The Diary

Earlyarts International UnConference will take place on 9 November 2010, in Halifax, and you have the opportunity to really get involved:

GROW Your Own workshop - come and share the best learning, ideas, skills, approaches and connections you have developed in your practice.

EXPOse Your Work - stalls are free to publically funded arts or cultural organisations, freelancers and charities. If you are an arts, cultural and creative professional (freelancer or organisation) and want to promote your skills, approaches, shows, workshops and opportunities for partnership with the wider early years and family learning sector, then contact us to apply for a stall. As long as your work is directly relevant to nurturing the creative potential of young children, families or early years professionals, you are welcome.

Invite your international colleagues to GLOBALise Yourself - in a series of short interventions designed to enable arts, cultural and early years professionals from outside the UK to make new connections virtually. Along with our audience and online participants they can share approaches and explore what makes a difference for their children and families, and how this works in practice.

Click here for more information about the Unconference.

Get creative on Tuesdays the 3rd, 10th and 17th of August...

Crafty Family Fun Mornings

The Allendale Bakery Allen Mills, Allendale, NE47 9EQ with Lapwing Crafts

9.45am -- 12.30pm

Silk painting  *  Salt Dough Moulding  *  Felting Rocks, Pebbles & Balls

Crafty Family Fun Afternoons

Pebbles Gallery & Art Cafe Shield Street, Allendale, NE47 9BP with Lapwing Crafts

2.00pm -- 4.00pm

Drop-in sessions £5.00 per adult

£7.00 for 1 adult + 1 child

£10.00 for 1 adult + 2 children

Fees are per craft. Children must be accompanied by a family member or friend at all times.

If you belong to a play-group and are looking for crafty things to do over the summer we may be able to arrange fun and creative activities for you, your children and your friends.

For further information about Lapwing Crafts click here.

As part of the Community Access Scheme 2010, FREE holiday activities for all age ranges will be on offer at Fell Dyke and Brighton Avenue Primary Schools, and Joseph Swan School this summer including football, rugby, basketball and many more.

This summer Fell Dyke Community Primary School and Brighton Avenue Primary School will be joined by Joseph Swan School in opening their grounds to the public for free use of their outdoor facilities and equipment, providing children, young people and their families with a safe place to play at the heart of their community.

View details of activities at the three schools.

Saturday 10 July, 1.30pm - 3.30pm

This summer holiday, Kids Kabin in Walker is offering a week of exciting opportunities for ages 8+. Please include the following in your letters home to families:

The week of activities will take place 9am - 5pm between Monday 2 and Friday 6 August. Activities are for ages 8 - 16, and those age 17+ can volunteer to assist with the running of the programme.

National Glass Centre has lots of creative activities in store to keep kids happy this Easter holiday. From the under 5s, 'Little Artists' and family workshops in glass painting, glass mosaics and sandblasting with help from NGC's studio glass makers, to a fun printmaking workshop with artists Michelle Wood and Jacqueline Quinn, who are also showing some of their work in NGC's current exhibition, 'Aligned'. Children can explore NGC's fascinating glass building by following the Easter chick trail to reach an egg-cellent reward!

Little Artists (under 5's) Friday 9 April, 10.45am-12pm, £6

Easter Egg Trail Follow the Easter Chick's mystery trail throughout NGC to lead you to a chocolate egg reward! Friday 2 - Monday 11 April, 10am - 4pm, £2 per participant

Glass Fused Mosaics (age 6+) Tuesday 6 or Tuesday 13 April, 10-11am, £15

Glass Painting (age 5 +) Wednesday 7 April, 10-11am, £6 per child

Sandblasting (age 5+) Wednesday 14 April, 10-11.30am, £8.50

Family Printmaking Fun (age 10+) Saturday 24 April, drop in from 1-1.30pm or 2.30-3pm. Join artists Michelle Wood and Jacqueline Quinn for hands-on printmaking. Children will get creative and explore printmaking techniques including Mono print and Chine-collé.

To book a place at any of the workshops contact reception on 0191 515 555.

We'd like to organise an Ambassadors' Networking event in June, but first we want to know what you'd like... The event will take place at Gateshead Old Town Hall (near the Sage Gateshead and Gateshead Metro) and is likely to be between 4 and 6pm one weekday in June. Please take a moment to let us know which of the following you'd be interested in. Please leave a comment or email Hannahmackay@gateshead.gov.uk by Wednesday 29 March:

1. Carnival themed event - a chance to hear from an Ambassador about their experience of working with artists to create a carnival event in school. This would be followed by a session with an artist, in which you'd learn how to make a simple carnival mask. There would be an emphasis on simple technique and affordable materials, to maximise your chances of being able to recreate the activity in your setting.

2. Scrapbooking - Suitable for anyone working with 3 to 11 year olds, this would involve hearing from an Ambassador about how they've used scrapbooks to strengthen the home-school link. This would be followed by a session with an artist in which you'd learn simple and effective scrapbooking techniques that you could use with children in your setting, whether it's a school, nursery, youth group or children's centre.

3. China themed event - a chance to hear from an Ambassador about how they've used Chinese arts and crafts in their school. This would be followed by a session with an artist in which you'd learn a Chinese craft technique, using paper, which you could deliver in your own setting.

4. If you are not interested in any of the above events please let me know - all feedback is useful and I'd be interested to hear if you have a suggestion of another event that you'd prefer.

Between 22 and 26 March there will be fun-filled activities for all the family in Felling. A full timetable can be found here. Highlights for children and young people include:

Monday 22 March

Let's Circus! for 8 years + at Brandling Community Centre, 4 - 5pm.

Kids' Activities for 6 - 10 year olds at Stoneygate Community House, 4 - 5pm.

Fun and Games for 10 years + at Stoneygate MUGA, 4 - 6pm.

Tuesday 23 March

Toddler Storytelling at Brandling Community Centre, 1 - 3pm

Wednesday 23 March

Going Green - children's bird box making and planting activity at Brandling Primary School, 1 - 3pm.

After School Activities for 8 - 14 year olds at Brandling Community Centre, 4 - 5pm

Young Women 'Hoop Hop' at Brandling Community Centre, 4 - 5pm

Thursday 24 March

Toddler Storytelling at Brandling Community Centre, 1 - 3pm

After School Activities for 8 - 14 year olds at Felling House Play Area, 4 - 5pm

Young Men's Fitness Group - Breakdance and MC night at Brandling Community Centre, 7 - 9.30pm

Friday 25 March

Healthy Cook & Eat session at Brandling Community Centre, 10am - 3pm

Community Allotment - green exercise and planting with Brandling Primary School at Brandling Primary School, 10am - 3pm

For further information, contact Felling Housing Office.

Lucy Carlton-Walker's recycled sculpture workshops, Landscapes of the Future, are booking up fast!

Key Stage Two classes at Glynwood Primary, Waverley Primary, Walkergate Primary and Oakfield Juniors will each spend a day working with Lucy, building sculptures of their community as they think it may look fifty years from now. Watch this space for photographs of their creations...

One workshop is still available for a Key Stage Two class in Newcastle or Gateshead on Wednesday 28 April. Click here to find out more about the workshops and to book.

Click here to find out what's happening in your area this half term. Have a go at archery, sledging, climbing and much more. Look out for the sports van coming to a street near you!

If you've been to any of these events why not leave a comment letting us know what you thought!

Looking for something to do over half term? Why not try some of these activities:

Design your own t-shirt at the Laing Gallery, 1.30pm - 3.30pm on Monday 15 February. T-shirts will be provided at this free session.

Get busy with Action Art in free sessions at Baltic, 11am - 4pm every day between 15 and 21 February. Using different movements and actions along with brightly coloured paint and a variety of materials, help to create a colourful and dynamic large scale artwork which will be displayed outside Baltic.

Join in with jungle art at Gateshead Old Town Hall on Friday 19 February. Make a tribal mask, crocodile collage, giraffe hand puppet or jungle picture with the help of Cultural Partner Crafty Creatures. Session for under 5s 11am - 12noon, and for 3 - 9 year olds, 1-3pm.

Make an electromechanical bugbot at the Centre for Life and build an obstacle course to test it out on. Saturday 13 February, suitable for ages 13+. £5 per ticket, booking essential.

Be amazed by the Harry Potter magic show at Walker Library on Tuesday 16 February (2pm) and East End Library on Wednesday 17 February (11am). Free but booking essential.

Do you know of other creative activities going on in Newcastle and Gateshead at half term? Why not leave a comment to tell other website users about them?

The Avison Ensemble in partnership with Gateshead Schools Music Service presents a Music Celebration Day on Wednesday 10 February at the Dryden Centre, Evistones Road, Gateshead, which is free to schools, groups and Cultural Ambassadors.

It's free for anyone to drop in between 10am and 4pm, to have a go at musical instrument taster sessions, massed vocal sessions and music workshops. Over 1,000 young people are expected to attend this event which is suitable even for complete beginners!

The Celebration Day will end with a concert at 6pm, featuring Gateshead Young Orchestra, Senior Windband and swing band 'Paraphernalia'.

For details please email frances@avisonensemble.com

National Storytelling week takes place 1 - 7 February, and there are plenty of Cultural Partners available to help you mark the occasion!

Taffy Thomas has just been named the UK's first ever Laureate for Storytelling, and you can hear him at Seven Stories on Saturday 6 February. For details click here.

For details of storytellers available to visit your setting, please see your Directory of Cultural Partners, or contact your Network Coordinator: Hannahmackay@gateshead.gov.uk or Caroline.pearce@newcastle.gov.uk

Action for Children's Arts is holding a regional seminar at Seven Stories, Newcastle, on Wednesday 23 September, 1.30 - 4.30pm.

This is one of a series of Action for Children's Arts events taking place across the country, giving everyone involved in children's arts - artists, producers, teachers, parents, local authorities, children's charities - the chance to meet each other, share ideas and contribute to a national campaign to promote the importance of the arts in children's lives.

Tickets are £15 for Action for Children's Arts members, and £25 for non members. To book or for further details click here.

There are some fantastic prizes up for grabs in this competition, and with the deadline in the second week of the autumn term, its a great way for schools to get their year off to a creative start!

Primary, secondary and special schools in Gateshead are invited to design a decorative light to adorn Gateshead this winter.

Children are asked to draw a design based on a seasonal theme, and the winning design will be made into a light that will be displayed in Gateshead town centre. The winning design will be reproduced as a line drawing, as close to the original as possible. This drawing will be interpreted by Blanchere Illumination UK, to create a light using an aluminium frame and coloured rope light.

Read on for details of the fantastic prizes and how to enter!

On Tuesday 6 October, between 3.30 and 5pm, teachers are invited to come along and find out everything Seven Stories can offer their school. The event is completely free of charge and will be a chance to enjoy some refreshments whilst being amongst the first to view two fantastic new exhibitions!

The Judith Kerr exhibition opens in mid September, featuring much-loved classics The Tiger Who Came to Tea and Mog the Forgetful Cat, alongside the moving story of Judith's childhood as a refugee. Meanwhile, a celebration of T.S.Eliot's Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, including a new edition illustrated by Axel Scheffler opens in the Bookden on 1st October.

There are some fantastic family shows coming to The Journal Tyne Theatre in Newcastle later this year!

The Gruffallo is set to delight family audiences on Friday 28 and Saturday 29 August. Performances are at 10.30am, 1.30pm and 4.30pm.

The Tales of Peter Rabbit promises plenty of friendly and familiar faces, including Mrs Tiggy-Winkle, Jemima Puddle-Duck and Tom Kitten. The performance will take place on Sunday 20 September at 2pm.

Older children and their families will be gripped by Skellig. Gateshead-born David Almond's bestseller is both eerie and magical, and this stage version promises to enchant audiences. Performances are at 10.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm, and 7.30pm between 13 and 17 October.

To book any of these shows, click here.

Children and adults are invited to join Cultural Partner Steve Marshall to create a panoramic drawing of Saltwell Park. No experience is necessary and all materials are provided at this fun and accessible workshop. Tickets are just £2 and should be booked by contacting HannahMackay@gateshead.gov.uk or telephoning 0191 433 6920.

Date: Saturday 15 August.

Time: 10am - 12 noon for 9 - 12 year olds. 1 - 3pm for adults.

Venue: Meet in the upstairs gallery of Saltwell Towers, Saltwell Park, Gateshead. The workshop will take place outdoors so please come dressed for the weather.

Gateshead schools are invited to the City Learning Centre's Poetry and Illustration festival between 14 and 18 September 2009. Professional poets and illustrators including Gez Walsh, Craig Bradley, Shoo Rayner and Rob Lewis will lead a series of workshops, which are sure to inspire children and teachers alike.

One session for a maximum of 35 children is available per school. Places are limited so be sure to book by telephoning Gateshead City Learning Centre on 0191 460 2900.

BALTIC is offering a free CPD session for primary school teachers, 12.30 - 4.30pm on Thursday 14 May.

Using BALTIC's A Duck for Mr. Darwin exhibition as a focus, you will be able to work with artists, to explore creative methods for evaluating learning, to work  with 'Dr. Maths' and with a consultant in emotional intelligence, exploring the potential of themed learning.

The event is completely free and includes a light lunch. For further information, or to book a place, please contact Helen Burns at: helenb@balticmill.com or phone 0191 4404929.

Now in its seventh year, The Children's Bookshow gives children the chance to experience the enthusiasm, energy and passion of some of today's top children's writers and illustrators, from familiar, well loved names, to exciting new ones.

As part of the Bookshow this year, Guo Yue and Clare Farrow will visit Newcastle to share their book Little Leap Foward. Children and teachers alike will delight in this event which focuses on the husband and wife team's moving acount of growing up in the Cultural Revolution of China. Based upon Yue's chjldhood in Beijing, A LIttle Leap Forward is a tale of family life and the ups and downs of friendship, which gives a fascinating insight into Mao Zedong's China.

Read on for details of free workshops for KS2 with Clare and Yue.

NewcastleGateshead's festival for children and young people is back! Following the success of last year's exciting events, Juice 2009 promises even more enticing opportunities!

Between Thursday 22 October and Sunday 8 November, NewcastleGateshead will be bursting with events, performances and activities, celebrating the creativity of children and young people.

There will be a wealth of opportunities specifically for schools to join in with. You can subscribe to the mailing list, to ensure you're the first to hear the news. Photos from Juice 2008 can be viewed here.

Fans of Judith Kerr's classic picture book The Tiger Who Came to Tea will be delighted to learn that the tiger is coming to Newcastle! Following the success of the 2008 tour, the stage adaptation is coming to Theatre Royal, 15 - 18 April. Join Sophie, her mummy and their unexpected visitor for magic, sing along songs, and clumsy chaos!

Matinees: Wed 1.30pm, Thu & Sat 9.30am & 11.30am, Fri 10.30am & 1.30pm .

Buy tickets here 

For reviews and a sneak preview, visit the Tiger's website.

Free tickets are available for a post show talk by director and playwright David Wood. Join David on Saturday 18 April, 12.30 - 1.20pm, to learn about the challenges of adapting a picture book classic for stage. To book tickets for the talk please call 08448 11 21 21.

September sees the launch of Seven Stories' exhibition From The Tiger Who Came To Tea, to Mog and Pink Rabbit; a Judith Kerr Retrospective. Keep an eye on the Seven Stories website for all the latest news about this and other Seven Stories events.

