Playgroups and classes
Norwich 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.
FOOTBALL FUN FACTORY IS HERE and making football fun and accessible to all is what we do best. The Football Fun Factory was designed to provide a safe, fun and thrilling environment in which children can develop their physical, social and cognitive skills at their own pace without any pressure what so ever.
We use the nations love for football to help and aid children’s development. Our environments are designed so that the children feel no pressure what so ever at all of our sessions. The only pressure is on the coaches to ensure that your children go away with big smiles on their faces.
Not only do we believe but we know that the best way to help children develop these skills is to make sure they have fun. Because without fun and enjoyment children will not want to remember or retain these skills.
We offer a multitude of opportunities which include our two weekly sessions, Football Fun and Development (Ages 5-12) and our Tots Football Fun (Ages 2-5). We also run our Football Fun camps during every school holidays and also do birthday parties and events.
For more information on our session locations in Norfolk and for general enquiries please email Mark.
At Kixx our goal is simple:
To have a positive impact on every child at every opportunity.
We do this through an innovative programme which offers a high energy, fun, age-appropriate introduction to physical activity through football.
Our programme has been carefully designed for both boys and girls between the ages of 2 and 9 years of age.
Kixx Academies
Our academies are 40 minute sessions run weekly. We do a block of 8 weeks, then a 1 week break, then another block and so on. You pay a one-off membership fee of £23.95 which covers your child’s football kit (shirt, shorts, socks) and then a direct debit of £30 per month. In effect it works out at around £6 per session. The bookings have a full money back guarantee – if after your first session you think it really isn’t for you, then you can get a full refund, plus your child keeps the football kit as a “thank you” for trying us.
Our Venues
We are adding more venues all the time. Currently we have academies at:
Loddon Jubilee Hall
NR14 6NB
Goals (Hall Road)
NR1 2GB
Poringland Primary School and Nursery
NR14 7RFFor more info and bookings visit our website. To contact us, just send us a message on Facebook. We look forward to welcoming you to the Kixx family!
Thorpe St Andrew School, Laundry Lane, NR7 OXS
Saturday: Early Stages (4-6 years)
Early Stages classes run alongside the main Stagecoach schools, where young people learn skills in each of the three Musical Theatre disciplines of singing, dancing and drama,
Email Principal Hannah or call to book your place.
City Academy, Norwich, NR4 7LP
The Workshop Studios is an artistic training venue offering high quality Dance and Theatre education for Pre-School to Pre-Vocational. Our all-round training includes class work, performance opportunities, choreographic projects, guest workshops and exams.
Avian Dance Studios, Unit 1D, Vulcan Road North, NR6 6AQ
A dance and performing arts school based in Norwich offering a wide range of dance and performance classes to suit all age ranges and abilities including ballet, baton twirling, acro and street dance. Classes begin from age 2+. Various sessions throughout the week.
Check their website for more information.
Updated 05/02/24
TOTS 6-18 MONTHS
Mondays: Hethersett Village Hall NR9 3JJ 11.10-11.40am
Tuesdays: Cringleford Willow Centre NR4 7JJ 11.05-11.35am
Thursdays: Mulbarton Scout HQ NR14 8AE 11.30-12pm
TINIES 18M-3YEARS
Mondays: Hethersett Village Hall NR9 3JJ 9.25-10am
Tuesdays: Cringleford Willow Centre NR4 7JJ 9.20-9.55am
Wednesdays: Queen’s Hill Community Centre NR8 5BP 9.30-10.05am and 11.20-11.55am
Thursdays: Mulbarton Scout HQ NR14 8AE 10.45am-11.20am
Fridays: Barford Village Hall NR9 4AB 9.30am-10.05am
Saturdays: Cringleford Willow Centre NR4 7JJ 9.15-9.50am
MOVERS 3&4YEARS
Mondays: Hethersett Village Hall NR9 3JJ 10.15-10.55am
Tuesdays: Cringleford Willow Centre NR4 7JJ 10.10-10.50am
Wednesdays: Queen’s Hill Community Centre NR8 5BP 10.20-10.50am
Thursdays: Mulbarton Scout HQ NR14 8AE 9.30-10.10am
Fridays: Barford Village Hall NR9 4AB 10.20-11am
Saturdays: Cringleford Willow Centre NR4 7JJ 10.05-10.45am & 12.15-12.55pm
GROOVERS 4.5-6YEARS
Saturdays: Cringleford Willow Centre NR4 7JJ 11-11.45am
Babyballet Norfolk Central offer fun, award-winning pre-school dance classes for children from 6 months to 6 years.
