Glos Primary Times Back to School 2014

In association with

Also Online safety School open days Shaun the Sheep

in Gloucestershire Issue 131

1 Sept-24 Oct 2014

Dare to

dream!

Download the new Primary Times app, free! Page 3

Tweedy comes up roses in Everyman Theatre’s Sleeping Beauty. Page 4

Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

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We go Shaun the Sheep crazy this September as we peek behind the scenes of the new movie (P6), in preparation for Shaun’s big year in 2015, when he features in a schools design challenge and an arts trail.

We also explore a range of topics high on parents’ priority list, from online safety (P20) to the best way to approach choosing your child’s secondary school. Our Open Days feature (P16) arms you with all the right questions to ask.

On a personal note, I’m really excited as I become a primary school dad this year. My four-year-old, Joe, takes his first steps at school, so good luck to him, his classmates and all the other children starting their educational journey this month.

In association

with w

the editor

131 ershire Issue 1 Septin Gloucest Oct 2014

THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P11 PINBOARD P17 ADVERTISING FEATURES P18 CLASSIFIEDS P21 PUPILS’ PAGE P22 SHAUN TO BE WILD P6 Frances Stewart meets the makers of Shaun.

SCHOOL OPEN DAYS P16 How to ask the right questions and find the right secondary school for your child.

ONLINE SAFETY P20 Becki Murray on an accessible, safe web.

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Also ty Online safe School open days Shaun the Sheep

PRIMARY TIMES IS NOW AVAILABLE AS A FREE APP

Dare to

dream!

the Download ry new Prima Times app, 3 free! Page

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

ryman es in Eve es up ros uty. Page 4 Bea Tweedy com Sleeping Theatre’s

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 Abbie Grant abbie.grant@b-nm.co.uk 0117 934 3626 Caroline Stretton caroline.stretton@b-nm.co.uk 0117 934 3737 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.

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Find these amazing offers this issue!

Samurai Martial arts – Free karate trial classes Explore Learning – Free trial Scotch - Win a Scotch Magic Day + £5 gift voucher 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

Kelloggs.co.uk 27/08/2014 10:13:40

The Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, lays on a feast of fun with its annual pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, this autumn.

T

he summer holidays may have just ended but, behind the scenes, the Everyman has already turned its attention to preparing for its annual pantomime, “Oh yes it has!”

This year the theatre presents a perennial favourite, ‘Sleeping Beauty’. Back to cause more mayhem is Tweedy the clown, fresh from a season touring with Giffords Circus. And starring as Sleeping Beauty herself is Eleanor Brown, making her Everyman Theatre debut.

Alongside Tweedy and Eleanor will be many familiar faces, including William Elliott as the Dame, Kelli Maybank as Prince Charming, and Wendy Abrahams as the Good Fairy.

Geoffrey Rowe, chief executive of the Everyman says, “Eleanor was picked from over 25 hopeful young actresses for the part. She

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dream!

Dare to

looks great, sings like a dream and was by far the best.

I’m

early in the year but scenery has to be built and costumes made.”

Sleeping Beauty is the magical tale of the

be a superb addition to this year’s pantomime and I’m delighted to welcome her to the Everyman. I know it seems crazy to be planning panto this

princess destined by a curse to prick her finger on a spinning wheel and fall asleep for 100 years. This is

S Fri 2leeping B 8 e Ever Nov-Sunauty yman 11 Ja T www Chelten heatre, n .ever h ymanam sure org.u theatre she is k . going to

an enchanting story full of handsome knights and princes, an evil witch to defeat and a beautiful and sleepy princess to save. Add to that a dash of swashbuckling, some slapstick, a sing-a-long and a marathon sleepover – and you’re certain to have a really great time.

‘Sleeping Beauty’ opens on Fri 28 Nov and runs until Sun 11 Jan 2015. Tickets start from £9 for schools (with a family ticket starting from £52). Don’t be caught napping, book now either via the phone or online.

Other shows to watch out for include the welcome return of the ‘Chris and Pui Roadshow’ at 11am and 2pm on Fri 31 Oct; ‘The Sooty Show’ on Sun 15 Feb and ‘Sing-ALong A Frozen’ on Wed 18 Feb. Sleeping Beauty Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham T: 01242 572573 W: www.everymantheatre.org.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

27/08/2014 09:56:55

A high performing oversubscribed academy

Open Day & Evening - 23rd September 2014

Does your Child lack Confidence & Self Esteem?

Do they find it difficult to cope with the Pressure & Demands of School?

Do they need a little extra help with Arithmetic, Writing & Reading (up to GCSE higher tier)?

Specialised in helping children with learning difficulties and school ‘phobia’.

Background in Rudolf Steiner Education and Speech Therapy.

Winchcombe School is a small friendly school located in beautiful rural surroundings. The school has a reputation for high quality teaching standards that enable the students to reach their full potential.

With fewer than 500 pupils it means that the relationship between teachers and pupils is strong. This leads to exceptional behaviour, a fact recognised in April 2010 when the school was designated as a ‘Lead Behaviour School’, one of only 20 in the country.

Examination results are consistently above national average, we are however, continuously striving to improve upon our high standards.

You are invited to come and see for yourself on Tuesday 23rd September 2014. There will be guided tours between 9.30am – 11.00am and 6.00pm – 8.00pm, and the Headteacher will give an address at 6.15pm and 7.45pm.

Greet Road, Winchcombe, Cheltenham,Gloucestershire GL54 5LB T: 01242 602233 F: 01242 604211 E: admin@winchcombe.gloucs.sch.uk Registered in England and Wales No: 7606409

OPEN DAY THURSDAY 25 SEPT 2014 Ofsted rated Dene Magna School outstanding in all areas • Achievement is outstanding • Teaching is outstanding • Behaviour is exemplary • ‘A very supportive, caring and safe environment’

9am–1pm: School Tours/Taster Lessons 6:30pm–9pm: Open Evening Please contact the school to arrange personal tours at any other time

“All groups of students continue to make rapid progress�

(Ofsted, November 2012)

Abenhall Road | Mitcheldean | Gloucestershire GL17 0DU www.denemagna.gloucs.sch.uk T: 01594 542370 | F: 01594 544862 | E: reception@denemagna.gloucs.sch.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

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Supporting breakfast clubs for 16 years BACK TO SCHOOL 2014 5

27/08/2014 11:09:21

Shaun to be

wild

As ‘Shaun the Sheep Movie’ prepares to wow families next year, Frances Stewart gets a glimpse of the frenetic activity behind the scenes.

E

arly one Thursday morning, a taxi drops me off in a nondescript business park near Aztec West. I begin to wonder if I ‘m in the right place, or if I’m the victim of a strange practical joke. I ‘m here for a studio tour of Aardman Animations’ newest project ‘Shaun the Sheep Movie’, scheduled for release in February next year. Surely, an internationally renowned animation company making a Hollywood movie would be based somewhere more glamorous? Eventually, I spot an ‘Aardman Animations’ sign on a vast, unprepossessing shed-like building.

But inside it’s a different story. I’m ushered into a room packed with displays of Aardman’s many awards.

Posters of previous blockbusters adorn the walls, and a table of international Shaun the Sheep merchandise is a sight to behold.

But what really grabs my attention is the genuine passion and enthusiasm of the people who work here.

This becomes increasingly evident as the tour progresses. Everyone from the model makers to the directors and producers love what they do

with an utterly infectious passion.

Shaun made his screen debut, I learn, in Aardman’s third Wallace and Gromit short film, 1995’s ‘A Close Shave’. It was only a six minute appearance but long enough to propel him into the hearts of the nation. Aardman co-founder Dave Sproxton jokes, “It was partially as a result of Baby Spice being photo-

Primary Times reporter Frances Stewart holds an international movie star in the palm of her hand

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graphed wearing a Shaun the Sheep rucksack.” However, Shaun’s appeal has endured as he recently topped the poll of favourite BBC children’s characters of the past 70 years so it’s hardly a surprise that he now takes centre stage in his own feature film.

