Avon Easter 2016

in Avon Issue 196 24 March-26 May 2016

Also Easter egg hunts Spring food Family holidays abroad

autism

Understanding

Download the new Primary Times app, free! Page 3

World Autism Awareness Day this April highlights ways parents can develop the social skills of children with the condition. Page 4.

Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

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INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR BOYS 7–18 FOUNDED 1590

Senior Open Morning Friday 22 April 9.30am –12noon Headmaster’s Talk 9.30am Contact Mrs Carolyn Matthews 0117 930 3068 www.qehbristol.co.uk 2

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EASTER 2016

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Autism has long been a source of both sadness and wonder. Children with the condition find it hard to empathise with others yet some possess remarkable abilities, inspiring books and films. Our feature (P4) looks at ways of helping kids on the autistic spectrum engage with the world.

Elsewhere, as Easter looms, there are few things more pressing on a child’s mind than . . . chocolate. We plant our feet firmly either side of the fence by looking at the perfect Easter egg hunt on one hand (P6), while trying to steer families towards the range of healthy seasonal food now available (Spring Greens, P21) on the other. Whichever you opt for, there’s sure to be a nearby foodie event for you this year.

THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P13 PINBOARD P27 ADVERTISING FEATURES P30 PUPILS’ PAGE P34 CLASSIFIEDS P37 GETTING WARMER P6 How to plan the perfect Easter Egg hunt.

SPRING GREENS P21 Ellen White discovers the West’s amazing range of food and foodie events.

COME FLY WITH ME P36 the editor

Avon iin A

Issue 196 May 2016 24 March-26

Families’ options on overseas breaks.

Also hunts Easter egg Spring foodays Family holid abroad

autism ding

Understan

Download the new Primary Times app, 3 free! Page

April ss Day thislop the social sm Awarene 4. nts can deve World Auti ways pare the condition. Page highlights ren with skills of child

Theatre

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

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Commercial director

Advertising

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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 Meloney Rodney-Nguéma meloney.rodney@localworld.co.uk 0117 934 3076 Juliet Hobbs 01242 278053 juliet.hobbs@localworld.co.uk Cath Evans, Mike Gartside Emma Gorton, Ruth Wood Ellen White 0117 934 3000

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.

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Find these amazing offers this issue!

Noah’s Ark - Two for one entry Bristol Aquarium - Kids go free A baby shark at Bristol

Aquarium

Foyles – Half price book EASTER 2016

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autism Understanding

Bluebells by Iris Grace

World Autism Awareness Day this April highlights the ways parents can develop social skills of children with the condition. Alice Freeman reports.

A

utism spectrum disorder Iris Grace at work (ASD) isn’t rare. In fact the National Autistic Society (NAS) reports that at least 700,000 people in the UK have the lifelong condition which affects how you communicate, interact and relate to other people. The chances are that most of us will encounter children with ASD at home, in the playground and on the street on a regular basis. But, as the term “spectrum” suggests, no two cases of autism are the same, so how do we understand what it’s like for children living with the condition, and help them make sense of the world?

World Autism Awareness Day on Saturday 2 April aims to provide some answers to that question.

ASD children develop are often Research suggests that the something to be encouraged. causes of autism are genetic.

One much vaunted attribute Although there is currently no some people with autism have ‘cure’, funding and research is the ability to remember facts means we now have a better and data, a central feature of the understanding of how the disorder Hollywood movie ‘The Rain Man’. works, including how the activities But not all ASD children have the of ASD children can be used to card-counting ability to win you improve their social awareness. the casino jackpot. When they The special interests that say there are different strokes for different folks, for some it’s brush strokes.

Take 6-year-old Iris Grace who was diagnosed with Autism in 2011. She is now a Monet-inthe-making since her mother, Arabella Carter-Johnson, nurtured Iris’s interest in painting, resulting in a considerable improvement in her social skills.

“Iris’s painting was a key into her world,” says Arabella, who has published a book about her experiences. “Painting was a wonderful way for her to release her emotions, for her to practise certain social skills with me and to build her confidence. She loved showing us details of her paintings and she changed quite dramatically.”

She points out that other children may have a fascination with buttons or watering cans.

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“They may seem trivial and meaningless to us but these passions can be incredibly valuable as we try to connect with our children on the spectrum,” she says.

The NAS recommends many activities to aid learning and development of autistic children, which can take place at school or in free time. The society is optimistic that this year’s World Autism Awareness Day will boost its fundraising for such projects, following last year, when it raised over £235,000 to help autistic people and their families across the UK. To help people get involved, the NAS provides general information and fundraising ideas with downloadable packs via its website. It also has local support branches with advice for diagnosis and support services in Avon.

In spite of all the good work so far, NAS research has found that “Eighty-seven per cent of autistic people and their families say they still don’t think the public understand autism in a meaningful way.” This is something they are hoping to change with the launch of their latest campaign.

If you want to get involved with World Autism Awareness Day and World Autism Awareness Week (Sat 2–Fri 8 Apr), there are plenty of autism-friendly activities and places to visit around Avon. So have fun and get those creative juices flowing!

Graffiti Stars is a UK-wide service allowing class groups or birthday parties to earn their ‘street cred’. A talented DBSchecked spray-can artist will help you to create bold and colourful designs. Banksy, eat your heart out!

Hop Skip and Jump in Bristol will make you want to…well, hop skip and jump! These “specialists in complex care” offer a range of indoor and outdoor activities and facilities, including forts and castles ready to be conquered by knights in shining armour.

Avon Riding Centre provides horse-riding lessons for around 280 disabled visitors each year.

Book now to join the waiting list.

Life Cycle is a charity that helps people to “unlock the benefits of cycling”. As well as pre-loved recycled bikes, they also offer a tandem service for disabled young people — perfect for exploring the Avon countryside.

Avon Riding Centre W: www.avonridingcentre.org.uk Graffiti Stars W: www. youthgraffitiworkshops.com/ graffiti-workshops-for-childrenwith-special-needs Hop Skip and Jump W: www.hopskipandjump.org.uk/ hop-skip-jump-bristol Life Cycle W: www.lifecycleuk.org.uk National Autistic Society (NAS) W: www.autism.org.uk NAS Avon Branch W: www. nasavonbranch.webeden.co.uk Iris Grace by Arabella CarterJohnson, is published by Penguin, priced £16.99, www.penguin.co.uk PRIMARY TIMES

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Acting, singing and dance classes for 4 - 18 year olds.

Find out more and start your child’s journey today:

Portishead and Long Ashton 0117 953 2500

Cotham, Yate and Winterbourne 0800 970 2456

PADDINGTON™ and PADDINGTON BEAR™ © Paddington and Company Limited/ Studiocanal S.A. 2016 Paddington Bear™, Paddington™ and PB™ are trademarks of Paddington and Company Limited Licensed on behalf of Studiocanal S.A. by Copyrights Group www.paddington.com

Bath 01249 655900

JOIN PADDINGTON™ FOR A WEEKEND OF FAMILY FUN AT THE AVON VALLEY RAILWAY

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14 & 15 MAY Enjoy childrens’ rides, craft activities, face-painting, Punch & Judy as well as rides on our trains!

Paddington™ himself will also be making personal appearances at intervals throughout the weekend.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals.

Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

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©LW

www.avonvalleyrailway.org Bitton Railway Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6HD

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Ellen White goes in search of the ultimate Easter Egg Hunt

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hey may not inspire quite the same frenzied excitement as Christmas, but the Easter holidays offer plenty of fun, from spring crafts to bottle feeding lambs, and of course, lots of chocolate! Among the enduring attractions is the ever popular Easter Egg Hunt. Quick and easy to put together, they can be adapted to suit children of all ages and a variety of venues.

While the most important aim is to have fun, it can be helpful to set some ground rules before you begin, to minimise any dreaded “it’s not fair” meltdowns. If you have a larger group with varying ages it’s a good idea to pair up the younger ones with someone older to give them a fairer chance of finding the prizes, or if they’d prefer to work alone try staggering the groups depending on age so that little ones have longer to search. You could set up a base for children to return to after collecting a certain amount of eggs (say five), and only set out again once every child has reached it to ensure everyone gets a fair amount. Alternatively, for smaller groups, wrap the same amount of eggs or treats in different coloured tissue paper and assign each child a colour. Only collecting prizes in their colour keeps it fair and should eliminate arguments.

It’s up to you how many eggs you hide, however it’s a good idea to set limits for chocolate consumption to avoid being overrun by hyperactive children. Perhaps a few eggs once everyone has finished and then the rest can be saved for over the Easter holidays. You could also use mini plastic eggs for collection during the hunt and then give out sweet prizes, to ensure noone sneaks a surreptitious nibble of the prizes!

Egg hunts work well both indoors and outdoors. If you don’t have access to a garden then a trail in a 6

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sure there’s no egg shortage. Hourly slots available from 10am-3pm on Fri 25-Sun 27 Mar, £3.50 per child.

North Rd, Bristol, BS8 3PZ. T: 0844 2491895 W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/leighwoods.

local wood or park can be very effective: just make sure you set firm area boundaries before you start. Nicole Daw, a “50 Things” Engagement Ranger for the National Trust, suggests combining the hunt with learning. “Try including clues or questions about the plants and animals you might find, or the history of the place,” she says. “We aim to pick a route that works for all abilities and make it fun, although you can throw in some trickier questions for a bit of a challenge.”

Hidden clues work just as well around your home, plus it’s wise to have a back up plan when dealing with the unreliable British weather.

You could theme the hunt depending on your child’s interests, perhaps a pirate treasure map or an adventure story where each part contains a riddle to the next hiding place. Again, if you’re worried about too much sugar you could hide fancy dress items instead, for example ears, teeth, a tail and a bow tie to make an Easter Bunny outfit, then hand out eggs once everyone is dressed.

Finally, don’t forget to gather

enough baskets, buckets or containers for each child to collect their eggs in. If you’re planning a whole morning or afternoon of Easter fun you could set up a craft station for children to decorate their own paper bags beforehand.

If you don’t have the time or space to organise a hunt yourself, don’t worry.

There are plenty of local Easter egg trails available - here’s a selection of local events:

The Easter Bunny has been to Prior Park and left a stash of Easter eggs.

Follow the hunt through the garden to unlock the clues to his secret stash and earn yourself a delicious prize.

Fri 25-Mon 28 Mar, drop in between 10am-3.30pm. Standard admission prices apply plus £2.50 per hunt.

Ralph Allen Drive, Bath, BA2 5AH. T: 01225 833422 W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/priorpark-landscape-garden.

Meet recently hatched baby sharks in the Sunken Shipwreck area and follow an “egg-cellent” trail quiz to discover what sea creature lays hundreds of thousands of eggs at Bristol Aquarium this Easter. Plus meet Bolt the resident electric eel, baby sea horses, clownfish, turtles and more. From Fri 25 Mar-Sun 10 Apr. Anchor Rd, Bristol, BS1 5LL T: 0117 9298929 W: www.bristolaquarium.co.uk

The animals at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm have been busy hiding lots of Easter eggs around the zoo. Track them down and win a chocolatey prize! Drop in between 10.30am-5pm on Fri 25, Sat 26 or Mon 28 Mar, trail is free with standard admission.

Clevedon Rd, Wraxall, BS48 1PG. T: 01275 852606 W: www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk.

Enjoy a traditional Easter Egg Hunt and learn about local animals and plants at Leigh Woods. Due to popular demand it is essential that you book a time slot in advance to make PRIMARY TIMES

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All Holiday

Easter Trail on and inflatables the main field*

Mon 28th

March

Fri 25th March

Sat 26th March Decorate Easter biscuits*

Decorate Easter biscuits*

Fri 1st April (April Fools Day) Marky Jay Circus Skills

Easter Decorate ts* biscui e Owl Visit by th ary Sanctu

Sun 27th March (Easter Sunday) Egg & Spoon race (Weather permitting)

Sun 3rd April Fun Dog Agility (Pre-booking)

Decorate Easter biscuits*

Thurs 7th April Forest School Activities

Call 01454 414 081

Email: info@olddownestate.co.uk Visit: www.olddownestate.co.uk Old Down Estate, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG

443OD|0216

*Activities may incur a small charge

Easter Hoppyness at Farrington’s!

A Funtastic adventure come rain or shine Join us for our Easter Trail and crafts throughout the holidays, Closed Easter Sunday Open from 10am every day at Farrington’s Farm Shop & Café.

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Find us just off the A362 (BS39 6UB).

Inquiring It’s springtime and Bristol’s historic houses have re-opened!

Senior School Visiting Morning Blaise Castle House Museum Entertain the children with two great activity days. Bring a picnic to enjoy the wonderful parkland and play area.

30 March Easter Egg Hunt 6 April Toys and Games Activity Day bristolmuseums.org.uk

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The Red Lodge Museum and The Georgian House Museum Combine a trip to the city centre with a visit to one of our houses. Step back in time and discover secrets from the past!

Thursday 5 May

Junior School Visiting Morning Thursday 19 May To book your place, email admissions@redmaids.bristol.sch.uk or go to redmaids.co.uk/Visit Us Junior School, 0117 962 9451 Senior School, 0117 989 8252 Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9

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FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS ★ BRISTOL, BATH, N. SOMERSET & SOUTH GLOS

BATH THEATRE ROYAL Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www.theatreroyal.org.uk Stomp Tue 19-Sat 24 Apr, 7.30pm (Tue-Wed), 8pm (Thu-Sat), 2.30pm matinees on Wed, Sat & Sun, £17-£36.50 • The multiaward-winning global phenomenon comes to Bath, featuring new routines, new music and new choreography. Using everyday household items from paint cans and pipes to bin lids and brooms, performers fuse dance, percussion and comedy to create a feelgood, rhythmic spectacular.

Goodnight Mr Tom Tue 26-Sat 30 Apr, 7.30pm plus 1.30pm (Wed-Thu) & 2.30pm (Sat), £18.50£34.50 • During the dangerous build-up to the Second World War, young William Beech is evacuated to the English countryside and forges a remarkable friendship with elderly recluse Tom Oakly.

A heartwarming tale based on Michelle Magorian’s award-winning novel.

THE EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www. theatreroyal.org.uk The Remarkable Tale of Oliver Twist Thu 24-Sun 27 Mar, see website for times (10am-3pm), adult £8.50/child £7.50 • Most people know the boy who asked for more, but do you know the original story of ‘Oliver Twist’?

Red Earth’s adaptation of the Charles Dickens masterpiece recreates a colourful cast of largerThe Owl and the Pussy Cat’s Treasury of Nonsense, Wardrobe Theatre, Bristol, Mon 4-Sun 10 Apr

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than-life characters for a modern audience. Presented in Victorian music hall style: expect speciality acts, variety entertainment and great humour for all ages.

Kite Sat 2-Mon 4 Apr, 11.30am/3pm, adult £8.50/child £7.50 • Follow an adventure as wild as the wind as a lonely girl is taken to live in her grandma’s flat where the windows are always shut tight. One night a handmade kite comes to life, signalling the start of new adventures and reclaiming what was once lost. An atmospheric play without words, but with plenty of music, dance, puppetry and, of course, kites.

