Primary Times Berkshire - February Half Term 2023

HELLO READERS!

Hello and a warm welcome to our first edition for 2023 – we hope it’s been a happy new year for you all so far. And, just as you’re settling back into the post-Christmas routine, half term is nearly upon us!

Having a good mix of relaxing time at home, plus a few ‘adventure’ days out is often the key to re-charging everyone’s batteries over the holidays. We’ve handpicked a great selection of fun places to visit across Berkshire to help keep boredom and screens at bay! Older children will love the exciting discoveries on a rainforest trail, whilst younger family members can immerse themselves in the interactive, childfriendly museum activities that are going on throughout the school break. Many are free or minimum cost and even better, they’re under cover!

As ever, you’ll find local news and school updates, and fabulous ideas in our What’s on When pages to plan in winter activities to help brighten up the week. And what about planning this year’s birthday party? Don’t fancy the mess at home? Then turn to the Party Ideas section, highlighting brilliant entertainment and venues for kids, so you can plan a stress-free celebration that you can enjoy too!

We’ll be back again in March, anticipating the warmer, longer Spring days and featuring lots of exciting Easter news and events. In the meantime, we wish you a happy and relaxing half term break.

issueNextout March 13th

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

We are the largest free magazine in Berkshire reaching over 154,000 family readers, in this issue. If you’d like to advertise directly to this audience please call 0118 972 4980

HOWDEN CHRISTMAS FAMILY RACEDAY

Saturday 23rd December

New 11 - 18 Secondary School in north Reading

Opening

to Year 7 in September 2024

We are proud to be opening this exciting new secondary school located in Richfield Avenue, benefitting from a multi-million pound building programme and state-ofthe-art facilities.

Have a child joining Year 7 in September 2024?

If you have a child joining Year 7 in September 2024 and you would like to receive further information about River Academy please contact one of our team or visit our website where you can register your interest and request details of future Open Events.

WELLINGTON COLLEGE ARTS

FUND - SUPPORTING THE ARTS IN OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY GET FIT, IMPROVE CONFIDENCE AND MAKE NEW FRIENDS WITH TAE KWON DO

Courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and courage. These are the tenets of Tae Kwon Do. Master Lynne’s 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, Master Lynne’s Tae Kwon Do Academy may well be the right choice! T: 07766 125735 W: www.reading-tkd.com

Wellington College pupils stage regular music and drama performances. The funds raised from ticket sales are then made available to local schools to aid their own arts education. Schools can bid for grants of up to £1,000. Previous recipients of the grant have used it to purchase new staging; hire performance lighting; replenish arts supplies and music equipment. Wellington College would love to be able to offer more schools the opportunity to apply. For further details, please visit W: wellingtoncollege.org.uk/grants This year’s upcoming performances include Legally Blonde the Musical, Two Gentlemen of Verona and the stage adaptation of 1984. In addition, there are various music concerts including the Crowthorne Community Minibus Concert where The Wellington Jazz Orchestra and Concert Band will perform. To find out more and to book tickets, Wellington’s What’s On page is regularly updated W: wellingtoncollege.org.uk/whatson

LET YOUR CHILD BECOME A SAFE , CONFIDENT SWIMMER WITH BETTER SWIM SCHOOL

Whether you’re looking to improve your child’s confidence in the water, swim safety awareness or want to help your child learn to swim, Better Swim School has swimming classes that cater for all levels of ability and ages. As the largest provider of swimming lessons in the UK, they help over 200,00 people a week learn to love the water and keep active, by becoming capable and confident swimmers in a leisure centre near them. They want everyone to feel comfortable and confident in the water. That’s why they offer swim lessons that are taught by experienced, qualified teachers, following their industry-leading programme; flexible, affordable, and convenient with prices starting from as little as £3 per class (dependent on location); and you can track your child’s progress with their online tool – Home Portal. W: www.better.org.uk

AT MADDEN SWIM SCHOOL

Madden Swim School have over 30 years’ experience teaching children how to swim. Their team of friendly qualified swimming instructors offer weekly term-time swimming lessons at The Oratory School, Woodcote and at Downe House School, Thatcham. They place great emphasis on giving children confidence in the water and having fun whilst learning to swim and offer intensive courses during the school holidays. These courses are aimed at non-swimmers, and for those looking to improve their stroke technique, stamina and diving. Madden Swim School offers a high standard of swimming tuition in a safe environment for children of all abilities, from 3½ years through to Academy level. Lessons are taught in small class sizes with teachers in the pool with the non-swimmers. They produce confident and safe swimmers through their monitored program and expect all swimmers to achieve a high standard of stroke technique and water safety skills.

E: julie@maddenswimschool.co.uk W: www.maddenswimschool.co.uk

Wear A Hat Day events are great for helping children to explore their individuality and creativity, whilst learning to work together and think of others – in a really fun way.

