Primary Times Avon Whitsun 2015

in Avon Issue 190 22 May-19 Jul 2015

Also

City farms Performing arts Private tuition

It’s all happening at the

Harbour

Download the Primary Times app, free! Page 3

Primary Times reveals details of the fabulous family fun at Bristol Harbour Festival this July. Page 4.

Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

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Summer

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Info

Camps run daily from 9.30am - 3.30pm Appropriate for ages 5 - 11 Take Home Gie Every Day! 5 Exciang Weeks of Programming! extended

rAPaROUND CaRe Available at select locaaons and dates Look for the Wraparound Care Logo Extended Wraparound Care runs from 8.30am - 5.00pm | + £5 per CHILD / DAY

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May Half Term is the time we really spring into summer, with holidays on the horizon and the West’s cities declaring themselves “en fête”: Bath’s International Music Festival and Fringe is in full swing, Bristol Harbour Festival is upon us in July, while Gloucester ‘s biennial Tall Ships Festival sets sail right now. Find family highlights of these events and others in Roundabout (P13).

In our features we explore the benefits city farms bring to our communities (P31), how extra tuition can help children of all abilities (P21) and the thrills and spills , for children and parents, of performing arts schools (P6). Have a great break!

THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P13 PINBOARD P23 ADVERTISING FEATURES P26 PUPILS’ PAGE P34 CLASSIFIEDS P37 A STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT P6 Jack Reader discovers the opportunities offered by performing arts schools.

HELP WHERE IT’S NEEDED P21 Stuart Simner on private tuition.

CITY FARMS P31 Avon iin A Jul 2015 22 May-19 Issue 190

the editor

Jayne Randall on these valuable initiatives.

Also City farms arts Performing n Private tuitio

It’s all g happenin at the

Harbour

Download ry the Prima Times app, 3 free! Page

of als details Times reve fun at Bristol Primary family July. Page 4. the fabulous Festival this Harbour

Theatre • Arty

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

Save money! ndabout • Barty • Rou

Primary Times in Avon

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

Editor Mike Gartside

mike.gartside@b-nm.co.uk Commercial director Abbie Grant

abbie.grant@b-nm.co.uk

0117 934 3626 Advertising Caroline Stretton

caroline.stretton@b-nm.co.uk

0117 934 3737 Distribution Juliet Hobbs

01242 278053

juliet.hobbs@localworld.co.uk Design Cath Evans, Mike Gartside Production Emma Gorton, Ruth Wood Proof reading Ellen White Main office 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 Bristol News & Media 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 Bristol News & Media.

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

PRIMARY TIMES

15 Avon contents May Half Term 2015.indd 3

Find these amazing offers this issue!

Avon Lawn Tennis Association - Try tennis for free Bristol Aquarium - Kids go free voucher Cattle Country - Book online and save Leap of Faith - buy two activities, get one free with advert Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm - £2 off admission ss Great ss Great B ritain Britain Trust - Free events and tours Table Table - Kids eat free this half term MAY HALF TERM 2015

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Pic: Paul Box

Brist ol Ha Festi rbour F v www. ri 17-Sun al brist olhar 19 July bo co.uk urfestiva l.

It’s all happening at the

Harbour

Central Bristol bursts into life this July when the Bristol Harbour Festival welcomes the world to the city’s docks for a free weekend of waterthemed culture. Primary Times discovers a feast of family fun.

L

fountains. Funded by Arts Council England, the artwork is part of Bristol 2015’s European Green Capital programme to help make sustainable living accessible and easy to understand.

ong established as the biggest family festival in the city, Bristol Harbour Festival is a huge free extravaganza of circus, music, theatre, dance and children’s entertainment. The festival welcomes 250,000 visitors and over 250 boats to the harbour each year, which form the backdrop for thrills and spills on the water, including jet skiing, cardboard boat races and lifesaving skills.

PUERTO DE HAPPINESS A new Happy City area pops up in Mud Dock with two music stages provided by local venue the Thekla and arts organisation Bristol Plays Music. This feelgood family space, right next to the water, features a stage created in collaboration with the city’s largest young people’s music organisations, showcasing Bristol’s brightest new music stars. The area takes visitors on a journey through Bristol music over the ages.

FAMILY HEAVEN ON COLLEGE GREEN The festival’s dedicated family area returns to College Green, where Cirque Bijou, Bristol’s hugely popular circus company, thrills visitors with some beautiful aerial acts, street theatre, contemporary circus and daredevil stunts. Comedy is always on the agenda, building up to the festival’s famous Balloon Toss. Created by Bristol’s own Desperate Men, teams of two line up to toss a water balloon between themselves in a bid to throw the longest distance. The area has a 4

MAY HALF TERM 2015

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green theme, with a cycle-powered sound, circus workshops, a cycle-powered smoothie maker, scalextric, litter art installations and miniature garden workshops.

DANCE VILLAGE AT LLOYDS AMPHITHEATRE Perhaps the biggest free dance event in the South West, Bristol Harbour Festival’s Dance Village is hosted in the impressive Lloyds Amphitheatre overlooking the docks this year. It promises a dazzling array of dance from local, regional and national companies. This year the festival features Stopgap Dance, one of the UK’s leading inclusive dance companies, which creates exhilarating work with disabled and non disabled dancers and performs its new outdoor work ‘Bill & Bobby’, a tribute to Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire’s ‘Show Time’. Trash Dollys perform ‘Cape Alley’, where a ragtag band of

outlaws dance to their own strange tune.

Over at the Participation Stage, in Millennium Square, visitors will be encouraged to try something new, from flamenco to swing, Zumba, African and contemporary dance styles.

RIBA ARCHITRUCK In the city centre, there’s an ambitious attempt to create the world’s largest colouring book. This Guinness World Record attempt is staged by the architectural initiative the RIBA Architruck and features a vast picture book of Bristol buildings, created by Hobbs Reprographics, with artwork by local artists. Local architects’ practices will lay on a family activity like creating a Lego Bristol.

Ffi: Bristol Harbour Festival W: www.bristolharbourfestival. co.uk Tw: @Bristolharbfest Fb: www.facebook.com/ bristolharbourfestival

MUSIC APLENTY Queen Square hosts the Friday night opening concert and is the hub of music over the weekend, with dozens of live bands entertaining the crowds. There’s also plenty of music on offer with stages in place at Cascade Steps, Grain Barge, Louisiana, Thekla and ss Great Britain.

THE BRISTOL WHALES Friday 17 July sees the unveiling of The Bristol Whales, a temporary art installation to mark Bristol’s status as European Green Capital.

In Millennium Square, two whales will swim together in the water PRIMARY TIMES

05/05/2015 10:02:23

10 P O T ristol in B

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01/05/2015 14:03:14

A stage of

development

The region’s performing arts schools provide wonderful opportunities for children to discover extra-curricular skills such as dance, drama and teamwork, says Jack Reader.

T

he journey from impressionable child to well-adjusted, fully fledged adult is a long and potentially difficult path. Children have an entire world to discover and learn: including language, numeracy, critical thinking, manners and social skills, as well as artistic, creative and physical abilities. It’s a big challenge for kids, their families and teachers alike.

A performing arts school is a great way to get kids involved in activities that they might not come across in other areas of their life.

Schools are more focused on teaching literacy, numeracy and the sciences, so performing arts schools offer a great opportunity to get children involved in drama, singing and dancing.

There are many different performing arts schools to choose from in the Avon area. The Bristol School of Performing Arts (BSPA) is one of the most well-known, with over 40 years’ experience as well as extensive industry contacts through company director John Redgrave.

John has worked with an impressive array of stars including Tom Jones, Bruce Forsyth and Michael Parkinson. The school teaches a number of different classes to children from age two and a half upwards.

BSPA’s philosophy is “education through performance” and John is keen to highlight the importance of performing arts in supplementing children’s school experience. “Some say performing arts training is just for building confidence and letting children come out of their shell,” he says. “But if it leads to a career, it’s [as good as a school] subject.” He emphasises how performing artists can lead very fruitful careers, making it a beneficial addition to the school curriculum.

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ideas and throwing them around instead of holding to prescribed ways of learning.”

So, if you want to help your child acquire skills and confidence that they might not develop in school, it might be worthwhile to think about enrolling in one of Avon’s many great performing arts schools.

Bristol School of Performing Arts T: 07714 495373 W: www.bspa.biz The Story Cellar T: 01275 373232 W: www.thestorycellar.co.uk Stagecoach W: www.stagecoach.co.uk Students taking part in The Story Cellar’s February half term project. Pic Edward Felton.

Stagecoach (inc. inset)

Studying performing arts at BSPA has many advantages compared to school-based drama lessons, he says. “Students are taught by performers who have been on stage on the West End. You won’t find that at a normal school, where drama is only taught an hour a week on the side by English or music teachers.” BSPA boasts top-quality teaching with professional actors and strong links to professional theatres like the Bristol Hippodrome.

Another major performing arts institution, Stagecoach, has many schools in the Avon area. With over 20 years of experience and more than 300 franchised schools, Stagecoach provides expert teaching. Heidi Hollis, principal of Stagecoach’s Bristol South West school emphasises, “Creative engagement, problem solving and strong communication skills which enhance engagement with any learning opportunity.”

“Stagecoach allows children to experiment and develop them-

selves creatively, by taking account of their individuality in a low-pressure environment,” she says. Stagecoach teachers can nurture students in ways that just aren’t possible in school classes of 30 kids. “Does coming to Stagecoach help children’s overall development and education?

Almost without exception.”

Based in Bristol, The Story Cellar founded by Liz Hague has a different method of teaching performing arts. With 16 years of experience under her belt, Liz focuses on the storytelling aspects of drama rather than the performing itself.

“The Story Cellar is all about being innovative,” she says, “playing with PRIMARY TIMES

05/05/2015 10:04:04

Junior School Visiting Morning Wednesday 20 May

FESTIVAL OF NATURE festivalofnature.org.uk

Bristol: 13–14 June Bath: 27 June

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For more information please contact:

Mrs Lynn McCabe

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Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9 4DP

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Direct student minibus from Clifton

PRIMARY TIMES

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05/05/2015 12:07:56

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

BATH THE EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www.theatreroyal.org.uk Kid Carpet and the Noisy Neighbours Thu 21-Sat 23 May, 10am/1pm (Thu/Fri), 11.30am/3pm (Sat), £6.50-£7.50 • Ed Patrick aka Kid Carpet presents a new original show using music, puppetry and projection, looking at what it’s like to move to a new house in the city and find your place there.

Puss in Boots Mon 25-Fri 29 May, 11.30am & 3pm (Fri 11.30am only), £6.50-£7.50 • CBeebies’ Patrick Lynch is joined by the smartest cat anyone could wish for as he fools the King and puts his master at the top. A host of puppets, a working windmill and tons of fun await.

Glow Sat 30 May, 10.30am, 3.30pm (suitable up to 4s) & 1.30pm (suitable for 3-12 month-olds), £6.50£7.50 • Open the curtain and step into a magical world filled with playful light, interactive performance, live music and dynamic scenery.

No Sweets Sun 31 May-Mon 1 Jun, 2pm (31 May), 10.30am (1 Jun), £6.50-£7.50 • It’s Mikey’s first day at the radio factory, but instead of getting on with his job he wants to tumble around. That is until he bumps into his scary new boss.

Thankfully, Mikey makes a most unlikely friend following a mysterious signal picked up by the radio.

In a performance which combines theatrical clowning with spectacle, this production should delight and entertain both children and parents. Ages 3+ The Bockety World of Henry & Bucket Fri 5 Jun-Sat 6 Jun, 10am &1pm (5 Jun)/11.30am & 3pm (6 Jun), £6.50-£7.50 • When Henry and Bucket are the best of friends they can whisk themselves out of their dusty, beaten-up world with magical adventures. But, like all good friends, Henry and Bucket have their off days, when they’d prefer to be separate, rather go on an adventure. This play offers a humorous exploration of friendship. Ages 4+ Home Sun 7 Jun-Tue 9 Jun, 11.30am, 3pm (7 Jun), 10am, 1pm (8-9 Jun), £6.50-£7.50 • Italian company La Baracca returns with a story of a child and an adult. Their meeting heralds the development of a friendship and a story which includes them building a house and home together. Ages 1-5.

Big Red Bath Sat 13 Jun, 11.30am & 3pm, £6.50-£7.50 • This colourful and humourous adaption of the 8 MAY HALF TERM 2015

15 Avon Theatre listings May Half Term 2015.indd 8

The Bockety World of Henry and Bucket, the egg, Bath, Fri 5 Jun-Sat 6 Jun

riotous Julia Jarman and Adrian Reynolds story book follows Ben and Bella on their adventurous bath time escapades as they travel around the world and back home again with their many animal friends. Ages 2+ THEATRE ROYAL Sawclose, Bath, BA1 1ET. 01225 823409, www.theatreroyal.org.uk Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat Until Sun 29 Mar, 7.30pm (Tue-Thu), 2.30pm, (Wed & Thu), 5pm & 8pm (Fri & Sat), 2pm (Sat), 1.30pm & 4.30pm (Sun), £17-£34 • A starstudded performance features X-Factor finalists, who retell the biblical story of Joseph, his 11 brothers and his dazzlingly colourful coat. A Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber production.

BRISTOL THE BREWERY THEATRE 291 North Street, Southville, Bristol BS3 1JP. 0117 902 0344, www. tobaccofactorytheatre.com The Boy On The Swing Tue 19-Sat 23 May, 7.45pm (Tue-Fri), 2.30pm (Sat), £8-£12 • An out of this world experience that brings Earl Hunt to a face to face with God. For believers and non-believers alike, this play will challenge your deepest views on life and happiness. Age 10+ Nutty Noah: Wear Your Pants With Pride Tue 26-Sun 31 May, 11am/2pm, £7 • Nutty Noah is back with another hilariously wild show, packed full with pants, magic, music and audience participation.

Hetty Feather, Fri 17-Sun 19 July, Bristol Old Vic. Pic Donald Cooper.

This is a real must see, and is suitable for ages 4+.

THE BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org. uk Hetty Feather Fri 17-Sun 19 Jul, 5.30pm (Fri), 11am/3pm (Sat/Sun), £10-£27.50 • Based on the novel

by Jacqueline Wilson, this thrilling period-drama plots Hetty’s adventures as she escapes from the Foundling Hospital where she was left as a baby and tries to find her real mother and family.

