Primary Times in Hereford & Worcester - Back to School 2021

30,431 COPIES FOR FAMILIES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

Hereford & Worcester

www.primarytimes.co.uk

Packing a Healthy Lunch

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Healthy food and drink ideas ..........................................................................................

In Hereford & Worcester

Lower House, Whyle Lane, Pudleston, Nr Leominster Herefordshire, HR6 0RQ Tel: 01905 723011 Publishing Editor: Dawn Pardoe - 01905 727909 Design and Production: Paul Blyth Sales & PR : Rachel Seabright - 01905 727900 • rachel@pw-media.co.uk Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through Infant and Junior Schools throughout Hereford & Worcester. It is also available by subscription at £50 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 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. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools for their assistance in distributing the magazine and for their contributions to its contents. We would also like to thank all the advertisers who have supported this publication and therefore made it possible. Please support their endeavours when and where you can. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Primary Times or the relevant contributor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2,672,883 copies per issue throughout the counties of: Avon, Bedfordshire & Luton, Berkshire, Birmingham & Black Country, Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes, Cambridgeshire, Cardiff & The Vale, South West Wales, Newport & Monmouthshire, Cheshire & The Wirral, Cornwall, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Devon, Dorset, Edinburgh & The Lothians, Fife, Tayside & Central Scotland, Glasgow & West of Scotland, Essex (North & Mid, South & West), Gloucestershire, Greater Manchester, Hampshire, Hereford & Worcester, Hertfordshire, Ireland (Dublin, Leinster, South and West), Kent (East, North & West), Lancashire, Leicestershire & Rutland, Lincolnshire, London (East, North, South East, South West, South, West), Merseyside, Newcastle, Gateshead and Northumberland, Newport & Monmouthshire, Norfolk, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Plymouth, Somerset, Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent, Sunderland & Durham, Surrey, Sussex (East & West), Tees Valley, Warwickshire and Solihull, Wiltshire, Yorkshire (North & East, South and West). For further details contact The Primary Times Team on 01905 723011

Roundabout

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What’s on ..........................................................................................

Confidence in Cooking

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With Annabel Karmel ..........................................................................................

School Open Day Special

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Choosing a Secondary School ..........................................................................................

Theatre 20 Who’s treading the boards?

This magazine is audited by BPA, 30,431 copies, 2019.

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For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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Primary Times Back to School 2021

Wyeside Day Nursery & Out of School Care Ltd

“Where children enjoy their learning adventure” Tel: 01432 358070 26 Eign Road, Hereford, HR1 2RY

www.wyesidedaynursery.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN YOUR AREA? From Theatre shows and attractions to classes and family days out you’ll find even more at: www.primarytimes.co.uk

Open 7.45am to 5.15pm

For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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Until 24th October VIRTUAL GREAT BRITISH DOG WALK The Great British Dog Walk is back! If you can’t attend one of our GBDW’s that are happening across the country, then try a the virtual Great British Dog Walk. In essence, here’s how the Virtual Great British Dog Walk works: Choose a walking route and distance that suits you - pretty country lanes, autumnal woodland, wide open spaces, whatever you like. Pick a date between Saturday 28 August and Sunday 24 October (you can walk as many days as you like between those dates too) Entry is £10, which will help the charity to train more life-changing hearing dogs, and entrants will receive a stylish and exclusive Great British Dog Walk bandana for their dog, a downloadable certificate, a fun activity pack of things to do during their walk. www.hearingdogs.org.uk/vgbdw

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THE GREAT WORCESTER MAIZE MAZE Upton Road Powick Worcester SATNAV POSTCODE: WR2 4QZ. For 2021 we have three maze trails again! Each maze incorporates a quiz to find and search for then work out your answers at the end.

Complete your answers and enter into our prize draw! Dog friendly days are Saturday’s . Please keep your dog on a lead and bring your own poop bags. Open 10am to 6pm daily (last entries 4.30pm).

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SEPTEMBER Saturday 4th - Sunday 12th H.ART - HEREFORDSHIRE ART WEEK Herefordshire Art Week is a nine day art trail open to all. Artists, craftmakers and creative businesses open their private studios everyday from 11am - 5pm at least. Galleries put on special events, whilst groups get together to put on one-off exhibitions, in a wonderful mix of interesting venues. Since 2002 our county wide art trail has taken place every year in the second week of September. h.Art has become part of Herefordshire’s rich cultural calendar, with a huge variety of art and art forms on show in Open Studios, Group Exhibitions and Gallery Events. With the vast majority offering FREE admission to visitors, h.Art promises a fun day out in one of England’s most beautiful counties. Meet hundreds of individual artists, see an array of artwork across the county in the city and countryside, in fabulous locations such as manor houses, historic barns, farms, churches and beautiful gardens. h.Art is really special for art lovers, promising personal encounters with some of the UK’s finest artists and makers in the intimacy of their own homes and studios. Discovering new work, as well as being able to buy or commission exactly what they want, all direct with the artist. All the elements combine to attract people who want a high quality, memorable experience.

Primary Times Back to School 2021

BUSFEST Three Counties Showground WR13 6NW The best and biggest VW Transporter Festival in the World.