Participation fosters friendships, creates better local and school communities, offers unique learning opportunities and provides new ways for children to explore ideas around different life experiences, all while giving hope to brain tumour patients and their loved ones across the country. They’d love it if you joined them, as a family or by persuading your local school to take part. Register now using their quick and easy webform and they’ll be in touch with more information. FREE fundraising packs for all involved! W: www.wearahatday.org

Wear A Hat Day, one of the UK’s most popular annual charitable familyfriendly fundraisers, is coming round again soon. This year, it will take place on Friday 31st March. This iconic and fun annual event has been going for over 10 years, raising millions for vital research into brain tumours – the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40.

MAKE THE MOST OF KUMON’S FREE TRIAL FOR YOUR CHILD

RIVER ACADEMY ON TRACK TO BECOME A HIGH ACHIEVING, VIBRANT NEW SCHOOL

With over 60 years of experience, the Kumon Maths and English Programmes help children of any age and ability to develop into confident, independent learners with strong study skills. They nurture students by giving them the tools they need to enjoy learning and thrive academically. You can also experience their worksheets digitally on your tablet with KUMON CONNECT. To enable you to experience the benefits of Kumon, your local Kumon Study Centre is offering a one-week Free Trial of the Kumon study programmes to all new students from 1st February – 31st March 2023. For more information and to book your one-week Free Trial, contact your local Instructor. W: www.kumon.co.uk

Maiden Erlegh Trust are incredibly proud to be opening this exciting new secondary school benefitting from a multimillion-pound building programme and state-of-the-art facilities. Located in Richfield Avenue, River Academy will provide a fantastic and enriching environment for teaching and learning, student care and support; a place for students to thrive and succeed. When full, River Academy will cater for 1500 students between the ages of 11 and 18, of all abilities and backgrounds. Maiden Erlegh Trust has a strong track record of running high achieving, inclusive and vibrant schools and supporting talented and highly qualified education professionals at all stages of their career. If you have a child joining Year 7 in September 2024, and you would like to find out more about River Academy, please visit their website, where you can register your interest or contact one of the team at Maiden Erlegh Trust. T: 0118 929 6086 W: river-academy.co.uk E: river@maidenerleghtrust.org

February half term is a welcome break to throw off any lingering January blues! Use the holiday to wrap up warm and re-energise by heading out of the house – there are still plenty of ways to entertain the kids when they’re off school. You don’t always need to dig deep into those pockets for a fun filled family day out – check out these great places to visit in the weeks to come, and beyond, to ensure all your family fun is covered.

THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR IS COMING TO THE LEXICON

This February, The Lexicon will host a fabulous interactive trail based on Eric Carle’s bestselling children’s book, The Hungry Caterpillar. Following the same journey of the caterpillar from egg to butterfly, visitors will wind their way through an assortment of larger-than-life fruit sculptures, a cosy chrysalis and a beautiful butterfly, all based on artwork from the famous book. The interactive mini adventure will help to teach children about the close relationship between plants and insects as they search for items such as apples and pears to complete the trail. Running from 11th -19th February, in addition to The Hungry Caterpillar trail, they’ll be prizes to win, additional entertainment and other surprises, so check out the website for details. W: www.thelexiconbracknell.com

HAVE FUN WITH

SCIENCE, SNAKES

AND SLIME THIS HALF TERM WITH BEEHIVE HOLIDAY CLUBS!

The Beehive Holiday Clubs return to Crown Wood & Nine Mile Ride Primary Schools for a fun-filled February half-term! New for 2023, their Sublime Science sessions are not to be missed - hands-on science experiments to amaze and entertain! Your child will make sherbet, slime, a tornado and snow! They can also create a rocket balloon, a soda & Mentos fountain and more! Berkshire Reptile Encounters return for children to get up close to snakes and lizards and learn all about these fascinating creatures. Other activities include, arts & crafts, team sports, games and baking! Days are 8am6pm with morning sessions 8am-1pm (£20), afternoons 1-6pm (£20), and all day 8am-6pm (£36) and they now offer a 10% sibling discount. Please note, an additional £5 will be added on 15/02/23 for the Sublime Science session. Book now at either Crown Wood Primary School or Nine Mile Ride Primary School for the 13th -17th February. W: www.beehiveclub.co.uk

TROPICAL RAINFOREST –RIGHT ON

The Living Rainforest is a great little find designed to be just like a real rainforest, it’s warm and humid but by no means uncomfortable. There are great plants with spectacular leaves and animals like tortoises, turtles, fish, Caiman, Goeldi monkeys and even a Sloth! Lizards free range as do most of the birds. Over the February half term enjoy their free* (*with Entry) daily guided tours which are part of their celebration of Charles Darwin’s contribution to science. Their tour guides will happily point out all the things that are easy to overlook. Take your time, stroll around, and imagine you are in a real jungle. To guarantee entry and save time on arrival, they strongly recommend pre-booking. W: www.livingrainforest.org

