e e fr
E UID G ON S ’ AT WH
for parents, teachers and children
in Hereford & Worcester February Half Term 2016
1st February - 14th March 2016
A Week At The Oscars! at Museum of Carpet in Kidderminster see page 21 for more information
Plus
Roundabout, Bookstore, There’s a Louse Loose About The House! and much more!
Education
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School News ..........................................................................................
In Hereford & Worcester
Second Floor, Richardson House, 21/24 New St, Worcester. WR1 2DP. Tel: 01905 723011 Fax: 01905 780103
Bookstore Half Term Reading
..........................................................................................
Publishing Editor: Dawn Pardoe - 01905 727909
Roundabout
Design and Production: Paul Blyth and Amy Thomas
What’s On
Events Listings: Amy Thomas - amy@pw-media.co.uk 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 Surrey. It is also available by subscription at £10 per year. Its aims are to inform families and children of current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine by adding to its contents or joining in the competitions which we run. It is not our intention to publish any racist, sexist or politically 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 1,900,000 copies per issue throughout the counties of: Avon, Beds & Luton, Berkshire, Black Country, Bucks & Milton Keynes, Cambridge, Cardiff and S E Wales, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Devon, Dorset, Edinburgh, Essex, Fife, Tayside and Central Scotland, Glasgow & Central Scotland, Gloucester, Hampshire, Hereford and Worcester, Hertfordshire, Ireland (Kildare, Meath, Wicklow, South Dublin, Cork & Waterford), Kent, Leicester, Lincolnshire, East, West, South & North London, Newcastle & North Tyneside, Norfolk, Northampton, Nottinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Staffordshire, Surrey, Sussex, Tees Valley, West Midlands, Wiltshire, South & West Yorkshire. For further details contact The Primary Times Team on 01905 723011
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It’s Party Time!
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Theatre 18 Who’s Treading The Boards? ..........................................................................................
A Week At The Oscars
21
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There’s a Louse Loose About The House
22
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Family Marketplace
30
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For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
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How effective is
Play Therapy? – Parents
and Referrers Observations The latest review of play therapy delivered to Play Therapy UK’s standards compares parents’ observations to those of the referrer, who is often the child’s teacher.
play therapy is effective in enabling children to cope in many situations.
Parents observed that 80% of the children referred with a borderline or abnormal condition, show a positive change. This result is based on 10130 cases.
The results have been obtained where play therapy has been delivered by therapists trained to Play Therapy UK standards. This uses an Integrative Holistic Model that integrates:
Referrers observed that 77% of the children referred with a borderline or abnormal condition, show a positive change. This result is based on 10840 cases. The similarity of outcomes suggests that
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Primary Times February Half Term 2016
There is an important caveat.
• Working with unconscious and conscious processes; • the use of a wide range of creative arts media – drawing/painting; sandtray; clay; music; puppets; masks; movement;
creative visualisation; therapeutic storytelling; • the use of both non-directive & directive methods; • practice and research
Training to PTUK standards gives admission to the Register of Play and Creative Arts Therapists which is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority. Find your local Play Therapists: www.playtherapyregister.org.uk Further information about training to PTUK standards: http://www.playtherapy.org.uk/ trainingcoursescontent.html n
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
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St RICHARD’S Senior schools welcome boys and girls who are energetic, resilient and enthusiastic team players, who take their lives at school seriously but enjoy them too. At St Richard’s the tally of scholarships and awards continues to grow, with already three won this year in art and drama. The huge activities timetable: orchestra, choir, (nine different music groups), yoga, drama, art, ballet, county cricket coaches, cards, Lego, woodwork, Mandarin and riding to name a few, means children can develop their strengths in many areas. The children have the freedom to be outside, whether making dens in the woods or enjoying our new outdoor classroom. There is sport every day to complement a full academic programme taught be specialist teachers in small classes. The result? In 2013 over 60% of our pupils won a scholarship or head teacher’s award to their first choice of school and this has grown since to over 80% last year.
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Come and see how we do it – there are daily buses to and from Hereford, Worcester, Eardisley, Weobley and Leominster. The size, scale and family atmosphere of the school mean that children can explore, test their strengths and address their weaknesses in a safe, non-threatening environment. They work and play together, looking out for each other, making lifelong friendships in the process. For some this starts in Year 1 (the pre-prep) but for others it is later. This is why the school is offering a series of sporting scholarships to children who would otherwise be unable to come, each of which comes with a generous (means-tested) bursary. To enrol on one of these assessment ‘taster days’ (taking place on Saturday 6th February and Saturday 23rd April) - please contact the office for more details. n
Primary Times February Half Term 2016
Fred de Falbe Headmaster
LOCAL BUSINESSWOMAN
CELEBRATES 5TH SUCCESSFUL YEAR IN
WORCESTERSHIRE Local businesswoman, Kate Attwood from Worcester is celebrating her 5th successful year in business as the owner of baby and child swimming company, Puddle Ducks Worcestershire. The Worcestershire franchise started teaching in January 2011, it now teaches at eleven pools, bringing its fun and effective swimming classes to parents and children across the area. Kate says: “It’s wonderfully rewarding to have reached this milestone, both from a personal and a business perspective. Parents in Worcestershire have been really supportive since our launch, and our customers are extremely loyal, which I believe is simply down to the quality of the teaching programme.” “We also keep our class sizes limited to ten children so my teachers can really give everyone the best
Your child has the potential Your child has the potential 10%
off first term fees *T&Cs apply
Your child has the potential Your child has the potential 10% 10%
attention. And, because we’re trained to recognise and work with different ability levels within the same group, children are given an individually tailored swim programme that lets them learn at their own pace.” Puddle Ducks welcomes older children, up to the age of ten, at its Swim Academy classes. Parents should never think their child is too old to learn to swim, lessons carefully nuture your child’s confidence, developing an effortless swimming style and gaining life-saving skills. Baby and pre-school classes have no minimum age requirement and take on babies from birth or as soon as Mum (or Dad!) is ready to go in the water. For class timetables and availability, visit www.puddleducks.com/ worcestershire or call 01905 888346. n
SS
Swim Academy age 4-10
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Swim Academy age 4-10
off off first first term term fees fees *T&Cs *T&Csapply apply
10%
We have the expertise worcestershire@puddleducks.com
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Academy! Our expert teachers carefully nurture your child’s tel: 01905 888346 tel: 01905 888346 visit:puddleducks.com/worcestershire visit:puddleducks.com/worcestershire swimming style and gaining worcestershire@puddleducks.comworcestershire@puddleducks.com life-saving skills, all while having fun! off first
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Academy! Our expert teachers carefully nurture your child’s swimming style and gaining life-saving skills, all while having fun!
