Primary Times West Midlands October half term 2012

for parents, teachers and children

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

In The Mid lands & Black C ountry

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SAT 22 DEC – WED 16JAN 0121 345 0602 www.thsh.co.uk

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Welcome

PINBOARD

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HALLOWEEN FEATURE

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ROUNDABOUT

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THEATRE

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BONFIRE NIGHT SAFETY PETS CORNER

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Don’t forget to check the website for more Primary Times news, lists and reviews at www.primarytimes.net/midlands_homepage

Primary Times in the West Midlands and the Black Country Publisher: Publishing Ink, Fifth Floor, White House, 111 New Street, Birmingham B2 4EU T: 0121 631 6101 F: 0121 336 1936 Managing Director: Andrew Riley T: 0121 631 5580 Advertising Dept: 0121 631 6101 Sales: E: sales@publishingink.co.uk Design: Damian Bennett, Mark Sargent You can now follow us on Twitter and Facebook! @PrimaryTimesMid Primary Times Midlands and The Black Country

Primary Times West Midlands and The Black Country is independently published and distributed free through primary schools in The West Midlands and The Black Country.

It is also available by subscription at £10 per year. It aims to inform families and children about 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. It is NOT our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically-based 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. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or the relevant contributor.

We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible.

Primary Times is currently publishing over 2 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout Britain. Primary Times in The West Midlands and The Black Country is operated under franchise licence.

Disclaimer: All reasonable efforts have been taken to give accurate information and any facts given are true to the best of our knowledge. However, you should rely wholly on your own enquiries and take advice where appropriate. Information is correct at time of going to press.

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0121 733 6558 www.ksol.co.uk OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

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Have your little on es been good this year? This Christmas, give yo ur children the be st present they can dream of: a letter from Santa . The NSPCC’s annual festive campaign asks for a small donation of £5 and in return yo ur child will receive a fun, colou rful, personalised letter from the man himself.

Visit www.nspcc.o rg.uk/ santa from Octob er 1 for more inform ation or call 0845 839 9304 to place your order.

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e fund th d help n a 3 1 th 20 d arch 28 ness an n on M rs fu u o e m th g aware tu in s in rm a Join a fo r re c b ooked ay of in gainst en overl a fun w fight a r an oft Day’ is fo t y a e H n o a m ‘Wear raising a hat to people to wear le getting p o in e p er. into bra e ask of canc r that w r vital research a e e k y a ry m e y ev cial funds fo rage people to It’s a da rk, at so ss and u o e o n w c t n re a e a l, w e o a w o e n h is e c s ra wh . A day r a hat to tumours in order to wea arch, s ur Rese n home. in Tumo than 1% of donatio t ra a B n f e o v or e ctor less events ith, Dire receives et this deadly y gton-Sm our research in K rr U a F e e th m ny Su rain tu ding in n ‘B 0 than a . e 4 ts p r s n e e h d n rc u a 13 e s 0 s lt comm 2 u re r h 28th and ad l cance children volved on Marc nationa re o m kills et in disease er so please g nc a c h r it e w th o terest r your in arch.org e s e rr u Registe o braintum sarah@

Coughton Court, Baddesley Clinton and Packwood House www.primarytimes.net

Between Sat 27 October - Sun 4 November.

Contact properties for opening dates and times This half term, visit the National Trust in Warwickshire for family fun days out. Don't miss Halloween at Baddesley and Packwood and the Gunpowder plotters at Coughton Court! www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Registered charity number 205846.

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OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

RESCUE RUN

St John Ambulan ce has launched an online game help introduce pe to ople to life savin g first aid. The aim of the game is to get the main chara cter to the cinema meet his friends, to whilst gaining point s by using basic fi aid along the way. rst This is an easy to use tool for children and prior first aid knowledge is not required. The game be found at www. can sja.org.uk/rescueru n.

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The Celtic druids of ancient Ireland celebrated their New Year on November 1st with a festival called ‘Samhain’. On the eve of this festival they would build a huge bonfire to drive out the evil spirits before the onset of winter.

The Christian church decided that the 1st November should be All Saints Day (or All Hallows as it was known in medieval times) and 31st October, the eve of this feast day became known as Hallows Eve – now called Halloween.

We also get our tradition of wearing masks and dressing up in costumes from the Celts. They wore costumes made from animal heads and furs to the Samhain bonfires to confuse the evil spirits!

ns g lanterns from pumpki The tradition of carvin en a wh and Irel in d ate gin is said to have ori a h named Jack struck mischievous blacksmit entry into ied den s wa and il deal with the dev Heaven. ember (glowing coal) devil gave Jack a small The story goes that the ss. When the Irish kne dar the in light his way in a carved out turnip to m but used the y took the tradition with emigrated to America, the ips! pumpkins instead of turn n or, for a change, al face into your pumpki ition trad a ve car You could sure you have ke Ma . or cat shape instead why not try a bat, spider re are so many The lf. rse you cut to careful not an adult to help and be ilable now ava ash pkins, turnips and squ sizes and shapes of pum ether with tog k stic and er oth h top of eac – why not stack them on er! nst r own Halloween mo toothpicks to create you

Trick or treating can be great fun but you should remember that some people can find trick or treaters knocking on their door frightening, so only go to people you know or who have a pumpkin lantern displayed.

Get yourself a great costume – dressing up is part of the fun.

Make sure you’ve put a lantern in the window and have some treats ready by the door for when your friends come knocking.

www.primarytimes.net 6

If you do go trick or treating, follow these safety tips • Never trick-or-treat alone, ideally have a grown up or at least 2 friends with you.

• Carry a torch, wear a watch and tell someone what time you will be back.

• On dark roads, make sure you are visible to cars.

• Only accept treats in the doorway, NEVER go inside a stranger’s house.

• Don’t throw ANYTHING at ANYONE!

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

Fill a large basin with water. Drop in several apples.

Kneel or stand by the side of the basin with your hands behind your back. Take a deep breath and open your mouth wide. Now comes the bobbing. Try to grab the apple with your teeth.

Put a bowl of lemon juice on the table. Give each guest a toothpick or a paintbrush and a piece of paper. Each guest must dip their toothpick or paintbrush into the lemon juice and then write a message on the paper.When it is dry swap messages with each other. If you hold the paper in front of a light bulb, the letters will darken revealing the secret message.

1. Cut out a cat shape from black felt or black cardboard or even paper.

2. Use fabric paint or glue to add the eyes, nose, and whiskers.

3. Cut out several tails from black felt or cardboard or paper and sew or glue the tails to a hook or pin that can be attached to the cat.

4. Stick the cat shape onto a wall or door.

5. Each person takes a turn (with a blindfold on) to try to stick the tail onto the cat.

WITCH’S FIN GERS Cook some sa usages and cu t them lengthw out on a plate ays. Fan 5 of th as fingers and em put a dollop of of each of them ketchup on the for red fingerna end ils .

FROG SPAW N Make up some green or yellow jelly and pour int or dishes. Leav o small mould e for a few minu s tes to partially some black sw set and then ad eets like wiggly d in worms or blac set fully and th k jelly tots. Leav en tell your frie e to nds to eat the tadpoles!

Wrap a large (clean!) bowl or basin in black paper to make your cauldron & decorate. Fill the cauldron full of “witch’s brew.” Begin with a mixture of your favourite fruit juices, add some fizzy water (or lemonade), add chunks of fruit (cut in star & moon shapes) and a few drops of green food colouring for an evil looking brew.

how will you keep the little ones busy this Halloween?

