Primary Times in Surrey FEBRUARY HALF TERM 2018

e e fr

E UID G ON S ’ T A WH

for parents, teachers and children

in Surrey

February Half Term 2018

5th February - 12th March

24 & 3 s e g a p ion See informat for more

Plus

Education, In The Swim, Roundabout, Pinboard, Theatre and much more!

Education

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Bookstore In Surrey Second Floor, Richardson House, 21/24 New St, Worcester. WR1 2DP. Tel: 01905 723011 Fax: 01905 780103 Publishing Editor: Dawn Pardoe - 01905 727909 Design and Production: Paul Blyth Sales & PR” Suzie Scott - 01905 727904 Jo Williams - 01905 727903 Primary Times is independently published and distributed free through Infant and Junior Schools throughout Surrey. 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 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

Specialising in Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Musical Theatre & Cheerleading For ages 2.5 to adults Mid-week and Weekend classes available

Free Trial Class Principal - Miss Sally Wyatt A.I.S.T.D

T: 07786 061 349 / 07884 006 743 E: caterhamperformingarts@outlook.com

www.caterhamperformingarts.co.uk

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February Reading ..........................................................................................

Roundabout

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What’s On ..........................................................................................

It’s Party Time!

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Pinboard 24 ..........................................................................................

In The Swim

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Theatre 28 Who’s Treading The Boards? ..........................................................................................

Bell Farm Primary School We are pleased to announce that from September 2018 Bell Farm Nursery “Little Bluebells” will be offering 30-hour nursery places as well as the current universal 15hour nursery places.

child, supporting them in their learning journey, ensuring they are provided with planned and fun-filled learning activities which will see them progress socially, emotionally and intellectually.

Our fabulous purpose built facilities provide an environment where children can have fun whilst building core skills in communication and language, literacy and maths. Little Bluebells is recognised by Ofsted as being ‘very effective in giving these youngest children a flying start’

The 30-hour places will be available to those who qualify for the additional hours funding, but will also be available to those who don’t for a small hourly top up rate.

Little Bluebells works in partnership with parents to the meet the individual needs of every

We’d like to invite you to experience ‘Little Bluebells’. Come and see how much fun your little ones could have while learning!

Please contact the school office on 01932 224009 to book a place for you and your child to meet us. n

Come and meet us

We’d like to invite you to experience ‘Little Bluebells’. Come and see how much fun your little ones could have while learning!

Please contact the school office to book a place for you and your child to meet us on one of our informal Friday tours, which take place at 10:30am and 1:30pm. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Hersham Road, Hersham, Surrey, KT12 5NB Tel: 01932 224009 • www.bell-farm.co.uk

Developing potential for life St. Andrew’s School was founded in 1937 and is a respected and thriving co-educational Prep School, set in 11 acres of grounds near Woking town centre. The School seeks to create a nurturing and happy environment in which all pupils are encouraged and enabled to develop their potential to the full.

At St. Andrew’s children feel secure and confident and are highly motivated to perform to the best of their ability in all aspects of school life. Children are prepared for entrance and scholarship exams to a wide range of independent senior schools and there are specialist teaching facilities for all subjects including science, ICT, music and art. The curriculum is broad and the school places great emphasis on music, sport and the arts. In our latest ISI Inspection, (January 2016), we were extremely proud to be rated ‘excellent’ in all areas.

St. Andrew’s has excellent on-site facilities including an all weather sports surface, sports pitches, tennis courts, cricket nets and a swimming pool. Children can be supervised at school from 8am and, through our extensive after-school activities programme for Year 3 and above, until 6/6.30 pm most evenings during the week. An after-school club is also available from 4pm to 6pm for Pre-Prep, Year 3 and Year 4 children.

Don’t take our word for it! Come to our next open morning and have a guided tour by one of our senior pupils.

See our advertisement for more details or visit our website: www.st-andrews.woking.sch.uk n

Calling all

budding writers!

WICKED, the award-winning West End

musical that tells the incredible untold story of the witches of Oz, together with the National Literacy Trust, has announced the eighth year of the prestigious WICKED Young Writer Awards.

The closing date is 12 March so enter as soon as you can! Details can be found at www.WickedYoungWriterAwards.com. As in previous years, entrants can enter one of five different age categories; 5-7yrs, 8-10yrs, 11-14yrs, 15-17yrs and 18-25 yrs. Pieces of original writing can be

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Primary Times February Half Term 2018

submitted, either individually or as part of a school group, until 12 March.

The overall winners from each category will win a VIP family experience to the West End production of WICKED, including an exclusive backstage tour, £50 book/eBook tokens, the 5-7yrs, 8-11yrs and 11-14yrs categories will win £100 worth of books for their school library donated by Hachette Children’s Books. In addition the 5-7 age category winners will receive a creative writing workshop for their class. The three

schools with the highest number of entries will receive a bespoke writing workshop at their respective schools.

All finalists’ entries will be printed in the WICKED Young Writer Awards anthology.

The WICKED Young Writer Awards raises money for the National Literacy Trust, who campaign to improve public understanding of the vital importance of literacy. Exclusive teachers’ resources can be found online including tips for inspiring and encouraging writing in the classroom. n

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

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A Leading IAPS Co-educational

Nursery, Pre-Preparatory &

Preparatory School

Hoe Bridge School is set in a perfect location on the outskirts of Woking surrounded by 22 acres of beautiful grounds and is only 25 minutes from London. The school was last inspected in October 2014 achieving a grade of ‘excellent’, something that both the girls and boys and staff are extremely proud of.

At the heart of Hoe Bridge stands the stunning 17th century mansion, Hoe Place.

The School has undertaken several major building projects to further enhance the facilities. The Pre-Prep department has been completely rebuilt to create more space and light for the younger children and the Nursery offers busy parents the option of five full days.

Alongside the academics sport, music, art and drama play a major part throughout the school and the girls and boys

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excel in them all. Scholarships in all these areas are won every year to a variety of senior schools.

