Avon Back to School 2016 by Primary Times

in Avon Issue 199 1 Sep-20 Oct 2016

Unlock your child’s potential with Stagecoach Performing Arts Page 4.

Also Settling into school Caring for pets Meet the illustrator

Be good at being

Yourself

Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money! 16 Avon cover Back to School 2016.indd 1

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REACH THE TOP AT KINGSWOOD! Outstanding academic results with 84% going onto Russell Group and 98% to university Rated ‘excellent’ in all areas of the 2015 Inspection Report Over 100 co-curricular activities available Reputation for sport and links with professional clubs Inspirational music, drama and creative arts Top quality boarding provision with superb pastoral care

School Bath

Join us for Open Day: SIXTH FORM - Thursday 29 September, 6.30pm to 9.00pm PREP SCHOOL - Thursday 6 October, 9.30am to 12.00 noon SENIOR SCHOOL - Saturday 8 October, 9.00am to 12.00 noon

Book a place at www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk

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As the new school year comes round again, a new intake of pupils starts its educational journey. But, far from the daunting experience of yesteryear, starting at school is now a welcoming process, designed to make children feel comfortable and happy, as we discover (P.6). It’s also exciting to see how much family entertainment is happening, both indoors and out, even with fresh autumn temperatures beginning to nip. From Bristol Doors Open (P.25) to Encounters and Do Something Different (P.27 & 28), there’s a host of new and spectacular events to enjoy once the homework’s done.

THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P13 PINBOARD P31 ADVERTISING FEATURES P38 PUPILS’ PAGE P42 CLASSIFIEDS P45 A NEW BEGINNING P6 Today’s children have a gentle introduction to their school journey, reports Ellen White.

ASTRAL WOOFS! P23 Meet Bristol illustrator Henning Löhlein.

A CHILD’S BEST FRIEND P35 the editor

Avon iin A

Issue 199 Oct 2016 1 Sep-20

Unlock d’s your chil with potential h Stagecoac Performing Arts Page 4. Also school Settling intopets Caring for ator Meet the illustr

Be good at

being

Yourself

Theatre

Choose your family pet carefully .

PRIMARY TIMES IS NOW AVAILABLE AS AN APP https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/primary-times/id674066003?mt=8

ey! ut • Save mon y • Roundabo • Arty Bart

Primary Times in Avon

Bristol News and Media, 1 Temple Way, Bristol, BS2 OBY. More information at www.primarytimes.net

Editor Commercial director Advertising Distribution Design Production Proof reader Main office

Mike Gartside mike.gartside@localworld.co.uk Tracie Simms tracie.simms@localworld.co.uk 0117 934 3165 Caroline Stretton caroline.stretton@localworld.co.uk 0117 934 3737 Karen Giarratana Karen.giarratana@localworld.co.uk 01179 343 429 Juliet Hobbs juliet.hobbs@localworld.co.uk 01242 278053 Cath Evans, Mike Gartside Emma Gorton, Ruth Wood Ellen White 0117 934 3000

Find these amazing offers this issue!

The Maths Factor - First month half price Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm £2 off admission Perform – Try a free drama class Swimstart – 10% off bookings The Park Centre – Free bouncy castle hire Perform

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 biased 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 Trinity Mirror Ltd nor its contributors are liable for the consequences of any errors. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in the counties 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 Trinity Mirror Ltd. Primary Times currently publishes more than two million copies per issue under franchise.

PRIMARY TIMES

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STAGE COACH LO S Bristol CHOOLS CAL C entral Sodbu & Keyns ry T: 0800 Chipping ham T 97 Bath T : 0117 900 2456 : Portish 01249 65 2 8925 59 ead T: 0117 & Long Ash00 to 953 2 500 n

Be good at being

Yourself E

va Johnson, 12, and her brother Sam, 10, are now Stagecoach regulars after initially attending a two week trial a couple of years ago. Their mum, Katie, says, “My children absolutely love it. They came home after the first day and were full of chatter about the friends they’d made and the fun they’d had. “They learn so much more than singing, dancing and drama,” she adds. “My son is naturally quite shy and I’ve seen his confidence levels soar, whereas my daughter is outgoing and has been able to channel her energy into performing.” Performance at Stagecoach is about more than simply learning how to sing, dance and act. Students develop the creative courage to unlock their potential, to stand up and be heard, to work well with other students and to embrace new ideas and possibilities. Stagecoach provides a thriving, nurturing, supportive and inspirational environment for learning, making a difference

to their student’s lives. The company’s managing director Sarah Kelly says, “At Stagecoach we teach our students so much more than how to sing, dance and act. We help them blossom into well-rounded individuals, ready to embrace life and all its opportunities. We delight in seeing our students have fun, make friends, learn new skills and discover hidden talents. We encourage them to take ‘safe risks’ through rehearsals and performance, which brings out a willingness to take on challenges.” If you are looking for new ways to keep your children active, happy and engaged then the solution may come in the form of performing arts classes at Stagecoach Performing Arts. Stagecoach offers classes in singing, dancing and acting across various locations in Bristol and Bath, starting with a two week trial during the school autumn term for youngsters aged four to 18. “It’s so important for today’s children to be resilient, brave and self-assured. Nothing is

PERFORMING STAGES

tagecoach offers performing arts classes for Early Stages (children aged 4 to 6 years) and Main Stages classes (7 to 18 years). For Early Stages, the 90-minute classes are split into three sections: 30 minutes for singing, where new songs and rhythms are learnt, 30 minutes for dancing where twirling and jumping around gives a great outlet for their energy and 30 minutes for acting through role play, improvisation and storytelling, whilst boosting confidence through friendship and teamwork. In the Main Stages classes, children from 7 to 18 are split by age into small age-appropriate groups. The weekly classes teach students a variety of styles and routines, enabling them to explore their imagination, express themselves and encourage their creativity. Main Stages classes last for three hours: one hour for singing, one hour for dancing and one hour for acting.

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Unlock your child’s potential with Stagecoach Performing Arts more rewarding than seeing a child’s confidence develop,” says Stagecoach Bath Principal Sandra Mayo. “We provide a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where children’s confidence can grow, where they can enjoy being themselves and not be afraid to try new and exciting things.” The first classes began in 1988, and, since then Stagecoach is proud to have helped over one million children unlock their potential. Heidi Hollis, principal of Portishead and Long Ashton schools, says, “My Stagecoach journey began as a teacher of our 4 and 5 year olds. Watching each individual grow and develop is immensely satisfying. As they get older they hone their new skills and work together to devise and rehearse performances. Students become more self-assured, expressive, sociable and imaginative.” Classes are small which means every child is given attention and allowed to realise their potential at their own pace. The teachers all have performing arts experience and are there to lead and support youngsters as they conquer fears and rise to new challenges, with classes giving children both structure and freedom as well as making friends with like-minded youngsters. Bristol Central Stagecoach Principal Matt Broad comments, “I feel I’m really adding something special to the life of these children. The skills that they develop here at Stagecoach will serve them well on the stage of life and help them to tackle new situations with resilience, creativity and courage.” Stagecoach, of course, has a clear commitment to child

protection and safe guarding our students is of the highest priority. All principals, teachers and assistants are required to apply for Enhanced clearance via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS, formerly CRB). And, as the principal of the school does not teach, they are able to monitor and oversee the classes, giving individual care where a child needs that extra piece of nurturing. Classes run during school term time with several locations available locally: Central Bristol, Chipping Sodbury, Keynsham, Bath (Oldfield Park), Portishead, and Long Ashton. Students from the local schools have performed in a variety of venues, including Her Majesty’s Theatre in London, Princess Theatre in Torquay, and Cheltenham Town Hall, as well as more local events such as the Portishead Carnival and the Keynsham Music Festival. Principal of Keynsham branch Olivia Kennard reports, “Our talented students absolutely love getting out into the community and performing live!” Students also get plenty of opportunity to showcase their new skills at the end of term in demonstrations and inhouse performances. Confident children find their energies focussed and directed creatively, while more shy children are given support and a safe environment to find their voice and build their confidence. Stagecoach develops children’s creative courage so that they perform well on stage and in life.

To find out more about the two week trial, call your local branch principal or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk. PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 08:53:07

A Room Full of Stories! come and discover the New Room in Bristol

Redmaids’ High School incorporating Redland High School for Girls

Open Mornings Saturday 24 September Juniors, Seniors and Sixth Form Saturday 8 October - Infants

Find out about John Wesley,

Book on-line at: redmaidshigh.co.uk tel: 0117 962 2641

the anti-slavery campaigner who founded a movement and caused a riot! School tours, workshops, activity guides and holiday events for all ages.

Contact us to find out more: The New Room, 36 The Horsefair, Bristol BS1 3JE www.newroombristol.org.uk/Group-Visits email:education@newroombristol.org.uk ©LW

New Performing Arts Centre Autumn 2017

12-acre green site with all key facilities

Bristol’s only IB school

Independent day school | Girls and boys aged 3 to 7 Girls aged 7 to 18

PRIMARY TIMES

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Ellen White discovers that new arrivals in Reception and Year 1 will be made to feel welcome and comfortable as they embark on this new stage in their life.

A new I

t seems like only yesterday that your child was learning to crawl. Now, suddenly, the time has come for them to venture out on their own and begin the journey of formal education. Starting school is one of the first major changes in a young child’s life, and, while exciting, it can be daunting too. In his famous ‘Seven stages of man’ soliloquy, Shakespeare paints a gloomy picture of pupil enthusiasm as “the whining school-boy . . . creeping like snail unwillingly to school”. And, while those words might have been true even into the modern era, the learning environment has changed enormously in recent decades as the educational

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beginning

establishment has understood that happy pupils make for good students. A 2013 research report by the Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY), found that 97% of childcare professionals define children who are ‘school ready’ as those with strong social skills, able to cope emotionally with parental separation, relatively independent in their own personal care and have a curiosity about the world and desire to learn. The same report found that these attributes were considered more important than cognitive and academic skills such as reading and writing. Most schools settle new children into Reception gradually, offering short days or mornings to start. “Our reception children don’t come in at all for the first week of the new term,” explains Jenni Haycock, teacher at Ilminster Avenue E-Act Academy, Bristol. “Instead, reception teachers do home visits to find out more about the child and their family, and where they are, developmentwise. For the next two weeks, half

the children attend mornings only and the other half the afternoons only, so they don’t get too overwhelmed.” Extra support can also be available if your child is young for their year: children with summer birthdays may find it hard to keep up with the start of term in September. Many local authorities now offer Reception places after a child’s fourth birthday, with the option to request a later start in the school year once a place has been accepted. Your local government website has the information you need to apply for a place and how to defer if you wish. The start of school can be a big step for parents, too, so remember it’s completely natural to feel nervous. As Ben Craib, father of Theo, 4, says, “He can’t wait to go to school and craves friendship with other children. The anxiety is probably more from us parents than him.” As primary school teacher Tate Mutero points out, “The best advice for parents is to communicate with their children, let them

know it’s all right to be anxious but everything will be OK. It’s important, when they drop their children off, that they say their goodbyes and reassure them they will be back to collect them at the end of the day. Some parents think sneaking off is better for everyone, but from what I’ve seen it can make children more upset.” If it seems your child is not settling straight away, don’t worry. Schools are well prepared to make the transition as smooth as they can. “At our school, the teachers very much follow the children’s choices,” says Jenni. “There is always a lot of prep to sculpt the days around the children. We also adapt the classrooms and outdoor areas to suit the new class and make sure they are as comfortable as possible.” So, parents, if you’re worried, remember that starting school is often tougher on you than on your kids and that primary schools in the region will be doing their utmost to ensure they have a smooth, happy transition to their new learning life. “Creeping like snail”? “What light through yonder window breaks?” might be more appropriate! PACEY W: www.pacey.org.uk. Bristol City Council W: www.bristol.gov.uk. Bath and North East Somerset Council W: www.bathnes.gov.uk Family Lives W: www.familylives.org.uk. BOOKS I am Too Absolutely Small for School by Lauren Child, £6.99, Orchard Books. Starting School by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, £6.99, Puffin. Harry and the Dinosaurs go to School by Ian Whybrow and Adrian Reynolds, £5.99, Puffin. PRIMARY TIMES

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FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS ★ BRISTOL, BATH, N. SOMERSET & SOUTH GLOS Mavis Sparkle, The Egg, Bath, Fri 14-Sun 16 Oct. Pic. Lewis Wileman

BATH THE EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www. theatreroyal.org.uk We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Wed 21-Sun 25 Sep, 10am (all days), 1pm (Wed-Fri), 12 noon & 3pm (Sat & Sun), £8.50 (adults)/£7.50 (children) • Michael Rosen’s classic brought to life by Little Angel Theatre. Sponge Sat 1-Sun 2 Oct, 11.30am and 3pm, £8.50(adults)/£7.50(child) • Celebration of all things spongy, from a piece of cake to the texture itself with plenty of props to squash and squeeze. Suitable for 6 months to 3 years. The Tale of Peter Rabbit Mon 3 Oct, 10am and 11.15am, all tickets £3 • Join Jackie and Pooja from Dinkies storytime as they share Beatrix Potter’s popular tale. Part of Bath Children’s Literature Festival. Ella Bella Ballerina and A Midsummer Night’s Dream Tue 4 Oct, 10am and 11.15am, £3 • Jackie and Pooja bring this spin on Shakespeare’s tale to life with Dinkies storytime. Part of Bath Children’s Literature Festival. The Boy Who Climbed Into The Moon Fri 7-Sun 9 Oct, 1pm(Fri)/11.30am and 3pm(Sat and Sun), £8.50 (adults)/£7.50 (child) • Adapted from the book by David Almond, follow Paul on his quest to climb into the moon. After all, it’s just a big hole in the sky… isn’t it? Mavis Sparkle Fri 14-Sun 16 Oct, 10am and 1pm (Fri)/11.30am and 3pm (Sat and Sun), £8.50 (adults)/£7.50 (child) • With a magician for a dad and stargazer for a mum, there’s more to Mavis than meets the eye. Follow her as she journeys to see nature’s biggest light show for herself. Macbeth: Blood will have Blood Mon 17-Tue 28 Oct, 1.30pm (Mon)/1pm and 7.30pm (Tue), £8.50 (adults)/£7.50 (child) • Accessible introduction to Shakepeare’s tale of ambition, greed and power. Suitable for ages 9-13.

BRISTOL ARNOLFINI 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA, 0117 917 2300, www.arnolfini.org. uk. The Unknown Adventure Bureau Tue 4 Oct, 10.30-11.30am, free • Storytellers Katie Storer 8 BACK TO SCHOOL 2016

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and Simon Panrucker present a totally improvised story complete with an improvised soundtrack. The audience decide what elements go into its bursting melting pot, but who knows what will come out? BRISTOL HIPPODROME St. Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www.atgtickets.com/Bristol The Sound of Music Tue 30 AugSat 3 Sep, 7.30pm, plus 2.30pm Wed, Thu and Sat, £20.40£46.40 • Based on Baroness Maria von Trapp’s 1949 autobiography, this new production of the tale popularised by Hollywood in the 1960s tells the story of the world-famous singing family. From their romantic beginnings as they search for happiness, they make a thrilling escape as their homeland, Austria, is taken over by Hitler’s Third Reich in the 1930s. Songs include ‘Favourite Things’ and ‘Do-Re-Me’. Peppa Pig’s Surprise Wed 7-Thu 8 Sep, 1pm/4pm (Wed), 10am/1pm (Thu), £17.15-£23.15 • The Pig family and friends are back with a brand new stage show in which Mummy and Daddy Pig have a surprise for Peppa and George. Can you guess what it is? Lots of songs and surprises. THE BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org. uk Peter Pan Wed 16 Nov–Mon 29 Dec, 7pm, 1pm & 2pm, £15-£60 • In JM Barrie’s much-loved tale Peter Pan, leader of the Lost Boys, loses his shadow during a visit to London. Headstrong Wendy (Madeleine Worrall, Jane Eyre) helps him re-attach it. In return she is invited to Neverland - where Tinker Bell the fairy, Tiger Lily and the vengeful Captain Hook, played by Sophie Thompson (Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows,

Four Weddings and a Funeral) await. Director Sally Cookson promises a wondrously inventive version of the tale. ST. GEORGE’S BRISTOL Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR. 0117 925 3333, www. stgeorgesbristol.co.uk Wild Words: Glorious Greeks Tue 25 Oct, 3.30pm, all tickets £6 • Modern take on the classic tale of Odysseus. Outwit greedy monsters, escape the savage Cyclops, survive the sweet-singing siren sisters and overcome vengeful gods to save the day with the cleverest Greek hero of all time. Followed by a 4.30pm Playshop, free for ticket holders. MiniBeats: Petrifying Pianos Sun 30 Oct, 10.15am (ages 3-5), 12pm (ages 5-8) and 2pm (relaxed performance), all tickets £6 • Halloween fun, featuring Monstrous Mussorgsky, Spine-Chilling Saint Saëns and Ghastly Grieg! Dressing up is definitely allowed and there are prizes for the best costumes. PILNING VILLAGE HALL Pilning, South Gloucestershire 01454 633786/632813. Villageplayerspilning@gmail.com Camelot, the Panto Wed 7-Sat 10 Dec, 7.30pm (weekdays), 1.30pm & 6pm (Saturday) £6/£4 • Amateur production of the King Arthur-related yarn by The Village Players in association with Ben Crocker Pantomimes. THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE High Street, Weston-superMare, Somerset BS23 1HP. 01934 645544, www.parkwoodtheatres. co.uk Ministry of Science Live Thu 6 Oct, 11am and 7pm, £14 (adult)/£12.50 (child) • Learn about science the unconventional way with whooshes, bangs, a human cannon and a hovercraft built on stage.