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
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Primary Times February Half Term 2016
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
9
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HEREFORD CATHEDRAL CHOIR
start at just £5. A brilliant indoor
Do you know of a boy, aged
activity for individuals, families and
6–8 years of age, who might
friends. Opening hours Tues – Sat
be interested in joining the
10am – 4pm. Email admin@
internationally-renowned Hereford Cathedral Choir? As well as singing in the cathedral, the choir regularly tours abroad, broadcasts on TV & radio, annual perform in London (Guards’ Chapel) and takes part in the world-famous Three Choirs Festival. It may be your son, or equally it may be a grandson, nephew or the son of friends – sometimes a gentle nudge of the parents might be needed! If a parent or guardian would like an informal discussion about the opportunities, Geraint Bowen, the director of music, would be delighted to hear from you. Call: 01432 374238 Email: organist@ herefordcathedral.org or visit www. herefordcathedral.org All choristers receive generous scholarships to the Cathedral School and, in some cases, fully-funded places can be made available.
FEBRUARY Throughout February FAMILY POTTERY SESSIONS at Eastnor Pottery Eastnor Pottery, Home Farm, Eastnor,
eastnorpottery.co.uk or call 01531 633886 to book a session.
Saturday 6th TAP DANCING WORKSHOP The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford HR4 9JR. A fun, lively tap dancing workshop for families to enjoy together at 10.30am. This year, The Courtyard will be hosting family events every Saturday from 10.30am with a range of activities from workshops, films, shows, to lots of fun and games! Find out more at www.courtyard.org.uk or
WR1 2ND. Learn about industrial
need your little ones help to search
espionage in the 18th century, the
amongst the trees and follow the
secret recipe for making porcelain and
clues so we can return the crowns to
the lengths the factory owners went
all the Princesses! Along with our 2
to ensure no others knew of their
special trails for half-term, we have
invention; we guarantee the exhibits
lots of free children’s activities too!
will delight and surprise you! Time:
Join us for the dinosaur, fairy and new
10:00 to 16:00. Phone: 0190521247
pre-school Woodland Animal Trail,
Free with normal entry. www.
conquer our maze to reach the castle
museumofroyalworcester.org
and play in the adventure playground.
Saturday 13th Saturday 20th
There will be a small £2 cost per child for the Pirate Trail and Princess Trail, which both include a prize.
WYRE FOREST DANCE FESTIVAL
www.arleyarboretum.co.uk
Stourport Civic Theatre Hall,
WIND IN THE WILLOWS TRAIL
Stourport –on – Severn,
Croft Castle and Parkland, Yarpole,
Worcestershire DY13 8UJ. Wyre
Near Leominster HR6 9PW. ‘Wind
Forest District Council in association
in the Willows’ was a popular book
with Wyre Forest Dance Festival
read by children before and during
Committee are planning for the
the First World War. See if you
2016 Dance Festival. The Festival
can take yourself back in time and
is as popular as ever and has been
find the characters of the book in
extended by a day due to more
the gardens at Croft and collect a
dancers wishing to compete from
prize at the end. Normal admission
the existing schools. With increased
applies plus £2 per trail. www.
support from volunteers we are able
nationaltrust.org.uk
to accommodate the extra demand. We have young people from the ages
FIND THE FEATURE TRAIL
of 4- 25 taking part who perform a
Berrington Hall, Near Leominster HR6
range of different dance disciplines
0DW. Help us celebrate Capability
and some go on to forge successful
Brown’s final landscape at Berrington.
careers in the professional ranks
This year is the 300th anniversary of
or continue to perform locally.
the garden and landscape architect’s
The festival takes place from 9am-
birth. Follow our family trail around
8.30pm. www.wyreforestdc.
the gardens to see if you can find
gov.uk/events
what Brown designed and collected a prize at the end. Trail £2. Normal
call 01432 340555.
Saturday 13th Sunday 21st
Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th
KIDS GO FREE – FEBRUARY HALF-TERM
MYSTERY TRAIL
A WEEKEND OF LIVING HISTORY
Arley Arboretum & Gardens, Upper
The Elgar Birthplace Museum,
Arley, Near Bewdley Worcestershire
Crown East Lane, Lower Broadheath,
The Commandery, Sidbury,
DY12 1SQ. Batten down the hatches &
Worcester WR2 6RH. Pick up a free
Worcester WR1 2HU. Demonstrating
dust off your tiaras because KIDS GO
Mystery trail from our Front Desk
2,000 years of history from ancient
FREE* all half-term week and we’ve
and solve the code to find Elgar’s
Greeks to WWII, with a special
got 2 special trails for you... Every
lost batons!
