Glos Primary Times Whitsun 2014

i r ma ry ptimes

11 12 1 yrs

2 3 4 yrs

in Gloucestershire

Issue 129 23 May-22 July 2014

Also Father’s Day How tutors help Outdoor events

Go wild in Cheltenham this summer!

Celebrate music, science and reading with the family at one of Cheltenham’s festivals. Page 4 Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

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PRIMARY TIMES

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As summer approaches, May Half Term is a chance to finalise plans for the season ahead and explore the many attractions that the West has to offer families.

Academic planning will be high on the agenda for Gloucestershire parents with the new look 11+ coming up in the county so we discuss what tutors can do to help children prepare for this exam (P6). On a lighter note, we study festival form this year, as events become increasingly child-friendly (P16). Look out, too, for new Father’s Day ideas (P20), as our correspondent travels the globe to see how they celebrate the day elsewhere. And, if in doubt what to do of a weekend, don’t forget to check our packed listings!

a ry ptriim mes 11 12 1 yrs

2 3 4

the editor

yrs

ershire 2014 J in Gloucest 22 July M 22 23 23 May-

THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P11 PINBOARD P17 ADVERTISING FEATURES P18 CLASSIFIEDS P21 PUPILS’ PAGE P22 HELP WHERE IT’S NEEDED P6 Preparing for the new 11+ exam.

FESTIVAL FEVER! P16 The best music and kids’ fun in the West.

FATHER’S DAY P20 Alex Hurley takes us around the world to get inspiration for Dad’s treat this year.

29 12 IIssue 129

Also 11+ tuition Father’s day Safe social networking

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

Go wild in m Cheltenhaer!

Cover image: McPherson Stevens h the this sum, m reading wit e4 science and festivals. Pag ’s music Celebrate one of Cheltenham family at Theatre • Arty

Save money! ndabout • Barty • Rou

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

Editor:

Commercial director:

Advertising:

Distribution:

Design: Production: Main Office:

Mike Gartside mike.gartside@venue.co.uk Paul Kimberley paul.kimberley@b-nm.co.uk 0117 934 3780 Caroline Stretton caroline.stretton@b-nm.co.uk 0117 934 3737 Ellie Pipe eleanor.pipe@b-nm.co.uk 0117 934 3730 Simon Butler simon.butler@b-nm.co.uk 0117 934 3741 Cath Evans, Mike Gartside Emma Gorton, Ruth Wood 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 county for their assistance in distributing the magazine and their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or the relevant contributor.

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

PRIMARY TIMES

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Find these amazing offers this issue!

Birdland – Kids go free Chedworth Roman Villa – Under 5s go free Bristol Aquarium – Kids go free Cotswold Wildlife Park – Save money: e-tickets now available Primary Times has a smashing, new-look website, a portal to all the 60 regional editions of the magazine including Avon, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. The new site is brighter, cleaner and easier to navigate, so go ahead and explore what’s on in your area on: www.primarytimes.net

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Cheltenham Festivals of S cience, PIC: MCPHERSON STEVENS

Music and Literature, 2 014 Website: cheltenhamfe stiva Box office: ls.com 0844 880 80 94

Go wild in Cheltenham this summer!

Musical C Mayhem Deadly Science With Steve Backshall, star of CBBC’s Deadly 60 series, in charge of this year’s awesome Cheltenham Science Festival, children and their families are sure to have a really wild visit.

Visitors can catch Steve talking about his Deadly Pole to Pole adventures, or attend one of his ‘Festival Picks’ including fascinating talks on dinosaurs or sporting bodies. In the latter, a rugby player will scrum down with a ballerina and, thanks to MRI scans, audiences will be able to get under their skin and see how their physical makeup differs.

Other family events include

PIC:ANNA LYTHGOE

Tue 3-Sun 8 Jun

ATTENTION TEACHERS! Book It! for schools: full details online on Thu 22 May Booking opens Tue 10 Jun 4

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Wed 2-Sun 13 Jul At this year’s Cheltenham Music Festival, author and illustrator James Mayhew brings a performance of the Carnival of Animals by composer Saint-Saëns to life before your very eyes as he paints live on stage to the music.

Families can also hear author Michael Morpurgo’s incredible ‘Private Peaceful’ story, narrated by Michael with vocal accompaniment from folk trio Coope, Boyes & Simpson.

For a more raucous concert, there’s a crazy percussion extravaganza with the bonkers O Duo, who dash around the stage playing well known classical music pieces on a variety of different percussion instruments.

On Sat 12 Jul there’s also a free party in Pittville Park, with music, art activities, and performances from festival artists and local groups.

to Train Your Dragon’ author Cressida Cowell, ‘Astrosaurs’ author Steve Cole, ‘Roman Mysteries’ author Caroline Lawrence, performance poet Benjamin Zephaniah, young adult author Michael Grant, ‘Sir Charlie Stinky Socks’ author Krystina Stephenson, and author and illustrator Liz Pichon.

Ffi: W: www.cheltenhamfestivals.com T: 0844 880 8094

Love Literature Fri 3-Sun 12 Oct The full festival line-up, including the family Book It! programme, has yet to be announced, but add the Festival dates to your diary now as you don’t want to miss out!

Family authors already confirmed include former Children’s Laureates Michael Rosen and Anthony Browne, ‘How

PIC: MCPHERSON STEVENS

LEGO workshops, a very noisy demo on the Science of Explosions from TV’s Greg Foot, as well as a potentially life-saving session on surviving a Zombie Apocalypse.

Children can also discover the science of sweets, build their own water rocket and learn how all life develops from a single cell, while little brothers and sisters can learn about space with the Timezones astronauts.

There’s also plenty of free hands-on science in the festival’s Discover Zone in the Town Hall don’t miss out!

heltenham’s summer festivals are the perfect way to get your family summer off to a flying start. With Science, Music and Literature Festivals all lined up over the coming months, here are just a few of the family friendly treats to look forward to….

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Pic: 11+ Tutoring Academy

Pic: Cotswold Education

needed

Help where it’s

As Gloucestershire’s grammar school entrants prepare for the new 11+ exam, Stacey-Joanne Byles explores how private tutors can provide assistance.

P

arents’ motivation for giving their children private tuition can be many and various.

While, for the most part, primary schools provide all the opportunity a child needs to succeed academically, there may be occasions when a pupil needs a little extra help.

Perhaps a child is struggling with a particular subject or, conversely, he or she is especially talented in one area and parents feel extra tuition will help them achieve excellence.

Another motivation is to give pupils the extra knowledge and confidence they need to pass their 11+ exam. This is the certificate usually accepted for entry into one of Gloucestershire’s seven grammar schools, the state funded schools with selective entry, which many parents believe offer a particularly strong Pic: Edward Jenner School

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secondary education for their child.

This year, the challenge for Gloucestershire pupils wishing to attend grammar school is slightly different. From September 2014, the county’s grammar schools have decided to adopt the University of Durham’s CEM examination as their 11+, which they consider a better test of a pupil’s innate ability than the previous exam. The CEM exams test verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning in English and mathematics and private tutors in the Gloucestershire area feel they can help children achieve success in the new system, as well as providing valuable longer term academic benefit.

Maths tutor James Christian believes the previous 11+ exam was overly abstract. “The old exam was wide of the mark for the grammar school curriculum,” he says. “The new exam is testing children in the right direction.”

Private tutoring organisation Cotswold Education confirms, “The new 11+ exam encourages a wider range of educational platforms, further numerical thinking and comprehension. It tests skill and its long term benefits are great, but it doesn’t discourage tuition.”

According to Edward Jenner School (EJS), “The new 11+ exam is much better and can maintain improvements in maths.” The school believes its tuition provides training for life, not just temporary skills for the exam. Specialising in Maths, EJS holds an 11+ exam mock morning in the summer holidays.

Catherine See Home Tuition is also offering extra tuition during the summer holidays in preparation for the new exam.

Kathryn McMahon from 11+ Tutoring Academy says, “We had to invest time to create a new syllabus and resources, prior to the change.”

