Primary Times Avon Christmas 2014

in Avon Issue 187 11 Dec 2014-12 Feb 2015

Also

Europe’s green capital Modern manners Last minute Christmas

name!

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Children will love this exciting new production of Rumpelstiltskin at the egg, Bath, this Christmas. Page 4

Download the Primary Times app, free! Page 3

Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

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CHRISTMAS 2014

Redland Court, Bristol BS6 7EF 0117 924 5796 | admissions@redlandhigh.com www.redlandhigh.com

PRIMARY TIMES

21/11/2014 15:46:05

It’s the time of year when children’s pester power reaches a peak. But parents have a secret weapon up their sleeves, too. “Put it on your Christmas list and if you’re good, Santa may bring it for Christmas.” The strategy has extracted me from many a shop over the years with nerves and wallet just about intact. But if you still need some extra presents, check out our last minute gift guide, with everything available locally so you don’t have to rely on the post (P31).

Next year, Bristol is Europe’s Green Capital and we look at how schools and families can get involved in this exciting initiative (P6), working for a sustainable future for us all.

THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P13 PINBOARD P23 ADVERTISING FEATURES P26 PUPILS’ PAGE P34 CLASSIFIEDS P37 SIMPLY CAPITAL P6 Bristol is the UK’s first European Green Capital. Daisy Bartholomew gets involved.

MODERN MANNERS P21 From ”jetiquette” to traditional ‘p’s & q’s’.

LAST GASP GIFTS P31 in Avon 2015 4-12 Feb 11 Dec 201 Issue 187

the editor

Two pages of seasonal treats.

Also

n Europe’s gree capital ners Modern man Last minute Christmas

name!

PRIMARY TIMES IS NOW AVAILABLE AS AN APP

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https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/primary-times/id674066003?mt=8 Downloadary

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11:40:43

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Primary Times in Avon

Bristol News and Media, Temple Way, Bristol BS99 7HD. More information at www.primarytimes.net

Editor Mike Gartside

mike.gartside@venue.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 Simon Butler

0117 934 3741

simon.butler@b-nm.co.uk Design Cath Evans, Mike Gartside Production Emma Gorton, Ruth Wood Proof reading Ellen White Main office 0117 942 8491 Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in Primary, Junior, Infant and Middle Schools throughout the former Avon area, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. It is also available by subscription at £10 per year.

Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions, and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically 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 Primary Times or the relevant contributor.

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PRIMARY TIMES

14 Avon contents Xmas 2014.indd 3

Find these amazing offers this issue!

Table Table – Kids eat free, weekdays before 5pm PLUS a free gift for every child visiting this Christmas.

Puzzlewood – Children under 2 go free.

Bristol City Open Top Guide – Free hot drinks, mince pies and chocolate on the ‘Twilight and Illuminations’ tour.

Richardson Hotels – Kids go free for February half term.

Bristol Aquarium – Kids go free CHRISTMAS 2014

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Rum pelst il t Thu 2 he egg, B tskin www. 7 Nov - S ath theat un 4 r e r oyal. Jan 0122 or 5 82 340 g.uk 9

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You’ll be spinning around with excitement at the egg, Bath, this Christmas because the tale they’ve woven for you is pure gold.

‘R

umpelstiltskin’ brings West End magic to the stage at the egg in Bath, this winter, with a brand new musical theatre show designed to bring light to the dark winter days ahead.

It tells the story of Emily, a hard working miller’s daughter who lives with her dim-witted dad.

Desperate to impress the King, Emily’s dad makes promises on her behalf that she really can’t keep. Her

Spinning tonight Rumpelstiltskin runs from Thu 27 Nov to Sun 4 Jan. Tickets are £17 for adults and £12 for children (suitable for over 7s). School tickets are £8 and teachers go free. Other party discounts and some matinee discounts are available.

Ffi and to book: the egg T: 01225 823409 or Theatre Royal Box Office T: 01225 448844 W: theatreroyal.org.uk

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growing despair at this bargain lures a strange creature to her side.

Rumpelstiltskin is an unworldly character who feeds on people’s fear. He offers to help Emily in her impossible task as she is forced to sit and spin straw into gold. At first he just asks for her necklace in return, but it soon emerges that the payment he really wants is much more valuable to her than that.

In an evening filled with toe-tapping, finger-clicking songs audiences follow Emily’s plight as she tries night after night to spin enough gold to please the King. Will she outwit her foolish father? Will she guess the name of her sinister saviour in time to save the life of her first-born child?

Written for a 21st Century audience by humourist and performance poet Matt Harvey (from BBC

Crystal Condi plays Rumpelstiltski n

Radio 4’s ‘Saturday Live’ and ‘Word of Mouth’), ‘Rumpelstiltskin’ features a stonking and sophisticated musical score by award winning composer Thomas Hewitt Jones (composer of the music for London 2012’s animated mascot films).

And, as if that’s not enough, this production is directed by Lotte Wakeham, fresh from her work on the award-winning family shows ‘Matilda’ and ‘Lizzie Siddall’.

Among the cast, the egg is delighted

Richard Lowe plays The King

to welcome Iris Roberts (‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’) and Stephen Leask (‘One Man,Two Guvnors’), ably supported by a live band onstage.

There is more opportunity to catch the show this year as well as the egg opens a week earlier than usual to give your family or your school more dates to choose from. So get along, treat your family to tickets, and discover all the magic, mischief and menace in this thrilling take on a classic fairy tale.

PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2014 13:44:08

A familyfriendly career opportunity! for business minded people who share a passion for music and young children.

PRIMARY TIMES

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Simply

Capital In 2015 Bristol will be the first UK city to become “Green Capital” of Europe. Daisy Bartholomew finds out what that means for parents, schools and children in the city.

S

tockholm’s done it, Copenhagen’s done it.

Now it’s Bristol’s turn to be European Green Capital, the first British city to be awarded the honour, according to Savita Custead, director of education and engagement for Bristol 2015, which runs this high profile Europe-wide initiative. The city won the accolade, it seems, because Bristolians have demonstrated inventive and ingenious ways of building a sustainable urban environment by cycling further and recycling more than our neighbouring cities. What’s more, if the Bristol 2015 team gets its way, Bristolians will have taken a great leap towards sustainability by the end of the year through a range of initiatives involving families, school children and teachers.

“Bristol 2015 has been working closely with the Bristol City Council and the Green Capital Partnership to create a brilliant programme for the community,” says Savita. “We are putting together a special education programme around themes including nature, food, energy, transport, waste and resources. The schools programme will be based both inside and outside the classroom, targeting both families and teachers.”

It’s expected that the green capital year will tie in closely with the Shaun the Sheep sculpture trail scheduled in Bristol this July. “Shaun the Sheep has won an award for being the ‘favourite brand’ of Key Stage 2 students. We hope we can use Shaun’s fun, quirky appearance to encourage children and families to take part in nature walks and diverse green projects.”

Among these projects are a range of volunteering programmes

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Bristol’s Tree Pips scheme runs a community planting week which aims to plant 36,000 new trees in Bristol by spring 2016.

Festival of Future Cities (Nov) – Commissioned writers, artists, filmmakers, poets, architects and others will be drawn to the city to bring together all the lessons learned during the year.

So, whether you’re an school or neighbourhood group with big environmental plans for your community, a family who is just curious about the issues, or a volunteer who wants to get stuck in, there’s sure to be something for you in Bristol 2015.

gest Bike Events like Bristol’s Big green success Ride helped the city to

encouraging whole families to take a day out to help tidy up neighbourhoods and make a difference to the city.

There is some grant funding available for schools and communities through the Bristol 2015-linked Neighbourhood Partnerships Fund.

Broomhill Junior School was among the first recipients, of funding under this scheme, receiving £2,000 to create a small farm in its school ground, complete with chickens.

It aims to teach children about the cycle of nature, the seasons and caring for animals and, at the end of it, even provide a few eggs!

Families can get involved with Bristol 2015 through its many volunteering programmes, encouraging parents to get involved in clean-up projects as a family and make a difference to the city. These free events offer a learning opportunity for all families in the area, according to Savita.

As Primary Times went to press, Bristol 2015 was still keeping its full

programme under wraps, promising to announce its events calendar on Monday 8 December, with an all singing, all dancing opening event in mid-January, offering full details on how you can get involved. In the meantime the types of project Bristol families can look forward to include: Bristol Blue Whale (April) – Help to create a life-size sculpture of a blue whale made from recycled materials.

The Blue Whale aims to present the beauty of ocean life, and the growing human threats it faces.

Bristol 2015 Youth Summit (April) – Brings together the next generation for presentations, debates and workshops, followed by a rally on Earth Day (22nd April) that hopes to send a message from the young people of Bristol to the world.

Solar Balloon (August) – Bristolian manufacturer Cameron Balloons will unveil the world’s first modern solar powered balloon at the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.

Community Tree Planting Week (Nov) – In National Tree Week,

Bristol 2015 W: www.bristol2015.co.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

26/11/2014 12:22:45

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CHRISTMAS 2014 7

21/11/2014 15:50:02

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

BATH BATH FORUM Bath Forum, 1a Forum Buildings, St James Parade, Bath, BA1 1UG. 0844 888 9991, www.bathforum. co.uk The Snowman Tue 23 Dec, 4pm. £16.50 (adult)/£8.80 (child) • Experience Raymond Briggs’ wonderful film classic with Howard Blake’s score performed by a live orchestra. With carols, lots of audience participation, a visit from Santa and a Christmas-themed fancy dress parade for children.

THE EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www.theatreroyal.org.uk Rumpelstiltskin until Sun 4 Jan, various times, £17 (adult)/£12 (children and students) • A musical show for the family. This modern production retells the Grimm Brothers’ classic tale with plenty of magic, mischief and menace.

See feature Page 4. Ages 8+.

Stickman Thu 11 Dec, 10am & 11am, £2.50 • Join Jackie and Pooja from the ever popular

If Only Rosa Could do Magic, the egg, Bath, Thu 26-Sat 28 Feb

Dinkies Storytime group as they bring your favourite stories to life in this fun storytelling session for pre-schoolers and their parents.

Lemony Snicket’s Latke who Couldn’t Stop Screaming Wed 7-Sat 10 Jan, 10.30am & 1pm, Sat 11.30am & 3pm, £6.50-£7.50 • This adaptation of the absurdly funny story by author Lemony Snicket is vividly brought to life in Tall Stories’ unique physical style, with live music, lots of laughs

Review Captain Barnacle Pirate Panto The Matthew, Bristol Docks

Step aboard, landlubbers and scurvy dogs!

The hubbub as cabin boys and girls, plus accompanying family members, pick their way through the gangways and ropes on the deck of The Matthew is very different from the usual theatre experience. There’s no curtain, of course, so our host, Captain Barnacle, mingles amiably with the passengers aboard Bristol’s much-loved recreation of the ship in which John Cabot sailed to Newfoundland over 500 years ago.

As we set off around the docks, the good Cap’n, aka Chris Brown of Mr Brown’s Pig fame, launches into a briny tragedy. He, the good pirate, sets off with his wife and baby, to discover hidden treasure. He engages the children in a series of Beano-style puns (“What’s a pirate’s favourite animal? An aaaarhdvark”), delivered with such enthusiasm that you forgive the corniness. After all, this is perhaps the first time this young audience will have heard such banter.

Using a set of puppets that look like they’ve been disinterred from Blackbeard’s murkiest stash we are hauled through a light-hearted story of treachery and betrayal exploring the morally dubious world of panto piracy. Moustaches are drawn on faces, planks are walked and audience members have to cradle the wounded Barnacle as we chug up the docks. The occasional exchanges of “Aaaarh” with passing boats and dockside walkers, adds to the hilarity.

While costumes and puppets alike would benefit from a visit to a modern dry cleaner, this light-hearted introduction to black humour succeeds in awaking these children’s curiosity in Bristol’s seafaring past. (Mike Gartside)

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and a screaming potato pancake.

Ages 5+ Wigglegiggle Fri 16-Sat 17 Jan, Fri 10am &1pm Sat 11.30 & 3pm, £6.50-£7.50, Ages 3-5 yrs • This is an energetic, gigglesome mashup of wonderful words, marvellous music and the silliest of sounds.

Designed to engage children’s imaginations and to enchant their eyes and ears, it has been inspired by listening to the conversations children have with each other.

The Comedy of Errors Fri 23 Jan-Sat 24 Jan, Fri 10.30am & 1pm Sat 2pm & 7pm, £10-£12, Ages 8+ • Pocket Comedy serves up Shakespeare’s tale of two sets of estranged twins, separated at birth, who find themselves in the same city 25 years later with hilarious consequences.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Thu 5 Feb, 10am & 11am, £2.50 • Join Jackie and Pooja from the ever popular Dinkies Storytime group as they bring your favourite stories to life in this fun storytelling session for pre-schoolers and their parents.

Arabian Nights Thu 12-Sat 14 Feb, 7pm (Thu & Fri) 10am, 2pm & 7pm (Sat), £6.50-£7.50 • The Royal Shakespeare Company offer Dominic Cooke’s adaptation of this traditional tale: King Shahrayer has decreed that, whenever he marries, his new wife must die the following morning. On her wedding night, Shahrazad‘s only hope is to enchant the King with her tales of magic and adventure.

