TermTimes 148

AU T U MN HALF -TER M ISSU E

See page 5 Issue 148 – October to November 2021

the magazine for families PARENT MATTERS: STARTING SCHOOL

WIN CROMWELL CLASS TRIP TICKETS FOR SKYLARK

DAY TRIPPERS Holkham Hall explored SPOTLIGHT ON AMBER DAVIES STAY CLEAN

Covering Cambridge, Fenland, Huntingdon, Oundle, Peterborough, Spalding, South Kesteven, Wisbech and more

HICKS KARATE FAMILY MARTIAL ARTS CENTRE TWO WEEKS

FREE TRIAL

5-11 yrs

3-4 yrs

UNIT 4, VICARAGE FARM ROAD, FENGATE, PETERBOROUGH PE1 5TP CLASSES ALSO AVAILABLE IN ORTON, FENGATE, EYE, WERRINGTON AND DEEPING

The essential FREE publication for you and your children

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Welcome back!

Welcome to our Autumn issue!

October, the home of misty mornings, crunchy leaves under foot and starry skies. Fireworks, forest walks and the odd ghoul or ghost… there is a lot to like about this season.

Whilst safety must always be observed, Bonfire Night is a family event I loved as a child and even more so as a parent.

Attending an organised display or just setting off some smaller fireworks in your own garden is a great annual experience.

Rockets, Catherine Wheels and Roman Candles light up the dark sky and the more unusually-named fireworks, such as Starlight Express and the Dragon Fire, are a visual delight. Throw in a toffee apple or two and the warmth of a roaring, outdoor bonfire and we can enjoy Guy Fawkes Night once again safely and respectfully.

One local lad, Oliver Cromwell, would not share our love of Halloween and Bonfire Night. However, in this issue we have the pleasure of involving him by offering a free class educational trip to be won at the Cromwell Museum in Huntingdon.

With your school’s permission, this competition offers a chance for you to win an excellent day out to this local museum. See page 14 for more details.

Our local theatres are also thankfully reopening and ready to entertain us as you will see in this issue. CBBC star, Amber Davies, tells us all about the new show ‘Bring It On’ at the New Theatre.

Panto season is also almost upon us and we learn what Cinderella has to offer at the Key Theatre in Peterborough. Book your tickets and look forward to a great night out.

Nene Park’s resident visitor ranger, Sophie Rolfe, tells us all about the Autumn wildlife residents we can expect to see as we enter the season. Autumn is an important time of year for many creatures in local parks and gardens alike…. Keep your eyes peeled.

Enjoy the issue and see you next on November 19.

Amanda

Advertise with us Term Times distributes 50,000 printed copies to 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. For options available, please contact the team on 01780 757731 or email steven@termtimes.ltd.uk

In this issue Editorial Bowthorpe.........................................................4 Pods Elf................................................................4 Apprenticeships..............................................6 Kumon Education...........................................8 Nene Park Events............................................8 New School Mum............................................10 Meet Amber Davies.......................................13 Cinderella at the Key Theatre...................16 Learn at the UCP.............................................17 Day Trip to Holkham.....................................18 Take up Karate with Hicks..........................18 Autumn Wildlife..............................................20 What’s on at the Cathedral........................20 Birthdays & Puzzles.......................................22 Supporting Students at Kip McGrath....23

Competitions

Win Book Bundle............................................14 Win a Class Trip................................................14 Win Copies of The Memory Thieves......14 Win Skylark Tickets.......................................15

Contact us Publisher: Steven Beacham Editor: Amanda Stacey T: 01780 757731 E: steven@termtimes.ltd.uk 70 Rutland Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1UW

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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.

Birthdays Does your child have a birthday soon?

Would you like to have it announced in a forthcoming issue of Term Times?

Just send us their name, photo, age, date of birthday and details of who it's from to: steven@termtimes.ltd.uk

Has your child lost their mojo?

At Little Voices we are all about BUILDING CONFIDENCE! As things get back to normal, how has your child coped with everything? There have been huge changes to children’s lives and many found themselves struggling to make adjustments. Children’s mental health is suffering and so many have lost their self-confidence.

PUBLICATION LAYOUTS | IT SUPPORT WEB DEVELOPMENT | BRANDING

01733 772095

Children’s wellbeing is at the heart of what we do and your child will learn to cope with the world around them and regain their confidence, through our fun and funky musical theatre classes!

What makes us different? Our small class size!

www.dimension6000.com 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/advertisers 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.

No getting lost at the back of 40+ kids! Our small groups mean that we get to know your child, they settle in and make friends quickly, and will receive the individual attention and one to one tuition they deserve.

Our books are now open for children aged 4 - 18 years.

Reserve your child’s place NOW for their free trial lesson.

(Places are strictly limited due to our small class sizes).

Drama & singing lessons in Stanground, Werrington & Orton t: 07801 953 643 | e: julie@littlevoices.org.uk facebook-square Twitter-square instagram www.littlevoices.org.uk

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BOWTHORPE PARK FARM PROMOTION

PODS PROMOTION

Does somebody need a hug?

Get set for the ultimate dose of Christmas cheer as Peterborough Operatic and Dramatic Society is back with a bang.

A Farm with a Claim to Fame Elf the Musical at The Cresset Bowthorpe Park Farm is a family farm in south Lincolnshire with a very famous tree.

Based on the much-loved holiday movie starring Will Ferrell, this heartwarming, high-energy, sweet-as-syrup-spaghetti smash-hit musical is just the thing to get you in the festive mood, along with dancing Santas, spectacular flying sleighs, sparkling showtunes and ‘SNOW!’