From spooky walks to pumpkin parties there are plenty of ways to scare yourself silly with the National Trust in the Midlands.

Visit nationaltrust.org.uk/midlandspumpkin to find your spooky half-term adventure with the National Trust.

PLUS visit primarytimes.net/competitions.php for your chance to win a free National Trust family pass.

Discover Baddesley Clinton, Packwood House, Wightwick Manor and Gardens, Coughton Court, Charlecote Park and Upton House and Gardens. Š The National Trust 2012. Registered Charity No. 205846. Š The National Trust Images/John Millar

theatre In the Midlands and Black Country Artrix Theatre Box Office: 01527 577330 School Drive, Bromsgrove

NIA Birmingham

www.artrix.co.uk

Box Office: 0844 338 8000 King Edwards Road, Birmingham

Sunday 18 November

www.thenia.co.uk

TREASURE ISLAND

October 24 - November 4

Disney On Ice presents Passport to Adventure Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure with Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Disney On Ice presents Passport to Adventure which will see the duo embark on a magical journey, giving you the chance to see your favourite Disney characters live on ice. From Ariel and Sebastian’s enchanting undersea kingdom and the Pride Lands on The Lion King, to the starry skies of Peter Pan, this show is guaranteed to capture your imagination. Tickets are from £14.

Wolverhampton Grand Box Office: 01902 429212 Lichfield Street, Wolverhampton www.grandtheatre.info

November 22-24

Angelina Ballerina: The Mousical Everyone’s favourite dancing mouse, Angelina Ballerina is back on stage. Angelina is pirouetting her way onto the stage in a magical show packed full of singing, dancing, entertainment and mouse-tastic tunes. Tickets are £15.50 for adults and £12.50 for children. Check website for performance times.

Shiver me timbers, it’s Treasure Island – with Jassa from Disney’s Art Attack!

Ahoy there shipmates! Come and be a pirate.

Set sail for fun and adventure with Jassa Ahluwalia as Jim Hawkins, Long John Silver, and all their friends in this wonderful show for all the family. Meet the Pirates, the pretty Island Princess and Mrs. Hawkins the cook, not forgetting Polly Parrot! When young Jim Hawkins discovers a secret treasure map an exciting story starts to unfold. Watch out for Black Dog who’s out to steal the treasure for himself and laugh with Silly Billy Bones and Ben Gunn who likes nothing more than cheese! With plenty of comedy and music, colourful costumes and a strong storyline, this is terrific entertainment from The Derek Grant Organisation, producers of top quality shows at theatres all over the country, gaining reviews such as “utter delight from start to finish” (Dorset Evening Echo).

Sunday 18th November at 2pm Tickets from £9.50. £7.50 (over 60s & under 16s). £30 (Family - any 4)

December 8 - January 20

Jack And The Beanstalk

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This Christmas, gather up your family, friends and neighbours and get yourself down to Wolverhampton Grand Theatre for their star studded pantomime extravaganza Jack And The Beanstalk, starring the fabulous Sherrie Hewson from Loose Women and Benidorm.

Sherrie Hewson will be joined on stage by Keith Harris and the loveable Orville and Cuddles who will play Simple Simon, Jack’s brother.

Joining Sherrie and Keith is former Coronation Street star Ken Morley as King Crumble, Grand Theatre favourite Niki Evans in the role of Fairy Fortune and Nigel Ellacott as Dame Trott. They have all been enlisted to help Jack save the Princess Apricot and defeat the evil giant!

Jack And The Beanstalk promises to be another sensational combination of comedy, music and stunning special effects

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

Birmingham Town Hall

Belgrade Theatre

Box Office: 0121 345 0600 Victoria Square, Birmingham www.thsh.co.uk

Box Office: 024 7684 6738 Belgrade Square, Coventry www.belgrade.co.uk

28 Nov 2012 - 5 Jan 2013

Saturday 22 December Wednesday 16 January 2013

Sleeping Beauty

The Gruffalo’s Child Following hot on the heels of The Gruffalo’s sell out tour and his monstrous West End success comes The Gruffalo’s Child – with attitude! Just how brave is she? Find out for yourselves by joining her at Town Hall this Christmas.

One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s child ignores her father’s warning and tiptoes out into the snow. After all, the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist… does he?

Tall Stories Theatre Company returns, bringing Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s awardwinning sequel to life in this magical, musical adaptation.

Tickets from £10.50 plus £2.50 fee per transaction on all bookings except purchases made in person at the Box Office.

The Old Rep Theatre Box Office: 0121 245 4455 Station Street, Birmingham www.oldreptheatre.co.uk

14th November 2012 - 2nd February 2013

The Birmingham Stage Company

presents JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH The classic story of James, a lonely young boy who lives with Aunt Sponge and Aunt Spiker, two of the most revolting Aunts in England. They make him work and slave and never let him play with other children. Then one day he meets a mystical old man who gives him a bag that contains the strongest magic the world has ever known. When James accidentally spills the bag near an old peach tree, the most incredible things start to happen – and James’s adventure has just begun! Tickets from £12

Written and directed by Iain Lauchlan Sleeping Beauty tells the tale of a beautiful Princess who is cursed at her Christening by the wicked Fairy Carabosse, which means that on her 18th birthday she will prick her finger on a spinning wheel and die.

The good Fairy Azuriel offers some hope. She changes the spell to ensure that the Princess won’t die but will fall into an enchanted sleep for 100 years from which she will only wake if kissed by the one she loves.

Join Nurse Nanny Nora, Josh the Jester and the dashing Prince Valiant as they battle with dragons and time machines to ensure that the Prince is ready to wake the sleeping Princess on time.

Tickets from £12, (kids from just £9) Concessions: £9 - £18

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

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Sat 1 Dec 10am – 6pm & Sun 2 Dec 10am – 4pm.

A weekend for families to get into the Christmas spirit at Warwick Arts Centre.

Christmas 2012

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Thu 29 Nov - Sun 30 Dec Ages: 3+

“A fun-filled frolic.” “A perfect mini-adventure…”

The Guardian Warwick Arts Centre

The Daily Mail @warwickarts

box office: 024 7652 4524 / www.warwickartscentre.co.uk 50p per ticket booking fee applies

Warwick Arts Centre, The University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL

t o n o b d u ru a October 22-26

Animal handling with Tropical Inc

Join Steve and his feathery, hairy, slithery, scary and furry friends for a week of up close and personal animal fun at Thinktank Birmingham. Sessions at 12pm, 1.30pm and 3.30pm. Free to Thinktank ticket holders.

Visit www.thinktank.ac for information and ticket prices.

ScooterMania This Autumn and Winter, be transported to the 1950s and 60s, as Coventry Transport Museum presents a delightful new exhibition of British scooters from these two fascinating decades.

Whilst many people are familiar with the Italian scooters favoured by the Mod generation, this new exhibition showcases over 40 scooters made right here in Britain – and there are quite a few weird and wonderful surprises in store. All of the scooters on display were collected by one man, and they include well-known British names such as Triumph, BSA and Raleigh, as well as more ‘obscure’ manufacturers such as DMW, DKR and Dunkley, to offer a unique perspective on this iconic form of personal transport. Of course the scooters themselves are the stars of the show, but they are complemented by eye-catching displays of advertising, fashion and furnishings from the 50s and 60s, to create an experience that is both nostalgic and surprising, and is bound to get you talking! Open 10am to 5pm daily. Admission is FREE.

