Termtimes Issue 124 January - March

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TI INSI TIONS DE!

the magazine for families

Issue 124 January - March 2017

GREAT Birthday Parties

Explore Cambridge museums after dark

Peterborough Presents

Community Art Meet the

LOVE PETERBOROUGH, LOVE YOUR COMMUNITY RECYCLING REWARD SCHEME

WIN a Party at Sacrewell

Super Spa ce Puzzles

Yummy Salmon Fish Cakes

Online Safety Advice

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Children's Martial Arts T PEC ER POW

RES

E ETT IP U Q H ETI RIENDS F

EDGE TION KNOWL OTIVA Y IT M CE HUMIL DEFEN ANSHIP M TEGRITY S T SELFR SPEED IN SPO E C S N E R L E L E MANN LINE EXC IP DISCIP H S R DEDICATION E D A E L SY PERSEVERANCE TE UR CO K OR W CONFIDENCE TEAM

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Welcome ... ...to our February half-term edition of Term Times magazine.

With 2017 now well underway, it promises to be a busy one in our house. The children are careering to the end of Key Stages 1 and 2, prompting me to reflect on the amazing opportunities they have enjoyed as a part of their school lives.

One of the trips they both enjoyed was to Sacrewell; going with their friends on a coach was a fabulous adventure during foundation stage.

This issue we've teamed up with Sacrewell to offer a fantastic competition to win a birthday party at the centre.

The prize is part of our children's birthday party feature, looking at some of the great experiences offered locally.

Also this issue, we are delighted to be able to offer our own educational experience, with one lucky class winning a trip to the fascinating Stories of Lynn exhibition, in King's Lynn.

In addition we have a lip-smackingly good fish cake recipe from the chefs at Loch Fyne, plus the chance to win a £50 voucher to spend at the Elton restaurant and a free child's meal for everyone who enters.

There's also plenty of interesting stories, news and our fun puzzle page.

Have a fabulous half term and we will see you again in the season of the Easter Rabbit and chocolate eggs.

Amanda

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Contents

Regulars

Have you a business aimed at youngsters and their parents?

Term Times reaches over 49,000 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.

6 9 22 22

Loch Fyne £50 voucher Birthday party at Sacrewell A class trip to Stories of Lynn Puffin books for your school

6 8–10 & 12 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 23

Healthy fish cake recipe Great birthday parties Twilight at the Museums Work-life balance with Mana Education Love Peterborough, Love Your Community Peterborough Children's University Boys and books Online safety advice Stories of Lynn exhibition Peterborough Presents art projects

Editorial

Competition Entry 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 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.

layout & editing DESIGN FOR LIFE Design,

Dimension

News Puzzles

Competitions

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

T: 01733 772095 www.dimension6000.com

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70 Rutland Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1UW

Publisher: Steven Beacham | Editor: Amanda Stacey T: 01780 757731 E: steven@termtimes.ltd.uk www.termtimes.ltd.uk

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/advertisiers 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/advertiser. 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 sometimes 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.

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NEWS

Lincolnshire primary schools top of the class

CALA Homes promotes a safer school run Housebuilder CALA Homes has donated a 'Be Safe Be Seen' pack to Peterborough's Hampton Send us your school news Hargate Primary School to raise Term Times is always looking for awareness of road safety. stories about the great things that The pack includes 30 high are happening in our local primary visibility vests for school outings schools - and the teachers and pupils and clip on reflective badges for all who are making them happen. pupils to help them be seen on the If you have news about your journey to and from school. school send it to Deputy Headteacher Sarah steven@termtimes.ltd.uk and, if Moss says: 'Road safety is always possible, include a high resolution a priority for us and we would like photo...then we can show AND tell. to thank CALA Homes for the kind donation.

'The vests will be really useful when taking classes on educational visits and the badges went down brilliantly with all the children.

'The donation will help our pupils to be much more visible over the winter months, which gives parents and teachers peace of mind.'

CALA Homes is currently building The Mallards, a selection Above: Deputy headteacher Sarah of two, three, four and five Moss and children from Hampton Hargate Primary School show off their bedroom homes in the Hampton Vale area of the city. reflectors donated by CALA Homes www.cala.co.uk

Making a song and dance Budding young West End stars can take their first steps towards the spotlight at Little Voices musical theatre classes.

Drama and singing lessons, for four to 18 year olds, are held after school during term times at Ormiston Bushfield Academy, in Ortongate, and venues in Stanground, Werrington and Stamford.

Working in small groups of no more than eight children means every child receives one-to-one tuition.

Pupils perform scenes from musical theatre, such as The Wizard of Oz, Annie, Oliver, Shrek, The Lion King, Mamma Mia! and Chicago, and work towards LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) qualifications.

For more information contact Little Voices Principal Julie Armstrong on 07801 953643. www.littlevoices.org.uk

NEW ARK PLAY A A A A A A A

After-school Club School Holiday Club Parent & toddler group Nature & nurture learning cafes Play Support service for Schools City Farm offering; Group visits and birthday parties Playgroup in the Adventure Playground & Eco Garden

For more information contact us...

