Gloucestershire Primary Times - Christmas Edition 2022

After two covid-disrupted years we look forward to a relatively normal Christmas and New Year period, albeit one not without its challenges, notably the increased cost of living.

Happily, Gloucestershire’s family organisations are more than rising to these, with a season packed with fun; at the theatre, in our museums and outdoors, with town centre light displays and farm illuminations across the county.

This issue we feature a new occasional recipe column (P15), plus features on the fabulous work of Stagecoach (P4) and the Corinium Museum’s exciting Gladiators exhibition (P6).

I hope Primary Times can help you with your costs, as our new QR corner (below) takes you straight to the booking pages of the services you want and may even offer a

CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE

term

Inspiring, engaging, exciting!

Stagecoach Performing Arts

offers fun, friendly and inclusive classes in singing, dancing and acting for children aged 4 to 18. The school believes in adaptable teaching to suit your child’s individual journey, whether that’s exploring new skills, taking on advanced challenges or building confidence alongside an enthusiastically supportive team of like-minded students and inspirational teachers. Their aim is to nurture and develop young potential, stretching imaginations and building confidence as students and teachers work together to create a school where everyone celebrates being themselves.

Each week Stagecoachers get stuck into dance, drama and singing classes with the creative teachers. In dance, the school develops foundation skills in musical theatre with the youngest age groups,

right up to full blown musical numbers with the upper age groups that include singing and acting, to give an all-round performance that students can be proud of.

Stagecoach is all about working as a team to support one another in creating magical musical theatre as well as encouraging pupils to take big leaps forward in their own classroom journeys.

In singing, children explore different genres, create wonderful sounds with harmonies and choral work, sing solo and have opportunities for ideas and staging too – it’s a real team effort.

And then there’s drama, where Stagecoachers just love being a bit bonkers! They get into character, embrace improvisation exercises, trust one another and relish the outcome. The drama classes are always so full of laughter and smiles as the team let their imagination run wild!

Here’s what some Stagecoach grown-ups had to say about the classes:

“You guys are absolutely  brilliant and go above and beyond. Our girls love Stagecoach and are always buzzing about it afterwards ... thank you for all you do.”

“You guys really have helped [our daughter] with her confidence. Before Stagecoach she

hardly ever spoke out in class at school and now she is confident enough to. We have seen her  improve dramatically  this year”.

Stagecoach holds weekly classes on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during term times in Gloucester, Cheltenham and Cirencester with two-week trials available for new students to find out what the school  is all about.

For 4 to 6 year olds, classes run for one and a half hours each week during  term times. For 6+ year old students there are three-hour sessions with various performance opportunities and projects over the year. Also, the holiday workshops are always a huge  hit, with week-long performing

arts extravaganzas available over the Easter and Summer holidays.

Visit  www.stagecoach.co.uk  to find your nearest school. Check class times and availability before booking a twoweek  trial. Stagecoach can’t wait to welcome you to its fabulous, friendly, and totally fun team!

Stagecoach Gloucestershire Schools are all proud to be Ofsted Registered and able to accept Tax-Free Payments from working parents meaning 20% off your Stagecoach fees! They also accept Childcare Vouchers and have Direct Debit options.

TWO-WEEK TRIALS!

Discover the magic of Stagecoach and book a twoweek trial so your child can get stuck in! Join the school for two sessions of performing arts fun before signing up to be a part of this fabulous team and an official Stagecoacher. The very best way to test out Stagecoach!

4-6yrs ‘Early Stages’ (1.5 hours per week) two-week trial - £25

6yrs+ age groups ‘Main Stages’ (3 hours per week) two-week trial - £50

Weekly classes in dance, singing and drama at Stagecoach Performing Arts build confidence, create wonderful friendships and celebrate each child’s journey towards everything they can be.

The new Stagecoach

starts in January!

County funding secured for primary school building projects

Gloucestershire County Council signed off on almost £25 million spending on schools in the county this November, including the ongoing construction of a brand new school building at Warden Hill Primary School, Cheltenham, scheduled to complete in spring 2023.

The programme is part of a plan to spend £100 million on the county’s schools over about five years to meet the statutory needs of its school-age population, including at primary level, which grew by over 3,000 in the four years up to 2019, to just under 50,000 children.

As well as the £7.5 million being spent at Warden Hill, the council is building a new £650,000 primary special school for up to 60 children across Gloucestershire at the former Severn View Primary School, Stroud.

Heart of the Forest Community Special School, Coleford, is also earmarked for £1.6 million to build dedicated support facilities

for primary-aged children with special needs, dependent on planning permission.

The overall programme has already delivered new primary facilities for the county including the £6.5 million Hunts Grove Primary Academy (pictured), which opened in 2019, while other projects underway or completed include new classrooms and hall at Fairford Church of England Primary.

Philip Robinson, Gloucestershire County Council’s cabinet minister for education says, “We want to make sure that young people have access to great education, close to their home, with the best possible facilities, and this investment helps us deliver exactly that.”

Schools wishing to bring Roman history to life for pupils can book their classes into the Corinium Museum, Cirencester, for a Gladiator School Workshop, aimed at KS2 children.

For a limited time only, ‘Gladiator School’ is available for classes of up to 32 children. A professional re-enactor recreates a day at the Roman amphitheatre, featuring, gladiator training (with foam weapons), entering the arena, animal hunts and winning freedom. Pupils learn battle tactics, like Roman gladiators. This is

a 45-minute interactive show with questions and artefact demonstrations.

