Primary Times Gloucestershire Christmas 2014

in Gloucestershire Issue 133 Also Last minute presents Modern manners

The

11 Dec 2014-12 Feb 2015

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Christmas

Season’s greetings with a difference at Gloucester Quays Festive Fayre. Page 4

Download the new Primary Times app, free! Page 3

Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

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advertisement FeatUre

What children need for

NUTRITIONNEWS

MARISA PEER is a leading nutritionist who is passionate about educating people to feed their children real and natural food for both their physical and mental development and well being.

Sunshine in a bowl for breakfast: the goodness of cereal to help them learn, plus a taste they’ll love

®

O

ur kids are often bundles of energy, both at home and at school. But when they’re learning, it’s important to give them the right fuel. studies show that those pupils who have a good breakfast regularly perform better at school compared with those who skip their morning meal.* Breakfast is the first chance children have to eat anything after going for hours without food while asleep. so they need to refuel before a busy day ahead at school. it’s not just their bodies, their brains need the right food too. their little brains work better with about 25 grams of glucose in their bloodstream**. But often it can be difficult for parents to get the right balance between the nutrition that they want their kids to have, and the taste their kids enjoy. a serving of Kellogg’s cereal and milk provides five nutrients that experts agree children need to grow – protein, calcium, iron, vitamin B and the ‘sunshine vitamin’, vitamin d. they’ll enjoy the sunshine in a bowl, while you

can feel reassured you’re giving them a heathy start to their day.

Cereals like oats, rice and corn release glucose slowly so that children have steady glucose levels, giving children better focus and attention levels. it also sends a message of fullness to the brain helping growing bodies feel satisfied for longer.

Kellogg’s makes balanced cereals for your kids, that taste good and are also a

and breakfast can be so quick and easy to prepare, especially if you live in a busy household where the mornings are often a rush.

Your kids will also love getting involved in thinking up their own variations, such as warm milk in the winter, and in the summer using cold milk or yoghurt, or adding some fresh fruit. a fun way to ensure they get a balanced breakfast.

Who knows? they could even make their own cereal,

B VITAMINS are found in wholegrain and help your body make energy from food. Some cereals contain 6 B vitamins .

IRON Infants, teenage girls, pregnant women and the elderly are those most at risk of iron deficiency.

giving you a few more precious minutes in bed…

We all want to send our children to school happy with enough fuel inside them to keep them healthy, alert and ready to learn. Giving them sunshine in a bowl is one great way to do it. to find out more visit kelloggs.co.uk Brought to you by

FROM CEREALS

VITAMIN D This ‘sunshine vitamin’ helps us absorb calcium so is essential for healthy bones.

A balanced breakfast sets your children up for the day ahead source of nutrients and vital vitamins. a good breakfast that will help a child do their best in class contains protein, cereals and milk to keep students full and alert for several hours. they also need carbohydrates in the form of cereals served with milk and or yoghurt and some healthy fats coming from seeds, milks and yoghurts.

These are the nutrients in cereals and milk that your children need to sustain them throughout the day

®

FROM MILK PROTEIN is essential for growth. A lack of protein can cause poor muscle maintenance.

CALCIUM maintains strong teeth and bones, nerves, muscles and the secretion of certain hormones and enzymes.

For more information visit kelloggs.co.uk * Rampersaud GC, Pereira MA, Girard BL, Adams J, Metzl JD. (2005) Breakfast habits, nutritional status, body weight, and academic performance. J Am Diet Assoc. 105:743-760 **Gibson, E. L. (2007), Carbohydrates and mental function: feeding or impeding the brain?. Nutrition Bulletin, 32: 71–83. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-3010.2007.00606.x

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© 2014 Kellogg Company

21/11/2014 16:07:16

It’s the time of year when children’s pester power reaches a peak. But parents have a secret weapon up their sleeves, too. “Put it on your Christmas list and if you’re good, Santa may bring it for Christmas.” The strategy has extracted me from many a shop over the years with nerves and wallet just about intact. But if you still need some extra presents, check out our last minute gift guide, with everything available locally so you don’t have to rely on the post (P6).

Next year, Bristol is Europe’s Green Capital and we look at how schools and families can get involved in this exciting initiative (P16), working for a sustainable future for us all.

THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P11 PINBOARD P17 ADVERTISING FEATURES P18 CLASSIFIEDS P21 PUPILS’ PAGE P22 LAST GASP GIFTS P6 A page of seasonal treats.

SIMPLY CAPITAL P16 Bristol is the UK’s first European Green Capital. Daisy Bartholomew gets involved.

MODERN MANNERS P20 the editor

133 -12 Feb 2015 ershire Issue 11 Dec 2014 in Gloucest

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

Also Last minute presents ners Modern man

PRIMARY TIMES IS NOW AVAILABLE AS A FREE APP The

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

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Christmas

the Download ry erence at new Prima with a diff re. Page 4 Times app, greetings 3 free! Page Season’s Quays Festive Fay r Glouceste ey! mon Save ndabout • Barty • Rou Theatre • Arty

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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: Proof reading: 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 Ellen White Emma Gorton, Ruth Wood 0117 942 8491

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

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

While we make every effort to ensure information published is accurate, readers are encouraged to check details of all events in advance and neither Bristol News & Media nor its contributors are liable for the consequences of any errors. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in the county for their assistance in distributing the magazine and their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or the relevant contributor.

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

PRIMARY TIMES

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Find these amazing offers this issue!

Cotswold Farm Park – One child free with a paying adult.

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

Richardson Hotels – Kids go free for February half term.

Dick Whittington Farm Park - One adult free with paying child.

JDR Karting - Book any karting session and get one free game of laser tag.

The Hampstead Factory Free trial and 50% off first term fees with January registration.

