TermTimes 158

Welcome Back!

Hopefully we’re on course for a hot summer and this issue is packed with places to go, activities to try and events not to miss. We would love to see some of your summer pictures shared on social media.

If you have pets look out for the advice sessions Woodgreen Pets Charity are running and see our guide to local dog friendly beaches. Redwings Horse Sanctuary in Norfolk will be celebrating with birthday parties for their Adoption Star horses and Welney Wetland Centre,

which is brimming with wildlife, has the Drawn to Water Quentin Blake exhibition. We also launch our new Community Club Awards partnered with Hegarty Solicitors who now have a new office in Marketing Deeping. Clubs and organisations provide so much for our children and this is a way we can recognise them.

Enjoy your summer and see you in the new term! PS If you’ve not entered your team or family in the Anna’s Hope 5k Fun Run, there is still time… see page 12 for more details.

Amanda

ur 27 July:

Clay Flower Hedgehogs

Tue 1 Aug:

Fishbowl Bubble Painting

ur 3 Aug: Clay Ladybirds

Tue 8 Aug: Clay Sunshine

ur 10 Aug: Clay Axolotl

Pottery Painting and Clay Activities for Children, Adults and Families

Tue 15 Aug: Clay Confetti Fish

ur 17 Aug: Bubble

Painting Under the Sea Plate

Tue 22 Aug: Clay Sun ower

ur 24 Aug: Clay Fruity Trinket Dishes

Call

to book 01406 258 210 or BOOK ONLINE www.doodlecra s.co.uk

Tue 29 Aug: Clay Caterpillar

ur 31 Aug: Clay Elephant

this

Competition Entry

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

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

Contact

Publisher: Steven Beacham

Editor: Amanda Stacey

T: 01780 757731

E: steven@termtimes.ltd.uk

70 Rutland Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1UW

Term Times distributes printed copies to parents six times a year, within over 180 local primary schools. Your business will be seen in a title read and respected for over 20 years...

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Advertise with us PUBLICATION LAYOUTS | IT SUPPORT WEB DEVELOPMENT | BRANDING 01733 772095 www.dimension6000.com E d i t o r i a l News 4 Swim with Billie’s Fins ......................7 Summer holiday fun..........................8 Community Club Awards...............10 Running tips ..........................................12 Summer at Vine House Farm .......14 Beaches for dog walks 16 Perfect pet care 17 Summer at Nene Park 18 Education in summer break ..........19 Competition winners and birthdays 22 In

Explore Unofficial Galaxies

Calling all Star Wars fans. Tickets are now on sale for Unofficial Galaxies, the exciting out of this world exhibition coming to Peterborough Cathedral this summer.

This is a rare chance to see one of the largest private Star Wars fan collections in the world with over 120 incredible exhibits; including a life-size Landspeeder bought from London’s Elstree Studios and the desk and chair of young Anakin Skywalker. Will it all fit through the South Portico? Let’s hope so!

Tickets cost £10 adult, £6 child/student, and a family ticket is £30 (2 adults and up to 3 children or 1 adult and up to 4 children).

Carers go free with a paying ticket, for details please email: info@peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

There will be a number of quiet sessions available for those with additional needs when the music will be turned off and the lighting adjusted.

Fancy volunteering at this highly anticipated event, and get the chance to meet visitors from all over the country? Whether you are retired, a student or just want to meet new people, Peterborough Cathedral has the perfect volunteering role for you. Various days and times will be available.

For full details and to book tickets visit: www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/galaxies.aspx

Trot Along to Redwings this Summer!

If you’re looking for a day out and love animals, Redwings Horse Sanctuary will be opening its two visitor centres in Norfolk daily from 30 June through to 25 September.

Not only that, but both sites have Adoption Star horses celebrating their birthdays with parties over the summer holidays too – and everyone is invited!

Redwings Caldecott near Great Yarmouth, Norfolk:

• Sampson’s birthday party: Sunday 2 July

• The Gangsters’ birthday party: Sunday 30 July

• Fox’s birthday party: Sunday 6 August

• Noah’s birthday party: Sunday 20 August

• Lily’s birthday party: Sunday 3 September

After making plenty of new four-legged friends, you can put your feet up with a cuppa and a slice of cake in the cafés or browse the shelves of the gift shops to find a lovely keepsake from your day. All proceeds go towards the care of Redwings’ rescued residents.