Gangsta Granny Wed 19-Sat 22 Oct, see website for times, £18(adult)/£15.50(child) • The producers behind Horrible Histories adapt David Walliams’ best-selling book. Follow Ben on the adventure of a lifetime with Granny, who has a few secrets up her sleeve. REDCATCH PARK Knowle, Bristol, BS4, www.bravebold-drama.co.uk, www.elknowle. wixsite.com. My Way or the Highway Sat 11 Sep, 2 and 4pm, free • Awardwinning family theatre from Bristol based Brave Bold Drama. Highwayman Alf is used to taking whatever toys he wants, can he learn to share and find better ways to play? REDGRAVE THEATRE Percival Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3LE. 0117 315 7000. www.redgravetheatre.com The Redgrave has no permanent box office so please book directly with the visiting companies listed below. Nieveland Sun 18 Sep, 2 and 4pm, all tickets £10. Book via Redgrave’s website • Grupo Mamarracho theatre add to the saga beginning with Hans Christian Anderson’s ‘The Snow Queen’ and continued by Disney’s ‘Frozen’. Follow the adventures of Queen Elsa, her daughters and the Wizard (acclaimed magician Nutty Noah). Please note this production is entirely in Spanish. TOBACCO FACTORY THEATRE Raleigh Road, Bristol BS3 1TF. 0117 902 0060, www.tobaccofactory. com Take it On: Delve into Dahl Mon 12 Sep, 4.30-6pm, £6 per child • Learn specialist skills and practice theatre techniques around the theme of works by Roald Dahl. Suitable for ages 10 to 13. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Wed 14-Sat 17 Sep, 8pm/2.30pm (Sat only), £12 (adult)/£8 (child) • Physical comedy theatre company Le Navet Bete present their own spin on the tale of Dorothy and friends. Expect ridiculous characters, live music and song, silly dances and more. TYNTESFIELD Tyntesfield, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1NX, 01275 461900, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield. Peter Pan Sat 3 Sep, 7.30pm, £16 (adult)/£8 (child) • Chapterhouse Theatre Company tell JM Barrie’s tale of Neverland and the boy who refused to grow up. THE WARDROBE THEATRE The Old Market Assembly, 25 West

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

Street, Old Market, Bristol BS2 0DF. www.thewardrobetheatre. com Eloise and the Curse of the Golden Whisk Tue 6-Sat 17 Sep, 7pm/2pm (Sun 11 and Sat 17 only), all tickets £8 • It’s 1944 and, in the bombed ruins of a restaurant, Eloise finds a beautiful, golden whisk. Little does she know the object is cursed, to free herself she must cook the tastiest dish in the world. A swashbuckling, culinary adventure of hope and magic. The Mysterious Vanishment of Pobby and Dingan Sat 24 Sep, 3pm and 7.30pm, all tickets £7 • Travelling Light theatre presents their version of Ben Rice’s acclaimed debut novel. Kellyanne’s imaginary friends have gone missing, and it’s up to brother Ashmol to find them before she fades away herself. VICTORIA HALL Church St, Radstock, BA3 3QG, www.brave-bold-drama.co.uk. Peter Pan Sun 2 Oct, 4pm, all tickets £5 • Brave Bold Drama present their own retelling of J M Barrie’s tale. Performed with only two actors, original live music and lots of audience participation.

FURTHER AFIELD THE ARC THEATRE College Road, Trowbridge BA14 0ES. 01225 756376, www.arctheatre.org.uk Dotty the Dragon Sun 25 Sep, 11am and 2pm, £8/£6/£25 (family) • Dotty is a baby fire dragon who lives in a dusty old castle. She loves to watch the children playing in the village below, but wishes she could join them. One day she has a brilliant idea and flies to the village to say hello. Will Dotty make new friends, or will the fearful village folk chase her back home to her castle? Brought to life by acclaimed Blunderbus Theatre, this big-hearted adventure is told with magical songs, enchanting music and puppetry. BACON THEATRE Dean Close School, Shelbourne Road, Cheltenham GL51 6HE. 01242 258002, www.bacontheatre.co.uk The King and I Thu 15-Sun 18 Sep, 7.30pm/2.30pm (Sat and Sun), £12-£16 • Enter the luxurious court of the King of Siam as award-winning Promenade Productions promise a colourful musical, including songs ‘Getting to Know You’ and ‘Shall We Dance?’. The Message is in the Music Sat 24 Sep, 5.30-11pm, £22-£25 • Family-friendly comedian Tony Vino comperes an evening of music, laughter and entertainment including performances from gospel singer Philippa Hanna, The King Solomon Band and Valerie Maxfield. Charity event for local projects. 10 BACK TO SCHOOL 2016

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The Sound of Music, The Hippodrom, Bristol, Tue 30 Aug-Sat 3 Sep

telling amongst the trees as the audience follows Betany on her journey from girl to woman. STRATTON MEADOWS Gloucester Rd, Stratton, Cirencester, GL7 2JX, www.giffordscircus.com. Gifford’s Circus Thu 8-Mon 19 Sep, see website for times, £10£29 • Fabulously spectacular Wild West-themed circus high jinks.

Vienna Festival Ballet: Snow White Sun 9 Oct, 5pm, £19 (adult)/£14 (child) • Barry McGrath choreographs an energetic dance version of the Brothers Grimm classic tale. Expect the usual beautiful princess, enchanted mirror and poisoned apple, plus some hip-hopping dwarves. Once Upon A Time Fri 28-Sat 29 Oct, 2pm and 6pm, £9 (adult)/£7 (child) • Girlguiding Gloucestershire presents a journey through pantomime with a talent show twist as they search for a competition winner with help from Bob the Cow. Performed by members of Brownies, Rainbows, Guides, Seniors and Group Leaders. EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk Finders Keepers Wed 5 Oct, 2 and 6pm, all tickets £9.50 • Two quirky characters living on a scrapyard have their lives turned upside down in this fun-filled, highly visual family show inspired by the story of Moses. Using music, puppetry and comic happenings with no dialogue, accessible to both deaf and hearing audiences. THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7HG. 01242 522852, www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk Musical Magic 2 Wed 28 Sep-Sat 1 Oct, 7.45pm/2.30pm (Sat only), £12 (adult)/£10 (child) • Expect popular show tunes from well known musicals including ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ and ‘The Sound of Music’. SALISBURY ARTS CENTRE Bedwin Street, Salisbury, SP1 3UT. 01722 321744. www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk Watch This Space Sat 17 Sep, 12-4pm, free ticket (must be booked in advance) • Open showcase including theatre inside a giant inflatable pig, sketching with the Lostwood fairies, music, theatre and dance performances. The Magic Paintbrush Tue 25 Oct, 11am/2pm (relaxed performance), £7.50 (adult)/£6.50 (child) • Once upon a time in a grey, colourless world, someone is scribbling. Follow this brave young heroine as she leaps, splatters, swirls, boogies and paints her world into a brighter place.

SALISBURY PLAYHOUSE Malthouse Lane, Salisbury SP2 7RA. 01722 320333, www.salisburyplayhouse.com Clare Balding’s Family Morning Sat 24 Sep, 11am, £9 • Join the author and broadcaster for a morning of inspirational stories and family entertainment to celebrate the publication of her first children’s book, ‘The Racehorse who wouldn’t Gallop’. Suitable for ages 7+. Shh…Bang! Mon 24 Oct, 11am and 2pm, £9 • Dance-theatre performance exploring sound and silence. Two characters set out on a journey through a world filled with boings, whooshes, tick-tocks and cacophony. Their journey is punctuated by silence and as they are wrapped up in stillness, they learn to listen. Zombie-rella/Blood Red Hood Tue 25 Oct, 11am and 2pm, £9 • Performance poet Joseph Coelho unravels familiar fairytales to create fresh contemporary classics. Join a mysterious storyteller with a magical top-hat and coat and discover the true stories behind the happilyever-afters as Cinderella falls in love with a zombie prince and Little Red Riding Hood isn’t as innocent as she seems. Suitable for ages 6+. Grannylocks and The Monstrous Duckling Wed 26 Oct, 11am and 2pm, £9 • More twisted tales from performance poet Joseph Coelho. Discover the ‘truly monstrous’ ugly duckling and the mean old granny behind the tale of Goldilocks. The Owl and the Pussycat’s Treasury of Nonsense Sat 29 Oct, 11am and 2pm, £9 • Soap Soup Theatre presents a fun twist on Edward Lear’s nonsense poetry including clowning, puppetry, magic and music. The Owl is trying to write his greatest masterpiece yet, but the Pussycat has different ideas. Creating magical worlds among the things in their den, and turning everyday objects into new friends for their nonsense stories, can they really work together to tell the most important tale of all? STOURHEAD Stourton, Witlshire, BA12 6QF, 01747 841152, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/stourhead. Whispering Woodfolk: Red Threads Sun 16 Oct, 2.30-4.30pm, £12 (adult)/£6 (child) • An immersive experience combining aerial acrobatics, live music and story-

SWINDON ARTS CENTRE Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BJ. 01793 614837, www.swindontheatres.co.uk Family Fairy Tales Sat 22 Oct, 11.30am, free • Bring a teddy and settle down to enjoy three classic tales: Goldilocks, Cinderella and The Three Little Pigs. TROWBRIDGE ARTS Trowbridge Town Hall, Market Street, Trowbridge BA14 8EQ. 01225 774306, www.trowbridgearts.com Revolting Rhymes Live Sun 16 Oct, 2pm and 3pm, £9 (adult&child pair)/£4 (additional adult or child) • Roald Dahl’s wickedly entertaining spin on classic tales including Little Red Hiding Hood, the Three Little Pigs and the Crocodile from ‘Dirty Beasts’. Join musicians, actors and puppets for this stage adaptation, plus a workshop beforehand to make your own mask to wear during the show. Dracula: A Terrifying Comedy Fri 4 Nov, 7.30pm, £10 (adult)/£8 (conc) • The Last Baguettes adapt Bram Stoker’s gothic tale with plenty of comedy, 21 characters, four actors and two sharp fangs. Suitable for adults and courageous children. The Boy Who Bit Picasso Sat 5 Nov, 3pm, all tickets £8 • Meet Tony and his friend, Pablo Picasso, down on the farm and discover the true story of how a young boy became friends with one of the greatest artists who ever lived. This is a ‘messy’ theatre show with lots of interactive fun, so wear old clothes! THE WYVERN THEATRE Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. 01793 524481, www.swindontheatres.co.uk Gangsta Granny Tue 27 SepSat 1 Oct, see website for times, £14-£20 • It’s Friday night and Ben knows that means only one thing – staying with Granny! There will be cabbage soup, cabbage pie and cabbage cake and Ben knows it’s going to be boring. But what Ben doesn’t know is that Granny has a secret and Friday nights are about to get more exciting than he could ever imagine. From the acclaimed producers of ‘Horrible Histories’ comes the premiere of David Walliams’ best-selling children’s book. Stick Man Sun 2 Oct, 1.30 and 3.30pm, £15.50 (adult)/£14.50 (child) • Scamp Theatre adapt Julia ‘The Gruffalo’ Donaldson’s charming tale of the Stick Man and his family. Featuring puppetry, songs, live music and dancing, perfect for ages 3+. PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 09:16:07

OPEN DAY Join us at our Junior and Senior School Open Morning to find out for yourself what Badminton School has to offer girls aged 3-18.

NEW!

Saturday 8th October

Sixth Form Open Evening

Call for more information and to book your place.

Friday 30th September

e: admissions@badmintonschool.co.uk

t: 0117 905 5271

w: badmintonschool.co.uk

Can

ld i h c r u o y

swi m? CALL NOW AND ASK FOR MORE DETAILS!

ALL AGES AND ABILITIES WELCOME! Award winning lessons Bristol South Swimming Pool

0117 353 2555

Easton Leisure Centre

Horfield Leisure Centre

everyoneactive.com 7328_July Campaign_1/2pg 133hx193w_Bristol.indd 1 PRIMARY TIMES

No waiting list

Henbury Leisure Centre

0117 903 1618 0117 955 8840

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ASA qualified teachers

0117 903 1643 everyoneactive

Everyone Active manages these facilities in partnership with Bristol City Council.

@everyoneactive 12/08/2016 09:09 BACK TO SCHOOL 2016 11

23/08/2016 10:16:24

St Bernadette Catholic Secondary School Growing and Learning in Faith

TORWOOD

Open Day/Evenings Wednesday 21st September

HOUSE SCHOOL

5.00pm - 8.30pm

Established 1915

Head’s Talk 5.00pm - Tours of School 5.30pm Head’s Talk 6.45pm - Tours of School 7.15pm Thursday 6th October Wednesday 12th October

9.15am - 10.45am 9.15am - 10.45am

• Academic Success • High Expectations • Inclusive Ethos • Good Behaviour • Traditional Values • Strong Pastoral Care A Successful Learning Community We serve families across South & East Bristol and welcome all those seeking a quality education within a caring Christian environment.

“An Outstanding Catholic School”

Tel: 0117 377 2050

www.stberns.bristol.sch.uk

A small school with BIG ambitions ...

©LW

Mangotsfield School Open Evening

OPEN DAY 9.30 - 12.00 Friday 14th October 2016 We are an independent school for children aged 4 - 11 years in Redland. Contact us to arrange a personal tour.

Open mornings daily from Wednesday 14th September by appointment

Rodway Hill, Mangotsfield, BS16 9LH 01454 862700 mangotsfieldschool.org.uk

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C: 0117 973 6620 E: hello@torwoodhouseschool.co.uk W: www.torwoodhouseschool.co.uk PRIMARY TIMES

18/08/2016 12:24:44

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 late October, November and December: deadline Mon 12 Sep. If your event is to raise funds for a school, a charity or your community, and is open to the public, we are keen to list it here. Please send all your events information and news/feature ideas to the editor at: mike.gartside@localworld.co.uk

UNTIL SUN 4 SEP GROMIT UNLEASHED The Grand Appeal Shop, The Mall, Cribbs Causeway, Patchway, Bristol, BS34 5DG, 0117 903 0303, www.mallcribbs.com, See website for opening times, free (suggested donation £2) • Eighteen of the original sculptures from 2013’s popular trail go back on display, including Gromberry, Gromit Lightyear and Sir Gromit of Bristol.

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!

UNTIL MON 5 SEP SUMMER STARGAZING 3D At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0117 9151000, www.at-bristol.org.uk, term-time Mon-Fri 2.45pm & 4.15pm/weekends, holidays & bank holidays 12.30pm, 2.45pm, 4.15pm & 5pm, £3 plus standard admission • Discover the astronomy we can see from our back gardens in 3D. Expect close-up views of the night sky, fly past Saturn’s rings and witness a meteor shower. Suitable for ages 6+.

SEPTEMBER UNTIL SAT 3 SEP SODBURY SUMMER SEARCH Chipping Sodbury, Bristol, BS17. www.chippingsodburytic.co.uk, free • Pick up a trail map from one of the local libraries, the tourist information centre or under the clock tower and identify the names of 30 animals hiding in shop windows around the town. Children who hand in completed maps will be entered into a draw to win one of the animals. UNTIL SAT 3 SEP ELEPHANT TRAIL Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Rd, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG, 01275 852606, www.noahsarkzoofarm. co.uk, 10.30am-5pm, standard admission applies (£2 off when you download an Elephant Trail map from the website) • Ten colourful elephant models have been hidden around the zoo. Spot them all before visiting real life elephants Janu and M’Changa.

UNTIL THU 8 SEP SUMMER IN THE KITCHEN At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0117 915 1000, www.at-bristol.org.uk, drop-in sessions throughout the day, included in standard admission prices • Munch your way through crickets and corn tortillas in the kitchen and explore future foods and resourceful crops. Part of ‘The Crunch’, a year of activities, experiences and discussions about our food, our health and our planet (created by Wellcome Trust). UNTIL THU 8 SEP SUMMER IN THE GREENHOUSE At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0117 915 1000, www.at-bristol.org.uk, drop-in sessions throughout the day, included in standard admission prices • Unearth the secrets of soil in the greenhouse this summer. Part of ‘The Crunch’ year of activities (see listing above). UNTIL SUN 11 SEP MEET THE ROBOTS At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0117 915 1000, www.at-bristol.org.uk, drop-in sessions throughout the day, included in standard admission prices • Meet Baxter, the larger-than-life robot you can interact with, plus get under the bonnet of cuttingedge robotics research in the new Tinkering Space, part of ‘Robot Encounters’ at the science centre this summer.

Remember this fellow? Gromit is Unleashed (again) at Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, until Sun 4 Sep

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UNTIL WED 21 SEP SUPERHUMAN LAB At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, BristolBS1 5DB. 0117 915 1000, www.at-bristol.org.uk,

Everything’s gone green on the Colour Fun Run, at Oldbury Court Estate, Bristol, Sun 2 Oct.