‘Shaun The Sheep Movie’ will see our woolly hero and his flock enter The Big City to fearlessly retrieve their farmer and rectify life on the farm after a harmless prank goes wrong.

We are treated to a short introduction to the film and the Shaun heritage by Sproxton and producer Paul Kewley. Sproxton is visibly pleased with the movie’s progress and points out that Aardman “started as a kitchen table hobby in 1976” and is now globally acclaimed. Kewley talks us through the plot, explaining that Aardman has remained faithful to the original concept of Shaun as a non-speaking character, which certainly presents its challenges over a feature-length film.

However, with expressive “baaa”-ing from Shaun and his flock, bemused mumbling from the farmer and stern “ruffs” from Bitzer the sheep dog, the dialogue will almost certainly be more entertaining than some movie

scripts we could think of. As director Mark Burton remarks, the style of humour is undeniably slapstick so words aren’t always necessary.

Next up, is the studio tour. The amount of effort put into the models is astonishing. As one model maker remarks, it is very much a labour of love. We are shown some of the clothes worn by the sheep and I‘m sorely disillusioned when I discover that they are not all little plasticine items. Nowadays, a more hi-tech foam latex is used, while senior model maker Anne King explains that using solid moulds is much better for continuity, as several pieces of the same item will be exactly the same size in every scene. But plasticine still has its place with an array of farm animals used in the film.

We’re shown an impressive street scene whose buildings stand about four feet tall. It’s packed with detail: there’s a miniature ATM machine in the wall of one building, tiny black bin bags tied up on the pavement, even miniature stickers stuck in a bedroom window. Art director Matt Perry says that the film has “an ultrarealistic feel to it. But it’s our job to make sure that you don’t really notice all this detail. It should just fit in.” As we continue around the studio, more details reveal themselves miniature graffiti under a motorway bridge, hanging baskets outside a fancy restaurant and a bicycle propped up against a wall.

Over a cup of tea, directors Richard Starzak and Burton, and producers Julie Lockhart and Kewley muse over the changing audience of animated films. Starzak and Burton both agree that whenever they make a film, they always want to make something that they themselves will find entertaining. And that’s the magic of Aardman; offering stories both childlike yet nuanced, broad yet detailed. Everyone is invited to join in.

Feeding 80,000 people breakfast across the UK, every day 27/08/2014 14:10:06

Our Foster Carers change lives, could you?

Stroud’s mixed comprehensive with Sixth Form invites prospective students and parents to our Open Evening Monday 6 October 2014 7.00pm – 9.00pm Open Mornings Wednesday 8 and Thursday 9 October Please contact the school for further details

Telephone: 01453 763242 www.archwayschool.net

Fosterplus need Foster Carers in this area. It’s a rewarding career that enables you to make a real difference to a Young Person’s life. Please check our website or give us a call for more information.

Call us on 01453 825 600 or visit www.fosterplus.co.uk

OPEN 10.00am-5.00pm Clearwell,Nr Coleford Telephone: 01594 832535 www.clearwellcaves.com

‘a great underground experience for all the family!’

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

Hansel& Gretel

Saturday 25th October Sunday 2nd November

Walk through an underground forest, following cakes and sweets, before arriving at the witch’s candy house!

Enter our free competition to win a wicked witch puppet.

Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd November Horse and Bamboo Theatre Co. present: Hansel & Gretel (suitable ages 5+)

…see our website for details - www.clearwellcaves.com

PRIMARY TIMES

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Give a child a breakfast: one box = one bowl BACK TO SCHOOL 2014 5

27/08/2014 11:10:50

FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS ★ GLOUCESTER, CHELTENHAM, STROUD & BEYOND 7pm (Mon). £7.50 (adult)/£6.50 (child/student) • Using polyphonic song and playful physical storytelling, this piece tells the adventure of Crab and her tragic obsession with the unknown as she leaves the safety of her village to journey across a vast and desolate frozen landscape. Suitable for 6+.

GLOUCESTERSHIRE EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk The Gruffalo Tue 16-Wed 17 Sep, various times, Studio Theatre, £12 (adult)/£10 (child) • Tall Stories’ hit musical stage adaptation of the award winning picture book, a family treat with plenty of songs, laughs and scary fun. Suitable for 3+.

Alice In Wonderland Sat 11 Oct, 2pm. Studio Theatre. £10.50/£9 (conc) • Lewis Carroll’s Wonderland is brought to the stage in a whirl of strange contraptions, handmade puppets and extraordinary characters which brings Alice’s adventure to life.

Sleeping Beauty Fri 28 Nov-Sun 11 Jan, various times, £13-£21 • The classic fairy tale is this year’s Everyman panto, with Tweedy the Clown.

Match Fri 5-Wed 24 Dec, various times, £7.50 • Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s ‘The Little Match Girl’, this is a heart-warming, magical and life affirming tale for all the family. Experience beautifully inventive storytelling, puppetry, song and live music with a signed performance on Mon 22 Dec at 1.45pm.

PARABOLA ARTS CENTRE Parabola Arts Centre Auditorium, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham GL50 3AA. 01242 707338. www.parabolaartscentre.co.uk Tweedy’s Magic and Mayhem Show Sat 20 Sep, 1.30pm. £7.50 • Tweedy has had enough of being the magicians’ assistant and has decided it’s time to be a magician instead. Unfortunately, all does not go to plan, leading to more mayhem than magic in this funny, family show.

Mugyenkyo Taiko Drummers, Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, Sat 11 Oct.

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Oh no! It’s The Gruffalo at Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham, Tue 16-Wed 17 Sep.

ROSES THEATRE The Roses, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 5NX. 01684 295074, www. rosestheatre.org Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers Sat 11 Oct, 7.30pm, £10-£20 • Spectacular drumming performances based on the Taiko drum by a troupe which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.

Shakespeare’s School Festival Mon 13-Tue 14 Oct, 7pm, £6.75£8.75 • Local school pupils perform Shakespeare as part of a nationwide drama festival to celebrate the Bard’s 450th birthday.

The Story Giant Wed 29 Oct, 2.30pm, £6.25-7.50 • Explore folklore, myth and fairytale from around the world and meet ghosts, talking skulls, monsters and dragons in an adventure to find the last story on earth.

Adapted from the book by Liverpool poet, Brian Patten.

Suitable for 7+.

Beauty and the Beast Sat 29 Nov-Sat 3 Jan, various times. £10-£23 • Complete with a host of ‘it’s behind you’s’, ‘Oh yes he did, Oh no he didn’ts’, this pantomime about falling in love with the most

unlikely of beasts is a perfect Christmas family treat.

FURTHER AFIELD THE EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www.theatreroyal.org.uk Robin Hood Until Sun 31 Aug, 8pm (Wed, Thu and Sun), 5pm and 9pm (Fri and Sat), £13 (adults)/£9 (children and concs) • A thrilling adaptation of Robin Hood promising swashbuckling action with a 21st century edge. Join Robin and his band of Merry Men as they continue their mission for justice and equality. Suitable for ages 10+.

The Queen’s Knickers Sat 20-Wed 24 Sep, various times. £7.50 (adult)/£6.50 (child/students) • What would you do if you lost the Queen’s pants? Find out when Dilys, the Queen’s maid does, causing a national state of emergency in this comedy piece by two actors. Suitable for 3+.

The Curious Scrapbook of Josephine Bean Fri 26Sat 27 Sep, various times. £7.50(adult)/£6.50 (child/student) • Discover who Josephine Bean was in this scrapbook of memories which slowly becomes a window into a secret world.

Suitable for 7+.

Once in a Blue Moon Fri 3-Sat 4 Oct, 1pm (Fri), 11.30am, 3pm (Sat). £7.50 (adult)/£6.50 (child/ student) • It’s the moon’s birthday and he is having a party. With dance, live music and audience participation, this journey into space introduces you to some curious characters. Suitable for 3+ Where the White Stops Sat 11-Mon 13 Oct, 11.30am, 3pm (Sat),

THE BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org. uk The Little Table of Delights Wed 24 Sep-Sat 4 Oct, various times, £8/£5 • Join pirouetting beetroots, eggs telling bad yolks, and a feast of food tales in this participatory picnic. Children can sample bite-size tasters (nut-and meat-free with gluten/dairy-free options available) and learn about the provenance of food while award-winning chefs transform raw ingredients in front of their eyes. This theatrical tasting will tickle their taste-buds and ignite their imaginations. Suitable for ages 7-12.

