Gloucestershire Primary Times - February Half Term 2020

Family What’s On Guide

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2 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020

Primary Times Gloucestershire

Contents Dear Reader REGULAR 7. News 8. Theatre 11. The Family Guide 17. Advertising features 19. Corkboard 20. For the Kids 23. Classified

e eatr ThOU CESTERSHIRE GL

The Family Guide

FEATURES 4. Sport Relief 21. Nick Sharratt shares the secrets of illustrating for authors including Jacqueline Wilson and Julia Donaldson 23. What do you think? Give us your feedback

I’m really exci Primary Timested to launch a new chap on the magaz Gloucestershire, having ter for after many yeine as an independent pu taken newspaper gr ars of editing the title forblisher ou a large I will give th p. e m ag az ine a real new on the primar and their co y schools of Gloucester focus m shire You will alre munities. areas of the puady notice a new look in more new feat blication and you can exsome I’m eager to heures in the months to co pect magazine, so ar what you’d like to seeme. on any improvplease give me your feed in the P23 for some ements you’d like to makback e (see survived and suggestions). Primary Tim th es has ri ve d in th families love e a handy what’sdigital age because on refere activities for the kids, that nce, with over six weeks lasts for the environm . And we’re great for en Of course, we’ t (see panel, below). without the sud be unable to do this so if you deci pport of advertisers, services, pleade to use any of their you saw themse let them know Have a great in Primary Times. much look fo half term and I very rward to hear thoughts. ing your

This magazine is great for the climate because:

Mike (publi sales and tesher, editor, aboy)

# We source our paper from sustainably managed forests # The environment needs more trees to soak up CO2 # Sustainable forests for paper are a big part of the climate solution # Unlike daily newspapers, our magazine is useful for at least six weeks # It is easibly recyclable after use and can be turned into new paper

Find your amazing offers inside!

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in Gloucestershire. It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children.

Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Gloucestershire for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or with the relevant contributor. Before entering a competition in this magazine, please see our terms and conditions at primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire/tcs.

Entry into the competition is deemed as acceptance of these conditions. Primary Times currently publishes over two million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout Britain.

Gloucestershire Primary Times Published under franchise from Primary Times Ltd by

Starfish Publishing Ltd

Editorial, design, sales and distribution: Mike Gartside Sub-editor and proof-reading: Tom Phillips All enquiries: Starfish Publishing, Create Centre, Smeaton Road, Spike Island, Bristol BS1 6XN

01452 937123

GLOUCESTER RUGBY - Adult tickets £1 off with code SAMURAI MARTIAL ARTS Extra free trial with Primary Times advert COTSWOLD EDUCATION - 10% Off Mock Test Events COTSWOLD FARM PARK - Use PT voucher for one child free with paying adult COPPID BEACH HOTEL Special offer for Primary Times readers!

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mike.gartside@primarytimes.co.uk Cover image by Tom Cockram/Comic Relief Gloucestershire Primary Times

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020 3

On Your Marks, Get Set… It’s nearly time for Sport Relief! Phoebe Lill, Schools Fundraising Manager for Sport Relief, suggests ten top tips to help schools and families warm up for the event.

Sport Relief – which is coming up from 9–13 March – is a unique opportunity for children to get active, have fun, raise money and change lives.

We’re very aware of all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes for an event like Sport Relief. Whether you’re a parent baking into the wee small hours or a teacher shepherding 30 reception children around the Sport Relief Mile, we’re hugely grateful for your efforts.

Please rest assured that every penny you raise this March will be used to change countless lives, both here in the UK and worldwide. Sport Relief money funds amazing organisations that are tackling some of the most pressing issues of our time, including homelessness, mental health stigma and domestic abuse.

The bonus is that taking part in Sport Relief is a great experience for children. It’s an exciting, memorable day when everyone comes together to make a difference through the power of sport. As well as being great fun, it’s a fantastic opportunity to develop children’s empathy and help them understand that they have the potential to take action and change things for the better.

To Kick Things Off…

You’ll find everything you need at sportrelief.com/schools/primary.

Whether you’re a teacher, parent or pupil, get online and start exploring all the exciting resources on offer!

Top Ten Tips for Sport Relief Success

Keen to take part? Here are our top ten tips to make sure your children’s Sport Relief goes with a bang!

1. Get the date on the calendar. This year the Sport Relief fun and games are set to begin on Monday 9 March, culminating on Friday 13 March with TV programmes on CBBC and the live telethon in the evening.

2.

4 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020 Sport Relief FP.indd 1

Make sure children understand why they’re raising money for Sport Relief. There’s a short film on the Sport Relief website about Cameron, a boy who experienced homelessness and now campaigns to help other children. Talk together about Cameron’s story – check out the learning poster and activities for more information and ideas. Explain that the money you raise for Sport Relief will be used to help people worldwide and in your own community.

Primary Times Gloucestershire

3. Look out for Sport Relief wristbands on sale. Just £1 to buy, there’s no simpler (and cooler!) way for children to show their support and kick-start fundraising. If you’re a teacher, why not sell wristbands in school? With our special offer, you can pay a deposit of £6.50 for a box of 20, then settle up later. (order from: www.sportrelief.com/ wristbands) 4. If your school is organising a Sport Relief healthy snack sale, start preparing tasty treats with the children. You’ll find a range of savoury and sweet recipes on the Sport Relief website – all easy to make and good for you.

5. Children across the country will be making a donation to dress up as their sporting hero or wear sports kit on Friday 13th. To save a last-minute panic on the day, start planning outfits in advance and prepare to accessorise with face paint, wigs, deely boppers, ribbons, cheerleading pom poms, medals…

6. Get creative with the children – there are lots of ideas and templates for things to make on the Sport Relief website. You could make bunting and flags to decorate your home or the classroom and corridors. Or how about using our template for a trainer-shaped money box to add excitement to collecting sponsorship money?

7. This year’s official Sport Relief school song is a catchy number called It’s Game On! Why not learn it with the children, singing along to the video on the Sport Relief website? If you want to take your music-making really seriously, you can download the lyrics and sheet music.

You’ll even find a Makaton translation to get the children communicating through sign and song.

8. The Sport Relief Mile is the perfect excuse for everyone to get in shape together. If your school is planning to run the Mile this year, get your running shoes on and organise training sessions with the children in the run-up to the big event.

9. Help out on the day. If you’re a parent, find out what your school is going to do for Sport Relief and offer your support. Could you help to supervise the Sport Relief mile?

Could you organise a healthy snack sale? Or just shake a bucket at the school gate?

10. At the end of Friday 13th, sit down with friends and family to watch a massive night of entertainment live on the BBC, knowing that together you’ve played an active part in changing people’s lives for the better.

We hope the ideas here have inspired you to join in from 9–13 March and get set now to go, go, go! Have fun and a massive thank you for all your support. We’re excited to have you on the Sport Relief team.

27/01/2020 12:05

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For a complete list of events and to book ckets visit EVERYMANTHEATRE.ORG.UK or call the box office on 01242 572573

27 - 29 JULY

31 JULY - 2 AUG

15 - 16 APRIL Gloucestershire Primary Times

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020 5

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6 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020

Primary Times Gloucestershire

News British Science Week gets with the programme

C

an you imagine being the first person to have discovered Antarctica? Or controlling a jukebox with fruit? These are just some of the activities proposed as part of British Science Week from 6 to 15 March, which runs alongside the primary schools’ programming initiative ComputerXplorers, and is designed to inspire children to get stuck into science.

Celebrating science, technology, engineering and maths, British Science Week 2020 promises over 2,500 events nationwide, ranging from local community activities through to high-profile shows and presentations. The week also offers free activity packs under this year’s theme ‘Our Diverse Planet’, each tailored to a specific age-range and which can be used by parents and teachers alike.

This year’s packs are available to download from the BSW website and include lots of ideas for ways to explore the theme, from biodiversity to cultural and social diversity, to STEM-related subjects and careers. The primary pack incorporates activities including that Antarctica challenge, plus the science affecting people with diverse needs (like those with a disability), and the hidden laws governing taste, camouflage, metals, fungi and invertebrates. You’ll also find details of the British Science Association’s annual poster competition (closing date: Fri 3 Apr).

For teachers and parents keen to involve their children in programming at an early age, the ComputerXplorers’ Programming for Primaries initiative supports BSW by offering free lessons in coding and computing to primary-age pupils and free CPD sessions for primary school teachers. Pupils from Y4 upwards can combine their creative and technical skills by programming their own ‘fruit-controlled jukebox’ and video games, Schools interested in either lessons or CPD sessions can find out more from the ComputerXplorers website.

Ffi: www.britishscienceweek.org, computerexplorers.co.uk

Winners of last year’s

School Gardeners of the Year (both images) .

Calling all gardeners!

D

o you think your school or youth club has the some of the UK’s most talented, passionate and green-fingered young gardeners in its ranks? If so, you might want to enter it into the School Gardeners of the Year competition, run by the Royal Horticultural Society, which rewards activities including growing vegetables for the school canteen or using your garden to fight climate change and attract wildlife.

