Wiltshire Back to School 2016

in Wiltshire Issue 105 1 September-20 October 2016

A child’s

best friend

Download the Primary Times app, free!

Page 3

Also New beginnings Author Henning Löhlein

Children can benefit hugely from looking after a pet but choosing the right one needs careful thought. Page 17.

Theatre • Arty Barty • Roundabout • Save money!

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Back to

! l o o h c S

£10 Afterschool

Early Years

Club

Join our pre-school club for 0-4 year olds – for free!

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• Free visit for your child’s birthday • 10% off café purchases • 20% off children’s parties

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Enjoy our Afterschool Party, Monday - Friday term time for £10 per child! Even better – the Birthday child goes free!

Afterschool Visit Jump after 3.30pm Monday - Friday school term time and children pay £4.50!

Entrance + Hot Meal & Drink only £7.00!

For more information, please give us a call on

0117 931 2733 or visit our website at www.123jump.co.uk Terms and Conditions: Applies to new bookings only and cannot be added retrospectively. Minimum Number of 8 paying children. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Applies to Afterschool Parties only and does not include Weekend/Holiday Activity, Laser, Toddler, Teenage or Adult party events. ©LW

WHAT WILL YOU MAKE OF IT?

at-bristol.org.uk A registered charity (no. 1049954)

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As the new school year comes round again, a new intake of pupils starts its educational journey. But, far from the daunting experience of yesteryear, starting at school is now a welcoming process, designed to make children feel comfortable and happy, as we discover (P.4).

It’s also exciting to see how much family entertainment is happening, both indoors and out, even with fresh autumn temperatures beginning to nip (See Roundabout, P.11). Finally, for those children who’ve always wanted a pet (isn’t that all of them?) we discuss the issues you need to consider when choosing the right household companion for your family (P.17). ltshire iilt Wilt iin W

the editor

October 2016 ember-20

1 Sept Issue 105

’s

A child

best d frien Download y the Primar Times app, free!

Page 3

Also nings New begin ing Author Henn Löhlein

ing from look needs t hugely can bene sing the right one Children but choo after a pet ght. Page 17. careful thou

Theatre

THEATRE P8 ROUNDABOUT P11 PINBOARD P19 ADVERTISING FEATURES P20 PUPILS’ PAGE P22 CLASSIFIEDS P23 A NEW BEGINNING P4 Today’s children have a gentle introduction to their school journey, reports Ellen White.

ASTRAL WOOFS! P6 Meet Bristol illustrator Henning Löhlein.

A CHILD’S BEST FRIEND P17 Choose your family pet with care.

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

Primary Times in Wiltshire

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

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Commercial director

Advertising

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Mike Gartside mike.gartside@localworld.co.uk Tracie Simms tracie.simms@localworld.co.uk 0117 934 3165 Caroline Stretton caroline.stretton@localworld.co.uk 0117 934 3737 Karen Giarratana Karen.giarratana@localworld.co.uk 01179 343 429 Juliet Hobbs juliet.hobbs@localworld.co.uk 01242 278053 Cath Evans, Mike Gartside Emma Gorton, Ruth Wood Ellen White 0117 934 3000

Find these amazing offers this issue!

Perform – Try a free Drama class Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm - £2 off admission Perform

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 Trinity Mirror Ltd 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 Trinity Mirror Ltd. PRIMARY TIMES

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Ellen White discovers that new arrivals in Reception and Year 1 will be made to feel welcome and comfortable as they embark on this new stage in their life.

A new I

t seems like only yesterday that your child was learning to crawl. Now, suddenly, the time has come for them to venture out on their own and begin the journey of formal education.

Starting school is one of the first major changes in a young child’s life, and, while exciting, it can be daunting too.

In his famous ‘Seven stages of man’ soliloquy, Shakespeare paints a gloomy picture of pupil enthusiasm as “the whining school-boy . . . creeping like snail unwillingly to school”. And, while those words might have been true even into the modern era,

4

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beginning

the learning environment has changed enormously in recent decades as the educational establishment has understood that happy pupils make for good students.

A 2013 research report by the Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY), found that 97% of childcare professionals define children who are ‘school ready’ as those with strong social skills, able to cope emotionally with parental separation, relatively independent in their own personal care and have a curiosity about the world and desire to learn. The same report found that these attributes were considered more important than cognitive and academic skills such as reading and writing.

Most schools settle new children into Reception gradually, offering short days or mornings to start. “We have a process called ‘Linger and Learn’ which involves the parents too,” says South Gloucestershire early years teacher Sandra Witter. “Initially, children only attend school in the morning, and we have tables laid out with puzzles, games and activities so parents can spend 10 minutes or so helping their child to settle in, showing them practical things like where their coat peg is to encourage independence.

We also have a ‘buddy system’ for the first eight weeks where each reception child is paired up with a pupil from Year 6. We arrange visits to the school for the younger children in July so, come September, they will have already met who they’re being paired up with.”

Extra support can also be available if your child is young for their year: children with summer birthdays may find it hard to keep up with the start of term

in September. Many local authorities now offer Reception places after a child’s fourth birthday, with the option to request a later start in the school year once a place has been accepted. Your local government website has the information you need to apply for a place and how to defer if you wish.

The start of school can be a big step for parents, too, so remember it’s completely natural to feel nervous. As Ben Craib, father of Theo, 4, says, “He can’t wait to go to school and craves friendship with other children. The anxiety is probably more from us parents than him.”

And if it seems like they’re not settling straight away, don’t worry because support is available. “We have an open door policy where parents can drop in at any time and talk to the teacher about their child’s progress,” says Sandra.

“During the first six weeks we offer parent information evenings covering everything from how

reading and writing will be taught, to what to bring for P.E.” So, parents, if you’re worried, remember that starting school is often tougher on you than on your kids and that primary schools in the region will be doing their utmost to ensure they have a smooth, happy transition to their new learning life. “Creeping like snail”? “What light through yonder window breaks?” might be more appropriate!

PACEY W: www.pacey.org.uk Family Lives W: www.familylives.org.uk Wiltshire Council W: www.wiltshire.gov.uk BOOKS I am too absolutely small for school by Lauren Child, £6.99, Orchard Books.

Starting School by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, £6.99, Puffin.

Harry and the Dinosaurs go to School by Ian Whybrow and Adrian Reynolds, £5.99, Puffin.

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23/08/2016 15:40:19

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18/08/2016 16:55:49

Henning Löhlein

Astral

Woof

As Bristol illustrator Henning Löhlein publishes his first solo book, Ellen White discovers an artist and author inspiring children to follow their dreams.

P

lanets made of cheese and space rocket ice lollies dance before your eyes, while a curious dog in a space helmet dreams of other worlds. This is no space age version of Crufts but the latest book by prolific illustrator Henning Löhlein, ‘Ludwig the Space Dog’, his first as a writer as well as an artist.

German-born Henning studied in France before an Erasmus exchange brought him to Bristol, where he finished his studies in illustration at the University of the West of England. Fifteen years of illustrative work for publications including The Guardian, Financial Times and Country Life followed, but he was increasingly drawn to illustrating children’s books and this has now become his full time occupation.

“After years of editorial, it was nice to work on something which leaves a deeper, lasting impression,” he explains. “After 6

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having my own children, I wanted to leave behind something more than the next day’s chip paper.”

Subsequently, he has collaborated on 35 books with leading children’s fiction writers including Andy Mansfield, James Riordan and Adam Frost while former children’s laureate Julia Donaldson described his ‘My Name is Mr Fox’, with author Shen Roddie, as one of her top 10 favourite picture books of recent times.

This time Henning has struck out on his own, writing the story and naming his canine hero Ludwig, after his own son’s middle name, and adding a three dimensional element to the tale, complete with accompanying 3D specs. “‘Space Dog’ was inspired by 3D cinema,” Henning says. “The marriage between the 2D and 3D imagery reflects the book’s themes: imagination, knowledge and the urge to explore other dimensions. Ludwig and his friends all come from pages of books, but he’s the only one to think outside the box.” Each page contains three dimensional elements which increase in frequency, culminating in a fully 3D double page spread when Ludwig reaches space.

“I hope Ludwig teaches children that it’s ok to be different,” says Henning. “You just need to believe in your abilities and follow your dreams. That’s why I chose the space theme: as well as lending itself very nicely to 3D, there’s that out-of-this-world

quality and thinking beyond your comfort zone.”

The book itself is a visual feast, with a mix of painting, line drawings and photographs; a blend of media and style which add to the overall 3D effect. One of its nice touches is the way Ludwig and his friends are drawn reflects their personalities; we’re introduced to our hero as he springs from an atlas, demonstrating his love of adventure.

“I wanted the drawings to reflect our imaginations, where anything is possible, while the photographs show the real world,” Henning explains.

“Ludwig loves to read, which makes him different from his friends but, by learning, he is able to explore the world beyond the books they live in. That’s what I hope children will gain from my work: a desire to learn and think beyond what you see in front of you.”

Ludwig the Space Dog is published Thu 8 Sep. The Bristol launch is at Centrespace Gallery on Fri 30 Sep, 6-9pm and Sat 1 Oct from 12-4pm.

