Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
Courses for all the family in Edinburgh
As the children return to school and re-start their education for another year, perhaps this is also a good time for mums and dads to refresh their skills, challenge the grey matter and enrol on a course. Besides - you’re never too old – or young – to start learning!
Education for adults
Raising children is such an all-encompassing role that the notion of returning to study may seem understandably daunting for many parents. If you would like to refresh or update your skills, a return to study may be a tempting option. The routine and relaxed atmosphere of attending class, and the mental challenges involved will provoke interest and better equip you for an eventual return to work.
Learndirect offers affordable courses in vocational subjects such as business, management, IT and communications in addition to top up classes in maths and English. Some of the courses can be completed in just a few hours, at a pace to suit you whilst others are more in-depth and can lead to qualifications. For more information about Learndirect’s courses, qualifications and e-learning platform call 0845 034 0849 or go to www.learndirect.com
City and Guilds has developed hundreds of vocational qualifications across a variety of sectors that meet the needs of today’s workplace. Qualifications are delivered across more than 10,000 training centres and are widely recognised by employers. For more details go to www.cityandguilds.com/Courses-and-Qualifications
If you seek higher education, do remember many universities favour mature students – take a look at www.ucas.com/how-it-all-works/mature-students. Many universities offer distance learning courses similar to the Open University which may be a more favourable option for parents who want to work from the comfort of their own home in their own time. For details about the Open University go to www.open.ac.uk
Although the prospect of returning to work or embarking on a new course can seem daunting initially, these ideas and attendant web sites should provide you with endless opportunities for parents who welcome the positive change it makes to their life.
Education for children
What can I do to help make the learning process easier for my child?
Nourish the learning process by creating a quiet and clear work environment to make it easier for your child to establish a regular habit and undertake say, 10 to 20 minutes of homework, ideally straight after school. This approach is in favour of an arduous stretch of learning once in a while which may be too stressful and may be counter-productive in the long term. At such a young age, a child’s concentration levels may not stretch for much longer than 20 minutes. Research has shown that children are more receptive to learn the fundamentals of many subjects such as maths in small chunks. And the trick is simply to have plenty of practice!
Knowing how to teach a child is an exemplary skill that few possess so, many parents seek extra tuition from private tutors and education centres to supplement their learning at school. A good place to start looking for providers of out of school tuition is on these Primary Times pages. Or why not visit www.primarytimes.net for more ideas?
In need of inspiration? Here are some courses and classes in and around Edinburgh...
Edinburgh PCT Partnership can help you get back to work after a career break
The PCT Partnership’s highly successful 9 week part time course for Women returning to Work offers tuition and 1-1 feedback on CV writing, completing application forms and preparing for job interviews, as well as updating IT skills. The course will also re-introduce prospective women to today's working environment and gives guidance and support in finding a job.
Courses are funded by Skills Development Scotland and are free if you live in Edinburgh and the Lothians and have been away from work for 13 weeks or more. The next course starts on 30 September 2013. For information call The PCT Partnership on 0131 622 6240 or email training@thepctpartnership.co.uk
Weekly drama classes in East Lothian
East Lothian Youth Theatre offers East Lothian residents aged 3 – 18 the opportunity to take part in weekly drama classes during term time and an annual showcase performance at Brunton Theatre.
As well as developing a range of acting and performance skills, youth theatre members meet new people, build confidence and above all, have fun! Each class is run by experienced and qualified drama professionals who work as freelance performance artists and have a wealth of knowledge and talent which they enjoy sharing with their groups.
East Lothians Youth Theatre also includes Brunton Youth Theatre (BYT) which hosts auditions (for BYT Stage and Seniors) annually; dates and times will be posted online at www.bruntontheatre.co.uk and announced in the local press.
Classes are booked and paid for termly in advance at a cost of £3.50 (£2.80 Leisure Pass Plus), 5 – 7 years £2.50 (£2 Leisure Pass Plus) per session.
To find classes in your area and for more information or to request a booking form, contact East Lothian Youth Theatre at youththeatre@eastlothian.gov.uk or call 0131 665 9900
Stimulating, captivating activity at The Drama Studio
If you’re looking for an activity for young people that is highly stimulating, captures the imagination, boosts self-confidence, helps a child make new friends and is great fun, then creative drama may well be it!