She offers group or one-to-one tuition structured to your child’s needs as well as a mock exam. The company does not “cram” in revision sessions, she says, but provides a solid grounding in all subjects.

Meanwhile, Mary Farquhar of Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cards, explains, “The new exam demands strong vocabulary and comprehensions skills. Farquhar’s vocabulary flash cards will encourage your child to build up a bank of challenging vocabulary synonyms, antonyms and compound words.”

Fellow tutoring business Bond 11+ has also created a range of material that covers maths, English, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning.

It says its range of books, assessment papers, online practice and mock tests will help children succeed in the short and long term.

Explore Learning Cheltenham feels, “The change to the 11+ was needed. The new exam allows children to show a broader range of skill and have an overall better understanding of subjects.”

So, whether you’re offering your child a bit of extra help to pass the 11+ or feel he or she needs assistance at either end of the academic spectrum, the role of private tutors can offer a valuable enhancement to the efforts of daily schooling.

11+ Tutoring Academy T: 01242 221271 E: 11plustutoringacademy@gmail.com Bond 11 Plus T: 01865 354 721 W: www.bond11plus.co.uk

Catherine See Home Tuition T: 07796 964817 E: CatherineSee@hotmail.com Cotswold Education T: 01242 572411 W: www.cotswoldeducation.co.uk E: info@cotswoldeducation.co.uk Edward Jenner School T: 01452 380808 W: www.edwardjennerschool.org.uk E: Info.ejs@gmail.com Explore Learning T: 01242 279947 W: www.explorelearning.co.uk/ cheltenham E: cheltham@explorelearning.co.uk James Christian Maths Tutor T: 01453 751285 E: james.b.christian@googlemail.com Mary Farquhar T: 0124 258 1792 W: www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk E: info@vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

Pic: Explore Learning, Cheltenham

PRIMARY TIMES

07/05/2014 14:55:05

Passionate about Learning Grammar School Information Morning and Mock Test Saturday 14th June 2014, 9.45-12.00 in Cheltenham Find out more about the new style test while your child takes a practice paper.

Grammar School Mock Test Morning Saturday 19th July 2014, 9.00-12.00 in Cheltenham

2015 / 2016 EXAM - REGISTER WITH US NOW

You will receive a report on your child’s performance after each event. See our website for further details. Places for both events are limited so contact us now to reserve your place.

• Starts September 2014 • Runs weekly - Wednesday and Saturday courses available • For year 4 and 5 pupils • Cheltenham/Gloucester location

Modelled on the real test morning with mock papers in all the new topic areas.

Tel 01242 572392

www.CotswoldEducation.co.uk email: info@cotswoldeducation.co.uk We welcome enquiries from experienced tutors.

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NEW GLOUCESTERSHIRE CEM 11 PLUS EXAM • Our tuition and mock exams have been rated as “Excellent” • Professional tutors • Up to date resources for the new exam

GROUP TUITION 1 TO 1 TUITION • 1 to 1 /mini group places available Contact Kathryn on 01242 221271 www.11plustutoringacademy.co.uk 11plustutoringacademy@gmail.com

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FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS ★ GLOUCESTER, CHELTENHAM, STROUD & BEYOND Hugless Douglas at Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, Thu 29 May and The Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, Sun 20 Jul.

GLOUCESTERSHIRE THE BACON THEATRE Dean Close School, Shelbourne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE, 01242 258002, www.bacontheatre.co.uk Wizard of Oz Thu 10 Jul–Sun 13 Jul, 7.30pm (Thu-Sat), 2.30pm (Sat-Sun), £8-£14 • Join Dorothy on an adventure to the world of Oz. Meet the Tin Man, the Lion and the Scarecrow as they follow our heroine and her dog on her adventure. Includes the feel-good hits ‘Somewhere over the Rainbow’ and ‘Follow the Yellow Brick Road’.

History of Britain Fri 18 Jul, 7.30pm, £13 • A breathless race through the centuries in which Harold II and William the Conqueror fail to see eye to eye, Henry VIII decides five marriages just aren’t enough and Queen Victoria is not amused. Thrown into the mix are songs, sketches and silliness, suitable for all ages.

Hugless Douglass Sun 20 Jul, 5pm, £10/£32 (family) • The tale of a huggable, lovable young brown bear who wakes up one morning in need of a hug, join Douglass on his search for the perfect one. Lots of music, puppetry and storytelling.

Oliver Twist Fri 1 Aug, 7.30pm, £13 • Dickens’ classic tale of poverty and pick-pocketing, privilege and prosperity, is unravelled to reveal all the secrets of Oliver’s past and the colourful characters he meets along the way.

EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk Peppa Pig’s Big Splash Wed 4-Thu 5 Jun, 10am, 1pm, 4pm, £15.50-£17.50 • Sing along with Peppa and her friends as they have fun putting up bunting, running stalls and raising money to fix the leaking nursery roof. Grab your wellies and brollies and get splashing.

ROSES THEATRE The Roses, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 5NX. 01684 295074, www. rosestheatre.org The Simon and Garfunkel Story Sat 24 May, 7.30pm, £17 • The story of both Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel from their humble beginnings as rock ‘n’ roll duo ‘Tom and Jerry’, right through their massive success, break-up and their 1981 Central Park reformation concert.

Hugless Douglas Story Thu 29 8 MAY HALF TERM 2014

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Doo and the gang as they solve the mystery of Pharaoh Hatchepsout’s pyramid: not such an easy task when there are mysterious mummies and an angry Pharaoh guarding the pyramid.

THE BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org. uk Constellations Sat 24 May, 2pm/6pm, £6-£10/£25 (family) • Dance, puppetry and digital visuals, combined with playfulness, creativity and style, make for an accessible piece of dance theatre suitable for children and their families.

May,11.30am, 2.30pm • Young fans of the huggable bear can see their favourite story brought to life in an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and high energy storytelling. Ideal for children aged between 3 and 7.

A Magical Evening of Dance Thu 5 Jun, 5.30pm, 8pm, £6/£8 • Venture into the fairy tale world of childhood, and the hidden secrets of the circus, as music box ballerinas, jack-in-thebox clowns, snakes and ladders, and Disney favourites all come to life.

Beauty And The Beast Thu 12 Jun, 7.30pm, £9-£15 • Ballet Cymru bring this timeless tale to life using a blend of classical technique and storytelling. The critically acclaimed ballet features choreography by Creative Wales Award winner Darius James, costumes by Welsh designer Steve Denton and haunting music by composer David Westcott.

Constellations Thu 17 Jun, 6.30pm, £6.50-£10 • Dance, puppetry and digital visuals, combined with playfulness, creativity and style, make for an accessible piece of dance theatre suitable for children and their families.

Aladdin Thu 24 Jul, 2.30pm, £7 • Colourful tale set in the Middle East, a place of mystery, enchantment and strange, mythical creatures. Shadow puppets tell the story of a poor street boy who falls in love with a royal princess. Follow his wild and dangerous adventure as he gets caught up in events beyond his control. 4+

FURTHER AFIELD THE BREWERY THEATRE 291 North Street, Southville, Bristol BS3 1JP. 0117 902 0344, www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com How Cold My Toes Wed 2-Sun 6 Jul, 4.30pm (Wed),11am & 2pm (Thu),

11am & 4.30pm (Fri), 11am & 2pm (Sat & Sun), £7 • Magical journey through the seasons, from the vitality of Spring all the way to the frosty winter, in just an hour. Award-winning theatre company Travelling Light create an exciting piece of dance theatre for the very young.

THE BRISTOL HIPPODROME St. Augustine’s Parade, BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www.atgtickets.com/ bristol Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake Tue 20-Sat 24 May, 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed, Thu & Sat), £22.40-£46.40 • Matthew Bourne’s “powerful and original” interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake turns tradition upside down, and took the dance world by storm when it was first performed.

Fame Mon 26-Sat 31 May, 7.30pm, 2.30pm (Wed & Sat), £12.90-£41.40 • This brand new production will take you on a “hi-octane roller coaster ride through dizzy heights and crashing lows” as a group of starstruck wannabes embark on their quest for the ultimate accolade.