The atmosphere of every school is unique and we consider the strength and attraction of Hoe Bridge to lie in the atmosphere here.

Standards and targets are realistic, though set as high as possible, the bright are challenged and the less able supported; we endeavour to instil confidence in all our children. Visitors are amazed how happy the children are, how determined they are to succeed and how much they care about each other.

The School has an extremely good reputation and is constantly striving to preserve the family atmosphere, improve results and explore all possibilities for enriching both the School and the lives of the children. n

Primary Times February Half Term 2018

Explore Learning is what I call education in heaven

We’re proud to share our member’s experience at Explore Learning over his 4 years at one of our maths and English tuition centres in Urmston, here is Aysin’s journey…

“Explore Learning is what I call education in heaven. The best place to learn new things and improve on things you already know. Similarly, school is the same but the only difference is Explore Learning helps you learn and perfect what you have learned in school.

The staff are kind and do their job extremely well. They are honestly the most helpful people you can find. I would definitely recommend anyone join because it is fantastic to come here and everyone who is still in school deserves to join too.

Furthermore, the chemistry between the Explore Learning team is excellent. Like a football team they work together and I have never seen any signs of negativity to one another, or even to members whether they are young, old, big or small.

Explore Learning to me is like a home. A home in which you are welcome. Looking into the screens seems like my future is getting charged up and getting ready for me to explore. Each tutor more helpful than the other. I feel that a part of me has attached here. This place always had a calm atmosphere and makes me happier than ever.

The work I do puts me closer and closer to my goals. Explore Learning can definitely help you achieve things you may have thought was unachievable. Ever since then I knew nothing is impossible and believe to always have limits to be limitless. When I grow up, and so do my fellow peers in this centre, we will look back to what a lovely past I have had and know that Explore Learning was indeed one of the best things that possibly could have happened.”

We’re 100% confident you’ll love it too so why not see for yourself? Call 033 0124 3801 to book your free trial one of your local centres. Alternatively visit explorelearning.co.uk. n

Not Ready For Senior School at 11?

Why Prep School Could be Right for Your Child

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hanging schools at the end of Year 6 can be a difficult time for many children. Developing at different rates a one-size fits all approach can mean some are forced to make a big change before they are ready. Tim Lewis, Deputy Head at Hall Grove School explains the benefits of prep school education beyond 11 years old.

For us, the strong family ethos of our school is firmly embedded at the centre of everything we do. Hall Grove was set up by the Graham family and opened its doors in January 1957 so the school have just completed a year of 60th birthday celebrations. Alastair Graham, the son of the founders, is the current Headmaster and proprietor. Having seen his own four children through the school, he well understands the pressure on modern parents.

We work hard to ensure our school breeds happy, confident and successful children and we are immensely proud of our reputation in the local area as a caring school that places the child

firmly at the centre of their learning. Put simply, they are allowed to be children for a bit longer and in the current global environment, we believe that is very important.

At the top of the school, Years 7 and 8 follow a rigorous syllabus which stretches them well beyond work covered by their state school counterparts, all within a supportive environment where they can grow and develop at their own pace. French, Latin and Greek are all options, and children are taught by subject specialist teachers, who have energy, drive and above all passion for their subjects.

We foster in our pupils the essential characteristics of leadership and contribution to the community, drawing on an enormous range of extracurricular opportunities. Service plays an integral part of the top two years, with children taking on leadership roles in a variety of ways. There are the more obvious, such as captaining the football or netball team, performing a leading

role on stage, singing in the Choristers, playing in the Concert Band or hearing younger children read. The Business Enterprise Contest introduces teams of Year 8 children to the rigors of running their own companies, as they are pitted against one another to design, produce and sell products at the school’s annual Country Fair, all in the name of charity.

For the majority of our current parental body of over 300, a first impression of Hall Grove will have been formed on a tour with one of our senior pupils during an Open Morning. The feed-back is universally positive, even from those who have been enthusiastically led, in sometimes less than appropriate attire, down to our spacious Outdoor Classroom or over to see the ponies on our beautiful 40 acre campus.

Former pupils, parents and staff all agree – the top two years at prep school really are special. Come and see what Hall Grove could offer your child at our next open day on Thursday 15th March. n

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

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FELTONFLEET SCHOOL

Feltonfleet is a community where ‘individuals really matter’ and where academic excellence and enjoyment of childhood go hand in hand.

Our nurturing, values driven community, with a strong sense of family, allows children to discover their gifts and grow in self-confidence, independence and compassion.

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Primary Times February Half Term 2018

The combination of talented, dedicated staff, an inspiring curriculum, small class sizes and 25 acres with exceptional facilities encourages children to use their imagination, explore and strive to excel.

Pupils usually join in Nursery (aged 3), Year 3 or Year 7, although applications at other ages are considered depending on availability. We look for potential rather

than prior attainment and welcome pupils whatever their background. We seek bright, engaged pupils with an enthusiasm for learning – children who will enjoy contributing to all areas of Feltonfleet life.

Feltonfleet aims to be as accessible as possible to pupils whose parents could not otherwise afford to meet the full cost of fees by offering means-tested bursaries. n

LINGFIELD COLLEGE

As an experienced Early Years practitioner I recognise the great importance of the first steps that children take on their path to learning.

The formative years in the Foundation Stage provide the base for the challenges of Year 1. The significance of the choice parents must make in selecting a school is vital to ensure their children have the best opportunity available.

It is my strong belief that the outstanding results we achieve within the Foundation Stage are as a result of the dedicated work of our fantastic and highly motivated team. Our staff work tirelessly to ensure that we provide a safe, warm and caring environment in which our children can learn and develop. The marvellous facilities that we enjoy at the School, coupled with the happy and friendly environment make our setting a

wonderful place for children to flourish. It is also why such a number of our fantastic team have been with us for many years.