Medusa Tue 7-Sat 11 Jul, 10.30am/1.30pm (Tue-Fri), 2pm/5pm (Sat), £7.50-£12 • A retelling of Greek myths, this high-octane play pits King Theseus against the evil Medusa in a quest to seek the answers needed to save his son and heir.

This play is from the same people as last year’s Minotaur, and is family friendly and perfect for ages 7+.

THE BRISTOL HIPPODROME St. Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www.atgtickets. com/bristol Jersey Boys Tue 26 May-Sat 13 Jun, 7.30pm, £21.90-£58.40 • Starring Tim Driesen (or Matt Corner at certain performances) as Frankie Valli. This remarkable true story charts the rise of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons from the wrong side of the tracks to stardom. These four New Jersey boys became one of the most successful bands in pop history, selling 175 million records worldwide before they turned 30.

The Sound Of Music Mon 22 Jun-Sat 4 Jul, 7.30pm (Mon-Tue), 2.30pm/7.30pm (Wed), 7.30pm (Thu-Fri), 2.30pm/7.30pm (Sat), £23.40-£48.90 • Featuring BBC TV’s Over The Rainbow winner Danielle Hope and the Olivier-Award nominated Steven Houghton, star in this classic musical whose iconic songs tell the tale of the Von Trapp family’s escape from Austria and the Nazis.

Sing-Along-A-Frozen Sun 12 Jul, 10.30am/2.30pm/6pm, £16.90 • A live host introduces the full screening of Disney’s smash film ‘Frozen’. Features a free prop bag and lyrics shown on screen so the audience can join in with all their favourite songs.

Ages 5+.

Oklahoma Tue 14-Sat 18 Jul, 7.30pm (Tue/Fri), 2.30pm/7.30pm (Wed/Thu/Sat), £12.90-£43.40 • From the producers of ‘The King & I’ and ‘Fiddler On The Roof’, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Western classic celebrates the » PRIMARY TIMES

05/05/2015 10:41:05

Stand in the footsteps of prehistoric man, Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Normans, kings, queens and soldiers.

BRING THE CURRICULUM TO LIFE

Our sites can draw your pupils deeper into multiple time periods within the history curriculum.

0370 333 0606

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Cowtastic Half Term Fun! Farm themed play, meet the animals, trailer rides and more!

Open from 9am every day at Farrington’s Farm Shop.

Find us just off the A362, Farrington Gurney.

BS39 6UB.

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20 - 21 June 10am - 5pm Book in advance and save £££s

A thriller of a weekend!

Don’t forget to come dressed as a knight or princess.

Joust display (2 shows each day) Puppet shows Storytelling Junior jousting skills Juggling Armourer Medieval encampment

www.cardiffcastle.com PRIMARY TIMES

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029 2087 8100 MAY HALF TERM 2015 9

01/05/2015 14:11:25

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

»

pioneering spirit of the USA, and features a large cast with full live orchestra and loads of feel-good songs.

BRISTOL ZOO GARDENS Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA. 0117 ������������������������ 974 7399, www.bristolzoo.org.uk A Midnight’s Summer Dream Thu 25 Jun, 7.30pm, £6-£12 • Enjoy Shakespeare in the surroundings of Bristol Zoo Gardens in this production featuring Tudor-style costumes and with an original musical score.

With playful fairies, funny travelling players and puppet woodland creatures, this promises to be a hilarious mid-summer evening’s entertainment.

Mr Stink Sat 11 Jul, 6.30pm, £7-£14 • This performance, adapted from David Walliams’s acclaimed novel, explores the unlikely friendship between Chloe Crumb and a stinky old man, as Chloe emerges from under the shadow of her disapproving father and her high-achieving, overpowering sister.

COLSTON HALL Colston Hall, Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5AR. 0844 887 1500, www.colstonhall.org Catapluf’s Musical Journey Mon 25 May, www.colstonhall.org. 3.15pm, £7.53 • Catapluf uses his imagination to travel to places where everything is musical – saucepans, water, even the human body, in a fun-filled concert for children aged 5 to 7. The show is packed with music from every corner of the globe as well as plenty of ideas to take home.

The Tiger Who Came To Tea Tue 25-Sun 30 Aug, 11am and 2pm, £11.83-£13 • Judith Kerr’s much loved book is brought to life on stage.

Join Sophie and her mummy as they sit down to tea, only to be disturbed by someone at the door. The last thing they expect is a big, stripy tiger!

THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE High Street, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, BS23 1HP. 01934 645544, www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk Sway Dance Show Sat 13 Jun, 6pm, £9 • Hutton Moor Leisure Centre’s Sway Dancers take to the stage with a dazzling array of drama, music and dances including street, breakdance, ballet, jazz and musical theatre. This features 160 talented young performers on stage.

Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom Sat 20-Sun 21 Jun, 1pm/4pm (Sat), 10am/1pm (Sun), £13-£17 • This magical musical tale of fairy princesses and elves includes games, songs and enchanting adventures .

THE 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.

Grease Wed 27-Sat 30 May. Bristol Amateur Operatic Society Youth, 07927 382668, www.ticketsource. co.uk/baosbristol. 7.30pm and 2.30pm (Sat), £12.50-£14.50 • BAOS Youth are back, bringing the swinging 1950s to Bristol. Featuring hit songs from the film including ‘Summer Nights’ and ‘Greased 10 MAY HALF TERM 2015

15 Avon Theatre listings May Half Term 2015.indd 10

Big Red Bath, the egg, Bath, Sat 13 Jun. Pic Shaun Armstrong, Mubsta Photography

Lightning’, dust off your leather jackets and pink skirts for a night of rock and roll.

Our House Tue 2-Sat 6 Jun, Bristol Musical Comedy Club, 07449 120137, www.ticketsource.co.uk/bmcctickets, 7.30pm & 2.30pm (Sat), £10-£14 • On his 16th birthday, Joe Casey has to make a difficult decision which could lead to disastrous consequences. Bristol Musical Comedy Club brings us a heart-warming tale featuring the music of Madness.

ST. GEORGE’S BRISTOL Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR. 0117 925 3333, www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk Bristol Youth Choir Seniors Wed 24 Jun, 7.30pm, £2-£8 • The senior members from what was the Bristol Schools Chamber Choir perform two of Vivaldi’s most stunning choral pieces.

Bristol Youth Choir Juniors & Intermediates Thu 25 Jun, 7pm, £2-£6 • The younger members of the former Bristol Schools Chamber Choir performs pieces with an environmental theme, including songs from Bob Chilcott’s ‘Green Songs’.

BBC Young Musician 2014 Finalists Competition Sat 27 Jun, 4pm, £6-£10 • Three of the finalists from last year’s Young Musician of the Year offer a rare opportunity to see the classical music stars of the future.

THE TOBACCO FACTORY Raleigh Rd, Avon, Bristol, BS3 1TF. 0117 902 0060. www.tobaccofactory.com Around the World in 80 Days Wed 1-Sat 18 Jul, £7-£13 • Phileas Fogg and his faithful servant Passepartout plan an audacious voyage around the globe in just 80 days. One of the best-known literary journeys is undertaken with only a bag full of money, a pocket watch and a wager to win.

Dick Tracy Thu 28-Sat 30 May, 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Sat), £12 • La Navet Bete’s tale of criminal capers and physical comedy throws police chief Dick Tracy into riotous action in this hilarious, slapstick production.

Ages 7+.

FURTHER AFIELD EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk Aliens Love Underpants Mon 27-Tue 28 Jul, 11am (Tue only), 2pm and 4.30pm, £12.50 • Based on the best-selling books by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort, the aliens are brought to life on stage with madcap action and original music.

FRAMPTON COURT ESTATE Frampton on Severn, Gloucestershire, GL2 7EP, 01452 740698, www.framptoncourtestate. co.uk Giffords Circus Thu 30 Jul-Mon 3 Aug, 5pm/7.30pm (Thu & Fri), 11am/2.30pm/7.30pm (Sat & Sun), 1pm (Mon), £14-£22 • This quirky

touring circus is set in a Victorian “lunar” fairground run by the mysterious and magical Ordoroff.

ROSES THEATRE The Roses, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 5NX. 01684 295074, www.rosestheatre.org Michael Morpurgo Thu 28 May, 7.30pm, £25 • Help celebrate the Roses 40th anniversary with the award-winning children’s author.

Why the Whales Came Sat 30-Sun 31 May, 2pm, £6.75-£8.75 • The Roses Youth Theatre presents Michael Morpurgo’s charming novel about an unusual friendship between two children and a strange old man.

Noah – A Musical Adventure Sat 6 Jun, 7pm, £10.75-£14.75 • Featuring original songs and puppetry.

SALISBURY ARTS CENTRE Bedwin Street, Salisbury, SP1 3UT, 01722 321744. www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk Shlomo’s Beatboxing Adventure for Kids Sat 6 Jun, 4pm, from £8 • Join in with the world-renowned beatbox artist Shlomo as he takes you on a tour of his musical skills and talents.

Shlomo #NewRules Sat 6 Jun, 8pm, from £10 • A brand new oneman show by the beatboxing artist (see above) highlights the aweinspiring range of the human voice and its relationship with modern musical technology.

SALISBURY PLAYHOUSE Malthouse Lane, Salisbury, SP2 7RA. 01722 320333, www.salisburyplayhouse.com One Little Word Fri 29 May, 12pm/2.30pm, from £7.50 • This charming and gentle story is set to stimulate and captivate children’s imaginations in a play that explores the theme of friendship.

Arabian Nights Fri 5-Sat 6 Jun, 1.30pm/6.30pm (Fri), 11am (Sat), from £7.50 • Meet Sheherazade with her collection of sumptuous, traditional stories in this latest retelling of the ancient stories, which uses music, puppetry and lots of theatrical magic.

SUDELEY CASTLE Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, GL54 5JD, 01242 602308, www.sudeleycastle.co.uk Giffords Circus Thu 21-Tue 26 May, 6pm (Thu), 5pm/7.30pm

(Fri), 11am/2.30pm/7.30pm (Sat), 11am/2.30pm/5pm (Sun & Mon), 1pm (Tue), £14-£22 • See Frampton Court Estate.

SWINDON ARTS CENTRE Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon, SN1 4BJ. 01793 614837, www.swindontheatres.co.uk Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs Fri 29-Sat 30 May, 3pm (Fri) and 10.30am (Sat), £9.50-£11.50 • Join Flinn as he discovers a pirate hiding in a cupboard, hold on tight as the cupboard falls away and tumbles into an adventure! All aboard for a non-stop, action packed theatrical experience with live music, puppetry, physical performance and dastardly dinosaurs!

TROWBRIDGE ARTS Trowbridge Town Hall, Market Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 8EQ, 01225 774306, www.trowbridgearts. com Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Sat 20 Jun, 3pm, £6-£8 • Celebrate the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s surreal creation in this magical medley of episodes from his ‘Alice In Wonderland’ and ‘Through the Looking Glass.’ Ages 4+.

Papillon Fri 10 Jul, 10am & 2pm, £5 • Explore the world around you with the Butterfly character in this evocative performance, which brings together animation with puppetry and live music.

Horrible Histories - Barmy Britain Sat 18-Sun 19 Jul, 2pm/4pm, £15 • From Queen Boudicca to the First World War, this production, complete with 3D effects, looks at the gory, fun periods of British history.

THE WYVERN THEATRE Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. 01793 524481, www.swindontheatres.co.uk Octonauts and the Deep Sea Volcano Adventure Sat 30-Sun 31 May, 10am, 1pm & 4pm, £12.50£16.50 • The crew of Octonauts, Captain Barnacles, Kwazii, and Peso, embark on an exciting new mission.

There are surprises around every corner in this interactive musical show.

Stick Man Sun 28 Jun, 1.30pm, £11-£12 • This award winning show from the team behind ‘The Gruffalo’, and based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, has been a success in the West End. PRIMARY TIMES

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T H E U K ’ S F I R S T 3 D P L A N E TA R I U M .

H O L D O N TO YO U R S E AT S .

Small classes Affordable fees Caring environment 4 -11 year old boys and girls Before & after school care

BOOK YOUR SEAT NOW: AT-BRISTOL.ORG.UK CORONAT

FIND US: AT-BRISTOL’S MILLENNIUM SQUARE

ce to grow! a l at p e r ag

Gracefield School

S E AT N O W AT- B R I S T O L . O R G . U K

266 Overndale Road, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 2RG Telephone: 0117 956 7977 enquiries@gracefieldschool.co.uk www.gracefieldschool.co.uk

Y A D Y R E EV Y A D E V I AN ACT e happy!

Come, have fun and go hom

Birthday parties Schools programmes Holiday clubs Sports clubs Scouting/guiding activities ■ Fitness training

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

For energetic kids from 7+ ■ Military assault course ■ Low ropes course ■ 7.3m climbing wall ■ 100m zip wire ■ Orienteering ■ Tunnel maze

■ Archery ■ Field gun and commando challenges ■ High ropes (open September 2015)

THE BEST DAYS ARE THE HOLIDAYS Clubs run during every school holiday

Weekdays from 9 to 4 (£30) or 8 to 5 (£35) Transport available to and from the Downs Café PRIMARY TIMES

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Look out for our exciting away days including: ■ surfing ■ mountain biking ■ canoeing ■ mountaineering ■ raft building

For all the latest details or to book online visit: www.mojoactive.co.uk T 01454 660075 E info@mojoactive.co.uk Mojo Active Over Court Farm Over Lane, Almondsbury Bristol BS32 4DF

www.mojoactive.co.uk MAY HALF TERM 2015 11

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Train Rides through the park

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

BOOK

ONLINE

& SAVE!

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

Deadlines: List your school or community group’s events in Primary Times for free. We work half a term in advance so we’re now collecting information for late July, August and September: deadline Mon 15 June.

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

ies of the universe. An interactive show where you learn about space to become a “qualified space explorer”. Suitable for under 6’s.

UNTIL SUN 20 SEP SUMMER STARGAZING Planetarium, At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Bristol, Somerset, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol. org.uk, shows throughout the day, £2 for 2D/£3 for 3D • Shoot for the stars in a guided tour of space, and learn about the rings of Saturn, black holes and the Milky Way in the UK’s only 3D planetarium. 3D shows not available for under 6’s.

NEW EMAIL ADDRESS Primary Times editor Mike Gartside now has a new email address. Please send all listings information and news/feature ideas to him at: mike.gartside@b-nm.co.uk Bristol 10k Run, Sun 31 May

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!