Redwings is dog friendly and free to enter but donations to support their work are most welcome.

Trot across to their website for more information: www.redwings.org.uk/visiting

Martial Arts is Fun at Hicks

At Hicks Family Martial Arts School, they believe that martial arts is not just about selfdefence, but also about having fun and making new friends.

It’s one of the most established and qualified martial arts schools in the country with highly trained and experienced tutors, dedicated to providing the best possible martial arts education for children. They have a proven track record of success in developing students who are skilled, confident, and disciplined.

Hicks use a combination of traditional and modern techniques to ensure students are well-rounded and prepared for any situation. This includes training in striking, grappling, and self-defence techniques, as well as forms and sparring.

One of the best things about martial arts training is the opportunity to create new friendships away from school. At Hicks Family Martial Arts School, children have the chance to train with other students who share their passion. Classes are designed to be fun and engaging, and instructors encourage students to work together and support each other. They strive to create a positive and supportive environment where students can learn and grow while having a great time. Classes are designed to be challenging and rewarding, so that every student should leave feeling proud of their accomplishments. The classes run in Fengate in Peterborough, Eye and Deeping.

Kids' Kingdom comes to Queensgate

How about getting your child to learn a new skill this summer and make some new pals? It’s

Are your little ones dreaming of becoming a chef, doctor, or builder?

Look no further! Queensgate Shopping Centre is excited to unveil its most adventurous summer yet – Kids' Kingdom.

Get ready for an extraordinary journey where children can step into the world of grown-ups and explore their wildest dreams and aspirations from 31 July to 27 August.

Set to transform North Square, Kids' Kingdom is a captivating city designed exclusively for children. With a range of immersive activities, young adventurers will have the opportunity to experience different careers and embrace their independence. From playing doctor at the surgery to designing beautiful bouquets at the florist or mastering the art of cooking at the pizzeria, children will discover that their potential knows no bounds!

This extraordinary, educational, and interactive experience offers six distinct professions and trades, including a doctor's surgery, florist, pizzeria, hairdressers, construction site, and supermarket. Children of all ages are invited to join in the fun. A small charge of £1 is applicable that goes to charity.

GrimsthorpeCastle

With 3000 acres of parkland to explore, there’s plenty to do, including cycle and walking trails, formal gardens, a lake and gift shop.

Children can burn off energy in the Woodland Adventure Playground, which includes an adult trim trail, zip line, slides and climbing frames

Our pop-up trailer offers delicious refreshments, with indoor and outdoor seating available. Visit this summer to enjoy Storytelling, Outdoor Cinema, Car Shows, Theatre and more!

Buy a Season Ticket for 2023 to enjoy all Grimsthorpe has to offer!

Learn to Swim with Billie’s Fins

Billie’s Fins is a private swim school where they pride themselves on creating a welcoming, fun yet professional environment. It’s a happy and safe space where swimmers of all ages can flourish.

• Lessons Run 7 Days per Week

• Baby Swim

• Private and Group Lessons

• Fitness Classes (16+)

• SEN and Disability Swimming

• Adult One-to-One Lessons

• Two Teachers per Class in the Pool

Swimming lessons give youngsters the confidence to achieve their goals not only in the water but also in everyday life and Billie’s Fins Swim School already provides this for over 1300+ swimmers each week.

The swim school runs at two locations, their own pool in Pinchbeck which has been purpose built, as well as at Eye C of E Primary school. The water is a comfortable 33 degrees and from baby swim classes from 3+ months through to Level 6, all ages can learn to be at ease in the water, improve or even learn to

compete. Baby swim for 3+ months is available at Pinchbeck and lessons start from 18 months in Eye.

Small class sizes ensure everyone gets the attention they need from expert tutors but they can also offer one-to-one teaching.

Schools, nurseries and groups can rent the pool for swimming lessons; fitness classes and evening lane swimming sessions are also available as well as private hire.