CHRISTMAS 2014

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25/11/2014 14:08:01

The

Quays to

Christmas

Gloucester Quays Outlet offers seasonal greetings with a difference as its Festive Fayre returns bigger and better than ever!

Y

ou’ll find a wonderful range of Christmas festivities in Gloucester’s Historic Docks this winter as Gloucester Quays Outlet Shopping brings you its annual Festive Fayre. The Quay’s waterside area is transformed into a bustling, festive celebration, with merry entertainment, seasonal food and drink and live music for the whole family to enjoy.

The Festive Fayre arrives in town on 12 – 14 December, bringing the spirit of Christmas to life with an enchanting market full of wonderful Christmas finds.

Tick off your Christmas list at the fayre with over 80 tempting producers boasting the finest seasonal produce from around the country and even further afield.

From sweet and savoury chutneys, cheese specialists, artisan chocolates and sweets, to gingerbread houses, hot roasted chestnuts, Christmas cake and fine wine. You can even place your turkey and meat orders for Christmas day at the specialist stalls!

Pick up unique handcrafted gifts for friends and family and last-minute touches to create the perfect setting at home, including

Expect some “Frozen” activities at Gloucester Quays’ Festive Fayre.

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locally grown Christmas trees, handmade decorations, wreaths, scented candles and seasonal plants.

After your seasonal shopping spree, take some time-out as you wander through the twinkling Christmas lights and treat yourself to a creamy hot chocolate and festive-filled crepe. Watch as live music, including brass bands and choirs, plus fun and festive street entertainment and even real life reindeers, bring the market alive.

Gloucester Quays Outlet is the perfect place to make your money go further, with savings of up to 70% off RRP! The Outlet boasts over 60 stores, including high street favourites M&S Outlet, Next Clearance and Gap Outlet. There are designer brands including the new Chester Barrie store, Ghost, Hawes & Curtis, The North Face,

Allsaints, Crew Clothing, Calvin Klein, LK Bennett and Le Creuset.

Meanwhile, the Jacques Vert Group Outlet houses its portfolio of nine elegant British brands including, Jacques Vert, Planet, Precis Petit, Windsmoor, Alexon, Eastex, Dash, Minuet Petit and Kaliko, plus an onsite health and fitness centre, The Gym. The fabulous dining and leisure quarter plays host to an array of restaurants including popular Italian restaurant, Zizzi, Mexican favourite, Chimichanga, Pizza Express, Nando’s, Ed’s Easy Diner, Coal Grill & Bar and Portivo Lounge. It’s also the home of the brand new 10-screen Cineworld cinema.

For more information visit www.gloucesterquays.co.uk or follow Gloucester Quays Outlet on Twitter @GloucesterQuays PRIMARY TIMES

26/11/2014 11:48:20

Christmas at

6-7th, 13-14th, 20-24th Dec

6tH & 7tH 13tH & 14tH

Food&drink Arts&CrAFts GiFts&toys 10Am  5.30pm Free pArkinG HiGH QuAlity, FresH Cut, loCAl CHristmAs trees

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

ARTS AWARDS ✩ PERFORMANCES ✩ COMPETITIONS ✩ PARTIES ✩ WORKSHOPS

Confdence for life

PRIMARY TIMES

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Saturday sessions in Gloucester and Cheltenham

Drama + Dance + Singing Fun + funky learning for ages 4 to 17 yrs old

tAurus CrAFts, lydney, Glos, Gl15 6bu www.tAurusCr AFts.Co.uk  01594 844841 Find us on tHe A48 west oF lydney

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Amazing New Year Offer - attend a FREE trial & register* in JANUARY to receive 50% off your frst terms fees!

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THE HAMPSTEAD FACTORY t: 07767 114823 • e: info@thehampsteadfactory.com w: www.thehampsteadfactory.co.uk

Find us on facebook

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Last gasp gifts

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

Daisy Bartholomew finds out what’s available near you. luck for 2015. This ‘grow your own lucky clover’ includes everything you need to grow the plant, with seeds and compost pallet included, it will keep the kids entertained as they watch it grow over the Christmas holidays. £4, Hawkin’s Bazaar. Bath, BA1 1QH W: www.hawkin.com

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Monopoly Sometimes the traditional games are the best. This classic board game will get the whole family together this Christmas, pitting generations against each other in fast dealing, hotly disputed trading. The game comes complete with iconic cards, tokens and enough pretend cash to make you feel rich for an afternoon. £9.99 The Works, Gloucester GL1 5SH. W: www.theworks.co.uk

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Grow Your Own Lucky Clover A unique Christmas gift that could bring lots of

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Campervan Colin This wooden campervan, detailed and painted throughout, is a sweet Christmas idea. It even comes with wooden people figures and a little doggy, too. £29.95 Crocodile Toy Shop, Gloucestershire,GL7 2PR. W: www.croco diletoys.com

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Paint your Own Jigsaw Robot Design and build your robot jigsaw and then paint it with the selection of bright paints included.

A fun, quirky gift with its own individual design. £4.99 Vinegar Hill. Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.

GL50 1NL. W: www.vinegarhill.co.uk

1NS. W: www.water stones.com

Bunny Soft Toy Cuddle up to this soft fluffy bunny in

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Miffy Recently voted the best classic book at the Junior Design Awards, Miffy remains a timeless tale of a small bunny and her family, experiencing life in all its richness.

To celebrate, there’s a veritable warren’s worth of produce, with Miffy available as a plush toy, a jigsaw puzzle, a calendar, an apron and a wipe-clean book, as well as those loveable, childfriendly books. £4.95£19.99 Waterstones, GL1

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the cold winter nights.

Sure to become a much loved addition to your children’s soft toy collection this Christmas. £23.