Bewitched by dazzling characters like Ali Baba, Es-Sindibad the Sailor, giants, beasts, menacing ghouls, scheming thieves and birds that can talk, the King defers the execution for a thousand and one nights. Will he spare Shahrazad’s life forever? Ages 6+ The Cat in the Hat Tue 17-Sat 21 Feb, 11am & 1pm (Tue-Thu) 11am, 1pm & 3pm (Fri & Sat), £6.50-£7.50 • With the trickiest of tricks and

craziest of ideas, Dr Seuss’s comic creation turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing adventure. But what will Mum find when she gets home? Ages 3+ If Only Rosa Could Do Magic Thu 26-Sat 28 Feb, 10.30am & 1pm (Thu & Fri) 11.30am & 3pm (Sat), £6.50-£7.50 • She has the sweetest dress, the loveliest hair, lots of pink toys & as much candy as she could wish for, so why is Rosa still sad? With no friends to play with and her parents are always away, Rosa creates her own dream world filled with dragons and frogs and parents who understand and have time to be with her. Ages 5+ We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Tue 27 Mar, 10am & 11am, £2.50 • Join Jackie and Pooja from the ever popular Dinkies Storytime group as they bring your favourite stories to life in this fun storytelling session for pre-schoolers and their parents.

King John Wed 4-Thu 5 Mar, 7pm (Wed) 1pm & 7pm (Thu), £6.50£7.50 • England’s green and pleasant land is torn with conflict in Shakespeare’s history play.

Hammerpuzzle’s version captures the dynamism of this compelling tale remaining true to the original text. Ages 8+ THE RONDO THEATRE St. Saviours Road, Bath BA1 6RT. 01225 463362, www.rondotheatre.co.uk The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness! Sat 6 Dec, 2pm, £5/£8 • Squashbox Theatre’s new show combines everything Christmassy with an insight into festive science. So, meet a snowman who lives in the fridge, spot some naughty elves, play hunt the Brussels sprout, endure the world’s worst Christmas jumper and gaze at the “beautiful” Christmas fairy.

Twelfth Night Thu 11-Sun 14 Dec and Tue 16-Sat 20 Dec, 2.30pm/7.30pm, £10/£12 • A special Christmas version of Shakespeare’s hilarious comedy. Featuring Christmas songs, quick changes, mistaken identity, cross-dressing and gags a-plenty, Twelfth Night is the proto-panto you won’t want to miss this Yuletide.

THEATRE ROYAL Sawclose, Bath, BA1 1ET. 01225 823409. www.theatreroyal.org.uk.

Cinderella Thu 11 Dec-Sun 11 Jan, various times, £8-£29 • Classic fairy tale starring Dani Harmer of CBBC’s ‘Tracy Beaker’ fame as Cinderella. Treated as a servant by her wicked stepsisters, Cinderella needs all the magic » PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2014 13:03:15

First Steps and Carly Elizabeth SCHOOL OF DANCE

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Junior School, Mrs Lynn McCabe 0117 962 9451 Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9 4DP PRIMARY TIMES

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@RedMaidsSchool /redmaidsschool

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CHRISTMAS 2014 9

21/11/2014 15:50:24

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

ring CBeebies star Ben Faulks and popular panto dame Eric Potts.

Jersey Boys Tue 26 May-Sat 13 Jun, 7.30pm, £21.90-£58.40 • Starring Tim Driesen as Frankie Valli (also with Matt Corner as Frankie at certain performances).

This remarkable true story charts the rise of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons to stardom from the wrong side of the tracks. These four boys from New Jersey became one of the most successful bands in pop history, were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and sold 175 million records worldwide, all before they turned 30.

Dick Whittington, The Hippodrome, Bristol, Sat 6 Dec-Sun 5 Jan.

»

her fairy godmother can muster, along with help from her best friend, Buttons, if she is to meet her Prince Charming and find true love before the clock strikes midnight.

Peter Pan Goes Wrong Mon 16 Feb-Sat 21 Feb, 2.30pm (Wed & Sat), 7.30pm (Mon-Wed), 8pm (Thu-Sat), £17.50-£33.50 • The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society set out to present J.M. Barrie’s classic story of the boy who wouldn’t grow up. But, as the title suggests, everything that can go wrong does, as the accidentprone thespians embark on a thrilling adventure to Neverland with hilarious results.

loves Christmas. All he wants is for each Christmas to be perfect: mince pies, stockings, mistletoe and especially lots of snow. Little does he know, it’s not Santa or the elves, but the Trolls of Winter who bring the snow, and they’re fed up of getting none of the credit.

Expect silliness, laughter and stunning puppets.

BLAKEHAY THEATRE Wadham Street, Weston-superMare, BS23 1JZ. 01934 645493 www.blakehaytheatre.ticketsource.co.uk Nutcracker Sweet Wed 17-Mon 22 Dec, various times, £7.50 • A family Christmas musical by David Wood. Follow the struggles of the nuts as they fight against the villainous confectioner Professor Jelly Bon Bon who wants to use them in his chocolate assortments.

THE BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org. uk The Magic Elves until Sun 3 Jan, various times. £13/£7.50 • Life is a party for the Magic Elves. They love to play, dance and be very silly! But they get a shock when they move to an old shoe shop and realise not everyone is as happy as they are. The Magic Elves must help put a smile back on the shoemaker’s face in time for the Christmas Disco. Ages 3+.

Swallows and Amazons until Sat 17 Jan, various times, £5-£30 • Back by popular demand, this family musical is a story of an idyllic era of endless summer evenings and the beauty of youthful imagination. Follow Captain John and his able crew as they set sail to Wildcat Island on an exotic adventure to encounter savages, capture dastardly pirates and defeat mortal enemies.

Room on the Broom Tue 31 MarThu 2 April, 10.30am (Wed & Thu) 1.30pm (Tue-Thu) 4.30pm (Tue), £12.50-£45 • The witch and her cat are flying happily along on their broomstick when a stormy wind blows the witch’s hat, bow and wand away into the night. Julia Donaldson’s tale is brought to life beautifully, animating the characters who help our heroine escape the hungry dragon. Ages 3+

THE BREWERY THEATRE 291 North Street, Southville, Bristol BS3 1JP. 0117 902 0344, www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com Santa’s Little Trolls Wed 10 Dec-Sun 4 Jan, 11am/2pm/4pm, £8/£9 • A magical extravaganza from Pickled Image especially for the festive season. Jeremy really

THE BRISTOL HIPPODROME St. Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www.atgtickets. com/bristol Dick Whittington Sat 6 Dec-Sun 5 Jan, 2pm & 7pm, £10-£39.50 • Britain’s Got Talent winners Ashleigh and Pudsey star in this year’s family pantomime. Also star-

KINGSWOOD SCHOOL THEATRE Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5RG. 01225 427108, www.bathunityplayers.co.uk Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs Wed 17-Sat 20 Dec, 7.15pm, £8-£10 • Bath Unity Players celebrate their 70th birthday with this traditional pantomime, with special effects and projections.

BRISTOL

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14 Avon Theatre listings Xmas 2014.indd 10

COLSTON HALL Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5AR. 0844 887 1500, www.colstonhall. org Peter and the Wolf and The Snowman Sat 13 Dec, 6pm, £13.44£26.88 • Delight your family this Christmas with a double bill of wellloved festive family stories accompanied by a live orchestra and narrated by Sanjeev Bhaskar. Hear the characters of Prokofiev’s Peter and The Wolf come to life, from dancing strings, quacking oboes, fluttering flutes and prowling horns. After the interval the classic animated film The Snowman by Raymond Briggs, shown on the big screen, is enhanced by classics like ‘Walking in the Air’ and other music by the live orchestra.

Mini Messiah Family Concert Sat 20 Dec, 4.30pm, £7 (adult)/ free (accompanied under 18’s), www.bristolchoral.co.uk • A familyfriendly introduction to Handel’s Messiah, as it returns for its fifth annual outing. With large choir (Bristol Choral Society), vocal soloists and the orchestra Music for Awhile playing on period instruments, this is the perfect start to any family Christmas.

THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE High Street, Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, BS23 1HP. 01934 645544, www.parkwoodtheatres. co.uk Peter Pan Thu 11 Dec-Sun 4 Jan, various times, £13.95 (group/ school/family rates available) • Be transported to Neverland in this production of the classic children’s family favourite.

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

Alice in Wonderland and What She Found There until Thu 18 Dec, 10am, 2pm & 7pm, £8-£17 • Following last year’s sell-out production of ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’, Bristol Old Vic Theatre School presents the adventures of Lewis Carroll’s Alice and her encounters with the White Rabbit, Mad Hatter, Queen of Hearts and many more. T: 0117 973 3955.

THE TOBACCO FACTORY Raleigh Rd, Avon, Bristol, BS3 1TF. 0117 902 0060. www.tobaccofactory.com

101 Dalmations until-Sun 11 Jan, various times, £8/£11/£15/£19 • Mr and Mrs Dearly love dogs, especially their two dalmatians, Pongo and Perdita. Cruella De Vil loves fur and doesn’t have much time for anything living. When Pongo and Perdita’s fifteen new-born dalmatian puppies go missing it doesn’t take a genius to work out who has kidnapped them – and now the clock is ticking before they’re gone forever. Warm hearted and playful, told with creative storytelling, original live music and lots of laughs.

FURTHER AFIELD THE BACON THEATRE Dean Close School, Shelbourne Road, Cheltenham GL51 6HE. 01242 258002, www.bacontheatre.co.uk Ali Baba & the 40 Thieves Wed 21-Sun 25 Jan, £10-£16 • This classic tale, set in Baghdad, follows the adventures of young Ali Baba and his trusty camel and their attempts to stop the evil Mustapha Lot from stealing an all-powerful sword. Can he save the day? “Oh yes he can!”

EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk Sleeping Beauty until Sun 11 Jan, various times, £13-£21 • This version of the classic fairy tale features the hilarious antics of Tweedy the Clown.

Match Fri 5-Wed 24 Dec, various times, £7.50 • Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s ‘The Little Match Girl’, this is a heart-warming, magical and life affirming tale for all the family.

THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7HG. 01242 522852 www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk/ Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Tue 16-Wed 31 Dec, various times, £8-£15 • One of the best-loved Christmas stories, A Christmas Carol tells the journey of discovery for Ebenezer Scrooge, notorious miser and Christmas-hater.

ROSES THEATRE The Roses, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 5NX. 01684 295074, www.rosestheatre.org Beauty and the Beast until Sat 3 Jan, various times. £10-£23 • Complete with a host of “it’s behind you’s” and “Oh yes he did, Oh no he didn’ts”, this pantomime about falling in love with the most unlikely of beasts is a perfect Christmas family treat.

THE WYVERN THEATRE Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. 01793 524481, www.swindontheatres.co.uk Dick Whittington Sat 6 Dec–Mon 4 Jan, various times, £13.50-£28 • Nigel Havers stars as King Rat in this enchanting Christmas pantomime. This production will be brought to life with an abundance of comedy, stunning sets, and fabulous costumes.

PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2014 13:04:01

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Perrygrove Road Coleford GL16 8QB 01594 833187 www.puzzlewood.net All children will receive a gift from Santa and his elves.

PRIMARY TIMES

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Colston’s School, Stapleton, Bristol BS16 1BJ Enquiries: 0117 965 5207 admissions@colstons.bristol.sch.uk

Educating for life

Exams for Year 7 entry

Saturday January 10th 2015 (9.30am-12.30pm)

Junior Entry Assessments

Saturday January 24th 2015 (9am-12.15pm)

Lower School Open Morning

Friday January 16th 2015 (9.30 -11.30am)

www.colstons.bristol.sch.uk Registered Charity No 1079552

Scholarships and bursaries available

An inspirational independent school for boys and girls aged 4-11 years

“..an extremely warm and friendly environment where ŚĂƉƉLJ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŶĨŝĚĞŶƚ ƉƵƉŝůƐ ĂƌĞ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉŝŶŐ ŚŝŐŚ ůĞǀĞůƐ ŽĨ ƐĞůĨ esteem and a very worthwhile set of values.“ /^/ ϮϬϭϰ

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CHRISTMAS 2014

“Pupils are eager and interested ůĞĂƌŶĞƌƐ ǁŝƚŚ Ă ƉŽƐŝƚŝǀĞ ĂƚƚŝƚƵĚĞ ƚŽ ƚŚĞŝƌ ůĞƐƐŽŶƐ͘​͘​͘ƚŚĞ ƐĐŚŽŽů ĨŽƐƚĞƌƐ Ă ůŽǀĞ ŽĨ ůĞĂƌŶŝŶŐ ŝŶ ƚŚĞŝƌ children.“ /^/ ϮϬϭϰ PRIMARY TIMES

21/11/2014 15:50:52

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

909 2000. www.at-bristol.org.uk.

Drop in sessions throughout the day. Free with standard admission • Winter isn’t all about hibernation.

The At-Bristol team will show you ways to keep your green fingers busy during the colder months.

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 February, March and April 2015: deadline Mon 12 Jan. If your event is to raise funds for a school or charity, and is open to the public, please let us know.

E: mike.gartside@venue.co.uk.

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

DECEMBER UNTIL SUN 14 DEC PORTRAIT OF A LADY? No.1 Royal York Crescent, Bath, BA1 2LR. 01225 428126. www. no1royalyorkcrescent.org.uk.

10.30am-5.30pm (12pm opening on Mondays). £4 or free with standard admission ticket • Learn how women of the 18th century viewed themselves and how they were seen by society.

UNTIL SUN 14 DEC BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET Various locations throughout Bath. www.bathchristmasmarket. co.uk. 10am to 7pm (Mon-Wed), 10am to 8pm (Thu), 10am to 9pm (Fri and Sat) and 10am to 6pm (Sun), free • More than 150 traditional wooden chalets selling unique, handmade gifts, decorations and a smorgasbord of things to eat: everything you need for a wonderful Christmas.

UNTIL THU 18 DEC BEING CAROLINE–A SECOND SELF Herschel Museum of Astronomy, 19 New King Street, Bath, Avon, BA1 2BL. www.herschelmuseum. org.uk, 01225 446865 • An exhibition exploring the life of the remarkable 18th century scientist Caroline Herschel. Told by her father that she was too poor and unattractive to marry, Caroline became a world class astronomer. The first woman paid for her contribution to science, she was presented with the Gold Medal for Science by the King of Prussia on her 96th birthday. As fascinating and inspirational for children as it is for parents.