Bristol Family Arts Festival Sat 18 Oct–Sat 1 Nov, various times • Over the October half term, the Bristol Old Vic will be a hub of excitement and activity. The Bristol Family Arts Festival will feature daily shows including ‘The Great Big Story Mix Up’ and foyer performances. Suitable for children of all ages.

THE BRISTOL HIPPODROME St. Augustine’s Parade BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www.atgtickets.com/ bristol Barnum Tue 16–Sat 27 Sep, 7.30pm (Mon-Sat), 2.30pm (Thu 25 & Sat 20 & 27), £12.50-£49.50 • This Cameron Mackintosh and Michael Harrison musical charts the irrepressible imagination and dreams of Phineas T Barnum, “America’s Greatest Showman”. Brian Conley stars as P.T. with Linxi Hateley as Chairy.

ROYAL VICTORIA PARK BA1 2NQ. 020 3375 3970. AND DURDHAM DOWNS Stoke Road, B59 1FG 020 3375 3970, www.moscowstatecircus. com Moscow State Circus: Park Gorkogo Wed 17-Thu 21 Sep (Bath), Wed 1-Tue 12 Oct (Bristol), 5pm & 7.45pm (Wed, Thu, Fri), 3pm & 6pm (Sat), 2pm & 5pm (Sun), £10-£35 • This new production by one of Russia’s greatest cultural exports promises thrills, spills and laughs aplenty as it recreates Moscow’s cultural quarter as the backdrop to its world class circus performances.

PRIMARY TIMES

85% of schools have breakfast clubs 27/08/2014 14:36:24

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Contact Kathryn on 01242 221271 www.11plustutoringacademy.co.uk 11plustutoringacademy@gmail.com

PRIMARY TIMES

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For further information 01242 237 431 www.cheltenhammuseum.org.uk

Kelloggs.co.uk BACK TO SCHOOL 2014 5

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Supporting breakfast clubs for 16 years PRIMARY TIMES

27/08/2014 11:18:03

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 October, November and December 2014: deadline Mon 22 Sep. 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!

SEPTEMBER UNTIL SUN 21 SEP FOR KING AND COUNTRY Newark Park, Ozleworth, Wottonunder-Edge, Gloucestershire, GL12 7PZ. 01793 817 666 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/newark-park. Wed-Sun, 11am-5pm. Standard admission applies • Marking the First World War centenary, this exhibition tells the story of two Newark characters who made a significant contribution and sacrifice to the war effort; one by serving in the Royal Flying Corps, the other at the Standish Red Cross Military Hospital.

UNTIL SAT 27 SEP COIN CURIOSITY Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, near Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 3LJ. 01242 890256. www. nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworthroman-villa. Standard admission applies. Every Saturday. • Have you ever found a coin and wondered what it was? Take it along to Chedworth Roman Villa, where a specialist in ancient coins will show you a whole range of coins from Victorian and Roman times.

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 normal admission charge • 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. Book on arrival.

UNTIL SUN 28 SEP MEET REX The Wilson ‘Cheltenham’ Art PRIMARY TIMES

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Cheltenham Literature Festival (Fri 3-Sun 12 Oct) attracts authors including (from left) Cressida Cowell, Jacqueline Wilson and Michael Rosen).

Gallery & Museum, Clarence St, Cheltenham, GL50 3JT. 01242 237431. www.cheltenhammuseum.org.uk. last entry 4pm. £6 (adult)/£5 (child)/free (child under 4)/£18 (family) • Explore the world of dinosaurs with the latest modern technology. Meet a life-size replica postosuchus and others, discover where they lived and what they ate as well as enjoying puzzles and games. Lunch packages available.

UNTIL SAT 8 NOV WOW! NATURAL HISTORY EXHIBITION Gloucester City Museum & Art Gallery, Brunswick Road, Gloucester, GL1 1HP. 01452 396131. venues.gloucester.gov.uk. Standard admission applies • Discover the museum’s more quirky aspects and inhabitants. With fascinating animal facts, hands-on activities and lots to see from an elephant skull to a pickled shark, a museum spokesperson says ‘You are bound to say ‘Wow!’.

UNTIL MID NOV AUTUMN COLOUR AT BATSFORD ARBORETUM Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9AB, 01386 701441. arboretum@batsfordfoundation.co.uk. www.batsarb.co.uk. 10am-5pm, £7 (adults)/£6 (concs)/£3 (children ages 4-15), £17 (family) • Home to one of the largest private collections of trees and shrubs in the country, the 56 acre arboretum is a treat not to be missed from midOctober to mid-November when the trees put on a show-stopping display of reds, golds and yellows.

Explore the many meandering paths and streams before enjoying afternoon tea at the Garden Terrace café.

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

water-dwelling creatures and their habitats. Hold frogs, toads and newts from his collection.

UNTIL WED 24 DEC GUIDED WALK Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT, 01453 891223, www.wwt.org. uk, 11am, general admission applies • Join the volunteers as they walk round the centre, explaining its history and its avian inhabitants. The walk usually lasts an hour but visitors are free to wander at any time should something catch their eye.

UNTIL SAT 27 DEC ARCHERY, AIR RIFLE AND CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING Prescott Shooting, Pinnock Wood Farm, Winchcombe, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 5AX. 01242 673542, www.prescottshooting. com, last Saturday of every month, from £20 • ‘Have A Go Days’ for archery, air rifle and clay pigeon shooting. Perfect for beginners or seasoned pros, it promises to be a day out to remember. Children must be 10+ years.

TUE 2 SEP MYTHICAL MASKS Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2BX. 01285 655611. www.coriniummuseum.org. 10.30-11.30am. £1 per child • Choose your favourite Roman god, from Jupiter to Venus, and create a mask to take home.

should have something for everyone with attractions including a variety of traditional steam engines, a good culinary selection, an ale fair hosted by The Red Lion Inn, and airsoft paintballing, a climbing wall, archery and ferret racing.

SAT 6- FRI 19 SEP GLOUCESTER HISTORY FESTIVAL Various locations, City Centre, Gloucester, Gloucestershire. 01452 207020. gloucesterhistoryfestival. co.uk. Tickets required for talks.

• Celebrate the city’s 2000 years of history with parades, re-enactments and a weeklong series, ‘History Talks’, Blackfriars Priory.

WED 10 SEP THE BIG BATSFORD BAT WALK Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9AD. 01386 701 441. www.batsarb.co.uk.

8pm-10pm. £10 with 50% donation to the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust • Intrigued by bats and keen to learn more? Get along to this wildlife walk and discover everything you ever wanted to know about these shy creatures with a Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust expert. Places limited.

Booking essential.

THU 4 SEP MOTH NIGHT AT BATSFORD Batsford Arboretum, Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9AD. 01386 701441. www.batsarb.co.uk.

8.30pm. Adults £5/child £3 • Learn about moths with Warwickshire moth expert Bob Cox and the rest of the BBC N Deavour moth group.

Booking needed in advance.

WED 10 SEP BBC WORLD WAR ONE AT HOME LIVE Kings Square, Gloucester, GL1 1LA. 0117 974 7472. www.bbc.co.uk/ ww1. 10am-5pm. Free admission • Discover the dramatic impact the war had on Gloucestershire as BBC World War One at Home comes to Kings Square, with hands-on activities, performances, and interactive sessions suitable for all ages.

Visitors also have the opportunity to meet experts from the Imperial War Museum.

