Gloucestershire Christmas 2015

in Gloucestershire Issue 140 18 December 2015 -12 February 2016

Also Family fitness Gifts to go Should kids do chores?

A green space to ...

Download the new Primary Times app, free! Page 3

play!

Two West Country companies, Green Play Project and Outdoor Play and Learning, reveal why they think playing outside is as important as classroom learning. Page 4.

Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

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24/11/2015 10:43:28

WEEKENDS OPEN ON 28th & 29th November 5th & 6th & 12th & 13th December 2015 OPEN DAILY FROM 18th - 24th December 2.30pm - 6.00pm close * Ticket price includes visit to meet Santa with gift, Christmas Fairy, illuminations, Face Painting, Craft Marquee, Meet the Reindeer and Entry to the park. * Photographs are not included in the entry price.

Hot food, drinks and gifts are available for purchase Free parking Group bookings available on request Gifts are suitable for children over the age of one and are not gift wrapped. Tickets are nonrefundable or exchangeable. Illuminations are turned on at duck. Photographs are not permitted inside the grotto

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

Do you need practical and cost effective advice in relation to:• Getting your child assessed by the Local Authority to secure the appropriate special educational needs provision which they require?

•

Appeals to the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal?

•

Help with admissions and exclusions?

Tayntons can provide help to children and young people with a variety of special educational needs including dyslexia, Asperger’s, autism and children with visual and hearing impairments.

Tayntons began life over 150 years ago and is one of Gloucestershire’s most successful and long established law frms.

Please contact our friendly team who are happy to discuss the matter with you to see if we can be of assistance.

For further information please call us for FREE on 0800 158 4147 or email us at info@tayntons.co.uk.

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

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CHRISTMAS 2015

PRIMARY TIMES

24/11/2015 13:23:52

With Christmas looming, parents have a double challenge ahead. Joyful as I hope they’ll be for everyone, the festivities are never stress free. I hope we at Primary Times have done our bit with a great gift guide for those last minute essential pressies. These are gifts that you can’t order online at this stage, but are available locally so you don’t have to rely on an expensive delivery service (P16).

Following that, families have to readjust to the reality of the New Year, with its often chilly weather and the added burden of a Christmas tummy to lose. So our Sporting Chances feature (P6) offers exciting ways to get back into shape as a family and embrace the New Year enthusiastically. the editor

140 rshire Issue2015 ber in Glouceste18 18 Decem 2016 ary -12 Febru

Also Family tness Gifts to go Should kids do chores?

A green ... space to

Download the new Primary Times app, 3 free! Page

play!

een Play al Gree es, Gre panies reve Learning, rtant Country com Two West Outdoor Play and is as impo ing outside Project and think playing. Page 4. why they learn as classroom money!

Theatre • Arty

THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P11 PINBOARD P17 ADVERTISING FEATURES P18 CLASSIFIEDS P21 PUPILS’ PAGE P22 SPORTING CHANCES P6 Eric Blair discovers the many ways families can take exercise together.

GO GET ‘EM! P16 Ellen White with some last minute gifts.

PARENTS’ LITTLE HELPERS? P20 When should kids start helping at home?

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

dabout • Save Barty • Roun

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

Editor

Commercial director

Advertising

Distribution

Design Production Sub-editor Proof reader Main office

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

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

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

While we make every effort to ensure information published is accurate, readers are encouraged to check details of all events in advance and neither Bristol News & Media nor its contributors are liable for the consequences of any errors. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in the county for their assistance in distributing the magazine and their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible.

Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Bristol News & Media.

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

PRIMARY TIMES

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Find these amazing offers this issue!

Dick Whittington Farm Park – Free entry for one adult with advert Magicland – 10% off entry with voucher

Magicland

Cotswold Farm Park – One child free with paying adult CHRISTMAS 2015

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24/11/2015 10:42:45

A green space to ...

play!

Two West Country companies, Green Play Project and Outdoor Play and Learning, reveal why they think playing outside is as important as classroom learning.

W

Over the past 14 years two companies, Bristol’s Green Play Project and Somerset-based Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL), have been taking an informed approach to creating excellence in primary school play.

Green Play Project specialises in the design and build of bespoke natural play areas, using high quality, sustainable materials and environmentally conscious building practices.

They aim to bring the magic and freedom of natural play to their clients, whether they are situated in a rural haven or a nature-deficient inner city area.

Every design is site-specific with a focus on lots of planted spaces, hills, tunnels, water and sand play, natural and sustainable materials, and long-lasting high play value. Green Play’s director Simon Jackman says, “Our approach is about building a beautiful landscape in which play grows, rather than installing random pieces of unchallenging equipment in a sea of coloured plastic. The ultimate aim is to create an environment that allows creative and challenging play where children can spend time in the fresh air, exert energy, take risks, and have fun.”

OPAL, a not-for-profit company which grew out of a play development programme for schools run by one of the country’s top local government school improvement teams (South Gloucestershire), has much in common with Green Play Project and the two companies often work together.

The OPAL Primary Programme was A school playground before transformation . . . created by school

e all know how much fun play can be. But we don’t always appreciate the profound and lasting influence that quality play can have on a child’s health, wellbeing, long-term development and academic performance. A welldeveloped play area in a school is far more than a space for running around and letting off steam (although these are both important activities). It should be there to provide an extension of the classroom, where play and learning are combined to provide the best possible results. It provides children with the opportunity to engage in enjoyable activities in a stimulating and considered outdoor space that enhance their mathematical, language and literacy skills.

When schools set out to improve their outdoor facilities, many of the most commonly chosen options fail by design to address children’s constantly developing play needs. Low level climbing equipment, often chosen for optimum safety and bright colours, can lack physical challenge, while playground markings, which children stop using after two weeks, do virtually nothing to create sustainably engaging, high quality play opportunities.

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improvement adviser Michael Follett, a former teacher and playworker, during six years of research and development in over 100 schools. The programme helps schools understand how to improve every aspect of play including staffing, planning, risk management, communication, resourcing and environment. The programme has been cited as innovative best practice by three parliamentary reports and two universities.

Michael explains why schools should invest in a strategic approach to play. “If you take morning and lunchtime play, it adds up to an incredible 20% of a child’s time in school, the equivalent of a whole day a week,” he says. “We owe it to children to make the best possible use of this valued part of their childhood.”

An Ofsted report about the play facilities developed by Green Play Project and OPAL at a South Gloucestershire primary school highlights some of the benefits of investing outdoor play. “The school has invested heavily in improving play

facilities and resources, with a designated play coordinator,” it reads. “Pupils enjoy the variety of stimulating opportunities for creative play … this has added to pupils’ enjoyment of school.

High rates of attendance further confirm this enjoyment.”

Green Play Project and OPAL can ensure that such investments are spent in creating engaging, rich and long lasting play opportunities. The process is not child’s play but it is worth the effort, say the companies.

Along with enhancing curriculum based skills and activities, they say, children also gain the opportunity to develop their creativity and initiative, while building social and emotional skills. Having access to an inspiring outdoor play space gives children the best environment to develop these skills, encouraging positive longterm attitudes to discovery and learning.

Green Play Project T: 0117 924 4644 E: admin@greenplayproject.co.uk W: www.greenplayproject.co.uk OPAL Outdoor Play and Learning T: 07870 284517 E: outdoorplayandlearning@ gmail.com W: www.outdoorplayandlearning.org.uk

. . . and after

PRIMARY TIMES

24/11/2015 10:47:20

To celebrate the release of Star Wars Episode VII - The Force Awakens on 18th December 2015...

Star Wars convention at The Brewery 15:00 to 19:00 19th December There will be Star Wars characters roaming around, a competition for the best dressed and MUCH more...

Please see website for details

thebrewerycheltenham.co.uk ©LW

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

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

■ Family fun/individuals

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

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

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

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

PRIMARY TIMES

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20/11/2015 15:56:06

Getting fit doesn’t have to mean you have to be a lonely jogger pounding the pavement.

As Eric Blair discovers, exercise is something that families can do together.

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Sporting

chances

W

ith families leading increasingly busy lives, it can be difficult for parents and children to find time to exercise and keep fit. According to the NHS, though, adults should try to be active every day, do at least 150 minutes of “moderate aerobic activity” every week and do something more rigorous two or more times a week. Children, meanwhile, should be doing at least an hour of physical activity every day and more focused exercise three times a week. Fortunately, things like walking to school or the shops and playing in the playground count as moderate activity; it’s the more focused, rigorous exercise that can be tricky to fit into busy family schedules.