A VW Event for all VW fans: a large trade area of transporter equipment and vehicle sales, many events and evening entertainment.

Tel: 01684 584924. www.busfest.org LUDLOW FOOD FESTIVAL

September 2019 saw our very special 25th Anniversary Ludlow Food Festival - it was a wonderful celebration of food and drink from the Marches area. With 3 bumper days, full to the brim and celebrating some of the finest producers and chefs of the region, it was a wonderful weekend!

With no events in 2020, we are excited to get going with our plans again in 2021. We will be picking up where we left off, and as always you will be guaranteed FREE talks, demonstrations and tastings across Ludlow’s main stages. Each stage hosts different Chef, Producer and Speaker appearances every day of the Festival. Dat tickets, Adult £12 Child £4 (aged 5-13 years) Under 5’s Free. www.ludlowfoodfestival.co.uk

Saturday 11th CHARITY BARN DANCE Barn Dance in aid of St Richard’s Hospice and St Andrew’s Church Stockton. Great Witley Village Hall, Worcester Road, Worcester.

Grab your cowboy boots and join us for a fun night of barn dancing! Our professional caller will have you dancing like a pro in no time! Bar snacks, soft and alcoholic drinks will be available to purchase on the night (cash only). All money raised will be split between St Richard’s Hospice and St Andrew’s Church Stockton on Teme. Tickets from £6. www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/charitybarn-dance-tickets-82190525073

Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th ANNUAL HORTICULTURAL SHOW De Beers Garden Centre, Worcester Road, Hartlebury, Kidderminster, DY11 7SB. The sale of the exibits starts at 3.15

on the Sunday. www.horticultural.org.uk POLLINATOR WEEKEND Caves Folly Nursery, Evendine Lane, Colwall Green, WR13 6DX. 10am to 4pm. Organised by Caves Folly Nursery, there will be creative workshops and free packets of seeds for all child visitors. A bumble bee house will be built over the two days and flowers will be on sale, raising money for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust. There’s also a free drop-in pollinator art workshop on the Sunday from 1pm to 4pm for all ages, run by a local artist. www.cavesfolly.com

Sunday 12th BANDS IN THE PARK Ross-on-Wye’s Bands in the Park is back for a new summer series. The free concerts start at 2.30pm and end at 4.30pm so BYOB ie Bring Your Own Blanket (or beverage / bite to eat / best friends...) and head down to the Caroline Symonds Gardens for a relaxing afternoon of summer entertainment.

MALVERN WELLS VILLAGE FETE & CLASSIC CAR SHOW The Village Green, The Crescent, Malvern Wells, WR14 4JG. 1pm to 4pm. Dog Show, Pony Rides, Live Music, Hot Food, Ice Cream, Teas & Cakes, Beer & Wine, Bouncy Castle, Kids Flying Chairs, Tombola, Stalls, games and much more. An afternoon of fun for all the family!

Please contact Sarah Hart (Clerk) clerk@malvernwells-pc.gov.uk FRAMPTON COUNTRY FAIR Frampton Country Fair, Frampton on Severn, Gloucester. 9am6pm. Held in 30 acres of beautiful parkland of Frampton Court Estate, this is one of the last truly traditional country fairs. Held in 30 acres of beautiful parkland of Frampton Court Estate, this is one of the last truly traditional Country Fairs. Join us in celebrating all that is great about the countryside and the people who work and live in it. Over 400 trade stands, three display rings - so much to see and do. framptoncountryfair.co.uk

FOR KIDS! AGES 6 - 10 HAVE FUN BURN OFF ENERGY MAKE NEW FRIENDS

• aMazing Hedge Puzzle • Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo • Miniature Golf Visit butterflyzoo.co.uk For everyday value ticket prices and exclusive online offers!

Symonds Yat West HR9 6DA Open daily from 10am Safe secure metered parking

LEARN NEW SKILLS DEVELOP CONFIDENCE THURSDAY EVENINGS 5.45pm-6.45pm @ LYPPARD HUB • FIVE WEEK COURSE £25 20% SIBLING DISCOUNT AVAILABLE CONTACT ROB ON FACEBOOK (ROB MARROW FITNESS AND BOXERCISE) OR TEXT 07514 322 446 TO BOOK A SPACE For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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however involve additional costs to cover transport, food or admission charges. The Festival Office will be available at The Burton Hotel in Mill Street. Please drop in and say hello and find out about last minute availability of walks. Alternatively call us on 07552 087786. We do hope you will come and join us for the weekend and enjoy all that the little town of Kington has to offer.

Thursday 16th HAND TIED BOUQUET WORKSHOP Ever wondered how to make a hand tied bouquet? Want to improve your technique? We have teamed up with Jenny and Lisa, The Flower Ladies, to provide a 2 hour workshop including seasonal flowers, all necessary equipment.

You will make and take home a wonderful hand tied bouquet made by your own fair hands. Your ticket also includes a hot drink of your choice from our farm cafe.

Maximum of 8 people per session, so Jenny and Lisa will be able to give you their full attention.