MAY UNTIL TUE 26 MAY THE INTERNATIONAL BATH MUSIC FESTIVAL Third Floor, Abbey Chambers, Kingston Buildings, Bath, BA1 1NT. 01225 463362, www.bathfestivals. org.uk. 7.30pm-9.30pm, £10-£30 • This year’s music festival brings together some of the world’s best soloists and groups of classical, jazz, world and folk music to Bath.

One of the festival highlights for The Pyronaut in action in Bristol, Sat 30-Sun 31 May.

families and young people will be the 2012 BBC Young Musician of the Year, Laura van der Heijden performing pieces by Elgar, Mozart and Haydn on Thu 21 May.

£12.60 (adult)/£8.10 (child) • How do plants know which way is up?

Investigate the world of trees, flowers and herbs by planting your own Japanese hanging garden.

UNTIL SUN 31 MAY THE MINIATURE MUSEUM OF MEMORIES Museum in the Park, Stratford Park, Stroud, 01453 763394, www. museuminthepark.org.uk. 10am5pm (Tue-Sat), free • An interactive artwork inspired by the collections of three Gloucestershire museums; The Holst Museum, the Museum in the Park and the Waterways museum. Explore intriguing inventions through touch, sound and movement.

UNTIL WED 10 JUN SPRING KITCHEN At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Bristol, Somerset, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol.org.uk, 10am5pm weekdays/10am-6pm weekends, £12.60 (adult)/£8.10 (child) • Uncover the science of cooking and scramble eggs inside their shells, make your own pasta and take part in a chocolate tasting masterclass.

UNTIL SUN 31 MAY VICTORIAN MONTH Tyntesfield, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1NX. 0344 800 4966, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield, 10am-6pm, standard admission prices apply • Discover Victorian England as “the Queen” and “Brunel” make visits and inspect the Queen’s soldiers. Visit fairgrounds and steam engines as you learn about how the Victorians changed the world.

UNTIL SUN 31 MAY WALKING FESTIVAL 2015 Various locations and times, www. bristolwalkingfestival.co.uk • The urban walking festival returns for a third year, with over 150 walks from 60 organisations. Highlights include a walking tour in and around Bristol’s Underfall Yard, a chance to learn the ancient Chinese exercise Qi Gong at Ashton Court, and a guided tour of Leigh Woods.

UNTIL WED 10 JUN SPRING IN THE GREENHOUSE At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www. at-bristol.org.uk, 10am-5pm weekdays/10am-6pm weekends,

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UNTIL SUN 12 JUL WILD WEATHER FORECAST At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol. org.uk. 12.15pm/3.15pm, Free with standard admission • An exhibition exploring the science of weather today and in the past.

Enjoy the opportunity to be blown around as your experience the Beaufort Scale of wind strength and get muddy as you learn about how the soil can inform us about weather in the past.

UNTIL SUN 6 SEP ANIMATRONIC BIG BUGS Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol, Somerset, BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7399, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, 9am-5.30pm, standard admission applies • This summer, 13 huge animatronic bugs can be found around the zoo. Go on a big bug trail and listen to talks by the bug rangers.

UNTIL SUN 20 SEP SPACE EXPLORERS Planetarium, At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Bristol, Somerset, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol. org.uk, shows throughout the day, £2 • Blast off into space and discover the planets, stars and galax-

UNTIL SUN 27 SEP WESTON SAND SCULPTURE FESTIVAL Marine Parade, Weston-superMare, North Somerset, BS23 1BE. www.westonsandsculpture.co.uk, 10am-5pm, £2.50-£3.50 • This popular attraction returns to Weston for its 10th year and remains a favourite for families, including interactive features and a chance to watch new sculptures being created amongst the existing collection. This year the theme is ‘The Best of 10 Years.’

UNTIL SAT 31 OCT WITHDRAWN Leigh Woods, Bristol, BS8 3PZ. www.bristol2015.co.uk/events/ withdrawn. Free • Artist Luke Jerram invites visitors to experience an unexpected encounter with a flotilla of abandoned fishing boats installed in the depths of the woodland. At night the navigation lights turn on, see if you can spot them through the trees!

FRI 22 MAY MUSIC WITH MUMMY Stoke Rd, Durdham Down, Bristol, 0117 903 0609, www.bristolzoo. org.uk. 10am-11am, £4 per child • Make some melodious music on the Downs. Decorate and play a shaker, sing, dance, do action songs and meet some wildlife puppets with Music with Mummy’s Fiona. Suitable for ages 15 months to 4. Responsible adults welcome.

FRI 22 MAY-FRI 5 JUN SEA MILLS SCARECROW SPECTACULAR Throughout Sea Mills, Bristol, www.seamillsscarecrows.co.uk, free or £3 for map • Explore the suburb of Sea Mills, where children of Sea Mills Primary School have placed 55 scarecrows in various locations. Find out where by purchasing a handy map, available from many of the local shops.

SAT 23-SUN 24 MAY VEG FEST The Amphitheatre and Waterfront Square, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 » MAY HALF TERM 2015

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‘a great underground experience for all the family!’

9 impressive caverns Caving activities Giftshop Café Ochre & blacksmith workshops Picnic area Ample free parking Educational groups welcome

OPEN 10.00am5.00pm Clearwell, Nr Coleford Telephone: 01594 832535 www.clearwellcaves.com

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DOSOMETHINGDIFFERENT! unusual and exciting activities see our website for more details

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

org.uk, 10am-4pm, £25 • Learn the art of textiles, embroidery and stitchery as you put your heads and imaginations together to create all sorts of weird and wonderful monsters. Ages 8+.

5LL. 0117 307 9872, www.bristol. vegfest.co.uk. 11am-10pm/9pm (Sun), £3 (before 5pm), £5 after, under 16s free • Celebrate all things vegan with 150 stalls, 15 caterers and a special kids’ cookery area.

SAT 23-MON 25 MAY GLOUCESTER TALL SHIPS FESTIVAL The Docks, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL1 2EH. 01452 207020, www.canalrivertrust.org. uk, 10.45am-7pm, free • See oldfashioned tall ships at the docks, take part in on and off the water activities and enjoy music, entertainment and stalls.

SUN 24 MAY FAMILY MUSIC DAY Parade Gardens, Bath, 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals.org.uk, 11am-3pm, free • Part of the Bath International Music Festival. Relax in the scenic Parade Gardens and listen to some great music from a selection of local bands.

SUN 24 MAY BANK HOLIDAY FAMILY CAMPING Puxton Park, Cowslip Lane, Hewish, North Somerset, BS24 6AH. 01934 523500, www.puxton. co.uk. Tents can be pitched from 4pm, entertainment 5.30pm-8pm, £35 per tent (up to four people), £5 per additional person • Celebrate the bank holiday weekend with some family friendly fun.

Featuring a play barn, disco, food, drink and games.

SUN 24 MAY BANK HOLIDAY DISCO Puxton Park, Cowslip Lane, Hewish, North Somerset, BS24 6AH, 01934 523500, www.puxton. co.uk. 5.30pm-8pm (food and drink available until 7pm), £5 • Puxton’s resident DJ will be on hand with plenty of musical entertainment and games.

MON 25-FRI 29 MAY MOSIAC MIXES The Roman Baths, Stall Street, Bath, Somerset, BA1 1LZ. 01225 477785, www.romanbaths.co.uk, 10am-1pm & 2pm-4pm, free with standard admission • Learn how to make mosaics just as the Romans did and design your own card and paper mosaic to take home.

Gloucester Tall Ships Festival, Sat 23-Mon 25 May

fringe.co.uk • Two shows a day of child-friendly entertainment courtesy of Kooky The Clown, Macamu, The Balloon Man, The Kagools and many others as part of the Bath Fringe.

WED 27 MAY PHOTO JUNIORS Prema, Bethesda Chapel, South Street, Uley, Gloucestershire, GL11 5SS. 01453 860703, www.prema. org.uk, 10am-4pm, £25 • A full day photography workshop. Learn about shadows, silhouettes, and digital image manipulation. All your photos will be gathered into a framed collage. All kit will be provided and included in the price.

Ages 7-10.

WED 27-FRI 29 MAY MAY CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES The Victoria Art Gallery, Bridge Street, Bath, Somerset, BA2 4AT. 01225 477233, www.victoriagal. org.uk, 10.30am-12pm, free • Take part in springtime activities. Draw colourful flowers, seasonal landscapes and make different insects and bugs. Ages 3-11.

THU 28 MAY 50 THINGS GREAT BIG TREE CLIMB Leigh Woods, Valley Road, Bristol, BS8 3PZ. 0117 973 1645, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/leigh-woods, 10am-4.45pm, £18.50 • Learn the ins and outs of ropes, knots, karabiners and how to safely send yourself into the treetop canopies before abseiling back to earth.

Ages 6+.

THU 28 MAY 50 THINGS FAMILY NIGHT WALK AND BAT DETECTING Leigh Woods, Valley Road, Bristol, BS8 3PZ. 0117 973 1645, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/leigh-woods, 8.30pm-10pm, £3.50 • Tick another off your ’50 Things’ list by going hunting for bats in the woods at night. Wear suitable clothing, and torches are advised.

THU 28 MAY BRILLIANT BUTTERFLIES Stoke Rd, Durdham Down, Bristol, 0117 903 0609, www.bristolzoo. org.uk. 10am-3.30pm, £10 per child • Did you know that butterflies can taste with their feet?

Discover the amazing world of these colourful insects with a morning butterfly spotting on the Downs. In the afternoon, plant a mini butterfly garden to take home. Suitable for 8-12 years.

Children should take their own packed lunch.

THU 28 MAY FAMILY FUN: FAMILY TREES American Museum, Claverton Manor, Bath, BA2 7BD. 01225 460 503, www.americanmuseum.org, 1pm-4pm, free with gardens-only admission • Explore your ancestry and use old-fashioned paper and quills to make your own family tree. Ages 3+.

FRI 29 MAY MONSTER MASH-UP Prema, Bethesda Chapel, South Street, Uley, Gloucestershire, GL11 5SS. 01453 860703, www.prema.

TUE 26 MAY 50 THINGS FAMILY HUNT FOR BUGS Leigh Woods, Valley Road, Bristol, BS8 3PZ. 0117 973 1645, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/leigh-woods, 10am-11.30am, £3.50 • Find snails, worms, millipedes, centipedes, woodlice and all sorts of creepy crawlies. Then take your pick of the bunch for a snail’s pace bug race.

Part of National Trust’s ‘50 Things’ list.

TUE 26-SAT 30 MAY BATH FRINGE CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL Komedia, 22-23 Westgate Street, Bath BA1 1EP, 01225 331558, www. komedia.co.uk/bath, www.bathPRIMARY TIMES

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Wendy’s World: Dolls’ House and Miniatures Fair, The Winter Gardens, Weston-super-Mare, Sun 31 May.

SAT 30 MAY MUSEUM DETECTIVES CLUB Gloucester City Museum & Art Gallery, Brunswick Road, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL1 1HP. 01452 396131, www. gloucestermuseums.co.uk, 10.30am-12pm (children 5-7)/1pm2.30pm (children 8-11), £5 per child • Explore and handle the museum’s collection of treasures, including natural history specimens and even dinosaur bones.

Get involved with stories, crafts and other activities.

SAT 30-SUN 31 MAY BEDLAM FAIR STREET FESTIVAL Victoria Bridge Gardens, Bath (Sat) and Kingsmead Square, Bath (Sun), 1pm-6pm. www. bathfringe.co.uk • Two free afternoons of outdoor theatrical whackiness, courtesy of Bath Fringe, guaranteeing laughs for all ages.

SAT 30 MAY-MON 1 JUN MEET THE EXPERT: SEA ICE, SHACKLETON AND SCIENCE At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol. org.uk. 10am-5pm (Sat/Sun) & 10am-4pm (Mon), free with standard admission • Discover lots about Antarctica and the explorers who have visited the coldest continent in the world in this hands-on investigation led by real scientists.

SAT 30-SUN 31 MAY PYRONAUT TRIPS M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.bristolmuseums. org.uk, 11am-4pm, £4-£6 • Take a tour around Bristol’s historic docks aboard Bristol’s former fire-boat. See the powerful water cannon in use, as it was between 1934 and 1973, including the World War II blitz raids on the docks.

SUN 31 MAY BRISTOL 10K Bristol, Somerset, 01179 081375, www.rmhbristol.com, 9.30am, £26 • Take part in a 15,000 strong race for charity. Runners include some of the UK’s top athletes. Minimum participant age is 15.

SUN 31 MAY WENDY’S WORLD: DOLLS HOUSE AND MINIATURES FAIR The Winter Gardens, Royal Parade, Weston-Super-Mare, Somerset, BS23 1AJ. 01934 417117, www.parkwood-events. co.uk, 10am-4pm, £3 (adults)/£1 (children) • An exhibition of exquisitely handmade, handdressed dolls and dolls’ houses.

You can also purchase all sorts of MAY HALF TERM 2015

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dolls’ house accessories from the exhibitors’ stalls.

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

Visit the Villa, Kings Weston, Bristol, Sat 13 Jul.

JUNE

SAT 20 JUN HENRY’S COFFEE SHOP Minchinhampton School, School Road, Minchinhampton, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL6 9BP. 01453 883273, minchschoolblogs.net, 12pm-3pm, free • A school fete including bouncy castles, BBQ, lucky dips, ice cream, steam train and pony rides and birds of prey shows, as well as a bar for the parents.

FRI 5-SUN 7 JUN THE OTHER ART FAIR Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 4QA. 0117 917 2300, www.theotherartfair.com. 11am-8pm/6pm (Sun), £5.50/£4.40 • Bristol’s Arnolfini plays host to the first regional event of this successful Londonbased fair, featuring new artists’ work, workshops, immersive theatre, live music and performance art.

SAT 6 JUN SATURDAY ART CLUB – SELFIES Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath, Somerset, BA2 4DB. 01225 388568, www.holburne. org, 10.30am-12.30pm, £9 • A fortnightly workshop to help you improve your photography skills by producing an artist inspired self-portrait. Ages 5-13.

SAT 6 JUN NATURE DISCOVERY DAY Bannerdown Common, Batheaston, Bath, Somerset, BA1 8EG. 0117 917 7270, www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk, 11am-3pm, free • Celebrate local wildlife with the Avon Wildlife Trust. Explore the area and discover the animals and plants at the common, and get involved in a range of familyfocused activities.

