Glos Back to School 2015

in Gloucestershire Issue 138 1 September-22 October 2015

Also Children’s Cancer Awareness Week Self defence Bristol Doors Open

Ever yman is

awesome

Bags of excitement this autumn at Cheltenham’s fun-filled theatre.

Page 4.

Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

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BACK TO SCHOOL 2015

your five-day meal plan Monday

ADULT: Kellogg’s Corn Flakes with milk, almonds and cinnamon

Tuesday

ADULT: Kellogg’s Bran Flakes, milk and banana

Wednesday Thursday Friday

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*Pollitt et al (1982) Fasting and cognitive performance. Journal Psychiatric Research 17: 169-174.

or years it’s been dubbed the most important meal of the day. So why do so many of us treat breakfast as a time to shovel down the same foods each morning? Or view it as a brekkie to be grabbed on the go as we run for the bus or train?

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PRIMARY TIMES

21/08/2015 11:12:45

The start of the school year is a momentous occasion for every school child, as the long summer days recede and the challenges of the school curriculum kick in again.

Happily, there are a host of events and activities that can complement and encourage this change in gear, from Doors Open Day a short journey away in Bristol (P.20) to the wealth of events in our Roundabout and Theatre sections (P.11 and P.8 respectively). Elsewhere we explore the fantastic work that childhood cancer charities carry out, as Child Cancer Awareness Month rolls out this September (P.6).

Finally, we discover how self defence classes can help the family take a proactive approach to life’s dangers (P.16).

the editor

138 rshire Issue er 2015 in Glouceste -22 Octob 1 September

THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P11 PINBOARD P17 ADVERTISING FEATURES P18 CLASSIFIEDS P21 PUPILS’ PAGE P22 FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT P6 Esther Morrison discovers the good work of childhood cancer charities.

SAFE FROM HARM P16 How families can benefit from self-defence.

OPEN WIDE! P20 Bristol’s public buildings welcome all.

Also r Children’s Cance Week Awareness ce Self defen Open Bristol Doors

PRIMARY TIMES IS NOW AVAILABLE AS A FREE APP Everyman is

awesome Theatre

itement Bags of exc umn at this aut ’s Cheltenham . theatre fun-lled Page 4.

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

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

Primary Times in Gloucestershire Bristol News and Media, Temple Way, Bristol BS2 OBY. More information at www.primarytimes.net

Editor

Commercial director

Advertising

Distribution

Design Production Sub-editor/proof reader Main office

Mike Gartside mike.gartside@localworld.co.uk Abbie Grant abbie.grant@localworld.co.uk 0117 934 3626 Caroline Stretton caroline.stretton@localworld.co.uk 0117 934 3737 Freya McTernan freya.mcternan@localworld.co.uk 0117 934 3076 Juliet Hobbs 01242 278053 juliet.hobbs@localworld.co.uk Cath Evans, Mike Gartside Emma Gorton, Ruth Wood Eric Blair/Ellen White 0117 934 3000

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in Primary, Junior, Infant and Middle Schools throughout the former Avon area, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. It is also available by subscription at £10 per year.

Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions, and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically biased material whatsoever. We also undertake not to carry any advertising which we would consider to be offensive to young families or harmful to the best interests of young children.

While we make every effort to ensure information published is accurate, readers are encouraged to check details of all events in advance and neither 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 Bristol News & Media.

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!

Cotswold Farm Park – One child free with paying adult Samurai Martial Arts - Free trial class Pauline Quirke Academy - Free open day Magicland - 10% off entry voucher TV’s Adam Henson at Cotswold Farm Park

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any Gloucestershire Youth Theatre Comp

There’s something for everyone at Cheltenham’s fun-filled Everyman Theatre.

Everyman is

awesome T

he Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, has a sack full of seasonal and festive treats for you during the autumn term. Following the runaway success of Sleeping

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Beauty last year, the annual pantomime is back again with your all-time favourite show, Cinderella. Tweedy the Clown bounces back to the theatre with even more thrills, spills and

laughs, joined once more by William Elliott, the resident, largerthan-life Dame. So dust off those ball gowns and polish your glass slippers as Cinderella opens on Friday 27 November and runs until Sunday 10 January, including a relaxed performance on January 5th January.

Running in the Studio Theatre, alongside the pantomime, is The Crocodile’s Gift. Presented by Red Dog Theatre Company this is a beautiful Cinderella-style story from Indonesia, featuring a heroine called Damura. With its delightful twists and turns, it’s perfect for children under seven, who will be captivated by the story of a little girl sent down to the river to do the washing, and who loses her stepmother’s best sarong.

Although dismayed, she is surprised to find help is at hand if only she is brave enough to accept it.

Exciting adventures follow, and at last it seems Damura will find the happiness she deserves. Or will her jealous stepmother‘s tricks ruin everything? The Crocodile’s Gift runs from Friday 4– Thursday 24 December with a The Crocodile’s Gift

relaxed performance on Saturday 5 December.

As well as shows, the Everyman Theatre offers opportunities for children to learn theatre and performing skills for themselves through sessions run by the Gloucestershire Youth Theatre Company (GYTC). The company employs trained theatre professionals to deliver high quality performance training. Groups run throughout the school term.

Parents can contact the group via the email below.

Younger children can sign up to EveryKid, fun-filled workshops for 4 to 7 year olds focusing on having fun with drama, art and music. Participants play drama games and make new friends from across the county. For more information, phone or email Camille Cowe (details below). To book tickets or find out more about what’s happening at the Everyman Theatre visit the website.

The Everyman Theatre W: www.everymantheatre.org.uk Gloucestershire Youth Theatre Company (GYTC) E: gytc-youththeatre@hotmail. com.

Camille Cowe T: 01242 512515 x231 E: camille.cowe@everymantheatre.org.uk PRIMARY TIMES

25/08/2015 14:38:04

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PRIMARY TIMES

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21/08/2015 11:15:37

Lola’s story demonstrates how cancer charities support those suffering from cancer and their families.

fight

Fight the good

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Esther Morrison looks at ways schools, children and parents can help raise money to support the cause.

T

en children and young people in the UK are diagnosed with cancer every day and it is the most common cause of death by disease among children and young people. A harsh reality, but the past decades have seen dramatic improvements in the outlook for children diagnosed with cancer, as statistics from cancer charity Children with Cancer UK demonstrate. Whereas 50 years ago three quarters of children diagnosed with cancer died, now more than three quarters survive. Moreover, the number of survivors of childhood cancer, currently estimated at 35,000, is growing by around 1,300 a year.

There can be little doubt that advancements in treatment and increases in survival rates have been significantly aided by the many charities that work hard to campaign for the cause. One of the ways in which these charities do this is by getting involved in Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, which takes place in September. Characterised by its gold ribbon, sold in various venues across the UK, this international campaign aims to promote the cause and raise money to go towards helping those who suffer from the disease.

Lola’s story demonstrates how the work of another cancer charity, CLIC Sargent, supports those suffering from cancer and their families.

Lola is from Gloucester and was 6

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“Increases in survival rates have been significantly aided by the many charities that work hard to campaign for the cause.” four when she was diagnosed with lymphoblastic leukaemia. She had to begin chemotherapy immediately, which made her weak, and she began to lose her hair. CLIC Sargent provided Lola and her family with one of their key workers, Jane, who offered emotional support and practical advice the whole way through Lola’s treatment.

Jane was particularly valuable to the family when Lola started school and was teased for her hair loss; she was able to advise Lola’s mum, Lucy, to contact the school and organise a visit from the play specialist at the hospital. Together, Jane and the play

specialist explained Lola’s illness to each of the classes at school. Lucy says that once the other children understood Lola’s condition and how it affected her health, the teasing stopped overnight and she became a hero: “Jane was amazing. She had years of experience and she was very understanding, but not overemotional about it all. She was a real rock for me, always answering my questions and always being right.”

Lola is now nine and in remission from cancer. She loves going to school and hopes to one day become a doctor.

So how can children and schools get involved in Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and raise money and help support families like Lola’s?

CLIC Sargent has a number of initiatives to help others raise money.

The most significant is the £170 Challenge. £170 is the grant that the charity gives to families after a child is diagnosed with cancer to help with unexpected costs such as parking and petrol. There is no specific way in which people have to raise this sum and they are encouraged to be as creative as possible in doing so. CLIC Sargent is also challenging schools to take part in their Around the School in 10-Pence Pieces lesson plan, where schools try to collect enough 10-pence pieces to encircle their school building, while also practising teamwork and mathematical skills along the way.

Another great fundraising activ-

ity for children is the Readathon.

