e e fr
E UID G ON S ’ T A WH
for parents, teachers and children
in Surrey
Christmas 2015
23rd November 2015 - 8th February 2016
SANTA FIR
CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
the home of fresh Christmas Trees See page 3 for more details
Plus
Roundabout, Pinboard, The Benefits of The Performing Arts, What’s Going on in Woking and much more!
Education
4
School News ..........................................................................................
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 and Amy Thomas Events Listings Amy Thomas - amy@pw-media.co.uk Sales & PR Suzie Scott - 01905 727904 Diane Stinton - 01905 727903
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
Roundabout
10
What’s On ..........................................................................................
Pinboard 18 News From Your Area ..........................................................................................
What’s Going on...
22
In Woking ..........................................................................................
The Benefits of The Performing Arts
26
..........................................................................................
Theatre 28 Who’s Treading The Boards? ..........................................................................................
Performing Arts training for better Academic Success I have been training children and students in the performing arts for over 13 years. I recently found some information that I just felt I needed to share to all the readers of Primary Times. One of the reasons I am so passionate about training students in the performing arts is due to the huge effect it has on their general life skills and academics at school. Research with parents whose children regularly attend performing arts activities has shown that participation in performing arts can benefit children in a wide range of ways. Over 90% of parents surveyed believe their child feels more confident at school, having attended performing arts classes, with 85% seeing an improvement in academic performance. Parents also
4
Primary Times Christmas 2015
noted improvements in their child’s ability to: • Express opinions to adults they do not know (94%) • Listen attentively (89%) • Find innovative solutions to problems (91%) • Make new friends (92%) The study, commissioned by Stagecoach Theatre Arts, surveyed 1,500 parents and backs up research highlighted in the government’s ‘Taking Part’ initiative and the DICE (“Drama Improves Lisbon Key Competences in Education”) report, which showed children who took part in drama activities are more likely to be better at problem solving, feel more confident in communication
and are more innovative and entrepreneurial. Stagecoach Epsom has been providing children’s performing arts education for over 20 years and believes that a focus on teaching life skills in addition to academic knowledge helps develop independent, creative learners who are more able to adapt to new situations. In a world were children are feeling the pressure to perform in all areas of their lives, we feel so strongly that Stagecoach can aid this development and also help them through their often stressful academic years at secondary school. Many of my ex-students, who are now in their 20’s, have been in touch to tell me their stagecoach training helped
them gain the jobs they have today and 90% of these jobs are not in the performing arts industry! They also felt their 3 hours ‘out’ gave them the space to be themselves and give their brains a rest. Here’s what our parents said about our training. ‘’I’m a huge advocate of Stagecoach Epsom and all that you and your wonderful team of teachers and coaches do for and achieve with our children.’’ ‘’My son now 23 years old has landed a top job in the city, he said his success at interview was down to his performing arts training with you’’ n By Rachel Crouch Email: epsom@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecaoch.co.uk/epsom
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
5
See the Northern Lights with
Ewell Castle School
The Maths Factor
Graduation The second annual Maths Factor Graduation Day took place on 26 October to celebrate the achievement of 30 primary school children who have made exceptional progress through the main Course this year.
Ewell Castle School believes in achieving each child’s potential and we offer pupils an enormous array of extracurricular activities in sport, music, drama, art and academic societies, not to mention a full range of trips, which provide opportunities for personal development and leadership. Peter Harris, Principal of Ewell Castle School commented “This environment nurtures the talents of our pupils, enhances their personal portfolio and helps to produce well rounded young people.“
6
One such trip is the yearly Senior School visit to Iceland, which includes a visit to a number of geographically important features and places such as Thingvellir National Park, where the eastern tectonic plates meet the western ones, Geysers, volcanic beaches and the famous Blue Lagoon. The annual trip takes place in mid October, which statistically speaking is one of the best times to visit Iceland to catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights. n www.ewellcastle.co.uk
Primary Times Christmas 2015
Held at Pearson’s London offices, the leading learning company that owns The Maths Factor, the event saw each child receive a certificate and a mortar board from Carol Vorderman, founder of the site and best-selling education author. Two groups of a dozen children, known as ‘Graduates’ and ‘Progress Champions’, were commended on the day. Together with their families, each enjoyed the graduation ceremony hosted by Carol, as well as a slice of the fantastic Maths Factor cake (pictured). Each child also left with a celebratory goody bag and balloon.
The Maths Factor Graduates are selected from those who have completed the site’s main course during the last 12 months. Progress Champions, selected from Years 1-5, are chosen on how much progress they have made compared to others in their Year Group also using The Maths Factor. For more information or to sign up, visit: www.themathsfactor. com for more details. Subscription price is £9.99 per month, with no minimum contract and subscriptions can be cancelled anytime. n
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
7
8
Primary Times Christmas 2015
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
9
hat’s On an
n Rou
W
hen
d
CHRISTMAS FOOD FESTIVAL Priory Farm, Sandy Lane, South Nutfield, Redhill, Surrey RH1 4EJ. Saturday 10am - 4.30pm, Sunday 10.30am - 4.30pm. Priory Farm Christmas Food Festival has become a firm fixture on the foodie calendar and this year’s event is set to sparkle brighter than ever. The farm shop is renowned for its long-standing support of local and regional food and drink and each year we welcome scores of artisan producers who offer tastings and chat to visitors about their speciality products. Festival-goers can look forward to a wealth of food and beverage products including Christmas preserves, free-range Kentish turkeys to order ahead, the farm’s handmade sausages, charcuterie, artisan
fW
Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th
o
NOVEMBER
ily Dia ry Fam
R
Yo ur
d
ut o b a
Road, Milford, GU8 5HL. Santa will open the grotto on Saturday 28th November. 10am – 4pm most days. Squire’s Garden Centre in Milford have a spectacular 4D Grotto Experience – new for 2015! Santa’s chief elf “Elfin” will personally greet you when you arrive. Then you will watch “Boris in the Winter Forest”, a magical film about Boris the dog, featuring special effects that turn this 3D film adventure into an enchanting and captivating 4D Christmas experience! Expect some snow and lots of other surprises while you watch! Your journey then continues with a visit to see Santa inside his special toy workshop before
anniversary year. ‘Alice in Wonderland’
snowy forests of Denmark, wayward
was first published 150 years ago
travellers are telling stories too.
in 1865. To celebrate this special
Stories to warm the heart and
anniversary year a selection of the
strengthen the soul. Stories that
best of Sir John Tenniel’s illustrations
stretch the imagination far and wide
to Lewis Carroll’s two Alice books
– stories that might just keep the
(Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and
little match girl alive… Tickets: £11
Through the Looking-Glass and What
Under 18’s £9. See website for times.