Have you ever wondered whether you can capture a shadow? Or been curious about what your insides look like? Explore your curiosities and more this February half term at The Look Out Discovery Centre, a hands-on science exhibition where you and your family can spend a marvellous day out. Whether you want to learn how to build a giant marble run, launch a hot air balloon, or play the laser harp, there’s something for everyone in the science exhibition! In the stunning location of Swinley Forest you can enhance your visit with a ramble in the woods, followed by a luxury hot chocolate and delicious hot food from Woodlarks Café. Tickets are available to prebook online. T: 01344 354400 W: www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/look-out-discovery-centre

The Beehive February Half-Term Holiday Clubs

KEEP YOUR LITTLE ONES ENTERTAINED WITH SQUIRE’S CREATE & GROW ACTIVITIES

Squire’s Garden Centres will be hosting February Half Term fun with a ‘Create & Grow’ ‘Paint a Bird Flowerpot’ activity (booking essential for ‘Paint a Bird’) as well as ‘Bird Treasure Hunt’ (no need to book). Young visitors can get artistic, using their painting skills to create a unique bird-shaped ceramic flowerpot (plant not included), to take home and put on their windowsill! Sessions may be booked online and in-store. The Bird Treasure Hunt is free and there is no need to book, simply turn up on the day. Children will follow a paper trail of birds around the centre to help find the magic word and receive a free sticker. Squire’s ‘Create & Grow’ activities are on from 9.30am – 1pm, Monday, 13th – Friday, 17th February at ALL centres EXCLUDING Badshot Lea and Chertsey. W: www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk

‘GREEN STORIES’ TO DISCOVER AT THE MUSEUM OF ENGLISH RURAL LIFE 2023

FIN-TASTIC HALF TERM FUN!

If you’re looking for a fun-filled treat for little ones this half term, head to the Corn Exchange Newbury on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th February, where families with youngsters aged 3+ can enjoy all three of Nick Sharratt’s Shark in the Park stories performed in one fin-tastic live stage show! When Timothy Pope receives a brand-new telescope for his birthday, boy is he excited to test it out at the park! But wait… is that really a shark he can see? Join Timothy and his Elvis loving Dad on their adventures, meeting lots of other fun characters along the way. Contact them directly for performance times and to book tickets. Box Office T: 01635 522733 W: www.cornexchangenew.com

Events and activities at The Museum of English Rural Life this half term are inspired by Museum Partnership Reading’s ‘Our Green Stories’ campaign. Gather the family and go along and explore the theme of ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’ through The MERL collections in their bookable Object Exploration sessions, activities as part of their ‘Museums, My Way’ event, and in the ‘Sunflower Amulets’ drop-in workshop. Admission to the museum is free and you can explore the galleries and garden with a selection of free trails or try the Winter Family Activity Pack. W: merl.reading.ac.uk/half-term

KEEP BUSY AS A BEE AT READING MUSEUM!

All week, Reading Museum will have a Busy Bee Trail, and Natural World Activity Cart Crafts. Don’t miss their nature-themed week with lots of creative activities kicking off with Super Seeds on Monday 13th, where you can make your own seed growing kit; Nature Printing on Tuesday 14th using different materials to make imaginative nature pictures; and their popular Victorian Schoolroom Experience on Wednesday 15th – where you will experience a Victorian school lesson, with a real Victorian school master! On Thursday 16th you can put a Bee in a colourful Bonnet, and on Friday 17th have a go at Kazoo-Bees and imitate a bee by making a bee kazoo. For prices and to book your slot for these activities see their website. W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Ascot’s first family raceday of 2023 offers a thrilling combination of top-class racing and free countryside themed activities for racegoers of all ages. The final fixture of Ascot’s Jumps season takes place on Sunday 2nd April, and the card features something for everybody with a valuable Juvenile Hurdle as well as a Veterans’ Chase for the popular older horses. There will be plenty of action on and off the track and children can explore the racecourse in a safe environment with free fun attractions, including face painting, pony rides, ferret racing, balloon modellers, and so much more. Tickets from £25 per person, and under 18s go free with a full paying adult. Book now online. W: ascot.com

February

Basil and Crew is a mobile farm bringing an array of animals to your home or school, providing an opportunity for children and adults to get as close as they are comfortable with, to real animals, grooming and feeding them, plus their friendly and knowledgeable staff will be on hand to assist where needed.

Cobbs has the perfect venue for private celebrations and a party theme to suit every child. Leave all the hassle of organising (and cleaning up!) your child’s birthday party to their wonderful team of party helpers. All their parties include full access to the Play Barn, a dedicated party host, a birthday meal, unlimited squash, handmade Cobbs party bags, unique invitations, thank you notes, and plenty of fun! Prices start at £15 per child, a minimum of 10 children per booking.

