Primary Times Berkshire - October Half Term 2022

HELLO READERS!

As we embrace this colourful new season, it’s time to get the cosy winter woollies out and make the most of the crisp autumn weather and all the activities on offer for families this half term.

We promise there are some seriously good things going on to get you out of the house this holiday and we’ve included them all in this issue! You’ll find ideas for great days out, including fantastic indoor destinations such as science shows and interactive museums if the weather lets us down, and lots of Halloween events for child-friendly, happy haunting. A great excuse to dig out the kids’ creepy costumes! Check out our diary pages too and you’ll see you could easily fill every day of the half term with fun, affordable (and often free) things to do if you wanted!

Christmas will soon be on the horizon, and you’ll find previews of what’s in store on page 20 to inspire some festive planning with pantos and gift fairs galore! We’ll be back again in November with a merry issue full of festive treats to plan your Christmas countdown. In the meantime, we wish you happy times with your children this half term.

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EVENTS

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FAMILY

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NEWBURY BUILDING SOCIETY HELPS TEACH PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS ABOUT THE BENEFITS AND REWARDS OF SAVING

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 long-term 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

Newbury Building Society’s JNBS (Junior Newbury Building Society) initiative promotes positive discussion of saving and spending by providing hands-on financial education to local primary schools.

JNBS was launched in 2008 to support the school curriculum and engage children aged 7 and older in learning about saving money. With just four schools on board at the start, the scheme has grown considerably with schools of all sizes across Berkshire, Hampshire, and Oxfordshire choosing to take part.

Supported by the Newbury team and their teachers, pupils are empowered to run a JNBS branch in their school as cashiers, teaching them about saving money and building their financial confidence in an interactive way. They take money from savers, count it out, and update record of receipt cards, ensuring everything is done correctly. Each time a child pays in, they receive a sticker. Certificates are also provided at key savings milestones, fostering a sense of achievement as balances increase bit by bit.

For more details about JNBS, or to see whether your child’s school is already involved, please visit www.newbury.co.uk

– WITH YOUR SUPPORT, HELP CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH A VISION

LIFE

Lauren Weaver is guide dog owner and primary Teaching Assistant who has been working at a school in Wokingham for 15 years. Her current guide dog, Nelson, has been coming to work with her for around 8 years, with her previous guide dog Watson doing the school shift before that. “Nelson is brilliant at helping me to get to school and navigate a busy environment, but is also a calming presence in the classroom. He does a great job of making the children more aware of my visual impairment and helping teachers, parents and children alike to understand.” Having Nelson at school has inspired classes to learn more about having a guide dog, and many of Lauren’s classes have chosen to raise money for Guide Dogs in order to Name a Puppy. Why not join their appeal this October and get baking to make a difference? To find out more about this fundraiser, Guide Dogs and how your school can arrange a speaker or get involved, visit their website. W: www.guidedogs.org.uk

FAMILY AND CHILDREN EMPOWERED – CELEBRATE THE UNIQUENESS OF YOU AND YOUR EXPERIENCES

FACE therapeutic holistic services have proudly opened a service that offers support for both parents and children. They cater for pre-school children, young people and parents, offering individual or group work sessions. During the first session, depending on which service package you require, they will help you to explore what wellness looks like for you. They are an approachable and welcoming service to all. Therapy may be the kindest gift that you can give your family. For full details of the services they can offer, please visit their website. W:www.facetherapyconsultancy.co.uk

ACTION PACKED, 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 includes sports, arts and crafts, cooking, traditional games and toys, gaming consoles, outdoor adventures, treasure hunts, den building, bouncy castles and so much more! 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 real life Disney princesses and superheroes! Days are 8am-6pm with morning (£20), afternoon (£20) and all-day sessions (£36) available. All activities & snacks are included. Block book the whole week or pick and choose the days, the choice is yours. Book their October Half-Term Holiday Club at Crown Wood Primary School, Nine Mile Ride Primary School and NEW Holiday Club, Wooden Hill Primary School from 24th - 28th October. W: www.beehiveclub.co.uk

LVS ASCOT INSPIRES PUPILS TO EXCEED THEIR EXPECTATIONS

LVS Ascot is an award winning, all-ability, independent day and boarding school that inspires boys and girls from 4 to 18 to exceed their expectations and become independent adults. The school celebrates individuality and offers a rounded education that delivers academic rigor alongside sporting, performing and creative opportunities. LVS Ascot facilities include: infant & junior school environmental garden, indoor swimming pool, fully equipped 250 seater theatre with state of the art light and sound, learning resource centre, astro pitch, fitness centre and wellbeing hub. Proud of its excellent academic & pastoral care, staff across the school work together to ensure that every student’s personal development is nurtured, believing that encouragement and support are essential to help young people become caring, confident citizens for the future. W: www.lvs.ascot.sch.uk

LEIGHTON PARK SCHOOL OFFERS ACHIEVEMENT WITH VALUES, CHARACTER AND COMMUNITY

Leighton Park was founded in 1890 and is a day and boarding school for girls and boys aged 11-18 set in 65 acres of beautiful parkland in Reading, Berkshire. Winner of the Best Co-educational School 2021, South East England, the School has been fully co-ed since 1993 and has a 50:50 ratio of girls to boys at its Year 7 entry point.

