Child Struggling at School? Practical Tips to Help Your Child Thrive

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Learning differences specialist Mary Mountstephen advises you to take steps early on, with ‘Jake’ & ‘Tania’ as examples

Is Your Child Struggling at School? How to Recognize Signs and Support Them

If your child is having difficulties at school, you may notice signs like anger, anxiety, or tearfulness. Understanding the reasons behind these struggles is essential to provide the right support.

Tania’s school has observed some challenges but hasn’t yet suggested additional help beyond classroom efforts. Jake’s teacher offers reassurance but can’t be there during meltdowns at home. With schools facing tight resources, many parents feel overwhelmed when their child struggles with learning.

Practical Ways to Help a Child Facing Challenges at School

Supporting a child who finds school difficult isn’t always easy, especially if you aren’t a teacher. Your child might resist extra work, and you may feel unsure how to help effectively. Many parents seek outside assistance when unsure how to proceed. For guidance, check out our learning difficulties support guide.

When Should You Consider Specialist Help?

Schools are the first place to turn for support, but limited resources can restrict what they offer. Parents often explore tutors as an option for children who need extra help. Tutors can provide individual, group, or online sessions tailored to your child’s needs.

Tips for Finding the Right Tutor for Your Child

To find a good tutor:

  • Ask your school or local community for recommendations.
  • Choose tutors with special educational needs (SEN) qualifications.
  • Check if they offer a free consultation to assess fit.
  • Clarify your goals and teaching preferences.
  • Request testimonials and examples of past success.

Need help finding a tutor? Click here to find more

What to Expect from Educational Support Services

A professional tutor will adapt lessons to your child, provide timely feedback, and maintain a consistent schedule. Some children need short-term support; others may require ongoing help. Early intervention often improves school experiences and builds confidence.

For more information, click here.

Email Mary on kcsmary1@gmail.com

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Fun, Friends, and Fresh Opportunities at the Didcot Youth Festival

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Designed by young people for young people, Didcot Youth Fest, 11-5pm on Wednesday, 24th July, at the Cornerstone Arts Centre, promises lots of free fun

Discover the Didcot Youth Festival: Fun for Ages 10 to 20

The Didcot youth festival offers a lively day full of hands-on activities and live performances for young people aged 10 to 20. Designed by local volunteers, it celebrates creativity, community, and confidence.

A Festival Led by Young People

Young volunteers from Didcot worked with youth workers from TRAIN and SOFEA to create this festival. It supports youth-led social action and wellbeing, backed by Didcot Community Partnerships, SOHA, Sovereign Network Group, the #iwill Fund, and the National Lottery Community Fund.

Exciting Activities for Everyone

Visitors can enjoy graffiti art, dance workshops, live music, smoothie bikes, inflatables, parkour tasters, and human hungry hippos. The Youth Exhibition Zone shares information about local clubs, support services, and creative opportunities. Plus, there’s a chill-out space for those who want to relax.

Connecting Through Fun and Learning

The festival aims to help young people build confidence and explore new interests. It also offers a chance to connect with the local community. No booking is needed—just turn up and join the fun.

Ben Drabble, CEO of Didcot TRAIN, says, “This event is special because local young people shaped its vision and made the key decisions. They are creating something meaningful for their peers.” Zoe, a volunteer involved in website and flyer design, adds, “It’s great to have an event designed for us. It highlights many local opportunities.”

Supporting Youth Wellbeing and Social Action

This festival forms part of a wider project to encourage youth-led social action and improve wellbeing across Didcot. Through this event, organisers hope to inspire young people to get involved, learn new skills, and feel empowered within their community. Such initiatives play a vital role in creating a positive environment where young people can thrive.

More about SOFEA click here.

