March 2004 newsletter:

Hello everyone in 2004!

Its been a whole year since I last wrote a newsletter but I’m back from maternity leave now after having Oscar last July, and doesn’t time fly! I’m getting back into the swing of things. If there's anything you would like me to include in the newsletter or if you have an idea for a fundraising event or any Playbus related matter give me a call on 01379 650746 or send an e-mail to sue@pyramidsplaybus.org.uk. Jackie will still be organising the Playscheme for this summer but I’d like to thank her for running everything so smoothly in my absence. Now here’s the Playbus news.

Nursery Grant, in the summer term all children who will be 3 on or before 31st March are entitled to free sessions on the Playbus. Claim forms for sessions specially extended to two and a half hours are available on the bus. Please remember that the extra half an hour is for these older children only. Other children you bring to the Playbus or who have been left with the Playleaders must be collected promptly to allow time for the Nursery Grant children to participate in specially planned activities, also please be punctual at the end of all sessions so that Sara and Jane have adequate time to travel to the next session and set up, or get home on time as they often work in the evening too attending training or meetings or preparing for the next days sessions.

Head injuries on the bus Stickers will now be placed on your child's clothing if they bump their head on the Playbus and you will be asked to sign an accident record form which will be in duplicate so that you can take a copy home. If you are unsure about what to watch out for after a head injury Sara or Jane will be happy to explain what symptoms top look for.

Evaluation

Please would you return all evaluation questionnaires for the annual evaluation, and the regular user evaluation if you had one, before the Easter holiday. The information assists in grant applications and provides evidence required by most grant giving bodies. If you haven’t had one and would like to complete one please ask Sara or Jane next time you go to the Playbus or give me ring and I’ll post you a copy.

Fire Drills

Sara and Jane will be carrying out fire drills at all stops during the summer term.

Summer Playscheme

This year the Summer Playscheme will run from Monday 26th July till Friday 20th August. There will play sessions for you to stay with your younger children and full day Playscheme sessions where children aged 3 to 6 can be left. Booking forms will be on the bus from May 1st and as usual rates are cheaper for early bookings before June 30th

Timetable

There are a few minor changes to the timetable for next term, Thwaite will start at 9.30 and Pakenham will be having a stop in their village at the Playing field. Please see the timetable on the back page for full details.

Route Review

We will be having a route review meeting early next term so if you have any comments or suggestions please let me know or place a note in the comments box on the Playbus.

Health & Safety

Just a reminder about leaving handbags in the kitchen and coats etc. on the coat hooks at the back of the bus rather than cluttering up the downstairs passenger seats so that they be used.

Fundraising

As you know the Playbus relies on user fundraising and any ideas you have are welcomed. If you feel like organising something but would like a bit of help please get in touch with me. Remember that every time you shop on Amazon.com, the book catalogues on the bus or in the Co-op Pyramids receives commission , so carry those divi number cards with you!

Hello Mrs Clarke!

I’m sure you’ll all want to join me in wishing Sara good luck and every happiness in her marriage to David at Easter and will be pleased to welcome her back next term as Sara Clarke.

Persil Stars

If you use Persil products please bring Persil stars to the Playbus to collect for art and craft materials.

Contact numbers

The Playbus mobile number is switched on at all times during session. Occasionally there is no reception but you will be able to leave a message as we now have a new reliable phone if you ever need to get in touch with Sara and Jane.

The Co-ordinator number is now 01379 650746 again and messages can be left if there is no answer, or you can send an e-mail to sue@pyramidsplaybus.org.uk

Dates for your Diary:

Tuesday 20th April;

Playbus back on the road

31st May — 4th June;

Half term holiday

Thursday 22nd July;

Last day of term

Weds 30th June;

Deadline for early booking discount for Playscheme

Mon 26th Jul—Fri 20th Aug;

Summer Playscheme

Newsletter MARCH 2004 - Registered Charity No. 283401 - www.pyramidsplaybus.org.uk