Corinium Museum coriniummuseum.org

Online safety

Safer Internet Day is back on Tue 7 Feb on the theme of "Want to talk about it? Making Space for Conversations about Life Online."

https://saferinternet.org.uk/safer-in

Pupils applying for grammar schools in Gloucestershire will sit a different kind of 11+ exam next September, following a decision by examination provider CEM to switch purely to online testing. Schools continuing to assess children using a paper exam are likely to use a test by another provider, GL Assessment, which may require children to carry out slightly different preparation, including for 11+ mock exams.

According to Ian Todd of

11+ specialist Cotswold Education, “Gloucestershire tutors will have to change what they are tutoring. There are no comparable past exam papers, so we’re creating new papers in the format GL will use.” One difference, he says, are that the new papers will not have separately timed sections so pupils will have to manage their time during the exam themselves.

“Gloucestershire families applying for grammar schools need to know this,” he adds.

Fighting for their lives?

Following the extraordinary discovery of 80 Roman burials outside York, the latest exhibition at Corinium Museum in Cirencester explores the remains of people who may have been gladiators.

Using the latest research, the exhibition attempts to uncover more about who these people were, where they came from and how they died, questioning whether they were criminals, soldiers, slaves or gladiators. Visitors can get up close to the fascinating discoveries and assess the evidence for themselves through a range of audiovisual material, including facial reconstructions, CT scans and interviews.

The Roman period is brought to life at the museum through unique archaeological finds, displayed alongside replica helmets and weapons. Families

can explore the Roman galleries, complete with associated activities and games.

throughout the galleries include activities such as colouring-in and dressing-up.

According to Sarah Maltby, director of attractions at the Jorvik Group in York which is touring the display, “The Gladiators exhibition uncov-

ers the stories of these men, drawing on historical and archaeological evidence to help us understand who they were, where they came from as well as how they came to die in the dynamic Roman town of Eboracum.”

Gladiator Re-enactment Days

Gladiator re-enactments

Gladiator school workshops

Filmed British Sign Language tour of the exhibition Talks, tours, & trails

Activities for children & families

The ‘Gladiators: A Cemetery of Secrets’ exhibition contains skeletal remains from the Driffield Terrace excavation in York, where the majority of the skeletons had been decapitated and suffered injuries prior to death. Archaeological opinion varies on whether the men were soldiers, criminals, slaves or gladiators. Up to six full skeletons are displayed in the exhibition alongside wall panels, object labels and audio-visual material interpreting the finds. The unique aspects of the skeletons, such as the presence of an animal bite on a pelvis and the leg irons found around the ankles of one individual, are analysed and wider themes including migration and burial practices are discussed.

The exhibition also includes extra content such as replica helmets, weapons and Roman artefacts from York Archaeological Trust’s collection. The Roman themed interactive displays

The Corinium Museum welcomes live Gladiators on the February half term and Easter holidays 10-4pm

Re-enactment group Legio Secunda Augusta takes over Corinium Museum’s Hare Gallery with their Gladiator shows during the school holidays. With talks and gladiatorial combat suitable for families, the group brings the ‘Gladiators: A Cemetery of Secrets’ exhibition from Jorvik to life. Expect shouting and mayhem as activities that once took place in amphitheatres across the Roman Empire are revived once again.

The group showcases props and combat moves with their interactive show. A gladiator building showcases dozens of artefacts to handle and children have the chance to dress up. Crowd control is overseen by Roman soldiers guarding the galleries and a living history display allows

visitors to learn more about Roman life. Children are invited to search the ‘We Are the Romans’ family trail, created in partnership with Welbeck Publishing and illustrated by World Book Day artist, Allen Fatimaharan with text by author, David Long.

Armed with knowledge of the Roman period and full gladiator kit, the re-enactors invite you to visit the museum to enjoy their theatrical Gladiator shows. Included in admission Dates February

Roman remains discovered in York and now on display at Corinium Museum, Cirencester, may have been those of gladiators living and fighting in Britain.

What to watch out for

BOX OFFICE

THE VERY BEST THEATRE, ARTS AND FILM NEAR YOU

Bacon Theatre

Dean Close School, Hatherley Rd, Cheltenham GL51 6EP, 01242 258002

Fri 24 Feb

Circus Spectacular

Laugh, cheer and gasp as international circus acts perform in this circus variety show complete with big production numbers, magic and a “slosh” style finale. 3pm, £18 (adult)/£16 (concs)/£62 (family).

Barn Theatre

5 Beeches Rd, Cirencester GL7 1BN, 01285 648255

Until Sat 31 Dec

The

From £11.50.

Blackfriars Priory

Ladybellegate St, Gloucester GL1 2HN

Thu 15 Dec

A Christmas Carol

Actor

Cheltenham Playhouse

Dr Watson help a music hall star in distress. Rain or Shine company promises adventure, music and comedy. Ages 6+. 7.30pm, £13 (adult)/£9 (under-15).

Wed 25 Jan-Sat 28 Jan

Cinderella

Cinders has to pull out all the stops to meet the prince who will change her life. Promenade Productions present the classic panto. 7pm (Wed-Fri)/12noon & 4.30pm (Sat), £16 (adult)/£12 (child).

Cheltenham Town Hall

Imperial Sq, Cheltenham GL50 1QA, 0844 576 2210

Fri 23 Dec

The Snowman

Ever-popular Christmas performance of a live soundtrack to timeless festive film ‘The Snowman’. 1.30pm, £10-£30.

Fri 10 Feb

Spirit of the Dance

The successful dance extravaganza celebrates its silver jubilee. 7.30pm, £31.