10:30am-12:30pm (please arrive by 10:15 to ensure a prompt start of the session at 10:30am) Tickets are non-refundable. Please see full ticketed events terms and conditions. bennettswillowbarn. merlintickets.co.uk

Thursday 16th - Sunday 19th KINGTON WALKS FESTIVAL Kington, HR5 3DJ. Welcome to our tenth annual Festival. We are pleased to be back with our full programme of walks and events over the weekend. Kington is one of the great small market towns of Britain. Situated close to the Welsh Border it was for centuries a centre for cattle drovers and a web of footpaths centred on the town await the keen walker. The Offa’s Dyke Path National Trail, The Herefordshire Trail, Mortimer Trail and the Wyche Way all pass through (or start/finish) in the town. The year’s Festival will include our usual wide range of walks to suit all abilities and interests and covers history, natural history, geology, landscapes, a few pubs along the way and much more. We are pleased to be able to reduce the basic price of a walk to £5.00 per person for both half day and full day walks. Some walks do

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Saturday 18th CHARLTON KINGS PARISH COUNCIL’S AUTUMN FAYRE Grange Field GL53 8AR, Tewkesbury The Autumn Fayre is a free, family fun event. In addition to Scarrotts Funfair, we hope to have a professional children’s entertainer, a much requested return visit from the amazing falconry display and performances from Cheltenham Silver Band and some new attractions. Visitors will be able to meet local Councillors and experts from various fields at both the CK Health Connect and CK Futures stands. 2pm - 6pm.

Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th ABERGAVENNY FOOD FESTIVAL This year’s event will see stars such as Matt Tebbutt and Olly Smith (Saturday Kitchen), Chetna Makhan (Food with Chetna), Chris Harrod (Michelin-starred The Whitebrook), Jane Baxter (Wild Artichokes Kitchen), Vanessa Kimbell (Sourdough School) and Poppy O’Toole (Poppy Cooks), plus Hang Fire girls, Sam and Shauna.

More names are to be announced, and these will be alongside a smogasbord of food producers from across the country. Like everyone else, we’re presenting a slightly different event this year. We still want to keep AFF21 fresh and relevant, to deliver amazing experiences for both our producers and visitors, to bring people together in different ways.

We’re keeping it simple by limiting attendance to ensure the weekend is safe and enjoyable for everyone. This means all stroller ticket/wristbands and event tickets will be pre-sold.

We’re restricting visitors to just five thousand a day so you can safely join stallholders, performers, and all manner of culinary movers and shakers for a much anticipated return to proper fun and feasting on the Welsh

Primary Times Back to School 2021

Borders. Let’s raise a glass to that! www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com SHE CAN DO WILD RETREAT Rest, recharge and re-wild yourself on our unique fire, food & folktale retreat for women. This all-woman, intimate retreat focuses on providing you with a very special outdoor experience. Our She Can Do Wild weekend is all about supporting women to gently reconnect with the natural world; rebuilding confidence by providing a variety of practical and empowering outdoor experiences ​ in a sensitive and supported way think gentle story walks where we teach you to read the space you are exploring, campfire cooking that excites and delights with delicious new ideas, creative crafting that provides time to reflect and recharge, and lantern-lit storytelling beneath starry skies when it’s time to lie back and be still. All this with like-minded women who are keen to invite a little more wild into their lives! Full price tickets are £280 for the weekend and concession tickets are £195. A ‘pay half now, half later’ is also available - get in touch for more details. www. thewildofthewords.co.uk/

Sunday 19th RUN HEREFORD 2021 RUN with us on a largely flat course with the added of bonus of running part of it beside the encouraging crowds gathered at the Livestock Market. Open to anyone aged eight and over. Sponsored entry £8, Adult entry £15 Child entry (under 18) £8 Hereford Livestock Market Free parking onsite. www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk UK GROOVE Bentley Heath Community Centre, Widney Road, Bentley Heath, Solihull B93 9BQ. Join our UK Groove facilitators in this fabulous and fun Groove Experience.

EVERYONE is welcome - no previous dance experience is needed. You’ll be led through a funky, feel good dance party to keep us connected and grooving our hearts out! 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. https://bentleyheathhall.co.uk Donations appreciated - pay what you can.

Friday 24th - Sunday 26th MALVERN AUTUMN SHOW There’s something for the whole family at Malvern Autumn Show, and best of all many activities for kids are free. FAMILY GREEN. Have a go at a whole host of free activities including circus skills, mini-golf, croquet, giant Jenga, bushcraft skills and pedal tractors. Discover Harvest.

The Discover Harvest Village Show is a mini Harvest Festival created by children and is jam packed imaginative home makes including creatures from fruit and vegetables, decorated plant pots and snaps of ‘Wildlife’ and ‘Life in Lockdown’. Top Dogs Arena The place to see four-legged friends, the arena is crammed with clever canines displaying their skills in agility, speed and team sports.

WORLD OF ANIMALS- With over 70 displays this is one of our most popular areas for show-goers. With animals of all shapes and sizes waiting to greet visitors including alpacas, dogs, horses, sheep and more. NEW - Making a striking addition to the area this year are the Dyfed-Powys Police Mounted Specials and army mascot Lance Corporal Jones from the Queens Dragoon Guards and his Farrier Major who are only too keen to share their knowledge about life in the services. Giant Tortoises -Come and see the amazing Aldabra Giant tortoises, they are the longest living land animals in the world, with some reaching the grand old age of 200 years. Poultry- Poultry and waterfowl competitions are held across the weekend.