SAT 6-SUN 7 SEP NORTHLEACH STEAM AND VINTAGE SHOW Eastington Road, Northleach, Gloucestershire, GL54 3PJ. www. northleachsteamshow.co.uk, 10am5pm (Sat) 10am-4pm (Sun). £5 (adult)/free (under 16s) • This show

SAT 13 SEP HERITAGE OPEN DAY: FREE ENTRANCE Chedworth Roman Villa, Yanworth, near Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 3LJ. 01242 890256. www.nationaltrust.org. uk/chedworth-roman-villa, free » BACK TO SCHOOL 2014

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27/08/2014 10:09:07

Whole School Open Morning – Saturday 27th September 2014 10.00am -12.00pm

Giving young people the confidence to achieve

Wycliffe makes

the difference Small class sizes, individual learning and superb facilities lead to life-changing opportunities and excellent results. Daily mini bus service available.

Wycliffe Nursery, Preparatory, Senior School & Sixth Form For more information please call: Charlotte Phillips (Senior) on 01453 820412 or Wendy Robertson (Preparatory) on 01453 820471.

Wycliffe, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 2JQ Twitter @WycliffeCollege | www.wycliffe.co.uk

Create personalised bookmarks for your kids to take back to school this autumn!

Persuading children to do their reading can be a challenge, but designing and using their own bookmark is a sure fire way to encourage them!

Maggy Woodley, shares her easy steps to create an easy back to school bookmark You will need: • A copy of a favourite picture • Coloured card • Ribbon • Beads • Hole punch • Scissors (adult/children’s) • Scotch Magic Tape

Step 1 Trim your images to size and place onto the coloured card. Cut around the image leaving a 1cm border of card, ensuring you leave a larger 2-3cm section at the top of the bookmark Step 2 Secure the photo to the card with a strip of Scotch Magic Tape. Repeat this until the whole bookmark is covered with the tape, front and back Step 3 Make a mark on the top of the card with a pencil where the hole should be made for the ribbon detail and punch a hole

Step 4 Thread beads onto your ribbon and secure them with a knot. Thread the ribbon through the bookmark and secure with another knot Step 5 Place your finished bookmark in your child’s reading book. Using a pen or pencil, you and your children can write straight onto the tape to keep a track of the books they have read during the school term.

For a full step-by-step guide, and further ideas and inspiration on how to use Scotch Magic Tape for a range of everyday uses visit www.facebook.com/ScotchUK.

Scotch Magic Day?

Fancy winning your See stickered packs for your chance to win your Scotch Magic Day, including a range of activities: Spa, Beauty, Dining, Driving and more 3M, Scotch, Magic and the 3M logo, the Scotch logo, and the Magic logo are trademarks of 3M Company.

To enter and for full terms and conditions visit www.facebook.com/ScotchUK. Competition closes: 31 December 2014.

TM

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BACK TO SCHOOL 2014

PRIMARY TIMES

27/08/2014 11:19:34

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

• Take advantage of free entry to Chedworth Roman Villa and catch a guided tour to learn all about the history of the site.

Blackman and five further former and current Children’s Laureates.

Look for (CLF) in the listings below for our pick of this year’s events.

SAT 13 SEP FAMILY ROLLER DISCO Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, GL50 1QA. 0844 576 2210. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk. 7pm. £8 (skaters, includes skate hire)/£2.50 (balcony, spectator) • Dust off your skates and find some neon leg warmers in this family “mega roller disco” session.

FRI 3 OCT MICHAEL ROSEN (CLF) The Sunday Times Garden Theatre, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www. cheltenhamfestivals.com. 4pm-5pm. £8 • Former Children’s Laureate, million-selling author and Book It! guest director Michael Rosen shows how you can use everything around you to learn more, and that the best kind of education really does start at home.

SAT 13-SUN 14 SEP BIRD FEEDER FUN Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8QS. 01666 880220. www.forestry.gov. uk/westonbirt. 01666 880220.

10am–4pm. Standard admission applies • Find out how to make simple winter bird feeders from natural materials.

TUE 16 SEP COMMUNITY FASHION SHOW Wheatsheaf Pub, 283 Old Bath Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL53 9AJ. 01242 241412. 7pm, £5 (adv)/£6 (door) • See new clothes from M&S, Wallis, Country Casuals, Next and more, with the opportunity to buy with cash or on card at bargain prices and in a range of sizes. Bar and raffle also running.

THU 18-SUN 21 SEP GIFFORDS CIRCUS Fennells Farm, Lypiatt, nr Stroud, GL6 7LJ. 0845 459 7469. www. giffordscircus.com. 6pm (Thu and Fri)/10am, 4pm, 7pm (Sat)/11.30am, 2.30pm, 5pm (Sun). Adults £22/ child £14 • A riotous rip-roaring 90-minute swords and sandals epic. Expect Tweedy the clown and his Trojan horse, a pack of hounds plagued by spots, and a contorting nymph, all alongside the usual hijinx, live music and chaos created by the Greek gods themselves.

SAT 20 SEP COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS Parabola Arts Centre Auditorium, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AA. 01242 707338. www.parabolaartscentre.co.uk. 2.45pm. £7.50.

Suitable for 6+ • Entertainment for all ages with comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… without the rude bits.

OCTOBER FRI 3-SUN 12 OCT CHELTENHAM LITERATURE FESTIVAL: BOOK IT! (CLF) Various venues throughout Cheltenham. Box office 0844 880 8094. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com • Cheltenham’s ‘festival within a festival’, specifically for families and young readers. Spread over 10 days, Cheltenham welcomes over 600 of the finest writers, poets and actors, with plenty of activities and fun events for all the family. Guests include Michael Rosen, Malorie

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FRI 3 OCT HENRY WINKLER (CLF) The Sunday Times Garden Theatre, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www. cheltenhamfestivals.com. 6.15pm7.15pm. £7 • Henry Winkler, aka the Fonz, has a new generation of young fans following the success of his ‘Hank Zipzer, the World’s Greatest Underachiever’ books – now the number one TV show on CBBC. Joined by Nicky Cox, ‘First News’ children’s newspaper editor, Henry talks about overcoming the challenges of dyslexia, reads from his books and answers all your questions.

FRI 3-SUN 12 OCT WATERSTONES CHILDREN’S HIDEAWAY (CLF) Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www. cheltenhamfestivals.com. 9.30am6pm. Free • Discover the fantastic children’s book tent – browse through all the delightful books on offer and meet your favourite authors after their event. Plus, pop in for a fabulous programme of free events and activities every day through the festival.

SAT 4 OCT MICHAEL MORPURGO AND HELEN STEPHENS (CLF) The Sunday Times Garden Theatre, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www. cheltenhamfestivals.com. 10-11am. £7 • There’s magic and adventure afoot when Mimi finds a baby dragon in the woodshed. Join Michael Morpurgo and Helen Stephens for this spellbinding event as Michael reads from their latest book together ‘Mimi and the Mountain Dragon’ while Helen brings the story to life before your eyes with live illustration.

SAT 4 OCT HELLO KITTY (CLF) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com, 10.30am-11am. £6 • Hello Kitty celebrates her 40th anniversary this year. Join in with some fun filled birthday activities, with an appearance from the global icon Hello Kitty herself.

SAT 4 OCT MAISY MOUSE (CLF) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals.

ROUNDABOUT com, 12.15pm-1pm. £6 • Join Maisy, everyone’s favourite mouse, for storytelling, songs and fun alongside her creator Lucy Cousins and storyteller Liz Fost. Plus, meet Maisy herself after the event!

SAT 4 OCT CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY (CLF) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com. 1.45pm-2.45pm. £6 • What magical wonders await you at this unique occasion celebrating 50 years of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’. Join former Children’s Laureate Michael Rosen and Guardian journalist Lucy Mangan for a fun conversation about all things astonishing, perplexing and intriguing about the story, plus quizzes, film clips, readings, music and more.

SAT 4 OCT PETER AND THE WOLF AND OTHER RUSSIAN TALES (CLF) The Spiegeltent, Montpelier Gardens, Cheltenham, GL50 1UW. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com.

2pm-3pm. £7 • Join Little Wolf Gang for an enchanting performance of Prokofiev’s much loved children’s musical tale. Storyteller Martin Maudsley and three virtuoso musicians on accordion, bassoon and violin serve up a new interpretation of the piece, performed alongside two other marvellously musical tales from Russia.