We welcome the opportunity to show you our wonderful Nursery and Prep School. Come along to our open day and see what makes Lingfield College Prep the right choice for your child. n Mrs Dawn Wild Foundation Stage Leader

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

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Primary Times February Half Term 2018

LUMEN LEARNING TRUST “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”

Albert Einstein In 1998, Ben Hunt-Davis and his team rowed to Olympic gold medal victory in the Men’s Rowing Eight, but this monumental achievement was the result of years of preparation. Everything the team did to prepare was driven by the one question “will this make the boat go faster?” - if it didn’t, it was dropped.

Imagine a school driven by a similar intention - with “will this enable our children to succeed?” driving all decisions. It would pervade everything that occurs at school, like investing in parental support to help families overcome challenges that might be presenting a barrier to their child’s success.

It would consider how information is shared to make communities central to their schools, to ensure their provision reflected and respected the communities they served.

It would guide training and investment in staff, ensuring that the adults who work with the children are skilled and aspirational

about ensuring the achievement of every single child in their care, not just the ones who will naturally enjoy success.

Now imagine a School Trust where this same vision is played out at the schools it runs - where collaboration among staff is rife, where good ideas are shared and built upon, where decisions are made thoughtfully yet change happens rapidly, where it is the absolute aim to enable every child to succeed and to lay the foundations of their future success as an adult.

This is the driving force behind the Lumen Learning Trust. Established in 2013, it is unashamedly Primary-focussed, and has seen three schools so far transformed in many ways beyond just the results that often form the summary viewpoint of a school. Yes, results have improved, but so has attendance, investment in the buildings, courtesy and curiosity among the children.

Set in very different buildings and surroundings in Shepperton, Ashford and Staines-Upon-Thames, the core offering is the same - an exciting, enriching curriculum,

which inspires and challenges all staff and children. New and existing spaces are transformed into active learning environments, staff are reflective and proactive in ensuring the children are empowered to ask ‘why’ more often, and the level of personal and academic success our children achieve has to be seen to be believed.

Now more than ever it is important as a parent to look at how SATS results are achieved. But is this achieved through relentless paper practice and the abandonment of the wider, rich curriculum; or is it through careful and thoughtful investment in the curriculum, inspirational working spaces and the thorough professionalism and dedication of the staff?

We believe it is the latter.

You are more than welcome to visit any one of our schools, and see how our commitment to thinking differently and doing differently enables our allows the children to flourish. n www.lumenlearningtrust.co.uk

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

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Primary Times February Half Term 2018

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

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Primary Times February Half Term 2018

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

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hat’s On an

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Crowhurst Lane, Crowhurst, Lingfield RH7 6LR. Thought to be 4,000 years old, possibly making it the oldest yew tree in the country. The trunk is hollow with a wooden door in it, placed there sometime after 1820.

Located close to St Georges’ Church in Crowhurst. The Yew is in need of a little support and has the help of a few wooden supports. In 1820 the villagers of Crowhust hollowed out the bole of the tree. Open all year round – free to visit.

GUILDFORD MUSEUM Castle Arch, Quarry Street, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 3SX. The largest collection of archaeology, local history and needlework in Surrey. Displays include local characters such as Lewis Carroll and Gertrude Jekyll. Guildford museum is a beautiful 17th century building next to the castle grounds.

The archaeology shows life in Surrey from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. Our local history gallery displays Guildford crafts and industries, together with sections on Lewis Carroll and Gertrude Jekyll. Special exhibitions and events run throughout the year and there

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THE ANCIENT YEW TREE – CROWHURST YEW

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Throughout the year

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FEBRUARY

Yo ur

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ut o b a

are quizzes and an art corner for children. Free entry.

See website for opening times.

Telephone: 01483 444750. www.guildford.gov.uk/museum

Monday – Sunday Throughout Spring PRIORY FARM DISCOVERY WALK

Priory Farm, Sandy Lane, South Nutfield, Redhill RH1 4EJ. Monday - Saturday 9.30am - 4.30pm. Sunday - 10.30am – 4.30pm. Set deep in beautiful Surrey countryside, Priory Farm has been owned by the Shinner family since 1957. It has changed a lot since those early days, and is now a much-loved destination for food lovers and families. The Farm Shop has been recently transformed with its hand-crafted timber entrance and new display areas, while The Discovery Walk is the place to have lots of fun enjoying the simple pleasures in life - with fresh air thrown in for free! The children’s nature trail will keep the youngsters happy as they rush from clue to clue while grown-ups take in the splendid views - and learn a thing or two about nature along the way.

Primary Times February Half Term 2018

Friday 9th

SIX WEEK FAMILY HISTORY COURSE Surrey History Centre, 130 Goldsworth Road, Woking GU21 6ND. Run by professional genealogists and archivists this 6 week course will cover all you need to know to enhance your research as well as providing many tips of the trade. Cost: £80 for full course. Book online.

Saturday 10th FAMILY DAY

G-Live, London Road, Guildford GU1 2AA. Inspired by our visiting show Glisten, we are holding a special baby-friendly family day.

Bring you baby for hands on arts activities in our foyer spaces.

Sessions run 10am-12 noon and 1pm-3pm. All are welcome to attend our free family events.

BOOK SWAP Orange Tree Theatre, 1 Clarence Street, Richmond TW9 2SA Time: 3pm – 5pm. If you love reading, come along with books you no longer want and swap them for new ones! As part of London Children’s book swap we’ll be hosting a fun afternoon in our rehearsal rooms. There’ll be arty activities, a book related challenge and plenty of sweet treats to tempt you too! Free event.