Sing-A-Long-A Grease Sun 15 Jun, 7.30pm, £24.90 • The host will lead audiences on a vocal warm-up before the show, and even teaches a hand jive, so you’ll have all the skills you need to become a T-bird or a Pink Lady for the rest of the evening.

Andy Ford Comedy Clubbed Live!

Sun 22 Jun, 7.30pm, £20.90 • West Country Comedy star and Panto favourite Andy Ford performs his one man stand up show for the whole family. Good, old fashioned, no swearing humour, at its best.

Singin’ in the Rain Tue 22 Jul-Sat 9 Aug, 7.30pm & 2.30pm (Wed & Sat), £15-£49.50 • Packed with romance, comedy and glamour. Screen star Max Caulfield plays studio boss R F Simpson and Vicky Binns is starlet Lina Lamont.

Scooby Doo-The Mystery of the Pyramid Sat 17 Aug, 6.30pm & 2.30pm, £21.40 • Follow Scooby-

COLSTON HALL Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5AR. 0844 887 1500, www.colstonhall. org Shreya Ghoshal Thu 29 May, 7.30pm, £32.25-£53.75 • Popular Bollywood singer, known for an extensive list of hits in India.

Breakin’ Convention Sat 31 May, 7.30pm • Sadler’s Wells’ international festival of hip hop dance theatre promises some jawdropping performances. The hall is transformed from top to bottom “as you’ve never seen it before”.

THE WYVERN THEATRE Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. 01793 524481, www.wyverntheatre.org.uk Monday Night Magic Mon 2 Jun, Mon 7 Jul, Mon 4 Aug & Mon 1 Sep, 7pm, £10 • Evening of entertainment with Bill Masters, whose magical skills promise to delight and captivate even the most sceptical of audiences.

Bananas in Pyjamas Sun 22 Jun, 1pm, £13.50 • It’s party time in Cuddlestown Park, but the guest of honour has gone missing. Help the Banana detectives solve the case in this interactive singing, dancing show.

Aliens Love Underpants Sun 13 Jul, 1.30pm-3.30pm, £13.50 • The book by Clair Freedman and Ben Cort is brought to life on stage for the first time. Effects, madcap action, original music, and lots of aliens, create an entertaining production for the whole family.

Old Macdonald Had a Farm Sat 26 Jul, 2.30pm, £10.50 (adult)/£9.50 (child)/£9.50 (family) • Old Macdonald’s animals have gone missing, can you help a friendly scientist and his time machine get them back? Farmyard tale combined with nursery rhymes, games, and sing along songs including Heads, Shoulders Knees and Toes and of course Old Macdonald Had A Farm.

PRIMARY TIMES

07/05/2014 12:24:44

MAY/JUNE OFFER

ONE ADULT GOES FREE WITH A PAYING CHILD WITH THIS VOUCHER

VALID TO 30TH JUNE, 2014 NOT TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER

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

Deadlines: List your school or community group’s events in Primary Times for free. We work half a term in advance so we’re now collecting information for August and September: deadline Mon 16 Jun. 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!

co.uk • Marvel at the Pocket Handkerchief Tree, given its name because of the thousands of white handkerchief-like bracts that cover it.

UNTIL SUN 28 SEP LAND ROVER SAFARI Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt. org.uk, 11am & 2pm (weekends and school holidays only) £5 (adult)/£3 (child) plus admission • Enjoy the opportunity to explore the reserve in the company of an expert warden and view the wild birds which live on the banks of the Severn – all from the comfort of a seat in the covered trailer. The safari is booked on arrival.

MAY

UNTIL WED 29 OCT BERKLEY CASTLE OPEN Berkeley Castle, Berkeley, Gloucestershire, GL13 9PJ. 01453 810303, www.berkeley-castle. com, Sun-Wed, 11am-5pm, £10 (adult)/£5.50 (child)/£8.50 (concs/student)/£28 (family)/ free (under 3s) • One of Gloucestershire’s most popular tourist attractions has reopened in time to welcome the warmer months.

UNTIL MON 26 MAY BRISTOL WALKING FESTIVAL Various Bristol locations. www. bristolwalkingfestival.co.uk • Over 100 guided walks available throughout the city and beyond, on themes such as leisure and learning, health, arts, creativity and active travel. Includes opportunities for sketching, networking and learning about the suffragettes.

UNTIL WED 24 DEC GUIDED WALK Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT, 01453 891223, www.wwt. org.uk, 11am, £11.18 (adult)/£6.09 (child)/under 4’s free • Join one of the volunteers as they lead a walk explaining the history of the centre, and the birds you can see. The walk usually lasts an hour but visitors are free to wander at any time should something catch their eye.

UNTIL SUN 1 JUN DAVIDA DELIGHTS Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh, Glos, GL56 9AB. 01386 701441, www.batsarb.

UNTIL SUN 7 DEC GLAD ALL OVER: REMEMBERING 1964 Cotswold Motoring Museum, The Old Mill, Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BY. 01451 821255, www.cotswoldmotoringmuseum.co.uk, 10am-6pm • This year’s special exhibition takes a nostalgic look back on 1964, with a display of the collection’s 1964 Zephyr and two 1964 Royal Enfield motorcycles, as well as photographs, posters and songs from that iconic year. The museum is owned by CSMA club, which has supported civil service employees since 1923.

ONGOING AND REGULAR EVENTS ARE NOW LISTED AT THE END OF ROUNDABOUT

Toad Hall Talks, daily at Slimbridge Wetland Centre, throughout the year.

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UNTIL WED 31 DEC TOAD HALL TALK Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt. org.uk, daily, 2.15pm (additional talk 12.30pm – weekends) £11.18 (adult)/£6.09 (child)/ under 4’s

Tetbury Woolsack Races, Mon 26 May

free • Visit ‘Toad Hall’ and hear Jay Redbond, the centre’s amphibians expert, give an insight into the world of these watery creatures. There’s an opportunity to hold some of his collection of frogs, toads and newts and ask questions.

FRI 23 MAY-SAT 7 JUN SALISBURY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL Venues throughout Salisbury, Wiltshire. 01722 332 241, www. salisburyfestival.co.uk. The annual 16-day Ageas Salisbury International Arts includes a wealth of theatre productions for children plus original performances from different artistic media, including fine art, literature, dance and music.

The festival begins with the family oriented Close Encounters on Sat 24 May-Sun 25 May. SAT 24 MAY TUDOR BIRDS OF PREY DAY John Moore Museum, 41 Church Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5SN. www.johnmooremuseum.org, 10am1pm/2pm-5pm, £3 (adult)/£2.50 (seniors/students)/£2 (child)/ £8 (family) • Take a step back in time and learn about the sport of falconry in Tudor times, plus meet some important birds of prey such as, a kestrel, a buzzard and a falcon.

SAT 24-MON 26 MAY VIRGIL’S ‘THE AENEID’ WEEKEND COURSE Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College St, Gloucester, GL1 2LX, 01452 731113, www.lingua.co.uk • Hosted in the Parliament Rooms of Gloucester Cathedral, this three day course covers the basics of Virgil’s great epic. Latin enthusiasts The Latin Quarter guide intermediate learners through the text to learn about the Greek capture of Troy.

SAT 24 MAY–SUN 1 JUN SHARK AWARENESS WEEK Bristol Aquarium, Bristol Harbourside, BS1 5TT, 0117 929 8929, www.bristolaquarium.co.uk •

Learn all about the secret world of these amazing creatures and what we can do to help protect them in the wild. Regular talks and feeding demonstrations. Open daily.

SAT 24 MAY–SUN 1 JUN DOWNY DUCKLING DAYS Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt.org. uk, 9.30am–5.30pm, included with admission, free to members • Go behind-the-scenes of this busy duckery to learn how the centre rears hundreds of young birds each year and see many of the fluffy ducklings, goslings and cygnets.

On the tour learn all about eggs, incubation and hatching. Just sign up to a time slot on your arrival, but arrive early to avoid disappointment.