SAT 4 OCT HORRIBLE SCIENCE (CLF) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com. 5pm-5.45pm. £6 • Well known for illustrating the bestselling, multi award-winning Horrible Science series, Tony De Saulles leads an event packed with facts, drawing and fun! To coincide with the new editions of the Horrible Science books, the event promises to teach kids all the dreadful details the teachers won’t.

SAT 4 OCT MALORIE BLACKMAN (CLF) The Inkpot, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com. 11.45am-12.45pm. £7 • Blackman is in conversation with Michael Rosen, talking about her bestselling ‘Noughts & Crosses’ series, why she enjoys writing for teens and her current role as Children’s Laureate SAT 4 OCT DINOSAUR COVE (CLF) The Studio, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com. 10am-10.45am. £6 • Step into the late cretaceous period, when dinosaurs roamed the earth, with dinosaur expert Chris Jarvis from the Oxford University Museum of Natural History. Get a chance to examine the fossils on which the characters and stories are based and find out how paleontologists interpret their finds.

Dinosaur fun for everyone!

Bird Feeder Fun, Westonbirt Arboretum, Sat 13-Sun 14 Sep

SUN 5 OCT MICHAEL ROSEN (CLF) The Inkpot, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com.

11.45am-12.45pm. £7 • Meet the festival’s guest director as he shares his love of poetry and stories in this fun-filled and interactive event.

SUN 5 OCT ANGELINA BALLERINA (CLF) The Studio, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com.

1pm-1.45pm/2.30pm-3.15pm. £6 • Don’t miss the chance to see Angelina’s adventures brought to life before your eyes by her creator Katharine Holabird, together with a real ballerina.

SUN 5 OCT POP UPS WITH JENNIE MAIZELS (CLF) Parabola Dance Studio, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com, 10am-12pm. £16 • Jennie Maizels is a pop-up book making expert, whose books include ‘Pop-up London’. Join her to try your hand at making your very own pop-up book.

SUN 5 OCT ROBOTS AND BEASTS WITH CHRIS JUDGE (CLF) Queen’s Hotel, Regency Suite, The Promenade, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1NN. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com, 10am-10.45am. £5 • Meet this year’s Book It! cover designer and award-winning illustrator Chris Judge and hear all about his new character ‘Tin’.

SUN 5 OCT OKIDO WORKSHOP (CLF) Queen’s Hotel, Regency Suite, The Promenade, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1NN. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com, 1.15pm-2pm. £5 • Join the team from Okido for a workshop of arts, crafts and games taken from their recent publications

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® 2014 BACK TO SCHOOL

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

Give a child a breakfast: one box = one bowl PRIMARY TIMES

27/08/2014 11:22:06

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

ROUNDABOUT ‘The New Small Person’ and ‘The Crocodile Under the Bed’ and how childhood memory and imagination has played into their own creativity.

Recommended for ages 9+.

Elmer is 25 in Cheltenham on Sun 12 Oct, while the Gruffalo (right) chalks his 15th birthday on Wed 8 Oct.

SAT 11 OCT RSC THEATRE WORKSHOP: THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE (CLF) Parabola Dance Studio, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com, 12.45pm-2.15pm. Adults £12/ children £8 •������������������������� Take part in a fun family workshop and work as an actor does, on your feet! No previous acting experience or knowledge of the play required. Approach the play from the first day of rehearsal, exploring the characters on your feet and speaking the language. »

‘My Animal Book’ and ‘Let’s Play a Game’, a fun first look at science.

SUN 5 OCT (CLF) HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON WITH CRESSIDA COWELL (CLF) The Inkpot, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com. 3.15pm-4.15pm. £6 • Join Cressida Cowell, author/illustrator of the fabulous book series and DreamWorks movie franchise ‘How To Train Your Dragon’. Learn some Dragonese and get the scoop on seeing book characters brought to life for the big screen.

SUN 5 OCT DENNIS THE MENACE (CLF) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com, 11.30am-12.15pm. £6 • Becoming the master of menacing is not easy. If you want to learn the rules join Steven Butler, author of brand new book series ‘Diary of Dennis the Menace’. Expect lots of fun and games.

SUN 5 OCT SHAUN THE SHEEP MODEL MAKING (CLF) Parabola Dance Studio, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com, 1pm-2pm. £8 • An interactive event to celebrate the forthcoming Shaun the Sheep movie and new ‘Tales from Mossy Bottom Farm books’. Join Aardman’s model maker in a hands-on workshop and make your own clay Shaun to take home.

SUN 5 OCT MINECRAFT (BCLF) Guildhall, High St, Bath, City Centre BA1 5AW. 01225 463362. www.bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature, 5.15pm-6pm. £6 (age 6+) • Love the game Minecraft? Find out some tips and tricks at this session with Fyre UK, writers of ‘The Minecraft Construction Handbook’. Book early.

SUN 5 & SUN 12 OCT FREE FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY (CLF) Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www.

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cheltenhamfestivals.com. 11am2pm. Free admission • Join the fun with storytelling, dressing-up, free arts and crafts activities, traditional Punch and Judy shows, circus skills, and face-painting.

See how many children can fit into Captain Underpants’ giant pants, be amazed at Christopher Lloyd’s giant Wallbooks on Sunday 12 October, and much more.

WED 8 OCT HAPPY 15TH BIRTHDAY, GRUFFALO (CLF) The Studio, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com. 4pm-4.30pm. £4 • Meet the Gruffalo down in the deep dark woods and join in the birthday fun with Gruffalo stories and activities.

SAT 11 OCT TOPSY AND TIM GO CAMPING (CLF) Queen’s Hotel, Regency Suite, The Promenade, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1NN. www. cheltenhamfestivals.com, 10am10.30am. £5 • Have fun with Topsy and Tim as they leap from book to screen. Join Sian Richardson for tip-top storytelling, games and a make- and-do craft session all about your favourite twins.

SAT 11 OCT PEPPA PIG (CLF) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com, 11.30am-12.15pm/1.15pm-2pm. £6 • Giggle and snort your way through a riotous event with the irresistible Peppa Pig. Enjoy interactive storytelling and the chance to meet your favourite pig in person.

SAT 11 OCT CELEBRATING CLASSIC PICTURE BOOKS WITH LAUREN CHILD AND JUDITH KERR (CLF) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com. 4.30pm-5.30pm. £6 • Lauren Child and Judith Kerr have created some of the most memorable and recognisable children’s book characters, from the ‘Tiger Who Came to Tea’ to ‘Charlie and Lola’. Together they discuss their new picture books

Superhuman. From how we keep cool to how memories are made in the human brain, Prof. Winston explores the extraordinary processes behind ordinary body functions.

SUN 12 OCT JACQUELINE WILSON (CLF) Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com, 1.30pm-2.30pm. £7 • Don’t miss this chance to hear the wonderful Jacqueline Wilson talking about her 100th book, ‘Opal Plumstead’. Set in Edwardian England, Opal is fiercely intelligent but her scholarship and dreams of university are snatched away when her father is sent to prison.

SUN 12 OCT DESIGN YOUR OWN JEWELLERY (CLF) Queen’s Hotel, Regency Suite, The Promenade, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1NN. www. cheltenhamfestivals.com, 10am10.45am, £5 • Design your own jewellery with stickers, glitter, sequins and paper crafts with artist and designer for Topshop, Hennie Haworth.

SUN 12 OCT KIPPER’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY (CLF) The Studio, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com. 2.30pm-3.15pm. £6 • Kipper the Dog is 25 in 2014! Join in the celebrations at his birthday party, with games, activities and fun with professional storyteller Liz Fost and, of course, Kipper himself.

SUN 12 OCT CRAFTY DOLLS (CLF) Parabola Dance Studio, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com, 10am-12pm. £16 • Join Jane Bull, author of award-winning craft books, to make your own loveable, gloveable doll. Take old and odd gloves and Jane will show you how to upcycle them into one of the cute dolls from her latest DK book ‘Crafty Dolls’.

