39,500 copies for families of Primary School Children
Northamptonshire
www.primarytimes.co.uk Spring Issue 104 14 March - 15 May 2022
Inside:
Check out our events guide for some fantastic days out now! Fabulous Competition inside – see p18 to find out more!
Northamptonshire’s only what’s on and where to go guide covering the whole county... BRACKLEY. CORBY. DAVENTRY. KETTERING. NORTHAMPTON. RUSHDEN. TOWCESTER. WELLINGBOROUGH
Welcome Readers! In Northamptonshire Published by Moonscape Media Ltd Tel: 0118 9724980 Email: office@primarytimesmag.com Editor: Michelle Dilger Production: Nathan Pretlove Advertising: Niki Whitwell Suzanne Mason Listings Editor: Suzanne Watson Features Editor: Helen Chitham Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in 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.
What’s Inside
With daffodils popping up, we can bid farewell to the gloomy skies of winter and look forward to longer, warmer days for sunnier times ahead – in more ways than one! This issue is packed with unmissable family activities right on your doorstep, ripe for some Easter exploration and guaranteed to put a spring in your step! Entertaining children needn’t be expensive either as there are so many brilliant places to visit which are low cost, or even free. It’s wonderful to see that the events calendar is back - check out the huge variety of things to do on our days out and diary pages, catering for toddlers through to teens – with the best museums, family attractions and play areas to explore. It’s time to make the most of our freedom and let your children enjoy being sociable once more! So, whether you keep the kids sweet by relaxing at home, or head out for outdoor adventures, we wish you all a fun and happy break. We’ll see you all again before the May Half Term. Lo o ou t k t he n f o r ex t issu boo e in you kbag r 16th s on May
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Events Watch
10 Spring Activities 13 What’s On Where 18 Theatre Watch 18 Competition
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Weldon Cricket Club Wellingborough Old Grammarians Cricket Club Horton House Cricket Club Barby Cricket Club
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Notices and News updates for parents and teachers
NMPAT Little Stars can now bring the joy of music to the under 7s! Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust is delighted to be expanding its offer for children under 7 years old. Newly rebranded as ‘Little Stars’, their building on the Kettering Road (Northampton) hosts weekday sessions for babies and pre-school children, in addition to after school classes for EYFS and KS1 children. All classes include activities aimed at developing language and listening skills, physical co-ordination and personal, social and emotional growth, all while having fun and introducing a variety of music into your child’s life. On Saturdays, Little Stars team members can be found in NMPAT Saturday Centres across the county – find out what goes on at your nearest Centre at www.nmpat.co.uk/centres Little Stars lead, Sarah Wise, is keen to meet with all those working with children under 7 years – in schools, nurseries and community settings – and lead musical play sessions. W: www.nmpat.co.uk/littlestars
Are you looking for an extraordinary education for your child? Visit St Peter’s School and see for yourself Kettering’s only independent school and Nursery, established in 1946. Celebrating their 75th year in 2021, the school has established a reputation as a warm and friendly school with a strong family atmosphere. Focused on inclusive, high-quality learning, small class sizes are set in a beautiful, walled garden historic setting. Proud of their values-led approach with an emphasis on community, they seek to educate the whole child valuing a vibrant and rich curriculum - the arts, music and sport. Of course, academic rigour is important, but so is creativity, and children are encouraged to become life-long learners, well prepared for any secondary school. They warmly invite you to arrange a visit. T: 01536 512066 W: www.st-peters.org.uk E: stpsoffice@st-peters.org.uk
Are you aged 8-11? Dynamos Cricket is an action-packed, fun programme designed to inspire the next generation of cricketers! Dynamos Cricket provides a fantastic next step for all those graduating from All Stars Cricket and the perfect introduction for all 8-11 year-olds new to the sport! Complementing junior cricket, Dynamos provides children with a more social offer focused on developing fundamental movement skills and applying them in an exciting game of countdown cricket. They know how important it is to look like the heroes of the game, so every child who registers will receive their very own Dynamos Cricket New Balance t-shirt, personalised with their name and number. For more information or to find your nearest Dynamos Cricket centre, simply visit their website. W: www.dynamoscricket.co.uk
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Northampton High School creates an environment for every girl to thrive At Northampton High School, they believe in a complete education that’s made for girls and young women. Everything about the school is carefully considered from their purpose-built site to inspirational teachers and first-class pastoral care. Their school is bursting with spirited students who are encouraged to learn without limits. They’re not there to pigeonhole or conform to stereotypes. Instead, they encourage their girls to be curious and independent, resilient and brave; to lead and be individuals whilst recognising the value of collaboration and teamwork. In doing so, they turn “can we?” into “we can”, unleashing the potential in a generation of girls and young women who can go on and define a future on their own terms. Go and visit them on their Open Day, Friday 6th May 2022 and find out for yourself. W: www.northamptonhigh.co.uk
