East Kent Easter 2019 Primary Times by Alison Watson

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for families with primary aged children

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Easter Fun! in Swale

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The Best Family Guide to What’s On Easter/Spring Edition • Issue 116 • 25 March - 12 May 2019

Dear Readers

Here in the office we are getting egg-stremely egg-cited at the thought of all that chocolate coming our way. Primary Times in East Kent We’re hoping that it will be an egg-ceptional egg7 Southbrook Mews stravaganza..... No eggs-aggeration! London SE12 8LG Tel: 01622 522116 March - May is a busy period with lots happening. Don’t Email: office@primarytimes.biz forget Mother’s Day on Sunday 31 March. Home-made Website: www.primarytimes.co.uk presents/cards always go down well... Bad news for Twitter: @PT_Kent mothers this year though as the clocks go forward on Instagram: @primarytimesse 31 March so one hour less to celebrate. Then Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Easter Weekend is 19-22 April. As you can tell Sales: Gill Pearce, Catherine Dillon, our office love chocolate so that’s one we’ll be Lola Olowofela & Andrew Langridge getting egg-cited about. Looking up dates Listings: Dingile Kasote Production: Alison Watson we came across National Teachers’ Day Office Manager: Chris Blower on 7 May. It says “a day for honouring Administrators: Claire Wood & teachers and recognising the lasting Tina Love contributions they make to our lives.” Editorial Assistant: Dunya Simões Time to make your teacher feel special. Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey Social Media: Rachel Benson As usual we have lots of competitions to enter in this issue. Entries can be sent by post to the address Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in infant and primary schools throughout Kent. Its aims are to inform families and children of to the left or they can be emailed to competitions@ current educational issues, forthcoming events, courses and attractions and to give teachers, pupils and parents the opportunity to participate in the magazine primarytimes.biz but please always mention the 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. competition you are entering and include your 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. personal details so that we can send you your prize if The opinions expressed in either the editorial or advertisements within this publication are not necessarily those held by the editor or publisher. While we take great care with the compilation of information within this magazine, neither you win one. the editor nor publisher will accept any liability for the accuracy of the editorial or advertising contained within the publication. We welcome listings being Have an egg-cellent (sorry!) holiday and we’ll be back sent to us for inclusion in our What’s On section. Free listings are dependent on available space and we cannot guarantee to print all the listings we are on 13 May. sent. Please send them to listings@primarytimes.biz. Primary Times would like to thank all the schools in Kent 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. No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole, without the express written permission of the Publishing Editor. Primary Times is currently publishing over 2.5 million copies per issue under franchise licences throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Primary Times East Kent is operated under franchise licence.

Contents

inside this issue.... Family Theatre..........................6 Spring Adventures.................... 7 What’s On............................... 12 Education......................................14 Competitions.............................17 Katie Clown............................. 19 Film Preview Guide................. 21 All Your Own Work!.................23

Peter and the Primary Times Team When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

EASTER

ADVENTURE QUEST

Sat 6 – Mon 22 April 10am – 5pm Calling all valiant adventurers. Embark on a legendary dragon trail, crack the clues and claim your chocolate reward. Dover, Kent CT16 1HU

The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

News

Dreamland Margate Free to Enter Offer

Active Life Holiday Camps Active Life are running fantastic holiday activities at their children’s camps during every school holiday. Their camps in Whitstable and Herne Bay for children aged 5-12 offer the fun your kids want during their school holidays and the convenience you need. There are a variety of activities offered to suit all types of children, whether active or creative. Active Life strive to give every child the best experience so they want to keep coming back, giving parents the reassurance that each child is kept busy and safe with care, enthusiasm, professionalism and fun at the heart of each and every day. At the day camps, children will experience a variety of activities including tennis, trampolining, arts and crafts, indoor climbing and gymnastics in the morning, teamed with multi sports fun in the afternoon - a mixture of bouncing on the bouncy castle, skating, football, basketball, badminton, short tennis, kwik cricket, bench ball, uni hockey, football and more. Each day is different and an action packed and fun experience is guaranteed to keep your children busy, active and happy. The holiday camps have been delivered in centres for over five years and have been designed and developed with flexibility and convenience in mind, so there is a choice of all day and half day camps throughout the entire Easter and summer holidays plus half terms too. For busy or working parents, the early drop off and late pick up option is an ideal way to cover extra hours. Active Life’s standard all day camp hours are 10am-3pm, but these can be extended to 8.30am-5.30pm. You don’t have to be a member to book your child in, but if you join up to the affordable annual family membership, the half day camps start from just £6.65 per day and all day camps from £13.30 per day, plus they have discount offers for booking full weeks to make it even more affordable. For more information, contact Holiday Camps Manager, Karen Monticelli on 01227 366 921 or email Karen.monticelli@activelifeltd.co.uk.

New Paddington Television Series Look out for a brand-new “Paddington” television series for preschoolers due to reach our screens next year. Actor Ben Whishaw (from Paddington 1 & 2) will reprise his role as the voice of Paddington in the new animated series, which follows the adventures of a younger Paddington. “Paddington” will air on Nickelodeon’s networks worldwide. The new series sees a younger Paddington writing to Aunt Lucy from Windsor Gardens. Each episode will open and close with Paddington’s letters as he tells Aunt Lucy what he has learned about life through the day’s new exciting adventure. The series will invite a new generation of fans into Paddington’s world full of heart, kindness, slapstick humour, fun and generosity. The film “Paddington 3” is also currently in development with STUDIOCANAL. 4

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Dreamland Margate will be free to enter for the Easter season. The free to enter offer will run from 6 April to 24 May, allowing guests to visit again and again and pay per ride only. Dreamland members have unlimited use of all rides for free throughout the season while non-members can guarantee fast track entrance and unlimited rides by buying discounted wristbands in advance online at www. dreamland.co.uk. Camp Bestival are bringing a taste of their legendary family festival to Margate and taking over the park during the Easter Holidays. As well as all your favourite Dreamland rides, roller disco and arcade fun, there will be crafts, robots and bouncing on the World’s Biggest Bouncy Castle from 6 -22 April. The main Camp Bestival x Dreamland event takes place on 21 April, Easter Sunday, when the party goes up a notch with a full day of DJs, bands, choirs, food pop-ups and a sprinkling of Camp Bestival magic. All entertainment is completely free so register for your free ticket or purchase an unlimited ride wristband online in advance and save at www.dreamland.co.uk.

Peppa Pig on the Big Screen Don’t miss your chance to see Peppa Pig on the big screen this spring when Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun comes to a cinema near you to mark the 15 year anniversary of the nation’s favourite little piggy. With all new stories, characters and lots of jumping in muddy puddles, catch Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun in cinemas nationwide from 5 April. The hour-long theatrical release gives preschool audiences a gentle introduction to the cinema, with 10 brand new and never-beforebroadcast episodes featuring a two-part festival special. Little piggies can look forward to a whole hour of snorts and giggles with songs to sing along to and dances and movements to join in with, making it the perfect cinema outing for pre-schoolers and all the family to enjoy. Each of the 10 brand-new episodes will be connected with never-before-seen interactive entertainment, featuring little ones singing and playing along with their favourite on screen characters. Get excited for the upcoming festival season with the release of Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun and join Peppa and George in their brand new ‘oink-tastic’ adventures as they dance in the mud at a children’s festival, celebrate Grandpa Pig’s birthday at a restaurant for the first time, and take a trip to the cinema to see Super Potato’s big movie feature. For more information, please visit www.peppapigfestivaloffun.co.uk.

NEW FAMILY ATTRACTIONS AWAIT AT LEEDS CASTLE KNIGHTS’ STRONGHOLD PLAYGROUND & LEEDS CASTLE ADVENTURE GOLF

New Venue for Simple Simon

Children’s favourite Simple Simon is bringing his brand new Easter Special to Broadstairs to serve the whole of Thanet.The show features Simple Simon, his pet cat Tommy, Fairy Moonbeam and a host of friends as they try to foil the evil ‘Eggbert Shelhead’ in his plot to take over the world. This pantomime style adventure show is packed with song, comedy, and lots of joining in, especially the popular ‘Stage Spots’ where children are selected at random to get up on stage to take part in games and songs to win small prizes. The show will be taking place at the Sarah Thorne Theatre on Fordoun Road.There are several car parks close by or it is a very short walk from the station, so you can even go by train to see the show. It is on for one performance only at 2.30pm on Wednesday 17 April. Simple Simon promises to be a great afternoon of interactive live theatre for all the family. For more information and to book your tickets, please visit www.sarahthornetheatre.co.uk.

News

On 13 April, children’s TV presenters Ben Cajee and Ryan Russell from CBeebies will open two fantastic new family attractions at Leeds Castle, as part of the 900th anniversary celebrations. The brand new Knights’ Stronghold Playground is a thrilling new adventure playground designed for full-on fun. Children will love letting off steam by navigating through a wooden replica of Leeds Castle with spiralling slides, fireman’s poles, giant cargo nets and zip wires. This fully accessible playground, designed for ages up to 14, will include a new shop and seating areas for parents to watch their children play in a safe and fun environment. Arrive early to be one of the first to explore the new attractions and have a selfie with Ben & Ryan. The fun doesn’t end there. This year families will be able to enjoy another new attraction as Leeds Castle will become one of the only heritage attractions in the country to open its very own adventure golf course. Adventure Golf is located near the Maze and for a small additional charge, offers a great value family activity, with games lasting around 40 minutes. For more information and prices please visit the website www.leeds-castle.com.

SARAH THORNE THEATRE

BROADSTAIRS CT10 2BN | BOX OFFICE 01843 863701

www.sarahthornetheatre.co.uk

SIMPLE SIMON’S

BRAND NEW ADVENTURE

“EASTER ‘EGG’ STRAVAGANZA!”