New Hoist Coming Soon

SEN and Disability swimming is fully catered for with qualified teachers, separate changing facilities and now a new hoist will soon be available for swimmers with limited mobility. This great new addition to the facilities marks successful fundraising by swimmers, parents and the Billie’s Fins team who have held a swimathon, bingo evening, flower sales and colouring competitions to raise the money for this project. One extremely generous donation from a parent has helped them to reach their target.

Once they have the date for it to be installed the hoist should be in use within 6 to 8 weeks opening up the benefits of swimming to even more adults and children with limited mobility. As the pool runs at 33° it’s perfect for anyone who is rehabilitating, and for individuals that need a warmer pool.

Summer Offer – Claim 10% discount when booking with 10termtimes code. Terms and conditions apply.

To book please send all enquiries via email to: grouplessons@billiesfins.com or privatelessons@billiesfins.com www.billiesfins.com

Summer Holiday Family Fun

Fun at Flag Fen

Join the Dig!

Ever wanted to know what it’s like to be an archaeologist? Well, check out Flag Fen during the holidays to find out! Cram thousands of years into just one day as you dig through history and piece together stories of the past using the clues you find along the way. Learn about the Bronze Age Must Farm village, discover the log boats and take the quest of the secret symbols. Join the Dig starting from 22 Jul - 30 Aug, open Wed - Sun, 10am - 4pm. Fees apply (Under 5's free).

Forest School

Flag Fen’s Forest School is perfect for mini outdoor adventurers. Each session has a different theme - Woodland Animals, Children’s Stories and Dinosaurs - with varied activities including creative crafts, storytelling and problem solving tasks.

The sessions are on 2, 9 and 16 Aug, 10.30am – 12 noon and cost just £1 per child + general admission fees. Suitable for children aged 5 – 12 (Children must be accompanied by an adult).

Book your space early to avoid disappointment at flagfen.org.uk/events

Events and Exhibitions at Peterborough Museum

Toys & Games

Take a look at some of the best loved toys through the decades in this free interactive exhibition. Showcasing some of the oldest toys and games dating back to the 18th century, right through to modern day, such as LOL dolls, Dungeons and Dragons and fidget toys as well as a selection of Star Wars toys from the 1980's.

Drop in and play at this fun family exhibition, open 24 Jun – 6 Sep, 10am – 4pm, free entry.

Saber Skills – Calling all Star Wars fans!

Master the skills of a Jedi (or Sith) in one of these exciting Saber Skills training workshops using high-quality sabers. You’ll be guided through clear, easy to learn techniques of how to use a saber and perform amazing tricks.

Suitable for adults and children aged 8+. Prices start at £5

To find out more and book visit: peterboroughmuseum.org.uk/events

Peterborough Libraries

Ready, Set, Read!

Race to your local Peterborough Library from 8 July and keep your children reading throughout the holidays by signing up to the free Summer Reading Challenge.

Every child aged 4 – 11 years who signs up will get a collector's card after they finish their first book, and a sticker for each book they read. All those who read six library books and complete the reading challenge will get a free bookmark and a certificate.

Find out more about what’s on at Peterborough Libraries this summer: peterboroughlibraries.org.uk/events or learn more about the Summer Reading Challenge: summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Prizes to win in our First Community Club Awards

Term Times has partnered with Hegarty Solicitors to launch our first Community Club Awards to say thank you, and we want your nominations. There are three cash prizes up for grabs for the organisation they work with which could make a big difference – Gold (£200), Silver (£150) and Bronze (£50).

There are so many sports, leisure, educational clubs and after school groups that are run and supported by dedicated individuals. This is your chance to nominate that special person and win some vital funds to benefit the club, perhaps with much needed new equipment, funding for staff or facilities.