October 10 – November 17

Lecture Brunches – Autumn Series at Baddesley Clinton Enjoy our popular series of brunch lectures. A 45 minute talk on a variety of topics followed by a full English Breakfast. Tickets £15.

9.30am - 11am. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/baddesleyclinton.

October 23

Hosted at the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, this bookmaking workshop is great fun for all the family. Create a simple handmade concertina book, illustrated in a Gothic style using printing and collage techniques. Open from 1-3pm. Pre-booking essential. £2.50 per person. Visit www.bmag.org.uk for full details.

Family Make and Take at Blakesley Hall Make a severed finger pencil. Suitable for 5’s and over. For more information on ticket prices and times visit www.bmag.org.uk/blakesley-hall.

October 23-28

Spooky Soho Soho’s spooky cellars are transformed into the Soho Dungeons for Halloween as we explore terrible tales of 18th Century crime and punishment. Free entry. Usual charges to historic house apply. Open from 12 noon to 4pm. Visit www.bmag.org.uk/soho-house for more information.

October 27

Taste of Torment A weekend of Halloween stories and activities – Stories for children for different ages groups. Visit if you Dare! Open from 12.00 to 4pm. Visit www.bmag.org.uk/aston-hall for more information.

October 21

Trafalgar Day at Soho House Celebrate Trafalgar Day at Soho House where you can discover the story of Nelson’s visit to the house in 1802 and learn all about the significance of Trafalgar Day. Open from 2.30-3.30pm. £2 entry, pre-booking essential.

Visit www.bmag.org.uk or call 0121 554 9122 to book.

October 27

Murder Mystery at Baddesley Clinton Look for clues and solve the mystery in the moated manor house and enjoy a three course dinner in the restaurant.

Starts 6.30pm. Tickets £45. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ baddesleyclinton.

October 27 – November 4

Family Fun Days – Halloween at Packwood House

Bookmaking bonanza!

October 23

Enjoy our ‘whodunnit’ trail with activ ities to take home. 11am - 3.30pm. £2 for activities (usual admission applies). For more informatio n visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/baddesley clinton.

Halloween story walk trail around the grounds with take home treats. 11am - 3.30 pm. £2 for activities (usual admission applies).

For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/packwood October 27 – November 4

Family Fun Days – Gunpowder and Ghosts at Coughton Court Step in the dark world of the Gunpowd er plotters and uncover Coughton’s links to the infamous Gunpowder Plot. 11am - 3.30pm. £2 for activities (usual admission applies). For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/coug htoncourt.

October 28

Poetic Piano at Coughton Court Local concert pianist and celebrated composer and poet Helena Cavam return to Coug hton an informal concert with poetic interludes . Starts 3.30pm. £10 includes tea and cake .

For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/coughton court.

October 26

Cauldrons, Cats & Cobwebs: Halloween Extravaganza!

Dress up in your scariest costumes and come along to a special evening of Halloween fun for all the family! Follow a spine tingling path through the atmospheric stores to see some of the scariest museum objects not usually on displ ay - who knows what, or who, you might enco unter along the way. Admission £1 per person.

Open from 6pm to 9pm.

Visit www.bmag.org.uk/Museum-co llectionscentre for more information.

October 27

Structures of splendour Join Coventry Cathedral and The Herbert Art Gallery as they celebrate the natio nal Big Draw event. Start your day at the cathedra l (which will be open for free) and use the arch itecture to create beautiful drawings. Then take your drawings across to The Herbert and use them to inspire your decoration of large structures on display. Free event. Cathedral open from 10am to 2pm, The Herbert open from 11am to 3pm.

Visit www.theherbert.org for more information.

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

www.primarytimes.net

October 26 - March 3

October 27 – November 4

Family Fun Days – Halloween ‘who – dunnit’ at Baddesley Clinton

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October 27 - November 4

Wightwick Manor Walking Festival

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OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

See how fast you can walk or take a gentle stroll around the grounds of Wightwick Manor.

There are a few inclines, but fantastic views at the end.

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk or call 01902 760100 for more information. Open from 11am to 4pm. Free event, usual admission applies.

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unusual presents. If you like a lot of choice, then this is the Fair for you! There are brilliant show offers, fabulous ideas and affordable presents for everyone.

The Organisers take all the hard work out of present-buying, bringing together a great mix of 325 stalls, brimming over with November 9-11 thousands of clever gifts for all ages and tastes. You’ll see all your favourites as well as over 100 new companies at this year’s bumper Fair. Open from 9.30am to 5pm. For more information on exhibitors and visiting the Fair, visit www.festivegiftfair.co.uk.

Have you joined the nation and Save money by booking in embraced the ever-growing trend advance – adult tickets are just for cake decorating? If so, make £8.50. Book by phone by calling sure you visit Cake International, The Ticket Factory on 0844 581 where you will find everything 0808/0809. Or Book online at you need for this irresistible www.theticketfactory.com craft. Spend three days in cake heaven with all the latest November 24 – December 2 ideas, supplies, competitions, demonstrations and workshops from industry experts. Over 100 exhibitions from across the globe Enjoy the mansion dressed for will be offering the very latest a traditional Christmas. Festive cake decorating and sugarcraft market stalls and Coach House supplies. Whether you are after cutters, moulds, stencils or gift shop, Christmas lunches, sugarpaste, this is a must-visit music and at the weekends, show for cake enthusiasts.

Father Christmas in his festive Open Friday 9 and Saturday 10 sitting room. Normal admission 9am-5.30pm and Sunday 11 applies. For more information November 9am-5.00pm. Tickets visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ £10 (available online) or £12 on coughtoncourt. the door.

Cake International The Sugarcraft, Cake Decorating & Baking Show

Winter Festival at Coughton Court

November 16 - February 24

Revealed Government Art Collection Exhibition

Birmingham Museums are the first venue for a tour of a major selection of works from the Government Art Collection. This is the first time that such a large grouping of works have been shown together. Open Monday - Thursday 10.00am - 5.00pm, Friday 10.30am - 5.00pm, Sat 10.00am - 5.00pm, Sunday 12.30pm - 5.00pm. Entrance FREE. Visit www.bmag.org.uk/ birmingham-museum for more information.

December 3 - December 7

Blakesley Hall Christmas Tours A chance to see Blakesley Hall decorated for Christmas and find out about Christmas customs from the past. Entrance £5 per person. Visit www.bmag. org.uk/blakesley-hall for more information.

December 8 and 9

Christmas Wassail at Coughton Court

Join our long established traditional Christmas Wassail, with stories and carols from Birmingham Crescent Theatre.

Mulled wine, a roaring fire and 25 November 22 mince pies included. 4.30pm 7.30pm. Admission: Adult £23, Child £10. Booking essential by calling 01789 400777 op The fabulous Festive Gift Fair is information visit returning to the NEC for four days 2. For more .org.uk/ ionaltrust www.nat Half from 22 – 25 November. coughtoncourt. the fun of Christmas is finding

The Festive Gift Fair

ndabout December 8

Christmas Celebrations at the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter

Costumed guided tours, carol singing by Enchant choir and festive refreshments in the tearoom. Buy those last minute presents in our lovely gift shop, or for a unique gift why not choose from our extensive selection of exclusive designer jewellery. Visit www.bmag.org.uk/ museum-of-the-jewellery-quarter for more information.

