TermTimes 117

W

P TI AN IN CK T ET O S

PETERBOROUGH

See page 15

the magazine for families

Issue 117 November 2015 - January 2016

ur

to all o

s reader

Plus WIN a SelďŹ e t-shirt

Christmas at SKYLARK

Christmas Dinner Boxes

see pages 12/13

Martial Arts

Meet Steven Arnold

the benefits

* Other classes available: Little Monsters (3-4), Active Start (5-6) & Teens to Adults (13 plus ).

Learn the traditional aspects & values of this fun Olympic sport.

FREE UNIFORM WHEN YOU JOIN

(7-12 YEARS)*

juniors taekwondo

LESSONS FOR ALL AGES & ABILITIES

FREE TASTER SESSION

Great Xmas Gift!

See page 10 for more details

Evolution Tae Kwon Do | Peterborough Martial Arts Academy | 3-4 Wainman Road | Peterborough PE2 7BU www.facebook.com/PeterboroughMartialArtsAcademy T: 01733 235230 www.evolutiontkd.co.uk

The essential FREE publication for you and your children

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www.termtimes.ltd.uk winter edition

A Very Merry

A very warm welcome to the winter issue of Term Times. By the time you read this, my favourite time of the year will finally be here; I am sitting writing this with a gingerbread latte at hand in order to get myself into the correct frame of mind! As ever, we have some great competitions and prizes in this issue including some family tickets to the Pantomime!

Ideally, by the time TT is in your book bags, all shopping is done, wrapping finished and food ordered all ready for the 25th. Despite all my promises last year, I am sure I will not be amongst the ranks of the organised, I think, like at exam time, the threat of imminent failure is a key motivator in my Christmas shopping tactics. One day I will get organised…maybe. In no way does my lack of organisation dent the feeling of excitement though; it’s funny to think that even in a family with two (relatively) young children we have already built some really special memories around this magical time of the year.

Whether it is a big part of your family life or something you don’t celebrate, it is virtually impossible to get away from the sentiment and excitement the end of December brings. I would love to think of all of our readers spending some precious time with family and friends and building new memories.

Whether you are off to Lapland to visit Santa, visiting family the length and breadth of the UK or having a quiet and peaceful time at home, we would like to wish you a very Happy Christmas and a joyous New Year.

Birthdays

Amanda

Happy 7th Birthday

Grace

Happy 9th Birthday

Freya 22 December

8 December Love From Mummy, Daddy and your whole family, we love you xxx

Love you millions, from Mummy, Daddy, and Charlie xoxo

Advertise with Have you a business aimed at youngsters and their parents?

Term Times reaches over 46,000 children and many more parents six times a year. Through a transparent and targeted channel, your business will be seen in a title read and respected for over 20 years.

Contact the team on 01780 757731 today or via steven@termtimes. ltd.uk for options available.

Contents 4 6 8 10 11 12/13 16 18 21 22

News round-up Fun fitness for your kids The Local Offer Take up Martial Arts Gift of flying Christmas at Skylark Experience Christmas Winter Swans Meet Steven Arnold Tools for Schools competition

Competition Entry

Enter at www.termtimes.ltd.uk

Mentioning the competition you're entering, send your name, age, address, phone number and school name to Term Times, 70 Rutland Road, Stamford, Lincs PE9 1UW or via email to steven@termtimes.ltd.uk

Alternatively, competitions will be posted on our website. Please ask your parents’ permission before entering via the internet. All winners will be picked at random and Term Times decision is final.

This magazine was designed by: Publication, leaflet & poster design Website design & development Computer maintenance (Apple & PC)

01733 772095 D E S I G N www.dimension6000.com

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Publisher: Steven Beacham | Editor: Amanda Stacey T: 01780 757731 E: steven@termtimes.ltd.uk www.termtimes.ltd.uk 70 Rutland Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1UW CMYK / .eps

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Term Times/Term Times Ltd are independently published and are trading styles of 12th Man Services and Solutions Ltd. Distributed free throughout primary schools in your area. Its aims are to inform families and children of current education issues, forthcoming events, places to visit, attractions etc. Every care is taken to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the time of going to press. However, please check opening times/entry fees etc., before setting out on a journey. We also aim to give teachers, parents and children, the opportunity to participate in the content of Term Times. Term Times does not intend to publish any racist, sexist or political matters, nor carry out editorial or advertising that may be considered to be offensive to families. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of Term Times or the schools that distribute it. The publishers cannot be held responsible for any erroneous or misleading claims or comments made by any contributor. Competition winners will have their details shared with the competition supplier for purposes of fulfilling delivery/provision of the prize. Details of the winners will also be published in a subsequent issue and by entering the competition you grant Term Times permission to publish these. Our thanks go to the schools for their assistance in distributing the magazine, and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank the advertisers who have supported this publication and made it possible. Please support them where you can.

NEWS

Improve 11+ vocabulary in a flash

Coates leaps into action!

Coates Primary School has been awarded a £10,000 Awards for All grant from the Big Lottery to develop a vibrant community wildlife and outdoor area in their school grounds.

They will be working with the amphibian and reptile conservation charity Froglife to complete the works that will include a wildlife pond complete with dipping platform, homes for wildlife, a log circle and a seating area for study for the local school and pre-school children, together with a quiet area for the Silver Lining Club and other visitors to sit and enjoy the space.

Head teacher Mrs Lindsey Boucher said: ‘We’re hugely grateful to the Big Lottery for awarding us this grant so that we can create this community resource. Our school wildlife area is an important part of our school site. Over recent years, this area, although rich in wildlife, has become overgrown in places and needs redesigning to meet the needs of everyone.’

