e e fr
E UID G ON S ’ T A WH
for parents, teachers and children
in Surrey
Christmas 2016
28th November 2016 - 30th January 2017
SANTA FIR
CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
the home of fresh Christmas Trees See page 3 for more details
Plus
Roundabout, Pinboard, Kids in the Kitchen, Theatre, Mobile Phones & Children and much more!
Education
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Bookstore In Surrey
Second Floor, Richardson House, 21/24 New St, Worcester. WR1 2DP. Tel: 01905 723011 Fax: 01905 780103 Publishing Editor Dawn Pardoe - 01905 727909 Design and Production Paul Blyth 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
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Festive Reading ..........................................................................................
Roundabout
10
What’s On ..........................................................................................
Pinboard 16 ..........................................................................................
Kids in the Kitchen
18
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Meet the Modern Family
19
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Theatre 20 Who’s Treading The Boards? ..........................................................................................
Mobile Phones and kids
With Christmas coming many children will have the latest mobile phone on their wish list. But should they get one? Many parents think that giving their child a phone is a safety precaution. If they miss the bus, or feel scared, or threatened, then they can call home for help. Well, yes, in theory. And perhaps if you give your child a phone which is just a phone (yes, you can still get them) it will enhance their safety. For younger children and Tweens (8-12 year olds approximately) basic old-style mobile phones are probably the best idea. However, what most children want is a smart phone. The problem with giving your child a smart phone is that you are giving them access to the internet and social media. While many mobile phone carriers
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With over 35 years’ experience in family breakdown, we are able to offer support through: Family Mediation, including offering your child a voice in the separation process Separated Parenting Information Programmes a course aimed at understanding and ameliorating the damage your conflict can do to your child Supervised Contact Centre offering sessions for those who need support when seeing a child. Submit an application for any of our services online at www.sfms.org.uk Or call us on 01372 224730 to find out more
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Primary Times Christmas 2016
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5
will put in place settings that limit access to various sites, free Wi-Fi, which is widely available, will override those settings. With a smart phone your child will never be more than a few clicks away from content that is not age appropriate. It is essential that you discuss this with your child before giving them access to the internet. And it is essential that it is an ongoing conversation. Most social media don’t allow children to sign up but this does not stop them. There are several aspects of social media that can be troubling for both children and parents. First, if all of your child’s friends are on a particular social media site there is a certain degree of peer pressure for them to also join. Once part of social media peer pressure can become even more potent. We’ve all heard stories of ‘Cyber bullying’ and quite a lot of that occurs via social media. As a parent you need to know what sites your child is on and you need to be able to access their accounts to see what is being discussed or said. Many Tweens and teens (and indeed many adults) live their lives on and through social media. Parents need to discuss the disconnect with what people are posting and what is, in fact, real. A lot of distress
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Primary Times Christmas 2016
can come from children thinking that their lives are boring or insignificant compared to the grandiose boasts and pictures posted by their pals. And for any parent who has read the ‘reader comment’ section in a daily newspaper, you know just how quickly things can turn when people post online. Sexting has also been in the news a lot as it can lead directly to cyber bullying. Before you let your child loose with access to the internet you must impress upon them one thing above all others. Once they hit the send button – be it a text, a social media post, a picture, an email, once it enters the cyber sphere, they have lost all control over it. Once something enters the cyber world although it may subsequently be deleted – there will always be traces and they’re there for good. Ask your children do they really want naked pictures of themselves floating around the internet for their teachers, friends, neighbours and Grannies to see? It’s the same with offensive comments and language. Things that are done ‘in fun’ can come back with serious repercussions. For everyone, parents and children, there are two things that need to be remembered
before posting anything. One, once it’s online it’s ‘out there’ FOREVER. Second, do not post something that you would not say or do in public. Another consequence of your child being on social media is what is generally now referred to as ‘FOMO’ (Fear of Missing Out, something that affects adults as much as children). A recent survey by DAUK (Digital Awareness UK) revealed that youngsters as young as 9 checked their mobile phones up to ten times a night. In the same survey half of 11 – 18 year olds admitted to checking social media on their phone when they were supposed to be asleep. Obviously if your child is losing sleep checking social media there is a knock-on effect the following day and 68% of participants said that subsequent tiredness affected their school work. Another thing parents about to equip their child with a mobile phone need to think seriously about is cost as usually they will be the ones paying the bill. n Anne Marie Scanlon
Developing
potential
for life St. Andrew’s School was founded in 1937 and is a respected and thriving coeducational 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.
The curriculum is broad and places great emphasis on music, sport and the arts. In our recent ISI Inspection, (January 2016), we were extremely proud to be rated ‘excellent’ in all areas. 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.
St. Andrew’s has excellent onsite facilities including an all weather sports surface, sports pitches, tennis courts, cricket nets and a swimming pool. Children can be supervised at school from 8am and, through our extensive after-school activities programme for Year 3 and above, until 6/6.30 pm most evenings during the week. An after-school club is available from 4pm to 6pm for Pre-Prep and Year 3 children. Don’t take our word for it! Come to our next open morning and have a guided tour by one of our senior pupils. See our advertisement or visit our website: www.st-andrews.woking.sch.uk n
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
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Primary Times Christmas 2016
a free helpline for everyone
Upset? Frustrated? Stressed? Call our free helpline to talk through any problems in confidence
We’re here to listen freephone: 0808 800 5678 or email: help@familyline.org.uk Company Number: 7675246
Registered Charity: 1143408
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
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hat’s On an
n Rou
W
hen
d WINTER TOURS
Ham House and Garden, Ham Street, Ham, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey TW10 7RS. Time: Gates open 10am. Start 12noon. End 3pm. Discover more about Ham House and its history during the winter months. Choose from a selection of new tours and demonstrations focusing on different elements of Ham House’s history. Booking not needed. General Admission prices apply.
fW
Monday 28th November – Thursday 8th December
o
NOVEMBER
Surrey GU21 4AA. Time: 10:30am
well as festive food and drink. Cost:
to 5pm. This exhibition highlights
£109 plus VAT.
the inventive journey through the
ily Dia ry Fam
R
Yo ur
d
ut o b a
dimensions. Claire’s Christmas cards will also be on sale. Price: Free.
