Primary Times Wiltshire: May Half Term

rima ry ptimes for parents, teachers & children

11 12 1 yrs

2 3 4 yrs

in Wiltshire Issue 75

1 Jun-19 July 2012

Jubilee events Active summer Gifts for teachers

CALL OF THE

Longleat

has some fantastic new attractions this year

d w il

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Arty Barty • Theatre • Roundabout • Save money!

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The vagaries of the calendar and the celebrations around the Queen’s 60th year on the throne mean that most of our May Half Term issue falls into June this year. But what a year it is, with the Jubilee and the Olympics build-up providing a wealth of activities for families in the West. We do a full round up of events planned in the region over the Jubilee weekend (P6), not forgetting activities that come round every year such as Bike Week and National School Sport Week (P21).

With the end of the school year looming we explore issues of pupils giving to teachers (P15) and suggest some appropriate ways children can show their appreciaton for their hard work.

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for parents,

children teachers &

11 12 1 yrs

2 3 4

yrs

e in Wiltshir Issue 75

1 Jun-19 July

nts Jubilee eve mer Active sumchers Gifts for tea

CALL OF THE

the editor

2012

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Page 4

VIEW THE MAGAZINE ONLINE AT www.venue.co.uk/early-times-primary-times www.primarytimes.net • www.facebook.com - Arty Barty

ney! t • Save mo Roundabou • Theatre • Arty Barty May Half Term

2012.indd

JUBILEE EVENTS P6 Pixie Lott leads a right royal knees up.

GET CRAFTY FOR TEACHER P15 Charlotte Le Lohé with some great hints.

SPRING INTO SUMMER P21 Discover lots of ways of getting active in ways that don’t involve the Jubilee.

has fantastic news attraction r this yea

w i ld

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THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P11 PINBOARD P17 ADVERTISING FEATURES P18 PUPILS’ PAGE P20 CLASSIFIEDS P22

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Primary Times in Wiltshire

Venue Publishing at Bristol News and Media, Temple Way, Bristol BS99 7HD. More information at www.primarytimes.net and more places to visit at wwww.venue.co.uk Publishing director: Dave Higgitt Editor: Mike Gartside

Email: mike.gartside@venue.co.uk

Tel: 0117 934 3742 Advertising: Becky Davis Advertising manager

Email: b.davis@venue.co.uk

Tel: 0117 934 3780

Ellie Pipe

Email: E.Pipe@venue.co.uk

Tel: 0117 934 3769/01225 429801 Distribution: Simon Butler

Tel: 0117 934 3741

Email: s.butler@bepp.co.uk Design: Sarah Clark, Mike Gartside, Tom Germain Main Office: 0117 942 8491 Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in Primary, Junior, Infant and Middle Schools throughout the former Avon area, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. It is also available by subscription at £10 per year.

Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions, and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. 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.

While we make every effort to ensure information published is accurate, readers are encouraged to check details of all events in advance and neither Venue Publishing nor its contributors are liable for the consequences of any errors. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in the county for their assistance in distributing the magazine and 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 the relevant contributor.

Primary Times is currently publishing more than two million copies per issue under franchise.

PRIMARY TIMES

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Find these amazing offers this issue!

Cardiff Castle – under 5s free Cotswold Show – free child’s ticket Longleat Safari & Adventure Park – win an annual family pass

Longleat

Wiltshire Heritage Museum – kids go free MAY HALF TERM 2012

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Longleat Safari & Adventure Park

Family fun at its

very best

Warminster, Wilt shire BA12 7NW Tel: 01985 8444 www.longleat.co.00 enquiries@longle uk at.co.uk

From lemurs to lorikeets, there’s a host of new attractions at Longleat this year.

L

EXPLORE

ongleat Safari & Adventure Park, the UK’s number one, is getting bigger and wilder in 2012, with more exciting things to see. The new Gorilla Colony, Lemur Walkthrough and Giraffe Feeding at the brand new Safari Watering Hole in the African Village open this summer, plus much more.

Longleat House, regarded as one of the best examples of high Elizabethan architecture in Britain and one of the most beautiful stately houses open to the public. With over 450 years of history, there is intrigue and scandal aplenty in this splendid Elizabethan home.

EVENTS

NEW!

The multi-million pound lakeside Gorilla Colony will provide a spacious, state-of-the-art camp for a troop of western lowland gorillas.

View the gorillas from Longleat’s Jungle Cruise boats with nothing but water to separate you.

New! There will be a unique opportunity to come face to face with six-metre-tall Rothschild’s giraffes on a spectacular eye-level platform at the new African Village in the Safari Park. Take in stunning savannah views whilst you hand feed these amazing animals, a truly unforgettable experience!

NEW!

Enter the brand new Lemur Walkthrough with the opportunity to wander among a colony of

Longleat Safari and Adventure Park also holds a range of fantastic events throughout the year: summer shows, Halloween tricks and treats, firework spectaculars and Christmas at Longleat.

Ffi: www.longleat.co.uk

these free-roaming primates from the island of Madagascar.

GO WILD . . .

. . . in the Safari Park. Look out for the lions, mind the zebra crossing, give the rhinos right of way, watch out for the wolves and beware of the meddling monkeys in the Monkey Drive-Thru!

There is a stunning new addi-

Win an annual pass FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY The UK’s No. 1 Longleat Safari & Adventure Park is offering the chance to win 12 months’ unlimited entry absolutely free. One lucky family has the chance to win annual passes valid for two adults and two children (3 – 14 years). In addition to enjoying 12 months’ unlimited fun and adventure the annual pass offers free entry to special events including Halloween, fireworks and Christmas, ticket discounts for family and friends and more!

To enter the competition simply answer the following question: The lemurs in Longleat’s new Lemur Walkthrough are from the island of: a) Crete b) Tasmania c) Madagascar Email your replies to Primary Times’s editor Mike Gartside at mike. gartside@venue.co.uk with Longleat competition in the subject line

by Monday 18 June . And remember to include your postal address and mobile phone/landline.

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tion to the Safari Park’s famous big cats in the shape of Cheetah Kingdom; home to the world’s fastest land animals, capable of speeds in excess of 60mph. Catch them if you can!

WALKABOUT . . .

. . . in the UK’s first walkthrough meerkat enclosure, hand feed the Rainbow Lorikeets, and enjoy the antics of the monkeys in Monkey Temple. Take a trip on Jungle Cruise, a sea lion escorted boat trip, or journey around the lakes on the Jungle Express.

ENJOY

Hunters of the Sky, brought to Longleat by the Hawk Conservancy Trust, returns in 2012 with a new birds of prey show. This spectacular display of eagles, kites, vultures and owls will fill the skies over Longleat with new displays and additional opportunities for visitors to handle the birds... this is family fun at its very best.

LONGLEAT is open daily until Sunday 4 Novemb er 2012. Christmas at Longleat from 16 November 2012.

MAY HALF TERM 2012

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Breach Lane Equine Centre Breach Lane, Wootton Bassett, Wilts SN4 7QR

PONY PARTIES Call now for details or to book.

PONY DAYS Each Tuesday of School holidays. (Except Christmas)

HORSE RIDING LESSONS Now Taking ADULTS & CHILDREN who are Nervous, Novice or Beginners who want to have ago at horse riding.

Weight limit 12 stone, Children from age 4.

All riding in an enclosed arena.

For more info see web site

www.breachlaneequinecentre.co.uk Phone Alison on 01793 854 660 or Mobile 07855 755 831

PRIMARY TIMES

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DIAMOND MEMORIES ARE FOREVER

From glamorous pop to street parties, the South West celebrates the Queen’s 60th year on the throne in many different ways, says Holly Jenkins.