Alice Found There), will be on show at
www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk
Guildford Museum. Free entry. www. guildford.gov.uk/museum
DECEMBER Tuesday 1st
Thursday 3rd December 2015 - Sunday 3rd January 2016 Christmas Glow at Wisley RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey GU23 6QB. Enjoy the festive
Christmas Winter Fair
atmosphere with the Jigantics light
Denbies Wine Estate, London Road,
installations dotted around the
Dorking Surrey RH5 6AA. 5.30 –
garden in the shape of magical, giant
8.30pm. Great Festive range of stalls
illuminated flowers. Look out for
perfect for gift ideas. Free admission
the natural Christmas decorations,
& car parking. Our unique events
from holly wreaths to carpets of
in Surrey offer a great time out.
ivy. There will be sparkling seasonal
Enquiries: T. 01306 742002 e-mail:
decorations, and unrivalled RHS gifts,
events@denbiesvineyard.co.uk
plants and books for sale to make
Wednesday 2nd
Christmas shopping a pleasure. The Wisley Christmas Shop will be open
Ghost tours
until 24th December. Visit at dusk
Ham House and Garden, Ham Street,
as the garden opens until 5pm (last
Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10
entry 4pm). Buy half price garden
7RS. 7:30pm - 9pm. Reputed to be
entry tickets (£6 adult, £3 child) for
one of the most haunted houses in
entry to the garden between 3pm
Britain, discover the ghostly tales
and 4pm. www.rhs.org.uk
scattered through the history of Ham House. Drinks and refreshments in the Orangery followed by an
Friday 4th Wednesday 23rd
in the house and garden. Tickets:
Christmas at Polesden Lacey
Christmas wish list, and if they’ve
£22. More Information:
Polesdon Lacey, Great Bookham,
been very good, they’ll receive an
Ham House and Garden,
Near Dorking RH5 6BD. 11am - 3:30
early Christmas present! The 4D
020 8940 1950 hamhouse@
pm. Come and join the Christmas
Grotto Experience is great fun for all
nationaltrust.org.uk
party at Polesden Lacey. Mrs Greville
he dashes off to load up his sleigh. Children can tell Santa about their
the family and will take approximately 15 minutes, followed by a visit to see Santa. Tickets cost from £7 per child
atmospheric after-hours ghost tour
Thursday 3rd Saturday 5th
requests the honour of your company this Christmas at her fabulous festive party. Step back in time to the 1930s
(includes a wrapped present) or £8 in
The Little Match Girl
and experience all the glamour of a
December and £3 for adults. Book your
Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Millbrook,
high society Christmas soiree. The
tickets and time slot now: www.
Guildford, Surrey GU1 3UX. “How the
house is blooming with seasonal
squiresgardencentres.co.uk
match blazed and burned! It gave
flowers, Christmas trees twinkle
Telephone: 01252 756450
out a warm, bright flame like a little
gently in the corners of the salon,
candle, as she held her hands over
scents of nutmeg and cinnamon drift
it. A wonderful little light it was.”
from the servery, and all the while
A little girl walks barefoot through
1930s tunes float through the air to
the streets of a village, offering
set your feet dancing. It’s not just
her matches to passers-by. Frozen
the grown-ups who are celebrating
Looking in Wonderland
from the cold, she rests in a nook
this year. Mrs Greville’s dogs are
Guildford Museum, Castle Arch,
and strikes a match to keep warm.
having their very own party. Adult £4,
Spectacular Christmas Grotto
Guildford GU1 3SX. Some of the most
Dancing in the light of the flame
Child £2, Family £10 (1A 3C), Family
famous illustrations in the world will
are her memories, her imagination,
£10 (2A 2C), Family £10 (2A 3C).
Squire’s Garden Centre, Portsmouth
be brought to Guildford in this special
her story. Meanwhile, deep in the
Please see the website for open and
breads, locally-produced cheeses and traditional drinks. A hot food offering will ensure no-one leaves hungry while the cookware and gift shop dish up endless inspiration for those seeking unusual Christmas presents. Free entry and free parking. www.prioryfarm.co.uk
Saturday 28th November – Thursday 24th December
10
Primary Times Christmas 2015
Monday 28th November 2015 Thursday 23rd January 2016
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
11
R closed days. More Information: 01372 452048 polesdenlacey@ nationaltrust.org.uk
Friday 4th December 2015 - Sunday 3rd January 2015 Jack and the Beanstalk Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Millbrook, Guildford, Surrey GU1 3UX. Creator and star of Fascinating Aida, the incredibly talented and brilliantly funny cabaret artist and actress extraordinaire, DILLIE KEANE leads the cast as the Good Fairy in this year’s magical family pantomime. Surrey and Hampshire’s favourite breakfast show host, Eagle Radio’s PETER GORDON is bedecked in a brand new array of astonishing frocks and ready to present the delightfully ditsy Dame Dolly Trott. Master of the custard pie and unflagging slapstick, Panto favourite JAMIE BROOK returns to entertain us as the loveable fool, Jack’s brother Silly-Billy. One of Britain’s best-loved actors, as well as local legend, BRIAN BLESSED will be the voice of Giant Blunderbore. Tickets: £19 -£27.50, Under 16’s £5 reduction. See website for times. www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk
Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th Gingerbread and Santa stories RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey GU23 6QB. Each weekend of December, come and decorate gingerbread and listen to stories with Santa. For children of all ages, accompanied by a responsible adult. Price: £5 per child for RHS members and non-members. www.rhs.org.uk
Christmas at Leith Hill Place Leith Hill Place, Leith Hill Lane, near Coldharbour village, Dorking, Surrey.
12
Primary Times Christmas 2015
Join us for some festive fun - music and
will be in his grotto meeting children
around you as your children share
a last chance to visit the house before
and giving out hand-picked gifts to
their wish and receive a gift. Please
winter closing. Two seasonal concerts
all of them. Children £8. Booking
book online or via the booking
per day from London based cappella
Essential 020 8545 6850
telephone line 01932 584284 (weekdays only 10am – 4pm). Ticket
group, Apollo5. Book for the concert
Prices: Child: £9, Adult: £7.70, Adult
seasonal atmosphere in between.
Santa Specials - A festive ride on the light railway
Either before or after your chosen
Rural Life Museum, Reeds Road,
www.painshill.co.uk
concert time you will be able to sample
Tilford, Farnham, Surrey GY10 2DL. Live
home baked treats, enjoy the cosy fire
animals, Toy Workshop Model Railway
and visit other parts of the house. There
display, Seasonal Refreshments &
Santa Specials - A festive ride on the light railway
will be further entertainment from our
Gifts. Children £11.50, Adults £7.
Rural Life Museum, Reeds Road,
group of singers and there will be a
Book early to avoid disappointment.
Tilford, Farnham, Surrey GY10
chance to join in singing your favourite
Bookings may now be made by
2DL. Live animals, Toy Workshop
carols. There will also be family
telephone whenever the museum
Model Railway display, Seasonal
activities so there is something for
office is staffed. Please be patient and
Refreshments & Gifts. Children
everyone. Adult £12, Child £6. More
keep trying if the line is engaged - we
£11.50, Adults £7. Book early to avoid
Information: Gabrielle Gale,
can only deal with one booking at a
disappointment. Bookings may now
07795 256657 leithhillplace@
time! Once again this year we will
be made by telephone whenever
nationaltrust.org.uk
only be able to see children who have
the museum office is staffed. Please
pre-booked. Please also note that once
be patient and keep trying if the line
How Wizard Wix saved Christmas
a booking is paid for, it can neither
is engaged - we can only deal with
be cancelled nor changed. Tel: 01252
one booking at a time! Once again
Hatchlands Park, East Clandon,
795571 Please note: The museum
this year we will only be able to see
Guildford GU4 7RT. 11am – 4pm. Solve
itself is not open during Santa Specials.
children who have pre-booked. Please
the tricky trail to help Wizard Wix save
www.rural-life.org.uk
also note that once a booking is paid
at 11.30 or 14.00 (1 hr) and enjoy the
Member: Free, Concession: £6.60
for, it can neither be cancelled nor
Christmas. Take part in fun festive crafts and even meet Father Christmas
Charity Christmas Tree Sale
changed. Tel: 01252 795571 Please
himself. Normal admission applies, plus
Bookham Scouting Centre, Eastwick
note: The museum itself is not open
£5 to meet Father Christmas. (Booking
Park Avenue, KT23 3NA. 1st and
during Santa Specials. www.rural-
essential). More Information:
3rd Bookham Scout Groups (which
life.org.uk
Guildford Tourist Information
include Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and
Office 01483 444334, tic@
Explorers) will be selling non drop
Sunday 6th
guildford.gov.uk
Christmas Tress to raise funds for
Tree Dressing Festival
activities and our shared premises
Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road,
Visit Father Christmas
on the first two weekends of
Morden, London, SM4 5JD. 11am –
Ham House and Garden, Ham Street,
December from 10am to 3pm at
3pm. Celebrate our amazing trees and
Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 7RS.