ENJOY THE JOURNEY AT UPTON HOUSE

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 extracurricular 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

The UK Government’s latest Sixth Form league tables reveal Leighton Park to be the best performing School in Berkshire. Their A Level students achieved 72% A*/A last year. The Independent School Inspectorate (ISI) awarded Leighton Park a ‘double excellent’ standard in January 2022, the highest possible attainment for an independent school. Visit them to learn more about an education offering achievement with values, character and community. W: www.leightonpark.com/visit-leighton-park

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF DEDICATION AND COMMUNITY AT CROSFIELDS

Crosfields School has seen a lot of change over the years. In the last 20 years they have become co-educational (2007), Ellie Simmonds opened their new swimming pool (2013), Princess Beatrice officially opened their memorial garden (2015) and, most recently, they celebrated the opening of the new, award-winning, Senior School Building (2021). At the start of this term, three members of their community, Mr Stuart Young, Ms Aley Rose, and Mrs Sheila Mitchell all celebrated 20 years’ service at the school and received a token of gratitude. They are lucky to have several staff who have been with them for a significant part of their careers. It is this dedication to the school and pupils that enables them to empower each individual within their community. One of the teachers said; ‘the journey has been amazing. It makes me proud to think of the many lives on which I have had an impact.’ Congratulations to all three recipients! Read more about the school online. W: www.crosfields.com

FUN AT THE FARM

OCTOBER HALF TERM EVENTS

As the nights draw in, it’s time for some half term fun with spooky events, creative costumes and plenty of tricks and treats! This season, get ready for creepy trails and tales and pumpkins galore! And if friendly-frightening is not for you, there are plenty of destinations, without the scares! Read on for our pick of the best half term entertainment.

ENJOY A TROPICAL DAY OUT AT THE LIVING RAINFOREST THIS HALF TERM

The Living Rainforest is a super day out for all the family. Their tropical rainforest is filled with plants and animals including birds, monkeys, frogs and reptiles. Lucky visitors may even even see the free-roaming sloth! This October half term, their events and activities will focus on poisonous and venomous species, to tie in with Halloween, so prepare to be informed and a little scared! The events will include keeper-led animal feeds, children’s activities, workshops, and guided walks through the rainforest, all free with normal admission. With average temperatures around 24°C, you are guaranteed a bit of endless summer even when it rains! W: www.livingrainforest.org

SPARK THEIR IMAGINATION AT THE LOOK OUT’S AMAZING FIRE AND LIGHT SHOW

Have you ever wondered how fireworks get to be such amazing colours? Or have you ever been curious about spontaneous combustion? Full of fantastic demonstrations to FIRE your imagination, the Fire and Light show is coming to The Look Out Discovery Centre this autumn! The Look Out Discovery Centre boasts a vast outdoor playground open all day, every day, delicious food and drinks at Woodlarks Café, acres of woodland walks, all along with the captivating science exhibition, full of hands-on exhibits. Try out building a flying machine on the wind table, meeting some stick insects or making music out of laser lights! Tickets are available online for admission and additional activities. W: www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisure-services/look-out-discovery-centre

HAVE A SCREAM AT BROAD ST. MALL THIS HALLOWEEN

Visit Broad St. Mall this Halloween on Saturday 29th October, from 11am-4pm, and enjoy a FREE terrifying transformation with their fantastically fearsome face painters and creepy caricature artists. You’ll also have the chance to collect a free pumpkin to take home and carve. Plus, don’t miss your chance to snap a spooky selfie at their pumpkin patch which will be located in Central Square between 22nd – 31st October. W: www.broadstreetmall.com

FESTIVAL OF FRIGHTS CREEPS INTO NEWBURY TOWN CENTRE FOR A LONG HALLOWEEN WEEKEND

A fiendishly good festival of free, spook-tacular events comes to Newbury this Halloween! The four-day ‘Festival of Frights’ runs from Wednesday 26th to Saturday 29th October with a Ghost Town Family Trail and Frightful Fun Days for families at Parkway Shopping. The Ghost Town Family Trail, from 11am to 4pm each day, invites families to visit haunted venues, collecting hidden letters at each one, to reveal a secret word to enter a competition offering a whole cauldron of spook-tacular prizes! Plus, enjoy freakishly good Halloween-themed arts and crafts at the Corn Exchange, on Northbrook Street from The Watermill Theatre, and at Parkway Shopping. Family-friendly Frightful Fun Days will also be at Parkway Shopping and you can find out more on the website. Find more details of all the events online.

W: https://visitnewbury.org.uk/ghost-town-family-trail

EXPLORE LIGHT AND SOUND AT MERL THIS HALF TERM

This October half term at The Museum of English Rural Life in Reading, enjoy free workshops, trails, activities, crafts and more on the theme of ‘Light and Sound’. There’s plenty to do whenever you visit, from playing on the tractor or meeting the chickens in the garden to trying out a make-and-take activity, or the new Autumn Family Activity Pack from their gift shop. You can also book a place for Museums, My Way, a session for neurodivergent visitors, sign up for an Object Exploration session or even book a fun carnival dance or steel pan band workshop with CultureMix Arts! W: https://merl.reading.ac.uk/whats-on