There are many wonderful birds with fascinating names such as Millifleur Barbu D’Uccle and Barbu D’Grubbe and don’t miss the champions row displaying the finest birds in the show. There are plenty of experts on hand to give advice and there are birds for sale. Rabbits -Competitions taking place across the three days of the show featuring breeds such as the Dutch, French Lop, Lionhead and Angora. There are also experts on hand to answer any questions about keeping them at home. Advance General Admission £18.00, Advance Members £14.40, Under 16s go free (ticket required).

Saturday 25th MUSIC FESTIVAL IN AID OF BEWDLEY SCOUT GROUP Bell’s Farm Shop & Pick Your Own, Bells Farm, Stourport-on-Severn.

Come down to Bells Farm for an evening of awesome music, food and fresh air. Bells Farm Shop is putting on a music festival in Stourport to raise money for Bewdley Scout Group. The money raised will help to secure the future of the scout hut and to finish the remodel of the scout hut itself. We have not released the band names yet but we will do slowly on both of our Facebook pages; www.facebook.com/ bewdleyscouts. www.facebook. com/bellsfarm’shop. We are so pleased to be putting on this event! Tickets may be available on the day however, these will be charged at a higher rate and cash only on the night. These are to be purchased from the check-in location. Tickets from £5 - £25 for a family.

HEREFORDSHIRE FARMERS SOAPBOX DERBY!!

We are Farming Minds present Farmers Soapbox Derby at Kings Pitts Farm, Aconbury, Herefordshire. 20 soapboxes made by local farmers, race against the clock to win! Farmers will be marked on their “dance performance” and “Soapbox design” before setting off down the track !! Followed by an evening of fun, dancing and good food! Bar, Live Music by the Goldblum’s, Rodeo Bull, Delicious food by Sisters catering. Come and join us for a fun and entertaining evening!! Not to be missed!

Monday 26th COMMUNITY LITTER PICK Diglis Park, WR2 4 Worcester, UK, Worcester. Come and join the Friends of Diglis Fields for one of our regular litter picks.

Help to keep our beautiful green space tidy. All tools and equipment provided, please wear suitable footwear. Meet at the model railway entrance, everyone welcome. We are a local community group aiming to protect and improve the area around Diglis playing fields and Cherry Orchard Local Nature

Reserve. friendsofdiglisfields. weebly.com. 10am to midday.

DUCK RACE Parkfield, Croft Bank, West Malvern, WR14 4DX. Colwall Rotary Club Duck Race. 400 ducks racing down the stream. Food and Drink available Entry is Free. 1pm start. There will be 5 races and 5 prizes – Tickets £5 for all 5 races – proceeds to several charities. www.colwallrotary.org.uk THE KING IS DEAD Harvington Hall, Harvington Hall Lane, DY10 4LR. The rule of infamous King Henry VIII has come to an end with his demise in 1547 but the House of Tudor is set to continue. From one royal court of scheming, scandals and beheadings to the next, the reign of Edward VI through to Elizabeth I offer further compelling intrigue into England’s Royal Tudor history.

Including Mary Queen of Scots with her dramatic life full of politics, incarceration and tragedy.

William Cecil 1st Baron Burghley, chief advisor of Elizabeth I and the most powerful non-royal figure in Elizabethan England. Come and meet these fascinating historical figures. A truly fun day out for all the family. £5 per ticket.

Monday 27th & Tuesday 28th TOGETHER WITH MUSIC 4 NATIONS SONGWRITING TOUR Where Next Redditch, Easemore Road, Redditch. Together with Music (TwM) are embarking on a UK wide song-writing tour to support reconnection and amplify the voices of people from all generations and walks of life. TwM will be running 2 days of workshops to promote understanding around music, health and wellbeing and to encourage intergenerational connections through music making and song-writing. This unique song-writing project will span the whole of the UK linking in with TwM members in care homes, hospitals, schools and community groups to get involved in these bespoke workshops. www. togetherwithmusic.org.uk/contact

Tuesday 28th BABY AND CHILD FIRST AID CLASS Movement & Co, Orchard court, Wickhamford, WR11 7RP. Two hour baby and child first aid class for parents, carers and grandparents. Covering, CPR, choking, bleeding, breaks, burns and bumps, febrile convulsions and meningitis awareness. £20 per person booking through. 7pm9pm. hereford.minifirstaid.co.uk/ classes/open/6838

OCTOBER Saturday 2nd TENBURY APPLEFEST Tenbury Wells, WR15 8SF. Each year Tenbury Wells celebrates the Mighty Apple with a one day event held on the Town’s Burgage Recreational Area. The Burgage, www.tenburyapplefest.co.uk/