Bookham Scouting Centre. www.
remember how important they are
10am – 5pm. Follow our Christmas
xmastrees.org.uk/bookham
to us. Make environmentally friendly
trail in the gardens to visit Father Christmas in his grotto where every child will receive a Christmas
Saturday 5th Thursday 24th
decorations and dress our stable yard Christmas tree. Free event, normal admission applies. More
admission. More Information:
Father Christmas in the Crystal Grotto
020 8545 6850 kate.solecki@ nationaltrust.org.uk
gift. Tickets £3.50 plus normal Ham House and Garden
Painshill Landscape Garden,
020 8940 1950 hamhouse@
Portsmouth Road, Cobham, Surrey,
nationaltrust.org.uk
KT11 1JE. For a truly magical
Information: Kate Solecki,
Visit Father Christmas
the crystal Grotto at Painshill 18th
The Weybridge Handcrafted Christmas Market
Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road,
century landscape garden. Follow the
Christ Prince of Peace Church Hall,
Morden, London, SM4 5JD. 11am –
festive route through the beautiful
Portmore Way, Weybridge, KT13
4pm. Father Christmas is returning to
surroundings to Grotto Island. Here
8JD. 11.30am – 2.30pm. Avoid the
Morden Hall Park this year to spread
you will enter the Christmas Wishing
humdrum of the high street and
the festive spirit. Visit him in his
Tent where children will receive
choose from a dazzling array of
enchanted grotto in our Victorian stable
an activity pack and refreshments
original gifts from some of the most
yard to receive a special gift chosen just
can be purchased. Elves will then
talented craftspeople in Southern
for you. Join us at Morden Hall Park as
guide you into the amazing crystal
England, whilst feasting on Hog Roast
Father Christmas comes to visit us in the
Grotto with dazzling stalactites, to
and drinking mulled wine. Stalls
stable yard. Alongside festive music and
meet Father Christmas. Hundreds of
include: Silver jewellery, Greeting
our Christmas market, Father Christmas
thousands of crystals will sparkle all
cards, Garlands, Wreaths, Preserves,
experience visit Father Christmas in
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
13
R Woodwork, Bags, Clothing, Beauty products, Cupcakes, Artwork, Toys and Wine tasting. Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Santa in our now legendary grotto. Come early to avoid the queues! This event has been organised to raise funds for the St Charles Borromeo School PTA, a registered charity. Please contact Trudy James on 07976 804852
Wednesday 9th Ghost tours Ham House and Garden, Ham Street, Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 7RS. 7:30 pm - 9pm. Reputed to be one of the most haunted houses in Britain, discover the ghostly tales scattered through the history of Ham House. Drinks and refreshments in the Orangery followed by an atmospheric after-hours ghost tour in the house and garden. Tickets: £22. More Information: Ham House and Garden, 020 8940 1950 hamhouse@ nationaltrust.org.uk
Friday 11th Sunday 13th The Snow Queen
from his icy prison and melt his frozen
include Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and
020 8940 1950 hamhouse@
heart? Following their successful tour
Explorers) will be selling non drop
nationaltrust.org.uk
of Rudyard Kipling’s Just So Stories,
Christmas Tress to raise funds for
Apollo Theatre Company presents
activities and our shared premises
Visit Father Christmas
this brand new adaptation of Hans
on the first two weekends of
Morden Hall Park, Morden Hall Road,
Christian Andersen’s classic story,
December from 10am to 3pm at
Morden, London, SM4 5JD. 11am –
just in time for Christmas. Suitable
Bookham Scouting Centre. www.
4pm. Father Christmas is returning to
for ages 3 – 103. Tickets £9 (£7 child).
xmastrees.org.uk/bookham
Morden Hall Park this year to spread
www.riverhousebarn.com
Saturday 12th Bourne Hall Museum Club
Saturday 12th December – Sunday 3rd January
the festive spirit. Visit him in his enchanted grotto in our Victorian stable yard to receive a special gift chosen just for you. Join us at Morden Hall Park as
Winter Wonders Children’s Trail
Father Christmas comes to visit us in the
Surrey, KT17 1UF. Meets between 1pm and 2.30pm. The club for
Winkworth Arboretum, Hascombe
our Christmas market, Father Christmas
children aged 8 to 12+ who love
Road, Godalming, Surrey GU8 4AD.
will be in his grotto meeting children
history and like to have fun while
Follow our traditional Christmas
and giving out hand-picked gifts to
learning about it. We travel back
children’s trail around the Arboretum
all of them. Children £8. Booking
through time to discover the past and
and enjoy the spirit of the festive
Essential 020 8545 6850
its people encompassing all periods
season. Cost: 50p per trail plus normal
of history from the deepest Stone
admission charges apply. More
Age to the home front in Epsom
Information: 01483 208936
Santa Specials - A festive ride on the light railway
during World War 2. Through a
winkwortharboretum@
Rural Life Museum, Reeds Road,
combination of hands-on experience,
nationaltrust.org.uk
Tilford, Farnham, Surrey GY10 2DL. Live
Bourne Hall, Spring Street, Ewell,
stable yard. Alongside festive music and
animals, Toy Workshop Model Railway
visiting experts and a coming together
Gingerbread and Santa stories
display, Seasonal Refreshments &
have fun and learn together. Cost: £4 per child for each session. For
RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey
Book early to avoid disappointment.
more information, please
GU23 6QB. Each weekend of December,
Bookings may now be made by
email David Brooks by email:
come and decorate gingerbread
telephone whenever the museum
dbrooks@epsom-ewell.gov.uk
and listen to stories with Santa. For
office is staffed. Please be patient and
children of all ages, accompanied by a
keep trying if the line is engaged - we
responsible adult. Price: £5 per child
can only deal with one booking at a
for RHS members and non-members.
time! Once again this year we will
www.rhs.org.uk
only be able to see children who have
of enthusiastic minds, we aim to
Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th Christmas animal visit Hatchlands Park, East Clandon,
Gifts. Children £11.50, Adults £7.
pre-booked. Please also note that once a booking is paid for, it can neither
in our courtyard. Free event, normal
How Wizard Wix saved Christmas
admission applies. Hatchlands
Hatchlands Park, East Clandon,
795571 Please note: The museum
Park NT Office, 01483 222482
Guildford GU4 7RT. 11am – 4pm. Solve
itself is not open during Santa Specials.
hatchlands@nationaltrust.
the tricky trail to help Wizard Wix save
www.rural-life.org.uk
org.uk
Christmas. Take part in fun festive
Guildford GU4 7RT. Meet the animals
be cancelled nor changed. Tel: 01252
crafts and even meet Father Christmas
Sunday 13th
himself. Normal admission applies, plus
Christmas Carols
Friday 11 December 6pm; Saturday
Father Christmas comes to Claremont
£5 to meet Father Christmas. (Booking
Hatchlands Park, East Clandon,
12 December 2pm and 6pm; Sunday
Claremont Landscape Garden,
essential). More Information:
Guildford GU4 7RT. 12 noon – 1pm or
13 December 2pm. Apollo Theatre
Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG.