Tel. 01733 340 605 New Ark Website: www.newarkplay.co.uk Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/newarkplay Newark Play Association - Registered Charity: 1026751 Hill Close, Reeves Way, Peterborough, PE1 5LZ

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Lincolnshire is the top performing authority in the East Midlands, with 93 percent of primary schools judged good or better according to the Ofsted Annual Report 2015/16.

The report reveals 87 percent of children in the region attend good or outstanding schools. However this is still three percent below the national average.

The proportion of primary-aged children who attended a good school has improved 'markedly' in every East Midlands' authority since 2012, except Rutland which went down 12 percent.

The East Midlands was the second poorest performing region for phonics nationally with only two local authorities, Lincolnshire 83 percent and Rutland 86 percent, performing better.

By the end of Key Stage 1, only pupils in Rutland and Derbyshire are doing as well as their peers nationally in reading, writing and mathematics.

And this year’s Key Stage 2 provisional results show 50 percent of pupils in the region reached the new expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics - two percentage points lower than the national state-funded schools figure. The highest performing authority was Rutland (53 percent).

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5

fabulous

salmon fishcakes

Fish cakes are a firm favourite with children and grownups alike and make a simple, tasty and satisfying meal.

The chefs at Loch Fyne Seafood & Grill restaurant, in Elton, kindly offered to share their recipe for this great winter warmer with Term Times readers.

Simply serve the fishcakes with roasted vegetables or a healthy salad for a nutritious family meal.

To make four fishcakes you’ll need: 12.5g salted butter 100g smoked salmon 150g fresh, skinned, salmon fillet 5g garlic 50g onions 50g leeks Method

50g celery 5g dill 250g mashed potato 1 egg 40g plain flour 90g breadcrumbs

Image: Shutterstock The Loch Fyne restaurant in Elton, just a 10-minute drive from Peterborough, is set in a converted dairy and the à la carte and set menus feature fresh, seasonal dishes. The restaurant is open 11am to 10pm on Monday to Thursday, 11am to 10.30pm on Friday, 9am to 10.30pm on Saturday and 9am to 10pm on Sunday.

Preparation and cooking time 1 hour and 30 minutes

1. Make the mashed potato, but don’t add any butter or milk otherwise the fishcakes will be too mushy.

2. Place the fresh and smoked salmon in an oven-proof bowl or deep tray and add water to cover the fish. Cover the container with tin foil. Steam the fish for 8 minutes in the oven at 180 degrees.

3. Dice the onions, garlic, celery and leeks.

WIN

WIN A VOUCHER

4. Heat the butter in a pan and sauté the vegetables for 5 to 8 minutes.

5. Remove from the heat, transfer to a bowl, add the mashed potato and stir until mixed well.

6. Chop the dill and break the salmon into bite-sized pieces and then mix with the mashed potato and vegetables.

7. Divide the mixture in four and shape into patties.

8. Whisk the egg in a bowl, put the flour in another bowl and the breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

9. Take each patty and coat in flour, shaking off the excess, then dip in the egg and finally the breadcrumbs.

10. Bake in the oven at 170-180 degrees for 20 minutes or until completely cooked through.

We’ve teamed up with our friends at Loch Fyne to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a £50 voucher to spend at the Elton restaurant. Every family that enters the competition will receive one voucher for a free child’s meal.

To enter simply answer this question: How much smoked salmon do you need to make the Loch Fyne fishcakes?

To enter follow the instructions on page 3. Closing date 5 March.

www.lochfyneseafoodandgrill.co.uk/locations/elton

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

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7

The Term Times team loves a great birthday bash ...and children's parties are our favourite. Here we've gathered together some of the most popular and newest kids' birthday party ideas from around our readership area.

Action-packed parties from One Leisure A whole host of new and unusual actionpacked children's party packages are on offer at One Leisure centres in St Ives, Huntingdon, St Neots, Ramsey and Sawtry.

For footy enthusiasts, a Bubble Football or Goggle Football party gives the beautiful game a fun twist.

In Bubble Football each team member is strapped into a soft, transparent plastic ball, resulting in much hilarity as players, bounce, bump and roll around to score goals.

Bubble Football costs £159 for 55 minutes and is for up to 15 children aged between six and 15.

Goggle Football players wear Xtreme visual impairment goggles which make the ball look either much closer or much further away than it actually is. This results in ridiculous fresh air kicks and missed headers...to the bemusement of players.

For up to 15 children over eight years old, Goggle Football costs £99 for 55 minutes.

Perfect for primary-aged children, the Old School Sports Day is a great idea for youngsters aged four and over. As you would imagine, it features fun and competitive sports day classics such as the egg and spoon and sack races. The party costs £99 for 55 minutes and is for up to 25 youngsters.

Battle Zone Archery is the ideal option for Green Arrow superhero fans or Katniss Everdeen wannabes. The latest high-octane combat activity craze, it combines paintball and dodgeball and players must avoid being hit by competitors' soft-impact arrows.

Suitable for up to 20 children over 11 years of age, it costs £159 for 55 minutes.

All parties detailed are hosted by a fullyaccredited Xtreme Active co-ordinator.

At St Ives, Huntingdon and St Neots an additional £3.95 per child gets you a variety of food and drink options, room hire for up to 45 minutes, tableware and a party hat, balloon, blower and ice cream for each child.