Ffi: Centrespace Gallery 6 Leonard Lane, Bristol, BS1 1EA W: www.lohlein.com

PRIMARY TIMES

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Langley Fitzurse C of E Primary School

Middle Common, Kington Langley, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 5NN

Tel: 01249 750 295 Email: admin@langleyfitzurse.wilts.sch.uk www.langleyfitzurse.wilts.sch.uk

Let us Amaze Excite and Inspire you at our

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Tues 27 Sept 2016 (9.30am-3.00pm)

WELCOME TO THE SCHOOL FOR ADVENTUROUS MINDS EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES AT KES SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING FRIDAY 23 SEPTEMBER 2016

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www.dauntseys.org West Lavington, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 4HE T. 01380 814500

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FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SHOWS ★ SALISBURY, SWINDON, TROWBRIDGE & BEYOND

WILTSHIRE THE ARC THEATRE College Road, Trowbridge BA14 0ES. 01225 756376, www.arctheatre.org.uk Dotty the Dragon Sun 25 Sep, 11am and 2pm, £8/£6/£25 (family) • Dotty is a baby fire dragon who lives in a dusty old castle.

She loves to watch the children playing in the village below, but wishes she could join them. One day she has a brilliant idea and flies to the village to say hello. Will Dotty make new friends, or will the fearful village folk chase her back home to her castle? Brought to life by acclaimed Blunderbus Theatre, this big-hearted adventure is told with magical songs, music and puppetry.

MARLBOROUGH COMMON Marlborough, Wiltshire, SN8 1DL, www.giffordscircus.com.

Gifford’s Circus Thu 1-Mon 5 Sep, see website for times, £10-£29 • Get down to the whip-crackin’ high-tumblin’ bottle-jugglin’ horse-wranglin’ Giffords Circus show.

SALISBURY ARTS CENTRE Bedwin Street, Salisbury, SP1 3UT. 01722 321744. www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk Watch This Space Sat 17 Sep, 12-4pm, free ticket (must be booked in advance) • Open showcase including theatre inside a giant inflatable pig, sketching with the Lostwood fairies, music, theatre and dance performances.

The Magic Paintbrush Tue 25 Oct, 11am/2pm (relaxed performance), £7.50 (adult)/£6.50 (child) • Once upon a time in a grey, colourless world, someone is scribbling. Follow this brave young heroine as she leaps, splatters, swirls, boogies and paints her world into a brighter place.

SALISBURY PLAYHOUSE Malthouse Lane, Salisbury SP2 7RA. 01722 320333, www.salisburyplayhouse.com Clare Balding’s Family Morning Sat 24 Sep, 11am, £9 • Join the author and broadcaster for a morning of inspirational stories and family entertainment to celebrate the publication of her first children’s book, ‘The Racehorse who wouldn’t Gallop’. Suitable for ages 7+.

Shh…Bang! Mon 24 Oct, 11am and 2pm, £9 • Dance-theatre performance exploring sound and silence. Two characters set out on a journey through a world filled with boings, whooshes, tick-tocks 8

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and cacophony. Their journey is punctuated by silence and as they are wrapped up in stillness, they learn to listen.

Zombie-rella/Blood Red Hood Tue 25 Oct, 11am and 2pm, £9 • Performance poet Joseph Coelho unravels familiar fairytales to create fresh contemporary classics. Join a mysterious storyteller with a magical top-hat and coat and discover the true stories behind the happily-ever-afters as Cinderella falls in love with a zombie prince and Little Red Riding Hood isn’t as innocent as she seems. Suitable for ages 6+.

Grannylocks and The Monstrous Duckling Wed 26 Oct, 11am and 2pm, £9 • More twisted tales from performance poet Joseph Coelho. Discover the ‘truly monstrous’ ugly duckling and the mean old granny behind the tale of Goldilocks.

The Owl and the Pussycat’s Treasury of Nonsense Sat 29 Oct, 11am and 2pm, £9 • Soap Soup Theatre presents a fun twist on Edward Lear’s nonsense poetry including clowning, puppetry, magic and music. The Owl is trying to write his greatest masterpiece yet, but the Pussycat has different ideas. Creating magical worlds among the things in their den, and turning everyday objects into new friends for their nonsense stories, can they really work together to tell the most important tale of all?

STOURHEAD Stourton, Witlshire, BA12 6QF, 01747 841152, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/stourhead.

Whispering Woodfolk: Red Threads Sun 16 Oct, 2.30-4.30pm, £12 (adult)/£6 (child) • An immersive experience combining aerial acrobatics, live music and storytelling amongst the trees as the audience follows Betany on her journey from girl to woman.

SWINDON ARTS CENTRE Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4BJ. 01793 614837, www.swindontheatres.co.uk Family Fairy Tales Sat 22 Oct, 11.30am, free • Bring a teddy and settle down to enjoy three classic tales: Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Cinderella and The Three Little Pigs.

TROWBRIDGE ARTS Trowbridge Town Hall, Market Street, Trowbridge BA14 8EQ. 01225 774306, www.trowbridgearts.com Revolting Rhymes Live Sun 16 Oct, 2pm and 3pm, £9 (adult&child pair)/£4 (additional adult or child) • Roald Dahl’s wickedly entertaining spin on

Grannylocks and The Monstrous Duckling, Salisbury Playhouse, Wed 26 Oct.

classic tales including Little Red Hiding Hood, the Three Little Pigs and the Crocodile from ‘Dirty Beasts’. Join musicians, actors and puppets for this stage adaptation, plus a workshop beforehand to make your own mask to wear during the show.

Dracula: A Terrifying Comedy Fri 4 Nov, 7.30pm, £10 (adult)/£8 (conc) • The Last Baguettes adapt Bram Stoker’s gothic tale with plenty of comedy, 21 characters, four actors and two sharp fangs. Suitable for adults and courageous children.

The Boy Who Bit Picasso Sat 5 Nov, 3pm, all tickets £8 • Meet Tony and his friend, Pablo Picasso, down on the farm and discover the true story of how a young boy became friends with one of the greatest artists who ever lived. This is a ‘messy’ theatre show with lots of interactive fun, so wear old clothes!

THE WYVERN THEATRE Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. 01793 524481, www.swindontheatres.co.uk Gangsta Granny Tue 27 Sep-Sat 1 Oct, see website for times, £14£20 • It’s Friday night and Ben knows that means only one thing – staying with Granny! There will be cabbage soup, cabbage pie and cabbage cake and Ben knows it’s going to be boring. But what Ben doesn’t know is that Granny has a secret and Friday nights are about to get more exciting than he could ever imagine. From the acclaimed producers of ‘Horrible Histories’ comes the premiere of David Walliams’ best-selling children’s book.

Stick Man Sun 2 Oct, 1.30 and 3.30pm, £15.50 (adult)/£14.50 (child) • Scamp Theatre adapt Julia ‘The Gruffalo’ Donaldson’s charming tale of the Stick Man and his family. Featuring puppetry, songs, live music and dancing, perfect for ages 3+.

FURTHER AFIELD THE EGG Theatre Royal, Sawclose, Bath BA1 1ET. 01225 448844, www. theatreroyal.org.uk We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Wed 21-Sun 25 Sep, 10am (all days), 1pm (Wed-Fri), 12 noon & 3pm (Sat & Sun), £8.50 (adults)/£7.50 (children) • Michael Rosen’s classic brought to life by Little Angel Theatre.

Sponge Sat 1-Sun 2 Oct, 11.30am and 3pm, £8.50(adults)/£7.50(child) • Celebration of all things spongy, from a piece of cake to the texture itself with plenty of props to squash and squeeze. Suitable for 6 months to 3 years.

The Tale of Peter Rabbit Mon 3 Oct, 10am and 11.15am, all tickets £3 • Join Jackie and Pooja from Dinkies storytime as they share Beatrix Potter’s popular tale. Part of Bath Children’s Literature Festival.

Ella Bella Ballerina and A Midsummer Night’s Dream Tue 4 Oct, 10am and 11.15am, £3 • Jackie and Pooja bring this spin on Shakespeare’s tale to life with Dinkies storytime. Part of Bath Children’s Literature Festival.

The Boy Who Climbed Into The Moon Fri 7-Sun 9 Oct, 1pm(Fri)/11.30am and 3pm(Sat and Sun), £8.50 (adults)/£7.50 (child) • Adapted from the book by David Almond, follow Paul on his quest to climb into the moon. After all, it’s just a big hole in the sky… isn’t it?

Mavis Sparkle Fri 14-Sun 16 Oct, 10am and 1pm (Fri)/11.30am and 3pm (Sat and Sun), £8.50 (adults)/£7.50 (child) • With a magician for a dad and stargazer for a mum, there’s more to Mavis than meets the eye. Follow her as she journeys to see nature’s biggest light show for herself.

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w

Pewsey Vale School

INDIVIDUALITY - CREATIVITY - EXCELLENCE

Open Evening Thursday 22nd September - 6:30pm 01672 565000 / www.pewseyvale.org ©LW

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email: swindoninfo@freedog.com

©LW

tel: 01793 251 555

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

stalls, tastings, talks and cookery demonstrations plus lots more.

With special guest Masterchef: The Professionals finalist, Dean Westcar.

Deadlines: List your school’s events in Primary Times for free. We work a half-term in advance so we’re now collecting information for late October, November and December: deadline Mon 12 Sep. If your event is to raise funds for a school, a charity or your community, and is open to the public, we are keen to list it here. Please send all your events information and news/feature ideas to the editor at: mike.gartside@localworld.co.uk

SAT 3 SEP DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL Bristol Docks, Baltic Wharf, Bristol, BS1 6XG, 07539 926809, www. julianhouse.org.uk, 10.30am-5pm, free • Chinese-style Dragon boats take it in turns to race over a 250m course in aid of St.Julian’s House.

Enjoy the spectacle alongside Asian inspired street food, face painting, raffles and martial arts displays.

PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL While we make every effort to ensure these listings are accurate and up to date, event information can sometimes change after we’ve gone to press. Please check with the venue or organiser before you set off to an event to make sure it’s going ahead as planned . . . and tell them you saw it in Primary Times!

SEPTEMBER UNTIL SUN 4 SEP AFRICAN SUMMER Longleat Safari Park, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 7NW. 01985 844400, www.longleat.co.uk, 10am-5pm, standard admission prices apply • Longleat welcomes the rhythm of Africa as the park is filled with live performances and a brand new end-of-day finale.

UNTIL FRI 30 SEP FRANKENSTEIN IN BATH Starts at Rebecca’s Fountain by the side of Bath Abbey, Bath, BA1 1LT, 0117 902 0235, www. showofstrength.org.uk, 7.30pm, all tickets £8 (purchase on the day) • Show of Strength Theatre Company brings a series of nightly theatrical walks to the streets of Bath to celebrate 200 years of Mary Shelley’s iconic Frankenstein. The walk is led by professional actors, who tell stories of the writer’s turbulent time in the city, retracing her footsteps and exploring the extraordinary and unmarked locations where she wrote the story, including her mystery address that no longer exists.

UNTIL SUN 30 OCT ON THE WILD SIDE Longleat Safari Park, Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 7NW. 01985 844400, www.longleat. co.uk, 10am-6pm, included in allday ticket prices • An exhibition by the TV wildlife presenter, photographer and cameraman Simon King to mark the 50th anniversary of Longleat Safari Park.

King has immersed himself in the world of the Longleat animals, secreting himself in their enclosures, to capture “breathtaking” images.

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Devizes Wharf Carnival, Fri 2 Sep.

UNTIL SUN 20 NOV THE LUMINOUS ROBOT CIRCUS At-Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 915 1000, www. at-bristol.org.uk, regular shows during weekends & school holidays, included in standard admission prices • Roll up and take part in the robot circus! Meet a cast of almost inconceivable luminous robot performers who each tell a story of how we might live alongside robots in the future. Part of ‘Robot Encounters’ throughout the science centre this summer.

FROM THU 1 SEP AUTUMN GARDEN TOUR Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dyrham-park, 12 noon-1pm, included in standard admission prices • Enjoy the autumn colours on display in the West garden on a guided tour.

THU 1 SEP LATE NIGHT MARKET Market Place, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 1JH, 01722 342860, 5pm9pm, free • Extended opening hours to browse the stalls, grab some tasty street food and enjoy musical entertainment.

THU 1-SAT 3 SEP DANTERS FUNFAIR Station Yard Car Park, Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN16 9JT, www.malmesburycarnival.co.uk, From 6pm Thu and Fri, from 2pm Sat, free • The car park closes to all vehicles, making way for traditional fair rides, refreshments and more to warm up the excitement before the carnival procession on Sat 3 Sep. FRI 2 SEP DEVIZES WHARF CARNIVAL The Wharf, Couch Lane, Devizes SN10 1EB. 01380 721279, www.

katrust.org.uk, 6.30pm-10pm, free • Devizes’ annual carnival on the canal includes food and drink, music and dancing, plus lots of information, entertainment and shopping.

SAT 3 SEP YOUNG WAHNS: VISIT TO MOTHER ANTHONY’S WELL Wiltshire Museum, 41 Long St, Devizes, Wiltshire, SN10 1NS, 01380 727369, www.wiltshiremuseum.org.uk, 10.15am-12.15pm, £4 per child • A visit to the archaeological dig site.

SAT 3 SEP CHILDREN’S CARNIVAL MILE Malmesbury Victoria Football Club, 11 Poole Rd, Malmesbury, Wilts, SN16 9FG, www.malmesburycarnival.co.uk, 10.30am, £3 per child (must be accompanied by an adult) • A safe route around the Malmesbury Victoria football ground for children aged 14 and under. All participants receive a certificate and there are prizes for the winners in each age group.

SAT 3 SEP WYLYE FETE AND DOG SHOW High St, Wylye, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 0QN, 07535 409731, 2pm, free (small charge for some games) • Traditional fun and games including bouncy castle, tombola, coconut shy, fortune teller and human fruit machine, plus stalls, refreshments, live music and dog show.

SAT 3 SEP CALNE FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 0EN, 01249 814000, www.calnefoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk. 10am-4pm, free • Showcase of local food and drink that includes a food market, street

FROM MON 5 SEP FAMILY TRAIL: IN THE NUNS’ FOOTSTEPS Lacock Abbey, Lacock, near Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 2LG, 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/lacock-abbey-fox-tabletmuseum-and-village, 10.30am5.30pm, included in standard admission prices • From toilet drains to spy holes and a massive cauldron; step back 800 years in history with this self-led family trail.

THU 8 SEP SING-A-LONG SOUND OF MUSIC The Bath Arms, Horningsham, Warminster, BA12 7LY, 01985 844308, www.batharms.co.uk, 8.30pm, (dining no later than 8pm), see website for menu and prices • Outdoor sunset cinema on the green lawns. Sing along to your heart’s content with the ‘Sound of Music’, enjoy wood-fired pizza and round off the evening with a special firework display.

FRI 9 SEP UNDER 5S FRIDAY Salisbury Museum, The Kings House, 65 The Close, Salisbury, SP1 2EN, 01722 332151, www.salisburymuseum.org.uk, 10-11.30am, standard admission prices apply • Explore the magic of colour with artist Liza Morgan. Use lots of different materials and techniques to create rainbow-inspired art works.

FRI 9-SUN 18 SEP JANE AUSTEN FESTIVAL Various locations around Bath, 01225 443000, www.janeaustenfestivalbath.co.uk, Times and prices vary, see website • Over a week of Regency-themed celebrations including talks, minibus tours, costumed parade, Austen novel readings, theatre, dance and more.

SAT 10 SEP YOUNG CURATORS CLUB: BEHIND THE SCENES Salisbury Museum, The Kings House, 65 The Close, Salisbury, SP1 2EN, 01722 332151, www.salisburymuseum.org.uk, 10.30amBACK TO SCHOOL 2016

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Riding School & Livery

x Pony days, Horsey days, 2 and 3 hour • Ponypackages days, Horsey

days, 2 and 3 hour x Group, children & packages Adult lessons

• Group, children & Adult lessons

x Hoof Club Riding Club • Hoof Club centre Riding education

Club education centre

x Beginners packages

• Beginners packages

x Pony Parties & venue • Pony Parties & hire

venue hire

Between Cirencester and Wootton (Braydon SN5 0AD) Between Cirencester andBassett, Wootton Bassett,

A modern and clean A moderncentre, and equestrian clean equestrian Highly Commended by centre, Highly the British Horse Society.

Commended by the Two 40x40m outdoor British Horse Society. arenas, undercover spectator’s Two 40x40m gallery, outdoor drinks, snacks & bar. arenas, undercover X Country Course, spectator’s gallery, Show Jump field drinks, snacks & bar.

X Country Course, Show Jump field

Discover a real Roman world beneath your feet

©LW

(Braydon SN5 0AD)

01666 860068 www.reinandshine.co.uk

A Family Day Out at

Beautiful Bowood

Featuring one of the most exciting adventure playgrounds in the South West and home to Tractor Ted’s Little Farm.

01249 812102 www.bowood.org 12

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BACK TO SCHOOL 2016

www.romanbaths.co.uk

Open daily until 31st October, 11am to 5pm.

Bowood House & Gardens, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 OLZ houseandgardens@bowood.org

PRIMARY TIMES

18/08/2016 17:01:31

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

»

ROUNDABOUT Sky Safari, Longleat, Fri 16-Sun 18 Sep.

1pm, standard admission prices apply, must be booked in advance • Find out what it’s really like behind the scenes at the museum, handle real artefacts and join in with craft activities.

SAT 17-SUN 18 SEP WESTON SUPER FOOD FESTIVAL The Tropicana, Marine Parade, Weston-Super-Mare, BS23 1BE, www.westonsuperfoodfestival. co.uk, see website for times, free • Packed weekend of stalls, competitions, workshops, taste tests, storytelling, street theatre and, of course, lots of delicious local food and drink.

SAT 10 SEP HERITAGE OPEN DAY Lacock Abbey, Lacock, near Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 2LG, 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/lacock-abbey-fox-tabletmuseum-and-village, 10.30am5.30pm, free • The grounds, cloister, Tudor abbey and courtyard are open to explore absolutely free.

SAT 10 SEP AUTUMN ARCHAEOLOGY WALK Stonehenge Landscape, 3 Stonehenge Rd, Amesbury, Wiltshire, SP4 7DD, 01980 664780, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/stonehenge-landscape, 2pm4.30pm, £8(adult)/child free • Learn about ancient earthworks and what they reveal about those who once lived there, with the help of a knowledgeable guide. Walk approx. four miles.

SAT 10 SEP GLOW IN THE PARK Longleat Safari Park, Warminster, BA12 7NW, 01985 844400, www.longleat. co.uk, 7.30pm-10.30pm, from £23.50/£19.50 per person in groups of four or more • Night time neon fun through six ‘Glow Zones’ around the park. Powder up in the UV paint zone, get glowing in the Foam Zone and enter the Time Tunnel, all accompanied by light shows and energising beats. Open to all ages and abilities.

SAT 10-SUN 11 SEP THE SWINDON RAILWAY FESTIVAL STEAM, Fire Fly Ave, Swindon, SN2 2EY, 01793 466637, www. steam-museum.org.uk, 10am5pm, £12 (adult)/£8 (child) • Promising the biggest live steam display yet, see traction engines, a replica Swindon Works Hooter, trade stands, real ale bar, BBQ plus all of Steam’s regular exhibits.

