East Kent February Half Term 2018 Primary Times by Alison Watson

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IDE U NG O T’S A WH

for families with primary aged children

February Half Term Edition Issue 108 29 January - 18 March 2018

in East Kent

! h s a l p S a e Mak Swallows re t n e C e r u s i e L 12th

Tennis - Mon Tue 13th y b g u R g a T ed 14th Football - W 15th Tennis - Thu Fri 16th Sports Day e & Thu u T e g n e l l a Aqua Ch

Sheppey x e l p m o C e r u Leis l Sessions oo Family Fun P ble Pool Inflata Soft Play

www.swaleleisure.com

The Best Family Guide to What’s On

What’s On Your family diary for February and March Ongoing Until 4 Feb

Clangers, Bagpuss and Co, Sissinghurst Castle, Nr Cranbrook, TN17 2AB 11am–4pm. Organised by the V&A Museum of Childhood, Clangers, Bagpuss and Co tells the story of these much loved family favourites. Go and meet Bagpuss, see the Soup Dragon and behold Noggin the Nog. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ sissinghurst-castle-garden

Until 2 Mar

My Ightham Mote Winter Adventure, Ightham Mote, Nr Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT 10am–3.30pm. Have fun in the countryside with the winter activity pack as you tick off some of the best 50 things to do before you’re 11¾. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote

January Fri 26 Jan – Sun 18 Feb

The Early Man Trail, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe, DA9 9ST If you’re looking for an adventure, you can search for twelve prehistoric characters from the new Early Man movie. Pick up a trail map from concierge desk outside M&S lower mall. Find all the characters to win a prize. For more information visit www.bluewater.co.uk

Tues 30 Jan

Storytime and Book Making, Strood Library, Rochester, ME2 4TJ 4-5pm. Join in for Storytime and a book making activity to celebrate National Storytelling Week. Ages 4-10. Free event. For more information and to book call 01634 337 799.

Sat 3 – Sun 25 Feb

Dark Skies, Deal Castle, CT14 7BA Experience the starry night sky as expert astronomers reveal stargazing secrets. Unwind with a hot drink as you listen to talks and demonstrations. For more information visit www.englishheritage.org.uk

Sun 4 Feb

Farmers’ Market, Ashford, TN24 8TD 10am–2pm. Snap-up a variety of delicious home-grown produce, from seasonal fruit and vegetables to tempting sweets from the food stalls. Listen to live music from local bands as you stroll through Ashford’s cobbled streets. For more information visit www.visitkent.co.uk

Wed 7 Feb

Skips After School Club, Theatre Royal Brighton, BN1 1SD 4pm. Led by experienced workshop leaders, these are fun and informal sessions. This Dragon themed session includes games, a look on stage, drama and craft activities and squash and biscuits. Ages 6-10. Charges apply. To book visit www.atgtickets.com

Fri 9 – Sun 18 Feb

Circus Zyair, The Hop Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY Treat the kids to a spectacular show! A ragtag band of clowns, acrobats and jugglers plies its distinctive talents before fearless daredevils brave the high wire and wheel of death. For more information and to book tickets visit www.thehopfarm. co.uk

Sat 10 Feb

Winter Olympics, Strood Library, Community Hub Strood, ME2 4TJ 2-3pm. Pop-in Winter Olympic literary games for 4-10 yrs. For more information about this free event visit www.enjoymedway.org/events

February Thurs 1 Feb

Harry Potter book Night, Strood Library, Community Hub Strood, ME2 4TJ 4-5pm. Celebrate Harry Potter book night with a special storytime and craft activity for 4-10 yrs. Costumes are encouraged for this free event. For more information visit www. enjoymedway.org/events

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

”

Film Fun: The Jungle Book, St Mary the Virgin, Ashford, TN23 1QG 1.15pm. Be ready to swing with the king of the jungle in the screening of The Jungle Book. Small entry charge applies. For more information and to book visit www.revelationashford. co.uk

Film Fun: Mary Poppins, St Mary the Virgin, Ashford, TN23 1QG 3.15pm. A Disney classic starring Julie Andrews as magical nanny Mary Poppins. Small entry fee applies. For more information and to book visit www.revelationashford.co.uk

Sat 10 – Sun 11 Feb

See PJ Masks Catboy, Gekko & Owlette! Spa Valley Railway, Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5QY Children’s favourites from the PJ Masks will be on hand to see their fans arriving on trains hauled by a steam and diesel locomotive from Tunbridge Wells West. For times, more information and to book visit www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

Sat 10 – Fri 16 Feb

Children’s Week on the Railway, Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, Hythe Station, TN28 8PL Members of The Travel Bug can travel free during Children’s Week on the Railway. Also, there are free activities for all Romney Rover ticket holders. For more information visit www.rhdr. org.uk

Half Term Trail, Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS Explore the gardens and woodland on a new trail inspired Lady Clementine Churchill, wife of Sir Winston. Why not venture out to the bomb crater in the woodland or go wild in the outdoor play area. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell

Scavenger Hunt, Betteshanger Country Park, Deal, CT14 0BF 10.30am–3pm. Put your tracking skills to the test and hunt for the objects hidden around the park. Check everything off your list, crack the code and claim your prize. A fun family day out. For more information visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk

Geocaching, Betteshanger Country Park, Deal, CT14 0BF New routes will take you to unexplored parts of the park, track the cache locations using a handheld GPS and find the hidden clues and treasures. Give the new and improved geocaching courses a try. For more information and to book visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk

Enchanted Garden Trails, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG 10.30am–5.30pm. Discover the enchanted forest dwellers who have descended from the parkland to visit the grounds. Each character holds a clue that will help you unveil their hidden message on your trail sheet. For more information visit www. penshurstplace.com

Family Half Term Fun - Living with Nature, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG In conjunction with the RSPB and during National Nest Box Week spend some time at one with nature. Various activities including a Wildlife Detective Walk, Bug House Building, Castle Trail and RSPB Workshop. Admission charges apply.For more information visit www.hevercastle. co.uk/whatson

Sat 10 – Sun 18 Feb

February Half Term Trail, Ightham Mote, Nr Sevenoaks, TN15 0NT

Become a junior outdoor explorer this Half Term and follow your activity booklet around the grounds to solve clues, spot wildlife and be rewarded with a chocolate prize at the end. Included with the admission price. For more information visit www.leeds-castle.com

10am to 4pm. Discover the classic story of the Elf Mound as you follow the trail around the garden. Pick up a winter activity pack full of fun ideas and tips for playing outside. For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/ightham-mote

Half Term Explorers, Leeds Castle, Maidstone, ME17 1PL

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 12... Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse

Dear Readers

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Peter and the Primary

Times team

The Primary Times Team: Publishing Editor: Peter Watson Sales: Gill Pearce, Andrew Langridge, Sarah-Jane Chapple & Clarry Frewin ... the UK’s biggest free Listings: Hayley Hughes & ‘What’s On’ magazine Miriam Theobald for parents. Editorial: Anna Stringer & Primary Times in East Kent Dunya Simões distributes more than 38,500 Production: Alison Watson copies seven times a year and Office Manager: Chris Blower is part of a national network Administrators: Claire Wood & distributing more than 2.7 Tina Love million copies in 59 regions Proof Reader: Catherine Draisey across the UK & Ireland Social Media: Rachel Benson

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Primary Times in East Kent 7 Southbrook Mews London SE12 8LG

Primary Times is independently published and distributed free in infant and primary schools throughout Kent. 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. 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 the editor nor publisher will accept any liability for the accuracy of the editorial or advertising contained within the publication. We welcome listings being 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 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.... News................................................... 4 Family Theatre.................................... 6 Whatever the Weather....................... 8 Education News.......................................10 Competitions....................................... 13 Family Travel Ideas............................ 16 Film Preview Guide............................ 21 All About You!................................... 23

Kent is Delicious Cookery Competition Open to all primary school age children in Kent In groups of up to four, create a breakfast dish using local, seasonal ingredients

Three lucky groups will be chosen to cook their dishes in the main Show Kitchen at the Kent County Show on Friday 6th July with prizes of:

1st Prize £300 2 runners-up prizes of £100 (for cookery or gardening projects for your group)*

Closing date 25th May 2018 For full competition details and how to enter visit: www.canterburydiocese.org/kentisdelicious @KentisDelicious Email kentisdelicious@diocant.org for more information and the chance to win mini prizes *Prizes given as gift vouchers

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

News

Indicates a book is part of a series

Bookstore

Here are some ideas for reads for World Book Day on 8 March. This year is the centenary of the first women getting the vote. One of these is an eye opening story concerning the actions of suffragettes who fought to achieve this.

STAR READ

Nevermoor - Jessica Townsend (Orion Hb, £12.99)

Debbie

Morrigan is used to being blamed for every calamity around and knows her life will be short. She is less accepting of the fact than those around her and dreads the approaching day of her death. But at the last minute she is whisked away by a mysterious patron to an even more mysterious land called Nevermoor she didn’t know existed.There she is told she must undergo a series of trials to gain admittance to the Wundrous Society making her one of the elite and offering her protection. This is a frightening prospect and she is already unsure of everything and everyone around her, but it’s better than the life she had before. As she starts to appreciate the place and make friends the need to succeed becomes stronger, but what is it all about and how can she discover her special knack? There are plenty of shocks ahead, not all of them good, in this well crafted, absorbing story full of entertaining characters, magic, intrigue and inventive plot twists. First in a new series with fair size print to encourage readers on to longer novels.

Emmeline and the Plucky Pup Megan Rix (Puffin, £5.99)

After running away from the workhouse Alfie and his sister Daisy are taken in by Emmeline Pankhurst. He learns that she is the leader of the Suffragettes starting their ‘Votes for Women’ campaign which causes conflicts with the authorities. During one protest meeting Alfie rescues a puppy he calls Rascal and together they become messengers for Mrs Pankhurst, helping to keep lines of communication open. As the campaign hots up and suffragettes are arrested enduring terrible hardships in prison, Alfie and Rascal are often placed in dangerous situations narrowly avoiding capture.This story is full of excitement, adventure and historical detail dealing with actual events that took place between 1910 and 1918. Many of the characters are based on real people and it paints a vivid picture of the struggles that eventually led to women getting the vote. Fair size print, full length novel.

Trouble in New York - Jennifer Gray (Usborne, £5.99) S

Adopted by the Grand Duchess Maria, Ermine is a very lucky and determined stoat.The duchess asks her friend, Michael Megabucks, to look after Ermine as she stays in New York on the ﬁrst stop of her trip to see the world. Ermine and Michael’s son, Mike Junior, get on well especially when she saves him from being eaten by crocodiles. But they are unaware their adventures have only just begun as they are inadvertently mixed up with two jewel thieves who want their jewel back.This leads to all sorts of exciting episodes in this laugh out loud story, ﬁrst in a new series ‘The Travels of Ermine’, with an endearing and highly entertaining title character. Large print and lots of detailed pictures add to the plot and encourage new readers.