Running throughout the year, this is an initiative set up to encourage children to read for pleasure while raising money for their seriously ill peers. The basic principle is that schools work with pupils to set a goal of how many books they will read within a certain timeframe and the children are then sponsored to read the books. The money raised is donated to four charities: CLIC Sargent, Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, ReadWell and Together for Short Lives. Schools will also receive a Book Clubs voucher worth 20 percent of their sponsorship total to go towards the school library. Not only does this raise money for worthwhile causes, children can also practise key reading skills while being encouraged to read for pleasure.

As well as these initiatives, of course, there are always the classic ways of raising a bit of cash. Both CLIC Sargent and Children with Cancer UK offer tips and recipes to help organise the perfect cake sale.

They also provide information on organising sponsored races, fancy dress events and mini marathons.

It really is about having fun in the name of a good cause. Happy fundraising!

CLIC Sargent W: www.clicsargent.org.uk Children with Cancer UK W: www.childrenwithcancer.org.uk PRIMARY TIMES

25/08/2015 11:59:35

HMC/SOH Co-Educational Day And Boarding School 3 To 18 Years

• Rendcomb College is an independent day school for boys and girls from nursery onwards • Warm and nurturing family environment • Set in 230 acres of spectacular Cotswold parkland • Small class sizes • Excellent transport links • Bursary provision available Register your interest for 2016 entry at admissions@rendcomb.gloucs.sch.uk for more details Rendcomb College, Near Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 7HA

01285 832306 WWW.RENDCOMBCOLLEGE.ORG.UK

©LW

Calling all thrillseekers! Tighten your harnesses for Mojo Active’s brand new, purpose-built high ropes adventure course opening mid September.

e r u t n e v d a High e v i t c A o j at Mo Swing through the trees using rickety bridges, traverse nets, organ pipes, islands in the sky and zip wires as part of the exciting 15-stage course.

■ Family fun/individuals

■ Team building exercises ■ Corporate events ■ Educational/school activities ■ Sports clubs and groups ■ Stag and hen parties ■ Children’s parties

The high ropes adventure is the latest addition to a range of activities that include a 400m military assault course, 4x4 driving, low ropes course, tunnel maze, climbing wall, archery range, den building and team orienteering.

Open from 10am to 5pm weekends and school holidays. Book your 1.5 hour session online at www.mojoactive.co.uk

Mojo Active, Over Court Farm, Over Lane, Almondsbury, Bristol BS32 4DF T 01454 660075 M 07770 925022 E info@mojoactive.co.uk www.mojoactive.co.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

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21/08/2015 11:17:28

FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS ★ GLOUCESTER, CHELTENHAM, STROUD & BEYOND

GLOUCESTERSHIRE BACON THEATRE Dean Close School, Shelbourne Road, Cheltenham GL51 6HE. 01242 258002, www. bacontheatre.co.uk Back to Broadway Sat 17 Oct, 7.30pm, £18/£16 plus booking fee • An all-singing, all-dancing journey through the magical world of musical theatre. Featuring popular songs from a diverse range of shows, including ‘Circle of Life’ from ‘The Lion King’ and ‘Defying Gravity’ from ‘Wicked’.

The Pantaloons present: Macbeth Fri 30 Oct, 7.30pm, £14/£12 plus booking fee • Taking their cues from film noir, gangland Britain and even the clowning tradition, critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company present Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ as you’ve never seen it before.

Featuring femmes fatale, highspeed chases, killer lines and three very weird sisters.

CIRENCESTER Near the Mitsubishi Garage, Gloucester Road, Stratton, Cirencester GL7 2JY. 0845 4597469, www.giffordscircus.com Giffords Circus Fri 4-Mon 14 Sep, 6pm (Fri & Mon-Fri), 11am/1pm/5.30pm (Sat), 11am/2.30pm/5pm (Sun & Sun 13), 11am/2.30pm/7.30pm (Sat), 1pm (Mon), £14-£22 • This quirky touring circus is set in a Victorian “lunar” fairground run by the mysterious and magical Ordoroff.

Despite his best efforts, the circus master struggles to maintain control of his troupe of dancing gymnasts, clowns and strange animals.

EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www. everymantheatre.org.uk Hands Up for Jonny Wilkinson’s Right Boot! Wed 23-Sat 26 Sep, 7.45pm (Wed-Fri)/2pm and 5pm

The Amazing Bubble Man, Tue 27 Oct, Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury

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(Sat only), £10.50/£9 • It’s the Rugby World Cup 2015 and three ardent rugby fans find themselves arguing as to which is the greatest moment in the game’s history when the arrival of a mysterious stranger puts disagreements on hold. This is a fast-paced comedy involving song and physical theatre: prepare to travel back in time and revisit iconic moments in rugby’s history in a production from Live Wire Theatre.

Ministry of Science Live Thu 24 Sep, 6pm, £14.50/£12.50 • Prepare for an explosive performance that is definitely not your ordinary science show.

Featuring an on-stage hovercraft, human cannon, hydrogen bottle rockets and much more, the Ministry of Science will whoosh, bang and fizz their way through the inventions and engineers which have shaped our modern world.

FENNELL’S FARM Fennel’s Farm, Lypiatt, Stroud GL6 7NE. 0845 4597469, www. giffordscircus.com Giffords Circus Thu 17-Sun 20 Sep, 6pm (Thu & Fri), 11am/2.30pm/7.30pm (Sat), 11am/2.30pm/5pm (Sun), £14-£22 • See Cirencester listing.

THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7HG. 01242 522852 www. cheltplayhouse.org.uk Musical Magic Wed 16-Sat 19 Sep, 7.30pm/2.30pm (Sat only), £12/£10 conc • Grand Royale Theatre Company presents its latest show-stopping homage to the world of song and dance. ‘Musical Magic’ incorporates show tunes from many much-loved musicals including ‘The Lion King’ and ‘Les Miserables’.

Guys and Dolls Sat 3-Sat 10 Oct, 7.45pm/2pm (Sat 10 only), £15/£13 conc • Cheltenham Operatic and Dramatic Society presents the Tony Award-winning Broadway classic ‘Guys and Dolls’. Notorious gambler Nathan Detroit becomes tangled up with the “highest roller of them all” Sky Masterson. Expect a riotous cast of characters, catchy songs and energetic routines.

ROSES THEATRE The Roses, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX. 01684 295074, www.rosestheatre.org Singalonga Frozen Sat 17 Oct, 10.30am/2pm, £10.75-£15.75 • Prepare to ‘let it go’ with a full screening of Disney’s ‘Frozen’, complete with lyrics on screen.

A live host will introduce the screening and show you how to use your prop bag, warm up your

singing voice and learn some dance moves with the help of the Singalonga Princesses. Dressing up highly encouraged.

The Amazing Bubble Man Tue 27 Oct, 1.30/3.30pm, £10.75£12.75 • Louis Pearl, aka The Amazing Bubble Man, presents a unique show to amaze and delight all the family. Bringing a mix of art, magic and science, it’s a chance to learn about the dynamics of bubbles, see spellbinding bubble tricks and get involved yourself with lots of audience participation.

The Snow Queen Wed 28 Oct, 7.30pm, £13.25-£21.25 • Ballet Theatre UK presents a re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairytale, ‘The Snow Queen’. Expect beautiful costumes and glittering stage sets, all set to a magical score.

FURTHER AFIELD BREWERY THEATRE 291 North Street, Southville, Bristol BS3 1JP. 0117 902 0344, www.tobaccofactorytheatre.com Bristol Festival of Puppetry Until Sun 6 Sep • The festival returns with a huge range of puppetry shows, workshops and more. Not all of it is suitable for children, but there are lots of family-friendly things to enjoy.

Including the following: Arthur’s Dream Boat Tue 27 Oct-Sun 1 Nov, 11am & 2pm, £7 • A magical puppet show about one little boy and his dream. One night Arthur dreams of the most beautiful pink and green boat, but no one seems interested – not even when it begins to grow right on top of his head.

BRISTOL HIPPODROME St. Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www. atgtickets.com/bristol Annie Until Sat 5 Sep, 2.30pm (Thu & Sat)/ 7.30 (Mon-Sat), £15£47.50 • It’s a hard knock life for orphan Annie but she’s determined to remain positive and find her parents. Things don’t go as expected but they definitely take a turn for the better in the end. Full of musical classics that will be in your head for the rest of the evening.

BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic. org.uk Kid Carpet and the Noisy Neighbours Thu 22-Sun 25 Oct,

Hurricane Boy, The egg, Bath, Sat 3-Sun 4 Oct

11am(except Thu 22)/2pm, £12/ conc £8/child £7 • Ed Patrick aka Kid Carpet is back with another jam-packed, lively show full of rock music, puppetry and projection, exploring the horrors and excitements of the first day in a new house.

The Cardboard Arcade Thu 22-Sat 25 Oct, 10am-6pm, free • The theatre’s foyer is transformed into a temporary kingdom where video game legends are born with the aid of the Unstable King and his custom-built retro arcade machines. Age 7+.