PHOTO: ELLIE PINCHES

Head to Cobbs this autumn to visit their bespoke wooden Play Barn. The space is a fun, engaging and educational environment for children and their adults alike! With two levels to discover and explore children can really let their imagination run wild. For peace of mind during busy times, you will be able to book a table in their Play Barn online. And don’t miss lots of seasonal family activities this autumn, including essential pumpkin picking from 10am-3pm on the 16th-31st October – just turn up, no need to book! The Bus Café will be open for milkshakes, hot drinks, snacks and cakes too! W: www.cobbsplaybarn.co.uk W: www.cobbsfarmshops.co.uk

SPECIAL HALLOWEEN FUN AT THE FARM

Head down to Bucklebury Farm Park for spooky fun, games and something special for the Halloween weekend! From Saturday 22nd – Monday 31st October, discover a Spooky woodland trail, Halloween games, face painting, a Scarecrow trail, and Emma the Storyteller with Spooky Tales to send a friendly tingle down your spine. If you get dressed up you can win a prize! There’s pumpkin carving to enjoy, including a pumpkin, carving kit and space to make a mess! You can book and pay for this online (£8), additional to the entry price for the farm; after 3pm the entry fee is discounted. W: www.buckleburyfarm.co.uk/halloween

READING FRINGE FESTIVAL

SATURDAY 29TH OCTOBER

This autumn sees Reading Fringe Festival return inperson for the first time since its record-breaking 2019 edition, with a special one-day, all-ages celebration on Saturday 29th October. Reading’s Aldworth Philharmonic Orchestra will perform at the stunning concert hall within the Town Hall: a pay-what-you-can, family-friendly programme alongside Reading Youth Orchestra at 4pm, a recital at 6.30pm featuring German toy piano specialist Frederike Moller and a full-orchestra gala concert in the evening including a world premiere and Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No 2. Venues across the town will be home to the free and interactive Troops to Hoops table top games in partnership with Time Trap Escape Rooms. More information and booking can be found online! W: www.readingfringefestival.co.uk

FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR FAMILY RACEDAY AT ASCOT

JOIN THE PUMPKIN TRAIL AND GLOW WALK TO HELP SUPPORT BERKSHIRE FAMILIES

First Days Children’s Charity have two new family events raising funds to support families in Berkshire experiencing financial hardship. From 22nd – 30th October, take part in a Pumpkin Trail at California Country Park. Pick up a map from Jackson’s Cafe, follow the trail, laugh at the jokes and head back to the cafe to be rewarded with a treat (or trick!) Maps available for a suggested minimum donation of £3 from Jackson’s Café. On the 26th November, see Dinton Pastures glow on a Glow Walk. Walk around Black Swan Lake under starlight and take in the illuminated woodland. Hot chocolate, hot dogs, mulled wine and glow sticks available to buy so adorn yourselves with as many light up accessories as you can… the brighter the better! Slots from 5pm – 8pm. Tickets available from www.firstdays.net/events

There will be plenty of things going bump in the night at this spooktacular Family Raceday on Saturday 29th October. The Ascot Round Table join forces with Ascot Racecourse to produce what has been described by many as the “best firework display in Berkshire”. The magnitude of the display will not disappoint as guests can enjoy this breathtaking pyro-musical show featuring over 20,000 fireworks launched from the centre of the track. Racegoers can expect an abundance of spooky activities and fairground rides alongside thrilling racing action. Fairground rides are free during racing then from 4pm they are charged at £1 with all proceeds from the rides and profits from the day donated to local charities. Tickets from £30pp; Kids Go Free with a full paying adult. W: www.ascot.com

BRILLIANT BATS AND ALL THINGS SPOOKY AT READING MUSEUM

This Halloween, from Saturday 22nd October to Saturday 29th October, (don’t miss their special Monday opening!) there are plenty of spooky fun activities at Reading Museum, including a Brilliant Bats Trail all week along with a free activity cart. Join in with their Rolling Rivers Collage and help decorate a Reading river at night. Make A Fishy Picture with their sewing group, experience the Victorian Schoolroom, make a fab Flappy Bat and finally, create your very own Jam Jar Aquarium. Looking forward to Christmas already? This year they are bringing back their popular Father Christmas’ Victorian Winter Grotto, and Forgetful Elf Trail! Book online. W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Make it an endless summer at The Living Rainforest

OCTOBER

Saturday 15th

Romans Family Fun Day

Drop-in and meet the historical re-enactors from Butser IX Legion in period costume who will tell you about life in Roman Britain, as well as demonstrate skills that you can have a go at. There will be an opportunity to take part in Romaninspired crafts and activities as well as to complete a themed trail. West Berkshire Museum. 10am-3pm. W: https://booking.westberks.gov.uk

Monday 17th Cobbs Milkshake Bus

The Cobbs double decker bus café will be reopening for the October half term from 17th-30th October. You’ll be able to hop aboard the top deck, and enjoy delicious, freshly made milkshakes, autumnal hot chocolates, and homemade toasties. Cobbs Farm near Hungerford. W: www.cobbsfarmshops.co.uk/ cobbs-hungerford

Wednesday 19th

Halloween Create and Play

Children will build their own decoration (Pumpkin house) for Halloween in the double decker bus café before exploring the bespoke wooden play frame. Tickets £10 and include a Halloween decoration to take home, a trick or treat, a child’s drink and entry into the play barn. Also on October 20th, 26th, 27th. Cobbs Farm near Hungerford. Book online: W: https://cobbsplaybarn.co.uk

Friday 21st Wasing’s Pick Your Own Pumpkins & Woodland Trail

Follow the enchanting woodland trail through Wasing Estate’s stunning autumnal woodland & encounter creatures inspired by those living in our trees & fields, including bats, spiders & snails. Head to the pumpkin field to pick your own organic pumpkins. 21st – 30th October Tickets £5 (Adults & Children aged 2+). Under 2s free. Free parking. Wasing PYO Pumpkins, Wasing Lane, Aldermaston, RG7 4LY.