Drop-in sessions throughout the day, included in standard admission prices • See robots in a new light and investigate the similarities and differences between them and us. Part of ‘Robot Encounters’ across At-Bristol this summer. UNTIL SUN 25 SEP THE STORY OF CHILDREN’S TELEVISION: 1946-TODAY M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/mshed, 10am-5pm, adult £5/under-16 free • Exhibition tracing the history of children’s TV from ‘Muffin the Mule’ to the multi-channel world of today. Seven decades of iconic objects, memorabilia, merchandise, clips and images plus interactive games and activities, a theme tune challenge, puppet play and TV character dress-up. Look out for the Clangers hidden around the museum! UNTIL FRI 30 SEP FRANKENSTEIN IN BATH Starts at Rebecca’s Fountain by the side of Bath Abbey, Bath, BA1 1LT, 0117 902 0235, www.showofstrength.org.uk, 7.30pm, all tickets £8 (purchase on the day) • Show of Strength Theatre Company brings a series of nightly theatrical walks to the streets of Bath to celebrate 200 years of Mary Shelley’s iconic Frankenstein. The nightly walk is led by professional actors, who tell stories of the writer’s turbulent time in the city, retracing her footsteps and exploring the extraordinary and unmarked locations where she wrote the story, including her mystery address that no longer exists. UNTIL SUN 20 NOV THE LUMINOUS ROBOT CIRCUS At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 915 1000, www. at-bristol.org.uk, regular shows during weekends & school holidays, included in standard admission

prices • Roll up and take part in the robot circus! Meet a cast of almost inconceivable luminous robot performers who each tell a story of how we might live alongside robots in the future. Part of ‘Robot Encounters’ throughout the science centre this summer. FROM 1 SEP AUTUMN GARDEN TOUR Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dyrham-park, 12 noon-1pm, included in standard admission prices • Enjoy the autumn colours on display in the West garden on a guided tour. THU 1 SEP CRAFT SESSION The Mall, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, BS34 5DG, 0117 903 0303, www. mallcribbs.com, 10am-2pm, free • Pirates and the sea-themed arts and crafts with Kidz Play. Suitable for all ages with adult supervision. THU 1 SEP ROALD DAHL ON FILM: THE BFG The Watershed, 1 Canon’s Rd, Bristol, BS1 5TX, 0117 927 5100, www.watershed.co.uk, Times TBA, £9/£6.50 (adults)/£4.50 (child) • Big-screen adaptation of the adventures of orphan Sophie and the Big Friendly Giant. Plus a Roald Dahl themed book den in the café all day, including comfy seats, copies of his books and activities. FRI 2 SEP PIRATE FUN The Mall, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, BS34 5DG, 0117 903 0303, www. mallcribbs.com, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm, free • Pirate history fun with Pirate Pete. Suitable for ages 5+. FRI 2-SUN 4 SEP VALLEY FEST Denny Lane, Chew Magna, North East Somerset, BS40 8SZ, www. valleyfest.co.uk, Gates open 2pm Fri BACK TO SCHOOL 2016

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2-12 noon Mon 5, adult weekend £82, child £42, under 6s free • Held on a working farm, the UK’s all-organic festival returns with three days of all round entertainment including live music, top-notch locally-sourced food, and the Run Wild kids zone.

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

Valley Fest, Chew Magna, Fri 2-Sun 4 Sep

SAT 3 SEP DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL Bristol Docks, Baltic Wharf, Bristol, BS1 6XG, 07539 926809, www. julianhouse.org.uk, 10.30am-5pm, free • Chinese-style Dragon boats take it in turns to race over a 250m course in aid of St.Julian’s House. Enjoy the spectacle alongside Asian inspired street food, face painting, raffles and martial arts displays. SAT 3 SEP BRISTOL MINI MAKER FAIRE At Bristol (Second Floor), Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 915 1000, www.bristolmakerfaire.com, 10am-5pm, £3 per person • Family-friendly showcase of invention, creativity and resourcefulness, plus a celebration of the Maker Movement. SAT 3 SEP HARVEST FESTIVAL FEED, Frenchay Park Rd, Bristol, BS16 1HB, 0117 917 7270, www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/feedbristol, 12 noon-5pm, free • Celebrate the bounty of summer at Bristol’s community food growing project, with live music, stalls, crafts, kids’ activities and Feed’s home-grown cider. SUN 4 SEP THE GREAT AARTY PARTY M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/mshed, 11am-3pm, pay what you think • Celebration of Bristol’s Aardman studios on their 40th birthday. Make your own Morph plus many more activities for all ages. SAT 4 SEP BEE AND POLLINATION FESTIVAL Bristol University Botanic Gardens, Stoke Park Rd, Bristol, BS9 1JG, 0117 909 9667, www.bristol.ac.uk/ botanic-garden, 2pm, £4.50 • Live hive demonstrations, talks, free garden tours and family activities, plus bee-friendly plants on sale. SAT 4 SEP YHA DAY YHA Bristol, Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA, 0845 371 9726, www. yha.org.uk, 11am-5pm, free • Pop-up shop plus live music and entertainment to raise money for YHA’s bursary fund Breaks for Kids, which funds activities and visits for young people from disadvantaged families. TUE 6 SEP TODDLER TRAILS Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/dyrham-park, 10.45am-11.30am, free with standard admission prices • Garden trails designed for little ones; learn about shape, colour and numbers while exploring nature. 14

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WED 7 SEP BAT WALK Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/dyrham-park, 7-9pm, £5(adult)/£3(child) • Explore the gardens in search of the furry nocturnal creatures. Bat detectors provided, booking essential. FROM FRI 9 SEP AUTUMN IN THE KITCHEN At Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 915 1000, www.at-bristol.org.uk, 10am-5pm, included in standard admission prices • It’s harvest time in the kitchen and the chance to taste the benefits of the summer growing season. Learn all about the important growing nutrient nitrogen and plant your own ‘green manure’ to take home. FRI 9 SEP WAPLEY BUSHES BAT WALK Shire Way entrance, opposite Cherington Rd, Shire Way, South Yate, BS37 8AY, 01454 310328, www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk, 7.30pm-9.15pm, free • Twilight stroll in search of the local nocturnal creatures. Bat detectors provided, wear warm clothes and take a torch. FRI 9 SEP BABY ART HOUR Spike Island, 133 Cumberland Rd, Bristol, BS1 6UX, 0117 929 2266, www.spikeisland.org.uk, 10am11am, £3 per first child/£1 for each additional child • Art session especially for under 5s and their carers. Play with colour, shape and texture with artist Éilis Kirby. FRI 9-SUN 18 SEP JANE AUSTEN FESTIVAL Various locations around Bath, 01225 443000, www.janeaustenfestivalbath.co.uk, Times and prices vary, see website • Over a week of Regency-themed celebrations including talks, minibus tours, costumed parade, Austen novel readings, theatre, dance and much more.

10.30am-5pm, standard admission prices apply • A day dedicated to the zoo’s feathered friends, in honour of International Vulture Awareness Day. Look out for a variety of bird-themed activities. SAT 10 SEP FALCONRY WEEKEND Puxton Park, Cowslip Lane, Hewish, BS24 6AH, 01934 523500, www. puxton.co.uk, 9am-5.30pm, included in standard admission prices • Meet the park’s knowledgeable and friendly falconers and their birds of prey. SAT 10-SUN 11 SEP BRISTOL DOORS OPEN DAY Various venues around Bristol, www.bristoldoorsopenday.org. uk, 10am-4pm, free • Once a year chance to look behind the scenes and discover some of the city’s hidden treasures. Explore buildings, join guided tours or take part in family activities. Participating venues include Bristol Hippodrome, BBC Bristol, Redcliffe Caves, Brunel’s Engine Shed, Spike Island and Blaise Castle House Museum. SUN 11 SEP WILD RUN Wild Place Project, Blackhorse Hill, Bristol, BS10 7TP, 0117 980 7175, www.wildplace.org.uk, From 10am, £18 (adult)/£16 (child) • A 5K fun run for all ages and abilities in aid of the Giraffe House appeal. Also a 300m obstacle course mini-run, face painting, BBQ, bouncy castle, giraffethemed activities and more.

MON 12 SEP PLAYTIME Southville Centre, Beauley Rd, Southville, Bristol, BS3 1QG, 0117 923 1039, www.brave-bold-drama. co.uk, 10.30am, £6.50 per child, under 2s free • Themed imaginative play sessions for ages 2 to 5, led by experienced drama facilitators from Bristol’s Brave Bold Drama Theatre. Props, music, poems, stories and lots of magical make-believe. TUE 13 SEP TODDLER TRAILS Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dyrham-park, 10.45am-11.30am, free with standard admission prices • Garden trails designed especially for little ones; learn about shape, colour and numbers while exploring nature. FROM WED 14 SEP DESIGN: MAKE: MODIFY At Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 915 1000, www. at-bristol.org.uk, drop in sessions throughout the day, included in standard admission prices • Add creations to the Ball Run, construct a flyer for the Air Table and use light and shadows to tell a story for the Shadow Box display. WED 14 SEP BAT WALK Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dyrham-park, 7-9pm, £5 (adult)/£3 (child) • Explore the gardens in search of the furry nocturnal creatures. Bat detectors provided, booking essential. WED 14-WED 21 SEP DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY (DTD) Various venues across Bristol, 0117 902 9730, www.doingthingsdifferently.org.uk, See website for times and prices • Diverse and thoughtprovoking circus-style shows, workshops, exhibitions and talks aiming to highlight and celebrate the city’s diversity. See our pick of listings below (DTD). (See Feature. P.27). WED 14-WED 21 SEP 11 MILLION REASONS (DTD) SPACE, 6 West St, Old Market, Bristol, BS2 0BH, 0117 902 9730, www.doingthingsdifferently.org.

Doing Things Differently takes place at venues throughout Bristol, Wed 14-Wed 21 Sep. See listings marked (DTD) and Feature P.27

SAT 10 SEP BIG BIRD BONANZA Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Rd, Wraxall, BS48 1PG, 01275 852606, www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk, PRIMARY TIMES

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We are a local partnership of schools offering students a diverse range of traditional and innovative courses. Find out which school best suits your needs.

Autumn open events at all our schools

CMY

ACADEMY

• Building aspiration through great learning

• Small class sizes where everybody matters

• Outstanding teaching and results

• Small school environment

• Open evening on 22 September at 6.30pm

• Outstanding care and support systems

• Open evening for current Year 9 & 11 students, 5 October at 6.30pm.

• Open days on 23, 27 & 30 September, please contact us to make an appointment.

• Open days every Wednesday during the autumn term, see website for details

• Specialist teachers in science, technology engineering and maths

with small class sizes

www.theikbstudioschool.org.uk

www.sbllearning.org.uk

• Open evenings on 29 September & 20 October at 6.30pm. www.thebathstudioschool.org.uk

• Open evening on 6 October, see website for details.

www.wellswayschool.com

Wellsway Multi Academy Trust, c/o Wellsway School, Chandag Road Keynsham BS31 1PH T 0117 9864751 F 0117 916 103 www.wellswaymat.com

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uk, 12-6pm, free • Photographic exhibition commissioned by People Dancing, with photographer Sean Goldthorpe, aiming to positively promote deaf and disabled people who dance. THU 15 SEP TWO CAN TOUCAN (DTD) Junction 3 Library, Lower Ashley Rd, Bristol, BS5 0JF, 0117 922 3001, www. doingthingsdifferently.org.uk, time tbc, free • TwoCan Inclusive Theatre present an interactive interpretation of a story by children’s author David McKee. This adaptation uses British Sign Language and Audio Description to make the story accessible for everyone to enjoy. THU 15 SEP TODDLER FOREST SCHOOL Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/dyrham-park, 10.30am-12 noon, £7 (child)/one free adult per paying child • Learn some bushcraft, identify plants, build dens, cook over an open fire and create some crafty art work outdoors. Suitable for ages 2 to 4. FRI 16 SEP TODDLER TAKEOVER FANTASTIC FEAST At Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 915 1000, www.at-bristol.org.uk, 10am-4pm, included in standard admission prices/additional £2 for under 6s Planetarium show • Day of foodie fun especially for under 5s. Experiment in the pop-up kitchen, make an edible treat in the kitchen, plus toddler supermarket and story time. SAT 17 SEP SATURDAY ART CLUB Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney St, Bath, BA2 4DB, 01225 388569, www.holburne.org, 10.30am12.30pm, £10 per child • Sessions suitable for 5 to 13 year olds to expand their skills, learn new art techniques and create something to take home. This session’s theme is autumn glory. SAT 17 SEP EXTRAORDINARY BODIES YOUNG ARTISTS & BRISTOL OLD VIC (DTD) Colston Hall Foyer, Colston St, Bristol, BS1 5AR, 0117 902 9730, www.doingthingsdifferently.org. uk, 11-11.30am, free • A sharing of work created together with professional artists from Extraordinary Bodies. Expect a cross-disciplinary performance incorporating movement, theatre, sound and spoken word that celebrates inclusion and difference from some exceptional young talent. SAT 17 SEP YATE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL Yate and District Heritage Centre, Church Rd, Yate, Bristol, BS37 5BG, and St Mary’s Green, Yate. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage.co.uk, 10.30am-4.30pm, free • Expect performances and activities from cultures all around the world 16

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PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES! David Walliams, just one of the authors appearing at Bath Children’s Literature Festival, Sat 1 to Sun 9 Oct.

bringing people in Yate and South Gloucestershire together. Children can try Indian games, sari dressing, Chinese calligraphy, craft, and English games. Also, Indian and Polish food, plus African, Indian, Chinese, Irish and English music and dancing throughout the day. SAT 17-SUN 18 SEP EXTRAORDINARY BODIES (DTD) Castle Park, Bristol, BS1 3XD, 07877 581740, www. doingthingsdifferently.org.uk, Extraordinary Bodies: Weighting performances at Castle Park 2 and 6pm Sat and 12 and 3pm Sun, free • A celebration of equality and participation, a high rig performance by the integrated circus company, which will be accompanied by a mass community choir with BSL interpretation, audio description and touch tours: anyone and everyone is welcome to get involved with the choir, regardless of singing ability. SAT 17-SUN 18 SEP WESTON SUPER FOOD FESTIVAL The Tropicana, Marine Parade, Weston-Super-Mare, BS23 1BE, www.westonsuperfoodfestival. co.uk, see website for times, free • Packed weekend of stalls, competitions, workshops, taste tests, storytelling, street theatre and, of course, lots of delicious local food and drink. SUN 18 SEP HARVEST MOON FESTIVAL Museum of East Asian Art, 12 Bennett’s Rd, Bath, BA1 2QJ, 01225 464640, www.meaa.org. uk, 12 noon-4pm, storytelling at 12.15pm, 1.15pm and 2.15pm (booking essential), free • Celebrate this ancient East Asian tradition with craft activities inspired by the moon, plus storytelling from Martin Maudsley. SUN 18 SEP TEDDY BEARS PICNIC Avon Valley Railway, Bath Rd, Bristol, BS30 6HD, 0117 932 5538, www.avonvalleyrailway.org, 9am5pm, £7.50 (adult)/£5.50 (child) • Children accompanied by a teddy bear travel free on both the steam and diesel hauled trains. Plus plenty of fun throughout the day including balloon modelling, Punch and Judy, teddy bear hunt and arts and crafts. TUE 20 SEP HAYESFIELD GIRLS’ SCHOOL OPEN EVENING Upper Oldfield Park, Bath, BA2 3LA, 01225 426151, www.hayesfield.com. 6pm-8.30pm, free • Explore the campus and speak to students and staff at the all-girls secondary school. Also an open morning from 9am on Fri 23 Sep. TUE 20-SUN 25 SEP ENCOUNTERS FILM FESTIVAL Watershed, 1 Canon’s Rd, Bristol, BS1 5TX, 0117 927 5100 and Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 5TX, 0117 917 2300, www. encounters-festival.org.uk, see

website for programme times, day pass (Wed, Thu or Fri) £25/ festival pass £75 • Over 200 short film screenings including the children’s 7+ and 11+ awards, industry talks, animation and an exclusive evening with Aardman co-founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton. (See feature, P.28). WED 21 SEP BAT WALK Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/dyrham-park, 7-9pm, £5 (adult)/£3 (child) • Explore the gardens in search of these furry nocturnal creatures. Bat detectors provided, booking essential. WED 21-THU 22 SEP TYNTETOTS:THE ELVES AND THE SHOEMAKERS Tyntesfield, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1NX, 01275 461900, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield. 10-11.45am, £3 (adult)/£7 (child) • Hear the story of the Elves and the Shoemaker and do a elf walk across the estate. Play shoe games and do some messy crafts to take home. A hot drink is included for adults. FROM THU 22 SEP LIVE LAB: INSIDE ME At Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 915 1000, www.at-bristol.org.uk. Drop-in sessions throughout the day, included in standard admission prices • From the limbs to the brain, explore how the body works, with At-Bristol’s experts. THU 22 SEP TODDLER FOREST SCHOOL Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/dyrham-park, 10.30am-12pm £7 (child)/one free adult per paying child • Learn some bushcraft, identify plants, build dens, cook over an open fire and create crafty art work outdoors. Suitable for children aged 2 to 4. FRI 23 SEP SUNSET CINEMA: THE LEGO MOVIE Ashton Court Estate, Long Ashton, Bristol, BS41 9JN, 02030 536089, www.yplanapp.com/bristol/bristol-sunset-cinema. 8pm, £12.50 (adult)/£8 (child) • See the

critically acclaimed children’s film starring those famous bricks in a special outdoor setting. FRI 23 SEP HAYESFIELD GIRLS’ SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Upper Oldfield Park, Bath, BA2 3LA, 01225 426151, www.hayesfield.com. 9am, free • Explore the campus and speak to students and staff at the allgirls secondary school. SAT 24 SEP BALLAST SEED GARDEN TEA PARTY Meet at Arnolfini Box Office, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA, 0117 917 2300, www.arnolfini.org.uk. 2.30pm-4pm, £6 (adults)/£4 (under 12s)/under 2s free • Discover the edible plant life on board and turn it into delicious floral brews or gardeninspired cupcakes. Led by artist Heather Morison. SAT 24 SEP NEARLY NEW SALE Longwell Green Primary School, Ellacombe Rd, Longwell Green, Bristol, BS30 9BA, 07947 315824, 10.30am-12pm, free • Items for sale include baby equipment, toys, games, puzzles, bikes and buggies. Percentage of sales go to Friends of Longwell Green Primary School. SAT 24 SEP REDMAIDS’ HIGH OPEN MORNING Westbury Rd, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, BS9 3AW, 0117 962 2641, www.redmaidshigh.co.uk/admissions, 9.30am, free • Look around Red Maids’ campus and find out more about the merger between Redland High and Red Maids’ when the merged school opens in Sep 2017. SAT 24 SEP WORLD RHINO DAY Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Rd, Wraxall, BS48 1PG, 01275 852606, www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk, 10.30am-5pm, standard admission prices apply • Fun activities throughout the day to raise awareness of issues faced by rhinos in the wild. SAT 24-SUN 25 SEP ARCHITECTURE CENTRE ANNIVERSARY WEEKENDER Narrow Quay, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 4BA, www.architecturecentre. co.uk, 12 noon-5pm, free • Enjoy a range of activities on Saturday, from

PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 09:22:40

“I would just like to say how amazing it was on Saturday, the kids all had a fantastic time.”