English Civil War focus for the Year
day during half-term your little ones
www.elgarmuseum.org
of Liberty & Democracy. Time:
can choose to try either our Pirate or
10am – 5pm. Normal admission
Princess Trails. They can even bring
applies plus £2 per person. www.
their eye patches and tiaras to get
SIGNS OF SPRING FAMILY TRAIL
museumsworcestershire.
into character! Over the winter Pirates
Brockhampton Estate, Greenfields,
org.uk
took over the Arboretum and hid their
Bringsty, Bromyard WR6 5TB. Nature
treasure within the grounds. During
is waking up from its winter sleep.
your visit, your little pirates can
Buds ready to burst, sap starting
follow the clues to locate the missing
to rise, new shoots poking through
admission fees apply. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Simply turn up and choose from an
Saturday 13th Friday 19th
exciting menu of pottery projects
SPYING and SECRECY
treasure! Meanwhile, while running
the ground and wild birds hunting
using real clay. No minimum number
Royal Worcester Museum, Severn
from the pirates, the Princesses
for food. Join us in the search for
of participants required and projects
Street Worcester Worcestershire
of Arley, lost all their crowns! We
the signs that spring is coming. If
Ledbury, Herefordshire HR8 1RD.
10
Primary Times February Half Term 2016
Staines Advert.qxp_Layout 1 25/02/2015 15:40 Page 1
Enrolling now! Call your local school for details
Staines Advert.qxp_Layout 1 25/02/2015 15:40 Page 1
Enrolling now! Call your local school for details
Staines Advert.qxp_Layout 1 25/02/2015 15:40 Page 1 Staines Advert.qxp_Layout 1 25/02/2015 15:40 Page 1
Enrolling now! Call your local school for details
Enrolling now! Call your local school for details
Bromsgrove 01926 651159 | bromsgrove@stagecoach.co.uk
Believing in the potential Believing of everyinchild
Cwmbran & Monmouth 01633 662283 | cwmbran@stagecoach.co.uk Kidderminster 01562 66194 | kidderminster@stagecoach.co.uk Ledbury & Malvern 01452 332253 | malvern@stagecoach.co.uk
the potential of every child
Age 4 18 Age 4 confidence 18 Fun, building, educational Fun, confidence educational classes in acting, singing and dance. Believing in building,
classes in acting, singing and dance. the potential
of every child
QUALITY TRAINING QUALITY
ESTABLISHED 1988 TRAINING
6001988 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE ESTABLISHED 600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
11
R you look closely at nature you will see she never sleeps. Complete the signs of spring trail and win a prize. Trail costs £2 plus normal admission. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
CROOME – THE RIDDLE OF CROOME TRAIL Croome, near High Green, Worcester, Worcestershire WR8 9DW. Follow the clues round the park and decipher the riddle of Croome. Booking not needed. A National Trust Event - Start 10:00. End 16:00. £1.50 per trail with prizes for each one completed plus normal admission applies. For more details please phone: 01905 370005 - Becky Wilks - Events Officer. www. nationaltrust.org.uk/events
FIND FRUITS, FLOWERS and FOSSILS Worcester Cathedral, Chapter Office 8 College Yard Worcester Worcestershire WR1 2LA. Free family trails to follow including a safari back pack to borrow to help you in your research. Time: 9am – 5pm Phone: 01905 732900 Free entry www. worcestercathedral.co.uk
Saturday 13th February - Tuesday 12th April EDWARD LEAR: TRAVELS and NONSENSE Ashmolean Museum, Tudor House, High Street, Broadway, Worcestershire WR12 7DP. From 13 February 2016, the Ashmolean Museum Broadway will host an exhibition focusing on the extensive travels of Edward Lear (1812-1888). Lear was one of the most versatile and prolific artists of the nineteenth century. As an illustrator of natural history, he was supreme; as a traveller and recorder in pictures and
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prose of landscapes in the eastern
apply and there is a £3 additional
inspired, in part by the wet winter
Mediterranean and India, he was
charge for activities in New Guesten
and the popular English phrase.
unrivalled; as the author of nonsense
Hall. Please book your place
Sessions designed for two age
verses and stories, his popularity
in advance on 01527 831363.
groups although younger and
has never been eclipsed. He began
www.avoncroft.org.uk
older siblings will never be turned
his career as a supremely gifted
away: 11.30am-1pm 4-8 years and
illustrator of natural history. From
Tuesday 16th February
1837, he travelled more extensively
MATTERS of the BRAIN
£15 per child with a 10% discount
than any other artist, recording the
University of Worcester City Campus
for 3 or more places booked.
landscape in a vast series of sketches
Worcester WR1 3AS. A look at the
Telephone or email -booking
which he worked up into finished
body and what happens when we are
essential. 01531 633886 admin@
watercolours and oil paintings in
said to ‘fall in love’. Visitors will learn
eastnorpottery.co.uk
his studio. Time: 10am to 5pm.
about the influence the brain has on
Phone: 01386 859047 www.
the activity, what reactions happen,
ashmoleanbroadway.org
how and why. Guided tours of the
2-3.30pm 9-12 years. Places cost
Wednesday 17th Friday 19th
Activities 10am to 2pm. Phone:
HALF TERM FORESTRY ADVENTURE CLUB
ELGAR’S ENIGMAS
01905 542372. Free entry. www.
The Estate Office, Arley Arboretum &
The Elgar Birthplace Museum,
medicalmuseum.org.uk
Gardens, Upper Arley, Nr. Bewdley,
Monday 15th Crown East Lane, Lower Broadheath,
building at 11am, 12noon and 1pm.
Worcestershire DY12 1XG. During
Edward Elgar was a code maker and
Tuesday 16th Friday 19th
breaker? Create your own detective
FANTASTIC FEBRUARY FUN
for children to learn so much more
outfit and a personalised code maker
Worcestershire County Museum,
than just what’s in the classroom
so you can be a code breaker too!
Hartlebury Castle, Worcestershire
with our qualified forestry school
www.elgarmuseum.org
DY11 7XZ. Join us for four, fun-filled
teacher! From Bug hunts to Story
family craft activity days and explore
Telling, campfire songs and cooking,
1000 years of history through a
the Forestry Adventure Club has
free museum trail. An additional
it all! What will they get up to?
LOVE WORCESTER: IN A TRANCE
charge of £2 per child applies for
At Forestry Adventure Club your
the day’s activities. Adults £5, Child
children will be involved in many
Charles Hastings Education
& Conc. £2.50 under-fives free
activities including: Mud Kitchen,
Centre, Charles Hastings Way,
and family ticket £13. Opening
Campfires, Crafts, Bug Hunts,
Worcester WR5 1DD. Discover
times 10.30am-4pm. www.