‘Coates wildlife in action’ was developed to enhance the valuable habitats for wildlife and raising awareness among the school and local community about amphibians and reptiles and conservation efforts to protect them.

Froglife will be delivering the year-long project through their Leapfrog Schools Programme that offers schools a range of accessible and inclusive options to help them learn more about amphibians and reptiles. The project started with members of the school, parents, Governors and local Rotary Club all working with Froglife to start clearing the existing site ready for the redesign to start taking shape.

Froglife’s Ecologist, Katie Rowberry, said: ‘We are delighted to be working with Coates School on this project and have been impressed by their enthusiasm and commitment.’

The number of ponds in the UK have declined by 50% in last century and 80% of the remaining ponds are in poor condition.

If anyone from the local community would like to be involved in this project please contact Marion Seaton, School Business Manager at Coates Primary School.

Find out more about Froglife’s Leapfrog Schools project at www.froglife.org/leapfrog-schools/

Looking to boost your child’s vocabulary ahead of the 11+ exam?

The exam demands strong vocabulary and comprehension skills.

Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cards have been specifically created to improve children’s verbal reasoning skills and ultimately help them succeed in the 11+ Entrance Examination.

Featuring carefully selected words collated from recognised 11+ material, the cards will build confidence and vocabulary knowledge at the appropriate level tested in the 11+ Entrance Examination.

The flash cards will encourage your child to build up a bank of challenging vocabulary, synonyms, antonyms and compound words.

Easily portable in small sets, they are perfect for vocabulary practice on the go. They can be used in many ways – as classic flash cards, stuck up as words of the week, or a tool to make up your own games to challenge friends and family.

For more information visit: www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

Bring the family to Church Farm Christmas is always a wonderful time to bring the family to Church Farm at Stow Bardolph when Father Christmas will be in his magical woodland retreat.

No need to book, just turn up for a warm welcome from the whitebearded gentleman and his elf on Thursday to Sunday from 3rd December plus 21, 22 & 23 December. You can also visit ‘real life’ nativity scenes with resident animals in starring roles!

Visit the amazing Christmas gift shop, full of fantastic quality gifts for everyone, and the tea room, complete with home-made cakes and delicious lunches, will also be open.

The fabulous indoor ‘Treehouse’ play area is brilliant for the winter months. No matter what the weather, children can have hours of fun playing while the adults can sit and relax in a comfortable seating area.

Outside, there is also an adventure playground, giant undercover sandpit, straw barn, pedal tractors, as well as the ever-popular animals.

Find Church Farm just off the A10 at Downham Market www.churchfarmstowbardolph.co.uk (tel:01366 382162).

LOOK OUT FOR THIS! The Snow Queen at Angles Theatre, Wisbech. Want to see the story that inspired Disney’s Frozen? ...Well come along and enjoy this traditional Christmas Pantomine, starting on Friday, 11 December. More details www.anglestheatre.co.uk or call 01945 474447.

Little Scrummers rugby ‘Little Scrummers Rugby’ was set up in 2009 after the directors looked around for an activity their rugby-mad three-year-old could take part in.

Nothing inspired them - and so Little Scrummers Rugby began!

After this year’s Rugby World Cup, Little Scrummers has never felt so passionately about encouraging children to get involved in rugby and that is why, as a grass roots club, they have decided to franchise the business to spread the classes to more children across the UK (and beyond!).

With local clubs at Peterborough and Cambridge, 2-6 year olds can join in the fun too by booking in for a free trial!

For more information on franchises or to book in for a free trial go to www.littlescrummers.com 4

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PETERBOROUGH ARENA Come along and enjoy our NO QUEUE family fun wonderland.

Don’t wait around to see Santa, have fun and play before making your way to the grotto at your pre-booked time!

FUN GAMES BAKING ARTS/CRAFTS REAL SNOW AREA! AND S’HO HO HO much more.

PRE-BOOKED ENTRY ONLY. TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Follow us at Facebook/santasbarn and visit www.santasbarn.co.uk

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Gymnastics

fun fitness for your kids

GY M N A ST I C S A C A D E MY

FREE

However old your children are, there are classes for them to run, jump, express themselves and learn skills that underpin all sports. From the age of 3 they can join a Phoenix Gymnastics Gymmies class and, when they start school, they progress to the evening or Saturday classes. Even teens get a look in from 6.30 where they are helped to gain confidence in themselves and maintain the flexibility they had as youngsters .

There are Badges days where they get an opportunity to have their progress recognised by British Gymnastics and, as they progress to higher levels, they can enter competitions both at our gym and at other gyms. They all look fabulous in the Phoenix leotards and we encourage all the children to work together to perform displays, take part in promotional activities at festivals during the summer months and bring their friends along too.

As a result of their gymnastics training, you will see them grow in confidence in school and concentrate much better, as well as enhancing their performance in the swimming pool or on the football ground, hockey pitch or netball court.

Children learn the discipline of a sport and get to do their climbing, tumbling and flips Everyone can try gymnastics for FREE in safety. They spend many hours doing with a trial session. Both conditioning training and building stamina weekdays and weekend to put most adults to shame. Kids love the groups are available. competitive nature of doing more sit-ups Come and enjoy the than their friends as well as achieving community spirit of the their next move. When they show off to gym and keep your kids their friends that they can do backward fit at the same time. Call 07979 651099 now to walkovers, one handed cartwheels or splits, they will be asked to do their moves over book your and over which builds their confidence too.