Call 07368 519637 for more info and to book.
Updated 15/01/24
Norwich Millennium Library, The Forum, Millennium Plain, NR2 1AW
Tuesdays 2-2.30pm, Babytime, aimed at babies aged 0 -18 months
Fridays 10.30-11am Storytime at Millennium Library, aimed at children aged 3-5 years
Saturdays Bounce & Rhyme 10.30am- 11am. Suitable for children aged 0-5 and their families.
No need to book this is a drop in session, space is limited so staff will manage capacity on the day.
01603 774777
Most other branch libraries offer a drop in session. Check the Facebook Norfolk Families for Libraries page for more info.
Monday & Thursday: The Willow Centre, Roundhouse Park, Cringleford, NR4 7JJ, varying times by age group
Saturday: Eaton Park Primary School, Duverlin Close, Norwich NR4 6HS , varying times by age group
Children’s dance classes covering Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz and Acrobatics
Contact Julie Gibbon 01603 261769 or Debbie Hawkins 01603 819036 to find out more.
Updated 15/04/24
Lakenheath Primary School, Mill Road, Lakenheath, IP27 9DU
Saturdays: First Saturday of every month, EPIC Dad Fun Club at 10am to 12noon (including games, crafts, toys, refreshments and lots more!)
Forthcoming Dates
Saturday 6th April (including Easter Egg Hunt)
Saturday 4th May (Star Wars Day Event)
No Club on Saturday 1st June
Forest School Event on Saturday 15th June at 2 to 4pm at Brandon Country Park
Sprowston Community Academy, Cannerby Lane, Norwich, NR7 8NE
Saturday: 9am – 10am, Sporty Tots is a fun introduction to sport for two to four-year-olds that develops balance, co-ordination, sending, receiving and striking skills. During the indoor weekly sessions, coaches use a variety of games and activities to engage the children, while parents are also encouraged to join in. Price £114 (£4.75 per session)
Visit the community sports foundation website for more information and to book.
Updated 15/02/2024
The GMOTFW Hub, Hewett Academy, Hall Road, Norwich NR1 2PL
Saturdays: Fortnightly between 10-12pm at Heather Room, Join ambassadors Gemma and Miranda for a free fun morning. Please note our playroom will not be open during this session. Refreshments provided.
Updated 15/02/24
Parent & Toddler sessions held every morning. For children aged 18 months – under 5 years. Must be accompanied by an adult.
SEN sessions held at various times.
Gravity Trampoline Park, Riverside Entertainment Centre, Wherry Road, Norwich, NR1 1WX
Contact 01603 964949 for more information or look at their website for latest sessions.
The Spinney, City Academy, Earlham Rd, Norwich NR4 7LP
As the oldest dance school and only ISTD Approved Dance Centre in Norfolk we have some of the most experienced, highly qualified teachers and fantastic facilities next to UEA.
Classes in Ballet, Modern, Tap, Street, Singing, Contemporary, Musical Theatre
Visit website for timetable, classes Tuesday-Saturday
07733341751
Updated 04/03/24
Sessions every week day. Times vary.
Notcutts Garden Centre, Daniels Road, Norwich , NR4 6QP
Gymboree Play & Music Norwich offer sensory classes for babies, as well as Play & Learn for little ones who are on the move.
Contact 01603 250585 to book or for more information.