Everyman Theatre

Regent St, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ, 01242 572573

Until Sat 31 Dec

his amazingly sensitive hooter sniff out the source of the problem? 11am, 2pm & 4.30pm, £8.50.

Tue 21 Feb-Wed 22 Feb

Hey Duggee

Big lovable Duggee the dog and the Squirrels from the hit Cbeebies show take to the stage for the first time in a vibrant interactive production packed with music, puppetry and laughter. 10am, 1pm & 3.30pm, £19-£26.

Thu 23 Feb-Sat 25 Feb

Tweedy’s Musical Mayhem

Tweedy and his pals Mikey and James put on their own show, but while Tweedy wants to show off his clowning, the others want to stage a musical. What could possibly go wrong? 2pm/11am (Fri)/7pm (Sat), £19 (adult)/£10 (under-16).

Fri 24 Feb

Woman Like Me: The Little Mix Show Tribute to the award-winning girl band. 7pm, £17.50.

Kings Theatre

Kingsbarton St, Gloucester GL1 1QX. 01452 300130

Sat 14 Jan

£12.

47-53 Bath Rd, Cheltenham GL53 7HG, 01242 522852

Sat 17-Sat 24 Dec

Chris Mystery and the Mystery of the Missing Christmas Tree

When Jingleton’s Christmas tree goes missing, eight-year-old Chris investigates. 11am & 2.30pm & 6pm selected dates, £14 (adult)/£11 (child)/£45 (family).

Sun 18 Dec

A Christmas Night at the Musicals Ebenezer Nolan seeks the Christmas spirit in this show combining musical theatre and comedy. 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £15 (adult)/£12.50 (child)/£50 (family).

Thu 12 Jan-Sat 14 Jan

Sherlock Holmes and the Music Hall Mystery

The famous detective and his sidekick

The Snow Queen

Best friends Gerda and Kai become embroiled in adventure after a piece of Kai’s heart is lost in the frost and Gerda encounters the world of the Snow Queen. 10am & 11.30am, £10.

Until Sun 8 Jan

Dick Whittington and his Cat Tweedy

Gloucester lad Dick Whittington sets out to find his fortune in London with the help (or otherwise) of his trusty cat Tweedy. The popular panto crew - including Tweedy the clown - serve up this year’s all-singing, all-dancing festive treat. £10-£36 (adult)/£20-£30 (under-16).

Wed 7 Dec-Sat 31 Dec

Lark Rise to Candleford

Growing up in a Cotswold community, Laura dreams of flying her humble home. Hammerpuzzle stage this adaptation of this much-loved tale. 7.15pm & mats Thu & Sat 2.30pm, £13.50 (adult).

Fri 3 Feb

Tales from Acorn Wood

Julia Donaldson and Alex Scheffler’s much-loved book is brought to the stage for the first time in a show full of puppetry and song. 4pm (Fri)/11am & 2pm (Sat), £16-£18.

Sat 18 Feb

The Nosy Little Troll

A horrible smell is making all the trolls deep in the Norwegian woods very unhappy. Can The Nosy Little Troll with

Annie Jr

Orphan Annie has to escape the clutches of Miss Hannigan’s orphanage to find a new home in this fun-packed musical. 2.30pm & 7pm, £10 (adult)/£8 (child).

Fri 3-Sat 4 Feb

Jack and the Beanstalk

The Forest Musical Society present this traditional family pantomime. Expect action and song aplenty as Jack sells the family cow for a handful of beans with unexpected, and gigantic consequences.

7.30pm/2.30pm (mat Sat & Sun), Tickets from £8.

Lydney Town Hall

High St, Lydney, GL15 5DY

Fri 27-Sun 29 Jan

Jack and the Beanstalk

See Kings Theatre (above).

7.30pm/2.30pm (mat Sat & Sun), Tickets from £8.

The Roses Theatre Sun St, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX, 01684 295074

Until Sat 31 Dec

Snow White Expect the classic tale

brought up to date by local playwright Nick Wilkes and Maurice ‘Birds of a Feather’ Gran. (NB some shows adults only). £11-£26.

Sun 19 Feb

Beauty and the Beast

Ballet Theatre UK present this ballet version of the classic tale. 7pm, £18-£20.

Wed 22 Feb

The Bubble Show

Magic, storytelling and, of course, some amazing bubble-blowing feats from actor and Guinness World Record holder The Highland Joker in this interactive bubble extravaganza. Ages 3-12. 2pm, £10-£12.

The Sub Rooms

George St, Stroud GL5 1AE, 01453 796880

Thu 22 Dec-Mon 2 Jan

Cinderella Cinderella escapes her ugly stepsisters and wicked stepmother to go to the ball - but will Prince Charming find her again when he’s only got one slipper to go on? The team behind last year’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ return for another festive family treat. 1pm & 5pm, £15-£22.

Sundial Theatre

Stroud Rd, Cirencester GL7 1XA

Thu 22 Dec

Santa Saves Christmas

Can Santa stop Christmas being cancelled? Honalee Media return with the show where every child gets a present too. 11am & 2pm, £10.50 (adult)/£9.50 (child).

True Adventures of Marian and Robin Hood Robin Hood and Maid Marian join forces to thwart the dastardly plans of the hopeless Sherriff of Nottingham. Suitable for ages 4. Times vary - see website.

Jonathan Goodwin plays author Charles Dickens performing his own most famous festive tale. 7.30pm,

CHRISTMAS AT GLOUCESTER QUAYS

Gloucester Quays, Gloucester Quays, GL1 5SF, www.gloucesterquays.co.uk

Need those last few Christmas presents?