December 8, 9, 15 & 16

Victorian Christmas Festive Weekend Residents at Blists Hill Victorian Town will be busy preparing for Christmas this weekend. Come along and experience the l atmosphere of a bygone era and be treated to an array of traditiona celebrations from the 1800s; you can listen to brass bands, see Father Christmas’ reindeer and do some Christmas present shopping. Museum admission is £15.45 adults, £12.35 for 60 plus, £10.25 children 5-18 years in full time education and under 5s free; a family ticket (two adults and two children) at £46.50 is available for the festive weekends only. A visit to see Father Christmas in his Grotto is an additional £3.50 per child and includes a traditional gift.

Passport tickets are not valid for this event. Opens 10am - 4pm. For details call 01952 433 424 or visit www.ironbridge.org.uk

ces pla to visit The MAD Museum

The brand new MAD Museum in Stratford upon Avon is now open and looking forward to welcoming you! Enter a world full of fascinating sights and sounds at The Mechanical Art and Design (MAD) Museum where Kinetic Art, Automota and Steampunk mechanisms come to life before your very eyes. The only museum of its kind in England, The MAD Museum holds more than 100 mesmerising exhibits by respected and pioneering artists from all over the world. The machines range from dancing laser lights and clever robots to stunningly quirky clocks and roaring dinosaurs. Pascal Bettex’s two exhibiting pieces are loved by visitors as unlikely household objects take on new purposes while spinning, whirling and flashing to amaze you. Visit www.themadmuseum.co.uk for all the information.

The Follies at Hawkstone Park The Follies is a fantasyland of ancient cliffs, crags, caves,

woods and monuments. Built more than 200 years ago, the magical landscape fell into neglect and was lovingly restored in 1993. Try your hand at archery, clay pigeon shooting and much more. Visit www.principal-hayley. com/hawkstonepark for details of events. School trips can also be arranged: call 01948 841700 for more information.

Crash! Bang!

Wallop!

Crash! Bang! Wallop! has everything you and the little ones needs for a good, fun day out. The indoor adventure wonderland where children can spend hours firing cannons, sliding down a double helix tunnel slide, hiding in ball pits and even getting exercise in the sports area. Check out www. crashbangwallop.bix for all the details.

Registered charity:1093411

WEAR A HAT DAY Thursday 28 th March

2013

Oak House Museum The historical Oak House Museum in West Bromwich dates back to between 1590 and 1630 (it’s so old that nobody really knows how old it is!) and it’s free to visit. Open Tuesday and Wednesday from 1-4pm during October and November.

Visit www.sandwell.gov.uk for more information.

REGISTER NOW | Tel: 01296 733011

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DCT Santa 10 A3 Poster_Spread 8pp 29/05/2012 11:12 Page 1

also ava ilable for Kids Holiday Clubs!

Busy parent needing help?

Are your weekends dominated by chores?

Can you never find the time to iron and clean?

Come and join Aladdin and his mother, Widow Twankey in their secret underground oriental town of Bilston.

Help them from the Evil Queen who wants their magic lamp in order to banish Father Christmas. Can you think of a magic wish to help them?

Diamond Home Support offers cleaning, ironing and other duties by vetted and fully insured workers at affordable rates, from £9.00 per hour Whether you are elderly, work long hours, or have a busy family ... we can provide the support you need and give you back the time in your life!

You then follow the secret tunnel to Santa’s magical workshop and meet “Tiny, the Fairy” who is Santa’s helper and will help Santa to hand out his presents.

Contact us on 07402 255 095 or email Dudley@diamondhomesupport.com or visit our website www.Diamondhomesupport.com

For just £9.99 per person, you are treated to a journey by boat through an underground winter wonderland. Each child gets to meet Father Christmas in his magical workshop and receives a gift.

Each adult receives a hot drink and mince pie.

Calling all Mums

Don’t want to go back to work but still need an income?

Are childcare fees making it not worth going out to work?

Cost £9.99 per person (Tickets Non Transferrable or Refundable) to include a gift for every child and a hot drink and mince pie for adults.

Would you like flexible working hours to fit around your family life?

Boats depart every half hour: 9th, 15th, 16th, 22nd and 23rd of December from 10am to 5pm (Access is from Birmingham New Road -not The Black Country Museum) Admin fee of £2 per booking for credit/debit card bookings

Tickets are available from our booking office hotline

01384 236275

or via our website www.dudleycanaltrust.org.uk

Travel by boat to see the Trust Drama Group perform a pantomime in Singing Cavern

If you are honest, ethical and self-motivated then find out more

For further information contact

Natalie Ford

01902 741811

full training and support given

Christmas 2012 with The REP @ The Crescent Theatre

28 Nov to 19 Jan

By Kenneth Grahame, adapted for the stage by Alan Bennett, additional lyrics and music by Jeremy Sams

Tickets from £9 with Family Tickets available The REP is a registered charity No. 223660

Box Office: 0121 236 4455 Online: birmingham-rep.co.uk

21 November – 9 December AMAZING FAMILY DEAL! Up to two under-16s attend for half price with every full-price adult ticket

HHHHH www.brb.org.uk/Cinderella Design: Coltas.co; photos: Bill Cooper and Paul Coltas Birmingham Royal Ballet is a registered charity no. 1061012

DAILY EXPRESS

0844 338 5000

www.birminghamhippodrome.com 5% transaction fee applies; calls cost from 5p per minute.

s e p i c e r HALLOWEEN

Sinister Bagel Sssssnake

This is a fun way of serving bagels, and you can make the snake as long as you want depending on how many bagels you use!

sh treat li u o h g a p Cooking u ecipes r y t s a t e s e with th

Ingredients 2 (or as many as you can eat!) bagels Egg salad topping: 2 or 3 large eggs 3 tbsp mayonnaise

Method Put the eggs in a saucepan of cold water and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 7-8 minutes so the yolk becomes solid.

Place the eggs in a bowl under cold running water until they are completely cool. With an adults’ help, peel the shell from the eggs.

Slice the bagels in half and then cut in half down the centre to form a semi circle. Cut out the head of the snake from one of the pieces of bagel and the tail from another. Mix the ingredients for the tuna salad topping and the

Pumpkin and Orange Broth

If you don’t wish to carve a pumpkin, then make some soup instead! Pretend you’re a witch stirring your cauldron. Double, double, toil and trouble..

www.primarytimes.net 16

Ingredients: 3tbsp olive oil 1 onion (peeled and finely chopped) 500g/1lb pumpkin (peeled, deseeded and chopped into cubes) 400g/14oz sweet potatoes (peeled and chopped into cubes) zest and juice of two oranges 2 cloves of garlic (peeled and sliced) 1tsp ground coriander 900ml/1½ pints vegetable stock salt and freshly ground pepper

Add the chopped pumpkin and sweet potatoes, garlic, coriander, orange zest and juice Continue cooking for a few more minutes, adding a little more oil if required Add the vegetable stock and season with salt and pepper Bring to the boil, cover and simmer for about 30 minutes until the pumpkin and sweet potatoes are tender Let the soup cool slightly before blending in a food processor or with a hand blender. Yum!

Method:

Heat the oil in a large pan. Add the onion and cook over a low heat until softened

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

1 tbsp snipped fresh chives 3 tbsp salad cress salt and pepper Tuna salad topping: 1 x 200g tin of tuna 2 tbsp ketchup 2 tbsp crème fraiche or Greek yoghurt 2 spring onions, finely sliced Decoration: cherry tomatoes, halved chives, chopped 1 stuffed olive, sliced strip of sweet pepper

ingredients for the egg salad topping. Spread half the bagels with the tuna topping and the other half with the egg.