UNTIL SUN 21 DEC ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS AT WESTONBIRT Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury, PRIMARY TIMES

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UNTIL WED 18 FEB HORSE TRAIL AROUND BATH Museum of East Asian Art, 12 Bennett St, Bath, BA1 2QJ. 01225 464640. www.meaa.org.uk. Book at least five days in advance • According to the Chinese Zodiac, this is the Year of the Horse. Join this trail to find horses in art in six different collections around Bath, including the Roman Baths, Victoria Art Gallery and the Museum of East Asian Art.

Ice Rink, At-Bristol, until Tue 6 Jan

Gloucestershire, GL8 8QS. 01666 880220. www.forestry.gov.uk/ westonbirt. Every Fri, Sat and Sun 5pm-8.30pm, £10 (adults)/£8 (concs)/£5 (children) • A spectacular, mile-long illuminated trail through Westonbirt’s trees and winding paths. Also featuring stilt walkers, the Christmas Fairy, giant reindeer, Father Christmas, carol singing and festive refreshments.

UNTIL WED 24 DEC AMPHIBIANS Slimbridge Wetlands Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT, 01453 891223, www.wwt. org.uk. 2.15pm (also at 12.30pm Sat and Sun). Free with general admission • Visit Toad Hall, where amphibian expert Jay Redbond gives an insight into the world of these semi water-dwelling creatures and their habitats. Hold frogs, toads and newts from his collection.

UNTIL WED 24 DEC MEET SANTA! Avon Valley Railway, Bath Road, Bristol BS30 6HD. 0117 932 5538, www.avonvalleyrailway.org, various times, from £9 (adult) • Steam in to Christmas every weekend until Christmas Eve. Santa makes an extra special visit to the Avon Valley while children each receive a special toy and grown ups get a mince pie or festive biscuit.

The whole family can appreciate the beautiful views of the valley and the nostalgic smell of engine steam.

UNTIL WED 31 DEC GEORGIANS: 18TH CENTURY DRESS FOR POLITE SOCIETY Bath Fashion Museum, Bath Assembly Rooms, Bennett Street, Bath, BA1 2QH, 01225 477789, www.fashionmuseum.co.uk, £7.75 (adults)/£5.75 (child) • The museum’s special exhibition this year includes over 30 original 18th century costumes from its world-class

collection and Georgian-inspired outfits from top fashion designers.

UNTIL SUN 4 JAN BATH ON ICE The Royal Pavilion, Royal Avenue, Bath, BA1 2NR, 07943 323360, www.bathonice.com, 10am-9pm, from £7.25pp • Bath’s festive outdoor real ice rink is back, with a brand new pizza chalet and Ice Lounge bar and cafe. It is located in Royal Victoria Park in the centre of Bath. Sessions last for one-hour with skate hire included. Skate aids for children including bananas and penguins are available. Beautifully lit up after dark this city centre location is the ideal choice for a great festive activity. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

UNTIL TUE 6 JAN WINTER KITCHEN At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0117 909 2000. www.at-bristol.org.uk. Drop in sessions throughout the day. Free with standard admission • Join the team in At-Bristol’s festive kitchen as they unravel the chemistry of warming winter feasts – from sweet treats to savoury delights.

UNTIL TUE 6 JAN AT-BRISTOL’S ICE RINK At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0117 909 2000. www.at-bristol.org.uk. 10am-5pm. £8.50/£7.50/£6.50 • After the success of the Harbourside’s first ever ice rink last year, At-Bristol welcomes it back for 2014. Whether you fancy yourself as the next Torvil or Dean, or you just want to have a laugh with friends and family, give skating a whirl on real ice under the giant bauble that is the At-Bristol Planetarium.

UNTIL TUE 3 FEB WINTER IN THE GREENHOUSE At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB. 0117

UNTIL SAT 28 FEB DECOY DOG DEMONSTRATIONS Slimbridge Wetlands Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900. www.wwt. org.uk/slimbridge_centre. 2pm.

Standard admission applies • How do you catch a duck with a dog?

Watch Slimbridge’s own furry canine assisting with conservation work as birds are caught and ringed in the decoy nets. Book your place at the admission desk.

UNTIL SAT 28 FEB GRUFFALO CELEBRATIONS Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8QS. 01666 880220. www.forestry.gov.uk/ westonbirt. 9am-4.45pm, £5 (adults)/£2 (child) - activity pack for Gruffalo Trail £2 • The self-led trail encourages children to search for animal tracks, create Gruffalo and animal footprints, pretend to grow tall like trees, build animal homes and find materials that animals can use to keep warm in winter. AND . . .

UNTIL SAT 28 FEB GRUFFALO CELEBRATIONS Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire www.forestry.gov.uk, 9am-4.45pm, £5 (adult)/£2 (child) - activity pack for Gruffalo trail £2 • See above.

TUE 2 DEC-MON 5 JAN SANTA’S INVENTION WORKSHOP At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 9157 141. Drop in throughout the day, standard admission charge • Ever wondered what it would be like to work in Santa’s workshop? Unleash your inner Christmas elf at At-Bristol this festive season by creating handmade science-inspired presents or stocking fillers for your nearest and dearest. Ages 8+ THU 4-SUN 21 DEC CHRISTMAS AT THE SPIEGELTENT Waterfront Square, The Harbourside, off Canon’s Way, CHRISTMAS 2014

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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. For full terms and conditions go to tabletable.co.uk/termsandconditions *Terms and conditions apply. Ask a member of the team for full details. While stocks last.

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PRIMARY TIMES

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

Bristol, BS1 5LL. 0117 378 9663. www.christmasspiegeltent.co.uk.

Various times and prices, check website for more info • The luxurious Spiegeltent returns to Bristol for the third year running. A whole range of events includes live music, a roller disco, Christmas markets and the Love Food Festival on Sun 7 Dec.

ROUNDABOUT

Look out for a range of activities at the Speigeltent, Waterfront Square, Bristol, this Christmas., including Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall, Sat 6 Dec.

FRI 5 DEC CHIPPING SODBURY VICTORIAN DAY Chipping Sodbury High Street and surrounding areas. 1.30pm9.30pm. Free • Chipping Sodbury’s annual Victorian day with plenty to see and do for all ages. Attractions include school choirs, hog roast, charity stalls, fairground rides, mulled wine and mince pies, and an appearance from Santa from 3pm.

FRI 5-SAT 6 DEC, THU 11-SAT 13 DEC, WED 17-THU 18 DEC, SAT 20 DEC, MON 22 DEC AND WED 24 DEC SANTA’S GROTTO Puxton Park, Cowslip Lane, Hewish, 01934 523500, www. puxton.co.uk and Grand Pier, Marine Parade, Weston-superMare, 01934 620238, events@ grandpier.co.uk • At Puxton Santa arrives by tractor to open his grotto or you can follow the snowy footprints as you enter the Grand Pier, to guide you to the winter wonderland, with its moving penguins and polar bears.

You will be transported down an enchanted path to Santa’s very own grotto. Santa will also be visiting Weston’s Seaquarium between Sat 13-Wed 24 Dec. SAT 6 DEC CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA. www.bristolzoo. org.uk, 0117 974 7399. 10am-2pm. £30 • Embrace the Christmas spirit by foraging for natural materials in the picturesque woodland and create your own handmade wreath with award-winning conservation educator Steve England.

You can hang it on your front door or give it as a gift.

SAT 6 DEC MONSKI MOUSE’S BABY DISCO DANCE HALL Christmas at the Spiegeltent, Waterfront Square, Bristol Harbourside, BS1 5LL. 0117 3789 663, www.christmasspiegeltent. co.uk, 3pm, £6 plus booking fee • A groovy disco for the under 5s and their parents and carers with DJ Monski mixing up funky nursery rhymes with anything from swing, pop, Latin, rock and soul.

Experienced children’s performers are on hand to lead a fun warm-up and keep the party moving.

SAT 6, 13 & 20 DEC TWILIGHT AND ILLUMINATIONS TOUR Departs from Stop 1 on Broad Quay, Bristol City Centre, www.citysightseeingbristol.co.uk/publictrips/twilight-and-illuminationsPRIMARY TIMES

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tour.php, 4.30pm or 6pm, duration 75 minutes, £13 (adult)/£5 (child) • Explore illuminated classic architecture, watery harbour reflections and sparkly Christmas lights all under the warmth of a cosy blanket and free hot drink, mince pie and chocolate available.

SAT 6-SUN 7 DEC, SAT 13-SUN 14 & SAT 20-SUN 21 DEC. TEA WITH SANTA WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucester, GL2 7BT. 01453 891900. www.wwt.org.uk, 9.30am-5pm, £7.95 (adult)/£19.95 (child) • Visit Santa in his grotto, write and send a letter to the North Pole at the centre’s post office, decorate a yummy gingerbread man, toast marshmallows around the fire and enjoy Christmas storytelling.

Price includes afternoon tea, visit to the grotto with gift and the full day of other experiences brought to life

by Santa’s helpers and elves. Book in advance.

SAT 6–SUN 7, SAT 13-SUN 14 & SAT 20-SUN 21 DEC CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK National Trust, Dyrham Park, Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dyrham-park 10am-4pm, Normal admission applies • Explore the great outdoors, wrap up warm and take part in the deer trail in the historic park to find Rudolph and his friends. Get hands on with crafts near the house and don’t miss Father Christmas, who’s at Old Lodge to wish you a Merry Christmas.

SAT 6-SAT 20 DEC. VICTORIAN GROTTO AND MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS Trowbridge Town Hall, Trowbridge, Wiltshire. 01225 774306. www. trowbridgetownhall.org. 10.30am1pm and 1.30pm-5pm. £5 (adv)/£6 (door) • Visit a magical Victorian grotto then meet Trowbridge Town Hall’s special Father Christmas.

Price includes a traditional Christmas gift and a vintage style sepia photograph. There are Christmas craft activities in the Town Hall foyer while the grotto is open.

SAT 6-SUN 7, SAT 13-SUN 14, SAT 20, SUN 21, MON 22 & TUE 23 CANAL TRIP TO FIND SANTA Wiltshire and Berkshire Canal Trust, The Landing Stage, Kingshill, Swindon, SN1 4NQ, 01793 827678, www.wbct.org.uk/ boat-trips/santa-trips, 10am, 11am, 1pm and 2.30pm £6-£9. Book in advance • The trust has received a letter from Santa to let them know that he’s in Swindon in December.

Take a ride on the Dragonfly boat to find him. If you’re lucky he’ll climb aboard and deliver presents.

Mulled wine, mince pies soft drinks and sweets are also available.

SUN 7 DEC CHRISTMAS FAYRE The Museum of Bath at Work, Camden Works, Julian Road, Bath, BA1 2RH. www.bath-at-work.org. uk, 01225 318348, 10am-4pm, free • The perfect place to buy a diverse selection of Christmas gifts. Choose from an array of knitted goods, jewellery, toys, stationery and glassware, all handmade by the stallholders. There are hourly talks from the museum’s curator Stuart Burroughs, who discusses a range of historical topics.

SUN 7 DEC LOVE FOOD FESTIVAL Christmas at the Spiegeltent, The Waterfront Square, Bristol, www. lovefoodfestival.com, 10.30am4pm, free • Local producers display their wares, encouraging plenty of thoughtful gifts for your loved ones this Christmas. You could make your own hamper with jams, chutneys, local wines and ciders, cheese, chocolate and other delectable ideas. Mulled cider is on hand, plus a chance to order your Christmas meats.

SUN 7 DEC & SAT 13 DEC MADE IN BRISTOL GIFT FAIR Colston Hall, Colston Street, Bristol, BS1 5AR, 07957 608428, www.handmadeinbristol.co.uk, 10am–4pm, free • Features a handpicked collection of the best of Bristol design selected by Bryony Morgan, this fair is located over

four floors and features more than 100 designers. With stalls offering jewellery, toys, ceramics, art and home accessories it’s an ideal place to find innovative, locallymade products that bring the personal touch to a Christmas gift.

FRI 12 DEC CHRISTMAS FAYRE AT BRIDGE FARM PRIMARY Bridge Farm Primary School, East Dundry Rd, Whitchurch, Bristol BS14 0LL. 0117 903 0420. www. bridgefarm-pri.bristol.sch.uk.

5.30pm-7.30pm, 50p (adult)/free (children) • Visit Santa for some festive fun and enjoy a variety of stalls and refreshments.

FRI 12-SUN 14 DEC GLOUCESTER QUAYS FESTIVE FAYRE Gloucester Quays Designer Outlet Shopping Centre, St Ann Way, Gloucester, GL1 5SF. 01452 338933. www.gloucesterquays. co.uk, 10am-7pm/5pm (Sun) free • Purchase unique Yuletide gifts and tasty treats for your Christmas Dinner from the array of stalls. Enjoy seasonal entertainment from bands, street performers and choirs, meet reallife reindeer and see the beautiful trees as you soak up the festive atmosphere around the historic Docks.

SAT 13 DEC ELMHURST JUNIOR SCHOOL CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR Elmhurst Lane, Street, BA16 0HH, 01458 442979, www. elmhurstjuniorschool.org.uk/ESA, 2pm-4.30pm, free • Features craft stalls with homemade gifts and foods, large raffle and tombola stalls. There’s a visit from Santa in his Grotto. Then why not join the school choir with festive carols from 4pm?

SAT 13 DEC CLASSIC CHRISTMAS FILM SCREENINGS Colston Hall, Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5AR. www.colstonhall. org, 0844 887 1500, 6pm, £13.44£26.88 inc. booking fee • A special screening of Peter and the Wolf » CHRISTMAS 2014

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ROUNDABOUT »

and The Snowman with scores brought to life by The Welsh National Opera Orchestra, playing live. Sanjeev Bhaksar of ‘Goodness Gracious Me’ and ‘The Kumar’s at Number 42’ narrates both films.

