Primary Times Berkshire - Easter 2022

63,300 FAMILIES AND HOMES REACHED VIA OUR COUNTY’S PRIMARY SCHOOLS. THE BIGGEST FAMILY MEDIA IN BERKSHIRE!

Spring issue 155 14th March – 15th May 2022

Berkshire

Inside:

www.primarytimes.co.uk

Spring is here!

Fabulous Spring Guides for some EGGtastic days out!

Don’t forget to check out our unique listings full of fun and entertainment!

much more than a trampoline park

Spring into Easter!

ninja warrior tumble track wipeout zone foam pits giant airbag party rooms reaction wall & much more!

Come & explore RedKangaroo’s 36,000 square feet of jumping fun this Easter!

Get your

Free

Meal Deal T&CS apply

Read inside to find out what's going on at Redkangaroo this Spring.

Berkshire’s only what’s on and where to go guide covering the whole county …

READING • NEWBURY • BRACKNELL • WINDSOR • MAIDENHEAD • WOKINGHAM • SLOUGH and every town and village in between!

VISIT NEWBURY PRESENTS

EASTER IN NEWBURY

EasterFest Join Alice, Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts & the Easter Bunny for this 3-day Wonderland-themed extravaganza with meet & greets, musical performances, staged live music, street entertainment, stalls, food & much more!

15th - 17th April, 10am - 8pm Fri & Sat , 10am - 5pm Sun | free | NEWBURY TOWN CENTRE, RG14

Easter Egg Hunt Find the Easter Eggs, colour & complete the trail sheet as you go! Prizes to be won, all proceeds go to Swings & Smiles charity.

9th - 24th April | NEWBURY TOWN CENTRE, RG14

find out more: VISITNEWBURY.ORG.UK/EVENTS

@VisitNewbury

Berkshire

Published by Moonscape Media Ltd Tel: 0118 972 4980 Email: office@primarytimesmag.com Editor: Michelle Dilger Production: Tristan Kayes Advertising: Niki Whitwell Suzanne Mason Listings Editor: Suzanne Watson Features Editor: Helen Chitham

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in Berkshire. 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 Berkshire 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. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout the UK. Primary Times Berkshire is operated under franchise licence.

Welcome Readers!

What’s Inside

With daffodils popping up, we can bid farewell to the gloomy skies of winter and look forward to longer, warmer days for sunnier times ahead – in more ways than one!

This issue is packed with unmissable family activities right on your doorstep, ripe for some Easter exploration and guaranteed to put a spring in your step! Entertaining children needn’t be expensive either as there are so many brilliant places to visit which are low cost, or even free. It’s wonderful to see that the events calendar is back – check out the huge variety of things to do on our days out and diary pages, catering for toddlers through to teens – with the best museums, family attractions and play areas to explore. It’s time to make the most of our freedom and let your children enjoy being sociable once more!

So, whether you keep the kids sweet by relaxing at home, or head out for outdoor adventures, we wish you all a fun and happy break. We’ll see you all again before the May Half Term.

N issueext 16th out May

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Spring Events

12 Spring Activities 18

Education Watch

23 What’s on When 30 Box Office 30 Competition

For Advertisers We are the largest free magazine in Berkshire reaching over 158,250 family readers, per issue. If you’d like to advertise directly to this audience please call 0118 972 4980

AC T I O N PAC K E D Q UA L I T Y TIME S P R I N G FA M I LY R AC E DAY S U N DAY 2 7 T H M A R C H Tickets from £26 | Under 18s Go Free Fine Dining from £139 + VAT | Book now at ascot.com

Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/berkshire for thousands more great days out

SPRING ISSUE 2022

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Notices and News updates for parents and teachers

Join in the fun on the Colour Run! First Days Children’s Charity are very excited to be hosting their first Colour Run on Sunday 24th April, with a 2pm start at Prospect Park, Reading. First Days is a Wokingham-based charity working and campaigning to end child poverty. Sadly, there are 5390 children in Wokingham living in poverty. At First Days they give choice, restore dignity, and empower families who are living with a low income or are experiencing financial hardship. The Colour Run is set to be a fun afternoon for the whole family! It is not a race – you can walk, run, or dance your way around the 2.5km course – once or twice! There will be four colour stations around the course where you will emerge a different colour to the one you started with the help of their “colour ninjas”! Phantom Brewery will be onsite with a coloured beer as well as coloured Unholy Donuts! W: www.firstdays.net

Time to move away from the hustle and bustle of urban living?

We’d be willing to bet that when anyone casts their mind back over the last few years, it wouldn’t be the positive things that initially spring to mind. Nevertheless, that doesn’t mean there haven’t been any changes for the better! Gone are the days of having to spend eight hours, five days a week in the office – not to mention the early morning commutes! Being close to the office is no longer the number one priority when looking for a new home and that opens up so many doors for a great rural escape. If you’ve been dreaming of a less urban life, now is the time to make the leap! Starting at just £350,000 and set in serene locations across Thames Valley, Bovis Homes’ new developments are ideal for balancing modern family life away from the hustle and bustle and this is where you will find them: Emmbrook Place, Wokingham 3-bedroom homes from £480,000 Shinfield Meadows, Shinfield 3 & 4-bedroom homes from £462,000 Hounsome Fields, Basingstoke 2 & 3-bedroom homes from £350,000 Mindenhurst, Deepcut 3 & 4-bedroom homes from £440,000 Bucklers Park, Crowthorne – coming soon!

To find out more, please visit their website.

W: www.bovishomes.co.uk

Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow helps children regain social skills and confidence post lockdown Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow continues to be one of Berkshire’s leading and most established Theatre Schools for children. They have recently set up WIFI in all of their studios so if your child is isolating, they can still access their awardwinning classes in Drama, Dance and Singing at home! Lockdowns have affected children’s wellbeing, social skills, fitness levels and friendships.

Easter Party – Thursday 14th April Currently there is a big focus in their classes in social interaction, motor skills and group work as well as confidence building. Steppin Out covers all aspects of Musical Theatre, Tap, Group singing, private lessons and Commercial and Street styles. To book in for a FREE class this term, call Shelley on T: 07970 034488 or Email: shelley@steppinoutstars.co.uk Alternatively, visit their website and complete an enrolment form. W: www.steppinoutstars.co.uk

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Egg-citing news! The Easter holidays are nearly here, and IKEA Reading is busy spreading Easter joy this spring.

Let the seasonal magic begin when you visit the store for their special Easter Party on Thursday 14th April and have dinner with the Easter Bunny. He will be hopping around and meeting all the children to make sure they are all having an egg-cellent Easter. The event is free, but you will need to reserve your table online prior to the party.

For more information and to book your slot please visit their ‘What’s on in store?’ page at www.ikea.co.uk/Reading

Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/berkshire for thousands more great days out

Find your oasis this spring

2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes from £350,000 Dreaming of a life less urban this year? Then make your great escape to one of our developments below. Set in serene locations and offering modern living for families of all sizes.

Emmbrook Place, Wokingham – 3 bedroom homes from £480,000 Shinfield Meadows, Shinfield – 3 & 4 bedroom homes from £462,000 Hounsome Fields, Basingstoke – 2 & 3 bedroom homes from £350,000 Mindenhurst, Deepcut – 3 & 4 bedroom homes from £440,000 Bucklers Park, Crowthorne - coming soon!

Terms and conditions apply. Interiors may include optional upgrades or extras available at additional cost.

Price and details correct at time of going to print. [69754/February 2022]

For more information please call 0118 217 1582 or search Bovis Homes Thames Valley

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Bedwetting Solutions – changing lives, one dry night at a time Spring is the perfect time to address bedwetting forever. Parents and children alike can feel hopeless and alone dealing with this issue. It doesn’t need to be this way; bedwetting can be easily solved. Mainly a hereditary problem, it can be frustrating to wait up to a year for a hospital referral to be told “Try an Alarm”. Bedwetting Solutions hire out medical grade bedwetting alarms typically having a child dry within 6-8 weeks of use. With the hire they provide a seven day a week support package to guide parents through the process and they have an NHS enuresis nurse on hand in an advisory capacity.

This month we are highlighting the effect bedwetting has on children’s confidence, an example of this is Oliver (name changed) who at 11 has never had a dry night so finds it particularly hard that his two younger siblings have been dry since they were 2/3. This really impacts Oliver’s self-esteem so hopefully this won’t be a problem for long as he has been on our programme for little over a couple of weeks and is experiencing dry nights already.

Keep up the good work Oliver. Please contact us if you have an Oliver we can help.

T: 0118 891 3521 M: 07540 258583 E: support@bedwet.co.uk W: www.bedwet.co.uk

Help prepare your child to do their very best with Susan Daughtrey Education The Berkshire grammar schools are extremely well regarded. Places are offered to pupils who score highly in their 11+ entrance exams. These tests comprise of a selection of topics which vary from school to school and Susan Daughtrey lessons are planned with these topics in mind.

Susan Daughtrey Education has operated extremely successfully in Earley for 6 years. The next 11+ Foundation Course for students in Year 4 starts in April and runs until the Year 5 Preparation Course begins. Creative writing courses are also offered. The courses comprise of weekly tuition during term time and follow a technique-focused approach. For more information, email Fiona at their Earley Centre, Reading. E: fwyeth@sde11plus.com

Could you provide a loving home to help shape a child’s future?