Dog in Boots - Paula Metcalf (Oxford, £6.99) Phillip is smitten from the moment he sees his new neighbour, Penelope, with her kind eyes, waggly tail and beautiful smile. But there is a big (or should that be small?) problem. Although they have only seen each other through windows, Penelope looks very tall while Phillip is very short. Desperate to impress her, he comes up with some cunning plans, with the help of his friend, Ralph, but they are rather disastrous leaving Phillip devastated, while Penelope seems happy. Find out why in this touching and very funny picture book with revealing ﬂaps to lift.

Text © D J Williams 2018

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Kent is Delicious Cookery Competition A survey by the British Nutrition Foundation last year showed that nearly a third of the five to seven-year-olds asked thought that cheese came from a plant. It’s often suggested that getting young people involved in cooking can help them be more interested in their food. A cookery competition championing the fantastic produce available in Kent is now seeking to do just that. Open to all primaryschool aged children in Kent, the Kent is Delicious Cookery Competition is easy for any primary or junior school, homeschool group, Rainbow, Cub or Scout pack to get involved with. All participants need to do is to create a breakfast recipe that uses as many local and seasonal ingredients as possible. With a first prize of £300, 2 runners-up prizes of £100 (given in vouchers) for a cookery or gardening project and a chance to cook at the Kent County Show up for grabs, it’s well worth stepping up to the ‘hot’ plate to get involved. With so much confusion among people about where their food comes from, Kent is Delicious is a really fun way for children to get hands-on with their food. The Kent is Delicious Cookery Competition is organised by the Diocese of Canterbury’s Communities and Partnerships team and closes on Friday 25 May. For more details, contact kentisdelicious@ diocant.org.

Young Musicians get ‘Flute Wise’

On Sunday 14 January, Kent College Canterbury hosted a magnificent day of music making, when young flute players from around the Canterbury area were invited to participate in ‘The Really Flutewise Day’. As well as pupils from both Kent College’s Junior and Senior Schools, other schools represented included Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar, Sir Roger Manwood’s School and Herne Junior School. Workshops took place throughout the day with internationally renowned flautist Abby Burrows and multi awardwinning flautist, composer and arranger Gareth McLearnon, both of whom play regularly in the orchestral pits of West End Theatre. Through fun group activities, the children learned new playing techniques, skills for practising, and enjoyed putting together a variety of ensemble music, which included well-known tunes from musicals, for a concert at the end of the day. The children also got a chance to try out new instruments of all sizes, including a mighty contra-bass flute, brought along by Patrick Onn from the flute specialist ‘Top Wind’.

This Spring will see the return of the UK’s muddiest fundraising event for little ones – Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children. Last year saw 160,000 children across the UK take part, raising an incredible £243,000 for Save the Children’s vital work, and this year the charity hopes even more people will sign up, take part and donate. Between 23 and 29 April reception classes, nurseries, early years groups, families and children up and down the country are being encouraged to take part in a Muddy Puddle Walk to raise money for the international children’s charity.

Calling all Budding Writers!

WICKED, the award-winning West End musical that tells the incredible untold story of the witches of Oz, together with the National Literacy Trust, has announced the eighth year of the prestigious WICKED Young Writer Awards. The closing date is 12 March so enter as soon as you can! Details can be found at www.WickedYoungWriterAwards.com. As in previous years, entrants can enter one of five different age categories; 5-7yrs, 8-10yrs, 11-14yrs, 15-17yrs and18-25 yrs. Pieces of original writing can be submitted, either individually or as part of a school group, until 12 March.

Organising a Muddy Puddle Walk is a great way for your little ones to explore the world around them and jump in muddy puddles, just like Peppa Pig, for a worthy cause. Whether you splash in puddles along a trail at the park or get creative and make your own puddles indoors from paper and foil – your Muddy Puddle Walk will be a fun day to spend together that littles ones won’t forget. Raise funds in the way that suits you – help walkers get sponsored for their walk, ask for a donation to take part or even bake Muddy Puddle cupcakes to sell on the day.

The overall winners from each category will win a VIP family experience to the West End production of WICKED, including an exclusive backstage tour, £50 book/ eBook tokens, the 5-7yrs, 8-11yrs and 11-14yrs categories will win £100 worth of books for their school library donated by Hachette Children’s Books. In addition the 5-7 age category winners will receive a creative writing workshop for their class. The three schools with the highest number of entries will receive a bespoke writing workshop at their respective schools. All finalists’ entries will be printed in the WICKED Young Writer Awards anthology.

By taking part in a Muddy Puddle Walk and raising money for Save the Children, you can help vulnerable children around the world have a safe place to play and learn. Sign up now at MuddyPuddleWalk.org for your free Muddy Puddle Walk Fundraising Pack full of fun Peppa Pig inspired activities to help you get started.

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

News

Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children

Chocolate Orange Brownies

Get tucked into original recipes from some of your favourite sport and entertainment stars in a new book put together by triathlete coach Helen Murray.Try the Murray family’s legendary shortbread recipe, enjoy protein mufﬁns from Alec Stewart, former England cricket captain and taste delicious gooey chocolate crispy squares, with an indulgent recipe from BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Rachel Burden. Try this delicious recipe for yummy Chocolate Orange Brownies by Lucy Andrews. It’s pretty simple but you should make sure you have an adult with you especially when you’re using the hot oven.

Method:

Ingredients: 200g butter 200g dark chocolate Zest of 1 large orange 4 large eggs 350g caster sugar 100g plain ﬂour (also works with gluten free ﬂour) 50g cocoa powder 1 Terry’s Chocolate Orange broken into pieces (milk or dark)

These delicious Chocolate Orange Brownies are just one of the many recipes for you to discover in the new book, Fuelled by More Cake. Proceeds from the book will raise money for several charities including Young Epilepsy, a national charity which supports children and young people aged 25 and under with epilepsy and associated conditions, as well as their families. Their unique blend of specialist services includes a school, college and residential services providing education and healthcare for children and young people. Find out more at www.youngepilepsy.org.uk

Stage 1

stage 2 start

stage 2 finish

stage 3 start

1 Start by lining a 24 x 20cm brownie tin with baking parchment and preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas mark 4.

2 Melt the butter, dark chocolate and orange zest over a gentle heat and then leave to cool.

3 Whisk the eggs and sugar together with an electric whisk until pale and doubled in volume, then stir in the cooled chocolate mixture. 4. Sift over the ﬂour and cocoa and fold in, before gently stirring in the chocolate orange. 5 Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 35-40 minutes. 6 Leave to cool in the tin and then cut it into 20 squares.

stage 3 finish

stage 4 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

stage 5 5

Family Theatre

Hans Christian Andersen’s most well-loved stories: The Ugly Duckling, The Princess and the Pea, The Steadfast Tin Soldier and The Emperor’s New Clothes.

5 – 7 Mar

Swan Lake

Family Theatre Avenue Sittingbourne Box Office: 01795 471 140 14 – 17 Feb

Sleeping Beauty

A classic fun filled pantomime for all the family to enjoy during the Half Term.

Gulbenkian Canterbury Box Office: 01227 769 075 4 Feb

Hare and Tortoise

A delightful adaptation of Aesop’s fable about opposites, time and friendship for children aged 3+ and their families.

25 Mar

Red Riding Hood and the Wolf Robyn wants to tell you what really happened through a world of homemade makebelieve. Enjoy a new spin on this classic story – about two misfits who just want to fit in. Ages 7+.

Marlowe Canterbury Box Office: 01227 787 787 12 Feb

Morgan & West: More Magic for Kids

A marvellous magic show full of crazy capers for the young, old, and everyone in-between! Expect the unexpected and believe the unbelievable. Ages 5+.

11 Feb

Bear & Butterfly

Puppetry, live music and beautiful storytelling combine in this Enjoy charming tale about the show! love, loss and friendship. Ages And don’t 4+. forget to say

12 Feb

The Gingerbread Man

you saw it in

13 – 14 Feb

Peppa Pig’s Adventure

Join Peppa as she gets ready to go on an exciting camping trip to the woods with George and her school friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe.

Primary Times!

Hiccup Theatre cook up a brand new version of this classic tale adding delicious original live music, tasty storytelling and dollops of fun. Ages 3+.

4 Mar

Three Billy Goats Gruff & Other Furry Tales

The perplexing question of fairy tales - what really happened between the wolf and his three porky friends? Ages 3+.

11 Mar

Much Ado About Puffin

Join Open Attic as they traverse stormy seas and reckless tides to bring you this funny tale about a man all alone, a friendly puffin, and a whole lot of fuss over nothing. Ages 4+.

14 Feb

Comedy Club 4 Kids

Go along to see the best comedians for the UK and world circuit doing what they do best but without the rude bits. Ages 6+.

16 – 17 Feb

The Princess and the Frog

Let’s All Dance is delighted to return with this beautiful, classical ballet to charm audiences young and old. Ages 2-9.

3 Mar

The Ugly Duckling and Other Tales

From one of the greatest children’s authors come four of 6

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

The greatest romantic ballet of all time is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score. Presented by The Russian State Ballet and Orchestra Of Siberia.

8 Mar

Cinderella

The favourite rags to riches fairy-tale where dreams can come true is a magical mix of lively choreography and colourful costumes. Presented by The Russian State Ballet and Orchestra Of Siberia.

9 Mar

Romeo and Juliet

Shakespeare’s tale of primal passion and timeless tragedy is brought to life by Prokofiev’s soaring score, set in bustling Renaissance Verona. Presented by The Russian State Ballet and Orchestra Of Siberia.

10 Mar

The Nutcracker

This most famous of fantasy ballets for all the family begins as night falls on Christmas Eve. Presented by The Russian State Ballet and Orchestra of Siberia.

17 Mar

More Magic for Kids!

Time-travelling magicians Morgan & West return to the stage with a marvellous magic show full of crazy capers for the young, old, and everyone in-between. Ages 5+.

Theatre Royal Margate Box Office: 01843 292 795 15 – 17 Feb

Cinder-ella: Police Panto The boys and girls in blue are back to entertain you, all in the name of raising money for charity. With laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes, and a few twists here and there.

3 Mar

More Magic for Kids!

Time-travelling magicians Morgan & West return to the stage with a marvellous magic show full of crazy capers for the young and old. Bigger, bolder and more brilliant than before! Ages 5+.

3 Mar

Return of the TimeTravelling Magicians

Time-travelling magicians Morgan & West bring a magical extravaganza, an unforgettable evening of magic, mystery and the unexplainable. Ages 7+.