Updated 15/04/24
Wood View Rd, Norwich NR6 5QB
Mondays: Stay & Play, 1.30-3pm. Free drop-in session with toys and craft for the children and a friendly space to chat and enjoy a hot drink for the grown ups. Suitable for under 5’s and parents/carers
Tuesdays: Bounce & Rhyme 1030 – 11am, Drop in for songs and music for pre-school children and parents or carers. Suitable for children aged 0 to 5
Fridays: Bedtime Stories 5.30pm
Saturdays: Lego Club 10.30-3.30pm & Lego Club 2 – 3.30pm, Come along and get creative building our weekly theme or your own creation. Suitable for all ages Duplo and Lego available. Children under 8 years of age must be supervised by a parent/carer
*Updated 28th February 2024
High Altitude Trampoline Park, 91 Whiffler Road, Norwich, Norfolk, NR3 2AW
Term-Time
Tuesdays: 1pm – 2pm (£5.50 per toddler and £2.50 per adult)
Thursday & Friday: 10am – 1pm (Jump n Lunch, £7.95 per person for 3 hours bouncing & lunch)
Saturday & Sunday: 9am – 10am
School Holidays
Saturday & Sunday: 9am – 10am
Contact 01603 567200 for more information.
Updated 15/01/24
The Long Barn, Elm Farm Business Park, Wymondham, NR18 0SW
Monday to Saturday: 1.5 hours, times vary, therefore, please refer to the booking calendar to check our availability.
Hugo’s is a high quality, educational, indoor play space based in Wymondham, Norfolk, where children can take part in unstructured play. Up to 6 years old.
Standard Sessions: Birth to 12 months £5.00 / 13-18 months £6.00 / 19 months to 6 years £7.00 / Adult £2.50 – Max 2
Themed Sessions: Birth to 12 months £7.50 / 13-18 months £8.50 / 19 months to 6 years £9.50 / Adult £2.50 – Max 2
01603 213 642
Avian Dance Studio, Vulcan Road North, Norwich, NR6 6AQ
Monday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday.
Jolly Gymnastics offer fun and friendly gymnastics classes for little ones from walking to school year 1. Classes vary depending on your child’s age and stage.
Contact 0776528118 to book or for more information.
Updated 15/01/24
Owen Barnes Room at Breckland Hall, Breckland Road, Norwich NR5 0RW
Monthly on Saturdays , 10:15am – 11:15am
Suitable from around 6 months/sitting unaided to 5 years. A craft table is available on request for older 6-10 years paying siblings.
Upcoming 2024 Themes: January Mythical Mess, February Farmyard Frolics, March Eggstra Big Mess, April Mini Beasts, May Outer Space, June Messy Circus, July Jungle Explorers, August Under The Sea, September Little Diggers, October Fangtastic Mess, November Tyrannosaurus Mess and December Messy Christmas
Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting messy! We recommend a change of clothes for little ones and please bring a towel.
From £4.75 – £9.50, Book ahead via website, maximum 2 adults per paying child.
.
Hewett School, Hall Road, Norwich, NR1 2PW
Little Springers Structured (Parent & Toddler)
A 45 minute structured class for both parent and child, led by a qualified pre-school coach.
Little Springers Independent (3+ years)
A 45 minute structured class for children aged 3-5 years which is led by a qualified pre-school coach.
Little Springers Free Play
A 45 minute free play class for both parent and child to explore the gym and play on the gymnastics equipment. Parents are fully in charge of their child/children throughout the session with coaches overseeing the session.
Spring Gymnastics, Long Stratton Leisure Centre, Swan Lane, Long Stratton, Norwich, NR15 2UY
Pre-school gymnastics at Spring Long Stratton*
Our ‘Little Springers’ classes are designed for children from 1 year old to school age and aim to develop their balance, co-ordination, gross and fine motor skills, special awareness, body control as well as prompting social interaction, all in a safe and fun environment.
Saturdays: 8.00 – 8.45am Little Springers Play
A 45 minute free play class for both parent and child to explore the gym and play on the gymnastics equipment. Parents are fully in charge of their child/children throughout the session with coaches overseeing the session.
Contact Heidi Palmer on 07895725610 or visit their website for more information.
Updated 15/01/24
Weekly, term-time and holiday football courses for ages 2-11 at venues across Norwich.
Disability football, water exercise and dance courses also available.
Call 01603 984000 to find out more and book.
St Michael Coslany Church, Oak St, Norwich NR3 3AE
Improve your child’s confidence and coordination in a non-competitive environment. We offer classes from ages 3 – 18 for all levels and include performance opportunities in our yearly program.