Decorate the tuna topping with the halved cherry tomatoes and the egg topping with strips of chives arranged in a crisscross pattern. Arrange the bagels to form the body of a snake (like ours in the picture), then attach the head to the snake’s body and arrange two slices of stuffed olive to form the eyes and cut out a forked tongue shape from the strip of sweet pepper.

Freaky Egg Heads

sandwiches.

A fun way to prepare egg py faces! cree ng igni des Get creative tion: ora Dec nts: Ingredie grated carrot 7 large eggs sweet pepper 3 ½ tbsp. olives mayonnaise salami per pep salt and gherkin 4 slices of bread chives butter or basil margarine for peas ing spread

Method:

of cold water Put the eggs in a saucepan uce the heat Red boil. the to g brin and so the yolk and simmer for 7-8 minutes eggs in a bowl becomes solid. Place the until they are under cold running water adults’ help, peel completely cool. With an the shell from the eggs. s with an egg Ask an adult to slice 2 egg s for the slice 8 e asid Set . slicer or knife pieces in a bowl, eyes. Place the remaining h with a fork add the unsliced eggs, mas and add the mayonnaise. with the butter Spread the slices of bread the egg with er cov and ne or margari on the bread mayonnaise. Make faces ice. We went for using toppings of your cho olives, salami, grated carrot, sweet pepper, peas, but you and il bas es, chiv , rkin ghe Get creative! can use whatever you like!

Recipes supplied by www.eggrecipes.co.uk

Free

Assessment

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to unlock your child’s potential, building their confidence and independent study skills. Take advantage of our Free Assessment and see how Kumon can benefit your child.

To unlock your child’s potential, contact your local Instructor for a Free Assessment.

Bearwood 0121 558 9338

Four Oaks 0121 240 1101

Stourbridge 01384 443629

Blakenhall 01902 682 451

Walsall Daisy Bank 0121 353 9539

Bournville 0121 246 4356

Great Barr 0121 378 2130 Handsworth Wood 0121 240 1596

Coventry East 02476 413 374

King’s Heath 0121 624 1233

Erdington 0121 730 2597

Shirley 0121 366 8206

Wolverhampton West 01543 262 054 Yardley Wood 0121 777 4327

0800 854 714 kumon.co.uk Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

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E D G B A S TO N

16 17 18 NOV

HIGH SCHOOL for GIRLS

The Footman James

An independent school for girls aged 2½-18 years Including

MOTORBIKE SHOW

The NEC, Birmingham Call or book online

0871 230 1088

Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras

Quote Code: PT

Cars for Sale | Live Stage | Auction | Restoration Theatre | Autojumble | 100s of Trade Stands | Dream Rides

Over 1500 Amazing Classic Cars For all show information:

Now taking registrations for Year 3 scholarships contact Mrs Hartley, Head of Preparatory School, on 0121 454 2401 for details

www.necclassicmotorshow.com

Tickets also allow FREE entry into The Footman James Classic Motorbike Show, with 100s of fantastic classic bikes, special guests and live bike action!

Sponsored by

Official Partner

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In Association with

7+,11+ and 16+ Scholarships Means tested bursaries Tel . 0 1 2 1 4 5 4 5 8 3 1 w w w. e dg b a s ton h ig h . c o .u k

All bookings are subject to a single transaction fee. All information correct at time of publishing.

See website for all information. Tickets include showguide to the value of £7.50

C O V E N T R Y

Register now for September 2013 entry to the Preparatory and Senior Schools

Cha r it y no : 5 0 4 0 1 1

T R A N S P O R T

M U S E U M

2 6 O ct o b e r 22001123 t o 3 M a rc h rs e t o o c s h is it r B f A n ex h ibitio n o 0 6 d n a s 0 5 19 e f ro m t h

s.

7PLUS SPECIAL EVENTS: 27 Oct to 4 Nov October Half Term Activities Scooter-themed trails and craft activities for kids available throughout the holidays.

17 & 18 Nov Christmas Craft Fair Get your Christmas shopping started early at this lovely event.

17 Nov Blitz Family Day Kids can experience life during World War II, with a range of activities at Coventry Transport Museum, Coventry Cathedral & The Herbert.

18 Nov Campers Christmas – Vans vs Vespas A festive light display with a difference, as camper vans and scooters get blinged up for Christmas.

2 Dec Christmas Family Day Get into the festive spirit with loads of Christmas family fun.

Tel: 024 7623 4270

www.transport-museum.com

r m k w o boo for must-haves t s te la e th f Our pick o elf and e-readers your booksh

gon The Dreadful Dra (7-10) Kaye Umansky, Bloomsbury, £5.99 Ronald the Magnificent is the youngest wizard in the Wizards’ Club. The trouble is, he is not a very good wizard and all the others tease him terribly. They don’t even let him have his own chair. What Ronald needs is a pet so at least somebody is on his side.

But pets are not allowed, so Ronald has to magic his pet up in secret. And when he does get his pet, it is not as easily controlled as Ronald would have liked.

This is a very funny book featuring wizards, firebreathing, some misplaced magic and a lot of sausages! Perfect!

The World’s Fastest, Spookiest, Smelliest, Strongest Book (8+) Jan Payne, Buster Books, £7.99 From the highest peaks, the highest-flying aircraft, the fastest man, the biggest country to the most venomous snake, this book has it all. There’s no end to the wonderful and fascinating facts you can learn about the world, perfect for impressing your friends and expanding your horizons. In fact you can play a game with this book: pick a page, any page and you will be assured to land on a new and fun fact every single time.

Come to School Too, Blue Kangaroo (6+) Emma Chichester Clark, HarperCollins, £10.99 That first day at school... is there anything quite like it?

When Lily starts at a new school she asks her loveable Blue Kangaroo to come too. Lily thinks that Blue Kangaroo is worried about going too but deep down he can’t wait to explore new things, and to get involved with all the things that children get to explore at school.

And that’s just the beginning, we wouldn’t spoil the rest of it! This is the eighth title in this hugely popular series, so there’s lots to explore if you enjoy this book.

Squeezy (7+) Easy Peasy Lemon

Steve Martin, Buster Books, £7.99

We wan your favou t to hear about ri at Primary te books! Write to us Times, Pub lishing Ink, Fifth Floor, Wh New Stree ite House, 111 t, Birmingh am, B2 4EU or email us at Jennifer@p u and tell us a blishingink.co.uk b books and out your favourite why you lov e You might e ven see you them. r name here in the next issue!

the Agatha Parrot and Zombie Bird (7+) Kjartan Poskitt, Egmont, £5.99 Yes you read that right: this book features a zombie bird.

What is that you ask? Well that would be telling. All that we know is that people who read it couldn’t put it down and found it a real laugh out loud experience, featuring magic, mayhem, invisibility and a crazy sense of fun, aimed at 7 or 8 year olds. As well as anyone above!

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

www. www.primarytimes.net

Do you have trouble retaining important morsels of information about Maths, Science, Language, Art and so on? Well this brilliant book is for you. In fact it’s not just a book, it’s a brain booster, equipped with something called a ‘Memory Gym’ containing simple and fun techniques to increase memory power. Plus it’s full of great ilustrations throughout. Please turn to our Competitions page to read how you may win a snazzy hardback copy!