The Bowthorpe Oak is in fact the UK’s largest girthed oak tree, with a trunk measuring over 13.3 metres in circumference and experts predict it could be up to 1,300 years old! Its naturally hollow trunk was hollowed further in the 1700’s by the then owner, George Pauncefort, to make way for dinner parties to be held inside. He also installed a door, a pigeon loft and a tiled floor. Although ruined over time – the door and pigeon loft have long gone and the floor was uprooted by pigs in the sixties – this majestic, ancient tree is still a sight to be seen.

Perfect for all the family, the show follows the story of Buddy, the 30-yearold accidental elf who doesn’t realise he’s really a human. As he towers over the rest of North Pole elves, bewildered at his failings as a toy maker, Buddy sets off on a quest to New York to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh reality that his dad is on the naughty list while his brother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy resolves to win over his new family and help a heartless city rediscover the real meaning of Christmas.

The Blanchard family, who has farmed at Bowthorpe for four generations, keep livestock and grow crops. Their newly-built farm shop offers customers Lincoln Red beef, Berkshire pork and Jacob lamb – all grown on the farm, giving you a real farm-to-fork experience with provenance.

Elf the Musical follows on from Peterborough Operatic and Dramatic Society’s stellar run of award-winning productions, from the sell-out success of Hairspray to their critically-acclaimed Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. It’s also set to be one of the first festive productions to return to the city after the coronavirus pandemic and PODS are determined to come back with a bang.

Events are held throughout the year starting with lambing in the spring, Open Farm Sunday, a Summer Solstice festival and Halloween.

So don’t be a cotton-headed ninnymuggins... get your tickets now!

www.bowthorpeparkfarm.co.uk | Opening times: 10am–2pm Sat–Sun.

Elf the Musical is at The Cresset, Peterborough 23–27 November. Book tickets at the Cresset box office, call 01733 265 705 or visit cresset.ticketsolve.com

23 - 31 OCTOBER 10am - 4pm

HALLOWEEN FUN Join us this October half term for ...

• Pick your own pumpkin from the pumpkin patch • Pumpkin carving in the barn, so no mess at home BOOKING REQUIRED

• Bale maze • Farm animals • Hot food and drink FREE PUMPKIN FOR EVERY CHILD ENTRY

www.Bowthorpeparkfarm.co.uk/whats on Manthorpe, Bourne, Lincs PE10 0JG 4

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IQ PLUS

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01733 551 111 | admin@IQplus.co.uk | www.IQplus.co.uk 29 Alexandra Road, Peterborough PE1 3DE

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RIVERSIDE TRAINING PROMOTION

Five Reasons to Become an Apprentice Apprenticeships aren’t only for those in their 20s; anyone can become an apprentice, get paid to learn and make positive career changes.

From Accountancy and Payroll Administration to Teaching Assistants and Early Years Education, Riverside Training connects students of all ages across Spalding, Cambridgeshire and Suffolk with employers to facilitate career changes and professional development. Riverside works in a variety of fields including adult care work, customer service and retail, education, business administration and management, to name a few. But why should you consider an apprenticeship as your next step? Here’s five reasons to get you started…

C Hands-On Learning

E Learn Better By Doing

Unlike University, or sole classroom-based training, apprenticeships give you first-hand experience within the workplace and the opportunity to learn from a multitude of talented professionals in your field of choice.

You develop quickly, learn new skills and get to put them into practice immediately. It’s a strong foundation for a long and prosperous career.

If you struggle with coursework and learn better by doing on-the-job training, an apprenticeship allows you to demonstrate your skills and knowledge. The hands-on experience gives you material to write about in your coursework making any academics much easier.

B Earn While You Learn

Aside from the invaluable hands-on experience, apprenticeship can boost your confidence and people skills. If you’ve been out of the workplace for a while or embarking on a completely new career after the pandemic, a new environment can be daunting. Apprenticeships not only train you to become professionals in your field but promote teamwork and soft skills to help you succeed even quicker.

Many mature apprentices have families to support and that makes switching careers or going back to school feel risky. With an apprenticeship, you get fantastic training whilst still earning a wage. Many apprentices, once qualified, will also be offered employment by the company that they did their apprenticeship with. It’s a solid route for a new career path.

D Boost Your Confidence

F Become Employable As an apprentice who’s eager to learn the expertise of others, you’ll often become an invaluable asset to the company you train with as you learn and embody their ethos and approach. As it’s easier to teach best practice to staff who have less poor practice hard-wired in, by picking the right apprenticeship you’re often find your apprenticeship turns into a full-time, fully-paid employment contract by the end of the course. They invest in you as much as you invest in them.

Learn more about our apprenticeships available to you today: www.riversidetrainingspalding.co.uk/apprentice/

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KUMON PROMOTION

Get Ready for an

Take Advantage of Kumon’s FREE Trial Help your child excel with Kumon maths and English programmes.

Awesome Autumn The October half-term holiday sees a whole host of exciting autumnal events at Nene Park.

* Study based in England. Details can be found at kumon.co.uk

The aim of Kumon is to help children of any age and any ability discover their full potential and achieve beyond their expectations. With more than 60 years of experience, the Kumon Maths and English programmes enable students to develop into confident, independent learners with strong study skills – and now you can try it for free!

Kumon is proud to be recognised as an education provider that delivers proven academic results. An independent study revealed that Kumon students are more than a year ahead of the national average, and six months ahead of their peers in their maths learning at the end of primary school*.