BIRTHDAY

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■ Assault course

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■ Tunnel maze

■ Climbing wall

■ Sports parties

■ Zorbing

■ Party tea

For more information visit

www.mojoactive.co.uk or call 01454 660075 Holiday clubs | Parties | High Ropes Schools | Stag & Hen Parties | Fitness Corporate Teambuilding

PRIMARY TIMES

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guided walks to advice sessions and live illustration, followed by an Our Place party on Sunday. Expect a “village green” style transformation of Narrow Quay with family activities, fun palace from Shape My City and creations from University of the West of England’s Masters of Architecture students. SAT 24-SUN 25 SEP BATH AND BRISTOL FOOD FESTIVAL Bath Racecourse, Lansdown, Bath, BA1 9BU, 01372 869648, www. fantasticbritishfoodfestivals.com/ bath-food-festival, 10am-5pm, £10 (adult)/£5 (child) • Fresh, regional produce and international dishes from more than 50 stalls. Everything from gourmet burgers to artisan beers and ice cream, plus garden games for children, storyteller, crafts and live culinary demonstrations. SAT 24-SUN 25 SEP 1940S WEEKEND Avon Valley Railway, Bath Rd, Bristol, BS30 6HD, 0117 932 5538, www. avonvalleyrailway.org, 9am-5pm, £10 (adults)/£8 (child)/under 5s free • A whole weekend of vintage fun and attractions taking a lighthearted look at life during World War II. Expect live music, vintage stalls, sweet shop, vehicle displays, Punch and Judy and an appearance from ‘Winston Churchill’. SUN 25 SEP ARCHITECTURAL CAKE COMPETITION Narrow Quay, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 4BA, www.architecturecentre. co.uk, 2pm-3pm, free • Bakers are invited to make their own edible Bristol landmark. Creations will be judged by a local VIP with prizes available for individual, group and child entries. SUN 25 SEP AUTUMN FETE AND CRAFT FAYRE Holiday Inn Bristol, Filton Rd, Filton, BS16 1QX, 08719 429014, www.hibristolfiltonhotel.co.uk, 12 noon-4.30pm, free • Retro fun including Punch and Judy, Treasure Hunt, coconut shy, hotel tours, bouncy castle, fully licenced bar and more. In aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. WED 28 SEP BAT WALK Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dyrham-park. 7-9pm, £5 (adult)/£3 (child) • Explore the gardens in search of the furry nocturnal creatures. Bat detectors provided, booking essential.

OCTOBER SAT 1 OCT ABBOTTSWOOD AUTUMN APPLE DAY St Nicholas Family Centre Garden, Chargrove, Yate, BS37 4LG, 01454 313648, www.stnix.co.uk, 11am-3pm, free • Seasonal celebration of all things autumnal with creative activities for all ages. 18

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

The Luminous Robot Circus, At Bristol, until Sun 20 Nov

trator Jamie Littler on Fri 7 Oct (see listing below). SUN 2 OCT COLOUR FUN RUN Oldbury Court Estate, Oldbury Court Rd, Fishponds, Bristol, BS16 2JH, 07794 529803, www.thecolourfunrun.co.uk, 12 noon-5pm, race starts 2pm, £14.50 or £16.50 (adult)/£8 or £9 (child) • Promising the brightest 5k run around, in aid of homeless charity St Julian’s House. Walk, jog or even skip round the course while being splashed with brightly coloured powder paint along the way.

SAT 1 OCT QEH OPEN MORNING QEH, Berkeley Place, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1JX, 10am-12 noon, www.qehbristol.co.uk, free • A chance for parents to tour the school’s new science and art facilities and discuss the education QEH can offer your child after leaving primary school. QEH is a school for boys, with girls able to join at Sixth Form level from September 2017. SAT 1 OCT SATURDAY ART CLUB Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney St, Bath, BA2 4DB, 01225 388569, www.holburne.org, 10.30am12.30pm, £10 per child • Sessions suitable for 5 to 13 year olds to expand their skills, learn new art techniques and create something to take home. This session’s theme is exotic animal prints. SAT 1-SUN 9 OCT BATH CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL (BCLF) Various venues around Bath, see website for full programme of events, times and prices, 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals.org.uk/ childrens-literature • Nine days jam-packed with over 100 talks, activities, story-telling and more. It’s the festival’s 10th birthday with guests including David Walliams, astronaut Chris Hadfield, Liz Pichon, Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, Michael Morpurgo, children’s laureate Chris Riddell and Malorie Blackman. See our pick of events, marked (BCLF). SAT 1 OCT DAVID WALLIAMS (BCLF) The Forum, 1A Forum Buildings, Bath, BA1 1UG, 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature, 10am-11am, £8 • Meet one of the biggest names in children’s literature and prepare to laugh as David discusses his life and books. SAT 1 OCT ROALD DAHL’S MOST VILLANOUS VILLAINS (BCLF) Guildhall, High St, Bath, BA1 5AW, 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals. org.uk/childrens-literature, 3.15pm4pm, £7 • Blue Peter’s Lindsey Russell oversees the mischief as four guests battle it out to champion their favourite anti-hero. Could it be Miss Trunchbull, the Twits or perhaps the Grand High Witch? Expect plenty of games and quizzes.

SAT 1-SUN 30 OCT BRISTOL FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL (BFAF) Various venues across Bristol including the Arnolfini, Children’s Scrapstore and Bristol Museum. www.arnolfini.org.uk/whatson/ series/family-arts-festival-2016, see website for prices and times • Innovation is the theme for this year’s festival: expect more than 60 events including visual arts, film, theatre, music, dance, play and storytelling. Look out for listings marked (BFAF). SAT 1 OCT BRUNEL AND THE BARD STORYTELLING (BFAF) ss Great Britain, Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Rd, Bristol, BS1 6TY, 0117 926 0680, www.ssgreatbritain.org, 11.30am-1.30pm, free • Follow the story of Brunel as he steps into one of his Shakespeare paintings for an adventure. SAT 1 OCT SUPER SATURDAY SESSION (BFAF) Children’s Scrapstore and Artrageous, Scrapstore House, 21 Sevier St, St Werburghs, Bristol, BS2 9LB, 0117 908 5644, www.childrensscrapstore.co.uk, 10.30am-2pm, free • Drop-in arts and crafts session using materials from the onsite Artrageous shop. SAT 1-SUN 2 OCT MADE IN NORTH SOMERSET FESTIVAL SHOWCASE Tyntesfield, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1NX, 01275 461900, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield, 10am4pm, included in standard admission prices • Tyntesfield hosts a large market with local producers, handmade crafts and entertainment including children’s activities, storytelling and apple pressing. SAT 1-SUN 9 OCT KIDS BIG BATH READ (BCLF) Primary Schools around Bath, 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature/ kids-big-bath-read • Aiming to encourage reading for pleasure, this year’s event discusses Danny Wallace’s book ‘Hamish and the World Stoppers’. Look out for illustrations and stories created by the children in response to the book on display during Bath’s Children’s Literature Festival and meet illus-

SUN 2 OCT LUCY WORSLEY (BCLF) Guildhall, High St, Bath, BA1 5AW, 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals. org.uk/childrens-literature, 5pm5.45pm, £7.50 • Historian Lucy Worsley discusses her novel ‘Eliza Rose’. Told through the eyes of a maid of honour at Henry VIII’s court, expect costumes and Tudor trivia galore. TUE 4 OCT SEA HEAR FAMILY STORYTELLING (BFAF) ss Great Britain, Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Rd, Bristol, BS1 6TY, 0117 926 0680, www.ssgreatbritain.org, 11.30am-12pm and 1pm1.30pm, free • Resident storyteller Sarah Mooney presents a tale of maritime adventure on the high seas. Great for little ones with big imaginations. TUE 4 OCT MAKE YOUR OWN MAGICAL GARDEN (BCLF) The egg, 36 Monmouth St, Bath, BA1 2AN, 01225 823409, www.bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature, 2pm3pm, all tickets £5 • Magical adventure with Chrissie Weltike, inspired by Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’. Create a fairy garden to take home. TUE 4-MON 10 OCT WORLD SPACE WEEK At Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 915 1000, www. at-bristol.org.uk, 10am-5pm, standard admission prices apply • The Live Science team brings a range of space-themed activities for visitors to try, including the chance to hold a real meteorite, launch a pop rocket and try space ice-cream. WED 5 OCT CHILDREN’S SCRAPSTORE: ART CLUB (BFAF) Children’s Scrapstore and Artrageous, Scrapstore House, 21 Sevier St, St Werburghs, Bristol, BS2 9LB, 0117 908 5644, www.childrensscrapstore.co.uk, 4pm-5.30pm, £7 per child • After school club for 6 to 12 year olds; take inspiration from different artists and experiment with a variety of art forms. THU 6 OCT TODDLER FOREST SCHOOL Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/dyrham-park, 10.30am-12pm £7(child)/one free adult per paying child • Suitable for children aged 2-4. » PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 13:58:43

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www.mojoactive.co.uk or call 01454 660075 Holiday clubs | Parties | High Ropes Schools | Stag & Hen Parties | Fitness Corporate Teambuilding

PRIMARY TIMES

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THU 6 OCT UNDER 5S MAKE A MESS (BFAF) Children’s Scrapstore and Artrageous, Scrapstore House, 21 Sevier St, St Werburghs, Bristol, BS2 9LB, 0117 9085644, www. childrensscrapstore.co.uk, 10.1511.45am, £5 for first child/£3.50 for each sibling • Messy art session dedicated to free play-with no mess to clean up at home. Wear old clothes.

MON 10 OCT PLAYTIME Southville Centre, Beauley Rd, Southville, Bristol, BS3 1QG, 0117 923 1039, www.brave-bold-drama. co.uk, 10.30am, £6.50 per child, under 2s free • Themed imaginative play sessions for ages 2 to 5, led by experienced drama facilitators from Bristol’s Brave Bold Drama theatre company. Props, music, poems, stories and lots of magical make-believe.

THU 6 OCT GARDEN DELIGHTS Bristol Zoo, College Rd, Bristol, BS8 3HA, 0117 974 7300, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, Tours from 2pm, £22 including zoo entry • Relaxing tour of the zoo’s award-winning botanical gardens. Learn about unusual trees, plants and shrubs from around the world before enjoying a cream tea (also included in ticket prices).

THU 13 OCT HAYESFIELD GIRLS’ SCHOOL OPEN AFTERNOON Upper Oldfield Park, Bath, BA2 3LA, 01225 426151, www.hayesfield.com, From 1.30pm, free • Explore the campus and speak to students and staff at the all-girls secondary school.

FRI 7 OCT HAMISH AND THE WORLD STOPPERS WITH JAMIE LITTLER (BCLF) Guildhall, High St, Bath, BA1 5AW, 01225 394041, www.bathfestivals. org.uk/childrens-literature, 1.152pm, all tickets £4 • Meet the illustrator of this years’ Kids Big Bath Read novel. Expect live drawing and plenty of laughs. SAT 8 OCT CHRIS RIDDELL: ASK THE LAUREATE (BCLF) The Forum, 1A Forum Buildings, Bath, BA1 1UG, 01225 462231, www. bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature, 3-4pm, all tickets £7.50 • Ask the current children’s laureate a question and he will illustrate the answer, plus the inspiration behind popular works ‘Ottaline’ and ‘Goth Girl’. SAT 8 OCT MICHAEL MORPURGO (BCLF) Guildhall, High St, Bath, BA1 5AW, 01225 394041, www.bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature, 5-6pm, all tickets £8 • The former children’s laureate and master storyteller discusses the inspiration behind his many books, including latest novel ‘An Eagle in the Snow’. SUN 9 OCT FUNGUS DAY FEED, Frenchay Park Rd, Bristol, BS16 1HB, 0117 917 7270, www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/feedbristol, 10am-4pm, free • Celebrate UK Fungus Day with kid’s activities, a fungi film space, mushroom cultivation workshops, fungi foraging and much more. SUN 9 OCT THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA (BCLF) Bath Central Library, Northgate St, Bath, BA1 5AN, 01225 463362, www.bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature, 3pm-3.45pm, £5 • Judith Kerr’s classic about the tiger with an endless appetite is brought to life by a professional storyteller, plus a lifelike tiger waiting at the door. Enjoy some cake and let your imagination run wild. 20

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THU 13 OCT TODDLER FOREST SCHOOL Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/dyrham-park, 10.30am-12pm £7(child)/one free adult per paying child • Learn some bushcraft, identify plants, build dens, cook over an open fire and create some crafty art work outdoors. Suitable for children aged 2 to 4. SAT 15 OCT SATURDAY ART CLUB Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney St, Bath, BA2 4DB, 01225 388569, www.holburne.org. 10.30am12.30pm, £10 per child • Sessions suitable for 5 to 13 year olds. SAT 15 OCT OUR PLACE (BFAF) Junction 3 Library, Lower Ashley Rd, Bristol, BS5 0JF, 0117 922 3001, www.architecturecentre.co.uk, 12-3pm, free • The Architecture Centre, Watershed and Children’s Scrapstore team up to provide a creative afternoon exploring the theme of people and places. SAT 15 OCT SECOND HAND BOOK SALE Longwell Green Primary School, Ellacombe Rd, Longwell Green, Bristol, BS30 9BA, 07947315824, 10am-12pm, free • Promising good quality books for all ages from preschool to adult from as little as 10p. Percentage of sales goes to Friends of Longwell Green Primary School.

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

Sea Hear Family Storytelling, ss Great Britain, Bristol, Tue 4 Oct. Part of the Bristol Family Arts Festival . See listings marked (BFAF)

field, carve spooky shapes and try some seasonal pumpkin dishes. Or cosy up and listen to the heartwarming story of Spookley, the square shaped pumpkin.

than life drawing of yourself in the gallery. Part of Museums Week.

SUN 16 OCT BRISTOL BIG WALKIES Blaise Castle Estate, Kings Weston Rd, Bristol, BS10 7QS, 0117 3003968, www.rspca.org.uk/ bigwalkies, 10.30am-3pm, £10 per dog and owner/additional dogs £5 • Four and two legged friends join together for a mammoth walk in aid of the RSPCA. Two routes available; 2.4 and 4.km. Don’t have a dog? No problem, all human supporters welcome.

SAT 22-SUN 30 OCT MUSEUMS WEEK Various locations across Bath and North Somerset, www.bathmuseumsweek.co.uk • The new name for Heritage Open Week which has been running for over 30 years during the autumn half term. Holders of a discovery card get free entry to a range of venues all week, including Bath Fashion Museum, Victoria Art Gallery, Sally Lunn’s House, Bath Abbey and many more. For more info about discovery cards go to www.bathnes.gov. uk/discoverycard

SUN 16 OCT CHAMPION TREE WALK Tyntesfield, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1NX, 01275 461900, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield. 9.30am-12.30pm, £10 per person • Tyntesfield’s resident tree registrar Chris Watts leads a walk through the estate to discover hidden gems and ancient giants.

MON 24-FRI 28 OCT THE BIG DRAW: EX LIBRIS The Roman Baths, Stall St, Bath, BA1 1LZ, 01225 477785, www. romanbaths.co.uk, 10am-1pm and 2pm-4pm, included in standard admission prices • Part of Museums Week - learn a bit of Latin and make a Roman bookmark to take home.

WED 19-THU 20 OCT TYNTETOTS: HANSEL AND GRETEL Tyntesfield, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1NX, 01275 461900, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield, 10-11.45am, £3 (adult)/£7 (child) • Walk through the woods and follow a fairytale trail to a gingerbread cottage. Play woodland games and crafts then hear the fairytale of Hansel and Gretel. A hot drink included for the adults.

TUE 25-THU 27 OCT THE BIG DRAW: LEG ROOM Fashion Museum, Assembly Rooms, Bennett St, Bath, BA1 2QH, 01225 477789, www.fashionmuseum.co.uk, 1pm-3.30pm, included in standard admission prices/free with discovery card • Create lifesized leggings with amazing patterns inspired by outfits on display. Part of Museums Week.

SAT 15 OCT GRAND PIER’S SIXTH BIRTHDAY Marine Parade, Weston-superMare, Somerset, BS23 1AL, 01934 646155, www.grandpier.co.uk, From 12pm, free • Pirate-themed family fun day featuring face painting, giant games, treasure hunt, craft area, bouncy castle and more.

