Primary Times Northamptonshire - February Half Term 2024

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FEBRUARY HALF TERM ISSUE 115

29TH JANUARY - 10TH MARCH 2024

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Discover family friendly fun at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery and Abington Park Museum this half term www.northamptonmuseums.com Follow us for all the latest updates

HALF TERM FUN • PARTY IDEAS • LOCAL NEWS • WHAT’S ON

2 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

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Hello Readers, Welcome to our first issue of 2024! We hope you’ve had a good start to the New Year and your children have re-settled into daily school life.

Winter is now upon us, offering up its bare trees and frosty weather, but that’s no reason to hunker down at home all season! Instead of waiting for the warmer weather to return, pull on your winter woollies and take advantage of the change of season by creating a list of cold-weather activities and fun things to do. Kids (and parents) will benefit from a fun and active half term break, so we’ve featured some fabulous places and family entertainment throughout this issue. Don’t worry - lots of options are undercover so you can have a brilliant time and dodge the wind and rain if needed!

We’ve also included some party planning ideas children’s birthdays come around fast and there’s always lots to organise, so why not enlist the help of some tried and tested party specialists? They will take care of the entertainment so you can have some fun too!

We’ll be back again in March, when the warmer days are on the horizon, with lots of exciting Easter news and local events for your calendars.

Until then, we wish you all a very happy half term break with your families.

INSIDE Northamptonshire

04 08 HALF TERM FUN PARTY GUIDE 10 WOW 12 COMPETITIONS 13 BOX OFFICE 14 IN THE NEWS The latest news from in and around Northamptonshire

A selection of fun activities for February half term

Great party ideas for planning those important birthdays

What’s on Where! A variety of places to visit this season

February Half Term 2024 PUBLISHED BY Moonscape Media Ltd 0118 972 4980 office@primarytimesmag.com EDITOR Michelle Dilger DEPUTY EDITOR Louise Fry PRODUCTION Nathan Pretlove ADVERTISING Niki Whitwell & Suzanne Mason LISTINGS EDITOR Suzanne Watson FEATURES EDITOR Helen Chitham

Your chance to win with our amazing competitions

An array of theatre, arts and films in the area

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in Northamptonshire. It aims to inform families and children about current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses, attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or by joining in the competitions. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically based material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Northamptonshire for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or with the relevant contributor.

Primary Times is currently publishing over 2 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout the UK. Primary Times Northamptonshire is operated under franchise licence.

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FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 3

NEWS

LOCAL NEWS FROM NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

INSTRUMENTAL AND VOCAL LESSONS AVAILABLE IN SCHOOLS - CHECK OUT THE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE FOR YOUR CHILD WITH NMPAT

LEARN AND DEVELOP AN ESSENTIAL LIFE SKILL WITH NORTHAMPTON SWIMMING CLUB

Northampton Swimming Club is a not-for-profit organisation that provides swimming lessons and coaching every day after school and at weekends for children of all ages, in and around Northampton. They are based at The Northampton High School, The Duston School, Weston Favell Academy and Headlands School. Their classes range from Parent and Baby lessons to advanced lessons, to development squads and international swimmers within their competitive programme.

They are a Swim England SwimMark accredited club with fully qualified teachers and coaches. Their aim is to help children to gain a life skill, improve water confidence and learn new techniques in a fun and safe environment, whilst achieving badges and certificates at every level. During school holidays, they host intensive swimming and stroke development courses to aid the progression of each swimmer.

For more information, please contact Sophie Ings.

E: coach.ings@northamptonswimming.com

SEE WHAT A NORTHAMPTON HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION COULD DO FOR YOUR DAUGHTER AT THEIR OPEN DAY THIS MARCH Northampton High School have started this term with a bang! The PreSchool have commenced their swimming lessons, the Junior School are enjoying their first ever twilight forest school sessions and all students are looking forward to welcoming their parents in for a social and a Mother’s Day afternoon tea soon. Community and enrichment activities are certainly celebrated at this school. The next Open Day event is Friday 8th March and would be an excellent opportunity to have a look for yourself. Everyone is invited to go along and see the benefits a Northampton High School education would bring for their daughter.

Please visit the website to find out more.

W: www.northamptonhigh.co.uk 4 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

NMPAT enables music and artistic education opportunities for children and young people. The Trust has a national reputation for the quality and consistency of its provision and alumni can be found in nearly every conservatoire and professional orchestra in the country!