Gloucester Quays has over 90 traders showcasing local crafts, gifts and food.

UNTIL WED 21 DEC

ENCHANTED

CHRISTMAS

Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS, www.forestryenglanduk/westonbirt

The elves are in charge of putting up the lights and things don’t quite go to plan so visitors might need to lend a hand in this world of spectacular illuminations and interactive displays. Open selected evenings from 4-9.30pm and Father Christmas is around to meet and greet on selected dates too. Advanced booking essential for both trail and Santa. £19 (adult)/£17 (concs)/£11 (child).

UNTIL FRI 23 DEC

CHRISTMAS AT CATTLE COUNTRY

Cattle Country Farm Park, Berkeley GL13 9EW, www.cattlecountry.co.uk

Christmas activities including Santa’s grotto, making reindeer food, writing a Christmas list and more. £12 (adults)/£18.50 (ages 4-17)/£16.50 (ages 1-3)/£5 (aged under 1).

UNTIL SAT 24 DEC

CREATIVE WORKSHOP WITH SANTA’S

HEAD ELF

The Wilson, Clarence St, Cheltenham, GL50 3JT, www.cheltenhammuseum. org.uk

Children can create a variety of Christmas crafts in The Wilson’s Santa’s workshop. £13.

SANTA SPECIALS

Dean Forest Railway, Norchard Station, Forest Road, Lydney, Gloucester GL15 4ET, deanforestrailway.co.uk

Your chance to ride behind a real steam engine and visit with Santa and his elves. Plus presents for children and a miniature for adults. Tickets £17 for children over 2 and adults, free for under 2s.

A CRAFTED CHRISTMAS

New Brewery Arts, Brewery Court, Cirencester GL7 1JH, www.newbreweryarts.org.uk

Buy hand-crafted gifts this Christmas and support local makers at this free event.

UNTIL FRI 30 DEC

SPECTACLE OF LIGHT

Sudeley Castle, Winchcombe GL54 5JD, sudeleycastle.co.uk

Sudeley Castle hosts its festive after-dark experience for the seventh year with a light trail around the grounds. Enjoy some seasonal food and cheer on the terrace too. 4.45pm, from £19.20.

UNTIL SAT 31 DEC

FAMILY TRAILS INCLUDING CHRISTMAS AT THE MUSEUM

Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, www.museumofgloucester.co.uk

Trails include: Reggie the Raptor’s Trail Through Time - suitable for all ages. 10am-4pm (11am-3pm Sun). Animal Trail - can you find the peacock, salamander, and the real fish? Follow the Food Trail - discover the museum’s collection by following this food-inspired trail. Christmas at the Musuem - fun-filled family activities this Christmas.

ARCHIE AND THE UNICORN

Clearwell Caves, Clearwell Caves, nr Coleford GL16 8JR, clearwellcaves. com

Follow the adventures of Archie through the caves and meet Father Christmas. Festive stalls and an underground cafe promise lots of treats. Entry every 30 minutes between 1.30pm and 4.30pm. £16 (adults)/ £9 (children, ages 2-12), includes gift.

ENCHANTED LIGHT TRAIL AND FATHER CHRISTMAS

Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, Cheltenham GL54 5FL, cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk

Follow the festive light trail around the farm and see what you discover when you go ‘through the wardrobe’. Father Christmas is on hand although encounters with the big man should be booked in advance. Runs from 4.30pm.

WONDERS OF WETLANDS BIRD DEMOS

Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge Watch a film or interactive live demonstrations hosted by Slimbridge’s specialist team that uncover the science behind wetland conservation. Talks and demos run daily throughout the year at 12.30pm & 2.30pm and sometimes at 10.30am.

FREE MINES AND COAL FACES EXHIBITION

Dean Heritage Centre, Camp Mill, Studley, Forest of Dean GL14 2UB, www. deanheritagecentre.com

Explore the history of mining in the local area through this photographic exhibition.

UNTIL SUN 1 JAN ELF HUNT

Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9AT, www.batsarb.co.uk

Santa’s naughty elves have gone missing in the Arboretum. Find them to win a prize! £3 per child, plus admission fees. Daily, 9.30am-5pm (10am-5pm Sun).

UNTIL SUN 8 JAN

1980S BRITAIN: MONEY CHANGES EVERYTHING EXHIBITION Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, museumofgloucester.co.uk

An exhibition that explores the “bold, brash and contradictory” 1980s.

UNTIL FRI 31 MAR MUSEUM EDUCATION PROGRAMME Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, www. museumofgloucester.co.uk

TELL THEM YOU SAW IT HERE!

Sessions range from 45 minutes to a full day and include object handling and a chance to explore the museum. Suitable for KS1 to 3 and with curriculum links. Activity sessions available for all topics and sessions can be offered as outreach in schools.

UNTIL SUN 23 APR

GLADIATORS: A CEMETERY OF SECRETS Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX, coriniummuseum.org.uk

Exhibition of recent Roman discoveries in York which seem to show evidence of gladiators in Britain. Skeletal remains suggest gladiatorial fighting took place, while the show also displays Roman artefacts, replica helmets, a themed, interactive family area, re-enactments and teaching resources. Open 10am-4pm.

UNTIL FRI 1 SEP

STEP UP FOR CDCH

Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home, Beachmeadow Farm, Elmcote Lane, Cambridge GL2 7AS, cotswoldsdogsandcatshome.org.uk/ step-up-for-cdch/

This animal sanctuary has set the challenge to take one million steps to raise funds for the creatures in its care, through most of next year. Participants can walk, run or cycle, whichever suits them best.

