Written and directed by Toby Hulse
Dear Reader,
As we start another school year, and for many of us the familiar first walk back to school in September, the return to school after a long summer juggling work and childcare will come as a guilty relief for so many families. As the conkers ripen on the trees (one of the first hints of autumn), thoughts of long summer days turn to cosy nights in and comforting food. Why not make the most of those end-of-summer days with our selection of things to do in the regular ‘What’s On’ guide on pages 8 & 9.
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4. News & Views
7. The importance of music in child development
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to your children as if
8. What's On
they
the wisest, kindest, most beautiful and magical humans on earth, for what they believe is what they become. Brooke Hampton
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OXFORD
PLAYHOUSE IS GEARING UP FOR A MAGICAL JOURNEY TO LONDON TOWN IN THIS YEAR’S PANTO ADVENTURE OF DICK WHITTINGTON!
Proper crafty Liam Rattagher and his dodgy brother Noel are conjuring up a masterplan to take over the world by making everything bland! Can our hero Dick Whittington put a stop to the baddies’ schemes and make Britannia cool again? Find out in this year’s show, full of laughter, mischief, and plenty of panto sparkle. Brought to you by the brilliant team who created Sleeping Beauty and Jack and the Beanstalk.
We’re giving you the chance to win a family ticket (4 people) for any off-peak performance of the Oxford Playhouse pantomime Dick Whittington. It’s the purrrrfect festive treat!
To enter, please visit our Facebook page @familiesoxfordshiremag where you will find the terms and conditions. Please like and share our competition post and follow our page. Good luck!
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11. Mastering the language of learning
13. School Spotlights
17. Don’t be afraid to ask about bursaries
18. Clubs & Classes
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Young Engineers Oxford STEM after school Clubs Powered by LEGO® * Where Future Engineers Begin
Unlock the magic of engineering through hands-on builds with LEGO®! Our after-school STEM Club turns play into powerful learning boosting creativity, logic, and teamwork. Led by real engineers, it's the perfect launchpad for curious minds aged 6–12+ Science. Technology. Engineering. Fun! Perfect for schools passionate about innovation.
and Lego®
Loved by kids. Endorsed by top schools across Oxford Book your school today! oxford@youngengineers.org oxford.youngengineers.org Call 07748 417074
Open-air festival of imagination
Cranford’s Junior School Day of Discovery returns Saturday, 9 November, as the school transforms into an open-air festival of imagination, with sights and sounds to inspire young children of all ages. The free community event has grown in popularity across the years with entertaining themes from Explorers, Dinosaurs, Wings & Wheels, Space and more. Now in its ninth iteration, this Day of Discovery is set to be the biggest yet! www.cranfordschool.co.uk
Heritage Open Days celebrates diversity
England’s largest festival of history and culture returns from 12 to 21 September with thousands of free events and experiences.
This year Heritage Open Days will focus on England’s diverse architectural heritage. From historic houses to factories, museums to music halls, formal gardens to graveyards, places, spaces and communities across the country will again host hundreds of free events this autumn.
There will be plenty of free interactive activities for children including dressing up, craft, 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.
New events will be added to the festival directory every day. More info: www.heritageopendays.org.uk
Visit the Family Learning Festival
The Family Learning Festival which runs from 5 October to 3 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 in your community that your family can participate in.
Find a local Family Learning Festival event, visit www.familylearningfestival.com and use the interactive map
Finance expert warns parents missing out on up to £2,000
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: www.gov.uk/tax-free-childcare
Making maths fun with Mathnasium
Inspire Young Minds with STEM LEGO®* Clubs by Young Engineers Oxford!
Young Engineers operates engineering after school activities in over 50 countries. Their mission is to prepare 4-15 year old students for the changing demands of the 21st century workforce. Young Engineers has been recognized by the Harvard School of Education in the European Union Commission.
“We were looking for a unique activity for our school, which provided more than out of hours childcare. We contacted Young Engineers Oxford about their specialist programs, combining engineering with Lego®*. Their blend of education and entertainment have delighted our children! Qualified instructors/engineers turn up with the equipment, setup and are ready to go! Their system make it easy for parents to book.”- Local Oxfordshire Headteacher.
Trusted by top Oxford schools for 6-12+ yr olds such as Dragon, New College, Bladon Primary and Summerfields to name a few. If you’re a teacher, head, or parent get in touch to set it up at your school. All you need is a classroom/space and a regular slot. email: oxford@youngengineers.org www.oxford.youngengineers.org Tel: 07748 417074
*LEGO®-style blocks may be used to aid learning.