Students are nurtured by giving them the tools they need to enjoy learning and thrive academically, which increases their enjoyment across a range of subjects at school, alongside preparing them for personal and professional success.

Kumon believe this opportunity to grow on both an academic and a personal level should be available to all children. That’s why, from 1 September – 31 October 2021, they are offering a free trial to all new students.

Contact your local centre to start your child’s free trial now.

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NENE PARK PROMOTION

From Saturday 23 October, the park will be hosting a week-long extravaganza of fantastic seasonal activities and events for the whole family to enjoy. You can choose from scarecrow making and wonderful autumnal colour walks, to archery, climbing and making your very own broomstick.

There is also a colourful autumnal holiday trail, numerous daily water sports activities, including canoes, kayaks and paddleboarding, Nene Outdoors and long, lazy boat trips on Overton Lake. You can even make a bird box or join in on a community litter pick!

For more details on all of the Autumn Festival events and to book tickets, please go to www.nenepark.org.uk/events. You can also contact Nene Outdoors directly for more information on 01733 234193 or email nene.outdoors@neneparktrust.org.uk

The half-term holiday also sees the long-awaited re-opening of Lost World, the exciting Amazonthemed soft play centre at Serpentine Green shopping centre. There are lots of amazing activities on offer including interactive climbing walls and the iconic 350 degree volcano slide.

Open seven days a week, Lost World also boasts a great café with lots of delicious drinks and snacks on offer.

Discover new adventures at Lost World yourself by visiting www.lost-world.co.uk

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School Survival Guide From seasoned school-run mum to first-time school mums, Joanne Townsend shares her insights and advice for embracing the emotional transition.

Starting school is an exciting but nerve-racking time for children and parents. The first weeks of school are perhaps the largest and last milestones your child will encounter whilst still willing to hold your hand and they're ones to treasure, not be terrified by.

The year is full of fun but can be overwhelming as you both find your new groove, so here are some things that worked for my family during that first term and beyond. Maybe they’ll work for you too…

The first term will whizz by and create more independent, smarter and confident children. It’s thrilling to see how quickly and dramatically they develop and change; they’ll suddenly have strong opinions, likes and dislikes, and hobbies. Their social network will explode and you’ll feel you need a class list with matching photographs to keep up with who’s friend of the week and all the birthday parties.

• Do read with your kids - Whilst pupils do read a lot in class, teachers often only have the time to do one-on-one reading with each child weekly to check progress and change books so it’s really important that your child reads with you at home regularly. You’ll be amazed at the progress they’ll make in that first term.

Some schools do have class blogs where they post weekly highlights or an app that lets you comment on your child’s progress, so stay informed. There will be moments when you couldn’t be prouder as they get rewarded for good behaviour, helping others or producing great work. Speaking to other parents at drop-off and pick-up is a lifeline – a chance to make friends with people who feel as you do, who can laugh with you at the inevitable school-life mishaps and remind you of the various events and donation days you’ll almost forget – and also build your social network just as your child does.

Throughout the year there are many exciting things, from school performances and sports day to parent’s evenings and hopefully a glowing report as you discover their academic strengths and weaknesses.

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• Prepare for the tiredness - Five days of full-time school is tiring for children, especially if they’re only used to a couple of days in pre-school. Be ready for some early nights and even cranky behaviour – especially in the first couple of weeks.

• Do ask the teacher for advice or feedback Teachers will happily talk to you if you have any concerns about your child. Often chatting at the school gates isn’t appropriate for long conversations so don’t be afraid to send an email or ask for a phone call home.

• Label everything - It’s guaranteed that they will misplace an item (especially on PE days) so label everything – uniform, water bottles, coats, gloves, stationery… everything!

• Keep up with emails and newsletters - You will have plenty to sign and read every week.

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WISE OWL PROMOTION

Take Cover with The Apron Supply Company Their Wise Owl Apron range of aprons and tabards are perfect for school activities and Early Years settings where protecting clothing is essential. With waterproof and wipe-clean finishes, they will keep children’s clothes protected, making craft and STEM sessions a little less messy!

‘We use these in one of the food classrooms and they are so good we placed another order. The aprons are used by each year group, so must fit a variety of different sizes and they do this very well. The clip fastening means there are no more tangles. The apron is thick plastic and protects from any spills of hot ingredients. We are very pleased with the aprons and would highly recommend them.’

Jane - Spalding Academy With spiralling costs and shortages, protecting uniforms has never been more necessary; and there’s no better way than wearing a well-made apron that is designed to endure the rigours of classroom life.

The Wise Owl aprons are the perfect solution for keeping clothes clean while crafting and learning.

They offer three fabrics – PVC, poly cotton and PU coated, three styles – bib aprons, tabards and smocks and several sizes including adults. Stocked are a variety of colours too, which ensures all your requirements are met.

The aprons have securely attached cotton ties and you have the choice of having the halters and ties fixed or adjustable. The latter has a single-side

release clip at the hip, which helps avoid costly knots and tangles. They also offer a less intrusive way of the children fixing their own aprons which is great for their independence.

A bespoke service is offered to ensure customers have a product that meets their specifications.

There is also a customisation service to place a school logo or child’s name on the garments as well. The aprons represent excellent value for money and are a great long-term investment for your school, group or family.

The Apron Supply Company Pledge: A great working relationship with great customer service, removing the stress of ordering quality items at competitive prices. This includes account

facilities, free postage on orders over £150 and bulk discounts.

Real value for money. The aprons are made in the U.K. to a high standard and from carefully chosen fabrics which are selected for their durability. They will protect uniforms for years to come.