D

ust off that Union Jack memorabilia and prepare to get patriotic this June, as the country celebrates Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee in style. It’s been 10 years since the Golden Jubilee, when people around the UK held street parties, pageants and parades throughout the year and, if the schedule for her Diamond Jubilee goes as planned, it looks like we’ll be doing our monarch proud this year too.

Of course, the Queen herself kick started celebrations in Wiltshire when she visited Salisbury this May with the Duke of Edinburgh. If the enthusiasm with which she was greeted is any measure, the county is going to be one of the most exciting places in the UK to experience the jubilee.

Back in the capital this June, she starts her

personal celebrations with the traditional processional route from Westminster to Buckingham Palace on the Bank Holiday Tuesday. Following the Did You Kno procession, she will settle w? down for a lavish jubilee The Queen is the se lunch, surrounded by co nd longest serving monarch. So her closest family. To far Queen Victoria still pi mark this, communities ps her to the post with a reigget and schools all over the n aof 63 years!

West country kids region hold celebrations chance to go for gold including street parties, family fun days and firework displays.

In Salisbury’s Hudson’s Field, jousting knights, parachute displays w? from the Red Devils Did You Kno and falconry events is rg co 30 an th e or are set to keep the ned m tly en rr The Queen hasigow cu y jubilee party moving Her Majest w and during her rergisn.– on Monday 4 June. nty, Willo Mo co e re th has The evening finishes Holly. off with an exciting firework finale.

Meanwhile, celebrations are afoot in the historic surroundings 6 MAY HALF TERM 2012

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Alternatively, why not hold your own DIY jubilee party in the comfort of your own home or street?

Making fun, union jack-themed decorations and bunting is also a great way to keep the children entertained during half term.

Full listings, contacts and more information on all the jubilee events are available in our Roundabout pages, which are jam packed with things to see and do throughout June and July.

of Lacock Abbey which holds a Diamond Jubilee Evening Picnic on its beautiful south lawn on Saturday 2 June. Salisbury’s Old Wardour Castle also holds a picnic party packed with music, games and dancing to keep the whole family entertained on Tuesday 5 June.

Perhaps the most ‘A-List’ event in the South West is at Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, on Saturday 2 June, which stages The Bristol Jubilee Concert headlined by pop sensation Pixie Lott. Held in a specially-built outdoor arena, the concert sees X Factor finalist Misha B supporting. While tickets are free, concert-goers are encouraged to donate.

Bath stages a major celebration in the regency city’s Victoria Park.

Two giant screens will be set up at the bottom of the park (Tuesday 5 June) to allow the public to picnic and watch the jubilee celebrations. The day includes a variety of local music.

Bristol Jubilee Concert with Pixie Lott Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, www.mallcribbs.com Diamond Jubilee information www.thediamondjubilee.org Salisbury celebrates at Hudson’s Field www. salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk Street Party at The Abbey www. nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock Picnic fun at Old Wardour Castle www.english-heritage.org.uk

Pixie Lott

PRIMARY TIMES

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Chippenham Museum & Heritage Centre

June Half Term Holiday Activities 2012 The Museum & Heritage Centre will be running a full series of fun, family activities throughout the Half-Term Holidays.

Please contact the Museum or see our Facebook page for full details: www.wiltshire.gov.uk 9-10 Market Place, Chippenham, SN15 3HF 01249 705020 heritage@chippenham.gov.uk

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FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS ★ SALISBURY, SWINDON, TROWBRIDGE & BEYOND

WILTSHIRE THE ARTS CENTRE Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BJ. 01793 614837, www. swindon.gov.uk Swamp Juice Tues 26 Jun. 7pm. £8/£10 • A swamp like no other, where you’ll see fairies, bickering toads and a gentle swamp monster brought to life. Some scenes may be scary for children under 7.

There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly Sun 1 Jul. 2pm. £9.50/£7.50 • Relive the delights of this most charming tale with a games, colourful animal characters and family fun.

The Snail And The Whale Sun 8 Jul. 2pm • Physical storytelling, live music and lots of laughs for everyone aged 4 and up.

THE POUND Pound Pill, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 9HX. 01249 701628, www. poundarts.org.uk Little Red… You Know Who! Sat 9 Jun. 2pm • Taking a well-known traditional story (you can guess which one), this spell-binding play for young children follows a magical path through the woods. Listen to the song of the red box, watch a forest grow before your very eyes and find out how an endearing bear gets in on the action.

SALISBURY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL 0845 241 9651, www.salisburyfestival.co.uk Mr and Mrs Summerwing Sat 2 Jun. 11.30am & 2.30pm. £22 (family ticket, max 2 adults)/£7 (adults)/£5(U16s) • A poetic circus for children 2+, this tells the story of the strange little world of animals that Mr and Mrs Summerwing are getting out of their suitcase.

The Owl and the Pussycat Wed 6 Jun. 11.30am & 2.30pm. £22 (family ticket, max 2 adults)/£7 (adults)/£5 (U16s) • Follow Owl and Pussycat as they set out on the high seas with only some honey, money and a runcible spoon. For ages 3-7.

The Twits Wed 6 Jun. 3.30pm. £35 (family ticket)/£12 (adults)/£7.50 (U16s) • The fantastic Illyria performs Roald Dahl’s classic.

Little Red…You Know Who! Fri 8 Jun. 12pm & 3pm. £22 (family ticket, max 2 adults)/£7 (adults)/£5 (U16s) • This spellbinding play for 3-7 year olds follows a magical path through the woods.

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12 Wilts Theatre listings May Half Term 2012.indd 1

WHARF THEATRE Sidmouth Street, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 1LD. 01380 725944, www.wharftheatre.co.uk Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat Wed 18-Sat 21 Jul. 7.30pm. £7 • The internationally renowned and acclaimed musical has been given the Wharf Youth Theatre makeover and promises bags of energy and pizzazz.

WYVERN THEATRE Theatre Square, Swindon, Wiltshire SN1 1QN. 01793 524481, www.wyverntheatre.org.uk Fireman Sam Sun 1 Jul, 1pm & 3.30pm, £13.00 • Join Fireman Sam and his friends as Pontypandy hosts its first every music festival.

Horrible Histories: The Terrible Tudors Tue 10-Sat 14 Jul. Tue 7pm, Wed 10.30am, Thu 1.30pm, Sat 7pm. £13/£17 • From the horrible Henries to the end of evil Elizabeth, hear the legends (and the lies!) about the torturing Tudors.

Horrible Histories: The Vile Victorians Tue 10-Sat 14 Jul. Wed 1.30pm, Thu 10.30am, Fri 7pm, Sat 2.30pm. £13/£17 • Prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage! With ground-breaking 3D special effects, watch as historical figures and events come alive on stage and hover at your fingertips.

Oz… Sun 15 Jul. 2pm &6pm. £10/£7 • A whirlwind adventure as Dorothy is transported from the dusty plains of Kansas to the darkly decadent world of Oz. Hairy Maclary and Friends Sat 28 July, 1pm &4pm. £10 • Hairy Maclary and his friends are springing onto the stage this summer.

FURTHER AFIELD THE BACON THEATRE Dean Close School, Shelbourne Road, Cheltenham GL51 6HE. 01242 258002, www.bacontheatre.co.uk The Owl Who was Afraid of the Dark Sun 29 Jul. 5pm. £7/£10/£30 • Based on the classic children’s tale, this show has all the ingredients for an enchanting afternoon. An irresistible blend of live music, puppetry and storytelling – it’s sure to be a hoot! This event is part of the open air theatre festival so bring your own seating and suitable clothing The Railway Children Fri 3 Aug.