Where children are empowered to achieve excellent in maths. Build a strong mathematics foundation through customised maths tutoring plans and face to face instructions in centre.
“My son has made massive progress in maths since he started. The best part is that he enjoys it and looks forward to going. The managers are super helpful and keep my son’s progress under close supervision. Many thanks for making maths enjoyable for my son”.
For decades the Mathnasium Method™ has transformed the way children learn maths. Building a foundation for maths mastery through deep understanding by starting with what they already know, addressing any learning gaps, expanding their mathematical thinking, and adding new concepts in sequence. This proprietary method works for students of all ages and skill levels, whether they’re struggling in maths, doing okay but could be doing better, or are already excelling but need more of a challenge. When children see what they can achieve because of their proficiency in maths, it can alter the course of their entire lives.
Book a free assessment today www.info.mathnasium.co.uk/ northoxford
AUTUMN FUN AT THE NORTH WALL
This Autumn, The North Wall in Oxford has an exciting programme of events lined up for families – offering a chance to see high-quality shows from some of the UK’s premiere touring theatre companies, as well as opportunities to get creative.
From 27 – 28 September, don’t miss Tiny Ideas, Oxford’s early years arts festival, which takes place in arts venues across the city.
On Saturday at The North Wall, explorers Alpha, Betty and Gammo are back in The Time Seekers, an interactive journey through time for ages 3-8. Ever dreamed of seeing a real dinosaur, or meeting a Roman or an Ancient Egyptian? Don’t miss this show which explores the people and places of our past and future with songs, humour and lots of audience interaction.
Sunday shifts focus to new parents and babies: A Tale of Us celebrates the wonder, joys and challenges of becoming a new parent, whilst next door in the studio, Parents Power Hour is a chance for parents and carers to reconnect to themselves and their creativity.
Kicking off October half term, The Paper Dolls is an unmissable adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s beloved picture book. This gentle puppet show celebrates the joys of imagination and the importance of family – perfect for ages 3-8.
There will also be workshops in stage combat and musical theatre for ages 8 and above during the half term break. Full bursary places are available.
Tickets from £8. Visit thenorthwall.com to find out more.
The importance of music in child development
‘Music is a more potent instrument than any other for education because rhythm and harmony find their way into the inward places of the soul.’
This quote, often attributed to Plato, highlights the profound impact of music on a child’s emotional and intellectual development, emphasising its ability to engage the soul in a way that other subjects may not. A core creative subject, it fosters creativity, engagement, cognitive and emotional skills, social skills and self-esteem. Excellent music education opens opportunities that stay with children and shape their lives. Playing a key role in brain development and impacting various areas of cognitive function, music engages both sides of the brain, thereby improving learning and memory, as well as supporting language acquisition and literacy development. Songs with rhymes and repetition help develop vocabulary and phonemic awareness. Listening to music and melodies exposes children to a wider range of words and phrases and trains memory skills and recall. Did you know that music is the only thing that stimulates your entire brain? When children can’t hear you because they are concentrating on something else, try singing to them!
Music can have a huge impact on a child’s social and emotional development. It allows children to express their emotions creatively, which may be difficult to articulate through
words alone. As Hans Christian Andersson wrote: ‘Where words fail, music speaks.’ This emotional outlet works on developing empathy and emotional intelligence. In addition, exposure to music has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety in children. It creates a calming, positive and engaging environment that enhances overall mental well-being and readiness to learn.
Touching hearts and minds, music is a cornerstone of the broad and balanced education that every child should receive; it celebrates and challenges, it connects and moves us. In the same way that we teach children literacy and numeracy to prepare them for adult life, we must give them the musical tools they need for a lifetime of musicmaking and enjoyment. For some, music will be the foundation of a career in one of the country’s most important and globallyrecognised industries. For others, it will provide experiences and skills which develop their creativity. For many, music will simply be a source of joy, comfort and companionship throughout their lives.
POSITIVE EFFECTS OF MUSIC ON THE BRAIN Music offers children a unique lens through which to explore cultures, traditions and even history, helping broaden their perspective and understanding of the world around them.
Musical rhythms introduce basic mathematical concepts, for example sequencing and analysing patterns. Research
Little Angel Theatre &
By Lisa Wander and Catherine Noble
shows a strong correlation between musical training and improved mathematical abilities.