18 Mar

Monstersaurus!

24 Mar

Where’s my Igloo Gone? Oolik is an ordinary girl who goes on an extraordinary adventure to save her igloo home. On her way she meets some exciting friends to help her – including you. Ages 5+.

Follow the young inventor Monty as he creates a whole world of whacky inventions and incredible monsters, but now he has made them all how is he going to get rid of them?! Ages 3+.

Playhouse Whitstable

Tom Thumb Margate

Box Office: 01227 272 042 10 Feb

Box Office: 01843 221 791 11 Feb

The Belle Family in Wonderland

Nick Cope

Join in the adventure as the Belle Family returns in this all new extravaganza. A school production from BSS.

Nick Cope is a professional singer and songwriter. He writes and records music for children and has established a fanatical army of little people and their parents from all over the world.

Quarterhouse Folkestone

Winter Gardens Margate

Box Office: 01303 760 750 14 – 18 Feb

Red Riding Hood & the Wolf

Robyn wants to tell you what really happened through a world of homemade makebelieve. Enjoy a new spin on this classic story – about two misfits who just want to fit in. Ages 7+.

Box Office: 01843 292 795 13 Feb

The Last Magic Dragon

Can you help Fairy Moonbeam, Simple Simon and Tommy the Cat beat the Wizard Caliban and save the last magic Dragon? A panto style half term treat.

The Jungle Book WED 25 - SUN 29 APR

An exciting new adaptation of Kipling’s classic. marlowetheatre.com (bkg fee) 01227 787787 (bkg fee)

February Half Term Activities at Swale Community Leisure Sheppey Leisure Complex

Swallows Leisure Centre

Family Fun Pool Sessions

Tennis - Mon 12th Tag Rugby - Tue 13th Football - Wed 14th

Pool Inflatable

Tennis - Thu 15th

Soft Play

Sports Day - Fri 16th Aqua Challenge - Tue & Thu

Sheppey Leisure Complex Off the Broadway, Sheerness, Kent, ME12 1HH Swimming Pool: 01796 668652

/SheppeyLeisureComplex

Follow usxon - @PT_Kent Swale 190 135Twitter Feb 2018.indd 1

Swallows Leisure Centre Central Avenue, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME10 4NT Tel: 01795 420420

/SwallowsLeisure

Book early & save!

www.swaleleisure.com 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

02/01/2018 14:36

Whatever the Weather! Fun Days Out with the Family admission is 3pm and gates close at 5pm (October to March). For more information on Leeds Castle attractions, activities and events during 2018 visit, www.leeds-castle.com.

Half Term Fun at Howletts

Secret Lab: Light Fantastic

There is lots to keep you busy this year at the Historic Dockyard, Chatham. Have you ever wondered why red light is used in submarines? Doc.Yard’s able assistant Bunsen is back from Saturday 10 until Sunday 25 February with all things Light Fantastic in a fun and interactive 45-minute experience at The Historic Dockyard. This year marks The Dockyard’s 400th birthday and Secret Lab: Light Fantastic will kick off a fun-packed season of events, talks, exhibitions and activities. With four zones of interactive fun, there’s something for everyone. Be careful not to be fooled by the optical illusions as you walk through – the bridge on the floor is quite high up! Learn about reflections in a room of mirrors followed by the scientific magic of lasers making balloons burst.You can even explore the use of light in submarines and look at periscopes too. Don’t miss the splat zone, where mixing paint colours shows how Thomas Edison invented the light bulb. Step into a UV zone and see whether anything you’re wearing shows up. Grab your lab coat and glasses upon arrival and prepare for some Light Fantastic fun at The Historic Dockyard Chatham this February Half Term. For more information please visit www.thedockyard.co.uk.

Half Term Explorers at Leeds Castle

Explore a world of conservation this February Half Term at Howletts Wild Animal Park. Discover the largest herd of African elephants in the UK, see gorillas and primates, walk with lemurs in the lovely ‘Walking With Lemurs’ garden and get up close to beautiful big cats in their glass fronted, open top enclosures. From Saturday 10 to Sunday 18 February, Howletts are encouraging visitors to fall in love with the snow leopards and help raise funds for the Park’s vital conservation work, by taking part in a raffle to win a once in a lifetime snow leopard encounter. See how many adorable new arrivals you can spot, including the clouded leopard cubs and baby antelope, and join Howletts’ Education Team for free animal talks, crafts, activities and competitions. Don’t forget to test your skills on the exciting Treetop Challenge with high ropes, bridges, zip wires and more, or for younger adventurers,

’S

DOC. YARD FAMILY FU ACTIVIT N IES

Set within 500 acres of beautiful Kent parkland, Leeds Castle has attracted crusaders and kings, courtiers and queens, witches and villains, world statesmen and icons of the silver screen. Explore the Yew Maze or conquer the Knight’s Realm and Squires’ Courtyard adventure playgrounds.You can even watch the daily free flying falconry displays.

Light Fantastic

Become a junior explorer in the grounds of Leeds Castle from 10 to 18 February. Follow an exciting fun packed activity booklet filled with clues to help you spot different birds and trees as you adventure through the Castle estate. Complete your journey and be rewarded with a chocolate prize. This event is included in the price of admission. A valid admission ticket to Leeds Castle is required. Annual tickets cost £24.90 for adults, £21.90 for seniors and visitors with disabilities (carer goes free) and £16.90 for children (under 4s free). The grounds open at 10am daily and the castle is open from 10.30am. Last 8

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INCLUD IN YOU ED ENTR R TICKETY

thedockyard.co.uk

TH TH - 25 0 1 RY FEBRUA 2018

Kindly supported by

#secretlab Follow us on Instagram - @primarytimesse

Book your day tickets online and save 10% on your wild winter day out. For further information, visit www.aspinallfoundation.org/ howletts

Fun for all the family at

All to Discover

Carano Events, well known and respected for hosting quality arts and crafts fairs in Kent, where everything is lovingly handcrafted by talented artisans all set out in beautiful venues, is now extending this ethos, organizing 4 exciting family days out at the Discovery Event Centre in Sandwich. The first event on 25 March will have, in addition to a large variety of arts & crafts, psychic mediums and tarot readers, beauty and well-being and food and produce stalls. In the courtyard you will find mobile food and refreshment vendors, so breakfast and lunch are sorted. Admission is £3, from which a percentage will be donated to the supported charity at this event, the Martha Trust. There is no charge for under 16-year olds and to entertain them, completely free of charge, there is Scott with his Circus Workshop, Gary entertaining with Balloon Modelling and Lisa with Face Painting. While you enjoy all this event has to offer, you will be entertained by professional singers, Paolo Coruzzi and Vintage Ruby. There is a large free car park and entry is from 10am to 4pm so come along and have a family fun day out. For more information visit www.caranoevents. co.uk.

Live music ★ Food stalls Body & nail art ★ Balloon modelling Psychic mediums ★ Face painting

In aid of The Lord Whisky Sanctuary Fund

Whatever the Weather!

try the Animal Adventure Challenge and conquer the climbing walls, bird nest swings and wobbly rope bridges.

Registered Charity: 283483

Fur, Feather and Exotic Exhibition 24 February - 10am-4pm Boughton-under Blean Village Hall, Bull Lane, ME13 9AH Lots of different animals including chinchillas, ferrets, chickens, rabbits, birds of prey and more! Feed the sock lambs. Small animal pet show (no cats or dogs), to be judged at 3pm Information & craft stalls - Refreshments - Admission by donation - new animal exhibitors welcome Animal-related stalls £10, ring to book. Park House Animal Sanctuary Stelling Minnis, Kent, CT4 6AN

www.lordwhisky.co.uk • 01303 862622

B dis ook co on un lin te d t e fo ick r et s

Half Term Explorers 10th to 18th February Become a junior explorer in the grounds of Leeds Castle. Follow an exciting, fun-packed activity booklet to solve clues and spot different birds and trees as you adventure through the estate. Complete your journey to be rewarded with a chocolate prize. This event is included in the price of admission.

leeds-castle.com

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

the world. Pastorally the school is organised into four Colleges and the students know that they can always find a friendly face, a helping hand and extra guidance whenever they need it. The Colleges also ensure that the students remember to respect boundaries! A “one size fits all” approach does not work in education and Sandwich Technology School adopts an inclusive yet fully differentiated methodology. There is a firm belief that anything is possible and every effort is made to ensure that the students believe it too. The school is popular and over-subscribed for good reason and is definitely worth exploring when options for secondary education are considered. Our picture shows Evie Eggleston receiving certificates and awards from Kevin Charles, who was guest speaker at their 2017 Celebration of Achievement (Evie was Head Girl in 2016/2017 and is now studying Criminology at Southampton Solent University). For more information visit www.sandwich-tech.kent.sch.uk, email admin@sandwich-tech.kent.sch.uk or call 01304 610 000.

Education News

Educational Scholarships Now Available

As Spring Grove School celebrates its 50th birthday it is delighted to now be able to offer scholarships to the children of Kent. The School is keen to be able to provide an opportunity for Year 3 and Year 4 pupils of good academic, musical, dramatic, artistic and sporting ability to attend the school. The scholarship awards, of 10% to 20% of full fees, will be awarded to a limited number of Year 3 and Year 4 entry pupils wishing to join Spring Grove School in September 2018 from external schools. Scholarships will also be available to current Spring Grove School pupils in the respective year groups. The ‘SG50 Awards’ will last until the pupils reach the end of Year 6, and leave Spring Grove to move on to the secondary schools of their choice. Mr Bill Jones, Spring Grove School’s Headmaster, told Primary Times, “I am extremely grateful to the Governors and SG50 Committee for their generosity, their faith in the school and their support of these scholarship awards that will enable young people to benefit from and have access to the wide range of opportunities available at Spring Grove School. On our anniversary we wish to give something back to our community, to leave a legacy and to enable young people to enjoy an outstanding rounded education similar to the one which we have provided for 50 years.” Further details, including terms and conditions, can be obtained from Mr Chris Townend, Spring Grove School’s Head of Marketing & Admissions, on 01233 812 337 or by emailing joinus@springgroveschool.co.uk

Exploration and Discovery

Get creative and enter the British Science Association’s annual poster competition, which challenges children from nursery to Year 9 to create posters on this year’s theme of exploration and discovery. Your students can make their poster about anything around the theme, from space travel and futuristic advances to iconic discoveries in science. The five best posters from your school can be entered into the UK-wide competition with the chance for students to win an array of prizes. Entrants will be judged within four age categories: Early Years (nursery and reception), Infant (Years 1-3), Junior (Years 4-6) and Senior (Years 7 to 9). Entries from youth groups and other organisations are also welcome in addition to schools.