Ordering is quick, simple, and secure through our dedicated website. View and select products easily, pay via trusted card options, or simply send a purchase order and pay via a credit account.

Order today and receive a 20% discount by using the code TT20 at checkout. This code can be used more than once and is valid until August 2022.

Bulk discounts still apply and all other offers are excluded.

Contact by phone on 01733 834 466, email: admin@theapronsupplycompany.co.uk or via www.theapronsupplycompany.co.uk The Apron Supply Company supporting local manufacturing businesses.

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Manor Drive

How to Apply

Primary and Secondary Academies APPLYING TO THE PRIMARY ACADEMY You can apply if your child was born between 1 September 2017 and 31 August 2018. The time to apply is between 10 September 2021 and 15 January 2022. To apply you must complete the application form on our website: www.manordriveprimary.org.uk “Choosing a school for your Reception age child can be both exciting and daunting. At Manor Drive Primary Academy we understand the delicate balance between nurturing your child and challenging them as they start their journey through school.”

Opening September 2022 The Four Cs Multi Academy Trust is delighted to be opening two new schools in September 2022.

Manor Drive Primary Academy will open to Reception children. It will also have a nursery for 3 and 4 year olds. The Academy will be a dynamic and innovative school which is built on traditional core values: high standards, innovative teaching and a strong emphasis on student wellbeing. The ethos focuses on enabling every student to make outstanding progress through the highest quality of teaching and learning. The unique and diverse curriculum will equip students with the skills, knowledge and values needed for a successful future.

Manor Drive Secondary Academy will open for Year 7 only. It will create a learning environment that is not only stimulating and celebratory but also, most importantly, one that meets the needs of every young person in our care. There will be the opportunity to pursue a range of extra-curricular activities aimed at encouraging students to develop their interests and explore new ones, and all of this in a brand new, state of the art campus.

It will actively seek to involve families and the local community to be part of the Academy’s everyday life.

Mrs R McCloskey, Headteacher, Manor Drive Primary Academy.

APPLYING TO THE SECONDARY ACADEMY Parents with children in Year 6 can apply, they should be born between 1 September 2010 and 31 August 2011. You should apply between 10 September 2021 and 31 October 2021 To apply you must complete the application form on our website: www.manordrivesecondary.org.uk “Manor Drive Secondary Academy will endeavour to fulfil and exceed the expectations you have for your child. Whilst exam performance is important, I believe education is about so much more; we will develop character, emotional resilience and self-confidence, as well as engendering a respect for cultural diversity.”

Ms J Sludds, Headteacher, Manor Drive Secondary Academy.

www.manordriveprimary.org.uk & www.manordrivesecondary.org.uk 12

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NEW THEATRE PROMOTION

WHAT ARE YOUR MEMORIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL? I loved primary school. My sister was four years' older than me and I loved the thought that my older sister was around no matter what. I always had a great bunch of friends at school, some I’m still friends with to this day.

One story I recall, about primary school, is that I used to beg my mum to become a dinner lady.

I think because a couple of the other students’ mums used to work at the school and I was so jealous. Unfortunately, she refused!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAVOURITE AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES… When I was at school, I had something on every weekday whether it was dancing, an acting lesson or singing. I loved the social aspect of it and the girls that I met through those lessons. I would itch to get home from school and go to one of these activities and I made many friends from outside of school at those lessons.

Term Times spoke with CBBC star Amber Davies, who is about to appear in the new musical production ‘Bring It On’ at Peterborough’s New Theatre. Here’s what she had to say.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE THE THREE MOST IMPORTANT QUALITIES OF FRIENDSHIP? I think loyalty, kindness and no judgement. All my friends know that they can come to me with anything and I have a no judgement rule; you can tell me anything and I won’t judge you.

YOU ARE COMING TO PETERBOROUGH WITH ‘BRING IT ON’. TELL US A BIT ABOUT THE CHARACTER THAT YOU PLAY...

She's called Campbell, a very motivated character with huge dreams who just wants to succeed. She is confident with her abilities, knows how far she can push herself and that if she works super hard she should get where she wants.

I really admire her because she gets somewhat lost in wanting to win as she's very headstrong.

It’s a wonderful musical and Campbell is a tough cookie, who softens throughout the musical and figures out what is important. The most important thing being friendship.

WORKING WITH LOCAL STAR, LOUIS SMITH, MUST BE EXCITING, WHAT'S THAT LIKE? I haven't spent much time with Louis yet, however, after our first photography shoot we just clicked and it feels like we’ve known each other for years. Louis has had an amazing career and been really successful, he is so down to earth and very humble. I'm really looking forward to working with him and of course there's no one more trustworthy than Louis to catch me when he's throwing me up in the air. I’m in good hands!

WHAT ADVICE HAVE YOU GOT FOR BUDDING ACTORS?

I think you have to be ambitious. I have never had limiting thoughts or thought my career will stop here. You need to reach for the stars and to I enjoyed all the usual kid’s shows of the era but as I believe that anything and everything is possible. got older my absolute favourite show was ‘Friends’. If you are capable of doing it, it can happen.

WHEN YOU WERE A KID, WHAT WAS YOUR FAVOURITE TELEVISION PROGRAMME?

For more information on ‘Bring It On’ please visit www.newtheatre-peterborough.com

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WIN

WIN

THREE BOOKS

FIVE TO GIVEAWAY

To celebrate the release of Moonchild: City of the Sun, we are giving away both books in the Middle Eastern-inspired adventure series, as well as Aisha’s standalone novel, A Pocketful of Stars.