THE EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www. theatreroyal.org.uk We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Wed 16-Sun 20 Sep, 10am/1pm (Wed-Thu), 10am/12pm/3pm (Fri-Sat), 11am/2pm (Sun), £8.50 (adult)/£7.50 (child) • A family go on an expedition of a lifetime.

What will they find? A puppetry production that brings the funny adventure story to life. Age 2+.

Frogs and Snails and Teddy Bear Tales Sat 26-Sun 27 Sep, 11.30am/3pm (Sat), 11am (Sun), £8.50 (adult)/£7.50 (child) • It’s bear’s birthday tomorrow and the only thing that will help him sleep is a bedtime story.

Bring your teddy bear along and listen to tales of spring, summer, autumn and winter. Age 3+.

Hurricane Boy Sat 3-Sun 4 Oct, 11.30am/3pm (Sat), 11am/2pm (Sun), £8.50 (adult)/£7.50 (child) • A lonely boy rebuilds his house each day from the rubbish whipped up by the winds.

A girl appears and they spend a summer of blue skies and warm sun together, but when the hurricane takes her away, the boy has to find his way on his own. Age 5+.

PRIMARY TIMES

25/08/2015 12:17:10

Looking for an alternatve, excitng, adventurous day for your child this holiday?

We could be just what you are looking for!

Viney Hill has been providing adventurous actvites for over 30 years, building confdence and teaching skills that last a lifetme.

• Holiday actvity days – book your child in, pack them a lunch and they will experience a day of excitng onsite actvites!

• Birthday partes –your child can choose 2 onsite actvites to experience with their friends, and have the use of one of our venues for a party tea!

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So for an alternatve to the usual holiday actvites, contact us on 01594 516162 or by email on info@vineyhilladventure.org and watch your child’s confdence grow! ©LW

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Everyone Active manages these facilities in partnership with Cotswold District Council and Stroud District Council.

everyoneactive

@everyoneactive BACK TO SCHOOL 2015 9

21/08/2015 11:18:54

1 voucher per adult. Voucher may only be used once and must be presented on admission. No cash alternative.

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©LW

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Please also visit us at our website www.tayntons.co.uk. ©LW

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PRIMARY TIMES

25/08/2015 12:20:15

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

including water voles, ducks, dragonflies and rare birds. Closed during bad weather.

Deadlines: List your school or community group’s events in Primary Times for free. We work half a term in advance so we’re now collecting information for late October, November and December: deadline Monday 21 September. If your event is to raise funds for a school, a charity or your community, and is open to the public, please let the editor know at: mike.gartside@localworld.co.uk PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL While we make every effort to ensure these listings are accurate and up to date, event information can sometimes change after we’ve gone to press. Please check with the venue or organiser before you set off to an event to make sure it’s going ahead as planned . . . and tell them you saw it in Primary Times!

SEPTEMBER UNTIL SUN 6 SEP LEGO ANIMALS AT SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND CENTRE Slimbridge Wetlands Centre, Slimbridge GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/ slimbridge, 9.30am-5.30pm, £12.50 (adult)/£7(child)/under-4s free, 10% off online booking • Giant Lego brick sculptures are spending the summer at Slimbridge. There are 10 individually designed animals to discover and lots more to see and do besides.

UNTIL SUN 6 SEP BREAM GARDENING SOCIETY Dean Heritage Centre, Camp Mill,

Sheep Shows at BBC presenter Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park, until Sun 20 Dec

Soudley, Forest of Dean GL14 2UB. 01594 822170, www.deanheritagecentre.com, 10am-5pm, free with standard admission • The Bream Gardening Society is celebrating its 150-year history with an exhibition at the Dean Heritage Centre. The exhibition tells the story of the society from its inception to the present day with displays of royal telegrams, carnival queens and prizes, as well as a 150th anniversary quilt as a centrepiece.

UNTIL SAT 12 SEP ST AUGUSTINES FARM St Augustines Farm, Arlingham GL2 7JN. 01452 740720, www.staugustinesfarm.co.uk, 11am-5pm (Fri-Sun term time, every day in school holidays), £5.50 (adult)/£4.50 (child) • Explore the farm and feed the animals, and if that’s not enough, you can also play traditional games undercover or get lost in the riddle

maze. Don’t forget your picnic or relax in the café.

UNTIL SUN 27 SEP ARTS IN THE MARCHES Taurus Crafts, Old Park, Lydney Park Estate, Lydney GL15 6BU. 01594 844841, www.tauruscrafts. co.uk, 10am-5pm, free • A diverse range of outdoor sculpture on display and for sale throughout the grounds and gardens. Curated by Arts in the Marches, the exhibition features the work of nine artists based in the English-Welsh borderlands.

UNTIL WED 30 SEP CANOE SAFARI Slimbridge Wetlands Centre, Slimbridge GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org.uk, 11am4pm, £5 • Go for a relaxing paddle along the waterways of Gloucestershire and see wildlife

Review

Cornbury Festival

The Pyronaut in action in Bristol, Sat 30-Sun 31 May.

I

f the seething masses and wide expanses of Glastonbury Festival leave you feeling a little daunted, there are many smaller festivals within easy reach of the South West which offer families with young children a gentler introduction to festival-going. Among them, Cornbury Festival in Oxfordshire allows parents to combine the giggoing experience with a wealth of entertainment and activities for the little ones.

We arrived on the Friday evening, safe in the knowledge that there’s only a short walk from the car park to an easily accessible campsite with plenty of space to pitch the tent and wonderful views of the rolling countryside beyond the site.

There’s no hostile fortress fencing here and as we enter the arena we’re greeted by friendly staff plus a vast array of food stalls with cuisine ranging from the exotic to the familiar, at the heart of which sits the pub-style bar, complete with real ale from local brewer Hook Norton.

Our five-year-old revels in the packed activities of the play area, from clay pot making and drawing to circus skills and an obsession with the tail store (pester power requires investment in a tiger tail for

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Balloon antics at Cornbury Festival

the lad). We are all able to enjoy musical thrills ranging from Razorlight and Lulu, through to The Trevor Horne Band, fronted by Seal and joined by Police drummer Stuart Copeland (a real time machine for anyone with the vaguest memories of 80s music).

The attention span of our son means we can only sample a few songs from each set (all of which he enjoys enthusiastically). But by Saturday night he is happy and exhausted enough to allow himself to be brought back to the tent for bedtime, while my other half stays out to enjoy a blistering set by Sir Tom Jones. (Mike Gartside) Cornbury Festival W: www.cornburyfestival.com

UNTIL 31 OCT MINI SCRUMPTY TRAIL City Museum & Folk Museum, Gloucester. During museum opening hours, standard admission prices apply • To coincide with the city-wide scrumpty trail that’s been running throughout the summer, have a go at a mini trail within Gloucester’s own museums. Come along and have a go at finding the mini scrumpties – they’re well hidden so you’ll have to be eagleeyed! Solve all the clues to win a prize. You can also be entered into a draw to win your very own mini scrumpty and ‘WOW! Rugby’ rucksack.

UNTIL SUN 1 NOV CATTLE COUNTRY ADVENTURE PARK Berkeley Heath Farm, Berkeley, Gloucester GL13 9EW. 01453 810510, www.cattlecountry.co.uk, 10am-4pm, £8.60 (adult)/£9.45 (child) • Families can get up close to the resident goats, enjoy a round of mini-golf and test out the giant bouncy pillow. The indoor playbarns mean that even the unpredictable British weather won’t stop the fun.

UNTIL MON 30 NOV MUD, TRACK & TARMAC Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection, The Old Mill, Bourtonon-the-Water, Gloucestershire GL54 2BY. 01451 821255, www. cotswoldmotoringmuseum.co.uk, 10am-6pm, £5.25 (adult)/£3.75 (child) • With a selection of sports motorcycles and rally cars, this exhibition tells the story of the CSMA Club, which hails back to the early 1920s.

UNTIL MON 30 NOV DREAM A LITTLE DREAM Cotswold Motoring Museum & Toy Collection, The Old Mill, Bourtonon-the-Water GL54 2BY. 01451 821255, www.cotswoldmotoringmuseum.co.uk, 10am- 6pm, £5.25 (adult)/£3.75 (child) • Sixties nostalgia is in the air with this exhibition featuring the Zephyr Mk3 and a range of motorcycles. Enjoy original Radio Caroline sounds while exploring the collection.