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Join the passionate team at Kingsley Studio for performing arts
Confidence is key at Kumon At your local Kumon study centre the aim is to develop each child into a confident, independent learner. With more than 60 years of experience, the Kumon Maths and English Programmes enable children to take on new challenges with confidence. When a child enrols onto the Kumon programmes, they start at their own ‘just-right’ level. The initial focus is to build a strong foundation in the way they study, developing important skills such as concentration, pace and rhythm. Once they’ve built this foundation, they’ll then be able to confidently tackle topics they haven’t previously studied! Kumon believes that learning is for the long run. Children develop lifelong study skills and a passion for learning, as well as the academic confidence to tackle new challenges. Contact your local Kumon Instructor today and have an informal conversation to discuss your child’s needs. Find your nearest centre online. W: www.kumon.co.uk
Learn a new sport, have fun and make friends at All Stars Cricket! All Stars Cricket provides a fantastic first experience for all children aged 5-8 years old where they’re guaranteed 8 weeks of jampacked fun, activity and skills development. The programme is designed to introduce children to the sport, teaching them new skills, helping them make new friends and have a great time doing so. Every child that registers will receive a backpack full of goodies. Your child’s pack will include: • Backpack • Cricket bat • Cricket ball • Personalised t-shirt with your child’s name All children returning to All Stars will receive a kit bag, a set of stumps, a new ball and a personalised t-shirt. For more information or to find your nearest All Stars Cricket centre, simply visit them online. W: www.allstarscricket.co.uk
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Kingsley Studio offers professional education and lots of fun for young people through Dance and the Performing Arts. They offer a wide variety of classes such as Ballet, Tap, Acro, Flexibility, Musical Theatre (singing & acting) and more. Through combined tuition of technique and performance skills, delivered by professional, experienced practitioners, students are instilled with valuable life lessons such as discipline, fitness, teamwork and most importantly, confidence – all of which will greatly benefit a child’s future. They are looking for new students to join a friendly and creative collective of students and teachers alike, passionate about the Performing Arts. Classes for Baby Ballerinas and Adults too! T: 07378 895 461 E: Kingsleystudio@hotmail.com
March 27th Mothering Sunday – Cream Teas April 3rd Kids for a Quid Sunday Running April: Sat 16th, Sun 17th & Mon 18th Easter Egg Specials
Apr Sat 30th, May: Sun 1st, Mon 2nd Brampton Bear Specials May 29th Kids for a Quid Sunday Running
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Events Watch It’s here – the prospect of longer
days and warmer weather – so make sure you have some top family
entertainment in the diary! There are some excellent events back on the
cards this year, so celebrate the start of the new, more hopeful season ahead and plan an action-packed spring.
Wednesday 6th & Thursday 7th April; Wednesday 13th April
A whole heap of Fun Stuff is happening at Weston Favell this Easter This Easter join the Favell Fun Club at a FREE* Teddy Bear workshop! On Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th April, your little ones can build their very own fluffy friend to take home (£2 booking fee will be required). Then on Wednesday 13th April, you can take your new cuddly friends on a bear hunt throughout the centre! Join the Fun Club team at their teddy bear picnic and enjoy a pom pom craft activity before heading off to meet a surprise guest. These fun-filled events are free for children to join in and will take place between 10am - 2pm. *suitable for years 3+ W: www.westonfavellshopping.com/fun-club
Easter Bank Holiday Friday 15th – Monday 18th April
Hop along to Delapré Abbey for an Easter Eggstravanza Can you find the eight decorated eggs that have been hidden in the Walled Garden at Delapré Abbey? Follow the trail and match the patterns to your bingo card to win a chocolate prize! Little ones and their grownups are guaranteed an egg-cellent time taking part in craft activities, lawn games, planting seeds and more. The Easter Eggstravanza runs from Friday 15th to Monday 18th April, 10am-4pm. The historic house will also be open on the Sunday for you to continue the fun indoors. Entry to the house is £8 for adults and free for under 18s. Visit their website to find out more and book. W: www.delapreabbey.org
Easter Bank Holiday Saturday 16th, Sunday 17th & Monday 18th April
Easter Egg Specials will be a tasty treat for the whole family! Relax and have fun aboard the Northampton & Lamport Railway and celebrate Easter with a fun train ride and a chocolate treat! Yes, that’s right - all children aged 2-16 will receive a free, delicious Creme Egg when you travel aboard one of their Easter Egg Specials! Trains run on the 16th, 17th and 18th April. Enjoy a tranquil journey through the attractive Northamptonshire countryside and take time to browse around their souvenir shop, stocked full of nostalgic memorabilia as well as a wide range of toys. When needed, re-hydrate the troops from their buffet coach serving hot and cold drinks, tasty snacks and freshly prepared hot food.