The Family Placement Team are looking for new foster carers to provide a loving and nurturing home for children of all ages, including teenagers and those seeking asylum. Your warmth, patience and resilience could help them reach their full potential during a crucial period of their development and write the next chapter in their lives.

They would like to hear from you, whether you can offer short – or longterm care or even some emergency or respite support within their part of the Local Authority. Their dedicated recruitment social worker is waiting for your call!

West Berkshire Children & Family Services have been recognised as Good by OFSTED. They offer a competitive fostering allowance, dedicated support, and a comprehensive training programme. They would love to hear from potential carers so please get in touch today!

T: 01635 503429 E: fostering@westberks.gov.uk W: www.westberks.gov.uk/fosternow

Reading School: Extending Opportunities through Future Stories Now in its 7th year Reading School’s Future Stories programme continues to work with local primary schools and partner organisations to create a range of educational opportunities for local children.

The backbone of the programme is the weekly maths mentoring sessions, run online by Year 12 students for children in Years 4 and 5 during the school day, to increase confidence, ICT literacy and maths skills.

Other activities such as Summer Activity camps and weekly sporting sessions extend additional opportunities to students and in 2022 Reading School is working with Johnson Matthey to deliver exciting STEM activities available to hundreds of primary school students.

Local primary schools and parents are encouraged to get in touch for more information about our programmes, particularly those who are in receipt of Pupil Premium, are Looked After, or Previously Looked After Children.

E: futurestories@reading-school.co.uk

Kendrick School – Widening Horizons Kendrick School’s Widening Horizons Project aims to work with local primary schools to raise aspirations of local children and raise awareness of Kendrick School.

The project includes providing a familiarisation programme for Year 5 pupil premium, service premium and children in care who live in the school’s designated area and who are interested in taking the admission test. The programme includes access to online familiarisation material, face to face and/or online sessions, and workbooks.

Feedback from last year includes ‘It wasn’t boring and I had fun!’ and ‘It gave my daughter confidence that she could sit the exam because the familiarisation sessions built on her confidence’.

Please come along to one of the Open Day Sessions on 4th, 5th, 6th, 9th or 10th May for more information on Widening Horizons and how to register your child for the familiarisation programme. Booking is essential. Please visit our website for more information.

As part of the Widening Horizons initiative, Kendrick School runs a virtual Homework Club on a Tuesday after school for girls in Years 4 and 5 who meet the Widening Horizons criteria. For more information please email admissions@kendrick.reading.sch.uk

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KENDRICK SCHOOL

READING SCHOOL

LEAD, INSPIRE, MAKE A DIFFERENCE

An outstanding selective state academy for boys aged 11 to 18 (Day and Boarding) Erleigh Road, Reading, Berkshire RG1 5LW 0118 901 5600 www.reading-school.co.uk @ReadingSch Reading School

London Road, Reading RG1 5BN 0118 901 5859 www.kendrick.reading.sch.uk @KendrickSchool

Open Days for Entry into Year 7 in September 2023 Wednesday 4th, Thursday 5th, Friday 6th, Monday 9th and Tuesday 10th May

Wednesday 27th & Thursday 28th April 2022

Kendrick School is a selective girls’ school for girls aged 11-18 and is acknowledged as one of the best state schools in the country.

Reading School is ‘Times Parent Power South East Secondary School of the Year’ and a selective state school for academically able boys. We believe in excellence through intellectual curiosity and creativity. We believe in developing young men of principle, integrity and character who support each other in their quest for excellence. If your son is currently showing potential academically and has a desire to join our community, then please come along to the open evening to find out more.

The Headmaster and Admissions department will give talks throughout the days when further information explaining the entrance test procedure will be given. Booking is required and details can be found on the school website: Open Day. Car parking is not available on the school site.

Please see our website for more details or contact admissions@reading-school.co.uk for further information.

If your daughter is in Year 5 and showing academic potential at her primary school and has an enquiring mind and a love of learning, we invite you to attend one of our Open Day sessions. Please see our website for more information and to a link to book a ticket.

The sessions will take place in either the morning or afternoon and will last approximately 1½ hours. There will be a tour of the school with our students, and a talk by the Headteacher, Ms Kattirtzi and our Student Leader Team. You will also be able to find out more about the admission process.

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. Car parking is not available on the school site. Please see our website for further details or email admissions@kendrick.reading.sch.uk

Admission into Year 7 in September 2023 Admission to Year 7 in September 2023 is by entrance examination. Details of the tests for each school can be found on the individual websites.

A familiarisation booklet will be available on both schools’ websites from mid-March 2022.

Testing will take place on Saturday 17th September 2022 for Kendrick School and on Friday 9th September 2022 for Reading School, and parents will be able to register their child online for the test from 1st May 2022 and no later than midnight on 30th June 2022 for

Reading School and 1st July 2022 for Kendrick School. Parents will receive notification of the test outcome prior to the deadline for completion of the Common Application Form.

In both schools, students who are eligible for the pupil premium or service premium or is a child in care, and living within the schools’ catchment area, will be prioritised for admission and the qualifying score will be lowered by 5 marks for these students.

Both Kendrick School and Reading School

operate a catchment area as part of their respective oversubscription criteria. The address which will be used for consideration for this purpose will be the applicant’s permanent address at 31st August 2022.

For further information on all of the above, please visit the schools’ websites or contact: Kendrick School – Mrs Amanda Emberson-Powney admissions@kendrick.reading.sch.uk Reading School – Miss Caroline Mole admissions@reading-school.co.uk

West Berkshire’s Family Placement Team are seeking new foster carers for children of all ages, but specifically teenagers currently.

If you are warm, patient and resilient, and have a spare room, you could care for a teenager needing love and support during their vital years.

Get in touch today to see if you could #WriteTheNextChapter Phone: 01635 503429 Email@ fostering@westberks.gov.uk Website: westberks.gov.uk/fosternow

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21/02/2022 14:15

Spring Events

Spring Events It’s here – the prospect of longer days and warmer weather – so make sure you have

some top family entertainment in the diary!

There are some excellent events back on

the cards this year, so celebrate the start of the new, more hopeful season ahead and plan an action-packed spring.

15th - 17th April

ENTER A MAGICAL LAND WITH ALICE AND FRIENDS AT NEWBURY’S EASTERFEST! A Wonderland-themed EasterFest comes to Newbury for the first time this Easter, from 10am8pm on Friday 15th and Saturday 16th April, and 10am-5pm on Sunday 17th April. Grab selfies in Wonderland with Alice, Mad Hatter, and the Queen of Hearts, and don’t miss showstopping © OddShoe Photography musical performances!

Listen to the Easter Bunny tell magical tales during story-time and hunt for Easter eggs hidden amongst scattered giant objects such as a life-size chess set and wacky furniture! See street entertainers, live music, and enjoy the sizzling smells from the nearby street food and vibrant market stalls. Plus, participate in a two-week Easter Egg Hunt in Newbury from Saturday 9th – Sunday 24th April, with prizes to be won and all proceedings going to the local Swings & Smiles charity.

W: www.visitnewbury.org.uk/events

Sunday 27th March

TREAT MUM TO A SPRING FAMILY RACEDAY AT ASCOT Ascot’s Spring Family Raceday, on Sunday 27th March, has plenty of delights in store! Fortuitously falling on Mothering Sunday, it’s the perfect opportunity to spend an action-packed afternoon of Jumps racing and familyfriendly activities in the company of your nearest and dearest. Free for under 18s, younger children can explore fun countryside-themed attractions from pony rides, face painting, and petting farms, to dog agility displays, treasure hunts, ferret racing, and more. On course, the final fixture of Ascot’s 2021/22 Jumps season features a varied card including a popular Veterans Chase and a valuable two-mile juvenile hurdle which is bound to keep budding racing fans on the edge of their seats. Tickets from £26.00, with free entry for under 18s. W: www.ascot.com

11th - 18th April

SHREK THE MUSICAL COMES TO SOUTH HILL PARK Everyone’s favourite ogre is back this Easter in South Hill Park’s hilarious stage spectacle, based on the Oscar-winning smash hit film and outrageous Broadway musical. Unlikely hero Shrek, and his wisecracking friend Donkey, lead a cast of fairytale misfits – cast off by tiny terror Lord Farquaad – on an adventure to rescue a feisty princess and find true acceptance. Part romance and part twisted fairy tale, Shrek The Musical is an irreverently fun show with a powerful message for the whole family. With a West End standard musical score, an award-winning creative team and cast of home-grown talent, it’s the must-see show this Easter holiday.

Box Office T: 01344 484123 W: www.southhillpark.org.uk

Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th April

NEWBURY RACECOURSE HOSTS EASTER ACTIVITIES AND ACTION-PACKED RACING FOR FAMILY FUN

12th -14th April

DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE AT THE CORN EXCHANGE NEWBURY Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family. Grab your compass and join their intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus! Suitable for ages 3+, shows take place on: Tue 12 Apr, 1.30pm & 4pm; Wed 13 & Thu 14 Apr, 11am & 2pm. To book tickets visit them online. W: www.cornexchangenew.com

Newbury Racecourse’s action packed 2022 Flat season kicks off over the Easter Weekend on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th April with the Dubai Duty Free Spring Trials meeting. Two days of family fun include the Racing Experience Day on Saturday, where everyone including young racegoers will get a glimpse into the racing world with opportunities to meet and be a Jockey, learn about ownership, book signings, as well as a collection of fun family activities. Then on Sunday 17th April, the Easter fun starts! Get the whole family down to experience storytelling, Easter egg hunts and crafts, a petting zoo and more! Harry the Horse is even joined by his good friend, the Easter Bunny! Tickets are now on sale for all 2022 fixtures.