The Drama Studio begins the new term on August 15th and offers after school and Saturday morning classes for children aged 4-17 in both independent venues and in school-based clubs in Edinburgh localities. Classes involve high quality drama with performance opportunities in most venues with exciting Teenage Theatre and Film Projects and a Casting Agency as well as very popular Children's Drama Parties. For further information visit the website www.thedramastudio.com or call 0131 453 3284
Edinburgh Young Musicians celebrates sixteen years of Saturday classes
Edinburgh Young Musicians begin their sixteenth year of Saturday morning classes on September 7th 2013 with over 300 pupils aged 3 to 17. Classes take place in the modern and spacious facilities at St. Thomas of Aquins’ High School in Chalmers Street near Tollcross, in central Edinburgh. Musical Play classes, for children in their final pre-school year and P1, are open to children with no musical experience, as are P2 Musical Workshop classes, which form a year’s course designed to prepare children to join one of EYM’s beginner instrumental classes or choir. String orchestras, recorder groups, chamber music, choir and musicianship classes are open to older children with suitable musical experience. To find out more go to www.e-y-m.org.uk or call 0131 226 3392.
Potter Around without the kids
While Potter Around is a wonderful place to take the kids, the crafts on offer are not just for the children! Many families collectively join in the fun – from pottery painting to decopatching, from clay modelling to oil painting – offering family members a great chance to compare results at the end. Plus, of course parents can return to Potter Around once the children have returned to school to relax and indulge in a little bit more creative activity. Every Wednesday there are drop in Jewellery workshops costing just £15 a session. Learn the basics, make a specific piece or rejuvenate an old piece. Also on Wednesday mornings from 10.30am -12.30pm there are knitting sessions costing just £4.50. Expert help is on hand if required or just go along for a knit and natter. Plus there are Potter's Wheel lessons run every Wednesday morning from 10.30am-12.30pm with Bernie Rowen - a potter with 25 years of experience. These sessions are ongoing at £40 a month with an extra charge for the amount of clay used and the number of firings. Every Thursday morning from 10.30am-12.30pm there is an Oil Painting Workshop costing £20 and no prior experience is necessary.
Also, Tuesday night is Ladies Night - 7.30-10pm - come and escape the household duties and the kids and paint pottery, decopatch, make jewellery or join in the knitting or any other workshop that might be on that evening.
Potter Around also run glass fusion workshops with an expert glass artist, felting workshops, pottery painting technique workshops, candle and lip balm making workshops usually on a monthly basis but on demand too. For details ring 01506 238 961
Add some sparkle to your child’s life
The Sparkle Arts creative approach to learning helps children develop through a fun mix of music, dance and drama, using fun props, such as colourful puppets, photographs and musical instruments. This gets everyone involved and gives young imaginations the opportunity to flourish.
For children aged 1-5, over four ten-week terms, Sparkle Arts bring 40 fascinating educational topics to life to facilitate the development of knowledge in a fun, playful, interactive way. Classes meet the 4 main aims of the curriculum for excellence, and are taught by professionally trained, highly experienced teachers. Classes take place in venues across Edinburgh and East Lothian, and in nurseries, playgroups and toddler groups.
Sparkle Arts also offer performing arts classes in primary schools, both during and after school. Classes are themed and structured to compliment the curriculum and stimulate learning, whilst developing creativity and the imagination. Visit www.sparklearts.co.uk to find out more and book a class.
