Bathampton's Youth Worker

ups and downs

2011-03-03T10:58:00.002Z

Another 3 weeks of running and a blow by blow account of it all...

Saturday 12th Feb
I needed that, I so needed that. 12 miles this morning down by the canal 1hr 45 mins. pain is only temporary!

Friday 18th Feb
very happy today, had a good 18 mile run with an old coach JME Reynolds, just about 3 hrs as well, thankfully he didn't have to use a spatula! (reference to the film 'run fatboy run')

Tuesday 22nd Feb
yesterdays run was a (fast?) 2 miles around the village, today I am planning to run 6 miles at some point. Been trying to do early mornings, but my legs and ankles are telling me not to!

Wednesday 23rd Feb
I start with some sad news... Tuesday I was going for a 6 mile run. Unfortunatly I just ran out of time. But the good news is today, after clearing up from youth club and watching the simpsons I went for that run and not only that run but also another run as well, 2 for the price of one. 12 miles (Avoncliff and back)

Thursday 24th Feb
Another 12 mile run completed... just out of interest does anyone know the exact distance or how to find out the exact distance from Bathampton to Avoncliff?

Saturday 26th Feb
I think I may just have run the best run in my life...let me explain. It all started Friday evening, when yet again I ran out of time to do a run, and with Saturday fully booked the only time to run was early. Went to bed at 10:30pm, alarm went off at 5:45am, didn't want to get up, feet and legs hurt, dark and raining outside. managed to get going by 6am. I was cold, hungry, thirsty, tired, slow, wet, negitive, miserable and after about 10 mins needing the loo. I wanted to stop, every step I wanted to be the last, but plod on I did and after 2hrs 10 mins of non stop running I finally made it home, i'm still in shock.(it did remind me of the christian race!)

Wednesday 2nd March
6 miles, one more toe nail down, eight left!

Best laid plans...

2011-02-10T14:11:00.002Z

...of mice and men! well, I was hoping to give you a week by week, how is my training going blog, but as you see that never happened. The very next day ( I think) I engage on a long run, only to have to stop after 14 miles and walk home. I managed to pull a tendon in my foot and the pain was quite something. The prescription was rest and I did for a good week plus and decided to buy a new pair of trainers... and continue running... well almost. In theory that is what I have been doing, but in practice, not through injury but I have had to be stopping and walking home quite a bit. After so long (last time at 22 miles) I just lost the will and started to walk. But do I give up and forget this race on the 7th May (yes) NO of course not. To succeed is to know failure and fight through it.

Looking forward to seeing you at the next event - Jon

Facebook groups

2011-01-17T12:21:00.003Z

I have become fascinated with Facebook, and it's possibilities, especially all the different groups you can join. There are a number of groups I have joined of which you can go as silly as Wez Rocks!! (The Wez Greenhill Appreciation group) lets jump on his bus! To the more serious,remember Rhydian Avent.

We have our very own St. Nic's BAFTA for any young person to join up and find out the latest info and post photo's of youth club activities.

As you may know I am training for a 52 mile run in May, so decided to set up a group called, Jonny Kear is running 52 miles on 7th May, for St. Nic's BAFTA. I have decided to keep a journal of my progress each day, and instead of updating this blog daily I though I'd keep you up to speed once a week, so far this is what has happened...

Monday 10th Jan
Less than 17 weeks to go, today Monday 10th Jan is a rest day, although all thoughts are on tomorrow, a massive 24 miler is to be tried. I haven't run this far since 2001 and the Isle if wight marathon!

Wednesday 12th Jan
Very pleased today, I managed to run the 24 miles yesterday, the first 18 miles I was happy with a time of 3.10 mins, the last six were a slog, and I finished in 4hrs and 25 mins. woke up today a little bit weary but a brisk walk to work so loosed me up. Although being careful not to spend too much time at the computer today and then not being able to move!!

Had a little trot lunch time, 4 miles in around 45mins, legs feeling good

Friday 14th Jan
Yesterday (Thursday) was a rest day, funny walking and aches and pains. But today was a running day, which I nearly made a rest day because I could be bothered to go out, but knowing i had to write a progress report for you lot, spurred me on. 6 miles completed in under the hour, including a beast of Bathwick, a beautiful mile long drag (uphill) did that part in 13 mins, will I ever conquer it in 10?

Sunday 16th Jan
Yesterdays training consisted of a gentle jog, weights, push ups, sit ups and a lot of stretching. Today is a rest day.

Monday 17th Jan
Today is a rest day, wearing a foot strap and have a bandaged calf, feeling a slight tweak this morning, so playing it safe today, looking forward to tomorrow and the challenging Forest of Dean

Looking forward to seeing you at the next event - Jon

come and CY

2011-01-07T12:55:00.001Z

I'm running 13 sessions on Christianity at church, and would like to invite you along. The main aim of the sessions are to question the beliefs of Christianity and not to 'make you' a Christian.

They are starting this coming Monday 10th Jan and are every Monday, except half term, until 4th April. It starts at 5:30pm and will be finished by 7:30pm at the very latest. We are meeting in the Upper Room at church due to a pilates class happening in the Miller room. It is free to come along and there will a some nibbles and drinks available.

Have a great weekend - Jon

A Christmas Challenge

2010-12-11T13:21:00.002Z

I for one am always up to be challenged, that's why I am going to be running 52 miles in May, up and down the Malvern hills. Will I make it? Can I do it in under 10 hours? Will I be able to walk after?

Do you enjoy a challenge? Are you keen to try something you might not normally do? Do you want to know what I am about to ask you?

Well wait no more the Christmas Challenge is...

To borrow a book from our youth library at church (located in the Upper Room) and read it over the Christmas period. It's that simple. If you are wanting to make it more of a challenge you can write a review to be added to the website as well.

Have a thought provoking rest of advent and I pray you will be bless (not just with presents) this Christmas

Looking forward to seeing you at 'the library' - Jon

Excited or Exhausted?

2010-11-25T09:26:00.002Z

The big news of today is...It's one month until Christmas!!!

Reaction One.

Oh no we've got another month of this hype, we've had a month or two already, it's getting in the way of my life.

Reaction Two

oh yeah, oh yeah, Christmas is nearly here, I'm so excited I'm going to pop, I just can't wait, I need to do some more shopping!