The competition champions the benefits of school gardening and Gloucestershire teachers or youth leaders have until Friday 20 March to nominate their star gardeners for the awards.

Top prizes include greenhouses, glasshouses, tools, gift vouchers and a visit from Frances Tophill of BBC’s ‘Gardeners’ World’ and will be awarded across three categories: RHS Young Gardener of the Year (for pupils aged 5 to 16), RHS School Gardening Team of the Year and, because the competition is also about celebrating the teachers, staff and volunteers who inspire young people to garden, RHS School Gardening Champion of the Year.

In all three categories, judges will be looking for those who demonstrate a true passion for gardening, have invaluable gardening skills and are making an outstanding contribution

to their school or local community environment.

“School Gardeners of the Year celebrates all that’s great about school gardening, from bringing the curriculum to life to boosting wellbeing and helping young people reconnect with nature,” says the RHS’s Alana Cama.

“We’re also increasingly seeing schools using their gardens to teach young people about sustainability issues and climate change, with access to green spaces shown to encourage more environmentally-friendly behaviours. I would urge all schools and groups who know a gardening hero to get their nominations in.”

The competition is part of the society’s Campaign for School Gardening which now involves more than 40,000 schools across the UK and offers information, lesson plans and advice for schools from the RHS’s education team online. Nominees shortlisted in each of the three competition categories will be asked to produce a short video in support of their entry, with the overall winners announced in June.

Ffi: schoolgardening.rhs.org.uk

Cheltenham celebrates its children

B

One of 2019’s British Science Week projects

BC Radio Gloucestershire presenter Nicky Price and singer Camilla Lewington celebrated the remarkable achievements of Cheltenham’s young people in the town’s first ever No Child Left Behind awards. The awards, organised by Cheltenham Borough Council and designed to address the needs of those growing up in poverty, recognised the work of 12 projects in categories including ‘celebrating childhood’, ‘strong families’, ‘confident girls’, ‘physically active’ and ‘fun and fulfilment’.

The winners were: Cheltenham Borough Home’s #KeepCheltWarm, Youth Mentors and St Pauls ACEs pilot projects; Gloucestershire Constabulary’s Aston Project; Play Gloucestershire’s My Park project; St

Michael’s Cornerstone Trust’s Cornerstone Centre; Move More’s Health & Wellbeing Project; Gloucestershire Animal Welfare Association and Cheltenham Animal Shelter’s Halt Project; Gloucestershire Libraries’ free family events; Cheltenham Town Community Trust’s Men Talk/Girl Talk and The Rock’s activities programme and Make Lunch project.

“I was overwhelmed by the variety of projects and the good work being done in Cheltenham,” said Flo Clucas, Cheltenham Borough Council’s cabinet member for healthy lifestyles. “There is still more that needs to be done and we look forward to the buzz of the evening inspiring many more organisations to get involved with No Child Left Behind.”

Gloucestershire Primary Times

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020 7

Theatre GLOUCESTERSHIRE

BACON THEATRE

Dean Close School, Hatherley Rd, Cheltenham GL51 6EP. 01242 258002, www.bacontheatre. co.uk The Snow Queen Fri 14-Sun 16 Feb, 7pm (Fri-Sat) & 2pm (SatSun), £12/£10 (concs) • Young dancers from Janet Marshall Dance Studios present the enchanting winter story.

Hansel And Gretel Sun 23 Feb, 3pm, £17/£15 (concs)/£8 (under-18)/£5 (under-12) • Hansel and Gretel embark on an adventurous journey into the unknown – but what surprises lie in wait for them in the deep, dark forest? Opera Anywhere present Humperdinks’ fairy-tale opera in a brand-new production sung in English.

Rapunzel Sat 7 Mar, 2pm, £10/£8 (concs) • The family favourite gets a musical makeover from Immersion Theatre that promises a laugh-out-loud script, catchy songs, audience interaction and a host of magical characters.

The Sleeping Beauty Sun 29 Mar, 5pm, £20/£19 (concs)/£15 (child) • Expect beautiful cos-

tumes and stunning choreography as Vienna Festival Ballet tell the archetypal story of the struggle between good and evil in this, their fortieth anniversary production of the classic ballet danced to Tchaikovsky’s muchloved score.

Horrible Histories: The Worst Of Barmy Britain Wed 1 Apr, 1.30pm & 6.30pm, £14/£12 (concs)/£10 (school groups) • The Horrible Histories crew serve up “history with the nasty bits left in” in this hit West End show featuring stories about some of the most famous characters from Britain’s past: Richard the Lionheart, William Wallace, King Charles I, Admiral Nelson, the Duke of Wellington and the Lady of the Lamp are among those revealed as you’ve never seen them before.

CHELTENHAM PLAYHOUSE

47-53 Bath Rd, Cheltenham GL53 7HG. 01242 522852, www. cheltplayhouse.org.uk Whose Show Is It Anyway? Sat 15 Feb, 7.30pm, £8 • Two teams

Scurry along for ratty fun!

Sat 15 to Sun 23 February Make a rat mask, meet real rats in The Rodent Roadshow and search for squeaky stowaways in the Hide & Squeak trail.

For the best ticket prices, book online: ssgreatbritain.org/half-term

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8 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020

Primary Times Gloucestershire

finds herself under suspicion of murder after a young man is found dead in the same railway carriage. Ages 10+.

Jeeves And Wooster In Perfect Nonsense Tue 31 Mar, 7.30pm, £14.50-£20 • Bumbling aristocratic buffoon Bertie Wooster becomes embroiled in a farcical adventure when he decides that he wants to put on a one-man show about some of his recent activities. Will the whole show turn into a disaster or will his faithful sidekick Jeeves save the day?

FURTHER AFIELD The Curious Garden, Cheltenham, Fri 21- Everyman Theatre, Sat 22 Feb

from the Playhouse’s resident improvised comedy group, Comic Sans Script, set about competing for your support in a series of improvised games.

Jekyll & Hyde: A Very Sensible Farce Fri 28 Feb, 7.30pm, £15/£12 (concs)/£10 (school groups) • The Catherstone Risdake Amateur Players are intent on raising money for ever more lavish sets, high-profile actors and a ‘business trip’ to the Bahamas – and set about doing so via their creative retelling of the story of the infamous Dr Jekyll and his alter-ego Mr Hyde. The National Production Company do the honours in what they describe as “a comedy with all the drama left in!”

Easter Workshops Mon 6-Fri 10 Apr, 9am-9.30pm, £tbc • A chance for children aged from 4 to 11 years to indulge their love of singing, dancing and acting.

Experienced tutors from Theatre Studio lead a week of workshops in storytelling, creating characters, movement and song, as well as confidence-building and theatre games – all leading up to a fully costumed final performance on the theatre’s main stage. Email info@theatrestudio. co.uk for more details.

EVERYMAN THEATRE

Regent St, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk The Firebird Sat 15 Feb, 2pm & 4pm, £11.50 • After the legendary Firebird starts stealing apples from the royal orchard, Prince Ivan sets out across the frozen wastes to track down the fabled creature. The Everyman hosts a magical retelling of the classic Russian tale.

The Missing Company Of Sherlock Holmes Sun 16 & Sun 23 Feb, 11am & 2pm, £19/£14 (under-16) • The ever-popular pantomime favourite Tweedy the clown reveals that he’s got even bigger ambitions when he sets out to stage a large-scale production of the adventures of Sherlock Holmes. There’s just one problem: he’s lost all his actors. Together with his friend

Monsieur Loyal, Tweedy sets out to find them all and they finally get to put the show on stage.

The Curious Garden Fri 21Sat 22 Feb, 4pm (Fri), 2pm & 4.30pm (Sat), £9.50/£8 (concs) • When Liam comes across a garden that’s seen better days, he decides to look after it, but as the garden spreads, it transforms a dark, grey city into a lush green paradise. The Makeshift Ensemble tell the New York Times award-winning children’s story about one boy’s quest to create a greener world.

Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em Mon 16-Sat 21 Mar, 7.30pm & 2pm (Thu & Sat), £21-£36 • The hapless Frank Spencer and his long-suffering wife Betty find themselves embroiled in a comedy adventure involving runaway chickens and disastrous rollerskating escapades.

The popular 1970s TV sitcom comes to the stage in this touring production starring Joe Pasquale.

BRISTOL HIPPODROME St. Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www. atgtickets.com/Bristol The Red Shoes Tue 3-Sat 7 Mar, 7.30pm & 2.30pm (Thu & Sat), from £13 • A young girl dreams of becoming a great dancer – but two men stand in her way.

Matthew Bourne’s award-winning adaptation of the legendary Powell/Pressburger film and Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale promises to “dazzle your senses and break your heart”.

Welsh National Opera Wed 11-Sat 14 Mar, times vary – see website, from £13 • The WNO stage three world-famous operas: Bizet’s ‘Carmen’ (Wed & Fri), Mozart’s ‘The Marriage of Figaro’ (Thu) and Verdi’s ‘Les Vêpres Siciliennes’ (Sat).

Pre-performance talks on most

days too – see website.

