Primary Times Surrey - Christmas 2015

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.“

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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

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Primary Times Christmas 2015

For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net

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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

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Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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