UNTILSUN 20 DEC SHEEP SHOWS AT COTSWORLD FARM PARK Cotsworld Farm Park, Guiting Power, nr Cheltenham GL54 5UG. 01451 850307, www.cotsworldfarmpark.co.uk, 10.30am-5pm (10.30am-4pm from 2 Nov), £9.25 (adult)/£8.40 (child) • Volunteers are needed to star in the Sheep Show. Learn about sheep farming history and the farm’s rare breed BACK TO SCHOOL 2015

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Frampton Country Fair, Sun 13 Sep.

rams. Children’s activities are also running throughout the holidays so head on down for some farming fun.

FROM 1 SEP PERFORM WEEKLY DRAMA CLASSES Various locations around the region. 020 7255 9120, www. perform.org.uk, see website for info on fees, dates and times • Perform’s weekly workshops and drama classes are back for the autumn term. Four to 7 year olds can enjoy being whisked away to the world of The Magician’s Chamber for an Arthurian adventure, while 7 to 12-year-olds have the chance to put together a specially written show, promising original music, high-energy dance and lots of laughs. This term features a modern, streetwise adaptation of Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’, set on the streets of London.

TUE 1 SEP WILDFLOWER WALKS Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 01666 880220, www. forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt, 10.30am, standard admission prices apply • Discover the wealth of wild flowers that grow in Westonbirt’s beautiful grounds.

THU 3 SEP UGLY MUGS Old Cyder House Conference Centre, Dr Jenner’s House, Church Lane, Berkeley GL13 9BN, 01453 810631, www.jennermuseum. co.uk, 7.30pm, all tickets £5 • They wait on walls, rest on roofs and blend into buttresses – but can you see them? John Putley from Gloucestershire Archives presents a history of gargoyles in Gloucestershire.

SAT 5-SUN 6 SEP ORCHARD STREET FOOD AND CRAFT MARKET Gloucester Quays Designer Outlet, St Ann Way, Gloucester GL1 5SH. 01452 338933, www.gloucesterquays.co.uk, times TBA, free • A varied range of stalls including locally sourced food and drink, arts and crafts, jewellery, plants and more. Enjoy live music and soak up the atmosphere of market day.

SAT 5-SUN 6 AND SAT 19-SUN 20 SEP SEPTEMBER FUN RIDE Cotswold Farm Park, Bemborough Farm, Kineton, Cheltenham GL54 5UG. 01451 850307, www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk, one-hour slots from 9am-1pm, adult £25/ conc £22.50/child £20 • Bring your horse and enjoy exclusive access to the farm’s private estate in the heart of the Cotswolds. Up to 60 optional jumps for all ages and abilities over approx. 10 miles of varied terrain.

SUN 6 SEP ARCHAEOLOGY TOUR OF THE VILLA Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, Cheltenham GL54 PRIMARY TIMES

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3LJ. 01242 890256, www. nationaltrust.org.uk-chedworthroman-villa, 2-3pm, standard admission prices apply • Join Dr Nick Humphries for a presentation and tour which will provide an introduction to the history and archaeology of the villa, including past and present archaeological discoveries and developments.

TUE 8 AND TUE 22 SEP MUSEUM TOTS Gloucester City Museum & Art Gallery, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP. 01452 396131, www. venues.gloucester.gov.uk/freetime/museums/home, 10.30am12.30pm, standard admission prices apply • Come and browse the galleries where you will find special tot-friendly activities, giving you a chance to stick, create, try out some new toys and listen to storytime, as well as meet with other parents and tots.

THU 10 SEP CORINIUM CINEMA: SOME LIKE IT HOT Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX. 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum. org, 7pm, £5.50/£4.50 • Enjoy the comedy classic starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon as they flee from the mob as part of an all-girl jazz band. Booking recommended.

FRI 11-SAT 12 SEP CHIPPING SODBURY FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL Various venues, Chipping Sodbury. www.chippingsodburytic.co.uk • Cafes, pubs and restaurants around the town showcase a huge range of food and drink.

SAT 12 SEP HERITAGE OPEN DAY: CORINIUM MUSEUM Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX. 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum. org, 10am-5pm, free entry/£1 per children’s trail • As part of the national Heritage Open Days scheme, the museum will be open for free. Complete the family fun trail to win a prize.

SAT 12 SEP THE ART OF THE SAMURAI Batsford Arboretum, Moreton-inMarsh GL56 9QB. 01386 701441,

www.batsarb.co.uk, 11am-12noon, standard admission prices apply • Come along and learn about the striking art of the Japanese sword, Mugai Ryu, during this special demonstration.

SAT 12 SEP HERITAGE OPEN DAY: ROMAN DAY Gloucester Folk Museum, 99-103 Westgate St, Gloucester GL1 2PG. 01452 396868, 10.30am4.30pm, free • Celebrate Heritage Open Day with free entry to the museum. Handle Roman artefacts, make Roman crafts and dress up in traditional Roman costume.

SAT 12 SEP HERITAGE OPEN DAY AT CHEDWORTH Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, Cheltenham GL54 3LJ. 01242 890256, www.nationaltrust.org.uk-chedworth-romanvilla, 10am-5pm, free • Celebrate Heritage Open Day and enjoy free entry to Chedworth Roman Villa.

SAT 12-SUN 13 SEP BUSSAGE BEAR HUNT Bussage Primary School, The Ridgeway, Bussage, Stroud GL6 8FW. 07760 444310, 2-5pm, free/£3 for question sheet • Little adventurers are invited to see what they can find down in the woods today with Bussage Primary School’s bear hunt.

Explore the track and see how many bears you can spot before enjoying a feast of cake and ice cream for your efforts.

SAT 12-SUN 13 SEP NORTHLEACH STEAM AND VINTAGE SHOW Eastington Rd, Northleach GL54 3PJ. 07765 692758, www.northleachsteamshow.co.uk, 10am-5pm (4pm Sun), £5/£3/under-16s free • A relaxed, family-friendly day promising something for everyone, from steam engines to vintage tractors and classic cars.

SAT 12 SEP-SUN 4 OCT ART EXHIBITION AT THE VILLA Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, Cheltenham GL54 3LJ. 01242 890256, www.nationaltrust.org.uk-chedworth-romanvilla, 10am-4.30pm, standard admission prices apply • A display

of contemporary art works from regional artists, mosaicists and sculptors. The chosen artwork reflects some of the themes found in and around Chedworth.

SUN 13 SEP FRAMPTON COUNTRY FAIR Frampton Court Estate, Manor Farm, Frampton-on-Severn, Gloucester GL2 7EP. 01452 740152, www.framptoncountryfair. co.uk, 9am-5.30pm, £7 adv/£9 on the day/£3/under-5s free • Frampton’s popular country fair returns featuring a variety of fun country activities, including gun dog competitions, fly fishing and clay pigeon shooting. Also enjoy a wide range of stalls, refreshments and entertainment from tribute band The Mangledwurzels.

SUN 13 SEP MOSAICS TOUR OF THE VILLA Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, Cheltenham GL54 3LJ. 01242 890256, www.nationaltrust.org.uk-chedworth-romanvilla, 2-3pm, standard admission prices apply • Join Dr Nick Humphries for a presentation and tour to learn more about the villa’s fascinating mosaics, including how they were made and the people who made them.

SUN 13 SEP VICTORIAN DAY Gloucester Folk Museum, 99-103 Westgate St, Gloucester GL1 2PG. 01452 396868, 11am-4pm, free • Handle some Victorian objects, have a go at some calligraphy in the Victorian classroom and experience a real Victorian wash day.

Even better, entry is completely free to celebrate Heritage Open Days.

SUN 13 SEP CANAL CRUISE TO PURTON AND SHARPNESS Gloucester Waterways Museum, Llanthony Warehouse, The Docks, Gloucester GL1 2EH. 01452 318200, www.canalrivertrust. org.uk/Gloucester-waterwaysmuseum, 10am-5pm, all tickets £25 • Enjoy 14 bridges on the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal and stunning views of Purton and the Severn Estuary on a scheduled cruise to Sharpness. Picnic lunch is included.

THU 17 SEP AND THU 12 OCT DISCOVERY TOUR OF THE VILLA Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, Cheltenham GL54 3LJ. 01242 890256, www.nationaltrust.org.uk-chedworth-romanvilla, 2-3pm, standard admission prices apply • Join the man who found the villa in 1864 – gamekeeper Thomas Margetts – as he takes you on a journey through time from the Victorian Cotswolds back to the villa’s grandest days and on to the latest archaeological finds.

FRI 18 SEP BOX OFFICE BABIES Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX. 01285 BACK TO SCHOOL 2015

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655611, www.coriniummuseum. org, 11am, £5/babies free • Cinema screenings exclusively for parents and guardians with new babies or pre-school children.

Bring your baby and watch the latest films without worrying about noise or feeding. For film titles contact the Corinium Museum or visit the website.

SAT 19 SEP EDWARD JENNER SCHOOL OPEN DAY 4 Pitt St, Gloucester GL1 2BH. 01452 380808, www.edwardjennerschool.org.uk, 1-4pm • Come and look around the school which offers full-time and flexible schooling in the heart of Gloucester.