Small group and individual instrumental and vocal lessons are available in schools across Northamptonshire - a ‘one stop service’ providing teachers who are specialists in their instruments, fully trained and certified on the latest child protection thinking, aware of the latest developments and requirements in the delivery of music teaching and who put their students’ interests at the heart of everything they do.

Students are provided with instruments free of charge for their first year of learning and encouraged to participate in additional NMPAT activities - Saturday Music and Arts Centres, Contemporary Centres, auditioned County Ensembles, Youth Theatre and more. Ask your school about opportunities for lessons with NMPAT or visit their website.

W: www.NMPAT.co.uk

DO YOU WANT TO MAKE YOUR TODDLER’S WEEKEND MORE FUN?

Rugbytots is the world’s favourite rugby-based play programme for girls and boys aged 2-7 years old.

Their fun-filled, energetic and high-tempo classes take your Rugbytot on a journey of discovery and imagination. The classes use the principles of rugby to develop hand-eye coordination, key motor skills and teamwork in a secure and friendly environment.

Whether it is protecting your ‘egg’ from pirates, exploring the world with amazing discoveries or running through Rugbytots valley avoiding ‘boulders’, the classes have children and parents grinning from ear to ear. Their motto is simple - ‘Make it more fun’.

FREE taster sessions are available where space in class allows, please email c.lancaster@rugbytots.co.uk for details.

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Primary NEWS

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FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 5

Primary NEWS

ROYAL & DERNGATE PRESENTS MOBY DICK, A GLORIOUS ADVENTURE ON THE HIGH SEAS!

Set sail on an unforgettable journey on the high seas in this stunning new retelling of Moby Dick, suitable for families with children aged 7+, hosted by the Royal & Derngate, Northampton from the 5th-13th April.

In search of fortune and adventure, a humble schoolmaster boards a whaling ship due to sail East off Cape Cod, only to find a Captain hell-bent on revenge - on the whale that lost him his leg. So begins the quest for Moby Dick.

Simple8 conjure the spirit and atmosphere of Herman Melville’s masterpiece, creating a captivating world at sea with wooden planks, tattered sheets and rousing sea shanties, as the hunt for the most famous whale on earth is ingeniously brought to life.

T: 01604 624811 W: www.royalandderngate.co.uk

HELP THE ENVIRONMENT - RETURN YOUR USED OR UNWANTED INHALERS TO THE PHARMACY

Spring can be a time when asthma symptoms increase, and inhaler use may be more frequent than usual. But did you know putting used or unwanted inhalers in the bin can cause them to leak gases, which can contribute to global warming? Please help us to stop this. Inhalers need to be incinerated to prevent greenhouse gases and your local community pharmacy can support with this. There is no charge to you for using this service.

So, the next time you are collecting inhalers from your local community pharmacist, remember to take your used or unwanted inhalers with you so your local pharmacy team can arrange for them to be safely disposed of.

For more information about this service please visit www.icnorthamptonshire.org.uk

CYGNETS PRE-SCHOOL NURTURES CHILDREN TO GAIN CONFIDENCE AND INDEPENDENCE

Cygnets Pre-School in Wellingborough is a term time community group who are part of the Hope Church and Elim Pentecostal church. They have two large playrooms for each year group, for ages 2-3 and 3-4 years, plus a number of gardens for physical play including a bike track, undercover area, a wild area and a larger, astroturfed garden suitable for all year-round use. They aim to provide a warm, inviting and safe environment in which children are able to relax, play and enjoy all the facilities and opportunities on offer. (Ofsted number: 2507285 Rated Good.) If you would like further information, or to arrange a visit please contact Tracy or Anne.

T: 01933 673882 / 07917 692885 E: cygnets@hopechurchwellingborough.com W: www.cygnetspreschoolwellingborough.com

6 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

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Primary NEWS

CREATE BRIGHTER FUTURES TOGETHER WITH THE OLD STATION NURSERIES

Located in Harpole, Little Houghton and Wellingborough, The Old Station nurseries provide full time and part time care for children aged 0-5 years old, with available sessions all year round. What matters most across all the nurseries, is that children feel safe and happy and leave nursery with a love for learning, and the possibility to succeed in all that comes next. Each nursery is truly unique, with a rich and diverse curriculum, ensuring no two days are the same.

The qualified and passionate nursery team aim to inspire, innovate, and nurture, to Create Brighter Futures Together for children and their families. Available spaces for this spring, summer and beyond. Funded places are available.