SAT 10-SUN 11 SEP SCONE FEST Stourhead, Stourton, Wiltshire, BA12 6QF, 01747 841152, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/stourhead, 9am-6pm, free • Celebrate the great British teatime staple with a variety of homemade sweet and savoury scones.

SAT 10-SUN 11 SEP WARTIME WEEKEND Swindon and Cricklade Railway, Blunsdon Station, Tadpole Lane, Swindon, SN25 2DA, 01793 771615, www.swindon-crickladerailway.org, 10am-5pm/4pm (Sun), £10 (adult)/£6 (child) • Go back in time with military vehicles, live re-enactment battles, living history, train stands, PRIMARY TIMES

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one and everyone is welcome to get involved with the choir, regardless of singing ability.

live entertainment and unlimited train rides.

tures. Bat detectors provided, booking essential.

SAT 10-SUN 11 SEP BRISTOL DOORS OPEN DAY Various venues around Bristol, www.bristoldoorsopenday.org. uk, 10am-4pm, free • Once a year chance to look behind the scenes and discover some of the city’s hidden treasures. Explore buildings, join guided tours or take part in family activities. Participating venues include Bristol Hippodrome, BBC Bristol, Redcliffe Caves, Brunel’s Engine Shed, Spike Island and Blaise Castle House Museum.

WED 14-WED 21 SEP DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY Various venues across Bristol, 0117 902 9730, www.doingthingsdifferently.org.uk, See website for times and prices • Diverse and thoughtprovoking circus-style shows, workshops, exhibitions and talks aiming to highlight and celebrate the city’s diversity.

SAT 10 SEP-SAT 15 OCT (WEEKLY) GO BRASS FOR BEGINNERS Swindon Pegasus Band Hall, opposite Crown Inn, Stratton St. Margaret, Swindon, SN3 4NL, www.swindonpegasus.com, 9.30am-10.30am, free but register in advance by emailing info@swindonpegasus.com • Six week group course for brass beginners or those returning after a break. Free tuition and instruments provided.

TUE 13 SEP TODDLER TRAILS Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dyrham-park, 10.45am-11.30am, free with standard admission prices • Garden trails designed especially for little ones; learn about shape, colour and numbers while exploring nature.

FROM WED 14 SEP DESIGN: MAKE: MODIFY At Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 915 1000, www. at-bristol.org.uk, drop in sessions throughout the day, included in standard admission prices • Add creations to the Ball Run, construct a flyer for the Air Table and use light and shadows to tell a story for the Shadow Box display.

WED 14 SEP BAT WALK Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ dyrham-park, 7-9pm, £5 (adult)/£3 (child) • Explore the gardens in search of the furry nocturnal crea-

FRI 16-SUN 18 SEP SKY SAFARI Longleat Safari Park, Warminster, BA12 7NW, 01985 844400, www.longleat.co.uk, 10am-5pm, included in standard admission prices • More than 50 hot air balloons of all shapes and sizes including inflatable penguins and lions make mass launches throughout the day. Look out for the nightglow event on Sat 17 Sep as balloons fire up their burners in time with music.

SAT 17 SEP YATE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL Yate and District Heritage Centre, Church Rd, Yate, Bristol, BS37 5BG, and St Mary’s Green, Yate.

01454 862200, www.yateheritage. co.uk, 10.30am-4.30pm, free • Expect performances and activities from cultures all around the world bringing people in Yate and South Gloucestershire together.

Children can try Indian games, sari dressing, Chinese calligraphy, craft, and English games. Also, Indian and Polish food, plus African, Indian, Chinese, Irish and English music and dancing throughout the day.

SUN 18 SEP HARVEST MOON FESTIVAL Museum of East Asian Art, 12 Bennett’s Rd, Bath, BA1 2QJ, 01225 464640, www.meaa.org. uk, 12 noon-4pm, storytelling at 12.15pm, 1.15pm and 2.15pm (booking essential), free • Celebrate this ancient East Asian tradition with craft activities inspired by the moon, plus storytelling from Martin Maudsley.

SUN 18 SEP TEDDY BEARS PICNIC Avon Valley Railway, Bath Rd, Bristol, BS30 6HD, 0117 932 5538, www.avonvalleyrailway.org, 9am-5pm, £7.50 (adult)/£5.50 (child) • Children accompanied by a teddy bear travel free on both the steam and diesel hauled trains. Plus plenty of fun throughout the day including balloon modelling, Punch and Judy, teddy bear hunt and arts and crafts.

SUN 18 SEP LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD Wiltshire Music Centre, Ashley Rd, Winsley Rd, Bradford-onAvon, BA15 1DZ, 01225 860100, www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk, 2pm (kids make and play session), concert starts 3pm, £8 (adult)/£4 (child) • Narrator Rebecca Kenny and The Magnard Ensemble present a musical » We’ll Meet Again, STEAM, Swindon, Mon 3-Fri 7 Oct.

SAT 17-SUN 18 SEP EXTRAORDINARY BODIES (DTD) Castle Park, Bristol, BS1 3XD, 07877 581740, www.doingthingsdifferently.org.uk, Extraordinary Bodies: Weighting performances at Castle Park 2 and 6pm Sat and 12 and 3pm Sun, free • A celebration of equality and participation, a high rig performance by the integrated circus company, which will be accompanied by a mass community choir with BSL interpretation, audio description and touch tours: anyBACK TO SCHOOL 2016

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journey into Roald Dahl’s version of the story of a wolf and the girl in red.

TUE 20 SEP HAYESFIELD GIRLS’ SCHOOL OPEN EVENING Upper Oldfield Park, Bath, BA2 3LA, 01225 426151, www.hayesfield.com. 6pm-8.30pm, free • Explore the campus and speak to students and staff at the all-girls secondary school. Also an open morning from 9am on Fri 23 Sep. TUE 20-SUN 25 SEP ENCOUNTERS FILM FESTIVAL Watershed, 1 Canon’s Rd, Bristol, BS1 5TX, 0117 927 5100 and Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 5TX, 0117 917 2300, www. encounters-festival.org.uk, see website for programme times, day pass (Wed, Thu or Fri) £25/ festival pass £75 • Over 200 short film screenings including the children’s 7+ and 11+ awards, industry talks, animation and an exclusive evening with Aardman co-founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton.

WED 21 SEP BAT WALK Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/dyrham-park, 7-9pm, £5 (adult)/£3 (child) • Explore the gardens in search of these furry nocturnal creatures. Bat detectors provided, booking essential.

FRI 23 SEP-FRI 21 OCT PRE-SCHOOL POTTERY Salisbury Arts Centre, Bedwin St, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 3UT, 01722 321744, www.salisburyartscentre.co.uk. 11am-11.45am, £28 per course plus materials • Five week course for children aged 3 and over accompanied by an adult. Build, squish, roll, model and paint together to help develop children’s dexterity and imagination.

THU 22 SEP PEWSEY VALE SCHOOL OPEN EVENING Pewsey Vale School, Pewsey, SN9 5EW, www.pewseyvale.org, 6.30pm • Parents exploring secondary school options can visit

PLEASE CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL . . . AND TELL THEM YOU SAW THE EVENT IN PRIMARY TIMES! David Walliams, just one of the authors appearing at Bath Children’s Literature Festival, Sat 1 to Sun 9 Oct.

this rural, co-educational school with a focus on nurturing its students in an academic environment.

SAT 24 SEP DISCOVER DURRINGTON WALLS Stonehenge Landscape, 3 Stonehenge Rd, Amesbury, Wiltshire, SP4 7DD, 01980 664780, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/stonehenge-landscape, 1.30pm-4pm, £8 (adult)/ free (child) • Explore where the builders of Stonehenge lived and unearth secrets from 6,000 years ago.

SAT 24 SEP MINI CHEFS: HARVEST Vaughan’s Cookery School, Unit 8, White Horse Business Centre, Hopton Road, Devizes, Wiltshire, SN10 2HJ, 01380 530203, www. vaughanskitchen.co.uk, 10.30am12.30pm, £30 per child • Celebrate the tastes of autumn and learn the skill of pasta making, followed by cake making using seasonal fruits. Suitable for ages 6 to 10.

SAT 24 SEP BATH PHILHARMONIA: LA TOMBEAU DE COUPERIN Wiltshire Music Centre, Ashley Rd, Winsley Rd, Bradford-onAvon, BA15 1DZ, 01225 860100/ Bath Phil 07525 857720, www. bathphil.co.uk, 7.30pm, £25 (adult)/£5 (child) • Ravel’s classic piece inspired by his friends killed in the Great War, plus Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony and Vaughan Williams’ Oboe Concerto.

SAT 24-SUN 25 SEP COOKYKIDS AROUND THE WORLD SPECIAL St. Johns Parish Hall, Boreham Road, Warminster, www. cookykids.co.uk, cookykids@ hotmail.com or see Facebook, 2-4pm (Sat & Sun) & 10-12pm (Sun only), £15 per child • All ingredients provided for this baking workshop for children aged 5-8 creating multicultural sweet and savoury treats to take home.

Advance booking essential, contact Fleur for details.

SAT 24-SUN 25 SEP LIVING HERITAGE GAME AND COUNTRY FAIR Bowood House and Gardens, Derry Hill, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 9PQ, 01249 822228, www.bowood. org, 10am-6pm, £13 (adult)/£4 (child)/under 5s free • Three arenas with displays from horse riding, motorcycle stunts, falconry and sheepdog herding. Plus plenty for the family including old fashioned games, racing ferrets, fairground, donkey rides, craft demonstrations and a mini food festival within the fair itself.