SAT 17-SUN 18 DEC

SANTA CRUISES

The Cotswold Canals Trust, Wallbridge Lock, Wallbridge, Stroud GL5 3JS, cotswoldcanals.org

Santa Cruises on the canal are back!

Cotswold Canals Trust offers boat trips with Santa at Wallbridge Lock in Stroud on the boat Perseverance. Book for 20-25 minute trips, 10am to 4pm, £7 inc. gift for each child.

SAT 17-WED 21 DEC

SANTA’S COMING TO SLIMBRIDGE

Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge Families can meet Santa in his wetland grotto, receive a gift and enjoy a full day out at the wetlands centre, plus lots of other festive activities. Time slots: 10am, 10.30am, 11am, 11.45am, 12.15pm, 1.45pm, 2.15pm, 3pm & 3.30pm. £9.50 per child.

Father Christmas at Dean Heritage Centre, Sat 17-Fri 23 Dec

SAT 17-FRI 23 DEC

FATHER CHRISTMAS

Dean Heritage Centre, Camp Mill, Studley, Forest of Dean GL14 2UB, www.deanheritagecentre.com

Father Christmas pays a visit to the centre’s Forester’s Cottage. 11am-3pm.

PAINSWICK NAUGHTY ELF TRAIL Painswick, Stroud, GL6 6QQ, www. pta-events.co.uk/fotcs

More than 20 cheeky elves are up to all kinds of miscief in window displays around Painswick. Buy the map to help spot the elves and possibly win a £200 John Lewis voucher, thanks to local businesses. Maps £3. Available online.

SUN 18 DEC

ICE PRINCESS FAMLY EXTRAVAGANZA

The Watson Hall, Tewkesbury GL20 5PX

Family Christmas extravaganza by Down the Rabbit Hole Entertainment (DTRH), featuring the Ice Queen and surprise guests in “the ultimate” seasonal celebration. Enjoy afternoon tea and live performances, plus a gift. Dress as your favourite character, princess or superhero. £10 (adults)/£15 (children). Children must be accompanied.

CLIMBING OPEN DAY

The Warehouse Climbing Centre,

Parliament St, Gloucester GL1 1HY, www.the-warehouse.co.uk

Family Open Day for novice and first-time climbers. Includes various 30 mins climbing and caving taster sessions available for ages 5+. No experience needed and all equipment provided. Sessions all day, 9am to 5pm. £15 for two activities or £30 for all-day pass - £5 early booking discount available.

EDIBLE CHRISTMAS GIFTS

Harts Barn Cookery School, Monmouth Rd, Longhop GL17 0QD, hartsbarncookeryschool.co.uk

Make snowflake pretzels, honeycomb bites, spiced nuts, chocolate jazzies and hot chocolate melt sticks that you can give to your friends and family as Christmas gifts. 10.30am-1pm, £40.

MON 19 DEC

MOSAIC BIRD TREE DECORATION WORKSHOP

Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX, coriniummuseum.org.uk

Get inspiration from the museum’s collection of Roman mosaics before creating your own seasonal mini-bird mosaic to hang on your Christmas tree. 10.30-11.30am, £8-£9.

MON 19-WED 21 DEC

STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS

GLOUCESTER CHRISTMAS WORKSHOP

Severn Vale School, School Lane, Quedgeley, Gloucester GL2 4PR, www.stagecoach.co.uk

Three days of “fabulous festive fun” as pupils dance, sing and act their way towards Christmas. 4-6yrs 9am-3pm daily (£90/ siblings £80), 6yrs+ 9.30am-4pm daily (£100/siblings £90). See feature P4. Performance on the last day.

MON 19-SAT 24 DEC

CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM

Over Farm, Over, Gloucester GL2 8DB, www.overfarm.co.uk

Discover Santa’s elves, Christmas trees and barn dances at the farm this festive season. £10 (adults - online)/£12 (adults - door)/£12.50 (children - online)£15 (children - door)/£40 (families - online)/£50 (families - door).

WED 21 DEC

SUN 1 JAN

NEW YEAR’S DAY RACING

Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Cheltenham GL50 4SH, thejockeyclub.co.uk/Cheltenham

Get the New Year off to a flying start with a day of racing with a free family fun zone for club/tattersalls ticketholders. Gates open 10.30am, first race at 12.15pm, last race 3.50pm, from £12, under-18s free.

FRI 6 JAN-SUN 2 APR

STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS GLOUCESTER SPRING TERM

Ribston Hall High School, Stroud Rd, Gloucester GL1 5LE, www. stagecoach.co.uk

Performing arts classes for ages 4-18yrs in dance, singing and drama during term times. 4-6yrs 1.5 hours per week. 6yrs+ three hours per week. Sign up for a two-week trial and start your child’s Stagecoach journey.

SUN 8-TUE 10 JAN

LONGFIELD COMMUNITY HOSPICE CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING

Various Gloucestershire postcodes, GL2 (2,3,4,7), GL3 (4,9), GL4 (0,3,4,5,8), GL5, GL6, GL7 (1,2), GL8 (8), GL10, GL11, GL12, GL13, www. just-helping.org.uk/register-tree Dispose of your tree sustainably, and support this community hospice in Minchinhampton this winter. Trees will be chipped and used locally: an environment-friendly scheme that also supports free hospice care.