Please visit their website to book a tour.

W: www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk

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DANCE AND EXERCISE FOR ALL

Northamptonshire School of Dance and Pilates deliver classes in RAD Ballet, IDTA Street Jazz, ISTD Contemporary, IDTA Tap, IDTA Musical Theatre, Body Control Pilates, Yoga, Barre, Dance Fit and Singing every week at their spacious studios in Naseby, Northamptonshire. They would love to share the many benefits that dance, and exercise offers: 3 Fitness 3 Muscle strength and endurance 3 Improved posture and balance 3 Cognitive function 3 Coordination and motor skills 3 Increased focus and concentration 3 Creativity 3 Appreciation of varied musical genre 3 Confidence 3 Social interaction and connection 3 Emotional expression 3 Sense of achievement 3 Musicality But above all... a wonderful time full of fun and enjoyment.

Please contact them for more information!

E: admin@northamptonshiredance.co.uk

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 7

Half Term FUN

Looking for some fun activities to keep young minds entertained? There are lots of family-friendly events and activities taking place this February half term and beyond.

Read on to plan a memorable and happy half term for all, right on your doorstep!

CELEBRATE 25 YEARS OF THE GRUFFALO WITH AN EXCITING FOREST ADVENTURE

Head off to West Lodge Farm and enjoy the energetic buzz of one of the busiest farming times of the year from the 17th-25th February!

There is so much to do - it’s a full family day out! You can bottle feed the baby lambs, visit cuddle corner for small animal handling and you may even be lucky enough to see one of the 100 ewes give birth! Take a walk on one of the many nature trails around the farm, jump on-board for a free barrel ride, and depending on the weather, you can let off steam in the indoor adventure barn or go wild in the outdoor adventure play area! After all that fun, re-fuel the troops in their large and welcoming Family Restaurant to finish off the day.

Forestry England’s Fineshade Wood and Salcey Forest are thrilled to announce a year-long celebratory trail launching on 24th January, to mark the 25th anniversary of the award-winning book, “The Gruffalo”.

The Gruffalo’s 25th Birthday Trail is a party in the forest and families are encouraged to work together to search for missing party items whilst enjoying fun and games along the way. For those looking to enhance their experience, an accompanying trail pack is available to buy for just £4. This fantastic celebratory trail will captivate Gruffalo fans of all ages, so plan your visit today.

W: www.forestryengland.uk/gruffalo-party-trail

T: 01536 760552 W: www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk

HAVE A SWASHBUCKLING HALF TERM AT WESTON FAVELL SHOPPING CENTRE!

BURN ENERGY, HAVE FUN AND GAIN CONFIDENCE WITH PROACTION MARTIAL ARTS

Proaction Martial Arts, the national award-winning martial arts school in Northampton, is opening its doors to new students in 2024, and not only in the 4-6 year old category. They have classes specifically for 7 to 13s, as well as adults and families too. During February, they will be repeating their successful Holiday Camp where you can book your child (age 6-12) for a fun-packed two days on Monday 19th and Tuesday 20th February, from 8.30am to 5pm. The kids will be welcomed to a purpose built, welcoming facility, for an action-packed two days, making new friends, burning lots of energy, and having unlimited fun!

You can book your child’s space at www.reactionsport.com or visit the main club web site to book a free trial lesson www.martialartslessons.co.uk

A FUN, GOLFING ADVENTURE FOR ALL THE FAMILY! Look no further for the ultimate family day out! Paradise Island Adventure Golf is open seven days a week at the West Terrace - Rushden Lakes.They’ve got two indoor 18-hole adventure golf courses set amidst a tropical paradise. The adventure doesn’t stop there! Their 19th hole gives all adventure golfers the chance to win a free game at the end of the journey, what could be better? Prices start from £8.50 per child for one round (18 holes) and £12.50 per child for two rounds (36 holes), and a family ticket is £34.00. For full prices and to book, check online.

W: www.paradiseislandgolf.com

From Monday 19th to Sunday 25th February, children are invited to the Favell Fun Club for some FREE pirate-themed activities and a treasure hunt in the shopping centre. Then, on Wednesday 21st February from 11am to 3pm, join the crew for a Pirate pARRty, where you can enjoy free snacks, WIN prizes for the best-dressed pirate, get your face painted and take part in a craft activity. You can even meet the Pirates of Northampton! For more details, visit online.