19

Could you make the TIME TO CARE? • Do you have at least one spare bedroom?

• Do you have the time to care for a child or sibling group?

• Are you willing to undertake training to become an Adopter or Foster Carer?

Say ‘yes’ to the questions above and you could easily consider Fostering as a new career …

Birmingham City Council has about 2000 children in its care at any given time and is looking for suitable individuals and families who might be able to provide caring and stable environments for them to live in on a short or long term basis.

One can only begin to imagine how devastating, traumatic and frightening life could become for a child who is removed from their parents, siblings, relatives or others close to them. Being placed in an environment where the household’s values are the same, food is similar and the language spoken

is familiar, can enable them to function and assist them when dealing with separation.

You, or someone you know, could ensure that a child / sisters and brothers could provide direction, peace and the ability to function in a loving, safe and stable environment.

Don’t count yourself out without talking to us first!

Contact us at the recruitment Centre on 0121 303 7575 for a chat or visit www.birmingham.gov.uk/ fostering for further information.

nline 10% o t! n discou www.primarytimes.net

Join us for scientific fun at Thinktank this half term!

• Brand new Science Garden • ‘Inside DNA’ Exhibition • Daily Big Bang Show • BBC Prehistoric Autopsy - Uncovered

Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham B4 7XG 20

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum

T: 0121 202 2222 www.thinktank.ac

/thinktank museum

Bonfire Night the stars are bright – keep t h ig n e th n o fe a s y il m your fa w minutes to For a great Bonfire Night, take a fe read our helpful guide!

We all know that fireworks can be great fun if handled responsibly, however we would encourage people to go to an organised event if possible rather than having fireworks in their own garden. If you do intend to have fireworks at home, do follow the safety code: • Keep fireworks in a closed metal box and take them out one at a time • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on each firework. Read the instructions by torch light and not a naked flame and always buy fireworks from a reputable source • Light fireworks at arm’s length using a safety firework lighter or fuse wick • Stand back after lighting • NEVER go back to a firework once lit, it may go off in your face • Keep a bucket of water handy • Collect used fireworks with care, douse with water and bury them or place in a metal container • Keep children under control • Keep pets indoors • Take care with sparklers – young children should not handle these • NEVER throw fireworks • NEVER keep them in your pocket

If you must light a bonfire, follow these safety tips: • Site the bonfire well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs and well away from your fireworks • Before lighting, make sure there are no animals hiding inside • Be careful when building the bonfire, so it does not collapse once lit • Don’t burn foam filled furniture, aerosols or tins of paint or bottles • Never use flammable liquids – paraffin or petrol – to light the fire • Keep everyone, especially children, away from the fire • In case of emergency, keep buckets of water, a garden hose of a fire extinguisher ready • When the party is over, pour water on the embers before leaving

If a fire gets out of control, dial 999 and call out the fire and rescue service.

For further bonfire and firework safety tips visit your local fire service websites.

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

21

There’s a lot to do in Dudley if you’re looking for a fun family day out both inside and out.

Sometimes it can be hard to choose what you want to do or to find something that none of the family have done together before. That’s why heading down to Bowlplex Dudley is a great idea as it is something for all the family!

Well fear no more! Bowlplex is the ideal place to bring the kids during the holidays, not only does our awesome ten-pin bowling cater to kids (and adults) of all ages, we also have lots of other things on site that will entertain them for hours no matter what their age.

Bowlplex Dudley Birthdays Stuck for that ingenious birthday party idea? Want something fun, different and action-packed for yours or your child’s birthday? Help is at hand as Bowlplex Dudley can offer just that, helping your birthday party be the best yet.

If you have a birthday party with us you get all the following: • Unlimited tenpin bowling throughout • Platter meal to share • Unlimited Robinsons sugar free squash • Prizes, games and giveaways from a live entertainer • Extra special gift for the Birthday boy or girl

We’ve just made The Great Indoors even greater!

Our brand new Activity Zone will soon be open at Bowlplex Dudley.

Created in association with iKidz, this new addition to Bowlplex is the perfect family activity club where children of all ages can play, learn and relax to their heart’s content!

Families get to enjoy this unique experience where emotions and physical activity run high to bring everyone together in fun, social surroundings.

For the grown ups we are proud to serve Costa Coffee so you can sit back whilst the children have all the fun!

Join us for the opening events on the 27th and 28th October 2012 where we’re hosting a whole weekend of family fun and entertainment not to be missed! There’ll be face painters, competitions, games, prizes, and more!

Price List

Child under 1 year: FREE! Opening Times Child under 3 years: £5 Monday to Friday: 9.30am until 7pm Child over 3 years: £6 Saturday & Sunday: 9am until 8pm Adult with child under 1 year: £1.50 Bowlplex, Castlegate Way, Page 1 Dudley DY1 4TA 01384 213413 Adult with paying child: FREE!

BOWLPLEX Primary Time OCTOBER 2012:Layout 1

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An individual approach to education

St George’s School

Edgbaston

St George’s School, Edgbaston, understands the importance of an excellent education in the life and development of children. Our students are treated as individuals, allowing each to maximise their own potential.

Fully co-educational independent day school - a caring and friendly community for children from 4 months to18 years.

Free Assessments for Grammar School 11+ Examination July 2013

www.primarytimes.net

Small classes with a creative and constructive learning ethos Outstanding support for children with dyslexia 11+ tuition and excellent exam results Extra-curricular and enrichment activities

NEW SCHOOL NURSERY NOW OPEN

REGISTER NOW FOR YEAR 7 2013 ENTRY Tel: 0121 625 0398 31, Calthorpe Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 1RX www.sgse.co.uk Email: admissions@sgse.co.uk

22

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

All children in Year 4 and Year 5 should apply

0121 709 1200 www.advantage11plus.com email: info@advantage11plus.com

s t e porner c

Sam, from Kidderminster

Gail, from West Bromwich

To keep a pet pig you require a special type of licence from The Rural Payments Agency

Runner ducks can’t fly

Maggie, from Coventry

Dave, from Bewdley Chinchillas take baths in a very fine sand

In total there is said to be around 400 million dogs in the world

Guinea Pigs should never be kept alone, they need a companion

WE WANT TO HEAR U FROM YO

Remember, we want to hear about your pets and the wildlife you get in your garden! If you have any questions about your pets, advice on what you should be feeding them, how often you should be walking them or letting them outside, or if you just want to send in a picture of your pet for us to see, we want to hear from you. Furry, fluffy, scaly or big enough to ride, we love all pets! Send us a picture of your pets with a few sentences about

Jake, from Birmingham

English Lop Eared Rabbits are a giant breed

them, what they like to do, what they eat and why you love them. Email us at jennifer@publishingink.co.uk or write to Pets Corner, Primary Times, Publishing Ink, Fifth Floor, White House, 111 New Street, Birmingham, B2 4EU. Please note that we are unable to return photographs sent by post. If you require your photograph back, please enclose a stamped addressed envelope.

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

www.primarytimes.net

Kerry, from Solihull

23

SPECIAL OFFER ON TERM TIME PLAY

JUST £1 A CHILD BEFORE 2PM! MONDAY TO FRIDAY

ALSO SPECIAL OFFERS ON KIDS BIRTHDAY PARTIES AND EXCLUSIVE HIRE PARTIES!