Kindergym Classes At Pinewood Gymnastics Club • Pay & play classes available: 6m-1yr Wed 9:30-10:15am 1-4yrs Mon-Fri & Sun various times Consists of warm up games, gymnastic based apparatus circuits and basic gymnastic skills Develop balance, coordination, spatial awareness and body control All in a purpose built gymnastics facility

Available for fetes, fundays, private parties, nursery graduations etc… Call Pete: 01628 821145 / 07721 422554 Email: diddydrivers@basilandcrew.co.uk Swimming Lessons for Children Weekly Term Time Lessons Downe House School, Cold Ash, Nr Thatcham • Monday and Thursday from 4:00pm • Saturday from 9:00am • Non-swimmers & Improvers from 3 ½ years • 6 children per class • 25 meter swimming pool • Indoor viewing gallery BOOK NOW! PLACES LIMITED! 07788 427227 Julie@maddenswimschool.co.uk | www.maddenswimschool.co.uk 01344 773237 www.pinewoodgymnastics.co.uk Book online now

Wokingham Family Golf is the perfect place to celebrate your child’s birthday party – with lots of ways to burn off excess energy and excitement! With a variety of birthday packages available, you can enjoy either 9 holes of FootGolf or 18 holes of Dinosaur Adventure Golf, plus exclusive access to their marquee and 5-a-side football pitch with samba goals for 2 hours. You can take your own food and drink to the party or get 20% off tasty pizzas from their café bar, to guarantee a fun and memorable time for all. Minimum number 12 players. To discuss your booking requirements, simply get in touch.

February Half Term 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, turtles, fish, Caiman, Goeldi monkeys and even a Sloth! Lizards free range as do most of the birds. Over the February half term enjoy our free with entry daily guided tours which are part of the celebration of Charles Darwin’s contribution to Science. The tour guides will point out all the things that are easy to overlooked. To guarantee entry and save time on arrival, pre-booking is strongly recommended. The Living Rainforest, Hampstead Norreys near Newbury. W: www.livingrainforest.org

The Look Out Discovery Centre

Discover a world of inspiration at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell, an interactive science centre perfect for a family day out. Whether you want to learn how to build a giant marble run, launch a hot air balloon, or play the laser harp, there is something for everyone in the science exhibition! Visit the outdoor playground and explore acres of woodland in Swinley Forest. W: www.bracknell-forest.gov. uk/leisure-services/look-outdiscovery-centre

West Berkshire Museum

The Museum is open every Wednesday to Saturday, 10am – 4pm. The Wharf, Newbury, West Berkshire, RG14 5AS. T: 01635 519562 W: www.westberkshireheritage.org

Weekly Classes at Cobbs Play Barn

There are some fantastic classes happening at Cobbs Play Barn near Hungerford every week: Yabba Dance Class, Wednesdays £7 per child. A dance class for under 5s with a focus on promoting confidence, and ownership of their dancing impulses. Boogie Mites, Thursdays £6 per child. Music, movement, and sensory class for under 5s. There are catchy songs, lots of instruments, fun props, and bubbles for you to enjoy. Visit cobbsplaybarn.co.uk to learn more.

Keep Warm this Winter in The Living Rainforest

The charity run visitor attraction is all-weather and indoors. There are 700 species of plants and animals that make it feel just like a real rainforest! With free parking and a great value annual ticket, it is a fantastic day out for families. W: www.livingrainforest.org

FEBRUARY

Thursday 2nd

Nursery Stay and Play Sessions

Are you interested in Early Years at Dolphin? Go along with your little one to a Nursery Stay & Play Session. 10:15am-11:45am on 2nd February and 16th March. Dolphin School, Hurst, Berks. Contact Kate Spooner at E: admissions@dolphinschool.com to book your place.

Wednesday 8th

– Friday 10th

Legally Blonde performance at Wellington College

Enjoy Wellington College’s performance of Legally Blonde where all the money raised goes to local schools! See page 5 for more details on how to apply for funds for your school and visit. W: www.wellingtoncollege.org.uk/grants W: www.wellingtoncollege.org.uk/whatson

Saturday 11th February

The Very Hungry Caterpillar is Coming to The Lexicon

Visitors to The Lexicon will be in for a treat this February as the town centre will be hosting a fabulous interactive trail based on Eric Carle’s best-selling children’s book, The Hungry Caterpillar. Running from 11th-19th February, in addition to The Hungry Caterpillar trail, there will be prizes to win, additional entertainment and other surprises. W: www.thelexiconbracknell.com

Wellington Country Park

The park re-opens today for the 2023 season. Riseley, near Reading. W: https://wellingtoncountrypark. co.uk/whats-on

Young Rangers

Wildlife club for 8 - 12 year olds, who love wildlife and nature and want to learn more and get involved at Woolley Firs Environmental centre, Maidenhead. W: www.bbowt.org.uk

Monday 13th

Half Term Day Camp

Fun activities involving your favourite night-time creatures. For 6- 12 years’ supervised by trained staff. No parental supervision required. Woolley Firs Environmental centre, Maidenhead. W: www.bbowt.org.uk

Super Seeds

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!