Saturday: Circus Tots – 3-5yrs 10am, Youth Circus – Acorns – 6-10yrs 11.15am, Youth Circus – Saplings – 8-12yrs 1pm
Mondays
4.30pm: Youth Beginners Class 6-16 years
Tuesdays
4.30pm C.A.N Plus Circus Academy Norfolk 8-20 years
Wednesdays
5pm: Youth Circus Improvers and Pre C.A.N Circus Academy Norfolk 6-16 years
Saturdays
10am: Circus Tots 3-5 years
11.15am: Youth Circus Acorns 6-10 years
1pm Youth Circus, Saplings 8-12 years
2.45pm Youth Circus Oaks 11-16 years
Sundays
12.30pm: SEN Friendly Circus Class 8-15 years
2pm: SEN Friendly Circus Class 8-15 years
3.30pm: TWINKLE SEN Circus Class 7-15 years
01603 568634
Updated 15/02/24
Hellesdon High School, Norwich, NR6 5SB
Saturdays: 9-9.30am & 9.40-10.10am (2-3.5 years), 10.20-11.05am & 11.15-12pm (3.5-5 years)
Framingham High School, NR14 7QP
Sundays: 9-9.30am & 9.40-10.10am (2-3.5 years), 10.20-11.05am (3.5-5 years)
Morley Village Hall, Golf Links Road, Morley, Wymondham, Norfolk NR18 9SU
Saturdays: 9-9.30am & 9.40-10.10am (2-3.5 years), 10.20-11.05am(3.5-5 years)
Weekly sessions for boys and girls to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.
Visit website for more information.
Updated 15/02/24
9 Sandy Ln, Taverham, Norwich NR8 6JR
Tuesdays: Autism Friendly After School Lego Club 3.15 – 4.15pm
Wednesdays: Bounce & Rhyme 1030 – 11am
Thursdays: Stay, Play & Chat, 1.30-2.30pm
Fridays: Under 5 Story Time 2 – 3pm
Saturdays: Board Game Saturday 10.30-3.30pm & Lego Club 2 – 3.30pm
Check Facebook page for details
*Updated 11th January 2024*
11 Riverside Walk, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 2BB
Open everyday with morning (10-12pm) and afternoon (12.30-2.30pm) sessions. £10 per ticket
A world of sensory, imaginative and creative indoor play. Come and explore our natural, open-ended resources to inspire your children’s big imaginations. An inclusive place welcoming children aged 0-7 with their adults.
Book via website.
Hethersett Junior School, Queens Rd. NR9 3DB
Saturdays: varying times for twinkling stars (1-2yrs), Shining Stars (2-3yrs) and Shooting Stars (3-6yrs)
Thorpe Marriott Village Hall, The Square. NR8 2UT
Saturdays: varying times for twinkling stars (1-2yrs), Shining Stars (2-3yrs) and Shooting Stars (3-6yrs)
Wymondham Abbey Hall, Church Street. NR18 0PH
Mondays: varying times for twinkling stars (1-2yrs), Shining Stars (2-3yrs) and Shooting Stars (3-6yrs)
Thorpe St Andrew Village Hall, Yarmouth Rd. NR7 0QF
Tuesdays: varying times for twinkling stars (1-2yrs), Shining Stars (2-3yrs) and Shooting Stars (3-6yrs)
Sprowston Sports and Social Club, Blue Boar Lane. NR7 8RJ
Wednesdays: varying times for twinkling stars (1-2yrs), Shining Stars (2-3yrs) and Shooting Stars (3-6yrs)
Sessions fees are £7 each, payable half-termly in advance. Siblings attending in same session will receive a 50% session fee discount.
Updated 15/01/24
Contact Jo Marchant on 07821 030106 for more information.
17 High Street, Ixworth, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP31 2HH
Weekday Term-Time Sessions: 9.30-11.30 (Monday-Friday), 12.30-2.30pm (Tuesday-Friday) or Play all Day 9.30-2.30pm (Wednesdays)
Weekend / School Holiday Specials: 9.30-11.30am & 12.30-2.30pm
No child too small, or imagination too big.
Explore, play and create!
Including sensory, messy, imaginative and outdoor play using open-ended resources.
Prices from £11.50 per child, under 6 months free with a paying child. Visit website for details.
Updated 15/01/24