SAT 24 MAY-SUN 7 SEP WALLACE AND GROMIT FROM THE DRAWING BOARD M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.mshed.org, £5.95 (adult)/£3.95 (child)/£4.95 (concs)/£14.95 (family) • Visitors explore the world behind the Wallace & Gromit characters and have a go at crafting their own stories.

SUN 25 MAY OPEN DAY AT REIN & SHINE Rein and Shine, 1 Buryhill Farm, Braydon, SN5 0AD, 01666 860068, www.reinandshine.co.uk • Free horse riding open days for anyone who wants to experience riding a horse. Twenty minute rides are available for children aged over 4. There are also stable tours and a chance to groom the horses. Prebooking essential. Open Days are 25 May, 14 June, 20 July, 16 August, 14 September and 4 October.

MON 26 MAY LIVING RIVERS DAY Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, MAY HALF TERM 2014

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

Moreton-in-Marsh, Glos, GL56 9AB. 01386 701441, www.batsarb. co.uk • Take a look at some of the creatures which live in Batsford’s streams and ponds and discover more about the characters of ‘The Wind in The Willows’.

MON 26 MAY TETBURY WOOLSACK RACES Tetbury Town Centre and Gumstool Hill. www.soglos.com, 10am, races commence from 2pm • Competitors enter in teams or as individuals, in a bid to finish the 240 yard course in the quickest time. Family-friendly entertainment runs throughout the day, including magic shows, a charity auction and raffle and live music.

TUE 27 MAY-SUN 1 JUN THE KIDS ARE ALRIGHT SPIEGELTENT CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL The Recreation Ground, off North Parade Road, Bath, www. bathfringe.co.uk • A programme of shows, performers and activities for all ages staged as part of the city’s alternative festival, The Bath Fringe. Attractions include The Talent Show (Tue-Fri, 4.30pm) activities in the food tent (Tue-Fri, 4.30pm) and Bath puppet theatre Fly in a Pie (at 44AD artspace, 7-8 Jun).

WED 28-FRI 30 MAY ACTIVITY CAMPS Temple Guiting School, Temple Guiting, GL54 5RW. 07793949198, www.activity-camps.com, £25 (day) Three days filled with bouncy castles, egg painting, water fights, camp building in the woods, treasure hunts, t-shirt making, face painting, kite making, dance, dodge ball and more.

THU 29 MAY TREE-MENDOUS FUN The Downs, Bristol. 0117 903 0609, mleivers@bristolzoo.org.uk, 10am3.30pm, £10 (child) • Become part of a tree tribe on a quest to discover facts and myths about trees before getting crafty and creating tree spirit puppets.

FRI 30 MAY ROBERT DOVER’S COTSWOLD OLIMPICK GAMES Dover’s Hill, Chipping Campden.

01789 8689191, www.soglos.com • This 400-year-old tradition promises a fun-packed day out for families and visitors, with a plethora of unusual sporting events, such as, throwing the sledge hammer, tug of war and spurring the barre.

FRI 30 MAY-SUN 1 JUN WYCHWOOD MUSIC FESTIVAL Cheltenham Race Course, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 4SH, 01993 772580, www. wychwoodfestival.com, £125 (weekend adult)/£60 (weekend 10-15 yrs)/£20 (weekend 5-9 yrs) • Wychwood Music Festival will be celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2014, promising live music from chart-topping and emerging talent, plus poetry, film, workshops and a host of family fun, over three jam-packed days.

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SAT 31 MAY-SUN 1 JUN VICTORIAN DISCOVERY WEEKEND Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, near Cheltenham, Gloucestshire GL54 3LJ. 01242 890256, http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworth-romanvilla • Chedworth’s 150th birthday is celebrated with all things Victorian, from Punch and Judy and children’s games, to Victorian re-enacters and historical photographs taken by Alex Burnham.

Silver bands accompany drinks and refreshments in the upper courtyard.

JUNE TUE 3-SUN 8 JUN DEADLY SCIENCE Venues across Cheltenham. 0844 880 8094, www.cheltenhamfestivals.com • Catch Steve Backshall, star of CBBC’s Deadly 60 series, talking about his “deadly” pole to pole adventures, or attend one of his talks on dinosaurs or sporting bodies. Watch a rugby player tackle a ballerina and see how their physical makeup differs, plus activities such as Lego workshops, explosions, surviving a Zombie Apocalypse and learning about astronauts in space.

SAT 7 JUN-SUN 8 JUN NATIONAL GARDEN SCHEME FESTIVAL WEEKEND Venues throughout the West Country, approximate admission £4(adult)/free(child), www.ngs. org.uk • Three private gardens throughout England and Wales open their gates to the public to raise money for UK health charities. Gardens range from some of the finest stately homes to urban mid-terrace properties, allotments and school gardens.

SAT 7-SUN 8 JUN SPORTBEAT Plock Court, Tewkesbury Road, Gloucester, GL2 9DW. 01452 234644, www.sportbeatfest.com, £39 (adult weekend)/£10 (child weekend)/£85 (family weekend)/ under 5s free • Gloucestershire’s combined sport and music festival brings together the community Shark Awareness Week, Bristol Aquarium, Sat 24 May-Sun 1 June

Eastcombe Gnome Hunt, Sat 21-Sun 22 Jun

with the country’s biggest talents.

Headlined by The Feeling.

SUN 8 JUN TUDOR LADIES Berkeley Castle, Gloucestershire GL13 9BQ. 01453 810303, www. berkeley-castle.com • have your photograph taken with a Tudor Lady as they promenade and chat.

SAT 14 JUN FRESHFORD FETE Freshford Memorial Hall Playing Field, Freshford Lane, Freshford, Bath, BA2 7UR, 01225 722145, www.freshfordvillage.com/ living-in-freshford/village-hall, 2–5pm, £1 entry • Enjoy a comedy circus show, circus skills workshops for all, bouncy castle, giant inflatable slide, animals, barbecue, bar, teas and cakes plus stalls.

SAT 14 JUN SCRAPSTORE SPECIAL SATURDAY OPENING Gloucestershire Scrapstore, City Works, GL1 4DF. 01452 504442, www.grcltd.org/home-resourcecentre, 10am-1pm • Looking for inspiring arts and crafts materials? From card to cones, paper to plastic, foam to fabrics, Gloucestershire’s Scrapstore stocks an extraordinary range of materials!

SAT 14-SUN 15 JUN FESTIVAL OF NATURE Millennium Square, Bristol Harbourside, Lloyds

Amphitheatre, Waterfront Square and Anchor Square Bristol. www.festivalofnature. org, 10am – 5pm, majority free but may require advance booking • Festival of Nature claims to be the UK’s biggest free celebration of the natural world, bringing together over 150 organisations for two days of interactive activities. Highlights include the chance to see if you’ve got what it takes to be a wildlife presenter with the BBC Natural History Unit and discover Bristol’s wildlife secrets with Avon Wildlife Trust and the Wild Bristol tent.

Also a market packed full of local produce, a free talks programme and even a pop-up planetarium, there’s something for the whole family.

SAT 14-SUN 15 JUN KINGTON LANGLEY SCARECROW FESTIVAL Kington Langley, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 5NN, www. scarecrows.biz • A family day out, with over 50 scarecrows on display and the chance to win £100 if you guess them all.

This year’s theme is ‘Musicals’.

There are children’s rides and trail, plus a free performance from ‘Nutty Noah’ on Saturday (1.30-2.30pm). Have a go at building your own scarecrow in the ‘Scrapheap Challenge’ event on Saturday, 3pm (teams of four). Refreshments include a barbeque, cream teams and the ‘Crow Bar’. There is also a Craft Fair and stalls plus live music from the Sound Stage.

SUN 15 JUN DINOTOUR Bristol to Bath Cycle Path. www. betterbybike.info • Spot the colourful dinosaurs scattered along the route and find all the clues to the treasure in this family friendly bike ride. (See Feature P4.)