WEDNESDAY 17th APRIL 2.30pm

A PANTO STYLE HALF-TERM TREAT! TICKETS: £8 (Family of 4 - £30) Book online or call the box offi ce

New Leeds Castle Attractions

CELEBRATING 900 YEARS leeds-castle.com

B OO K T ICK E TS NOW ! Join us at the Official Opening with Children’s TV Stars Ben & Ryan on 13th April

Only In Cinemas April 5th www.peppapigfestivaloffun.co.uk #PeppaPigFestivalofFun

OfficialPeppaPig

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19 Peppa Pig | 90 x 135mm | Portrait | PP Fun to Learn Ad | Mech Built at

Family Theatre

The best shows around... Gulbenkian Canterbury Box Office: 01227 769 075 27 – 30 Mar

White Welcome to the world of White. Full of birdsong and birdhouses, it gleams and dazzles and shines in the night. Ages 2-4. 6 Apr

dance-theatre show gets all messed up. Ages 3+.

Marlowe Canterbury Box Office: 01227 787 787 11 Apr

The Noise Next Door: All at Sea Join this crazy crew for an adventure on the high seas as you help us chase down the fearsome Captain Bloodbeard.

The Boy and the Mermaid This new play 12 Apr Enjoy explores the fate Hansel and the show! of one little Gretel And don’t fishing town, Hansel and forget to say exposed to you saw it in Gretel are lost, the mercy of Primary searching for a sea monsters, Times! way home, only mer-creatures and to find themselves on the spectacularly bad town menu of a sweet-toothed planning. witch. Ages 3+. 20 Apr

The Selfish Giant Explore an unusual friendship, and how even the grumpiest giant’s heart can melt when spring finally comes. Ages 3+. 4 May

Comedy Club 4 Kids Enjoy cracking entertainment for kids. Enjoy the best comedians on the UK circuit doing what they do best but without the rude bits. Ages 6+. 29 May

Tidy Up When it starts out shipshape, there’s only one way for it to go… this 6

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

13 Apr

Morgan & West: Utterly Spiffing Time travelling magicians Morgan and West present a jaw-dropping, deathdefying, mind-frying, spirit-lifting, paradigmshifting, and furniture rearranging magic extravaganza. Ages 5+. 17 Apr

Land of Nod A magical, multi-sensory production filled with laughter, audience interaction, surprises and song, designed especially for children aged 3+.

Quarterhouse Folkestone

13 – 14 Apr

Box Office: 01303 760 750 Until 5 Apr

Mrs H and the Singalong Band Led by the charming and passionate Mrs H, the Sing-along Band brings their unique family music to Kent with a line-up of musicians. Their aim is to provide quality music for everyone. 6 Apr

The Star Seekers An interactive show that explores the limitless majesty of galaxies, the solar system, shooting stars and planets through songs, silliness and antigravity antics. Ages 3+. 27 Apr

Muckers A funny, magical, physical production with original songs and Spanish, this mischievous show asks what it takes to stand proud and be true to ourselves. Ages 5+.

Sarah Thorne Theatre Broadstairs Box Office: 01843 863 701 17 Apr

Simple Simon This panto–style show is packed with songs, comedy and lots of joining in – especially the popular ‘Stage Spots’ where lucky children are selected to get up on stage to take part in games and songs.

The Jungle Book Enjoy the story of Mowgli, a young boy who is raised in the jungle by a family of wolves. The jungle holds danger and surprises for Mowgli and friends in this hilarious adventure of a lifetime.

Tower Theatre Folkestone Box Office: 01303 223 925 8 – 12 May

Around the World in 80 Days Take part in this journey around the world with Phileas Fogg and Passepartout, where they encounter danger, adventure and romance from London to Cairo, India, Hong Kong and more.

The Woodville Gravesend Box Office: 08442 439 480 7 Apr

Star Seekers Alph, Betty and Gammo need your help to save their space station, collect all the orbs and delve into the great unanswered question of the universe: what do astronauts really have for tea? Ages 3+. 15 – 16 Apr

The Jungle Book A wildly entertaining adventure for the whole family. The Jungle Book tells the story of Mowgli, a young boy who is raised Theatre Royal Margate in the jungle by a family of wolves. Box Office: 01843 292 795 27 – 28 Mar

Bing Live Join Bing, Coco and Panda as they learn how to tell stories by pretending, dressing-up and singing songs. Flop and Amma are there to help but things don’t always go according to plan.

19 – 21 Apr

Bing Live Join Bing, Sula, Coco and Pando as they find out how to tell stories by pretending, dressing-up and singing songs.

This April they are excited to launch SURVIVAL: THE INITIATION - a beginner’s guide to obstacle course racing. With a trained instructor at your side, you’ll learn the best techniques to conquer obstacles. No time limit, no pressure. SURVIVAL: THE INITIATION is about having fun with your family and friends. Dedicated family waves run throughout the afternoon of Tuesday 9 April.

Fun Days Out with the Family Easter at Betteshanger

An egg-cellent adventure awaits you at Betteshanger Park this Easter. Spring is only a hop, skip and a jump away - bringing with it, all your favourite festive activities. This Easter is set to be packed with egg hunts, bunny hops and holiday adventures.

The adventure begins at Betteshanger Park, find out more at www.betteshanger-park.co.uk/easter.

Hop into Easter Fun at Hever Castle

Family fun at Hever Castle & Gardens throughout the Easter holidays between 6 and 22 April promises to put a spring in your step. Hunt for the colourful carrots around the grounds in a free, fun Easter trail or spot the bunnies in the Castle (free with Castle entrance).

A rogue rabbit has been causing havoc. Bandit the Naughty Bunny has made off with Betteshanger’s Easter Eggs - and Betteshanger need your quick thinking and problem solving skills to get them back. Follow the clues and complete the puzzles on the Easter Egg Hunt to crack Bandit’s secret password and earn a chocolate treat (19 – 22 April).

Celebrate spring by making and decorating an Easter bonnet at daily craft workshops (for a small additional charge) with a chance to show off your creations in a parade in front of the Castle every day with prizes for the best bonnets. Children can also have their faces painted (for a small additional charge).

Betteshanger are welcoming back some familiar feathery faces from UK Owl and Raptor Displays for a host of Bird of Prey Experiences. Take a walk on the wild side and learn all there is to know about these magnificent raptors (13 – 14 April).

As well as the Easter-themed activities a visit to Hever Castle in spring offers a great chance to explore the stunning gardens.Visitors can enjoy a dazzling display of spring blooms from daffodils to hyacinths, camellias and early tulips. Continued on next page

Spring Adventures

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Spring Adventures

Continued from previous page Visitors aged 7-14 can explore the Tudor Towers adventure playground with its own moat, drawbridge and three turrets. It features three slides and two poles and lots of interactive elements including musical instruments, a maze and hidden boxes to find. The under 7s can enjoy the natural play area, Acorn Dell with its 2 metre high living willow structure, a giant sandpit, a mound with tunnels to clamber in and a climbing frame. Challenge yourself in the Yew Maze and see how long it takes you to find the way out. Then round off the day with seasonal home-cooked food and mouth-watering cakes in the restaurant followed by a visit to the Gift Shop stocked with Easter goodies. For more information, visit www.hevercastle.co.uk. Photo credit: Hever Castle & Gardens

LEGO® Civilisations Show

Go along to Kent and East Sussex Railway this Easter to visit a new exhibition as well as having a great ride on the trains. Civilisations is an innovative and entertaining bricks touring show with 40 stunning LEGO models including life-size human figures from a range of civilisations throughout history. It will feature stunning LEGO models, full-sized figures from civilisations around the world, including an Aztec, a Samurai Warrior and an ancient Greek philosopher. As well as learning about these ancient civilisations, passengers can pose for ‘selfies’ with the life-sized figures in colourful costumes and intriguing poses. Featuring models created by Bright Bricks (as featured in Channel 4’s Inside Lego at Christmas) and using hundreds of thousands of LEGO bricks, Civilisations opens on 6 April at Tenterden Town Station running to 22 April. TravelCards are available online now. Also available online are a limited number of ‘make and take’ workshop activities, offering a steam locomotive for a discounted price of £8.Visit www.kesr.org.uk for more information.

exciting experiments that explore the use of sound - he needs your help to complete them, will you be loud enough? With a 20-minute show from Bunsen on his favourite experiments and over 10 hands-on experiments available for you to try at your own speed, there will be plenty of interactive science fun. The fun doesn’t stop there - once you’ve finished the experiments, families can pick up their special Easter trail that will see young explorers hunt for the sounds of the Dockyard. Don’t forget to book a free timed ticket to visit Secret Lab on the day of your visit and don’t forget to arrive early to avoid disappointment. Visitors can also book their free tours of The Victorian Ropery to learn the ropes and HM Submarine OCELOT to experience life on board. The Secret Lab and Easter Trail activities are all included in the price of your ticket which is valid for 12 months of Dockyard fun.Visit thedockyard.co.uk for details of all the activities at Easter and beyond.

Swim, Gym and Getting Healthy in Swale

Swallows Leisure Centre and Sheppey Leisure Complex have a fantastic variety of swimming, sports and fitness activities for the whole family. At Sheppey Pool, there are swimming lessons for everyone from adult and baby, to children and adults. All the courses are delivered by qualified instructors and follow the Swim England National Plan for Teaching Swimming. If you already know how to swim and like to have a splash about, there’s a range of pool activities from the giant pool inflatable to family fun sessions with pool toys and floats – just check out the pool timetable on the website to find out more. For kids’ fitness, both centres offer a wide range of gymnastics classes, run in

Wildwood Trust

Wildwood near Canterbury is a great day out for all ages where you can see amazing British wildlife from past and present. Set in 40 acres of ancient woodland, Wildwood holds a stunning collection of over 200 British animals in natural enclosures. See bears, wolves, otters, foxes, deer, badgers, owls, wild horses, lynx, beavers, wild cats, bison, squirrels, wild boar, reindeer and many more as you walk around the twisting trails through an ancient British woodland. Finish your day by letting your kids go wild in the amazing adventure play park featuring Kent’s tallest vertical drop slide, zip wire, wild fort, twisting tube slide, pine marten towers and a special area for under 5s. Join animal experts at weekends and school holidays for free close-up animal talks and feeds.Visit the Beaver Lodge Cafe or enjoy your own food in the spacious picnic area. Wildwood is not just a wildlife park but also a unique conservation project which aims to protect native British wildlife and bring back the original wild wood. Find out more about their conservation, education and rewilding initiatives at www.wildwoodtrust.org.