SAT 19 SEP- SUN 3 JAN ERDKUNDE: THE STUDY OF THE EARTH Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, Queens Rd, Bristol, BS8 1RL, 0117 9223571, www.bristolmuseums. org.uk/bristol-museum-and-artgallery. 10am-6pm, free • Artists John Wood and Paul Harrison present a new video inspired by the museum’s geology collections.

FRI 25 SEP MUSEUMS AFTER HOURS Gloucester City Museum & Art Gallery, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP. 01452 396131, 6-9pm, free for museum members/standard admission prices apply • A special after-hours opening for the museum, allowing visitors to experience the magic of a late-night visit as the nights draw in.

FRI 25 SEP-SUN 4 OCT BATH CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL Various locations and times, see website for full programme listings. 01225 463362, www. bathfestivals.org.uk/childrensliterature • The fun-packed Children’s Literature Festival is back, with a programme of over 100 events featuring some of the biggest authors and illustrators from the wonderful world of children’s books.

SAT 26 SEP MUSEUMS AFTER HOURS Gloucester Folk Museum, 99-103 Westgate St, Gloucester GL1 2PG. 01452 396868, 6-9pm, free for museum members/standard admission prices apply • A special after-hours opening for the museum, allowing visitors to experience the magic of a latenight visit as the nights draw in.

SAT 26 SEP WILD WESTONBIRT Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 01666 880220, www. forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt, 10am4pm, booking essential please call 0300 067 4854 for info and prices • An exciting bushcraft and survival youth club for young people aged 14-18. Participate in a range of traditional forest and survival skills including den building, wildlife watching and woodland crafts.

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SAT 26 SEP MUSEUM DETECTIVES CLUB Gloucester Folk Museum, 99-103 Westgate St, Gloucester GL1 2PG. 01452 396868, 10.30am-12noon, £5 per child • Fun-packed club for children aged 5-11. Each session will be packed full of activities, stories, crafts and trails, as well as the chance to see and handle items from the museum’s own collection, including dinosaur bones and heaps of fascinating natural history specimens.

reates Chris Riddell and Michael Rosen, as well as talks from David Almond, Lauren Child and Julia Donaldson. Adults certainly won’t be missing out either, with appearances from six Booker Prize winners, including Peter Carey, as well as delicious food served up by a host of celebrity chefs. There isn’t space to list all the events in the packed programme, so we’ve picked out a few highlights from the family-oriented end of the festival below.

SAT 26-SUN 27 SEP MALVERN AUTUMN SHOW Three Counties Showground, Malvern WR13 6NW. 01684 584924, www.threecounties. co.uk/malvernautumn, 9am-6pm, £15.50/£5.50 adv/£18/£7 on the day • The Malvern Autumn Show is set to celebrate seasonal food, the countryside, gardening and nostalgia with a host of cooking demonstrations, giant vegetables, television personalities and a whole range of family entertainment over the weekend. Enjoy vintage afternoon tea, jive lessons, the Old Tyme fairground and stalls selling everything from plants to vintage clothes.

SAT 3 OCT HORRIBLE SCIENCE (CHELTENHAM LIT FEST) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham GL50 3AA. 01242 511211, www.cheltenhamfestivals. com, 10-10.45am, £6 • Join Horrible Science illustrator Tony De Saulles for a horribly hilarious scientific event. Learn how to make your drawings look as if they are smelly, cut in half or even exploding. Packed full of illustrating tips and lots of fun science facts too.

SUN 27 SEP FIVE VALLEYS WALK IN STROUD Various locations around Stroud.

0845 120 4530, www.meningitisnow.org/support-us/five-valleyswalk-2015, from 8.30am, registration fee £10/£5/family £30 • The chance for all ages and abilities to roam through five beautiful Stroud valleys while helping to raise money and awareness for the Meningitis Trust. Diehard ramblers can opt to walk the full 21 miles, but those whose feet are getting sore can take a free shuttle bus back to their original checkpoint.

WED 30 SEP ROMAN MOSAICS TOUR Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, Cheltenham GL54 3LJ. 01242 890256, www. nationaltrust.org.uk-chedworthroman-villa, 3-4pm, standard admission prices apply • Join Dr Nick Humpris for a presentation and tour to learn more about the villa’s fascinating mosaics, including how they were made and the people who made them.

OCTOBER FRI 2-SUN 11 OCT CHELTENHAM LITERATURE FESTIVAL Various locations and times, see website for full programme. 0844 8808094, www.cheltenhamfestivals.com • The Times Cheltenham Literature Festival returns, including the popular Book It! family programme featuring some of the most popular authors for children and teens. This year’s jam-packed programme includes a talk from current and former children’s lau-

SAT 3 OCT VINTAGE FLEA MARKET St John’s Church Centre, Wickwar Rd, Chipping Sodbury, South Glos BS37 6BQ. 01454 885552, 10am4pm, free • In aid of Bristol’s Cots for Tots, enjoy 18 fabulous vintage stalls selling everything from retro clothes to furniture, toys, books and jewellery. Come and browse the stalls and relax with some tea and cake in the church’s tea room.

SAT 3 OCT NEEDLEFELT BIRD WORKSHOP Slimbridge Wetland Centre GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge, 10am-2.30pm, £32 • Run by experienced craft teacher Sophie Buckley, this needle felt workshop will show you how to make beautiful bird decorations. Price includes all materials and refreshments. Suitable for ages 7+.

SUN 4 OCT GOTH GIRL WITH CHRIS RIDDELL (CHELTENHAM LIT FEST) The Inkpot, Imperial Sq, Cheltenham G50 1QB. 01242 511211, www.cheltenhamfestivals.com, 2-3pm, £7 • The Waterstones Children’s Laureate introduces the third book in his award-winning Goth Girl series.

It’s the Literary Dog Show at Ghastly Gorm Hall but something sinister is afoot – who’s behind the mysterious footprints in the snow and barking in the night?

Suitable for ages 8+.

SUN 4 OCT FOREST SHOWCASE FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL The Speech House Hotel, Speech House Rd, Coleford GL16 7EL. 01594 822607, www.forestshowcase.org, 10am-5pm, £5/child £2/ family £12 • Now in its 15th year, Forest Showcase Food and Drink

Museums After Hours at Gloucester City Museum, Sat 25 Sep.

Festival welcomes a special guest, Masterchef’s Greg Wallace, to this foodie favourite featuring cookery demonstrations, live music and over 100 stalls.

SAT 10 OCT WRITE ON WORKSHOP: CREATIVE WRITING AND POETRY FREEPLAY(CHELTENHAM LIT FEST) Dance Studio, Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham GL50 3AA. 01242 511211, www. cheltenhamfestivals.com, 10am12noon, £16 • Join Phillip Wells, aka The Fire Poet, for a morning of creative high jinks. Dig deep into your imagination and find your inner fire. Suitable for ages 8-14.

SAT 10 OCT MOSAIC WORKSHOP Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, Cheltenham GL54 3LJ. 01242 890256, www. nationaltrust.org.uk-chedworthroman-villa, 10am-4pm, £50 • Join professional mosaic maker Erica Bibbings to create your own mosaic to decorate your home just as the Romans decorated the villa.

All materials and lunch included; booking essential.

SUN 11 OCT 70 YEARS OF THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE (CHELTENHAM LIT FEST) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola St, Cheltenham GL50 3AA. 01242 511211, www.cheltenhamfestivals. com, 10-10.45am, £6 • All aboard!

Put your party hats on and join storyteller Liz Fost on a fun adventure to celebrate Thomas’s birthday. Suitable for ages 3-6.

TUE 13 AND TUE 20 OCT MUSEUM TOTS Gloucester City Museum & Art Gallery, Brunswick Rd, Gloucester GL1 1HP. 01452 396131, www. venues.gloucester.gov.uk/freetime/museums/home, 10.30am12.30pm, standard admission prices apply • Come and browse in the galleries where you will find special tot-friendly activities, giving you a chance to stick, create, try out some new toys and listen to storytime, as well as meet with other parents and tots.

THEATRE AND ROUNDABOUT LISTINGS BY ELLEN WHITE

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Safe from

harm

As children become more independent, parents face the dilemma of preparing them for the dangers they may face, without scaring them witless. Anne Marie Scanlon explores the confidence that comes with self defence classes.

Talking to your children about danger

T

he people your child meets daily are mostly caring, responsible individuals. However, on rare occasions, children might encounter people with bad intentions.

T

he hardest transition for many parents is letting their children out without adult supervision. They are bound to worry when their children are out of sight. So how do you prepare your child to deal with danger, or its threat, on their own? Self defence classes are one way to address staying safe. There are a huge variety of different martial arts disciplines and classes available for children.