Fun, fast, fencing for all
Fencing is fast, fun and action packed - it’s an exciting mix of athletic sport and tactical combat. Fencing is a great way to exercise both body and mind, and is ideal for children as it is safe, physically challenging, and great fun. Fencing helps develop good co-ordination, balance and flexibility; it’s a great way to keep fit for all ages and abilities. Edinburgh Fencing Club welcomes fencers of all ages and abilities, from young beginners to grizzled veterans, and from serious competitors to fun club fencer. Children’s and adult beginner classes are offered where coaches take participants through a warm-up, some footwork and of course, offer the chance to pick up a sword and try some fencing; so they’ll be fencing from the first night! So, if you're looking for a physical activity that's a little bit different, fencing might just be ideal. For more information visit www.edinburghfencingclub.co.uk
Mandarin Chinese tuition for all ages
It's great to learn a foreign language and the younger someone starts the easier it is. Mandarin Chinese is the most popular language in the world and is great to learn. China is a vast country with a fascinating history, culture and tourist attractions, not to mention exciting job opportunities. Chinese4you provides stimulating, high quality and fun lessons covering speaking and writing for all ages. The new classes for parents and children start on Friday 30th August at the Calton Centre; classes for 5-12 years start on Friday 13th September at South Side Community Centre. For more information visit www.chinese4you.co.uk or call 07796 643 386
Introducing ABRSM Music Medals
Portobello Music School is delighted to announce a new syllabus being introduced this year. The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) Music Medals is a syllabus designed to provide graded assessments to children learning instruments in groups, so is ideally suited to primary-aged children as it provides progressive steps from Primary 3 through to Primary 7. There are five progressive levels which take children from beginner to around Grade 4 level. In addition to these, Creative Music Classes for children aged birth to Primary 2 and a broad programme of instrumental classes and ensembles for children in Primary 3 and upwards - Portobello Music School is also excited to introduce a new instrument for P3 and 4 children interested in studying clarinet or saxophone. The Clarinéo offers an excellent introduction for younger players as it requires the same playing technique but is lighter, ideal for smaller fingers and is much more affordable than entry-level clarinets and saxophones.
For further information and/or to enrol for classes starting this term, please visit www.portobellomusicschool.com or call 0131 669 1120
Dance! The many benefits of ballet to an adult
Have you ever looked at a ballet dancer with a mild touch of envy? Well, don’t - it is not too late to start. And there are so many reasons why this form of dance is fantastically good for you.
Ballet not only strengthens the body, but it strengthens the mind as well. Exercises at the barre and in the centre create long, lean muscles that support the joints, whilst challenging the mind by asking the body to move in ways it is unaccustomed to. Add to that, it is beautiful and it is expressive.
Lyn Fitzsimons not only has the dance training and years of performance and teaching experience, but she has the warmth and encouragement that make the classes a great way to learn, exercise, unwind and have fun. Why not give it a try - you may find a new passion… To find out more about The Ballet Schools, Scotland call 07817 439 686 or email: info@theballetschools.co.uk or go to
http://www.theballetschools.co.uk
Free Open Taster Day at Razzamataz Theatre School
Razzamataz Theatre School is running an open day on Saturday 24th August from 10am - 12pm to give any potential new students aged 4-17 the opportunity to experience a taste of its sessions before its new term commences on Saturday 31st August. Places must be booked in advance so do call 01283 814 092 or email: edinburgh@razzamataz.co.uk. Razzamataz Theatre School has been running in Edinburgh for over 7 years and offers excellent training in dance, drama and singing in musical theatre and pop/commercial styles for 4-18 year olds. The school aims to provide top class tuition in a fun yet safe environment. Classes generally run term time on a Saturday with various times and availability. For further details visit www.razzamataz.co.uk
Take the plunge with Swimming Nature
Swimming Nature teaches children from the age of three how to swim with in-water instructors supporting and encouraging them throughout the lesson. There are just two pupils per teacher and each child is matched to another of the same age and ability. A special progressive programme only teaches correct strokes and water confidence. On average, children are swimming front and back crawl by the age of seven. Classes are available at: George Watsons College, Spirit Health Club and The Royal High School. For details about the swimming programmes call 0844 504 0506 or email info@swimmingnature.co.uk or go to www.swimmingnature.com
Exciting, energetic and creative classes with Edinburgh Ballet
Specialising in Classical Ballet, Edinburgh Ballet offers quality tuition by experienced and qualified teachers. Regardless of whether a child is dancing for fun or holds a view to pursuing a career in dance, all pupils are encouraged to achieve their highest potential. Classes are exciting, energetic and creative, and include RAD Ballet, Modern Jazz, Adult Ballet and Pilates. Beginners of all ages (from 18 months) are welcome and there are RAD Ballet Examinations and Class Awards taken at the appropriate levels. Join now to be part of the next annual performance! For class schedules and information visit the new website at www.edinburgh-ballet.co.uk or email: info@edinburgh-ballet.co.uk or call 07723 580 280
Transition Time – Back to school...
