Playgroups and classes
Harrogate and the surrounding areas are a fantastic place for bringing up children and there is plenty going on children.
Below is a list of all the local playgroups and drop in clinics throughout the week and also details of all the children’s activities classes available across our area. Please contact the organisers directly if you would like to find out further information or to confirm class times or costs.
If you know of any other classes or groups which are not already listed, then please contact us here. Basic listings are free. ’Featured’ listings are £10 per month. For our full advertising rates then please click here.
After dancing online throughout lockdown, we are so excited to be back in our physical classes and dancing with our little stars again in person. Our preschool dance and ballet syllabus offers four stages of ballet dance classes, for young children aged 6 months to 6 years, plus a tap dancing class for children over 3 years.
Tots (6-18mth), Tinies (18mth-3yr), Movers (3-4yr), Groovers (4-6yr)
Mondays – Killinghall
9.45am Tinies
10.30am Movers
11.15am Tots
Tuesdays – Knaresborough
11.00am Movers
11.45am Tinies
12.30pm Tots
Wednesdays – Harrogate
9.45am Movers
10.30am Tinies
11.15am Tots
Fridays – Killinghall
9.45am Tinies
10.30am Movers
Saturdays – Beckwithshaw & Knaresborough
9.30am Tinies
10.15am Movers
11.15am Groovers
You can start classes with babyballet at any time and we offer a three-week introductory trial for £15.00 to trial our magical classes before committing to a term.
Please rest assured all of our classes have Covid secure measures in place and we are practising social ‘dis-DANCING’ at all of our venues.
Visit (https://babyballet.co.uk/babyballet-school/harrogate-knaresborough-ripon/) for more details and to book a trial. You can also email Miss Kim at harrogateknaresboroughripon@babyballet.co.uk or call/text 07873 443595
Classes are held at Nuffield Harrogate on Tuesdays & weekends (Pre-booking essential)
Home groups also available (Min number of bookings=6, Max 10)
Classes are held by me a Practising Midwife & a Qualified Nurse, whereby I specialised in A&E.
It is essential, as a parent or guardian of children, you are able to care for your baby in an emergency. By attending the course, you will gain confidence & awareness of how to treat your baby quickly in the event of an emergency. You will learn skills to care for your baby who suddenly becomes unwell or injured.
Limited time only – 10% discount for couple (mum & dad) bookings available!
Course booking:
Advanced booking essential.
Paediatric First Aid Made Easy Paperback included per person/couple RRP £5.99.
Practice CPR techniques on manikins
Limited class numbers
First Aid course content:
Basic Life Support – baby & child
Choking baby & child
Recovery position for baby & child
Head Injuries
Bumps, sprains, broken bones
Burns
Febrile Convulsion (fitting)
Signs of Meningitis
Swallowing harmful substances
First Aid ie. bandaging, stopping bleeding etc
Drowning
Annie Robinson, Blooming Babies
T: 07580004021
E: yorkshirebloomingbabies@gmail.com
W: www.bloomingbabiesyorkshire.co.uk
Chatsworth Dance believe our combination of expertise and enthusiasm provides top quality tuition and facilities.
We hold over 70 classes a week in 2 dedicated studios as well as additional classes at Harrogate Gymnastics at Hornbeam park with 8 qualified teachers teaching over 500 students (Girls, boys & ladies)
Classes start from 18 months upwards (no upper limit!) there is something for everyone including Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Musical Theatre
Born to Dance (baby ballet age 18 months to 3 years) This class is for babies/toddlers and a parent/guardian. Designed to introduce boys and girls to movement, rhythm and co-ordination through music (accompanied by an adult).
Pre-School Dance (ages 3 and 4) A class devised especially for boys and girls aged 3 years to school age. The emphasis is on freedom of movement, development of co-ordination and building confidence.