Identifying Trees, Forestry Fire
the fascinating mystery world of
museumsworcestershire.
Lighting Songs and Story Telling.
anaesthetics, including what was
org.uk
Plus Clay Art Tools and Wood Work
Worcester WR2 6RH. Did you know
Monday 15th Friday 19th
used before anaesthetics to induce
each school holiday we will be running the Forestry Adventure Club
skills, Camp Fire Cooking e.g damper
unconsciousness. Would you prefer
Wednesday 17th
a punch in the face or a big bottle
Sessions: 10:00 to 12:00 or 13:00 to
of brandy? Take a #selfie of yourself
CLENT HILLS – WINTER WELLY WALKS
with your choice and post it to our
Nimmings Wood Car Park, Clent
additional sibling per session.
Twitter/Facebook pages.
Hills, Worcestershire. Squelch and
www.arleyarboretum.co.uk
Time: 9am to 5pm. Free entry.
splash your way around the Hills
Phone: 01905 760 738
on a wintery adventure walk. Finish
Thursday 18th
off toasting marshmallows around the campfire. No need to book, just
ZUMBA WORKSHOP FOR KIDS
turn up before 2pm. A National
The Courtyard, Edgar Street,
HALF TERM: TREASURE ISLAND
Trust Event - Start 11:00. End 15:00.
Hereford HR4 9JR. A high energy
We meet at Nimmings Wood car
and fun Zumba workshop with kid-
Avoncroft Museum, Stoke Heath,
park. For more details please
friendly routines. An opportunity to
Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 4JR.
phone: 01562 712 822 - Visitor
have a great dance style workout
All aboard, me hearties, for some
Experience Manager. www.
to popular music whilst also having
pirate fun at Avoncroft Museum!
nationaltrust.org.uk/events
loads of fun. Wear comfortable
Monday 15th Sunday 21st
term week. Dig for your very own
CHILDREN’S POTTERY SESSIONS – ‘Raining cats & dogs’
treasure and it’s all hands on deck for
Eastnor Pottery, Home Farm, Eastnor,
some crafty fun. Time: 11am – 4pm.
Ledbury, Herefordshire HR8 1RD
Normal Museum admission charges
Come and make clay cats & canines
Treasure Island for February half
Primary Times February Half Term 2016
15:00. £5 for first child, £4.50 per
clothing and bring a drink and a
The New Guesten Hall will be transformed into your very own
bread and marshmallows Available
snack. Time: 10am and 1pm. Cost: £10. www.courtyard.org.uk or call 01432 340555.
Thursday 18th – Saturday 20th
Children’s Half Term Pottery Sessions
‘Raining Cats & Dogs’ 17th Feb 2016
Book your space now!
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
13
R BABES IN THE WOOD Whitecross School, Three Elms Road, Hereford. Babes in the Wood, performed at Whitecross School, tells the story of everyday panto folk - Hansel and Gretel are sent deep into the dark forest to find a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow for their greedy mother. They meet all of the things you would expect in a forest… talking trees, a candy cottage owned by three witches, fairies and a champion chicken called Chirpy. A dotty dame, a lovey-dovey principal boy and girl, brilliant choreography, crowd-pleasing songs, colourful costumes and scenery will make this a great evening’s entertainment. The run will also be raising money for charity. Performances: 7.30pm daily, with a 2.30pm matinee on February 20th. Tickets: £7, concessions £5, family ticket £20. www.noda.org.uk
Friday 19th & Saturday 20th PANDEMONIUM IN PANTOLAND Areley Kings Village Hall, Areley Common, Stourport-on-Severn, Worcestershire DY13 0NB. Cinderella needs to escape her step-sisters, Red Riding Hood has some cake to deliver, Jack has a cow to sell, It’s a pantomime so it cannot be as simple as that! February: Fri 19th 7.30, Sat 20th 2.30 and 7.30, Fri 26th Feb 7.30, and, Sat 27th 2.30 and 7.30 For more details phone: 012999 871804 or tickets@akplayers. co.uk
Saturday 20th CHILDREN’S THEATRE Norbury Theatre, Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 8ED. Short mini Panto’s, with lots of audience participation, performed
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by adults especially for children aged
you are not a music ‘buff’ there will
3 years plus. Great for children to
be questions for everyone! Book a
look forward to on a regular basis
table early to avoid disappointment:
and they make a fun birthday treat!
Teams of 4, or buddy-up on the night.
Sunday 6th
Time: 14:30 to 15:10 Phone: 01905
Families welcome. Ticket includes the
MOTHER’S DAY CARD MAKING
770154 All Tickets: £1.50 www.
hot supper. You are not obliged to dress
Brockhampton Estate, Greenfields,
norburytheatre.co.uk
up, although it is fun to enter into the
Bringsty, Bromyard WR6 5TB. Craft
spirit of the event and come as your
activity, card making for Mother’s Day.
favourite musical hero or anti-hero. It’s
Be inspired by Brockhampton and craft
THE MIGHTY PRINCE and OTHER FABULOUS FABLES
worth bearing in mind that Extra Points
a card for mums. Why not treat her with
may well be awarded at the discretion
a whole day out in the rural tranquillity
Kingsland Coronation Hall, Kingsland,
of the judges if you do impress with
of Brockhampton, with delicious one
Nr Leominster, Herefordshire HR6
your inventive attire. Tickets are £8.
pot meals and snacks available from
9QS. Two performers, five stories
Email: LVH@LintonVillage.com
the Granary, miles of walking routes to
and a host of bugs, birds, animals
for more information or call
discover and 600 years of family life to
and magical creatures! Open
07585 663 138.
explore in the moated manor house?
Sunday 21st
MARCH
Normal admission applies. www.