Monday 28th November – Saturday 24th December FATHER CHRISTMAS Bocketts Farm Park, Young Street, Leatherhead KT22 9BS. Times vary. Enjoy a magical and festive family visit to Father Christmas in his traditional hay barn workshop. The visit begins as the children hop on board the Santa Express trailer with one of the elves for a short ride from the Farm Park. Up to 2 adults may accompany each child by walking alongside the trailer,
past, present and future of the ever-changing medium of sequential art. Travel back to 3,000 year-old
Tuesday 29th November – Friday 2nd December
and explore today’s manga, graphic
THE BIG GIVE CHRISTMAS CHALLENGE
novels and digital comics. Highlights
Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village, Down
include the first comic magazine from
Lane, Compton Surrey GU3 1DQ.
1825 and Britains’s pioneering satirical
Time: 12pm. Support the Art for All
artist William Hogwarth. Price: £5.
learning programme and introduce
hieroglyphics. Enjoy The Beano, Eagle
Monday 28th November - Saturday 7th January
thousands of disadvantaged, vulnerable and socially isolated people to the inspirational and life-changing world of art. By
WINTER EXHIBITION
donating between 29 November and
New Ashgate Gallery Waggon Yard
2 December your donation could
Farnham Surrey GU9 7PS. Time:
be worth double. Help to ensure
10am to 5pm. This Christmas season
this vital programme continues for
brings more than 50 artists and
another year. To learn more and
makers to the gallery. Find unusual
to donate, visit wattsgallery.
craft-led gifts as well as inspiration on
org.uk/the-big-give
everything from original printmaking With work by Angela A’Court,
CHRISTMAS CARRIAGE RIDES IN WINDSOR GREAT PARK
Mychael Barratt, Tim Burns, John
The Savill Garden, Wick Lane,
Duffin, Judit Esztergomi, Sally Anne
Englefield Green, Egham, Surrey TW20
Fitter, Philip Green, Kathryn Hinton,
0UJ. Enjoy a Christmas treat for the
Finn Hopson, Catherine Hyde, Claire
whole family in Windsor. Our 4/6
Ireland, Peter Jackman, Jenny Jewitt-
seat Carriage is beautifully decorated
Harris, Faye Mayo, Tessa Pearson,
with garlands & twinkling lights for
Garry Pereira, Midori Takaki, Yo
Christmas & New Year! The Horse will
Thom and Tony Watson. Price: Free.
of course be wearing Antlers! We have
www.newashgate.org.uk
Easy Rise steps, plus cosy lap rugs for
to unique British jewellery designs.
Tuesday 29th
your comfort. Rides are popular, so early booking recommended, its pay cash to the driver on the day and as
group size is a maximum of 15
LONDON TO SALISBURY VIA THE SURREY HILLS
children. Once through the magical
Guildford Station, Station Approach,
day before to confirm we are running.
gates, you’ll gather as a group in his
Guildford Surrey GU1 4UT. Time:
Cost: 30 min tour £45 per carriage 60
workshop, set deep in a traditional
10:50am. This Christmas, residents
min tour £100 per carriage Rides start
hay barn. In the grotto, each child
from across Surrey will be able to
from the Visitor Centre at The Savill
will meet Father Christmas and
experience the magic of steam travel
Garden TW20 0UJ 4 miles south of
receive a wrapped present from
as The Cathedrals Express makes a
Windsor Castle. Plus its FREE entry to
him. The visit from start to finish
special festive journey to Salisbury
the garden in December.
takes approximately 15 -20 minutes.
Christmas Market. On Tuesday 29
Bookings to visit Father Christmas
November, the train, set to be hauled
can be made online and early
by 34046 Braunton, will depart
on a large scale. Claire shows that the
booking is strongly recommended.
from Guildford at 10:50, taking a
Wednesday 30th November - Saturday 3rd December
tiny wildflower or bright beetle in a
Tickets cost £8.50 per child in
scenic route across the Surrey Hills,
ON THE RAZZLE
grass verge is like a jewel amongst the
addition to Farm Entry.
calling at London Victoria, East
The Electric Theatre, Onslow Street,
undergrowth. Claire’s work explores
www.bockettsfarm.co.uk
Croydon, Redhill, Reigate, Shalford,
Guildford Surrey GU1 4SZ. Time:
Guildford and Wokingham to pick
7:45pm. On the Razzle bounces with
up passengers, arriving in Salisbury
joy and comedy chaos. Wit, slapstick
at 11:15. Passengers will have about
& double entendres explode in a
two hours to explore its bustling
dazzling display of flapdoodle. Two
Monday 28th November - Friday 16th December REVEALING THE NATURE AROUND US The Guildford Institute Ward Street Guildford GU1 4LH. Time: 9am to 5pm. This exhibition will showcase local artist, Claire Harrison’s brightly coloured oil paintings and intricate drawings, highlighting the miniscule
the miniature and microscopic of both the floral and insect world. Fascinated with camouflage, she cleverly hides insects by using tone to conceal them.