For more information about these, and all the other exciting party packages available, visit www.oneleisure.net

No ordinary bus!

For children from toddlers up to 10 yrs

• ball pit • slide • Wii dance and games • music • climbing wall • swing-ball ‘Yummy • delicious candy floss yummy!’

• and popcorn machines • prices from £145.00 for a 2 hour party

NOW AVAILABLE!

NEW

CALL 01733 229 006

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 Wide selection of coaches and buses available for hire (from 12 to 70 seats with seatbelts). Disabled access coach with a lift available.

01733 242 034 (Peterborough based) info@deckerbus.co.uk www.deckerbus.co.uk 8

Pa arrt rty y BOOK YOUR

at Sacrewell

COMING IN 2017 NEW OUTDOOR PARTY PACKAGE

• Playbarn parties from £13.50 (including party food and admission to Sacrewell for the whole day) • Exclusive Playbarn hire available from £175 • Additional party function room also available for hourly hire For more information and booking details visit

www.sacrewell.org.uk

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Fun on the farm at Sacrewell

Animal Magic at the Exotic Pet Refuge Young animal lovers will be delighted with the children's party package at The Exotic Pet Refuge, a registered charity in Deeping St James and home to more than 300 animals.

Comprising an exclusive guided tour and private use of the Everest function room, you can also add extras including animal handling, food and photographs of the party-goers with the refuge residents.

The package costs from £6 per child and more information is available at www.exoticpetrefuge.org.uk

The Sacrewell party package includes the chance to meet lots of animals, yummy food and enjoy soft play fun with friends.

Available at specified times during the weekend and school holidays, the party features two hours in the soft play Playbarn Party Paddock, admission to Sacrewell for the day, party food and drinks, a present for the birthday boy or girl and a voucher for a free return visit to the Thornhaugh attraction for each partygoer.

There's also two free adult admissions per child, including the birthday boy or girl, and discounted entry for grandparents.

A number of optional extras are available including party bags, farmthemed tableware and menu upgrade.

Exclusive hire of the playbarn for parties - which does not include access to the farm - is also available from £175.

The package costs £13.50 per child for a minimum of 10. Annual members pay £12.50 per child.

More information is available at www.sacrewell.org.uk

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WIN a party at Sacrewell We've teamed up with Sacrewell to offer one lucky young reader the chance to win a fantastic birthday party.

The winner can invite up to nine guests, additional guests can be added for £13.50 each, who will enjoy two hours in the Playbarn Party Paddock, food and drink and admission for the full day.

Sacrewell is also including party tableware and gift bags.

The prize is valid for 12 months and subject to availability and Sacrewell's terms and conditions.

To enter simply answer this question: What is the theme of the optional extra party tableware for children's parties at Sacrewell?

To enter follow the instructions on page 3. Closing date 3 March .

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Great party packages for all ages at Fun Farm Fun Farm in Weston, Spalding, is an indoor play centre with three storeys of action-packed padded play featuring slides, deck climbs, roller squeezes, ball pools, and more.

Two-hour themed party packages are available covering all ages from Frozen and Peppa Pig to Spiderman, Star Wars and Minecraft.

The Classic package includes an hour-and-a-half of soft play, 'Vortex' experience for the birthday boy or girl, hot or cold meal in a themed party hut, unlimited squash and balloon for each guest. The party costs £9.50 per child off peak and £10.50 at peak times.

The Luxury party is the same as the Classic package but with the addition of a dessert and party bag for each guest and themed tableware. It is priced at £11.99 per child off peak times and £12.99 at peak times.

The VIP party features all the Classic benefits plus the opportunity for each child to make their own ice cream sundae, themed tableware, a present and foiled helium balloon and free play voucher for the birthday child and a luxury party bag for each guest.

This package costs £13.99 off peak and £14.99 at peak times.

All three parties are for a minimum of eight children.

For younger children, the Toddler party, available for a minimum of six little ones up to four years old during school term time, is the same as the Classic package minus the 'Vortex' experience and costs £7.99 per child.

There is also the option of an adrenaline-fuelled Laser Storm party, where laser gun-wielding players use stealth and tactics to target opposing players in a purpose-built arena. A soft play session and food in the Americanthemed diner are included, with prices starting from £11.99 per child.

For more information visit www.funfarm.co.uk/funfarmspalding/

Action, adventure and fun...

Vivacity's perfect parties With so many exciting Vivacity party packages on offer, choosing one to suit you couldn’t be easier.

Adventure Hunter Parties held at Peterborough Museum, in Priestgate, and Flag Fen, on Northey Road, offer a choice of fun themed birthday parties for dinosaur devotees to history buffs.

Peterborough Museum hosts Knights and Princesses, Under the Sea Adventures and Dino Disco parties. While, during open season, Flag Fen lays on Time Travellers, Nature Detectives and Pirates.

All two-hour parties come with a host to lead the craft activities and games plus catering and party bags can be arranged.

Parties are available on Saturdays and Sundays - excluding special event days - at 11am or 2pm.

Packages cost £150 for 20 children, additional party-goers £2.50 each.

Vivacity's six sports centres also host a range of parties perfect for all ages.

The one-hour Multi-Sport party at Hampton Leisure Centre is great for active kids. The team offers a wide choice of sports-based games and activities including football, basketball, dodgeball, dance, tennis, handball and cricket.