Guildford Tourist Information
2pm – 3pm. Enjoy festive carols and
Company presents a new adaption of
10:30am - 3:30pm. The Thatched
Office 01483 444334, tic@
readings in the Music room with all the
this classic Hans Christian Anderson
Cottage will be magically transformed
guildford.gov.uk
family. Adult £8, Child £4, Per Item £20
tale. When young Kai is snatched
for the visit of Father Christmas.
from his home by the beautiful, cruel
Normal admission plus £10 per child.
Visit Father Christmas
essential. More Information:
Snow Queen, his best friend, Gerda,
More Information: Father
Ham House and Garden, Ham Street,
Guildford Tourist Information
sets out on an epic journey to rescue
Christmas booking line,
Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 7RS.
Office, 01483 444334 tic@
him. Along the way, she encounters a
01372 476436 claremont@
10am – 5pm. Follow our Christmas
guildford.gov.uk
series of strangers to whom she tells
nationaltrust.org.uk
trail in the gardens to visit Father
Riverhouse Barn, Manor Road, Walton-on-Thames, Surrey KT12 2PF.
(Family 2 adults 2 children). Booking
and her innocence, each of them
Charity Christmas Tree Sale
every child will receive a Christmas
Monday 14th – Thursday 17th
offers to help her on her quest. Can
Bookham Scouting Centre, Eastwick
gift. Tickets £3.50 plus normal
The Nutcracker - The Play
Gerda and her new friends reach the
Park Avenue, KT23 3NA. 1st and
admission. More Information:
Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Millbrook,
Snow Queen’s palace to release Kai
3rd Bookham Scout Groups (which
Ham House and Garden
Guildford, Surrey GU1 3UX. 1.30pm
her tale. Charmed by Gerda’s story
14
Primary Times Christmas 2015
Christmas in his grotto where
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
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
15
R and 5pm. It’s Christmas and when Clara is given a wooden nutcracker in the shape of a handsome Prince, little does she know that she and her brother Fritz are about to be drawn into a great adventure. The Mouse Queen has stolen the magic of the Christmas Tree star and the Land of Make Believe is in danger. The children and the toys must join in battle against the rotten royal rodents to save the magic of Christmas and restore the Prince to the throne. But first, Clara and Fritz must learn how to believe… Tickets: £9. Suitable for 4 years and over. www.yvonne-arnaud.co.uk
Monday 14th Late Night Christmas Market Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking Surrey RH5 6AA. 5.30pm – 8.30pm. Great Festive range of stalls perfect for gift ideas, seasonal food, arts, crafts and jewellery. Free mulled wine and mince pies. Free admission & car parking. www.denbies.co.uk
Wednesday 16th Ghost tours
Guildford GU1 3SX. 1pm - 2pm. Join
£5 to meet Father Christmas. (Booking
Matthew Alexander, former curator
essential). More Information:
at Guildford Museum, and enjoy an
Guildford Tourist Information
entertaining talk about the traditions
Office 01483 444334, tic@
and customs of this festive time. Tickets:
guildford.gov.uk
£3.50 www.guildford.gov.uk
Monday 21st Dick Whittington ‘Relaxed’ Performance Leatherhead Theatre, Church Street, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 8DN. 1pm Relaxed Performance allowing
Frozen Singalong
Saturday 19th Tuesday 22nd
Riverhouse Barn, Manor Road, Walton-
Visit Father Christmas
on-Thames, Surrey KT12 2PF. 2pm Sing
Ham House and Garden, Ham Street,
along to Disney’s smash-hit animated
Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 7RS.
musical Frozen, in the comfort of the
10am – 5pm. Follow our Christmas
barn. Bring a comfy cushion with you
trail in the gardens to visit Father
and maybe even a costume and sing
Christmas in his grotto where
sing sing! Inspired by a Hans Christian
every child will receive a Christmas
Andersen fairy tale, and voiced by
gift. Tickets £3.50 plus normal
Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Josh gad
admission. More Information:
reduce the sound effects and slightly
and Jonathan Groff, this Oscar-winning
Ham House and Garden
raise the lighting so that everyone
snowy sensation has become the
020 8940 1950 hamhouse@
can enjoy the fun. Dick Whittington
highest-grossing Disney film of all
nationaltrust.org.uk
stars Christopher Pym as Dick, Danny
time and has spawned a succession
everyone to join in with the fun, for audience members who are sensitive to their environment, Leatherhead Theatre will be presenting a ‘Relaxed’ performance of Dick Whittington. A Relaxed performance means that people with autism, sensory and communication disorders or learning disabilities can enjoy the pantomime with their friends and family. We
Rogers as Idle Jack and Robert Squire
of instant classic hits, including the
Sunday 20th
globally-popular ‘Let It go’. Tickets £5
Lucky Dip Christmas Disco
per child (£3 accompanying adults).
Riverhouse Barn, Manor Road,
from the prestigious Guildford School
www.riverhousebarn.com
Walton-on-Thames, Surrey KT12
of Acting. Tickets: Adults £16.50,
2PF. 3pm – 5pm Local award winning
Concessions and Children £13.50,
musician and DJ, Janek Schaefer
Groups of 15+ £13.00, Family £52.00
returns with his Retro Disco for
Gingerbread and Santa stories
(for 4, min 2 children). Booking:
children and their families to dance
01372 365141 or online www.
together. His Lucky Dip Disco invites
theleatherheadtheatre.org
RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey
you to select the records that you
GU23 6QB. Each weekend of December,
want to dance to, from a collection
come and decorate gingerbread
of classic dancing music from the
and listen to stories with Santa. For
1920’s to the 2010’s on 7” vinyl and
children of all ages, accompanied by a
digital. Bubbles, lights, games and
Gingerbread and Santa stories
responsible adult. Price: £5 per child
musical mayhem! Pre-booking is
RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey
for RHS members and non-members.
essential as the last event sold out
GU23 6QB. Come and decorate
www.rhs.org.uk
quickly! Refreshments available
gingerbread and listen to stories
from the Café. Tickets: £7 per child,
Visit Father Christmas
with Santa. For children of all ages,
£5 per adult (non-walkers FREE).
accompanied by a responsible adult.