The start of the school year is a mixture of excitement and apprehension. Most children move onto a new teacher, relocation means some have moved schools and for others it is transition from primary to secondary. For some it is going back to a situation where they have to face peers with whom they may have issues and there may be a preconception that their new teacher ‘shouts’ or ‘is really strict’. It can unleash the imagination to be on high alert. Kids NLP Scotland offers individual sessions where children need support to develop their self esteem, build their resilience, overcome anxieties or fears. Kids NLP Scotland recognises each child as an individual and its approach is to address the impact of the underlying issue by helping the child to use their brain more skilfully. Parent consultations and workshops are also available. To find out more go to www.kidsnlpscotland.co.uk or email Karen@kidsnlpscotland.co.uk or call 07837 930 714
The Creation Station adds a little bit of ‘magic’ to children
The Creation Station in Livingston and West Calder offers weekly arts and crafts sessions for children aged 4 months – 5 years during term time and also fabulous holiday sessions for children up to 11 years. A variety of exciting activities using all manner of tools and equipment are offered including songs, games, laughter and friendship, not to mention a little bit of ‘magic’ – this is a winning combination loved by children and adults alike. The Creation Station is passionate about inspiring a child’s imagination and sessions are aimed to nurture their creativity in a safe and fun environment without any mess to clear up at home! For more details call 0844 874 7343 or email gemmagough@thecreationstation.co.uk
Healthy, happy bodies and minds with Step It Up Dance
Step It Up Dance offer energetic, fun urban dance classes where children learn new dance skills, as well as developing their creativity and self-confidence. Its range of classes suit tots from age 18 months upwards, to Hip Hop and Breakdance Academy classes for primary-age children, family classes and even adults. All Step It Up Dance teachers are highly qualified and passionate about passing their skills on to the next generation of super-cool urban dancers!
Step It Up Dance also run hugely popular parties for tots to teens - from creative dance parties for children aged 3 - 5 to urban dance and cheerleading parties for kids aged from 5 upwards. All parties are meticulously planned to ensure children of all ages are kept engaged, involved and have fun! Details on all of the classes, as well as the timetable, online booking, video clips, photos and more can be found at www.stepitupdance.co.uk.
At a cross-roads in your career?
It is common to find your old job doesn’t fit with your family. If you are “going round the roundabout” in your head wondering whether to change career, start a business or be a full time mum it can be confusing.
Anna Davis from Balanced Mum offers career coaching over six sessions which provides the space and time you deserve to think about what’s really important to you. Your options are explored and, using a structured approach and a career choice tool, Anna can help you reach a decision and create a plan. You can take the course on your own for individual attention or as part of a small group. For more details ring Anna Davis on 07764 235 394 or go to www.BalancedMum.Com
Mum can we have ‘dalek’ (garlic) bread for tea?
Auditory Processing difficulties (APD) affect the way in which the brain processes auditory information. It is not that the child cannot hear, they cannot process information they hear in the same way as others do. As a parent, you may have had their hearing checked and told it is within normal range but they cannot follow instructions or concentrate. The cause of APD may result from recurrent ear infections in a child such as glue ear, developmental delays that cause difficulties with the central nervous system and then impact on the processing of auditory information. Kb-Insights utilises a specialist audiology test to establish if APD is an underlying factor. For information on the full range of services offered go to www.Kb-Insights.co.uk or call 07387 930 714 or email karen@kb-insights.co.uk
Power Plating with babies takes off at Studio EH1
Post natal ‘Power Plating’, popular with many celebrity mums, including Victoria Beckham is set to take Edinburgh by storm as Studio EH1, Scotland’s only Power Plate studio, launches its first-ever group classes.
The 25 minute intense sessions, where babies are welcome, are designed to motivate and improve overall fitness, focusing on restoring optimal posture, safe pelvic floor exercises, muscle tone and improving functional and core strength to help deal with the demands of being a mum.