Christmas seems to bring out two extreme reaction. For me, I sit on the fence. It is without doubt an extraordinary time of year, a chance to get off the treadmill and spend time doing things that for the rest of the year keeps on getting pushed back on the list of priorities. But there is also a false hope, to believe that life is great and wonderful, just isn't reality, pushing all those problems weather personal or otherwise to the side hoping that with a new year they will somehow disappear.

So how do I deal with Christmas? I have to look at Jesus, a king with an eternal reign, born on the maternity wing of a farm!

Not glamorous but with a purpose, and that is how he lived his life. Jesus while on earth was rooted in reality but with his sight on a world to come.

As you prepare for Christmas, may you be excited about all that Jesus offers.

Looking forward to seeing you at the next event - Jon

Obituary of Penny Sweet

2010-11-08T13:19:00.002Z

It is with great regret and sadness that I have to inform you of a very sad and solemn passing. Penny for many years have entertained, pacified and brought joy to many children throughout the United Kingdom. Cause of death is unknown, but many speculate that the financial down turn and increased food costs are to blame!

Well this, for me is quite a moment in history, not big enough to make local, national or international news, but note worthy I think. Whilst shopping in our local cash and carry, looking for the penny sweet section, it became obvious to me that my search was in vain. As I paid for my purchases I commented to the cashier that I was in mourning, you can't get penny sweets anymore! I was met with a look and a patronising 'oh'. He was too polite to say move with the times old man!

All the old sweets I have brought for myself and in recent years for many youth club tuck-shops. White mice, banana's, lips, cola bottles, fizzy cola bottles and the like are all no longer 1p, some have gone up by 400%.

But there is good news, we decided that any profits we make with the tuck-shop should go to charity. I am very pleased to say we are about to send a cheque to Hope for Justice for £60 (http://www.hopeforjustice.org.uk/)

The penny sweet maybe no more, but our penny's are making a difference.

Looking forward to seeing you at the next event - Jon

A little tweak here and a little tweak there...

2010-10-20T16:16:00.003+01:00

Here a tweak, there a tweak, every where a tweak tweak, old Bathampton had a youth club E-I-E-I-O.

For the past six weeks, we have been trying something new at youth club. Our old Thursday club, Mayhem once played second fiddle to Wednesday's K-OS. But now they stand shoulder to shoulder.

We decided to go from just a youth club that hangs out to a more organised, structured one. It has included cooking, table tennis competitions and a Chalk hunt. We finish this term with a bit more cooking and have a Camp fire, T-shirt painting and games in the woods as some of the activities on offer as we run up to Christmas!

Our slogan is 'your imagination is the only limitation.' We strive always to better what we do and tweak what's happening.

Don't forget we have quite a lot of activities planned over the half term holidays.

Looking forward to seeing you at the next event - Jon

It's all still going well....

2010-09-29T13:20:00.002+01:00

Can you jink yourself? I'm not too sure and I hope I haven't spoken too soon, but... the clubs and activities continue to run with great enthusiasm and numbers. It has been great to see the 'regulars' back and also to meet some new young people, who have started coming to our varied activities.

Our two youth clubs are buzzing with life, Wednesday's new toy is a wii, and Thursdays varied organised activities have been really fun. This week was going to be a bowling trip out, but unfortunately we weren't quite able to fill a bus, so we are down at base, bowling. I have just been given an indoor bowling set (not the ten pin type) so I think new skills and a good time is planned. As an aside we are going to have a twister competition as well!

Pathfinders got off to a great start, we are looking at the whole of the Old Testament of the Bible, looking through it book by book, starting with the minor prophets. We are covering a book a week. We have also got off to a flying start with YF, about 7 or so school year 9 and up are studying Jesus, all those things you didn't know about him are being discussed. We still have spaces if anyone would like to join us.

Looking forward to seeing you at the next event - Jon

All Started Well

2010-09-16T09:04:00.003+01:00

We are well over a week back into the autumn term, and so far so good. Our Wednesday night youth club continues with great gusto and the new Wii has been a big hit. The Thursday Specials (we have only had one) has broken all records with 14 young people all trying to beat the legend that is Ray Bennett on the table tennis table. None succeeded, not bad for an 87 year old! YF has started again and like last term includes quite a lot of laughing, mainly at me, but never the less, we do have a great time studying the Bible. The theme is Jesus Christ and we are taking a leisurely look at different aspects that makes Jesus unique (and also God). His incarnation, His atoning death and triumphant resurrection. Pathfinders is also due to start this Sunday as well and during these sessions we are going to be concentrating on the Old testament especially the minor prophets and see who they were and what they had to say. Maybe even to see if they have anything useful for us today, so 3000 years later!

Looking forward to seeing you at the next event - Jon

Vote to moving the Summer Holidays

2010-09-01T10:20:00.002+01:00

Term has pretty much started and the summer is now over, well that is apart from the sun now deciding to shine again. I vote to move the summer holidays to when the sun shines, either June and July or September. I'll ask Simon Cowell, and get a TV show commissioned! Oh no the X Factor has started again, is this really the best television companies can do for prime time? Good job I don't have a telly!

Indeed the autumn term has started and I have just about finished the programme of events from now until August, yes that's right, I thought I'd get my head down and plough through it all, oh course there are going to be tweaks and additions, but the format is there. From now until Christmas is definitely set in stone, all this can be viewed on our website going to Jon's calendar to view month by month the youth activities, it's even colour coordinated.

I shall leave you to peruse the calendar, (click on the biscuit) see you at the next event - Jon

Welcome to the grrreatest show on earth

2010-07-14T14:23:00.002+01:00

Is this an exaggeration? Is this going to change life as we know it? or just a good old bit of Jon hype? This Saturday (17th July) sees Bathampton Celebrate 200 years of the canal being opened. now I don't claim to be an expert in anything (definition of an expert is a drip under pressure!), I can't even say I hear this on QI so it must be right. So the following can be taken with a pinch of salt.