The Cat in the Hat Tue 5-Sun 10 Apr, times between 10am-3pm, please check website for dates, adult £9.50/child £8.50 • From the moment his tall, red-andwhite-striped hat appears around the door, Sally and her brother know that The Cat in the Hat is the funniest, most mischievous cat they have ever met. With the trickiest of tricks and craziest of ideas, he turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing adventure. But what will mum find when she gets home? Based on Dr Seuss’s modern classic.

Tetris Fri 15-Sun 17 Apr, 11am & 3pm, adult £8.50/child £7.50 • A gravity-defying, physical dance piece from the Netherlands dance company Arch8. Marvel as the four dancers flip, slide, undulate, leapfrog and tumble, arms and legs high in the air and twisted around each other, to create single unified forms out of their individual bodies. Perfect inspiration for those who can’t sit still!

Gargantua & Citizenship Tue 26 Apr, 6.30pm, £5/infant lap seats £2 (ages 0-2) • Double bill of performances from local schools. First up is St Gregory’s school’s ‘Gargantua’, as Mr and Mrs Mungus struggle to look after their giant baby. When a sinister military operation becomes intent on cloning an army of giant babies, he escapes. Who will stop him? And, more importantly, who will change his nappy? Then it’s the turn of Gloucestershire College with ‘Citizenship’, where adolescent Tom struggles with his sexuality and teasing from his friends. He needs some advice –but where from? Recommended for ages 10+.

The Musicians & Blackout Thu 28 Apr, 6.30pm, £5 • Scrum Down Theatre Company presents ‘The Musicians’, the tale of Ridley Road school orchestra and their trip of a lifetime to perform in Moscow.

Only problem is, their instruments have been seized by customs, but maybe Alex, the Russian boy

who cleans the hall, can save the day. Next up is Millfield School’s ‘Blackout’, a hard-hitting tale inspired by the real-life story of a young offender from Glasgow and what it takes to find yourself again.

Recommended for ages 10+.

Takeaway & Bassett Fri 29 Apr, 6.30pm, £5 • ‘Takeaway’ follows a town in the grip of an onion obsession, people will do anything to get their fix. Travelling poet Darcus offers to rid the town of onions with his poems – for a small fee.

A poetic ensemble piece about a community who pay the price for refusing to keep their promise, performed by Henry Beaufort School Winchester. Next up is Flipside Community Theatre’s ‘Bassett’, which follows a group of pupils after a supply teacher has locked them in the classroom.

As factions form and secrets are revealed, who will want to get away? An exhilarating and startling snapshot of a generation who have inherited a world at war.

Into the West Sat 7-Sun 8 May, 11.30am & 3pm, adult £8.50/child £7.50 • Imagine a glorious white horse comes out of a sea-mist and into your troubled life. Imagine trying to keep her on the 14th floor of a Dublin tower block. Now imagine the police are after you and your only escape is to ride into the west …Travelling Light present a special 20th anniversary performance of this story of love, loss, hope and magic.

Dinkies Storytime Sat 14 May, 2pm & 3.15pm, all tickets £2.50 • Join Jackie and Pooja from the popular Dinkies group as they bring some of your favourite books to life. This session’s story is ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’.

THE RONDO THEATRE St. Saviours Road, Bath BA1 6RT. 01225 463362, www.rondotheatre.co.uk The Homeless Panda Thu 24-Sun 27 Mar, 7pm, £5-£10 • Xióngmao (pronounced ‘ShaMow’) the Giant Panda has lost his home – where will he go?

Exploring the Min Mountains of China for a new home, Xióngmao encounters monkeys, snakes and more – but not all of them are willing to open their doors to our lumbering hero. It’s up to Xióngmao and a couple of new friends to convince the world that every panda needs a home.

The Card Ninja Wed 6 Apr, adult £14/child & conc £12 • “Card ninja” Javier Jarquin brings his award-winning show to Bath, promising extraordinary skill, sleight of hand and card tricks like you’ve never seen before. A one-man comedy show featuring

Kite, the egg, Bath, Sat 2-Mon 4 Apr.

impressive stunts, humour and audience participation. Family friendly, recommended for ages 12+.

BRISTOL ARNOLFINI 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA, 0117 9172300, www.arnolfini.org. uk.

Fashion Machine Sat 21-Sun 22 May, 4pm, adults £7/child £5 • Would you let a child make you over? Well, now is your chance.

Step inside the Fashion Machine with this unique combination of performance, art and design, where teams of local kids interview selected audience members who then give up the clothes on their backs. The kids have 55 minutes to stitch, cut, sew, accessorize, and turn the outfits into new works of wearable fashion art for the participants to model on the catwalk. Part of Mayfest.

BRISTOL HIPPODROME St. Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www. atgtickets.com/bristol Mamma Mia! Fri 25 Mar-Sat 7 May, see website for times, £19.50-£59.50 plus booking fee • A must for any Abba fans. Join the cast in a Greek island paradise for a story of love, friendship and identity. Sophie’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings her mother face to face with three men from her distant past on the eve of a wedding they’ll never forget. Features classic Abba songs including

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Easter Holidays

Gwyliau’r Pasg

Easter Trail

Trywydd y Pasg

Friday 25 March – Sunday 3 April

Dydd Gwener 25 Mawrth – Dydd Sul 3 Ebrill

Easter Fun

Hwyl y Pasg

Follow the clues around the site and win a prize.

Additional charge.

Easter Sunday 27 March & Easter Monday 28 March - 10am – 5pm

‘Meet the Knights’ and see them in action plus egg rolling, egg decorating and egg & spoon races. Combat displays: 12pm & 3pm; Archery 2pm. Please pre-book for egg decorating as there is limited availability and an additional charge.

Warrior School Friday 1 April

Learn how to sword fight in this special sword school for children. Separate classes for 5-9 year old and 10s & over.

Please pre-book. Additional charge.

Meet the Knights Saturday 2 April – Sunday 3 April

Follow the knights back in time with armour, archery and combat displays and spell-binding storytelling sessions.

Combat displays: 12pm & 3pm; Archery display: 2pm

Dilynwch y daith o amgylch y safle ac ennill gwobr arbennig.

Tâl ychwanegol.

Dydd Sul y Pasg 27 Mawrth a Dydd Llun y Pasg 28 Mawrth - 10am – 5pm

Cewch gyfle i ‘Gwrdd â’r Marchogion’ a’u gweld wrthi’n brwydro, hefyd rhowlio wyau, addurno wyau a rasys wy-a-llwy. Arddangosfeydd brwydro: hanner dydd a 3pm; Arddangosfa saethyddiaeth: 2pm. Archebwch ymlaen llaw ar gyfer yr addurno wyau am mai nifer cyfyngedig o lefydd sydd ar gael a thâl ychwanegol.

Ysgol Rhyfelwyr Dydd Gwener 1 Ebrill

Dysgwch sut i ymladd â chleddyf yn yr ysgol cleddyfau arbennig hon i blant. Dosbarthiadau ar wahân i blant 5-9 oed a 10+ oed. Archebwch ymlaen llaw. Tâl ychwanegol.

Cwrdd â’r Marchogion Dydd Sadwrn 2 Ebrill – Dydd Sul 3 Ebrill

Dilynwch y marchogion yn ôl drwy amser gydag arfwisgoedd, saethyddiaeth, arddangosfeydd ymladd a straeon swynol. Arddangosfeydd brwydro: hanner dydd a 3pm; Arddangosfa saethyddiaeth: 2pm

For more information visit www.cardiffcastle.com or call 029 2087 8100 for tickets Ewch i www.castell-caerdydd.com am rhagor o wybodaeth neu ffonwich 029 2087 8100 am docynnau

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

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‘Dancing Queen’, ‘Voulez Vous’ and many more to get you singing along.

My First Ballet: Sleeping Beauty Sat 21-Sun 22 May, 11am, 2pm & 5pm (Sat), 11am & 3pm (Sun), £12.90£28.90 • An enchanting version of the classic fairy tale specially designed for age three and upwards.

Follow the adventures of Princess Aurora, from her birth to the pricking of her finger and jubilant wedding celebration. With a narrator to help the young audience follow the story and a shortened version of Tchaikovsky’s music, this is the perfect introduction to the beauty of ballet.

BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org.uk Boxy and Sticky Thu 7-Sat 9 Apr, 11am & 3pm (Sat only), adult £10/child £7 • A mysterious theatrical adventure sure to delight those aged three and upwards and their families. See just how exciting a box and a stick can be by using just your imagination – followed by crafts, soft play and storytelling.

The Blind Tiger Cub Sat 14-Sun 15 May and Sat 21-Sun 22 May, times TBA, free (no need to book) • This is a speakeasy open-mic cabaret reimagined for little people, organised as part of Bristol’s Mayfest. If you’re older than four, but not yet a grown-up, get down into the tiger’s den and do a turn. You can just hang out, but it’s much more fun to join in. Refreshments available. Sense of humour essential. This production takes place in the BOV basement.

COLSTON HALL Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5AR. 0844 887 1500, www.colstonhall.org Ahoy! Sing for the Mary Rose Wed 23 Mar, 7pm, £5 (available through participating schools) • Students from schools across Bristol perform a musical retelling of the 1545 sinking of Tudor ship The Mary Rose.

Combining well know sea shanties with Tudor music and fascinating history, it promises fun for all ages.

KELVIN PLAYERS STUDIO THEATRE 253b Gloucester Rd, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8NY, 0117 9020344, www.monkeytrouserstheatre.com.

Mr Gotalot’s Gotalot Shop Sun 8 & Sun 15 May, 10.30am, 1pm & 3pm, £7/ family £25/under-3s free • Get ready for a cheesetastic fifth instalment of the original family theatrical sitcom, as Mr Gotalot gets up to mischief during ‘The Great British Cheese Off’. Expect puppetry, comedy, slapstick and lots of fun.

THE MATTHEW Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol, BS1 4RN, 0117 927 6868, www.matthew.co.uk.

Captain Barnacle’s Pirate Pantomime Tue 29 Mar and Fri 8 Apr, 2-3pm, family ticket £38, further prices TBA • Captain Barnacle is back on board for another riproaring trip around the harbor.

Pirate jokes, puppets and sing-alongs with lashings of audience participation – just watch out for Blackbeard!

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Mr Gotalot’s Gotalot Shop, Kelvin Players Studio Theatre, Sun 8 & Sun 15 May

2.30pm (Sat only), adult £11/conc £10/child £8 • The heart-warming tale of Annie’s adventures as she escapes from an orphanage and the wicked Miss Hannigan to start a new life with Daddy Warbucks.

THE ATHENAEUM 18-20 High Street, Warminster BA12 9AE. 01985 213891, www. theath.org.uk The Witches Thu 5-Sat 7 May, 7.30pm & 2.30pm (Sat only), adult £10/child £8.50 • The Athenaeum Masqueraders Youth present Roald Dahl’s wickedly entertaining tale of a young boy, his grandmother and a convention of witches..

REDGRAVE THEATRE Percival Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3LE. 0117 315 7000. The Redgrave has no permanent box office so please book directly with the visiting companies listed below.

The Pirates of Penzance 0333 6663366. Book tickets at www. redgravetheatre.com or www. bristolgsos.com. Tue 12-Sat 16 Apr, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm (Sat only), all tickets £14/reductions for family or group bookings • Bristol Gilbert and Sullivan Operatic Society present a new swashbuckling, topsy-turvy adventure. Follow the story of Frederic, a young pirate whose dedication to doing what is right causes him all kinds of difficulties. Throw into that mix double choruses, patter songs, a Pirate King, a Major General, a patrol of bumbling policemen and a bevy of beautiful daughters and you have all the ingredients of a classic Gilbert and Sullivan show.

ST GEORGE’S BRISTOL Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR. 0117 925 3333, www. stgeorgesbristol.co.uk Blundell’s School Chamber Music Concert Wed 23 Mar, 7pm, £8/conc £7/student £5 • Talented soloists and ensemble musicians from Blundell’s and The Downs’ schools perform works by Mozart, Puccini, Piazzolla and many more.

Mini Beats: Percussion Pandemonium Sun 10 Apr, 10.15am (ages 3-5) & 12pm (ages 5-8), £6 plus booking fee • Shhhh, nearly time to go back to school … but never fear!

MiniBeats is here with a Sunday session featuring the noisiest and naughtiest section of the orchestra, percussion! Get ready to bang those pots and pans with Bristol Ensemble’s Jeremy Little and Graham Bradley and presenter Laura Tanner.

Out There Music Bristol Summer Concert Sun 22 May, 7.30pm, adult £10/child £8 • A celebration of the year’s most popular performances from two community choirs, the chamber choir, the orchestra and children’s choir, culminating in a spectacu-

lar mass performance by all the groups.

TOBACCO FACTORY THEATRE Raleigh Road, Bristol BS3 1TF. 0117 902 0060, www.tobaccofactory.com The Amazing Bubble Man Sun 10 Apr, 11.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm, all tickets £9 • The international hit show is back, featuring bubble art, magic, science and lots of fun.

“Bubble man” Louis Pearl combines comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep all ages mesmerised.

THE WARDROBE THEATRE The Old Market Assembly, 25 West Street, Old Market, Bristol BS2 0DF. 0117 902 0344, www.thewardrobetheatre.com Much Ado About Puffin Tue 29 Mar-Sat 2 Apr, 11am/2pm, all tickets £7 • Join Open Attic as they traverse stormy seas and reckless tides to bring you this funny tale about a man all alone, a friendly puffin and a whole lot of fuss over nothing. Using skilful puppetry, beautiful music and good old-fashioned storytelling, ‘Much Ado About Puffin’ is about old habits, new friendships and stepping out into the unknown.

The Owl and the Pussycat’s Treasury of Nonsense Mon 4-Sun 10 Apr, 11am, all tickets £7 • The Owl is a poet, intent on writing his greatest masterpiece yet, but he shares his den with the Pussycat who likes telling stories too and she has a quite a different approach. This unlikely pair work and play together, creating magical worlds amongst the things in their den and turning everyday objects into new friends for their nonsense stories. A delightfully unpredictable show using object puppetry and magical music.

FURTHER AFIELD THE ARC THEATRE College Road, Trowbridge BA14 0ES. 01225 756376, www.arctheatre. org.uk Annie Tue 17-Sat 21 May, 7.30pm &

BACON THEATRE Dean Close School, Shelbourne Road, Cheltenham GL51 6HE. 01242 258002, www.bacontheatre.co.uk The Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark Mon 25 Apr, 10.30am, adult £10/child £8/family £32 • Blunderbus Theatre presents the charming tale of Plop, the baby barn owl who is afraid of the dark.

Mrs Barn Owl suggests he finds out about the dark for himself, so one day he peeps over his nest, wobbles and falls out – and so starts Plop’s big adventure …

Based on the children’s book by Jill Tomlinson, this is a funny, gentle and reassuring tale for ages 3-7 or anyone who still sleeps with the light on.

EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk Hetty Feather Wed 6-Sun 10 Apr, various times, £18-£24 • Follow Hetty’s adventures through Victorian London in the Oliviernominated stage show adapted from Jacqueline Wilson’s bestseller. Beautiful storytelling, original songs and live music, spectacular circus and a huge heart.

SALISBURY PLAYHOUSE Malthouse Lane, Salisbury SP2 7RA. 01722 320333, www.salisburyplayhouse.com Stay Brave Brian Gravy Thu 7-Sat 9 Apr, 7.45pm & 2.45pm (Sat only), £12/under-25s £9 • It’s Brian Gravy’s birthday, but it’s not going so well, not least because his Mum and Dad won’t stop fighting.