Ballet (IDTA syllabus) Still as popular as ever – indeed we currently have over 140 students coming to ballet classes every week! Ballet has a technique which is the foundation of all dance. We currently run 16 classes per week covering 10 different grades/standards
Tap (IDTA syllabus) Popular with teachers as well as students, tap spans many diverse musical styles and is enjoying an increasing popularity amongst our students. Beginners through to Seniors.
Modern Jazz (IDTA syllabus) Modern Jazz is designed to be a combination of structure and fun – principally geared to demonstrate emotion through interpretation of any musical genre. Beginners through to Seniors.
Freestyle & Boys Dance (IDTA syllabus) Our freestyle classes are very popular and very energetic. Covering age ranges from 6+ to 17+.
Musical Theatre & Theatrecraft For those who aspire to emulate the stars of “Mamma Mia” or even the “X” Factor, our Musical Theatre classes give the opportunity for students to exercise their vocal talents as well as their dancing skills.
Zumba Fitness® & Zumba Gold® is the only Latin-inspired dance-fitness program that blends red-hot international music, created by Grammy Award-winning producers, and contagious steps to form a “fitness-party” that is downright addictive. Zumba Gold® is the low impact version.
Adult Tap & Ballet We run a number of classes both adults returning to dance and beginners
Discofit A unique exercise and fitness programme for all levels based on ever-popular disco classics!
For the current timetable visit chatsworthdance.co.uk/timetable
Tel 01423 522322 or visit chatsworthdance.co.uk
CJMAA are a full-time Martial Arts Academy based in Knaresborough. With classes running 6 days a week for both children & adults, Chris and his team of instructors have been teaching in the area, full-time, for nearly 15 years. In 2013, CJMAA were themselves winner of a Mumbler award in recognition of their popular children’s classes.
At CJMAA their goal is to make Martial Arts accessible to all with class types ranging from pre-school parent & child classes to adult kickboxing and ladies only sessions. Home to multiple World, European and National champions, CJMAA is also a great place for students who wish to take their training to the next level.
Their center based on Park Avenue, just of Boroughbridge Road, is custom fitted with all the required safety equipment and holds a 5 star CMAA Kite Mark rating.
Please feel free to stop by our Facebook group for more of an idea on what we do
Drama class places available at Harrogate Theatre now!
Harrogate Theatre run weekly drama classes each school term and champion creativity, build confidence and are just loads of fun! Ranging from 3 to 18 years we have something for everyone, beginners and seasoned performers alike. Sign up now for your place starting this September and become a member of the Harrogate Youth Theatre.
Each age group develops age appropriate performance skills learnt through play ranging from learning about key practitioners to puppetry, script analysis and how to look after your voice. Ever wanted a go performing on one of our stages? From 5 years upwards we do just that, starting with simple projects pulling out themes from familiar stories you may read at home, to devising their own plays and staging published scripts with the whole shebang, lights, costumes and sets designed specifically for that show.
Each term is 10 weeks long and starts Monday 23 September 2019. Places are £70 per term, with the subsidised rate £40 per term for families eligible for free school meals or in receipt of benefits.* Discounts available for signing up to all three terms for this year.
*Subject to proof of income.
For more information or to book one of our free taster sessions please visit our website.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic Harrogate Council owned Swimming Pools are closed until further notice – please visit www.harrogate.gov.uk/covid19 for more information and updates
Jump into swimming lessons with our Learn to Swim programme. Children can learn to swim at the Hydro, Starbeck Baths and Knaresborough pool. Lessons are taught by our friendly and fully-qualified instructors and we follow the Swim England learn-to-swim framework. They run seven days a week, all year round (including school holidays, but not over Christmas and New Year).
We help your child improve their skills in the water and use different colour bands (red to gold) to represent increasing ability levels. These combine stroke technique, water safety and stamina.
We also run one of the most successful disability swimming programmes in the UK. Swimming lessons for children with special educational needs, disabilities or who find mainstream provision too challenging run at the Hydro every Sunday. They can progress through our star scheme into our hot shot swim squad, and in partnership with Harrogate District Swimming Club are able to take part in a range of competitive opportunities.