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

Crazy Chemistry, BRLSI, Bath, Sat 10 Jan.

classic with a twist. Afterwards there’s a special winter wonderland workshop with a selection of activities including making your own snow globe, Christmas cards and snowflakes. Also Christmas party music and festive snacks.

Ages 6-11.

SAT 13 DEC WATER WORKS Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, 16-18 Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HN. 01225 312084, www.brlsi.org, 1-4pm, £6 • Join Hajira from Bristol Water to find out all about the dirty and the clean, from sludge to sparkle. Plus, find out how to help children who have to walk miles to find water just to stay alive.

SAT 13 DEC THE BOSSY KING CHRISTMAS NATIVITY PLAY Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Rd, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG. 01275 852606. www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk. 2.30pm, normal admission applies • Join Whitchurch Primary School for its production of ‘The Bossy King’. Featuring live animals and a real baby plus 90 children from Whitchurch Primary School.

SAT 13-SUN 14 DEC A PRINKNASH WINTER WONDERLAND The Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester, GL4 8EX, 3-6pm, £9.50 (adv).

01452 812 727, enquiries@thebirdpark.com, www.thebirdpark. com • With its own resident reindeer, Rudolf, Prancer and Comet, plus views of the park’s trees, lakes and birds lit “magically” for Christmas from its new visitor centre balcony, the park promises this will be a Winter Wonderland to remember.

SAT 13-SUN 14 DEC & SAT 20-SUN 21DEC CHRISTMAS MARKET Christmas at the Spiegeltent, Waterfront Square, Bristol Harbourside, BS1 5LL. 0117 3789 663, www.christmasspiegeltent. co.uk, 10am-4.30pm, free • Shop for hand-made, one off and vintage gifts, clothes, nik-naks, jewellery, furniture, edible treats and much more inside the magnificent tent. Hot food, drinks, teas and cakes are available and it’s free to get in.

SAT 13 & SUN 14 DEC AN ARTFUL CHRISTMAS The Victoria Art Gallery, Bridge Street, Bath, BA2 4AT, 01225 477233, www.victoriagal.org.uk, 2pm-3.30pm, admission charges apply • Get arty this Christmas and use simple techniques to craft things to make your festive season special.

SUN 14 DEC A GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS 1 Royal York Crescent, Bath BA1 2LR. 01225 428126. www.no1royalyorkcrescent.org.uk. 10.30am5.30pm. Free with standard admission • Wonderful Christmas floral displays illustrate how the Georgians celebrated Christmas.

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Each room is beautifully dressed, ready for the festive season.

SUN 14 DEC FELT FANCIES FOR THE TREE Bath Assembly Rooms, Bennett St, Bath, BA1 2QH, 01225 477789, www. museumofcostume.co.uk, 11am-3pm, Admission charges apply • Create felt tree decorations using thread, buttons, sequins and ribbon.

SUN 14 DEC INK BLOWING Prema Arts Centre, South Street, Uley, Nr Dursley, Gloucestershire GL11 5SS. 01453 860703. www. prema.org.uk. 2pm-4pm. £30 • Artist Dan Bennett shares tips and inspiration for some action painting for the whole family. Make your own big gestural drawings, explore markmaking and other techniques used in his exhibited work. Wear old clothes as it’s sure to get messy. Great for families with children aged 6+.

SUN 14 DEC SANTAS ON THE RUN Various locations around the South West. www.chsw.org.uk. Run starts at 1pm. Entry £10 adults/£5 children/£25 family • A 2k fun run around Bristol’s Harbourside to raise money for South West Children’s Hospice. Full of festive fun, why not visit Santa’s grotto, meet the reindeer and enjoy some carol singing. Entry price includes Santa suit, medal and festive treats.

SUN 14 DEC CHRISTMAS WITH THE SALVATION ARMY Colston Hall, Colston St, Bristol BS1 5AR. 0844 887 1500. www.colstonhall.org.uk. 3pm. Tickets £6.45 incl. booking fee • Join the Salvation Army for its 40th annual Christmas spectacular. Special guests join The Salvation Army’s own band and choir to present an afternoon of carols, readings and festive music, alongside a depiction of the Christmas story. All proceeds go to The Salvation Army’s social work in the city.

SUN 14 DEC CHRISTMAS AT THE AMERICAN MUSEUM Claverton Manor, Claverton, Bath, BA2 7BD. 01225 460503, www. americanmuseum.org, 1-4pm,

standard admission applies • A drop-in event for all ages celebrates the Christmas season. Meet Father Christmas, join in with the choir for Christmas carols and make your own bird with moving wings inspired by the museum’s folk art collection.

TUE 16 DEC BUMP ROLLER DISCO Christmas at the Spiegeltent, Waterfront Square, Bristol Harbourside, BS1 5LL. 0117 378 9663, www.christmasspiegeltent. co.uk, 5pm-7pm, £10-£15 plus booking fee • The Spiegeltent is transformed into a retro 80s roller rink complete with flashing lights, mirror ball and classic disco tunes.

Skate hire is included in the price but you’re welcome to bring your own! Diner style food is also available.

WED 17-WED 24 DEC A PRINKNASH WINTER WONDERLAND The Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester, GL4 8EX, 3-6pm, £9.50 (adv). 01452 812727, enquiries@thebirdpark.com, www. thebirdpark.com • See listing for Sat 13-Sun 14 Dec. SAT 20 DEC CHRISTMAS NATIVITY PLAY Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Clevedon Rd, Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG. 01275 852606. www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk. 1pm, normal admission applies • Celebrate the festive season this year with the popular Noah’s Ark nativity featuring live animals and a real baby. A unique re-telling of the beloved Christmas story through the eyes of the unsung heroes, the animals!

Bought to you by The Portishead Young Players (PYP), a youth theatre company attached to the main Portishead Players.

SAT 20 DEC A CHRISTMAS CAROL AND BUILD YOUR OWN SNOW DOME Watershed, 1 Canon’s Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5TX, 0117 927 5100, www.watershed. co.uk, 2.30pm, £2-£3.50 • Join Kermit, Gonzo, Miss Piggy and a host of Muppets in their fun musical version of this most popular Christmas story, Charles Dickens

TUE 23 DEC AND FRI 26 DECSAT 28 FEB WILD BIRD FEEDS Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Wildflower and Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt. org.uk, 4pm, Normal admission charges • See thousands of wild birds and enchanting Bewick’s swans feed by floodlight at Slimbridge Wetland Centre’s Swan Lake, and experience one of winter’s most breathtaking wildlife spectacles.

JANUARY SAT 10 JAN CRAZY CHEMISTRY Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, 16 Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HN, 01225 312084, www.brlsi.org, 1pm-4pm, £6 • Make PVA slime and find out about chromatography by indulging in a bit of food colouring. Do a spot of molecule isomerism and, if you don’t know what any of that is, go and find out! Ages 8+.

WED 14 JAN BRISTOL UNIVERSITY OPEN EVENING University of Bristol, Senate House, Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TH, 0117 928 9000, www. bristol.ac.uk/arts/foundation, 6pm-8.30pm • The Foundation Year in Arts and Humanities offers a route to a degree for local people who have not followed the traditional path through education. Foundation year students are of all ages, united by their obvious potential to achieve and flourish, they are guided through the arts and humanities, studying subjects as varied as the songs of Bob Dylan, public art and the abolition of slavery.

SAT 24 JAN MORPH AND MODEL MAKING WORKSHOP Watershed,1Canon’s Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5TX, 0117 927 5100, www.watershed. co.uk, ages 6-11, 2.30pm, £2.50£3.50 • The iconic animated clay character Morph made his TV debut in 1977 and entertained an entire generation with his slapstick antics. Almost 40 years on, Morph and his mischievous pal Chas are back with 15 brand new adventures which premiered on Morph’s YouTube channel in 2014.

Join the Watershed for this unique event which includes a screening of some classic Morph moments both old and new, followed by a model-making workshop where kids can learn how to make their » PRIMARY TIMES

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Open 10.00am5.00pm (8.00pm Fridays) 29th Nov24th Dec (24th 10.00am-4.00pm) Open for displays only 27th December 4th January 10.00am - 4.00pm

Tel: 01594 832535

www.clearwellcaves.com

Clearwell Caves Christmas Fantasy

The Tuppence family have found their perfect Christmas Tree in the forest. They struggle to bring it home until Tilly Tuppence has a brilliant idea…

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

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

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Contact us T: 0117 986 4929

�arm Mu� o� �ot Chocolate Mulled �ine & Mince Pies ��xtra Char�e� FR�� �rotto Bad�e

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Looking for a ‘good’ local school?

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

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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 PRIMARY TIMES

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ROUNDABOUT

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

MARCH SAT 14 MAR BRAINWAVE WITH DR SARAH Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, 16 Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HN, 01225 312084, www. brlsi.org, 1pm-4pm, £6 • As part of brain awareness week, this workshop looks at how the brain works in four fun sessions. Students from the University of Bath Pharmacology and Pharmacy Departments will be helping Dr Sarah. Ages 8 +.

Artist Fujiko Nakaya shrouds Pero’s Bridge, Bristol, in fog, Fri 13 Feb-Sun 23 Feb

»

very own Morph model with help from an expert model maker from the Aardman studios.

FEBRUARY THU 5 FEB BLOOMSBURY HARRY POTTER BOOK NIGHT www.harrypotterbooknight.com • Available free to download from the website, Bloomsbury offers hosts of the booknight everything they need to plan a magical and unforgettable evening from invitations and posters to dress up ideas. Register now for your kit and to receive key updates for the run up to the big night.

SAT 7 FEB AVON WILDLIFE TRUST Portbury Wharf, Portbury, BS20 7TD. 0117 917 7270, www. avonwildlifetrust.org.uk. 4pm5.30pm. £10 (adult)/£14 (adult and child) £20 (family up to two adults and three children) • Portbury Wharf is perfect for watching colourful winter ducks, little owls and barn owls. Expect to see winter ducks such as mallards, gadwall and shovelers before they fly east in the spring.

Some birds, such as the robin, may even be singing. As the sun begins to go down, ghostly barn owls begin “quartering” the fields and the silhouettes of dinky little owls start “yapping” from nearby trees.

FRI 13 FEB-SUN 23 FEB PERO’S BRIDGE FOG Pero’s Bridge, Narrow Quay/ Canon’s Wharf, Harbourside, Bristol, www.ibt15.co.uk, regularly throughout the day, free • To celebrate Bristol’s status as European Green Capital, arts group In Between Time has invited Japanese artist Fujiko Nakaya, who “conjures up” of unusual weather, to shroud Pero’s Bridge behind a changing veil of fog.

SAT 14 FEB BE A ZOOLOGIST Bath Royal Literary and 18

CHRISTMAS 2014

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Scientific Institution, 16 Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HN, 01225 312084, www.brlsi.org, 1pm4pm, £6 • Use the tools of the trade to find out more about what a zoologist does and you could be a zoologist too. Ages 8+.

SAT 14 FEB HAVE A HEART Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, 16 Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HN, 01225 312084, www.brlsi.org, 1pm4pm, £6 • As it’s Valentine’s Day this is a good opportunity to find out all about the heart and what it really does. Ages 8+.

SAT 14 FEB AND SAT 28 FEB ARNOLFINI STRANGE WEATHER WORKSHOP 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol BS1 4QA, 0117 917 2300, www.arnolfini. org.uk, 1pm (Sat 14), 1.45pm (Sat 28), free • Create the sounds of a storm, become a weather forecaster, listen to tempestuous tales and build shelters to protect you from the elements.

WED 25 AND SAT 28 FEB LACOCK ABBEY GARDENS – NGS WILTSHIRE Lacock, Chippenham, SN15 2LG, 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock. 10.30am4pm, £5.50 (adult)/£2.75 (child) • Woodland garden with carpets of aconites, snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils. Botanic garden with greenhouse, mediaeval cloisters and magnificent trees.

THU 26 FEB THE BIGGEST BOOK SHOW ON EARTH Bath Pavilion, North Parade Rd, Bath, BA2 4EU, 01225 314676, www.worldbookday.com. 10am11.30am, £3(child)/teachers free • Children’s authors visit Bath as part of a nationwide tour celebrating World Book Day on Thu 5 Mar. Authors Martin Brown, Sophy Henn, Gill Lewis, Jeremy Strong and Jonathan Stroud give readings and meet their fans.

As part of the initiative, some authors are selling their books at just £1.

SAT 14 MAR THE SCIENCE OF EXPLORATION WITH THE LATE CAPTAIN SPEKE Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, 16 Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HN, 01225 312084, www.brlsi. org, 1pm-4pm, £6 • This workshop reveals the things explorers need to know if they are to be successful scientists. There is no point in exploring unless you can discover new things and accurately record all you find.

ONGOING EVENTS HORSE TRAIL AROUND BATH Museum of East Asian Art, 12 Bennett Street, Bath, Somerset BA1 2QJ. www.meaa.org.uk, 01225 464640 • According to the Chinese zodiac, it is the year of the horse until February 2015. To celebrate, the Museum of East Asian Art has organised a horse themed art trail around the city running through six museums; the Roman Baths; Victoria Art Gallery; Holburne; BRLSI; The American Museum and the Museum of East Asian Art. Advanced booking required 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 more about the science behind smell and recreate bakery aromas, then find out just what happens to food once it’s been swallowed - all with plenty of audience participation, of course.

Regular shows at weekends and daily during school holidays.

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 with gossip, clinking cutlery and even a spot of gambling; inspired by true stories taken from passengers’ accounts.

THEATRE TOURS Bristol Hippodrome, St. Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www.atgtickets.com/bristol, every Saturday, 10.30am, £16.40 • Go behind the scenes of Bristol’s West End for two hours of fun and adventure - from front of house history to the stars and gossip backstage. An exciting insight into how this historic Bristol theatrical institution runs.