This issue we have a fantastic competition for all you reading buffs out there.

We are giving away five copies of The Memory Thieves by Darren Simpson.

HarperCollins Publishers Author: Aisha Bushby Ages: 9+ RRP: £6.99 each

Usborne Publishing Author: Darren Simpson Ages: 11+ RRP: £7.99

Farah is a Moonchild with a very special kind of magic and a jinni of her own.

But although she loves her magical animal companion – a lizard called Layla – Farah isn’t entirely convinced that she’s cut out for the life of adventure, which seems to bring endless danger!

When it becomes clear that Farah and her fellow Moonchildren – Leo and Amira – have unlocked moon magic that could destroy the Sahar Peninsula, Farah and her friends are thrust into another accidental adventure. And it takes them to a burning desert and another mysterious city which holds deadly secrets of its own…

Jam-packed with excitement and adventure, this duology will have you gripped until the very last page and the bonus is you will still have A Pocketful of Stars to get your teeth into! A smashing prize for three lucky winners.

Moonchild: Voyage of the Lost and Found is the stunning prequel to Moonchild: City of the Sun by Aisha Bushby, illustrated by Rachael Dean – and published

by Farshore. All three novels are available to buy now from all good book retailers.

This is Darren’s second book and his debut novel, Scavengers, was a Guardian Best Book of the Year, was selected for the national Summer Reading Challenge and shortlisted for the Northern Ireland Book Award.

The Memory Thieves is a thrilling adventure story, full of dazzling world building and a plot that will have you on the edge of your seat! In a nutshell, Cyan has lived at the Elsewhere Sanctuary for as long as he can remember, freed by Dr Haven from dark memories of his past life. But when Cyan finds a mysterious warning carved into the bones of a whale skeleton, he starts to wonder what he had to forget to be so happy. New resident, Jonquil, begins to resist the sanctuary’s treatment, preferring to hold on to her memories – even the bad ones. So when Dr Haven resorts to harsher measures, Cyan embarks on a secret mission to discover the truth about the sanctuary… and himself.

Darren hopes the novel will inspire readers to talk about their doubts and fears; to be strong about being weak; to let out their feelings, and to show kindness when others do the same.

Please go to page 3 for details on how to enter. Closing date 31 October.

To have a chance of winning a copy of this fabulous book, turn to page 3 for more details. Closing date 31 October.

A FANTASTIC DAY TRIP Located in historic Huntingdon, The Cromwell Museum is a great day out for the whole family and one lucky reader can win a school visit for their class.

WIN

The Cromwell Museum is home to the best collection of items relating to the life and times of Oliver Cromwell in the world. The collection is made up over 800 objects, including portraits, clothing, arms and armour, Cromwell’s death masks, and even his hat!

Oliver Cromwell was born in Huntingdon in 1599, where he went to school in the building that is now the Museum. He then rose to prominence during the British Civil Wars, where he ascended through the ranks until he became the Lord Protector – the only commoner who has ever been Head of State in England.

He is a hugely significant, yet controversial figure; the Museum's role is to tell his story ‘warts and all’, and allow visitors to make their own minds up about him.

During a school visit to the Museum, experienced staff and volunteers will lead you through a fun and hands-on session, in which you can see real objects up close, handle artefacts, meet a civil war soldier, and take part in engaging activities.

Curriculum Links Key Stage 2 and 3 History: Local history study.

Key Stage 3 History: Development of Church, state, and society in Early Modern Britain – causes and events of the civil wars, the Interregnum, and the restoration.

The prize entails: Free school visit to the Museum for one class and their accompanying teachers.

The winning class can choose between two sessions: Who is Oliver Cromwell?

(KS2/3) or Civil War! (KS3)

Please ask your school or teacher if they are happy for you to enter on behalf of your class. Then enter via the instructions outlined on page 3. Include your school’s name and the year you are in. Closing date 15 November. The maximum number of students that can visit the Museum is 30. The winning school is responsible for their own transport and safety of their students. You can find The Cromwell Museum at Grammar School Walk, Huntingdon PE29 3LF. Please visit www.cromwellmuseum.org for more details. The visit to be redeemed at a time mutually convenient.

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KEY THEATRE PROMOTION

You Shall go to the Ball as Panto Returns to the Key Theatre!

Cinderella is the Fairy Godmother of all pantomimes, and after Covid halted all theatre productions last year, we can’t wait for you to experience something truly magical this Christmas.

The Key Theatre pantomimes are renowned throughout the region for their quality, with original script and music, plus a traditional sense of good, clean family fun. With decades of experience, it's no wonder that thousands of children have grown up enjoying panto at the Key theatre and many now bring their own families too!

take all the magic our fabulous Fairy Godmother can muster to whisk Cinders from pantry to palace, with only a pumpkin, some mice, and the help of Cinderella’s best friend Buttons. Can she outwit her sisters, make it to the Royal Ball and meet her dashing Prince Charming all before the clock strikes midnight? And will the glass slipper fit? There's only one way to find out!

The story of Cinderella has been told for well over a thousand years and is still one of the most popular fairy tales. Bullied by her two wicked, ugly Stepsisters, Cinderella is made to live a life of drudgery, as a poor servant girl, pandering to their every need, while they shop ‘til they drop and boogie all night! It's going to

Over the last twelve months spectacular sets, sumptuous costumes and incredible special effects have been designed to transform the Key Theatre stage and transport you to the magical world of pantomime. The theatre’s new composer, Simon Hanson, has produced an incredible original score and for the first time in

seven years there will be a live band back in the orchestra pit, filling the intimate auditorium with upbeat, toe-tapping music.