Then the wellington-boot-wearing Penny Splutter turns up. Salisbury Playhouse’s Youth Theatre present this anarchic comedy.

THE WYVERN THEATRE Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. 01793 524481, www.swindontheatres.co.uk The Railway Children Mon 4-Tue 5 Apr, 11am & 2.30pm, adult £12/ child £10/family £40 • E. Nesbit’s well-loved tale is brought to life by Woolford and John with a blend of storytelling, comedy and musical theatre. Moving to the Yorkshire countryside, Roberta, Peter and Phyllis make friends with the stationmaster Mr Perks, an unlikely friendship which holds the key to their future.

PRIMARY TIMES

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Come and join our friendly team!

We are looking to expand our fabulous team of

community care worker’s Carers Trust Phoenix (previously known as Crossroads Care North Somerset) is a local charity and network partner of the Carers Trust. We have been providing care within the community for 25 years in North Somerset and our staff retention is on average 15 years which goes to show that people genuinely enjoy working with us!

We are committed to providing high quality home help services with the highest standards of personal, domestic and companionship care to people living within their own homes.

We are currently recruiting across Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset and North Somerset.

No experience is necessary as we provide all the training and support you need. If you are professional in your approach and believe in delivering the highest quality of care then we want to hear from you!

WE OFFER an attractive hourly pay rate with enhanced bank holiday and evening rates, travel time between visits, 35p mileage between visits, free uniform and all training.

Whether you are looking for evenings, weekends or day work, we want to hear from you!

Phone Gail Jones or Sally Neal for an informal discussion on 01934 411840 ©LW

East Worlington • Devon

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East Worlington, Crediton, Devon EX17 4TN. Call 01884 860330 info@yeatheridge.co.uk www.yeatheridge.co.uk

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

Monday 2nd May Call for more information and to book your place.

“Excellent” in every category ISI Inspection Report, May 2015

e: admissions@badmintonschool.co.uk PRIMARY TIMES

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t: 0117 905 5271

badmintonschool.co.uk EASTER 2016 11

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EARLY YEARS INITIAL TEACHER TRAINING Are you a graduate working in an early years setting?

Looking for a ‘good’ local school?

Look no further as we celebrate a significant rise of 6% in overall results from last year!

This course will enable you to become a specialist in early childhood development while gaining Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS ).

The course is fully funded, plus you will benefit from an employer incentive of £7000. All delivered in an institution rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted (2015).

Every day is an open day. Please contact us to book a tour: www.fairfield.bristol.sch.uk

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Amazing students, very enthusiastic staff, feels very warm, welcoming and inclusive - love it - Prospective parent In the top 15% nationally for Value Added www.fairfield.bristol.sch.uk

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All Welcome St Bernadete Catholic Secondary School is a vibrant, ambitous and successful school serving families in the South and East of Bristol.

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©LW

Bradley Stoke

01454 626 764

Cabot Circus

0117 934 9499

Emersons Green

0117 370 9702

y Literac e v o L # www.explorelearning.co.uk PRIMARY TIMES

08/03/2016 12:08:11

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

giant games and, of course, chocolate eggs.

Deadlines: List your school or community events in Primary Times for free. We work a half-term in advance so we’re now collecting information for late May, June and July: deadline for inclusion Monday 18 April.

If your event is to raise funds for a school, a charity or your community, and is open to the public, please let the editor know at the address below.

Please send all listings information and news/feature ideas to him at: mike.gartside@localworld.co.uk 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!

MARCH FROM TUE 22 MAR NATURE LAB At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0117 909 2000, www.at-bristol.org.uk, drop-in sessions throughout the day, free with standard admission • Celebrate nature’s most vibrant season by exploring the science of living things. Discover the natural world around us and find out how to do your own wildlife survey.

UNTIL THU 31 MAR DEER FEEDING Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire SN14 8ER. 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org/ dyrham-park, 9-9.45am, adult £10/child £5 • A unique opportunity to feed the deer before the park is open. It’s a great chance to see the deer up close in their winter coats – an experience not to be missed! Maximum two people (including children).

UNTIL SUN 10 APR WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.bristolmuseums.org. uk/m-shed, 10am-5pm, £5/conc £4/under-16 free • The worldrenowned exhibition is back at M Shed with 100 images of wildlife from all over the globe. See animals from big cats to sealife and birds as you’ve never seen them before.

UNTIL SUN 10 APR FLAGGED UP TRAIL From Horfield Common to Stoke Park Estate, starts at Horfield Common, top of Wessex Ave, walking to Groundworks, Romney PRIMARY TIMES

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FRI 25-MON 28 MAR CADBURY’S EASTER EGG HUNT Prior Park Landscape Garden, Ralph Allen Drive, Bath BA2 5AH. 01225 833422, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/prior-park-landscapegarden, 10am-3.30pm, standard admission price plus £2.50 per hunt • The Easter Bunny has been to Prior Park and left a stash of Easter eggs. Follow the hunt through the garden to unlock the clues to his secret stash and earn yourself a delicious prize.

Easter Fun at The Mall, Bristol, Fri 25 Mar-Mon 28 Mar.

Ave, Bristol BS7 9TD. 0117 379 0115, free • Take a stroll through Horfield and Lockleaze and be inspired by community-made banners. Discover the green gems of Horfield Common and Stoke Park and find out what the local area has to offer.

UNTIL SUN 10 JUL (WEEKENDS & HOLS ONLY) GOOD VIBRATIONS At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0117 9151000, www.at-bristol.org.uk, 12.15 & 3.15pm (subject to change, please check before arrival), free with standard admission prices • From under the sea to outer space, bird song and bass bins; see, hear and feel vibrations as the presenter leads you through a series of immersive experiments during At-Bristol’s new family science show.

FROM FRI 25 MAR CANOE SAFARI Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/ wetland-centres/slimbridge, 11am5pm (last hire 4pm), canoes are £5 per adult, all under-18s must be accompanied by at least one adult • Grab a paddle and sail the watery passages of Slimbridge’s canoe safari trail. See birds from around the world as well as wildlife native to these shores and unique to the Gloucestershire area. And look out for wildlife such as water voles, dragonflies, warblers and ducks along the way. Canoes hold up to three people.

FROM FRI 25 MAR EASTER TRAIL & CRAFTS Farrington Farm Shop, Main St, Farrington Gurney BS39 6UB. 01761 452266, www.farringtons. co.uk, 10am-5pm • Seasonal activities for all ages.

FRI 25-SAT 26 & MON 28 MAR NOAH’S EASTER EGG HUNT Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Rd, Wraxall BS48 1PG. 01275 852606, www.noahsarkzoofarm. co.uk, 10.30am-5pm, included in standard admission prices • The animals have hidden lots of Easter eggs around the zoo. Track them down and win a chocolatey prize!

FRI 25-SUN 27 MAR EASTER EGG HUNT Leigh Woods, North Rd, Bristol BS8 3PZ. 0844 2491895, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/leigh-woods, 10am-3pm (hourly slots), £3.50 per child • Follow the trail around the woods, learn about the animals and plants that live there and win a chocolate prize. Due to popular demand it is essential that you book a time slot in advance to make sure there’s not an egg shortage. Suitable for ages 4+.

FRI 25-MON 28 MAR EASTER YARN TRAIL American Museum in Britain, Claverton Manor, Claverton, Bath BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www. americanmuseum.org, 12-5pm, included in standard admission prices • This year’s knitted trail celebrates ‘An American Toy Story’, recreating some favourite film characters in wool. Can you spot a knitted Jack Sparrow, Sleeping Beauty or your favourite Disney character? All items are hand-knitted by museum volunteers.

FRI 25-MON 28 MAR CADBURY EASTER EGG TRAIL Stourhead, Stourton BA12 6QF. 01747 841152, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/stourhead, 11am-4pm, £2.50 per trail plus standard admission prices • Join in some springtime family fun with a new Easter trail around the garden,

FRI 25-MON 28 MAR (CLOSED SUN 27) EASTER FUN AT THE MALL Cribbs Causeway, Merlin Rd, Bristol BS34 5DG. 0117 903 0303, www.mallcribbs.com, 10am6pm/9am-8pm (Sat only), free, some activities £2 • Discover lots of “eggsciting” activities at The Mall with plenty to keep little ones occupied. Fish for chicks in the fountain for the chance to win Easter treats, ride the indoor Easter train and enjoy other games.

FRI 25 MAR-THU 7 APR EASTER FAMILY FUN Watershed, 1 Canon’s Rd, Bristol BS1 5TX. 0117 927 5100, www. watershed.co.uk, see website for ticket prices & times • Watershed screens a “cracking” double bill of animated adventures from Aardman and offers the chance to learn how to craft your own figures from the experts themselves.

‘The Curse of the Were Rabbit’ is up first from Fri 25-Mon 31 Mar followed by ‘Chicken Run’ on Fri 1-Thu 7 Apr. Make Your Own Model workshops are on Wed 30 Mar and Wed 6 Apr at 10.30am, 2pm and 3.30pm.

FRI 25 MAR-SUN 10 APR GIANT DUCK HUNT Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/slimbridge, 9.30am-5pm, included in standard admission prices • A group of giant ducks have landed at Slimbridge this Easter, can you spot them all? Pick up an activity sheet on arrival, then follow the trail to win a tasty treat. There will also be Easter arts and crafts so you can make something to take home.

FRI 25 MAR-SUN 10 APR HOP TO IT: EASTER FAMILY FUN Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7300, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, 9am-5pm, child £5 with any full paying adult • Enjoy discounted child entry and » EASTER 2016

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TORWOOD HOUSE SCHOOL

*10

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Outdoor Laser Combat

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Open to all Aged 8+ Birthday Parties School and Youth Groups Onsite café & Microbrewery

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*10% discount valid until 31st May 2016

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A small school with big ambitions ...

OPEN DAY 9.30 - 12.00

Thursday 19th May REGISTER FOR YEAR 7 2016 TASTER DAYS ARE TAKING PLACE NOW Lower School places still available For further information visit www.colstons.org Email: admissions@colstons.org Telephone: 0117 965 5207

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EASTER 2016

We are an independent school for children aged 4 - 11 in Redland.

Contact us to arrange a personal tour.

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

04/03/2016 11:36:27

ROUNDABOUT

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

lots of “egg-stra” activities this Easter, including crafts, Hop To It trail, animal encounters and daily games between 10.30am-2pm.

Captain Barnacle regales families with tales of derring do aboard The Matthew, Bristol, Fri 25 Mar-Sun 10 Apr.

SAT 2-SUN 3 APR PYRONAUT TRIPS M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.bristolmuseums.org. uk/m-shed, various times, buy tickets on board on the day, adult £6/child £4 • Take a boat trip with a difference. Watch the powerful water cannon on Bristol’s former fire-boat at work during a trip around the docks she was built to protect.

FRI 25 MAR-SUN 10 APR PIRATE FUN ON THE MATTHEW The Matthew, Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol BS1 4RN. 0117 927 6868, www.matthew. co.uk, 10am-4pm (closed Mon 4 Apr), free entry/trips various prices • There’s piratey action on board The Matthew this Easter – ahoy! Enjoy a chocolate coin treasure hunt on board the ship, regular harbour trips and Captain Barnacle is back with his infamous Pirate pantomime trips.

FRI 25 MAR-SUN 17 APR VICTORIAN EXPLORERS Tyntesfield, nr Wraxall, Bristol BS48 1NT. 01275 461900, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield, 10am-4pm, free with standard admission prices • Discover the New World like a Victorian explorer. Uncover ancient relics, mysterious creatures and fascinating geology plus Easter egg hunt, games and activities.

SAT 26 MAR WE ARE FAMILY Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol BS1 4QA. 0117 917 2300, www. arnolfini.org.uk, 1-5pm, free (donations welcome) • Get creative with the We Are Family workshop and join in with engaging practical activities and games.

SAT 26 MAR FAMILY FILM SCREENING Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol BS1 4QA. 0117 917 2300, www. arnolfini.org.uk, 11am-1pm, free (donations welcome) • Special screening just for families based on a theme taken from one of the Arnolfini’s exhibitions or events.

Please see website to confirm which film will be showing.

SAT 26-SUN 27 MAR TASTE CHOCOLATE FAIR Waterfront Square, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5LL. 07961 326187, www.tastechocolate.co.uk, 10am-5pm, £3/under-13 free • Chocoholics rejoice! Here’s an entire weekend dedicated to the stuff, with everything from cakes and fudge to hot chocolate and Easter eggs. Also a prosecco bar for adults, cooking demonstrations, a city-wide Easter egg hunt and children’s activities.

MON 28 MAR THE RAILWAY CHILDREN Various venues across Avon & Glos including Odeon Bath, Cineworld Bristol, Cineworld Cheltenham & The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury. www.therailwaychildrenfilm.com, various times & prices, please check with individual cinemas • Nationwide stage-to-screen showing of York Theatre Royal’s Olivier award-winning production of E. Nesbit’s novel ‘The Railway Children’. Follow Bobbie, Peter and Phyllis as they are uprooted from London to the countryside followPRIMARY TIMES

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balls and rackets provided. Spaces are limited; please book via website.

ing their father’s false imprisonment. Dealing with themes of justice, family and the kindness of strangers, this is a classic for all ages.

TUE 29 MAR-SUN 10 APR SPRING SAFARI TRAIL Prior Park Landscape Garden, Ralph Allen Drive, Bath BA2 5AH. 01225 833422, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/prior-park-landscapegarden, 10am-4.30pm, standard admission price plus £1 per trail • Grab a trail from visitor reception and take the whole family to search for signs of spring.

WED 30 MAR AN EGGSCELLENT EASTER HUNT Blaise Castle House Museum, Bristol BS10 7QT. www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/blaise-castlehouse-museum, 10.30am-4pm, free (donations welcome) • Search the museum and gardens to find hidden clues. Will they be in the Victorian schoolroom or maybe in the greenhouse under a flowerpot? A chocolate prize for every child who completes the trail.

WED 30 MAR INDIAN CULTURE WORKSHOPS Yate Heritage Centre, Church Rd, Yate, Bristol BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage.co.uk, 10.30am & 1.30pm, free but booking essential • Try your hand at traditional Indian games, yoga, sari dressing and make your own chapati. Suitable for ages 5-12.

WED 30-THU 31 MAR EASTER SESSIONS Tobacco Factory Theatre, Raleigh Rd, Bristol BS3 1TF. 0117 902 0060, www.tobaccofactory.com, 10am3.30pm, £15 per session or £25 for both • Two sessions exploring performing arts skills aimed at those aged 10-13. Puppetry is up first on Wed: work with a professional puppeteer and explore how to bring puppets and objects to life. Thursday offers a chance to become a master of magic, spells and illusion as you learn tricks to fool your family and friends.

WED 30 MAR-TUE 31 MAY VICTORIAN MONTH Tyntesfield, nr Wraxall, Bristol BS48 1NT. 01275 461900, www.

nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield, 10am-4pm, free, various events throughout the day with various additional prices • Queen Victoria will be making her annual inspection of the estate along with her soldiers. Mr Brunel and his Young Engineer School will also be on hand and there’ll be a chance to learn about Victorian falconry.