which travels very slowly. Each
Monday 28th November – Saturday 31st December
its weather permitting we call you the
THE STORY OF BRITISH COMICS SO FAR
Christmas Market. The market boasts
shop clerks, in the absence of their
beasts in a field, the audience will
over 80 wooden chalets, selling a
boss, abandon their duties and head
need to pause to find all the hidden
The Lightbox Chobham Road Woking
wonderful selection of local gifts, as
to Vienna, ‘on the razzle’. Propelled
Just as you need to search to find mini
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Primary Times Christmas 2016
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
11
R into a chaotic series of high-jinx and wild adventures, the hapless pair run ragged as they try to avoid discovery. Entertainment on a grand scale perfectly gift wrapped by the master of farce, Tom Stoppard. Price: £15, Seniors & Under 16s £12.50
part include; Surrey Show Choir, Woodmansterne Primary School Choir, Jenny Green Jazz Singer, Theo the Magician, Mikey JC- Michael Buble Christmas Tribute, Caribbean Band, Crafty Faces Face Painting, CADA Stars, Street Entertainers plus many more wonderful talented acts. Free event
Friday 2nd ST JOHN’S CHORAL SOCIETY CONCERT St John’s School, Epsom Road, Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 8SP. The Old Chapel becomes La Scala for one night only on the first Friday in December. The choral society sing well-known choruses from operas
DECEMBER Mondays & Thursdays throughout December BUGGYFIT Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, RH5 6BD. Time: Start 10am. End 11am. Meet outside the Cowshed Café at 9.45am. ‘Buggyfit’ is the ultimate fitness class for mums and babies. Buggyfit sessions cater for all fitness levels to help women get back into shape following the birth of their new arrival. This post natal exercise program aims to help strengthen and stabilise the post pregnancy body, specifically targeting those weaker muscles. Classes vary each week to always keep exercises interesting and fun in the fabulous fresh air and beautiful grounds of Polesden Lacey. Sessions are £6 each or £50 for ten, book by emailing debsbuggyfit@outlook.com (Booking not essential).
Thursday 1st BANSTEAD CHRISTMAS COMMUNITY EVENT High Street, Banstead SM7 2NB. Time: 5pm – 8pm. The Banstead Business Guild (BBG) have organised a Christmas Community Event where there will be plenty for the whole family including a visit from Father Christmas on his sleigh. Many of the shops will have special ‘on the night only’ offers and will have in store activities so there will be plenty to do and see. Special guests taking
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Primary Times Christmas 2016
spanning the centuries, including Bizet: Habanera and March of the Toreadors (Carmen), Donizetti: Chorus of Wedding Guests (Lucia di Lammermoor), Mascagni: Easter Hymn (Cavalleria Rusticana), Mozart: Priests’ Chorus (Die Zauberflöte), Puccini: Humming Chorus (Madam Butterfly) and Wagner: Bridal Chorus (Lohengrin) among many others. It promises to be an exciting evening that will have you humming along! Time: 7.30pm. Cost: £10 (concessions £8) which includes a complimentary drink.
Saturday 3rd CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS CHOCOLATE CRAFT DAYS Elf Workshop, The Friary, North Street, Guildford, GU1 4YL. The Friary Guildford will be holding a series of children’s Christmas chocolate craft days in a special Elf Workshop at the shopping centre across three days in December. Taking place on Saturday 3rd, Saturday 17th and Friday 23rd December, between 11am and 4pm, the younger shoppers will be invited to the Elf Workshop to decorate and customise little chocolate bars using coloured icing, jelly sweets and mini chocolates. With the help from their parents and a host of loveable elf characters, the children can take a break from shopping and have fun making their own chocolate creation to take home and enjoy. Event also taking place on Saturday 17th and Friday 23rd. For more information, visit www.thefriaryguildford.com
Sunday 4th CHRISTMAS MARKET High Street, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 2LA. Time: 10am – 4pm. Christmas Market: Christmas gifts for all the family. Stalls selling a variety of goods, from baby clothing to unique crafts. Also street entertainment and Santa’s Grotto. Free event
Tuesday 6th THE CATHEDRALS EXPRESS TO ELY CHRISTMAS CAROLS Horsham Station Dorking (Main) Station Leatherhead Station Surrey RH12 1RD. Time: 8:40am to 10:30pm. Join us as we wind through Surrey, past London and across the Fens as we make our way to Ely’s Cathedral, taking you to a specially organised Carol service. Experience enchanting boys’ choir which has been part of the English Choral tradition since the mid-16th century or visit the unique Octagon Tower and the famous Stained Glass Museum. Afterwards there will be time to visit the pretty town centre or riverside. For this trip our vintage carriages will be beautifully decorated for Christmas, a mince pie and mulled wine will be served to all classes.
surviving by ‘Borrowing’ items from the ‘Human Beans’ who live in the home above. Arrietty is desperate to explore life outside her family home and her curiosity sends her exploring upstairs… The Yvonne Arnaud Youth Theatre group Act Three tackles this exciting adaptation of Mary Norton’s timeless children’s classic The Borrowers. Price: £12 / u18s £10
Thursday 8th Thursday 15th CHRISTMAS READINGS Museum of Farnham 38 West Street Farnham Surrey GU9 7DX. Time: 7pm. Rosemary Wisbey, Caryl Griffith, Gordon Dearing and Christopher Reeks present ‘A Partridge in a Pear Tree’, a miscellany of thoughts about Christmas gifts. Booking essential, ticket includes a glass of wine and mince pie. Price: £7
YOUNG CURATORS: SCULPTURE and HENRY MOORE The Lightbox, Chobham Road Woking Surrey GU21 4AA. Time: 4:30pm to 6:30pm. Young Curators is for 13-19 year olds who are interested in learning more about art and how galleries and museums work. This is a great
www.steamdreams.co.uk
opportunity to meet new people, get
Wednesday 7th
on your CV. In this next project, Young
GHOST TOURS Ham House and Garden, Ham Street, Ham, Richmond-upon-Thames, Surrey TW10 7RS. 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. Booking Essential. Phone: 0844 2491895. Not recommended for children under 12. Assistance Dogs only are welcome. Event also taking place on Wednesday 14th and
creative and have something unique Curators will explore the work of Henry Moore and learn how to create sculptures inspired by his love of natural forms. Working with professional artist Russell Jakubowski, you will use clay, plaster, and wire, so be prepared to get messy! The sculptures created will then be displayed alongside the ‘Henry Moore: A Natural History’ exhibition. Price: £25
Friday 9th TODDLER TRAILS AND TALES – THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA Gatton Park, Reigate, Surrey RH2
Wednesday 21st.