FRI 21 OCT BABY ART HOUR (BFAF) Spike Island, 133 Cumberland Rd, Bristol, BS1 6UX, 0117 929 2266, www.spikeisland.org.uk. 10am11am, £3 for the first child/£1 per additional child • Play with colour, shape, texture and easy ways to create, using simple methods and materials in this session for under 5s and their carers.

SAT 15-SUN 16 OCT SPOOKLEY PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Farrington Farm, Main St, Farrington Gurney, BS39 6UB, 01761 452266, www.farringtons. co.uk, 10am-4pm, prices TBA • Pick from thousands of home-grown pumpkins from the pumpkin patch

SAT 22 OCT THE BIG DRAW: WE DO MEAN BIG Victoria Art Gallery, Bridge St, Bath, BA2 4AT, 01225 477233, www.victoriagal.org.uk, 10.30am12.30pm and 2pm-4pm, standard admission prices apply/free with discovery card • Create a larger

SUN 30 OCT BRISTOL FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL FINALE (BFAF) Arnolfini Auditorium, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA, 0117 917 2300, www.architecturecentre. co.uk/family-arts-festivalfinale-2016, 1pm-4pm, free • Drop in workshop offering a fun afternoon of creativity. Hosted by the Architecture Centre, Arnolfini, Bristol Doors Open Day, Watershed and Artrageous.

ROUNDABOUT AND THEATRE LISTINGS BY ELLEN WHITE PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 09:24:12

Autumn Open Events

Open Evening: Tuesday 20 September 2016 6.30pm - 8.30pm

“Pupils are able to thrive and become g confident yothun people at e Academy”

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Open Mornings: Monday 26 September to Friday 7 October 2016

0117 986 4791 contactus@broadlandsacademy.org @BroadlandsBS31

www.broadlandsacademy.org Broadlands Academy, St Francis Road, Keynsham, Bristol BS31 2DY

(by appointment)

BUS ROUTES FOR BS4, BS14, : BS15 & BS30

‘A Good school’ - Ofsted 2016 PRIMARY TIMES

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Family packages available now for Spring 2016 The only ‘Learning

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©LW

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PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 10:17:20

Henning Löhlein

Astral

Woofs

As Bristol illustrator Henning Löhlein publishes his first solo book, Ellen White discovers an artist and author inspiring children to follow their dreams.

lanets made of cheese and space rocket ice lollies dance before your eyes, while a curious dog in a space helmet dreams of other worlds. This is no space age version of Crufts but the latest book by prolific illustrator Henning Löhlein, ‘Ludwig the Space Dog’, his first as a writer as well as an artist. German-born Henning studied in France before an Erasmus exchange brought him to Bristol, where he finished his studies in illustration at the University of the West of England. Fifteen years of illustrative work for publications including The Guardian, Financial Times and Country Life followed, but he was increasingly drawn to illustrating children’s books and this has now become his full time occupation. “After years of editorial, it was nice to work on something which leaves a deeper, lasting impression,” he explains. “After PRIMARY TIMES

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having my own children, I wanted to leave behind something more than the next day’s chip paper.” Subsequently, he has collaborated on 35 books with leading children’s fiction writers including Andy Mansfield, James Riordan and Adam Frost while former children’s laureate Julia Donaldson described his ‘My Name is Mr Fox’, with author Shen Roddie, as one of her top 10 favourite picture books of recent times. This time Henning has struck out on his own, writing the story and naming his canine hero Ludwig, after his own son’s middle name, and adding a three dimensional element to the tale, complete with accompanying 3D specs. “‘Space Dog’ was inspired by 3D cinema,” Henning says. “The marriage between the 2D and 3D imagery reflects the book’s themes: imagination, knowledge and the urge to explore other dimensions. Ludwig and his friends all come from pages of books, but he’s the only one to think outside the box.” Each page contains three dimensional elements which increase in frequency, culminating in a fully 3D double page spread when Ludwig reaches space. “I hope Ludwig teaches children that it’s ok to be different,” says Henning. “You just need to believe in your abilities and follow your dreams. That’s why I chose the space theme: as well as lending itself very nicely to 3D, there’s that out-of-this-world

quality and thinking beyond your comfort zone.” The book itself is a visual feast, with a mix of painting, line drawings and photographs; a blend of media and style which add to the overall 3D effect. One of its nice touches is the way Ludwig and his friends are drawn reflects their personalities; we’re introduced to our hero as he springs from an atlas, demonstrating his love of adventure. “I wanted the drawings to reflect our imaginations, where anything is possible, while the photographs show the real world,” Henning explains. “Ludwig loves to read, which makes him different from his friends but, by learning, he is able to explore the world beyond the books they live in. That’s what I hope children will gain from my work: a desire to learn and think beyond what you see in front of you.”

Ludwig the Space Dog is published Thu 8 Sep. The Bristol launch is at Centrespace Gallery on Fri 30 Sep, 6-9pm and Sat 1 Oct from 12-4pm. Ffi: Centrespace Gallery 6 Leonard Lane, Bristol, BS1 1EA W: www.lohlein.com

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WHAT WILL YOU MAKE OF IT?

at-bristol.org.uk A registered charity (no. 1049954)

Looking for an exceptional local school? Look no further as we celebrate a significant rise of 6% in overall results from last year!

Open Evening: Thursday 22nd September 6-9pm; Open Mornings: Thursday 29th & Friday 30th September, Tuesday 4th & Wednesday 5th October 9.15-10.30am. All Welcome!

Amazing students, very enthusiastic staff, feels very warm, welcoming and inclusive - love it - Prospective parent

In the top 12% nationally for Value Added www.fairfield.bristol.sch.uk 24

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...good with outstanding features

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18/08/2016 13:47:55

Pic: Jon Craig

With Bristol Doors Open Day extended to a full weekend this year, Ellen White is thrilled to have extra time to explore the city’s special buildings.

From tunnels to towers

t’s not often you get to explore Bristol top to bottom, from Redcliffe Caves ringing the bells in St. Philip and St. Jacob’s Church to exploring the Redcliffe Caves below Phoenix Wharf. Yet every September, you can. With last year’s event attracting over 48,000 visitors, 2016’s Doors Open Day in fact takes place over a whole weekend, with additional Sunday opening and many new venues taking part across a wider area than ever before. Part of Heritage Open Days, which take place across England every September, this year Bristol’s Doors Open is coordinated by registered charity the Architecture Centre, and is a key event in its month long anniversary programme. Anna Farthing, ent light. All venues are family producer of Doors Open Day for friendly (unless there are specific the Architecture Centre, explains restrictions for safety reasons), what exactly is so special about and many are laying on their own this annual event. “It’s a wonderevents and activities specifically ful opportunity to get outside and for children. It’s also the first time learn about the city and those who this event covers the whole weekcreated it,” she says. “Children end.” can see the city in a whole differThese include butter making at Blaise Castle, drop-in art workshops at The Station, impromptu performances at the Wardrobe Theatre and tightwire, juggling and more at Circomedia’s family fun day. If little legs are getting tired, a rally of vintage buses is held at Lloyds Amphitheatre offering free rides to a number of Doors Open venues and historic areas of the city. “Thanks to funding from Historic England and Heritage Lottery Fund the Architecture Centre has been able to hire someone to work specifically on this event,” says Anna. “We are helping venues create activities for families throughout the year. But as the new school year begins, we ch Chur St Stephen’s are really keen for families to go PRIMARY TIMES

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out and see the city through new eyes. Having behind-the-scenes access to venues is really interesting and there will always be enthusiastic people on hand to point out fascinating features and answer questions.” The full programme is available online and helpfully organised by area, meaning many routes are practically planned out for you if you’re thinking of making a day of it. Just a 15 minute walk down Whiteladies Road to Park Row passes over 10 venues ready to explore. You could start by booking a tour behind the scenes at BBC Bristol, before exploring Bristol Museum and the university’s Wills Memorial Building on Queens Road, then it’s just a few minutes stroll to discover public lavatory-come-art space, the Edwardian Cloakroom and the iconic crimson door of the Red Lodge Museum. “Round the Harbourside is great for families too,” Anna suggests. “The

Underfall Yard has heaps of handson exhibits, or at Puppet Place you can meet the artists making puppets for stage and see their puppet shows, demos and films. There’s still a lot of Eco buildings to explore too, following on from Bristol’s status as European Green Capital last year. Try the Filwood Green Business Centre and visit their digital studio with demonstrations or the futuristic fete at Hengrove Mounds Nature Park with music, dance, food and costumes.” The majority of venues are available for drop-in tours on the day, but some such as the rock chambers below Clifton Suspension Bridge, St. George’s concert hall, the Bottle Yard Studios and Bristol Temple Meads Tunnels must be booked in advance. “We understand there are lots of busy families out there getting ready to go back to school,” says Anna. “So hopefully, with the extra day, there’ll be time for everyone to visit. And remember, access to all venues is absolutely free.” Ffi: Bristol Doors Open Day venues across Bristol, Sat 11-Sun 12 Sep, 11am-4pm W: www.bristol doorsopenday.org.uk.

Light Vessel 55, seen from acros s Bathurst Basin, takes part in Doors Open Day.

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Birthday Parties

Looking for an unusual party idea? Take a look at one of our Children’s Party packages - enjoy two hours in the cinema. Watch a film or play games on the big screen and then sit down and have a delicious Watershed Burger and chips, plus a drink.

WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING

So if you are looking for a totally different party experience - call us on 0117 927 2082 or email: events@watershed.co.uk to discuss your needs.

Saturday 24th September 2016, 9.30am-12.00pm

watershed.co.uk Watershed, 1 Canons Road, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5TX ©LW

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Doing Things Differently promises spectacle and fun for families this September when it launches its mix of acrobatics and interactive shows across Bristol.

Something

completely

DOING THI WED 1 NGS DIFFER 4-WED ENTLY WWW. 21 SEP DOING THING SDI ORG.UFFERENTLY. K

different

t will be inspirational, diverse, inclusive . . . but most of all, it will be fun. Doing Things Differently (DTD) is a new programme of events brought together by many of Bristol’s best established arts and performance organisations, including Cirque Bijou, Diverse City and Trinity Bristol, to create a week of entertaining and thought provoking performances, offering the chance for children and families to get involved in workshops and shows. Running from Wed 14-Wed 21 Sep, DTD features Weighting, acrobatic performances in Castle Park by able-bodied and disabled performers; Two Can Toucan, a free interactive show which families can join in following the redemptive tale of a nameless bird mocked by other animals, including British Sign Language and audio description as part of the show; and circus collaboration between Extraordinary Bodies Young Artists and Bristol Old Vic.

Two Can Toucan

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Extraordinary Bodies perform at The Colston Hall

EXTRAORDINARY AS IT SEEMS The headline show of Doing Things Differently, this outdoor circus spectacle is performed by integrated circus company, Extraordinary Bodies. Combining circus, dance and theatre ‘Weighting’ tells the story of an extraordinary family making new discoveries in the face of love and loss. The cast includes seven disabled and non-disabled performers who take to the air on a huge high rig. Accompanied by a five-piece band playing an original score and backed by a mass community choir of 200 singers, the show celebrates risk-taking, transformation and asks, “when is the right time to let go?” Weighting Castle Park, Bristol, Sat 17-Sun 18 Sep, 2pm & 6pm (Sat), 12 noon & 3pm (Sun). TOUCAN DO ATTITUDE The central character in David McKee’s story Two Can Toucan is a forest bird, entirely black apart from his white eyes, who is roundly mocked by other forest dwellers for his state of namelessness. The free event invites families to follow the bird’s colourful journey, brought to life by Twocan Inclusive Theatre Company, as he finds fortune and even a name. Promising a mischievous theatrical adventure the company uses

British Sign Language and Audio Description to make the story accessible for everyone to enjoy. Two Can Toucan Junction 3 Library, Easton, Bristol, BS5 0FJ, Thu 15 Sep, 1:30-2:30pm. MASTERING MOVEMENT Following a weekend masterclass with the integrated circus company Extraordinary Bodies Young Artists (EBYA) and young artists from Bristol Old Vic (BOV), the two groups present a shared work that they have created together with professional artists from Extraordinary Bodies (see Weighting, above). Expect a cross-disciplinary performance by exceptional young talent incorporating movement, theatre, sound and spoken word that celebrates inclusion and difference. Extraordinary Bodies Young Artists & Bristol Old Vic Colston Hall Foyer, Colston St, Bristol, BS1 Weighting (this image and top) 5AR, Sat 17 Sep, 11am–11.30am. BACK TO SCHOOL 2016

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ENCOU NT ANIMAERS SHORT TION F FILM & T WWW. UE 20-SUN ESTIVAL ENCOU 2 NTERS5 SEP ORG.U -FESTIVA L. K

Screens of

delight

Bristol goes animation crazy in September as Encounters takes over the harbourside cinemas. Primary Times explores the film festival you can take the whole family to.

or film enthusiasts with little ones, spending quality family time at a film festival can be challenging. But parents need not despair, because in September Bristol’s harbourside will play host to a film festival that’s as fun for the kids as it is for the adults. Encounters Short Film and Animation Festival takes place on Bristol’s iconic harbour side from Tue 20 to Sun 25 Sep and this year marks the 22nd incarnation of this prestigious festival at its main festival venue, Watershed. The event was co-founded by David Sproxton, an original member of the Aardman Animation family, and fun for every generation is part of its very being. Since 1976 Aardman has created some of the most popular and widely loved family friendly TV shows and feature films, including ‘Morph’, ‘Wallace

and Gromit’, ‘Chicken Run’ and ‘Shaun the Sheep’. This year Aardman celebrates its 40th anniversary and where better to kick off the party than at Bristol’s most family-friendly film and animation festival? Free family workshops give little ones the chance to get hands-on and create their own Gromit or Shaun the Sheep models under the expert tuition of Aardman model makers. Kids get the opportunity to ask studio experts questions about the animation process involved in making their many award-winning films. They’ll then be able to take their creations home and try their hand at animating using Aardman’s easyto-use animation software. If your children are more interested in the silver screen, there’s the chance for them to enjoy the efforts of their peers at Watershed

Cinema Two on Saturday morning, with Encounters’ Children’s Award Screenings. These screenings have been created by a group of local children and young people who have viewed, reviewed and then programmed the selection of short films on offer. They’re divided into two categories, for children aged over 7 and 11. Work on show includes Julia Ocker’s ‘Octopus’, in which the creature in the title attempts to bake a peach cake but gets into difficulty when one of her arms decides it has baking plans of its own. Then there’s ‘The Red Herring’ by Leevi Lemmetty, an animated comedy which focuses on a group of penguins who get a little too greedy for their own good. For the older kids there is the Children’s Award 11+ which also features films selected by a group of local children and young people, for a slightly older, pre-

teen audience. “We’re sure this programme of films, workshops and activities will leave young ones feeling inspired about film and animation,” says Encounters co-director, Alice Cabanas. For the adults Encounters celebrates the best short films from around the world screened over five days, alongside a series of big screen events and an annual international film competition, ‘Widening the Lens’. Success at Encounters opens the door to the Oscars, BAFTAs, European Film Awards and the Cartoon d’Or. With filmmakers from over 40 countries represented, the festival is a hotbed of new talent with an education programme that’s well worth exploring. Encounters Short Film and Animation Festival W: www.encounters-festival.org.uk Pictured: scenes from films selected for the 7+ age group. Clockwise from top: ‘The Red Herring’, Leevi Lemmetty; ‘The Marathon Diary’, Hanne Berkaak and ‘First Snow’, Lenka Ivancikova

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PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 09:05:52

WELCOME TO THE SCHOOL FOR ADVENTUROUS MINDS EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES AT KES

DOWNEND SCHOOL

SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING FRIDAY 23 SEPTEMBER 2016

OPEN EVENING THURSDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 5.45–8pm

SENIOR, JUNIOR AND PRE-PREP & NURSERY OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2016 Please register at www.kesbath.com or tel: 01225 820399

WESTERLEIGH ROAD, DOWNEND, SOUTH GLOS BS16 6XA 01454 862300 | downend.com

@KESBath

/kesbath

Back to

! l o o h c S

£10 Afterschool

Early Years

Club

Join our pre-school club for 0-4 year olds – for free! Fantastic benefits include: • Midweek prices at weekends and school holidays for 0-4 year olds! • Free visit for your child’s birthday • 10% off café purchases • 20% off children’s parties

Party!

Is your child celebrating a birthday or just wanting to enjoy some fun with their friends? Enjoy our Afterschool Party, Monday - Friday term time for £10 per child! Even better – the Birthday child goes free!

Afterschool Visit Jump after 3.30pm Monday - Friday school term time and children pay £4.50! Entrance + Hot Meal & Drink only £7.00!