Saturday 10th Sunday 18th THE BRITISH WILDLIFE CENTRE

Eastbourne Road, Newchapel, Lingfield RH7 6LF. The British Wildlife Centre in the heart of the East Surrey countryside is home to the finest collection of native species in the country, where you will see and learn about Britain’s own wonderful wildlife, with over forty different species on display. Here you’ll

view rarely seen species such as otters, Scottish wildcats and pine martens, as well as foxes, deer and beautiful free-flying British owls. View elusive night creatures in the Nocturnal House and badgers in their underground sett. The Centre has the Britain’s first Walkthrough Red Squirrel Enclosure, allowing you to walk among the squirrels in their own copse.

Regular keeper talks give you the chance to learn more about these animals and the challenges they face in the wild, while seeing them even closer while they are being fed. Tickets: Adult £11.50, Child 3 – 15 £8.50

HALF-TERM FUN: ‘MUD & MACHINES’ RHS Garden Wisley, Woking GU23 6QB. 10.30am - 3.30pm. Magical events for messy kids include seed bombs, mud snails, puddle jumping, sand pictures, pedal tractors and a special machine photo opportunity. All details on the Wisley website. Tickets: Garden entry starts at £7.25, free for under 5s and members.

FEBRUARY HALF TERM Ham House and Garden, Ham Street, Richmond-upon-Thames, London TW107RS. 10am – 4pm.

Visit Ham House this February half term and learn about the private lives of the Duke and Duchess with a variety of fun for all the family. We have the ‘Ham Unlocked’ quiz, which takes you around the house and garden answering questions and completing activities. Each trail costs £2 with a fluorescent badge reward. Below Stairs we will have a FREE art activity.

Admission charges apply £12.20 Adult, £30.50 Family.

Monday 12th

POTTERY THROWING Grayshott Pottery, School Road, Grayshott, Hindhead GU26 6LR. Join us in the school holidays for

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

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R a fun lesson on how to throw your very own piece of pottery on a traditional potter’s wheel.

Adults & children welcome. Cost: £15 per person.

FANTASTIC FORESTS CRAFT CLUB Alice Holt Forest, Buck’s Horn Oak, Farnham GU10 4LS. 10am – 3pm.

Join Groundwork in the magical surroundings of Alice Holt Forest for a craft club with a difference!

We combine guided outdoor exploration and games around the forest with indoor seasonal craft sessions using our gathered natural materials. As a result, your child will learn about nature and wildlife, as well as creating some beautiful and unique crafts to take home at the end of the day.

Crafts may include, for example: woven willow ornaments, pinecone animals, dream catchers, bark rubbings, leaf collages and handmade ‘nature books’. Tickets: £20. Tel: 07736 132 692

Monday 12th – Friday 16th

FEBRUARY HALF TERM FAMILY FUN Brooklands Museum, Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN. 10am - 4pm. Take a trip in a vintage-style car up Test Hill and along the Banking of the Race Track, try out our Family Workshop ‘Plane in the Clouds’ and step aboard Concorde on our fun-filled Kids Tours. Tickets: Normal Museum Admission Charges Apply: Adults £13.50, Seniors & Students £11.50, Family (2 adults and up to 3 children) £35, Children (5-16) £7

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HALF-TERM WORKSHOPS G-Live, London Road, Guildford GU1 2AA. Join us for a whole range of activities for children during the half-term holidays.

All our half-term activities are fully inclusive and accessible and we welcome people of all abilities. Kids’ lunchboxes and a kids’ menu will be available at the G Live café too (open 10am4pm)! This year, our half-term workshops will start on Monday and the programme includes Creative Orchestra, Marvellous Magic, and Creative Writing.

There will also be a delicious adventure for the whole family in our Studio, in the form of The Gingerbread Man!

PENGUIN ACTIVITY in HALF TERM Birdworld, Holt Pound, Farnham GU10 4LD. Feeding at 11am & 3.30pm. Take part in some penguin themed arts and crafts and complete our penguin trail around the park. Learn more about our penguins as you watch the keepers feeding them at 11am & 3.30pm! Please visit the website for further details.

Tuesday 13th

BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL G Live, Guildford GU1 2AA. 7.30pm – 11pm. Experience an extraordinary collection of short films from the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival. Follow the expeditions of some of today’s most incredible adventurers, see amazing footage of adrenaline packed action sports and be inspired by thought-provoking pieces shot from the far flung corners of the globe. Tickets: £17, conc. £15.

FANTASTIC FLAGS Haslemere Museum, 78 High Street, Haslemere GU27 2LA. 10.30am – 1pm. Come along to this family drop in event at the

Primary Times February Half Term 2018

Museum and enjoy a fun-filled morning. Discover more about the variety of flags from around the world and then get handson and create your very own flag. Family Memberships are available and include generous discounts on workshops and events, 10% discount on all purchases in the shop, and much more. Tickets: Museum Members £2 per child, Non Members £4 per child. No need to book.

Tuesday 13th – Thursday 15th

WILD WOODLAND CAMP Painshill, Portsmouth Road, Cobham, KT11 1JE. 9am – 4pm.

Children can have a wild time in half-term with campfires, bushcraft, wild art, den building activities… and much more!

Our Wild Woodland Camp is the perfect way to ensure the children have a fun-filled halfterm break! For children aged 8 to 13 years. Advance booking required. Tickets: £40 per day

POTTERY PAINTING Grayshott Pottery, School Road, Grayshott, Hindhead GU26 6LR. 10am – 4pm. Join us at our school holiday pottery painting workshops, where you can paint a piece that we’ll fire for you in one our kilns. Adults & children welcome. Prices start from £4.50 per item.

themed greetings card, and celebrate the wildlife and places you love. EARTH HOUR WISHING WANDS - Thursday 15 February, sessions from 10.30am. Get ready for Earth Hour! Create a beautiful wishing wand with your powerful promise to make a change and protect our planet.

Book online at wwf.org.uk/ whatson or speak to the team.

Sessions last 45 minutes and are suitable for those aged 4+.