Anyone can submit a nomination, just send us up to 250 words detailing why your nominee should win this prize for their group. It could be a sports

club, crafts group, after school support, or a group that deals with health, language or community. We want to know who you are nominating and why, the organisation and what they do. How have they helped you, what do they do best and how has your particular nominee gone the extra mile? Explain why this club means the world to you, how it benefits the community or what it has achieved. Nominations close on 7 August 2023 and should be sent via email to steven@termtimes.ltd.uk

Terms and Conditions : Winners will be chosen at random, the club must be linked to primary aged school children and entrants must be linked with the club. Winning entrants must agree to have details published in the autumn issue with a photograph and on Hegarty Solicitors’ and Term Times’ social media platforms.

Hegarty Solicitors | Legal support for business, for you, for life.

Our experienced and accomplished team of solicitors and legal advisors can put you, your business and your family in a strong position for the future. Established in 1974, we are a local firm with offices in Peterborough, Stamford, Oakham and Market Deeping and offer a full range of legal services for families and businesses.

We are incredibly proud of the high level of service that we provide our clients. But don’t just take our word for it, our clients have rated us 5* on Trustpilot.

Our lawyers are empathetic and friendly and will take the time to really listen to you and understand your needs. Whether you need help planning for the future, launching a new business, buying your next property or help with family issues, contact us today for legal support and advice you can count on. www.hegarty.co.uk | enquiries@hegarty.co.uk | 01733 346 333

Saturday

Sunday 31 December: £40 per Adult, £20 per Child

We all know that community clubs and teams make a huge difference and there is often someone very special who goes the extra mile to make them work.

Tips for Getting Ready for the

Anna’s Hope 5K Fun Run

It’s not long now until the Anna’s Hope 5k Fun Run takes place at the Great Eastern Run in Peterborough on 15 October and now with sunnier days ahead it’s a great time to start getting the kids race ready.

With some free places still available for children to take part and to join the Anna’s Hope Schools Challenge , it’s time to get the kids training.

Term Times asked Tom Smith, Year 6 form teacher and Head of Co-Curriculum at Copthill School, for some tips on how to get ready.

‘Children from the age of 7 and 8 are ready to start training for a 5k run which is around 3 miles. It can be daunting so I always encourage them to have fun and enjoy the atmosphere on the day, rather than “train to win”!'

In the weeks leading up to the race it's imperative that children are prepared in the right way and Tom suggests easing them in.

‘In week one I would do three 15 minute walks, not one day after the other, gradually increasing the pace as you go. “Talk whilst you walk” is a good way of distracting your child from what they might think is a bit boring, so you could encourage games such as I-Spy.’

Repeat this the next week but increase the time to 15-20 minutes of walking and introduce a run/walk pattern to build up their endurance levels.

Weeks 3-6 should continue to be running/ walking for 20 minutes three times a week to really get their stamina levels up to continually run at a steady pace.

Tom says fuelling up is essential – ‘This means drinking plenty of water on a daily basis and eating the right food. Children burn off calories quickly so a wellbalanced daily intake should suffice.

‘Take on some carbs on race day such as scrambled eggs for breakfast and a banana is a good slow releasing energy source. During the training weeks, pasta is always a good carb and most children love pasta!’

There are still some free places for children under 16 in the Anna’s Hope 5k Fun Run and prizes to be won for schools in the Anna’s Hope Schools Challenge. For more details please contact Carole Hughes via e-mail admin@annashope.co.uk or ring 01780 740 492.

Full details of this year’s route will be revealed soon. For more information or to enter visit www.greateasternrun.co.uk

Food and Fun at Vine House Farm

If you want to get the family out of the house or need somewhere to stop for a break on your travels, Vine House Farm Shop and Café in Deeping St Nicholas is well worth a visit this summer. Set in beautiful countryside, families can explore the large wildlife garden and pond area for free, where they’ll learn about what’s been planted and why. Enjoy a game of hide and seek in the growing willow tunnel and tepee or follow the wildlife trail of facts around the garden. There’s a play area for the children, and the gorgeous wildlife garden is in full bloom and fun to explore.

The enclosed playground has plenty to do for the under eights, situated next to the outdoor decking so you can relax with a cuppa while the kids let off some steam. The family dog is also welcome and well catered for with refreshments for dogs available on the deck too, and their staff love handing out free dog treats!