200 years a lots have changed, I guess the village itself must have been only a few houses when digging started, men in hob nailed boots, sweating and working hard are now exchanged with people in flip flops chilaxing. I guess the main idea of the canal was to transport goods around the country a type of motorway, now we see stag and hen parties, exchanging roller coasters and pubs to a leisurely cruise for the weekend. Can you see the Michael McIntyre of the day making jokes of canal transport and being stuck behind a coal barged? So 200 years are being celebrated this year on Saturday on the school playing fields with a fete and music, it's going to be fun because it's a village celebration and that's why it's going to be one of the greatest shows on earth, leaving you breathless (but let's hope not in anaphylactic shock!) When Bathampton parties, it's a group of friend old and new enjoying life and each other. if medals were given out to communities, Bathampton would get GOLD!

See you at the next event - Jon

4 months since I've been on the Blog!

2010-07-05T12:31:00.002+01:00

Ouch, 4 months is quite sometime away. But I haven't been idle, just quite busy and the though of writing some wise words to entertain, inform and provoke, became an ever increasingly bigger mountain to climb. Had I been suffering from the ill fated writers block, staring endlessly at blank pieces of paper (or computer screens) waiting for inspiration to flow, but ending up thinking how much weigh could sellotape hold before it snapped. Thankfully I didn't try, well, that was only because I couldn't find any weights! There was only one thing to do, and that was just start tapping and see what happened, so here it is, my first blog for 4 months.

It's a strange phrase from strength to strength, but surprisingly that is what has been happening here. The youth work is going well, our main youth club night on Wednesdays see at least 20 young people and our Sunday night Bible Studies (YF) we now are using crowbars to get them to leave. We also have a great head of steam with the Sunday morning Pathfinders who are going to be leading the 10:30am service on 25th July, The week long holiday club for the primary aged children and a weekend of celebration of the canal (16th - 18th July) sees a very hectic, but greatly exciting couple of weeks ahead.

looking forward to see you at the next event - Jon

I Didn't Win a Gold Medal

2010-03-24T16:36:00.004Z

Jokes aside, my challenge to Amy Williams
of there being a new kid on the block did
not last long. When you start taking sport to
a more serious level, start trying to beat your
time, or improving the smallest of techniques it
has to be admired. I was very pleased to
achieve a time of 1hr 48 mins and 28 sec.
Now that one challenge is complete I am very
keen to do another. The next goal that I am
eagerly looking at is a full marathon, 26.2 miles
an achievement I made in 2001. I was able to
run then in a time of 4hr 19 mins and 58 sec.
I am looking at being able to run the
Snowdonia marathon in 3 ½ hours, quite a
courageous or is it a stupid goal to set, but with-
out setting yourself goals is like always eating
ordinary ready salted crisps, fine for a while but
like the long saphenous vein very draining!
Just in case you were wondering I didn't need to
do a Paula Radcliffe, as Smithy suggested on
the sport relief sketch. How he did that and
didn't feel like a gooseberry I don't know, I guess
it just goes to show what a brilliant actor and
writer he is. Okily smokily I guess that is it from
me, Easter is round the corner and then by jingo
I'm off on holiday.

See you at the next event - Jon

Amy wins Gold

2010-02-25T09:35:00.002Z

Wow, heart stopping stuff. It felt like Bathampton was holding their breath. The first two runs and Amy Williams was in gold position over night and got a course record. Was it on? Was it possible? Talent and skill she had, but what about nerves, could she hold it. I'm sure her stomach was in knots, I expect her duodenum was even twisted. A whole day to wait. We couldn't bear it, how did she? Day two and run three was about to start, my legs were jelly, but Amy was as cool as you like, bam, another course record. Then the long wait, last to go down, we're all praying that she doesn't tumble and her chance for gold missed. The sled goes down on the ice, she pushes and gracefully starts her slide. One corner two, and the rest, all eyes on the clock, it's looking good, it is, Amy Williams wins gold.

I feel the pressure on. No more than a week or so away and I am competing in a half marathon. Eight years Amy trained and practiced and honed her skills. Eight months I have tried to run along the footpath of the canal, sometimes succeeding, other times I've had to walk a mile or two back home, defeated unable to run any further. What makes it worst, I thought I could achieve my own personal gold, to complete 13.1 miles in under 1 1/2 hours. Why didn't we opt for a jumble sale instead, to raise money for the youth activities? But negative feelings I can't have. This is as much a mental feat as it is a physical. What if Bob Dylan listened to his critics or Al Pachino thought he weren't good enough? Would we have some of the finest songs to listen to or some of the greatest film to watch? Positivity and self belief is good, and that is going to help me achieve my gold.

look out Amy Williams, another athlete is on your tail!

See you at the next event - Jon

Of Happy Disposition?

2010-01-27T09:31:00.000Z

We are a month into the New Year and new decade. We all have expectations of what a new year brings, and especially a new decade. I remember the year 2000, all the possibilities of what a new century was going to bring, but the bright lights of the fireworks fade as quickly as they appear, and so our aspirations of a new year and new decade! The old Scandinavian proverb says ‘Don’t skin the bear before it’s been shot.’ There’s a difference between planning to do something and actually doing it. Don’t get too ahead of yourself. Wise words. As I am sure Alberto Contador would agree, he, the current Tour de France Champion is a Climbing specialist (on his bike) to tackle those hills you can’t sprint off it takes a plan and loads of determination to achieve your goal.

2010 sees me body building, but not in the convention sense. My plan is to build one muscle only, my heart. I have embarked on the challenge of Bath Half marathon in March and ‘the big one’ Snowdonia marathon in October. Each run so far I have been determined to run a bit further, for a bit longer to achieve the 13.1 miles for the half marathon distance. My last run I had a great run, I went to Avoncliff and decided to then instead of turning around and coming back, I’d run up the ‘cliff’, I am off my noggin, will I kick the bucket? Thankfully not, although I did manage a heart rate of 186 (which is quite high) thankfully my Pericardium (that’s the sac that contains the heart) did its job well and contained all vital parts! After (the day after) the feeling was great, achieving my goal was superb, all the muscle fatigue, pain and exhaustion forgotten. It was worth it!

In Pathfinders, this is our Sunday morning Bible study group; we are looking at one of the books in the Bible called 1 Peter, the first letter that one of Jesus’ disciples wrote to Christian. He encourages them to keep going, although as a Christian you will find it tough and face trails and will be persecuted and find it difficult to ‘be Holy’, but Peter sees the bigger picture and says ‘For God has reserved a priceless inheritance for his children.’