Packed with all the traditional pantomime ingredients you expect, there really is something for everyone, with lots of audience participation, laugh out loud comedy, plenty of boos and hisses, plus a few surprises along the way!

City Culture Peterborough has worked hard to not only keep prices frozen at pre-pandemic levels but also introduce more discounts and more performances at only £10 a ticket so that the best show in town is more affordable and more accessible than ever.

To book please visit: keytheatrepeterborough.ticketsolve.com

3 December - 9 January

TICKETS FROM ONLY £10

BOX OFFICE 01733 207239

KEY THEATRE, EMBANKMENT ROAD, PETERBOROUGH PE1 1EF 16

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UNIVERSITY CENTRE PROMOTION

Money Matters There is a lot of financial help available for mature students who want to return to education and UCP can help guide you to how to access it. Like Emma and Michael, your tuition fees could be covered by Student Finance and be eligible for a maintenance loan, a Childcare Grant and even a Parents’ Learning Allowance to help fill the earnings gap whilst you learn.

"Juggling study with home life has been challenging, but after-school clubs for the children really helped and 85% of the fees are paid by student finance."

Emma

CHANGING COURSE Is going back to school to further your career something you wrestle with? We’ve one inspirational couple with three children who prove that it’s never too late to achieve your ambition.

Life gets busy…especially when you have children.

The days are long and the years are short, add in a few unexpected curve balls that force bestlaid plans off track and it’s easy to wonder if you’ve done everything you can to become the best version of yourself. Is it too late to make dramatic mid-life changes, especially when you’ve dependants to consider, and can you afford to make those changes – the answer is: it’s never too late, and, can you really afford not to make those changes? We all have different stories of when we became parents and how we came to be where we are now but that doesn’t have to be our only story and parents like Emma and Michael Nicholls are an inspiration to us all as they prove just that.

Emma and Michael, parents of three, have both gone back to school after almost a decade.

Embracing the chance for a better future for their family and more personal fulfilment, they’re undertaking degrees at The University Centre Peterborough. Emma with a BA (Hons) Psychosocial Studies degree and Michael, who left school without any qualifications, will be following in her footsteps as he starts his BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences degree in September.

Both completed Access to HE courses at Peterborough Regional College and gained Level 3 qualifications.

Emma, who was a teen mum, spent her early years raising eventually three children – the eldest of whom is now 13 years old. “Now I’d had my kids and they were in school, I felt the urge to further my own career by going to university,” explains Emma.

Before enrolling at UCP, Emma had to complete her Level 2 English and Science double-award GCSE in order to do an Access to Higher Education Humanities and Social Sciences course (equivalent to A Levels) at Peterborough Regional College – her first steps back into education.

“I really enjoyed the psychology element of the Access course and so my teacher encouraged me to apply to UCP. I needed to be in Peterborough for my family, I was familiar with the lecturers already from the Access HE course and I really liked how small the campus was as fewer people meant more one-to-one classes, which has been invaluable!” she adds.

“Juggling study with home life has been challenging, but after-school clubs for the children really helped and 85% of the fees are paid by student finance.

Planning ahead, I’d say, is vital; knowing what evenings you have to work or if you need to take a child to an after-school club and planning life around the days you need to be in University take coordination but it’s doable,” Emma says.

Now in her final year, and having gained experience volunteering as a research assistant through CPFT NHS (Charity for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust), Emma wants to take her schooling even further with a developmental psychology conversion Masters once she has the necessary experience.

Her ambition and hard work have been of huge inspiration to husband Michael who is embarking on a BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences degree at UCP with the view of becoming an immunologist. Having left school at 13 to join the Link programme and start a career in mechanics, Michael wants to switch to science and his preaccess and Access to HE course gave him the GCSE and A-Level equivalents that he needed to enrol at UCP. “On my Access to HE course there were a real mix of people from school leavers and career changers to over 50s and even someone who wanted to change their University course and according to Emma University is no different,” Michael says adds. “At times I thought I might be too old to learn at that level or it would become too much on top of family responsibilities, but you amaze yourself and my children motivated me to do well and set a good example. It’s never too late,” Emma adds.

About UCP University Centre Peterborough (UCP) offers a broad portfolio of courses covering a range of subject areas and are rapidly developing specialisms in a number of key areas. Its growing portfolio of courses reflect the needs of students and local, national and international employers thus leading to genuine employment opportunities.

The University Centre was established in 2007 as a joint venture between Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) and Peterborough College. It’s now a wholly owned subsidiary of the Inspire Education Group. UCP is approved by The Open University as an appropriate organisation to offer higher education programmes leading to Open University validated awards at both Peterborough and Stamford campuses. UCP is also an approved partner of ARU. As a relatively new institution, UCP has a learning environment that is different to other universities, its strength comes from its smaller size, which enables it to put you at the heart of everything it does. When you study with UCP, it will support your development and help you in achieving your career and personal ambitions. www.ucp.ac.uk

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17

PARTNERED BY HEGARTY SOLICITORS

DAY TRIPPERS

Hanging out at

Holkham Any journey via King’s Lynn to Holkham Hall takes little to no time at all – and, before you know it, you’ve arrived at what must be Norfolk’s ultimate tourist attraction. Popular with all age groups, especially with youngsters who have an appetite for action in the great outdoors, Holkham Hall demands an early start and promises a full day of fun.