The delightful Hairy Maclary takes centre stage at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon on Saturday 28 July

7pm. £11/£13/£40 • This tender production guarantees to have the whole family up on their feet and cheering, telling the story of Bobbie, Peter and Phyllis as their gentle Edwardian lifestyle is turned upside down when they relocate to a remote Yorkshire village. This event is part of the open air theatre festival so bring your own seating and suitable clothing.

THE BRISTOL HIPPODROME Saint Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www. bristolhippodrome.org.uk The Phantom of the Opera Tues 22 May-Sat 30 Jun. 7.30pm (Sat matinees 2.30pm) • Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit musical wows West Country audiences with 19th century French author Gaston Leroux’s tragic story of unrequited love between a disfigured musical genius and a beautiful opera singer.

BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org.uk Swamp Juice Fri 22-Sat 23 Jun. 1.30pm & 6pm (Fri), 11am & 1.30pm (Sat). £8 • See The Arts Centre, Devizes I, Peasebottom and I, Caliban Wed 6-Sun 24 Jun. £21.50 (family ticket, 2 adults and up to 3 children)/£7/£5 concessions • Two of Shakespeare’s plays performed in a host of inspiring North Somerset settings, look on the website for more information.

THE EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www. theatreroyal.org.uk Potato Needs a Bath Fri 8–Sun 10 June. Fri 1.30pm, Sat 11.30am & 3pm, Sun 2pm. £7/£5.50 • Potato has mud on his face.

Potato has mud in his ears.

Potato needs a bath. A lighthearted, gentle and highly visual new show featuring fruit, veg and original music.

The Girl with Iron Claws Fri 29-Sat 30 Jun. 10.30am & 1pm (Fri), 11.30am & 3pm (Sat), £7/£5.50 (children & students) • The Wrong Crowd theatre company presents a display of stunning puppetry and deft humour.

Ruby Red Tells Tales Sat 14 Jul. 11.30am and 3pm. £7/£5.50 • Ruby and her friend Ella are waiting interminably. To pass the time they squabble, sing and tell stories of a timid tiger, a slightly scary spider and a gingerbread man.

EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www. everymantheatre.org.uk Oliver! Tues 19-Sat 23 Jun. 7pm (2pm & 7.45pm Sat) • Cheltenham Operatic and Dramatic Society brings Charles Dickens’ well-loved tale to our stage. This is a family musical not to be missed.

THE ROSES THEATRE Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX. 01684 295074, www. rosestheatre.org There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly Wed 6 Jun. 2.30pm, £6.50 • Relive the delights of this most charming tale with a games, colourful animal characters and family fun.

Little Red Riding Hood and The Three Little Pigs Sat 9 Jun. 8pm. £11.50/£12.50 • Ballet Cymru brings to life these timeless stories using the company’s unique blend of classical dance technique and storytelling.

Pinocchio Sat 30 Jun. 2.30pm. £5 • The classic story of a puppet’s quest to become a real boy. An enchanting new adaptation.

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ROUNDABOUT Your ultimate family diary of what’s on, where & when

Deadlines: List your school’s events in Primary Times for free.

We work a half term in advance so we’re now collecting information for July, August and September 2012: deadline Mon 18 June 2012. If your event is to raise cash for a school or charity, and is open to the public, we want to know. Email mike.gartside@ venue.co.uk.

Henry VIII will be holding audiences at various times throughout the day where you can also take part in some Tudor style crafts.

SUN 3 JUN AT-BRISTOL’S ROYAL JUBILEE PROMOTION At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www. at-bristol.org.uk • To celebrate the Royal Jubilee, At-Bristol is offering all Elizabeths’ the chance to have a right Royal knees-up of their own with free entry to At-Bristol (take ID). Then take your picnic out onto Millennium Square and watch The Big Lunch and HM the Queen’s royal celebrations on the big screen.

PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL While we make every effort to ensure these listings are accurate and up to date, event information can sometimes change after we’ve gone to press. Please check with the venue or organiser before you set off to an event to make sure it’s going ahead as planned . . . and tell them you saw it in Primary Times!

Time Travellers go Roman at Old Sarum, Saturday 2-Sunday 3 June.

JUNE ONGOING SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN AT STEAM Museum of the Great Western Railway, Fire Fly Avenue, Kemble Drive, Swindon SN2 2EY. 01793 466637, www.steam-museum. org.uk • Plenty to entertain all members of the family, including arts and crafts sessions and the Smiley Cats Kidz Club.

UNTIL SAT 2 JUN ROYAL BATH AND WEST SHOW The Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 6QN. www.bathandwest.com, 9am, £22/£7, (reduced prices if booked in advance) • One of the country’s biggest rural events featuring pet baby animals, rides at the fair, canoeing, birds of prey and lots more.

UNTIL 10 JUN TEN DRAWINGS BY LEONARDO DA VINCI Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, Queen’s Road, Bristol BS8 1RL. 0117 922 3571, 10am-5pm, free • As part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations Bristol Museum displays 10 of Leonardo Da Vinci’s finest drawings, on loan from the Royal library.

UNTIL MON 30 JUL SMARTIES Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin Street, Salisbury. SP1 3UT. 01722 321744, www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk/whats-on, 10am • Explore arts and crafts in this fun session for young children age 1 - 3 years (must be accompanied by an adult).

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SAT 2 JUN GANDINI JUGGLINGSMASHED! City Hall, Malthouse Lane, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP2 7TU. 08452 419651, www.salisburyartsfestival.co.uk, 7.30pm. £17.50/£14.50/£10.50/£10 • Smashed! combines nine performers, 80 apples and crockery galore.

An exciting and daring performance as part of the Salisbury Arts Festival.

SAT 2 JUN DIAMOND JUBILEE EVENING PICNIC Lacock Abbey, Lacock, nr.

Chippenham SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/lacock • Lacock Abbey holds a street party on its beautiful south lawn. Take along a picnic and enjoy an evening of music to celebrate the reign of Elizabeth II, including prizes for the best silly jubilee hat.

Features band The Redfords.

SAT 2 JUN BRISTOL JUBILEE CONCERT WITH PIXIE LOTT The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, BS34 5DG. www.mallcribbs. com • The Mall at Cribbs Causeway holds a Bristol Jubilee Concert to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in style. Pixie Lott is the headline act for the free concert, supported by X Factor Finalist Misha B. Fans are asked to make a voluntary donation of £1 per ticket, and encouraged to check the website for a full list of ticket giveaway dates.

SAT 2-SUN 3 JUN TIME TRAVELLERS GO… ROMAN English Heritage, Old Sarum Castle Road, Salisbury, Wiltshire

SP1 3SD. 08703 331181, www. english-heritage.org.uk. 11am-5pm • Learn what life was really like as a Roman soldier. Take part in a variety of hands-on activities from games to drills and crafts and even handle real Roman weapons and objects.

SUN 3 JUN MEET HENRY VIII Lacock Abbey, Lacock, Chippenham, Wiltshire. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

10.30am-4.30pm • Meet one of the Tudors’ most famous characters.

MON 4 JUN JUBILIEE EVENT IN SALISBURY Hudson’s Field, Castle Road, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 3SA. 01722 342869, www. salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk, 2pm • Enjoy truly British activities and amusements including live music, jousting knights, a parachute display from the Red Devils, falconry displays and much more.

There’s a firework finale at 10pm.