If you do see me running and you pass in the car, tooting will keep me going for a good few hundred yards!

Looking forward to seeing you at the next event.

Jon
p.s. I’m running for sponsorship, in aid of the youth activities at St. Nic’s BAFTA

Who's ready for 2010?

2009-12-07T15:12:00.002Z

I'm in a quandary. As we leave the zero's, naughties or what ever the decade is called, we enter what? The Ten's, doesn't seem right, when it's 2011, calling the decade the 10's is going to be so last year. It's like having grapefruit for pudding, it's not something you do.

I have been busy looking at 2010 and planning a hectic youth programme. Although I do say so myself, it is brilliant. We continue with the usual suspects of K-OS and Mayhem, The film nights, and after far too long an absence the artful dodger itself is back, Open Mic Nights have snuck back into the programme, and wanting to pinch your hearts again. Will it be the lost son returning or a filthy con artist? and who could resist a pizza and quiz night.

Christmas is well and truly here and I've already had 2 mince pies, and we're only seven days into December. This Christmas we have quite a full programme to see off any hint of boredom. We have our Pizza and Quiz Night Christmas Special on the 21st, where we welcome back THE quiz master Mr. Jake Tempo! Christingle making in the morning of 24th, with the service at 4pm. And for all those really keen we have a Christmas day all age Celebration service at 10:30am. I'm off to my parents after the service to celebrate with my family (and to get mother to clean and iron all my laundry!)

We pause briefly, then back to it with three events, a Football match, Film night (thinking about a back to back viewing of The Lord of the Rings, any thoughts?) and a Adventure golfing afternoon. We are then back into the full swing of events on Wednesday 6th January.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

see you at the next event

Jon

Time flies when your having fun

2009-11-04T16:23:00.002Z

November already, it seems ages ago since my last blog, maybe because it was, well over a month. Since the start of the autumn term, we have been flying. So much is going on in K-OS and the new Thursday night youth club, which is almost ready for name, the current favourite is Mayhem. This week 'Mayhem' opens it doors to everybody, so from now on we have a bonanza of weekly youth activities, two youth clubs you can attend!

We are celebrating firework night in our own special way, with film canister rockets, we will be doing this outside, so lets hope it doesn't rain, otherwise we will have to put up some gazebo's so our rockets don't get wet!?!

Our film nights are taking a slight detour, as we are going to hold a few on Saturday evenings, this was a request by a few of you, so let's see how they go. The next one due is on SATURDAY 7th November, I can't tell you the title due to licence regulations, but it is one staring Adam Sandler where is acts like a complete and utter clownfish.

see you at the next event - Jon

Back in the Flow

2009-09-25T11:28:00.004+01:00

We are back in the flow of the youth activities now, and it has been great to see you all, catch up on your summer activities and to hear you moan about being back in school!

Our clay modelling was a great success here are a few photo's of the results

We are currently in the process of putting together a website which can be fond at http://stnicsbafta.org.uk any comments or recommendations would be appreciated

Something else to check out from one of our own.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QIIyh0qUQQ

see you at the next event - Jon

The programme is finalised

2009-09-14T16:56:00.003+01:00

St. Nic's BAFTA is fully charged and ready to go, it all begins this Wednesday with the group that is only know as K-OS. We are starting as we mean to carry on, at full pace. Keeping up is going to be a challenge. Our new youth group on Thursdays is about to join us in this sensational year. (The first half of the Autumn on Thursdays is just for year 7, then after half term it is going to be opened for all secondary school aged young people.) Not only is there the two weekly clubs happening, but there are other events to entertain, excite and enjoy.

September (and a bit of October) heads up like this...

Wednesday 16th - K-OS - Outdoor games
Thursday 17th - Youth club - Outdoor games
Sunday 20th - Pathfinders - 10:30am
Sunday 2oth - YF - 7:15pm
Wednesday 23rd - K-OS - Clay modelling
Thursday 24th - Youth club - Clay modelling
Friday 25th - Film Night
Saturday 26th - Bike ride
Sunday 27th - Pathfinders
Sunday 27th - YF
Wednesday 30th - K-OS - Outdoor games
October
Thursday 1st - Youth Club - Outdoor games
Saturday 3rd - Tennis
Sunday 4th - Pathfinders
Sunday 4th YF
Wednesday 7th - K-OS - Karioke
Thursday 8th - Youth club - Karioke
Friday 9th - Film Night

More information can be sort from me either in person or 01225 480561, 07870 138925 or jonkear@hotmail.com

see you at the next event - Jon

New term

2009-09-01T21:28:00.002+01:00

Well, the holidays seem to be but a distant memory now, school about to begin and a mountain of course works looms, the nights are getting darker, the colder weather soon to be upon us and no doubt rain will become a daily event.

But no need to fear as all of St. Nic's BAFTA's activities are about to re-start. now good things come to those who wait, and due to Bathampton's youth worker being out of action for the next fortnight, the activities are going to comments week beginning Monday 14th September.

More info soon

Jon

Could this be summer?

2009-08-09T17:00:00.008+01:00

I do believe that the sun is shining! As the saying goes, 'Make hay whilst the sun shines' and that's what we did on the 8th August. Well not quite making hay, but we gave those park benches (and the bins) a much needed rub down and lick of paint. Many thanks to all those who helped.

Who said Jake is lazy?

Well I now have 2 weeks off, but we come back on Friday 21st with a film night, Saturday (22nd August) we are helping at Bathampton Manor at their fete and then the weekend after (27th - 31st August) is our great weekend away to Gorsley Festival.

see you at the next event. Jon

Zoo Poo

2009-07-31T17:38:00.007+01:00

When your in a tropical Paradise, the last thing you expect to happen is a bird to poo on your shoulder, well that is what happened to me. I'm haven't been on my holidays yet, but a superb trip to Bristol Zoo paved the way to this disaster!

The reason for the trip was to reward those who painted the park benches and tubs. Unfortunately Wednesday, the painting day was bad, and no painting could be done, so in good faith the Thursday reward trip to the zoo continued, in glorious sunshine, and the park benches, well they remain in need of some TLC!

I haven't yet figured out why in the photo I am actually smiling about this, and allowing the offender to continue to use me as a perch.

See you at the next event. Jon

The lesser spotted Rowan!