E: events@wasing.co.uk

W: www.wasing.co.uk/events

Saturday 22nd Pumpkin Picking

Running until 30th October at Cobbs Farm, Hungerford. When you arrive at Cobbs, grab yourself a wheelbarrow and make your way over to the pumpkin picking fields, return to the farm shop to pay for your pumpkins!

W: www.cobbsfarmshops.co.uk

Devastation to Restoration

To link with the 30th anniversary of the devastating fire within Windsor Castle, take part in craft activities and fun informative workshops this October half term. Running until 30th October.

W: www.windsor.gov.uk/whats-on

Hallo’Welly’Ween

Family fun Halloween week! A week of family activities including pumpkin carving, Spooky Shows, Play Village, ZooLab creepy crawlies and much more. Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road, Berks. Running until 30th October.

W: https://wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

Scarecrow Trail

Go along and get have an autumn adventure on the new scarecrow trail. Explore the grounds of Cliveden National Trust Property as you find scarecrows made by local community groups. Finish up at the craft tent to make your own bamboo spoon scarecrow. Other dates available.

W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Halloween Fun at the Farm

Halloween events at Bucklebury Farm from 22nd-31st October.

Pumpkin Carving (additional fee), Scarecrow Trail, Halloween Crafts, face painting, games and crafts.

W: www.buckleburyfarm.co.uk

Reading Museum

Plenty of spooky fun activities at Reading Museum, including a Brilliant Bats Trail, Rolling Rivers Collage, and help decorate a Reading river at night. Make A Fishy Picture with the sewing group, experience the Victorian Schoolroom, make a fab Flappy Bat and finally, create your very own Jam Jar Aquarium. Running until 29th October. Looking forward to Christmas already? This year they are bringing back their popular Father Christmas’ Victorian Winter Grotto, and Forgetful Elf Trail! Bookings: W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

First Days Children’s

Charity Pumpkin Trail

Pick up a map from Jackson’s Cafe, follow the trail, laugh at the jokes and head back to the cafe to be rewarded with a treat (or trick!). Maps available for a suggested minimum donation of £3 from Jackson’s Café. Until 30th October at California Country Park, RG40 4HU. W: www.firstdays.net/events

Young Rangers –

Windsor Great Park

Wildlife club for young people aged between 8-12 years. Discover the mysteries of local wildlife from birds and butterflies, moths & trees. 2-4pm. W: www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Monday 24th Spooky Half Term

Fun Craft activities from 24th-28th October at Squires Garden Centres. W: www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk

Museums, My Way

Part of a series of sessions for neurodivergent visitors of all ages, developed in partnership with Autism Berkshire. Facilitated activities in this session will focus on the theme of light. 10am-2pm. The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX. T:0118 378 8660 Book at W: https://merl.reading.ac.uk/whats-on

George and The Dragon

In Garlic Theatre’s award winning production, a delicious mix of wit, humour and inventiveness combine to celebrate one of the most famous medieval legends of all time. Ages 5+. Shaw House, Newbury. W: https://booking.westberks.gov.uk

Rolling Rivers Collage

Find out what plants and animals you might find around Reading’s rivers at night, draw and colour your own artwork, and add it to Reading Museum’s collage or take it home! W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Half Term Art Club

Go along to art club and experiment with different art techniques and creative projects at the Corn Exchange, Newbury. Until Thursday 27th Visit W: https://cornexchangenew.com

Private

Brilliant Bats Trail

Learn about bats in this trail around Reading Museum. Running until 29th October. W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Autumn Family Fun

Family activities with an autumnal theme. 10am–12:30pm or 1:30–4pm. Iver Nature Centre near Slough.

W: https://iverenvironmentcentre.org

Action Packed, 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 includes sports, arts and crafts, cooking, traditional games and toys, gaming consoles, outdoor adventures, treasure hunts, den building, bouncy castles and so much more! Book their October Half-Term Holiday Club at Crown Wood Primary School, Nine Mile Ride Primary School and new Holiday Club, Wooden Hill Primary School from 24th – 28th October. W: www.beehiveclub.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!

Tuesday 25th Make A Fishy Fabric Picture

Join the sewing volunteer team and make a simple applique picture. Ages 7+, half hour sessions, 10am – 12pm £2 per child, includes sewing kit to take home with you. Book in advance or pay on the day (6 places max per session). Reading Museum. W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Junior and Teen Sailing Weeks

Learn to sail during the holidays. The Junior Sailing Weeks progress through the RYA Youth Sailing Scheme Stages 1-4 and are suitable for 8-16 year olds. Weeks available for ages 13-17. Dinton Pastures Country Park near Wokingham. W: www.dintonpastures.co.uk/activities/holidayclubs-junior-8/junior-sailing-weeks

Steel Band

Explore your musical creativity and become part of a steel pan band in this workshop led by members of Reading All Steel Percussion Orchestra (RASPO) . 11am – Children aged 5+and accompanying adults. 12pm –Aged 11+ (no adult required) Museum of English Rural Life, Reading. Book at W: https://merl.reading.ac.uk/whats-on or T: 0118 378 8660

Private fostering is when a child under the age of 16 (under 18 if disabled) is cared for by someone who is not their parent or a ‘close relative’. This is a private arrangement made between a parent and a carer, for 28 days or more. Close relatives are defined as step-parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, uncles or aunts (whether of full blood, half blood or marriage/affinity).