Activities like clapping, dancing and playing musical instruments require the integration of hand, eye and auditory co-ordination which improves fine and gross motor skills.
Musical improvisation, composition and interpretation all foster innovative thinking and problem-solving skills, crucial for overall intellectual growth.
Performing music nurtures self-confidence and provides a sense of achievement, particularly when children have the opportunity to perform in front of an audience.
Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www.emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with the insights, skills and tools needed to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.
For ages 3-8 Sat 25 Oct 1.30pm & 3.30pm Sun 26 Oct 10.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm
Production Tickets: £12 (child £8, under 2s free) 01865 319450 / thenorthwall.com South Parade, Oxford OX2 7JN
What’s
Things to do, places to go and fun to be had for kids of all ages in
Oxfordshire
Adventure Play
WHEN: Open daily
WHERE: Blenheim Palace, Woodstock
Adventure Play is a hidden world, where mini explorers of all ages create their own exciting stories. Explore the amazing network of tunnels, bridges, cargo nets and hidden chambers. Under 3s go free. www.blenheimpalace.com
Farm Fun and More
WHEN: 9.30- 5.00pm
WHERE: Cogges Manor Farm, Witney
Adventure play fort, family fun, craft demos with the living history re-enactment group and lots more. See sheep, Shetland ponies, goats, turkeys, chickens, cockerels, ducks, rabbits and guinea pigs. Explore the historic manor house, walled kitchen garden, orchard and meadows. From £7.50; Under 3s go free. www.cogges.org.uk
Family Days Out
WHEN: Open daily
WHERE: Waterperry Gardens, Near Wheatley
Families with young children are always welcome here! Children are encouraged to enjoy the magic of the gardens and explore nature in new ways. Children’s trails are open during the school holidays. Keep an eye open for child-friendly theatre shows on the website. www.waterperrygardens.co.uk
Arboretum Adventures for Under-5s
WHEN: 10 Sept, 10.30-12.00pm
WHERE: Harcourt Arboretum, Oxford
Sensory activities, natural crafts, messy play and stories. Please note that the activities take place outdoors so remember to dress for the weather. £7 per child. Book in advance. www.obga.ox.ac.uk
The Time Seekers
WHEN: 27 Sept, 11.00 & 2.00
FUN FAMILY DAYS
WHEN: Every Saturday, 10am -12pm, 12.30-2.30 or 3pm-5pm
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre, Headington
Curious kids can get hands-on in the Centre’s Exploration Zone (2-hour session) with over 20 exhibits, and outdoors with woodland trails and Explorer Backpacks. Access to the woodland and outdoor areas all day. Visitor Cafe & picnic areas available. £8.50 per person. Under 3s free. www.scienceoxford.com
Heritage Diesel Days
WHEN: 3, 10, 17 & 24 Sept
WHERE: Didcot Railway Centre Unlimited rides available behind historic Diesel Locomotives or in the GWR Diesel Railcar (subject to availability). Check the Locomotive Roster to see what the venue expects to be running on the date of your visit. www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk
Limited Run Days
WHEN: 13-14, 20-21, 27-28 Sept
WHERE: Didcot Railway Centre
Travel back in time to savour the sights, sounds and smells of the golden age of the Great Western Railway while you explore the 21-acre living railway museum. www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk
The Goose and Mrs Frost
WHEN: 27 Sept, 11.00 & 2.00
WHERE: Oxford Playhouse
Join the Goose and Mrs Frost in this live-action show which includes imaginative puppetry and exquisitely illustrated paper theatre to tell a heart-warming story about the transformative power of kindness. From £9.50. Age 3- 6 years. www.oxfordplayhouse.com
Fun Palace
WHEN: 4 Oct, 11.00-3.00
WHERE: Oxford Playhouse
Join Oxford Playhouse for the perfect family day out! This year’s theme is codebreaking, with puzzles and challenges. Drop in for free activities with crafts and ideas to take home and share with your friends and community. Free. 5- 11 years. www.oxfordplayhouse.com
Apple Weekend 2025
WHEN: 4-5 Oct
WHERE: Waterperry Gardens, Near Wheatley
Sample and buy many different types of apple juices. Advice and information on growing, planting, apple identification and selecting trees and rootstock will be freely available. Tours £4.50 per adult or free with garden entrance and for season ticket holders. www.waterperrygardens.co.uk
WHERE: The North Wall Arts Centre, Oxford Following on from the success of The Star Seekers, comes a brand-new mission! Alph, Betty and Gammo return with a journey through history to explore the people and places of our past and future with songs, humour and lots of audience interaction. From £8 Under 2s go free. Age 3-8 years. www.thenorthwall.com
HALLOWEEN TRAIL
WHEN: 23 Oct-2 Nov, 4.00-9.00pm
WHERE: Blenheim Palace
Visit Blenheim, if you dare, with friends and family as dusk falls. Enjoy the family fun on their Spooky Illuminated Trail. If you’re after spooky fun or just a hint of Halloween magic, this trail has something for everyone. From £16.50, Under 2s go free. www.blenheimpalace.com
The Paper Dolls
WHEN: 25-26 Oct
WHERE: The North Wall Arts Centre, Oxford
A little girl cuts out a string of paper dolls, then takes them by the hand to go on a fantastical adventure. This play is based on The Paper Dolls book, written by Julia Donaldson. From £10. www.thenorthwall.com
Camera and Photography family drop in
WHEN: 29 Oct, 1.00-3.00pm
WHERE: History of Science Museum, Oxford
Families are invited to discover the history of photography.