Canoe have more fun than this?

2009-07-10T14:51:00.003+01:00

A few photo's of K-OS youth club canoeing trip.

See you at the next event - Jon

Next years' designer wear!

2009-07-02T10:41:00.006+01:00

At Bathampton, we feel we are always one step ahead of the rest of the world, and I think our binliner designer evening proves the point. All we had were binliners and scrap material and the results, even Stella McCartney would be envious of.

On a slightly different note, I am in ther process of setting up a Google Group for St. Nic's BAFTA, but it is invitation only, so if you want to see more pics etc, then get yourself invited. It is in the development stages so bear with us.

See you at the next event - Jon

How cool are these?

2009-06-24T22:43:00.007+01:00

Well I couldn't wait til the morning to put these up, the finished pieces photographed tonight. The hard labour of the youth club and with great thanks to Linda for the time spent with us and the time to grout, what a result! Not quite sure who's is who, but I'm sure you know which is yours. enjoy. Pictures before and after grouting.

Can't think of a good title so this will have to do!

2009-06-22T11:52:00.009+01:00

After being grilled by Bath finest interrogation team, Sylvia, one of our helpers was found not guilty of wearing too much pink!

Which one of these two new recruits would you like to be arrested by?

I think it just best not to comment on this photo!

A master piece in progress

(The end result will follow shortly with all of the other place mates we designed at K-OS the other evening, by the way this is mine)

I'm sure most people have their thinking firmly set into the summer and six weeks of doin' nufin'. Well as a youth worker I'm always trying to stay one step ahead. September and the beginning of the activities are firmly in my mind at the moment, K-OS, Pathfinders, YF, Film Nights, Quizzes, Trips, Open Mic Nights, Half Term Activities, dare I even say Christmas and Easter, let along another CY course and the beginning of our new Thursday evening youth club for the new year 7's. But we still have another 4 weeks of term to go, and a lot to cram in. The final few sessions of the CY course, a canal bank service, young peoples advice group film nights, a dinner and dance and a paint party! They're as follows...

24th June 6:30pm - 8:30pm K-OS Normal / Games on KES fields, Miller room to start

27th June 5pm - 7pm CY session Miller room

28th June 10:30am Pathfinders in the Upper room (No YF that evening)

1st July 6:30pm - 8:30pm K-OS Bin Liner Designer evening, Miller room

3rd July 7pm - 9:30pm Film Night, Miller room

4th July 5pm - 7pm CY Session Miller room

5th July 10:30am Family service at Church

5th July 4pm Canal bank service Jubilee gardens (by the George)

5th July 7:15pm - 8:45pm YF at the home of the Curate

8th July 6:30pm - 8:30pm K-OS Canoeing, set off from the church

10th July 7pm - 9pm New Group, YPAG, this is an opportunity to have an input with the planning of the youth work from September onward, activities to do and items purchased meeting in the Miller room

11th July 5pm - 7pm CY Miller room

12th July 10:30am Pathfinders in the Upper room

12th July 7:15pm - 8:45pm YF at the home of the Curate

15th July 6:30pm - 8:30pm K-OS normal plus games on the KES playing fields, Miller room

17th July 7pm - 9:30pm Film Night in the Miller room

19th July 10:30am - 11:30am New Event Re:GENR8. An hour starting and finishing in the Miller room for anyone aged 5 - 16 years old to interactively discover and worship God, it is designed for anyone, so no matter your church background or bible knowledge. We at St. Nic's want to regenerate Sunday worship for children and young people.

19th July 7:15pm - 8:45pm YF at the home of the Curate

22nd July 6:30pm - 8:30pm K-OS decorating of the Miller room plus normal activities

24th July 7pm - 9pm YPAG (see 10th July) in the Miller room

25th July 7pm - 11pm Summer dinner and dance, celebrate the end of term with a fun formal dinner and a disco in the Miller room

26th July 10:30am the last Pathfinders of the summer in the Upper room

26th July Time to be decided YF Meal

29th July All day starting at 10am Paint party, our chance to quite literally make a splash in Bathampton by painting the park benches and tubs, old clothes a must!

30th July All day, the painter reward, a free trip to the zoo for all those who helped to paint the benches and tubs.

Well, apart from the Gorsley Festival, see Jon to get loads more information, which there are a few places still to take, this takes us to September.

I do hope that you would come along to something, even if you have never been to anything before, you are more than welcome.

See you at the next event - Jon

We missed this!

2009-06-11T15:47:00.006+01:00

Gorsley Festival is soon to be upon us, the forms are now printed and my sign up sheet is ready to be filled with names.

I have managed to get hold of some of last years photo's to give you a sneak peek at what Gorsley promise to be a bigger and better festival this year, can this be topped?

Can you have two flagships in the fleet?

2009-06-01T17:00:00.009+01:00

K-OS continues to be the flagship of the youth work in Bathampton, but as of September it is going to have a rival. We are, in the next few weeks going to announce the start date for a second youth club in the village. No name, time or day as yet, but it is going to be big!

We have just had a great half term with three Half Term Madnesses (afternoon activities), a very interesting Open Mic Night and a Film Night. The highlight for me had to be the Swing Challenge that Lucy and Finn jointly won, as we run out of time, with the swing time standing at 45 minutes!

Eight more weeks and another year is all over, then the summer begins for real! You may still have school, But Nic's BAFTA has a mountain of Activities to see you through.

The CY sessions are as hot as the weather, great debate over what Christians believe.

K-OS have a full programme to make sure you don't get any mid week blues.

Kick off your shoes and relax after a hard week at school on Friday nights (almost fortnightly at the moment) with a film.

And the weekend swings with Pathfinders and YF on Sunday.

I'll leave you with a few photo's of recent activities including a night out I had in Bath! I had the pleasure to go out with Bath's Street Pastors to see what they do.

What does a youth worker do on their day off?

2009-05-20T12:15:00.004+01:00

An interesting question that gets asked every now and again, and well the answer is simply, I meet up with some of my friends, hang out and relax.

As ever the youth work continues with great success, and that is thanks to you who come along. We have had a great time with Richard, teaching us sign language and also last week Capoeira with Parana, and this is just the start of our summer programme. The CY sessions are also going well with great discussion and debate, the food is even getting rave reviews!