MON 4-TUES 5 JUN POND DIPPING Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon SN5 3PA. 01793 770401, lydiardpark@ swindon.gov.uk, 11am-12noon & 1.30pm-2.30pm, £3 (child) • Join a fun pond dipping session to discover the secret wildlife that can be found in the lake at Lydiard. »

Preview Ping! Bristol Various locations 29 June to 27 July 2012 This summer, 46 ping pong tables will pop up across Bristol’s best-loved landmarks, public spaces and squares, shopping centres, parks and museums from M Shed to Millennium Square and Colston Hall to Bristol Zoo. There will even be tables at the harbourside fountains, ss Great Britain and Ashton Court Estate.

Marked ‘Stop and Play’, the tables are up for four weeks for all to enjoy, for free. All you need to do to join in the fun is pick up a bat from the side of the table and get playing. From ping pong master classes to competitions and random acts of ping pong, there will be ‘round the table’ activities for everyone to join in. And it’s totally free.

For a full list of Ping! Bristol table locations and events, visit www.pingbristol.net

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kids combat adventures

outdoor laser games

Join Cpl. Spike for a GREAT BIRTHDAY PARTY at his Woodland Battlefield 2 mins Chippenham Jct 17 M4 Recruits must be minimum age 9

Hey Kids! Our Hi-Tech Equipment has Halo Technology.

Hey Mum! No Projectiles so No Bruising when shot Unlimited Ammo. FOC

ration packs available Open All Year Round—Pre-Booking Essential For More Information Please Call 01249 721196

www.jcompany.co.uk

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PRIMARY TIMES

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PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!

ROUNDABOUT

TUE 5 JUN JUBILEE PICNIC PARTY Old Wardour Castle, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP3 6RR. www.englishheritage.org.uk. 11am-5pm. £4 (adult) £2.40 children • Celebrate the Diamond Jubilee at the beautiful grounds of Old Wardour Castle.

With your picnic packed, music, games and dancing will keep the whole family entertained.

TUE 5 JUN JUBILEE AT VICTORIA PARK Royal Victoria Park, Marlborough Lane, Bath BA1 2NQ. 0870 240 6783, visitbath.co.uk/groups/ festivals-and-events/queen-sjubilee-picnic-in-the-park • Two giant screens will be set up at the bottom of the Royal Victoria Park to allow the public to picnic and watch the Jubilee celebrations.

The day will also include a variety of local music.

WED 6–FRI 8 JUN HALF TERM WORKSHOPS Museum of East Asian Art,12 Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QJ. 01225 464 640, www.meaa.org.uk • Dragon boat-themed workshops making dancing dragon puppets, dragon boats and paper dragon boat festival ‘dumplings’. Book and pay at least three days in advance.

Lots of half term fun to be had at Swindon’s STEAM

5-15)/Free (under 5). Day tickets available • Wychwood returns to Cheltenham with a great line up and an amazing selection of workshops, arts and crafts and dance classes for adults and children.

Lydiard Park hosts Greenwood Animal Sculptures, Thursday 7-Friday 8 June

THU 7–FRI 8 JUN BEE-UTIFUL WORLD Lacock Abbey, Lacock, near Chippenham SN15 2LG. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/lacock, 11am-3pm • Join the Garden team at Lacock Abbey to discover the fascinating world of the bee.

THU 7-FRI 8 JUN GREENWOOD ANIMAL SCULPTURES Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon SN5 3PA. 01793 770401, lydiardpark@ swindon.gov.uk, 10.30am-12pm & 1pm-2.30pm, £4 (child) • Use wood and craft materials to create your own woodland animal or insect to take home. Booking is essential.

FRI 8-SUN 10 JUN WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL Cheltenham Racecourse, Gloucester GL50 4SH. www. wychwoodfestival.com, £90-£115 (adults/concessions weekend festival ticket)/£15-£55 (children PRIMARY TIMES

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FRI 8 JUN BREATHTAKING BLOW FOOTBALL Trowbridge Museum, The Shires Shopping Centre, Court Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire. 01225 751339, 10.30am,11.10am,11.50am ,1.30pm,2.10pm & 2.50pm, free • Kick-off the Euro 2012 championships with this fun and realistic blow football workshop. Suitable for 5+.

SAT 9 JUN PARTY IN THE CLOSE The Close, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP1 2EJ. 08452 419651, www. salisburyartsfestival.co.uk, 7pm. £17.50/£10.50 • Live music, entertainment and fireworks for the whole family to celebrate the renowned Salisbury Arts Festival and to bring it to a close.

SAT 9–SUN 10 JUN HALF TERM EVENTS Museum of East Asian Art,12 Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QJ.

01225 464 640, www.meaa.org. uk • Pop in during the half-term weekends to do a dragon trail around the museum, and learn about the stories behind museum’s dragon-themed collections.

SAT 9-SUN 17 JUN BIG GREEN WEEK Venues include Colston Hall, The Watershed, The Arnolfini, M-Shed and the mysterious Nowhere Island Embassy, Bristol, www.biggreenweek.com • International festival of environmental ideas, art and culture.

SUN 10 JUN BOWOOD CHARITY DOG SHOW AND SUMMER FAIR Bowood, Derry Hill, Calne SN11 9PQ. 01249 822228, www.bowooddogshow.org • The seventh Bowood Charity Dog Show and Summer Fair featuring Tractor Ted’s Farm Show, Joseph’s Amazing Racing Pigs and the Blazing Saddles Stunt Team. A quintessentially British summer event.

TUE 12 JUN-SUN 17 JUN CHELTENHAM SCIENCE FESTIVAL Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/science • The Times Cheltenham Science Festival will transform Cheltenham Town Hall and Imperial gardens into the ultimate venue for discovery, debate and hands-on fun with thousands of people taking part in hundreds of events and activities throughout the site.

THUR 14 JUN WILTSHIRE SCRAPSTORE FUNDRAISING DAY Unit 5, Griffin Estate, Bowden Hill, Lacock, Wiltshire SN15 2PP. 01249 730011, www.wiltsplay.org.uk, 11am-7pm • This well established charity, which runs regular Make and Play sessions for early years,

plus school holiday art sessions, is currently on a major fundraising drive, following the loss of all its public funding earlier this year. As part of ‘Small Charities Week’ this day features a tour of Scrapstore’s facilities, complete with shelves of recycled fabric, and boxes and baskets of other reclaimed materials. And, of course, there’s plenty of opportunity to take part in a range of crafty activities.

SAT 16–SUN 17 JUN KINGTON LANGELEY SCARECROW FESTIVAL Middle Common, Kington Langley, nr. Chippenham SN15. www.scarecrows.biz, 10am– 5pm • A great family day out, including guess the name of the scarecrow, picture trails and fairground rides, a craft fair and refreshments. Groups of four are challenged to compete in the ‘Scrapheap Challenge’ where you have 40 minutes to build a scarecrow from a pile of scrap material.

SAT 16-SUN 17 JUN BRISTOL FESTIVAL OF NATURE Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7300, www.bristolzoo.org.uk/whats-on or www. festivalofnature.org • Activities for all ages, including interactive exhibits from BBC Natural History Unit, Bristol Zoo Gardens, talks from famous faces and more. »

Blow football will take your breath away at Trowbridge Museum, Friday 8 June

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ROUNDABOUT Tiny Tiles, Trowbridge Museum, Saturday 14 July.

PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES!

free (under 16s) • Stonehenge will be transformed into a glowing fairy tale environment where fire sculptures dance in the landscape, flaming fire pots animate the stones and cascades of candles line the pathways.

SAT 14 JUL BRIDGE LEARNING CAMPUS SUMMER FAYRE Bridge Learning Campus, Bishport Avenue, Hartcliffe, Bristol BS13 OR1. 11am-2pm. 50p (adult)/free (children) • Hot and cold refreshments, raffle, face painting, lucky envelopes, plus many more things to see and do.