W: www.newburyracecourse.co.uk

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Spring Events

THEATRE ROYAL WINDSOR PRESENTS THE LITTLE MERMAID JR.!

Journey “under the sea” with Theatre Royal Windsor this Easter as the TRW Easter School presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR.! This is an amateur production featuring some of the finest youth talent direct from within the local community – it’s not to be missed!

Registration is still open for TRW’s Easter School community project – places are open to anyone aged 9 to 18 years old who have a passion for performing or technical theatre.

Contact learning@theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk for further information about how to get involved.

Friday 22nd & Saturday 23rd April

Performances run from Wednesday 20th – Saturday 23rd April for those looking for a family treat this Easter and you can book your show tickets online. W: www.TheatreRoyalWindsor.co.uk

JOIN ALICE AND HER MAGICAL FRIENDS AT THE KENTON THEATRE

14th May - 5th June

DK Productions are back at The Kenton Theatre as we follow Alice and drop down the rabbit hole to a magical place in Wonderland. You would be ‘mad’ to miss it! Expect a fast-paced show with lots of audience interaction, colourful animated scenery, bright costumes and memorable music! Keep your head firmly on your shoulders and stay on the good side of the Queen of Hearts, plus attend a tea party that would make anyone go crazy. Performances at 1pm & 4pm on Friday 22nd & Saturday 23rd April. Visit them online to book for one of the world’s greatest adventures!

W: www.kentontheatre.co.uk

FUN AND MAYHEM AT READING CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL 2022 This year’s festival celebrates its 33rd anniversary with three fun packed weeks of events and activities for children all over the borough. The festival gets off to an action-packed start with Forbury Fiesta on Saturday 14th May, where there will be something for everyone on the day. Reading’s Children’s Festival promises to bring plenty of fun, mayhem and madness. From sport and music workshops to fun days with art and craft sessions, take your pick from the many exciting events taking place at venues across Reading. This year’s festival is celebrating everything biscuit related as they celebrate 200 years of Huntley and Palmers biscuit factory in Reading – so expect a biscuity themed event!

T: 0118 937 2771 or 0118 937 2395 E: events@reading.gov.uk Twitter: @ReadingCFest Facebook: www.facebook.com/ReadingCFest

SPRING TRIALS WEEKEND SATURDAY 16 APRIL RACING EXPERIENCE DAY SUNDAY 17 APRIL EASTER FAMILY DAY BOOK NOW KIDS GO FREE

NEWBURYRACECOURSE.CO.UK 10 SPRING ISSUE 2022

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Theatre Royal Windsor’s 2019 community show, Oliver

20th - 23rd April

Spring Events

s tthhis r! er! ste oinin uus ast JJo Ea is E 4th - 19th April 9th - 24th April

www.wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

SPRING

WITH THE FAMILY Nature Detective’s Trail 8 - 24 April This Easter holiday, solve riddles and puzzles to discover more about the trees, plants and wildlife that live in Windsor Great Park.* Scan to find out more

*£1.50 per trail from The Savill Garden Visitor Centre.

Car park charges apply. Please scan the QR code for further information.

Primary Times Easter 2022.indd 1

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24/02/2022 10:34:16

SPRING ISSUE 2022

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WINDSOR GREAT PARK

Spring Activities

Egg hunts, spring crafts, theatre and outdoor activities – Easter is just around the corner and everyone deserves some fun this holiday! We’ve rounded up the best of the action and family-friendly destinations to keep the young, and the young-at-heart, happily occupied all season long!

Unforgettable days out with your little ones this Spring

Put your sleuthing skills to the test on

Windsor Great Park’s Nature Detective Trail From Friday 8th April to Sunday 24th April, become a Nature Detective this Easter holiday and discover more about the secret life of trees, plants and wildlife that live in Windsor Great Park. Purchase your trail sheet from The Savill Garden Visitor Centre and get hands on solving riddles and puzzles on a route around the Cow Pond to receive a badge prize. Suitable for children aged 5 to 11 years, dogs on leads are welcome and the route is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, but with some uneven track in places. Please check the website for further information and terms and conditions. W: www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk/easter

Spring into action

at Reading Museum with egg-citing

crafts and trails!

From Saturday 9th - Saturday 23rd April, gather the family and head to Reading Museum. You can enjoy Bertie’s Museum Nature Trail where you can discover lots of hidden plant and nature related items around the museum. Help Bertie the Badger find them all! After that, you’ll receive a craft pack so the fun can carry on at home where you can create your fun, spring themed crafts (Families, £2.50 per trail/pack). They are also hosting an Eggy Bingo trail! Find the egg-shaped objects in the museum, and when you’ve found them all, go and collect your prize! Even the youngest visitors can enjoy this trail (Families, £1 per trail). For both trails, and craft pack, please book online via their website. W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

12 SPRING ISSUE 2022

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Wellington Country Park is an award-winning destination for a family day out or overnight stay in the country. Beautifully rural yet easily accessible, each season brings a different experience where your children’s imagination can run free. Say ROAR to a dinosaur, knock on a fairy door and take a Welly Wheels jeep for a spin. Have a ride and play eye spy on the Miniature Railway. Cool down at their Splash Zone or feel like Tarzan and swing through the playgrounds. Climb the Pirate Ship to find the hidden treasure, reach for the sky as you bounce on the Jumping Pillow and play the day away with Mini Golf. Perfect for children up to 8 years old, it’s a wonderful way to spend family time together and make unforgettable memories.

W: www.wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

Immerse yourself in the exciting sights, sounds and smells of a lush tropical rainforest

The Living Rainforest in Berkshire is a lovely attraction that is sure to charm you. The charity run visitor attraction is all-weather and indoors.

There are free ranging animals and birds that make it feel just like a real rainforest! You’ll love watching the sloth and even the armadillo which needs to be in an enclosure, otherwise you may meet it in the car park given how industriously it can dig! You can either rush round and miss things on the way to the playground or take time to educate the kids. With free parking and a great value annual ticket, it’s a fantastic day out for families. W: www.livingrainforest.org

Spring Activities

s

Easter Holiday Fun Mon 11 – Fri 22 April+

Book online Planting activity & bunny hunt + Weekdays only, excludes Bank Holidays

squiresgardencentres.co.uk

bracknell

Swinley Forest

book at goape.co.uk #FindYourAdventure

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SPRING ISSUE 2022

13

Spring Activities

VISIT READING MUSEUM THIS EASTER FOR SOME EGG-CITING CRAFTS AND TRAILS! Saturday 9th - Saturday 23rd April BERTIE'S MUSEUM NATURE TRAIL + CRAFT PACK

There are lots of hidden plant and nature related things around the museum. Help Bertie the Badger to find them all! Then make some fun spring themed crafts at home.

Families, £2.50 per trail/pack (book your trail and craft pack online via our website)

EGGY BINGO TRAIL Find the egg-shaped objects in the museum, when you've found them all, go and collect your prize!

Families, £1 per trail (book your trail online via our website)

www.readingmuseum.org.uk

6 WAYS TO PLAY GOLF THIS SPRING DRIVING RANGE & TOPTRACER

FOOTGOLF

PITCH & PUTT / BIG HOLE GOLF

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Junior Sailing Weeks Multi Activity Sessions Family Taster Sessions Birthday Parties Book & Play Boat Hire Guided Paddles

DINTON PASTURES ACTIVITY CENTRE

JURRASIC ADVENTURE MINI GOLF

LEGENDS CAFÉ & SPORTS BAR

COME AND ENJOY THE FUN AT

www.dinton-pastures.co.uk 0118 934 4424 dintonactivitycentre@wokingham.gov.uk facebook.com/dintonpasturescp

14 SPRING ISSUE 2022

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TEL: 01189795657 Email: info@wokinghamfamilygolf.co.uk Website: www.wokinghamfamilygolf.co.uk Finchampstead Road, Wokingham, RG40 3HG

Spring Activities

Boredom busting school holidays!

There’s something for every 3–11-year-old at the Beehive Holiday Clubs! With themed weeks, their holiday programme is a mix of high energy and calm activities which include sports, arts and crafts, cooking, traditional board games and gaming consoles, outdoor adventures, treasure hunts, den building and even cooking on fire! They also offer exciting experience sessions where children get up close with birds of prey, handle reptiles, learn Street Dance, performing and acting techniques, perfect football skills and even meet a real-life Disney princess! Their days are 8am-6pm with morning (£20), afternoon (£20) and all-day sessions (£36) available.

Block book the week or pick and choose days, the choice is yours. All activities & snacks are included. Book their Easter Club at either Crown Wood Primary School, 4th-14th April OR Nine Mile Ride Primary School, 11th-14th April. W: www.beehiveclub.co.uk

Theatrical half term fun at The Watermill Theatre

Create a play in just five days with Play in a Week when you sign up to The Watermill Theatre near Newbury for half term entertainment! Together you will work towards a Friday afternoon performance for family and friends and it’s suitable for ages 8-16 years. Learn some of your favourite songs and sequences from hit musicals and present them to family and friends at the end of the week in their Musical Afternoon course which is perfect for ages 8-11 years.