The King And I Tue 24 Mar-Sat 4 Apr, 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed, Thu & Sat), from £18 • When the King of Siam brings Anna to his country to teach his many wives and children, an unlikely, unexpected relationship develops between them. The Lincoln Center Theater’s production of the classic musical heads out on tour after its sell-out West End run.

BRISTOL OLD VIC King St, Bristol BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic. org.uk Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure For Kids Sat 22-Sun 23 Feb, 1.30pm & 3.30pm (Sat), 11.30am & 2.30pm (Sun), from £13 • Everyone, no matter what their age, can become one of the record-breaking beatboxer’s sidekicks in this show packed with funny sounds, brilliant noises and cool music – all created with just a microphone and your mouth.

Chotto Xenos Fri 28 Feb-Sun 1 Mar, 6pm (Fri-Sat), 2pm (SatSun) & 10am (Sun), from £12 • Sue Buckmaster of Theatre-Rites reimagines the choreography of Akram Khan’s solo dance show ‘Xenos’ for young audiences, exploring often forgotten or untold stories of the colonial soldiers who served in World War One. Ages 8+.

The Three Musketeers: A Comedy Adventure Fri 6-Sun 8 Mar, 7pm (Fri-Sat), 2pm (Sat) & 4pm (Sun), from £15 • Le Navet Bête return with their condensed version of Dumas’ epic story of the hot-headed D’Artagnan’s quest to be a musketeer.

ROSES THEATRE

The Roses, Sun St, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX. 01684 295074, www. rosestheatre.org The Visit Sun 16 Feb, 2.30pm, £5-£7 • The Roses Youth Theatre Company and Young Company join forces to present Friedrich Duerrenmatt’s powerful drama about a wealthy woman who returns to her hometown, bringing with her the offer of a terrible bargain.

Histories Of The Unexpected Tue 18 Feb, 7pm, £13-£15 • What links – amongst many other things – the Titanic, Pompeii and Neolithic cave painting, perfume, electrical experiments and Charles I? Dr Sam Willis (of the BBC’s ‘The Silk Road’ and ‘Invasion!’) joins Professor James Daybell to present an original and exciting take on history and how the most unexpected things are connected by their pasts.

Strangers On A Train Set Wed 26 Feb, 7.30pm, £14.50-£20 • Expect hilarity and multiple train sets as Lipservice Theatre Company tell the story of Irene Sparrow – the inventor of the left-handed crochet hook – who Gloucestershire Primary Times

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020 9

Make time

for Reading

With World Book Day approaching there’s no better time to get back into reading with your child. It can be difficult to find the time to read in busy family life, but there are so many benefits to picking up a book: improving your child’s mental health, igniting your child’s creativity, increasing their reading age and finding a love of learning.

Reading also doesn’t have to be an expense; there will be an excellent selection of ageappropriate books in your local library, in the school library or online. World Book Day are also offering much-loved children’s books for just £1.

Here are some of the reasons to make time for reading.

Make Time For Reading_Nation Edit.indd 1

10 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020

Expand their Vocabulary Even as adults when we read we come across new words, so when children read they will discover additional vocabulary that will progress their reading age.

Reading is great for understanding English; how to pronounce words and speak comprehensively in class or with their friends and family. Start reading with your child at an early age so they develop it as a habit.

It will benefit their development as well as their academic education at school.

Independent learning As a solitary exercise, reading forces children to relax and independently absorb the new knowledge shared within the story. Being able to read proficiently will improve your child’s confidence reading in class and their communication in general whether verbal or written.

Improve their writing Reading broadens a child’s vocabulary, imagination and creativity all of which can be channelled into other outlets such as their own reading and writing. In literacy your child will have to learn spellings and understand the sound and letters in complex words. It will help your child to have learnt words from reading as they can then use them in their Literacy to write a better story.

Primary Times Gloucestershire

Dedicated family time Story-time is popular at bedtime for young children, but as your child grows up it’s important to ensure that dedicated reading time isn’t lost. Reading to or with your child is a great activity that will benefit them and also allow you to spend quality time as a family working your way through a book or series.

Better understanding of the world Books are filled with morals for children to learn, including how to behave with their friends, ways to show kindness to others and to appreciate diversity or difference. The beloved Gruffalo tells children to not judge someone on their appearance, as those first impressions could be wrong. It’s about appreciating our differences and being friends with everyone.

If you’re struggling with where to start, here’s some of our favourites!

• The Shark in the Park by Nick Sharratt • The Mega Magic Hair Swap!

by Rochelle Humes • Madame Badobedah by Sophie Dahl • The Smeds and the Smoos

by Julia Donaldson • My Monster and Me by Nadiya Hussain Find out more about World Book Day at www.worldbookday.com

14/01/2020 16:05

The Family Guide Deadline for Easter listings: FRI 28 FEB (See below)

FEBRUARY UNTIL SUN 23 FEB WHERE THERE IS LIGHT Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College Green, Gloucester GL1 2LX, www. gloucestercathedral.org.uk/ • “Magical” art installation by Squidsoup artists, featuring an immersive sensory experience with lighting and sound, and focusing on the stories of people from various countries now living in Gloucestershire. 10am-5pm (MonFri), 10am-4pm, (Sat), 11.45am2.30pm (Sun) - check website for Tue 11 Feb openings.

UNTIL SUN 23 FEB LIGHT UP CHELTENHAM Central Cheltenham, www. visitcheltenham.com/whats-on/ festivals/light-up-cheltenham • Thirty of Cheltenham’s landmark buildings are illuminated over the first three weeks of February, while visitors can enjoy the view from an observation big wheel.

Guided tours (£12 per person) and special events in outlets like The Ivy and John Lewis and, if you’re lucky, you may see the street entertainment group Spark! in your travels.

UNTIL SUN 23 FEB SPRING INTO FARMING Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, Cheltenham GL54 5FL, www. cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk/ • Amid the excitement of meeting the farm’s new arrivals (the lambs), other activities include rabbit and chick holding and a field-tofork gameshow. 01451 85030, 10.30am-5pm, admission applies.

UNTIL SAT 29 FEB SNOWDROPS TRAIL Rococo Garden, Painswick Rococo Garden, Painswick GL6 6TH, rococogarden.org.uk • A free trail for young explorers. You can also enjoy the maze, the rustic play area, shop and café. Dogs welcome.

01452 813204, 10.30am-5pm, standard admission applies.

Tell us about your events!

Are you a school, a PTA, a charity aimed at or involving children, a parent running a fundraiser, a community fair or festival organiser?

If you’re organising an event in Gloucestershire open to the public and aimed at families with primary-aged children, we would love to list it in this section, free of charge.

Please let us have: 1. EVENT DATE (START AND FINISH IF MORE THAN ONE DAY) 2. EVENT NAME 3. Event venue, 4. postal address including post code, 5. event times (start and finish), 6. price (including if it’s free), 7. website and other contact information for ticket buyers 8.Two or three sentences about your event, what’s great about it, who it’s aimed at and who (if applicable) you’re raising money for.

If you send us print quality photographs, we may be able to use them as well.

MOST IMPORTANTLY please send it to us before our listings deadline which, for the Easter edition (covering dates from Sat 4 Apr - Fri 22 May) is FRIDAY 28 FEBRUARY NEW CONTACTS All contact details for Gloucestershire Primary Times are new.

Please delete any old email addresses and phone numbers you may have and replace them with:

01452 937123 mike.gartside@primarytimes.co.uk

Lambing at Cotswold Farm Park until Sun 19 Apr

UNTIL SUN 8 MAR ENDANGERED AND EXTINCT Museum in the Park, Stroud District (Cowle) Museum, Stroud GL5 4AF, museuminthepark.org.uk • Sculptor Val Hunt creates animals, exotic birds, fish, dinosaurs and species of flora, all nearly or entirely extinct, from throwaway materials including drinks can metal. Open 10am (Tue-Fri), 11am (Sat & Sun) to 4.30pm, admission free.

UNTIL MON 9 MAR WWT SLIMBRIDGE WINTER GALLERY EXHIBITION WWT Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ slimbridge/ • Wildlife-oriented art by Beth Jenkins, Andrew Seaby and Lucy Large. 01453 891900, 9.30am-5pm.

UNTIL MON 30 MAR STONE AGE PEOPLE TRAIL Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX, www. coriniummuseum.org • Little ones can find the hidden Stone Age people dotted about the museum, while older ones can answer the questions relating to the prehistoric past. Find all the hidden figures to claim a small prize. 01285 655611, 10am-5pm, £1.50 per trail.

UNTIL SAT 4 APR CHILDREN’S FREE DROP-IN CRAFTY CUPBOARD Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, gloucester.gov.uk/museum-of-gloucester • Running every Monday to Saturday, the crafty cupboard is stuffed full of raw materials for colouring, crafts, quizzes and trails themed around the museum’s collections. Make something to take home. 10am, free.

UNTIL SUN 19 APR LAMBING Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, Cheltenham GL54 5FL, www. cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk/ • The farm owned by Countryfile presenter Adam Henson reopens with its annual focus on the lambs that arrive in spring. Activities include daily talks about lambing and the flock, as well as access to the lambing shed: finGloucestershire Primary Times

gers crossed you may see a birth yourself! Have a go at bottle feeding lambs and goat kids. Plus farm safari rides and more. 01451 85029, 10.30am5pm, admission applies.