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From Uffington with Love: The Jane Austen Connection You Didn’t Know

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Uffington Museum celebrates the area’s connections to Jane Austen in a new exhibition, between now & autumn, thanks to months of careful curation & analysis

Discover Uffington Museum: A Window into the Village’s Past

The Jane Austen Uffington connection is the focus of a new summer exhibition at Uffington Museum. Opened in 1984, the museum showcases the village’s rich past, including its links to the White Horse and prominent figures like Thomas Hughes, Sir John Betjeman, and now, Jane Austen. This timely exhibition explores Austen’s close relationships with the Lloyd sisters and her ties to the Craven family, deepening the Jane Austen Uffington connection that shaped her personal and literary world.

Jane Austen’s Connection to Uffington

A new exhibition, Pride and Patronage, explores Jane Austen’s ties to Uffington through her friendship with the Lloyd sisters—Martha, Eliza, and Mary—and their grandmother, Elizabeth Craven.

The Craven family owned land around Uffington from the 17th century. Although Parliament seized parts of the estate during the English Civil War, the family regained control after the Restoration of Charles II in 1660. By Austen’s time, William, the 6th Baron, had passed the estate to his son, also named William. Jane often mentioned him in letters, and he is believed to have inspired the character of Willoughby in Sense and Sensibility.

A Small Museum with a Big Story

Though compact, Uffington Museum houses a wide array of artefacts and information. Highlights include the building’s original use as a boys’ school, founded by Thomas Saunders in 1617.

A dedicated team of volunteers manages the museum. They share local history with visitors, help trace family roots, and maintain the exhibits. The museum operates entirely on grants and donations.

Plan Your Visit

The museum is now open for the summer season. You can visit on Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays from Easter to the end of October, between 2–5 p.m. Entry is free, though donations are welcome and appreciated.

Don’t miss the Pride and Patronage exhibition, launched in celebration of Jane Austen’s 250th birthday. It’s a unique opportunity to see how her life and writing connect to this historic village.

For more about the exhibition, click here.

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Brandon Block Q&A ahead of Kaleidoscope

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Liz Nicholls asks DJ Brandon Block about music & recovery ahead of Kaleidoscope Festival at Alexandra Palace in north London on 12th July

Q. Hello Brandon. Are you looking forward to Kaleidoscope festival?

“Yes, so much! I was born in Hackney, and grew up in north-west London, I’ve had many ties to north London and Ally Pally over the years. If I have time – which isn’t often – I’d like to immerse myself in the festival. It looks wonderful. I’d like to catch anyone I can, Spoony I’ve known for years, from our days at Kiss FM and before, so it would be good to catch up with him, as well as Goldie who I’ve not seen for a long time either…”

Q. What’s your first memory of music? “My first memory of music is being given a small plastic record player with clicks and grooves in the discs.”

Q. What about in your teenage years – who were your musical heroes?

“All the disco and soul bands including, Slick, Francine Magee, Fat Larry’s Band, Sister Sledge, Chic, Roy Ayers, Maze, Teddy Pendergrass, Bobby Womack, EWF to name but a few, as well as Elvis, The Beatles, The Stones…”

Q. You have been so wonderfully open about your recovery from addiction & the interventions that saved your life. How are you feeling now, how’s life?

“Life is great however, if I didn’t have tools rationalise what’s going on the world, I’d be living in complete overwhelm and anxiety. It’s so tough out there. I find that gratitude is key to having a balanced life… I’m grateful for something every day.”

Q. Have you ever been star struck?

“I always get star struck, or maybe admiration is a better word.”

Q. Tough one, sorry!  But what’s your favourite tune/ top three?

“Luther Vandross: The Glow Of Love. George Benson: Love Ballad. Inner City: Hallelujah ‘92.”

Q. How do you take good care of your mental health?

“I’m mindful every day, to give myself time to check in see how I’m feeling and thinking, I don’t engage with social media often and never before midday, ever.”

Q. Who would be your dream dinner party guests, alive or dead, real or fictional?

“Elvis, Dr Joe Dispenza, Heston Blumenthal, the Hulk, and Earth, Wind & Fire: the whole band.”