Sandwich Technology School

In 2017 Sandwich Technology School celebrated a record-breaking year of examination results. The school’s GCSE headline figure jumped massively, which was a spectacular achievement in a year when, nationally, GCSE results went down. This improvement followed a drive by the Headteacher, Mrs Tracey Savage, to reinforce core values and concentrate on the basics: good teaching, high quality homework and encouraging the students to work hard and take responsibility for their own learning. The school is fully staffed with highly-qualified professionals, who support students to achieve well academically and to become confident individuals ready to face

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

SG50: Celebrating Spring Grove School’s 50th Anniversary

Education News

Entrants can be teams or individuals; however each school/youth group can only enter up to a maximum of five entries. Entries must be 2D and submitted on one side of A4 or A3 paper only. Posters must include the entrant’s name (all names if a team) and age (all ages if a team), age category (of the oldest team member) as well as the school/youth group name and address. Once your students have completed their posters, check the competition details online at www.britishscienceweek.org before sending your top five entries to: Discovery and Exploration Poster Competition, British Science Association, Wellcome Wolfson Building, 165 Queen’s Gate, London, SW7 5HD. The competition closes on Friday 6 April at 6pm.

St Edmund’s School Canterbury

St Edmund’s School Canterbury is a distinctive and historic independent school for boys and girls aged 3–18 that provides a lively, challenging education in a nurturing environment. Academic standards are set high and the school is renowned for its excellence in Music, Drama and Art as well as its sporting success in cricket, tennis, hockey and football. The current Head of the Junior School, Ed O’Connor, told Primary Times, “We have a very strong family ethos and work hard to help and encourage our pupils in a caring, positive learning environment. Our nurturing approach is underpinned by dedicated and committed teaching, small class sizes, close links with our parent community and a clear focus on first rate pastoral care. To this end, we seek to understand our pupils as individuals and support them closely throughout their learning journey. As a parent whose children have flourished at St Edmund’s, I know how transformative the experience here can be.” To find out more about a St Edmund’s education, families are encouraged to book a personal visit or attend an Open Morning where they can meet staff and pupils. Their next Open Morning is on Wednesday 7 March. For more information, call 01227 475 601 or visit, www.stedmunds.org.uk

Discover

The Junior School

at Dover College

Independent Day School for boys and girls aged from 3 to 11 Book your place at our Open Morning on 24 March 2018 email: jsadmissions @dovercollege.org.uk

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

What’s On

More What’s On

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I saw your event in Your family diary for February and March Primary Times.... Please mention you Half Term Hot Air Balloon Trail, saw the event listed in Emmetts Garden, Sevenoaks, Primary Times TN14 6BA Spring Half Term Fun, The Hop

February

10am-4pm. A full week of fun to include indoor entertainment, magic shows, indoor inflatable extravaganza, discos, best-dressed prize draws, animal farm, driving school and more. Charges apply. For information visit www.thehopfarm.co.uk

10am-4pm. Discover the story of the inventor of Emmetts’ water pump on a brand new trail inspired by his other invention – the hot air balloon. Pick up a map and follow the paths around the garden. Charges apply. For more information visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/emmetts-garden

Snow Drop Walk, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Half Term Fun, Howletts Animal Park, Bekesbourne Nr Canterbury, CT4 5AE

Farm, Tonbridge, TN12 6PY

A heavenly carpet of snowdrops will provide a magical trail for visitors to follow. Around seventy thousand snowdrop bulbs have been planted in the gardens over the past few years. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www.hevercastle. co.uk

Go along and fall in love with the snow leopards and help raise funds for the protection of these wild animals by taking part in a raffle. Plus see how many new arrivals

Half Term Fun, Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, Nr Hythe, CT21 4PD Go along and try to find the golden gorilla in his hiding place and take part in the competition. Also venture into the exciting Dinosaur Forest if you dare. Wander the trails and spot new arrivals to the reserve. For more information and visit www. aspinallfoundation.org/portlympne

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

Pirates Magnified

Aarrrhh! ‘Tis time, ye grabbed your magnifyin’ glass and started scourin’ them pages for hidden treasures! Set sail on a swashbuckling searchand-find adventure that lets you see history up close and personal. Children can use their own die-cut magnifying glass to scan each scene for hidden treasures, characters and secrets. With 10 unique things to spot on each spread, children will uncover the lives of 10 of history’s most notorious pirates and learn what life was really like on the high seas. Learn about navigation, sea-faring and life above (and below) deck. Complete with three magnifying glasses, Pirates Magnified includes over 200 things to spot with added search-and-find activities, answers and more at the back of the book. Written by critically acclaimed author David Long, winner of the 2017 Blue Peter Book Award, this fantastic resource is alive with fun facts, stories and pirate trivia – more than enough to inform and entertain the youngest landlubber for hours on end. Traverse the globe on your own pirate adventure and try and remember on which page you saw each of the items listed in the back of the book. Afterwards, readers both young and old can learn to talk like a real pirate using a comprehensive glossary of fun pirate terms. What are you waiting for, you crusty ol’ seadog? Hoist the mainsail and set sail for the journey of a lifetime with Pirates Magnified, available online and from all good high street retailers for £14.99. 12

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you can spot. Test your skills on the Tree Top Challenge and more. For more information visit www. aspinallfoundation.org/howletts

Sat 10 – Sun 25 Feb

Secret Lab: Light Fantastic, Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4 4TE With Doc away grab a lab coat, it’s time to be Doc yourself and learn, with Bunsen, all things lights. Listen to Doc’s instructions and pick up your lab coat before entering the Secret Lab … don’t forget your goggles too. For more information visit www. thedockyard.co.uk

February Half Term, Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 8JN Meet the artists who have been inspired by Scotney on a new trail. Get creative afterwards and try some art for yourself.You can also join our rangers on an interactive estate walk and have a go at hedge planting. Charges apply. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ scotney-castle

Sun 11 Feb

Create a Moonlit Snow Scene, Samphire Hoe Shelter, Folkestone, CT17 9FL 11am.You shall create a magical snow scene to shine in the dark. A suggested donation of £5 per person towards materials appreciated. For more information and to book visit call 01304 225 649.

Mon 12 Feb

Fairtrade Baking, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR 10am–1pm. Go along and enjoy making organic cow cookies and chocolate banana muffins. Experience the organic dairy farm with an informative guided tour. Ages 9+. For more information and to book visit www.boreplace.org

improved geocaching courses a try. For more information and to book visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk

Family Monday: Wild Art, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm. Go along and make your own bookmark or clay leaf dish inspired by Knole Park. Ages 5-11. Booking essential. For more information and to book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole

Closing The Loop Children’s Workshops, The Horsebridge Arts Centre, Whitstable, CT5 1AF 10-4pm. Paper making workshop for age 6 and under and jewellery upcycling workshop for age 7 and over. Turn old jewellery and beans into a new piece of special jewellery. To book visit www.horsebridgecentre.org.uk

Mon 12 – Fri 16 Feb

The Fairy Tale Castle, Dover Castle, CT16 1HU 10am–3pm. Step into the castle’s real fairy tales with storytelling brought to life in spellbinding adventures. Journey into our realm where fairy tales and England’s past collide. For more information visit www.englishheritage.org.uk

Holiday Heroes, Swallows Leisure Centre, Sittingbourne, ME10 4NT Go along for some Half Term holiday fun. A different activity for each day of the week, to include tennis (Mon/ Thurs), tag rugby (Tues), football (Wed), aqua challenge (Tues/ Fri) and a sports day (Fri). For more information and to book visit www. swaleleisure.com

Holiday Heroes, Maidstone Leisure Centre, ME15 7RN Go along for a week of fun with a range of activities to keep the children entertained throughout Half Term. For more information and to book visit www.maidstoneleisure. com

Children’s Holiday Activities, White Oak Leisure Centre, Swanley, BR8 7BT Enjoy pool activities, taster sessions, swimming courses and activities for under 5s during Half Term week. Also happening at Edenbridge and Sevenoaks Leisure Centres. For more information and to book visit www. sencio.org.uk

Mon 12 – Sun 18 Feb

Wild Adventures Week, Groombridge Place, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9QG 10am-4pm. Go along this February Half Term to Groombridge Place there will be lots to see and do, There will have den building, wildlife crafts, build your own bug hotel and pot your own plant to take home. For more information and to book visit www.groombridgeplace.com

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 14...

Win an Annual Pass to Leeds Castle

Imagine being able to visit Leeds Castle as many times as you want in a year, discovering something new and exciting about the historic attraction each time. You could do just that if you enter this exciting new competition to win a family annual pass. Discover almost 900 years of history and explore 500 acres of beautiful parkland and gardens. The whole family will enjoy the maze and hidden grotto, punting on the moat, adventure playgrounds and more. The Bird of Prey Centre, located behind the Maze, is open on a daily basis and houses 30 birds of prey from a British Kestrel to Laughing Kookaburras from Australia. With all this and plenty more, a packed programme of special events awaits you throughout 2018 at Leeds Castle. To be in with the chance of winning an annual pass to Leeds Castle, simply tell us which Australian birds live in Leeds Castle’s Bird of Prey centre? See below for entry details.

Win Signed Sets of Ross Welford’s Books

Perfect for readers aged 9-11, Ross Welford’s series of exciting and hilarious children’s books will leave kids hooked. Win one of five signed sets of his children’s books and be captivated by the exciting and surprising worlds he has created. With entertaining titles including Time Travelling with a Hamster, which follows a 12 year old on a race through time, and What Not to Do if You Turn Invisible, Ross’s latest novel will be as unusual, funny and full of heart as ever. The 1000 Year Old Boy tells the story of a 1000 year old, nearly teenage boy, who embarks on a mission to find friendship, acceptance and a different way to live in the modern world. To be in with the chance of winning a signed set of Ross Welford’s books, simply tell us what animal the main character travels with in Welford’s first book? See below for entry details.