Making Music North East invites choirs, individual singers, vocal leaders and conductors to the Big Spring Sing. This one day workshop is aimed at any singers interested in:

meeting other singers
developing their vocal technique
learning new repertoire
singing a major work.

The workshop takes place at The Education Village, Darlington, 10am - 5pm on Saturday 9 May. Discounts are available if you book early. For more info, visit Making Music North East.

Come and celebrate 'Light up the Countryside Week' by making a lantern! The week will culminate in a spectacular lantern parade at Watergate Forest Park, 7 - 8pm on Saturday 21 February. Why not bring along your lantern and join in, or just come and watch. Family lantern making workshops are taking place at the following venues:

Tuesday 17 February, 10am - 12 noon at Thornley Woodlands Centre.

Wednesday 18 February, 12noon -2pm at Saltwell Park.

Thursday 19 February, 1 - 3pm at Bill Quay Farm, and 2 - 4pm at Thornley Woodlands Centre.

Saturday 21 February, 6pm at Watergate Forest Park.

Workshop places cost £2 per person and must be booked in advance by calling 01207 545 212 or emailing countryside@gateshead.gov.uk

Would you like to work with Northern Stage to influence programming decisions and create exciting new projects involving your students? Northern Stage Teachers' Forum is looking for teachers who can spare one hour, once or twice a term. In return, you'll get a glass of wine and a whole host of teacher treats.

Benefits include:

Tailor made training sessions

Advance booking info

Tours & talks for your students

Opportunities & projects for your school

Access to dress rehearsals

The next Teachers' Forum will be on Wednesday 25 February at 6pm in the Sponsors' Room at Northern Stage. For more info or to book, contact Susan Mulholland, Participation and Learning Coordinator, on 0191 242 7222 or smulholland@northernstage.co.uk

Newcastle will be celebrating Chinese New Year with a bang on Sunday 8 February. Firecrackers, unicorn dancing, food and family entertainment will bring in the Year of the Ox.

Highlights include:

Bath Lane for circus, dance and martial arts, as well as craft and food stalls.

Charlotte Square Children's Marquee, for lantern making, face painting and mask making.

North East Chinese Association, Stowell Street, for Chinese brush painting and calligraphy.

Click here for full listings.

Try these creative Chinese New Year activities in the classroom!

We're giving away two family passes for Centre for Life, where there's plenty to explore, from DNA and the senses, to recycling and constellations.

Newcastle Science Fest kicks off in March and promises some exciting events - find out what liquid nitrogen icecream tastes like, have a go at making a rocket and discover the essential ingredients of elephants' toothpaste.

For your chance to win a family pass for Centre for Life, simply tell us how old Charles Darwin would have been this year. (You might find some clues here! ) Email your answer to Hannahmackay@gateshead.gov.uk

Celebrate the arrival of Spring with storyteller Chris Bostock and musician Richard Scott with Tales for the Turning Year on Tuesday 24 March. Join them at Clara Vale Village Hall to look towards spring and learn how the lamb outsmarted the wolf and what grandmother spider brought to the earth.  

There'll be participation a-plenty in this musical journey of stories from around the world.

Suitable for family audiences of 5+ Tickets are £3 / £1.50

Tickets available from Clara Vale Village Hall, Clara Vale, Ryton NE40 OJE or the Box Office, 0191 433 8420.

COMPETITION: We're giving away A bit of an Earful - a CD collection of traditional tales told by Chris Bostock with music by Graham Raine and Bridget Enever. Be the first to answer the following question correctly, by email to hannahmackay@gateshead.gov.uk

Which season is being celebrated in Tales of the Turning Year?

Edinburgh-based Scottish Storytelling Centre is offering unique training in the use of storytelling throughout the school. 

Storytelling Schools: Whole School Approaches is a chance to hear from primary schools that have applied storytelling approaches through all stages of learning, with beneficial results. How might this work in your situation?

The workshop is on Tuesday 19th May 2009 10.00am - 3.30pm with Judy Paterson and Senga Munro. Tickets are £30 (£25 for network members), which includes lunch and refreshments. To book, call 0131 556 9579 email reception@scottishstorytellingcentre.com

Here's wishing you all a wonderful summer break.

Keep an eye on the site for changes and for news of autumn activities.

If you want to know more about NewcastleGateshead's first festival specially for all Children and Young People, register for more info at www.newcastlegateshead.com/cyp
It runs from September-November with something for everyone aged 0-18. Keep eyes here for all the news!

Best wishes for a wonderful summer - see you in September!

Caroline, Karolynne, Jeanne and Ednie

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The CCA Network's Fourth Culture in Education Showcase took place on Monday 2nd July. We had stall holders from some fantastic artistic and cultural organisations including Seven Stories, The Sage Gateshead, Baltic, Gem Arts, Tyne and Wear Museums, NE Regional Museum hub with their very popular freebie bags, Eye of the Fly and Dance City.

Teachers had the opportunity to try proggy matting, felt making, chinese painting, weaving with recycled materials, view DVDs of organisations work and pick up loads of information directly from organisations. The 2007 CIE Directory of cultural partners was also launched and given to attending teachers on the day.

We also had Monster Productions in costume, Emma Boor with her puppet show, 'Cinderella Green the Recycling Queen' and African drumming with Arts Isiziba and an after-school club from St Joseph's in Highfield, who all helped to entertained us.

I'd like to give a HUGE thank-you to the Stall Holders who were all fantastic, and I hope that the teachers enjoyed the day.

Please feel free to leave any comments on the Showcase or information on Stall Holders and I'll get back to you.

Bent Architect present:
FROG MAN by Mick Martin
‘Surreal, twisted and absolutely funny’ – Edinburgh Guide
Friday 22nd June @ 6.30 pm, Caedmon Hall.
Following on from a highly successful run at this years’ Edinburgh Fringe Festival and a one off (entirely sold out!) performance at Wakefield Arts Centre in October, Frog Man is on the loose once again in 2007!
From a suburban nightmare to sub aquatic bliss – this is a story of love, bullying and the turgid waters of domestic life. It begins one fateful afternoon down by the canal when Kenny and Kelly, two ordinary kids, steal Adrian Dunfor’s kite and their game goes horribly wrong…

Now Kenny is a police frogman and Kelly has dreadful asthma. They live at 46 Sunnybrook Meadow and drive a 4x4 in case anyone tries to murder them on the way to the supermarket. But that afternoon is with them still...

“Wonderfully sardonic pitch-black comedy. Witty one-liners abound throughout… Glorious and innovative - left me breathless�
Three Weeks Magazine
“George Orwell meets Nick Hornby, but with a plus…�
The Observer
Written by award winning MICK MARTIN, (Once Upon A Time In Wigan, The Life & Times of Young Bob Scallion) and directed by JUDE WRIGHT.
Frog Man is very funny - but with dark and at times disturbing overtones. The production appeals to established drama attendees and new audiences alike. It carries the personal recommendation of Alison Andrews, Arts Council Yorkshire Performance Arts Officer amongst others.
This show is suitable for audiences aged 14 upwards.
Running time approx 70 minutes
To book telephone the Caedmon Hall, Gateshead Central Library on 0191 433 8420

Fruity Friday will take place on the 25th May and is part of a national healthy eating campaign to raise awareness of links between diet, nutrition and cancer prevention.

If you and your school wish to participate there are loads of promotional material available (posters, book marks, stickers, recipe books) and also teachers' resource packs. Please contact the following address for requests for resource packs and for more information: Eileen Westhorpe, Health Promotion Resource Service for Gateshead, Dunston Activity Centre, Ellison Road, Dunston, Tyne and Wear, NE11 9SS, 0191 433 5684 or email: eileenwesthorpe@gateshead.gov.uk

There's a huge range of activies to occupy early years, children and young people this half term at centres across Gateshead.

There are 'Water Activities' at Gateshead Leisure Centre, Birtley, Dunston, Felling and Blaydon Swimming Pools, including Aquagames, Tots and Toys and a Rookie Lifeguard Course.

Four day sports activity weeks will be taking place at Birtley and Gateshead Leisure Centres.

Additional holiday activities include Tri golf, Street/Urban Dancing, Ski tasters, Mountain biking, sledging, and sheep shearing, as well as loads more.

The link below has full details and contact information.
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Do something different with your Sarurday night...This is a one off event in Newcastle and Gateshead on Saturday 19th May and is an amazing celebration of the international 'Museums at Night' Festival.
Fifteen venues across Gateshead and Newcastle will be opening their doors from 7-11pm and will be, 'bursting with culture'!
Free buses will transport you to venues throughout the evening.
I think this sounds fantastic! All of the participating venues and events are on the website:

http://www.thelateshows.org.uk/home/

MONDAY 14TH MAY, 6PM – 8.30PM
ARC, STOCKTON ON TEES
The Shakespeare Schools Festival are launching the Shakespeare Youth Festival (SYF) a new and exciting arts project that gives 16 to 21 year olds across the UK the opportunity to set up their own theatre company and stage an abridged Shakespeare play in a professional theatre – with complete creative ownership.

Together with partnership theatres SYF will provide mentoring, scripts, workshops and much more to help young people across the North East with or without experience to stage, direct, design and perform their show in March 2008. We will be holding free introductory workshops at the Ouseburn Farm and Education Centre on Wednesday 2nd May and the Arc, Stockton on Tees on Monday 14th May and invite young people (and teachers or youth group leaders if interested) to come along and find out more.

The introductory workshop is NOT an audition, its an….

1. opportunity to meet each other e.g. company mentors, young people and staff
2. for us to tell you what SYF can offer you
3. for you to decide whether you want to do it

For more information, alternative dates and venues around the country or to sign up for a workshop visit www.syf.uk.com or call the SYF office on 020 7786 6497.

Discover more about your ancestors and the area in which they lived. Buy bargain local history books and ask the experts.

Saturday 19th May 2007 at Caedmon Hall, Central Library. The event is FREE.
For more information contact the Local History Librarian for Gateshead, Anthea Lang on 0191 433 8403 or anthealang@gateshead.gov.uk

Just a quick reminder that the 2007 Culture in Education Showcase will be on Monday 2nd July from 3.00pm-6.00pm at the Indoor Athletics Hall at Gateshead International Stadium. This will be an opportunity for teachers to discover how artists, cultural and creative organisations can enhance creative work in schools and educational settings.
Invitations will be posted out within the next few weeks, but make a note of this date for the diaries.

For more information contact Fiona Kelly on 0191 433 6927

Here's the new schools programme from Seven Stories: The Centre for Children's Books, starting from September 2007.

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For the fifth year running, Local History Month is underway. The month began on Monday 30th April and will end on Sunday 27 May. There are over 70 events which take place at various venues throughout Gateshead. They include walks, talks, film shows and family history events. For more information call Central Library on 0191 433 8420 or Gateshead Visitors Centre 0191 477 5380, details on the different events are in the link below.
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An Evening with Janet MacLeod Trotter
Author of "A Handful of Stars" and "A Jarrow Lass"
Janet is a popular writer of historical novels set in the North East of England. She will talk about her novels and their settings.

Thursday 10 May 2007 at 7pm at Pelaw Library,Joicey Street,Pelaw
Tickets are £1 (to include a glass of wine) and available from Pelaw Library on 0191 433 6409

Help make your school bloom. Enter the Gateshead Council Summer Garden Competition and your schools’ efforts could be recognised whilst helping improve Gateshead’s environment for all to enjoy.

There are 3 area competitions to enter covering the whole of Gateshead each with the category – Best Kept Garden/ Class project. This category is open to all Nursery, Primary, Secondary and Special schools in the area.

For further information contact Events Unit, Gateshead Council,
Sport & Leisure, Old Town Hall, West Street, Gateshead, NE8 1HE, or telephone 0191 433 6900.

Artist Karen Johnson will be bringing her first exhibition back to her native North East from Saturday 24 March - Saturday 12 May 2007.

Gateshead’s Gallery, based at Central Library on Prince Consort Road, will be hosting the free exhibition, which explores how a family cope with disability.

The show explores the life of Karen's son Jamie, a child with downs syndrome, from birth to age seven. The ups and downs of family life are chronicled using modern photography.

The Gallery is open from 9am - 7pm Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, 9am - 5pm Wed and 9am - 1pm Sat. The Gallery is closed on Bank Holidays. For more details call the Arts Development Team on 0191 433 6927.

From Gateshead Council Sport and Leisure Team

Get the kids active this Easter at one of the many courses planned across all our leisure facilities.
There’s something for everyone, from football, basketball, hockey, skiing, rugby, swimming and lots, lots more!
If the kids are water babies, then there’s plenty of water activities too. Whether they’re learning to swim or want to take part in Aqua Games. They can even learn lifeguarding skills at one of our Rookie Lifeguard Courses taking place at Gateshead Leisure Centre and Dunston Pool. All this and more!
For full details on all courses and activities contact your local leisure facility or visit www.gateshead.gov.uk
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Graeae Arts are the Country's foremost disability-led company, and they are coming to Northern Stage in Newcastle on 29 - 31 March. The story is 'Whiter Than Snow' which is a radical retelling of the Snow White story and is suitable for children, (and their mums and dads) over the age of seven. The special offer is for £5 tickets, to book ring Alanna on 0191 242 7237 and quote 'Graeae Offer'.

The fourth Culture in Education Showcase will take place in the new Athletics Hall at Gateshead International Stadium on Monday 2nd July.

Watch this space for more details.

Brought to Book - A Body in the Library
Thursday 15 March 7.30pm
Central Library
Prince Consort Road
Gateshead

Can you solve the crime?

A murder mystery evening with crime novelist Ann Cleeves and ex Crime Scenes Investigation Officer Helen Pepper.

This is an extremely popular event, which is selling quickly. Book your tickets now to avoid disappointment.

Tickets £5.00
Available from the Central Library Box Office
Tel: 0191 4338420


The Police Inspector, the Crook, the Mortuary Assistant and the Writer
Monday 12 March
7.15pm
Rowlands Gill Library
Norman Road
Rowlands Gill

An evening with bestselling crime novelist Margaret Murphy

A light-hearted look at how she researches her crime novels, the science behind the crimes and with readings from her books.

Tickets £2
Available from Rowlands Gill Library
Tel: 01207 542372

1st to 31st March 2007

Sport England as part of their Everyday Sport campaign are encouraging women in Gateshead to take the plunge and get swimming by providing free swim sessions at all five Gateshead Council Swimming Pools throughout March.

Free entry is available on all general swimming sessions including Aquafit, Adult Lane Swimming etc for ladies 18 years and over.

Plus as well as our normal swim programme of activities there's:-

Sunday evening ladies only sessions in March 6pm - 8.30pm at Birtley & Felling Pools

And ladies if you can't swim, it's time to learn!
Try our March Learn to Swim taster sessions, 5 - 28 March
Mon, Tues, Wed, 9am - 10am at Birtley Pool

For session times and availability, contact your nearest pool and remember it's FREE!

Blaydon Pool 0191 433 5770
Birtley Pool 0191 433 5775
Dunston Pool 0191 433 5757
Felling Pool 0191 433 5715
Gateshead Leisure Centre 0191 433 5733

Free entry tickets to be obtained at reception prior to entering the pool.

Swimming is a great way to tone and improve your body shape, burn up excess calories, relax and exercise at the same time. In short, it helps you to lead a healthy and active life.