Both courses run from Monday 11th April – Thursday 14th April and places cost £80. Book both courses and you can save £20! For more information, contact The Watermill Theatre’s Outreach team.

E: outreach@watermill.org.uk W: www.watermill.org.uk

Relaxation or adventure – you’ll be spoilt for choice

at Dinton Activity Centre!

Dinton Activity Centre re-opens its doors with book and play boat hire on Saturday 9th April for the summer season. Families can cruise around the lake on a pedalo or try something more adventurous like a stand-up paddleboard - but expect a splash! Boat hire is open daily during the school holidays, and every weekend until Autumn. Dinton’s Wild Days are the perfect solution to holiday childcare. Book either a half or full day of adrenaline-filled outdoor activities ranging from kayaking to archery on their exciting programme. Every day offers a different activity choice, and lunch supervision is provided free of charge if you book both morning and afternoon sessions. Online booking is simple, and a sibling discount is automatically applied if you book more than one child for the same session. You can even pay by childcare vouchers. (Ages 8-13 years) T: 0118 934 4424 E: dintonactivitycentre@wokingham.gov.uk W: www.dinton-pastures.co.uk

Funtastic Kids offer exciting, vibrant

Easter Holiday Camps across Berkshire!

Children will enjoy egg-cellent Easter themed activities (including art, games, science and more) as well as a fun-packed sports timetable. Children can choose their preferred activity each session, making every day at Funtastic Kids unique! All camps are led by friendly, nurturing staff, who are committed to giving every child a fulfilling experience. Children booked onto the extended day option (8am – 6pm) will receive a nutritional breakfast and light afternoon tea at no extra cost. Since 2021, Funtastic Kids has participated in the Government’s holiday activities and food programme (HAF).

They’re offering funded places at their Holiday Camps for disadvantaged and vulnerable children again this Easter, ensuring any child can access enriching holiday activities in a safe environment (participating local authorities only). Their locations: Reading, Calcot, Newbury, Binfield, Burghfield, Woodley, Wokingham, Earley, and Finchampstead. W: www.funtastickids.co.uk

Enjoy activities,

shows and creative

adventures at Norden

Farm Centre for the Arts!

Quest Family Fest is a fun packed fortnight of new experiences for children and families this Easter holiday! Including family shows Jack and the Beanstalk, The Amazing Bubble Man and Family Concertini with CBeebies YolanDa Brown. There’s also activity clubs plus daily craft and storytelling. On Friday 15th April, children of all ages and their families can try something new with Explore – a whole day of one-hour workshops. Workshops are £4.50 per person or buy a Pass – four workshops for £16 per person.

There are over 40 workshops to choose from including Circus Skills, Chocolate Making, Drama and Digital Animation! Box Office T: 01628 788997 W: www.nordenfarm.org

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SPRING ISSUE 2022

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Spring Activities

Take an exciting leap of

faith at Go Ape Bracknell!

Make your Easter break unforgettable with five awesome adventures at Go Ape Bracknell.

Mini monkeys (1m+) can get their first taste of the trees and zips on Treetop Adventure.

Treetop Adventure Plus (6+years, 1.2m tall) offers an additional loop of thrills with higher platforms and a solo 100m zipwire. Take on five sites of twisty, wobbly crossings and breath-taking dual Tarzan Swings on Treetop Challenge (10+years, min 1.4m tall). After a unique experience? Discover Swinley Forest on the off-road Forest Segway experience (min 6 stone, max 18.4 stone) or, channel your inner warrior on Axe Throwing (16+years).

W: www.goape.co.uk

Cobbs Play Barn reopens for activities and play this Easter!

You can look forward to a great day out this Easter as the doors reopen at the bespoke, wooden Play Barn at Cobbs Farm Shop. The space is a fun, engaging and educational environment for children and adults alike! With two levels to discover and explore, children can really let their imagination run wild. Join them for lots of Easter activities, including a trail on the farm and an Easter egg decorating class (bookings only). For peace of mind during busy times, you can now book a table in the Play Barn online too! Check out dates and details online.

E: play@cobbsplaybarn.co.uk W: www.cobbsplaybarn.co.uk

Beginner to expert, child to adult, Wokingham Family Golf delivers guaranteed family fun!

Providing 6 ways to play golf, Wokingham Family Golf will bring fun and smiles to the whole family – whether you want to improve your skills, start from scratch or simply have fun! From their modern range and attractive pitch and putt course that includes Big Hole Golf, to the growing trend of FootGolf, Adventure Mini Golf and Top Tracer Range, what better way to spend your weekends, time off and precious family moments? Their Legends Café & Sports Bar is now open too for essential, tasty refreshments! A variety of Parties & Events packages are also available on request. T: 0118 979 5657 W: www.wokinghamfamilygolf.co.uk

Spring is in the air at The Museum of

English Rural Life With free admission, you can pop in for a visit to The Museum of English Rural Life in Reading at any time. Explore the museum or garden with themed trails. Play inside or outdoors with their digital and hands-on interactives in the galleries or fabulous wooden tractor in the garden. Whatever the weather, you’ll find activities to keep children of all ages entertained with the Spring Family Activity Pack (£4) which even includes things to do when you get home! Take a picnic or enjoy a treat in the lovely café. For more information go online. W: www.merl.reading.ac.uk/whats-on

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Jump into Spring

with RedKangaroo!

April is the perfect time to hop on down to Red Kangaroo’s bright and bonkers world of trampolines, inflatables, obstacle courses and slides! Start the holiday with their Easter Ball, a fantastic 2 hour event with games, music and prizes to be won!

Tickets are on sale now, check the website www.redkangaroo.co.uk for details.

Jump from the 4-7th of April, from 4-6pm, and you’ll get a 2 hour jump and FREE Meal deal*! That’s right, all jumpers will receive a pizza meal with a slush and a packet of crisps at no extra cost! Just bounce on these dates using code PTMEAL and it will be added to your session. *Meal deal consists of slices of Margherita pizza, small polar Krush slush and crisps. Pizza can be gluten free on request and all sides are subject to availability.

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools September 2023 Entry The Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools consists of Herschel Grammar School, Langley Grammar School, St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School and Upton Court Grammar School. We operate a shared 11+ entrance examination process using the same examination papers and common eligibility criteria. The 11+ examination for entry in September 2023 will be held on Saturday 17 September 2022.

The full schedule for the Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools 11+ entrance examination process can be found on the schools’ websites.

11+ Information Online Event Thursday 28th April 2022 at 5pm This event is for parents only and will explain the 11+ entrance examination process in detail. This event is not suitable for children, as it does not provide school specific details. It is purely to provide you with information necessary for you to understand the testing and application process and will last for a maximum of one hour. This one event cover applies to the same 11+ process for all four schools.

The event will be held online and will comprise of a live presentation by John Constable, Headteacher of Langley Grammar School followed by a question and answer session via the chat function with the Headteachers of all four schools. Following the event a Frequently Asked Questions document will be produced and posted on the schools’ websites with a recording of the presentation.

For details and joining instructions for the online meeting, please visit the websites of any of the four consortium grammar schools.

Herschel Grammar School

Langley Grammar School

01753 520950 • www.herschel.slough.sch.uk

01753 598300 • www.lgs.slough.sch.uk

St Bernard’s Catholic Grammar School

Upton Court Grammar School

01753 527020 • www.st-bernards.slough.sch.uk

01753 522892 • www.uptoncourtgrammar.org.uk

Open Evenings and Open Mornings – please visit individual school websites for dates and times

Registering your child to take the 11+ Registration for the 11+ will be through an online form which will be available from Monday 2 May 2022.

Details of how to access the form will be made available on the school websites from early April.

Education Watch

Queen Anne’s School

Education Watch Crosfields Senior School celebrates the individual Challenging academically, whilst supporting their students, Crosfields Senior School encourages curiosity and independent thinking.

Students can choose from a wide range of GCSE Options including Dance, Business and Psychology. Wellbeing and mental health are at the forefront of everything they do, with school counsellors onsite twice a week. Students develop talents and explore new experiences and can take part in over 90 co-curricular activities, 15 sports, creative and performing arts, and music school activities. Set in 40 acres, their global connections mean that over 40 languages are spoken across their community. Go along and experience Crosfields for yourself at their Open Evening on Tuesday 24th May 2022. W: www.crosfields.com

Reading Blue Coat extends its co-ed provision from September 2023 Reading Blue Coat is excited to extend its co-ed provision to welcome girls into Year 7 from September 2023, with girls in every year group by 2027. Their newly founded Adventure Education programme is flourishing, while plans to develop their new Performing Arts Centre are soon to get underway. Reading Blue Coat offers unrivalled co-curricular opportunities in Music, Drama and Sport, and in the community – all of which celebrate their values of aspiration, courage and integrity. If you have a daughter who is currently in Year 5, they strongly recommend attending their Open Morning on Saturday 7th May 2022 to see for yourself.

Please register online. W www.rbcs.org.uk

The Marist School Rated ‘Excellent’ in all areas by ISI Inspection The Marist School has been rated ‘Excellent’ in all areas following a recent Inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI).

The key findings of the report recognise the quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent stating that “throughout the school, pupils are successful, independent, and collaborative learners, both inside and outside of the classroom”.

Inspectors also highlighted the school’s learning environment saying, “pupils make rapid progress in developing knowledge, skills and understanding as a result of the supportive and collaborative learning environment and the determination of the pupils.”