TUE 11-THU 13 FEB CATCH THE TIDE WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org.uk/ wetland-centres/slimbridge/ • Enjoy one of the highest tides of the year on the Severn Estuary as it washes over the Dumbles area of the wetlands and reaches the seawall. View it from the new Estuary Tower Hide where extra guides will be on hand to point out the wildlife being pushed inland by the rising waters. 01453 891900, 8am-12noon (members only between 8-9.30am).

WED 12-FRI 21 FEB HALF-TERM MAKEATHON Prema Arts Centre, Bethesda Chapel, South St, Uley, nr Dursley GL11 5SS, www.prema.org.uk/ • Promises a creative feast with movement and drama led by Kez Benbow, followed by illustration, sculpture and more. Ages 6 to 10.

01453 860703, £100 for the full week or £30 per day.

FRI 14 FEB GLOUCESTER RUGBY VS EXETER CHIEFS Kingsholm Stadium, Kingsholm Rd, Gloucester GL1 3AX, www. gloucesterrugby.co.uk/ • League fixture with Gloucestershire’s topflight rugby team. £25 adult, £10 juniors and under-5s free.

SAT 15 FEB FAMILY STOOL AND MALLET MAKING WORKSHOP National Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS,

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www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt-the-national-arboretum • A half-day family workshop for parents/guardians and a child, sharing the experience of making a mallet and a rustic stool for camping or the garden. Includes materials and wood-fire cooked lunch. Book in advance and wear clothing and footwear suitable for green woodworking. 07855 535717, 10am-2pm or 1pm-5pm, £65 (adult and child).

SAT 15-SUN 23 FEB EXPLORE THE PARROT PANDEMONIUM Birdland Park and Gardens, Rissington Rd, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2BN, www.birdland.co.uk • The newly-completed parrot enclosure hosts no fewer than 16 species, promising a riot of coloured feathers, impressive beaks and razor-sharp bird brains. Take the Birdland Explorer Spotter Trail and solve some (scientific word alert!) psittacine puzzles.

01451 820480, 10am-4pm.

SAT 15-SUN 23 FEB MERMAIDS AND MONSTERS Bristol Aquarium, Anchor Rd, Bristol BS1 5TT, www.bristolaquarium.co.uk • Meet a ‘real’ mermaid every day this half term.

0117 929 8929, 10am-4pm, kids go for £1 (see offer elsewhere in this magazine).

SAT 15-SUN 23 FEB SOUTH WEST PUDDLE JUMPING CHAMPIONSHIPS WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt. org.uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge/ • Get your wellies and waterproofs on and jump into the wetland’s puddles and see if you can become the biggest splasher.

The daily competition takes place at 2pm in Welly Boot Land. 01453 891900, 9.30am-5pm, standard admission applies, free to WWT members.

SAT 15-SUN 23 FEB FEBRUARY HALF-TERM FUN Newark Park, nr. Wotton-under-Edge GL12 7PZ, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/newark-park • Stretch your legs and follow the wintry trail around the garden, tick off one of your ’50 things to do before you’re 11 3/4’ activities or explore the natural play area.

SAT 15-SUN 23 FEB SUDELEY SECRET SPIES Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe GL54 5JD, sudeleycastle.co.uk/ • Complete a trail of puzzles, codes and riddles while exploring the castle and use the items you find to decode seven clues. Learn about hieroglyphics, Morse code, nautical flags and more - and win a surprise at the visitor centre.

10am, admission applies.

SAT 15 FEB-SAT 18 APR LIVES OF COLOUR: I-MMIGRATE Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, gloucester.gov.uk/museum-of-gloucester • Twenty images and oral histories from black and minority 12 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020

ethnic communities from the Windrush generation living in Gloucester and the African diaspora in Cheltenham, telling of their experiences of moving to and living in their new home.

10am-5pm, free but donations welcome.

MON 17 FEB FUN WITH STICKS National Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS, www. forestryengland.uk/ westonbirt-the-national-arboretum • Make charcoal, create winter twig shadow drawings and print with sticks. 10.30am3.30pm, free with admission.

Gloucester Rugby run Tue 18 Feb and Fri 21 s February Half-Term Camps on Mon 17Feb. Also look out for Feb, with a girls only camp on Wed 19 their fixtures throug hout the season

MON 17 FEB FEBRUARY CRAFT DAYS New Brewery Arts, Brewery Court, Cirencester GL7 1JH, www. newbreweryarts.org.uk/ • Roll up your sleeves and get messy with Hannah Ellis in this art workshop exploring paint, collage, printing, 3D modelling, papier-mache and more for children aged 5 to 11.

01285 657181, 10am-3pm, £40 per day.

MON 17-TUE 18 FEB GLOUCESTER RUGBY FEBRUARY HALF-TERM CAMP Sir Thomas Rich’s School, Oakleaze, Gloucester GL2 0LF, bookings.rugbycamps.co.uk • Former Gloucester Rugby and Samoan international Terry Fanolua leads this Gloucester Rugby camp for boys and girls aged 8 to 13, offering the perfect opportunity to get involved with rugby. 9am3.30pm, £60.

MON 17-FRI 21 FEB CAMP 4-2-11 St Edwards School, Cirencester Rd, Cheltenham GL53 8EY, www. booking.camp4211.co.uk • Lots of new activities at this exciting holiday camp, including laser tag, go karts, street dance, earth craft, magic shows and climbing wall. Ofsted registered and will accept childcare vouchers. Aimed at ages 3 to 14. 07825 630751, 8.15am-5.45pm.

MON 17-FRI 21 FEB CAMP 4-2-12 Prestbury St Mary’s Infants School, Cheltenham GL52 5JB, www.booking.camp4211.co.uk • Lots of new activities at this exciting holiday camp, including laser tag, go karts, street dance, earth craft, magic shows and climbing wall. Ofsted registered and will accept childcare vouchers. Aimed at ages 3 to 14. 07825 630751, 8.30am-5.30pm.

MON 17-FRI 21 FEB CAMP 4-2-13 Dinglewell, Hucclecote, Gloucester GL3 3HS, www.booking. camp4211.co.uk • Lots of new activities at this exciting holiday Primary Times Gloucestershire

camp, including laser tag, go karts, street dance, earth craft, magic shows and climbing wall. Ofsted registered and will accept childcare vouchers. Aimed at ages 3 to 14. 07825 630751, 8.30am-5.30pm.

TUE 18 FEB CHEDWORTH’S ROMANS: APPIAN Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, nr Cheltenham GL54 3LJ, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ chedworth-roman-villa • Roman crafts expert Appian demonstrates how the Romans made mosaics, with a large range of tools on display. 10am-3pm, admission applies.

TUE 18 FEB MOSAIC HEARTS Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX, coriniummuseum.org • Workshop with Rebecca Shellenberger for children over 8 (but enquire for younger kids).

Create a mosaic heart, inspired by the season, using colourful, safe glass tiles. All materials and instruction provided. Booking essential. 10.30am-12 noon, £7.25-£8.25.

WED 19 FEB GLOUCESTER RUGBY GIRLS’ FEBRUARY HALF-TERM CAMP Sir Thomas Rich’s School, Oakleaze, Gloucester GL2 0LF, bookings.rugbycamps.co.uk • Girls aged 10 to 18 can join this rugby camp with former Gloucester Rugby and Samoan international Terry Fanolua. £25.

WED 19 FEB REVOLTING ROMANS Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester, GL7 2BX, coriniummuseum.org • Volly Evalds leads this workshop for children aged 6 and over, exploring some of the smelly, sticky things the Romans brought to Britain. Examine a Roman ear scoop, make a Roman snail and, after a short talk on revolting Roman food, make and take home a sponge on a stick. Finish the morning

with a horrible Roman quiz. 10.30am-12pm, £7.25 - £8.25.

WED 19 FEB MAKE YOUR OWN MARIONETTE Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, gloucester.gov.uk/museum-of-gloucester • Caroline McCatty leads this workshop in how to make your very own working puppet for ages 7 to 11.

Free but booking essential.

WED 19 FEB HOLIDAY CRAFT Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum, Clarence St, Cheltenham GL50 3JT, cheltenhammuseum. org.uk • Each holiday session has a different craft process to learn, plus painting or drawing animals and artefacts in the museum collection. 10.30am12.30pm or 12.30pm-2.30pm, £5.

WED 19-FRI 21 FEB HALF-TERM CRAFTS Old Baptist Chapel, Tewkesbury GL20 5RZ, www.johnmooremuseum.org/events/ • Fun arts and crafts activity organised by John Moore Museum. Ages 3+.

10am, £1 per child.

THU 20 FEB CHEDWORTH’S ROMANS: GAIA Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, nr Cheltenham GL54 3LJ, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ chedworth-roman-villa • Gaia is a wealthy Roman lady from the third century who can tell you all about Roman and pagan gods, textile crafts, food, makeup and beauty in Roman times.