Historic Dockyard Chatham

This Easter is packed full of Eggcellent fun at The Historic Dockyard Chatham! Hopping into the Easter holidays from 6 April to 20 April is Doc.Yard’s Secret Lab. Warm up your vocal chords as this year’s activity is all about sound. Doc.Yard’s assistant, Bunsen, is back with 8

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

BRICKS CIVILISATIONS SHOW 6-22 APRIL AT THE KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY

Civilisations is an innovative and entertaining touring show created by Bright Bricks with 40 stunning LEGO bricks models including life-size human figures from a range of civilisations thoughout history.

KENT & EAST S U S S E X R A I L WA Y www.kesr.org.uk

Super Stars Holiday Club is a school holiday play-scheme for children aged 5-12 years old. There’s also a fantastic range of exciting activities for every school holiday to fight boredom and keep kids captivated throughout the break. For more information, please visit www. swaleleisure.com.

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Spring Adventures

partnership with British Gymnastics, for pre-school age to 11 years old. There’s also Mini Tennis in association with the Lawn Tennis Association for children aged 3-8 years old. For the adults, there are a fantastic range of group exercise classes at both sites if you enjoy the buzz of working out in a group.

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Easter Half Term Activities Mon 8th - Thu 18th April 2019 Swallows Leisure Centre Gymnastics Kickstart Rugby Jurassic George the dinosaur Arts & Crafts Circus Skills Easter Egg Hunt

Sheppey Leisure Complex Kickstart Inflatables Kickstart Football Nerf Wars

www.swaleleisure.com

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Spring Adventures

Merton Vintage Show

The Merton Vintage Show is the biggest vintage show in Kent. It’s a spectacular three day annual event held on the Mayday Bank Holiday Weekend at Faversham Showground. There will be various different trades, craft, auto jumble and boot stalls for guests to wander round as well as a licensed beer tent and various food bars. The show also has an auction on the Saturday afternoon. There will be 400+ exhibits including tractors, stationary engines, commercials, cars, motor bikes, military, steam engines, motorcycles and displays (collections) as well as arena events, which include seeing the above exhibits in their full working glory. Other displays will include old-time British wrestling and a steel drum band. The show will have Magic Al performing. He’ll be walking round entertaining during the day doing magic, stilt walking, juggling, balloon shaping and even a magic/fire show. There will be a fancy-dress competition every day with cash prizes (any age) and this year there will be a fun dog show, various bouncy inflatables and face painting. During the evening (free entry after 6pm) there will be live music, entertainment and a licensed beer tent with seating. The Merton Vintage Show will take place 4 - 6 May. For more information, please visit www.mertonvintageshow.co.uk.

Festival of Steam and Transport

This Easter Sunday and Monday (21 and 22 April) at The Historic Dockyard Chatham, the Festival of Steam and Transport is back. This family-friendly annual event is a highlight in the Dockyard calendar and this year includes a free funfair, all included in the price of admission to the event.Visitors can ride all day on classic funfair favourites including the Gallopers, Ferris Wheel, Dodgems and many more. Lining the streets will be a variety of classic cars as well as the Dockyard’s trains steaming all weekend. The Steampunks are back by popular demand with live acts, fashion stands, photo opportunities and more all inspired by a Victorian era powered by Steam. The Dockyard will come alive with street entertainers including The Giant Balloon Show and many more. Popping up all over the Dockyard too and new for 2019, music will be filling the air from artists featured on BBC Radio Kent’s “The Kent Sessions”. After all of this you’ll need to rest your legs so head to The Mess Deck and enjoy The Dockyard’s delicious Fish & Chips and homemade cakes. Advance tickets are selling fast, so be quick to get yours with amazing online advance discounts available now.

on Wednesday 10 and Thursday 18 April, 11am-3pm, for ‘Wild Families’ days, packed full of activities to get you excited about wildlife and the great outdoors. There is plenty to keep you busy including bug catching, den building, Easter egg hunting and pond dipping - where you will discover the weird and wonderful creatures that lurk in the watery depths. Prices are £8 per child with 20% discount for RSPB Wildlife Explorers and £2 for each accompanying adult. For more details please visit www.rspb.org.uk/PTDun or call 01797 320 588. Photo credit: Penny Dixie (rspb.images.com)

Dover Transport Museum

Looking for a special day out with the whole family? Your search will be over once you have arrived at the Dover Transport Museum in Whitfield. Their dedicated, friendly volunteers will make you feel welcome right from the start. Parking for cars and coaches in the grounds is free of charge and disabled parking spaces are very close to the entrance of the museum. Admission tickets are valid for a whole year from the date of your first visit, with a family ticket costing only £18, Adults - £8, Seniors/Concessions - £7 and children (age 5-16) - £4.

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Visit thedockyard.co.uk for more details of the Festival of Steam and Transport and of all the activities at the Dockyard over Easter and beyond.

This Easter, have a wild family day out and get up close with nature at RSPB Dungeness in Kent. The UK’s only desert landscape, Dungeness is home to many special animals including lizards and great crested newts, a variety of rare bumblebees and is a magnet for huge flocks of birds. It’s a joy to watch with the family! Join the team at Dungeness 10

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

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The Tram Stop Café offers an affordable selection of seasonal snacks, light meals, home-made cakes and beverages. The Dover Transport Museum is the only one of its kind in Kent and is a great family venue. For more information, please visit www.dovertransportmuseum.org.uk.

The Junk Orchestra at Leeds Castle

From 19 - 22 April, it’s your chance to make ‘rubbish’ music at Leeds Castle. Join the Junk Orchestra on the Pavilion Lawn for daily musical jamming sessions where guests can create and play with instruments that have been cleverly constructed using bits of old Merton rubbish. Families can also give Vintage Show their creative skills free reign 4th, 5th & 6th May at the Castle’s Mad Hat Making Faversham Showground workshop from colourful bunny Staple Street, ME13 9HY ears to floral spring headbands. •Trade/Auto Jumble, Craft & Boot Stalls•Daily: Fun Dog Show & Fancy Dress Comp... Magic AL •Bouncy / Inflatables• Magic/ •Face Painting•Beer Tent Fire Show •Old Time Wrestling• Stilt Walking • Steel Drum Band• Juggling • Also: Tractors, Cars • Steam Engines, Military

And Much Much More! A Fun Weekend for Everyone!

Gates open 10.00am

Adults/OAPs £6.00, Kids £2.50 Free Parking - Disabled Facilities

Contact 01227 731473 or

www.mertonvintageshow.co.uk

Dover Transport Museum HUNTS, ACTIVITIES, 8 TRACK MODEL RAILWAY, THOMAS TABLE, MINI RAILWAY AND MUCH MORE . . . Smiles begin here for the whole family with something different!

Season Starts Saturday 16th March

Spring Adventures

For the children there is an interactive eight track model railway room where parents should be prepared to sit for a while. There are also a variety of activities for children of all ages with a chance to win a monthly prize. The Transport Museum’s unique heritage collection throughout the building is described by visitors as simply amazing. Don’t miss the Easter Find the Chickens hunt from Wednesday 17 April for some seasonal fun.

Wednesdays, Weekends and Bank Holidays from 10:30am - 5:00pm - last entry 3:30pm Tickets valid for one year from first visit SPECIAL RATES FOR SCHOOL GROUPS - EXCLUSIVE ACCESS schools@dovertransportmuseum.org.uk

DON’T MISS

THE EASTER CHICKEN HUNT FROM WEDNESDAY 17TH APRIL. EVERY CHILD RECEIVES AN EGG.

Find us on Facebook/Twitter Willingdon Road, Whitfield, Kent CT16 2JX Just off the A2 www.dovertransportmuseum.org.uk Tel: 01304 822409

FREE PARKING FOR CARS AND COACHES

Discover

RSPB Dungeness

EASTER FUN

Junk

this spring

WITH THE

ORCHESTRA

Join us for an

adventure in nature! Have a go at pond dipping, butterfly spotting or learn some bushcraft skills.