Aspace, Bristol, BS8 2QN. W: www.aspace.co.uk

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Vintage Christmas Tutu This gorgeous colourful handmade Tutu is the ideal Christmas gift.

Be the fairy on top of the Christmas tree when wearing this sparkly hand-stitched ribbon Tutu. £30, Moodle’s. Bristol BS7 8NU. W: www.moodles.biz

PRIMARY TIMES

26/11/2014 12:28:15

A TOTAL COUNTRYSIDE EXPERIENCE

SPECIAL 1 CHILD FREE WITH A PAYING ADULT

Valid until 21st December 2014

PT DEC GL

OFFER 1 voucher per adult. No cash alternative. Please present voucher on admission.

www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk

Passionate about Learning Cotswold Education specialises in individual one-to-one tuition to support you and your child through their school years and beyond. Our next public event is:

Grammar School Information and Mock Test Morning Saturday 14th February 2015 09.45-11.45 in Cheltenham Our very popular Grammar School Information Morning includes presentations on how to apply for grammar school, the tests used for selection and how to help your child with test preparation.

There is also a short mock assessment for year 4 and 5 children to try out a test under supervised, timed conditions. You will be sent a report on your child’s performance within seven days. The total cost of the event is £35. Places are limited so please contact us for further information and to book a place

Tel 01242 572392

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

ADVERTISEMENT

P

A Prinknash Wonderland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PRIMARY TIMES

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

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

‎ THE BACON THEATRE Dean Close School, Shelbourne Road, Cheltenham GL51 6HE. 01242 258002, www.bacontheatre.co.uk Ali Baba & the 40 Thieves Wed 21-Sun 25 Jan, £10-£16 • Promenade Productions with this classic tale of Ali Baba’s adventures attempting to stop the evil Mustapha Lot from stealing an all-powerful sword. Can he save the day? “Oh yes he can!” Book direct with Promenade’s Showcase box office. T: 01241 224144 EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www.everymantheatre.org.uk Sleeping Beauty until Sun 11 Jan, various times, £13-£21 • This version of the classic fairy tale features the hilarious antics of Tweedy the Clown.

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

THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7HG. 01242 522852 www. cheltplayhouse.org.uk Children of Eden Until Sat 6 Dec, 7.45pm/matinees 2.30pm (Sat only), £10/£12 • Jacob’s Well Productions tell biblical tales from the creation to the Great Flood. Relationships are made and strained as all come to understand what it means to be connected as family.

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Tue 16-Wed 31 Dec, various times, £8-£15 • One of the best-loved Christmas stories, A Christmas Carol tells the journey of discovery for Ebenezer Scrooge, notorious miser and Christmashater. Visited by three ghosts, Scrooge is taken through his past, present and future in search of the true meaning of Christmas: is it too late for him, or does the festive season hold the key to his redemption? Io Theatre Company brings its trademark mix of live music and dynamic physical theatre.

ROSES THEATRE The Roses, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire 8 CHRISTMAS 2014

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Swallows and Amazons, Bristol Old Vic until Sat 17 Jan.

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

Treasure Island Thu 22 Jan & Wed 18 Feb, 7pm (22 Jan), 2.30pm (18 Feb), £5-£15 • Jim, the innkeeper’s granddaughter, opens the door to a terrifying stranger.

At the old sailor’s feet sits a huge sea-chest, full of secrets. Jim invites him in and a dangerous voyage begins. Ages 10+

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

THE BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org. uk The Magic Elves until Sun 3 Jan, various times. £13/£7.50 • Life is a party for the Magic Elves. They love to play, dance and be very silly! But they get a shock when they move to an old shoe shop

and realise not everyone is as happy as they are. The Magic Elves must help put a smile back on the shoemaker’s face in time for the Christmas Disco. Ages 3+.

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

Room on the Broom Tue 31 MarThu 2 April, 10.30am (Wed & Thu) 1.30pm (Tue-Thu) 4.30pm (Tue), £12.50-£45 • The witch and her cat are flying happily along on their broomstick when a stormy wind blows the witch’s hat, bow and wand away into the night. Julia Donaldson’s tale is brought to life beautifully, animating the characters who help our heroine escape the hungry dragon. Ages 3+ THE EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www.theatreroyal.org.uk Rumpelstiltskin until Sun 4 Jan, various times, £17 (adult)/£12 (children and students) • A musical show for the family. This modern production retells the Grimm Brothers’ classic tale with plenty of magic, mischief and menace. See feature Page 4. Ages 8+.

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

music, lots of laughs and a screaming potato pancake. Ages 5+ The Comedy of Errors Fri 23 Jan-Sat 24 Jan, Fri 10.30am & 1pm Sat 2pm & 7pm, £10-£12, Ages 8+ • Pocket Comedy serves up Shakespeare’s tale of two sets of estranged twins, separated at birth, who find themselves in the same city 25 years later with hilarious consequences.

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

Bewitched by her dazzling characters, the King defers the execution for a thousand and one nights. But will he spare Shahrazad’s life forever? Ages 6+ THEATRE ROYAL Sawclose, Bath, BA1 1ET. 01225 823409. www.theatreroyal.org.uk.

Cinderella Thu 11 Dec-Sun 11 Jan, various times, £8-£29 • Classic fairy tale starring Dani Harmer of CBBC’s ‘Tracy Beaker’ fame as Cinderella. Treated as a servant by her wicked stepsisters, Cinderella needs all the magic her fairy godmother can muster, along with help from her best friend, Buttons, if she is to meet her Prince Charming and find true love before the clock strikes midnight.