10am-2pm, admission applies.

check before yo u travel

SOUTH

WEST

open mornings ntre d Ce 020 n a l t e 2 Feb ge W

3 id un 2 imbr at Sl to S 5 1 at S

#wwtpuddlejumping

Search WWT Slimbridge WWT reg. charity in E & W, no. 1030884 & Scotland, no. SC039410

2 APRIL & 25 JUNE 2020 arrive for 9.00 or 9.30am no need to pre-book See website for details: www.marling.school

Cainscross Road, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 4HE admissions@marling.school 01453 762251

Visit in February to enjoy our famous snowdrops

Free trail to keep young explorers busy!

A garden designed to delight. The perfect place for families to get out in the fresh air and explore together.

MAZE

RUSTIC PLAY AREA

SHOP & CAFÉ

DOGS WELCOME

Open every day 10.30 – 5pm

rococogarden.org.uk Follow us on Registered charity no.1107844

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THU 20 FEB DISCOVERY WITH JAMES FARRER Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, nr Cheltenham GL54 3LJ, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworth-roman-villa • Meet James Farrer, the Victorian antiquarian who ordered the first excavation of the site now known as Chedworth Roman Villa. 10am-3.30pm, free with general admission.

FRI 21 FEB GLOUCESTER RUGBY FEBRUARY HALF-TERM CAMP Prince of Wales Stadium, Tommy Taylors Lane, Cheltenham GL50 4RN, bookings.rugbycamps.co.uk • Former Gloucester Rugby and Samoan international Terry Fanolua leads this Gloucester Rugby camp for boys and girls aged 8 to 13, offering the perfect opportunity to get involved with rugby.

9am-3.30pm, £60.

FRI 21 FEB DOC SAURUS DAY Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, gloucester.gov.uk/museum-of-gloucester • Fossil hunter and dinosaur expert Doc Saurus introduces you to all things dinosaur and fossil.

10am-12 noon & 2-4pm, free.

SAT 22 FEB CHELTENHAM VEGAN FAIR Park Campus, The Park, Cheltenham GL50 2RH, www.veganfairs. co.uk/ • Promises a fantastic line-up of vegan traders and businesses selling everything from delicious food to cruelty-free beauty products. Plus a full programme of talks on veganism, environmental issues and animal rights, as well as friendly, non-confrontational ways for people to explore veganism.

10am-3pm.

TUE 25 FEB SLIMBRIDGE CYGNETS WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge/ • Puddle play for toddlers and pre-schoolers plus a chance to feed the birds. 01453 891116, admission applies plus £2 per child.

WED 26 FEB-WED 1 APR ART EXPLORER AFTER-SCHOOL CLUB Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum, Clarence St, Cheltenham GL50 3JT, cheltenhammuseum. org.uk • Practise a range of fine art skills. Takes place every Wednesday during term time and each week follows a theme. For ages 7 to 12. 3.45-5pm.

THU 27 FEB CHEDWORTH’S ROMANS: APPIAN Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, nr Cheltenham GL54

check before you travel 14 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020

3LJ, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ chedworth-roman-villa • Roman crafts expert Appian demonstrates how the Romans made mosaics, with a large range of tools on display. 10am-3pm, admission applies.

FRI 28 FEB GLOUCESTER RUGBY VS SALE SHARKS Kingsholm Stadium, Kingsholm Rd, Gloucester GL1 3AX, www. gloucesterrugby.co.uk/ • League fixture with Gloucestershire’s topflight rugby team. £25 adult, £10 juniors and under-5s free.

FRI 28 FEB IOLO WILLIAMS WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org.uk/ wetland-centres/slimbridge/ • Television naturalist Iolo Williams discusses his forty favourite wildlife sites from the nature reserves around the country, based on his book ‘Wild Places UK’. 01453 891900, 2pm, admission applies.

SAT 29 FEB A BLOODY BUSINESS - TAXIDERMY IN MUSEUMS Old Baptist Chapel, Tewkesbury GL20 5RZ, www.johnmooremuseum.org/events/ • Organised

by John Moore Museum, curator Simon Lawton explains everything you wanted to know about taxidermy - the art of preserving dead animals - from its history to the “stuffing” process to the problems of pest control. Tickets include entry to the museum and The Merchant’s House. £6 (adults)/£2 (child).

SAT 29 FEB NEEDLE FELT WORKSHOPS National Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS, www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt-the-national-arboretum • Held in the Maple Room - book in advance.

9.30am-12.30pm.

SAT 29 FEB TUNNEL BOOK TALES MYTHS AND LEGENDS Prema Arts Centre, Bethesda Chapel, South St, Uley, nr Dursley GL11 5SS, www.prema.org.uk/ • Hannah Dyson shows you how to create an enchanted world in a folded paper kingdom, maybe a mythical land of giants or something based on your favourite holiday. £18 (one adult and one child).

MARCH WED 4 MAR ART IN THE GALLERIES Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, gloucester.gov.uk/museum-of-gloucester • Have a go at creating art in the museum environment. Open to all levels of artist. 10am-12pm, free.

WED 4 MAR NEEDLE FELT WORKSHOPS National Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS, www.forestPrimary Times Gloucestershire

ryengland.uk/westonbirt-the-national-arboretum • Held in the Maple Room - book in advance.

9.30am-12.30pm.

THU 5 MAR CHEDWORTH’S ROMANS: GAIA Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, nr Cheltenham GL54 3LJ, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ chedworth-roman-villa • Gaia is a wealthy Roman lady from the third century who can tell you all about Roman and pagan gods, textile crafts, food, makeup and beauty in Roman times.

10am-2pm, admission applies.

FRI 6 MAR OPEN AFTERNOONS RECEPTION TO YEAR 2 Wycliffe Prep School, Ryeford Hall, Ebley Rd, Stonehouse GL10 2LD, wycliffe.co.uk • A chance for parents looking for an school whose approach supports their busy family life to look around this school. 01453 820470, 1.30-4pm.

SAT 7 MAR CHEDWORTH’S ROMANS: GAIA Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, nr Cheltenham GL54 3LJ, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ chedworth-roman-villa • Gaia is a wealthy Roman lady from the third century who can tell you all about Roman and pagan gods, textile crafts, food, makeup and beauty in Roman times.

10am-2pm, admission applies.

SAT 7 MAR OBJECT HANDLING DAY Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, gloucester.gov.uk/museum-of-gloucester • Handle some of the hidden objects in the museum’s collection, including replica Roman staffs, shields, swords, sandals and more. 10am-12pm & 2-4pm, free.

SAT 7-SUN 8 MAR ORCHARD STREET MARKET Orchard Square, Gloucester Quays, Gloucester GL1 5SF, www. gloucesterquays.co.uk/events • Billed as “the very finest” in food, drink, art, design and vintage and modern craft from Gloucestershire and the South West, the street food and drink stalls at this monthly market are supplemented by music and performance.

10am-6pm (Sat), 11am-5pm (Sun).

MON 9-FRI 13 MAR SPORT RELIEF Throughout the UK, sportrelief. com • The huge nationwide charity initiative returns with events taking place right across the country to raise money to change lives affected by poverty and injustice in the UK and around the world.

Get sporty and raise life-changing cash. Check the website for details of events throughtout the area, a free fundraising pack and information about how schools can get involved.

TUE 10 MAR SLIMBRIDGE CYGNETS WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge • Puddle play for toddlers and pre-schoolers plus a chance to feed the birds. 01453 891116, admission applies plus £2 per child.

TUE 10-FRI 13 MAR CATCH THE TIDE WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge • Enjoy one of the highest tides of the year on the Severn Estuary as it washes over the Dumbles area of the wetlands and reaches the seawall. View it from the new Estuary Tower Hide where extra guides will be on hand to point out the wildlife being pushed inland by the rising waters. 01453 891900, 8am12noon (members only between 8-9.30am).

parents discusses the Gloucestershire 11+ test. See offer elsewhere in this magazine.

07976 218062, 7-10pm.

check befo re you travel

SAT 14 MAR WILLOW SCULPTURE WORKSHOP National Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS, www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt-the-national-arboretum • Create a willow sculpture in a fun and friendly environment. Materials provided, no experience needed.

07828 245874, 10am-4pm, £85.

Park celebrated Lady’s Day at the end of March as far back as the 17th century. Rediscover some of their activities, including creating dried flower willow wreaths, planting herbs or sampling seasonal cake. 11am-2pm, £1 (herb planting), £3 (wreath), admission applies.

SAT 14 MAR NEEDLE FELT WORKSHOPS National Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS, www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt-the-national-arboretum • Held in the Maple Room - book in advance.

9.30am-12.30pm.

Watch the Severn Bore up close at WWT Slimbridge, Tue 10-Fri 13 Mar

TUE 10-FRI 13 MAR CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Cheltenham GL50 4SH, UK, www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/ cheltenham • One of the UK’s horse racing highlights takes place right here in Gloucestershire, with the world’s racing community gathering in Cheltenham to witness the spectacle of 28 races over four days. Many describe this as a “bucket list” event - something everyone should experience at least once.

0344 579 3003. Tickets from £37.