We are as ever trying to provide activities that you are interested in. I am trying to set up a group that can become a steering council, meeting fairly regularly to help in achieving continued outstanding activities that will encompass all young people of the village and beyond.

Anyway, I leave you with a few photo's of my friends and me!

See you at the next Event. Jon

Too Much Choice?

2009-05-08T10:48:00.009+01:00

I'm going to have to start with some sad news. My followers haven't increased anymore, after a serge of 2 over the past month, the mass induction has stopped, and I think I am going to have to abandon the rock god status!

Meanwhile back in reality what is happening on the youth work front? As the title suggests we have so much going on at the moment, there is a lot of info and hopefully something for everyone.

PCSO Mike 7447, and the local beat team are putting together some hockey training sessions for the young people of Bathampton with a hockey Olympian. if you are interested contact me to get their details.

Bathampton Cricket Club are looking for new young members to join them, if you are interested again contact me for further details.

I have volunteered our services to the local parish council to paint the tubs and benches in the park, and am looking for a good number of keen helpers to be those volunteers with me to make a work party.

I am wanting your help in running the youth activities at St. Nicholas church. I would like to set up a working group that could give advise to shape the future here.

K-OS continues on Wednesdays in term time. Pathfinders also continues every Sunday Morning at the church at 10:30am (except 1st Sunday of the month). Pathfinders is for anyone over 11 who is interested in God and is wanting to live as a Christian. We also have YF (Youth Fellowship) that meet on Sunday nights at the Curate's house, this is for anyone School year 9 and above who are wanting to do Bible study.

Events Happening Soon
Friday 15th May
Film Night , 7pm - 10pmish
In the Church’s Miller Room
Free (tuckshop available)

Half Term Events

Wednesday 27th, Thursday 28th and Friday 29th May
Half Term Madness
Games and activities on the playing field
(in the miller room if wet)
2pm - 4pm
Free

Wednesday 27th May
Open Mic Night
In the Church’s Miller Room
7pm - 9pm
Free to enter £1 to watch (tuckshop available)

Friday 29th May

Film Night , 7pm - 10pmish
In the Church’s Miller Room
Free (tuckshop available)

Events Happening Fairly Soon

Saturday 25th July

Summer Dinner and Dance

7pm - late

The Miller Room

Price yet to be decided

August Bank Holiday Camping Trip
27th - 31st August 2009
A Trip to Gorsley Festival
There will be Christian teaching at this event
We plan to camp off site with another group from Raglan,

Jon’s old place of work.
More information coming soon

I guess that is enough to be going on with at the moment, see you at the next event. Jon

(sorry about the spacing on events, couldn't post as I planned)

K-OS Activities

2009-04-27T12:34:00.010+01:00

Wow, I have 5 followers, I feel like a Rock god! Anyway I am off the point straight away.

K-OS last week celebrated St. Georges day with Cornish Pasties and Bread and Butter pudding, and we were treated not only with a visit by Mike and Greg our PCSO's with the camera van, but also we had the great privilege of sampling what I believe to be the worlds largest 'Cadbury's style' Easter egg, made by George, I say Cadbury's style, because the egg was full of the white and yellow filling, sadly no camera was present to take a snap, but I guess this stood a good 18cms tall, and tasted, dare I say, even better than the real thing!

Over the next coming weeks and months we have a great line up for K-OS, which is as follows.

29th April - Sign language
6th May - Normal
13th May - Capoeira*
20th May - Fire Station Visit (need to book yourself in)
3rd June - Outdoor games evening (if weather is good)
10th June - Police Station Visit (need to book yourself in)
17th June - Craft Activities
24th June - Normal
1st July - Binliner Designer
8th July - Canal Trip (need to book yourself in)
15th July - Normal
22nd July - Decorating Miller Room for...

25th July (Saturday night) Summer Dinner and Dance!

*Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art form that involves movement from martial arts, games and dance. It was created in Brazil by the slaves brought from Africa. See this link for an idea. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwG7JwXtUSI

Looking forward to seeing you at the next event. Jon

One Hot Cross Bun (ny)

2009-04-17T10:19:00.003+01:00

I wasn't convinced it was a good idea, but never the less, due to rising pressure the outfit was put on and the Easter egg hunt commenced. The weather was good enough for a quick game of Cricket before the hunt, and a game of rounders after. I seemed to be 'hare'ing after the ball quite a lot, which wasn't 'warren' ted, but for some reason people like the idea of shouting run rabbit run, although thankfully no farmer came with a gun. I'll leave all the bad humour at that and just show the pictures.

Highs and Highers

2009-04-02T10:21:00.007+01:00

The past 7 or so days have been quite extraordinary. Last Tuesday 24th March, I met Henry Olonga, quite a remarkable man. He played for Zimbabwe from '95 - '03 when he stated, with Andy Flowers, "In all the circumstances, we have decided that we will each wear a black armband for the duration of the World Cup. In doing so we are mourning the death of democracy in our beloved Zimbabwe. In doing so we are making a silent plea to those responsible to stop the abuse of human rights in Zimbabwe. In doing so, we pray that our small action may help to restore sanity and dignity to our nation." This bought an end to his career, which one high light saw him bowl 6/19 against England in 2000.

I was fortunate enough to meet him at our Church's Building Bridges week, where he spoke about cricket, Zimbabwe, and his life and faith. he also sang a few songs as well, man has he got a voice. If he wasn't such a great chap, he's the type you would be jealous of, but as the saying goes all power to his elbow!

Part of this Bridges week, we had Gavin Tyte come and do a beatbox workshop, which was not as well attended as I'd like, but those that didn't come missed an absolute treat. The Chronicle ran an article on the workshop and quoted our Curate, Rob Thomas, that Gavin was one of the best Beatboxers on the UK and World stage, and that wasn't too far from the truth. Anything you have seen on Youtube or on telly Gavin did. After a Q and A session, where he explained about one of his other passions, being a Christian and explained how he became a Christian which in turn after time saw him become a vicar, he finished his time with a battle between Scooby Doo and The Darleks.

This week has been a crash down to earth again, but we weren't down for long, as K-OS Youth club was greeted by Avon and Somerset Police finest two officers, complete with lights and sirens as they pulled up to the church, in a very quick response to some mindless vandalism committed moments earlier (I joke, although a light did get broken in the excitement of the police arriving!)