SAT 14 JUL TINY TILES Trowbridge Museum, The Shires Shopping Centre, Court Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire. 01225 751339, 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.15pm, 2.15pm & 3.15pm, free • Create your own tile, made of tiny fragments of ceramics. Suitable for 8+.

MON 25 JUN- SUN 1 JUL NATIONAL INSECT WEEK Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. 01453 891900 or 01453 891223. www.wwt.org.uk, eleanor.wise@wwt.org.uk • This week-long insect special has a variety of creepy crawly activities. With fascinating fact trails and art-based activities, this event will go down a treat.

Mendip, Somerset BA3 4GP. 01761 241493, 12.30pm-3.30pm • Fun races and events for all ages, fancy dress and colouring competitions, raffle, games and traditional stalls. Entertainment and refreshments available. Fun for all the family!

TUE 26–SUN 1 JUL CHALKE VALLEY HISTORY FESTIVAL Eden Field, Manor Farm, Ebbesbourne Wake, Wiltshire SP5 5JH. 020 8488 3764 • A variety of speakers and events suitable for all the family over the festival weekend . including Michael Morpurgo (former Children’s Laureate and author of ‘War Horse’) and Martin Brown (‘Horrible Histories’) There is also ‘Living History’ events where children can interact with displays and interpretations.

SAT 7 JUL BRIDGE FARM PRIMARY SCHOOL SUMMER FAYRE Bridge Farm Primary School, East Dundry Road, Whitchurch, Bristol BS14 0LL. 0117 903 0420, 11am–2pm. 50p adults, children free • Join Bridge Farm Primary school at their annual summer fayre. Activities include a tombola, raffle, face painting and bouncy castle. Hot and cold refreshments available.

SAT 30 JUN WOMAD Bristol Zoo, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7300, www. bristolzoo.org.uk, 6pm, £45 (family ticket)/£20 (adults)/£5 (children) • You will enjoy two stages offering some of the best in the world music, as well as children’s workshops, stalls and entertainment from the renowned music festival, WOMAD. SAT 30 JUN CHEWTON MENDIP ‘OLYMPIC’ FETE 2012 Chewton Mendip Primary School Grounds, Chewton 14

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JULY

SAT 7-SUN 8 JUL ROYAL INTERNATIONAL AIR TATTOO. Fairford, Gloucestershire, GL7 4RB, UK, www.airtattoo.com.

Under 16’s go free accompanied by an adult, although tickets must be purchased in advance • Get ready to be wowed by the return of the Red Arrows. This annual military air show is packed with speed, history and adrenaline. With various showcases and fairground rides, there is something for all the family.

TUES 10-THU 12 JUL FIRE GARDEN Stonehenge, A344 Salisbury, Nr Amesbury Wiltshire SP4 7DE. 02380 711818, www.ticketsouth. co.uk, 9pm-midnight. £3 (adults)/

SAT 14 JUL BIG ARTS DAY Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon SN5 3PA. 01793 770401, www. lydiardpark.org.uk, 12noon-11pm • Swindon’s amazing arts festival returns with even more live music, dance, workshops, crafts and a spectacular finale.

SAT 14 JUL SUMMER STORY BUS: LOCAL LEGENDS Dep. outside Colston Hall, Colston Street, Bristol. 074455 57666. www.citysightseeingbristol.co.uk/publictrips/tickets.php, 5.30pm, £5.30 (adults)/£3 (children) • Bristol storyteller Martin Maudsley promises a spellbinding journey on this open top bus tour around Bristol, weaving the cityscape in with tall stories, charming folk tales and heartwarming yarns. Great for all ages.

SUN 15 JUL CIVIL WAR FAMILY DAY Wiltshire Heritage Museum, 41 Long Street, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 1NS. 01380 727369, wanhs@ wiltshireheritage.org.uk, 11am4pm, £4 (adults)/free (children) • Celebrate the festival of British Archaeology. Fun craft and archaeological activities for all the family.

SAT 16-SUN 17 JUN OLD TOWN FESTIVAL Old Town, Swindon. www.oldtownfestival.co.uk, 9am-4pm • Featuring fantastic street performers, top live music, Carnival Queen & Princess competitions, as well as a broad range of Swindon’s finest talent.

FRI 20 JUL-SUN 22 JUL BRISTOL HARBOUR FESTIVAL Lloyds Amphitheatre, ss Great Britain, Cascade Steps, Queen Square, Castle Park and other Bristol Harbourside settings, www. bristolharbourfestival.co.uk • Bristol’s best established summer festival takes over the Harbourside

and other central locations with a fun-packed programme of music, circus and theatre.

FRI 27-SUN 29 JUL WOMAD FESTIVAL Charlton Park, Charlton, Malmesbury, Wiltshire SN16 9DG. www.womad.co.uk • WOMAD Charlton Park is one of the most unique festivals of the UK season providing both children and adults with a weekend full of world music discovery.

SAT 28 JUL THE PICKWICK PAPERS The Museum in the Park, Stratford Park, Stroud GL5 4AF. 01453 760900, 7.30pm. £25 (family ticket, 2 adults & 2 concessions)/£10, £8 (friends/concessions) • Join the jolly Mr Pickwick and his friend Mr Winkle as they journey around the English countryside. Take a picnic, blankets and seating. Outdoor production, weather permitting!

TUE 31 JUL MR PUNCH’S PICNIC Lacock Abbey, Lacock, Chippenham, Wiltshire. 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org. uk, 11am • Celebrating his 350th Birthday, Mr. Punch is up to his usual tricks with Judy and the crocodile.

AUGUST WED 1 AUG FIFTH ANNUAL WINTERSLOW PLAYDAY Winterslow Recreation Ground, Winterslow, Salisbury SP5 1RD. 07584 732119, 12pm-4pm. Free admission • Fun activity event open to all, including climbing wall, crafts, bouncy castles, waterslide, parkour, archery and junk modeling.

FRI 24 AUG-MON 3 SEP GIFFORDS CIRCUS Marlborough Common, Marlborough, Wiltshire. 08454 597469, www.giffordscircus. com. £21/£14 • With four handbalancing Russians, a young gentleman wire walker, an owl, the Victorians and Brian the goose with a supporting cast of eight English dogs.

SUN 26-MON 27 AUG DEVIZES INTERNATIONAL STREET FESTIVAL Market Place, Devizes, Wilts SN10 1JG. 01380 723099, www. streetsofdevizes.co.uk, free admission • A big, family event with an all-day programme, featuring theatre and live music, kids’ entertainment, food, drink and festival stalls.

Thanks to Holly Jenkins, Charlotte Le Lohé and Katie McDonald for their help with Roundabout and Theatre listings this issue.

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Beware over-ostentatious gifts

GET CRAFTY FOR TEACHERS Should children give their teachers presents, asks Charlotte Le Lohé? And, if so, how can they be sure of giving them something meaningful?

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t’s the last day of term and you, the teacher, are packing away the last of your paperwork.

As the children file gleefully out of their last class, one pupil steps forward with an elaborately wrapped parcel, or maybe an envelope. In the parcel is a bottle of champagne, while the envelope might contain a pair of opera tickets. You gasp and thank them, of course, but you wonder whether maybe this is a gift too far? The rights and wrongs of pupils’ gifts to teachers is an issue regularly debated by professional bodies and the media. The chances are, most teachers won’t recognise this scenario if, as the National Union of Teachers (NUT) Newswire Digest once commented, “the average teacher doesn’t receive presents worth more than a fiver.”