Get close up to historic cameras and trace the development of the technology over the last 200 years. Collection includes Lewis Carroll’s camera. Free entry. Age 6+. www.hsm.ox.ac.uk
Ghost Fest: Potion Making
WHEN: Half Term 10, 12, 2.30pm
WHERE: Oxford Castle & Museum
Become Merlin’s apprentice in the Castle Crypt this Halloween to make two magical drinkable potions and a wand. From £2. www.oxfordcastleandprison. co.uk
Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show
WHEN: 28-29 Oct
WHERE: Oxford Playhouse
A show full of music, adventure and surprises for little ones! The whole family are busy getting ready for the new arrival. Peppa Pig, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig & George all need your help to get everything ready before the big day. From £14.00. Age 3+. www.oxfordplayhouse.com
October Half Term at Museum of Oxford
Unlock the Past!
WHEN: 25 Oct, 10am- 4pm
FREE family fun day celebrating MOX’S birthday! Step back into Oxford’s past and meet amazing characters including the legendary St Frideswide and Civil War soldiers. Become an archaeologist with Dr Digby Rocks’ hands-on workshop- what artefacts will you find?! Plus Saxon coin striking and pottery, object handling and more! Price: Free, drop-in. Age: 5+
Exploring Sound with Science Oxford
WHEN: 27 Oct, 10.30-11.30am, 12.30-1.30pm, 2-3pm
A fun-filled interactive session exploring how we make, hear and use sound… and most importantly how we can enjoy it! Learn all about the different elements of sound, listen to familiar and unfamiliar noises, and build up a picture to describe the sounds in the world around you. From £10, Ages 5-11
Spook-tacular Sculptures: Make Your Own Gargoyle!
FAM JAM
WHEN: 30 Oct, 11am-12pm, 1-2pm, 2.30-3.30pm
Be inspired by the grotesque guardians of Oxford’s buildings and make your own clay monster to take home! Wings or scales, lizard tongues or pointy teeth… what will your gargoyle look like?! £3. Age 5+
WHEN: 31 Oct, 11-12pm, 2-3pm
Come join us at the Museum of Oxford for creative movement activities and sensory play, all in a fun party atmosphere! This workshop is part of Dancin’ Oxford’s Family Dance Festival. £3, Under 5s
MUSEUMOFOXFORD.ORG
THE SPOOKTASTIC HALLOWEEN SHOW
WHEN: 30 Oct,11.30am & 2.30pm
WHERE: The Kenton Theatre, Henley-on-Thames
The most epic Halloween party in town! A fast paced, action-packed show full of classic panto-style mayhem. It’s Halloween fun like you’ve never seen before! Adult £10; Child £12. www.thekenton.org.uk
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SUNDAYS
WHEN: Every Sunday, 2-4pm
WHERE: Museum of Natural History, Oxford Make Sunday afternoons a time for naturethemed activity backpacks, crafts, family-friendly trails, and more! Free event, no booking required. www.oumnh.ox.ac.uk
Mastering the language of learning
How many times have you found yourself in a standoff 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 with 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 mind set 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.
By Zuzu Jordan
PRACTISE POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS
Affirmations such as ‘I don’t give up easily’ or ‘I can work this out’ help 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 them engaged and curious.