Focusing on the excellent quality of the pupils’ personal development, Inspectors praised the

18 SPRING ISSUE 2022

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strong sense of community and identity saying, “pupils demonstrate an outstanding sense of community and identity as a school”. The report continues to say that “from the moment they join the school, pupils make rapid progress in developing their self-confidence, resilience, self-discipline, and other personal skills.”

Principal, Mrs Jo Smith, said, “This is a wonderful report and reflects the strengths of our Marist community. By talking to pupils, staff, parents, and leadership, the Inspectors recognised the excellence in what we do every day in all aspects of life here at The Marist.”

W: www.themarist.com

Education watch

OPEN MORNING 7 MAY Visit us as we extend our co-educational provision through from the Junior School to the Senior School

Scan here to reserve your place 01635 555680 | stgabriels.co.uk/bookyourvisit St Gabriel’s | Sandleford Priory | Newbury | Berkshire | RG20 9BD

Primary_Times_MARCH+MAY_183X131mm_Queen_Anne’s_School_2

KIND HEARTS FIERCE MINDS STRONG SPIRITS

OPEN MORNING Saturday 7 May

OPEN EVENING Thursday 9 June

BOOK TODAY: qas.org.u k

Queen Anne’s is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 11 to 18 A Microsoft Showcase School

Extensive transport network across Berkshire & Oxfordshire

35 acres in the heart of Caversham

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SPRING ISSUE 2022

19

Education Watch

Enjoy the Journey

Based in the heart of Windsor, Upton House is a thriving Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School for boys and girls aged 2-11 years. With high academic standards, high calibre staff and excellent pastoral care, Upton House children blossom and have a zest for life, continually learning and developing their abilities, interests, and talents within a caring and supportive environment. Upton teaches children to thrive in the modern world and they invite their students to think outside the box. Upton offers a personalised education, and their children are capable, confident, and kind individuals when they leave the school. From as early as nursery, Upton engages children in new languages starting with Mandarin and French. Upton also offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities including art, chess, coding, STEM, broadcasting, and many sports such as rugby, rowing, fencing, cricket, ballet, netball and judo. Life skills, creativity and critical thinking are a priority. W: www.uptonhouse.org.uk

Waverley ranked 34th in the UK by The Times Waverley Preparatory School has achieved another excellent ranking in the National Prep School league tables. The school continues to be ranked 'Best in Berkshire' being the only school in Berkshire to have consistently appeared in the Times Top 100 rankings for 11 consecutive years. Waverley is also thrilled that it is now ranked 34th in the UK out of over 20,000 Prep and Primary schools in the UK. Waverley has jumped an impressive 21 places since last year's ranking. The latest ranking is based on 3 years of the results of academic performance across the last 3 years - meaning that Waverley's impressive academic performance is not a one-off! The rankings are based on the academic performance of the Year 6 cohort. W: www.waverleyschool.co.uk

The Abbey’s Human Intelligence initiative Simply put: it’s the most exciting, innovative and rigorous curriculum available anywhere in the country

Join us at our Open Morning, 9am -12pm, 6 May www.theabbey.co.uk/events Junior School-Human Intelligence-180w 130h.indd 1

20 SPRING ISSUE 2022

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28/02/2022 15:19

Education watch

Discovering Queen Anne’s School: New head Elaine Purves shares her experience “I am delighted to have been appointed as Head of Queen Anne’s in January, attracted to the role by the school’s outstanding ‘value added’ data, the beautiful campus, exciting neuroscience research and the impressive students that I met as part of the interview process.

Long Close School ranked ‘Outstanding’ in all areas

Queen Anne’s is a fascinating combination of traditional, forward-thinking, and ultra-modern which provides a really dynamic and inspirational environment for our students to learn. From the 22 teachers trained to Microsoft Expert level or the student who has this week had an academic paper peer-reviewed and accepted into a science journal, to the pupils who have just received their England call-up for the U19 lacrosse squad, or perhaps the seven girls who have just attained their university-level music diplomas – the standard and quality of our staff and girls is truly exceptional.

Long Close School welcomes children from 2-16 years, offering a rigorous academic education alongside exceptional pastoral care.

Pupils are happy and motivated in this co-ed school, making outstanding academic progress, and enjoying access to a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. Ranked ‘Outstanding in all areas’ in their ISI Inspection Report, the school is proud to be recognised as a school where academic excellence is nurtured and achieved.

To find out more about how your child could benefit from a Long Close education, book a place at the next Open Day on Saturday 14th May by getting in touch. T: 01753 520095 E: admissions@longcloseschool.co.uk

The year ahead looks to be an explosion of creativity and innovation; I love the confidence that our students have in STEAM subjects; as a Microsoft showcase school, our students are adept at using technology to enhance their learning, our modern science block inspires and our visual arts encompass textiles, ceramics, printmaking and animation. Creativity and critical thinking abound!”

W: www.qas.org.uk

RESERVE YOUR PLACE NOW!

THE MARIST SCHOOL

SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN EVENING

INDEP ENDENT CATHOLIC DAY SCHOOL F O R G I R L S A G E D 2- 18 W I T H A C O - E D N U R SE R Y

90+ CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

WE CELEBRATE THE INDIVIDUAL Tuesday 24th May 2022 from 5:45pm Book online at: www.crosfields.com

IN AL L AR EAS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL S INSPECTORAT E 2021

NEW SENIOR SCHOOL BUILDING

J O I N U S FO R O UR WHOLE SCHOOL

OPEN DAY 14 MAY 2022 WWW.THEMARIST.COM

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SPRING ISSUE 2022

21

Education Watch

An Independent Prep School for Boys & Girls aged 3-13

Dolphin School inspires a love of learning that lasts a lifetime …

Please visit our website to learn more

www.dolphinschool.com Alternatively, contact Kate Spooner admissions@dolphinschool.com

0118 934 1277

Booking is essential, contact: admissions@longcloseschool.co.uk | 01753 520095 longcloseschool.co.uk

Waltham Road, Hurst, Berkshire, RG10 0FR

Independent, co-educational education for 3 months-11 years

34

11 Years

TH

BEST IN BERKSHIRE

IN THE

UK

Rankings based on the academic results of our Year 6 pupils

Waverley Preparatory School and Nursery

22 SPRING ISSUE 2022

Limited places now available for Reception 2022 and 2023.

Registrations welcome.

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0118 973 1121 07768 708743 admissions@waverleyschool.co.uk www.waverleyschool.co.uk

OCT 20 Go Ape Bracknell UPTON HOUSE Go wild on family-friendly adventures, Treetop Adventure is perfect for little SCHOOL

March

is a thriving Nursery, Pre-Prep tree-legs. Treetop Adventure Plus adds what’sUpton onHouse when and Prep School for boys and girlsloop aged an extra of fun for thrill-seekers

Wednesday 23rd

On-going

Explore the museum at a themed session for neurodiverse visitors of all ages and their families and carers. Facilitated activities and a break-out room will be available.

Reading Museum. 2-4pm. Free.

For details & to book visit W: readingmuseum.org.uk/whats-on

ones (over 1m tall) just getting their

(over tall) who want to go higher 2 years up to 11 years based in 1.2m the heart and take on an even longer solo zipline. of Windsor Treetop Self-esteem and happiness areChallenge is the goliath for explorers over paramount to each child’s success and1.4m it tall and 10+. For a unique experience Swinley Forest has prides itself on developing confident and Eton College Museums an off-road Forest Segway experience happy children with a love (min of learning.

6 stone, max 18.4 stone) or, Eton College Museums and The vibrant curriculum and high calibre channel your inner warrior on Axe Galleries Openings, Free entry teaching ensures not only excellent Throwing (16+years). Bookings: open on Sundays 2:30-5pm. academic standards but allows children to W: https://goape.co.uk/ W: www.etoncollege.com/about-us/ thrive, preparing them with vital life skills our-public-museums for their years at Upton and beyond.

Crew Mobile Farm A full-extended day runsBasil from&7.45am to 6pm andatLittle open Friday Fledglings MERLUpton Nursery Basilisand Crew48 is a mobile farm bringing an array of animals to weeks a year to support working parents.

A weekly outdoor learning session for your home or school, providing an pre-schoolersuptonhouse.org.uk in the fantastic urban opportunity for children and adults to garden at the(01753) MERL. Museum of English 862 610 get as close as they are comfortable Rural Life, Reading.

Runs on Fridays registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk with, to real animals, grooming and during term time 10-11.30am. Free. feeding them, plus their friendly and W: https://merl.reading.ac.uk/visit-us knowledgeable staff will be on hand to assist where needed.

T: 01628 821145 / 07721 422554 Museum of English Rural Life E: farm@basilandcrew.co.uk Spring is in the air at The Museum of W: www.basilandcrew.co.uk English Rural Life in Reading. With free admission, you can pop in for a visit at any time. Explore the museum or garden with themed trails. Play inside or outdoors with our digital and handson interactives in the galleries or fabulous wooden tractor in the garden.

W: www.reading.ac.uk/families

Diddy Drivers – Driving fun for children!