FREE trial session. www.phoenixgymnasticsacademy.co.uk

6

TRIAL SESSION

Fun & fitness for everyone

Recreational Gymnastics for energetic kids and teens Monday to Thursday evenings & Saturday mornings Boys & girls classes 26 Maxwell Road, Woodston, Peterborough PE2 7JN

t 07979 651 099 e Phoenixgym14@yahoo.co.uk

www.phoenixgymnasticsacademy.co.uk

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FIRST CLASS LEARNING ENGLISH AND MATHS TUITION

PETERBOROUGH

Children learning to succeed CLASS TIMES: Monday 4pm - 6pm Tuesday 4pm - 6pm

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a FREE ASSESSMENT for your child

Individualised and flexible learning

plan for each child Compatible with National Curriculum Weekly Classes in the Hamptons on Mondays and Tuesdays Help your child to increase their confidence in school Ruth Ekblom – Centre manager T: 07957 893 287 or 01733 602 502 E: peterboroughsouth@firstclasslearning.co.uk

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Parents ... we are here to help Local Offer is an online resource providing information about services in Peterborough that help parents and children or young people with special educational needs or a disability. You can find it by going to the Peterborough City Council website and searching for ‘Local Offer’.

ONLINE RESOURCE

T

he offer is broken down into sections to help you easily find what you need. These include information on education, health, social care, money matters, childcare and more.

Alternatively, you can use it to find out more about processes, like assessments for education, health and care plans or what to do if you have a complaint.

Once on Local Offer, you can click on any icon to find more information and support, including a list of all the providers in Peterborough who offer services in that area. If you choose a provider, you can find out what they do, and if there are any criteria you need to meet, such as age ranges or types of special educational needs or disability.

We are always looking to add providers to the Local Offer, and setting up a listing is easy. You can include a description of the services you offer and how to access them and add in your contact details to enable families to contact you directly.

This helps young people, parents, carers and other professionals use this information to understand what is available to them in the local area and how to access it.

• You can access the local offer online by visiting www.peterborough.gov.uk/localoffer, or if you’d like more information, call our team on 01733 747474 or email localoffer@peterborough.gov.uk

Available for any occasion...

• plasma screens • loud music system • disco lights • Wii dance • karaoke • dance floor • smoke machine • custom made seating • drink optics • champagne ice buckets

Mums

No ordinary bus!

For toddlers up to 10 years old

Are you looking for flexible work?

Tired of juggling family and work?

Like helping people?

Want to work your own hours at your own pace?

Professional home based business, in the massive health & wellness sector. We are looking for honest, ethical & hard working individuals to become part of our successful team, earning £500+pm part-time or £3000+pm full-time.

• ball pit • slide • Wii dance and games • music • climbing wall • swing-ball and not forgetting the delicious Yummy • candy floss and popcorn machines Yummy!

• prices from £145.00 for a 2 hour party

A wide selection of coaches and buses available for hire ranging from 12 to 70 seats with seatbelts.

Disabled access coach with a lift available.

Full training & ongoing support provided.

For further information, with no obligation, contact Anne on 07572464385 or annereynolds3@yahoo.com /anne.reynolds.54379 8

Peterborough based

01733 351 694 info@deckerbus.co.uk

www.deckerbus.co.uk

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

BENEFITS of Martial Arts classes for children

Staying Fit

Self-Esteem

Listening Skills

Martial Arts classes for children helps them stay fit because of the variety of exercises on offer from running, to learning balance, to helping them improve coordination.

Some children can suffer from low self-esteem or confidence. Martial Arts instructors encourage kids no matter what level of ability they have. The grading system also helps motivate children and boosts their confidence as they progress from one belt to the next.

To learn new moves and patterns, children have to pay close attention to learn and then repeat their instructor’s guidance.

Social Skills Groups of children in Martial Arts classes get a chance to bond and build friendships as they support each other while learning new skills they can share together.

Teamwork As adults we know the importance of teamwork but for children it can sometimes be tricky for them to understand. Martial Arts classes help kids develop the right skills to understand the value of working together as a team.

Discipline While Martial Arts classes are fun they’re also built on the importance of discipline. For a child to achieve their next belt or learn a new move it requires selfdiscipline to practice.

Goal-Setting Martial Arts is all about selfdevelopment and learning. So setting goals or targets plays a big role in Martial Arts classes.

Self-Defence Martial Arts classes can show kids how to protect themselves safely and appropriately – in most cases without resorting to physical confrontation.

Focus and Concentration With so many distractions in the modern world we all understand the importance of being able to focus.

Each Martial Arts class requires periods of concentration.

Respect

Start in the New Year

Martial Arts are built on the foundation of respect for themselves and others. Classes can help kids see the value of respecting others in every part of life.

Most Importantly…

Martial Arts Is Fun!

Children get the chance to burn off energy, make new friends and play fun games while learning the core skills of Martial Arts.

For more information about kids Martial Arts classes in Peterborough, call 01733 235230 or visit www.evolutiontkd.co.uk

FirstAid First Aid COURSE DATES

Paediatric

7 & 8 December 2015 11 & 12 January 2016 8 & 9 February 2016

VENUE:

Centre 68, Westgate Church, Peterborough PE1 1RG BOOK NOW

T: 01733 351909 E: denise@fenlandfirstaid.co.uk www.fenlandfirstaid.co.uk 10

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Give the gift of

FLYING for Christmas

Are you struggling to find the perfect gift this Christmas? Or perhaps Dad is tired of receiving socks! Term Times takes a .sneak peek at what Classic Wings has to offer this Christmas Family-run Classic Wings who have operated since 1990 and this year celebrated their 25th anniversary of flying vintage aircraft at IWM Duxford, are offering pleasure flights to the public in classic aircraft.