The Friends of Tynemouth Station run four free book fairs on the covered south platform of the metro station (the flea market is on the other side) on the following dates this year.

10am - 4pm

Sunday 15th April

Sunday 24th June

Sunday 19th August

Sunday 14th October

For more information, telephone Mrs Ylana First on 0191 257 2180.

This story about premises for sale comes from the Council website, courtesy of Steve Heal.

One of Gateshead’s most important historic churches is on the market again.
St Cuthbert’s Church, one of a small number of churches designed by the renowned 19th century Tyneside architect John Dobson, is at the centre of a major marketing campaign after a church group which had been intending to buy the building pulled out in favour of another disused church.

Gateshead Council is now working closely with English Heritage and the Church Commissioners on a renewed, and possibly final, bid to find someone to buy and convert the Church and bring the building back into use.

Councillor Linda Green, Cabinet member responsible for Gateshead’s historic environment, says: “It was a major setback when the Society of Pius X decided to pull out, but we remain optimistic. It is important that we try to secure the future of this historic local landmark. There are now only a small number of Dobson-designed churches left standing and it would be a tragedy for Tyneside as a whole if such an important part of our built heritage was lost. Hopefully, the national marketing campaign will identify someone who is prepared to take on such a splendid building and help bring this important church back from the brink.�

Carol Pyrah, English Heritage Planning and Development Director for the North East, says: “English Heritage welcomes and supports the efforts to secure a future for St Cuthbert's Church. Although no longer used as a place of worship, the Grade II listed building is a significant and visually vital part of the local heritage. Finding a new use for St Cuthbert's which respects its historic character and landmark quality will ensure that it continues to contribute to Gateshead's architectural identity for generations to come.�

Over the past decade, a number of alternative uses for St Cuthbert’s Church have been proposed, but none have succeeded in gaining planning permission. Gateshead Council still feel that an alternative use can be found, however.

The Church occupies a prominent site on the corner of Bensham Road and Derwentwater Road and was built between 1845 and 1848 to a design by John Dobson. The Grade II listed building held its last religious service in 1991.

Plans have now been made to market the building nationally. Calum Gillhespy of agents Gray’s Chartered Surveyors said “ I am delighted to have been able to work with Gateshead Council and English Heritage to agree a strategy for the sale of this prominent building. Overlooking the Tyne, with the benefit of a comprehensive information pack, I am hopeful that we will find a buyer for this unique property and would be delighted to hear from anyone who thinks that they might be able to take forward a conversion scheme.�

The property is being sold with the benefit of a development brief produced by Gateshead Council which supports the conversion of Church to a range of commercial and residential uses.

Anyone interested in purchasing St Cuthbert’s Church should contact Calum Gillhespy of Gray’s Chartered Surveyors for more details on (01388) 487007.

This half term, 17 – 25 February, the Centre for Life , Newcastle unveils its state-of-the-art Digistar planetarium with a brand new show, Winter Skies, taking visitors on a journey through our solar system to learn more about our neighbouring planets and the stars they’ll be able to see outside on the very night of their visit.

The show will be screened throughout the day and lasts 20 minutes. Ian Simmons, Head of Science Development and Public Programmes at the Centre for Life, said: “The planetarium is a major new feature of The Centre for Life, and is the only digital planetarium in the North East. It looks set to be a very exciting addition to our range of activities here at Life. The images used in the show are truly mesmerising and I’m sure our visitors will find it fascinating�.

The planetarium is based in Life’s Dome Theatre and planetarium shows will alternate throughout the year with the kind of immersive dome shows Life is already running such as Lifeseeker.

The space theme will continue around the rest of the Centre with a range of hands-on activities including a Stamp Rocket Workshop. Lasting approximately 30 minutes, visitors will get to make and launch their own mini balloon-powered rockets. Additionally, live Space Science demonstrations will be hosted by the Centre’s Science Explainers who will carry out exciting experiments on forces and gravity with the help of audience volunteers.

In addition, visitors will be able to explore the Centre’s permanent exhibition’s Our World which recreates some of the planet’s harshest environments and Wasted: The Trouble with Rubbish, which looks at what happens to our rubbish when we throw it away and how it might come back to haunt us.

The Centre for Life is open seven days a week. Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm and Sunday from 11a.m. to 6p.m. Last admission on all days is approximately 4p.m. Admission prices are £6.95 for adults; £4.50 for children (aged 5 to 16); £5.50 for concessions and £19.95 for a family ticket (2 adults and 2 children or one adult and 3 children). For further information please visit www.life.org.uk or call (0191) 2438210.

This story courtesy of Stevel Heal in the Council Communications Office

Gateshead Council will be making its own contribution to a national campaign to provide nesting sites for garden birds next month.
A “make-your-own-nestbox� event is being organised by Gateshead Council’s Countryside Team on Saturday 10 February to help local people to build nestboxes for their own garden - in readiness for the British Trust for Ornithology’s “National Nest Box Week� which starts later that week.

The event, which costs £3, will give people the chance to build their own nestbox which they will be able to take home with them. There will also be the chance to join the council’s resident bird expert on a visit to Gateshead Council’s newest bird hide at Lamesley Pastures Nature Reserve for a spot of bird watching.

Peter Bell from Gateshead Council’s Countryside Team says: “A growing shortage of nest sites in Britain is something which is causing wildlife experts and ornithologists real concern.

“Many of the traditional holes in trees and houses which garden birds use are disappearing - perhaps due to recent increased interest in home and garden. Improvements. Even the humble House Sparrow, which was once one of our most common garden birds, is finding it increasingly difficult to find its traditional nest holes under the eaves of buildings - because many of them are now sealed up, often with uPVC.

“However, many species of birds can be encouraged to use nestboxes and this event will give people the chance to make their own, and receive expert guidance on where to erect it.�

The event runs from 10.00 am till midday and is suitable for all ages – but participants are warned to wrap up warm as the nest box building will be taking place outside in the car park of the Ravensworth Arms Hotel in Lamesley.

A second after-school event is being held on Tuesday 13 February from 4pm - 6pm at Whickham Library, where people will be able to make a nest box for Whickham Library's new nature garden or, for a charge of £3, make their own bird nest box and fat-ball feeder to take home.

The event is suitable for all ages and abilities and all tools and help will be provided.

The British Trust for Ornithology’s “National Nest Box Week� runs from 14 - 21 February and aims to encourage people to put up nest boxes to improve gardens and other habitats for nesting birds.

Please send any unwanted but operating cassette walkmans to Dorothy Cameron, Reader Development Librarian, Central Library, Prince Consort Road, Gateshead, NE8 4LN.

Our visually impaired readers groups still read talking books on cassette and new walkmans are almost impossible to buy now, so your donation will go to a good home, with or without headphones!

Many thanks for your generosity.

Free Spirit
Friday 9 February, 8.00pm
Caedmon Hall, Gateshead Central Library
Dharambir Singh - sitar, Lewis Watson - Saxophone, Bhupinder Chaggar - Tabla &
Electric Percussion, Neil Harland - Acoustic & Electric Bass
During the Spring, Summer and Autumn of 2004 Free Spirits spent time writing and rehearsing a new repertoire for this exciting new ensemble, which brings together four virtuoso musicians from the world of jazz, rock, pop, folk and classical Indian music to explore and expand the boundaries of Eastern and Western musical culture.
Cost: £6/£5 Box Office 0191 433 8420

Bird Boxes
Saturday 10 February, 10am - 12noon
Car Park of the Ravensworth Arms Hotel, Lamesley.
Make your own nest-box to take home and visit our new bird hide for a spot of bird watching with our resident expert. Wrap up warm as the nest-box making takes place outside.
Suitable for all ages and abilities
Cost: £3
Contact: 0191 433 3443

Gateshead Industrial Heritage Talk
Saturday 10 February, 11am - 12noon
Saltwell Towers
A look at the rise of industry and what it meant to Gateshead by Ian Ayris, Tyne & Wear County Industrial Archaeologist.
Cost: Free
Numbers are limited, please book in advance.
Contact: 0191 420 1129

Valentine Vibes
Sunday 11 February, 1pm - 3pm
Bill Quay Farm
Roses are red, violets are blue, cut out the card, and stick it with glue!
Traditional Valentine card making
Suitable for all the family
Cost: £1
Please book in advance. Contact: 0191 433 5780

St. Valentine in the Countryside
Sunday 11 February, drop in any time between 12noon - 4pm
Thornley Woodlands Centre
Romantic country folklore displays and activities. Prepare for St Valentine's Day by making your own powerful love potion, paper and willow hearts and a special valentine card using the language of flowers.
Suitable for all the family
Free, Contact: 01207 545 212

Walker Evans: Photographs 1935-1936
Friday 16 February - Library Opening Hours
The Gallery, Gateshead Central Library
During the Great American Depression of 1935-36, the Missouri-born photographer Walker Evans (1903-1975) embarked on a photographic project which would producesome of the most iconic images in the history of photography. This new Hayward Gallery Touring exhibition brings together around 40 black and white prints,
reflecting rural working life in the southern states of America.
Free

Tree Thinning at Swalwell
Saturday 17 February, 10am - 2pm
Swalwell Visitor Centre
A chance to join in the countryside management work and help to take care of the Derwent Walk Country Park. We will be cutting down trees with saws and loppers, under the supervision of the countryside rangers, with lunch around the bonfire.
Suitable for families, children must be 11 and over. Bring a packed lunch
Cost: Free
Numbers are limited, please book in advance
Contact: 01207 545 212

Bill Quay Farm
Dome Build
Tuesday 20, Wednesday 21, Thursday 22 February , 1pm - 3pm
Come along and help to build a willow dome. Wait for it to grow and then come back and explore the tunnels and spaces within.
Suitable for all
Cost: £1
Contact: 0191 433 5780

Mini Bird Dinners
Wednesday 21 February, 12noon - 2pm
Training Centre, Saltwell Park
Come along and make bird food for our feathered friends.
Under 6 yrs
Cost: £1
Numbers are limited, please book in advanceContact: 0191 433 5915 / 433 5918

Reform, Reform, Reform

an exhibition at Grey College, Durham University
South Road, Durham
Friday 2nd March - Saturday 31st March 2007
10am- 6pm Saturdays and Sundays, and weekdays by appointment on 0191 334 5565

A historical insight into how ordinary people achieved the vote and the universal suffrage we today take for granted. This year marks the 175th anniversary of the 1832 Reform Bill and also the 175th anniversary of the founding of Durham University, which was set up in 1832, when Early Grey was Prime Minister.

Memorabilia on display includes artefacts from Earl Grey's administration, Chartist literature, news reports of reform riots and political cartoons by the caricaturist George Cruickshank.

The exhibition will appeal to anyone with an interest in history. The College is especially keen to hear from schools, colleges and universities interested in seeing these important artefacts from our political past.

This is a reposting due to a change in listings:

Seven Stories Author and Illustrator Events 2007

Dear Teachers and Group Leaders,

Seven Stories, the Centre for Children’s Books wishes you all a very happy new year.

We have a whole new line-up of exciting exhibitions and award-winning authors for 2007! Read on to find a visit for your group that will inspire their creativity, spark their imagination and encourage their love of books.

Seven Stories’ delightful new exhibition, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt – Picturebook Adventures will be launched in early February 2007. Created by Seven Stories in collaboration with Walker Books, this brand new exhibition will showcase ten of your favourite picture books, including the classics We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen, Five Minutes’ Peace by Jill Murphy and The Mousehole Cat by Antonia Barber.

For information about our range of school and group visits, please see the accompanying document What’s On For Schools and Groups. In addition we also have special author and illustrator events to offer, which is separated into the categories below:

· Early Years
· KS1 & KS2
· Upper KS2 & KS3
· Adults and Young People
· General information about Seven Stories’ bookshop, café and contact details

Please pass this information on to anyone who might be interested.

Thank you

EARLY YEARS

Yoga Bugs
Back by popular demand, Yoga Bugs will now be available to Nursery and Foundation groups. Explore stories through yoga and movement with Debi McAllister. Dates to be confirmed. Suitable for early years groups ages 3-5. To find out more, please contact Alison Neill, details at end.

KS1 & KS2

World Book Day, Thursday 1 March 2007
School events to celebrate the tenth birthday of this popular annual event. There will be plenty of opportunity to spend your voucher in Seven Stories Bookshop. Suitable for school groups ages 7-11, KS2 years 3-6. To book a school visit between 10am-12 noon or 12.30-2.30pm please contact Alison Neill, details at end.

UPPER KS2 – KS3

Colin Foreman, Monday 12 March 2007
Spurred by a desire to turn boys off computer games and onto reading, Canadian-Scottish writer Colin Foreman resigned from a highly paid business post. He produced two adventure stories to raise funds for the Children’s Hospice Association of Scotland and voluntarily held author sessions in over 60 schools in Scotland. His epic stories, To the End of the World and Killer in the Dark, set in the Dark Ages, have built a dedicated following and his fans are now eagerly awaiting the publication of the third book in March 2007. Don’t miss out on the chance to meet Colin and join him for writing activities. Suitable for school groups ages 9-14, KS2 years 5-6 and KS3 years 7-9. To book a school visit between 10-12 noon or 12.30-2.30pm please contact Alison Neill, details at end.

Pie-cats and Pizzas: ways of kick-starting creativity with Ann Coburn, Monday 19 March 2007
A Seven Stories from Seven Stories Event
Northumberland born author Ann Coburn has a strong commitment to writing for young people and her published work includes the award-winning Borderlands quartet Glint. Ann’s short story Glitter featured in the Seven Stories from Seven Stories series broadcast on Tyne Tees last autumn. Join Ann in conversation and discover her story-making secrets. Visit www.anncoburn.com for more information. Suitable for school groups ages 7-13, KS2 years 3-6 and KS3 years 7-8. To book a school visit between 10am-12 noon or 12.30-2.30pm please contact Alison Neill, details at end.

In Conversation with Berlie Doherty, Thursday 22 March 2007
Continuing our season of events with Carnegie Medal winners, prolific children’s writer Berlie Doherty will be visiting Seven Stories to talk about the inspiration behind her books. Bernie’s first novel for children, How Green You Are!, was published in 1982. She has won the Carnegie Medal twice, first for Granny was a Buffer Girl in 1986 and again in 1991 for Dear Nobody, which dealt with the subject of teenage pregnancy. Join Berlie in conversation and find out what sparks her writing. Suitable for school groups ages 9-14, KS2 years 5-6 and KS3 years 7-9. To book a school visit between 10-12 noon or 12.30-2.30pm please contact Alison Neill, details at end.

In Conversation with Adele Geras, Tuesday 27 March 2007
A Seven Stories from Seven Stories Event
Adele Geras was born in Jerusalem in 1944. Her father was in the Colonial Service and she spent much of her childhood in many different countries. In titles such as Stories of Jerusalem, Adele weaves experiences from her childhood with tales from her imagination. A Candle in the Dark is set in Germany in 1938 when the world was on the brink of war. Join Adele as she discusses the inspiration behind these and other stories. Suitable for school groups ages 9-14, KS2 year 5-6 and KS3 years 7-9. To book a school visit between 10-12 noon or 12.30-2.30pm please contact Alison Neill, details at end.