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

THE TOBACCO FACTORY Raleigh Rd, Avon, Bristol, BS3 1TF. 0117 902 0060. www.tobaccofactory.com 101 Dalmations until Sun 11 Jan, various times, £8/£11/£15/£19 • Mr and Mrs Dearly love dogs, especially their two dalmatians, Pongo and Perdita. Cruella De Vil loves fur and doesn’t have much time for anything living. When Pongo and Perdita’s fifteen new-born dalmatian puppies go missing it doesn’t take a genius to work out who has kidnapped them – and now the clock is ticking before they’re gone forever. Warm hearted and playful, told with creative storytelling.

PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2014 14:19:49

THE COMPLETE “GO WILD�

NATIVITY ANIMALS CHRISTMAS TREAT See Santa & meet Rudolf Visit the Enchanted Christmas Cavern Nativity animals & pets encounter Christmas Play Barn Fun

Dick Whittington Farm Park

ONE ADULT

FREE

with this advert VALID UNTIL 5.1.15

Little London, Longhope, Gloucestershire, GL17 0PH.

Tel: 01452 831000

NATIVITY ANIMALS

www.dickwhittington.org

Christmas Special 19th - 24th December (then open 27th Dec to 5th Jan)

INDOOR HEATED PLAYBARN

ALSO OPEN

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CHRISTMAS 2014 9

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Confidence Building Individual Programmes

Affordable Provision, Small Class Sizes

Part-time School for Home Educated Children In the Heart of Gloucester by the Cathedral

01452 380808

info.ejs@gmail.com

Manda and Phil Brookes EJS Extra Tutoring for 6 -16 years in Maths, English, Science and CEM 11+ Open Day - Saturday 17th January 11.00am until 1.00pm Please call in or contact us.

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CHRISTMAS 2014

Clearwell Caves Christmas Fantasy

www.edwardjennerschool.org.uk

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

www.clearwellcaves.com

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

Tel: 01594 832535

PRIMARY TIMES

21/11/2014 16:09:09

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

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

Discover the treasures on display at the Corinium Museum, Cirencester, on one of its Holiday Trails until Sun 4 Jan.

be familiar with stories of life in the trenches and the battlefields of the First World War, but what was it like for those on the homefront? This exhibition explores Gloucester during the Great War and examines the sacrifices, duties, jobs and social changes that the war brought about for those left behind.

DECEMBER

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

Standard admission applies • How do you catch a duck with a dog? Watch Slimbridge’s own furry canine assisting with conservation work as birds are caught and ringed in the decoy nets. Book your place at the admission desk.

UNTIL SUN 21 DEC ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS AT WESTONBIRT Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8QS. 01666 880220. www.forestry.gov.uk/ westonbirt. Every Fri, Sat and Sun 5pm-8.30pm, £10 (adults)/£8 (concs)/£5 (children) • A spectacular, mile-long illuminated trail through Westonbirt’s trees and winding paths. Also featuring stilt walkers, the Christmas Fairy, giant reindeer, Father Christmas, carol singing and festive refreshments.

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

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!

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 Wetlands Centre, 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.

UNTIL SUN 4 JAN CLEARWELL CAVES CHRISTMAS FANTASY Ancient Iron Mines, Near Coleford, Royal Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, GL16 8JR. 01594 832535, www.clearwellcaves. com.10pm-4pm, £9 • Wonderful seasonal scenes tell the story of ‘The Perfect Christmas Tree’ where the Tuppence family search for their perfect tree and ways to bring it home. Meet Father Christmas, then walk through the amazing displays. Half way through the caves, an underground Christmas Market sells gifts, decorations and stocking fillers. On Sat 13 Dec, the Forest of Dean brass band plays seasonal music.

UNTIL SUN 4 JAN HOLIDAY TRAILS Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2BX, 01285 655611, www. coriniummuseum.org, 10am-4pm, Sun 2pm-4pm, £1 plus admission fee • Explore the treasures of the museum by following one of these fun holiday trails. Includes a prize at the end.

Carols at Gloucester Cathedral, Tue 23 Dec.

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UNTIL SAT 17 JAN WHAT DID YOU DO IN THE GREAT WAR, GLOUCESTER? Gloucester City Museum, 103 Westgate, St. Gloucester GL1 2PG. 01452 503050, www. gloucestermuseums.co.uk. 10am5pm (closed Mon). £3 (adults)/£2 (concs)/free (under 5s) • You may

UNTIL SAT 28 FEB GRUFFALO CELEBRATIONS Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire www.forestry.gov.uk, 9am4.45pm, £5 (adult)/£2 (child) activity pack for Gruffalo trail £2 • See above.

FRI 5 DEC ESJ LIVE: THE AUDITIONS Edward Jenner School, 4 Pitt Street, Gloucester. 07917 005259, office@therockfoundry. co.uk, 5-8pm, free • If you’re aged 11 to 20 and think you can sing, dance or perform, why not turn up at these free auditions (book first) to be considered for a 15 minute set at the Rock Foundry concert, Edward Jenner School’s first live music event, on Thu 18 Dec? Refreshments available.

FRI 5-MON 22 DEC CHRISTMAS FAIR. COTSWOLD CRAFTS Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2BX. 01285 655611. www. coriniummuseum.org. 10am4pm. Free admission to the Hare Gallery • In the run up to Christmas, there’s a wonderful selection of crafts in the Hare CHRISTMAS 2014

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26/11/2014 12:29:08

*

Kids go FREE Santa’s coming to Slimbridge...

for February half term.

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

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

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

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

Book a family stay during the school holidays at one of our 3 hotels in Devon & Cornwall and your kids go FREE! The Grand Hotel TORQUAY

The Falmouth Hotel FALMOUTH

The Grosvenor Hotel TORQUAY

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

Please contact us on

0800 005 2244

Quote Ref: PT06 email: reservations@richardsonhotels.co.uk *Rates are based on 2 adults & 2 children sharing a standard inland family room. Supplements apply for upgrades.

This offer is subject to availability & applies to new bookings only. Excludes Christmas and New Year.