Wednesday 6th LUDLOW RACES Ludlow Racecourse, Bromfield, Ludlow, SY8 2BT. Racing at Ludlow Racecourse. This friendly National Hunt racecourse, often referred to as Lovely Ludlow by Radio 5 Live, is just 2 miles north of Ludlow town centre. A great day out for all race fans. According to local legend in the fourteenth century soldiers from Ludlow Castle came here to match their horses. There is certainly a record of racing in 1725. The course retains its Edwardian character and also its strong club atmosphere. Now a National Hunt Course, jumping started in the mid- nineteenth century. Gates are open 2 hours before the first race. First race times are subject to change, please check www.ludlowracecourse.co.uk or the daily press for changes. www.ludlowracecourse.co.uk

Friday 8th - Monday 11th AUTUMN YOGA RETREAT IN HEREFORD 2021 Our UK Weekend Retreats are the perfect way to recharge and rejuvenate your body and mind. Enjoy a weekend of yoga, meditation and delicious healthy food. Our yoga retreats are open to all! Beginners to yoga are more than welcome and classes will be

catered accordingly. Yogi’s with a regular practice can immerse themselves in daily classes, meditation and workshops to take their practice deeper. If you are recovering from an injury or have any health issues, please let us know and we will assist you to tailor your yoga practice accordingly.

Our Yoga Retreats are a beautiful weekend away whether you are travelling alone or with a friend or family member. It is a great opportunity to enjoy a sociable weekend of yoga with like-minded people. Our Yoga Retreats will empower you to transform your body and mind, and to live a healthier and happier life! www.bravespirityogaretreats.com

Thursday 14th THE BIG WORCESTER SLEEP OUT The Big Worcester Sleep Out will return to Six Ways Stadium, raising money for three Worcester Charities; St Paul’s Hostel, Warriors Community Foundation, and Maggs Day Centre. Our mission is to raise awareness of the complex issues surrounding homelessness within our county, and the services our charities relentlessly push forward. We are aiming to raise £45,000 for 2021 with all of the funds raised will be split equally between our charities. Fundraising is being managed by Just Giving, and all you have to do to sign up to sleep out is our website and follow the sign-up link. Sign up today to help change lives!

We take great care to ensure all this information is correct at the time of going to press. However, we would advise parents to phone and check details prior to making a long trip... or promise!

For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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MINI ME YOGA Supporting children’s emotional and physical wellbeing in the current climate is paramount to creating happy, healthy kids.

Join us for CPD accredited training where you have lots of practical and fun ways to support wellbeing through yoga, mindfulness, positive thinking techniques and more! Bring laughter and joy into your home or

educational setting whilst building self-esteem, confidence, increasing motivation and focus and calming our bodies and mind to encourage a positive learning environment and growth mindset.

Contact: vicki@minimeyoga.com Tel: 07999 233 002 www.minimeyoga.com

For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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EARL MORTIMER COLLEGE & SIXTH FORM CENTRE Earl Mortimer College & Sixth Form Centre continues to go from strength to strength in all areas of school life. As the Principal of the College, I can confirm that we have very high expectations of all our students. From the moment they join us, students are a part of our school community.

The support we offer and the opportunities we provide are why our students achieve so well.

The school aims to engage students, to help them to develop a mindset where learning is important and to provide challenge through our everyday lessons and activities. We believe very strongly in enabling each child to be successful, whether that is through gaining academic qualifications or through contributions to the school and wider community.

We are determined to facilitate outstanding outcomes, valuable opportunities to learn and most importantly, a happy experience of education. As a parent or carer, you can be sure that at Earl Mortimer College we want every student to enjoy their learning and to reach their potential in an environment that will offer both support and challenge.

You are most welcome to visit the College for our Open Evening and open days to experience all that we have to offer.

Alison Banner Principal

FAIRFIELD HIGH SCHOOL Peterchurch, Hereford HR2 0SG Tel: 01981 550231 Email: admin@fairfield.hereford.sch.uk Website: www.fairfield.hereford.sch.uk

An “Outstanding” school set in the Golden Valley, consistently one of the best performing non-selective state schools in England

OPEN DAYS

Tuesday 21st, Wednesday 22nd, Thursday 30th September & Friday 1st October 2021 Prospective parents/carers are invited to visit the school whilst it is in session to experience our unique atmosphere and wide range of opportunities. Tours of the school will take place each day at 9.15am, 11.30am and 1.50pm.

Please contact the school to reserve a place on the tour of your choice.

Parents/Carers are advised to check the school website prior to their visit for any possible changes due to COVID 19.

“Students receive an outstanding education at Fairfield High School. This includes their personal development as well as their academic achievement” Ofsted

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QUEEN ELIZABETH HIGH SCHOOL

In these difficult times parents and carers will feel the extra responsibility of all the choices they have to make on a daily basis to ensure their children are happy and safe. For those of you now considering the choice of secondary school for your child in 2022, you must navigate a wealth of information, regulation and circumstances so different to what we have been used to, in order to achieve the best fit for your children. Queen Elizabeth High School in Bromyard is a small rural secondary school. We number just under 360 pupils with admissions to our new Year 7 set at 80 places. In many ways we mirror the provision in so many local primary schools, a small rural offer very bespoke to the needs and aspirations of our pupils, perhaps this is why so many parents are seeing the benefits that such a small provision can bring to their children as they transition to High

School. We develop pupils academically, securing strong examination performance over a number of years, so that those pupils who will leave us to progress to college and ultimately university are well placed to access the very best courses in the very best institutions.