Sky Productions bring to life two thousand year old stories using a
SINGALONGA FROZEN
happy mix of rhyme, movement,
Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester
live music, song and puppetry. And
WR1 3ED. A full screening of Disney’s
Thursday 10th
it’s funny too. Monkey tries to wind
Frozen with lyrics on screen to
CHORAL SCHOLAR EUCHARIST
up Buffalo. Pigeon saves Ant from
help you sing along during the film.
Hereford Cathedral, 5 College
disaster. Tortoise’s big mouth leads to
Introduced by a live host who will
Cloisters, Hereford HR1 2NG. An
a smelly fate. Little Hare scares Deer,
guide you through this interactive
opportunity to hear the music
Ox, Tiger and Elephant until Lion
screening by showing you how to use
scholars sing a four-part mass
steps in. And the Prince is indeed
your free prop bag, warm up your
in the Lady Chapel of Hereford
mighty but is he mightier than the
singing voices and teach you some
Cathedral. All welcome 12 noon.
Giant? Based on stories for children
dance moves with the help of the
For details of the Lent
told by the Buddha, each fable has
Singalonga Princesses. Watch as we
Lunch following the service
a simple moral for young hearts and
bring the film to life and help you
contact 01432 374261. www.
minds. An enchanting family show
experience this movie in a whole new
herefordcathedral.org
for ages 3+ The Might Prince runs
light. So get your little ones dressed up
for 45 minutes without an interval.
as their favourite character and come
Saturday 12th
Time: 2pm. Tickets at £5 are
and see Sing-a-Long-a Frozen where
LUCTON FOOD FESTIVAL
available from Kingsland
YOU the audience are the stars. Age
Lucton School, Lucton, Leominster,
Post Office or T 01568 709579
recommendation 5+. Time: 2.30pm
Herefordshire HR6 9PN. In its second
or www.artsalive.co.uk
Phone: 01905611427 Tickets: £15 child
year, the Lucton Food Festival is
£10, 2 adults & 2 children £46 www.
already showing signs of growth and
worcesterlive.co.uk/events
will showcase the wonderful and
Monday 22nd February - Saturday 12th March
nationaltrust.org.uk
varied food & drink suppliers from this
SONG OF THE SEA
beautiful part of the world. Stall holders
FROM GARDEN TO GARMENT
Much Birch Community Hall, Much
will offer scope for tastings and there
Birch, HR2 8HT. Based on the Irish
will demonstrations and workshops
Berrington Hall, Near Leominster
legend of the Selkies, it tells the
throughout the day. The basic
HR6 0DW. As spring begins to take
story of Saoirse, the last seal-child
admission fee will cover FREE access to
hold, visit Berrington to enjoy
who goes on an epic journey with
all demonstrations. The event will run
the bulbs in the Capability Brown
her brother Ben to save the world
from 10am to 5pm. Cost: Adults £5,
parkland and learn about the links
of magic and discover the secrets
Children free. Check out the website:
between the flowers in the garden
of their past. Pursued by owl witch
www.luctonfoodfestival.com
and some of the garments in the
Macha and ancient, mythical
Charles Paget Wade collection, some
creatures, Saoirse and Ben race
of which is housed at Berrington.
against time to awaken Saoirse’s
Friday 18th Sunday 20th
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
powers and stop the spirit world
SPRING STEAM GALA
from disappearing forever. Song
Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley DY12
of the Sea is a wonder of magical
1BG. Opening our 2016 season, a great
MUSIC NIGHT QUIZ
storytelling and visual splendour and
line-up of visiting locomotives supported
Linton Village Hall, Linton Near Ross on
destined to become a classic. Part
by members of the Severn Valley Railway
Wye, Herefordshire HR9 7RX. Come
of Borderlines Film Festival. Time:
home fleet. See the website for prices
and enjoy a light-hearted Popular Music
2.30pm Tickets: £4.50 adults, £3.50
but pre-book this event and save money.
Quiz and Hot Supper. Don’t worry if
children. www.artsalive.co.uk
www.svr.co.uk
Saturday 27th
Primary Times February Half Term 2016
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
15
Party Time! For Ages 4-11 • Sporty Parties • Dodgeball • Football
• Dance
• Tag Rugby
• Multisports
Parties can be themed e.g. Minions, Paddington, Minecraft, Adventure Time, Frozen
16
Primary Times February Half Term 2016 2015
Get Dressed Up! BBC Inflatables Is your child dressing up for this years’ world book day? Need to go to school in historical costumes, attending a costume party or just love dressing up?
If so The Ultimate Party Shop is a definite must offering the largest costume range in Worcestershire. It has a fantastic array of children’s costumes and accessories for you to create any outfit your child might need from favourite book characters like Fantastic Mr Fox or Little Red Riding hood to historical costumes from Romans to World War Evacuees as well as loveable
Disney Characters, Pirates, Animals and Superheroes!
Teachers and parents can also buy or hire full costumes or create their own with wigs, masks, make-up, weapons and accessories to get creative with. For memorable birthdays, fete appearances and charity days children’s favourite ‘Mascot Characters’ are also available for weekend hire at reasonable prices! www.ultimatepartyshop.com Worcester: 01905 745140 Cheltenham: 01242 254480
Organizing a children’s party can be quite daunting and here at BBC Inflatables we are well aware of the importance of everything being just right. With that in mind we go the extra mile to ensure we can offer you the very best inflatables, soft play and entertainment equipment and service. We never sit back on our laurels as Worcestershire’s premier inflatable hirer and are always adding new equipment to our already fabulous range.
Recent new additions include not one but two stunning superhero themed inflatables featuring lots of superheroes and villains. In addition we have a beautiful new Princess and Fairies bouncer and proving extremely popular is our awesome Ice Princess Bounce and Slide and soft play system.
For toddlers and under 5’s we have increased our soft play section with Create and Play plus Building Block Soft Play as well as adding lots of new toys to include ride ons, Thomas roller coaster and super cute animal skittles.