TUE 27 SEP SCIENCE THEMED OPEN DAY Langley Fitzurse C of E, Middle Common, Kington Langley, Wiltshire, SN15 5NN, 01249 750295, www.langleyfitzurse. wilts.sch.uk, 9.30am-3pm, free • Meet snails and mini beasts and encounter magnets and forces in hands-on experiments. Year 6s show visitors around the school, with headteacher Becky Harris on hand to answer any questions.

THU 29 SEP-SUN 2 OCT MARLBOROUGH LITFEST (ML) Various locations, prices & time. 01249 701628 (ticket line), www.marlboroughlitfest.org • Marlborough’s seventh annual LitFest offers a mix of fiction, nonfiction, new and young emerging authors, poetry and children’s activities as well as an event with Shakespearean actor Simon Russell Beale to mark the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. See our pick of events for children below marked (ML).

THU 29 SEP THE BIG SCHOOL READ (ML) St John’s Academy, Granham Hill, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 4AX, www.marlboroughlitfest.org, time & prices TBA • Prize-winning author Sally Nicholls discusses her work including ‘An Island of Our Own’. Local secondary school children from surrounding schools are also invited to this talk at St John’s.

Fair, Living Heritage Game & Country

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Bowood, Sat 24-Sun 25 Nov

FRI 30 SEP ABI ELPHINSTONE (ML) Marlborough Town Hall, 5 High St, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 1AA, www.marlboroughlitfest.org, time & prices TBA • Children’s author Abi Elphinstone hosts the LitFest’s

annual primary schools events and talks about her latest novel, ‘The Shadow Keeper’, a sequel to ‘The Dreamsnatcher’.

OCTOBER SAT 1 OCT STORYTELLING (ML) The White Horse Bookshop, 136 High St, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 1HN. www.marlboroughlitfest.org, 10.30am, free • Storytelling session, especially for under-5s. Sarah McIntyre talks about illustration at 11.30am followed by a discussion of her latest book ‘Jinks & O’Hare Funfair Repair’, with Phillip Reeve at 1.30pm.

SAT 1-SUN 2 OCT GREAT WESTERN BRICK SHOW STEAM, Fire Fly Ave, Swindon, SN2 2EY, 01793 466637, www.steammuseum.org.uk. 10am-5pm, £12 (adult)/£10 (child) • A Lego extravaganza featuring unique models made exclusively for the show, classic Lego train layouts, interactive building sessions, competitions and Lego play tables.

SAT 1-SUN 9 OCT BATH CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL (BCLF) Various venues around Bath, see website for full programme of events, times and prices, 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals.org.uk/ childrens-literature • Nine days jam-packed with over 100 talks, activities, story-telling and more.

It’s the festival’s 10th birthday with guests including David Walliams, astronaut Chris Hadfield, Liz Pichon, Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, Michael Morpurgo, children’s laureate Chris Riddell and Malorie Blackman. See our pick of events, marked (BCLF).

SAT 1 OCT DAVID WALLIAMS (BCLF) The Forum, 1A Forum Buildings, Bath, BA1 1UG, 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature, 10am-11am, £8 • Meet one of the biggest names in children’s literature and prepare to laugh as David discusses his life and books.

SAT 1 OCT ROALD DAHL’S MOST VILLANOUS VILLAINS (BCLF) Guildhall, High St, Bath, BA1 5AW, 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals.

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23/08/2016 11:25:00

TENNIS

Team Bath Tennis Autumn Term Mon 5th Sept - Fri 16th Dec Our experienced team of LTA qualified coaches run classes for all ages; from parents and toddlers (3-year olds), tots (4 and 5-year olds) and under-10s, to teenage and adult tennis.

For more information visit: www.teambath.com/sport/tennis/coaching Or contact the tennis office on: 01225 384210 email: tennis@teambath.com

www.teambath.com

PRIMARY TIMES

p15.indd 3

ŠLW

To book call : (01225) 386339

Š JB Images

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23/08/2016 12:35:59

ROUNDABOUT »

org.uk/childrens-literature, 3.15pm4pm, £7 • Blue Peter’s Lindsey Russell oversees the mischief as four guests battle it out to champion their favourite anti-hero. Could it be Miss Trunchbull, the Twits or perhaps the Grand High Witch? Expect plenty of games and quizzes.

SAT 1-SUN 9 OCT KIDS BIG BATH READ (BCLF) Primary Schools around Bath, 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals.org.uk/ childrens-literature/kids-big-bathread • Aiming to encourage reading for pleasure, this year’s event discusses Danny Wallace’s book ‘Hamish and the World Stoppers’.

Look out for illustrations and stories created by the children in response to the book on display during Bath’s Children’s Literature Festival and meet illustrator Jamie Littler on Fri 7 Oct (see listing below).

SAT 1-SUN 30 OCT BRISTOL FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL Various venues across Bristol including the Arnolfini, Children’s Scrapstore and Bristol Museum. www.arnolfini.org.uk/whatson/ series/family-arts-festival-2016, see website for prices and times • Innovation is the theme for this year’s festival: expect more than 60 events including visual arts, film, theatre, music, dance, play and storytelling.

SUN 2 OCT LUCY WORSLEY (BCLF) Guildhall, High St, Bath, BA1 5AW, 01225 462231, www.bathfestivals. org.uk/childrens-literature, 5pm5.45pm, £7.50 • Historian Lucy Worsley discusses her novel ‘Eliza Rose’. Told through the eyes of a maid of honour at Henry VIII’s court, expect costumes and Tudor trivia galore.

MON 3-FRI 7 OCT WE’LL MEET AGAIN STEAM, Fire Fly Ave, Swindon, SN2 2EY, 01793 466637, www. steam-museum.org.uk, 10am-2pm, £12.50 per child • World War II discovery days for Key Stage 2 pupils; meet the ARP warden, discover what it was like to be an evacuee, ‘dig for victory’, play with WW2 toys and much more.

TUE 4 OCT MAKE YOUR OWN MAGICAL GARDEN (BCLF) The egg, 36 Monmouth St, Bath, BA1 2AN, 01225 823409, www. bathfestivals.org.uk/childrensliterature, 2pm-3pm, all tickets £5 • Magical adventure with Chrissie Weltike, inspired by Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’.

Create a fairy garden to take home.

TUE 4-MON 10 OCT WORLD SPACE WEEK At Bristol, Anchor Rd, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB, 0117 915 1000, www.at-bristol.org.uk, 10am-5pm, standard admission prices apply • The Live Science team brings a range of spacethemed activities for visitors to try, including the chance to hold 16

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16 Wilts Roundabout Back to School 2016.indd 18

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

a real meteorite, launch a pop rocket and try space ice-cream.

Salisbury Illuminated Carnival, Fri 21 Oct.

THU 6 OCT TODDLER FOREST SCHOOL Dyrham Park, Dyrham, South Gloucestershire, SN14 8ER, 0117 937 2501, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park, 10.30am-12pm £7(child)/one free adult per paying child • Suitable for children aged 2-4.

FRI 7 OCT HAMISH AND THE WORLD STOPPERS WITH JAMIE LITTLER (BCLF) Guildhall, High St, Bath, BA1 5AW, 01225 394041, www.bathfestivals. org.uk/childrens-literature, 1.152pm, all tickets £4 • Meet the illustrator of this years’ Kids Big Bath Read novel. Expect live drawing and plenty of laughs.

SAT 8 OCT CHRIS RIDDELL: ASK THE LAUREATE (BCLF) The Forum, 1A Forum Buildings, Bath, BA1 1UG, 01225 462231, www. bathfestivals.org.uk/childrensliterature, 3-4pm, all tickets £7.50 • Ask the current children’s laureate a question and he will illustrate the answer, plus the inspiration behind popular works ‘Ottaline’ and ‘Goth Girl’.

SAT 8 OCT MICHAEL MORPURGO (BCLF) Guildhall, High St, Bath, BA1 5AW, 01225 394041, www.bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature, 5-6pm, all tickets £8 • The former children’s laureate and master storyteller discusses the inspiration behind his many books, including latest novel ‘An Eagle in the Snow’.

SAT 8 OCT YOUNG WAHNS: POTTERY Wiltshire Museum, 41 Long St, Devizes, Wiltshire, SN10 1NS, 01380 727369, www.wiltshiremuseum.org.uk, 10.15am-12.15pm, £4 per child • Pottery expert Rosamund Cleal gives a talk followed by a hands-on craft session.

SAT 8 OCT YOUNG CURATORS CLUB: ROMAN MESSAGES Salisbury Museum, The Kings House, 65 The Close, Salisbury, SP1 2EN, 01722 332151, www.salisburymuseum.org.uk, 10.30am1pm, standard admission prices apply, must be booked in advance • Create a Roman style message to the gods, handle real museum artefacts and join in with craft activities.

SUN 9 OCT THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA (BCLF) Bath Central Library, Northgate St, Bath, BA1 5AN, 01225 463362, www.bathfestivals.org.uk/childrens-literature, 3pm-3.45pm, £5 • Judith Kerr’s classic about the tiger with an endless appetite is brought to life by a professional storyteller, plus a lifelike tiger waiting at the door. Enjoy some cake and let your imagination run wild.

THU 13 OCT HAYESFIELD GIRLS’ SCHOOL OPEN AFTERNOON Upper Oldfield Park, Bath, BA2 3LA, 01225 426151, www.hayesfield.com, From 1.30pm, free • Explore the campus and speak to students and staff at the all-girls secondary school.