0TW. Time: 10 am - 11.30am. The
Thursday 8th Saturday 10th
- enjoy the story and go for a walk
THE BORROWERS The Mill Studio Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Millbrook Guildford Surrey GU1 3UX. Time: Various, see website. Borrowers live in hidden places – inside walls and under floors,
Tiger who came to Tea by Judith Kerr around the park to bring it to life. Cost: £5.00 per child.
Saturday 10th ILLUMINATED DECORATIONS Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village, Down Lane, Compton, Surrey, GU3
Higgins Aquatics Swim School Seamus Higgins owner of Higgins Aquatics, has been a swim teacher/coach for 20 years.
The lessons must be fun and they must also challenge the swimmer.
He started swimming at a young age and swam competitively until he was 16 years old. He swam at all levels for his club (county to national). He has worked with some fantastic teachers and coaches in the past and hopes to bring this experience with him to his lessons.
At Higgins Aquatics they pride themselves on developing four good strokes. They run lessons on a Saturday afternoon at Aberdour School (2pm - 5pm).
He has a passion for teaching children to swim. All of his lessons are based on two things:
All of their teachers are ASA trained and CRB checked. They hope to see you at the pool soon! 07881 650 405 info@higginsaquatics.co.uk
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
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R 1DQ. Time: 10:30am to 4pm. Learn about Victorian Christmas traditions before creating elaborate paper decorations. Use copper wire and electricity to make them sparkle. Led by artist and illustrator Stacey Allan. Price: £15
FAMILY FESTIVE FUN Ashtead Park Garden Centre, Pleasure Pit Road, Ashtead, Epsom and Ewell, KT21 1NA. Time: 11am – 3pm. Meet Santa in his traditional grotto! Craft, face painting, bouncy castle, local choirs and on Sunday cuddle a miniature donkey, goat, sheep, bantam, or rabbit. Tickets £5, guide prices only. Proceeds to the Oak Centre for Children, Royal Marsden Cancer Charity
FESTIVE JUMPERS RACEDAY Lingfield Park Resort, Racecourse Road, Lingfield, Surrey RH7 6PQ. Time: Gates open: 10.30am, First race: 12.00pm, Last race: 15.25pm. Put on your dodgy Christmas jumpers and join us on Saturday 10th December for our Festive Jumpers
churches and other buildings were decorated with rosemary and bays, holly and ivy; Christmas Day church services were widely attended, gifts were exchanged at New Year, and Christmas boxes were distributed to servants, tradesmen and the poor; great quantities of brawn, roast beef, ‘plum-pottage’, minced pies and special Christmas ale were consumed, and the populace indulged themselves in dancing, singing, card games and stage-plays But would it turn out as they planned! Entry £5 per child (includes 1 accompanying adult)
WILD CLUB! Sayers Croft Trust, Ewhurst, Surrey, Surrey GU6 7SS. Time: 10am – 12pm.
Tuesday 13th CAROL COFFEE CONCERT Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill, Guildford
will also be open for family swimming from 10.00am - 12.00noon. To book
GU2 7UP. Time: Concert 11.15am – 12
your Christmas Day swimming or ice
noon. As part of our monthly series
skating tickets in advance, please visit
of free morning coffee concerts we
our online box office. Cost: £6.00 per
invite you to celebrate Christmas with
person (plus skate hire if necessary)
the Choir from Rydes Hill School and concert will take place in the heated
Monday 26th & Tuesday 27th
accessible Marquee on the green at
RACING AT KEMPTON
Guildford Cathedral and is particularly
Kempton Park Racecourse, Staines
suited for seniors, their family and
Road East, Sunbury on Thames,
friends, though everyone is welcome.
Middlesex TW16 5AQ. Gates open
The concert has been organised with
10am | First race (26th) 12.50pm
Age UK Surrey. Free event.
(27th) 1pm | Last race 3.45pm. The
the Guildford Cathedral Singers. The
Sunday 18th FAMILY CHRISTMAS CAROLS
32Red Winter Festival is a must for any jump fans during the festive season. Day one of the two day showpiece,
Wild Club! at The Sayers Croft Trust
Hatchlands Park, East Clandon,
for 0-5 years 2nd Saturday of each
on Boxing Day, features three Grade 1
Guildford GU4 7RT. Time: 12noon –
month – next one 10th December!
races including the Festival’s flagship
1pm. Sing along to your favourite carols,
Bring your little ones along to explore
enjoy festive family readings and enjoy
race, the 32Red King George VI Chase
their wild side (on activities such as
hand bell ringing by the Arford Bells.
pond dipping, bug hunting and shelter
Cost: Adults £8 Children (3-16) £4
building) at our free drop in sessions held here every month. FREE Event. www.sayerscrofttrust.org.uk
Sunday 11th FAMILY CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Wednesday 21st – Saturday 24th SANTA’S VICTORIAN PARLOUR Haslemere Educational Museum, 78 High Street, Haslemere GU27
St Peter’s Church, Windsor Street,
2LA. Times vary. Come and visit the
Chertsey Surrey KT16 8AT. Time: 3pm
museum and see Santa as he takes
-5pm. Come and celebrate Christmas
time out before Christmas to relax in
with the Bourne Concert Band of
his charming Victorian parlour. Your
Woking! This FREE family concert
little ones can tell him all their special
followed by coffee and mince pies will
Christmas wishes and each child will
get you in the festive spirit. Retiring
receive a gift to take home. Our shop
collection in aid of Woking Hospice.
will be open too so get Christmas all
FREE Family Christmas Concert.
wrapped up and find gifts for all your
Raceday! With 7 thrilling horse races
friends and family – why not treat
and prizes for the best jumper!