MON 16–SUN 22 JUN RSPB BIG WILD SLEEP OUT RSPB reserves, camp sites and parks in the West, www.rspb.org. uk/sleepout • With only 1-in-4 children playing outdoors, this event encourages family groups to discover nature together, as children encounter the wildlife on their doorstep.

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Could you? Or someone you know Foster with us?

Here’s five reasons why YOU or someone YOU KNOW could be the perfect person to become a foster carer with the Five Rivers Fostering Service……….

One, you have room in your home Two, you want to make a difference Three, you know it’s not just a job, it’s a vocation Four, you are over 21 And five, fostering is something you were always going to do one day.

Today’s the day! To find out more Visit at www.five-rivers.org/fostering Call us on 01858 412765

‘Do something today that your future self will thank you for; become a Foster Carer with The Five Rivers Fostering Service’

Pick Your Own this summer at Great value family fun First pick your own strawberries ready NOW Open 7 days a week Primrose Vale Farm Shop Shurdington Rd, Bentham, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 4UA Please call or check online for availability Tel: 01452 863359, facebook.com/primrosevalepyo Email: info@primrosevale.com Web: www.primrosevale.com

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07/05/2014 12:31:02

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

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SAT 21 JUN SING SATURDAYS: RAISING THE ROOF AT GLOUCESTER CATHEDRAL Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College Street, Gloucester, GL1 2LX. info@gloucesterchoral.com, www. gloucesterchoral.com, 9.30am, £10 (adults)/free (under 25) • Gloucester Choral Society gives budding singers the chance of a vocal workout. These sessions are friendly and informal, and today focuses on Beethoven’s ‘Mass in C’.

SAT 21-SUN 22 JUN EASTCOMBE GNOME HUNT Eastcombe Primary School, Dr Crouches Road, Eastcombe, Gloucestershire GL6 7EA. 01453 884644, 2pm-5pm • Hunt for hidden gnomes around the village and gardens of Eastcombe and enjoy the stalls, games and cream teas.

SUN 22 JUN BRISTOL’S BIGGEST BIKE RIDE Millennium Square, Harbourside, Bristol, www.betterbybike.info, 8.30am–11am • The bike ride will take cyclists of all ages under Bristol’s iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and into the beautiful countryside beyond.

THU 26 JUN & TUE 1 JUL MARLING SCHOOL OPEN MORNINGS Marling School, Cainscross Road, Stroud, Gloucestershire, GL5 4HE. 01453 762251, www.marling.gloucs. sch.uk • Founded in 1887, Marling School is considered a high achieving 11-18 grammar school for boys.

The school’s facilities, including state-of-the-art science laboratories, have been extended from spring 2015. They now contain nine new classrooms and a spacious dining area. To see the school in operation, parents are invited to join one of its open mornings, no booking required.

JULY WED 2-SUN 13 JUL CHELTENHAM MUSIC FESTIVAL Various venues throughout Cheltenham. 0844 880 8094 www.cheltenhamfestivals.com • Promises to have something for everyone, from live events, handson activities and the chance to meet authors and TV characters.

Percussion Extravaganza Sat 5 Jul, Parabola Arts Centre, 11am12.15pm, £8 (adult)/£5 (child) • Percussionists O Duo perform a range of music with a marimba, vibraphone, glockenspiel, drum kit, African and Brazilian drums and handheld percussion.

The Family Prom with Michael Morpurgo Sun 6 Jul, Town Hall, 12.30pm, £15 (adult)/£7.50 (child) • Michael Morpurgo narrates ‘Private Peaceful’ story accompanied by English a cappella trio Coope, Boyes & Simpson.

James Mayhew Paints Carnival of The Animals Sat 12 Jul, PRIMARY TIMES

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Royal International Air Tatoo, Fairford, Fri 11-Sun 13 Jul

Sundays, Storytelling on Mondays, Jester on Tuesdays and Archery on Wednesdays.

AUGUST SAT 2-SUN 3 AUG SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE SHOW Westerleigh Road, Henfield, S/ Glos, BS37 8QZ. www.southglosshow.co.uk, 10.30am onwards, £10 (adult)/£6 (child)/free (under 5s) • Filled with music, air balloons, classic cars, fishing, golf, cycle show, kids zone and arts and crafts, there’s something for everyone at this family event.

Parabola Arts Centre, 11am-12pm, £8 (adult)/£5 (child) • Author and illustrator of the Bella Ballerina series brings a carnival of animals to life painting them live to music from Saint-Saëns’ suite.

Party in the Park Sat 12 Jul, Pittville Park, 1pm-4pm, free • Music, craft activities and refreshments with a hint of international flavour in the form of Indonesian gamelan, Surround Sound Great Animal Orchestra education project, and local choirs and theatre groups.

SAT 5 JUL DINGLEWELL SUMMER FAYRE Dinglewell Infant School, Hucclecote, Gloucester, GL3 3HS, 01452 619154, 12-2:30pm, free entry • Family event: pony rides, bouncy castles, magician, City Farm, football shoot out, tug of war, fire engine, BBQ and refreshments. Displays will include step ‘n’ style, zumba, taekwondo, Sea Cadets and Girls Brigade as well as the usual stalls.

SAT 5 JUL-SUN 6 JUL THE COTSWOLD SHOW AND FOOD FESTIVAL Bathurst Estate, Cirencester Park, Cirencester, GL7 2BU. 01285 652007, www.cotswoldshow. co.uk, 9am-6pm, £10 (adult)/£5 (child)/£28 (family)/free (under 3s) • Over 100 stallholders take part in this celebration of countryside skills and traditions.

Attractions include falconry, clay pigeon shooting, arena spectacles and dog displays. The festival is being supported by food event organiser BITE in association with food market The Cotswold Table who bring food and drink suppliers, as well as artisan potters and tableware providers, to the food element of the show.

FRI 11-SUN 13 JUL FOODIES FESTIVAL Bristol Harbourside. 0844 995 1111, www.foodiesfestival. com, 11am-8pm, £12 (one day adult)/£18 (three-day adult)/free (under 12s) • Features top chefs, including, Glynn Purnell, judge of BBC’s Great British menu and MasterChef winner Mat Follas.

This year the festival introduces a Chocolate, Bake and Preserves Theatre, BBQ Arena, Real Ale and

Cider Farm and a Feasting Tent – which promises to be the heart of the festivities. Also a Chilli Food Market tests who can handle the heat in a Chilli Eating Challenge.

FRI 11-SUN 13 JUL AIR TATTOO RAF Fairford, Kempsford, Gloucestershire GL7 4EG. www. airtattoo.com • One of the UK’s premier outdoor events returns this summer with an extravaganza of entertainment for the whole family.

Air Tattoo Pit Day Fri 11 Jul, showground opens at 10am, displays begin at 1pm, £24 (day)/ free (under 16s) • Extra pit stop for this summer offering access to the Red Arrows team, aircraft arrivals, rehearsals, debut of a special Red Arrows flypast and much more.

Royal International Air Tattoo Sat 12-Sun 13 Jul, showground opens at 7.30am, displays begin at 10am, £34 (day)/free (under 16s) • Large military air show featuring displays from the Red Arrows and held in support of the RAF Charitable Trust. Chances to meet the crews, get close to the aircrafts and enjoy entertainment including the Techno Zone, an interactive showcase designed especially for youngsters, and the Adrenalin Zone.

SAT 12 JUL STANWAY FETE Stanway House, Stanway, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 5PQ. 2pm-5pm, £1.50 (adult)/free (children under 16) • A traditional summer fete consisting of a brass band, Morris men, teas, stalls and games.

SUN 13-WED 16 JUL FESTIVAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY Berkeley Castle, Gloucestershire GL13 9BQ. 01453 810303, www. berkeley-castle.com • A week of events in conjunction with St Mary’s Church and Dr Jenner’s House utilising finds by Bristol University on the three sites over the last 10 years.