THU 12 JAN

NATURE TOTS AT CRICKLEY HILL

Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust - Crickley Hill, Crickley Hill, nr Birdlip, Gloucester GL4 8JY, www. gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk

Pre-school aged children can explore the nature reserve at Crickley Hill and enjoy wildlife-themed activities. Activities take up to 1.5hrs and include a mix of stories, rhymes, trails, craft and sensory play. £5.

NEEDLE FELTED SWAN WORKSHOP

Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge

Make a swan from wool using needle felting. £50 plus standard admission: includes a £5 voucher for use in the

CHRISTMAS COFFEE MORNING Sandford Park Lido, Keynsham

Join the lido team in the café this Christmas

Sun 8-Tue 10 Jan

SAT 14-SUN 15 JAN

WILD WINTER WEEKEND

Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge GL2 7BT, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge

Explore the reserve with expert WWT guides, make crafts and much more. The guided reserve tours, duck decoy demos and commentated wild bird feed are all free with general admission but the needle felt swan workshop is £50 and winter goose ID workshop is £5.

THU 26 JAN

ART IN THE GALLERIES

Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, www. museumofgloucester.co.uk

Join artist Claire Taylor-Jones to explore the museum’s collection. No experience needed; sketching material can be supplied on request. Free but donations accepted.

SAT 28 JAN

FOSTERING INFORMATION EVENT

Stroud Farmers Market, town centre, Cornhill marketplace & surrounding streets, Stroud GL5 2HH.

The county council’s fostering team answers questions about all things related to fostering.

SLOW STITCH SATURDAY

Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, www. museumofgloucester.co.uk

Spend a relaxed couple of hours hand stitching, knitting and crocheting. £5 per person with tea and coffee included.

SAT 28 JAN-SUN 4.JUN

ROYAL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY

EXHIBITION

Museum of Gloucester, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP, www. museumofgloucester.co.uk

Experience the 105 photographic works selected by the Royal Photographic Society from their renowned International Photography Exhibition 163.

THU 9 FEB

LYDNEY FOSTERING STAND

NHS

TUE 21-THU 23 FEB

GLADIATOR RE-ENACTMENT DAYS

Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX, coriniummuseum.org.uk

Re-enactment group Legio Secunda

Augusta takes over a gallery at the museum and brings the Gladiators exhibition to life with talks and (familyfriendly) gladiatorial combat. 10am-4pm.

SAT 11 MAR

CHIPPING CAMPDEN MARKET

Chipping Campden Town Hall, High St, Chipping Campden GL55 6HB. Find out more about the world of fostering, and how a foster parent can change the life of a local child.

WED 22 MAR

OPEN MORNING

The Crypt School, Podsmead Rd, Gloucester GL2 5AE, cryptschool. org/openday

Gloucestershire’s only co-educational grammar school opens its doors to prospective parents. Call 01452 530291 ffi. Timeslots 9.30am and 11.30am.

MON 3-THU 6 APR

STAGECOACH

PERFORMING ARTS

GLOUCESTER EASTER SCHOOL

Ribston Hall High School, Stroud Rd, Gloucester GL1 5LE, www. stagecoach.co.uk

Work together for four days over Easter to create a performance bursting with dance, drama and singing. 4-6yrs 9am3pm daily (£125). 6yrs+ age groups 9.30am-4pm daily (£130). Childcare vouchers and tax-free payments accepted. Every child gets a free Easter School 2023 T-shirt.

WED 12-FRI 14.APR

GLADIATOR RE-ENACTMENT DAYS

Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX, coriniummuseum.org.uk

The re-enactment group Legio Secunda

Augusta takes over a gallery at the museum and brings the Gladiators exhibition to life with talks and (familyfriendly) gladiatorial combat. 10am-4pm.

FRI 28 APR-SUN 16.JUL

STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS

GLOUCESTER SUMMER TERM

Ribston Hall High School, Stroud Rd, Gloucester GL1 5LE, www. stagecoach.co.uk

Performing arts classes for ages 4-18yrs in dance, singing and drama during term times. 4-6yrs 1.5 hours per week. 6yrs+ age groups three hours per week. Sign up for a two-week trial to start your child’s Stagecoach journey.

Bus at Tesco, Lydney Tesco Superstore, High St, Lydney GL15 5DN. An experienced foster carer talks about their experiences with fostering.

CORKBOARD CORKBOARD

Find the

Wrap up warm and take a magical wintery walk through the Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-inMarsh, in search of Santa’s naughty missing elves! Batsford’s Big Elf Hunt runs daily until Sun 1 Jan – a fun way to explore the arboretum with a prize for all participants at the end. Browse the gift shop and garden centre and enjoy lunch or a sweet treat in the recently extended Garden Terrace café. Open daily (except Christmas day), dogs welcome on a short lead.

Batsford Arboretum W: www.batsarb.co.uk

Star attractions

There’s nothing like a visit from a singing princess, a mascot or a superhero to make your party or event extra special and ensure that everyone leaves with a smile on their face. Down the Rabbit Hole Entertainment offers a whole range of instantly recognisable and muchloved characters who’ll sing, dance, entertain and make the day truly memorable. Their experienced handpicked performers all know how to interact with children – even the shy ones – and guarantee that everyone has a good time, no matter what their age. The company brings the entertainment to venues all across Gloucestershire and you can see them in action for yourself when Father Christmas and Buddy the Elf pop up at The Ice Princess Christmas Extravaganza in Tewkesbury on Sun 18 Dec (although you’ll need to be quick – there are only a handful of tickets left).