The café has tasty menus for breakfast and lunch, or try some homemade cake with a coffee. There is seating for 80 inside with a further 60 on the decking. Enjoy a refreshing milkshake or ice-cream or choose from their wide food menu offering delicious homemade dishes. You can also pick up some fresh, locally grown produce from their Farm Shop and see the in-store butchery run by Grasmere Farm.

To find out more call 01775 630 244 or visit

Café Opening Hours

Monday–Saturday: 8.30am–4.30pm

Sunday: 9am–3.30pm

Vine House Farm Café and Farm Shop, Deeping St Nicholas, Spalding, PE11 3DG

Don’t miss out for Summer, book today!

The kids have got their bucket and spade and their sandals on, you’ve packed your flask and the dog’s looking at you impatiently. Finally, you’re all set for a day out at the beach when you discover one member of your party is excluded from enjoying the delights of the seaside – no dogs allowed! Thankfully Norfolk, Suffolk and Lincolnshire all have a great selection of dog friendly beaches…

Best Dog Friendly Beaches

Humberston Fitties Beach, Lincolnshire

An area of Cleethorpes on the Lincolnshire coast, the Humberston Fitties beach is a delightful unspoilt stretch of coastline that links to the main Cleethorpes beach. Popular with dog walkers all year round, the facilities of Cleethorpes are within walking distance and make for a perfect day out. This stretch of the beach also has an appealing mixture of flora and fauna and a conservation area.

Walberswick, Suffolk

Just a stone’s throw from popular Southwold, this slightly less well known, picturesque beach, has been delighting families for generations. Just a stroll through the sand

dunes and a marvellous slice of the Suffolk coast is revealed. Walberswick provides the perfect balance of nearby facilities including parking and an ice cream outlet, without compromising on the quiet beauty. As testimony to fewer visitors, there is also a nature reserve. Dogs are permitted throughout the year and watersports enthusiasts are commonly seen.

Happisburgh, Norfolk

Happisburgh is guaranteed to offer a great day out for both the kids and dogs. Nearby to Hunstanton, it’s one of a few nearby beaches that offer a quiet slice of solitude whilst also being near mainstream facilities. Offering a dogfriendly sandy beach, if you really wanted to tire

By Mica Bale

out little legs – whether those be human or canine – you can walk for miles and spot the iconic lighthouse on the horizon.

Wells-Next-The-Sea, Norfolk Wells is a very dog friendly location and the beach is part of the Holkham Estate. Offering a diverse and ever-changing landscape, WellsNext-the-Sea may well just offer the whole package – complete with an active fishing community, frequent sightings of wildlife, white sandy beaches and dogs allowed on certain zones during different times of year owing to the fauna that calls the beach home. There is even a café nearby, welcoming guests and their dogs.

Learn Perfect Pet Care with Woodgreen this Summer

Children with a love for animals can learn more about caring for pets this summer with experts from Woodgreen Pets Charity.

They are running a series of interactive workshops teaching children about the needs of rabbits, cats, and dogs, building a sense of responsibility and empathy in a fun and educational way.

Dog Champions Workshop

Ideal for children aged 7 to 11, this session offers a range of activities from making feeding time enjoyable to trying out dog training. Whether you own a dog or not, everyone is welcome along to learn more about our furry friends.

• 25 July: Joan Strong Centre, Oundle

• 2 August: Ely Library

• 18 August: Huntingdon Library

• 29 August: Broad Leas, St Ives

Rabbit Champions Workshop

The workshop provides a unique opportunity for children aged 5 to 11 to learn essential health-checking techniques and discover how to make feeding time fun. Whether you own a rabbit or are simply fascinated by these adorable creatures, don't miss out on this wonderful experience.

• 24 July: Joan Strong Centre, Oundle

• 1 August: Broad Leas, St Ives

• 14 August: Huntingdon Library

Cat Champions Workshop

This all-new workshop will show you how to make feeding time fun and help you discover the secrets of cat behaviour.

Whether you have a cat at home or just adore these graceful creatures, all families are welcome.

• 31 August: Huntingdon Library

To secure your spot on one of these fun workshops, head to www.woodgreen.org.uk/ events, where tickets start from just £5 for the whole family. You’ll receive a certificate for each child, as well as a special goody bag. Use the code TERMTIMES when booking on Eventbrite for an exclusive 20% off.