SAT 6 JUN BALAST SEED GARDEN FAMILY DAY Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA. 0117 917 2300, www. arnolfini.org.uk, 11am-2pm, free • Meet and interact with the volunteers from the Arnolfini and the Bristol Botanic Garden at Castle Green as they plant up the Floating Ballast Seed Garden.

There will be an activity tent for family fun activities with a planting theme.

SAT 6 JUN WILDLIFE DAY Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Rd, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG. 01275 852606, www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk. 10.30am-5pm, standard admission prices apply • Get your wellies on and join in with a day exploring the hidden conservation areas of Noah’s Ark. Enjoy pond dipping at the nature reserve Bedlam Fair Street Festival, Sat 30Sun 31 May, Part of Bath Fringe

and learn about the native species of this country.

SAT 6-SUN 7 JUN CHARITY LEGO EXHIBITION St Michael’s School, Stoke Gifford, Bristol, BS34 8SG. 01454 866781, www.stmichaelss.schooljotter2. com. 10am-1.30pm and 2pm5.30pm, £3.50 • A fun, family outing filled with Lego. In association with Fairy Bricks, Fab Bricks and many others. All money raised will be converted into Lego and presented to the South West Children’s Hospice.

FRI 12 JUN SS GREAT BRITAIN – ENGINEER’S TRAIL Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Road, Bristol, Somerset, BS1 6TY. 0117 926 0680, www. ssgreatbritain.org, 7.30pm-late, £45 • This is a rare opportunity to join the maritime curators and have a behind the scenes tour of the parts of Brunel’s iconic ship that are not normally open to the public. Afterwards, enjoy a real treat as you sit down to a Victorian dinner on board. Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult SAT 13 JUN THE ART OF CHOCOLATE Prema, Bethesda Chapel, South Street, Uley, Gloucestershire, GL11 5SS. 01453 860703, www.prema. org.uk, 2pm-4pm, £30 • You don’t need to finish your dinner to enjoy this pudding! Chocolatier and sculptor Nina Halford guides you through melting, forming and moulding your own delicious chocolate art. You might even get to taste some along the way. Price covers two adults and two children, or equivalent.

SAT 13 JUN VISIT THE VILLA Kings Weston Roman Villa, Long Cross, Bristol, BS11 0LH. 0117 922 3571, www.bristolmuseums.org. uk, 11am-4pm, free • Handle real Roman artefacts and see mosaics, underfloor heating and baths. Get involved in family activities, too.

SAT 13-SUN 14 JUN GREAT BRITISH TENNIS WEEKEND Various locations, see website. www.lta.org.uk/gbtw, various times, free • Go tennis mad in

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zoofarm.co.uk. Check the website for special admission price • Why not celebrate Father’s Day with a visit to the zoo. There’s a “Who’s the daddy?” quiz to win a keeper experience for your dad.

loads of locations this summer.

Get stuck into activities including Mini Tennis, Cardio Tennis, Disability Tennis, Junior and Adult Coaching and relaxed free play.

Venues will provide all the necessary equipment.

SAT 13-SUN 14 JUN FESTIVAL OF NATURE WILD WEEKEND Bristol Harbourside, Bristol, Somerset, 0117 317 8751, www. festivalofnature.org.uk, 10am6pm (Sat)/10am-5pm (Sun), free • Explore the natural wonders of Britain and take part in interactive exhibits, talks, workshops and more as over 100 organisations put on exhibits and talks for wildlife lovers of all ages. Part of Bristol’s European Green Capital celebrations.

SAT 13-SUN 14 JUN MAYFLOWER RIDES M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.bristolmuseums.org. uk, 11am-4pm, £4-£6 • Take a ride around Bristol’s historic docks aboard the historic tug, Mayflower.

Built in Bristol in 1861, the Mayfair first worked out of Poole, moving to the ship canal between Sharpness and Gloucester. Trips last for approx. 30 minutes.

WED 17 JUN SHOWCASE EVENING St Katherine’s School, Ham Green, BS20 0HU, 01275 373737, www. st-katherines.n-somerset.sch.uk • Find out what this semi-rural secondary school might be able to offer your child.

FRI 19 JUN MUSIC WITH MUMMY Stoke Rd, Durdham Down, Bristol, 0117 903 0609, www.bristolzoo. org.uk. 10am-11am, £4 per child • Make some melodious music on the Downs. Decorate and play a shaker, sing, dance, do action songs and meet some wildlife puppets with Music with Mummy’s Fiona. Suitable for 15 months to 4 years. Dad, Gran and other responsible adults welcome!

SAT 20 JUN FATHER’S DAY Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Rd, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG. 01275 852606, www.noahsark-

SAT 20 JUN SATURDAY ART CLUB – MONOPRINTS & GOUACHE Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath, Somerset, BA2 4DB. 01225 388568, www.holburne. org, 10.30am-12.30pm, £9 • Develop your artistic skills and create a modern version of a Georgian beadwork basket with print and paint. Ages 5-13.

SAT 20-SUN 21 JUN WESTON AIR FESTVAL & ARMED FORCES DAY Marine Parade, Weston-superMare, North Somerset, BS23 1BE, 01934 427225. www.westonairfestival.com • The weekend includes air displays, military exhibitions, and arena performances as well as displays from the world-renowned Red Arrows and the huge Avro Vulcan Bomber. Also a fun fair accompanying the regular attractions on Marine Parade.

SUN 21 JUN CHEW VALLEY 10K RUN Bishop Sutton Village Hall, Wick Rd, Bishop Sutton, BS39 5XD. www.chewvalley10k.co.uk.

9.30am, £17 adults/£4 children • Whether you’re a complete beginner or seasoned runner, sign up for Chew Valley’s third annual 10k race and get the whole family moving. The village hall will also play host to a barbeque, stalls and the 1k fun run for children aged 4-14.

SUN 21 JUN SKY RIDE BRISTOL Bristol. www.goskyride.com/ BristolSkyRide • Get on your bike with thousands of other cyclists on a traffic-free tour of the city that passes some of its most famous landmarks. With a free check-up of your bike at Halfords and demonstrations by expert mountain bike and BMX teams, the Sky Ride is set to be a big event for all bike lovers. Test your tricks and skills on the giant air bag, then head to the Bike Café to get a drink and bite to eat. For the under-16s British Cycling have Go Ride sessions teaching younger kids about riding bikes. Be sure to register in time.

SAT 27 JUN FAMILY FILM SCREENING Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 4QA.

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PRIMARY TIMES

05/05/2015 10:38:22

Moomin Mania From Fri 22 May

50 things day

snail racing

Join us at Bathwick fields in Bath for a fun-filled day of '50 things to do before you're 11 ¾' activities. Borrow a kite, race a snail, roll down a really big hill and many more awesome antics.

We will also have grass tobogganing, an adventure not to miss.

Call 01225 833977 for details. Free event. nationaltrust.org.uk/bathskyline #50things

© National Trust Images. Registered charity number 205846.

Sat 23 May, 10.30am – 2pm

Sail away at Bristol’s

watershed.co.uk

© 2014 Handle Productions Oy, Pictak Cie © Moonmin Characters TM

,QGHSHQGHQW HGXFDWLRQ IRU ER\V DQG JLUOV DJHG \HDUV PRIMARY TIMES

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ROUNDABOUT Teddy Bears’ Picnic, Avon Valley Railway, Bitton, Sun 12 Jul.

»

0117 917 2300, www.arnolfini.org. uk, 11am-1pm, free • Join in with Arnolfini’s program of familythemed events as they screen a family adventure film. Showings to be confirmed.

SAT 27 JUN SUMMER FAIR Horfield Church Of England Primary School, Bishop Manor Road, Bristol, BS10 5BD. 0117 903 0041, www. horfieldceprimaryschool.org, 11.30am-2pm, £1 (adults)/children free • A summer fete featuring bouncy castle, BBQ, music, and loads of stalls. When you need a rest from the festivities, have a bite to eat in the café.

SAT 27 JUN WE ARE FAMILY Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 4QA. 0117 917 2300, www.arnolfini.org.uk, 1pm-5pm, free • Drop in and see the different fun and creative workshops and activities on offer for all the family to enjoy. Age 5+, but all ages are welcome.

SAT 27-SUN 28 JUN PYRONAUT TRIPS M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.bristolmuseums.org. uk, 11am-4pm, £4-£6 • Take a tour around Bristol’s historic docks aboard Bristol’s former fire-boat.

Experience the powerful water cannon at work, which was in operation between 1934 and 1973 including the Blitz on the docks in World War II. Trips last approx. 30 minutes.

JULY FRI 3 JUL JOHN LAWSONS CIRCUS Bridge Farm Primary School, East Dundry Road, Whitchurch, Bristol BS14 0LL. 01179 030420, johnlawsonscircus.co.uk, 4pm/6.30pm, £8/£28 for family of four • Enjoy clowns, juggling, dancing, knife throwing, cube manipulations and even sword balancing as the circus comes to town.

FRI 3 JUL MOTH MAGIC – EVENING EVENT Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife 18

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Project, at Bristol Zoo, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA. 0117 903 0609, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, 9.3011.30pm, £4 • Meet Ray Barnett, and other members of the Bristol & District Moth Group for an evening exploring Avon Gorge’s moth community. If you are lucky you might even get a chance to see the little silky wave moth, only found in Avon Gorge. All ages welcome but children must be supervised by a parent or carer. Meet on the Downs.

SAT 4 JUL SATURDAY ART CLUB – CONSTRUCTION & COLLAGE Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath, Somerset, BA2 4DB. 01225 388568, www.holburne. org, 10.30am-12.30pm, £9 • A fortnightly workshop to help you develop your artistic skills and make a holiday journal collage piece. Ages 5-13.

SAT 4-SUN 5 JUL WAR OF INDEPENDENCE CAMP & DRILL DISPLAYS American Museum In Britain, Claverton Manor, Bath, Somerset, BA2 7BD. 01225 460 503, www. americanmuseum.org, 12pm-5pm/ kid’s drill 2.45pm, standard admission prices apply • Join these re-enactment drills to see if you have what it takes to be a soldier in the 1700s. Cover your ears for the incredibly loud cannon.

FRI 10-SUN 12 JUL WHISPERING WOODS PRESENTS RED THREADS Prior Park Landscape Garden, Ralph Allen Drive, Bath, Somerset, BA2 5AH. 01225 833422, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/prior-park, 7pm-8pm (Fri/Sat), 4pm/5pm (Sat/Sun), £6.50-£7.50 • A performance that promises to combine storytelling with aerial acrobatics among the treetops. A collaboration with the egg theatre, Bath. All ages welcome.

SUN 12 JUL TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC Avon Valley Railway, Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Somerset, BS30 6HD. 0117 932 5538, www.avonvalleyrailway.org, £7.50 adults/£5.50 children • Kids who bring their teddy go free

PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES! for a day of arts and crafts, teddy bear hunts, Punch and Judy, as well as a host of other activities.

You can also purchase a picnic basket filled with treats.

fishing, golf, cycling and other shows over the weekend. There’ll also be food marquees and craft stalls, fairgrounds and kids’ play areas.

FRI 17-SUN 19 JUL BRISTOL HARBOUR FESTIVAL Venues stretch from Lloyds Amphitheatre to Castle Park, www. bristolharbourfestival.co.uk, from 6pm in Queen square (Fri), 12pm-10pm (Sat), 12pm-6pm (Sun), free • One of Bristol’s best loved annual attractions, the festival takes over around two miles of the city centre and features a vibrant mix of music, art, circus, dance performances, and food and drink stalls. You can also see the boats all shipshape and Bristol fashion.

(See feature, P4.)

MON 3-FRI 7 AUG GIGANTIC SUMMER STORIES St Georges Hall, Easton-in-Gordano, Bristol, Somerset, BS20 0PX. 01275 373232, www.thestorycellar.co.uk, 10am-3pm, £90 • Explore the world of fairy-tale narratives, from wicked stepmothers, to dragons, to giants.

Learn the art of story making and character creation, all with a performance at the end of the week.

SAT 18 JUL SATURDAY ART CLUB – MIXED MEDIA MUSEUM Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath, Somerset, BA2 4DB. 01225 388568, www.holburne. org, 10.30am-12.30pm, £9 • A fortnightly workshop to help you develop your skills in mixed media art. Create an oil and water-based image to take home. Ages 5-13.

SAT 18 JUL-SUN 1 NOV NATURE, CAMERA, ACTION! THE SECRETS OF MAKING INCREDIBLE WILDLIFE FILMS M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.bristolmuseums.org. uk, 10am-5pm, £4-£5, under 16s free • Billed as the M Shed’s flagship event celebrating Bristol’s status as European Green Capital, 2015, this exhibition promises to entertain and inform as it highlights Bristol as a global centre for wildlife film making. The exhibition has been created in association with the BBC and the National Media Museum, Bradford.

TUE 21 JUL-SAT 29 AUG SUMMER ACTIVITIES AT BRISTOL MUSEUM Check website for venues, 0117 922 3571, www.bristolmuseums.org.uk, 11am-3pm, free • Running throughout the school summer holiday from Tuesdays to Saturdays this program of fun, interactive and creative activities should stimulate and entertain the whole family.

From professional story tellers in historical costumes to tests of science skills and perfecting drawing, these activities are ideal for children aged 7-13 (and accompanying adults).

AUGUST SAT 1-SUN 2 AUG SOUTH GLOS SHOW The Windmill Fisheries Showground, Westerleigh Road, Gloucestershire, BS37 8QZ. 01454 222 959, www.southglosshow.co.uk, 10.30am, price to be confirmed • Get ready for a huge weekend of fun and entertainment. There’s loads to see and do with over 250 classic cars and bikes, shooting events,

ONGOING EVENTS TRAINS, BOATS AND LANES: THE STORY OF TRANSPORT IN RADSTOCK Radstock Museum, Waterloo Road, Radstock, BA3 3EP. 01761 437722, www.radstockmuseum.co.uk • Transport exhibits tell the story of the town’s links with its neighbours.

STORYTELLING At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0845 345 1235, www.at-bristol.org. uk, free with general admission • Every weekend, interactive sciencethemed stories include slugs, magical forests, puddles and bathtubs.

Suitable for under 8s.

LIVE SCIENCE SHOWS At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0117 909 2000, www.at-bristol.org.uk, general admission applies • Get hands-on and take an At-Bristol look at classic cake ingredients. How stretchy can you make flour, and how foamy can you make eggs? Discover the science behind smell and what happens to food once it’s been swallowed.