Ham House and Garden, Ham Street,
www.riverhousebarn.com
Price: £5 per child for RHS members and
Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th
Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 7RS.
as Dame Sarah the Cook. Actor, singer and model Christopher Pym graduated
Wednesday 23rd & Thursday 24th
non-members. www.rhs.org.uk
Ham House and Garden, Ham Street,
10am – 5pm. Follow our Christmas
Monday 21st
Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10
trail in the gardens to visit Father
7RS. 7:30 pm - 9pm. Reputed to be
Christmas in his grotto where
Looking in Wonderland holiday activity session
one of the most haunted houses in
every child will receive a Christmas
Guildford Museum, Castle arch,
Britain, discover the ghostly tales
gift. Tickets £3.50 plus normal
Guildford GU1 3SX. 11am to 1pm.
scattered through the history of Ham
Friday 1st
admission. More Information:
Visit the Looking in Wonderland
House. Drinks and refreshments
Ham House and Garden
exhibition and discover John Tenniel’s
New Year’s Day Garden & Belvedere Tower Opening
in the Orangery followed by an
020 8940 1950 hamhouse@
marvellous illustrations created for
Claremont Landscape Garden,
atmospheric after-hours ghost tour
nationaltrust.org.uk
Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures
Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9JG.
in Wonderland. Listen together to
Bring family and friends to walk off the
these tales, follow a museum trail and
excess of the holiday season with a stroll
Ham House and Garden,
How Wizard Wix saved Christmas
make a set of card soldiers. To book
around the Garden and an opportunity
020 8940 1950 hamhouse@
Hatchlands Park, East Clandon,
your place for this activity session,
to enjoy stunning views from the
nationaltrust.org.uk
Guildford GU4 7RT. 11am – 4pm. Solve
please call 01483 44751. This event
Belvedere Tower. Belvedere Tower open
the tricky trail to help Wizard Wix save
is suitable for children aged six years
from 11am to 2pm. Normal admission
Christmas. Take part in fun festive
and over. Tickets: £3 per child. www.
applies. More Information:
Christmas in Old Surrey
crafts and even meet Father Christmas
guildfordmuseum.gov.uk
01372 467806 claremont@
Guildford Museum, Castle arch,
himself. Normal admission applies, plus
in the house and garden. Tickets: £22. More Information:
Saturday 19th
16
Primary Times Christmas 2015
JANUARY
nationaltrust.org.uk
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
17
A POSTCARD FROM TITAN Pensthorpe Conservation Trust and Natural England. The project is looking into the causes of the population declines with the aim of reversing the trend and ensuring future generations can hear their soothing call. They want to get children involved in helping to save these birds, so are asking you to think about the sort of messages that Titan would put on a postcard back to England if he could write. Perhaps he’d write something like, “Nice weather here in Spain. Think I may stop with friends for a few
Photo credit: John Mallord/RSPB.
Titan the Turtle Dove is a very special bird. He is the fi rst Turtle Dove to be successfully tracked from his breeding grounds in England to his winter home in sub- Saharan Africa. In the summer of 2014 Titan was fitted with a specially designed satellite tag, weighing just 4.9 grams. He then spent the summer near his breeding grounds, before starting his migration at the end of September. Researchers at the RSPB were able to track him as he flew through France and Spain, stopping off for a few days in North Africa before settling in Mali in late October. Titan’s return to England started on 19 May this year when he left Mali and began the 5,600km journey back. Having crossed the 2,000km of Sahara desert,
18
Primary Times Christmas 2015
he spent a couple of weeks refuelling in Morocco, then another couple of weeks making his way through Spain and France, before fi nally settling near to where he had been tagged. This year Titan has once again successfully undertaken this mammoth journey to Mali. What a lot of places this dainty bird has visited! Why is Titan so important to us? Turtle Doves are the UK’s only migrant dove and they herald the arrival of summer with their distinctive ‘turr-turr’ call. But this sound is becoming scarce. The Turtle Dove population is halving every six years and if the decline keeps going at this rate we risk losing the Turtle Dove as a breeding species in the UK. Operation Turtle Dove is a partnership project involving the RSPB, Conservation Grade,
days before tackling the Sahara. Titan”.
The postcards will be displayed at Pensthorpe Natural Park, and there are prizes for the best three postcards. Postcards can be downloaded from the Operation Turtle Dove website (www. operationturtledove.org), along with instructions and Terms & Conditions. The competition closes on Friday 8 January. n For full details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ midsautumnglow. Closing date: 9 November 2015
PICK THE FUN FOR CHRISTMAS FAMILIES
TREE Choosing the centrepiece of Christmas decorations is a traditional family activity. Windsor Great Park has all sizes of Nordmann Fir (non-drop) and Norway Spruce Grown-in-Britain certified trees available. There are bags of logs, kindling wood, holly wreaths and mistletoe cut from the forests as well as a new
Windsor Great Park festivities include a family trail around Obelisk Pond, (01 to 31 December), weekday morning Christmas story readings for the very young at 10.30 and 11.30am, letter writing to Father Christmas and Christmas card making in the Arts and Crafts area. Children aged 3-8 years can join Elves from LaplandUK in their magical
woodland glade, with stories, songs and activities, and leave with a special present. Weekend only workshops start 28-29 November until 19-20 December, cost £7.50 per child and must be booked (01784 485 400 or in person at the Savill Building). Free entry to The Savill Garden. n www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk
range of Christmas treats. It’s open 9.00am – 7.00pm from 23 November to 23 December at the Christmas tree depot in the heart of Windsor Forest (Forest gate opposite Pink Lodge) and, for the first time, at the Savill Garden where an Estate Forester will be on hand to assist with tree selection. n
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
19
Santa’s Star-st
Opening on Sunda
at the Belfry Sh Sparkly girl band, Misstasia, will be helping Santa to open the Belfry’s FREE Christmas Grotto this year. As semi-finalists on Britain’s Got Talent 2015, they won the hearts of viewers – and Simon Cowell – and now they will be bringing everything princessy to the Belfry’s magical Arabian Nights themed Christmas celebrations. Stars from this year’s Harlequin Theatre panto, Aladdin, with Lee from mega-pop band, Steps, will also be joining in the fun during a whole day of free entertainment for all the family. Exciting activities from 11am – 4pm Including magic carpet rides, circus skills and belly dancer workshops, cookie decorating, facepainting, the chance to meet cute guests Camel and
his magical Arabian Nights themed Grotto at 12 noon. The Grotto will be open every day until Christmas Eve and children can visit for FREE and receive a FREE gift. All donations will go towards Shopmobility, the Belfry’s chosen Christmas charity. For Grotto opening times, see in-Centre or visit www.redhillbelfry.co.uk.
Meerkat and loads more fun. Santa’s Grand Grotto Opening – 12 noon Listen out for sleigh bells when Santa arrives for the spectacular opening of
More festive fun at the Belfry! Follow the clues in the Belfry’s exciting magical Arabian Nights story trail which runs from November right up to Christmas for your chance to win prizes!
RSPCA Cooking Contest for Kids Love cooking? Love winning prizes? Then enter Junior Compassionate Cook, the annual junior cookery video competition for six to twelve year olds. Backed by BBC One’s Celebrity Masterchef finalists - Andi Peters and Liz McClarnon - Junior Compassionate Cook has been launched in a bid to help children make the connection between the food they eat and the animals that produce it, in a fun and engaging way. It hopes to get kids thinking about the importance of choosing ethical products like RSPCA Assured and Fairtrade. Andi Peters, one of the competition judges told Primary Times, “I’m passionate about food and showing kids how much fun it is to cook is a great way of giving them important skills for life. So judging this year’s Junior Compassionate Cook is an absolute pleasure for me. The competition will get kids thinking about where their food comes from, how it was produced and the importance of choosing ethical products like RSPCA Assured and Fairtrade, which is a very good thing indeed.” Entering is easy. Contestants just need to film themselves making their favourite recipe using RSPCA Assured ingredients and upload them
20
Primary Times Christmas 2015
to www.rspcaassured.org.uk/cook. There are two categories: People’s Choice - voted for by viewers online - and the Judges’ Choice. The judges are looking for charismatic children with a talent for creating simple dishes.