This past year has been quite eventful for the company, as they were granted full CAA approval to offer passengers the opportunity to 'Fly in a Spitfire', one of the few operators in the UK to obtain this. They have also recently acquired a further Dragon Rapide and the imminent completion of the restoration of another Tiger Moth to add to their fleet.

The feeling of climbing aboard one of their magnificent aircraft, takes you to a different era - an experience that brings the past into the present and will be remembered for a long time.

But if you fancy the pure thrill of open-cockpit, take a flight in a genuine 1930s Tiger Moth - they will even lend you the flying jacket, helmet and goggles to complete the experience!

Wing to Wing flights, in which passengers fly in the beautiful Dragon Rapides in close formation with the Spitfire, is a very special and emotional experience. Then, at the beginning of this year, came the 'Ultimate' Flight Experience ...in a genuine WW2 Spitfire, something that was previously only considered a dream.

Visit www.classic-wings.co.uk or call 01255 473832 to buy a gift voucher, book a flight or to see the exciting range of flying experiences on offer.

Magical emorable M Magical ress Santa Exp Memorable

4-18 yrs

Every Saturday 9.30am -12.30pm

John Mansfield Centre Peterborough

Book your child’s space now for January term

All abilities welcome

ember to Santa Express 28th Nov ber

m 28th November 24thtoDece 24th December

All teachers are Royal Academy of Dance, Drama & Music trained

nvr.org.uk for details 01780 784444

nvr.org.uk s for detail 01780 784444

For over two decades we’ve championed an exhilarating approach to theatre school education in theatrical arts for young people.

Our school runs every Saturday for three hours of dance, drama & singing. We believe in building children’s talent and confidence in the arts from a young age to help them grow into budding performers.

All children have the opportunity of representation with top child acting agency Goldmans management!

Wansford Station, (A1) Stibbington, Nr Peterborough PE8 6LR ESSENTIAL BOOKING

n,

bingto , (A1) Stib n o ti ta S LR Wansford ugh PE8 6 ro o rb te e Nr P

Charity 263617

3617

Charity 26

NEXT PERFORMANCE – DISNEYLAND PARIS PARADE To book your child for a trial session or for details please contact Michelle: T: 07808 728243 E: peterborough@theatretrain.co.uk www.theatretrain.co.uk

Wansford Station, (A1) Stibbington, Nr Peterborough PE8 6LR

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Christmas dinner box: Christmas large veg box (original) £55.00 Feeds 6 generously Clementines 1kg, mince pies (6 pack)x 2, Christmas pudding 900g, cranberry sauce 230g, Pimhill oatcakes 150g, Cropwell Bishop Stilton 200g.

Christmas food shopping made easy.

Everything you need for your Christmas dinner, bar the meat or vegetarian centrepiece. A large vegbox (original) packed with Christmassy veg, 1kg clementines, 12 of our legendary mince pies, 900g fruity Christmas pudding, zesty cranberry sauce, award-winning Stilton and buttery oatcakes.

Christmas dinner box with turkey & trimmings: £139 Feeds 6 – 8 Large veg box (original), clementines 1kg, mince pies (6 pack) x 2, Christmas pudding 900g, cranberry sauce 230g, Pimhill oatcakes 150g, Cropwell Bishop Stilton 200g PLUS medium turkey 5.6 - 6.5kg, pigs in blankets (8pack) 300g x2 (PRE-FROZEN).

Christmas food shopping made easy.

Everything you need for a fantastic Christmas dinner in a box. A large veg box (original) packed with Christmassy veg, 1kg clementines, 12 of our legendary mince pies, 450g fruity Christmas pudding, zesty cranberry sauce, award-winning stilton and buttery oatcakes.

Plus a 6.5kg organic free range turkey and 16 pigs-in-blankets.

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Small Christmas dinner box with turkey & trimmings feeds. Feeds 2-3 £65.00 Contents of small veg box (original), stuffed turkey breast 1kg, pigs in plankets 300g x 1, cranberry sauce 230g, mince pies x 1, clementines 500g, Christmas pudding 450g, Pimhill oatcakes 150g, Caws Cenarth Perl Las blue (cheese) 150g.

Small Christmas dinner box with nut roast: £42 (serves 2-3) Suitable for vegetarians.

Contents of small veg box (original), nut roast 400g, cranberry sauce 230g, mince pies x 1, clementines 500g, Christmas pudding 450g , Pimhill oatcakes 150g, Godminster black pepper brie 150g.

If you wanted organic xmas dinner without the indulgent bits in the boxes above i.e the cheese, pudding, mince pies, we suggest the following: Order a veg box: prices range between £10.45 and £20.45 depending on size.

The veg boxes on Xmas week will be packed with Christmassy veg, all the essentials. Parsnips, sprouts, carrots, red cabbage, potatoes etc.

Add on meat: organic high welfare turkeys available. Prices range between small turkey 5kg £69.95 and banquet turkey 9kg+ £123.30 Other meat available; turkey breast/leg/ crown, chicken, duck, goose, beef.

OR Nut roast: vegetarian option. 400g. £7.95 Add other healthy Xmas favourites: loads of bits and pieces. Seasonal fruit eg. clementines, party bits and pieces like hummus, olives, smoked salmon, cooked meats.

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Helping children to achieve more The Children’s University gives 7 to 14 year olds (and 5 to 6 year olds with their families) the opportunity to experience high quality learning activities outside normal school hours.

A

t graduation ceremonies last year children were presented with over 300 certificates, celebrating an amazing 7,500 hours of extra learning at school clubs and validated Learning Destinations.