19th to 22nd April This Easter create instruments using bits of old rubbish and join the Junk Orchestra jamming sessions! LOOK OUT FOR THE EASTER TRAIL WITH A CHOCOLATE REWARD

CELEBRATING 900 YEARS leeds-castle.com

rspb.org.uk/PTDun

MEDIA PARTNER

Images: family by Ben Andrew (rspb-images.com). The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a registered charity: England and Wales no. 207076, Scotland no. SC037654. All rights reserved. RSPB licence 100021787. 860-1310-18-19

RSPB Dungeness, Dungeness Road, Romney Marsh, TN29 9PN

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19 07/03/2019 17:34

What’s On

Your family diary for March, April & May Ongoing Every Sat and Sun

Falconry Display, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL 2pm. Enjoy a free flying display in the Falconry Arena in front of the Maze. The display lasts about 30 to 40 minutes and features a range of birds including Hawks,Vulture, Falcon and Owls. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.leeds-castle. com

Until 17 Apr

Spring Trail, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF 9.30am-3pm. Join Curtis the greedy Caterpillar as he visits his woodland friends on a quest to cure his hunger. Following this new self-led trail, you’ll venture into the woods and be tasked with fun activities. Open to all but suitable for ages 3-8. Charges apply.Visit www.betteshanger-park. co.uk

March Wed 27 Mar

Burnt Oak Wood, Ashford, TN26 2ED 9-10am. Enjoy a walk at Burnt Oak Wood, looking at woodland birds and spring flowers. Burnt Oak is managed by KWT on behalf of the owners and is an SSSI woodland. Meet at Orlestone Forest car park, map ref. TQ 986348. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Thurs 28 – Sat 30 Mar

Millbrook Mothers’ Day Workshop, Gravesend, DA13 9PA Make Mothers’ Day special this year by creating a beautiful primrose planter at this seasonal workshop. Charges apply. Also at Millbrook Staplehurst, TN12 9BT. For more details and to book visit www. millbrookgc.co.uk

Fri 29 Mar

Sat 30 – Sun 31 Mar

Mothers’ Day Weekend, Hever Castle, Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Show your mum just how much you love her with a wonderful family day out on Mothers’ Day Weekend. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Sat 30 Mar – Sun 28 Apr Easter Bunny Hunt, Broadditch Farm Shop, Southfleet, DA13 9PU Purchase a worksheet from the Farm Shop and set off to the woods to find the lost bunnies. Once your worksheet is completed, return to the Farm Shop to claim your prize. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www.broadditch.co.uk

Sun 31 Mar

Junior Parkrun, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF 9-10am. Betteshanger Junior Parkrun is a free 2k run suitable for ages 4-14. Registration is essential. For more information visit www.betteshangerpark.co.uk

Betteshanger Bikes, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF

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Mothers’ Day, Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden Town Station, TN30 6HE

Treat Mum to a special day out. Enjoy a perfect day for the whole family, where everyone can enjoy the service and style from yesteryear - a time when attentive staff made our railways the envy of the world. Booking is essential.Visit www.kesr. org.uk

Mothers’ Day Special Lunch Event, The Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY 12noon-3pm. Show mum just how much she means by treating her to a delicious two course Sunday carvery at the historic Hop Farm. Take a stroll around the grounds, enjoy special family time and meet adorable animals in the farm. Charges apply, booking is essential.Visit www. thehopfarm.co.uk

10am-11.30am. Join the weekly cycle club for young mountain bikers. Learn awesome skills and take part in exciting games from British Cycling qualified coaches. Suitable for ages 8-14. Charges apply. For more information visit www.betteshangerpark.co.uk

Mothering Sunday, Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, TN28 8PL

Dash Café - Eutopia, Gulbenkian, University of Kent, CT2 7NB

Birdwatching for Beginners, RSPB Dungeness, Lydd, TN29 9PN

12noon. A packed afternoon of family-friendly activities including free live music, delicious food, storytelling, comedy and short animated films. Go in search of the heart of Europe. For more details visit www. thegulbenkian.co.uk

Wear A Hat Day 2019, Nationwide Brain Tumour Research would like you to join the thousands of other children, parents and teachers across the country joining in to create entertaining and colourful hatthemed fundraising events. To register and get your free fundraising pack visit www.wearahatday.org

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I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

Activities for this special day include Mums Drive a Train and Mothers’ Day Afternoon Tea in Hythe’s Vintage Tea Room. For more information and to book visit www.rhdr.org.uk

(Also 14 Apr) 11am-1pm. Love birds but want to know more about them? Go along on a springtime walk around the reserve with a friendly guide with expert knowledge on all things feathery. Booking is essential. Charges apply. For more details visit www.rspb.org/PTDun

Mothering Sunday Lunch, Canterbury Cathedral, CT1 2EH Every Mum deserves a chance to relax! Enjoy a delicious three-course lunch, followed by a stroll around the Cathedral grounds. Charges apply. For more details visit www. canterbury-cathedral.org

April Fri 5 Apr

A Talk With: The Biking Birder Gary Prescott, RSPB Dungeness, Lydd, TN29 9PN 6-8pm. Gary Prescott is the only man to have been to every RSPB nature reserve in the UK. With photographs and videos taken on his travels, Gary will be talking about his four Biking Birder adventures. Pre-booking is essential. Charges apply. For more details visit www.rspb.org/PTDun

Fri 5 – Thurs 11 Apr

Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun (U), Various Cinemas Nationwide Don’t miss your chance to see Peppa Pig on the big screen this spring when Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun comes to a cinema near you to mark the 15 year anniversary of the nation’s favourite little piggy. For more details visit www. peppapigfestivaloffun.co.uk

Sat 6 Apr

Survival: The Initiation, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF Enjoy a beginner-friendly and fun introduction to obstacle course racing with the sole aim of helping you overcome OCR apprehension. The afternoon sessions are specially designed for families with children aged 8+. Charges apply. For more details visit www.betteshanger-park. co.uk/easter

Block 67 Workshop: Faces of Folkestone, Quarterhouse, CT20 1BN 11am-3pm. Use collage and screen printing to contribute your own face designs onto a large-scale artwork that will be exhibited publicly. Free and open to all ages. Just drop in, no booking required. For more details visit www.quarterhouse.co.uk

Sat 6 - Sun 7 Apr

Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG Go along to see three races on the gladiatorial Indy circuit. This is your first chance to see the return of the legendary BMW 3 Series, with reigning champion Colin Turkington behind the wheel. Under 13s are admitted free. Charges apply. For more details visit www.brandshatch. co.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 16... Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse

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25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Anna Outdoors

Education News

The UK’s No 1

CGP is the UK’s number one educational publisher. If you’ve been in school in the last twenty years, or know anybody that has, chances are you’ll have come across CGP — over 90% of UK schools use their books. CGP’s Primary and 11+ ranges contain hundreds of resources covering all subjects for every year of KS1 and KS2, as well as their bestselling SATS prep books — all at the lowest prices. Don’t miss CGP’s best ever 11+ range, which is hot off the press. With brand new Study Guides, Workbooks and Kent specific Practice Papers — CGP has everything your pupils need for 11+ success. To buy CGP’s books just visit their website at www.cgpbooks.co.uk - or visit Amazon, Waterstones, WHSmith and other good bookshops. P G C

Anna Outdoors offers a range of creative services which support learning outside of the classroom. Anna brings outdoor learning to life with active and imaginative workshops which engage and inspire young people and provide opportunities for exploration and discovery. She designed and delivers the educational programmes at Canterbury City Council’s Green Flag Award winning sites - Reculver Country Park and the Westgate Parks, Canterbury. Working in partnership with HatHats Coffee Community Spaces Limited, Anna Outdoors offers bespoke outdoor learning packages at Reculver which include the use of the amazing coastal classroom. Primary school programmes include a seashore safari, marine-life Olympics and Roman Reculver geo-caching trail. Like Reculver, the Westgate Parks is also rich in both heritage and habitat. Children can become River Rangers and enjoy a Great Stour river dipping session set in the beautiful Westgate Gardens. Activities also include a Great Stour river study, minibeast safari in a wildflower rich meadow, pond dipping on Bingley Island Local Nature Reserve and sensory activities. Bespoke programmes can also be designed on request. Anna Outdoors also offers outreach outdoor learning activity workshops for schools looking to bring the great outdoors into their setting. Anna is a trained Level 3 Forest School Practitioner and can provide advice and deliver Forest School activities. For more information, please visit www.annaoutdoors.co.uk.

Schools Gear Up for the Big Pedal

This week, starting 25 March, nearly 1,400 schools are taking part in Sustrans Big Pedal 2019 – the UK’s largest cycling, walking and scooting challenge for schools. This year’s competition is backed by Angellica Bell, British television, radio presenter and cycling advocate. Organised by the walking and cycling charity Sustrans, the competition will run from Monday 25 March to Friday 5 April and will encourage young people from across the UK to travel by bike, foot or scooter for their journey to and from school. During the 10 days, participating primary and secondary schools will compete with one another to make the most journeys by bike, foot or scooter. To coincide with this year’s event, dozens of schools across the UK will, for the first time, be closing the road outside the school gates to motor vehicles. This is to limit the volume of traffic and help reduce air pollution, while creating an environment in which cycling and walking is safe, convenient and enjoyable. The theme of this year’s Big Pedal is ‘Travelling around the body’, with pupils tracking their progress on a wall chart, learning about the human body and how active travel benefits their health as they go. This year’s competition aims to build on the success of 2018 which saw over 1,300 schools register to take part with teachers, parents, siblings and pupils making more than a million journeys to school by bike or scooter. For more information about the event, please visit www.bigpedal.org.uk Photo credit: ©Sustrans/Paul Tanner

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Wellesley House is an outstanding, family-orientated preparatory school in Broadstairs, Kent, where pupils aged 4 to 13 have a chance to shine – in the classroom, in the creative arts or on the sports field – supported by exceptional pastoral care. From September, its new pre-prep school will offer children from Reception upwards access to its wonderful education. At the heart of the pre-prep will be the values of kindness, respect, courage, teamwork and enjoyment, which help to foster selfconfidence, whilst encouraging a love of learning and an understanding of others. Pre-prep pupils will have access to the school’s extensive grounds and outdoor learning will be integral to the curriculum. Wellesley also makes the most of its proximity to the beach. Its beach school includes activities such as running free along the sand, bird watching, tracking animals’ footprints, exploring crabs’ habitat and watching local wind turbines work. On Friday afternoons during the summer term, stay and play sessions are being run for pre-prep aged children between 2-3.45pm. For more information on these sessions or to book an appointment to visit the school, please contact admissions@wellesleyhouse.net or call 01843 862 991.