cookware for themselves and their school. What will you make? n RSPCA Assured - previously Freedom Food - is the
RSPCA’s food label which can be found on eggs, meat and salmon products. RSPCA Assured means the product
The two lucky winners will each receive a Hamleys toy hamper worth £300 and four runners up will each receive a RSPCA Cooking Contest for Kids hamper worth £50. In addition they will all receive a trophy and a range of
has come from a farm inspected to strict RSPCA welfare standards. The label covers different types of farms including free-range, organic and indoor as long as the RSPCA’s standards can be met. For more information on RSPCA Assured visit www.rspcaassured.org.uk.
tudded Grotto
ay 29th November
hopping Centre! May the force be with you! On Saturday the 14th November, the fantastic Autism All Stars Star Wars Day comes to the Belfry! Bring the children to join in all the fun and to meet some exciting characters from everyone’s favourite film series. Brilliant Black Friday fun – 27th – 29th November The Belfry will be open until 7pm on Black Friday to kickstart a whole weekend of massive savings in stores. You’ll also get the chance to win instant prizes – just spend £20 or more in stores to get a go on Aladdin’s magic
lamp for your chance to win! Plus, enjoy free magic carpet rides in the Centre.
Nativity Day – Saturday 12th December Experience the wonder of a Christmas Nativity with real donkeys! The Belfry will bring the Nativity scene to life with Mary and Joseph in a stable and very gentle donkeys for youngsters to pet. Dress the children up to pose for their own Nativity photo with these adorable animals! Christmas Carols – Sunday 13th December Everyone is invited to enjoy Christmas
Carols at the Belfry which celebrates its 21st year at the Centre this Christmas. Join in this popular seasonal event for a traditional Carols service and readings from the Nativity story. Christmas shopping at the Belfry Shop local for all your Christmas gifts! The Centre will be open an extra hour (until 6pm) every day in December and 7pm (5pm Sundays) for the week before Christmas. There’s loads going on at the Centre over Christmas. Find out more at www.redhillbelfry.co.uk n
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
21
What’s going on in...
WOKING 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.
parents judged the staff as the school’s strongest attribute.
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 recent parent questionnaire the
Children can be supervised at school from 8am and, through our extensive after-school activities programme for Year 3 and above, until 6/6.30pm most evenings during the week. An after-school club is available from 4pm to 6pm (chargeable) for Pre-Prep and Year 3 children.
22
St. Andrew’s is very proud of its excellent on-site facilities including an all weather sports surface, sports pitches, tennis courts, cricket nets and a swimming pool. The Pre-Prep has also benefited from a superb playground.
We currently have scholarship opportunities available for September 2016. Closing date: 22nd January 2016. See our website for more details: www.st-andrews.woking.sch.uk
Primary Times Christmas 2015
Discover Mr Mulligan’s Pirate Golf at Hoebridge Golf Ahoy there, me hearty! Arrrr you ready for a
better way for your child to enjoy his or her
and covered driving range is the perfect
swashbuckling adventure? Then it’s time to
birthday than with one of our Marvellously
place to practice all day come rain or shine.
come and discover Mr Mulligan’s Pirate Golf
Adventurous Children’s Parties? They’re
in Woking. There you can play a rip-roaringly
great fun, great value and give your child a
The junior Golf School at Hoebridge has the
adventurous 18-hole outside course, but
special occasion to remember. Our parties
perfect facilities to develop young players,
beware: it is riddled with peril and dastardly
start with just a minimum of eight people.
from complete beginners through to elite
traps.
youth performers. Why not let the kids try Whilst at Hoebridge why not try one of our
one of our Junior Golf Camps which are run
This dastardly adventure is waiting for
other family activities. How about our family
throughout half terms, Easter and Summer
any brave soul that dares to visit us, but
friendly Par 3 Pitch and Putt course, perfect
holidays, where they can learn the basics of
remember to keep your eyes peeled and
for golfers from as young as six, with extra-
the game and even get to play 9 holes on the
your wits about you, there are many dangers
large putting holes making the game more
Par 3 Short course.
which may scupper your quest.
fun for everyone. You don’t need any of your own golfing equipment to play, all your need
Why not pop into the Hoebridge Café Bar
Steel your nerves to encounter a mighty old
is sensible footwear and we will provide the
and Grill for a warming hot chocolate with
pirate ship, treacherous streams, rickety rafts
rest. And for something totally different why
marshmallows or coffee and treat yourself
and the sharp, hungry jaws of crocodile.
not give FootGolf a go? A fun and crazy
to a one of our delicious cakes. It’s also a
mix of football and golf which is played over
great place to enjoy lunch or lite bite from
Suitable for young scallywags to old
9 holes of the Par 3 Short course with an
our new Winter menu. Whatever you choose,
buccaneers, the fun starts at 9am 7 days a
actual football – you certainly don’t need
the Hoebridge Café Bar & Grill is a great
week and we are open until late for those
to be a golfer to play this game. Kick off
place to come with friends or family and is
that prefer to play under the floodlights.
anytime from 12noon 7 days a week.
open 7 days a week from 7am. n
Mr Mulligan’s Pirate Golf also makes a great
If you don’t want to play on a golf course yet,
For more information visit
venue for children’s birthday parties. What
but want to give golf a go, our 34 bay floodlit
www.hoebridgegc.co.uk or call 01483 735338
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
23
Hoe Bridge School 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. The school was 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. Around this historical mansion, the school has undertaken another major building project to further enhance the facilities. The Pre-Prep department has been completely rebuilt creating more space and light for the youngest children and future projects will also create more space for the girls and boys in the Prep department. From September 2015, the Nursery will be extending the hours it currently offers to five full days. Alongside the academics
24
Primary Times Christmas 2015
sport, music, art and drama play a major part throughout the school and the boys and girls excel in many areas; end of year productions; sporting excellence achieving national success in netball and hockey, county success in cricket and football; individual musical success in national youth orchestras and choirs and a spectacular annual art exhibition. Scholarships in all these areas are regularly won. The atmosphere of every school is unique and the strength and attraction of Hoe Bridge lies in the atmosphere. Standards and targets are realistic, though set as high as possible, the bright are challenged and the less able supported, instilling confidence in all the boys and girls. The school has an extremely good reputation, is constantly striving to improve results and preserve and enrich the family atmosphere. n
The Winston Churchill School Woking’s specialist Sports College The heart of our school is the fifteen hundred students of whom we are justly proud, as they contribute fully to the life of The Winton Churchill School and the local community. Our superb team of highly motivated staff are fully committed to the education of the whole child and offer a rich, varied and engaging curriculum combined with an extra-curricular experience that is second to none. Students are rightly proud of their school, which provides a student centred, active learning approach, promoting independence, intellectual curiosity and a love of learning. Our blend of traditional values and a forward thinking approach to teaching and learning ensures that our students are challenged and supported to become successful individuals. We strive to ensure that, as they leave us at the age of 16, they are confident, well qualified and ready to move into the next stage of their education and to make a substantial contribution to their world.