Down the Rabbit Hole Entertainment W: dtrhentertainment.co.uk

A Twist of Tweedy, Shrek and Winnie

The Everyman Theatre is a beacon of family theatre this season with the uproarious pantomime, ‘Dick Whittington and his Cat Tweedy’ (running until Sun 8 Jan), supplemented by an enchanting version of Hans Christian Anderson’s ‘The Snow Queen’ (until Sat 31 Dec), followed by a raft of classics and exciting new shows.

CBeebies lovers will adore ‘Hey Duggee’ as the lovable dog and his gang take to the stage for the first time (Tue 21-Wed 22 Feb), while Donaldson and Scheffler’s beloved ‘Tales From Acorn Wood’ (Fri 3-Sat 4 Feb) is another first. ‘The Nosy Little Troll’ promises magic for ages 3 to 8 (Sat 18 Feb) while a certain clown is back with ‘Tweedy’s Musical Mayhem’ (Thu 23-Sat 25 Feb, pictured). Book your seats, too, for more legends on stage with ‘Shrek the Musical’ (Tue 12-Sun 17 Mar) and ‘Winnie The Pooh’ (Thu 31 Aug-Sat 2 Sep), while Michael Rosen’s ‘Unexpected Twist’ (Tue 18-Sat 22 Apr) promises a thought-provoking take on the kids’ classic ‘Oliver Twist’.

Everyman Theatre W: Everymantheatre.org.uk

Jump in to 2023!

Get together with friends and family to celebrate the New Year with an exhilarating day of sport at “the home of jump racing”, Cheltenham Racecourse.

There’s free family entertainment on offer in the course’s Club and Tattersalls enclosures including Christmas unicorns, racehorse inflatables, balloons, face-painting and appearances from Paddington Bear, The Snowman and Snowdog. Plus live music all day.  Spend New Year’s Day at Cheltenham Racecourse.

Gates open 10:30am. First race 12:15pm. Last race 3:50pm Advanced tickets £30 per adult, £25 for groups of 10 or more. Under-18s free

Cheltenham Racecourse Tickets from W: www.thejockeyclub.co.uk

Parents’ and teachers’ news, resources and contacts

Ready for the 11+ Test?

As 2023 begins your thoughts may be turning to grammar school and what you need to prepare, especially with the announcement of a new test format. Cotswold Education’s Free Parents’ Support Meeting on the evening of Tuesday 17 January is a great way to find out more about the new test and get up to speed on the 11+ application process. The leaders are available to answer any questions.

This group of educators provides a learning community of parents, children and educational professionals to support you from registering your child for the 11+ right up until you get your school allocation.

To find out more about Cotswold Education’s programme for this year and to book your place see their website.

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

Meet Santa’s reindeer

This Christmas Primary Times readers can meet Santa’s reindeer on a magical Winter Walking Safari at the Wild Place Project: a perfect seasonal activity to get you in the festive spirit!

The Wild Place Project’s little ‘elves’ give special reindeer talks where children and adults can learn about these fascinating animals while taking a magical photo of their Christmas-inspired stable.

The project in South Gloucestershire is home to beautiful nature trails, where families can follow clues to find safari scenes and collect fascinating animal and conservation facts. Starting off with mulled wine and a mince pie of course!

Also available are festive craft-making sessions.

And, to thank young members and annual pass holders for supporting the conservation charity, they receive reindeer headbands on arrival. Enjoy!

Wild Place Project W: www.wildplace.org.uk

Santa’s Coming to Slimbridge Wetland Centre

Meet Santa at his wetland grotto on Sat 10-Sun 11 and Sat 17-Wed 21 December at Slimbridge, and receive a gift from the man himself. Enjoy a full day out of festive fun in Slimbridge’s wetland wonderland with activities including Christmas crafts, games and making your own wetland scene in the magical iSandbox. Head to the Kingfisher Kitchen for seasonal scrumptious treats. Plus find out more about Sprout the pelican and the other birds of the Living Wetland Theatre with a ‘Brussel Sprout and friends’ festive talk. What does a pelican eat for its Christmas dinner? Head to Slimbridge to find out! Book now via the website!

Teaching kids confidence

Making friends and bringing communities together through karate is the main focus of Samurai Martial Arts (SMA). This year the club celebrates 21 years of teaching karate to the people of Gloucester, Cheltenham and surrounding areas. By combining Japanese etiquette and discipline with the British sense of fair play SMA has helped many members achieve their personal goals.

SMA founder Brian Jarvis runs clubs in Gloucester, Cheltenham, Kingsway, Quedgeley, Tewkesbury and Ross on Wye. The club teaches children of all ages, teens and adults. Long-term practice sees timid pupils grow in self-confidence as their skills improve. Free trial classes are available at all SMA venues. Book with the code PTXMAS for four weeks’ free children’s classes.

Samurai Martial Arts T: 07971 584901 W: www.samurai-martialarts.co.uk

Pots, pirouettes and a poem

Gloucestershire proprietor Claire Hill loves bringing out the creativity in everyone, with not one but two creative outlets in the Stroud area.

Her popular Paint-a-pot was based at a shop in Nailsworth for 20 years before the pandemic hit.

Although closing the shop was unfortunate, she moved forward by turning it into a mobile activity, now doing pop-up events where people can paint on any ceramic items they desire, which are then fired for them to collect.

She describes her other service, Colour Dancewear, using another talent, poetry:

“For all your toe tapping we have shoes, Ballet, tap or jazz - you choose.  Leotards, we’ve lots in stocks, Accessories, tights and even socks.  It’s not just dance, there’s also gymnastics,  Come for a fitting, you’ll look fantastic!”