PRIOR PARK LANDSCAPE GARDEN Ralph Allen Drive, Bath, BA2 5AH. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/priorpark, 01225 833422, cost of general admission • Prior Park Landscape Garden offers arguably the most picturesque views in Bath. Parents can enjoy the gorgeous surroundings while kids can get stuck into the National Trust’s current ‘50 Things To Do Before You’re Eleven And Three Quarters’ initiative.

BIRTHDAY PARTIES AT AVON VALLEY RAILWAY Bath Road, Bristol, South Gloucestershire BS30 6HD. 0117 932 5538, www.avonvalleyrailway. org, 11am or 2:45pm, from £5.50 per child • Avon Valley railway offers the chance for children to have their birthday party on a real 1950s steam engine. There is an option to have a catered party, or you can provide your own food.

FOOD! At-Bristol, Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 909 2000, www.at-bristol.org.uk, normal admissio applies • Get your taste buds ready! The new major exhibition by Bristol’s hands-on science centre demonstrates how to popcorn using nothing but light energy, grind your own grain, create sugar explosions, and converse with a robot waiter. Lose yourself in this sensory arcade, explore the experimental kitchen and interactive greenhouse, and journey on some surprising foodie adventures.

PLANETARIUM SHOWS At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0117 909 2000, daily shows, £1.50 in addition to standard admission • Travel into Space, learn about myths and legends behind constellations, and discover what you can see from your own garden.

LISTINGS BY JAYNE RANDALL

PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2014 11:50:57

Santa’s coming to Slimbridge...

Join the elves for breakfast or afternoon tea, visit Santa in his magical grotto, ice gingerbread men, toast marshmallows, relax with Christmas storytelling – and don’t forget to send a letter to the North Pole at our post office.

It’s a full day of festive fun for the whole family.

The whole experience is £7.95 for adults and £19.95 for children (includes admission, meal and special gift for child).

Available weekends 6/7, 13/14 and 20/21 December.

Book your tickets online at wwt.org.uk/SlimbridgeSanta Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT t 01453 891900 e info.slimbridge@wwt.org.uk

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Cathedral Primary School A new school in the heart of Bristol

Since it opened in September 2013, Cathedral Primary School has already become one of Bristol’s most popular schools. Our vision is to provide an outstanding education, with a special emphasis on music.

Together with Bristol Cathedral Choir School, Bristol’s oldest and most-oversubscribed secondary school, Cathedral Primary School forms a new family of state-funded schools.

Interested in a Reception place for September 2015?

Tours take place most Tuesdays in term-time up to and including Tuesday 13th January 2015; other days may be available. Please phone to arrange a visit.

Tel: 0117 353 2052 Applications now open online Deadline 15th January 2015

Places at Cathedral Primary School are open to children living in the following postcodes: BS1 to BS25, BS29 to BS37, and BS40 to BS49.

Please visit: www.cathedralprimaryschool.org 20

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PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2014 11:02:13

Modern Manners

By Anne Marie Scanlon

These days the idea of etiquette, or any sort of guide to good manners, seems as outdated as vinyl records.

While niche manners have enjoyed a semi-renaissance with guides to ‘Jetiquette’ (how to behave on planes), Datiquette (how to behave on dates) and Celliquette (how to behave whilst on a mobile phone) the notion of plain old etiquette is never mentioned.

Many parents spend a fortune on getting their children the ‘best’.

We all want to give our kids the soundest start in life and to have as many options and choices as they can when they reach adulthood.

Plenty of parents spend their weekends and afternoons ferrying offspring to football, ballet, music, drama, dance, Mandarin Chinese, and swimming. Then there’s the hours spent helping them do homework, making sure they eat their five a day (or trying to), taking them on educational days out and drilling into them the importance of brushing their teeth.

Obviously all of these things are important but sometimes basic manners are forgotten about. A kid with no manners grows into a rude adult and no matter how many qualifications they get, the person who knows how to smile, make eye contact and shake hands will always have the upper hand in both the job market and life. As the old cliché says manners cost nothing. It is so very very easy to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’. It doesn’t take up much PRIMARY TIMES

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time, use up any energy or empty your wallet and it makes life so much more pleasant for everybody.

Like most mothers I am always delighted to hear people telling me that my seven year old son is good looking. (Every mother thinks her child/children are the most gorgeous ever born but we do like to have it confirmed by an independent adjudicator from time to time.) However much as I like hearing my child’s face praised I can’t really take any credit for his appearance. Yes, I know I contributed half of his DNA but genetics are so completely random that none of us really has any power over the way our offspring will look.

However we do have power over how they behave both now and in the future. The thing I like hearing the most from random strangers is that my child has nice manners because I know that I am responsible for that. Like charity, manners begin at home. Apart from reminding children to use ‘please’ ‘thank you’ and ‘you’re welcome’ as often as possible, parents are doing both themselves, their children, their children’s teachers and society in general a big favour by teaching their children to acknowledge others by simply saying ‘hello’.

You would be amazed at the number of children I encounter who are completely fazed by adults greeting them. And please don’t get me started on basic table

manners. There is good reason why we don’t talk with our mouth full or chew with our mouth open. It’s disgusting, that’s why. I once left a swanky drinks reception, at an Embassy no less, with small pieces of masticated sausage splattered in my hair because a grown man had obviously never been told not to speak with a mouth full of food.

Drilling our children to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ and ‘hello’ isn’t enough. As parents we are all great at instructing our children to behave in certain ways whilst cheerfully doing the opposite.

We’re always at the small people in our homes about how important it is to always tell the truth whilst they see us blatantly lying to other people – the cheque is in the post, I didn’t get the message, you look fantastic in that dress.

So when you are in the company of your children remember to hold open the door for other people and to thank those who open the door for you. Put your cell phone away at mealtimes (the only excuse for having a cell phone on the table during a meal is an expected birth or death). If you do have to take an urgent call, get up and move away from the table. We all know that no matter how much we preach to our children that they are more likely to do what we do and not what we say.

And with that, let me just say, thank you for reading this article.

CHRISTMAS 2014

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A Prinknash Wonderland

rinknash Bird & Deer Park was nominated in the ‘Top Ten Rural Attractions to Visit’ by the Sunday Telegraph in 2011 and since then has moved on in leaps and bounds. It recently opened a stunning new Visitor Centre, whose balconies overlook the park, offering extraordinary views of Prinknash’s illuminations, as well as the Reindeer Enclosure where you can see Rudolph, Prancer and Comet.

Those who want a closer view of the famous trio can visit the park’s dedicated viewing area to watch them at feeding time.

The Bird Park also welcomes Santa, who can be found holding court in his remarkable, hand-crafted ash sleigh, with his very own Rudolph, created from horseshoes by sculptor Tom Hill. It’s quite a show as each gift is presented,

unwrapped to make sure it’s perfect for your child. A photographer is there to capture your special moment and you have the chance to buy a memento of the occasion.

Meanwhile, the Prinknash Christmas Fairy can be found inside the Gypsy Caravan, delighting children as they hand her their gift request before meeting Santa, or perhaps making a card in the craft tent ready to hand to him. As always the face painter is on hand to complete the finishing touches. So, for those of you who really want a different Christmas, make The Bird Park your very own Winter Wonderland.

Tickets are available on www.thebirdpark.com or, for more information, please call us on 01452 812727.

The Bird & Deer Park Gloucestershire GL4 8EX T: +44 (0) 1452 812 727 www.thebirdpark.com

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi Skate expectations

Cowtastic Christmas Fun

Bath on Ice, Bath’s festive outdoor real ice rink, is back by popular demand with a brand new pizza chalet and Ice Lounge bar and cafe.

Located in Royal Victoria Park in the centre of the city, the rink is beautifully lit up after dark and provides the ideal setting for a great festive activity.

It is open from 10am until 9pm daily (except Christmas Day) until Sun 4 Jan. Sessions last for one-hour with skate hire included, while skate aids including bananas and penguins are available for children.

Prices start from £7.25 per person.

Bath on Ice also welcomes group bookings including school groups from only £5 per child, birthday and Christmas parties where catering can be provided.

Group discounts are available.

Children under the age of twelve must be accompanied by an adult.

Yule find everything you need for an udderly fabulous Christmas at Farrington’s Farm in Farrington Gurney just outside Bristol! With gifts galore starting from just £1, and even more to discover in the Shopping Village, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Enjoy a festive feast in the café and a Cowtastic Christmas meeting with Father Christmas in the Playbarn Winter Wonderland.

Get along to the Playbarn throughout December for festive fun and games, Christmas Tree decorating competitions and visit Father Christmas in the magical grotto, every weekend until Wed 24 Dec. For full dates and times, visit the website and facebook page.

Ffi and to book W: www.bathonice.com

Ffi: www.farringtons.co.uk

Ffi: NSPCC Letter from Santa T: 0845 839 9304 W: www.nspcc.org.uk/santa

PRIMARY TIMES

14 Avon Pinboard Xmas 2014.indd 23

news, education & contacts

A Wyevale experience Visit your nearest Wyevale Garden Centre this Christmas to experience a friendly atmosphere, and to fill your baskets with a collection of seasonal gifts and plants, perfect for the whole family. While you’re there, relish in the magic of the season with a series of themed events, such as grottos with 3D festive films, elf workshops, and enchanting stories that will transport your child into a magical wonderland this Christmas (varies by centre).

Plus, you can take the weight off your feet in the restaurant, which offers ethically sourced coffee, for a burst of energy for the remainder of your shopping trip.

This winter, Wyevale Garden Centres around the country will be transformed into the ultimate festive destination. You’ll discover all you need to create that perfect ‘merry’ feeling, from exclusive Christmas trees and lights, to unique decorations. Choose from an exciting selection of replica trees and sparkling lights, including the latest LED technology Ffi: www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk

From Santa with love Children’s charity the NSPCC is teaming up with Santa to send children a personalised Letter from Santa, sent “direct from the North Pole”.

The beautifully-illustrated letters include the child’s name, age, gender, and other details which only Santa could know. Christmas is an exciting time of year but for some children it can be difficult and lonely. By requesting a Letter from Santa for a suggested £5, the NSPCC can be there for vulnerable children, giving them someone to turn to when they need support.

Every £5 raised could help ChildLine be there when a child seeks help either online or by phone. Every £12 raised helps ChildLine Schools Service volunteers talk to one primary school child about abuse, giving them the confidence to talk. And every £50 raised helps deliver two hours of telephone support to anyone with concerns about a child. Santa’s mailroom is open until Mon 15 Dec.

Parents’ & teachers’

Piano for pupils and parents Patrick Hammerman specialises in teaching children and adults, offering after school, daytime and late evening lessons. Pat has worked as a music teacher for 20 years, having studied classical music and jazz music at Middlesex University before completing Teacher Training at UWE. Pat’s lessons offer tuition in reading music, composing, songwriting, improvising, Blues and Boogie. His Qualified Teacher training status means his lessons can also support GCSE and A level music studies.

Tuition is varied, stimulating and tailored to your requirements. You can study as a hobby or pursue ABRSM grade exams in classical, jazz or theory.

Whatever your age or interests, the emphasis is on mastering piano skills for fun, personal development and self expression. Contact Pat to book a free introductory lesson.

Ffi: Pat Hammerman T: 0117 904 8648

It’s all at St Nick’s

Bristol already has its own Christmas wonderland in the form of the traditional St Nicholas Market in the historic centre of the city. The market opens on Sundays from 10am–4pm during December, in the run up to Christmas. Visitors can sample the quirky delights of Bristol’s best loved independent market and perhaps find that special gift which one would never see on the high street.

There will also be a special Christmas Eve market outside, on The Nails, Bristol, on Wed 24 Dec, 9.30am2.30pm for last minute shoppers. The indoor market also stays open until 5pm that day. Get all the latest news on events and activities at St Nick’s via the market’s Facebook page.

Ffi: St Nicholas Market Fb: www. facebook.com/stnicholasmarket

CHRISTMAS 2014 23

25/11/2014 11:44:15

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School holiday offers at TeamSport Bristol!

Go Karting 8+ £10 GE A

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*To receive this offer you must quote Primary Times when booking and take this voucher with you to the track when racing. This offer can not be used in conjunction with other offers. All karting sessions must be pre-booked. Offers available every weekday during the School holidays. Offers not available at weekends. 1 voucher per booking. Please call for availability. Offer expires 30th April 2015.

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p24.indd 2

02/10/2014TIMES 17:02 PRIMARY

21/11/2014 15:55:04

ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi Dedicated and inspired

The Fairfield way

Colston’s School, Bristol, aims to inspire all children to achieve their best. Small classes and dedicated staff ensure that work is carefully planned to meet the needs of each child. It offers a bright and engaging curriculum which ensures strong foundations in the core subjects, as well as opportunities for exploration in science, humanities, art and music. The children look forward with great excitement to their weekly Forest School visits.

As well as a plethora of extracurricular activities, the school offers an excellent wrap-around care programme where parents can drop off pupils from 7.45am and collect until 5.30pm.

For Year 3 entry, children take a numeracy paper and write a story. In Years 4 to 6, the entrance examination involves tests in numeracy, English comprehension and writing. The format is informal to ensure that there are no nerves and the children are able to perform at their best.

Before school, lunchtimes, after school, weekends, holidays – Fairfield High School (FHS) in Horfield, Bristol, is as busy outside its timetabled hours as it is during them.

Students have a huge range of opportunities to supplement their learning. Head teacher Catriona Mangham says the school’s extra-curricular activities help build confidence and character, giving students new experiences.

For example, last year the Fairfield Young Enterprise team, made up of students from Africa, Europe and the Caribbean, won local and regional awards after creating and marketing a spicy sauce.