W: www.westonfavellshopping.com

DISCOVER DAYS OUT ACROSS NORTHAMPTONSHIRE WITH NATIONAL TRUST

From wintery adventures in nature, outdoor family trails and welly wanders, to seasonally inspired crafts, activities and games, there are lots of events and activities on offer this February half term from the National Trust. Whether you’re exploring miles of woodland, gardens and landscapes as a family on cold, crisp winter days, or looking for indoor activities and a warming lunch to escape from the rain, whatever the weather the National Trust has something to entertain you and your family. Wander through the gardens at Canons Ashby and enjoy the first signs of early spring with the beautiful snowdrop stories trail, suitable for families or story-loving adults alike.

If you’re looking for somewhere where the children can let off some steam, Lyveden is the perfect place for a family day out. From spotting birds and fish on the moat to discovering what’s growing in the orchard there’s lots of fun to be had in the great outdoors.

This February half term over the border in Warwickshire at Upton House, little ones can discover which minibeasts love the gardens and make a bug snug to take home.

W: www.nationaltrust.co.uk

FAMILY FRIENDLY FUN AT NORTHAMPTON MUSEUMS & ART GALLERY

There is plenty to do for children and parents of all ages at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery and Abington Park Museum. From weekly pre-school Mini Museum Explorers sessions to their Drop In Wednesday family activity afternoons during school holidays, as well as fun family trails and bookable children’s workshops. Entry to the museum is free and it is open six days a week, closed on Mondays.

Why not pop in to explore their exciting permanent and temporary exhibitions, visit the café and shop or take part in one of their bookable children’s activities or workshops, particularly this February or Easter time. You can book online, in person or over the phone.

W: www.northamptonmuseums.com

8 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

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National Trust/ John Millar

FLOCK DOWN TO WEST LODGE FARM FOR A FULL DAY OF FUN!

Half Term FUN

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FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 9

Party GUIDE

Run out of ideas for birthday fun? Fear not - we’ve rounded up a whole host of fabulous destinations and interesting things-to-do to guarantee a wonderful birthday celebration for little ones! Even better, you can relax and enjoy the fun too at any one of these great, family-friendly venues.

EVERYONE ACTIVE AT DAVENTRY LEISURE CENTRE T: 01327 871144 W: WWW.EVERYONEACTIVE.COM

A soft play birthday party is perfect for kids and at Daventry Leisure Centre, their fabulous parties will give kids memories that will last for years to come. Parties combine adventure, fantastic fun, and safety, all in one go. Across one 90-minute session, the soft play area will be available to your child and their friends, meaning they can climb, explore and play games. The soft play is open to juniors only, with the recommended age limit being eight years old. Adults will need to supervise the children.

Daventry Leisure Centre is run by Everyone Active in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council, and Everyone Active colleagues will ensure parents from the local community have an enjoyable, stress-free experience on the day. Call in at reception for more details, phone or go online.

STANWICK LAKES

E: INFO@RFTRUST.ORG.UK W: WWW.STANWICKLAKES.ORG.UK

Looking for the perfect birthday party venue?

Consider The Discovery Zone at Stanwick Lakes! An exclusive space at the Visitor Centre, it has a nature-themed wall mural, ample room for play, coat-hooks, and its own entrance, all just steps from the outdoor play areas. Choose from either a Pottery Painting or nature-inspired Craft Party package, from just £9 per child. Enjoy a stress-free experience with room hire for up to 24 children, activities, personalised welcome board, and even two parking spaces included! You can also opt for room hire only and arrange your own entertainment, or simply use the room as a base to play outside. Extras such as gift bags and cake-making available. To book your child’s unforgettable adventure, email them or download their new party leaflet from the website.

TIGERS INDOOR PLAY

T: 01327 312188 W: WWW.TIGERSPLAY.CO.UK

IRON PIT WOODS ADVENTURE

All children having their birthday party at Tigers Indoor Play will receive a fantastic birthday present - one month’s FREE unlimited entry pass! For only £15 a child; enjoy two hours of Play Time with a dedicated party host, hot buffet food, unlimited cordial drink and a throne chair for the Birthday Child! There are three themed AIR-CONDITIONED party rooms and you can upgrade your party by adding Go-Karts or Laser Tag for only £35.