Win a PS4 with Tad the Lost Explorer After Sara Lavroff discovers one of the three gold rings from King Midas’ necklace, proving that this ruler who turned everything he touched into gold really did exist, Tad travels to Las Vegas to join his friend at the exhibition where this incredible archaeological discovery will be revealed for the first time ever. © 2018 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved. Cert U. #Tad

Primary Times has one PS4 Slimline 500GB to give away to one lucky reader. To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is complete the word search. Then fill out the form with your details and send it to the address at the foot of the page. R E R O L P X E E H K J C V A B A R R T Q U T R B R U R B G C X R V A T A D E O Z O M S N V Y F D L T L R E D T L G D D C X V K

D N A P W

B D T R T L E W E J A D S F S A D

Midas

•

Explorer

Gold Tad

• Kidnap • Sara

Bandits Parrot

• Jewel

• Adventure

I M K

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 competion name as the subject by Friday 2 March. If you are entering more than one competition you can put all entries in the same envelope. Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Competitions

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March

February Mon 12 – Mon 26 Feb Have Breakfast for Heart of Kent Hospice, Various Locations

You are invited, the local community, to organise a breakfast to raise money for Heart of Kent Hospice. By hosting a breakfast you can catch up with family, friends, colleagues or your social or school group. For more information visit www.hokh.org or email breakfast@hokh.co.uk

Tues 13 Feb

Design your own Robot, Chatham Library, Community Hub Chatham, ME4 4TX 2.30-3.30pm. Craft activity and storytime for 4-10 yrs. Booking is essential for this free event. For more information visit www. enjoymedway.org/events

Mr Muddles Magician, Maidstone Leisure Centre, ME15 7RN Don’t miss out on the magic shows and balloon modelling. For more information visit www. maidstoneleisure.com

Pancake Day Fun & Games, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR Make and eat delicious cinnamon swirl pancakes and healthy seasonal Swiss chard pancakes. Learn the art of tossing a pancake (without dropping it on the floor) and join in a pancake race at the end of the workshop. Ages 7+. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www.boreplace.org

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

”

Green Gang: Den Building, Elms Vale Recreation Ground Car Park, Dover, CT17 9NN 12noon. Build a shelter largely of natural materials at the base of Whinless Down. Learn how to find fuel, and build and light a small campfire. Suggested donation of £5 per person appreciated. For more information and to book call 01304 241 806.

Dragons At The Ready, Royal Engineeprs Museum, Gillingham, ME4 4UG

Tues 13 – Thurs 15 Feb

10.30am and 1.30pm. Chinese dragons traditionally symbolise power, strength, and good luck. The Emperor of China presented Gordon with a beautiful blue silk jacket. Get creative and decorate your own jacket-shaped trinket box, using metallic pens and stickers. For more information visit www.re-museum. co.uk

11am–3pm. Explore the Cathedral’s gargoyles and grotesques, then get creative and make your own – will it be a big cat with claws, a green man – or even a mermaid? Free activities, normal Precincts charges apply. For more information visit www. canterbury-cathedral.org

Make & Take Workshop, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA 10am and 2pm. Go along and paint a ceramic bird drinker. Charges apply. To book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

I Love Robots, Strood Library, Community Hub Strood, ME2 4TJ 2-3pm. Craft activity and storytime for 4-10 yrs. Booking is essential for this free event. For more information visit www.enjoymedway.org/events

Half Term Fun, Canterbury Cathedral, CT1 2EH

Really Wild Wooders MiniSurvival Days, Betteshanger Country Park, Deal, CT14 0BF Learn new and exciting survival and bushcraft skills, ranging from fire lighting to animal tracking.You’ll also face lots of different challenges where you’ll have to use logic and tactics to get through. For more information and to book visit www. betteshanger-park.co.uk

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 18...

Painting Pebbles

Painting is a great activity that you can do with the kids – fun, creative and suitable for the whole family. It’s also great to do when you’re stuck indoors on a rainy day. Or you can incorporate this fun activity with a nature walk, and have something to keep as a souvenir at the end of it. On your next walk, take a bucket with you and get children to pick their favourite pebbles as they go – the quirkier the better! Children love the idea of a scavenger hunt, and this way they can make mini masterpieces out of what they find. Once you have your pebbles and are back home, you will need poster or acrylic paint, some paintbrushes, a glass of water, a colour mixing dish and some clear nail varnish. Alternatively you can buy a Stone Painting Kit from www.onbuy.com for just £6.49. To make your pebble picture: 1. Put on your painting apron and lay newspaper on the table so as not to get paint anywhere. 2. Choose where your pebble is going to go or what it is going to be used for – you could make them as gifts with people’s names on. 3. Design the stone.You could do this on paper first so when you get painting you know exactly what you are going to do. 4. Paint the stone with your design. For detailed designs, artists can do several layers of painting, allowing each one to dry before adding the next. Don’t forget to sign your artwork at the end. 5. Allow the paint to dry and then cover it with a layer of clear nail varnish. This will protect your design and give it a shiny finish. 6. Once the stone is dry, it is ready to be used. Painted pebbles can be used for all sorts of different things. Pebbles with nature designs are great for brightening up the garden, or personalised ones can be given as creative gifts and party favours.You could even glue a magnet to the back of the pebble and make it into a fridge magnet. Just make sure the pebble is light! For more practical uses, larger pebbles make great paperweights and tiny pebbles can be made into unusual jewellery. The latest craze sweeping the nation is artists leaving painted pebbles with encouraging messages on in their local areas. Members of the public can find the pebbles and re-hide them, ready for someone else to enjoy. Get children in touch with nature as well as their creative side with the new painting craze sweeping the nation. 14

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G F R E E Z I N G P

N F H G L O V E O M

I C B D B D X M S R

T I L E K O P P N O

A T I L C O L D O T

K C Z S M W S D W S

S R Z H R E T N I W

E A A Q F R A C S O

C T R C R I J K C N

What did Frosty call his cow? Eskimoo!

What do you call an old snowman? Water!

Copy the Picture and Colour it in

I V D G O F T G L S

Can you find the following words in the word search Winter, Cold, Freezing, Snow, PomPomHat, Glove, Scarf, Fog, Blizzard, Sledge, Iceskating, Arctic, Snowstorm, Firewood

Answers

Winter Word Search

Spot the Differences

lown’s Winter Warmer

In picture B, the first hat and scarf set has two ends to the scarf, the 4th hat along has some eyes, the 5th scarf has lost its ends, the first hat in the second row has a pompom, the 2nd hat sets gloves have been flipped, the 4th hat has been changed to red. On the 3rd row the second hat includes sun glasses, the final hat has lost its pompom.

Katie

What do you get if you cross a snowman and a shark? Frost Bite!

Spot the Eight Differences

What is a snowman’s favourite drink? Ice Tea!

Draw a picture of anything to do with Winter. 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 Closing date: 2 March 2018. Good Luck! Follow us on Twitter - @PT_Kent

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Family Travel Ideas Top Trails for 2018 From Ranch Rider

With over 80 years combined experience in the saddle, the Ranch Rider team has its hoof to the ground when it comes to the best riding holidays in the USA. So, where to hit the trail in 2018? From new cultural cowgirl getaways to award winning horseback safaris, the specialist has rounded up the latest news and a list of the best equine escapes for the year ahead. Arizona made Lonely Planet’s top ten list of best value destinations for 2018 and with seven nights at Tucson’s White Stallion priced from only £1,135pp (two sharing) and from £925pp (4 to 11 years), riding holidays at the guest ranch will be a steal for families travelling over the main summer holidays. While temperatures can soar into the late 30s during July and August, the ranch boasts an outdoor pool complete with spectacular mountain views and plenty of shady spots where you can escape the heat. Families are welcome on the ranch’s guided Petroglyph Hike through Saguaro National Park where they can learn about ancient forms of communication and the Hohokam Indians, who inhabited the area from 250 through 1450 A.D. Seven night ranch stays include accommodation, meals, most ranch activities, taxes, transfers and gratuities. Excludes return flight from £879pp. Find out more at www.ranchrider.com.

See Spain in Cherry Blossom Season

If you visit the Valle del Jerte in Extremadura in South West Spain in late March, you will see over one million cherry trees in blossom covering the mountainsides in swathes of white.Trujillo Villas Espana, with five restored villas in the Medieval town of Trujillo, is introducing new cherry experiences for their guests to see this local phenomenon, pick cherries and experience this beautiful time of year in the picturesque surroundings of Southern Spain. Trujillo Villas Espana is offering guests a private guided drive through the valley with time out to walk along the trails that wind between the cherry trees and villages and take in the beauty of the landscape.The tours will include views of the cherry blossom in the spring and cherry picking later on in the season, when guests can pick cherries straight from the trees in the traditional way and take home a 2kg box per person. Trujillo is a medieval walled hilltop town overlooking the plains of Extremadura, still relatively untouched by modernity and tourism. Stay in the unique Villa Piedras Albas, a restored palace on Trujillo’s main square, built in 1530.The villa has characterful interiors, grand stonework and finely carved beamed ceilings. A Florentine arched loggia overlooks the square, ideal for al fresco dining and there is also a private walled garden with lemon trees and a swimming pool. For prices and availability, head to www.trujillovillasespana.com.

Children’s Travel Book of the Year As part of the annual Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards, six books have been shortlisted to compete for Children’s Travel Book of the Year. From a thoughtprovoking exploration of what it means to be part of planet Earth to a collection of animal tales perfect for a bedtime story, these books will inspire young adventurers. The shortlist includes multi-award-winning authors such as Oliver Jeffers with his #1 New York Times Bestseller and #1 TIME Best Book of the Year for 2017, Here We Are, described as ‘An optimistic snapshot of contemporary life, this heartfelt hug of a book ought to become a classic’ by The Guardian. Your kids will love getting stuck into these adventurous tales, including Katherine Rundell’s The Explorer, about

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

children fulfilling their dreams of becoming worldrenowned explorers in the Amazon rainforest and The Picture Atlas by Simon Holland, which shows children a colourful natural world to discover. Kids will marvel at the physical planet with The Earth Book by Jonathan Litton, be captivated by classic tales featuring creatures big and small in A World Full of Animal Stories by Angela McAllister and follow a mystical guide to the night sky with What We See in the Stars by Kelsey Oseid. The winner of the Children’s Travel Book of the Year, as well as a number of other categories, will be announced at a ceremony in February. Have a look at the shortlists online at www.edwardstanfordawards.com.