Increasingly, martial arts classes and self-defence classes are being run for the whole family.

Going to classes as a family unit has many benefits other than learning valuable safety tips and techniques. Leaving aside the serious reasons, this is a fun activity that will bring the whole family closer as a unit. Children will see their parents in a learning situation, and quite possibly find themselves having to teach their parents – which can boost their confidence.

Anecdotal evidence from parents also suggests that children who learn martial arts have improved grades at school. This may be because martial arts are very goal-oriented and the practice helps children to increase their focus and determination.

While it’s good to be able to defend yourself, or indeed to run

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away at the right time, proper defence of the self begins in the mind, according to the experts. For you or your children to defend yourselves you first need to be aware of the dangers. When we teach our children to cross roads the first thing we do is make them stand back and look around. This is a habit we need to cultivate all the time and not just when crossing the road. Of course it’s a skill that’s especially difficult for parents and children, as we all spend too much time plugged into some sort of device.

Children and adults alike should always stay in places that are open, well lit and well frequented. Be aware of hiding places – stairwells, behind walls and bushes. Don’t take shortcuts through alleyways or parkland after dark, even if you “know” them. Remind older children to stay in a group when out later in the evenings. Both adults and children should always let someone know where they are and if there is any change of plan.

British Karate Federation www.thebka.co.uk The British Combat Association www.britishcombat.co.uk United Kingdom Martial Arts Self Defence Association www.ukmasda.co.uk

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS Stress to your child that they should listen to their ‘gut feeling’. If a situation feels strange or uncomfortable, they should get away as soon as they can.

FORGET MANNERS Many parents drum in the importance of being polite. As a result, children feel obliged to be ‘nice’ to adults in general including total strangers. For example, if a stranger stops your child to ask for directions, remind them to just keep moving and keep away from the car. It it is not the child’s ‘job’ or responsibility to provide directions, even when the driver is genuinely lost.

MAKE A BIG NOISE Again, parents are forever telling their children to pipe down and not make so much noise.

Just like politeness, this rule no longer applies if your child perceives a threat of some sort.

When you talk to them about ways of dealing with potential danger, remind them, often, that if someone tries to physically take them anywhere, they should make as much noise as possible. Along with shouting as loud as they can (which will often be enough to dissuade a potential assailant, as they don’t want to be caught) your child should kick, bite, scratch

and gouge. This advice probably goes against everything you’ve ever told them before about behaviour but remind them often, nonetheless.At the same time, remind them constantly that they should never willingly go off with a stranger, no matter who they say they are, or get into a vehicle with them.

KNOW WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR Unfortunately ‘baddies’ don’t come labelled. Remind your children that a potential assailant looks just like everybody else. We’ve all probably parroted to our children not to accept sweets from strangers, but remind them, too, if someone asks their help in looking for a lost puppy or kitten (what child wouldn’t want to help with that) the answer should always be “no” and to stay in sight with people they know.

WHEN TO RUN Your child’s greatest protection against any type of harm is to walk or run away from it. Remind your child that, if something feels instinctively wrong, they need to remove themselves from the situation quickly. Boys especially may try to prove something by attempting to fight, or be a hero. Remind them there is no shame in running away from a possibly desperate adult. Similarly, tell your child that if somebody theatens them with a weapon while trying to steal something like a bike or a phone, let them!

Possessions can be replaced, people can’t.

PRIMARY TIMES

25/08/2015 12:00:53

ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

The right foundations

Dragon offers bursaries The Dragon is a co-educational boarding and day school in Oxford which offers an all-round educational experience for both boys and girls from 4 to 13 years.

The school is keen to welcome pupils from a wide range of backgrounds, but acknowledges that the cost of fees puts it beyond the reach of many. For this reason bursaries are offered.

At the Dragon, means-tested bursaries can cover all or a substantial portion of the fees for boarding or day places for children starting in year four. This grant does not have to be repaid.

Applications are invited each autumn for the following year.

If you are interested in the Dragon, you would be welcome to visit and see the school for yourself. There are two autumn open mornings, Saturday 19 September and Saturday 10 October.

To find out more, contact the school or visit its website.

Ffi: The Dragon School T: 01865 315405 E: admissions@dragonschool.org W: www.dragonschool.org

Learning through adventure The Christian Adventure Centre at Viney Hill near Lydney provides not only a fun-filled, adventurous residential or day visit (although it does that as well), it also aims to give children an experience that supports learning in the school classroom. With links to many subjects on the national curriculum, the centre’s activities are tailored to enhance learning. One way it does this is with curriculum study days in particular subjects, with activities which deliver learning using practical skills in an outdoor environment.

During the winter period, the centre offers competitive rates while there is help with transport and free accommodation in September. “We can provide you with a memorable and beneficial experience in a beautiful environment for both your teachers and pupils,” it says.

The centre also offers birthday parties from £125 (including a venue for your party tea) and holiday activity days in the summer from £15 per child.

Ffi: Viney Hill Christian Adventure Centre T: 01594 516162 E: haley@vineyhilladventure.org W: www.vineyhilladventure.org

PRIMARY TIMES

15 Glos Pinboard Back to School 2015.indd 23

Research conducted

by KSOL has found that, with the right guidance, children who start their 11+ preparation in year four and five still have plenty of time to make progress in their studies.

When choosing your child’s 11+ educational provider, ask yourself the following key questions: • Are they qualified to tutor my child?

• Does their curriculum reflect current 11+ topics?

• Will my child receive a personalised programme that will target their weaker areas?

• Do they have third party endorsements and awards?

The answer to all these questions, of course, should be a resounding ‘yes’.

With its award-winning tuition programmes and customer service, KSOL is well-placed to provide your child with a high-quality 11+ education and provide you with the peace of mind that you’re on the right track. Call or visit the website for details of KSOL’s back-to-school offers.

Ffi: KSOL T: 0121 733 6558 W: www.ksol.co.uk

How do you learn?

Get kitted out!

Showcase is a family business run by enthusiastic people who have combined their love of dance, costume and theatre to create a dancewear and fancy dress department. As proprietors, John and Heather Pannett have over 40 years’ knowledge of theatre and dance and their professional advice and assistance is always at hand.

If you require dancewear for dance and gymnastics, a visit to Showcase may well be the answer. Once there you can seek advice from trained dance teachers who believe passionately that you must actually try footwear and garments to ensure the correct fit and quality.

Showcase also stocks thousands of quality fancy dress costumes for adults and children plus the accessories to make your show or individual costume complete.

Showcase has encouraged and advised many people over the years, some of whom are now performing in West End shows.

Ffi: Showcase W: www.showcaseonline.co.uk

Upping the ante

A Wycliffe teacher has come up with an innovative way to make learning as simple as child’s play. Have a Go Gordon, Active Annie and Creative Catherine are three dolls which describe the three ways children learn.

Under the EYFS Curriculum teachers must report to parents how their child learns and if they demonstrate active learning, creativity and critical thinking, playing and exploring. These are called the characteristics of effective learning and Sarah Bond, who teaches the reception class at Wycliffe Preparatory School, decided she needed a simple way to explain them.

Hence the dolls. Gordon represents exploring, Annie likes to concentrate while Catherine is the creative one.

The three dolls live in class and have become a part of school life. “We may say ‘we need to be a bit more Gordon today’ and the children understand,” said Mrs Bond. “It gives them the confidence to talk about how they learn in a positive way.”

Following the results of the 2012 PISA tests, which ranked England and Wales 26th for maths, the government has created a new national curriculum which is more “rigorous, stretching and ambitious”. Replicating countries which fared better, a new emphasis has been placed on mastery and mental maths, with students now expected to recall multiplications up to twelve fluently by the age of nine.

Established for nearly 60 years, supplementary education provider Kumon understands the connection between mental maths and long-term memory as a way to build up fluency and mastery of a subject.

Similarly, as part of the English curriculum, schools will now have to promote reading for pleasure: a core aim of the Kumon English programme since it was devised.

If you would like to know more about how Kumon can help your child improve in maths and English, you can contact your local study centre for more information.

Ffi: Wycliffe Preparatory School W: www.wycliffe.co.uk

Ffi: Kumon T: 0800 854 714 W: www.kumon.co.uk

BACK TO SCHOOL 2015 17

25/08/2015 12:08:52

Adver tising Feature

That’s show business!

• The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts is enrolling in Stroud.

The academy is a weekend performing arts school for 4-18-year-olds and, due to its popularity, PQA Stroud is launching a new afternoon session with a free open day on Saturday 26 September.

“When we opened our first academy in 2007,” says Pauline, “our mission was simply to provide the very best performing arts education. We’ve grown a lot since then, but that mission hasn’t changed.