Keeping fit, though, needn’t be a chore and one answer is to exercise together as a family. Not only is it fun, it can also be a chance for some friendly rivalry – and for parents and kids alike to reveal their inner Olympian. There are, of course, lots of options – from going on cycle rides together to trips to – if you dare – militarystyle fitness training. In and around Gloucestershire, of course, there are plenty of places where you can take your exercise in the

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great outdoors, from organised activity centres like Go Ape! in the Forest of Dean to the lanes and footpaths of the Cotwolds or the Wye Valley. And since walking is good for you, even a gentle stroll around Westonbirt Arboretum or Slimbridge counts! Locally, too, there are plenty of leisure centres and organisations which offer activities, not just for adults and children, but for families to enjoy together.

Everyone Active, for example, has more than 100 leisure facilities around the UK. Its aim is “to encourage more people to participate in 30 minutes of moderately physical activity five times a week” and its centres offer a range of family-oriented sports and activities. In fact, the organisation says, “more and more of our members are choosing to get active as a family unit” and it’s designed a number of activities, such as Swim4Everyone and Swim4Fun sessions, and offers a number of sports, including badminton, tennis and table tennis, which are specifically aimed at families wanting to get fit and stay healthy together.

In Gloucestershire, for example,

Everyone Active has centres in Stroud, Cirencester, Chipping Camden and Bourton-on-theWater. At Cotswold Leisure in Cirencester you’ll find two swimming pools, a relaxation suite, gym, sports hall and squash courts hosting a range of sports and activities for adults and children alike. At Stratford Park Leisure Centre in Stroud, meanwhile, there’s badminton, tennis, table tennis and squash amongst its programme of family-friendly sports. You can find your nearest Everyone Active centre and details of the facilities and activities it offers by visiting the organisation’s website.

Swimming, of course, is an ever-popular form of exercise.

It’s effective too – and even a gentle swim can burn more than 200 calories in half an hour. They know all about swimming at GL1 Leisure Centre in Gloucester. Run by the Aspire Trust, the complex houses four swimming pools, each one catering for different types of swimmer, from absolute beginners through to competition-level sports swimmers. There are special sessions for babies, toddlers and pre-school children, as well as swimming lessons and swim fit-

ness sessions too. If you’d rather exercise out of the water, the centre’s facilities also cover a range of dry-land sports including badminton, squash and volleyball.

At Mojo Active near Almondsbury, meanwhile, you can take your exercise up a notch, and up into the trees. Their high ropes course will have you crossing rickety bridges, clambering over nets and zipping down zip wires in an adrenaline-pumping 90-minute family session. For those who really want to get serious, they also offer military-style training – but be warned: with that, they say, “there is the option to take things at your own pace and have a giggle, but only if you get down and give us 20!”

Everyone Active W: www.everyoneactive.com GL1 Leisure Centre W: www.aspiretrust.org.uk/gl1 Go Ape! W: www.goape.co.uk Mojo Active W: www.mojoactive.co.uk Slimbridge W: www.wwt.org.uk/slimbridge Westonbirt Arboretum W: www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt

PRIMARY TIMES

24/11/2015 10:48:32

Christmas at the

THE COMPLETE “GO WILD” NATIVITY ANIMALS CHRISTMAS TREAT

Dean Heritage Centre COME AND JOIN OUR FAVOURITE FRIENDS AS THEY RETURN FOR A FESTIVE CELEBRATION

See Santa & meet the donkeys Visit the Enchanted Christmas Cavern

1ST—23RD DECEMBER **

FESTIVE TREATS ** GIFT FROM SANTA

**

Christmas Quizzes and Trails

SEASONAL CRAFTS **

Christmas Play Barn Fun

ONE ADULT

Image courtesy of One Eye Shut Photography

01594 822170 | www.deanheritagecentre.com | info@deanheritagecentre.com

Grammar School Information and Mock Test Morning Saturday 30th January 2016 09.45-11.45 in Cheltenham

Little London, Longhope, Gloucestershire, GL17 0PH

Tel: 01452 831000

NATIVITY ANIMALS

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

Passionate about Learning

©LW

Tel 01242 572392

FREE

with this advert VALID UNTIL 4.1.16

www.dickwhittington.org

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 14 days. The total cost of the event is £40. Places are limited so please contact us for further information and to book a place

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

Dick Whittington Farm Park

ALSO OPEN

NEW YEARS DAY

Forest of Dean Tourist Attraction of the Year

INDOOR HEATED PLAYBARN National Farm Park Award Winners

There’s a festive place near you With plenty of activities for you to do Shop at Christmas markets full of hand made gifts Or meet Father Christmas to give him your list Sing festive Carols beneath the fairy lights Or enjoy Christmas lunch and other delights A winter walk on our trails is a must As there’s nothing like a Christmas at the National Trust Find traditional Christmas events at:

Chedworth Roman Villa, Dyrham Park, Hidcote, Newark Park nationaltrust.org.uk/southwest

PRIMARY TIMES

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©NTI/John Millar. Reg. Charity No. 205846

merry moments

CHRISTMAS 2015 7

24/11/2015 13:24:52

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

GLOUCESTERSHIRE BACON THEATRE Dean Close School, Shelbourne Road, Cheltenham GL51 6HE. 01242 258002, www. bacontheatre.co.uk Jack and the Beanstalk Wed 20-Sun 24 Jan, 7pm (WedSat)/2.30pm (Sat & Sun), £10£14 • Promenade Productions bring laughter and mayhem to The Bacon Theatre with their traditional family pantomime. Just when you thought the Christmas festivities were over, this awardwinning society will make sure your New Year starts with a bang. Expect all the fun-filled ingredients of a feel-good family show, with all ages enjoying the escapades of Jack and his friends.

Will Jack reach the top of the beanstalk? What adventures await him at the top?

BAYSHILL UNITARIAN CHURCH HALL Royal Well Lane, Cheltenham, GL50 3ET. 01242 255820 or 07940 430094 Aladdin and the Magic Lamp Mon 28-Thu 31 Dec, 11am & 2.30pm (11am, 31 Dec only), £3.50 (adult)/£2.50 (child)/£10 (family) • A marionette puppet production by the Festival of Puppetry, raising money for Children in Need.

Tickets available from Tourist Information at the Wilson Art Gallery (T: 01242 237431).

Festival of Puppetry Mon 15-Sat 20 Feb, Mon-Fri 11am & 2.30pm, Sat 3pm, Mon-Fri £3.50 (adult)/£2.50 (child), Sat £4(adult)/£3 (child), £10 (family Mon-Fri only) • Daily performances of ‘Rumpelstiltskin’, ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘Marionette Cabaret’ plus puppet-making workshops.

Proceeds go to The Children’s Society. Tickets available from the Tourist Information Centre at the Wilson Art Gallery (T: 01242 237431).

CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QA. 0844 576 2210, www. cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk The Snowman & Peter and the Wolf Tue 22 Dec, 1.30pm, £12.50-£30 • If panto’s not your scene, then the whole family can enjoy a different Christmas treat this year with a performance of Prokofiev’s chilling tale of ‘Peter and the Wolf’ followed by a screening of ‘The Snowman’ with a live orchestral accompaniment.

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Cinderella, Everyman Theatre, until Sun 10 Jan

295074, www.rosestheatre.org Cinderella Until Sat 2 Jan, various times (see website for details), £11.50-£24.25 • Director Ben Crocker (of 2014’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’) presents this year’s ‘Cinderella’, which promises to be every bit as magical and wondrous as previous pantomimes. The much-loved rags-to-riches tale is told with magic, a fantastic cast, music and dancing throughout and more than a few surprises along the way.

FURTHER AFIELD

EVERYMAN THEATRE Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HQ. 01242 572573, www. everymantheatre.org.uk The Crocodile’s Gift Until Thu 24 Dec, various times (see website for details), all tickets £8.50 • A specially designed panto for little ones who may be too young for the main house show. When Damura is sent to the river to do the washing, she loses her stepmother’s best sarong. She is dismayed, but finds help at hand – as long as she is brave enough to accept it. A Cinderella story from Indonesia full of twists and turns and exciting adventures. Recommended for ages 7 and under.

Cinderella Until Sun 10 Jan, various times (see website for details), £14-£25 • Following the success of last year’s ‘Sleeping Beauty’, Everyman Theatre presents the story of Cinderella, the handsome prince and her wicked stepsisters. Featuring the return of Tweedy the Clown and no doubt lots of laughs. Book early to avoid disappointment.

The Gloucestershire Schools Dance Festival Mon 8 Jan, 3pm/5.30pm, £11/£7(conc) • Schools across Gloucestershire have been working hard to choreograph and rehearse dances based on the theme ‘A Night at the Musicals’. An opportunity for family and friends to see the children perform on the Everyman’s main stage.