CREW DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? Brunel’s ss Great Britain, Great Western Dockyard, Bristol, BS1 6TY. 0117 926 0680, www.ssgreatbritain. org, daily, free with general admission • Would you have made the grade as a Victorian crew member?

Pick up an activity wheel from the ship’s visitor centre and try out a series of challenges as you explore Brunel’s famous ship.

SOUNDS OF THE 1800s Brunel’s ss Great Britain, Great Western Dockyard, Bristol, BS1 6TY. 0117 926 0680, www.ssgreatbritain. org, daily, free with general admission • Transport yourself 170 years into the past as the First Class Dining Saloon comes bursting to life.

A Victorian three-course dining experience is vividly recreated.

THEATRE AND ROUNDABOUT LISTINGS BY STUART SIMNER AND JACK READER PRIMARY TIMES

05/05/2015 10:38:50

Looking for a ‘good’ local school?

Look no further!

72% 5+ GCSEs A*-C 98% attendance

...good with outstanding features

Something rather special is emerging on Allfoxton Road - Prospective parent

Every day is an open day.

Please contact us to book a tour: www.fairfield.bristol.sch.uk

, BREAK FA ST D N A H L UN C DINNER week days m BEFORE 5p ˆ

KIDS EAT FREE THIS

HALF TERM

I'M STUFFED

Participating Restaurants

Hobbs Boat Bridgwater Road Lympsham Weston-Super-Mare Somerset BS24 0BP 01934 812782

TERMS AND CONDITIONS ^ 1. This offer entitles one child to a free kids’ main meal per adult purchasing a main meal from the main restaurant menu at the same time. Breakfast, Light Bites, Bar Snacks, Daytime & Evening Value menu meals and all Set Menus are excluded.

2. Junior Meals are excluded. 3. This offer is valid Mondays to Fridays before 5pm. 4. For full terms and conditions go to tabletable.co.uk/termsandconditions Horrible Histories® is a registered trademark of Scholastic Inc. and is used under authorization. All rights reserved. Based on the bestselling books written by Terry Deary and illustrated by Martin Brown. Illustration © Martin Brown

PRIMARY TIMES

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Want to earn in excess of £1,500 per month from home?

Do you have young children?

Struggling to balance your job and parenting?

Ever fancied being your own boss?

Maths and English Study Programmes Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.

Bradley Stoke Downend St. George Thornbury Westbury on Trym

01454 01179 01173 01454 01173

610389 695915 770888 281037 293137 kumon.co.uk

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

Westonbirt Arboretum

Mummy do you have to go to work again?

With childcare costs at an all-time high, would you like the opportunity to work flexible hours on a full time income?

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Tickets: 03000 680400 Buy online/info: forestry.gov.uk/music

St Katherine’s School

An award winning secondary school set in a beautiful location overlooking the City of Bristol.

Our high quality teaching staff ensure active learning in an engaging environment where children flourish, with outstanding pastoral care to meet every child’s needs.

Buses run from all over Bristol direct to the school.

Year 5/6 parents and students are welcome to our Year 7 Showcase Evening, June 17th at 6pm 20

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For more information please contact us at: St Katherine’s School, Ham Green, Bristol BS20 0HU Tel: 01275 373737 Email: school@st-katherines.n-somerset.sch.uk

www.st-katherines.n-somerset.sch.uk PRIMARY TIMES

01/05/2015 14:24:36

Help where it’s

needed Private tuition isn’t just about preparing for exams, as Stuart Simner discovers.

E

xam season can be a time of both tension and excitement for Year 6 children and their parents as secondary school choices loom.

Of course families feel anxiety about finding the right school, but there’s also anticipation as the next phase of a child’s life approaches. It’s inevitable that many parents will want to give their children an academic helping hand over this period, and they may choose to do so with private tuition. Indeed, seven out of 10 children who have gained entrance to a grammar school have had private tuition, according to UCL’s Institute of Education, while one in four children aged over 10 have supplemented their education this way.

There are a plethora of reasons why parents might choose extra tuition. Some may be considering one of the region’s grammar schools or an independent school, in which case their children will sit either the Year 6 SATs, 11+ exams or a school entrance exam. Others may feel that their 10 or 11-yearold needs a bit of extra help in a specific subject to ease the transition to secondary education.

Whatever the reason, most teachers recognise that nearly all children can benefit from some one-to-one tuition in any of the national curriculum subjects, and there is plenty of help out there.

Private tuition organisations are experienced in supporting children to gain entry into grammar schools and independent PRIMARY TIMES

15 Avon Features May Half Term 2015.indd 7

schools. Lauren Webb from Explore Learning notes that 10% of their 350 students are from Year 5 and practising for entrance exams, which often take place in early Year 6. Independent and grammar schools usually have higher than average expectations in the core areas of maths and English and their exams test verbal and non-verbal reasoning skills. As these are not part of the National Curriculum, they are unlikely to have been taught in state primary schools.

As Aron Dhunna of online tuition specialist KSOL explains, children need to be prepared for the unknown. He stresses that entrance exam content differs from year to year and says KSOL has a long tradition of researching exam trends, leaving it well-placed to tutor children for all eventualities.

But private tuition is about much more than exam preparation, as children from all agegroups become increasingly likely to have some private lessons, perhaps to catch up on or enhance school work. As Jenny Maddern, a private tutor with 43 years’ experience of working with children, explains, “I help children find strategies for success at school.” An area of growing importance, she says, is parents’ own confidence and skills in helping their children to learn at home. Consequently, one in three mothers with children who attend her lessons take the time to discover how best to aid their children’s learning. As she

points out, “This helps the children learn even more and speeds up the process of success.”

Increasingly, parents are also using private tutors to support areas where children excel, extending their skills and knowledge in subjects where they may one day acquire expertise. Lauren Webb of Explore Learning notes that Reception-aged children are having some form of private tuition in subjects such as phonics and handwriting to help reinforce what is happening within their Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) setting, as well as prepare them for a smoother transition into Year 1 where the new KS1 curriculum has placed much higher expectations on attainment in maths and English So, whether you are exploring avenues to help prepare your child for that all-important school entrance exam, seeking to support or extend your child’s learning in a specific area or simply want to answer your child’s call to learn a new skill, there is sure to be help available.

E: info@efb1.fsnet.co.uk Explore Learning T: 0117 934 9499 W: www.explorelearning.co.uk E: enquiries@explorelearning.co.uk HARPSCOOL T: 07599 561514 W: www.harpscool.co.uk E: info@harpscool.co.uk Jim Johnston T: 07870 887242 E: jim@jimjohnstonmusic.com KSOL T: 0121 733 6558 W: www.ksol.co.uk E: lisa.d@ksol.co.uk Kumon T: 0800 854714 W: www.kumon.co.uk Learning Success for All T: 07905 802267 E: jennymaddern@yahoo.co.uk Piano Lessons T: 0117 904 8648 Spanish Lessons T: 07769 682603

Bristol Music School T: 0117 942 7479 W: www.bristolmusicschool.com E: enquiries@bristolmusicschool.com Dial-a-Violin-lesson!

T: 01275 371056 Discovery Learning T: 07905 802267 E: jennymaddern@yahoo.co.uk Ecole Française de Bristol T: 0117 959 3311 W: www.ecolefrancaisebristol.co.uk MAY HALF TERM 2015

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OUR SMALL CLASSES TAKE THE CAKE. If you and your daughter would like to visit Cranwell House at any time to see what a difference being in a small class can make, you’ll be most welcome.

Please contact Diana Rejiester d.rejiester@rhsb.gdst.net

A leading independent boarding and day school for girls Cranwell House, Weston Park East, Bath BA1 2UZ Tel: 01225 422931 Email: royalhigh@rhsb.gdst.net www.royalhighbath.gdst.net

Choose Clifton High School. 10 reasons why: 1

Co-educational – because in life, men and women work together

6

Excellent sports facilities including an indoor heated pool on-site

2

Boys and girls taught separately – when it matters most

7

Spacious grounds in a sunny aspect to play, socialise and learn

3

Small enough so everyone is known but big enough to offer a wide variety of opportunities

8

Nursery school with fully-qualified and trained teaching staff

4

Small class sizes with excellent pupil:teacher ratios

9

5

Outstanding support and guidance for university selection and applications

Outstanding teacher-pupil relationships based on trust and respect

10

Forward looking, embracing change and providing an education relevant for the 21st Century

Whole School Open Morning: Thursday 11th June

0117 933 9087

www.cliftonhigh.bristol.sch.uk 22

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

‘Ark at Eden!

City School celebrates 425 This March Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital (QEH) celebrated its 425th anniversary at its annual Charter Day service in Bristol Cathedral. Originally founded for 18 orphans and destitute boys by philanthropic soap merchant John Carr, the school now educates over 670 boys (including the Junior School) and has more wishing to join than ever before.

Known as The City School, QEH still holds to its ‘hospice’ roots, providing places for bright boys in financial need.

Headmaster Stephen Holliday said, “Charter Day, the celebration of John Carr’s founding of the City School in 1590, was a time to reflect on the visionary work of one of our great city philanthropists.”

Deputy headmaster David Bateson added, “On display was the 1590 charter, a wonderful illuminated manuscript featuring the original Bluecoat boys and signed by Elizabeth I, our original patron.”

The vision of John Carr and the school motto, “Whilst we have time, let us do good” is still adhered to strongly.

Ffi: QEH W: www.qehbristol.co.uk

They’ve nailed it!

Let your children enjoy learning nail techniques with expert manicurist Jo in her funky nail studio. As part of a birthday party or treat, the host or birthday child gets her nails done by Jo in the studio, while all children receive a certificate on completion of the course.

Refreshments are available and birthday cakes are welcome.

Jo can also train mums looking for a new career in acrylic nail skills, manicure and pedicure, nail art, massage, Indian head massage, waxing, facials and more. The courses are accredited so you can gain insurance and start your own business.

Ffi and to book: T: Jo on 07881 407342

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Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is getting ready for a bumper summer with lots happening for visitors to enjoy. Somerset’s home of the big zoo animals, Noah’s Ark has three amazing African elephants at its Elephant Eden plus white rhinos, giraffes, lions, zebra and tigers. With 12 indoor and outdoor adventure play areas, children of all ages can have fun, all day, whatever the weather.

Upcoming events for the summer include Wildlife Day on Sat 6 Jun, where families can go behind the scenes to the Noah’s Ark conservation area and find some exciting insects whilst pond dipping.

On Sun 21 Jun, the farm celebrates Father’s Day: children can treat Dad to a day at the zoo for £5. Meanwhile Noah’s Ark celebrates the 10th anniversary of Reptile Fortnight from Mon 27 July to Sat 8 Aug, with twice daily venomous snake shows and reptile handling.

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

Go South Glos!

The first weekend in August marks the second South Glos Show.

Last year saw over 18,000 people enjoy an action-packed event with activities to entertain the whole family.

On the weekend itself you can expect to see lots of entertainment in the Main Arena, which last year saw flying motorcycles and birds of prey along with demonstrations from local groups and clubs.

There will be over 300 classic cars and interactive motorsport attractions including a have-a-go 4x4 Area. Or you can try your luck against Bristol Motor Club’s motor sprint challenge, the Autosolo.

For those that prefer a slower pace there is a Health and Wellbeing area and Craft Stalls. And don’t forget the Food Marquee for those who need sustenance.

Other activities include a music festival, golf, shooting, archery, beer festival, cycling show, fishing, fairground and a big Kids’ Zone. And don’t forget plenty of retail therapy!

Ffi South Glos Show W: www.southglosshow.co.uk

Gigantic summer stories Looking for something for your 6-11 year olds to take part in this summer - something to develop their interest in performance or perhaps a project to nurture them and boost confidence and selfesteem? Then look no further than The Story Cellar’s North Somerset Summer School.

From the gruesome world of Grimm to local tales of giants, spend a week with The Story Cellar to explore wolves, fairies, dragons and wicked stepmothers. One week of “storymaking”, character creation, puppetry and prop making is based around fairytales and folklore, using the story of ‘Goram & Vincent, the Bristol Giants’ as a starting point. It all leads towards a performance at the end of the week.

Mon 3-Fri 7 Aug, 10am-3pm, daily St George’s Church Hall, Easton-inGordano, N. Somerset, £90 for the course.

Ffi: The Story Cellar E: liz@thestorycellar.co.uk W: www.thestorycellar.co.uk

Wild awake Festival of Nature Wild Weekend, Bristol Harbourside, Sat 13-Sun 14 Jun The Festival of Nature returns to Bristol this summer and takes centre stage at this year’s European Green Capital celebrations. It features a host of interactive exhibits and activities from giants of the natural history world including the BBC Natural History Unit, National Trust, Avon Wildlife Trust and RSPB. Featuring over 100 organisations, the Festival of Nature Wild Weekend gives wildlife-lovers of all ages a unique opportunity to discover and enjoy the natural world on the Bristol Harbourside on Sat 13-Sun 14 June.

The second annual Bath Festival of Nature takes place in Victoria Park on Sat 27 Jun with a host of environmental organisations flocking to the park to showcase the incredible wildlife in one of Britain’s most beautiful cities.

Ffi and sign up for newsletter: Festival of Nature W: www.festivalofnature.org.uk

MAY HALF TERM 2015 23

05/05/2015 10:28:25

The Painting Pottery Café

Bristol’s largest and only dedicated paint-your-own-pottery • Suitable for ALL ages!

• Over 100 items to choose from • Items professionally glazed and fired • Collect a few days later, and keep a lifetime!

Ideal for:

• Mother/Father’s day presents • Capturing baby’s foot or handprints • Children’s parties • Adult’s parties • Girl’s night out / hen nights • Unique Wedding gifts

PAINTED POTTERY MAKES PERFECT PRESENTS! 9 Byron Place (off the Clifton Triangle) Tel: (0117) 927 3666

www.flyingsaucers.co.uk

A good school with

Outstanding features in transition, leadership and parental engagement Ofsted 2015

0117 353 4472 enquiries@bridgelearningcampus.com www.bridgelearningcampus.com Think Learning Think Local Think BLC

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi St Katherine’s School St Katherine’s School is a dynamic and aspirational school with high standards of behaviour built on the collaborative relationships fostered between staff and students. It values effort, nurtures opinion and encourages breadth of thought to create successful independent learners who are prepared for any path they should wish to follow. It is a relatively small secondary school which means staff know every student and help them to fulfil their potential. Set in a beautiful, semirural location with views across the city, buses from all over Bristol deliver students direct to the school.