Monday 12th
Advance adults tickets are £17.
FAMILY CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Children under 18 go free!
Christ Church, Jubilee Square,
www.lingfieldpark.co.uk
Museum Members £4 / Non Members
Woking GU21 6YG. Time: 7.30-
£5 (no need to book, just turn up!)
ENGLISH CIVIL WAR CHRISTMAS
warmer climate the 4 swimming pools
9.30pm. Woking’s Epworth Choir
them to a Museum gift membership, the perfect present that lasts all year!
will be performing its annual Family
Sunday 25th
Christmas Carol Concert at Christ
- won by greats Desert Orchid, Best Mate, Kauto Star and, most recently, Cue Card. Gather friends and family at this festive time and head along for one of the biggest days of racing in the whole calendar with a whole host of star horses set to be on show from both the UK and Ireland. www.kempton.thejockeyclub.co.uk
Wednesday 28th THE RAMBLERS WALK Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, RH5 6BD. Time: Start 9:30am. End 11pm. Come and join us on a wonderful walk around the Polesden Lacey estate. Join our volunteer leader Catherine Williams on a nice stroll around our countryside. It is for anyone and everyone capable of doing an hour and a half walk. The walks take place on the 4th Wednesday of each month. Dogs are welcome, but MUST be on a lead at all times. Booking not needed. General Admission Prices Apply.
Bourne Hall Museum Kids Club,
Church, They will be joined this
XMAS DAY SWIMMING and ICE SKATING
Spring Street, Ewell, Surrey KT17
year by St Andrew’s School Choir.
Guildford Spectrum Leisure Complex,
1UF. Time: 1pm to 2.30pm. During
The concert is being held in aid of
Parkway, Guildford GU1 1UP. Time:
the seventeenth century, as now,
LinkAble, a Woking-based charity
10am – 12 noon. It’s going to be a
Christmas was one of the most
serving those with learning disabilities
white Christmas at Spectrum this
important dates in the calendar,
in the local community. This much-
year as the leisure complex opens
PAINTING FOR UNDER 5’S
both as a religious festival and as
loved annual carol concert conducted
its ice rink on Christmas Day from
The Lightbox, Chobham Road Woking,
an important holiday period during
by the choir’s Music Director, Michael
10.30am - 12.00noon. Whatever the
Surrey GU21 4AA. Time: 11.00am –
which English men and women
Waldron, will include uplifting carols
weather outside, there will be flurries
11.45am. Dress for mess and join us for
indulged in a range of traditional
and Christmas music to celebrate.
of snow guaranteed inside the rink!
some painting fun. All materials included.
pastimes. During the twelve days of
Cost: Adults £12 Children £6
Tickets will be limited so booking is
Advance booking required. Cost: £3 per
essential! For those who prefer a
child,| Accompanying adult goes free.
a seventeenth-century Christmas,
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Primary Times Christmas 2016
JANUARY Friday 13th
FITNESS • CONFIDENCE • DISCIPLINE RESPECT • FUN • LISTENING SKILLS CO-ORDINATION • FOCUS We also have classes for Adults Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts and offer 1-2-1 training
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
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POTTY MOUTH
There’s a whole section of the internet and social media devoted to the ‘Cute Things Kids Say’. But sometimes the things that come out of your child’s mouth are far from cute. Almost every parent has a horror story about their pre-school child saying something wholly inappropriate in a public place. When he was four my son had an accident and as I was wheeling him and his newly cast foot through hospital corridors we passed a man in a wheelchair. “Mummy,” my son said loudly, “why does that man have no legs?” I replied, quietly, that maybe the man was in an accident. I looked over and mouthed sorry and the man waved away my apologies saying “it’s a reasonable question.” With smaller children what they’re saying isn’t necessarily bad, they’re simply asking questions which is how children learn. It’s just that some questions aren’t so reasonable. Your child saying “Why is that man so fat?” or “Why does that lady smell?” loudly is embarrassing for you, the large gentleman and the oddly scented woman. In these situations, it’s best to be calm, get your child as far away from the situation as possible and explain to them, quietly, why its rude to point out people’s differences. It is important that you don’t shame your child for being tactless. Tact is a learned behaviour. No matter how age appropriate you try to keep things at home your children are at school with children who have older siblings and inevitably they’re introduced to ideas they’re too young to fully comprehend. Like it or loathe it we live in a very sexualised culture and by the time your child is in Year 4 they will encounter a lot of sex talk in the playground. This is quite shocking for parents who grew up in a different era. (I was still playing with dollies when I was 12.)
Keep your cool when your child brings up sex or anything related. The last thing you want is your child clamming up and not telling you what they’re hearing. Set boundaries early. Tell them you understand their curiosity but that they are a bit too young to fully understand the complexities of sex. Similarly, while you might maintain a
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Primary Times Christmas 2016
swearfree environment at home your children are exposed to profanity and cursing pretty much everywhere. The bus, the street, TV, YouTube and in the playground. They are going to hear certain words and repeat them. As children enter the ‘Tween’ years (8-12 approximately) they’re not just testing boundaries, they’re attempting to establish their own identity as an individual. Most children think swearing is ‘cool’ and makes them seem grown up.
are they’ll say it again, louder, and quite probably in front of a crowd.