If you have knowledge of what

a Private Fostering

suspect

www.westberks.gov.uk/

It is likely that everything is fine but it is a legal requirement that the parent/carer inform their local council.

Carnival Dance

Get into the spirit of carnival and learn some unique dance moves to Caribbean soca and calypso music. 12pm - Children aged 5+ and accompanying adults. 11am - Aged 11+ (no adult required). Museum of English Rural Life, Reading.Book at W: https://merl.reading.ac.uk/whats-on or T: 0118 378 8660

Bewitching Bat Trail

Travel into the bat cave, through the dark forest and around the eerie pasture and become bewitched by brilliant, bewildering bats. 10am-2pm. Windsor Great Park Environment Centre, Windsor Great Park. W: www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Wednesday 26th Batty About Bats

Halloween Trail

A spooky, bat-themed Halloween trail through our nature reserve.

Recommended for families with children ages 4-11. 10am-2pm. Nature Discovery Centre. W: www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Family Activity Day –

Monsters Rock Again!

Make a monster using a pebble and paint pens - it will make a scarily good Halloween decoration. Shaw House, Newbury. W: https://booking.westberks.gov.uk

Wednesday 26th – Saturday 29th

Ghost Town Family Trail, Newbury

Join the Ghost Town Family Trail from 11am to 4pm. Visit the ghoulishly decorated themed windows across town and collect the hidden letters to reveal a secret word and enter the Halloween competition boasting spook-tacular prizes. Plus, there will be freakishly good Halloweenthemed arts and crafts taking place for spine-tingling fun at the Corn Exchange, on Northbrook Street from The Watermill Theatre, and at Parkway Shopping. Running until 29th October. Find out more at: https://visitnewbury.org.uk/ghosttown-family-trail

Object Exploration sessions at The MERL

Explore fascinating museum objects linked to the theme of light through a range of creative tasks. 30 minute slots from 10.30am to 2pm. Free.

Children aged 5+ accompanied by an adult. Museum of English Rural Life, Reading. Book at W: https://merl.reading.ac.uk/whats-on or T: 0118 378 8660

Spine Tingling!

Help-a-Hedgehog

Help your local hedgehogs with crafts to make & take home and beautiful autumn colours. £5 per child. Woolley Firs Education Centre, Maidenhead.

W: www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Thursday 27th

Make and Take- Flappy Bats

Drop in and make your very own fun flappy bat. Families, half-hour sessions 10am–12pm & 1–3pm £1, pay on the day, drop in. Reading Museum. W: www.readingmuseum.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!

Friday 28th Jam Jar Aquarium

Use colourful tissue paper, glitter and a touch of imagination to make a mini aquarium complete with plants and fishes – no water necessary!

Ages 5+, Families, 1-hour sessions starting at 10am, 11.15am, 1pm & 2.15pm £4. Reading Museum.

W: www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Saturday 29th

Fireworks Spectacular

Family Raceday

Community event at Ascot Racecourse run in conjunction with Ascot Round Table. With over 20,000 fireworks to a pyro-musical show. Spooky activities and fairground rides alongside thrilling racing action. Tickets from £30pp, Kids Go Free with a full paying adult.

T: 01344 346 3000 W: www.ascot.co.uk

Reading Fringe Festival

A special one-day celebration for all-ages. Reading’s Aldworth Philharmonic Orchestra will perform at the stunning concert hall within the Town Hall: a pay-what-you-can, family-friendly programme alongside Reading Youth Orchestra.

W: www.readingfringefestival.co.uk

Upton House School

Based

the heart of Windsor,

Pre-Prep

House

a

Have a scream at Broad St. Mall this Halloween

Visit Broad St. Mall this Halloween and enjoy a FREE terrifying transformation with our fantastically fearsome face painters and creepy caricature artists. You’ll also have the chance to collect a free pumpkin to take home and carve. The fun starts 11am – 4pm. Plus, don’t miss your chance to snap a spooky selfie at their pumpkin patch which be located in Central Square between 22nd – 31st October. W: www.broadstreetmall.com

Sparks in the Park

Sparks in the Park is a fun evening for the whole family, with bonfire, live music, great food, drinks and a professional firework display. We will be Spooky Sparks this year as the dates fall over the Halloween weekend. The event runs 6pm-8pm, for more information and to book tickets visit W: https://sparksinthepark.net

Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th October Christmas Gift Fair & Food Market with Santa!

A family day out not to be missed, now in its 13th year! You will find everything you need for Christmas with a wide variety of stalls and delicious food, all undercover in beautiful, heated marquees and the Mansion House; plus Santa in his Grotto. Free parking. 10am-4pm. Trunkwell House, Beech Hill, Reading, RG7 2AT. T: 0118 988 3754

W: www.trunkwell.com

NOVEMBER

Thursday 3rd Open Mornings

Crazies Hill C.E.