The party is for up to 30 children aged between three and 15 and costs £95.

Inflatable fun is also offered at Hampton, with three different bouncy castles and inflatable obstacle courses available separately or together. Prices start from £130.

Water babies can dive into a Pool Party at Jack Hunt Pool and Gym, in Netherton, where partygoers can enjoy exclusive use of the pool with, or without, a huge inflatable obstacle course for an hour.

The £100 exclusive pool hire cost, or £125 with the inflatable course, is for up to 35 children. Children under five must be accompanied by an adult, with one adult for two children between five and eight.

For a wheely good celebration, a Roller Party held in the sports halls at Werrington and Bushfield leisure centres caters for up to 40 skaters and includes the latest tunes on the sound system.

You can bring your own skates or they can be provided free of charge, subject to size availability, and the party costs from £75.

All parties detailed include exclusive use of a party room.

More information is available at www.vivacity-peterborough.com/parties

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Throwing a joint birthday party Joint birthday parties are a great way to ease the workload and save money at the same time.

These tandem-style celebrations, for children whose birthdays are near each other, can cut costs and effort if you divide the tasks between families.

But remember you won't have sole control, so be prepared to compromise.

Discuss the party details, such as venue, theme etc, with the other parents and, importantly, agree on the budget.

Joint invitations are the easiest way forward as there should be lots of invitees in common.

There will also be some individual to each child, such as family and non-school friends, so try to make the numbers of these 'extra' guests even for fairness.

Handling present-giving is another decision which needs to be agreed between families.

Should guests bring a present for each child, or just one? And if for each, then not if they don't know the other child?

At the party do have a separate cake for both birthday children and remember to sing Happy Birthday for each.

The real cost of birthday parties Hiring an entertainer, ordering a birthday cake and providing expensive party bags now seems to be the norm at most children's parties.

So it's no surprise that a recent survey revealed the average cost of a primary schoolaged child's birthday party is a whopping £320.50 - with a further £175.80 spent by parents on presents.

The costliest item is entertainment, gobbling up 21 percent of the budget, followed closely by 19 percent on catering, 16 percent for decorations, 14 percent for party bags and nine percent on venue hire.

Despite the significant outlay, most of the 2,000 British parents of four to 10-year-olds questioned by vouchercloud.com agreed it is worth the money.

In fact two thirds said they throw parties like this for their children every single year.

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11

Great value parties at 1Life For a great selection of sporty children's parties head to local 1Life venues Grantham Meres Leisure Centre, Bourne Leisure Centre, Deepings Leisure Centre and Stamford Leisure Pool.

Dive in to watery fun with an hour's Inflatable or Splash Party at Grantham Meres and Deepings - perfect for large groups.

An Inflatable Party, for up to 45 competent swimmers over eight, sees partygoers challenged to take on the Juggernaut.

While the Splash Party, suitable for all ages, features organised activities and games and an optional water slide.

Prices start at £120 for the Inflatable Party and £80 for the Splash.

A Swimming Party at Stamford includes an hour in the pool with balls, floats, flume and ever-popular wave machine and is suitable for up to 40 partygoers of any age, although swimmers under eight must be accompanied by an adult.

The £150 price includes 45 minutes in the terrace area for parents to lay on food and drink. Hour-long Football and Multi-Sports

No present parties

parties, for over fives, are always popular options - and prices start from £65 for 10 children.

At Deepings and Grantham Meres a hosted Football Party includes skill drills, a minimatch and finishes with a penalty shootout.

A hosted Multi-Sports Party at Deepings features a variety of activities including football, relay races, tag and rounders. While there's a choice of fun sporting sessions, such as a Racket Party including table tennis and badminton or Ball Party with basketball/ netball and football, staged at Grantham Meres.

A Five-a-Side Football Party is also available at Bourne for £75 for up to 20 children.

Youngsters aged over eight and with a head for heights will relish a two-hour Climbing Wall Party at Grantham Meres, supervised by a qualified coach, and costing £78.50 for up to 10 children. Parties at Grantham Meres and Bourne are also available with a food option.

For more information visit www.1life.co.uk/parties/

There's a new children's birthday trend hitting our shores from across the Atlantic.

The 'no gifts allowed' party, which started in the US, is now proving increasingly popular with parents in the UK. Such parents believe a party is about creating special memories with family and friends, not gathering a glut of gifts which can often be consigned to a cupboard.

However, experts recommend that a no present party is only suitable for very young or older children who understand the philosophy.

If a present-free party is too difficult a concept to contemplate, then you could ask partygoers to pitch in for one 'bigger' item or, if your child enjoys gardening for example, ask for seeds or plants to start a flower or vegetable patch.

Alternatively, boost your child's bookshelves by inviting guests to buy their favourite book for the party boy or girl.

Creative cookery at Fenbake

All aboard the Pamperbus

Young cookery fans will love a Youbake Party where a minimum of eight children create up to three tasty goodies in the purpose-built kitchen at Fenbake in Moulton Chapel, Spalding.

Choices include bread-based products, biscuits and small cakes.

Invitations, all equipment and ingredients are provided, partygoers just need to bring a container to take their goodies home.