Easter Bank Holiday Friday 15th – Sunday 17th April
Festival Of Power at Santa Pod Raceway
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W: www.nlr.org.uk
Santa Pod Raceway presents The Festival of Power once again! Feel the power of nitromethane burning dragsters and funny cars, along with fire breathing side by side Jet Cars! Plus, 240mph+ Pro Mods take to the track, along with the first round of National Championships! Off track action includes an all-out Live Action show – two car crushing Monster Trucks, the world class Terry Grant & Lee Bowers and Herve Franquin in the ‘seen to be believed’ jet powered Peugeot 205! Off track entertainment includes an African Acrobatics Circus, Trials Stunt Team, Bumblebee Experience and Helicopter Pleasure Flights. Tickets start from £30 (booking fees apply).
Easter Sunday 17th & Monday 18th April
W: www.santapod.com
W: www.kelmarshshow.co.uk
Kelmarsh Show offers a fantastic line-up to entertain the whole family The Kelmarsh Show arrives within the fantastic grounds of Kelmarsh Hall over the Easter Bank Holiday. From the awesome Red Devils Parachute Display Team and amazing falconry displays, to fast-paced action from the Mounted Games of Great Britain and Jamie Squibb Freestyle Motocross, there is something for the whole family to delight in! There’s a dedicated Kids Zone where youngsters can enjoy face painting, model balloons and even hunt for treasure, all of which are completely free! Try the tempting local cuisine at the Food Village, immerse in some amazing sounds at the Folk Roots Festival and shop the latest countryside accessories across the showground.
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Events watch
28th May-12th June
Rushden Celebrates hosts a full, family programme of entertainment As part of an extended ‘Rushden Celebrates’ line-up and in honour of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, Rushden has a full events calendar! Taking place from 28th May to 12th June, events include: 2nd June: Rushden Jubilee Beacon Lighting and Torchlight Procession - with performances from a live Piper, Bugler and Choir.
Saturday 23rd April
The Jurassic giants return for a free family fun day Europe’s biggest T Rex is returning to Northampton town centre, and he’s bringing a whole host of new friends with him. Following in the giant footsteps of last summer’s hugely popular dinosaur festival, the Jurassic beasts will be returning for one day only on Saturday, April 23rd from 11am to 4pm. Ritchie the Raptor, Zeus the T Rex and Tank the Triceratops will once again appear in Market Square and Abington Street, with a host of activities lined up for young adventurers including an augmented reality Dino Trail available through the Explore Northampton app – giving families the chance to hunt down 10 friendly dinosaurs hidden around the town centre and grab a selfie with their favourite. There will also be a prize draw for the opportunity to win one of two family tickets for the Jurassic Earth performance at the Deco theatre on Saturday, 30th July. W: www.discovernorthampton.co.uk/the-dinosaursare-coming-to-northampton-town-centre/
5th June: The Big Jubilee Lunch in Hall Park’s Walled Garden – take a picnic or purchase refreshments onsite and enjoy a variety of family entertainment. 12th June: Rushden’s Soap Box Derby at Hall Park - build your own Kart to race or cheer on your favourite team! There will also be a Jubilee Park Skateboard Festival, Music in the Park, Art in the Park and more! A full programme will be available from early May on their website. W: www.rushdentowncouncil.gov.uk
Saturday 11th June
Head to Northampton Carnival and celebrate “A Summer Of Jubilation” Northampton Carnival Arts Consortium are delighted to be planning the first live event in three years. This year the theme is A SUMMER OF JUBILATION, to reflect positive hopes and dreams for the future! The theme fittingly coincides with The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee to inspire a regal twist and make this the best, free multicultural community affair to date! There are opportunities for schools, groups, paraders, troupes and individuals to get onboard and start planning their costumes, floats and routines, as well as stall holders, local artists/musicians, singers/dancers, to perform on the main stage. Keep an eye on their social media platforms for updates on their free Carnival workshops. To get involved, visit www.northamptoncarnival.co.uk or email northamptoncarnival@yahoo.co.uk
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Spring Activities
Egg hunts, adventure golf and outdoor activities – Easter is just around the corner, and everyone deserves some fun this holiday! We’ve rounded up a few of the best familyfriendly destinations to keep the young, and the youngat-heart, happily occupied all season long! Fun, free cricket
activities and more to entertain your kids this holiday!
If you are looking for something different for your children over the school holidays, Steelbacks in the Community are running four exciting Fun Days across the county over the Easter holidays to get children active. The four dates are: • Tuesday 5th April - Weldon Cricket Club, Corby NN17 3JP • Thursday April 7th - Old Grammarians Sports Field, Wellingborough NN8 6BS • Monday April 11th - Horton House Cricket Club, Northampton NN7 2BE
Enjoy an awesome day out for the whole family at Wicksteed!