SUN 12 OCT 25 YEARS OF ELMER (CLF) The Studio, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com, 4pm-4.45pm. £6 • Join Elmer the patchwork elephant to celebrate his birthday. Get dressed in your brightest colours for a fun-filled storytelling event, Elmer’s parade and the chance to meet the loveable patchwork elephant himself.

SUN 12 OCT CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS (CLF) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com . 11.30am-12.15pm. £6 • Join the author of the successful ‘Captain Underpants’ series, Dav Pilkey, as he celebrates the colourful new editions as well as the brand new book in the series, Captain Underpants and the Tyrannical Retaliation of the Turbo Toilet 2000.

SUN 12 OCT THE PARENT AGENCY WITH DAVID BADDIEL (CLF) The Inkpot, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1QB. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com, 11.45am-12.30pm. £6 • Author, screenwriter and comedian David Baddiel invites you into the hilarious world of ‘The Parent Agency’: one day Barry makes a fateful wish and finds himself in a world where everything is upside down.

SUN 12 OCT SUPERHUMAN WITH PROFESSOR ROBERT WINSTON (CLF) Parabola Arts Centre, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, GL50 3AH. 01242 707338. www.cheltenhamfestivals. com, 1pm-2pm. £6 • Professor Robert Winston takes a unique look at the human body in his new book

SAT 18 OCT CHARITY SHOPPORTUNITY AT BEAUDESERT PARK SCHOOL Beaudesert Park School, Minchinhampton, Gloucester, GL6 9AF. 9am-4pm, £3 (adults)/under 16s go free • Popular annual charity shopping event selling gifts, accessories, ceramics, home wares and clothing from over 20 stalls, most of which are Cotswold-based. Look out for William’s Kitchen’s pop up oyster bar or the Jolly Nice Café’s stall.

All proceeds go to Wiltshire Young Carers.

SAT 18-SUN 19 OCT SPOOKY CREATURES DAY Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8QS. 01666 880220. www.forestry. gov.uk/westonbirt, 10am–4pm.

Standard admission applies • Get into the spooky spirit by getting face to face with the scarier species of wildlife. Meet and learn about snakes, spiders, frogs and toads and get involved with all the fun and games.

LISTINGS BY ELLEN WHITE, FRANCES STEWART AND BECKI MURRAY

BACK TO SCHOOL 2014

15

27/08/2014 10:10:20

A

door

to the future

It’s vital to be well informed before deciding on a new school for your child. Frances Stewart discovers how to get the most out of school open days.

E

very autumn, hoards of parents and prospective pupils descend on secondary schools for their open days. These are exciting glimpses into the future, as a large chunk of a child’s school life is spent in secondary school, so choosing the right one can seem like a monumental decision. However, if approached with a sense of curiosity and interest, open days have a lot to offer. Gloucestershire councillor Paul McLain, cabinet member for

Do’s and don’ts

DO be guided by your child.

Do they look interested in the school? Are they overwhelmed by the size?

DON’T do all the talking on your child’s behalf. As they will eventually be the ones attending, encourage them to ask questions and talk to teachers and current pupils.

DO plan your visit with your child. Discuss what you want to gain from the visit and what you want to find out. It can be useful to plan a small list of questions before you go.

DON’T try to shorten the length of your visit. See every available classroom, sit through any presentations made by staff and talk to as many pupils as possible.

The more information you can gain, the more informed your final decision will be.

DO make notes. Open days can sometimes seem to bombard visitors with information. Writing it all down at the time and then reading over it when you get home can help to refresh your memory and decide whether you still feel the same way about the school afterwards.

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Clockwise from top left: Dene Magna School, Mitcheldean; sports at Wycliffe College, Stonehouse; Maidenhill School, Stonehouse.

children and young people, points out, “It won’t be as scary when a child starts secondary school if they know what to expect and can visualise the setting.”

An open day really gives parents and children a chance to gauge the feel of a learning environment. Sophie Morris, former student at The Red Maids’ School in Bristol, agrees. “The atmosphere of the school when I went to visit really appealed to me and helped me to make up my mind.”

Although a parent’s role at an open day is important, the child is really the indicator of whether or not the school is the right place for them. Cllr. McLain says parents can see how their children react to each school and take that into account when making a decision. Sandra Morris, Sophie’s mother agrees, “It’s important for children to attend open days with their parents, as this decision affects the rest of their lives.”

As school open days occur within the same few weeks, it’s important to be practical when deciding which ones to attend. Neil Hall, headteacher of Winchcombe School in Cheltenham, advises that location is key. “Choose to visit the school that you feel is best suited to your child. Consider your home location compared to that of the school. Don’t set your heart

on getting a place at a town centre school if you don’t live in town. Demand for secondary places is very high and you don’t want to be disappointed.”

An open day can benefit from forward planning. “Although we didn’t always have specific questions to ask, we made a point of attending the headteacher’s talk at every school,” says Sandra Morris. “This usually covered everything that we wanted to know.”

Make a list of things that are important to you and your child, Neil Hall suggests, including the subjects offered, after school activities, recent exam results and future plans for the school such as building developments. Cllr McLain stresses the importance of asking questions relevant to your child. “Some examples might include asking how classes are structured, what the homework policy is and what pastoral support is offered.” However, it’s never a good idea to look round a school with a list of unnegotiable necessities. If your child really loves somewhere, it is often worth the sacrifice of a homework club or some extracurricular activities.

Although open days are designed to be as straightforward and helpful as possible for parents and prospective students, it does help to come prepared. If you know exactly what you want to gain from an open day, it can offer a special insight into school life.

Local school open days Please note, some schools require visitors to book a place on an open day or evening, so please contact schools individually for further information before attending.

SAT 20 SEP RENDCOMB COLLEGE Nr. Cheltenham, Gloucestershire 9am W: www.rendcombcollege.org.uk

TUE 23 SEP WINCHCOMBE SCHOOL Greet Road, Winchcombe, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 5LB 9.30am & 6pm W: www.winchcombeschool.co.uk T: 01242 602233 THU 25 SEP DENE MAGNA SCHOOL Abenhall Road, Mitcheldean, Gloucestershire GL17 0DU 9am & 6.30pm T: 01594 542370 W: www.denemagna.gloucs.sch.uk THU 25 SEP SEVERN VALE SCHOOL School Lane, Gloucester, Quedgely, Gloucester GL2 4PR 7pm T: 01452 720458 W: www.severnvale.gloucs.sch.uk SAT 27 SEP WYCLIFFE COLLEGE Bath Road, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 2JQ 10am T: 01453 822432 W: www.wycliffe.co.uk TUE 30 SEP (EVENING), WED 1 & THU 2 OCT (MORNING) MAIDENHILL SCHOOL Kings Road, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire GL10 2HA 9.15am & 6.30pm T: 01453 822469 W: www.maidenhill.gloucs.sch. uk MON 6 OCT (EVENING), WED 8 & THU 9 OCT (MORNING) ARCHWAY SCHOOL Paganhill, Stroud, GL5 4AX 7pm T: 01453 763242 W: www.archwayschool.net TUE 7 OCT (MORNING) & THU 9 OCT (MORNING & EVENING) NEWENT COMMUNITY SCHOOL Watery Lane, Newent, Gloucestershire GL18 1QF 10am & 6pm T: 01531 820550 W: www.newent.gloucs.sch.uk TUE 7 OCT (MORNING) WYNSTONES SCHOOL Church Lane, Whaddon, Gloucestershire, GL4 0UF W: www.wynstones.com

85% of schools have breakfast clubs 27/08/2014 10:00:45

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Ffi: 11+ Tutoring Academy T: 01242 221271 E: Kathryn on 11plus tutoringacademy@gmail.com

A fostering story Andrew joined Sally and David when he was five. He’d been severely neglected and in five months had experienced four foster placements.

“When he arrived with us the impact of the neglect was very apparent,” says the couple.

“He had difficulty walking and would often fall. His speech was extremely delayed also. Initially, the progress was slow and improvements were small.

There were times when Andrew would regress, wanting us to reject him.

“The training we received really helped us understand his behaviours.

We still have difficult days, but these are outweighed by good days.”