For more information, please give us a call on

0117 931 2733 or visit our website at www.123jump.co.uk Terms and Conditions: Applies to new bookings only and cannot be added retrospectively. Minimum Number of 8 paying children. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Applies to Afterschool Parties only and does not include Weekend/Holiday Activity, Laser, Toddler, Teenage or Adult party events. ©LW

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18/08/2016 13:56:38

ASHTON PARK SCHOOL A warm invitation to Year 6 Students and their Parents to join us for our

Open Evening Thursday 22nd September 2016 6.00 - 8.30pm Tours 6pm-7.45pm ~ Headteacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Speech 8pm or see the school in action

Open Mornings Monday 26th September 11.15am-12.45pm Tuesday 27th September 11.15am -12.45pm We are: A popular school committed to looking after the individual needs of every child An inclusive school that supports all students in becoming resilient, self-confident and independent A school with a state of the art learning environment set in the stunning backdrop of the Ashton Court Estate A caring school with a vibrant community spirit based on respect and with a strong emphasis on its co-operative values An innovative school focused on learning and raising achievement, aspiration and ambition for all A progressive school with an enviable enrichment programme. Tel: 0117 377 2777 | Fax: 0117 377 2778 www.ashtonpark.net | mail@ashtonpark.net

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18/08/2016 13:51:03

ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi “Every student a leader” City Academy is a vibrant, diverse and dynamic academy in the centre of Bristol and is part of the Cabot Learning Federation (CLF). It offers a contemporary curriculum that is both innovative and future-proof. This inspiring academy will secure social and economic mobility for all students and its success will always be judged by its learners’ outcomes, by the quality and diversity of the workforce, and by its contribution to the CLF, Bristol and beyond. The experience of students, parents and staff at City Academy will be underpinned by a strong sense of equality. It will seek to remove any barrier to access, progress, participation, achievement and attainment. This vision is at the forefront of every decision made by the academy, and is built on the values of challenge, trust and commitment. In other words, “Every student a leader – every student a graduate.” Ffi: City Academy T: 0117 941 3800 W: www.cityacademy.bristol.sch.uk

CGS Trust is a Bristolbased multi-academy trust formed in 2012 which seeks to provide outstanding education for its pupils. The trust currently comprises one secondary school and sixth form – Colston’s Girls’ School - and four primary schools – Bannerman Road Community Academy, The Dolphin School, Fairlawn Primary School and The Kingfisher School. It has a strategic plan for growth, designed to add strength and expertise to its growing family of schools, directly benefitting its pupils. Each of its schools provides a rich programme of extra-curricular activities in an involving and stimulating physical environment, all with a unique identity and vision, and guided by the trust’s core values of respect, responsibility, curiosity and resilience. Sponsored by the Society of Merchant Venturers, CGS Trust believes that all young people can succeed if they have access to an exceptional education in an empathetic and supportive environment. It is their ambition to provide this for every pupil in their schools.

Marlwood expects . . .

Pirates Ahoy!

James Pope, headteacher of Marlwood School, writes: “Marlwood is an ambitious school with high aspirations for every member of our community. “As a parent, I know the priorities we all have for our children are that they are happy and safe at school; they grow to become confident adults; achieve the best results and qualifications; and are equipped with the skills they need for future success. “Our Vision is ‘Working together for excellence’. We believe that every child is important and that excellence only happens through hard work supported by collaboration and team work. “We achieve excellence through: a curriculum that inspires and challenges; teaching which focuses on all children; developing skills and self-awareness in all our students; an expectation that all of us contribute to our community. “Our covenant with parents or carers is to involve you in the vibrant life of a forward-thinking school. This partnership is boosted by opportunities for collaboration with the Castle School Education Trust. Marlwood has, over 400 years, fostered excellence in children and guided to successful and confident adulthood.”

Whether you’re looking for great pirate entertainment for your child’s next birthday party or swashbuckling games and activities for your primary school, Bristolbased Pirate Attack are guaranteed to deliver. Ideal for kids aged 4 to 7 years, Pirate Attack takes away the stress and instead provides the ‘wow’ factor. Parents have commented: “Such a hit with the children and the parents”, “ Best party ever”, “Fantastic and entertaining”, and “Great value for money”. Teachers have said: “The staff and children enjoyed the day enormously, a big success!”, “The kids had a fantastic time and loved every part of it” and, “Professional, organised and comes highly recommended”. Led by Captain Rocky Cliff your little buccaneers will enjoy pirate dodgeball, making pirate hats or spy-glasses, walk the plank, skittles, quoits, sword-fighting, storytelling and a treasure hunt. You can even hire a pirate bouncy castle and slide. Pirate Attack parties are suitable for most indoor halls.

Ffi: Marlwood School W: www.marlwood.com

Ffi: Pirate Attack T: 0117 939 4311 W: www.pirateattack.co.uk

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news, education & contacts

CGS: “All Young People Can Succeed”

Ffi: CGS Trust W: www.cgstrust.com

PRIMARY TIMES

Parents’ & teachers’

What a show! Perform is a unique type of children’s drama school. Focusing on child development, Perform uses a specially formulated mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s true potential. Small class sizes ensure lots of individual attention by the experienced actor-teachers who focus on developing the four “C”s: confidence, communication, coordination and concentration and having the best fun of the week. From September, Perform 4 to 7s take to the skies with Phileas Fogg for an amazing voyage of discovery ‘Around the World’. Whether learning to ‘Walk like a Wallaby’ in the outback or revealing the legends of the Great Pyramids in Egypt, the new term is a fantastic globetrotting adventure! Meanwhile, the 7 to 12s children work on ‘Ebenezer’, based on Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’. This fun-filled production, complete with rapping ghouls and break-dancing spirits is a guaranteed festive extravaganza. Perform is held in venues across Bristol (including Clifton, Stoke Bishop, Redland and Westburyon-Trym), Bath (Larkhall, Lansdown) and Weston-super-Mare. It offers a noobligation, free trial session. Ffi and to book: T: 0207 255 9120 E: enquiries@perform.org.uk W: www.perform.org.uk

King’s Oak vision King’s Oak Academy is an “allthrough” academy educating students from the age of 4 to 19. Its primary phase opened in September 2015. From September 2016 it has students in Reception and Year 1 as well as secondary students in Years 7 to 13. Primary students are taught in a brand new state-of-the-art building and benefit not only from excellent facilities but from great teaching through a high quality mastery curriculum. The academy’s vision is for students to achieve excellent outcomes in a caring and stimulating learning community built on the core purposes of trust, respect and inspire. King’s Oak’s vision is evident in the work it is undertaking across the school. If you would like your son or daughter to be part of this, then please visit them during one of its open events. Ffi: King’s Oak Academy W: www.kingsoakacademy.org.uk

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210 places available for children from South Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire and Bristol

Open Evening

GHT POSSIBLE

U EVER THOU

THAN YO ACHIEVE MORE

Join us at our Open Evening on Thursday 22nd September 5pm-8pm

Thursday 6 October 6-8pm Headteacher’s address: 6.00pm & 6.45pm

Outstanding extra-curricular opportunities Excellent teaching and learning Unique Sixth Form

Open Mornings

Monday 3 October – Friday 14 October 2016 Please contact us to arrange a visit. Marlwood School: Vattingstone Lane, Alveston, South Gloucestershire BS35 3LA

Proudly sponsored by:

More information: 01454 862525 marlwood.com

www.merchantsacademy.org

MASTERMIND Specialist Subject: Performing Arts Q. Which Performing Arts School can offer regular professional opportunities? Q. Which Performing Arts School only employs a teaching faculty still actively engaged in the professional theatre? Q. Which Performing Arts School can boast a vocal coach with over twelve years of West End experience - including two years as Eponine in Les Mis? Q. Which Performing Arts School can boast a West End Choreographer who includes in her C.V. the national tour of Annie? Q. Which Performing Arts School can boast a Musical Director with many years of experience of both West End and touring productions, plus twenty years as MD at London’s prestigious Italia Conte theatre school?? Q. Which Performing Arts School is directed by a professional Theatre Director, with well over forty years of involvement in the directing of Number One productions in both the West End and provinces? Q. Which Performing Arts School has access to the services of one of the leading technicians of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, plus a sound engineer who counts tours of Billy Elliot and Mary Poppins among his credits? Q. Which Performing Arts School can boast a 100% success rate in over 20 years of entering candidates for major drama and musical theatre examinations? Q. Which Performing Arts School can offer facilities which include an in-house theatre, a large professional wardrobe department, a student/parent coffee bar, and ample car parking? Q. Which Performing Arts School can offer additional classes in both one-to-one and group vocal training, RAD ballet and dance, piano lessons, West-End Workshops, plus regular visiting one-off workshops and performance opportunities?

WELL DONE! TEN PASSES! www.bspa.biz info@bspa.biz

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You don’t need to be a ‘Mastermind’ to know the answer BRISTOL SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS of course Bristol’s oldest and most successful Performing Arts School and Centre for Musical Theatre

0771 44 95373 White Hart Lodge Brislington Hill, Bristol

PRIMARY TIMES

18/08/2016 13:52:13

ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

Animal magic!

New facilities at QEH An exciting new state-ofthe-art facility for Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital (QEH), Bristol, has been officially handed over by contractor Rydon ahead of the new September term. “We are delighted to be moving into our new Science and Art Building,” said Stephen Holliday, QEH headmaster. “The outstanding facilities constructed by Rydon will enable us to continue delivering a first class education for boys and, from September 2017, for girls at Sixth Form level.” QEH has a long tradition of science as an important part of the curriculum, with nearly 70% of its A-level students studying a science subject. The development will enhance science provision by providing three high tech life science laboratories. Art is an expanding area of the curriculum and this project has also created a new ceramics studio, with plenty of light and space to encourage creativity in its students. Prospective parents can tour the new facility at the whole school open morning on Saturday 1 October, 10am to 12noon. Ffi: QEH W: www.qehbristol.co.uk

With the seasons beginning to change at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol, late summer is a great time to watch nature at its best with a host of impressive animals still enjoying the mild weather outside, including African elephants, white rhinos, big cats and spectacled bears. If you haven’t already visited for your own teddy bears’ picnic at the zoo this year, why not get along to see its landscaped Andean Adventure, home to spectacled bear brothers Tupa and Sonco? You won’t be disappointed! The farm always aims to offer a fun visit all day, in all weather – if it’s rainy this month, enjoy the large heated play barns, the perfect place for kids to let off steam. Take the family along today and enjoy 12 exciting adventure play areas at Bristol’s award-winning attraction, given the ‘Certificate of Excellence’ from Trip Advisor for a third year running. For a fantastic family day out, walk beside nature’s giants at Noah’s Ark this season! Ffi: Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm W: www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk

Take the 30 Day Challenge!

The fun doesn’t have to stop when the kids go back to school! Get the new school year off to a swimmingly good start with Everyone Active’s award-winning swim activities. Its comprehensive Learn to Swim programme includes a wide range of activities to help your child start and maintain their aquatic journey. The sessions include rookie lifeguarding, diving, water polo and even synchronised swimming. Lessons run for 50 weeks a year, six days a week and are available to children over the age of four months. In addition, your child can get ‘Wet n’ Wild’ with fun inflatable sessions and you can even make a splash as a family with Family Fun Swim activities. There’s lots available at your local Everyone Active leisure centre.

Getting children to do extra maths outside the classroom can be an outright battle of wills for parents. We all know how hard it can be to get children doing more worksheets, especially when they look suspiciously like homework. The Maths Factor has created the 30 Day Challenge to motivate children and boost their maths skills with 10 to 15 minutes of play and practice daily for 30 days. Don’t worry if that sounds daunting - there are online prizes for managing just 15 days. But any child who does manage a Maths Factor session every day for 30 days receives a real Maths Factor medal in the post. “Zoe has found the 30 day challenges very motivating and it has been heart-warming to watch her progress in maths from struggling and believing she was slow and no good at maths to being confident, fast on her multiplication recall, and believing that she really can do it.” Tanya Markwick parent, May 2016. Try your first month today for £4.99 (RRP £9.99). Visit the Maths Factor website (see below) and use code TMF1M5-PT9 at the checkout.

Ffi and to find your nearest leisure centre W: www.everyoneactive.com

Ffi: The Maths Factor W: www.themathsfactor.com

Back to School, Back to Swimming

PRIMARY TIMES

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Achieving Ambitions Hayesfield Girls’ School provides an inspirational learning environment in which students flourish. The wealth of opportunities offered, both inside and outside the classroom, ensures that all girls experience a strong sense of belonging. The school sets high standards in the work, conduct and appearance of its pupils and has high expectations for all. Students benefit from being educated by talented, and caring professionals. Teachers ensure that all girls make academic and personal progress, reflected in examination success at GCSE and A Level. Hayesfield’s students develop into well-rounded and independent learners by taking on leadership roles across the school and participating in a superb range of extracurricular activities. Being a ‘Hayesfield Girl’ is demanding and challenging, but also an enjoyable and rewarding experience. The girls develop the self-confidence, resilience and moral courage needed to achieve their ambitions. The school’s next Open Evening for prospective students is on Tuesday 20 September from 6pm-8.30pm. It holds an Open Morning from 9am on Friday 23 September and an Open Afternoon on Thursday 13 October from 1.30pm. Ffi: Hayesfield Girls’ School W: www.hayesfield.com

Sofa so good If you are looking for a new sofa or chairs, or want to have your existing furniture reupholstered, contact South West Upholstery. South West Upholstery offers a wide range of services for every application in the upholstery market, from upholstering a household armchair to producing brand new banquette seating for a hotel. They also offer a cushion refilling service and produce handmade furniture under the bespoke ‘Bobbie Burns’ brand, with everything manufactured in Bedminster, Bristol. South West Upholstery really cares about what they do and will work with you to achieve your upholstery vision. Whether this is leather, plain linen cloths, shades of grey, or bright shocking retro colours, you will be sure to find something you love amongst their constantly updated ranges. Visit their Clifton and Bedminster showrooms or follow them on Facebook for inspiration. Ffi: South West Upholstery T: 0117 370 2745 E: info@swupholstery.co.uk W: www.southwestupholstery.co.uk

BACK TO SCHOOL 2016

23/08/2016 09:41:11

ACHIEVEMENT: GOOD TEACHING: GOOD BEHAVIOUR: GOOD LEADERSHIP: GOOD

Bristol Brunel Academy

Open Evening Wednesday, 21 September, 6.00pm - 8.30pm

(Principal presentations at 6.10pm and 7.10pm, last tour of Academy at 7.45pm)

Open Mornings Friday, 23 September Monday, 26 September Tuesday, 27 September 9.00am - 10.30am (Meet the Principal, Mr Jones, throughout the morning) DEEPLY COMMITTED TO HIGH STANDARDS AND STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE Â©LW

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PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 11:58:55

A child’s

best friend Owning a pet can be a hugely rewarding experience for a family. Ellen White explores the do’s and don’ts of choosing the right domestic companion.

ost parents have heard the heartfelt pleas for a pet from their offspring at one stage or another. Whether they’re begging for a puppy or a hamster to cuddle or nurture, children have many reasons to want to add a furry or feathered friend to the family. And children certainly benefit from owning a pet. Behavioural psychologist Dr. Deborah Wells reports in ‘The Independent’ that pet owning children showed higher levels of self-esteem and more advanced cognitive development. Paediatrician James E. Gern has also conducted a number of studies that demonstrate having a pet in the home can lower a child’s likelihood of developing related allergies by up to 33 percent, and that children exposed early on to animals tend to develop stronger immune systems overall. While there are clear advantages to owning a pet, families must consider a whole range of practical and welfare issues before taking the leap. “Do your research before you even set foot in a pet shop,” urges

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Richard Angell of Angell Pets, Gloucester. “Many people think an animal like a goldfish is very easy to look after but it’s more work than you’d think! It’s vital to understand that, when you buy an animal, you’re buying it for its lifetime, including the costs that come with it. Some animals need specialist vet treatment and enclosures, and that’s before you factor in a lifetime of food, bedding and extras such as pet insurance.” Once you’ve evaluated, and decided that you have the time and the finances to support your new commitment, you need to choose a pet that most suits your family and lifestyle. While they’re not called man’s best friend for no reason, dogs are arguably the most time consuming commitment of all popular pet choices. Even the choice of dog has its own challenges and consequences. Do you want to go for a pedigree, a puppy, a mixed breed dog or an animal from a refuge? Other considerations include time and living conditions. “A lot of potential pet owners don’t take

into account how much space they need, especially with dogs,” says Alex Ray from Bristol pet shop Alfie and Bella. “We’ve also had a lot of queries from people who work ‘9 to 5’ and want to leave their pet all day: sadly, with dogs, that just isn’t practical or fair.” It’s vital to choose a breed that fits in with your lifestyle and free time. All dogs need exercise every day, but smaller types such as the French bulldog only require one 15 to 20 minute walk, while a border collie needs around two hours per day to run around. If you’re thinking of buying a pedigree, The Kennel Club website is a good place to start. Meanwhile, animal shelters have an abundance of rescued dogs who need a loving home. “As well as basics such as food, leads and toys, there are other expenses to consider such as injections, vaccinations and flea treatments,” Alex points out. “Our philosophy is that an animal’s diet is just as important as a human’s, so it’s worth doing your research into what ingredients go into the dog food you’re buying.” The UK’s second most popu-

lar pets, cats, tend to be more independent than dogs and are comfortable left alone for far longer periods. However, they can have varying personalities and still require a lot of care and attention. Some need a lot of BACK TO SCHOOL 2016

23/08/2016 09:06:52

A child’s

best friend CONTINUED

companionship, while others are happier being left to their own devices. Consider whether you’d be happy with either. If you want a devoted lap cat and it spends most of the time outside, you may be disappointed. Whether a cat is indoor or outdoor, they still require a litter tray inside, preferably hidden somewhere private, and a regular feeding schedule such as before and after work. They can also breed up to three times a year, so it’s vital to get the females spayed, if you don’t want a litter of kittens on your hands. You may also want to consider neutering a tom