Wicksteed Park has so much to entertain children of all ages – including a brand-new attraction! Open throughout the Easter holidays, have oodles of fun on the rip-roaring Dinosaur Valley, Galaxy Invaders or enjoy traditional favourites such as Rocky River Falls, the Paratrooper and the Dodgems. The park also opens its new attraction - Wicky’s Farmyard – complete with giant rabbits, pigs, goats, barn owls, ferrets and guinea pigs. Entry to Wicky’s Farmyard is included in the price of a wristband or buy individual tickets for £2.50. There will also be an ‘eggciting’ Easter egg hunt around the park and young children can enjoy Wicky’s Easter Ball (£5 per head) on 9th April at 5pm. W: www.wicksteedpark.org
Thunderbowl Kettering provides
entertainment and party options for all ages Thunderbowl Kettering has everything you need for a great day out this holiday and beyond! And if you’re celebrating, you can now upgrade your bowling or party package to their VIP area. Up to 24 bowlers can enjoy colourful projections that light up the lanes to give an animated bowling experience. There are themes to suit all ages and ensure your occasion is one to remember! Thunderbowl Kettering also has a Restaurant, Escape Rooms, Arcade, Pool Lounge and a great Pirate themed Adventure Golf course. Why not take advantage of their Add Golf Offer? Delivering great value, you can add a round of golf to any bowling booking for just £4 per person! T: 01536 414004 W: www.thunderbowl.co.uk
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• Wednesday April 13th - Barby Cricket Club, Daventry CV23 8TE Entry to all four Fun Days is completely FREE and they are not all about cricket. In addition to fun fair styled cricket activities there will be inflatable fun, food and drink available and prizes to be won! It’s an exciting opportunity to experience some cricket skills for the very first time, but also make new friends and have a great time. If you would like any further information about these Fun Days, please contact matt.long@nccc.co.uk
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Spring Activities
Hop across to Rockingham
Castle for a basketful of fun this April!
There will be plenty of egg-citement at Rockingham Castle as the Castle & Gardens opens this Easter Bank Holiday! It will be their first open day of 2022, marking the start of their 950th anniversary year. Collect your leaflet and start exploring the Gardens to seek out the Kings & Queens Easter Trail. Don’t forget, once you’ve completed your booklet, you can collect your Easter Egg! Meet Billy the Bunny, indulge in delicious refreshments, and enjoy stunning views across the Welland Valley, perfect for picnics! The Castle will also be open throughout the day to explore too – tickets are available to purchase on their website. W: www.rockinghamcastle.com
Enjoy exclusive tours of spectacular Holdenby House this summer
For the first time ever, between July 18th and August 12th, group visits can take advantage of exclusive tours of Holdenby House and Garden, still lived in by the Lowther family. Walk the corridors that were once part of the largest house in England built by Lord Chancellor, Sir Christopher Hatton, to entertain Queen Elizabeth I. Stand on one of the most historically important sites in England where King Charles I was taken into custody of Parliament by Cornet Joyce and 500 men-at-arms. Study the many plants in the Kitchen Garden and don’t forget to look up and see one of Icarus Falconry’s magnificent birds of prey flying overhead. Afterwards, enjoy lunch or cream tea in Connie’s Tea Parlour. T: 01604 770 074 E: office@holdenby.com
Become a myODEON member and enjoy the magic of the big screen, for less!
Head down to ODEON Kettering this Easter. Enjoy early morning Kids Club films from £2.50 or treat yourself to some of the newest family films such as Sonic 2, The Bad Guys, or the latest adventure from the world of Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore. For the best prices, book online or through their app and become a myODEON member at no extra cost. Go along on Member Mondays and no matter what film you see, you’ll get it cheaper as a myODEON member. They can’t wait to see you! W: www.odeon.co.uk/cinemas/kettering/
Traditional Easter at Holdenby House Gardens and Falconry
t
17th & 18th April 2022 House Open Easter Monday
t
Historic Gardens • Falconry Displays Easter Egg Hunt • Egg Painting Egg Roll • Stalls • Garden Games Take a look around our Victorian School Room Admission: 11am – 4pm (house open on Monday from 12pm-3pm)
Book tickets online: www.holdenby.com Email: office@holdenby.com or call 01604 770074 12 Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/Northamptonshire for thousands more great days out
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what’s on when On-going Daventry Country Park Daventry Country Park is a popular park ideally situated in the urban fringe of Daventry, within one mile of the town centre and easily accessible by car, bicycle or on foot with the benefit of cycle ways and footpaths from the surrounding areas. Daventry Country Park, NN11 2JB. W: www.daventrydc.gov.uk/
Daventry Leisure Centre With their newly-refurbished gym and a huge selection of activities and sports to keep everyone active. W: www.everyoneactive.com/ centre/daventry-leisure-centre/
Fermyn Woods Mrs Machadson’s Home School for the Inquisitive and Wild at Fermyn Woods Country Park runs monthly and is aimed at home schooled children. Booking required. W: www.northamptonshireparks.co.uk
Superworm Arrives!