Create a seed growing starter set, make your own special seed labels and seed packets ready to plant seeds in your garden. £4 per child. Ages 5+. Reading Museum. W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Half Term Resilience Course

Life 101 runs life skills courses for children, covering topics such as leadership, resilience, and wellbeing. Their courses help to build children’s confidence, improve their ability to overcome adversity, help them to understand and regulate their emotions, and inspire them to want to go out into the world and create positive change. Also on 14th February, 10am-4pm. For ages 8-13. Floreat Montague Park Primary School, Wokingham, RG40 1BG. Bookings W: www.life-101.co.uk or E: hello@life-101.co.uk

Busy Bee Trail

See how many bees you can find in the museum galleries and find out lots more brilliant bee facts! Free, drop in. Runs until 18th February. Reading Museum. W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Museums, My Way at The MERL

This session for neurodivergent visitors of all ages, developed with Autism Berkshire provides a safe environment to explore The MERL. There are facilitated activities and a quiet break-out space. Siblings, families, carers and friends are all welcome. At this session, explore the theme of ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!’ as part of Museum Partnership Reading’s ‘Our Green Stories’ campaign. 10am-2pm, free, booking required. The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX W: merl.reading.ac.uk/whats-on

Create & Play: Valentine’s workshop!

Join in with the fun at Cobbs Play Barn this half term. Running from Monday 13th-Thursday 16th February from 10am-12pm. Children will create their own love heart cards to frame and give to their special someone this Valentine’s Day. Tickets £14 and includes 1 x card, all materials to decorate, 1 x A5 frame, 1 x child’s food box (sandwich, crisps & carrot sticks) 1 x child’s drink, and time to play in the Play Barn. Booking terms apply. Book online W: www.cobbsplaybarn.co.uk/ book-a-table

The Nosy Little Troll

A warm-hearted funny Scandinavian story, starring a tasty brown cheese song, a lost goat and a bushy old troll with green fingers. Garlic Theatre hold their young audience spellbound with wonderfully crafted troll puppets, live music, and lots of joining in. Shaw House, Newbury. W: https://booking.westberks.gov.uk

Create and Grow at Squires

Squire’s Garden Centres will be hosting February Half Term fun with a ‘Create & Grow’, ‘Paint a Bird Flowerpot’ activity (Booking required) as well as a ‘Bird Treasure Hunt’ (no need to book). Running 13th-17th February from 9.30am-1pm. Squires Garden Centres (excluding Badshot Lea and Chertsey). W: www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk

Tuesday 14th

Nature Printing

Get messy and use your imagination to make a printed picture using paint and recycled materials. Inspired by nature and objects from the collections at Reading Museum. Half-hour sessions 10am-12pm & 1-3pm. £1 pay on the day. Reading Museum. W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Object Exploration at the MERL

Explore and learn about fascinating museum objects linked to the theme of recycling and repurposing through a range of creative tasks. Suitable for families with children aged 5+. The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX. 10.30am2pm, free, book a 30 minute slot. W: merl.reading.ac.uk/whats-on

Movie in the Hall –Sherlock Gnomes

Garden gnomes, Gnomeo and Juliet, recruit Sherlock Gnomes to investigate the mysterious disappearance of other garden ornaments. Shaw House, Newbury. W: https://booking.westberks.gov.uk

Wild Discovery Day Camp

Join the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) for a wide variety of fun activities and wildlife exploration on this day camp for children aged 8-12 years old. Windsor Great Park. W: www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk

Small Group Family Art Workshop- Dinosaurs!

Whether you are a dinosaur expert or if you don’t know your Ankylosaurus from your elbow you’ll enjoy this great workshop from Armadillo Art Experience. West Berkshire Museum, Newbury. W: https://booking.westberks.gov.uk

Wednesday 15th

Half Term Day Camp –The Secret Badger

Learn fascinating facts at this Day Camp, for 6-12 year olds, full of activities. Supervised by trained staff, without parental supervision. Woolley Firs Environmental centre, Maidenhead. W: www.bbowt.org.uk

Family Activity Day

– You’re a Star

Decorate a ceramic star with paint pens to make an attractive decoration for your room. Shaw House, Newbury. W: https://booking.westberks.gov.uk

Victorian Schoolroom

Experience

Experience a Victorian school lesson, with a real Victorian school master. The Gateway, Reading Museum. Ages 5+. 10.30am and 2pm. W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Thursday 16th

Sunflower Amulets at the MERL

Join artist, Fong Scott, to make your own Sunflower Amulet using fabric scraps and unwanted clothing. Add seeds to take home and plant! All children must be accompanied by an adult. 10am-12noon and 2-4pm. £3, drop in. The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX. W: merl.reading.ac.uk/whats-on

Bee in a Bonnet

Put a bee in your bonnet, using papercraft and lots of craft materials to make a garden inspired bonnet, complete with its own bee! Ages 5+. Reading Museum.