If your child starts using bad language there are a few things you can do. First, try to be sure that you’re not a Potty Mouth yourself. If you regularly turn the air blue you can’t really expect your child to adhere to a different standard. If you generally keep it clean but have been known to react to a stubbed toe or cookery burn with an expletive, don’t panic. Apologise to your child and explain that you shouldn’t have said that. Then forget about it. If you place too much emphasis on the use or misuse of certain language your child will know a surefire way to get your attention.
Often your child will retaliate by saying “well everybody else says it.” Feel free to point out to them that the opinions of a bunch of 8 year olds aren’t going to sway you in either direction. Tell your child that adults don’t like to hear children swear and if your child gets the reputation of being a Potty Mouth they won’t be invited to parties and play dates.
Similarly, if you hear your child swearing try not to over-react. Calmly tell them it’s not appropriate language. Explain that certain words are offensive and that’s why people don’t use them. Don’t ignore the swearing either because if you do the chances
Give your child fair warning about consequences. If they say a particular word, tell them that you won’t accept such language. Advise them that if they use that word again (or any sort of ‘bad language’) that they will lose privileges as a result (time on their games console, or a play date for example). Then be sure you follow up.
While swearing and inappropriate topics may be your child attempting to act like a grown up, there is a small chance of it being indicative of an underlying condition. If your child continues to use inappropriate words despite being disciplined, then seek further advice from a medical professional. n By Anne Marie Scanlon
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Both deliver a dual action formula, which soothes and protects, and because they physically target the site of soreness, and contain no paracetamol, they are safe to use in combination with other medicines if needed. n www.throatysoothe.com RRP: £6.99 from Tesco Stores, Tesco.com and Amazon
MICHAEL FLATLEY DANCE ACADEMY Michael Flatley is proud to launch The Michael Flatley DANCE Academy across London and Surrey with classes for the whole family this autumn. Michael Flatley DANCE Academy aims to teach this unique style of Irish Dance to children, teenagers and adults in a positive and mentoring environment that builds selfconfidence while instilling an appreciation of rhythm, movement, music, fitness and culture. Girls and boys of all levels, from beginner to
advanced are invited to join whether it is just for fun or if their dream is to perform on stage. n
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
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Primary Times Christmas 2016
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
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Theatre owS Family & Children’S Sh
Camberley theatre
cranleigh arts
Tel: 01276 707600
Tel: 01483 2780000
CINDERELLA Tuesday 6th – Saturday 31st
LILY AND THE LITTLE SNOWBEAR
December. Traditional panto is
Saturday 3rd December
back for another sensational year
Lily lives with Grandpa in a pretty little
with plenty of sparkle and fun
cottage somewhere in the countryside.
in true Camberley Theatre style!
Today she is very excited. There are just
Following 2015’s Aladdin which won
two more sleeps until Christmas and
rave reviews and became our most
it’s snowing already! Lily loves SNOW!
successful pantomime ever; we are
So, she pops on her coat and sets off
delighted to welcome Cinderella
to explore. But when she discovers a
this Christmas! Yes, we’re going to
trail of soft little footprints, she’s in for
the ball and you’re all invited! The
a very big SURPRISE! Brought to life by
most magical fairy-tale of them
the acclaimed Blunderbus Theatre, this
all will be brought to life through
funny, heart-warming tale of friendship
stunning costumes, hilarious Ugly
is the perfect treat for Christmas. With
Sisters, unforgettable songs and
exquisite puppets, enchanting music
dances, a script bursting with jokes
and a magical snowy setting, this
plus a ton of magic and audience
modern-day fairy tale is especially for
interaction! Will Cinderella make it
little bears aged 3+ and their grown-
to the ball? Will the glass slipper fit?
ups. Time: 11am and 2pm. Tickets:
Will Cinders and Prince Charming
£8.80 or £30 for family of 4
live happily ever after? Find out all of this and much, much more at Camberley Theatre! Times vary 11am – 9pm. Tickets from £14
THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE Monday 19th December
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
1.30pm and 6pm. Tuesday doors, push though the fur coats
Chapterhouse Theatre Company
and enter the wondrous land of
are thrilled to announce the return
Narnia. When four young evacuees,
of this highly popular festive
Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy are
production for winter 2016. Charles
sent to a grand country mansion,
Dickens’ unforgettable festive tale,
they discover a portal to a new
A Christmas Carol is sure to be
world through a mysterious old
something to delight all the family
wardrobe. Journey with the siblings
as the magic of a very Victorian
to Narnia, an enchanting land where
Christmas comes alive alongside the
mystical creatures roam and animals
romance and passion of love in the
speak. Meet the adorable Mr
English countryside. Time: 7.30pm.
Tumnus and his whimsical friends,
Tickets: £15
as they team up with majestic lion Aslan to defeat the White Witch and save the land from her forces of evil. Tickets: £14.50 adults; £12 children; £48 for family of 4
Primary Times Christmas 2016
Tel: 01306 881717 CINDERELLA Monday 28th November. Witty,
meaning of Christmas. A magical adventure brought to the stage by The Electric Theatre’s resident youth theatre. Time: 3:30pm and 7:30pm. Tickets: £11.50 Concessions £9.50 Family Ticket available
vibrant, glamorous and romantic, Alexei Ratmansky’s Cinderella will out season, this stunning production
SANTA SAVES CHRISTMAS
comes to cinemas to bewitch us.