Experience the Joy of Being a Toy

Everyone is invited to join the heroes of Toy Story in an all-new land filled with larger-than-life adventures. This summer, Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida will introduce the newest addition to Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Toy Story Land, a whimsical place located in the larger-than-life setting of Andy’s backyard. This is your chance to discover what it’s like to be a toy with all-new attractions, quick-and-easy dining options and so much more. Amid a colourful landscape filled with giant building blocks and game board pieces, you’ll be immersed in an experience straight out of Andy’s vivid imagination—together with Woody, Buzz, Slinky Dog, Rex, the Aliens and many other beloved Toy Story Characters. Slinky Dog is ready to take you for a wild ride on a crazy coaster— one that gives you a glimpse of all that Toy Story Land has to offer. Come along as Slinky Dog bends and twists his coils around curves, hills, bridges and drops. Hang on tight as your toy rocket ride takes off on a dizzying adventure through space with the Alien Swirling Saucers – if you’re really lucky, you might just get “chosen” by the claw. Andy is away and it’s time to play at one of the most popular attractions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Toy Story Mania. Head inside and slip under Andy’s bed where the toys have set up their carnival playset. Then, blast your way through targets, using everything from baseballs to cream pies. Make sure you practice your aim because high-score bragging rights are on the line. Get ready to shrink down and join your Toy Story friends for some fun that never ends, only at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. For more information, visit www.disneyworld.disney.go.com

Give-Back on Your Travels in 2018

Award winning ethical luxury family travel specialist Hands Up Holidays has trips for families to travel and give back and help those less fortunate.All trips are 100% tailor-made to enable travellers to create their ideal ethical luxury family trip that changes lives, not just their own. Incorporating an element of ‘giving back’ to a luxury family trip is a powerful way to bring families together, and also for children to appreciate how fortunate they are and get immersed in another culture in a safe context.When this is combined with fantastic activities and relaxation, it makes for a memorable and meaningful way to fulfil your resolutions for 2018. Hands Up Holidays offers trips in 40 countries around the world, combining luxury family travel with an emphasis on sustainability and helping those less fortunate. Help conserve sea turtles and elephants in Sri Lanka, serve meals to refugees in Rome or help build a home for a needy family in Zimbabwe. Help young people with afterschool homework during an action-packed holiday in St Lucia, assist at a riding centre for the disabled in Texas while exploring the USA or get up close to the impressive wildlife in Costa Rica at a rescue centre for injured, orphaned or illegally traded animals. All of these trips are suitable for families, and can be tailor-made to suit your preferences, such as length of trip, activity, and accommodation. Start planning your sustainable family holiday at www.handsupholidays.com.

From Paddington to Peru

Peru will be firmly in the spotlight this year for family holidays following the hugely successful film release of Paddington 2 and with the 60th anniversary of the publication of Michael Bond’s first Paddington Bear book coming up in October, there’s no place better to celebrate than in Paddington’s original home. To mark the occasion, Journey Latin America has launched an adventurous 14-day From Paddington to Peru family holiday offering holidaymakers the unique opportunity to meet and learn about the endangered spectacled bears in their own environment. The enchanting, loveable bear from ‘darkest Peru’ who ended up in Paddington Station may not know much about his native land, but would no doubt enjoy this holiday which is ideal for all the family. Offering the chance to see real live Peruvian spectacled bears in their own natural environment, the holiday also explores magnificent Inca ruins with a backdrop of snow-spangled Andean peaks in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and at Machu Picchu, further downstream, where the Urubamba river crashes towards the Amazon basin. Much like the eponymous Paddington, this family holiday is quirky and fun. With a mixture of unusual wildlife and classic highlights, it’s a great holiday for children and for parents who are looking for something a bit different. Prices start from £3,807 per person for a two week trip excluding international flights. Plan your trip today at www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk. Photo credit: Journey Latin America

Best Luxury Family Beach Resort in the World

The multiple award-winning resort, and pioneer of tourism in the Maldives, Kurumba Maldives, has been recognised as 2017’s Best Luxury Family Beach Resort in the World by the World Luxury Hotel Awards. With a variety of entertainment, facilities, activities and social events, there is plenty on offer for families at the resort. Set on a tropical island in the North Malé Atoll, Kurumba Maldives is conveniently situated a brief 10 minute speed boat ride from the airport. Dotted with coconut trees that are the island’s namesake, Kurumba was the first private island resort in the Maldives, opening its doors in 1972. Beautiful gardens, palm fringed white sandy beaches and a vibrant house reef are the hallmarks of this classic Maldivian resort. The resort offers an array of eight styles of accommodation, ranging from comfortable Superior rooms to the spacious Royal Residence, spread amongst the island’s lush tropical gardens with easy access to the beach. With eight different restaurants to choose from, Kurumba Maldives will charm you with its unparalleled choice of dining experience and a wide range of recreation activities and entertainment. All while maintaining idyllic refuges and quiet spaces for relaxation activities. Plan your luxury family beach vacation today by heading to www.kurumba. com. 29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March

February Explorers Backpacks, Canterbury Cathedral, CT1 2EH 11am–4pm. A fun and interactive trail as well as helpful tools for all to enjoy. Inside the backpacks are binoculars, magnifying glasses and magnetic compasses – all to help young explorers investigate places and objects within the Cathedral. Usual Precincts charges apply. For more information visit www. canterbury-cathedral.org

Tues 13 – Fri 16 Feb

Half Term Activities, Maidstone Museum, ME14 1LH Enjoy a week of fun-filled creative workshops with an animal theme to keep the children entertained, including design an animal-inspired t-shirt or make your own pop-up animal puppet. Ages 4-11. Charges apply. For session times and more information visit www.museum. maidstone.gov.uk

Wed 14 Feb

‘Love Bugs’, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR 10am–1pm. Children will make jammy love heart cookies and create a super-cute ‘love bug’ from recycled materials before heading outside to meet our herd of organic dairy cows. Ages 3-6. Charges apply. For more information and to book visit www. boreplace.org

Make & Take Workshop, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA 10am and 2pm. Go along and make and paint a wooden bird feeder. To book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Chinese Patterns and Prints, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME4 4UG 10.30am-1pm and 1.30-3.30pm. On display in the Museum are a collection of beautiful Chinese silks. Using inspiration from their patterns and prints, turn a fabric shoulder bag into a work of art. A drop in session. For more information visit www. re-museum.co.uk

Flame the Dragon, Maidstone Leisure Centre, ME15 7RN Go along to meet and greet Flame the Dragon. Can you tame the flame? For more information visit www. maidstoneleisure.com

Protection from the Elements, Betteshanger Country Park, Deal, CT14 0BF Learn how to construct a campfire and how to maintain it.You’ll light a fire using a flint and steel plus you’ll make and cook tasty campfire snacks. For more information and to book visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk

The Friends’ Valentine Ball, Little Hermitage, Higham, ME3 7NU Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a 3 course meal (set menu), and live entertainment from the Abigail Cardwell and Chris Kennedy Jazz Band. Plus lots of added fundraising magic throughout the evening. For more information and to book visit www.fowh.org.uk

Cycle Club, Betteshanger Country Park, Deal, CT14 0BF A combination of road/mountain bike trails within the park as well skills training and games, all led by a British Cycling qualified coach. All participants will receive a certificate of completion. Advance booking required. For more information and to book visit www.betteshanger-park. co.uk

Winter Bird Walk, RSPB Dungeness Nature Reserve, TN29 9PN 10.30am-12.30pm. Winter is a great time to see the thousands of ducks and geese that visit us during this time. Look out for Goldeneye, Shoveler, Wigeon and Teal and you might be lucky enough to find the beautiful Smew. For more information and to book visit www. rspb.org.uk

Wed 14 – Thurs 15 Feb Family Weaving Workshop, Huguenot Museum, Rochester, ME1 1LX

Join Ann Bowdler for a fun interactive workshop exploring a whole range of weaving techniques. This is a drop in session. Small charge applies. For more information and to book visit www.huguenotmuseum.org

Family Workshop: Create a Colourful Birdhouse, Knole, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP 10.30am and 1pm. Assemble your own wooden birdhouse and decorate it with colourful paints. Create a

Recycling Workshop, Kent Wildlife Trust, Romney Marsh Visitor Centre, TN28 8AY 11am–12 noon. Have fun turning recycled plastic materials such as bottles, cartons and bags into your own unique animal or sea creature. All materials supplied. Ages 5+. For more information and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

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mossy nest inside for a bird to use in your garden. Charges apply. Booking essential. For information and to book visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ knole

Wed 14 – Fri 16 Feb

Children’s Half Term Workshops, Pick ‘n Paint a Pot, Cliftonville, CT9 2RL 10.30am–12noon. Each day there will be a different workshop of pottery painting for your children to enjoy. Booking is advisable. Charges apply. For more information visit www. picknpaintapot.co.uk

Thurs 15 Feb

Fish and Chip Lunch Special, Spa Valley Railway, Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5QY 11.45am departure. Why not treat yourself and the kids to a fish and chip lunch and dessert as you travel by heritage steam train through the beautiful Kent and Sussex countryside. Charges apply. Booking essential. For more information and to book visit www.spavalleyrailway. co.uk

Wonderful Wintery Woods, White Horse Wood, Maidstone, ME14 3JE 1 - 3.30pm. Get wrapped up and learn all about trees in winter with fun twig crafts, games and storytelling for family fun. For more information call 03000 422 997 or email medwayvalley@kent.gov.uk

Face Painting, Maidstone Leisure Centre, ME15 7RN Get into a fun and colourful mood with some spectacular face painting. For more information visit www. maidstoneleisure.com

Woof Woof Year Of The Dog, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME4 4UG

Wiggly Wild Show, Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and Jeffery Harrison Visitor Centre, TN13 3DH 11am and 12.30pm. An entertaining show by a qualified ranger about unusual live exotic animals such as stick insects, beetles and giant millipedes, with some crazy props for brave volunteers! Plus there will be a handling session. For more information and to book visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Make & Take Workshop, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA 10am and 2pm. Go along and make and paint a bird house. Charges apply. To book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Thurs 15 – Sun 18 Feb

Family Wild Arts Event, West Blean & Thornden Woods, CT6 7NZ 10.30am-2.30pm. Go along and do some drawing, painting and create environmental art sculptures out of natural materials. Suitable for adults and supervised, accompanied children. Meet in car park, New Road, Thornden Wood Road. For more information visit www. kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Fri 16 Feb

Family Roller Disco, Maidstone Leisure Centre, ME15 7RN Go along for roller skating fun with music, disco lights and all the fun of the roller rink. No booking required. Suitable for all ages, participants must be able to skate. For times and for more information visit www. maidstoneleisure.com

Nick Sharratt’s Big DrawAlong, Woodville Studio Theatre, Gravesend, DA12 1DD 2pm. Join this much-loved children’s writer and illustrator in a fun filled draw-along for all ages. He’ll be showing you how he creates characters like Tracy Beaker and Timothy Pope, sharing ways to invent your own crazy creatures and more. For more information and to book visit woodville.seatlive.com

Wiggly Wild Show, Tyland Barn, Maidstone, ME14 3BD

10.30am–1pm and 1.30-3.30pm. Drop in and make a non-sew sock dog to use as a companion. Ages 3+. Charges apply. For more information visit www.re-museum.co.uk

1pm and 2pm. An entertaining show by a qualified ranger about unusual live exotic animals such as stick insects, beetles and giant millipedes. Plus there will be handling session at the end. For more information and to book visit www.kentwildlifetrust. org.uk

Fire Lighting and Campfire Cooking, Betteshanger Country Park, Deal, CT14 0BF

Sky Birds of Prey, Millbrook Garden Centre, Gravesend, DA13 9PA

Learn how to construct a campfire and how to maintain it.You’ll light a fire using a flint and steel plus you’ll make and cook tasty campfire snacks. Bring a packed lunch. Ages 8+. For more information and to book visit www.betteshanger-park.co.uk

10am, 11.15am, 12.30pm and 2pm. Go along to meet and greet with a selection of birds, talk and craft. To book visit www.millbrookgc.co.uk

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

An Interview with Lisa Thompson Lisa Thompson, author of The Goldﬁsh Boy, has just released her second book, The Light Jar. A story of fear and hope, loneliness and friendship – the Light Jar is full of heart, engaging characters and propulsive mystery. Nate and his mother are running away, hiding out in a tumbledown cottage in the middle of a forest. When Mum heads off for provisions and then doesn’t return, Nate is left alone and afraid. But comfort can come from the most unexpected places – a mysterious girl trying to solve the clues of a treasure hunt and the reappearance of an old friend from the past. The Light Jar is a brilliant mix of page-turning tension and heart-warming relationships leaving you beaming as you’re reading. Rachel Benson from Primary Times spoke to Lisa just after the book’s release.