Equally, we appreciate and cater for those pupils that see their pathway differently. Our vocational offer is amongst the very best for pupils in mainstream secondary schools within the Three Counties area and many of our pupils go on to their choice of apprenticeship or sustained employment. Our Vocational Centre creates real opportunities for our pupils. Here they can learn skills in construction, animal care and automotive studies, leading to recognised qualifications that see them at an advantage when they come to

consider their future Post 16. This breadth of choice in the curriculum is a real strength for our pupils. We are a happy, vibrant and caring school.

In August 2019, the school achieved a strong set of GCSE examination results with 73% of students achieving 5 GCSEs at Grade 4+ including English and Maths and 63% of students achieving 5 GCSEs at Grade 5+ including English and Maths.

We have a planned Open Evening on Tuesday September 21st or we would be pleased to show you through a booked tour available from 27th September through October, just get in touch with us to make a booking. n Mr M Farmer, Executive Headteacher

For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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PREPARING CHILDREN FOR AN EVER-CHANGING WORLD using Sphero and Microbit robots to explore programming and learn how to code.

This year sees the start of a cross-cutting initiative across all subjects and departments to foster assets such as collaboration, communication and reflection; children will also have the chance to take part in the Junior Duke of Edinburgh Awards, aimed at developing independence, self-motivation and other important life skills.

“Our mission has always been to develop the whole child, not just ensure they achieve their full academic potential,” says Headmaster Alastair Cook, “and we are constantly looking for ways to nurture skills which will stay with them for life.”

It’s start-of-term at The Downs Malvern, and this new school year sees some important innovations to equip pupils for an everchanging world.

The school has been investing in the very latest computers, laptops and iPads to

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Primary Times Back to School 2021

ensure that IT is available to all pupils from Reception through to Year 8 to enhance their creativity, problem solving skills and logical thinking as well as familiarise them with ICT and computer technology. Throughout the school, pupils are given exciting opportunities to develop their computational thinking by

Parents of young children locally will also be delighted to know that a new weekly parent and toddler group will be running on Tuesdays throughout term times between 9.30 and 11.30am. All local children aged between two and four (plus younger siblings) will be welcome. There is no cost to attend, although any donations made will go to a local charity. n

The Bishop Of Hereford’s Bluecoat School Hampton Dene Road, Tupsley, Hereford HR1 1UU Telephone: 01432 347500 Enquiries: head@bhbs.hereford.sch.uk

Always faithful with Christ Rated Good SIAM’s Inspection July 2018

Academic Excellence • Pastoral Care • Extra Curricular Opportunities • Community Spirit Open Evening Tuesday 5th October, 6pm

Headteacher’s Presentations: 6.30pm, 7.15pm and 7.45pm in the Main Hall.

Please contact reception on 01432 347501 or email openeveningbookings@bhbs.hereford.sch.uk

Open Mornings Wednesday 29th September Thursday 14th October Wednesday 20th October

Tours of the school at 9.15am and 11.15am.

Please contact reception on 01432 347501 or email: openeveningbookings@bhbs.hereford.sch.uk to book your place

We believe you will find: • A discernable energy and thirst for learning built on clear Christian values where everyone matters; • A school where students are given every opportunity to succeed in the widest sense, achieving the best possible outcomes; • A wide range of extra-curricular opportunities; • The whole school community: governors and staff, partents/carers and young people all working together; using expertise, experience and innovation; and students making a positive contribution to the communities in which they live

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Primary Times Back to School 2021

NUNNERY WOOD HIGH SCHOOL When you are looking for the best school for your child, their happiness and ability to thrive will be foremost in your mind. With absolute conviction, as Headteacher, I can recommend Nunnery Wood High School as a place of opportunity, growth and enjoyment. Our most recent Ofsted report confirmed this too, identifying, “an ethos in which pupils are encouraged to strive for their best, succeed academically, develop their talents and become responsible citizens. The personal development of pupils is excellent.” In our most recent survey, 99% of our parents would recommend Nunnery to others.

Worcestershire schools, including some from the independent sector, use out superb running stadium and all weather pitches speaks volumes. In addition to huge playing fields and athletics facilities, student use a sports centre, fitness suite and gymnasium. Likewise, in the arts, students are taught in a state-of-the-art theatre, dance studio and suite of music rooms. Over the past 3 years, a £2.2 million investment has seen the science and visual art departments becoming stunning learning environments with cutting edge technology and exhibition spaces.

Transition to secondary school is an important event for both the student and their family. We invest time and care in this process to ensure that it is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Year 6 students will meet their future Head of Year 7, both in their primary school and at Nunnery. In addition to this, we offer an induction day in the summer term so that students can take the September start in their stride.