The Tortoise and the Hare Wed 10 Feb, 2pm/4pm, £14(adult)/£9 (child) • Once there was a speedy hare who bet the tortoise to a race.

The tortoise couldn’t possibly win

– or could he? Aesop’s well-known fable is brought to life especially for little ones and is full of ballet, music and theatre.

PARABOLA ARTS CENTRE Parabola Arts Centre Auditorium, Parabola Rd, Cheltenham GL50 3AA. 01242 707338, www.parabolaartscentre.co.uk Ellie Marsden Stage School Mon 21-Tue 22 Dec, email info@ mystageschool.co.uk for times and prices • Holiday workshop for any child aged 7-18 who wants to improve their performance skills or simply have a lot of fun. Rehearse dance, drama and singing over several days before a performance on the professional stage.

THE PLAYHOUSE THEATRE 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7HG. 01242 522852, www. cheltplayhouse.org.uk Peter Pan And The Revenge Of Captain Hook Until Thu 24 Dec, 2.30pm (from Sat 19) & 7pm, £9-£15 • On a starry night in London, Wendy is dreamily looking out of her window and fondly remembering her adventures in Neverland – now just a distant memory. Will she ever return or see her friends Peter Pan, the Lost Boys and the mischievous fairy Tinkerbell again? Meanwhile, in Neverland, a crocodile is in a cage on board the Jolly Rodger pirate ship. Its hook-handed captain is cross. Really, really cross. A magical adventure for all ages.

ROSES THEATRE The Roses, Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX. 01684

BRISTOL HIPPODROME St. Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ. 0844 871 3012, www.atgtickets. com/bristol Snow White Until Sun 3 Jan, various times (see website for details), £10£39.50 • Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest panto of them all?

Join film and TV star Warwick Davis as head of the seven dwarves in this year’s dazzling show. Will the Wicked Queen banish Snow White once and for all or will the handsome Prince thwart her plans? Expect spectacular sets and costumes, music, dance and lots of laughs.

BRISTOL OLD VIC King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED. 0117 987 7877, www.bristololdvic.org.uk Sleeping Beauty Until Sun 17 Jan, various times (see website for details), £7.50-£34 • A girl wanders through the forest when she stumbles across a sleeping Prince, cursed to sleep for 100 years. After what doesn’t exactly turn out to be true love’s first kiss, the pair are thrown together on a hilarious adventure of magic and mayhem. Director Sally Cookson presents a charming rolereversal twist on the classic fairytale for all the family to enjoy.

TOBACCO FACTORY THEATRE Raleigh Road, Bristol BS3 1TF. 0117 902 0060, www.tobaccofactory. com The Light Princess Until Sun 10 Jan, times vary (see website), £19 (adult)/£15 (conc)/£8 (child) • In a kingdom far away lives an extraordinary princess – she can’t keep her feet on the ground. Cursed with zero gravity, our heroine struggles to stay down to earth and take life more seriously, especially when a prince falls in love with her. Expect a beautiful, immersive set design, theatrical magic and original music from the team behind last year’s “smash hit” ‘101 Dalmations’. Ages 6+ PRIMARY TIMES

24/11/2015 11:07:18

Gloucestershires No1 Kids Day Out! -Softplay -Lasertag -Parties -Disco - Cafe

Sat 28 Nov - Sat 2 Jan Written & directed by Ben Crocker

New to Go Bananas: Story Telling Sessions Santas Grotto Toddler Mornings Cake Baking

10% OFF* (*one child entry with this flier)

Have a ball at The Roses’ panto this Christmas!

NEW CAR PARK 01453 769120 www.gobananas.org.uk EBLEY WHARF MILL, EBLEY, STROUD, GL5 5AZ

Mon 14 - Wed 16 March Tickets £12 Family Ticket (4 tickets) £44

Also Booking Now...

THE CROCODILE’S GIFT 4 - 24 December

A friendlier alternative to our pantomime for children under 7.

TORTOISE & THE HARE Presented by Northern Ballet 10 February 40 minute child friendly ballets based on Aesop’s much loved fables

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF EVENTS AND TO BOOK ONLINE VISIT OUR WEBSITE

everymantheatre.org.uk or call 01242 572573

PRIMARY TIMES

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CHRISTMAS 2015 9

25/11/2015 12:50:42

Clearwell Caves Christmas Fantasy

10% OFF ENTRY WITH THIS VOUCHER

28th -December 24th

November 01285 885570 WWW.MAGICLAND.CO.UK * WITH THIS VOUCHER ONLY. VALID UNTIL 29TH FEBRUARY 2016. PHOTOCOPIES NOT ACCEPTED AND THIS VOUCHER MAY ONLY BE USED ONCE. PRITIMES

OPEN 10.00am-5.00pm Clearwell, Nr Coleford Tel: 01594 832535

2015

see our website for more details

www.clearwellcaves.com

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

Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Duplicated vouchers will not be accepted.

 Strong Traditional Maths and English  Investigative and Exploratory Science  Confidence building Individual Programmes  Affordable Provision, Small Class Sizes

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

OPEN DAY SATURDAY 16th JANUARY 1-4pm Now Registered for Children 5-16 years Dyslexia Screening and Support www.edwardjennerschool.org.uk Tutoring for 7-16 Years in English, Maths, Science and 11+ Please ask us about our 2015 results 01452 380808 info.ejs@gmail.com

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CHRISTMAS 2015

Visit our magical Santa’s Grotto!

10am – 3pm every weekend from 5th until 23rd December. PLUS Christmas Tree decorating competitions throughout the holidays.

PRIMARY TIMES

24/11/2015 13:25:27

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 and March: deadline Wednesday 6 January.

If your event is to raise funds for a school, a charity or your community, and is open to the public, please let the editor know at: mike.gartside@localworld.co.uk PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL While we make every effort to ensure these listings are accurate and up to date, event information can sometimes change after we’ve gone to press. Please check with the venue or organiser before you set off to an event to make sure it’s going ahead as planned . . . and tell them you saw it in Primary Times!

DECEMBER UNTIL SUN 20 DEC SHEEP SHOWS AT COTSWORLD FARM PARK Cotsworld Farm Park, Guiting Power, nr Cheltenham GL54 5UG. 01451 850307, www.cotsworldfarmpark.co.uk, 10.30am-5pm (10.30am-4pm from 2 Nov), adult £9.25/child £8.40 • Volunteers are needed to star in the Sheep Show. Learn about sheep farming history and the farm’s rare-breed rams. Children’s activities are also running throughout the holidays so head on down for some farming fun.

UNTIL TUE 22 DEC BRISTOL GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKET Broadmead, Bristol, BS1 3DX. www. bristolgermanchristmasmarket. co.uk, 10am-8pm (beer garden 10am-10pm), free • Bristol’s annual German Christmas Market returns for a seventh year, with 38 festively decorated traditional chalets selling everything from wooden decorations to handmade glass, traditional candles, sugared nuts, gingerbread and German beer. Adding to the magic is the 13m high Christmas pyramid with rotating nativity scene, giant advent calendar and Bavarian music entertainer Der Alpen Klaus.

UNTIL WED 23 DEC WILD BIRD FEED Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Bowditch, Gloucester GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge, various times throughout the day, included in general admission prices • Don’t miss this winter spectacle: in the comfort of the heated observatory hear the warden’s commentary as he feeds PRIMARY TIMES

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Floodlit Swan Feed, Slimbridge, Until Wed 3 Jan.

the thousands of wild birds and Bewick swans that have flown all the way from Russia.

UNTIL WED 23 DEC SANTA’S GROTTO AT BRISTOL ZOO Bristol Zoo Gardens, Guthrie Rd, Bristol BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7300, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, 11am-3pm, entrance fees apply plus £4 members/£5 non-members • Dive into a winter wonderland and meet Santa as well as some of his reindeer friends. Don’t forget to look out for the Christmas-shaped animal lights throughout the zoo.

UNTIL THU 24 DEC SANTA’S ENCHANTED ICE CASTLE The Mall, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol BS34 5DG. 0117 903 0303, www. mallcribbs.com, prices & time TBA, please see website • See Santa in his magical ice castle right up until Christmas Eve when he has to leave to deliver presents to boys and girls all round the world.

Tickets can be pre-booked online.

UNTIL THU 24 DEC CHRISTMAS FANTASY Clearwell Caves, The Rocks, Coleford, GL16 8JR. 01594 832535, www.clearwellcaves.com, 10am-5pm, £10/under-2s free • Come and meet Father Christmas where you’ve never seen him before – underground! All children aged 2-14 will receive a free gift.