Tickets: Free, suggested donation of £3 per person

Tuesday 13th – Saturday 17th

WET AND WINDY Free Half Term Activities Surrey History Centre, 130 Goldsworth Road, Woking GU21 6ND. 9.30am – 4pm. Discover the ways we have used wind and water for energy throughout the years with our free arts and crafts family drop in activities.

Ages 3-11. Free during normal opening hours (see website)

Wednesday 14th World war II – A CHILDREN’S WAR

Bourne Hall Museum Kids Club, Spring Street, Ewell KT17 1UF. 2pm – 3.30pm. Be prepared with gas mask training and air raid drill, learn what happened after a bomb. Tickets: £5 per child

FEBRUARY HALF TERM

TORCHLIGHT TOUR – VALENTINE’S DAY SPECIAL

WWF UK Living Planet Centre, Brewery Road, Woking GU21 4LL. 10am – 12 noon. Join us this February half term and get involved in some fun workshops we have taking place. SHOW THE LOVE GREEN HEART CARDS on Tuesday 13 February, sessions from 10.30am. During February people across the country will use green hearts to Show the Love for all the things affected by climate change. Join us to make a beautiful green heart

Brooklands Museum, Brooklands Road, Weybridge KT13 0QN. 6pm - 9.30pm. Join us for a behind-the-scenes tour round the Museum after dark on Valentine’s Day. Your guide will show you the darker side of the Museum and unearth some of its eerie past by torchlight!

Adult tickets for this Valentine’s Day Special include a 2 course meal, with tea or coffee (a small bottle of wine may be purchased for an extra charge). Tickets for

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

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R children include a main meal and a dessert. Tickets must be booked in advance, to pre-book use the contact details. Not suitable for children under 12 yrs. Dinner is at 6.30pm, the tour commences at 7.30pm and finishes at approximately 9:30pm. Please wear sensible shoes, warm clothing and bring your own torch. Donna Hopton 01932 857381 ext 253 events@brooklandsmuseum.com

XPLORER Chertsey Road, Addlestone KT15 2EW. 10am – 12 noon. Explore the park, find the markers, complete the challenge and have fun together. Free event

Wednesday 14th & Thursday 15th

HOLIDAY DROP-IN DAYS: ANIMAL ANTICS! Museum of Farnham, 38 West Street, Farnham GU97DX. 10.30am – 3.30pm. Come and join us this February half-term for some amazing animal art with our ‘Animal Antics’ inspired arts and crafts. Please drop in any time on Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th February, 10.30am-12.30am or 1.30pm3.30pm. All materials included.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please note that you may have to wait if the Garden Gallery is full. For ages 3-7. Cost: £3 per child, per session.

Thursday 15th

DISCOVER SURREY TOUR The Lightbox Gallery & Museum, Chobham Road, Woking GU21

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4AA. 10.30am – 4.15pm.

Brooklands Museum is an independent charitable trust, established in 1987, whose aim is to conserve, protect and interpret the unique heritage of the Brooklands site. Experience a different side of The Lightbox, take a tour of our Woking’s Story exhibition, learn about the History of Woking from the introduction of the railway to modern day, and see this historic town in a new light. Followed by a buffet lunch in our Ambassador Room where you can enjoy scenic views of Woking and the Basingstoke canal. After lunch you will depart for Brooklands museum, where you will receive a guided tour of the facility and their historic collection, after the tour there will be an opportunity to roam the site and find lots of hidden treasures before returning to The Lightbox.

Tickets: £45 Adults

Friday 16th

SURREY SCORCHERS V MANCHESTER GIANTS Surrey Sports Park, Richard Meyjes Road, Guildford GU2 7AD. 6.30pm – 9.30pm. A fun event for all the family, enjoy watching Surrey’s very own basketball team, Surrey Scorchers, as they battle it out in the UK’s top league! Tickets: Standard adult from £11

Friday 23rd

DISCOVERING OBJECTS Museum of Farnham, 8 West Street, Farnham GU97DX. 2pm – 4pm. From mammoths tusks to children’s games: The Museum of Farnham cares for hundreds of objects behind the scenes.

Join us for a unique opportunity to handle some of these objects and learn more about them from our knowledgeable volunteers.

Suitable for ages 5+. Please drop in any time between 2pm-4pm.

Free entry.

Primary Times February Half Term 2018

Saturday 24th

Sunday 11th

Lingfield Park Resort, Racecourse Road, Lingfield RH7 6PQ. 11.30am – 5pm. The Winter Derby is a group 3 Flat Horse Race in Great Britain open to horses aged 4 years or over. This consists of 7 races plus hospitality packages are also available. Whilst you don’t have to book in advance, doing so will save money on the gate price on the race day, which will be £26 per adult (over 18). Plus, there are added value admission & restaurant packages to choose from that are not available on the turnstiles on race day.

Pine Ridge Golf Club, Old Bisley Road, Frimley, Camberley GU16 9NX. 12noon – 6pm. Pine Ridge will host a Mother’s Day Lunch with a 4 course lunch, live acoustic music and a gift for all mums, it is perfect for small and large groups. Cost: £28 – Adult, £12 - children.

WINTER DERBY RACEDAY

MARCH Friday 9th

MOTHERS DAY PRESSIES AND PAMPERING Gorse Hill, Hook Heath, Woking GU22 0Q. 7pm -10pm. Save the date for this shopping experience.

A first time mother’s day event organised for the local mothers in our community to have an evening of being spoilt. Enjoy a glass of Prosecco while you shop. Lots of stallholders. Gifts available: flowers, handbags and scarves, jewellery, chocolates, skincare and lots more. We will also have a hairstylist, makeup artist and beautician that gives you the chance to pamper and spoil yourself. Free event.

Saturday 10th

HERALD OF SPRING Bourne Hall, Market Place, Ewell KT17 1UF. This year’s theme is Mother Nature. Learn about local green and natural organisations, local open spaces and see the flower displays, buy locally produced honey. Meet the Born Free charity. Children activities and games. Learn about Ewell’s spring and its Roman Gods.