A recipe booklet with all the party bakes is provided as a memento of the two-hour party which costs £12.50 per child.

Visit www.fenbake.com for more information.

The Pamperbus is the latest addition to Playbus' exciting stable of party buses. The double-decker features a food and drinks lounge, dance floor with karaoke, loungers with heated massagers, nail bar, make-up area, photo booth with props and movie lounge.

Included in the price, which starts at £225 for 10 guests for two hours, are nail polishes, make up, face masks, hand and face creams, perfumes, glitter tattoos, disposable slippers and unlimited squash.

The Pamperbus is hired as DIY, but you can bring in your own beauty professionals or they can be provided for an additional charge.

The Pamperbus can be parked outside your home or a suitable venue of choice and parties are recommended for children over seven.

Visit www.play-bus.co.uk for more information.

*Party prices were correct at the time of going to press.

Let’s get baking at a • Two hours of baking fun in our purpose-built kitchen • Select your own favourite bakes to make with your friends • Everything provided; invitations, equipment and ingredients • Recipe booklet and all the party bakes to take home at the end • Minimum of 8 children • £12.50 per child 07530 529723 rudd951@btinternet.com www.fenbake.com 12

Party

Exotic Pet Refuge

OPEN DAYS

16 Apr  21 May  18 June  16 July Visit our refuge of exotic animals and native wildlife. Enjoy our collection of over 300 animals and help us to continue our work.

Children’s entertainment and refreshments available. Open days run from 10am to 5pm.

Entry: Adults £6, Children £3

01778 345 923

exoticpetrefuge@aol.com www.exoticpetrefuge.org.uk

GREAT FAMILY DAY OUT SCHOOL VISITS AND BIRTHDAY PARTIES AVAILABLE

102 Station Rd., Deeping St James, Peterborough PE6 8RH www.termtimes.ltd.uk

Fun, games and unforgettable parties!

Make the special day a perfect one with 1Life Party Packages.

Great value parties for groups of 10 or more children aged between 3 to14 at Grantham, Bourne, Deeping and Stamford.

Let 1Life take away the hassle of organising your child’s party.

Activities, party bags and invitations are all included.

Some centres can also include party food after the session.

Pool Parties (all centres)

Football Parties (Grantham, Bourne, Deeping)

Splash in the pool with structured activities and games.

Pool inflatable parties are available at Grantham Meres and Deeping Leisure Centre. The pool could be filled with inflatables, balls, woggles and floats. 1Life centres with slides and/or wave machines may include these as part of their party packages.

The 1Life party host will lead the party group through drills, skills and games, creating a professional, enthusiastic, competitive and atmospheric environment. These sessions usually last for an hour and are for children 5 and above, typically ending with a mini football match and a penalty shoot-out.

Multi-sport Parties (Grantham & Deeping) An action-packed session with that slight competitive edge. Filled with a variety of sports sure to provide fun.

Expect a fantastic, fun environment.

Sports can include football, basketball, short tennis, badminton and table tennis.

Bouncy Castle Parties (Grantham)

Climbing Wall Parties (Grantham)

Contact your local leisure centre team about your individual party requirements and to find out more about what’s on offer.

Widely available throughout the week, birthday parties at the climbing wall are fun and a challenge for children aged 8 and above. Up to two hours activity time.

A fun-packed hour of bouncy fun with one of our party hosts! This session will often include two types of bouncy castle and a matted area for soft play.

Visit www.1life.co.uk/parties

Bourne Leisure Centre, Queens Road, Bourne PE10 9DX

Grantham Meres Leisure Centre, Trent Road, Grantham NG31 7XQ

Stamford Leisure Centre, Drift Road, Stamford PE9 1UZ

Deepings Leisure Centre, Park Road, Deeping St James, Peterborough PE6 8NF

Tel: 01778 421435

Tel: 01476 581930

Tel: 01780 765522

Tel: 01778 344072

Email: Bourne@1Life.co.uk

Email: Grantham@1Life.co.uk

Email: Stamford@1Life.co.uk

Email: Deepings@1Life.co.uk

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13

puzzles

r out Have fun with ou les. of this world puzz

ferences between

dif Can you spot the 6

the two pictures?

Christmas issue puzzle answers

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Boys Gymnastics

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

www.fenlandfirstaid.co.uk 14

26 Maxwell Road, Woodston, Peterborough PE2 7JN

Defibrillator training available

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

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Explore

Cambridge museums and collections after hours

C

ambridge’s popular evening of museum exploration - Twilight at the Museums - returns this February half term for more torch-led adventure and discovery.

Between 4.30pm and 7.30pm on Wednesday 15 February families can call in at a huge array of free activities and themed trails in and around the city.

With 13 museums and collections to choose from, plus outdoor entertainment and pop-up food stalls,

visitors will have everything they need for a fun and inspiring evening exploring Cambridge’s collections from across the globe.

This year’s events offer families a host of opportunities to venture to venues within easy reach of each other and with unique collections, low lighting and a few surprises along the way, a night of enjoyment and wonder can be found around every corner.

Take a trip to the Museum of Classical Archaeology to uncover

The Secrets of the Statues and stroll down the road to the University Library to become Explorers of the Curious, tasked with finding mysterious objects hiding in the dark and discovering the magical stories behind them.