Then walk through displays telling a delightful new children’s story, as well as an underground Christmas Market, underground café and gift shop.

UNTIL THU 24 DEC SANTA’S GROTTO AT THE GALLERIES The Galleries Shopping Centre, Broadmead, Bristol, BS1 3XD. 0117 929 0569, www.galleriesbristol. co.uk, various times, please see website, £4.50 per child (includes gift) • Santa is looking forward

to meeting the children of Bristol as he takes up residence in his magical grotto on the ground floor. Booking recommended as it can get very busy in the run-up to Christmas.

UNTIL SAT 2 JAN CRAFTED FOR CHRISTMAS New Brewery Arts, Brewery Court, Cirencester GL7 1JH. 01285 657181, www.newbreweryarts.org. uk, 9am-5pm/11am-5pm (Sun 20 Dec only), free • A range of artists exhibit some of the best contemporary British craftsmanship.

With everything from jewellery to ceramics and textiles, it’s the perfect place to pick up some lastminute Christmas presents.

UNTIL SUN 3 JAN (WEEKENDS ONLY) FLOODLIT SWAN FEED Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Bowditch, Gloucester GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge, 6.15pm, adult £6/child £4 • Enjoy the magical spectacle of thousands of winter wild birds and Bewick swans on the floodlit lake.

The warden will be providing commentary as you watch from the comfort of a heated observatory.

UNTIL TUE 5 JAN AT-BRISTOL ICE RINK At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 5DB. 0117 915 1000, www.at-bristol.org.uk, see website for times, adult £8.50/ concs £7.50/child £6.50 • The Harbourside ice rink is back. Fun for all ages including special Disco Boots-themed evenings and Little Boots morning sessions especially for under-8s. Open every day except 25 and 26 Dec. UNTIL SUN 10 JAN WINTER WONDERLAND ICE SKATING The Mall, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol BS34 5DG. 0117 903 0303, www.mallcribbs.com, prices &

time TBA, please see website • Situated in the heart of the Winter Wonderland and claimed to be the largest outdoor ice rink in the South West – so get your skates on for the festive season. There will also be a smaller rink for little ones or those less steady on their feet.

UNTIL FEB YOU MAKE BRISTOL WHAT IT IS … GREEN M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol BS1 4RN. 0117 352 6600, www.bristolmuseums. org.uk/m-shed, 10am-5pm TueFri/10am-6pm Sat-Sun, free • M Shed is celebrating Bristol’s status as European Green Capital. Find out about the 10 most significant people and organisations on Bristol’s green agenda and what the city is doing to stay green.

UNTIL MON 29 FEB STICK MAN ACTIVITY TRAIL Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 01666 880220, www.forestry.gov. uk/westonbirt, 9am-5pm, trail free, additional activity pack £3 • Join Stick Man on his quest to find the family tree. Enjoy a walk around the arboretum or pick up an activity pack for a trail activity sheet, pencils, pipe cleaners, rubbing sheets and extra games and puzzles.

UNTIL SUN 13 MAR DEATH: THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1RL. 0117 922 3571, , www.bristolmuseums. org.uk/bristol-museum-and-artgallery, 10am-5pm (Mon-Fri), 10am-6pm (Sat-Sun), PWYT (pay what you think) • Major exhibition featuring many spectacular artefacts relating to the Mexican Day of the Dead, Victorian mourning rituals and mummification. See how other cultures deal with death via displays of coffins, mourning clothes, grave goods and symbols.

UNTIL SUN 10 APR WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol BS1 4RN. 0117 352

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Winter Wonderland Ice Skating, Cribbs Causeway, Bristol, Until Sun 10 Jan.

CHRISTMAS 2015

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ack J Beans talk

Promenade Productions proudly present a ‘GIANT’ of a pantomime

and the

Script by Toby Bradford and Tina Webster

20th-24th January 2016

Evenings: 7.00pm - Saturday & Sunday matinees: 2.30pm

at The Bacon Theatre Cheltenham

Sponsored by

AN AMATEUR PRODUCTION

Tickets £10-£14 available from

Showcase: 01242 224144

online at www.promenadeproductions.co.uk or The Bacon Theatre: 01242 258002

R FE ay OFhursd AL d T 0 CI ay an ts £1 E d a s SPedne All Se W

5tH & 6tH 12tH & 13tH

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

We could be just what you are looking for!

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

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

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

• Free accommodaton for midweek stays on our camping centre in September.

We also provide a residental or day actvity experience for schools and children’s organisatons ie scouts, cubs, Guides etc So for an alternatve to the usual holiday actvites, contact us on 01594 516162 or by email on info@vineyhilladventure.org and watch your child’s confdence grow! ©LW

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

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6600, www.bristolmuseums.org. uk/m-shed, 10am-5pm, £5/conc £4/under-16s free • The worldrenowned exhibition returns to M Shed with 100 images of wildlife from all over the globe. See animals from big cats to sealife and birds as you’ve never seen them before.

FRI 18- SUN 20 DEC ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 01666 880220, www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt, trail opens 5pm/last entry 7.30pm, adults £10/conc £8/child £5/under5s free • Celebrate winter with a magical mile-long illuminated trail through Westonbirt’s trees. Each year a new lighting design is created so visitors can experience different species, paths and vistas in the collection.

FRI 18-SUN 20 DEC ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS EVENINGS Bristol Zoo Gardens, Guthrie Rd, Bristol BS8 3HA. 0117 974 7300, www.bristolzoo.org.uk, 4.30-8pm/ last entry 6.30pm, adults £8/child £5 • Enjoy an evening of festive entertainment where Santa will be live on stage and joined by the resident compere to play fun festive games. There will also be carol singing, reindeer, storytelling and an enchanting light show plus festive food and drink in the Coral restaurant and Christmas-themed items in the shop.

FRI 18-THU 24 DEC WINTER WONDERLAND Prinknash Bird & Deer Park, Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8EX. 01452 812727, www.thebirdpark.com, 3-6pm, adult £10.50/ child £12 • Prinknash’s Winter Wonderland is back, complete with resident reindeer and magical valley of Christmas lights. Receive a gift from Santa in his grotto and enjoy festive refreshments. There will also be a nativity scene, Christmas fairy, face painting and a creative activities area where you can create your own Christmas cards.

SAT 19 DEC SAINT CECILIA SINGERS’ CHRISTMAS CONCERT Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College

Winter Wonderland, Prinknash Bird & Deer Park, Fri 18-Thu 24 Dec.

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Christmas, who will be bringing gifts for good boys and girls.

MON 21 DEC JACK FROST MASKS Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX. 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum. org.uk, 10-11am, £1.50 per child • Family drop-in session: decorate your own Jack Frost mask to celebrate the winter months.

Green, Gloucester GL1 2LX. 01452 396572, www.gloucestercathedral.org.uk, 7pm, adults £15/child £8 • Kicking off Christmas for music lovers, the Saint Cecilia choir will be singing a host of seasonal music and modern classics, interspersed with thoughtful readings and festive carols.

SAT 19 DEC WILD WESTONBIRT Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 01666 880220, www.forestry. gov.uk/westonbirt, 10am-4pm, free but must be booked in advance, call 0300 0674854 • Aged 14-18 and fancy learning more about bushcraft survival?

Wild Westonbirt is a youth club with a difference: learn a range of traditional forest and survival skills, including den building, fire lighting, wildlife watching and woodland crafts.

SAT 19-WED 23 DEC BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Bowditch, Gloucester GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge, breakfast 9.15-10am, activities throughout the day, please see website for times, adults £8.50/ child £19.95/under-2s free or £5 for grotto visit • Join the elves for breakfast, visit Santa in his magical grotto, ice gingerbread men, toast marshmallows and enjoy a whole range of arts and crafts with a whole day of festive

Carols at Gloucester Cathedral, Sat 26 Dec

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fun at Slimbridge. Afternoon tea with Santa is also available (entry prices and activities the same) from 3-4.30pm. Please see website for more details.

SAT 19-THU 24 DEC CHRISTMAS AT PUZZLEWOOD Puzzlewood, Perrygrove Rd, Coleford GL16 8QB. 01594 833187, www.puzzlewood.net, 10am3.30pm (last entry), adult £6.50/ child £5.30 • Heaps of fun for all ages in the magical forest of Puzzlewood. Search for reindeer, elves and Santa among the trees and whisper your Christmas wishes to Old Saint Nick.