The multicultural school hosts additional languages groups and science, computing, chess, cookery, debate, musical fusion (choir) and electronic textiles are just some of the other clubs. Sports include athletics, rugby, netball and football.

Whether writing to MPs or warning young pupils about cyberbullying, students are encouraged to play an active role in the community.

Ffi: Colston’s School W: www.colstons.bristol.sch.uk

GO Sports GO Sports runs a Sunday morning multi-sports school for children in Bristol. Sessions are: Mini Sports 3 to 5 year olds, 9.30am–11.00am Junior Sports 5 to 16 year olds, 9.30am – 12.30pm.

GO Sports is designed equally for both boys and girls who haven’t yet discovered their sporting talents, as well as for those with ambitions to improve their skills. It aims to help youngsters find confidence through exposure to many different sporting activities.

With three 12 week terms per year GO Sports offers a variety of fun games and activities. Team favourites such as football, basketball and netball, plus more unusual team sports such as street hockey, handball and lacrosse are taught.

Individual sports include athletics, fencing, archery and martial arts.

Additionally, GO Sports incorporates motivational challenges with team-based fun games such as Dodgeball and Capture the Flag.

Ffi: GO Sports T: Peter Hancock 0117 907 0401 E: gosports@hotmail.co.uk W: www.go-sports.co.uk

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

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

Ceremony at Redland High A royal representative, Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant, Mary Prior MBE, JP, has officially opened the new Early Years building at Redland High Infants with QEH. Staff and governors from both Redland High and QEH attended the opening ceremony in November to see the ribbon cut and a plaque unveiled.

Redland High Infant School originally accepted boys up until 1956 and a number of former pupils attended the ceremony, including one of the school’s old boys.

The building, designed and constructed by Rollalong Design, is an environmentally sympathetic extension to Redland High Junior School’s existing building and enables the school to offer an extra 24 places for boys and girls at Early Years Foundation Stage, with a natural progression to QEH in Year 3.

Caroline Bateson, headmistress, says “We are extremely excited that the new Early Years building is now open to our pupils. This new building enhances our learning facilities for our very youngest pupils.”

Ffi: Redland High School W: www.redlandhigh.com

Dream of being your own boss?

If you dream of a career which fits around your family then Monkey Music could be the answer. This franchise business model has been established across the UK for over 20 years. It is for highly motivated, creative and businessminded people who share a passion for music and young children.

As one of the first pre-school businesses to franchise in the UK, Monkey Music has been instrumental in developing the pre-school activity market. It is proud of its trusted, recognisable national brand and of its relationship with the British Franchise Association, winning its prestigious annual franchising awards.

The creative business strategy provides a financially rewarding career opportunity for people with a strong work ethos, looking for a flexible full time working opportunity. “I now have a rewarding career and I’m around for my children at precious times,” says one Monkey Music Franchisee.

Ffi Monkey Music, Bath and Bristol, T: 01582 766464 W: www.monkeymusicfranchise.co.uk E: jointheteam@monkeymusic.co.uk

A balanced life Seven years ago, Niki Matyjasik decided to work alongside a “fantastic” health and wellness product range and business with Forever Living.

Having used and achieved great benefits from the aloe-vera based products for a number of years, she decided to take the step of setting up her own retail business.

As a working mother, Niki had to balance the needs of her family with the development of the business, which fitted in alongside another job.

She has no regrets and has found that being passionate, persistent and adaptable have been her three qualities for success. Using the strategy “little and often” she has seen her business grow. Though she says it’s an ongoing challenge, she really enjoys the flexibility that this opportunity brings and is now looking for a number of people to help her both retail the products and build a team.

If this appeals to you, why not get in touch?

Ffi: Forever Living M: 07720 887080 E: niki@matyjasik.co.uk

CHRISTMAS 2014 25

25/11/2014 11:47:54

Adver tising Feature

The Perfect Christmas Tree Clearwell Caves – Christmas Fantasy 2014 • Father Christmas can be found in a real underground Christmas Grotto at Clearwell Caves, Gloucestershire, this season, amid fantastic colourful displays.

Forget Lapland, this event is spectacular and really popular with children and adults alike. The wonderful seasonal scenes tell the story of ‘The Perfect Christmas Tree’, where the Tuppence family search for their perfect tree and find ingenious ways to bring it home. Things do not go well, until their young daughter, Tilly Tuppence, has a bright idea.

See Father Christmas, then walk through the amazing displays, which are like walking through a life-size pop up book. Half way through the caves, an underground Christmas Market sells gifts, decorations and stocking fillers and there’s an underground café for those in need of refreshment. On Sun 30 Nov and Sat 13 Dec, the Forest of Dean Brass Band plays seasonal music underground from 2-4pm.

The Christmas Fantasy runs from Sat 29 Nov to Wed 24 Dec 2014.

After Christmas, displays re-open Sat 27 Dec to Sun 4 Jan. Open 10am to 4 pm daily. Ample free car and coach parking.

Entry is £9 for adults or children, including a quality gift for children aged between 2 and 14. There is a magical late evening every Friday until 8pm.

Ffi: Clearwell Caves W: www.clearwellcaves.com

Adver tising Feature

6tH & 7tH 13tH & 14tH

Food&drink Arts&CrAFts GiFts&toys 10Am  5.30pm Free pArkinG HiGH QuAlity, FresH Cut, loCAl CHristmAs trees tAurus CrAFts, lydney, Glos, Gl15 6bu www.tAurusCr AFts.Co.uk  01594 844841 Find us on tHe A48 west oF lydney 26 CHRISTMAS 2014

14 Avon advertising features Xmas 2014.indd 26

Local kids in South West showcase • Twenty-two students from Stagecoach theatre schools in Bristol wowed audiences in a showcase of regional talent held in Torquay this October. Ranging in age from 7 to 15, the children attended additional rehearsals to perfect their showcase piece, ‘Another Opening of a Midsummer Night’s Love Song’. This montage of song and dance told the story of Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ in a physical theatre style.

On Sun 26 Oct, they joined other children from across the South West at the Princess Theatre in Torquay to celebrate the talent of children in this region.

Heidi Hollis, principal of Stagecoach in Portishead and Long Ashton, says, ‘The children worked so hard and the coaches all put in 110% to get their performance as perfect as possible. It was a night we’ll all remember for a long time and I’m so proud of them for owning such a large stage and showing what they can do!” She says they will definitely take part in similar events in future.

Bristol South West Stagecoach School is part of a network of more than 600 part-time theatre arts schools worldwide. Early stage classes are available for children aged 4 to 6, while main school classes take place for 6 to 18 year olds.

Ffi: Stagecoach Bristol South West T: 0117 953 2500 W: www.stagecoach.co.uk/bristolsouthwest Fb: www.facebook. com/stagecoachtheatrearts Tw: @stagecoach_gbr

PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2014 11:53:11

Adver tising Feature

Red Maids’ Juniors are growing • Great news! The Red Maids’ Junior School in Westbury-onTrym, Bristol, is expanding from September 2015. The school, which has been named a Top 100 Prep School for the past two years in The Sunday Times’ annual Parent Power report, is a day school for girls aged 7 to 11.

Originally opened in 1986, the school provided one class each in Years 4, 5 and 6. Two years later it expanded to provide an additional entry point into Year 3.

As demand for places continued to rise, a purpose-built extension was opened in 2008 alongside the original house, enabling the creation of an additional class each in Years 5 and 6.

The latest plans for growth come in response to further high levels of demand for places and will result in an increase to two classes each in Years 3 and 4.

Headteacher of the Junior School, Mrs Gillian Rowcliffe, says, “The Red Maids’ Junior School is a very exciting, stimulating place to learn and I am delighted to be able to share our success with even more girls and their families.

“We have already begun to assess pupils for these new places and suggest that parents register their interest as early as possible to avoid disappointment.”

Mrs Rowcliffe is to retire at the end of the Autumn Term. Her replacement, Mrs Lisa Brown, is a current teacher at the school and takes over from the start of Spring Term, 2015.

Ffi: The Red Maids’ School W: www.redmaids.bristol.sch.uk

Adver tising Feature

Give it some welly!

• The Green Den makes and sells innovative, quality natural outdoor play essentials.

All its playground equipment is designed in conjunction with play work practitioners who know how children play and exactly what works in school and early year settings.

Play is a fundamental part of childhood. It teaches us how the world works and where our place is in the world. “Mother Nature” provides unlimited play possibilities and we are all inspired by our own childhoods and our favourite play memories.

One of the Green Den team’s favourite products, the Ultimate Welly Store, holds up to 120 pairs of welly boots on sturdy vented shelves. Each child knows where to find their own wellies and, more importantly, where to find their shoes, saving time spent searching through piles of shoes at the end of an activity. Both shoes and wellies are stored in lockable dry conditions, because if you need your wellies you also need your shoes to be dry when you come back to them. The sheds are double-sided making them very efficient on space and the doors each have large blackboards for messages or play.

The Green Den has an experienced team who are happy to help with any questions from product information to design advice. If you have an item in mind that you cannot see on the website don’t hesitate to call: they can make bespoke items to order.

Ffi: The Green Den 10–11 The Picton Street Centre, Montpelier, Bristol, BS6 5QA T: 0117 924 4644 W: www.thegreenden.co.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

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CHRISTMAS 2014

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26/11/2014 12:57:03

Adver tising Feature

At-Winter Pic: Joe Meredith

• This winter At-Bristol has lots of exciting events in store to entertain, excite and educate the whole family. So as to not limit all the fun to indoors, At-Bristol is once again home to the outdoor ice rink that hosts events including Frozen “skate-along” sessions, disco evenings and special ‘Little Boots’ morning sessions for under-8s and their grown-ups. Millennium Square also holds an amazing Christmas market with a mix of food, gifts, crafts and all manner of lovely things.

Step into the warmth of At-Bristol to find all of the amazing existing exhibits alongside many special winter-themed activities, such as ‘Winter in the Kitchen’ where you can learn about the science behind the sweet treats and savoury delights that we all enjoy over the festive season. In the ‘Greenhouse’ horticulturalists will be busting the myth that gardening is a ‘summer thing’ and proving that just because certain members of the animal kingdom go into hibernation, you don’t have to! If you fancy trying your hand at being a Christmas elf, visit ‘Santa’s Invention Workshop’ where you can make your loved ones some science-themed presents and stocking fillers.

Between December and March, the giant silver dome that is the At-Bristol Planetarium screens a winter night sky show, which tells the terrific tale of the mighty Orion and noble bull Taurus, as well as looking at other cosmic curiosities. The Planetarium will also host the Little Stars show, a toddler-friendly interactive and intergalactic adventure. Additional costs apply for Planetarium shows: check timings and availability prior to visit.

Ffi: At-Bristol T: 0845 345 1235 W: www.at-bristol.org.uk

Adver tising Feature

All things photographic • London Camera Exchange (LCE) has been at its store in The Horsefair, Bristol, by Debenhams since 1992, selling new and used equipment and specialising in part exchange. Its range includes stargazing telescopes, binoculars, compact cameras, SLR cameras, lenses, flashguns, accessories, bags and rucksacks.

Also on offer are a range of photographic services such as its portrait studio and training room. Portrait shoots start from £14.99 including a complimentary 10” x 8” print and image on CD. An hour studio session consisting of a half hour shoot and half hour to select 20 images for editing and burning to CD is only £59.99 including a 12” x 16” print.

Or perhaps you would like to get the best out of your SLR camera? LCE’s half day introduction to DSLR photography course is structured to help you become more confidant with the use of your camera and to start using the manual settings.

After time in the training room, you carry out a location shoot, get feedback and have a chance to ask any questions. Groups are kept small so that you may get the most out of the lesson. If four hours is too long for you, LCE offers one hour training courses that can be tailored to your needs for only £14.99.

Or, why not buy your loved one a gift voucher? Camera manufacturers including Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus, Pentax, Fuji, Panasonic and Tamron offer fantastic discounts this Christmas – give LCE a call for more details.

Ffi: London Camera Exchange Horsefair (by Debenhams), Bristol T: 0117 927 6185

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PRIMARY TIMES

26/11/2014 12:23:48

Adver tising Feature

Dodd joins BSPA • Bristol School of Performing Arts has welcomed veteran Liverpudlian comedian Ken Dodd onto its growing list of patrons.

BSPA’s artistic director John Redgrave, met with Dodd during the comedian’s recent visit to Weston’s Playhouse and he now joins actress Vanessa Redgrave (John’s cousin), theatre director/impresario Bill Kenwright, (responsible for touring productions including ‘Blood Brothers’, ‘Joseph’ and ‘Whistle Down the Wind’, and Kevin Wood, leading pantomime impresario (including The Bristol Hippodrome pantos).

This professional theme extends throughout the school with almost all its teaching faculty actively engaged in professional activity, including technical management.

The vocal training is “second to none” in the capable hands of Amanda Salmon, a West End musical star for over 10 years, including two years playing Eponine in ‘Les Miserables’.

Choreographer Elysia Lawrence Tebb, who choreographs professionally on a regular basis, including the current professional tour of ‘Annie’, choreographs all BSPA’s in-house productions.

This pedigree extends to all other members of the teaching staff, including those tutoring LAMDA Drama and Musical Theatre.

John Redgrave has directed productions in both the West End and provinces for over 40 years.In addition to the school’s regular appearances with professional productions in the region’s major theatres, BSPA also stages many in-house productions in its own Hart theatre.

So why not check out perhaps the West Country’s leading musical theatre school by contacting them for a free trial session?

Ffi: Bristol School of Performing Arts T: 0771 4495373 W: www.bspa.biz E: info@bspa.biz

Adver tising Feature

• Parish Wharf Leisure Centre in Portishead and Strode Leisure Centre, Clevedon, are managed by Places for People Leisure, a social enterprise that manages over 118 leisure facilities nationwide and is accredited by UK Active as Leisure Operator of the Year 2014. Both centres welcome all members of the community, no matter what their age, size, shape, or fitness level. Hosting a comprehensive programme of activities including state-of-the-art gyms, exercise classes, personal training, badminton, swimming and a crèche, there’s no excuse for not giving something a try.