GIVING CHILDREN FEEDBACK ON THEIR WORK
As parents, we naturally want to know our child is doing well at school. Homework often provides the clearest window into their learning. When we support them, we’re also giving feedback, sometimes without realising it.
The language we use matters. Focus on their effort, improvements and what they’ve done well. Be specific and encouraging. If needed, gently suggest how they can improve, using kind and constructive language. Thoughtfully worded feedback boosts confidence, builds motivation and helps children feel supported in their learning.
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 eighteen years and is Director of Arnett International. For FREE resources and tips, find her on Instagram @edumate_uk
CREATING A SAFE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AT HOME
Parents play a vital role in making learning feel safe and supportive. Start by creating a calm, distractionfree 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.
d’Overbroeck’s School
d’Overbroeck’s is Oxford’s leading coeducational day and boarding school for students aged 11-18, offering a dynamic and supportive environment where individuality is celebrated.
At d’Overbroeck’s, we focus on more than just academic excellence - we help students discover their passions, build confidence, and develop a true sense of purpose. Our students thrive because they’re happy, engaged, and doing what they love. This supportive atmosphere leads to outstanding academic results and prepares them for life at top universities and beyond.
Oxford High School
Oxford High Prep School GDST is a progressive, global and award-winning independent girls’ school based in North Oxford. The unique curriculum is designed to nurture confidence, curiosity and spark, so that our girls can be successful learners and build a strong foundation for exciting futures ahead.
We offer a broad and exciting curriculum with specialist teaching in Music, Art, PE, Science and Mandarin from Key Stage 1 to ensure that our pupils not only fulfil their potential but go beyond it. A wide range of sporting and co-curricular activities is
Manor Prep School
The Manor Prep School in Abingdon is an exceptional independent co-educational day school that welcomes boys and girls aged 2-11. The Manor offers a happy and varied learning experience in a down-to-earth setting with superb, purpose-built facilities. The School encourages all children to adopt a ‘have a go’ attitude and to embrace different lessons, activities and experiences with an open mind. We believe that happy, enthused children will get the most out of their learning and our outstanding academic
Our dedicated teachers foster meaningful partnerships with students, built on trust and mutual respect. Through personalised learning and encouragement, students become independent thinkers - curious, motivated, and ready to embrace their futures.
Join a school where each student’s unique path is celebrated, and success is defined not just by grades, but by confidence, creativity, and ambition.
Open day: Saturday 4th October
Email: registrar@doverbroecks.com
Telephone: 01865 688600
Website: www.doverbeocks.com
available, alongside our wrap around care operating from 7.30am to 6pm alongside a variety of popular after school clubs. Providing outstanding pastoral care and support for students is one of our core values. We welcome parents’ involvement in school life and enhance this through good communications based on our common aim to do the best for the girls.
Open day: Prep and Pre-Prep: Tuesday 7th October
Email: admissions@oxf.gdst.net
Telephone: 01865 515647/ 558279
Website: www.oxfordhigh.gdst.net
results demonstrate this; in 2025, 30% of our Year 6 children were offered a Senior School Scholarship or Award. Find out more by visiting www.manorprep.org, where you can book to attend one of our next open events or arrange a private visit to see how every child is challenged, cherished and inspired to reach their potential.
Open day: Saturday 27th September
Email: admissions@manorprep.org Website: www.manorprep.org Telephone: 01235 858458
Christ Church Cathedral School
Founded by Henry VIII, Christ Church Cathedral School (CCCS) is a hidden gem in central Oxford, for boys aged 3-13 and girls aged 3-7. Included among our pupils are the distinctive Christ Church Cathedral Choristers, who can be seen crossing the road in their Wolsey caps and capes. Housed in 16th Century buildings steeped in history, it’s a special place, where children’s happiness and development are at the heart of everything. Starting in our Montessoristyle Nursery, our pupils develop a love of learning that covers not just academics, but an exceptional musical environment, as well
as sport, art and drama.
We pride ourselves on preparing our pupils for a range of future schools, with many achieving academic and music awards.
Open Days
As a small school, CCCS is renowned for its family-oriented approach and close co-operation between parents and staff. Contact us to register for an Open Event or request an individual tour.