SAT 19-THU 24 DEC CHRISTMAS AT DICK WHITTINGTON’S Dick Whittington’s Farm Park, Little London, Longhope GL17 0PH. 01452 831000, www.dickwhittington.org, 10am-5pm, included in standard admission prices/gift from Santa £2 per child/‘Frozen’ quiz £1.50 • Winter fun at Dick Whittington’s farm park where Santa will be taking residence in his grotto. Plus ‘Frozen’-themed quizzes in the Enchanted Winter Cavern, animal nativity and Christmas-themed face painting.

SAT 19-THU 24 DEC GWR SANTA SPECIALS Cheltenham Racecourse Station, Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Toddington GL54 5DT. 01242 621405, www.gwsr.com, various departure times, please see website, all tickets from Cheltenham £15/from Toddington £13 • GWR’s team of elves have been working hard to give boys and girls a special treat on their Santa Special steam trains right up until Christmas Eve. Trains terminate at Santa’s grotto railway carriage at Winchcombe station where all children will receive a gift and parents can relax with a hot drink and a mince pie.

SUN 20 DEC FAMILY SUNDAY LUNCH Best Western The Gables Hotel, Bristol Rd, Wotton-under-Edge GL12 8DL. 0844 3876259, www. thegablesbristol.co.uk, 12pm, £19.95/under 12s £7.95 • Enjoy a stress-free three-course feast, plus an appearance from Father

MON 21-TUE 22 DEC FESTIVE FILM SCREENINGS Bacon Theatre, Dean Close School, Shelburne Rd, Cheltenham GL51 6HE. 01242 258002, www.bacontheatre.co.uk, meet Santa from 4pm/film starts 5pm, £7 including treat from Santa • Enjoy a special showing of ‘Paddington’ as the auditorium is transformed into a twinkling grotto. Festive fancy dress highly encouraged. Monday is an autism-friendly screening, complete will chill-out areas, activities and low volume throughout the screening. Santa will be visiting both days so don’t forget your letters about what you want for Christmas.

TUE 22 DEC STAINED GLASS EFFECT CHRISTMAS GARLAND Nature in Art Gallery & Museum, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA. 01452 731422, www.natureinart.org.uk, from 10.30am (3-7 years)/1pm(3 years & above)/3pm(8-18 years), £6 (includes entry into the gallery for one adult & one child) • Create your own festive garland using wire and resin; the coloured shapes are sure to look lovely next to Christmas tree lights.

TUE 22 DEC CIRENCESTER CHORAL SOCIETY CHRISTMAS CHARITY CONCERT Cirencester Parish Church, Market Place, Cirencester GL7 2NX. 01285 654552, www.cirenparish. co.uk, 7.30pm, adult £7.50/child free • Charity Christmas concert promising a jolly performance of carols and festive music.

All proceeds go to supporting Cirencester Housing for Young People.

TUE 22 DEC SNOWMAN ON A STICK Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX. 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum. org.uk, 10-11am, £1.50 per child • Everyone loves a snowman at Christmas, so come along and make your own snowman on a stick for the tree or mantlepiece.

WED 23 DEC MINI CHRISTMAS STOCKING WORKSHOPS Nature in Art Gallery & Museum, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA. 01452 731422, www.natureinart.org.uk, from 10.30am (3-7 years)/1pm (3 years & above)/3pm (8-18 years), £6 (includes entry for one adult & one child) • Learn how to make your own mini stocking using felt CHRISTMAS 2015

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COMPETITION

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and hanging string: the perfect size for candy canes or chocolate coins.

WED 23 DEC CHRISTMAS ANGELS Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX. 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum. org.uk, 10-11am, £1.50 per child • Join the museum team and make your own angel to hang in the window or on the Christmas tree.

FRI 25 DEC SANDFORD PARKS LIDO CHRISTMAS SWIM Sandford Parks Lido, Keynsham Rd, Cheltenham GL53 7PU. 01242 524430, gates open 10.30am, free (charitable collection for Sandford Lido Ltd) • Merry Christmas! For the brave (or slightly mad) comes this annual Christmas tradition of taking a dip in the lido’s freezing waters. Adults only, but come and cheer on any family members who dare to have a go.

SAT 26 DEC CAROLS AT GLOUCESTER CATHEDRAL Gloucester Cathedral, 12 College Green, Gloucester GL1 2LX. www. gloucestercathedral.org.uk, from 3pm, free • Round up the family for a Boxing Day sing-song with the Gloucester Choral Society.

There will be a mix of traditional carols and seasonal choral pieces.

SAT 26 DEC BIBURY DUCK RACE River Coln, Bibury. Race starts 11am, free or £1 per duck in sponsorship • One of the more unusual but perhaps most fun traditions, which sees over 2,000 plastic yellow ducks unleashed on the river and prizes for the first 20 – and final duck – over the finish line. Even if you don’t have a duck to cheer on, you can expect mulled wine, mince pies and plenty of festive cheer.

SAT 26 DEC-SUN 28 FEB WILD BIRD FEED Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Bowditch, Gloucester GL2 7BT. 01453 891900, www.wwt.org. uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge, various times throughout the day, included in general admission prices • Don’t miss this winter spectacle. In the comfort of the heated observatory, listen to the warden’s commentary as he feeds the thousands of Bewick swans Secrets of Silk Wood, Westonbirt Arboretum, Sun 3 Jan & Sun 7 Feb.

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Sandford Parks Lido Christmas Swim, Fri 25 Dec

and other wild birds that have flown all the way from Russia.

MON 28 DEC SILK PAINTING Nature in Art Gallery & Museum, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA. 01452 731422, www.natureinart.org.uk, from 10.30am (3-7 years)/1pm (3 years & above)/3pm (8-18 years), £6 (includes entry for one adult & one child) • Learn the basic art of silk printing in this fun workshop: follow designs or images or branch out to create your own unique piece of art.

WED 30 DEC DO YOU WANT TO BUILD A SNOWMAN? Nature in Art Gallery & Museum, Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA. 01452 731422, www.natureinart.org.uk, from 10.30am (3-7 years)/1pm (3 years & above)/3pm (8-18 years), £6 (includes entry for one adult & one child) • For a snowman that will remain as resilient as ‘Frozen’’s Olaf, little ones can create one from air-drying clay and natural materials that’ll stick around in all weather.

JANUARY SUN 3 JAN SECRETS OF SILK WOOD Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 01666 880220, www.forestry. gov.uk/westonbirt, 11am, included in general admission prices • A walk exploring Silk Wood’s combination of native woodland and ornamental plantings. Each walk lasts around two hours and is led by experienced volunteer guides.

FRI 15-SUN 31 JAN WILD PHOTOGRAPHY Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX. 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum. org.uk, 10am-5pm, free • Showcase of photography by children and young people from in and around Gloucestershire.

In association with WILD (Water with Integrated Delivery), a project to improve water quality and biodiversity in waterways.

SAT 16 JAN EDWARD JENNER SCHOOL OPEN DAY Edward Jenner School, 4 Pitt St, Gloucester GL1 2BH. 01452 380808, www.edwardjennerschool.org.uk, 1-4pm, free • Open day for the independent Gloucester school for ages 5-16.

THU 21-SUN 24 JAN SLAPSTICK FESTIVAL Various venues including Colston Hall, Bristol. 0117 9870442, www.slapstick.org. uk, Silent Comedy Gala tickets £10-£25, please see website for details • The annual celebration of silent comedy returns with over 20 events spread over four

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fun-packed days. It kicks off with a triple bill of classic films including Charlie Chaplin’s ‘The Kid’, and you can expect silent masterpieces, a special guest host and many more surprises over the course of the festival.

SAT 30 JAN GLOUCESTER RUGBY VS LEICESTER TIGERS Kingsholm Stadium, Kingsholm Rd, Gloucester GL1 3AX. 0871 8718781, www.gloucesterrugby. co.uk, kick-off 3pm, ticket prices vary, please see website • Gloucester Rugby face former champions Leicester Tigers in what promises to be an exciting match for rugby fans of all ages.

FEBRUARY SUN 7 FEB SECRETS OF SILK WOOD Westonbirt Arboretum, Westonbirt, Tetbury GL8 8QS. 01666 880220, www.forestry. gov.uk/westonbirt, 11am, included in general admission prices • A walk exploring Silk Wood’s combination of native woodland and ornamental plantings. Each walk lasts around two hours and is led by experienced volunteer guides.

THU 11 FEB WEST SIDE STORY Corinium Museum, Park St, Cirencester GL7 2BX. 01285 655611, www.coriniummuseum. org.uk, 7pm, adult £5.50/ conc £4.50 • Screening of the Oscar-winning interpretation of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ set on the streets of 1950s New York.