FROM SAT 19 JUL SUMMER ACTIVITES Berkeley Castle, Gloucestershire GL13 9BQ. 01453 810303, www. berkeley-castle.com • During the school holidays there’s something on everyday: Arts & Crafts on

SAT 23-MON 25 AUG TREEFEST & LOVE FOOD FESTIVAL Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8QS. 03000 680400, www.lovefoodfestival. com, 10am-5pm, £15 (adult)/£12 (concs)/free (under 18s) • Love Food Festival teams up with Forestry Commission’s National Arboretum to celebrate the link between nature and food.

ONGOING EVENTS ONGOING OTTER TALK Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt. org.uk, 11.30am & 3pm, included in admission • Meet Slimbridge’s friendly family of otters, Flo, Minnie and Ha Ha and hear a talk as they tuck into a tasty fish supper.

ONGOING LANDROVER SAFARIS Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Wildflower & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt.org. uk, weekends throughout the summer holidays, £5 (adult)/£3 (child) • Visitors are taken out across the reserve in a special covered trailer and can see wild birds, animals, wild flowers and much more.

ONGOING CANOE SAFARIS Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Wildflower & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt. org.uk, daily throughout summer, from 11am-4pm • Keep an eye out for water voles, ducks and dragonflies on this one kilometre wetland trail.

LISTINGS BY ALEX HURLEY AND CASSANDRA REGAN

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festival fever!

Get your flip flops (or wellies) ready, says Beth Middleton. The West’s festival and outdoor show organisers are offering more for families than ever before.

T

side treasure hunt, lots of music and stalls and Bristol’s biggest bike ride, with 8,000 families attending..

E: info@biggreenweek.com W: www.biggreenweek.com

he long awaited summer is cautiously edging over Britain’s countryside. Cue festival season, a great, affordable way for families to experience the West Country and really make the most of the sunshine. And what is summer about if not getting out there, trying new experiences and making new memories with the rest of the family? To that end, we’ve pulled together a selection of child-friendly events so smear on that sun cream (or, if more appropriate, put on that kagoule) and become a part of Britain’s great festival tradition.

Clockwise from top right: Cheltenham Science Festival (pic. Anna Lythgoe); Bristol Mayor George Ferguson with festival-goers at Big Green Week; Children’s theatre (The Frog & The Princess) at Salisbury Arts Festival; and Chilling at Womad

SALISBURY ARTS FESTIVAL Fri 23 May-Sat 7 Jun With a lively mix of comedy, film, workshops, music, dance and theatre, it’s no wonder Salisbury Arts Fest has been referred to as “one of the most respected festivals in the UK”. The festival brings to life children’s classics such as Pinocchio, the Princess and the Frog and George’s Marvellous Medicine.

T: 01722 321744 W: www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk

WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL Fri 30 May-Sun 1 Jun This “laid back, homely and family-friendly” festival is celebrating its 10th birthday this year, and there are dozens of reasons for you to celebrate with it. There’s an array of music, comedy and workshops for everyone, while the children can indulge in kids’ literature, fairground rides and children’s entertainers.

T: 01993 772580 W: www.wychwoodfestival.com CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL OF SCIENCE Tue 3-Sun 8 Jun Cheltenham boasts an impressive line-up of festivals every year and the festival of science stands out as one of the most unique and exciting in the West. Enjoy learning alongside your little ones at Kaboom! The science of explosions, create a Lego robot and much more.

T: 0844 880 8094 W: www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/science/ LET’S ROCK BRISTOL Fri 6-Sun 8 Jun Promises to be the ultimate ‘80s festival! With names like Ba-

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nanarama, Tony Hadley and Boney M, this is the place for fans who were either there first time round or who just want to discover what the fuss was all about. Look out, too, for the big top mania circus, funfair rides and children’s entertainment.

E: info@letsrockbristol.co.uk W: www.letsrockbristol.co.uk BRISTOL FESTIVAL OF NATURE Sat 14-Sun 15 Jun Join the 12,000 people that visit every year to celebrate Bristol’s wildlife. This year, get lost amongst the stars at the portable planetarium and enjoy the excited flutter of hundreds of butterflies in the pop up butterfly garden.

The BBC Natural History Unit will also be there, to see if you have what it takes to be a wildlife presenter.

W: visitbristol.co.uk/things-to-do/ bristol-festival-of-nature-p1484133 BIG GREEN WEEK Sat 14-Tue 22 Jun As the “UK’s festival of eco ideas, art and entertainment” the BIG Green week consists of over 150 events. This includes a harbour-

CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL OF MUSIC Wed 2-Sun 13 Jul A rich programme featuring many musical genres, headlined by internationally renowned performers including Tony Banks of Genesis and Nicola Benedetti, as well as up and coming talent, all framed by the beautiful city of Cheltenham. Children will love many of the events including the Percussion Extravaganza and James Mayhew Paints the Carnival of Animals.

T: 0844 880 8094 W: www.cheltenhamfestivals. com/music WOMAD Thu 24-Sun 27 Jul Immerse yourself in the joy of diverse cultures at “the worlds festival” and enjoy talent from, unsurprisingly, all around the globe. Turn your hand to beat boxing, graffiti, t-shirt making or circus skills. Seeing as children under thirteen go free it’s a win win situation for the entire family.

E: info@womad.org W: www.womad.co.uk SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE SHOW Sat 2-Sun 3 Aug Farm show meets festival at South Gloucester Show with shooting, fishing, gold competitions and a car exhibition. The music is all locally sourced, as is the food and, for families, the Kid’s Zone offers safe, interactive entertainment.

T: 01454 222959 W: www.southglosshow.co.uk PRIMARY TIMES

07/05/2014 12:06:22

ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi Celebrate Penguins at Birdland Penguin Week, Sat 24 MaySun 1 Jun It’s Penguin Week at Bourton-on-theWater’s Birdland for May Half Term. Penguin fans will be able to put their knowledge to the test with a fun quiz and enjoy special talks about the ‘waddle of penguins’ which includes the only King Penguins on display in England and also a comical gang of Humboldts.

Feeding displays take place every day at 11am and 2.30pm and you could win the chance to step inside ‘Penguin Shore’ and help the head keeper feed the residents.

Look out for specialist talks and bird feeding each day: kids could become a perch for a parrot or a landing pad for an owl. Climb inside the tortoise pen and go face to face with a snake at the meet the keeper session. Close encounters for all the family!

Ffi: Birdland Park & Gardens Rissington Road, Bourton-on-theWater, Glos, GL54 2BN. T: 01451 820480 E: info@birdland.co.uk W: www.birdland.co.uk

Every brick counts!

2

e Young Engineers ‘Beyond the Brick’ Lego Exhibition and Workshops, 15-20 July ‘Beyond the Brick’ is a collection of LEGO activities for children of all ages, organised in association with (and held at) the University of South Wales City Campus. Things for children to see and do include: • Fantastic LEGO model displays • Regular LEGO workshops held every day • Voting for your favourite LEGO model • Fairy Bricks Lego Children’s Charity • ‘Build your own’ competition • LEGO building play area • Mini Figure hunt competition • Watch LEGO films • Lego art • Photo opportunities • ‘Draw and colour your favourite model’ section • Refreshments • LEGO shop • and much, much more!

Ffi: W: www.beyondthebrick.org.uk Fa: www.facebook.com/groups/beyondthebrick

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Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

Talk PANTS The NSPCC’s ‘Underwear Rule’ campaign provides parents of children aged 5 to 11 with resources to talk to Alex CBeebies’ them about staying the supports Winter safe from abuse. message PANTS It’s vital that children are equipped to recognise the wrong kind of behaviour and keep themselves safe. We must help them to understand that it’s not right for anyone to touch the places that are private to them, no matter who they are.

The Underwear Rule is an important part of this process and is already striking a chord with some parents but the NSPCC urges more to get involved.

There are supportive materials for parents and the NSPCC has developed an easy-to-remember guide – Talk PANTS – that helps children understand the key points of the rule.

Privates are private.

Always remember your body belongs to you No means no Talk about secrets that upset you Speak up, someone can help Free supportive materials for parents are available now online.

Ffi: W: www.nspcc.org.uk/underwear

Just Wizard!

Promenade Productions, Cheltenham’s popular amateur dramatic society, celebrates its 30th Anniversary year with a trip ‘over the rainbow’ in the much loved ‘The Wizard of Oz’.