Kids eat

FREE GIFT

fr e e

week days

BEFORE 5pm

ˆ

FOR EVERY K KID ID

THIS CHRISTMAS* From Saturday 13th to Wednesday 31st December Participating Table Table Restaurants

The Oakwood Tewkesbury Road Twigworth, Gloucester GL2 9PG 01452 730266

TERMS AND CONDITIONS ^ 1. This offer entitles one child to a free kids’ main meal per adult purchasing a main meal from the main restaurant menu at the same time. Breakfast, Light Bites, Bar Snacks, Daytime & Evening Value menu meals and all Set Menus are excluded. 2. Junior Meals are excluded. 3. This offer is valid Mondays to Fridays before 5pm. For full terms and conditions go to tabletable.co.uk/termsandconditions *Terms and conditions apply. Ask a member of the team for full details. While stocks last.

Horrible Histories® is a registered trademark of Scholastic Inc. and is used under authorization. All rights reserved. Based on the bestselling books written by Terry Deary and illustrated by Martin Brown. Illustration © Martin Brown

Till Code: 14553945

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CHRISTMAS 2014

PRIMARY TIMES

21/11/2014 16:06:33

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

gallery by local artists and craftspeople. Find inspirational gifts for everyone. Late night opening on Thu 11 Dec, 6-9pm.

SAT 6 DEC MODEL RAILWAY EXHIBITION Tithe Barn, Bishop’s Cleeve, Cheltenham, GL52 8LU. 01242 525920. www.cleevetithebarn. org.uk. 10am-5pm. Adults £4/ concs £3.30/children £3/family £9 • Plenty to see and do including steam and diesel layouts; model road vehicles; a modelling display and the chance to drive Thomas the Tank Engine.

SAT 6 DEC CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY Woodchester Mansion, Nympsfield, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire, GL10 3TS. 01453 861541. www.woodchestermansion.org.uk. 11am-2pm. £6.50 (adults)/free (Under 14s) • Meet Santa during one of the mansion’s open days.

SAT 6 & SAT 13 DEC MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS AND HIS REAL LIFE REINDEER! The Brewery,Henrietta St, Cheltenham, GL50 4FA. 01242 574378. www.thebrewerycheltenham.co.uk. 12 noon-4pm, free (charity donation suggested) • Back by popular demand, Father Christmas makes not one but two visits to the Brewery with two of his trusty companions before they make their round-the-world trip on Christmas Eve. Local people get the opportunity to pet the reindeer, have photos taken with them and meet the “main man” on his sleigh. Children receive a chocolate gift after Santa finds out what he should get them for Christmas. This charity event in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support suggests a minimum charity donation of £1.

SAT 6 & SAT 13 DEC PUPPET OPEN DAYS Bayshill Unitarian Church Hall, Royal Well Lane, Cheltenham, Glos, GL50 3ET. 01242 255820. 9.30am5pm. Adults £2/child £1/workshops £3 (incl materials) • Festive fun with puppet and toy theatre shows, Christmas tree and puppet making workshops, mince pies and a range of refreshments. Proceeds go to Children in Need.

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

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

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

SAT 6-WED 24 DEC SANTA CRUISES AT GLOUCESTER WATERWAYS MUSEUM Gloucester Waterways Museum, Llantony Warehouse, Llantony Road, Gloucester, GL1 2EH, 01452 318200, www.canalrivertrust.org. uk, 12pm-3pm, £9.50 • As children peer excitedly out of the windows to catch a glimpse of Father Christmas, the big man himself appears with the help of a spot of festive magic in his onboard grotto. Children are called up one-by-one to meet Santa and to receive their special gift, while the adults sit back and enjoy the proceedings with a mince pie and a hot drink.

MON 8 DEC TEWKESBURY SCHOOL CAROL SERVICE Tewkesbury Abbey, Church St, Tewkesbury, Glos, GL20 5RZ. 01684 850959. www.tewkesburyabbey.org.uk. 7pm, free • Tewkesbury’s annual school carol service, set in the ancient 12th century abbey.

FRI 12-SUN 14 DEC GLOUCESTER QUAYS FESTIVE FAYRE Gloucester Quays Designer Outlet Shopping Centre, St Ann Way, Gloucester, GL1 5SF. 01452 338933. www.gloucesterquays. co.uk, 10am-7pm/5pm (Sun), free • Purchase unique Yuletide gifts and tasty treats for your Christmas Dinner from the array of stalls.

Enjoy seasonal entertainment from bands, street performers and choirs, meet real-life reindeer and see the beautiful trees as you soak up the festive atmosphere around the historic Docks.

SAT 13-SUN 14 DEC A PRINKNASH WINTER WONDERLAND The Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester, GL4 8EX. 01452 812 727, enquiries@thebirdpark.com, www.thebirdpark. com, 3-6pm, £9.50 (adv) • With its own resident reindeer, Rudolf, Prancer and Comet, plus views of the park’s trees, lakes and birds lit “magically” for Christmas from its new visitor centre balcony, the park promises this will be a Winter Wonderland to remember.

SUN 14 DEC INK BLOWING Prema Arts Centre, South Street, Uley, Nr Dursley, Gloucestershire

ROUNDABOUT Festive Tudor Birds of Prey, Sat 27 Dec, John Moore Museum, Tewkesbury

GL11 5SS. 01453 860703. www. prema.org.uk. 2pm-4pm. £30 • Artist Dan Bennett shares tips and inspiration for some action painting for the whole family. Make your own big gestural drawings, explore mark-making and other techniques used in his exhibited work. Wear old clothes as it’s sure to get messy.

Great for families with children aged 6+.