Primary School, 9:30 -10:15am. Also on December 7th and January 6th. Email to book a visit: office@crazieshill.wokingham.sch.uk

Saturday 5th

Wizards and Witches Fireworks

Fantastic fireworks at the Royal Windsor Racecourse. Earlybird family ticket £36.

W: www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk

Sunday 6th Woodley’s MEGA Baby & Children’s Market

Over 35 stalls, packed with nearly new baby and children’s items at bargain prices. Featuring a few small businesses, perfect for Christmas gifts; goody bags; free craft activities and more. Entry £2, kids go free.10.30am-12.00pm. Woodford Park Leisure Centre, Haddon Drive, RG5 4LY. W: www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk

Thursday 17th Kingdom of Illumination

For the first time, the gates of Wellington Country Park will open at dusk to reveal a kingdom of illumination. Perfect for all ages, step out under a star-lit sky and enjoy an illuminated quest with your friends and family. Running on selected dates until 23rd December.

W: www.neverlandilluminova.co.uk

Saturday 19th Newbury Christmas Lights Switch On

Following the success of last year’s Christmas Lights Switch-On, there will be a day-long family-focused festival from 10am-6pm.

In Newbury Town Centre.

W: https://visitnewbury.org.uk

Sunday 20th

Coles Christmas Market

Over 20 stalls selling local crafts, gifts and treats, Food, drinks and games too! 12-3pm. Free entry. Arlington Arts Mary Hare RG14 3BQ. Raising money for local charities and the youth club for deaf children & young people.

W: www.facebook/colesdiner

Children’s Screen Print a Halloween T-Shirt

Join Berkshire Printmakers to create your own original ‘spooky’ t shirt design to scare your friends when Trick or Treating. At the Corn Exchange, Newbury. Visit W: https://cornexchangenew.com

Dance Reading

From 29th October – 3rd December, workshops and shows for all ages at venues across Reading including Little Murmur at South Street on November 19th. W: https://whatsonreading.com/ venues/south-street/whats-on/ little-murmur

Cobbs Open Air Cinema – Hocus Pocus

An evening of spellbinding family fun. Tickets start at £5 + booking fee. Take your own picnic or enjoy hot food and drink from Cobbs. Doors open at 4pm and film will play at 6pm. Fancy dress encouraged! Tickets: W: www.cobbsfarmshops.co.uk/openair-cinema

Monday 31st

Hallowe’en Activity Session

Take a torch in the is early evening

Halloween themed session. 4.30-7pm. Iver Nature Centre near Slough. W: https://iverenvironmentcentre.org

Saturday 12th – 13th Craft & Design Fair at South Hill Park

Come along to their free entry Craft & Design Fair and enjoy some of the UK’s best handmade crafts. Artists join them from around the country to show and sell their fabulous hand-crafted items, providing beautiful, unique gift ideas and festive wares. 10am to 5pm W: www.southhillpark.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!

One

Junior

FAMILY

ARLINGTON ARTS

www.arlingtonarts. ticketssolve.com

Monday 24th October LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD

A wolf in granny’s clothing knows all about what fun dressing-up can be and in Little Red Riding Hood the magical wardrobe opens its doors to a fantastic display of gorgeous garments as you will be taken down the path into the snowy wild wood where you’ll hear catchy songs on the wind and spot hilarious puppets between the trees.

BRITVIC THEATRE

Ascot

www.oceantheatre.com/ whats-on

Friday 28th –Sunday 30th October

THE ADDAMS FAMILY

“They’re creepy and they’re kooky, mysterious and spooky, they’re altogether ooky!” The Broadway musical sensation comes to the BritVic Theatre.

CORN EXCHANGE NEWBURY

cornexchangenew.com

Friday 28th October FIREMAN SAM

When all of his friends go away, Norman Price decides to find adventure in Pontypandy and become the star of a visiting circus.

Saturday 29th October THE DARK

Laszlo is afraid of the dark. The dark lives in the basement. It doesn’t visit Laszlo in his room. Until one night it does.

Sunday 30th October MORGAN AND WESTUNBELIEVABLE SCIENCE

Morgan & West present captivating chemistry, phenomenal physics, and bonkers biology in this fun for all the family science extravaganza!

Wednesday 9th November THE NUTCRACKER

A wonderful treat full of glitter for the whole family!

Saturday 12th November NICK COPE

Join Nick Cope, star of CBeebies’ Popcast for his popular family music show.

NORDEN FARM CENTRE FOR THE ARTS

Maidenhead nordenfarm.org

Saturday 29th October SPOOKY CONCERTINI WITH JOHNNY AND THE RAINDROPS

Full of spooky songs to get you and the kids shakin’ like a Skeleton, moanin’ like a Zombie and stompin’ like a Monster. Johnny and the Raindrops promise to get children and grown-ups dancing and moving, singing and grooving.

Tuesday 29th November –Friday 30th December ONE SNOWY NIGHT

Percy the Park keeper always feeds the animals in the park where he lives. But one cold winter’s night Percy finds his little friends shivering on the doorstep – they need more than food and he must find a way to help them… A snuggly, fun and heart-warming story, with songs to sing along to and furry friends to meet.