(boy) cat, as they are notorious for leaving smells around the house and getting into fights with other toms. Again, rescue homes will have many felines in need of a loving family if there are no kittens in your area. “All our animals are temperament assessed so we know which ones are suitable to live with children,” says Rachel Jones from Bath Cats and Dogs Home. “We can advise you on who would be a perfect fit for your family.” Aside from the family cat, I gained my very own pet aged 9 in the form of a tiny black and white hamster, and it’s easy to see why they remain very

popular first pets for children. They are relatively inexpensive to keep, don’t take up too much

“Do your research before you even set foot in a pet shop,” Richard Angell, Angell Pets space and keep themselves very clean. Just bear in mind that they are nocturnal so you may not want the cage in anyone’s bedroom as the turn of the hamster wheel can be surprisingly noisy. Richard also recommends rats as an alternative. “Not only are they intelligent, interactive and robust, but their lifespan isn’t too long if you’re worried about children getting bored.” Meanwhile, adds Rachel, “Guinea pigs are great as they are very social and fun. It’s important that they live with other guinea pigs as they are highly sociable animals.” They may not be as cuddly, but birds can still make great pets for children if you choose a suitable type. A canary is a good option for younger children as they don’t require one-on-one playtime, just food, water and cage

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16 Avon Features Back to School 2016.indd 16

cleaning. They are also happy to be solitary and famous for singing, although be aware that only male canaries are known for typical singing behaviours. If children are older or want a more interactive pet then a budgie is a very popular choice. It can be a great best friend if the child takes the time to tame and interact with it, and it’s usually a quiet pet, although some birds chatter quite a bit or even talk. Alongside daily food, water and cage cleaning, budgies need toys and a play gym to explore. Be aware, however, budgies and canaries can live up to 15 years, so there’s still a large time investment to consider. Finally, if you feel ready to add to your family, says Richard, “Please buy from someone who knows what they’re doing: I can’t stress this enough. Beware random online adverts as there’s a chance the animal hasn’t been looked after properly and the advertiser wants to get rid of it quickly.” Once the main pitfalls of choosing a pet have been avoided, says Rachel, “Caring for an animal is a great learning curve. Children and their pets can become the best of friends.” Angell Pets T: 01452 501882 W: www.angellpets.com Alfie and Bella T: 0117 973 8617 W: www.alfieandbella.co.uk Bath Cats and Dogs Home T: 01225 787321 W: www.bathcatsanddogshome. org.uk Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary T: 01275 474719 W: www.hollyhedge.org.uk The Kennel Club W: www.thekennelclub.org.uk The Moggery Rehoming Centre T: 0117 9243128 W: www.themoggeryrehoming centre.co.uk Pets at Home W: www.petsathome.com RSPCA W: www.rspca.org.uk PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 09:12:23

Every Student a Graduate – Every Student a Leader

Join us for our Open Evening on Thursday 6th October 2016, 4.30pm—7pm

Open Mornings also available, 9am—10.30am. Every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday between Tuesday 6th September and Thursday 20th October 2016. P lease check our website for more details www.cityacademy.bristol.sch.uk Follow us on Twitter @_City_Academy

PRIMARY TIMES

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18/08/2016 13:55:33

Adver tising Feature

AUTUMN 2016

24 & 25 SEPTEMBER

Turn back the clock as we remember the importance of the railways in the War effort

ty of locomot ives will be pulling passeng er and freight trains on this special weekend

SPOOKY HALF TERM TRAIN RIDES

0003

OCTOBER

AUTUMN GALA

15 & 16 OC TOBER A varie

25 – 27 & 29 – 30 OCTOBER FREE train rides for children in fancy dress

2031

1940s WEEKEND

October

ren to Another chance for child their travel FREE if they bring teddy Teddy Bear. Plus a family bear trail and craft activities

2036

NIC TEDDY BEARS’ PIC R 18 SEPTEMBE

1940

SEPTEMBER

(All events subject to change or cancellation without prior notice).

DECEMBER Meet Father Christmas aboard his steam train. Each child receives a quality gift

Tel: 0117 932 5538 www.avonvalleyrailway.org Bitton Railway Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6HD

Merchants’ aims for the stars Astronaut Mike Foale with Y8 students

• Mike Foale, the first Briton to walk in space, recently told students at Merchants’ Academy Bristol, “My parents didn’t really think I could become an astronaut.” He went on to explain how he proved his mum and dad wrong by taking part in six Space Shuttle missions, bringing alive the academy’s vision that students can achieve more than they ever thought possible. Many students of all ages have been doing just that, including three sixth-formers who are currently preparing for a visit to Japan to participate in a Young Scientists Workshop. Students in Merchants’ Academy Primary have been working closely with volunteers from Computershare – through the business and education charity Ablaze - to improve their reading and maths. They have also been working with the new Into University South Bristol and Bristol’s One Tree Per Child initiative. Merchants’ Academy, with the support of its sponsors, the Society of Merchant Venturers and the University of Bristol, runs an unrivalled co-curricular programme to provide students with opportunities in and beyond their lessons, such as Army Cadets, Duke of Edinburgh Award and Future Brunels. Music is another highlight at Merchants’ Academy, recently named School Music Department of the Year in a national contest. Earlier this year the academy staged its first all-age theatre production, Aladdin, with enormous success. Performance is one way of building confidence: opportunities to meet and talk with people from academic and industry backgrounds is another. These are elements the new executive principal of Merchants’ Academy Trust, Dr Hilary Macaulay, actively encourages. Ffi: Merchants’ Academy W: www.merchantsacademy.org

Adver tising Feature

Let the wild rumpus begin! • Looking for an awesome, active, adventurous birthday party? Then check out what Mojo Active can offer. Young and old will have an unforgettable celebration in the 140 acres of private fields and woodland at Mojo Active, located five minutes from Bristol’s Cribbs Causeway. Choose a combination of outdoor fun activities including the assault course scramble, high ropes adventure, the spooky tunnel maze, the mind boggling low ropes, the climbing wall conquest, or battle mayhem with archery tag or the hilarious zorb football. The highly trained military instructors will ensure everyone has a fantastic time and they’ll adjust the activity to suit different ability levels. Most activities are suitable for children aged 7 plus but they can run alternative activities for children over 4. Mojo Active also tailors parties to suit a theme or incorporate a child’s favourite sport and offers various party tea options if required. And for those milestone adult birthdays, why not try the Mojo Adventure Challenge: an adrenaline-pumping, ‘I’m a Celebrity’style adventure that will test the patience, teamwork, communication and skill of family and friends? Teams will need a combination of brain and muscle power to uncover the codes, find the keys and complete the tasks to finish the challenge. And to top the day off, why not enjoy one of the various catering options available with a few celebratory drinks? Turning another year older couldn’t be more fun with Mojo Active parties. Ffi: Mojo Active T: 01454 660075 W: www.mojoactive.co.uk.

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PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 16:03:41

Adver tising Feature

“Making Lab” opens FHS possibilities • Students at Fairfield High School will soon be literally at the cutting edge of digital technology. The secondary school in Horfield, Bristol, has won a £35,000 grant from independent science charity the Wolfson Foundation to install a Making Lab, where students can create “almost anything”. For the first time, they will be able to design products on computers and then build them using digital fabrication technology. There will be a particular emphasis on robots and electronic devices. The new design studio and lab, which will be ready for use in September, opens up many possibilities for further development of GCSE courses in engineering, computer science, science, fine art, graphics and photography. Local primary schools will also be able to benefit from the improved facilities and it is hoped that, in time, the project might be upgraded to a public access “Fab Lab”. Assistant principal Vanetta Spence says the introduction of the CAD/CAM (computer aided design/computer aided manufacturing) technology and the digitally controlled machines and tools is very exciting for the school. “Up to now, our engineering students have been able to design products but not see them through to fabrication,” she says. “This also allows us to take computer science out of the abstract. Students can use their coding expertise to create simple robotic systems right down to the circuit boards. We believe the lab will attract more students to these courses, giving them a competitive edge when seeking apprenticeships, further and higher education and jobs. It will put us at the forefront of digital fabrication in schools.” Ffi: Fairfield High School W: www.fairfield.bristol.sch.uk

Adver tising Feature

Nailsea School ASPIRE | BELIEVE | SUCCEED

At Nailsea School we don’t leave anyone on the bench...

...we play the whole team.

ASPIRE BELIEVE SUCCEED

OPEN EVENING Thursday 22 September 6.00pm—8.30pm Presentations by the Headteacher and current pupils 6.45pm and 7.30pm “Nailsea school students are well-prepared for life in modern Britain...Nailsea School is a GOOD school.” Ofsted 2015 01275 852251 | nailseaschool.com | info@nailseaschool.com Nailsea School Mizzymead Road Nailsea BS48 2HN (FOR SAT. NAV. USE BS48 2LE)

Visit Oasis Academy Brislington

Head for heights New Nailsea School headteacher has high aspirations for all • From September 2016 Nailsea School will have a new headteacher at the helm. Mrs Elliot (pictured), who has been working at the school as deputy headteacher for two years, is delighted to be leading the way in this new phase of the community-based school. As deputy headteacher, Mrs Elliot (née Miss Heal) was responsible for leading teaching and learning at the school and created some exciting new initiatives relating to preparing students for their exams, staff training, the way that homework is managed and celebrating success. These ideas have now become fully embedded within the school and are making a great deal of impact on the learning and progress of students. Mrs Elliot has stated that she will not apologise for having high expectations of all students and for maintaining high standards. In return she promises that all students and their parents will receive the highest possible standard of teaching and pastoral support in order to achieve the greatest progress for every individual. “I really love my job because there is nothing better than helping young people to work hard and achieve things they may not have thought possible,” said Mrs Elliot in a letter to all new Year 7s. A Year 9 student at the school commented, “Mrs Elliot is going to make an excellent headteacher as she always does what she says she will do,” which demonstrates the confidence felt by students and staff in Mrs Elliot’s appointment. Ffi: Nailsea School W: www.nailseaschool.com

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Open Evening Thursday September 22 5.30-8pm (Principal’s Address 6pm)

Open Mornings September 26, 27 and 28 9.30-11am By appointment (call 0117 377 2055 ) Saturday October 1 11am-1pm Tel: 0117 377 2055 | Hungerford Rd, Brislington, Bristol, BS4 5EY | oasisacademybrislington.org

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23/08/2016 10:00:21

Adver tising Feature

Colston’s Olympian values

OPEN EVENING

• The Olympics games inspired everyone this summer and reinforced so much of what Colston’s School tries to achieve with its students. The school works hard to help its students become the best version of themselves that they can be, which mirrors well the Olympic motto “Faster, Higher, Stronger”. Colston’s applies this to academic work, to music, to drama and, of course, to sport. Where extracurricular activity is concerned, a flexible and supportive approach to school life is required and the school treats all its students as individuals. It recognises that, like Olympic vests, one size does not fit all. Amongst the current boys and girls Colston’s boasts national and internationally ranked athletes in tennis, judo, taekwondo and gymnastics, as well as many club, district, county and representative players in all the major team sports. Of course, terrific sporting facilities are required to support these youngsters: last year the school added a dance and fitness studio to the impressive array of on-site facilities and this summer it resurfaced the six tennis courts. But so, too, is an absolute understanding that there is more to life than academic work. Yes, Colstonians will get great GCSE and A Level grades but the school judges each individual by their own standards. Have they gone faster, higher and stronger? Gold, silver or bronze - as long as they have put in the hard work, whichever medal they achieve the school applauds their efforts.

Wednesday 21st September 6pm

11-18 Foundation Comprehensive (220 in Sixth Form)

Excellent results at GCSE & A Level Pastoral care is extremely strong...The relationships between teachers and students are strong and this results in high expectations for students’ achievement. - Ofsted 2015

Chew Lane, Chew Magna, Bristol, BS40 8QB 01275 332272 www.chewvalleyschool.co.uk

Ffi: Colston’s School W: www.colstons.org

Adver tising Feature

Family

What a dramatic year - so far!

7-16 October 2016 Box Office 01242 850270 cheltenhamfestivals.com #cheltlitfest

• Bristol School of Performing Arts (BSPA) is currently enjoying its most successful year in its 50 year history. Constant upgrading in the technical department of its in-house Hart Theatre has allowed students to perform to an increasingly high standard, while recent professional successes have only served to further enhance the growing reputation of this renowned West Country performing arts academy. BSPA has a further reason to be proud thanks to its recent LAMDA Drama and Musical Theatre exam results, which notched up a 100% overall pass rate, most attaining a pass with distinction and 20% achieving maximum marks. Forthcoming professional involvement looks equally exciting, with students involved with the Hippodrome productions of ‘Aladdin with Torvill & Dean’, ‘Evita’, and ‘Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’. Following the run of ‘Joseph’ in Bristol, BSPA re-joins the cast for a further week in Cardiff. The school prides itself on its fully professional Londonsourced teaching faculty, whose team travels to Bristol each week to teach at White Hart Lodge, Brislington, offering instruction and industry contacts equal to - and above - any recognised London drama school. Why go to London when the best is on your doorstep? In September, BSPA starts its association with the performing arts course at St Brendon’s Sixth Form College: even more reason to “look local” when making any arrangements to study Performing Arts on a full time basis. So why not make a dramatic move, and join BSPA on its exciting journey! Ages from 2 years to 102 years.

Tickets on public sale 7 September at

cheltenhamfestivals.com/ literature Featuring: David Baddiel, Julian Clary, Babette Cole, Elmer, Chris Haughton, Jane Hissey, Abie Longstaff, Sarah J. Maas, Maisy, Simon Mayo, Chris Riddell, Katherine Rundell, Nick Sharratt, David Solomons, Robin Stevens, Dan TDM, Jacqueline Wilson Charity Number: 251765

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PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 10:01:14

Adver tising Feature

Something Spookley this way comes • For a new wholesome family experience this autumn, get along to the Spookley Pumpkin Festival at Farrington’s Farm Shop. Pick from thousands of home-grown pumpkins from their pumpkin patch field, carve Spookley shapes and try some seasonal pumpkin dishes. Or cosy up and listen to the heart-warming story of Spookley, the square shaped pumpkin. Supporting the national anti-bullying week, Spookley tells the story of a square pumpkin who lives in a pumpkin patch with a crop of round pumpkins. His appearance leads to him being bullied by the other vegetables because he is a different shape. Our hero eventually saves the day and befriends the other pumpkins, in a tale that helps children to accept differences in people and to talk about their own concerns in a positive way. The Farrington’s Spookley pumpkin festival takes place at Farrington’s Farm Shop over the weekend of Sat 15 and Sun 16 Oct and the half term week from Fri 21 to Mon 31 Oct. It is one of a number of Spookley festivals taking place across the UK this autumn, but the only one in the South West outside Devon and Cornwall. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the Pumpkin Express and take a look around the charming shopping village and farm shop, packed full of seasonal produce and hundreds of home-made products. The Café and Farm Shop serve a variety of pumpkin and autumn recipes, perfect for warming up on a cold autumn day. And, once the children are all pumpkin-ned out, they can let off some steam in the playbarn while parents relax with a coffee. Ffi: Farrington’s Farm Shop T: 01761 452266 (opt 3.) W: www.farringtons.co.uk/events

Adver tising Feature

High ambitions • If you are looking at schools for your child this autumn, Redmaids’ High School must surely be on your list. The new school, created through the merger of two much-loved schools – Redland High and Red Maids’ - offers a fresh, forward-looking vision of education. Both schools’ students already enjoy high levels of academic success. But the opportunities for enhanced learning as a student at Redmaids’ High are extensive: • leadership - the girls learn to represent their peers through the school council or as a form leader • personal enrichment - they uncover new talents and passions through a wide range of extra-curricular activities and life-enhancing experiences • citizenship – they learn about connecting with the wider community and their role within it • university and beyond – Redmaids’ High students are destined to achieve places at world-ranked universities and forge important careers. Headmistress of Redmaids’ High School, Isabel Tobias (pictured), says, “Our two schools share a common belief in all-girls education and developing strong, confident young women who will go out and make their mark on the world. “We provide the best opportunities for academically able girls, and are the only school in Bristol to offer the choice of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma programme or A Levels in the Sixth Form.” Red Maids’ current 12-acre green site at Westbury-on-Trym will be home to the combined school from September 2017. Significant scholarships and bursaries are awarded, enabling local girls from all backgrounds to benefit from the outstanding education on offer. Redmaids’ High Open Morning: Sat 24 Sep, from 9.30am. Ffi and to book: Redmaids’ High W: www.redmaidshigh.co.uk/admissions

PRIMARY TIMES

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PRESENTS

Spookley Pumpkin Festival! Sat 15th and Sun 16th October Fri 21st to Mon 31st October Pick Your Own Pumpkin Carving and decorating Meet Spookley the square pumpkin Make a Spookley scarecrow Ride on the Pumpkin Express!

Open 7 days a week Just off the A362, Farrington Gurney For full details of all these events and more visit our website and social media pages ©LW

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BACK TO SCHOOL 2016 41

23/08/2016 10:06:35

Hello Kids!

Our friends at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm enjoyed your last set of pictures so much that they are offering a free family ticket to three lucky winners of my next art competition. The subject is Animals and People, so send me your paintings or drawings about any of the different ways animals work, play or live with us humans. It can be any type of animal you like, from pets and farm animals to wildlife. So get your crayons out and send me your pictures to: Arty Barty, Primary Times, 1 Temple Way, Bristol, BS2 0BY, or email high resolution jpegs to my editor at: mike.gartside@localworld. co.uk Don’t forget to give me your name, age, full home postal address and the name of your school. Deadline: Monday 12 September. Have fun!