We are also very excited about our new Toddler Farm Play Barn. This super inflatable has fabulous artwork, it includes a bounce area, a ball pool section and the added excitement of a slide. Don’t just take our word for it, visit www.bbcinflatables. co.uk and prepare to be amazed. Planning an adult, teen or older child’s party? Please remember we have a huge selection of suitable equipment to include Rodeo Bulls, Rodeo Footballs, Obstacle Courses, Bungee Runs, Duels and the latest must have Photo Booths.
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
17
Theatre owS Family & Children’S Sh The Artrix Tel: 01527 577330 CHRIS & PUI SHOW Saturday 13th February. Chris & Pui are back with a brand new show! CBeebies’ favourite double act presents their new stage show with all the toys and characters from their hit TV programme ‘Show Me Show Me’. Catch the Gingerbread Man, marvel at the Ugly Duckling becoming a beautiful swan and oooh and aaaah as Miss Mouse attempts to zoom zoom ZOOM to the cheesy moon in her rocket. Incy Wincy, Twinkle, Old MacDonald, Humpty, Granny Humpty and many more of
masterpiece recreates a colourful cast of larger than life characters on stage. Presented in the style of Victorian music hall, with speciality acts and variety entertainments, Red Earth’s production brings Oliver’s story vividly to life for children and grown-ups. Seized by Fagin, saved by Brownlow, snatched back by Fagin and once again retrieved, this boy’s tale of suspense and dark deeds is
toys - Tom, Momo, Teddington, Stuffy and Miss Mouse. Bring your character toy along too but please look after it! With songs, comedy sketches, a dash of magic and heaps of joining in, this is a family show for children aged two to a hundred and two. Get a groovy move on and book today to see the freshest family show in town, ‘The Chris and Pui Show’. Time: 11am and 2pm. Tickets: £12 adult. £10 - under 16s & over 60s. £40 - Family ticket 2+2 or 1+3 www.chrisandpui.com
THE REMARKABLE TALE OF OLIVER TWIST
Road, Macbeth at MIF) as Rosalind.
make you want to stick 50ps to your
With her father the Duke banished
shoes and join in! For everyone aged
and in exile, Rosalind and her cousin
3 to 133. Time: 11am. Tickets: £6
Celia leave their lives in the court
ZARAFA (PG)
humour. Give your children a special gift – introduce them to the amazing world of Charles Dickens and his remarkable tale of Oliver Twist. Time: 2pm. Recommended 8+ years - Suitable 6+ years. Tickets: Adult
behind them and journey into the Forest of Arden. There, released from
Saturday 20th February. Set
convention, Rosalind experiences
in the 18th century this beautifully
the liberating rush of transformation.
animated tale is suitable for all ages.
Disguising herself as a boy, she
Escaping from a slave trader, Maki
embraces a different way of living and
befriends Zarafa, an orphan giraffe.
falls spectacularly in love. Time: 7pm.
When Zarafa is given to the King of
Tickets: £15 Conc. £13
France Maki is determined to rescue his best friend so they set out on a journey from Africa to Paris. They have
evesham arts
many exciting adventures on the way
Tel: 01386 446944
with hot-air balloons, nomads and encounters with Malaterre, the aviator,
THINK FLOYD
and the Pirate Queen Bouboulina.
Saturday 6th February. With
With its gorgeous hand-drawn
over 20 years’ experience recreating
animation this is an absolute delight!
the legendary sound of Pink Floyd
Time: 11am and 2.30pm. Tickets: £6
live on stage, Think Floyd embark on a sensational nationwide tour this
told with high spirits and great good
The conquest Tel: 01885 488575 PANTO – MAY THE FARCE BE WITH YOU
spring. The brand new production features The Dark Side of the Moon and Wish You Were Here - arguably two the most influential albums of all time. These masterpieces will be performed from start to finish, along
Friday 12th – Saturday 20th
with the whole range classic Pink
February. Conquest productions
Floyd from Syd Barrett through to
present a Panto based (very loosely!)
The Division Bell. Think Floyd take
on Jack and the Beanstalk, written by
enormous pride in recreating all the
Andrew Yates. The Lord of the Dark
atmosphere, visual magnitude and
Side plans Galactic Domination. To
musical excellence of Pink Floyd,
thwart his evil plans, heroic space-
live on stage and their production is
warrior Luke Warmwater sets off on
backed by a dedicated team of sound
Saturday 13th February. Gather
an inter-galactic mission to the other
and lighting engineers. The thrilling
round for the Moon’s magical,
side of the universe. Oh, yes he does!
concert atmosphere is enhanced
mystical story about a tippetty-
It’s panto, Jim, but not as you know
with an impressive laser light show,
top tap dancer who he has been
it. A delightful galaxy of characters,
together with the sheer energy of the
watching at night. Marina Skippett
including robots, Super Troopers, and
band, promises a first-class evening
creeps out of her house every
two (yes, two - count them!) love-
of pure Pink Floyd. It’s no wonder
night to shuffle and stomp on the
interest couples, float weightlessly
the band have long been regarded as
boardwalk to the sounds of the
through a madcap plot. Thrusting a
The Definitive Pink Floyd Experience!
sea. She can’t tap dance at home
flight-path via Planet Zog, a Giant’s
Time: 8pm. Tickets: £19.50
anymore since her evil, tractor-sized
house and the Dame’s garden, the
Aunty banned it, threatening to feed
cast defy gravity across a crowded
RAPUNZEL
Marina’s dinners to the dog! But
orbit of satellites and spaceships as
Saturday 27th February. From the Emmy Award-winning team behind
£7. Under 16’s £5
your favourite Chris & Pui characters will be dropping in, along with the
along to and tap dancing that will
The courtyard Tel: 01432 340555 THE TAP DANCING MERMAID
then, one moon-lit night, Marina
they rocket a trajectory through a jet-
Sunday 21st February. Based
meets a mysterious, watery boy
propelled show with a starry ending.
the mega-hit television series Friends
on the book by Charles Dickens
called Leo swimming in the sea and
It’s out of this world! Tickets: £10
comes Rapunzel, an exciting musical
a timeless adventure and a
her life is never the same again! The
under 16 £6
perfect for all the family! A familiar
mesmerizing story of childhood.