Outstanding teaching underpins everything, of course, and at Nunnery, students are expected to show the “old fashioned” expectations of politeness and hard-work at all times. We expect and achieve high levels of smartness and conduct, enabling every student to learn in calm and orderly environment. This allows for a sense of fun and open-mindedness about new ways to learn. As a consequence, results are superb. Our Progress 8 score - the progress all students make at Nunnery from their starting point compared to students in other schools nationwide – is the highest

Visitors to Nunnery High School are invariably impressed by our outstanding site and facilities. The fact that several

in Worcestershire and puts us alongside the best schools in the country. This cannot come simply from exam drilling of course, and is proof of the precision and dedication with which students are taught and nurtured from their first day in Year 7, whatever their needs or capabilities.

Finally, schools are so much more than just results. I believe that the range of activities, clubs, sports and trips that the school offers is second to none. Added to this, through our student parliament, student leadership team and enrichment programme, students have wide opportunities to get engaged in school life and to understand themselves better.

Thank you for the interest you have already shown in us. Please look at our website and perhaps read copies of our school publication “Nunnery News”, available online, to get more of a “feel” for our superb school. n Stephen Powell, Headteacher, Nunnery Wood High School

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SHAPING CHARACTER AND VALUES Recently described by The Good Schools Guide as ‘a highly regarded yet down-toearth cathedral school’, The King’s School Worcester is part of a family of schools that inspire pupils to aim higher. The King’s Worcester Foundation is a dynamic and supportive community of three independent day schools for boys and girls aged two to eighteen. It is comprised of a Senior School and Sixth Form, King’s Worcester, and two Prep Schools with nurseries, King’s St Alban’s and King’s Hawford, based across two beautiful sites.

From Prep-Schools, through to Senior and Sixth Form, pupils grow, thrive and flourish at King’s.

Wherever pupils begin their King’s journey there is a strong focus on the development of each individual. This ensures pupils develop as inquisitive, confident and engaged members of both the King’s community and in the wider society. The schools’ ethos emphasises mutual respect, openness and warmth, it is the quality of relationships within the school that the pupils talk highly of. ‘For us, it’s the warmth that is its USP... Couldn’t be more caring if they tried.’

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Primary Times Back to School 2021

Located alongside one of England’s finest Cathedrals and sitting on the banks of its longest river, The Senior School and Sixth Form is proud of its rich heritage and it is this rich heritage combined with contemporary architecture that is responsible for shaping the character of its pupils. King’s pupils have the passion to keep on learning, the character to bounce from failure, the confidence to follow their own paths and the values to lead lives of purpose. Often described as polite and quietly confident, King’s Worcester pupils have an air of feeling comfortable with themselves and the world.

The King’s Worcester Prep Schools provide children with firm foundations for their education journey. It is these foundations that help shape and nurture their emerging characters. King’s St Alban’s Prep School excels at celebrating individuality and is a place where kindness rules. The school’s location close to the Senior School ensures a smooth transition from Year 6 to Year 7.

King’s Hawford children have a real sense of belonging and develop positive selfesteem. Set in 23 acres of land, which runs alongside the Droitwich canal in the heart

of Worcestershire, King’s Hawford’s rural location inspires its pupils every day. As well as the extensive grounds, children are encouraged to make full use of the adjacent river, canal and farm. The school celebrates the outdoors, with outdoor learning featuring prominently in the curriculum.

“Pupils achieve highly in both academic and extra-curricular areas and especially so in art, drama, music and sport.” ISI Report.

The Senior School’s city centre location means there are no shortage of transport links and the school’s own transport network has recently been expanded in response to demand to provide ease of access to the school from across the West Midlands. In addition to current routes the school is launching four new routes from September 2021 that will be fulfilled by King’s Worcester drivers or drivers from partner coach companies. These routes will now provide direct access to King’s Worcester from North-East Worcestershire, Evesham, Tewkesbury, Malvern, Bromsgrove and their surrounding areas. n To find out what makes King’s so unique, join them at one of their forthcoming Open Mornings: ksw.org.uk/shapedbykings

OPEN EVENING

Reception / Year 7 for admissions September 2022

Tuesday 5th October 2021 5pm to 7pm

For further information please email: karen.roth@holytrinity.co.uk

Holy Trinity School and Sixth Form Centre

Birmingham Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY10 2BY Telephone 01562 822929 | Email: office@holytrinity.co.uk www.holytrinity.co.uk

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BE ANYTHING. ACHIEVE EVERYTHING

We believe in developing the life skills of the girls from their very first day with us; always mindful of the years ahead of them beyond school and the need to prepare them for the wider world.

We passionately believe Prep at Malvern St James Girls’ School provides the best possible start for your daughter.

By building solid foundations to last a lifetime, we begin each child on their personalised learning journey. Our staff are incredibly committed, dedicating time and care to ensure your daughter feels safe, confident and happy from her very first day.

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Primary Times Back to School 2021

Pre-Prep at Malvern St James spans the three years from Reception to Year 2 and Prep spans the four years from Year 3 to Year 6. The building also houses the Senior School which enables the youngest girls to benefit from all the outstanding learning facilities on offer.

The excellent specialist subject teachers from the Senior School also teach in Prep.

Our beautiful campus is in Malvern, Worcestershire, and School minibuses operate with multiple collection points around Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Wraparound care is also available. n To find out more join us at our next Open Morning on Saturday 9 October, to register visit malvernstjames.co.uk/visit.