In Conversation with Paul Bajoria, Friday 27 April 2007
A Seven Stories from Seven Stories Event
Recently published for the first time, North East born Paul Bajoria has already been compared to Dickens. His debut children’s novels, The Printer's Devil and The God of Mischief evoke an atmospheric picture of early 19th century London. Bajoria’s short story, Devilment featured in the ITV series Seven Stories from Seven Stories broadcast this Autumn. Book now for your chance to meet this true master of historical fiction for older readers. One session only 10am – 12noon. Limited places. Suitable for school groups ages 10-14, KS2 year 6 and KS3 years 7-9. To book please contact Alison Neill, details at end.

In Conversation with Joan Lingard, Tuesday 1 May 2007
Bestselling writer, Joan Lingard, has written a string of novels for older readers which vividly recreate the time and place of some of the darker periods of history – Tug of War and its sequel Between Two Worlds follow the story of Latvian refugees during the second world war, whilst Natasha’s Will links present day with the Russian Revolution. Lingard’s books deal masterfully with themes of displacement and loss and the struggle for individual freedom during times of conflict. Seven Stories is offering schools and groups a rare chance to meet Joan Lingard and discuss the issues that have inspired her writing. Suitable for school groups ages 9-14, KS2 year 5-6 and KS3 years 7-9. Book a school visit between 10-12 noon or 12.30-2.30pm. To book please contact Alison Neill, details at end.

ADULTS AND YOUNG PEOPLE 16+

In Conversation with Melvin Burgess, Wednesday 28 February 2007
A Seven Stories from Seven Stories Event
Acclaimed writer Melvin Burgess is widely known for his frank explorations of the issues that so often mark the teenage journey to adulthood. Junk (1996), a disturbing account of teenage homelessness and heroin addiction on the streets of Bristol, won both the Carnegie Medal and the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize. Burgess’ comedy, Lady: My Life as a Bitch (2001) and his uncompromising novel, Doing It (2003) received much publicity for their candid portrayals of the sexual behaviour of teenagers. His latest book, Sara’s Face (2006) addresses issues of fame, wealth and corruption, resulting in a sinister and shocking tale which leaves the reader marveling at Burgess’ imagination. Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to meet Melvin Burgess and enjoy a fascinating insight into his fictional worlds. Suitable for adults and young people strictly 15+. Tickets £5 and £4 (concessions/Annual Pass holders). Pre-payment required. To book please ring 0845 271 0777. The Seven Stories Bookshop will be open until 6pm.

Launching ‘Wall’ by Ellen Phethean, Friday 2 March 2007
It’s a story about walls: about barriers and how to overcome them.
Wall by Ellen Phethean is a gritty series of poems that tell a story about life in and around the Byker Wall. Published by Smokestack Books, Wall is the culmination of a writing residency which found Ellen interviewing and running workshops with a great mix of people young and old who live in Newcastle’s East End. The characters in Ellen’s tale and the events that happen in the story are inspired by the very real experiences she collected during the writing project. The launch of Wall with readings and book-signing commences at 4pm in the Artist’s Attic. Suitable for adults and young people 12+. Normal admission charges apply for day visitors.

TEACHER PREVIEWS
To hear more about the workshops and preview the centre, sign up for one of our Teacher Previews. Previews are normally held once a month, on the second Tuesday, from 4:00 p.m. until 6.00 p.m. Admission is free and includes light refreshments. Pre-booking is essential.

SEVEN STORIES BOOKSHOP

Book ownership is a significant factor in raising interest in reading and levels of literacy. A visit to the Seven Stories Bookshop can round off your visit and ensure that children build on their experience by re-reading their favourite stories. As well as our extensive range of the very best books for children of all ages (at a starting price of only £1), we also have a great range of gifts and souvenirs to fit all pockets.

School Bookshop Accounts
With over 10,000 children’s books published yearly in the UK alone, it can be difficult for teachers to find the right book at the right time - The Seven Stories Bookshop can help. Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you on making a selection, help with ideas, particular aims you have or themes you would like to emphasise. You can receive discounts and also place orders by fax or email if you cannot come to the shop.
SEVEN STORIES COOL CAT CAFÉ

Eating in the Cool Cat Café can prove to be a great experience for children on a school visit to Seven Stories. Our children’s meal deal option provides a balanced, nutritionally varied meal, priced at £2.50 per child. Adults can be given a pre-order form with lunch options from our daily menu.

CONTACT US

For more information please see our website at www.sevenstories.org.uk
For further enquires or to make a booking, please contact Alison Neill our Marketing and Bookings Assistant: 8 alison.neill@sevenstories.org.uk (0845 271 0777 ext 707).

A school or group visit to Seven Stories costs £3.50 per child with 2 FREE adult places for every 10 children.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Arts Cluster Day

Wednesday 31st January (apologies for such short notice):

3pm and 5pm (repeated sessions)

At BALTIC

Funded by Gateshead Council and Business Link, artist Corinne Lewis and associates have taken the plunge and founded a network for creative professionals who live and work in Gateshead.

Come along and meet people, register for the Cluster and help to found an artistic community in the borough.

To book (free childcare available) telephone 0191 477 3747 / email: creativegateshead@hotmail.co.uk

Creative Gateshead (part of Vision 2030)

Friday 2nd February

9am - 12noon

Riverside Restaurant, BALTIC

Come along and 'be consulted' about Gateshead's Sustainable Community Strategy - it's your chance to influence how we shape the borough to sustain its creative vision.

Your invitation and a flier are attached here...

Download file

Download file

Best of luck to Pat Riddell, one of Gateshead's Cultural Ambasssadors who is speaking at this teachers conference in February.

An Insight into Post-conflict Education
Come to our teachers conference and find out how to bring the world into your classroom!

This half day conference on Monday 26 February 2007 offers a unique interactive professional development opportunity for UK teachers. It is a must for anyone interested in developing their skills.

Interactive workshops led by UK teachers and students from the Insight Programme will explore ways that students and schools can get involved with education issues in the developing world, with subjects including citizenship, drama and drumming.
A unique chance to hear from a UK asylum seeker, Patrick Ramazani, who was a Head teacher in Rwanda before coming here to seek refuge.
Guest speakers including Steve Sinnott, General Secretary of the NUT, will highlight the current trends and benefits of this kind of CPD in their specified fields.
Opportunity to connect to a network of like minded teachers and practitioners throughout the UK and wider world and find out how you can get involved in the Insight Programme.

Details:

Monday 26 February 2007
1- 4pm
NUT Headquarters, Hamilton House, Mabledon Place, London WC1H 9BD
£30 each including lunch

Book your place now:
First, reserve your place using our online booking form
Then, send a cheque payable to Education Action International to: Schools, Education Action, 14 Dufferin Street, London, EC1Y 8PD
Or call us with your credit card details on 020 7426 5802

Call us
Call Sally Hewlett on
020 7426 5802
Email us
Come to our conference
Apply now
Copyright ©2007 Education Action. All Rights Reserved. Registered Charity No. 1003323.
Terms | Site Map

Seven Stories, the Centre for Children’s Books based in the Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle, provides the only exhibition space in the UK wholly dedicated to the work of children’s writers and illustrators. Recognised as a new national home for children’s literature, it brings together original manuscripts and artwork from some of the nation’s best loved children’s books and houses the largest independent children’s specialist bookshop in Britain.

All group visits to Seven Stories focus on enjoyable encounters with books and the creative processes that go into their making. Overall, we aim to provide an enjoyable educational experience which will lead to children and young people being inspired to read and explore their own creativity.

Download brochure [PDF:477KB]

....a whole new line-up of exciting exhibitions and award-winning authors for 2007! Read on to find a visit for your group that will inspire their creativity, spark their imagination and encourage their love of books

Download Events List [Word:277KB]

Every year the Road Safety Team deliver cycling proficiency training courses in primary schools during the spring / summer term.

The programme runs for approximately 4 months between 9am and 3pm Monday to Friday during term time.

In order for the programme to be carried out this year we are seeking to employ instructors to carry out this worthwhile and rewarding job.

The aim of the course is to make children more aware of the responsibilities associated with owning a bike and to develop the basic skills required to encourage safer cycling. Experience isn't necessary as full training will
be given.

If you know any family members or friends who are concerned about the road safety of our children, feel confident talking to children and would like to work outdoors as a cycling instructor, please contact Angela Burnett or
Gillian Green in the Road Safety Team (0191 4333106 / 4333160) for more information.

Saturday 20th January
7pm
Low Fell Library
Durham Road

Refreshments served

An audience with Martyn Waites is entertainment! He brings his books to life, drawing on his previous professions: bar manager, stand-up comic, actor, drama teacher and you may even have bought a leather coat from him at
Newcastle Quayside market!

Martyn Waites was born and raised in Newcastle upon Tyne. His first novel, Mary's Prayer, a hard-hitting gangland thriller set in the North East of England, came out in 1997. The second, Little Triggers, appeared a year later. A third, Candleland, followed in 2000. He then turned away from crime fiction and wrote a novel based around the miners' strike and its legacy, the critically acclaimed Born Under Punches. His next novel The White Room, set in Newcastle in the 1960s and based on the life of pre-teen child killer Mary Bell came out in 2004 and was one of The Guardian's books of the year. Bolstered by a CWA Dagger Award nomination he returned to crime fiction in 2006 with The Mercy Seat, the first in a series featuring troubled investigative journalist Joe Donovan and his team. The second Donovan novel, Bone Machine, has just been released.

He lives, along with his wife, children and collection of 1970s horror films in Hertfordshire and his childhood dreams of playing Doctor Who and scoring the winner for Newcastle United in the FA Cup final remain unfulfilled.

West Street, Gateshead

The Christmas menu is now being served in the Coffee Rooms in the restored Victorian splendour of the Old Town Hall.

Parsnip & Cranberry Tart
Pan Fried Salmon with Orange and Cranberry
Turkey Stuffing and Chiplota

All served with roast potatoes, parsnips and other seasonal vegetables

£5.95

The snack menu also has a seasonal flavour:

Plum & Brandy Pate £4.50
Turkey and stuffing bap £2.70
Hot Turkey, stuffing and gravy ciabatta £3.90

Warm mince pies and cream £1.90
Christmas Pudding and custard £2.95

There's no need to book.

For more information, call the Coffee Rooms on 0191 477 6090.

Why not see a festive film next-door too? www.tynecine.org

News from Gateshead Visitor Centre...

For those of you who haven't visited us yet, bargains are being snapped up quicker than you can say 'Jack Frost' - so make tracks, forget The MetroCentre and get down to The Visitor Centre to get in the festive mood.

Join us for lunchtime refreshments while you browse for bargains in the tranquil atmosphere of the former St. Mary's Church. Remember, this is our biggest ever clearance sale with an exciting array of quality crafts and gifts, many reduced to half price or less - and when they're gone, they're gone!

Whether it is that exclusive gift of beautiful designer jewellery, glass or ceramics you are after, or fun and novelty stocking fillers starting from just 10p, why not make us your first stop for a unique Christmas shopping experience.

Also, for those of you who have never been to Gateshead Visitor Centre before - time is running out before its closure for redevelopment into Gateshead Heritage Centre. So take this opportunity to experience this beautiful historic building in it's current form and then witness the exciting transformation for 2008, which will be an important part of Gateshead's rich history and regeneration.

The sale runs from Tuesday 7th November to Friday 22nd December - hope to see you soon!

Gateshead Visitor Centre is open:
Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm
Sunday 11am - 5pm

Located off St. Mary's Square, opposite The Sage Gateshead

Gateshead Visitor Centre
St. Mary's Church
Gateshead, Tyne & Wear, NE8 2AU
Telephone: +44 (0)191 478 4222
Fax: +44 (0)191 478 7983

Email: tourism@gateshead.gov.uk

11 November 2006 – 11 February 2007

Family ticket
(1 adult + 3 children)
£25.95 - Skate and Life
£17.95 - Skate
£19.95 - Life

Family ticket
(2 adults + 2 children)
£26.95 - Skate and Life
£18.95 - Skate
£19.95 - Life

Adult
£8.95 - Skate and Life
£5.95 - Skate
£6.95 - Life

Child*
£6.95 - Skate and Life
£4.95 - Skate
£4.50 - Life

Under 4s
£4.95 - Skate and Life
£4.95 - Skate
Free - Life

Concessions
£7.95 - Skate and Life
£5.50 - Skate
£5.50 - Life

*Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult when skating.

Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more when they pre-book.

Opening Times:

Ice rink
Mon/Tues/Wed/Sat: 10am – 8pm

Thurs/Fri: 10pm - 9pm

Sun: 11pm - 7pm

Centre for Life
Mon – Sat: 10am – 6pm
Sun: 11am – 6pm

Please note the Centre for Life and the Ice Rink will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Contact information:

T: (0191) 243 8210 E: info@life.org.uk W: www.life.org.uk

ANGELMOTH
A fairytale fantasy for all ages.

Presented by balletLORENT

Amidst the silence of the dusty books something magical is about to happen…

Pippanouska is a shadow of the happy child she once was.
In the library where she works a band of regular customers come to seek solace and take refuge from the real world. But their lives are about to undergo a breathtaking transformation when they encounter the Angelmoth, an ethereal butterfly-like creature who leads them on a fantastical journey of escapism and wonder.

Award winning dance company balletLORENT invite you to explore a world of secret dreams and fears. Meet an extraordinary messenger in this bittersweet tale and explore the potential in all of us with the Angelmoth…

If you catch one….they’ll change your life forever.

Choreography created by Liv Lorent and the balletLORENT dancers
Costume design and realisation by Paul Shriek
Lighting design created by Malcolm Rippeth
Set design by Phil Eddols
Music composed by Andy Ross
Story by Ben Crompton
Production Manager Graeme Nixon
Image by Bill Cooper

"As a choreographer, Lorent thinks squarely outside of the box - nothing here is as you would expect." The List

Performances - 13th – 16th December at 1pm and 7.30pm at
DanceCity, Temple Street, NE1 4BR

Tickets £12.00 / £8.00 concession
Please call the box office for details - 0191 261 0505

Produced in association with Dance City

An Inter-Agency Group Conference

Care Matters: The Next Steps
in association with the National Children’s Bureau and Community Care
Monday 26 February 2007, Queen Elizabeth II Centre, Westminster, London

10% discount if you book before 15 December

The Inter-Agency Group, in association with NCB and Community Care, would like to welcome you to Care Matters: The Next Steps, the seminal event on children in care for spring 2007, offering you and other senior-level representatives, a final opportunity to contribute to the future agenda of children in care.

Care Matters: Transforming the Lives of Children and Young People in Care, has the potential to greatly improve the life chances of this vulnerable group of children and young people. IAG consulted closely with the Government on developing the Green Paper reforms and is now working to involve the whole sector in the consultation process.

Care Matters: The Next Steps, will take place in February 2007 and is timed to follow the Government’s formal consultation, giving you an immediate opportunity to respond to the proposals and the work of the four Green Paper Working Groups, direct to their Chairs.

You will hear from the key national players working for children in care including:

*Rt Hon Beverley Hughes MP, Minister of State for Children, Young People and Families (invited)
*John Coughlan, Joint President, Association of Director’s of Children’s Services and IAG Chair
*Martin Narey, Working Group Chair and Chief Executive, Barnardo’s
*Lord Herbert Laming, Working Group Chair and Chair of the Victoria Climbie Inquiry
*Dame Pat Collarbone, Working Group Chair and Executive Director of the Training and Development Agency for Schools

Why attend Care Matters: The Next Steps?