For more information please visit www.harrogate.gov.uk/swimminglessons or email swimminglessons@harrogate.gov.uk
Alternatively speak to our staff at your preferred pool
• The Hydro, Jenny Field Drive, Harrogate, HG1 2RP | 01423 556768 | hydro@harrogate.gov.uk
• Knaresborough Pool, King James Road, Knaresborough, HG5 8EB | 01423 860011 | knaresboroughpool@harrogate.gov.uk
• Starbeck Baths, Spa Lane, Harrogate, HG2 7JF | 01423 883155 | starbeck_pool@harrogate.gov.uk
Your little one will gain water confidence, have fun and play in our Rain Drops and Rain Tots lessons at the Hydro, Starbeck Baths and Knaresborough Pool.
Open to children aged from six months to three years old, the lessons include structured play, songs and an introduction to basic swimming.
You join your child in the water to help provide support.
For more details about our Learn to Swim lessons visit www.harrogate.gov.uk/swimminglessons
For lesson times and class availability please contact our swimming pools directly:
· The Hydro, Jenny Field Drive, Harrogate, HG1 2RP Tel: 01423 556768 Email: hydro@harrogate.gov.uk
· Knaresborough Pool, King James Road, Knaresborough, HG5 8EB Tel: 01423 860011 Email: knaresboroughpool@harrogate.gov.uk
· Starbeck Baths, Spa Lane, Harrogate, HG2 7JF Tel: 01423 883155 Email: starbeck_pool@harrogate.gov.uk
Rugbytots is the world’s favourite rugby play programme. Our dynamic weekly sessions enable boys and girls aged 2-7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun and positive environment.
Classes
Please contact: jon.steel@rugbytots.co.uk or tel 0345 313 0283 to book a FREE taster or for more information
Due to the coronavirus pandemic The Mercer Art Gallery is closed until further notice – please visit www.harrogate.gov.uk/covid19 for more information and updates
Saturday Art Club at Mercer Art Gallery is for young people aged 10 years and over who enjoy painting, drawing and making things.
Each six week course involves working with different artists, learning creative skills and experimenting with new materials. You’ll be inspired by works of art in the gallery and develop confidence in your own work.
Each six week course costs £70 inclusive of all materials and refreshments.
For further information please contact tel: 01423 556188 or email museums@harrogate.gov.uk
Mercer Art Gallery, Swan Road, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 2SA
CLASSES, PARTIES AND CAMPS
For every stage of your child’s development – from 4 months to 12 years – The Little Gym offers a diverse line up of classes, camps and parties filled with movement, music, learning and laughter. Your little ones will make friends, reach developmental milestones and build self confidence while having Serious Fun.
Tel: 01423 701560 or email: harrogate@thelittlegym.eu
1 Cardale Park, Harrogate HG3 1RY
Class Schedule – 2019 – 2020 2nd September 2019 – 19th July 2020
Updated October 2020:
Unfortunately, all their Service has been reviewed and now run on a referral basis only.
For more information please visit North Yorkshire County Council Website.
Family Classes- Martial Arts Class for ages plus, come and train with your kids, share the experience
A weekly class for 4-7 year olds teaching cricket skills to develop hand eye co-ordination and movement skills. Classes held across the Harrogate district.
For more info and to book visit our website
10am – 11.30am Dad and Child Play & Learn Group
3rd Saturday of month (21st Nov; 19th Dec)
All male carers – come along with your children from birth – 5 years for fun activities
Just drop-in
10am-11.30 Every 2nd Saturday in the month from September 2016
A new group for Dads/Grandads/male carers and their pre-school children is starting on Saturday 10 September from 10am to 11.30am and then the 2nd Saturday of every month. Toys and craft for the children. Coffee and bacon butties. Meet other Dads. Give Mum some time off!
Gracious Street Methodist Church, Knaresborough
didi Rugby has been devised to get young children aged 18 months to 6 years active and to teach them new skills while having fun in a safe environment.