W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Discovering Dinosaurs

Discover the truth about dinosaurs and fossils in these hands on sessions with the Collections Education Officer from Eton College. West Berkshire Museum, Newbury.

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

Friday 17th

Kazoo-Bees

Make a Kazoo-bee – a clever craft using just lolly sticks, elastic bands and paper, and your own imaginative decoration! Half-hour sessions 10am-12pm & 1-3pm. £1 per child. Reading Museum. W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Messy Museum Morning

Make a wooden pterosaur glider and then decorate with acrylic paint. As part of the session, you will also discover some fun facts about dinosaurs with a short and family-friendly illustrated talk. West Berkshire Museum, Newbury. W: https://booking.westberks.gov.uk

Sunday 26th

The MERL Green Explorers

MARCH

Friday 31st Wear A Hat Day

Get involved in Wear A Hat Day, one of the UK’s most popular annual charitable family-friendly fundraisers. Help children to explore their individuality and creativity, learn to work together and think of others – in a really fun way. All while raising funds to help find a cure for brain tumours – the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40. Register now for 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!

Connect with nature and build outdoor skills in these new monthly sessions with a local environmental education teacher and Level 3 Forest Leader. Themed around the museum collections and the changing seasons, each session will vary but will include activities such as shelter building, finding out all about birds, animals and insects in the MERL garden, identifying animals from the clues they leave behind, woodcraft tool use, and craft activities using natural materials. The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX. W: merl.reading.ac.uk/green-explorers

What do you want for your child’s education in the years ahead? It’s likely to be a great school, with excellent teaching, good facilities and nurturing care that helps a child flourish. We have some outstanding schools in the area that take pride in delivering just that. We’ve rounded up their latest news snippets to give you a flavour of what they can offer.

ELSTREE SCHOOL PROVIDES AN ENVIRONMENT FOR CHILDREN TO BE NURTURED AND INSPIRED

ARE

A CO-EDUCATIONAL INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL IN THE NEWBURY AREA?

This year, Elstree School celebrates its 175th anniversary. The school was founded in 1848 and moved to Woolhampton House in Berkshire in 1939, at the outbreak of WWII. Today, Elstree is a fully co-educational day and boarding school, welcoming children from 3 to 13 years old. With a rich history and traditional values, the school is forward looking and ambitious in their approach to combining academic achievement with exciting cocurricular opportunities and outstanding pastoral care. The boys and girls have a lot to look forward to in celebrating this important milestone for the school and in the bright futures that lay ahead for them. The next Open Morning is on Saturday 4th March. To book your place, please call or email the school directly. T: 0118 971 3302 E: registrar@elstreeschool.org.uk

W: www.stgabriels.co.uk/bookyourvisit

St Gabriel’s, the only co-educational independent junior and senior school in the Newbury area, combines academic rigour and breadth of opportunity with a strong sense of community. The school has an excellent academic record at both GCSE and A Level but places an equal emphasis on unlocking and developing talents outside of the classroom. At every stage of the school, pupils are encouraged to try, to question, to think critically, to work collaboratively, to persevere and to celebrate each other’s achievements. Register online for their Open Morning on Saturday 4th March.

All-girls independent nursery

Our Early Years Centre provides a curriculum that is holistic, innovative and uniquely tailored to support your daughter’s development. In addition, we offer specialist weekly teaching in dance, music and swimming - all within a warm, stimulating environment with amazing outdoor space.

To discover more, scan the QR code & visit nursery.theabbey.co.uk

A NURTURING ENVIRONMENT & PROVEN TRACK RECORD AT LONG CLOSE SCHOOL

Long Close is the leading independent day school in Slough, for boys and girls aged 2 to 16. Their small and nurturing school provides high quality teaching to all their pupils, in Nursery, Preschool, Primary and Secondary school years. As well as many of their pupils passing the 11+, they also pride themselves on the excellent GCSE results that their year 11 students achieve every year! On Saturday 4th March at 10am, they will be hosting an Open Morning. This is your chance to visit the school and to see for yourself how your child could benefit from a Long Close education. To find out more, please get in touch. T: 01753 520095 W: www.longcloseschool.co.uk

INNOVATIVE LEARNING LEADS AT QUEEN ANNE’S SCHOOL

Queen Anne’s School has been awarded the prestigious Microsoft Showcase School Award for four years running; an award that celebrates how digital technology shapes innovative education.