Children’s Scarecrow competition.

Visit the Epsom and Ewell Mother’s Day Market for your Mother’s Day gifts. Free event.

MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH & OUTDOOR VINEYARD TOUR Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking RH5 6AA. 9.30am – 12 noon. Brunch in the panoramic third floor Gallery Restaurant followed by the outdoor vineyard tour with a glass of sparkling wine. Brunch at 9.30am followed by the 11am Vineyard Tour. Cost: £29.50 per person, Children under 12 years £12.00

Friday 16th

ST PATRICK’S RACE DAY Lingfield Park Resort, Racecourse Road, Lingfield RH7 6PQ. Join us as we celebrate all things Celtic!

Come to watch our 7 races, then stay for the live Irish music and dancers. Or just pop by to watch The Gold Cup live on our big screen — just don’t forget to bring your lucky 4-leafed clover for the betting! Tickets start at £26, however hospitality packages can be arranged.

Over 60’s & students receive an exclusive discount.

Saturday 17th

GEORGE ABBOTT BIG BAND - JAZZ at LUNCHTIME Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Guildford GU1 3JH. 12noon. A set of classic big band music from the talented young musicians of the George Abbot School Big Band, directed

by Atalia Fuller. Tickets: Adult £12, Friends of GSMF £11.00, Unemployed: £6.00, Students free if accompanied by a paying adult.

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

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Primary Times February Half Term 2018

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

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Clock In to Half Term Fun at Brooklands!

12th - 16th February 2018 However, if visitors really want to feel the wind through their hair, the Museum’s longestablished and hugely popular rides in vintagestyle cars* and on London Bus Museum’s iconic double-decker buses* will also be operating during weekdays in Half Term. Car rides take in the challenging summit of Test Hill and the Members’ Banking, the steepest part of the original Race Track, as long as it’s not too wet or slippery, from 11am–1pm and again from 2 – 3.30pm. London Bus Museum’s double-decker bus trips will run every half an hour from 11am until 3.30pm, except for a short break over lunchtime.

The Sunbeam Café is the ideal place for refuelling and add to this a visit to the Museum Shop to pick up a souvenir and you have the recipe for a perfect day out come rain or shine. And don’t forget to look out for the Museum’s larger than life mascot, Bertie Bear, who will be roaming the site looking for fans to have his photograph taken with!

Hundreds of families will be spending February half term on the factory floor in the recently completed Aircraft Factory and Flight Shed at Brooklands Museum in Weybridge, Surrey. Inside the newly restored Bellman hangar, visitors will be able to clock in and don factory workcoats as they begin their ‘Brooklands Apprenticeship’. A series of workshops and interactives explore some of the skills used over the 80-year history of aircraft manufacture at Brooklands. On a new mezzanine level, the story of design at Brooklands is told and visitors can design their own military and civilian aircraft from different eras of aviation including those of the future. Leaving the Factory and entering the new Flight Shed visitors will see some of the Museum’s collection of complete aircraft, including opportunities to sit in the

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Primary Times February Half Term 2018

cockpits of the Hawker Hunter and Harrier, as well as displays on radar, ground-to-air radio and pioneering pilots.

The Museum’s collections of pre-war racing cars and motorbikes, the incredible Barnes Wallis ‘Stratosphere Chamber’ and the Brooklands Aircraft Park, featuring post-war aircraft including the Sultan of Oman’s VC10 will all be open as usual. As well as this, there are racing and flying simulator rides in the 4D Theatre, special Kids Tours on Concorde and for children aged 5-11 years the chance to design your own sky scene in a special aviation-themed Family Workshop with the Brooklands Learning Team. The drop-in workshop is FREE to attend and runs from 11am – 12noon and again from 1pm – 3pm. All materials are provided.

Normal admission prices apply for half term week and are: adults £13.50, seniors £11.50, children (5-16 yrs) £7, family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children) £35. The half-hour Concorde Experience is £5 for adults, £3 for children, 4D simulator rides are £4 for adults, £2 for children. *A minimum donation of £1 per passenger is requested for car and bus rides. The main visitor entrance for the Museum is via Mercedes-Benz World, on Brooklands Drive off Wellington Way between Weybridge and Byfleet.

For full details of events, directions and general Museum information, please telephone 01932 857381 or visit www. brooklandsmuseum.com The Museum is open daily from 10am – 4pm in winter. Last entry is one hour before closing. n

High adrenaline forest adventure You are securely positioned behind the driver’s seat of a military vehicle; your team are holding the perimeter, hidden from the searching eyes of the enemy in the surrounding bushes. Tense with anticipation, your squad waits for your signal to attack.

If you are looking for an exciting school trip or birthday party, Campaign can help you, they have build themed film-set scenes amongst the trees, with buildings, bridges, jungle scenes and tunnels, and topped it off with a life-size Cowboy town complete with saloon.

Everyone is kitted out with the all latest gear including camouflaged suits and body armour and given full safety & training before being let loose into the forest, free to run, jump, shoot, crawl and climb.

Located in over 100 acres of Surrey forest near Cobham, Campaign offers Paintball &

Laser events for children and adults. Laser from age 6+, Minipaintball for 8-10 year olds and real Paintball 10-16 year olds.

They provide everything you need including full kit, clothing, tuition and also lunch can be arranged. Naturally, with safety a top priority, all players are carefully supervised throughout their visit.

Just one mile from junction 10 of the M25 • Perfect for Birthday Parties, School trips and groups of friends.

• Mobile service also available for set up in school grounds and those with large gardens Campaign Paintball & Laser Park Old Lane, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1NH www.campaign-paintball.com Tel: 01932 865 999

AUTISM ALL STARS

FOUNDATION UK Helen Wallace-Iles is a local mum with four amazing children on the autism spectrum and also runs Surrey-based charity Autism All Stars Foundation so her life is pretty hectic, but somehow she’s found time to write a book too!