The Cadwaladr Quests

A new children’s vocabulary novel has taken Amazon by storm. The Cadwaladr Quests: Tangled Time is a unique new adventure story that makes learning vocabulary for 11+, SATs and independent school

entrance exams fun. Every page incorporates numerous childfriendly definitions in context along with synonyms and antonyms - a book with a built-in dictionary! Written by a Berkshire mother for her reluctant-reader son, the book has enjoyed weeks of Amazon #1 best-seller status in its category. Join Claire, Jack and Ben on their quest to protect a powerfully dangerous artefact and take the pain out of learning new vocabulary. As one Amazon review states, fabulous and fictitious in one! This is the must-have for anyone doing 11+, SATs or independent school entrance exams. It is available in paperback and Kindle (with interactive word definitions) from www.www.amazon.co.uk. For more information, visit www.slager.co.uk.

Take the Pain out of Learning Vocabulary! THE CADWALADR QUESTS: TANGLED TIME A unique, fun novel with child-friendly definitions in context on every page For 11+ SATs and Independent Entrance Exams Synonyms and antonyms included Buy from amazon.co.uk in paperback or Kindle

www.slager.co.uk

‘A great place to grow’ for boys and girls aged 2 to 11 years

Visit, Explore & Discover

P R E - P R E P S TAY A N D P L AY Play sessions on a Friday afternoon 2pm - 3.45pm For further information please contact us. E: admissions@wellesleyhouse.net T: 01843 862991 W: www.wellesleyhouse.org Wellesley House, Broadstairs, Kent CT10 2DG

Spring Grove School, Harville Road, Wye TN25 5EZ Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

From broad stairs to the stars 25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Education News

Wellesley House

What’s On

More What’s On

Your family diary for March, April & May

April

Easter Adventure Quest, Dover Castle, CT16 1HU

Sat 6 - Sat 20 Apr

Easter Eggtravaganza, The Historic Dockyard Chatham, ME4 4TE This Easter, expect a fun-packed holiday of activities. From Doc.Yard’s Secret Lab to giant rope eggs hidden across the site for an Easter egg hunt. Charges apply. For more details visit thedockyard.co.uk

Sat 6 – Sun 21 Apr Easter Trail, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH

Follow the Easter bunny trail to find the secret phrase and claim your prize. For more details visit museum. maidstone.gov.uk

Sat 6 – Mon 22 Apr

Hop into Easter Fun, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Enjoy lots of family fun this Easter with various activities to put a spring in your step. Hunt for the colourful carrots around the grounds in a free, fun Easter trail or spot the bunnies. Celebrate spring by making and decorating an Easter bonnet at daily craft workshops with a chance to showyou’re your creations in a parade. Children can also have their faces painted or explore the Tudor Towers adventure playground with its own moat, drawbridge and three turrets. Admission charges apply. For more details and times visit www. hevercastle.co.uk

Easter Fun, The Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY 10am-5pm. Enjoy the fabulous children’s attractions and rides including Bumper Carz, The Magic Castle, Giant Jumping Pillows, Hopper’s Animal Farm and much more. Plus egg-citing Easter games for the kids. For more details and to book visit www.thehopfarm.co.uk

LEGO® Bricks: Civilisations, Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden TN30 6HE An innovative and entertaining LEGO® touring show with 40 stunning LEGO® models including life-size human figures from a range of civilisations throughout history. This exhibition is FREE to K&ESR Travel Card ticket holders only. For more details visit www.kesr.org.uk

Easter Adventure Quest, Walmer Castle and Gardens, Deal, CT14 7LJ 10am-5pm. Join in on the hunt for legendary dragon eggs. Crack the clues as you and your family follow the trail around the castle’s beautiful gardens and receive a chocolate treat. Charges apply. For more details visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

10am-5pm. Join in on the hunt for legendary dragon eggs. Crack the clues as you and your family follow the trail around the castle’s beautiful gardens and receive a chocolate treat. Charges apply. For more details visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

Camp Bestival, Dreamland, Margate, CT9 1XJ 2-4pm. Camp Bestival are bringing a taste of their legendary family festival to Margate and taking over the park during the Easter Holidays. As well as all your favourite Dreamland rides, roller disco and arcade fun, there will be crafts, robots and bouncing on the World’s Biggest Bouncy Castle from 6-22 April. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. dreamland.co.uk

Sat 6 – Mon 23 Apr

Dino Live, Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells TN1 2SS Families will be provided with a unique and educational journey spanning more than 250 million years. Enjoy the thrill of getting close and personal with the king of the tyrant lizards, the famous and fearsome Tyrannosaurus Rex, plus other life-size dinosaurs.Visit www. royalvictoriaplace.com

Sat 6 – Sat 27 Apr

Bittern Breakfast, RSPB Dungeness, Lydd, TN29 9PN (Saturdays only) 7-10am. Go on a sunrise walk and listen to the distinctive call of the booming bitterns echoing from the reedbeds. Enjoy a tasty cooked breakfast afterwards. Booking is essential. For more details visit www.rspb.org/ PTDun

Sun 7 Apr

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

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Mon 8 – Fri 12 Apr

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

Spring Week, Godington House and Gardens, Ashford, TN23 3BP

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Betteshanger Bikes, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF 10-11.30am. Join the weekly cycle club for young mountain bikers. Learn awesome skills and take part in exciting games from British Cycling qualified coaches. Suitable for ages 8-14. Charges apply. For more information visit www.betteshangerpark.co.uk

Target Archery Taster, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF (Also 12, 13 Apr) The GB Archery qualified instructors will coach you through the best techniques to shoot with accuracy on an outdoor range. Precision, control and a steady hand are all you need to achieve the best results. Ages 8+. Charges apply. To book visit www.betteshanger-park. co.uk/easter

1-4pm. A week full of activities for families to enjoy. With garden trail, traditional garden games and children’s crafts. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www. godintonhouse.co.uk

Mon 8 – Thurs 18 Apr Holiday Heroes Easter Half Term Activities, Sheppey Leisure Complex, ME12 1HH

Enjoy fun activities such as kick start inflatables; kick start football and nerf wars. Charges apply. For more details visit www.swaleleisure.com or call 01795 668 652.

Holiday Heroes Easter Half Term Activities, Swallows Leisure Centre, ME10 4NT Enjoy fun activities such as gymnastics, kick start rugby, arts and crafts, circus skills, an Easter egg hunt and Jurassic George and the Dinosaur. Charges apply. For details visit www.swaleleisure.com.

Tues 9 Apr

Paddington, The Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY Children’s film favourite Paddington will be visiting the Hop Farm for meet and greets at intervals throughout the day. Charges apply. For more details visit www. thehopfarm.co.uk

Mon 8 Apr

Tues 9 – Thurs 11 Apr

10.30am-12.30pm, 1.30-3.30pm. Be a magical explorer of the nature reserve. Go on a bug hunt, learn where mythical creatures come from on a trail, and then create natural dream catchers, woodland wands and plaster of animal tracks. Charges apply.Visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

Drop in to try your hand at creating some potato-printed Kent Coalfieldinspired artwork with the Kent Mining Museum team. Ages 4+. Charges apply. For more details and to pre-book visit www.betteshangerpark.co.uk/easter

Making Nature Magic: Spring Fun, Romney Marsh Visitor Centre, TN28 8AY

Punchy Potato Prints, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF

Wed 10 Apr

Cycle Hire, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF

Family Wildlife Day, Conningbrook Lakes Country Park, Ashford, TN24 9QX

(Also 15 Apr) If the kids are climbing the walls, take them over to Betteshanger and enjoy discounted cycle hire. Get out and get muddy on the mountain bike trails or take a leisurely cycle on the tarmac track. Charges apply. For more details visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk/easter

10.30am-1pm. Get stuck in with wildlife activities suitable for the whole family. Activities include pond dipping, minibeast hunting and exploring. Meet at Julie Rose Athletics Stadium Car Park, Willsborough Road. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Mon 8 – Tues 9 Apr

Wild Families in Easter, RSPB Dungeness, Lydd, TN29 9PN

Really Wild Wooders Forest School Holiday Club, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF (Also 15-16 Apr) Days will be filled with learning how to use a whole range of different tools, lighting fires, campfire cooking, creating rustic crafts, building dens, climbing trees and making new friends. Ages 4-11. Charges apply. To book visit www. betteshanger-park.co.uk/easter

(Also 18 Apr) 11am-3pm. Get up close and personal with nature. From pond dipping and Easter egg hunting to den building and bug hunting. Booking is essential. Charges apply. For more details visit www.rspb.org/ PTDun

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 18... Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

Win a box of books for your school

Win a Peppa Pig Prize Bundle

Competitions

Competitions Join the party this spring when Peppa Pig heads into cinemas nationwide for an all-new big screen adventure to mark the 15 year anniversary of the nation’s favourite little piggy. Set for release this April, Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun is perfectly timed to entertain little ones ahead of the Easter holidays. For more information about the release, please visit www. peppapigfestivaloffun.co.uk.

Primary Times are offering schools the chance to win a selection of great books for their library. We have a whole box full of titles from super stories to fun educational books. We have several boxes of books to give away and the titles in each may differ. To enter the competition send your name, address, phone number and the name of your school using the details below.

To celebrate the release of Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun, Primary Times has an amazing bundle of Peppa Pig goodies to give away to one lucky reader. The bundle includes a Musical Party Peppa Plush, Peppa’s Family Home, Muddy Puddle Game, Sing and Learn Microphone, an Inflatable Muddy Puddle and Peppa’s Muddy Festival book. To be in with a chance of winning, simply tell us how many years Peppa Pig has been running for. For details of how to enter, see the bottom of this page.

Win £1000 of Canvas Holidays Vouchers go and try something new and have fun together. The fun-packed family activity programme, which is exclusive to Canvas Holidays, boasts more than 60 activities for all ages. These lively sessions are led by outdoor activity specialistsIn2action, who have been delivering the activity programmes for Canvas for over ten years. www.canvasholidays.co.uk Primary Times has £1000 of Canvas Holidays vouchers to give away to one lucky reader. To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize, all you need to do is complete the word search. Then fill out the form with your details and send them both to Canvas Holidays Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London SE12 8LG. Or scan a copy of your completed form and email it to competitions@primarytimes.biz with ‘Canvas Holidays Competition’ as the subject by Friday 26 April.