*Influence the four Working Groups and hear progress reports on their work so far
*Top level figures from across the public and voluntary sector will share their views and ideas and the Green Paper reforms
*Take this final opportunity to contribute to the future agenda of children in care

For further details and to book a place please see the attached booking form and return to the NCB Conference Department at 8 Wakley Street, London, EC1V, 7QE, e-mail: conferences@ncb.org.uk, fax: 020 7843 6039 or call 0207 843 6441 (enquiries only).

Download file

Lust: Carnal Knowledge

Dr Petra Boynton

Tuesday 5 December 2006, 6pm

Join us for an evening with Dr Petra Boynton, a researcher into sex and relationships and the UK’s first evidence-based agony aunt. A lecturer in International Health Services Research at University College London, Dr Boynton was named Campaigner of the Year 2004 in the International Erotic Awards for bringing sex research and evidence to the public via the media.

Her lecture will reveal how much you really know about the science of sex and relationships and unveil the truth behind some age-old myths…..

Wrath: Road Rage - Losing Control at the Wheel

Dr Lisa Dorn

Thursday 18 January, 6pm

Dr Lisa Dorn, presenter of BBC TV’s Road Rage School, is director of the Driving Research Group at Cranfield University. Her lecture will investigate the causes of anger behind the wheel. Why do so many people lose control – a staggering 80% of Britains claim to have experienced road rage, the highest in Europe – and how this can be prevented?

Sloth: Why do we sleep?

Professor Jim Horne

Tuesday 6 February, 6pm

Napoleon advocated “six hours sleep for a man, seven for a woman and eight for a fool�. Professor Jim Horne, Director of Loughborough University’s Sleep Centre, will talk us through the fascinating and enigmatic world of sleep, covered in his new, popular book, 'Sleepfaring’ - a journey through the science of sleep'.

Pride: The Rise of the Robots

Professor Kevin Warwick

Tuesday 27 February, 6pm

Pride comes before a fall….As the human race strives to improve the way our bodies perform, this lecture will examine the rise of the Cyborg. With extra sensory abilities, upgraded brains and the ability to communicate by thought alone, will Cyborgs become the superhumans of the future?
Professor Kevin Warwick claims to be the world’s first human cyborg. He has had a microchip surgically implanted into his central nervous system and has devised a way of making electrical impulses from his brain operate a robot arm, with implants which connect directly to computers. He is Professor of Cybernetics at the University of Reading, where he carries out research in artificial intelligence, control, robotics and biomedical engineering.

Gluttony: Drinking and Eating, How Much is Too Much?

Professor Oliver James
20 March 2007, 6pm

Many say that the UK is becoming a nation of obese binge drinkers. What lies behind this unhealthy phenomenon, to what extent is it true and how much harm to health can drinking and eating to excess do?
Professor Oliver James, Provost of the Medical School at Newcastle University will examine some possibly surprising messages for our long term health in the light of the current increase in UK alcohol consumption, teenage binge drinking, and the nations growing waistline.

Greed: Risking it All.

Professor Mark Griffiths and Dr John Haigh
1 May 2007, 6pm

Join us for a night at the casino (with no money changing hands, of course), and discover what drives people to take huge risks, and sometimes, risk it all when they gamble.
Mark Griffiths, Professor in Gambling Studies at Nottingham Trent University and Dr John Haigh, Lecturer in Statistics at University of Sussex will talk about the psychology of gambling, why humans like a flutter and what chance you really stand of beating the dealer.

Please note: Booking is essential for this event as spaces are limited. To book call (0191) 2438210

For more information and a list of other lectures in the Lectures@Life series, visit www.life.org.uk or telephone the customer information line on (0191) 243 8223.

Tel: (0191) 234 8208 Email: katie.oneill@life.org.uk
Life – A Centre for world-class science

The Northumbria in Bloom Calendar.

An ideal present, this colourful calendar has been designed by children between the ages of 4-18 years and features an array of bright floral paintings. It also comes complete with 12 postcards. At only £2, it’s a great gift.

To purchase your calendar contact Celia Hunter, Gateshead Council Events Team on 0191 433 6908

Thursday 7th December 2006

Darlington Football Club

10.30am - 4pm

· Are you struggling to meaningfully involve Children and Young People in your work?
· Would you like to be networked more effectively so that you can share your frustrations and achievements with others working in children and young people's participation?

· Have you heard about 'Participation' but don't really know what it is and would like to find out more?
The Regional Active Participation Group (RAP) can help you with all these things. This growing network for the North East of England includes professionals crossing all sectors and age groups of children and young people. From your local health service to your local strategic partnership, more and more people are required to consider the views of children and young people and involve them in decision-making.

Read on for more...

The Winter's Sale...

You've heard of 'The Winter's Tale' - well this is 'The Winter's SALE'! Gateshead Visitor Centre is soon to be developed into Gateshead Heritage Centre and we need to reduce stock levels, so this is our biggest ever clearance sale with an exciting array of quality crafts and gifts, many reduced to half price or less - What an opportunity!

With beautiful designer glass, ceramics, jewellery and gifts galore to fill many a stocking, why not make us your first stop for a unique Christmas shopping experience.

The sale runs form Tuesday 7th November to Friday 22nd December.

Gateshead Visitor Centre is open:
Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm
Sunday 11am - 5pm

Located off St. Mary's Square, opposite The Sage Gateshead

Gateshead Visitor Centre
St. Mary's Church
Gateshead, Tyne & Wear, NE8 2AU
Telephone: +44 (0)191 478 4222
Fax: +44 (0)191 478 7983

Email tourism@gateshead.gov.uk

Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th November 2006
10.00am - 6.00pm

Under Byker Bridge between Seven Stories and the Cluny venue.

Jewellery, painting, ceramics, furniture, fine art, glass, mosaics, metalwork, workshops, live music, theatre.

Free children's workshops (accompanied by an adult).
Mosaic-making - Saturday 25th 11.00am - 12.00noon
Christmas in a box - Saturday 25th 11.00 - 12.00 and Sunday 26th 2.00pm - 3.00pm
Mask-making - Saturday 25th 2.00pm - 3.00pm
Artscope - Saturday 25th 11.00am - 12noon
Puppet-making - Saturday 25th 11.00am - 12noon and Sunday 26th 11.00am - 12noon and 1.00pm - 2.00pm

Adult life drawing - Sunday 26th 11.00am - 12noon

To book, call 0191 261 5666 or email info@36limestreet.co.uk

There will be live music and food and drink too!
www.36limestreet.co.uk

Stock sale in Caedmon Hall, Central Library, Prince Consort Road

Friday 24th November, 9.30am - 7.00pm
and
Saturday 25th November 9.30am - 1pm

Admission free

Books, CDs, Videos, Crafts and Gifts.

Foundation Stage-Early Years/KS1/KS2 Music

We're pleased to announce a whole day course for teachers led by Kevin Hamel (author of the critically acclaimed website www.tuned-in.org) and Zozo Shuaibu - a fun, hands-on exploration of the tuned-in resource, offering know-how, support and tips for both the "terrified" and confident teacher.

November 13/14/15 2006
09.00-16.00
Gateshead City Learning Centre (Watermark)
FREE - Contribution to supply cost available

BOOK NOW - SPACES LIMITED
0191 4602900

Download Poster (Word: 124KB)

visit tuned-in.org online

Northern Film & Media, Regional Screen Agency for the North East of England, is pleased to announce that this year’s New Directions event will be held at the Arc, Stockton on-Tees, on Wednesday 6 December 2006.

The annual New Directions event is a day of screenings, discussions and workshops about participatory filmmaking with young people and communities. Packed full of ideas about how to go about planning and running fun and fulfilling film projects in the community, the theme of New Directions 2006 is IMPACT. We will explore with you the effects of filmmaking on the lives of participants as well as the affect their films can have upon wider communities and audiences.

If you are a youth or community worker interested in organising or supporting films or a film maker working in community settings then New Directions 2006 is for you.

Full programme information out lining speakers, workshops and screenings will be announced on Monday 6 November 2006 along with full booking details.

To register interest and sign up for updates please e-mail roxana@northernmedia.org

www.northernmedia.org

Monday 6 November, 2006

Don’t miss a great opportunity to meet award winning writer and illustrator, Debi Gliori, author of the amazing Pure Dead series as she talks about her latest book, Deep Fear.
Followed by book-signing. Visiting school groups can enjoy a self-led tour of the Galleries before the event.
Times: 10 – 12 noon and 12.30 – 2.30pm
Suitable for ages 9 - 11, KS2
Pre-booking required; telephone 0845 2710 777
Supported by Random House Children’s Books
www.sevenstories.org.uk

Active Kidz October Half Term Holidays
Monday 23 - Friday 27 October

Get the kids active this half term at one of the many courses planned across all our leisure facilities.

There’s something for everyone, from football, basketball, hockey, skiing, rugby, swimming and lots, lots more!

If the kids are water babies, then there’s plenty of water activities too. Whether they’re learning to swim or want to take part in Aqua Games. They can even learn lifeguarding skills at one of our Rookie Lifeguard Courses taking place at Gateshead Leisure Centre and Dunston Pool. All this and more!

For full details on all courses and activities contact your local leisure facility or visit www.gateshead.gov.uk

Bring your pack to see the Wolves

Tue 17 – Sat 21 October at 7pm

Thu 19 and Sat 21 October at 2pm

Join Northern Stage next week as the Wolves come sneaking and creeping out of the walls in Improbable and National Theatre of Scotland’s acclaimed stage adaptation of Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean’s popular children’s book.

To make things a little easier on your pocket in the run up to half term, they have a fabulous new family ticket. Two adults and two children can come for the special price of just £30. If you want to invite your friends, then it will only cost £10 per extra adult and £5 per child up to a maximum of eight people.

Just choose the ‘Family Special’ ticket price when you book online or call our sales team at Northern Stage on:
0191 230 5151.

On Saturday 28th October at 2pm The Art Works Galleries at the top of Stepney Bank will be inviting people to come and carve a pumpkin which will be lit and displayed in the ‘Sculptured Eye’ courtyard on November the 5th.

Tickets are £5 per person and £10 a family. For this you get your pumpkin, carving tools and delicious pumpkin soup. If you’d like to add something to your pumpkin in the form of accessories this would be very welcome. The Art Works Galleries will be presenting £25 cash prizes for the most scary, ugly, cute and happy pumpkin and there is no age restriction.

Places restricted to 100 participants, to book your place email: info@theartworksgalleries.com or call (0191) 2619922.

http://www.theartworksgalleries.com

The Art Works Galleries
Stepney Bank
Ouseburn
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 2NP

Opening hours 10am - 5pm Tuesday to Saturday.

“This is a new theatre and a great show. Get along� said Dave Whetstone in The Journal about Kneehigh Theatre’s Cymbeline at Northern Stage, and the Sunday Times said: “Don’t miss it if the tour comes anywhere near you.� Cymbeline runs until Saturday 7 October, including a matinee on Saturday afternoon at 2pm. If you’ve already seen the show you’ll know it’s great. If you haven’t, then bring your partner, your best friend or your Mum because Cymbeline is sending audiences of all ages smiling and laughing from the theatre. We are offering a limited number of “2 for 1� tickets on top price seats until the end of the run.

Forget fay fal-de-rals and polite prithee this or that, this is a fantastic fresh take on Shakespeare’s brilliant story. Every performance at Northern Stage has finished with a standing ovation. Call the Sales Team on 0191 230 5151 and ask for the “2 for 1� offer on Cymbeline. This offer is only available by phone and not online.

18th-23rd September.

In addition to writing workshops with John Murray, Marion Husband and Charles Fernyhough on Friday 22 we have programmed a FREE Career Development Workshop for Writers with consultant Jane Dancer.

On Tuesday 19 join join novelists Kitty Fitzgerald and John Murray as they read from their recent novels and talk about their experiences on the path to publication.

Described by Jonathan Coe as “one of the best comic writers we’ve got�, Cumbria-based John Murray is the author of seven critically acclaimed novels including John Dory, Jazz Etc. and most recently A Gentleman¹s Relish (Flambard) which was published in June 2006.

Kitty Fitzgerald was born in Ireland and raised in Yorkshire. She has written drama for the BBC, for the theatre and for film, as well as fiction and poetry. Her most recent and breakthrough novel Pigtopia (Faber & Faber) won second place in the US Barnes & Noble's 2005 Discover Awards for new fiction.

On Saturday 23 don¹t miss your opportunity to win a ‘free read’ worth £250 from The Literary Consultancy when the London-based critique service presents a day-long event for new writers that will explore the publishing process. If you want to know more about how to get published, this day is for you.

With agent Broo Doherty, publishers Maria Rejt (Macmillan) and Emma Hargrave (Tindal St Press) along with The Literary Consultancy team, who will debate what is going on in the literary marketplace today. Is the publishing industry as London-centric as many claim? Is the kind of work getting published increasingly predictable? Are small presses making a comeback? How difficult is it for first-time writers to get their work noticed?

With opportunities to question the panel and learn useful tips for pitching your novel.

Literaturetraining will be on hand during the day, manning an information point for professional development with reference publications, writers' magazines, training information etc and offering half hour one-to-one information and advice sessions, bookable on the day.

Saturday 23 September 10-4pm
Tickets: £10/9
Booking: 01325 486 555

For any further information contact sandra@newwritingnorth.com

Tel: 0191 488 8580 or Mob: 07866 738 01

Saturday 30th September - Saturday 4th November 2006

Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm
Admission free

Newcastle Arts Centre
67 Westgate Road
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 1SG
0191 261 5618

website: www.newcastle-arts-centre.co.uk
email: gallery@newcastle-arts-centre.co.uk

This exhibition is the result of a purchase of a box of lantern slides bought in a local auction room. Catalogued as 'views of London theatres etc.' it did not attract much interest but we were soon to discover
that this decayed and dusty box is very unusual. To anyone interested in the history of photography a common frustration is that most photographs are anonymous and undated and this small collection is rare because most
of the slides are named and dated. Montague Wickham had set himself the task of being expert at night photography and producing a lecture set of London scenes which was presented with notes about night photography. The
pictures, taken 1912/13 just before the First World War, are images full of atmosphere with a wealth of historic detail. They show a City experimenting with the new electric light and a night life of window shopping and crowds
promenading through the extraordinary pleasure domes of the White City. The 'Criterion' flanked by early cars and Victorian hansom cabs proclaims 'Our Sovereign, the Glory of our Empire' and features an sign illustrating a
'Dreadnought' Battleship above the Restaurant entrance, while in the Theatre, George Bernard Shaw's 'Arms and the Man ' is playing! Another picture, taken on the corner of Tottenham Court Road, shows the entrance to the Central Line Tube Station. Clearly visible on an office window is a sign for Ernst Leitz the German company of microscope makers who would a few years later create the world's most famous 35mm camera the Leica. Wickham was a very able photographer both as a technician and a picture-maker. He must also have been fairly wealthy as he specifies the use of rare and expensive wide aperture lenses to be used fully open to capture people. It's certain that he would have used a small quarter plate camera on a tripod and that exposures ranged between a few seconds and twelve minutes.