Open day: Saturday 13th September from 9.30am
Email: registrar@cccs.org.uk Website: www.cccs.org.uk Telephone: 01865 242561
Cranford House
Cranford is a leading co-educational independent day school for boys and girls aged 3-18 years. An established fully co-educational school, pupils thrive where the attention to each individual pupil and their teaching and learning needs is second to none. With an excellent reputation for providing pupils with a balanced, allround education within a warmly nurturing environment. Set in rural South Oxfordshire in the heart of Moulsford village, the small class sizes, close community and committed staff ensure each pupil is ably supported and challenged to achieve their full potential. The school was rated as ‘Excellent’ in all
Cokethorpe School
Set in 150-acres of glorious parkland, nestled on the edge of the Cotswolds and just a stone’s throw from cosmopolitan Oxford sits Cokethorpe School. Covering the ages of four to eighteen, those in the Prep School benefit from access to a senior school’s facilities, with Cokethorpe Prep pupils embracing the many opportunities available to them.
The combination of the School’s researchinformed academic approach and the small class sizes the School maintains ensures a tailored educational experience supporting each pupil’s learning. And, as a Microsoft
Chandlings Prep
At Chandlings Prep, we champion childhood. We celebrate each child’s uniqueness, nurturing their potential in a warm and supportive environment. Beyond academics, 60 acres of explorable grounds, over 60 extra-curricular activities, an exceptional sports program, and inspiring arts ignite a love for learning. Dedicated teachers guide every child, in small classes, to discover their passions and thrive. The result? Joyful days filled with laughter, discovery, and a strong sense of belonging. We prepare them not only for academic success but also for life’s exciting journey ahead.
categories in its latest ISI Inspection. With a new Sixth Form Centre, the school offers 20+ A-level subject choices and an extensive cocurricular programme.
At Cranford, the aim is to encourage pupils to achieve their full potential, becoming motivated, confident and happy individuals, recognising the importance of respect and support for others, but ready to seize life’s opportunities
Open day: Saturday 11th October 9.30am12pm
Email: admissions@cranfordschool.co.uk Telephone: 01491 651218 Website: www.cranfordschool.co.uk
Showcase School, Cokethorpe is recognised as a leading school for the applications of technology in the classroom.
Beyond the classrooms, pupils benefit from access to many opportunities across extensive facilities, which include everything from climbing towers and clay pigeon shooting, to performance spaces and a boathouse on the River Thames.
Open day: Saturday 4 October from 9.30am
Email: admissions@cokethorpe.org
Telephone: 01993 703921
Website: www.cokethorpe.org
Our Pre-Prep department consists of Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 and The Prep Department consists of four year groups: Year 3 (7 - 8 years), Year 4 (8 - 9 years), Year 5 (9 -10 years), and Year 6 (10 -11 years). There are 2 or 3 classes in each year group, with an average of 16 pupils in each class.
Open day: Saturday 20th September 10am - 12pm
Email: office@chandlings.org.uk
Website: www.chandlings.org.uk Telephone: 01865 730771
Cothill School
Cothill is one of the UK’s leading prep schools, set in wonderful grounds just a short drive from Oxford. For over 150 years we have been a successful boys’ boarding school, and this year we are delighted to welcome girls for the very first time. Families can also now choose full boarding, flexi or day places, offering the flexibility to suit every child. We focus on academics, music, drama and sport, whilst never losing sight of what makes Cothill unique: a home away from home where children are given the freedom to be children. With outdoor
adventures, games and laughter at the heart of daily life, we nurture confidence and curiosity for the next stage of their future. Nearly half our leavers progress to Eton and Radley and other leading schools such as Winchester, Harrow, Marlborough, Oundle, Stowe, Sherborne, St. Edward’s and Abingdon.
Open Days
Open day: Saturday 27th September
Email: pjohnson@cothill.org.uk
Website: cothill.org.uk Telephone: 01865 966091
DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK ABOUT BURSARIES
My husband and I have always been committed to state education. We both thrived at state school and believed our son, Freddy would too. Besides, school fees were out of the question.
So how did it happen that Freddy actually ended up being educated privately?
The answer is, by chance. At the time Freddy was offered his state school place, I was providing marketing expertise to a small pre-prep school - the equivalent of an infant school. I met with this school the day after Freddy got offered his state school place - our sixth choice of state school - and happened to mention this in the meeting. His state school place was at a very large school and we immediately felt that Freddy, an only child, reserved and more comfortable with adults than children, would feel overwhelmed.
I was astonished to receive an email from this pre-prep school a few days later asking whether I would be interested in a fully funded school place for Freddy! Nothing like this had ever happened to myself or my husband before. We are not people who are serendipitously in the ‘right place at the right time’-we never even win anything in raffles! Despite our principles, we felt that this offer was too good to miss.