In Downing Street join the MAA versus the Wild at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology and hunt for objects of unbelievable shapes and sizes at the Whipple Museum of the History of Science.

The Fitzwilliam Museum is joining forces with Kettle’s Yard to create a treasure box of Twilight delights, including live art with light, pop-up creativity and special performances in the galleries.

And for those in need of some tropical warmth, wander along to the Botanic Garden’s dramatically-lit glasshouses, where visitors can make their own mandala to take home.

For more information about the Twilight at the Museums events visit www.museums.cam.ac.uk/twilight www.facebook.com/cambridgeuniversitymuseums and www.twitter.com/camunivmuseums

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Finding the perfect work-life balance with Mana Education Juggling work and a new baby can be tricky, but Laura Wilkinson found the perfect balance when she signed up as a supply teacher with education recruitment specialists Mana Education.

L

aura is currently covering for a teacher on maternity leave at Burrowmoor Primary School, in March, where Term Times caught up with her for a quick chat.

Who, or what, inspired you to become a teacher?

As a young child I always said I wanted to be a teacher, but when it came to choosing options for university I began to have doubts. But after completing a BA Hons in English, and finding myself working in an office, I felt there was something missing.

An opportunity arose when my sister's Brownie pack needed extra volunteers. I really enjoyed spending time with the children playing, making, learning and exploring. It was a great feeling - like you were giving something back and making a difference to those children who, without the lovely Guiding ladies who gave up their time, would miss out on lots of fantastic opportunities.

I knew then that working with children was what I wanted to do. So, I quit my job and began

applying for PGCEs. I guess it goes to prove sometimes your first instinct is right after all.

lessons that really makes the difference. I guess that applies to life in general, not just teaching.

What is the most memorable lesson you have taught?

What is the best part of teaching?

It has to be when I was teaching a transport topic to a Year 1 class. They were learning how to write a newspaper article. The staff cornered off a section of the school's decking, using do not cross tape, and filled it with bits and bobs from the garage such as a car wheel, nuts and bolts and a piece of leather amongst other things.

The next morning when the children arrived we told them that a vehicle had crashed overnight and the head teacher had asked for their help to investigate. Some of the answers were amazing and the children were truly excited.

What is your top teaching tip?

Don't sweat the small stuff. There is no point worrying about what's already happened, just learn from it. No one has great lessons all the time and it's what you learn from the less great

The light bulb moment when you realise the children have got it. That's when you know you are making a difference.

What makes Mana Education stand out from other agencies?

The staff! They are just so exible and supportive.

As a new mum I decided that supply work would suit my needs better than a full time permanent role.

When I signed up to Mana they came to me rather than me having to go to them. They listened to what I wanted, which is so important, and crucially as soon as my DBS came through I had steady work straight away in roles which I had asked for.

I would definitely recommend them to anyone thinking of doing supply work.

Teachers and schools can contact Mana Education for an informal chat 0800 0255 144, email info@manaeducation.co.uk or visit www.manaeducation.co.uk

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Love Peterborough, Love Your Community recycling reward scheme The Love Peterborough, Love Your Community recycling reward scheme, launched by Peterborough City Council in partnership with Amey in October 2015, encourages residents to recycle more and support community projects.

T

he scheme is available to residents in the Eye and Thorney, Hampton, Werrington, East, Paston and Walton, Stanground and North Bretton wards. Residents sign up via the dedicated website and can gain green points by taking part in recycling ‘modules’ ranging from using their Hungry Harry food caddy and buying from the WEEE Reuse facility to donating to charity shops.

The scheme is based on a simple rationale: reduce, reuse and recycle. Residents can also

nominate local charities to receive an array of cash prizes up to £3,000 and top recycling individuals receive a £50 voucher.

In the latest round of rewards made in September 2016, Werrington was the winning area.

Residents voted for local charity Way In Community House to receive £3,000 and the money will help support the project and ensure there is a safe and welcoming place for residents to meet new people and learn new skills. The communities in second

and third place were Hampton and North Bretton respectively.

Residents also donated £2,000 to Peterborough Foodbank, which provides three days of nutritionally-balanced emergency food and support to local people in crisis, and £1,000 to Green Backyard, a sustainable community growing project.

If you live in one of the named areas and want to sign up to the Love Peterborough, Love your Community scheme visit www.lovepeterborough.com or call 01733 425310.

If you are a member of a community group or charity within Peterborough, or know of one that could benefit from the scheme, either email greenerpeterboroughcomms@amey.co.uk or telephone 01733 425310

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The Children’s University

PETERBOROUGH

At the heart of the Children’s University are the aims to raise aspiration, boost achievement and foster a love of learning.

S

even to 14 year olds, and five to six year olds with their families, are given the opportunity to be involved in high quality learning experiences outside the school day and often in exciting locations such as museums, country parks and leisure centres.

In Peterborough, interest in The Children’s University from schools, parents and children is growing as people become aware of the benefits for all involved.

Around 20 schools are now enabling their pupils to collect hours in their Passport To Learning from before school, during play and lunchtimes and after school activities.

There are also many excellent Children’s University Learning Destinations in the area which have been validated to ensure they provide high quality and valuable learning opportunities.