This version promises to be different from the 1939 Judy Garland film.

The story begins with a tornado that whisks Dorothy off to a magical land where she embarks on a journey following the ‘yellow brick road’ to find a wizard that can help her get back home to Kansas and give her new friends – the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Lion what they most want.

This production has a large cast, professional scenery and full orchestra. The production team is headed by husband and wife team John Pannett and Heather Newman. A great end of term treat!

Ffi: The Wizard of Oz The Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham, Thu 10-Sun 13 Jul, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm matinees (Sat & Sun), £8-£14. On sale now at theatrical costume retailer Showcase T: 01242 224144 to book your seats now.

Family luxury Enjoy a luxury stay in Devon and Cornwall, home of the cream tea. The five Richardson hotels in Torquay, Falmouth, Fowey and Padstow, including Torquay’s Grosvenor Hotel, offer you the cream of Devon and Cornwall.

All enjoy beautiful waterside settings, sumptuous child friendly accommodation, and excellent AA-rosette restaurants.

The hotels are perfectly placed for visiting many fun attractions such as Flambards, the Eden project or Paignton Zoo to name but a few.

If it’s a more relaxing stay you’re after, enjoy the spa facilities and indoor pools. The hotels’ commitment to offering mouth-watering food remains high and their talented teams of chefs work hard to produce delicious menus, featuring the best local produce, whether you want to treat yourself to fine dining in the restaurants or enjoy a more relaxed dining experience in the brassiere and lounge bars, you have the choice Ffi: Grosvenor Hotel Belgrave Road, Torquay TQ2 5HG E: reservations@ richardsonhotels.co.uk W: www.grosvenorhoteltorquay.co.uk

Wild and medieval!

On Sunday 18 May, Cardiff Castle features an Edwardian picnic with a Wild West theme. Take your picnic, spread out your rug and get ready to recapture your childhood with an amazing game of cowboys and Indians. ‘Shoot out’ shows, story-telling, a bed of nails and knifethrowing displays are promised as the action takes visitors back to the era of Buffalo Bill himself, who actually staged a spectacular in Cardiff’s Sophia Gardens in 1904. So get along in costume and whipcrack away!

Returning on Sat 21 & Sun 22 Jun is Cardiff Castle’s Joust Weekend, an all-action medieval adventure. The castle is transformed into a medieval showground, with the sound of clashing swords, splintering lances and galloping hooves. The Knights of Royal England bring back their brand of hair-raising horseback stunts. So, get along in costume, enjoy the spectacle and test your skills at archery, juggling and sword swirling. Under 5s free, and book in advance to save pounds.

Ffi: W: www.cardiffcastle.com

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Adver tising Feature

Happy 150th, Chedworth!

The chance discovery of Roman mosaics by a local gamekeeper and his ferret led to the excavation of Chedworth Roman Villa 150 years ago. You are invited to celebrate this memorable discovery at the Victorian Discovery Weekend on Sat 31 May to Sun 1 June.

The villa’s discovery and the first opening to the public will be recreated, just as it would have happened 150 years ago. Cirencester and Cheltenham silver bands will be setting the mood while visitors enjoy drinks and refreshments in the upper courtyard. Children can play Victorian games and watch Punch and Judy shows. A historical photographer, Alex Burnham, will be there, taking pictures with Victorian cameras for your family album. Victorian re-enactors will be around to entertain, and the discovery scene of the Roman site will be re-created with theatrical sketches.

These grand celebrations will be followed by the popular Gladiator arena event on the Father’s Day weekend Sat 14–Sun 15 June, when Legio II Augusta re-enactors take on any dads wishing to test their strength and Roman fighting skills.

Young archaeology enthusiasts will have a treat of a two-week Archaeology Festival at the Villa between Mon 14 and Sun 27 Jul. The new Discovery dome will run planetarium style shows, archaeologists and conservators are at hand and Legio II Augusta returns for a weekend of re-enactments. Be the first to know the exciting news and stories from the Roman Villa throughout the year by checking its website and facebook page.

• Ffi Chedworth Roman Villa W: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworth Fa: NTChedworthRomanVilla

Adver tising Feature

Motoring wonders Cotswold Motoring Museum - Toy Collection - Gift Shop - Home of TV’s Brum - Children’s Play Area In the beautiful setting of Bourtonon-the-Water you’ll find a hidden gem, the Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection. A popular tourist destination, Bourton is a great place to visit for a day trip, with plenty to see and do around the village.

The Museum houses over 50 vehicles including cars, motorcycles, pedal cars and caravans displayed in seven galleries. It is a truly fascinating journey through the 20th century, overflowing with vintage vehicles, hundreds of original enamel signs and an intriguing collection of motoring curiosities. It’s also home to TV’s superhero car Brum, whose adventures start and end at the museum, and can now be found there every day.

The wonderful toy collection also represents the Museum’s passion for travel. From old favourites from year’s gone past to more modern items, you will be enchanted by the great display of toys and games. After your visit, don’t miss the gift shop, packed with pocket money treats and collectables including Brum souvenirs.

Exhibition - Glad all Over: Remembering 1964 The museum is owned by CSMA Club, which has supported civil service employees since 1923. This year’s special exhibition takes a nostalgic look back to 1964. On display will be the collection’s 1964 Zephyr and two 1964 Royal Enfield motorcycles, as well as photographs, posters and songs from that iconic year. The Cotswold Motoring Museum is open 10am-6pm seven days a week, until 7 December 2014.

• Ffi Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection T: 01451 821255 W: www.cotswoldmotoringmuseum.co.uk

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Adver tising Feature

Marling School ‘Outstanding’ in every category Founded in 1887, Marling School is a high achieving 11-18 grammar school for boys offering a vibrant academic environment where students thrive. Its recent Ofsted report (November 2013) highlighted that, “Students make excellent progress and their attainment is well above average”. During their visit, Ofsted recognised the great appetite for learning demonstrated by the students and noted that their highly positive approach to study ensures that classrooms are excellent places to learn. The teaching is described as outstanding and extremely effective, with teachers having high expectations and providing great freedom and exciting opportunities in lessons.

Students at Marling School benefit from excellent facilities, including state-of-the-art science laboratories and, from spring 2015, a new £3.7m building with nine classrooms and a light, spacious dining hall. To see the school in operation parents are invited to join one of its Open Mornings on Thursday 26 June or Tuesday 1 July 2014. No booking required. For regular news and updates of events from Marling School, visit the website, ‘like’ them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.

• Ffi Marling School T: Admissions Officer, 01453 762251 W: www.marling.gloucs.sch.uk Fa: facebook.com/marlingschool Tw: @MarlingSchool

Adver tising Feature

Give it a go at Roses Shows that bring literature to life are always popular, no matter what the audience, and this half term sees Hugless Douglas bound straight from the page of David Melling’s best-selling book onto The Roses’ stage. On Thursday 29 May, young fans of the huggable bear can see their favourite story played out in an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and high energy storytelling. Ideal for children aged between 3 and 7, this is the perfect opportunity to introduce little ones to the magic of live theatre, or give seasoned young theatregoers an unforgettable half term treat.

The magic doesn’t end there, however. As part of The Roses’ Give It A Go deal, families who buy tickets to see ‘Hugless Douglas’ can also buy tickets to see Constellations (pictured), on Tuesday 17 June at 6.30pm, for just £2.50 each.

‘Constellations’ is an extraordinarily magical dance theatre piece specifically aimed at children aged 4+ and their families. Instead of bringing literature to life, Constellations is inspired by the brilliantly abstract work of artist Joan Miro and fills the stage with vivid colours, shapes and movement. The whole family will be entranced both by the sheer physicality of the dancers and the amazing visual effects.

The Give It A Go scheme is specifically designed to encourage audiences to try something new, and only shows that The Roses are confident audiences will love are paired together. So, if you are planning on coming to see Hugless Douglas, why not give Constellations a go too? You will love it just as much.