THU 31 MAR CLAY WORKSHOPS Yate Heritage Centre, Church Rd, Yate, Bristol BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage.co.uk, 10.30am & 1.30pm, free but booking essential • Create your own clay objects in this classic holiday workshop. Suitable for ages 5-12.

THU 31 MAR GREAT BIG TREE CLIMB Leigh Woods, park on North Rd then follow signs from North Rd entrance to the Plain, Bristol BS8 3PL. 0800 0556760, www. bigtreeclimbing.co.uk, hourly slots from 10am, £20 • Two highly skilled and friendly instructors will teach you how to enter a tree’s canopy using ropes, knots and karabiners (whilst being securely attached in a harness at all times).

Enjoy the amazing experience of life in the tree tops before bravely abseiling to the ground. Suitable for ages 7+.

APRIL FRI 1 APR MEDIEVAL MAYHEM M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.bristolmuseums.org. uk/m-shed, 10am-4pm, pay what you think • Discover what life was like in medieval Bristol. Explore amazing archaeological objects in a day of family-friendly craft activities, dressing up and a fabulous feast.

FRI 1 & SAT 9 APR FREE MINI TENNIS Kings Lawn Tennis Club, Maplemeade, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8JG., 0117 924 8440, www. kingstennis.co.uk, 2-3.30pm (Fri 1) & 11am-12.30pm (Sat 9), free • Opportunity for kids and parents/ carers to try tennis for free. All

SAT 2-SUN 17 APR MIRROR MAKING Herschel Museum of Astronomy, 19 New King St, Bath BA1 2BL. 01225 446865, www.herschelmuseum.org.uk, 1-5pm, free with standard admission prices • William Herschel spent many hours polishing the mirrors for his telescope. It won’t take as long to make your own mosaic mirror with a space theme.

SAT 2-SUN 17 APR IN AN ENGLISH COUNTRY GARDEN No.1 Royal Crescent Museum, Bath BA1 2LR. 01225 428126, www. no1royalcrescent.org.uk, 10.30am5.30pm, free with standard admission • Have fun designing your own paper garden at this drop-in craft activity. Try out your skills as a landscape gardener and celebrate the remarkable life of English landscape architect Capability Brown.

MON 4 APR ROMANS – HEALTHY AND HAPPY? Roman Baths, Stall St, Bath BA1 1LZ. 01225 477785, www.romanbaths.co.uk, 10am-1pm & 2-4pm, included in standard admission prices • Find out all about what the Romans did to keep healthy and well. No need to book.

TUE 5 APR FRUITY FUN Bath Fashion Museum, Assembly Rooms, Bennett St, Bath BA1 2QH. 01225 477789, www.fashionmuseum.co.uk, 10.30am-12.30pm & 1.30-3.30pm, included in standard admission prices • Invent an enlarged fruit design. Could it be a hat, a print for a jacket, dress or shirt? No need to book.

TUE 5 APR WILD PLANTS Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 0300 0674890, www.forestry.gov. uk/westonbirt, 10.30am-12.30pm, included in standard admission prices • Walk hosted by Carol Taylor of Westonbirt’s volunteerled flora group, exploring wildflowers and other plants found in the arboretum. Walk covers approx. two miles. Suitable for ages 10+.

TUE 5 APR DECORATE WITH DECOUPAGE No.1 Royal Crescent Museum, Bath BA1 2LR. 01225 428126, www. » EASTER 2016

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ROUNDABOUT no1royalcrescent.org.uk, 11am-1pm, free with standard admission • Mary Delany (1700-1788) created beautiful pictures of plants and flowers by cutting and sticking coloured paper. Follow in her footsteps and become a decoupage designer of a decorative box to take home. For all ages.

WED 6 APR TOYS & GAMES ACTIVITY DAY Blaise Castle House Museum, Bristol BS10 7QT. www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/blaise-castlehouse-museum, 10.30am-4pm, free (donations welcome) • School’s out and it’s time to play.

Explore the collections of old toys and games, from tin soldiers to dolls houses, train sets to model farm animals. Enjoy a blast from the past with some old-fashioned board games and make your own Victorian game to take home.

THU 7 APR THEATRE DESIGN Tobacco Factory Theatre, Raleigh Rd, Bristol BS3 1TF. 0117 902 0060, www.tobaccofactory.com, 10am4pm, £15 • Spend the day with a professional theatre designer and learn how to take an idea and make it reality. Through costume, set and prop work, you’ll get exclusive insights and top tips about the wonderful world of theatre design. Suitable for ages 14-19.

THU 7 APR FAMILY MINI BEAST HUNT Leigh Woods, North Rd, Bristol BS8 3PZ. 0844 2491895, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/leigh-woods, 12.30-2pm, all tickets £3.50/ under-4s free • Leigh Woods is a fantastic place for mini-beasts.

Tick off two of your ‘50 things ...’ by hunting for bugs and setting up a snail race. Who will find, coach and celebrate the star slug, snail or worm?

FRI 8 APR PARENT & CHILD INTRODUCTION TO WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Family min-beast hunt, Leigh Woods, Bristol, Thu 7 Apr.

Toy & Games Activity Day, Blaise Castle House Museum, Bristol, Wed 6 Apr

Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/slimbridge, 10am-1pm, £25 per adult & child • Practical and enjoyable day for any budding wildlife photographers aged 8+ and their parents. Learn how to get great shots no matter what skill level or camera type and find out about composition, technique, fieldcraft and equipment before heading outside for a practical session.

SAT 9 APR BRISTOL ROCKS Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1RL. 0117 922 3571, www.bristolmuseums. org.uk/bristol-museum-and-artgallery, 11am-4pm, pay what you think • Rocks, fossils and minerals can tell us the most amazing things about our planet and they look pretty stunning too. Drop in for a family geology takeover day featuring dressing up, games, tours, behind the scenes and talks with geologists.

SAT 9 APR CHEDDAR MALE CHOIR & LAUNCESTON MALE CHOIR CONCERT St Cuthbert’s Church, 19 St Cuthbert St, Wells BA5 2AW. 01749 676906, www.cheddarmvchoir. co.uk, doors 7pm, concert 7.30pm, £8 • Two established male voice choirs join forces to raise money for Children’s Hospice South West as they celebrate their 25th anniversary.

TUE 12 & TUE 26 APR SLIMBRIDGE CYGNETS Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge, 10.30am with 11am start, £1.50 per child EASTER 2016

16 Avon Roundabout Easter 2016.indd 16

BS7 8JG. 0117 924 8440, www. kingstennis.co.uk, 11am-3pm, free • Free tennis activities for adults and children plus bouncy castles, giant games, competitions and prizes. Limited spaces; book via website.

SUN 17 APR SPRING WALK IN PRIOR’S WOOD Meet at Priory Pub Car Park, Station Rd, Portbury, Bristol BS20 7TN. www.avonwildlifetrust.org. uk, 2-4pm (please arrive 15 mins prior to start time), free • Enjoy a guided spring walk through the beautiful Prior’s Wood.

TUE 12 APR LECTURE SERIES: MEDIEVAL PETS Yate & District Heritage Centre, Church Rd, Yate, Bristol BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage. co.uk, 7.30-9pm, £2 • John Putley discusses the nature of medieval pets, what they meant to the medieval mind and what this can tell us of ourselves today.

16

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

• Special toddler mornings at Slimbridge. Tue 12 focuses on fabulous flamingos: what can you do that a flamingo can? Find out with a discovery session and crafts. Tue 26 calls for helpers on a bear hunt.

See if you can find the grizzly bear and anything else along the way.

WED 13 APR FISH & CHIP EVENING Avon Valley Railway, Bath Rd, Bristol BS30 6HD. 0117 932 5538, www.avonvalleyrailway.org, adult £20/child £14 • Fish and chip supper on board a train hauled by a heritage diesel.

WED 13 & WED 20 APR TODDLER MORNINGS Old Down Country Park, Foxholes Lane, Tockington, Bristol BS32 4PG. 01454 414081, www.olddownestate.co.uk/country-park, free park entry between 10am-1pm • Special toddler-friendly mornings offering free park entry and happy hour in the café with a coffee and cake for only £3.

MID-APRIL-MID-MAY PICK YOUR OWN TULIPS Farrington Farm Shop, Main St, Farrington Gurney BS39 6UB. 01761 452266, www.farringtons. co.uk, from 10am daily • There’ll be more than 50,000 tulips in bloom at Farrington’s this spring: pick your own or simply look at them. Proceeds support Dorothy House.

SAT 16 APR SPRING FLOWER POWER Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1RL. 0117 922 3571, www.bristolmuseums. org.uk/bristol-museum-and-artgallery, 11am-3pm, pay what you think • Become a botanist for the day and learn how specialists identify plants using the museum’s collection of historical specimens. Then draw a spring flower with a botanical artist and experiment with coloured pigment to make beautiful cards.

SAT 16 APR GREAT BRITISH TENNIS OPEN DAY Kings Lawn Tennis Club, Maplemeade, Bishopston, Bristol

SUN 17 APR WORLD HERITAGE DAY: GET THE GEORGIAN LOOK No.1 Royal Crescent Museum, Bath, BA1 2LR. 01225 428126, www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk, 11am-4pm, free • At this annual celebration of Bath’s World Heritage status, there will be a chance to try on outfits and wigs, design and wear a face patch and even try white ‘lead’ face powder and ‘mouse-skin’ eyebrows.

TUE 19 APR GONE SKETCHING Leigh Woods, North Rd, Bristol BS8 3PZ. 0844 2491895, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/leigh-woods, 2.15-3.15pm, free but please call to book in advance • Free drawing session celebrating the beauty of the woodland. Participants are invited to stay afterwards to review their progress and develop their skills. Suitable for young people but please call for age ranges.

SAT 23 APR NEARLY NEW SALE Longwell Green School, Ellacombe Rd, Longwell Green, Bristol BS30 9BA. 01454 866460, www.longwellgreenprimaryschool.co.uk, times TBA • High-quality secondhand sale selling everything from nursery equipment to outdoor toys, children’s clothes and games.

Sellers’ packs are free: to request one, email qualitynearlynewsale@ live.co.uk with your name, number and what you would like to sell.

SAT 23 APR ST GEORGE’S DAY CELEBRATIONS Yate & District Heritage Centre, Church Rd, Yate, Bristol BS37 5BG. 01454 862200, www.yateheritage. co.uk, 10.30am-4.30pm, free • English-inspired folk and morris dancing performances, plus entertainment from local youth groups.

An array of stalls and activities with a history and community theme will also be there with support from St Mary’s Church.

SAT 23-SUN 24 APR HELLO! LAWRENCE WESTON AND AVONMOUTH COMMUNITY EVENT At Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 9151000, www.at-bristol.org.uk.

10am-5pm, free with a valid flyer for families who live in Lawrence Weston and Avonmouth and/or » PRIMARY TIMES

08/03/2016 10:38:40

EGGSCITING CITING ADVENTURES THIS EASTER AT School r e stops ovr, Easte learningt doesn’ have to Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work throughout the year to ensure your child is constantly learning and developing their ability.

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Lots of animals to meet 2 huge indoor playbarns 2 jumping pillows On site catering Tractor & trailer rides

www.cattlecountry.co.uk 01453 810 510

or for more information please call us on

Berkeley Heath Farm, Berkeley, Glos. GL13 9EW Anyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult

EASTER 2016 17

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ROUNDABOUT »

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

have children who go to school there • A chance for families and community groups to discover At-Bristol science centre for free, as part of the Community Engagement Programme.

or have a go with a dressing-up Thaumatrope, an old-fashioned spinning toy.

JUNE

SAT 23 APR-SUN 8 MAY WILD GARLIC FORTNIGHT Prior Park Landscape Garden, Ralph Allen Drive, Bath BA2 5AH. 01225 833422, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/prior-park-landscapegarden, 10am-4.30pm, standard admission prices apply • Enjoy this aromatic and tasty plant which carpets the garden each spring. Pick your own to take home, grab a recipe to try or simply enjoy the fragrance and white flowers across the garden.

SUN 24 APR EXPERIENCE THE DAWN CHORUS Meet at The Shallows car park, Saltford, Bristol BS31 3EX. 0117 940 7968, www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk, 4.30-8am, free • One for early risers or a great activity if you’re already up and awake with the kids. Join Dave Sage from the Keynsham Avon Wildlife Trust to identify the different songbirds who make up the dawn chorus.

SUN 24 APR NATIONAL GARDEN SCHEME OPEN DAY Stourhead, Stourton BA12 6QF. 01747 841152, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/stourhead, 9am-6pm, standard admission prices apply • Enjoy the wonders of this world-famous landscape and help support the charities the NGS raises funds for. A donation will be made from all tickets bought on this day.

WED 27 APR WORLD TAPIR DAY Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Rd, Wraxall BS48 1PG. 01275 852606, www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk, 10.30am-5pm, included in standard admission prices • Celebrate World Tapir Day with the zoo’s resident lowland tapirs Tara and Toby. Win a chance to meet these friendly South American animals.

WED 27 APR-MON 2 MAY CHELTENHAM JAZZ FESTIVAL Various venues, Cheltenham. 01242 850270, www.cheltenhamfestivals. com/jazz, times & prices vary, please see website • The renowned Cheltenham Jazz Festival returns, bringing a whole host of internationally acclaimed names and up-andcoming stars. Highlights for families include Jazz Kids (30 Apr, 2-3pm), Learn to Swing Dance (30 Apr , 4,4.45 & 5.30pm) and Sara Colman’s Family Sing (Sun 1 May, 2.45pm).

MAY SAT 7-SUN 8 MAY ARTS & CRAFTS WEEKEND & BODGER’S BALL Tyntesfield, nr Wraxall, Bristol BS48 1NT. 01275 461900, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield, 10am-4pm, free with standard admission prices 18

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SAT 18-SUN 19 JUN BATH FESTIVAL OF MOTORING Walcot Rugby Ground, Lansdown, Bath BA1 9BJ. www.bathfestivalofmotoring.com, 10am-5pm (4pm Sun), see website for prices • Perfect for Father’s Day, the Rotary Club of Bath’s Festival of Motoring returns with more than 500 vintage and classic cars and motorbikes, plus trade stands and entertainment for all ages.

Go Aloft re-opens at ssGreat Britain, Bristol, this March

• Rediscover the oldest traditions of craftsmanship at Tyntesfield.

Traditional crafts people from Somerset and further afield come together for the annual Bodger’s Ball. Activities will include demonstrations, workshops and children’s activities.

SAT 7-SUN 8 MAY CRAFT FAIR Stourhead, Stourton BA12 6QF. 01747 841152, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/stourhead, 10am-5.30pm, free • Stalls for local artists and craftspeople selling everything from jewellery and pottery to paintings, wood turning and much more.

SUN 8 MAY MENDIP CLASSIC CAR TOUR Farrington Farm Shop, Main St, Farrington Gurney BS39 6UB. 01761 452266, www.farringtons.co.uk, 8-10am • A chance to see the start of the Mendip Classic Car Club’s annual tour.

FRI 13-SUN 15 MAY FOODIES FESTIVAL Durdham Downs, Bristol BS9 1PG. 0844 9951111, www.foodiesfestival. com, see website for times, adult Fri £10/ adult Sat & Sun £14/threeday ticket £20/under-12 free • The UK’s biggest food and drink festival returns to Bristol for a seventh year.