Q. Finally, if you could make one wish for the world, what would it be?

“Peace for everyone. It may sound cliché but the world is so f***ed up.”

Now in its sixth year, Kaleidoscope Festival features an exciting line-up of live music, DJs and comedy, ready to entertain thousands, at London’s most beautiful festival site. Headlining the Hilltop Stage are dance music legends Faithless, performing their hits with a live. They are joined by pioneering drum ‘n’ bass artist Goldie, also performing with a full band, alongside BBC Radio 2 DJ Sara Cox playing an all-requests set of festival bangers, British indie staple Sleeper and the uplifting local ‘R’ Voices Choir. On the Cloud 10 stage, Eats Everything, DJ Spoony, Brandon Block, Melle Brown and Mas Que Nada Brothers form a line-up of eclectic DJs, while the Fringe Stage offers a variety of entertainment from renowned comedian and speaker Shappi Khorsandi and stand-ups Andrew Maxwell, Darran Griffiths and Alexandra Haddow, joined by diverse entertainment acts Beatles Dub Club, Hip Hop Karaoke and Four Forty Theatre.

Elsewhere, there’s something for the whole family with a variety of fantastic acts for all ages to enjoy, including Circus Sensible, Spare Room Arts, John Hinton’s Ensonglopedia, African Acrobatics Circus, Sohan Kailey and World’s Tallest Bubbleologist.

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Introducing Dellfest 2025 – A Brand-New Family Festival in the Meon Valley!

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18–19 July 2025
The Dell, Meon Valley, Hampshire
Get Tickets Now »

Get ready for the very first Dellfest – Hampshire’s exciting new family-friendly summer festival, taking place in the stunning Meon Valley this July! Join us at The Dell for two unforgettable days of live music, family fun, delicious food, and vibrant summer vibes.

Festival Highlights

  • Live bands and top DJ performances
  • Local talent including steel drum groups, ukulele bands, and choirs
  • Creative kids’ zones with activities like pottery workshops and family yoga
  • Entertainment for all ages, all day long

Whether you’re coming for the music, the kids’ activities, or the local food and drink, Dellfest has something for everyone.

Food & Drink Delights

Fuel your festival experience with:

  • The Dell’s signature wood-fired pizzas
  • Street food favourites: bao buns, smash burgers, tacos, crêpes & more
  • Locally brewed ales, ciders, and wines from Hampshire producers

Ticket Information

  • Adults and Children (Ages 2–16) – General admission
  • Under 2s – Free entry
  • Dogs welcome – Must be on a lead at all times

Book Your Tickets Here »

Stay the Weekend – Camping at Cedar Valley

Make it a weekend escape! Festival goers can enjoy exclusive camping, glamping, and bell tent options just minutes from the venue at nearby Cedar Valley.

  • Available for 18–19 July 2025 (2-night minimum stay)
  • Choose from standard camping or luxury glamping
  • Use code DELLFEST25 at checkout for 5% off

Book Your Stay at Cedar Valley »

Don’t Miss Out on Dellfest 2025!

Join us in the heart of the Meon Valley for a joyful, sun-filled weekend that’s perfect for families, foodies, and festival-goers of all ages. Come for the music – stay for the magic of Dellfest.

👉 Follow @TheDellHampshire for updates and announcements!

Enjoyed hearing about Dellfest? Click HERE to read our 2025 summer festivals guide

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Twins, Tricks, and Theatre Magic in Guildford 

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A Shakespearean classic and a great new comedy take place in and around the Yvonne Arnaud, at the same time, with the same cast. Intrigued? Sally Anne Lowe tells us how it’ll be done 

Experience the Guildford theatre double bill this July at The Yvonne Arnaud. The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre and Guildford Shakespeare Company collaborate to present two comedies—The Comedy of Errors and A Company of Rascals—performed simultaneously in and around the theatre from July 10–26. Audiences can select one play, the other, or enjoy both for a fully immersive experience across five locations.