Year 5/6 students and parents are warmly invited to join them at their Year 7 showcase evening to see the great work our students achieve.

Year 7 Showcase Evening Wed 17 Jun – Everyone welcome!

Ffi: St Katherine’s School Ham Green, BS20 0HU T: 01275 373737 E: school@st-katherines.n-somerset. sch.uk W: www.st-katherines.n-somerset.sch.uk

To infinity and beyond!

At-Bristol Science Centre offers all kinds of interactive activities, shows and experiments for inquisitive minds of all ages. With over 250 exhibits, brand new family shows and the UK’s very first 3D Planetarium there’s so much to explore.

Wannabe astronauts can blast off into space like never before with the new HD and surround sound shows in the Planetarium. Plus, the hands-on activities get astronomical in May with an opportunity to make your own Mars rover buggy.

Back here on Earth you can walk in the icy footsteps of explorers in Antarctica (Sat 30 May–Fri 1 Jun) and find out about all things meteorological in a new weather show.

At-Bristol Science Centre aims to make science accessible to all with two floors full of exhibits and experiments to appeal to young and old alike. You can also browse the shop and eat in the award-winning cafe or bring your own refreshments to enjoy in the picnic area.

Ffi: At-Bristol W: www.at-bristol.org.uk

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15 Avon Pinboard May Half Term 2015.indd 25

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

Joust thrilling!

Cardiff Castle, Sat 20 – Sun 21 June, 10am– 5pm To the sound of fanfares, the sensational Knights of Royal England return, lances at the ready, for a breathtaking display of the noble art of jousting. A day full of pageantry, hair-raising horseback stunts, ferocious blows and laugh-out-loud antics will have the crowds baying for more action. A fabulous family day out is promised, with a packed programme to keep everyone in a medieval mood. Go in costume as a knight or princess and join the children’s parade; go face to face with a dragon or try your hand at junior jousting.

Enjoy: • Joust display (two shows per day) • Puppet shows • Storytelling • Junior jousting skills • Juggling • Armourer • Medieval encampment Ffi and tickets: Cardiff Castle T: 029 2087 8100 W: www.cardiffcastle.com or www.castell-caerdydd.com Book in advance and save pounds!

Under 5s free

Pots of fun Flying Saucers, The Painting Pottery Café, is a popular ceramic studio based just off the Clifton Triangle, Bristol. Now into its seventh year, the café has friendly and knowledgeable staff who will guide you through the process of creating a ceramic item. With their help you’ll be surprised how good it ends up looking.

You start with a plain piece of readymade pottery (or bisque, as it’s known) and create your own unique design, whether that’s a baby footprint or kids’ handprint, a personalised message for Father’s Day, a work of art for yourself or as a gift. No artistic ability is necessary!

Once completed, the pottery is professionally glazed and fired in the on-site kiln, and ready for collection around a week later. There are over 100 different pieces to choose from – mugs, plates, money boxes, plant pots, photo frames, teapots, trinket boxes etc. Once fired, the pieces are fully usable. Flying Saucers is also a popular venue for children’s parties, girls’ night out, etc.

Ffi: Flying Saucers 9 Byron Place, off the Clifton Triangle, Bristol T: 0117 927 3666 W: www.flyingsaucers. co.uk

Deep deep down Discover ocean heavyweights and colossal creatures this May half-term at Bristol Aquarium.

The Deep Blue event runs from Sat 23 May and includes hands-on activities and stories of lurking legends.

A morning sandpit search will reveal mini whales hidden as visitors uncover fabulous facts about these incredible creatures, followed by walking a shark line to see just how small you really are compared to the biggest Megalodon shark!

Those with a strong stomach can watch a small squid dissection in the Learning Lab as staff talk about the elusive Giant Squid. Visitors will find something very cool to get their hands on during this activity. Every day finishes with a hands-on challenge to place some of the ocean’s heaviest creatures at the right ocean depth – do you think you know how deep down the Angler Fish lives?

Open daily from 10am. Under 3s free.

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

Discover Goodrich Castle A climbable keep, a dungeon, arrow loops, murder holes and more make this quintessential castle a must for your curriculum. With its gatehouse, towers, chapel, kitchen, well, dungeon, halls and garderobes, it’s perfect for the development of enquiry skills and to help your class interpret the ruins as a stronghold and a home. Explore on one of the castle’s free self-led visits or its expert-led Discovery Visit, which is £100 per session, per class of up to 30 students during term time.

A Time Before Living Memory (KS1) Your class will discover the differences and similarities between life in a modern home and a medieval castle. Look for clues to what the castle may have looked like before it was a ruin, and join in with medieval entertainment.

Duration: 1 1/2 hours Ffi and to book T: 0370 666 0303 W: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/ places/goodrich-castle/school-visits

MAY HALF TERM 2015 25

05/05/2015 10:29:42

Adver tising Feature

Fairfield students reach Maths final • Pupils at Fairfield High School, Bristol, have reached the regional final of the UK Maths Challenge.

Emmanuel Leach and Abdul Ali from Year 8 and Libby Rush and Finlay Suttie from Year 9 took part in the Regional Final of the UK Maths Challenge, alongside teams from 24 other schools. Despite talented opposition, the FHS team finished 7th out of 25 and at one point were one of the top five teams competing for the chance to take part in the National Finals in London.

Mr. Barrington-Crow, the Fairfield High teacher who accompanied the team to the event, was exceptionally proud of the children’s performance.

“The fact that they were able to finish above many of the carefully selected teams from the most prestigious schools in the area demonstrates not only superb mathematical abilities but the capacity to work incredibly well as a team,” he said.

All four students are to be congratulated after this hugely successful and enjoyable day, according to the school. The Maths department has enjoyed many successes recently, including 66% A*-C in the GCSE results (above the National Average of 62%), while 72% of students have achieved at least three levels of progress (National Average 66%).

Ffi: Fairfield High School W: www.fairfield.bristol.sch.uk

Adver tising Feature

Recycle to earn your school pounds!

22 May - 6 June 2015 Children and family shows Family Playday at City Encounters One Little Word from M6 Theatre Red Riding Hood Barry Loser George’s Amazing Adventures Small Worlds from Mimika Arabian Nights

To book tickets visit salisburyfestival.co.uk or call 0845 241 9651

A charity • Did you know that 100 tonnes of shop worker second hand clothing are exported for collects re-use each week in Bristol? Founded textiles for in 1972, Bristol Textile Recyclers (BTR) recycling is believed to be the only textile recycler in the West of England, working with schools and charities throughout 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 stock room clear for new donations.

BTR also works with schools, PTAs, community groups and other non-profit organisations, helping them to fundraise through recycling, organising clothes drives and placing recycling banks at their premises. To organise your own clothes drive, simply give BTR a call and arrange a date for a collection.

It will provide you with a personalised leaflet to share with your students, parents and teachers to promote the drive. One of the company’s friendly drivers will then collect the textiles 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 fundraised. BTR’s office team will also confirm this by email within five working days and payment is made by BACS the following month.

BTR has great plans for new environment-friendly premises and assisting in the further development of the Bristol Textile Quarter. Contact the team via the website to arrange a factory tour.

Ffi: BTR Ltd W: www.btr-ltd.co.uk

26 MAY HALF TERM 2015

15 Avon advertising features May Half Term 2015.indd 26

PRIMARY TIMES

05/05/2015 09:47:32

Adver tising Feature

Red Maids’ climb to new heights • The finishing touches to Red Maids’ two new classrooms are being Junior applied at the Red Maids’ School Junior School in Grange Court headteacher Road, Westbury-on-Trym. The Lisa Brown new single storey extension has been built to help accommodate an additional class each in Years 3 and 4 from September 2015. The development is in response to demand.

Lisa Brown, the Junior School’s Headteacher, said, “The roof is on and the external shape is now clearly apparent. It won’t be long before we will be moving in! We are very excited and eagerly anticipate the new rooms being unveiled.”

Red Maids’ is also the only school in Bristol to have its own observatory, complete with optical telescope and weather station.

The Senior School’s Science Department recently hosted a visit by a local Beavers group aiming for their Space Activity badges. They identified planets and constellations in the night sky, named the planets in our solar system, and found out about a current space mission in order to win their badges.

Science Technician Jacqueline Campbell said, “It was a great evening – well done Beavers!”

There is a rich seam of scientific study at Red Maids’ and the observatory builds on the school’s HiSparc project where students work with university academics and students all over the world to study high-energy cosmic rays which are believed to influence weather patterns.

Visit Red Maids’ Junior School on Wednesday 20 May from 9.30am.

Ffi and to book: T: Mrs Lynn McCabe on 0117 962 9451.

NEW CLIMBING WALL CHALLENGE Little London, Longhope, Glos. GL17 0PH

SUMMERTIME FUN! Daily 10am - 5pm Special holiday events including pet encounters, face painting and lots more!

FOREST OF DEAN - Tourist Attraction of the year!

ONE FREE ADULT valid until 1st September 2015 not to be used in conjunction with any other offer

Free entry for one adult per paying child

As seen on TV!

Tel: 01452 831000 www.dickwhittington.org

©LW

Adver tising Feature

Building bridges Keziah Featherstone, associate headteacher at Bridge Learning Campus, writes: • “The moments of transition can cause the most worry for parents, whether it is your child’s first day at nursery school, or the day you wave them off to university. Bridge Learning Campus understands these concerns and actively works to make such moments seamless and positive. As an ‘all-through’ academy, Bridge Learning Campus works with children aged 3 to 16, ensuring they make great progress. Its primary-aged children start mixing with secondary aged children from Year 5 – just the odd lesson now and again. By the time they reach Year 7 everything is familiar and comforting. The children learn, succeed and thrive.

“But this is not limited to the children who attend Bridge Learning Campus’s primary provision. The school works hard to ensure any new entrant settles quickly and becomes part of the community. Its March 2015 Ofsted Report notes that, ‘The academy makes excellent use of its age 3 to 16 all-through structures, to ensure that pupils move smoothly through the academy and pupils of all ages make good progress. New pupils arriving in Year 7 are integrated well.’

“That is why I am proud not only to be its associate headteacher, but also the parent of a child in Year 3 at Bridge Learning Campus.”

Ffi: Bridge Learning Campus W: www.bridgelearningcampus.org.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

15 Avon advertising features May Half Term 2015.indd 27

Chippenham Museum’s

Scrap Attack!

Come and create your own fantastic scrap art masterpiece for FREE this half term.

May 26, 27 and 28 10.30 am till 2.00 pm For ages 5 to 11 Tel: 01249 705020 or heritage@chippenham.gov.uk 10, Market Place, Chippenham, SN15 3HF MAY HALF TERM 2015 27

05/05/2015 12:49:15

Adver tising Feature

Take the leap!

• Bristol’s newest high ropes outdoor adventure course, Leap of Faith has been open less than a year but it is already a firm favourite. It is rated as one of Bristol’s top ten outdoor activities

by Trip Advisor with rave reviews and lots of repeat visitors.

The highly qualified team offers adrenalinefilled adventure on the 10 metre high climbing tower and climbing challenges such as the “Gladiator”- an inflatable climbing wall. Try out Bristol’s only giant 3G swing, which will see you winched up 30ft before plunging to the ground at speed, or the ‘Leap of Faith’ –

a test of balance and bravery.

Leap of Faith manager, Chris Ireson says, “We offer great outdoor adventure for children and adults aged 5 and over. We are getting lots of party bookings with over 70 booked this year.”

Leap of Faith is based in Wild Place Project near Cribbs Causeway, North Bristol. It is open to both Wild Place Project visitors and the general public at weekends and during school holidays.

Book your Party for eight or more people in May and receive an additional place free!

Ffi: Leap of Faith T: Chris Ireson 01173 737531 W: www.leapoffaith.co.uk E: info@leapoffaith.co.uk

Pewsey vale riding centre Approved Bhs / ABrs Pony club centre Stanton St Bernard, Marlborough | Tel. 01672 851400

riding For childrEn

Forthcoming EvEnts 24th May Pony Club ‘Badge’ Day 27th May ‘Have a Pony Day’ 28th May Pony Club ‘Silver’ Rally th 29 May Rabson Manor X-Country Visit 31st May Pony Club ‘Gold’ Rally

www.pewseyvaleridingcentre.com email: info@pewseyvaleridingcentre.com 28 MAY HALF TERM 2015

15 Avon advertising features May Half Term 2015.indd 28

Adver tising Feature

Lamborghini springs into action • A badger-faced lamb is enjoying his very first steps at the Cattle Country Adventure Park in Gloucestershire thanks to specialist care it is receiving.

The two-week old lamb took his first steps this week and has since been Lamborghini in full flight aptly named Lamborghini, due to the speed he can now travel.

He was born with no muscle ligaments in his front legs and therefore had to have splints and bandages applied to both legs in order to let his muscles heal. The casts have meant he can now walk and park bosses gave him the name after seeing the fast spring in his step. It is hoped the recovery process will be fast and Lamborghini will be able to walk of his own accord within the next few weeks.

Cattle Country’s general manager, Stuart Burnell, says, “He’s a little fighter and is now happily running around Cattle Country with the rest of the flock. We hope the splints will aid his recovery and that he will soon be fully racing around our fields in front of our visitors.”

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

©LW

PRIMARY TIMES

05/05/2015 09:48:44

Adver tising Feature

Join Avon’s big summer of tennis!

• Families from across Avon will be able to go tennis crazy again this summer with free tennis activities available to the whole family as part of the Lawn Tennis Association’s ‘Great British Tennis Weekends’.

Avon Lawn Tennis Association is working to support venues in the county to offer opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to try tennis for free.

Venues will provide the rackets and balls and will offer players the chance to experience a range of tennis activities including Mini Tennis, Cardio Tennis, Disability Tennis, Junior and Adult Coaching and relaxed free play – all completely free as part of the LTA’s drive to get more people playing more often.

The dates for the free Great British Tennis Weekends are: • Sat 16–Sun 17 May • Sat 13–Sun 14 Jun • Sat 1–Sun 2 Aug Ffi: and to find your local event W: www.lta.org.uk/gbtw

Adver tising Feature

Make Some Noise for Mad Science!

• This year Mad Science is proud to be supporting Global’s Make Some Noise children’s charity, which helps disadvantaged children and young people across the UK. These youngsters may be affected by illness, disability, bereavement or lack of opportunity.

