Bristol Parent

More than 100 young people outside mainstream education across the West of England are set to benefit from new, tailored work experience opportunities.
West of England Combined Authority

£102,600 of funding will expand a successful pilot across eight Alternative Provision settings in Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and the wider region, helping young people build confidence, skills and pathways into employment.

Find out more 👉

A free handbook has been launched to help families navigate the SEND system and feel less alone.

Created by Bristol-based Sylva with clinicians, SENCOs, psychologists and parents, The SEND Parent Handbook includes practical advice for school meetings, EHCP guidance, explanations of SEND terminology and details of independent support.

It is completely free to download, with no sign-up cost or obligation.

A huge congratulations to pupils, staff and families at Futura Learning Partnership, who completed an incredible 37,106 acts of kindness in a single day.

From foodbank donations and care home visits to encouraging classmates, sharing fans and even fixing a pink elephant, every contribution helped the partnership almost double the previous record.

🏉 Touch rugby, live music, games and a foam party are all coming to Bristol for a family fun day supporting Children’s Hospice South West.

The Wickwar Wessex Pub Company Family Fun Day takes place at St Brendan’s RFC from 10am–3pm on Sunday 23 August.

Children go free, while adult entry is £5, with organisers hoping to raise £4,000 to help CHSW care for children with life-limiting conditions and support their families.

Find out what’s planned 👇

Bristol Bears Rugby players swapped rugby boots for wheelbarrows and waders during a day of volunteering at Bristol Zoo Project. 🐻🦍

The 50-strong squad contributed more than 225 hours of work, clearing 1,500kg of blanket w**d from the gorilla island moat, helping improve the lemur walkthrough and welcoming almost 2,000 visitors.

🌟 Young people from across North Somerset have been celebrated for their courage, talent, resilience and community spirit at the North Somerset Youth Awards.

Hosted by Reset WSM at the Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare, the ceremony recognised children and teenagers who have overcome challenges, supported others and made a difference in their communities.

Gympanzees is celebrating its tenth annual Pop Up as construction of its permanent inclusive play and exercise centre reaches a major milestone.

Running from 5th–23rd August, the Pop Up gives disabled children and young people opportunities to play, exercise and enjoy activities alongside their families.

The Bristol charity has already raised more than £8 million and is now making a final fundraising push to complete its permanent home.

Read more and find out how to visit in the comment below…

🐝 Want to help wildlife in your garden this summer?

Woodlands.co.uk has shared five easy ideas families can try, from planting a ‘bee buffet’ and building a bug hotel to leaving one corner of the garden a little wild.

Even a balcony, patio or a few pots can provide food, water and shelter for bees, butterflies, birds, hedgehogs and other garden visitors.

🎬 Looking for an affordable school holiday activity?

Vue Bristol Cribbs Causeway and Longwell Green have a packed programme of family films this summer, including Toy Story 5, Minions & Monsters, Moana and PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie.

Children can also collect stamps in a Vue Adventure Passport, while Mighty Mornings screenings start from just £2.49 when booked online.

Find out what’s showing 👇

🎵 A boost for creative education in Bristol

Access Creative College Bristol has received Ofsted recognition for its education quality, inclusive culture and commitment to preparing young people for careers in music, media, games and other creative industries.

Students learn from professionals who are still working in their fields, while gaining practical experience through employer projects, performances and industry opportunities.

Applications are still open for courses starting in September 2026.