Three days of stalls, events and cookery demonstrations, including appearances from Michelin-starred chefs, artisan products market, vintage tea room, children’s cookery school, chilli-eating challenge, live music, pop-up bars and much more.

SAT 14-SUN 15 MAY PADDINGTON FAMILY FUN WEEKEND Avon Valley Railway, Bath Rd, Bristol BS30 6HD. 0117 932 5538, www. avonvalleyrailway.org, see website for train timetables, included in standard admission prices • Everyone’s favourite marmaladeloving bear will be popping up at intervals throughout the weekend.

Meet Paddington, ride on the steam trains and enjoy a range of family activities.

SAT 14-SUN 15 MAY VICTORIAN RAGS & RICHES Tyntesfield, nr Wraxall, Bristol BS48

1NT. 01275 461900, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield, 10am-4pm, free with standard admission prices • How the other half live! Head to Tyntesfield and experience the high life – and the low life – with activities all weekend including Queen Victoria’s Etiquette School and the Ragged Victorian’s Urchin School.

SAT 14-SUN 15 MAY BS9 ARTS TRAIL Various venues, Stoke Bishop, Westbury-on-Trym & Henleaze, Bristol. www.bs9arts.co.uk, 11am5pm, free • Third annual arts trail spread across local venues, including artists’ homes and studios, plus village halls and other larger places.

Meet the artists and stroll through local green spaces including the Downs, Westbury Wildlife Park and the Botanical Gardens.

SUN 15 MAY PLAYING WITH INK WORKSHOP Museum of East Asian Art, 12 Bennett St, Bath BA1 2QJ. 01225 464640, www.meaa.org.uk, 2-4pm, £8 per child • Explore the art and techniques of Chinese ink painting with exhibiting artist Wu LanChiann. Gain first-hand experience using ink and brushes and learn about the inspiration behind LanChiann’s paintings on display in her exhibition ‘Reflections’. Suitable for ages 8+.

SAT 21 MAY ENDANGERED SPECIES DAY Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Rd, Wraxall BS48 1PG. 01275 852606, www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk, 10.30am-5pm, included in standard admission prices • A day dedicated to all the endangered species at Noah’s Ark including black and white ruffed lemurs, siamang gibbons, cotton topped tamarins and many more.

TUE 31 MAY THE CHANGING FACE OF FASHION Bath Fashion Museum, Assembly Rooms, Bennett St, Bath BA1 2QH. 01225 477789, www.fashionmuseum.co.uk, 10.30am-12.30pm & 1.30-3.30pm, included in standard admission prices • Make ‘Flickerbooks’ to show the changing shapes of fashion through time

SUN 19 JUN CHEW VALLEY 10K & 1K Bishop Sutton Village Hall, Wick Rd, Bishop Sutton, NE Somerset BS39 5XD. 01275 331383, www.chewvalley10k.co.uk, 9.30am, 10k entry £17 • Registration is open for Chew Valley’s ever popular 10k: don’t delay signing up as last year’s event sold out well in advance of the day.

ONGOING EVENTS GO ALOFT ss Great Britain, Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Rd, Bristol BS1 6TY. www.ssgreatbritain.org, 11am, £10 plus standard admission fees • Could you have sailed the seven seas? Step into the shoes of a Victorian sailor and climb the huge mainmast of the ss Great Britain.

You’ll be safely strapped into a harness and briefed by a topman on the weather deck before ascending the rigging to a viewing platform 26m above ground level.

FAMILY EXPLORER KITS M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/mshed, 10am-5pm, £2 plus £8 refundable deposit • Can you find the things on the photo trail? Pretend to be an explorer on an expedition and see how different things look through binoculars or a magnifying glass. Suitable for under-sevens.

Hire from M Shop.

NATURE LAB At Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 9151000, www. at-bristol.org.uk. Drop in sessions throughout the day, free with standard admission • Celebrate nature’s party season by exploring the science of living things! Think like a bee and find out how they feed, get up close to growing things and become a nature detective by learning to survey the wildlife in your garden.

ROUNDABOUT AND THEATRE LISTINGS BY ELLEN WHITE PRIMARY TIMES

08/03/2016 10:39:12

Easter Family Fun at

It’s fun for all the family this Easter with a cracking double bill of animated adventures from local heroes Aardman.

Plus an amazing opportunity to learn how to craft your own figures from the experts themselves!

Curse of the Were-Rabbit (U)

Discover a real Roman world beneath your feet

Fri 25 – Thu 31 March

Make Your Own Easter Character with Aardman Model making workshops with the experts!

Wed 30 March & Wed 6 April

Chicken Run (U) Fri 1 – Thu 7 April Book online watershed.co.uk | Box Office 0117 927 5100 Watershed 1 Canons Rd Bristol BS1 5TX

www.romanbaths.co.uk

Join our Tribe!

Easter Camps Mon 4th-Fri 15th April Sports include: Athletics • Football • Hockey Trampolining • Badminton Volleyball • Soccer Tots To book call Tribe on : (01225) 386915 or email: S.Tadd@bath.ac.uk All courses take place at the University of Bath.

For more information visit: www.teambath.com/tribe-schools

www.teambath.com PRIMARY TIMES

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EASTER 2016 19

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EASTER 2016

PRIMARY TIMES

04/03/2016 10:51:35

Follas winner Mat Masterchef

ies Festival Bristol Food onstage at

Bath Farmers’ Market (and below left)

The green shoots of March bring with them a whole new crop of vegetables and produce.

Ellen White explores how children can be given a spring in their step about seasonal food.

I

t’s hard to watch a celebrity chef on television these days without listening to their heartfelt homily on the merits of eating fresh, locally sourced food. And, while you may get the feeling that they are all fighting for a place on an over-crowded farmyard band waggon, they are not wrong. As the dark nights of winter recede, this is the ideal time of year to get children interested in cooking. Spring brings with it an abundance of new-born animals, cheerful daffodils and fantastic, fresh food as plenty of fruit and vegetables come into season.

As those chefs testify, eating

Spring

Greens hearts or other appealing shapes.

Even tiny ones can help out with the cooking: start off small by letting them stir sauces or weigh out ingredients. Under supervision, older children can be a great help in the kitchen, teach them how to use electric mixers or carefully chop vegetables.

Carrot and cucumber sticks could be garden bunny snacks, while sandwiches cut into chick or rabbit shapes gets them excited about the ingredients inside. That way, cooking becomes a fun craft activity as children build up a

»

Grillstock, Bristol

seasonally brings a massive flavour boost to your cooking and can also be easier on the wallet. Vegetables at their peak over the next few months include asparagus, fennel, spinach, peas, artichokes and green beans, while fruit such as pears, rhubarb and apricots are delicious at this time of year.

The focus on nutrition and environmentally sustainable food has gathered momentum in recent years and healthy eating can benefit the whole family. Involving young children in the grocery shopping can be an effective way to teach them more about food preparation and help them make healthy choices. Supermarket PRIMARY TIMES

16 Avon Features Easter 2016.indd 7

magazines and websites are full of great spring recipes: try letting your child pick one or two meals they’d like and then go shopping for ingredients together. You could also explain what it means when something is ‘in season’ and where different foods come from.

Often children’s refusal to try new foods is down to aesthetic appeal: every parent has battled with a child’s insistence that they don’t like something before they’ve even tried it. A focus on colour or new shapes can make a world of difference. So, challenge them to be the first to ‘eat a rainbow’ of different coloured foods or use biscuit cutters to make stars,

A trader at the Sunday Market, Tobacco Factory, Bristol

EASTER 2016

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08/03/2016 12:50:29

Taste Chocolate

Yurt Lush chefs at Eat Drink Bristol Fashion

Spring

(more)

Greens Wild garlic at

» repertoire of their favourite meals and ingredients, perhaps even keeping a scrapbook of recipes and shopping lists. With Easter fast approaching, putting the emphasis on cooking fresh food can shift the focus away from chocolate eggs.

For other ideas on food and cooking, there are a host of foodrelated events coming up in the region, from farmers’ markets and foodie festivals to cooking demonstrations. If you want to learn more or sample delicious local, seasonal produce, head on down to one of the events below. You’re sure to pick up some ideas to feed the whole family.

FOODIES FESTIVAL returns to Bristol for a seventh year. Three days of stalls, events and cookery demonstrations, include appearances from Michelin starred chefs, an artisan products market, vintage tea room, children’s cookery school, chilli eating challenge, live music, pop up bars and more. Fri 13-Sun 15 May. Durdham Downs, Bristol, BS9 1PG, adult ticket Fri £10, Sat/Sun £14, three day ticket £20, under 12s free.

T: 0844 995 1111 W: www.foodiesfestival.com TASTE CHOCOLATE FAIR It wouldn’t be spring without some Easter chocolate and this fair comes just in time. An entire weekend dedicated to all things choccy, with everything from cakes and fudge to hot chocolate and Easter 22

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eggs. There’s also a prosecco bar for adults, cooking demonstrations, a city-wide Easter egg hunt and children’s activities.

Sat 26-Sun 27 Mar. Waterfront Square, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5LL.10am-5pm, £3/under 13s free.

T: 07961 326187 W: www.tastechocolate.co.uk FOOD CONNECTIONS aims to bring Bristolians and good food together with a host of citywide events. The programme promises celebratory feasts and banquets, cooking demos and community events, with some taking a closer look at the social, environmental and economic challenges we face in feeding a growing population.

Fri 29 Apr and Sun 7 May. Various venues around Bristol.

W: www.bristolfoodconnections.com

Yurt Lush

Prior Park

GRILLSTOCK is ideal for those who can’t resist the smoky allure of charcoal and sizzling steaks. Transforming the Bristol Harbourside into a meat lover’s paradise this July, the weekend sees everything on offer from burgers to steak, ribs, pulled pork and BBQ chicken plus a range of live music. Sat 2-Sun 3 Jul, Bristol Harbourside. See website for ticket prices, children under 12 go free.

W: www.grillstock.co.uk BATH FARMER’S MARKET Discover, browse and sample a cornucopia of foodie delights from fruit and vegetables to freshly baked pies, bread, organic meats and sweet treats, all sourced within 40 miles of the city. Every Saturday morning at Green Park Station, Bath, BA1 1JB. 9am1.30pm,

T: 01225 824197 W: www.bathfarmersmarket.co.uk PRIOR PARK invites you to pick your own wild garlic and learn more about this aromatic and tasty plant that carpets the garden each spring. Collect your own garlic to take home, grab a recipe to try out or simply enjoy the fragrance and white flowers across the garden. Sat 23 Apr-Sun 8 May. Prior Park, Ralph Allen Drive, Bath, BA2 5AH. T: 01225 833422 W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ prior-park-landscape-garden TOBACCO FACTORY SUNDAY MARKET South Bristol comes alive every Sunday when bakers, cheese makers and food connoisseurs join craftspeople to sample the best local and organic produce. Takes place every Sunday (with an extended market every third Sunday of the month), 10am2.30pm, Raleigh Road, Southville, Bristol W: www.tobaccofactory.com/section.php/39/1/sunday_market YURT LUSH is a new Bristol venue born out of the now suspended tipi-based festival Eat Drink Bristol Fashion. Located in Clock Tower Yard, next to Bristol Temple Meads station, it boasts Michelin-starred chef Josh Eggleton as a director and hosts a programme of events including guest chef nights and gigs.

W: eatdrinkbristolfashion.co.uk/ yurt-lush PRIMARY TIMES

08/03/2016 10:21:19

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Chedworth Roman Villa

easter activities PRIMARY TIMES

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Fri 25 - Mon 28 March: Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Tues 29 March - Sun 10 April: Easter children's trail and craft activities Members and under 5s go free.

01242 890256 nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworth

EASTER 2016 23

04/03/2016 10:53:42

Keeping the kids happy is child’s play at 3

1

£

£ .50*

12pk

60p each

Have an egg-cellent Easter

1

£ .25* each

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Find your local store at www.wilko.com/page/storelocator *Items available in store only. All products are subject to availability. Some items available in larger stores only, please check with your store in advance to avoid disappointment. Also online at wilko.com. 0426901 Wilko Make Your Own Easter Egg Basket Bunny/Chick. 0351501 Cupcake Cases 12pk. 0284023 Wilko Seeds Sunflower Giant Single.

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EASTER 2016

PRIMARY TIMES

04/03/2016 11:05:24

Adver tising Feature

Eggcellent ideas to keep the kids busy With the Easter break just around the corner, many parents are starting to think about how to entertain the kids, particularly if the weather forecast isn’t looking too good. With a few fun activities, some creative thinking and a bit of forward planning, it’s easy to keep little ones busy and active – and without breaking the bank!

Get creative with Easter crafts

Craft projects are brilliant for engaging children.

Not only do they provide them with hours of entertainment, but they’re also ideal for building skills and cognitive development.

Colouring in and painting are both great fun whatever the weather – kids love to get the crayons and paints out to create their own magical world of colour! Ready-made kits for creating jigsaws, piggy banks and picture frames will help to add excitement, and also make lovely personalised gifts if there’s a birthday coming up! Of course a colouring book with a bunch of crayons is also a great way to have some quality quiet time together.

At Easter time there are loads of craft kits available, such as sets to make bonnets, egg baskets and masks. They include all the bits and pieces needed to set the kids loose on their own Easter project! A make your own Easter sign set will also help you decorate the home, ready for the big day.

Mixing it up in the kitchen

Kids love to get involved and the kitchen is a great place to spark creativity and get stuck in, especially on those rainy days. For kids that love sweet treats (and that’s all of them!), there’s no beating a bit of good old fashioned baking... just be prepared to see more mix on the floor than in the bowl! Whether it’s jam tarts, fairy cakes or gingerbread men, baking is a great opportunity for kids to learn new skills and bake their own creations. For added enthusiasm, a few fun-shaped colourful cutters will do the trick.

Teaching children how to make meals or snacks from scratch can be a great way of increasing their understanding of the importance of healthy eating, and get them thinking about where food comes from.

To get them interested, it can be fun to make dishes that the kids have never tried before – it could be as simple as a fruit salad filled with unusual fruits from around the world.

For those lucky enough to be jetting off somewhere exotic this year, a whole menu could be created made up of dishes from that country... a sure bet to get everyone excited!

Outdoor activities

With rumours that warm weather’s on its way, as unlikely as it seems now, there may be plenty of fun to be had in the garden. Setting up a garden Olympics will help keep little ones both busy and active... think sandpit for the long jump and two lengths of the garden for the 100 metres race. They’ll tire themselves out whilst having a load of fun... all without you having to spend a penny!

Euro 2016 is only a couple of months away now, so setting up the goal posts and net for a penalty shoot out may help them take an interest – just keep competitive dads well away! If football isn’t their thing, a tennis, rounders or badminton set will be just as fun.

For not-so-sporty kids, gardening is a great activity no matter what age they are. Pick a simple activity to start with like planting seeds – and watch them get hooked as their plants start to grow. Even children who find it difficult to concentrate will love to track the development of their plants as they get taller and taller thanks to their care and attention.

Some parents like to add a competitive element to see who can grow the tallest, largest or tastiest plant! Now is the perfect time to start thinking about growing super-easy sunflowers, and a pack of seeds costs less than a quid – great value for weeks of fastgrowing fun!