I am delighted to be the Headteacher of such a purposeful, dynamic learning community that provides so many opportunities for our students. We enjoy productive relationships within the 2015 Learning Partnership and the Wellington College Independent State Schools Partnership, placing us at the heart of our learning communities, as well as working closely with our local primary schools and other organisations. The Goethe Institut has recently enabled Winston to become a Smart Choice German Partner, which will, again, increase opportunities for our students. If you would like a flavour of the Winston experience, then there is no better way to assess the school than to visit it on a working day; if you would like a tour please contact the school office or book a visit on our website. www.wcsc.org.uk Zoe Johnson-Walker Headteacher
Woking High School Providing the best possible start to secondary education the transition process by:
Woking High School is a very successful and popular secondary school. Our success is founded upon our commitment to academic excellence, the provision of outstanding pastoral care and the unparalleled opportunities provided for students to participate in and enjoy extra-curricular enrichment activities. These characteristics ensure an excellent education for every student and underpin our acclaimed transition programme.
• Personalised meetings between specialist staff and individual students and their families • Additional Induction days for vulnerable/ nervous students • A dedicated form tutor for every student • An established peer mentoring programme • A Good Citizens scheme • The provision of a secure, safe and caring learning environment • An emphasis on being valued as an individual and included in the Woking High School ‘family’ • A happy and harmonious school community.
Outstanding Pastoral Care We place our students at the heart of everything we do. All prospective Woking High School students are visited individually at their primary schools in the summer term of Year 6. They are supported in all phases of
What parents say: “From the moment we walked into reception we felt welcomed and well informed. Thank you for such a positive experience.” “The induction ‘experience’ was well set out, exciting and dynamic. My son realized that the next step in his education could be very exciting.” The standard of education, the memorable school visits and the dedication of all staff has been astonishing.”
Academic Excellence When transferring from primary to secondary school, we build on students’ prior learning and achievements from day one. The highest expectations of learning and behaviour, established at primary school, are embedded at Woking High School and provide the bedrock for future academic success. We work collaboratively and have excellent relationships with our primary school partners. We prioritise the academic needs of each student so that all are able to make the best possible start to their secondary education. This is achieved through: • Cross phase Year 6/7 curriculum work in English and Maths • Cross phase use of specialist secondary facilities and subject staff in MFL/ Technology/Science/PE/Computing • An established Gifted and Talented programme from Year 7 onwards with additional academic Induction days for the most able • An annual summer school to boost literacy and numeracy • An “Excel” nurture group to ensure all students are ‘secondary ready’ • A broad, balanced, stimulating curriculum • A school which is fully staffed by highly qualified, innovative subject specialists who provide an exceptional balance of support and challenge for each of our students.
through our renowned Windband and ensembles • Weekly Debating Society and public speaking competitions • Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme at Bronze and Silver levels • A vast range of offsite visits that challenge, inspire and motivate students • Opportunities to become involved with charity and voluntary work • An outstanding sports programme.
“You have taken a shy, quiet, eleven year old girl and turned her into a caring, confident, strong minded young woman – thank you.” What students say: “I am so glad I chose Woking High School because of the great teachers and students.” “From an excellent education to the nurturing experience I received when I first arrived; Woking High has been great!” “I’m really happy I chose Woking High. I had many choices of school but Woking High was the one that stood out to me.” “I like this school because it is all anyone could ask for; fun, educational and friendly.” Year 7 students Autumn 2015
Unparalleled Opportunities to develop as confident young people We believe that everyone has something special to contribute and we take every opportunity to provide all our students with a range of activities where they can build self-confidence and hone leadership skills. Our distinctive character programme, which focuses on the qualities of responsibility, respect, resilience, integrity, courtesy and enthusiasm, reinforces our enrichment and extra-curricular provision.
We extend a very warm welcome to all parents and prospective students, from any primary school year group, to visit our school on any day of the school year and experience the unique ‘spirit’ of Woking High School. n
• Our innovative Day 11 programme provides students with a vast range of dynamic and unique extra-curricular opportunities • Outstanding musical opportunities exist For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
25
26
Primary Times Christmas 2015
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
27
Theatre owS Family & Children’S Sh
Camberley theatre Tel: 01276 707600 ALADDIN
Book of Magic for Trainee Magicians. Then he sets off to Mr Zacoor’s Toy Shop to buy his spell book. But Mr
Cratchet, this is a heart-warming tale
every house. But when he reaches
full of plenty of Muppet mayhem
number ten he realises that he’s
suitable for the whole family. With
forgotten to do something rather
arty fun beforehand. Tickets: £5
important and he really, really, really
including hot chocolate and
needs a wee! TaleGate Theatre hit
marshmallows
the perfect combination of witty humour, fantastic music and extra brilliantly bouncy musical adaptation
THE LION, THE WITCH and the WARDROBE
of Nicholas Allan’s much loved
Friday 18th – Sunday 20th
book. Tickets: Adults: £13.50,
December 2015, 2:30pm &
Children £11.50, Family: 2
7pm. When Peter, Susan, Edmund,
Adults + 2 Children: £44.00
and Lucy stumble upon an enchanted
sparkle in this fabulously funny and
wardrobe in an old country mansion,
Zacoor is no ordinary shopkeeper, he’s a real life Sorcerer! And he
Monday 7th December 2015
has a very special job for Charlie.
- Sunday 3rd January 2016.
This delightful new show comes
Times vary. Aladdin’s in love with a
to life with an irresistible blend of
princess, but how is a mere laundry
music, puppetry and storytelling.
boy ever supposed to get noticed?
There’s also an enchanting toy shop
An ancient prophecy foretells that if
setting filled with all sorts of magical
a long forgotten magical lamp and
surprises! Little people aged 3 - 7 will
a sorcerer’s mystical ring are ever
love this funny, heart-warming tale
reunited, the owner will become the
but big people will have lots of fun,
most powerful person in the world.
too. The perfect treat for Christmas!
When the evil Abanazar retrieves the
Tickets: £8
ring and pays a visit to the Twankey family laundry, Aladdin’s life will
that have been left for him at
CINDERELLA
THE SNOW QUEEN
lamp and an enchanted carpet ride,
Tuesday 22nd December 2015,
will Aladdin marry the princess and
2pm & 7pm. Hold on to your hats
live happily ever after? Will Widow
and get ready to be blown away
Twankey ever get her laundry done?
by this enchanting new version of
Or will Abanazar take over the
Hans Christian Anderson’s fairy-
world in a cruel twist of fate. Come
tale adventure. This show features
to Camberley Theatre’s magical
magical songs, beautiful costumes,
pantomime this year to make all your
scenery and a host of colourful
Christmas wishes come true. Full of
characters. Wrap up warm and join
fun, laughs and audience interaction,
us for this delightful laugh-out-loud
this brand new pantomime penned
retelling of a timeless chronicle that
by Camberley’s favourite dame is
will melt your heart. A fun, frosty,
not to be missed. The perfect show
fast paced adventure for the whole
for all the family! Tickets: £15.95
family. Adults £12, Children £10,
- £19.95.
Family Ticket £40 (2 adults and
animals speak and mythical creatures
December 2015. Times vary.
roam. A magical world called Narnia.
Polish those glass slippers, dust off
Join our resident youth theatre,
that pumpkin and get ready to have
Man in the Moon, for a fantastical
a ball! Welcome to the world of
adventure of sparkling spells and an
fairy tales, where poor Cinderella
epic battle between good and evil as
is doomed to live un-happily ever
C. S. Lewis’ classic story is brought to
after with her two horrible Ugly
life in a wonderful new production.