Expect a rousing score, great choreography and familiar songs like ‘America’ and ‘Maria’.

ONGOING EVENTS ONGOING PAINT AND MAKE YOUR OWN POTTERY HOLIDAYS ACTIVITIES Taurus Crafts, The Old Park, Lydney, nr Chepstow, Forest of Dean GL15 6BU. 01594 844 841, www.tauruscrafts.co.uk, contact for prices & times • Paint your design onto pottery and have it glazed and fired for a professional finish.

ONGOING THE CHOCOLATE BAR: CHOCOLATE MAKING AND PAINTING WORKSHOPS Taurus Crafts, The Old Park, Lydney, nr Chepstow, Forest of Dean GL15 6BU. 07855 229334, www.tauruscrafts.co.uk, contact for prices & times • For all those chocoholics.

Learn how to make your own box of chocolate and pick up a few professional skills along the way, such us how to temper chocolate and make ganache.

ONGOING JEWLLERY MAKING FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN Taurus Crafts, The Old Park, Lydney, nr Chepstow, Forest of Dean GL15 6BU. 07918 676539, www.tauruscrafts.co.uk, contact for prices & times • Learn jewellery-making skills and try your hand at sterling silver ring hammering.

THEATRE AND ROUNDABOUT LISTINGS BY ELLEN WHITE

CHRISTMAS 2015

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4 3

Go get ‘em!

Forgotten a present for a loved one? Desperate for those final stocking fillers? When it’s too late to order online, Ellen White has the perfect guide to locally available presents.

1

CARD MAGIC TRICKS A great stocking filler for wannabe magicians of any age, this easy to use kit includes a booklet with instructions for over 30 magic tricks plus two special decks of cards.

Entertaining to learn and to watch, prepare to wow your family and friends with your very own magic show. £6.95 The Original Gift Company The Square, Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire, GL54 1BQ. W: www.theoriginalgift.co.uk.

2

PRINKNASH WINTER WONDERLAND Prinknash Bird and Deer Park has everything you need to get into the Christmas spirit. Visit the resident reindeer and magical valley of Christmas lights, receive an early gift from Santa and his grotto or create your own personal Christmas cards in the activity area for those last minute visitors. Adult £10.50, child £12.

Prinknash Bird & Deer Park Prinknash, Cranham, Gloucester GL4 8EX. W: www.thebirdpark.com

3

RUDI REINDEER This super-soft version of Santa’s favourite reindeer will become a much loved addition to children’s toy collections over the Christmas period and beyond. £16 Jojo Maman Bebe 2C Regent St, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1HQ. W: www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk.

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around the board. £24.99 Inside Out Gift Limited 230 Bath Rd, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL53 7ND. W: www.insideoutgiftshop.co.uk.

5

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CHELTENHAM MONOPOLY One of the UK’s bestloved family games, the Cheltenham version of the Monopoly board sees familiar spots such as Imperial Gardens, The Everyman Theatre, Sandford Parks Lido and The Brewery dotted around the map, with Cheltenham Racecourse replacing that sought after Mayfair spot. Pit generations against each other as you buy, sell and trade your way

2

REMOTE CONTROL CAN RACER Taking its name from its nifty and compact packaging, this zippy racing car is surprisingly nimble for an RC vehicle of its size and easy to store for those short on space. If you’re looking to test its manoeuvrability for yourself, just set out the four cones included to make a course for this racer to weave in and out of. £10 Hawkins Bazaar Regent Arcade, Regent St, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1JZ. W: www.hawkin.com.

6

COLOUR CHANGING CLAY ANIMALS An affordable and unusual stocking filler, this neat allin-one kit comes with everything

you need to make a statue, including clay and one of four different animal moulds. Simply knead the clay into the mould, using the sculpting tools if necessary, then remove the mould and let your clay animal set in the sunlight. As the clay hardens it changes colour, making this a magical craft project for children of all ages. Order more than one to receive multiple animal designs. £3 Hawkins Bazaar Regent Arcade, Regent St, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1JZ. W: www.hawkin.com

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MINECRAFT ZOMBIE Recreate scenes from the popular video game Minecraft with this spooky zombie action figure. Comes with accessories and fully moveable arms and legs for hours of imaginative play. £7.99 Toys R Us St Ann Way, Gloucester, GL1 5SF. W: www.toysrus.co.uk PRIMARY TIMES

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi Eleven Plus for adults

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to do a grammar school entrance test? Are your children going to take one in the next year or two? If so, Cotswold Education are running a fun and informative pub quiz-style evening only for parents where you’ll get the chance to have a go at some challenging Eleven Plus-style questions in small teams.

Drinks and snacks will be provided and there will be prizes for the best (and worst!) teams. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an expert or beginner, Cotswold Education will tell you all you need to know on the evening – so just turn up and see the kind of questions your children are up against! Call Cotswold Education or visit their website to find out more and book a place.

Ffi: Cotswold Education T: 01242 572411 W: www.cotswoldeducation.co.uk

Crafts at Christmas

You can celebrate Christmas in style by doing your seasonal shopping at Taurus Crafts’ Christmas Markets on 5-6 and 12-13 Dec. More than 30 stalls will be offering an inspirational selection of arts, crafts, gifts, decorations, food, drink and locally grown highquality Christmas trees. Local choirs and bands will also feature throughout. The markets are open from 10am-5.30pm, with free entry and free parking. The family-friendly venue is easy to find: it’s just outside Lydney on the A48.

Artisan and craft businesses on site include: chocolatiers, picture framer, jewellery, artworks, knitting, leather worker, ethical fashion, stone mason, antiques, farm shop, beauty retreat and florist. There’s also Taurus Crafts Café serving meals prepared on site, using many local and organic ingredients, handmade cakes and a range of coffees and teas.

Ffi: Taurus Crafts T: 01594 844 841 W: www.tauruscrafts.co.uk

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Action stations!

Get your adrenaline pumping this winter by taking on Mojo Active’s new high ropes course, located just off junction 17 of the M5. Each stage of the course is designed for maximum fun, adventure and challenge, whether it’s swinging through the trees using rickety bridges, traverse nets, organ pipes, islands in the sky or zooming down the 100m zip wire. It’s open every weekend and during school holidays and you can book online or call (see details below).

And for more fun, Mojo Active’s Christmas school holiday club is now taking bookings. The club will run on weekdays until 23 December and consistently sells out so please book early to avoid disappointment. There’s a huge range of activities on offer, including archery, climbing wall, orienteering, tunnel maze, den building, team games and Christmas treasure hunts in addition to special away days.

Ffi: Mojo Active T: 01454 660075 W: www.mojoactive.co.uk

Festive farm fun There’s a full programme of Christmas family activities lined up at the Dick Whittington Farm Park in west Gloucestershire. Rain, snow or shine, the centre is great for families with toddlers to 10-year-olds.

The very popular Parent and Toddler Christmas Party takes place on Friday 11 December, when there’ll be a festive buffet and a visit from Santa. Santa has also promised to visit the centre every day from 19-24 December.

The farm animals are now in their winter accommodation, snugly bedded down, so the kids have a chance to say hello to the Nativity animals, including donkeys. The farm cats enjoy saying hello to visiting children too.

The indoor heated Play Barn covers some 10,000 square feet and includes a soft play zone with ball pools, slides, trampolines and dens. The go-kart course is always popular and there will be Christmas quizzes and competitions to enjoy as well.

Ffi: Dick Whittington Farm Park T: 01452 831000 W: www.dickwhittington.org

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

Full of beans Promenade Productions are bringing laughter and mayhem to The Bacon Theatre in January with their traditional family panto, ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’. The award-winning society promises to make certain you start the New Year with a laugh as Jack and his mates embark on their epic adventures. No one is too young or too old to enjoy their escapades in a panto that features all the classic ingredients of a show for all the family: a large cast of singers and dancers, lavish costumes, colourful scenery and, of course, lots of audience participation.

‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ is at The Bacon Theatre from Wed 20 to Sun 24 Jan, with evening performances at 7pm and matinees on Sat and Sun at 2.30pm. Tickets range from £10 to £14 (with concessions available) and can be booked by calling Showcase (01242 224144) or the Bacon Theatre (01242 238002), or by visiting Promenade’s website.

Ffi: Promenade Productions W: www.promenadeproductions. co.uk

Oh what a show!

Dust off your ball gown and polish your glass slippers ... The Everyman’s annual pantomime runs until Sun 10 Jan. Starring Tweedy the Clown, ‘Cinderella’ is full of thrills, spills and laughter and looks set to break the Cheltenham theatre’s box office records.