For more ideas to keep the kids busy this Easter visit wilko.com or visit our blog - life.wilko.com

PRIMARY TIMES

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EASTER 2016

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08/03/2016 10:22:00

CALL 111 if you need medical help fast, but it’s not life-threatening.

VISIT YOUR PHARMACIST for expert advice on common illnesses and ailments, as well as emergency prescriptions.

INJURED OR FEELING UNWELL? WE’RE HERE TO HELP

BOOK TO SEE YOUR GP for illnesses that won’t go away. For the out-of-hours GP service, dial 111.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL MINOR INJURIES UNIT, walk-in centre or urgent care centre for on-the-spot treatment of minor injuries and illnesses.

Remember, A&E IS FOR EMERGENCIES. If in doubt, call 111 first.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit bristolccg.nhs.uk/choosewell, northsomersetccg.nhs.uk/choosewell, or southgloucestershireccg.nhs.uk/choosewell Call NHS 111, free, at any time | Download your ‘NHS service finder’ app for Apple or Android.

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PRIMARY TIMES

04/03/2016 11:08:35

ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

Country capers Capital adventures With the daffodils opening and filling the banks of the medieval keep, Cardiff Castle looks at its most stunning in springtime.

And there’s plenty to do for all the family. You can climb to the very top of the keep, visit the castle apartments with their amazing decoration and then explore the atmospheric wartime shelters.

Elsewhere in the castle, you’ll find the deadly Trebuchet war machine and remains of a Roman fort. You can also take a guided tour of the main house and the clock tower or pick up a free audio guide and explore the castle and grounds at your own pace.

Head down to the castle too for some Easter-themed events, including egg rolling, egg decorating and a chance to meet the knights for archery, combat displays and spellbinding storytelling sessions.

Ffi: Cardiff Castle W: www.cardiffcastle.com

Train of creativity Parents looking for new ways to keep their children active, happy and engaged have found the solution in the form of singing, acting and dancing classes at Stagecoach Theatre Arts.

It’s fair to say that Stagecoach provides more than a love of performing.

Youngsters are given the freedom to embrace their creativity and express themselves as they learn new skills.

Classes boost self-confidence, creativity and curiosity and help youngsters build skills that last a lifetime.

Classes are small, which means that every child is given attention and allowed to realise their potential at their own pace. The teachers are trained performers and are there to lead and support youngsters as they conquer fears and rise to new challenges.

For locations and contact numbers, see the ad on page 5. To find out more about a two week trial in Bath, Bristol or North Somerset, visit: www.stagecoach.co.uk/2-week-trialoffer.

Ffi: Stagecoach W: www.stagecoach.co.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

16 Avon Pinboard Easter 2016.indd 23

The Country Park at Old Down Estate is the perfect place to rediscover family time. It has a huge adventure playground including a zip wire and giant jumping pillow, as well as plenty of farmyard animals for children to interact with – so make your way round to pets’ corner and splash in all the puddles with the free-range ducks and chickens. Wildflower meadows with panoramic views across the River Severn sweep the landscape and there are beautiful woodland walks. Almost every weekend there are craft activities for children or there may be a special guest performer. The Barn café serves freshly prepared food made with locally sourced ingredients, some from the park’s own walled garden, whilst the farm shop supplies local produce, free-range eggs and special gifts. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for Kev the peacock – “peao, peao!”

Ffi: The Country Park at Old Down Estate W: olddownestate.co.uk/ country-park

Teeming with life Summer term is a fantastic time for teachers to visit WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre with their classes.

The ponds are teeming with life.

Learners will get hands on, catching and identifying creatures, watching them up close and exploring how different species have adapted to breathe, eat and move around in the water.

Around the Wetland Centre wildflowers are in bloom, brightly coloured dragonflies are flying and fluffy ducklings are hatching. In the guided learning session ‘What do birds eat and how?’ pupils will get close to all sorts of birds, from waders with long beaks probing mud for worms to grass-nibbling geese.

WWT’s guided and self-guided learning opportunities are suitable for all ages and abilities and are designed to support learning in school. Summer term is filling up fast so book early to avoid disappointment. And if your school has 20% or more pupils eligible for free school meals, you may qualify for a free visit.

Ffi: WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre T: 01453 891117 E: education.slimbridge@wwt.org.uk W: www.wwt.org.uk/learn

Keys to success Lucy Sansom loves teaching the piano.

“I really feel I have my vocation in life,” she says. “I find it infinitely fascinating and exciting watching people learn and grow, especially children.

I feel my brain and soul have been reactivated since I started teaching and thinking about my own playing and development.”

Learning any musical instrument is beneficial in many different ways, especially the piano. When you learn to play the piano, you are learning to ‘read’ a new language; you are constantly doing maths (music is very mathematical, with lots of counting, rhythm, timing, factions ...); you are exercising your hands and fingers (for manual dexterity) and you are expressing yourself through an art form. In short, learning to play the piano benefits the mind, body and soul.

Lucy teaches piano in her own home and will be happy to talk to you about the lessons she offers.

Ffi: Lucy Sansom E: lucyemsansom@gmail.com

Meet the teachers Sam Browning Red Maids’ Y3 team Sam and Lauren Browning (left) and Lauren Jones are both Jones year-three teachers at Bristol’s Red Maids’ School.

Miss Browning has taught at the all-girls school since 2000 and is also director of music. Miss Jones started in September; she plays netball and her degree in biology lends itself to her interest in science.

Miss Browning says: “We make learning fun at Red Maids’, combining traditional methods with the latest iPad technology to enhance the girls’ experience and maintain interest.”

Red Maids’ is an independent school for girls aged 7 to 18. Year three is the main entry point into the junior school and girls join from local primary and independent schools. The junior school day begins as early as 7.45am and pupils are supervised in before and after school sessions by staff.

The next visiting mornings are at Red Maids’ Senior School on Thursday 5 May and Red Maids’ Juniors on Thursday 19 May. To book, go to redmaids.co.uk/Visit Us

Ffi: Red Maids’ School Bristol W: www.redmaids.co.uk

EASTER 2016 27

08/03/2016 10:32:46

Battling Brothers & Sparring Sisters Are your children

constantly ‘at’ each other, arguing, fighting and generally failing to get on?

Congratulations, you’ve got a ‘normal’ family.

The causes of ‘Sibling Rivalry’ are quite simple – from the moment you have more than one child they are in constant competition (either consciously or unconsciously) for your attention and often for material things too – food, toys, the TV remote, but mainly you!

Until they are adults your children’s different ages will mean they are at different developmental milestones which can lead to friction. This can be exacerbated by being different sexes. Also, parents need to remember that children are individuals and, even within the same family unit, can have widely different personalities.

While sibling rivalry may be normal, it can be quite upsetting to see, and hear, your children battling with each other. Children don’t pull their punches and can be exceptionally cruel to each other. (I recently heard an 8-year-old boy call his younger sister “a fat lump”). If the fighting is persistent it can make the whole household stressed and unhappy. So what can parents do?

For most people the inclination is to wade in and deal with it. Unfortunately, this isn’t the best way to approach battling siblings. For the most part parents should stand back and let the kids sort it out for themselves. If you get into the habit of resolving conflict between your children, they will end up expecting you to do it all the time. Having young children who can’t sort out their problems is bad enough but fast forward and you could end up with offspring in their 40s still waiting for Mum and Dad to mediate.

The upside to sibling rivalry is that it has an obvious evolutionary advantage. Just like puppies play fighting, children getting into disagreements have to learn how to negotiate and resolve their problems which helps prepare them for some of the difficulties that await them in adult life. Obviously if your children are physically beating each other up you have to intervene and make them stop. If the bickering gets too much for you then separate them and give them plenty of time to calm down before letting them attempt to resolve the conflict themselves.

Rather than dealing with the conflict as and when it arises pre-empt it by having certain rules that apply across the household.

• No bad language or name calling.

• No physical violence.

• No yelling, stomping off or banging doors.

Unfortunately, Of course, you have to practice what you

preach. If your child sees adults shouting, name-calling or slamming doors then they will imitate it.

It is extremely important to remember to let your children know that they are allowed to dislike their siblings or to feel angry with them. These feelings are valid and quite

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beyond the child’s control. However, the difference between feelings which cannot be controlled and actions, which can, be must be emphasised.

Remind children that it’s not their feelings you have an issue with but the way they act on them. Being angry or annoyed with someone doesn’t mean you don’t love them. Some people don’t allow their children to use the word ‘hate’ but if they do say they ‘hate’ their sibling don’t make them feel guilty about it.

They’re people, they’re never going to be perfect and guilt just leads to more resentment and a vicious circle of bickering.

Other golden rules to minimize rivalry...

• Give your individual children space. They have to share you with each other. They possibly have to share a room, clothing and other things so let them have time to themselves. It might seem obvious but if you have a school age child and a pre-schooler often the older child never gets to do anything without the younger child in attendance. It’s not easy to juggle various children’s timetables and commitments but it is important that school age children aren’t expected to include the younger sibling(s) in every thing they do.

• Try to ensure you have some private oneon-one time with each child and whenever possible let the child decide how to spend that private time.

• If squabbles regularly erupt over the same things – the TV remote, the tablet or computer, certain prized toys, then draw up a schedule as to who has what and when. If that doesn’t work, then make the desired object off-limits for a short time.

• Don’t compare. Your children are different and may excel or struggle in different areas.

There is no point in saying “Oh Luke was ever so good at this when he was your age.” It will not improve the situation and just lead to Luke being resented.

• Remember that older siblings while more mature are still children. Ultimately the

responsibility for younger siblings is yours, not theirs. Similarly, older children will have different privileges than younger siblings, like staying up later. Don’t give in to the ‘Pester Power’ of the smaller ones and even things up in the name of fairness – because that’s not fair!

• As they grow, change and mature your children’s relationships with each other will change too. In the meantime, try to enjoy family activities that are fun for everyone.

Anne Marie Scanlon for Primary Times

When a new baby arrives...

It’s a truth universally acknowledged that everyone is overjoyed at the arrival of a new baby. For older siblings it’s not so simple.

Especially if until now they’ve been the only child. This new person has just disrupted their life and completely changed the family dynamic.

There are a few tricks to help children acclimatise to the new arrival. The baby is going to be inundated with presents and attention, so existing children should receive a gift from the baby, which will help take the sting out. These gifts don’t have to be extravagant or expensive, it’s just a simple way of letting the children know they are not being overlooked.

When Mum comes home from hospital, it’s best if someone else carries the baby. Mum needs free arms in order to hug and cuddle the other children.

Let the children ‘help’ with the baby. Children of any age can snuggle into Mum while she’s feeding the baby. Let the children hold the baby. (Obviously, with younger ones make sure they’re seated with an adult before handing the bundle over). Older children often derive a great deal of pleasure from helping to look after the baby.

Gently remind visitors to acknowledge the ‘big brothers’ and ‘big sisters’ as well as the new person.

PRIMARY TIMES 19/02/2016 10:06

08/03/2016 10:22:31

ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi The perfect solution East Worlington • Devon

Devonshire delight

The Detective Located in the Project offers fun middle of the crime scene invesbeautiful, rolling tigation events to Devon countryside, children aged 7 plus Yeatheridge Farm and adults through Caravan Park is a detective birthday family-run holiday Crediton, Devon EX17 4TN. Call 01884 860330 park designed Worlington, Eastparties, educational ridge.co.uk www.yeathe ridge.co.uk info@yeathe workshops and corwith families in mind. Its location is porate events. The Bristol-based comideal for those who want to explore pany is celebrating the five-year annithe whole of the county as both the versary of its founder Jenny Williams north and south Devon coastlines are and the appointment of its third franwithin an hour’s drive. chisee. Tim Marshall is covering the Whatever the weather, there is Wessex area, from Bath to Dorchester always something fun to do at the and Salisbury to Taunton. park, whether it’s splashing around “Customers love the originality of in one of the two heated indoor The Detective Project and our parties swimming pools or taking a pony ride are educational as well as entertainaround the farm. There is also plenty ing,” explains Jenny. “They are a great of space for children and adults to option when children are too old for enjoy the great outdoors. soft play or younger party ideas.”

Scrumptiously tasty meals are School events include after-school served up in The Bull Pen, the onclubs, science week workshops and site, fully licensed, family-friendly holiday activities. bar – which is perfect for those “My aim is that The Detective who fancy a break from the washProject will in time run across the UK, ing up. Yeatheridge Farm Caravan giving a wider audience the opporand Camping Park is located in East tunity to experience the challenge of Worlington near Crediton. being a detective.”

Ffi: Yeatheridge Farm Caravan and Ffi: The Detective Project Camping Park T: 01884 860330 T: 0117 244 0053 E: info@yeatheridge.co.uk W: www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk W: www.yeatheridge.co.uk

Ark life

HANDi for health

Spring is in the air at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Bristol. It’s the perfect season to watch nature come alive, with a host of animals enjoying the brighter weather including African elephants, white rhinos, big cats and some new additions this season ... Because if you go down to Noah’s Ark this Easter, you’re in for a big surprise ...

Spectacled bears are arriving at the zoo in March when you’ll be able to visit its Andean Adventure, the largest habitat for these animals in the UK. Noah’s Ark offers a fun visit all day in all weathers. If it’s rainy, you can enjoy the large play barns with heating in all indoor play and eating areas. The farm has also received a TripAdvisor certificate of excellence for the third year running – so take the family along to Bristol’s award-winning attraction and enjoy 15 adventure play areas, an indoor animal village and covered animal show pens.

Parents with young children will appreciate HANDi App, a new smartphone tool from the local NHS that offers simple and straightforward advice on what to do and who to contact when a child is unwell.

The app includes illness-specific home assessment guidelines for six common childhood illnesses including diarrhoea and vomiting, high temperature, chesty baby, chesty child, abdominal pain and common newborn problems. Each of the six illnesses has a homecare plan to help parents and carers provide the best support for their child and to give them confidence in caring for their children when they are unwell.

With an easy-to-use design, HANDi App gives parents and carers access to important healthcare information at any time from a smartphone or tablet.

The app is available for Android and iPhones and can be downloaded from Google Play, the iPhone app store or iTunes – just search for “HANDiApp”.

Ffi: Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm W: www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk

Ffi: HANDi app W: play.google.com, itunes.apple.com

16 Avon Pinboard Easter 2016.indd 25

news, education & contacts

Caravan & Camping Park

swimming | fishing | horse riding | walking | clubhouse with food

PRIMARY TIMES

Parents’ & teachers’

Let’s dance!

Vibe Dance Parties offer a fun personalised birthday experience for children of all ages.

The theme and music for the dance workshop and entertainment on the big day are chosen specifically by the birthday child and includes a specially choreographed routine to make it a personal experience. With Vibe Dance, every birthday child gets to be the star of the show with a special performance at the end of the party. Choosing their own games and party dances for the entertainment also helps to make it a special party experience. Vibe Dance also offer an ‘All Star Pamper’, adding glitter and sparkle to hair, nails and face before the performance. Themes Vibe have choreographed include ‘Pom Cheer’, ‘Frozen’, ‘Cinderella’, ‘Little Mix’, ‘Ribbon Twirling’ and ‘One Direction’, to name a few. Contact Vibe Dance to find out how you can make your child’s birthday go with a swing.