A truly magnificent fleet of luxury mini electric cars for the younger driver to enjoy. With signs, traffic lights and roadworks to negotiate! Let your child demonstrate their driving skills, but don’t worry if they struggle, each vehicle can be remotely operated by an adult! Available for fetes, fund days, private parties, nursery graduations etc. T: 01628 821145 / 07721 422554 E: diddydrivers@basilandcrew.co.uk

The Living Rainforest The charity run visitor attraction is all-weather and indoors. There are free ranging animals and birds that make it feel just like a real rainforest! With free parking and a great value annual ticket, it’s a fantastic day out for families. W: www.livingrainforest.org

Friday 25th

Wear A Hat Day Wear A Hat Day is back! Join thousands of school children, parents and teachers across the UK and get hatty to help find a cure for brain tumours.

This year’s unmissable fundraiser has a regal theme, celebrating the Platinum Jubilee with four new royal hat badges.

It’s the perfect way to bring everyone together and enjoy hat-themed events for Brain Tumour Research. Register today to get your free fundraising pack: W: www.wearahatday.org

We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip …or promise!

Welcoming girls into Year 7 from 2023

USE S HO

OOL CH

UPTO N

JULY 21

Museums, My Way at Reading Museum

Upton House School Based in the heart of Windsor, Upton House is a thriving Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School for boys and girls aged 2-11 years.

Self-esteem and happiness, we believe, are paramount to each child’s success and we pride ourselves on developing confident and happy children with a love of learning.

Now delivers an enhanced selective curriculum, including Music Technology. Exciting school events all live streamed innovatively and recorded for parents/family to share. Great Scholarship success each year.

With 40 years’ experience teaching girls, Reading Blue Coat is excited to extend its Co-Ed provision to welcome girls into Year 7 from September 2023.

Open Morning: Saturday 7 May 2022 Register your attendance at

Call 01753 862610 or email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk

rbcs.org.uk

Join us for the journey

An Independent Day School for Boys and Girls 11-18

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Sunday 27th

Cobbs Play Barn Re-opening

Friday 8th

Saturday 9th

Spring Family Raceday

The bespoke wooden Play Barn at Cobbs is re-opening at Easter.

With two levels to discover and explore children can really let their imagination run wild.

Cobbs Farm shop, Hungerford.

W: www.cobbsplaybarn.co.uk E: play@cobbsplaybarn.co.uk

Easter at Greys Court

Bertie’s Museum Nature Trail + Craft Pack

A thrilling combination of top class Jumps racing and free themed activities for racegoers of all ages.

Ascot Racecourse. Tickets from £26, with free entry for under 18’s.

W: https://ascot.com/horse-racesand-events

Cobbs I-spy Easter Trail

Wednesday 30th

Wizarding World Wand Tour The Wizarding Wands installation will be touring in celebration of the release of Fantastic Beasts: Secrets of Dumbledore. Visiting Reading from 30th March – 5th April, with the third instalment of Fantastic Beasts releasing on 8th April. The Oracle Shopping Centre, Reading.

W: www.fantasticbeasts.co.uk

April Friday 1st

BetVictor Jumps Season Finale Running 1st/2nd April at Newbury Racecourse.

W: www.newburyracecourse.co.uk

Open from 4th– 18th April. Free entry.

Collect a map from Cobbs Play Barn, head up to the farm and follow the I-spy trail. Once you’ve found all our clues head back to the Play Barn to collect an Easter egg reward.

Cobbs Farm shop, Hungerford.

W: www.cobbsplaybarn.co.uk E:play@cobbsplaybarn.co.uk

Easter Holiday Camps Funtastic Kids are running exciting and vibrant Easter Holiday Camps across Berkshire! Children will enjoy egg-cellent Easter themed activities (including art, games, science and more) as well as a fun-packed sports timetable. Funded HAF places available. Locations : Reading, Calcot, Newbury, Binfield, Burghfield, Woodley, Wokingham, Earley, and Finchampstead.

W: www.funtastickids.co.uk

Easter adventure in nature trail 8th – 25th April at Greys Court near Henley-on-Thames. Normal admission plus £3 per trail, includes a chocolate Rainforest Alliance Easter egg W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ greys-court

Windsor Great Park Nature Detective Trail Solve riddles and puzzles to discover more about the trees, plants and wildlife that live in Windsor Great Park. Running 8th – 24th April. Trails are £1.50 each from The Savill Garden Visitor Centre.

W: www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk/ easter

Easter at Basildon Park, nr Reading Easter adventure in nature trail 8th – 25th April. Normal admission plus £3 per trail, includes a chocolate Rainforest Alliance Easter egg W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ basildon-park

Easter Egg Hunt, Newbury Town Centre Running 9th-24th April. Prizes to be won at this two-week Easter Hunt!

Find the eggs hidden around the quaint market town of Newbury and complete the colour-in sheet as you go. Trail sheets can be downloaded from visitnewbury.org.uk/events for a small donation to local charity, Swings & Smiles.

Monday 4th to Thursday 7th April

Monday 4th

Boredom Busting School Holidays!

There’s something for every 3-11 year old at the Beehive Holiday Clubs!

The holiday programme is a mix of high energy and calm activities.

Offering; sports, arts and crafts, cooking, traditional board games and gaming consoles, outdoor adventures, treasure hunts, den building and even cooking on fire!

8am-6pm. Morning (£20), Afternoon (£20) and all day sessions (£36) available. Crown Wood Primary School, 4th-14th April or Nine Mile Ride Primary School, 11th-14th April.

W: www.beehiveclub.co.uk

2 hour Jump and FREE Meal at Redkangaroo Reading Come on down to RedKangaroo Reading with some amazing value sessions where everyone is catered for, literally! Jump from the 4-7th of April from 4-6pm and you’ll get a 2 hour jump and FREE Meal deal*! That’s right, all their jumpers will receive a pizza meal with a slush and a packet of crisps at no extra cost! Just bounce on those dates using code PTMEAL and it will be added to your session.

W: www.redkangaroo.co.uk We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip …or promise!

ASCOT stagecoach.co.uk/ascot NEWBURY stagecoach.co.uk/newbury

Running 9th-23rd April at Reading Museum. There are lots of hidden plant and nature related things around the museum. Help Bertie the Badger to find them all! Then make some fun spring themed crafts at home.

Families, £2.50 per trail/pack book your trail and craft pack on W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Welly’s Easter Eggstravaganza Running 9th-24th April at Wellington Country Park, Riseley near Reading.

Easter themed activities and train ride.

W: https://wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

8th – 24th April

Easter Egg Hunt The Easter bunny has been to IKEA Reading and hidden 14 eggs around the store. Each egg has a letter written on them. Can you find all the eggs and complete the seasonal phrase to win an ice-cream? For more information please visit our ‘What’s on in store?’ page at www.ikea.co.uk/Reading

WOKINGHAM stagecoach.co.uk/wokingham WINDSOR AND LANGLEY stagecoach.co.uk/windsor

READING CAVERSHAM stagecoach.co.uk/readingcaversham BRACKNELL NORTH (WARFIELD) stagecoach.co.uk/bracknellnorth

Book and Play Boat Hire re-opens for summer Weekends April – Oct and every day during school holidays.

11am-5pm. Ages 2+. Under 8’s supervision required.

W: www.dinton-pastures.co.uk/ activities/boat-hire/

ENROLLING NOW FOR NEW TERM Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

BOOK NOW

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

24 SPRING ISSUE 2022

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Norden Farm Centre for the Arts

FUN FOR FAMILIES AT THE MERL ENJOY ACTIVITIES IN THE

MUSEUM & GARDEN

QfamUilEy SfesTt TUES 12 Apr - Fri 22 Apr 2022

navigate your way through 2 weeks of creative adventures!

• shows • films • workshops • • gallery • cafe bar • Quest Family Fest is supported by:

Find out about events and activities this Spring at

merl.reading.ac.uk/whats-on

Centre for the Arts Maidenhead

01628 788997 nordenfarm.org

@nordenfarm /nordenfarm

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PF

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PeteZa Big Foot and the Pirate Shows

Easter Adventure in Nature Trail

Running 9th-11th April at Wellington Country Park, Riseley near Reading.

W: https://wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

Running 9th-24th April. The Vyne, National Trust near Basingstoke. Normal admission plus £3 per trail, includes a chocolate Rainforest Alliance Easter egg W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-vyne

Woodland Explorers Easter Egg Hunt Woodland trail around Burnham Beeches near Maidenhead with a chocolate treat as a reward. Running until 18th April. £3.

W: www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Eggy Bingo trail Find the egg-shaped objects in the museum, when you’ve found them all, go and collect your prize! Even the youngest visitors can enjoy this trail.

Families, £1 per trail, running until 23rd April at Reading Museum.

W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Easter Egg Hunts at Cliveden Nature trail at Cliveden National Trust Property. Running 9th-24th April.

10am-3pm. The price of the trail is £3 per child and includes a trail map, pencil and a chocolate egg at the end.

W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip …or promise!

Sunday 10th

Meet the Ranger and the Reptiles One of the Rangers will be near the café with some of the reptiles and amphibians that can be found on site. Burnham Beeches, Near Maidenhead. 2-4pm.

W: www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Monday 11th

Theatrical Half Term Fun at The Watermill Theatre near Newbury Create a play in just five days with Play in a Week! Together work towards a Friday afternoon performance for family and friends. Suitable for ages 8–16 years.

Learn some of your favourite songs and sequences from hit musicals and present them to family and friends at the end of the week in a Musical Afternoon course.

Suitable for ages 8 - 11 years. Both courses run from 11th-14th April. £80.