In the New Year, there are more family treats. Northern Ballet perform ‘Tortoise and the Hare’ on 10 Feb while half term sees a retelling of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ (17-20 Feb - pictured) featuring puppets and physical theatre. On 19 Feb, CBeebies favourites Chris and Pui bring their new stage show to the Everyman, featuring toys and characters from TV’s ‘Show Me Show Me’, and from 14-16 March you can see award-winning children’s yarn ‘We’re Going On A Bear Hunt’, complete with music, comedy and a few surprises. Further ahead, in the Easter holidays, Jacqueline Wilson’s adventure ‘Hetty Feather’ runs from 6-10 Apr, while there’s fun-filled ‘Bed Time’ (6-8 Apr) for younger audiences in the Studio.

Ffi: Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham T: 01242 572573 W: www.everymantheatre.org.uk

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Adver tising Feature

Snap happy

Santa Cruises

December 12, 13 and 19 through till 24

12.00pm, 1.30pm, 3.00pm £9.50 per person Booking essential call: 01452 318200/1 New galleries 2016. The museum will close on Sunday 1 November and reopen Summer 2016. Look out for a pop-up museum in and around Gloucester during this time.

canalrivertrust.org.uk/Gloucester GloucesterWaterwaysMuseum

• London Camera Exchange can trace its origins back to the 1950s when the founders acquired premises in Guildford’s Tunsgate where they operated a photography studio. The owners of Tunsgate Studios soon noticed that their customers were very interested in the equipment they used in the studio and even went so far as to sell some of it. When customers started to offer other cameras in part-exchange for newer or more expensive models the business as it exists today was born.

London Camera Exchange Gloucester first opened the doors of its Southgate Street store in 1973. It holds a wide variety of stock, including cameras from all the major manufacturers, such as Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus, Fujifilm and Pentax, as well as more recent additions like the popular action cameras by GoPro. In addition to catering for most of the needs of a keen photographer, the shop also devotes space to other types of optical equipment such as binoculars and telescopes. It offers part-exchange too, enabling those with a growing interest to trade up to the latest offerings; the range of used equipment caters for those who prefer seeking out a secondhand bargain.

There’s also a quality processing service on offer, with in-store digital printing available so you can take away your prints within minutes.

Whatever interest you might have in cameras, binoculars, telescopes or their associated accessories, a visit to London Camera Exchange Gloucester with its helpful, knowledgeable staff and competitive prices could be a most rewarding experience.

Ffi: London Camera Exchange T: 01452 304513 W: www.lcegroup.co.uk

@gloswaterways

Adver tising Feature

Explore 56 acres of brilliant autumn colour in the Arboretum, browse the selection of pocket money-priced goodies in our gift shop and enjoy a home-baked lunch or a sweet treat in our café. Batsford is a perfect day out for all the family - dog friendly too!

Batsford Arboretum & Garden Centre, Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9AD T: 01386 701441 E: arboretum@batsfordfoundation.co.uk Visit www.batsarb.co.uk for details on our forthcoming events including Santa's Grotto at Christmas!

You shall go to the ball!

• The Roses’ annual pantomime has a rock solid reputation for being one of the best in the area and this year’s tale of the downon-her-luck Cinderella promises to exceed all expectations. With a talented cast, gorgeous costumes and scenery and plenty of music and dancing from start to finish, there’s no better way to enjoy the festive season than a trip to The Roses.

This year’s enchanting panto will transport you to a magical world of music, mayhem and unadulterated fun. ‘Cinderella’ is universally loved as one of the best fairy tales of them all. The humble Cinderella’s rags-to-riches story proves that good really can triumph over evil – and that anything is possible! So leave the real world behind and escape to the ball of the century ... Will Cinderella get to come too or will her ugly sisters succeed in dashing her dreams? There’s only one way to find out!

Cinderella runs at The Roses from Saturday 28 November to A previous year’s production Saturday 2 January. of Aladdin at the Roses Ffi: The Roses, Tewkesbury W: www.rosestheatre.org

©LW

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PRIMARY TIMES

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They’ve got the M factor!

Sat 28 Nov 2015 – Sun 10 Apr 2016

Detail © David Doubilet (United States) Turtle Flight

Adver tising Feature

Successful pupils enjoy The Maths Factor “graduation” ceremony.

• The second annual Maths Factor Graduation Day, hosted by television presenter and education author Carol Vorderman, celebrated the achievement of 30 primary school children who have made exceptional progress in the online course founded by the former Countdown star.

Held this October at the London offices of Pearson’s, the leading learning company that owns The Maths Factor, the event saw Carol herself present each child with a certificate and a mortar board.

Two groups of 12 children, known as ‘graduates’ and ‘progress champions’, were commended on the day. They and their families enjoyed the graduation ceremony, as well as a slice of the fantastic Maths Factor cake. Each child also left with a celebratory goody bag and balloon.

Maths Factor Graduates are selected from those who have completed the site’s main course during the last 12 months. Progress champions, selected from Years 1 to 5, are chosen on how much progress they have made compared to others in their year group also using The Maths Factor. Subscription to the site is £9.99 per month, with no minimum contract, and can be cancelled at any time.

Tickets: £5/£4 conc.

Under 16s go free bristolmuseums.org.uk Wildlife Photographer of the Year is developed and produced by the Natural History Museum, London

Ffi: The Maths Factor W: www.themathsfactor.com

UP TO

Adver tising Feature

Teaming up for fitness and play • Two popular local businesses, Go Bananas and Fifth Dimension, have teamed up to acquire new indoor and outdoor facilities at Ebley Mill in the Stroud district to develop its health and fitness and children’s play facilities in the area.

The clubs have been seeking new indoor and outdoor facilities to meet the needs of its growing membership and to increase health, fitness and children’s play facilities for some time. They have now secured a further 2,000 square foot of premises, doubled the car parking and gained 25 acres of pastureland adjacent to Ebley Mill, alongside the by-pass.

“We have been working with our landlord to increase the size and quality of the car park, extend the premises and develop external land for outdoor pursuits,” says trustee director Nick Easdown. “This will enable us to grow our services while improving the health and wellbeing of children and families in the area.”

The clubs will improve car parking straight away, extend Go Bananas for the children’s holiday programme and develop outdoor activities for the spring.

Local business owner and regular customer Kerri Vernon says, “This is brilliant! I can drop my kids off at the crèche on the holidays whilst I train, without the stress of a busy car park!”

The two clubs would also like to hear from individuals or organisations locally who might like to work with them.

Ffi: Go Bananas W: www.gobananas.org.uk Ffi: Fifth Dimension W: www.fifthdimension.org.uk T: 01453 769120

PRIMARY TIMES

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25% OFF

Book now!

2016 HOLIDAYS if you book before the end of January Please see

www.woolacombe-sands.co.uk for T&C’s and to book

Win a 2016 Holiday

Visit www.woolacombe-sands.co.uk/ pt-competition and request a brochure before 6th March 2016, entering competition code PT for your chance to win.

T&C’s available at www.woolacombe-sands.co.uk

Beach Road, Woolacombe, North Devon EX34 7AF E: bookings@woolacombe-sands.co.uk

01271 870569

www.woolacombe-sands.co.uk

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Parents’ little

When, if at all, should you start to get your children involved in the housework? Ann Marie Scanlon discusses the issues.

S

hould children help around the house? For some parents the answer is a resounding “of course!” Others agree in theory but just don’t have the time or energy to devote to ‘encouraging’ their offspring to tackle domestic tasks. Then there are those parents who think their children will be grown up soon enough and should be left to enjoy a responsibility-free childhood.

But is keeping a child free of all responsibility actually good for them? Not really, if a study by the University of Minnesota is to be believed. It suggests that, if a child has never had to fend for themselves practically, they will grow into a helpless adult.

Knowing how to use the washing machine, boil an egg and stock a fridge are things everyone should know before they leave home, the research indicates. It says that getting children as young as three involved in household tasks benefits them mentally and emotionally as adults. And once your child realises that their tasks contribute to the smooth running of your family life, they will feel valued and needed.

It’s never too early to start assigning your child chores around the house, according to the study. As soon as they start walking you should be able to ask them to tidy their toys at the end of the day, which may come as

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helpers?

a bit of a shock for those of us, including me, who didn’t know this. If your child is already at school there are certain jobs they could be doing already - tidying toys away, putting dirty clothes in the laundry basket, making the bed, preparing cereal for themselves and even unloading the dishwasher.