We are looking forward to Easter with five events

Wednesday 8th April Pizza and Quiz Night in the Miller Room 7pm £1

Saturday 11th April Unileavers Supper.

Sunday 12th April Easter Egg Hunt, 2pm in the Park, at church if raining, with a very special guest, the Easter Bunny will be making an appearance!
Friday 17th April Film Night 7pm in the Miller Room (due to licence laws we are unable to advertise the film or charge) tuckshop available.

in addition

Saturday 18th April - I am taking part in the Genesis Canal Challenge, canoeing from Bathampton to Avoncliff and back, 12 miles. You are welcome to join me either walking or cycling, see me (either in person, on the phone, text or email) to get yourself registered.

Added are a few photo's for your amusement.

Looking forward to see you at the next event. Jon

When will I be famous?

2009-03-23T12:04:00.003Z

How about now? Fame has finally come my way, all these years of waiting and there it is, my famous fifteen minutes, (to quote Andy Warhol). If you are wondering what on earth I am talking about, then you need to see this weeks' Bath Chronicle (March 19th Edition) and turn to page 19, and 'Feel the beat at church's free music workshop'

We are now but days away from the beatbox workshop, and I for one am very excited indeed. The workshop is this Saturday 28th March, 3:30pm in the Miller Room and is going to be about 2hrs long, this will include a short talk from Gavin and a couple of breaks. all who come will also be entitled to a free hot chocolate, I know we really have pushed the boat out this time.

With Easter fast approaching, we have a few activities to entertain you with, including, an Easter Egg hunt, Quiz night and Film night.

See you at the next event. Jon

Comments Welcome

2009-02-27T10:18:00.004Z

Is it me, or does Half Term seem like it was never there? For me the week was jam packed full of activities. Unfortunately it didn't start too well, with the Valentines day meal being cancelled with very few wishing to attend, which worked well for me as the Tom Bridge Experience was able to practice their set for a bit longer, (the drummer needed it!)

On into the week we had 3 afternoons of activities, sadly due to the weather we were unable to go outside, but great fun was had in the Miller Room. Surprisingly a parachute fits in the Miller Room. The Open Mic Night saw a record breaking number of entries, with the standard as high as ever, special mention has to go to our opening act, who stole the whole show with 4 songs, including a self penned soon to be classic song, that broke into Robbie Williams 'Let me entertain you.' The week ended with a film night watching Batman Begins.

K-OS, the Wednesday night youth club continues to grow, both in number and activities, last week we cooked over 20 pancakes and the next two weeks we are celebrating St. David's day and St. Patrick's day.

The Pathfinders group that meet on a Sunday Morning in church are currently looking at what it means to follow Jesus, the good, the bad and the ugly!!

With great excitement I can announce that we are going to be holding a beatbox workshop on the 28th March in the Miller Room at 3:30pm, the workshop is going to be led by Gavin Tyte, he can be found at humanbeatbox.com.

Please feel free to leave comments, (nice ones are good) or any ideas you might have could spark other's imagination.

See you at the next event. Jon

It's Snow Time

2009-02-07T16:37:00.005Z

One of the bad things about living where you work is that you can't make the excuse of not getting to work because of the snow, but my walk to work along the canal is fantastic, I've added a couple of my best ones, and besides working with the young people of Bathampton, well who wouldn't want to come to work!!!

Although it looks like the snow is over, the show continues, we have a full programme of events over the half term week, starting with a Dinner and Dance on Saturday 14th February, our Open Mic Night and a few afternoon games and activities, email me for more details.

In the near future we have a beatbox workshop and a CY taster, and lots more to follow. hope you enjoy the photo's. - Jon

The first two are a few weeks old, back when the canal froze over.

Thought I'd add this in for your amusement!!

Tiz' two weeks after Christmas

2009-01-13T18:16:00.004Z

How many of us have already broken our new years resolutions, or even decided that this year you were never going to try and make a resolution again. Well I still do make resolutions, both personal goals and for work. I think it is a good time to re-prioritise and raise the bar, one of my personal goal is to start running again, believe it or not I used to run marathons. Well I have competed and completed two back in 2000 and 2001. I have decided to go for the big one, so say the hardest marathon in the UK, The Snowdonia Marathon.

My aim in Bathampton is to raise the bar higher, we are looking into the spring term and beginning to think about summer and the summer holidays.

Just to start with we have finally come up with a name, well that is for our Wednesday night Youth Club, from now on it will be called Potassium, Oxygen, Sulphur, or the abbreviated version is K-OS and if you say it right you come up with chaos. I know I really am that clever!!!! We are pushing the monthly specials at K-OS, we already have had a pottery eventing, and for January we are going to do another special, with Burns night on the 25th Jan, we are going to and a Burns Night Special on the 28th Jan, even with a dressing of the Haggis being do by a true Scot, it comes complete with neeps and tatties, one not to miss! Other specials are going to include drama, fashion, craft, conservation, and Scalextric.

We are also looking at a Valentines Dinner and Dance, another Open Mic Night, another Pizza and Quiz Evening (Easter Special), Half Term Madness, A CY Course, hopefully a weekly Sign Language course, An Easter Labyrinth, A Unilevers Evening and a beatbox. More information to follow.

Just to go back to the Christmas Holidays, the adventure golf was a great success, not too sure about the score averages, but they ranged from 53 (course par is 54) to over 200. The back nine let me down, after the first nine I was at 33 strokes, but the course got harder and my score ended at a disappointing 82. more practice needed I think.

Finally just to wish you a great 2009. Jon

T'was the week before Christmas

2008-12-16T10:52:00.004Z

Time is ever ticking, and it has been ages since I have put anything up on the old blog. Actually it has been three weeks. A fair amount of stuff has been happening, our Wednesday night youth club is slowly filling up with around 15 yp's attending, I had a fantastic name for the club 'Weight', no one went for it, the reason being Wednesday night youth club was too big a mouthful. I took the WE of Wednesday and the IGHT of night and combined them to Weight. Never mind! We are still pondering the name for the complete youth work here in Bathampton. I have decided it has to be a work that starts with the letter 'B', a few to get you thinking is Beat, Barmy Bat, Bijou, Barn and my favorite Borstal. Imagine if you will the conversation at home, 'Mum, Mum can I please go, everyone is there, it's so not fair...I want to go to Borstal!!!' Maybe not!