Ffi: Vibe Dance Parties T: 07773 571420 W: www.facebook. com/vibedanceparties

Clinic seeks donors Until you are faced with the prospect of infertility, it is difficult to appreciate what a blow it can be for someone who is desperate to start their own family.

Some women may not be able to conceive using their own eggs and will rely on the help of someone who is willing to donate their eggs to help.

The Bristol Centre for Reproductive Medicine supports patients throughout their fertility investigations, diagnosis and treatment, offering guidance and support at this time. It also provides a range of services, including IVF, ICSI, sperm and egg donation, treating both NHS and self-funded patients. In addition, the centre recruits its own egg donors. If you’re interested in becoming an egg donor, then the centre would be happy to discuss this with you. You can call them, leaving your name and number and they will get back to you.

Ffi: Bristol Centre for Reproductive Medicine T: 0117 414 6880 W: www.nbt.nhs.uk/bcrm

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Adver tising Feature

Adver tising Feature

Ready for a fresh start?

• Sarah Steel was looking for good quality childcare when she decided that her career could take a new direction. In 2002 Sarah started the first Old Station Nursery, using her background in the army and civilSarah Steel at work, while studying on the ian industry and her EYITT with the University of Glouc estershire experience as a parent as a starting point.

Sarah’s desire to enhance her own professional development more recently led her to register on the early years initial teacher training (EYITT) course at the University of Gloucestershire.

The EYITT programme offers a one-year, part-time, workbased course for graduates in any subject who also have a grade C in maths and English at GCSE. Fees of £7,000 are fully funded by the government so the student doesn’t have to pay anything, whilst a £7,000 grant is also given to the early years setting to support the student’s training.

Students spend approximately 30 days at university, attending stimulating lectures and interactive seminars on topics related to assignments. Successful completion of the course leads to 60 credits at masters level and early years teacher status.

So what’s it like? “I have to admit that I approached the return to study with some apprehension, as it is at least 15 years since I undertook any formal academic study, but it has been surprisingly enjoyable,” says Sarah. “It’s amazing how volunteering in your son or daughter’s pre-school can lead to a whole new career path!”

Ffi: University of Gloucestershire E: EYITT@glos.ac.uk W: www.glos.ac.uk

All change for Paddington!

• Spring is a great time to visit Avon Valley Railway.

During the Easter holidays the railway will be running its heritage steam and diesel trains daily (except Monday and Friday), with the first train departing each day at 11am.

Later in May, Avon Valley will be holding its annual family fun weekend which this year features guest appearances from none other than Paddington quite me beco have he d Mmm - Woul Bear. You’ll be able to see ol Brist at up d turne he’d if so famous him at intervals throughout Avon visits bear The s?

Temple Mead the weekend of 14 and 15 g.

Sprin this ay Valley Railw May. There’ll also be small fairground rides, face painting, magic shows and lots of bear-themed activities. And why not pop along to the buffet and enjoy a marmalade sandwich too? The local park & ride service will be in operation that weekend from Fry’s in Keynsham (keep an eye out for the road signs in the local area).

On Wednesday 13 April the railway will also be having another of its popular fish & chip evenings, hauled by one of its heritage diesel trains. You’ll get a large piece of home-battered cod and chips with mushy peas followed by an ice-cream dessert. Tickets cost £20 per adult and £14 per child and must be booked in advance via the ticket office on 0117 932 5538.

Ffi: Avon Valley Railway W: www.avonvalleyrailway.org

’s

www.bowood.org

Friday 25th March to Monday 28th March Open 11am to 5pm

30 EASTER 2016

16 Avon advertising features Easter 2016.indd 26

PRIMARY TIMES

08/03/2016 09:47:43

Adver tising Feature

Aquarium’s eggstravagant Easter!

• Spring has sprung undersea – This cute creature eventually so you can see baby seahorses turns into an adult shark and baby sharks this Easter.

Bristol Aquarium is home to thousands of sea creatures, from tropical sharks, stingrays, turtles and clownfish to seahorses, piranhas and much more.

This Easter holiday you can meet the aquarium’s latest arrivals in The Nursery, home to teeny-tiny baby seahorses, glass catfish and bamboo shrimp. Meet recently hatched baby sharks in the Sunken Shipwreck area and follow an “egg-cellent” trail quiz to discover what sea creature lays hundreds of thousands of eggs.

With 40+ naturally themed displays in eight themed zones, giant open-top ocean displays, including a wooden footbridge over the coral seas and an underwater walk-through tunnel, the aquarium gives you the chance to come face-to-face with Bolt the electric eel, Percy the giant Amazonian river fish, Ravioli the ray and much more – you’ll even find Nemo and Dory!

Don’t forget to climb inside the seahorse lighthouse bubble to experience the pot-bellied seahorses up close. As tickets are valid all day you can pop back in as many times as you like on the day of your visit – perfect to catch all the talks, feeds and school holiday activities.

Bristol’s Aquarium is also the only aquarium in the UK to feature a giant botanical house full of exotic plant and tree species from around the world and a walkthrough waterfall surrounded by orchids – for great photo opportunities!

The aquarium’s open daily and children under three go free.

Ffi: Bristol Aquarium T: 0117 929 8929 W: www.bristolaquarium.co.uk

Adver tising Feature

To re ac h t h o u s a n d s of f amil ie s in y o u r a r e a ...

... a d v e r t i s e i n t h e ne x t issue of P r i m a r y Ti m e s .

Not just a walk in the park

• Set in 40 acres of rolling Somerset countryside, family-run Puxton Park allows families to explore and learn whilst enjoying a fun day out full of adventure.

Awarded the Quality Rose Marque for the third year running

by Visit England and a TripAdvisor Bravo Badge, Puxton Park is recognised as a high-quality tourism venue. It is open throughout the year and offers a wide range of events and activities that reflect the time of the year and the British seasons.

Visitors can enjoy a round of crazy golf and a ride on the miniature railway, attempt the maze, explore the adventure playgrounds or play in the giant soft play barn. They can also meet the friendly farmyard animals and cuddle the rabbits and guinea pigs during feeding and petting times throughout the day.

The fun continues with live milking demonstrations in the cattle parlour, talks and photo opportunities in Meerkat Manor, daily flying displays at the falconry centre and a special owl encounter.

The farm shop and Meadows restaurant are open to the public without having to pay adventure park admission. Meadows offers an abundance of fresh, delicious homemade meals, while you can take home tasty treats from the farm shop food emporium.

Puxton Park prides itself on delivering a fun and educational family day out, providing local and homegrown produce in dining and retail and striving to exceed customer expectations: perfect ingredients for a family day out to remember.

Ffi: Puxton Park Cowslip Lane, Hewish BS24 6AH T: 01934 523500 W: www.puxton.co.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

16 Avon advertising features Easter 2016.indd 27

Contact Caroline on 0117 934 3737 caroline.stretton@localworld.co.uk

or Meloney on 0117 934 3076 meloney.rodney@localworld.co.uk EASTER 2016 31

08/03/2016 09:48:15

Adver tising Feature

Iron awe

10% OFF ENTRY WITH THIS VOUCHER

01285 885570 WWW.MAGICLAND.CO.UK * WITH THIS VOUCHER ONLY. VALID UNTIL 31ST MAY 2016. PHOTOCOPIES NOT ACCEPTED AND THIS VOUCHER MAY ONLY BE USED ONCE. PRITIMES

• Set in a beautiful Gloucestershire valley, Clearwell Caves is a former iron ore mine and natural cave system, closed in 1945 but now reopened to the public.

Although large scale mining ended after the war, ochre pigment is still mined on a small scale for artists’ paints.

The caves are a great experience for families and visitors of all ages. With its winding passageways opening into impressive caverns, the mysterious atmosphere has been noticed by the Easter fun at Clearwell BBC which has filmed episodes of ‘Dr Who’, ‘Merlin’, ‘DaVinci Demons’ and ‘Atlantis’ there. A small visitor centre welcomes you and there are mining displays throughout the nine caverns.

This Easter, the piglets look for their Easter Eggs: can you count how many there are throughout the caves? Correct entries are placed in a draw to win a super Easter prize. Entry sheets are free and included on entry.

Some fun percussion instruments, made using old mining equipment and positioned where visitors can play them, will sound amazing during your visit. Children (or adults) can experience the underground reverberations.

If you’re feeling really adventurous you might try a caving activity advertised on the caves’ website during the Easter holidays.

Exciting for adults and children aged 7 and over, the trips involve simple climbing and crawling far beyond the public pathways. An exhilarating experience for the family or as a great idea for a birthday treat.

There is an excellent gift shop selling unusual souvenirs, including minerals mined from the caves: a large picnic area, walks and newly refurbished café that has mining artefacts hanging from the ceiling. Car parking is free. A great adventure for all the family.

Ffi: Clearwell Caves W: www.clearwellcaves.com T: 01594 832535

Adver tising Feature

Follow the flock!

Discover a real Roman world beneath your feet

www.romanbaths.co.uk 32 EASTER 2016

16 Avon advertising features Easter 2016.indd 28

• Cattle Country in Berkeley in Gloucestershire is a great day out, come rain or shine, for children and adults too.

Best known for its indoor and outdoor play equipment, Cattle Country has a whole range of things to do and many animals to see.

Two huge barns house giant slides and loads of soft play equipment. Outdoor activities include two jumping pillows (one is reserved especially for under-fours), the UK’s tallest climbing net, a huge adventure castle, beach barn, Little Calves water play area, trampolines, ride-on mini tractors, a willow maze, mini golf and a boating lake, to name just a few.

In the animal experience centre you can get up close to the animals through seasonal shows and an events programme, as well as experience favourites like guinea pig handling and bottle feeding. The farm trail takes you on a relaxing walk around the site, passing by herds of rare-breed British cattle. You can also see the cattle up close on an educational tractor and trailer ride.

During the Easter holidays, find the egg-shaped clues dotted around the park for the chance to win free entrance tickets and then experience some breathtaking flying during falconry displays.

A restaurant provides full on-site catering and the gift shop offers a wide range of souvenirs for all ages and pockets.

Ffi: Cattle Country T: 01453 810510 W: www.cattlecountry.co.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

08/03/2016 09:48:34

Adver tising Feature

Explore the Roman world this Easter • The Roman Baths is a wonderful place for all the family to enjoy. Children can find out about Roman life through the children’s audio guide narrated

by Michael Rosen and dramatic computer reconstructions.

They can also meet Roman costumed characters and listen to their stories. There are two family activity trails which they can collect at the reception desk. For undersevens try the Roman Baths Trail and for over-sevens the Meet the Romans trail. Afterwards, enjoy a special treat in the Pump Room – a children’s tea with an Easter theme. Visit romanbaths.co.uk/ family-activities to find out more information.

Enjoy free family events over Easter Romans – healthy and happy? On Monday 4 April (10am-1pm & 2-4pm), you can find out what the Romans did to keep well. It’s all included in the admission price and there is no need to book.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free entry to local residents with a Discovery Card.

Have fun with Roman numerals online Play the new Know Your Numerals game at romanbaths.co.uk/ know-your-numerals. Beat the clock and download a certificate for each of the three levels. You can also be creative and add to the virtual hoard of Roman coins: have fun uploading your face and text onto your own Roman coin using the app at romanbaths.co.uk/virtualhoard. You can add your designs and share them with friends.

Ffi: The Roman Baths W: www.romanbaths.co.uk

Adver tising Feature

New life for old clothes • Did you know that 100 tonnes of secondhand clothing are exported for re-use each week from Bristol? Founded in 1972, Bristol Textile Recyclers (BTR) is currently the only textile recycler in the west of England, working with schools and charities throughout the west, Gloucestershire, the Midlands, the M4 corridor and Hertfordshire.

BTR works closely with 300 charity shops, helping with the recycling of their unsellable clothing, shoes, bags, belts, bric-a-brac and books. This helps the charities to further fundraise for their core cause as well as keep their stockroom clear for new donations.

BTR also works with schools, PTAs, community groups and other third-sector, non-profit organisations, helping them to fundraise through recycling by organising clothes drives and placing recycling banks at their premises.

To organise your own clothes drive, you can simply give BTR a call and arrange a date for collection. BTR will then provide a personalised leaflet to share with your students, parents and teachers to promote the drive. A friendly driver will then come by and collect on the agreed date, weighing the clothes brought in by parents and teachers for recycling and leaving you with a receipt so you know exactly how much the school has raised. BTR’s office team will also confirm this by email within five working days and payment will be made by BACS the following month.

If you would like to learn more about BTR, visit the website or contact the team to arrange a factory tour. In the meantime, you can take a peek behind the scenes with BTR’s video: https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=Kro-NdOP-1c Ffi: Bristol Textile Recyclers W: www.btr-ltd.co.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

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come and see, feed and stroke our beautiful fallow deer, our wonderful collections of peacocks, waterfowl, pheasants and the amusing pygmy goats... all very tame and will feed from your hand!

Prinknash Abbey Nr Painswick, Glos. GL4 8EX Open seven days days a week 10am - 5pm children under 2 years go FREE

thebirdpark.com for information please call T: 01452 812727

©LW

Take a LOOK at our

new website!

www.primarytimes.net EASTER 2016 33

08/03/2016 09:48:52

Hello Kids!

Thank you, as always, for the fantastic pictures you send me. This issue we’re all feeling a bit peckish here at Primary Times and we’ve teamed up with Foodies Festival which takes place on Bristol’s Downs this 13-15 May. The three young artists who send me the best picture about a delicious meal I will always remember will win a VIP family ticket to the event.

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 put your name, age, full home postal address (so we can send you the prize!) and school on the back. Deadline: Monday 18 April.

Arty Barty It’s wonderful to see your enthusiasm for art - whole classes sent me pictures of my favourite sport - and it was so hard to choose the best.

Well done to the winners who each get a book from the editor.

Tamika Rai, 10, s Saint Netheravon All hool, CofE Primary Sc Wiltshire likes Tamika obviously she lots of sport and re, has drawn four he ly. I carefully and cleverthe love the glitter on . gymnast’s outfit

WINNER!

Have fun!

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

WINNER!

Chiharu Foster, 10, Elmlea Junior School, Bristol AND Momoka Foster, 8, Elmlea Junior School, What a fantastic picture of a football shooting into the goal, the player’s foot just visible, and the spectators looking on. Full of energy and excitement. Chiharu’s sibling Momoka has also provided a wonderful, vibrant picture of a netball match. The colour illustrates what a thrilling game the characters are playing.

WINNER!

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WINNER!

Harikesh Rajanikanth, 5, Field Court C of E Infant Academy, Gloucestershire You can almost taste the sense of occasion in Harikesh’s picture of last year’s Rugby World Cup. I expect he thoroughly enjoyed the recent Six Nations tournament as well.

Maike Ye, 10, St John’s C of E Primary School, Bristol Maike is a football fanatic to the core, drawing this brilliant footballer in impeccable detail. The accoutrements like the trophy and medals show great attention to detail.

Primary School, Regi Horvathova, 6, St.Andrew`s Bath ially when the espec , Gymnastics is such an exciting sportdo this year. Regi has Olympics come round, which they etition, portraying the really caught the excitement of comp equipment brilliantly. movements of the gymnasts on their

Ruudi Annist-Kolanu , 9, Torwood House School AND Jemima Seagro, Bristol Torwood House School ve, 8, Torwood House School , Bristol special commendation deserves me drawings by an entfor sending With great difficulty I ire class! two by Ruudi and Jemchose these has offered a very unu ima. Ruudi a helicopter dropping sual view of pro gifts on marathon run motional ever increasing featureners – an these days, while Jem of sport ima has provided an inspired pict competing swimmers, ure of whose regular colours have abstract painting. Botthe feel of an h are exciting and well executed pict ures.