PETERBOROUGH

“The children’s self confidence soars when they join the CU as they are able to take part in some genuinely exciting and often unique learning opportunities outside school. The excitement and enthusiasm the children bring to their independent learning is a joy to see!”

“The graduation ceremonies are brilliant fun and I feel really proud of myself, but the best thing about the CU is the amazing experiences I’ve had. At the Raptor Foundation I flew a giant owl and learnt all about its natural habitat.” Max, aged 9

Activities included everything from ballet to bushcraft, giving as many children as possible the opportunity to learn something new.

For a comprehensive list of local and national Learning Destinations, visit www.childrensuniversity.co.uk

For more information on becoming a validated Learning Destination or about school membership, please contact Lisa Thomas, Peterborough Children’s University Manager on 01733 864784, or email l.thomas@beeches.peterborough.sch.uk

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Christmas Fair

Great rides with gia nt slides, carousels and more at Water side Garden Cent re, Baston, near Bour ne, Lincolnshire. Sa nta will also be in his to y shop on 22, 23, 24 December. Have a go at ice skating on the special rink. Call 01 778 560000. www.watersideg ardencentre.co.uk

Climb on board

Santa is back on the Nene Valley Railway, just off the A1 at Stibbington, near Pe terborough. Get on board his special train steaming out weekends and W ednesdays from November 28 to Ch ristmas Eve as well as December 21 -22. Call Santa hotline on 01780 78 4444 www.nvr.org.uk

Party away!

rm, party at the Fun Fa The big Christmas rs a fe of ) -8 (4 r be m ce Spalding, on 17 De oke and a as meal with Kara tm ris Ch al ion dit tra iss ! m to t no a - a party present from Sant ntial. Call se es ing ok bo , child Tickets £8.99 per .co.uk m ar visit www.funf 01406 373 444 or

as Horrible Christm

onks, lains to medieval m From Victorian vil rrible Ho Tudor treats, the Puritan parties to kers. ac cr u yo as will send History of Christm ge an ch Ex rn Co bridge Performing at Cam ets: adult ck Ti 9. y ar nu Ja to from December 14 family 7, senior- £12.50, - £22.50, child - £1 r 10. pe at se e fre plus 1 £55, schools - £9.50 . on 01223 357851 Call the box office

Wisbech Fayre

ve on Indulge your senses in all things festi s to a live tnut ches ted roas December 13 - from of stalls e rang e larg a be will re The . brass band the on e Fayr s at the town's annual Christma tre.

Cen ping shop ir sefa Market Place and Hor

s M a m a t r s g i u r i c h o a C l Y

Yuletide events everyone will love Park adventure

as you the Christmas Trail Hunt for clues on Park, try un Co ws do Mea walk around Ferry til un m December 19 Peterborough, fro .

3) January 3 (10sitor t (50p) from the Vi Collect a trail shee prize. ur yo im return to cla Centre where you n joi to e m lco s are we Children and adult ild d wild crafts on 'W an al on as se e in som the at 2) 0cember 23 (1 Wednesday' on De free is Th . ws do Ferry Mea Discovery Den at . itable for all abilities indoor event is su 93 or ust on 01733 2341 Call Nene Park Tr org.uk st. tru rk pa es@nene e-mail visitor.servic

Friends in the Grotto

Pop into Santa's grotto at the Skylark Garden Centre at Wimblington , near March, each weekend from November 28 and throughout December to meet him , his friendly elf, Peppa Pig and many more. Call 01354 741212 or visit www.skylarkgarde ncentre.co.uk

tmas Best 'Father Chris crewell ever' returns to Sa

e best itor in 2013 as ‘Th Described by a vis ides pr ell ew cr ever’, Sa Father Christmas ardaw e th at t en ev as itself on its Christm at as ction. Christm winning farm attra m 28 ce at weekends fro pla s ke Sacrewell ta mber. ce De 4 -2 19 m ily fro November and da .org.uk ell ew or www.sacr Call 01780 782254

Magic of Aladdin Music, adventure and excitement - and a magic lantern. The all-singing, all-dancing Aladdin panto promises a month of great entertainment at Peterborough's Key Theatre from December 3 to January 3. Tickets from £10 to £18.50. Call 01733 207239 or visit www.vivacity-peterborough.com 16

Audience with Father Christmas

Victorian-inspired Father Christmas makes a special visit to Lincoln Castle on the 28, 29 November and 12, 13, 18–23 December at various times throughout the day. Hear his tales of Christmases past in 30-40 minute indoor sessions when children can ask him questions, plus there's an opportunity to take your own photo. All youngsters receive a special Victorian-themed gift. Adults £4, Children £8 - For details, visit www.lincolncastle.com

Polar expedition!

Gift Fair

Wide range of arts, crafts and gifts in the indoor arena at Wood Green's Christmas Gift Fair on December 12 (10-4). Admission: £2.50 (concessions £2). Call 01206 263088.

Wicksteed train Get your ticket from the elves, mak e a special wish in their workshop and clamber aboard the Christmas train for a gentle jour ney around Wicksteed Park's lake to see the festive lights. Afterwards, have a minc e pie and a warming drink before walking around the giant lantern display (December 5 & 6, 12 & 13, 18-23). Call 01536 512475 to pre-book your place in the elves' workshop.