SAT 15-SUN 16 OCT CRAFT FAIR Stourhead, Stourton, Wiltshire, BA12 6QF, 01747 841152, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/stourhead, 10am-4.30pm, free • Stalls from local artists and craftspeople selling jewellery, pottery, paintings, wood turners and much more.

SAT 15 OCT GRAND PIER’S SIXTH BIRTHDAY Marine Parade, Weston-superMare, Somerset, BS23 1AL, 01934 646155, www.grandpier.co.uk, From 12pm, free • Pirate-themed family fun day featuring face painting, giant games, treasure hunt, craft area, bouncy castle and more.

TUE 18-SUN 30 OCT BIZARRE BEASTS Lacock Abbey, Lacock, near Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 2LG, 01249 730459, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock-abbeyfox-tablet-museum-and-village.

10.30am-5.30pm, included in standard admission prices • Some of Lacock’s stone gargoyles have escaped and are hiding around the grounds. Use a special guide and complete activities to send them safely back to the tower.

FRI 21 OCT SALISBURY ILLUMINATED CARNIVAL Guildhall Square, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 1JH, 01722 342860, www.salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk/c/carnival, From 7.30pm, free • Salisbury streets come to life with a procession of illuminated floats and masquerades.

SAT 22-SUN 23 OCT COOKYKIDS HALLOWEEN SPECIAL St. Johns Parish Hall, Boreham Road, Warminster, www.cookykids. co.uk, cookykids@hotmail.com or see Facebook, 2-4pm (Sat & Sun) & 10-12pm (Sun only), £15 per child • All ingredients provided for this seasonal baking workshop for children aged 5-8 (must be accompanied by an adult), creating spooky sweet and savoury treats to take home.

Advance booking essential.

SAT 22 OCT THE BIG DRAW: WE DO MEAN BIG Victoria Art Gallery, Bridge St, Bath, BA2 4AT, 01225 477233, www.victoriagal.org.uk, 10.30am-12.30pm and 2pm-4pm, standard admission prices apply/free with discovery card • Create a larger than life drawing of yourself. Part of Museums Week.

SAT 22-SUN 30 OCT MUSEUMS WEEK Various locations across Bath and North Somerset, www.bathmuseumsweek.co.uk • The new name for Heritage Open Week which has been running for over 30 years during the autumn half term. Holders of a discovery card get free entry to a range of venues all week, including Bath Fashion Museum, Victoria Art Gallery, Sally Lunn’s House, Bath Abbey and many more. For more info about discovery cards go to www. bathnes.gov.uk/discoverycard MON 24-FRI 28 OCT THE BIG DRAW: EX LIBRIS The Roman Baths, Stall St, Bath, BA1 1LZ, 01225 477785, www. romanbaths.co.uk, 10am-1pm and 2pm-4pm, included in standard admission prices • Part of Museums Week - learn a bit of Latin and make a Roman bookmark.

ROUNDABOUT AND THEATRE LISTINGS BY ELLEN WHITE PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 11:25:21

A child’s

best friend Owning a pet can be a hugely rewarding experience for a family.

Ellen White explores the do’s and don’ts of choosing the right domestic companion.

M

ost parents have heard the heartfelt pleas for a pet from their offspring at one stage or another.

Whether they’re begging for a puppy or a hamster to cuddle or nurture, children have many reasons to want to add a furry or feathered friend to the family.

And children certainly benefit from owning a pet. Behavioural psychologist Dr. Deborah Wells reports in ‘The Independent’ that pet owning children showed higher levels of self-esteem and more advanced cognitive development. Paediatrician James E. Gern has also conducted a number of studies that demonstrate having a pet in the home can lower a child’s likelihood of developing related allergies by up to 33 percent, and that children exposed early on to animals tend to develop stronger immune systems overall.

While there are clear advantages to owning a pet, families must consider a whole range of practical and welfare issues before taking the leap. “Do your research before you even set foot in a pet shop,” urges

PRIMARY TIMES

16 Wilts Features Back to School 2016.indd 7

Richard Angell of Angell Pets, Gloucester. “Many people think an animal like a goldfish is very easy to look after but it’s more work than you’d think! It’s vital to understand that, when you buy an animal, you’re buying it for its lifetime, including the costs that come with it. Some animals need specialist vet treatment and enclosures, and that’s before you factor in a lifetime of food, bedding and extras such as pet insurance.”

Once you’ve evaluated, and decided that you have the time and the finances to support your new commitment, you need to choose a pet that most suits your family and lifestyle.

While they’re not called man’s best friend for no reason, dogs are arguably the most time consuming commitment of all popular pet choices. Even the choice of dog has its own challenges and consequences. Do you want to go for a pedigree, a puppy, a mixed breed dog or an animal from a refuge?

Other considerations include time and living conditions. “A lot of potential pet owners don’t take

into account how much space they need, especially with dogs,” says Alex Ray from Bristol pet shop Alfie and Bella. “We’ve also had a lot of queries from people who work ‘9 to 5’ and want to leave their pet all day: sadly, with dogs, that just isn’t practical or fair.” It’s vital to choose a breed that fits in with your lifestyle and free time. All dogs need exercise every day, but smaller types such as the French bulldog only require one 15 to 20 minute walk, while a border collie needs around two hours per day to run around.

If you’re thinking of buying a pedigree, The Kennel Club website is a good place to start.

Meanwhile, animal shelters have an abundance of rescued dogs who need a loving home. “As well as basics such as food, leads and toys, there are other expenses to consider such as injections, vaccinations and flea treatments,” Alex points out. “Our philosophy is that an animal’s diet is just as important as a human’s, so it’s worth doing your research into what ingredients go into the dog food you’re buying.”

The UK’s second most popular

pets, cats, tend to be more independent than dogs and are comfortable left alone for far longer periods. However, they can have varying personalities and still require a lot of care and attention. Some need a lot of BACK TO SCHOOL 2016

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A child’s

best friend CONTINUED

»

companionship, while others are happier being left to their own devices. Consider whether you’d be happy with either. If you want a devoted lap cat and it spends most of the time outside, you may be disappointed. Whether a cat is indoor or outdoor, they still require a litter tray inside, preferably hidden somewhere private, and a regular feeding schedule such as before and after work. They can also breed up to three times a year, so it’s vital to get the females spayed, if you don’t want a litter of kittens on your hands. You may also want to consider neutering a tom

(boy) cat, as they are notorious for leaving smells around the house and getting into fights with other toms. Again, rescue homes will have many felines in need of a loving family if there are no kittens in your area. “All our animals are temperament assessed so we know which ones are suitable to live with children,” says Rachel Jones from Bath Cats and Dogs Home. “We can advise you on who would be a perfect fit for your family.”

Aside from the family cat, I gained my very own pet aged 9 in the form of a tiny black and white hamster, and it’s easy to see why they remain very

popular first pets for children.

They are relatively inexpensive to keep, don’t take up too much

“Do your research before you even set foot in a pet shop,” Richard Angell, Angell Pets space and keep themselves very clean. Just bear in mind that they are nocturnal so you may not want the cage in anyone’s bedroom as the turn of the hamster wheel can be surprisingly noisy. Richard also recommends rats as an alternative. “Not only are they intelligent, interactive and robust, but their lifespan isn’t too long if you’re worried about children getting bored.”

Meanwhile, adds Rachel, “Guinea pigs are great as they are very social and fun. It’s important that they live with other guinea pigs as they are highly sociable animals.” They may not be as cuddly, but birds can still make great pets for children if you choose a suitable type. A canary is a good option for younger children as they don’t require one-on-one playtime, just food, water and cage

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16 Wilts Features Back to School 2016.indd 8

cleaning. They are also happy to be solitary and famous for singing, although be aware that only male canaries are known for typical singing behaviours.

If children are older or want a more interactive pet then a budgie is a very popular choice.

It can be a great best friend if the child takes the time to tame and interact with it, and it’s usually a quiet pet, although some birds chatter quite a bit or even talk. Alongside daily food, water and cage cleaning, budgies need toys and a play gym to explore.

Be aware, however, budgies and canaries can live up to 15 years, so there’s still a large time investment to consider.

Finally, if you feel ready to add to your family, says Richard, “Please buy from someone who knows what they’re doing: I can’t stress this enough. Beware random online adverts as there’s a chance the animal hasn’t been looked after properly and the advertiser wants to get rid of it quickly.”

Once the main pitfalls of choosing a pet have been avoided, says Rachel, “Caring for an animal is a great learning curve. Children and their pets can become the best of friends.”

Angell Pets T: 01452 501882 W: www.angellpets.com Alfie and Bella T: 0117 973 8617 W: www.alfieandbella.co.uk Bath Cats and Dogs Home T: 01225 787321 W: www.bathcatsanddogshome. org.uk Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary T: 01275 474719 W: www.hollyhedge.org.uk The Kennel Club W: www.thekennelclub.org.uk The Moggery Rehoming Centre T: 0117 9243128 W: www.themoggeryrehoming centre.co.uk Pets at Home W: www.petsathome.com RSPCA W: www.rspca.org.uk PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 11:21:41

ADVERTISING FEATURE

d r a o b n Pi

Parents’ & teachers’

news, education & contacts

Cooking fun

Science themed Open Day Get along to Langley Fitzurse C. of E. Primary School on Tue 27 Sep (9.30am3.00pm) for a day of scientific discovery.

Families will encounter snails, mini beasts, magnets and other forces in its hands-on experiments, which aim to amaze, excite and inspire visitors!

Year 6 children will show parents around this delightful rural primary school, and little ones will be looked after in the school’s crèche.