Canvas Holidays have been arranging fantastic family holidays for British holidaymakers for over 55 years. They are part of the Vacanceselect Group which is number one in the outdoor camping market in Europe with over 900 sites. Canvas is a UK based company and offers a variety of accommodation including luxury mobile homes with hot tubs and roof decks and glamping in safari tents. They have sites in wonderful locations in France, Italy and Spain, with amazing waterparks, great beaches and fantastic things to see and do. Part of the fun of a Canvas Holiday is spending time together with your nearest and dearest and so their Family Extra Club isn’t just for kids, it’s for all the family to enjoy. Everyone is welcome to

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Find the following words Canvas, Summer, Family, Holidays, Fun, Time, Swimming, Camping, Tent, Sun, Name Age.......................................................................... Address................................................................... ................................................................................ ................................................................................ School......................................................................

To enter any of the competitions send your answer along with your name, age, school, address and phone number to Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG. Don’t forget to include the name of the competition. Alternatively email your answer and details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with the competition name as the subject by Friday 26 April 2019. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On

Your family diary for March, April & May

April

Betteshanger Bikes, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF

Fri 12 Apr

Borrow a Birdwatcher, RSPB Dungeness, Lydd, TN29 9PN (Also 26 Apr, 17 May) 10.30am1.30pm. With one-on-one guidance from an RSPB volunteer and expert birdwatcher, you’ll be taught some of the basics of bird identification and taken to the best spots around the reserve to practice. Booking is essential. Charges apply.Visit www. rspb.org/PTDun

Sat 13 Apr

Adventure Golf and New Playground Official Opening, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL 12noon.Visitors should arrive early to be first to explore the new family attractions. As part of the 900th anniversary celebrations, children’s TV presenters Ben Cajee and Ryan Russell from CBeebies will open the attractions. Admission charges apply. For details visit www.leeds-castle. com

Sharky Saturday, The Seaside Museum Herne Bay, CT6 5EJ Learn about Herne Bay’s prehistoric sharks, other fossil sharks and their modern equivalents, see amazing shark art and enjoy fun activities and quizzes. Charges apply. For more details visit www. theseasidemuseumhernebay.org

Garage Sale, The Lord Whisky Tea Rooms, Canterbury, CT4 6AN 10am-5pm. Go along to raise some vital funds for the Sanctuary. For more details visit www.lordwhisky. co.uk

Sat 13 – Sun 14 Apr

Bird of Prey Experiences, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF Get an insight into the beautiful world of falconry with our special hands-on workshops facilitated by the experienced UK Owl and Raptor Display team. Ages 7+. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk/easter

Tues 16 Apr

Fossil Hunting, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF (Also 17 Apr) 10am, 11.15am, 12.30pm, 1.45pm. The Betteshanger site is perfect for fossil hunting.You’ll find plenty of fossils either lying on top of the spoil heap or by digging down into the spoil. Ages 6+. Charges apply. For more details and to prebook visit www.betteshanger-park. co.uk/easter

Block 67 Workshop: Inspired by Nature, Quarterhouse, Folkestone, CT20 1BN 11am-3pm. Inspired by nature we will create large artworks which will become part of a light installation. Go along and see the final piece in the windows of Block 67 until 26 Apr. Free and open to all ages. Just drop in, no booking required. For more details visit www.quarterhouse.co.uk

Tues 16 – Thurs 18 Apr Fossil Eggs, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF

Discover more about the fossils that can still be found at Betteshanger and create your own fossil egg to take home with the Kent Mining Museum team. Ages 4+. Charges apply. For more details and to pre-book visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk/easter

Wed 17 Apr

Family Day, Dover Museum, CT16 1PH 10.30am-3pm. Expect a great range of Easter-themed activities aimed to keep children busy including a “Find the Chickens” hunt. Free event for all ages. For more details visit www. dovermuseum.co.uk

Sun 14 Apr

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

“

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

Family Forest Skills Day, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF

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Wildlife Holiday Fun, Bough Beech, Sevenoaks, TN14 6LD

2-4pm. Get dipping in the beautiful wildlife pond, then join in fun and craft activities, guided by friendly staff and volunteers. Meet at Bough Beech Oast Centre. Charges apply. For more details visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Walled Garden Wednesday: The Asparagus Plot, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN 2-3pm. Have you ever wondered if asparagus is difficult to grow, and if it suffers from pests and diseases? Go along find out how the team grows theirs. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/scotney-castle

Spring Migration Walk, RSPB Dungeness, Lydd, TN29 9PN (Also 15 May) 10.30am-12.30pm. Go and see which birds visit Dungeness in the spring time to feed and breed there.Your walk will be led by a friendly guide with expert knowledge on the wildlife around the reserve. Booking is essential. Charges apply. Visit www.rspb.org/PTDun

Easter Bunny Party hosted by Mascot Moments, Millbrook Gravesend, DA13 9PA 10.30am, 12.30pm, 3pm.You’re invited to a fun-filled Easter Bunny party hosted by party specialists, Mascot Moments! Enjoy party games, dancing, balloon modelling, sweet treats and special Easter Bunny guest appearances. Charges apply. For more details visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Wed 17 – Mon 22 Apr Easter Wonderland, Broadditch Farm Shop, Southfleet, DA13 9PU

In the Easter Wonderland a family of mischievous rabbits have moved into the old abandoned farm house. Meet Mrs Rabbit who will read you an enchanting Easter tale and then give you a present. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.broadditch.co.uk

Fri 19 Apr

Easter Egg Hunt 2019, Demelza House, Sittingbourne, ME9 8DZ Go along for a great family day out. Help Cotton Tail find his friends in the glorious Demelza gardens and each child will receive a prize for completing the Easter Egg Hunt. For times and more details visit www. demelza.org.uk

Bring your family together and join Really Wild Wooders for a special Forest Skills Day this Good Friday. Make a selection of Easter crafts to take home plus light a campfire, toast marshmallows, spend time building woodland dens and hunt for bugs. To pre-book visit www.betteshangerpark.co.uk/easter

Fri 19 – Mon 22 Apr Easter Fun with the Junk Orchestra, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

Join the Junk Orchestra for daily musical jamming sessions. Create and play with instruments that have been cleverly constructed using old rubbish. Children can take part in a hat making workshop or enjoy an egg-cellent Easter trail through the grounds. To book visit www.leedscastle.com

Sheep Easter Trail, Romney Marsh Visitor Centre, TN28 8AY 10am-4pm. Follow the woollen sheep through the Nature Park and gardens. Get all the answers and receive a chocolate prize. Charges apply. For more details visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Easter Weekend, Sittingbourne’s Steam Railway, ME10 2XD 11am-4pm. Running on all four days, join in celebrating the reopening of the Railway for the 2019 Season. A quick return trip takes about an hour, but you can stay longer and visit the award winning gardens, museum and more. Charges apply. For more details visit www.sklr.net

Easter Egg Hunt, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF Follow the self-led Easter Egg Hunt around the Park, complete the activities (ages 5 and over) or collect the stamps (under 5s) and unravel the secret password. If you crack the code, you’ll earn a chocolate reward. For more details and to book visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk/easter

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts, Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, TN30 7NG 11am-4pm. Spring into spring, enjoy the outdoors and explore the nature trail at Smallhythe Place. Will you complete the quest and claim your chocolatey prize? Charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/smallhythe-place

Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt: Beehive Trail 2019, Quebec House, Westerham, TN16 1TD 11am-4pm. Explore the garden to help Mrs Wolfe find all the beehives hiding the eggs, honey and spices she needs to make her traditional Easter treats. Charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ quebechouse

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 20... Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

Rain Word Search T L D L H A W F T N S I I A M R G L C W

T Q I C P F L O O D

N U L K R B U T D W

E G U L E D E S U P

R R L T B E Y N O I

R G E U L B V I L C

O W R S S N M A C E

T S E L Z Z I R D R

What is a king’s favourite weather? Hail!

T M O N What’s a S tornado’s O favourite game? O Twister! N L P

Can you find all these words in the word search? Deluge, Drizzle, Flood, Hail, Monsoon, Rainfall, Sleet. Cloudburst, Torrent, Precip, Rainstorm, Mist, Cloud, Wet

How does the rain tie its shoes? With a rainbow!

Answers

lown’s April Showers

Spot the Difference: In Picture B the girl is smiling, she has short hair, she is wearing trousers, the flower is now orange, there is a second pink flower, the tree has changed. Looking-Glass: 1-6, 2-14, 3-5,4-13, 7-9, 8-12, 10-16, 11-15

Katie

Spot 6 Differences

What does a cloud wear under his raincoat? Thunderwear!

Looking-Glass Can you draw a picture or write a poem about anything to do with umbrellas or wellington boots? Make it as wild as you can! Send it to us to have a chance of winning a Primary Times Tee Shirt AND seeing your prize winning entry published in the next Primary Times! Categories: ages 4-7 and 8-11 Name: Age: Address:

Postcode: School:

Send your entry together with this completed form to:

Annie's Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London, SE12 8LG or scan them both and email them to:

competitions@primarytimes.biz

Closing date 26 April 2019. Good Luck!

Can you spot the pairs of mirrored pictures?