Trilogy Leisure
Brand new Superworm family trail at Salcey Forest and Fineshade Wood. The trails showcase the unsung heroes of the forest based on the book by Julia Donaldson. Purchase a trail from the visitor welcome points for £3.50. W: www.forestryengland.uk/ activities/superworm-activity-trails
Offering a wide range of health and fitness and leisure activities at their unique centres suitable for young and old alike. W: www.trilogyleisure.co.uk
Gruffalo Sculptures at Fineshade Wood If you venture into the deep dark wood, you may bump into Gruffalo and his creature friends from Julia Donaldson’s classic story. See handcrafted sculptures of fox, mouse, owl, squirrel and snake alongside the Gruffalo. Head to the trails to find them all on your next visit. W: www.forestryengland.uk/ fineshade-wood/gruffalosculptures-fineshade-wood
Wicksteed Park Wicksteed Park has so much to entertain children of all ages. All the park’s rides and attractions are open throughout the Easter holidays, The park is also opening its brand new attraction - Wicky’s Farmyard – where you can see and enjoy a wide range of animals such as giant rabbits, pigs, goats, barn owls, ferrets, chickens, ducks, guinea pigs. W: www.wicksteedpark.org
Redwell Leisure Redwell and Waendal Leisure Centres in Wellingborough offering a range of activities for all ages to encourage healthy and active lifestyles. W: www.placesleisure.org
Walking Trails at Salcey Forest Situated just 7 miles from Northampton Salcey Forest has walking trails to keep the family fit and active. Details are on their website W: www.forestryengland.uk/salceyforest/
March Sunday 20th
Mimms Honda Day The largest Honda event in the UK at Santa Pod Raceway. W: santapod.co.uk/calendar-events
Friday 25th
Wear A Hat Day Wear A Hat Day is back! Join thousands of school children, parents and teachers across the UK and get hatty to help find a cure for brain tumours. This year’s unmissable fundraiser has a regal theme, celebrating the Platinum Jubilee with four new royal hat badges. It’s the perfect way to bring everyone together and enjoy hat-themed events for Brain Tumour Research. Register today to get your free fundraising pack. W: www.wearahatday.org
Sunday 27th
Northampton and Lamport Railway The railway re-opens for the 2022 season today with Mothering Sunday cream teas. W: www.nlr.org.uk/
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what’s on when Sunday 27th
Le French Fest A celebration of automobiles from across the channel, with RWYB and show paddock. Santa Pod Raceway. W: santapod.co.uk/calendar-events
Mother’s Day Sunday Lunch Enjoy a three course carvery lunch and a free git for Mum. 12-4pm £25 per adult/Children under 12 half price and under 3 eat free. Holiday Inn Corby. W: www.hicorby.com
Sunday 3rd
Thursday 7th
Monday 11th
The Fast Show
Pom Animals Craft Workshop
Steelbacks in the Community Fun Day
A fun workshop to create your own woolly pom animal. Choose from Easter chicks, bouncing bunnies or silly sheep or maybe create your own strange new creature! All materials supplied. Suitable for families. Children must be accompanied. Booking essential. 1-2pm, 2.153.15pm and 3.30 - 4.30pm. £3.50. Abington Park Museum. W: www.northamptonmuseums.com/
Northamptonshire Cricket Club fun day at Horton House Cricket Club, NN7 2BE from 11am-3pm. Cricket activities, food and drink available and prizes to be won! Entry is FREE. Please contact matt.long@nccc.co.uk W: www.nccc.co.uk/community-hub/
The season-opener for all performance and modified car enthusiasts including RWYB and clubs. Santa Pod Raceway. W: santapod.co.uk/calendar-events
Kids For a Quid Sunday special at Northampton and Lamport Railway. Kids can go for a quid for ages 2-16’s and under 2’s ride FREE! W: www.nlr.org.uk/
Tuesday 5th
Steelbacks in the Community Fun Day Northamptonshire Cricket Club fun day at Weldon Cricket Club NN1 3JP from 11am-3pm. Cricket activities, food and drink available and prizes to be won! Entry is FREE. Please contact matt.long@nccc.co.uk W: nccc.co.uk/community-hub/
April
Wednesday 6th
Saturday 2nd
Teddy Bear Workshop
Spring Haiku Trail
This Easter join the Favell Fun Club at a free Teddy Bear workshop! Suitable for years 3+ Your little ones can build their very own fluffy friend to take home. A £2 booking will be required. Also on 7th April. Weston Favell Shopping. W: www.westonfavellshopping.com
Throughout the Easter holidays take part in the Spring haiku trail, search for poetry clues to see if you can identify the 10 animals that make Lyveden their home. Lyveden New Bield, National Trust. W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
Have a Go Workshops Taking inspiration from the museum collections, children can work with artists to create their own artwork using different techniques. Booking essential For children aged 8 and over. Children must be accompanied. 10am12noon and 1-3pm. £5. Also on 13th and 14th April. Northampton Museum. W: www.northamptonmuseums.com/