The team at Parish Wharf are excited by the local council’s £1.2 million investment into the centre. Phase 1 of the project has now been completed - it includes high quality changing rooms and a new state-of-the-art gym. Strode Leisure Centre recently benefited from a refurbishment of the wet changing rooms and now hopes to welcome more swimmers to the centre.

Parish Wharf and Strode Leisure Centres are proud of their swimming lesson programme. At any time, approximately 1,600 children are enrolled on the programme, which is delivered to Amateur Swimming Association standards. They offer lessons for all ages and abilities, from babies to club standard swimmers – it’s never too late or too early to learn how to swim. Call the centre now to arrange a free five day trial or to arrange your swimming lessons.

Ffi: Parish Wharf and Strode Leisure Centres: T: 01275 848494

PRIMARY TIMES

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SPECIAL RATES f oR SChooL S

A Bristol Old Vic production

The Independent

The Daily Telegraph

The Guardian

Image: Smith & Milton

Swimming success at Parish Wharf and Strode

27 Nov-17 Jan Box Office 0117 987 7877 bristololdvic.org.uk/swallowsandamazons

“warm-hearted, affectionate and fun” The Daily Telegraph

CHRISTMAS 2014

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25/11/2014 11:55:05

Could you see yourself as a student?

It doesn’t matter who you are or what you do, a new route into higher education could turn your dream of studying into a reality.

Photograph: Bhagesh Sachania

Deb’s story...

Deb Wheeler lives in Easton with four of her five children. A former nurse, she is now a student at the University of Bristol, studying history after successfully completing the University’s Foundation Year in Arts and Humanities.

“I came across the Foundation Year when I was doing some training with Single Parent Action Network,” Deb explains.

“I thought I’d apply, even though I didn’t think I would be good enough as I’d been out of education for 34 years.”

A single mum who had spent the last 14 years looking after her children, Deb not only got an interview, she was offered a place and, just a few months later, became part of the first cohort of Foundation Year students at the University.

“The course was fantastic,” she said. “I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to take on any more information, as I’m so busy with the children, but I’ve proved to myself that I can!”

Find out more about the course and how to apply at: bristol.ac.uk/arts-foundation or call: 0117 954 6631 or email: arts-fyah@bristol.ac.uk Open evening 6 pm to 8.30 pm 14 January 2015 Deadline for applications 31 January 2015

The Foundation Year in Arts and Humanities is a one-year flexible programme that offers a route to an arts degree for people who don’t have the usual qualifications or who may have been out of education or work for a while.

“My kids think I have become the most boring person on the planet as I spout on about everything,” she adds, laughing.

“But they are also seeing some changes as I’m helping them to think about providing evidence to back up statements in their homework. I think they’re really proud of me. I’m going to encourage my daughter to apply! This has been truly life changing.

Now I know I can do a degree.”

Photograph: Nick Smith

bristol.ac.uk/arts-foundation p30.indd 1

21/11/2014 15:55:48

7 4

4

Last gasp gifts

The Christmas shopping is mostly done, but perhaps you still need a stocking filler, or even that elusive main present for the “difficult” person in your life.

Daisy Bartholomew finds out what’s available near you.

3 1

Decorate your own Wooden Heart Box This gift will be the perfect rainy day activity for your child to explore their creative side. Keep your treasures safe in the wooden, heart-shaped box and add a personal touch from the glitter, gems and paint provided. £8.99. Vinegar Hill. Bristol, BS8 1RE W: www.vinegarhill.co.uk

Grow Your Own Lucky Clover A unique Christmas gift that could bring lots of luck for 2015. This ‘grow your own lucky clover’ includes everything you need to grow the plant, with seeds and compost pallet included, it will keep the kids entertained as they watch it grow over the Christmas holidays. £4, Hawkin’s Bazaar. Bath, BA1 1QH W: www.hawkin.com

7

2

Wild Safari Centre Kids will love this safari centre game, which allows them to discover the different animals included in a nifty storage box.

With a selection of cool animal figures, this game is a great way to get to know the wild world. £9.99.

Hawkin’s Bazaar. Bristol, BS1 3XB. W: www.hawkin.com

PRIMARY TIMES

14 Avon Features Xmas 2014.indd 9

for them. Each party includes a gift box of four cupcakes to decorate and all the ingredients and utensils they need. Your child will even look the part as chef’s hats and aprons are provided. The cupcake company can come to your home with an additional charge of £30. £200 per party - for up to eight children. Bath Cupcake Company, Bath, BA1 5DX W: www.bathcakecompany.co.uk

5 4

A Very Victorian Christmas with Father Christmas Tyntesfield House near Bristol transforms into a magical Christmassy experience this year. Take the whole family along to a number of special events featuring festive music, sparkling lights and a storytelling tour around the house and even a chance to meet Father Christmas. Adults £15, children £8 (includes gift). From Fri 5 Dec. Tyntesfield National Trust.

Bristol, BS48 1NX W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ tyntesfield

Holiday Workshop If you need to finish of your Christmas preparations in personal style, why not take your little ones along to join artist Susie Brooks and learn simple print making techniques? Make beautiful Christmas cards for your family and friends. Alternatively, head along to the New Year’s sessions to fulfil your crafty resolutions.

Turn up on the day, or book online.

Adults £5 with up to four accompanied children free. From Dec 7 and continuing into the New Year.

The Holburne Museum, Bath, BA1.

W: www.holburne.org/meet-theartist

Sylvanian Family Ice Cream Van If you’re a fan of the cute bunny family the Sylvanians, this fun ice cream van is a great addition to the collection. The van includes cones, a counter to serve ice cream from and even an ice cream dispenser that has “ice cream” paper elements, ice cream menus and stickers. £24.99. Jack & Jill Toy Shop.

Bristol, BS4 2AX. W: www.jackandjilltoyshop.co.uk

»

6

Children’s cupcake classes Get creative this Christmas, and learn fantastic icing techniques. If your child enjoys baking then this is the perfect gift

CHRISTMAS 2014

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25/11/2014 13:46:47

10

8

Last gasp gifts continued

»

8

13

Monopoly Sometimes the traditional games are the best. This board game classic will get the whole family together this Christmas, pitting generations against each other in fast dealing, hotly disputed trading. The game comes complete with iconic cards, tokens and enough pretend cash to make you feel rich for an afternoon. £9.99. The Works. Bristol, BS1 3HT W: www.theworks.co.uk

9

Giant Fox Eraser This eraser is a fantastic item to add to your stationery collection. Presented in a sweet decorated box, it’s practical and useful and can also act as a decoration for the homework desk. £6.75 Pod, Bristol, BS8 4DS W: www.thepodcompany.co.uk

Cowtastic Christmas fun at Farrington’s Farrington’s Shopping Village and Christmas market is a great place to pick up late gifts from just £1.

There’s a chance for your child to meet Father Christmas in the magical grotto and decorate the tree. Free Entry. Sat 6–Wed 24 Dec. Farrington’s. Bristol BS39 6UB W: www.farringtons.co.uk

touch with a name at the top of the clock. £30.00. Moodle’s. Bristol BS7 8NU. W: www.moodles.biz

10

11

Digger Clock If you have a little one who loves diggers and tractors then this present will be top of the Christmas list. The clock has a silence mechanism to make sure there will be no sleepless nights.

With its quirky bright design, Moodle’s can even add a personal

11 Vintage Christmas Tutu This gorgeous colourful handmade Tutu is the ideal Christmas gift. Be the fairy on top of the Christmas tree when wearing this Sparkly hand-stitched ribbon Tutu. £30.00 Moodle’s.

Bristol BS7 8NU. W: www.Moodles.biz

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Bunny Soft Toy Cuddle up to this soft fluffy bunny in the cold winter nights. Sure to become a much loved addition to your children’s soft toy collection this Christmas. £23. Aspace, Bristol, BS8 2QN. W: www.aspace.co.uk

9 12

Dinosaur Backpack No day out around Christmas time will be complete without this cool backpack – it’s a great motivator when you’re persuading your kids to come on the Boxing Day walk. There’s plenty of space with two side mesh pockets for extra storage that will fit drinking bottles. Adjustable and padded straps for extra comfort. £25.95. Pod. Bristol, BS8 4DS W: www. thepodcompany. co.uk

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PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2014 13:47:57

m e h a t g t e L h a Let ic begin... wit

ter fro m Santa

This year, give a child a magical Christmas with a personalised Letter from Santa. Sent all the way from the North Pole, this special letter will create an amazing childhood memory that will last for years.

Visit nspcc.org.uk/santa to get the magic started.

What your child will receive...

Special personalised message from Santa

ÂŁ5

per SUGGletter DONAESTED TION

Delivered by Rudolph Mail

Registered charity England and Wales 216401. Scotland SC037717. Š 2014 Illustrations by Jason Chapman.

Magical illustrations A treasured keepsake for years to come

Request your Letter today Visit: nspcc.org.uk/santa Remember to request your Letter by

15 December!

p33.indd 1

Call: 0845 839 9304 Text: SANTA to 65599 Texts are charged at your standard network rate.

21/11/2014 15:56:23

Hello Kids!

Thank you so much for the lovely pictures you send me. Pressure of space means I can’t publish them all but please keep trying if you weren’t successful this time.

It’s hard to see beyond Christmas at this time of year but the New Year and half term will come as sure as “eggs is eggs”. So next issue please send me your pictures of My favourite thing to do in the February holidays.

Please send your pictures to: Arty Barty, BN&Media, Temple Way, Bristol, BS99 7HD, or email high resolution jpegs to my editor, mike.gartside@ venue.co.uk. Don’t forget to put your name, age, full home postal address and school on the back: deadline Monday 12 January.

Arty Barty I can sense the excitement in the air from the pictures you have sent me about ‘Getting ready for Christmas’. Well done to the winners, who receive a book from the editor’s cupboard.

CofE Primary ka, 9, St John’s Alicia Derdzins hool, Cheltenham Sc ich still conveys drawn picture wh This is a preciselyitment. The radio in the bottom exc d energy an touch. corner is a lovely

Have fun!

Gracie Hall, 7, Tredworth Junior School, Gloucester Bright lights on the tree sparkle with festive fun. Gracie has done well with this detailed, imaginative picture.

Arty NB. Please read our entry conditions at www. primarytimes.net/avon/ home-intro/tcs

WINNER! Chiara CarrSaunders, 11, St Mary’s RC Primary School, Chippenham What a confident picture, Chiara has created. I’m guessing it’s a sel portrait, with a hinf of Japanese Mang t cartoon style. It a shows she enjoy s her drawing an could go a long d way with her art.

Hannah Burden, 9, Bellefield Primary School, Trowbridge This warm, homely scene beautifully captures the fun a family can have in preparing for Christmas.

Zuzanna

Daisy Taylor, 6, Longwell Green Primary School, Bristol This is drawn in a lovely free hand, almost abstract in style. The pastelly colours of the presents make them look like sweets and the bauble hooks add structure.

Amazing for a 6 year old. Well done Daisy!

6, Little Mead Acad emy, Another vibrant fam Southmead, Bristol ily scene, this pictur e is full of bright, se asonal colours. I love Zuzanna’s wiry self -portrait on the fa r left of the picture.

Alys Wood, 7, Henleaze

Junior School, Bristol I love the chequered adv forming the backdrop of ent calendar this busy painting. Well done Alys.

WINNER!

Harvey Wong, 10, Elm Park Primary, Winterbourne, Bristol.

I think we have an architect in the making with this precisely drawn image of a house, with reindeer above and a snowman at the door.

Ruby Mansfield, 6, Avon Primary School Shirehampton, Bristo , A picture with lots of l. character by another talented young artist.

WINNER!

34

CHRISTMAS 2014

14 Avon Books & Arty Barty Xmas 2014.indd 34

PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2014 11:57:24

Cassandra Regan reviews the new releases.

Here be Bristol giants Local legend has it that giants use to live in Bristol and even helped shape the landscape, carving out the city’s famous gorge, to win the love of the Princess Avonia. Oliver Rigby and Tom Bonson rediscover this fabulous story and take us back to prehistoric times, showing the mythical tale of the two brothers Goram and Ghyston.

This is a visually wonderful book with fantastic illustrations of Bristol locations. The opening page sees the giants peeping out from behind the colourful houses of Cliftonwood and Hotwells, a great way of getting children to think how our modern city might have been created. While, from ‘Frozen’ through to the myths of various religions, pupils are often told fantastical stories of other cultures and places, local children very rarely get the chance to hear the myths that grew up in their own back yard. Congratulations, then to Rigby and Bonson, for this lively and entertaining piece of work.

Goram & Ghyston The Bristol Giants Oliver Rigby (illustrations Tom Bonson), £6.99. www.bristolgiants.co.uk

Time travelling toddlers

A nose for history

If little Bailey hadn’t gone out in the storm, Holly and Luke wouldn’t be outside getting wet, worrying about their baby brother. They also wouldn’t have watched the toddler get stolen by the evil Gilberto Megamean and all of them taken on a time travelling adventure they’ll remember forever.

When Megamean’s plans backfire as his transporter malfunctions, Holly and Luke are sent back to World War II and ancient Egypt: it’s hard to capture someone if they keep being transported through time and space. But with the help of some magical creatures and a white witch they might just make it home before Mum and Dad get home, with Bailey in tow.

This is a fantastic yarn and Whiteford has woven a wonderful, colourful story into the fabric of history. Not only do little readers get to go along for the adventure they also get a lesson in history without even realising they’re learning.

“Esteemed Sir, the matter seems perfectly clear. You are my nose.”