A Unique Double Bill at The Yvonne Arnaud

For the first time, The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre and Guildford Shakespeare Company join forces this July. Together, they bring you two comedies—Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors and Phil Porter’s brand-new A Company of Rascals—performed simultaneously in and around the theatre from July 10–26.

Twin Tales Unfolding in Five Locations

Shakespeare’s classic farce about mistaken identity and slapstick antics will kick off on the riverside. Just as it begins, A Company of Rascals launches too—delving into the backstory of Shakespeare’s characters through a playful, meta lens. Audiences can choose to see one play, the other, or both for a fuller experience.

One Cast, Two Shows—Perfectly Timed

Sara Crowe, Robert Duncan, and GSC’s Matt Pinches play both productions. They weave between the main stage and unconventional theatre spaces, moving from one show to the next. This clever, real-time choreography adds an extra layer of fun and challenge. Timing really matters!

A Landmark Celebration

Joanna Read, Director and CEO of Yvonne Arnaud—and former Chair of GSC—directs both plays. She and the Guildford Shakespeare Co. have collaborated before, but never on this scale. This event marks the grand finale of the theatre’s 60th-anniversary refurbishment. What better way to celebrate than with a bold, site-responsive collaboration?

Voices from the Creators

Peter Read shares, “As we mark this landmark production, we celebrate not just the plays, but our partnership and community spirit.”
GSC founders Matt and Sarah Gobran add: “We’ve dreamed of this over many years. Bringing our site-responsive theatre to riverside settings and hidden spaces at the Yvonne Arnaud is thrilling!”

Your Invitation to Theatre Reinvented

You can catch The Comedy of Errors on the main stage, explore A Company of Rascals in the surrounding spaces, or enjoy both for a fully immersive experience. This event shines a new spotlight on Guildford’s theatre-making talents—behind the scenes and under the open sky.

To book tickets, click here or contact the Box Office on 01483 440000. 

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Mortgage expert Tori Bastien’s home truths

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Tori Bastien, trusted mortgage advisor and founder of Viking Mortgages, tells us what she loves about life in north Oxford as she launches a new finance advice column

Hello Tori! Tell us a bit about yourself.

Hi! I’m Tori, a mortgage adviser in Oxford and the founder of Viking Mortgages. I work with individuals and families to help them achieve the dream of home ownership—whether it’s securing their first mortgage, re-mortgaging, or navigating complex financial decisions. My focus is always on making the process clear, stress-free, and personalised.

Outside of work, I’m a single mum with a big, blended family. I’ve always dreamed of having a large family, and I truly love spending time with my children—each of whom has their own unique personality, needs, and dreams. Two of my children are now grown, and it’s been amazing to see how they’ve each forged their own paths.

I was born near Oslo, Norway, and moved to the UK at age 21 to study at the University of Warwick. In 1989, I settled in Oxford, and it’s felt like home ever since.

What do you love most about life in Oxford?

I absolutely love living in a peaceful Oxford neighbourhood with hardly any traffic. It’s filled with beautiful trees and offers easy access to the local park and the river. It truly feels like the best of both worlds—close to nature while still being part of a vibrant city.

What are your favourite local shops in Oxford?

For beautiful stationery, I’m a big fan of Pen to Paper in Summertown. It’s a small independent store, but they somehow stock just about everything you need. I love supporting independent Oxford shops and small businesses whenever I can.

My kids adore Daunt Books—their range of books across all genres is impressive, and their prices are fair too. I’m always trying to inspire my younger ones to take a break from screens and get into reading. A trip to a great Oxford bookshop always helps spark their interest!

Any go-to pubs or restaurants?

Definitely! As a family, we love eating at Mamma Mia—it’s a go-to for delicious Italian meals. The kids are also huge fans of Temptations Dessert Lounge, and Joe’s Bar is a local favourite, especially when they host live music on Thursday nights.