READING ARTS

whatsonreading.com

Sunday 16th October SING-A-LONG-AENCANTO

From the producers of Singa-Long-a Sound of Music and Sing-a-Long-a Frozen, the smash hit film musical of 2021 about the Family Madigral with lyrics on screen that everyone can’t stop singing.

Tuesday 25th October POP PRINCESSES

This is the children’s pop concert with a big difference. A musical spectacular starring four fabulous Fairy tale Princesses who just love to sing! It’s the perfect mix.

Wednesday 26th –Thursday 27th October RAPUNZEL AND THE TOWER OF DOOM

Theatre of Widdershins have taken this traditional tale right back to its roots, teased out the tangles and styled it into a beautifully coiffured hair piece! This enchanting show promises plenty of body, volume and loads of highlights.

Saturday 19th November LITTLE MURMUR

Performed by Aakash Odedra Company & The Spark Arts for Children. As part of Dance Reading Festival 22. This beautiful show will delight audiences of any age with its stunning images, technology, dance and humour.

SOUTH HILL PARK

Bracknell

Sunday 23rd October BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Set to a stunning classical score, this production will showcase new choreography by Artistic Director, Christopher Moore, as well as feature new sets and costumes created especially for this production.

Tuesday 25th October MORGAN AND WEST UNBELIEVABLE SCIENCE

Morgan & West present captivating chemistry, phenomenal physics, and bonkers biology in this fun for all the family science extravaganza.

Wednesday 26th October NICK SHARRATT’S HALLOWEEN DRAWALONG

Join much loved children’s author and illustrator, Nick Sharratt, for a special Halloween themed drawalong. He’ll be sketching gently spooky characters from a selection of his fun-filled picture books,

including the hugely popular You Choose’, Shark in the Park’ and ‘Pants’ series. And you can draw along with him. Ages 4yrs+

Thursday 27th October

THE DINOSAUR SHOW

Join Hunter and Shelly as they step back 65 million years on their mission to rediscover the Lost Kingdom of the Dinosaurs. The Dinosaur Show brings a host of pre-historic creatures to life and the opportunity for you to see them up close. Ages 3+.

WATERMILL THEATRE

Bagnor, Newbury

Box office: 01635 46044 www.watermill.org.uk

Thursday 27th October – Saturday 5th November

THE SLEEPING SWORD

A tale about magic, mystery, hope, love, triumph and disaster. The Sleeping Sword weaves a contemporary tale of selfdiscovery with Arthurian legend.

fee fi fo fUn for all the family at the corn exchange pantomime!

and directed by Plested broWn and Wilsher

For the first time, Wellington Country Parks gates will open at dusk to reveal a kingdom of illumination. Perfect for all ages, step out under a star-lit sky and enjoy an illuminated quest with your friends and family. Immerse yourself with imaginative storytelling and let colour and sound awaken your senses and turn the great outdoors into a symphony of light. This is a night-time adventure with magical light at the heart of its 17th November to 23rd December treat yourself and those you love this winter. This is no ordinary light walk, this is Neverland Illuminova. For full details and to book your www.neverlandilluminova.co.uk

TRUNKWELL HOUSE PRESENTS THEIR CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR & FOOD MARKET

Get into the festive spirit at this fun, family day out at Trunkwell House, Reading on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th October, from 10am-4pm. You’re sure to find everything you need for a sparkling Christmas with a wide variety of unique, enticing stalls and delicious food, all under cover in their beautiful marquees and the mansion house, plus little ones can enjoy a visit with Santa and his Elves in his Grotto. There’s free parking and refreshments served all day. T: 0118 988 3754 W: www.trunkwell.com

ENJOY A TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS CHRISTMAS AT ROSEBOURNE WONDERLAND

Along with tempting treats and festive fare in the food hall, Rosebourne has some magical and inspirational themed displays, showstopper decorations, stylish homeware and fabulous gift ideas along with seasonal plants and a great selection of fresh and artificial Christmas trees. Their restaurants will be serving a delicious 2-course Christmas Allotment lunch and there’s no need to book for parties of 7 or fewer (group bookings can be made online). Father Christmas will also be visiting, but book early as they have limited availability for the Breakfast and Tea with Father Christmas events. New for this year, they will also be serving a Nutcracker Afternoon Tea – a delicious way to enjoy the festive season with family and friends. W: www.rosebourne.co.uk

CHRISTMAS FUN AND INSPIRATION AT SOUTH HILL PARK’S CRAFT FAIR

From Saturday 12th –Sunday 13th November, go along to South Hill Park’s free entry Craft and Design Fair and enjoy some of the UK’s best handmade crafts. Artists join them from around the country to show and sell their fabulous hand-crafted items made with pearls, glass, ceramics, silver, wire, wood, paints, candles and much more,

providing beautiful, unique gift ideas and festive wares. And don’t miss their Christmas pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, filled with laughter, silly songs, colourful characters, slapstick comedy, and guaranteed festive family fun for all! W: www.southhillpark.org.uk

FEE FI FO FUM... IT’S TIME FOR MAIDENHEAD PANTO FUN!

HA Events present this year’s magical pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk – a GIANT of a show suitable for the whole family!