Much mystery remains about Montague Wickham and his passion for photography, we guess that his home was in the North East and we know that he was a member of the Edinburgh 'CPS' from 1911. In addition we have a few pictures taken by him in Birmingham in 1912. If anyone has more information on MW or a history of the White City, please contact Mike Tilley at Newcastle Arts Centre. 0191 2615618 or e-mail, mike@newcastle-arts-centre.co.uk
The slides have been digitally copied and restored using 'Photoshop' and printed at Newcastle Arts Centre with pigmented inks. The images are now archived on CD and the exhibition prints are expected to last in
excess of 75 years if kept in normal museum conditions. The restored images are copyright Newcastle Arts Centre 2002 and prints are for sale at sizes up to 600 x 500cm.

Exhibition first shown November 2002 and revised October 2006

Shipley Art Gallery, Prince Consort Road
Gateshead
Tuesday 3rd October 2006
7pm
Free - just turn up.

Janet Brown of the War Memorials Trust will give a talk about how we can care for our memorials and what they mean to us.

Here is the website for this year's Durham Literature Festival:
http://www.literaturefestival.co.uk/index.html

GATESHEAD CHRYSANTHEMUM & DAHLIA SOCIETY SHOW
Saturday 9 September 1pm - 4pm & Sunday 10 September 9am - 4pm
The Grove, Saltwell Park
Flower show with amateur exhibits in flower, vegetable, bakery and handicraft item classes. Suitable for all the family. Free

SHIBDON POND HIDE EVENT
Sunday 10 September, drop in between 10am and 3pm
Shibdon Pond Local Nature Reserve Hide
A chance to look at the birds, especially waders, with experts on hand to answer your questions and point out the birds. Please bring binoculars. Suitable for all the family. Free. For information tel: 01207 545212

COUNTRY CRAFTS & GREEN WOODWORKING GROUP
Mondays - 11 September 10am - 3pm, Bill Quay Community Farm
Come along and learn traditional country skills and wood turning. Suitable for adults
Free. For information tel: Jayne Calvert 0191 433 3524

COUNTRYSIDE SCAVENGER HUNT
Sunday 17 September, start any time between 1pm and 2.30pm
Start at Derwenthaugh Park car park, Winlaton Mill
Look closer at the countryside and try and win a book token! Take part in this
scavenger hunt and look for clues and information along a three mile trail around Derwent Walk Country Park and Derwenthaugh Park.
Some steps and steep gradients. Suitable for all the family.
Cost £1. For information tel. 0191 414 2106

THE NATIONAL FAMILY HISTORY FAIR
Saturday 9 September, 10am - 4.30pm, Gateshead International Stadium
Cost: £3 accompanied children under 15 free.
http://www.nationalfamilyhistoryfair.com/

THE ALLOTMENT - New Perspectives Theatre Company
Thursday 14 September, 6pm, Brandling Community Centre, Church Place, Felling
A comedy about war, displacement, asylum and compost heaps a play to make audiences laugh out loud one minute and wipe away tears the next - tough, unsentimental, full of heart. Four strangers drawn from four war-torn corners of the world into the plans of a middle-aged sociology student convinced that gardening holds the key to healing shattered lives.
Family show particularly suitable for 15 years +

PAPA PLEASE GET THE MOON FOR ME - Travelling Light Theatre Company
Saturday 14 October, 10.30am, Caedmon Hall, Gateshead Central Library
Monica longs to play with the moon, so her ather sets out on a remarkable journey to make her wish come true. Papa Please Get The Moon For Me will delight the youngest audiences as it explores the fascination we all have with the beautiful waxing and waning moon; through physical storytelling, live music and dance.
Family show particularly suitable for 3 - 6 year olds. Box Office 0191 433 8420

GRANNY VAMPIRE - Moby Duck Theatre Company
Saturday 14 October, 10.30am , Tyne View Primary School, Rose Street
My Nan's a vampire! How cool is that? Sunita is dead excited about going to visit her family village in India but when she gets there, Grandma's a big disappointment. She's vegetarian, faints at the sight of blood and doesn't even wear her feet backwards - the way all self-respecting Indian vampires should. A blend of storytelling with South Asian dance, live music, digitally generated projections and haunting, evocative masks. Start your Hallowe'en celebrations with Moby Duck's unmissable performance! Family show particularly suitable for 8 - 11 year olds.
Box Office 0191 433 8420

ROBINSON CRUSOE - Intext Performance
Saturday 14 October, 10.30am, Carr Hill Primary School, Carr Hill Road, Deckham
An actor has been touring in a play about Robinson Crusoe. Now he is on his way home, but after a storm he is stranded in an airport on the far side of the world. He begins to tell the classic story and talks to the audience about himself and his family at home. Episodes from Daniel Defoe's classic are re-told alongside a more personal, modern tale of loneliness, isolation, friendship and families. Family show suitable for 9 - 11 year olds. Box Office 0191 433 8420

NATIONAL MOTHWATCH NIGHT
Saturday 23 September, 7.30pm to late! Shibdon Pond Local Nature Reserve
A rare opportunity to explore the mysterious and fascinating world of moths. Suitable for all the family. Cost £1 Numbers are limited, please book in advance, tel. 01207 545212

GATESHEAD AND DISTRICT ALLOTMENTS OPEN SHOW
Saturday 23 September 1pm - 4pm
Sunday 24 September 9am - 4pm
The Grove, Saltwell Park
Flower show with range of amateur exhibits
Suitable for all the family. Free.
Contact Gateshead Council Events Team 0191 433 6900

TESCO MINI & JUNIOR GREAT NORTH RUN
Saturday 30 September from 11.30am
Newcastle and Gateshead Quaysides
Free to spectators

www.gateshead.gov.uk

REVOLUTION
by Artizani Street Theatre
Saltwell Park, North Fields, Gateshead
FREE
Sunday 10th September
Shows at 12.30pm & 2.30pm

Revolution is a comic and touching epic of passionate doomed love set on an ever-changing carousel, performed by Artizani, a company specialising in outdoor entertainment and circus.The show is performed on an incredible revolving stage which rattles around changing pace and direction, apparently powered by bicycle. The audience is treated to poignant performances, lightning-fast scene changes and surreal visual images. The witty original script shows that love is as foolish as you always thought! From honeymoon to ironing room the story ends in an unexpected redemption, and a spectacular finale every bit as extravagant as a Busby Berkeley classic.
Part of 'Prepare for TakeOff'.TakeOff is part of NewcasleGateshead’s world-class festivals and events programme.

Suitable for families
For further information please call Sue Hurrell on 0191 433 6918

Mapping the Streets

21 - 24 September 2006

Mapping The Streets is the first International Conference of world streets arts, drawing delegates, participants and performers from Europe, Australasia and the Americas, North and South.

The Conference aims to celebrate international street arts and also to discover something about its origins and the way it has developed into a global expression of culture, which is popular and accessible.

Taking place at The Sage Gateshead and Stockton on Tees’ Wynyard Hall, Mapping the Streets will also feature a series of public performances at various locations.

Delegate places for Mapping the Streets are strictly limited to 240. www.mappingthestreets.org

This summer Seven Stories has an action packed holiday programme to engage and delight visitors, and there are still two weeks of Knickerbocker Glory book-based fun to go! Log onto our website for full listings.

And the fun doesn’t stop there. Just look what’s on this Autumn…

Seven Stories from Seven Stories

Join us for some very special author events linked to Seven Stories from Seven Stories, a new series starting on ITV on Sunday 3rd September. Top writers, illustrators and actors from the region have come together to create new stories based on the seven basic plots of story: Quest, Tragedy, Voyage and Return, Overcoming the Monster, Rebirth, Comedy and Rags to Riches. Authors including David Almond, GP Taylor and Melvin Burgess will be visiting Seven Stories throughout the autumn and into 2007. Check out our website for more details.

New Beginnings with Adam Bushnell – Sunday 3 September

The Summer holidays draw to an end and new beginnings are upon us. Listen, join in and create stories old and new at Seven Stories. Tales that will guarantee to start the new school year with smiles on many a face. Sessions at 1pm, 1.45pm & 2.30pm. Suitable for a family audience. 5+

Roald Dahl Day – Wednesday 13 September

To celebrate what would have been the 90th birthday of Roald Dahl, Seven Stories is offering a special programme of activities for schools and groups and visitors throughout the week. Roald Dahl Day is being celebrated nationally. For more details log onto www.roalddahlday.info.

Roald Dahl Day weekend celebrations Sept 10 & 11 and Sept 17 & 18

Come dressed as your favourite Dahl character. Prizes will be available each day for the best costume. Why not come in yellow, Roald Dahl’s favourite colour? We have classic party games with a wacky Dahl twist, including pin the ears on the BFG! There are hands-on drop in activities relating to Dahl’s colourful characters and you could meet Willy Wonka or Mrs Twit!

Roald Dahl Day School and Group Programme Monday – Friday September 11, 12, 13, 14 & 15

Our school and group programme aims to celebrate the life and work of Roald Dahl through a variety of creative and fun activities. These include character building, party fun and a character collecting trail. Key stage 1 and 2. Please book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Call Alison Neill on 0845 271 0777 for more details.

Voyages Storytelling, in association with Universal Building Society – Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 September

Universal Building Society commences the second phase of its three year sponsorship of Seven Stories. The project aims to take children on a voyage of literary discovery to enlighten them about the arts, literature and creativity. Come along to a colourful, seafaring-themed weekend of events at Seven Stories. Children will be taken on a magical journey to search for hidden treasure and hear enchanting tales of voyages and adventure told by inspirational storytellers Pascale Konyn and Sudha Mooney. Please see the website for further details.

Nick Arnold & Tony de Saulles, Horrible Science Roadshow - Friday 22 September

Come for an entertaining evening event for adults and find out how Nick and Tony create the Horrible Science Roadshow together. Includes a Q & A session, a taster of the show and book-signing. Ideal for teachers, librarians, authors, illustrators and adults with an interest in children’s books. 6-7.30pm. Pre booking is advisable. £3.50, £2.50 annual pass holders. In association with Scholastic Children’s Books.

Nick Arnold & Tony de Saulles, Horrible Science Roadshow - Saturday 23 September

This crazy show and book signing, based on the Stunning Science of Everything Book from the multi-award winning Horrible Science series, explores a range of demonstrations, readings from the books and quizzes. Aimed at a family audience of children aged 6-13 and their parents. 11 am -12 noon. Pre booking is advisable. In association with Scholastic Children’s Books.

Stephen Potts - Wednesday 27 September, 12.30 – 2.30 pm.

Stephen Potts is a versatile and gifted writer whose first children’s book, Hunting Gumnor, was nominated for the Carnegie Medal. His latest page-turner, Abigail’s Gift, is a gripping historical adventure, partly set in modern times and spanning back two centuries. Abigail Jones has a rare gift – an imagination that transports her from the grey world of schoolwork into wild adventures and in particular, the story of Morag, a free-spirited girl from the Scottish Island of Mull in the 19th century keen to escape the poverty she lives in. ‘Exciting, poetic and mysterious’ Carousel.

Join Stephen Potts for a discussion about his writing, followed by book-signing. Open to school groups. Includes a gallery tour before the event. Suitable for KS2 ages 9-11. To book please call Alison Neill on 0845 271 0777. In association with Egmont Books.

Michelle Paver – 30 September

Join a family event with Michelle Paver, author of Wolf Brother and Spirit Walker, part of the acclaimed Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series. Come and celebrate the release of Michelle’s latest book Soul-Eater, and hear her talk about how she created the world of Torak, her love of wolves, her experiences researching pre-historic clans, her encounter with a bear and much more. Followed by book signing. Suitable for families and children 9+ at 11.00 am. Pre booking is advisable. In association with Orion Books.

Hidden Magic with Pascale Konyn - Sunday 1 October

Sunday Storytelling. At the red gold turning of the leaves, at the time when the dark nights grow longer, the air becomes crisp and it seems as if the earth and its creatures are preparing to sleep, what hidden happenings might there be beneath our feet, under our noses or maybe even in front of our eyes? Discover for yourself when you come and share some tales in the turning season. Sessions at 1pm, 1.45pm & 2.30pm. Suitable for a family audience.

Jackie Kay – Wednesday 4 October – Children’s Book Roadshow event

Join prize-winning poet and author Jackie Kay for a National Children’s Book Week event. Recently awarded an MBE for her services to literature, Jackie draws on personal experiences in her work. From 11am – 12noon in the Artist’s Attic, plus signing. Open to schools, groups and anyone interested in literature, age 7+. Pre booking is advisable.

Jackie Morris – Thursday 5 October

To celebrate National Poetry Day, award-winning illustrator Jackie Morris will be visiting Seven Stories. Jackie has illustrated over 30 children’s picture books including Can You See a Little Bear? The Seal Children and Lord of the Forest. To tie-in with the publication of Classic Poems, an illustrated anthology on 30 September, Jackie will be running a morning workshop for adults and a session for schools in the afternoon. Supported By Barefoot Books.

The workshop is for adults and young people with an interest in illustrating for children and runs from 11-12 noon followed by book-signing. Pre booking is advisable. To book please call 0845 271 0777.

The schools’ session is suitable for KS2/3, years 6-8, and runs from 12.30 - 2.30 pm. This includes a gallery tour before the event and book-signing with Jackie Morris. To book please call Alison Neill on 0845 271 0777.

Andy Stanton – Sunday 15 October

Join Andy Stanton, a regular member of the improv workshop The Crunchy Frog Collective, as his humour takes flight in his first book You’re a Bad Man, Mr Gum. In this tale of a fierce old man, Andy Stanton accumulates silliness and jokes in a laughter-inducing romp, with wild scratchy illustrations, daft asides to the reader, barmy tangents, one liners and a great song (The Sunday Times). Not to be missed. 3pm, ages 7+. Pre-booking advisable. In association with Egmont Books.

Last chance to catch Harry Potter manuscripts!

Don’t forget that September will be your last chance to see original work by JK Rowling for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Favourites with visitors have been her hand-written draft manuscript for Platform Nine and Three Quarters and her outline for Chapter 7 The Sorting Hat

The Incredible Journeys exhibition transports visitors into the magical worlds of story. It presents key books, manuscripts and artwork from the past 70 years including Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, The Borrowers, The Gruffalo, Fred, Avocado Baby, Danny the Champion of the World and The Little Wooden Horse.

Where pre booking is advisable, please call 0845 271 0777. Normal admission charges apply, unless stated. Please book early to avoid disappointment.

For updated information on events, please log onto our website: www.sevenstories.org.uk. Thank you.

An explosion of colour and shape in Saltwell Park
Sunday 27 August
12noon - 6pm
FREE
North Fields, Saltwell Park, Gateshead

Performance
Artist installations
Street Theatre
Music
Storytelling
Workshops

Bring your picnic and enjoy!

For further details contact Gateshead Council’s Arts Development Team on 0191 433 6927

Gateshead Sculpture Festival forms part of Newcastle Gateshead Initiative’s world class festivals and events programme.

For further information visit www.NewcastleGateshead.com or www.gateshead.gov.uk

A healthcheck by local government watchdogs says Gateshead Council is performing well and improving services for residents. Teams of Government inspectors from the Audit Commission visited the area earlier this year to assess how well it is doing as part of its performance checks on local councils and found its services were “good quality�.

The result is that Gateshead has achieved some of the highest grades in the country so far under the new inspection process.
Read on for the full results...