Viking Mania In conjunction with the exhibition Valhalla, a fun-filled family day of Viking mania. Learn how Vikings lived worked and played with the Bifrost Guard and make your own shield and helmet. Suitable for families. Drop in. 11am - 3pm. Free but a small charge for some activities. Abington Park Museum. Booking essential. W: www.northamptonmuseums.com
Tuesday 12th
Wednesday 13th
Steelbacks in the Community Fun Day
Easter Trail
Northamptonshire Cricket Club fun day at Wellingborough Old Grammarians Cricket Club, NN8 6BS from 11am3pm. Cricket activities, food and drink available and prizes to be won! Entry is FREE. Please contact matt.long@ nccc.co.uk W: www.nccc.co.uk/community-hub/
A special Easter trail around Abington Park Museum with a chocolate egg as a prize for every child. Suitable for families. Children must be accompanied. Drop in, no booking required. 1-5pm. £2. Running until 17th April. W: www.northamptonmuseums.com/
Steelbacks in the Community Fun Day
Saturday 9th
Northamptonshire Cricket Club fun day at Barby Cricket Club, CV23 8TR from 11am-3pm. Cricket activities, food and drink available and prizes to be won! Entry is FREE. Please contact matt. long@nccc.co.uk W: nccc.co.uk/community-hub/
Easter Activities at Wicksteed Park Easter Egg hunt around the park and young children can enjoy the fun of Wicky’s Easter Ball. Wicksteed Park, Kettering. W: www.wicksteedpark.org
Bear Hunt at Weston Favell Easter at Warwick Castle Special Easter activities for the whole family running 9th-24th April. Warwick Castle. W: www.warwick-castle.com/explore
Join the Fun Club team at the teddy bear picnic and enjoy a pom craft before heading off to meet a surprise guest. Free for children. 10am - 2pm. Weston Favell Shopping. W: www.westonfavellshopping.com
BALLET • FLEXIBILITY ACRO • MODERN TAP AND MORE! We provide a wide variety of dance disciplines and fun ways to keep fit and healthy! Girls and boys from 18 months to adults ISTD and RAD exam work. Fully qualified and experienced teachers. Find us in the well established Kingsley Health and Beauty Solarium. For more info and to reserve your space please contact: E: kingsleystudio@hotmail.com T: 07378 895 461 F: @kingsleystudionorthampton
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FIRST CLASS FREE
Friday 15th
what’s on when Afternoon Tea with Easter Bunny Enjoy an Easter themed Afternoon Tea with a surprise visit from the Easter Bunny! 12-3pm £25.00 per adult/£15 per child. Holiday Inn Corby. W: www.hicorby.com
Thursday 14th
Easter Eggstavaganza at West Lodge Farm Park The Easter Eggstravaganza at West Lodge Farm Park returns for 2022. Join the Easter Bunny in his Easter Garden and lots more! Until Monday 18th. W: www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk
Easter Eggstravaganza Running 15th-18th April at West Lodge Rural Farm. W: westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk/ events/
Festival of Power at Santa Pod Raceway Feel the power of nitromethane burning dragsters and funny cars, along with fire breathing side by side Jet Cars! Plus, 240mph+ Pro Mods take to the track, along with the first round of National Championships! Off track action includes an all-out Live Action show – Two car crushing Monster Trucks, the world class Terry Grant & Lee Bowers and Herve Franquin in the ‘seen to be believed’ jet powered Peugeot 205! Running 15th-17th April. Tickets start from £30 (Booking Fees Apply). W: www.santapod.com
Easter Eggstravaganza at Delapré Abbey Hop along to Delapré Abbey for an Easter Eggstravanza, fun Easter trail and craft activities, lawn games, seed planting and more. Running 15th18th April. 10am-4pm. The historic house will be open on the Sunday. Entry to the house is £8 for adults and free for under 18’s. W: www.delapreabbey.org
Easter Egg Hunt This spring, treat your little ones to a world of adventures at Canons Ashby, National Trust property on the Easter adventures in nature trails. Make your way along the trail, finding nature-inspired activities for the whole family. £3 per child, includes a trail map, pencil and a chocolate egg at the end. Normal admission prices apply. W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/event
Saturday 16th
Easter Egg Specials Running 16th-18th April at Northampton and Lamport Railway. W: www.nlr.org.uk/
Sunday 17th
Family Fun Days! Traditional Easter at Holdenby House Running 17th /18th April. Amazing falconry displays from Icaurus Falconry, Easter egg hunt, egg roll, garden games, egg painting, stalls all in Holdenby’s beautiful gardens. Enjoy light refreshments in the tearoom. The House is open Monday only. Holdenby House, Northampton. W: www.holdenby.com/
*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.
