenge. 10am start. stfrancis.org.uk
TOP SECRET- THE MAGIC OF SCIENCE
Elgiva Theatre, Chesham. Mystery, suspense and lots of mess! 2pm. elgiva.com
Saturday 18 October – Fri 31 October
PUMPKIN-FEST
The Walled Garden, West Wycombe. Celebrate the Autumn Harvest and enjoy the pumpkin patch. Pre-booking essential: westwycombewalledgarden
Tuesday 21 – Wednesday 22 October
PEPPA PIG’S BIG FAMILY SHOW
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. There’s a new arrival on the way. Multiple times. For tickets, atgtickets.com
GOLDEN DIWALI
GXCA, Gerrards Cross. A Bollywood affair. From 7pm. For tickets see: gxca.org.uk
Saturday 25 October
DIWALI CELEBRATION
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Celebrating Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights. 11am-4pm. Under 4yrs free. coam.org.uk
Saturday 25 – Sunday 26 October
BLUEY’S BIG PLAY
Wycombe Swan, St Mary’s Street. Puppet show and theatrical adaptation based on ‘Bluey’. Multiple showings. wycombeswan.co.uk
LABYRINTH EXPERIENCE AND MASKED BALL
Wycombe Abbey, High Wycombe. Labyrinth Convention for all Goblin King fans. labyrinth-experience.com
Half Term Happenings
Monday 27 October – 31 October
FAMILY FUN TRAIL
Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes. Interactive and creative trail exploring Bletchley Park and its codebreaking history. FREE with admission. bletchleypark.org.uk
Saturday 25 October – 2 November
HAUNTED HALF TERM
Waddesdon Manor, nr Aylesbury. Enjoy a spooky trail, visit the skull shack and feel free to get dressed up. Free entry to Waddesdon for kids! Waddesdon.org.uk
THE TWITS AND REVOLTING RHYMES
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, Great Missenden. Celebrate the mischief and mayhem of Mr and Mrs Twit with crafts, walks and activities throughout the half-term. Plus, storytelling from both The Twits and Revolting Rhymes. Workshops £5, storytelling FREE. roalddahlmuseum.org
Saturday 25 October – 22 February
I GREW UP 90S
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Step into a fab era of britpop, iconic fashion and great music. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Saturday 25 October – 2 November
SPIRITS OF STOWE
Stowe Gardens, Buckingham. Spot ghosts in the garden, solve spooky puzzles and learn more about some of the ghosts said to haunt New Inn. 10am-4pm. nationaltrust.org
Sun 26 October– 3 November
PUMPKIN FESTIVAL
Odds Farm Park, Wooburn. Pumpkin carving at the Pumpkin Patch, Spooky surprises and Halloween crafts. oddsfarm.co.uk
WHIZZ KIDS
Indoor children’s activity centre in Thame. Giant play frame, toddler play frame, sports arena & bouncy castle! whizzkidz-thame.co.uk
BEKONSCOT MODEL VILLAGE
Beaconsfield.
One to keep an eye on for half-term fun, plus the joys of the Model village itself! 10am-5.30pm. Note, from 2nd November, Bekonscot’s festive season starts and open dates may differ. bekonscot.co.uk
Monday 27 October
MAGIC POTION FAMILY WORKSHOP
The Walled Garden, West Wycombe. Make your own magic potions. 6+yrs. 2.30-6.30pm. Pre-booking essential. Other family workshops available: book nook making, painting and moon craft. westwycombewalledgarden
Monday 27 – Tuesday 28 October
PAINTING WORKSHOPS
Amersham, Buckinghamshire
Lovely art and craft workshops for kids 8-12yrs during the half term. 10am3pm. Booking essential. makeplaydo.com
SPOOKY SCIENCE
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Fizzing witches’ brews, potion making and more! 5-11yrs. Multiple time slots. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Tuesday 28 October
STARGAZING AT STOWE
Stowe House, Buckingham. A spectacular journey through the cosmos. 6-8pm. To book: stowe.co.uk
TERRIFIC TUESDAY
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles.