However, the potential for inappropriate giving exists. At best it could be a display of ostentation which might alienate other children and families. At worst it could lead to (or result from) favouritism and even preferential treatment in the classroom.

A survey carried out by the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL) in 2010 reported that 47% of staff receive gifts twice a year and that 66% of presents were given directly by the pupil. Most of the gifts were worth under £5 (58%), while a further 37% were worth between £5 and £10. It’s clear then, that most gifts fall well within what might be considered an acceptable token of gratitude, although one wonders how the recipients felt opening the most extravagant gifts reported in the ATL survey: a Mulberry handbag, a brace of pheasants and opera vouchers worth £200. Significantly, the PRIMARY TIMES

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report said that the most popular gifts among staff were personalised items such as paintings by a student of their teacher or handmade jewellery and cards.

For many children the most important part of giving a gift is to express their gratitude. For some it goes deeper, especially if their teacher has helped them through a difficult time.

The ATL’s findings are echoed by one working teacher. “Gifts given to the teachers by pupils and their parents are generally much appreciated,” says Diana Rejiester from the Royal High Junior School in Bath. “It’s nice to show a token of thanks to teachers, who work very hard. However, there shouldn’t be any expectation or obligation for the pupil to give a gift.”

There’s clear value to both pupil and teacher in presenting a small gift at the end of the year. The pupil learns to express gratitude and the meaning of giving, while the teacher gains a well-earned morale boost. It’s equally clear that something home-made, expressing the pupil’s personality will be the most appreciated by the recipient.

With this in mind, and the end of the school year on the horizon, here are a few crafty ways for children to treat their teachers to something nice.

Decorated fairy cakes Add a personal touch to your cupcakes by decorating them yourself. It’s quick and easy and will show off your creativity. Not only will you have fun doing it but your teachers will love it! All you need is: plain cupcakes (bought or made), ready-made writing icing, some icing sugar, sprinkles and food colouring (optional). An

inspirational idea to get your artistic juices flowing; try drawing your favourite shapes on top of bright pink icing sprinkled with hundreds and thousands.

thing a bit more challenging you could always stitch some material together with the lavender sack inside to make a pretty little bag for it.

Thank-you cards Buying cards is never that personal, so instead why not make your own. After all it is something that can be kept forever and remembered. All you need is some card, felt tip pens, glue, sparkly bits and pieces . . . then embellish away.

Association of Teachers and Lecturers W: www.atl.org.uk National Union of Teachers W: www.teachers.org.uk

Lavender bags Great little gift to place under a pillow to ease sleep or put in a clothes drawer to keep things smelling fresh. All you need is a pair of your mum’s old tights (preferably clean!) and some dried lavender, it doesn’t get easier than that. If you feel like doing some-

And, if you’re stuck for materials or ideas, check out some of the local craft suppliers listed here.

Inkspot T: 01793 537775 W: www. swindonweb.com/inkspot/ The Makery T: 01225 421175 W: www.themakeryonline.co.uk Studley Grange Craft Village W: www.studleygrange.co.uk UK Card Craft W: www. ukcardcrafts.com/ourshop/ cat_389844-Salisbury-Craft-ShopCraft-Supplies-UK-Card-Craf.html The Works W: www.theworks. co.uk MAY HALF TERM 2012

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi In for a Pound If you’re looking for something to keep your children amused this summer, the Pound Arts Centre, Corsham, has an excellent range of June shows and activities guaranteed to entertain the whole family.

Freehand Theatre company brings ‘Little Red… You Know Who’ to the venue on Saturday 9 June, with its twist on the traditional fairy tale. You can also enjoy films on the big screen with Happy Feet Two on Friday 8 June and War Horse on Thursday 14 June.

For those that like to flex their creative muscles, there’s an exciting workshop programme including digital photography on Wenesday 6 June (suitable for ages 6-11), and a Crafty Saturday on 16 June where all the family can make creative havoc with artist Mazy Bartlett. The Pound is taking part in the annual Corsham Summer Festival and will be hosting a family fun day as part of the festivities.

Ffi: 01249 701628, www.poundarts. org.uk

Ffi: 01249 701628, www.poundarts.

Free range holidays: let’s play

Bluestone National Park Resort is an all-weather luxury short break destination like no other. Relax, unwind or play and have fun in over 500 acres of spectacular Pembrokeshire countryside. Bluestone is all about free range holidays.

From generational family breaks, romantic short breaks, or celebrating an occasion with friends, guests can choose from a range of luxury lodges set around a private Welsh village with cottages and studio apartments, fine dining restaurants, shops, a pub and its very own holistic spa and thermal rooms.

Choose from heart pumping activities in the Steep Ravine; splashing fun in the Blue Lagoon waterpark; the Adventure Centre, with its climbing walls and ball pits; Discovery Zone and Wild Wood Café.

For those wanting to unwind The Well Spa has holistic treatments and invigorating thermal rooms, restaurants, a village pub, countryside walks and cycle routes. Combine this with visits to nearby coastal towns and you have a perfect short break destination, whatever the weather.

Ffi: Bluestone National Park Resort W: www.bluestonewales.com/ letsplay

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A simple solution to lost property My Name Label makes it easier for children to avoid the lost property box and take responsibility for their belongings, with eye-catching labels that you can design yourself from a range of colours, lettering styles and pictures.

Personalised name stickers are ideal for lunch boxes, drink containers, bags, books - anything with a clean smooth surface. They are microwave and dishwasher safe on most plastics. There’s no need to worry about reapplying marker pen that has washed off. Also available are iron-on clothing labels, shoe labels, bag tags, school book labels and more.

My Name Label can also be used as a fundraiser with minimal effort. Visit the website to order securely online, or find out more.

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

Join in the Jubilee!

Swindon Museum and Art Gallery celebrates the Jubilee by hosting a fun, free 1950s-style family tea party on Saturday 2 June from 1-4pm.

Everyone is invited to bring their own picnic and enjoy this unique indoor street party, which will include 1950s fun and games, traditional cakes, tea and coffee. Feel free to dress up, bring games you remember from times gone by or just pop in to enjoy the atmosphere.

There’ll also be opportunities for you to create your own bunting to add to the museum’s decorations and explore the Jubilee exhibition at the venue. The event is suitable for all ages.

Ffi: 01793 466556, www.swindon.gov. uk/museumandartgallery

Ffi: T: 0870 850 7897 W: www. mynamelabel.co.uk

Wiltshire’s family heritage fun There are lots of fun things for families to see and do this summer at the Wiltshire Heritage Museum, Devizes.

With fun ‘interactives’, quizzes and trails throughout the galleries, and art and craft activities for all ages during the holidays, children will not get bored!

This summer, as part of the museum’s ‘Story of Devizes Exhibition’, fun workshops allow children to make their own castle, design medieval seals and shields, and create their own brass rubbings (Booking is essential for these workshops).

Then, on July 15, a family day is part of the Festival of Archaeology. Come face to face with Civil War soldiers, try on costumes, and make 17th century toys, pottery, face jugs and herb bags.

You can also take part in a variety of archaeologically themed activities and see a range of archaeological finds from the local area (no booking needed for this event).

In the summer holidays there are be more-art based activities including Georgian crafts, a textile day, stained glass mosaics and Greek Olympic art and crafts.

Ffi: Learning and outreach officer Ali Rushent T: 01380 727369 W: www. wiltshireheritage.org.uk E: education@wiltshireheritage.org.uk

Music and sights Escape to the magnificent Larmer Tree Gardens between 11-15 July and discover an exciting playground for all the family to enjoy. The five day Larmer Tree Festival has an intimate atmosphere and offers entertainment for all ages in safe, stunning surroundings.