CALL NOW:

SCALLYWAGS THE FORT SHOPPING PARK 0121 382 4405 SCALLYWAGS MERRY HILL CENTRE 01384 74654 SCALLYWAGS BRIERLEY HILL 01384 77004

www.scallywagsindoorplay.com Follow us on Twitter @scallywags

5 Stars for food hygiene and safety/8 years experience of hosting parties/ROSPA inspected and PPA members

Would you like to spend more time at home with your children but also have the option of a full time income?

We have helped lots of mums develop a home based business, giving them the freedom to choose when they work and how much they earn. No previous experience needed - full training & support given.

If you’d like to find out more, please call Nicola on 07920057807 or email nicswaby@msn.com

Award winning games for y ng learners ou Over 5000 schools are using busythings.co.uk.

Let your child learn while they play at home too!

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primary times parents A5 ad.indd 1

10/10/2012 17:20:24

s o t p i e i t o c m WIN A FAMILY DAY PASS TO A NATIONAL TRUST PLACE

IN THE MIDLANDS

There’s so much for you to see, do and discover at a National Trust place near you in the Midlands, you simply won’t know where to start. There are all kinds of fantastic walks and trails for you to explore as well as plenty of fun family crafts and activities like spooky Halloween pumpkin trails, animal adventures such as a Deer Park Safari and much more.

And there’s also loads for you to try from the National Trust’s list of ‘50 Things To Do Before You’re 11 ¾’. So, for your chance to win a family pass to your favourite National Trust place in the Midlands, simply answer this question: On what date is Halloween?

Closing date: Friday, 30 November 2012.

Find half-term fun near you at nationaltrust.org.uk/midlandspumpkin

WIN FAMILY TICKETS TO JACK AND THE

BEANSTALK

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is the place to be this Christmas as they pull back the curtains on ‘Jack And The Beanstalk’, starring Sherrie Hewson from Loose Women, which promises to be full of fun and excitement!

The Grand has very kindly given Primary Times some sets of family tickets (four tickets per family), so now is your chance to take part!

Sherrie Hewson will be joined on stage by Keith Harris and the loveable Orville and Cuddles who will play Simple Simon, Jack’s brother. Also onstage is former Coronation Street star Ken Morley as King Crumble, Niki Evans in the role of Fairy Fortune and Nigel Ellacott as Dame Trott. They have all been enlisted to help Jack save the Princess Apricot and defeat the evil giant!

To enter the competition please answer the following question Keith Harris has another creature besides Orville with him in this years Jack and the Beanstalk... who is it?

Closing date: Friday, 30 November 2012.

Jack And The Beanstalk is at the Grand Theatre Wolverhampton from 8 December to 20 January 2013. To book tickets please call the Box Office on 01902 42 92 12 or visit our website at www.grandtheatre.co.uk To enter all our competitions, go to www.primarytimes.net/competitions or send your entry on a postcard with the name of the competition you wish to enter, your name, address and telephone number to Primary Times, Publishing Ink, Fifth Floor, White House, 111 New Street, Birmingham, B2 4EU by the closing date stated. You can go straight to our competitions page on our website by scanning this code with your smart phone. Good luck!

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

25

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO JAMES AND THE

GIANT PEACH

The Birmingham Stage Company is proud to present a brand new production of JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH by Roald Dahl adapted by David Wood.

The classic story of James, a lonely young boy who lives with Aunt Sponge and Aunt Spiker, the most revolting Aunts in England. They make him work and slave and never let him play with other children. Then one day he meets a mystical old man who gives him a bag that contains the strongest magic the world has ever known. When James accidentally spills the bag near an old peach tree, the most incredible things start to happen – and James’s adventure has just begun!

This fantastic production is brought to you by Birmingham Stage Company following its acclaimed productions of GEORGE’S MARVELLOUS MEDICINE, HORRIBLE HISTORIES and THE JUNGLE BOOK. If you’re looking for fruitfilled fun and wizzpopping wonders, then don’t miss James and his Giant Peach!

The Birmingham Stage Company has produced more productions of Roald Dahl than any other company in the world – so don’t miss this thrilling adventure coming this Christmas.

To win one of two family tickets to see James and the Giant Peach just answer the following question Who wrote James and the Giant Peach?

Closing date: Friday, 30 November 2012.

James and the Giant Peach runs from the 14th November 2012 - 2nd February 2013 at the Old Rep Theatre Does Maths leave you in a muddle? Struggle with Spelling? Do you find History www.oldreptheatre.org.uk horrible? ‘Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy’ is the mind-expanding book for you. Full of fun

WIN A COPY OF EASY

PEASY LEMON SQUEEZY

illustrations and juicy bite-sized facts, this book will not only help you learn but help keep WHAT you learn locked safely away. After dipping in and out of the many facts and subjects at hand, your grasp of general knowledge - including subjects such as geography, art, music and language - will feel just that little bit more sharp. The fun doesn’t stop there either, as the creators of the book have provided you with bonuses such as the marvellous ‘Memory Gym’ which will arm you with new tips and tricks to make those all-important facts stick for when you need them! In short this is a book you will dip in and out of time and time again as you progress in school, and best of all we have some beautiful hardback copies to give away to some lucky readers!

Just answer the following question What is the shape of the fruit on the cover?

Closing date: Friday, 30 November 2012.

WIN TICKETS TO The Festive Gift Fair is returning to the NEC for four days from 22 – 25 November.

Half the fun of Christmas is finding unusual presents for your family and friends. If you find you are sometimes limited then this is the event for you.There are brilliant show offers, fabulous ideas and affordable presents for everyone.

There will be a wide mix of 325 stalls, brimming over with thousands of varied gifts for all ages and tastes.

You’ll see familiar favourites as well as over one hundred new companies, along with food, drink and live music For your chance to win a set of four tickets, simply answer this question Where is the Festive Gift Fair taking place?

Closing date: Friday, 16 November 2012.

To enter all our competitions, go to www.primarytimes.net/competitions or send your entry on a postcard with the name of the competition you wish to enter, your name, address and telephone number to Primary Times, Publishing Ink, Fifth Floor, White House, 111 New Street, Birmingham, B2 4EU by the closing date stated. You can go straight to our competitions page on our website by scanning this code with your smart phone. Good luck!

26

OCTOBER HALF TERM 2012 ISSUE

www.primarytimes.net

THE FESTIVE GIFT FAIR!

WHAT’S ON AT

WOLVERHAMPTON ART GALLERIES

THE BIG DRAW: 2012 IN LINES Mo 29 – Fr 2 Nov 11am – 3pm Wolverhampton Art Gallery Tu 30 Oct, 1pm – 3pm

Bantock House and Museum The Big Draw is the world’s biggest celebration of drawing. It has grown into a month-long festival throughout October all over the UK. Every year more people across the world join Big Draw events and engage in creative activities. Lots of fun and fantastic drawing activities for the half term week.

Our theme for this year is ‘2012 in Lines’, see how you can describe this year’s exciting events through drawing. FREE, Drop in Tuesday 30 Oct 11.15am – 12noon ONCE UPON A TIME… Storytelling followed by craft activities.

Bantock house and Museum Free admission, drop in Tuesday 30 Oct 10.30am – 12noon & 1.30pm – 3pm TRANSFORM YOUR OLD TOYS Bring along an old toy to transform into something new. Booking required, suitable for 5-12 years, children must be supervised.