Did we have reservations? Yes. We weren’t sure if our son would ‘fit in’ (or whether we would). What would happen when he turned 8 and returned to the state system? Would he get a place? The school reassured us that there was every likelihood that Freddy would take the 7+ (an exam I was hardly aware of) and that we would find a prep school willing to help assist us financially at the next stage too.
Freddy thrived at this small school and received offers from four schools at 7+. Taking the advice of his school, we discussed financial assistance with each. Disclosing our income at one school, we were asked: ‘Is that each?’ It wasn’t. It dawned on us that perhaps you didn’t have to have an exceptionally low income to be considered for a partial
By Tanya Freeman
A partial bursary was offered at the prep school we all preferred where Freddy had an absolutely fabulous four years, taking advantage of the many opportunities on offer and making firm friends. It was only when it was time to consider secondary school choices that we realised that we had, without really noticing, quietly been assimilated into the private school system and that we would like to explore whether Freddy could continue this journey.
Luckily, Freddy is academic and got offered places at a number of schools; luckily, the school we all preferred offered bursaries; again we were accepted, this time via a much more formal process which involved scrutiny of our income and expenditure in reasonable detail. Even so, we were astonished to actually be asked by the independent financial assessor what percentage of bursary we would like!
Many of our peers, who are earning comfortably above the average UK family income but can’t afford school fees (at least not in their entirety), don’t realise that a private school bursary could be an option for them too. So my advice to anyone unhappy with their state school offer or wanting to cast the school net a little wider, is: ‘don’t be afraid to ask.’ The old adage, if you don’t ask, you don’t get has never been more appropriate.
BURSARY ESSENTIALS
Roughly one in three children at an independent school is on some form of fee “remission” and private schools actively canvass for bursary applications. It’s not just senior schools that offer them; plenty of prep schools do too.
A bursary may be taken away if your financial circumstances significantly improve or you might be granted one if you fall on hard times.
A bursary is not a scholarship. Scholarships are awarded to especially talent children but are rarely worth more than 10% of fees.
Tanya Freeman is a writer and mother of Freddy, living in London.
THE PROCESS OF APPLYING
Research local private schools that offer bursaries. Don’t be afraid to call their Admissions offices and ask if you see nothing on the school website.
Ask schools you are interested in about bursaries two years before you need one and prepare to be means tested.
Start your private school journey as early as possible-don’t wait for senior school as it can be hard for children to catch up.
Art Classes
WHEN: Daily
WHERE: art-K, Oxford
art-K’s Children’s Art Course helps them explore 2D and 3D mediums to cover a wide range of techniques. Participants will do clay tile projects, watercolours, inks and much more. www.art-k.co.uk
Chinnor RFC Rugby Skills Camps
WHEN: From September
WHERE: Chinnor Rugby Club, Thame
Weekly classes include: Junior Rugby, U6-18 Wednesdays and Sundays; Touch Rugby, all welcome on Fridays, 7 - 8.30pm; Walking Rugby, all welcome on Fridays 7 - 8.00pm; SEND Rugby, Sundays 10 - 11.00am. www.chinnor-rfc.com
Gymnastics Classes
WHEN: Daily
WHERE: NOX Gymnastics Club, Witney
Classes offered for different ages and abilities. Classes include Parent and toddler Group, Stay and Play, Young Beginners, Beginners, Intermediate, Advanced, Additional Needs Club, Parkour/Freestyle, Tumbling and more.
www.noxgymnastics.com
SCHOOL HOLIDAY CAMPS
Brick building Lego workshops for children with Master Builders Club
WHEN: Mon 27 Oct: 11 - 1pm & 2.30 - 4.30pm
WHERE: The Story Museum, Oxford
Go along for a creative adventure in a pop-up playroom with 1000’s of LEGO breaks, Minifigures and LEGO components. Immersive brick building experience for LEGO fans aged 5+. Theme TBC. www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk
Nature Club
WHEN: Sat 20 Sept & Sat 11 Oct, 10.00am-11.30am, 12.30pm2.00pm & 3.00pm-4.30pm
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre Try natureinspired creative activities at indooroutdoor planetfriendly session. Includes access to the woodland and outdoor areas all day. Visitor Cafe & picnic areas. £15 ticket includes child & adult, £5 additional tickets. Ages 5-9 & adult.