T: 01536 401020 E: EVENTS@HICORBY.COM

Look no further if you are arranging your child’s birthday celebration! At Iron Pit Woods Adventure, they have put together party packages that not only keep all the children entertained but give them a thrill of adventure. These packages include playing the 18-hole woodland themed adventure golf course and taking on the six-meter-high aerial assault course, finished with an exhilarating 41m zipwire. If this wasn’t enough, you will get your own private party room to carry on the birthday celebrations and enjoy a well-earned bite to eat. Or why not go along with some friends to just take part on the activities… The birthday child goes for FREE!

WEST LODGE FARM PARK

T: 01536 760552 W: WWW.WESTLODGERURALCENTRE.CO.UK

West Lodge is a perfect party venue with play areas, pony rides, animals to cuddle and an indoor adventure barn, together with a range of party packages to suit all ages and budgets! The party room is in the Old Grain Adventure Barn where you will enjoy their homemade party meal. As well as admission to the farm park for the whole day, there is free animal food for every child and an option to book extras, such as party bags, birthday cake and food and drinks for the adults. Their options include Classic, Toddler, After School and Friday Evening After School parties.

10 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

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Party GUIDE

WHILTON MILL KARTING AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES T: 01327 843822 W: WWW.WHILTONMILL.CO.UK

In children’s party top trumps, a visit to Whilton Mill is a winner! As the UK’s most raced at outdoor go-kart circuit, the buzzing atmosphere combined with such an exciting activity, makes for a truly memorable day out. But it’s safety first - all children’s parties start with a safety briefing from their instructors, who are onhand throughout the event to provide coaching and encouragement. Party packages are suitable for children aged from 6-13, and young racers need to be a minimum of 1.22m tall to take part in go-karting sessions. Whilton Mill, located just outside Daventry in Northamptonshire, has three packages to choose from: archery, off-road buggies, and of course, go-karting. Prices start from just £35 and there is a minimum booking of six children. Food is included, along with medals for all and a trophy for the birthday girl or boy!

WICKY’S PLAY FACTORY

T: 01536 512475 E: PLAYFACTORY@WICKSTEEDPARK.ORG W: WWW.WICKSTEEDPARK.ORG

Wicky’s Play Factory is an exciting, indoor play area that your little ones will love, especially at their own birthday party! Let their imagination run wild whilst they explore all the soft play area! With thrilling slides, multiple levels of soft play obstacles and joyous ball pits. All parties include a range of yummy pizza, nuggets, hot dogs and chips and start from £210 for 20 children. The fun-filled party package includes 90 minutes of play, a hot buffet, unlimited squash/water and a dedicated party table. Additional children may be added once the date is selected but are subject to availability. Please note the maximum guest age is 8 years old.

Golf Adventure & Aerial Zip Wire birthday packages VIK party packages. Birthday child FREE! Mini golf, high ropes, party food & party room.

1 round of 18 Hole Golf (ages 5-12) from £17.95 1 round of 18 Hole Golf (ages 12+) from £19.95 2 circuits of High Ropes (ages 8+) from £27.95 Combination of both! 1 round of 18 Hole Golf & High Ropes x2 circuits (ages 8+) from £32.95 events@hicorby.com

Corporate team building packages Have you thought about corporate packages inclusive of team building activities?

Call/email to book in today for mini golf and high ropes to break up your meeting. events@hicorby.com

For bookings and enquiries please contact ironpitwoodsadventure@hicorby.com or visit www.ironpitwoodsadventure.co.uk and follow us on facebook and Instagram for up to date information

Holiday Inn Corby - Kettering A43 | Geddington Road, Corby, Northamptonshire, NN18 8ET Tel: 01536 401020 Email: ironpitwoodsadventure@hicorby.com @ironpitwoodsadventurecorby

/ironpitwoodsadventure

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FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 11

WOW – What’s On Where

Saturday 17th February

TO DO LOCA THINGS LLY N U F

WOW ON WHERE WHAT’S

in Northamptonshire

Soft Play

Lambing Festival West Lodge Farm Park www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk Bottle feed the newborn lambs! Plus you can visit the pregnant ewes in the lambing shed, and you might even see a ewe giving birth! Running 17th-25th February and pre-booking is essential during these dates.

Feathery Fun

Ongoing Karting & Activities Whilton Mill Karting www.whiltonmill.co.uk Keep the kids entertained during the school holidays with a visit to Whilton Mill Karting & Outdoor Activities. As the UK’s most raced at outdoor go-karting circuit, there’s always something on. With arrive and drive sessions available for children aged 6 and up from just £25 per driver.