“truly amazing one woman power
Everyone has heard of the small
house” Tessa Bide is touring the UK
NT LIVE: AS YOU LIKE IT
boy who dares to ask for more, but
with her celebrated devised solo
Thursday 25th February.
minds that have been making the
do you know the original story of
production, called “just everything a
Shakespeare’s glorious comedy of love
world laugh non-stop for more than
Oliver Twist? Packed full of surprises
children’s theatre experience should
and change comes to the National
two decades. Following their visit
for a modern audience, Red Earth’s
be” (Childplays). There are stunning
Theatre for the first time in over 30
last Spring with Wind in the Willows,
adaptation of Charles Dickens’s
puppets, original live music to sing
years, with Rosalie Craig (London
Immersion Theatre are thrilled to
18
Primary Times February Half Term 2016
tale with a fantastic new spin, it has all the charm you’d expect from the
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
19
return with the UK Premiere of this
of the Russian State Ballet. Every
the Alice Otley and Old Elizabethans
witty, tongue-in-cheek retelling of
child’s favourite fairy tale, this
Association. Open Monday to
a perennial favourite. Featuring a
is the classic story of love and
Saturday, 10.00am – 4.00pm.
possessive mother who happens to be
innocence, mystery and magic set
Admission Free
a witch, a tentative young man who
to Tchaikovsky’s sublime score.
happens to be a prince and a strong-
Stunning choreography, sumptuous
OLIVER!
willed but naive young girl with the
costumes and wonderful sets form
Friday 19th & Saturday 20th
longest hair you’re ever likely to come
the fantasy world in which the
February. Pershore Operatic and
across! Alone with nothing but her hair
Lilac Fairy struggles against the evil
Dramatic Youth Section bring you
and her witch (literally) of a mother,
Caraboss. Time: 7.30pm Tickets:
Lionel Bart’s musical version of this
Rapunzel dreams of seeing the outside
£11.50 - £36.50
Dickens’s classic. Oliver leaves the
world - when a young prince and his
workhouse to find his Grandfather
before the Rapunzel & her Prince can
CHANDOS: FAMILY FUN CONCERT
have their happy-ever-after, they’re
Sunday 13th March. With a
and Nancy and an assortment of
going to have to face the witch’s wrath
young upcoming conductor and
low life characters from Victorian
and some hilarious obstacles in this
a BBC presenter this concert is
England. With its delightfully drawn
unique fairy tale! It certainly isn’t going
serious FUN! Chandos takes little
Dickensian characters and catchy
to be fairy-tale business as usual - so
listeners on a musical exploration
tunes, such as Food Glorious Food,
get TANGLED in this glittering gem
of some of the most exciting
Consider Yourself, Oom Pah Pah,
of theatrical goodness! Time: 16:30
orchestral music we could lay our
Where is Love? Oliver!, is a real feast
Tickets: £10.00 Full price and
hands on. A great selection of the
of entertainment. A perfect choice
£8.00 Conc
BBC 10 pieces and blockbustin’ film
for this very talented and award
music. There’s starry, scary, spooky,
winning youth group. “Please sir can
piratical, astronomical & downright
I have some more?” Time: Friday
phantasmagorical. What’s not to
19 February - 7.00pm; Saturday
like? Children – please come dressed
20 February - 1.30pm & 7.00pm.
as your favourite character from any
Tickets: £11 Matinee £9
trusty valet come across her tower. But
ludlowassemblyrooms Tel: 01584 873229 DINO SCRUNCH!
and is befriended by Dodger and meets Fagin and his gang, Bill
of the pieces of music. Mussorgsky
Tuesday 16th February. Get
Night on a Bald Mountain - John
creative with local artist Purvin
Adams Short Ride in a Fast Machine
norbury theatre
to help build a giant dinosaur
- Bernstein Symphonic Dances, West
sculpture made entirely of rolled
Side Story - Bach-Stokowski Toccata
Tel: 08444 771000
up newspaper. a chance for all of
& Fugue in D minor - Holst Mars &
the family to get stuck in, and the
Jupiter, The Planets Suite -Badelt
final construction will be put out on display! Time: 11am. Cost: £5
AN EVENING WITH DON MACLEAN Saturday 27th February. Don is a much admired Entertainer, and makes his first visit to the Norbury with his unique brand of humour. Don has generously offered to appear in this special show to support Mission Morogoro. Mission Morogoro is a locally based charity working to alleviate poverty in rural Tanzania. One of the best known comedians on TV and radio who claims to have left school with ‘7 ‘0’ levels, 2 spirit levels and a girl’s bike.’ Don has appeared in six Royal Command Shows, his recent 30th anniversary in show business was marked with an award from the Variety Club, and he was made an MBE in the 2001 New Year’s honours list. TV and radio have both played a major part in Don’s career from Crackerjack through Celebrity Squares to his current Radio 2 show Good Morning Sunday which he is still presenting after 15 years on the air. Time: 7:30pm Tickets £15
worcester live Tel: 01905 611427
Pirates of the Caribbean -John
NO REGRETS – THE LIFE STORY & SONGS OF EDITH PIAF
CHILDREN’S THEATRE ‘GRANNY’S ATTIC’
Williams Star Wars: The Phantom
Saturday 13th February. A
Menace. Bring all the family, no
celebration of the life story and songs
acted by adults provide fun, songs
matter what age, for a Chandos
of the iconic French chanteuse Edith
Friday 19th February. Sally Tonge
afternoon to remember. Time:
Piaf, who rose from the backstreets
is a trader in twaddle, a word wrangler
3pm Tickets: £12.32-£16.80,
of Paris to become the most highly
and a storymonger. She shares
children half price.
paid female entertainer of her time!