Plater, Kirsteen Coutts, (37), said: “It's so unusual being able to take your baby into the exercise class with you - my daughter certainly loves all the attention she gets.
The workouts are quick, fun and varied. I have already seen welcome changes in my shape and size since returning to the studio only four weeks ago.”
All Personal Trainers have in depth knowledge of post natal exercising and tailor sessions to suit depending on individual cases, after doctors have given the all-clear to exercise.
The studio was founded by sporting enthusiasts, husband and wife team, Ian and Helen Gray. Helen said: “We are delighted to be able to fill a gap in the post natal exercise market for mums who don’t have much time on their hands or anyone to look after their little ones. The feedback so far has been fantastic with mums being amazed at how quickly they have managed to get back into shape and their increased fitness level, all whilst having fun at the same time.”
Classes of six mums at a time take place at Studio EH1, 7a Coates Crescent every Tuesday and Thursday at 11am and last 25 minutes. Prices start from £70 for a block of 10 sessions. All Primary Times readers are eligible for a 10% discount. To find out more go to www.studioeh1.co.uk
Kip McGrath professional tuition in maths and English
Give your child a head start to the new school term with Kip McGrath. Its students aged from 4 to 18 are achieving high marks in school assessments and are also achieving 100% success rate for private school entry. Kip McGrath provides a free, no obligation assessment which enables parents to find out exactly how their child is placed for maths and English. Thereafter a learning programme is tailored to suit the individual needs of every child. Sessions are carefully designed to motivate and inspire as well as build confidence and self belief. Professional teachers provide weekly feedback to parents, making sure they are kept involved in their child’s learning. Kip McGrath also has experts at teaching those that are very able or have Dyslexia or Dyscalculia and also prepare children for exams at all levels. For further information phone Indy on 0131 610 6110 or go to www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/edinburgh-central
Fun, Interactive and Inclusive Music Lessons
Most Entertaining are a friendly local music tuition organisation based in the fabulous Summerhall complex on the Meadows in Edinburgh. Their focus is matching each pupil with the best-suited music teacher or learning group. Most Entertaining work with a wide range of professional music tutors to offer tuition across different styles and genres. Most Entertaining also deliver lessons in sight reading, scales and aural giving pupils extra confidence in their music exams. Their Grade 5 ABRSM Theory course (run each term) offers a guarantee of a pass or your money back. To date, there has been a 100% pass rate.
Most Entertaining also provide music-making sessions in primary schools throughout Edinburgh. Led by music specialists, these classes cater for various-sized groups of budding musicians using guitars, percussion, ukuleles, recorders and the voice.
If you would like to find out more about Most Entertaining or wish to discuss music education options for your child, contact 0131 477 7821 or visit the website at www.mostentertaining.com
Affordable music classes for all the family with Lamp House Music
Lamp House Music provides high quality, affordable music classes for all the family in a fun, friendly and welcoming environment. Children and adults can learn a wide variety of instruments including guitar, drums, keyboard, ukulele, vocals, piano and violin. Weekly group classes are particularly cost effective with groups kept small to ensure pupils receive the attention and tuition best suited to their age and ability. One-to-one lessons can also be arranged on request. Tutors are professional musicians, qualified, experienced and above all – enthusiastic!
Based close to Edinburgh just off the A1, Lamp House Music (Haddington) is easily accessible, with services ranging from Pop Star birthday parties to Rehearsal Rooms. Lamp House Music prides itself as East Lothian’s premier music rehearsal and teaching studio. For more information or to make a booking call 01620 825 630 or email info@lamphousemusic.co.uk or go to www.lamphousemusic.co.uk
Cool Creatures is an animal handling company which allows both children and adults to get up close and learn about nature. Cool Creatures regularly visit schools and nurseries, and has a specially designed education programme that fits in with the curriculum. Visits can be made to all sorts of groups from residential care homes to youth groups. Cool Creatures birthday parties are also very popular. The aim of Cool Creatures is to provide a platform for people to engage and respect animals while having lots of fun in the process. For more information call 01506 491149 or email calum@coolcreatures.co.uk or go to www.coolcreatures.co.uk