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

WED 17-WED 24 DEC A PRINKNASH WINTER WONDERLAND The Bird and Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester, GL4 8EX. 01452 812 727, enquiries@thebirdpark.com, www.thebirdpark.com, 3-6pm, £9.50 (adv) • See also listing Sat 13-Sun 14 Dec. THU 18 DEC THE ROCK FOUNDRY CONCERT Edward Jenner School, 4 Pitt Street, Gloucester. 07917 005259, office@therockfoundry.co.uk, 6-8pm • Edward Jenner School’s first live music event for young people aged 11 to 20. Enjoy the results of the auditions held on Fri 5 Dec (see above).

SAT 20 DEC-SUN 4 JAN CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY FUN Dick Whittington Farm Park, Little London, Longhope, Gloucester, GL17 0PH. 01452 831000. www.

dickwhittington.org, 10am-5pm (excl. Christmas & Boxing Day but incl. New Year’s Day), one adult free with paying child, £6.50 (child 3+)/£5.50 (child 3 or under)/ £5 (extra adult) • Lots of Christmas holiday fun activities are lined up including an Enchanted Winter Cavern. Santa visits on a daily basis up to Christmas. Win a prize with the quizzes and I-Spy Trails and then have great fun in the indoor heated Play Barn. Winter Cavern Quiz £1.50.

MON 22 DEC DISCOVERY ZONE CHRISTMAS PAST Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencester, Gloucester,GL7 2BX, 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum.org, 2pm-3pm, included in admission fee • Join Emma Stuart for a look at vintage Christmas.

From shop display memorabilia to Christmas lights, jelly moulds to gorgeous wrappings. Everything ‘Christmas’ will be on display for you to enjoy.

TUE 23 DEC CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT GLOUCESTER CATHEDRAL Gloucester Cathedral, College Green, Gloucester, GL1 2LX. 01452 528095. www.gloucestercathedral.org.uk. 6pm. Free • Christmas carols in this spectacular setting, offering a traditional service with readings and the sound of the cathedral choir.

TUE 23 DEC AND FRI 26 DECSAT 28 FEB WILD BIRD FEEDS Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Wildflower and Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT. 01453 891223, www.wwt. org.uk, 4pm, Normal admission charges • See thousands of wild birds and enchanting Bewick’s swans feed by floodlight at Slimbridge Wetland Centre’s Swan CHRISTMAS 2014

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25/11/2014 14:21:10

BATH PHILHARMONIA presents THE SNOWMAN

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

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

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

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

PIC CREDIT: ©SNOWMAN ENTERPRISES LTD 1982, 2013

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

21/11/2014 16:07:39

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

ROUNDABOUT

Lake, and experience one of winter’s most breathtaking wildlife spectacles.

SAT 27 DEC FESTIVE TUDOR BIRDS OF PREY John Moore Museum, 41 Church Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5SN, 01684 297174, www.johnmooremuseum.org, 10am-1pm and 2pm5pm, £3 (adult)/£3 (child)/£8 (family) • Learn how important birds of prey were to the Tudors, as a costumed falconer (from Midlands based J.R.C.S Falconry) joins the museum to explain about these amazing creatures and answer your questions. Plus you’ll meet a Kestrel, a Buzzard, a Peregrine Falcon, a Barn Owl and an Eagle Owl. MON 29 DEC WINTER MASKS Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2BX. 01285 655611. www.coriniummuseum.org. 10.30am-11.30am. £1.50 per child • At this time of year Jack Frost knocks on your door and nibbles at your nose.

Join in this fun family drop-in and create your very own winter mask.

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

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

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

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

adventures which premiered on Morph’s YouTube channel in 2014.

Join the Watershed for this unique event which includes a screening of some classic Morph moments both old and new, followed by a model-making workshop where kids can learn how to make their very own Morph model with help from an expert model maker from the Aardman studios.

MON 16 FEB GARGOYLE MASKS Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencester, Gloucester,GL7 2BX, 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum.org, 10.30am-11.30am, £1.50 plus admission fee • Medieval stonework is full of funny faces and strange beasts.

Join Jane to create a mask inspired by medieval gothic imagery.

FEBRUARY

MON 16 FEB CIRCUS SKILLS Watson Hall, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 5PX, 01684 295074, www.rosestheatre.org, 10am-12pm (ages 7-10) 2pm-4pm (ages 11+), £15 per session • In this workshop performer Thomas Trilby gives you a dazzling demonstration of his abilities, before you have ago at juggling, plate spinning, diabolo, devil sticks, unicycling, hula hoop, stilts and more. At the end, you can show off your new skills to your friends and family.

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

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

SAT 14 FEB GRAMMAR SCHOOL INFORMATION MORNING Cheltenham (venue on registration). 01242 572392, info@ cotswoldeducation.co.uk, www. cotswoldeducation.co.uk, 9.45am11.45am, £35 • Private tuition company Cotswold Education hosts a talk about Gloucestershire’s Grammar School Entrance Test, offering a mock test for children in Years 4 and 5, plus an information session for parents about education resources.

MON 16 FEB- FRI 20 FEB MAKE A PANTO IN A WEEK Aldeman Knight School, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 8JJ, 01684 295074, www. rosestheatre.org, 10am-4pm, £60, Ages 11-18 • Taking the much-loved pantomime Cinderella as a starting point, this fun week sees participants exploring the characters and storyline, before a final performance in front of family and friends at the end of the week. As part of the ‘Of Course We Can’ scheme, this workshop is suitable for all young people.

WED 18 FEB MOSAIC INITIALS Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencester, Gloucester,GL7 2BX, 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum.org, 10am-12pm, £7 plus admission fee • Inspired by the Gloucestershire Lettering Arts exhibition and the art of illuminated initials, this workshop teaches the skills of mosaic mak-

ing by creating your initials or an animal on a coaster for your to take home. Ages 8+.