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SPRING ISSUE 2022
Easter Fun at Rockingham Castle Collect your leaflet and start exploring the Gardens to seek out the Kings & Queens Easter Trail. Once completed you can collect an Easter Egg! Also on 18th April. Rockingham Castle. W: www.rockinghamcastle.com
Kelmarsh Show Held in the grounds of Kelmarsh Hall, a great day out for the family including Red Devils Parachute display team, falconry displays, freestyle motocross, dedicated kids zone and a food village. Also on 18th April. W: www.kelmarshshow.co.uk
Saturday 23rd
The Dinosaurs are Coming! Ritchie the Raptor, Zeus the T Rex and Tank the Triceratops will once again be appearing in Market Square and Abington Street, Northampton with a host of activities lined up for young adventurers including an augmented reality Dino Trail available through the Explore Northampton app – giving families the chance to hunt down 10 friendly dinosaurs hidden around the town centre and grab a selfie with their favourite. Free family fun day will be held from 11am to 4pm. W: www.discovernorthampton. co.uk/the-dinosaurs-are-coming-tonorthampton-town-centre/
Friday 20th
Brampton Bear Specials
Rockingham Castle International Horse Trials
Saturday 28th May – Sunday 12th June
Running 20th-22nd May. Rockingham Castle. W: www.rockinghamcastle.com
Rushden Celebrates the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
Running until 2nd May. Northampton and Lamport Railway. Children aged 2-16 with a cuddly toy, ride FREE! W: www.nlr.org.uk/
Sunday 24th
Northampton Town FC Celebrity and Legends Charity Game As part of the club’s 125th birthday celebrations, a host of celebrities and Northampton Town Legends will play in a special charity match at Sixfields on Sunday April 24th 2022 (3pm kick off) with proceeds going towards Sands United and the Northampton Town Community Trust. W: www.ntfc.co.uk
Wednesday 27th
St Peter’s School Open Day Visit St Peter’s School to see Kettering’s only independent school and nursery, established in 1946. Children are encouraged to become life-long learners well prepared for secondary school. To book a space call 01536 512066. W:www.st-peters.org.uk E: stpsoffice@st-peters.org.uk
Looking Ahead
Saturday 30th
May
Sunday 29th
Kids For a Quid
Friday 6th
Northampton High School Open Day Northampton High School believe in a complete education that’s made for girls and young women. Everything about the school is carefully considered from the purpose-built site to inspirational teachers and first-class pastoral care. Book a space on the Open Day and discover what the school has to offer your child.8am-12noon. W: www.northamptonhigh.co.uk/ admissions-open-days/open-days/
Open Morning-Spratton Hall Spratton Hall is an exceptional day prep school in Northamptonshire welcoming boys and girls aged 4-13. Book onto the day by visiting www.sprattonhall.com/admissions/ open-morning/
Sunday special at Northampton and Lamport Railway. Kids for a quid for ages 2-16’s and under 2’s ride FREE! W: www.nlr.org.uk/
A line up of some fabulous events to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee including Jubilee Beacon Lighting, The Big Jubilee Lunch, Soap Box Derby, Skateboard Festival, Music in the Park, Art in the Park and so much more! A full programme will be available from the beginning of May from the town council’s website. W: www.rushdentowncouncil.gov.uk
Saturday 11th June
Northampton Carnival This year the carnival theme is a Summer Of Jubilation, There are opportunities for schools, groups, paraders, troupes and individuals to get onboard and start planning their costumes, floats and routines, as well as stall holders, local artists/musicians, singers/dancers, to perform on the main stage. To get involved, visit www.northamptoncarnival.co.uk or email northamptoncarnival@yahoo.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!
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/Northamptonshire for thousands more great days out
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Theatre Watch Castle Theatre Wellingborough www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk Sunday 10th April
THE WIZARD OF OZ Fly over the rainbow with this exciting adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s classic The Wizard of Oz. Saturday 23rd April
Sunday 8th May
FIREMAN SAM LIVE! When all of his friends go away, Norman Price decides to find adventure in Pontypandy and become the star of a visiting circus. But with a tiger on the loose and faulty lights, the adventure soon turns to danger. Can Fireman Sam come to the rescue and save the circus?