Holkham is far more than just a magnificent 18th Century stately home surrounded by a 3,000-acre deer park, lake (with boats to hire in summer) and one of the best sandy beaches in East Anglia. You can fill more than a day with all its activities.

The excitement starts once parked in the beautiful wooded grounds that lie a mile from the shoreline and a couple of miles from busy Wells-next-the-Sea. The first sight of the newest attraction, the ropes course with its zip wires, wobbly crossings and swinging bridges, should put off any hankering to get to the sea. With your harness on and in the safe hands of a trained team, there’s a short induction and safety briefing before the fun begins as you climb into the trees onto the main course to see Holkham from a different perspective.

You have to be over one-metre tall and those under 1.25-metres and under age six must have an adult accompanying them around the 25-element course, which costs £19. If you are between six and 16-years-old you still need an adult to supervise you either on the course or from the ground.

and scenery is made for exploration on foot or bike, and there are plenty of trails ranging up to six miles long. If you don’t have your own bicycles, you can hire them for the whole family – including electric – on Tuesdays, Fridays, weekends and holidays. A child bike for two hours is £9 and an adult bike £11.

The high-quality equipment is well maintained and the continuous belay system means you’re never detached from the safety line whilst on the course. There’s no need to be super fit but you will be on your feet for an hour climbing stairs, crouching, bending and balancing, finishing with a descent down to the ground via two exhilarating zip lines.

Check the opening times on the Holkham website below.

Of course, the Palladian-style Hall with its state rooms, tapestries, paintings and original kitchen is definitely worthy of a visit, as is the Holkham Stories Experience to find out more about its history. Make time too for the tractor and trailer wildlife and deer safaris as well as the lovely walled kitchen gardens.

For those feeling less energetic, the free woodland play area next door has climbing frames, high-level bridges, walkways and treehouses. But Holkham with its wildlife

Holkham Hall hosts many events during the year including evening concerts and the Saturday Parkrun. There’s a free, dog-friendly park open to visitors all the time (there is a car parking charge redeemable by spending over £20 in the gift shop) and the recommended Courtyard café is a welcoming retreat for refreshment.

Discover what’s on and when

www.holkham.co.uk

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 and Oakham 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

Free Trial with Hicks Karate Does your child want to try karate? Join at one of outdoor locations in Peterborough for free.

Award-winning Hicks Karate Family Martial Arts Centre in Fengate, Peterborough, has been teaching children for more than 25 years and is offering weekly classes at outdoor venues as well as seven days a week at its karate school.

The outside venues are safe training areas fully equipped with safety training mats, punch bags, kick shields, focus pads and lots of other great equipment.

• Eye Community Centre – Wednesdays 4.30pm (Five–11 year olds) • The Cross School - Deeping – Wednesdays 4.30pm (Three–Four 4 year olds) • The Cross School - Deeping – Wednesdays 5.30pm (Five–11 year olds) • Herlington Community Centre, Orton Malbourne – Friday’s 6pm Orton (Family classes for all ages Six years and up)

• Loxley Community Centre Werrington – Saturday 9.30am (Family classes for all ages Six years and up).

Hicks Karate Family Martial Arts and Fitness Centre, on Vicarage Farm Road, Fengate, PE1 5TP, offers classes seven days a week for ages three and above, including adults and teens classes and fitness classes. It’s renowned for its curriculum and recently won The Cambridgeshire Martial Arts School of the year 2020.

Call/text 079741 962 56 to receive a FREE two-week trial, NO joining fees and a FREE uniform. www.hickskarate.co.uk/book-your-first-class/ 18

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19

NENE PARK PROMOTION

Amazing Autumn Get ready for a scavenger hunt as Nene Park share some of the exciting seasonal changes to come.

As the leaves turn golden and the days get shorter, we turn our minds to Autumn and what treasures nature hides for us to seek. Visitor Ranger Sophie Rolfe, from Nene Park, has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to Nene Park’s seasonal residents and nature’s autumnal bounty but you don’t have to venture far to see it for yourself. Whilst days at Nene Park, enjoying the glorious autumn colours and searching for wildlife, is undoubtedly worth doing, you can see the season change from your garden or local park. She shares some things for families to look out for throughout the season...

Hedgehogs These small mammals have brown spikes all over their backs. Hedgehogs are at serious risk from habitat loss and numbers are in decline so we need to do whatever we can to help them.

What can you do? Build a hedgehog house in your garden to give them a safe place to make their nest and leave small holes at the bottom of your garden fences to make a hedgehog highway.

Leave some meaty cat food (not fish flavoured) or special hedgehog food out but don’t give them milk – hedgehogs are lactose intolerant!

Where to do find them? Hedgehogs are nocturnal and hibernate in winter. In the Autumn,

they’ll be making their nests from fallen leaves in sheltered spots, such as under sheds or in log piles. They can be found in hedgerows, woodland edges, parks and gardens.

Spider Webs Spider webs become much more obvious on cold Autumn mornings when they’re covered in dew or frost. Spiders use webs to catch prey, like insects, and as a shelter. The silk used to make their webs can also be used to stop the spider falling too far as they can climb back up the strand if they fall.

Did you know? There are seven main types of spider web, categorised based on the architecture of the web.

Berries & Seeds Autumn is a great time for seeds and berries, and wild animals are going to be trying to eat as much as possible so they have enough energy to get through the winter when there is little food. Some animals, such as grey squirrels, will also store nuts and seeds to eat over the winter. See what berries and seeds you can

find? Conkers, acorns and blackberries should be aplenty.