It’s now agreed that Andrew will live with Sally and David permanently, a huge relief for them all. If you want to make a difference to a child’s life, just as Sally and David have, get in touch with FosterPlus today.

Ffi: FosterPlus W: www.fosterplus.co.uk

®

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A feel for life at Rendcomb As the summer holidays draw to a close, families start to think about the new school year. For Roland Martin, headmaster Roland Martin at Rendcomb College in Cirencester, term starts in September and quickly gets to open morning. At Rendcomb, the open morning provides an excellent opportunity for families to visit, meet the headmaster, staff and pupils and really get a flavour of the school. It is so important for parents and students to get an initial buzz at open morning, and to feel that they will belong and thrive in this community.

Rendcomb is located on a substantial 220 acre Cotswold estate. It is a school with a family feel and the headmaster has been tipped by The Telegraph and Good Schools’ Guide as one of 10 heads to watch on a national level.

To find out more about Rendcomb and see if this is the school for you, register for the open morning on Sat 20 Sep. Ffi: Rendcomb College T: 01285 831213 E: admissions@ rendcomb.gloucs.sch.uk W: www.rendcombcollege.org.uk

New facilities for Wycliffe Prep It’s been a hive of activity at Wycliffe Prep School over the summer holidays.

The wonderful new languages and humanities teaching block opened its doors in September, a state-of-the-art learning environment which offers the very latest in classroom technology, set within a modern and stylish building.

Other areas of the campus have also been transformed, with boys’ boarding rooms having a fabulous makeover, newly upgraded science laboratories and a snazzy new art room.

There is much excitement and a real buzz around Wycliffe. Scholarships are available for academic, art, music, drama and sports disciplines, together with means-tested bursaries. Find out more as Wycliffe hosts its next open morning on Sat 27 Sep from 10am to 12 noon.

Ffi: Wycliffe Prep School T: 01453 820470 W: www.wycliffe.co.uk

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

Dress to impress Is your child dressing up for Roald Dahl Day (Sat 13 Sep), an historical learning day, a school assembly or production?

Are they going to any costume parties or simply just love to dress up? If so, The Ultimate Party Shop is a definite must.

The Ultimate Party Shop has a fantastic array of children’s costumes and accessories for you to create any outfit that you might need, from Roman to world war evacuees, Disney characters and pirates to animals and superheroes. Any teachers or parents wanting to join in will not be disappointed, either, as there’s a wide range of adult costumes too, alongside wigs, masks, make-up and other essential accessories.

Children’s favourite mascot characters are available to hire and prove very popular, providing memorable entertainment at your child’s party, as well as exciting balloon displays, piñatas, loot bags, banners and candles in lots of popular themes.

Ffi: The Ultimate Party Shop T: 01242 52443 W: www.ultimatepartyshop.com

The best seats in town!

Bristol has a wealth of intriguing history, breathtaking sights and interesting facts. Take advantage of all that this beautiful city has to offer by booking an educational tour with Bristol Insight, part of City Sightseeing, Bristol.

You can choose from a range of specially tailored, curriculum-led open top bus tours, guaranteed to educate, stimulate and excite.

The educational tours include ‘Brunel and Victorian Bristol’, ‘Where You Live’, ‘Maritime Bristol’ and ‘Bristol and World War Two’.

These highly popular trips are delivered by experienced guides, with a focus on interaction between guide and students.

New tours for 2014/15: • Bristol from the Iron Age to The Normans • Bristol and World War One. The buses can carry up to 75 students and can be hired for one, or a number of, trips - or all day.

Ffi: Bristol Insight W: www.bristolinsight.co.uk/ schools-children-history-tours

Kelloggs.co.uk 27/08/2014 10:06:09

Adver tising Feature

Learn An outstanding education for a bright future

FEE ASSISTANCE

Up to 100% Bursaries, Year 4 entry Up to 50% Ability Awards, Year 4 to 7 entry Outstanding boarding and day school for boys and girls, 4 to 13 years Dragon School, Oxford

A centre of excellence • Dene Magna School is a high achieving, outstanding secondary school located in the Forest of Dean. With 750 students and a team of dedicated staff, you can guarantee that your daughter or son will get the very best education there.

Dene Magna winners Dene Magna is unique in its climate for learning and genuine personalisation.

All members of the community are cherished and challenged to achieve their very best. The school works at the cutting edge of teaching, while also ensuring those vital traditional elements of education are not missed.

It offers a rounded curriculum as well as superb extra-curricular activities to complement the very best teaching. It also prides itself on the relationships it builds with all members of the community.

Get in touch to find out more, or visit the school on its open day on Thu 25 Sept.

Ffi: Dene Magna School T: 01594 542370 W: www.denemagna.gloucs.sch.uk

ENQUIRE

T: 01865 315405 E: enquiries@dragonschool.org www.dragonschool.org

Steiner Waldorf Education in Gloucestershire for children aged 3-18

OPEN MORNING Tuesday 7th October Educating with Imagination

Adver tising Feature

Fun at the Factory • At The Hampstead Factory, dance, drama and singing classes are physically and mentally stimulating, dynamic and fun! Sessions are designed to improve performance in film, on stage and, most importantly, in life. HF aims to build self-esteem, improve diction and aid team co-operation while encouraging independence, individualism and much, much more.

Suitable for all ages and abilities, HF offers 4-17 year olds the chance to pursue a career in the arts or to learn some exciting new skills which they can share with friends and family.

Each term offers a different project and work is credited towards the Arts Awards, a fun, interactive scheme introduced

by Trinity in 2010. Young people complete different tasks to progress through the levels and all modules raise participants’ motivation and aspiration. Through Arts Awards, students will learn to work independently and with others, building the skills they need for school, further education and employment.

HF also offers the opportunity to take musical theatre graded examinations through the IDTA. To find out for yourself, why not come along for a free trial? Classes take place at Bournside Sports Centre and Sir Thomas Rich’s Sports Centre in Gloucester.

Ffi: Hampstead Factory T: 07767 114823 W: www. thehampsteadfactory.co.uk

Telephone: 01452 429 220 Email:reception@wynstones.com www.wynstones.com

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PRIMARY TIMES

27/08/2014 11:04:02

Adver tising Feature

Want to be a musician?

• Young people in Gloucestershire are invited to a free session of music making in November, as part of the First Access scheme run by Gloucestershire Music (GM), the county’s music education service. Students will be given the chance to try a clarinet, trumpet, baritone saxophone or violin and meet GM’s team of experienced tutors in one of the six GM music centres across the county.

If they enjoy the session, young people will be able to hire an instrument of their choice and join their chosen music centre where lessons will be provided. The only requirement is to be aged 7 or above and have a desire to learn - no musical knowledge is necessary. Parents are also encouraged to learn alongside their child if they wish.

Sessions are on offer at the following times and locations: Forest of Dean Area Wind Band Sat 8 Nov, Lakers School, 12.30pm-2.30pm Five Valleys Music Centre (Stroud and District) Sat 8 Nov, Archway School, 9.30am–12.30pm Brookfield Music Centre (Gloucester & Cheltenham) Sat 8 Nov, Sir Thomas Rich’s School, 11am-2pm Tewkesbury Music Centre Fri 7 Nov, Tewkesbury School, 4.306pm Newent Music Centre Wed 12 Nov, Newent School, 4-6pm Cirencester Music Centre Tues 11 Nov, Deerpark School, 4-6pm After the first free introductory lesson, the First Access scheme costs just £50 for nine lessons which includes the hire of an instrument. For full details, fees and bursaries, check out the First Access section on GM’s website.

Ffi: Gloucestershire Music W: www.gloucestershiremusic.co.uk

Adver tising Feature

Turn again for Nigel • From a “love rat” in ‘Coronation Street’ to King Rat in ‘Dick Whittington’, the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, hosts one of the UK’s best known actors, Nigel Havers, as the baddie in its famous and enchanting pantomime, which runs from Sat 6 Dec to Sun 4 Jan. Nigel has been a star of stage and screen for 40 years and is well-known for a variety of roles. He starred recently as the unfaithful Lewis Archer in “Corrie”, for which he won Best Exit at the 2013 British Soap Awards. He also appeared in another of ITV’s top shows, when he starred in the Christmas Special of ‘Downton Abbey’.