By working with people we believe are outstanding in their field, we aim to bring the widest, most exciting experience to our students in an environment that is both friendly and rewarding.”

PQA’s core modules in comedy and drama, musical theatre and film and television teach a comprehensive range of skills, which are useful for everyday life, not just a career in the performing arts, whilst masterclasses allow students to experience more specialist lessons in areas like stage combat, beat boxing, street dance and magic.

Academy students are also treated to top professional masterclasses, free Trinity exams, cinema screenings, the option of joining Quirky Kidz Management Agency for professional work and the opportunity to perform at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London’s West End. The PQA Stroud free open day is on Saturday 26 September from 1.45-5pm at St Matthew’s Church of England Primary School, Church Road in Stroud (GL5 4JE).

10% OFF ENTRY WITH THIS VOUCHER

01285 885570 WWW.MAGICLAND.CO.UK * WITH THIS VOUCHER ONLY. VALID UNTIL 31ST DECEMBER 2015. PHOTOCOPIES NOT ACCEPTED AND THIS VOUCHER MAY ONLY BE USED ONCE. PRITIMES

Ffi: Pauline Quirke Academy Stroud W: www.pqacademy.com

Adver tising Feature

World of fun • Magicland is perhaps Gloucestershire’s largest indoor soft play area that the entire family can enjoy. It has a huge 13,000 sq ft play area with a large multi-tiered soft play structure.

Children can let off some steam on the astra and wave slide, while the cannon area shoots foam balls at various targets, including other visitors. As well as the ball rivers, zip slides, log ramps and another winding slide, Magicland also has its own five-a-side indoor football pitch for budding footballers alongside the play area.

For those with babies or children under four, there is a specific area for them to enjoy, with their own ball pond, mini slide, crawl tube and play equipment. There’s also an area specifically for little ones under 18 months, which comes complete with bouncers, mirrors and a “bouncing buttercup”. And after all that running around, children can chill out in the story corner with its interactive screens.

Magicland has regular fun activities and events planned throughout the year including face painting every Sunday. This October half-term there are wizard shows and arts and craft sessions, while it has also just started holding discos. You’ll find details on the website.

Please note that socks must be worn at all times and that no food or drink from outside sources is permitted. Magicland prides itself on the safety and cleanliness of its facilities.

It looks forward to welcoming you to its world of fun.

Stroud’s mixed comprehensive with Sixth Form invites prospectve students and parents to our Open Evening Monday 5 October 2015 7.00pm – 9.00pm Open Mornings Wednesday 7 and Thursday 8 October Please contact the school for further details

Telephone: 01453 763242 www.archwayschool.net

Ffi: Magicland W: www.magicland.co.uk ©LW

18 BACK TO SCHOOL 2015

15 Glos advertising features Back to School 2015.indd 26

PRIMARY TIMES

25/08/2015 11:41:26

Adver tising Feature

Gearing up for 11+ • It’s been a busy year for 11 Plus Tutoring Academy. Earlier in the year, Letts published the academy’s ‘CEM Style 11 + Test Papers and Booster Book’. It has also recently been nominated as a UK finalist for Private Tutoring Company of the Year and Private Tuition Centre Operator at the Education Investor Awards 2015.

The Gloucestershire-based 11 Plus Tutoring Academy has now announced that its year-four Durham CEM 11 + course will be held on every Wednesday from 4-6pm at Sacred Hearts Hall, Moorend Road, Charlton Kings, GL53. The course starts on Wednesday 16 September.

Students enjoy the pace the course takes. They are given time to ensure that the foundations are mastered before moving onto the more challenging topics. They build confidence in English and maths for school, as well as starting to work through how to approach non-verbal reasoning for their respective age group.

Many pupils often improve and will go up in their maths sets during the course as a result of the tuition and practice in the year-four sessions.

Kathryn McMahon of 11 Plus Tutoring Academy says: “We believe in building solid foundations. Our courses prepare pupils for the new 11-plus exam and also for their move to secondary school due to the content covered in the sessions. Strong friendships are built in the process too. We are dedicated to providing pupils with the best opportunity to pass their 11-plus exam, through our comprehensive syllabus, high-quality group and one-to-one tuition and mock exams.”

Ffi: 11 Plus Tutoring Academy T: 01242 221271 W: www.11plustutoringacademy.co.uk

Open Evening: Tuesday 29th September 6.30pm

Maidenhill School is a mixed 11-16 school in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire, ‘set at the foot of the Cotswold Hills’

Open Mornings: Wednesday 30th September - 9.15am Thursday 1st October - 9.15am All welcome

Creating and achieving a brighter future

Headteacher: Mrs P Wilson Telephone: 01453 822469 Maidenhill School, Kings Road, Stonehouse, GL10 2HA

Adver tising Feature

Fostering with Action for Children • Action for Children is one of the UK’s largest children’s charities and has over 145 years’ experience in supporting vulnerable children and their families.

The charity’s fostering service supports children who have usually had traumatic childhoods; they are older children between 10 – 18 years of age and have complex needs.

There is a national shortage of foster carers and Action for Children needs people to come forward and give these children a safe, caring home where they can thrive and develop. The charity puts children at the heart of everything it does and promises, if you foster with them, they will give you all the support you need to help make children’s lives better.

Action for Children is looking for foster carers to join its friendly and supportive team. It makes the application process clear and simple, and makes sure you get the training you need to do a great job – before and after you become a foster carer. It matches the needs of children to your skills, experience and situation to find the right placement for you and the child. Here are some carers’ comments: “I would strongly recommend people who are thinking of a career change, to really consider becoming a foster carer,” Ian. “As soon as I picked up the phone I felt reassured and welcomed, and the application process began immediately,” Steve.

Ffi: Action for Children T: Rachel 07525 731746 E: MTFCBristol@actionforchildren.org.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

15 Glos advertising features Back to School 2015.indd 27

BACK TO SCHOOL 2015 19

25/08/2015 11:43:19

Doors Open Day is the perfect way to discover some of Bristol’s most remarkable buildings and unearth its hidden treasures, says Eric Blair.

wide!

Open

Circomedia

I

t’s not every day you get the chance to go behind the scenes at Bristol Old Vic, venture into Redcliffe Caves, climb church towers and explore the secrets of some of Bristol’s hidden treasures.

Every September, though, that’s precisely what you can do on the city’s Doors Open Day. It’s been running now for 22 years and this time around more than 70 venues across the city are throwing open their doors to give you unprecedented access to buildings and places you may never have seen before.

This year, too, Bristol is the European Green Capital so there’s a special ‘green’ theme, with some of the city’s most environmentally friendly buildings open to the public. You can find out how Avonmouth Wind Farm generates electricity for nearly 5,000 homes, visit the rooftop wildflower and vegetable garden at the Environment Agency’s HQ and investigate the revolutionary low-energy technology installed in At-Bristol. Elsewhere, the BBC has teamed up with Avon Wildlife Trust to create a wildlife garden outside Broadcasting House on

A family enjoys a view of The Wills Memorial Building

’ Studios Jamaica Street Artists

Whiteladies Road while the Create Centre in Smeaton Road is hosting a programme of ecofriendly activities including games and workshops. You can even travel between venues around the Harbourside for free on board the city’s very own ‘poo bus’ fuelled by human and food waste.

All sorts of other venues are opening up for the day as well, so whether you’re interested in art or architecture, history or music, there are bound

Arnos Vale Cemetery

to be plenty of places you’ll want to explore, from the Underfall Yard on the Docks to the Edwardian loo on Park Row and from Knowle West Media Centre to Arnos Vale Cemetery.

And even if you’ve been to some of these before, the whole idea behind Doors Open Day is to give you the chance to see places in a new way. Many venues, in fact, are laying on special events and activities. The Island, Bristol Royal Infirmary, Royal Fort House, St George’s Bristol and the Wills

Triados

Memorial Building are just a handful of places where you’ll be able to take a special guided tour, while at Circomedia circus skills school you can even have a go at the flying trapeze.

Although, in the vast majority of cases, you can join these tours and activities simply by turning up on the day, for some venues – including Spike Island arts centre, Avonmouth and Royal Portbury Docks, the Engine Shed at Temple Meads and Bristol Record Office – you will need to book in advance.

Indeed, some tours are already fully booked. You can find out more at the Bristol Open Doors Day website – where, of course, you’ll also find a list of all the venues taking part this year, as well as a downloadable event guide and searchable map.

Best of all, everything on the day is free and whether you come up with a carefully planned schedule or just pick up a map and make it up as you go along, you’re sure to find out lots of new things about the city.