Bilston Craft Gallery, £2 per child

LITTLE ART CLUB

WOLVERHAMPTON ART GALLERY Let little imaginations run wild with weekly art activities. £2 per session. Suitable for ages 7 and under.

OCTOBER - INSPIRED BY THE MARK SPEIGHT PROJECT Saturday 27 October 2012, 10.30am - 11.30am

NOVEMBER – INSPIRED BY POP ART

Saturday 3 November 2012, 10.30am - 11.30am

ART CLUB

WOLVERHAMPTON ART GALLERY

Creative activities suitable for 8-14 years, inspired by the Mark Speight project, with the opportunity to gain arts award accreditation. Over 8’s can be unaccompanied once contact details / medical info and permission slips have been provided. £2 per session. Suitable for 8 – 14 years.

OCTOBER – INSPIRED BY THE MARK SPEIGHT PROJECT Saturday 27 October 2012, 12pm – 1pm

NOVEMBER – INSPIRED BY POP ART Saturday 3 November 2012, 12pm – 1pm

Contact Information Bantock House Museum

T: 01902 552195 www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk/bantock

Bilston Craft Gallery

T: 01902 429212 www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk/bilston

Wolverhampton Art Gallery

T: 01902 552055 www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk/wolves

Wednesday 31 Oct 2pm – 5pm HALLOWEEN FUN DAY Join us for an afternoon of Halloween fun and free craft activities. Meet snakes, bugs and frogs with Animal Mania! Enjoy face-painting (50p a go), the exhibition trail and prize for the best Halloween costume. For our very youngest visitors Craftplay will be open from 2 – 4 pm.

Bilston Craft Gallery, FREE Thursday 1 Nov 10.30am - 12noon & 1pm - 2.30pm A SPARKLING DISPLAY Children’s workshop to create dynamic pictures using a mix of materials.

Bantock House and Museum Booking essential, £2 per child (5 -14) Thursday 1 Nov 10am – 12noon & 1.30pm – 3.30pm SCARY SOCK MONSTER PUPPETS Create a scary sock monster puppet for Halloween. Drop in workshop, suitable for 5-12 years, children must be supervised.

Bilston Craft Gallery, £2 per child Saturday 3 Nov 11am – 4pm CRAFT FAIR Sale of work by local makers including pottery, fabrics and jewellery.

Bantock House Museum, FREE, Drop in

Fri 21 S

Fri 7 Sep

Book online www.solihullartscomplex.co.uk

SPOOKS, GHOULS & TREATS AT KENILWORTH CASTLE & ELIZABETHAN GARDEN

HALLOWEEN GHOST TOURS 26th, 27th & 31st October, 7pm, 8pm & 9pm (over 16s only) ( Tours last approximately 45 minutes and a mug of soup is included.

Please wear comfortable footwear and dress warmly).

HALLOWEEN FAMILY FUN TRAIL 20th October – 4th November, 10am – 5pm

KENILWORTH, WARWICKSHIRE

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L IA NT SE RS, S E OU 3 8 N G T 11 KI OST 333 O 0 H O G 087 E-B R PR FO ALL C 20/09/2012 11:48

Image: Nelson Takahiro Kishi

Lyngo Theatre, mac birmingham & The Lowry present:

‘Lyngo Theatre knows the score when it comes to producing theatre for the very young’ The Stage

Tue 13 Nov – Sun 2 Dec

Various Times (11am, 2pm & 5.30pm)

Sales & Information 0121 446 3232 www.macarts.co.uk Cannon Hill Park, Birmimgham, B12 9QH

mac at fifty

to be a

part of our

PARTY DIRECTORY

THE

PARTY

Celebrate beneath the waves!

Birthdays at

DIRECTORY SPONSORED BY

CALL US ON 0121

Quote ‘Primary Times’ for an extra 10% off!

631 6101!

Booking number 0870 222 6932 www.sealife.co.uk

Wildlife Adventurer Put a smile on the children’s faces with a huge range of interesting and funny face paints.

We are perfect for parties, fun days, summer events, where the whole family can come and have their face decorated.

Animal Displays & Presentations

Providing education through animals for...

Schools Parties Fetes Corporate Events and much more

Please contact me on 01214265604 / 07568093673 Tel: 07597 685197

www.maskofartbeauticians.co.uk

info@wildlifeadventurer.co.uk www.wildlifeadventurer.co.uk

WHEN YOU BOOK 10 OR MORE

(A SAVING OF £13.00) Our party package includes: • Ice skating including skate hire • Choice of party meal • Your “We are a lot own party host & party room closer than you think…

• Party invitations • Gift for just 5 minutes away from the birthday child & free junction 5 or 6 of the M42 skating voucher • Voucher and CAR PARKING IS for every party guest FREE” Offer expires 31/11/2012 For further information & to book your birthday party, please call the box office on 0121 742 5561 Blue Ice Solihull Rink, Blue Ice Plaza, Hobs Moat Road, Solihull B92 8JN www.solihullicerink.co.uk

the clown

“THE CLOWN WITH A DIFFERENCE” AT THE PARTY I TURN FROM A MAN INTO A CLOWN IN FRONT OF THEIR EYES

MAGIC, BALLOONS & GAMES

7862 TEL: 0121 749868 356 MOB: 07711 www.conktheclown.co.uk

CRB CHECKED

SPECIAL OFFER ON TERM TIME PLAY

ace to be” “The coolest pl

FREE BIRTHDAY CHILD

O K N C

also ava ilable for Kids Holiday Clubs!

JUST £1 A CHILD BEFORE 2PM! MONDAY TO FRIDAY

ALSO SPECIAL OFFERS ON KIDS BIRTHDAY PARTIES AND EXCLUSIVE HIRE PARTIES!

CALL NOW:

SCALLYWAGS THE FORT SHOPPING PARK 0121 382 4405 SCALLYWAGS MERRY HILL CENTRE 01384 74654 SCALLYWAGS BRIERLEY HILL 01384 77004

www.scallywagsindoorplay.com Follow us on Twitter @scallywags

5 Stars for food hygiene and safety/8 years experience of hosting parties/ROSPA inspected and PPA members

www.dudleyzoo.org.uk 01384 215313 www.dudleyzoo.org.uk 01384 215313

Feed Your Potential Want a party with a difference?

Want to be a model?

Book your two hour party today Each guest will: • have their make-up done and hair styled • model in a professional photoshoot • receive an A4 print to take home!

Party games also included

Call Jeanne or Tiffany on 07593

991960 or visit

www.wannabeworkshops.com to find out more information

Great Theatre at the Grand!

THURS 22 - SAT 24 NOV

TUES 20 - WED 21 NOV

MON 26 NOV - SAT 1 DEC

SADLER’S WELLS PRESENTS

Ballet Girls & Hip Hop Boys!

FRI 22 FEB

TUES 12 - SAT 16 FEB

TUES 19 - SAT 30 MARCH

‘BRILLIANT! IT EXPLODES LIKE GLITTERING FIREWORKS’ BILL KENWRIGHT

BY ARRANGEMENT WITH THE REALLY USEFUL GROUP PRESENTS

LYRICS BY

TIM RICE

MUSIC BY

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER

SPOT © Eric Hill / SalSPOT lTd, 2012 licEnSEd by SalSPOT lTd.

www.funwiTHSPOT.cOm

Follow us on

@WolvesGrand

Like us on Facebook: Wolverhampton Grand

Box Office 01902

42 92 12

BOOK ONLINE AT www.grandtheatre.co.uk