Book both courses and save £20!

E: outreach@watermill.org.uk W: watermill.org.uk

DISCOVER A NEW WAY TO STAY FIT AND IMPROVE CONFIDENCE IN THE YEAR AHEAD! Courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and courage. These are the tenets of Tae Kwon Do. Reading Tae Kwon Do Academy has over 30 years’ experience guiding people through this martial art, helping to improve balance, fitness and self-confidence and offer classes starting from 4-6 years (Tiger Cubs), through to junior and adult. Children progress and improve kicking and punching skills in a fun, controlled environment. If you are looking for a new way to stay fit, gain self-defence skills, discipline and confidence whilst making new friends, Reading Tae Kwon Do Academy may well be the right choice! T: 07766 125735 W: www.reading-tkd.com

Bunny Hunt

Let Me Play

Look for clues around the centre to help find the magic word. Receive a chocolate treat once complete!

No booking required. 9.30am-2pm.

Running until 22nd April. Squires Garden Centre, Wokingham.

W: www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk/shop

Holiday club at Windsor Leisure Centre, Clewer Mead, Stovell Road, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 5JB 11th-14th April.

Ages 5-12. Also on 19th-22nd April.

W: https://playsport.coordinate.cloud

Easter at the Living Rainforest The Living Rainforest is designed to be just like a real rainforest, there are great plants with spectacular leaves and animals like tortoises, turtle, fish, Caiman, Goeldi monkeys and even a sloth. Over the holidays there will be tour guides who can point out all the things that are easy to overlook and are happy to answer all your questions.

All entry to the Living Rainforest must be pre-booked online. The Living Rainforest, Hampstead Norreys, RG18 OTN. T: 01635 202 444 W: www.livingrainforest.org

Easter Activities at Squires Plant a colourful Easter pot, £6.

Booking essential. Take it home or give as a lovely Easter gift!

Running until 22nd April. Squires Garden Centre, Wokingham.

W: www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk/shop

Easter Egg Decorating: Cobbs Play Barn A fun and relaxed Easter create & play session. Also on 13th April. Tickets include: 1 Easter egg to paint & all materials, time to play, an Easter treat and child’s juice carton. Cobbs Farm shop, Hungerford. Booking essential: play@cobbsplaybarn.co.uk

Whatever the Wrongs

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Talk to one of ourr sp pec cia alist family la awyers to hellp clear your mind.

Call 01628 477889 for your free consulltation n.

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26 SPRING ISSUE 2022

For two weeks of Easter, the popular multi activity sessions and weeklong sailing courses will be running at Dinton. Ages 8+.

W: www.dinton-pastures.co.uk/ activities/junior-6

Tuesday 12th

LEWENDON’S

MON & THURS RADSTOCK SCHOOL RG6 5UZ TUES OWLSMOOR COMMUNITY CENTRE GU47 0TF WED SHINFIELD ST MARY’S SCHOOL RG2 9EJ PRIVATE LESSONS AVAILABLE

Wild Days and Junior Sailing Courses

info@reading-tkd.com

07766 125 735

www.reading-tkd.com

Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/berkshire for thousands more great days out

• Classes in Thatcham, Pangbourne & Compton • Max 6 children per class – from 3yrs. old • Instructors are Qualified, Insured with DBS • All locations have free parking – lovely pools!

• Continual assessment and lane progression • Rookie Lifeguards – supporting DofE We are an independent family run swim school – not a franchise ‘Every child is different, every child is equal’

07853 194327

jo@swimlessons.co.uk | swimlessons.co.uk

Quest Family Fest

Wednesday 13th

Quest Family Fest is a fun packed fortnight of new experiences for children and families this Easter holiday! Including family shows Jack and the Beanstalk, The Amazing Bubble Man and Family Concertini with CBeebies YolanDa Brown. There’s also activity clubs plus daily craft and storytelling. Running until 22nd April. Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PF. T: 01628 788997 W: www.nordenfarm.org

Family Activity Morning Marvellous Masks

EasterFest at Newbury Town Centre

Decorate a spring and Easter themed wooden mask with a selection of stickers, gems, ribbon and pens.

Shaw House, Newbury.

W: https://booking.westberks.gov. uk/heritage

Bubble Fun

The Mega Egg Hunt

Running 12th/13th April at Wellington Country Park, Riseley near Reading.

W: https://wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

Running 15th-17th April at Wellington Country Park, Riseley near Reading.

W: https://wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

Family Easter Trail Find the Fox Cubs A springtime adventure around the lake, follow the trail and help mother fox find her missing cubs to earn an Easter treat! 10am-12noon, other dates available. Nature Discovery Centre Visitor Centre, Thatcham, Berkshire.

W: www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Tuesday 12th & 19th April

Easter Arts & Crafts On Tuesday 12th & 19th April, IKEA Reading is helping to make these Easter holidays eggs-tra special with our seasonal arts & crafts sessions!

Come and join the fun in our customer restaurant as we help your little ones create seasonal cards and artwork.

For more information please visit our ‘What’s on in store?’ page at www.ikea.co.uk/Reading

Grab selfies in Wonderland with Alice, Mad Hatter, and the Queen of Hearts, and catch showstopping musical performances! Listen to magical tales during story-time with the Easter Bunny and hunt for Easter eggs hidden amongst scattered giant objects such as a life-size chess set and wacky furniture! See street entertainers, live music, and enjoy the sizzling smells from the nearby street food and vibrant market stalls. Running 15th-17th April.

W: www.visitnewbury.org.uk/events

Quest Family Festival – Explore Day! Thursday 14th

Easter Party Why not kick off the Easter holidays with a joyful trip to IKEA Reading?

Celebrate over a warm meal and meet the Easter Bunny as he mingles with families in the IKEA Customer Restaurant. Supper will be held on Thursday 14th evening. The event is free, but you need to reserve your table. For more information and to book please visit our ‘What’s on in store?’ page at www.ikea.co.uk/Reading

Children of all ages and their families can try something new with Explore, a whole day of one hour workshops.

Workshops are £4.50 per person or buy a Pass – four workshops for £16 per person. There are over 40 workshops to choose from including circus skills, chocolate making, drama and digital animation. Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PF. T: 01628 788997 W: www.nordenfarm.org

Available for fetes, fundays, private parties, nursery graduations etc…

Call Pete: 01628 821145 / 07721 422554 Email: diddydrivers@basilandcrew.co.uk

Saturday 16th

Racing Experience Day: Dubai Duty Free Spring Trails Meeting Family fun at the Racing Experience Day where everyone including young racegoers will get the chance to have a look into the racing world with opportunities to meet and be a Jockey, learn about ownership, book signings as well as a collection of fun family activities.

W: www.newburyracecourse.co.uk

Messy Museum Morning: Let There be Light Make your own Roman oil lamp out of air-drying clay and then decorate it.

West Berkshire Museum, Newbury.

W: https://booking.westberks.gov.uk/ heritage

Friday 15th

Circus Wellingtonia Running 15th-18th April at Wellington Country Park, Riseley near Reading.

W: https://wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

H Easter oliday e Clu hiv bs e Be Open to all children aged 3-11 Years

Crown Wood Primary School

Includes snacks & all activities!

Crown Wood Primary School AND

PLUS SPECIAL

!

GUEST VISITS

Reptiles...

Birds of Prey, announced! and more to be

Tradition Castles, more! and much

www.beehiveclub.co.uk

Finchampstead

Nine Mile Ride Primary School

ges! r allBaa g, iesTefo ts, kin ActiArvts it am Spor s, Tech & Crafts, al Game Bouncy

Mon 11th to Thur 14th April

!

Mon 4th to Fri 8th April

Morning 8am-1pm £20 Afternoon 1pm-6pm £20 All day 8am-6pm £36

07769 881946

enquiries@beehiveclub.co.uk

Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/berkshire for thousands more great days out

SPRING ISSUE 2022

27

Sunday 17th

Saturday 23rd

Sunday 24th

Monday 2nd

Family Fun Day Newbury Racecourse

Drop-in Family Craft

First Days Charity Colour Run

Family Fun Day

Long Live the Queen! Pop in from Sat 23 April - Sun 22 May and create a pennant to decorate the Museum.

West Berkshire Museum, Newbury.

W: https://booking.westberks.gov.uk/ heritage

Enjoy a day of Family fun featuring Easter Egg Hunts, Petting Zoo and more!

W: www.newburyracecourse.co.uk

Tuesday 19th

Springwatch Paddle

Where’s the Hare?

See the lake come to life on the Springwatch paddles on stand-up paddleboards or sit-on-tops. Look out for the waterfowl chicks like ducklings, cygnets and goslings and beautiful colourful dragonflies. Finish the paddle with a warm drink and slice of homemade cake at the Activity Centre. 10.30am12.30pm, 1.30pm-3.30pm, Age 4+. £35.

W: www.dinton-pastures.co.uk/ activities/guided-activities

Hares are such interesting creatures.

Go along to the environmental education centre and grounds to find out all about them! 10am-12noon. Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre.

W: www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Circus Skills Running 19th-21st April at Wellington Country Park, Riseley near Reading.

W: https://wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

First Days Children’s Charity are very excited to be hosting their first Colour Run, 2pm start at Prospect Park, Reading. First Days is a Wokingham-based charity working and campaigning to end child poverty.