A n s w e r s

What’s On

More What’s On

Your family diary for March, April & May

April

Sun 21 - Mon 22 Apr

Easter £2 Days, East Kent Railway Trust, Shepherdswell, CT15 7PD Travel for just £2 over the Easter weekend. The four mile round trip takes you on a scenic journey between the pretty villages of Shepherdswell and Eythorne. For times and more details visit www. eastkentrailway.co.uk

Fri 19 – Mon 22 Apr

Easter Fun and Frolics, Rare Breeds Centre, Ashford, TN26 3RJ During the Easter weekend there will be lots of baby animals to see, a chocolate bunny hunt, face painting, activities with the Easter bunny, a three little piggy’s show and more. Charges apply. For more details and times www.rarebreeds.org.uk

Sat 20 Apr

Easter Sheep Fun, Romney Marsh Visitor Centre and Nature Reserve, TN28 8AY 11am-12.30pm, 1.30-3pm. Get involved in a traditional Easter Egg Hunt, and then create woollen sheep and painted eggs to take home with you. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Festival of Steam and Transport 2019, The Historic Dockyard Chatham, ME4 4TE The family favourite Easter event is back. From steam trains, to a free funfair, to food stalls to steam punks and live music, it’s an event not to be missed. Charges apply. For more details visit thedockyard.co.uk

British Truck Racing, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG Enjoy two days of action, culminating with a bumper to bumper race day on Easter Monday. There will be support races too, and plenty of off-track activities making this a great spring day out for the family. Under 13s are admitted free. Charges apply. For more details visit www. brandshatch.co.uk

Easter QuExtravaganza, Quex Park and Powell-Cotton Museum, Birchington, CT7 0BH 10am-5pm. Experience fun for the whole family with an outdoor Easter trail around Quex gardens, face painting, giant board games in the museum and a chance meet the Easter Bunny. For more details and to book visit www.quexpark.co.uk

Sun 21 Apr

Wed 24 Apr

9-10am. Betteshanger Junior Parkrun is a free 2k run suitable for ages 4-14. Registration is essential. For more information visit www.betteshangerpark.co.uk

10.30am-12.30pm. Join the rangers and discover more about the history, flora and fauna on the estate, together with how they care for this area. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/ightham-mote

Junior Parkrun, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF

Easter Sunday Lunch, Canterbury Cathedral, CT1 2EH Take the family along and enjoy a special 3-course lunch with coffee in the delightful restaurant at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge. After lunch, there will be an Easter Egg hunt for the children in the Campanile garden. For more details visit www.canterbury-cathedral.org

Easter Egg Hunt, Belmont House and Gardens, Faversham, ME13 0HH 11am–3pm. Explore the gardens and search for the Easter eggs to get your very own chocolate treat. Afterwards, children can head back to the Orangery to get creative with the Easter crafting session. Charges apply. For more details visit www. belmont-house.org

Ranger Roams, Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT

Wed 24 – Tues 30 Apr Tulip Celebrations, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Visitors will be able to enjoy free daily tours with the gardeners and marvel at the 21,000 tulips, in a myriad of colours and different varieties planted in the Castle grounds and Italian gardens. Admission charges apply. To find out more visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Easter Open Day, The Warren Bredgar Sittingbourne, ME9 8AT Enjoy the first open day of 2019 with a Easter egg hunt for the kids. For more details visit www.bwlr.co.uk

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

“

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

Fri 26 Apr

Cycling qualified coaches. Suitable for ages 8-14. Charges apply. For more information visit www.betteshangerpark.co.uk

”

Bluebell and Wildflower Walk, Sissinghurst Castle, Nr Cranbrook, TN17 2AB

(Also 28 Apr) 2–4pm. Take part in a guided walk with a Ranger during the spring season, a great chance to see the array of wild flowers, followed by an inclusive cream tea in the restaurant. Charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ sissinghurst-castle

Fri 26 Apr – Fri 24 May Nature Tots, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Jeffery Harrison Visitor Centre, TN13 3DH

(Fridays only) 9.45-11.45am. A wonderful opportunity for little ones to explore, discover and learn from nature and gain a sense of achievement from a variety of nature, art and craft-based activities. Ages 2-5. Charges apply. Also at Denstead Wood. For more details visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Sat 27 Apr

Guided Walks: Spring and Bluebells, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP 2-4pm. Discover the joys of spring with beautiful views over the Weald on this family walk. Dogs on leads are welcome. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

Sat 27 – Sun 28 Apr

Autism Arts Festival 2019, Gulbenkian, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NB 10am. A two-day festival of arts by and for people on the autistic spectrum. It aims to be both a celebration of autistic creativity and an attempt to develop a relaxed performance which is accessible to neurodivergent people too. Charges apply. For more details visit www. thegulbenkian.co.uk

Sun 28 Apr

Betteshanger Bikes, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF 10am-11.30am. Join the weekly cycle club for young mountain bikers. Learn awesome skills and take part in exciting games from British

May Wed 1 May

Stories and Rhymes, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH 10.30-11.30am. Listen to a story, join in with the actions, rhymes and songs, and make a themed paper craft to take home. Refreshments included. Suitable for under 5s. Charges apply. For more details visit museum. maidstone.gov.uk

Ranger Roams, Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT 10.30am-12.30pm. Join the rangers and discover more about the history, flora and fauna on the estate, together with how they care for this area. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/ightham-mote

Walled Garden Wednesday: Supporting and Staking Plants, Scotney Castle, TN3 8JN 2-3pm. Go along and learn about plant supports, using different materials and techniques for different vegetables, plants and trees. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ scotney-castle

Sat 4 May

Meet Mr. Tickle and Little Miss Sunshine, Dover Castle, CT16 1HU 11am-4pm. Go along to Dover Castle where Mr. Tickle and Little Miss Sunshine will entertain visitors to the castle during Story Time sessions, led by a narrator, at intervals. Charges apply. For more details visit www. english-heritage.org.uk

Sunset Session: May the Fourth Be With You, Dreamland, Margate, CT9 1XJ 6-11pm. Dreamers, ravers, and space invaders rejoice – Dreamland’s Sunset Sessions return to Margate on Star Wars Day. Charges apply. This is an all age event, but under 16 year olds must be accompanied by an adult aged 18+. For more details and to book visit www.dreamland.co.uk

Boot & Spring Fayre, Park House Animal Sanctuary, Canterbury, CT4 6AN Boot Fayre 8am. Go along to raise some vital funds needed. There will be entertainment from 11am to include The East Kent Piping Society and Tweethearts, a heart-warming interactive adventure with live music. For more details visit www. lordwhisky.co.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 22... Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

Film Preview Guide Dumbo From Disney and visionary director Tim Burton comes the all-new live-action adventure, Dumbo.The movie expands on the beloved classic story where differences are celebrated, family is cherished and dreams take ﬂight. Circus owner Max Medici (Danny DeVito) enlists former star Holt Farrier (Colin Farrell) and his children Milly (Nico Parker) and Joe (Finley Hobbins) to care for a newborn elephant whose oversized ears make him a laughingstock in an already struggling circus. But when they discover that Dumbo can ﬂy, the circus makes an incredible comeback, attracting persuasive entrepreneur V.A. Vandevere (Michael Keaton), who recruits Dumbo for his newest, larger-than-life entertainment venture, Dreamland. Dumbo soars to new heights alongside a charming and spectacular aerial artist, Colette Marchant (Eva Green), until Holt learns that beneath its shiny veneer, Dreamland is full of dark secrets. Dumbo is coming to cinemas on 29 March. For more information, please visit www.disney.co.uk.

Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun Get ready for Peppa’s biggest celebration yet when the muddiest ever festival comes to cinema screens to celebrate 15 years of Peppa Pig. Little piggies can look forward to 10 brand new episodes including a two-part festival special, as well as exclusive new interactive entertainment featuring little ones singing and playing along with their favourite onscreen characters. Join the party with Peppa and George in their brand new adventures as they dance in the mud at a children’s festival, celebrate Grandpa Pig’s birthday at a restaurant for the ﬁrst time and take a trip to the cinema to see Super Potato’s big movie feature. The newest release from Peppa Pig: My First Cinema Experience offers a whole hour of snorts and giggles.With songs to singalong to and games to join in with, it’s perfect for pre-schoolers and all the family to have fun with Peppa and her friends. Peppa Pig: Festival of Fun will be in cinemas from 5 April.

Missing Link Hugh Jackman is Sir Lionel Frost, a brave and dashing adventurer who considers himself to be the world’s foremost investigator of myths and monsters.The trouble is, no one else seems to agree. He sees a chance to prove himself by travelling to America’s Pacific Northwest to discover a living remnant of Man’s primitive ancestry – the missing link. Zach Galifianakis is Mr. Link, the slightly silly, surprisingly smart and soulful beast who Sir Lionel discovers.As species go, he’s as endangered as they get. He’s quite possibly the last of his kind. He’s lonely, and he believes that Sir Lionel is the one man alive who can help him.Together they set out around the world to seek out Link’s distant relatives in the fabled valley of Shangri-La.Along with the resourceful Adelina Fortnight (Zoe Saldana), the unlikely trio embark on a riotous rollercoaster ride of a journey. Missing Link will be released in cinemas on 5 April. For more information, please visit www.missinglinkfilm.co.uk.

Films to Look Forward to It’s looking to be a Disney year this year, with seven new films currently set to be released.As Disney go from strength to strength, there are two films in particular that we are very excited about at Primary Times:Aladdin and Frozen 2. After a worldwide search for the cast, Mena Massoud will play the title role of Aladdin in the live action remake, along with Naomi Scott playing the Sultan’s daughter, Jasmine, and Will Smith taking on the iconic role of the Genie.The film promises to be a hit, with songs from the original movie plus a few new ones too. Catch it when it flies into cinemas on 24 May. Frozen 2 is set to be released this November, and will show the return of the film’s five lovable characters - Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven. Expect adventure and excitement as the team venture far into the forest to learn the truth about an ancient mystery of their kingdom. Photo credit: Daniel Smith

A Dog’s Journey Coming up after Easter is a treat for any canine fans.A Dog’s Journey reminds us that some friendships transcend lifetimes. In the sequel to the heartwarming global hit A Dog’s Purpose, beloved dog Bailey finds his new destiny and forms an unbreakable bond that will lead him, and the people he loves, to places they never imagined. Bailey (voiced again by Josh Gad) is living the good life on the Michigan farm of his boy, Ethan and Ethan’s wife Hannah. Bailey has a new playmate, Ethan and Hannah’s baby granddaughter, CJ.The problem is that CJ’s mom, Gloria, decides to take CJ away.As Bailey’s soul prepares to leave this life for a new one, he makes a promise to Ethan to find CJ and protect her at any cost.Thus begins Bailey’s adventure through multiple lives filled with love, friendship and devotion as he, CJ, and CJ’s best friend Trent experience joy and heartbreak, music and laughter, and few really good belly rubs.A Dog’s Journey will be released on 3 May. For more information, please visit www.adogsjourneymovie.com.