When writing The Light Jar, what message did you want to leave your readers with? I think that you can ﬁnd hope in the most unexpected of places, and not to be too judgemental of people.You may not know what has happened in the past and Nate judges people when he doesn’t know what’s going on in their lives.

Which characters do you most relate to and why? There’s a little bit of me in everyone. Nate’s freaky facts book was very much my kind of thing. I used to love all of those weird books and I would bore my parents to tears with them! I suppose I’m more like Nate and his Mum in trying to make the best of things, I’m quite good at that. In a bad situation I like to look on the bright side. Nate doesn’t always do that, but he does cope in his own way and I think I’d be the same.

The Light Jar is available online and from all good high street retailers for £6.99. For more information visit, lisathompsonauthor.com.

Your book ‘The Goldfish Boy’ is also available as an audiobook. Will The Light Jar be available in this format too? I don’t know! I love the radio, and listening to podcasts. There are so many books I want to read and no time to do it, and I think with audiobooks it’s the power of your ears that make it so special. Listening is like reading a book, you create the pictures in your mind. I don’t think we realise the power of the medium.

What inspires you when writing your books? I ﬁnd music really inspiring to listen to when writing. I never used to because I thought you shouldn’t, but I remember reading that Stephen King listens to loud rock music when he writes, and then I read about more and more authors who listen to music so they can zone out of the world. The Light Jar came about from a tweet I read. Somebody tweeted ‘There are no ghosts, just imaginary friends who have been abandoned’. It made me wonder what happened to imaginary friends when they’re not needed anymore and it spiralled from there. A couple of lines can be enough to push you to write a full length novel.

Was there a particular soundtrack you listened to when writing The Light Jar? There were two songs that I listened to all the time. One was the main theme from The Revenant, it’s a really haunting theme. I listened to that a lot in the really bleak parts of the book, and Mr Blue Sky was for the uplifting parts. It’s even referenced in one of the scenes.

Have you got any advice for any young, budding writers? I found that writing was a way to live out a dream. Try short stories. The Goldfish Boy came from one so you never know where they’re going to lead. Write something that you want to read, don’t try and write to fit a formula. That way you may find it easier to do.

What is next for you? I’m writing book three now, which is hopefully out this time next year… if I ﬁnish it in time!

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March

February Closing The Loop Children’s Workshops, The Horsebridge Arts Centre, Whitstable, CT5 1AF 10am–4pm. Create a printed piece of art work using repurposed materials for age 6 and under, and screen printing for age 7 and over. Give an old item of clothing new life. To book tickets visit www.horsebridge-centre. org.uk

Fri 16 – Sun 18 Feb

Geek Game Players, Dreamland, Margate, CT9 1XJ 10am-3pm. A three day festival of play and gaming arrives at Dreamland for Half Term family fun. Meet, make and play together undercover at Geek with multiplayer and interactive gaming. Charges apply. To book and for more information visit www. dreamland.co.uk

Chinese Chao Guan Hat, Royal Engineers Museum, Gillingham, ME4 4UG 10.30am-1pm and 1.30pm-3.30pm. Drop in and create your own Chinese Official’s formal winter

Chao Guan, covered with red tassels, feathers and topped with gem stones. Ages 3+ Charges apply. For more information visit www.re-museum. co.uk

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Sat 17 Feb

Sun 18 Feb

10am. Why not be brave and take part in an ice cold dip into the frosty waters of the outdoor swimming pool whilst raising money for Ellenor. For more information and to register visit www.ellenor.org/events

2pm. Go along to measure a rain drop, create a rainbow, make a cloud in a bottle and more. Suggested donation of £2 appreciated. For more information call 01304 225 649.

Chilli Dip, St Julian’s Club, Sevenoaks, TN15 0RX

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

Fun Weather Experiments, Samphire Hoe Education Shelter, CT17 9FL

Mon 19 Feb – Sun 25 Mar

Snow Drop Walk, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG (Wed–Sun only). A heavenly carpet of snowdrops will provide a magical trail for visitors to follow. Around seventy thousand snowdrop bulbs have been planted in the gardens over the past few years. Admission charges apply. For more information visit www. hevercastle.co.uk

Fri 23 Feb

Astronomy Evening, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR 7-9pm. Join the Edenbridge and District Astronomers for an evening looking at the night sky.You can look through powerful telescopes to see the Moon and seek out dark sky objects. The team will talk you through the observations. Ages 5+. For more information and to book visit www.boreplace.org

Sat 24 Feb

Fur, Feather & Exotic Exhibition, Boughton-underBlean Village Hall, Faversham, ME13 9AH 10am-4pm. Support the Lord Whisky Sanctuary Fund and meet lots of different animals and birds and learn how to care for them. For information call 01303 862 622 or visit www.lordwhisky.co.uk

March Thurs 1 Mar

World Book Day, Nationwide Join in this celebration of authors, illustrators, books and (most importantly) a celebration of reading. For more information visit www. worldbookday.com

For lots more What’s On ideas see page 22...

World Book Day 2018: Save the Date The world’s biggest celebration of reading for pleasure, World Book Day, returns on Thursday 1 March. On a mission to encourage children and young people to read and love books, World Book Day will once again play host to a stellar line-up of authors, illustrators and events across the country for its 21st annual celebration. This year’s theme ‘Share a Story’ intends to mobilise the nation to ‘Take 10’ and recognise the positive impact that reading together for only 10 minutes a day can have on a child’s learning. Parents, teachers and children are encouraged to go beyond dressing up on World Book Day to reignite a love of shared reading and the sense of wellbeing that it brings. As always, there will be exciting new books from bestselling children’s authors and illustrators for children to explore, including 11 titles released for just £1. Children can purchase these using their World Book Day tokens and set off on their 2018 reading adventure. With titles suited to a range of different ages and abilities, from classics like Mr Men and Paddington Books to new releases from Clare Balding and Tom Fletcher for more advanced readers, there is something for everyone. Alongside activity on World Book Day itself, the charity will also be running a national tour of author/illustrator events around the country in ‘The Biggest Book Show on Earth’, from 26 February to 3 March, and bringing back the incredibly successful World Book Day Award (WoBoD) for the fourth time. The WoBoD competition involved over 76,000 children, their families and communities in 2017 and £25,000 of Walker books were won. World Book Day marks the world’s biggest celebration of reading, where the nation’s entire book industry comes together to work proactively to address falling literacy levels and create the readers of the future. Last year, over £650,000 was raised for charity by World Book Day and over 1.2 million £1 book tokens were redeemed, enabling 1 in 4 children (1 in 3 for those receiving free school meals) to ‘purchase’ their first ever book. Book tokens will be sent out to schools across the UK and Ireland in late February and can be used to claim a free World Book Day title in participating bookshops and supermarkets until 25 March.Visit www.worldbookday. com to see the full list of books and events.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

Film Preview Guide Disney Pixar’s Coco

Coco is about a 12-year-old boy with big dreams. Miguel is an aspiring singer and self-taught guitarist who dreams of following in the footsteps of his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz, the most famous musician in the history of Mexico. However, Miguel’s family forbids music.When Miguel unearths a secret from his family’s past—a connection to Ernesto de la Cruz, he rushes to share the news with his family, thinking it will clear the way for him to be a musician.To his surprise, it only makes matters worse. As events unfold on Mexico’s ‘Day of the Dead’, Miguel is forced to team up with a scrappy, streetwise skeleton named Héctor and they set out to ﬁnd Ernesto de la Cruz, who they believe holds the key to Miguel’s bafﬂing and decidedly unmusical family history. Disney Pixar’s Coco is in cinemas now. Photo credit: 2017 Disney.Pixar

Early Man

Early Man is the new prehistoric comedy adventure from director Nick Park and Aardman, the creators of Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep. Shot in Aardman’s own distinctive style, the ﬁlm will take audiences on an extraordinary journey into an exciting new world unleashing an unforgettable tribe of unique and funny new characters. Set at the dawn of time, when prehistoric creatures roamed the Earth, Early Man tells the story of courageous caveman hero Dug, voiced by Eddie Redmayne, and his best friend Hognob as they unite his tribe against a mighty enemy, Lord Nooth and his Bronze Age City, to save their home. Leading Dug’s tribe of lovable misﬁts is Chief Bobnar who is joined by Treebor, Magma, Asbo, Barry, Gravelle, Eemak and Grubup. Maisie Williams voices Goona, the gallant rebel who befriends Dug and helps the tribe in their battle to beat the Bronze Age. Also joining the stellar cast is Rob Brydon, who voices the Message Bird - an ingenious Bronze Age communication device. Catch Early Man in cinemas now.

Tad the Lost Explorer and the Secret of King Midas

After Sara Lavroff discovers one of the three gold rings from King Midas’ necklace, proving that this ruler who turned everything he touched into gold really did exist,Tadeo, the most awkward explorer, travels to Las Vegas to join his friend at the exhibition where this incredible archaeological discovery will be revealed for the ﬁrst time ever.Tadeo and Sara’s happy reunion turns sour when villain, Jack Rackham, and his crew of bandits steal the jewel and kidnap the young archaeologist, knowing full well that whoever puts the three rings from King Midas’ necklace back together again will inherit his power and immense wealth. Tadeo will have to be clever in order to save Sara and destroy Rackham’s wicked plans. His travels will take him halfway around the world, through Spain, Greece and Turkey, alongside his friends the Mummy, Belzoni the parrot, his dog Jeff and the latest cast of characters to join the adventure. Tad the Lost Explorer will be in cinemas from 9 February.