Ffi: Bristol Doors Open Day various venues, Bristol, Sat 12 Sep W: www.bristoldoorsopenday.org.uk

Charles Wesley’s House

Bristol Grammar School Tower 20

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15 Glos Features Back to School 2015.indd 8

PRIMARY TIMES

25/08/2015 12:05:41

Classifieds Arts & Crafts

• Keepsakes • Gifts • Decopatch • Paint your own ceramics • Partyroom 5 Cossack Square, Nailsworth, Stroud GL6 0DB Tel: 01453 835043 www.paint-a-pot.co.uk email enquiries@paint-a-pot.co.uk

Business Opportunity • Greeting Cards • Note Cards • Giftwrap and Tags • Stationery New Traders wanted, contact me.

Jennifer Cartwright-Taylor Tel: 07518 785636

Swimming

BIG WAVES SWIM SCHOOL Dean Close School Pool, Cheltenham Enrolling now for Aquasplash August Children’s Crash Courses and Big Waves September Sunday morning term classes ASA Badge Scheme ASA qualifed friendly Teachers, Small groups.

Tel. Marian/Karen 07887422232/ 07810 296130 Sundays Marian email bigwavesswim@yahoo.co.uk Karen email aquasplashswim@yahoo.co.uk

©LW

Website: www.phoenix-trading.co.uk/web/jct39447 Email: jct39447@gmail.com ©LW

Dancewear Lower Ground Floor 14 – 15 Montpellier Arcade Montpellier Street, Cheltenham GL50 1SU Open: 10.00 am – 5.00 pm Mon - Sat Tel: 01242 224144 info@showcaseonline.co.uk

www.showcaseonline.co.uk

Tuition

J Tuition • Qualified Experienced Teacher • English, Maths, Verbal reasoning • Booster Lessons English & Maths

• Preparation for Grammar School Entrance (CEM tests) • Individual or Group Tuition • To any level

01452 530101 or 01453 549764

Party Ideas

Limited period only

Ice-Cream Van Hire From

Only £49

Professional, polite, well dressed service, Great for all occasions including: Weddings, Birthdays, Christenings, Company Parties, Sporting Events, Fetes & Festivals etc. in Gloucestershire and surrounding Areas. we serve: local Hard Scoop, Soft Whippy, Sweets, Slush Machine, Soft Drinks, Hot Chocolate, and our very own "Wotton Fudge", Plus great wedding favour/party bag`s TreatsUK.com 7 Market Street, Wotton-u-Edge, GL12 7AE. Contact us on 07969166383 The Traditional Sweet Shop Home of Delicious “ Wotton Fudge”, Fancy dress, Jokes, Tricks & Novelties

For great gift ideas...

Very experienced and qualifed tutors Offer quality 11+ tuition And other subject support Including English, Maths and French Please contact Andrew and Marielle

Tel. Cheltenham 01242 516608 www.cgtutoring.co.uk ©LW

Infant and junior clubs Pre-school sessions Parent & toddler sessions www.fun-languages.co.uk Contact Sylvie on 01242 513072

Longlevens Tuition Helping Primary Children with Maths & English Skills Tuition for 11 Plus 2017 Help with dyslexia Mrs Manley, NNEB, BSc (Hons) PGCE

Gloucester (01452) 387228 PRIMARY TIMES

glos classifieds.indd 3

©LW

Book now for FREE bouncy castle hire

BACK TO SCHOOL 2015 21

25/08/2015 12:21:58

Hello Kids!

Thank you so much for the lovely pictures you send me. Please keep trying if you weren’t successful this time. With autumn coming up I’ve thought of this theme for the next competition: broomsticks and bonfires, exploring all the fun things we do in October and November. Winners will receive a fabulous children’s book from the editor’s overflowing book cupboard. So get your crayons out and send me your pictures to: Arty Barty, Primary Times, B-N&M, Temple Way, Bristol, BS2 0BY, or email high resolution jpegs to my editor at: mike.gartside@ localworld.co.uk

Arty Barty I was really impressed by the entries to our Summer in Space-themed competition and it was such a close call, but well done to the winners who win a free family ticket to At-Bristol hands on science centre.

Don’t forget to put your name, age, full home postal address and school on the back. Deadline: Monday 21 September.

Have fun!

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

Ella Starr, 9, Elm Park Primary, Bristol This is carefullydrawn and well thought out, representing a crescent moon or planet covered in palm trees and flowers: the ideal summer holiday destination!

9, Scott Granger, Preshute Primary ugh School, MarlboromicI really like the co s book feel to thi drawing. There ared many well-observe ate a details that illustrch as space summer, su ol in the swimming po ristspace and the toug for like aliens lookin ts. beaches on plane

WINNER!

Eleanor Goodey, 9, Lea & Garsdon CE Primary, Malmesbury What a cheerful image of Mars, with a relaxed alien enjoying the sun’s bright rays. I love the shading and the way (nearly!) all the planets of the solar system are represented.

WINNER!

Jessica Zhao, 11, Widden Primary School Gloucester What a very well-drawn and precisely coloured image, with almost a professionally drafted feel! The expressions of surprise on the aliens’ faces are a hoot.

Custardy sentences

Broadcaster and medical doctor Professor Robert Winston puts his name to this packed volume about the extraordinary body we all possess. If his own extravagant moustache is not proof enough of the wonder of the human physique, this book offers hundreds of facts and observations about our anatomy, which bring the complex world of the human interior to life for children. Did you know, for example, if you could touch your brain, it would feel like toothpaste, or that we all produce three types of tears?

More in-depth diagrams and pull-out flaps explain the workings of the eye, the lungs, the heart and the muscles as well as offering a basic introduction to the idea of DNA, the double helix molecule that forms all life and which passes our physical traits from generation to generation. This is a high quality introduction to the world of human biology which could spark a life long interest in the workings of the body. (Mike Gartside)

Three friends, Stan, Minnie and Miles, go on the latest of their exiting and dangerous adventures at the special Superhero School. This time Mighty High is under official inspection and the friends struggle to keep hidden the school’s secret: that they all have superpowers. If the inspectors find out, they could close the school. Dr Sinister makes matters even worse with his evil plotting and scheming.

As the inspection gets underway, the villain sees the perfect opportunity to infiltrate and steal children for his evil experiments. Stan, Minnie and Miles must defeat him before he harms their friends.

It’s an exciting and funny story that will captivate readers aged 6 to 9. The book is organised in an engaging, dynamic way, with some sections resembling comic strips or diaries interspersed with more conventionally designed pages. Stan, Minnie and Miles are intelligent, lovable and funny heroes that come to life in Alan MacDonald’s writing and the excellent black and white illustrations by Nigel Baines. The story is a mix of laughter and adventure, which teaches children about fighting for what they believe in. (Caitlin Gartside)

Utterly Amazing Human Body Robert Winston, Dorling Kindersley, £14.99, www.dk.com

Superhero School, Curse of the Evil Custard Alan MacDonald, £4.99, Bloomsbury, www.bloomsbury.com

Primary Times reviews the new releases.

Body beautiful

22

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15 Glos Books & Arty Barty Back to School 2015.indd 34

PRIMARY TIMES

25/08/2015 11:45:06

. ..

G IN N IN W E H T T IT’S NO ...it’s the running, hopping, skipping, dancing, tug-of-warring, teacher gunging, cake baking and generally feeling brilliant about pushing yourself and trying something new to help others that counts.

Sport Relief is back on Friday 18th March 2016.

So get a head start and order your free Fundraising Event Pack today at sportrelief.com/pack Sport Relief is an initiative of Comic Relief, registered charity 326568 (England and Wales); SC039730 (Scotland) Photo credit: Gary Moyes.

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12/08/2015 16:06

Open Evening

Thursday 24th September 2015 6.30 - 8.30pm

Severn Vale School is a popular 11-16 Academy on the southern fringe of Gloucester City, recently recognised as one of the top 100 schools nationally for sustained improvements in exam results.

For further information, please contact the school office.

Parent walk rounds commencing at 9.30am-11.00am on: Thursday 2nd October, Thursday 9th October & Thursday 16th October Headteacher: Richard Johnson BSc (Hons), NPQH Tel: 01452 720458 E-mail: svs@severnvaleschool.com

PRIMARY TIMES

p23.indd 3

School Lane, Quedgeley, Gloucester, GL2 4PR

BACK TO SCHOOL 2015 23

25/08/2015 12:23:19

THE PAULINE QUIRKE ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS

IS ENROLLING NOW

IN STROUD! Outstanding Performing Arts tuition for 4 - 18 year olds.

FREE

OPEN DAY S A 26TH SEPTE TURDAY M 1.45 - 5PMBER

Academies run on Saturdays from 9.45am - 1pm and 1.45 - 5pm Find us at St Matthews Church of England Primary School, Church Road, Stroud, Gloucestershire, GL5 4JE Call FREEPHONE 0800 531 6282 or visit www.pqacademy.com p24.indd 1

21/08/2015 12:13:28