Sisters! Cinderella manages with the
Tickets: £10.50
help of her silly friend Buttons and a magical Fairy Godmother to make with amazement as her pumpkin
epsom playhouse
and white mice are transformed
Tel: 01372 742555
into a beautiful coach and horses in
ball before midnight? Come and join
SANTA CLAUS and the NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
in the festive fun as Dorking Halls
Friday 4th December –
and Enchanted Entertainment bring
Thursday 24th. Times vary.
the world’s best known and most
With songs, stories, a meet and
loved pantomime to life. Packed with
greet with Santa & a free gift! It’s
great songs, amazing dance routines
Christmas Eve and whilst most
and plenty of laughter, this is a
children are hanging up their
tremendous treat for all the family
stockings, there are a few boys
you won’t want to miss! Tickets:
and girls in the Playhouse who are
£17.00, Concessions £15.00
not! They don’t believe in Santa
and with Christmas morning fast
this true rags to riches story, but will Cinderella remember to leave the
approaching cheeky elves Charlie
2 children under 16
electric theatre cranleigh arts Tel: 01483 2780000 THE SORCERER’S APPRENTICE
Tel: 01483 444789
dorking halls Tel: 01306 881717
Saturday 12th December
FATHER ChristMAS NEEDS A WEE
2015, 11.30am & Sunday 13th
Sunday 6th December 2015,
December 2015, 2.30pm.
2:30pm. Following last year’s
Charlie Hubble is a little boy with
sold-out hit shows, Father Christmas
a very big dream, he wants to be a
is back on his rounds… and he still
world-class magician. So, he saves
needs a wee! Father Christmas
up his pocket money to buy The Big
eats and drinks the tasty treats
28
Primary Times Christmas 2015
to another world: a world where
Saturday 19th - Monday 28th
all her dreams come true! Watch
change forever. After a hunt for the
they discover that it’s a gateway
THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL
and Kara must help Santa prove that he is indeed real! With magic tricks, songs and stories, can they make them believe before it’s time to board Santa’s sleigh and deliver the presents? A truly unforgettable
Thursday 3rd December 2015,
experience which includes bubbles
5pm. The Muppet characters tell
and the magical moment when
their version of the classic tale of an
snowflakes fall over the audience,
old and bitter miser’s redemption on
this interactive show is a must-see
Christmas Eve. Narrated by Gonzo
over the festive season. As an added
the Great (as Charles Dickens) and
Christmas treat, all of the good boys
starring Michael Caine as Ebeneezer
and girls in the audience will meet
Scrooge and Kermit the Frog as Bob
Santa after the show and receive a
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
29
special present of their own. For all
is whisked away on a fairy tale
friends, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion
children ages 2+ Tickets: £10.50
adventure by her Nutcracker prince
on their fantastic adventures along the
into a magical world of swirling
Yellow Brick Road in the Land of Oz, as
snowflakes, Sugar Plum fairies, and
they seek out the Emerald City. Enjoy
toys that come to life. Tickets: £29
again those fabulous songs as Dorothy
SLEEPING BEAUTY
- £39 Child reduction of £10.
meets the Wizard and battles with the
Friday 11th December 2015 -
Sunday 13th December –
Wicked Witch of the West in order
Sunday 10th January 2016. The
Sunday 3rd January 2016.
to return home. Tickets: Adults
tale of the sleeping beauty - sleeping
Times vary. The Epsom Playhouse
£18.00, Concessions £15.00,
under the spell of a wicked witch
Under 16s £10.00
until her Prince Charming comes to
BEAUTY and the BEAST
presents Pantomime 2015...Beauty
harlequin theatre
and The Beast. Will good overcome
Tel: 01737 276 500
evil? Will Beauty find true love? Can
new victoria Tel: 0844 871 7645
wake her up. Anita Dobson and Katie Price share the role of the Wicked
the Beast break free of his curse?
SINGALONG FROZEN
DICK WHITTINGTON
Will French Frank ever be funny?
Saturday 5th December 2015,
Wednesday 16th - Thursday
Spillers Pantomimes’ re-telling of
9.30am & 11.45am. Experience
24th December Times vary
this enchanting classic story is full of
Frozen, the hit musical comedy from
Join Dick Whittington and his friends
fun, music and panto magic... Join
Walt Disney Animation Studios, like
as they set off on their colourful
HORRIBLE HISTORIES INCREDIBLE INVADERS
us for an unforgettable adventure!
never before in an all-new, full-length
adventures. Prepare to boo King Rat,
Tuesday 26th – Friday 30th
Tickets: From £12.50
Sing-Along Edition! Follow the lyrics
marvel at Dame Sarah the cook’s
January 2016. The Celts are
with a bouncing Frozen snowflake.
outrageous wardrobe and fall in love
crunched when the Ruthless Romans
Join Anna as she sets off on an epic
with Alice Fitzwarren as their journey
invade Britain! Can crazy Caratacus
journey—teaming up with rugged
takes them beyond their wildest
save the nation? Hide behind Hadrian’s
mountain man Kristoff and a snowman
dreams. Featuring a professional
Wall. See the Savage Saxons smash
named Olaf—to find her sister Elsa,
cast, professional dancers, dazzling
their way in. Find out who’s who
whose icy powers have trapped the
costumes, stunning scenery and
at Sutton Hoo! Will you survive the
kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter.
of course plenty of audience
Vicious Vikings as they sail into the
Its pure enchantment—and full of fun
participation. Tickets: £16.50
audience? It’s a thousand year journey
for the whole family! Tickets from £2
Adults £13.50 Concessions
with Incredible Invaders! Age Advisory:
and Children
6+ Tickets: £12.75 - £17.75
G-Live Tel: 0844 7701 797 SANTA CLAUS and the NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS Wednesday 9th – Thursday 24th December 2015. Times vary. It’s
ALADDIN
Christmas Eve and whilst most children
Friday 11th December 2015 -
are hanging up their stockings, there
Sunday 3rd January 2016. Times
are a few boys and girls who are not!
vary. It’s a jewel encrusted family
They don’t believe in Santa and with
pantomime set to dazzle and delight
Christmas morning fast approaching
so fasten your seat belts for a magical
cheeky elves Charlie and Kara must
ride of mystery, sparkling romance and
help Santa prove that he is indeed real!
dazzling adventure with this year’s lavish
With magic tricks, songs and stories,
production of Aladdin, where audiences
can they make them believe before it’s
can escape to a world of magic, where
time to board Santa’s sleigh and deliver
adventure beckons on this pantomime
the presents? A truly unforgettable
flight of spectacle, slapstick and song!
experience which includes bubbles and
Come and cheer on Aladdin, Wishee
the magical moment when snowflakes
Washee and Widow Twankey as they do
fall over the audience, this interactive
battle with the evil magician Abanazar.
show is a must-see over the festive
Will our handsome hero find true love
season. As an added Christmas treat,
with the delectable Princess Jasmine?
all of the good boys and girls in the
Maybe with a little help from the Slave
audience will meet Santa after the
of the Ring and the Genie of the Lamp
show and receive a special present of
we’ll reach a happy ever after ending!
their own. For all children ages
Tickets from £13.50
2+. Tickets from £12.50.
THE NUTCRACKER Boxing Day - Saturday 26th December 2015, 7.30pm.
leatherhead theatre Tel: 01372 365141
Sunday 27th December
THE WIZARD OF OZ
2015, 2.30pm & 7.30pm.
Wednesday 9th - Saturday 12th
This delightfully festive tale is the
December 2015. Somewhere over
perfect introduction to ballet. Clara
the rainbow, join Dorothy and her new
30
Primary Times Christmas 2015
Fairy in this traditional pantomime. Tickets from £12
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
31