THU 12 MAR CHEDWORTH’S ROMANS: GAIA Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, nr Cheltenham GL54 3LJ, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ chedworth-roman-villa • Gaia is a wealthy Roman lady from the third century who can tell you all about Roman and pagan gods,

textile crafts, food, make-up and beauty in Roman times. 10am2pm, admission applies.

THU 12 MAR FOREST SCHOOL FOR TOTS Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB, www.batsarb.co.uk • Pre-schoolers can engage with nature and explore the Forest School site , with bug hunting, creating mud pies, storytime and more. Complete with covered area for wet days. 10.30am-12pm, £5 per child, adults free.

FRI 13 MAR PARENTS’ SUPPORT MEETING FOR 11+ Cotswold Education, Contact organiser for venue details, www. cotswoldeducation.co.uk • Qualified, friendly staff lead a well-established learning community of children, parents and education professionals. This meeting for

SAT 14 MAR ANCIENT GAMES Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, gloucester.gov.uk/museum-of-gloucester • Discover ancient games including chess, draughts and nine men’s morris. All welcome.

10am-1pm, free.

SAT 14-SUN 15 MAR PLANTING POTS Lodge Park and Sherborne Estate, Near Cheltenham, GL54 3PP, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ lodge-park-and-sherborne-parkestate • Families can plant seed pots to grow throughout the spring and bring some colour to gardens or windowsills. 11.30am1pm, £1 (child - inc. materials).

TUE 17 MAR WINGS, SKIES AND WATER WORKSHOP WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org.uk/ wetland-centres/slimbridge/ • Workshop run by artist Beth Jenkins about printmaking, lino and wood, all inspired by the natural world. 01453 891900, 10am-4pm, £70 (inc. materials and lunch).

THU 19 MAR MOTHER’S DAY FLORAL DESIGN CLASS Tithe Barn, 19 Cheltenham Rd, Bishops Cleeve, Cheltenham GL52 8GD, littlebluebutterfly. com • Learn to create a beautiful arrangement for Mother’s Day at this evening of floral design hosted by Little Blue Butterfly Designs. 7.30pm, £42.27.

SAT 21 MAR 11+ ASSESSMENT TEST MORNING Cotswold Education, Contact organiser for venue details, www. cotswoldeducation.co.uk • The Gloucestershire 11+ assessment test plus parents question and answer meeting with Cotswold Education. See offer elsewhere in this magazine. 07976 218062, 9.45-11am.

erborne Esat Lodge Park and Sh Lots of fun for kids ng Pots, Sat 14-Sun 15 March tate, including Planti

SAT 21-SUN 22 MAR LADY’S DAY EVENTS Dyrham Park, Near Bath, SN14 8HY, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dyrham-park • While Mother’s Day is a relatively recent invention, the occupants of Dyrham Gloucestershire Primary Times

SUN 22 MAR WILLOW SCULPTURE WORKSHOP National Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS, www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt-the-national-arboretum • Create a willow sculpture in a fun and friendly environment. Materials provided, no experience needed.

07828 245874, 10am-4pm, £85.

SUN 22 MAR MOTHER’S DAY: MOTHER & DAUGHTER (OR FAMILY) Dixie Dot Crafts, 10 Kingsway Centre, Thatcham Ave, Kingsway GL2 2GT, dixiedotcrafts.com/ • Take mum along to do some pottery painting and create some memories. Enquire about price.

MON 23 MAR GLOUCESTER RUGBY VS NORTHAMPTON WANDERERS Kingsholm Stadium, Kingsholm Rd, Gloucester GL1 3AX, www. gloucesterrugby.co.uk/ • League fixture with Gloucestershire’s top-flight rugby team. £25 adult, £10 juniors and under-5s free.

TUE 24 MAR SLIMBRIDGE CYGNETS WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge/ • Puddle play for toddlers and pre-schoolers plus a chance to feed the birds. 01453 891116, admission applies plus £2 per child.

WED 25 MAR BIRDING FOR BEGINNERS WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge/ • Join the centre’s experienced reserve wardens as they visit the bird hides to identify the species, followed by breakfast in the Kingfisher Kitchen. 01453 891900, 8-10.30am, £16.50.

Would you like your Easter event listed here?

Email: mike.gartside@ primarytimes. co.uk

BY FRIDAY 28 FEBRUARY (SEE PAGE 11 FOR FULL DETAILS).

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WED 25 MAR THE CRYPT SCHOOL OPEN DAY The Crypt School, Podsmead Rd, Gloucester GL2 5AE, www.cryptschool.org • Parents and children get a chance to discover the educational approach and facilities at this co-educational selective school.

Booking strongly recommended.

01452 530219, 9.30-11.30am.

FRI 27 MAR FOREST SCHOOL FOR TOTS Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB, www. batsarb.co.uk/ • Pre-schoolers can engage with nature and explore the Forest School site , with bug hunting, creating mud pies, storytime and more. Complete with covered area for wet days. 10.30am-12pm, £5 per child, adults free.

SAT 28 MAR GLOUCESTER RUGBY VS BRISTOL BEARS Kingsholm Stadium, Kingsholm Rd, Gloucester GL1 3AX, www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk/ • League fixture with Gloucestershire’s top-flight rugby team. £25 adult, £10 juniors and under-5s free.

SAT 28 MAR CARDS ON THE TABLE & JERKINS FOR GOALPOSTS Old Baptist Chapel, Tewkesbury

GL20 5RZ, www.johnmooremuseum.org/events/ • Discover the amusements, games and sports of the Tudor and Stuart eras, from illegal gambling to cudgel-play. £6 (adult)/£2 (child).

SUN 29 MAR WESTONBIRT DUATHLON National Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS, www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt-the-national-arboretum • Five hundred runners participate in this popular run, now in its second year, open to seasoned athletes and newcomers alike. Already sold out, but do get along to cheer.

APRIL WED 1 APR-SUN 31 MAY MOSAIC TRAIL Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester, GL7 2BX, coriniummuseum.org • Younger children are invited to find the mosaics hidden around the museum, while older children who find them can answer questions relating to this beautiful Roman craft.

Once complete, children claim their prize. 10am-5pm, £1.50.

THU 2 APR OPEN MORNING Meet ancient Romans Marling School, CainChedworth Roman Vil at scross Rd, Stroud GL5 la this spring.

4HE, www.marling.school • A chance for parents and carers to look round the school on a normal working day.

SAT 4-SUN 19 APR No need to pre-book. admissions@ EASTER DUCK QUEST marling.school, 01453 762251, 9am.

WWT Slimbridge, Bowditch, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org.

THU 2 APR uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge/ • DISCOVERY WITH JAMES A group of ducks have decided to FARRER visit Slimbridge this Easter holiday.

Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, Can your family spot them all? Pick nr Cheltenham GL54 3LJ, www. up an activity sheet and set off on nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworth-roa fun hunt which will take you all man-villa • Meet James Farrer, the around the grounds. Spot them all Victorian antiquarian who ordered and receive a yummy treat on your the first excavation of the site now return. While on the hunt, keep an known as Chedworth Roman Villa. eye out for ducklings, hand-feed 10am-3.30pm, free with general some geese and listen to the daily admission. otter talk. 01453 891900, 9.30am5pm.

SAT 4 APR ORCHARD STREET MARKET SAT 4-SUN 19 APR Orchard Square, Gloucester Quays, EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA Gloucester GL1 5SF, www.gloucesCotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, terquays.co.uk/events • Billed as Cheltenham GL54 5FL, www. “the very finest” in food, drink, art, cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk/ • Skip and design and vintage and modern jump into the spirit of spring with craft from Gloucestershire and the an egg hunt around the park with a South West, the street food and prize for every child. There’s also a drink stalls at this monthly market puppet show for the little ones, free are supplemented by music and face painting and Easter craft. 01451 performance. 10am-6pm (Sat), 11am85031, 10.30am-5pm, admission 5pm (Sun). applies.

Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer

Register now for your

FREE

FUNDRAISING PACK

www.wearahatday.org

Registered charity number 1153487 (England and Wales) SC046840 (Scotland). Company limited by guarantee number 08570737.

16 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020

Primary Times Gloucestershire

News Wicket result for CLIC Y

oung Gloucestershire cricket fans will be able to cheer on the county when the new season starts in April, while also helping the CLIC and Gloucestersh children’s cancer charity ire Cricket team up CLIC Sargent. Gloucestershire Cricket has named the West Country-based charity, for fathers, Mind The which supports children with canChaps, will be at club matches cer and leukaemia, as one of its throughout the season. three official charity partners in “We are so excited to partner a season which marks the club’s with Gloucestershire Cricket 150th anniversary. and are so grateful for the vital As well as promoting awaresupport the club will be providing ness of the emotional, financial CLIC Sargent in 2020,” says the and practical support the charity charity’s associate director, Luke offers to young cancer patients Mallett. “We’re looking forward to and their families, Gloucestergetting involved in some fantastic shire Cricket will raise funds events at the club and in the for CLIC Sargent at a number community this year to raise vital of high-profile events throughfunds for charity whilst celebratout the year. These include the ing 150 years of Gloucestershire Cheltenham Cricket Festival (29 Cricket.”