• Ffi W: www.rosestheatre.org

PRIMARY TIMES

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07/05/2014 11:38:52

Around the

world

on Father’s Day

As children prepare to treat their fathers this Father’s Day, Alex Hurley says families could look at the traditions in other countries for new ideas.

W

hile Dad will almost certainly be delighted if the kids serve him breakfast in bed this Father’s Day, he may suffer a twinge of well hidden disappointment unwrapping yet another pair of ‘super dad’ socks. Children might want to look to other cultures for inspiration to make this year’s Father’s Day on Sunday 15 June that extra bit special.

Following (roughly) in the footsteps of Jules Verne’s ‘Around the World . . .’ hero Phineas Fogg, we travel to Germany, where dads entertain themselves on ‘Männertag’ by embarking on an extensive hike, hauling wagons filled with food, beer and wine.

However, this is probably (and rightly) beyond the capabilities of most children in this country to organise so we head east to Romania, which was until relatively recently the only country in the European Union not to hold an official Father’s Day. But now the second Sunday in May is set aside for

A canna flower is a traditional Father’s Day gift in Thailand 20

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Canoe Safari at Slimbrid ge

dads and Romanians believe the day should showcase responsible fathers, encouraging the menfolk to step up proudly to their parenting role.

Leaping continents we discover that India celebrates the day by exploring the true meaning of being a father. Schools and community groups, especially in the larger cities, set out to inspire children to pay respect to and take care of their dads.

On to Thailand, where fathers share their special day with the King’s birthday, 5 December, a public holiday allowing the family a day off. Traditionally, Thai children used to present their dads with a flower called the ‘canna’, which signifies masculinity, although sadly this tradition has faded and Thai people now usually wear a colour associated with the King.

Further north, the people of Taiwan celebrate the Baba holiday in appropriately 21st century fashion by sending fathers e-cards wishing them eternal peace, health and joy from the president of the

Wetlands Centre

republic.

Father’s day falls on the eighth day of the eighth month, chosen because eight in mandarin Chinese sounds much like ‘bà’, meaning ‘papa’.

Across the Pacific Ocean, Brazil blazes with all-you-can-eatbarbeques called ‘churrascos’, welcoming the whole family to applaud dad’s fathering skills, not to mention his abilities at the grill, as they tuck into a feast of beef, pork, chicken and sausages.

From there we head to what could be described as the parent of Father’s Day itself, the USA, where the story goes, one Sonora Smart Dodd, daughter of an American Civil War veteran, celebrated the day in her Washington State home town in 1910 and campaigned for the idea to spread nationally. Fifty years later, in 1966, it was declared a national celebration by President Johnson.

Back home in England, it remains an all but forgotten gesture for children to wear a rose: the tradition has a bittersweet flavour

as a white rose signifies respect for a living father while a red rose honours a deceased one.

In addition to a gift or a symbol, there are lots of events geared towards father’s day in the West, such as at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm near Bristol, where Dad could be King of the Jungle for the day (see website for downloadable £5 admission voucher). Alternatively, you could take him on a canoe safari at Slimbridge Wetland Centre, where visitors discover water voles, ducks and dragonflies and much more, while roaming the waterways themselves.

But, you may decide to follow a well-respected tradition of your own, after all, dads can never have enough socks.

Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm: T: 01275 852606 E: info@noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk W: www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk Slimbridge Wetlands Centre: T: 01453 891223 E: enquiries@wwt.org.uk W: www.wwt.org.uk Father’s Day at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm

PRIMARY TIMES

07/05/2014 12:08:02

Classifieds Art & Crafts

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

Party Ideas

• Keepsakes • Gifts • Decopatch • Paint your own ceramics • Partyroom 5 Cossack Square, Nailsworth, Stroud GL6 0DB Tel: 01455 835043 www.paint-a-pot.co.uk email enquiries@paint-a-pot.co.uk

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Give your daughter the VIP Treatment

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Children’s classes Sundays 8.30-1pm Mon/Thurs 7-8pm. Parent/Toddler, Beginner, Improver groups, ASA Badge Scheme. ASA-qualified friendly teachers, small groups, Adult learn-to-swim and Improvers Thurs 8pm

Holidays

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ENROLLING NOW FOR GYMNASTICS AND TRAMPOLINE COURSES FOR PRE-SCHOOL/JUNIORS AND TEENAGERS 1-1 REBOUND THERAPY SESSIONS BIRTHDAY PARTIES AND FUN SESSIONS HOLIDAY FUN SESSIONS Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10.00 am – 3.00pm

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Tel Marian/Karen 07887 422232/ 07810 296130 email bigwaves@yahoo.co.uk www.bigwaveswimschool.co.uk

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Performance

To reach 39,000 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

10% off a giant cupcake when you book your party with the advert PRIMARY TIMES

classifieds G-Whitsun14.indd 21

Or Ellie 0117 934 3737 or email eleanor.pipe@b-nm.co.uk MAY HALF TERM 2014

21

07/05/2014 15:49:06

Hello Kids!

Thank you so much for the lovely pictures you send me.

The standard is always high so please try again if your entry didn’t get published.

This summer I have teamed up with our friends at City Sightseeing, Bristol, who have generously offered a family ticket to the five lucky winners of our art competition.

Inspired by the beautiful views of the city, our subject next issue is ‘A red open top bus in my favourite Bristol location’.

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 16 June.

Arty Barty It was especially difficult to judge the picture selection this issue on the subject of ‘an octopus’s garden’. Well done to the winning artist who has earned an annual family pass to Bristol Aquarium. Runners up receive a fun book from the editor’s cupboard.

Hermione Lloyd Bussell, 8, St Sampsons CE Junior School, and Ursula Lloyd Bussell, 6, St t Sampsons Infan e School, Crickladm A joint entry fro these talented sisters, who use mixed media to create an ne entertaining sce in enjoyably muted colours.

Have fun!

Arty

NB. PARENTS AND GUARDIANS: Please read our new entry conditions at www.primarytimes.net/ gloucestershire/home-intro/ tcs

RUNNER UP

Satya Putreau, 8, Holy Trinity School, Bradley Stoke Satya has created a beautifully expressive octopus, complete with details such as treasure, bushes and friendly fish in this magical composition.

RUNNER UP

Amy Newell, 10, Manor C of E Primary School, Bristol I love the fishy sculpture portrait that Amy’s Octopus has created in its garden. This picture shows lots of wit and promise.

WINNER!

Patrick Smith, 9, Sefton Park Junior School, Bristol What a fantastically evocative shipwreck Patrick has drawn, while his octopus is splendidly real.

A fateful Quirk Alex Hurley and Cassanda Regan with the new releases.

Body beautiful A discovery book packed full of lift-up flaps, My Body takes primary school-aged children through the fundamentals of the human body, explaining clearly and humorously how its systems work together.

Illustrator Joelle Dreidemy not only brings the inner workings of our bodies to life with her vibrant, detailed drawings but also portrays some of the more sensitive things they do in a light-hearted yet informative way. There can be no better introduction to the human anatomy for children than this volume, which manages to encompass a huge spectrum of information in very limited space. It’s probably not bed time reading but parents will enjoy sitting with their children and filling in some of the details that the authors haven’t managed to include. (Cassandra Regan) My Body Bloomsbury Discovery, £9.99, Bloomsbury, www.bloomsbury.com/uk

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The second in this series sees the Quirks settle into ordinary town Normal, the 27th town the family have moved to in the 10 years since Molly and Penelope were born. They hope they can keep their family secrets hidden but their efforts to fit in are complicated by their own magical powers and the snooping Mrs DeVille. For example, the ability of Mum, Bree, to make people believe anything she tells them might work on her customers, but can she use her powers on Mrs DeVille?

The Quirks have to work together as a family to keep their magic hidden, creating an enjoyable read not just for children, but for adults who share the book with them. Children as young as five will fall in love with Erin Soderberg’s characters making this book a transitional platform towards more advanced reading and learning.

(Alex Hurley) The Quirks: In Circus Quirkus Erin Soderberg, £5.99, Bloomsbury, www.bloomsbury.com

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