Wednesday 21st – Friday
Hailed as “effervescent and fun
23rd December. Who can save
as festive champagne” - Daily
the magic of Christmas? Fairy
Telegraph and “exquisite from start
Flossy’s wand has stopped working,
to finish” - Crikey - if you’ve never
Cinderella’s glass slipper is broken,
experienced the magic of ballet
and what has happened to the
before, see why Cinderella is the
magic in Aladdin’s lamp? It looks
perfect fit! Time: 7.30pm.
as though Christmas might have
Tickets: Adults - £17.50
to be cancelled...Join Fairy Flossy
sweep you off your feet. After a sell-
and Pompom the Penguin as they
DICK WHITTINGTON
meet Father Christmas himself at his home in the North Pole and
Saturday 17th – Wednesday
help Santa Save Christmas! Plus
28th December. From the
every child will receive a present
same team behind Cinderella
from Father Christmas in our special
and The Wizard of Oz, Enchanted
meet, greet, and treat, after the
Entertainment return to Dorking
most Christmassy Christmas show
Halls with another fantastic
ever. HO-HO-HO! Songs include
pantomime for all the family. Dick
festive favourites The Twelve Days
Whittington tells the rags-to-riches
Of Christmas, Jingle Bells, When
tale of our hero and his hilarious
Santa Got Stuck Up The Chimney,
cat, on their fun-packed journey to
We Wish You A Merry Christmas,
find fame and fortune in London.
and many more! Santa Saves
This year’s Dorking Halls pantomime
Christmas is a festive, interactive,
will be packed full of laugh-out-
song-filled show family show
loud comedy routines, stunning
particularly suitable for 2-7 year
dances, show-stopping songs and
olds. Time: Wednesday 1pm &
heaps of audience participation…
4pm Thursday: 11am, 1pm, 3pm, &
Oh yes it will! Times vary, check
5pm Friday: 10:30am & 12:30pm.
website. Tickets: Adults £18.00,
Tickets: £9.50 Family Ticket
Concessions £16.00 Family (2
offer: 4 for £34
Adults + 2 Children): £63.00.
20th at 6pm. Open the wardrobe
Thursday 15th December.
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dorking halls
electric theatre Tel: 01483 444789
epsom playhouse Tel: 01372 742555
Thursday 15th – Saturday 17th
SANTA AND THE CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE 2016
December. When Buddy crawls
Friday 9th - Saturday 24th
into Santa’s sack, he is mistakenly
December. A Magical Christmas
taken to the North Pole. Unaware
Experience with songs, stories, a
that he is actually human, Buddy’s
meet and greet with Santa and a
enormous size and poor toy-making
free gift! After wowing audiences in
abilities cause him to face the truth.
2013, the magical Santa Claus and
Buddy embarks on a journey to
the Christmas Adventure returns
New York City to find his father,
to delight adults and children once
discover his true identity, and
more. The adventure takes place at
help New York remember the true
Santa’s HQ in the North Pole. The
ELF THE MUSICAL, JR
COME & TRY A CLASS FOR FREE
Swimming Lessons Quality classes in small groups
Lessons for:
• Adults and Children from 2 yrs • Non Swimmers • Improvers • Advanced • SUPER Advanced Classes held at Downsend School Leatherhead and Epsom College
For more info contact Colin on: 01372-739600 or colin@cbswimming.co.uk www.colin-bull-swimming-lessons.co.uk
What’s on in your area? From Theatre shows and attractions to classes and family days out - you’ll find even more on our website!
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
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Reindeer Sat Nav is programmed, the toys are piled high on the
G-Live
sleigh and Santa is ready to go
Tel: 0844 7701 797
when suddenly... chaos strikes!
Godmother Cinderella really is the
order but nothing that TV and film
‘One and Only’ pantomime you
star Warwick Davis can’t measure
need this Christmas! Times vary, see
up to. Known to millions from his
website. Tickets from £15
roles in Star Wars, the Harry Potter
deliver the presents?! He needs
SANTA CLAUS & THE CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE
some help from all the good boys
Thursday 8th – Saturday 24th
leatherhead theatre
and girls in the audience to help
December. A magical Christmas
him find his way. Witness the truly
experience with songs, stories, a
Tel: 01372 365141
unforgettable experience when
meet and greet with Santa and a
snowflakes fall over the audience
free gift! The adventure takes place
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
and help Santa save the day in this
at Santa’s HQ in the North Pole. The
Tuesday 20th – Friday 30th
glittering costumes, sensational
festive extravaganza. As an added
Reindeer Sat Nav is programmed,
December. Join us for exciting
songs, dazzling dance routines,
Christmas treat, all of the good boys
the toys are piled high on the sleigh
adventure this year...an adventure that
bags of audience participation
and girls in the audience will meet
and Santa is ready to go when
will transport us to the French village
and magnificent slapstick comedy
Santa after the show and receive a
suddenly… chaos strikes! Rudolph
of ‘Marsh de Mello’, where a love story
guaranteed to delight audiences
special present of their own. Don’t
is missing and the Elves are up to
is waiting to unfold that will tickle your
of all ages. Will the Wicked Queen
forget to bring your camera to
no good. Will Santa ever deliver
French Fancy! This spectacular show
banish Snow White once and for
capture the magical moment when
the presents?! He needs some help
has all the elements you’d expect from
all, or will the handsome Prince
your little ones meet Santa Claus
from all the good boys and girls in
a professional pantomime and oodles
thwart her plans with some help
for the very first time. Suitable for
the audience to help him find his
of silliness to boot! CBeebies TV star
from the dwarfs? Who’s the fairest
children aged 2+. Times vary, check
way. Witness the truly unforgettable
Rebecca Keatley will make a magical
in the land and will good triumph
website. Tickets from £10.50
experience when snowflakes
appearance at the Leatherhead
over evil? There’s only one way to
fall over the audience and help
Theatre too! The children’s favourite
find out - book your tickets now for
Santa save the day in this festive
will manifest as the Marvellous
the fairest pantomime of them all!
extravaganza. Suitable for: Ages 2+.