For casual catch-ups with friends, I love grabbing coffee at Colombia Coffee Roasters or Gail’s—both have great atmosphere and even better coffee.

Any exciting plans or goals coming up?

Travel is one of my greatest passions. I’ve just come back from an amazing trip to Singapore and Thailand with my 20-year-old. My next big goal? Learning to sail—it’s something I’ve always dreamed of doing.

Professionally, I’m excited to start writing a financial advice column, and I’ll continue sharing insights and tips on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. My mission is to make personal finance more approachable and empowering, especially for those who feel unsure or overwhelmed by it.

Are you involved in any local Oxford groups?

Life is definitely full with family, work, and friendships, so I haven’t joined many groups just yet. That said, one of my sons plays for Summertown Stars Football Club, and I enjoy supporting the team whenever I can. I’m especially looking forward to the Summertown Stars Football Tournament on 15th & 16th June—it’s always a brilliant local event!

If you could make one wish for the world, what would it be?

Peace—and for no one to ever go without food or shelter. Both are equally vital and should be universal human rights.

Visit www.vikingmortgages.co.uk

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Experience Rio’s Magic on the Road at Fleet Carnival

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Fleet becomes Rio de Janeiro on Saturday, 5th July when carnival comes to town bringing with it a touch of South America 

Celebrate Rio at Fleet Carnival

Get ready to take a colourful trip to Brazil this year at the 68th Fleet & District Carnival, themed around Rio de Janeiro! This annual celebration promises samba, vibrant costumes, and nonstop entertainment.

🎭 Join the Parade

The procession remains carnival’s highlight. This year, expect dazzling costumes inspired by Rio’s carnival spirit. Moreover, you can take part—or cheer on school groups, walking entries, and mobile floats as they compete for prizes!

🎶 Live Music and Performances

We’ll fill the day with fantastic music and performances:

  • First, enjoy Get Plucky—a ukulele ensemble with bass, cajon, and vocalists—perfect for singalongs.
  • Next, the Fleet Rock Orchestra delivers a grand, rock-orchestral big band sound.
  • Additionally, Congakeyz, The Funky Funks, and The Filthy Llamas bring the party atmosphere.
  • Meanwhile, in the arena, enjoy performances by Hart Gymnastics, Starburst Theatre Academy, and Frogmore Dance School.

🐾 Fun for Families (and Pets!)

Explore stalls, games, and more. Don’t miss the Carnival Dog Show—with classes for all dogs, just £2 per entry. You’re sure to leave with wagging tails and smiles all around!

🎗️ Supporting a Special Charity

Carnival’s Charity of the Year is Stepping Stones DS, which supports children and young people with Down syndrome, along with their families and carers. They offer many educational, social, and physical programs to help participants thrive.

🤝 A Community Tradition

For almost 70 years, Fleet & District Carnival, entirely volunteer-run, has united our community. As a result, the event delivers joy, laughter, and charitable fundraising year after year.

Come along for a dazzling celebration of music, costumes, and community—and create memories inspired by Rio’s magic.

More about the carnival and its history here

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Explore Haslemere’s Hidden Paths with the Social Hash House Harriers

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The Haslemere Hash House Harriers bring trail running fun to all ages—combining fitness, friendship, and the thrill of the outdoors. Grand Master Zoë Hepper explains what makes H4 so special.”

How H4 Began

The Hash began in 1938 as a communal trail-finding activity by four adventurous ex-pats in steamy Kuala Lumpur. Since then, it has gained popularity worldwide.

Why Join the Haslemere Hash House Harriers?

Why do hashers adore this paper-chase cross-country run? Primarily, they enjoy the thrill of finding the correct trail. They also benefit from healthy exercise. More than anything, they cherish running and socializing with diverse people. The term “Hash” comes from a KL culinary hash house. It isn’t a race—it’s gentle, recreational fun suitable for all ages.