For families that can’t attend the in-person workshops, Woodgreen offers free online courses, so you can learn more about pets from the comfort of your own home. Find out more at www.woodgreen.org.uk/courses

Woodgreen also provides free curriculum-linked sessions for schools and groups within Cambridgeshire. To book a session, or to enquire about a bespoke workshop or project, contact the team at community@woodgreen.org.uk

Woodgreen is a charity that’s dedicated to helping pets and their people, rehabilitating and rehoming thousands of dogs, cats and small animals each year whilst offering hands-on support to pets in homes.

Summer at Nene Park

It’s time to get outdoors and there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Nene Park in Peterborough this summer.

GET 10% OFF

a summer Kayak hire by using the code termtimes23 when booking. See the advert on page 8 for more details.

Book your places online for the exciting calendar of events running throughout the six weeks of the school holidays, but don’t wait as they book up fast! At the Nene Outdoors Watersports & Activity Centre you can make a splash with their full range of Pay and Play activities on Gunwade Lake, available between 11am and 6.30pm each day. Daily watersports activities include dragon and swan pedalos, row boats, stand up paddle boards, kayaks and canoes, dinghies and windsurfing. Open Water Swimming sessions are held every Thursday evening and you’ll also find climbing wall and archery sessions on selected dates throughout the summer. Why not try a tranquil trip around Overton Lake and along the River Nene on Nene Park’s electric

passenger boat? Available at weekends and daily during the school holidays, the 45-minute prebookable trips depart from the Visitor Centre jetty starting at 10am. Suitable for all ages, it’s £9 per person and free for under 3s. You could even turn your day out at Ferry Meadows into an overnight adventure by camping out in one of their bell tents to hire on Lakeview Campsite or make a pitch-only booking on The Glade. Both campsites have access to a number of facilities and are close to all the exciting activities on offer at Nene Outdoors. Don’t forget to pop into the Visitor Centre in Ferry Meadows for everything you need to enjoy a day in the Park this summer! Browse the Farm

To find out more about all the summer activities visit www.nenepark.org.uk

Shop shelves for delicious picnic items, BBQ essentials, refreshing drinks and snacks sourced from the finest local suppliers. In the gift section you’ll find toys, games and accessories to keep all the family entertained. The friendly Visitor Centre team are there to help plan your day, share a map or answer any questions. Don’t forget the everpopular duck food!

Ferry Meadows is also home to three great play areas, each catering for different ages and abilities. Fox Play at Lakeside is the largest, featuring zip wires, towers, tunnels, water fountains and more. There’s so much more to explore on foot or cycle so grab a map at the Visitor Centre to make sure you enjoy all that Nene Park has to offer.

It’s a long time between school terms and in September a common thought is ‘Will they remember everything?’ The change of routine and less time spent on educational activities can lead to ‘summer learning loss’ – the loss of academic skills and knowledge that can occur over the long summer break.

Try These Top Tips to Help your Child at Home…

 Read aloud to them - this helps children develop their language skills and vocabulary. It also exposes them to new information, ideas and vocabulary.

 Take them to the library or bookshop. Let them choose books that interest them to keep them engaged and motivated to read.

 Encourage them to play educational games. There are many that can help children learn about maths, science, and other subjects.

 Take them on educational outings. Visit museums, zoos, and other places that offer educational opportunities and talk about what is happening around you.

 Set aside time for your child to practice their academic skills.

Summer School Support

Our summer school will be open throughout August and can help prevent a big ‘summer slide’ so they are ready for school in September. It’s a chance for students to gain confidence, consolidate learning and prepare for the next school year. A calm environment and a pace adapted to suit each learner, helps students build upon existing knowledge and promotes a healthy and positive attitude to learning. All our tutors are fully qualified teachers and are trained to adapt lessons to suit individual needs. Book a free assessment to find out how we can help your child have a fun and productive summer.