Monster Family

Based on David Safier’s best-selling novel, Monster Family follows the very unhappy Wishbone clan.With a struggling bookshop, an overworked husband and two misunderstood teenagers, Emma is at her wit’s end trying to be the perfect mom to a family who are constantly at each other’s throats. In an attempt to reconnect the family, Emma drags the clan to a costume party, but the plan backfires when they are cursed by an evil witch and transformed into their own monstrous costumes.The Wishbone family must pull together to battle real-life beasts, reverse the curse and prove that even a vampire, a mummy, a werewolf and Frankenstein’s monster can eventually form one big happy family. When the Wishbones snap, only love can stitch them back together. Emma has to fight to keep her Monster Family together and uncover the secret of their curse, eventually leading them to the Prince of Darkness himself, Dracula. Featuring the voices of Catherine Tate and Nick Frost, watch a monster family become human again.This family blockbuster comes to cinemas on 2 March.

The Highway Rat

From the creators of The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and Stick Man,The Highway Rat will be available on DVD from 5 February. The beautifully animated ﬁlm seen on BBC One this Christmas is a swashbuckling adventure of bandits and biscuits based on the richly imaginative book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Schefﬂer.The Highway Rat tells the tale of a ravenous rat who craves buns, biscuits and all things sweet.Tearing along the highway, he searches for sugary treats to steal until his sweet tooth leads him to a sticky end. The sweetly satisfying animation features the voice talents of an all-star, home grown cast including David Tennant, Rob Brydon, Frances De La Tour and Tom Hollander.An instant classic the whole family can enjoy,The Highway Rat will be available from Amazon and other online stores.

Win Jungle Bunch Goodies & DVD Join in the jungle adventure with Maurice and his friends by winning a whole host of fun merchandise including Jungle Bunch badges, t-shirts, a safari hat and binoculars. One lucky winner will win all this as well as The Jungle Bunch on DVD, and four runners up can also win the DVD. Maurice may look like an emperor penguin but he’s a real tiger inside. Raised by a tigress, he’s the clumsiest Kung-Fu master ever. Along with his friends, the Jungle Bunch, he intends to maintain order and justice in the jungle, just as his mother did before him. But, Igor, an evil koala, wants to destroy the jungle once and for all with help from his army of silly baboons. The Jungle Bunch is out on Digital and DVD now!

To be in with the chance of winning, tell us what kind of animal the evil Igor is? Send your answer to us along with your name, age, address, school and phone number to

The Jungle Bunch Competition, Primary Times, 7 Southbrook Mews, London SE12 8LG or email your answer together with your details to competitions@primarytimes.biz with ‘The Jungle Bunch’ as the subject by Friday 2 March.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

What’s On

More What’s On Your family diary for February and March

March

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

Fri 2 Mar

World Book Day Crafts and Dress Up, Community Hub Strood, ME2 4TJ 3-5pm. A pop-in craft session celebrating World Book Day for 3-8 yrs. Go along wearing a book character costume. For further details visit www.enjoymedway.org/ events

Sun 4 Mar

Sat 10 Mar

Children’s Crafts, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge, TN11 8DG 12noon–4pm. Step inside The Old Coach House and create a beautiful card to tell mum just how much you love her. For more information visit www.penshurstplace.com

Sat 10 – Sun 11 Mar

Treat Mum to a fabulous day out on the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway. Make the day even more special with the opportunity for Mum to Drive The Train! For more information visit www.rhdr.org.uk

Mothers’ Day, Godington House & Gardens, Ashford, TN23 3BP Enjoy a stroll around the garden, take in the amazing display of daffodils and fritillaries and then enjoy afternoon tea in the tearoom. Please note the house will not be open for guided tours. For more information visit www.godintonhouse.co.uk

Dartford Half Marathon, DA1 1JP 9.30am–12.30pm. Join #TeamDemelza and take on the Dartford Half Marathon to help raise vital funds. For more information and to register visit www.demelza.org.uk

Mothers’ Day Craft, Emmetts Garden, Sevenoaks, TN14 6BA 10am–4pm. Make your own token as a treat for mum. Materials provided for this self-led craft For more information visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/emmetts-garden

Mothers’ Day Weekend, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG

Mothers’ Day Cream Tea and garden tour, Chartwell, Westerham, TN16 1PS

Spoil mum on Mother’s Day weekend with a memorable family day out and meal. Craft workshop for young visitors to make that special gift to take home and a celebration menu in the restaurant. For more information and to book visit www.hevercastle. co.uk

2-4pm. Give your mum a special treat by taking her to Churchill’s family home for a tour of the garden followed by a cream tea and a glass of Prosecco. For details of event and charges visit www.nationaltrust.org. uk/chartwell

Sun 11 Mar

Mothering Sunday Lunch, Canterbury Cathedral CT1 2EH 12.30-3pm. Every Mum deserves this Sunday off to relax! With Chef’s delicious 3-course lunch and the opportunity to take a stroll in the Cathedral grounds, Mum will be truly spoilt at The Cathedral Lodge this year! For more information and to book visit www.canterburycathedral.org

The Snake Dance, Samphire Hoe Shelter, Folkestone, CT17 9FL

Mothers’ Day Family Fun, Groombridge Place, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9QG 10-4pm. Go along to Groombridge Place on Mothers’ Day for a fantastic day out including face painting, crafts, bouncy castles, live music and much more. There will also be a free gift for all the Mums. For more details visit www.groombridgeplace.com

Make Mum’s Day, Ightham Mote, Kent, TN15 0NT 11.30am-3.30pm. Make mum feel special with a visit to Ightham Mote where children can pop into

11am.You will be making adder sculptures and creating a snake dance to celebrate spring. Suggested donation of £5 per person towards materials would be appreciated. For more information and to book call 01304 225 649.

29 Jan - 18 Mar ‘18

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

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

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the Squire’s Room to make mum a present. Mums can also enjoy a luxury hand massage in the shop and lunch or a cream tea in the café. Charges apply. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ighthammote

Tue 13 Mar

Shakespeare Teatime story and craft, Strood Library, Community Hub Strood, ME2 4TJ 4-5pm. A Shakespeare themed story time and craft activity for 4-10 yrs. For more information about this free event visit www.enjoymedway.org/ events

Sat 17 – Fri 23 Mar

Sport Relief, Nationwide Whether you run, walk or even dance, whatever moves you, do it for Sport Relief and help change lives. To get a head start, pre-order your free Fundraising Pack. For more information visit www.sportrelief. com

Sun 18 Mar

Heart of Kent Hospice Road Run, Maidstone Road Run, Hubbards Lane, ME17 4HX From 9am. Take part in a 5k or 10k fun run for families and children through beautiful country roads around Linton, Boughton Monchelsea and surrounding villages. Why not get sponsored to run in fancy dress for the hospice? For entry details visit www.hokh.org

Birchington Silver Band Concert March, Birchington Village Centre, CT7 9EG Enjoy an afternoon concert by Birchington Silver Band including marches, light classics, music from the shows and popular melodies. For more information visit www.visitkent. co.uk

Duathlon, HolePark, Rolvenden, TN17 4JB 9am. With two different events to choose from Hole Park Duathlons will be held within the picturesque award-winning gardens and grounds. Go along and watch this great event. For more information visit www. trispiritevents.com

Wed 21 Mar

World Poetry Day A time to appreciate and support poets and poetry around the world. Celebrate Wold Poetry Day today. For more information visit www. un.org/en/events/poetryday

Wed 21 – Sun 25 Mar

Dazzling Daffodils, Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Go along and you’ll feel uplifted this spring during Hever Castle’s new Dazzling Daffodils event. With 14,000 daffodil bulbs set to bloom across the gardens, there will be a wide range of varieties to enjoy. For more information visit www.hevercastle. co.uk

Fri 23 Mar

Sat 24 – Sun 25 Mar

Kent Big Weekend, Various Locations Residents of Kent are given the chance to enjoy an amazing day out in their county for free. The ballot will open from mid-February for 4 weeks.You can apply for as many tickets as you like, and the winners will be selected at random. For more information visit www. kentbigweekend.co.uk

Sun 25 Mar

Dawn Chorus Bird Walk, Bore Place, Chiddingstone, TN8 7AR 6–8am. Join Tom Forward, the Education Coordinator and bird expert for an early morning birdsong-filled wander through the beautiful fields and woodlands. For more information and to book visit www.boreplace.org

Resolution Run, Mote Park, Maidstone, ME15 7SU 10am. Join in and run either 5k, 10k or 15k and help raise vital funds for the Stroke Association. To enter online and for more information visit www.stroke.org.uk/resolution

All to Discover, Discovery Event Centre, Sandwich, CT13 9FF 10am-4pm. At this Spring Fair there will be stalls of food and quality, handcrafted arts and crafts. Plus live music, food stalls, body and nail art, balloon modelling, face painting and more. Entry charge applies. For more information visit www.caranoevents. co.uk

Our next copy deadline is

2 March 2018.

If you have something you would like us to try and publicise (space permitting) please email it to

listings@ primarytimes.biz

All About YOU! Zuzia Florek aged 9

Jane Doherty aged 6 Coakley, Amber Youssef competitions in our Winter/Christmas issue. Oliver Congratulations to the following people who won Bonnie Allen won Tangled and ngton on won Ferdinand goodies. Imogen Warri Mnari, Josephine Roberts, Leo Everard and Ella Clerks etition winners were comp go Ninja s.Lego mural ale won Cars photo photomurals and Stanley Jones and Benjamin Bleasd ns. Guinness World Records Goody Bags Matthew Clarke, Oliver Coakley and Harry Macki If you would like to see , Charlie Doherty, Luna Woodbridge, White ie were won by Hibah Swaleh Ahmed, Frank easer, Stanley ey-Cr Freakl your work displayed Chloe uire, Macq nn igh-A Kayle za, Jessica Salter, Kathleen D'Sou Drawing Competition for the Annie the here then just send us a won 6 aged ty Doher Jane v. Uzuno e Owen and Georg our older group. Well done to all our prize for it won drawing, poem, riddles, 9 aged Florek Zuzia and group er young jokes or short story and page. this on rk artwo the enjoy and rs winne

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 Jaime Vince for the lovely trees drawing, Jocelyn Liu for her clever French drawing, Esther Chana for her fun rocket and Michael for his cute caterpillar. We love seeing your work so do please keep sending it to us.

ARE YOU READY TO

A MILE?

Get ready to bring your school together and raise money for some fantastic causes. Whether you run the Sport Relief Mile, do a mile a day a different way or daily challenges, there are more ways than ever to get your school involved. Order your free fundraising pack at sportrelief.com/schools

Sport Relief is an initiative of Comic Relief, registered charity 326568 (England and Wales); SC039730 (Scotland). Photo credits: Nicole Gomes.