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e r t a The S W O H S ’S N E R D L I FAMILY & CH

norbury theatre Tel: 01905 770154 ‘GOODNIGHT MISTER TOM’ 16th - 18th, 23rd - 25th September. THE NORBURY PLAYERS PRESENT AN AMATEUR PRODUCTION. THIS AMATEUR PRODUCTION OF “GOODNIGHT MISTER TOM” IS PRESENTED BY ARRANGEMENT WITH CONCORD THEATRICALS LTD. ON BEHALF OF SAMUEL FRENCH LTD. WWW. CONCORDTHEATRICALS.CO.UK Goodnight Mister Tom - a play

by David Wood from the novel

by Michelle Magorian. One of the most uplifting stories ever written, Michelle Magorian’s stunning Goodnight Mister Tom is brought gloriously to life in this stage adaptation by David Wood.

Set during the dark and dangerous build up to the Second World War the play follows sad young William Beech who is evacuated to the idyllic English countryside and builds a remarkable and moving friendship with the elderly recluse Tom Oakley. All seems perfect until William is devastatingly summoned by his mother back to London. 7.30 – Matinee Sat 25th at 2.30. Tickets £12/£11

CHILDREN’S THEATRE ‘SNARKMAN AND THE GOOD WITCH’

BY SHEILA CAMPBELL

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Saturday 18th September, 2.30pm. A short play performed by adults for children aged three and over. The play makes a great birthday treat for children. Tickets £2

Number 8 Tel: 01386 555488 THE BUBBLE SHOW! Friday 29th October Join Mr Bubbles with his extraordinary soap bubbles in all shapes and sizes! Enjoy bouncy bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, smoke bubbles, square bubbles, giant bubbles and even fire bubbles!

The Bubble Show is a unique blend of magic, storytelling and bubble art! Actor, storyteller and Guinness World bubble record holder, Eran The Bubble Man is one of the top bubble artists in the world and brings you an interactive, fun, international award-winning bubble extravaganza! Suitable for ages 3-12.

“The Bubble Show: flawlessly simple and full of wonder with engaging showmanship from bubble maestro Eran The Bubble Man” **** The List (Edinburgh) “The Bubble Show: flawlessly simple and full of wonder” ***** Deadline News (New Zealand).

Best Family-Act award Face TV, New Zealand 2016. Audience Choice Award Nelson Fringe 2018. Top Children’s Entertainer Award, NZ Variety Artists Club, 2019. As seen in

Primary Times Back to School 2021

the Guinness World Records 2020. At present this event is not available to book online, to book please contact Box Office on 01386 555488. Tickets: £10, 16 & under £8, (plus 65p per ticket if booked online)

palace theatre Tel: 01527 65203 HORRIBLE HISTORIES Saturday 9th October. We all want to meet people from history!

The trouble is everyone is dead!

So it’s time to prepare for Horrible Histories live on stage with the acclaimed production of Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians! Are you ready to swing with a Georgian king? Can you see eye to eye with Admiral Nelson? Does the Duke the Wellington get the boot? Dare you dance the Tyburn gig? Will you be saved by Florence Nightingale?

Find out what a baby farmer did and move to the groove with party Queen Victoria! Don’t miss this horrible history of Britain with the nasty bits left in! “The Horrible Histories stage shows have become a bit of a British institution. Sparky, cheeky and covered in poo!” The Guardian. “Hilariously vulgar, brilliantly grisly – it has the young audience in stitches!” Daily Express Tickets: £16, £13 (disc), £54 (family ticket), £56 Box (max 4 people).

worcester live Tel: 01905 611427 BIG RED BATH Swan Theatre. Monday 25th October, 11am & 2pm Rubba-Dubba-Giggle, Rubba-DubbaLaugh, there’s magic to be found in the Big Red Bath. It’s the end of a busy day and it is almost time for bed, and Ben and Bella are in the bath. Splish! Splosh! Splash!

Bubbles burst and bubbles rise and a frothy feast of animals jump right in to join in the fun. Come with us on a bubbly, barmy bath time adventure around the world and home again celebrating all things bath time. Adapted from Julia Jarman and Adrian Reynolds’ popular children’s picture book, this quirky, vibrant, and humorous tale for 2-5 year-olds features music by Evergreen, an alternative indieelectro-pop trio who bring a blend of folk melodies, electro beats, and vocal harmonies. Big Red Bath is an exciting collaboration between Full House Theatre and Half Moon, that returns due to popular demand following hugely successful tours in 2013-2015, including a sell-out run at the Edinburgh Festival. This uplifting and playful production blends music, song, and humorous character-based performances in a unique take on this well-loved book. Price: £12.50

Crescents Ballet School Principal: Ms Jane Chance L.R.A.D., A.I.S.T.D. (M.D.)

Come and join the fun

With nearly 100 classes a week, for tots to adults, we’ve got you covered!

We offer ballet, tap, modern, commercial, street, lyrical, contemporary, acro and pointe work to name a few!

Multiple class and sibling discounts also offered.

Classes in Worcester & Droitwich

Enrol now and see where dancing stars are created...

For more information call 07971 902 952 or 01905 724614

www.crescentsballetschool.co.uk

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