Lyveden New Bield

National Trust/ John Millar

www.nationaltrust.org.uk Whether you want a short stroll around the grounds, or a longer walk along the Lyveden Way, a 10-mile waymarked path through sheltered woodland, open fields and pretty villages, there are plenty of ways to see more of the Northamptonshire Countryside.

Zog Trail

www.forestryengland.uk/zog Join Zog on a forest adventure and collect golden stars at Fineshade Wood and Salcey Forest. Featuring a fun trail pack and app.

Iron Pit Woods Adventure Holiday Inn Corby www.ironpitwoodsadventure.co.uk Adventure golf, aerial assault course and 41-metre zip wire, the adventure area will be ideal for family days out, birthday parties and corporate team-building days - giving employees a day of friendly competition and a feel-good event to remember.

Swimming Lessons with Everyone Active Various Locations www.everyoneactive.com Award-winning swimming lessons at your local Everyone Active leisure centre, for children aged from just 4 months old. Available at Moulton Leisure Centre and Daventry Leisure Centre.

Golfing Adventure

Meerkat Feeding Wicksteed Park www.wicksteedpark.org Wicksteed Park has a new Meerkat feeding experience. Pay from £50 for two people and you will have the opportunity to hand-feed the meerkats, under the guidance of the expert animal keepers.

Forest Adventure 25 years of The Gruffalo

www.forestryengland.uk A yearlong celebratory birthday trail awaits at Salcey Forest and Fineshade Wood to celebrate the award-winning book ‘The Gruffalo’. Search for missing party items with family fun and games along the way.

Mini Museum Explorers Northampton Museum & Art Gallery www.northamptonmuseums.com Hands-on and fun pre-school sessions for the under-fives. Held on Friday mornings during term time with a different theme each week. Children’s snack and adult tea/coffee included.

Booking is essential. £4 per session.

Running until 22nd March.

12 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

Paradise Island Adventure Golf, Rushden Lakes www.paradiseislandgolf.com They have two indoor 18-hole golf courses set amidst a tropical paradise!

Open seven days a week.

Stanwick Lakes www.stanwicklakes.org.uk Lots of fun this half term including spring bird trail, bird-themed crafts & activities, pottery painting, play area, assault course & adventure trail, miles of paths to explore by foot or bike, visitor centre and cafe! Running throughout February half term.

Canons Ashby near Daventry www.nationaltrust.org.uk Wander through Canons Ashby and discover what people have believed about these delicate and beautiful blooms through the years. Runs until 25th February.

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!

Outdoor Tuesday - Apple Birdfeeders Lyveden New Bield near Oundle www.nationaltrust.org.uk Help look after your local birds this winter by making a tasty bird feeder.

Turn an apple into a hanging birdfeeder this February half term (£1).

Abington Park Museum www.northamptonmuseums.com Enjoy a bird themed trail around Abington Park Museum and find out about their feathered friends. £2 per child. Suitable for families. Collect your trail in the museum. Running until Sunday 25th February.

Abington Park Museum www.northamptonmuseums.com Celebrate the avian world and make cute wool birds for a decorative window hanging to take home. All materials supplied. Ages 5+. All children must be accompanied by adult. £4 per child.

Booking essential. 1-2pm and 2.303.30pm.

Sunday 18th February

Wednesday 21st February

Deene Park

Drop-In Wednesday

www.deenepark.com Swathes of snowdrops, of all varieties have shaken off the winter blues and are saying ‘hello world.’ Step into the gardens of Deene Park this February and enjoy these shy, delicate beauties for yourself. The Gastropod will also be onsite both days serving drinks and a selection of takeaway gourmet options.

Adult £6.50, children under 16 are free.

12-1pm, also on 25th February.

Northampton Museum & Art Gallery www.northamptonmuseums.com Visit the museum for family fun - games, scavenger hunts, colouring sheets and puzzles, stories and dress up, as well as simple craft makes! Free. Drop-in, 12-4pm.

Thursday 22nd February Craft Thursday - Wild Wassail Crowns Lyveden New Bield near Oundle www.nationaltrust.org.uk Make your own wild crown, using natural materials and feel like a King or Queen for the day. £1 a crown.

Wassail Trail

Snowdrop Stories Trail

Tuesday 20th February

For the Birds

Feathered Friends Trail

Saturday 10th February Lyveden New Bield near Oundle www.nationaltrust.org.uk Pull on your wellies and explore nature with this family-friendly trail. Discover family-friendly activities in the grounds at Lyveden and make a toast to the good health of the orchard. Runs until 25th February.