In support of this great cause Mad Science is donating 5% of profits from all its summer holiday camps to the fund. This money will then go towards creating fantastic opportunities for children and young people in the community. Mad Science’s very own Rocket Rachel is also tackling a tremendous challenge to raise awareness of the charity’s work by heading on a massive adventure, and trekking across the Grand Canyon!

So, by taking part in Mad Science’s action-packed programme of summer camps this year you can provide your children with an unforgettable experience, while also making a difference to those less fortunate. The group is also taking additional donations for the charity through its new online booking system. Keep an eye out for the Make Some Noise button on there.

The group wishes Rocket Rachel all the best in her mission and hopes that, with your help, this campaign is a real success!

Follow Rachel’s progress through the social media channels on Facebook and Twitter where there will be updates on her targets, training and the trek itself.

Ffi: Mad Science W: www.madsciencesouthwales.co.uk fa: facebook.com/MadScienceSouthWales tw: @madsciencewales

PRIMARY TIMES

15 Avon advertising features May Half Term 2015.indd 29

Family Fun In Tewkesbury The Basil Brush Show

Come and join the mayhem as Mr Stephen tries to control a naughty Basil in the all new Full On Fox Tour! Boom boom!

Thu 28 May 11am & 2.30pm Adults: £14.75, Children: £12.75 Family of 3/4: £10.75 each

Noah - A Musical Adventure Saltmine Theatre Company present a fun family show based on the story of Noah and the Ark, featuring puppetry and dance.

Sat 6 June 7pm

Adults: £14.75, Children: £10.75 Family of 3/4: £10.75 each

PLUS! Family films Home (U) and Cinderella (U)

01684 295074 • www.rosestheatre.org Sun Street, Tewkesbury, Glos GL20 5NX • Reg Charity No: 1051708 All ticket prices are inclusive of a 75p booking fee

MAY HALF TERM 2015 29

05/05/2015 09:50:08

taurus

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✁ 30 MAY HALF TERM 2015 Final_14149b_WW_schools_STD_ad_93x133.indd 1

p30.indd 2

PRIMARY TIMES 13/08/2014 09:35

01/05/2015 14:38:54

4

Farms

from the madding crowd As Bath City Farm celebrates its 20th anniversary, Jayne Randall finds that community farms offer real benefits to city families.

A

mid the underpasses and office blocks of the typical urban environment, families with children often find it hard to connect with the natural world.

In spite of the South West’s rural heritage, some 68% of the region’s population lives in a city, according to the 2011 census.

And, while parks and playgrounds provide essential outdoor space for children to play and develop in the open air, there’s little chance that they’ll encounter a herd of cows, a goat or a flock of geese – regular occurrences in the countryside.

The movement for city farms in the UK first started in the 1980s, perhaps inspired by The Community Garden Movement in the USA and the Children’s Farm Movement in The Netherlands.

The large amount of available urban waste ground from declining industry, plus a widespread sense that children were losing touch with every day rural experiences, encouraged communities to club together to recreate a bit of the countryside in the heart of the city.

As a result, there are many popular city farms in the West Country, including Bath City Farm, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. The farm welcomes 15,000-20,000 people per year and, like similar organisations throughout the region, helps create a sense of community, based on farming and agricultural ideas, among city-dwellers.

Bath City Farm is home to a wealth of animals including Shetland ponies, Dexter cattle, a flock of free range chickens, ducks, a flock of Soay and

PRIMARY TIMES

15 Avon Features May Half Term 2015.indd 9

Clockwise from top left: Feeding chickens at Bath City Farm; a family event at Hartcliffe Community Park Farm; goats at Bath City Farm; children watch chicks hatch at St Werburghs City Farm.

Wiltshire horned sheep, pygmy goats, and rare breed pigs. It also boasts wet weather facilities, cabins and training facilities, offering local people a range of opportunities, including volunteering, school visits, and outdoor family activities. In collaboration with Bath College, it also provides the chance for adults to gain a qualification in horticulture or animal care. The farm’s ‘Grow It Cook It’ program promotes healthy eating by letting local families plant, grow, pick then cook their own vegetables.

Children aged 5 to 10 can help make bonfires, jam or candles, look for foxes or go on a treasure hunt, while visitors are welcome to feed and look after the farm’s animals Down the road in Bristol, Windmill Hill City Farm is home to a host of animals including pigs, goats, chickens and rabbits. It has accessible public areas and offers community and social care as well as an ‘Undercover Gardening’

project, providing facilities for gardening and craft activities whatever the seasons. There’s a gift shop selling local products, while family activities include after-school clubs, a nursery and farm adventures for children aged 2 to 5.

Across the city, St. Werburghs City Farm, aims to connect people to their food, community and natural environment. Schools are able to hire incubators so children can watch eggs develop into baby chicks. Trips include activities like farm tours, pond dipping, fire lighting, storytelling, mini-beast hunting and creative mud play.

Forest school sessions aim to build children’s understanding of the natural world. The farm runs a young farmers event where children learn to care for the animals.

Meanwhile, Lawrence Weston Community Farm was started by a group of enthusiastic local residents on the site of a former Bristol City Council tip and is now

home to a variety of animals. It has an orchard, land for sheep and goats as well as a woodland area for water voles. The farm is dependent on its funders, supporters and volunteers, so consider going for a picnic or other fun activity there this summer.

Built in 1983 by the local residents, Hartcliffe Community Park Farm is an informative public resource for local people. The farm is supported by Bristol City Council and a number of other charities and provides a relaxing environment for families of all ages and abilities.

Schools and colleges can make use of its facilities for courses and work experience programs and it runs run regular, fun events such as a fairground, bouncy castle and cowboy re-enactments.

So, get back to the great outdoors this summer and discover how to get involved in your local community’s city farm!

Bath City Farm W: www.bathcityfarm.org.uk Hartcliffe Community Park Farm W: www.hartcliffefarm.org Lawrence Weston Community Farm W: www.lwfarm.org.uk St Werburghs City Farm W: www.swcityfarm.org.uk Windmill Hill City Farm W: www.windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk

MAY HALF TERM 2015

31

05/05/2015 10:17:58

Weight and see?

Anne Marie Scanlon explores the dangers of childhood obesity, and how its effects can be prevented or reversed.

T

he World Health Organisation (WHO) regards childhood obesity as one of the most serious health problems of the 21st century. In Britain, which has one of the highest rates of childhood obesity in Europe, almost one third of all school children are overweight or obese. The massive increase in numbers since the 1970s has led to the phenomenon being called an “epidemic”. If a child carries excess fat, they risk short and long term health consequences.

These include an increased chance of becoming an obese adult, a higher risk of disability and a shorter life span.

Many of the health problems relating to childhood obesity are those traditionally associated with overweight adults

(see panel). As the number of overweight or obese children has risen, so has the incidence of health issues previously only seen in adults.

Apart from the serious health concerns facing an overweight or obese child there are also the emotional and psychological side effects. We live in an increasingly image-obsessed society and while the link between overweight, obesity and depression is debated, anecdotal evidence suggests that weight issues and low selfesteem are intrinsically linked.

Larger children are more likely to be bullied and discriminated against. Low self-esteem, lack of confidence and the scorn of other children can lead to isolation for the overweight child. Missing school, because

Childhood Obesity Possible Consequences Type 2 diabetes: usually affects adults but increasingly British children under 10 are diagnosed with the condition.

Respiratory problems: Studies suggest that overweight children are up to 50% more likely to develop asthma than their standard weight contemporaries.

Cardiovascular disease: Obese children are more at risk of developing heart disease and other heart problems in later life.

Stress on the musculoskeletal system: children carrying excess weight suffer more pain in their joints, knees, feet, ankles and spines than other children.

Others: Skin infections, early puberty, iron & vitamin D deficiency, raised blood pressure, increased cholesterol, fatty liver disease and gallstones.

If children who are overweight or obese are recognised and treated in childhood or their teenage years, some of these health problems may be reversed or even prevented.

Ffi: W: www.nhs.uk/Livewell/eatingdisorders

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MAY HALF TERM 2015

15 Avon Features May Half Term 2015.indd 10

The usual way to treat a child who is overweight or obese is by introducing lifestyle changes. In most cases the whole family are advised to adopt different eating patterns and to exercise more. of illness or anxiety, can result in falling behind academically which further feeds the downward spiral of feeling inadequate.

So why are our children getting so big? Childhood weight gain is caused by the same things as adult weight gain – eating too much, eating food high in saturated fat and/or sugar (including sugary drinks) and not moving enough. Apart from the obvious culprits (overeating and lack of exercise), not getting enough sleep is also a risk factor for developing weight problems. Lack of sleep, or poor sleep, can interfere with hormone balances which stimulate the desire to eat.

If you are concerned about your child’s weight the first thing to do is to see a medical professional. They can weigh the child and assess their Body

Mass Index (BMI), which is calculated differently from that of an adult. Medical professionals can also test for any underlying problems or conditions which would exacerbate weight gain.

If your child does not have an underlying condition, your local medical practice may be able to refer you to a specific scheme to help prevent or manage childhood obesity.

The usual way to treat a child who is overweight or obese is by introducing lifestyle changes. In most cases the whole family are advised to adopt different eating patterns and to exercise more.

Doctors generally do not recommend “diets” for children, as rapid weight loss is counterproductive in children who are still growing. The ideal outcome is that weight remains steady while the child grows into it.

Current recommendations state that all children should do at least one hour of moderate physical activity every day. An hour is not a long time but with homework and other tasks it can be burdensome for parents to manage. The best way to approach this goal is to break it down into shorter periods.

Walk or cycle to school if you can. Take the scenic route home.

Kick a ball around for a quarter of an hour before dinner. If you don’t have a dog to walk, offer to take your neighbour’s out for a quick stroll. You can combine healthy eating with exercise by walking to the shops every day to purchase fresh fruit and vegetables. Change doesn’t have to be huge and overwhelming. You can start with small adjustments and gradually build up to a fitter, healthier, slimmer lifestyle for all of your family.

Ffi: W: www.nhs.uk/ Change4Life.

PRIMARY TIMES

05/05/2015 10:19:39

fun events

Mad inventors’ club

Lacock Abbey, 23 to 31 May, 10.30am to 5.30pm Do you have what it takes to become a brilliant inventor?

Find out on this wacky hands-on, self-led family trail in the Lacock Abbey grounds.

Wild Wednesday

Avebury, 27 May, 11am to 4pm Join the Avebury rangers for fun in the farmyard and tick off at least one of your ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’.

Normal admission applies to all events.

National Trust members and under 5s go free.

Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/southwest

p33.indd 1

01/05/2015 14:40:37

Hello Kids!

Thank you so much for the lovely pictures you send me. Please keep trying if you weren’t successful. This May Bristol Aquarium, has offered free family membership to three lucky South West winners of next issue’s art competition.

So find out what lives at the bottom of the ocean and send me pictures of “My favourite deep sea creatures”. I’ve heard whales, giant squid, angler fish and even stranger beasts live there. Please send your pictures to: Arty Barty, BN&Media, Temple Way, Bristol, BS2 0BY, or email high resolution jpegs to my editor at his new email address: mike.gartside@b-nm.co.uk Don’t forget to give your name, age, full home postal address (or we can’t send you your prize) and school on the back by Monday 15 June.

Have fun!

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

Arty Barty It was great to get your pictures of endangered animals. Well done to the three winners, who each receive free family admission to Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm Park, Wraxall, near Bristol.

WINNER!

Laura Wenham, 7, Kingsholm C of E Primary School, Gloucester y I love this slightl scary wolf. In spite of his sharp teeth he seems a little bit wide-eyed and vulnerable.

Amy Newell, 11, Manor C of E Primary School, Coalpit Heath, Bristol There’s a very cosy feel to this image of a girl surrounded by a family of pandas. Each has its own personality, while the benign parent watches on.

Rosie Day, 11, Aylburton C of E Primary School, Lydney, Gloucestershire What amazing geometric shapes Rosie has used to create the tiger, in contrast to the beautiful flowing flower behind it. The whole thing has an art deco feel with the tiger patterned border.

Anna Lloyd, 10, Elmlea Junior School, Bristol Direct and to the point, this simple drawing makes its point brilliantly. Well done, Anna, for realising that a great picture doesn’t have to be complicated.

Isabella

WINNER!

School, Bristol 10, Hotwells Primary s the viewer into the aw This vivid collage dr t. A fascinating image ta bi ha l animals’ natura to study it in some nt wa which makes you detail.

8, Nicholas Nikiforou, ool, Locking Primary Schre Weston Super Ma ular More great work by reg What contributor Nicholas. re he a noble, realistic creatu al has drawn, with the faci lfeatures particularly wel observed.

Ben Marks, 6, Sandford Primary School.

Banw This cuddly creature imp ell of his species’ plight. lores us to take notice and the bamboo aroundThe panda is appealing him is well drawn. Good work, Ben!

WINNER! School, Edie Wong, 7, Elm Park Primary Winterbourne, Bristol life, bamboo than r large This panda is so realistic, looking sunny day. in hand as it relaxes on a beautiful 34

MAY HALF TERM 2015

15 Avon Books & Arty Barty May Half Term 2015.indd 34

PRIMARY TIMES

05/05/2015 09:53:54

Primary Times reviews the new releases.

A likely lass

O

ne boisterous little girl, one bogey and a simple decision: to eat it or wipe it? We all know the dilemma.

Little does Mabel Jones know that when she makes the choice it opens the portal to adventures beyond her wildest dreams.

Kidnapped and bundled into a sack, Mabel finds herself aboard the pirate ship, ‘The Feroshus Maggot’ and at the mercy of a band of dastardly pirates captained by the dreaded Idryss Ebeneezer Split, a wolf with a false leg, carved from a human thighbone and the obligatory eye patch. With capers such as milk drinking games, ferocious sea storms and a few added mysterious ship’s logbooks Mabel quickly realises that the quickest way to get home is to beat the pirates at their own game and to help them in their quest.

It’s a great book for helping young readers, as author Will Mabbitt adds expression and drama, with quirky, jaunty and rapidly changing fonts and text directions. Children are drawn into the story as they find themselves reading down the stairs or falling overboard. With the aid of Ross Collins’s excellent black and white illustrations, this new novel will entertain any child between 7 and 11. (Stuart Simner) The Unlikely Adventures of Mabel Jones Will Mabbitt, Puffin Books, £6.99, www.greenpenguin.co.uk

Wings with attitude

Purrfect patterns

Nixie the fairy doesn’t mean to be naughty – but when you’ve got a penchant for mischief and a wonky wand to match, following the rules can be a challenge. Nixie is supposed to be helping prepare for the Blossom Ball but she’d much rather be out having her own adventures. Under the watchful eye of fairy teacher Tabitha Quicksilver, Nixie and her friends set out to bring a little magic to everyday life. But will the ball go off without a hitch?