WINNER!

Nicholas are hool, Weston-super-M 8, Locking Primary Sc ished offering by mpl This is another acco ly won Nicholas, who recent regular contributor e th r fo ovide a picture a competition to pr s n’ re ild the popular ch latest packaging of done, Nicholas and keep ll treat Kinder Eggs. We up the good work!

PRIMARY TIMES

08/03/2016 13:26:52

e

he y.

Primary Times reviews the new releases.

Little creature, big message L

ittle Worm is fed up with eating mud and being bullied, and feels that there’s nothing special about him. Inspired by a grasshopper, he sets off on a journey around the world (and beyond!) to ask other animals what makes them special, in the hope that in doing so, he might find out what makes him unique. His journey takes us from the frozen wastes of the Arctic to the depths of the ocean and even the surface of the moon, but it’s only when he returns home that he finds the answer he’s looking for.

The illustrations by radical political cartoonist Polyp are a delight, with Little Worm donning a variety of costumes such as a tiny diving bell, aviator goggles and a spiffing moustache. There’s also a danger posed to each of the environments he visits that’s subtly hinted at in the background of the illustration, which is a great starting point for a discussion with kids about the dangers our planet is facing.

It may be a simple picture book but it has an important message that’s sensitively and intelligently delivered, making it a story that will stay with you long after you’ve put it down. (Helen Dorritt) Little Worm’s Big Question Schlunke and Polyp, £7.99, New Internationalist, www.newint.org

Doodles with attitude

Getting out more

Meet Doodle Cat, he’s one very proud drawing and “red like a really ripe tomato”. Join him on a colourful adventure showing us all the things he loves, from the stars and the ocean, to ice cream, doodling and his favourite rug. Definitely one for younger readers, there isn’t much text but what there is can easily be rattled through by young learners, inspiring them to pick up books and read on their own.

Lauren Marriott’s illustrations are truly delightful and, while quite simple, so full of colour and personality. There is also a nice message about celebrating difference and promoting self-esteem, prompting children to think about the things they love and what they like about themselves. The final pages offer some expanded information about some of Doodle Cat’s favourites with facts about stars, trees and even farts. Overall, a charmingly put together book perfect for little ones to enjoy reading alone.

(Ellen White)

It’s a family affair as teachers Tim and Kerry Meek launch themselves into the evening hours after school and work, with their daughters Amy and Ella, discovering hundreds of fun outdoor activities that don’t involve screens. This compendium of traditional, modern and undeniably healthy activities explores everything from foraging to star-gazing, performing to planting vegetables and appeals to the desire in all of us to creatively explore our natural habitat.

What Tim and Kerry don’t tell us is how, if you don’t have limitless supplies of energy, you’re supposed to fit this in with homework, chores, cooking and the general exhaustion that usually descends on families around tea time. But let’s not allow reality to get in the way of a great idea. These suggestions offer lots of excellent ways to give ourselves and our children a healthier, more fulfilling life. Even if you only manage to plan and carry out one of these activities in the next few months, it’ll be worth it. (Mike Gartside)

I Am Doodle Cat by Kat Patrick and Lauren Marriott, £9.99, Scribble, www.scribepublications.co.uk.

50 Evening Adventures Tim, Kerry, Amy and Ella Meek, £12.99, Frances Lincoln Ltd, www.quartoknows.com

Science made easy I was excited to discover this little tome, which explains clearly some of the fundamental discoveries of science, and the forces that shape our world. It describes how the universe is widely understood to have formed in a “Big Bang”, and maps out simply the enormous timeline from the formation of planets, through the first life forms, to dinosaurs and then humans.

Written by Belgian educationalist Catherine de Duve (a fact which ought to have been flagged more prominently in this book itself - I discovered it online), this guide takes a refreshingly Euro-centric approach to science, highlighting the role that non-English scientists played in things like the development of the dynamo or the discovery of Antarctica.

I also like its interactive elements, including little quizzes and the chance to draw rockets to the stars, which children will love.

Unfortunately the illustrations, by de Duve herself, are clunky and uninspiring, and I was disappointed that the answer to the Morse code puzzle hadn’t been translated from its original French – an irritating oversight if the book is to appeal to British schools. Nonetheless, this guide remains a handy help when explaining concepts to children like atoms, electricity and evolution. (Mike Gartside) The Little Guide to Science Catherine de Duve, €9.95 (£7.70), www.kateart.com

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Totally roar-some!

Calling all budding palaeontologists!

If you want to learn more about dinosaurs, then you need to get your claws on a new series of books, ‘What’s So Special About…?’ Aimed at 6 to 10 year olds, the series takes an in-depth look at a variety of these magnificent creatures and combines beautiful anatomical illustrations alongside fun facts about each dinosaur, such as the period they lived in, what they ate and which dinosaurs shared the land with them.

Children will love finding out a whole heap of fun facts, such as what each dinosaur’s weapons are, rated out of ten, and which modern animal they’re most similar to, while parents can appreciate that all the information is backed by palaeontological research, so reading one is a great learning experience. The four books in the series at the moment cover tyrannosaurus rex, stegosaurus, coelophysis and ankylosaurus, and since the latter are two of the lesser-known dinosaurs, adults can learn a lot from reading these, too. If your kids (or you!) want to find out more, there’s also a dedicated website for the series at www.specialdinosaurs. com. (Helen Dorritt) What’s So Special About...? Nicky Dee, £5.99, Dragonfly Group Ltd, www.dragonflypubs.com

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08/03/2016 12:51:25

Come,

Eurocamp

W

hile many households have enjoyed the benefits of the “staycation” in recent years, the allure of the wider world still beckons for any family that wants their children to experience different cultures and countries. Taking children abroad doesn’t have to be stressful, and there’s a range of holidays out there to suit any taste or budget, whether it’s camping under the stars or a private villa just for you and your family.

First, banish those images of pitching a tent in the pouring rain.

Camping is a great option for those on a budget seeking some much needed sun. Eurocamp is perhaps the best known of the family campsite operators abroad, although there are plenty of others. If you go for the canvas option, tents are already pitched, meaning you face no faffing about with poles and equipment on arrival, and even their most basic models come with proper beds, electricity and a grill and gas hob. They also offer mobile homes and cabins if you’re not ready to get too close to the great outdoors. The Domaine des Ormes campsite in Brittany, France, costs £609 (prices based 36

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fly Legoland, Berlin

on early July) for seven nights in a classic tent, which can accommodate up to six people. They offer a range of activities to keep the kids entertained, from horse riding to high wire adventure courses and kids’ clubs for all age brackets.

Plus, with an impressive five outdoor and covered swimming pools, six waterslides, jacuzzi and sauna, parents can unwind safe in the knowledge the kids are having fun.

W: www.eurocamp.co.uk If a city break is more your scene, Berlin has so much to offer and plenty to do for little ones.

Germany’s capital has a vibrant cultural scene with plenty of museums and art galleries, and “kindercafes” (kids’ cafes) unique to the city, bringing together stylish décor with play spaces and other activities. It’s worth buying a Berlin Pass for your trip. Providing access to over 60 of the city’s top attractions it’s value for money at €93 (£71) for adults and €49 (£38) for children for a two day pass (the current poor exchange rate notwithstanding). Highlights include the Legoland Discovery Centre, designed specifically for 3-10 year olds to enjoy, Sealife Berlin, Madame Tussaud’s and, for the

away

From camping and kindercafés to island luxury, Ellen White reports on the holiday options abroad for families ready to spread their wings.

brave, learn about gruesome history at the Berlin Dungeon. At the time of writing, the Scandic Berlin Kurfürstendamm had availability in August for a four day stay with a family of four at €488 (£375).

W: www.berlinpass.com www.scandichotels.com Spain remains a popular destination for family holidays, offering reliably hot temperatures and budget friendly prices. Selfcatering villas are great value for money, the La Lavande villa in Lanzarote promises a ‘home from home’ feel and includes a private pool and jacuzzi to relax in once the kids have gone to bed.

Half an hour up the coast are several child-friendly beaches, Bastian Beach stands out for small children, being easily accessible, protected from the wind and near to the resort’s Aquapark and tod-

dler area. Hiring the villa costs £1,100 per week via Tots to Travel, based on dates in July or August.

Every property on the website includes essential family equipment such as high chairs, child’s steps, blackout blinds, night lights and toys.

W: www.totstotravel.co.uk If you want to push the boat out (or dream of your own island paradise), the five star Constance Bell Mare Plage in Mauritius offers a stunning location, set amongst 20 acres of tropical gardens and white, sandy beaches protected by an offshore coral reef. The resort includes four swimming pools, two whirlpools, mini golf and water sport activities from wind surfing to snorkelling plus a kids’ club.

Sovereign offers 7 nights from the 26 Jul for £4,683, flying from Heathrow. W: www.sovereign.com

Villa life at La Lavande (see also, right)

PRIMARY TIMES

08/03/2016 10:24:52

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enquiries@wapleystables.co.uk www.wapleystables.co.uk Wapley Hill, Westerleigh, Bristol. BS37 8RJ 01454 321583 or 07860530199 EASTER 2016 37

04/03/2016 11:32:41

Tayna (left) talks to a tea

farmer in Kenya

ST PETER’S HITS THE MARK

T

he enthusiastic way one primary school in Bishopsworth, Bristol, has encouraged pupils to get involved with sport has earned it the city’s first Gold School Games Mark. St Peter’s C of E Primary School was awarded the accolade for offering its pupils 16 sports to take part in and creating seven links with local specialist clubs, as well as entering eight teams into local competitions. The School Games Mark is a government-led scheme rewarding schools for developing competition both at school and in the community. As well as football, netball and gymnastics St Peter’s offers archery, Judo, street dance, climbing, cross country running and cycling. More than half of children at the school participate in sport outside of usual PE lessons, which is encouraged by students becoming ‘games makers’ to help guide the choice of sports and develop leadership skills. The school’s sporting ambitions even rubs off on the parents, who can take part in post dropoff netball sessions.

“We believe that we can make sport appeal-

ing to all our children by taking extra steps to broaden what is on offer,” says St Peter’s head Livvy Sinclair-Gieben. “Our staff give up a lot of their own time to offer traditional sports as well as activities such as street dance, archery and tennis. We also are really lucky to have a Judo specialist every Friday morning.”

Cherry Kraus, who manages the local School Sport Partnership through Bristol’s Ashton Park School points out, “A recordbreaking number of schools applied for bronze, silver or gold awards last year. St Peter’s can consider itself a shining example of commitment to school sport.”

Ffi: School Games Mark W: www.yourschoolgames.com

CLIMATE CHANGE IN CLASS

A

new resource exploring climate change and its impact on farmers in developing countries has been produced by the Fairtrade Foundation for key stage two teachers to use in the classroom.

‘My Next Fairtrade Adventure’ includes a short video and supporting materials and is available to download (website below).

The free resource features Tayna, a 14-year-old student from London, who visits tea farmers at a Fairtrade co-operative in Kenya to find out how climate change affects tea production and how Fairtrade can help. Through Tayna’s experiences, children have the opportunity to learn about the lives of tea farmers, what causes food and water shortages in developing countries and discuss why the issue matters to people in the UK. Joanna Milis, education campaigns manager at the Fairtrade Foundation, says: “Climate change is currently one of the greatest

challenges for people around the world and, in particular, for the people who grow some of the foods we eat every day. “‘My Next Fairtrade Adventure’ is a brilliant way to get students engaged in learning and understanding the causes and consequences of climate change, as well as deepening their knowledge about the difference Fairtrade makes. Beyond generating financial impacts, Fairtrade supports farmers to adapt to changing climate and promotes the use of environment-friendly farming. The resource is bound to initiate interesting eye-opening discussions in many classrooms across the UK.” ‘My Next Fairtrade Adventure’ follows ‘My Fairtrade Adventure’, which was published last year and is designed to help students understand global trade.

Ffi: My Next Fairtrade Adventure W: www.fairtrade.org.uk/schools

ROAD MAP TO LITERACY

F

ormer head teacher, lecturer and English inspector Pie Corbett has teamed up with author and literacy professional Julia Strong to create a new teaching resource designed to inspire language and storytelling in young children. ‘Talk for Writing in the Early Years’ uses rhyme and a technique called story mapping to introduce 2 to

5year olds to storytelling, widely recognised as a key factor in language development.

Based on the concepts of imitation, innovation and invention, ‘Talk for Writing’ teaches language and writing in memorable patterns, allowing children a series of templates on which to base their own stories.

According to head teacher Sarah Collymore, the book is “A fun, practical, downto-earth guide to teaching stories and rhymes to young children and their families … a must have for all early years practitioners.”

Nursery teacher and assistant head Claire Underwood describes it as, “Jam-packed full of ideas, activities and suggestions to develop your current practice. I felt like I was having a personal ‘masterclass’ from Pie himself as he shared his storytelling skills.”

Talk For Writing In The Early Years: How to teach story and rhyme, involving families 2-5 years

by Pie Corbett & Julia Strong, £34.99 is available from Open University Press.

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EASTER 2016

16 Avon Features Easter 2016.indd 16

Members of the Bristol Men in Early Years

A

Network

A ROLE FOR MEN

group of male teachers, practitioners and professionals from Bristol are encouraging more men to consider a career in early years teaching. The Bristol Men in Early Years Network is designed to provide support for men working in any capacity with children up to the age of seven. It acts as a professional forum and works to unpick common misperceptions. Across the country around 98% of the early years workforce are female and only around 2% are male.

The network meets quarterly at St Werburgh’s Park Nursery School and is chaired by Jay Ramsey. He said: “Despite research showing that children can benefit from having positive male role models in their lives, there’s still a lack of understanding about what early years teaching involves.

The common perception is that working with young children is

a job for women. Male members of staff can often face prejudice and people think they’re strange for wanting to work with young children. So the Early Years Network is there to tackle these issues and support teachers throughout their careers.

The Bristol Men in Early Years Network was established a year ago and now has more than 50 members. The group has shared best practice between nurseries and children’s centres on a variety of subjects including: involving fathers; child protection; rough play; beach school; changing policies; Forest School; back care; cultural and parental perceptions.

The network recently received funding from Bristol City Council to support its work.

Ffi: Bristol Men in Early Years Network W: www. bristolearlyyearsresearch.org.uk PRIMARY TIMES

08/03/2016 10:29:27

PRIMARY TIMES

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04/03/2016 11:09:34

Our new Performing Arts Centre will be opening in September 2016.

“...excellence in all it does within and beyond the classroom...”

ISI Inspection Report, October 2015

Whole School

Open Morning

re ntu e v Ad

Friday 13 May 2016 10.00am–12.00 noon Daily Visits and Taster Days

available on various dates during term-time.

Fr ie

To book your place or to request further information, please call Hollie Skerritt on 0117 933 9885 or e-mail recruitment@bgs.bristol.sch.uk.

s hip s nd

Learning

Infant and Junior S Prospectus

Life changing 26

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EASTER 2016

PRIMARY TIMES

04/03/2016 11:10:16