Headteacher, Mrs Becky Harris will be on hand to answer questions, and there will be a plentiful supply of tea/ coffee and cakes made in the dedicated children’s kitchen.

Located in the beautiful village of Kington Langley, the school has strong links to its local church and community, but it welcomes applications from the wider Chippenham area. If you feel that your child would thrive in a village setting with a family atmosphere, do pay a visit to the school.

Ffi: Langley Fitzurse C of E Primary School W: www.langleyfitzurse.wilts.sch.uk

Juggle, balance and smile!

Returning to work the Domestic Angels way When the school run is your priority, does the prospect of answering to a boss seem suffocating? Is your potential restricted by limited part-time jobs for folk returning to work? With the Domestic Angels (DA) franchise you can be your own boss, developing your own sustainable business which will flex and grow with your family as well as nurturing and growing your own entrepreneurial potential.

The franchise is based on years of trading experience and success, offering you structured processes to ensure all business bases are covered.

DA is ready to offer you a business opportunity for which it has already done the groundwork, so you can enjoy your new flexible prioritised life/work balance from day one.

Contact the franchise today for your free copy of its Expert Guide.

Ffi: Domestic Angels T: 01202 267350 E: franchise@domestic-angels.com

PRIMARY TIMES

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Cookykids is an exciting company offering cookery classes for young children, run by a qualified food technol-

ogy teacher.

During its weekly toddler group (for children aged 2 to 5) each child cooks, tastes and learns about food in a safe, fun environment, and the best bit is there is no tidying up! The sessions cost £7.50 including all ingredients, foods for tasting, refreshments and a recipe card, as well as a bag to take your goodies home in!

The company knows how much 5 to 8 year olds also love to cook, which is why it is running Cookykids Special sessions throughout the year so they can join in the fun as well!

Book now for the Around the World Special on Sat 24-Sun 25 Sep. Sessions are two hours long and cost £15 (children must be accompanied by an adult). Find the Cookykids page on Facebook to see pictures from the previous Specials.

Ffi: Cookykids W: www.cookykids.co.uk

Take the 30 Day Challenge!

Getting children to do extra maths outside the classroom can be an outright battle of wills for parents. We all know how hard it can be to get children doing more worksheets, especially when they look suspiciously like homework.

The Maths Factor has created the 30 Day Challenge to motivate children and boost their maths skills with 10 to 15 minutes of play and practice daily for 30 days. Don’t worry if that sounds daunting - there are online prizes for managing just 15 days. But any child who does manage a Maths Factor session every day for 30 days receives a real Maths Factor medal in the post.

“Zoe has found the 30 day challenges very motivating and it has been heart-warming to watch her progress in maths from struggling and believing she was slow and no good at maths to being confident, fast on her multiplication recall, and believing that she really can do it.” Tanya Markwick parent, May 2016.

Try your first month today for £4.99 (RRP £9.99). Visit the Maths Factor website (see below) and use code TMF1M5-PT9 at the checkout.

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

What a show!

Perform is a unique type of children’s drama school.

Focusing on child development, it uses a specially formulated mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s true potential. Small class sizes ensure lots of individual attention by the experienced actor-teachers who focus on developing the four “C”s: confidence, communication, coordination and concentration and having the best fun of the week.

From September, Perform 4 to 7s take to the skies with Phileas Fogg for an amazing voyage of discovery ‘Around the World’. Whether learning to ‘Walk like a Wallaby’ in the outback or revealing the legends of the Great Pyramids in Egypt, the new term is a fantastic globetrotting adventure!

Meanwhile, the 7 to 12s children work on ‘Ebenezer’, based on Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’. This fun-filled production, complete with rapping ghouls and break-dancing spirits is a guaranteed festive extravaganza. Perform is held at venues in Bradford on Avon, Chippenham and Salisbury It offers a no-obligation, free trial session.

Ffi and to book: T: 0207 255 9120 E: enquiries@perform.org.uk W: www.perform.org.uk

Supportive and academic Pewsey Vale School is pleased to invite parents to its Open Evening, Thu 22 Sep at 6:30pm. As a small co-educational secondary school in rural Wiltshire it takes pride in its ability to nurture all its students in a supportive yet highly academic environment.

It has a relentless focus on maintaining the highest level of expertise in all of subject areas and, as a consequence, its students not only achieve outstanding progress and attainment at GCSE but go on to achieve success in a range of academic and vocational fields.

The Open Evening this year includes a talk from headteacher Carol Grant and a treasure hunt enabling prospective students to experience a range of activities in its grounds. The school hopes parents will experience this unique environment for themselves this month.

Ffi: Pewsey Vale School W: www.pewseyvale.org

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23/08/2016 11:35:09

Adver tising Feature “I would just like to say how amazing it was on Saturday, the kids all had a fantastic time.”

Success ahoy!

Dauntsey’s Jolie Brise takes top spot in Tall Ships race for second year in a row

Tall Ship Jolie Brise.

Pic: Andy Styles

This year’s winning team

• Tall Ship Jolie Brise and her crew of Dauntsey’s pupils are celebrating winning the Tall Ships Races for the second year in a row.

The vessel joined the Tall Ships fleet this summer, sailing more than 1,900 nautical miles over 38 days, visiting ports in Belgium, Portugal and Spain.

Dauntsey’s pupils joined the energetic crew parade at A Coruña in Spain for the prestigious final prize-giving ceremony and were delighted to collect the trophy for winner in Class B and overall winner. She also picked up the award for the youngest crew in the fleet.

Toby Maris, Skipper, Dauntsey’s School said, “This was an amazing achievement by all 30 pupils who took part. There was some very rough weather and plenty of hard work, needing a lot of grit and determination. It is no small achievement to win the series whilst being the youngest crew.”

BIRTHDAY

PARTIES Combine activities for a birthday adventure:

■ Assault course

■ Archery

■ High/low ropes

■ Tunnel maze

■ Climbing wall

■ Sports parties

■ Zorbing

■ Party tea

For more information visit

www.mojoactive.co.uk or call 01454 660075 Holiday clubs | Parties | High Ropes Schools | Stag & Hen Parties | Fitness Corporate Teambuilding

Ffi: Dauntseys W: www.dauntseys.org

Adver tising Feature

What a dramatic year - so far!

• Bristol School of Performing Arts (BSPA) is currently enjoying its most successful year in its 50 year history. Constant upgrading in the technical department of its in-house Hart Theatre has allowed students to perform to an increasingly high standard, while recent professional successes have only served to further enhance the growing reputation of this renowned West Country performing arts academy.

BSPA has a further reason to be proud thanks to its recent LAMDA Drama and Musical Theatre exam results, which notched up a 100% overall pass rate, most attaining a pass with distinction and 20% achieving maximum marks.

Forthcoming professional involvement looks equally exciting, with students involved with the Hippodrome productions of ‘Aladdin with Torvill & Dean’, ‘Evita’, and ‘Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’. Following the run of ‘Joseph’ in Bristol, BSPA re-joins the cast for a further week in Cardiff.

The school prides itself on its fully professional Londonsourced teaching faculty, whose team travels to Bristol each week to teach at White Hart Lodge, Brislington, offering instruction and industry contacts equal to - and above - any recognised London drama school. Why go to London when the best is on your doorstep?

In September, BSPA starts its association with the performing arts course at St Brendon’s Sixth Form College: even more reason to “look local” when making any arrangements to study Performing Arts on a full time basis. So why not make a dramatic move, and join BSPA on its exciting journey! Ages from 2 years to 102 years.

Ffi: BSPA T: 07714 495373 W: www.bspa.biz E: info@bspa.biz

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PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 11:28:39

Adver tising Feature “We loved every minute and can’t wait to come back again. Fear of heights conquered!”

Ultimate laser tag!

• Whether you’re aged 6 or 66 you’ll love the adrenaline and exhilaration of stalking your opponents and unleashing a volley of laser fire in the Battle-Zone of the next Century! A part of Swindon’s Laser Quest, the experience is exhilarating and immersive, with fun lurking around every corner. According to the attraction, this is the ultimate in interactive entertainment.

Laser Quest provides a unique venue with the emphasis on fun and excitement whatever the occasion. In essence, Laser Quest is a game of tag with a twist. Points are awarded every time you ‘zap’ another player, with points deducted every time you are ‘zapped’.

At the end of each game, scores are displayed on the giant screen, with each player receiving an individual score card with a full tally.

The game is played in a purpose-built arena with castle towers, turrets, ramps, mazes, swirling fog and state-of-the-art sound and lighting effects.

Laser Quest offers a wide range of packages - turn up and play (booking recommended) or celebrate a birthday with one of the party packages.

Younger adventurers are not forgotten: they have their very own soft play area, Spaceplay, which is ideal for babies, toddlers and infants. Spaceplay offers an indoor, multilevel adventure play frame with ramps, tunnels, slides, ball pits, viewing porthole and a wobbler seesaw, all set to a clean space age theme. Laser Quest and Spaceplay are open seven days a week, 10am to late.

Ffi: Laser Quest Swindon W: www.lqswindon.co.uk

Adver tising Feature

Something Spookley this way comes • For a new wholesome family experience this autumn, get along to the Spookley Pumpkin Festival at Farrington’s Farm Shop. Pick from thousands of homegrown pumpkins from their pumpkin patch field, carve Spookley shapes and try some seasonal pumpkin dishes. Or cosy up and listen to the heart-warming story of Spookley, the square shaped pumpkin.