WED 18 FEB ILLUMINATED BIRD ON A STICK Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencester, Gloucester,GL7 2BX, 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum.org, 10.30am-11.30am, £1.50 plus admission fee • Illuminated script often incorporates beautiful birds, beasts and mythical creatures. Create an illuminated bird on a stick to take home.

THU 19 FEB ILLUMINATED INITIALS WITH SARA SALVIDGE Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencester, Gloucester,GL7 2BX, 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum.org, 10.30am-11.30am, £1.50 plus admission fee • Inspired by the medieval writing exhibition, create your own set of illuminated initials to take home.

THU 19 FEB DISCOVERY ZONE: WRITING THROUGH TIME Corinium Museum, Park Street, Cirencester, Gloucester,GL7 2BX, 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum.org, 11am-12.30am, included in admission fee • Heather Dawson and James Harris take a close up look at the fascinating written material and writing equipment from the museum’s collections, including sketchbooks from the founding collections, personal letters, and writing implements throughout time from Roman to the present day.

LISTINGS BY JAYNE RANDALL CHRISTMAS 2014

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25/11/2014 14:21:57

Simply

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

S

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

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

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

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

Among these projects are a range of volunteering programmes

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CHRISTMAS 2014

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aims to plant 36,000 new trees in Bristol by spring 2016.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

As Primary Times went to press, Bristol 2015 was still keeping its full programme under wraps, promising

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

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

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

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

Community Tree Planting Week (Nov) – In National Tree Week, Bristol’s Tree Pips scheme runs a community planting week which

Bristol 2015 W: www.bristol2015.co.uk

PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2014 14:15:01

ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi A Cotswold education Many parents feel that a grammar school education would be best for their child. If you are considering this, Cotswold Education would like to invite you to a Grammar School Information Morning. The event includes an introductory talk on the Gloucestershire Grammar School Entrance Test, a mock test for children in Years 4 and 5, and an information session for parents on education resources and supporting your child.

There is also the opportunity to chat informally to staff over tea and biscuits.

Parents are sent a report on their child’s performance after the event, identifying strengths and weaknesses to determine a realistic and informed plan of action. The next event costs £35 and takes place on Saturday 14 February in Cheltenham from 9.45am to 11.45am. Cotswold Education runs other mock tests throughout the year.

Ffi and to register: Cotswold Education T: 01242 572392 E: info@cotswoldeducation.co.uk W: www.cotswoldeducation.co.uk

Confidence and communication If you could give your child one gift this Christmas what would it be?

• Greater self-confidence?

• Better concentration and communication skills?

• Improved physical health?

• A happier social life?

Attending musical theatre classes with the Hampstead Factory can help develop all these attributes. Its aim is to spark creativity in young children and help them to develop an appreciation for the arts, encouraging them to foster a positive attitude and explore their own self-expression.

The group has talented and passionate teaching staff, access to one of Europe’s largest children’s and young performers’ agency, filming projects, performances and award opportunities.

It says it has an amazing New Year offer: attend a free trial and register (cost £35) in January to receive 50% off your first terms fees.

Ffi and to book: Hampstead Factory T: Zoe 07767 114823

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

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news, education & contacts

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

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

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

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

The beautifully-illustrated letters include the child’s name, age, gender, and other details which only Santa could know.

Christmas is an exciting time of year but for some children it can be difficult and lonely. By requesting a Letter from Santa for a suggested £5, the NSPCC can be there for vulnerable children, giving them someone to turn to when they need support.

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

Parents’ & teachers’

Baba Voom!

Promenade Productions presents its traditional family pantomime, Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves at The Bacon Theatre from Wednesday 21 to Sunday 25 January 2015. This classic tale, set in Baghdad, follows the adventures of young Ali Baba and his trusty camel and their attempts to stop the evil Mustapha Lot from stealing an allpowerful sword. Can he save the day?

‘Oh yes he can!’

Promenade Productions has been delighting Cheltenham theatre-goers for over 30 years and, with a modern twist, 2015’s pantomime is sure to be just as entertaining.

No pantomime is complete without a dame. Ali Baba’s mum, Barbara Baba will be played by the Promenade’s chairman, John Pannett.

With stunning sets, fabulous costumes, some great dance routines, plus audience participation, Ali Baba is sure to provide great, laughter-filled seasonal entertainment for young and not-so-young alike. Tickets are £10 to £16. (Wednesday and Thursday prices only £10).

Ffi: T: Showcase (Promenade’s own box office) 01241 224144 E: info@showcaseonline.co.uk

Oven love With Christmas just around the corner, one huge chore for most of us is cleaning the oven. However, help is at hand. Established in 1992, Ovenclean is the UK’s original oven cleaning company.

Ovenclean uses an environmentally-friendly, noncaustic cleaning system which ensures a safe, hygienic and fume-free environment, while its fully trained specialists remove all grease, fat and burnt on carbon deposits from a range of your kitchen appliances. These include: • ovens • hobs • extractors • microwaves • AGAs • ranges • barbeques • grills Ovenclean has fully trained, professional oven cleaning specialists, offers courteous, reliable and friendly service and has a safe and eco-friendly oven cleaning system.

The company aims to return your oven to pristine condition. According to the Daily Telegraph, “A call to Ovenclean . . . Result - a sparkling super clean oven.”

Ffi: Ovenclean T: 0800 840 7127 W: www.ovenclean.com

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Adver tising Feature

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ffi: Clearwell Caves W: www.clearwellcaves.com

Adver tising Feature

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

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

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

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

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Adver tising Feature

The personal approach • Edward Jenner School in Gloucester believes all children are unique and deserve the very best of personalised learning opportunities.

The school specialises in a personalised, quality-first teaching approach for everyone, including Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) children.