Tigers Indoor Play, Daventry www.tigersplay.co.uk This fun soft play boasts a four lane astro slide, cafe with 5* food hygiene rating, free Wi-Fi and plenty more. They run three timed sessions each day, plus offer birthday parties, go-karts and even sleepovers! Look out for their half price admission voucher in this magazine!

Punk up your T-shirt

Monday 19th February Swashbuckling Half Term Weston Favell Shopping Centre www.westonfavellshopping.com From 19th-25th February, children are invited to the Favell Fun Club for some free piratethemed activities and a treasure hunt in the shopping centre. On Wednesday 21st February from 11am-3pm, join the crew for a Pirate Party, where you can enjoy free snacks, win prizes for the best-dressed pirate, get your face painted and take part in a craft activity.

Check out their amazing competition on page 13 for your chance to win a LEGO Pirate Ship Toy!

Northampton Museum and Art Gallery www.northamptonmuseums.com Create your own punk inspired t-shirt!

Please take a plain t-shirt or top to use.

A range of creative materials will be available but feel free to take any other materials that you would like to use.

1-2.30pm and 3-4.30pm. £4. Age 8+.

Booking essential.

Friday 23rd February Songs of Self Expression Northampton Museum and Art Gallery www.northamptonmuseums.com Creative Songwriting for beginners.

Inspired by the explosion of Punk in 1976 giving you the freedom to unleash your inner creative! For children aged 7-12 years. Timings: 10-11.15am, 11.15am-12.45pm and 1-2.15pm. £7 per child. Booking essential.

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Competitions

WIN!

To enter this competition please email to: competitions@primarytimesmag.com. When you enter make sure you give us your name, address, email, child’s age and school. Closing date Friday 23rd Feb. Please note: Primary Times will only use your details to contact the competition winner.

WIN 2 ROUNDS OF ADVENTURE GOLF FOR 4 PEOPLE AT PARADISE ISLAND ADVENTURE GOLF What could be better than a day out with all the family for a game of adventure golf, set in a tropical paradise? We’re delighted to offer one lucky reader the chance to win two rounds of Adventure Golf for four people at Paradise Island Adventure Golf at Rushden Lakes!

They’re open seven days a week at the West Terrace - Rushden Lakes, boasting two fabulous indoor 18-hole adventure golf courses set amidst stunning, tropical surroundings.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN THIS FANTASTIC PRIZE, SIMPLY SEND IN YOUR ENTRY MARKED ‘PIAG’ AND YOU WILL BE PLACED IN OUR PRIZE DRAW Competition T&C’s: Prize is 1 x free pass which admits 4 people. Can play both courses. Prize is only valid at Paradise Island Adventure Golf Rushden Lakes. Prize must be redeemed *from the date the prize is drawn to three months after*. Prize must be pre-booked ahead of play. There is no cash alternative. Prize is non-transferrable. Paradise Island Adventure Golf reserves the right to refuse entry. Other terms and conditions may apply.

T&C’s Apply | Closing date is Friday 23rd February

WIN!

To enter this competition please email to: competitions@primarytimesmag.com. When you enter make sure you give us your name, address, email, child’s age and school. Closing date Friday 23rd Feb. Please note: Primary Times will only use your details to contact the competition winner.

WIN HALF-PRICE JOINING AT PROACTION MARTIAL ARTS

!

OFFER CODE: PTFEB24 Valid for 1 year

*This voucher entitles the bearer half price admission for up to 2 children & 2 adults. Valid 5 days a week, Wednesday-Sunday. Photocopies not accepted. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

This is Scott… Proaction Martial Arts’ very own mascot - the Mighty Monkey!

Proaction Martial Arts, the award-winning martial arts school in Northampton, is opening to new students this year.

They run classes for 4-6 year olds, the ‘Mighty Monkeys’, plus classes for 7-13 year olds, adults and families.

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN HALF PRICE JOINING THIS WINTER, DRAW AND COLOUR A PICTURE OF SCOTT! Enjoy some drawing over half term!

Please email us a copy of your picture by Friday 23rd February, we can’t wait to see them all.

T&C’s Apply | Closing date is Friday 23rd February

primarytimes.co.uk/northamptonshire

FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 13

Box OFFICE All the very best theatre, arts and films near you.

Castle Theatre Wellingborough www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

Saturday 10th-Sunday 11th February THERE’S A MONSTER IN YOUR SHOW

Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, as the beloved ‘Who’s in Your Book?’ series makes its debut as a brandnew musical show.