June-9 July), the England vs.

Gloucestershire Cricket’s ‘150 Australia one-day international at Not Out’ anniversary season Bristol County Ground (16 July), opens on Thursday 2 April with a the club’s Community Day (26 three-day match against univerJuly) and annual fireworks night sity side Cardiff MCCU at Bristol in November. The club will also County Ground. provide facilities for CLIC Sargent at the Bristol County Ground Ffi: www.clicsargent.org.uk or while the charity’s support group gloscricket.co.uk

Prizes galore for writing!

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here are awards and prizes aplenty in February and March for Gloucestershire children and young people who want to develop their writing.

Perhaps the best known of these, the BBC’s popular 500 Words competition is open to all children aged between 5 and 13, no matter what their age, ability and background. The deadline is Sat 22 Feb, and all you need to submit is an original story up to a maximum of 500 words. The judges this year, who include Charlie Higson, Francesca Simon and HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, are looking for imagination and storytelling skill so you don’t even need to worry about grammar, punctuation or spelling. Be warned, though, it is an extremely popular competition, and has received more than 934,250 stories since it launched in 2011!

If poetry is more your thing, the National Trust has launched a competition for young poets to mark the 250th anniversary of William Wordsworth’s birth.

There are two age categories (12 and under or 13 to 18) and entrants are invited to submit an original poem of up to 40 lines inspired by the natural world.

These will be judged by poets

Helen Mort and Rowan McCabe and the winner will receive a camping weekend for themselves and their family at a NT campsite in the Lake District.

Entries need to be submitted by Mon 24 Feb. The Wicked Young Writer Awards, meanwhile, are open to writers aged from 5 to 25 in five age categories for fiction (5 to 7, 8 to 10, 11 to 14, 15 to 17, 18 to 25 yrs) and a non-fiction category for young people between the ages of 11 and 25. Again there’s no need to worry about grammar and punctuation, but judges will be looking at originality, narrative, descriptive language and characterisation. All winners receive tickets to West End musical ‘Wicked’, while those in the younger categories can also win books for their school library. The school that submits the most entries could win a creative writing experience for all its pupils. The deadline for entries is Mon 2 Mar.

Advertising feature

Hidden wonders Nestling in a beautiful hidden valley in Gloucestershire, Painswick’s Rococo Garden is a fantastic place for families to explore together. Children (and grown-ups!) are encouraged to let their imaginations and feet run wild. Whether navigating the maze, having a pretend tea party in the Hermitage, playing hide and seek in the nooks and crannies, racing up hills or simply playing in the new rustic playground, there’s plenty for energetic explorers of any age. The garden’s rustic play area is situated in a charming stretch of woodland known as the Hidden Hollow.

February is a great time to visit because the garden is home to one of the largest collections of snowdrops in the country. The wonderful display forms an unforgettable carpet of white which has been delighting visitors for generations. It’s certainly a great place to get that perfect family snapshot. This year young explorers can also take part in the Snowdrop Sticker Trail, a mini-adventure around the garden, with jigsaw pieces hidden along the way for children to collect. Best of all, there’s no extra charge to take part.

The garden also offers delicious homemade cakes and freshly ground coffee, not to mention free parking – all of which ensures that a visit to Rococo Garden will be a stress-free and fun day out.

Situated on the B4073 just outside Painswick, the garden is open daily from 10.30am until 5pm.

Ffi: Painswick Rococo Garden Painswick, Gloucestershire GL6 6TH W:www.rococogarden.org.uk

Advertising feature

Wild about wildlife Kick off your February half term with a wild adventure at Wild Place Project. Discover exotic animals from around the world, including giraffes, cheetahs and lemurs, and unleash your own wild side in the beautiful woodlands and natural play areas you can explore.

As well as all that, don’t miss Bear Wood, Wild Place Project’s spectacular immersive experience. Journey back to 8000 BC and wander along raised woodland walkways, watching magnificent bears, wolves, lynxes and wolverines roaming below.

Wild Place is also home to lots of threatened British wildlife, from bats to birds, newts to mice, and from 15 February onwards, you can follow a new fun-filled trail in order to uncover their secret homes and find out more about the amazing creatures living right on your doorstep.

For an extra adrenaline rush there’s Leap of Faith, a high-ropes aerial adventure (additional charge applies). Are you brave enough to take on 15 different climbing challenges and the daring leap itself?

Wild Place Project is just off junction 17 of the M5, near Cribbs Causeway – a 20-minute drive from Bristol city centre – and is open daily from 10am. Book online a day or more in advance and save 10%.

Ffi: Wild Place Blackhorse Hill, Bristol BS10 7TP W: www.wildplace.org.uk

Ffi: www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/ p00rfvk1, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/wordsworth-house-andgarden/features/write-a-poemand-win-a-camping-weekend?, wickedyoungwriterawards.com Gloucestershire Primary Times

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020 17

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Primary Times Gloucestershire

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Underwater wonderland YOU’RE SURE to discover the wonders of the deep when Bristol Aquarium takes you and your family and friends on a spectacular undersea safari. You’ll journey through the waterways of the world and marvel at the thousands of different creatures that call Bristol Aquarium their home, from sharks and stingrays to seahorses and turtles. On top of that, you can also immerse yourself in an ‘urban jungle’ teeming with exotic plants and trees where you’ll even find bananas growing.

An all-weather attraction, Bristol Aquarium is located on the city’s Harbourside and is open daily from 10am. You can get full details and buy discounted tickets on the website.

Ffi: Bristol Aquarium, Anchor Rd, Bristol BS1 5TT T: 0117 929 8929 W: www.bristolaquarium.co.uk

Hats on!

Friday 27 March will again see Gloucestershire and the UK going hat crazy for a good cause.

That’s the date of this year’s Wear A Hat Day and the event promises to be bigger, bolder and indeed hattier than ever.

Brain Tumour Research invites everyone to celebrate its 10th anniversary by planning and hosting hat-themed fundraising events to help find a cure for brain tumours, the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40.

Amazing events at schools across the UK have included a world record attempt for the longest line of hats, millinery-themed fancy dress days, hat-themed cake sales, hat-tastic parties, brilliantly hatty colouring competitions and much, much more.

To take part and find out how everyone can get involved, visit the charity’s website.

Ffi: Wear A Hat Day Fri 27 Mar W: www.wearahatday.org

Supporting parents for 11+ MANY PARENTS’ thoughts are turning to grammar school as a future option for their Year 5 children. Whether you’ve already been through the process with another child or this is the first time, there’s a lot to consider and many questions to ask.

Highly regarded local business Cotswold Education can help you through that process. The Parents Support Meeting in Cheltenham (Fri 13 March) is a great way to get up to speed on the 11+ test and how to apply to grammar school. Experienced Cotswold Education leaders will build your confidence in supporting your child, whether you’re using a tutor or not.

The difficult problem of knowing whether your child has the potential for grammar school is solved by the 11+ Assessment Test Morning (Sat 21 March) and a series of 11+ mock tests throughout the spring and summer.

There is also a six-week course covering maths, English and non-verbal reasoning for children needing to develop 11+ skills.

Ffi: Cotswold Education T: 07976 218062 W: www.cotswoldeducation. co.uk

New theatre tool for kids A NEW teaching resource could (to adapt Shakespeare) see school children race willingly to school to experience some of the best British theatre via a new digital service launched by the National Theatre in London. The National Theatre Collection draws on 10 years of live broadcasts from the theatre company as well as high-quality recordings from its own archive, plus productions from the Young Vic, Donmar Warehouse and Bridge Theatre.

Productions suitable for primary schools include Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘The Winter’s Tale’ which have been adapted for younger audiences. Classics from

Ancient Greek theatre and the 20th century are also among the 30 or more shows available. UK state-funded schools can access the service for free.

“This new service will provide a comprehensive insight into British theatre-making and aims to transform learning in schools, libraries and universities across the globe,” says Lisa Burger, joint chief executive of the National Theatre.

The new service has been made available through Bloomsbury Publishing’s digital library Drama Online and educational technology provider ProQuest.

The National Theatre also stages Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’ for ages 8 to 12 between 30 March and 9 April. School groups qualify for special prices.

Parents and teachers new s, education an d contacts

Promoting road safety AT A time when many local authorities are having to cut the number of road safety officers, children’s safety on the roads is of increasing concern to many parents and teachers. In 2017 alone, 5,838 children aged under 15 were injured in road accidents, with peak times for the number of child pedestrians killed or seriously injured being the school-run hours of 8-9am and 3-4pm. According to The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA), 49% of parents say that their children aged 6-11 have not received any pedestrian safety training in the last year, while 66% think more emphasis should be placed on its importance.

In view of this, ROSPA has made pedestrian safety the key theme of this year’s Family Safety Week (29 Mar-4 Apr) and has made available a range of free resources for parents, teachers and carers wanting to help keep children safe while they’re crossing the road or even just walking on the pavement. These include leaflets about road safety, posters and social media resources for anyone wishing to run a Family Safety Week awareness session in a school, nursery, children’s centre or playgroup, as well as a practical child pedestrian training pack for teachers of children in Years 3 and 4. ROSPA is also reiterating the importance of the simple, but highly effective Green Cross Code.