Haslemere Hash House Harriers (H4)

Numerous hash groups exist around the country. One of the most active is Haslemere Hash House Harriers (H4), founded in 1987 by returned Brits. It welcomes newcomers regardless of age, gender, or ability. Membership costs just £20 per year, covering insurance and occasional social events such as the traditional Christmas lunch.

Joining the Hash

Once you join, you’ll receive a unique hash name. Then, you’ll learn how to run a hash: follow eco-friendly sawdust trail markers for about five miles. H4 meets on the first Sunday of each month. The run usually ends with a drink at a local pub. The scenic countryside around Haslemere often takes runners off the beaten path—and reveals hidden gems and stunning views, as long-term member Doug Thow says.

Family and Pet-Friendly

For families, hashing offers more than a run. Rachel explains, “On any hash we catch up with each other. Kids love the adventure—they explore as they run.” Mark adds, “Young and old run or walk at their own pace. Trails keep everyone together. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. We always start and end at a pub for social drinks, food, and chat.”

A Friend’s Invitation

I discovered hashing through a friend, and it quickly became one of my favorite activities. As an NHS worker, I see the impacts of isolation and sedentary lifestyles. Hashing offers a sociable, friendly solution. Since we include a short-cut option, it welcomes walkers and new runners. In short, it’s fun, inclusive, and accessible to everyone!

Find more about Haslemere Hash House Harriers here as well as on Facebook. Click here to go to our Facebook page.

 

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Experience the Magic of Heathland This Summer at Heath Week 2025!

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Thames Basin Heaths Partnership Heath Week events run from July 28th to August 3rd & they hope to see you there! 

Discover the Magic of Heath Week 2025 with Thames Basin Heaths Partnership

Thames Basin Heaths Partnership (TBHP) invites you to join Heath Week 2025 from July 28th to August 3rd. This free, week-long celebration is packed with family-friendly activities to help protect the precious heathland across Surrey, Berkshire, and Hampshire.

Explore, Learn, and Protect Heathland Together

Heathland is a rare and beautiful ecosystem that supports unique wildlife like nightjars, rare butterflies, and six native reptile species. During Heath Week, you can:

  • Discover fascinating heathland wildlife
  • Take part in interactive quizzes and creative nature crafts
  • Explore scenic trails and join expert-led walks and talks
  • Meet the passionate TBHP team and partners dedicated to conservation

If you bring your dog, look out for Heathland Hounds offering free advice, dog treats, and info about new dog-friendly walks.

Heath Week 2025 Event Highlights

Monday, 28 July

  • Butterflies and Other Things with Wings, Chobham Common, 10am–1:30pm
  • Wildfire Awareness Roadshow, Wildmoor Heath, 10am–2pm
  • Butterfly and Reptile Walk (RSPB), Blackbushe, 10:30am–12:30pm*
  • Nightjar Walk, Whitmoor, 8pm–10pm*
  • Marvellous Moths, Heather Farm, Horsell, 9pm–12am*

Tuesday, 29 July

  • Heathland Insects, Horsell Common, 10am–2pm
  • Forestry Finds (Forestry England), Bramshill Plantation, 10am–2pm
  • Sensory Scavenger Hunt, Wildmoor Heath, 10am–2pm

…and more events throughout the week

(Booking required for some events)

View the full event calendar and book your spot here → (internal link suggestion)

Why Your Participation Matters

By joining Heath Week, you help raise awareness of this special habitat. Your involvement supports conservation efforts that protect heathland’s rare wildlife and natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, dog walker, or family looking for outdoor fun, Heath Week offers a wonderful way to connect with nature.

Plan Your Visit

Mark your calendar, bring your family and friends, and get ready to enjoy a week of discovery, fun, and conservation. Learn more about the Thames Basin Heaths Partnership’s work and other year-round events at TBHP’s website.

Please note events are subject to change. Follow the events calendar for up-to-date information here.

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