Win a Bundle of Grinch Goodies The Grinch lives a solitary life inside a cave on Mount Crumpit. Every Christmas, the Whos disrupt the Grinch’s tranquil solitude with their celebrations, and when they declare they are going to make Christmas three times bigger this year, the Grinch realises he must steal Christmas. Meanwhile, Cindy-Lou is plotting to trap Santa Claus on Christmas Eve so that she can thank him for helping her overworked single mother. Will Cindy-Lou achieve her goal or will the Grinch succeed in silencing the Whos’ holiday cheer once and for all? Dr Seuss’ The Grinch is available now on 4K Ultra HD, 3D Bluray, Blu-ray and DVD from Illumination and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Primary Times has five bundles of Grinch goodies to give away to five lucky readers. For your chance to win, simply tell us where the Grinch lives. Send your answer to us along with your name, age, address, school and phone number to The Grinch Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London SE12 8LG or email your answer together with your details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with ‘The Grinch’ as the subject by Friday 26 April.

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

What’s On

More What’s On

Your family diary for March, April & May Val Hunt from throw-away materials. Charges apply. For more details visit museum.maidstone.gov.uk

May Costume Tours, Smallhythe Place, Tenterden, TN30 7NG 1.15pm-2pm. Delve into the store for a peek at the costumes once worn by Ellen Terry and her actor friends. With fascinating stories attached to each garment, costume tours are an opportunity to discover a rich theatrical history. Charges apply.Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/smallhytheplace

Sat 4 May – Sun 5 May

Blancpain GT World Challenge Europe, Brands Hatch Circuit, Longfield, DA3 8NG The 2019 Blancpain GT World Challenge Europe kicks off with a mouth-watering supercar spectacular, starring racing versions of some of the planet’s most exotic performance cars. Under 13s are admitted free. Charges apply. For more details visit www.brandshatch.co.uk

Sat 4 – Mon 6 May

May Day Festival, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Traditional celebrations to welcome in the spring from the mythical Green Man of folklore and Jack-in-theGreen plus a duckling trail, children’s face painting and more. Admission charges apply. For more details visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

Merton Vintage Show, Staple Street, Faversham (Near Canterbury) ME13 9HY Enjoy a spectacular three day annual event. There will be various different trades, craft, auto jumble and boot stalls for guests to wander round as well as a fun dog show, various bouncy inflatables and face painting. For more details visit www. mertonvintageshow.co.uk

Sat 4 – Tues 7 May

Literary Festival, Chiddingstone Castle, TN8 7AD Four days of exciting talks and performances from famous authors, poets and theatrical groups spread throughout the historic house and grounds of Chiddingstone Castle. Events are suitable for both adults and children. Charges apply. For more details visit www.chiddingstonecastle. org.uk

Sun 5 May

Betteshanger Bikes, Betteshanger Park, Deal, CT14 0BF 10am-11.30am. Join the weekly cycle club for young mountain bikers. Learn awesome skills and take part in exciting games from British Cycling qualified coaches. Suitable for ages 8-14. Charges apply. For more information visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk

Bluebell Walk 2019, Heart of Kent Hospice, Harrietsham Village Hall, ME17 1AP Begin your 6 mile walk anytime between 8.30am and 10am amongst the Bluebells on the North Downs. Afterwards, refuel with hot food and refreshments from the village hall. For more information and to register visit www.hokh.org

Cream Tea Trains, East Kent Railway Trust, Shepherdswell, CT15 7PD Go along on a trip on the scenic railway and enjoy a delicious cream tea while admiring the view. For more details and to book tickets visit www. eastkentrailway.co.uk

Sun 5 – Mon 6 May

Jack the Station Cat and Edward Bear Weekend, Sittingbourne’s Steam Railway, ME10 2DZ 11am-4pm. Jack the Station Cat and Edward Bear are stars in a series of children’s books available from the Railway Shop.You will also be able to meet them and win a prize by completing the mouse hunt. Charges apply. For more details visit www.sklr. net

Mon 6 May

Spring Fair, Belmont House and Gardens, Faversham, ME13 0HH 11am–4pm. Browse through a superb range of quality plants and herbs, garden-related gifts, artwork and more.

Sat 4 May – Sun 1 Sep

Endangered and Extinct, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH A family-friendly exhibition of sculptural animals, birds, fish and flora on the edge of extinction, or totally lost, fashioned with ingenuity, humour and skill by creative recycling artist

25 Mar - 12 May ‘19

Our listings are prepared a long time in advance. To make sure you have the latest details do contact the event nearer the time to make sure they haven’t changed

“

I saw your event in Primary Times.... Please mention you saw the event listed in Primary Times

Mon 13 – Sun 19 May

Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk, Nationwide

”

There will be a collection of local crafters and artisans with unique quality hand-made gifts. Local food and drink will be available too. For more details visit www.belmonthouse.org

Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave, Dreamland, Margate, CT9 1XJ 2-4pm. Go along to this Flower Power themed family event on a dance floor complete with bubbles, balloons, confetti cannons and more. Expect crafts, colouring and toddler play space. Charges apply. For more details and to book visit www. dreamland.co.uk

Wed 8 May

Happy’s Circus, Shoreham Village School, TN14 7SN A community event and all are welcome. Gates will open at 4pm for fun-filled games, entertainment, bar, hotdogs and confectionery. Charges apply. To book visit www.pta-events. co.uk/foss2019

Sat 11 May

Festability, Quex Park and Powell-Cotton Museum, Birchington, CT7 0BH 12noon-8pm. Festability is a Music Festival for people with disabilities living in Kent. There are over 50,000 children, young people & adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in Kent. For more details visit www.quexpark.co.uk

Sat 11 - Sun 12 May

Motors by the Moat, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL Get up close to hundreds of vintage, high performance and classic cars. The cars will be displayed on the Castle lawns for the whole family to enjoy.Visitors can also enjoy a brand new programme of events, including a jaw-dropping Jet Ski display on the moat. To book visit www.leeds-castle. com

Sun 12 May

Join thousands across the UK and organise a Muddy Puddle Walk with your family and get sponsored to raise money for Save the Children. For more details and to sign up for a free fundraising pack visit www. savethechildren.org.uk

Fri 17 May

Bat Walk, Bough Beech, Sevenoaks, TN14 6LD 8-10.30pm. After an introduction in the barn, with a chance to see a live bat, go for a walk around the farm fields and meadows looking out for bats and other night creatures. Ages 5+. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Sat 18 May

Family Festival, Riverview Junior School, Gravesend, DA12 4SD 2-8pm. Everyone is welcome to this family community event. There will be activities for kids of all ages. Expect a variety of craft and gift stalls, refreshments including a BBQ and bar and live music and entertainment. For further details email parent_ association@riverview-junior.kent. sch.uk

Creative DSLR Photography Workshop, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, TN13 3DH 10am-1pm. Learn how to better utilise your camera for nature photography and the best techniques to get shots of landscapes and wildlife with expert photographer Sarah Medway. Charges apply. For more details visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

Sun 19 May

It’s a Knockout, Government Acre, Ramsgate, CT11 0HE 9am-3.30pm. Go along for a hilarious day full of inflatable fun, outrageous costumes and a knockout challenge. It’s a Knockout is a fun-tastic way to support Pilgrims and help be there for the next family that needs you. For more details and to register www.pilgrimshospices.org Our next copy deadline is

26 April 2019 Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

All your own work! Millie aged 10

Ella Easton Millns aged 7

There was a young pirate from Wye. Who sat in a smelly pig stye. When they said does it smell? He said, no it's swell. That silly young pirate from Wye.

Bintcliffe won The Cat in the competitions in our February Half Term issue. Katie Congratulations to the following people who won e Marshall, Megan Bloom, Sophi . Prockter won a family pass to Leeds Castle Hat competition at the Rose Theatre. Chloe and Katie Richardson won a family Aiden es. bundl prize ' with a Clock in it's Walls Jay Jackman and Lola Wilson-Day won 'The House l - St Johns CE books was won by Alexander Maxim for his schoo ticket to Marvel's Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. A box of a Omari, Eshal Pervaiz, Halim to way Book Day competition are on their Primary. Bundles of LegoÂŽ Books from the World by Will Saunders, won were bags goody King Kid Who Would Be Emma Pydyn, Santiago Bolea and Bertie Lambie. The membership to family l annua the won Kay BA Mrs nor. O'Con Ava-Rose Callum Gokani, Isabelle Shurety, Bobby Sharp and older winner our and group 's drawing competition for the younger age Amberley Museum. Ella Easton Millns won Annie rk artwo all our winners and enjoy the If you would like to see with a drawing and poem was Millie. Well done to on this page. your work displayed

here then just send us a drawing, poem, riddles, jokes or short story and we'll do our very best to include it. Send it to: Good Work Page Primary Times 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG

Thank you to Jay for the Children of the World picture, Emilia Narkevic for her Young Voices drawing, Rose Batty for her Spring scene and Prajina Gopikishna for her Unicorn style picture We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us.

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Park open from 6th April, see website for details Book ride wristbands in advance and save 25%

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