The campaign is supported by doctor, author and TV presenter Ranj Singh, who says, “With the number of young children being injured and killed on our roads being so high, I believe it’s vital that all children have access to pedestrian training to help them stay safe and enjoy active, healthy lives.”

Ffi: www.rospa.com/Campaigns-Fundraising/Family-Safety-Week

The Winter’s Tale - pic

by Ellie Kurttz

Ffi: nationaltheatre.org.uk

Gloucestershire Primary Times

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020 19

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eFor the kidsf kidsf COMING NEXT ISSUE:

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The new childre n’s art competi tion. Send in your paintings or drawings on th e theme of MY WORLD BO OK DAY CHARA CT ER to Artitude, Starfish Publishing, The Cr ea Spike Island, B te Centre, ristol, BS1 6XN or email a high resolution imag e to mike.gartside@ primarytimes.c o.uk before Monday 2 M ar ch .

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include your name , age, school and address so we ca home n send you the pr ize. See primaryt gloucestershire/tc imes.co.uk/ s for competition terms and conditio ns.

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How to play this mini-sudoko: fill the empty boxes with a number from 1 to 4. Each box, each row and each column contains all four numbers but the same number cannot appear twice in the same box, row or column.

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ACROSS 4 A sphere or globe (3) 6 The level of heat or cold (11) 8 The most important thing (4) 9 Four legged animals people often go riding on (6) 13 Another word for mountain (3) 14 To match up, or to communicate (10) 16 One of children’s favourite activities (7) 18 Rotten, terrible or naughty (3) 20 A preposition indicating place or time (2) 21 Something soapy (3) 22 Simba’s uncle in The Lion King (4) 23 Simple (4) 24 Uncomfortable, embarrassed feeling (7)

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DOWN 1 Digestive organ (7) 2 To turn very fast (4) 3 A type of vase (3) 4 Either ...? (2) 5 Someone who fights a government or a ruler (5) 7 Careful and methodical (8) 10 Unhappy (3) 11 A person who pays for things (7) 12 Extremely (4) 15 A bun or the action of a ball downhill (4) 17 Large country in southern Asia (5) 18 A hairy creature in Star Wars the second part of his name (5) 19 A runner’s speed (4) 21 When you speak you . . . (3)

Answers will appear next issue or on primarytimes.co.uk/gloucestershire, two weeks after publication

20 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020

Primary Times Gloucestershire

Be inspired to illustrate with…

Nick Sharratt Primary Times teams up with renowned illustrator, Nick Sharratt, to show the wonders of stretching a child’s imagination through drawing

Nick Sharratt is the artist behind hundreds of beloved children’s book characters created by authors including Jacqueline Wilson, Julia Donaldson, Jeremy Strong, as well as timeless fairy-tale characters and characters of his own creation – his personal favourites being Timothy Pope and his dad in ‘Shark in the Park’.

As an advocate of creative expression, Nick has always had a passion for drawing.

“I’ve loved making pictures for as long as I can remember. It always felt incredibly natural and enjoyable for me. I was the artist of the class at school, and I was very happy with that role!”

Whether it was for school or a competition he’d found on a box of cereal, Nick took drawing seriously and encourages other children to do the same.

“Young children are brilliant at picture making, but they can quickly become self – conscious about it. I think everyone has the potential to draw. It’s

a brilliant activity to do; it involves all kinds of thought processes, and as with everything, you have to work at it if you want to improve. I used to be a perfectionist and start a drawing, do a few lines, then turn the page and start again. I’d go through a whole pad that way! But I taught myself to complete my pictures and even if the drawing was not quite what I’d expected, it gave me a sense of achievement.”

Starting out as a magazine illustrator, Nick has now illustrated over a hundred books and written more than fifty of his own. But, how does he do it?

“By the time I’ve read the manuscript, I’ve got a clear idea of what the character will look like as it seeps into the story. When I’m working with Jacqueline (Wilson), I just try and create a visual interpretation from Jacky’s description. There will always be mentions of the character’s size, hair, dressing style etc within the story. I spend a lot of time thinking about hairstyles for my

characters, as hair can really reflect the character’s nature.”

Having achieved his childhood aspiration of becoming a professional artist, Nick encourages children to find joy in art too.

“It’s so important to find time for drawing and story-telling at a young age, as more than anything else it’s fun! It’s a fabulous way to stretch your imagination as a child.

“When I used to go into schools it was brilliant to see a classroom with art on the walls. I think it’s good for children to be shown how to draw things by their parents or teachers or via YouTube.

There are lots of videos demonstrating how to draw a character sharing top tips such as starting with the shape of the face. Group drawing activities are also fantastic, where everyone contributes to a picture so it’s a team effort.”

Illustrations in books are a great way to grip the reader and create a memorable story. “When I think of the books I had as a child, the words are a bit hazy but the pictures come back sharply in my memory. Children interact with visual images in a really direct and intense way and it’s amazing to think that my illustrations might be enjoyed like that.”

Nick’s top tip for aspiring artists is simple, keep drawing!

Discover more of Nick’s tips and tricks from his YouTube films and book ‘How to Draw the world of Jacqueline Wilson’ (Random House Children’s Books) and keep up to date with his latest books at www.nicksharratt.com

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Gloucestershire Primary Times

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020 21

THE APRIL MEETING

FREE FAMILY FUN THIS EASTER 15 - 16 APRIL 2020 Cheltenham Racecourse

Appeal to readers:

Please tell us what you think

AS THE new owner of Gloucestershire Primary Times, Starfish Publishing is keen to hear your views about the magazine, to ensure it better meets your needs. If you have any opinions about the writing, design, or subjects covered in this magazine - or you’d like to contribute - our editor, Mike, would love to hear from you.

For example: On a scale of one (low) to 10 (high) 1. How relevant do you think the features are for your school or family?

2. How well written do you think the magazine is?

3. How useful or comprehensive are The Family Guide listings?

4. How useful or comprehensive are the Theatre listings?

5. Are there any events you think we should have covered that aren’t in the magazine? (Please name them).

6. Does the News section reflect your community enough?

7. Is the Kids’ page entertaining enough? Is it too easy or too difficult?

8. How inspiring or colourful is the design? Please point out anything you like or dislike.

9. How readable or eyecatching are the typefaces?

For any of the questions above, please feel free to add any extra comments you think will be helpful. And, if you think we’re doing a good job, it would be nice to hear that, too.

Please email Mike, with “Reader feedback” in the subject line, at mike.gartside@primarytimes.co.uk

Classifieds Get spotted!

Reach nearly 39,500 Gloucestershire readers.

To advertise here, call Mike on 01452 937123

CRAFTS Paint -aPot

•Paint your own ceramics • •Keepsakes • Gifts • •Decopatch Party Room•

5 Cossack Square Nailsworth Stroud GL6 OBD For all your dancewear needs www.paint-a-pot.co.uk •Ballet •Tap •Modern • www.colourdancewear.co.uk •Jazz •Drama

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The Best Hobbies Natural for happier, healthier children that won’t break the bank The many benefits of hobbies include confidence building, physical exercise and bags of stress-busting fun. Childhood hobbies might even grow into lifelong passions or inspire future career paths – who knows where their hobby might lead…

Top tips: Follow their interests – what makes them smile?

Chat often – do they still enjoy the class? Are they making friends?

Try not to force your hobbies on your child

Gardening Cultivate basic gardening skills with potted herbs on a windowsill and branch out into growing tomatoes in hanging baskets – all from affordable packets of seeds. What began as muddy fun in your child’s infant years can blossom into a gardening hobby filled with fresh air, achievement and homegrown healthy food.

Dance

From flossing to ballet, children love to dance! A cast of benefits include staying flexible, and building coordination skills and stamina. Dance can be confidenceboosting and allow for healthy selfexpression. Special clothing might be needed for classes, so ask other parents where to find the best free or affordable dance wear. Events such as Disco Loco, a free family dance at London’s Southbank, are leading a trend in free family dance fun – look out for local events.

world

“Are we happy that our grandchildren may never see an elephant except in a picture book?” – Sir David Attenborough issued this reminder to share a love of wildlife with our children. Birdfeeders or a bee hotel in your garden can be affordable, or visiting a wildflower patch to count insect species costs nothing.

Children can use the WWF’s free app (Seek) to identify the plants and wildlife in front of them.

Download on iOS and Android.

Space NASA’s new Mars rover mission blasts off a year from now for the Red Planet. Children can explore the wonders of the universe for nothing by following the progress of the NASA team online (via live stream - mars.nasa.gov/ mars2020/). Other free ideas include drawing the constellations they can see in a clear winter sky, or reading every space-themed book at your local library!

Gloucestershire Primary Times

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2020 23

live lambing

8th february - 19th april www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk | cheltenham, cl54 5fl

One free child with a paying adult

Valid 8th February - 22nd May 2020 One voucher per transaction, may only be used once. Replications will not be accepted. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers, or with e-tickets.

Must be presented upon admission.

*PT2020*