Treat your little on es to a journey to the North Pole in the Magica l Christmas Wonde rland that is Santa’s Barn at th e Peterborough Ar ena, East of England Showgr ound. Open every Friday, Saturday and Sund ay from 4 Decembe r plus 21, 22 & 23 Decembe r. Play in a real snow area, bake with Mrs Claus in her kitchen, make a model out of magic elf snow and slide and boun ce on the new range of inflat ables. There will be games, dances and regular cracker competition s to win cash prizes, a fam ily pass to Santa’s Barn 2016 and more. Visit ww w.santasbarn.co.uk

Beauty and the Beast The popular Polka dot pantomimes return to Stamford Arts Centre for the Christmas panto season to put on Beauty and the Beast - January 7 & 8 (10.30, 6.30), January 9 (11, 2, 6.30) and January 10 (11, 2). Seats: £12 (£11), groups of 10+ £9, schools £7. Call 01780 763203 www.stamfordartscentre.com

Cathedral Nativity

ry at Peterborough A 30-minute nativity sto 17 will be told by a ber Cathedral on Decem atre, singing and local pre-school using the Arrive by noon for audience participation. service for young 12.30 start. Christingle s at the cathedral ilie fam ir children and the Seasonal readings, on December 19 at 3pm. nges. carols and Christingle ora dral.org.uk he cat ghwww.peterborou

Real Reindeers There is 26,000 square feet of Winter Wonderland at Baytree Nurseries near Spalding where you travel on a sleigh to see the toy workshop and San ta's little helpers.

Feed a carrot to real rei ndeers. Santa will give you a gift and a real Christ mas tree, included in the £9 charge. Specia l rate for school parties of 10 or more. Call 0140 6 372828.

Snow White Hi Ho, Hi Ho! It’s off to the panto we go! Go down to the Commemoration Hall, Huntingdon, from December 11 to 19 and the Maltings, Ely, from December 22 to Januar y 10 for the fairest panto of them all: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Tickets: £10, £12, £14, £1 6 (family tickets £47/£54). To book: box office@kdtheatre.co.uk or call 01638 781037. www.termtimes.ltd.uk winter edition

Follow the Yellow Brick Road

g and A tale that has fascinated children youn of Oz ard Wiz ul derf Won The s, year for old ough, panto comes to the Cresset, Peterbor nation Coro g urin feat 30, to 2 from December to .50 £10 ets Tick ld.

Arno en Stev star Street o.uk set.c .cres £14. Call 01733 265705 www

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Embrace winter with

thousands of swans The UK is an incredibly important country for birds in winter. Although we have cold winters here, in reality, we are much warmer than most of Europe at this time of year.

Y

ou might be lucky enough to see thrushes like fieldfare and redwing in your gardens during the harshest weather but there are thousands more birds making journeys to other habitats.

It is vital that birds have access to fresh water, both to drink and to wash in. The countries they are coming from will get so cold that much of the fresh water freezes and becomes unavailable. Wetlands provide birds with fresh water and so tend to attract many species, some of which migrate in their thousands.

The wetlands at WWT Welney provide a winter refuge for thousands of swans, the sight and sound of which is incredible.

Whooper swans from Iceland and Bewick’s swans from Arctic Russia join our resident mute swans.

The safety of the reserve offers these birds a place to rest overnight and the surrounding arable land provides these birds with essential feeding areas. During the day the swans are busy eating sugar beet tops, rotten potatoes and spilt grain from the harvest. They return to the reserve throughout the day to drink and feed but the majority fly back at dusk WWT Welney puts on commentated wild swan feeds to give you a chance to see whooper and mute swans up close.

Ducks such as pochard, tufted ducks and

the more familiar mallard join in with the feed, which also gives the birds a bit extra during the coldest days of winter. The guide helps you find out more about the incredible lives and journeys of the birds and, as the audience, you can enjoy this experience from the centrally-heated hide!

As well as the daytime feeds, the swans are fed in the evenings on an illuminated lagoon. The inky black water covered with hundreds of white swans is a sight not to be missed. The birds glide on the water as they await the feed, only then coming closer. These are the best feeds to spot some of the ringed swans.

For more details see the advert on page 17 or visit www.welney.org.uk.

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COMPETITION CORNER

Festive TV viewing

Let’s go to Big Sky! A fun time awaits everyone at Big Sky indoor adventure play area in Peterborough. While mum and dad can relax with a coffee in the lounge, there is a lot for the children to enjoy. Give the climbing wall a go or the new razor rip riders. Speed around the circuit with the didi cars or, if you are brave enough, have a go on the demon drop slide.

There is also a toddler area for the under-fours with soft toys and climbing equipment. Full diner facilities provide the option to have tea or lunch.

It’s a great location also for birthday parties that last for two hours. For more details, visit www.bigsky.co.uk or call 01733 390810.

COMPETITION Term Times has 6 family day passes to win (2 adults and 2 children). The tickets are valid until 31 March, 2016. Simply enter your details for a chance to win. Please enter via the normal instructions on page 3. Closing date is 5 January, 2016.

Have an Elfie Selfie Christmas!

The Selfie Clothing Co has launched the perfect personalised gift for your little ones this Christmas.

Rather than fork out a small fortune on run of the mill festive wear, Mums and Dads across the country can upload their favourite picture of their little one and see it on a top that’s inspired by the season.

John Treby, owner of Selfie Clothing Co, said: 'My boys love Christmas and always enjoy dressing up as part of the festive celebrations. Rather than spend money on badly-made Christmas-themed clobber that never fits properly and gets quickly abandoned, we wanted to give people the option to create something unique that could be enjoyed in the run up to Christmas, or as a unique gift on the day itself.'

There are now 12 different Christmas t-shirt designs available online, including the Elfie Selfie, Frosty the Snowman and even a Mini-Claus.