www.scienceoxford.com
Maths Tuition
WHEN: Monday - Thursday, 3.30 - 7pm & Saturdays 10am - 2pm
WHERE: Mathnasium Learning Centres, Summertown, North Oxford By producing a tailor-structured learning plan for each student according to his/her knowledge and skill level, the Mathnasium Method can help children in Years 2 - 12 better understand maths and leap ahead. Try the FREE maths skills assessment/trial session. 01865 655968 www.mathnasium.co.uk/ northoxford
Oxfordshire Music School
WHEN: Mondays-Saturdays
WHERE: Abingdon, Didcot, Wallingford, Wantage, Witney
A variety of musical opportunities on offer including 1-to-1 guitar, bass and drum lessons, Kids’ Guitar Club, Teens’ Guitar Club, Band Buddies and Band Sessions. Adult classes offered too. www.oxfordshiremusicschool.co.uk
Oxfordshire Tennis
WHEN: Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays
WHERE: Goring Tennis Club, Cranford School & St Andrew’s in Berkshire
Sessions are designed to enable children to develop skills at their own pace. The Monday AfterSchool Tennis Club provides a fun session for children of Years 1-6. www.oxfordshiretennis.co.uk
Saturday Hoops Football
WHEN: Saturdays 9-10am, term time only
WHERE: Oxford City FC ground, Suitable from beginner upwards, these sessions are fun, active and perfect as an introduction to football or for those wanting some extra training each week. For boys and girls aged 4 - 8 years. Pre booking is essential! www.ignitesportuk.com
Science Club
WHEN: Sat 6 Sept & Sat 4 Oct, 10-11.30am, 12.30pm-2pm or 3-4.30pm
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre
Try fun science-inspired activities with a creative theme each month at this hands-on session with Science Oxford’s expert leaders. Includes access to the woodland and outdoor areas all day. Visitor Cafe & picnic areas. £15 ticket includes child & adult, £5 additional tickets. Ages 5-9 & adult. www.scienceoxford.com
Wildcat Girls Football with Ignite Sport
WHEN: Saturdays 9am to 10am, term time only
WHERE: Oxford City FC ground
Suitable from beginner upwards, these sessions are fun, active and perfect as an introduction to football or for those wanting some extra training each week. For girls aged 5-11 years. Pre booking essential! www.ignitesportuk.com
Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes
WHEN: Wednesday to Saturday every week
WHERE: West Oxford, Abingdon, Didcot, Wallingford and Bicester
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. To book a FREE class visit www.perform.org.uk/try
YOUNG ENGINEERS OXFORD STEM AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS
WHERE: Schools across Oxford Unlock the magic of engineering through hands-on builds with LEGO®! This activity turns play into powerful learning - boosting creativity, logic and teamwork. Led by real engineers, it’s the perfect launchpad for curious minds aged 6 - 12+. www.oxford.youngengineers.org
HALF TERM
The North Wall Arts Centre: Musical Theatre
WHEN: 27-29 Oct, 9am-12pm
WHERE: Summertown, Oxford Fun-filled storytelling and characters as your child combines acting with singing and movement for an upbeat, musical workshop that’s a ‘triple-threat’!
There will be a sharing of work on the final day. £60 for three halfdays. Age 8-11. www.thenorthwall.com
Ignite Sport’s School Holiday Camps
WHEN: October Half Term
WHERE: Oxford City FC ground
Ignite Sports offer fun, safe and energy packed holiday camps during the school holidays. Activities include Football-Frenzy, Art Smash, Game Tech, Dance Fusion, Girls Only Football, Sparks, Multisport Camp, Fun Days and more. Age 4 - 16 years. www.ignitesportuk.com
HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE WITH MASTER BUILDERS CLUB
WHEN AND WHERE: 27 Oct: Badgemore Primary, Henley 9.3011.30; 28 Oct: The Heights Primary, Caversham 9.30-11.30; 28 Oct: Sonning Common Village Hall 2.30-4.30; 28 Oct: Standlake Village Hall, 9.30-11.30; 29 Oct: Reading Town Hall 11.30-1.30. The Master Builder has been called out to help fix one of the funfair rides in Bricksville, but when he arrives it seems he is going to need more than his toolbox. Join in on this BRICK or treat Halloween adventure and help solve the mystery with all the fun of the fair! Age 5+. www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk
Get back to school ready and schedule a free assessment at Mathnasium of
Makers of the Bold. For girls aged 4 – 19. Prep School Open Morning, 7th October 2025. oxfordhigh.gdst.net