Involvement in these very different types of learning can have a positive impact on a child’s confidence, motivation and attitude to learning in school.

Many of the activities also provide wonderful opportunities for parents to learn alongside their children and have fun together.

Fostering a love of learning

If you are a school or parent who would like to be part of the Peterborough Children’s University, or a venue interested in becoming a Learning Destination, contact Gill Hall, Peterborough Children’s University Manager, Gill.Hall@vivacity-peterborough.com or call 01733 864784

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&books

Boys

Reading is one of the most important life skills we learn as children. It not only enables us to extend our concepts and language, to understand information and learn, but also opens up a magical world of fantasy.

Just as children grow, walk and talk at different rates, so their reading progresses at different paces.

However, it is well-documented that young boys are often more reluctant readers and their achievement in literacy poorer than that of girls of the same age.

There is no single solution to this gender divide, but there are ways to help encourage boys to read for leisure...and pleasure.

Here are some top tips from Reading Chest • Help to create the right environment so boys are more likely to read. Make sure books, magazines and comics are easily accessible, more so than the iPad or Xbox. And don’t worry if boys choose easy material, they need to start by making reading a habit and then build stamina.

• Make sure dad is reading at home. Research shows that the impact of parents, and in particular dads, has a huge positive impact on children’s reading. If boys never see their dad, older brother or other influential male role models reading they are much less likely to pick up a book themselves.

• Boys are far more likely to read for utilitarian purposes than girls. Let them choose their own reading material and read for a purpose. Try gadget or sports magazines, football programmes and biographies.

• Even if boys don’t like reading themselves they will often enjoy listening to stories. If you are out of the habit of reading (quite likely if you have older children), then get back into the routine.

Also make the most of long car journeys with audio books which are a great way to keep boys’ interest in stories alive.

For more reading advice and easy access to a wide range of books suited to your child’s ability, including 600 non-fiction titles, visit

www.readingchest.co.uk

£5 OFF

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Term Times readers will receive £5 off their first month’s membership when they join Reading Chest by using the discount code TERMTIMES17

Cambridgeshire Constabulary promotion

Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s online safety advice Almost all children today have access to the internet through schools, libraries, community centres, or their home. Most eight to 18-year-olds have internet access from their home computers.

N

ot only do more children have access to the internet than ever before but they are using it more too.

Many schools incorporate the internet into their curriculum and encourage online research for projects.

But that’s not all kids are doing online. They also e-mail, chat with friends through apps and in chat rooms, play games, create websites and blogs and generally surf the net.

Even as they grow savvier in their use of the internet, it can still be a dangerous place.

The good news is that most dangers can be avoided if children and their parents learn about smart internet use.

Have a conversation

Are you internet savvy?

Parental controls

Do you know your tweets from your snaps or your Whatsapps from your Yik Yaks? Do you know the minimum age required to join social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter?

Try and keep abreast of the most popular social networking sites and familiarise yourself with the websites and applications your children are using or interested in.

The good news is that most dangers can be avoided if children and their parents learn about smart internet use

Consider joining so you understand how they work and the content your child could be exposed to.

Keep it in the family It’s a good idea to keep all computers and tablets in a family area so you can see the sites your child is using and be on hand if they need help.

Phones and games consoles are also popular methods of going online so make sure you are aware of other ways your child may be accessing information.

Talking to your child openly and regularly is one of the best ways to help keep them safe.

Explore sites and apps together and discuss what is appropriate for them based on their age.

Ask them about things they may have seen online which made them feel uncomfortable.

Talk about how they can stay safe on social networks by understanding how to keep information private or block someone.

Most importantly reassure them that you’re just looking out for them.

The NSPCC has lots of useful information for parents worried about their child being online.

Parental controls are a way of keeping children safe online. They can be used to block upsetting or harmful content, control in-app purchases and manage how long your child spends online.

The UK Safer Internet Centre have lots of information on how to set up parental controls.

Share aware If your children are on social media, make sure they are share aware.

Everyone should be selective about uploading images, status updates and messages.

Once circulated online, images can be shared widely.

Ensure your children know never to share their personal details, like a phone number or address, with someone online or agree to meet a stranger in person, even if they’ve been communicating with them online.

Cyber bullying The internet is now used as a place to bully others.

Common signs include children becoming withdrawn or shy, changing friends, not wanting to go to school or suddenly not using the computer or tablet.

If you are concerned about any online activity call police on 101 or visit the Internet Watch Foundation (www.iwf.org.uk) for advice

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WIN

BRINGING LOCAL HISTORY TO LIFE

K

ing’s Lynn’s fascinating history is being brought vividly to life in the fun and interactive Stories of Lynn exhibition.

Set within the magnificent, newlyrevealed vaulted undercroft of the 15th century Trinity Guildhall, visitors discover stories of the seafarers, explorers, merchants, mayors, magistrates and miscreants who shaped 800 years of the town’s history.

The interactive and multi-media attraction combines Lynn’s collection of fascinating objects - including the King John Cup, a rare 14th century drinking vessel lavishly decorated in gilt and enamel - and its nationallysignificant archive.

at Stories of Lynn Visitors explore many of the historic rooms within the town hall complex, including the stunning Georgian Assembly Room and Card Room.