It’s available here – www.tinyurl.com/ theringmasterstale - and is full of advice and information for anyone who’s interested in autism, and includes lots of funny, sad and thoughtprovoking stories about what it’s really like to live with the condition every day.

10% of all profits from the book go directly to her charity (www.autism-all-stars.org).

They’re known for their colourful character events and offer lots of opportunities for autistic people to enjoy

social events such as cinema and theatre visits. Their focus, like Helen’s, is always on the positives and they offer daily advice online via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest (/autismallstars) as well as lots of fun, interesting posts to make your day a bit brighter.

Helen’s book is the first in a trilogy and covers the early years when her children were young, so it would make the perfect gift for anyone with young children on the spectrum. Her second book will cover the teenage years and the third will be about what it’s like to be an adult with autism.

You can catch up with Helen on her blog too - www.autismall-stars.org/ringmaster - where she shares her thoughts on ‘Autism, the Universe and Everything’.

Available from www.tinyurl.com/theringmasterstale For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.co.uk

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Primary Times February Half Term 2018

CB SWIMMING

We run lessons at Downsend School Leatherhead and Epsom College, from 2 years for all abilities. All our staff are ASA and/or STA qualified and CRB checked.

We have helpers in the water to assist with the less able swimmers. All equipment is supplied, all you need to bring is swimwear. We follow the ASA and STA badge schemes.

We also do Master classes

What’s on in your area?

From Theatre shows and attractions to classes and family days out - you’ll find even more on our website!

www.primarytimes.co.uk

which are suitable if you’re looking for triathlon training.

All lessons are 30mins and run with the school terms.

It’s very important that the parents get involved during the lesson, that’s why we like to see parents watching and encouraging the children from the side of the pool. We are friendly and approachable with over 30 years of experience.

COME & TRY A CLASS FOR FREE

Swimming Lessons Quality classes in small groups

Lessons for:

• Adults and Children from 2 yrs • Non Swimmers • Improvers • Advanced • SUPER Advanced Classes held at Downsend School Leatherhead and Epsom College

For more info contact Colin on: 01372-739600 or colin@cbswimming.co.uk www.colin-bull-swimming-lessons.co.uk

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

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e r t a e Th S w o h S ’S n e r d l i h C Family &

Camberley theatre Tel: 01276 707600

TEDDY BEARS PICNIC Tuesday 13th February, 11am. Big Bear is inviting you to the best picnic in town! Bring your favourite Teddy friend down to the Teddy Bear’s Forest and join in the fun. Little Bear is a bit worried about making new friends but you can help him on his journey as he learns when to be wary, when to be scary and when to be bear-y!

With singalong songs, join-in dances and funny stories; this enchanting interactive musical adventure will leave preschoolers singing with glee and laughing until they are tired little teddy bears! Featuring the voice of Wink Taylor from THE SOOTY SHOW as Big Bear. Tickets: Full £10.50, Family of 4 for £38.

THE JUNGLE BOOK Saturday 24th February, 2pm. Immersion Theatre are thrilled to bring their trademark energy to their wildest show yet, a brand new musical adaptation of family favourite, THE JUNGLE BOOK! Filled with catchy music, a laugh-out-loud script, audience interaction, and the chance to meet the characters after the

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show, you are invited to join Mowgli and his friends Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther on a madcap adventure in the jungle as they meet and attempt to outwit a slithering snake, some cheeky monkeys and the fierce tiger, Shere Khan! Funny, exciting and wildly entertaining, this larger-than-life musical promises to be the perfect treat for families of all ages! Tickets: Full £14, Children £12, Family of 4 £44

MONSTERSAURUS Sunday 4th March, 12 noon and 3pm. This brand new production is MONSTER-OUSLY good! Follow the young inventor Monty as he creates a whole world of whacky inventions and incredible monsters! But now he has made them, how is he going to get rid of them all??? MONSTERSAURUS! from the creators of Aliens Love Underpants is an energetic show full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem and will delight the whole family. There’s original music and lots of audience participation and there’s plenty of chance for everyone to get involved! Tickets: Adult £13, Child £11

Primary Times February Half Term 2018

cranleigh arts Tel: 01483 2780000

HOOT OWL, MASTER OF DISGUISE Saturday 17th February, 11.30am & 2.30pm. Hoot Owl is no ordinary owl - He’s a Master of Disguise! And he plans to use his cunning camouflage powers to gobble up the tiny animals of the night. Trouble is, Hoot Owl’s prey keep escaping! Is Hoot Owl as masterful as he thinks he is?

Will he become a member of the Owl Parliament? And will he EVER succeed in catching himself some dinner? Join Hoot Owl’s riotous adventure as he zooms across the night and into the dark. Suitable for ages 4 - 94!

Tickets: £10; £35 Family of 4

MOONBRELLA Saturday 10th March 11am & 2pm. A multi-sensory theatre piece created especially for under 5s. MoonBrella charts the story of a brave umbrella who is whisked away to the moon and the boy who sets out to find his best friend. This production features plenty of interactive moments and includes songs, sounds, singing, silliness and many, many umbrellas! The

show is approximately 35 minutes longs and will be followed by discover-and-play time for children. All children must be accompanied by an adult, suitable for ages 18 months + Tickets: £5; Free for accompanying adult

dorking halls Tel: 01306 881717

PEPPA PIG’S ADVENTURE Wednesday 7th & Thursday 8th February, 1pm & 4pm, 10am & 1pm respectively.

Peppa Pig and friends are back in a brand new live show. Expect lots of games, laughter and live music! Join Peppa as she gets ready to go on an exciting camping trip to the woods with George and her school friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe.

With lunch-boxes packed and Daddy Pig driving the bus, Peppa and friends are excited about their outdoor adventure, full of games, laughter and live music!