Anyway, what else has been happening then? We have continued with our Sunday morning session called Pathfinders, we are currently looking at what it means to be a disciple, a follower of Jesus. Sunday evenings we have our YF meeting, 'YF' stands for Youth Fellowship, this is a group that takes a look at the Bible, sees if it has any relevance for today and what it could tell us about living life.

Looking ahead, we have our Pizza and Quiz Christmas Special on Monday 22nd Dec. Followed by a Uni leavers return party to 'see in Christmas Eve'. We are also planning an Adventure Golf session on 2nd January, see Jon for a permission form.

Going back to WNYC (Wednesday night youth club) The New Year brings a new change, by popular demand we are changing things around slightly and it is going to be 6:30pm - 8:30pm. We are going to introduce a monthly special, there are going to include Drama, Scalextric and Fashion.

I guess that is enough for now... see you at the next event - Jon.

Entertained? We were!

2008-11-25T18:07:00.003Z

It could have been the evening where in years to come I can say, "I was there!" And I think I probably will, the talent was truly something to behold.

The evening started with the superb Oasis cover 'Wonderwall', followed by what can only be described as a bizarre Guitar and Kazoo rendition of Rihanna's Umbrella, it had to be seen to be believed. we had a variety of other acts, including comedy and name the riff. the evening finished with a beautiful cover version of Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah.

The audience were in great voice, whether that was because of the acts or just the vast volume of 'E' numbers they consumed, via the tuck shop. we can but hope it was their enthusiasm for the performance.

The evening came to an end and the feeling was overwhelming, this had to be done again, at a glance at the calendar, I am voting for Friday 27th February, or somewhere around there anyway. Our next event is a Pizza and Quiz Christmas Special, Monday 22nd December, 7pm - 9pm. I have had to adjust the price to I think a bargain at £2.

I hope very soon to sit down with the diary and get a few events sorted for 2009. All the latest information here on the blog.

The first of many

2008-11-13T09:15:00.003Z

Our Wednesday night youth club is up and running, not sure about any others but I had a great time! Pizzas, cookies and JK's famous Hot Chocolate (they are in Wales!!) were the order of the day.

The idea of this club is to have a place where you can come along with your friends and hang out, do stuff or not. We have Bopit Extreme 2, high score so far 132, who thinks they can beat that? Also chess, draughts and twister. We have a budget to buy a few more things and are looking for more ideas of what you would like, we have creating a wish list for you to add on what you want, also what other activities you would like to see happening, either weekly or otherwise. Come along Wednesdays 6pm - 8pm to the Miller Room. £1 subs, and hopefully a tuckshop will be coming soon!

Wednesday Night Youth Club is a bit of a mouthful, so we do need to create a name for the club, any ideas would be welcome. Talking of names, the name for the whole of the youth activities at St. Nicholas 'Nothing Really Planned' has a competitor, someone has come up with the name 'BOAT' standing for Bathampton's Outreach Activities for Teens, can anyone better that?

Don't forget our Open Mic Night on the 22nd November, we have a few entries, a few more would be great, if you have a song, or a dance, poem or instrumental piece, or a comedy routine, ring or email me to get your name on the bill.

We also have another event planned, a Pizza and Quiz Christmas Special on Monday 22nd December, 7pm in the Miller Room. £1 per person, come as a team or join one on the night.

See you at an event soon - Jon

What a night!!

2008-11-01T11:18:00.006Z

I can't believe that I survived a Jake Tempo quiz, there has never been a time in my life that I have felt so thick, and I wasn't even taking part in the quiz. Thankfully Bathamptonites (is that a real word) are very educated and did very well. I think I can speak on behalf of everyone, when I say a good night was had by all, and some interesting facts learnt, not only fun but an educational evening!

Our Quiz Master and Fountain of all Knowledge. Mr. J. Tempo Esq.

Proof enough for Ruth and Marilyn to get their men working around the house!

Although, the Pizza and Quiz night is over, this really was the start of the youth work in the village, I am hoping to push the boat out now, we have our weekly youth club starting on 12th November in the Miller Room. I have a plan for the first meeting, to have a bit of time where we can get together and contuinue to be creative over our ideas of what we would like to see happening and ways forward in the near future of events, especially with Christmas around the corner. I know I shouldn't have used that word just yet, although we are in November now!! Just a few other things planned for our first evening. I am hoping to do some cooking, cookies if all goes well, a few board games, and one or two other ideas. It is a bit of a suck it and see evening, and hopefully for those that come we can tailor make the club to suit you.

hope to see you soon

Some events up and coming

2008-10-17T12:36:00.004+01:00

I am having an attempt to add a poster into this blog, but thinking I am going to fail, so I'll just add in the details to this text. I bizarrely use a programme called Corel WorkPerfect to do most of my posters and other documents, I was sold it many years ago as the next big thing, well some you win, some you lose!

Imminent events
Friday 31st October
Pizza and Quiz evening
7pm - 9pm
£1 per person
Bathampton Village Hall
Teams of six, come as a team or join a team on the night

Saturday 22nd November
Open Mic Night
with special guests
7pm - 9pm, entries being taken (free)
Drinks and snacks available
£1 on the door
The Miller Room

Wednesday 12th November
Regular weekly event starting
No specific group, just see what develops
6pm - 8pm
£1 subs
The Miller Room

All events are for secondary school aged young people and above.

A month already

2008-10-07T13:13:00.000+01:00

Tomorrow, the eighth of October, I start my second month as the youth worker in Bathampton. It feels like I have been here for far longer than that, and yet only seems like yesterday the van turned up with all of my worldly posessions to Bathampton.

Well, what have I been up to in the last month. Mostly visiting, people of the church and I have started to see the young people of Bathampton, with my thought provoking questionnaire.

So far I have seen 16 young people, but this is just the tip of the iceberg, I have started quite a big list of others still to see! and these are just the over 11's. Other activites have included the Sunday Morning Pathfinders, Sunday night YF group and the superb table tennis club, lets hope that we might see some in London at the 2012 Olympics!

I am hoping to start some clubs soon after the half term, with a Pizza and Quiz night in half term, followed by a open mic night in late November early December.