In the Old Gaol House they learn about the town hall’s history as the magistrate’s court and gaol.

The exhibition’s schools programme offers the perfect opportunity to bring curriculum subjects to life.

Pupils learn about the past through hands-on sessions including costumed characters, handling objects, storytelling and craft activities.

Three different full-day school visits are available, with free planning

visits for teachers when booked in advance: • All the Fun of the Fair: Frederick Savage (KS1/2) focuses on the incredible rags-to-riches story of this local engineer, entrepreneur and former Mayor. Half the day is spent at Stories of Lynn and the other half at Lynn Museum • Floods and Flooding (KS2) looks at whether the 1953 flooding of Lynn, when the river burst its banks, could happen again and explores flood markers and defences • Medieval Merchants of Lynn (KS2) considers the wealth and importance of King’s Lynn’s past through international trade.

A FANTASTIC CLASS TRIP

WIN A CLASS TRIP TO STORIES OF LYNN

Our friends at Stories of Lynn are offering one school the chance to win a fantastic class trip to the exhibition.

The winning class, up to 35 pupils and accompanying staff, will spend the day discovering the exciting stories and artefacts.

Each child will also receive a goody bag (worth £3 per pupil) and a ‘Grab a Grown-up’ voucher for a free return visit to the exhibition with a paying adult.

To enter simply name two of the historic rooms within the town hall complex and follow the competition instructions on page 3.

Closing date 5 March.

The prize can only be redeemed on a Tuesday and must be taken within six months of receipt. No cash alternative will be offered. School visits are tailored to suit Key Stage classes and the winner will be contacted by the Learning and Engagement Officer to discuss options. The winner will be responsible for transport to the exhibition and supervising children during the visit.

www.kingslynntownhall.com/storiesoflynn

Puffin Book Review Last Stop on Market Street

by Matt de la Peña, paperback, £6.99 Winner of the prestigious Newbery Award, this groundbreaking picture book explores urban life through the eyes of a young boy and his nana. CJ begins his weekly bus journey around the city with disappointment and dissatisfaction, wondering why he and his family can’t drive a car like his friends. But CJ’s nana helps him discover there is beauty, interest and excitement everywhere. This evocative story is told through the rhythms and poetry of real life and explores different cultures and identities with honesty.

Carpet People

by Terry Pratchett, paperback, £6.99 In the beginning, there was nothing but endless flatness.

Then came the Car-pet... That’s the old story everyone knows and loves. But now the Carpet is home to many different tribes and peoples and there’s a new story in the making.

Fray, sweeping a trail of destruction across the Carpet.

Power-hungry mouls - and of two Munrung brothers, who set out on an amazing adventure. A story that will come to a terrible end if something isn’t done...

The Young Magicians and the Thieves’ Almanac

by Nick Mohammed, paperback, £6.99 Meet four unlikely friends, desperate to become magicians.

Alex, Zac, Sophie and Jonny are thrown together for their induction week at the secretive, world-famous Magic Circle.

But behind its doors things are not quite what they expect.

Join them in an adventure that may, or may not, involve the search for a secret book, a set of impossible crimes...and a flock of very confused pigeons.

ENTER TO

WIN 22

BOOKSFORSCHOOLS

Anyone can enter this competition and three winners will scoop books for their school. To enter, follow the instructions on page 3. Closing date 5 March.

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Putting great

ART

on your doorstep

P

eterborough Presents works with local communities to create great art projects that are new, exciting and relevant.

The consortium also provides training and support for artists and promoters and strives to raise the profile of the arts in the city.

The overall aim is to increase opportunities for Peterborough people to participate in cultural activities, whether by attending local festivals, exhibitions and shows, or joining a choir or dance group.

The consortium is part of Arts Council England’s Creative People and Places Programme and led by Vivacity with Metal, Creative Peterborough and Voluntary Arts.

Term Times had the opportunity to speak to Programme Director Josie Stone.

What projects has Peterborough Presents put on for families?

What’s next for Peterborough Presents?

There have been lots! Most recently, we transformed Central Library into a Fun Palace by running lots of free arts and crafts workshops and performances.

Activities included ukulele workshops, mosaic-making, mini canvas painting, paper marbling, and many more. It was really fun and popular!

We’ve also run kite-making workshops in schools, put on babyfriendly discos and our big events are nearly always family-friendly.

For 2017 we’re going to work with local communities to put great art on their doorsteps.

To begin with, we’re working in North Bretton, Hampton and Millfield and everything we do will be developed with local residents. Each area will have a unique programme of activity and a community festival suitable for families of all ages. We’ll be creating new spaces for art, more opportunities for people to participate and more events for people to attend and enjoy.

We’re currently announcing our exciting new projects, and there will be lots of opportunities for local families to get involved in great art.

What have been your favourite Peterborough Presents projects so far?

Personally, I really loved ‘Wet Sounds’. It was a project this summer at the Lido where we had an afternoon of underwater music and some performances on the grass. It was awesome.

Where can people find out more about Peterborough Presents?

They can follow us on social media www.facebook.com/ PeterboroughPresents/ and www.twitter.com/pboropresents, sign up to our mailing list and visit our website www.peterboroughpresents.org/

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