Getting children active at a young age aids their development, improves their co-ordination, speed and balance and gives them more confidence.
10.30am – 12.00pm. The Harrogate Epilepsy Action group meets every 3rd Saturday at St Peter’s Church. “We’re hoping that families with young children suffering from Epilepsy are made aware of this group and to know other children and parents are in the same position and open to chatting about their experiences. We have found it a huge support and would like others to benefit from the group”
Our structured pre-school sessions are fun and energetic sessions designed to help little ones find their confidence in a class setting whilst exploring the equipment.
For those who want to explore and play on their own terms, we have our drop in sessions which run several times during the week – these sessions are also great as there is no booking required just turn up on the day!
The drop in sessions are £6 per child, and more information can be found on our website: 01423 874793
ODEON Kids screenings have been chosen especially for children and are every Saturday and Sunday mornings at pocket money prices.
Saturday: 5:30 – 7:00pm (aimed at younger, less experienced skaters)
7:30 – 9:00pm (all ages welcome but generally faster more experience skaters)
Entry per session is £5 and £1 for skate hire.
07821 148 696
Ashville College Sports Centre, Yew Tree Ln, Harrogate, HG2 9JP
Magic Hours are available every weekend. If your little one is itching to get onto 2 wheels be it balancing and or pedaling, now’s your chance! If they are already riding and need to brush up on their skills/got a new bike, then an hours 1:1 tuition is perfect too
More info on website.
10.00 – 1.00pm KISS Kids Club – Saturdays at Fairfax Community Centre.
Kids Inclusive Social Saturdays.
Open to Children in Year 1 up to 18th Birthday. The club is open to all abilities and has specialist play workers to support disabled children and those with special educational needs.
£10.00 per session
Contact Danni on (01423) 556719 or 07525 988145
Saturday Art Club at the Mercer Art Gallery
These artist-led art workshops are designed for young people aged 10 – 12 who would like to experiment and enjoy a range of new art skills. Each week we tackle a different creative challenge, often working with art from our collections. £70 for a 6 week course, 10.30 – 12.00, incl. refreshments and materials. Limited places, advance booking required.
Mercer Art Gallery, Swan Rd, Harrogate HG1 2SA
Telephone: 01423 556188
Socatots Harrogate, run by Dan Spencer
Saturday 9am, St Andrews church hall Starbeck
Talking Tots classes combine fun interactive games, songs, activities and stories to build on those vital early skills needed to communicate effectively. The sessions promote speaking, listening, attention, sharing, cooperation, confidence, self-esteem and phonological awareness
call Ruth on 07984327465
We help to inspire children to explore and develop through arts and crafts. We have a programme of award winning classes, that are underpinned by the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum. From painting to gloop to clay and more, your child will be engaged in our weekly sessions. Sessions are from £4.95 per class. Contact Sharon: 07851320987
Brand new to Harrogate – Baby Disco for newborns to pre-walkers!
First Saturday of the month at:
Creative Dance Studio
Rear 11 Dragon Terrace
Harrogate
HG1 5DN
Booking is essential through Facebook or phone (call Lauren on 07972 124004) and only £6 per child.
There will be disco lights, glow sticks, pom poms, dancing and so much fun!
Baby swimming with Water Babies is an exciting, enriching experience for both you and your little one. suitable for little ones from birth up to school age. As the UK’s leading swim school, not only do we teach vital lifesaving skills but we always incorporate lots of bonding, fun and socialising, so you can be sure that a Water Baby is a happy one! Our number one priority is to make sure you feel both happy and safe in the water.
Contact 01904 607110
Trinity Methodist Church, Harrogate
First Saturday of month from 10am-11.30am
It’s all about creating space where dads and their kids can have fun together. It’s founded on the Christian principle of wanting to demonstrate God’s love to communities. We have toys, games, activities – bacon butties and coffee – relax and chat.
These are held on the first Saturday of the month at Trinity Methodist Church, Trinity Road, Harrogate HG2 9AU from 10 am until 11.30. All welcome!