Not only is there 11 acres of magical gardens to explore, there’s also a free, fun packed kids’ programme of shows, hands-on activities and workshops, as well as a carnival and storytelling. Highlights include Emmy Award-winning Farmer Jason with his lively music show, an Origami Puppet Workshop, Sticky Fingers Drop-In Sessions, and Ratty, Mole and Mr Toad.

Plus, there’s a YouthZone and activities for under 5s.

On top of that, enjoy a bursting line-up of music, hilarious comedy and amusing street theatre. Headliners include Paloma Faith, Amadou & Mariam, Jools Holland, Levellers, Roots Manuva, Tim Minchin, Greg Davies Milton Jones and The Horne Section.

Tickets include free parking and family camping. Under 5s go free and there are special concessions for under 18s.

Ffi: 023 8071 1820, www.larmertreefestival.co.uk

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Adver tising Feature

Loving the lemurs To highlight its lemur conservation projects, the Cotswold Wildlife Park has announced its first Lemur Week from 4 – 8 June, featuring a variety of lemur-based events.

Throughout the week there will be lemur talks by the park’s knowledgeable keepers, plus a host of other activities to help lemur conservation: full information will be on the notice board when visitors arrive.

For a £1 donation, you can take part in a lemur trail which encourages you to find facts hidden around the park, spelling out a mystery word. Proceeds from this will go to the park’s lemur projects in Madagascar.

There’s also a dressing up competition: children who turn up to the Madagascar talk at 12 noon during Lemur Week dressed as a lemur can help feed the animals.

Alternatively, get creative and enter the drawing competition – send the park your drawings or paintings of lemurs to win family tickets and a lemur encounter. Post entries to the address below by 8 June 2012. And don’t forget to write your name and contact details on the back.

• Ffi: Lemur Week 4 – 8 June, Cotswold Wildlife Park (CWP), Burford, Oxfordshire OX18 4JP T: 01993 823 006 W: www. cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Adver tising Feature

Experience the Futsal thrill!

Missing penalties in Champions League semi-finals is not the only thing Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have in common. Both developed their early football skills by playing Futsal, a five-a-side indoor game that was popularised in Brazil.

It is officially recognised by FIFA, the sport’s governing body, and is becoming increasingly popular in Britain.

In Swindon, the @Futsal arena in Kembrey Park caters for players of all levels, from “veterans” who simply want to play with friends, to Academy youngsters who aspire to be stars of the future.

Arena manager Lee Rowlands oversees a packed programme of league and cup matches for all ages and genders, but the arena also helps children aged 4 and over to obtain educational qualifications through courses, after school clubs and Saturday/Sunday AM clubs.

“With Futsal, youngsters benefit from a mixture of learning programmes combined with soccer skills,” says Lee. “The qualifications can lead into further education onto the job ladder. Others just take great delight in playing a Futsal game or two in one of our leagues.” The arena can also be booked for kids’ parties.

Events: Half-Term Soccer Camps Jubilee Half Term Camp 6-8 June, 8 or 9am start, £18 per day with three day booking discount.

Summer Camps 23-27 July, 6-10 Aug, 28-31 Aug. Open Tournament European Championship End of June. Up to 25 adult male teams compete for “amazing” prizes. To take part, register your team online. Sponsored by Joma.

• Ffi: @Futsal T: 01793 617072 W: www.futsaluk.net

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5/16/2012 3:12:49 PM

Adver tising Feature

The message is plain Every year, another 340,000 children in the UK are tempted in some shape or form to try smoking. Research has shown us that they are more likely to be attracted by highly designed tobacco packs than by plain packs. From brightly coloured packs that appear to be crayon boxes at first glance, to ‘slims’ designed to conjure up an image of a more elegant lifestyle, supermarket shelves are crammed full of enticing and sophisticated designs.

Smokefree South West, the organisation set up to tackle smoking for the region, is heading up a partnership of leading charities and health bodies to highlight how tobacco packaging can be used to attract the next generation of smokers. A world leading campaign will be seen across the South West and in other areas nationally on billboards, online and at community events.

The government has also committed to run a consultation on the plain packaging of tobacco products this spring. If introduced this new legislation could help cigarette packaging look less attractive to children, make the health warnings stand out more and stop young smokers believing that some brands are less harmful than others. Darrell Gale, consultant in Public Health at NHS Wiltshire and chair of Wiltshire’s Tobacco Control Alliance, said: “Smoking is still cool to many children and young people - aided by brightly coloured packs. Plain packaging removes the tobacco industry’s only remaining legal means of promotion to the young.”

You can support the campaign by promoting it in your local area and encouraging people to find out more.

• Ffi and to sign up: www.plainpacksprotect.co.uk.

Adver tising Feature

Go-Kart Parties for 4-9 year olds Give your child a birthday they will never forget. Go-Kart Party runs karting parties both indoors and outdoors at a leisure centre near you.

The karts are electric so there are no fumes and the little ones can use them safely, under supervision, in an organised party. The company is fully insured and has CRB checked operators.

If you’re feeling the pinch in the recession, why not have a joint party with another child in their class and share the costs? The company runs parties and events seven days a week so parents can club together during the holidays and organise some fun time for a group. Go-Kart Party also attends fetes, carnivals, family corporate days and shopping centres, so don’t miss out on an attraction that will bring children and families to your event.

• Ffi: T: 07810 113457 W: www. gokartpartywiltshire.com

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5/16/2012 3:13:24 PM

Arty Barty

Hello Kids!

Last issue, I asked you to send in your pictures of the life of a sailor or passenger on the ss Thank you so much for the Great Britain. Well done to the winners, who win a family ticket to Brunel’s wonderful ship. wonderful pictures of life on the ss Great Britain when Consolation prizes of a free book go to other published pictures. it was a working passenger linter. You interpreted the Scott Granger, 6, Preshu ideas beautifully, and the Manton, Wiltshirte Primary, Ellie Olagunju, 9, Then e tto Th Wo e , pa ool sse Sch ng standard was very high, so try tish er Bri Sc Great Britain hasott imagines on the ss under Edge the most impressi again if your picture didn’t get walrus moustache ve an published this time.

Victorian era of d properly evokes the steam ship trave Ellie has pictured the l.

The theme for pictures on rss Great Britain ove my page next issue is getting run with jolly pirates, packed for your summer engaged in scrubbing holidays. Try to capture the the decks, steering the hubbub as your parents get ship and eating some pirate rations, all careready to take you away on fully drawn in a pleasing your summer adventures. mix of biro and pencil.

Think about what you’re going to bring and what WINNER! happens if you can’t take everything.

Please send your pictures to: Arty Barty, Venue Publishing, 4th Floor, BN&Media, Temple Anna Lloyd, 7, Elmlea Junior Way, Bristol BS99 7HD, or School, Bristol email high resolution jpegs s picture is an Thi excellent social commentary on the different classes aboard. I like the attention to the small details such as the rats in the third class cabin.

to my editor, mike.gartside@ venue.co.uk. Don’t forget to put your name, age, full postal address and school on the back: Deadline Wednesday 20 June .

Have fun!

WINNER!

Fatiha Uurpratiwi, 9, Callicroft Primary School, Bristol A pen and ink drawing depicting all types of cargo on the ship, from the passengers and sailors to the pigs and chickens. And is that a mermaid leading the ship?

Arty

Charlotte Le Lohé reviews the new releases.

Don’t call them fairies!