The happy campers soon settle down to sleep and listen to the gentle pitter patter of rain. Safe and warm inside their tents the excited group can look forward to morning time, when there

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

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will be lots of muddy puddles to play in! Tickets: From £14.50 child, £16.50 adult

DDOS PRESENT: THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS Tuesday 6th, Wednesday 7th & Thursday 8th February, 7.45pm. This charming adaptation of Kenneth Graham’s much-loved story will bring sunshine to those dark February evenings. We have boats, car crashes, train chases and even a gypsy caravan! Come and join Mole, Ratty, Badger and, of course, Toad on their adventures along the river bank and in the wild wood but beware those pesky rabbits! They seem to be everywhere! Fun and laughter guaranteed. Tickets: £12, Concessions & DDOS Members £10

electric theatre Tel: 01483 444789

BRITISH THEATRE ACADEMY CINDERELLA Thursday 22nd – Saturday 25th February, 8pm. The timeless enchantment of a magical fairy tale is reborn with the Rodgers & Hammerstein hallmarks of originality, charm and elegance. Originally presented on television in 1957 starring Julie Andrews, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA was the most widely viewed programme in the history of the medium. Its recreation in 1965 starring Lesley Ann Warren was no less successful in transporting a new generation to the miraculous kingdom of dreams-come-true, and so was a second remake in 1997, which starred Brandy as Cinderella and Whitney Houston as her Fairy Godmother. As adapted for the stage, with great warmth and more than a touch of hilarity, the hearts of children and adults alike still soar when the slipper fits. Tickets: £18.50

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ME AND MY BEE Friday 16th March, 7pm.

Climate change is massive.

Bees aren’t. Our fuzzy little friends need our help and so we’re launching a political party disguised as a party disguised as a show. Multi award-winning theatre company, This Egg, invites you to save the world – one bee at a time. A new comedy for children and adults alike. Plant the seed for change, join the Bee Party. Before it’s too late... Tickets: £15

epsom playhouse Tel: 01372 742555

CRAFTY’S CREEPY CASTLE Wednesday 14th February, 2pm. From the team behind Marty MacDonald’s Farm and The Santa Shows comes the spookiest show ever…Why has Crafty the Crow gone to live in a haunted castle? Can Sally the Scarecrow help with its ghostly goings-on?

And why is Pirate Harry making things go bump in the night?

Come in your scariest costume and join the adventure to find the hidden treasure in Crafty’s Creepy Castle…then meet Crafty afterwards and receive a special present! Songs include children’s favourites Ghostbusters, Dingle, Dangle Scarecrow, The Hokey Cokey, Hickory Dickory Dock, Row, Row, Row Your Boat, I Hear Thunder and many more! Crafty’s Creepy Castle is a family show particularly suitable for 2-7 year olds and lasts for 40 minutes, followed by our popular meet, greet and treat with Crafty the Crow himself - including a free present for every child! Tickets: From £9

THE JUNGLE BOOK Saturday 10th March, 2.30pm. Immersion Theatre are thrilled to bring their trademark energy to their wildest show yet, a brand new musical adaptation of family favourite, THE JUNGLE BOOK! Filled with catchy music,

Primary Times February Half Term 2018

a laugh-out-loud script, audience interaction, and the chance to meet the characters after the show, you are invited to join Mowgli and his friends Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther on a madcap adventure in the jungle as they meet and attempt to outwit a slithering snake, some cheeky monkeys and the fierce tiger, Shere Khan! Funny, exciting and wildly entertaining, this largerthan-life musical promises to be the perfect treat for families of all ages! Tickets: From £9.25

G-Live Tel: 0844 7701 797

GLISTEN! Saturday 10th February, 10.30, 12 noon & 2pm. Come in, relax, find a space and settle.

Slowly, a shimmering surface emerges. What does it look like?

How does it move? Listen, what can you hear? Welcome to a world of shiny things. Welcome to Glisten! Glisten is an interactive performance for babies aged 0-18 months and their grown-ups. The audience are taken on a gentle and immersive journey exploring the world of reflective materials wrapped up in a soundscape of evocative yet laid-back music.

Watch as the empty space of the theatre fills with colour, sounds and surprises, creating a sensory landscape ready to explore after the performance is over. Glisten is performed to a small audience creating an intimate and unique theatrical experience, stunningly co-created by theatre-maker Daniel Naddafy and designer Phoebe Stubbs. A beautiful, sensory first theatrical experience for babies. Tickets: £16 (1 Child and their Grown-up)

COMEDY CLUB 4 KIDS Saturday 17th February, 3pm. Do you love comedy at G Live? Then bring the family!

Comedy Club 4 Kids gives you cracking entertainment for everyone over six years old and

under 400 years old. We have the best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits! Suitable for: Ages 6-11 years and their grown-ups.

Tickets: £11, Family Offer: £36 (minimum 1 adult)

harlequin theatre Tel: 01737 276 500

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Wednesday 21st March at 7.30pm. Join Ballet Theatre UK and The Harlequin Theatre as we enter the enchanting and magical realm of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Following on from the company’s critically acclaimed production of Romeo and Juliet we present a ballet set to charm the whole family.

Be transported to a fantastical world of dazzling dance, music and enchantment. Lovers, fairies, mischief and moonlight conspire in Shakespeare’s classic tale. With stunning original choreography set to the iconic Mendelssohn score and breath-taking costume you will be transported to the magical woodland of old where you will rediscovery the magical charm of this classic tale. Billed as a wonderful treat for young and old, lovers of dance, music and sheer theatrical magic. Tickets: From £15 - £19.50

leatherhead theatre Tel: 01372 365141

WONDER (PG) Tuesday 27th February 2pm and 7:30pm, Wednesday 28th February 2pm. Based on the New York Times bestseller, WONDER tells the incredibly inspiring and heart-warming story of August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who enters fifth grade, attending a mainstream elementary school for the first time. Tickets: Adult: £9, Concessions: £7.80​

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

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CALLING ALL

CHILDREN!

ANIMAL

BARN COMING SOON