Sunday 18th February MARK THOMPSON’S SPECTACULAR SCIENCE

Designed for children and adults alike, Mark’s Spectacular Science Show explores the strange and magical properties of matter with exploding elephant’s toothpaste, vortex-generating dustbins and even howling jelly babies!

Tuesday 20th February THE THREE LITTLE PIGS Lost The Plot Theatrical hit the road with another family classic...

It’s time to get blown away in this brand-new musical adventure of The Three Little Pigs!

Wednesday 28thThursday 29th February

Sunday 10th March RICHARD JONES: SOLDIER OF ILLUSION!

The only magician ever to win Britain’s Got Talent - Lance Corporal Richard Jones has since enthralled audiences all over the world, including sell out UK national theatre tours and headlining shows in the West End.

SAY YTOUIN SAW I

DEAR ZOO Rod Campbell’s muchloved lift the flap book has been a firm favourite with children and parents for nearly forty years. Lovingly adapted for the stage, his distinctive illustrations leap from the page in this colourful show packed full of puppetry, songs and, of course, all the animals from the zoo.

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!

The Core Corby, Northants www.thecorecorby.com

Friday 23rd-Saturday 24th February SPLORE AT THE CORE

Over two days, The Core Theatre spaces and Corby Town Centre will be brought to life with a host of fun family activities and live performances from local and UK based artists.

Saturday 24th February WOMEN LIKE ME: THE LITTLE MIX SHOW

This show brings back-toback chart-topping hits, incredible voices, and the electrifying energy of Little Mix to life on stage, captivating fans old and new in an unmissable celebration of their phenomenal music career.

Thursday 28th March TORTOISE AND THE HARE

The race is on in Northern Ballet’s Tortoise & the Hare.

When a cheeky Hare won’t stop boasting about how fast he can run, thoughtful Tortoise decides it is time to join him in a race.

No one thinks Tortoise can win, but when Hare gets distracted by games and treats, Tortoise might just surprise us all.

The Old Savoy Northampton www.theoldsavoy.co.uk

Sunday 11th February THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH!

Featuring International Circus acts, amazing magic & lots of laughs! The top-class artistes will not only bring skill and suspense during their acts, they will also all be participating in the production numbers and comedy aspects of the show to make one truly unhinged experience.

14 FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024

Royal And Derngate Northampton www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Monday 19th February FIREMAN SAM: THE GREAT CAMPING ADVENTURE

Norman wants to go on an adventure to impress his friends, so when two famous animal explorers arrive in Pontypandy, he decides to follow them into the mountains. But when Norman discovers a rare red squirrel, one of the explorers decides to take the glory for themselves, leaving Norman stranded in a cave.

Now it’s up to Fireman Sam to save the day and ensure everyone is safe on their camping adventure!

Tuesday 20th February RUDE SCIENCE

Brace yourselves for TV Gastronaut Stefan Gates’ hilarious, high-tech, highly-explosive new family show, packed with science stunts, spectacular experiments and bizarre props. It’s a thoroughly educational science extravaganza based on the acclaimed Rude Science book.

Wednesday 21st-Sunday 25th February THERE’S A MONSTER IN YOUR SHOW

Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, as the beloved ‘Who’s in Your Book?’ series makes its debut as a brand-new musical show.

Friday 15th-Sunday 17th March ZOG AND THE FLYING DOCTORS

Based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s bestselling sequel, Freckle Productions are back with music and lyrics by Joe Stilgoe (Zog) for this truly modern take on the classic fairy tale.

Sunday 24th March THE BUBBLE SHOW

The Bubble Show is a unique blend of magic, storytelling, science and bubble art! Enjoy bouncy bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, smoke bubbles, square bubbles, giant bubbles, and even fire bubbles!

Friday 5th-Saturday 13th April MOBY DICK

October, 1839. In search of fortune and adventure, Ishmael, a humble schoolmaster, ships on a whaleboat sailing out of Nantucket. The skipper, Captain Ahab, charges his crew to wreak revenge on the white whale that lost him his leg the infamous Moby Dick. Ages 7+.

primarytimes.co.uk/northamptonshire

Box OFFICE

MON 19 FEB

WED 21 - SUN 25 FEB

FRI 15 - SUN 17 MAR

Box Office: 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

SUN 24 MAR primarytimes.co.uk/northamptonshire

FRI 5 - SAT 13 APR FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2024 15