Supporting the national anti-bullying week, Spookley tells the story of a square pumpkin who lives in a pumpkin patch with a crop of round pumpkins. His appearance leads to him being bullied by the other vegetables because he is a different shape. Our hero eventually saves the day and befriends the other pumpkins, in a tale that helps children to accept differences in people and to talk about their own concerns in a positive way.

The Farrington’s Spookley pumpkin festival takes place at Farrington’s Farm Shop over the weekend of Sat 15 and Sun 16 Oct and the half term week from Fri 21 to Mon 31 Oct. It is one of a number of Spookley festivals taking place across the UK this autumn, but the only one in the South West outside Devon and Cornwall.

Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the Pumpkin Express and take a look around the charming shopping village and farm shop, packed full of seasonal produce and hundreds of home-made products.

The Café and Farm Shop serve a variety of pumpkin and autumn recipes, perfect for warming up on a cold autumn day. And, once the children are all pumpkin-ned out, they can let off some steam in the playbarn while parents relax with a coffee.

Ffi: Farrington’s Farm Shop T: 01761 452266 (opt 3.)

W: www.farringtons.co.uk/events

PRIMARY TIMES

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HIGH

ROPES A tree-top adventure with 15 exciting challenges!

■ Open weekends and throughout school holidays ■ Sessions last 1.5 hours

■ Minimum height 1.3m ■ Can also be booked as part of a birthday party or holiday club

For more information visit

www.mojoactive.co.uk or call 01454 660075 Holiday clubs | Parties | High Ropes Schools | Stag & Hen Parties | Fitness Corporate Teambuilding

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23/08/2016 11:28:48

Hello Kids!

Our friends at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm enjoyed your last set of pictures so much that they are offering a free family ticket to three lucky winners of my next art competition. The subject is Animals and People, so send me your paintings or drawings about any of the different ways animals work, play or live with us humans.

It can be any type of animal you like, from pets and farm animals to wildlife.

So send me your pictures to: Arty Barty, Primary Times, 1 Temple Way, Bristol, BS2 0BY, or email high resolution jpegs to my editor at: mike.gartside@localworld. co.uk Don’t forget your name, age, full home postal address and the name of your school.

Deadline: Mon 12 Sep. Have fun!

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

Arty Barty Your ideas for useful robots were so inventive, it was very hard to choose the best pictures. Congratulations to the winner who receives a family ticket to At Bristol.

7, Richard Hancock, imary Corsham Regis Prhire Academy, Wilts rson “Help!” says the pe wave nt in the sea as a gia Luckily looms over them. guard Richard’s robot lifethe day is on hand to saveety ring with a special saf hands. and robot glowing des of The different sha d for use blue Richard has d with the sea contraste e this sur en ot rob the red ght and picture is very bri colourful.

WINNER! Harikesh Rajanikanth, 6, Field Court C of E Infant Academy, Gloucester Regular contributor Harikesh has drawn a robot building another robot! I love the way their brightly coloured buttons stand out against the grey.

Amaris Messenger, 8, St Lawrence C of E Primary, Lechlade Amaris’s ‘Sleep Tight’ robot looks so friendly and inviting with his stripy pyjamas and twinkly, star-shaped head. His very important job is to put you to bed and read stories, so your parents can get on with other important work, she says.

Delightfully cursed

Tracing 40,000 years of art, from prehistoric cave paintings to the present day, this illustrated collection of short stories blends fiction, history and art in one sturdy hardback tome. The book really is a joy to read and very accessible; you could start at the beginning and trace the history of art chronologically, or dip in and out as you feel, and learn about Vincent Van Gogh one day and Ancient Chinese artists the next.

The art featured spans both geography and genre, from Leonardo da Vinci and Frida Kahlo to Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai.

Author Michael Bird incorporates real-life facts about artists’ lives and techniques into each story, and every page is richly illustrated either with Kate Evans’ watercolours or photographs of the artists’ work. At £19.95 it’s on the pricier side, but it’s such high quality it would make a lovely gift for any child with an interest in art, history or both. (Ellen White)

As a huge Harry Potter fan, I greeted the release of ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ with anticipation.

Presenting the story in play format, J.K. Rowling and her colleagues John Tiffany and Jack Thorne encapsulate what so many people fell in love with in the original Harry Potters, and bring a fresh perspective to the series. ‘Cursed Child’ deals with traditional Potter themes including friendship and family, but introduces our characters to new challenges such as overcoming past prejudices. In the developing relationship between Harry and his son, Albus, we discover that the latter does not share his father’s fondness for the old school, Hogwarts, and is rubbish at Quidditch.

It’s a delight to meet our old heroes Harry, Ron and Hermione, now middle-aged, while the new characters are a highlight of the play. As well as Albus, fresh faces include Scorpius, Draco’s son, who is unexpectedly witty and nerdy, plus Rose, Hermione and Ron’s daughter, who’s as brilliant as her mother but harbours preconceived grudges. This new chapter in the Harry Potter story does not disappoint established readers like me, and is sure to win over new fans. (Caitlin Gartside)

Vincent’s Starry Night and Other Stories by Michael Bird, illustrated by Kate Evans, £19.95, Laurence King Publishing, www.laurenceking.com

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany & Jack Thorne, £20, Little, Brown, www.littlebrown.co.uk

Primary Times reviews the new releases.

Discovering art

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PRIMARY TIMES

23/08/2016 11:29:53

Classifieds Party Ideas

24 & 25 SEPTEMBER

Turn back the clock as we remember the importance of the railways in the War effort

ty of locomot ives will be pulling passeng er and freight trains on this special weekend

SPOOKY HALF TERM TRAIN RIDES

0003

OCTOBER

AUTUMN GALA

15 & 16 OC TOBER A varie

25 – 27 & 29 – 30 OCTOBER FREE train rides for children in fancy dress

DRUMMING PARTIES

Rhythm Games • African Drumming Native American: Drumming & Stories • Traditional Tipis 01672 288815 or 07729 638144 kaya@kayadrums.com www.kayadrums.com

QUALITY SWIMMING LESSONS FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES. SMALL CLASSES & STROKE TECHNIQUE A PRIORITY AT ST. MARY REDCLIFFE SCHOOL

EVERY WEEK DAY 4-6PM & SATURDAY 9AM ONWARDS CLIFTON HIGH SCHOOL SUNDAY 9-11AM

The SUNSHINE CLOWNS Clowning - Puppets Balloon Modelling Magic - Music Storytelling Games & Competitions Also Face Painting & Fun Disco C.R.B. Approved

2031

1940s WEEKEND

October

ren to Another chance for child their travel FREE if they bring teddy Teddy Bear. Plus a family bear trail and craft activities

2036

NIC TEDDY BEARS’ PIC R BE EM 18 SEPT

1940

SEPTEMBER

SEPTEMBER

(All events subject to change or cancellation without prior notice).

DECEMBER Meet Father Christmas aboard his steam train.

Each child receives a quality gift

FULL DETAILS SEE WEB:

www.wavesswimschool.co.uk OR CONTACT JENNY 07749908599 JACKIE 07749908599 | CAROLINE 01275 865185

Tel: 01225 352005 www.sunshineclowns.co.uk

©LW

Fabulous Jewellery Making Parties for Girls

Tel: 0117 932 5538 www.avonvalleyrailway.org Bitton Railway Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol BS30 6HD

PRE-SCHOOL CLASSES: 2.5YRS SCHOOL AGE CLASSES: 4 YRS UPWARDS MINI SQUAD SESSIONS ADULT LESSONS • DUAL LESSONS INDIVIDUAL LESSONS: ALL AGES

©LW

AUTUMN 2016

Swimming

Making swimming lessons fun for all ages & abilites

Clifton:

“A tojewellery andparty your friends totreasure” trtreasure.

Making gorgeous for you

&

Westbury-On-Trym: Junior Lifeguard Academy

and your friends to treasure.

Call Karen on Visit us at www.lillyinlemon.co.uk or 925218 call07899 Denise on 01202 463104 or

Ages 8 upwards - Sat 1.45pm and Tuesday 7.15pm Must be able to swim 50m + wearing clothes

New Advanced Lane classes opening in September on Sunday and Tuesday

www.lillyinlemon.co.uk

Baby, preschool, individual & pairs lessons available in a private pool near Thornbury

Fabulous Jewellery Making Parties for Girls

Register online: www.splash-Happy.co.uk E-mail: hazel@splash-happy.co.uk Tel: 01454 228817 ©LW

Tuition CHILDREN'S DRUM LESSONS From age 7 upwards Individual Lessons Experienced and qualified teacher Enhanced DBS clearance Musicians’ Union Member

Crime scene investigation parties and workshops for children age 7+ tel 0117 244 0053 web www.thedetectiveproject.co.uk

©LW

Spaces available so ring now to book a trial lesson!

Full details on www.clairewhite.moonfruit.com CLAIRE WHlTE - Phone 0117 9332983 Email; clairedrumschool@sky.com

Book now for FREE bouncy castle hire

• Tuition on Acoustic and Electric Guitar • Beginners to advanced (any age welcome!)

• Enhanced CRB/DBS clearance • Available to teach in school holidays • Discounts available for teaching small groups • Able to travel city wide

Limited period only

PRIMARY TIMES

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Tuition

JIM JOHNSTON

Tel: 0787 0887242 E-mail: jim@jimjohnstonmusic.com www.guitarlessonsbristol.com

JUNIOR TENNIS LESSONS at Devizes Tennis Club

Monday - Friday from 4pm Term time 4yrs - 18yrs Plus Tots Tennis on Mon, Fri & Sat Email: devizesjuniortennis@gmail.com www.devizestennisclub.org.uk

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

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