Getting Prepared for the 11+

Summer is the perfect time to really focus on preparing for 11+ entrance exams. Our experienced tutors can talk students through the different question styles and ensure they have the different methods and strategies to approach them with confidence. Students can also partake in ‘mock exams’ to ensure they are prepared for the real thing!

What can Kip McGrath

Peterborough Help With?

 Preparation for the 11+ exam and beyond  To fill in any gaps they may have in their learning so far.

 Support children to achieve the grades required for the next steps.

 A slower pace of learning to support deeper understanding.

 Boost confidence and support their catch up.

For more information or to book a session call 01733 425 186 or visit www.kipmcgrath.co.uk

The summer holidays are filled with many things: less structure, time to wind down, childcare to manage, time together and memories made - all of which we juggle alongside normal responsibilities and the extra play dates!

THREE COPIES UP FOR GRABS!

Publisher: Puffin

Authors: Sam Copeland and Jenny Pearson

Illustrators: Robin Boyden and Katie Kear

RRP: £7.99

Age: 7yrs+

Kids will love The Underpants of Chaos, the first in the hilarious middle grade series, Tuchus & Topps Investigate, and we have three copies to give away.

The story features detective duo Agatha and Lenny, who unwillingly team up to investigate the strange happenings at their school. What are the peculiar SHIVERS that keep striking the school, bringing Strangeness in their wake - from uncontrollable ballroom dancing to an attack by military chickens?

Spy-detective Agatha Topps is determined to find out. She's the only person who doesn't forget the Strangeness as soon as it's over. At least, until new boy Lenny Tuchus turns up and remembers too. Can they fight off attacks from evil underpants and Transylvanian gargoyles to stop the SHIVERS before their town is sucked into oblivion?

If you enjoy this one, look out for Tuchus & Topps Investigate: The Attack of the Robot Librarians, out now. Who put laser-eyed robot librarians in charge of class discipline? What's with the new pedalpowered desks? And what does it all have to do with the mysterious goings-on in the cellar? It’s a new term and Agatha and Lenny are back on the case.

Publisher: Usborne

Author: A. M. Howell

RRP: £7.99

Age: 9–12yrs

Set sail for the adventure of the summer with this major new series from award-winning author A. M. Howell.

Mysteries at Sea: Peril on the Atlantic is the first book in a gripping series unravelling mysteries aboard ships crossing the globe in the 1930’s, featuring real ships, historical figures and events brought to you by the award-winning author of The Garden of Lost Secrets.

July, 1936. As the Queen Mary sets sail across the Atlantic, Alice can't wait for the summer of adventure that lies ahead. She's excited to explore the huge ship, with its shops, animals and even celebrities on board.

As Alice's sailor father focuses on winning a prestigious race, she witnesses a shocking attack. Alice and her new friend Sonny start to uncover a dark sabotage plot, and as they investigate gold bars, anonymous notes and lost silk gloves, secrets in their own lives come to the surface. While fog threatens the boat's journey, and dangerous enemies show themselves, Alice and Sonny are in their own race to solve all the mysteries unfolding. But what they discover might change both their lives forever...

Two further titles will follow in April and August 2024.

Laserforce Summer Holiday Games Sessions

Computer and console games are fun but don’t just play the game, why not become part of it with Laserforce live action laser games?

This Peterborough venue is a place where fantasy meets reality and players can be the action heroes they’ve always wanted to be, but in a safe environment. During the summer holidays, as well as offering games and group bookings, Laserforce is also running its very popular afternoon games sessions, £18 for 3 hours of different mission types, but spaces are limited, so booking is essential.

Happy Birthday!

Summer Theatre School

If your child loves being in the spotlight the Cresset Arts & Theatre School (CATS) in Peterborough is back for the holidays with their popular Summer School.

This is the perfect opportunity for young performers to participate in workshops delivered by creative professionals in acting, singing and dance. The week culminates in a live stage performance on the Friday to showcase what they’ve learned.

The Summer School at The Cresset in Bretton runs from 7–11 August 2023 from 9am to 4pm for children aged 7–16yrs.

The price per child for the week is £135 and entries are now open at www.cresset.co.uk/performing-arts/summer-school-2023/

Here are the winners of Term Times’ competitions’