With four different sizes available, children between the ages of two and eight can wear themselves with help from Selfie Clothing Co. Ready in a few clicks and handmade in the UK, the new hand-printed to order range can be delivered in just three days, so you won’t need to wait long for your one of a kind top to arrive.

The range is already a hit with John’s boys, and the other kids at their school, as well as parents across the UK and beyond.

COMPETITION 5 Lucky winners can claim their very own Selfie T-shirt. Simply enter your details via the instructions on page 3. Closing date: 1 December 2015.

To purchase t-shirts for Christmas gifts please visit www.selfieclothing.co.uk and use order code term20.

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By Kate Chapman

Christmas – it doesn’t seem like five minutes ago since we were de-tinselling the house, taking down the tree, eating the last of the mince pies, not to mention trying to find a home for all the lovely new things that Father Christmas kindly popped down the chimney.

And yet here we are again preparing to deck the halls once more and endlessly scouring Pinterest in a bid to come up with new and interesting things to do with our Elf on the Shelf.

I could go on forever listing all the things I love about the festive season - shopping for gifts, writing cards, decorating the tree, making (and eating!) the Christmas cake, catching up with friends and family, the joy on my children’s faces come Christmas morning - see I told you I could go on forever.

But I have another guilty secret - something else I can’t get through late December without. Christmas television.

I don’t normally watch a lot of TV - I’m partial to a good oldfashioned whodunit and love a funny film, but the rest of the time ours is on I’m usually being subjected to the likes of Ben and Holly or Topsy and Tim. But there’s something about Christmas television that I simply can’t help myself.

Most of you might well argue ‘why, when they’re all just repeats?’ And yes, you’d be right, I probably have seen most of them a hundred times but that’s the beauty of it - it wouldn’t be Christmas without a festive edition of the Two Ronnies, Only Fools and Horses or Miranda.

Nine times out of ten we’ve seen all the films before - Indiana Jones, ET, Elf and It’s a Wonderful Life immediately spring to mind.

But as a mum, I have a great excuse to watch the children’s ones again, and experience them through the eyes of my own little treasures. And despite what they say, I know the older generations love watching them too.

Anything featuring Wallace and Gromit and also The Gruffalo were big hits last year, but their favourites were, quite surprisingly, Mary Poppins, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and The Snowman - the latter first coming out when I was about their age.

I think it was the songs that captivated them in the first two, while the beautiful story telling in Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman is still as magical today as it was when it was first written back in 1978.

It proved such a hit that we had to invest in the sequel - The Snowman and the Snowdog - when it was released on DVD, and were still watching it on a regular basis well into February.

I suspect by the time you’re reading this column we’ll have seen it a few more times too! But it’s such a great film - I don’t mind indulging them.

Whatever you end up watching this year, I hope you have a happy Christmas!

Kate Chapman is a freelance journalist and writer whose work appears in a variety of newspapers and magazines. She also writes the blog Yellowbelly Mummy, charting the ups and downs of being a mum-of two in rural Lincolnshire.

/yellowbellymummy Follow her adventures by visiting: www.yellowbellymummy.wordpress.com

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Let’s meet ... Steven Arnold Appearing as the affable Scarecrow in the Cresset’s 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz' we find all about Christmas , school and favourite foods of ex-Coronation Street Star Steven Arnold First memories of primary school?

Probably my mum and dad making a big fuss of us moving up to big school and being proud about not crying on that first day!

My favourite school dinner would have been?

Sausage, chips and gravy - every time! And, of course, chocolate rice krispie cake for pudding.

What was your role in your first school show/ drama production?

I think the first show I did I was actually behind the scenes, I remember doing the lighting for a school show. As for my first on-stage part, I can’t remember what show it was but I was definitely picking up twigs and playing a peasant - so not too different to the scarecrow!

What would you have been if you were not an actor?

Probably either joined the army or joinery - I always liked woodwork. Once I did my first drama job, though, there was no question there was nothing else I wanted to do!

How many times do people call you Ashley in a day?

Not so much where I live, which is a quiet place but, as soon as I go back up north, I get it loads. People are nice and really polite though sometimes you can see them googling your real name before they come over to say hello.

Pork chops or beef burgers?

Pork chops.

Big break after school?

CBBC must have been fun?

I was actually still at school when it happened. My drama teacher asked me to come into the assembly hall with my brother and we met with an American producer and director from London. We ended up playing the two lead parts in a film called ‘This Boy’s Life’ which did really well and won a couple of awards. It was a big break for me because since then I’ve never stopped working!

Great fun, working with Justin Fletcher Fortunate to do panto with him again last year and had a great time.

What the best thing about being on TV? Doing something that I love, and having a job I wouldn’t swap for anything.

And the worst?

Learning the lines!

Who are your best friends in showbiz?

I’m still close to a lot of people from the Street.

I spent a long time there and made some great friends like Chris Gascoyne who plays Peter Barlow, Andy Whyment who plays Kirk, and Alan Halsall who plays Tyrone.

Been near an ice rink recently?

Nope! Haven’t even looked at one!

Tell us about Christmas in the Arnold house?

I’m often away for Christmas, but traditionally at home would be at my nanna’s, with all the family and a big roast. I’m back at home with the family this year which will be nice!

What’s the big man bringing you down the chimney on the 25th?

I always like to get pyjamas - so hoping for some cosy ones this year!

What sort of scarecrow will you be?

I think I’ll be warm, a little bit vulnerable and funny - I aim to be the character the kids can relate to from the start. I want them all to be my friends!

Words of advice for children who enjoy acting.

Always learn your lines as best you can so you’re not worrying on stage and can concentrate on your performance. And, as I was always told always totally believe in yourself.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Brudenell photography.