Arty NB. Please see T&Cs at primarytimes.net/ avon/home-intro/tcs

Arty Barty Your ideas for useful robots were so inventive, it was very hard to choose the best pictures. Congratulations to the three winners who each receive a family ticket to At Bristol. 7, Richard Hancock, imary Corsham Regis Prhire Academy, Wilts rson “Help!” says the pe wave nt in the sea as a gia Luckily looms over them. guard Richard’s robot lifethe day is on hand to saveety ring with a special saf hands. and robot glowing des of The different sha d for use blue Richard has d with the sea contraste e this sur en ot rob the red ght and picture is very bri colourful.

WINNER! Harikesh Rajanikanth, 6, Field Court C of E Infant Academy, Gloucester Regular contributor Harikesh has drawn a robot building another robot! I love the way their brightly coloured buttons stand out against the grey.

Aurelia

Amaris Messenger, 8, St Lawrence C of E Primary, Lechlade Amaris’s ‘Sleep Tight’ robot looks so friendly and inviting with his stripy pyjamas and twinkly, star-shaped head. His very important job is to put you to bed and read stories, so your parents can get on with other important work, she says.

Oliver Messenger, 6, St Lawrence C of E Primary, Lec Oliver has chosen one hlade jobs of all with his doc of the most vital and white cross on his tor robot. The red chest really stands out, as do all his red colo ured wires and antennae. Great job, Oliv er!

fford Bristol 8, St Michaels, Stoke Gi usehold robot. Aurelia e ho Meet Handy Harry th ways he can help, with y an m ols has thought of so ting and different to in pa r fo s m ar hy tc stre eyes. anime style cartoon for hands. I like his Isabella Burrows, 6, Town Lane Academy, West This is Ruby the Rob Bristol important job is being ot. Her clock, making sure Isaban alarm ella gets up in time for school morning. She’s cleverlyin the Ruby’s body out of foil made , very realistic robot loofor a k.

WINNER!

ary School, Weston-super-Mare Nicholas Nikiforou, 9, Locking Prim re - Nicholas’s robot looks like a Wow! There’s loads going on this pictu to fly, and a tail that looks like packs jet with lete fearsome dragon, comp and black head and the added red ng striki n’s drago the like I a useful tool. in the foreground. details like the robot making factory

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16 Avon Books & Arty Barty Back to School 2016.indd 34

WINNER!

Momoka Foster, 8, Elmlea Junior School, Bristol Momoka has drawn a lovely, detailed picture showing each stage of making robot medicine, from getting the bottles to putting on the lids. I’m sure it will come in handy when fellow robots get sick. PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 10:09:13

Primary Times reviews the new releases.

Delightfully cursed A

s a huge Harry Potter fan, I greeted the release of ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ with anticipation. Presenting the story in play format, J.K. Rowling and her colleagues John Tiffany and Jack Thorne encapsulate what so many people fell in love with in the original Harry Potters, and bring a fresh perspective to the series. ‘Cursed Child’ deals with traditional Potter themes including friendship and family, but introduces our characters to new challenges such as overcoming past prejudices. In the developing relationship between Harry and his son, Albus, we discover that the latter does not share his father’s fondness for the old school, Hogwarts, and is rubbish at Quidditch. It’s a delight to meet our old heroes Harry, Ron and Hermione, now middle-aged, while the new characters are a highlight of the play. As well as Albus, fresh faces include Scorpius, Draco’s son, who is unexpectedly witty and nerdy, plus Rose, Hermione and Ron’s daughter, who’s as brilliant as her mother but harbours preconceived grudges. This new chapter in the Harry Potter story does not disappoint established readers like me, and is sure to win over new fans. (Caitlin Gartside) Harry Potter and the Cursed Child J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany & Jack Thorne, £20, Little, Brown, www.littlebrown.co.uk

Discovering art

Say AA! The summer holidays may have drawn to a close but parents are always grateful for children’s entertainment ideas on long car journeys at any time of year. The AA comes to the rescue with two paperbacks packed full of games, puzzles, facts and more. First up is ‘100 Things to Do on a Car Journey’, a compact, travel sized book with everything from word searches, mazes, crosswords, and space to doodle your own drawings. ‘The Sticker Atlas’ provides a fun way to learn about Britain, with interesting facts about each area and over 200 multiple choice quiz questions to test your knowledge. It’s unlikely families will have the time or resources to travel the length and breadth of the entire UK, as this tome seems to suggest, but children will have fun placing the landmark stickers on the maps, and you just might gain some inspiration for your next holiday. (Ellen White) 100 Things to Do on a Car Journey Sam Smith, £5.99, Sticker and Quiz Atlas of Britain Stephanie Turnbull, £6.99, both published by Usborne Books, www.usborne.com

Unlikely friends

Tracing 40,000 years of art, from prehistoric cave paintings to the present day, this illustrated collection of short stories blends fiction, history and art in one sturdy hardback tome. The book really is a joy to read and very accessible; you could start at the beginning and trace the history of art chronologically, or dip in and out as you feel, and learn about Vincent Van Gogh one day and Ancient Chinese artists the next. The art featured spans both geography and genre, from Leonardo da Vinci and Frida Kahlo to Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai. Author Michael Bird incorporates real-life facts about artists’ lives and techniques into each story, and every page is richly illustrated either with Kate Evans’ watercolours or photographs of the artists’ work. At £19.95 it’s on the pricier side, but it’s such high quality it would make a lovely gift for any child with an interest in art, history or both. (Ellen White) Vincent’s Starry Night and Other Stories by Michael Bird, illustrated by Kate Evans, £19.95, Laurence King Publishing, www.laurenceking.com

From console to page

Thirteen year old Davy David is an orphan, who lives in the bushes of a town ruled by strict minister, Reverend Fall. A talented artist, Davy loves to draw pictures of angels in the dirt, in the early hours of the morning before the townspeople are awake. When a stray dog turns Davy’s life upside down just before Christmas, it sets in motion a chain of events leading them to the house of elderly recluse, and rumoured witch, Miss Flint. She has planned one more trip before her time is up and hires the reluctant Davy and George to escort her. The unlikely friendship between Davy and Miss Flint is genuinely touching, and the characters are sympathetic and well-rounded, ensuring that the reader cares about their journey. Young sensitively handles the themes of death, loss and life’s regrets, raising some delicate issues in a story better suited to older children. (Ellen White)

In an unusual publishing twist, this must be one of the first ever children’s novels to be based on an existing video game; both book and game by programmer Brian Hastings. The fisherman father of 12-year-old Merryn lives with his daughter in a cottage by the sea, braving the fearsome waves on a daily basis, returning home for dinner. But one stormy evening he doesn’t come back. Determined to rescue him, Merryn builds a tiny submarine and embarks on a journey through the undersea worlds she’s only previously heard about in her father’s lullabies. The book ties in nicely with its console namesake, but there’s certainly no obligation to own both to enjoy the story. Chapters are an easily-digestible length for children starting to read alone, and there’s a black and white illustration at the start of each chapter to add detail to the magical world Hastings has created. Merryn is a great protagonist, born out of a desire, Hastings says, to create a hero for his daughter to look up to. It’s nice to see a female-led adventure story, but the point isn’t laboured so there should be plenty for both boys and girls to enjoy.

The Road to Ever After by Moira Young, £8.99, Macmillan Children’s Books, www.macmillan.com

Song of the Deep by Brian Hastings, $12.95 (£9.99), Sterling Children’s Books, www.sterlingpublishing.com

PRIMARY TIMES

16 Avon Books & Arty Barty Back to School 2016.indd 35

BACK TO SCHOOL 2016

23/08/2016 10:09:53

With tooth decay among children still a major health worry, Anne Marie Scanlon reports on how to make sure your child keeps their gleaming smile.

Keeping them A debate in Parliament earlier this year revealed that dental decay is the primary reason why children aged 5 to 9 are admitted to hospital in the UK. Public Health England (PHE) divulged that 25,812 children in a 12 month period from 2013 to 2014 had a primary diagnoses of tooth decay. While that’s a shocking statistic it’s even more concerning when you realise that dental caries (decay) is almost entirely preventable. Public Health England also stated that almost half of all the UK’s 8 year olds suffer from tooth decay. The fact that it is the most common chronic condition in the US’s children, is no consolation. Tooth decay is caused by plaque. Plaque is formed when bacteria already present in the mouth combine with small food particles and saliva to become a sticky substance covering the teeth. When not removed, plaque erodes the outer layers (enamel) of the tooth. One of the main reasons for the increase in dental decay in both Britain and America is the increased consumption of sugar. In January 2016 British health officials revealed

Taking children to the dentist at an early age accustoms them to the environment.

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16 Avon Features Back to School 2016.indd 18

that the average 5 year old in the UK was consuming their own body weight in sugar annually. Most children in the UK are ingesting three times the recommended daily intake of sugar (see official guidelines below). Sugar is easily recognisable. Or is it? Cakes, jam, biscuits and chocolate are all full of sugar. Fizzy drinks are packed with it. Many parents rightly avoid all of these sugary treats and replace them with healthy alternatives such as fruit, fruit juice and smoothies. Unfortunately, these alternatives are not as healthy as they appear – fruit juice is high in sugar, as are smoothies. (Fruit juice and fizzy drinks are the largest source of sugar for children aged 4 to 18). Fresh fruit, while definitely a healthy alternative to confectionary, should be carefully monitored. Dried fruit, such as raisins, are a popular snack because they’re ‘healthy’ but their sugar content is such that your child may as well be eating a chocolate bar. Keep an eye on ingredients labels for anything ending in ‘ose’ such as fructose, glucose, lactose and sucrose –

clean!

they’re all sugar. If left untreated tooth decay can lead to cavities (holes in the teeth), gum disease or abscesses. Also, untreated tooth decay may lead to loss of teeth either through extraction or rotting. PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE

The good news is that tooth decay is almost entirely preventable and you don’t need to invest a great deal of time or money in that prevention. Dentists will tell you that as soon as a baby’s first tooth appears parents should start to brush it. Easier said than done in many cases but part of the reason for this is to get your child used to a toothbrush. Similarly, you need to get your child to become familiar with the dentist early on so there is no unnecessary fear attached when they go for a check up, or a procedure. Many children have a fear of dentists because “everybody” is afraid of the dentist. Don’t give in to these stereotypes, they come from a bygone age when teeth were routinely pulled and painkillers were unsophisticated. Bring your child to your own dental appointments when they are small so they become familiar with the environment, the instruments and the staff, which will help reduce or even eliminate any anxiety they have about their own visits. (Obviously if you are scared stiff of your dentist then don’t. It will just pass the fear along.) Permanent adult teeth usually start to appear around age 6 and should all be in place by age 13, although different children develop at different rates. By age 6 your child should be in the habit of brushing their teeth twice a day.

You don’t even need to buy that ‘special’ children’s toothpaste – as long as there are sufficient quantities of fluoride in the family toothpaste, everyone can use it. Children will, however, need a ‘special’ toothbrush. Get one with a small head and soft bristles. Use small circular movements and do one tooth at a time. Brush the back of the teeth gently towards and over the gums. You and your child should spend approximately two minutes brushing the teeth, at bedtime and at least one other time during the day. You can also buy plaque disclosing tablets which highlight plaque and mean your child has to keep brushing until all the plaque is gone. Your child should be able to brush their teeth unsupervised by the age of 7. Don’t forget to replace your child’s toothbrush (and your own) at regular intervals. British Dental Foundation W: www.dentalhealth.org Fun games ideas to help good dental hygiene W: www.healthyteeth.org

RECOMMENDED DAILY SUGAR ALLOWANCE Age 4-6 19g (5 sugar cubes) Age 7-10 24g (6 sugar cubes) Age 11+ 30g (7 sugar cubes) SIGNS OF TOOTH DECAY Toothache – a pain which can be mild to severe. Sensitivity – especially to hot or cold food and beverages. Bad breath. A ‘funny’ taste in the mouth.

PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 09:13:38

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23/08/2016 11:50:44

SWEEPING BEACHES RAISE DOUGH!

reat Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity is calling on parents and children to get baking and help raise vital funds. Bake it Better Week runs nationwide from Mon 17 to Sun 23 October and is open to all bakers, from amateurs to master chef professionals. Now in its sixth year, all money raised will help Great Ormond Street Hospital provide world-class care for young patients and their families. Your contribution could help rebuild the hospital, support groundbreaking research, fund the most up-to-date equipment or provide accommodation and other support services for children and their families. “The great thing about Bake it Better is that everyone can get involved - whether it’s at school, in the office or at home,” says Laura Savory, head of community fundraising at Great Ormond Street Children’s Charity. “Every bake sale, no matter how big or

how small, will help us make a real difference for so many seriously ill young patients and their families from across the UK.” Fundraising kits are available from the website, jam-packed full of bunting, cake toppers, posters, celebrity and patient recipes, baking themed games, stickers and top tips to ensure every bake sale is a sweet success. Ffi: Bake it better W: www.bakeitbetter.org.

he UK’s leading marine charity, the Marine Conservation Society (MCS), is offering volunteers the chance to spend the day at the beach…all for a great cause. Its annual ‘Great British Beach Clean’ is back, running from Fri 16 to Mon 19 Sep on beaches in the South West and nationwide. It’s the only UK-wide beach clean that not only spruces up hundreds of beaches around the coast, but records the litter finds as well, as part of a global beach clean count. According to the charity, there was a shocking 34% rise in beach litter between 2014 and 2015, with tiny bits of plastic and polystyrene the most frequently found litter items on UK beaches last year. “Beach litter has steadily risen over the two decades we’ve recorded it on UK beaches,” says MCS beachwatch manager, Lauren Eyles. “In fact we saw some of the highest litter levels ever last year

with 3,298 items picked up per kilometre we surveyed. Last year’s Great British Beach Clean attracted 6,035 volunteers cleaning 340 beaches - the most in our 22 year history of running clean-ups.” Those in the South West can join in with the clean at Sand Bay South (16 Sep, 10am), with many more events further afield from Dorset to Cornwall. MCS says cleaning and surveying a beach only takes a couple of hours, and each beach has a coordinator on hand to explain how to fill out the simple data form. “Beach litter is a serious environmental problem,” says Eyles. “But the solution is in our hands.” Details of all the beaches involved are on the MCS website. Ffi: The Great British Beach Clean W: www.mcsuk.org/great britishbeachclean

SPOTTING PUDSEY

BC Children in Need has launched its 2016 fundraising appeal, the Big Spotacular. In partnership with Lloyds Bank, nurseries, schools and colleges across the UK will be going spotty for the charity by dressing in spots, selling spotty cakes and taking part in spotty themed challenges to raise money. Building on last year’s campaign, students learn about the cause the charity supports while they raise money to make a difference to the lives of disadvantaged children and young people in the UK. The 2015 campaign saw over 15,500 schools and millions of

BACK TO SCHOOL 2016

16 Avon Features Back to School 2016.indd 20

children taking part. Research conducted by Future Thinking found that teachers felt the programme had a positive impact on children’s skills development, especially teamwork (96%), communication (96%) and confidence (94%). Stuart Beaver of Lloyds Banking Group says, “Handing the fundraising planning over to the children was a great success last year, and I cannot wait to see what spotty ideas they come up with across the country to raise money this year.” The iconic BBC Children in Need mascot will be travelling throughout the UK armed with merchandise to help schools kick-off their fundraising. Request a Spotacular fundraising kit before Fri 16 Sep and you may be in with a chance for a visit from Pudsey Bear himself. Ffi: BBC Children in Need Big Spotacular W: www.bbc childreninneed.co.uk/schools

OUTDOOR SAFETY

he UK’s best known map maker, Ordnance Survey, has teamed up with adventurer and TV presenter Steve Backshall to produce top tips for keeping safe in the great outdoors. The #GetOutside campaign includes a short safety video recorded by Steve (available on Youtube), encouraging children and families to follow seven simple safety steps before they step outside. The advice covers sun protection, water safety, road safety, stranger danger, bugs and bites, staying hydrated and maps and apps. While the holidays are over, the tips still apply to any late summer or autumn excursions you may be planning. “Keep yourself safe by knowing how to read a map and always

carry one with you,” says Steve, “It really could save your life. Map apps (such as OS Maps) are great, but always carry a paper map too: their battery doesn’t run out.” The tips also recommend re-familiarising yourself with the Highway Code, as well as the Green Cross Code for children. The Ordnance Survey website lists plenty of walking festivals throughout September and October in the South West, including events in Bradford on Avon (Fri 2 Sep), Wellington (Mon 12 Sep) and Dursley (Thu 6 Oct). So grab some sturdy boots and a map and #GetOutside! Ffi: #GetOutside W: www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/ getoutside

PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 09:14:50

Open Evening: Wednesday 14th September 6:30pm-8.00pm Open Mornings: Wednesday 21st September Tuesday 27th September Thursday 6th October 9.00am-11.00am

Open Evening: Thursday 13th October 2016 7.00pm-8.00pm Open Mornings: Monday 17th October Tuesday 18th October 9:00am-10.00am

Â©LW

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18/08/2016 14:00:05

“...excellence in all it does within and beyond the classroom...” ISI Inspection Report, October 2015

Whole School

Open Morning

re ntu e v Ad

Thursday 10 November 2016 10.00am–12.00noon Academic, Creative and Performing Arts, and Sport Scholarships are available for entry into Year 7, Year 9 and

Lower Sixth, in addition to means-tested bursary awards.

Daily Visits and Taster Days To book your place or to request further information, please call Hollie Matthews on 0117 933 9885 or e-mail

Fri en

available on various dates during term-time.

s hip s d

admissions@bgs.bristol.sch.uk.

Learning

Infant and Junior Sch Prospectus

Life changing

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18/08/2016 13:57:50