Also starring David Ashley as Sarah the Cook and Lucy Kane as Alice Fitzwarren, this production will be spectacularly brought to life with an abundance of comedy, stunning sets and fabulous costumes – plus, as you have come to expect from the Wyvern Theatre’s annual pantomime, Dick Whittington promises plenty of audience participation.

Ffi: The Wyvern Theatre Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN T: 01793 535536 W: www.swindontheatres.co.uk

®

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An OFSTED rated ‘GOOD’ school - 2014 Schooling from 7 - 16 including GCSE

Confidence Building Individual Programmes

Affordable Provision, Small Class Sizes

In the Heart of Gloucester by the Cathedral Manda and Phil Brookes EJS Extra - Tutoring for 6-16 years in Maths, English, Science and CEM 11+

01452 380808 info.ejs@gmail.com www.edwardjennerschool.org.uk

Supporting breakfast clubs for 16 years 27/08/2014 11:04:27

The safety net The internet is a fact of life for most 21st century children. Becki Murray explores ways to make sure it’s safe.

F

rom the child who runs up hundreds of pounds in phone bills on inadvertent “in-app” purchases to the 10-year-old who stumbles across adult content online, parents are frequently reminded of the new dangers brought to us by the internet age. Online activity is a growing component of young people’s lives as Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, reported in 2013.

It said that 82% of 5 to 7 year olds and 96% of 8 to 11 year olds now use the internet while the same figures reported that 11% of 9 to 16 year olds have encountered sexual images online in the last 12 months.

Whether using search engines to help with their homework or social media to talk to friends, children clearly face risks online. It’s equally clear, however, that they can’t be barred from using their devices entirely and parents need to proactively manage their children’s internet activities to reduce the risks to an absolute minimum.

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As many experts pointed out, the world wide web is a public place where anyone can create content, while any content you or your children post may be visible to a global audience. In the same way that they discuss the dangers of the outside world with their children parents can have a similar conversation with children about online safety.

Author and former police officer Kate Power stresses that there’s no substitute for discussing these issues with your children. She suggests using scenarios to make conversations interactive, a method she has used with her own children. “Instead of telling a child, ‘Don’t talk to strange people online!’, parents can ask specific questions about situations children may encounter,” says Power. “Try asking, ‘What would you do if you accidentally clicked on something which made you uncomfortable?’” Her book ‘My Underpants Rule’, which chimes with the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, offers practical, easily understood advice to 4 to 8 year olds about their private areas. The overriding message is “What’s under my pants belongs only to me.” This approach allows children to think for themselves, Power insists, and ensures they understand how to react in the event of an inappropriate suggestion. The method avoids distress by focusing on proactive prevention rather

than the consequences of making a mistake and children feel that their safety comes before any punishment for the actions they report.

Beyond this, there are a range of controls parents can deploy if they’re not one hundred percent confident of their child’s sense of internet safety.

Many internet search engines now have easily activated ‘SafeSearch’ features, while childfriendly search engines such as Swiggle only display search results appropriate for children.

Kate Power Other measures include establishing time limiting rules and only allowing internet use in a parent’s presence.

More advanced technology can monitor and control your children’s browsing. For example NetGenie, a product by UK antivirus specialist Cyberoam, offers security solutions already used by schools to the home. It filters content based on your child’s age and sets internet-off ‘bedtimes’, without affecting parents’ online activity. Simon Muir of the Bristol IT Company, which supplies the product says, ‘It does what any responsible parent needs, protecting children, without making them feel constrained.”

Meanwhile, you can be confident of online safety in your child’s school, says Nick Yates of North

Somerset Council, if it has an E-Safety Mark.

This recognises “a good level of policy and provision of e-safety across the whole school community.” Schools in North Somerset, he says, also use a broadband service, the South West Grid for Learning, which will not permit access to any sites listed by the online monitoring organisation Internet Watch Foundation.

The internet itself has plenty of advice on protecting children online. The NSPCC and Internet Matters websites, as well as the Police’s Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (CEOP), engage all ages with internet safety. They contain information for parents such as how to start conversations about children’s computer use as well as explaining how to report online activities which have upset or unnerved either themselves or their child.

If you’re at all worried about your child’s internet activity, of course, don’t hesitate to suspend their computer usage and turn to CEOP or the NSPCC for guidance.

CEOP www.thinkuknow.co.uk Gloucestershire Council www. gloucestershire.gov.uk Internet Matters: Online Help www.internetmatters.org My Underpants Rule! by Kate Power www.ustarnovels.co.uk, £6.99 Net Genie www.bristolitcompany.com/netgenie.

NSPCC Online Safety www. nspcc.org.uk PRIMARY TIMES

27/08/2014 10:01:45

Classifieds Party Ideas

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Interactive play for all ages Opening Hours Mon-Sat: 10.00-5.00 Sun: 10.30-4.30 Last admittance half hour before closing.

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

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

To reach 39,000 families in your area advertise in the next issue of Primary Times.

Contact Caroline tel 0117 934 3737 email carroline.stretton@b-nm.co.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

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®

Room for Hire Suitable for crèche and toddler groups.

A very welcoming community building run by the charity HWCP Additional meeting rooms and office space at competitive rates.

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

Feeding 80,000 people breakfast across the UK, every day MAY HALF TERM 2014 5

27/08/2014 12:14:39

Hello Kids!

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

I am getting excited about the new school year and the season of bonfires and fireworks so next issue I would love you to send me pictures of My favourite thing about autumn.

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 22 September.

Arty Barty You have sent me lots of pictures about ‘Making my favourite meal’. Well done to the winners who receive a family ticket to Bristol’s fabulous science centre At-Bristol and its new Food! exhibition. , Hannah Thomas 6, St Sampson’s Infants School, Cricklade This beaming cook is happily s ou preparing a delici s meal. Hannah ha ed tur cap y successfull the fun, skill and excitement of cooking.

WINNER!

Have fun!

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

WINNER!

Lloyd Ca A splendid and rosi, 9, Sandford Primary Sc lemons, grapes anmouth-watering bowl of fruit, withool, Winscombe d pineapples perfe h the busy colou rs of the ctly balanced ag ainst the calm, sol bowl. The fly adds id blue humour, too.

Erin Rainey, 10, Beacon Rise Primary School, Kingswood Big, bold, vibrant colours spring out of this painting, rather like the carrots bursting out of Erin’s plot of land.

Nicholas Nikiforou, 7, Kewstoke Primary School, Weston-superMare Regular contributor Nicholas has a rich use of colour, which gets the taste buds tingling.

Write now!

Becki Murray reviews the new releases.

Noisy fun From the author of Pippi Longstocking, comes this reissued edition of ‘The Children of Noisy Village’. Meet Lisa, her brothers and her friends and explore the countryside in which they live, in this engaging collection of stories for younger or less confident readers. From Lisa’s seventh birthday party to her summer adventures, via the time she endured a great snow storm, these stories cover all seasons and activities, accompanied by drawings by Tony Ross.

The first person narrative and simple sentence structure mean the descriptions are easy to follow but very enjoyable, allowing children to read on their own or with the help of an adult.

The Children of Noisy Village by Astrid Lindgren, Oxford University Press, £4.99, www.oup.com

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Want to know how to switch on your brain cells and think up some great ideas?

How about ways to present your work well? Find answers to these and more in ‘How To Write A Story’. Bursting with hints and tips, it aims to help all aspiring young writers write barmy beginnings, magnificent middles and incredibly exciting ends!

With clear headings to guide youngsters along the way and help with creating crazy character names and the perfect plot, the book provides lots of activities and plenty of space for writing alongside inspiring artwork by Kate Pankhurst. The advice is clear, simple and entertaining, great for young children itching to write.

How To Write A Story by Simon Cheshire, Bloomsbury, £5.99, www.bloomsbury.com

PRIMARY TIMES

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