Did you know? Acorns are the fruit of Oak trees and contain a single seed inside a hard shell.

They are a vital autumn and winter food source for many animals.

Fun Fungi Fungi is essential for breaking down plant and animal remains and to recycle the nutrients back into the soil. Most of their work goes on below the soil or inside a tree, and the mushroom is just the fruit body that allows the fungus to produce spores (seeds). Some fungi can make us very ill, so look but never touch.

Fly Agaric: Fairy-tale toadstool with red with white spots. Look for them under trees but they are poisonous so don’t touch.

Common Puffball: Often found at Ferry Meadows, the creamy-white Common Puffball grows in most grassy places so keep an eye out.

Candlesnuff Fungus: This small fungi gets its name because it looks like the wick of a blownout candle. It grows on dead wood such as rotting tree stumps and logs on the ground.

  /@NeneParkPboro | www.nenepark.org.uk

The Angels are Coming Illuminate your winter at Peterborough Cathedral.

This November, you can experience the spectacular light and sound show, entitled The Cathedral Illuminated 2021: The Angels Are Coming, at Peterborough Cathedral. From Wed 24 – Sat 27 November, the stunning light display will transform the west front and nave of the Cathedral to coincide with the start of the Advent season and to get families into the Christmas spirit early. The light art projection, which will be set to music composed by David Harper, will begin on the three great porticos and the continue to flood the Cathedral’s interior.

The art piece has been created by Luxmuralis. Entry to the show is by timed ticket and costs £7.50 an adult, £6 per child or £20 a family. Under 3s are free.

On sale now at www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/angels.aspx

MORE AMAZING EVENTS!

UPCOMING COURSE DATES

Paediatric 11, 12 October 8, 9 November

EFAW

11 & 21 October 8 & 17 November

FAW

17, 18, 19 November

FAWR

3 & 4 February 2022

BOOK NOW

Parachuting teddies!

By popular demand, the One Giant Leap activity session at Peterborough Cathedral is returning Mon–Thur 25–28 October half-term week.

Visit the Star Dome The National Space Centre is bringing its inflatable planetarium to the Peterborough Cathedral to give tours of the night sky on Thur 28 October.

Book tickets online: www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk 20

Defibrillator training available

T: 01733 351 909 E: denise@fenlandfirstaid.co.uk

www.fenlandfirstaid.co.uk

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21

PUZZLE BIRTHDAYS Bradley turned six on the 13 July!

COLOUR ME IN

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ 1. What is Autumn known as in North America?

2. Which English Romantic poet composed "To Autumn" after a walk near Winchester one autumnal evening?

3. Pumpkin fragments dated between 7,000 and 5,500 BC have been found in which country: China, Egypt, Germany or Mexico?

4. Who did Autumn Kelly marry in May 2008?

5. Bonfire Night takes place every November but in which year did Guy Fawkes try to blow up Parliament?

AUTUMN CROSSWORD

'Happy Birthday' Lots of love, Mum, Dad & Oliver.

FIND 5 DIFFERENCES

Find the answers on Term Times Facebook page.

22

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KIP MCGRATH PROMOTION

Some children may not be fulfilling their potential due to the pressures of schoolbased learning. Experts at Kip McGrath Peterborough North tutoring share their insights.

Support for struggling students The road to success is varied and every child’s route is different but sometimes seeking an objective insight into your child’s learning journey can reveal deeper troubles, such as hidden learning difficulties.

“At Kip McGrath we find that some children being brought to us for ‘catch-up’ tuition are struggling to thrive academically in school and are showing many of the warning signs (see panel),” says Gill Terry, owner of Kip McGrath Peterborough North and South tutoring. “The two most common traits are: they take longer to process information, so struggle to keep up with the pace in the classroom as they need time to think; and they find it difficult to store information in

their short-term memory so forget instructions or easily get confused,” she adds.

Many of these children thrive academically when they are taken out of the pressured classroom environment and are allowed to work at their own pace. This is where Kip McGrath’s expert tutoring can make a difference by putting the child at the heart of the learning process.

If this describes your child, please go and talk to your child’s teacher and ask to be referred to the school SENCO. A child diagnosed with slow processing skills and/or poor short-term working memory is usually entitled to extra time in exams. There may also be other help available, such as school-funded tutoring or 1:1 support.

If you would like our help and support with your child’s education, book a free assessment at www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/peterborough-north or www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/peterborough-south

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Is your child struggling with school?

Look out for these warning signs: • Rarely finishes an activity set by the teacher • Puts their hand up straight after the teacher finishes talking to ask what they should be doing next • Takes a long time to ‘settle’ into work • Is easily distracted and likes to stare out of the window or ‘daydream’ • Takes 20 minutes or more to finish an activity that other children may finish in under ten minutes • Rarely puts up their hand in class, even if they know the answer • Seems to be falling behind their peers for no obvious reason • Finds school stressful • Has a 'meltdown' after school

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11+ 2020 RESULTS

11+

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ONLINE LESSONS FOR ALL IN THE UK

2021 ADMISSIONS COMMENCING

COMPUTER SCIENCE (PYTHON, JAVA, C++), ENGLISH, MATHS, SCIENCE & 11+

ST MARY’S EDUCATIONAL ACADEMY LTD. 1-B Almoners Lane, Peterborough PE3 9EH

NOW ST MARY’S EDUCATION CENTRE (Primary) 1 Stewartby Ave, Hampton Vale, Peterborough PE7 8NJ

Contact us on 07735 492 695 or 07854 885 030 or email info@stmarysedu.co.uk 24

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