Join them at Braywick Leisure Centre in the Baylis Theatre and get ready to cheer on our hero Jack to defeat the Giant, save the village and his best friend – Daisy the cow! Packed with all the traditions of pantomime and featuring the feisty, fun-loving Dame Trott. Expect animated scenery, sensational songs, delightful costumes, plenty of audience participation and belly laughing comedy. Performances run 17th – 24th December at 1:30pm & 5pm each day (1:30pm only Christmas Eve). Book your tickets online. W: www.maidenheadpanto.co.uk

LET DOWN YOUR HAIR WITH RAPUNZEL THIS CHRISTMAS AT THE WATERMILL THEATRE!

THE CORN EXCHANGE NEWBURY PANTO IS BACK AND FULL OF BEANS!

Head to the Corn Exchange Newbury this festive season, from 25th November –31st December, for a pantomime adventure full of Fee Fi Fo Fun for all the family in Jack and the Beanstalk! When Jack sells the beloved family cow for some magic beans, a beanstalk climbing adventure begins! But as Jack reaches the top, he finds a mystical castle in the cloud and a very friendly giant. Can Jack and the gang defeat the giant and become rich beyond their wildest dreams? This hilarious, fresh take on a much-loved pantomime is packed with plenty of jokes, songs from across the decades and magic in GIGANTIC proportions!

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK AT SOUTH HILL PARK

Following South Hill Park’s most successful pantomime ever (Cinderella 2021), the magic and mayhem return to the Wilde Theatre with a brandnew version of the timeless tale Jack and the Beanstalk running from Friday 25th November – Saturday 31st December. Follow country-living Jack on this hilarious, fee-fi-fo-fun-filled adventure as they sell the family cow for a handful of magic beans and climb the towering beanstalk. But what awaits them above the clouds? Will the find their fortune in sparkling treasure? Join them for a larger-than-life festive season filled with laughter, colourful characters and enchanted harps and hens. W: www.southhillpark.org.uk

Join The Watermill Theatre for another magical Christmas show! Rapunzel is a lively adventure through the rolling hills and dark forests of Italy with music, magic pigs, and plenty of surprises! A fun and witty take on the classic tale. Rapunzel runs from Friday 18th November to Sunday 1st January, tickets from £12 or take advantage of the theatre’s Family Pass and get 4 tickets from £40 - £80, available until 17th December. To find out about the theatre’s accessible performances visit their website. Box Office T: 01635 46044

www.watermill.org.uk/rapunzel_2022

JOIN US AT THE HEXAGON FOR A PANTO OF GIANT PROPORTIONS

Once again The Hexagon will have all the ingredients for a perfect family panto, with a dastardly villain, a hapless comic and a hilarious panto dame, as well as fabulous musical numbers and bags of slapstick fun! Running from 3rd December – 2nd January. Book your tickets now for this ‘moo-vellous’ family friendly panto which will leave everyone aged 4 to 104 feeling full of ‘beans’! W: www.whatsonreading.com/venues/hexagon/ whats-on/jack-and-beanstalk

A lesson on thinking differently with...

DR ALEX GEORGE

Primary Times gets some useful insights from Dr Alex George about the importance of encouraging children to take charge of their mental wellness.

Dr Alex George is known and loved by many for his honest and approachable take on how we should all care for our mental health. He’s currently the government-appointed Youth Mental Health Ambassador, which means it’s his job to help shape children’s mental health education and support in schools. Now he has wriמּen his first book for children, A Beמּer Day, which was created to be a positive and practical guide for children to learn how they can care for their mental wellbeing with confidence.

The book covers all kinds of relevant and helpful topics for children aged 9-11, arming them with the skills they’ll need to deal with everything from peer pressure to exam stress, online bullying and anxiety.

Dr Alex shares his thoughts about why he wrote this fantastic book…

“It’s easy to think of mental health in terms of just problems, or something that needs to be fixed. I want us to think differently. It’s not all about people looking sad with a rain cloud looming over their heads. It’s also about feeling happy, relaxed and able to deal with any situation life throws at us. Mental health can mean lots of things, and by learning to connect with what’s going on inside our minds, we can turn it into a force for good.

“As the Youth Mental Health Ambassador appointed by the Prime Minister, I’m determined to make a change for the beמּer. None of us are born with an instruction manual that shows how to keep our minds in good shape. We have to get to grips with it as we grow up, and that can be challenging.

“At the same time, I learned from experience that we don’t have to do this alone. Help and advice is always out there for us all, and not just for those moments when we’re finding life tough.

“I passionately believe that the sooner we make sense of our thoughts and

feelings, the beמּer equipped we’ll be to make the most of our lives, which is why I’ve wriמּen A Beמּer Day. I want to make mental wellness something to celebrate.”

Dr Alex’s book isn’t just about reading good advice, it’s filled with practical exercises too!

A Beמּer Day, Your Positive Mental Health Handbook is available to buy now in paperback for £9.99

A BREATHING EXERCISE FROM THE BOOK:

Primary Times were lucky to receive a extract from the book to show you one of the many helpful exercises you can try!

‘Some people find that breathing exercises help to ease the symptoms of anxiety. This is because when you breathe deeply, it increases your oxygen levels and sends a message to your brain that tells it to relax. Breathing exercises don’t take very long and even beמּer they can be done anywhere.

Here is one you can try:

With relaxed shoulders and your head upright, breathe

slowly and deeply through the nose.

Feel your lungs filling with air, then breathe out slowly through the mouth.

Purse your lips to be sure the air leaves nice and gently.

Repeat the process for a minute, or until you feel a sense of calm return.’