You can walk, run or dance your way around the 2.5km course. Details: W: www.firstdays.net

Saturday 30th

The Pop Up Play Village Running 30th April-2nd May at Wellington Country Park, Riseley near Reading.

W: https://wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

May We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip …or promise!

Friday 22nd

PeteZa & Big Foot Fun Time Shows Running 22nd-24th April at Wellington Country Park, Riseley near Reading.

W: https://wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

Live horse racing , with a host of entertainment and activities for the whole family. Keep the kids entertained with face painters, bouncy castle and by getting up close to hear the thundering hooves at the finishing line?

Windsor Racecourse.

W: www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk/ whats-on

Sunday 1st

Shaw House Open Day Explore the House, exhibition rooms and many areas which are not normally open to the public. Shaw House, Newbury.

W: https://booking.westberks.gov. uk/heritage

Saturday 14th

Reading Children’s Festival This year’s festival celebrates its 33rd anniversary with three fun packed weeks of events and activities for children all over the borough. From sport and music workshops to fun days with art and craft sessions, take your pick from the many exciting events taking place at venues across Reading.

This year’s festival is celebrating everything biscuit related celebrating 200 years of Huntley and Palmers biscuit factory in Reading. Running until 5th June. T: 0118 937 2771 W: www.facebook.com/ReadingCFest

Fri 22 & Sat 23 April 2022 Tickets £1 9 U n d e r 16 s £1 6 Family of 4 * £6 4

The Kenton Theatre Henley-on-Thames

www.kentontheatre.co.uk Box Office: 01491 525050 *2 adults and 2 under 16s or 1 adult and 3 under 16s

Easter Holiday Camps Dependable childcare in a safe environment Open Monday 4th - Friday 22nd April (closed Monday 18th and Friday 15th)

Prices from £21.50 per day (sibling discount on offer) Ages 4-15 (from 3 at selected locations) Sports and creative themed activities Funded HAF places available Ofsted registered

ALBY THE PENGUIN SAVES THE WORLD WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY

HELEN EASTMAN 6 APR – 18 APR 2022

www.funtastickids.co.uk 28 SPRING ISSUE 2022

07715643412

BOOK TICKETS AT READINGREP.COM

Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/berkshire for thousands more great days out

FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY • COME AND JOIN US

SUNDAY 24 APRIL Prospect Park, Reading

Tue 12 - Thu 14 Apr cornexchangenew.com

Box Office 0845 5218 218 (calls cost 2p per minute plus your telephone company’s access charge)

Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/berkshire for thousands more great days out

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Box Office Your family theatre guide Corn Exchange Newbury

Norden Farm Centre

www.cornexchangenew.com

Maidenhead www.norden.farm

Tuesday 12th – Thursday 14th April

DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family.

Friday 22nd – Sunday 24th April

CHARLOTTE’S WEB The Corn Exchange’s Infant and Junior Youth Theatre presents Charlotte’s Web, a poignant, humorous story of a pig, a spider and a little girl.

Thursday 12th May

YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN Contact the venue for details.

Saturday 14th May

YOLANDA’S BAND JAM Contact the venue for details.

Tuesday 12th April

FAMILY CONCERTINI WITH YOLANDA BROWN An inspirational Concertini exploring a fusion of Reggae, Jazz and Soul.

Tuesday 12th April

QUEST FAMILY FEST Quest Family Fest is a fun packed fortnight of new experiences for children and families this Easter holiday. Including family shows Jack and the Beanstalk, The Amazing Bubble Man and Family Concertini with CBeebies YolanDa Brown. There’s also activity clubs plus daily craft and storytelling.

Running until 22nd April.

We take great care to ensure this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip …or promise!

Primary Times

Competition To enter the competition please email to competitions@primarytimesmag.com When you enter make sure you give us your name, address, email, age and school.

Closing date is Monday 11th April 2022. Please note: Primary Times will only use your details to contact the competition winners.

WIN ONE OF FIVE FAMILY TICKETS TO THE HIGHCLERE SHOW Taking place over the May half-term holiday, inside the gorgeous grounds of Highclere Castle, the Highclere Show makes a fantastic day out for families. From the medieval jousters, the Knights of Middle England, performing inside the Main Arena, to the superb British Falconry and Raptor Fair and their stunning birds of prey collection, visitors can enjoy a host of demonstrations and interactive displays across a whole weekend.

To win one of five family tickets to this May’s Highclere Show taking place on 28th & 29th May, answer the following question correctly: The Highclere Show welcomes which jousting team to the Main Arena?

A) Knights of the Round Table B) Knights of Middle England C) Knights of the Realm To win this fantastic prize of a Family Ticket, simply send us your entry marked ‘Highclere’ and all correct answers will be placed into our prize draw. Good luck!

Closing date is Monday 11th April.

30 SPRING ISSUE 2022

Wednesday 13th – Thursday 14th April

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK This classic fairy-tale now gets the Lyngo treatment so expect lots of surprises and beautiful images as Patrick Lynch (from Cbeebies) tells the gripping story of Jack who sells his cow for 5 magic beans and finds himself in the land above the clouds.

Kenton Theatre Henley on Thames www.kentontheatre.co.uk Friday 22nd – Saturday 23rd April

ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND DK Productions are excited to be back at The Kenton Theatre as we follow Alice and drop down the rabbit hole to a magical place in Wonderland. You would be ‘mad’ to miss it! Expect a fast-paced show with lots of audience interaction; get ready for one of the world’s greatest adventures.

Reading Arts www.whatsonreading.com Wednesday 6th – Monday 18th April

ALBY THE PENGUIN SAVES THE WORLD Alby the Penguin Saves the World in a magical and meaningful adventure, for kids aged 3-6.

Friday 8th – Saturday 9th April

MORGAN AND WEST: UNBELIEVABLE SCIENCE Morgan & West present captivating chemistry, phenomenal physics, and bonkers biology in this fun for all the family science extravaganza!

Saturday 16th April

FIREMAN SAM LIVE When all of his friends go away, Norman Price decides to find adventure in Pontypandy and become the star of a visiting circus. But with a tiger on the loose and faulty lights, the adventure soon turns to danger.

Can Fireman Sam come to the rescue and save the circus?

Wednesday 4th – Thursday 5th May

PEPPA PIG’S BEST DAY EVER Peppa Pig is excited to be going on a special day out with George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig - it’s going to be her best day ever!

Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/berkshire for thousands more great days out

Southhill Park Bracknell www.southhillpark.org.uk Sunday 20th March

I SPY WITH MY LITTLE EYE Based on the brand new picture book by Steven Lee (Don’t Dribble on the Dragon, How the Koala Learnt to Hug), this adorable family musical celebrates everything great about being a kid – and everything great about having one.

Monday 11th – Monday 18th April

SHREK THE MUSICAL Everyone’s favourite ogre is back this Easter in South Hill Park’s hilarious stage spectacle, based on the Oscar-winning smash hit film and outrageous Broadway musical.

The Watermill Theatre Bagnor, Newbury Box office: 01635 46044 www.watermill.org.uk Thursday 31st March – Saturday 2nd April

THE GIRL OF INK AND STARS A gripping tale of adventure, myth, and finding the way home.

Performed by The Watermill Youth Ensemble.

Monday 11th – Friday 14th April

THEATRICAL HALF TERM FUN Create a play in just five days with Play in a Week. Together work towards a Friday afternoon performance for family and friends. Suitable for ages 8–16 years. Learn some of your favourite songs and sequences from hit musicals and present them to family and friends at the end of the week in a Musical Afternoon course. Suitable for ages 8 - 11 years. Both courses run from 11th-14th April. £80. Book both courses and save £20!

Saturday 14th May

FAMILY SHOW: WONKY A show about being different, being wonky, being you, Recommended for ages 7+ .

Theatre Royal Windsor theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Box Office: 01753 853 888 Wednesday 20th – Saturday 23rd April

THE LITTLE MERMAID JR Journey “under the sea” with Theatre Royal Windsor this Easter as the TRW Easter School presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR.!

Wishes promotions v2_88 x 131 15/02/2022 11:44 Page 2

JOURNEY UNDER THE SEA THIS EASTER! Theatre Royal Windsor Easter School Present this Amateur Production of

Y FAMIL S T E TICK B A LE AVAIL

WED 20 - SAT 23 APR

theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk • 01753 853888 Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR. is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized materials are supplied by Music Theatre International, 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019. Script, music and all other materials © 2010 iTheatrics Broadway Junior and MTI’s Broadway Junior Collection are trademarksof Music Theatre International. All rights reserved

TLM_QuarterPage_PrimaryTimes_131x88_FEB22.indd 1

16/02/2022 08:30

a south hill park production

georgie Banks as Princess Fiona

ashleigh Wells as Lord Farquaad

Based on the dreamWorks animation motion picture and the Book By William steig

Book and lyrics by david lindsay-abaire

music by Jeanine tesori

originally produced on Broadway by dreamWorks theatricals and neal street productions

Brad Clapson as Shrek

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI Europe www.mtishows.co.uk

poppy ridell as Donkey

Mon 11 – Mon 18 april 2022 Wilde theatre, south hill park, Bracknell rg12 7pa box office 01344 484123 · southhillpark.org.uk @southhillpark

/southhillparkartscentre

Berkshire’s Centre for the Arts, Business and Community

southhillpark

Registered charity 265656 Please support the future of the arts

Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/berkshire for thousands more great days out

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