The Tollins are tiny, fragile winged creatures who most definitely are not fairies. Back in their home of Chorleywood, we follow them through trials and tribulations in three action packed stories. The first ‘Romeo and Beryl’ is a tale of two Tollins who put on a love filled amateur dramatic play, while a new craze of Dragonfly racing sweeps the town. ‘Radio’ sees the Dark Tollins of Dorset approach in an armed invasion, what will our heroes do to save themselves? Finally, in ‘Bones’, Sparkler and his band of Tollins goes to the rescue on a mission of mercy. From the best-selling author of ‘The Dangerous Book For Boys’, this makes great reading for the seven and over age group and will keep the whole family chuckling. This never-beforeseen species is also wonderfully illustrated. (CL) Dynamite Tales by Conn Iggulden, HarperCollins Children’s Books (paperback), £5.99 20 MAY HALF TERM 2012

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Respect due

Monsters vs Maud

Meet Frank, an old fashioned, plain and simple granddad. His grandson has to talk about him in front of his class, but all his friends have picked a member of their family who is really cool and interesting . . . there is nothing cool and interesting about Frank . . . or is there? This awesome new picture book from the creator of critically-acclaimed ‘Marshall Armstrong is new to our School’ is a fun way to teach young readers how much the older generation has to teach us, and what fun learning from them can be. It is a heart-warming story which will definitely leave you wanting to read it again and again.

(CL) The Frank Show by David Mackintosh, HarperCollins Children’s Books (hardback), £10.99

Not all girls like fluffy toys and pink things, so meet Maud, the girl who has a pet rat called Quentin and whose favourite colour is black. Not fitting in well at her old school, Maud does not feel or seem like a normal girl. However, that all changes when she transfers to Rotwood and realises, surrounded by Halloween characters, that she is rather too normal here.

This easily readable story combines spine tingling descriptions with drama and comedy to inspire its readers. ‘Big Fright’ and another adventure ‘Spooky Sports Day’ are the first two in a new series of Monstrous Maud books, a girly parallel to the Horrid Henry books and great for ages 7 plus. Maud has entered a new and unexpected world . . . what will she do next? (CL) Monstrous Maud - Big Fright by A.B. Saddlewick, Buster Books (paperback), £4.99.

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SPRING INTO SUMMER As well as the Diamond Jubilee and the impending Olympics, Kirsty Woodgate and Charlotte Le Lohé cherry pick other notable events to keep your children active.

W

ith summer approaching South West families will be eager to get out and about. Of course, the major national celebrations will go some of the way to entertaining the children, but the region’s parks and visitor attractions will play an essential role in working out those energetic limbs. As well as organising events around the Jubilee and Olympics, many of them may well have events linked to the following:

bike fixed is just one of the attractions of Bike Week events.

Other events include cycle skills training, bike-to-school days, adult beginner bike rides, parent and children rides, longer rides for more experienced cyclists, off-road biking and cycle safety checks.

Ffi: www.bikeweek.org.uk

SUN 17 JUNE FATHER’S DAY

Father’s Day is always celebrated on the third Sunday in June. For inspirational ideas on how to treat dad or to find out what Father’s Day events are taking place close to you, see our Roundabout section.

MON 18-SUN 24 JUNE CHILD SAFETY WEEK

This is the Child Accident Prevention Trust (CPAT)’s annual flagship community education campaign that supports families to take positive action on child safety. The theme for this year’s week is ‘Small Steps to Safety’ conveying a very clear message

that it only takes a few small steps to help make a child’s environment safer. Free resources, newsletters and support for activities and events are available on the Child Safety Week website.

Ffi: www.childsafetyweek.org.uk/ child-safety-week

MON 25-FRI 29 JUNE LLOYDS TSB NATIONAL SCHOOL SPORT WEEK

take part in London 2012 World Sport Day and celebrate the arrival of teams and supporters from all over the world to the UK ahead of the Games.

Ffi and to register: www. schoolsportweek.org (schools) or (parents and young people wishing to find out if their school has registered) www.lloydstsb.com/ london2012.

This is a huge school sporting event that aims to use the power and inspiration of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games to inspire young people to understand the value of sport and encourage them to take part in physical activity. Registered schools are encouraged to ‘Stage your Games’ during the week, where teachers can access notes on everything from staging Opening and Closing Ceremonies, to celebrating the multiculturalism of the Games.

On Monday 25 June, the first day of National School Sport Week, schools have the chance to

SAT 16-SUN 24 JUNE BIKE WEEK

Get back in the saddle for Bike Week, the UK’s biggest mass participation cycling event, which aims to get more people cycling more often and promises something for everyone from the seasoned cyclist to the novice.

Phillip Darnton, Executive Director of the Bicycle Association says, “More than three quarters of people in the UK own a bike, and yet only 14% ride them regularly. Often the barrier to their getting back on two wheels is something as simple as getting brakes fixed or punctures repaired. That’s all it takes for them to start cycling again.”

The opportunity to get your PRIMARY TIMES

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So check out some of the area’s leading attractions (see below) to find out what your family could do in the next few weeks.

Avon Valley Country Park www. avonvalleycountrypark.com Bowood House and Gardens www.bowood-house.co.uk Brokerswood www.brokerswood. net Westonbirt Arboretum www. forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt MAY HALF TERM 2012

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5/16/2012 2:52:00 PM

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BROUGHT TO BOOK

With libraries in the frontline of public sector cuts Dan Ryan looks at how Wiltshire’s libraries are surviving austerity.

T

he library is one of the nation’s best loved institutions. It’s a place to casually browse books you’d never think of buying, to escape from your noisy colleagues or siblings and indulge in morsels of obscure knowledge. But with council budgets stretched, many libraries are facing closure.

Councils in the South West are trying their hardest to keep theirs open and Wiltshire library services believe they’ve been successful so far, with no library closures in the Wiltshire region at the time of writing. Although budgets are feeling the squeeze, the councils claim they have been able to make the savings they need by reducing staffing and opening hours and

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12 Wilts Features May Half Term 2012.indd 8

cutting the book buying fund.

Wiltshire council had to make £0.5 million of cuts to its library fund over two years after its budget from central government was cut by 28%. Primarily these savings have had to come from cutting staff costs, and 17 redundancies had to be made last year, with a significant amount spent on self-service checkout machines. Fewer staff also means that many libraries have had to severely restrict their opening hours, on average by around 20 per cent.

Ten of the smallest libraries risked complete closure due to staff shortages. But after a sustained campaign local communities and

the council, the county has managed to recruit over 300 volunteers to keep the libraries open. While the council still manage the buildings and stock, and provide five hours of paid staff time a week, the volunteers carry out the day to day running of the libraries.

“These communities can probably run the library much more effectively than the council ever could.” said councillor John Thomson, cabinet member for libraries “The Big Society was going on in Wiltshire long before Chancellor Osborne and Prime Minister Cameron came along.”

There are differing views on the best model for library development

in these straightened times, however, and one campaigner, former Waterstones director Tim Coates, says: “There should be a focus on what makes libraries attractive to residents, not on what councils want them to be used for.

The most important thing is that people have the books they want to read, and that the library is open enough for them to get them out.”

Coates’s re-organisation of libraries in the London borough of Hillingdon focused on increasing the budget for buying new books and improved outlying community libraries. He says footfall increased by 300% while the scheme still saved money.

Although Wiltshire libraries have managed to stay pretty much intact, their future is still uncertain.

The savings that have been made already are only the first round. Our libraries might be safe for now, but they’re not out of the woods yet.

Wiltshire Libraries www.wiltshire. gov.uk/artsheritageandlibraries/ librarieshome.htm Tim Coates’ Libraries Blog www. goodlibraryguide.com/blog Words for Life www.wordsforlife. org.uk Quick Reads www.quickreads.org. uk PRIMARY TIMES

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