Whatever your child’s capabilities, if you are giving them chores for the first time, start small. Pick one or two tasks that you expect them to perform daily and/or weekly. Tell them what you want them to do and then show them how to do it. You need to be very specific. Explain how to shake the duvet out and arrange the pillows when making their bed or ask them to carry out the simple task of taking their plate to the sink, something of which all school age children are capable.

Unless your child is a total angel, you can expect some resistance and it can be tempting when you’re stuck in nagging mode to just give up and do the chore yourself as it’s quicker in the short term. But don’t give up. Be consistent with your child: this is their job now and they have to do it. Some parents reward children with pocket money for chores but most parenting experts agree that this is a bad idea. It’s a fact of life that things have to be done

around the home and remind them nobody pays you for doing the laundry. A good way of encouraging children to embrace their new-found responsibilities is to link the chore with something they like doing. For example you can tell your daughter that she’s free to play Minecraft after the dog has been fed, or your son that he can watch that YouTube video once the laundry is put away.

Many parenting experts and websites recommend making a ‘chore chart’. One approach is to list everything that needs to be done to keep the household running. These tasks can be divided into daily, weekly or monthly chores and assigned to each child based on age and ability. For busy parents drawing up a chore chart can seem like an awful lot of work in itself. To save time there are various chore charts you can download but if your children are unused to pitching in then it’s better not to overwhelm them with a variety of ‘to dos’.

When allocating tasks, never forget that they are still only children, so don’t expect or insist on perfection. If you do, you could end up yelling or doing it yourself, which leaves everyone feeling undermined, frustrated and angry. When setting regular tasks for your child, remember it’s about progress not perfection.

Age appropriate chores Children develop at different rates, so only a parent can really know when their kids are ready to take responsibility. But here’s a rough guide to what jobs children are capable of.

BY AGE 5 Dress with minimal parental help; tidy toys; put dirty clothing in the laundry basket; make bed; prepare a bowl of cereal.

AGE 6 TO 7 Sort laundry; set and clean the table; keep bedroom tidy (be specific about what “tidy” means); brush their own teeth.

AGE 8-9 Put groceries away, hoover, put away their own laundry; make toast; complete homework.

AGE 10+ Fold laundry, clean bathroom and kitchen; change bed linen; wash car; iron and cook under supervision.

PRIMARY TIMES

25/11/2015 11:43:57

Classifieds Arts & Crafts Paint -aPot

Swimming

BIG WAVES SWIM SCHOOL

Enrolling now for 3rd Jan 2016 Term

• Paint your own ceramics • • Keep Sakes • Gifts • • Decopatch • Partyroom •

5 Cossack Square Nailsworth Stroud GL6 0DB

Tel 01453 835043 For all your dancewear needs • Ballet • Tap • Modern • www.paint-a-pot.co.uk • Jazz • Drama • ©LW www.colourdancewear.co.uk

Business Opportunity

Dean Close School Pool, Cheltenham Enrolling now for Big Waves and Aquasplash January Courses Sunday morning, Monday and Thursday evening classes ASA Badge Scheme ASA qualified friendly Teachers, Small groups.

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

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

Jennifer Cartwright-Taylor Tel: 07518 785636 Website: www.phoenix-trading.co.uk/web/jct39447 Email: jct39447@gmail.com ©LW

Fancy Dress

Tuition

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

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

www.showcaseonline.co.uk

Party Ideas LEARN HOW PREHISTORY TOOLS WERE MADE WITH MASTER FLINT KNAPPER KARLLEE 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE 07964318436 primitive-technology.co.uk

Very experienced and qualifed tutors

Book now for FREE bouncy castle hire Limited period only

Unforgettable parties for ages 6+ at your local venue

nerf gun parties 07412 797900

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

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

KIDS HALLOWEEN CRAFT ACTIVITIES

www.thelanguagesolution.co.uk Contact Sylvie on 01242 513072

AT THE PARK CENTRE fRiDAY 30th OCTOBER 1pm – 2.30pm Up to 11 years old: £2.50 per child: Booking required

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

Gloucester (01452) 387228

glos classifieds.indd 3

©LW

©LW

(children must be accompanied by an adult)

PRIMARY TIMES

©LW

• After-school clubs with Fun French / Fun Spanish for Infant (Reception to Y2) & Junior (up to Y5) • Pre-school sessions at nurseries • Parent & toddler sessions • Common Entrance 13+ up to A level

www.boystoysparties.co.uk

The Park Centre Kingswood High Street Kingswood BS15 4AR T: 01454 862190

©LW

How will you be teacHing preHistory tHis term?

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Hello Kids!

Thank you so much for the fantastic pictures you send me. With Christmas and New Year coming up we’ve teamed up with our friends at Bristol Zoo, who are very kindly giving a family ticket to the painters of the three best pictures on the theme of animals in winter. So get your crayons out, let your imaginations run wild and send me your pictures to: Arty Barty, Primary Times, B-N&M, Temple Way, Bristol, BS2 0BY, or email high resolution jpegs to my editor at: mike.gartside@localworld. co.uk

Arty Barty You all drew brilliant Santa’s Farmyard pictures for me and it was very hard to choose, so don’t be downhearted if your entry didn’t get printed. The winner receives a family ticket to Cattle Country Adventure Park, Gloucestershire.

Don’t forget to put your name, age, full home postal address (or we can’t send you your prize!) and school on the back. Deadline: Wednesday 6 January.

Imogen Granger, 7, Preshute Primary School, e.

Manton, Wiltshir t Imogen has dream up a wonderful combination of domestic farm animals, like the pig in the left corner and the magical flying reindeer. I love the carefully wrapped gifts in all the animals’ pens.

Harikesh Rajanikanth, 5, Fieldcourt Church of England Infant Academy, Gloucestersh Harikesh’s bold blue sky ire. is striking and makes Santa’s red suit sta nd out more.

Have fun!

Arty

Holly Wishart, 8, Elm Park Primary School, Bristol I’m really impressed by Holly’s mixed media picture.

There’s everything from beads to jewels and felt, giving a lovely 3D effect.

Scott Granger, 9, Preshute Primary School, Manton, Wiltshire.

Scott’s version of Santa’s farm has stables for all his reindeer instead of horses. The warm glow of the street lamp and the silvery moon work really well.

WINNER!

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

She’s bad

Following his Awesome Book of Awesomeness, Adam Frost, Waterstone’s Children’s Book Prize nominee, has filled this entertaining volume with more amazing and epic facts, clearly illustrated with fun, simple graphics. From the world record for the longest wee (an incredible eight minutes and 28 seconds!) to the most overdue library book (288 years) this treasure trove has many surprises in store. Some may well turn your stomach and hold a strange appeal to youngsters. For example, did you know the average person swallows 1kg of insects each year - along with 365 litres of snot, enough to fill two oil drums?

Knowledge is power and information is liberating . . . even literally in the case of this little fact: it’s an act of treason to place a postage stamp upside down if it bears the image of the queen.

This book not only tests your knowledge but provides a great source for quizzes. I’ll certainly be taking my copy on long car journeys with the kids. Now, I wonder what the longest recorded car journey is … (Sarah Trevelyan)

‘Nixie The Bad Bad Fairy’ is a fun mischievous book aimed at youngsters who are able to read and to be read to. My three and four yearolds, a girl and a boy, loved the naughty Nixie. We read all about her outrageous actions, fairy balls, flying lemon-frosted cupcakes and hiccupping chocolate fountains. Catastrophe strikes when her unruly wand doesn’t do as it’s commanded and the author’s imagination runs wild, creating a storyline that children will delight in - rules are broken and Nixie sees the consequences of her actions.

The book starts with Nixie paragliding with the help of a petal and crash landing onto another fairy for a soft landing, covering her in mud! Fabulous fairy names like Blossom Ball, Fidget the Butterfly Fairy and Fizz the Wish Fairy pepper this charming story, creating a world of magic and adventure.

The black and white illustrations are well drawn and full of character, adding a special touch of imagery to an already descriptive book.

(Sarah Trevelyan)

The Epic Book of Epicness by Adam Frost, £6.99, Bloomsbury, www.bloomsbury.com

Nixie The Bad Bad Fairy by Cas Lester (illustrated by Ali Pye), £5.99, Oxford University Press, www.oup.com

Sarah Trevelyan reviews the new releases.

Epic yuckiness

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PRIMARY TIMES

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LARGEST OUTDOOR

ICERINKIN THE

SOUTH WEST Opens on Thursday 12 November

• • • • • •

Santa’s Enchanted Ice Castle Over 1000m2 Ice Rink Nursery Ice Rink Christmas Train in The Mall Café and Viewing Area Guaranteed Snow!

Details from mallcribbs.com

The Joy of Christmas Shopping

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