Magical Mirror, in a spectacular
Times vary, see website.
Tickets: Adult £14.50/£16.50
special effect that will be sure to leave
Tickets from £14
Friday 30th November.
Child £13.50/£15.50 Family
the audience both spell bound and
The internationally acclaimed
offer £50/£58 (4 tickets)
doubled up with mirth as she portrays
Rudolph is missing and the Elves are up to no good. Will Santa ever
THE CHINESE STATE CIRCUS
series and Willow, as well as TV comedy series Life’s Too Short and
Chinese State Circus returns in
the Beast’s castle companion. The
an innovatively spectacular new
breath-taking tale of Beauty and the
production “DYNASTY”30 world class Chinese acrobats, aerial artistes and jugglers interact with the superhuman physical skills
harlequin theatre Tel: 01737 276 500
Beast, which is familiar to all who have seen the Disney film, has all the special
Idiot Abroad 3, he will ensure that the pantomime won’t be short of laughs this Christmas. Joining him is comedy favourite Andy Ford as the Henchman. Featuring traditional pantomime ingredients including
riverhouse barn Tel: 01932 253354
features of a traditional pantomime.
THE NUTCRACKER
A highly experienced and professional
Saturday 17th – Friday 23rd
cast will fill the roles of Dame Do’nut,
December. It’s Christmas and
and dexterity of the masters of
CINDERELLA
martial arts - the legendary Shaolin
It’s the 30th year of the Harlequin
Idle Jacque and the Viscount Biscuit
when Clara is given a wooden
Warriors. The nonstop action
Theatre and Cinema in Redhill, to
leading the way with the laughter, as
nutcracker in the shape of a
from start to awesome finale as
celebrate we’re revisiting our very
well of course with Beauty and the
handsome Prince, little does she
thrill follows thrill, what seems
first pantomime, Cinderella! Glass
Beast providing the story of true love
know that she and her brother Fritz
impossible becomes a reality,
slippers and a spell that breaks at
and good versus evil. This performance
are about to be drawn into a great
earning the CHINESE STATE CIRCUS
midnight means it’s time to charm
will also include a special visit from
adventure. The Mouse Queen has
the accolade “incomparable”
audiences with the classic rags to
Father Christmas himself! Times vary,
stolen the magic of the Christmas
This latest production returns to
riches fairy-tale of the downtrodden
see website. Tickets: £12.50
Tree star and the Land of Make
the pure and honest perfection
girl forced to serve her jealous step
Believe is in danger. The children
in acrobatics upon which their
sisters. With best buddy Buttons
and the toys must join in battle
reputation is based, creating
and the magic of a Fairy Godmother
against the rotten royal rodent to
a show with no gimmicks...no
on hand, Cinderella’s certain to
fakes.....no retakes.....quite simply
escape the misery of her dastardly
The Incomparable Chinese State
diva sisters and find true love in
Circus! “Never has such excitement
the arms of a dashing Prince...it’s
SNOW WHITE
been generated in a theatre. The
just the journey getting there may
Saturday 10th December –
of award- winning Arabian Nights,
whole audience hangs breathless”
be a little rocky and raucous before
Sunday 8th January. Hi ho, hi
Story Pocket Theatre returns with
Manchester Evening News. Time:
romancing reigns supreme! With
ho, it’s off to Woking we go for the
this colourful and magical Christmas
5pm & & 7.30pm. Tickets from
pop legend playing Chesney Hawkes
spectacular family pantomime Snow
story which brings imagination
£10.00
playing Prince Charming and Redhill
White. Join us for the enchanting
and make-believe to life for all the
favourites Abigail Welford, Neil
fairy-tale guaranteed to melt
family. Suitable for ages 3 + Time:
Wheatley and Simon Bashford back
everyone’s heart this Christmas.
2pm & 5pm. Tickets £9 (£7
as Cinderella, Buttons and the Fairy
The job of head dwarf Prof is a tall
children).
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Primary Times Christmas 2016
new victoria Tel: 0844 871 7645
save the magic of Christmas and restore the Prince to the throne. But first, Clara and Fritz must learn how to believe...After the success
STAGECOACH EPSOM so many more opportunities to take part in.
Epsom offers a range of Easter, Summer and Christmas workshops, one day west end workshops with casts of different shows. Audition technique courses as well as contemporary for the more advanced dancer. All children from age 6 plus have the opportunity to gain professional representation through our links to agency’s and casting directors. We currently have students in major movies, tv dramas, commercials and west end shows. One to one Lamda, singing and acting coaching is also available.
Stagecoach Epsom has been running successfully now for over 20 years, principal Rachel Crouch took over 2 years ago and within that time has taken the schools to such a high standard that they now have nearly 500 students training with Epsom weekly.
Stagecoach Epsom offers outstanding training in the performing arts with “Creative Courage” always at the heart of everything they do. However this isn’t just your average school. Along side their weekly 5 main schools, 8 early stages schools and a further stages, there are
However you don’t need to be a born star to join us at Epsom, we just want your enthusiasm and we will do the rest! We pride ourselves on all our students becoming stars of their nurseries, schools, colleges, universities, new job roles and using their creative courage for the rest of their lives. n www.stagecoach.co.uk/Epsom
For great days out listings, visit www.primarytimes.net
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