A SPLASH OF COLOUR A Studio 52 Dance Academy colourful combination of Dance, Music & Song! The enthusiastic girls and boys aged 3-18 performing everything from Classical Ballet to Street Dance! Sunday 1st May
TWIRLYWOOS LIVE! Join Great BigHoo, Toodloo, Chickedy, Chick and their friends as they discover the wonderful world around us! Expect mischief, music and plenty of surprises as they set sail in their big red boat.
The Core Corby, Northants www.thecorecorby.com Sunday 20th March
YOUTH BRASS 2000 National Youth Brass Band Champions, Youth Brass 2000, return to The Core for a fantastic afternoon of music. Join the award-winning band for a concert involving brass band classics plus contemporary music, with the excitement and energy that only a youth band can provide.
Primary Times
Competition
You can enter Primary Times competitions by sending an email to competitions@primarytimesmag.com When you enter make sure you give us your name, address, email, age and school. Closing date is 25th March. Please note: Primary Times will only use your details to contact the competition winners.
Win one of five Family Tickets to the Kelmarsh Show The Kelmarsh Show arrives this Easter Bank Holiday over 17th & 18th April. This year, Kelmarsh welcomes a fantastic line up of family fun activities, live Main Arena demonstrations, havea-go features, sporting championship qualifiers, as well as an abundance of shopping opportunities from over 200 trade stands selling lots of country inspired goods. To win one of five Family Tickets to this April’s Kelmarsh Show, answer the following statement correctly: The Kelmarsh Show arrives this... A) Easter Bank Holiday B) May Bank Holiday C) August Bank Holiday To win this fantastic prize of a Family Ticket, simply send us your entry marked ‘Kelmarsh’ and all correct answers will be placed into our prize draw. Good luck! Closing date is Friday 25th March.
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Thursday 5th-Saturday 7th May
THE GRUFFALO Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
Monday 11th April
THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS Pack your picnics and join Ratty, Mole, Badger, and the fantastically irrepressible Toad as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime culminating in a colourful battle to save Toad Hall from the mischievous weasels! Wednesday 13th April
The Old Savoy- Home of the Deco Theatre Northampton www.thedeco.co.uk
THE WIZARD OF OZ Join Dorothy as she goes on a magical adventure to the Land of Oz. Brought to you by KD Theatre Productions.
Thursday 7th April
MILKSHAKE! LIVE Milkshake! Monkey is back and can’t wait to put on a spectacular new show for you all, joined by some of his favourite Milkshake! friends plus two Milkshake Presenters creating the most dazzling show you have ever seen! Sunday 10th April
MARK JONES - COMEDY FOR KIDS He’s back! The rickshaw-riding, toilet roll-swinging, cucumberchopping Wishee Washee from The Deco Theatre’s Christmas pantomime, Aladdin, returns with a brand-new comedy show for kids… and grown-ups who really should know better. Mark keeps the whole family entertained with his spontaneous brand of fun. You never quite know what he’s going to do next! Sunday 24th April
TOP SECRET - THE MAGIC OF SCIENCE Top Secret is a fast moving colourful magical science show filled with mystery, suspense, lots and lots of mess! The show will inspire and educate every young budding magician and scientist, as well as proving fun and exciting entertainment for all of the family.
The Lighthouse Theatre Kettering www.lighthousetheatre.co.uk Monday 4th April
EXCITING SCIENCE With fun & fact filled experiments, watch in amazement as you see the recreation of a volcanic eruption; turn a vacuum cleaner into a missile launcher or take aim at you with the smoke blaster! SPRING ISSUE 2022
Masque Theatre Kettering www.masquekettering.co.uk Friday 15th-Sunday17th April
GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS Laugh Out Loud Theatre proudly presents: Goldilocks and the Three Bears!
Royal And Derngate Northampton www.royalandderngate.co.uk Tuesday 5th-Saturday 9th April
LORD OF THE DANCE- 25 YEARS OF STANDING OVATIONS Dazzling audiences around the globe with its unique combination of high-energy Irish dancing, original music, storytelling and sensuality. The beloved Irish dance show transcends culture and language, soaring into the soul on astounding aerial moves, unparalleled precision dancing and state-of-the art theatrical effects. Sunday 17th April
JUSTIN LIVE! See CBeebies superstar and children’s favourite Justin Fletcher live on stage in an allsinging, all-dancing extravaganza. Monday 18th -Wednesday 20th April
DIVERSITY- CONNECTED This show centres around the world of social media, the internet, and the digital era we now live in, but more importantly how this connects us all.
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!
Go to www.primarytimes.co.uk/Northamptonshire for thousands more great days out
SPRING ISSUE 2022 19