Paint-a-pot Paint-a-pot.co.uk

Colour dancewear Colourdancewear.co.uk

LONGLEVENS TUITION

Online lessons for Primary Children with Maths & English, Eleven Plus Dyslexia & Dyscalcula.

Mrs Manley, NNEB, BSc (Hons), PGCE.

Lizziemanley44@gmail.com

Advertising feature

Camp

Arguably Gloucestershire’s most loved holiday camp for kids returns next year for every holiday and half term break of 2023 including five weeks in the summer.

Mum of six, Kate Hall, who has run the camps for 12 years, says her aim is to provide parents with “guilt-free” childcare, happy in the knowledge that their children are enjoying the time of their lives. The camp now has settings at St Edward’s Senior School and Balcarras School in Cheltenham, at Dinglewell School in Gloucester and at The Cotswold School, Bourton-on-the-Water.

“I’m so proud of our camp team who come back year after year and make it such a positive and fun experience for the children,” says Kate.

“We cater for children aged 3 to 14 years, in two age groups: 3 to 6 years and 7 to 14 years,

enabling activities to be tailored. We offer everything from drama to junk modelling, from games of rounders to movies and popcorn, treasure hunts, climbing wall, archery, swimming, inflatable fun, science and magic, and circus skills to name a few!”

All staff are DBS checked, trained in safeguarding and paediatric first aid, while the camp accepts childcare vouchers.

Primary Times readers can receive a special discount off any camp by using the code PT15.

Check out the website for timetables and booking.

www.camp4211.co.uk

Annabel Holcombe, 5. Springbank Primary Academy, Cheltenham, wins a voucher for her colourful and spooky picture of Halloween.

Havisha, 9, Kingsholm C of E Primary School, Gloucester, wins a copy of ‘Starboard’ by Nicola Skinner

ACROSS

1 The most famous of the plotters who attempted to blow up King James I in Parliament on 5 November 1605. (3,6) 6 What the symbol @ is short for (2) 8 Capital of Bulgaria (5) 9 “... and behold” OR an abbreviation that teachers put on your class notes meaning learning objective (2)

11 Harmful manmade substances in the environment (9)

roast (4)

20 Duggee’s hippopotamus friend in the popular CBeebies programme (4) 21 The scientific name for the sun (3) 23 Salty water - often seawater (5)

24 French for you (informal) (2)

25 Popular dog’s name (5)

24 Overturning something (8)

DOWN

1 The explosive which 1 Across used in his attempt (9)

2 A loud shout (4)

3 The first name of the Mickey Mouse creator (4)

4 ‘.... Trot’ - the title of Roald Dahl’s last children’s novel (4)

5 You should never start a sentence with this word, but lots of people do (2)

6 Some people worry that this type of computing may one day take over the world (abbreviation) (1,1)

7 & 15 Across - A classic Beatrix Potter tale, set in the capital city of this fair county (6,2, 10)

10 Either a type of moth or someone who you should help cross the road if necessary (3, 4)

12 Welcoming to everybody (9)

13 A common but unpleasant side-effect of a knock to the face or a vigorous sneeze (9)

high

to gloscompetitions@primary times.co.uk by MON 9 JAN Don’t forget to put Petey’s Arty Party in the subject line, include your name, age, school and home address so we can send you the prize. See primarytimes.co.uk/ gloucestershire/tcs for competition terms and conditions.

14 Jolson and Pacino are some of the most famous people known by this first name. (2)

15 “... infinity and beyond!” (2)

16 See 7 Down.

17 A romantic word meaning good-bye for a long time (5)

18 The main ingredient of a popular Sunday

14 “Who ... all the sweets?” an angry parent might say (3)

16 Songs with this in the title inlude: ‘Born to be ...’, ‘Stayin’ ...’, ‘Good to be ...’ or simply just ‘...’ (5)

19 What the Sunday roast is, once it’s finished

Recipe

Festive Reindeer Cupcakes

These cute Chocolate Reindeer

Cupcakes are perfect for the festive season and a fun activity to get the kids involved in. They will love creating the cute face of Rudolph and eating the chocolate cupcake even more! The decorations are easily available from most supermarkets.

Ingredients

For the cupcakes: 2 large eggs beaten

130g sugar

130g baking spread

100g self-raising flour

Plus:

A few pretzels for the antlers

Ready-made candy eyes or white chocolate buttons can be used with a spot of buttercream. Red fondant or any suitable red sweeties for the nose.

To bake

Preheat oven to 160C/320F/

Sift in the flour, cocoa powder and splash of milk, mix until combined. Spoon the mixture into the muffin cases and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until well-risen and lightly firm to the touch. Remove the cakes from the tin and set aside to cool on a cooling rack.

While the cakes are baking and cooling, make the buttercream. Beat the butter until pale and fluffy, sift in the icing sugar and cocoa, slowly mix until fully incorporated, then beat again until the buttercream is an even colour. If it seems a little stiff, add

Useful hints

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking. The cupcakes will keep for two to three days in an airtight container. You can also freeze both the cupcakes and the buttercream. Freeze them separately, wrap the cupcakes well in cling film or put them in an airtight container. The

Why not make these delicious seasonal cupcakes with the kids and leave them out for Santa on Christmas Eve?

Gladiators

A Cemetery of Secrets

Corinium Museum Park Street, Cirencester, GL7 2BX coriniummuseum.org

Following the extraordinary discovery of eighty Roman burials outside of York, this exhibition explores the remains of some of these people who may have been gladiators.