Its team members are all familiar with the vision for personalised teaching and learning, defined by Christine Gilbert in the landmark report, ‘Teaching and Leaning in 2020’, which depicts personalised learning in practice. The report described the approach as, “Taking a highly structured and responsive approach to each child’s and young person’s learning, in order that all are able to progress, achieve and participate.” From this was coined the phrase ‘quality-first teaching’.

In The Children’s Plan it was stated, “Teaching and learning is most effective where teachers are enthusiastic and knowledgeable and have the confidence to stand back and encourage pupils to become independent learners.”

Many schools have included ‘quality-first’ teaching in their Local Offer for SEND provision. Edward Jenner School offers the highest level of personalisation and quality teaching to all its pupils. That means every child has their own personally planned programme, to maximise progress and make high expectations achievable.

The Government’s SEND reforms enable parents of children on an EHC plan (the new name for a statement of educational needs) to choose the provision which best suits their child. It releases the budget allocated to the child, for the parent to use most effectively. Edward Jenner School invites parents to visit them and see what they have to offer your child.

Ffi: Edward Jenner School T: 01452 380808 W: www.edwardjennerschool.org.uk

Adver tising Feature

Christmas at Puzzlewood • Puzzlewood is a unique and magical forest in the Forest of Dean. You can explore a mile of meandering pathways, taking you through a spectacular wonderland of deep ravines, of moss covered rocks, over wooden bridges and through fantastic tree and rock formations, all set in 14 acres of ancient woodland.

Inside this magical woodland, there is a special little house.

And inside that little house, there is a very special person, Santa!

He’ll be here, with his elves, during the weekends in December and the last few days just before Christmas, so you can tell him how good you’ve been this year and what you would like for Christmas. His elves will then write it down in his magical book to make sure he doesn’t forget!

Santa’s naughty reindeers will be wandering through the woods and you can spot them as you go round. Open on the Sat 6-Sun 7 Dec, Sat 13-Sun 14 Dec and Sat 20-Wed 24 Dec from 10am to 3.30pm last entry. Adults and children aged 3+ are £6.50 and children aged 2 and under are free. All children receive a small gift from Santa. Also onsite are farm animals, a willow maze, indoor maze, playground, small cafe and gift shop.

Ffi: Puzzlewood T: 01594 833187 W: www.puzzlewood.net

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26/11/2014 11:42:07

Modern Manners

By Anne Marie Scanlon

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

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

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

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

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

Obviously all of these things are important but sometimes basic manners are forgotten about. A kid with no manners grows into a rude adult and no matter how many qualifications they get, the person who knows how to smile, make eye contact and shake hands will always have the upper hand in both the job market and life. As the old cliché says manners cost nothing. It is so very very easy to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’. It doesn’t take up much 20

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2014 14:15:24

Classifieds Arts & Crafts 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.

Swimming

• 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

Fancy Dress

Could you? Or someone you know Foster with us?

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

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

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

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

Cleaning Pantomimes Promenade Productions proudly present their Traditional Family Pantomime

Ali Baba

and the Forty Thieves

by Julie Petrucci and Chris Shinn

21st-25th January 2015

DIRTY OVEN? CALL US ON 0800 840 7127 PUT THE SPARKLE BACK INTO YOUR OVEN!

www.ovenclean.com OVENS, AGAS, RANGES, HOBS & EXTRACTORS

Tuition

at The Bacon Theatre Hatherley Road, Cheltenham

Tickets £10-£16 available from Showcase

01242 224144

R E F ay F rsd O Thu 0 L nd 1 IA a s £ C ay at E sd Se P dne All S We

also book online from 1st December at www.promenadeproductions.co.uk Sponsored by

AN AMATEUR PRODUCTION

Party Ideas

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

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 Book now for FREE bouncy castle hire Limited period only

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

PRIMARY TIMES

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Hello Kids!

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

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

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

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

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

Have fun!

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

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

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

WINNER!

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

A nose for history Cassandra Regan reviews the new releases.

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

Jack resolves to find him, and sets off at dusk, encountering a girl of his own age, Beth, who also carries a burden that she isn’t yet ready to share.

It’s a tale full of adventure and mystery, which takes this unlikely duo to a local library where they uncover disturbing facts about Jack’s father’s former employer and a curious scientific research programme.

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

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

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

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

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

Here we discover the startling site of the Major’s nose going about town pretending to be a person, while the Major himself wrestles with the indignity of his facial loss. The illustrations are sumptuous and the prose is elegant, even if, with its references to snuff, it might be deemed politically incorrect in places.

But Camilleri has stuck closely to Gogol’s fantastical style and it’s quirky details like that which bring history alive for children.

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

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

Light in shade

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PRIMARY TIMES

26/11/2014 11:46:00

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

ter fro m Santa

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

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

What your child will receive...

Special personalised message from Santa

ÂŁ5

per SUGGletter DONAESTED TION

Delivered by Rudolph Mail

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

Magical illustrations A treasured keepsake for years to come

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

15 December!

p23.indd 1

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

21/11/2014 16:08:00

Keep your little elves entertained this Christmas.

With the most magical grottos this side of the North Pole.

Christmas has arrived at your local Wyevale Garden Centre and so has Father Christmas! This year he’s got a special treat for your little elves – an Elf Training Workshop Grotto for boys and girls! With festive crafts to make and take home and a genuine ‘Elf Graduate’ certificate, it’s the perfect treat. Plus there are three other grottos to explore – Story Time (for festive stories) Winter Wonderland (full of magical characters) and, of course, his Traditional Grotto. And Father Christmas will be waiting to say hello with a special present for everyone.

So make sure your little elves are booked in early for any of our grottos at wyevalegardencentres.co.uk/events Check our website to find out which grotto is at your local centre.

Find us at Blooms Gloucester | Lechlade | Nailsworth and nationwide.

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