Technology is fundamental to all aspects of teaching and learning at Queen Anne’s. Students and staff work collaboratively to develop and review how technology is used in the classroom to ensure that the most effective practice is shared. Being able to offer every student the opportunity to sit their exams, digitally, is a unique feature and one which is embraced by the students.

“Technology in education is the future, and we are proud to lead the way.” Andy Dax, Head of Digital Learning.

Find out more about the world of opportunities on offer at Queen Anne’s School at the Open Morning on 3rd March 2023 visiting W: www.qas.org.uk

CROSFIELDS SCHOOL DELIVERS EXCELLENCE IN EARLY YEARS

At Crosfields School, they understand that a strong foundation in Early Years education is vital to any child’s future educational success. The Crosfields School philosophy is to deliver the very best early educational experiences for every

child, keeping up to date with the latest research, with classes designed by highly qualified teaching staff.

Crosfields delivers specialist teaching from Nursery, where children have opportunities in dance, swimming, music, French and PE. Children embrace outdoor learning due to their 6 dedicated Forest School sites and expansive woodland areas.

This is complimented with lots of indoor space to play and explore creativity. The depth of the 25-metre pool can be adjusted to ensure children of all ages feel confident in the water and can develop a love of swimming.

Fun and discovery are fuelled by snack times and lunch, where they provide a variety of healthy options, all included in the fees. The Nursery is open from 08:30-15:15 during term time. For those needing additional wrap-around care there is also the option of breakfast club from 07:45 and after-school care until 17:50. Join the next Stay and Play session to find out more about life at Crosfields. W: www.crosfields.com/events

THE ABBEY JUNIOR SCHOOL BECOMES AUTHORISED TO DELIVER THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE’S PRIMARY YEARS PROGRAMME

The Abbey Junior School, Reading, has become the first 3-11 girls’ school in the UK to be authorised to deliver the International Baccalaureate’s Primary Years Programme (PYP). The PYP is the outstanding curriculum for primary-aged students, helping young people solve tomorrow’s problems. What makes it special is that students are taught how to think and how to connect subjects, rather than memorising stale content in fixed channels. Students are inquirers and investigators, led by their own curiosity to pursue meaningful questions relating to the world in which they grow. The PYP, with its focus on holistic learning, challenge and presentation, is the best way to help girls cement and develop the skills they need for their own futures and to help drive social progress for all. W: www.theabbey.co.uk E: admissions@theabbey.co.uk

ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL WINDSOR CASTLE RECEIVES GLOWING REVIEWS

St George’s School Windsor Castle has become the first co-ed prep school in the Royal Borough to feature in The Good Schools Guide. The Guide, which prides itself on offering impartial and candid advice to parents across the UK, offers a comprehensive insight into the school’s Pre-Prep, Prep and Senior-Prep experience for children aged 3-13. Summarising their findings, the reviewer concludes: “Families who want a liberal, outward-looking education delivered by bright-eyed teachers in a small and nurturing urban haven (plus castle) may find their child’s happy ever after here.”

This positive endorsement echoes that of other independent school reviews, with Tatler describing St George’s in their 2023 Schools Guide as a school which “seamlessly blends the modern with the traditional” and Muddy Stilettos noting that “St George’s is leading the charge in educational reform as the UK’s first IB prep.”

“it’s a school with academic rigour, royal links and a place where kindness is king,” the latter then adds. Links to all the reviews, along with details of the school’s upcoming Open Mornings, can be found on the website. W: stgwindsor.org

HOLME GRANGE PREP SCHOOL

WHY CHOOSE AN INDEPENDENT EDUCATION?

Holme Grange Prep School is a vibrant and enriching environment; giving pupils the opportunity to thrive and flourish, supporting their curiosity for learning and providing challenges across all areas of the curriculum. The enthusiastic staff are dedicated to making the pupils time in the school an enjoyable, valuable and memorable experience. Importance is placed on treating every pupil as an individual, finding what makes them tick then using this understanding to encourage and motivate them. There is an emphasis on developing the ‘whole’ pupil promoting personal wellbeing and essential life skills with personal development programmes and teambuilding activities. As they progress, the opportunities to develop leadership skills increase. As well as in-class roles such as Form Captain and Eco Warrior, there are whole-school responsibilities: Head Boy, Head Girl, Peer Mentors, Newspaper Editors and Poet Laureate. The aim: to give pupils an inspiring and purposeful experience, well equipped for the future. W: www.holmegrange.org

“There are so many practical benefits for busy working families who are

school runs

meal times, then transporting

children to the next music/drama lesson/sports club/DofE session. Independent schools usually offer a longer day which is filled with a range of co-curricular activities, alongside academic learning. It’s

Samantha Greenwood, Senior Deputy Head, Pangbourne College.