COMPETITION For your chance to win a family ticket to the pantomime, please answer the following.

What was Steven’s character name in Coronation Street?

Enter via instructions on page 3.

Closing date: 7 December.

Ticket subject to availability of chosen showing timings.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz 11-30 December

at the Cresset Theatre, Peterborough.

For ticket details call 01733 265705 or visit www.cresset.co.uk

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Winter garden advice with Mr Root!

FUN IN THE GARDEN

It may be cold outside, but there is plenty of fun garden activity for the family. Follow Mr Root’s advice on what needs to be done this winter!

MR ROOT FACT FILE Age 68 Favourite Lesson at School Woodwork Hobbies Gardening of course and cooking Favourite Food I make a very good apple pie with the apples from my orchard, which is my treat.

Favourite Music Jazz and big bands Best Day Out I like to take the grandchildren to Skylark Maze & Funyard in the summer and walking on the Norfolk coast.

Favourite TV programme I don’t have a TV Favourite Film I took the grandchildren to see Harry Potter last year which was enjoyable - or a good cowboy film.

Best Holiday I don’t like flying so I stay in this country and go to Bournemouth every summer and Christmas.

Favourite thing in the garden - Crab apple trees, lovely early blossom, leaves all autumn and I make jam from the fruit.

• Gather up all those fallen leaves and twigs off the grass.

• Make sure you wear gloves...you don’t want dirty hands!

• If there is a cold snap, get some fleece and wrap up your plants nice and snug.

• Use those leaves and twigs to build a compost heap to feed your plants.

• Protect your pot plants from the cold by moving them undercover, into your shed, porch or shelter.

• If the ground isn’t frozen plant tulip bulbs for some spring colour!

• If we get a sprinkling of snow, make sure it doesn’t rest on plants for too long. Go outside and brush it off!

• If we get a lot of snow, ensure your paths are kept clear and be careful not to slip!

• Now is the right time to plant roses for fragrance and flowers all summer.

Watch out for those thorns!

• Finally, get a pen and paper out and design your dream garden for Spring & Summer.

COMPETITION Does your school have a garden or area that supports wildlife? Is your Cub, Brownie, Beavers or Rainbows group active in the green outdoors? Well Term Times have teamed up with Skylark Garden Centre in March to offer one lucky school or group a chance to win some fabulous new gardening equipment.

The prize will include a great selection of tools such as spades, rakes, shovels everything you’ll need for the garden.

TO ENTER follow the instructions on page 3 and simply tell us what do you think Mr Root spreads on his toast in the mornings (from his garden!). One lucky winner will be selected at random. Closing date: 6 January 2016 .

For more information & events happening at Skylark Garden , see the advert on pages 12 &13 or visit www.skylarkgardencentre.co.uk

Aladdin at the Key Theatre

Puffin Book Review Escape to Wonderland illustrated by Good Wives and Warriors, paperback, £6-99, age: 7-16 This enticing and intricate colouring book is filled with highly-detailed line artwork that allows the magical fantasy of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland to be brought to be life. Pictures include iconic scenes from Wonderland and its array of extraordinary characters - such as the Mad Hatter, the Cheshire Cat and the Queen of Hearts.

The Rabbit Who Wants to Fall Asleep

by Carl-Johan Forssén Ehrlin, paperback, £7-99, age: up to 5 Do you struggle with getting your child to fall asleep?

This book turns nightly bedtime battles into a loving and special end-of-day ritual. This child-tested, parentapproved story uses an innovative technique that brings a calm end to any child’s day. When Roger can’t fall asleep, Mummy Rabbit takes him to see Uncle Yawn who knows just what to do.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid – Old School

by Jeff Kinney, hardback, £12-99, age: 9-11 Book 10 in the best-selling Wimpy Kid series could be the funniest books you'll ever read. Life was better in the old days. Or was it? That’s the question Greg Heffley is asking as his town goes electronics-free. But Greg isn’t cut out for an old-fashioned world. Is going ‘old school’ just too hard for a kid like Greg?

BOOKS FOR SCHOOLS

This competition is for anyone to participate in, with three winning entries gaining these books for their school. Visit our website to enter or post your details to our address on page 3. Closing date 1 January, 2016.

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Get ready for a Christmas Cave of Wonders at the Key Theatre with the brand new pantomime Aladdin, showing 3 December through to 3 January.

The story of Aladdin, the poor boy who finds fame and fortune thanks to a genie in a magic lamp, promises to build on the successes of two consecutive, record-breaking, sell-out pantos at the key – Cinderella (2013) and Jack and the Beanstalk (2014).

A side-splitting production genuinely like no other, with jokes and songs geared directly at Peterborough patrons, the show features a ‘genie-ous’ original script from acclaimed theatre-maker Brad Fitt.

Darren Machin plays the dame of dames Widow Twankey. In stark contrast to his TV appearances in Downton Abbey and New Tricks, Darren was in the West End with Privates On Parade and has worked with legendary dame Terry Scott as well as comedy greats Eric Sykes, Ray Cooney and Carry On's Bernard Bresslaw.

Beat the box office rush for this magical musical marvel and call the Key Theatre now on 01733 207239 or visit www.vivacity-peterborough.com to book your tickets early. Tickets from £11.00 - £18.50.

COMPETITION For a chance of winning a family ticket of four, please tell us who will be playing the Widow Twankey this year? Enter via instructions on page 3. Closing date is 1 December. This offer carries no cash alternative and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Tickets can be claimed for shows between Thursday 3 – Thursday 17 December 2015 and Saturday 2 – Sunday 3 January 2016, subject to availability.

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