This story courtesy of Steve Heal in the Communications Team at Gateshead Council. The full story can be found, along with associated reports and all the Council services on the main website: www.gateshead.gov.uk

Felling Stage Society present Follies

from Tuesday 17th to Saturday 21st of October.
Weekday performances 7.15pm, Saturday 6.15pm.

at
The Dryden Centre
Evistones Road
Low Fell
Gateshead

Director: Wayne Shellard
Musical Director:Graham West

Tiered stalls: £8.00
Front stass: £6.00

Seniors: £6.50/£5.00 Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Children £6.50/£5.00 all week.

To book please telephone: 01207 270 596.

arcadea presents
the mimosa festival

arcadea is holding the mimosa festival throughout the month of September aimed at celebrating the artistic equality of disabled people across a range of venues and artforms, including Dance Art and Film at Dance City, Film, Theatre, An Evening of Divine Disabled Divas and The Metamorphosis Ball at The Sage Gateshead, Visual Art at both the AdHoc Gallery, Buddle Arts Centre and The Mushroom Works, Ouseburn, and an innovative programme of live art performance, live film performance, dance art and poetry at The Star and Shadow Cinema

For the full details and booking, see this attachment...

Download file

The Newcastle Arts Centre is pleased to invite you to a very special retrospective exhibition,
’40 Years at the Cutting Edge’ by Chris Penn.

Chris Penn is a renowned printmaker who specialises in the rare skill of copperplate engraving. Her subject matter is as diverse as the media she chooses to work in. Her engravings include a finished version of Albrecht Durer’s ‘Unfinished Crucifixion’ and her lino-cuts, pyrographs and painted wooden sculptures range from the traditional to her more hard hitting leftfield personal and political works.

Penn on her output;
“Looking back over forty years of continuous art production, the human form wins hands down! The medium, from large black and white engravings on lino, through hand-coloured copper engraving, to carved and painted wood is ever-changing but the subject, the human being, has remained the centre of each creation.
….Every emotion, political belief, religious ideal, can be expressed most poignantly using the human form as a scaffold, and if looked at carefully, much more can be communicated than by the written word.
…The art of engraving is in danger of extinction. No longer taught in art colleges, its painstaking technique is out of step in an age of split second throwaway images. Some of my engravings have as many as forty different motifs hand carved into a single copper sheet and the prints taken from them will respond to careful and repeated study.�

This exhibition is at Newcastle Arts Centre from the 2nd of August and will run until the 29th. The opening times are 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Saturday, admission is free.

To view images please visit:
http://www.newcastle-arts-centre.co.uk/06%20chris_penn.htm

Kind Regards
Mike Tilley

Tyne & Wear Learning Network

‘Discovering the training needs you didn’t know you had’

Date Tuesday 1st August 10.00am until 4.00pm
Venue Centre for Life, Conference facilities, Times Square, Newcastle. NE1 4EP
Map www.life.org.uk
Telephone 0191 2438284

See this attachment for more...

Download file

Whole Network Day Gathering, Saturday 2 September

9.30am - 4pm at The Sage Gateshead

Join us in celebrating MusicLeader North East's first year of activities
with a Whole Network Gathering at The Sage Gateshead.

The day is free and will include:

* Presentation by Katherine Zeserson on Understanding the Future
of Music Leadership

* "Life Changing" Workshops with Steve Lewis. A taster session
looking at what you REALLY want do with your life, using your
imagination to explore your dreams and fantasies, how you might
inadvertently sabotage your best intentions and how best to avoid this.

* Creative Evaluation - a two fold workshop that allows us to
evaluate our programme, whilst giving you an opportunity to experience
some new ideas and share good practice in Creative Evaluation.

* Nourish Your Own Creative Skills, including an introduction to
vocal health, steel pans, drumming and percussion and folk, leading to a
performance at the end of the day.

* Quick Fix Remedies. Take some time out at lunchtime to
reinvigorate yourself for the afternoon's activities, whilst reminding
yourself of the importance of remaining healthy in your work.

* Networking opportunities around a FREE lunch

Evaluation taken from the day will inform the future programme for
MusicLeader North East.

Download the booking form
%2F%2Fwww%2Emusicleader%2Enet%2Fcontent%2Easp%3FCategoryID%3D1148> from
the North East pages of www.musicleader.net to book your FREE place and
return to:

MusicLeader North East, Holy Jesus Hospital, City Road, Newcastle upon
Tyne, NE1 2AS

Email: musicleadernortheast@thesagegateshead.org
3Amusicleadernortheast%40thesagegateshead%2Eorg> Fax: 0191 443 4551

We look forward to seeing you on the 2nd of September.

All the best

from everyone in the MusicLeader North East Team

Louise Taylor

MusicLeader North East Coordinator

Walking Club
Kibblesworth Village Millennium Centre, Saturday 5 August, 10am - 3pm
Exploring GatesheadÕs countryside in all its glory between 5 and 7 miles over some uneven terrain and stiles. Free event. For information telephone Annabel on
0191 411 1375

Farm Life - Fields
Bill Quay Community Farm
Saturday 5 August, 10am - 12noon
A journey around the fields at the farm looking at history, folklore, management, boundaries and other field facts. Suitable for children 8 - 16 years. Cost £1.00 Numbers limited please book in advance, tel. 0191 433 5780

Explore & make sculptures inspired by the Park
drop-in sessions.
Monday 7 August
10am - 12.30pm
Saltwell Park bandstand in the Grove
With artist:Sam McGeever
In the event of bad weather the workshops will take place in the Training Room situated near the bowling greens.
Suitable for children aged 8 - 14 years old. No booking required.

Into The Deep
Thornley Woodlands Centre, off the A694 near Rowlands Gill
Thursday 10 August, 2pm to 4pm
Help to make an underwater scene that visitors can ÒswimÓ through for the rest of the holiday. Suitable for 5 years to 11 years. Cost £1. Numbers limited please book in advance. To book please call 01207 545212

Holiday Activities at Watergate
Watergate Forest Park, off Whickham Highway at the top of Lobley Hill
Tuesday 15 August, 2pm - 4pm
Wildlife crafts and games suitable for 5 - 11 years. Cost £1.00. Numbers limited please book in advance, tel. 01207 545212

Teddy Bears Picnic
Derwenthaugh Park, signed from the Winlaton Mill car park off the A694
Thursday 17 August, 12noon - 3pm
Bring your favourite bear and a picnic to enjoy an afternoon of bear activities. Suitable for all the family. Cost £1. Numbers limited please book in advance, tel. 01207 545212

Playday at Lamesley Pastures
Lamesley Pastures. Access from the car park of the Ravensworth Arms Hotel, Lamesley, Thursday 17 August, 1pm - 3pm
Make kites and play games with a nature theme. Free event. Numbers limited please book in advance, tel. Clare Ross 0191 433 3443 or Jayne Calvert 0191 433 3524

Explore & make sculptures inspired by the Park
drop-in sessions.
Saturday 19 August
10.30 - 1pm and 2pm - 5pm
With artists Joe Hiller and Paul Merrick
In the event of bad weather the workshops will take place in the Training Room situated near the bowling greens.
Suitable for families. Under 8Õs must be accompanied by an adult. No booking required.

Red Kite Safari
Thornley Woodlands Centre, off the A694 near Rowlands Gill
Sunday 20 August, 1pm - 4pm
A * mile walk with the Northern Kite project to look for red kites, spectacular birds that can be seen soaring above the woods and fields around Rowlands Gill. Suitable for all the family. Cost £1.00 Numbers limited please book in advance,

Explore and make sculptures inspired by the Park
drop-in sessions.
Tuesday 22 August
1.30 - 4pm
Saltwell Park bandstand in the Grove
In the event of bad weather the workshops will take place in the Training Room situated near the bowling greens.
Suitable for children aged 2 - 6. All children must be accompanied by an adult. No booking required.

One of Our Dinosaurs is Missing!
Thornley Woodlands Centre, off the A694 near Rowlands Gill
Thursday 24 August, 2pm - 4pm
Enter the Lost World of Thornley Wood where in a quiet corner of the wood a lonely dinosaur has survived for millions of years. The trouble is - we have to find it! Suitable for 5 - 11 years. Cost £2.00. Please book in advance, tel. 01207 545212

August Bank Holiday Flower & Vegetable Show
Saltwell Park
Saturday 26, Sunday 27 & Monday 28 August
For information tel. 0191 433 6900

Batwatch - Saltwell Park
Stable Block, Saltwell Park
Tuesday 29 August, 7.30pm - 10.30pm
After an introductory talk there will be a walk around the Park to watch bats hunt and feed on insects as darkness descends. Torch essential. Suitable for all the family. Cost £1.00. Numbers limited please book in advance, tel. Kelly Anderson 0191 433 5918

Pond Dip
Watergate Forest Park, off Whickham Highway at the top of Lobley Hill
Wednesday 30 August, 2pm - 4pm
A chance to delve into the underwater world of a pond. All equipment provided. Suitable for 5 - 11 years. Cost £1.00. Numbers limited please book in advance, tel. 01207 545212

Be a Wildlife Explorer
Norwood Nature Park. Access off Swallowtail Drive, Lobley Hill Road, Teams
Thursday 31 August, 1pm - 3pm
Be a wildlife explorer! Nature games, fun and discovery. Involves a 1/4 mile walk around the Nature Park. Free event. Numbers limited please book in advance, tel.
Clare Ross 0191 433 3443 or Jayne Calvert 0191 433 3524

http://www.sevenstories.org.uk

This summer we've a fantastic line up of activities and workshops for
you. In this edition you'll find all the latest information and don't
forget if you have any queries you can call us on 0845 271 0777 or email
info@sevenstories.org.uk.

Read on for the full programme...

Open this link to find out what Dance City has to offer over the summer!

http://www.dancecity.co.uk/summerschool.html

Northern Kites: Adopt-a-Kite Scheme
Looking for a unique way to get young people interested in local wildlife?
Then, why not get your school to adopt a red kite!

Red kites are magnificent birds of prey that are being reintroduced back into northeast England after an absence of 150 years! Northern Kites, the project returning these birds to our skies, provides an opportunity for schools to adopt one of the kites released in Gateshead’s Lower Derwent valley.

The scheme is free to join; all we ask is that schools give their kite a name. Schools will receive information about red kites, the Northern Kites Project, and individual updates on the whereabouts and activities of their adopted kite. They also receive an education resources pack linking kites with different elements of the National Curriculum through various classroom based activities.

More kites will soon be available for adoption. If your school is interested in adopting a kite, then please contact Melanie Hills, Access and Education Officer at the Northern Kites office for more information on (0191) 4961555 or email melanie.hills@rspb.org.uk For further information on the Project visit www.northernkites.org.uk

Northern Kites is a joint initiative between English Nature, Forestry Commission, Gateshead Council, The National Trust, Northumbrian Water and the RSPB with additional funding from The Heritage Lottery Fund and SITA Trust.

Northern Kites: Kite Watch Event

Come and see the first breeding red kites in northeast England for nearly 200 years!

The Northern Kites project has returned red kites to our region with the ultimate aim of re-establishing a breeding population. Two of the red kites released in Gateshead’s Lower Derwent Valley, as part of the Project, have successfully bred this year. The kites, named Flag and Red Philip by their Adopt-A-Kite schools, built their nest in close proximity to the Nine Arches Viaduct in the Derwent Walk Country Park. Even though the nest cannot be seen, good views are available of the parents bringing food in and out of the nest site.

As a result, Gateshead Council and Northern Kites are working in partnership to run a Kite Watch Event based at the Viaduct in the Derwent Walk Country Park. Visitors, including school groups can come along to see these special kites flying in the wild. The event is running from 10-5pm, everyday until the end of July 2006 with staff and volunteers on hand to provide information.

For further information on the event contact the Thornley Woodland Centre on 01207 545212 or the Northern kites office on 0191 4961555 or visit www.northernkites.org.uk
Northern Kites is a joint initiative between English Nature, Forestry Commission, Gateshead Council, The National Trust, Northumbrian Water and the RSPB with additional funding from The Heritage Lottery Fund and SITA Trust.

The Blast Tour has started, with the state-of-the-art truck offering free workshops, master classes and showcase opportunities across the UK. We have liaised with your regional offices and key organisations in each area and we will be delivering a very rich and exciting programme of activities. For more info check the website - young people can book online.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/blast/opportunities/blast_on_tour/

Minister for Veterans Tom Watson this week announced that the 26th of July would become Veterans' Day from now onward.

"I am keen that we should raise awareness of our veterans among young people, particularly those still at school and perhaps studying history. They should appreciate how the courage, bravery and personal sacrifices of their forebears ensured the conditions of freedom, democracy and prosperity that they enjoy today..."
Tom Watson on www.mod.co.uk

The Veterans Agency has published this PDF document for schools and community groups
http://www.veteransagency.mod.uk/veteransday/leaflet.pdf

There is also an art competition organised by the MoD, which could also become an annual event:
http://www.schools.mod.uk/veteransday/artcomp.html

These intiatives should be of use to schools under the social and cultural awareness and emotional literacy umbrellas.

The date was chosen to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the first presented Victoria Cross and on the same week as the anniversary of the Battle of the Somme in 1916.

You can no log on, find out what the ideal virtual school looks and sounds like on the Virtual Vision website and post a comment (scrolling to the Explore menu (right hand side) and clicking onto 'Thoughts and Ideas'):

Click onto:
www.virtual-vision.org

Virtual Vision - Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd of June 2006

We invite you to review our flagship project, where Gateshead teachers worked one-to-one with our Cultural Partners to create a virtual creative school, creative curriculum and creative management model.

Volunteers' Week (1-7 June) is the UK's annual celebration of the work volunteers do.
During the week, events are held across the country to recognise, reward and recruit volunteers. This web site provides a range of tools and resources to help you celebrate Volunteers' Week and the contribution that your volunteers have made.

http://www.volunteersweek.org.uk

ExploreMusic is a free music information and library service run by Gateshead Council and located at The Sage Gateshead. The idea came about 20 years ago during the conception of The Sage Gateshead when it was identified that there was a real demand for local information on music across the North East and Cumbria as well as facilities for people passionate about music, musicians themselves, or even those who don't know anything about music to learn more at their leisure.

ExploreMusic Online - Local music information at your fingertips!
www.gateshead.gov.uk/exploremusic

Read on for more...

The long-awaited sprint showdown between the two fastest men in the world will take place at the Norwich Union British Grand Prix at Gateshead International Stadium on the 11th June.
World 100m record holder Asafa Powell has confirmed he will run at the meeting, joining world and Olympic champion Justin Gatlin. This is the biggest 100m race at Gateshead International Stadium since Lewis v Christie back in 1993. The head-to-head encounter at Gateshead takes on an even greater significance after the pair recorded identical times in different races in the last few weeks. Gatlin clocked 9.95 seconds in Japan, the fastest 100m in the world this year, and that was matched by Powell who was competing in Jamaica on the same day.

A host of other international medallists will be competing as this world class event which returns to the North East for the first time since 2004. Tickets for the Norwich Union British Grand Prix, priced between £5 and £14, on Sunday 11 June at Gateshead International Stadium, are available by phone on 0870 402 8000 or online at www.ukathletics.net

Bygone Blaydon Burn
Saturday 10th June
1pm - 4pm

Local people will be given the chance to take part in a real archaeological dig in one of the region’s cradles of the Industrial Revolution. Exposing the past beneath your feet is one of the main attractions at a family event at Blaydon Burn in Gateshead.