One morning Major Kavalyov awakes to find his nose has been replaced by a smooth patch of skin. No, it’s not a surreal futuristic story about cosmetic surgery, but a retelling for children

by Italian author Andrea Camilleri of Nikolai Gogol’s short story, ‘The Nose’.

This series by Pushkin Children’s Books nobly reinvigorates a range historical tales, presenting them appealingly for modern children.

Here we discover the startling site of the Major’s nose going about town pretending to be a person, while the Major himself wrestles with the indignity of his facial loss. The illustrations are sumptuous and the prose is elegant, even if, with its references to snuff, it might be deemed politically incorrect in places. But Camilleri has stuck closely to Gogol’s fantastical style and it’s quirky details like that which bring history alive for children.

Ten Minutes of Terror Rhona Whiteford Wild Dog Books, £5.99, www.wildbooks.co.uk

The Nose Andrea Camilleri, (illustrated by Maja Celija), £14.99,Pushkin Children’s Books, www.pushkinchildrens.com

Sharing your Rolo?

Light in shade

Rolo is a cute, rescued dog, full of mischief, who becomes a time traveller after a chance meeting with the mysterious Athelstan. This strange tree-like being takes him on a journey through history to the English Civil War and as far afield as Pompeii. In spite of the fact that Rolo writes a blog, his new owners know nothing of his adventures.

The idea for Rolo came to Wiltshire-based author Debi Evans after she started a blog for her own rescued Jack Russell and friends and family told her it would make a great basis for a story. She hopes that Rolo’s adventures will spark children’s curiousity and perhaps encourage families to enjoy nature together. Rolo’s story is the perfect mix of adventure and learning. ‘Athelstan . . .’ is the first of two books in this series, while the second, ‘The Chilvester Passage’, sees Rolo encounter William Shakespeare, plague-carrying rats and even space travelling guinea pigs.

Jack, the young teenager at the heart of Cheltenham-based author J.M. Forster’s new novel, suffers a rare allergy which isolates him from the world. The only person who can help him with his lifethreatening sensitivity to light is his father, who’s mysteriously missing following his parents’ separation.

Jack resolves to find him, and sets off at dusk, encountering a girl of his own age, Beth, who also carries a burden that she isn’t yet ready to share. It’s a tale full of adventure and mystery, which takes this unlikely duo to a local library where they uncover disturbing facts about Jack’s father’s former employer and a curious scientific research programme.

Forster tells the story with direct, accessible language, with some nice social observation (for example about the brevity of teenagers’ texts), while her action sequences are plausible and well written. While the plot will keep you guessing until the end it also tells a warm human tale of friendship between two young people, showing how just having a mate at your side makes things seem more bearable.

The Secret Adventures of Rolo – Athelstan and the Time Tunnel Debi Evans, £6 www.debievans.com

Shadow Jumper J.M. Forster, £6.99, Scribblepad Press, www.jm-forster.com

PRIMARY TIMES

14 Avon Books & Arty Barty Xmas 2014.indd 35

CHRISTMAS 2014

35

25/11/2014 11:58:13

BATH PHILHARMONIA presents THE SNOWMAN

The film classic with live orchestra! £15 adults, and only £8 for children

Tickets: Bath Box Office 01225 463362 www.bathboxoffice.org.uk or by phone or online at Ticketline 08448 889991 www.bathforum.co.uk

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First broadcast on Channel 4 in 1982, The Snowman has been an annual favourite ever since.

Bring the whole family to enjoy the experience of the film with live orchestral accompaniment, as well as lots of other seasonal favorites, a Christmas fancy dress parade (any costume related to Christmas) and a visit by Santa!

PIC CREDIT: ©SNOWMAN ENTERPRISES LTD 1982, 2013

Tuesday, 23 December, The Forum, Bath, at 4:00pm

21/11/2014 15:56:55

Classifieds 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

Tuition

Room for Hire

PIANO LESSONS

Suitable for crèche and toddler groups.

A very welcoming community building run by the charity HWCP

Additional meeting rooms and office space at competitive rates.

HWCP @Symes, Peterson Avenue, Hartcliffe, Bristol BS13 0BE Email: reception@hwcp.org.uk | Phone 0117 903 8044

Swimming

No mess, no fuss, just lovely smells 07595 350 764 www.bubbletastic.co.uk WWW.WAVESSWIMSCHOOL.CO.UK

BRYAN THE MAGICIAN • PRE-SCHOOL • PARTIES • • FETES • SCHOOLS • • BALLOON MODELLING • • PUPPETS • GAMES • • PARTY PRESENTS • COMPLETE PARTIES ARRANGED

TELEPHONE

01761 439696

www.bryanthemagician.co.uk CRB Approved

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: 8 WEEKS - 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

Tuition in Classical, Jazz, Blues, Pop. Daytime, after school, evenings.

Children and Adults.

Optional ABRSM exams.

To book a free intro lesson contact Patrick Hammerman

0117 904 8648

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

individual lessons and group workshops for children from 3 to adults Studios in central and north Bristol BRISTOL MUSIC SCHOOL www.bristolmusicschool.com

• 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

tel 0117 244 0053 web www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk

JIM JOHNSTON

Tel: 0787 0887242 E-mail: jim@jimjohnstonmusic.com Making swimming lessons fun for all abilities

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:

Tel: 0117 908 1291 www.ezzomagic.co.uk

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

Tuition

www.guitarlessonsbristol.com

Martial Arts HANHAM & DOWNEND TAEKWON-DO

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)

Horse Riding Wapley Riding Stables

Riding Lessons for all ages and abilities Book now for FREE bouncy castle hire Limited period only

• 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

enquiries@wapleystables.co.uk www.wapleystables.co.uk Wapley Hill, Westerleigh, Bristol. BS37 8RJ 01454 321583 or 07860530199 PRIMARY TIMES

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CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY FUN SESSIONS FOR CHILDREN 4-12 YRS MONDAY 22ND DECEMBER TUESDAY 23RD DECEMBER 10-3pm £12 per day (sibling discounts available) Gymnastics, Trampolining, Airtrack, Bouncy castle Parachute and Disco games. Christmas crafts.

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

Piano, Sax, Guitar, Drums, Cello, Flute

FULL DETAILS SEE WEB: www.wavesswimschool.co.uk OR CONTACT JENNY 01275 877428/ JACKIE 01275 790457/CAROLINE 01275 865185

Crime scene investigation parties and workshops for children age 7+

Kingswood Foundation BS15 8DB ©LW

Soap and bath bomb making parties

Gymnastics

Party Ideas

©LW

Party Ideas

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

To reach 66,000 families in your area advertise in the next issue of Primary Times.

Call Caroline 0117 934 3737 or email caroline. stretton@b-nm.co.uk CHRISTMAS 2014 37

26/11/2014 12:24:53

CYCLING TO FIGHT EBOLA

W

hat do Sir Bob Geldof, Ellie Goulding and Ed Sheeran have in common with Jasper Brown, Bruno Thomasset, Jos Knudson Fulford and Ruben Underwood Nielsen (pictured, left to right)?

Answer, they’re all raising money to fight the Ebola crisis in West Africa. While Sir Bob et al may have had nationwide coverage and have already raised millions of pounds, the efforts of these Bristol boys, and others like them, show how important it is to raise money for disaster relief at a local level.

They have already raised over £1,700 for the Disasters Emergency Committee Ebola Crisis Appeal by cycling along the Bristol to Bath cycle path for the first time, at the tender ages of 9 (Jos and Ruben) and 10 (Jasper and Bruno). This November they set out from Bristol’s Greville

Smythe Park, successfully completing the 15 mile trip to central Bath, while three of them even made the return journey by bike.

“Although we considered abseiling and kayaking, we decided on cycling because it can be quite hard yet fun,” they say. “We wanted to push ourselves and this was the first time we’ve cycled all that way. The ride went brilliantly, and although we were shattered the following day, we’re fully recovered, now.”

They point out that Ebola has killed about 4,900 people and that thousands more could die from it in just a few weeks. “We’re hoping to reach £2,000, so please donate to help fight this terrible disease,” they implore.

Ffi and to donate: W: www.justgiving.com/ Katherine-Thomasset1/ to donate.

ANCIENT BATTLE SITE SAVED

T

he site of a battle that took place over 5,000 years ago has been preserved for the enjoyment of future generations thanks to a National Trust project.

The archaeological remains at Crickley Hill suggest a battle took place there around 3600BC. These remains were covered by the ramparts and ditches of an Iron Age hill fort over 2000 years ago and there is also evidence of occupation there from the fifth century, when the Roman army left Britain.

For many years, erosion at Crickley Hill had been threatening to destroy its unique archaeology.

Fortunately its historical importance helped secure enough funding to see vital conservation work completed.

National Trust archaeologist 38

CHRISTMAS 2014

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Martin Papworth says, “Crickley is a fabulous archaeological site of national importance. I am delighted that this project has made such huge improvements to the site and will help maintain it for generations to come.”

The National Trust carried out the project which included backfilling extensive rabbit burrows, re-turfing and fencing off some eroded areas.

Other areas have been covered with gravel but left open for walking on. While the gravelling protects these areas, says the trust, it also gives visitors the opportunity to fully explore the area.

The repairs have been funded

by Natural England’s Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) scheme and the Gloucestershire Monuments Management Scheme (MMS).

“Everyone working on Crickley Hill has demonstrated a great deal of dedication and hard work,” says Martin Jones, the trusts’s area ranger at the site. “It highlights how important it is for the National Trust and local organisations to take care of beautiful, historic outdoor areas like this.”

Ffi: W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ crickley-hill

GET BAKING!

S

chool children across the area are getting ready to bake for a good cause this Christmas as the housing charity Shelter launches its second annual Great Gingerbread House Sale to raise money for homeless families. With 90,000 UK children facing the prospect of waking up homeless this holiday season, Shelter is calling on schools to support their emergency Christmas appeal by designing, baking, building and, most importantly, selling an array of gingerbread creations.

Last year, school students across the country rose to the challenge, building decadent creations from wintery gingerbread cottages to giant gingerbread country estates, all the while raising nearly £80,000 for the charity.

Shelter is challenging schools to raise even more this year to make sure that the charity can continue helping families struggling to keep a roof over their heads.

To make things easy for

teachers, they will be able to download lesson plans tailored for the curriculum, alongside a range of other resources. This includes tempting recipes, fundraising tips, and certificates and posters, to make each school’s Great Gingerbread House Sale a huge success.

An ideal activity for school Christmas Fairs, an all-school challenge or simply fun Christmas-themed lessons, the Great Gingerbread House Sale is open to all ages and abilities Campbell Robb, chief executive of Shelter, said: “It’s just not right that in this day and age, there are any homeless children in this country, let alone 90,000. That’s why we want schools and community groups to join our Great Gingerbread House Sale.”

Ffi: Shelter W: www.shelter.org.uk/ginger bread

OUTDOOR MOJO

G

reat news for teachers in the Bristol area: there’s a new way to bring the curriculum to life for your students. Instead of classroombased activities, why not take your learning outside? Mojo Active works with schools to support topics such as Tudors, Romans and The Blitz and World War II. It incorporates SATs, GCSE and A-Level learning pathways in a fun environment.

Set in private grounds near Almondsbury, Bristol, Mojo Active provides a natural environment for a range of experiences with the aim of making subjects more engaging and memorable.

A recent Tudor experience saw students try their hand at archery and make their own arrows as well as participate in an orienteering session along with Henry VIII and Mary Queen of Scots.

Pupils studying World War II undertook a field gun challenge around the military assault course and then partook in a downed pilot exercise. This involved using a map to locate various objects around the site, including a stretcher, before recovering the injured pilot, who was carrying secret information vital to the war effort!

The two-hour, half-day or fullday workshops can be custom designed to suit primary, GCSE and A-Level studies as well as instil teamwork and resourcefulness.

Schools can build modules for PE

GCSE including archery, climbing and orienteering, and enhance their CCF and Duke of Edinburgh training provision with survival and shelter-building skills. These can be run as one-off sessions, weekly visits or a full summer Activities Week programme.

Activities make full use of the outdoor facilities at Mojo Active including the assault course, low ropes, tunnel maze, zip wire, climbing wall, archery and woodland camps. The log cabin serves as an informal study environment and schools have use of two minibuses for transport to and from the activities.

Ffi: Mojo Active W: www.mojoactive.co.uk PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2014 13:50:13

Keep your little elves entertained this Christmas.

Come and see Rocket the Reindeer in 3D. Christmas has arrived at your local Wyevale Garden Centre and so has Father Christmas! This year he’s got a special treat for your little elves – a Magical Cinema Grotto, where we’ll be showing the festive film ‘Rocket the Reindeer’ in brilliant 3D. Afterwards, Father Christmas will say hello and give everyone a surprise present! They can also meet Father Christmas as part of a festive breakfast and tea, choose a present and decorate a gingerbread Christmas tree to take home. So make sure your little elves are booked in early for the 3D Cinema Grotto and Breakfast and Tea with Father Christmas at wyevalegardencentres.co.uk/events Find us at Cadbury and nationwide.

(Formerly Garden & Leisure)

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21/11/2014 15:57:35

www.bristolgrammarschool.co.uk

Whole School

Open Morning Ad ve

Tuesday 13 January 2015 10.00am–12.00 noon

e ur nt

Entrance Examinations and Assessments for entry in September 2015 are being held on:

Saturday 10 January 2015 Year 7–10 Entrance Examination

Saturday 17 January 2015 Year 7 Entrance Examination

Saturday 24 January 2015 Tuesday 27 January 2015 Reception assessments only

Fr ie

Reception assessments and Year 3–6 tests

ips h s nd

To book your place or to request further information, please call Hollie Skerritt

0117 933 9885

on or e-mail recruitment@bgs.bristol.sch.uk.

Learning

Infant and Junior S Prospectus

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21/11/2014 15:59:02