Nixie makes a great plucky heroine and is a refreshing antidote to the usual princess-perfect fairy characters, embodied in this tale by her nemesis, Adorabella. The illustrations have an almost cut-out, collage quality similar to the work of Charlie and Lola author Lauren Childs, and Nixie’s ripped tights and patchwork dress really bring her character to life. The chapters are short and the prose nicely broken up with illustrations, making this an accessible read for those just beginning to tackle chapter books. It’s likely that the subject matter will appeal predominantly to girls, which could be a shame: Nixie is a funny, warm character who should inspire all who read about her. (Ellen White)

All parents have to deal with children’s inability to maintain regular sleeping patterns. Perhaps this book can suggest a solution: engaging a child’s imagination with magical wallpaper art. As Wendy resists sleep, her parents enlist the help of her jolly granddad, hoping that his comforting wallpapers will allow her to get some much needed shuteye.

Jason Hook’s original story is combined with Ilaria Demonti’s unique illustrations which feature the real, elegant patterns of wallpaper designer Walter Crane.

Wendy’s grandfather’s house comes alive with the smells, sights and touches of roses, oranges and the seaside. The fiddle-playing cat of ‘Hey Diddle Diddle’ is an adorable companion on Wendy’s adventures. It’s an entertaining story with appealing and detailed artwork. Older and younger kids alike will be enchanted by this magical journey. (Jack Reader)

Nixie the Bad, Bad Fairy Cas Lester, £5.99, Oxford University Press, www.oup.com

Wendy and the Wallpaper Cat Jason Hook & Ilaria Demonti, £11.99, V&A Publishing, www.vandapublishing.com

Wheel purpose

A pleasure shared

Restored and reprinted for the first time since the 1940’s, Jack Townend’s ‘Ben’ and ‘Jenny the Jeep’ bring vehicles to life in two heart-warming tales which address the everyday struggle of loneliness, companionship and finding your purpose in life. Leading a solitary existence, Ben the steamroller longs for friendship, while Jenny faces the upsetting rejection of being different.

The writing style is a little on the heavy side – they were written over 70 years ago – but enjoyable nonetheless. The books have simple, easily relatable plots that draw on the difficult issues faced by all children at some time in their lives. The illustrations are beautifully drawn, some in full colour while others are black and white.

With their striking pictures and characters that could have inspired Thomas the Tank Engine, Townend’s tomes are a welcome and charming reissue. Ages 3-7. (Jack Reader)

In a change from the usual novel and picture book releases, Laura Barcella’s BFF journal is the book you write yourself (with the help of your bestest, bestest friend). It’s recognisably good quality, not to mention jam packed with quizzes, questions, space for drawing, and lists to fill in on subjects from family and school to music and love. The idea is for two friends to each fill the journal’s many sections, with ideas ranging from what you think your best friend’s ideal job would be to activities you can enjoy together. It’s certainly a sweet idea and one that could provide a welcome and engaging offline activity for girls aged 8 to 12.

(Ellen White)

Ben and Jenny the Jeep Jack Townend, £5.99 each, V&A Publishing, www.vandapublishing.com

BFF: A Keepsake Journal of Q&As for Best Friends Laura Barcella, Sterling Children’s Books New York, £11.99

PRIMARY TIMES

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MAY HALF TERM 2015

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The John of Gaunt School Trowbridge A Community Academy

For information or to book a tour please call Sandra Nichols on 01225 711156

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Classifieds Summer School

Soap and bath bomb making parties

Tuition

Storytelling Summer School rd

th

August 3 -7 / Easton-in-Gordano Calling all 6-11 yr olds.

Join us to explore fairy tales & Folklore and create a performance from scratch

Creative and fun, hands-on parties.

Mobile party leader comes to you and runs a session making beautiful practical gifts to take home.

Ages 5 to adult

liz@thestorycellar.co.uk W: www.thestorycellar.co.uk

©LW

Swimming

No mess, no fuss, just lovely smells 07595 350 764

©LW

www.bubbletastic.co.uk

Call 07812399467

ericsemail@orange.net

QUALITY SWIMMING LESSONS FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES SMALL CLASSES & STROKE TECHNIQUE A PRIORITY AT ST. MARY REDCLIFFE SCHOOL EVERY WEEK DAY 4-6PM & SATURDAY 9AM ONWARDS CLIFTON HIGH SCHOOL SUNDAY 9-11AM BABY/TODDLER CLASSES: 6 MONTHS - 2.5 YEARS PRE-SCHOOL CLASSES: 2.5YRS SCHOOL AGE CLASSES: 4 YRS UPWARDS MINI SQUAD SESSIONS ADULT LESSONS ADULT FITNESS SESSIONS INDIVIDUAL LESSONS: ALL AGES

FULL DETAILS SEE WEB:

www.wavesswimschool.co.uk OR CONTACT JENNY 01275 877428/JACKIE 01275 790457 CAROLINE 01275 865185 ©LW

Gymnastics

• Tuition on Acoustic and Electric Guitar • Beginners to advanced (any age welcome!)

• Enhanced CRB/DBS clearance • Available to teach in school holidays • Discounts available for teaching small groups • Able to travel city wide

Kingswood Foundation BS15 8DB

JIM JOHNSTON

May HOLIDay FUN SESSIONS

Tel: 0787 0887242 E-mail: jim@jimjohnstonmusic.com www.guitarlessonsbristol.com

Dial-a-Violin-lesson! on violin and recorder • Tuition offered for all ages (of any age) and more • Beginners advanced players are welcome.

• I will visit if this is more convenient.

Kate Cullin Portbury 01275 371056

TUESDay, THUrSDay, FrIDay 10 - 3pm £12 per day (sibling discounts available) Gymnastics, Trampolining, Airtrack, Bouncy castle Parachute and Disco games. Crafs.

Call to book a space or just come along on the day.

Phone 0117 947 6449 e-mail: admin@kingswoodgymnastics.co.uk Visit our new website at www.kingswoodgymnastics.co.uk ©LW

Horse Riding Wapley Riding Stables Piano, Sax, Guitar, Drums, Cello, Flute Individual lessons and group workshops Summer Supervised Practice sessions Summer Sight Reading crash course for children from 3 to adults

BRISTOL MUSIC SCHOOL www.bristolmusicschool.com

©LW

Party Ideas

TO ADVERTISE CALL CAROLINE ON: 0117 934 3737 OR EMAIL: CAROLINE.STRETTON@B-NM.CO.UK

Riding Lessons for all ages and abilities • Patient and friendly tuition • Good selection of horses and ponies available • All aspects of riding, horse care and stable management • BHSAI Qualified and Experienced Instructors • Floodlit outdoor riding arenas • Gift vouchers available

Crime scene investigation parties and workshops for children age 7+ tel 0117 244 0053 web www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk

Sing with FROZEN characters or have a swashbuckling time with Pirates in our themed parties!

Billy and Bobby Children's Entertainment

Tel: 01934 510283 • 07831200020

Making swimming lessons fun for all abilities

enquiries@wapleystables.co.uk www.wapleystables.co.uk

Clifton:

Friday Evening: Non-swimmers to Improvers Saturday Daytime: Non-swimmers to Improvers Saturday Evening: Lane Classes, Adult Learn to Swim, Adult Improvers, Youth Swim for Fitness & Adult Swim for Fitness Monday Evening: Non-Swimmer to Improvers Tuesday Evening: Non-Swimmer to Advanced Lane Classes

Westbury-on-Trym:

Tuesday Evening: Advanced Lane Classes Wednesday: Non swimmer to Improvers Sunday All Day: All abilities Register online: www.splash-happy.co.uk Email: hazel@splash-happy.co.uk Tel: 01454 228817

PIANO LESSONS Tuition in Classical, Jazz, Blues, Pop.

0117 904 8648

TUTORING

Book now for FREE bouncy castle hire Limited period only

Wapley Hill, Westerleigh, Bristol. BS37 8RJ 01454 321583 or 07860530199

Martial Arts

Daytime, after school, evenings.

Children and Adults.

Optional ABRSM exams.

To book a free intro lesson contact Patrick Hammerman ©LW

Disco, games, face painting and more!

©LW

Fun-filled Parties!

Modern martial arts in a fun and friendly environment • Little Puma’s 4-6 yrs • Juniors 6-12 yrs • Cadets 12-16 yrs • Adults 16+ For information or to book TWO FREE trial classes contact instructor Ms Tiina Elise 07729 358691 or hdtkd@live.com (please quote Primary Times)

©LW

LEARNING SUCCESS FOR ALL • Literacy & Maths 5-11 yr olds • Preparation for SATs & 11+ • Help with Dyslexia Tel: JENNY MADDERN 07905 802267 jennymaddern@yahoo.co.uk

HANHAM & DOWNEND TAEKWON-DO

Business Opportunities Part time roles... earning a full time income to fit around the school runs

Looking for aLt ativ party bags?

Party bags flled with art and craft activity kits for boys and girls aged 4-11 jenny@redfoxcraftbags.co.uk redfoxcraftbags.co.uk 077 330 24940 PRIMARY TIMES

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©LW

Art and craft party kits are also available

Working with a fantastic team, working flexible hours & having great fun!!

Full training & support given.

Please contact Niki on 07720 887080 or visit my website www.nikiglobalacesgroup.myforever.biz Independent Distributor of Forever Living Products Aloe Vera drinking gels, supplements, skincare & personal care products.

Forever Living Products, Longbridge Manor, Warwick CV34 6RB, members of the Direct Selling Association. ©LW Ref no. Hoap0122

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SMALL CHANGE FOR BIG CHANGES

Y

W

WATER WAYS

e in the West can be guilty of taking clean water for granted from time to time. But people living in countries where water is in scant supply don’t have that luxury.

International charity Wateraid has launched its latest project, the Pupil Pipeline challenge, to devise ways of helping those communities, and schools across the region can easily get involved. The project asks pupils to devise innovative ways of transporting water along a line without spilling a drop.

Using buckets, bottles, jars or even wellies to pass along the water, WaterAid promises a fun and educational activity that will get pupils thinking about the importance of water and inspire them to help get this vital resource to children who

need it most.

All participating pupils will be asked to donate £2, the cost of one metre of pipeline, which could help transport clean, safe water to children in the developing world.

As Felicity de Ste Croix of WaterAid says, “The Pupil Pipeline is a fantastic way to teach children that one in 10 people around the world are not lucky enough to have this vital resource at the turn of the tap. It also provides the means for them to take action and do something about it.” With over 748 million people across the globe lacking access to safe, clean water, this is a great chance for local children to raise awareness and help those in need.

Ffi: WaterAid W: www.wateraid.org.uk/joinpipeline

ou may think that charity fundraising has to involve big televised events or supersized projects. However, your small change really can make a big difference for Newlife, which funds specialist equipment for disabled under 19s. The charity has recently launched a series of individual county funds, giving local people the opportunity to directly help disabled children in their area. According to Newlife’s website, Avon is home to seven children in urgent need of the equipment they source, at a total cost of £3,601. To help pupils and teachers raise the cash, Newlife has released a schools fundraising pack, which includes a step-by-step guide to making a collection tin from household items. As Newlife’s Jane Vincent says, “It’s a great way to teach children the value of money and make them aware that other youngsters in the area need specialist help to enjoy everyday activities.”

One child who has already benefited from the charity’s vital support is 3-year-old Wiltshire boy Ashton Bonner (pictured), who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy. With the help of Newlife, Ashton was given a new specialist wheelchair which is a quarter of the weight

of his previous model. Ashton’s grandmother Maria says, “The new buggy has changed our lives. The tray on the old buggy caught on everything and it was impossible to push it along anything but flat, even ground. We can go wherever we want with it now. Ashton loves it.” So start saving your pennies for Newlife now!

Ffi: Newlife fundraising pack T: 0800 9884640 W: www.newlifecharity.co.uk

A DAY TO REMEMBER

D

o you know a local family in need of a well-deserved treat? The Downend branch of The Round Table, the national charity fundraising organisation, is joining in a countrywide search identifying local families to enjoy a free day out at Drayton Manor Theme Park, Staffordshire (pictured), on Sat 4 July.

The event celebrates the 25th anniversary of Round Table Children’s Wish, a charity set up by Round Tablers, which grants wishes to children with life-limiting illnesses.

Nominations are open to any family with children aged 4 to 17 who are either suffering from, or have recovered from, a life limiting illness. Round Table national president Marcus Jones says, “We have asked every Round Table Club in the country to find a family in their community to spend a day at Drayton Manor Theme Park. We want families to have a fantastic day to remember – something a million miles away from the day-to-day issues they encounter.” To nominate a fam38

MAY HALF TERM 2015

15 Avon Features May Half Term 2015.indd 12

in 7 amazing forest locatio ns

We have a set of 4 tickets to win to see The Vamps in concert at Westonbirt Arboretum, nr.

Tetbury on Sunday 21 June. For your chance to win answer this question correctly:

WIN TICKETS TO SEE

THE VAMPS LIVE IN CONCERT!

How many forest locations are hosting Forest Live concerts?

Email your correct answer and contact details with “The Vamps Westonbirt” in the header to: competitions@razzpublications.co.uk by 17/6/15

ily you feel deserves this exciting day out, email the group at the address below.

Ffi: Round Table Children’s Wish W: www.thebiggestwish.co.uk E: ask@downendrt.co.uk

www.forestry.gov.uk/music or tel. 03000 680400 PRIMARY TIMES

05/05/2015 10:21:05

WE’RE PROUD TO BE BRISTOL’S NO.1 ATTRACTION AND TOP 10 IN THE UK (TripAdvisor 2014/2015)

A great day out for the whole family FREE unlimited return visits for a year* FREE for children aged 4 and under FREE events and audio tours SAVE on family tickets *Excludes schools, groups and venue hire guests.

BRUNEL’S ss GREAT BRITAIN, GREAT WESTERN DOCKYARD, BRISTOL BS1 6TY

ssgreatbritain.org

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www.bristolgrammarschool.co.uk

Open Evening Friday 2 October 2015 4.00pm–8.00pm

Ad ve

Whole School

e ur nt

(until 7.00pm for BGS Infants and Juniors)

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

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