W: www.pangbourne.com

juggling

with

their

generally acknowledged that independent schools offer a far greater range of non-academic activities such as rowing, horse riding and yoga, alongside opportunities to further your child’s education with trips and overseas travel. Class sizes are usually much smaller, which means pupils receive closer attention from the teachers. If your child has a particular interest in certain subjects or areas such as sport, music, drama or art, they can find support and stretch their needs to reach their full potential and the resources needed to nurture such talent.”

Thursday 16th February

THE NOISE NEXT DOOR – THE MYSTERIOUS MANSION OF MYSTERY

CORN EXCHANGE NEWBURY

www.cornexchangenew.com

Saturday 11th –Sunday 12th February

SHARK IN THE PARK

See all 3 of Nick Sharratt’s Shark in the Park books live on stage! Ages 3+. Tickets £14.75. www.cornexchangenew.com/ event/shark-in-the-park

Monday 13th –Thursday 16th February

HALF TERM ART CLUB – SPRING 2023

Experiment with different art techniques and creative projects! For ages 6-11.

Monday 13th –Friday 17th February

CREATE AND MAKE SPRING 2023

Creative fun in the school holidays. Activities include arts and crafts, drama and more!

Sunday 19th

February

Tuesday 14th

February THE AMAZING BUBBLE MAN

Discover the magic, art, science, and fun of bubbles with bubbleologist, Louis Pearl! Suitable for all ages. 11.30am and 2pm. £16.75 under 18’s £13.75. www.cornexchangenew.com/ event/the-amazing-bubble-man

Saturday 25th March SING-A-LONG-

ENCANTO

Gather la Familia and prepare to sing your heart out as you enjoy Disney’s Encanto, with lyrics on screen so everyone can join in!

NORDEN FARM CENTRE MAIDENHEAD

https://norden.farm

Tuesday 14th –Wednesday 15th February BREATHE

An extraordinary journey from the perspective of an acorn, with puppetry and folk music.

Take a tour of the world’s most bewildering building with comedy heavyweights The Noise Next Door.

Friday 17th February

NICK SHARRATT’S ALL NEW PICTURE BOOK DRAW ALONG

Join the much loved children’s writer and illustrator in a family-friendly, fun filled draw-along for all ages.

Saturday 18th February HALF TERM CONCERTINI

WITH STRING FEVER

The electric string quartet are talented and funny delighting children of all ages.

Saturday 11th March HULLA BALLOONY MOON TIME

A marvellous moonlit show based on the book Pat-a-Cake Baby.

Saturday 18th March

MOTHERS DAY CONCERTINI WITH ROGUE OPERA

An uplifting family concert performed by Rogue Opera’s professional singers.

READING ARTS

whatsonreading.com

Thursday 9th March

TIM PEAKE- MY JOURNEY TO SPACE

A fascinating insight into what it’s really like to be an astronaut; from training to launch, spacewalk to re-entry, Tim reveals the secrets, the science and the everyday wonders of how and why humans journey into space.

SOUTHHILL PARK BRACKNELL

www.southhillpark.org.uk

Tuesday 14th –

Saturday 18th February GANG SHOW

–50TH SHOW

An evening of quality entertainment put on by young people from local Scout and Guide groups. Performing a mixture of songs, dances, and comedy sketches.

HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSON – THE UGLY DUCKLING AND OTHER STORIES

Four of Hans Christian Andersen’s most well-loved stories: The Ugly Duckling, The Princess and the Pea, The Steadfast Tin Soldier, and The Emperor’s New Clothes. With tales of friendship, love and plenty of silliness, there is something for everyone in this brand-new production.

Saturday 25th –Sunday 26th February

ARTEMIS STUDIOS THE WIZARD OF OZ-YOUNG PERFORMERS EDITION

A one-hour adaptation of the timeless tale, in which young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas, over the rainbow, to the magical Land of Oz. There, she encounters a host of whimsical characters: good witches, bad witches, animals that talk, scarecrows that walk, and things magical to behold. This familyfriendly show features many of the songs you know and love from the film.

G.W.A PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

Wellington College, Crowthorne www.wellingtoncollege.org. uk/booknow

Wednesday 8th –Friday 10th February

LEGALLY BLONDE

Wellington College pupils stage regular music and drama performances. The funds raised from ticket sales are then made available to local schools to aid their own arts education. Schools can bid for grants of up to £1,000. Wellington College would love to be able to offer more schools the opportunity to apply W: wellingtoncollege.org.uk/grants

This year’s upcoming performances include Legally Blonde the Musical, Two Gentlemen of Verona and the stage adaptation of 1984. In addition, there are various music concerts including the Crowthorne Community Minibus Concert.