Bygone Blaydon Burn, is being organised by Gateshead Council’s Countryside Team to give adults and children over 12 years old a rare glimpse of the area’s historic past.

As well as an archaeological dig, there will be loads of other activities including face painting, pottery, crafts, animals from the Bill Quay Farm, a treasure hunt and much more.

Also on offer will be short wildlife and history walks, all of them free-of-charge and there will also be traditional music from local folk musician Johnny Handle and the Geordie Road-Show Choir.

Refreshments will be available throughout the afternoon.

For transport details and further information read on or telephone the Countryside Team on 0191 433 3524.

Wednesday 28th June at 7pm
Hall One
The Sage Gateshead

The concert features a massed children's choir (450 voices) with Youth Orchestras, bands (swing and wind, string ensembles, celebrity soloist Margarette Ashton and compere Tony Wilson. There will be a strong Tyneside flavour - well known local songs - plus the first public performance of John Treherne's new work ' Peascod Time Variations for Orchestra.'
Tickets priced £7 are available from the Sage Gateshead BoxOffice tel 0191 443 4661

Junior Games ..............It's fun to run!

Why not encourage your children to take part in one of four Junior Games heats taking place throughout Gateshead next week?

Open to boys and girls 5 - 14yrs, the races are great fun, FREE to enter, and all runners receive a goodie bag!

Monday 22 May Ryton Comprehensive School
Tuesday 23 May Derwent Park, Rowlands Gill
Wednesday 24 May Oliver Henderson Park, Felling
Thursday 25 May Saltwell Park

To take part, simply turn up at any of the above heats and register at 5.30pm. Races start at 6pm.

Plus, winners of the heats will get the chance to compete in the Junior Games Challenge at Gateshead International Stadium on Sunday 11 June as a curtain raiser to the Norwich Union British Grand Prix.

For further details contact Cultural Services Events Unit on 0191 433 6900.

Thursday 22nd and Friday 23rd of June 2006

On these two dates fifteen Gateshead Cultural Ambassadors will descend on the City Learning Centre to make a creative school, creative curriculum and a creative management model. All this work will be made live via this very
website for your contributions and the final results will also be posted here until the end of the summer holidays, so check this site for regular updates.

As part of their Dancing the World programme, Dance City is running the following two dances, to which all are invited:

Afternoon Tea Dance, led by Maureen Flanigan
Friday 5th May
Caedmon Hall, Gateshead Central Library, Prince Consort Road
2pm-4pm
Bring your dancing shoes, no experience or partner necessary. Make new friends whilst dancing to the big band sound!

Tickets £4 from Caedmon Hall box office: 0191 433 8420 or Dance City: 0191 261 0505.

Ceilidh
with Hedgehog's Skin
Wednesday 31st May
Caedmon Hall, Gateshead Central Library, Prince Consort Road
7.30pm-10.30pm
Lively, easy dances with a well-loved ceilidh band and a caller to guide your though the movements.

Tickets £5 from Caedmon Hall box office: 0191 433 8420 or Dance City: 0191 261 0505.

A national competition for 11-16 year-olds.
Deadline: 26th May 2006.
Cameras and printers as prizes.
http://www.canon.co.uk/SchoolsPhotoComp/

What’s on: T.Rex: The Killer Question

When: Saturday 13 May to Sunday 10 September 2006

Where: Centre for Life, Newcastle upon Tyne

Admission: Adult £6.95

Child £4.50

Concession £5.50

Under 4s Free

Family £19.95 (2 adults and 2 children or 1 adult and 3 children)

Opening Times: Monday – Saturday 10am – 6pm*

Sunday 11am – 6pm*

* Last admission 4pm

Event Details

Take a look at one of the most terrifying creatures ever to walk the Earth and decide whether T. Rex was the king of the dinosaurs as history and Hollywood would have us believe or does new evidence point to a scavenger relying on easy pickings?

For further information or please call (0191) 243 8210 or visit www.life.org.uk

New Exhibition – Now Open

Let's see… There's ghosts and gorillas,
bandits, babies and burglars,
a wobbling waitress,
an aeroplane bird,
a jolly parachuting postman,
Oh yes… and a Thingy!

Meet this amazing cast of characters and many more at Seven Stories amazing new exhibition

What's in the book? The 17 million books of Janet & Allan Ahlberg.

For more information and a schedule of events, read on...

Look out for the latest postings on this site after the Easter weekend.

The Arts Development Team leave Gateshead Visitor Centre this week to join the rest of Cultural Services at their new home.

The new address is:

Arts Development Team
Gateshead Old Town Hall
West Street
Gateshead
NE8 1HE

Our new telephone numbers will be announced shortly.

Our fax number will remain the same and should be live again from Wednesday 29th March: 0191 490 1394.

An interactive, hands-on exploration of optics and senses.

Saturday 11th March to Sunday 23rd April

The DLI Museum & Art Gallery
Aykley Heads
Durham
DH1 5TU
T: 0191 384 2214
F: 0191 386 1770
W: www.durham.gov.uk/dli

Open every day from 10.00am - 4.00pm (until March 31st)
and from 10.00am - 5pm (from April 1st)

Adult £3
Adult concessions £2
Child £1.25
Family ticket £7

Shop, cafe, free parking.

As part of the Newcastle Science Festival our Cultural Partner Michael Freeman is leading free workshops...

Junk Music and Eco Magic
Saturday 11th March
Time:10:30 am
Entry: FREE
Venue: The Discovery Museum

Please note booking is required for this event.

Musician Martin Freeman and magician Martin Duffy will be using junk and recyclable materials to create music and magic. Audience members will be able to join in and create music and tricks themselves.

For further details please call 0191 277 2174 or e-mail discovery@twmuseums.org.uk

Learn shadow puppetry at Ridley Hall, Bardon Mill, Northumberland!
May 5th-7th 2006.
Background and form below:
Download file
Download file

"The Big Bad World"
at:

1pm Monday 27th March 2006 at Caedmon Hall,Gateshead
1pm Tuesday 4th April 2006 at the Buddle Arts Centre, Wallsend
1pm Wednesday 5th April at The Customs House, South Shields
1pm thursday 6th April at Alnwick Playhouse

Over the last nine months, Headway Theatre Co, in partnership with Cramlington Adult Training Centre, have worked with people of all abilities on a project designed to promote social inclusion and positive images of learning disability.The result is a vibrant and magical theatre performance which takes you on a journey around the world - through magic gardens, a bizarre bazarre, the coloured seas and icy fjords. The show includes live music, giant puppets and even a special appearance by King Kong!

It would be great if you could come along. We promise you will be thoroughly entertained. Tickets are free and available from the venue box office or from Headway Theatre Co. All the venues are fully wheelchair accessible. If you have any other special requirements or need directions to the venue please contact us on 01670 351962.

Hope you can make it.

Frances Allan
Director
Headway Theatre Co
46-50 Bridge Street
Blyth
Northumberland NE24 2AP
Tel 01670 351962
Fax 01670 367516

Download file

Insights 2006 - For art's sake
28th-29th March 2006
Bristol
A national conference for anyone working in socially engaged practice, interpretation, participation, community development or education within the arts.
http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/admin/preview.php?list=events&id=68

Following on from the public programme posting, here is the school programme preceded by a welcome letter.

Download file
Download file

Durham City Arts' Free Range Music project invites you to The Music
Hatchery, a three-day celebration of music for children and young people
in Durham.

The Music Hatchery offers an exciting variety of activities and
workshops for young musicians alongside a series of thought-provoking
seminars, discussion groups and networking opportunities for music
leaders, both professional and amateur. The Sharing Event marks a year
of workshops and events from Free Range Music and showcases musical
talent from our young people and professional acts from around the
world.

The Music Hatchery is packed with opportunities for young musicians to
work with some of the best musicians on the scene. These include young
American jazz trumpeter, composer and recording artist Abram Wilson,
exciting and unique Dutch brass trio De Jongens Driest and British world
music contemporary brass band The Real Macaws.

Music leaders, arts practitioners and music teachers will have the
opportunity to discuss some of the major issues regarding the provision
of music for young people. Discussion groups will be led by experienced
and professional music leaders and practitioners from across the UK,
including Pete Moser of the highly successful 'More Music in Morcambe'
project, Robin Osterley, Chief Executive of Making Music, the National
Federation of Music Societies and Nigel Greenwood of the Real Macaws and
Music Co-ordinator for Free Range Music.

The Music Hatchery will also include a keynote address by Colin
Brackley-Jones, Director of the National Federation of Music Services,
which will be supported by the 'virtual presence' of some of the leading
figures from the world of music, politics and public life.

This three-day celebration runs from Thursday 23rd - Saturday 25th
February 2006 and caters for professionals, volunteers and young people
of all levels of experience and confidence. For a full programme of
activities and more information regarding accomodation, contacts and
costs please visit our website through the link below. Discounted rates
are available for those working on a voluntary basis or for
non-profit/charitable organisations.

http://www.freerangemusic.org/music%20hatchery.htm

Rob Guest
Project Co-ordinator, Free Range Music
T. 0191 301 8245
E. info@freerangemusic.org

What’s on: THE NEWCASTLE SCIENCE FESTIVAL 2006
When: Saturday 11 to Sunday 19 March 2006
Where: Science events across the city for all audiences
Over 70 science events spread across 9 days, from family activities and events, to lectures, thought provoking debates and educational workshops for schools.

For the whole programme, continue reading..

ARTWORKS GATHERING DUST IN THE CORNER?
CD'S OR RECORDS YOU ARE BORED WITH?
HIGH HEELS YOU CAN'T WALK IN?
FURNITURE WHICH DOESN'T MATCH THE DÉCOR?
DESIGN CLASSICS YOU CAN'T STAND?
BOOKS YOU'VE ALREADY READ?
FILMS YOU'VE SEEN A MILLION TIMES?
COME AND EXCHANGE THEM FOR SOMETHING YOU REALLY WANT AT BALTIC'S CREATIVE SWAP SHOP ...

AT BALTIC - OPEN HOUSE EVENT
SATURDAY 18 FEBRUARY
10.00-18.00
ADMISSION FREE

The creative swap shop will take place on level 1, high quality swaps only - no broken/damaged or electrical items please - remember: the better swaps you bring, the better swap you'll get. Bring your items on the day and exchange one for one.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BALTIC'S OPEN HOUSE EVENT CLICK ON WWW.BALTICMILL.COM

Tell Your Friends and Family!
Come along to Gateshead Council’s
10th Employment Fair

Thursday 23rd February 2006, 10am-4pm
Swallow Hotel, Gateshead
Over 40 employers with a wide variety of jobs on offer
Free shuttle bus to the event from Stand N, Gateshead Interchange Bus Station every 10 minutes, 10am-3pm.

Want to know more?
Call the Economic Development Service on ext: 2082

Venue: Dance City, Temple Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4BR
Date: 18th February 2006
Time: The performance starts at 7.30pm

Tickets: £10 for adults and £5 for concessions, to purchase tickets please call
Dance City Box Office: - 0191 261 0505
For further info – 0191 4404124 or visit our website www.GemArts.org

Sonia Sabri is amongst the brightest and most inspirational of British born Indian dancers working today. This February GemArts and Dance City are bringing her new performance ‘RED’ to the North East. The show marks the first South Asian dance event to take place at the newly opened venue.

Sabri is part of a new generation of professional Kathak artists. Derived from the word ‘katha’, meaning the ‘art of storytelling’, Kathak dancing employs a combination of dancing, acting and singing making it one of the most dynamic performing arts in the world. Her work revisits the traditional structures of this classical North Indian dance, while integrating it with contemporary ideas and modern movement.

‘...a fine dancer, intense and intelligent...with her own drive and powerful personality...brimming with promise...make sure you catch her.’ The Times, UK

Friday 24th March
7.00pm
from £4 - £18
The BBC Concert Orchestra perform 'Ocean Wanderers - Sounds of the Sea': an evocative musical journey around Britain's coastline; with all proceeds going to the RSPB's marine conservation work.
The concert will be broadcast live on BBC Radio Two's Friday Night is Music Night programme.
Tickets from the Sage Gateshead box office on 0191 433 4661.

Our very own local history specialist, Mrs Anthea Lang will answering callers' queries about their family and local history on BBC Radio Newcastle on Thursday 9th February. Anthea will be a guest on the Paul Wappat show between 10am and 12noon.
To contact the station:
BBC Radio Newcastle, Broadcasting Centre, Barrack Rd, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne NE99 1RN
Tel: 0845 30 10 954 | Phone In: 0191 232 6565 | Text: 07786 200954
Textphone (for the hearing impaired): 0191 261 6717

To listen:
BBC Radio Newcastle
FM frequencies: 95.4, 96, 103.7 & 104.4
1458 Medium Wave

A date for your diary: bookings are now being taken for the 2006 INSET:

Creativity & Achievement: Inspirational Resources for Schools
Discovery Museum
Tuesday 21st March

Combine excellence in teaching with enjoyment in learning and find out more about improving your school’s access to cultural resources. ‘Creativity and Achievement’ is an INSET opportunity for all teachers, student teachers and support staff to find out more about all 11 of Tyne & Wear Museums’ venues.

Early Years, Key Stage 1, Key Stage 2, Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4, A/AS Level, INSET

Art, Citizenship, Design Technology, Geography, History, ICT, Literacy, Numeracy, Science

You will have the chance to:

• Investigate curriculum links from Foundation Stage to KS4 and beyond.

• Try out activities, handle objects and explore the ‘Boxes of Delight’ loans service

• Get tips on how to use objects in your teaching

• Find out about booking visits

• Discover more about our ICT and web-based museum resources

• Participate in 4 themed workshops

Book now to avoid disappointment!
Please contact the Learning Team at Discovery Museum for further details.
0191 232 6789.
http://www.twmuseums.org.uk/schools/resources/details.php?id=465&events=true

There are still some places left on BALTIC's CPD session this Thursday:

Thursday 19th January
Twilight Session for Primary and Secondary Art Teachers, Cultural Ambassadors and colleagues.
4.30pm-6pm. Refreshments will be served.
This session will involve looking ahead at the forthcoming exhibitions at BALTIC; there will be a hands-on practical session working with artist Ian Gonczarow, exploring identity and self which are some of the themes in the exhibitions.

To book a place, call BALTIC reception on 0191 478 1810 and ask for the education staff.
www.balticmill.com

The DLI Museum and Art Gallery, Killhope Lead Mining Museum, Beamish, The Bowes Museum and Binchester Roman Fort have a Spring schedule, attached.

Features include funding towards transport for school visits, case studies for KS4 Leisure and Tourism, the Victorians at Killhope and early entry to Binchester (nr. Bishop Auckland) before it opens to the public. There are also WWI & WWII themes at the DLI, and science at both Killhope and DLI.

Teacher-led visits are also possible (up to 35 children), but please let the Museum know that you are coming. Children £1.25 each and adults go free.

There is a Teachers Open Day at DLI on Saturday 18th February from 10am - 3pm. Entry is free to teachers and up to three members of their family (print off and bring the attachment). Find out what all the museums in the group have to offer your school. No need to book.