Kids activities and crafts with the theme ‘Horrendous History’ 11am-4pm. Under 4yrs free. See tickets online.coam.org.uk
Tuesday 28 – Wednesday 29 October
AUTUMN OWLS
Tring Natural History Museum. Discover the secret life of owls and get crafty. Multiple times. Also, on 31 October. FREE. nhm.ac.uk/tring
Wednesday 29 October
MORDOC MUMMIES
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Make your own Mummy. 5-11yrs. Multiple time slots. To book, see: discoverbucksmuseum.org
Wednesday 29–Thursday 30 October
HALLOWEEN FAMILY NATURE DAYS Amersham Field Centre, Mop End. Halloween trail, spooky crafts and learning about nature in Autumn. £5pp. field-studies-council.org
Mud Pack Challenge, 12 Oct
KIDS FREE
Thursday 30 October
LATE NIGHT TRICKS
What’s On
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, Great Missenden. Halloween fun at the Museum with trick-or-treat trail, spooky crafts and after dark explorations. FREE with Museum entry. roalddahlmuseum.org
Tring Natural History Museum. Get dressed up, grab a torch and join the Museum for spooky fun. Free entry. Booking essential. nhm.ac.uk/tring
Thursday 30 – Friday 31 October
PAPER ART WORKSHOPS
Make Play Do, Amersham.
Lovely art and craft workshops for kids 8-12yrs during half-term. 10am-3pm. Booking essential: makeplaydo.com
Friday 31 October
HALLOWEEN SPECTACULAR
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Scary stories, spooky horses and chilling walks! 5-9pm. coam.org.uk
TRICK OR TREAT
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Spooky Trick or Treating in the oldest building in Aylesbury! 3-11yrs. 10.30am1.30pm. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Pumpkin Patches
PETERLEY MANOR FARM
Peterley Manor Farm, Great Missenden. Pumpkin picking and family activities. peterleymanorfarm.co.uk
CHURCH FARM
Weston Turville. Bale plays and pumpkin picking. churchfarmbucks.co.uk
FARMER PAUL’S PUMPKINS
Weeden Hill Farm, Aylesbury. Pumpkin picking and pumpkin displays. farmerpaul.co.uk
NATHAN’S FARM PUMPKIN PATCH
Little Chalfont. Pumpkin picking at this family run farm. nathansfarm.co.uk
PUMPKINS AT THE PATCH
The Patch MK, Milton Keynes. Pumpkin picking galore! Plus ‘Night at the Patch’ dates to be announced shortly: Axe-throwing, live music, fire shows and pumpkin picking! thepatchmk.co.uk
THE PUMPKIN FARM
Chesham, (Christmas Tree Farm.) Bring the kids, see the displays, pursue the pumpkins and gift shop. thepumpkinfarm.co.uk
THRIFT FARM
Thrift Farm, Miltion Keynes. Fun at the farm and Halloween happenings no doubt! thrift-farm.co.uk
Book Ahead: 5 December – 4 January
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. Heinous henchmen, captured cows and young heroes in this spectacular pantomime-including a LIVE water fight! Book now at: atgtickets.com
THORPE HOUSE SCHOOL
Creating the Future
Independent Boys School for age 4-16 with a Co-Educational Sixth Form
Thorpe House Sixth Form
For over 100 years, Thorpe House has nurtured con dent, curious learners in a supportive, dynamic environment. Small by design, we o er personalised learning, strong values and a rich curriculum where every child is known and encouraged to thrive.
Whole School Open Days
Saturday 11th October 2025, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Scan the QR code to nd out more and book your place.
In the heart of Gerrards Cross, our inspirational Sixth Form o ers rst class teaching, with an emphasis on academic achievement, the development of key life skills, leadership and exploration, extended pastoral care, and bespoke university and careers guidance.
Discover more at our Open Evening on Wednesday 15th October, 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Scan the QR code to discover more and book your place.