PLAYING WITH WORDS
songs, tales and taratiddles to delight
Not a typical tribute show, this
audiences of all ages and is a popular
stunning piece of theatre contains a
Number 8
Shropshire based storyteller. Come and
“beautifully crafted narration,” telling
Tel: 01386 555488
the fascinating story of the “Little charisma has inspired performers
there... and the places in between.
RGS Worcester GCSE Pupils – ‘Wet Paint II’
Time: 10.30am. Cost: £5
Thursday 11th February -
perfect blend of wonderful stories,
Wednesday 2nd March. This
fascinating facts, charming humour,
exhibition reflects the very diverse
moving moments and passionately
interests of the RGS students.
performed Piaf classics such as La Vie
Painting in oils these GCSE artists
En Rose, Milord, Mon Dieu and Non Je
use the medium of choice employed
Ne Regrette Rien (No Regrets)! Linder
by professional artists with its
Productions present internationally
Tuesday 9th February.
enhanced capabilities for colour,
acclaimed musical theatre actress Sally
Performed by The Russian State
mixing and application. The work has
Jones (Chicago, Evita, Les Miserables)
Ballet of Siberia and accompanied
been framed by the Bevere Gallery
in this critically acclaimed production.
by a live orchestra, The Orchestra
thanks to a generous donation by
Time: 7:30pm Tickets £12/£10
hear some arns, diffles with a riddle and giggle with songs as Sal shares oral bric a brac gathered from here and
malvern theatre Tel: 0845 287 2146 SLEEPING BEAUTY
20
Primary Times February Half Term 2016
Sparrow” who’s inimitable style and all over the world! The show is a
Saturday 6th February. Plays and audience participation for two-to-nine-year-olds. Dolly runs a fancy dress and properties shop. She may need your help to deal with three very difficult customers: Mr Willoughby and Mr and Mrs Garret. Time: 10.30am & 11.45 Tickets: £2.50 (Groups of 10 or more £2.25 per ticket, Under 2s free)
CHILDREN’S THEATRE ‘SPRING IS SPRUNG’ Saturday 5th March. Plays acted by adults provide fun, songs and audience participation for two-to-nineyear-olds. Can the Springtime Fairy and the Lollipop Lady stop Hector the Collector adding more butterflies to his collection and teach him to respect the life of the countryside? Time: 10.30 & 11.45am Tickets: £2.50 (Groups of 10 or more £2.25 per ticket, Under 2s free)
A Week at The Oscars! The paparazzi will be swarming around Kidderminster when the Museum of Carpet hosts its Week at the Oscars for half term! Visitors can expect star treatment when they step onto the red carpet as a fun-filled programme has been devised for the most demanding of stars! Running between Tuesday 16 February and Saturday 20 February, there will be two different craft activities taking place each day. These will include: ‘Make a Flip Book’ and ‘Create Your Own Movie Award’. Painting skills will be tested with the amazing workshop ‘Silhouette Paparazzi Painting’ where visitors will get the chance to create a colourful image of themselves. And that’s not all, they could even nominate themselves for a prize in the activity ‘Create your own Movie Award’. There’s also plenty of hands-on activities, such as ‘Make a Red Carpet Scene’, which will feature real red carpet. And for those who aren’t as crafty, there’s the chance to have a go at the movie themed trail that will wind its way all around the Museum. Each of these sessions costs just £3.00 and includes a tour of the Museum as well.
But if you think you’re a star in the making, then why not come along on the special Red Letter Day taking place on Friday 19 February. Here visitors will get the chance to dress up and strut their stuff on the red carpet and pose for a photo. Don’t worry this is not just available to little stars, it’s also open to mums and dads as well! Activities on this jampacked fun day include ‘Create your own Walk of Fame star’ and everyone will be given the chance to make a film strip. But the fun doesn’t end there as in the morning, everyone can settle in with popcorn and a drink and enjoy an Oscar nominated children’s movie. Tickets for this star studded day are £6.50 which includes
entry to the Museum. Activities will run from 10.30am – 3.30pm and the movie starts at 11.30am and lasts for approx. 95mins. Located in an old mill building, staff want to show visitors that a day at the Museum of Carpet is a star studded occasion worthy of an Oscar. Visitors get the chance to watch a demonstration using the Jacquard Wilton and the Axminster Spool looms whilst volunteers operate hand looms showing people the earliest routes of carpet making. In other galleries, life-sized figures share the master’s and spinner’s stories; revealing what life was really like for those who worked in the carpet mills. A computer generated game allows visitors to design their own patterns as this miraculously appears on the museum floor before their very eyes. So, with a host of have-a-go exhibits and hands-on activities, the Museum of Carpet is packed with things to see and do. n
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
21
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Primary Times February Half Term 2016
FAMILY MARKETPLACE ASSESSMENTS
CHILDCARE
DANCE & DRAMA
Crescents Ballet School
Principal: Ms Jane Chance L.R.A.D., A.I.S.T.D. (M.D.)
Ballet, Modern, Tap and Acrobatic Dance for all ages at:
Crescents Dance Studios, Sherriff Street, Worcester, WR4 9AB Classes also in Droitwich Methodist Church Hall For more information call
07971 902 952 or 01905 724614
www.crescentsballetschool.co.uk
DAYS OUT
TUITION BSc (Hons), PGCE, MEd (Ed Psych)
Educational Psychologist (Chartered by the BPS)
Independent assessment and advice for all special needs including dyslexia, dyspraxia, autism and attention problems. 16 seat minibuses to 78 seat double deckers including our new 63 seat coaches, all ranging from standards to executives. Contact: 01905 820 201 or info@astons-coaches.co.uk www.astons-coaches.co.uk
Tel: 07853 248311 www.toniapeterspsychologist-herefordshire.co.uk
Grafton Psychology Associates Limited trading as Tonia Peters. Company Registration Number: 7853233. Registered in England and Wales
DANCE & DRAMA